Friday, October 5, 2012 by GLOBAL MEDIA MIRROR LIMITED

Fresh attack in Adamawa poly We’ll soon unmask killers –Minister

OMEIZA AJAYI ABUJA

Nyako

Vol. 2 N0. 463

Bakassi:

gang of hoodlums yesterday attacked another institution, the Adamawa State Poly-

technic, Yola, leaving two students critically injured. This followed Monday night’s killing of 40 students of three institutions in Mubi, a border town with Cameroun in the state,

after a prolonged shooting by gunmen. Speaking yesterday on the development, the Rector of the institution, Prof. Abdullahi Bobboi, appealed CONTINUED ON PAGE 5>>

COUNTDOWN TO

ONDO GUBER POLL October 20, 2012

DAYS TO GO

ACN demands redeployment of CP Mimiko’s govt owes N110bn debts, says Oke

P.13

Friday, October 5, 2012

N150 ROTIMI FADEYI, K AYODE KETEFE, TORDUE SALEM AND WALE IGBINTADE

FG bows to Senate I

...set to appeal ICJ judgement Nigeria’s claim, baseless –Ajomo

ndications emerged yesterday that the Federal Government was preparing to file an appeal against the International Court of Justice, ICJ, ruling on the Bakassi peninsula. President Goodluck Jonathan yesterday set up CONTINUED ON PAGE 2>>

Ibrahim

Jonathan replaces Petirin as CDS, Ihejirika remains COAS L-R: Osun State Governor, Rauf Aregbesola; wife of Action Congress of Nigeria gubernatorial candidate, Mercy Akeredolu; ACN National Chairman, Chief Bisi Akande; Ogun State Governor, Ibikunle Amosun; the party’s candidate in Ondo State, Mr. Rotimi Akeredolu; former Governor of Ogun State, Chief Segun Osoba; Osun State Deputy Governor, Mrs. Titi Laoye-Tomori and ACN National Leader, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, at the campaign rally in Ore, Ondo State, yesterday. PHOTO: YINKA ADEPARUSI

Reps begin probe of $1.1bn Shell-Malabu oil deal

Voter’s card now acceptable as bank customer’s ID P.5,39 Tribunal declares Obanikoro winner of Ikoyi/Obalende LCDA P.8 P.?

Misconduct: Taraba Assembly impeaches deputy gov

P.6

EFCC arraigns fresh suspects over N10bn fuel subsidy scam Lamorde

Commission’s staff jailed for fraud P.6

News

Friday, October 5, 2012

FG set to appeal ICJ judgement CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

a committee to look at the option of appealing the ICJ judgement ceding the oilrich Bakassi peninsula to Cameroun. Nigeria has till October 9 to appeal the ICJ ruling which was delivered on October 10, 2002. The decision to explore the option of appeal was reached at a closed-door meeting between the President, the leadership of the National Assembly and other stakeholders at the State House, Abuja. The meeting, which started on Wednesday night, ended early hours of yesterday. Cross River State Governor, Liyel Imoke, told journalists after the meeting that the committee would consider how to take care of the displaced people of Bakassi. Imoke, who did not disclose the composition of the committee, said it would work within record time. He said that the President had shown great leadership quality by convening the meeting and standing firm on some of the decisions taken. The Senate President, David Mark, also said that the executive and the lawmakers were now on the same page on the Bakassi issue. He added that they would work together to achieve results. Former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Bola Ajibola, who was at the meeting, said that the Federal Government had shown “candid” concern about the issue. He commended the move by the government to dialogue and insistence on the rule of law and diplomacy to ensure that Nigeria secured justice and the people were not wrongly dealt with. Ajibola expressed optimism that the committee would handle the matter accordingly and in record time. Vice-President Namadi Sambo; Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Aminu Tambuwal; Akwa Ibom governor, Godswill Akpabio; the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. Anyim Pius Anyim and the Minister of Justice and Attorney-

General of the Federation, Mohammed Adoke, were at the meeting. The decision of the Federal Government to appeal the judgement was also contained in a letter to the House of Representatives by Adoke. The AGF sought the deferment of an investigative hearing by the House into an alleged fraudulent sale by the Federal Government of an oil block to oil companies to allow his office pursue an appeal of the judgement. “I most respectively write to request the postponement of the public hearing scheduled to take place from October 4-5 to another date to enable me to attend to the urgent review of the 2002 ICJ judgement in respect of the Cameroun/Nigeria boundary dispute,” he told the committee. Adoke was also invited to the ad hoc committee hearing being chaired by House Deputy Leader, Leo Ogor, to give a submission of his office’s role in the sale of the Oil Prospecting Licence (OPL) 245 for an oil bloc to Shell/Agip Consortium and Malabu Oil and Gas Limited for $1.092bn. The House deputy leader also confirmed the preparedness of the Federal Government to appeal the judgement. He said: “I can inform to you that Mr. President called a meeting in respect of this issue and I was privileged to be there where he directed the AGF to act immediately in line with the resolution of the House of Representatives. “The President told the AGF to prepare and file for a review within the window period. “Mr. President, in his wisdom, said ‘go ahead and make sure that anything worth doing is worth doing well.’ “President Jonathan said let’s give it a trial and see how we can find a solution to the issue of Bakassi because it has become a recurring decimal. “As a responsive and responsible parliament, we have refused to ratify the ICJ judgement in line with Section 12 of the constitution because we are not convinced that Bakassi should go.” Ogor added that because of the development, he had to reschedule the appear-

ance of the justice minister as requested in his letter. According to him: “It was on the basis of the request for a reschedule of appearance that I could not make further comment when the AGF wrote to the ad hoc committee that he would not be able to make it to the public hearing as a result of the President’s directive on the Bakassi issue because they were given a timeframe within which to look into the subject matter and find a solution to it. “This House is doing all it can to ensure that the issue of Bakassi is resolved once and for all. We believe that it is purely a constitutional issue and we have

taken an oath of allegiance to defend the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.” The Senate had last week unanimously passed a resolution mandating the President to appeal the ICJ ruling on Bakassi because of the new facts that had emerged over the matter. The people of Bakassi have been agitating against the ceding of the oil-rich peninsula to the Republic of Cameroun through the Green Tree Agreement, which was signed by former President Olusegun Obasanjo. The judgement also rendered Cross River, a non-littoral state and has attracted

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harsh criticisms from Nigerians and the people of Bakassi. Some members of the area have even threatened to embark on self-rule. This has already been followed by the hoisting of the flag and coat of arms of the Bakassi people. Tension, anger and uncertainty have heightened in Cross River State, as political and cultural leaders engaged in critical talks on the matter. Hon. Nkoyo Toyo, who represents Calabar/Odukpani Federal Constituency at the House of Representatives, said the main reason why the people of Cross River State were angry with

the judgement was that “what befell Bakassi was responsible for where we are today with regard to the 76 oil wells that were awarded to Akwa Ibom State.” Toyo, a lawyer, said that although she was not in court when the recent apex court’s judgement was delivered, she heard that the judges had relied on a letter written by former President Olusegun Obasanjo, stating that Cross River State was entitled to the 76 oil wells on account of the Federal Government’s ongoing negotiations with Cameroun to retain Western Bakassi. She said: “If there was an CONTINUED ON PAGE 5>>

L-R: Executive Director, Corporate Banking, First Bank Plc, Mr. Kehinde Lawanson; President, Cocoa Association of Nigeria, Mr. Sayina Riman; Adamawa State Governor, Murtala Nyako; Chairman, First Bank, Prince Ajibola Afonja and Chief of Party, World Cocoa Foundation, Amb. Sonai Ebai, during the First International Cocoa Conference in Ibadan, yesterday. PHOTO: NAN

Reps begin probe of $1.1bn Shell/Malabu oil deal TORDUE SALEM ABUJA

he House of Representatives has initiated an enquiry into allegations that the Ministry of Petroleum Resources failed to remit the $1.092bn signature bonus realised from the sale of an oil block covered by Oil Prospecting Licence (OPL) 245 to Shell/ Agip Consortium and Malabu Oil and Gas Limited to the Federation Account. Signature bonuses are monies realised from the sale of OPL to oil companies. The funds realised from such sales by the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation on behalf of the government are expected to be remitted to the Federation Account as stipulated in section 162 of the 1999 Constitution. Eyebrows had been raised in the oil industry

about the deal as the money collected from the Shell/Eni venture was reportedly paid into accounts controlled by Malabu Oil, which is owned by the Minister of Petroleum Resources during the Sani Abacha era, Chief Dan Etete and then shared among powerful individuals that facilitated the deal. Etete, who was convicted of money laundering in France in 2007, had had a running battle with the government after the oil block was seized by the Obasanjo regime. An international watchdog Global Witness had queried the deal in May asking why the Federal Government, acting as obligor, agreed that the sales proceeds be transferred to Malabu. Both Shell and ENI have denied paying any money to Malabu Oil and Gas in respect of the licence and suggest that their agreements

were only with the Nigerian Government, according to court documents filed in New York. The Attorney General of the Federation, Mr Bello Adoke, had however been quoted as stating that Shell and and ENI “agreed to pay Malabu, through the Federal Government acting as an obligor, the sum of US$1,092,040,000 in full and final settlement of any and all claims, interests or rights relating to or in connection with Block 245.” Reports have also claimed that the Nigerian government has instructed the release of almost 80 per cent of the funds paid for OPL245 (US$801,540,000) into accounts controlled by Malabu, and that this money was subsequently shared through a set of complex corporate structures to accounts owned by a number of Nigerian companies and individuals.

The deals were reportedly arranged by lawyers and consultants hired by Malabu. But the Ministry of Finance and its agencies – Federal Inland Revenue Service, FIRS, Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, the Accountant-General of the Federation’s Office and the Ministry of Petroleum and its relevant agencies, which had been invited to clear the air on the allegation, did not turn up at a two-day investigative hearing that began yesterday with relevant documents to aid the panel with its enquiry. House Deputy Leader, Hon. Leo Okuweh Ogor, who is also the Chairman of the panel investigating the transaction between the Federal Government and the consortium, however said the ad hoc committee “would get to the root of the allegations.” CONTINUED ON PAGE 5>>

SAM EFERARO

hinking of a leisure this weekend? A dip in the swimming pool could be what you need to overcome the boredom of weekend inactivity and give your health a boost in the process ... and this is from the experts! Just consider this: A new study at the University of South Carolina has shown that swimming cuts men’s risk of dying by about 50% compared to runners, walkers and sedentary peers. The evaluated comprehensive physical exams and behavioural surveys from thousands of people who were enrolled in the Aerobics Centre Longitudinal Study (ACLS) over the last 32 years and revealed that swimmers had the lowest death rate. According to the research findings published in the International Journal of Aquatic Research and Education recently, the study which took into account age, body mass index, smoking status, alcohol intake, hypertension also other medical factors and family history revealed that swimming improved health far better than other physical activities including running. “This is the first report that examined mortality rates among swimmers in comparison with other types of physical activity and sedentary lifestyle. We conclude that men who swim for exercise have better survival rates than their sedentary peers. Swimming provides a healthful alternative to traditional modes of exercise for improving cardio-respiratory fitness and health for the general population, as well as for patients suffering from chronic diseases. Swimming may be a good alternative exercise for individuals who cannot participate in running or other forms of physical activity,” says Dr. Steven Blair, leader of the research team. Indeed experts have discovered long ago that swimming is not only an effective workout that is beneficial for the human body but also a perfect exercise for relaxing the mind. It offers something no other aerobic exercise does: the ability to work your body without harsh impact to your skeletal system. This is because, according to the experts, when the human body is submerged in water, it automatically becomes lighter. When immersed to the waist, the body bears just 50 percent of its weight; and this reduces to between 25 and 35 percent when immersed up to the chest. With water all the way to the neck, the individual will be bearing only 10

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PAGE

Friday, October 5, 2012

Good Health Why you should go swimming this weekend

Swimming cuts risk of dying by about 50%

Courtesy IITA

percent of his own weight, which is why it offers the ideal exercise for people who are overweight or suffering from arthritis, stiff muscles and sore joints. A web site for swimmers, swimming. about.com lists 15 health benefits of swimming and why you should head straight for a nearby swimming pool this weekend. •Swimming works practically all of the muscles in the body (if you do a variety of strokes). Swimming can develop a swimmer’s general strength, cardiovascular fitness and endurance. •Swimming helps maintain the blood pressure and cholesterol of an individual thus ensuring the well being of his/her heart. • It is good for the health of your lungs and also reduces the risk of stroke, heart attack and diabetes. • Swimming enhances the flexibility of your joints and provides the scope for boosting your physical activity workout level. In other words, it helps a great deal in your

weight loss program. • It is perfect for those people who have a hard time carrying out weight-bearing, land-based physical activities. This is because your weight in water is about 1/10 of your weight on land. • Spending time in a group workout, whether water aerobics or a master’s swim practice, is a great social outlet. Exchanging stories, challenging each other, and sharing in the hard work make swimming with others a rewarding experience • For pregnant women as well as for people who are suffering from arthritis and back pain problem, there can be no better workout choice than swimming. • Swimming minimizes the risk of injuries from physical activity. So, you can easily try out the delightful exercise and enjoy the health fitness benefits it offers, without any attached risk. • If indulged in on a regular basis, swimming can help build the endurance, muscle strength and cardio-vascular fitness of an

individual. • You can indulge in swimming before as well as after a strenuous workout on ground, as a warm-up and cool-down activity, respectively. • It helps a person exercise almost all the muscles of his/her body, with the main focus being on arms and legs. • People suffering from injuries, back pain, arthritis and disabilities, who cannot indulge in a normal workout, can undertake swimming. • Swimming has been associated with relieving the joint pains, high blood pressure and discomfort that are often experienced during pregnancy. • Indulging in swimming can help postsurgery patients, who adopt an otherwise sedentary lifestyle, avoid muscular atrophy. • It is found to have soothing effect on the mind as well as the body of a person, mainly by regulating breathing and stimulating circulation

YOUR RIGHT TO KNOW

Eating meat may have made us human! – Anthropologist ago

skull fragment unearthed by anthropologists in Tanzania shows that our ancient ancestors were eating meat at least 1.5 million years ago, shedding new light into the evolution of human physiology and brain development. “Meat eating has always been considered one of the things that made us human, with the protein contributing to the growth of our brains,” said Charles Musiba, Ph.D., associate professor of anthropology at the University of Colo-

rado Denver, who helped make the discovery. “Our work shows that 1.5 million years ago we were not opportunistic meat eaters, we were actively hunting and eating meat.” The study was published October 3 in the peer-reviewed journal PLOS ONE. The two-inch skull fragment was found at the famed Olduvai Gorge in northern Tanzania, a site that for decades has yielded numerous clues into the evolution of modern humans and is sometimes called `the cradle of mankind.’ —ScienceDaily

Discovery leads to new hope against ovarian cancer

cientists at have discovered a new type of drug for the treatment of ovarian cancer that works in a way that should not only decrease the number of doses that patients need to take, but also may make it effective for patients whose cancer has become drug-resistant. The drug, which so far has been tested in the lab on ovarian cancer cells and on mice tumors, was unveiled recently

month in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS). “We need a new generation of drugs,” said Shili Xu, a USC graduate student and lead author of the PNAS paper. “We

need to overcome the drugresistance issue.” The drug is a member of a new class of cytotoxic agents abbreviated as PACMA that was discovered by testing roughly 10,000 chemical compounds on cancer cells in the lab of Nouri Neamati, professor of pharmacology and pharmaceutical sciences at the USC School of Pharmacy, and a co-corresponding author of the paper.

PhotoNews

Friday, October 5, 2012

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

L-R: Deputy Coordinator, The Muslim Congress, Lagos State chapter, Ustadh Sherifdeen Ibrahim; Treasurer, Alhaji Hussein Taiwo and External Affairs Officer, Alhaji Yahaya Adetola, during the visit of the congress to PHOTO: AJASA OLUFEMI National Mirror head office, yesterday.

L-R: President/Chief Executive, Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote; Chief Executive Officer, Tiger Brands Limited, Mr. Peter Matlare and the Chief Operation Officer, Dangote Group, Mr. Olakunle Alake (middle), during the signing ceremony of the divestment of shares of Dangote Flour Mills Plc (DFM) to Tiger Brands at Dangote Group’s corporate head office in Lagos, yesterday.

L-R: Chairman of the occasion, Dr. Christopher Kolade; Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Rev. Father Matthew Hassan Kukah and President, Chartered Institute of Personnel Management of Nigeria, Mr. Abiola Popoola, PHOTO: ROTIMI OSASONA during the 44th annual national conference of the institute in Abuja, yesterday.

L-R: Nollywood actress, Maureen Ihua; Master Brand Specialist, MTN, Mr. Effiok Osu; wife of the winner of N2m, MTN Ultimate Wonder promo, Darlington Itoje and Director, Regulatory/Monitoring, Nigerian Lottery Regulatory Commission, Prince Jemiriwa Emmanuel at the 3rd cash prize presentation in Onitsha, yesterday.

National News

Three die as flood cuts off Ughelli-Asaba road Flood disaster hits 20 states, says Minister UN blames flooding on poor town planning either from the Na- ment Agency (NEMA) for No hope in sight for travellers on Lokoja-Abuja road terials tional Emergency Manage- the relocation of displaced-

MURITALA AYINLA, EMMA GBEMUDU AND OLUFEMI ADEOSUN

t least three persons reportedly lost their lives at the relief camp in Ivrogbo, Isoko South Local Government Area of Delta State following the trauma of rescuing victims from communities affected by massive flooding, prompting the authorities to relocate the survivors to St Michaels Primary School, Oleh, which is the headquarters of the council. Among the communities submerged by the flood are Ovrode, Ofagbe, OkpeIsoko, Lagos Iyede, Igeh, Ikpede, Onogboko, Itebioge, Exiro, Iyede-Ame, Azagba, Otoka-Ekegbresi, Egbeme, Warri-Irri, Iwrie-Ogbokor, Ekpe, Asafo, Ivrogbo and Ashaka, all from Isoko North and South as well as Ndokwa East Local Government Areas of the state. Meanwhile, motorists plying the Ughelli-Asaba Expressway have diverted to other routes following

the overflow of flood water around Osisa, extending to Ashaka and Aboh in Ndokwa East. Transport fares by road and water have hit the rooftop, in some cases as high as 500 percent. However, Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Comrade Ovuozourie Macaulay, along with other members of the Isoko political class, have mobilised over 36 speed and engine boats to help in the rescue of people still trapped in riverine areas of the state. Clothes, foodstuff and other medicaments were also provided by the group. Explaining the situation to journalists monitoring the effect of the flood, Commissioner for Land, Survey and Urban Development, Sir Patrick Ferife, said political office holders from Isoko, led by the SSG were deeply touched by the damage caused by the flood and pooled resources to provide palliatives to the victims. Former Chairman of the Delta State Post Primary Board, Chief (Mrs.) Evelyn Aluta while addressing the

survivors, urged them to remain calm as efforts by the Isoko political class and the state government would yield the desired results. Minister of the Environment and Chairman, Presidential Committee on Flood Disaster, Hadiza Mailafia, yesterday said that at least 20 states in the country were ravaged by the flood that was displaced several persons. Mailafia said the inhabitants failed to heed the early warning signals to vacate their areas due to possible flood in those areas. The minister spoke in Yenagoa shortly after an assessment tour of the flood situation in communities in Sagbama Local Government of the state. She said that government had evolved measures to address the problem. Investigation by National Mirror revealed that there are growing concerns over the non-establishment of temporary relief camps by the state government for the displaced persons. It was learnt that some victims in the communities are yet to receive relief ma-

ment Agency (NEMA) or from the state government. Mailafia was accompanied on the tour by Governor Seriake Dickson, the Minister of Water Resources, Sarah Ochekpe and Minister of State for Works and Infrastructure, Bashir Yuguda. Her words: “The enormity of the flood was clearly beyond what a state government could handle. “It is a national emergency capable of affecting food production. The committee has been going round the country since the flood incidence started. The Federal Government will initiate programmes that will prevent similar occurrence in the future.” Earlier, Governor Seriake Dickson, who had conducted an assessment tour of some flood ravaged communities in the state said the entire state was affected by the flood leaving some thousands displaced in the fragile Niger Delta ecology. “The state government has started sending relief materials to the affected people. I thanked the National Emergency Manage-

persons,” he said. Reports yesterday said despite the assurance from the Federal Government to speedily address the stalemate on the Lokoja-Abuja road, there seems to be no hope that their suffering will end soon. The reason for this is not far-fetched; work on the alternative route, after the real road has been completely submerged, was stalked due to increasing pressure on the road. One of the travelers on the road, Mr. Tijani Rasak, who shared his experience with journalists who were part of the Federal Ministry of Works’ delegation to the failed portion of the road, said the companies drafted by the government to fix the road would not make any head way except vehicular movements on the road are temporary halted. Rasak, who said he had been on the road since Monday, lamented the slow pace of work on the road. However, the Acting Director, Highways, North Central, Engr. Osemeilu Ihenyen, linked the traffic

gridlock on the road to heavy vehicular movements. He absolved the Federal Government of any dereliction, insisting that the Nigerian populace should hold the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) for its failure to control the traffic. Ihenyen said rather than condemn the government; it should be commended for moving in quickly to bring succour to the thousands of travellers plying the road. Meanwhile, the United Nations Habitat Programme Manager in Nigeria, Mr. Kabir Yari, yesterday blamed the massive flooding ravaging the country on improper town planning. Speaking during the 2012 World Habitat Day, the UN Habitat Programme Manager, said although other factors may be responsible for the massive flood recorded in the nation recently, he averred that unplanned growth of cities leads to chaotic development. The UN envoy, who spoke on the theme of the theme entitled: “Changing Cities’ Building Opportunities,” urged the government at all levels to ensure that land is efficiently and sustainably utilised.”

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Friday, October 5, 2012

Fresh attack in Adamawa poly

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2

to law enforcement agents to immediately take measures to protect the students following the invasion. He said that the school came under attack from some miscreants allegedly led by one ‘Abdul Black’, whom, he said was believed to have gained access into the polytechnic complex through the Jimeta police barracks. Bobboi said that two students who were critically injured during the invasion had been placed on admission at the Yola Specialist Hospital. “We have complained again and again, time with-

out number to the police authorities in Yola, to intervene, as the security breach is now reaching an alarming rate,” he said. Meanwhile, the Christian Association of Nigerian, CAN, yesterday said that the directive by President Goodluck Jonathan to security agencies to fish out the killers of over 40 students in Mubi was not enough. CAN, in a statement issued in Abuja and signed by its National General Secretary, Rev. Musa Asake, urged the President to ensure that the perpetrators were fished out and punished accordingly.

The statement reads: “It is with a heavy heart that the Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, received the news of the killing of over 40 students of the Federal Polytechnic, Mubi; Adamawa State University and the School of Health Technology, all in Adamawa State, on the night of the Independence Day. “After a careful study of the various reports on the issue coupled with the latest information that there is currently a stampede by students and lecturers,

who have taken advantage of the free period preceding the curfew imposed by the state government to flee the institutions, CAN vehemently condemns the barbaric act of the gunmen suspected to be members of the Boko Haram. “It commiserates with families who lost their loved ones, students and authorities of the affected institutions. “CAN rejects the theory of election dispute as responsible for the massacre of over 40 students, hav-

ing regards to the manner it was reportedly carried out. “It believes that the reason is phony and that such a theory, arrived at in haste, can only serve to shield the real culprits and cover up their motives. “We are, however, consoled by the directive of President Jonathan that security agencies should “promptly arrest” the killers of the students. “But CAN is of the view that the Federal Government should go beyond this

directive and ensure that those caught are made to face the full weight of the laws of our land. “It is unacceptable to CAN that students whose parents have spent fortunes on their education would be cut down by some elements in the society whose trademark is blood and sorrow. “It is gratifying that some arrests have been made by the police. We call on the police authorities to ensure that those arrested are the real culprits so that CONTINUED ON PAGE 50>>

Reps begin probe of $1.1bn Shell/Malabu oil deal CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2

At a post-hearing press briefing, Ogor told journalists that the ministries of finance and petroleum resources held key documents that would aid the ad hoc committee in its enquiry into the allegations. He said: “The committee is not very happy that the ministries of finance and petroleum did not make presentations before the committee, bearing in mind that we communicated to them about this issue a long time ago. “The committee even sent a letter, a long time ago to notify the Ministry of Petroleum to make available documents that would help the committee establish the truth, but yet the ministry came to the hearing without any presentation. “The Accountant-General of the Federation did not respond to three letters on the OPL 245 and has still not responded. “The issue of signature bonuses (monies realised from OPLs) should be taken seriously because these signature bonuses are supposed to go into the Federation Account. “The AGF should wake up to his responsibilities. He is not the AccountantGeneral of the Federal Government. He is AccountantGeneral of the Federation. “The fact remains that we (lawmakers) must find out where the truth is and what happened. It is purely to prepare us for a better society. But we believe in the principle of fair hearing, so we would follow due process.”

Earlier, the Minority Whip of the House, Hon. Samson Osagie, warned the ministries to adopt the culture of respect for letters to them from the National Assembly or risk sanctions. Osagie noted that the claims by the two ministries that they did not receive letters, asking them to submit relevant information on the said OPL transaction, were false. He stressed that the alleged disregard for letters from the parliament by the ministries “must not be condoned”. But the Minister of Petroleum Resources, Mrs. Dieziani Alison-Madueke, in her defence, told the committee that she could not make a presentation because she was yet to receive the panel’s letter sent to her “since September 19, 2012”. The Minister of Finance, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, represented on the occasion by the Minister of State, Finance, Dr. Yerima Ngama, also said the ministry could not make a submission because it was yet to be properly briefed by the House on what it needed to present before the panel. Other agencies who were present when the hearing was opened by Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Aminu Tambuwal, also failed to make presentations. It will be recalled that the House had on May 31, 2012 passed a motion and mandated the committee to investigate all issues surrounding the controversial transaction.

Member, House Committee on Culture and Tourism, Hon. Abbas Machika; Deputy Chairman, Hon. Abdulmalik Usman and Artistic Director/Chief Executive Officer, National Troupe of Nigeria, Mr. Martins Adaji, during the committee’s visit to National Theatre in Lagos, yesterday. PHOTO: OLUFEMI AJASA

FG set to appeal ICJ judgement CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2

intention like that to take back Western Bakassi from Cameroun, the question that arises now is what has happened to that intention? “Has the Federal Government given up completely on the people of Cross River State?” Toyo noted that the Federal Government only had a short time “before Cameroun finally takes over Bakassi permanently.” She added that the people of the state felt sad about the judgement because” it looks like we have been completely abandoned by the Nigerian state. All this is happening because we seem to have lost Bakassi. “But before Bakassi was given up, the indigenous people and the Nigerian state were in possession for about 400 years.” She expressed the view that the agitation for the complete implementation of the Green Tree Agreement needs to be revisited. She said: “There should be absolutely no hurry in handing over Bakassi because the consequences

have not been addressed.” The lawmaker further opined that the Federal Government needs to lodge a complaint with the ICJ about the failure of the Green Tree Agreement in line with the provisions of the same agreement. “This is primarily because there are many Nigerians who have now become stateless; they are neither Nigerians nor Camerounians.” Nkoyo noted that there were many unanswered issues surrounding the controversial treaty including the map. “We are still looking for the official map that indicates the correct boundary between Nigeria and Cameroun. “That official map has not yet been published. All the maps that are available are illustrative – these are maps that are in the process of being developed but have not yet being authenticated. “If we can have such a map, it would be helpful to fundamentally address the situation,” he said. Meanwhile, lawyers are

divided on whether the Federal Government should appeal the ICJ ruling. A Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Dr. Abiodun Layonu, said: “The decision of the Federal Government is commendable because all available legal options must be exploited and we are talking about lives of a group of people, so no stone should be left unturned in order to see that justice is done. So, the directive of the Presidency is in line with the aspiration of the people of Bakassi. “Nigeria should go back to the drawing board and she should present a formidable legal team to ensure that she gets a favourable review.” Prof. Gabriel Olawoyin, SAN, also welcomed the planned appeal. “The decision of the Federal Government to appeal the judgement is a welcome development as the country is still within time to file an appeal. “It is a welcome development, we are still within time. Let us wait and see,” he said.

However, a renowned professor of law, Prof. Michael Ayodele Ajomo, had earlier told National Mirror that the peninsular does not belong to Nigeria. Ajomo said: “I am the authority on Bakassi in Nigeria today; nobody can claim knowledge of Bakassi as I do. Initially, when we were negotiating, President Paul Biya of Cameroun was prepared to give us concession, but Nigeria was insisting that Bakassi belonged to them. “Bakassi had never been, at anytime, in Nigerian territory. Since the 1913 treaty which gave the territory to the Cameroun, we have no claim. “If you look at our maps in those days, the entire map showed Bakassi to be in Cameroun, but the Nigerian government later gave instruction to the surveyorgeneral, who happens to be somebody I know very well, that they should put Bakassi on the Nigerian map. “But will that hold water when from time immemorial; Bakassi has been in the Camerounian territory? So, we were making a claim that was groundless.”

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Friday, October 5, 2012

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Subsidy scam: EFCC arraigns fresh suspects today A

… Commission’s staff jailed for fraud

ISE-OLUWA IGE ABUJA

ISE-OLUWA IGE AND K AYODE KETEFE

he Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, yesterday said that it was ready to arraign another batch of suspects in the ongoing trial of people and organisations implicated in the fuel subsidy scam. Barring hitches, the suspects comprising four companies and six individuals would be arraigned today before Justice Habeeb Abiru of the Lagos High Court. Among those to be prosecuted are Ifeanyi Anosike, Emeka Chukwu, Ngozi

Ekeoma, Alhaji Adamu Aliyu Maula, George Ogbonna and Emmanuel Morah. The companies involved are Anosyke Group of Companies Limited, Dell Energy Limited, Downstream Energy Sources Limited and Rocky Energy Limited. The suspects are among many others scheduled for arraignment by EFCC for the theft of N10.6bn in dubious subsidy claims. Anosyke Group of Companies, Ifeanyi Anosike, Dell Energy Limited, Emeka Chukwu and Ngozi Ekeoma would be arraigned on an eight-count charge bordering on conspiracy

to obtain by false pretence, forgery and uttering false documents to the tune of N1, 537,278,880.82, being payments fraudulently received from the Petroleum Support Fund for a purported supply of 15,000 metric tonnes of Premium Motor Spirit, PMS. Downstream Energy Sources Limited, Alhaji Adamu Aliyu Maula, Rocky Energy Limited, George Ogbonna and Emmanuel Morah would be on trial on an eight-count charge bordering on conspiracy to obtain property by false pretence, conspiracy to forge documents, forgery and utter-

ing false documents to the tune of N789,648,329.25, being payments fraudulently received from the Petroleum Support Fund for a purported supply of 14,273,0227 litres of PMS. Yesterday, a captain of a ship, Musa Mohammed and four members of his crew, were arraigned by the EFCC before Justice Okechukwu Okeke of a Federal High Court sitting in Ikoyi, for alleged illegal dealing in petroleum products. The crew members arraigned with Mohammed are Otuagoma Freeborn, James Onubi, Hassan Adekunle and Patrick Chinedu.

n Abuja High Court yesterday sentenced two officers of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Messrs Douglas William and Abba Ishaku, to five years in prison. The men were convicted on a four-count charge bordering on conspiracy and obtaining money under false pretence. The trial judge, Justice Abubakar Umar, who handed down the verdict, gave no option of fine. William and Ishaku were individually sentenced to two years each on counts one and two; and six months each on counts three and four. The sentences are, however, to run concurrently. The two officers were arrested in 2010 in a “sting operation”. Until their arrest, the men were stationed at the reception of the EFCC head-

quarters in Wuse, Abuja. Trouble started for them when they allegedly demanded N100,000 from Kullima Kachalla, former chairman of Bama Local Government in Borno State in 2010, by posing as investigators of the EFCC. They were alleged to have asked Kachalla to send them the money in order to bribe other investigators to destroy a petition written to the commission, which indicted him of alleged mismanagement of public funds. During the trial, the court was told that Kachalla alerted the EFCC of the action of the men, necessitating an undercover operation. An EFCC officer, posing as Kachalla’s representative arranged a meeting with the two men. In his ruling, Umar said because the convicts had suffered enough humiliation, their sentence should start from the date of their arraignment on October 18, 2010.

Jonathan replaces Petirin, service chiefs, Ihejirika remains COAS ROTIMI FADEYI ABUJA

P L-R: Guest Speaker, Mr. Kashim Ali; FCT Minister, Sen. Bala Mohammed and President, Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), Mr. Mustafa Shehu, at the 24th NSE October Lecture in Abuja, yesterday. PHOTO: NAN

Taraba Assembly removes deputy gov over misconduct

he Taraba State House of Assembly yesterday removed the state Deputy Governor, Alhaji Sani Abubakar, from office. Abubakar’s removal followed the adoption of the recommendation of the seven-man Judicial Commission of Inquiry set up by the state acting Chief Judge, Justice Josephine Tuktur. The commission, headed by Mr. Usman Dangiri, was set up to investigate allegations of gross misconduct against the deputy governor. Dangiri submitted the findings of the panel to the plenary sitting of the Assembly yesterday, saying that the deputy governor was found guilty of the three allegations against him. The Majority Leader, representing Karim I constitu-

ency, Mr. Charlse Maijankai, moved the motion for the adoption of the report. The report said Abubakar used his office to divert Millennium Development Goal, MDG, projects to Yagai Academy, a private school, which belonged to him. Similarly, the report said that the deputy governor was guilty of using his office to influence the posting of an officer and interfering in the affairs of his Karim-Lamido Local Government. It said the interference was to the extent that the communities were complaining of the negative attitude of the officer. On the third allegation of the inability of the deputy governor to convene a meeting of the state Boundary Commission, the panel described it as incompetence

on his part. Twenty of the 24 members of the Assembly voted in favour of the report. The Speaker, Mr. Istifanus Gbana, thereafter announced that “by virtue of Section 188 (9) of the 1999 Constitution, the deputy gov-

ernor stands removed.” Gbana directed the clerk of the House to communicate the decision to the governor, the deputy governor, the commissioner of police and the director, State Security Service, SSS, for further action.

resident Goodluck Jonathan yesterday appointed former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Ola Sa’ad Ibrahim, as the Chief of Defence Staff, CDS. Ibrahim replaced Air Marshal Oluseyi Petinrin, who has retired. The President also appointed Rear Admiral Dele Ezeoba from Delta State as the new Chief of Naval Staff, while Air Vice Marshal Alex Sabundu Badeh from Adamawa State is the new Chief of Air Staff to replace Air Marshal Mohammed Dikko Umar. Before their appoint-

ments, Ezeoba was the Chief of Administration at the Defence Headquarters, while Badeh was the Air Officer Commanding, AOC, Training Command, Kaduna. The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant-General Onyeabo Azubike Ihejirika, retained his position. Before the announcement through a statement issued by Presidential spokesman, Dr. Reuben Abati, Petirin, Ihejirika, Ibrahim and Umar were summoned to a meeting by Jonathan. At the meeting, the President thanked them for their meritorious and commendable service to the country and wished them well in their future endeavours.

Kerosene: Senate threatens to sanction NNPC, PPMC officials GEORGE OJI AND EMMANUEL ONANI ABUJA

he Senate yesterday threatened to direct the sack of whoever is in charge of kerosene distribution in the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, or the Petroleum Pricing and Marketing Company, PPMC, if the product does not consistently get to the end users. Senate President David

Mark issued the threat while commenting on a bill for an act to amend the Petroleum Act to ensure direct allocation of kerosene to peddlers from PPMC/ NNPC deport. Mark said that instead of the bill, the Senate should insist that the officials of PPMC/NNPC who failed in their duty to ensure that the products got to the desired end users should be relieved off their jobs. He said: “The solution to

that is that the man who is in charge currently, who is to ensure that kerosene gets to the man on the street and who is not doing it, is to sack him and let him go. Get somebody else and get all those that are involved to get along with him too. “We are all aware that kerosene does not get to where it should be. There are a lot of middle men who are just making millions out of it at the expense of the ordinary man. If you now

ask the man in the village to come to Abuja and get his allocation he is only going to end up spending and using his own money to bribe more people than he is trying to do at the moment. “So, that one will not solve the problem. This bill will not solve the problem. The intention and the reasoning behind the bill are very sound. It is good and in the interest of the common man but this is not a solution to the problem.”

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Tribunal declares Obanikoro winner of Ikoyi/Obalende LCDA WALE IGBINTADE

he Lagos State Local Government Election Petitions Tribunal sitting in Ikeja yesterday declared Mr. Ibrahim Babajide Obanikoro of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) winner of the Ikoyi/Obalende Local Council Development Area chairmanship election. The election was conducted on Saturday, October 22, 2011. Nullifying the election

of Mr. Adewale Adeniji of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), Justice Dolapo Akinsanya ordered the Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC) to revoke the Certificate of Return issued to him and give same to the PDP candidate. Delivering the judgement, the Chairman of the five-man tribunal, Justice Akinsanya, held that the petitioner (Obanikoro) ought to have been declared winner of the election by the Returning /Electoral Officer.

The tribunal further held that the PDP candidate polled the highest number of lawful votes cast at the election and ought to have been declared the winner. The tribunal held that available evidence before it revealed that Obanikoro scored 3,770 valid votes while Adeniji scored 3,248 votes. Subsequently, the tribunal ordered LASIEC to issue a Certificate of Return to the petitioner with immediate effect, having won the disputed election. It also awarded N100, 000 as cost in

favour of the petitioner. It held that the petitioner had proven to the tribunal that election results were not collated at the unit and ward levels as shown in the LASIEC Forms 9A which were admitted as exhibits. The tribunal further held that Section 11(2) of the Local Government Elections Petitions Tribunal Law 2011 empowered it to nullify any election that does not conform with the laid down regulations. The tribunal said: “The petitioners have been able to discharge the burden of

proof vested on them as regards to the collation of the results. It transferred the onus to the respondents who did not tender any LASIEC Form 9A which is the first stage of any election. “The petitioners have shown that the non-collation of the results at the units and ward levels substantially affected the outcome of the result declared by LASIEC’’. The PDP candidate, had through his counsel, Chief Bolaji Ayorinde (SAN), contested that the 1st respondent, the ACN and the 2nd

respondent, Mr. Adewale Adeniji, were not duly elected by the majority of lawful votes cast at the election. Other grounds in the petition includes that “the 108th respondent refused, failed and or neglected to declare the scores of the candidates in the election held for the office of Chairman of Ikoyi/Obalende Local Council Development Area in Lagos State, and which scores were now contained in the LASIEC Form 9A of which copies had been lawfully given to the Petitioners agents.

