Binder1

FIRS rakes in N1.8trn in 6 months …accuses the rich of tax evasion P6P.6

President sacks DSS boss, Ekpenyong as Daura takes over P.2

Ekpenyong

Vol. 5 N0. 1148

Friday, July 3, 2015

Lagos boat tragedy: Bodies of six drowned children recovered P.10

Ambode

National Mirror Online

N150

@NationalMirror

174 Reps insist Dogara must obey party’s directive

...meet Buhari to compel Speaker

O

ne hundred and seven four (174) members of the All Progressives Congress, APC, in the House of Representa-

OBIORA IFOH AND ROTIMI FADEYI

Confusion brews in PDP over Akpabio’s Minority Leader dream

CONTINUED ON PAGE 2>>

Cholera kills 11 in Plateau, 48 hospitalised Boko Haram kills 148, injures 79 in Borno villages

P.6,50 6 50

21, OLOWU STREET, IKEJA, LAGOS www.medviewairline.com 01-4540927/8

Mother with children allegedly abandoned by her husband after his wife gave birth to another set of twins in Lagos, yesterday.

FLIGHT SCHEDULE WITH EFFECT FROM JUNE 29, 2015

Economy generates 469,070 jobs in Q1, 2015 –NBS P.4

MONDAYS TO FRIDAYS DESTINATION ABUJA TO LAGOS

FLT NO

DEP

ARR

LAGOS TO ENUGU

VL2116

0730

0840

0

B737

STOPS

A/C

LAGOS TO PHC

VL2110

1130

1240

0

B737

LAGOS TO YOLA

VL2102

0850

1200

1

B737

VL2116

1230

1340

0

B737

ENUGU TO LAGOS

VL2117

1420

1530

0

B737

LAGOS TO PHC

VL2110

1130

1240

0

B737

LAGOS TO ABUJA

VL2108

1030

1145

0

B737

LAGOS TO YOLA

VL2102

0850

1200

1

B737

VL2102

1200

1315

0

B737

VL2118

1430

1545

0

B737

VL2106

1630

1745

0

B737

VL0203

0715

0715

0

B737

VL2101

0900

1015

0

B737

1400

1515

0

B737

PHC TO LAGOS

VL2111

1320

1430

0

B737

VL2103

1500

1615

0

B737

YOLA TO ABUJA

VL2103

1300

1410

0

B737

PHC TO LAGOS

VL2111

1320

1430

0

B737

VL2119

1630

1745

0

B737

YOLA TO LAGOS

VL2103

1300

1615

1

B737

YOLA TO ABUJA

VL2103

1300

1410

0

B737

VL2107

1830

1945

0

B737

YOLA TO LAGOS

VL2103

1300

1615

1

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ABUJA TO YOLA

VL2102

1050

1200

0

B737

ACCRA TO LAGOS

VL0204

0800

1000

0

B737

VL0206

1740

1940

0

B737

ENUGU TO LAGOS

VL2117

0930

1040

0

B737

LAGOS TO ABUJA

VL2100

0700

0815

0

B737

VL2102

LAGOS TO ACCRA

LAGOS TO ENUGU

VL2105

0850

1005

0

B737

SATURDAYS DESTINATION

FLT NO

DEP

ARR

STOPS

A/C

ABUJA TO LAGOS

VL2101

1000

1115

0

B737

VL2105

1400

1515

0

B737

VL2103

1500

1615

0

B737

ABUJA TO YOLA

VL2102

1050

1200

0

B737

ABUJA TO LAGOS

ACCRA TO LAGOS

VL0204

0800

1000

0

B737

1200

1315

0

B737

ENUGU TO LAGOS

VL2117

1420

1530

0

B737

VL2118

1430

1545

0

B737

LAGOS TO ABUJA

VL2100

0800

0915

0

B737

VL2106

1630

1745

0

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0850

1005

0

B737

VL0203

0715

0715

0

B737

VL2104

1200

1315

0

B737

VL0205

1700

1700

0

B737

VL0203

0715

0715

0

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LAGOS TO ACCRA

LAGOS TO ACCRA

SUNDAYS DESTINATION

VL2104

PHOTO: NAN

ABUJA TO YOLA ACCRA TO LAGOS

VL0205

1700

1700

0

B737

FLT NO

DEP

ARR

STOPS

A/C

LAGOS TO ENUGU

VL2116

1230

1340

0

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VL2109

1230

1345

0

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LAGOS TO PHC

VL2110

1130

1240

0

B737

VL2119

1630

1745

0

B737

LAGOS TO YOLA

VL2102

1200

1505

1

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VL2103

1730

1845

0

B737

PHC TO LAGOS

VL2111

1320

1430

0

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VL2107

1830

1945

0

B737

YOLA TO ABUJA

1355

1505

0

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1545

1655

0

B737

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VL2103

1545

1845

1

B737

VL0204

0800

1000

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VL0206

1740

1940

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B737

Updated June 12, 2015

News

2

Friday, July 3, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

174 Reps insist Dogara must obey party’s directive CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

tives have asked President Muhammadu Buhari to prevail on Speaker, Yakubu Dogara to announce the principal officers of the House according to the directive of the party.

This was part of the demands made by the members, represented by Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila and 29 others, who met with Buhari at the Presidential Villa on Wednesday night.

Those favoured by APC to be appointed as principal officers in the House include Hon. Gbajabiamila, South-West (House Leader); Hon. Alhassan Ado Doguwa, North-West (Deputy House Leader); Hon. M. T. Monguno, NorthEast (Chief Whip) and Hon. Pally Iriase, South-South (Deputy Chief Whip).

The 174 lawmakers asked the President to prevail on 39 members of the party, including the Speaker, his Deputy, Lasun Yusuf to respect, honour and obey the party leaders and their

directives.

They also want the President to save the integrity of the party and direct Dogara to return to their fold and be truly elected as Speaker.

According to them, the conduct of the 39 APC members, who they accused of colluding with the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, was tantamount to affront, which is ultimately targeted at polarising the party and giving room for many of them to defect.

They argued that despite the position of the party on the National Assembly leadership, supported by the President and governors elected on its platform, the 39 members continue to collude with the opposition.

They said the argument for the federal character principle being canvassed by the 39 members does not apply when electing principal officers of both the Senate and the House of Representatives According to them, the principle of federal charac-

ter as embedded in the 1999 Constitution (as amended) was not justiciable and is of no legal consequence when it comes to electing principal officers of the National Assembly.

They noted that the principle of federal character is only applicable to appointments in federal ministries and agencies, saying the House of Representatives was not an agency of the Federal Government and principal officers are elective and not by appointment.

The lawmakers said during the 6th and 7th Assembly, the issue of federal character did not arise and therefore wondered why their opponents should now put forward such position.

Gbajabiamila, who briefed State House Correspondents after the meeting said his group had a successful discussion with the President.

He explained that the President, as a party man, believed in party suprem-

acy as well as its ideology, stressing that they all know what the President stands for.

Gbajabiamila said Dogara may have been absent at the meeting because of other engagements, saying not everybody was able to attend as there are about 219 members of the caucus.

“The Speaker probably has other engagements, there are still a few members of the caucus that were not here, we cannot get everybody here, but you find at least 25 per cent which is a fair representation of the caucus. If you are talking about a caucus, you are talking of about 210 members, you can’t get 210 members here, it is a representation of the 210 members,” he said.

In a related development, major crisis is brewing in the camp of the opposition PDP, over its plans to compensate former Akwa Ibom State governor, Godswill Akpabio for his contributions to the party by posi-

tioning him as the Senate Minority Leader.

PDP had on Wednesday sealed the ambition of other aspirants when it ceded the office to the South South. Before now, Senator James Manager appeared to be the natural choice.

But Akpabio’s ambition, which is at variance with the Senate Rules on ranking, is almost having the blessing of majority of senators from the South-South zone.

Consequently, the chances of Senator Manager, who had hitherto been touted as the Senate Minority Leader are looking dim as financial muscle appears to have laid a path ahead of the final decision that will be announced when the senate resumes plenary on July 21.

A senator from the South-South zone confided in a team of newsmen that the brewing crisis was ‘capable of weakening the PDP ahead of its role as a viable opposition party in the years ahead’.

Ambassador-designate of Ukraine to Nigeria, Dr. Valeril Aleksandruk, inspecting guard of honour mounted by Nigerian Army, during presentation of letter of credence to President Muhammadu Buhari at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, yesterday.

PHOTO: NAN

“We are seeing the APC crisis now, ours is also in the making because before July 21, if we too don’t sort ourselves out, we can at best say that what is capable of weakening the PDP ahead of its role as a viable opposition party in the years ahead may have been planted.

“We all thought the issue of Senate Minority Leader has been laid to rest until the DSP (Deputy Senate President) called us for a meeting in his house where he sought peoples opinion on the propriety or otherwise of selecting Senator John Owan Eno for the position.

“I think it was from there the former Akwa-Ibom governor got the feeling that if the matter has to be revisited, then he would take a shot at it, but he doesn’t know that his ambition is against the rules of the senate as regards the selection of its Principal Officers.

“Before then, we were all facing the challenge of the suggestion by the former president and his wife that we should consider Senator Sekibo who is from Rivers State, but the duo of Ekweremadu and Nyesom Wike (Rivers governor) kicked against it.

“From all indications, if we don’t step in on time, our earlier decision backing James Manager may fail because you know what money can do in politics; we can’t say money won’t work in this circumstance.

“Although Akpabio has argued that both Manager and the House Minority Leader-designate, Hon Leo Ogor, being from Delta State, cannot hold the two positions simultaneously, we have also told him that since the PDP is in unusual circumstances, we can allow that to fly,” the source said.

It would be recalled that the PDP on Tuesday, zoned minority positions in both

President sacks DSS boss, Ekpenyong as Daura takes over OMEIZA AJAYI ABUJA

P

resident Muhamadu Buhari yesterday sacked the Director General, Department of State Services, DSS, Mr. Ita Ekpenyong.

Hours after his secret

sack, the president appointed Lawal Musa Daura as the new director general.

The appointment was conveyed in a letter by the Head of Civil Service of the Federation, Mr. Danladi Kifasi. According to the letter, the appointment is with immediate effect.

The new spy police chief was born in Daura, Buhari’s hometown in Katsina State on the August 5, 1953.

He attended Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria from 1977- 1980.

He started his carrier in the State Security Ser-

vice, SSS, in 1982 and rose to the rank of a director.

Daura was at a time the Deputy Director, Presidential Communications, Command and Control Centre at the Presidential Villa Abuja between 2003 and 2007.

He also served as the Director of Security Ser-

vice at various times in Kano, Sokoto, Edo, Lagos, Osun and Imo states.

He attended various professional courses both home and abroad, including the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies, NIPSS, Kuru in Plateau State.

Ekpenyong had been sidelined by the new administration on issues bothering on security.

The situation got to a head when personnel of the service, who were on close protection duties at the State House were recently expelled.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

3

Friday, July 3, 2015

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Photo News

4

Friday, July 3, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

L-R: Vice Chairperson, Lagos State Chapter of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relation (NIPR) Mrs. Comfort Nwokwo; Chairman, Mr. Joseph Okonmah; Chairman, 26th AGM/Public Relation Week organizing Committee, Mr. Olusegun Mcmedal, and Acting Registrar , Pastor Joseph Adeniran, during the Media briefing of the Institute’s week in Lagos, yesterday. PHOTO: ADEMOLA AKINLABI L-R: Chief Executive Officer & Managing Director, Airtel Nigeria, Segun Ogunsanya (left) and UNICEFs’ Representative in Nigeria Ms. Jean Gough, during the U-Report MOU signing ceremony between Airtel and UNICEF in Lagos, yesterday.

L-R: Vice-Chancellor, Hallmark University, Prof. Segun Odunola; board member, Chief Olubukola Ajomo; Pro-Chancellor and Chairman, governing council, Prof. Wale Omole; proprietress and Hallmark University promoter, Chief (Mrs.) Leila Fowler and Chairman of council, Hallmark University, Most Rev. Prof. Adebayo Akinde, during the press briefing to formerly unveil the institution, in Lagos, yesterday.

L-R: Managing Director/CEO, Sam Pharma Ltd, Mr. Ashwin Dayalani; former Managing Director, Neimeth Pharma Plc, Mr. Sam Ohuabunwa; Chairman, Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Group (PMG), Manufacturing Association of Nigeria (MAN), Mr. Okey Akpa and Vice President, PMGMAN/ Managing Director, Neimeth Pharma Plc, Mr. Emmanuel Ekunno, during the PMG-MAN press conference in Lagos, yesterday. PHOTO: SAMUEL ADETI MEHIN

National News

Economy generates 469,070 jobs in Q1, 2015 – NBS Tola akinmuTimi

N

ational Bureau of Statistics, NBS, yesterday said 469, 070 jobs were created in the first quarter of this year.

The figures represent an increase of 99,585 jobs or 26.95 per cent over the number created in the preceding quarter and 94.7 per cent more than what was recorded in the corresponding quarter of last year.

The Bureau stated that while the formal sector generated 130,941 or 27.92 per cent, the informal sector accounted for 332,403, compared to the 227,072 new jobs in the 4th quarter of 2014, signifying a 46.39 per cent increase between the two periods.

Under informal, comprising jobs generated by individuals or businesses employing less than 10 or those businesses operating with little or no structures, such as those in agriculture and wholesale and retail trade, NBS

stated that the 332,403 new jobs were expected in view of the numerous informal economic activities that came up during the election period.

Making further clarification on the formal sector, the NBS disclosed that the 130,941 new jobs showed a decline of 7,085

or 5.13per cent when compared to the fourth quarter of 2014 but a 72.3 per cent increase when compared to the same period in 2014.

It also reported 1,339 or 30.5 per cent increase in the jobs created in the public sector.

This makes it 5,726 new

jobs generated in the public sector, which also represent 1.2 per cent of the total jobs generated during the reference period.

The Bureau also stated that increase in formal jobs came from the cadre of Managerial, Professional and Technical Workers which rose from 32,974 em-

ployees in the fourth quarter of last year to 47,921 in Q1 this year, indicating a growth of 14,947 or 45.32 per cent.

The agency indicated that the growth made the Managerial, Professional and Technical workers cadre the dominant with the largest number of jobs

created; representing 36.60 per cent of the total. This was followed by operative cadre with 43,616 new jobs or 33.31 per cent while the Clerical and Related Office Workers cadre was third; accounting for 19,895 employees or 15.19 per cent of the total public sector jobs.

DPR attributes queue in Abuja to drop in supply

D

epartment of Petroleum Resources, DPR, has attributed the persistent of fuel queue in Abuja and environs to a sharp drop in the lifting of the product by marketers from Suleja Depot.

A senior officer from DPR, who did not want his name mentioned, said yesterday that daily supply to Abuja started dropping since the beginning of the week.

The source said average daily supply to Abuja was between seven million and eight million litres before “but has now dropped to between one

and 2 .1 million litres on Monday and Tuesday respectively.”

The source however said fuel supply had increased to above six million litres as at Wednesday.

The official said shortage of supply in the neighbouring towns and states also contributed to the queues in various filling stations in Abuja.

According to the source, the case also worsens because of the regulated price being enforced in the FCT by the DPR. The official said because of the surveillance

and monitoring by DPR in Abuja, filling stations could not engage in any sharp practices or sell above pump price to the customers.

The official said some of the marketers that bring fuel to Suleja Depot “most often divert to where they can sell at higher price” resulting in the emergence of queues in Abuja.

The source however expressed optimism that the situation would improve.

The official warned marketers against hoarding or selling

above pump price, stressing that whosoever was caught in the act of defrauding or cheating motorists would face the full wrath of the law.

The source said DPR would take decisive action against such marketers or filling station owners.

Fuel queues have remained in Abuja in spite of the supply of 188 trucks of fuel on Wednesday.

It was also observed that the queue subsided a little on Wednesday evening but increased yesterday in most filling

stations with fuel.

At the NNPC Mega Filling Station on Olusegun Obasanjo Way, Central Area, long queues of vehicles blocked the flow of traffic on the road.

The Conoil and Total filling stations opposite NNPC headquarters had long queues that encircled the Bureau of Statistics Complex.

The situation was also the same at Total, Conoil, and Mobil stations at Wuse, Garki, and some independent filling stations along Berger, Jabi Road as well as the Airport Road.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Friday, July 3, 2015

5

6

News

Friday, July 3, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

FIRS rakes in N1.8trn in six months GEORGE OJI ABUJA

F

ederal Inland Revenue Service, FIRS, has accused the elites of evading tax.

In particular, the tax collection agency singled out private jet owners, which number he put at

130, and owners of luxurious mansions of not wanting to part with their wealth, even to pay for their luxurious life styles.

This was as FIRS also disclosed that it raked in N1.8trn as tax revenues to the national coffers between January and June this year.

The Acting Executive Chairman of FIRS, Mr Samuel Ogungbesan, made the disclosure yesterday in Abuja when he visited the leadership of the Senate to update the lawmakers on the workings of his agency as well as the need to shore up non oil revenues follow-

ing the glut in the oil market.

A breakdown of the N1.8trn tax revenues, according to FIRS boss are N697bn from Petroleum Profit Tax, N778bn from Company Income Tax and N390bn from Value Added Tax, VAT. Ogungbesan said: “As

L-R:Chairman of the occasion, Dr. Olatunde Ayeni; National President/Chairman, the Bible Society of Nigeria, BSN, Dr. Aaron Nuhu; General Secretary of BSN, Mr. Dare Ajiboye and former Nigeria High Commissioner to the UK, Dr. Christopher Kolade, during the 11th annual luncheon of the society’s Special Members Forum in Lagos, yesterday.

Boko Haram kills 148, injures 79 in Borno villages INUSA NDAHI MAIDUGURI

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unmen suspected to be members of the Boko Haram sect have killed 148 people and injured 79 others in Borno State.

The terrorists reportedly stormed the villages of Kukawa and Monguno to perpetrate the heinous crime.

It was learnt that about 100 people were killed, while 68 others injured in an attack, which targeted some mosques and other public gathering spots on Wednesday in Kukawa.

Also in Monguno, death toll from an attack also on

Wednesday has risen to 46 as many of the injured succumbed to severe gunshot wounds they sustained.

A survivor, Mala Bukar told our correspondent on phone from Kukawa that the insurgents invaded the town around 6p.m, a time Muslim Ummah were preparing for Magrib congregational prayers to break their fast.

Bukar said the terrorists surrounded the town and were shooting sporadically at residents, who ran helter skelter to avoid the hale of bullet.

Bukar said some ran into the bush, while others ran into their houses and locked themselves inside.

He said that as at yesterday corpses of the victims were yet to be buried, while many residents have deserted the town to neighbouring villages.

According to him, the fears that the attackers may return to unleash more havoc on the hapless residents was delaying the burial of the victims.

Similarly, about 47 people have reportedly died from the Monguno attack.

Monguno is about 145 kilometers from Maiduguri, the state capital and 25 kilometers from Kukawa town.

About 23 people were reported to have sustained injuries during the attack,

while houses and shops were touched.

House of Representatives member representing Monguno, Nganzai and Marte Federal Constituency at the National Assembly, Mr. Mohammed Tahir Monguno confirmed the attacks and described it as deadly.

Deputy Director of Army Public Relations, Colonel Usman Sani Kukasheka did not pick his calls to confirm the attack.

The state Police Commissioner, Mr. Aderemi Opadokun also did not reply to a text message sent to his phone for confirmation of the attack

IGP deploys new commissioners of police in Lagos, Rivers, Ogun OMEIZA AJAYI ABUJA

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nspector-General of Police, IGP, Solomon Arase has deployed new Commissioners of Police in Lagos, Rivers and Ogun states.

According to him, the move is to inject fresh ideas in the security architecture of the

states, and some other Force Headquarters Formations.

A statement signed by the Deputy Force Public Relations Officer, Abayomi Shogunle said the postings are with immediate effect.

In the deployment chat, Ajani Fatai Owoseni was posted to Lagos, Chris Ezike, Rivers, and Abdulmajid Ali, Ogun state.

Dan Bature will now take charge of Intelligence at the FCIID, Force Headquarters; Valentine Ntomchukwu is now CP Administration, Department of Logistics and Supplies, Force Headquarters and Hyelasinda Kimo Musa, CP Federal SARS. Others are Kayode Aderanti, CP Administration, Department of Operations,

FHQ; E.J Ibine, CP Port Authority, Eastern Command and Ogbusua Aja Oleh, CP Provost, FHQ. The IGP expressed the hope that the new postings will reverse the crime wave in the affected states, while also strengthening administration in the affected strategic Force Headquarters Formations.

at the end of June, so far the Petroleum Profit Tax, has given us N697bn for the first six months of the year but that could go up a little bit.

“For the non oil components, we have Company Income Tax which has brought in N778bn from between January and June. Value Added Tax N376bn, other dedicated taxes, are the TETFUND, the technology levy and the consolidated account for the FCT, which is mainly personal income taxation.

“The N376bn VAT does not include import valves for the current month because customs will still give us the figure for the month but it is usually between N12bn and N15bn every month, so by the time we add it to this, it will be giving us about N390bn,” The revenue boss said revenue collection in 2015 is below the benchmark compared with the period from 2012.

He said: “Oil is not doing well due to the structure of the economy. There are institutional rigidities that made this to be so. Seventy nine per cent of companies wait till 31st December to file their report.

“We have N702bn for this month now, it would be N715bn at the end of the month when the customs collection is received.”

Ogungbesan said the annual target of petroleum profit tax is N1.4trn based on monthly expectation of N123.74bn to N150bn, regretting that oil and gas, which is key to the economy has not been doing well in recent times.

“The oil and gas, which is key to the economy has not been doing too well.

This is as a result of many factors. Many of these are completely outside our control. The price of oil in the international market has continued on the downward slide.

“Although it started gathering some momentum in the last three months, as at today, it is oscillating between $59 to $62 per barrel.

“What is within our purview is basically what

intervention we can make to shore up the revenues from the non oil sectors generally, part of which were the surcharge mode of taxation suggested by the immediate past government,” he said.

He disclosed that new taxes called surcharge was introduced as part of strategies to finance the 2015 budget.

He listed such taxes to include the one on air tickets for those flying business class on international routes who would pay N15, 000 per head as well as private jet owners.

Ogungbesan disclosed that assessment carried out on the 130 owners of private jets in the country revealed that many of them are not forthcoming when it comes to the issue of appropriate tax payment.

He said FIRS plans to meet with the new government to know the fate of the tax on luxury items.

“We have doubts that the expected revenue from those flying first class may be too small to finance part of the budget.

“If we had said every passenger leaving the shores of the country should pay, it would be a different issue,” he added.

Senate President, Bukola Saraki in his remarks opposed the proposed tax on luxurious items by FIRS as being sensational and not driven by sincerity.

He stated that total dependence on oil could no longer be sustained.

The senate president said the country must look at other areas of taxes, which is more stable and reliable to finance its budget.

He regretted that tax currently accounts for just 6 per cent of GDP whereas in other countries, it is up to 20 per cent.

“The success of our revenue depends on other sources of revenue outside the oil and gas. “We want to get it right so that we can plan ahead and also see if there are laws to be looked into that would probably gives incentives to states where the collection is higher instead of sharing equally. We need to improve on company income tax,” Saraki said.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

JAMB to determine admissions’ cut-off, July 14

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oint Admissions and Matriculation Board, JAMB, says it will hold its 2015 Policy meeting on July 14 to determine cut-off marks for admission of candidates into tertiary institutions.

This is contained in a statement signed by the board’s Public Relations Officer, Mr Fabian Benjamin, and made available to newsmen on Thursday in Lagos.

“The 2015 policy meeting which usually comes up with the determination of the cut-off point has been fixed for 14th July, 2015.

“This meeting defines the criteria for the year’s admissions into higher institutions,’’ it stated.

The statement added that the cut-off points are arrived at after extensive deliberations with vicechancellors of universities, Provosts of colleges of education, Rectors of polytechnics, monotech-

News

Friday, July 3, 2015

nics as well as innovative enterprise institutions and other stakeholders.

It was further stated that the meeting was usually held after the schools would have completed the Computer Based tests, CBT. The statement said the CBT had assisted the board to fight against examination malpractice within the nation’s examination system, adding that the CBT initiative had helped to address the numerous challenges confronting the conduct of public examination in the country.

“Today, the board has found the magic wand.

This year’s examination was one of the most successfully conducted exercises by the board. The exercise took place for over two weeks in 389 centres in Nigeria, Ghana, Republic of Cameroon and the United Kingdom,” he said.

FG decentralises health insurance Marcus FatunMole ABUJA

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ational Health Insurance Scheme, NHIS, has been decentralised.

The measure is to further enhance endorsement of the scheme by all tiers of government in the country, according to a statement made available to National Mirror yesterday by Head, Media and Public Relations of the NHIS, Ayo Osinlu.

The decision, the statement said, would further deepen the penetration of health insurance in the country, and as well take the prospects of universal health coverage forward in the nation.

To hasten the process, the statement added that the scheme had initiated series of advocacy visits to state governors across the country to secure their understanding and cooperation regarding their roles in the “new order.”

The Federal Government has also appealed to the state government to, “as a matter of urgency, initiate the process of enacting an appropriate law that expressly make health insurance compulsory in the state, while also guaranteeing the sustenance of the programme in the state.”

The statement stated that the first port of call in the advocacy was the Government House in Kaduna, “where a high powered team of the scheme met leadership of the state recently.

“Speaking at the occasion, Acting Executive Secretary of the Scheme, Mr Olufemi Akingbade, stated that NHIS was inspired to make Kaduna its first target, in view of the pragmatic nature of the governor of the state, Mallam Nasir el-Rufai, and the legacy of his impressive efforts to promote health insurance for the people of the Federal Capital Ter-

ritory during his tenure as Honourable Minister of the territory.

Akingbade, who was received on behalf of the governor his deputy, Barnabas Bala Bantex, stated that as part of the strategies to scale up coverage of Nigerians within the shortest time frame, the scheme has developed the State Supported Social Health Insurance Programme, SSHIP, targeted at increasing health access for every citizen of Nigeria,” the release added.

He was quoted as saying; that the SSHIP would give the state the necessary autonomy to set up their own health insurance agency that would provide access to health care through pooling of financial resources.

He also explained that the scheme had developed a blueprint that each state could adapt to its peculiarities and a legal framework for the operation of the programme, whereby

Sexual issues and solutions

Amazing facts about penis VI

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normal penis varies in size and shape.

Most penis(s) are curved due to normal anatomy. The bent shape of the penis is not something abnormal; in fact, according to research, it facilitates in delivering semen inside the vagina. The shape only becomes a problem if it interferes in sexual intercourse.

A severe bend in the shape of the penis, where you can feel something hard in the penis, even when it is not erect, is a condition called Peyronie’s Disease. This condition could be hereditary or due to trauma, which could be because of violent sexual intercourse, or some injury.

The hardness that is found in the penis is because of fibrosis. Fibrosis affects the elasticity of the penile tissue and causes the penis to get bent on erection. Subsequently erection and sexual intercourse then becomes painful and the person has to get treatment.

I have serious pain in my waist, back and legs especially anytime I finish having sex; though im a bit diabetic and slightly hypertensive, the pain sometime is so unbearable. What can I do as I enjoy making love to my wife? Abbas Hello Abbas, I wouldn’t know what the cause of the pain is, but I’d like to say you watch out for over-exertion during sex. Try as much as possible not to go for positions that are very strenuous and secondly considering your health, you can take herbal aids like Cleanshield liquid supplement, Gingko tea, Oligosaccharide and probably get a massager like the dolphin massager, foot massager to massage the parts that you feel pain the most.

I did prostate surgery about 3 months ago and since then I can hardly get a strong erection, talk less of keeping it

7

hard and this is so embarrassing. I spoke with my Doctor and he referred me to two of your products that I can combine for a better and stronger erection that is the Plant Vigra with the Cleanshield liquid supplement. How true is this and how effective do you think they’ll be? IK IK, your doctor is very correct in recommending these two products for you in that Cleanshield is an alkaline liquid supplement that removes acidosis (High acidic level in which most bacteria thrive to cause illnesses in the body) which is responsible for the prostate problem initially. You need to keep the level of acidity low in your body so as to prevent the reoccurrence of the prostate problem.

Plant Vigra on the other hand gives strong erection on demand within minutes of taking it. Other herbal aids that give strong erection on demand include; Libigrow, X-again, Rhino 5, Rhino 7, Sexvoltx. Any of these mentioned can be used alongside Cleanshield.

I bought Vimax with Sta-erect cream from your store 3 weeks ago to help me correct early ejaculation and I am noticing that I now last for about 15 minutes before I ejaculate as oppose to 4 minutes which I normally do before I started this treatment. How long do I need to keep using these products and if I stop, will I have early ejaculation again? Yahaya To correct premature ejaculation and even weak erection, you are advised to take Vimax daily for two months and while you are at it, delay creams like Sta-erect, stahard, Stallion delay cream, Delay spray can be used to delay ejaculation during sex, though the creams give a temporary delay effect when combined

with Vimax which does the corrective work, premature ejaculation will become a thing of the past. When you stop after the expiration of the two months, once you watch what you eat, drink and make sure you relieve stress.

Thank you so very much Viewden, I bought Vigrx plus and Penis pump from you and I’m so happy that I’m starting to get my desired size after using for 2months. When can i stop using them? Willis Hello Willis, Like I normally say, to enlarge a penis, one needs to be patient because it is an organ and cannot grow overnight.

I’m happy with the fact that you have been using for over two months and that’s why you are getting good result.

Usually, penis enlargers ought to be used between 2 to 6 months depending on how fast you are getting result. Vigrx plus with Penis pump gives a good result over time. I’d advise you use for 3 months and after that you can stop

every participant would know their role “leading to a seamless operation of the programme.

“The NHIS boss further emphasised that every participating state will have a sizable bulk of its contributions into the programme channeled back into the state healthcare system.

“Responding, the deputy governor of Kaduna State, Bala Bantex applauded the scheme for offering opportunities to Nigerians to be able to access health care without regards to financial, physical or geographical constraints.

“He emphasised the commitment of the El Rufai administration in the state to accord the health and general welfare of the people priority attention, especially the poor and the vulnerable, in accordance with the personality and disposition of the governor in the area of healthcare delivery.”

and the size you have gotten would be permanent.

These are all we can take for this week.

Adults who needs any of these aphrodisiacs can cal 08034666358, 07059294782 or place your order at www.viewden.com. For further enquiries,send an email to us at: vieweden@ yahoo.com, viewden@ymail.com.

Kemi Fawole (MD )

VIEWDEN PRODUCTS (RANGE OF LOVE PRODUCTS)

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National News

NLC warns on implementation of Oronsaye report

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igeria Labour Congress, NLC, has advised the Federal Government to exercise caution in implementing the Steve Orosaye Committee report on the merger of Ministries, Department and Agencies, MDAs. President of NLC, Mr. Ayuba Wabba, gave the advice during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria, NAN, in Abuja on Thursday.

Wabba said the labour movement would resist any attempt to indiscriminately impose job losses in the country.

“The idea to merge MDAs will not serve any purpose because if its intention is for the purposes of relieving people of their jobs, then it will now become unproductive.

“Labour will certainly not support such an idea because of the social and security im-

plications associated with it.

“Any worker you are relieving of job, considering the size of unemployment in the country, will affect not less than 10 people who are dependants of the worker,” he said.

Wabba called on politicians to show considerations to realities in the country, adding that such considerations would help redirect their thinking to the challenges of the system.

“Invariably, when you merge and you want to relieve workers of their jobs, first of all, you will pay their severance, retirement benefits and also put them on pension.

“It is going to compound our social security problems because of the implications associated with it,’’ he said.

Wabba said if the NLC is to be involved in the merger process, it would ensure that the leader of the process of the implementation does a rethink.

Friday, July 3, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

FG urges vigilance as Ebola resurfaces in Liberia Francis suberu and Franka Osakwe

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ederal Government has advised Nigerians to be vigilant and embrace basic hygiene as the Ebola Virus Disease, EVD, reemerges in Liberia.

This was contained in a statement signed by Ayotunde Adesugba, Director of Press and Public Relations, Federal Ministry of Health in Abuja on Tuesday.

The statement urged Nigerians not to panic on the development in Liberia, as the ministry is reactivating its response mechanism and increasing the level of its alert.

“All state Ministries of Health and health facilities are hereby advised to raise their alert level and report any suspected case to the Federal Ministry of Health,’’ it stated.

According to the state-

ment, a new case of the EVD has been reported in Liberia.

“A 17-year-old boy from a village near the Liberian capital died of Ebola. He had no history of travelling out of Liberia and no history of coming into contact with any known Ebola case.

“The boy has since been buried but Liberian health officials are worried that he may have transmitted the virus to many other people who came into contact with him.

“This means that the country, which was certified EVD free by the World Health Organisation, WHO, on May 9, 2015 has witnessed a resurgence of the disease.

“The resurgence of EVD in Liberia confirms that the Ebola Virus is still circulating in that country and transmission from person-toperson is possible,’’ the statement said.

Meanwhile, Lagos State government has again re-

iterated the importance of personal and environmental hygiene as precautionary measures to prevent the reoccurrence of EVD in the state and the country.

Permanent secretary in the state Ministry of Health, Dr. Modele Osunkiyesi, who spoke in her office in Alausa, Ikeja, while outlining the strategies put in place by the state government at preventing the re-entry of the disease in the state, noted that since being certified free of Ebola on October 20, 2014 by the WHO, there has not been any reported case of EVD in the state or the country.

While noting that that the prevention of Ebola remains a shared responsibility by all citizens, Osunkiyesi stated that Lagos State government, in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Health and other stakeholders would maintain relevant surveillance through Port Health

Services and community surveillance activities.

She urged residents to observe the highest possible standard of personal and environmental hygiene through regular washing of hands with soap and running water; avoiding close contact with people who are sick; ensuring that objects used by the sick are decontaminated and properly disposed, and avoid touching or washing dead bodies if not trained to do so.

Osunkiyesi explained that EVD could be spread through close contact with the blood, body fluids, organs and tissues of infected animals; direct contact with the blood, body fluids, and tissues of infected persons; and handling sick or dead infected animals like monkeys and bats.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

South West

Friday, July 3, 2015

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Environmental pollution suit: Standard Charted Bank closes defence MATTHEW IRINOYE

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he Standard Chartered Bank Plc yesterday closed it’s defence in the N10billion suit filed against it by Dr. Tunji Braithwaite before a Lagos High Court, Ikeja.

Braithwaite in the suit is seeking an order declaring as illegal, the erection of a 14-storey commercial building and multi-level car park by the bank in an otherwise residential area in Victoria Island, Lagos.

He claimed that he is uncomfortable with the bank’s installation of giant industrial generators directly opposite his house, saying that the generator would create fumes and noise capable of shattering the air and the serenity of the environment.

During yesterday proceeding, counsel to the bank, Mr A. Adegbonmire, tendered two reports before the court through its last witness, Mr Olugbenga Akinola, a Town Planner by profession.

The reports tendered were; Advocacy Planning Report in respect of defendant property situated at 142, Ahmadu Bello Way, Victoria Island and the Review of Claimant reply to Defendant Statement of Defence, dated July 2013 and August 2014 respectively prepared by Olak Consult and urged the court to admit them in evidence.

The trial judge, Justice Doris Okuwobi admitted the report as Exhibit D15 and D16 respectively.

Led in evidence by Adegbonmire, counsel to the bank, Akinola told the court that he is a lecturer at the University of Lagos, UNILAG, and a registered town planner with over 25 years experience.

Akinola, who claimed to have handled various projects for many clients, said he prepared the report for Standard Chartered Bank in respect of the building approval of the property situated at Ahmadu Bel-

lo Way, V.I. While being cross examined by Braithwaite, he was shown exhibit D1d (Advocacy Planning Report) and was asked to explained permissible noise level, the air space, debris and dust.

Akinola told the court that the report he prepared was a counter to the claimant’s report which he said was not factual.

Akinola disagreed that the setback and airspace fall short of requirement of the building rules as lay down by the Lagos State Government on page 29 of the report.

When asked why he did not put the exact measurement in his report, he said; ‘it was not necessary’.

He however admitted to the court that it is necessary to put net round the building to protect the debris.

However, Braithwaite during cross-examinations disagreed with the submission of the witness which he insisted are not factual.

The legal practitioner informed the court that the claimant will bring an application for physical and actual measurement of the project site to be measured by either the president of the Town Planning Association or Surveyor General in view of the manifest conflict and evidence of both sides because of the core issue.

L-R: Vice Chancellor, University of Ibadan, Prof. Isaac Adewole; lecturer, Prof. Deborah Egunyomi and Nigeria’s Ambassador in United Nations Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), Emeritus Prof. Michael Omolewa, during the University of Ibadan inaugural lecture titled: Balancing Life Equation with Continuing Education, In Ibadan, yesterday.

PHOTO: NAN

Nigerians in Diaspora decry high cost of governance ODINAKA URUAKPA

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group, Concerned Nigerians in the Diaspora, has decried the high cost of maintaining political office holders in the country.

The group was particularly concerned with report that the recently convened 8th National Assembly has decided to toe the unwholesome norm of ‘business as usual’ by accepting huge wardrobe allowance like their predecessors.

Speaking at a press briefing in Lagos, Head of the group, Olu Alaba Alakija, explained that the group which is a united

front for Buhari/Osibanjo Diaspora Organisation, BODO, UK and Ireland, Hope Movement Worldwide and Buhari Friends Organisation Network in Diaspora, BFON, condemned the wardrobe allowance and the excessive salaries being collected by members of the National Assembly.

He said: “It is obnoxious, inconsiderable, insensitive and selfish for anyone seeking to serve the public good to move for such massive pay in the light of the general poverty of the 160 million Nigerians, where several state governments and even the Federal Government are in deficit of payment of work-

ers’ salaries for up to seven months; where the health care sector is in tatters and the education and employment of youths have suffered for many decades.”

He further said Nigerian politicians have turned themselves into instant millionaires just for being in government, paying themselves huge, obscene and unjustified salaries and allowances not commensurate with their very low productivity and without doing anything worthwhile for the country.

“For the past 16 years, the National Assembly has no visible impacts of their representations on the lives of Nigerians, so, why are we funding their expensive

lifestyles, and getting zero in return? What kind of legitimate work can anybody do in Nigeria that will fetch such atrocious remuneration or salary?

“This has got to stop.

One way it can stop is to start by reducing very drastically the remuneration of lawmakers and that of other political office holders in such a way that it would be unattractive to the potential looters, and that only people who sincerely want to serve would see such small remuneration as enough motivation to contest elections to offices and be committed to good governance and delivering desired results,” he said.

Lagos West Senatorial Election: Tribunal fixes August 20th for judgment PATIENCE O GBO

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he Lagos State Election Petition Tribunal sitting in Ikeja, Lagos on Thursday, set August 20th for judgment in the case brought before it by the Lagos West Senatorial candidate, Segun Adewale, of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP. Adewale is challenging the declaration of All Progressives Congress, APC’s candidate, Solomon Olamilekan Adeola as the winner of the April 28th election.

The three-man tribunal headed by Justice Sylvanus Oriji, adjourned the case to August 20, 2015 for judgement after listening to the submissions of both parties.

In the course of winding down the matter, counsel to the second respondent, Mr Muiz Banire, sought to tender two documents, but counsel to Adewale, Dr. Yemi Oke objected, stating that by law such documents should be presented at the trial and cannot be admitted.

Oke based his objection on the fact that the documents ought to have been tendered according to Section 42 of the Evidence Act by consent of both parties at the Pre-hearing session or by the respondent himself.

The tribunal therefore, ruled the documents out of order.

Banire also sought to bring in a motion for the documents to be admitted, but he later withdrew the documents.

Speaking with journalists later, Oke,

counsel to Adewale, said that based on the documents and witnesses presented to the tribunal, he is confident that Adewale will be declared the winner of the election.

“I have absolute confidence in the law and the tribunal. I believe that if the law and the facts are followed and the overwhelming bundles of written evidence that we presented before the tribunal that the other party accepted and which the court admitted as evidence; then we can say defi-

nitely, Adewale will be declared the winner of the election. The tribunal which has had about 10 sittings did not see the respondent tendering any evidence or bring up any witness, but resting their case on ours”.

Adewale is contesting the election at the tribunal on three grounds; that the nomination of Adeola is invalid, that election did not hold in some wards, among others irregularities which include falsification of results.

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South West

Friday, July 3, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Lagos boat mishap: Bodies of drown children recovered FRANCIS SUBERU

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odies of six children declared missing in Wednesday’s boat mishap that occurred at the Ojo area of Lagos have been found by agencies of the Lagos State government.

According to the managing director, Lagos State Waterways Authority, LASWA, Yinka Marinho, three of the bodies were recovered later on Wednesday while the remaining were recovered in the early hours of yesterday.

Speaking at a press briefing held at the Lagos

State secretariat, Alausa, Ikeja, yesterday, Marinho said eight of the 14 children survived the tragedy while six unfortunately died.

Narrating the cause of the unfortunate incident, he said what happened was that a motorised boat rammed into a canoe, conveying the children to school when the boat developed fault around Irewe, Ojo. He explained that the operator of the boat was trying to fix the problem as his engine stopped suddenly on the water and left the boat moving and eventually collided with the oncoming canoe despite loud wailing from

the children.

Marinho disclosed that the captain of the boat has been arrested and detained at the Railway Police Station.

He lamented that the passengers in the boat were not wearing live jacket despite the fact that the state government has distributed 3,500 life jackets to boat operators in the Ojo axis.

The LASWA boss also stated that many canoes plying the waterways, especially those from riverine communities were not captured among those to be monitored by LASWA, which was the reason many of them did not use life jackets.

He said government did not have enough manpower to monitor the operators, especially as the economic viability of such areas is lean, adding that since many people do not ply such areas, much attention was not always paid to them, He however noted that government would now monitoring them closely.

Marinho disclosed that in the next few weeks, another sets of 2,400 life jackets would be distributed to boat operators while another set of 1,800 would be distributed for the use of school children in riverine areas.

General manager, Lagos State Emergency Manage-

Flooded Ikorodu Road in Lagos after a down pour, yesterday.

OYHA approves 10 Special Advisers for Ajimobi K EMI OLAITAN IBADAN

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yo State House of Assembly has approved the appointment of 10 Special Advisers for Governor Abiola Ajimobi.

The approval was given on the floor of the House yesterday during its sitting presided over by the Speaker, Hon. Micheal Adeyemo.

Adeyemo, while reading a letter received from the governor, said the approval was necessary to enable Ajimobi carry out his administration’s activities without further delay.

The Speaker who pre-

sided over the plenary which lasted an hour also seized the opportunity to receive the report of the recently held retreat for the 32-member House.

Moreover, bills which seek the merging of ministries in order to reduce them from 23 to 13 also passed through first reading in the House.

The ministries include Ministry of Education, Science and Technology Law 2015, Ministry of Trade, Industry, Investment and Corporatives Law 2015, and the Ministry of Finance and Economic Development Law 2015.

Similarly, a law to

repeal some laws in the state and matters connected therewith as well as the Ministry of Envi-

ronment, Physical Planning and Urban Development Law 2015 was also read in the House.

ment Agency, LASEMA, Dr. Femi Oke-Osanyintolu, appealed to those using the waterways to always put on life jacket in order to prevent avoidable deaths.

