Wednesday November 7, 2018 Edition

On the army rampage in Ebonyi State

R

ecently, soldiers, obviously angered at the apparent kidnap and possible murder of one of their colleagues by villagers in Igbeagu community in Izzi Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, reportedly went on a rampage, destroying things in the process.

Thankfully, no lives were reported-

The Oracle Today Comment

ly lost.

The soldiers were deployed to the community on a peacekeeping operation following the incessant boundary clashes between

The

VOX POPULI SACRUM

Igbeagu and Ukelle community in the Yala Local Government Area of Bayelsa State. These clashes have cost so much in lives and property in both communities over time.

Villagers who spoke about their experiences in the hands of the soldiers described how the soldiers ransacked IDP camps, destroyed shops, set fire to a number of mo-

torcycles, arrested and tortured, among others, villagers all in an attempt to fish out the kidnappers of the missing soldier and, through them, get the soldier out, dead or alive.

However, reacting to the actions of his troops in the said commu-

racle

Cont’d on page 24

Today

www.oraclenews.ng

Why Ekweremadu aborted APC move WEDNESDAY November 7, 2018

ISSN: 2545-5869 VOL.3 No.44 N200

•Loathe to be linked with ‘Akpabio syndrome’ •Courts Wike’s displeasure over Tambuwal •Integrity of PDP on his mind •Unhappy over loss to Obi, political competitor in S/East Page 2

Cleric calls for ‘unified’ New Yam Festival

By IZUNNA EZENWA

D

irector, Directorate of Igbo Village and Centre for African civilization (IVACAC), Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka, Very Rev Fr. Prof. Bonachristus Ucehnna Umeogu has called for a ‘unified’ New Yam (Iwa Ji) Festival in Igbo-Land, saying this would internationalize the celebration thereby making it an event for cultural exchange between Ndigbo and the rest of the world.

To this effect, Rev Fr. Umeogu enjoined South East governors to collaborate with the Ohanaeze Ndigbo and other Igbo renaissance groups to decide on a day for that celebration and institute events or competitions around the Iwa Ji festival for the five SouthEast States.

Prof. Umeogu spoke at a two-day New Yam Festival christened Iri Ji UNIZIK and Ezi-na-Ifite Igbo Heritage Conference, 2018, organised by Nnamdi Azikiwe University, (UNIZIK) Awka, Anambra State, and held at

Cont’d on page 2

Page 45

•Urges Ndigbo to internationalise event

Gas: Investors demand market liberalisation

By SOPURUCHI ONWUKA

I

•Roast yam, will eat: Vice Chancellor Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Awka, Prof Joseph Ahaneku with the Director, Directorate of Igbo Village and Centre for African Civilization (IVACAC), Very Rev Fr Prof. Bonachristus Ucehnna Umeogu about to cut the New Yam during a two-day conference on the New Yam Festival organised by the Directorate of Igbo Village and Centre for African Civilization (IVACAC), Awka, recently...

NDIGENOUS and multinational oil and gas investors in Nigeria have called on government to address all fiscal and regulatory concerns in the local operating environment to attract the right set of investible funds for domestic gas development.

The calls follow government’s mandate on the industry to position the petroleum industry rapidly changing energy demand from petroleum liquids to cleaner, cheaper and more sustainable gas resources.

According to the Nigerian Gas Association, the industry requires over $51 billion investments to address upstream field development and production operations, development of new infrastructure and facilities to fill acute deficits in the domestic gas markets and growth in liquefaction and shipping for exports.

To stake investors’ funds

Cont’d on page 17

AITEO Cup: We lived up to our motto – Chukwu

2

The Oracle Today Wednesday November 7, 2018

NEWS

Why Ekweremadu aborted APC move

By NATH OMAME Jr.

F

acts have emerged as to why the rumoured decamping of the Deputy Senate President to the ruling (at the centre) All Progressives congress (APC) did not materialize after all.

Authoritative sources told The Oracle Today that the need to preserve the integrity of the PDP, which, along with others, he worked so hard to reposition; fear of the perception of his move as dictated by the ‘Akpabio syndrome’ (defection to avoid EFCC troubles) and the need to avoid being seen as an ‘over’ ambitious politician who cares little about anything else, made Dr. Ekweremadu decide not to go further with his speculated plans to defect from the PDP to the APC. EKweremadu is reportedly hurt over his failure to secure the position of running mate to Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, the PDP Presidential candidate in next year’s general election.

It was gathered that because of the Deputy Senate President’s role in the effort that culminated in the rebirth of PDP, there was some understanding in the party that he would be nominated the running mate to whomever emerged as the presidential flag-bearer.

However, The Oracle Today gathered, the permutation was hinged on the expected ‘good’ showing in the presidential primary of Sokoto State Governor, Aminu Tambuwal, who was backed by PDP strongman and Rivers State governor, Nyesom Wike, and most of the governors.

As it turned out, Tambuwal was defeated.

But earlier before then, Ekweremadu was said to have got the hints of what would happen and tried to align with the winning team.

Authoritative sources who spoke to The Oracle Today in Port Harcourt hinted that at the Adokie Amasiamka Stadium, Port Harcourt, venue of the PDP presidential parimary on Saturday, October 6, 2018, Ekweremadu worked hard to sway things Atiku’s way, using his enormous influence in the party to “to do things that practically stanched Tambuwal’s ambition,” as one insider put it.

In fact, no thanks to Ekweremadu, it was further gathered, Tambuwal’s team couldn’t do much of the public relations his camp planned to do and which could have made all the difference for the Sokoto State governor’s presidential ambition.

But, Ekweremadu’s intervention would appear to have come a little too late, as the Deputy Senate President’s political competitor in the South East and former governor of Anambra State, Mr. Peter Obi had reportedly gone much further than Ekweremadu and earlier.

Obi reportedly started discussing with Atiku as early as January this year, assuring him of support.

In fact, sources who spoke to The Oracle Today earlier on the matter, noted that of all the delegates from the South East, only Anambra delegates led by Obi came originally to vote for Atiku.

Obi also mobilised resources for the former Vice President.

Sources close to the Atiku campaign contended that apart from Anambra, the rest of the South East was divided between Tambuwal and Saraki.

Ekweremadu was actually under consideration for nomination

as running mate but he was supporting Saraki.

It was gathered that the deputy senate President’s volte-face may have strained his relationship with Saraki and Wike both of who may have worked against his nomination as running mate.

Ekweremadu’s open expression of anger at the choice of Obi betrayed his frustration at not being chosen by Atiku especially after the effort he made at the primary election ground to practically frustrate other candidates in favour of Atiku.

Ekweremadu may have also have been incensed at having been upstaged by Obi, his rival for the

VP slot from the very beginning.

All through the electioneering for last November’s governorship election in Anambra, it was only delegations from Enugu, apparently loathe to give Obi any latitude of influence in the party over Ekweremadu, that never went to Anambra to support the PDP candidate, Mr. Oseloka Obaze.

Ebonyi, Abia, Rivers, Ekiti and other State delegations were there in full force but not a single one from Enugu.

It must have felt bad for the Deputy Senate President that despite what many had thought was Obi’s downfall following Obaze’s defeat and, by extension, the tendency

represented by Obi, the former Anambra governor still managed to beat Ekweremadu in the race for the PDP VP nominee.

“The man worked hard for Atiku’s emergence, no doubt about it,” one delegate told The Oracle Today. “He practically stopped other candidates in their tracks.

Wike was livid about it and I am sure that’s why the Rivers governor is believed to have worked against his (Ekweremadu) emerging the VP nominee. Everyone knows Wike wanted Tambuwal by all means.”

But, the delegate, while stating that the deputy Senate President deserved a “more honourable

treatment” said, however, that the choice of Obi by Atiku “is a very good one, indeed.”

There were insinuations that EFCC’s harassment of Ekweremadu, apart form the hurt of being sidelined over the VP choice may also have acted as the spur Ekweremadu needed to make his alleged move for APC. The EFCC is asking Ekweremadu to explain how he acquired all the property in Nigeria and overseas allegedly registered in his name.

However, the anti-graft agency has not made any appreciable progress with its investigation because the onus is still on the commission to prove that the said sets of property were acquired fraudulently.

However, despite all the speculations, including that he has parted ways with his political buddy, Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State, Ekweremadu returned to the country, expressing support for his State governor and re-pledging loyalty to the PDP. “It was a non-event after all,” one of the South East delegates told The Oracle Today. “Ekweremadu couldn’t have left the PDP for APC. As hurting as the loss of the running mate position may be to him, he could never have jumped ship on the basis of that.”

Cleric calls for ‘unified’ New Yam Festival Continued from Pg 1 •Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State receives PDP Vice-Presiential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi at the government Enugu

Prophet Ayodele bares his mind on 2019 election

F

ounder of INRI Evangelical Spritual Church, Lagos, Primate Elijah Ayodele says he will reveal God’s verdict on the 2019 general election “soon”.

Ayodele, who recently declared that Senate President Olusola Saraki was the anointed person who could defeat President Muhammadu Buhari in next year’s presidential election, said

he would reveal God verdict’s on the next President of Nigeria in the light of Alhaji Atiku Abubakar’s emergence as the presidential candidate of the PDP. Ayodele, who correctly predicted that Femi Akeredolu would win the Ondo State governorship election, that Kayode Fayemi would reclaim Ekiti election and Godwin Obaseki would

win in Edo State contended that former President Good luck Jonathan may well be the last PDP President to rule Nigeria.

However, now that Atiku has won the PDP ticket, he has declared that he would seek the face of God for a final verdict on the 2019 presidential election in Nigeria.

Enugu workers grumble over unpaid salaries, allowances

W

orkers in government parastatals and agencies in Enugu State have asked governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi to approve the payment of their outstanding salaries and allowances amounting to about N2 billion.

The parastatals and agencies include the Enugu State Transport Company, ENTRACO, the state Water Corporation, the Rural Water and Sanitation Agency, ENRUWASA, the state Rural Electrication Board and the Tourism Board.

This is even as retired primary school teachers are yet to either get their gratuities and pensions in the last four years in the state.

The workers made this known during a solidarity visit to Governor Ugwuanyi at Government House, Enugu yesterday.

Spokesman of the workers, Comrade Timothy Ojielo who made this known in a statement made available to newsmen

said,”Enugu workers urge you sir, to see us as indigenous partners with your administration’s poise to building a common fabric for a greater Enugu State and mustn’t fail to glamourise this occasion by congratulating you on your victory in the just concluded PDP primaries in the state.”

Ojielo had earlier said, “We feel dejected in all ramifications by the government of Enugu State...

Workers in the parastatals are not sure of their next meal due to inconsistencies in salary payments.

“The circular categorically, directing authorities concerned, stated that salaries of Enugu state workers be paid on the 23rd of every month.Since then, our sisters in ministries have been enjoying this, but we in parastatals are lost in this arrangement, irrespective of the bio-data capturing exercise.”

Giving a breakdown of the salary arreas, Ojiego said that ENTRACO

was bring owed N164,356,811.85 in salaries and allowances, while the Enugu- Water Corporation was owed N1,628,965,690.68 just as ENRUWASA, the rural electrificatoon agency and the Tourism Board were being owed N15,341,345; N68,417,425.27 and N58,319,908.23 respectivrly, bringing the grand total to N1,935,401,180.

They further said that parastayal eorkers had been benefitying from the13th month bonus which Governor Ugwuanyi had been paying to other workers in the state, asking, “what have we done, to deserve such ill-treatment?”

According to him, “We are without mincing words saddened as our counterparts in your service are being treated with both caution and attentiveness, but we are being treated with ignominy and rejection, even though we render continuous and useful services to the state...”

the Faculty Of Arts of the University.

Very Rev. Fr. Umeogu noted that if governments of the South Eastern States and the Igbo intelligentsia were to take up the challenge, the New Yam Festival would be taken to greater heights and measure up to similar cultural festivals in other parts of the world in terms of quality and popularity.

The Director, Igbo Village and Centre for African Civilisation, UNIZIK, who took the audience to through the etymology of yam and its families of dioscorea, described New Yam Festival as a very important festival in Igbo land.

Said he: “New Yam Festival is the king of all festivals and includes a lot of Igbo cultural things like thanksgiving, kolanut breaking, masquerades performance, theatrical and dance exhibitions, among others.

The fiery preacher and internally acclaimed philosopher, who is also the Spiritual Director, Communio Sanctorum Ministries Awka, however, debunked insinuations in some quarters that New Yam Festival is a pagan activity, arguing that people are no longer bound to give their thanksgiving to ‘ani or ‘Ifejioku’ but to the God of their religion.

He pointed out that yam in Igbo land is not only used for food, sacrifice and commerce but also to solve the health needs of mankind, such as blood pressure, regulation of blood sugar level, digestive system and flourish of certain vitamins in the body.

•See full story on pages 12 and 13

3

The Oracle Today Wednesday November 7, 2018

NEWS ACROSS THE NATION

Minimum wage: Kwara workers insist on N30,000 •Yobe mobilizes for indefinite strike •I’m ready to pay any amount – Ortom

T

HE Joint Kwara Labour Congress, on Tuesday in Ilorin, staged a peaceful protest on the delay by the Federal Government to implement the N30,000 minimum wage demanded by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC).

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that workers in their hundreds joined the protest and marched through major streets in the metropolis, thereby causing a gridlock on major highways.