Alleged defamation: Fayemi sues NULGE, firm for N20bn

CNPP lauds Ajimobi over reinstatement of sacked workers

ABIODUN NEJO

KEMI OLAITAN

IBADAN

ADO EKITI

kiti State Governor Kayode Fayemi has sued the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) and a newspaper publishing firm over a news report. Fayemi’s action followed the expiration of a 14-day ultimatum issued to the two bodies to retract the “baseless and unfounded stories” carried in the August 25 and August 26, 2012 editions of the newspaper. A statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr Olayinka Oyebode, yesterday said Fayemi was demanding N10 billion damages from each of the two bodies over the damage that the falsehood had done to his reputation. It will be recalled that NULGE, in the publication, accused Fayemi of deducting N1 billion monthly from local government councils allocations. According to Oyebode, Fayemi, in the suit filed at an Ado-Ekiti High Court and marked HAD/84/2012, joined the newspaper publishing company as 1st defendant and the reporter who wrote the stories as 2nd defendant. Fayemi averred that the “falsehood published had exposed and subjected him to unwarranted public ridicule, embarrassment and unprecedented disrepute,” adding that his “credentials and track record as a gentleman and a man of unquestionable character and an advocate of good governance have been adversely affected by the publications”.

L-R: Ekiti State Governor, Dr Kayode Fayemi; state Chairman of Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), Chief Jide Awe; his deputy, Chief Dele Falusi; and Chairman of Oye Local Government Area, Mr. Adewale Adekoya, during the Town Hall meeting in Oye, yesterday.

Mark to Boroffice: Count me out of your problem GEORGE OJI AND EMMANUEL ONANI ABUJA

enate President David Mark has distanced himself from the alleged plot to recall Senator Robert Boroffice (Ondo North) from the Senate and described the allegation by the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) as unfounded and mischievous. Mark noted in a statement yesterday that Boroffice was the architect of whatever fate that befell him in the on-going imbroglio over whether he

(Boroffice) could retain his seat in the Senate after dumping the Labour Party (LP), on which platform he was elected, for the ACN or not. ACN National Publicity Secretary, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, had in a signed statement recently accused the Senate of using “arm-twisting” tactics to declare Boroffice’s seat vacant. But Mark recalled that Boroffice wrote to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) notifying the commission of his resignation from the LP and requested the

electoral body’s opinion on his decision to join the ACN, while alleging division in LP. INEC, in its response, said that “it has no record of any division in the Labour Party to justify your (Boroffice) resignation from the party”. The INEC response dated September13, 2012 and signed by the secretary of the commission, Abdullahi Kaugama, further stated that “Section 68(1)(g) of the 1999 Constitution as amended does not operate in your favour as there is no division in the Labour Party”

According to Mark, however, it is wicked and mischievous for the ACN to allege that the Senate leadership has a hand in Boroffice’s fate when it was the Senator that personally took himself to INEC. “Why did Distinguished Senator Boroffice write to INEC if he knew that the decision to vacate his seat or otherwise lies in the courts?” Mark asked. The Senate President noted that the import of INEC’s letter is that Boroffice remains a Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria elected on the platform of the Labour Party.

FG to train 30,000 Nigerians on cocoa production KEMI OLAITAN IBADAN

he Federal Government yesterday stated its determination to train 30,000 entrepreneurs to boost cocoa production, processing and marketing. The Minister of Agri-

culture and Rural Development, Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, spoke at the opening ceremony of the first International Cocoa Conference held at the Jogor Events Centre, Ibadan, the Oyo State capital. He said the move was part of the on-going transformation agenda in the

agriculture sub-sector. The minister, who was represented by the South-West Regional Director in the Ministry of Agriculture, Dr. Talabi Odeyemi, reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to revamp cocoa production, saying “Time has come for cocoa

revolution with a clear sense of urgency”. While explaining past efforts by the government to revamp the agric subsector, he pointed out the plan by the government to cultivate over 200,000 hectres of arable land across the country to enhance the production of cocoa.

he Oyo State chapter of the Conference of Nigerian Political Parties (CNPP) has praised Governor Abiola Ajimobi for reinstating some of the workers recently sacked by his administration. In a statement issued yesterday in Ibadan, the state capital, the CNPP Chairman, Alhaji Yinka Olona, described the governor as a listening leader who has the genuine interest of the workers at heart. The statement reads: “This action coming at this time can only point to the fact that the present government in Oyo State mean well for not only the workers, but the entire people. “We believe that it is necessary to commend Governor Abiola Ajimobi for having listening ears and would not do anything to inflict hardship on the electorate.” While calling on the reinstated workers to reciprocate the good gesture of the governor through hard work and dedication, CNPP blamed Nigeria’s leaders for the precarious situation of the country, 52 years after Independence. It said Nigeria is in great shamble because of the selfish attitude of the nation’s leaders. CNPP said: “It is quite unfortunate that we are where we are 52 years after Independence simply because our leaders, in their own wisdom, decided to serve their selfish interest. “The nation will only get better when our leaders decide to change their attitude.”

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Military incursion into governance cause of insecurity –Alao-Akala KEMI OLAITAN IBADAN

ormer governor of Oyo State, Otunba Adebayo Alao-Akala, has heaped the blame for the current security challenges bedevilling the country on the long years of military incursion into governance. Alao-Akala spoke yesterday while delivering the monthly public lecture organised by the Ibadan Zonal Station of the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria, FRCN, at its Oba Adebimpe Headquarters in Ibadan.

The former governor, who spoke on “Governance and national security challenges: The way out,” recalled that the myriad of problems confronting the country could not be divorced from the involvement of military in politics. He said: “When we recall that the first military coup ultimately led to the 30-month Biafran War and its subsequent effects on the security of the country, we would appreciate the import of what we are saying.” Alao-Akala, who acknowledged the various security challenges fac-

ing the country including acts of sabotage against the economy, ethnicity, communal conflicts and boundary disputes, proliferation of arms and ammunition, corruption, Niger Delta insurgence, militia groups and unemployment, among others, warned against the establishment of state police. The former governor, who retired as an assistant commissioner of police before he ventured into politics, said: “I wish to state with all sense of responsibility that we, as a nation, are not ripe for each state

Alao-Akala

to have its own police force. “We are all aware of the abuse of local government police in the First Republic. The government then used the local government police force as instrument of oppression, coercion, molestation, harassment

Mubi: A dangerous red alert signal –Agoro TEMITOPE OGUNBANKE

ormer presidential candidate of the National Action Council, NAC, Dr. Olapade Agoro, yesterday described the killing of 40 students in Mubi, Adamawa State by gunmen as a dangerous signal. He said in a statement that it was saddening that innocent Nigerians were killed when the country was celebrating her 52nd Independence Anniversary. Agoro, therefore, called on the Presidency and the security agents to protect lives and property of Nigerians. He said: “The dastardly horror unleashed by evil

gunmen on Federal Polytechnic, Mubi, Adamawa State leading to the death of 40 innocent students, in addition to 25 earlier killed in Maiduguri by Boko Haram at a time Nigeria was celebrating its 52nd Independence Anniversary, has clearly shown that the nation under President Goodluck Jonathan is on ‘Dangerous Red Alert Signal.’ “At this period, the issues of highly terrifying and unexplainable economic woes, the budget performing 50 per cent below expectation, insecurity and bloody deaths now free-wheeling, kidnappings the order of the day to quick wealth, power

generation standing still at 4000 megawatts where Olusegun Obasanjo’s administration left it in 2007 despite the injection of about $46bn whooping sum into that sector, endemic corruption, flood ravaging the states, which has so far claimed over 200 human lives and destroyed property worth billions of Naira, should be a great concern to the President. “Although Jonathan in his Independence Anniversary Day address to the nation claimed that ‘Nigeria is making progress’ and with a promise that ‘I won’t fail Nigerians,’ he must be pointedly told the fact that with indices of glaring

Don’t politicise amnesty programme, ex-militant leader warns govt HAKEEM GBADAMOSI AKURE

head the October 20 Governorship poll in Ondo State, a former militants’ leader in the coastal area of the state, Chief Bibopiri Ajube aka “Shoot at sight,” has warned against attempt to politicise the amnesty programme. Ajube gave the warning yesterday while speaking with journalists in Akure, the state capital. He was reacting to a statement credited to the Special Assistant to the President on Amnesty Programme, Hon. Kingsley Kuku. Kuku was quoted at a Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, campaign in Ese Odo Local Government Area, as saying that the name of any former militant who failed to vote for the candidate of the party would

be removed from the list of beneficiaries of the amnesty programme. But Ajube described the statement as unfortunate and capable of causing disaffection among the people living in the coastal areas of the state. He said the relatively peace being enjoyed by the people of the area should be maintained and should not be marred with political ambition or aspiration. Ajube warned that the freedom and right to vote and be voted for should not be tied to the amnesty programme. He said political differences of leaders in the state should not affect the peace being enjoyed in the area as the former militants were not ready to be used by politicians for their selfish interest. “We are peace-loving

people and there is peace in our land and we intend to maintain this peace for the development of our area. “We believe in one man, one vote. Everyone should be free to exercise his or her civic right without any hindrance or manipulation. The election must be free and fair and we are ready to cooperate with the security agents to make the election a peaceful one,” he said. Ajube described the peace being enjoyed in the area as non-negotiable and urged those in charge of the amnesty programme not to politicise the programme. He said: “I believe amnesty is not a political issue and should not be treated as one. Amnesty is a national issue and people’s right to vote must not be trampled upon.”

Republic, when the regions had their own police forces, was not palatable and therefore, if it is introduced, certainly, the powers that be at the state level may use it to oppress their opponents.”

and intimidation of the political opponents. “The police, amidst other vital responsibilities, have the power of arrest and prosecution. What we experienced in the First

failures surrounding the nation under his lacklustre leadership, he is already a failure. “A good leader is ‘seen acting his talking,’ evidentially promoting industry, progress, peace and human benefitting developments. All these are, however, a missing link in the scorecard of more than two years old presidency of Goodluck Jonathan, revealing the nation at 52 groping in darkness perfidy.”

Fayemi promises to expand social welfare scheme

Fayemi said he had received a barrage of complaints from the Action Congress of Nigeria, ACN, members that majority of the beneficiaries of the scheme were members of opposition Peoples Democratic Party, PDP. He said: “I owe it a duty to be fair to all Ekiti people, irrespective of political parties. But I have asked the officials in charge of the programme to continue to register more qualified people for more people to benefit.” The governor assured the residents of the area that his administration would tackle erosion problems in some towns in the local government, particularly in Oke-Ayedun Ekiti to prevent natural disaster which could endanger people’s lives.

ABIODUN NEJO ADO EKITI

kiti State Government said it was working on ways to widen the coverage of its social welfare scheme for the elderly to accommodate more aged people. To achieve this, Governor Kayode Fayemi said he would increase the budgetary allocation to the scheme in the 2013 proposed appropriation bill. The governor said yesterday at Oke-Ayedun Ekiti during the ongoing Town Hall meetings with people across the 16 councils in the state that N100m was being spent on the scheme to cater for the N5,000 monthly stipends to 20,000 elders aged 65 years and above.

Saturday Starter CBN and big-time loan defaulters The CBN directive will dislocate trust built over many years between the debtors and the banks...it is an undeveloped approach to managing our economy and is a bad omen for the economy of this nation -Larry Segun-Lean, President of NigeriaMalaysia Business Council and Chairman, Industrial Group of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) They (banks) will have to comply. If they don’t comply, the regulators will pick it up and will just debit them with the amount. The move will not affect the economy in any way -Bismarck Rewane, CEO, Financial Derivatives Company Limited I think some of the issues that the CBN is trying to tackle through directives may be better tackled if we had a more robust insolvency regime and also a more robust security system so that banks can recover their loans without need for the kind of government intervention you found through AMCON or the excessive intervention of the CBN -Tony Idigbe, Commercial lawyer

Politics Bakassi: Going, going... • It is within legitimate rights that the Nigerian corporation should appeal the judgement –Prof. Wole Soyinka

• We will not like the remote chance of

a miracle to stand in the way of the urgent task of relocating and properly resettling our displaced people –Senator Florence Ita-Giwa, Political Leader of Bakassi People’s General Assembly

• Presidency

should quickly take the opportunity of the remaining period and appeal the judgement because we have a good ground for appeal –Chief Mike Ozekhome, Constitutional lawyer

Celebrity It takes more than talent to be a star

-Zdon Paporrella

x SeTalk Nine tips for Cloud Nine jiggle

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Achebe to receive chieftaincy title in Igboland NWABUEZE OKONKWO ONITSHA

renowned author, Prof. Chinua Achebe, is to be bestowed with the chieftaincy title of Otigbuluagu Gburugburu of Igboland, by the traditional ruler of Nri Kingdom, Eze Obidiegwu Onyesoh. The coronation ceremony, which is expected to take place simultaneously in Nigeria and London, the United Kingdom in colourful ceremonies within the year, is being organised by the Umuigbonekwu Foundation.

According to a letter written to Achebe by Eze Onyesoh, the event will be preceded by the Ofala Annual Cultural Festival of the literary legend during the Ogidiga Igbo mega concert that will be holding in the United Kingdom. In a statement from the United Kingdom on the programme Premier Coordinator of Umuigbonekwu Foundation/Culture Worldwide, Ambassador Ifeanyi Okongwu, said Achebe has accepted the offer, just as he agreed to celebrate the Ofala festival for his coronation in the United Kingdom during the Ogidiga Igbo mega

concert that will be attended by Igbo sons and daughters from all walks of life. He said part of the ceremony, like the beauty pageant, will hold in Enugu and Imo States respectively, adding that present and past governors, members of the National Assembly, ministerial appointees, media houses and eminent Igbo sons and daughters will be recognised for their excellent achievements. Okongwu said other eminent Igbo sons and daughters that will be honoured and recognised during the London event

are those who have distinguished themselves professionally in the countries of their residence; President-General of Ohaneze Ndigbo and his United Kingdom counterpart, while the late Owelle of Onitsha, Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, will be given posthumous award. His words: “The coronation of Prof. Achebe will take place at the palace of Eze Onyesoh in Agukwu Nri, while the Eze Nri will travel with members of his cabinet and the members of the Umuigbonekwu Foundation in Nigeria to the United Kingdon for the

award of chieftaincy titles to deserving Igbo sons and daughters, who have distinguished themselves in the their various fields of endeavours. Also commenting on the event, Head of the Women Affairs of Umuigbonekwu Foundation, Ambassador Obiamaka Okoloji, said the people and groups, who will be traveling to the United Kingdom for the event with the traditional ruler of Nri are Obiajulu Osadebe, son of late Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe; Morocco Nwamaduka, Chukwudi Okafor of Sweet Brothers Band, Egwu

Uvie/Egbendu Oba Traditional Dancers, Umuada Igbo Chapulachapu, Egwu Karaka Dancers and the most beautiful Igbo girl and most handsome boy that will emerge from the beauty pageant. He said the grand finale will hold at the Imo Concord Hotel, Owerri, before the ceremony in the United Kingdom. Ambassador Okoloji also said that the Ogidiga Igbo mega concert will also be used to launch a great Igbo iconic book on revitalisation of Igbo language and culture, which seems to be going into extinction.

Wealthy individuals, organisations urged to assist flood victims NWABUEZE OKONKWO ONITSHA

he Catholic Archbishop of Onitsha Ecclesiastical Province, His Grace, Most Rev. Dr. Valerian Okeke, has charged wealthy individuals and organisations to assist victims of the current flood disaster who were displaced in various parts of the country. Okeke made the appeal yesterday after he donated 600 mats, water and cooked food items to over 1, 500 displaced people from Anambra West Local Government Area of the state currently camped at the Bishop Crowther Memorial Primary School, Onitsha. “We are all brothers

and sisters. We therefore should help each other whenever there is need. That is why I am here, the Archbishop stated, adding; “Am pleading that all hands should be on deck. That other people would come and join hands to make sure that these people are comfortable and that they are consoled,” he said. The Archbishop said that the archdiocese would provide 24-hour medical services, sanitary materials, more mats and blankets as well as give the other camp within Onitsha 1, 000 mats to sustain them, adding; “The feeding in this camp would surely be a routine one as far as the capability of the church could carry.”

Orji flags off tax payers’ identification number project GEORGE OPARA ABIA

bia State government has flagged off the tax payers’ identification number project aimed at transforming the Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) profile of the state. At the ceremony at the Executive Council Chambers, Government House in Umuahia, capital of the state, Governor Theodore Orji, charged the Board of Internal Revenue (BIR) to invigorate the internally generated revenue profile of the state. He said that the BIR was at the forefront of the battle to raise money for the state, noting that the allocation to

Orji

the state from the federation is not enough to pay salaries and engage in capital projects. The governor said the only salvation for the state was to look inwards, arguing that the resources are in the state but needed to be tapped. According to him, the programme would be seen to be a success only when the revenue profile of the state has increased.

Anambra State Governor, Peter Obi (right), receiving the Legend of True Leadership Award from the National President of the National Association of Nigerian Student Nurses and Midwives, Comrade Dauda Ahmed, at Our Lady of Lourdes School of Nursing and Midwifery, Ihiala, yesterday

Car washer drowns in River Niger CHARLES OKEKE AND NWABUEZE OKONKWO

middle-aged man, simply identified as John, yesterday drowned in the River Niger while washing a car at the creek, along Niger Street, near the Onitsha Main Market. The incident, according to the source, occurred when John slipped and fell into the River Niger as he mistakenly stepped on slippery ground at the bank of the river. Eye-witnesses said that all efforts made by traders and his colleagues to rescue him proved abortive as he finally drowned within some minutes of his falling into the river. Meanwhile, the All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA), Anambra State

chapter and the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), yesterday donated relief materials to victims of flood disasters in the affected local government areas in the state. The relief materials, which include hundreds of bags of rice, toilet papers, oil, tablets and bars of soap, detergents, buckets, blankets, palm oil and other essential commodities, were distributed to the designated refugee camps at the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) office in Awka, under the supervision of SEMA Chairman, Dr Justin Ijezie and Dr Jerry Sunny Ugokwe, former Nigeria ambassador to Austria and member of House of Representatives. The value of materi-

als donated by APGA through its state Chairman, Mike Kwentoh, is about N2.5 million. The Federal Government, acting through NEMA, donated 876 bags of rice, 300 bags of garri, 300 gallons of palm oil, 50 bags of granulated sugar, 100 blankets, 405 mattreses,1, 500 plastic plates and many other key items, whose monetary value was not disclosed. Speaking on the import of the donation, Chief Kwentoh said their gesture was derived from the fact that they want to be part of the people helping to ameliorate the victims’ problems. In his words: “We are here to play our role and present what we have been able to gather in order to assist those affected. We have brought

everything we believe people in that situation requires, these are consumables and every Nigerian who is touched with what is happening should feel free to come and assist.” He said what they have done is to complement the efforts of Governor Peter Obi in ameliorating the pains of the victims. Similarly, Dr Ugokwe told journalists that his participation in the distribution of relief materials to the victims was meant to ensure that NEMA assists the people as it has promised when he had a meeting with key officials of the agency on the crisis. He said he was in Awka to ensure that the essential goods being donated through NEMA are channeled to the needy ones.

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NDLEA arrests 33 illicit drug dealers TONY ANICHEBE UYO

t least 33 persons dealing in narcotics have been arrested by the operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Akwa Ibom State. The state Commander of the NDLEA, Mrs. Ruth Obi, who made this known while speaking with National Mirror at the Command’s Headquarters, along Nwaniba Road, Uyo, yesterday said the suspects, comprising 29 males and four females, were arrested last month following the continuous raiding

of joints in all the nooks and crannies of the state. Obi said the exhibits weighing 16.436 kilogramme were seized during the period, which she broke down as follows: Cannabis sativa16.428 kilogrammes; Cocaine 2.6grammes; Heroine 5.9 grammes and Combine (mixture of alcohol and cannabis) 9 litres, 30cl. She said investigation into their matter has been completed and that the suspects would be taken to court immediately the court resumed sitting for prosecution. She attributed the breakthrough by the command in

making arrests of the drug dealers and the dismantling of their operating joints to the determination and commitment of officers of the command to ensure that Akwa Ibom citizens are prevented from being lured into illicit drug abuse. Obi pointed out that the agency was still looking forward to tracking down those dealers still at large and who have been on their wanted list, soliciting for information from members of the

public to enable NDLEA get them arrested. She said the war against illicit drug trafficking and abuse should be of concern to every citizen while expressing disappointment that even though most people understand the destructive and negative effect of such drug use, not only on the users, they still also on the society but prefer to assist the dealers by protecting them from being arrested. The NDLEA boss said

people should not keep quiet or feel unconcerned about tackling the heinous crime, considering that the consequences are grave and therefore in the interest of everybody to have the drug barons arrested. She, however, decried the rise in the use of indigent and the physically-challenged people by drug barons in the peddling of illegal drugs and expanding their outlet. She also raised the alarm over the use of minors in selling hard drugs and called on the people to be vigilant and contact the

agency when they see a minor being used in that kind of unlawful business in any area. Obi pointed out that though it was morally wrong for anyone to take to drug trafficking due to poverty or joblessness, which the suspects always give as excuse for joining the business, she said the society, especially public-spirited individuals and philanthropists should create avenues for assisting indigent ones around them, especially the physically-challenged in ways that would take their mind off such illegal trade.

Delta suspends award of new road contracts

elta State government has suspended the award of new road contracts pending when all existing contracts have been completed. Announcing this while addressing contractors handling road and drainage projects in the state, the state governor, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan, said that the suspension of new contracts would enable his government concentrate on and complete all ongoing road and drainage projects. He enjoined the contractors to mobilise to site once the rains are over and complete their contracts before the end of December. The governor urged them to work day and night and complete their projects so that Deltans would enjoy good roads. He said he would not entertain any further delay, especially as he has promised to adequately fund the projects. “You should therefore

mobilise to site once the rains are over and complete your jobs. There should be no excuse,” he said. The governor also cautioned the contractors against the submission of letters for variation, stressing that it was the antics of contractors to increase the value of their contracts. Uduaghan warned against such antics, explaining that any variation made on a contract which was not more than one year would not be entertained. The governor, who admonished those who often abandon their projects only to reappear with variation to either accept contracts as awarded or reject it at the initial stage. He said the issue of variation often disorganises budgets. “Variation is unfair because budgets are planned and acceptance of variation on new projects will not do the state any good. So contractors should either accept contract as it is or reject them from the

Rivers State Governor, Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, during an inspection tour of some government schools in Port Harcourt, yesterday.

onset.” In his remark, the Commissioner for Works, Chief Funkekeme Solomon, said his ministry has been reorganised to ensure efficient service delivery. Solomon said some of the lapses observed in the past had been corrected to ensure that certificates submitted by contractors for payment are promptly processed. He, however, enjoined contractors to work to specification and complete their jobs on schedule.

Bayelsa monarch berates SPDC over MoU delay EMMA GBEMUDU YENAGOA

hairman of Bayelsa State Traditional Rulers Council, King Godwill Igodo, yesterday berated the Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) over its alleged refusal to sign the 2011/2012 General Memorandum of Understanding (GMoU) between Epie-AtissaKolo cluster communities and the oil firm. Epie-Atissa and Kolo com-

Akpabio sues for dialogue between NLC, govt for development

kwa Ibom State Governor, Godswill Akpabio, yesterday called for continued dialogue between the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and government on labour matters that could result in strike to ensure the development of the country. Governor Akpabio made the call on Wednesday, when the Chairman of the House of Representatives’ Committee on Labour and Productivity, Hon Essien E. Ayi, accompanied by other members of the House and

leaders of the NLC, paid him a courtesy visit at the Governor’s Lodge, Uyo. Akpabio said when there is harmonious relationship between labour and government, it means government policies and programmes would work. He noted that without a peaceful and harmonious atmosphere, there won’t be meaningful development since labour means a lot to the people. “When labour have mischief makers and members of opposition in their

midst, they would not allow development to happen. “I thank you, the labour leaders, for not allowing external and political influence to permeate your rank,” he stated. The Governor pointed out that; “In spite of our strength, do not work to the detriment of government. We must support the government of President Goodluck Jonathan. We must respect the Presidency which is the instrument of government.” Akpabio attributed 50

per cent of the success recorded by his administration his to harmonious relationship between the labour union and the state government; saying that without such, government would be in perpetual conflict and perpetually in conflict with itself. The governor said the retreat was in the interest of good governance because, according to him, at the end of the day the essence was to produce good governance for the people.

munities are located in Yenagoa and Ogbia Local Government Area of the state. The traditional ruler said the refusal by SPDC to sign the agreement with the cluster communities had delayed its operations in the area, arguing that the oil giant had signed same GMoU with other sister cluster communities in the state. Igodo spoke yesterday in Yenagoa, at the Shell in Nigeria Sustainable Development and Community Relations’ road show and exhibition programme. He urged the multinational oil company to expedite action in signing the GMoU with the communities. Over the years in Bayelsa State, signing and implementation of GMoU agreement by oil firms has been a herculean task resulting in frosty relations between the host communities and the multinationals. Igodo’s words: “We expected SPDC to accept our demands, the GMoU of 2011/2012 have not been signed by Shell for the clusters. “SPDC is doing business in our land. They should accept our demands and create a cordial relationship with

the clusters. The earlier the GMoU is signed by Shell, the better for them to do business in the communities.” While describing the annual road show and exhibition programme organised by SPDC as strategic, Igodo urged the firm to extend its corporate social responsibility to its host communities by creating jobs for the teeming youths. Earlier, Governor Seriake Dickson enjoined oil firms in the Niger Delta to protect the environment where they operate, stressing that SPDC should replicate same standard in which they operate in Europe by providing social amenities to the host communities. The governor was represented by the state Commissioner for Energy, Francis Ekio, at the event. The Governor’s words: “You must do everything possible to protect our environment. As a government we will provide the needed security of lives and property for the investment to thrive in the state. The cluster communities should also exhibit transparency and sincerity in partnering with the SPDC.”

North

Friday, October 5, 2012

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Flood: Niger spends N150m on 42,000 households PRISCILLA DENNIS MINNA

iger State Government said it had so far spent N150m to feed people in over 42,000 households displaced by flood ravaging parts of the state, just as about 50 lives were lost to the disaster. Governor Muazu Ba-

bangida Aliyu disclosed this during a courtesy visit by the Minister of Agriculture, Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, who was on an assessment tour of villages affected by flood in the state. The governor said several communities were destroyed by the flood in the state and would depend on government’s assistance

for the next 15 months. He also urged the Federal Government to urgently come to the aid of the state to reduce the hardship faced by the people, adding that some of the affected communities had indicated their readiness to be resettled away from disaster region. Aliyu also said that to

increase the production of rice, 60 youths from the state would be sent to Kenya to learn rice farming technology. Speaking earlier, Adesina pledged to collaborate with the state government in making available high yield rice and maize seedlings to farmers in the state that could produce 10 tons per

hectare. The minister explained that the high yield seeds were being distributed to farmers free of charge. He also urged the state government to key into the Federal Government programme on improved agricultural practices for the benefit of the people of Niger State.

10 injured in Zaria hotel blast A ZA M SUE KADUNA

t least 10 people, among them suspected prostitutes and hotel staff, were injured in a Zaria hotel explosion. A witness said the blast occurred on Wednesday night at Cosmopolitan Hotel on Uche Road, Sabo Garin area in Zaria, Kaduna State, when a suspected terrorist dropped a polythene bag containing explosives in the hotel. It was gathered that the bomber strolled into the hotel, dropped a polythene bag and left the vicinity immediately. Reports said some of the visitors, who sighted the bomber, raised the alarm and chased the suspect but were unable to apprehend him. A few minutes later, the bag exploded and injured those around. Yesterday morning, security operatives were drafted to the hotel and cordoned off the area, while manhunt for the bomber was intensified. The state Police Public Relations Officer, Mallam Aminu Lawan, confirmed the incident but said only four people were injured in what he described as a minor blast. He said: “Our men were able to get to the scene of the incident immediately we were told and condoned off the area. “We were able to recover some particles of the materials used for the Improvised Explosive Devise, IED. Only workers of the hotel were affected.”

L-R: Permanent Secretary, Plateau State Ministry of Information, Vonjen Lar; representative of the Manager, Nigerian Television Authority, Jos, Moses Ojewumi and the state Commissioner for Information and Communications, Pastor Yiljap Abraham, at the sendoff ceremony in honour of the Permanent Secretary in Jos, yesterday.

Gaidam approves employment of 3,000 graduates, others INUSA NDAHI DAMATURU

overnor Ibrahim Gaidam of Yobe State has approved the employment of 3,000 degree, HND and NCE graduates as well as other professionals to be employed into the state civil service. The Commissioner for Information, Alhaji Goni Fika, disclosed this yesterday after the State Executive Council meeting held at the Government House, Damaturu.

Briefing journalists after the meeting, Fika said the government had also ratified the purchase of essential commodities to be distributed to Ministries, Departments and Agencies, MDAs and other individuals as “Ramadan relief to civil servants”. According to him, the government usually extends such gestures during Ramadan. The items, according to Fika, include rice, sugar, vegetable oil, etc, amounting to N96,525,000.

He pointed out that the council also ratified the approval of the payment of cash backing to the Amirul Hajj Committee for 2012 Hajj activities amounting to N102,289,600 to cover allowances and estacode for the team and also to cover the expenses of the Pilgrims’ Commission. This is in addition to the approval earlier granted for the purchase of 40 units of Messey Farguson 375 tractors and implements to reinvigorate agricultural activities in the state.

The commissioner also disclosed that the Yobe State Agricultural Mechanisation Authority, YOSAMA, currently had only 32 unserviceable tractors which were procured in 2000 but needed to be replaced in order to serve the farmers well. Fika also disclosed that the council was briefed on the efforts made by the government to absorb 6,672 candidates listed for employment while 8,871 others were being screened to be re-considered for absorption into the local government.

Fertiliser scam: Ex-Borno LG chairmen may lose appointments INUSA NDAHI MAIDUGURI

overnor Kashim Shettima of Borno State has threatened to nail the political coffins of some immediate past local government chairmen over alleged diversion of fertilisers meant to be sold to farmers in the state. The governor told the former chairmen to kiss their reappointment bid goodbye if they failed to pay the state government money for the fertilisers within a stipulated time. But from all indications, many of the former chair-

men may not be able to refund the money embezzled from the diversion as they are no longer in office. It was gathered that Shettima told the Commissioner for Agriculture, Alhaji Usman Zanna, to supervise the immediate recouping of the missing fertiliser funds. Some hundreds of trucks meant for the Lake Chad Basin Development Authority in New Marte were diverted but the probe ordered by Shettima has not produced anything till date. Sources at the Ministry of Agriculture said most

of the former caretaker council chairmen could not account for over 50 per cent of the trucks of fertilisers given to them for subsidised sales to the farmers. “Many of the chairmen, except for a few, were unable to account for the thousands of fertilisers allocated to them by the government. “Some were only able to pay N2m out of the about N10m they are expected to remit to the state coffers,” said a source in the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs. It was learnt that some

of the local government chairmen had been tipped for automatic appointment by the governor, but their fate now hangs in the balance as they have soiled their hands in the fertiliser diversion racket.

With settler syndrome, Nigeria won’t develop –Aliyu PRISCILLA DENNIS MINNA

he Niger State Governor, Muazu Babangida Aliyu, has called for the removal of the indigenes and nonindigenes provision from the constitution to enhance national cohesion and peaceful co-existence among the people. Aliyu made the call when the President General of the Yoruba Community in the Northern States and the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Alhaji Jamiu Oguntoyinbo, visited him in Minna. The governor said the indigene and non-indigene policy had failed to achieve its purpose, adding rather than fostering unity, it had added problems to the country. He said: “Everybody should be free to live and work in any part of the country notwithstanding from what part of the country that person comes without any discrimination. It is only those that have criminal tendencies or work against the peace and progress of the communities that should be discriminated against. “Nigeria is meant for Nigerians, it is unfortunate that some foreigners are given recognition more than the original Nigerians just because of the language they speak and the religion they believe in. We must, therefore, forget the settler syndrome if Nigeria is to move forward.” Speaking on the petition sent to the state House of Assembly by the Concerned Citizens of Niger State, the governor noted that those behind the petition were against him for his insistence on doing things the right way for the progress of the state. He said: “I will continue to do things differently no matter the plot by those that want me to do otherwise.”

Friday, October 5, 2012

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Politics

Plateau by-election: PDP, ACN, DPP, others battle for Dantong’s seat

COUNTDOWN TO

ONDO GUBER POLL October 20, 2012

DAYS TO GO

HAKEEM GBADAMOSI AKURE.

he Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) has called on the Inspector General of Police, Alhaji Mohammed Abubakar, to urgently redeploy the Ondo State Commissioner of Police to forestall a looming chaos in the state. According to a statement issued in Lagos yesterday by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, the call was made by the ACN Chairman, Chief Bisi Akande, and the party’s governorship candidate for the state, Mr. Rotimi Akeredolu, at a rally held in Ore. According to them, the Police Commissioner has shown his bias in favour of the Labour Party in the state, instead of being neutral as demanded by the sensitivity of his high office. They said unless the highly partisan police boss is removed urgently, the clamour for a free, fair and credible governorship election in Ondo State on October 20 will be a mirage. Justifying the call, they said the Commissioner of Police has failed to respond

ACN demands redeployment of CP decisively and fairly to attacks on ACN supporters in the past two days, during the party’s campaign rallies in Ikare and Ondo. “It has become a recurring experience in the past two days for suspected Labour Party thugs to unleash terror on ACN supporters at the end of their campaign rallies. “After the rally in Ondo on Wednesday in particular, some chieftains of ACN, including notable artists like Ojo Arowosafe a.k.a Fadeyi Oloro, and a popular Ewi exponent, Femi Elaloro, were among scores of ACN supporters who were attacked by suspected LP hoodlums, inflicting on them varying degrees of injuries and damaging vehicles belonging to ACN supporters. “The State Commissioner of Police, who was promptly contacted about Wednesday’s incident by the ACN candidate, merely dismissed his (Akeredolu) report, claiming instead that the ACN instigated the violence. Such action by the Police Commissioner is not conducive to the conduct of free and fair election, hence he must be redeployed without delay,’’ the party said. Meanwhile, Osun State governor, Rauf Aregbesola, yesterday described Governor Olusegun Mimiko of Ondo State as a traitor who abandoned those who helped him when he was in the trenches.

Aregbesola, who stated this at Ore during the continuation of the state-wide rally of the ACN, solicited for the support of the people of the state to flush out the Mimiko-led government with their votes in the October 20 election. He revealed that the leadership of the ACN did all it could to woo Mimiko into the party’s fold but

said he (Mimiko) chose to be an orphan among the South-West states. He said: “Ondo should join the mainstream politics of the South-West, October 20 should be for the Yoruba race, whoever believes in the progress of the race should support ACN and put the opposition to shame.” The Osun State gover-

AKURE

he Accord Party (AP) governorship candidate in Ondo State, who was excluded by the electoral umpire, Mr. Olawale Ojo, has accused his party of collecting money from Governor Olusegun Mimiko to adopt him for the October 20 poll. The party’s candidate vowed to continue his case

in court, saying the purported adoption of the Labour Party’s candidate had no effect on the merit of the matter. Olawale, who berated the party’s chairman for feigning ignorance of the court case, claimed that all the documents used to file the suit were signed by him (the chairman). Speaking with National Mirror, he said: “Don’t mind the man who calls

dent we will win,” Aregbesola said. Other leaders of the party who spoke at the rally, showered praises on the national leader of the ACN, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, describing him as one who is interested in the development of the Yoruba race and not in personal gains as being alleged by Mimiko’s supporters.