Director general, Lagos Safety Commission, Odebunmi Dominga, vowed that government would enforce the law and ensure that people using the waterways wear life jackets.

Locally-produced drugs face extinction –PMGMAN FRANKA OSAKWE

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harmaceutical Manufacturers Association of Nigeria, PMGMAN, has warned that locally-produced drugs may fizzle out soon as a result of government policies.

This is because the Common External Tarrif, CET, and the New Drug Distribution Guideline, NDDG, threaten to annihilate the industry, thus leading to dependence on imported medicines and reversal of gains made in the fight against fake drugs.

Addressing newsmen in Lagos yesterday, PMGMAN president, Mr. Okey Akpa, explained that the recently adopted CET places zero tariff on finished imported drugs while essential raw and packaging materials required by the industry for local drug production attracts 5-20 per cent tariff.

He warned that the policies, if implemented, would reverse the gains made towards the nation’s self-sufficiency in essential medicine as well as open doors for full importation of finished drugs.

“This policy, undoubtedly, spells doom for the local industry as imported medicines will become far cheaper than locally produced ones.

“This situation is inimical to the survival of the lo-

cal pharmaceutical manufacturing sector and there is a need for an urgent review,” he said.

Akpa stressed that if implemented, CET would lead to unemployment, loss of investment, increase in fake and substandard products, skills stagnation, depletion of scarce foreign exchange and zero contribution to the GDP. In his recommendation, he called for an import adjustment tax of 20 per cent to be imposed immediately on imported finished pharmaceutical products of HS codes 3003 and 3004.

In addition, he appealed that pharmaceutical raw materials should be allowed to be imported at zero per cent by bonafide pharmaceutical products’ manufacturers.

The PMGMAN chairman, also called for the review of the NDDG which he said will lead to significant reduction in access to essential medicine, hike in the price of essential medicines, elimination of current wholesalers, unemployment, loss of business and investment in the pharmaceutical value chain.

“Our position as an industry is that a new distribution guideline be allowed to evolve after the wholesale system is sanitised. This approach will allow for inclusive participation of all current stakeholders and especially, wholesalers.

Oyo NURTW distributes 40 cars to branch officers KEMI OLAITAN IBADAN

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yo State chapter of the National Union of Road Transport Workers, NURTW, has started shedding its notorious toga of crisis for developmental purposes as it donated 40 cars to branch chapters of the union yesterday.

It will be recalled that before now, guns, cutlasses and other dangerous weap-

ons were procured with the union’s daily income and distributed to motor parks to unleash violence on rival union members and hapless citizens alike.

Scores of innocent citizens of the state and visitors have been killed, a development that peaked in 2011, and culminated in the killing of a medical student of the Ahmadu Bello University at the Iwo road motor park.

Speaking with journal-

ists, the state chairman of the union, Alhaji Taofeek Oyerinde (a.k.a. Fele), said such were the happenstance of the past regimes, stating that the union was borrowing a leaf from other organised associations in the state to truly impact positively on the welfare of members.

He said he would continue to pursue peace through prayers, deeds and actions capable of promoting peaceful co-

existence among union members.

Oyerinde whose tenure has witnessed tremendous development in terms of peace and tranquility across his interstate branches, said he would continue to toe the line of peace in accordance with the restoration agenda of Governor Abiola Ajimobi who is determined to return the state to its path of honour and pace setting status.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

South East

Friday, July 3, 2015

11

Withdraw your suit, Okorocha tells traditional rulers Chris Njoku OWERRI

I

mo State Governor, Rochas Okorocha, has warned the 40 traditional rulers in the state who took him and the government to court to withdraw the suit without further delay.

He also directed the royal fathers to tender an apology to the state government be-

cause they took the action to insult and embarrass him and the government.

The governor gave the directive while meeting with all the traditional rulers in the state except the 40 traditional rulers who were said to have refused to attend the meeting. He said for the 40 traditional rulers to have gone to court against him and the government for no

justifiable reason, means they must have mistaken his patience, tolerance and respect for the people of the state as weakness.

The traditional rulers had gone to court on the ground that the governor had suspended them and even went to the media to claim too that the court had restrained the governor from suspending them.

The governor said the traditional rulers were out to deliberately malign him and his government because he never suspended or sacked them or even any of them as Eze, and had not taken any action that suggested that he had any plan to go against the traditional rulers and then queried the rationale behind the traditional rulers’ action.

He explained that the State Council of Traditional Rulers led by HRM Eze Samuel Ohiri does not have the right to suspend or remove any Eze from his stool, saying; “it is only the governor who has that right and I had never exercised such right against the traditional rulers in question.”

The governor noted that the leadership of the tradi-

tional rulers’ council only suspended four of their members from the council and not as Ezes wondering why they were suspecting that such action comes from him or the government.

He also directed at the meeting that whatever money that was owed the traditional rulers in the state should be paid within a week.

PDP chieftain tasks APC on NASS leadership Abia

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ll Progressives Congress, APC, has been advised to swallow their pride and accept the emergence of Bukola Saraki and Yakubu Dogara as Senate President and House of Representatives Speaker, respectively in order to avoid plunging the ruling party into destructive crisis that would engender the possible impeachment of President Muhammadu Buhari.

Constitutional lawyer and rights activist, Ambassador Anthony Agbazuere, gave the advice yesterday while speaking with journalists at Umuahia “on the state of the Nigerian nation.

He noted that the since the group that made it possible for Saraki and his deputy to emerge are more in number, going after them could backfire and ‘may even lead to the impeachment of either President Buhari or both Buhari and Osinbajo. The implications are obvious”.

Agbazuere said that the hierarchy of APC had failed to play thier cards well prior to the election of the National Assembly leaders and any action taken now to upset the apple cart would be to the

detriment of the party.

He equally advised the APC leadership to stop threatening the Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu with removal, saying they “must realise that his position is a bitter pill which the APC must swallow to survive”.

Agbazuere, who is a chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, and the immediate past Abia State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, reminded APC that it should not forget that the same structure which brought Ekweremadu also brought Saraki on board.

The politician also faulted the ongoing attempt by the APC leadership to foist principal officers on the National Assembly, saying that after elections, political party has no power in any law to choose leaders for federal legislature.

He stated that even if the party “smuggles” into its constitution the right to appoint National Assembly leadership, it would still be inconsistent with the Nigerian Constitution, hence they can only persuade the National Assembly members to toe the party line.

L-R: Mrs. Chidi Onyemelukwe, daughter; former Vice President, Chief Alex Ekwueme and wife Chief Mrs. Beatrice, Mr Obi Okoli and Amechi Oformata at the Aguata, Orumba North, South Convention in Seattle Washington recently.

gbeNgA oguNbufuNmi

A

s the legal battle between an Nnewi based auto manufacturing concerns, Innoson Group of Companies and Guaranty Trust Bank rages, the auto assembly company has reacted to publications made by the bank in some national dailies (not National Mirror), to the effect that the company was owing it some money which it has refused to pay.

While denouncing the publication, Innoson in a

Student machetes teacher for punishing girlfriend DeNNis Agbo ENUGU

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student of Community Secondary School, CSS, Alor Uno, Nsukka Local Government Area of Enugu State, simply known as Ebuka, is said to have attacked a classroom teacher in the school leaving him with machete cut.

Ebuka it was gathered attacked the teacher known as Iyke, for allegedly punishing his girl friend that was alleged to have been rude to

the teacher.

The suspect who was said to have been acting under the influence of hard drug on the fateful day, was said to have concealed a machete under his cloth and asked the teacher to come, sensing danger, the teacher was said to have took to his heels, but was chased into a classroom where he got a machete cut on the head.

The teacher, it was gathered, would have been killed, but for the intervention of other teachers and students of the school who

over-powered Ebuka.

Meanwhile the Enugu State Police Public Relations Officer, Ebere Amaraizu could not confirm the incident as at press time.

Arase, Police boss

Auto company alleges bank working against N10bn judgment debt payment

press statement said that contrary to allegations that it, (Innoson), owes GTB some money which it has refused to pay, the company alleged that the bank is the one indebted to it, as indicated by various court judgements which the bank had refused to complied with.

Innoson said in one of such cases, it operates an account with GTB, and that it later discovered the bank had imposed excessive and unlawful charges on its account to the tune of N560milion.

The company said it demanded for a refund which the bank refused and that as a result, a legal action was commenced against GTB in suit number FHC/ AWK/CS/139/2012 at the Federal High Court, Awka, Anambra State and judgement obtained in the sum of N5.7billion Innoson said GTB appealed against the judgement at the Court of Appeal, Enugu Division, in Appeal Number CA/E/288/2013 and that the appellate

court ordered the bank to pay the judgement debt of N5.7billion with accrued interest into an interest yielding account in the name of the Chief Registrar of the court.

The company said that in another suit, Innoson’s goods were auctioned by the Nigerian Customs Service and that it initiated legal action against the Nigerian Custom Service in suit FHC/L/CS/603/2006 and that judgement was delivered in its favour in the sum of N2.4billion through a garnishee order directing GTB to pay the judgement sum to Innoson from custom account domicile with the bank.

On the consignment of goods and bill of lading which GTB alleged were illegally cleared by Innoson, the auto manufacturing company contended that the goods imported by it, were consigned to GTB under the relevant bills of lading, ‘’the bank endorsed the bills of lading to the company and released same to the company and in addition,

all the duties on the goods were paid by GTB.’’ Innoson said the matter had been investigated by the Economic and Financial Crime Commission, EFCC, and by the former Inspector General of Police Mohammed Abubakar and GTB was asked to produce the register where details of endorsement of bill of lading are entered, but the bank claimed that the register was burnt by fire.

With the bank’s answer, the former Inspector General of Police, cautioned the bank over frivolous allegation and asked Innoson’s representative to go, while EFCC in conjunction with NDIC also reconciled and audited Innoson’s account with GTB and discovered that the bank imposed excessive and unlawful charges in the sum of N560million on Innoson’s account.

The company contended that the claim of the bank is a ruse tailored toward frustrating the payment of the judgement debts of over N10Bilion it owes Innoson.

12

South South

Friday, July 3, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

JTF alerts on new strategies by kidnappers OsahOn Julius YENAGOA

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Members of the 2014 NYSC Batch B during the passing out parade in Rivers State, yesterday.

New Rivers CP reads riot act to officers Dennis naku

PORT HARCOURT

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ew Commissioner of Police in Rivers State, Mr. Chris Ezike, on Thursday read the riot act to officers and men of the command.

He urged them to ensure that adequate security of lives and property becomes their priority in policing the state.

Ezike gave the charge in his maiden briefing with senior officers and men at the command’s headquarter located along Moscow Road, Port Harcourt.

He said police men must justify their monthly pay by performing commensurate duties, adding that idleness,

malingering and poor attitude to crime fighting shall not be tolerated.

He ordered that henceforth policemen must display professional knowledge and operate within the laws, rules and extant regulations, noting that reckless use of firearms against the provisions of the Force Order 237 shall not be condoned.

“The 2015 elections have come and gone. However the aftershocks still remain. The police under my watch must remain neutral, professional, fair but very firm.

“Any policeman or woman who has political interest or is so committed to the ideals of any political party

is advised to resign his or her commission to enable him/her register as a political party member.

“All officers and men are to ensure that their actions and conducts remain within the provisions of the Nigeria Constitution, Police Acts and Regulations and other extant legislations,” he thundered.

The police boss explained that within the same framework, “any police officer that abuses the goodwill he enjoys or wallops same on the platform of ineptitude or corruption will have full sanctions visited on him as applicable.

He said the command would adopt high visibility policing method, adding

that policemen must not only be on patrol but must be seen to be on patrol.

To strengthen this strategy, CP Ezike immediately reviewed the personnel deployment profile to recover wastage and unauthorised deployments to the effect that all squadron commanders are directed to withdraw PMF personnel deployed to persons not entitled and without approval from the Inspector-General of Police.

Similarly, all area commanders, head of department and DPOs are directed to also withdraw their personnel so deployed as monitoring task force shall soon commence action to ensure compliance.

Stop giving loans to Wike, APC urges banks …says gov spends N60bn in 30 days Dennis naku

PORT HARCOURT

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ll Progressives Congress, APC, has warned banks in the state to stop giving out loans to the government of Nyesom Wike, saying such monies were are being used on frivolities.

Making the allegation on Thursday, Rivers State chapter of the APC in a statement signed by its chairman, Davies Ikanya, said any bank that indulges in giving out further loans does so at its own risk.

More so, the party alleged that Wike “squandered” over N60bn in his

first 30 days as governor and this amounts to an average of N2bn per day.

The statement reads: “In what is clearly a tale of the absurd, Wike’s rubber stamp State House of Assembly has approved N30bn within 30 days for expenditure without any project attached.

“Apart from this N30bn, the administration of former Governor Chibuike Amaechi left N7.5bn, plus the N23bn released to the state from the Federation Account and Internally Generated Revenue (IGR), making the total funds available for Wike to squander over N60bn within 30

days.

“Within the 30 days, which rank among the worst in the history of Rivers State, Wike has neither initiated nor embarked upon any project apart from ordering a trailer load of his favourite Lexus XIII drink, a bottle of which costs N1.5m, and sharing the remaining billions of naira with Madam Patience Jonathan, INEC officials and others that supervised the killing of Rivers State people so that Wike would become governor,” But in his response, the state’s Commissioner for Housing, Barrister Emma Okah, blasted the APC chairman, saying that such

an allegation was tactically calculated to divert attention from the “monumental” fraud committed by the administration of Amaechi.

He said: “There is absolutely no truth in what they (APC) are saying. They are ignorant of the truth. His Excellency (Governor Wike) only collected N10 billion which he attached to various projects made known to Rivers people.

“They want to divert attention from the revelation of their misappropriation of Rivers’ resources thrusted to their care. This government cannot be ruffled by their unsubstantiated allegations.”

oint Task Force, JTF, nicknamed ‘Operation Pulo Shield,’ has alerted the public of new strategies and criminal dimensions being adopted by kidnappers, warning that people should be wary and mindful of the obnoxious acts by syndicated miscreants.

In apparent reaction to reports that hoodlums who abducted the ex-Bayelsa acting governor recently, dubiously and mischievously claimed they were sent by the JTF, Gen. Emmanuel Atewe, the military outfit’s commander said there is the need to alert the public.

Spokesman of the JTF, Lt. Col. Isa Ado, said: “Our attention has been drawn to headlines in series of national newspapers (not National Mirror) published on July 1, 2015 which reported that the hoodlums

who abducted the wife of the ex-Bayelsa acting governor recently dubiously and mischievously claimed they were sent by the commander, JTF. “This headquarters wish to bring to the notice of the general public that kidnappers in the state have adopted a new strategy and dimension to criminality in the state and warned that people should be wary and mindful of obnoxious acts by syndicated miscreants.”

It went further to reveal how troops of the JTF recently swung into action in rescuing two female cousins of former President Goodluck Jonathan, who were kidnapped just a week before his final disengagement as President.

The statement made available to National Mirror in Yenagoa, said the kidnapped victims were released on June 5 2015 without paying any ransom.

Senatorial election: Sylva withdraw petition against Ben Bruce OsahOn Julius YENAGOA

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n indication that ex-governor of Bayelsa State and a national leader of the All Progressive Congress, APC, Chief Timipre Sylva, may yet contest next year’s gubernatorial election in the state emerged yesterday with the withdrawal of his petition against Senator Ben-Murray Bruce over the April 8 election of the Bayelsa East senatorial district.

The National and State House of Assembly Election Petition Tribunal sitting in Yenagoa said the former governor has withdrawn his petition through Sydney Ibanichuka, the counsel to the former governor.

He, however, refused to give details, insisting that it was done based on personal sacrifice and need for peace in the senatorial district.

Though the former governor has not publicly declared his intention to return to the Government House, the body language of some members of his party and his supporters indicate that their principal may yet come out to contest while Sylva, in a recent interview said he was still qualified to

return.

At the hearing yesterday in Yenagoa, the presiding chairperson of the State Election Petition Tribunal, Justice Ononeze Madu, while hearing submissions on the Sylva’s petition in suit number EPT/ BY/SEN/003/2015, said the tribunal was committed in ensuring justice for the betterment of the citizenry and has accepted the decision of the petitioners.

Justice Duro Adeyele, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, SAN, told newsmen that the withdrawal was in the best interest of the people.

Adeyele, counsel to Senator Bruce commended the withdrawal.

His words: “We have gone through pre-hearing and today being July 1, the petition has been withdrawn.”

Chief Sylva, the flag bearer of the APC for the Bayelsa East Senatorial seat, had approached the state Election Petition Tribunal, asking the court to declare the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Senator Bruce, for not being qualified to contest the April 8 National Assembly election due to his dual citizenship and refusal to relinquish such before the election.

Friday, July 3, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

13

Politics

Okorocha: Hurdles to second term journey

14

S

ection 2(1) (ii) of Instrument Number SSS 1 of May 23, 1999, made pursuant to Section 6 of the National Security Agencies, NSA, Decree of 1986 and consequently re-enacted as Section 6 of NSA Act CAP N74 LFN 2004, empowers personnel of the Department of State Services, DSS, to provide protective security for designated principal government functionaries including, but not limited to, the President and Vice President as well as members of their immediate families.

This section goes further to mandate the DSS to provide “protective security for sensitive installations” such as the Presidential Villa and visiting foreign dignitaries.

Statutorily and constitutionally, the DSS is charged with the protection of the president, the vice president, the Senate President, state governors, deputy governors, Speaker of the House of Representatives and state lawmakers and their families.

And in order to give vent to this, the DSS personnel are specially trained. The kind of training received by the personnel is such that they are seen as “specialists” in special protection.

When Boko Haram went haywire, attacking security establishments, one senator had remarked that he would flee the country the day the terrorists are able to over-run a DSS office. Perhaps, that was a measure of the level of confidence that some Nigerians have grown to have in the Service.

The National Security Organisation NSO, now DSS, was established in 1976 after the assassination of the then Head of State, General Murtala Ramat Muhammed, specifically to protect the President and maintain internal security.

The NSO diligently executed this strategic mandate until 1986 when General Ibrahim Babangida overthrew the government of the then General Muhammadu Buhari.

For very obvious reasons, he clamped down on the NSO because the NSO reportedly frustrated various efforts to over throw the Buhari junta.

Of course, Babangida’s ascendancy to power also signaled the beginning of the destruction of the Nigeria Police Force which was then a very intelligent and powerful organisation, reportedly feared for being capable of jointly executing a coup with the military.

The ability of the NSO to stave off the coup for a long time compelled the Babangida regime to weaken it. The junta thereafter split the organization into three bodies. These were the National Intelligence Agency, NIA, charged with external intelligence, the State Security Service, SSS, now DSS, charged with internal security, and the Defence Intelligence Agency, DIA, which became the intelligence arm of the military or defence forces.

With such a rich history, it is therefore quite unfortunate and disturbing, reports from the State House indicating that the DSS has been severely relegated in the scheme of things.

President Buhari’s Aide-de-Camp, ADC, Lt. Col. Mohammed Abubakar, had on June 24 reportedly issued a memo which he distributed to key officials in the Villa stating that from then on, “DSS personnel have been redeployed from some duty beats/locations.”

According to the memo, the major security tasks initially being handled by DSS officials are now to be handled by officials of other security agencies.

The DSS was barred from getting close to the President or mounting guards or patrolling areas inside the Presidential Villa, a development which would

DSS, partisanship and the President’s security

The Department of State Services, DSS, is statutorily empowered to provide special protection for the president and his family along with some other public officials. OMEIZA AJAYI writes that their recent purported expulsion from the inner chambers of the State House could only be at the President’s own peril.

C-in-C Control Gate and Panama.

Not known to allow such issue go without a firm response, the DSS in a June 26 reply to Mr. Abubakar, had through the Chief Security Officer to the President, Abdulrahman Mani, rejected the ban.

Mani, himself an official of the Service, had issued a counter-directive ordering his men to stay put at their duty posts. He reportedly accused the ADC of grandstanding, overzealousness, limited knowledge and outright display of ignorance.

While all these went on, the President, whose security was the main subject of dispute kept mum.

He merely issued a press statement after a chain of reaction in the media saying there were only some “routine adjustments” of security personnel at the Aso Rock Villa. The statement also denied that the President ordered the expulsion of the DSS operatives from the Villa.

The lack of clear and direct instruction from the President is nonetheless, disturbing. For, if the President is intent on altering the security architecture, there has to be a strong policy outline and pronouncement.

Buhari

see them effectively restricted to the “outer perimeter” of the presidential palace.

According to Abubakar, personnel of the Armed Forces and the police, who were trained as Presidential Body Guards, PBGs, are now to “provide close/ immediate protection for Mr. President henceforth.”

Mr. Abubakar was also quoted as having listed some of the areas to be taken care of by the PBGs to include, Admin Reception, Service Chiefs Gate, Residence Reception, Rear Resident, Resident Gate, Office Reception, C-in-C Control Office, ACADE Gate,

If the new admInIstratIon feels that some servIce personnel were grossly partIsan In the buIldup to the electIons,

the rIght thIng to do

Is a probe and then, an overhaul

What is happening in the Villa is an ego issue which can cause a breach of security if not well-handled. The security of the President should not be toyed with.

If the new administration feels that some service personnel were grossly partisan in the build-up to the elections, the right thing to do is a probe and then, an overhaul, if anyone is found guilty, and not the complete humiliation of an entire service. It is not in the place of the ADC to handle such a sensitive matter.

The President’s silence can only cause more confusion and apprehension. His silence can only lend credence to earlier rumours that the State House was bugged by operatives, hence the President’s refusal to move in until weeks after his swearing-in.

As there are security personnel who are sympathetic to the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, so there are those whose sympathy lies with the All Progressives Congress, APC. Both parties have a long list of recentlyretired military and security officers as their members.

After all, it was this same personnel who shielded then Vice President Goodluck Jonathan from having access to his ill boss, the late President Umaru Yar’Adua.

When eventually Jonathan became Nigeria’s President, he did not expel the service from the villa but selected those to work with.

Whatever the case is, the President needs to assert his authority in this matter rather than putting everything in the hands of his ADC. For, security issues cannot be handled by one organisation alone.

It is not like the civil service, where, for instance, the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Barr.

Danladi Kifasi, now indirectly oversees the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation.

In any case, nothing untoward should happen to our President.

14

Politics

M

ore than 30 days into his second tenure in office, Imo State governor, Owelle Rochas Okorocha, who won the 2015 governorship election under the platform of the All Progressives Congress, APC is yet to commence fully the take off of his second missionary journey.

Apart from the first set of appointments of the kitchen cabinet made by the governor, which included: his close confidant and son-in-law, Chief Uche Nwosu, who took charge as his Chief of Staff, CoS; former CoS, Chief Uche Ejiogu, replaced Prof. Anthony Awukah as the Secretary to the State Government, SSG; and the governor’s Senior Special Assistant, SSA, on Media, Sam Onwuemeodo, who was elevated to the position of Chief Press Secretary, CPS, the governor is yet to form his entire cabinet.

National Mirror learnt that Governor Okorocha is having some hiccups in trying to balance the appointment of his cabinet following the agreement he had earlier entered into with some political allies who assisted him to conquer his closest political rival and Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, candidate in the last gubernatorial election, Hon Emeka Ihedioha.

Sources disclosed that the governor is trying to ensure that those being presented to him by his allies are widely accepted and would also be the people he could trust as members of his cabinet, having lost out in installing his choice of Speaker in the just concluded state House of Assembly Speakership race.

The governor’s efforts to have absolute control of the state House of Assembly failed as his choice of Speaker did not sail through. The governor had wanted his former deputy CoS, Chinedu Offor, a greenhorn in the House, to emerge as the Speaker; however majority of the House members had their way by replaying the script that was acted recently in the National Assembly, by electing their choice and one of the ranking members, Hon Acho Ihim as the Speaker.

Ihim emerged unopposed as a ranking member of the House after some members who went to court failed to get legal backing to amend the rule for the speakership contest to be an all comers’ affair, a loophole that would have given the governor’s candidate the position.

A reliable source close to the House of Assembly told National Mirror that the members’ reasons for rejecting Governor Okorocha’s candidate and appointing Ihim as the Speaker was the experience of the immediate past Assembly where members failed to provide Imo indigenes quality representation.

The entire blame was hinged on the immediate past House headed by the former Speaker, Hon Benjamin Uwajumogu, who the members alleged was more or less a rubber stamp of the governor. This may be true.

Uwajumogu-led House was accused of not providing a check on the executive, particularly in their oversight functions. Most contracts were executed during Uwajumogu’s tenure without due process.

Some of the incumbent lawmakers complained that because the House was not independent, due process was not only abandoned, most laws churned out did not impact positively on the people. The same scenario played out on members’ welfare as their severance allowances in the immediate past Assembly were not paid at the time the lawmakers left office, These reasons notwithstanding, some political analysts believed that there is however more to the emergence of Speaker Ihim.

Ihim from Okigwe state constituency, National Mirror gathered was a product of underground politics sponsored by Senator Ifeanyi Ararume, who incidentally is from the same constituency with Ihim. Some political analysts disclosed to National Mirror that the emergence of Ihim is not only to ensure an independent legislature, but also to ensure that the governor does not at any point renege on the agreement he had entered with Senator Ararume during the last election.

Part of the agreement, National Mirror reliably gathered, was to ensure that Governor Okorocha won in Okigwe zone which the senator actually carried out to the detriment of his former party, PDP. However more headaches await Governor Okorocha in the days ahead, as it appears Governor Okorocha’s next four years will be full actions and distractions.

The government is putting in place legal documents that will enable the governor defend himself against three candidates challenging his victory in the last governorship poll. That may not be all. Dwindling resources and heavy debt burden may pose a serious challenge to Governor Okorocha’s administration in delivering the much sought after dividends of democracy.

Friday, July 3, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Okorocha: Hurdles to second term journey CHRIS NJOKU enumerates the likely hurdles on the way of a smooth second term tenure for Imo State governor, Rochas Okorocha, and how he intends to surmount the challenges.

DwinDling resources anD heavy Debt burDen may pose a serious challenge

to governor okorocha’s aDministration in Delivering the much sought after DiviDenDs of Democracy.

Okorocha

The nonpayment of workers’ salaries in the state is one serious problem that the governor is grappling to solve. Though the governor has claimed that he was not owing workers’ salaries’ even though he was among the APC governors who went to President Muhammadu Buhari for financial bailout, investigation revealed that all the parastatals and agencies are owed close to four months while ministries workers are being owed three months.

The governor is looking for ways to make the unworkable structure of these agencies and ministries viable following dwindling revenues from the federation account. This may compound the problems envisaged

further.

In his inaugural speech, Governor Okorocha disclosed of plan to merge or scrap some of these unviable ministries and agencies. But the governor said his greatest headache is how to develop the state and at the same time ensure that those who voted him into power are not hurt.

Few days after expressing the dilemma, the governor’s bulldozers brought down private buildings in some parts of Owerri capital city, believed to be obstructing the new city layout. As the dust was settling down on the demolition, the governor assembled Keke operators in the state to prepare to move out of the metropolis that has of recent suffered congestion.

The demolition of buildings, setting up of task forces and intended plan to dislodge keke operators in the state capital, however are not going down well with the people, particularly the artisans who are now regretting putting the man back at the helms of affairs for a second term.

According to a political pundit, Chief Emmanuel Chima, all these hurdles would provide the PDP veritable ground for stiff opposition in the days ahead.

Group scores Buhari high in 30 days Kemi Olaitan IBADAN

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non-governmental organisation, the Nigeria Voters Assembly, NVA, has given President Muhammadu Buhari a pass mark, saying he has performed creditably well in his first 30 days in office.

NVA said this in a release issued after its monthly evaluation meeting on the state of the nation and signed by its National President, Comrade Mashood Erubami.

Erubami said the President has not disappointed Nigerians, especially given the maturing political environment, relative peace and security, improving electricity, improved foreign relations, and improving industrial harmony in the country.

He said Buhari has started governance, keep-

ing in mind the welfare and security of lives of the people, reiterating that at each juncture he finds himself, the three key areas he promised change namely, security, corruption and economy and has shown that he realised what the promise stood for in the lives of millions of Nigerians who against all odds invested in his election, hoping for qualitative change.

He said: “It should be common knowledge that President Buhari do not presently hold the magic wand to meet at once all the genuine desires of the people who face uncertain future with high list of expectations, due to 16 years of clueless governance of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, he has however started the interrogation of the challenges being faced by the people, economy and the governmental institu-

tions between short term, medium term and long term policy implementation strategy.

“The current eagerness on the part of Nigerians is understandable because generally speaking, people’s high expectations for change from worst poverty to prosperity are reflective in their clamour for Buhari as the catalyst for real change in Nigeria, they would want the goodwill the President and the All Progressives Congress, APC, presently enjoy not to be an end but a means to achieving better end of democratic consolidation that will bring a new dawn into their lives.”

Saying that it is however indefensible and inconceivable that the PDP which set this country on backward journey into paradox of poverty in the midst of plenty and general under development

should join the fray in the name of politics which it played for 16 years ending as an epic failure, Erubami countered opposition parties to note that the challenges facing and troubling Nigeria’s economy are daunting and having plagued the country in the past 16 years as a result of very weak and misdirected leadership, patience on the part of the people before they could be fixed, is needed He said: “In the short run, the President has embarked on short term measures to reduce the economic tension created by months of unpaid salaries. He has moved beyond mere proclamation but has conveyed meetings which ended meaningfully and gave hope which have started manifesting in the states being able to start paying the arrears of salaries owed their workers.”

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Be politically conscious, Mohammed tasks Nigerians olajIde omojolomoju

N

ational Publicity Secretary of All Progressives Congress, APC, Alhaji Lai Mohammed has called on Nigerians to follow up their making history by voting for the opposition to take over the reins of power from a ruling party that held sway for 16 years, by ensuring that the process of change - which they brought about - comes into fruition.

Mohammed said this while speaking at the 9th Ramadan Lecture, organized under the aegis of Lai Mohammed Ramadan Lecture Series, which held in Oro, Kwara State yesterday.

He said the “best way to do it is for Nigerians to remain politically-aware and engaged as they were in the run-up to the elections.”

Mohammed said that means Nigerians must not only be willing to defend the change they voted for by continuing to support the government of President Muhammadu Buhari, but aso prevent reactionary forces, who never wanted or voted for change, from sabotaging APC’s change mantra, adding: “Whatever is worth fighting for is worth defending.”

He said that this was against the background of

the “stark realities that we face daunting challenges in all sectors,” adding that never before has our nation been put in a situation where it virtually had to start rebuilding from the scratch, after almost all sectors have become nearly comatose.

He said: “Our health sector is in serious distress, for want of a stronger description. Nigeria’s health statistics are worse than the average for African countries, even though we are the giant of Africa.

“In the education sector, ordinarily, Nigeria’s education system should prepare the children for the responsibilities of citizenship and prepare our youth to contribute to the development of our country.

“Unfortunately the current system is failing to equip Nigeria’s children with the knowledge and skills they need to thrive in today’s rapidly changing society and economy. ”A large proportion of our country’s population live very close to the poverty line and are highly vulnerable to small variations of income.”

Mohammed added that unemployment, especially among youths has been described as a ticking time bomb, and that is not an exaggeration.

Ortom promises to wipe out terrorism Henry Iyorkase MAKURDI

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enue State governor, Samuel Ortom, yesterday declared his determination to chase criminals, especially armed robbers, kidnappers and political thugs out of the state.

He made the disclosure when the executive committee of the socio-cultural organisation, Mdzough U Tiv, MUT, visited him at the Benue Peoples House in Makurdi.

The governor said this categories of people posed serious threat to residents and investments in the state since no investor was willing to invest in an insecure environment.

He said he was collaborating with the conventional security apparatus, traditional rulers, youths, as well as the Civilian Joint Task Force CJTF, to use the carrot and stick approach to rout the criminals.

Expressing happiness

Politics

Friday, July 3, 2015

that peace building efforts between Tiv farmers and Fulani herdsmen had started yielding results with the two groups signing a peace accord in Logo Local Government area and thereafter playing football together, Ortom reiterated his appeal to citizens to forgive and reconcile with one another so as to create what he described as a new Benue.

He urged MUT leaders to shun partisan politics and promote unity of all Tiv people irrespective of political and religious affiliation.

Earlier, MUT President General, Chief Edward Ujege listed the consolidation of peace building efforts between farmers and herdsmen, started by the previous administration, the teaching of Tiv language in schools and support for Tiv Day slated for December, 2015 as areas which the governor should attend to.

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INEC chair: Zakari’s appointment tears PDP apart

•Deputy Publicity Secretary dissociates party from Metuh’s statement FrancIs suberu

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eputy National Publicity Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Alhaji Abdulahi Jalo, has dissociated himself and his party from the statement made by the PDP National Publicity Secretary, Olisa Metuh; saying Metuh made all the assertions on his own.

Jalo, speaking with National Mirror in a telephone interview yesterday, said the National Working Committee, NWC, of

the PDP never met at any time to discuss or take a position, such as was presented by Metuh in his Wednesday press briefing.

Jalo said: “As a loyal member of PDP, I am not aware of the resolve by the NWC to reject the appointment of Hajia Amina Bala Zakari as the acting chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC. “When and where was that meeting held? It is not fair on the part of Metuh to just say something on behalf of the party without the knowledge of

the party leadership and members of the NWC. “It is not also right or legal for him to say that PDP has given 10-day ultimatum to President Muhammadu Buhari to produce his ministerial list.

“His statement as reported to me is his personal views and not that of the party. I wonder when and where those resolves were made.”

Metuh had on Wednesday addressed a press conference in which he asserted that the leadership of the PDP rejected in totality the appointment

of Hajia Zakari as acting chairman of INEC. He alleged that President Buhari made the appointment based on sentiment and nepotism and that the Presidency plans to use her appointment to compromise the election tribunals in favour of the All Progressives Congress, APC. Metuh said the public no longer has confidence and trust in INEC, saying Buhari appointed Zakari based on her very strong relationship with the Presidency and a governor from the North West.

Lagos State Governor, Akinwunmi Ambode (right) presenting a plaque to the Corps Marshal/Chief Executive, Federal Road Safety Corps, Mr. Boboye Oyeyemi, during a courtesy visit to the governor in Lagos, yesterday.

UPP counsels Buhari on ministerial appointments adeola Tukuru ABUJA

U

nited Peoples Party, UPP, has urged President Muhammadu Buhari not to follow Peoples Democratic Party, PDP’s bad example of appointing its card-carrying members as ministers, Resident Electoral Commissioners, RECs and others whenever he is considering such appointments.

UPP National Chairman, Chief Chekwas Okorie, in a press statement issued yesterday in Abuja, said an improved and credible electoral reform shall begin with the neutrality, credibility and non-partisanship of officers of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, especially the chairman, federal commissioners and RECs.

UPP also congratulated Mrs. Amina Bala Zakari, on her appointment as INEC’s acting chairman.

Okorie said: “As a party that interacted with INEC regularly from the period of our application to be registered, when Mrs. Zakari was commissioner in-charge of Political Party Monitoring and Liaison, PPML, now Election and Party Monitoring, EPM, we found her to be a diligent, conscientious and upright personality that was fair and firm in carrying out her responsibilities. By our assessment she is a woman of integrity. Her appointment is meritorious.

“We further congratulate her for being the first woman in the history of Nigeria to lead INEC, even as an acting chairman. In wishing Mrs. Zakari a successful tour of

duty, we suggest to her to commence without delay, introducing strict discipline among the staff and zero tolerance for corruption.

“As a stakeholder in INEC in our capacity as a registered and functional political party, we are aware that most of the poor image of INEC emanates from certain category of its staff and departments which play critical roles in the conduct of elections and handling of petitions at the Election Petition Tribunals arising from the elections on behalf of INEC. One of the weaknesses of INEC is its lack of strong will required to deal with its erring staff.”

The party also commended President Buhari for exercising his prerogative of power under the Nigerian Constitution in

appointing Mrs. Zakari, saying: “We do not share in the unwarranted propaganda by the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, on an appointment in which the President merely exercised his inherent powers. The issue of lack of due process will arise if Mrs. Zakari is confirmed the substantive chairman of the Commission without passing the screening and approval of the Nigerian Senate.”

Okorie said: “The argument that President Buhari reversed the action of Professor Attahiru Jega who handed over to Ambassador Mohammad Wali is illogical and pedestrian. Professor Jega was right to hand over his office to whomsoever he chose in line with the rules guiding INEC.”

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Editorial

Friday, July 3, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

All the Facts, All the Sides A PUBLICATION OF GLOBAL MEDIA MIRROR LTD BARRISTER JIMOH IBRAHIM, CFR PUBLISHER

SUNDAY OLAJIDE MANAGING DIRECTOR/CEO BEN MEMULETIWON ACTING DAILY EDITOR GBEMI OLUJOBI SATURDAY EDITOR AYO OLESIN SUNDAY EDITOR DOZIE OKEBALAMA COORDINATOR, EDITORIAL BOARD CALLISTUS OKE EDITORIAL PAGE EDITOR ISE-OLUWA IGE ABUJA BUREAU CHIEF AUGUSTUS IMEKAN ACTING HEAD, GRAPHICS

For the orphan, Dan Maraya Jos: A tribute

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fter his roaring success as a traditional music icon for over four decades, Adamu Wayya, popularly known as Dan Maraya Jos, passed on June 20, 2015, at the age of 70, no thanks to the protracted illness he contended with in his last days. He was, in his lifetime, a professional musician valued so much, especially in northern Nigeria; his last major public engagement being his appearance at the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) fund raising dinner in Abuja before the last general elections. Dan Maraya Jos means ‘The Little Orphan of Jos’; a graphic representation of his humble background. He lost his parents in infancy.

His father, also a musician, was well respected in the palace of the Emir of Bukur. Adamu obviously took after the footsteps of his dad. For, from childhood, he showed keen interest in music under the tutelage of notable traditional musicians in the king’s palace. As a young boy, he made ‘kuntigi’, a small single string lute, which he used all through his musical career. By the time he came to limelight in northern Nigeria, he had established himself as a reservoir of knowledge in tradition, history and culture.

As a result of his persistence in practising his trade, he became known all over the country, de-

spite the fact that he used Hausa language to present his lyrics and rhythms. Often advocating moral uprightness and decent community living, Adamu had on several occasions sung praises of distinguished and credible heroes of various communities around the Plateau, and indeed, the entire North. Not always limiting himself to the diadem, he also did songs meant to teach moral lessons for commoners and non-privileged folks. One of his earliest and famous songs is ‘Wakar Karem Mota’ (Song of the Driver’s Mate) in which he hailed youths hustling to load mini-commercial buses with passengers, changing deflated tyres or doing other dirty jobs in their lines of duty.

‘The Little Orphan of Jos’ was equally strong in capturing unsettling national issues - the Nigerian Civil War (1967 – 1970), for example. He, in one of his works on the tragic side of the country’s history, sang generous praises in honour of Nigerian soldiers during the civil war, incorporating vivid accounts of horrendous war scenes. His songs mirrored the social and related corridors of life, too, like marriage, childbirth, friendship, tolerance along ethnic and religious lines, et cetera. A popular song of his, ‘Jawabin Awe’, for example, is a discourse on marriage which

YOUTHS EAGER TO LEAVE INDELIBLE FOOTPRINTS ON THE SANDS OF TIME HAVE A LOT TO LEARN FROM HIS HUMBLE BEGINNING AND VICTORIOUS END advises couples to settle their differences amicably. ‘Auren Dole’ is another hit song in which he decried forced marriages. For a man credited as not having a biological child he could call his own in his lifetime, though he acted as parent and guardian to scores of his adopted children,Dan Maraya Jos was very much committed to family living.

A down-trodden, yet down-toearth, creative, consistent and persevering orphan, who rose from an obscure background and emerged as a trusted celebrity, in a largely morally bankrupt Nigeria of today, Dan Maraya Jos deserves accolades, not just from the North, where he enjoyed widespread following among the old and the young, but across the length and breadth of Nigeria.

The Federal Government honoured him twice in his lifetime as Member of the Order of the Niger (MON) and Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON). He

ON THIS DAY July 3, 1988 United States Navy warship, USS Vincennes, shot down Iran Air Flight 655 over the Persian Gulf, killing all 290 people aboard. Iran Air Flight 655 was an Iran Air civilian passenger flight from Tehran to Dubai. The attack took place in Iranian airspace, over Iran’s territorial waters in the Persian Gulf; and on the flight’s usual flight path. The attack ranks ninth among the deadliest disasters in aviation history

Letters tothe theEditor Editor Letters to

July 3, 2005 Same-sex marriage in Spain became legal.

In 2004, the nation’s newly elected social democratic gover nment, led by Prime Minister José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero, began a campaign for its legalization, including the right of adoption by same-sex couples. After much debate, a law per mitting same-sex marriage was passed by the Cortes Generales, Spain’s bicameral parliament.

also won the United Nations peace medal, while the University of Jos awarded him an honourary PHD. Nigerians in their tributes have acknowledged the achievements of the fallen musician and his worth. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar described him as “a decent man who used traditional music to advocate freedom and promote national unity, peace and stability by preaching togetherness”. Director General, Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN), Ladan Salih, says: “The late singer would be remembered for societal transformation through indigenous music. While Tony Okoroji, Chairman, Copyright Society of Nigeria (COSON), who was overseas when he passed on, described Dan Maraya Jos as a man whose words could be counted on. Okoroji said ‘The Little Orphan of Jos’ is “a committed musician who deserved to be immortalized by the Federal Government”. It is imperative, however, that the charity of immortalizing him begins from the music industry, especially now that the man is gone. But the nation having paid its last respect to Dan Maraya Jos, youths eager to leave indelible footprints on the sands of time have a lot to learn from his humble beginning and victorious end.

x July 3, 2013 President of Egypt, Mohamed Morsi, was overthrown by the military after four days of nationwide protests calling for his resignation, to which he didn’t respond. President of the Supreme Constitutional Court of Egypt, Adly Mansour, was declared Acting President. The military had warned 48 hours earlier that it would intervene to restore order and impose its own roadmap on the country.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

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Friday, July 3, 2015

17

Nigerians’ obsession with titles NWABUEZE AKABOGU

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title is a recognition for achievements in any collectivity; and it could be traditional, academic, religious, socioeconomic cum political. Throughout the human history however, individuals that had contributed immensely towards the development of society in different fields of human endeavours were duly honoured with one form of title or the other.

In contemporary society, however, people that have distinguished themselves in areas such as scientific discoveries or have contributed towards attainment of world peace have been equally honoured by certain recognized world bodies, organizations, or countries..

Many eminent personalities across the globe have been bestowed with the prestigious “Noble Prize” instituted by the famous Swedish industrialist, Alfred Benhard Nobel for their immense contributions to development in say, sciences, literature, economics, polities etc.

In the same vein, the erstwhile imperial powers like Great Britain, France, Spain etc, equally recognized and honoured great achievers within their domains with knighthood. The modern church also instituted its own knighthood to honour their worthy members. Equally, many Nigerian communities honour their eminent citizens who have contributed immensely towards their socioeconomic development with traditional chief-

taincy titles.