The workers at the Kwara Government House, carried different placards including ”Day of National Mourning; On N30, 000 minimum wage we stand; Let’s all demand for a living wage; Minimum wage, solution to corruption.

The NLC chairman, Kwara chapter, Mr Yekini Agunbiade in his address to workers and government representatives, said it was evil to work more and earn less, adding that Nigeria workers deserve better treatment.

“N30,000 minimum wage is not even enough to cater for the family, we only want to manage it. They have to stop maltreating us.

“We say No to amputated minimum wage, N30,000 is our right.

Stop denying us our right and pay us what we deserve,” he said.

The Kwara Head of Service (HOS), Mrs Modupe Oluwole, assured the protesters of better service condition for civil servants in the state.

She said Gov. Abdulfatah Ahmed of the state would fight for the workers and speak in support of minimum wage.

Meanwhile, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Yobe council, has directed all workers in the state to prepare for an indefinite strike slated to commence from Nov.6 to push for a new minimum wage.

Yobe NLC Chairman, Mr Ibrahim Lawan, who spoke on Tuesday in Damataru, urged the workers to disregard government’s directives of no work no pay.

“We are calling on our members to start preparing for the indefinite strike which begins from Nov. 6, 2018.

“As directed by the National Headquarters of NLC, we will continue to mobilise members to shut down the country if government fails to approve N30,000 as national minimum wage,” he said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that labour unions had threatened to commence a nationwide indefinite strike from Nov. 6, if the government does not meet its demands on minimum wage for Nigerian workers.

Organised labour on Sept. 26 embarked on a nationwide strike to compel government and the tripartite committee to complete its assignment on the new minimum wage.

The strike was subsequently suspended for the committee to reconvene, but its deliberations still remain inconclusive.

In a related development, Benue governor Samuel Ortom has promised to pay any amount agreed upon by the negotiating committee on minimum wage.

Ortom stated this on Tuesday in Makurdi, when members of Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Trade Union Congress (TUC), and other sister unions visited him to register their support for the upward review of wages.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), reports that the Organised Labour has proposed a minimum wage of N30,000, vowing to shut down the country if the demand was not met.

Ortom, who was represented by his Chief of Staff, Mr Terwase Orbunde, said that he was not against the upward review of workers’ minimum wages “in spite of the current economic challenges bedeviling the country”.

“I will work in line with the outcome of the new minimum wage committee. I am known for championing improved welfare for workers. I did

Canadian Governor-General inaugurates Lagos Biobank

G

OVERNOR-GENERAL of Canada, Julie Payette, on Tuesday inaugurated a 4.5 million dollars Lagos Biobank for effective management of outbreak of diseases, research and development of vaccines at the Mainland Hospital in Yaba, Lagos.

Payette said that the West Africa Ebola outbreak underscored the need for countries to intensify cooperation and coordination to prevent the spread of diseases and to effectively counter epidemics.

“In this context, the governments of Lagos State and Canada joined together to design and build a new biological containment laboratory and secure storage facility,’’ she said.

Payette commended the Lagos State Government for containing the 2014 Ebola outbreak, saying the facility would better equip the state to mitigate post-Ebola threats.

She said the facility would also assist to strengthen capacity to prevent, detect and respond to all manner of future disease threats naturally occurring or deliberately caused.

Payette said: “I must say I had a thought knowing that we were coming here to open such an important facility.

“A facility to prevent, detect and respond to about the worst calamities possible outcomes that could happen.

“The incidence of infectious disease if not contained could do so much damage and could ravage so many lives. It is absolutely essential to have a facility like this to make sure that it never happens.

“As serious as the outbreak was here in Nigeria and elsewhere in West Africa, it could not have been much more and worse.”

According to her, Canada is very glad to have filled that gap with you with this laboratory and Biobank.

“We will continue to collaborate with you in this important effort.

We also work in Canada in our microbiology laboratories to contain other infectious disease and still working on Ebola and other treatments.

“The disease is very deadly. We have experimental treatments that are now coming up so that the possibility that we can cure or treat diseases better is in front of us.

“And we have to continue toward that goal so that diseases like Ebola do not anymore mean a death sentence,’’ she said.

it when I was the Chairman of Guma Local Government Area.

“When I came on board as governor, primary school teachers were not receiving the N18,000.00 minimum wage. I stepped up their salaries without waiting for them to mount pressure on me to do so.

“I wanted them to be at par with other civil servants in the State. They did not march in procession before

I increased their salaries. I am not against a better life for workers,” he said.

NLC president Ayuba Wabba, who was represented on the visit by the National Auditor, Simon Anchaver, had earlier urged state and federal governments to accept the N30,000 new minimum wage to avert a total shut down of the country on Nov.6.

The State Chairman, TUC, Mr Or-

due Tartenger, in his remarks, said that workers should not be forced to protest before they could get basic demands.

Tartenger argued that the minimum wage had to be reviewed upwards because the prices of goods, including fuel, had gone up.

“Money has lost its value; prices of all items have gone up and workers cannot afford basic needs of their families,” he fumed.

•(Second left): Dr. (Mrs) Bisi Fayemi, an author, women’s right advocate and wife of the Ekiti State Governor, Dr Kayode Fayemi, flagging off the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA)’s Book-A-Child project as (from left) president of ANA, Mallam Denja Abdullahi; former president, Prof Femi Osofisan; Prof Karen King-Aribisala of the University of Lagos; and Prof Akachi Ezeigbo of the Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ikwo, Ebonyi State watch during the opening ceremony of the just-concluded ANA international convention at the Lagos Airport Hotel, Ikeja, Friday.

Winners emerge as Nigerian authors end int’l convention in Lagos

By VICTOR NZE

S

ASI Miet Jajja’s book titled; Justice Club, has claimed the grand prize of N200, 000 as the work edged others including ‘Things That Start Small But Sweet’ by Bibi Ukonu and Emmanuel Asika’s ‘Vacancy for the Post of a Bride,’ to win in the ANA/ Abubakar Gimba Prize for Short Stories.

Other winners also emerged as the four-day 37th International Convention of the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA), came to a close in Ikeja, Lagos, last Sunday.

While, ‘The Longest Trial’ by Uchenna Eze won the N100, 000 ANA Prose Fiction Prize, ‘Guerilla Post ‘ written by Obari Gomba won the ANA Drama Prize which carries a N100, 000 reward.

Also ‘Bombblast or Breakfast ‘ by J. O. J. Nwachukwu-Agbada claimed the N100, 000 ANA Poetry Prize, just as ‘Primrose and the Kidnappers’ by Jide Ogunlana and ‘Tomorrow Brings Beautiful Things’ by Ernest Ogunyemi all got N100, 000 each for winning in the ANA Prize for Children’s Literature and ANA/NECO Teen Author Prose Prize, respectively.

Similarly, the work ‘Nativisation as Style and Identity Marker in Barclays Ayakoroma’s Dance on His Grave’, written by Ebi Yeibo bagged the N100, 000 ANA/Maria Ajima Prize for Literary Criticism.

This year’s convention held under the theme: Literature, Megacities and Mega-narratives, with its keynote delivered by Prof Karen KingAribisala of the University of Lagos.

Earlier, in his welcome address at

the Opening ceremony, at the Lagos Airport Hotel, Friday, President of the association, Mallam Denja Abdullahi, noted that although the group remains non-partisan and non-political in social commentaries, ‘we all have a stake in going beyond the texts to help shape this country into the path of rectitude and real progress.’

Continuing, Abdulahi said: “At this point it will be apt for us to add our voices to commentaries on the state of the nation and the political conundrum we presently find ourselves in in the country.

The Association has had cause to release a statement at the height of the defection saga in the political space and the siege drama at the National Assembly asking; ‘Where Does All These Leave the People?’

“We asked this question because we have seen it repeatedly exhibited in this country since independence that the real interests of the people hardly matter to those playing politics or who find themselves in governance via the ballots or the bullets. “Democracy to us has degenerated to simply a scheme of periodic elections preceded with all sorts of frenzy ushering in governments that lead neither the country nor its people to a remarkable place. It is like after every election, we go into a collective limbo to pick up the frenzy again when the next election approaches with new insidiousness.

“ANA as a body will take active interest in the forthcoming general

elections among the league of the civil societies monitoring the process and if INEC looks our way, as collation, returning and electoral officers. We call on our members armed with their PVC to go out to cast their votes for candidates of their choice during the coming elections.”

Recalling how far the association has come in its struggle to promote literacy and a strong reading culture in the country, Abdullahi said this has informed the need for the group to re-strategize its models and models, as well as focus. “ANA has toiled all these years in numerous projects and programmes to protect the interests of Nigerian writers, nurture the innate creative potentials of Nigerian children and youths, preserve the cultural heritage of this country, serve as its truly patriotic ambassador-at-large, promote the reading culture and a knowledgebased society.

“In this struggle and toil, our members have made huge sacrifices, occasionally assisted by benign state apparatuses and literary inclined individuals. We have realized that if our voice is to become stronger as an Association there is need for us to toe the path of self-sufficiency and the re-modeling of our working capacity.

“That is why our administration of this very important craft union has largely focused in the last few years on re-structuring our operational procedure by opening up to greater strategic partnerships and building a writers’ village in Abuja we could call our own.

4

The Oracle Today Wednesday November 7, 2018

NEWS ACROSS THE NATION

Africa Index: Nigeria ranks 4th in workplace gender equality

N

IGERIA ranked 4th out of 54 African countries in workplace gender equality scoring 50, with a growth rate of 25 per cent between 2008 and 2017, Mo Ibrahim Foundation says.

News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the 2018 Ibrahim Index of African Governance (IIAG) was launched by the foundation during a live event on Monday.

The 2018 Ibrahim Index of African Governance (IIAG) covers ten years’ worth of data from 2008-2017 inclusive for 54 African countries.

Speaking on the role of women in African economies, Mo Ibrahim, Foundation chair and Yvonne Mensah, Head of Africa, Governance at Commonwealth analysed the 2018 report.

Ibrahim noted that women are a key part of African development and therefore, deserve more inclusion for the economic growth.

He said, “If you look at African women, they are the backbone of the economy. They do most of the agriculture, they help the kids, schools, housekeeping.

“You begin to wonder what the men are doing in Africa,” Ibrahim said.

Meanwhile Mensah stated that while there is improvement in women inclusion and participation in governance, more work has to be done to increase the growth pace.

She said, “This is one of the good news in Africa. The index shows that gender is improving and that’s absolutely what we see.

“In Africa, when you look at political participation of women in parliament, on average, we are about 23 per cent of women making up the

parliament in Africa.

“Now, when you look at the detail, you have some of the best performing even in the commonwealth coming from Africa.

“I am glad that the index also looks at violence against women and girls. That’s very important because quite the work that we still need to do to get to SDG goal 5 which is 50-50.

“We are still not at 30 per cent.

We are doing well but there is still a lot to do to get to 50-50 by 2030.

“Then we come to the nitty-gritty about violence against women which is such a big deal these days.

Africa is doing well but there is no time for complacency,” Mensah said.

NAN reports that from the index, Nigeria was shown to be rapidly improving its inclusion of more women in economic processes.

However, on overall implementation of gender inclusion policies, the country scored 53.6 with a growth rate of 7.2, ranking 31 out of 54 African countries.

This is marked as a slow improvement.

Meanwhile, Nigeria did not fare too well in other gender-based categories as although scores were high, growth rates were either too slow or not improved over the last ten years.

In women’s political representation, which is where the country records the lowest score, Nigeria scored 22.5, ranked 50 and had a negative growth rate of -12.4.

Also, in laws on violence against women, Nigeria scored 33.3 and ranked 29 with a growth rate of 8.3.

In women labour force participa-

ECOWAS electoral commission partners GIZ to equip media on election reporting

T

HE Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Network of Electoral Commissions (ECONEC) has called for trust, openness and cooperation between election management bodies and the media to ensure the delivery of credible, transparent and peaceful elections in West Africa.

“The media remains the most reliable instrument through which electoral issues involving participation and inclusivity are encouraged,” Prof Mahmood Yakubu, president of the ECONEC governing board and Chair of Nigeria’s Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) said in Abuja, on Monday, 29th October, in a welcome address to the opening of a two-day regional media training workshop on professional reporting of elections in the ECOWAS region.

Represented by the INEC Acting Chair, Dr Mustapha Lecky, the ECONEC boss said election administrators looked up to the media, to assist in sensitising and mobilising citizens, adding that as the Fourth Estate of the Realm “the media is the gatekeeper in ensuring transparency and accountability in the electoral process.”

He said the workshop organised

by ECONEC with the support of the German agency for International Cooperation, GIZ, is coming several months before major elections in the region, with campaigns by political parties for the 2019 general elections in Nigeria starting in less than three weeks.

“There is no doubt that the media is an important stakeholder and partner,” he added.

The INEC boss noted that the

workshop will address issues such as social media, which benefits he described as “enormous and challenging,” an also address the menace of fake news.

“Another challenge worthy of consideration is the issue of foreign interference with domestic elections through the internet,” Prof Yakubu.

He urged election administrators and journalists to carry out their responsibilities with a high sense of duty and professionalism, to avoid a repeat of the “havoc poorly conducted elections and provocative reportage have caused in our region.”