ACN supporters at a rally for the governorship election at Ore, Ondo State, yesterday

Mimiko govt owes N110bn debts, says Oke HAKEEM GBADAMOSI AKURE.

he Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in the October 20 election in Ondo State, Chief Olusola Oke has alleged that the

ruling Labour Party (LP) administration under Dr. Olusegun Mimiko owes about N110 billion debts to various contractors. Oke, who revealed this during an interactive session with journalists in Akure, the state capital,

AP candidate accuses party of collecting money from gov OJO OYEWAMIDE

nor recalled that the Nigerian civil war was won by the federal troops in 1970 at Ore and urged the people of the town to replicate the victory with the demolition of Mimiko’s government. “Go out and vote for the ACN, protect your votes and don’t let them take your votes away. Do not fight them, don’t give room for rigging and am confi-

himself the state chairman of the party. He has collected money from Mimiko. After my exclusion from the election by the INEC and we went to court, the chairman said we should approach Mimiko and deceive him into giving us money. But I said no. I told him that we should not play with our integrity and the future of this state. “I will still pursue the case in court. It is a lie that

the chairman and members of the state executive committee of the party were not aware of the suit. Ask him, who signed all the papers that we used to file the case. Was it not the chairman?” But, the state chairman of the party, Dr. Jibola Falaiye, described the court case as a futile exercise, even though he admitted that Olawale’s emergence as the party’s flag bearer followed due process.

yesterday described the high debt profile as alarming. He said there was no need for the Mimiko government to accrue so much debt for the state as there is nothing to show for it. He therefore promised a more purposeful and reasonable administration if elected. Oke also promised to judiciously manage the resources of the state without “going cap in hand and borrowing at the expense of the state.” The PDP candidate alleged that the debts recorded by the present administration were accumulated from various contracts that were overbloated, especially for non- indigene contractors which led to huge loss of money from the government purse, while indig-

enous contractors were not patronised. He further pointed out that the people of the state are unhappy due to the poverty and frustration that have been inflicted on them by the Mimiko administration. He said: “Nobody should be in doubt about the magnitude of punishment the current tenant of the Government House will receive from the electorate come October 20. The words of the people are clear and the evidences of their determination are stark poverty, gloom, frustration and inertia inflicted on them in the last three and half years. “The Mimiko administration has illegally converted over N100 billion belonging to the local govCONTINUED ON PAGE 15

Politics

Friday, October 5, 2012

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Plateau by-election: PDP, ACN, DPP, JAMES ABRAHAM writes on the battle for the senatorial seat of Gyang Datong, who was killed in the heat of the Plateau crisis. The by-election holds tomorrow.

omorrow, the People of Plateau North Senatorial District, which comprises of six local government areas of Jos North, Jos South, Bassa, Jos East, Barki Ladi and Riyom will go to the poll to elect their senator, who would complete the term of late Senator Gyang Datong, murdered during an attack by gunmen at a mass burial of terrorist victims of members of his constituency. But the question presently on the lips of the people of the zone with over one million registered voters is: who will succeed the late Dantong? No doubt, tomorrow’s by-election is dicey given the array and calibre of the candidates battling to fill the slot, many of who have consistently raised the expectation of the people with campaign promises, in the past few weeks after getting the nods to fly their parties’ tickets Already, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has indicated its readiness for the election. According to the electoral body, six political parties are contesting the senatorial seat. They include the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Democratic Peoples Party (DPP), All Nigerian Peoples Party (ANPP), Action Congress of Nigeria (AC N), All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA) and Labour Party (LP). At a recent meeting with stakeholders in Jos, the Plateau State capital, INEC’s Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Mr. Habu Zarma said there was no going back on the October 6 date which the commission earlier said was tentative. According to him, the election will be conducted in the six local governments of the zone which have 73 registration areas and 1,212 polling units. Zarma added that all sensitive materials have been delivered and are being sorted out for distribution. He assured the people of the state that INEC will do its best to ensure that all election materials are delivered in good time and in the right quantity to ensure free, fair and peaceful election. A top official from the commission informed National Mirror that a total of 1,055,903 registered voters are expected to vote during the election. The breakdown of the voters showed that Jos North has the highest number of registered voters with 427,856, while Jos East has the least with 52,492 registered voters. Similarly, Riyom has 67,294; Jos South, 287,019; Barki Ladi, 102,555; and Bassa has 118,686 voters. On their part, the candidates, have been traversing every part of the senatorial zone in their bid to win the people’s support. From the look of things, all is now set for the major gladiators to slug it out and given the prevailing circumstances prior and after the emergence of the candidates,

Pwajok

Pam

Adeh

there is no doubt that it will be a keenly contested battle. This is more so as the opposition parties in the state appear to have failed in their bid to present a consensus candidate to wrestle power from the ruling PDP as they earlier promised . The state chairman of the Conference of Nigerian Political Parties (CNPP), Alhaji Yusuf Kanam has come out to say that the APGA candidate, Chris Giwa, is the opposition’s consensus candidate, but judging from the body language of other candidates, it is obvious that they are not in agreement with the CNPP’s position. For instance, a former military administrator of Delta State, Col. John Dungs, who is contesting under the platform of the DPP has described the purported endorsement of the APGA candidate by the CNPP as “ridiculous and balderdash.” Speaking with National Mirror in Jos, Dungs dissociated himself from any plans to step down for any candidate and urged the people not to be deceived or distracted by what he called “fraudulent activities of the CNPP in the election,” maintaining that he remains the candidate to beat. This implies that all the candidates are going into the poll to test their popularity and many analysts believe that this stance by the opposition candidates would only end up strengthening the camp of the PDP. In fact, going by the utterances of the major gladiators and stakeholders in the race, there are indications that it is one election that might leave Plateau devastated, if adequate security measures are not put in place by the government to forestall any eventuality. Security sources informed National Mirror in Jos, that perhaps, it is in recognition of this fact that the state Commissioner of Police, Mr. Emmanuel Ayeni, who was on leave had to be recalled to the state to ensure that the exercise does not undermine his peace efforts in the past months. During a stakeholders’ meeting in Jos on Wednesday, the police boss warned that his men would not tolerate any act that could lead to a breach of the peace in the state during the election. As part of measures to ensure a hitchfree poll, the state police command has

Dungs

GIVEN THE PREVAILING CIRCUMSTANCES PRIOR AND AFTER THE EMERGENCE OF THE CANDIDATES... THE

OPPOSITION PARTIES IN THE STATE APPEAR TO HAVE FAILED IN THEIR BID TO PRESENT A CONSENSUS CANDIDATE TO WRESTLE POWER FROM THE RULING

PDP

equally announced a ban on movement of people from midnight on the eve of the election till Saturday midnight, warning that anybody seen carrying offensive weapons such as knives, machetes, rifles, arrows, swords would be promptly arrested and prosecuted. He also warned underage voters to stay away from voting centres, as anyone caught would have himself to blame. Ayeni said that peace in the state should be considered paramount by all stakeholders during the conduct of the poll and as such, all hands should be on deck to ensure that the long cherished peace in the state is sustained during and after the election. Even with a level playing ground being created in the run up to the poll, it is observed that Gyang Pwajok of the PDP remains a major contender in the election while his major challengers are Dungs (DPP); Giwa (APGA); Yusufu Pam (ACN), Dr. Danladi Atu (ANPP) and Hon. Lumumba Dah Adeh (LP).

Gyang Pwajok (PDP) The former Chief of Staff to Governor Jonah Jang is from Jos North Local Government Area, one of the two local governments in the zone that is yet to produce a senator.

Apart from being the youngest of all the contestants, he was the first to declare his intention. The former university teacher enjoys the support of Governor Jang and other PDP bigwigs. This came to the fore during the party’s primary, when he overwhelmingly defeated the former Deputy Senate President, John Wash Pam to emerge the party’s flag bearer. The governor had also during one of the campaign outings in Barki Ladi Local Government Area, ordered the chairmen of the six local governments and other political appointees in the zone to deliver the PDP candidate during the poll or be sacked. Added to this was Pwajok’s intelligence and knowledge on issues affecting the state, which have also endeared him to the people. But those who feel that he is from the same Du District as the governor and want power to shift to other districts have teamed up with the opposition to truncate his ambition. Besides, some PDP members, especially from Riyom, where the late Dantong comes from, who are still feeling short-changed for not being allowed by the party to choose Dantong’s successor may vote against his candidature. Some have also accused him of not being accessible during his days in government .The fact that he is not the only candidate from his Berom ethnic group, who are dominant in four out of the six local government areas that make up the zone, means that he will share the votes with his other kinsmen.

Chris Giwa (APGA) A philanthropist from Jos South and former chairman of the Plateau State Football Association, Giwa, is banking on the sympathy of the people to win the election, having contested the governorship election in 2011, but lost to the incumbent. Though his party is relatively unknown in the state before now, his popularity among the people may work to his advantage. He is also counting on the Igbo, who may vote for him because of the reverence they have for the late leader of the party, Dim Chukwuemeka Ojukwu. Besides, his endorsement by the opposition CNPP may boost his chances. But Giwa’s lack of a robust and aggres-

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Politics

Friday, October 5, 2012

others battle for Dantong’s seat trays him as one who is ready to fight to finish. As a lawyer and activist, he has also left no one in doubt of his persuasive ability, which he has demonstrated throughout his campaign, but whether this will translate to electoral victory remains to be seen. Also, those championing for power shift from his Du district may not vote for him.

John Dungs (DPP)

Jang

Dantong

sive campaign to sell his vision to the people, unlike what obtained during the 2011 governorship election may rob him of his ambition. Many have also pointed out that he might find it very difficult to make any headway, since many of his supporters in the ACN, his former party, have refused to join him in his new party. He is also considered inexperienced in some quarters, since he has never held any political position.

in the Plateau North senatorial election. He hails from Du district in Jos South Local Government Area. As a former Commissioner for Justice during the Joshua Dariye administration, a position he also occupied in 2004 during the emergency rule in the state, his rich political experience is not in doubt. Many believe he will bring his experience to bear if elected. During the selection process, the way and manner he outstaged the former governorship aspirant, Giwa, to emerge the party’s flag bearer also por-

Yusufu Pam (ACN) Barrister Yusuf Pam is a man to watch

The retired army officer and former Military Administrator of Delta State is another candidate to beat. From all indications, the former PDP chieftain is not leaving anything to chance in his determination to clinch the post. Dungs, who hails from Riyom Local Government Area, had earlier contested the seat under the same party in 2011 but lost to the late Senator Datong. Coming from the same local government with the late Datong, those who believe that his successor should come from the same area as a compensation to the people will vote for him. He is also said to be a philanthropist and in touch with the grassroots. But having contested the seat and lost, some people have accused him of being desperate for power, a development which may threaten his ambition. Some also believe that as one who has seen it all when he was a military administrator, he should give others the chance to contribute their quota to the development of the state

Lumumba Dah Adeh (LP) The former member of the Federal

House of Representatives hails from Bassa LGA. He may spring a surprise because of the popularity he enjoys in Jos North, the local government with the highest voters population, apart from the support he enjoys from his local government area and a few others. But the process that led to his emergence, against Danladi Atu, who was earlier chosen as the party’s candidate has polarised the LP. It has also pitched him against some notable party leaders like Senator Dariye, who it was learnt has threatened to withdraw his support, a development which many believe will definitely affect his chances. His financial muscle to prosecute the election may also be a restraint to achieving his goal.

Danladi Atu (ANPP) The former chairman of Jos North Local Government Area is a close ally of former Governor Dariye, now a senator. He first emerged the LP flag bearer and afterward abandoned the party and pitched tent with the ANPP when it was clear that the party was bent on fielding another candidate. He is, no doubt, popular within the zone, but many accuse him of not reaching out to the people. The crisis that trailed his exit from the LP may also dwarf his chances at the poll. Except his posters which dot some streets of Jos and environs, it is not clear if he has other campaign strategies, like many other contestants in the race, fueling speculations that he is in the race just to fulfill all righteousness.

ACN decries Presidency’s claim on gaffe over anti-graft

he Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) has described as a product of poor thinking, the decision by the Presidency to blame the inaccurate claim on Nigeria’s anti-corruption efforts, contained in the President’s 52nd anniversary speech, on the media, saying the action is worse than the original gaffe. “It is lazy and irresponsible for

CONTINUED FROM 13 ernments since February 2009. Can anyone point to any meaningful project or life changing efforts by the unelected and imposed local government authorities?” Oke said the debt burden has hampered development at the local government level, even as he noted that Mimiko has not fulfilled any of his electoral promises. His words: “As we speak, the local governments in the state are financially broke. Employees in 90 per cent of the councils, after agitation and threats have just been paid two months salaries owed them in arrears by the local councils on account of unavailability of fund. “It is also alarming that the state government is finalising plans to enter into a N3 billion loan deal with a first generation bank to enable it finance the state

handsomely-remunerated presidential aides to lift the claim of Nigeria’s supposed progress in the anti-corruption effort from a newspaper and insert such in a presidential speech without confirmation. But then anything is possible in a rookie presidency populated by apprentice aides,” the party said in a statement issued in Lagos yesterday by its Na-

tional Publicity Secretary, Alhaji Lai Mohammed. “It is even worse that those who committed this gaffe and made their principal and the entire country to look bad are justifying their action and, instead of owning up, shifting the blame to the so-called opposition media and the political opposition. What was the media supposed

to do in the face of such egregious lies? Reinforce the lies to Nigerians and the entire world? And should the opposition have applauded such a spurious claim?’’ it queried. ACN said in a global world with an almost instantaneous access to information, it costs nothing to ask Transparency International, the highly-responsive global coali-

Mimiko govt owes N110bn debts, says Oke

and local government employees’ salaries for September and October. This is apart from the N50 billion loan burden heaved on the people from the capital market. “As we speak, no single neighbourhood public water tap is working in the state whereas government embarrassingly spent well over N300 million in constructing a decorative water fountain at the very heart of the Oba Adesida highway. “With over N600 billion revenue since 2009, it is not surprising why the people are asking the governor, in voices raised to the roof, to point out one completed or commissioned road project and any established or facilitated large scale or cottage industry since 2009. “Did Mimiko not promise 4,000

jobs within 100 days? Did he not boast of establishing a N5 billion Ore Sunshine megacity plaza having 1,000 capacity trailer park, 200 shops, 2,000 residential units, hotels, power plant etc? Did he not promise a N3 billion tomato paste factory at Arigidi Akoko, a N13 billion motor assembly plant at Bolorunduro, Ondo East; an N8 billion cement factory at Okeluse; a N1.8 billion international conference centre among several others? Were billions of naira not released for all these? The people are asking Mimiko to point at any of these projects.” On his plans for the state if elected, Oke promised to revive ailing industries which include the Oluwa Glass Factory, Alpha 3D Building Material Company at Ikare Akoko, Okitipupa Oil Palm

Mill among other companies in the state. He also assured that his administration will ensure that the OKLNG project becomes a reality by involving relevant stakeholders. He said: “I will tackle the issue of unemployment in two phases, one, all the existing vacancies in the civil service and the 15,000 vacancies in the Teaching Service Commission will be filled systematically, while the second measure will be for all government agencies to establish an investment forum where graduates can take loans and participate in government projects effectively like construction of bridges, construction and renovation of schools across the state that does not need much expertise.”

tion against corruption, to verify the claim reportedly made by a local newspaper. In the alternative, the party noted, various government agencies engaged in the battle against corruption, including the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and other related offences Commission (ICPC), could have been contacted. “The point that is lost on these indolent aides is that every presidential speech is a reference document. Therefore, packing it with lies and unverified claims is totally condemnable, in addition to being a disservice to the President,” the party said. It advised the aides of the President who are engaged in communication or speech writing to take their job more seriously instead of running to the press at the slightest opportunity to lambast the opposition and denigrate the media, their latest whipping boy. ACN congratulated the media for spotting the lie that was apparently aimed at making a do-nothing presidency to look good, saying it only shows that the fourth estate of the realm is alive to its constitutional responsibility.

Editorial

Friday, October 5, 2012

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

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Dr. Abdu-Lateef Adegbite’s exit at age 79

overnor Ibikunle Amosun of Ogun State while rounding off the announcement of the demise of the late Dr. Abdu-Lateef Adegbite recently, said the fallen nationalist “... shone like a star in the field of law and was well known across the world as the mouthpiece of Islam in Nigeria”. The Abeokuta, Ogun State-born Dr. Adegbite (CON), was a statesman, religious leader, peacemaker and until his death, the Secretary-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA). He died in his Lagos residence on September 28. We think those few words by Governor Amosun aptly captured the life and times of the late Islamic scholar. Born on March 20, 1933 into an Egba Moslem family in Abeokuta, Adegbite obtained a scholarship to attend King’s College, Lagos where he was a co-founder and the first National President of the Moslem Students’ Society of Nigeria (MSSN). Shortly after his secondary education in 1956, he was offered another scholarship by the then Western Region Premier, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, to study Law at the University of Southampton in England, where he bagged a Bachelor of Arts degree in law in July 1962. From there he proceeded to the College of Law for Solicitors,

Lancaster Gate in London; and Gray’s Inn (1963-1965). He later obtained yet another scholarship from the Commonwealth for post-graduate studies in England. On his return to Nigeria in the early 1970s, Adegbite in 1971 was appointed by the then Governor of the defunct Western Region, General Christopher Oluwole Rotimi, as the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters; and was re-assigned as the Commissioner for Justice and AttorneyGeneral of the Region in 1973. He also had a stint with teaching at the University of Lagos, where he was a law lecturer until 1976 when he retired to private legal practice in Lagos, specialising in commercial and corporate law. A typical Egba man, Adegbite exerted social influence on the Rock City when he co-founded the famous Abeokuta Social Club in 1972. The Abeokuta Social Club was at the time a reflection of that dream, reputable and influential institution the cream of Egbaland socialites craved to associate with. He held the twin traditional titles of Seriki and Baba Adinni of Egba Muslims. He was once the Chairman of the Ogun State Pilgrims Board and a member of the National Pilgrims Board. A sportsman and notable sports philanthropist, Adegbite served

WHILE IN THE SADDLE AS THE

NSCIA SCRIBE, HE EXPLOITED EVERY OPPORTUNITY TO NOT ONLY SERVE HIS

MOSLEM COMMUNITY, BUT

IMMEDIATE

USED HIS EXALTED POSITION TO PROMOTE JUSTICE as the President of the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC) from 1972 to 1985. In recognition of his love for humanity and commitment to community development, he was appointed between 1984 and 1990 as the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of the University of Maiduguri; and variously served as a member of the Executive Committee, Lagos State Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Director, Industrial and General Insurance Plc. President Goodluck Jonathan appointed him as Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Public Awareness on Security and Civic Responsibilities on March 9, 2011.

Most visible, perhaps, was Adegbite’s role as a selfless Moslem leader and bridge-builder. At the Constituent Assembly in 1976, for instance, he led the argument for the establishment of Islamic Courts of Appeal in the southern states for Moslems. The low points in his religious cause being when he joined the late Chief MKO Abiola to agitate for the introduction of Sharia in the southern states in the early 1990s; and when he supported the Sharia-for-all-Moslems call during the sensitive period of Sharia riots under former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s civilian government in December 2002. Nevertheless, Adegbite’s failure to pull through some of his dreams never undermined his firm commitment to the nation’s oneness. While in the saddle as the NSCIA scribe, he exploited every opportunity to not only serve his immediate Moslem community, but used his exalted position to promote justice, peace and religious tolerance; as well as building bridges to link Moslems and Christians in the country and the rest of the world. Adegbite, in most of his dealings in his lifetime, blended religion, law and morality. He, indeed, excelled as a nationalist and statesman. He will not be missed by the Islamic world alone. The loss will be felt by all peace lovers across the world.

ON THIS DAY October 5, 2011 The Mekong River massacre occurred in the morning of October 5, 2011, when two Chinese cargo ships were attacked on a stretch of the Mekong River in the lawless Golden Triangle area of Southeast Asia. All 13 crew members on the two ships were killed and dumped in the river. It was the deadliest attack on Chinese nationals abroad in modern times. In response, China temporarily suspended shipping on the Mekong, and reached agreement with Myanmar (Burma), Thailand, and Laos to jointly patrol the river.

October 5, 2000 Mass demonstrations in Belgrade led to the resignation of once Serbian strongman, Slobodan Milosevic. The demonstrations were often referred to as the ‘Bager revolucija’, translated as the Bulldozer Revolution; or the ‘5 October Overthrow’. A series of events occurred in 2000 in the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia, following the presidential elections and culminated in the downfall of Milosevic’s government on October 5, 2000.

October 5, 1948 The 1948 Ashgabat earthquake in the Turkmen Soviet Socialist Republic killed 110,000. Due to censorship by the national government, the Ashgabat Earthquake was not much reported in the USSR media. Scholars, however, tend to agree that the ban on publicizing the extent of earthquake casualties and damages did not allow the Soviet government to allocate enough financial resources to adequately respond to the disaster.

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Friday, October 5, 2012

Transforming our technical and vocational education SIMEON NWAKAUDU

he deliverables in the education sector have been pouring in for Nigerians over the last six months at a sustained tempo. This is a demonstration of the commitment of the Goodluck Jonathan administration to quality education service delivery. To say that the quality impact of the present administration is most felt in the basic education sector is to merely emphasize the obvious. President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan sees this sub-sector as a veritable tool for addressing the employment and economic needs of the people. In the last seven months, the Minister of State for Education, Barr. Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, has been synergising with international development partners to ensure that a workable framework is developed to achieve the administration’s goals on technical and vocational education. He has had to explain to project implementation officials and stakeholders that the zeal with which the government is pursing the actualization of the Almajiri and girl-child education programmes should be replicated in the technical and vocational education sector to ensure the realization of the goals of FG. In January this year, the minister led a FG delegation to Highbury College, Portsmouth, United Kingdom to firm up the modalities and implementation framework of the nation’s technical and vocational education programme. The essence of developing this programme is to ensure that technical and vocational education be-

comes relevant to the nation and appreciated amongst the people, especially those seeking employment in an increasingly challenging economy. Under the template, the existing Federal Science and Technical Colleges would be transformed into centres for the impartation of lifelong entrepreneurial skills into the youths. The government also aims at establishing technical and vocational centres of excellence in different parts of the country to serve as models to states and private proprietors, who are expected to key into the programme. On Tuesday, September 17, Barr Wike and a team from Highbury College, Portsmouth met in Abuja to finalise the processes for the implementation of the partnership programme targeted at developing employment opportunities for Nigerian youths. The principal of the UK school, Stella Mbubaegbu (MBE) and Deborah See, executive in charge, Curriculum Development and Quality Assurance, presented a programme for enhancing the facilities and curriculum of the new technical and vocational centres. They also presented a training schedule for teachers and facilitators at the existing Federal Science and Technical colleges. The Principal of Highbury College had indicated during the occasion that her school would assist in Nigeria’s drive towards building a viable economic base to tackle its unemployment challenges. At that meeting, the Minister of State for Education stated that in line with the focus on employment generation for the youth through development of entrepre-

THE GOVERNMENT ALSO AIMS AT ESTABLISHING TECHNICAL AND VOCATIONAL CENTRES OF EXCELLENCE IN DIFFERENT PARTS OF THE COUNTRY neurial skills, the FG had started the process of establishing new vocational and technical education centres across the country. Wike said that new vocational training centres would be used as practical platforms to groom a viable workforce to develop the economy of the nation. He said that the new centres would train Nigerian youths in line with the employment needs of existing companies. “We are partnering with Portsmouth Highbury College to develop these new vocational and technical colleges across the country because of the expertise of this school. We have been to the various campuses of the school in the United Kingdom and we are convinced that this partnership will achieve the desired result. “We are further committed to capacity building for our existing technical and vocational teachers to assist us achieve the goals of practically training our children to make them employers of labour, instead of job seekers”, Wike said.

With the planning process for the enhancement of vocational and technical education over, the next stage is that of implementing the programme. The Federal Government has already started the funding of the revival of facilities, training equipment, workshops and laboratories in 22 existing Federal Science and Technical colleges. The additional investment in the provision of vocational and technical education training facilities underscores the significance the Jonathan government attaches to the creation of employment opportunities for Nigerian youths. Aside the partnership that has been consummated with the Highbury College, Portsmouth, the federal government has entered a working relationship with the Korean International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) for the same purpose. The essence of the current reform in the sector is to ensure that the existing and planned technical colleges in Nigeria transit from centres where theoretical learning take place to practical centres where Nigerian youths are groomed in viable technical trades, which would empower them to be players in the economy of the nation. The Minister of State for Education, is driving the new reform in the nation’s vocation and technical education sector to ensure Nigeria realizes her goal of using education to overcome all her development challenges. Nwakaudu is media aide of Minister of State for Education

Re: Amosun, ACN, and the decay of Ota OLUSOLA BALOGUN

read with interest Mr. Soni Asuelimen authored piece titled “Amosun, ACN, and the Decay of Ota”, which appeared on page 15 of the Monday, September 24, 2012 edition of this newspaper. In that piece the writer alleged that Governor Ibikunle Amosun administration in Ogun State had not delivered social amenities to the people of Ota Local Government Area. Mr. Asuelimen must be a resident of Ota area to be familiar with the specificities of the vicinity. However, in the write up he failed to present the reality on the ground. His submissions were substantially untrue. Governor Amosun is committed to urban renewal and this is signposted by the rehabilitation and construction of roads. He met a near-collapse of social infrastructure, but within the last 16 months the governor has kept faith with his promises to the people despite the huge debt burden he inherited and the lean purse of the state. Interestingly, the writer acknowledged the disappearance of heaps of refuse dumps along Abeokuta-Lagos Express road, but he failed to commend the government for ensuring free flow of traffic in and around Sango Under Bridge by dislodging traders and others urchins that often caused traffic snarl in that section of the town. Again, though he acknowledged the neglect of Ota LGA by the Gbenga Daniel administration, Mr. Asuelimen failed to appreciate that this neglect of eight years cannot be ameliorated in just 16 months!

THE CITIZENRY AS WELL AS PUBLIC COMMENTATORS NEED TO APPRECIATE THAT FAILED ROADS CANNOT BE FIXED IN A HURRY The government is well aware of its social responsibilities to the people and possesses the capacity to turn the fortune of the state around, but patience needs to be exercised. The inherited rot is deep. The citizenry as well as public commentators need to appreciate that failed roads cannot be fixed in a hurry. The administration is faced with situations where some roads failed less than four months after they were commissioned by the last administration. Such roads in Ota include Adalemo Road, Adalemo-Ijamido Townhall Road and Animashaun-Abeokuta-Lagos Express way Road. It is painful that the write-up, which ordinarily ought to contain hard facts, was bereft of them. For instance, the claim that the Atan-Agbara road is ‘derelict’ is complete fallacy. The 19 kilometer road was recently rehabilitated by officials of the State Ministry of Works and Infrastructure. The first phase of the Ojuore-Ilogbo road has been reconstructed and was commissioned during the administration’s first year anniversary in May, 2012. The reconstruction of the four kilometer road was done in partnership

with Shell Nigeria Limited. Construction work is presently ongoing on the second phase of the road to effectively link Oju-ore with Ilogbo town. The writer can go and cross-check these facts. Failed portions of roads across the state left unattended by the last administration are being systematically rehabilitated under the zero-tolerance for potholes policy of this administration. The failed portions of Ado-Odo-Owode road, also in Ado-Odo/ Ota LGA are presently under repairs. Ota Township has equally benefited enormously from this drive. It now has a new motor park, courtesy of the state government. The contract for the 4.8 kilometer IloAwela road will soon be awarded. When completed by the end of next year the road will link up with the popular Joju Roundabout in Ota. Other projects in the pipeline are the 32 kilometer Sango-Ijoko-AgbadoOke Aro-Akute-Ojodu Abiodun road, which will be executed through ContractorFinance arrangement. When completed, the road, which will run through towns in Ogun West and Ogun Central senatorial districts, will have about four pedestrian bridges in between. The remarks of Mr. Asuelimen on the alleged poor state of primary and secondary education in the state do no credit to the effort of the administration in reviving that sector. If there is an area where the administration is drawing most plaudits, it is in the education sector. Governor Amosun has backed his free and qualitative education policy with massive construction and renovation of primary and secondary schools

buildings. The State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) is a collaborator here. Textbooks, exercise books and instructional materials are distributed free to pupils and students in these schools. The governor has also restored the payment of running cost, which was stopped in 2004 by the last administration to assist in administering these schools. Undoubtedly, the issue of power outage is not peculiar to Ogun State and power generation is outside the purview of state governments. Nevertheless, the Ogun State government recently purchased and distributed 500 transformers to needy communities across the state to boost electricity supply. Surely, several communities in Ota LGA benefitted from this programme. I believe Mr. Asuelimen’s remark that the trademark cap of the Governor gives an “impression of lackadaisical governance” is totally out of place in what is expected to be a fair commentary. Around this time last year armed robbers laid siege on the state. The administration confronted the problem frontally. I doubt if that qualifies as “lackadaisical governance”. Balogun, balogunesola@gmail.com, is a media aide to Ogun State governor 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. Pseudonyms may be used but must be clearly marked as such.

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Friday, October 5, 2012

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Ondo people want Mimiko out

D The Mubi outrage

hat Nigeria has joined the league of notoriously outlandish banal countries of the world where human beings are treated like chickens that could be slaughtered at will, should be a cause for concern for all discerning Nigerians and men and women of conscience. What could have spurred the Mubi killings? That some psychopaths could sit down and plan to plant these unmitigated sorrows in three higher institutions in the town, Federal Plytechnic, Adamawa State University and School of Health Technology, is an indication of a society that has lost its sense of value. Criminality has become an industry in the country. In the Niger Delta region and South East, the biggest business now is kidnapping for ransoms; in most of our urban centres, it used to be yahoo, yahoo, but now the recent death of Cynthia Osokogu has added a new dimension to cyber crimes; South East has become the capital of child trafficking with Akwa Ibom State the next in ranking; in the North of the country, morbid spread of death and destructions is like a stalking horse. Why? The various authorities have failed woefully to spend the right money to get the right hardware and software backed with the necessary logistics to confront the evil in all its forms. History will record it against the current crop of leaders that parade the corridors of power that they failed to carry out the core function of government, which is the maintenance of law and order. Anthony Igbavbua, Uzebba, Edo State

Gov. Nyako

r. Olusegun Mimiko, incumbent governor of Ondo State, the Sun Shine state, will be so humiliated in the forthcoming October 20 governorship election that he will run away without handing over to his successor. His achievements are nowhere near any of the other governors in the country, talk more of the ACN governors in the South West, who are constantly on their toes. The state has not had it so bad since the Bode George era. Mimiko has hardworking Governor

Kayode Fayemi of Ekiti State to inspire him. The enterprising Fayemi has introduced social security scheme for the old people of the state, among other numerous groundbreaking achievements. Everybody is now talking about the rationale behind his eagerness to make the Sun Shine State a debtor state more so when he inherited N38 billion from the administration of Olusegun Agagu and has so far collected N600 billion from Abuja. Obviously, Mimiko is not alone. Who are his friends and how rich are

they? What do they do for a living and how much tax do they pay? These pertinent questions are why Mimiko will run away and not hand over to his successor. The Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) is thinking hard and working hard. It is focusing on integration, economic development, job creation and structural development. One thing is certain: just to get rid of Mimiko, the other parties that are not too strong will vote for ACN. The Labour Party will not enjoy the kind of sup-

Environmental degradation of Akute Community High School, Akute Ogun State.

port it hard in 2007, so the party chieftains have become clueless, which is why they are deploying thuggery to intimidate opponents. All of a sudden, Rotimi Akeredolu’s image is looming larger in Ondo State. He will be magnanimous in victory because naturally he is a happy person, ever smiling, likeable and handsome. It has something to do with his mien and the aura that he radiates with the truthfulness in his speech to the people as he went from ward to ward in his campaigns. A very hardwork-

Letters to the Editor

alleviating poverty. So, it will be very easy to catch in on these factors to mount a strident campaign against Mimiko’s second term bid. However, I have not seen such creativity in those that would want to ease him out of the State House, Akure. The opposition ought to form a formidable front to dislodge the incumbent, but the prevailing political reality would not ensure this. The PDP and the ACN cannot agree to work together. Treachery is the major factor against such alliance. Mimiko rode on the back of Asiwaju Bola Tinu-

bu to the State House, Akure without reciprocating the gesture. Once beaten, twice shy, the saying goes. Mimiko is assured of his support bloc and the votes that would come from it are intact. The bigger fraction of the state’s political bloc is up for grabs by the opposition. But the permutation might favour Mimiko because PDP and ACN would likely be engaged in a mutually assured destruction game for the votes from the bigger bloc. How I wish Ondo opposition has a strategic thinker like Comrade

Victor Adamolekun, Ikeja, Lagos

On INEC is broke

Adams Oshiomhole and such a person is in one of the strong contending parties. Allegations of vote buying and importation of thugs are empty if there is no conscious effort to seduce the electorate with the charisma of an achiever with quality programmes. Money might just be a moot factor as demonstrated in the July 14 Edo governorship elections where people took money and voted against the party that gave them the money.

rofessor Attahiru Jega, the Chairman of Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) was reported on Wednesday to have told the House of Representatives Committee on Electoral Matters that the commission was broke. Defending his statement, he said that of the N35 billion earmarked for the commission in the 2012 budget, only N10 billion had so far been released; and that was in March. The second tranche of the release done last month, he said, was lodged in the Treasury Savings Account under the office of the Accountant General of the Federation, a development that has made it difficult for his commission to access the money. Jega said he had made a case for the commission’s exemption from the TSA scheme to no avail. There is no limit to the extent Finance Minister and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala’s textbook economics will not ridicule practical governance in this country. Jega needs not to beg, or visit the right people with the right gifts to get what he wants because of the sensitivity of INEC. I think he has one weapon left for him: blackmail. He should tell President Goodluck Jonathan that his commission is not in a position to conduct the October 20 Ondo governorship elections. His prayers will immediately be answered. I suspect that his credentials as a radical is shutting many doors against him. Nobody will be ready to discuss with him the Nigerian way of resolving issues like this. This is the problem with having a radical in government.

Akinmuwagun Joye, Idanre, Ondo State

Kunle Akinnugba, Ondo, Ondo State

PHOTO: ADEMOLA AKINLABI

Mimiko against disarrayed opposition

he forthcoming Ondo State governorship election is as intriguing as it is interesting. Governor Oulsegun Mimiko is very vulnerable. Many of those that made it possible for him to win the 2007 election have become his sworn enemies; the dividends of democracy which are the people’s compensation from him come in trickles; and there is pervasive hunger among the generality of the people of the state because the economic programmes of the government are not geared towards generating employment or

ing politician, he left no stone unturned during his campaigns.

Send your letters or mails to PMB 10001, Ikoyi, or our Email: mirrorlagos@yahoo.com and info@nationalmirroronline.net or, 07033375481, 08035640907 (SMS only). The Editor reserves the right to edit and reject letters or photographs. Psuedonyms may be used, but must be clearly marked as such.

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Flavour

Friday, October 5, 2012

Tochukwu (3rd from left) and Mikel (4th from left) with some artistes under the label.

Mikel Obi invests $1m in Nigerian music Matured Money Minds has also signed on artistes like Edgar, Splash, Charass and Kido who have been working tirelessly with sound engineers and producers to actualise the hopes of this venture. Aside helping budding talents realise their potentials, the talented footballer’s decision to invest in music also has a lot to do with the promises he made to Tochukwu, his younger brother about helping him achieve his other potentials. Although Toch-

ukwu is also a talented soccer player who once played for the Nigerian Under-17 football team, the idea of plying his trade internationally, like his elder brother, has not yielded fruits, a reason his brother sent him to the University. But along the line, Tochukwu began to show interest in music which prompted the idea of MMM. Friday Flavour spoke with Tochukwu, who was in the studio and he said it was a new dawn in the entertainment industry. He revealed that MMM will

live up to its brand name, by approaching the business in a matured manner. According to him, MMM would be relying on talent and technology to turn around the industry. “We recognise the fact that we live in a competitive environment. MMM is aware of the competitive nature and we are prepared. First of all, to make the impact we want, we would be relying on talent and technology. Already, we are in the studio with the best hands in terms of making music. Our artistes are talented. MMM is already working with many artistes and more will be joining in due course. At the moment, I am in the studio and if you listen to the background, you will notice that serious rehearsals are going on here. We have talent, we are deploying the best technology and I also thank God that we have artistes who are committed to their act. They are artistes who desire to make a change in the industry. All I can tell the Nigerian entertainment industry is to watch out for us, because very soon, we will be blazing the trail”. Nigerian music has always attracted some notable athletes in the past. Aside Mikel Obi who has ventured into record label business now, sports personalities like Emmanuel Babayaro, Jonathan Akpoborie and Taribo West have all, at one point or the other, tested the microphone.

WEEKEND STARTERS Goethe, AAF show ‘The Organic’

oethe-Institut Nigeria, in collaboration with African Artist Foundation (AAF), tomorrow presents a visual arts exhibition titled “The Organic” by Uche

Uzorka at the Lagos City Hall, Lagos Island. Uzorka, an indigene of Delta State, had his training in Fine and Applied Arts at the University of Nsukka; majoring in Painting. In 2011 he won the National Arts competition. “The Organic” is his first solo exhibition.

4-day Ofala fest in Onitsha

nitsha, Anambra State is wearing a colourful look for this year’s Ofala Festival celebrations sponsored by Globacom. The annual tourist event kicked off yesterday and continues today featuring youth rally, carnival. Tomorrow,

Azu Ofala Day, the traditional dancing of the Red Cap Chiefs and paying of homage to the Obi, Agbogidi Alfred Nnaemeka Achebe will take place, while on Sunday, the Agbogidi and the Royal family will hold a thanksgiving mass at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Onitsha ending with a Royal Banquet in honour of the royal family.

CORA book party on Sunday

he Committee for Relevant Art (CORA) holds it fourth annual Book Party on Sunday at the Freedom Park, Broad Street, Lagos. The event runs

from 1.00 p.m. to 5.00 p.m. The session of readings, reviews, conversations and fraternisation will feature the shortlisted writers in the yearly Nigeria

Prize for Literature. It promises to be a mini-literary picnic –talking, wining, dining and fun– celebrating Nigeria’s literature and her creative spirits. The gate is free.

UK DJs celebrate Nigeria@52

celebration of Nigerian pop music over the last 15 years is on tomorrow at an Independence Dance Party, courtesy of Western Union and featuring some of London’s hottest DJs. The line up for the all-night gig, holding at LaFace, 169-171

T Fore St, Edmonton, London, N18 2XB, includes DJ Abass, DJ Whateva, DJ Jerry, DJ Shola-Bee and DJ Roblife.

Ongoing Independence exhibition

T Dudu

o mark the 52nd anniversary of Nigeria, Alliance Francaise, Lagos has organised an exhibition titled “Stories in Grayscale” by the artist, Stanley Dudu. Daily human interac-

Poetry and wine blend today

tions provide prolific source of subject material for this awardwinning artist. The exhibition, which opened on Tuesday, October 2, is on at Alliance Francaise, Yaba till Saturday, October 13.

oday, ‘Authors in Conversation’ which is one of the programmes holding under the 4-day cultural extravaganza called; “A Tale of Two Cities: Lagos and Johannesburg” holds at the poolside, Federal Palace Hotel, Victoria Island by 7.00 p.m. It will feature poetry reading/performance and wine tasting. Among the poets proposed for that evening are Ayodele Arigbabu, Samuel Osaze, Toni Kan and Jumoke Verissimo.

Mirror Mongers

BIGGER

P. 34

GOING TO GET

Denrele’s Day

WAY AND IT IS EVEN

P. 24-25

HAS COME A LONG

Inside FCT

ENTERTAINMENT

he Nigerian music scene is set for another milestone as Nigerian International and Chelsea FC midfielder; John Mikel Obi makes an inroad into the scene. Friday Flavour gathered that the soccer star is investing over $1m on Matured Money Minds (MMM), a record label that would be run by Patrick Tochukwu Obi, his younger brother who is also a student of Business Management at the University of Cambridge in the United Kingdom. The funds will, however, be released in phases as the record label, which will have branches in cities like Jos (Mikel’s town of birth), Lagos and Enugu, takes shape. The idea to float MMM was honed by the footballer’s commitment to help many Nigerian youths realise their potentials. To this end, Mikel has directed that good hands be brought on board in the areas of recording, distribution and video production. “We are getting very competent people. We are committed to making a difference in the scene and would approach the business from a more matured angle. Nigerian entertainment has come a long way and it is even going to get bigger”, the midfielder told Friday Flavour in a telephone conversation. With plans to formally introduce the label at a climax, Friday Flavour learnt that Mikel would be in Nigeria on Monday when he would seize the opportunity of taking part in preparations for Super Eagles’ next match in Calabar, Cross River, to pep up preparations for the final launch of the label’s set of songs which would take place in Lagos in a matter of weeks.