It is, however, a sad commentary that in recent times, many highly placed Nigerians seem to be obsessed with the mundane acquisition of titles as a status symbol, thus making a mockery of the highly prestigious and revered titles in our society. It is equally regrettable, that these days, one could observe with utter dismay and disgust the mad rush by many notable personalities to acquire many titles and love to be addressed as, for Professor Chief, Sir, Rev. Prince, or Dr, Chief (Mrs.), and so on and so forth.

Members of the National Assembly are not left out in this bizarre pursuit of recognition and relevance hence, our ex distinguished senators wish to be recognized and addressed as “Senator” long after they had relinquished their seats in the hallowed upper Red Chamber. Similarly, former members of the House of Representatives still parade themselves as “Honourable” long after they had vacated their seats in the hallowed lower Green Chambers.

Unfortunately, the mad rush for titles by Nigerians tend to diminish the value and respect normally attached to our honours, which in recent years have been terribly basterdized, where certain charlatans were often recognized by the Nigerian state with the highly prestigious honours such as OON, OFR, CFR, MFR, etc. as an annual rituals in the country.

This rather unfortunate situation has already created the negative impression in the minds of many Nigerians that only those with the right “contacts” or “connections” are so rec-

THE MAD RUSH FOR TITLES BY NIGERIANS TEND TO DIMINISH THE VALUE AND RESPECT NORMALLY ATTACHED TO OUR HONOURS ognized and honoured, thus discouraging patriotic, honest, and hardworking citizens from giving their very best and loyalty to the nation.

It is instructive to mention in this disquisition, however, that in developed societies of the world ex senators and former members of the House of the Representatives, in the U.S for example, upon vacating their seats in Congress immediately relinquish their titles as “Senator” or “Congressman” or “Congresswomen” titles and automatically revert to their former status and addressed simply as “Mr.” or “Mrs”. Similarly, in the United Kingdom as soon as a person ceases to be a member of the British Parliament (House of Commons) such a person automatically relinquishes his or her title as an MP (Member of Parliament).

It is a matter of deep regret that members of the political class in Nigeria are the worst offenders in the exhibition of sheer egotism and always seeking for relevance by their continuous clinging to the title, “Senator” or “Hon” long after they had vacated their seats in parlia-

ment. This crave for the primordial acquisition of titles in society is obviously responsible for the current level of unbridled corruption in all the facets of our national life, hence it has become the norm that a person’s recognition in society is based largely on the amount of wealth and titles he/she is able to accumulate.

This ugly situation certainly portends great danger for our society as it has serious negative implications on the psyche of the younger generations, who might be inclined to imbibing the negative culture as the accepted norm.

It is equally regrettable that members of the Nigerian armed forces seem to be caught up in the web of the mad rush for titles and relevance hence the retired officers still retain their ranks and always love to be addressed as “General” “Brigadier General” or “Colonels” etc long after leaving the military service.

Again, in civilized nations of the world, military officers after their retirement from active service to their nations are immediately re-integrated into the society as civilians and addressed simply as “Mr.” having dropped their military ranks or titles on retirement. It is heartwarming and a positive development to observe that former President Olusegun Obasanjo and most recently the incumbent President Muhammadu Buhari have already set the pace for others by relinquishing their military ranks or titles as “Generals” and opted to be addressed simply as “Chief” or “Mr.” Nze Akabogu (JP), a public affairs analyst, wrote from Enugwu- Ukwu, Anambra State via nzenwabuezeakabogu@yahoo.com

Protecting our airports from insurgents

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oko Haram has made it its business to threaten the most basic of our human rights, particularly the right to life and freedom of movement. It has succeeded in turning some parts of the country into a no go area. The Nigerian civil aviation industry has since its inception been dedicated to safe guarding passengers, crews and staff of their industry. The extraordinary good safety record against Boko Haram in the nation’s airports has helped to make air travel a phenomenally successful mode of transport to date. There seems to be an inescapable moral obligation on both the industry players and the Federal Government to cooperate in taking all possible measures to protect passengers and workers against the dreaded Islamic sect.

The time has come for the major aviation stakeholders to create effective aviation security systems that are impenetrable

by Boko Haram. The world will not never forget how Al-Qaeda exploited the vulnerability of the US aviation security systems to carry out the disgusting 9/11 suicide hijackers, the most deadliest and horrific lethal acts of terrorism in history. We will be making a big mistake to believe that such an incident will be a one off thing.

Considering various lessons drawn so far, it should be noted that airports still remain one of the most attractive targets for Boko Haram or terrorist groups in general and thus should seriously be guided to avoid a repeat of the US experience.

Boko Haram enjoys the spotlight mainly when they struck at the heart of our economy. As an early warning precaution and

IF A MINOR COULD BREACH AVIATION SECURITY CONFIGURATION UNNOTICED FROM

BENIN TO LAGOS, BOKO HARAM COULD APPLY SIMILAR TACTICS SUCCESSFULLY mitigation response, the sect will like to prove to itself and our multilateral allies that it could turn airlines into equivalent of missiles capable of killing thousands like the Al-Qaeda in the future. Suicide hijacking strategies might enable the sect carry its Jihad war into the aircrafts, believe that could enable it kill thousands of people.

Prior to the 9/11, new terrorism had shown interests on civil aviation as both a method and target. For example, the role of Ramzi Youssef, a bomb maker linked to the Al-Qaeda who intended to bomb Philippines airline in midair. In another development Al-Qaeda was also closely connected to causing an explosion at Los Angeles International Airport during the millennium celebration. The 1988 Kuwait airline hijack demonstrated a ruthless part of terrorist’s die hard attitude. Therefore, we should not wait for the sect to take the aviation security apparatus by surprise.

For an effective aviation security system that could permanently deter Boko Haram and be ahead it now and in future, the FG,

stakeholders and the private airline owners should equip staff in this sector with extra training in anti-hijacking measures.

It is only fools that tend to learn from experience, the wise prefer to learn from others’ experience.

If our aviation security is caught napping after the 9/11 experience due to corruption and quest for individual glory that have marred our airports, I am 100 percent sure that we will have ourselves to blame inthe long run. We should desist from the syndrome of waking up when damages have already occurred as oppose to preventing and putting mechanism in place that sustain the maxim that says: “Prevention is better than cure”. Our aviation security should already be anticipating strategies Boko Haram is likely to apply to breach the security system already in place in order to be ahead of it. This is where threat assessment becomes handy. The terrorists are likely to use the moments, methods of sabotage and suicide hijacking to create further economic set back and mass killing through hijacking of planes within the Nigerian air space.

Effective measures to keep the sect and its affiliates from penetrating the nation’s aviation security systems are required.

And this can be achieved through an effective denial of the opportunity for the insurgents to get on board in the first place.

It is, therefore, very necessary to carry out rigorous and thorough screening at boarding gates in both our domestic and international flights so that Boko Haram members do not get on board.

The modern electric fencing should be in

Counter-terrorism Tips With

Ethelbert Oney ethelbertoney@zissltd.com, 08029929121 (sms only) use in all airport surroundings, including the run ways areas; CCTV cameras should be monitored 24/7 and manned guarding should be visible at all times to avoid unwarranted intrusion. If a minor could breach aviation security configuration unnoticed from Benin to Lagos, Boko Haram could apply similar tactics successfully in order to hurt us once again.

Also the introduction of Ultra Wide Band (UWB) and Electro Magnetic Pulse (EMP) in our airports is now an inevitable necessity. The use of UWB will detect suicide bombers, vehicle or any kind of explosive irrespective of where it may be hidden, whilst the EMP automatically neutralises it immediately.

It must be noted that the current statistics of hit and run by the sect should not be seen as game over by any standard. That will be dangerously misleading and an act of complacency.

Send your views by mail or sms to PMB 10001, Ikoyi, or our Email: mail@ nationalmirroronline.net mirrorlagos@ yahoo.com or 08164966858 (SMS only). The Editor reserves the right to edit and reject views or photographs.

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On financial bailout for states

A A new approach to holy pilgrimage

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ilgrimage to Jerusalem has always been for religious purpose, but recently in a bid to maximise the benefits of the exercise, the National Christian Pilgrims Commission entered into a partnership with the Isreali government to establish an exchange programme that will focus on robust agricultural production and farm practices.

The activities of the Ogun State Pilgrims Welfare Board in capitalising on this partnership is worthy of commendation. The board has included week-long empowerment training for youth in the July 2015 pilgrimage programme. The programme will include intense training on agriculture, agroallied management and other relevant skills. At the end of training they will be issued a training certificate by the Hebrews University, which will conduct the training.

Aside the primary benefits of moral and spiritual rejuvenation which the pilgrimage offers, this exercise will make the youths selfreliant and economically independent; it will also empower them to contribute their own quota to the diversification and improvement of the economic base of Ogun State in particular, and Nigeria as a whole. I will like to crave the indulgence of well spirited individuals and organisation to support the Board by sponsoring more youths to this pilgrimage as a means of contributing their quota to the development of the state.

Temiday Oluwatosin Laderin, Oke Mosan Abeokuta, Ogun State

rguments have been raging in the media on whether the Federal Government should come to the aid of the financially distressed states or not.

It is obvious that majority of the 36 states in the country are in financial mess. At least, three quarters of the states are owing arrears of workers’ salaries up to five or more months. How these states found themselves in this quagmire is a conjecture because it is clear that the Federal Government does not owe the states their statutory allocations. This was emphasized

Joined together by the street hawking.

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Letters to the Editor

Nigerians and the way forward.

The non-payment of workers’ salary had thrown the economy off balance, particularly in many civil servants states nationwide. It is a known fact that the money in circulation is determined majorly by prompt payment of workers’ salary. Invariably, non-payment of workers’ salary at the moment has led to less money in circulation, with concomitant low purchasing power, and reduction in sales and services.

Secondly, it has brought untold hardship on workers and

PHOTO:ADEMOLA AKINLABI

Is this the change we asked for?

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he All Progressives Congress (APC) government at the centre has started the governance of the country on a wobbling note with infighting over power at the National Assembly at state legislature, complaints of no money to pay workers salaries, etc.

Are the raging feuds over public interest, party interest or individuals’ interest? It is obvious the APC’s national leadership is attempting to execute a policy of imposition to

FG, save our textile, furniture industries

he only explanation so far given by the Nigerian Customs Service for the Federal Government lifting the ban on fabrics and furniture imports is that ‘textile and furniture have become dutiable as both commodities have been removed from the Import Prohibition list’.

Assistant Comptroller General Victor Gbemudu, representing Zone A, reportedly said this.

What the Comptroller did not say is why the Common External Tariff (CET) had to be removed in the face of the dwindling for-

by the former minister of finance and coordinating minister for the economy, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo Iweala and confirmed by President Muhammadu Buhari.

Many commentators had queried the constitutionality of the bailout, while some have blamed the governors for misapplication and misappropriation of funds amongst other misdemeanor.

This class is against the bail out for the state. Nonetheless, my focus is on the effects of the financial distress, particularly the nonpayment of workers’ salaries on

tunes of our textile industry.

If Nigerians keep importing common items like furniture, which are in great supply, but at cheap prices in Edo State; if they keep importing fabrics as against our ankara, buba and sokoto, wouldn’t that further depress our economy? What is 35 percent import duty to Nigeria compared to the huge gains that translates to a robust GDP? Bob MajiriOghene Etemiku, Africa Network for Environment and Economic Justice (ANEEJ), Benin City, Edo State

fill the principal officers vacancies at NASS and even the state houses of assembly across the country. Is that right? Is that how democracy should be practised? Is that how the change we are expecting would come? What is the difference between what is happening in APC now and what happened in PDP in the past?

One thing that APC leaders must know is that Nigerians are no more fools, Nigerians are ready to ask questions and insist of getting the expected answers; Nigerians are ready to fight for their right; and Nigerians cannot allow any person or group of persons to manipulate them anymore. Nigerians are now ready to bring the change they want even if their leaders are not willing to comply.

However, those who are thinking that they can still run the affairs of this country as a family business or the church, in order to suit their personal plans should better wake up and have a rethink. The governors, who promised their people heaven and earth during the campaign should stop complaining of no money and

begin to fulfill their promises. The complaint of no money is not part of the promises they made to the electorate.

President Muhammadu Buhari should know that whatever goes wrong anywhere in the country, he is answerable, just as it happened during Dr. Goodluck Jonathan administration, therefore, he should not just keep quite on issues that happen in the states; he devise a means of calling the governors to order whenever they beginning to veer off the path of honour and responsible governance. The President should also know that his predecessor lost out in the battle for Aso Rock tenancy during the last presidential election partly due to the inability of the governors of some states to pay the salaries and allowances of their workers.

Therefore, Mr. President should know that the problems of state governors are also his problems, most especially, when it comes to non-payment of workers’ salaries and allowances. The imperative to assist the governors to perform is thus strong. .

Awunah Pius Terwase, Mpape, Abuja (08179289948)

their dependants. In many states, churches, mosques, NGOs, and individual have been contributing food items, clothing materials, household items for distribution to the workers as if they are refugees. There is no doubt that the nation will bear the brunt of nonpayment of workers’ salary. This is because where the workforce is not taken good care of, it will not work to the maximum capacity and that will have adverse effect on nation’s growth. Incessant strikes in hospitals have had unpleasant effects on health delivery.

In actual fact, it can subject the nation to ridicule in view of the fast resources at her disposal. The fact is that cash crunch in the states is affecting citizenry adversely and the earlier the federal government comes in the better.

Nigerians are resilient people and our governments have been taken good advantage of this fact.

Nonetheless, they are implored not to take their luck too far. President Buhari has a great role to play to resolve the conundrum. Nigerians bought his change mantra because they were fed up with inept leadership of his predecessor sustained by deceit. That was why he was voted into power after years of toiling, irrespective of the campaign of calumny embarked upon by the ancien regime and its supporters. They have handed over their destinies unto his hands in the next four years. Therefore, how the nation got to this mess is immaterial at the moment.

It was evident that the nation’s economy had been grounded by the immediate past administration irrespective of the deceit of Nigeria been the largest economy in Africa. That was why change was imminent and this we have gotten. Consequently, what is imperative is the amelioration of the effects of the hard times on Nigerians. This is the only way to show that the change is real. My position is that the federal government should bail out the state and this should not be grants. An arrangement should be made with commercial banks to lend the states money with Federal Government as guarantor.

The states should find means of paying back the loans after getting out of this mess. This is the context in which I will like PMB to look into the issue of bailout.

Federal government should bail the states, while the probe of the financial activities of the three tiers of government should go on parri-passu to unravel how we got into this mess.

Adewuyi Adegbite, Apake, Ogbomoso, Oyo State.

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Adichie encourAged AfricAn pArents to teAch their children their indigenous lAnguAge And inculcAte

AfricAn culture, trAditions And vAlues in them

WEEKEND STARTERS

Crown Troupe performs at Terra

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agos based cultural group, Crown Troupe will be ending their 19 years of existence this Sunday, the 5th of July 2015 with Wole Soyinka’s Kongi’s Harvest. The play is directed by Segun Adefila, who is the founder of the exclusive troupe. The venue is at Terra Kulture Victoria Island and the event starts by 3pm.

Arty Inside FCT P. 24-25

Dorothee Wenner at Goethe Institut

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ilm curator Dorothee Wenner is based in Berlin, where she works as a freelance filmmaker and writer/curator. Her documentaries often transgress borders of traditional genres, as she uses elements of feature filmmaking when working with protagonists.

In 2008, her theatrically released documentary “Peace Mission”, an insider perspective into the world of home movie production in Nollywood, won critical acclaim; in 2014 she directed “DramaConsult”, exploring German-Nigerian business relations. She is delegate for Africa and India of the Berlin International Film Festival Berlinale, as well as for the Dubai International Film Festival. She will be at Goethe Institut, today at 2pm.

A Nite with DJ Tony

J Crown troupe a Lagos based cultural group 300x201

Critics P. 22-23

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wo of the leading literary voices in Africa, Chimamanda Adichie and Binyavanga Wainaina, have lent their voices in condemning the scantiness of literary works written in indigenous African languages. The duo raised this alarm over what they termed the “dearth of literary works in African languages”, revealing that such attitude towards literary expression in African Languages could be seen as bleak, as the future of African language and culture in the continent maybe nearing extinction.

Friday Flavour gathered that Adichie and Wainaina, who were both facilitators at the Nigerian Breweries/Farafina Creative Writing Workshop (CWW) which was held at Oriental Hotels, Victoria Island, Lagos aired their views recently during this year’s Literary Evening with Chimamanda Adichie which was part of the events that marked this year’s workshop.

Adichie encouraged African parents to teach their children their indigenous language and inculcate African cul-

ture, traditions and values in them. “My dream for this workshop is to create a pan-African platform for Nigerians to live up their dream. This year, the CCW was open to everybody irrespective of the age. We have over 1500 entries every year, but we just select 25 people. The write-up of the 25 people selected this year was indeed spectacular. Writing workshops don’t teach you how to write, but they give you validation, spurs you wanting to go out to do better.” While speaking on the workshop, Adichie revealed that the participants were chosen because of their ability to tell African stories and added that there were other applicants who couldn’t make it even though their stories were good. According to Adichie, “you don’t have to be beautiful to get into this workshop, but you need to tell the African stories. I advise our parents to allow their children to read wide, not test books. Instead of buying your children two pairs of shoes, buy them one pair and buy them books. Poor reading culture is one problem we have in Africa, but when parents do this, they are building a future for their children. I’m indeed happy that Nigeria has a generation that knows that their stories are really valid and they can

na Trust and sponsored by Nigerian Breweries Plc. As a socially responsible company, Nigerian Breweries remains committed to winning with Nigeria by championing causes that add value to the society. When Nigerian Breweries began this partnership with Farafina Trust to sponsor the Creative Writers Workshop seven years ago, this partnership was founded on our company’s desire to encourage the development of literary writing skills in Nigeria, as part of our strategic corporate initiative for talent development and youth empowerment in Nigeria.

He further explained that “the CCW has become a major item in our Corporate Social responsibility calendar. Through this platform, driven by Chimamanda Adichie, Nigeria’s award winning writer and Director of Farafina Trust, Nigerian Breweries and Farafina Trust have helped to discover and nurture literary skills in Nigeria”.

He also acknowledged the efforts of the facilitators for this year; Chimamanda, Aslak Sira Myhre and Binyavanga who have been part of the literary workshop since its inception in 2009. He said, “It is our collective hope that the writers chosen for the workshop this year will have the potential to become future best sellers in literature as they make a commitment to the lessons learnt during the workshop”.

oin DJ Tony and other exclusive guests this Saturday, the 4th of July 2015 for a night full of fun and music. DJ Tony, in charge of the music would give you wonderful beats to dance to. The venue is MVP Lagos, off Admiralty Way, Lekki, Lagos state.

Wenner

Mirror Mongers P. 26

Destiny isiguzo

Binyavanga

share it through writing.”

Wainaina, who also trod Adichie’s part in lending his voice over the decline of literary engagements in African languages, however said the workshop is improving with the kind commitment and talents they encountered in this year’s edition of the workshop. He said: “the same sense of commitment you see in the young women was also seen in the young men who participated in this year’s edition of the Nigerian Breweries/Farafina Creative Writing Workshop. It’s indeed a beautiful generation of writers.”

Friday Flavour gathered that over 1, 500 writers across Africa applied for this year’s workshop and only 25 of the applicants were chosen to participate and were given certificates of participation by the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Nigerian Breweries, Nicolass Vervelde. Most of the finalists were Nigerian and Kenyan writers from different non-literary fields.

Vervelde, who earlier, showed his pleasure over his association with participates at the workshop, reiterated that the initiative has helped to foster African talents in the area or creative writing. He said: “it is always a great pleasure for me to join this gathering of distinguished men and women of letters which brings to an end our annual Creative Writing Workshop organized by Farafi-

News P. 32, 33

16 PAGES OF ARTS, REVIEWS, LIFESTYLE AND BUZZ TO START YOUR WEEKEND

‘Books in African languages face extinction’

Adichie

19

Artman In The House

20

Friday, June 26, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Nollywood witnessing

Okey Bakassi, makes jokes out of everything in sight which is why his teeming fans see humour as his second skin. He shares facts about his film career, life in politics and family in this interview with NGOZI EMEDOLIBE. Excerpts.

Okey Bakassi

H

ow has your relationship with the Ohakim been since two of you left office?

The relationship has been cordial. He is my boss. I remain eternally grateful to him. It’s a pity Imo state people criticise him, but those of us who worked closely with him understand how intelligent he is. He meant well.

Did you plan to be in politics before working with Ikedi Ohakim?

It was not planned. It was at forum, and I made my own humble submission and there and then, the Governor, said since I was from Imo State that I should join the government. It was both rewarding and challenging. It also availed me the opportunity to offer public service and for the first time, I worked for government, reported to people, followed protocol, and took the blame for things I did not even do.

What’s your impression of politics in Nigeria?

The most corrupt people in Nigeria today are not the politicians but the civil servants. Politics made me stronger. It was a new experience: challenging as it was rewarding. It opened up a whole new world I never knew existed. You know how other people would sit back and assume whatever we can about politics and governance and politicians. It made me

see public service in a different light.

People get the kind government they deserve. If the government is bad in Nigeria, the people decided to elect the bad government. People always shy away from talking about their contributions to the act of governance.

The most a governor can do is eight years in government and he is gone. But the civil servants are there forever. They are the ones who corrupt the system. The permanent secretaries are always there.

The directors would never wish to go on transfer. You would see a director in the Ministry of Lands; owning more property than any governor. If he is asked to vacate that seat, the governor that removed him becomes bad. The civil service law makes it difficult to fire them even when they are incompetent.

How did you affect entertainment in Imo State?

The records are there. In the two years or so that I spent, there were changes in Imo State as far as the entertainment sector is concerned. Before I got in, the office was not in existence. My role at a time was to be the eye of the government in the entertainment sector, to be able to contribute meaningfully when issues about the sector are raised. You know that the entertainment industry has provided huge labour for the youth. In Imo, we have a huge base of youths looking for

the platform to express themselves. We started ‘Ichu Afo’, which is the biggest annual concert till date in Imo State. Talented acts come there to get discovered.

Within the period, I also was able to build the bridge between the existing Actors Guild in the state and the government.

I also made going to the Government House easier for a lot of entertainment bodies. My colleagues will testify to this.

Has it been easy adjusting after all these years outside the entertainment industry?

It was not easy at all. Being away for three years was not easy. You know in Nigeria, we are fast-paced. If not for the reservoir of talent and goodwill, it would not have been easy. But to God be the glory, after the initial hiccup, I am back and stronger. Since this year, I have not rested. I have been on tours around Africa and Europe.

How do you feel returning to Nollywood after politics?

It is great. Since then I have shot some very interesting films. One, Onye Ozi is still being talked about in movie cirecle around the world, despite it was shot in Igbo language.The film is arguably the best Nollywood-made movie in Igbo Language. Apart from the multinational cast and foreign crew, we had thorough professionals who served as the technical crew from Hollywood. The use of helicopter shots, the breathtaking locations and the use of sixty cameras by the director, Obi Emelonye in shooting some scenes are

When the brand, Okey bakassi started, We did all the things peOple are dOing

nOW.

i had laughter Fiesta. We even did the Canadian editiOn beFOre We rested it

With wife

some of the details that are still new to Nollywood.. The movie was shot in winter; it was really cold in London then, and you can imagine a newcomer in winter. It brought out what I would call the realism in the movie.

Are you impressed with the present state of things in Nollywood?

Yes, after the lull, things are picking up. At the moment, professionals are beginning to move in and honestly things are changing. We are experiencing what I would call a rebirth of the industry.

Acting, standup comedy and playing a comic in films which are you most comfortable with?

Honestly, I have had to do the three at different times, but I will tell you that I am most comfortable with the one that pays the bill at any particular point in time. I am not in the humour business for fame only.

Has being an engineer helped your career?

Yes. You know engineering and acting are creative professions. The designs in engineering come out of creativity. But the basic ingredient is education, which I got from that discipline.

Let’s get a bit personal. How long have you been married now?

I got married in 2001. I got married to my high school sweet heart. We met in 1988. At a point, we grew apart but when it was time to settle down, I gravitated towards her, because she loves me. They live in Canada and staying apart from them

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Artman In The House

Friday, July 3, 2015

21

re-birth –Okey Bakassi

With family

has been the most challenging part of my life. It hurts sometimes. But the motivating factor is the quest to give them a good life, the one I was not privileged to have.

But in all these, my wife has been very loving. That is why it is good to stay with your friend. It works but I won’t encourage anyone to experiment it.

How has your relationship with Shan George been after you reportedly broke her heart?

People refer to this as if she is the only person I ever knew in my life. I guess it is because she is in Nollywood. Let me say that we do not see, save from a few occasions we have run into each other at the airport. From what I read in the papers, she is doing well, and life has been good to me as well. We were never enemies and we will never be.

How did you get the stage name, Okey Bakassi?

My parents named me Okechukwu Anthony Onyegbule. But my friends know me as Okey Bakassi. I did not choose the ‘Bakassi’; my friends in the entertainment business did. The real name is Anthony. I was looking at a catchy and easy

name for my fans to pick irrespective of their tribe or wherever they are from.

That was how the coinage, Okey McAnthony came up. Okey, from Okechukwu; Anthony is my real name but I borrowed the ‘Mc’ from my University days and added it to the Anthony. That was how I came up with McAnthony.

How would you describe your background?

I’m the first son of five children. I was born on October 23, 1969 to Mr. Livinus Onyegbule, retired military personnel and my mother’s name is Felicia Onyegbule, a nurse. I had my primary education at Alvan Ikoku Demonstration School, Owerri and secondary education at, Mbaise Secondary School, also in Imo State. My University education was at the Rivers State University of Science and Technology (RSUST), Port Harcourt, where I studied agricultural engineering. I graduated in 1992 and did my National Youth Service in Lagos.

How long have you been in the comedy business?

Over 20 years.

Are you not thinking of having your

own show like other comedians?

When the brand, Okey Bakassi started, we did all the things people are doing now. I had Laughter Fiesta. We even did the Canadian edition before we rested it.

I’ve been here long enough to know that I want to do what I want to do and not because my colleagues are doing it.

What prompted your interest in the entertainment business?

It has always held special attraction for me. I started entertainment when I was in the university. I actually started in my days at Federal Government College, Port Harcourt but it became more prominent when I went into the University and joined a group, “Theatre Kolleagues” I was involved in stage plays and stand-up comedy plays. But those were the amateur days. We weren’t doing it to earn money; but for fun. After National Youth Service, I stayed back in Lagos. God led me to a popular movie producer and director, Zeb Ejiro, who in 1993 gave me my first opportunity to appear on a network television production, “Fortunes” wherein I played Nick, one of the Johnsons’ bodyguards. I featured in about 11 episodes of the soap opera before the home video industry took the centre stage.

Lagos could be challenging for newcomers. What challenges confronted you?

I started as a beginner; was a mobile squatter because I couldn’t afford to rent an apartment . At a point, I came close to living under the bridge. There was this particular night; I had nowhere to sleep, so I went to my friend who was living at Amuwo-Odofin at that time. I was on the street with no particular destination in mind; I didn’t know where to pass the night but after talking to his family members, I was told to stay. To me, it was one of the greatest favours, anybody did for me. They accommodated me for months.

The records are There. In The Two years or so ThaT I spenT, There were changes In Imo sTaTe as far as The enTerTaInmenT secTor Is concerned. Before I goT In, The offIce was noT In exIsTence. my role aT a TIme was To Be The eye of The governmenT In The enTerTaInmenT secTor, To Be aBle

To conTrIBuTe meanIngfully when Issues aBouT The secTor are raIsed.

On stage

When I was ready to go, they didn’t want me to leave. I moved into my one-room apartment at Palmgrove in 1996. It was from Palmgrove, I moved to Festac Town where I got a better apartment.

Was it lack of job that made you become a comic?

No way! I had offers but knew I wouldn’t have time to do my own thing if I took on any job.

Tell us how you got involved in politics?

I got into politics by accident. When I went into politics, the politicians saw another kind of person. They said they thought I was just a comedian. I was never involved in partisan politics. When I arrived government house as special adviser to the last governor, I started learning. My eyes opened to the challenges of governance. I realised it wasn’t proper to just sit down and criticise the government. I decided I could effect a change.

To do that, I had to go through a party that would select me as its candidate. It was at the stage of the primaries, I was removed.

Can you recount your journey into comedy?

Somebody came and said he wanted to do a musical video, Love Without Language. We went on set. It turned out to be more of a comedy movie. The success of that movie made them to shoot a sequel. It was so hilarious that when Nkem Owoh wanted to do Pam Pam Pam, he came looking for me. The movie was also successful that he also came looking for me when he shot Yogo Pam Pam. He followed it with Kiss me quick. In my early days in the industry, I didn’t do comedy.

It just happened that when the comedy movies came out, they sold very well and people started doing more of comedy.

That was how I started comedy movies.

22

Critics

MUSIC

Friday, July 3, 2015

Skales and Man of the year

Skales has proven with this album that he is a seasoned songwriter and recording artiste who can be a flagship act on any label. olawalE oluwadahuNsi

T

he 21-track album which was unsurprisingly missing any form of contribution from any of his former label mates or producers affiliated with EME opens up with an intro taken by D’banj’s brother-in-law, Dotun of Cool FM who opened the album sounding like Pastor Chris Okotie making an altar call, The Burna Boy featured, I’m a Winner is the first musical presentation, a celebratory record laced with snappy drums and a menacing bassline that had Skales singing “I don popular pass Jaja of Opobo / Dem go regret cos dem wan do me ojoro / Back then, dem call me olodo / Now na only me dey reign all arond Igboro”, going in at his detractors, naysayers and non believers with a quite appropriate opening song. South African producers Uhuru who have been getting quite some love in Nigeria with the features and production credits lend him their well coveted monotonous sound on the next song Lo Le an uptempo song which was tailor-made for the clubs. The Davido assisted Always which is already a fan favourite comes next, and is exactly what it was intended to be, a hit song for lovers that Skales will perform at weddings for time to come; the album makes a smooth

BOOK

transition to the next song Wonder which was inspired by Femi Kuti, produced by Jay Pizzle and featured Mavin Records act Reekado Banks, it’s another song that celebrates his rise from nothing to something , melodious and catchy but is most likely the first song you may skip on the album. Skales has always toyed with Yoruba language to good results so it is no surprise that the next song Ijo Ayo which features YBNL head honcho Olamide is the climax of his experimentation with the language, the song which has a contemporary Fuji vibe was well executed and is definitely one of the standout songs on the project.

The album continues to Ko Ye Won, this one is a straight club song another one Deejays will have a field day with. He croons on the next song What’s Up, this one which has a Makossa feel will appeal to people who like Igbo Music and I think maybe Flavour, Kcee or Iyanya should be featured on a remix. Previously released single I’m For Real which samples the new resurgent galala sound, Skales once again has him showing his versatility, riding the beat effortlessly adding another hit song to his fast expanding list of chart toppers. Still showcasing his versatility he recruits Chocolate Citys Kenyan bombshell Victoria Kimani for the next song OMG, a steamy Dancehall banger you wouldn’t want to play around little children nevertheless it would make for a good after hours song grown folks can get freaky to. Skales once again caters to the Rap heads on the next track Swagger Man

Skales which features Ice Prince and Phyno, though all three of them rapped the best they could. Skales had the fiercest verse and it’s one of the forgettable songs on the album. Phyno sounded like he recorded his verse in outer space, and the collaboration sounded like an obligatory one as opposed to a natural synergy. The motivational No Condition delivers a message of hope to everybody at the

Living with Afrobeat

Seun Kuti: Inside Kalakuta and Within Afrobeat, sheds light on the life of the Afrobeat prince.

Ngozi EmEdolibE

N

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

igerian book shelves seem to be suffering from the lack of researched materials on the entertainment industry. And this is an ugly situation which should be stemmed forthwith, if the future generation would have anything to rely on for historical purposes. This is where the book, Seun Kuti: Inside Kalakuta and Within Afrobeat, a 244 page book authored

by Uzor Ngoladi is well-suited having picked on one of Nigeria’s most impressive young men in music.

The book whose foreword was written

by Sandra izsadore, one of late Fela Kuti’s closest professional allies is an expository narrative about the life of Seun Kuti, and the several people and things that have influenced his thinking and advocacy. It opens with an inkling into the life obtainable in the strange nation called Kalakuta Republic as the author narrates his first experiences as he sets out to do this story.

The drama he portrayed in telling this story will obviously intrigue his readers who are by this action allowed to share in his emotions. According to him, after several attempts, delayed by Seun Kuti’s incessant foreign trips, he was able to pin him down following an appointment that took him to his place of abode in Ikeja, Lagos.

But on that fateful day, he met Najite, who posed a great challenge to him in a manner he did not find funny. From the narrative about how Najite Kuti, one of Fela’s

i n g wives, who made the encounter miserable for him, without knowing the import of what she was doing. The readers will discern that amongst the ‘Kalakutans’, life is unconventional.

The idea to offer space to Sandar Izsadore also makes this work tick. Many works had previously quoted Fela Kuti as admitting that two women-Funmilayo Kuti, his mother and Sandra Smith Iszadore mattered most in his life. Getting a person who touched the life of the late afrobeat king to pen a few pages of this work is highly commendable.

For readers meaning to know Seun Kuti wand what drives him, this book is an additional essential as it also unearths not only his professional life but also his private life. For what the instance, Seun Kuti, does not see afroSeun Kuti money would help beat as a meal ticket but a political conhim solve. This is a clear sciousness to liberate the people from the indication that he is following the shackles of oppressive leaders. In many footsteps of his late father, whose life was of the pages, the books highlighted how he characterised by freedom fights against has turned down shows being bankrolled the oppressed people of Africa. by such leaders. According to the account, Particularly intriguing about this book Seun would not allow his managers to is the format the author also chose to preseven mention the amount of money being ent this work. In order not to adulterate offered in order not to be tempted, imaginfacts, he used interviews, where the rearticularly spondents’ comments are written verbatim. While this is commendable, it also intriguing about goes to stress that the author in spite of employing drama in doing this work, is this book is the keen on making facts sacred. Interestingly the various interviews conducted are format the author with people who are either friends with Seun or are his professional colleagues also chose to in the band. Particularly interesting are the interviews of his manager (who left Present this work

P

his family in England to be part of this advocacy called afrobeat) and Baba Ani (the oldest band member, who explained how he has been able to ‘descend low’ to follow a boy he watched grow from the cradle as his leader in a game he started long before he was born).

Another highpoint of this book is how it threw light on the Kutis and the HIV toga which has dogged the family for long.

While the late Minister of Health, Olukoye Ransome Kuti admitted that his brother Fela was killed by the infection, Seun Kuti in this book also attributed his mother’s death to complications arising from HIV. However, the book falls short on two fronts. Some of the pages are riddled with typographic errors, an obvious concern about the editing and the author also failed to interview Femi Kuti, whose comment is important in a work of this nature. In spite of this, one fact has been proven: Seun Kuti is a true son of Fela.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Critics

Friday, July 3, 2015

The album ends wiTh ‘i ForgeT’ which is a song oF hope and Forgiveness creaTed For his Fans bottom of the barrel of life, and if there is any artiste that can preach this message, it is definitely Skales. Fa Ra We Mi the next song samples Push The Feeling On (1992) which was originally performed by Scottish house music band The Nightcrawlers and has Skales going back to his rap roots, with impressive snap instrumental castigating his haters and assisted by Kenny Wonder who gave a good account of himself helping Skales to create a song Rap heads will gobble up. Happy is an extremely cheesy song and a poor attempt at making a pop hit, it sounds like a song he would have sold to an upcoming act and Your Body Hot ironically sounds like it should have been called “Happy” another highly forgettable pop song which comes next and though featured Artiste Attitude who put in a nice shift, the Kenny Wonder produced song did not sound organic. The “Ajegunle sound” makes another appearance on the next song Naughty a song someone like Daddy Fresh will be proud of, but at this point the Album begins to sound a bit redundant and repetitive, but the second single which was released to promote the project Je Kan Mo comes on and adds some gusto and excitement to the listening experience.

An ode to marathon inebriation Another Round is track 18, it was equipped with a nice hook and an infectious beat, but the lyrics are stereotypical party chants which have come to define his career over the last 3 years.

Turn You On Which features Capital Femi and Rotimi (Who just got signed by 50 Cent to G-Unit) is something for the grown and sexy folks, a well executed R&B ballad which sort of salvages the sound towards the end of the album, I cannot help but think Banky W was supposed to be on the song.

The album ends with I Forget which is a song of hope and forgiveness created for his day one fans to show them he can still make a decent Rap song, it was laced with heartfelt bars and a melancholic hook which did great job of consolidating the message on the song.

The song that single-handedly re-energized his career Shake Body is the bonus track on the Album, along with a remix, a French version which featured Cameroonian Pop Star Numerica who spiced it up appropriately for our Francophone brothers, and the French speaking world citizens who enjoy African music.

With this album he has finally earned his respect from his fans, music observers and his peers, he has dispelled any notion that he cannot be an A-List act and will definitely be costing some label heads at EME a query or maybe job loss. However this album could have been much better than it turned out to be, even though Skales had enough singles to push this project. The Album sounds more like a “Skales Greatest Hits” or “Best Of Skales” compilation, and the A&R direction was a bit lazy. The Cover was a bit dull, the title was lazy and the listening process gets tedious towards the end.

Nonetheless, Skales has proven with this album that not only is he a seasoned songwriter and recording artiste, he is a legitimate money maker who can be the flagship act on any Label and created a remarkable underdog comeback story that will be referenced for time to come in the Nigerian Entertainment landscape.

23

EXHIBITION

Boju Boju: Drama, metaphor of the mask Ayo Akinwande’s photography exhibition, Boju Boju, ended with obvious legacies.

IsIguzo DestIny

S

urprisingly, Ayo is a trained architect and this is why I agree with Plato that art is an imitation; and one sometimes can produce art through inspiration. Thus, the architect turned photographer is possessed with a creative muse which came to bear in the pictures exhibited.

The exhibition was an interesting one, with a lot of drama attached to it.

In fact, it was a “hide and seek” game as the artist hid the pictures in a make-shift gallery with multiple routes surrounding the gallery with just one leading to the main gallery. This made it easy for one to miss one’s way in trying to locate where the images where displayed.

It was indeed deceptive as the sound of voices which were producing a rhythmic oral traditional African songs backed with the rhythms of drums made most of the people followed the music in their bid to locate the main gallery but where misled. I couldn’t help but laugh aloud when Richard Slota, a white, from San Francisco, California told me that the artist “wanted him, to get lost”. It was dramatic; it worked because “Boju Boju” is a “hide and seek game”.

When I found the gallery, I saw picture installations of nude models with masks and other accessories collected from different African countries.

Ayo did very well in finding a suitable title for his exhibition. Mask is a metaphor of the hidden, duality, bipolarity etc. The fact that the naked models were all in mask stresses the notion of the duality of man. We see a similarity in message of the picture installations and the concern of Modernity as a theory which sees man as a lost being, groping and searching for essence and answers to issues that have perpetually eluded him. Humanity is seen as lost in the indecipherable troubled sea and is doomed once born. But it takes the individual to search for essence and if he beats fate to the “hide and seek game”, then good for him.

The pictures are true to reality and again expose the duality or deception of people in reality.

There seems to be a high connect and coherence between all the pictures. There is intrigue, deception and tension which usually characterize kingdoms, royalty and power. The images in the pictures are all connected and told a

story of royalty and power and was used to portray the issue “doubleness” of people in positions of authority. Again, they symbolize a search, the unraveling of the identity behind the mask; for instance, the picture “Tobalase” 3940(161x148)cm which means “the king has the final say” captured a naked masked king in the palace in a typical Benin mask and his wife (presumable), flanked by two nude masked orderlies or guards.

The picture as the title suggests, could be seen as a hidden authority; after all intrigues, the king’s mind will be unraveled and he has the final say. What is going on in the minds of his wife and the guards may be mystery as we know there is usually a rivalry between the King’s wives because of the quest for essence. Also, there are likely to be rivalries between the guards as their minds are covered with mask and whatever perception they have is hidden. “Olege 1” is 3456-(50x60) cm and “Moremi Ajasoro” 3435-(134x93) cm showed masked princesses or royal women in poses that suggest vanity and sexuality, with their agenda and identity hidden by the mask. The princesses were clad with ornaments and jewellery; which may be interpreted as lust for the ephemeral. We see a conversation between two masked chiefs in “Ere Egele” 3933-(105x72) cm, what

nde

a Ayo Akinw

i saw picTure insTallaTions oF nude models wiTh masks and oTher accessories collecTed From

aFrican counTries.

diFFerenT

they are discussing is masked and can be called Boju Boju. In the portrayal of raw power that surrounds the traditional community, Ayo was not chauvinistic in his expression, while the warriors wielding a sword is a male in “Omo- Akin II” 5424-(60X90)cm, it was a female in “OmoAkin I” 5429- (134X93)cm (Omo-akin means child of courage). The pictures had a powerful synergy and drove the message home.

The pictures were creative masterpieces with the connection of mask and nudity which made it very peculiar.

While the nudity may have helped in the narration, I feel it is false and out of place. If the artist claims to be telli n g a story influenced from the traditional Oro festival of the Yoruba community, he should have taken cognisance of the Yoruba perception of nudity. Nudity as used by the photographer is a discordant tune in the whole portrayal of Yoruba cosmology.

The photographer like many young artists imported a false perception into an art that portrayed Africa. These artists are concerned with the so called civilisation of pornography.

While I enjoyed the hide and seek game, I feel Ayo exaggerated it especially as it concerns the lighting of the gallery and the projection of clear pictures. In his attempt to portray Boju Boju, he told me that the faint pictures were deliberate in order to create an effect.

Well, it created the wrong effect as the pictures were not very clear due to the lighting of the place and the picture installations.

24

Inside FCT

Thursday, July 3, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

BVN: How queues affected banks MArcus FAtunMole

T

hough they all scout for customers through various means, many banks in the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, will not desire to face the mammoth crowds that thronged their premises over registration for Bank Verification Number, BVN, recently.

The BVN, introduced by the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, is a milestone initiative aimed at strengthening banking security in the nation.

BVN was launched by the CBN in February 2014 and anyone having account with banks in the country was expected to participate in the exercise. Not until few days ago when the deadline for the exercise for the programme was approaching, many residents in the FCT, like their compatriots across states of the federation, did not take the exercise serious.

Scheduled to end on June 30, residents thronged banking premises, with panicking customers seen more on Monday 29 and Tuesday 30 June. They occupied both within and outside the banks, causing disruption to services.

For instance, customers who came to the banks for other purposes than registration for the BVN did not have seat to sit on. The banking halls were stuffy and caused discomfort to both staff and customers. Private security guards labored endlessly to manage the crowd, in most cases to no avail. People made calls and engaged in other prohibited activities within the bank halls. The overwhelmed staff could do only a little to manage the situations.

Some of the banks visited by Inside FCT engaged more hands for the BVN registration. Increase in attendants only resulted in marginal increase in persons registered, as only one data capturing machine was available for the exercise in most of the banks.

Customers took turns, taking numbers to enable them register. Adewumi

Bank customers waiting to get their BVN

Kayode was at a bank in the FCT for two days. He was only able to register at 2:33pm of the second day he was given number on the queue.

He told our correspondent: “It is because I was not serious with it. I should really blame myself. I had thought there would be very few people when I got here.