In his remarks, the Head of ECOWAS Electoral Assistance Division, Mr Francis Oke, acknowledged the support which ECONEC has received from the ECOWAS Commission and development partners, including GIZ and the Open Society Initiative for West Africa (OSIWA), since its formation in 2008.

He stressed that such collaborative partnership should be sustained to enable ECONEC, which is a technical arm of ECOWAS, to delivery on its mandate of promoting credible elections and consolidation of democracy in the region.

GIZ representative, Mrs Phidelia Amey explained that the training workshop comes under the agency’s ECOWAS Support Programme, focusing on trade and customs and peace and security, which also cover electoral issues.

She said that since the media plays a key role in shaping the narrative of political conversation, the workshop will encourage media professionals to be more informative and educative of the electorate on electoral matters.

•President Muhammad Buhari meeting with Governors from the South South states, (from left): Seriake Dickson of Bayelsa, Udom Emmanuel of Akwa Ibom; Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta, and Nyesom Wike of Rivers and Seriake Dickson of Bayelsa, Tuesday at the State House, Abuja.

tion, Nigeria ranked 35 scoring 50 with a growth rate of 2.6.

This was marked as an increasing improvement.

For promotion of gender equality, Nigeria scored 51.3, ranked 22 with a growth rate of 6.3.

The country received warning signs to improve its policies in this area.

Although Nigeria scored 71.1 for

gender parity in primary and lower secondary schools, ranking 23 with a growth rate of 17.9, it received warning signs for improvement.

For representation of women in the judiciary, there was no improvement over the last ten years. It remained at 75 and Nigeria ranked 18.

Furthermore, in women political empowerment, Nigeria scored 75.9, ranked 26 with a growth rate of 10.2.

The Mo Ibrahim Foundation was established in 2006 with a focus on the critical importance of leadership and governance in Africa, by providing tools to assess and support progress in leadership and governance.

The IIAG provides an annual assessment of the quality of governance in African countries and is the most comprehensive collection of data on African governance.

loyalty and national unity.

He prayed God Almighty to provide succour to his family members, the government, people of Edo and others who mourn, and grant his soul eternal rest.

Similarly, the Social Democratic Party (SDP) said that the immeasurable contribution of late Anenih to the unity, peace and stability of the country is not hidden.

The party in a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Alfa Mohammed, said that the deceased was known across Nigeria’s political spectrum for his stance for the unity and stability of the country.

“Chief Anenih was one of those who fought and earned our current democracy.

“He strongly believed that the unity and stability of the nation under a democratic government is not negotiable.

“This was vividly reflected in his past roles on related issues in the political history of our country.”

He added that the deceased would be remembered for living a life of tremendous service to the nation while serving as a senior police officer, National Chairman, SDP, in the aborted third republic, and former Works Minister.

“For his good deeds and contributions toward peace and stability of the country, his name would continue to appear in gold whenever the history of this country is being rewritten.”

Also, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Presidential Candidate, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, says the death of Chief Tony Anenih, has left a vacuum in the political landscape.

Abubakar said this in a statement issued by his Media Aide, Mr Paul Ibe,

on Monday in Abuja.

He noted that role of the deceased had played in ensuring stability not only in the PDP but also in the country at large, stood him out as a patriot who dedicated his life to the service of humanity.

Abubakar said that the late Anenih did his best for the country, adding that his death at a time the nation was going into electioneering campaigns was saddening.

“Indeed, I have lost a great friend of decades.

“I am particularly pained that Chief Anenih left the stage at a time the party and the nation need his wealth of experience the more, especially in our collective quest to restore good governance and democratic ideals in our country.”

Abubakar, who described Anenih as a great political colossus and patriot, said his ability to consistently, at every turn, resolve knotty political puzzles, earned him the sobriquet of ‘Mr. Fix It’.

He commiserated with the family of the deceased, the government and people of Edo State and urged them to take solace in the fact that the elder statesman left his indelible footprints on the annals of the nation’s democratic history.

On his part, former Senate President David Mark said that Anenih lived an eventful and accomplished life worthy of emulation.

Mark, in a statement issued by his media aide, Mr Paul Mumeh, on Monday in Abuja, said that Anenih’s death was a huge loss to the nation and devastating to the political class.

He noted that the politicians had benefited from his reservoir of experience to navigate through the murky waters.

Jonathan, IBB, Atiku, Mark, SDP mourn late Anenih

F

ORMER President Goodluck Jonathan has commiserated with the family of the late Chief Tony Anenih, who died Sunday at the age of 85, describing him as a patriot and mentor to many Nigerians.

Jonathan stated this in a statement issued by his Media Aide, Mr Ikechukwu Eze, on Monday.

He described the death as the exit of the great nationalist and founding member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) which was a sad loss to the party and the nation.

He said that the rich political experience, sincere patriotism and deep wisdom of late Anenih were qualities Nigerians still needed to cultivate for national cohesion, growth and development.

“Late Chief Tony Anenih was a great asset to our dear nation. For a long time, he remained a leading light in our party and in Nigeria’s political firmament, charting the course for peace, unity and the entrenchment of true democracy in our nation.

“Even in old age and in retirement Chief Tony Anenih continued to inspire and mentor younger politicians as a demonstration of his deep commitment to Nigeria’s growth and progress.

“He was indeed a leader with an exceptional knack for initiating wellconsidered strategies for political stability in the nation.

Jonathan said that Anenih served the country diligently in different capacities, distinguishing himself in the security systems, business, politics and peace-building.

“Anenih left a legacy of remarkable achievements through selfless service to humanity and deep commitment to peace, democracy, party

5

The Oracle Today Wednesday November 7, 2018

NEWS

Violence against Persons bill scales second reading at Enugu Assembly

T

he bill seeking to eliminate Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) (VAPP) and other related matters on Tuesday scaled second reading at the Enugu State House of Assembly.

The bill, which was a private member bill, was sponsored by Mr. Chukwuka Eneh (PDP Udi South).

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the assembly had on October 23 stepped down the bill for further legislative consultation.

NAN also reports that House of Representatives passed the bill in 2013 followed by the Senate in 2015.

Eneh, in his submission, said the bill if passed, would eliminate violence against private and public lives, physical, sexual, psychological, domestic, harmful traditional practices and discrimination against persons.

He said that it would also provide maximum protection and effective remedies for victims and punishment to offenders and other matter related there with.

In his contribution, Mr James Akado (PDP Igbo Etiti West) said that the bill was timely though the assembly had passed a similar bill but the punishment of the previous bills were not clearly stated like this very one.

Akado commended the facilitators of the bill for a job well done and urged his colleagues for accelerated passage.

Mr. Obinna Okenwa (PDP Enugu South Urban) described the bill as `an improvement’ to the previous passed related bill.

Okenwa said that if the bill was passed, it would go a long way in protecting all persons irrespective of gender unlike the previous bills which would always give protection to only women and children.

Member representing Nsukka West constituency, Mrs. Nkechi Omeje-Ogbu said that the bill was apt as it would address incessant rape cases in the state.

The Speaker of the assembly, Chief Edward Ubosi, thanked his colleagues for a robust debate and referred the bill to joint committee on Youths and Sports, Judiciary, Gender Affairs for public hearing.

Ubosi urged the joint committee to conduct a public hearing on the bill and report back to the house in two weeks.

He commended the sponsor of the bill for a job well done and adjourned sitting till Thursday Nov. 1.

In the same vein, the Assembly received a message from the state Governor, Chief Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, for immediate screening of Mr. Clifford Obe as Local Government Administrator in Igbo-Eze North East Development Centre.

The leader of the house, Mr. Ikechukwu Ezeugwu who was represented by his deputy, Mrs. Onyinye Ugwu moved a motion for the screening while Mr. Paul Nnajiofor of Nkanu East seconded the motion.

The nominee, while responding to some of the questions, said that if confirmed that he would take the good work of the state government back to the grassroots.

The assembly however, confirmed the appointment of Obe as administrator in Igbo-Eze North East development centre.

Evolve policies to check counterfeiting -- Group urges FG

By Oge Onyeanusi, Nnewi

T

he Anti-Piracy Society of Nigeria has concluded its delegates conference which drew executive members from the 21 local government areas of Anambra State, with a call on government at all levels to make better policies that will help to bridge the gap between the public sector and the populace in the fight against piracy.

Founder and President of the group, Mr Frank Uduonu who made the call in his opening remarks during the Delegates Conference of officers in the six geo-political zones of the country which kicked off with Anambra State said the event is designed to impact on officers in their roles and obligations towards curbing influx of

pirated products across the nation.

Uduonu expressed dismay over the gap being created by those saddled with the work of eradicating piracy and stressed the need to educate the masses on how to make a choice between original and counterfeit products as the wrong option affects the society tomorrow.

Delivering their lectures , the Anambra State Governor Chief Willie Obiano, represented by his Senior Special Assistant’s on Youths Mobilization Engr. Tony Uche Ezekwelu and Public Utilities &Water Resources Engr Victor Meju urged the members of the group not to relent in their efforts to fight piracy and called for collaborations of all to eradicate fake and substandard products.

In his speech , the Anambra State

Commissioner of Police CP Garba Umar represented by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Haruna Mohammed dealt extensively on the Nigerian Police’s efforts to minimise piracy’s menace both economically, socially and psychologically in the society and called for vital information to the police.

SP Haruna who spoke on the social responsibilities and obligations of all to eradicate these ills called for a collective efforts to sensitized Nigerians to the grassroots on dangers of piracy, and urged them to shun greed and embark on advocacy visit in their areas.

Earlier, Anambra State Coordinator, Standard Organization of Nigeria (SON), Engr Williams Okpeh represented by Alex Nwukor said for

the nation to rid piracy, there must be partnership, collaboration and agreement among the stakeholders with the manufacturers and publics as it will fill information gaps among them.

According to him, SON is solidly behind the group and urged all to embrace quality and shun piracy which is a challenge all must fight.

Zonal Coordinator Consumer Protection Council, Ngozika Obidike represented by Nwafor Izunna pledged to partner with the group in their campaign to eradicate fake and pointed information as important tool to fight the piracy.

Mr Chuka Nwosu of Anambra State NAFDAC Zonal Laboratory Agulu, spoke on the dangers of fake, substandard to the people and described it as an offence against humanity.

2019: Shun negative engagements by politicians -- Ebonyi council boss urges police, others

C

• Anambra State Commissioner of Police CP Garba Umar represented by Police Public Relations Officer ,SP Haruna Mohammed, speaking during the Anti-Piracy Society of Nigeria (South East zone) delegates’ conference which drew executive members from the 21 local government areas of the state at the East End Hotel in Awka, the state capital, Monday

2019: Ex-councillors drum support for Ugwuanyi’s re-election

G

overnor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State has continued to receive more endorsements for a second term in office, as former councillors in the state under the auspices of Ex-Councillors Forum, between 1999-2015, unanimously agreed to rally support for his reelection in 2019.

The ex-legislators, who gathered in their numbers at the Government House, Enugu on a solidarity visit, said their decision was based on Gov. Ugwuanyi’s outstanding performance in office, especially “in the areas of infrastructural provisions, workers’ welfare, restoration of political stability and above all, the creation of enabling environment for peace and security in Enugu State”.

Moving the motion for the endorsement of the governor for a second term in office, Hon. Barr. Ike Owoh, who represented Abia Ward in Udi Local Government Area, between 1999-2002, stated that he was constrained to move the motion to enable the governor “to continue with his good works in Enugu sState”.

Seconding the motion moved by

Hon. Owoh, the former councillor who represented Oduma Ward II in Aninri L.G.A (2007-2015) Rt. Hon. Nwafor-Odii Onyii Tunde, said he was “driven by unreserved sincerity and honesty of heart with the utmost conviction” that Gov. Ugwuanyi has “performed excellently in this first tenure of his governance of the most peaceful state of the federation - Enugu State”.

Hon. Nwafor-Odii stressed that the governor “beyond any human imagination, deserves a non-negotiable second tenure in the office as consented to by the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (1999) as amended”.

“On this brief note therefore, I speak unequivocally to second the perfectly delivered motion of endorsement of His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Ifeanyi Lawrence Ugwuanyi (Gburugburu) by my colleague, as our number one and only candidate for 2019 governorship election so as to accomplish all his well-directed visions and mission for the people of Enugu State”, he seconded.

Adopting the motion unanimously, after it was put to a voice vote by the

leader of the forum, Hon. Chidiebere Okoh, the ex-councillors endorsed Gov. Ugwuanyi for a second term in office and also presented the Endorsement Certificate to him as a symbol of their support and noble resolution.

They reassured the governor of their firm commitment to mobilize and campaign vigiourosly for his electoral victory in the 2,956 polling units, declaring: We are ever ready to fight the battle for you”.

Earlier, in his remark, the group’s coordinator, Rt. Hon. Kizito Awalu, applauded Gov. Ugwuanyi for his absolute faith in God, and congratulated him, on behalf of his colleagues, on the historic victory recorded by the Rangers International Football Club of Enugu, in the finals of the NFF/AITEO Federation Cup, pointing out that it was a clear manifestation that governor always trusts his faith in God. Gov. Ugwuanyi, who thanked the elated ex-legislators for their solidarity, goodwill and support, reassured them of his administration’s commitment to the growth and development of the state.

hairman, Afikpo South Local Government Area of Ebonyi, Chief Eni Uduma, has called on security agencies to resist the attempt by “desperate politicians” to use them to achieve their selfish aims ahead of the 2019 elections.