P. 32-33

NIGERIAN

NGOZI EMEDOLIBE

P. 31

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

Escape

VOL. 2 No. 463

Artman In The House

Friday, October 5, 2012

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

In 5 years, Nigeria will lead Otunba Segun Runsewe (OON), is the Director General of Nigerian Tourism Development Corporation (NTDC), the agency of government charged with the responsibility of promoting, marketing and coordinating tourism activities in the country. Nigerian tourism, which dates back to 1962 when the Nigerian Tourist Association was formed by a group of private practitioners, clocked 50 this September. Their objective was to project the tourism potentials of the country, encourage domestic and international tourism leading to the admission of Nigeria as a member of the International Union of Official Travel Organisation (IUOTO) now World Tourism Organisation (WTO) in 1964, and the promulgation of Decree 54 of 1976 establishing the Nigerian Tourism Board, amended to the NTDC Decree 81 of 1992. In this interview with Friday Flavour’s TERH AGBEDEH, he talks about NTDC’s work so far and the future of tourism in Nigeria. Now that Nigeria is 52, how would you assess the country’s tourism sector so far? In September of this year, tourism clocked 50 years. I must tell you that the greatest departure of tourism before now is that there were too many workshops, seminars and so on. But when I came, I tried to set up what I call the practical tourism strategy and it has paid off, it has brought a new dimension to tourism and today, we have more of domestic tourism than international and that has really helped our country. People have keyed into it. Recently in London, a Canadian lady asked me; ‘Otunba, is it not the same Nigeria you are speaking so well about that has 419?’ Look, even the 419 people are not Nigerians. I challenged the white lady in London; ‘can you differentiate between a Ghanaian and a Togolese or between a Cameroonian and a Nigerian? She said no. What happens is if anybody is arrested for a crime abroad and asked where they come from, they say Nigeria. A top civil servant in America once told me he thought Nigeria is Africa. All they know about the Black race is Nigeria, so when you mention any other place, they don’t know about it. Check the records, when there was crisis in Egypt over 1500 tourists were trapped at the airport. As at today, the number of tourists has increased. They didn’t use that as a barrier. I always use 9/11 (a disaster) in America as a point of reference. I went to America after 9/11 and they said I had to pay to be taken round the site; that they have a tour guide. I thought it was a joke but I paid money and the tour guide started talking; ‘when the aircraft passed through here...’ Apart from the 419 toga what would you say are the challenges of Nigerian tourism? The fundamental challenge of tourism in Nigeria is the people understanding the benefits and economic strength of tourism. That has been the fundamental

problem. But after some time, we have succeeded in making them understand the benefits of tourism, which of course makes a whole lot of difference. Today, a lot of people now understand that tourism can add to our economic strength and can also be an economic reformer of our great country. We all depend so much on oil but one day, oil will dry up. But before that happens, what is the alternative to oil? We are lucky that we have been able to identify tourism. So what I would say is the greatest victory that we have had for tourism is Nigerians imbibing the spirit of appreciating what tourism can do for our country. But there are those who say that Nigeria is not marketing its tourism potentials to the world the way it should done, the way a country like South Africa is doing. Today (referring to when the interview was conducted), we gave certificates to members of the Nigerian Association of Tour Operators (NATOP); it’s an effort and they had to give me a standing ovation. The issue is that for a long time we have paid lip service to tourism and we have not been able to say that this is what tourism can add to our economic strength. But now, with the little effort we have been able to put in place, Nigerians are imbibing the spirit of tourism; appreciating what we can do and how it can add value to our economy. That is the strategy and I have touched so many areas. We are meeting with taxi drivers at the airport because they are the first point of contact when you come to the country. We decided to build up a communication and information model so that when a tourist or visitor comes to Nigeria, the taxi drivers will know how best to talk with the person and sell the country positively. We are going to seven airports namely; Lagos, Abuja, Calabar, Enugu, Jos, Kano and Port Harcourt. We have connected with the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC); we are going to train the taxi driv-

Exterior of the Tourism Village, Abuja.

WHAT WE WERE DOING BEFORE NOW WAS ‘ARMCHAIR

TOURISM’ OF MANY CONFERENCES,

WORKSHOPS AND SEMINARS ers, who are very important that is why we are starting with them. For the first time NTDC has produced a log book for the use of taxi drivers at the airports in Nigeria. We are going to give it to all of them for free. There is the issue of hotels where tourists would stay on visits and recently, there was the Cynthia case. Apart from insisting hotels deploy CCTV, what else is the NTDC doing to make hotels safer for guests? We are working on all that now. We are working with the security agencies with whom we have been able to put a synergy in place by saying that at any given time in a hotel, we must have information which goes back to a checklist. Two, we have set up a biometric system and every staff working in a hotel must have an information database so that if they move from hotel A to hotel B, there are checks and balances should they do something wrong in the first hotel and intend to run away. NTDC is on it now. In the case of Cynthia that was killed, people are commending NTDC because

we insisted that there must be CCTV in all the hotels. Without CCTV, nobody would have known what happened to Cynthia. But I must tell you that if you are making progress, you must be ready to make enemies. We must face reality of life, things are changing and the world is moving ahead. We have chosen the aspect of being honourable and we want to add value to this industry. With the biometric system introduced by NTDC, the era of fraud among employees in the tourism sector is gone. Any hotel that is not on NTDC web site is illegal. What we have done in this industry cannot be quantified in naira and kobo. What is the rationale behind NTDC handing out certificates to tour operators? We are trying to open out a new approach whereby anybody who pays to visit Nigeria can be sure that his or her money is safe. We can trace the money to the person it was paid to. Unlike in the past that you pay money and the next thing you hear is that those people you paid to have closed shop or are no more operating within that range. These are some of the security measures we are trying to put in place just to be able to help check the industry and make sure the right things are being done. There is an Igbo proverb which says that when you wake up is your morning. Let us consider this our morning and we have just woken up from our slumber. The strategy for selling packaged tours in America is different from the way it is sold in Brazil. The Americans are one of the greatest travellers but they don’t travel

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Friday, October 5, 2012

Artman In The House

Africa in tourism –Runsewe

Runsewe holds up the tourism book at the launch in Abuja recently

L-R: Wife of the Deputy Senate President, Nwanneka Ekweremadu; one of the beneficiaries, Kate Ikhile and Otunba Runsewe during the distribution of sewing machines/grinding machines to widows to mark 50 years of the Corporation in Abuja last week.

Why not? We are going to work with them. Nollywood is making a lot of impact and that cannot be taken away from them. We are going to partner with them; we want to make sure that at the end of the day, we are able to showcase the best of Nigeria and it does not have to be through any particular sector or industry.

Runsewe (in Agbada) surrounded by tour operations after the presentation of certificates in Lagos last month.

except there is a packaged tour that will be planned a year ahead. The NTDC has taken a slogan called, Take a Stroll. Today, tour operators in India and Egypt are selling one product, health tourism. The best golf course in Africa is in Uyo and if you package a tour it will sell. There is a fantastic hotel inside that golf course. Not only that, it is about the only golf course where Tiger Woods can play in the country, apart from IBB Golf Course. We need to change our perception about life; I like to do things nobody can attempt. I succeeded in getting the first ever golf academy in the whole of Africa in Nigeria. When Boko Haram struck, they said they want to move it out of Nigeria. I told them there are 774 local government areas in Nigeria. ‘Are you telling me that if there is a strike in Los Angeles the whole of America is closed?’ I asked and they said no. I must be courageous to sell my country because I don’t have another country. Before the end of November, Nigeria will be the first African country to hold an academy in golf. South Africa makes over $60 million from golf alone. During the World Cup in 2010, 56 percent of those that went to the World Cup were playing golf. The golf courses were busier than was normally the case. NTDC launched Naija Seven Wonders recently; what is it all about? Seven Wonders is actually a public/ private partnership (PPP) initiative. The private sector came up with it and we saw it as a strong tool to promote our tourism. Those Seven Wonders are now the language of tourists and a point of reference

for most visitors to Nigeria. Like I said, it is a public/private partnership that is yielding fruits. We encouraged those who went out to identify 60 different destinations and zeroed it to seven. These seven are the unique product which we are supporting in marketing and showcasing them to the world. Do you think at this stages the sector has the capacity to handle heavy tourism traffic from America for instance? It is simple. We found out that a lot of African-Americans, through a DNA test carried out sometime ago in America, have traced their roots to Nigeria and want to come and see what their roots look like. We are taking advantage of that as well to showcase the strength of Nigeria; we are getting the tour operators prepared to do what we call packaged tours. That is the strategy we have adopted. Would you say that the lack of publicprivate partnerships is the reason tourism in Nigeria is not there yet? What we were doing before now was ‘armchair tourism’ of many conferences, workshops and seminars. But now, we have departed from that and we are going to practical tourism. People are tired of hearing people talk about what will happen, they want to see food on the table. That is the strategy I have adopted. We have a thriving film industry dubbed Nollywood, do you have plans to work with them to market tourism since they are already reaching many people in the world with their films?

The book, Nigeria: Tourism is Life, what informed its publication by NTDC? If you have to sell Nigeria, you have to sell Nigeria properly with a document. For a long time, nobody has been able to bring out a document that speaks for Nigeria and makes a difference. Thank God that during our lifetime, we have been able to do that. We are now looking up to people to use it properly in order to market both the domestic and international tourism. If you want the history of Nigeria you will find it in this book; every Nigerian is represented. We took time to do this book. We chose the best colours. It’s a lifetime document. This book has been given to all the ministers, governors, captains of industry, tour operators and so on. There seem to be hundreds of interesting festivals that people do not know about. What is NTDC doing to make these festivals known to the world? We have a calendar with over 150 carnivals across the country we are supporting. In fact, only last week we identified a new one in Niger State and we are going to support them in a big way next year. What do you see when you look at the future of tourism in Nigeria; do you think that this country will one day depend on tourism for its foreign exchange rather than oil? With the kind of strategy we have put in place, I want to assure you honestly that in another five years, tourism will have a fantastic new look in the history of Nigeria. I can tell you that in another five years, we are also looking at a country that will lead Africa in terms of tourism content. That will be the first of its kind in the history of the country. We are going to be a leading tourism destination in Africa.

FACT FILE •

NTDC is one of the parastatals under the Federal Ministry of Culture, Tourism and National Orientation.

•

A Tourism Village which models some of our cultural distinctions is situated within the NTDC premises in Area 1 Garki, Abuja

•

Since 2007, Otunba Runsewe has directed affairs at this institution

•

The ex-journalist was given a National Honour by late President Umaru Yar’Adua in 2008

•

90 per cent of Otunba’s wardrobe is made up of African attires.

•

The DG boss is passionate about antique cars and owns a 1958 Mercedes Benz

•

In his late 50s, Runsewe dances or plays golf for relaxation.

We talk about tourism development but transportation is still a big issue... Transport is important. Take Lagos State for instance; we can never make any progress without a rail system. There must be a rail system in the country. The population of Lagos alone is equal to 11 countries in Africa. Our roads are being over burdened carrying oil and many other goods. Akwaaba: African Travel Market will hold in a few weeks, what are those who will attend to expect from the gathering this year? We are going to use Akwaaba this year to market Nigeria as a country. We are also going to use Akwaaba to bring in an American, Paul Koren, one of the biggest players in the industry. He will be here to interact and interface with our own tour operators. We are going to encourage all the different states to bring out their products as a way of showing the strength of each state.

Critics

Friday, October 5, 2012

Book

Assessing universities in Nigeria

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Film

The news about the poor ranking of universities in Nigeria is not as worrying as the revelations from this compilation of essays: Assessment of Nigerian Universities Environment. NGOZI EMEDOLIBE

t is no longer news that the standard of education in the country has dropped drastically. But it is interesting that the book, Assessment of Nigerian Universities Environment is a child of circumstance: a project that was headed in one direction but ultimately stumbles on other interesting but disturbing realities. When Educational Support Services and the Voice of Nigeria (VON) jointly set out to get essays from Nigerian undergraduates under the theme, Assessment of Nigerian Universities Environment, their sole aim was to get the students to offer some insights about their campuses that could help parents and prospective students make choices concerning the schools. It was thrown open like a literary competition and the students were asked to dwell on areas such as social and political environment, unionism, cultism and academic environment amongst others. Unfortunately, in spite of the wide publicity the competition enjoyed, having been published in four national dailies aside from being advertised on all the campuses, only about 150 entries were received from the length and breadth of Nigeria. This is an appalling number of entries considering that the country has about 122 universities with a student population running into tens of millions. But that is a far cry to what this 192page book, edited by Temple Onyeukwu, is revealing. From the essays on parade, it is obvious that the quality of education has further dropped to a frightening level, as most of the entries lacked creativity and style. The book, which is a compilation of the 21 best essays that were entered by the stu-

THE BOOK CAME OUT LIKE GOVERNMENT

PROBE REPORT, WHICH IS USUALLY DUMPED AFTER FINDINGS BY THE COMMITTEES dents, obviously portrayed a student population that is not in tune with their subject before embarking on the writing task. While the aim of an essay of this nature is to convince one that a certain school is good or bad, the essays would leave one more confused about making a choice at all. While pretending to be dwelling on areas the competition tasked the students to cover, a lot of the entries only consumed space talking about the administrative structures of their schools. And these basic facts are usually handed out in most handbooks or brochures offered during registration and would leave one wondering how many of the essays are original. This is not as frightening as the lack of cohesion the bodies of the essays represent. While an essay ought to be an arrangement of logical thoughts (in words); most of the essays in the compilation lacked reasoning. Someone who is hoping to find an essay that would help policy formulators, school administrators or prospective students make a changing decision would obviously be disappointed with these works. Also appalling is the way most of them handled the issue of cultism. Most of the entries treated it feebly as if it does not exist. That aspect of campus culture in Nigeria could be handled in an essay by dwelling on what the students’ experiences are and what the school authorities have been able to do to curb the trend. While most of the essays have structural deficiencies, something is also worrying about the entire package called, Assessment of Nigerian Universities Environment. The book, owing to the poor packaging, came out like government probe report, which is usually dumped after findings by the committees. The binding, printing and designs left little to be desired. Although a subject of this nature may seem hard, nothing says that when a book is about to be published, it should not be done well. Some questions remain unanswered about this project. What is responsible for this poor outing? Is it that the prize money, (N100,000 for the best essay) is too paltry or that Nigerian students lack the competence? The answer may be buried in the latter!

The Kinshasa Orchestra

A city’s music, spirit, zeal

When there is a will there is little that is insurmountable. Members of the Orchestre Symphonique Kimbanguiste rise above their struggles of civil strife and lack of basic amenities to become a group everyone is singing about in the world over. TERH AGBEDEH

creened as the film for the month on the last Saturday in September at the Goethe Institut/iREP FilmClub Screening event held at the Nigerian Film Corporation (NFC), Lagos, the documentary, Kinshasa Symphony, comes across as loud as it is sharp. Loud in the sense that the sound is so good the viewers, which include a smattering

of Congolese living in Nigeria and the usual crowd of expatriates and lovers of film, can hear it echo in the hall. And the picture quality, so sharp that every scene makes a statement and the cameras miss nothing. This is the story of an obscure group of amateur musicians (at least before the film catapults them to fame) located in the capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo, a place renowned for war and poverty as is evident in every slide.

Play

War of the sexes continues There is an age-long battle between the sexes, but in Africa, that battle is still fuelled by traditions that many say should have long been discarded as the play Journey of the African Woman portrays. TERH AGBEDEH

here is a war out there between men and women but it would seem that members of the ‘weaker sex’ are still the major casualties in the exchange. But their male counterparts will not hear of it as over the years, they continue to lord it over women who should be their help mates. It is no accident then that at MUSON Centre, Lagos on September 16 an all female cast took part in the play, Journey of an African Woman. Led by Ireti Doyle, Uzor Osimkpa and Aduke, they told their story of sorrow but also of hope. The womenfolk have a man in the person of Michael Asuelime to thank for this opportunity to air their views on stage. He is the man behind the script, as well as producing and directing the play. Like most human beings, he has an interest in putting out this play; his mother, who lost her husband, was forced to shave her head and go through other nasty things sanc-

tioned by tradition. Countless women in Africa go through the same and even worse rse although no such thing is done to a man when he loses his wife. Indeed, d, there is a lot in the African culture lture and tradidition that ought to be thrown o u t of the w i n d o w. There is also the issue of infidelity, lity, where the man is regarded ded as king when he strays out ut of the matrimonial home but ut the woman is vilified even n when she is only suspected to o have been unfaithful. How about ut the girl child/male child issue? ue? The issues that affect women men are countless and no group is better qualified to speak against the unfair aspect of Afri-

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Critics

Friday, October 5, 2012

Video

THE FILM TAKES THE VIEWER THROUGH THE DAILY LIVES AND STRUGGLES OF THESE WANNABE MUSICIANS It is the story of Armand Diangienda, who founded the orchestra in 1994 after losing his job as a pilot. He is the conductor of the group he named after his grandfather, Simon Kimbangu, who also founded a Christian sect. It is the compelling story of Nathalie Bahati, a flutist and over 200 other musicians as told by the directors Claus Wischmann and Martin Baer. The characters in this film are unstoppable like Bahati, a single mother, who in the film struggles to find a $40 per month apartment to keep little more than a roof over the head of the young son who accompanies her everywhere, including to her rehearsals. But they tackle pieces like Beethove’s Ninth Symphony and Orff ’s Carmina Burana amid their everyday struggles that include bad roads, frequent power outages and insecurity. At the end of the working day, each one of them, most of them amateur musicians who have never

sang or played instruments in their lives, are dead tired but the road must lead to the rehearsal. Most of the instruments they use are copies of the original, which they construct right there in the city. This too is visible. Albert Nlandu Matubanza, the orchestra’s manager, is also in the business of making most of the orchestra’s instruments himself. The film takes the viewer through the daily lives and struggles of these wannabe musicians, how they grapple with and master not just the lyrics but also the music of Beethoven, among pieces from other music greats. Many people will buckle under the weight of what most of them go through in Kinshasa. Agony best describes a day in the life of most of them but sheer joy is what they derive from their musicmaking. This is perhaps why the orchestra has been making music every year in the nearly 25 years that Congo has been in turmoil. The documentary is the story of the orchestra’s most recent major performance and how it came into existence. It may be a film about music but it is also about the people at the centre of the music. It is about Kinshasa and it people. What moves them to look beyond their many troubles and join others like them to achieve such a marvellous feat? Anybody who sees this film that also stars Joseph Masunda Lutete and Albert Nlanzu Matubanza, will get this answers and many more.

on stage can culture and tradition than the one at the receiving end. Coming from the stable of BP Vision Limited, this production is a breath of fresh air in that direction. There was a lot to ‘wine and complain’ about but there was also plenty to dance about. And what better group to do the dance moves than the group, Footprints of David. Perhaps there are those in the audience who would have wondered about the long scene of dance but it was entertaining no doubt. There is no doubt that the play succeeds in the interpretation of the plight, reaction and repercussion of women living on the African continent. But pray, has any man, whether in the middle belt of the country or anywhere in the world, ever offered his woman as ‘kolanut for his guests?’ If that ever happened, it is definitely in the past and should not have been mentioned in this play. What purpose does it serve the play and is the playwright sure of this as a fact? Fact or not, the actors, a mix of young and not so

old women, make everything believable and real. And except for the delay in moving from one scene to the next, which made the play last longer than two hours, the play could not have done better. Many members of the audience that almost filled the Agip Recital Hall of the MUSON Centre that evening will agree that it is an evening that will not be forgotten. No thanks to Africa Magic, Flex Stitches, Jara and Slot, among others, who lend support to the production and the publicity the event got. It is an interesting departure from the norm that recorded less and less sponsorship to stage productions and lack of patronage. But the biggest thanks should go to the cast and crew who made the experience worthwhile.

THE WOMENFOLK HAVE A MAN TO THANK FOR THIS OPPORTUNITY TO AIR THEIR VIEWS ON STAGE

A scene from the video

Elale: More than just music Class Meets Creativity: The Case of IC Omo Allen’s ‘Elale’ video directed by Patrick Elis. JAMES A MUTA

hat can one say about Patrick Elis’ visual interpretation of IC Omo Allen’s Elale (Superstar)?, well, let’s see… The video is cleverly woven around a simple premise: cute guy meets pretty girl, pretty girl blows him off saying: “I don’t roll with regular guys, I only roll with superstars”. Feeling slighted and a bit challenged, the guy is compelled to give her a sneak peek into the lifestyle of a superstar in the making by giving her a scenic, yet beautiful cruise-styled tour of his neighbourhood in an attempt to convince her he’s a superstar – from the streets to the studio, he woos her with what can be deduced to be a modest version the superstar lifestyle. Whether he succeeds with this less-than-subtle, yet, less-than-flamboyant wooing technique is left for the viewer to imagine. And that’s the video. That simple and almost basic; yet delivered with stunning cinematographic creativity, presenting the beautiful skyscape of Lagos with lush romantic idealism. Unlike the video which illustrated the essence of the song with near-zero pretensions. Patrick Elis, the video director scores a huge point with the depiction of IC Omo Allen’s love interest, the video vixen, Yohana as a groupie chick without embellishing her role with profuse nudity or vanity dress-up. The video manages to be sexy, classy, and crispy without being profane or encouraging irresponsible behaviour as has been the norm with a large chunk of videos of this nature coming from Nigeria. The cinematography stands out – shot on a RED Mysterium X and a Canon 5D

THE BEAUTY OF THIS VIDEO IS THAT IT COULD PASS FOR A TOURISM VIDEO FOR THE BEAUTIFUL CITY OF

LAGOS

Mark II, the pictures of the metropolitan cityscape, the rustic convertible vintage Land Rover and the elegant cast are just as crisp as they are engaging with the right dose of sex appeal, as both the artiste and his love interest make for a stunning and attractive on-screen couple. (I’d keep a close eye on those two for a potential off-screen romantic têteà-tête…*wink* *wink*). The beauty of this video is that it could pass for a tourism video for the beautiful city of Lagos, which ironically goes a long way to confirm that indeed, IC Omo Allen (who by the way spends most of his time in Atlanta, Georgia) may be in his right to tout his self-proclaimed position of the Baale of Allen Avenue (a popular neighbourhood in Ikeja, Lagos) – or better yet, it won’t hurt anyone to officially recognise this talented young singer as one of the fast-rising music ambassadors (of his beloved neighbourhood) – one with the social consciousness to project his music and the city that inspires his music in the best possible light. Overall verdict: Vibrant song; cute looking cast; captivating video content. A video you can leave on replay throughout the duration of your lunch break. Mr. Amuta is a Lagos-based writer, poet, publicist and video director.

Inside FCT

Friday, October 5, 2012

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Traffic police at the scene of an accident in Abuja.

Abuja drivers’ recklessness spurs highway carnage • As hair-raising traffic blankets capital city MARCUS FATUNMOLE E MMANUEL O NANI

AND

he increasing spate of accidents on Abuja highways over the past few months has become more disturbing to residents whose lives are under threat in areas with high human traffic and major highways linking the metropolis to its satellite towns. Tales of avoidable accidents cut across the various road networks in the FCT as recklessness of drivers and pervasive ignorance of basic traffic rules have truncated the dreams of hundreds of commuters, traders along highways and other victims who came to the Federal Capital with hopes of a better life It is no longer news to residents that every day, reports of deaths arising from these avoidable accidents emerge even when construction works are still on-going on many of the roads. Last Sunday around evening, about few metres to the headquarters of the Nigerian Immigration Service along the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport road, there was an auto crash that stunned everyone who witnessed

the incident. Inside FCT was on the spot. The driver had lost control of the car just after the Kuje overhead bridge under construction. Like a scene from a movie, the car veered off the highway, flew off ground, somersaulted twice and landed in a deep ditch with its four tyres on the ground. To everyone’s surprise, the lone-passenger (the driver) came out unscratched; as everyone watched him climb out of the deep gully. There was the case of another accident that led to the death of a motorcyclist one Sunday afternoon at Lugbe, Berger office. The unfortunate incident involved a Honda car coming from Gwagwalada into the city. Zooming at high speed, the car uncontrollably rammed into the motorbike operator and killed him instantly. Some causes of road disasters in the city, Inside FCT gathered, include over speeding, making telephone calls while driving, inadequate driving knowledge among others. James Chukwu, who claimed to have rescued victims of accidents in the city twice said: “You know Nigerians always abuse anything meant to do them good. You can see that many of the

WHENEVER I DRIVE, I THINK THE OTHER ROAD USER NEXT TO ME IS AN ANIMAL BECAUSE HE CAN DO ANYTHING major roads in the city are still under construction. They will never listen to any message warning them to drive safely until the unexpected happens and they begin to speak grammar. The fear is that by the time these roads are completed, what would be the fate of everyone? Whenever I drive, I think the other road user next to me is an animal because he can do anything. So, I always remain careful and observant”. Another dimension to accidents in the city is that once any accident happens, the scene is quickly attended to. Officials of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), who are stationed in strategic places around the city, upon receipt of call on the incident, would promptly arrive at the scene for rescue

operation. Within minutes, any car involved in the accident would be towed away. Abuja highways have simply become avenues for some drivers to ‘fly’ if it were possible. Everybody seems to be in a race against time. Yet, there are many cautionary messages advising drivers on highways to drive safely. Some of the messages include: “Drive as if people in the other car were your family”; “Drive safely and arrive safely”; “Speed kills” among others. There was yet another painful disaster that occurred in the city sometimes ago. An old man on a motorbike was killed by a car while trying to cross the highway. Few weeks after, another car rammed into his son, killing him instantly on the same motorbike and at the same spot. Such are the conditions which many families find themselves in the nation’s capital. It is agonising that people leave their homes in the morning for work and some will never return home again. This ugly development, as some analysts have suggested, calls for more action by the Federal Road Safety Commission officials. As the saying goes, a stitch in time saves nine. Meanwhile, Abuja is fast assum-

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Inside FCT

Friday, October 5, 2012

1st October witnesses low key celebration IJEOMA EZEIKE

Gridlock on an Abuja highway.

ing a chaotic status, what with the traffic blanket that has since overwhelmed it. These days, it has become a nightmare to drive in the city with the needless traffic gridlocks occasioned by factors such as impatience and recklessness on the part of motorists, absence of traffic wardens at intersections and other strategic junctions as well as dysfunctional traffic lights, resulting from lack of maintenance culture. A drive through the heart of the city such as Federal Secretariat, Adetokunbo Ademola Crescent, Wuse Market, parts of Maitama, Asokoro, Garki and other choice areas, leaves much to be desired in the area of traffic control and order. The resultant effect is seen in the disorder and avoidable accidents, most of which are fatal. This disorder is exacerbated on Fridays where some of the roads leading to the Abuja Central Mosque are blocked for many hours. The weekly blockade is ostensibly to ensure the security of Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Mohammed Namadi Sambo, who does not fail to attend Friday Jumat services. Without doubt, the Federal Capital Territory Administration, FCDA, must collaborate with the FRSC and the Department of Road Traffic Service (otherwise known as VIO) to restore order on Abuja roads and major streets. Of importance is the need to whip motorists, especially bus drivers, into line. These “outlaws” must be made to understand that being behind the wheels is not a

A LOT HAS GONE WRONG IN ABUJA THAT IT NOW POSES A LOT OF DIFFICULTY TO GET OUR ACTS RIGHT passport for recklessness and disobedience of traffic rules. This point cannot be overemphasised in view of the discovery that most drivers of the “green monsters” are often under the influence of alcohol and other tendencies that give them “Dutch courage”. Speaking with Inside FCT on condition of anonymity, a senior official of the FRSC observed that, “a lot has gone wrong in Abuja that it now poses a lot of difficulty to get our acts right”. According to him, “To begin with, a lot has to be done in the area of enlightenment on the part of the FRSC. Although, we are able and willing, but you know that this cannot be achieved without the release of adequate funds. “Side by side with value re-orientation, the FCDA must ensure that all the dilapidated traffic lights are fixed and traffic wardens deployed to areas where there are no traffic lights”, he maintained. If not for anything, the increasing rate of intra-city mishaps, coupled with near collapse of infrastructure (a case study of street lights), is a testimony of what a mega city should not be.

ince the twin bombings at the Eagle Square that marred the 2010 Independence Day celebration in Abuja, subsequent years have always turned out to be low keyed. The usual colourful ceremony that attracts people from different walks of life has become a mere figment of imaginations. Inside FCT observed that the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) was devoid of the usual fanfare that accompanies every October 1, while security was beefed up at strategic places like the Eagle Square with military helicopters hovering around the city. While movement was low, there was however an improvement unlike last year when people were forced to stay indoors for the fear of unknown. This time around, people were more confident moving from place to place, visiting friends, attending church services and other social activities. The Women Development Centre in the Central Area was not left out; a unique programme was organised for the Nigerian Children’s Parliament by the Federal Government. Children came from their respective states to discuss issues pertaining to their rights and wellbeing and to harmonise their operations across the nation. Many orphans and vulnerable children as well as widows were not left out as many philanthropic organisations visited and empowered them. The hall of the centre was filled to the brim; undeterred by the security challenges, people could be seen trooping to the hall to catch a glimpse of the children in parley. Though the fanfare was relocated to the Aso Rock Villa, to avoid any lapses, all security agencies including paramilitary were engaged to ensure a hitch free cer-

A spattering of kids play at a small park in the city.

WE LACK UNITY, THAT IS WHY THE SECURITY PROBLEM HAS BEEN

OCCURRING; ONCE WE ARE UNITED, THERE WILL BE PEACE emony. Mrs. Chinyere Ezeuto, an office worker encountered while in the city with her family, also confirmed to Inside FCT that the annual Independence ceremony had become a shadow of its past glory. “I could remember when I was in secondary school; then, there was nothing like Boko Haram or anything. We usually celebrated October 1 with passion and respect for our country. I wonder what will be left for the future generation because there is no zeal again”, she mused. “It is supposed to be a day of joy and to pay respect to our past leaders because their labour will not be in vain but there seems to be no interest. People are not motivated and there is hunger in the country too. For me, our 52 years isn’t worth celebrating”, Ezeuto said. From a different point of view, Mr. Nicolas Olatunji said there was no country that didn’t have its negative aspect, “although we are witnessing some security problems, I believe that we will get over it soon. Many countries witness this kind of problem. We lack unity that is why the security problem has been occurring; once we are united, there will be peace. “I believe our country will reach 100 years, that is why we should make effort to strive for peace so that we will have a good image and have tangible achievements to show our future generation”, he said.

PHOTOS: ROTIMI OSASONA

Arty News

Friday, October 5, 2012

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Jazz music boosted with Pleasant Surprise NGOZI EMEDOLIBE

azz musician, Ayo Awe Joseph, is out another album after three years of intensive studio work. Titled Pleasant Surprises, the album is ‘deeply jazz’ and laced with gospel lyrics. According to Awe Joseph, the album is his “little contribution to the Nigerian goodwill project. I believe that we are all stakeholders. Being able to produce good music i s my

own contribution because Nigerian artistes are projecting the image of the country positively. I think I’ve done very well in this genre of music even as Nigerians hardly appreciate jazz. They forget that jazz is music, that can last for eternity and its listeners are very critical and sophisticated”. Produced by Wole Olu, Pleasant Surprises is coming seven years after Joseph’s first work, What a Friend, music released in 2004. After studying musi Muat the Nigerian Army School of Mu enable sic, Joseph retired in 1992 to enabl founding him pursue a solo career. A foundin Band, member of The Brass Serpent Band he an afro/gospel band in the 90s, h the was also the director of music at th Redeemed Christian Church of God Go (RCCG), Rose of Sharon Parish iin the late 90s and later formed his own ow band, “Jazz Epistle” in 1999 with Steve Stev Keyz as pianist. blessed Joseph is married and is blesse nuwith two children and has been on nu merous road shows at such places iin FesLagos as Olde English Piano Bar, Fe Lord’s tac Town; The Lord Maryland; Club, Maryland Wo o d h o u s e , TerSurulere; Te Burger, ris Burge Surulere; Planet 444, IsVictoria I land and Golden Golde Gate, Ikoyi.

Joseph

New Nigerian Diva enters Season 2 NGOZI E MEDOLIBE

fter a successful maiden edition at Owerri, Imo State capital, the organisers of New Nigerian Diva are set for a second season. The three – in – one event (reality show, beauty pageant and talent hunt) is positioned to discover and nurture talents inherent in young female Nigerians in the areas of acting, modelling and singing. According to the Executive Producer of the show,, who is also the CEO of

Eboh

Viewtrend Entertainment Limited, Mr. Dozie Eboh, this year’s edition promises to be more exciting and extremely engaging. He also stated that the stakes are higher this time as the star prize is a plot of land in Lagos State (sponsored by Prestige Virtue Court and publishers of Royalty International magazine), modelling contracts, a return ticket to a foreign country of choice and recording contracts. “We have learnt from the past edition and that will help us have a better package in 2012. The prizes are ready to be won and young women who have what it takes, need to leverage on this platform to actualise their dreams of being in show business. The winners of the maiden edition all took part in our movie which will be released in a couple of weeks. The movie is the first ‘all-female character’ movie. Everyone who acted in the film are women. That is a movie that was designed to make a lasting statement”. Judging by the challenges and the overall success of the maiden edition which had Miss Vanessa Mong beating fourteen other finalists to emerge the first New Nigerian Diva, Dozie stated that preparations are in top gear to have zonal auditions; South–South, South–East, North and South–West to herald the event this year.

Rising act, 2Kay in 1st ever U.K gig A DENRELE NIYI

ort Harcourt-based act and Grafton records signee, Mr. 2Kay is set to make his first ever stage appearance at the annual Nigerian Carnival U.K event! Nigerian carnival is an annual event held in London to celebrate the cultural heritage of Nigeria by Nigerians in the Diaspora. 2Kay will perform alongside other Nigerian acts like Rayce, Danny Young and others. The event, which is in its 4th year, is a family oriented event normally attended by Nigerians from all parts of the United Kingdom. The event will hold on the 20th of October, 2012

at the Kennington Park, Kennington Park road, London. On his return, the “Waterside Boy” hit maker has been billed to perform in five major cities in Nigeria. 2Kay is taking his career to the next level as he is set to unveil his new band, named the “Oil City Band”. The talented artiste has spent the last part of the year developing his art of performing live with his band. The “Oil City Band” will make its debut appearance on Saturday, October 6 at the Silverbird Lounge in Abonema Wharf Road, Port Harcourt at 8.00 p.m. There will also be guest appearances by Chidinma Ekile, Ghanaian female act, Becca and veteran rapper, Illbliss.

Nigeria’s Akinmade discovers S’Africa for National Geographic Channel ADENRELE NIYI

igerian-born award-winning photographer, Lola Akinmade-Åkerström is one of the three National Geographic Channel photographers currently in South Africa for the shooting and filming of “Through the Lens” campaign, a collaborative production of National Geographic Channels (NGC) International and South African Tourism. The other two photographers who would be documenting the landscape, people and sights of S’Africa are Stephen Alvarez, a photojournalist from Sewanee, Tennessee, USA who has dedicated his life to producing ng global stories about exploration, conservation, rvation, culture and religion. Heather Perry, erry, a graduate of Marine Biology and Underwater Photography, makes up the e threesome on this NGC assignment. The Sweden-based Åkerström, a fiercely passionate and compassionate photographer, has appeared red in publications such as National Geographic Traveller, Forbes, Vogue,, Travel + Leisure and New York Times, mes, documenting projects in Nicaragua, Sweden, and Cambodia. NGC today sets out to film three remarkable short films, in which some of the finest inest National Geographic phohotographers capture and d portray the beauty of South Africa and the warm nature of its people. The ‘Through Akinmade

the Lens’ campaign aims to take the viewer on a journey, delving into three of South Africa’s most landmark destinations; Cape Town, Drakensburg and Durban, discovering some of the most breath-taking scenery on earth. Following the shoot, NGC will create three short content pieces which will air on NGC around the globe in January 2013. Roshene Singh, Chief Marketing Officer, South African Tourism adds “We at South African Tourism have had a long-standing relationship with National Geographic for many years now, culminating in us winning the M&M Global Award for Nation. ‘Through the Lens’ is another amazing campaign, in which the world’s premier photographers are capturing our destination, its people and its spirit in a manner that’s unparalleled and unique”.