I was shocked to see almost 150 customers struggling to register. I was given number by the security. I was 128th person to come on Monday. So, I could not be attended to until this afternoon, at exactly 2:33pm. It is really a lesson for me that I should always respond to things at the right time.”

There were many residents like Kayode who wasted the whole two days on the registration. Not all of them were lucky to eventually register. But, luckily for such people, the exercise has been extended till October by the nation’s apex bank.

Funny enough, some residents with relatively small cash in their accounts contemplated emptying their accounts with their Automated Teller Machine

cards, ATM, since they could not be registered. Grace Adikwu, a customer with one of the banks in the city told Inside FCT: “I was scared since I could not register. Since the CBN said any account that doesn’t have the BVN would not be allowed to operate, I thought I would withdraw the little cash I have in the account. I would rather lose an account than losing my hard-earned little cash.

She blamed poor sensitisation for the late rush. Her words: “People are blaming us that we didn’t come out on time to register. The question is that how many people are aware of the registration? I live in a village where there is no bank.

If not for my neighbor who told me, I would not have known. It is not good at all for government to believe that people

do not take it seriously. Many people in the country are not aware of it.”

However, another resident, Hamza Inuwa, suggested punishment for people who fail to do the registration.

“Nigerians are known to joke with realities. It is our character to wait till when something gets late before we do it. I wonder why people behave this way.

It is shocking to see the crowd in all the banks. Where have the people been all this while? I think the CBN should find a way of penalizing those who haven’t registered. That will serve as deterrent to others. But, how lucky they are, the CBN has extended the registration. Yet, I tell you, by October, you will still see people queuing at the banks for this exercise.

i had thought there Would be very feW people When i got here. i Was shocked to see almost 150 customers struggling to register.

Ramadan: Food vendors count losses in FCT Joel AJAyi

T

he Ramadan fasting, a yearly Muslim rite has been described as the most blessed period in the Islamic calendar. During the 30-day period, faithful Muslims are required to fast from morning till evening and most of those who observe the fast usually join their families and friends to break in the evening. In breaking the fast, strict adherence to Islamic purity is also required to be observed.

As Muslims continue to observe the Ramadan fast, in the Federal Capital Territory food vendors are lamenting low volume of business transactions, many fruit vendors are count blessing as this year’s Ramadan progresses.

Since the beginning of this year’s Ramadan, investigation by Inside FCT revealed

that, residents, especially the Muslim faithful on daily basis are trooping out in their numbers to the different fruit market in the city such as Farmers’ Market in Maitama, Area 10 Fruit Market, Wuse Market, Utako Market to mention but few for fruits.

A short trip round the markets by Inside FCT observed that, fruits such as pineapples, oranges, bananas, apples, water melon, strawberry, grapes etc. were displayed in array of beauty to attract the visitors unlike regular daily market, where products are scattered as many residents patronize them more.

One of the fruit vendor in the Area 2

market Sulieman Abubarkar, said for me Ramadan period happen to be my blessing period, we do have a very good sales; every time during the holy month of Ramadan is a special season when the sales of fruits and vegetables move faster.

“We have high patronage because people buy lots of fruits and vegetable to break their fast.

“The market for vegetables and fruits is very good during this season. You can see how people are coming to buy even in large quantity for their consumption.”

The chairman of the farmer’s market Maitama, Usman Mohammed, said Mus-

We have high patronage because people buy lots of fruits and vegetable to break their fast Bank customers waiting to get their BVN

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Inside FCT

Thursday, July 3, 2015

25

Celebrities give Dutse-Baupman new look

efforts to commemorate the World Environmental Day which was held on the 6th of June, targeted at giving celebrities an opportunity to contribute their quota towards championing the cause for safer environment through proper sanitation.

Expressing disappointment over the disappearance of the mandatory environmental sanitation exercise which normally held once in a month, he noted that the FCT would have been much neater, healthier and free of littered dirt if the sanitation exercise were to be ongoing.

He said: “we decided to bring in celebrities to be part of this in order to make impact in the environment. Everybody wants to associate with a celebrity and here we are doing all we can to ensure that when we leave here today, the residents of this community will know that indeed something positive happened to their environment.”

Excited about the cleanup, John Fashanu with a rake in gloved hands digging and gathering dirt into thrash nylons, he called on relevant authorities to revisit the suspended Abuja monthly sanitation with a view to keep the FCT clean.

“I am happy to be doing this here this morning, as you can see, we have our handle gloves, rakes and broom tools to ensure that we clean up all the horrible things in Abuja and when we do this, everybody will be very happy.”

Television personality, Rachel Bakam also elated to be part of the team of celebrities for the Dutse-bound cleaning programme said, “I felt the energy in what i did, when you do something good for the world and not just for yourself; for the sake of others and where you live in, you will feel good and would want to it more.”

Bakam vowing never to indiscriminately throw refuse on the bare ground again called on residents of the area to maintain and sustain a hygienic environment.

For Nollywood Diva, Dorathy Njemanze, it was like the day shouldn’t come to an end. With a microphone in a gloved hand and a work tool in another, she advised the residents to ensure they desist from treating the environment with little or no respect, adding that the environment was capable of expunging a community if not well maintained.

“We need to sensitise the grassroots on the importance of cleanliness, you would recall that the Ebola Virus cost us a lot as a nation so, we should not give room for unforeseen diseases that is why everybody should be carried along in this clean-up business.”

Founder charity platform, ‘Help One Foundation’ and Wazobia FM big wig, James Expensive, stressed that it was the duty and responsibility of every Nigerian to contribute to the cleanliness of their surroundings.

Expensive further used the medium to caution Nigerians who were in the habit of carelessly throwing refuse from the comfort of their car or boarded vehicles outside on the streets, to desist from such practices which he described as unacceptable.

Gospel crooner, Phil Roberts on his part, noted that the ‘Change’ mantra which has eaten into the country’s fabric should also reflect the way and manner to keep the environment healthy.

Appreciating the efforts of the celebrities in cleaning up the once smelly and dirty environment, the Head of Department on Environmental Issues, Bwari Area Council, Haruna Labara, told Inside FCT that the initiative would raise the consciousness of the residents of DutseBaupman in keeping their environment clean, safe and healthy.

Lending her voice, Miss Heritage Nigeria, Queen Benedicta Akpana, said the initiative was a laudable one and if sustained, would help curb the rate of diseases prevalent in the suburbs.

She pleaded with government to take the right steps in addressing the piling dirt on the roads saying “there is hardly a street you go to and you won’t find dirt piled up for those in charge to come clear off but most times these dirt end up staying there polluting the environment for a very long time.

“The season to start with is not one for dirt to stay unattended to, government should ensure that proper waste disposal mechanisms are put in place and residents on their part should be conscious of ensuring they also dispose of these wastes properly rather than just dump them anywhere. I love to see everywhere clean and sparkling, I wish and hope for g every other person would be just like me so that we can safe guard our health,” Akpana added.

Responding on behalf of the community, Chairman Bwari Area Council, Peter Yohanna noted that the exercise was worthy of emulation by all environment conscious individuals, organisations and even the government.

According to him, the area council under his watch had recruited internal waste assistants to help clean up the environment and further educate residents on proper waste management.

lim faithful patronise them more in this season because they need fruits to break their fast.

“We are making more profits this period, there is no doubt about that, I must tell you every fruit vendors knows this time different a time for more sales with more profits, if we have our way as fruit vendors, we may call for extension of Ramadan or better still make it six months in a year’s for fasting in order for us to get more sales time.

“One must eat balance diet during this season and fruits are essential,” he laughed.

But while the Muslims are hopeful for divine blessing in the Ramadan month and fruit vendor are counting their blessing, the food vendors are counting their losses day by the day. Due to the large number of Muslims who observe the fast, eating in the afternoon and early evening which ac-

cording to some of the food vendors are the peak sales period have reduced drastically and in some places cut in half.

Inside fct also, went around FCT and spoke to several food vendors, many of whom complained bitterly about the loss of revenue occasioned by the Ramadan fast.

As for Nneka Uju who operates a local food canteen popularly referred to as ‘Mama Put’ in Zone 4 said the fasting has dealt her a big blow.

“Most of my customers are Muslim and since the fasting began they only eat once and that is in the evening. They always break with their family so my business has been greatly affected,” “Our food sales have been cut below half since the Ramadan fasting began, we can’t even cook the quantity of the food we used to because we don’t want food to waste.

Most of our customers now eat once a day and they do that at home.”

The situation has also affected a Roasted yam seller who own a shop in zone 7 of the FCT Mrs. Chisom Ogbonna said the market did not make any appreciable sales.

“In the sun and even under the rain, more than half of my customers are fasting. When the fast first started, about half of my yam, plantains usually goes to waste before I start putting quantity of what I am sure of selling in a day,” she said.

At popular food canteen called ‘Iya Oyo’ at Wuye Area in the city, situation is the same, a canteen on a normal day where even, directors struggle to buy food experienced low patronage.

One food seller, Rashedat Lawal bemoaned the poor sale “The Ramadan period has really reduced our sales because on a normal day the shop is always filled up and people would be coming and going, but because of the season the rate at which our foods sell has reduced.”

Regina OtOkpa

S

aturdays are days when most people, especially government employees stay home to rest after a weeklong of activities. Before now, one Saturday in a month was dedicated to cleaning up the immediate environment to promote safety and healthy living but for some time now, no one seems to care about the environment, one of the most important aspects of society especially in the Federal Capital Territory.

Instantaneously, this gave rise to a stinking environment littered with refuse dumps here and there and smelly sewage systems that pollute the air both in major parts of the city and suburbs where the scenario is worse off.

Last Saturday however, a collection of big wigs in the entertainment industry took advantage of their influence as role models in influencing people to do the things they want them by cleaning up a segment of Dutse-Baupman, a community under the Bwari Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory, giving it a new and brighter look.

Not only was it a forum to sensitise the community on the need to ensure a clean and healthy environment, but it also proffered an opportunity for the Cleanup Ambassadors Organization to extend love and care to the elderly, disabled and less privileged with donations of free medical treatments, medicated glasses, crutches, food stuffs, mosquitoes’ nets and lots of other items in what was called Celebrity Cleanup, ‘Give Back To The Society That Made Us’, even as they made an entry into the 5ft sanitation card.

Kicking off from the famous Berger Junction, top celebrities including the PMAN Governor, Collins Adeyemi, John Fashanu, Dorothy Njemanze, Mike Omotosho, James Expensive, Mohammed Jammal aka ‘White Nigerian’ and a host of others including beauty queens, humbly came out dressed for the sanitation exercise in an environment most of them have never been to.

Chatting with Inside FCT, the Project Director Celebrity Clean-Up, Babalola Omoniyi, said the exercise was part of its

At Bwari Area Council

26

Mirror Mongers

Friday, July 3, 2015

BVN blues

Checking on Hon. Farouk

H

on. Lawan Farouk, the man fondly called Honourable Integrity, seems to be losing his groove after the allegations of bribery leveled against him by oil mogul, Femi Otedola. Although the matter is still in court and the Police authorities are still ‘looking for evidence to back up their prosecution’, the Honourable is gradually losing grip. Remember, he was part of an ad hoc committee constituted by the House to probe some misgivings in the Transportation sector during the 7th Assembly. But where is he in the scheme of things today? MM gathered that he actually won a re-election under the All Progressives Congress, but it is unusual that in all the hullaballoo that has characterised the activities in the House, a ‘whole Lawan Farouk’ could not be seen, heard or read. If you ask some of his followers, something is amiss.

xxx

D

o we say Nigerians are heaving a sigh of relief after the extension of the BNV registration deadline? That is what it seems for the crowd thronging many banks in a bid to have their biometric data captured as the process was getting set to end last Wednesday, before the postponement. For those, who care to know, the exercise was filled with some memories as well as gaffes.

MM gathered that in some places, people were ‘passing out’ (as in collapsing) as they waited for the snaking queue of customers to thin out. But was everyone a customer? A survey by MM points to the

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

fact that the arena also quickly turned to places where the crowds of unemployed youths gather to look for spouses. Yes, the buzz is that some people would be thanking their stars that there was really a time when BVN registration actually took place in Nigeria. Of course, it was also a haven for petty thieves. At a first generation bank (the exercise appeared more cumbersome at first generation banks) located at Ojodu, there were cases of pickpockets having a field day with the theft of phones and cash. Now if you have your peace and the BVN, that’s reason enough to give thanks.

Farouk

BET Awards and African acts

Cossy Orjiakor as marriage counselor

W

hen one is sick, he seeks a doctor, but if one has a marital issue, would you refer him or her to Cossy Orjiakor, the actress who is blazing a trail with her semi-nude photos? Well, that is the idea the actress has been trying to sell, according to MM sources. Barely one week after she showed remorse for the semi-nude photos she posted on Twitter, the actress said that she is documenting marriage tips for women who want to have a fulfilling relationship.

It is coming in the form of a book alright, but what Cossy is yet to divulge is if the tips would be all about using one’s body to maintain a healthy marriage or otherwise.

Qa

ONE-SECOND &

With

HON. YUSUF LASUN

Wizkid

Cossy

For people who would be wondering why Cossy is not married yet, she swore that it would not take her one week to get married any day she decides to.

Public outcry has followed recent reports that the National Assembly members will be getting almost N9bn as wardrobe allowance.

Deputy Speaker, Hon Yusuf Lasun, joins the debate:

You must have heard about the angst amongst African artistes, who are worried that BET Awards organisers have this untoward attitude of hosting their part of the event back stage. Yes tempers are rising and some of them are reacting.

Wizkid took to Twitter to air his opinion on how African artistes are treated at BET Awards, claiming he didn’t attend the pre-show and interviews. He has however been busted by US gossip site, ‘Baller Alert’, who claim Wizkid was actually on the red carpet and they inter-

d whooping What’s your take on the reporte National the of s ber mem for on remunerati Assembly? last three et me tell you this, for the 2015, the of on years with the excepti ly has emb Ass al ion budget of the Nat per2.67 ctly exa is t tha and been N150 billion I on. rati fede cent of the total budget of the is it say to this don’t know where people see people have 25 percent of the budget. And members 469 are re the t forgotten too tha h each of the of the National Assembly wit ld be paid wou t member with five aides tha ple talk peo n whe So, . from the N150 billion

L

viewed him.

This came to light this morning after a source who verified Wizkid’s claim to be untrue hinted Instablog9ja on Instagram.

If Balleralert’s claim is true, it would mean this will be the second time in recent times Wizkid has been caught lying on social media. The first being the time he said he woke up in Los Angeles, stating a time that didn’t correspond to the local time in LA as at that moment.

Friday, July 3, 2015 16 Ramadan, 1436

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

27

Call to Worship

On the authority of Anas bin Malik, the servant of the Messenger of Allah, the prophet said: “None of you [truly] believes until he wishes for his brother what he wishes for himself.”

RELATED BY BUKHARI AND MUSLIM

Let’s pray for our leaders –Barr. Ojei D elta State Council for Islamic Affairs (DSCIA) under the umbrella of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) has called for prayers for the leaders while urging the new administration in the state to learn from the mistakes of the past and work hard toward restoring the lost glory of the state.

The National Vice President-General, NSCIA, in the state, Barr. Isiaka Ojei, gave the advice after a chat with the Principal Officers of DSCIA, calling on Governor Okowa to be more active in developing the state as this will endear him more to the people.

“The Governor must be an aggressive

developer and shun domestic politics of the State as this is very diversionary.”

The body called on Muslims to pray for the success of the new government in this Holy month of Ramadan and for the Ummah to purge their hearts of every ungodliness, be more positive and progressive in their contributions.

‘Sustain virtues of Ramadan’

N

igerian Muslims have been advised to maximize the abundant rewards that comes with the month of Ramadan and sustain the many virtues taught by the holy month afterwards.

Giving the advice was a renowned security expert and chieftain of the All Progressives Congress, Amb. Abayomi Nurain Mumuni urged them to use the month to strengthen their relationship with Allah. Mumuni, who described Ramadan as a rare opportunity that is rife with Allah’s forgiveness, blessings

and emancipation from hell-fire, said that the month calls for serious engagement in rewardable acts of worship.

“Ramadan is all about fasting with sincerity to attain piety and the pleasure of our Lord. It is a college on its own where our faith and soul could be easily nurtured and filled with piety.”

The author of Global Terrorism and its Effects on Humanity stressed the need to live in peace with our neigbhours irrespective of their creeds, and extend hands of love and brotherhood to fellow brethren.

Mumuni also commended President Muhammadu Buhari for his pro-active steps at combating the menace of terrorism in the country, urging Nigerians to be patient with the President.

“Buhari is passionate about how he can turn Nigeria around on to the path of greatness and cares nothing about personal gains. He lives such a disciplined life of contentment that material acquisition means nothing to him. This is the first time we are having a true leader in every sense of the word.”

Leadership as Exemplary Conduct

A

uthority is a curb to the willful souls of men, Every leader, then, should put on the mantle of dignity, whether in town or country. Manifest your love of what is excellent, and of worthy people; show your hatred of corruption and corrupt people. Adorn your body, perfume your breath and make comely your apparel with the adornment that are permissible without imitation or reducing the treasure to bankruptcy. Do not deck yourself with gold, or silver, or valuminous silk for that is shameful, ignoble and improper. Sit cross-legged when you seat yourself, be still as far as you rare able and do not fidget even with your hand. Let your eyes be downcast though your looks be searching and your glances observant. Approach

Dr. Habeeb: The change Kogi needs 28

men with due courtesy. Do not open your mouth even in order to yawn. If the urge to yawn come to you utter the name of your Lord and it will pass from you. But if you have allowed the desire to overpower you then cover your mouth with the back of one of your hands.

The poet says:

Quoted from: Principles of Leadership According to the Founding Fathers of the Sokoto Caliphate

Collated and edited by Hamid Bobboyi with the Compliments of His Eminence Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar mni, CFR, LLD, Sultan of Sokoto

You can help restore good governance –Banire to Journalists 29

My sermons not controversial –Al-Ilory

T

he Mudir, Markaz Islamic and Arabic Centre, Lagos, Sheik Habeebullahi Adam Al-Ilory, has said contrary to speculations in some quarters, his preachings are not about controversies.

“They are about contemporary issues meant to shed light on matters that would be beneficial to the generality of Muslims and correct misconception about Islam.”

Al-Ilory said the clarification became necessary in view of a piece of advice given by an unnamed person that he should change the topic of his ongoing Ramadan Tafsir and move to another “controversial issue.”

He said, “There are differences between Tafsir and sermons. When you want to give sermon, you have to pick a specific topic. This may be a moral or religious topic. But in Tafsir, you talk about a wide range of issues. When you are doing Tafsir, your interpretation of the Quran will now be based on your knowledge and understanding of the Quran. Tafsir is all encompassing and more elaborate. You can talk about a wide range of issues when during Tafsir.

“If there is a misconception about Islam, it is our duty to correct it and tell our students.” On why he talked about the new government during his ongoing Tafsir, Al-Ilory said this was timely since a verse of the chapter of the Qur’an being treated talks about trust.

“When we talked about the government, it was not deliberate. But one of the verses talks about trust. I am not partisan but always exercise my voting right as a citizen of Nigeria. I don’t vote for party but for candidates,” he added.

Harnessing the blessings of Ramadhan (2) 29

28

Call to Worship

16 Ramadan, 1436 Friday, July 3, 2015

Dr. Habeeb: The change Kogi needs

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e is truly a quintessence of humility, an apostle of change, a revolutionary of our time and a highly-focused personality in administering people. Exceptional in diligently reshaping today for a brighter tomorrow while taking clue from the past. An ardent believer in training his subordinates and assigning them responsibilities through effective delegation for the creation of an incorruptible, efficient, resilient and responsive service system.

The name is as simple as the bearer himself. He is known, called and addressed as Dr. Habeeb. Born in Aiyegunle–Gbedde in Ijumu Local Government of Kogi State in 1957, he completed his early education at the then Kabba Divisional Joint Education Community School (KDJEC), AiyegunleGbedde in 1971. He proceeded to Baptist Secondary School, Iyah Gbedde. His immense talents became apparent within a very short time as he was promoted to form two merely after seven weeks in form one. His academic excellence was sustained as he led his class in almost all subjects throughout his four-year secondary school education. As an active sports student, he led the School First Eleven as Sports Captain in addition to his portfolio as Deputy Senior Prefect of the school. He was equally active in social and academic clubs and associations where he held commanding positions. When the result of West African School Certificate was released in 1977, it was not a surprise that he obtained Division One Distinction.

After completing his Cambridge Advanced Level, his academic exploit took him to Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria where he won Mobil Oil Scholarship after being nominated by the University as the best Economics student and successfully going through a competitive interview. He bagged First Class Degree in Economics in 1983 and an award as the best student in Economics. In quick succession, he obtained a Master of Science degree in Economics in 1986 and went ahead to cap it with Doctorate degree in Management Sciences at the University of Ilorin.

He also studied Banking and Finance in India through a scholarship of Special Commonwealth African Assistance Plan.

THE PLATFORM with

Sekinah

Lawal E-mail: sakinah207@yahoo.com t: 08055102994

This is indeed The all-round developmenTal change spiriT and agenT The people of

Kogi deserve!

He has attended several banking and finance courses in Nigeria and abroad including Harvard Business School.

The un-assuming Dr Habeeb started his post degree career as an NYSC Honourary Graduate Assistant at Ahmadu Bello University when the University Authority insisted that he be retained for his Youth Service. At the end of the service year, he was appointed Graduate Assistant. He later moved to University of Ilorin as a lecturer. He had worked with Nigerian Industrial Development Bank (now Bank of Industry), Urban Development Bank. He distinguished himself in the service of Urban Development Bank that he got various commendations from the Managing Director, who once wrote, “The Bank is proud of you and I encourage you to keep up the good work”.

His sojourn in First Bank of Nigeria plc has been memorable. He has won several awards in the Bank for outstanding performance where he has risen to the position of Deputy General Manager and acting Executive Director, Public Sector Group and Northern Directorate. His hard work and dedication to duty has earned him many good commendations that are too numerous to be listed. An important customer once told him that: ‘You are the best banker I have ever met’.

He has engaged in numerous community development and award programmes.

This pragmatic guru who moves with

time, full of life, a tireless fighter for the oppressed, a believer in a systemic economic improvement has received numerous professional training, both locally and internationally. His numerous awards to date attest to his credibility, standards setting ability, bench-marking and cutting-edge demeanour in leadership. He is on the board of a number of philanthropic and nongovernmental organisations as a National President, a Patron and Grand-Patron.

According to him, the truth is that we cannot all sit down to watch the state being underdeveloped. “It is a moral duty for me to come to the rescue and bring development to a state that has never witnessed development since its creation. My desire is to leave a landmark in the history of time. That is why I have to leave my lucrative job of banking to serve humanity. God has endowed me wth leadership and interlectual abilities which I should put to the service of humanity. My experiences of how many countries like Malaysia, Singapore and India developped will be brought to bear in developing Kogi State. Such service of massive human and socio-economic development for a whole state cannot be achieved by remaining on my banking job.

I have only God the Creator to fear. My focus is the transformation of Kogi State to a developed State that all Kogites will be proud of. I am resolute to achieve that.”

Dr. Yaqeen Abdullahi Habeeb stated: “I have a dream, I have a vision and there is a ray of light at the dark end of the tunnel as I offer myself to serve my people. I am your son and well acquainted with the sufferings and yearnings of our people. I believe that we must not allow our generation to be tagged a “wasted generation”. Now is

‘Let’s support Buhari to fight corruption’ HMVL set for Hajj 2015

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igerians have been urged to give all needed support to the new President in his fight against corruption.

In his goodwill message, the father of the day, Alhaji Musulim Onawale, Founder of Laurel School and Chairman BOT, Low-Cost Housing Estate urged Nigerians to support President

Muhammadu Buhari on good government and accountability.

At the lecture organised by Dawah Society of Nigeria in conjunction with Mus’hana Sisters at Dawah School, Iyana-Isheri Junction, Jakande Estate, OkeAfa, Lagos recently, the Chairman of the day, Barr. Toye Bamiduro also appealed to

all Muslims and nonMuslims to seek the good face of Allah in this holy month.

The CEO, Globaim Hajj, Lukman Ibidunni, also called on all citizen to support the new government so that they can take us to the promised land.

The lecturer, Sheikh Dhrikullahi tailored his lecture towards piety; the fear of Allah.

H

ajj Mabrur Ventures Limited, HMVL, has made it known that the Bbody is set for the 2015 Hajj while the fare has been fixed.

According to Alhaji Adewunmi, the Standard package is pegged at N1,250,000 with three weeks stay, standard accommodation and tent C, with four pilgrims in a room.

There is another Standard package of N1,350,000

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with 2 weeks stay in Saudi Arabia,,standard accommodation and tent C with four pilgrims in a room.

“There is also an Executive package of N1,600,000 per person with 2 weeks stay, standard accommodation and tent B with 4 in a room while the Premium Package goes for N1,900,000 with 2 weeks stay, 5-Star hotel and tent B with 3 in a room.”

Premium Package will be N2,700,000 with 2 weeks stay.

the time to make real the dividends of democracy. Now is the time to rise from the dark and desolate valley of servitude to the sun-lit path of prosperity and liberation.

Now is the time to lift our state from the quicksand of injustice to the solid rock of brotherhood. It would be fatal for the people of Kogi State to overlook the urgency of the moment. We all have a job to do - to save Kogi people from doldrums and give them hope and basic amenities to make life more meaningful. No one person can do it alone. It is a collective effort.

Suggestion boxes shall be introduced in every Local Government headquarters with constant town and city meetings to carry the grassroots along. If there is one thing I have learnt in this life, it is that when a people are propelled by a strong wills, anchored firmly on a vision and set goals, they will definitely succeed. Kogi State, with the right people in government, can serve as a model state in Nigeria. We do not have to look far away to find the people to make this happen. As I look up and see the array of distinguished Kogi sons and daughters active in all sectors of the economy, I feel energized and strengthened in my belief that we shall all collectively expel poverty, misery and squalor from the state.”

Presently Dr. Habeeb is the National Chairman of an International NGO, Humanity First which is engaged in lifesaving services to humanity. The Organisation has drilled boreholes in Lagos, Nasarawa, Kogi, Kwara, Osun, Niger and Borno States. Many people have regained their sights through the free eye surgery sponsored by the Organisation.

He currently runs scholarship schemes for primary and secondary schools in Aiyegunle Gbedde, where he awards 30 scholarship yearly (now for the sixth year) to primary, JSS and SSS and at Al-Azhar International College, Lokoja.

The appointment of Dr. Habeeb as the Special Assistant to the then Honourable Minister of Industry, Chief Kola Jamodu, MFR was his second national assignment.

He was called upon in 1994 to serve as the Resource Person to the Revenue Mobilization, Allocation and Fiscal Committee of the Constitutional Conference. He proved his mettle there that the Chairman of the Committee wrote to him stating: “Your contributions to the success of the committee in this national assignment are highly appreciated; …..It is hoped that you will respond with equal enthusiasm, dedication and consciousness any time in the future you are called upon to serve this country”.

A dynamic and successful banker he is, a philanthropist per excellence, a consistent and loyal member of APC, a grassroots mobilizer, a prudent manager of human and material resources, He is a man of high integrity, reputation, kind, decent, generous, receptive and an embodiment of humility.

This is indeed the all-round developmental change spirit and agent the people of Kogi deserve!

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Frequently asked questions (1)

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amadaan is an extraordinarily unique month where every Muslim is most conscious of his Lord with regards to all that is consumable. Ramadaan makes a Muslim abstains from lawful food and drinks. Of course, during or outside the month, one is forbidden to consume any unlawful food or drink according to Islaam.

The Islamic way of life includes what a Muslim eats and drinks.

Our society, today, has outgrown its rural setting that a Muslim at times finds it difficult to know the source of what he consumes. The dwindling faith has made some to give up any concern about the sources of food items. Whereas it has been foretold in the traditions of the Prophet (SAW) that one of imminent signs of the Hour is that people will eat haram. During his own time, he used to pray that: “Allahumma igninii bi halalika ‘an haramika... O Allah, suffice me with your halaal (lawful) from seeking your haraam (unlawful)” If he prayed like that then, I wonder how we should pray today! Many questions are often raised with regard to some animals and birds, whether we can eat them or not. There are others

having to do with the animals slaughtered by the Christians, unknown persons, electrocution, etc. These and many others, we shall examine in line with the basic sources of Islam and expositions of the erudite Jurists and Scholars of Islam.

What is the ruling for a Muslim who mistakenly consumes an haram food or drink; or is fed on it without his knowledge?

If it is by mistake, he is not guilty of consuming haram based on the Hadith of the Prophet (SAW) that Allah (SWT) overlooks for us what we commit by forgetfulness, error and compulsion. (“Verily, Allah has for my sake overlooked the mistake and forgetfulness of my community and what they are forced to do” (Ibn Majah & Bayhaqi). The same applies where he is fed on an haram without his knowledge. However, if he has not swallowed the food, he should spit it out and rinse his mouth. If he has swallowed it but can regurgitate and vomit it, he may do so because Abu Bakr (RA) did same when his attendant fed him on meat he got through divination. (Sayyid Muhammad Nuh, Aafatun`ala Tariq, Vol 1, p.17).

You can drink plenty water or dip

your finger in your throat so as to vomit it so long this will not cause you any harm.

If while you are eating the haram, you realise it, you should immediately stop and spit out the one in your mouth. If you swallow it thereafter, then you have committed the major sin of eating the haram. One major caution you need to observe in this regard (to safeguard your soul) is that you should watch where you eat and whose food or drink you accept. In a case where you know that some people in a particular place are known for cooking or selling haram food (e.g. pork or dog), if you go there and you are fed on it, then you have intentionally consumed what is haram, for you could have avoided the place.

The baseline, however, is that a Muslim should be conscious and cautious of what he eats. When you are not sure, what a particular food is made of, then you are to abstain from it. Otherwise, you might have consumed haram for lack of precaution.

What is the ruling of Islam if a diviner says that one should not eat a particular food?

Firstly, the authority to permit or prohibit a particular food or

L-R: Chairman, HEDA Resource Centre, Mr. Suraju Olanrewaju; National Legal Adviser of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Dr. Muiz Banire and President, Advocates of Peace Foundation, Ustaz Mustafa Jamiu Olasunkanmi, during the Iftar [Breaking of Fast] with Dr. Muiz Banire in Lagos recently.

You can help restore good governance –Banire to Journalists Sekinah L awaL

T

he National Legal Adviser of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Dr. Muiz Banire has called on media professionals most especially the Muslim practitioners, to help Nigerians end corruption and restore good governance.

He gave the charge in Lagos recently while breaking the fast with some of these media professionals.

According to him, media professionals occupy a very crucial

Call to Worship

Friday, July 3, 2015 16 Ramadan, 1436

position as the 4th Estate of the Realm in ensuring that issues of vital importance to the nation and citizens alike are kept on the front burner for the good of all.

He also called on President Muhammadu Buhari to appoint only credible Nigerians of impeccable characters as ministers in order for the party to deliver on its electoral promises.

“The current crisis rocking the party leadership, especially in the National Assembly would soon be over as the party has learnt its lesson from the un-

folding developments.”

“Only people who have lawful means of survival would bring about the desired change that Nigerians are yearning for. If all politicians could reason that life is ephemeral, they would not have been so desperate to attain any positions. The insatiable desire for position for posts and power will go because you are not even sure that you will wake up the next morning. So, what are you are desperate about?”

Banire said that we must start addressing the religious education of our children.

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IN HIS LIGHT with

USTAZ

A. ZAFARAN e-mail: zatabumuneeb@yahoo.com drink is vested in the hands of Allah (SWT) and Him alone. If you obey such diviner, he has become your god. The Prophet (SAW) has forbidden visits to the diviners and the like. (Sahih Muslim, Vol. 4, hadith NO.5532). The case is not however the same if a medical expert or somebody in a related field or any one who possesses such knowledge should recommend or disallow a particular food for health reason (s). This is because Islam is not against medication or prevention of diseases or ailment.

While the latter is acting on empirical knowledge devoid of any form of idolatry, the former is acting on conjecture or interaction with some diabolic forces.

Secondly, it is forbidden to go

to the diviners or oraclists. It is an act of disbelief to also believe in what they say. Hence, the ruling is very clear. It shows that one has spiritually degenerated and fallen short of Islamic knowledge. If not, one will readily know that going to them is haram, and whatever they say becomes null and void. As a Muslim, you should always turn to Allah (SWT) for guidance and assistance. Whatever the problem is, get up in the stillness of the night, observe two Rakahs and present your case to Allah (SWT). He will never leave you unattended to. The other thing you can also do is to seek the assistance of the specialists as long as it falls within the confines of Islam.

‘Appoint only people of integrity, competence’

T

he Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at, Nigeria has called on President Muhammadu Buhari and governors to appoint to political offices only people of integrity and competence.

In a five-point agenda set by the group and signed by the Amir, Dr. Mash’ud Fashola, it was stated that the points are based not on any human wisdom but on the injunctions of God the Wise and Lord of all Creation.

“Strive to eradicate hunger completely for all indigenes; this can only be achieved with aggressive and faithful agricultural development. It will also help create employment and check migration.”

“Appoint people who do not seek self interest but possess the

exceptional zeal, piety and capacity to serve humanity as well as ensure justice and fairplay such that every Nigerian has equal opportunity and right in all respects.”

“Allocate adequate budget to Police so that competent officers can be recruited, trained, equipped, and well-remunerated to ensure security of life and property as well as ensure equality before the law and that none is above the law so that we can effectively fight crime and corruption.

We humbly wish to warn that no worldly powers will be able to help us achieve progress or ward off God’s Wrath if we do not seek His Pleasure by checking all oppression and ensuring justice and charity to all.

Cleric preaches peaceful co-existence Saidat aLauSa

M

uslims have been enjoined to embrace peaceful co-existence

always.

Speaking on the theme, “Muslims: Persecutors or the Persecuted”, a Cleric from Lagos State University and guest lecturer at the 25th Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), Ogun State Muslim Community Ramadan Lecture, Prof. Ishaq Akintola, said Muslims should brace up to face challenges by ensuring that their grievances are made known in ways devoid of violence.

He called on government to allow rule of law to prevail as peace could only be possible under an atmosphere of justice.

He also encouraged the media to be objective, liberal, factual in their reportage and do away with any information that could cause acrimony within the society, most especially on religion.

The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Olusola Oyewole, represented by the university librarian, Dr. Mulikat Salaam, charged them to use the holy month of Ramadan to pray for the nation.

The Amir of FUNAAB Muslim community, Prof. Kehinde Okeleye, advised Muslim students to be good ambassadors of the university.

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Call to Worship

16 Ramadan, 1436 Friday, July 3, 2015

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Every Friday with

Khalifatul

Ahmadiyya

Harnessing the blessings of Ramadhan (2)

W

hen the enemy was completely defeated in the Battle of Badr and prominent and daring disbelievers were whipping their mounts to retreat from the frontline a woman was found fearlessly going around the battlefield. She would pick up any child she saw and then put it down.

The Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) said, this woman has lost her child. Mother love was so overwhelming that she had no fear of being in the middle of destruction filled battlefield and hugged every child she saw and then let go realising it was not hers. Eventually the woman found her child, she embraced him and with complete abandon sat down with him with no thought of the dangers around her or indeed the dead bodies and the fact that battle had not quite ceased. The Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) said, you see with such satisfaction she sat down once she found her child while beforehand she was extremely anxious. It is the same with God and His love for man. God is as grieved as the mother of the missing child when a person is lost due to his mistakes or sins. And when that person repents and returns to God, God is happier than the woman who found her lost child.

Our God is always ready to forgive providing we are also ready to be forgiven. Any negligence is on our part. God’s forgiveness covers the person who turns to God and seeks forgiveness for his sins. Hazrat Musleh Maud (may Allah be pleased with him) said not only God’s forgiveness covers one’s sins but it also forgets the sin/wrongdoing and makes people forget it too. This is why one of God’s name is Sattar (Coverer of faults). This Divine attribute signifies an intense quality to cover other’s faults. People can cover faults and sins of others but they cannot make people forget them whereas God can remove the memory of sins committed by people from the minds of others. If God was not Sattar man would not even have peace in Paradise.

Our God not only covers our faults He also effaces our sins and restores our respect. How much sacrifice should we be making to go to such a Loving God, to become His servant and indeed to run to Him! Satan waylays at every corner but we will contend with him and fail his every attack by coming into God’s refuge. Becoming a true servant of God will be truly availing the blessed month of Ramadan. It will benefit us on a personal as well as communal level. Progress of members of Jama’at translates into progress of Jama’at. We know that the Promised Messiah (on whom be peace) said his progress and triumph was through prayers. Thus we should turn to God and seek progress of our Jama’at and pray fervently during these days. We should not limit our prayers to ourselves and our near and dear ones. Rather we need to intensively wid-

en the scope of our prayers, then alone will we be paying the dues of being part of the Jama’at of the Promised Messiah (on whom be peace) and we should be grateful to the favour of God of including us in the Jama’at.

God has placed a huge responsibility on us as Ahmadis for which the Promised Messiah (on whom be peace) drew attention of his Jama’at to prayers. We are indeed humble and weak and acknowledge our incompetence. However, we are the people on whom God has placed the responsibility to attain a magnificent objective which is not possible without His grace.

In this regard Hazrat Musleh Maud (may Allah be pleased with him) said if we are in fact weak and the task assigned to us is very difficult then how can we do this task?

This task requires a lot of power to bring it to completion while we are weak. It will have to be acknowledged that either we are not that weak or this task is not as difficult as it is claimed. Or if both these statements are correct and we are weak and this task is difficult then it will have to be acknowledged that besides our efforts God has put other sources in place for the task to be completed. It is God Who is going to fulfil the objective and Islam Ahmadiyyat is going to triumph in any which way, there is no doubt whatsoever in this. And for the attainment of this God has taught us the means of prayer. Our task will not come to completion through our efforts alone although in obedience with God’s will we are ever ready for sacrifice. We pray to God that with His grace He helps us through His hidden sources which He has willed.

The fact is that God has made us the apparent source whereas the real source which will bring about triumph is something else.

However, we should have a certain heartfelt passion for the triumph if Islam which should manifest in the form of prayers. Hazrat Musleh Maud (may Allah be pleased with him) said an analogy of our situation can be drawn to when during the Battle of Badr the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) threw a handful of pebbles at the enemy but God stated that what followed was not due to his throwing pebbles rather it was from God that a fierce wind started which blew off millions of pebbles from the ground in the eyes of the disbelievers. That is, behind the handful of pebbles thrown by the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) was working God’s power. We too are like the pebbles of Badr, the pebbles which the fierce wind blew off blinding the disbelievers. We have to acknowledge that God has put other arrangements in place to bring about the triumph of Islam and those arrangements are prayers of God’s servants which attract God’s grace and turn the impossible into the possible. The Promised Messiah (on whom be peace) said indeed this is what our success depends upon.

Circuit President of Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat, Abuja,Dr.Abdulateef Busari (right), presenting computers to the Financial Secretary and other benefactors.

Second from right is Bro. Hassan Dindi, Alhaji Barr. Toye Bamiduro, Sheikh Dhkrullahi Shafii, Hajj Lukman Ibidunni, Hadji Abdullahi Afolabi and Imam Sholuoku at a lecture organised by Dawah Society of Nig. in conjunction with Mus’hana Sisters at Dawah School, Oke-Afa, Lagos.

Group picture to celebrate Al-Azhar International College, Lokoja-Nigeria on their victory as the 1st Runner-up at the Continental Debate organised by the Impact Africa International, Cotonou, Benin Republic. Picture shows the organisers and participants from priviledged schools in Africa.

Award Presentation to Al-Azhar International College Zango-Daji, Lokoja-Nigeria, the 1st Runnerup at the Impact Africa International,Cotonou Benin Republic. L-R Mr. Lawal Suleiman (Teacher), Miss Rasheedat Yahaya of Al-Azhar International College and the Chairman, Impact Africa International Cotonou Benin Republic, Pastor Banji Temitope.

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Arty News

Friday, July 3, 2015

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Celebrities unite for At Doherty’s ‘Coherence in Duality’ audio Bible presentation

Ejike Asiegbu

imoleAyo FAtunAse

G

ospel stars Asu Ekiye, Panam Percy Paul, Samsong and Solomon Lange will alongside other music acts perform at the launch of the audio bible in 19 Nigerian languages billed to hold at the Congress Hall of the NICON Hilton, Abuja on July 18 from 1pm.

Dike Chukwumerije, son of late Senator Chukwumerije would be on call to dish out soul inspiring poems as well as renowned Prof. Herbert Wilson.

Also, former Governor of Abia State, Orji Uzor Kalu has confirmed attendance for the July 18 event.

David Ogudu, General Overseer, G.O of Christos International Worship Centre, Abuja; producer of the audio bible described the oncoming event as “day of fun” at a media event in Abuja on Saturday, June 27. “It’s going to be a day of music, comedy and spiritual rejuvenation,” Ogudu said last Saturday. Nollywood actors Ejike Asiegbu, Larry Koldsweat and Zach Orji are among the celebrity partners of the project and would help in propagating the audio bible to the public.

Ogudu revealed how he came about the idea of the audio bible. “On Saturday, June 7, 2014, (5am), I had a night vision where I was commanded by the angel to go and prepare an audio Bible in different languages in Nigeria, for the healing and restoration of man’s dignity (Matt 4:14), reminding me how I was healed through an English audio Bible years ago, and how it will help strengthen my mother’s fragile age. Today we have it in 19 languages. The vision first came to me 19 years ago, precisely September 1996, while in Bible school in Benin City. But I did not know how it will become a reality but today it’s a reality.

It is my desire that all Nigerians will embrace it, especially the Christian body, for unity, sense of purpose, direction and the self dignity of our people. Also the generations yet unborn will be able to connect to their root

even in this era of globalization and westernization. Also preserving the word of God and making it easy for this generation to connect in this 21st century with their people because of the languages.”

The languages the audio bible was produced in at the moment are: Igbo, Hausa, Yoruba, Efik, Ibibio, Ebira, Idoma, Tiv, Igala, Urhobo, Itshekiri, Okrika, Ijaw, Benin, Gbagi, Gwari, Fulani, Ogoni and Pidgin English. “We are working on producing in other languages after we have seen how this one goes because the sole aim is to win souls for God, but we are trusting God for partnership from government, Ministry of Education, multinational bodies and international bible societies to help in the distribution of it to all nooks and crannies because we would be holding crusades in any part of the country that speaks the particular language in the audio bible with our celebrity partners.”

Doherty

Victor udoh

I

t was all enchanting to see the works of Dipo Doherty, a young emerging artist who had an exhibition of paintings at the Nike Arts Gallery in Lekki, Lagos. Dipo said he has been passionate about arts from his early school days. Speaking further, he said, his arts started as a hobby and metamorphosed into a passion. This was partly fuelled by the amount of encouragement he got from the arts community most of who agreed that his arts was very unique and original.

Coherence In Duality will be Dipo’s first solo exhibition in Lagos, Nigeria this year. It showcases a diverse body of works ranging from paintings to sculpture. His

works have been described as modern, elaborate, evocative, and having a touch of African and Eastern influences. His multi-cultural pieces also speak volumes of his major influences from synthetic cubism, Taoist philosophies, and American post-war contemporary art.