Uduma said this on Monday in Abakaliki while addressing newsmen on his recent arrest by the police on the allegations of kidnapping, car snatching and armed robbery, said to be levelled against him by one Kalu Chima.

The council boss described his arrest on Thursday, Oct. 25, at his residence, off Watchman Street, New Layout, Abakaliki, as “politically-motivated”.

He noted that no amount of “political witch-hunt and blackmail” would stop PDP’S victory in his council area and Ebonyi in general.

He further said that members of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ebonyi would not succumb to intimidation, harassment and blackmail in the build up to 2019 general elections.

Narrating his ordeal, Uduma said that no fewer than 50 heavily-armed policemen stormed his residence, dislodged his armed security aide and whisked him away.

“The presence of the police, numbering at least 50, caused tension and panic among residents in my neighborhood. I was arrested and taken to the state police headquarters, where I was told that there were allegations of kidnapping, car snatching and armed robbery against me.

“A man I have never seen in my life, who was introduced to me as Mr Kalu Chima, in the company of others, alleged that they witnessed the kidnapping of one Miss Ijeoma Chima,” he said.

Uduma said that he was also alleged to have been involved in a car snatching that purportedly took place at Onueke in Ezza South.

He said, to further buttress his point, that “there was no known identity of the said victim allegedly kidnapped.”

He called on the police, Department of State Security, Civil Defence, army and other security operatives in Ebonyi “to resist attempts by desperate politicians to use them to truncate the 2019 general elections in the state.”

Police Public Relations Officer, Mrs Lovett Odah, confirmed the arrest of Uduma, saying that he was released on bail while investigation was ongoing to ascertain the veracity of the allegations.

6

The Oracle Today Wednesday November 7, 2018

NEWS Urualla in Imo endorse Atiku-Obi ticket

T

he Atiku-Obi political alliance continues for 2019 general election for the country’s presidential race has continued to be appreciated by most Nigerians, especially the people of Ibo extraction in the southeast geo-political zone.

Part of this appreciation was shown at the end of the year gettogether of the people of Urualla in Imo State led by their chairman, Chief Sir Anthony Ndubizu and secretary in their address of welcome.

They described the Atiku-Obi political alliance as a welcome development and a good choice of a vice president in view of the political ingenuity of Mr. Peter Obi, the former governor of Anambra State, who they said transformed the state between 2006 to 2014 through a strict adherence to his millennium development goals (MDGs) which touched on all the facets of Anambra State Economy, culminating to his invitation to appear at the 69th session of the united nation assembly in New York.

The Urualla indigenes in Anambra acknowledged the unprecedented political skill of former governor Peter Obi which enabled him to rehabilitate and reconstruct roads spanning through all the three senatorial zones of the state, including the whole council areas, from Ogbaru to Anambra west and

from Onitsha to Awka.

They noted that hospitals, churches, schools and other public institutions had a feel of Obi’s good governance in which the state’s resources was prudently managed, leaving a huge fund in the state’s coffers after his exit as governor of Anambra State!

The people of Urualla who are the early settlers in Onitsha thanked Mr. Peter Obi for socially and financially dislodging Anambra State of “Shenanigans” who held the state hostage. They therefore christened the famous governor, “The Odenigbo of Urualla Clan” and thus pledged their unalloyed support to him, expressing the confidence that Mr. Peter Obi would help to transform Nigeria if the citizens appreciate his political Wizardry and voted massively for Atiku-Obi Alliance in the country’s general election.

The members of Urualla Federated Union Onitsha branch thus called on the whole electorate in the country to rely heavily on the people’s Democratic Party Presidential candidate for the 2019 general election in order to remove the nation from its present socioeconomic and political quagmire.

They also called on Mr. Peter Obi to extend his spirit of Philanthropism to the edifice they were building as “Urualla Recreation Centre”.

APC has no chance in Ebonyi, Umahi’s aide

By CHINEDU NWAFOR, Abakaliki

S

• Catholic Archbishop of Onitsha, His Grace, Most Rev Valerian Maduka Okeke flanked by Anambra State Deputy Governor, Nkem Okeke (l) and former state governor, Peter Obi during the handover of the N30m skills acquisition centre built by the cleric inside the Onitsha Prisons to authorities of the Nigerian Prisons Service (NPS)

Ugwuagba Obosi elects new exco

By Oge Onyeanusi Nnewi

A

ten-man executive committee of the Old Motor Car Parts Dealers Association Ugwuagba Obosi was officially elected and inaugurated by the state commissioner for Trade, Commerce, Market and Wealth Creation, Dr. Christian Madubuko.

Speaking shortly after the inauguration, Madubuko urged the new executive members to carry every member of the association along in their dealings.

The commissioner reminded them that the Anambra Government on Friday reiterated its resolve to deal with fake revenue collectors for sabotaging effort at improving internally Generated Revenue (IGR) in the state.

Madubuko, who said the state government would henceforth go tough on culprits, directed the traders to report and apprehend

give reelection 100% support; because Ebonyi State has never had it so good. Today, our people can proudly say, I’m from Ebonyi state, courtesy of the transformation and quality leadership of our dear Governor,” she asserted.

Some members of the group from Yoruba and Hausa communities who are resident in the state also too turns to speak on why Governor Umahi deserved reelection, saying the Governor had shown non indigenes residing in the state uncommon hospitality and accommodation especially by appointing some of them as Aides.

The group pledged to work for the reelection of governor Umahi come 2019 to enable him complete

By Theo Rays, Onitsha the good works he had started.

pecial Assistant (SA) to Governor David Umahi of Ebonyi State on Solid Minerals, Mrs Jacinta Nworie, Monday, said the numerous achievements of the Governor in all sectors has buried the chances of the All Progressives Congress,APC, in the 2019 general elections in the state.

Nworie who made this this during the endorsement of Umahi’s reelection by Human Rights Advocacy Organization in collaboration with David Umahi House to House Campaign, noted that the Governor has transformed the entire state such that opposition elements were bereft of genuine facts with which to campaign against him.

He said that the two groups came together as supporters of good governance to work for the deserving reelection of governor Umahi having seen his excellent performance in less than four Years in office.

“The administration of Umahi has built three flyover bridges, reconstructed 70% of all the roads both in the capital city and 13 local government areas of the state which were hitherto not motorable, energized the capital city with street lights, empowered youths, women, widows and less privileged persons, pays medical bills of the poor, total transformation of the capital city and regular payment of workers’ salaries among other numerous achievements.

“Having seen what he is doing, we are compelled as human rights group to support his vision and • Gov. Umahi

any illegal revenue collector to law enforcement officers.

“Government is battling to put an end to extortion in the markets by ensuring transparent elections of market leaders.

“Henceforth, nobody is allowed to collect any levy in the markets except those authorized to collect stall fees, trader tax and sanitation levies which are the only approved levies.

“All those flying authority letters with forged government signatures will soon be arrested and prosecuted.

“We want sanity and peace to return to our markets,” Madubuko said, urging the traders to support the new leadership in the herculean task of administering the market.

The commissioner reaffirmed the commitment of Gov. Willie Obiano’s administration to improve infrastructure, security of

lives and property across the state.

In his remarks, Chief Okwudili Ezenwankwo, Chairman, SouthEast Amalgamated Market Traders Association, urged the new leadership to sustain the relative peace currently existing in the market.

Ezenwankwo also urged them to complement Gov. Willie Obiano’s N10 million projects in all the markets by ensuring proper accountability of all levies generated from the market.

In his acceptance speech, Chief Okechukwu Ezeobodo, who polled 1,296 votes to emerge as the President-General of the market, appealed for cooperation so as to deliver on his promises in the market.

It was gathered that Ezeobodo defeated six other chairmanship aspirants to emerge the leader of the market popularly known as ‘Mgbuka Obosi’.

manner the decision was arrived at. I know there would have been better ways to have come up with the decision. But thank God Atiku remembered us this time after many years of marginalization,” she said.

She further called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to maintain neutrality and unbiased disposition ahead of the 2019 general elections.

She advised that insisting on doing the right thing would not only produce credible and acceptable results, but would also reduce the number of litigations.

“I plead with INEC to do the needful as the final arbitar. Asking people to go to tribunal after election would not be the best option,” she added.

The ex -governor also encouraged the eligible voters to obtain their permanent voters cards and vote wisely during the polls.

Etiaba: “We should endeavour to get our PVCs ready and to vote according to our conscience. Nobody should be coerced into voting for the candidate that is not his or her choice. But the score card is very necessary while voting. Remember it’s not only APC and PDP that are contesting the election.

There are about 70 other presidential aspirants.”

She also cautioned youths to eschew electoral violence, insisting that election should not be seen as do-or-die affair.

“Life has no duplicate. Mothers in particular should advise their children not to resort to violence.

It is not a do-or-die affair.

“Remember, he that fights and runs away, lives to fight another day. There should not be violence.

Though there are signs of violence, we pray against such,” Etiaba added.

Obi: Controversy unnecessary - Etiaba

E

x-Governor, Dame Virgy Etiaba of Anambra State has described as unnecessary the ongoing controversy about the choice of former Governor Peter Obi as running mate to the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Alhaji Atiku Abubakar.

Lending her voice on the issue the ex-governor explained that the manner in which the decision was taken might not have been the best, but was of the opinion that the outburst was uncalled for.

Etiaba adjudged to be the first female Governor in Nigeria who spoke to newsmen in her country home, Nnewi at the weekend, asked the aggrieved members to sheath their swords and accept the choice in good faith.

“Those aggrieved by the choice might have felt slighted due to the

7

The Oracle Today Wednesday November 7, 2018

NEWS

Group donates to Anambra flood victims

By Theo Rays, Onitsha

C

hairman of Human Rights Defenders of Nigeria (HRDN), Dede Uzor A Uzor, has called on faith-based organizations, private and public spirited groups and individuals to donate generously for the sustainance of flood victims in different Internally Displaced Persons’ (IDPs) camps in Anambra State.

Dede Uzor who spoke during the week when he led a team of his group to donate items to IDPs at Bishop Crowther Memorial Primary School, Onitsha, said Government alone should not be left to shoulder

the burden of taken care of the IDPs. Uzor said his group had a fortnight ago donated different items to the Ogbaru camp, promising to do more when more of their members respond to their requests. He promised that his group will continue to do what they could to make life bearable for the IDPs by presenting items to them when available.

Secretary of the human right body, Comrade Charles Ejifonye, also promised that they will do more if more of their members respond to their calls, saying that what they donated was what they could do for now.

He also joined in the call for other

organizations and public spirited individuals to join in providing relief materials to the flood victims.

The Camp Manager for Anambra West Local Government, Mr.Matins Nwambu, commended the group for their gesture and prayed that God would bless them.

He commended individuals and organizations for their support so far in supporting the flood victims with the relief materials.

He denied that the victims were not being taken good care of especially in the area of feeding, saying that the State Government with support of individuals and organizations,

have lived up to expectation.

He said the State Government kills two cows every week for the IDPS from Anambra West alone and they feed them three times everyday.

Nwabu said he could understand the plights of the IDPs, since they were not in their homes, there was nothing you can do to make them feel happy.

The Representatives of the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) at the camp, Nnanyelugo Anthony Achebe, said the Government was trying in taking care of the IDPS but stated that Government alone cannot do shoulder the task, hence

Ebonyi Govt probes N2bn CBN agric loan

Embrace politics to reduce hardship in Nigeria -- PFN tells Christians From BONIFACE OKORO, Umuahia

BY CHINEDU NWAFOR, Abakaliki

T

he Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), Abia State chapter, has advised Christians to go into politics so as to provide good leadership that would reduce the suffering of the masses.

Secretary of Abia PFN, Rev Blessed Amalambu, who gave the advice in Umuahia, observed that Nigerians were experiencing hardship resulting from maladministration because genuine Christians who should provide quality leadership were being discouraged from venturing into politics.

“I am an advocate that Christians should go into politics, cleanup the system and make it clean and admirable,” said Amalambu during an interview on the sideline of the group’s monthly meeting.

Amalambu argued that when genuine Christians go into politics, they would change the face of the game in Nigeria from the erroneous notion that politics was a dirty game.

“I object to the expression that politics is a dirty game. If a dirty person goes into politics, then politics becomes dirty. If a clean person goes into it, it becomes clean. So, we determine whether it will be dirty or not by the type of people that play the game,” he said.

The Abia PFN scribe noted that the Bible recommended that righteous and God-fearing people should occupy leadership positions, adding that through them, “God administers the people.”

“Leadership is not all for money and wealth; leadership is service to the people, giving the people all they need by the directives and guidance of God. When somebody is closer to God, the person will perform excellently.

“So, when a Christian occupies a political office, the glory of God will be enhanced. But when an unbeliever goes into politics, he will project the devil and the devil has a mission which is to steal, to kill and to destroy.

“That is why we have confusion today, because many people that go into governance are not Godfearing. They don’t know the truth about the word of God, they don’t know God. They don’t know what it takes to be a true leader,” Amalambu emphasised.

“I want to encourage Christian leaders, being led by God, to go into politics and when they are there, they should not compromise the standard of the scripture. They should go there and represent God, for God will stand by them,” he added.

his appeal for organisations to join hands with Government in providing for the victims.