Yaum al-Jumu’ah, Dhul Qaddah 21, 1433AH Friday, October 5, 2012

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Call to Worship

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

The magnificent mosque of Amalty

lmaty was the capital of the Kazakh SSR from 1929 to 1991 and of independent Kazakhstan from 1991 to 1997. Despite losing its status as the capital to Astana in 1997, Almaty remains the major commercial and cultural centre of Kazakhstan. The city is located in a mountainous area of southern Kazakhstan, near the border with Kyrgyzstan. Religion in Kazakhstan is about 70% Muslim by head of population, with Christianity taking more or less the other 30%. As you would expect from these statistics, the Central Mosque is a magnificent building. The Central Mosque of Almaty is one of the biggest mosques in Kazakhstan (can host 7000 people). It was built on the site of an old mosque, which functioned since 1890. The construction of the new mosque began in 1993 under the guidance of two Kazakh architects, Baimagambetov and Sharpiyev and was completed in 1999. In 2000, Turkish calligraphy masters decorated the large dome with verses from the Qur’an. The blue dome of the mosque has a diameter of 20 meters and a height of 36 meters. The height of the big minaret is 47 meters. The Mosque of Almaty is an example of Timurid architecture. The style is largely derived from Persian architecture. Axial symmetry is a characteristic of all major Timurid structures.

adhrat Khalifatul Masih said that when he came for Friday Prayers last week, he saw a large number of reporters had gathered. Upon inquiring, he was told that they had come to observe the Ahmadis’ response in light of the Muslim reaction to the hurtful film in the USA. Hadhrat Khalifatul Masih replied that his sermon was going to be on the same subject and he would give a discourse on what the response should be. The enraged reaction of the Muslims [to the film] was, in a way, right although in places it had manifested wrongly. The station that we hold the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) in our hearts cannot be perceived by a worldly person. That is why they have no insight into the deep hurt it has caused us. The New Zealand reporter stressed and repeatedly mentioned that Hadhrat Khalifatul Masih had spoken severely in his sermon

Adegbite: We have lost an illustrious son of Africa –Prof Oloyede 29

Magnificent mosque of Amalty

Every Friday with

Khalifatul

Ahmadiyya

Promote the true character of The Prophet (saw) and had said that all these people would go to Hell. He was replied that people who acted in this manner towards the beloveds of God and did it persistently, mocking and deriding them, then God’s decree also

comes to pass and He chastises them. The reporter did not say anything to this, but appeared somewhat frightened. His report was broadcast on New Zealand national TV. It was the first time that a Jama’at news

Nigeria @ 52: Let’s rationalise cost of governance –Sheikh Ahmad 29

item was broadcast on New Zealand national TV and the local Jama’at was quite pleased about this introduction. In the news item, the words of the English translator of the sermon regarding ‘these people would go to Hell’ were also included. In isolation and out of context this phrase could have had a negative effect. Unlike other non-Muslim reporters it was fair of this reporter, that Hadhrat Khalifatul Masih’s own words, spoken during the interview saying that we do not approve of violent protests and rioting and an Ahmadi Muslim would never be seen in a disorderly act, were also included in the item. The report also said that Ahmadis were a minority Muslim community and were persecuted by Muslims and said that it remained to be seen what effect, if any, the words of their Khalifa would have on other Muslims apart from the Ahmadis. The report also featured CONTINUED ON PAGE 30

…And He Died 28

Call to Worship

he days of man in this world are definitely numbered. This he is aware but his actions depict otherwise. He sleeps and wakes but fails to see it as the two sides of life – living and dying. From the day the first man came to this world, people have never stopped dying and there is nothing anybody can do about that. The sojourn of man towards his death commences from birth. As he grows older, he gets nearer to his grave. He may not live up to sixty years before he answers death’s summon. It puts all on equal footing. Everything that lives must die. The male and female, the old and the young, believer and the unbeliever, the Muslim and the nonMuslim, the righteous and the unrighteous; the knowledgeable and the ignorant, the rich and the poor, the strong and the weak, the healthy and the sick, the president and the citizen, the oppressor and the oppressed are all equal before death. It was the turn of Alhaj (Dr) Abdul Lateef Adegbite last week to return to the earth – the real interim home of every man. People have not stopped lamenting his death and as usual talking of his great virtues to the extent of their knowledge. Here is a man who lived for what he believed. Here is a man who struggled against his old age to attend to the concern of the Muslim Ummah and the nation in general.

Yaum al-Jumu’ah, Dhul Qaddah 21, 1433AH Friday, October 5, 2012

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…And He Died THE FACT THAT DEATH

CAN COME AT ANY TIME

- IT DOES NOT MATTER

WHETHER ONE IS FLOWN ABROAD FOR TREATMENT IN THE BEST HOSPITALS -

IS ENOUGH TO PUT EVERY MAN ON CAUTION Here is a man who is consistent in his positions. Here is a man who actually united the youths, the old and the nation. But now when it was time for him to part, no mortal could stop death from its divine action. May Allah have mercy on him and grant him al-jannah firdaws. While it is natural to miss and lament the dead, it is the living that should actually learn and retrace his steps. But we are too arrogant to learn the reality that we shall leave this world one day and account for all our deeds. The fact that death can come at any time - it does not matter whether one is flown abroad for treatment in the best hospitals - is enough to put every man on cau-

tion. Let us remember that we shall all remain standstill on the Judgment Day until we have been questioned on how we have spent our lives, utilized our knowledge, got and spent our wealth. Let us remember, this world is ephemeral. Let us all remember that nothing is as certain as death. We may dwell in this world for years, but death remains inevitable. The poor may not get rich, the oppressed may not get strength, the barren may not give birth, but all shall drink from the cup of death. Let our religious and political leaders always remember that they will die one day. This consciousness is enough to nip corruption in the bud. Let them remember the world of no return. They should know that there is consequence for every action of theirs before Allah on the Great Day of judgment. When a man dies, he will part from his beloved wives, children, family, friends and political associates. He will bid adieu to this world and proceed to that of loneliness in the grave. He will leave all wealth behind for others to inherit. He will travel with his deeds to the grave. Today he eats what he likes but a time is coming when his body will be laid to rest or suffer in the grave. Then, creatures like earthworm, maggots

and the like will feed on him. His body will decay under the earth while his soul is either tortured or made to enjoy. Today man drives his cars to anywhere but that time is coming when he will be carried (or driven) in mat or coffin to his grave. All spending on caskets and the like are nothing bur wastages. Today, man wears all kinds of clothes but that time is coming when he will be wrapped loincloth and buried in the grave. If only man can think of this reality, he will not engage in any evil not to talk of doing it to others. Every man’s death is the greatest and the surest reality in life but he believes more in mirages of life. We must realize that, “The best of the religions is the faith of Ibrahim. The best of the ways is the path of the Prophets. The greatest blindness is going astray after guidance. Dr. Zafaran is the Director, Vanguards Academy

Dr Abdul Lateef Adegbite: Eclipse of the luminous moon

eath is, perhaps, the only occurrence whose choice of victim is beyond the notion of prejudice. It does not consider the abundance of wealth, religious relevance, intellectual value and the social status of its victims; neither does it strike down its victim for his lack of wealth or religious devotions. It comes, like an intruder, strikes and throws a supposedly happy community into mourning; leaving grief, tears of sorrow and dashed dreams in its wake. If death were considerate, Dr Abdul Lateef Oladimeji Adegbite wouldn’t have been its right choice at this trying moment of the Nigerian Muslim Ummah. But the occurrence of anyone’s death is a mere phenomenon, which is beyond the decision of even the angel of death. It is indeed by Allah’s decree that any dying soul drops out of the surface of the earth. It is also by His permission that the soul perishes on a certain day, in a particular land and manner. It is therefore unpardonable that anybody should ask “why” with respect to the death of Dr Abdul Adegbite. After all, from Allah we come and to Him is our return. We are thus free from blaming Allah for extinguishing the most luminous of our guiding lamps. We do not question His decision for eclipsing our Deen-adorned beautiful moon; but in pain and faith we endure His decree. For the Muslims, no loss could be more painful than this demise. Dr Adegbite was perhaps the greatest Islamist in the contemporary Nigeria. Though of little skill in the knowledge of Arabic, he ranked above many notable scholars of Islam whose eloquence in Arabic language deceptively dazzled the masses. His rays of light shone beyond the Southwest Nigeria where he was born as he struggled, right from his youth days, to partake in every effort that could make Muslims relevant in the country. Adegbite,

with four other secondary students among his class mates, founded the Muslim Students’ Society of Nigeria in 1954. Imagine the dream of that secondary school boy, perhaps as a teenager, metamorphosing into a virile ideological Islamic movement today, from which several other movement-oriented groups and leaders have emerged. Imagine our schools without the MSSN. Look in your surrounding and see if that reputable Muslim leader at the helm is not a trained product of this potentially great organization. I have always marveled at Adegite’s sense of mission. I wonder how ecstatic he would feel, during his earthly sojourn, watching MSSN grow into a mother of all Islamic organizations in Nigeria. Of course, the leadership of Islamic Study Group (ISGON) in Lagos; El-Zakzaky’s Islamic movement in the North; Nasfat prayer group across the country; the Muslim Congress in the South-west; Al-Usra Society in Porthacourt; Da’wah Front in Abeokuta; the Companion brothers in Lagos and the Islamic movement in Ilorin were among those trained by MSSN. Ideological diversity is the beauty of all these organizations. Each group is known for its unique methodology and principle of propagating Islam which does not hinder their sense of cooperation, when necessary, in the pursuit of the common good. Today, what makes the Muslim voice heard is the occasional collective agitation of these groups each time the Ummah is challenged. Each stands in defence of Islam and clamours for the Muslim’s right, using the least controversial methodology that is peculiar to it. Dr Adegbite was indeed a bridge builder per excellence. His name was in fact synonymous with reconciliation in all respects. His person filled the spacious gap of occasional misunderstanding between the Muslim youths and their

IF DEATH WERE CONSIDERATE, DR ABDUL LATEEF OLADIMEJI ADEGBITE WOULDN’T HAVE BEEN ITS RIGHT CHOICE AT THIS TRYING MOMENT OF THE

NIGERIAN MUSLIM UMMAH elders in the South-west; his moderate approach to religious issues, especially of national interest, creates a better understanding between the Muslims and their Christian counterparts; his least resisted methodology grants him the audience and respect of both the radical and moderate Muslims. Even though a devout Muslim, the royal authority of his birth place in Egba land accorded him a place of honour in the palace. As the Seriki of Egba land, he was one of the high chiefs of the Alake. But this honour, unlike others, was not only untainted with paganism; it was equally as prestigious as that of a king. Who does not know that Seriki, as a title, connotes a king in a predominantly Muslim community? The Seriki of Egba land represents the interest of all Egba Muslims in Alake’s palace, which is another kind of bridge-building in an African traditional environment. The Nigerian Supreme council for Islamic Affair, under the Sultan of Sokoto, is of course the official mouth-piece of the Nigerian Muslim Ummah; and few are those who know that, like MSSN, it was another brain child of Dr Abdul Lateef Adegbite. Many Muslims, as well as non Muslims, could only identify him as the secretary General; but Adegbite it

was who conceived the idea and nurtured it administratively. In his capacity as the secretary general, he was not only vocal in protecting the values and ideals of Islam (such as his role during the Sharia saga and the miss world beauty contest), he had also remained the bridge builder between the South west Muslims and their brothers in the North. Gone are the days when the Southern Muslims were always suspicious of their Northern brothers and also when the Northern Muslims would hardly pray behind their brothers from the southwest fondly accused of both moral and religious infidelity. Indeed, Adegbite’s interaction with the northern emirates, in the course of discharging his duty as the secretary general, must have arrested that tension as the Muslim leadership from the north of Nigeria came to realize that Yoruba Muslims are, after all, as loyal to Allah and righteous in their religious commitment as the northern Muslims do claim to be, judging with the character of the secretary general. It is therefore not an over statement to declare that the Nigerian Muslim Ummah is bereaved with this eclipse of the luminous moon? Of course, the South-west Muslims, in particular, are shut out of that illuminating light that had always guided their path in moments of darkness. In that region, Adegbite’s glorious but painful exit marks the commencement of the end of his own generation of reputable Muslim leaders who never betrayed Islam; but – I am afraid - with the blurred vision of the succeeding generation, it may be difficult to replicate that character - of humaneness, integrity, sagacity and unapologetic approach to critical issues – that set Adegbite ahead of his contemporaries. Abu Mazeedatil Khayr Abdur Rauf Bn Sa’eed is the Managing Direcor, De Minaret International, Abuja.

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Friday, October 5, 2012

Call to Worship

Yaum al-Jumu’ah, Dhul Qaddah 21, 1433AH

Adegbite: We have lost an illustrious son of Africa –Prof Oloyede LATEEFAH IBRAHIMANIMASHAUN

he National Coordinator of Nigeria Inter Religious Council (NIREC) and late Dr Abdul Lateef Adegbite’s deputy at the National Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) has said that Africa, as a whole, has lost a rare gem that has outstanding character. In his condolence message, Prof Ishaq Oloyede stated that the late Adegbite was an academician, an erudite scholar, a seasoned lawyer, a political figure, a religious leader and founder

of many Islamic societies and groups, the religious community. He said Adegbite’s death leaves a vacuum which signifies loss of a rare man who lived a life of devotion and piety. This was a statement of one out of the thousands of individuals and Islamic organisations that came to pay glowing tribute to the late Dr AbdulLateef Adegbite as they thronged the venue of his janazah, burial and Fidau prayer held in Abeokuta and Lagos respectively. The groups include Nigeria Inter Religious Council, (NIREC), Muslim Students’

Society of Nigeria, (MSSN), Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC), Muslim Media Practitioners of Nigeria (MMPN), National Council of Muslim Youths Organisations (NACOMYO) among other Islamic scholars. Adegbite, who was until his death last Friday, the Secretary-General, Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) died in Lagos at the age of 79. The groups, in their various condolence messages, described him as an exemplary leader and a lover of peace whose death had created a vacuum in the community. In his message, Professor

Dawudu Noibi, Executive Secretary of Muslim Ummah in the South, urged people always to remember that death is inevitable. He said: “when death comes when it would come, the only thing that would be left with us is our good deeds while on this planet. “Whatever good or bad that anyone does in life will be recorded in his favour in Aljanat”. Former Lagos governor and ACN leader, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu said: “He died on a great day – Friday and his Fidau is holding today – when Nigerians are marking the 52nd anniversary Independence Day. It is extremely instructive. He

was truly, a bridge-builder and fearless fighter of his religion. “He related with the Christians, quoting copiously from the Bible to preach tolerance. No doubt, he died well because he lived well. You cannot fault him on uprightness – he says things as he sees it and his judgments were also sound.” Meanwhile, the former Deputy Governor of Lagos state, Alhaja Okuunu described Adegbite as a man with good listening hears and good servant of Allah. “He nurtured many of us; as women, he was always there for us. He was extremely accommodating,

caring and loving. I do not know anybody who did so much for the society like the late Dr Adegbite”, she said. In his tribute, national President of the University Muslim Graduates Association (UNIFEMGA), Dr Abdulwahab Egbewole, said Adegbite’s death should be a lesson that ``we need to do our best to serve Allah and leave our footprints in all the areas we may find ourselves’’. He described the late leader as ``a consummate administrator, committed academic, focused religious leader, concerned community leader and a bridge builder’’.

... His death came at a critical point’ L ATEEFAH IBRAHIMANIMASHAUN

J Speaker, House of Reps, Aminu Tambuwal signing the condolence register at the residence of late Dr. Abdulateef Adegbite in Abeokuta recently.

Ahmaddiyya women conference on the way LATEEFAH IBRAHIM-ANIMASHAUN

he Ahmaddiyya women group, Lajnal Imaillah, -women servant of Allah in Nigeria will hold its 36th annual convention in Abeokuta Ogun state between Friday, October 12th and 14th. The conference which will feature Quranic competition, quiz, sports, cooking events, handicraft, exhibition and free medical camp among others holds at Salawu Abiola Comprehensive High School, Osiele . According to the spokesperson of the women group, Mrs. Adeoye, the Islamic event is meant to discuss issues of common interest among women in Nigeria and it will contribute meaningfully to the socio- economic and political development on Nigeria.

Nigeria @ 52: Let’s rationalise cost of governance –Sheikh Ahmad

...Says Hajj Row issue will be resolved soon MURITALA AYINLA

s Nigeria celebrates her 52nd independence anniversary, the National Missioner of Ansar-UdDeen Society of Nigeria, Sheikh AbdulRahaman Ahmad has called on leaders to reduce the cost of governance. Sheikh Ahmad, who spoke at a special prayer session held in Lagos state secretariat Mosque in commemoration of Nigeria’s 52nd independence said all challenges confronting the nation would be overcome if Nigerian leaders reduce the cost of governance since the huge cost of governance has not yielded any positive result. He said: “The cost of

governance is too exorbitant and unjustifiable, after all it is not giving us good governance. Let us do something that will free our resources. Let’s rationalise the cost of governance, it is too high. This is not acceptable at all and there must be a review.” He charged Nigerians to be positive about the country and believe in the Nigerian project, saying it does anyone no good to keep condemning the leaders. “We are all in it together and we have to salvage this country together. As people, we are going through one of the most turbulent periods in our history. Of course it is characteristic of countries that have attained greatness. This a trial for us as people and country.” On the imminent dip-

lomatic row between Nigeria and Saudi Arabia over continuous deportation of intending Nigerian pilgrims, the renowned cleric said that the lingering diplomatic row will be resolved soon. He described the row as routine, adding that contrary to the speculation that the issue will degenerate into diplomatic brawl between the two nations, the matter would soon be amicably resolved. He added:” I think the issue is routine and I believe it’s going to be resolved. In all fairness, there has been a requirement of the Saudi Authorities for the people intending to perform Hajj or Umrah that a woman must be accompanied. It’s been there maybe there was mix up somewhere and I believe it’s going to be resolved”

ama’at Nasril Islam (JNI) under the leadership of His Eminence, the Sultan of Sokoto and President-General, , Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, has expressed condolence to the families of late Abdul Lateef Adegbite and to Muslims and Nigerians in general over his death which came at a time when he is most needed. This was contained in a press statement signed by the Secretary General of Jama’at Nasril Islam, Dr. Khalid Abubakar Aliyu. The body stated that the death of the great Islamic icon will be a great loss to Nigeria and the Muslim community. ”We received with faith the death of Dr. Abdullateef Adegbite, the SecretaryGeneral, Nigerian Supreme

Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), indeed his death came at this critical moment of need, but we take our solace in Allah, the Most High, for the opportunity given him to serve His cause unrelently”, he said. He said Dr. Adegbite was upright, fearless, committed and an accomplished Islamic worker and a lawyer of high pedigree and that it was on record that he was the pioneer National President of the Muslim Students’ Society of Nigeria (MSSN). “Our condolence goes to his family, the people of Egba land, Ogun State Government, members of staff, NSCIA and the entire Muslim Ummah”. “It is our prayer that Allah’s mercy, forgiveness, compassion will be with him and his shortcomings be overlooked by Allah and may He grant him Aljannatul Firdaus to be his final abode”.

L-R Sheik Abdul Rahman Ahmad , the National Missioner of Ansar-ud-deen and the National President, Alh Lateef Femi Okunnu at the 40th year commemoration of late Mustapha Ekemode’s death.

Call to Worship

Yaum al-Jumu’ah, Dhul Qaddah 21, 1433AH Friday, October 5, 2012

L-R:Guet lecturer, Alhaji Abdul Azeez Alatoye; Naib Amir, Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at Nigeria, South East, Dr. Abdul Ganiyyu Enahoro; General Secretary, Mr. Raji Dauda; Sadr. Majlis Ansarullah, Alhaji Mikail Odukoya; Principal Jamia School, Maulana Z T Ayyuba, Sadr. Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at Rebulic of Benin, Alhaji Tokpo Maliek and Qaid Ummini, Pa Raji Sahibu. During the National Ijtema in Ilaro, Ogun State recently.

Amir, Ahmadiyya Mulism Jamaát, Dr. Mashhud Aderenle-Fashola presenting a certificate to Hafis Mohammed Tahru Raji, one of the graduands in Ilaro recently.

L-R: Member of Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at Nigeria, Chairman, Yewa South Local Government, Hon. Alh. Sefiu Odebiyi; and Alhaji Mikail Odukoya during the Ijtema.

Dr. Mashhud Aderenle-Fashola and another graduand, Hafis Abdul Quyyum Opayemi at the event.

How to make Nigeria a great nation

Former Lagos state Governor, Alh. Abdlateef Kayode Jakande and a guest at the 40th year commemoration of late Mustapha Ekemode’s death.

Promote the true character of The Prophet (saw) CONTINUED FROM PAGE 27 footage of violent protests and maulwis raising slogans. Through this report, the true message of Islam reached New Zealand and other countries via their websites. Even if we had tried, we could not have conveyed the message on this scale. The New Zealand Jama’at should now try and take this message all over. Similarly, the message would have been heard in countries around New Zealand. They should try and plan extensive programmes regarding the blessed life of the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him). The Newsnight reporter present said that he had seen the film and there was nothing in it to merit the reaction. He also said that the Friday sermon was also quite detailed on the subject and in places harsh words were used to refute what was simply

humour. Such is the state of their morals. Hadhrat Khalifatul Masih told him that he did not know how he had viewed the film and what his standard was, but the love and reverence that Muslims had for the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) could not be understood by him. Hadhrat Khalifatul Masih told him that although he had not seen the film, but one or two things that someone who had seen the film had related to him were unbearable and in light of them, Hadhrat Khalifatul Masih could not possibly dare see the film. He said his blood boiled by merely listening about them. Hadhrat Khalifatul Masih asked him that if someone verbally abused his father and said vulgar things about him, what would his reaction be? He was told that the station of the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) was much higher than this for Muslims.

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igeria is our country and we have no other one country to call ours except Nigeria. It is part of Islamic injunctions to love one’s country because it shall be counted as part of one’s belief. It will be an understatement to say that Nigeria, as it is today, is in a very sorry state but surely, there is a way out of this logjam. First and foremost, there is both leadership and followership problems. However, this write up will delve on how leaders can make this country a great nation. Leadership is a quality which cannot be acquired by any person from the other, but it can be acquired by self-determination of a person. Leadership can best be called the personality of the very highest abilitywhether in ruling, thinking, imagining, innovation, warring, or religious influencing. There are many verses in the holy Quran that talks about leadership. Some of them are Quran chapter 3, verse 159; chapter 38, verse 26 and chapter 53, verses 3-4. The above stated chapters talk about qualities and expectations from our leaders and when they are strictly adhered to based on Allah’s injunctions, our country shall be a great nation. The attributes of a leader are many, but few are to be discussed here. Firstly, a leader must have fear of Allah in his mind and ensure that this becomes a guiding principle in all his actions. He must have self control over his dealings. The man who can’t control himself can never control others. Further to this, without a sense of fairness and justice, no leader can command and retain the respect of his followers. Also, a leader has to be firm in decision making. For example, a leader who wavers in his decisions shows that he is not sure of himself and cannot lead others successfully. A successful leader must plan his work

and work his plan. A leader who moves by guesswork, without practical, definite plans is comparable to a ship without a rudder. Sooner or later, he will land on the rocks. Equally, leadership calls for respect. A person without a good and pleasing personality will not be respected by his followers for a very long time. This is an indication that any successful leader must sympathise with his followers in all of their conditions. Moreover, he must understand them and their problems. The person who wants to be a leader must be ready to take responsibility alongside because responsibility and power go together. A leader is assumed to be responsible for the mistakes and the shortcomings of his followers. If he tries to shift the responsibility, then he is not fit to be called a leader. Good co-operation and co-ordination should be a watchword of any leader because a leader needs to understand and apply the principles of co-operative efforts and be able to induce his followers to do similar things. It must be noted that leadership calls for power, and power calls for co-operation. Finally, a good leader must be faithful to his group members and activities. This, in turn will result in an atmosphere of assurance among the followers. Having faith in self abilities and the world around him/ her the leader gains inspiration and also inspires others in the process. In conclusion, if our leaders imbibe the above stated attributes, our country will be great again. Sheikh Abdul Ganniyy Umar Arikunkewu is the Founder/National Chief Missioner of Jubatu Rohfatu Llahi Islamic Society Of Nigeria (JUBFAT)

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Mirror Mongers

Friday, October 5, 2012

Feud at high places?

here seems to be something about Presidents in Nigeria and their Speakers. On many occasions during the years of Chief Olusegun Obasanjo as President, the executive and legislative arms were on a war path as if they were battling for superiority. Now, President Jonathan appears to be encountering the same thing, judging from what has been going on between the Presidency and the House of

Tambuwal

Representatives, which came to a climax on Monday during the official ceremony to mark Nigeria’s 52nd anniversary. Speaker Aminu Tambuwal was conspicuously absent during the event after announcing a break to ‘enable members pursue their oversight functions’, when the President had expressed his intention to present his 2013 budget to the House. Of course, tongues are already wagging about Hon. Tambuwal’s absence. Some of his aides are saying he was in Lagos to attend to some ‘national issues’ after paying a condolence visit to the family of the late Alhaji Lateef Adegbite, Secretary General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, who passed on a few days ago. But that has not stopped people from wondering what could be more ‘national’ for the Speaker of the House of Representatives than the celebration of the nation’s Independence Anniversary on October 1.

Million naira dinner that never was

W peter obi

Peter Obi’s ‘carrot and the stick’ game

hile Anambra State is getting set for a countdown towards having a new governor, the buzz is that Governor Peter Obi is making everyone interested in taking over from him to salivate. With over 15 people on the queue to replace Peter Obi, what makes his case very peculiar is the fact that he is quite familiar with all of them jostling for the position and has thus been lending his support to all on individual basis. The development is making many of the aspirants confused, considering that he is seen as a big influence on who will take over from him. What particularly makes Obi’s game intriguing is the revelation in some quarters that he is as PDP as he is APGA.

hen the news filtered in that the mother of all dinners, tagged ‘Oil and Gas Dinner and Gala’ would be holding on September 29, Nigerians screamed after reading that tables would go for as much as N300million! In fact, someone who does not have N10million would not even get in as that is the least amount for a seat. But September 29 has come and gone, and that dinner, which boasted of having all the big guns in Nigeria in honour of President Goodluck Jonathan, did not hold. Many things made the whole arrangement a little bit scary. The group organising the event calls itself Josh Show Enterprises and the poster advertising the event did not look like something worth N10,000. This is reminiscent of the biggest film project in Nigeria, Eagle Combat, which never took off.

Let’s talk about sex (on radio)!

es, sex sells. And you may not need to read only Playboy to understand this, because it is evident from the music videos as well as commercials that are highly rated on TV. Interestingly, one radio station is cashing in on the frenzy. With over 24 radio stations serving the Lagos metropolis alone, it is understandable that some radio houses need to do something extraordinary to

burrow their way to the top. One popular FM station in Lagos, Nigeria Info FM, sure knows how to do this game and listeners are swarming to listen in on the show which is called The Red Light Zone. The show has become so popular that ‘real men and women’ now tune in every midnight to learn tips on how to improve their sex lives. But the discussions on-air

ONE-SECOND Q&A

are also rubbing off negatively on another section of the society. Once in a while, the pious people would call in to complain about the programme and what the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) is doing to curb the flow of sex on air. They are complaining that with the bandwagon syndrome in Nigeria, the whole air waves would soon be suffusing with sex jibes as a way of attracting listeners.

The ‘million naira’ poster

AKIN OYEBODE

While President Goodluck Jonathan was addressing the United Nations last week, he reassured that Nigeria would never renege on any of the treaties she was signatory to as agitations continue for Nigeria to renege on her position on Bakassi. Professor of International Law, Akin Oyebode reacts to the issue: Professor Wole Soyinka said the people of Bakassi should have been consulted before the decision to cede Bakassi to Cameroun. What do you make of the comment?

You know it was the late Chief M.K.O Abiola who used to say that you cannot shave a man’s head in his absence. So definitely, the people concerned wear the shoes and they know where the shoes pinch. Trying to play Hamlet without the Prince of Denmark, I think is untoward. Professor Soyinka, if I recall correctly, did not say whether or not Nigeria owned the Peninsula. In fact, he believes that our claim to the Peninsula was tenuous at the very best; but despite that, he believes that the people who live in the area ought to have been consulted, which I completely agree with. You know in International Law, we speak of the rights of the people to self determination. That implies that the people have the right to exercise their options in terms of the structure of their organs, in terms of ownership of their resources and in terms of their wellbeing and their social arrangements.

Escape

The Coca Cola beat box at the Olympic Park.

Friday, October 5, 2012

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PHOTOS: Yemi Olus

London, where sports mixed with history

First time traveller to London, YEMI OLUS, relives the sight and sound of the ancient city after an unforgettable experience during the 2012 summer Paralympics.

he summer Paralympics is synonymous to an exceptional display by physically and mentally challenged men and women from over 250 countries in the world united in a common quest to set aside their disabilities in order to make their countries proud. Over the years, the competition has been regarded as second best when placed side by side the Olympics which is looked upon as the biggest sporting fiesta on the globe. However for Britain, the host country of the London 2012 Games, it was a time to celebrate the courage of these men and women who have braved all odds to give their lives a meaning. It was also a time for the hosts to showcase the best of their heritage and for citizens and visitors alike to let their hair down and just flow with the spirit of the games while taking time to savour the attractions specifically put in place for the event. As a first time traveller to the United Kingdom, I had concerned myself with little else other than making enquiries about the weather, exchange rate of the pound to the naira, as well as the venue of the Olympics Stadium. This was a deliberate ploy to keep my mind open to all that was to unfold in the days after my arrival in London. I had been airborne for almost six hours aboard an Air Nigeria midnight flight from Lagos to London and as the pilot announced that the aircraft would begin its descent to Gatwick Airport, I was unsure of what to expect. I and other passengers alighted from the aircraft and began our walk to the arrival terminal. I had assumed that it would take just a few minutes to get to our destination but it took almost 15 minutes to get to the Border Agency where our passports and landing cards were to be checked. Thankfully I was just with my hand bag but a much

older fellow traveller who had a sizeable hand luggage while trying to catch her breath, grumbled at the ‘insensitivity’ of the hosts who had to take already tired and disgruntled passengers through this gruelling check, as they called the exercise. Little did I know that this was just a fore taste of the things to come. Getting to the queue at the UK Border Agency, the first thing that struck me was the high value placed on nursing mothers and toddlers. Families that belonged to this category were immediately ushered away from the queue and led directly to any official who was not engaged. The officers looked immaculate in their uniforms and seemed to be enjoying their jobs. They were business-like but courteous and a couple of them smiled and even laughed while engaging the travellers in conversation. Their questions were straight to the point: are you a first time visitor? What was the purpose of visit, length of stay and so on? When it got to my turn, the officer scanned my passport and documents, asked some questions and said she needed to verify something with her superior. There was a bit of drama when she and another officer tried to get my fingerprints but the machine kept rejecting them. After a while, the machine ‘behaved’ and my prints were taken. Both officers apologised after my ordeal, blaming poor network for the delay. I heaved a sigh of relief and went to claim my luggage. I purchased a day’s train ticket and tried to find out from one of the station attendants how to connect with the train going towards my destination from the Gatwick Airport train station. Unknown to me, that was the beginning of my long romance with maps. The attendant took out a map, pointed out the routes and armed me with my own map. I also got to discover that maps have been placed at every bus stop, inside the buses, every train station, inside the trains and any other place you can think of. By

The ArcelorMittal Orbit which is said to be about 377ft.

the end of my stay, I had maps of different shapes and sizes and was in a dilemma of how to dispose of them. While waiting for the train, the excitement and festive atmosphere stemming from hosting the games was palpable at the train station and pink banners emblazoned with the logo of the Paralympics were in sight. Also, London 2012 volunteers dressed in purple and orange vests and carton-coloured trousers were located in strategic areas specifically for those who needed any information about getting to any of the venues of the games. Up till then, the weather had been friendly and I had taken off my sweater, but as I descended towards the underground station, I was suddenly hit by cold weather as though to awaken me to the reality that I was no longer in Nigeria. I was surprised to find the seats on the train fully occupied and standing all through the ride was no mean feat, considering that I was basically leaning on the person standing in front of me due to the congestion. It reminded me of standing “bumper to bumper” in the Molue buses on the streets of Lagos. Never in my wildest dreams would I have considered encountering such in London. Nevertheless I enjoyed the scenery of the countryside as the train galloped on at an alarming speed. My companions and I alighted at the Victoria Station to connect another train and once again I was struck by how organised the society was. I was tempted to hang around the passage of the train station to listen to a sweet melody emanating from a violinist who was playing on his instrument but he obviously held no attraction for other passersby who seemed oblivious to his music. This was to become a daily affair as I encountered different instrumentalists at the same spot subsequently and I always looked forward to enjoying more tunes after a hard day’s job. The trains and buses follow a schedule and not once did a bus or train arrive late throughout my stay. My

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Escape

Friday, October 5, 2012

BY THE END OF MY STAY, I HAD MAPS OF DIFFERENT SHAPES AND SIZES AND WAS IN A DILEMMA OF HOW TO DISPOSE OF THEM.

host came to pick me at the Oval Station and we walked to the house which was about 10 minutes away. I had to get to work immediately because I was already two days behind time. I freshened up and got set for the day’s business. My first point of call was the Olympic Park in Stratford, East London which I had heard so much about from colleagues who had covered the Olympics. They had particularly talked about how difficult it was to move from one point to another due to the vastness of the location. We decided to take one of the routes leading to the park which is adjacent to the Stratford Bus station and as we slowly made our way in, I was surprised by the influx and exit of human traffic. There was a massive turnout of the inhabitants of London who came in their thousands to support the physically challenged athletes. Hundreds of volunteers cutting across different nationalities were at hand to point the way to the park or give directions while others called out greetings to the mobile crowd over megaphones and received enthusiastic responses in return. Though confined to their wheelchairs, a sizeable number of physically challenged people joined in the fun as they were being pushed towards the park by family members or friends. It looked like everyone was having the time of their lives. Suddenly, the Westfield Stratford City came into view and it was as if I had been ushered into a different world entirely; it was indeed a sight for sore eyes. Owned by the Westfield Group, the centre has been described as one of the largest urban shopping centres in Europe and third largest in the United Kingdom. Some of the biggest brands such as Next, Marks and Spencer, Gap, Hugo Boss, Samsung, Forever 21, Nike, Adidas and Primark are accommodated within the complex which comprised of approximately 300 stores and 70 restaurants. The long distances from one point to another seemed to be a deliberate plan by the organisers to ensure that the citizenry and visitors alike would be able to appreciate the structures and all that had been put in place for the games. I had decided to flow along when I saw the entrance to the park. Sighting the gate was like a breath of fresh air and suddenly, the exhaustion I felt vanished instantly. Here I was at last at the Olympic Park. The park is said to cover 2.5 square kilometers, which is roughly the size of 350 football pitches. It accommodates the Olympic Stadium and has a sitting capacity for 80,000 for the athletics event. Other competition venues located within the park are the Eaton Manor (wheelchair tennis), the Velodrome (track cycling), the Riverbank Arena (hockey), the Basketball Arena (wheelchair basketball), the Copper Box (basketball, handball, badminton, boxing, martial arts, netball, wheelchair rugby and volleyball) and the Aquatics Centre (swimming, diving and synchronized swimming). A major edifice that cannot be missed is the ArcerlorMittal Orbit which is a spiralling structure made of recycled steel that stands at almost 4,500 feet tall, making it the tallest structure in the Olympic Park. At first glance, I wondered what purpose the orbit was meant to serve. Sited between the Olympic Stadium and the Aquatics Centre, the sculpture served as the observation tower of the park. Visitors to the tower have to ascend via an elevator in the core to enjoy the observation deck at the top. The platform affords panoramic views of up to 20 miles, encompassing the entire Olympic Park and London’s

Landed by Les Johnson

A cultural troupe thrilling the athletes at the reception held at the residence of Nigeria’s High Commissioner to the UK

FACT FILE •

London, the capital city of England is the largest metropolitan area in United Kingdom

•

It has a diverse range of peoples and cultures and more than 300 languages are spoken within its boundaries. It has been described as a world cultural capital

•

The UK’s largest concentration of Nigerians is found in London and Peckham is now home to the largest overseas Nigerian community in the UK

•

The first official Summer Paralympic Games was held in Rome in 1960 while the first Winter Paralympic Games was held in Örnsköldsvik, Sweden in 1976.

•

All Paralympic Games are governed by the International Paralympic Committee (IPC).

•

Since 1960, the Paralympic Games have taken place in the same year as the Olympic Games.

•

Neroli Fairhall, an archer from New Zealand was the first paraplegic athlete to compete in the Summer Olympics. He set this precedent at the 1984 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles.

•

The London 2012 Paralympic Games makes it the first time the United Kingdom is hosting the Paralympics. However, the city first hosted the Olympic Games in 1908 and later in 1948.

skyline beyond. The monument was designed by Anish Kapoor, an Indian-born British sculptor and structurally engineered by Cecil Balmond a Sri Lankan-British designer, artist, architect and writer. The name ArcelorMittal Orbit is a combination of Lakshmi Mittal, Britain’s richest man and steel tycoon who served as the chief sponsor of the sculpture. Orbit was the original working title for Kapoor and Balmond’s design. Over the next few days, the park hosted a range of events and attractions such as street performers, poets, dancers and various displays which entertained the fans. It was not out of place to see a small group of people encircled around a person or band as each day came up with different forms of exhibition to keep the crowds occupied pending the commencement of a sporting event at any of the venues. The second major location of the Paralympics was the Excel Centre which hosted the judo, power lifting and table tennis events. The place is made up of five different arenas but particularly stands out because of the performance of the Nigerian power lifters who became the toast of the fans having won 12 medals, six of which were gold. Prior to the games, the venue was used as an exhibition and international convention centre and would revert to its former role after the games. Located on a 100-acre site on the northern quay of the Royal Victoria Dock in London Docklands, between Canary Wharf and London City Airport, the centre has an idyllic look to it and seems to be the perfect

A poet engages some revellers at the Park

place for a getaway. Less than 100 metres to the entrance of the building, I was confronted by a bronze sculpture of three men depicting different activities. The monument which was made by Les Johnson and tagged, Landed was erected in 2009 in honour of the men and women who worked in the Royal Docks from 1855 to 1983. Subsequently, I enjoyed observing the obvious multicultural and inter-racial system operative as in London, I came across people from different continents but the particular nationalities which stood out were the Chinese and Indians/Pakistanis especially the latter who could be identified with their traditional outfits particularly the saris for the women and turbans for the men. It is however pertinent to note the strong presence of Nigerians particularly from the Yoruba extraction which brought to reality the popular parlance Naija no dey carry last. I ran into them in the buses, trains, bus stops, behind or in front of me as I went about my daily routine and they could be easily identified by the Pidgin English or Yoruba they spoke with relish. A friend based in London took a colleague and I to a particular nightclub called T&F which was only open to Nigerians. A band took the stand at almost midnight and strictly serenaded the audience with fuji songs much to the delight of some ladies who immediately took to the dance floor and began dancing almost hysterically, making it seem like we were attending one of the owambe parties held almost every weekend in Lagos. Towards the end of my stay, members of the press and Paralympics team were treated to a dose of Nigerian hospitality at a reception held in honour of the Paralympians at the residence of Nigeria’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Ambassador Dalhatu Sarki Tafida, following the team’s impressive performance. A cultural troupe was at hand to entertain the athletes with a variety of songs and dances in the three major Nigerian languages, Hausa, Yoruba and Igbo and was warmly applauded by the audience who no doubt, had the feel of being home away from home. This in no small way set the mood for my return to Nigeria two days later. I’ve been back to Lagos for some days now but I can still hear the whistling of trains somewhere at the back of my mind. I miss the organised transportation network in London as well as the fun times I had. Nevertheless, it is good to be home.