Coherence in Duality was held at Nike Art Gallery, Lekki. The opening reception was on the 13th of June from 4-8pm. It attracted numerous Nigerian professionals and expatriates from different works of life.

Doherty said, ‘’My work is a geometric and mathematical expression of emotions, energy and vibrations I perceive in my everyday life. It’s a thorough exploration of what dictates the geometric hierarchies of

the universe, and how we as humans experience it.” Dipo’s works most often start with the human form. ‘It is so integral to my art because it’s the medium via which we experience these energies’. I begin to intertwine physical and sensory interactions with matter to emotions, search for the mathematical undertones, and geometrically express them as my creativity dictates. His technical drawing and scientific background has thoroughly informed his art. At an early age of 14, He began assembling and drawing cross sections of machine elements and architecture. The ability to depict 3 dimensional information unto a 2 dimensional entity put him in awe. Tied with his concurrent scientific studies, He began to draw bonds between the chemical and physical nature of matter and their forms.

Speaking about Doherty’s work, veteran artist, Nike Davies Okundaye said, ‘’’Doherty’s work is very entertaining and unique. You can see the fact that he is engineer in the kind of paintings that he creates. I believe that Doherty will go places with his kind of work because there is nothing like being creative and original in visual arts.

Any artists that can achieve those qualities can get to the top of his artistic aspirations.’’ she said.

Dipo is currently based in Lagos. He holds a B.sc in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Virginia in the United States.

Liz Benson joins cast of ‘The Palace’ Adewunmi Peters

A

Liz Benson

s the saying goes, ‘One who finds a wife finds a good thing and obtains favour from the Lord’. But the synopsis of the ongoing television series shoot, The Palace, poses such timeless word otherwise, as marriage seems to be the beginning of problem in the life of the obtainer. Produced under the stables of Divine Touch Productions Limited, this star-filled television series will be the first of its kind with a roll call of popular Nollywood celebrities to thrill viewers on the major channels in the country.

Speaking from the set of The Palace, the producer and head-honcho of the production crew, Kingsley Okereke stated that before he embarked on the shoot, he had a picture in mind, which evolves on producing a quality television content that

will be a norm from Nollywood kind of movies. “Rarely do we see soap operas that are filled with top Nollywood celebrities.

Basically, it may be the bane of budget, as it involves good and huge funding to get them involved. But here as you can see, we involved all those big names.

We want them to do a total different thing from the usual Nollywood films,” he enthused.

With an impeccable storyline, it divulges the story of a king who married but got betrayed by the wife whom he had so much love and trust for. After battling with the emotional upset, he bounced back but developed a high level of hatred on women.

As if that wasn’t enough, his son and heir apparent to the throne took the same line of lifestyle. Could they all cope with it till the rest of their lives? Even when another heir apparent will be produced by a woman? These are the intrigues to unravel in this suspense-filled series.

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Arty News

Friday, July 3, 2015

33

We must re-brand entertainment in Abuja –Chase The Project Director, 41NAIJA, Victor Akpa aka ‘First Chase’ believes a rebirth of the Abuja entertainment industry would yield positive results. He shares his thoughts on how artistes can bring this to reality in this interview with REGINA OTOKPA. Excerpts: Recently, your organisation hosted the first ever entertainment seminar for stakeholders in the Abuja entertainment industry, were your expectations met?

Yes, it took quite a period of planning, reaching out to those we invited. We did a whole lot of follow up, publicity via the social and core media, one on one interactions and it paid off by the end. We are happy it turned out the way it did.

How long did you plan the seminar?

It took us close to two months. We had wanted hosting it within the first two months of the year but because of the elections we extended it a little bit and just immediately after the elections we started planning.

What informed the seminar?

Looking at the entertainment circle in Abuja, I would not want to say Abuja has an entertainment industry because the entertainment environment in Abuja is still growing; it is more like a toddler when it comes to real show business. It is nothing compared to what we have in Lagos and even what we have in Enugu but most people don’t know that. At some point we felt there was need for something drastic to be done about it. That moved us to talking to individuals trying to find out if they feel same way, well they did so we decided to create a platform where we could all come together and chart a way forward. That inspired the first edition of the Abuja entertainment seminar which was held on the 11th of June and it is going to be an annual event.

Before the seminar you went to the street to get the opinion of residents on entertainment in Abuja, what did you come up with?

The results we got were quite disappointing considering the fact that out of the whole radio stations in Abuja you cannot find somebody that knows the names of at least three presenters in particular radio station, it’s embarrassing not to talk of the names of the local artistes we have within Abuja or names of Dee jays who make up the entertainment industry and these discoveries further pressed the need to do something different.

Several meetings have been held to unify the factions within the industry, do you think 41NAIJA has the capacity to finally broker peace?

It is a collective thing, a tree can’t make a forest and that is why we didn’t organise the event for ourselves but for all the stakeholders because we saw the need for all stakeholders to come together as one unit and move the industry forward.

It is not about 41NAIJA being able to do it, it is about everybody coming together to support one another, that is the way it is done in Lagos and that is why they have a striving industry and that is something we should imbibe here to achieve positive results in terms of being able to achieve what they have achieved.

What challenges did you encounter while trying to put the seminar together?

Some people didn’t believe in the idea so it took a lot of convincing to get believers in our cause. We also had issues of sponsorship the same thing is applicable to the corporate bodies, they weren’t really convinced about what we did but by the time they get to see clips of what we have done, they should have a picture of what we are all about and what we are still going to do.

What else are you into as an entertainment outfit?

We are a media and entertainment company, we are registered by law under the Corporate Affairs Commission, we have an event, ‘Save Tomorrow’ where we reach out to charity but this time around it is not in the usual fashion where people take items to the orphanage, stay with them for a while before departing. This time we are organizing an event for charity where we will have celebrities. We are also looking at providing medical services through medical experts because some of the kids are not always in good condition health wise. We also look forward to a fund raising event where at the end of the event, they would be enough money to assist the orphanage homes.

So far, how many orphanage homes have you been able to reach out to?

We started the ‘Save Tomorrow’ programme last year on the 20th of December and so far we have been able to reach out to four orphanage homes.

How has it been working with your artistes?

It has been quite interesting; they sing the music and as a management company it is our duty to look after them, to run around, package, brand, promote and also manage them.

Speakers during the seminar narrowed the challenges facing the growth of entertainment in Abuja to lack of structures, how best can these structures be established?

For me the structures has to be in two ways; the first has to do with the mind, our mental state has to change, we have to begin to see ourselves as equal with the artistes that are in Lagos, we have to

Chase

Once Our artistes are re-branded, cOrpOrate bOdies wOuld want tO assOciate with them because they can Only thrOw in their mOney On an artiste that is wOrth it also believe in ourselves. On the other hand it has to be physical which means we have to start re-branding ourselves in terms of appearance, utterances and content. Our content should be of good quality and has to be comparable with that of Lagos for the artistes to be able to get on track. Once our artistes are rebranded, corporate bodies would want to associate with them because they can only throw in their money on an artiste that is worth it. The industry as a whole also needs to be branded as well, there is this perception about Abuja artiste by Abuja residents, we have to start changing through re-branding to get appreciated and respected. The various segments within the industry would need to begin to collaborate, have a good relationship and show support for one another.

Would 41NAIJA be collaborating with the leadership of various entertainment bodies to put policies that would checkmate the activities of their members?

That is why we would be having a review; we are going to be meeting with the leadership often because it is through the leadership of the various associations the implementation would go down to the body. The media also has a very big role to play.

Do you agree that a parent body is the only way to move entertainment forward in Abuja?

Everybody is doing the much they can

but the basic thing is for everybody to come together and have same mindset.

The business part of showbiz seems to be lacking here in Abuja, how can Abuja artistes build business round their talents?

All over the world the basic kind of music that brings financial success is commercial music but that does not mean that I do not believe in laying back and listen to songs that have good content.

The way forward for artistes is to make quality songs, have good appearance and be a brand that is well packaged.

What advice do you have for artistes in Abuja?

Believe in yourselves, work hard by bringing out quality contents that can match that of their counterparts elsewhere especially in Lagos. There should be good re-branding, good packaging, have a role model, carry out research on people, artistes and how to better your art.

Do think artistes in Abuja explore the internet enough?

Going by the seminar they don’t and it is time they started doing that. We are in the internet age, they should take advantage of it. The internet is an added advantage to what they do, it is their success right in their palm. 41NAIJA is here to stay and to support whatever brand is carrying out any event in Abuja.

34

Escape

Friday, July 3, 2015

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Post-conflict wonders of Rwanda In spite of the extremely small land mass and very tumultuous history, Rwanda has risen above these to create a very unique place in Africa.

Olawale Oluwadahunsi WITH AGENCY REPORTS

Rwanda, A sovereign state in central and east Africa is located a few degrees south of the Equator and surrounded by the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Uganda, Tanzania, and Burundi. It is slightly smaller than Maryland.

Steep mountains and deep valleys cover most of the country.

Lake Kivu in the northwest, at an altitude of 4,829 ft (1,472 m), is the highest lake in Africa. Extending north of it are the Virunga Mountains, which include the volcano Karisimbi (14,187 ft; 4,324 m), Rwanda’s highest point.

Rwandans are composed of three ethnic groups: the Hutu, Tutsi and Twa. The Twa are a forest-dwelling pygmy people descended from Rwanda’s earliest inhabitants. Scholars disagree on the origins of and differences between the Hutu and Tutsi; some believe differences are derived from former social castes, while others view them as being ethnicities or tribes. Christianity is the largest religion in the country; the principal language is Kinyarwanda, spoken by most Rwandans, with French and English serving as official languages.

Rwanda has the world’s highest proportion of females in government positions in proportion to the population.

Hunter gatherers settled the territory in the stone and iron ages, followed later by Bantu peoples. The population coalesced first into clans and then into kingdoms. The Kingdom of Rwanda dominated from the mid-eighteenth century, with the Tutsi kings conquering others militarily, centralizing power, and later enacting anti-Hutu policies.

Germany colonized Rwanda in 1884 as part of German East Africa, followed by Belgium, which invaded in 1916 during World War I. Both European nations ruled through the kings and perpetuated a pro-Tutsi policy. The Hutu population revolted in 1959. They massacred numerous Tutsi and ultimately established an independent, Hutu-dominated state in 1962. The Tutsi-led Rwandan Patriotic Front launched a civil war in 1990. Social tensions erupted in the 1994 genocide, in which Hutu extremists killed an estimated

Vrunga mountains 500,000 to 1 million Tutsi and moderate Hutu.

Rwanda’s economy suffered heavily during the 1994 Rwandan Genocide, but has since strengthened. The economy is based mostly on subsistence agriculture. Coffee and tea are the major cash crops for export. Tourism is a fast-growing sector and is now the country’s leading foreign exchange earner. Rwanda is one of only two countries in which mountain gorillas can be visited safely, and visitors are prepared to pay high prices for gorilla tracking permits. Music and dance are an integral part of Rwandan culture, particularly drums and the highly choreographed intore dance. Traditional arts and crafts are produced throughout the country, including imigongo, a unique cow dung art.

In prehistoric times montane forest occupied one-third of the territory of present-day Rwanda.

Naturally occurring vegetation is now mostly restricted to the three National Parks, with terraced agriculture dominating the rest of the country. Nyungwe, the largest remaining tract of forest, contains 200 species of tree as well as orchids and begonias. Vegetation in the Volcanoes National Park is mostly bamboo and moorland, with small areas of forest. By contrast, Akagera has a savanna ecosystem in which acacia dominates the flora. There are several rare or endangered plant species in Akagera, including Markhamia lutea and Eulophia guineensis.

The greatest diversity of large mammals is found in the three National Parks, which are designat-

ed conservation areas. Akagera contains typical savanna animals such as giraffes and elephants, while Volcanoes is home to an estimated one-third of the worldwide mountain gorilla population.

Nyungwe Forest boasts thirteen primate species including chimpanzees and Ruwenzori colobus arboreal monkeys; the Ruwenzori colobus move in groups of up to 400 individuals, the largest troop size of any primate in Africa.

There are 670 bird species in Rwanda, with variation between the east and the west. Nyungwe Forest, in the west, has 280 recorded species, of which 26 are endemic to the Albertine Rift; endemic species include the Ruwenzori Turaco and Handsome Francolin. Eastern Rwanda, by contrast, features savanna birds such as the Black-headed Gonolek and those associated with swamps and lakes, including storks and cranes.

Music and dance are an integral part of Rwandan ceremonies, festivals, social gatherings and storytelling. The most famous traditional dance is a highly choreographed routine consisting of three components: the umushagiriro, or cow dance, performed by women; the intore, or dance of heroes, performed by men; and the drumming, also traditionally performed by men, on drums known as ingoma. The best known dance group is the National Ballet. It was established by President Habyarimana in 1974, and performs nationally and internationally.

Traditional arts and crafts are produced throughout the country, although most originated

as functional items rather than purely for decoration. Woven baskets and bowls are especially common. Imigongo, a unique cow dung art, is produced in the southeast of Rwanda, with a history dating back to when the region was part of the independent Gisaka kingdom.

Rwanda does not have a long history of written literature, but there is a strong oral tradition ranging from poetry to folk stories. Many of the country’s moral values and details of history have been passed down through the generations. The most famous Rwandan literary figure was Alexis Kagame, who carried out and published research into oral traditions as well as writing his own poetry.

Music and dance are an integral part of Rwandan ceremonies, festivals, social gatherings and storytelling. The most famous traditional dance is a highly choreographed routine consisting of three components:

Rwanda National museum, Butare

the umushagiriro, or cow dance, performed by women; the intore, or dance of heroes, performed by men; and the drumming, also traditionally performed by men, on drums known as ingoma.

The best known dance group is the National Ballet. It was established by President Habyarimana in 1974, and performs nationally and internationally.

Traditionally, music is transmitted orally, with styles varying between the social groups. Drums are of great importance; the royal drummers enjoyed high status within the court of the King (Mwami). Drummers play together in groups of varying sizes, usually between seven and nine in number. The country has a growing popular music industry, influenced by African Great Lakes, Congolese, and American music. The most popular genre is hip hop, with a blend of rap, ragga, R&B and dance-pop.

Traditional arts and crafts are produced throughout the coun-

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

try, although most originated as functional items rather than purely for decoration. Woven baskets and bowls are especially common. Imigongo, a unique cow dung art, is produced in the southeast of Rwanda, with a history dating back to when the region was part of the independent Gisaka kingdom. The dung is mixed with natural soils of various colours and painted into patterned ridges to form geometric shapes.

Other crafts include pottery and wood carving. Traditional housing styles make use of locally available materials; circular or rectangular mud homes with grass-thatched roofs (known as nyakatsi) are the most common.

The government has initiated a programme to replace these with more modern materials such as corrugated iron.

Rwanda does not have a long history of written literature, but there is a strong oral tradition ranging from poetry to folk stories. Many of the country’s moral values and details of history have been passed down through the generations. The most famous Rwandan literary figure was Alexis Kagame (1912–1981), who carried out and published research into oral traditions as well as writing his own poetry.

The Rwandan Genocide resulted in the emergence a literature of witness accounts, essays and fic-

Escape

Friday, July 3, 2015 where) and it’s also extremely picturesque. Make sure that you try to visit cities like Kibuye and Gisenye near the DR Congo border.

Butare (Huye) This is the cultural hub for the country and was once the most important city before 1965.

Kigali: Capital of Rwanda A very unique city in the heart of Rwanda, Kigali is a gorgeous city with great weather. You can get a taste of history here by visiting the genocide memorials and learn about the turbulent past of the country.

Lake Kivu

Gorilla Trekking Most people think that the only thing to do in Rwanda is to see the Gorillas. A very unique experience when you can get inches away from Gorillas is something that you can’t put a price on. The largest groups of gorillas are in Uganda but you can also have a great experience in Rwanda.

National Parks

Kigali Memorial Centre garden

A Rwanda tourist attractions list wouldn’t be right without adding the list of national parks in the country. Rwanda is a host to a great variation of animals aside from gorillas including chimpanzees and a variety of birds as well.

Some of the popular parks are Akagera and Nyungwe.

Children at Inema Art Centre, Kigali

tion by a new generation of writers such as Benjamin Sehene. A number of films have been produced about the Rwandan Genocide, including the Golden Globenominated Hotel Rwanda, Shake Hands with the Devil, Sometimes in April, and Shooting Dogs, the last two having been filmed in Rwanda and having featured survivors as cast members.[212] Eleven regular national holidays are observed throughout the year, with others occasionally inserted by the government. The week following Genocide Memorial Day on 7 April is designated an official week of mourning.

The victory for the RPF over the Hutu extremists is celebrated as Liberation Day on 4 July. The last Saturday of each month is umuganda, a national day of community service, during which most normal services close down from 07:00 until 12:00.

that is eaten throughout the African Great Lakes. Isombe is made from mashed cassava leaves and served with dried fish. Lunch is usually a buffet known as mélange, consisting of the above staples and sometimes meat. Brochettes are the most popular food when eating out in the evening, usually made from goat but sometimes tripe, beef, or fish. In rural areas, many bars have a brochette seller responsible for tending and slaughtering the goats, skewering and barbecuing the meat, and serving it with grilled bananas.

Milk, particularly in a fermented yoghurt form called ikivuguto, is a common drink throughout the country. Other drinks include a traditional beer called urwagwa, made from sorghum or bananas, which features in traditional rituals and ceremonies. Commercial beers brewed in Rwanda include Primus, Mützig, and Amstel.

Cuisine

Tourist attractions

The cuisine of Rwanda is based

Here you will find a great national museum that will show the great history of Rwanda and also it’s entrance into the modern world. Visit the nearby Nyabisindu (Nayanza) where you can find the impressive royal palace of Rwanda’s fuedal monarchy.

Kigali Memorial centre fire, Kigali

on local staple foods produced by subsistence agriculture such as bananas, plantains (known as ibitoke), pulses, sweet potatoes, beans, and cassava (manioc).

Many Rwandans do not eat meat more than a few times a month.

For those who live near lakes and have access to fish, tilapia is popular. The potato, thought to have been introduced to Rwanda

by German and Belgian colonialists, is very popular. Ubugari (or umutsima) is a paste made from cassava or maize and water to form a porridge-like consistency

Lake Kivu Part of the Great Rift Valley, Lake Kivu is the border between Rwanda & DR Congo. A great relaxing region where tourists are safe to visit and swim (ask locals

35

Nyungwe Forest

Kigali Memorial Centre garden

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Friday, July 3, 2015

Mixed reactions trail imported vehicles’ 70% tariff implementation As the Nigeria Customs Service commenced full implementation of the 70 per cent tariff imposed on all imported Fully Built Units, FBUs, of vehicles with effect from Wednesday this week, Adejuwon Osunnuyi in this report captures the mood of stakeholders as well as implications for Nigerians.

f

Jalal

collection of the 35 per cent levy would go on as scheduled.

Adeniyi said: “As an agency of the government, we only implement policies, we do not make them and so if we are asked to commence implementation of a policy, we do and if we are asked to stop, we comply appropriately. so as regards the auto policy, we were given a directive before now on which no reversal has been made and so naturally we will go ahead with it” investigations showed that many ncs commands, especially those handling roll-on-rolloff, roro, cargo such as ports and terminal multiservices limited ptml, which handles over 60 per cent of the nation’s roro traffic, tin can island ports complex and lagos ports complex,

Imported vehicles

Apapa have all imputed the new tariff into their system to reflect the new tariff regime. it was gathered that one of the direct implications of for the transport sector is that used vehicles such as the toyota camry 2000 model, also called pencil light, which before now attracted a duty of between n270, 000 and n340,000, and which sold at n1.2 million or slightly above will now attract a total of between n470,

‘

As An Agency of the government,

we only implement policies, we do not mAke them And so if we Are Asked to commence implementAtion of A policy, we do And if we Are Asked to stop, we comply AppropriAtely

‘

or nigerians who have always had the dream of purchasing fairly used cars, otherwise known as tokunbo as a result of near non affordability of new ones, such hope might remain a tall one. with the commencement of the full implementation of the 70 per cent tariff imposed on all imported fully Built Units fBUs of vehicles which started with effect from July 1, 2015, stakeholders have expressed the fears that the prices of vehicles imported into the country would definitely hit the roof. though the first phase of the policy implementation had commenced since April last year, which entailed a 35 per cent import duty on all fBUs, attempts to enforce the remaining 35 per cent as early as beginning of this year were rebuffed by customs licensed agents who staged demonstration against the introduction of the automotive policy of 70 per cent tariff. the national Automotive council nAc had on december 31, 2014 announced the extension of the takeoff date for new policy from January 1, 2015 to June 30, 2015, which is the second step of the auto policy involving the imposition of 35 per cent levy with effect from July. public relations officer of the service, mr. wale Adeniyi, who confirmed the development in a telephone interview, disclosed that the last directive on the new auto policy issued by former minister of finance and coordinating minister for the economy, dr. ngozi okonjo-iweala, was that the service should suspend the implementation of the second leg of the policy, which is the collection of the 35 per cent levy till June 30, 2015. he noted that the federal government had not issued any counter-directive on the new policy, thereby indicating that the

000 and n520, 000 and would sell for above n1.5million. national mirror also reliably gathered that the volkswagen ‘danfo’ bus, used for commercial bus service in lagos, which before the new tariff sold for about n700, 000 will now sell for over n1 million, among several other vehicle prices, which portends an increase in cost of transportation and by extension, other goods and services across the country.

According to olanipekun Bamidele, a transporter, people should not be surprised that transport fares might increase in the coming days. “if the price we are buying the imported vehicles we are using for transportation would continue to skyrocket as you can see, we would be forced to increase the fares to cover the cost. transport fare increase is not about fuel hike alone, there are other factors.”

A freight forwarder, who commented on the commencement of the new policy, said there was no need to complain since the negative effects of the new policy would be felt by most nigerians, especially poor masses. director general of the nAc, mr. Aminu Jalal had announcing the extension of the new tariff, said the arrangements for the establishment of the affordable vehicle finance scheme was delayed for about four months following

the outbreak of the ebola viral disease.

According to him, some staff of the collaborating bank, westbank of south Africa, were compelled to delay their planned trip to nigerian to set up operations for the financing scheme from september 2014 to January 2015. this development, it was gathered caused a for the commencement of the operations of the financing scheme to April 2015, which also left the government with no other option than to also extend the takeoff date of the 70 per cent tariff on fBUs of vehicles. it was also gathered that government’s earlier decision to change the effective date of the 70 per cent levy from July 1, 2014, when the 35 per cent duty officially took effect to december 31, 2014, was in order to give the local assembly plants time to produce enough affordable vehicles as alternative to the imported used vehicles. statistics by the council showed that some of the local assembly plants had already started rolling out vehicles, especially innoson vehicle manufacturing company limited ivm, nnewi, two passenger vehicles were launched recently, ivm fox and ivm Umu november last year. it was learnt that though a lot of nigerians still desired to buy second-hand vehicles, popularly referred to as tokunbo vehicles, auto dealers had reduced their volume of importation by over 50 per cent due to escalating costs and the failure of many target buyers to commit huge expenditure outlays. the dealers complained of poor sales, adding that most people who had shown interest in purchasing the vehicles have had to abandon the idea because of the rising prices. speaking on the development, the president, Berger car dealers Association, mr. metche nnadiekwe, admitted, “Business has been really slow. we don’t get much patronage from buyers again. we have also been forced to reduce our imports because importing cars has become very expensive due to the present tariff. there is no point using all you have to import cars if there are no buyers for them. “when things were rosy, we could get between 10 and 20 buyers in a day at this park alone. with all the other parks put together, the number was more. now that things are so tight, we get an average of five buyers daily at this park. when you put figures together from other parks, it is about 50 buyers in the entire market.”

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Friday, July 3, 2015

37

FG to introduce fund for road maintenance

T

he Federal Government has revealed that a special fund to cater for the construction and maintenance of roads in the country would soon be created.

The Federal Ministry of Works’ Director, Federal Highway Services Alhaji Shehu Dankano, made this known at the inauguration of the headquarters of the National Association of Road Transport Owners in Abuja recently.

Dankano, who said the National Roads Fund Bill was already in the National Assembly, expressed confidence that the 8th legislature would expedite action on the bill to provide systematic

funding for the repair and construction of roads in the country.

Speaking with journalists at the event, the National President of NARTO, Alhaji Kassim Bataiya, denied that the association was frustrating the rehabilitation of the railways, adding that Nige-

Bataiya

rian roads were collapsing due to overuse.

He said, “NARTO as an organisation is not against the operation of railways in the country.

We have actually been pleading with the government to put our railways in order so that our roads will be less busy.

“Why our roads fail today is because of overuse. Goods that are supposed to be conveyed by rail, especially plants and equipment, are being carried on the roads. Goods that are supposed to go through the pipelines are now being transported by tanker trucks.

“So, the roads are overused.

NARTO will be pleased to see our rail system working perfectly. We are not against the coming back of the railway transportation system in Nigeria.”

Lagos commences removal of tankers on Apapa – Oshodi Expressway

I

n its determination to ensure the safety of Lagosians and free flow of traffic, the Lagos State Government has cleared the tankers, which were illegally parked and abandoned on Apapa – Oshodi Expressway to keep traffic moving and make the axis accessible to other road users.

The General Manager Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), Engr. Babatunde Edu who led the rescue team of the agency in conjunction with the Nigerian Navy and the Police said that over 50 trailers were removed from the area in accordance with the administration’s zero tolerance for gridlocks and indiscipline.

According to Edu, the continued exercise would ensure the excesses of tanker drivers are checkmated thereby restoring sanity to the axis.

He said that the State Government being a responsible and responsive one would ensure that every citizen has a right to the axis and not only the tankers or

Illegally parked tankers on Apapa – Oshodi Expressway

trucks carrying containers.

He recalled that several efforts have been made in the past to restore sanity and bring back the old glory of Apapa but each effort has always been truncated by recalcitrant drivers.

To the LASTMA boss, this time around, the enlightenment and enforcement exercise will be a continuous one as the agency would not relent until tanker drivers comply with the directive

of government.

According to him, series of meetings have been held with the Petroleum Drivers Tankers (PTD) Branch of the National Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) to educate their members and ensure that the tanker drivers desist from indiscriminate parking and indiscipline attitude as this could pose danger to other road users.

Coscharis Motors introduces BMW X6 SAV Coupe to Nigerian market

C

oscharis Motors has unveiled the all new BMW X6 Sport Activity vehicle SAV into the market.

The BMW X6, the world’s first Sport Activity Coupe was unveiled to the admiration of BMW customers in Nigeria at the Oriental Hotel, Lagos.

Speaking at the unveiling, the Deputy Group Managing Director, Coscharis Group, Mr. Okey Nwoke, described the new BMW X6 as the latest in the X series and updates the X5 in terms of performance, driver’s involvement and stability which puts the BMW

in its rightful place as a car that gives you the desired sheer driving pleasure.

Nwoke, who represented the Coscharis president, Dr. Cosmas Maduka at the occasion, said, ‘’the introduction of this new BMW X6 into the Nigerian market at this period will avail lovers of premium automobiles, a wider option of choice’’.

He noted that the X6 is a car any automobile lover would like to drive no matter his standing in the society.

According to him, Cosharis Group has a lot of products to

showcase to Nigerians hence they have continued to introduce premium products to Nigerians since the beginning of the year.

The BMW X6 is available in two engine variants: the xDrive 50i (4.4 V8 engine, 400 hp, 450lb.ft torque) and the xDrive 35i (3.0 inline six-cylinder engine, 300 hp, 300 lb.-ft torque), both with Twin Turbo and direct injection.

Coscharis Motors holds sole franchise for BMW brands in Nigeria and consequently, boasts first class showrooms and wellequipped after-sales facilities nationwide for all BMW models.

megacrown1@yahoo.com 08025237926

Nissan, Access Bank partner on vehicle finance scheme

A

ccess Bank and Nissan have announced a vehicle finance initiative which will enable customers to purchase Nissan vehicles at an interest rate of 18 per cent.

As part of the initiative, vehicles would be purchased from Stallion NMN and other accredited dealerships nationwide.

At a brief ceremony in Lagos where the initiative was endorsed by both establishments, Access Bank PLC Executive Director-Personal Banking, Mr. Victor Etuokwu, said, “We are bringing together two Nigerian most powerful brands; Access Bank – a tier one banking group and Stallion NMN, a member of Stallion Group to give Nigerians opportunity to own brand new Nissan vehicles at affordable rates.”

“These alluring incentives are intended to encourage patrons to buy functional brand new vehicles instead of used cars known as ‘tokunbo that are far too exorbitant to contend with.”

He described the NissanAccess finance pact as seamless apparatus of purchase that promises only 2.5 per cent insurance premium with free vehicle registration, no upfront fee, 48 months tenor, free labour charge for the first three services, three-year or 100, 000km

Etuokwu

warranty and free Samsung Galaxy tap for every vehicle purchased.

Etuokwu added that a brand new car wasn’t a luxury but part of a tool to work efficiently.

He advised patrons to embrace the scheme and drive fashionable Nissan cars that have value and quality.

Stallion NMN Managing Director Mr. Parvir Singh, said, “We will continue to invest in new marketing initiatives that enable more customers to feel and appreciate tech-savvy Nissan vehicles that offer unprecedented comfort and satisfaction.”

He enjoined prospective customers to explore this pact by simply walking into any Stallion NMN accredited dealership in Nigeria to get a profoma invoice for a choice Nissan car where a deal would be struck with Access Bank PLC thereafter.”

FRSC urges commercial drivers to obtain valid licence

T

he Federal Road Safety Corps has urged commercial vehicle drivers to obtain valid driving licence before operating on the roads.

The Unit Commander, Federal Road Safety Corps, RS 2.17 Ojota Unit Command, Lagos, Hamzat Kehinde, said this during a sensitisation programme for commercial drivers in the Anthony area of the state.

The programme was organised by the FRSC RS2.15, Lagos Unit Command, DLC Workstation, Onigbongbo, in collaboration with Anthony Motor Vehicle Administration Agency and Vehicle Inspection Serviced.

“If you are a commercial driver, you must go through the necessary process to get the valid driving licence that will permit you to drive because you will be conveying many passengers and the safety of the people you are conveying must be paramount,” Kehinde said.

He explained that there were 10 classes of driving licence, adding that before a person could be given a licence to operate as a commercial driver,

he must have driven different classes of vehicles.

Kehinde said any driver caught with a fake licence would be made to pay a fine and have his vehicle impounded, while he must still go through the appropriate process to obtain a valid licence.

The Lagos Sector Head, DLC, Olawale Kazeem, explained that a person must be up to a mature age of 26 to obtain the commercial driving licence.

He said such the person must also belong to a drivers’ association or a company that would give him a letter of introduction to process the licence.

According to him, the process of getting the licence has been simplified because the required form can be downloaded online.

The Zonal Head, VIS, Anthony Village, Femi Famuyide, said a driving licence could only be issued to applicants who had passed the necessary tests, including physical appearance assessment, vision test, road sign test, road rules test and driving test.

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Cocktail

Friday, July 3, 2015

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Oddities Man charged with robbing same Oddities New Jersey bank 5 years later

P

rosecutors say a Philadelphia man robbed a New Jersey bank four months after he was released from prison for robbing the same place five years earlier.

Federal prosecutors say 54-year-old Keith Ney is due to appear in court Wednesday afternoon.

Authorities say he entered the Cape Bank in Atlantic City on April 23 and gave a teller a note that said he had a gun. Prosecutors

say he stole an undisclosed amount of cash.

Authorities say as Ney was fleeing, a bank employee approached a police officer on traffic detail and said the bank had been robbed.

Ney was immediately spotted and taken into custody.

Ney had been released from prison Dec. 9 and was still on supervised release.

He was in custody Wednesday and not immediately available to comment.

Woman, 88, charged with assaulting officer at wrong address

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n 88-year-old woman has been charged with assaulting police who responded to her western Massachusetts home, which turned out to be the wrong address.

The Berkshire Eagle (http://bit.ly/1QUyd0Y ) reports that officers went to the home of Phyllis Stankiewicz on Thursday following a report of a disturbance involving someone with a baseball bat.

Police say Stankiewicz

opened her front door while wielding a knife and slapped an officer, after telling police there was no crime there and yelling at them to leave. Authorities later said the disturbance report was actually for a home a block away.

Stankiewicz pleaded not guilty Friday in District Court to assault and battery on a police officer and was released on her own recognizance. She declined to comment when reached by phone by The Associated Press.

‘Will Pope chew coca leaves in Bolivia?’

P

ope Francis will decide for himself if he will chew coca leaves in order to ward off altitude sickness when he lands next week at La Paz, Bolivia, the highest international airport in the world, the Vatican said on Tuesday.

A Bolivian minister said on Sunday that Francis had told government officials that he would like to chew coca leaves - the major ingredient of cocaine when he visits..

But spokesman Father Federico Lombardi, responding at a briefing on the trip where several questions revolved around the Argentine pope and the Andean coca leaf, said he did not know if any such request had been made.

“I am not aware of that,” he said. “The pope will do what he thinks is most opportune.”

At just over 4,000 meters (13,000 feet) above sea level,

La Paz airport, appropriately called “El Alto”. The city is below the airport, at about 3,650 meters (11,975 feet).

Local people for centuries have chewed coca leaves to ward off the effects of altitude.

“There are popular customs that people use. Some drink coca tea and others chew coca leaves. Let’s see

Pope Francis

what he decides to do. You can do it too (chew coca leaves), if you want to,” Lombardi told reporters.

The coca leaf debate prompted one Hispanic reporter to interject out loud: “Hey, it is not a hallucinogen.”

The unprocessed leaf is legal to use and still widely chewed in Bolivia and other Andean countries.

Many indigenous people, including Bolivian President Evo Morales, defend its use and consider it a sacred plant.

For health reasons, the 78-year-old Francis, who lost part of one lung to disease when he was a young man, will be in La Paz for only about four hours before moving on to Santa Cruz.

Friday, July 3, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Business Maritime

39

Exploring integrated transport system’s benefits for seaports’ efficiency The crippling effects of the perennial gridlock on various ports’ access roads in Apapa have brought to fore the dangers inherent in the absence of an integrated transport system in Nigeria. FRANCIS EZEM reports that the country is losing so much in terms of revenue and cargo traffic to the lingering gap in the nation’s transport sector.

A

n integrated transport system, also known as also called the multimodal transport system, is one that facilitates linkage of the three major modes of transportation - the rail, road and sea.

Virtually, the most efficient seaports in the world, including the Port of Antwerp, Belgium and Port of Singapore, amongst several others, have this transport system In addition to engendering efficiency and competitiveness of the ports, it also reduces the cost of movement of people and goods with the attendant implications for reduced cost of doing business, among others.

It was in realisation of the far-reaching benefits of the transport system that the Federal Government took steps towards revamping the rail system in the country, which had been comatose for several decades.

The government, especially in the last four years, had in addition to resuscitating the narrow gauges most of which were dilapidated also built standard gauges across the country.

One of the immediate benefits of the initiative is the movement of containers from the Lagos Ports Complex Apapa to some Inland Container Depots ICDs, under an arrangement between the Nigerian Railway Corporation NRC and these ICD owners.

But then, the huge investment in the rail transport system has not translated into a fully integrated national transport system, a worrisome development that continued to affect negatively the efficiency and competitiveness of the nation’s seaports.

Available statistics show that in India, which has a lot of historical and economic factors in common with Nigeria including high population density, the rail transport systems accounts for over 80 per cent of the means of movement of goods and people while in Nigeria which is less densely populated, rail constitutes less than two per cent of the means of movement of people and goods.

This definitely portends a great danger to the economy, especially given that transport is critical to the development of any economy.

Experts therefore believe that Nigeria loses over 30 per cent of her Gross Domestic Product annually to the inadequacies of the nation’s transport system, occasioned especially by the total absence of an integrate transport system.

Managing Director of Kamany Marine

Rail container haulage

Services Limited, an indigenous importing, exporting and freight forwarding firm, Mr. Charles Okorefe, who spoke on this development, said that the Nigerian Government has over the years not been able to develop infrastructural capacities that would drive an efficient seaport operation in the country.

“An integrated transport system is the fulcrum of the development of any nation because an efficient transport is the wheel on which the entire economy revolves” he also argued..

He however made a strong case for the development of a clear-cut National Policy on Maritime Transport; absence of which he said is partly responsible for the low level of development of the industry in Nigeria.

He argued that a nation that develops is one that has an integrated transport system, because there is a nexus between transport system and the growth and development of any nation, adding that integrated transport system is critical to efficient seaport operations.

It was in recognition of this fact that chairman of Seaport Terminal Operators of Nigeria STOAN, umbrella body for all the port concessionaires operating in Nigeria, Princess Vicky Hastruup recently said that the absence of a multi-modal transport system linking the ports and the resultant gridlock on port access roads was affecting port operations negatively.

She blamed the problem on the poor state of the roads, which apart from being narrow, are so dilapidated and poorly maintained as well as the presence of the

AN INTEGRATED TRANSPORT SYSTEM IS THE FULCRUM OF THE DEVELOPMENT OF ANY NATION BECAUSE AN EFFICIENT TRANSPORT IS THE WHEEL ON WHICH THE ENTIRE ECONOMY REVOLVES tank farms for the storage of petroleum products.

According to her, if there was an efficient and integrated transport system linking the ports, the effects of the presence of the tank farms would have been minimal because most of the petroleum products would have either been moved by rail of barges through the waterways to their various destinations.

She said that in addition to fixing the roads, the government should take urgent steps to relocate the tank farms to reduce the influx of tankers, in the short run while in the long run; efforts should be made to integrate the three transport modes into the port system.

The newly appointed General Manager of the Nigerian Ports Authority in charge of the Western Ports, Chief Michael Ajayi, who toured the ports under his jurisdiction, especially the Lagos Ports Complex, Apapa and Tin Can Island Ports Complex

and other terminals in Lagos, said that the perennial road traffic was working against ports’ efficiency and by extension, revenue generation.

According to him, the development was impacting negatively on the ability of the ports to generate revenue for the Federal Government, insisting that whatever the revenue the ports are making now represents only 50 per cent of the actual revenue generation.

He disclosed that the in the interim, the authority has opened discussions with the Federal Road Maintenance Agency FERMA with a view to fixing the failed portions of the roads.

It was gathered that the Apapa –Mile 2 Expressway, Creek Road, Point Road and Wharf Road would be given priority attention.

But stakeholders strongly believe that migrating to an integrated transport system, which would involve the use of the three major modes of transport, which will bring about a regime of efficient movement of goods and persons not only at the seaports but also across the length and breadth of the country remains the most viable option, as will bring to an end all the challenges posed by the current disjointed transport system, which lays emphasis only on road transport.

This is because, apart from making the ports efficient and competitive and thus forestall revenue loss, it would also drastically reduce the cost of doing business in the country, with attendant multiplier effects. A stitch in time saves nine.

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Business Maritime

Friday, July 3, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

ANCLA accuses National Assembly on Anti- foreign Domination Bill’ STORIES: FRANCIS EZEM

F

reight forwarders and customs brokerage agents have raised a fresh alarm over the takeover of cargo clearing business in Nigeria by foreign operators, who now practically dominate the business to the detriment of the indigenous operators.

Many foreign nationals such as South Africans, Indians, Chinese and many other Asian countries now throng the Customs Processing Centres, CPCs, in major seaports undertaking cargo clearing functions, which many industry analysts believe should be exclusive roles of Nigerians.

Available information in the West African sub-region, especially in Ghana, Republic of Benin and Togo, and a few others indicated that cargo clearance is the exclusive responsibility of the various countries’ nationals.

National President of Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents, ANLCA, Alhaji Olayiwola Shittu, who made the disclosure, noted that many members of the association and other Nigerian freight forwarders are at the verge of being thrown out of business due to the influx of foreigners into this segment of shipping business.

According to him, moves by the association to checkmate this rather ugly development by sponsoring a bill that would make the trade an exclusive preserve for Nigerians met a brick wall,

Container block-stacks

as members of the National Assembly allegedly asked for N600 million as a precondition for the sponsorship of the bill.

“We are going through tough times because foreigners now get the juiciest jobs while the Nigerian operators scramble for the crumbs and we approached the National Assembly for a bill to check this ugly development and we were asked to bring N600 million and since we do not have such money, we gave up the idea”, he lamented.

He noted that it was a great error on the part of the government to have omitted the business of freight forwarding and customs brokerage while working on the Coastal and Inland Shipping Cabotage Act 2003 and the Nigerian Content Act, 2010 both of which

are protectionist and anti-foreign domination laws in the maritime industry and the oil and gas sector of the economy.

While the Cabotage Act stipulates that ships to be used in the coastal and inland trade in the country must be built and registered in Nigeria, owned and manned by Nigerians while the Local Content Act insists that Nigerians must be included in certain services in the oil and gas sector to check the increasing foreign domination.

Investigations showed that in the Republic of Benin for instance, where many Nigerians practice clearing and forwarding business, foreigners all foreigners are excluded from doing certain classes of jobs considered exclusive preserve for indigenes, even

as foreigners are not allowed to go beyond certain points into the CPC. In the face of this major hurdle, what most foreigners including Nigerians have resolved to do is to sublet some aspects of the jobs to the indigenes for which they part with substantial part of the contract value, thus leaving them with little or nothing.

Shittu therefore called on the Federal Government to take urgent steps to curtail the influx of foreigners into the clearing and forwarding jobs, which has over the years thrown many Nigerians out of business since they cannot compete with the better funded foreigners thereby worsening the unemployment problems in the country.

Ship owners lament certificate scams in maritime industry

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hipowners Association of Nigeria SOAN, a body of fully indigenously-owned shipping companies, has bemoaned the prevalence of fake and questionable certificates in the maritime industry, alleging that no fewer than 4,000 ship crew members operating in the country lack genuine certificates.

President of the association, Engineer Greg Ogbeifun, who decried the dearth of manpower in the industry while speaking with newsmen in Lagos, said that most indigenous ship owners operating in the country have the challenge of employing seafarers of Nigerian origin in line with the Provisions of the Coastal and Inland Shipping Cabotage Act 2003.

The Act, which seeks to enhance indigenous participation in the nation’s shipping industry provides that vessels to be used

under the Cabotage regime must be built in Nigeria, registered in Nigeria, owned and manned by Nigeria, which is part of government’s deliberate policies to reduce foreign domination.

According to the president, the Nigerian ship owners are therefore left with the challenge of trying to identify truly well trained and qualified seafarers to man their ships.

He however commended the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency NIMASA, the apex maritime regulatory agency also charged with the duty of certifying the seafarers for developing a platform to ascertain the authenticity of a seafarer’s certificate within 24 hours.

“This challenge has largely addressed by NIMASA, which has put in place a screening system and from the comfort of your of-

fice, you are able to ascertain the genuineness of a seafarer’s qualification, which before now posed a serious challenge to the ship owner”, he said emphatically.

He traced the current challenges faced in the training of indigenous seafarers to the demise of the Nigerian National Shipping Line NNSL, which at a point in time had over 27 ocean going vessels, which provided berth spaces for Nigerian cadets to enable them acquire their Certificate of Competency CoC, without which they cannot secure good jobs on ocean going vessels He also said: “The status quo will remain until the indigenous ship owners were assisted to grow their fleet, which would in turn provide scores of job opportunities for the nation’ teeming youth population”.