Achebe said although the water level was receding, he would not know when the people will live the camp because there were certain things they need take home to start life He said that National Emergency Relief Agency (NEMA), brought some items for the victims which have not been distributed among them, coupled with their registration

by N. Power which promised to pay them some money before returning to their homes.

E

• Wife of the Akwa Ibom State Governor, Mrs Martha Udom Emmanuel receiving in audience members of the Association of Ladies Golfers of Nigeria who paid a courtesy visit in the state for the 2018 Nigeria Ladies Open championship taking place at the Ibom Hotel Golf Club, and also to Frist Lady as the Patron of the group, Friday

Cleric donates N30m skills acquisition center to Onitsha prisons

By IBE NWACHUKWU

T

he Catholic Archbishop of Onitsha, His Grace, Most Rev Valerian Maduka Okeke at the weekend, handed over the keys to a skills acquisition centre which he built at Onitsha Prisons at the cost of N30 million to authorities of the Nigerian Prisons Service (NPS).

The handing over ceremony which took place inside the prison shortly after his 65th birthday Mass with the Onitsha prisons inmates at St. Maximilian Kolbe Chaplaincy inside the Onitsha Prisons, was one of the high points of the birthday anniversary ceremonies.

Other high points at the ceremony were the handing over of trophies won inmate football teams at the end of their inter-cell football competitions in honour of the Archbishop’s birthday anniversary, as well as meritorious award given to the Archbishop for his leadership qualities, as the leader of Catholic Church in Anambra state.

Handing over the keys to the State Comptroller of Prisons, Mr Emma Nwakeze, Archbishop explained that the centre would help in providing various skills for the inmates so that when they come out of the place, they would have acquired skills which would enable them become self-employed and even be-

come employers of labour.

He said he was told that the number of inmates has risen to 1,070 this year and that as such, he cooked enough quantity of food and meat with other items like toiletries, among others for the inmates to feel the impact of his birthday celebration.

Earlier in his homily during the Mass, Okeke declared: “these prisoners are like brothers and sisters to me. They should be provided with benefiting skills to prepare them for a better life as well as to enable them to face future challenges of life.

“Moreso, it is obvious that there are some inmates, who may not have committed any crime but found themselves here”, he noted.

Archdiocesan Chancellor, Rev. Fr. Prudentius Aroh, in a brief remark, explained that the Archbishop built the centre with the support of friends, adding that contrary to the action of the Biblical King Herod who beheaded John The Baptist on his birthday, Archbishop Okeke is handing over a skill acquisition center to inmates on his own birthday.

Aroh contended that Archbishop Okeke had contributed immensely to the development and welfare of the prisoners by providing facilities such as water boreholes, free Medicare and dormitories.

Chaplain of St. Maximilian Kolbe Chaplaincy, Onitsha Prisons, Rev. Fr. Nnamdi Okparugo, expressed his gratitude to the celebrant for the gesture, adding that it is only in Onitsha prisons that the Archbishop visits three times in a year.

According to him, “Archbishop Okeke has for years been extending his fatherly love and care to the prisoners that the inmates always looked forward to with great expectations”.

The State Comptroller of Prisons, Nwakeze in response, commended the celebrant for his magnanimity and explained that the size and design of the skill acquisition center is equivalent to that of center in Colorado, United States of America, USA, adding that apart from Colorado, he has never seen such a design somewhere else in Nigeria or any other part of the world.

He therefore appealed to government to assist in equipping the center for effective take off of the skills training, as well as provide medical assistance to inmates.

Commissioning the center, the state Deputy Governor, Dr. Nkem Okeke who represented Governor Willie Obiano, commended the Archbishop for building the center and gave the assurance that government would assist in equipping the center.

bonyi State government says it has commenced probe into the disbursement of N2billion Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), commercial Agricultural credit scheme for 2016 dry and wet season rice farming in the state.

The state Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Chief Cletus Ofoke, who disclosed this in Abakaliki the state capital while briefing journalists on the outcome of the state Executive council meeting, announced the a panel of inquiry headed by the Senior Special Adviser on Religion and Welfare, Rev Fr. Abraham Nwali, has been set up.

According to him, the government resolved that agencies and persons involved in the disbursement of the N2billion Agric loan would be summoned by the panel what a view to determining actually got farmers and how it was disbursed.

He said the inquiry became necessary following the difficulty in recovering the money from the beneficiaries since it was disbursed last year.

“Exco received a report from the Ministry of Justice headed by myself urging the Exco to approve that a commission of inquiry be set up to look into the activities to wit: disbursement, reimbursement and of course Agricultural activities that took place as a result of that loan of N2billion. So, this report was received by Exco and approved that the Governor of the state who is the Chairman of Exco should set up a commission of inquiry to look into management, mismanagement or they like as the case may be.

“So, the Ebonyi state government through the Governor of the state has set up a commission of inquiry to look into the disbursement of N2billion CBN commercial Agricultural credit scheme for 2016 dry and wet season rice farming. The Committee is headed by SSA to the Governor on Religion and Welfare, Rev, Fr. Abraham Nwali. By the provision of section 3(sub section 1) of the commission of inquiry laws of Ebonyi state of Nigeria 2009, the governor has power to so do. We expect from the terms of reference and the mandate given to the committee that that report will be made public and to the Exco within four weeks.

“The Exco also resolved that whoever agencies, persons or they like who were directly or indirectly involved in the disbursement should be called upon to answer one or two questions what a view to determining whether the amount was dutiful spent to farmers; who and who got what”.

8

The Oracle Today Wednesday November 7, 2018

NEWS Choice of Obi shows Atiku’s desire for inclusive government From BONIFACE OKORO, Umuahia

B

y picking Mr. Peter Obi as his running mate, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Presidential candidate, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, has demonstrated his desire to run an inclusive government, Dr Uwaoma Uche has said.

Uche, an Associate Professor of Mass Communication, also noted that Atiku has demonstrated faith in Nigeria by domiciling his investments in the country while his political antecedents portray him as one who is not greedy for power.

Uche also told The Oracle Today in an interview in Umuahia that Atiku’s emergence as the PDP presidential flag bearer was a reward for patience and loyalty.

He stressed that by choosing Obi, Atiku would carry Ndigbo along as opposed to the marginalization of the people under President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration.

“The choice of an Igbo man as his Vice Presidential candidate is what shows that Atiku understands the process of restructuring because Buhari tried to gloss over the issue of restructuring and did not attend to the demands of Ndigbo that they have been marginalized over the period.

“But that is what Atiku has done now by recognizing an Igbo man in his structure, it is an inclusive agenda of the Atiku programme and which has elicited great support from Ndigbo,” he said.

He also noted that by coming to condole with Abia State government over the pipeline fire that burnt over 200 persons and expressing his desire to have dialogue with Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra were further proof of Atiku’s inclusive agenda and love for Ndigbo.

According to him, Atiku further demonstrated his belief in inclusive governance by ensuring that those who ran with him and lost during the PDP presidential primary held in Port Harcourt were rewarded.

He noted that Atiku’s faith in Nigeria propelled him to invest heavily in the country rather than taking such investments elsewhere.

“Atiku Abubakar is one man who has domiciled all his companies and industries within Nigeria. If he does not believe in the ability of the country called Nigeria, he would not domicile his companies in Nigeria,” he said.

Uche said that Atiku was very popular in 2003 and would have become president of Nigeria if he was greedy for power.

“We believe that Atiku Abubakar is one man who is not greedy for power because in 2003 he would have gotten power as President of Nigeria. It was Atiku who gave power to Obasanjo in 2003 which was the albatross for him that seemed to make him very popular that Obasanjo started fighting him.

“In political discipline and political loyalty, a man like Atiku Abubakar has followed through the chains, serving the YarÁdua family and was not found wanting.

“He has come many times to contest for Presidency and was refused. So, his mergence is an act of God, as reward for service and loyalty. And I think that Nigerians are well positioned now to give such a man like Atiku the presidential seat of Nigeria,” he said.

Polio eradication: Nigeria may receive WHO certification soon From BONIFACE OKORO, Umuahia

T

he Rotary International has expressed optimism that Nigeria would attain the status of a polio-free nation that would attract World Health Organisation certification soon.

Assistant Governor, Zone 5 of Rotary International, District 9142, Umuahia, Abia State, Sir Chimdi Oluoha, made this known in Umuahia when members of the District concluded End-the-Polio Walk in the Abia State capital as part of the activities to mark the 2018 Rotary Family Health Days.

The District had earlier carried out a three-day free health services which featured HIV testing and counselling, dental care, Cervical/ Breast/Prostrate Cancer screening, diabetes and glucose level screening, polio immunization, and tuberculosis screening at Laguru-Ubakala Health Center in Umuahia South local government area.

Oluoha’s assurance is coming eight months after the WHO Country Director, Dr. Wondimagegnehu Alemu, disclosed in Uyo, Akwa last

February that a Polio-free certification could be granted Nigeria by next year if no Wild Polio virus is detected in any part of the country within the period.

The Oracle Today gathered that Nigeria has remained polio-free since August 2016. WHO had in September 25, 2015, announced that Nigeria was polio-free and was officially removed from the list of countries where polio is endemic, after no Wild Polio was detected in the country in 14 months.

The Rotarian who spoke at the Umuahia Township Stadium said he was optimistic that Nigeria would receive polio-free certification because the level of awareness on eradicating the disease in the country has yielded positive results.

“To mark the 2018 World Polio Day, all over the world, Rotarians embarked on advocacy activities. To mark the day in Umuahia, Rotarians decided to embark on the End-Poliowalk to sensitize Abians on the need to join hands with the Rotary International to eradicate polio in Nigeria totally,” he said.

He, therefore, charged Abians to

carry the polio eradication message to all parts the state and encourage mothers to present their children for immunization through which polio and other killer-diseases would be eradicated.

Contributing, the President of Rotary Club, Umuahia Central, Rtn. Martins Uchenna Kalu, revealed that the Rotary Club International had spent over $10 billion on polio eradication campaign globally since 1988.

Also, the President of Rotary Club, Umudike, Rtn. Obuora Okoye, expressed happiness over the large turnout of members for the walk which, he said, recorded a huge success.

World Polio Day is celebrated on October 24, globally, to create awareness towards eradication of polio as well as to commemorate the efforts of thousands of employees of WHO and other volunteers committed to the eradication of Polio.

It was established by Rotary International over a decade ago to commemorate the birth of Jonas Salk, who led the first team to develop a vaccine against poliomyelitis.

• Air Peace Head of Monitoring and Compliance, Joy Imeli (left), Corporate Communications Manager, Mr. Chris Iwarah, Cabin Services Manager, Florence Opia and Airport Coordinator, Mrs. Clementina Ukonze during the cutting of the cake to mark Air Peace fourth anniversary at the General Aviation Terminal of the Murtala Muhammed Airport, Lagos on Wednesday

Foundation embarks on awareness creation on breast, cervical cancers in Anambra

By IBE NWACHUKWU

A

n Australian-based charity organization, Onyebuchi Chris Ifediora Foundation (OCIF), has embarked on an awareness creation and empowerment campaign against breast and cervical cancers in Anambra state.

The awareness campaign programme which included a health symposium, is its second edition, has its theme as “Breast Self Examination (BSE) and the creation of awareness for the prevention of breast and cervical cancers among young women”.

President of the Foundation, Dr Chris Ifediora who disclosed this to newsmen yesterday in Onitsha, noted that the one-day symposium, being organized for over 300 secondary school girls, their principals and their teachers from 26 schools in the state, was in partnership with

the Foundation for Health and Development (FHD).

According to Ifediora, “the foundation was concerned with the high rate of cancer in the society, especially in remote areas due to lack of awareness on preventive measures among young women, adding, the symposium is aimed at empowering our young women on ways to prevent and identify early symptoms of breast and cervical cancers”.

“Elsewhere in the developed world, the healthcare systems provide free screenings and vaccinations as the case may be but here in Nigeria, Nigerian women have no such privilege; yet, they are exposed to the same risks. The costs of treatment for those affected are beyond the reach of many Nigerian women”, he stated.

“We intend to expand our health programmes on breast and cervical

cancer awareness and prevention, but we will need more resources, partners and support to make it more sustainable and far reaching,” he said.

He said the event would hold at Stella Maris Secondary School, Umueri for students in Secondary Schools of Otuocha Educational Zone, comprising Anambra East, Anambra West and Ayamelum Local Government Areas of the state.

According to him, the wife of the state governor, Mrs Ebelechukwu Obiano, a representative of the World Health Organization (WHO) and some stakeholders in the education, health, women affairs, among others will grace the event.

“Special lecture by a Consultant Public Health Physician; Video Demonstrations on BSE; handing out of Information factsheets and speeches by distinguished guests will form part of the highlights of the occasion,” the president added.

Nigerian environment challenging to industries - Mbonu

By Oge Onyeanusi, Nnewi

I

ndustrialist, Engr. Okechukwu Mbonu, has said that the environment upon which industries operate in Nigeria has remained very challenging to the operators; and hardly gives room for fast growth of such entities operating in the land.

Engr. Mbonu, chairman of CUTIX Plc, cable manufacturing company in Nnewi, Anambra State, stated this during a press briefing preparatory for the company’s Annual General Meeting, AGM, coming up on Friday.