Denrele’s Day Adenrele Niyi Denrele’s Day is a collection of witty & sincere articles inspired by a zany imagination

denrele@nationalmirroronline.net

08059100422 (SMS only)

etween the heart-wrenching picture of a dead neonate found at a public dumpsite in Gowon Estate, a Lagos suburb, discarded like ‘garbage’ and the massive flooding of Rivers Niger and Benue which has rendered parts of Anambra, Benin, Niger and Kogi states disaster zones; while not leaving out the savage bloodbath unleashed on undergraduates of tertiary institutions in Adamawa State, we needn’t go visiting a soothsayer to know that portions of our national life are falling apart like a pyramid of playing cards blown by the wind. However, this sort of admission of being in dire straits can only come from a country whose leadership possesses the strength of character, the integrity and will to ‘cast out hydrahead demons’ —borrowing spiritual parlance from Christianity. To tackle this dilemma from the angle of leadership- if I were the Nigerian president, a senator, honourable, I.G of Police, Minister of the Federal Cabinet etc etc. in this situation, what would I do? I asked myself this befuddling question on Tuesday night after sighting the horrific pictures of bloodied corpses on mortuary slabs –slain victims of the Monday night invasion of a hostels accommodating students of Federal Polytechnic, Mubi, Adamawa State University and the School of Health Technology, Mubi. For starters, thank God I am not the Commander in Chief/President because my emotional state in the first few minutes of seeing blown out skulls on bloodsoaked corpses sunk me into a state of traumatic shock and depression. I shed tears for my country; I still weep for my country. That is not to make a case for sexists who argue to support the exclusion of women from high office on account of our assumed emotional inability to clinically function in environments

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Friday, October 5, 2012

A nightmare in Mubi town How much more can a nation with Nigeria’s peculiar challenges of under-optimised potentials, violent wranglings and static development take? I wonder... replete with pressure, tension and charged conflicts. Any warm-blooded human, whose heart communicates in love languages and whose conscience hasn’t been seared by the deceptive trappings of privileged living would cry after hearing the retelling of how these hapless students were murdered commando-style. The luckless students, in search of knowledge and academic ascent, were roused from sleep by armed men who reports claim made distinctions between those doomed for death and others who had earned a continued existence on earth by a yet-to-be unravelled criteria. After the staccato of discharging bullets ripped through the night and its projectiles into skulls, vital organs and limbs of the ‘marked for death’ undergraduates, the gory leftover of a massacre in the school hostel bore similarities to a sleep scene out of Wes Craven‘s Nightmare on Elm Street. News flash people: we have a case of serial killers on our hands in Nigeria. That’s as far as comparisons go between Freddy Krueger, the film’s evil protagonist who haunts dreams and slays his victims in their sleep resulting in their death in reality and our unknown Mubi student killers. One thing has been established; you don’t also need a forensic expert or crime psychologist to report that the team of killers who committed this cold-blooded crime have taken life before; I suspect maybe severally and in an equally unfeeling manner. Unfortunately, unlike similar twisted minds in the U.S or U.K who, on psychological evaluation, are determined to be nut cases or persons with psychiatric disorders, our serial killers display an arrogance and a sober detachment from the animalistic barbarism of their murderous actions and carry it out in full view of the public. No sense guilt, no acceptance of wrong doing. This is the hallmark of sociopaths and people who as a matter of urgency must be commited to a mental institution and separated from ‘normal’ empathic people. As for the president, we look up to you and your government for expedient solutions and fast too. That’s why you are president o, to bear this behemoth of responsibilty and assure us of a secured future for generations yet unborn. Otherwise, I will start considering relocating to a remote island where joie de vivre is the watchword and everyone sits on sandy beaches all day drinking cocktails from coconuts and lapping up the luxurious Caribbean experience. Love and peace for the weekend!

CLAPPERBOARD with

Eddie Ugbomah www.edifosafilm.com

We need a saviour to survive

can’t understand why kids today have refused to learn, listen or be proud of being Nigerian (African). I have spent my last 50 years telling Africans that we ought to be proud of our colour and what we have. In 1966 when I started promoting shows I was promoting only Black stars like Millie Small ‘the lollipop girl’; Chubby Checker ‘the twist king’ and Danny Williams, a former South African refugee based in London who sang the popular hit song Moon River. I brought the group Soul Messengers, which had the hit song “The Champ” and the big Rock Band Called “The Gas”; this blew Nigerian entertainment open. In London, all the Nigeria bands played in my club “Four Aces”. I promoted the big Fela London shows when nobody wanted him because he was not known in Europe or America; I booked him through the Robert Stigwood Organisation. This tour added more ambition to Fela’s life; I gave him a big show in Lagos during my Millie Small tour because he was the only man whose band could read music. When I finally started my profession, I was a true Nigerian film producer impresario. All my contemporary films were about Nigerian topics, events and history. Today, our producers are bent on imitating stories, actions and attitudes of Americans. They are influenced by America style which they can’t copy properly because you don’t take coal to Newcastle. I took the Nigerian music group “The Funkess” made up of late Harry Mosco, Jake Solo, Macellous and Agada to London. After spending my money to take these ingrates to London, they dumped me and ran away with one Jegede. Today, five out of six of them are dead and they all died wretched. We must all watch what we do to people because we are all here temporarily and it is a small world. When I was recently invited by Patricia Bala, the new Director General of the Censors Board, you should have seen the hypocritical faces of the “evil servants”; these unproductive people felt like shooting the truth down. I ignored them, had my meeting with the acting DG and left. These are Nigerians who hate progress; they collect salaries for doing nothing but carry files and hate each other. These people hated Emeka Mba and were giving him bad advice to make him fail. Emeka has left the civil servants that are the brains behind all our failure and they are still there. I told Patricia Bala the truth; she should effect changes, transfers, get rid of dead woods, hypocrites and praise singing backbiters. The Censors Board,

ELDERS ARE AFRAID

OF DROPPING POWER; THESE KIDS WITH THEIR FOREIGN INFLUENCES WILL JUST KILL US like other ministries and parasatals, is sick. Ministers, President, chairmen, governors, don’t steal it is these heartless non-committed permanent secretaries, accountants and auditors, that encourage and teach their bosses how to steal. While organising the fraud and stealing, they too are collecting their own. When I was the Nigerian Film Corporation (NFC) Chairman, the auditor told me he would nail the Managing Director during the presentation of the annual audit report. On the day he presented the audit, the account was balanced and I laughed at this man and made sure he was sacked. With these bad examples, how do we expect the kids not to go for their own cake?; when they hear about stealing of billions and see hypocrites, tribalism, nepotism, lack of security, jobs, good roads and good health. The people I worked with at the Censors Board were glad that I walked out because it gave them a chance to mess up the place and the movie industry suffered. No one is an island and we have lots of example to learn from. Take the good ones, ‘Nigerianise’ them and live in peace. This essay is not on the Censors Board or NFC, but they are my constituency till I die. My profession is too relevant to be ignored but when the supervisory institutions are not well organised, where do you go. One thing I want people to understand is that I must be paid and treated well for any contribution I make at this my 70th year. So, those dead woods should go and eat their heart out. The crisis based on political greed, power tussle and tribalism is killing the nation. Who cares where the president is from if Nigeria is truly united. Many great Nigerians were born in the North, now it is not safe to be in the North. If ever we are going to move forward and progress, we must learn to respect ourselves; the youth must learn to listen and respect elders. We, elders of today are afraid of what would happen if we drop power; these kids with their foreign influences will just kill us, so the old just hold on to power in the dump called Nigeria. I know there are only 5% of committed patriots in this country but who listens to them? Nobody!

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

People In The Mirror

Friday, October 5, 2012

Architects’ body honours Agbesua The Nigerian Institute of Architects (NIA), on Saturday, September 29, honoured one of its own, an accomplished professional and an architect of repute, Arc. Isaac Olusola Agbesua during the Architect-inFocus 2012 event which held at the Freedom Park, Lagos. The event featured analyses of the celebrant’s architectural masterpieces and culminated in the presentation of Award of Excellence to the former Member of the Nigerian Tourist Board.

L-R: General Secretary, NIA, Lagos, Arc. Bayo Ogunmefun; Arc. Femi Ayodele and the celebrant, Arc. Isaac Olusola Agbesua.

Chairman, Nigerian Institute of Architects (NIA), Lagos, Arc. Ladi Lewis (left) and Vice Chairman, Arc. Titi Adeleye.

L-R: Immediate Past Chairman, NIA, Lagos, Arc. Abimbola Ajayi; Managing Director, Interstate Architects Ltd, Arc. Ladega Olusegun and Chief Executive Officer, PDF, Mr. Aluko Olokun-Folarin. Estate surveyor and valuer, Mr. Emeka Okoronkwo (left) and Director, Brown Inq, Mr. Tuoyo Jemerigbe.

L-R: Daughter of the celebrant, Ola; Arc. Agbesua and his wife, Folashade.

Project Manager, Olas Nigeria Ltd, Elder Alonge Alonge (left) and Quantity Surveyor, Agbesua and Associates, Mr. Pius Ojo.

Immediate Past Chairperson, Female Architect Nigeria of NIA, Arc. Orbi EdozieIghofosa (left) and Managing Director, Basic Outfit Ltd, Arc. Elechi Maduneme.

Guests at the exhibition room for Arc. Agbesua’s works. PHOTOS: YINKA ADEPARUSI

Principal Partner, OAA Consultant Ltd, Arc. Olawunmi Agbaje (left) and Graduate Member, LSDPC, Ilupeju, Lagos, Olabisi Ogunkoya.

Akinadewo presents Here Comes the Commander-in-Chief

L-R: Hon. Zakari Mohammed; President, Nigerian Guild of Editors, Mr. Gbenga Adefaye; former Ogun State Governor, Otunba Gbenga Daniel and former Abia State Governor, Orji Uzor Kalu.

L-R: Editor, National Mirror Newspaper, Mr. Seyi Fasugba, Orji Uzor Kalu; Chief Tola Adeniyi and Mr. Gbenga Adefaye.

October 2 will remain memorable for Mr. Gabriel Akinadewo, editor of Nigerian Compass Newspaper, as the day his new book, titled Here Comes the Commander-in-Chief, a compilation of his columns over five years, was publicly presented at the Sheraton Hotel, Lagos. As one of Nigeria’s leading journalists, and the event witnessed a huge turnout of prominent Nigerians in governance, media and the corporate sector.

Author, Mr. Gabriel Akinadewo (3rd from right) with some family members.

L-R: Hon. Victor Ogene; representative of the Delta State Governor, Hon. Oma Djebah and the book reviewer/Editor, Guardian Newspaper, Mr. Debo Adesina.

L-R: Chairman, Western Publishing Company, Aare Kola Oyefeso; Chief Ayo Adebanjo and the author, Gabriel Akinadewo.

L-R: Media External Relations Manager, First Bank, Mr. Remi Edwards-Adebiyi; Pastor Yemi Olayinka and Prince Adedayo Adeyeye. PHOTOS: FEMI AJASA

Friday, October 5, 2012

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Mirror Drive

2012 BMW 7-Series:

When luxury meets performance OLUSEGUN KOIKI

or 2012, the BMW 7-Series continues to balance comfort with an engaging driving experience. Three engine choices are available in the 7-Series, including a twin-turbo six-cylinder engine in 740i and 740Li models. While standard V8 powerplants are common among super luxury cars, test drivers say there is no need to avoid six-cylinder 7-Series if you are concerned about power. Still, if you are interested in a sedan with ample power, BMW offers turbocharged V8 and V12 engines that make the 7-Series accelerate just as well as it handles. Most auto industry players also approve of BMW’s Driving Dynamics Control, which allows ride control and steering adjustments that range from “Comfort” to “Sport+”. Still, shoppers looking for a car with a posh, serene ride should be aware that the 7-Series is more of a driver’s car than some of its rivals. While most agree that the 2012 7-Series’ exciting driving dynamics make it fun to drive, some auto stakeholder say the car no longer strikes the balance between comfort and sport that they have come to expect. If you are looking for a super luxury car that coddles you with an ultra-smooth ride, competitors like the Lexus LS and Mercedes-Benz S-Class might be more appealing. The 7-Series’ interior is loved for its quality materials and a decent suite of standard tech features. The cabin, albeit luxurious, is still not as opulent as some of rivals. Features like heated and cooled seats and satellite radio are often standard equipment at this price point, but one

will need to add option packages to get them on the 740i. 740i Still, the 7-Series impresses critics with its iDrive system, which is much more user-friendly than earlier versions. The BMW 7-Series is also roomy; ample passenger space is available front and rear, and choosing an extended-wheelbase Li model increases the 7-series’ back seat comfort, which is good even on standard wheelbase models. Three engines and two wheelbase lengths are available on the 2012 BMW 7-Series. Regular 7-Series models have a 120.9-inch wheelbase, while Li models are 5.5 inches longer. BMW 740i and 750i models are available in either style, while the 760 is a Li-only model. The 740i comes equipped with a twin-turbo six-cylinder engine, push-button start, leather upholstery, four-zone climate control, navigation, Bluetooth and a 10-speaker stereo with 12 gigabytes of music storage, iPod adapter and HD radio. The 750i comes with all of the features listed above, as well as interior items such as upgraded leather on 20-way adjustable heated front seats, a power trunk lid and soft-closing automatic doors. A more powerful 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 is also under the 750i’s hood. All-wheel drive is available on 750i and Li models for an additional cost. The top-rung 760Li competes in an elite class of super luxury cars like the Mercedes S600 and comes with a powerful, twin-turbo V12 engine, top- and side-view parking cameras, heated and ventilated seats at all four corners and power rear sunshades.

Performance Auto stakeholders say that the 2012 BMW 7-Series

THE 7-SERIES IMPRE IMPRESSES CRITICS WITH ITS IDRIVE SYSTEM, WHICH IS MUC MUCH MORE USER-FRIENDLY THAN EARLIER VERSIONS

is agile for a super luxury car, and its numerous engine options also make it stand out from the competition. BMW offers the 7-Series as 740i and 740Li models, which feature a twin-turbo inline six-cylinder engine. While these cars compete in a class that is filled with V8s, the new six-cylinder mill provides competitive acceleration –a turbocharged V8 comes in the 750i and Li, while the 760Li offers even more thrust thanks to a turbocharged V12 engine. BMW also allows 7-Series owners to tailor their driving experience with the Driving Dynamics Control system, which allows users to adjust their suspension and steering with Comfort, Normal, Sport and Sport+ settings.

Interior The 2012 BMW 7-Series’ roomy cabin and high-quality materials comes equipped with a suite of cabin tech that includes standard Bluetooth, navigation, iPod/ USB connection and a 10-speaker stereo. Many test drivers are pleased that BMW’s iDrive, which controls navigation and entertainment settings, has become easier to use than it was in previous models. Still, with the exception of the 760Li, the 7-Series skimps on features such as ventilated front seats, requiring buyers to add option packages to get these items. Rivals such as the Lexus LS and Mercedes-Benz

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Mirror Drive

Friday, October 5, 2012

Stallion adds SsangYong to brand S

S-Class offer these as standard equipment, as well as cabins that are more luxuriously appointed.

tallion Motors, one of the Nigeria’s leading automobile dealership has added another brand to its existing i eight brands in the industry with the launch of one of Korea’s largest automakl ers, e SsangYong Motor last week. Stallion currently has sole franchise for Porsche, Audi, Volkswagen, Skoda, f Honda, Hyundai, Ashok Leyland and FoH ton t autos and will be responsible for marketing, sales and after sales activities of k the t SangYong brand in Nigeria. Briefing journalists in Lagos on the new addition in Lagos last week, the Din rector, Sales and Marketing SsanYong, Mr. Jatin Nadkarni said that the auto company, which has already spread its tentacle in Europe and Asian market, is t also expanding its scope in Africa with Nia

geria and South Africa as major markets. Nadkarni assured that Stallion Motors is committed to creating a niche for SsangYong in Nigeria, taking advantage of the worldwide appeal the brand holds. With the acceptance of the brand in Europe and Asia, he expressed optimism that the vehicles would be accepted in the country, adding that the brands are currently equipped with state-of-the-art technology. According to Nadkarni, some of the models to be marketed in Nigeria include Rexton, Kyron, Korando and Actyon Sports. A notable highlight among the models from SsangYong is the Actyon Sports Pick-up 4WD, expected to interest clientele seeking solutions for haulage and other commercial uses. The new Actyon Sports Pick-up he explained is available

in three variants - 4WD Manual Transmission, MT), 4WD MT with ABS+ABG and 2WD Manual Transmission. A veritable pioneer automaker, SsangYong initiated the era of four-wheel drive vehicles in the 1980s when it independently developed Musso and Korando Korea’s most enduring SUV brands in the global market. SsangYong Motors is also committed to the advancement of eco-friendly diesel technology through the development of a sophisticated, world-class common rail engine to strengthen its global competitive edge by producing environmentfriendly, small eXDi200 engines that conform to the EURO5 standards. This is in addition to the company’s recent efforts to develop EURO6 compliant engines.

Features BMW’s latest version of the iDrive system, which controls most navigation and entertainment functions, generally gets good reviews from the automotive players. The system uses a single knob to adjust settings, and although it frustrated most players when it was first introduced on the 7-Series, the newest generation of iDrive is much easier to use. While the 7-Series also features an interior wrapped in top-notch materials, some stakeholders comment that competitors like the Mercedes-Benz S-Class and the Lexus LS seem more luxurious inside. An impressive list of tech features round out the 2012 7-Series’ interior. All models come equipped with fourzone climate control, push-button start, leather, navigation, Bluetooth and a 10-speaker stereo with a 12GB hard drive to store your MP3s. If you decide to spring for a 750i or 750Li, you will also gain soft-closing automatic doors, upgraded leather and a power trunk lid.

MAINTENANCE TIPS

water pump replacement is a repair that may be undertaken by an experienced auto mechanic. If you are confident in your car maintenance skills, this is a task you can complete in a few hours; however, if you are not comfortable you should definitely take it to the auto workshop. In doing this, you can contact the service manual. A service manual is an instruction book for the various repairs that may be necessary on a specific make and model vehicle. These repair instructions will outline the parts required, the necessary tools, and the steps to take in order to accomplish the task. In many cases, there are helpful tips and hints included in order to make the job a bit easier to complete. When replacing the water pump, professional mechanics suggest replacing the hoses and belts for the cooling system. It may seem like an effort to get you to part with more money than is necessary, but it’s a very good idea. Belts and hoses are actually somewhat fragile, and

SsangYong Stallion

Replacing a car’s water pump can easily be damaged during removal or while putting them back on the engine. While they are off, they must not come in contact with grease, anti-freeze, oil, or gasoline; not always easy in a repair situation. New hoses and belts are not expensive, and it’s always better to spend a little more and replace them, just to be on the safe side.

Accessing the Water Pump Many of today’s vehicles require the removal of the alternator and in some cases various other parts, in order for you to access the water pump. Before you begin, make a list of any parts that will require removal, and then check the service manual for instructions on how to remove them. Again, be sure you have all the required tools and that you understand the process for the removal of these before you begin.

In addition, be sure to disconnect the negative battery cable before you start as a precaution. This is a good safety measure for any automotive repair, whether you are working with the electrical system or not. Install a memory saver if you have one, and disconnect the under-lamp so as not to drain the memory saver battery.

Replacing the Water Pump While many motor vehicle engine repairs can be spelled out in a simple step-by-step format, a water pump replacement is not one of them. This is because there is so much variety in the placement of and access to water pumps between vehicles, no one simple set of directions may be applied to all vehicles. So you will have to follow your particular manual here.

Finishing Up Once you have replaced the wa-

ter pump, belts, hoses, and any other components, replace the anti-freeze and water in the system according to the directions in the manual and on the anti-freeze container. Be certain to dilute anti-freeze to one part antifreeze, one part water. More is not better when it comes to anti-freeze. Store any unused anti-freeze out of the reach of children.

Cocktail

Friday, October 5, 2012

FOR YOUR SUCCESS

WITH DR. DEJI FOLUTILE

Today's Tonic (16)

Speak little, do much. **Benjamin Franklin * * * Action Speaks Louder! Though it is tough, it’s an ongoing discipline for me to engage more in doing than talking. I keep reading that anyone can talk, but it takes concerted actions and efforts to get meaningful results in life. No matter how much we know, it is only what we do with what we know that matters. Action will always speak louder than voice. If we get married to consistent action on our dreams and talk less, we will be rewarded beyond our wildest imagination. It is a fact that children hardly copy what their parents say but what they do. Please ACT on that your dream TODAY! TEL 08104942999 E-MAIL deji.folutile@gmail.com Follow me @TwitterOWOTIDE

Batman B t charged h g d for f obstructing b t ti g police li

he search for a driver who fled an accident scene in northern Michigan over the weekend was apparently a job for a dog, not a bat. State troopers arrested 33-year-old Mark Wayne Williams because they say he refused to leave them alone after he showed up Saturday night wearing a Batman outfit. “He wouldn’t clear the scene, and we had a canine out there and he kept screwing up the scent,” State Police Sgt. Jeff Gorno told the Petoskey News-Review. “He

said he wanted to help us look for the driver.” “We didn’t want the dog to track Batman instead of the accident scene, and he was getting in the way of officers who had a job to do,” the sergeant said. Williams wasn’t carrying any dangerous weapons, but his costume and gear were confiscated, Gorno said. He was charged with resisting and obstructing police in an investigation, and he posted bond and was released from the county jail. He is due back in court Oct. 18. A call to a number listed

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Oddities

Norwegian mass killer’s speech to hit German theatre

Turkish-Ger man actress will read out Norwegian massmurderer Anders Behring Breivik’s bizarre courtroom speech in German theatres next month in an effort to highlight the widespread prevalence of farright ideology in Europe. Swiss director Milo Rau adapted the script of “Breivik’s Explanation” for the German stage from an audio recording of the hour-long speech the farright nationalist gave in April before being sentenced by an Oslo court to 21 years in prison for killing 77 people last year. Though Breivik’s talk of an international underground of killers - latterday Crusaders he called the Knights Templar - seemed to be mere fantasy, many of his beliefs are to be found within the fold of anti-Muslim, anti-immigrant populists. “His ideological `manifesto’ is a distilled representation of a cultural crisis that pervades the European continent and finds expression in an increasingly

xenophobic populism,” Kirsten Simonsen, a professor at Denmark’s Roskilde University, wrote in “Bloodlands”, a 2012 series of essays about Breivik. Some notions touched on by Breivik in his justification for setting off a bomb in Oslo and shooting dozens of teenagers dead on an island retreat - that Europe and its in-

Breivik in court .

digenous cultures are being weakened by immigration and multiculturalism - have been helping reshape right-wing continental politics for years. The theatre performances in Weimar and Berlin are intended to promote the view that while Breivik’s actions were those of a madman, the ideology that drove

him is shockingly widespread in democratic societies like Switzerland and Germany, the 35-year-old director told Reuters. “It’s merely a coincidence that Breivik was the one saying it,” Rau said. “His words could just as well have come from 60 percent of the Swiss population.”

PHOTO: REUTERS

Friday, October 5, 2012

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Business & Finance “The Federal Government of Nigeria has continuously placed the safety and security of the maritime domain in the front burner. In this respect, concerted efforts have been made to ensure adequate safety and security mechanisms in Nigeria’s maritime domain”. Minister of Transport, Idris Umar

“There is an erroneous belief that raising the oil benchmark for the 2013 budget above $75 per barrel would automatically translate into increase in projected revenue but benchmark does not necessarily give you more revenue”, Governor, Central Bank of Nigeria, Mr. Lamido Sanusi.

African economies growing strongly, despite global slowdown -World Bank L ANRE OYETADE

China, which remains an important market for Africa’s mineral exporters. However, consistently high commodity prices and strong export growth in those countries which have made mineral discoveries in recent years, have fuelled economic activity and are expected to underpin Africa’s economic growth for the rest of 2012,” the report said. “A third of African countries will grow at or

above six per cent with some of the fastest growing ones buoyed by new mineral exports such as iron ore in Sierra Leone and uranium and oil in Niger, and by factors such as the return to peace in Cote d’Ivoire, as well as strong growth in countries such as Ethiopia,” said World Bank Vice-President for Africa, Makhtar Diop. He adding that, “an important indicator of

how Africa is on the move is that investor interest in the region remains strong, with $31bn in foreign direct investment flows expected this year, despite difficult global conditions.” However, with the global economy still in fragile condition, Africa’s Pulse warns that “Africa’s strong growth rates could yet be vulnerable to deteriorating market conditions in the

Euro-zone. In addition, recent spikes in food and grain prices are a cause for concern. An unprecedented hot and dry summer in the United States, Russia and Eastern Europe led to reduced yields on both maize and wheat production worldwide. Africa’s Sahel region is already suffering from higher food prices, high rates of malnutrition and recurring crisis and insecurity.

ub-Saharan Africa is expected to grow at 4.8 per cent in 2012, broadly unchanged from the 4.9 per cent growth rate in 2011 and largely on track despite setbacks in the global economy, the World Bank has said. In reports released in the Bank’s new Africa’s Pulse, a twice-yearly analysis of the issues shaping Africa’s economic prospects, excluding South Africa, the continent’s largest economy, growth in Sub-Saharan Africa is forecast to rise to 6 per cent. African exports rebounded notably in the first quarter of 2012, growing at an annualized pace of 32 per cent, up from the 11 per cent pace recorded in the last quarter of 2011. “African countries have not been immune to the recent bout of market volatility stemming from the Euro Area crisis, as well as the growth slowdown that is occurring in some L-R: Chief Executive Officer, NSE, Mr. Oscar Onyema; Group Managing Director/CEO, Union Bank of Nigeria Plc, Mrs. Funke of the largest developing Osibodu and Executive Director, Business Development, NSE, Mr. Haruna Jalo-Waziri at Union Bank of Nigeria Plc’s Facts economies, in particular Behind the Figures in Lagos on Wednesday.

Voters’ card now acceptable as bank customer identification UDO ONYEKA

he Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) as a means of including all segments of the society and also to support the cashless policy has mandated banks and other financial institutions op-

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LAGOS: 01-8446073, 08094331171, 08023133084, 08034019884 ABUJA: 08033020395, 08036321014

erating in the country to include the Independent National Electoral Commission ( INEC) voter’s registration card as a means of customer identification. The CBN in a circular signed by K. N Amugo, for the Director of Financial Policy and Regulation Department said the apex bank has included INEC voter’s registration as a means of identification for the purpose of account opening and

transaction of banking business in Nigeria. “This move became necessary as a result of the need to enhance financial inclusion, to expand the acceptable identification options. “Accordingly all banks and other financial institutions are hereby advised to accept INEC voter’s card duly issued by INEC, bearing the holder’s particulars such as name, photograph, date of birth and address as a

NNPC decries attacks on personnel, unveils SAP

valid additional means of identification of natural persons for the purpose of conducting banking business in Nigeria”. It would be recalled that many financial experts have said that there was the need for banks’ to take some measures that would making services attractive and less laborious to especially the less educated persons. Before now banks request for any of the followings; international

passport, driver’s licence and national identity card to open account, cash a cheque or transact any other business in the bank. It is believed that this measure would not only make bank transactions easier for the less educated Nigerians would also bring some reasonable per cent of Nigerian who not making use of the services of the banks to begin make use of the banks.

Nigeria’s transport sector: Still in slow motion

FLIGHT SCHEDULE Arik Air Los-Abj: 07:15, 09:15, 10:20, 15:20, 16:20, 16:50, 18:45 (Mon-Fri/Sat/Sun) Abj-Los: 07:15, 09:40, 10:20, 12:15, 15:15, 16:15, 17:10, (Mon-Fri/Sat); 12:15, 15:15, 16:15 (Sun) Los-PH: 07:15, 11:40, 14:00, 16:10, 17:15, (Mon-Fri) 07:30, 11:40, 15:50 (Sat) 11:50, 3:50, 17:05 (Sun) Abj-PH: 07:15, 11:20, 15:30 (Mon-Fri) 07:15, 16:00 (Sat) 13:10, 16:00, (Sun) PH-Abj: 08:45, 12:50, 17:00 (Mon-Fri) 08:45, 17:30 (Sat) 14:40, 17:30 (Sun) Abj-Ben: 08:00, 12:10 (Mon-Fri/Sat) 08:55, 12:10 (Sun) Ben-Abj: 09:55, 13:30 (Mon-Fri/Sat) 10:50, 13:30 (Sun)

Aero Contractors Los-Abj: 06:50, 13:30, 16:30, 19:45 (Mon-Fri/Sat/Sun) 12:30 (Sun) 16:45 (Sat). Abj-Los: 07:30, 13:00, 19:00 (Mon-Fri/ Sat) 10:30, 14:30, 19:30 (Sun) 18.30 (Sat) Los-Ben: 07:45, 11:00, 15:30, (Mon-Fri/Sat/ Sun) 12:30 (Sun) 15:30 (Mon-Fri/Sat/Sun) Ben-Los: 09:15, 12:30, 17:00 (Mon-Fri/ Sat/Sun) 17:00 (Sat), 14:00 (Sun)

EXCHANGE RATES WAUA

234.6271

USD

155.84

CHF

159.2642

SDR

235.0535

CFA

0.2924

GBP

244.1701

EURO

191.3715

OIL / GAS FUTURES ICE BRENT

$123.39

-0.78

NYMEX

$108.45

-0.11

OPEC BASKET

$122.86

+1.16

NATURAL GAS

$2.83

-0.03

Business News

Friday, October 5, 2012

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

NNPC decries attacks on personnel, unveils SAP CHIDI UGWU ABUJA

igerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), has decried the increasing attacks on its personnel and installations across the country saying the cases of attacks are worrisome. The Group Managing Director of NNPC, Mr. Andrew Yakubu condemned the spate of attacks yesterday while unveiling the System Application Products also known as SAP, to effectively launch the Corporation into the league of major global companies that run the SAP business solution. Yakubu described the new the solution as a major milestone in the drive to transform NNPC being the biggest System Application Products in Africa. According to him, the solution which came on live after rigorous user acceptance tests, internal and external quality assurance reviews was designed to help the Corporation standardize and streamline its systems and processes in line with global best practices. He explained that after testrunning the SAP in parallel with the existing SUN System for over 14 months, the Management is convinced that the Solution will help the Corporation achieve a seamless integration of its processes and systems. “In addition, the philosophy of the SAP solution compels the

adoption of a central procurement organization to enable seamless Process-to-Pay, engender transparency, drive value for money and process efficiency,’’ the GMD said Adding:, “Also worrisome is the increasing cases of kidnap of staff members and families, piracy and other forms of harassment. The NNPC Management is however working with security agencies to ensure safety of personnel and family members,’’ He stated that the recent violent attack on NNPC pipeline repair crew at Arepo in Ogun State which resulted in the death of some personnel is of serious concern noting that Management is doing everything possible to prevent future occurrence. The GMD noted that despite the myriads of challenges in the downstream sector, the NNPC has continued to sustain the supply and distribution of petroleum products across the country even at great peril to its staff members and facilities. To midwife the new SAP process, Yakubu announced the formation of a supply chain organisation for the NNPC Corporate Headquarters on a pilot basis. He also stated that procurement of goods and services in all NNPC Strategic Business Units and Corporate Service Units must be routed through the supply chain organization.

L-R: Group Chief Marketing Officer, Dufil Prima Foods, Mr. Pawan Sharma; winner of Indomie super Millionaire Promo, Mr. Otun Lateef and Public Relations Manager, Mr. Tope Ashiwaju, during the 2nd draw and presentation of cheque to the winner in Lagos, yesterday.

Poor debts recovery: NAMA blames political interference OLUSEGUN KOIKI

he management of the Nigerians Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), yesterday blamed undue political interference in its inability to recover debts owed it by users of its facilities within the airports, especially the airlines. The agency also disclosed that it has so far generated N20billion from the Aviation Navigation and Satellite Progarmme (ANSP) and

NULGE partners MOAN in battle against multiple taxation

he National Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) has appointed the Mobile Advert Agency of Nigeria (MOAN) as partner in its attempt to curb multiplicity of taxes. This is sequel to the directive from The Presidency through the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) to the NULGE President, Comrade Ibrahim Khaled, to take concrete steps to address the incidence of multiplicity of taxes as well as the harassment and molestation of motorists in

all the local government areas across the country. In view of this, NULGE said it had approved a proposal to partner with MOAN, whose principal objective is to streamline tax collection and eradicate the menace of multiplicity of taxes, to form and coordinate a National Task Force against Multiple Taxation/Levies. In a letter addressed to MOAN President, Otunba Mike Osimen Eboziegbe, in Lagos, NULGE urged the agency to take measures to ensure uniformity of taxes collectible across

all the 774 councils across the country. The union said on its part, it had introduced a biometric clearance, which would, henceforth, be the guarantee for free movement of vehicles across all the local councils in the country. MOAN, therefore, advised motorists “to go the nearest council office, the agency’s officials and revenue agents to obtain the NULGE biometric clearance, which is expected to be added to the approved local council documents already collected nationwide”.

hoped to increase the generation to about N30bn before the end of the year. The Managing Director, NAMA, Engr. Nnamdi Udoh disclosed these yesterday a press briefing marking his 365 days in office. Udoh lamented that despite the ‘Pay As You Go’ regime introduced by the agency over two years ago, several airlines still owe it massive debts, saying that until most of its clients change their orientation, it would be difficult for NAMA to meet the expected growth. Udoh who declined to mention the actual amount owed it by the various airlines both foreign and local, however said that the debts were in the region of billions of naira, stressing that the debts owed it and other agencies in the sector led to the disruption of operations of one of the indigenous carriers some few weeks ago. He, however, said that the management was putting in place measures to ensure that debts owed the agency was recovered without disruptions to operations of any of its clients. He said, “We are owed billions of naira by different operators we rendered services to and the crisis has been on for a long time. There is a ‘pay as you go’ regime in place, but despite this, people still owe

Insurance sector making progress with reforms –NAICOM OMOBOLA TOLU-KUSIMO

he National Insurance Commission (NAICOM) has said current statistics show that the insurance sector is responding to various initiatives. Commissioner for Insurance, Mr. Fola Daniel made this disclosure recently in Lagos while

speaking on “Repositioning the Nigerian Insurance Industry for Enhanced Relevance to the National Economic Transformation”. Daniel stated that the sector is progressively making contributions to the nation’s economy. He said, “With a huge population of about 170 million people, the Nigerian insur-

ance market has the capacity to become the biggest in Africa and amongst the biggest in the world. “Current statistics show that the sector is responding to the various initiates, and is making greater contributions to the nation’s economy. “It is my belief that if the industry is able to maximise and take advantage of all the pre-

vailing opportunities opened to it, the sector will in no distant time assume leadership position in Africa”. Speaking on part of the initiative, he said the commission had in 2009 launched the Market Development and Restructuring Initiative, a medium term industry development plan designed by top focus on the enforcement of compulsory insurance products.

us massive debts. Just recently, in-house unions in the industry disrupted the operations of an airline, but before you knew it, there was propaganda that we were the one that sent them. “If these debts are not recovered, there is no way we can meet our obligations to the public or we can move forward. For an airline to owe so much, I think that is ridiculous. There are several interferences from different quarters whenever we want to take a bold step.” Udoh stated further that the impact plan of the agency in the next three years is to reposition NAMA as a key player in the 21st century and be a leading ANSP in Africa, saying that currently Nigeria is number two in the continent. He explained that the only way the agency can achieve its set goals was to boost its Internally Generated Revenues (IGR), have access to funds for capital projects, diversification to non-aeronautical revenue sources, human capacity development and build efficient human resources in the system. He emphasised that in the last one year, the Federal Government had imposed new responsibilities on the agency, which include the transfer of airfield ground lighting and operations from the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) and transfer of bird strike and other wildlife hazard control and vegetation management from FAAN to the agency. He said that the additional new responsibilities would further boost the efficiency and operations of the workers, promising that in the next couple of months, users of the airports would experience more safety and comfort within the complex. “The goal of this administration is not only to reposition NAMA to world class pedestal, but becoming the leading ANSP in Africa has been set as benchmark to greater heights.”

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Business News

Friday, October 5, 2012

OPS divided on the CBN loan ban for debtor firms STANLEY IHEDIGBO

he Organised Private Sector (OPS) has maintained a strange silence on the recent Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) loan ban placed on its debtor members. The apex bank in a September 17, 2012 circular barred the Deposit Money Banks from extending further credit to 113 companies and 419 company directors who owed banks in excess of N5billion. Most of the debtors owed large sums which have already been written off banks’ books and have been assumed by the Asset Management Company of Nigeria. A source who spoke with National Mirror, said that various OPS sub groups have yet to adopt a common position on the matter which has divided members. He added that the commercial banks, which the CBN was protecting, are members of the OPS, as well as the real sector operators who are indicted in the debts development are they members

too. The source, a council member of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry said that the step taken by the apex bank in publishing the companies’ names for public consumption was uncalled for, as they’re many ways the Asset Management Company of Nigeria can recover the money without embarrassing its members. Lending his voice, an industrialist who pleaded anonymous, blamed the high interest rate in the country as reasons some firms are not able to pay back their loans. He added that the high cost of production, lack of infrastructure, especially power supply and frequent policy changes were major factors contributing to the inability of many companies to repay bank loans. “You will see a company that has executed a project and you have delay in payment and all that and at the end of the day profits are wiped of when you pay 23 per cent plus management fees, so people will end up owing. The

banks too are to blame in part, as many of them will keep granting loans to customers that have not repaid initial loans thinking of the fees they will charge. They will advise that you take more loans and at the end of the day the debt balloons out of control”, he said. However, a Lagos based businessman, Mr. Johnson Oleka , supported the move made by the apex bank saying it is a right step in the at right direction. He said that the banking sector crisis of 2009 was as a result of people collecting huge loans and refusing to pay back. He added that CBN should have taken this action before now, as various top banks executives had already been jailed or facing prosecution over similar issues. In his words,” Those debtors should repay or their properties will have to be seized. It was because of them that the banks executives were sent packing from their office while those people pretended to make some payment at that particular time and backed out later.