Apart from the demise of the NNSL, he also blamed the diffi-

culty encountered in the training of seafarers on the challenges faced by the Maritime Academy of Nigeria, MAN, Oron, Akwa Ibom State occasioned by government’s interference in the running of the academy, especially poor funding.

Ogbeifun, who is CEO of Starz Group, which is made up of a thriving indigenous shipping company and a dry dock and ship repair yard in Onne, also took a swipe at the Nigerian Ports Authority NPA, which had a training institution before political independence in 1960.

“It is hard to believe that NPA once had an International Maritime School and by the late 1960s, all the harbor crafts including the two coal carriers from Port Harcourt to Lagos MV Tafawa Balewa and MV Enugu were all fully managed by Nigerians”, he lamented.

IMO Assembly to ratify new Secretary General’s election

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he General Assembly, which is the highest decision making organ of the International Maritime Organisation, IMO, will in December ratify the election of Mr. Ki-tack Lim’s election as the new Secretary-General of the agency.

The organization is an organ of the United Nations, charged with global maritime regulation.

The election of the new scribe was part of the high points of the ongoing 114th session of the 40-member Council of the IMO, which began last Monday and is expected to end today.

The decision of the Council will be submitted to the IMO Assembly, which meets for its 29th session from 23 November to December 2, 2015, for approval.

Lim, the Republic of Korea- born maritime technocrat, who was elected for an initial term of four years, succeeds the incumbent Koji Sekimizu, whose four-year tenure ends December 31, 2015, following his decision not to seek re-election in order to attend to family issues.

Lim, who is currently president of Busan Port Authority, defeated five other contestants to emerge winner comprising Mr. Andreas Chrysostomou of the Republic of Cyprus, Mr. Vitaly Klyuev of the Russian Federation and Dr. Maximo Q. Mejia, Jr. of the Republic of the Philippines.

Others include Mr. Andreas Nordseth, who hails from Kingdom of Denmark and Mr. Juvenal Shiundu of the Republic of Kenya, the only African, who participated in the race.

Lim served as the Republic of Korea’s Deputy Permanent RepreK ssentative to IMO from 2006 to 2009 and was chairman of the Sub-Coma mittee on Flag State Implementam ttion FSI, from 2002 to 2004.

He was born in Masan, Gyeongssangnam-do, one of the major port cities in the Republic of Korea and c majored in Nautical Science at the m Korea Maritime and Ocean UniverK ssity KMOU, Busan, graduating in 11977.

Ki-tack LIM

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Business News

Friday, July 3, 2015

41

We’ll create enabling environment for businesses -Buhari ROTIMI FADEYI, ABUJA

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resident Muhammadu Buhari yesterday said that his administration would take all necessary actions to significantly improve the operating environment for domestic and international companies as part of its efforts to boost employment and properly position

the nation’s economy on the path of sustainable growth.

The President, who gave the assurance when the new Japanese Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Sadanobu Kusaoke, present his letters of credence to him at the Presidential Villa, said that his administration would welcome greater investment inflows from Japan and other developed nations in support of its plans to

revitalize the Nigerian economy.

The President told Kusaoke that his administration would particularly welcome more trade and economic cooperation with Japan in the manufacturing, technology and agricultural sectors.

The President said: “I was very impressed with the role your Prime Minister played at our talks with G-7 leaders in Germany. He

had a deep understanding of the challenge in the North-East of Nigeria and how it is affecting our economy.

“We look forward to a stronger partnership with your country in many areas, especially in technology, which is now the major driver of job creation across the world today”, Buhari added.

At the occasion, the President also received the letters of cre-

dence of the new Ambassador of Ukraine, Dr. Valerii Aleksandruk and the new High Commissioner of Pakistan, Agha Muhammed Umer Farooq.

All the new envoys assured Buhari that they would work very hard to maintain and strengthen existing relations between Nigeria and their respective countries during their tenure.

CBN tasks FSRCC on promoting sustainable finance

World Bank approves $200m for Lagos to improve public finance

UDO ONYEKA

TOLA AKINMUTIMI

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entral Bank of Nigeria, CBN, has urged Financial Services Regulation Coordination Committee, FSRCC, member-agencies to support and promote the evolution of an economy driven by sustainable finance.

This charge was given by the CBN Governor, Godwin Emefiele, at a sustainable finance training for FSRCC member agencies in Abuja.

The Governor, who was represented by his Special Adviser on sustainable banking, Dr A’isha Usman Mahmood, said although the Nigerian Financial sector had

signalled its commitment to sustainability by the adoption and implementation of the Nigeria Sustainable Banking Principles, NSBP, there was still the need to move from business-as-usual to a sustainable future through the uptake of triple bottom line practices.

According to him, the integration of sustainability aspects into Financial Services Regulations is a strong driver for the regulators to take a leading role in creating a more sustainable and inclusive economy, adding that the “Financial Services Regulators have an integral role to play in the acceleration to a sustainable growth and make a positive difference to the future generations.”

Emefiele explained: “While the financial sector has a one-dimensional goal of maximisation of profits and return on investment, sustainable development concepts pursue a balance between environmental protection, social equity and economic development.

“As a result of the growing evidence on the positive nexus between environmental and social management and improved economic performance, an increasing number of financial institutions worldwide are adopting sustainable finance practices to ensure that economic development is not achieved at a cost to our ecosystem and our future generations”, he added.

Nduka Mba-Uzoukwu, Divisional Head, Service Management, Keystone Bank Limited and Uzoma Dozie, Managing Director, Diamond Bank Plc, at the Card Expo Award 2015 in Lagos, where Keystone Bank won the Best Achievement in Customer Service award.

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he World Bank Board of Executive Directors on Tuesday approved US$200 million credit to Lagos State to support a range of reforms pertaining to fiscal sustainability, budget planning, budget execution, and the investment climate.

The Bank stated that the operation will help sustain the state’s recent economic growth and poverty reduction while continuing to deliver social services to the city’s expanding population.

The credit from the International Development Association (IDA) supports the Third Lagos State Development Policy Operation, is the last of a series of two development policy operations which aim to improve public finances and the investment climate in a fiscally sustainable manner.

In the past decade Lagos State achieved significant economic growth, improved its infrastructure and services, significantly reduced crime, and brought millions of people out of poverty.

World Bank Task Team Leaderfor this Project, Jariya Hoffman, said that the “operation’s focus on furthering improvements in the transparency of the budget system, effectiveness of public expenditures, and the business climate will help sustain the pace of economic growth and thus

the state’s positive momentum towards income equality and the delivery of public services.

“With enhanced budget transparency and efficiency, adequate funding can be shifted to programs to benefit the state’s booming population, especially the poorest families,” Hoffman added.

The World Bank Group stated further that the operation would enhance the state government’s fiscal sustainability by anchoring the budget in a framework that accounts for key fiscal risks and improves revenue collection.

“Support for adopting a new approach to budget planning and preparation will ensure adequate allocation of budgetary resources to social services such as education and health. Support for reforms of budget execution including increased operationalization of the Oracle-based Financial Management System as well as reform of public procurement will create greater transparency and efficiency in the use of budget resources. “ In addition, to budgetary improvements, the project’s support for a reduction in the cost of land transactions as well as the development and introduction of an electronic web-based system for processing of planning permits will help to improve the business climate and attract new investments” it stated.

Elumelu urges African leaders, stakeholders on power shortage DAVID AUDU

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igeria’s businessman and philanthropist, Tony Elumelu, has advocated a need for renewed commitment by stakeholders in the African economy to improve electricity and by implication, reduce the deepening poverty level in the continent.

Elumelu, who is the chairman of Heirs Holdings and founder of the Tony Elumelu Foundation, canvassed the imperative of miti-

gating the continents protracted power supply problem during the maiden African Energy Leaders Group’s , AELG’s, meeting held on Tuesday in Abidjan, Cote d’Ivorie.

Elumelu is a founding partner and Co-chair of the AELG, which other founding partners include, Ivoirian President, Allasane Ouattara; Ghanaian President John Mahama; President, African Development Bank, Dr Donald Kaberuka; President & CEO, the Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko

Dangote; President, ECOWAS Commission, Kadre Desire Ouedraogo; and President UEMOA, Cheikhe Hadjibou Soumare.

Making a pledge to provide $150,000 over the next three years to support the operations of the AELG secretariat, Elumelu called on the governments of the member states of the ECOWAS region, and AELG members and partners to also step up with significant multi-year commitments to sustain the organization.

Following Elumelu’s lead,

pop superstar, Akon, who was also in attendance at the event to promote his Lighting Africa Initiative, pledged $200,000 to support the work of the AELG secretariat.

The AELG was launched during the 2015 World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, with the objectives of bringing together African political and business leaders at the highest level to drive the reforms and investment needed to end energy poverty and to ensure sustainable fuel

supplies on the continent.

The key goal of AELG is providing access for all Africans to reliable, affordable energy services and efficient appliances by 2030. The AELG objective of ensuring universal access to modern energy is in line with those of the United Nations Sustainable Energy for All (SE4All) initiative run by the UN Secretary General’s Special Representative Kandeh Yumkella, one of the champions of the AELG.

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Friday, July 3, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

CBN vows to curb smuggling of foreign currencies TOLA AKINMUTIMI

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he Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, yesterday assured of its determination to contain all forms of cross-border smuggling of foreign currencies out of the country as part of its ongoing efforts to stabilize the foreign exchange markets and protect the nation’s currency from further depreciation.

The apex bank pointed out, in a statement posted on its website, that it had uncovered unwholesome practice of movements of

…..says BDCs can’t fund excluded import items huge foreign currency cash across Nigerian borders by individuals and corporate bodies without compliance to extant law of declaration to the appropriate authorities.

It assured its determination to ensure compliance to the provisions of the law by collaborating with other relevant agencies of government.

This is just as it also directed licensed Bureaux De Change, BDCs, not to fund import transac-

tions recently classified “Not Valid for Foreign Exchange” in any of the segments of the Nigerian foreign exchange market.

The Bank stated further that the clarification became imperative in order to clarify public misunderstanding arising from its circular in respect of affected items and the need to keep the public properly informed about the contents of the circular.

According to the Bank, the misconception has to do with the

fact that some importers believe that they can access Bureau De Change (BDCs) segment for funding of those classified items.

It clarified: “For the avoidance of doubt, the Central of Nigeria has directed that BDCs are not authorized to fund import transactions in any form whatsoever, either by cash or wire transfer.

Accordingly, authorized dealers are hereby barred from effecting wire transfers from the account of their BDCs’ customers hence-

forth.

“The Bank however, stated that the BDCs are only authorized to deal in foreign currency cash and to sell not more than US$5000.00 to an individual customer and strictly for the following transactions: i) Business Travel/Personal Travel Allowance ii) Monthly mortgage payment iii) School fees abroad iv) Credit card payment v) Utility bills vi) Life insurance premium payment”, it added.

FCMB opens Amuwo Odofin branch

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L-R: Former presidents of Nigeria and Ghana Olusegun Obasanjo; John Kufuor; President of Cote D’Ivoire Alassane Ouattara, Co-Chair of the Africa Energy Leaders Group (AELG); Tony O. Elumelu, Chairman of Heirs Holdings and Co-Chair of the AELG); Vice President of Nigeria Yemi Osinbajo during the inaugural meeting of the AELG to discuss regional solutions to the electricity deficit in Africa on Monday in Abidjan.

Expert asks FG to create Software Copyright Commission ISAIAH ERHIAWARIEN

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software developer, Emmanuel Amos, has called on the Federal Government to establish a Software Copyright Commission, SCC, in order to effectively tackle the growing menace of software piracy in the country.

Speaking to the National Mirror in an interview, Amos, who is also the Founder and President Programos Software Group Limited, said that the country was currently not winning the war against software piracy because the law enforcement agencies and legal practitioners lacked the capacity to fight offenders.

According to him, a software protection body is in a better position to secure the right of digital intellectual property saying that the Nigeria Copy Commission is well enabled to do that.

He said that the current copyright law was not inclusive enough for abstract professions

like the software profession noting that “many other software developers in this country also suffer this silently and helplessly from the attack of software pirate but would not talk.”

Amos pointed out that although there may be related law but that such laws may just be effective in the fight against software piracy saying that agencies like the Nigerian Technology Development Agency, NITDA, and National Office of Technology Acquisition and Promotion, NOTAP, could control the menace if empowered.

Referring to a recent discussion he had with a security operative whereby there was a display of lack of knowledge about software, he said that only a Commission on it can properly educate and inform security agencies on the protection of digital intellectual.

He disclosed that infringement on digital intellectual property is a great lost to the owner of that property stating

that many software development companies in the country have been grounded as a result of software piracy.

irst City Monument Bank (FCMB) Limited has opened a new branch in Amuwo Odofin, Lagos.

The Bank stated that the branch network expansion initiative was part of its commitment towards bringing banking services directly to the door step of its customers and residents in the community as well as ensuring that existing and potential customers continue to enjoy the valued-added offerings it is noted for over the years.

Apart from the experienced financial experts at the branch, it is equipped with unique physical and technological infrastructures that will ensure convenient transaction banking and sundry financial service delivery to customers in a relaxed and tranquil environment.

In her address at the commissioning ceremony on Wednesday, the FCMB Regional Director, Lagos, Mrs. Bukola Smith, said that FCMB was committed more than ever to serving more Nigerians and in the process is creating op-

portunities for them to realize their individual and business aspirations.

According to her, the initiative is in line with its leading position in the retail banking segment.

She said: “We are determined to achieve this by ensuring that all segments of the society have access to banking opportunities through the provision of excellent services and value-added products that will enhance customer experience’’, she said. Mrs. Smith further assured that the bank will continue to raise the bar in the manner in which customers are served and the kind of environment under which such services are provided to meet their respective lifestyles.

Also speaking, the Bank’s Group Head, Channels & Change Management, Mr. Oluwakayode Adigun, said that “this additional customer touch point will further complement our effort in providing customers with simple, helpful and reliable banking services, in a conducive and convenient manner.

UBA asks govts to diversify economy as revenue declines JOHNSON OKANLAWON

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he Executive Director, Treasury and International Banking of United Bank for Africa, UBA, has called on the Federal and State governments to move to diversify the productive base and foreign exchange earnings of the Nigerian economy in order to overcome the challenges brought about by dwindling revenues from crude oil sales.

Speaking as one of the panel discussants at the Bloomberg/ Nigerian Stock Exchange CEO Roundtable on the banking and oil industry, he noted dwindling

oil prices around the globe poses serious challenges to a developing economy like Nigeria, hence the need for government to also consider various diversification options.

According to him, further devaluation of the naira is imminent and it will make the importation of goods into the country more expensive, encourage local manufacturing and inflow of foreign capital.

He assured that Nigerian banks have been strengthened over the last few years and are now well positioned to fund new opportunities that the country may wish to explore as a result of dwindling oil prices.

“We have a banking system that is today a lot stronger than what it was 10 years ago. Whether in power infrastructure, or in the agriculture, Nigerian banks have been able to meet the growing demand for funding,” he said.

He advised that the country needs to leverage on the successful political change of power, and the resulting increased foreign interest in Nigeria to drive economic growth.

While expressing optimism on the growth opportunities available in the Nigerian economy, he urged that the right policies and measures be put in place, to fully tap the increased potential of the Nigerian economy.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Business Features

Friday, July 3, 2015

43

SEC: Revving up capital market’s corporate governance, enforcement drive ….reiterates BGL’s suspension from market activities TOLA AKINMUTIMI

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he past few years have been characterized by sustained efforts of the Securities and Exchange Commission’s (SEC’s) management to restore investors’ confidence in a market that previously could be likened to investors’ ‘Bermuda Triangle’ based on trillions of naira lost by them due to some past regulators’ ineptitude in the then bubbling market.

Yes, the 2008-2009 global financial crisis was disastrous for Nigerian capital market investors. The period was an era of corporate governance anomie when insider abuses, particularly share prices manipulation, led to churning out of superlative reports on the vibrancy of the market in terms of returns on investments.

Penny stocks and others with low value, including forged instruments, were dangled to unwary investors as ‘juicy investment carrots’ by unconscionable dealers and ripped off millions of investors of their hard earned funds. At the end of the bubble, the burst came with market capitalization of about N13 trillion as at March 2008 plummeting to about N6.957 trillion within nine months.

In the process, huge investments of many retail and corporate investors were not only lost, careers were destroyed and even lives lost as unconscionable regulators and their fraudulent corporate collaborators plunged the capital market to its worst cataclysmic recession.

But then, the odious experiences of the past are gradually receding from the memories of investors as the SEC, the market regulator, has become more vigorous in the pursuit of its enforcement and other regulatory roles, to ensure that operational standards in the market conform to global best practices.

Indeed, apart from providing the regulatory frameworks and operational guidelines required to revitalize the market, the Commission has also intensified its monitoring and evaluation processes to ensure that the authorities in the stock exchange promote transparency and adhere strictly to corporate governance principles in all aspects of its operations.

The SEC also unveiled a 10-year Master Plan for the stock exchange to sustain its growth and capacity for long term investment deliverables as well as partnered with other relevant stakeholders, including the Nigeria Bar Association, National Insurance Commission, NAICOM, the Debt Management Office, DMO, and the International Organization of Securities Commissions (IOSCO) amongst others, to strengthen its corporate governance.

For instance, working closely with the authorities of the Nigerian Stock Exchange, NSE, sanctions are being imposed on dealing members from time to

Gwarzo

Onyeama

time with some restrained perpetually from providing professional services at the market.

The results of the Commission’s corporate governance initiatives have been manifesting in the increasing transparency of the market’s operations as scores of stock broking companies and their sponsored individuals and entities who violate post-listing regulatory rules and guidelines are being sanctioned based on their breaches.

Quite commendably, as at March 31 this year at least 39 stock broking companies including some of their Directors and sponsored individuals are being investigated or suspended for varying degrees of infractions that ranged from failure to pay client returns on investments, unauthorized sale of clients’ shares, breach of share purchase and resell agreement, unethical market conduct, and failure to make quarterly rendition of returns as required by the market rules, amongst others.

Some of the companies facing enforcement actions include, International Standards Securities Limited (with its Directors and sponsored individuals); Woodland Capital Market (with its Directors and sponsored individuals) and Elyon Asset Management Limited, Midland Investment and Trust Company Limited, Mayfield Investment Limited, and Foresight Securities and Investment Limited, among others.

Similarly, others whose licences had been revoked for infractions are, Beachgrove Securities Limited and Akitorch Securities Limited, Viva Securities Limited, Haltec Securities Limited and Asset Plus Securities Limited. These and a few others had already closed business.

But by far the most reported case in recent times in the market is the BGL

Group’s. The investigations and current suspension of the BGL group from further dealings in the market until final decisions are taken on the allegations against, demonstrated that the market regulator is determined to sanitise the market, no matter whose ox is gored.

The Commission’s executive management committee at its meeting held on May 19, 2015 suspended BGL group from all market activities following over 40 letters of investor complaints against BGL Group Plc, alleging indebtedness to the tune of about N5.8 billion.

The regulator subsequently directed that BGL Asset Management Limited, BGL Capital Limited and BGL Securities Limited be suspended from all Capital Market activities; that all Sponsored Individuals of BGL Asset Management Limited, BGL Capital Limited and BGL Securities Limited whose particulars are contained in the Commission’s record as at December 2014 be suspended from performing any Capital Market activity.

SEC also directed that the Group Managing Director of BGL group, Mr. Albert Okumagba, was the President, Chartered Institution of Stockbrokers (CIS) should cease to be a registered sponsored Individual with the Commission following the withdrawal of the registration of BGL Plc as a Capital Market Operator, amongst other decisions.

Also, the Commission appointed an interim management board, headed by Mr. Oladipo Aina, a former President of the CIS, for BGL, with Mr. Abubakar Ambursa, Mrs. Hafsat Rufai, Ms. Temitayo Siyanbola and Ms. Tonne Ladipo-Ajayi as other members of the board due to what it termed BGL’s continued reneging on promises to restitute investors and a court order from the Investments and Securities Tribunal (IST).

Last week, the Commission in a statement re-affirmed that the decisions taken on the BGL Capital Limited, BGL Securities Limited, Okumagba and Sponsored Individuals of BGL Asset Management Limited, BGL Capital Limited and BGL Securities Limited’s matters remained in force.

The Commission stated that the management of the company had also been invited to appear before the SEC Administrative Proceedings Committee (APC) on August 4th and 5th this year to explain the allegations of capital market infractions against the group.

It disclosed that preliminary report of the forensic auditors revealed, among other facts, that BGL Group had significant liquidity challenges making it unable to meet its responsibilities towards clients and investors as evidenced by over N11 billion in unpaid matured funds to investors.

Citing the various Federal High Court rulings ordering it to vacate BGL premises and mandating also to reverse the suspension of BGL from capital market activities, the Commission pointed out that the order had since lapsed, given the provision of the Federal High Court rules regarding all interim injunctions obtained ex parte.

Consequently, SEC reiterated that in view of the fact that the interim order has lapsed, BGL Securities Limited, BGL Capital Limited, BGL Asset Management Limited, All BGL Group sponsored individuals (as at December 31st, 2014) and Mr. Albert Okumagba remained suspended from all capital market activities.

As disturbing as various cases of market infractions are given their negative implications for the nation’s economic development, analysts are consensual in their opinions that the move by SEC to promote corporate governance in the market is healthy for investors and the economy.

For instance, while reacting to the BGL Group’s case, the National Coordinator, Independent Shareholders Association of Nigeria (ISAN), Sir Sunny Nwosu, said that the decision was healthy for the market and urged the Commission to make public the full details of its investigations.

Most of the stockbrokers, who pleaded that their names should not be in print, have also endorsed the sanitizing efforts of the SEC which one of them said “will instill discipline in stockbrokers and other operators in the market” Analysts believe that given the professional pedigree and strength of character of the new Director General, Mallam Munir Gwarzo, and the commitment of the Commission’s Board and management to the ongoing sanitization agenda of the market, the desired results will be achieved.

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Friday, July 3, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

FAO, SON partner on food security drive in Africa

Farm produce

STORIES: ABOLAJI ADEBAYO

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he Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, FAO, is collaborating with the Standard Organization of Nigeria, SON, to promote sustainable development of agriculture and food security in Nigeria and other African countries.

The FAO representative in Nigeria, Dr. Louise Setsehwaelo, disclosed this in her keynote Lecture at the Africa Standardisation Day seminar organised by the African Organization for Standardization, ARSO, in Abuja

recently.

While justifying the need for the partnership, Setsehwaelo said that in view of continued increase in human population in Africa, by 2030, Africa will need to feed about 1.5 billion people and by 2050, close to two billion, hence the need for greater focus on agriculture by the various governments to drive inclusive economic growth and food security in Africa.

She said: “African countries still need to do a lot more, both individually and collectively. We have what it takes to move forward, we have the human capac-

ity and other factors needed to drive the economy.”

The Director General, SON, Joseph Odumodu, pointed out that Africa remained the only continent that cannot feed itself fully as it imports some of its food to feed its people.

He noted that it was not debatable if agriculture was important in Nigeria or Africa due to the fact that agriculture provides food, employment and also contributes largely to the national GDP. The SON boss therefore advocated improved collaboration with extension workers and key agriculture stakeholders, while

commenting on the need for the promotion of agricultural best practice to boost the standard of production in Nigeria.

Odumodu also urged the government at all levels to create enabling environment for agriculture to thrive so that the youths can embrace agriculture as career and not as alternative to white collar jobs.

He said that if the youths were fully involved in the agricultural sector, Nigeria in particular would achieve its economic diversification and break away from oil-dependence economy.

Farmers seek continuity of e-wallet scheme

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armers and agric stakeholders have called on the Federal Government to retain the e-Wallet system for input distribution as operated under the past administration in a bid to enhance food security in the country.

The President, Etche Farmers Cooperative Union, Mr. Godwin Akandu, who made the appeal to

government, disclosed that the system enabled farmers to get direct access to agro-products at subsidized rate, noting that beneficiaries were allowed to pay only 50 per cent on agro-products, while the State and Federal Government covered the balance.

He said: “Federal Government had always made efforts to boost agricultural outputs in the coun-

try but these efforts had not been directly channeled to the right beneficiaries – farmers, until the introduction of the e-wallet system, which allowed every farmer to register as cooperative unions to benefit from the fertilizer distribution scheme.

Akandu noted that the e-wallet fertilizer distribution process had improved agricultural out-

put as fertilizers were no longer diverted or sold at high rates to the local farmers.

The e-wallet scheme was introduced by the immediate past Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development and current President of African Development Bank (AfDB), Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, to enable agriculture thrive in the country.

FOREIGN BRIEFS

South Africa is food self-sufficient –KPMG report

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urrently, South Africa is the only country in Africa to boast food selfsufficiency, a recent report by KPMG revealed.

With a robust and productive agricultural sector, the importance on agriculture in modernday South African cannot be overstated.

KPMG’s highly informative blog post on the state of agriculture in South Africa reveals how farming is a crucial contributor to the local economy. The KPMG report further finds that not only is SA food secure, but is also a net food exporter. In effect, South Africa practises a “dual agricultural economy,” with both welldeveloped commercial farming properties and more subsistencebased production in the deeply rural areas.

Furthermore, the Academy for Environmental Learning (AEL) is opening its doors in January of 2016 in the Upington area, which is quickly becoming SA’s new green energy hub. AEL’s course content is perfectly positioned to offer prospective students an allround education in agriculture in order to aid their future careers in conservation. The AEL course runs for a year and consists of an academic section representing approximately 80% of the year program, which will include practical routines, fieldwork and research.

AEL Director Fef le Roux states: “We shall equip young people who have finished school with the necessary training to become leading role players in the preservation of South Africa’s agricultural status quo and who are also aware of the importance of being kind to the environment.

“Our aim is to provide a facility to post-matric students who are passionate and concerned about the health of the environment with the hope of nurturing in them an understanding of the environment and a concern to manage it in the future.”

AEL is being set up in such a way so as to face the challenges of environmental conservation head-on. Founders Fef le Roux and Dave Pepler, as well as the rest of team at AEL realise the monumental importance of environmentally sustainable agriculture in South Africa and will strive to instil these values into the prospective students of 2016.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Capital Market

Friday, July 3, 2015

45

Equities market dips 0.3%

... as Transcorp Hotel leads losers’ chart Johnson okanlawon

T

rading on the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) yesterday ended on a negative note as market indicators depreciated by 0.3 percent Specifically, the Market Capitalisation depreciated by N42 billion to close at N11.176 trillion as against N11.218 trillion posted the preceding day.

Also, the All-Share Index lost 124.32 points to stand at 32,739.11 as against 32,863.43 points

lost on Wednesday.

Transcorp Hotel Plc topped the price losers’ chart, shedding 84 kobo to close at N7.86 per share, Red Star Express followed with 25 kobo to close at N4.75, while Champion Plc declined by 31 kobo to close at N5.94 per share. Fidson and A.G Leventis lost 17 kobo and seven kobo to close at N3.33 and N1.40 respectively Despite the bearish trend of the market, PZ Cussons led the price gainers’ table, growing

by N1.52 to close at N31.97 per share, followed by Portland Paints Plc which gained 22 kobo to close at N4.67, while Academy Press appreciated by four kobo to close at 91 kobo per share.

Other gainers were Vono Products Plc rose by five kobo to close at N1.14, while Nascon Plc was up by 31 kobo to close at N8.00 per share.

In terms of active stocks by volume categorization, Access Bank Plc emerged the most active, exchanging 46.68 million

shares worth N250.58 million, while Zenith Bank Plc followed with 16.87 million shares valued at N327.99, and Diamond Bank Plc came third with 16.37 million shares worth N65.74 million.

FBN Holdings accounted for 10.16 million shares valued at N79.71 million, compared to AIICO Insurance Plc’s traded 10.32 million shares valued at N9.52 million.

Totally, investors traded 186.73 million shares worth N1.76 trillion exchanged in 3,257 deals.

Stanbic IBTC Asset Management clinches Mutual Fund Provider award

S

tanbic IBTC Asset Management Limited, a subsidiary of Stanbic IBTC Holdings Plc, has won ‘Best Mutual Fund Provider Nigeria 2015’ and ‘Best Non Pension Fund Manager Nigeria 2015.’

The winners were announced at a gala dinner and awards ceremony in London recently.

Organized by Global Banking & Finance Review, an online banking and finance performance review platform, the awards recognized achievements and innovations by companies in the global financial community, cutting across banking, Islamic finance, hedge funds, asset and wealth management, real estate, and corporate social responsibility,

among others.

Commenting on this year’s award, Wanda Rich, Editor of the online medium, stated: “Stanbic IBTC Asset Management Limited’s dedication to excellence throughout its investment advisory and management services is what made them stand out as the clear winner this year,” adding his company looks “forward to seeing further industry-leading solutions from them in the years to come.”

With three of Nigeria’s largest and most prominent mutual funds under its management, Stanbic IBTC Asset Management Limited is by far the country’s leading asset management company.

The categories of funds where the firm dominates

include, the Stanbic IBTC Nigerian Equity Fund, Nigeria’s largest equity mutual fund; the Stanbic IBTC Ethical Fund, Nigeria’s first and largest socially responsible mutual fund; and Stanbic IBTC Money Market Fund, which is the largest mutual fund in the country today.

Chief Executive Officer of the company, Olumide Oyetan, who described the award as an incentive to work harder, stated that “the firm remains totally committed to helping Nigerians build a portfolio of financial instruments from which they can use to meet their unique investment objective(s)’’.

He also reiterated “the numerous benefits in investing in mutual funds, especially the expertise that is brought

U

country would need further concessional financing.

“The market seems to be paying more attention to what may happen with Greece as well as whether or not wage growth will pick up,” said Omar Aguilar, chief investment officer of equities at Charles Schwab Investment Management in San Francisco.

Average hourly earnings were unchanged in June, taking the year-on-year increase to a paltry 2.0 per cent.

Nonfarm payrolls increased 223,000 last month, below the 230,000 that economists polled by Reuters had expected.

Aguilar added that people were trying to understand how the payroll numbers

may affect the way the Fed may act in September.

The Fed, which has kept short-term rates near zero since December 2008, has said it will raise rates only if it sees a sustained economic recovery. An interest rate hike could increase borrowing costs for companies.

“It is a slightly disappointing payroll number. If anything, it buys the Fed a little more time before the first rate hike,” said Wilmer Stith, a fixed income portfolio manager at Wilmington Trust in Baltimore.

At 12:04 a.m. EDT the Dow Jones industrial average was down 21.15 points, or 0.12 per cent, at 17,736.76, the S&P 500 was down 1.89 points, or 0.09 per cent, at

Inter-Bank Rate Naira

US Dollar

$1

N196.95 Market indicators All-Share Index 32,739.11 points Market capitalisation 11.18trn

Stock Updates GAINERS

to bear in maximizing returns to investors without compromising safety”.

Having managed funds on behalf of savings schemes, institutional and corporates mandates and high net-worth individuals for over two decades, Oyetan said that the company had impeccable performance record in the Nigerian investment field.

He assured that the asset management entity “will continue to take advantage of market movement by buying attractively priced securities which are usually trading at a substantial discount relative to their intrinsic value to eventually benefit from a subsequent re-pricing or re-rating.”

Wall St. turns negative as IMF warns on Greece .S. stocks turned negative after the International Monetary Fund warned Greece may need a further large debt writeoff, and weak U.S. jobs data dampened the economic outlook.

Six of the 10 major S&P sectors were in the red by midday, after opening positive.

IMF’s warning comes as Greece readies for a Sunday referendum on an international bailout deal that Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras has urged voters to reject.

The fund said that even if Greek policies came back on track, loans made by Europe “will need to be extended significantly” and that the

Source: NSE

COMPANY

OPENING

CLOSING

CHANGE

% CHANGE

PZ

30.45

31.97

1.52

4.99

PORTPAINT

4.45

4.67

0.22

4.94

ACADEMY

0.87

0.91

0.04

4.60

VONO

1.09

1.14

0.05

4.59

NASCON

7.69

8.00

0.31

4.03

AFRIPRUD

2.70

2.78

0.08

2.96

NEM

0.72

0.74

0.02

2.78

CCNN

10.71

11.00

0.29

2.71

FBNH

7.80

8.00

0.20

2.56

AIICO

0.92

0.94

0.02

2.17

CHANGE

% CHANGE

LOSERS COMPANY

OPENING

TRANSCOHOT

8.70

7.86

-0.84

-9.66

REDSTAREX

5.00

4.75

-0.25

-5.00

CHAMPION

6.25

5.94

-0.31

-4.96

FIDSON

3.50

3.33

-0.17

-4.86

AGLEVENT

1.47

1.40

-0.07

-4.76

NEIMETH

1.28

1.22

-0.06

-4.69

FIDELITYBK

1.74

1.66

-0.08

-4.60

MANSARD

2.83

2.70

-0.13

-4.59

GUINNESS

160.28

153.00

-7.28

-4.54

CUTIX

1.57

1.50

-0.07

-4.46

FGN Bonds

Rate (%) Inflation

8.2

MPR

13

Crude oil price

$58.96

Offer

Bid

Description

2,075.53 and the Nasdaq Composite was down 13.37 points, or 0.27 per cent, at 4,999.75.

CLOSING

Price

Yield

Price

Yield

13.05 16-AUG-2016

1.14

98.74

14.24

98.89

14.09

15.10 27-APR-2017

1.84

101.25

14.27

101.40

14.17

16.00 29-JUN-2019

4.01

104.81

14.38

105.11

14.28

15.54 13-FEB-2020

4.64

102.69

14.70

102.99

14.61

16.39 27-JAN-2022

6.59

108.42

14.36

108.72

14.29

14.20 14-MAR-2024

8.72

100.17

14.15

100.47

14.09

Closing Market Prices of June 25, 2015

Treasury Bills Maturity Date

Bid

Offer

Exchange

Rates (N)

24-Sep-15

11.23

11.55

WAUA

270

USD

197

17-Dec-15

11.02

11.63

EURO

214

02-Jun-16

12.88

14.66

CFA

0.32

YEN

1.64

Tenor

Rate (%)

SWISS FRANC

202

O/N

11.1250

POUNDS STERLING

293

1M

15.7222

3M

16.7750

SDR

273

6M

17.9716

NIBOR

The Fixings of June 25, 2015

Capital Market

46

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Friday, July 3, 2015

Stock exchange daily equities summary Daily Summary as of 02/07/2015

Printed 02/07/2015 14:47:51.051

Daily Summary (Bonds)

Activity Summary on Board DEBT Bond Name 14.20% FGN MAR 2024 Federal Totals

Symbol FG112024S1

No. of Deals 1 1

DEBT Board Totals Bond Activity Totals

1st Tier Securities Sector

Company name

Current Price 100.00

Quantity Traded 500 500

Value Traded 521,994.07 521,994.07

1

500

521,994.07

1

500

521,994.07

Quotation(N)

Quantity Traded

Value of Shares(N)

Activity Summary on Board EQTY AGRICULTURE Daily Summary as of 02/07/2015 Crop Production Printed 02/07/2015 14:47:51.051 FTN COCOA PROCESSORS PLC OKOMU OIL PALM PLC. PRESCO PLC Crop Production Totals Livestock/Animal Specialties LIVESTOCK PLC.EQTY Activity SummaryFEEDS on Board Livestock/Animal Specialties Totals CONGLOMERATES AGRICULTURE Totals Diversified Industries A.G. LEVENTIS NIGERIA PLC. TRANSNATIONAL CORPORATION OF NIGERIA PLC U A C N PLC. Diversified Industries Totals Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange © CONGLOMERATES Totals CONSTRUCTION/REAL ESTATE Building Structure/Completion/Other COSTAIN (W A) PLC. Building Structure/Completion/Other Totals Infrastructure/Heavy Construction JULIUS BERGER NIG. PLC. Daily Summary as of 02/07/2015 Infrastructure/Heavy Construction Totals Printed 02/07/2015 14:47:51.051 Real Estate Development UACN PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT CO. LIMITED Real Estate Development Totals

Symbol FTNCOCOA OKOMUOIL PRESCO

No. of Deals 2 16 5 23

Current Price 0.50 28.99 35.00

Quantity Traded 100,000 241,930 80,500 422,430

Value Traded 50,000.00 6,940,373.31 2,817,781.09 9,808,154.40

Symbol LIVESTOCK

No. of Deals 29 29

Current Price 2.30

Quantity Traded 2,713,410 2,713,410

Value Traded 6,621,639.70 6,621,639.70

Symbol AGLEVENT TRANSCORP UACN

52 Current Price No. of Deals 3 1.40 102 2.73 56 42.50 161

Daily Summary (Equities)

161

3,135,840 Quantity Traded 121,000 6,278,447 433,913 6,833,360 Page

16,429,794.10 Value Traded 169,400.00 16,905,971.73 18,477,558.93 35,552,930.66 15 1 of

6,833,360

35,552,930.66

Symbol COSTAIN

No. of Deals 10 10

Current Price 0.75

Quantity Traded 158,960 158,960

Value Traded 120,404.63 120,404.63

Symbol JBERGER

No. of Deals 13 13

Current Price 48.50

Quantity Traded 6,877 6,877

Value Traded 324,074.48 324,074.48

Symbol UAC-PROP

No. of Deals 25 25

Current Price 10.20

Quantity Traded 237,670 237,670

Value Traded 2,444,422.31 2,444,422.31

403,507

2,888,901.42

Current Price 0.50 Current Price

Quantity Traded Quantity233,082 Traded

Value Traded 116,541.00 Value Traded

Daily Summary (Equities)

CONSTRUCTION/REAL ESTATE Totals

48

Activity Summary on Board EQTY CONSUMER GOODS Automobiles/Auto CONSUMER GOODS Parts DN TYRE & RUBBER Automobiles/Auto PartsPLC

Symbol DUNLOP Symbol

No. of Deals 1 No. of Deals

Symbol CHAMPION GUINNESS INTBREW NB PREMBREW

No. of Deals 13 51 9 79 1 153

Current Price 5.94 153.00 19.50 145.05 3.26

Page Quantity Traded 288,500 166,394 203,403 861,217 2,000 1,521,514

Symbol 7UP

No. of Deals 17 17

Current Price 183.00

Quantity Traded 40,371 40,371

Value Traded 7,362,744.37 7,362,744.37

No. of Deals 28 29 43 13 (Equities) 29 1 143

Current Price 3.80 6.66 33.50 3.50 8.00 18.05

Quantity Traded 131,438 586,398 135,157 196,174 1,584,658 20 2,633,845

Value Traded 503,966.82 3,930,261.55 4,510,678.95 685,358.64 12,665,318.60 343.00 22,295,927.56

No. of Deals 17 No. of Deals

Current Price 35.05 Current Price

Quantity Traded 55,039 Quantity Traded

Value Traded 1,840,921.90 Value Traded

27 44

850.00

Automobiles/Auto Parts Totals Published byBeverages--Brewers/Distillers The Nigerian Stock Exchange © CHAMPION BREW. PLC. GUINNESS NIG PLC INTERNATIONAL BREWERIES PLC. NIGERIAN BREW. PLC. PREMIER BREWERIES PLC Beverages--Brewers/Distillers Totals Beverages--Non-Alcoholic 7-UP BOTTLING COMP. PLC. Beverages--Non-Alcoholic Totals Food Products Daily Summary as of 02/07/2015

DANGOTE FLOUR MILLS PLC Printed 02/07/2015 14:47:51.051 DANGOTE SUGAR REFINERY PLC FLOUR MILLS NIG. PLC. HONEYWELL FLOUR MILL PLC NATIONAL SALT CO. NIG. PLC N NIG. FLOUR MILLS PLC. FoodSummary Products Totals Activity on Board EQTY Food Products--Diversified CONSUMER GOODS CADBURY NIGERIA PLC. Food Products--Diversified NESTLE NIGERIA PLC.

1

Symbol DANGFLOUR DANGSUGAR FLOURMILL HONYFLOUR Daily Summary NASCON NNFM

Symbol CADBURY Symbol NESTLE

Food Totals Published by TheProducts--Diversified Nigerian Stock Exchange ©

233,082

31,102 86,141 Page

116,541.00 15 2Value Traded of 1,720,680.00 25,750,199.12 3,963,462.00 126,506,267.70 6,200.00 157,946,808.82

26,467,076.55 15 328,307,998.45 of

Household Durables VITAFOAM NIG PLC. VONO PRODUCTS PLC. Household Durables Totals

Symbol VITAFOAM VONO

No. of Deals 31 5 36

Current Price 5.55 1.14

Quantity Traded 940,935 151,000 1,091,935

Value Traded 5,167,041.50 167,540.00 5,334,581.50

Personal/Household Products P Z CUSSONS NIGERIA PLC. UNILEVER NIGERIA PLC. Personal/Household Products Totals

Symbol PZ UNILEVER

No. of Deals 33 23 56

Current Price 31.97 43.50

Quantity Traded 317,506 197,300 514,806

Value Traded 9,954,386.37 8,467,415.24 18,421,801.61

6,121,694

239,786,403.31

CONSUMER GOODS Totals

450

Daily Summary as of 02/07/2015

FINANCIAL SERVICES Printed 02/07/2015 14:47:51.051 Banking ACCESS BANK PLC. Daily Summary as of 02/07/2015 DIAMOND BANK PLC Printed 02/07/2015 14:47:51.051 ECOBANK TRANSNATIONAL INCORPORATED FIDELITY BANK PLC GUARANTY TRUST BANK PLC. Activity Summary on Board EQTY SKYE BANK PLC STERLING BANK PLC. FINANCIAL SERVICES UNITED BANK FOR AFRICA PLC Banking

Activity Summary on Board EQTY UNION BANK NIG.PLC.