He said that economic instability coupled with Nigeria’s multi decade long electricity problems were mitigating factors that compelled companies, including CUTIX PLC, to rely on relatively more costly AGO powered generating sets; thereby, increasing cost of production.

He said, however that despite the challenges, the company still recorded positive changes during the 2018 fiscal year, even as he attributed the positive changes to inauguration of Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council, and signing of a series of executive orders aimed at improving the ease of doing business in Nigeria.

In his own remark during the press briefing, Ifeanyi Uzodike, outgoing Chief Executive Officer, CEO, CUTIX Plc, Nnewi, said the company has posted a revenue and profit before tax of N5.1 billion and N661.6 million respectively in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2018 which ended in April 30, 2018.

According to the CEO, when compared to FY 2017 figures of N3.7 billion and N370.1 million, respectively, the growth represents an increase of 38% in revenue and 71% in profit before tax.

He said that the company’ s overall performance was fair taking into consideration the economic situation of Nigeria; adding that even in the face of the economic reality in the country, the company had maintained its normal staff strength of over 200 persons.

Uzodike, who is billed to hand over barton to the company’s former secretary, Ijeoma Oduonye, as new CEO of CUTIX Plc in November this year, also informed that between the time he took over as the CEO of the company at the second half of 2019 and April 2018, the company’s revenue profile rose from N1.32 billion to N5.1 billion; adding that profit before tax grew from N134.1 million to N661.6 million; just as profit after tax rose from N78. 3 million to N440.3 million.

Net assets of the company, according to him, grew from N400.1 million to N1.3 billion; while dividend payout grew from N63.4 million to N178.1 billion.

POLITICS

9

The Oracle Today Wednesday November 7, 2018

L

ast Wednesday, hoodlums invaded the premises of a High Court in Okpuala Ngwa, headquarters of Isiala Ngwa North Local Government Area of Abia State.

According to reports, the invaders did not only stop the Court from sitting, but were alleged to have also beaten up some members of a faction of the All Progressives Congress (APC) who were in the court for the case in respect of the leadership tussle between two factions of the party slated for hearing that day.

The development was another scene from the unfolding drama in the power tussle between two factions of APC, Abia State chapter.

The fierce struggle for control of the leadership of Abia APC is between the Donatus Nwankpa-led faction which is enjoying the support of the national secretariat as well as bigwigs like its 2019 governorship candidate, Dr. Sampson Uche Ogah, Senator Nkechi Nwaogu, a former Minister of Labour and Productivity, Chief Emeka Wogu, the 2015 governorship candidate, Chief Nyerere Anyim, among others.

The Dr. Emmanuel Ndukwe-led group is backed by High Chief Ikechi Emenike, who is also the 2019 APC governorship candidate in Abia.

This struggle has been the lot of the party since it came into existence in Abia.

It emerged with a parallel executive which was to be harmonized, with Nwankpa as chairman and Ndukwe as Secretary.

With time, the Ndukwe-led group accused Nwankpa of offending the harmonization spirit, passed a no-confidence vote on him and later headed to the Okpuala Ngwa High Court to oust him.

Messrs Fabian Okonkwo, Engr Chris Okpechi and Hon Onyebuchi Igodo, filed the suit: HIN/4/2018 against the APC, its national chairman, the Abia State Chairman, Nwankpa, and three others, challenging the legality of Nwankpa’s executive committee.

Ruling on an exparte motion brought by the plaintiffs on March 8, 2018, Justice Collinton Okoroafor, the presiding judge, directed the party’s national leadership led then by Chief John Odigie-Oyegun to stop dealing with Nwankpa and other members of the Abia APC executive committee, pending the hearing and determination of the substantive suit.

The court also restrained Nwankpa from parading himself as chairman of Abia APC as well as APC National Working Committee from dealing with the factional list of State, Local Government Area and Ward delegates sent to the national secretariat by the Nwankpa- led state executive in any manner until the substantive suit is determined.

With this pronouncement, the faction that instituted the suit appointed Dr. Emmanuel Ndukwe as the APC interim chairman in Abia and went a step further to suspend some members of the party indefinitely, including Nwankpa, for alleged anti-party activities.

However, Nwankpa dismissed the action of the Ndukwe-led group as “irresponsible act by frustrated politicians who want to be noticed,” and urged their supporters to disregard them.

On March 31, 2018, Nwankpa told newsmen in his office that he was still the authentic chairman of Abia APC, despite the Okpuala Ngwa High Court order.

“There is no tussle, there is no controversy … in respect to the true leadership of the APC in Abia State. I am still the Chairman of the party until the congress re-elects me or removes me.”

He said he has appealed against the court order sacking him from office, adding that “having appealed against the court ruling, the order ought to be suspended until that appeal is dispensed with.”

He also argued that the motion that was brought before the court was not an experte motion but a motion on notice, which implies that all steps of service and all processes must have been followed, adding “unfortunately the court was deceived.”

Also on the controversy that surrounded the alleged suspension of Emenike, Nwankpa said Emenike was duly suspended in his ward on January 23, 2018 based on his antiparty activities and the state executive has ratified it.

Ebonyi: Villagers count losses Why Igbo should elevate as Nigerian army rampage New Yam Festival to over missing soldier international cultural fiesta Pg 12 Pg 10

Abia 2019: Apprehension over APC’s chances as internal leadership tussle deepens •Ogah, others may be affected With the 2019 general elections fast approaching, the All Progressives Congress (APC), Abia State chapter, is mired in internal leadership squabble. BONIFACE OKORO reports that party faithful are apprehensive that the lingering leadership struggle may rob the party of its chances in the next year’s polls, unless the factions resolve their differences and work together

•Oshiomhole While the leadership crises deepened, stakeholders of the party at a meeting on April 4, 2018, passed a vote of confidence on the Nwankpa-led State Working Committee (SWC).

The motion for the confidence vote on Nwankpa was moved by the Southeast Zonal Women leader, Mrs. Sally Chinedu, and seconded by Chief Emeka Wogu. The stakeholders also went ahead to equally ratify the suspension slammed on Chief Emenike.

Undaunted and armed with the court ruling conferring legitimacy of the party leadership on them, the Ndukwe-led group attempted to take over the party secretariat on Friday April 20, 2019. But the move resulted in a free-for-all as both factions clashed. The Ndukwe-led group, however, failed to dislodge the Nwankpa faction as swift intervention by security agents saved the day.

This was the scenario before the Saturday, May 5, 2018 Ward Congresses. The congress, for all intents and purposes, provided the factions the legitimate means to wrestle the leadership of the party from the other, so a fierce contest was to be expected. But the parties were said to have opted for harmonization, an effort that hit the rocks.

In the light of the stalemate, the Abia Ward and Local Government Congress Committee headed by a former Speaker of Kogi State House of Assembly, Abdullahi Bello, directed the factions to go and test their popularity in

•Uche Ogah the field.

When it was time to conduct the State Congress, the Congress Committee dispatched to Abia by the National Secretariat arrived Abia and split into two. While the chairman of the Committee, Jonathan Zwingina, with some members conducted the exercise for the Nwankpa-led faction, the Secretary of the Committee, Hajia Rabiu Sulu Gambari, and another member, Garba Sani, supervised the congress of the Ndukwe-led group.

What transpired during party’s congresses is now history but suffice it to say that each faction produced its own executive at the wards, local governments and state levels.

Ndukwe was now duly elected as the state chairman of APC by his group; same for Nwankpa who was returned as the state APC chairman. However, the National Working Committee recognized the Nwankpa-led newly-elected state executive. The struggle continues.

With the congresses over, the factions, on Thursday, June 28, 2018, returned to the Okpuala Ngwa High Court for a ruling on the application by Nwankpa, seeking to vacate the order sacking him as Chairman of Abia APC. In his ruling, Justice Okoroafor insisted that until a higher court upturns his sack order, it remains valid and the implication is that the Emma Ndukwe factional executive committee remains the authentic leadership of the party in Abia State.

“The Order of the Court [sacking Nwankpa executive] remains valid. The failure of the defendants to appeal against the judgment renders it subsisting. The application is hereby dismissed,” the Judge ruled and adjourned to September 26 for further hearing in the matter.

The judge did not end the ruling without rapping Nwankpa for referring to his order sacking him as one made by a “Kangaroo Court.”

Reacting to the ruling, Nwankpa was quoted to have described it as judicial rascality, since, according to him, the matter had been transferred from the Okpuala Ngwa High Court.

“The chief judge of the State had written a letter dated 5th day of May, 2018 transferring and withdrawing the case from Justice Okoroafor. For him to have taken a position after the case has been transferred from his court is a smear, suspicious, conduct and judicial rascality.”

“Secondly, his so-called grounds for not vacating the order are not only frivolous, but incompetent and irresponsible; as he, the judge, admitted that I was not served personally but that the office girl was served.

“The legal matter is a mere academic exercise because the executive that went to court is an executive committee of

Cont’d on page 16

10

The Oracle Today Wednesday November 7, 2018

Bold ‘N’ Blunt

•Gov. Umahi

•Maj Gen Idris Alkali

Ebonyi: Villagers count losses as Nigerian army rampage over missing soldier In this report, CHINEDU NWAFOR, in Abakaliki, writes that peace has continued to elude Onunwakpu and Ogbodo villages in Igbeagu community in Izzi Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, following the incessant bloody clashes between them and their Ukelle community neigbhours in Cross River State. Of recent, they have been counting their losses. Soldier, angered at the apparent kidnap and murder of one of their own who was deployed to the area on a peace-keeping operation boundary crisis between the Ebonyi community and Ukelle but has been declared missing by the authorities, went on a rampage in the area, leaving destruction in their trail.

T

he people of Onunwakpu and Ogbodo villages in Igbeagu community of Izzi Local Government Area,LGA, of Ebonyi State, are now counting their losses following the invasion of the two villages by Nigerian soldiers attached to Nkwagu Military cantonment claiming to be searching for their colleague who was alleged to be missing.

The soldiers were said to have launched the first attack at the Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), camp near Ogbodo Market square, where they allegedly destroyed over fifteen motorcycles and beat up a village head, Chief Mayor Nwakpu.

The camp is housing victims of the boundary crisis between the community and Ukelle in Yala LGA of Cross River State.

The invasion by the solders was not unconnected to the suspicion that the people of Ogbodo and Onunwakpu villages knew the whereabouts of their colleague.

The Villagers further accused the military men of destroying over 20 stores and carting away choice wares and articles of trade while some of them were dispos-

sessed of their cash running into hundreds of thousands of naira.

One of the villagers, Mr. Alex Nkwuda narrated how the military men arrived at the IDPs camp in commando style and proceeded to torture everyone in sight, ordering them to provide their missing colleague. He said that tried as they did to convince the soldiers that they had no knowledge of what they were saying, the troops were not placated.

According to Nkwuda, despite their pleadings, the soldiers descended on them, moving from one room to another beating up people and destroying over 15 motorcycles and some other valuable properties.

He further alleged that the military men had the previous week, come along with one popular Ukelle man known as Mr. Murphy Ebi Abara, who led them to the compounds of some prominent members of the village where they vandalized houses numbering over 20 and injured 13 people before arresting some of them whom they later released after torturing them.

“Today, they came to our village and vandalized more than 18 houses,” Nkwuda said.

In a similar account, the head of Nguji Ojiegbe Village, Chief Lawrence Awo told journalists that the military men bundled his daughter into their van when they visited his compound and forced her daughter to provide information about his whereabouts or be arrested.

Chief Awo narrated that the military men who came on convoy laid siege in his village early that morning and were harassing and intimidating members of the village and this forced them to scamper for safety. He further explained that the community is still battling to recover from its communal crisis with Ukelle in Yala LGA of Cross River State.

“We woke up to see a convoy of soldiers ransacking and beating innocent villagers. As funny as it may sound, we did not know the reason of their action. They beat elderly men and youths mostly, which forced us to run for our safety. On getting

home later at at night, I learnt that many of our people including my daughter and Chief Mayor Nwakpu were also arrested by the soldiers.”

Chief Awo who claimed that the people of his village had no knowledge of who the soldiers said was missing, pleaded with the Federal Government led by Muhammadu Buhari and Chief of Army Staff,Lt. Gen. Buratai, to call on the military men to order as the villages which were still nursing the wounds of the recent clashes between them and their neighbouring community in Cross River, cannot withstand another trauma let alone from the security agents who were supposed to be maintaining peace in the area.

Another Villager who was a victim of the military invasion, Chief Ominyi Mgbada said he was in his compound that fateful day, near the IDPs camp when the soldiers landed on a convoy and began to interrogate one of the villagers whom they later bundled into their van.

He said that the military men also walked

11

The Oracle Today Wednesday November 7, 2018

Bold ‘N’ Blunt

•‘Soldiers’ Allegedly Kill 26 People In Retaliation For Missing Colleague.

•The deployment of soldiers to the affected communities of both states became necessary following a protracted boundary dispute which started in 2005

to one of his tenants who owns a provision store and were asking them questions and suddenly launched attack on him and destroyed every of his property in sight, including gasoline generating set, cartons of beer, plasma television, chairs among others. Not done yet, they started beating everybody in sight, an action that forced storeowners to quickly lock up their stores while some left theirs open and ran for safety.

According to Mgbada, at a point, the soldiers started chasing some boys and whoever they laid their hands on were beaten and bundled into their vans, whereas some of them were busy breaking into stores and destroying properties inside and left after they saw that the whole junction had been deserted.