Agriculture has potential to grow the economy UDO ONYEKA

he Managing Director, Dizengoff Nigeria, a subsidiary of UK Balton Group, Mr Richard Hargrave has observed that non-oil export sector such as agricultural products is vital to the generation of foreign exchange income and employment for the country. Hargrave who made the observation at the official presentation of ‘Amiran Farmes Kit’ from Dizengoff in Lagos, yesterday said that agriculture has a lot of untapped potentials, which if adequately harnessed, would contribute towards the aspiration of Federal Government on making Nigeria one of the first 20 economies in the world by the year 2020. According to Hargrave following outstanding success in Kenya by Amiran Company using the innovative integrated so-

Nigeria imports 25,000 vehicles in 30 days FRANCIS EZEM

ehicle importation into Nigeria, has recorded yet another upsurge as a total of 25, 000 units of vehicles were imported into the country through her major seaports. The country had at the end of the first half of 2012 recorded an upsurge in the volume of vehicles imported through her major seaports, which peaked at 35.2 growth rate. This translates to the importation a total of 129, 389 units of automobiles as at the end of June, 2012, which came through the various seaports as against those of 95, 676 units imported in the comparative period of 2011. Meanwhile current statistics released by the Nigerian Ports

Authority shows that the vehicle traffic at the ports for July 2012 stood at 24,884 units, which represents a 29 percent growth rate over the 19, 292 units imported in the comparative period of July 2011. Expert are however of the view that the high volume of importation of automobiles is indicative of the fact that the indigenous automobile industry is not performing at optimal level, which prompted such huge importation, which translates to almost 1,000 units of vehicles per day, going by the July figures. Records show that the indigenous automobile industry has the capacity of produce over 150, 000 units annually which is capable of creating over 70,000 skilled jobs while another 210,000 semi-skilled

jobs would be created if it is meant to perform at full capacity. Automobile experts are also of the view that if government’s vision of producing automobiles locally were to be achieved, measures should be put in place to discourage the importation foreign made automobiles through increase in duty and other tariffs paid on imported fully built vehicles to 35 per cent and above, among several others. It was also gathered that the current total annual operating capacity of all the local assembly plants is valued at only about N30billion, which is insignificant when compared to the N550billion, which is the value of Nigeria’s annual installed vehicle assembly and manufacturing capacity at 150,000 units.

lution known as ‘Amiran Farmers Kit’ to revolutionalise the growing of tomato, Dizengoff Nigeria has brought the technology in Nigeria to boost the economy He said, “to produce sufficient quantities of food at affordable prices, and to meet the future demands of growing population, the Federal and the state government should make all imported materials necessary to grow food in Nigeria be made duty free. We believe that Government has a duty to eliminate complicated bureaucratic impediments in order to actually guarantee bank loans to young farmers who are serious on the business.” “A support to agriculture by the government would also be avenue to create jobs for the teeming young people in Nigeria. If the government develop interest in the ‘Amiran Farmers Kit’ many youths would be taken out of the streets and into the Kits to grow tomato all year round, day in and day out, on a commercially sustainable basis.

Etisalat targets 15 million subscribers in new promo KUNLE A ZEEZ

FRSC Zone 5, Benin Zonal Commander, Mr. George Olaniran and winner Second Palace FRSC/Oba of Benin Best Drivers’ Award, Mr. Elvis Eduware of the University Benin, during the 2012 edition sponsored by Globacom in Benin yesterday.

igeria’s fourth largest telecommunications network, Etisalat, said it expected to hit 15 million subscribers base soon, riding on the new promo it just launched for its existing and prospective subscribers on its network. In the new promo designed to mark the Nigeria’s 52nd Independence Anniversary and four years operations of Etisalat in Nigeria, the telecoms firm said it planned to give N1bn worth of airtime monthly to subscribers. Tagge, 9ja Free Credit promo, said it also expected to achieve increased its currently subscrib-

er base of about 14 million by additional 1 million to reach 15 million subscriber mark soon. Speaking at the promo launch, Director, Marketing Segments and Strategy, Mr. Oluwole Rawa, said having spent about four years in Nigeria, the amount of support and encouragement that Nigerians had given the company has been inspiring. “Within a span of almost four years, Etisalat has grown an impressive subscriber base of over 14 million which is remarkable in terms of growth compared to any networks in Nigeria and with this promo, we expect to push our subscriber base further to 15 million soon,” he said.

Final GUS contestants emerge on Sunday

fter undergoing a series of screening exercises, the final 12 contestants that will compete in this year’s edition of Gulder Ultimate Search are about to be revealed at a Final Selection Party. The party is scheduled to hold on Sunday, October 7, 2012, at the New Expo Hall of Eko Hotel, Lagos. This year, over 30,000 individuals registered to participate for Gulder Ultimate Search 9. After registration, the individuals had to undergo several physical and mental exercises at locations in Owerri, Benin, Makurdi and Lagos. Of the thousands that registered their interest, 30 individuals were selected and are currently in Lagos for the final selection process. Only 12 will proceed to the Usaka Forest in Obot Akara Local

Government area of Akwa Ibom State, where this year’s edition of Gulder Ultimate Search will hold. The winner walks away with N9 million, N500,000 swagger allowance and a brand new SUV worth N10 million. This is in addition to the bragging rights of being referred to as the Ultimate Man or Woman, with its numerous benefits. It is also expected that the ‘host(s)’ of Gulder Ultimate Search 9 will be revealed at the event. Last year, two anchors hosted the programme for the first time in the show’s nine year history. It remains to be seen whether the show will retain the Gulder Ultimate Search 8 two-anchor format, or whether it will revert to the single anchor format as in the show’s preceding years.

Maritime

NIGERIA @ 52

Friday, October 5, 2011

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Nigeria’s transport sector: Still in slow motion FRANCIS EZEM

igeria’s transport system has no doubt had its fair share of the economic and political hiccups that have characterised political and socio-economic development in post independence era since 52 years ago. From shipping, rail to land transportation, the entire gamut of the transport sector in Nigeria has gone through one form of reform or the other. These major segments of the transport sector have also witnessed several policy summersaults such as every other sector of the economy. At political independence in 1960, the two major means of movement of people and goods were the rail and the roads, with little or nothing heard of inland water transportation. This was also a function of the economic realities of that time. Prior to the country’s independence, many of the economic activities were centred on agriculture, which provided basic source of raw materials for colonial firms. So rail transport for instance provided veritable means of movement of raw materials such as logs of wood and rubber, among several others. There were maritime activities in Nigeria in the pre-colonial era, but real developments in the industry effectively commenced in 1906 with the opening up of the Lagos Lagoon. However what could be termed a shipping policy direction could be traced to 1948 when the first four berths and 41 hectres of reclamation was done at Apapa Port up to 1954 when the Port Act was enacted and subsequent creation of Nigerian Ports Authority in 1955. Thus in 1960 when Nigeria eventually attained political independence, the number of berths had increased to five (four in Apapa and one in Port Harcourt), which then gave the country the status of a maritime nation. From 1960 to date, the shipping industry has also enjoyed a better policy direction, which had also boosted infrastructural development. For instance, the Federal Military Government in the late 1960s established the Nigerian National Shipping Line (NNSL) designed to provide the needed tonnage for Nigeria’s growing economy. It was also to provide vessels for the sea time training experience for cadets trained at the Maritime Academy of Nigeria, (MAN) Oron in present day Akwa Ibom State. The establishment of the academy was also in line with the government’s policy direction of building indigenous capacity. The national carrier at a point in time had in excess of 20 ocean-going vessels on her fleet. Regrettably, due to a combination of corruption, government interference in the day-day running of the company, the NNSL collapsed. The maritime industry has also more than road and rail transport witnessed infrastructural development. The inadequacy of the Apapa and Port Harcourt Ports led to the building of the Tin Can Island Port. The demand for more ports and to reduce the pressure on the existing ones also brought about the construction of seaports like Calabar, Sapele, Brutu, Onne and Warri. The construction of Onne Ports Complex was significance apart from being a world-class facility comprising of the Federal Ocean Terminal and the Federal Lighter Terminal, designed to handles Nigeria’s oil and gas activities, it was developed through a public/private partnership. There have also been some policy frameworks introduced to address maritime issues as they arose. For instance, with the demise of the NNSL, the government came up with the National Shipping Policy Decree of 1987, which created the defunct National Maritime Authority. The Decree also created two capacity building schemes, which include the ship acquisition and ship building fund (SASBF), a revolving low-interest loan to enable indigenous shipping companies to acquire ships and further boost tonnage. The other scheme was the 40-40-20 cargo sharing formula. The NMA was basically created to administer the SAS-

Oil vessel

TODAY, NONE OF THE SEAPORTS IS LINKED TO THE RAILS; THE ROADS ARE NOT ALSO LINKED TO THE RAILS AND SO, THERE IS NO INTEGRATION OF THE VARIOUS TRANSPORT SYSTEMS IN NIGERIA 52 YEARS AFTER INDEPENDENCE BF as well as the cargo sharing formular created to bridge the gap between the more established foreign shipping companies and their fledging indigenous counterparts. The SASBF has since been scrapped because the first batch of beneficiaries refused to pay back the revolving loan while the cargo sharing scheme was also scrapped. The port concession probably represents the biggest historical event in Nigeria’s march towards efficient and user-friendly port system. Thus the government in 2003 undertook a reform of the ports to make them efficient, effective and user-friendly. This reform, which adopted the Antwerp Port, Belgium landlord model, followed a careful study by the Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE) through the World Bank. Thus, NPA was stripped of its cargo handling functions to become the landlord; collecting royalties on behalf of the government. It also renders services like towage and pilotage as well as dredging of channels etc. For this purpose, all the eight seaports were delineated into 26 terminals on a long term lease of between 10-25 years. Unfortunately this model has not fully achieved the desired results due to government’s failure to put the necessary legal and institutional framework in place before the exercise. The consequence is that today, there are private terminal operators without a commercial regulator to monitor charges and enforce compliance with the concession agreement. So these terminal operators and shipping companies, whose only language is profit, impose all manner of charges on port users, thus making the country’s ports one of the most expensive in the world. This has also resulted in cargo diversion to neighbouring African countries with the attendant revenue loss to the government. On building capacity for indigenous operators, government is at the verge of the review of the Coastal and Inland Shipping (Cabotage) Act to enhance the participation of indigenous shipping companies. In terms of rail development, Nigeria has not achieved much. This segment of the transport sector, which used to be the biggest employer of labour, has recorded a massive decline over the years. Most of the rail systems are still characterised by the narrow gauge built by the colonial

masters long before the independence of the country. Assistant Director in charge of Public Relations of the Nigerian Railway Corporation, Mr. David Ndakotsu, who painted a gory picture of the decline of the rail system in Nigeria, noted that 20 years ago, more than 25,000 people were employed by the corporation but said that currently the number has reduced to less than 4,000. Minister of Information, Mr. Labaran Maku, in a recent ministerial briefing organised by the Ministry of Transport lamented the failure of successive governments in the country to fix the transport system, especially the rail transport. Statistics available to National Mirror show that in India as densely populated as it is, rail transport constitutes over 80 percent of the means of movement of goods and people unlike in Nigeria where it constitutes less than two percent even with her smaller population. The Minister had also admitted that the inland waterways system constitutes another area of shame, as the country is yet to tap less than one percent of the potential that abound in her inland transport system as a means of mass movement of people and goods. The effect of the neglect of these two important and cheaper means of mass movement of people and goods has been the over-dependence on the roads, with the attendant high cost of maintenance. Due to a combination of corruption and paucity of funds, most of the roads in the country are in a sorry state, making road transportation, which is the most popular means of transport a nightmare. A transport and logistics expert and National Executive Director of Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport, Mr. Francis Ehiguese, while assessing the Nigerian transport sector, estimated that Nigeria loses over 30 percent value of her Gross Domestic Product annually to inefficient transport system. He partly attributed this to the absence of a National Transport Policy. “In 1993 the first National Transport Policy was presented by the Federal Government and today, it has remained a draft”, he regretted. Mr Ehiguese said “Today, none of the seaports is linked to the rails; the roads not also linked to the rails and so there is no integration of the various transport systems in Nigeria 52 years after independence”. But the information minister also assured that the President Goodluck Jonathan’s administration is committed to addressing these inadequacies. According to him, in line with the administration’s vision of achieving the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and those of the Vision 20-20-20, by which Nigeria projects to emerge one the 20 biggest economies of the world by year 2020, the government is working towards revamping the various decayed transport infrastructure, under which it is working on a level of public-private sector participation.

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Maritime

Friday, October 5, 2012

‘Enforcement of N6bn court judgement will sink NIMASA’ STORIES: FRANCIS EZEM

he Nigeria Maritime Administration and Safety Agency has said that if nothing urgent was done to vacate a recent Federal High Court judgment, which awarded N6billion to an indigenous shipping company for damages arising from alleged illegal detention, the agency’s ability to enforce safety regulations in the country might be seriously hampered. Hensmor, an indigenous shipping company had dragged the agency to court over its decision in 2006 to arrest and detain MT Agbonmien, which certificates and other relevant documents had expired one year earlier in line with its safety enforcement regulation duties claiming N6billion, which the court awarded prompting an appeal by NIMASA. Director General of the agency, Mr. Patrick Akpobolokemi, raised this alarm when he delivered a paper entitled: Enforcement Regulation of Safety: the Nigerian experience at the just concluded 2012 edition of the International Maritime Organisation World Maritime Day celebration on the theme: 100 years after the Titanic, which held in Calabar, Cross River State. The director general noted that the greatest challenge faced by the regulatory agency in the enforcement of safety regulations, which is one of its core functions was the poor state of most of the ships owned and managed by indigenous ship owners, many of which do not the scruitiny of the minimum requirements on safety as laid down by the IMO. According to him, attempts by the agency to enforce minimum standard has been resisted by the operators, many of who cry foul

L-R: Governor Liyel Imoke of Cross River State, Minister of Transport, Mallam Idris Umar and Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Mr. Nebolisa Emodi at the International Maritime Organisation World Maritime Day which held in Calabar, recently.

that they are being muzzled out of business, regretting that an offer made by the agency to the Indigenous Ship Owners Association of Nigeria, umbrella body for all indigenous shipping companies to assist them repair their vessels was rejected. While narrating the ordeal of the agency in the hands of indigenous shipping firms, he cited a graphic example of Hensmor, which vessel; MT Agbonmien was reportedly unable to sail out of Waziri Jetty due to major mechanical fault and was subsequently discovered to be carrying expired papers after surveys only for the company to sue the agency. Akpobolokemi had argued that the court could reason with the agency that a vessel which certificates had expired, is not sea worthy and was therefore, liable to detention in line with relevant statutes, which are clear and inconvertible.

Apart from the poor state of indigenously owned vessels, the DG also disclosed that another major challenge faced by the agency in the enforcement of safety regulations was the lack of capacity in terms of human and infrastructural, regretting that until about two years ago when he came on board, no conscious effort was made by past managements of the agency to build such capacity. According to him, it was faced with this major challenge that the agency went into a Public – Private sector Partnership with Global West for the supply of platforms to enable it carry out its core mandates, which among others include safety regulations, adding that the agency has recruited new marine surveyors to boost its work in this direction. Another challenge, it was gathered was limited resources and the huge logistic requirements in the removal of wrecks

and derelicts, which constitute safety and navigational hazards. The agency is also faced with the problem of drawing a line between the enforcement of maritime safety and security, both which are the same sides of a coin. This arises given the provision of the Armed Forces Act, which provides that it is the primary responsibility of the Nigerian Navy to ensure maritime security on Nigeria’s waters even as other agencies of government like NIMASA and the Nigeria Customs Service play complementary roles. Meanwhile, Minister of Transport, Mallam Idris Umar, while speaking at the event had assured that the Federal Government more than ever before is committed to ensuring safety and security of navigation within Nigeria’s territorial waters and her Exclusive Economic Zone.

Group canvasses merger of Apapa, Lilypond Customs commands

mporters under the aegis of Nigerian Importers Advocacy and Support Group has made a strong case for a collapse of the Lilypond Command into the Apapa Area 1 Command of the Nigeria Customs Service, which is bigger and better positioned to carry out import inspection duties. The call by the association is against the backdrop of the fact that Lilypond is a dry port and most of the containers cleared from there are originally transferred from Apapa Port. Executive Secretary of the association, Mr. Adebayo Famoroti, who made the call in Lagos, said the fusion had become necessary to ensure seamless transactions

at the Lagos Port Complex, Apapa, which is covered by the Apapa command of the service. According to him, there has been a drastic reduction in the number of container that are transferred to Lilypond command because most importers now prefer to receive their containers at Apapa, which is the main terminal. “The main problem for us importers is that when you make any payment at Apapa Port and your container is transferred to Lilypond, it becomes almost impossible to clear your consignment from Lilypond because until that payment is received at Lilypond, you won’t be able to clear your container.

We believe that if Lilypond is under Apapa Command then this kind of problem will not arise”, the secretary argued. He also noted that the various off dock facilities under Tin Can Island Port do not have separate customs commands but are all under the Tin Can Customs command, a situation which has made it possible for seamless transactions at the bonded terminals and has helped them in attracting patronage. “Offdock facilities are extension of the main port facilities and the customs at the main ports should supervise their operation”, he said. He also blamed the low level

of activities at Lilypond on the lack of a unified customs command in charge of both Apapa Port and Lilypond terminal. On the reasons for the formation of the new association, he said: “To champion the cause of importers who are often ignored in the decision- making process despite being the owners of the cargo”. While assessing the performance of Customs in Nigeria, he faulted the practice of setting targets for the service, a development he said leads to desperation on the part of the various commands to meet revenue target against all odds even to the detriment of trade facilitation and national security.

APMT emerges best terminal operator

PM Terminals was once again named “Port Operator of the Year” for 2012 at the prestigious Lloyd’s List Global Awards Gala held in London on September 26. The annual award, presented by Lloyd’s List, an industry publication covering the shipping world since 1732, is given in recognition of the company or port authority that has maintained the highest standards of operational efficiency and customer service throughout the year through exceptional innovation, improved efficiency, profitability or successful investment in port operations. APM Terminals was also named Lloyd’s List Port Operator of the Year at the 2009 Global Awards. Vice President APM Terminals in charge of Corporate Strategy and Business Development, Mr. Francois Delenclos, received the award on behalf of the company. Amongst the finalists in the port operator category were Global Ports Investments, APM Terminals’ new joint venture partner in Russia. Some of the first colleagues to congratulate Francois Delenclos were executives from Global Ports, who were also present at the event. The judging panel, comprised of veteran shipping industry experts stated that they were impressed by the $3 billion in infrastructure investments made during the past year across APM Terminals’ Global Terminal Network. These investments encompasses interests in 70 port facilities in 40 countries, and cited APM Terminals’ commitment to growth based upon “the highest standards of ethical and sustainable business practices”, praising APM Terminals’ tangible results in improvement of Safety Performance and reduction of CO2 emissions.

Chairman, APMT, Earnest Sonekan

Capital Market

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Friday, October 5, 2012

ASI rises 1% as core investor takes over Dangote Flour JOHNSON OKANLAWON

angote Flour Mills Plc emerged the most actively traded stock on the Nigerian Stock Exchange yesterday, folowing a divestment of 3.17 billion shares worth N30.1bn in 94 deals to Tiger Brand, the core investor in the company. The sale of the shares was done at N9.50 per share, after regulators’ approval last month. With the deal, Dangote Industries Limited retains a 10 per cent stake in the flour miller com-

pany. Meanwhile, trading in equities continued on bullish note yesterday, as investors’ appetite on stocks rose further. The NSE All-Share Index gained 1.00 per cent to close at 26,448.61 points, compared to the increase of 0.04 per cent recorded the preceding day to close at 26,187.61 points. Market capitalisation appreciated by N83.1bn to close at N8.42trn, lower than the rise of N52.4bn recorded the preceding day to close at N8.33trn.

Union Bank of Nigeria Plc led the gainers’ table with 76 kobo or 9.93 per cent to close at N8.41 per share, followed by Acedemy Press Plc with 15 kobo or 9.15 per cent to close at N1.79 per share. AIICO Plc gained five kobo or 8.77 per cent to close at 62 kobo per share, while Dangote Sugar Plc increased by 36 kobo or 7.20 per cent to close at N5.36 per share. Access Bank Plc rose by 45 kobo or 5.17 per cent to close at N9.15 per share. On the flip side, Custodian Insurance Plc dropped 12 kobo or eight

per cent to close at N1.38 per share, while Arbico Plc dipped by 46 kobo or 4.90 per cent to close at N8.93 per share. Air Service Plc lost 11 kobo or 4.85 per cent to close at N2.16 per share, while Livestock Plc declined by eight kobo or 4.60 per cent to close at N1.66 per share. Transcorp Plc shed five kobo or 3.97 per cent to close at N1.21 per share. A total of 3.63 billion shares valued at N32.5bn were exchanged in 4,731 deals, compared to 326.07 million shares worth N2.42bn traded in 5,301 deals the preceding day.

FBN Heritage Fund records 13.1% growth JOHNSON OKANLAWON

he FBN Heritage Fund has recorded N11.73 or 13.13 per cent price appreciation, as the fund rose from a bid price of N89.28 in 2010 to N101.01 on the Nigerian Stock Exchange last week. A further review of its price movement showed that the fund closed the 2011 financial year with a bid price of N90.10, compared to the corresponding year’s bid price of N89.28. In the review period, the fund outperformed the NSE All-Share Index

by 6.1 per cent, generating a return of 0.92 per cent, in contrast to the Exchange ASI, which declined by 5.18 per cent. According to the fund manager, Mr. Michael Oyebola, the firm has its sights firmly placed on ensuring further reward for investors as the the portfolio has been restructured to help investors harness the opportunities available in the equities market and money market. He explained that the restructuring facilitated the freeing up of investment capital for application to other investment assets.

Oyebola said, “For the money market, we positioned ourselves to take advantage of the high interest rates on both tenured deposits as well as Treasury Bills and continue to ensure that we achieve the best return possible on investments made within the confines of the asset allocation as prescribed by the trust deed and the investment policy of the fund. “Our set target was to achieve the par (N100.00) value of the fund to reward investors who has remained loyal to the fund and we continue to be encour-

aged by the performance growth so far and believe that we are not far from where we want to be. Our promise is to ensure above benchmark returns for investors in the years ahead.” A review of its second quarter performance showed that the fund had a positive return of 4.02 per cent during the quarter ended June 30, 2012, as against the 4.59 per cent return of the NSE. Year- to- date, the fund had a positive return of 6.02 per cent, as against 4.19 per cent of the Exchange ASI.

US stocks rise on economic reports

nited States stocks rose yesterday, sending the Standard and Poor’s 500 Index higher for a fourth day, as reports on jobless claims and factory orders were better than forecast and the European Central Bank said it stands ready to buy bonds. All 10 industry groups in the S&P 500 advanced. Financial and commodity companies rose the most, climbing at least 0.9 per cent, as Bank of America Corporation and Consol Energy Incorporation rallied more than 3.1 per cent. TJX Cos. and Tar-

get Corporation gained among retailers after September same-store sales topped estimates. Ryder System Incorporation jumped 5.5 per cent amid an analyst upgrade. The S&P 500 increased 0.6 per cent to 1,460.29 points. The benchmark index has rallied 1.4 per cent this week. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 83.04 points, or 0.6 per cent, to 13,577.65 points yesterday, as trading in S&P 500 companies was 19 per cent above the 30-day average. “In the last several weeks, we have coordinat-

ed global monetary stimulus, and that’s starting to show up in the change of trends in American economic statistics,” Douglas Cote, chief market strategist at New Yorkbased ING US Investment Management, said. “Employment, manufacturing, services and consumer sentiment have all gone from weakening to strengthening.” US stocks rose as Labor Department figures showed applications for jobless benefits increased 4,000 to 367,000 in the week ended September 29. Economists forecast

370,000 claims, according to the median estimate in a Bloomberg survey. Orders placed with US factories fell 5.2 per cent in August, the Commerce Department said. The median forecast of economists in a Bloomberg News survey called for a decline of 5.9 per cent. ECB President Mario Draghi said the bank is ready to start buying government bonds as soon as the necessary conditions are fulfilled. The ECB kept interest rates unchanged at a historic low of 0.75 per cent.

Source: NSE

Source: Afrinvest

Market indicators All-Share Index 22,492.96 points Market capitalisation 7,180 trillion

Stock Updates GAINERS COMPANY

OPENING

CLOSING

CHANGE

% CHANGE

UBN

7.65

8.41

0.76

9.93

ACADEMY

1.64

1.79

0.15

9.15

AIICO

0.57

0.62

0.05

8.77

DANGSUGAR

5.00

5.36

0.36

7.20

ACCESS

8.70

9.15

0.45

5.17

CADBURY

25.00

26.25

1.25

5.00

ASHAKACEM

15.21

15.97

0.76

5.00

JBERGER

27.50

28.87

1.37

4.98

LEARNAFRCA

2.01

2.11

0.10

4.98

OANDO

12.78

13.41

0.63

4.93

LOSERS COMPANY CUSTODYINS

OPENING

CLOSING

1.50

1.38

CHANGE

% CHANGE

0.12

-8.00

ARBICO

9.39

8.93

0.46

-4.90

AIRSERVICE

2.27

2.16

0.11

-4.85

LIVESTOCK

1.74

1.66

0.08

-4.60

TRANSCORP

1.26

1.21

0.05

-3.97

UTC

0.76

0.73

0.03

-3.95

PRESCO

15.57

15.28

0.29

-1.86

JAPAULOIL

0.62

0.61

0.01

-1.61

NASCON

6.09

6.00

0.09

-1.48

OKOMUOIL

37.01

36.50

0.51

-1.38

Primary Market Auction TENOR

AMOUNT (N’mn)

RATE (%)

DATE

91-Day

21,838.51

14.09

27-Sep-12

182-Day

59,081.14

15.05

27-Sep-12

Open Market Operations TENOR

AMOUNT (N’mn)

RATE (%)

DATE

366-Days

193,954.35

16.20

04-Oct-12

Wholesale Dutch Auction System AMOUNT OFFERED

MARKET DEMAND

AMOUNT SOLD

DATE

$200m

N/A

$177m

04-Oct-12

$200m

N/A

$200m

26-Sep-12

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Friday, October 5, 2012

Capital Market

Friday, October 5, 2012

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Stock exchange daily equities summary Equities as at October 4, 2012 1st Tier Securities

1st Tier Securities Sector

Company name

No Of Deals

Quotation(N)

Quantity Traded

Value of Shares(N)

Sector

Company name

No Of Deals

Quotation(N)

Quantity Traded

Value of Shares(N)

Friday, October 5, 2012

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Community Mirror “If we compare the enormous resources we have with the rate which we have progressed, certainly we have not done enough.” FORMER ONDO STATE GOVERNOR, DR. OLUSEGUN AGAGU

Grandpa banished for defiling 3-year-old girl CHRIS NJOKU OWERRI

70-year-old man, Pa Magnus Okechukwu, has been banished from Utulu in Oru West Local Government Area of Imo State, for three years for allegedly defiling a three year old girl whom he lured into his bedroom. It was reliably gathered that the randy grandfather, had invited the minor to his apartment to run an errand for him but later took advantage of the little girl’s innocence. The little girl identified as Chiamaka, went to Pa Okechukwu’s residence at 7pm without knowing that the grandpa would defile her. Okechukwu, said to be married with children had after satisfying his lust, warned little Chiamaka not to let anyone know about the evil act lest she would be killed. When the victim returned home, the mother who had been frantically searching for her was shocked when she observed blood coming out from the private parts and therefore raised an alarm. “When I saw my daughter, her clothes were torn and she

was weeping and bleeding at the same time. I asked her what happened, she said Pa Okechukwu tore her clothes and raped her at

that time I raised an alarm to attract passers-by”. When contacted, the traditional ruler of the community, Eze Sunday Nnabue, declined

Sympathisers S thi ttrying i tto rescue victims i ti att an accident id t scene on Benin-Ore highway recently. Inset: A woman victim.

Warring Oba, Baale sanctioned FEMI OYEWESO ABEOKUTA

ndications have emerged that the two traditional rulers in Ogun State, who recently engaged in a free-for-all at the Police Divisional Headquarters in Itori, Olu of Itori, Oba Akorede Fatai Akamo and Baale of Lapenleke, Chief Adisa Akinremi, may be severely sanctioned by the Ewekoro Council of Obas and Baales over their shameful act. Community Mirror, reliably gathered that plans are underway to sanction the two traditional rulers by the council under the chairmanship of Oba Olufemi Ogunleye , the Towulade Akinale. According the Towulade Akinale, Oba Ogunleye, the council would forward a petition to the state governor for possible sanc-

comments on the matter, stating that he could not discuss such in public. But Chairman of the community, Ochamaka Anozie,

tion of the two traditional rulers for dragging the institution of Obas in the mud. It was also gathered that the Ogun State Police Command, had already interrogated the two traditional rulers following disagreement on traditional matters. It would be recalled that the Olu of Itori, Oba Akorede Fatai Akamo and the Baale of Lapenleke, Chief Adisa Akinremi, engaged in physical combat,in what many has described as a show of shame. One of them, Oba was said to have gone to the Divisional Police Headquarters in Itori to lodge a complaint that his brother Oba, Akamo, had allegedly disrupted an annual festival within his community. Oba Akamo who was said to have honoured to defend himself of the allegations and was

said to have got agitated and allegedlyhit Baale Akinremi on the face. Aside the Ewekoro Council of Obas and Baales, it was further gathered that the two Obas were had earlier been summoned by the Alake of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Gbadebo as well as the Olowu before they appeared at Eleweran police headquarters yesterday. Although details of what transpired remained sketchy as at production time, but sources close to the palaces lamented what they described as ugly development among the two traditional rulers. Also, a press statement by the State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Muyiwa Adejobi acknowledged that the two traditional rulers were still under interrogation at the force Criminal and Investigations Department (SCID).

confirmed the incident, saying that the punitive measure was taken to serve as a deterrent to others who may want to indulge in such ungodly act.

PHOTO: SAM EFERARO

Market leader alleges threat to life NWABUEZE OKONKWO ONITSHA

eader of the Bridge-head market traders, Sir Peter Okala, has accused the transition committee chairman of Onitsha South Local Government Area of Anambra State, Mr. Ugochukwu Ezeani, of threatening his life and that of his family. Consequently, Okala has petitioned the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), to order investigate the allegation in order to save them from annihilation. In the petition of October 1, entitled, “Threat to life and acts likely to breach public peace at Bridgehead market, Onitsha South LGA of Anambra State”, the petitioner, through his legal counsel, Chibuike Nwabueze, had complained that hoodlums are being used to threaten him. The petitioner further alleged that Ezeani and some thugs have

concluded plans to physically eliminate him, and members of his family. He further alleged that someone privy to a meeting where the plans were hatched had revealed of plans to attack him. He recalled that his offence was that, he led a peaceful demonstration against the proposed demolition of market stalls belonging to indigent traders and demanding for refund of money allegedly extorted from them by Ezeani. To confirm his suspicion, he claimed that Ezeani reacted to the allegations in some national dailies where he called him unprintable names. But responding, Ezeani said the proposed demolition of illegal structures was a people oriented policy of the Peter Obi administration in the state, which is meant to rid major cities of illegal structures to conform with development plans.

Friday, October 5, 2012

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

North

Friday, October 5, 2012

‘ACN leaders sold S’West for N16bn during 2011 poll’ A ZA MSUE KADUNA

he Kaduna State chapter of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) has explained why the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) won in the South-West during the 2011 presidential election. It said that despite the fact that ACN controlled all the states in the South-West, except Ondo, PDP was able to win because ACN nation-

al leaders sold the region to President Goodluck Jonathan for N16 billion. In a statement made available to National Mirror yesterday, the Kaduna State Chairman of ACN, Mohammed Musa Soba, accused the ACN national leaders of masterminding the crisis rocking the party in the state. Soba, however, described the alleged move by the national officials of the party to drag the Kaduna State Govern-

ment and the State Independent Electoral Commission (SIECOM) to court in order to stop the forthcoming local government election as an empty threat. Soba said the party constitution only empowered state executives to sack him, adding that the national officials could not “implement their bias agenda” against him. He said trouble started when he asked the party’s national leaders

to clarify the allegation that they sold the SouthWest to President Goodluck Jonathan for N16 billion during the 2011 presidential election. Sobo’s statement reads: “The threats by some national officers of the ACN to drag the Kaduna State Government and the Kaduna State Independent Electoral Commission (SIECOM) to court to stop the forthcoming local government election over the latter’s recognition of Mr. Mohammed Musa

Soba as the duly elected chairman of the party in Kaduna State is an empty threat and an emotional blackmail that exposes Lai Mohammed as an impostor whose intellect has been badly infected by intellectual virus to the extent that he does not know the definitions of law and democracy anymore. “A rogue leadership is one that collected N16 billion from the PDP, delivered the South-West to the PDP in the 2011 presidential election and

shamelessly turn round to accuse the PDP of corruption and stealing of public funds. “We challenge Lai Mohammed and the National Secretary of the Party, Senator Lawal Shuaibu, to tell the whole world why state chapters like Enugu, Ebonyi, Abia, Cross Rivers, Bayelsa, Akwa Ibom, Nassarawa, Plateau, Bauchi, Gombe, Yobe, Borno, Adamawa, Taraba and Kaduna are all facing national leadership-induced crises.”

Gombe spends N11.7bn on schools, infrastructure

Students of Federal Polytechnic and College of Health Technology, Mubi, Adamawa State, leaving Mubi in droves following the attack on their hostels on Independence Day, yesterday.

DPP candidate accuses PDP of plot to rig Plateau by-election JAMES A BRAHAM JOS

he Democratic Peoples Party (DPP) candidate for the Plateau North Senatorial by-election, Col. John David Dungs (rtd), has accused the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) of planning to rig tomorrow’s poll. Col. Dungs alleged that PDP had printed ballot papers to rig the election.

AUGUSTINE MADUWEST KANO

he Kano Stateowned Triumph Publishing Company has been closed down by the government. The government has consequently directed the company’s workers to report to the state Head of Service for redeployment to other agencies. Moments after the clo-

Addressing a press conference at the NUJ Secretariat yesterday in Jos, he also accused the state security outfit known as “Operation Rainbow” of conniving with the ruling PDP to ensure that the election is rigged in the party’s favour. Col. Dungs said: “We are aware that the ruling PDP has printed ballot papers in another state to be brought to Plateau to rig the elec-

tion. I am aware that the party is also busy buying voters’ cards. But we want to make it clear that the state is tired of any acts that could cause another crisis. Let the people be allowed to vote the leader of their choice’’. The Conference of Nigerian Political Parties (CNPP) has, however, announced the candidate of the All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA), Ambassador

Chris Giwa, as its consensus senatorial candidate for the poll. CNPP Chairman in Plateau State, Alhaji Yusuf Kanam, said yesterday at a press conference held in Jos that Giwa was chosen because of his credibility and track records of achievements. He said that the decision by the CNPP to present a single candidate was to enable it defeat the ruling PDP.

Kano publishing company shut sure last night, security operatives dispatched to the complex ordered the workers to vacate the premises. It will be recalled that for the past six months, the publishing outfit had been grappling with financial crisis, a situation that compelled the state government to bail it out with N50 million a few months ago.

It was learnt that the government’s intervention was part of measures to support the firm to become self-sustaining, which eventually failed to materialize, resulting in an outstanding three months salary arrears owed the workers. The state government has, therefore, promised to pay the three months salary arrears today.

As at the time of filing this report, some of the workers gathered in groups outside the publishing outfit discussing the development. Efforts to contact the state government for their reaction failed, as those contacted were not willing to comment on the issue. They said the issue was beyond them.

he Gombe State Government has awarded N11.7 billion contract for the construction of schools and provision of infrastructure for them. The Commissioners for Education, Mrs. Aishatu Mohammed, and her Higher Education counterpart, Dr Isa Wade, stated this while addressing journalists after the state executive council meeting on Wednesday in Gombe. Mrs. Mohammed said the state government had spent N6.5 billion on the construction of schools, purchase of textbooks, exercise books and other instructional materials for secondary and primary schools.

She said: “Government has also embarked on the turnaround maintenance of seven secondary schools across the state, as well as the construction of some classrooms in some Almajiri schools.’’ On his part, Wade said over N5.2 billion contract had been awarded for the construction of two institutions. “These are the School of Basic and Remedial Studies (SBRS) in Kumo and the College of Education (COE) in Billiri,’’ he said. The commissioner said that while N4.2 billion was spent on SBRS Kumo, over N900m had been spent on the College of Education in Billiri.

Kwara gets frame work for budget preparation WOLE ADEDEJI ILORIN

he Kwara State House of Assembly has approved a medium term fiscal frame work as a working document for the state and local government areas. The framework is said to the guideline to use in preparing annual budgets between 2013 and 2015. By the approval, the state and the councils’ expenditure and revenue generation will henceforth be guided by the frame work. Deputy Speaker of the House, Prof. Mohammed Yisa Gana, who presided over the sitting in which the document was approved, praised the state governor for allowing his administration to be guided by the rule of law. The House Majority Lead-

er, Hon. AbdulGaniyu Abdulkareem, explained that the frame work would enhance transparency and accountability in governance. The Chief Whip of the House, Hon. Audu Seidu Liman, emphasised the significance of planning, saying that the framework would block leakages in ministries, departments and agencies of government. The House has also urged the state governor, Alhaji AbdulFatah Ahmed, to approve the channelisation of the runoff way from Danialu community along Gaa AkanbiAgbabiaka Road. The House made the resolution after receiving a report of the Committee on Energy, Works and Transport titled: “Appeal to correct the wrong channelisation of flood at Danialu along Gaa Akanbi-Agbabiaka Road.”