BANKStock PLC Exchange © Published

by UNITY The Nigerian FINANCIAL SERVICES WEMA BANK PLC. Banking

ZENITH INTERNATIONAL BANK PLC Banking Totals

Symbol No. of Deals Current Price Quantity Traded ACCESS 216 5.29 46,681,830 DIAMONDBNK 24 4.19 16,376,255 ETISummary (Equities) 63 22.00 712,065 Daily FIDELITYBK 60 1.66 4,475,074 GUARANTY 242 26.95 7,486,763 SKYEBANK 44 2.29 1,749,504 Daily Summary (Equities) STERLNBANK 109 2.05 1,942,698 UBA 110 Current Price 4.77 Quantity 7,662,916 Symbol No. of Deals Traded UBN 45 9.31 138,848 Page UNITYBNK 61 2.46 9,837,043 WEMABANK 18 Current Price 0.94 Quantity 685,355 Symbol No. of Deals Traded ZENITHBANK 234 19.45 16,878,199 1,226 114,626,550

Insurance Carriers, Brokers and Services Symbol AIICO INSURANCE PLC. AIICO CONTINENTAL REINSURANCE PLC CONTINSURE CORNERSTONE INSURANCE COMPANY PLC. CORNERST EQUITY ASSURANCE PLC. EQUITYASUR GUINEA INSURANCE PLC. GUINEAINS CONSOLIDATED HALLMARK INSURANCE PLC HMARKINS INTERNATIONAL ENERGY INSURANCE COMPANY PLC INTENEGINS LASACO ASSURANCE PLC. LASACO LAW UNION AND ROCK INS. PLC. LAWUNION LINKAGE ASSURANCE PLC LINKASSURE Daily Summary as of 02/07/2015 MANSARD INSURANCE PLC MANSARD Printed 02/07/2015 14:47:51.051 MUTUAL BENEFITS ASSURANCE PLC. MBENEFIT N.E.M INSURANCE CO (NIG) PLC. NEM NIGER INSURANCE CO. PLC. NIGERINS PRESTIGE ASSURANCE CO. PLC. PRESTIGE Daily Summary SOVEREIGN TRUST INSURANCE PLC SOVRENINS STANDARD TRUST ASSURANCE PLC STACO Activity Summary on Board EQTY UNIVERSAL INSURANCE COMPANY PLC UNIVINSURE INSURANCE PLC WAPIC Published

by WAPIC The Nigerian Stock Exchange © FINANCIAL SERVICES Insurance Carriers, Brokers and Services Totals Micro-Finance Banks Symbol NPF MICROFINANCE BANK PLC Micro-Finance BanksExchange Totals © Published by The Nigerian Stock Mortgage Carriers, Brokers and Services ASO SAVINGS AND LOANS PLC UNION HOMES SAVINGS AND LOANS PLC. Mortgage Carriers, Brokers and Services Totals Other Financial Institutions AFRICA PRUDENTIAL REGISTRARS PLC CUSTODIAN AND ALLIED PLC FBN HOLDINGS PLC FCMB GROUP PLC. ROYAL EXCHANGE PLC. STANBIC IBTC HOLDINGS PLC Daily Summary as of 02/07/2015 UBA CAPITAL PLC Printed 02/07/2015 14:47:51.051 Other Financial Institutions Totals

No. of Deals 15 5 3 2 1 1 2 1 1 2 13 4 24 1 2 (Equities) 1 1 1 7 87 No. of Deals

NPFMCRFBK

1 1

HEALTHCARE Pharmaceuticals

Activity Summary on Board EVANS MEDICAL PLC. EQTY FIDSON HEALTHCARE PLC HEALTHCARE GLAXO SMITHKLINE CONSUMER NIG. PLC. Pharmaceuticals MAY & BAKER NIGERIA PLC. Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange © NEIMETH INTERNATIONAL PHARMACEUTICALS PLC Pharmaceuticals Totals

Computers and Peripherals

1,283,522.29 15 4 of 24,482,760.93 641,603.98 Value Traded

327,099,748.61 939,198,566.19

Current Price 0.94 1.00 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 2.70 0.50 0.74 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50

Quantity Traded 10,032,674 61,436 10,600 347,900 295,217 702,897 63,420 229,356 100 45,000 844,200 302,100 2,599,889 10,000 2,600 100 1,000 310,904 Page 2,730,100

Value Traded 9,526,361.46 62,664.72 5,300.00 173,950.00 147,608.50 351,448.50 31,710.00 114,678.00 50.00 22,960.00 2,315,189.62 151,050.00 1,866,459.02 5,000.00 1,300.00 50.00 500.00 155,452.00 15 5 1,365,050.00 of

Current Price 1.05

18,589,493 Quantity Traded 18,000 18,000 Page

16,296,781.82 Value Traded 19,260.00 19,260.00 15 6 of

No. of Deals 2 2 4

Current Price 0.50 5.78

Quantity Traded 534,643 13,594 548,237

Value Traded 267,321.50 74,767.00 342,088.50

Symbol AFRIPRUD CUSTODYINS FBNH FCMB ROYALEX STANBIC UBCAP

No. of Deals 39 22 354 54 3 64 38 574

Current Price 2.78 4.07 8.00 2.98 0.50 25.00 1.41

Quantity Traded 598,382 1,330,000 10,164,033 9,196,572 21,000 4,828,137 377,824 26,515,948

Value Traded 1,648,750.61 5,507,758.20 79,071,041.07 27,209,407.50 10,500.00 120,697,419.74 530,397.02 234,675,274.14

160,298,228

1,190,531,970.65

1,892

Daily Summary (Equities) Symbol EVANSMED FIDSON GLAXOSMITH Symbol MAYBAKER NEIMETH

HEALTHCARE Totals ICT Computer Based Systems COURTEVILLE BUSINESS SOLUTIONS PLC Computer Based Systems Totals

Value Traded 250,581,210.50 65,744,450.30 15,638,997.37 7,434,931.84 201,778,269.13 4,020,716.07 3,918,921.25 36,573,433.92 Value Traded

Symbol ASOSAVINGS UNHOMES

FINANCIAL SERVICES Totals

Daily Summary (Equities)

Activity Summary on Board EQTY

1st Tier Securities

Daily Summary (Equities)

No Of Deals

Daily Summary as of 02/07/2015 Printed 02/07/2015 14:47:51.051

Equities as at July 2, 2015

Federal

No. of Deals Current Price 5 1.10 4 3.33 12 44.00 No. of Deals Current Price 8 1.50 19 1.22 48 48

Quantity Traded 177,575 120,000 284,416 Quantity Traded 134,800 Page 487,443 1,204,234

Value Traded 195,332.50 399,617.00 12,514,366.80 Value Traded 202,368.00 15 7 of 596,020.46 13,907,704.76

1,204,234

13,907,704.76

Sector

HEALTHCARE Company name Pharmaceuticals MAY & BAKER NIGERIA PLC. NEIMETH INTERNATIONAL PHARMACEUTICALS PLC Pharmaceuticals Totals

No. of Deals 1 1

Current Price 0.50

Quantity Traded 100 100

Value Traded 50.00 50.00

Symbol

No. of Deals

Current Price

Quantity Traded

Value Traded

Quotation(N) Quantity Traded Shares(N) No. of Deals Current Price Quantity TradedValue of Value Traded 8 19 48

HEALTHCARE Totals ICT Computer Based Systems COURTEVILLE BUSINESS SOLUTIONS PLC Computer Based Systems Totals Computers and Peripherals OMATEK VENTURES PLC Daily Summary as of 02/07/2015 Computers and Peripherals Totals Printed 02/07/2015 14:47:51.051 Daily Summary as of 02/07/2015 IT Services Printed 02/07/2015 14:47:51.051 COMPUTER WAREHOUSE GROUP PLC IT Services Totals Processing Systems CHAMS PLC Activity Summary on Board EQTY Processing Systems Totals ICT Totals Building Materials INDUSTRIAL GOODS ASHAKA CEM PLC Building Materials BERGER PAINTS PLC Published by The Stock Exchange © CAPNigerian PLC CEMENT CO. OF NORTH.NIG. PLC DANGOTE CEMENT PLC DN MEYER PLC. IPWA PLC PORTLAND PAINTS & PRODUCTS NIGERIA PLC LAFARGE AFRICA PLC. Building Materials Totals Electronic and Electrical Products CUTIX PLC. Daily Summary as of 02/07/2015 Electronic and Electrical Products Totals Printed 02/07/2015 14:47:51.051 Packaging/Containers BETA GLASS CO PLC. Packaging/Containers Totals Tools and Machinery NIGERIAN ROPES PLC Activity Summary on Board EQTY

Metals Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange © ALUMINIUM MANUFACTURING COMPANY PLC Metals Totals Mining Services MULTIVERSE PLC Mining Services Totals Paper/Forest Products THOMAS WYATT NIG. PLC. Paper/Forest Products Totals Daily Summary as of 02/07/2015 Printed 02/07/2015 14:47:51.051 NATURAL RESOURCES Totals OIL AND GAS Energy Equipment and Services JAPAUL OIL & MARITIME SERVICES PLC Energy Equipment and Services Totals

Activity Summary on Board EQTY

Integrated Oil and Gas Services OIL AND GASPLC OANDO PetroleumOil and Petroleum Products Distributors Integrated and Gas Services Totals CONOIL PLC ETERNA PLC. Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange © FORTE OIL PLC. MOBIL OIL NIG PLC. MRS OIL NIGERIA PLC. TOTAL NIGERIA PLC. Petroleum and Petroleum Products Distributors Totals Exploration and Production SEPLAT PETROLEUM DEVELOPMENT COMPANY LTD Exploration and Production Totals Daily Summary of 02/07/2015 OIL ANDas GAS Totals Printed 02/07/2015 14:47:51.051 SERVICES Automobile/Auto Part Retailers R T BRISCOE PLC. Automobile/Auto Part Retailers Totals Courier/Freight/Delivery RED STAR EXPRESS PLC TRANS-NATIONWIDE EXPRESS PLC. SERVICES Courier/Freight/Delivery Employment Solutions Totals C & I LEASING PLC. Employment Solutions Totals

Activity Summary on Board EQTY

134,800 487,443 1,204,234

202,368.00 596,020.46 13,907,704.76

1,204,234

13,907,704.76

Symbol COURTVILLE

No. of Deals 1 1

Current Price 0.50

Quantity Traded 100 100

Value Traded 50.00 50.00

Symbol OMATEK

No. of Deals 1 1

Current Price 0.50

Quantity Traded 100 100

Value Traded 50.00 50.00

Symbol CWG

No. of Deals 2 2

Current Price 3.98

Quantity Traded 500 500

Value Traded 1,895.00 1,895.00

No. of Deals 1 1

Current Price 0.50

Quantity Traded 100 100

Value Traded 50.00 50.00

800 Quantity Traded 198,015 Quantity Traded 50 Page 38,794 421,322 350,500 1,291 525 60,000 99,781 1,170,278

2,045.00 Value Traded 4,406,273.00 Value Traded 534.00 15 8 of 1,440,236.12 4,668,843.72 60,598,925.50 981.16 262.50 280,200.00 10,163,129.40 81,559,385.40

Daily Summary (Equities) Symbol

Daily Summary (Equities) CHAMS

5 No. of Deals 15 No. of Deals 1 27 24 33 1 1 1 35 138

Symbol ASHAKACEM Symbol BERGER CAP CCNN DANGCEM DNMEYER IPWA PORTPAINT WAPCO

Current Price 22.50 Current Price 11.24 41.00 11.00 172.50 0.76 0.50 4.67 103.00

Symbol CUTIX

No. of Deals 5 5

Current Price 1.50

Quantity Traded 258,476 258,476

Value Traded 388,515.00 388,515.00

Symbol BETAGLAS

No. of Deals 2 2

Current Price 36.00

Quantity Traded 2,826 2,826

Value Traded 103,174.80 103,174.80

No. of Deals 1 1

Current Price 7.46

Quantity Traded 100 100

Value Traded 709.00 709.00

146 No. of Deals Current Price 1 4.86 1

1,431,680 Quantity Traded 100 100 Page

82,051,784.20 Value Traded 483.00 483.00 9 of 15

Symbol ALUMACO

No. of Deals 1 1

Current Price 7.75

Quantity Traded Page 200 200

Value Traded 10 of 15 1,474.00 1,474.00

Symbol MULTIVERSE

No. of Deals 2 2

Current Price 0.50

Quantity Traded 315,000 315,000

Value Traded 157,500.00 157,500.00

Symbol THOMASWY

No. of Deals 3 3

Current Price 0.67

Quantity Traded 300 300

Value Traded 192.00 192.00

315,600

159,649.00

Value Traded 15,373.00 15,373.00

Daily Summary (Equities) Symbol NIGROPES

Tools and Machinery Totals

NATURAL RESOURCES INDUSTRIAL GOODS Totals Chemicals B.O.C. GASES PLC. Chemicals Totals Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange ©

1.50 1.22

48

Activity Summary on Board EQTY INDUSTRIAL GOODS

Symbol BOCGAS

7

Symbol JAPAULOIL

No. of Deals 5 5

Current Price 0.50

Quantity Traded 30,746 30,746

Symbol OANDO Symbol CONOIL ETERNA FO MOBIL MRS TOTAL

No. of Deals 182 No. of Deals 182 6 19 65 15 4 1 110

Current Price 15.70 Current Price 40.85 2.45 189.97 150.00 50.54 165.00

Quantity Traded 3,060,811 Quantity Traded 3,060,811 3,792 243,100 Page 344,366 17,944 5,805 191 615,198

Symbol SEPLAT

No. of Deals 36 36

Current Price 343.00

Quantity Traded 189,986 189,986

Value Traded 65,316,045.02 65,316,045.02

3,896,741

180,681,341.00

Daily Summary (Equities)

333

Value Traded 47,806,944.76 Value Traded 47,806,944.76 147,739.42 570,604.56 15 11 of 63,856,806.12 2,658,796.61 278,756.10 30,275.41 67,542,978.22

Symbol RTBRISCOE

No. of Deals 5 5

Current Price 0.77

Quantity Traded 19,806 19,806

Value Traded 14,690.76 14,690.76

Symbol REDSTAREX TRANSEXPR

No. of Deals 9 5 14 No. of Deals

Current Price 4.75 1.27

Quantity Traded 176,430 33,158 Quantity209,588 Traded

Value Traded 841,304.50 40,121.18 881,425.68 Value Traded

1,121,498 1,121,498

590,430.96 590,430.96

Daily Summary (Equities)

Symbol CILEASING

23 23

Current Price 0.52

Hotels/Lodging Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange © IKEJA HOTEL PLC TRANSCORP HOTELS PLC Hotels/Lodging Totals

Symbol IKEJAHOTEL TRANSCOHOT

No. of Deals 1 4 5

Current Price 3.65 7.86

Quantity Traded Page 100 77,002 77,102

Daily Summary as of 02/07/2015 Printing/Publishing Printed 02/07/2015 14:47:51.051 ACADEMY PRESS PLC.

Symbol ACADEMY LEARNAFRCA UPL

No. of Deals 6 1 9 16

Current Price 0.91 1.26 6.03

Quantity Traded 119,449 10,000 123,736 253,185

Value Traded 109,476.55 12,500.00 714,482.00 836,458.55

Symbol ABCTRANS

No. of Deals 16 16

Current Price 0.51

Quantity Traded 907,569 907,569

Value Traded 458,434.08 458,434.08

Symbol Symbol

No. of Deals No. of Deals 5 6 24 29 114

Current Price Current Price 2.08 5.00

Quantity Traded Quantity Traded 60,900 11,246 431,622 492,522 3,092,516

Value Traded Value Traded 124,832.00 34,818.62 2,160,694.90 2,285,526.90 5,711,501.27

No. of Deals 3,2566 No. of Deals (Equities) 6

Current Price 3.42 Current Price

Quantity Traded Value Traded 186,734,200 1,767,704,025.37 11,246 34,818.62 Quantity Traded Value Traded 11,246 34,818.62 15 Page 13 of 3,092,516 5,711,501.27

Current Price 1.50

Quantity Traded 100 100

LEARN AFRICA PLC UNIVERSITY PRESS PLC. Printing/Publishing Totals Roadas Transportation Daily Summary of 02/07/2015 ASSOCIATED BUS COMPANY PLC PrintedActivity 02/07/2015 14:47:51.051 Summary on Board EQTY Road Transportation Totals SERVICES Transport-Related Services Support and Logistics AIRLINE SERVICES AND LOGISTICS PLC Support and Logistics Totals NIGERIAN AVIATION HANDLING COMPANY PLC Transport-Related Services Totals SERVICES Totals

Daily Summary (Equities)

AIRSERVICE Daily Summary (Equities) NAHCO

Activity Summary on Board EQTY Support and Logistics

SERVICES EQTY Board Totals CAVERTON OFFSHORE SUPPORT GRP PLC

Support and Logistics Support and Logistics Totals Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange © SERVICES Totals on Board ASeM Activity Summary CONSUMER GOODS EQTY Board Totals Food Products MCNICHOLS PLC Daily Summary as of 02/07/2015 Food Products Totals Printed 02/07/2015 14:47:51.051

Symbol CAVERTON Symbol

Daily Summary

114

Symbol

3,256

No. of Deals 1 1

Daily Summary (Equities) MCNICHOLS

Activity Summary on Board ASeM CONSUMER GOODS Totals

1

Value Traded 12 of 15 380.00 609,335.72 609,715.72

186,734,200

1,767,704,025.37

100

155.00

Value Traded 155.00 155.00

CONSUMER GOODS Food Products ASeM Board Totals

MCNICHOLS PLC

Exchange Traded Fund Food Products Totals Equity Activity Totals

Name CONSUMER GOODS TotalsETF LOTUS HALAL EQUITY NEWGOLD EXCHANGE TRADED FUND (ETF) VETIVA GRIFFIN ASeM Board Totals 30 ETF Exchange Traded Fund Totals

Equity Activity Totals

ETF TotalsStock Exchange © Published byBoard The Nigerian ETP Activity Totals

Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange © Symbol COURTVILLE

No Of Deals Symbol MAYBAKER NEIMETH

Symbol No. of Deals Current Price 1 Daily Summary (ETP) MCNICHOLS

Symbol LOTUSHAL15 NEWGOLD VETGRIF30

1 3,2571 No. of Deals 1 2 1 1 1 4

3,257

4 4

Quantity Traded Value Traded 100 155.00 1.50 100 155.00 100 155.00 186,734,300 1,767,704,180.37 Current Price Quantity Traded Value Traded 100 11 155.00 10.73 117.23 2,230.00 50 111,500.00 14.98 149.80 100 10 155.00 71 111,767.03

186,734,300

Page 71

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71

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Friday, July 3, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

47

Community Mirror With all due respect to the former Minister Okonjo-Iweala, she knows how to play around with statistics. I have made the point, she keep opening part of the pages and not the entire book.

Governor of Edo State â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Adams Oshiomole

Court adjourns suit challenging Ojora title Olanrewaju OlatunbOsun

A

Lagos High Court judge, Justice Abdulfattah Lawal yesterday adjourned a suit seeking to restrain Oba Fatai Aremu Aromire Ojora as the Ojora of Lagos till October 23, 2015.

The family of Adeshiba

Ayeloja royal family had in their statement of claim urged the Court to order the Lagos State government to confirm the nomination and appointment of one Shehu Shekoni Adedewe as the Oba elect of Iganmu land.

Other defendants in the suit are; Chief Fatai Abiodun Olumegbon, the Governor of Lagos State, the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Lagos State, The Commis-

Business women sues Lagos AG, 2 others for trespass wale IgbIntade

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business woman, Princess Josephine Momoh has asked an Ikeja High Court to restrain, the Commissioner for Lands, Lagos state and the state Attorney-General from trespassing on a parcel of land lying along Isheri/Olowora in Kosofe Local government area of Lagos State.

The claimant in Suit Number ID/258/09 filed by her lawyer, Ola Sobowale also joined as defendant, the Ikeja Saddle Club.

The claimant in her statement of claim is seeking for court declaration that she is entitled to the statutory Right of occupancy over the disputed land delineated on Survey Plan No. TJ/LA/47/77 dated 12th July 1977.

The claimant is also demanding for N2 million as damages suffered as a result of the continued trespass of the defendant on the land in the dispute.

According to the claimant, the land in dispute is a portion of a larger piece of land originally settled upon by Ikumoworo, who was the first Onikoro of Oruba Agboyi and also of Isheri several years ago in accordance with Yoruba Native Law and Custom.

The claimant in her statement of claim averred that the said Ikumoworo was survived by three children namely Adekana, Oniseta and Ajayi Okee respectively adding that the three children took joint physical possession of the land and were exercising various joint acts ownership over the same without let or hindrance from any quarter until their deaths several years ago.

The claimant averred that the said Ikumoworo family as representation by the Onikoro, the Osho-

run and the Onikosi took physical possession of the land before the land was purportedly compulsorily acquired by the Lagos State Government.

The claimant averred that Lagos State Government did not pay any compensation to the Ikumoworo family but were merely using various portion of the land under the guise that there have been acquisition Notices which had been gazetted but which Notice were never served on the claimantâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s predecessors-in-title required by Law. The claimant posited that sometimes in 1977, she approached the accredited representative of the Ikumoworo family as their attorney in respect of the Ikumoworo family, for the sale of the land in dispute to her.

The Ikumoworo family decided to sell the land to the claimant due to the cordial relationship that had existed between them.

The claimant added that after the land was sold, she (claimant) was put in physical possession by the accredited representatives of the family who prayed for her peaceful and quiet enjoyment of the land she purchased for them.

The claimant added that she identified the area of her personal land purchased from the Ikumoworo family and fenced the same with barbed wire.

But, in their statement of defence the defendants in their statement of defence said the land in dispute falls within large expanse of land acquired by Lagos state government in 1969 for public purpose.

Describing the suit as frivolous and misconceived, abuse of court process, they urged the court to dismiss the suit with substantial cost.

sioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Lagos State and the Oba of Lagos , Oba Rilwan Akiolu respectively.

At the resumed hearing of the suit, Justice Lawal invited counsel to the claimant, Chief Segun Raji and that of the first defendant (Ojora), Chief Bolaji Ayorinde (SAN) into the chambers for discussion.

The Judge after about 45-minute discussion with the lawyers, resumed sitting and announced that the suit would be adjourned following a letter he received from the Chief Judge, Justice Funmilayo Atilade.

However, Justice Lawal did not divulge the contents of the said letter but simply adjourned the suit till October, 23.

The claimant had in their statement of claim stated that by virtue of the supplement to the Western Regional gazette No 5 volume 8 dated January 22, 1959 together with the recorgnised chieftaincies order of 1958, the defendants are not entitled to impose a king on the community.

Consequently, the claimant wants the court to declare the nomination, appointment and installation of the first defen-

dant as unconstitutional and of no effect.

There had been conflict between the Adeshiba Ayeloja Adedewe family and that of Ojora chieftaincy family over alleged demolition of houses on a vast area of land measuring approximately 1, 324 hectres situated in Awori, in Badagry area of Lagos State.

The Adedewe family had claimed that Ojora family is not entitled to the land in dispute hence all the transaction and dealings of the defendants on the disputed land are unconstitutional, null and void.

L-R: Guest Speakers, Prophetess Toyin Bakare; Founder Shadaiville Ministries, Dr. Kunle Hamilton and Founder Ekunola Davies Ministry International, Evangelist Ekunola Davies, during C CC Alfa-Nda Parish Royal Youth Conference tagged, The Transformers, in Lagos, recently. Photo: Samuel Adetimehin

Monarch tasks govt and traditional rulers on public trust

T

raditional rulers and the citizens alike have been challenged to adopt a political culture of public trust as the biggest problem in governance.

The Baale of Alimosho land, in Alimosho Local Government of Lagos Chief Joseph Afuwape made this statement in his palace during the week when he was appealing to the youth in Alimosho to always be good ambassador anywhere they are.

The monarch said traditional rulers in Lagos and in Nigeria as a whole should not think the position is an opportunity for them to be mismanaged but to maintain their dignity as traditional rulers to meet up with the status of

royal fathers and also to meet up with the challenges in their various communities and locality.

Chief Afuwape also identified factors for credible leadership in our society, to include readiness to establish and operation of transparency and open door polity.

He noted the saga displayed in the National Assembly by our politicians as unfortunate and nothing to write home about.

He then advise our political leaders to always put to scrutiny any candidates that will be representing each locality very well and not those that will scuttle the current democracy. He frowned at owing of salaries of workers in some states of the Federation and

appeal for immediate payment.

Chief Joseph Afuwape enjoined the people of Lagos State to co-operate with Governor Akinwunmi Ambode for a successful tenure and be productive, hardworking, honest and efficient in their day to day activities.

The Monarch also urged the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian (SSANU) and other nonteaching staff in the university not to embark on the intending strike or mobilize its members from the state to federal level to prepare for a long strike, because 2000 teachers may lose their jobs if the Federal Government Scrap the Staff School Across the country.

48

Transition

Friday, July 3, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Omoniyi Dada-Adu he death has been announced of a community leader and successful businessman, Pa Samuel Omoniyi Dada Adu, who slept in the Lord on Sunday January 25, 2015 at the ripe age of 94 years after a brief illness.

His remains will be committed to mother earth tomorrow at his residence, No 98, Oke Aro Street, Akure, Ondo State.

Body leaves Specialist Hospital, Akure for his residence at No 98, Oke Aro Street, Akure at 9.00am today Friday, July 3 2015 to be followed by Lying-in-state at the

same venue at 12.00pm Christian Wake Keep will starts from 4p.m at his residence, No. 98 Oke Aro Street, Akure.

Saturday July 4 2015, interment will take place at his residence, No 98, Oke Aro Street Akure at 8.00 am followed by burial service at Christ.Apostolic.Church, Oke Isegun Headquarter, Irowo Street, Akure.

Reception follows immediately at Omoluorogbo Grammar School Akure, Ondo State.

Pa Dada Adu, a devoted Christian and successful businessman in his life time, was born on Jan-

uary 20, 1921.

He was the pioneering President of Egbe Omo Akure in Idanre and the Life Patron of Egbe Iteriba Foko Idanre.

Until his death, Pa Dada Adu remained a strong pillar of St James C.A.C Oke Isegun Akure He would be fondly remembered for his ability to read and write proficiently, despite his inability to obtain a formal education.

The Late Pa Adu was survived by his aged wife, children, grand children and great grandchildren among whom is Gbenga Adu Omoniyi, a Chief Engineer with the Nigerian Television Authority NTA, Ado-Ekiti

our the late doyen with a Night of Songs and Tributes, while, a Christian wake keepings service was held on Thursday, July 2nd at the Cathedral Church of Christ, Marina.

Her remains will be interned today, Friday, July 3, 2015 at the Ikoyi Cemetery after a service at 11am at the Cathedral

Church of Christ, Marina, Lagos.

Born on September 26, 1936, Mrs. Abisigun-Alo was a consummate teacher, distinguished administrator, and loving wife, mother and grandmother. She was an alumnus of the Cambridge University and University of Lagos, where she

obtained a BA and MA, and PGDE, respectively.

A sister-in-law of the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, University of Lagos, Akoka, Prof. Babajide Alo, Mrs. Olugbolan Modupeolu Abisigun-Alo was the Foundation Principal of two Federal secondary schools at Abuja and Ijanikin, Lagos State.

T

Modupeola Abisigun-Alo

T

he death has been announced of Mrs. Olugbolan Modupeolu Abisigun-Alo, former ProChancellor and Chairman of Council of Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University (1993 -1997)

and University of Abuja (2000 – 2004). She died on Saturday June 13, 2015.

Schools, professional bodies and colleagues gathered at Kings College, Lagos, on Wednesday, July 1, 2015, to hon-

News

Lawyers ask EFCC, SFU to investigate DPR directors Matthew IrInoye

A

group of lawyers under the umbrella of Lawyers Unite Against Corruption, LUC, have asked the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, and the Special Fraud Unit, SFU, of the Nigerian Police to investigate some former Directors of the Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR), George Osahon, Tony Chukwueke for alleged fraudulent activities.

The group also want the agencies to investigate the legitimacy of a private company, Kendal Nigeria Limited which they alleged that the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) confirmed was not in its record.

The group led by its lead advocate, Ikechukwu Ikeji, while addressing a press conference in Lagos, alleged that the DPR flouted an order of Justice Okon Abang of a Federal High Court, Lagos which on June 1, 2015 ordered parties in a suit between Casimir Akagbosu and Heritage Oil and Gas Company Nigeria Limited, DPR and others in suit number FHC/ CS/L/778/2015 to maintain status quo ante bellum.

The court had granted the plaintiff ’s request for an interlocutory injunction against the defendants pending the hearing and determination of an appli-

cation on a motion on notice dated May 26, 2015.

Akagbosu had sued Prof.

Uche Uko Uche, a co-director of Heritage Oil and Gas of alleged attempt to divest him of his shareholding in the company.

The defendants in the suit are Heritage Oil and Gas Company(Nigeria) Limited, Prof. Uche Uko Uche, Esso Exploration and Production Nigeria Limited, the Federal Ministry of Petroleum Resources and DPR. The court order notwithstanding, Ikeji alleged that DPR under the leadership of Osahon has asked for and received undertaking from Prof. Uche to honour the outcome of the on-going litigation as a condition for conveying approval of the Minister for Petroleum Resources for extension of the exploration period and consent to the assignment of three per cent and 40 per cent participating interest in OPL 247 to Kendal Nigeria Limited.

The group alleged plans by the directors of DPR and Prof.

Uche to divest Akagbosu of his share holding in Heritage Oil, owners of Oil Prospecting License, OPL 247, to the tune of 50 per cent via a share purchase agreement adding that their intention is to obtain $20 million payment as signature bonus and farm-in-fees on behalf of the oil company and Esso Exploration and Production Nigeria (Deep-

Water Ventures) Limited.

Ikeji alleged that Osahan and Chukwueke alongside Prof.

Uche, are using a fake company, Kendal Nigeria Limited fraudulently and in breach of the court order to perpetrate fraudulent act and thereby setting aside the order with the undertaking given by Heritage Oil Company.

Ikeji alleged that Prof. Uche, without the approval of other directors purportedly allocated three per cent shares of the company to Kendal Nigeria Limited reportedly said to be a fake company not registered by the CAC, claiming that there was an attempt to take complete control of OPL 247 and its attendant benefits to the exclusion of Casimir, a founding shareholder with 50 per cent shareholding in Heritage Oil company.

The group claimed that Chukwueke and a former special assistant to Edmund Dakoru, allegedly brought in Chikwe Edoziem and Charles Ndiomu, both of Esso Exploration to sign an agreement in March 2014 with Prof. Uche who was purported to have been acting on behalf of Heritage Oil Company without the authority of the other shareholder, Akagbosu.

But the group alleged that Osahon, before his tenure in DPR lapsed Friday June 19, 2015, under pressure allegedly from Chukwueke and Directors of Esso Exploration, Chikwe Edozien and Charles Ndiomu to issue a ministerial consent before he vacated office in breach and in defiance of the court order. “with the assistant of Osahon, who as Director of DPR,

single handedly and without due diligence or due process sought Ministerial approval in April 2015 for Prof. Uche’s alleged request to assign 40 per cent of OPL 247 to Esso and a further three per cent to Kendal Nigeria Limited. The Ministerial approval was obtained within four days of Osahon’s memo to the minister. He was however unable to communicate the ministerial approval to Heritage Oil company due to court case filed by half owner of Heritage, Casimir Akagbosu on May 26, 2015 and a warning letter from lawyers to Akagbosu dated June 1, 2015. The letter warned Osahon that issuing a letter to Prof. Uche/ Heritage/Esso upon their design during the pendency of the suit was impugning on the integrity of the court”, they added.

Social club inducts new members

G

lamour women social club of Nigeria, an organisation that has bias for dedicating its services for the less privileged in the society will induct its new members this weekend.

This much was revealed by the Provost of the association Mrs. Beatrice Agbator an assistant superin-

tendent of Police attached to Area A Police Command Lion building in Lagos when she spoke with our correspondent on the phone The President of the social club Mrs. Ozor Shielu aka mama kingsley hinted that the club which was formed almost two years ago has about 50 women who are loyal members and

because of the clubs principle of taking into its fold credible persons, no less than ten new members will be inducted at an event slated for 4th of July 2015 in line with the ideals of the club in rendering financial and moral assistance to the less privileged in the that includes widows, and homeless in the society

Friday, July 3, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

49

World News

The latest attacks will not alter the determination of the United Nations to support the Malian people and the peace process.

–UN Secretary General, Ban Ki-Moon

Africa Tour: Mugabe faces Obama shut out

WORLD BULLETIN

Peace keepers killed in Mali Six U.N. peacekeepers were killed and five others were injured yesterday in an attack on their convoy in the West African nation of Mali, the United Nations said.

All 11 peacekeepers were from neighboring Burkina Faso. Details about the attack, which happened in central Mali’s Timbuktu region, were not immediately available,

AfolAbi GAmbAri, WITH AGENCY REPORT

U

S President Barack Obama will be touring the African Union (AU) Headquarters in Ethiopia during his visit to Africa but will likely not meet the AU Chairman, President Robert Mugabe, a report said yesterday.

Mugabe is also the current Chairman of the Southern African Development Community (SADC).

Obama, who is set to visit Kenya and Ethiopia later this month, is scheduled to tour the AU headquarters and meet the bloc’s secretariat.

Zimbabwe’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Joey Bimha, confirmed that the government had not received any indication from Obama of a meeting with Mugabe during his visit.

US Congressman Gregory Simpkins, who is currently in Harare, was reportedly not

‘Plane propeller malfunctioned’ Authorities said yesterday that the propeller wasn’t working on one of the engines of the Indonesian military transport plane that crashed this week, killing at least 135 people.

The initial finding suggests the crash may have been caused by problems in the engine, according

Mugabe

clear on the issue and only said he did not think Obama would avoid the 91-year-old leader.

The US Embassy in Harare also said it was not aware of any planned meeting between both leaders.

Relations between the US and Zimbabwe have remained frosty for years over allegations

The general public is hereby notified that the above named Organization has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under part ‘’C’’ of the Companies and Allied Matters Act, 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Emmanuel John Azi (Mr) 2. Christopher C. Pam (Mr) 3. Joseph Arin Izang (Mr) 4. Veronica Anthony Izang (Mrs.) 5. Mr. Luka Choji AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE: 1. To bring about community development which lies on social amenities, empowerment and peace building Programmes.

Any objection to the registration should be forwarded to the Registrar-General Corporate Affairs Commission, plot 420 Tigris Crescent off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Abuja within 28 days of this publication

SIGNED: SECRETARY

PUBLIC NOTICE COMPASSIONATE GOD REVIVAL ASSEMBLY The general public is hereby informed that the above named body has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under Part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matters Act of 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: Pastor Melody Eseosa Omorodion Pastor (Mrs.) Caroline Efe Omorodion Miss Blessing Ivie Omoruyi Mr. Kelvin Oshoagiemhe Ojior

to the chief of the Indonesian air force, Air Marshal Agus Supriatna.

The C-130 Hercules smashed into the city of Medan, on the Indonesian island of Sumatra, minutes after taking off Tuesday. Authorities said it was carrying 122 people, including military personnel and their family members.

Tunisia attack: 30 victims British –Officials

PUBLIC NOTICE TRANSFORMATION INITIATIVE FOR YOUTH PROGRESS

1.

2.

3.

4.

and the United Nations did not say who was behind the assault.

The attack brings to 42 the number of peacekeepers killed in Mali since their mission began in 2013.

The United Nations sent peacekeepers to Mali in April 2013 to guard against militant Islamists who threatened to move on the West African nation’s capital, Bamako.

President Vice President Secretary Member

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE: 1. To preach the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ, 2. To preach God’s love and peaceful co-existence among members, 3. To organize seminar, conference and workshop for enhancing the spiritual growth of God’s people, 4. To promote youth skill empowerment, 5. To engage in charitable and evangelistic works locally and internationally.

Any objection thereto should be forwarded to the Registrar-General, Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 555, Ndola Square, Wuse Zone 5, Abuja, Nigeria, within 28 days of this publication.

SIGNED: ID. OMORODION ESQ BARRISTER & SOLICITOR OF THE SUPREME COURT OF NIGERIA 08038827841

of human rights abuses levelled against Mugabe and his ruling Zanu-PF party.

Obama’s visit to Kenya would be his first as president after he was heavily criticised for failing to visit the land of his father’s birth during his first term as president.

CHANGE OF NAME

Thirty of the people killed in the Tunisia beach massacre last week are UK citizens, authorities said yesterday.

A gunman raided a beach hotel in Sousse on Friday, killing 38 people.

“All 30 British victims have been positively identified. We can say with a high degree of confidence that that is now the final death toll of British nationals killed in this incident,” UK Foreign Secretary, Philip Hammond, said.

CHANGE OF NAME

OLOYE: Formerly known and addressed as Miss Victoria Ebikeniye Oloye, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Victoria Ebikeniye Ogula. All former documents remain valid. Yaba Tech and General public should please take note.

Formerly known and addressed as Miss. Olatunbosun Tope Elijah, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Abodunrin Tope Elijah. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CONFIRMATION OF NAME This is to confirm that Braiman Abdulai is the same person as Aliu Abdulai, henceforth wish to be addressed as Aliu Abdulai. All former documents remain valid.

Zenith Bank and general public should please note.

UGWU: I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Ugwu Ujunwa .L. now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Onah Ujunwa .L. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

UDOH: I, formerly known and addressed as Udoh Grace Friday, now wish to be known, called and addressed as Udo Grace Friday.

All former documents remain valid.

General public and Authorities Concerned should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

MBEE: I, formerly known and addressed as MBEE OLEMAKPADU NELSON, now wish to be known, called and addressed as WILLIAMS OLEMAKPADU NELSON. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

OGBEBOR: I, formerly known and addressed as Ogbebor Stella Ewere, now wish to be known, called and addressed as Mokwenye Ewere Stella. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

UBUAI : Formerly known as Ubuai Ogaga Franklin, now wish to be known and address as Ovueferie Ogaga Franklin.

All former documents remains valid. Public note.

CHANGE OF NAME

CHANGE OF NAME

EGBO: I, formerly known and addressed as Binta Egbo, now wish to be known, called and addressed as Binta Aliyu. All former documents remain valid.

General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

IZUGBOKWE: I, formerly known and addressed as Izugbokwe Annastecia Chinwe, now wish to be known, called and addressed as Mrs. JohnwiseDuru Annastecia Chinwe. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

ALOBO: I, formerly known and addressed as Rhoda Ogbene Alobo, now wish to be known, called and addressed as Mrs. Rhoda Ogbene Ori. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

EZEABASILI : Formerly Known as Miss Jane Amaka Ezeabasili, now wish to be known and address as Mrs Jane Amaka Okanumee. All former documents remains valid. Uni-Zik Awka and public note.

“We’re repatriating the bodies of another nine who will return to the UK today. There will be two further repatriation flights tomorrow and Saturday,” Hammond said.

Tunisia beefed up security amid investigations on whether the suspected gunman, Saif Al-Deen Al Rezgui, had accomplices in Friday’s deadly shooting.

Seven Tunisians have been arrested, court spokesman Sofiene Selliti said.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Miss Olutola Florence Titilayo, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Asiwaju -Asegun Favour Titilayo. All former documents remain valid.

General public please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Miss.

Oladejo Olanike Christiana, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Oguntuase Olanike Christiana. All former documents remain valid. NIPOST and general public please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

THOMPSON: I, formerly known and addressed as Thompson Juliet, now wish to be known, called and addressed as Juliet Omusun. All former documents remain valid.

General public and Authorities Concerned should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Hassana Musa, now wish to be known and addressed as Hassana Abubakar. All former documents remain valid.

General public should please take note

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Fatolu Arnold Abdulkabir, now wish to be known and addressed as Sulaiman Arnold Abdulkabir. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

THOMPSON: I, formerly known and addressed as Ambrose Thompson, now wish to be known, called and addressed as Ambrose Omusun.

All former documents remain valid.

General public and Authorities Concerned should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

I, Olubunmi Abiola Adewusi, hereby state that I am the biological mother of Oluwateniola Jesuseitan Adewusi, Ebunoluwa Jesugbotemi Adewusi and Fiyinfoluwa Tijesunimi Adewusi, being the names they are formerly known and addressed with, but they now wish to be known, called and addressed as Oluwateniola Jesuseitan Aje-Adewusi, Ebunoluwa Jesugbotemi Aje-Adewusi and Fiyinfoluwa Tijesunimi Aje-Adewusi. All documents bearing their former names remain valid. Authorities Concerned and the general public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

NZEANWA: I, formerly known and addressed as Nzeanwa Joseph, now wish to be known, called and addressed as Ihejirika Chukwuemeka Joseph. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known as Miss Akinmusire Bukola Christiana, now wish to known and addressed as Mrs. Ashogbon Bukola Christiana. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

I formerly known as Miss Odukoya Olajumoke Yewande now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Oyesanya Olajumoke Yewande.

All former documents remain valid.

The general public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known as Miss Odoginyon Abimbola Ruth, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Ojo-Kolawole Abimbola Ruth. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

50

North

Friday, July 3, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Cholera kills 11 in Plateau, 48 hospitalised JAMES A BRAHAM JOS.

F

resh cholera outbreak in Langtang North Local Government Area of

Plateau State has left at least 10 persons dead while 48 others are receiving treatment in some hospitals.

Chairman of the local government, Dan

Dul, who confirmed the development to journalists in Jos yesterday confirmed that the death toll in the locality was recorded in the past one week.

He however said that out of the 48 persons hospitalised, some have been treated and discharged.

He disclosed that the Plateau State House of Assembly’s committee on

health and the state’s epidemiologist have visited the council with a view to assessing the situation.

Dul added that the council has equipped all the primary health care center, PHC, in the area to effectively tackled the problem, while appealing to the people to always wash their fruits before eating and their hands

after using the toilet.

Also in Jos, a staff of Nigeria Prison Service (name withheld) has died following constant vomiting and stooling. Before he could be rushed to a hospital, he passed away.

Passersby who witnessed the death of the prison official said they he might have died of cholera

Dwindling economy: Nasarawa imposes development levy on civil servants …saves auto-crash accident victims I GBAWASE U KUMBA LAFIA

L-R: District Head Of Gwoza, Buba Musa-Shehu; wife of Bauchi State Governor, Hajia Hadizah Mohammed and wife of Deputy Governor, Fatimah Nuhu Gidado, presenting relief materials to one of the internally displaced persons, Hajia Fadimatu Mohammed at their camp in Bauchi, yesterday.

PHOTO: NAN

Agwai, others deny establishing Christian radio station AZA MSUE KADUNA

F

ormer Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Luther Martins Agwai (rtd) and the general overseer of Throne Ministry, Pastor Emmanuel Nuhu Kure, yesterday denied establishing a Christian radio station in Kafanchan, Southern Kaduna.

In a statement signed by Pastor Nuhu on behalf directors and owners of new-

ly licensed Salama Radio based in Kafanchan, the duo described as “untrue” and “curious” the labeling of the yet to kick-off station as a “Christian Radio Station.”

It would be recalled that a North-based newspaper recently alleged that former President Goodluck Jonathan had in his “last minutes” in office, issued 72 radio licenses to his friends and cronies, saying Salama Radio and Me-

dia Limited were owned by some Christian clerics.

The statement said: “We are a registered limited liability company and the idea of setting up Salama Radio and Media Limited was conceived in 2008 while the late President UmaruYar’Adua was in office; and after going through the registration process it was incorporated in 28th July, 2010, with the Corporate Affairs Commission, CAC.

The fact that we have an ordained clergy among us doesn’t mutate it into a religious station.

“Nonetheless, there is no law preventing a religious leader from associating with others in any legitimate business in Nigeria.

“Are they trying to provoke a debate to the effect that the approval given by a President who was a Christian should be withdrawn by a Muslim President?

Court stops EFCC from arresting Kwankwaso ABDULGAFAR OLADIMEJI KANO

A

Kano High Court sitting in Gezewa District, has ordered the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, not to proceed to effect the arrest of former governor of Kano State, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, over alleged misappropriation of N10 billion pension fund being investigated by the commission.

Kwankwaso last Wednesday approached the court, seeking its order to restrain the EFCC from apprehending him. He prayed the court to instruct the antigraft agency to maintain the status quo.

The immediate past gov-

ernor of the state who filed a motion exparte before the court, seeking an injunction that would bar the antigraft agency, its agents and use of other forms of proxy from quizzing him over the allegation, prayed for relief to serve a hearing notice on the EFCC to respond on June 15.

Kwankwaso had imposed a self house arrest on himself to evade arrest by agents of the agency following a petition, which emanated from Concerned Kano State Workers and Pensioners, urging EFCC to investigate and prosecute the former governor for sharp practices in connection with the pension fund.

Delivering his ruling, yesterday, justice Moham-

med Yahaya said the allegation that the EFCC was planning to arrest Kwankwaso was baseless and a mere speculation.