Chief Mgbada said that few boys were thereafter released at the junction checkpoint, while others were freed in the night of the fateful day, adding that most people who sustained injuries as a result of the heavy torture by the solders were given first Aid by a chemist store in his compound.

“Same day, the soldiers in their usual attire drove past again from Cross River area, with one Hilux but later came back on a convoy and drove to the community, Nwakpu market, in their return started upturning tables of market women selling groundnut away before they began their operation again.

“Our problem is that we don’t know why those soldiers are after our people and this is a community that agreed to cease

fire after over two months of communal crisis with their neighbours. So, seeing soldiers in such action brought great fear and threat to us. They broke all the doors in my compound, ransacked my rooms and took the money my wife used for her groundnut business and my own N7500, which I kept inside my shirt hanging inside my room, totalling N12,500.

“They broke into a chemist store in my compound and damaged all the drugs in the store. One of the sales girls who tried to explain things to them was beaten up.

They moved from store to store, destroying everything they saw, while they drank juice therein,” Chief Mgbada narrated.

Mr. Ernest Innocent was lucky to have escaped when he saw the military men but hinted that 23 shops were destroyed

and 13 villagers injured.

Also, Mr. Anthony Umeh, the Chemist store owner lamented that he lost goods worth over N1m during the rampage, including his nine gallons of diesel. He said one gallon of diesel contains 30 litres which he said were part of the oil he saved from his filling station shut down within the war zone but the military men destroyed the gallons containing the oil.

Mr. Godwin Oriji’s account of the incident was not anything different as he told our reporter that they were at Nwakpu market when the convoy arrived and all the traders took to their heels but he courageously turned back, met the soldiers only to discover they were up to something fishy.

Mr. Oriji said the soldiers accused them of running away, but he was able to let them know that the people were still nursing fear as their enemy may appear in army camouflage to attack them.

Chairman of Igbeagu Stakeholders Forum and Chairman of FADAMA III, Dr. Cletus Nwakpu, while reacting to the allegation of a soldier missing in the village explained that the people of the village had held several meetings aimed at knowing if there was trace of the missing soldier in the area but nothing of such happened.

He appealed to the military authorities to bring the continuous harassment and intimidation of the locals to an end; he further urged the military to extend the search to the Ukelle area, appealing to the people to remain calm and law abiding as all efforts were in place to restore normalcy in the area.

Igbeagu community in Izzi LGA of Ebonyi State had been enmeshed in intractable boundary clashes with Ukelle Community in Yala LGA, Cross River State for some time. But, after a series of negotiations between the two state governors, the two sides accepted to sheath their swords and ten-point peace communique was raised to promote oneness.

Reacting to the invasion, Lt. Colonel S.O Sadiq, the Commandant of Nkwagu military cantonment Abakaliki, said the action of the military was sequel to the missing of one of their men who was suspected to be held hostage by the people of the area.

The Army Commandant said one of his soldiers whose name he could not make known to journalists went on motorcycle to Abakaliki from Ishikom in the Ukelle area to do bank transaction.

“But since reportedly returning to Ndiakpurata Onunwakpu to collect premium motor spirit from his colleagues on duty, the soldier has not been seen again,” he said.

According to Sadiq, one of his informants was said to have briefed them that it was at Onunwakpu axis that the soldier got missing. He said the source briefed them how the soldier’s voice was heard in the area shouting that he was a soldier but the men believed to be Igbeagu warriors whisked him to an unknown destination.

“Both sides of the communities have been attacking each other, but we introduced bike to help us enroute all the crisis area, especially as the people have devised a means of opening public roads to stop us from entering inside the villages,” the soldier further explained. “When the wife of my officer called that she had not seen his husband, I ordered my men to go and comb all the area and bring him either dead or alive. I want him.”

Col. Sadiq further noted that the incident took place a fortnight ago but his men would not rest until the missing soldier was found, stressing that he had asked the community stakeholders to go and speak to their people.

He called those behind the act to present themselves as his office had all the necessary information concerning those behind the crime and would not rest until they were produced, even as he urged both communities to embrace peace for nothing thrives in an atmosphere of war.

He also denied allegations of torture, harassment and wilful destruction of the villagers’ property, saying his men operate within the rules of engagement.

12

The Oracle Today Wednesday November 7, 2018

FEATURES

Why Igbo should elevate New Yam Festival to international cultural fiesta, by Very Rev Fr. (Prof) BonaChristus Umeogu D •Chinese laud Igbo culture irector, Directorate of Igbo Village and Centre for African civilization (IVACAC), Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka, Very Rev Fr. Prof. Bonachristus Ucehnna Umeogu has called for a unifying celebration in Igbo land around New Yam (Iwa Ji) festival, saying this would internationalize the celebration thereby making it an event for cultural exchange between Ndigbo and the rest of the world.

To this effect, Rev Fr. Umeogu has enjoined South East governors to collaborate with the Ohanaeze Ndigbo and other Igbo renaissance groups to decide on a day for that celebration and institute events or competitions around the Iwa Ji festival for the five South-East States.

Prof. Umeogu spoke at a two-day New Yam Festival christened Iri Ji UNIZIK and Ezi-na-Ifite Igbo Heritage Conference, 2018, organised by Nnamdi Azikiwe University, (UNIZIK) Awka, Anambra State, and held at the Faculty Of Arts of the University.

Very Rev. Fr. Umeogu noted that if governments of the South Eastern States and the Igbo intelligentsia were to take up the challenge, the New Yam Festival would be taken to greater heights and measure up to similar cultural festivals in other parts of the world in terms of quality and popularity.

The Director, Igbo Village and Centre for African Civilisation, UNIZIK, who took the audience to through the etymology of yam and its families of dioscorea, described New Yam Festival as a very important festival in Igbo land.

Said he: “New Yam Festival is the king of all festivals and includes a lot of Igbo cultural things like thanksgiving, kolanut breaking, masquerades performance, theatrical and dance exhibitions, among others.

The fiery preacher and internally acclaimed philosopher, who is also the Spiritual Director, Communio Sanctorum Ministries Awka, however, debunked insinuations in some quarters that New Yam Festival is a pagan activity, arguing that people are no longer bound to give their thanksgiving to ‘ani or ‘Ifejioku’ but to the God of their religion.

He pointed out that yam in Igbo land is not only used for food, sacrifice and commerce but also to solve the health needs of mankind, such as blood pressure, regulation of blood sugar level, digestive system and flourish of certain vitamins in the body.

Acknowledging the medicinal value of yam, Fr. Umeogu called on Ndigbo to embrace the New Yam Festival as their own worthy contribution to world culture, maintaining that IVACAC was established to preserve the order of Igbo spirit amidst the progress of Igbo civilization as well as foster Igboness among the people that think and speak Igbo language and, by so doing, maintain Igbo culture.

His words: “IVACAC is concerned not only with fostering and preserving Igbo civilization in the world, but also using Igbo spirit to measure and maintain the

Are religion and culture dialectically opposed to each other? Or is there a nexus between the two? In the estimation of those who founded the Igbo Village and Centre for African civilization (IVACAC), there is a nexus. And this proposition is all the more interesting when it is realised that the chief proponent is no other than a Reverend Father, a priest in the Order of Melchizedek, Very Rev. Father (Prof.) BonaChristus Umeogu. From Awka, IZUNNA EZENWA who covered a conference on New Yam festival organised by IVACAC, reports…

•(L-R) Igwe Sunday Okafor of Opkuno; VC UNIZIK, Prof Joseph Ahaneku; Eze-Uzu Awka,Obi Gibson Nwosu; Prof (Mrs) Gladys Ahaneku, wife of the VC and Director, Directorate of Igbo Village and Centre for African civilization (IVACAC), Rev Fr. (Prof) BonaChristus Umeogu order and homogeneity of Igbo civilization amidst the changing and heterogeneity of the Igbo times.”

Leader of the Chinese representatives, who identified himself as Zjang Ifeanyichukwu said Igbo culture is second to none in the contemporary world, revealing that they attended the festival to get acquainted with Igbo heritage, culture and tradition.

“We are living in the age of globalization and we all have same challenges to maintain and uphold our economy, politics and culture. So, people like us believe and identify with Igbo people because they maintain their language and culture very well,” Zjang said.

“I am from China and the world is striving to become one in certain areas, especially Asian and African countries and

aside that, we all belong to the big family of human race. Every nation has its own unique and special culture but we share certain things in common in the spirit of global unity. I personally like Igbo people’s cultural practices because one’s culture is his identity and prosperity,” he stressed.

Speaking at the event, the Vice Chancellor of UNIZIK, Prof Joseph Ahaneku said New Yam Festival is aimed at deepening the Igbo consciousness against food insecurity since the university community is domiciled in Igbo land, describing it as part of Igbo culture that is sacred.

Prof Ahaneku also noted that the festival is a way of showing gratitude to God for a successful planting season before the yam can be consumed by humans,

saying that propagation of Igbo values and culture to be in line with African civilization is the mandate of the directorate of IVACAC, eulogising the Director of the centre, Rev Fr. Prof. Bonachristus Umeogu and his deputy, Prof. Okodo Ikechukwu for living up to expectations.

Said the VC: “What to my mind is of great significance is to identify the philosophy and core values inherent in a people’s culture and adapt the outward expression of these to contemporary times, to make the culture organic and enable the people to cope with the demands of the ever-changing world.”

Speaking on the second day of the conference, the Vice Chancellor’s wife, Prof. Gladys Ahaneku on expressed delight that Igbo language and culture has

13

The Oracle Today Wednesday November 7, 2018

FEATURES

•(L-R) Igwe Sunday Okafor of Opkuno; VC UNIZIK, Prof Joseph Ahaneku; Eze-Uzu Awka,Obi Gibson Nwosu and Director, Directorate of Igbo Village and Centre for African civilization (IVACAC), Rev Fr. (Prof) BonaChristus Umeogu

•Cross section of Chinese people at the event

begun to take its rightful stand within Igbo communities.

Prof. Ahaneku told the directorate of Igbo Village & Centre for African Civilization (IVACAC), to keep up its good work in ensuring that Igbo culture does not die.

While pointing out that cleanliness is an Igbo identity, he admonished Ndigbo on the need to further ensure that their surroundings are kept clean at all times.

In the major lecture, Prof. Cecilia Eme described unity as a trademark of Igbo society and Africa at large and called on Igbo communities to lend their support to the culture for it to stand the test of time.

She also thanked the authorities of UNIZIK for providing such a platform to elucidate on the richness of Igbo culture.

She advised Igbo intellectuals and the South East governors to make the New

Yam festival an interesting international festival.

Delivering a lecture entitled Igbo Language Amidst Civilization, the Way Forward, a lecturer in the Department of Igbo, African & Asian Studies, Dr. Chinweude Ugochukwu stated that the wind of globalization is currently blowing off some languages and lamented that globalization is on the verge of eroding the Igbo language.

He expressed sadness that if care was not taken, the Igbo language will wane, even as he encouraged the Igbo to strive and ensure that their language is retained.

In his talk on the significance of Iri Ji, Dr. Austin Ofodile described the New Yam Festival as a pedestal, through which communities sit and discuss some problems affecting them.

Others who attended the event included the traditional ruler of Okpuno, His Royal Majesty, Igwe Sunday Okafor; the traditional ruler of Awka, Obi Gibson Nwosu and their Dunukofia counterpart, Igwe Chukwuemeka Ilouno; His Royal Highness Igwe (Sir) Bennett Emeka of Umueri Kingdom and over 40 students’ traditional rulers, Ndi Nze na Ozo from various tertiary institutions in the South East.

Also in attendance were a Professor of General surgery, Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching hospital, Ile-Ife, Ezeji Elugwaraonu Augustine Agbakwuru, a College Librarian, Nwafor Orizu College of Education, Nsugbe, Chief Cliff Nwogwugwu, Executive President, African Export-Import Bank, Cairo Egypt, Prof.

B.O Oramah, Chief Ramas Okoye Azuzu, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Ahaneku, DVCs academics and administration, Profs Charles Esimone and Carol Umeobi, among others.

Agbakwuru, the OAUTH, Ile Ife, Professor of General Surgery described New Yam Festival as the best cultural practice of the Igbo nation, enthusing that IVACAC in UNIZIK is taking the bull by the horn in preserving Igbo culture and identity.

“It is a time of harvest and thanksgiving to God for leading us successfully through the plantain season. Nowadays, it’s not everybody that engages in farming; therefore, the New Yam Festival is symbolic in the sense that it represents general thanksgiving in Igbo land, despite what one does for a living.

“At OAU, we formed a group called ‘Umunna’, a gathering of all Igbo lecturers in the institution. There, we do New Yam Festival bi-annually. So, it is very significant because it will make the younger ones understand the fact that Ndigbo have a culture,” he stressed.

To the Acting College Librarian, Nwafor Orizu College of Education, Nsugbe, Ezeji Clifford Ngozichi Nwaogwugwu, Ezeji Nnanyelugo of Itu, Ezinihitte, Mbaise in Imo State, yam is a an important staple crop that deserves respect in Igbo land.

“It is important that Ndigbo remain steadfast in New Yam Festival celebrations because yam is the king of all staple foods. When I was a student (and even now that I am working), I cultivated yam, knowing its importance, especially now that the economy is bad,” he said.