News

Friday, October 5, 2012

NUT wants Federal Teaching Service Commission established IJEOMA EZEIKE ABUJA

he Nigerian Union of Teachers (NUT) yesterday demanded the establishment of Federal Teaching Service Commission (FTSU). NUT said that establishing FTSU would give teaching the dignity that other professions have enjoyed over the years. NUT National President, Mr. Micheal Olukoya, spoke at the inauguration of the Federal Unity Schools’ teachers as federal wing of the union and members of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC). Olukoya said: “The union is demanding for the Federal Teaching Service Commission like the Federal Civil Service Commission, the Judicial Service Commission and the Legislative Service Commission in order to accord teachers the right status they deserve at the federal level.” Celebrating the unionisation of teachers of the Federal Government Colleges into the NUT, Olu-

koya said their denial of membership in the professional body they belong to was “illegal, undemocratic and at best, an aberration.” He said NUT had been empowered to unionise teachers employed in educational institutions of all types, excluding universities, polytechnics, Colleg-

es of Education and other tertiary institutions. Chairman of the caretaker committee of federal unity schools, Mr. Alex Emeka Okonta, said teachers have a voice that should be listened to. He called on the authorities concerned to pay all outstanding allowances owed the teachers.

Govt worried over increasing death from heart diseases MARCUS FATUNMOLE ABUJA

he Federal Government has expressed concern over the death toll arising from heartrelated diseases in Nigeria. Minister of State for Health, Dr Ali Pate, expressed the concern yesterday at a briefing commemorating this year’s World Heart Day in Abuja. Pate said: “Cardiovas-

he Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) yesterday asked residents of flood-prone areas to relocate to safer places to avoid loss of lives and property. LASEMA Head of Operation, Mr. Olusegun Mag-

nus-Davis, said that those whose buildings were located on the low-line areas may experience flooding. He urged residents of communities identified as low-line to relocate. According to him, some of the areas are: Ajegunle/Owode-Elede, Ijora/ Badia, Apapa/Igamu, Aradagun in Badagry, Jakande area in Eti-Osa

and Alimosho Local Government Area. Mr. Magnus-Davis explained that the prediction by the Federal Ministry of Environment of heavy rain is a natural disaster in waiting. He recalled that other parts of the world have also witnessed the situation, which he said is one of the consequences of cli-

Fresh attack in Adamawa poly CONTINUED FROM 5

the innocent would not suffer for the sins of villains like the gunmen. “The police should not arrest those fleeing in the name of making a breakthrough. Security agencies must fish out the gunmen and there should be no cover up. “CAN believe in the oneness of Nigeria in accordance with her secular status and would, therefore, kick against any divisive actions of groups or individuals. “It is for this reason that we call on all men

cular diseases (CVDs) and non-communicable diseases in general are posing an increasing burden to the health and wellbeing of people around the world. “Cardiovascular diseases claim 17.3 million lives a year, which is as many as HIV/ AIDS, tuberculosis, malaria and diabetes plus all forms of cancers and chronic respiratory diseases combined, are responsible for. “Globally, it is estimated

Wife of Ogun State Governor, Mrs. Olufunso Amosun (middle), attending to one of the participants, Mrs. Fausat Lawal, during the flag-off ceremony of breast and cervical cancer awareness and screening exercise at Olorunda Health Centre, Olorunda in Abeokuta North Local Government Area of the state, yesterday.

LASEMA asks residents of flood-prone areas to relocate MURITALA AYINLA

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

and women of goodwill in Nigeria to join the government to fight what may snowball into a religious or ethnic war on account of the siege.” The association urged the National Assembly to speed up the bill on antiterrorism and “introduce clauses that would discourage those with penchant for murder, bombing and other terrorist activities.” However, the presence of security agents, who massed on Mubi, following the massacre, is restricting access to the

town. The security checkpoints mounted by the Army and police restricted entry into the town, even as relations of the victims have begun making burial arrangements for the dead. Also, the three affected institutions – the Federal Polytechnic, the Adamawa State University and the College of Health Technology, all in Mubi - have been shut indefinitely. However, the Minister of Interior, Abba Moro, assured Nigerians that security agencies would soon unmask those behind the

mate change ravaging every parts of the world. He said: “Lives have no spare part; our people are of the habit of staying in a particular place for so many years and insisting that they cannot afford to vacate the place temporarily or permanent for any reason, therefore putting their lives in serious danger.” gruesome killings. The minister, in a statement yesterday by his Special Assistant on Media, George Udoh, said that those responsible for the heinous crime would be apprehended. Moro, who expressed sadness over the gruesome killings of the students, also described the act as “barbaric, senseless and horrifying”. He lamented that the act was committed just a few weeks after the killing of a former Comptroller-General of Prisons, Alhaji Ibrahim Jarma, by some gunmen in Azare, Bauchi State, in a similar circumstance.

that nearly one in three adults over the age of 25 will have high blood pressure by the year 2025. This one of the biggest single risk factors for heart disease and stroke, the world’s number one killer.” The minister, however, said the Federal Government would focus more on awareness creation on prevention of non-communicable diseases, which he said was taking heavy toll on people across the globe. Pate noted that women and children gave less attention to the causes of the diseases, while they were responsible for half of global deaths arising from non-communicable diseases. Stressing that the risk for CVDs could be mitigated, he advised that consumption of low fruits and vegetable intake, processed food, much fibre, cholesterol, harmful alcohol use, physical inactivity, much salt intake and obesity are all contributors to heart diseases. The minister added that the Ministry of Health had decided to step up efforts in ensuring the Tobacco Bill before the National Assembly is passed to, among other, to prevent young people from consuming alcohol.

We won’t approve Civil Defence, police merger –Reps F EMI O YEWESO ABEOKUTA

hair man of the House of Representatives Committee on Interior, Hon. Umar Bature, has said that the National Assembly would not support calls to merge the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) with the police. Bature spoke yesterday when he led a sixman team of the House committee on a tour of capital projects for the year 2012 to the NSCDC College of Security Management and the National Identity Management Commission in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital. Describing those calling for the merger as ignorant, mischievous as well as not having the interest of the country at heart, he

stressed that the job of the two agencies are different from each other. Bature said: “We will not support the calls for the merger of the two agencies. They have different roles; we call them Civil Defence and police. If you go by the definition of their names, they have different roles. Now, if you merge them, what happen? There will be conflict. “I challenge anybody to an open debate on why the Civil Defence should not be merged with the police and I will convince him why. But I believe it our duty to tell all those who do not understand the roles of Civil Defence. If the laws we have are not enough to make the people understand the roles the agency is playing, we can amend the laws”.

Friday, October 5, 2012

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

World News

“I will use standards of integrity, transparency when presenting my government line-up” – Libya’s Prime Minister-elect, Mustafa Abushagur

Tutu wins Mo Ibrahim $1m award PAUL ARHEWE

WITH AGENCY REPORTS

eteran peace campaigner Archbishop Desmond Tutu has been awarded $1 million by the Mo Ibrahim Foundation for “speaking truth to power”. The London-based Foundation called the cleric “one of Africa’s great voices for justice, freedom, democracy and responsible, responsive government”, BBC has reported. He won the Nobel Peace Prize - and 10m Swedish Krona (£935,000) - in 1984 for his campaign against apartheid. Archbishop Tutu responded by thanking his wife, Leah, for her guidance. “I have been very fortunate throughout my life to be surrounded by people of the highest caliber, beginning with my extraordinary wife,” said the archbishop in a statement. “It is these generous people who have guided, prodded, assisted, cajoled - and ultimately allowed me to take the credit.” The statement said the retired archbishop of Capetown was celebrating his and his wife’s birthdays with family and staff - he turns 81 on Sunday, while Mrs Tutu’s birthday is a week later. The South African cleric re-

mains outspoken on international affairs, and has been a fierce critic of Israel’s treatment of the Palestinians as well as China’s treatment of Tibetans. In August, he pulled out of a leadership summit in Johannesburg because he refused to share a platform with former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair. Archbishop Tutu said Mr Blair and former US President George W Bush should be tried at the International Criminal Court in The Hague for lying about Iraq’s weapons of mass destruction in order to justify invading the country. Blair issued a strongly worded defence of his decisions, rejecting the archbishop’s allegations as “completely wrong as every single independent analysis of the evidence has shown”. The Mo Ibrahim Foundation also offers an annual $5 million prize to a former African head of state for good governance. The most recent recipient of that award was Cape Verde’s former President, Pedro Verona Rodrigues Pires in 2011. Winners must have been democratically elected and agreed to leave office. In some years, the prize has not been awarded because no-one has been deemed a worthy enough winner. The winner of the 2012

prize, if it is awarded, would be announced later this month. Mo Ibrahim was born in 1946 and is a British-Sudanese mobile communications entrepreneur and philanthropist who made billions from investing in Africa. He argues that his foundation’s $5 million prize - the world’s most valuable individual prize - is needed because many leaders of sub-

Saharan African countries come from poor backgrounds and are tempted to hang on to power for fear that poverty is what awaits them when they give up the levers of power. The inaugural prize was awarded in 2007 to Joaquim Chissano, Mozambique’s former president, who has since acted as a mediator in several African disputes.

ing with 22-25%. Commentators said Romney appeared in command while Obama was hesitant. Obama has led national polls and surveys in the swing states that will decide the 6 November election. The BBC says if the gap nar-

L-R: President Barack Obama and Republican presidential nominee, Mitt Romney, laughing at the end of the first presidential debate in Denver, on Wednesday. PHOTO: REUTERS

Sudan and South Sudan will remain locked in conflict despite reaching a border security deal last week because they do not trust each other enough to resolve their biggest disputes, leading Sudanese opposition figure Hassan al-Turabi said. The two African countries have been wrangling over contested areas along the border and other issues since breaking apart last year under a peace deal that ended decades of civil war. Under pressure from the United Nations and African Union, the two agreed last Thursday to set up a demilitarized border zone and resume oil exports from the landlocked South after Juba shut them down in a row with Khartoum over transit fees.

Over 60 inmates escape from Liberian prison

Tutu

Romney wins TV debate with Obama – Poll S Republican candidate Mitt Romney won the first of three televised debates with President Barack Obama, polls and analysts say. After the 90-minute duel centring on taxes, the deficit and healthcare, polls gave Romney a 46-67% margin with Obama trail-

WORLD BULLETIN Sudan’s deal with South will not end conflict – Opposition

rows or Mitt Romney starts moving ahead of Obama, that will be a huge boost for his campaign, and suggest he could win the White House. However if they hardly budge, then the Republican challenger will be in deep trouble, the North America editor adds. President Obama appeared hesitant, occasionally asking moderator Jim Lehrer, of US public television network PBS, for time to finish his points. The two candidates attacked each other’s economic plans, with Obama describing his rival’s approach as “top-down economics” and a retread of Bushera policies. “If you think by closing [tax] loopholes and deductions for the well-to-do, somehow you will not end up picking up the tab, then Governor Romney’s plan may work for you,” he said. “But I think math, common

sense, and our history shows us that’s not a recipe for job growth.” Romney derided Obama’s policies as “trickle-down government”. “The president has a view very similar to the one he had when he ran for office four years ago, that spending more, taxing more, regulating more - if you will, trickledown government - would work,” Romney said. “That’s not the right answer for America.” Romney pledged not to reduce taxes for wealthy Americans, and said Obama had misrepresented Romney’s tax plans on the campaign trail. Both camps rushed to defend the respective performances. “The average person at home saw a president who you could trust,” Obama adviser David Plouffe told reporters. “That’s what the American people are looking for.”

State-run media says more than 60 inmates have broken out of prison in the West African nation of Liberia. Regional authorities and state radio said that authorities were combing nearby forests in an effort to re-arrest the escapees late Wednesday. The jailbreak took place at a maximum security prison in the south-eastern city of Zwedru on the border with Ivory Coast. The region is currently hosting tens of thousands of Ivorian refugees who fled in the wake of Ivory Coast’s postelection violence in late 2010 and early 2011.

Former Mexican opposition leader’s son shot dead The son of the embattled former leader of the Mexican political party set to take power in December was found shot to death in a town south of the U.S. border notorious for drug cartel violence, authorities said yesterday. Jose Eduardo Moreira, 28, the son of the former chairman of Mexico’s Institutional Revolutionary Party, or PRI, and ex-Coahuila state governor Humberto Moreira, was found shot to death near Ciudad Acuna, across the Rio Grande river from Texas, late on Wednesday, the state’s public safety director said. The son worked in the frontier town for the state government now led by his uncle, Ruben Moreira, had been reported missing several hours earlier. Ciudad Acuna is a key transit point for powerful cartels hauling drugs to Texas. It was not immediately clear if Moreira’s murder was linked to organized crime in the city.

TRANSITION

Friday, October 5, 2012

Abdu-Lateef Oladimeji Adegbite

he Secretary-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), Dr Lateef Adegbite passed on at his Lagos residence on September 28, 2012 at the age of 79 years. The Baba Adinni of Egbaland was born on March 20, 1933 into a Moslem home in Egba, Abeokuta, Ogun State. He attended Methodist School, Abeokuta and an Arabic School. Later, at age of nine years, he entered St. Paul’s Primary School, Igbore, Abeokuta in 1942. He was awarded a scholarship to attend King’s College, Lagos, where he was co-founder and first National president of the Muslim Students’ Society of Nigeria, graduating in 1956. In 1959, the Western Region Premier, Chief Obafemi Awolowo awarded him a scholarship to travel to England to study for a Law degree under a plan, drafted by Chief F.R.A. Williams. Adegbite attended the University of Southampton, graduating with a B.A. in Law in July, 1962. He then studied at the College of Law for Solicitors, Lancaster Gate, London and then at Gray’s Inn (1963– 1965). He won a Commonwealth Scholarship for postgraduate studies in England and began his career, teaching law at the University of Lagos, a position he held until he left to go into private practice in September 1976. In 1971, Adegbite was appointed Commissioner for Local Governments and Chieftaincy Matters in the old Western Region during the military administration of Brigadier Christopher Oluwole Rotimi. He was then appointed Commissioner for Justice and Attorney-General of Western State in 1973. In October 1976, he founded the legal firm of Lateef Adegbite & Co, as the Principal Partner, with main office in Lagos and a branch at Abeokuta, specialising in Commercial and Corporate Law. At the constituent assembly in 1976, Adegbite argued in favour of introducing Islamic courts of appeal in the southern states of Nigeria, saying that Muslims had the right to have their affairs judged according to Sharia law. He had said that, “Muslims have no other constitution and law apart from what Sharia had laid down and as a divine law, supersedes all other civil and moral laws”. When Ibrahim Dasuki became Sultan of Sokoto in 1988 and President-General of the Nigeria Su-

Christiana Adebola Abiodun

ate Mrs Christiana Adebola Abiodun, a former Deputy Director of Education in the Inspectorate Division at Lagos State Education District Victoria Island is dead. Late Christiana attended United Missionary College, Molete, Ibadan from 1979 to 1980. She later proceeded to the Oyo State College of Education in Ila Orangun for her Nigeria Certificate of Education, (NCE) programme which she completed in 1985. She was admitted for a Bachelor in Education (B.Ed0 degree in Guidiance and Counseling and Language Arts in 1994 at the University of Ibadan and graduated in 1998. Late Mrs. Abiodun taught in senior schools before she joined the Lagos Teaching Service Commission on interstate transfer in 1989. A devout Christian, she served in various departments in the church for many years and was ordained a deaconess at the Ajayi Dahunsi Memorial Baptist Church on June 27, 2009.

Chief Julius Ajayi

V preme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), Adegbite was appointed Secretary-General of the council. Under his leadership and Dasuki, the NSCIA, established in 1974, became much more active. In late 2002 and early 2003, Adegbite was engaged in a public dispute with Nobel Prize Laurette, Wole Soyinka, who accused Muslim leaders of inciting violence after rioting in Kaduna had led to many people being killed. The cause of the rioting was the opposition by Muslims to staging the Miss World beauty contest in Nigeria. The riots were triggered by what were taken to be blasphemous statements by a Christian newspaper reporter, who wrote that if the Prophet had attended the event, he might have picked one of the contestants as a wife. Before then, Adegbite was president of the Nigeria Olympic Committee from 1972 to 1985. He was ProChancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of the University of Maiduguri from 1984 to 1990. On March 9, 2011, President Goodluck Jonathan appointed him Chairman of a Presidential Committee on Public Awareness on Security and Civic Responsibilities.

Young Daniel Igbrude arrister Young Daniel Igbrude, a former Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, died on August 27, from a suspected cardiac arrest in Asaba, Delta State capital. Born on September 24, 1950, at Iluelogbo, now Owhelogbo, in Isoko North Local Government Area of Delta State, late YD as he was fondly called, was the fifth child of his mother and eighth son of his father. He began his academic career at the Government School Warri, where he obtained his First School Leaving Certificate in 1962. He then proceeded to Anglican Grammar School, Ubuluku in the then Benin Province in 1963, for his secondary school education. He obtained his West African School Certificate (WASCE) in 1967, and attended the University of Nigeria, Nsukka in 1972, where he bagged a Bachelor of Science degree in Political Science in 1976, and a Master of Science Degree in 1983. He also attended the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife for a law programme and bagged the LLB degree in 1991. He was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1992. Late Igbrude, began his working career as a teacher in Warri Local Education Authority in 1969 and worked till 1972, before leaving for the university. On the completion of his university education, he was employed with the Federal Ministry of Information in 1977, as an information officer. He worked at various times as Assistant Secretary, Local Government Service Commission, Ben-

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del State, Principal Clerk at Table, Bendel State House of Assembly, Benin-city, Lecturer, Department of Political Science, Faculty of Social Science, Delta State University, Abraka (1985 – 1995), Acting Dean, Lecturer and Head, Department of Private and Property Law, Faculty of Law, Delta State University (1995- 1999). Before inception of the present political dispensation, Igbrude was the state Secretary of the Defunct National Central Party of Nigeria (NCP), Delta State Chapter. In 1999, he left teaching job at the Delta State University to join the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). It was on platform of the party that he was elected as Member of the Delta State House of Assembly, to represent the Isoko North Constituency. He however spent only one month, from July 1999 to August 1999 in the Assembly, as he was later appointed, Commissioner for Information and Culture by the James Ibori administration. He was redeployed to the newly created Ministry of Lands, Surveys and Urban Development in 2001. He resigned from the state Executive Council in November 2002, to contest elections into the Delta State House of Assembly under the PDP. Late Igbrude, won the Isoko North Local Government Constituency slot and was subsequently elected Speaker of the House of Assembly on June 3, 2003. Late Barrister Igbrude is survived by wife, Princess Minnie and five children.

eteran photographer, Chief Julius Ajayi has died at the age of 88years after a brief illness. Born to the family of Pastor and Mrs. Abraham Arunmole Ajayi, the late Julius had his primary education in Kogi State and secondary education at Ibadan, Oyo State. In 1962, he proceeded to Austria to study photography at the Innsbruck College of Technology, where he graduated in the first division in 1965. In the same year, he obtained a diploma in colour photography from the School of Career, London. He held the traditional title of Agba-Akin of Erelan by the Elere of Ereland, Kwara State. He is survived by a widow and many children.

Chief Christopher Bajulaiye

he Lagos State government last month announced the death of Chief Christopher Olufunmilayo Bajulaiye who died on Monday September 10, 2012 at the age of 89 years after a brief illness. Born on November 26, 1923, Chief Bajulaiye rose to become a Permanent Secretary in Lagos State civil service. He was the pioneer head of Establishment on the creation of Lagos State and was the chairman, Local Government Service Commission in the state. Chief Bajulaiye is survived by wife, children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Friday, October 5, 2012

My best is yet to come –Emenike

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Sport

There is no doubt who can lead England; he is no other than the Chelsea captain John Terry - FORMER CHELSEA STAR, MARCEL DESSAILY

Governor’s Cup: Organisers target juniors YEMI OLUS

Super Eagles Coach, Stephen Keshi (seated) overseeing his charges in training yesterday in Abuja

AFCON 2013: Eagles test strength with Water AFOLABI GAMBARI

s the Super Eagles’ technical crew prepares the team ahead of the crucial Nations Cup qualifier with the Lone Star of Liberia in Calabar next week, the players will at the Training Pitch of the Abuja National Stadium today get their first test as they face Water Football Club, Abuja in a friendly. National Mirror learnt from Eagles spokesman, Ben Alaiya, that the crew’s decision to parade the mainly

home-based players against Water FC owed to the rising profile of the Abuja club in the National League Division One campaign. “Keshi will use the game to see those players that could be retained or dropped before the invited foreign-based players join the team on Sunday as the contingent moves to Calabar for final preparation to meet the Lone Star,” Alaiya explained. “He would like to have all the home lads available for the game in Calabar but this will be just impossible,” the spokesman added.

Taekwondo: CCSF Open commences

bout 318 athletes from national and West-African Cote d’Ivoire, Mali, tournaments. Organisers said the top Niger Republic and Nigeria begin contest today three athletes would get N150, 1st Chika Chukwumerije 000, N100, 000 and N50, 000 as Sports Foundation (CCSF) In- well as medals and certificates ternational Taekwondo Open and a photo shoot with Africa ’s first three-time Olympian, Championships in Abuja. The two-day tournament, Chika Chukwumerije. organized by the CCSF to help Nigeria and West Africa to produce Olympics champions, will hold at the Sheraton Hotel and Towers with N2.8m prize at stake for the competitors. Nigeria Police, Airforce, YEMI OLUS Immigration, Custom and Civil Defence will also jostle for igeria lost the semi fihonours in the event where nal ticket at the ongoing four Olympic weight categoFIFA U-17 Women World ries will be used as opposed Cup in Azerbaijan yesterday to the regular eight-weight after a shocking 5-3 defeat to category format used in other France via penalties after regulation time ended goalless. Defender, Sarah Nnodim’s shot went wide during the the company remained one shoot-out to give the French of the federation’s strongest team, which had dominated the partners in development. game, its semi final ticket. The NFF’s Director of Nigeria’s captain, Victoria Technical, Dr. Emmanuel IkAidelomon, was sent off in the peme, Director of Marketing, 74th minute after being booked Mr. Idris Adama, Chief Media for the second time as the FlaOfficer, Mr. Ademola Olajire, mingoes finished with one Principal Legal Officer, Barplayer down. rister Okey Obi, Senior MarKorea DPR beat Canada 2-1 keting Manager, Mr. Alizor in the other quarter final game. Chuks and Senior Sports OfGhana meets Japan today ficer, Dr. Christian Emeruwa while Brazil faces Germany in also attended the meeting. the last quarter final matches.

Guinness commits to national teams AFOLABI GAMBARI

ponsor of the Nigerian national teams, Guinness Nigeria Plc, yesterday affirmed its commitment to supporting all categories of the national teams and the overall development of the country’s football. Marketing Manager, Dr. Obinna Anyalebechi, who spoke during a meeting with

the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) in Abuja yesterday, expressed the company’s delight with the performance of the national teams. “We are committed to making matches of the Super Eagles and other national teams and we want to show greater visibility at matches involving the teams,” Anyalebechi said. NFF General Secretary, Barrister Musa Amadu, said

Flamingoes crash out

he Local Organising Committee for the Governor’s Cup Lagos Tennis Championship has revealed plans to commence hosting of the junior edition of the tournament next year. Chairman of the LOC, Pius Oluwole Akinyelore, made this known in Lagos yesterday during the unveiling of the 12th Governor’s Cup Lagos Tennis Championship Men and Women Open holding from October 13 to 27. “We are about to sign an MOU with the JC Ferrero Equelite Tennis Academy of Spain and the agreement will include the hosting of a Governor’s Cup Junior Championship and the granting of scholarships to train four junior players for four months,” Akinyelore said. The LOC boss said players from 55 countries including America, Spain, France, Russia, Cameroon, Italy, Ghana, India, Tunisia, Pakistan, Botswana, Dominican Republic and Bulgaria are expected to participate in the impending Governor’s Cup, an improvement from last year when players from 35 countries took part in the biggest International Tennis Federation event in West Africa sponsored by Etisalat and First City Monument Bank since 2009. Australia Open 2012 second round player, Nina Bratchikova, who is a past winner of the women’s singles of the Governor’s Cup, Kristina Kucova of Slovakia and Germany’s Anne Schaefer are among players expected for the twoweek event while France’s Laurent Rochette and South Africa’s Ruan Roelofse will lead the men’s onslaught.

Lagos State Governor, Fashola

Sport

Friday, October 5, 2012

Hodgson regrets Ferdinand comment

National Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

LASU set for Unity Games MOJEED ALABI

he Lagos State University (LASU) has concluded arrangement to host the maiden LASU Staff Unity Games scheduled for October 10. According to the institution’s Director of Sports, Dr. Ademola Adiatu, the games was aimed at curbing various health diseases, improve physical fitness and encourage unity among members of the university staff. “It is also a way to curb cardiovascular diseases, hyperkinetic diseases and other related diseases,” Adiatu said yesterday, adding that staff would compete in badminton, football, athletics, table tennis and relay race.

ngland Manager, Roy Hodgson, has issued an apology to Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand over the way he dealt his omission from his latest squad. Ferdinand learned he was not going to be selected after Hodgson made some rather loose comments to a fellow passenger on the Tube heading to Arsenal’s UEFA Champions League encounter with Olympiakos at the Emirates Stadium on Wednesday. In addition to confirming the 33-year-old was not going to be selected for the World Cup qualifiers against San Marino and Poland, Hodgson also indicated Ferdinand’s international career was over despite John Terry’s retirement from England duty. The words underlined Hodgson’s squad announcement on Thursday morning, in which there was no place for Ferdinand but a spot for Stoke’s Ryan Shawcross, whose only previous call-up came under Fabio Capello in 2010. Hodgson acknowledged he had made a mistake imparting such information to a random member of the public. “I have tried to get in touch with Rio today (yesterday) and I am disappointed that a stray conversation has been reported in that way,” Hodgson said, stressing, “I am disappointed this could be seen as a lack of respect to Rio whom I have utmost respect for.”

Highlights of the games sponsored by Zenith Sports, Enamelware Company, De Rose, and Crown tissue include presentation of lectures entitled: “The place/role of physical fitness in enhancing productivity in Nigerian Universities” to be delivered by Dr. Randle Odunbaku and “Cooperate physical fitness activities as a viable vehicle towards improve staff unity” by Professor Clement Fasan. Guests expected at the occasion include Special Adviser on Education to the Lagos State Governor, Otunba Fatai Olukoga, Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Mr. Enitan Oshodi and Chairman, Amuwo Odofin Local Government, Comrade Ayodele Adewale, among others.

CCL: Sunshine warns of Ahly antics AFOLABI GAMBARI

he management of Sunshine Stars has described the report that Al Ahly’s squad is bereft of star players over injury as false alarm, saying the club’s opponent in the CAF Champions League semi final clash billed for Ijebu Ode tomorrow has deployed the report to unsettle the host. Al Ahly had posted on its website on Wednesday that five of its key players would miss the impending game due to injury. But a statement by the Executive Director, Ondo State Football Agency (OSFA), Mike Idoko, warned Nigerians not to celebrate the purported report. “We are not new to the an-

tics of the Egyptians as we know they merely sold a dummy which we have refused to buy,” Idoko said yesterday. “We have our agents monitoring them and from what they are feeding us, these players are training with them and are part of the team coming to Ijebu Ode,” the OSFA boss added. Meanwhile, latest reports indicate that the Ondo State Governor, Olusegun Mimiko, would rest his re-election campaign to attend the first leg semi final clash in Ijebu Ode to support the state-owned club to victory. “The governor is committed to Sunshine’s success in this Champions League campaign and will not spare any effort at actualizing the success,” Idoko further said.

Rio Ferdinand

PPepsi Academy displays talent AFOLABI GAMBARI

PFA boss, Laloko

iberty Stadium, Ibadan will host the Pepsi Football Academy U-15 National Tournament today in its pursuit of scouting U-17 players for the nation. Students from 14 training centres of the academy from across Nigeria will converge for the two-day competition as part of the activities marking the 20th anniversary of the academy reputed as the oldest and biggest football academy in sub- Sahara Africa. Director of the Academy, Dr. Kasimawo Laloko, said the event was restricted to only the youngsters with a view to enabling the coach-

es test the level of their skills development. “You cannot continue to train these young boys all year round without providing the opportunity for them to play in a competition else there will be no motivation for them to train and work hard,” Laloko said. Consultant to the Pepsi Football Academy, Mr. Iain Nelson, said the tournament would highlight the abundant talents that the academy had produced for Nigeria since the academy was established in 1992. The products include Chelsea midfielder John Obi Mikel, West Brom striker Peter Odemwingie and Sporting Braga’s Elderson Echiejile, among others.

Sunshine striker Ajani Ibrahim (facing camera) and a mate celebrating a goal in a recent match

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Sport

Friday, October 5, 2012

Wi Window on Nigerian players abroad

with IKENWA NNABUOGOR ikenwa.nnabuogor@gmail.com

Nworuh banks on goals to lift Horsens

C Horsens of Denmark new signing Jude Nworuh has declared his goals will lift his new team to greater heights this season. The former Ebiede star netted his second goal for his new team as they beat lower division side Otterup 3-1 to advance to the final stages of the Danish Pokal Cup (FA Cup). Nworuh opened scoring for his team before his team mates scored twice to make the opponents’ two goals count for nothing. Nworuh’s goal came four days after he salvaged a point in their famous 1-1 draw against league champions FC Copenhagen last weekend. The equalizer before their home fans attracted huge applause from his mates and fans who believed their goal getter had finally arrived. Nworuh endured a frustrating start in the league at Midtylland where he was coming off the bench and failed to score in six games before his summer move to Horsens. “I’m here to prove that I have got a lot of goals in my boots and I’m happy I’m beginning to show what I can do,” Nworuh told National Mirror. “The last days at Midtylland were not good as I was always playing from the bench but things have all changed now at Horsens. “I can tell that I’m beginning to enjoy my game again as I start games now. I have also settled well here and the atmosphere is fantastic.

chalke 04 of Germany striker Chinedu Obasi says he expects to have a great season after recovering from a long injury spell that kept out of their pre-season friendlies and a number of games in the Bundesliga and Champions League. The former Lyn Oslo star who underwent a surgery some months ago, returned to action last weekend, playing in the last 10 minutes in their 2-2 away draw at Fortuna Dusseldorf. Obasi had told National Mirror two weeks ago he was needed two weeks to get back to action but surprisingly played in the game at Dusseldorf. However, he was not dressed in their Wednesday’s group game against Montpellier.

The former youth international, who has battled injury worries, reckons he will be on top of his game this season. “I’m happy I’m back from injury and I’m playing again which I think it’s the most important thing,” Obasi said. “It was tough for me battling to regain fitness while the injury lasted. The rehabilitation was great too and I’m back on my feet. “I played in the last 10 minutes at Dusseldorf and I can say it was a good game for me. That was just the beginning and I will improve with every game. “I have no doubt the season will be good for me and I’d love to take the game one after the other. The management, my mates and the fans have been great and I’m grateful.

Uche delighted with Villareal form

N Jude Nworuh

“The setting is also good for me to settle down to do my acts well and with the support im getting from my mates and management; I will surely be on top of my game. “I was bought to score goals and I’m confident I will deliver. I will always remember my days at

FC Fredericia last two seasons, where I spent a season-long loan and I scored 14 goals and emerged the second top scorer. “I can repeat such feat here and I’m confident I will get all the support I need to deliver. I’m happy to be here.”

My best is yet to come –Emenike

Obasi promises good season

partak Moscow power striker Emmanuel Emenike has declared in clear terms that his Eagles best are yet to come and promised to hit Liberia with his goals next weekend as Eagles engage the Lone Star in the second leg of the final leg of the Nations Cup qualifier. Emenike told National Mirror yesterday that his two goals against Celtic Glasgow in the Champions League group game were parting gifts for the crucial game against Liberia. Emenike, who harassed mighty Barcelona in their group’s first game at Nou Camp a fortnight ago, hit two goals in 49 minutes but his team failed to consolidate the lead and allowed the Scottish team to run away 3-2 winners. The former Karabukspor of Turkey hit man says that the Liberia game is uppermost in his mind and will not stop at nothing to ensure a resounding victory

next weekend. “I will only transform my superb scoring form to the Liberia game and I can assure you that the Liberians will not escape,” he declared. “We will put smiles on the faces of our fans come next weekend and with the South Africa 2013 Nations Cup ticket in the bag, the fans will be happier for it. “I’m really looking forward to the game because of the crucial nature of the game and we cannot afford to toy with it. “Personally, it’s a huge game for me and I want to give it my all. They escaped with a 2-2 draw in Monrovia three weeks ago and I can’t assure you that they won’t escape in Calabar.” Emenike continued from where he left off last season in the Russian Premier League, netting four goals in the current season to be among the top scorers. He netted 12 goals last season.

Emmanuel Emenike

igeria striker Ikechukwu Uche, who scored his first league goal of the campaign last weekend, is delighted with the form of the Yellow Submarine in Spain’s second - tier. Villarreal are second on the log after seven matches played in the Segunda division. ‘’I’m happy things are going well for me and the team. We’re up and we’re happy about it. Now is important to be up and go picking up the pace. ‘’It is too early now to say how things will end up. We

have to think game by game and not go further. We have good players and we can make things right, but without haste,’’ he was quoted as saying by marca.com. Sporting Gijon, who also lost their top flight status at the end of the 2011 - 2012 campaign, welcome Uche and his colleagues to the Estadio Municipal El Molinón (Gijón) on Sunday. Uche, who netted his first goal for his team last weekend, hopes to continue his scoring ways in the tie as they fight to return to La Liga next season.

WORLD RECORD

Largest military division of marine mammals Vol. 02 No. 464

The world’s largest military division made up of sea mammals, is the US Navy’s Marine Mammal Program, of San Diego, California, USA, established in 1960.

Friday, October 5, 2012

NAPEP or rats keeping custody of precious fish? T he National Agency for Poverty Eradication Programme (NAPEP) was again in the news last week with claims that a Level Four female officer in the agency was showered with N1.3 million estacode purportedly for training in Dubai and China under curious circumstances. The said amount of estacode was said to be reserved for Level 15 officers (directors). NAPEP’s Head of Publicity, Danladi Hassan Kobi, who reacted to the report, was quoted as saying that it was not possible for a Level Four officer to benefit the same value of estacode as a director for foreign training. Some senior officers of NAPEP who were in Dubai and China recently for the training were said to have been thoroughly embarrassed by the development, but could not speak up for the fear of possible victimization, following the

FRIDAYS WITH Dozie Okebalama

dozieokeama@yahoo.co.uk 08164966858 (SMS only) suspicion that the lady earned her ‘pay’ through a randy top official who wanted her to make the trip. Nothing, absolutely, may be wrong with NAPEP embarking on the capacity building of its staff abroad. On the contrary, the alleged reckless waste of public funds on one’s mistress, passed off as official expenditure, is unacceptable. It is a reminder of the claim that a female National Youth Corps member earned N1 million instead of N11,000 under former Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nasir El-Rufai, a man very critical of bad leadership today as always. A more recent version of it is the Oyo lawmakers’ wives’ recent jamboree in London for socalled husband support training; where in roughly eight days, about 32 of them squandered N50 million on what critics called a shopping spree. Sadly, it is unlikely that many public officers would easily splash as much as the amount in question on their mistresses from their legitimate earnings. NAPEP is the Federal Government outfit charged with the reduction of the pangs of poverty, hardship and misery in the land. If corruption has festered in the agency to the extent that one of its top officials boldly ‘eradicated’ the poverty of his in-house mistress with as much as N1.3 million, it follows that NAPEP has turned a notorious rat-infested tunnel plugged with precious bagfuls of fish.

MANY PUBLIC OFFICERS WOULD EASILY SPLASH AS MUCH AS THE AMOUNT IN QUESTION ON THEIR MISTRESSES FROM THEIR LEGITIMATE EARNINGS The full stories of the culprit are untold as yet. Even if NAPEP is selling each of its ‘keke’ tricycles for N330,000 as alleged by critics, instead of the FG’s subsidized rate of N295,804, the N1.3 million allegedly used by the yet unknown NAPEP official to pacify his colleague and mistress would be enough to purchase three tricycles, with N310,000 remaining. In today’s Nigeria, many unemployed and distressed graduates would jump at just one tricycle to make ends meet. That a NAPEP boss could dip his hands into public funds and literally use such an amount to thank his mistress for her services is, indeed, an exceptional test case for any serious attempt to sanitize the nation’s congenitally corrupt public service if found to be true. The officer

Sport Extra

w uropean Football Association, UEFA, has instructed top club bosses to lift the Europa League in a bid to boost the prestige of the ailing competition. A memo from the football’s governing body has

IT IS UNLIKELY THAT

should be quickly identified, prosecuted and punished. He also deserves the boot from his high office in NAPEP after all said and done. Still fresh in the memory is the Keke NAPEP scam involving millions of naira. Former president of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Olisa Agbakoba, had in April last year, petitioned the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Mohammed Adoke, among others, and called for the prosecution of NAPEP officials and leaders of the Keke NAPEP Owners and Riders Association of Nigeria (KORAN) for allegedly conniving to steal the sum of N417 million from Keke NAPEP proceeds. The petition, which Agbakoba wrote on behalf of his client, Autobahn Techniques Limited, alleged that the Keke NAPEP project, which recorded huge success in 2002 and 2003, ran into hitches subsequently because of KORAN’s internal strife which was exploited by one of its factional leaders and some NAPEP officials to perpetrate the fraud. The Senate Committee on National Planning, Economic Affairs and Poverty Alleviation which investigated NAPEP’s activities in 2009 also came out with a report not too different from the content of Agbakoba’s petition. The committee report, for instance, alleged that “the collection and distribution of the assembled tricycles were surrounded by lots of shoddy manipulations between NAPEP, the Initiative for Peace, Empowerment and Tolerance International (IPET) and KORAN”; as well as diversion of funds, among others against NAPEP. Senior Special Assistant to the President and National Coordinator of NAPEP, Dr. Magnus L. Kpakol, had since denied involvement in any misdeed. It would seem, however, that the current allegation of N1.3 million undeserved ‘gift’ to a Level Four female officer by whoever has presented yet another fresh opportunity for the relevant authorities to take a more penetrating look at the goings on in NAPEP.

UEFA plans to lift Europa League gone to all managers to prevent it from being seen as poor in relation to the Champions League. Bosses have been instructed to use key phrases which are supposed to

highlight the importance of participating. Several English clubs have chosen to field shadow squads with domestic football taking precedence.

Liverpool and Newcastle have gone down that route and the failure of those clubs to name their first-choice sides has led to the perceived notion that Europa League is be-

ing devalued. Under the heading: ‘Discover the drama,’ managers were told the following: ‘At the start of press conferences, the messages below should be used by press officers and to brief coaches and players.

Brendan Rodgers

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