He therefore declined to grant the request for an order of the court restraining EFCC from arresting the former governor.

On the prayer urging the court to order maintenance of the status quo to

by EFCC and its personnel pending the determination of the substantive matter, Justice Yahaya granted this request.

The court further ordered for a hearing notice to be served on the EFCC through courier service.

Kwankwaso last Wednesday, through his lawyer, had told the Kano

High Court that the EFCC’s threat to arrest him has restricted him to his residence in Abuja.

Counsel to Kwankwaso, Barrister Okechukwu Eze, had told the court: “My client has been in his house over the threat of arrest by the EFCC and has been denied the liberty of performing his legislative duties as mandated by voters of Kano Central District.

“We express fear that Kwankwaso’s right to liberty and freedom of movement as guaranteed under the Constitution is likely to be violated by the EFCC.” He argued that Kwankwaso has not infringed on the pension laws to warrant plans by the anti-corruption agency to effect his arrest.

N

asarawa State government yesterday said it has introduced development levy to be paid by all categories of civil servants in the state in order to improve its internallygenerated revenue, IGR. The state governor, Umaru Tanko Al-Makura, disclosed this at the Government House, Lafia while receiving the report of the Transition Appraisal Committee earlier inaugurated to appraise the performance of the All Progressives Congress, APC, administration in the state in the past four years.

He said the current situation where about 90 per cent of the state’s resources is spent on the payment of workers’ salaries to the detriment of the masses who constitute a greater percentage of the population is no longer acceptable to the government.

The governor revealed that apart from the development levy, the state government would put other measures in place to ensure aggressive IGR generation to save the economic crisis bedeviling the state and the country.

He regretted that the local government councils in the state are currently facing the challenge of paying their workers’ salaries, attributing the development to over-staffing.

Al-Makura therefore challenged salary earners in the state to see the new policy as a way of sacrificing for the sake of developing the state, even as he stated that he, his deputy and other government appointees are not exempted from the development levy which he said would be deducted at source on monthly basis.

The governor commended the Transition Appraisal Committee for accepting the responsibility to serve the state in the challenging task and promised to study the report with a view to implementing its recommendations.

Meanwhile, the governor yesterday saved four auto-crash accident victims along Akwanga - Lafia road.

The accident had involved a three-year-old girl, her mother and two other occupants of the vehicle, although no death casualty was recorded as at the time of filing this report.

Al-Makura however directed that the victims be rushed to the hospital in his car even as he took their belongings to the police station.

The governor who was on his way back from Abuja stopped at the scene of the accident which happened at about 6:00pm, involving a Nyanya transport bus with registration number GL 333 SM which somersaulted into the bush.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

North

Friday, July 3, 2015

51

El-Rufai to sue Union newspapers over N90bn asset story

G

L-R: Acting Director General, National Office for Technology Acquisition and Promotion (NOTAP), Dr. Dan’azumi Ibrahim; Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Science and Technology, Mrs. Winifred Oyo-Ita and outgoing Director-General, Mr. Umar Bindir, during the inauguration of NOTAP office in Abuja.

Masari directs officials to enroll children in public schools JAMES DANJUMA KATSINA

P

olitical office holders and other government officials in Katsina State have been asked to commence the enrolling their children into public schools from

September this year.

Governor Aminu Bello Masari gave the directive yesterday, during a oneday workshop for Islamic leaders.

Masari said the measure was part of government’s effort to ensure qualitative education in

the state.

Represented by the state chairman of the All progressives Congress, APC, Dr. Mustapha Inuwa; the governor reiterated that education was top priority for his administration.

He also assured of

his administration’s readiness to promote unity among Islamic leaders and citizens in the state.

The event had two Islamic clerics drawn from the Izala and Darika sects, from each of the 34 council areas of the state.

NEMA unites 5,000 families in Adamawa, Borno

N

ational Emergency Management Agency, NEMA, on Thursday said it had united 5,000 families in Adamawa and Borno states following the liberation of some communities from Boko Haram insurgents in the North East.

Alhaji Sani Sidi, the Director-General, NEMA, disclosed this while presenting relief materials to Internally Displaced Persons, IDPs, returnees in

Uba, Adamawa State.

Sidi said the integration programme was initiated by the agency to support displaced persons, who returned to their various villages.

Represented by Alhaji Sa’ad Bello, NEMA camp coordinator in Adamawa, Sidi said the agency would provide necessary assistance to the returnees in the affected states.

He said some of the displaced persons who

fled their villages in Mubi north, Mubi south and Maiha Local Government Areas of Adamawa State have returned to their respective villages.

Others who returned according to him, are from Lassa, Mussa, Dille, Uba,Muthavu and Husare Tampul villages in AskiraUba Local Government Area of Borno State.

The Director-General said the agency would continue to render assistance

to the returnees by providing building materials and other facilities to enable then settle down.

The Secretary, AskiraUba Local Government Area, Alhaji Sanusi Bello, thanked the Federal Government for the gesture and assured that the materials would reach the affected returnees.

He called on philanthropists and non-governmental organisations to emulate NEMA.

overnor Nasiru elRufai, yesterday, said he would institute legal action against The Union newspapers over a story in which it claimed the governor declared N90 billion as his asset.

A statement by the governor’s media aide, Mr Samuel Aruwan in Kaduna, described the report as the work of ‘’irresponsible hacks.’’

Malam Nasir el-Rufai is dismayed by the blatant falsehood being practiced as journalism by The Union newspapers.

“He has consequently directed his legal team to vigorously enforce his rights to protect his reputation from the vandalism of irresponsible hacks.

“The Union chose to write a spurious story alleging N90billion as his assets declaration without seeing the declaration made by Malam el- Rufai.’’

The statement said

Vitafoam donates to Boko Haram victims

A

s part of its Corporate Social Responsibilities, CSR, Vitafoam Nigeria Plc has brought succor to some victims of insurgents by donating 100 luxurious mattresses and 100 pillows to the Internally Displaced People, IDPs, in Borno State through a Non-Governmental Organisation, NGO, the Oasis Association.

Explaining the rationale behind the donation, Vitafoam’s Group Managing Director, Mr Taiwo Adeniyi, stated that the donation of mattresses and pillows will

CCB decries governors’ delay in declaring assets

C

ode of Conduct Bureau, CCB, on Thursday, expressed worry over the delay by some state governors to declare their assets, one month after assuming office.

Chairman of CCB, Mr Sam Saba, expressed the concern in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria, NAN, in Abuja.

He, however, said the bureau had no problem with members of the National Assembly over as-

sets declaration.

He added: ‘’Let me say that we really don’t have problem with members of the National Assembly as far as assets declaration is concerned. ‘’Also, the president and the vice-president declared their assets before they took oath of office in compliance with schedule seven of the constitution. ‘’The people we are having problem with now, are some governors, but I

cannot be categorical in terms of statistics except I confirm.’’

Saba said he had demanded to know the number of governors that had declared their assets from state directors of the bureau.

The CCB boss then blamed the delay by some governors to declare their assets to their failure to study the constitution.

He said: ‘’the governors are not even supposed to start work as po-

litical office holders until they declare their assets.

“It is provided in Section 185 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria as amended.

‘It reads that; a person elected to the office of a governor of a state shall not begin to perform the function of that office until he has declared his assets and liabilities.’’

Saba said that in spite of the fact that the section made assets declaration

the governor would not succumb to any form of blackmail and would pursue the matter in order to protect his integrity.

“Fair minded people who read the story will notice that it is not grounded in any evidence. It is just the animus of blackmailers who regard Malam Nasir el-Rufai as easy prey.

“But since his reputation is not based on purchased kudos, he cannot be compelled into accommodation with venal people masquerading as journalists.

“Malam Nasir el-Rufai is a privileged Nigerian.

He qualified as a chartered Quantity Surveyor early in life and became a dollar millionaire in his twenties.

“He is a respected leader in his professional field, but as successful as he has been in his career, he certainly has neither N90 billion nor 40 mansions.

prelude to taking oath of office, some governors took over office without declaring their assets because of ignorance.

“It is not that they are not willing to declare, but because of the erroneous impression that they have up to three months within which to declare their assets and liabilities.

“But the issue is that they are supposed to have declared before being sworn in as governors.”

in a way alleviate the sufferings of the people displaced by the insurgents.

According to him, the donation is Vitafoam’s way of giving back to the society.

“Oasis contacted us to partner with us by assisting in this regard. We believe that we are just contributing our part. We have been supporting victims of many disasters over the years and we have consistently spent millions of naira annually.

The significance of our donation of mattresses and pillows is better appreciated against the essence of comfortable sleep as a necessary condition for thinking better. ‘’As a good corporate citizen, we shall continue to support the needy”, he said.

Adeniyi noted that Vitafoam’s operations in the northern part of the country was affected by the activities of Boko Haram, thus leading to some loss of revenues.

He however, explained that government alone could not address the level of destruction caused by the insurgents; he therefore, called on other corporate bodies to assist the internally displaced peoples without further delay.

52

Friday, July 3, 2015

CHANGE OF NAME

I formerly known and addressed as Miss Eberechukwu Peace Ogboo, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Eberechukwu Peace Ezeudu. All former documents remain valid General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

I formerly known and addressed as Miss Arowolo Aderonke Patricia now wish to be know and addressed as Mrs Alao Aderonke Patricia.

All former documents remain valid Ekiti State Government and general public note.

CHANGE OF NAME

I formerly known and addressed as Miss Abubakar Idayat Apeke, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Olowoyo Idayat Apeke. All former document remain valid,Ekiti State Government and general public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

AKPA: I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Akpa Nkiruka Clara, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Okolie Nkiruka Clara. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Miss. Oreyomi Osarenren, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Edosomnan Osarenren. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Ojelabi Roseline Ayanbimpe, now wish to be known and addressed as Emmanuel Roseline Ayanbimpe.

All former documents remain valid.

General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

I formerly known and addressed as Miss Ogundare Fatimat Opeyemi, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Olofin Fatimat Opeyemi. All former document remain valid,Ekiti State Government and general public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

NNAJI: I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Nnaji Mary E. now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Mbah Mary E. All former documents remain valid.

General public should please take note.

PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN TO CREDITORS AND OTHER PERSONS HAVING CLAIMS AGAINST THE STATE OF DECEASED PERSON WHOSE NAMES AND ADDRESSED IS BELOW ARE REQUIRED TO SEND PARTICULARS IN WRITING OF THEIR CLAIMS TO THE TO THE UNDERSIGNED ON OR BEFORE 22ND JULY, 2015 AFTER WHICH DATE I SHALL PROCEED TO DISTRIBUTE THE ASSETS OF THE SAID DECEASED PERSON AMONG THE PARTIES ENTITLED THERETO, HAVING REGARD ONLY TO THE CLAIMS OF WHICH NOTICE SHALL THEN HAVE BEEN RECEIVED. ALL PERSONS INDEBTED TO THE SAID ESTATE ARE HEREBY REQUESTED TO MAKE PAYMENT FORT WITH TO THE ADMINISTRATOR- GENERAL AND PUBLIC TRUSTEES, EKITI STATE. Irewolede Ezekiel Adunbi. Late of No13 Moferere street ado Ekiti, who died on 10th October, 2014 at Ekiti state teaching Hospital Ado Ekiti.

Signed:

Ojo L. B. Administrator General And Public Trustee, Ministry of Justice, Ado Ekiti.

LOSS OF DOCUMENT

This is to inform the general public of the Loss of Original Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) No 200fw-14c25-5fbbr-14492-10 in respect of Plot No 1484, District Ao3 with file No BN 30539 situated at Block Sb4, Flat 14 Street, NNPC Quarters Garki Abuja bearing MBADZUAN ESTA AYEDE. All efforts to trace the said document proved abortive.

Members of the general public please note. If found, kindly return to the nearest police station.

SIGNED.

PUBLIC NOTICE

LAGOS FILM SOCIETY

The above-named Association has applied for registration with the Corporate Affairs Commission under Part ‘C’ of the Companies and Allied Matters Act, 2004.

THE TRUSTEES ARE:

A. B. C. D.

Didi Cheeka Anni - Chairman Oribhabor Aigbokhaevbolo - Secretary Marc-André Schmachtel Aderinsola Ajao

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE:

I. To create a platform for advancement of and support for art and independent cinema culture in Nigeria.

II. To create public awareness and promote international exchange for art and independent cinema culture in Nigeria.

III. To create a hub for training initiatives and film-related professionalization activities for disadvantaged youths IV. Any other objective(s) in furtherance of the aforementioned that the Trustees may deem fit from time to time and in accordance with the law.

Any objection to the registration should be forwarded to the Registrar – General, Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420 Tigris Crescent, Maitama, Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

SIGNED: ORIBHABOR AIGBOKHAEVBOLO, SECRETARY 4TH FLOOR, LAGOS CITY HALL, 30 CATHOLIC MISSION STREET, LAGOS.

PUBLIC NOTICE

IBAKA YOUTHS ASSOCIATION The general public is hereby notified that the above named organization has applied for registration under part ‘C’ of the companies and Allied Matters Act, 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Isemin, Uduak Effiong 2. Asuquo, Comfort Okon 3. Ating, Okon Asuquo 4. Usimka, Samuel Effiong 5. Ekpot, Okon Effiong 6. Ukap, Effiong Edet 7. Inwang, Etim Okon PRINCIPAL AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1. To forge unity, cooperation, understanding, peace and solidarity among the youths of Ibaka 2. To promote the goals and aspirations of Ibaka Youths and serve as the mouthpiece of the Ibaka youths both at home and abroad.

Any objection(s) to the registration of the above Ministry should be forwarded to the Registrar- General of the Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420 Tigris Crescent, off AguiyiIronsi Street, Maitama, Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

SIGNED: A.E.OKPA, ESQ

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Majolagbe Kehinde Olufunmilayo, now wish to be known and addressed as Alabi Kehinde Olufunmilayo.

All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Family of uche Festus Egbunonu. They includes; Chinyere Esther Egbunonu, Nmesoma Vitory Egbunonu, Chinecherem Miracle Egbunonu, now wish to change d sure name Egbunonu To Uche-Okafor. Note the father’s name will now reads Festus UcheOkafor.

CHANGE OF NAME

I formerly known and addressed as Miss Adejuyigbe Idowu Bukola, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Adekanmi Adebukola Idowu. All former document remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Muhammed Maryam Gaye, now wish to be known and addressed as Musa Maryam.

All former documents remain valid.General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

AKWOLU: I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Akwolu Mabel Chika, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Ngwu Mabel Chika. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

LOSS DOCUMENTS

This is to inform the general of loss of Deed of Lease dated 28th July 1978 registered as 18/18/1409 at the Lands Registry Enugu with survey plan no MG/AN/462/85 belonging to Hon. Ikechukwu Arum. If found contact the Ministry of Lands and urban Development Enugu.

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Adigun Aishat Adewumi, now wish to be known and addressed as Abiose Aishat Adewunmi. All former documents remain valid.

General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

NJOKU : Formerly known as Miss Njoku Chinasa, now wish to be known and address as Mrs Okereke Chinasa. All former documents remains valid. Public note.

CHANGE OF NAME

CHANGE OF NAME

CHANGE OF NAME

I formerly known and addressed Miss. Dada, Opeyemi Damilola, now to be known and addressed as Mrs. Dapo-Alade, Opeyemi Damilola. All former documents remain valid. General public should note.

I formerly known and addressed as Agah Gabriel, now wish to be known and addressed as Ogbeche Darry Edward. All former Documents remain valid. All general public should please take note.

I formerly known and addressed as Miss Faith Tokuvwe Ogheneovo now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Faith Agofure.

All former documents remain valid.

The general public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

COMFIRMATION OF NAME The name publish on C.A.C documents as Brother Arinayo Collins Joseph, was wrong Spelt and the correct name Should be Brother Ariwayo Collins Kehinde.

All former documents remain valid.

General public take note

Formerly known and addressed as Miss Sopein Anuoluwapo, now wish to be known and addressed as Miss Peters Mercy Dorcas Oluwakemi. All former documents remain valid. UNILAG and General Public take note

Formerly known and addressed as Mr Sonola Rotimi Israel now wish to be known and addressed as Mr Adebayo Rotimi Israel. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Aka Angela Chikodi. now wish to be known and addressed as Ezeji Angela Chikodi. All former document remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

I formerly known and called Joan Annabodi Kolo henceforth wish to be addressed as Joannah Kolo .All former documents remain valid.

Niger State Secondary Education Board Minna and the general public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

EJIOFOR: I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Ejiofor Amuche Mary Ann, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Anioke Amuche Maryann. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

ANIGBOGU: I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Anigbogu Oluoma Olive, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Nweke Oluoma Olive. All former documents remain valid.

Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria and general public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

AJIBOLA: Formerly known and addressed as Miss Olayemi Oluwaseun Ajibola, now wish to be known and address as Mrs Olayemi Oluwaseun Adesina. All former documents remains valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

ANIKWATA : Formerly known as Miss Anikwata Augustina Chisom, now wish to be known and address as Mrs Eke Augustina Chisom. All former documets remains valid. Public note.

PUBLIC NOTICE

THE NON GOVERMENTAL ORGANIZATION KID WITH A VISION FOUNDATION. The general public is hereby notified that the above named organization has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for registration Under the Companies and Allied Matter Act 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Grace Adams 2. Justice Yelum Bogor 3. Kefas Ali 4. Dr. Ezekiel Best 5. Dr. Aje Tokan

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE: Holistic child care to orphans/vulnerable children. Child mentoring and coaching community development. We run an orphanage home.

Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the registrar general,corporate affairs commission,plot 420 Tigris crescent,off Agunyi Ironsi street, Maitama, Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

SIGNED: TRUSTEES PUBLIC NOTICE

THE ARMOUR OF GOD MOUNTAIN PRAYING MINISTRY

The General Public is hereby notified that the above named Association has applied to the corporate Affairs Commission, Abuja for Registration under “C” of the Companies and Allied Matters Act 1990

THE TRUSTEES ARE:

1. Winsome EfojieAichie 2. Chibunna Anayochukwu Donatus 3. Joseph Olumuyiwa 4. Praise Ebubechi Winsome 5. Ozioma Anna Okosun

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE:

- General Overseer - Pastor - Youth Pastor - Youth Co-ordinator - General Women Leader

To preach salvation, sanctification and holiness messages locally and internationally To conduct deliverance locally and internationally To carry out evangelism and open-wide crusades locally and internationally To reach out to the needy such as widows, motherless babies’ homes, SOS, etc. and provide necessary humanitarian services To visit prisons, hospitals, refugee camps, etc. for necessary humanitarian services To provide Educational services such as Nursery, Primary, Secondary, and Bible training Schools.

To carry leadership training programmes, including seminars and workshops.

To plant churches locally and internationally.

Any objection to the registration should be forwarded to the Registrar- General, Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420, Tigris Crescent, Maitama, Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

SIGNED: OLUJOBI OLUSOLA JOSHUA FOR: OLUJOBI OLUSOLA & CO NO 3 ISHOLA STREET, MOKOLA BUS STOP, EGBEDA, LAGOS

CHANGE OF NAME

Formerly known and addressed as Miss Folasade Ibiyemi Omolara, now wish to known and addressed as Mrs Folasade Lasisi. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note

CHANGE OF NAME

CHANGE OF NAME

ABDULRASAQ: Formerly known and addressed as Miss Fatima Abdulrasaq Romoke now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Fatima Habib Romoke. All former document remains valid. All authorities concerned and General public should please take note.

LOSS OF DOCUMENT

This is to inform the general public that the original copy of the certificate of occupancy No. BNC7483 in the name of Ephram Ejiofor Ozoemena of No. 1 Otukpo Road Makurdi, Benue State. The property which was assigned to Ephram Ejiofor Ozoemena by Lands and Survey, Makurdi over plot No. BNC7483 situated at Makurdi Urban Area is missing. All effort to trace same proved abortive. The general public and authorities concern should take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

NRIJI: I, formerly known and addressed as Nriji Chinweuba Carminous Clintin, now wish to be known and addressed as Oju Chinweuba Carminous Clintin. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

OJEANI: I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Ojeani Florence Ifeoma, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Edeh Florence Ifeoma. All former documents remain valid. ESUT and general public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

I formerly known and addressed as Miss Halimat Oladoyin Salami, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Oladoyin Halimat Adeleye. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

DIGWE: I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Digwe Ogochukwu Mirable Esther, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Okwu Ogochukwu Mirable Esther. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

ODO: I, formerly known and addressed as Odo Callistus Iyoke, now wish to be known and addressed as Iyoke Callistus Iyoke. All former documents remain valid. Examination Development Centre (EDC) Enugu, Enugu State Local Service Commission, Igbo-Etiti Local Government Council and general public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

I formerly known and addressed as Miss Mokinenye Veronica Odiromiwe Unoma, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Babafemi Veronica Unoma Odiromiwe. All former documents remain valid. NYSC, Mountain of Fire and Miracle Ministry (MFM) and general public take note.

FAMILY CHANGE OF NAME. NWOKIKE : We formerly known as Mr Innocent Onyibor Nwokike, Christiana Chioma Nwokike, Vivian Amara Nwokike and Victor Mmaduabuchi Nwokike now wish to known and address as Mr Innocent Onyibor, Christiana Chioma Onyibor, Vivian Amara Onyibor and Victor Mmaduabuchi Onyibor. All former documents remains valid. Public note.

PUBLIC NOTICE MWAGHAVUL MUSLIM ASSOCIATION PLATEAU CHAPTER

The general public is hereby notified that the above named Association has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission, for registration under part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matters Act, of 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Pofi Isiaka Zakari - Chairman 2. Zakari Musa Daluhum 3. Ismail Mohammad Ismail 4. Gambo Haruna Mohammed 5. Dugwak Hamisu Ismaila 6. Abubakar Umar Ladan 7. Mohammad Isa 8. Zakari Yau Ibrahim 9. Yamset Musa Njineng 10.Gunakap Musa Wetka AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE:

1. To promote unity peace and progress among Muslim and non Muslim within the community on the Plateau Any objection to the registration should be forwarded to the RegistrarGeneral Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420, Tigris Crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Abuja within twenty-eight (28) days of this publication

SIGNED: CHAIRMAN LOSS OF DOCUMENTS This is to notify the general public that the original copy of certificate of Incorporation and constitution, belonging to EZIOYI NOBLE ASSOCIATION, ADO EKITI with Registration no CAC/IT/No41757 got lost. All efforts to locate the said documents proved abortive.

The association is on the verge of acquiring another certificate through Corporate Affairs Commission to replace the lost one. If the lost documents is found by anyone, please contact the nearest police station.

Signed:

EZIOYI NOBLE ASSOCIATION

Friday, July 3, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Boxing: Minimah tourney enters s/ finals

I feel refreshed now after the grueling season and I think I am moving towards a sharper new season

53

Sport

54

–Manchester United midfielder, Marouane Fellaini

Nigeria appoints foreign coach

siasia

…for basketball

Olympics qualifier: Ubah dangles N2m before U-23 team

T

he Managing Director/CEO of Capital Oil, Chief Ifeanyi Ubah, has charged the U-23 National Team, Dream Team, to beat their Congolese counterparts in the first leg of their African U-23 Championship qualifying fixture and get a N2million reward.

Addressing the players and their officials after a 3-2 victory over Amakson Academy in a friendly game in Abuja 3-2, the FC Ifeanyi Ubah Chairman said he is making the cash pledge as his little contribution in ensuring that the team is well motivated by Nigerians to make the nation proud come July 19 in

Port Harcourt.

“You guys should know that you carry the aspiration and dreams of over 170 million Nigerians and as such you must put it at the back of your mind to go all out against the Congolese so that the return leg will be a mere formality.

Nigerians will not take any excuse from you,” Ubah charged the team.

Assuring the team of more financial windfall if they scale the Congo hurdle, Chief Ubah, who watched the game, said the boys should realise that if they do well and qualify for the 2016 Olympic Games, their career will become brighter as they will not only get

good contracts overseas, they will also graduate to play for the Super Eagles.

Responding, team captain, Azubuike Okechukwu, while thanking Chief Ubah for taking time off his busy schedule to come and watch them play, assured him that they will go all out to do Nigerians proud just like they did in their pursuit of an All Africa Games ticket, adding that they are fully aware of Nigerians’ expectations from them.

Meanwhile, the Dream Team will on Saturday tackle 36 Lions F.C of Lagos in its last friendly game in Abuja before departing for Port Harcourt on Sunday.

Paul ErEwuba and JoEl aJayi

T

he Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) yesterday appointed former General Manager of Bakerfield Jam of the NBA Development League, Coach William Voigt, as the coach to lead Nigeria’s campaign at the 2015 Afrobasket Men’s tournament which dunks off in Tunisia on August 19 this year.

The NBBF, it was learnt, chose Voigt ahead of about 20 shortlisted coaches including Nigerians.

In a statement signed by the Head, NBBF Media, Patrick Omorodion, Voigt was offered a short term contract until September to win the Afrobasket and qualify Nigeria for the 2016 Rio Olympic Games. And if he succeeds, will be the coach to lead the team to the Olympics.

“He will be assisted by a team of Assistant Coaches and Video analyst. Coaches Ayinla Johnson and Abdulrahaman Mohammed as well as the team doctor and physiotherapist will keep their positions from the 2013 coaching staff.

“Voigt is not new to the national

team and Nigerian basketball environment, as he had previously coached two of the team’s standouts, Alade Aminu and Ike Diogu, in the NBA D-League and has also volunteered in Summer Basketball Camps organised by Masai Ujiri in Zaria and Lagos between 2004 and 2008,” Omorodion further explained.

The National team training camp, Omorodion said is expected to open in Abuja on 15th July with both home and foreign-based players.

Voigt

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Sports

Friday, July 3, 2015

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Match fixing:

NFF, LMC go tough on culprits Wimbledon Open 2015:

Murray too hot for

Joel aJayI ABUJA

N Murray

Haase B

ritish Andy Murray yesterday powered into the third round at Wimbledon with a ruthless straight sets win over Robin Haase.

The Wimbledon Open top seed took full advantage of an error-strewn display from his Dutch opponent as he completed a 6-1 6-1 6-4 win in just 88 minutes on Court One. After battling through against Mikhail Kukushkin

in his opening match of the tournament, Murray enjoyed a much more straightforward win against an out-of-sorts Haase.

The third seed dropped only one point on serve in the first set as he broke his 78thranked opponent three times to take it 6-1 in just 20 minutes.

Murray’s momentum continued at the start of the second set as he earned a fourth successive break to move 3-0

Haase threw caution to the wind at the start of the third set, unleashing a thundering forehand winner, which was greeted with raptures of encouragement from his box. He continued to blast away until the end.

Murray will next face Italian 25th seed Andreas Seppi or Croatia’s talented 18-yearold Borna Coric in round three.

ahead.

A slight lapse in concentration from the 2013 champion in the fourth game gave Haase his first break-point chance, but he was unable to take advantage as the Brit recovered to hold serve.

That would be the Dutchman’s only break point of the match and the second set soon slipped away from him as Murray broke again to take it 6-1.

Nigeria ready for ECOWAS tourney PrIscIlla dennIs MINNA

N

ational Executive Secretary of Federation of Youth Soccer Clubs of Nigeria, Hon. A.S. Luya, yesterday said the country will participate in the 2015 ECOWAS Invitational Soccer

Competition billed for next month in Lome, Togo.

The tournament scheduled for July 22 to 29 is open to teams from ECOWAS sub-region and defending champion Nigeria will face arch rival Ghana in the three-day event.

Luya said Kontagora Emirate Football team in Niger State has been selected to rep-

resent Nigeria at the competition.

The FEYSOC secretary explained the choice of the Emirate team was due to the immense support of Alhaji Usman Namaska to grassroots football in the state.

“The Nigeria Football Federation has always been behind our goals and aspiration

and this has further propelled FEYSOC to take grassroots football to the next level,” Luya further said, stressing, “We believe the team will not disappoint Nigeria.”

He, however, enjoined sponsors of the tournament to ensure smooth participation of Nigeria in the championship.

igeria Football Federation (NFF) has vowed to punish offenders in a recent alleged match-fixing involving a Week 9 game between FC Ifeanyi Ubah and Sharks in Kano.

President of Nigeria Referees Association (NRA), Mr. Tade Azeez, was among the persons involved in the alleged scandal.

NFF Secretary General, Mohammed Sanusi, who confirmed investigation into the matter, told National Mirror in Abuja yesterday that the culprits would not go scot-free.

“We shall make our findings public in due course,” Sanusi said.

On the protracted non-payment of players by most clubs in the league, Chairman of League Management Company, Shehu Dikko, said the LMC would meet with the Governors’ Forum to table the matter for discussion.

“We are trying our best but we can only act when the players write to us to complain,” Dikko said.

On sponsorship, Dikko also said: “We are trying to reform with the clubs, bringing private investors, including community ownership.

But these things cannot happen overnight, it has to be a gradual process.”

NFF Secretary, Sanusi

Boxing: Minimah tourney enters s/finals IfeanyI eduzor

T

he semi finals of the ongoing maiden Kenneth Minimah National Men and Women Open Boxing Championship will be decided today at the Indoor Sports Hall of the National Stadium, Lagos.

In some of the quarter final bouts decided yesterday at the same venue, Lagos Boy, Azeez Dauda, and Osagie Friday of the Nigeria Security and Civil

Defence Corps defeated their opponents to qualify for the last four in their age categories.

Other boxers who made it to the semi finals are Udeme Johnson of Akwa Ibom State, Rasheed Oyakojo of Ogun State and Onyeka Uchejimare of Bayelsa State.

Also through to the semi final is Waheed Shogbamu of the Nigeria Security Civil Defence Corps who gained a technical knockout over Kabiru Salawu of Rivers State in round two of their three rounds quarter

final bout.

Another semi finalist is Oluwaseyi Adegboyega of Akwa Ibom State that out punched James Lucky from Oyo State 3-0 while Mutiu Egbeyemi of Benue State defeated Soyoyi Kazeem of Ogun State 3-0 to also move into today’s semi finals.

Meanwhile activities marking the championship will end tomorrow with the final bouts of all the 16 weight categories to be decided at the same venue.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

I have no contract with NFF –Okon Mercy Jacob

F

ormer Super Falcons coach, Edwin Okon, has said that he has no contract with the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), saying he has taken his situation in good faith.

Okon, who spoke to National Mirror yesterday, said the football house had promised him a formal contract since last year but did not fulfill same until he was sacked on Monday.

“The NFF owed myself and my crew six months’ salary but we were not paid a dime before we were booted out despite se-

ries of reminder,” the gaffer, who led the Super Falcons to a failed mission at the recent FIFA Women’s World Cup in Canada and has since returned to Rivers Angles FC in Port Harcourt, said.

“The sack did not shock me because coaching is all about hiring and firing,” he added, stressing, “I just want to put the record straight that I did not sign any contract with NFF.” Okon, however, said he has opted to move on.

“I want to concentrate on Rivers Angels and ensure that we defend the FA Cup we won last year,” he further said.

Okon

Lagos to host maiden Kiddies Olympics afolabi GaMbari

A

rrangement is at advanced stage by Lagos State to host the maiden Kiddies Olympics from October 24 to 31.

The competition, which will target primary school pupils in Lagos, is packaged by Klozit Nigeria Limited in conjunction with National Association of SUBEB Sports Officers, Lagos branch.

CEO of Klotiz and Head of the competition’s Project Management Team, Mr. Nurudeen Aluko, said the Olympics would provide platform for boys and girls in Lagos’ primary schools to expose their talent in a competitive environment.

“The tournament is borne out of the need to discover young athletes at their early ages as we believe there should be a platform to reward hard work and stimulate fun for them,” Aluko said.

“We are working in concert with Isaac Daniels and in collaboration with State Universal basic Education Board and Association of Lagos SUBEB Sport officers.

“There will be football, track and field, scrabble, table tennis, and handball events and we expect about 2, 000 public and private schools to participate.”

Aluko also canvassed support

Sports

Friday, July 3, 2015

from corporate organizations, sports ministries and sport associations as well as governmental bodies and individuals.

“We plan to take this noble idea to the national level beginning with south west zone edition next year,” he added.

Meanwhile, National President of SUBEB Sport Directors, Prince Olu Akapo, has said the tournament will feature U-13 boys and girls in the 2015/2016 school session.

“The Kiddies Olympics Mascot will be unveiled very soon,” Akapo said, adding that pre-selection of athletes across Local Government Education Authorities (LGEA) and the six Educational District in Lagos State, from where finalists for the weeklong event would emerge, would commence soon.

Lagos DOS, Tandoh

MANDATE

THE

SylveSter Ikuejamoye

mopheys13@gmail.com 0805-407-1194 (SMS only)

Issa Hayatou and the moral burden

T

he Confederation of African Football (CAF) is the umbrella body for football matters in Africa. It is the sole body regulating the activities and the affairs of football on the continent.

President of the organization, Mr. Issa Hayatu, is from Cameroun and has presided over the affairs of CAF for 27 years. However, it is curious and possibly heart breaking, aside from being intricately unexplainable, to figure and imagine that Cameroun has not hosted any notable activity of CAF, much less the Africa Cup of Nations.

It is a common saying globally that charity begins at home. But this seems not to be the case with Hayatou. It is difficult to situate the inability of Cameroun to host the AFCON for more than three decades to the best of my knowledge, despite the country being one of the big football nations in Africa.

Hayatou I’m personally unhappy and disappointed with the prevailing fact that Hayatou who would want other countries in Africa to host the Nations Cup but has not convinced his own home country to host the competition for once. It is only reasonable to ask the CAF president what would become of his presidency of CAF if other countries in Africa evade hosting the competition? He cannot justify eating fat on the sweat of other people’s efforts. It is also morally wrong of him to preside over an edifice made possible by other peoples’ selfless service and sacrifice.

It is a matter of fact that CAF would have been dead if other countries in Africa should behave like Hayatou’s Cameroun. It is ridiculous to note that smaller countries in Africa like Gabon and Equatorial Guinea have hosted the AFCON competition. The lack of interest in hosting the most glamorous crowd pulling sport in Africa by Cameroun, the country home of Hayatou, should be of great concern to all ardent followers of football in Africa.

The 2015 Nations Cup was heading for the rocks when the initial country to host the competition suddenly withdrew from hosting and CAF was left panting with mouth literally agape. It takes the special intervention of Equatorial Guinea who was magnanimous

enough to bail out the organiser already in a state of complete confusion and quagmire by accepting to host the competition.

It is not out of place to assume that when CAF is faced with such an embarrassing near neckbreaking scenario, the CAF President should rely on home support.

The fact that Cameroun is on a serious deficit when counting countries that have hosted the Nations Cup should have given Hayatou, a Camerounian, an opportunity to convince his home government to come to his rescue. It is a known fact that the occupiers of the prestigious position of CAF presi-

dent c a r r y with it a lot of clout and influence where ever he goes within and outside the continent. It would be of a bad taste if Hayatou should lack this at home.

My take is that he should be seen at home as a notable figure of pride in Cameroun, maybe as a reference point with sound and huge home support base for the number one football seat in Africa.

However, the body language of Cameroun toward CAF programmes and activities with particular reference to the hosting of the Nations Cup leaves much room for permutations. That is, it is either Hayatou lacks home support or that he is a lone ranger or that his home government does not have any confidence in him.

Although the number of years he has spent as president has brought some improvement and innovation to football administration in Africa. It is important for Hayatou to engage in self-appraisal without being selfish about it.

It is absolutely possible to know when you are at the top of your capacity and should be able to know when depreciation sets in.

I believe that it is time for Hayatou to consider a suitable exit date from CAF presidency. He should

55

not wait till when CAF falls into the abysmal level of FIFA’s stroke of embarrassment before taking a dignified exit. To wait any longer may not be in his interest. A man of over 70 years should learn from what has happened to a colleague in a similar circumstance. FIFA President Joseph Sepp Blatter and Hayatou are known to be best of friends in a similar trade, marketing same product; Blatter at world level and Hayatou at continental level. Blatter is in his late 70s while Hayatou is in his early 70s. Blatter is ending his over 40 years of attachment to football rather dishonourably. He has offered to step down as a result of monumental fraud unearthed by FBI investigators and the Swiss security personnel. Hayatou can spare himself the stress of the mess that may surface in CAF sooner than later.

The moral burden hanging on Hayatou is enormous.

The humble advice that was ignored As a Nigerian, a keen observer and follower of unfolding political events in the country with particular reference to the defections from the massively mismanaged and fatally wounded PDP to the pre-election of ever blossoming and growing and promising APC, I had warned repeatedly here against the level of defections of this latter-rain change singers who are the same people that destroyed the PDP. They have almost torn APC into pieces now. In a congregation of decent like minds, the collective interest of the congregation should be paramount and non-negotiable as number one. Anything in the contrary can only be seen and witnessed in the animal’s kingdom where reasoning and common sense are scarce commodities. That no one can be taller than the roof of his house is a popular saying in Africa.

Most Nigerians were desirous of a positive change as preached by the real APC leadership. Nigerians were indeed happy when it was achieved. But few weeks after with what is happening at the National Assembly, the opinion among most Nigerians now is that it must have been hijacked. Most of those that destroyed the PDP are at work to destroy the APC.

Hard but the bitter truth That you took part in tearing the umbrella for your selfish interest can now be understood in your avowed determination to dismember the broom for the same self-centeredness. A known havoc wrecker both within the home front and to the out-side world should be fully observed before being accepted to work with sane people. Otherwise, he will go back to his stock in trade and the collective interest will be the victim.

Hard But The Bitter Truth.

Until next week Friday, stay out of trouble and God bless Nigeria.

WORLD RECORD

Tallest donkey

Vol. 05 No. 1148

Friday, July 3, 2015

N150

The tallest donkey living is Romulus, a 9-year-old American Mammoth Jackstock, who measured 17 hands (172.72 cm; 5 ft 8 in) tall on 8 February 2013, and is owned by Cara and Phil Yellott of Red Oak, Texas, USA.

States and price of prodigal leadership

‘L

egislooters’! That was the harsh baptismal name an online medium, ‘Street Journal’, gave to lawmakers in 2012 to ridicule the profligate jamboree – shopping spree – of Oyo State House of Assembly members’ wives in London that year. While their husbands were returning from a working visit to South Africa, their wives flew to the United Kingdom on a frivolous sight-seeing dubbed as ‘husband support training’. The eight-day training ended up gulping about N50 million, reports claimed. The partying would probably have lasted longer but for the anger and protestations of Oyo State indigenes in London. The irate protesters, on getting wind of the jamboree, stormed the Custom House London Hotel, where the visiting 31 women, led by the then Speaker of the House, Jumoke Sumonu, lodged, and staged a peaceful demonstration. Sumonu, now perplexed and roundly embarrassed,

R

eports yesterday said Nigerian junior international, Musa Mohammed, has signed a three-year contract with an option for an additional year with Turkish Super League club Istanbul Basaksehir FK. Last season, the club

FRIDAY WITH Dozie Okebalama

dozieokeama@yahoo.co.uk 08164966858 (SMS only) called in the London police. The protesters were eventually dispersed.

But the panic-stricken women tucked in their tails in between their legs and fled London almost immediately. Sumonu was to tell the media later: “Oyo is not the only state doing this. Some other states had been around before… everywhere in the world, leaders get paid from public funds; the only thing is to ensure that money is judiciously spent”. For her, the most prudent application of public fund was the London ‘husband support training’.

Later, it became the turn of the Delta State House of Assembly, which embarked on three weeks leadership training in the United States at an estimated cost of N150 million. On the trip were 40 people.

It was, therefore, with obvious candour that Sumonu confessed that Oyo was not the only state doing it. In their different ways, the leadership (executive) in most states compromised their readily pliable legislature with all manner of appetizing treats to fool the dog and have it look the other way; while state coffers were raped with unspeakable impunity.

Even states that were unable to pay N18,000 as minimum wage or owed workers’ salaries partook in the bazaar. They bought private jets and helicopters; and erected impossible white elephant projects. Now they are all broke. They can’t pay workers’ salaries for God knows how

EVEN STATES THAT WERE UNABLE TO PAY

N18,000 AS MINIMUM WAGE OR OWED WORKERS’ SALARIES PARTOOK IN THE BAZAAR many months. Armed with begging bowels like prodigal kids, their eyes are now fixed on Abuja and anything that can drop from there for sharing. On their own as independent tiers of government, which they claim to be, they have virtually nothing to offer.

Nigeria has 36 states, all having Houses of Assembly. On the average, each state assembly comprises of over 20 members placed on bloated salaries and allowances.

They all have a retinue of staff, too. In addition to their padded pay, facts point to an embarrassing Mount Everest-like irrelevant and wasteful expenditure, from Abuja to the remotest of the 774 local government areas. By the time the corporate waste the executive (Presidency, Governors, LG Chairmen); National Assembly (NASS’ 109 senators and 360 Representatives) and the judiciary guzzle is calculated, the cumulative sum becomes a lavishly wealthy Nigeria that parades no hope for her largely poverty-stricken citizens.

Marcel Mbamalu’s report: “Oil Curse:

So Much Money… So Much Poverty”, three years ago (Nigeria Intel) spoke of a leaked report based on a probe commissioned by the Presidency, which alleged that $29 billion was lost in the last decade in an apparent price-fixing scam involving the sale of natural gas. “The document also claimed that the country loses $6 billion a year to oil theft. Four months after the report from a committee chaired by Nuhu Ribadu, former Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) boss, former World Bank Vice President, Oby Ezekwesili, stoked a new debate at her University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) Convocation lecture, when she alleged that two administrations alone frittered $67 billion reserves, part of which were accruals to the Excess Crude Account (ECA), in the last six years.

“These allegations, for several weeks, remained issues of public discourse, eliciting statements from US’ Bill Clinton and western governments over the way Nigeria’s oil wealth were managed over the years… There is no doubt that Nigeria earned far more from oil in the last 10 years than was the case within the 20-year stretch of between 1979 and 1999. Going by official figures from the Nigeria Bureau of Statistics (NBS), the country in the last 31 years has raked in about N51.50 trillion as proceeds from oil. Between 2000 and 2011, it earned N48.40 trillion, as against N3.10 trillion it received between 1979 and 1999”, Mbamalu says.

Nigeria is, indeed, rich! But recurrent expenditure consumes all. What ends up as capital expenditure for infrastructural development and investment in economic growth rarely surpasses 25 percent or less of each year’s budget. How then can the poor truly benefit from the country’s massive wealth? How? Reports say not even the nation’s 193,200km (34,123km federal; 30,500km state; and 129,577km local government) roads are truly motorable, notwithstanding huge budgetary allocations set aside for them on yearly basis. No wonder we are still where we are!

Sport Extra Contract: Basaksehir snaps Flying Eagles captain finished fourth in the Turkish Super League and will feature in the UEFA Europa League this next campaign.

The club also has a new stadium and enjoys massive support from the

Turkish government.

Mohammed’s signing has smashed off late interests from German Bundesliga side Hamburg SV and Rosenborg of Norway, among several other top European clubs.

The Flying Eagles is already in Turkey with the permission of Nigeria U-23 team Coach Samson Siasia to be excluded from the team’s preparation for the Olympics 2016 qualifier against Congo this

month.

The 18-year-old pacing right back from FC Hearts of Abuja led Nigeria to the knockout rounds of the recent FIFA U-20 World Cup in New Zealand.

Mohammed

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