“Anybody that prioritises farming will not find it difficult to train his children. It is unfortunate that children of nowadays do not want to toe the path of farming.

They all want manner to fall from heaven again, thinking that farming is meant for the uneducated and that is why we still import yam from the North for Igbo survival. So, I call on the authorities of other tertiary institutions in Nigeria to emulate this practice of New Yam Festival in their various institutions as demonstrated today by UNIZIK.” The conference ended in with a call on Ndigbo to do all within their power to promote Igbo language and culture in order to save it from going extinct as earlier predicted by the United Nations.

14

The Oracle Today Wednesday November 7, 2018

POLITICS

W

ithout doubt, the Rivers State chapter of the APC has with disconsolate propensity dug a very deep pit into which it has fallen, headlong. There are two distinct warring factions. One, led by the Minister of Transportation, Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi; and other led by Senator Magnus Ngei Abe, representing Rivers South East Senatorial District in the 8th Senate.

The crux of the matter is who will be the party’s governorship candidate in the 2019 gubernatorial election. Amaechi, a former two-term governor prefers his chum, Tonye Dele Cole, an architect and business mogul. The other group earnestly wants Abe, a lawyer, to be the standard-bearer of the APC in 2019.

Both groups are currently involved in a rash of legal pugilistic brawl that has hopped through the established hierarchy of courts: high court; Court of Appeal; and the Supreme Court. As it is, there are two state chairmen, each jockeying for public acceptability.

While other parties are drawing up strategies; fine-tuning their campaign manifestoes and sourcing for funds for nerve-racking campaigns, the River State APC is intertwined in a venomous wrestling bout, whose end will leave the party, utterly fatigued, and egos, thoroughly, bruised.

The depth of the no-holds-barred skirmish has provoked a barrage of discordant tunes from the two contending state chairmen of the two factions within the party. Their individual claim to who, between two of them is the legitimate occupant of the chairmanship position further tears the party down the middle.

Now, imagine this scenario! Pro-Abe’s Chairman of the Rivers State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Prince Peter Odike, has called on the National Chairman of the APC, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, to accept the Supreme Court judgement that nullified the congresses conducted by the pro-Amaechi’s faction of the party and forward the names of candidates that emerged through its direct primary to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

He stated that the Supreme Court judgement, of Monday, October 22, which nullified the ward, local government and state congresses held by the pro-Amaechi’s faction of the APC, on May 19, 20 and 21, respectively, to elect the delegates that voted for APC candidates for elective offices in 2019 general elections, has, consequently, nullified the selection of candidates chosen through indirect primary.

“I call on the national leadership of the APC to respect the judgment of the Supreme Court, recognize direct primary held under my leadership as the chairman of the party in Rivers State and forward the names of all the candidates that emerged through direct primary to INEC.” Odike who spoke during an interview in an FM radio station, in Port Harcourt, weekend, appealed to members of the APC in the state to unite and forge a common and formidable front so, that the APC can do well in the 2019 general elections.

“The Supreme Court judgement has further strengthened the faith of the common man on the judiciary. It is now the duty and responsibility of the national leadership of our great party to do what is right, just and proper.”

Reacting to a statement made by Ojukaiye Flag-Amachree, he insisted that he remains the authentic chairman of the Rivers State APC, Odike said: “That is how they disrespect court orders and do what they like.”

Flag-Amachree had stated after the Supreme Court judgement, on Monday, October 22, that he had earlier secured a perpetual injunction from a high court, in Abuja, restraining the national leadership of the party from dissolving the state executive under his leadership which was elected by delegates selected through the May 19 and 20, ward and local government congresses, respectively.

Odike emphasised: “On the strength of judgments of the Rivers State High Court, of Wednesday, October 10, and the Supreme Court judgement of, Monday, October 22, Flag-Amachree is not representing anyone, any longer. The Supreme Court, the highest court in Nigeria has spoken and that is enough.”

The Supreme Court, on Monday, October 22, set-aside an interim order of the Court of Appeal in Port Harcourt, which permitted the APC, to conduct its Ward, local government and state congresses on May 19, 20 and 21, respectively, in Rivers State.

The apex court in a lead judgement delivered

by Justice by Centus Nweze faulted the appellate court for issuing an order for a stay of execution of an order of a Rivers State high court that had earlier barred the APC from going ahead with its planned congresses, pending the

Rivers 2019: How did the APC get itself entangled in this political imbroglio?

From Port Harcourt, NATH OMAME Jr writes that as pro-Abe’s APC Chairman, Odike, asks Oshiomhole to respect Supreme Court judgment and send the list of candidates from Rivers direct primary to INEC determination of the substantive suit before it.

The Supreme Court held that the appellate court should not have vacated the injunctive order given by the Rivers state high court which barred the APC from conducting the ward, local and state congresses, on May 19, 20 and 21, respectively.

Justice Nweze pointed out that by refusing to abide by judicial precedents already set by the Supreme Court, the action of the Court of Appeal in settling aside the restraining order of the Rivers State High Court amounted to a “sacrilegious exercise of judicial discretion”, and consequently, committed an act of “gross insurbodination”.

The Supreme Court reasoned: “It is a very serious matter for any one to flout a positive order of a court and still approach the court for remedy. It is unfortunate and wrongful for the Court of Appeal to have entertained a party in contempt of a valid court order to the extent of granting judicial favour by way of staying of execution of an injunctive order when the party at the center of the dispute was in gross contempt of court”, Justice Nweze stated: “The respondent acted in the most impudent manner. The simple truth, therefore, is that when the Respondent (APC) applied for stay of execution, it was in gross abuse of a court order”.

Meanwhile, Flag-Amachree, has continued to insist that he remains the chairman of the APC in Rivers State, stressing that he had earlier secured a perpetual injunction from an Abuja high court, restraining the national leadership of the party from tempering with the mandate of the delegates who were elected on May19 and 21, respectively; and which elected him at about 6.30 am, on October 21.

Instructively, it is the ward and local government congresses of May 19 and 20, including the state congress of May 21, through which he (Flag-Amachree) was elected that have been nullified by a Rivers State High Court, on Wednesday, October 10, and the Supreme Court, on Monday, October 22.

While still performing official functions as the chairman of the APC in Rivers State, FlagAmachree, on Tuesday, October 23, declared, at Akuku-Toru Local government Area, when he received a chieftain of the Peoples’Democratic Party (PDP), Ibini Nwokoma, who defected with his supporters that top officials in the PDP state government are discussing with him to perfect their defection to the APC. Flag-Amachree stated; “About 160 ward chairmen are talking with me; about 2, 000 members of the PDP are talking with me; local government chairmen are talking with me; some of his commissioners are also talking with me; even those whom Governor Nyesom Wike considers his close political associates are also talking with me; they say they are tired of his government.’”

So, how did the Rivers State chapter of the APC get itself pummeled into this odious imbroglio that is tethering on the verge of denying it the constitutional right of an actively recognised political party in fielding candidates for the governorship, Senatorial, House of Representatives and state Assemblies, in the 2019 general elections?

Ego, pride, vengeance and a deep-seated subterranean guile to mislead and deny an ethnic group, or an erstwhile political associate, the opportunity to aspire in getting elected as the governor of Rivers State is the fountain source of the long-running fratricidal political skirmish now roiling the APC in Rivers State.

Some months to the 2015 general elections, then-Governor Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, called

•Ameachi a meeting of APC stakeholders at government house, Port Harcourt, and informed them that the Rivers South East will produce his successor.

He also invited Ogoni stakeholders, including traditional rulers to government house and assured them that he will give the Ogonis an opportunity to produce his successor. Based on Amaechi’s assurances, most political watchers thought Senator Magnus Ngei Abe, his close friend and associate with whom he has weathered many political storms, stood, unarguably, in a pole position. Abe is an Ogoni.

Surprisingly, a few weeks to when parties were expected to conduct their primary to choose candidates for elective positions, Amaechi backtracked. He called another stakeholders meeting, at government house, Port Harcourt, and announced that stakeholders had unanimously adopted Dr. Dakuku Peterside, as the party’s candidate for the 2015 gubernatorial election.

Abe, who was at the meeting was shocked. He stood up, shook Peterside’s hand, and drove out of government house. Peterside, after receiving congratulatory greetings from those present at the meeting, left for Church to meet his pastor for prayers. He left Church for Abe’s home to seek his support, which Abe assured him. He left Abe’s residence at about 8.pm.

Abe, at campaign rallies referred to Dakuku as “my brother and friend” and publicly campaigned for Dakuku. When Amaechi was accosted by Ogoni stakeholders why he reneged on his pledge to support an Ogoni indigene for the governorship, he told them that they didn’t show enough hunger, aspiration and an

unhinged determination for the office of governor.

Perhaps, it was after that painful experience that Senator Abe decided to set up his structures and rave up the engine of his governorship ambition rather early. Amaechi was taken aback at Abe’s ground work and the political mileage that he had covered within a short time.

The alibi that the Ogonis did not show enough desire for the governorship had been furiously eclipsed by Abe’s studious and well-oiled groundwork in the 319 wards and 23 local government areas in the state. Some stakeholders in the APC say that the grit, determination and courage Abe displayed during the series of court-ordered legislative re-runs endeared him to many members of the party.

Before Amaechi, the minister of transportation realised, about 70 per cent of politicians in the APC who held elective positions as well as those he gave political appointments in his two terms of eight years as governor of Rivers State were working, assiduously, for Senator Abe’s emergence as the governorship candidate of the APC in Rivers State for the 2019 general elections.

Taken aback, Amaechi drove to Senator Abe’s residence in Abuja. He has asked Abe’s elder brother, to be at the meeting. Upon his arrival at Abe’s home, he asked the Senator representing Rivers South East, to call his wife to join them for the meeting. Amaechi began by telling them how far he has supported Abe’s political career.

Then, he dropped the bombshell: he does not

15

The Oracle Today Wednesday November 7, 2018

POLITICS

•Senator Magnus Abe want Abe to hanker for the governorship candidature of the APC because he will not support him. He informed them that he will not be supporting Dakuku Peterside, either. This time, that is in 2019, he will be putting forward Architect Tonye Dele Cole, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Sahara Energy, an indigenous oil and gas company.

Abe was said to have told Amaechi to allow all members of the APC who are interested in the governorship to test their popularity on the field and choose the most popular candidate to be the party’s standard-bearer for the 2019 gubernatorial election.

Amaechi growled. His mien changed. He furrowed his brow, warning Abe not to dare him.

He stood up to leave, but Abe persisted, pleading with him to allow a level-playing ground for all members of the party who desire to govern the state on the platform of the APC. The countenance of the minister of transportation as he left Abe’s residence in Abuja, that night, has continued to define the rift between the two former chums and political allies essentially during the turbulent twilight of former President Goodluck Jonathan’s PDP-led administration when Amaechi swarm precariously in the stormy waters of a foreboding grudge impeachment, in Port Harcourt, intermingled with an adversarial federal government, in Abuja.

Unrelenting, Abe continued to reach out to stakeholders in the party, whom he believed had the political clout and acceptability in their wards and local governments as well as among other members of the APC to erect a human ladder through which he can climb to attain his governorship ambition in 2019.

To counter Senator Abe’s growing clout among members of the party, Amaechi, in August 2017, decided to replace leaders of the APC in some local government areas. Those affected include Chief Allwell Onyesoh, in Etche; Elder Chidi Wihoka, of Ikwerre local government; Chief Tony Okocha, of Obio-Akpor local government; Worgu Boms, of Port Harcourt local government; among others.

Amaechi’s resolve to thwart Abe’s governorship ambition was responsible for the fiasco of the ward, local government and state congresses in August 2017. Voting materials that would have been used for the botched congresses were abandoned in Abuja. Abe’s supporters protested vehemently and staged a protest march to Novotel Hotel, along Ken Saro-Wiwa Road, former Stadium Road, in Elekahia, in Port Harcourt, where Amaechi and the party officials from Abuja who were delegated to conduct the congresses were lodged.

The Police were called in by the frightened officials. Amaechi who lodged them in the hotel was said to have left the hotel as early as 7.am, for another engagement at Eleme, outside Port Harcourt, the state capital. A deputy commissioner of Police was sent from the Police Command to broker peace. The officials from the

APC headquarters in Abuja and some leaders of Abe’s group of the APC were led to the headquarters of the Rivers State Police Command were a truce was mutually agreed.

Unimpressed by the pandemonium that transpired at the entrance of the hotel that spilled onto the Ken Saro-Wiwa Road, Governor Nyesom Wike revoked the Certificate of Occupancy (C-of-O) of Novotel Hotel. The governor was said to have rescinded the revocation after the management of the hotel had made an undertaking that such a din would not occur, again.

That is probably why Amaechi operates from the Intel Camp, a private port services company owned by Atiku Abubakar, the presidential candidate of the PDP, along the Eastern by-pass, sandwiched by the Ogunabali area and Moscow Road, in Port Harcourt. Amaechi marshalled his foot soldiers during the disputed ward, local government and state congresses from this fortress.

On the heels of the botched congresses of August 2017, Amaechi re-stratergised for the ward, local government and state congresses earlier scheduled for May 5, 12 and 19. As it happened in August 2017, aspirants who paid the statutory levy to enable them purchase forms to participate in the congresses were denied the forms.

Armed with their tellers, they moved in droves, on Friday, May 4, to the then-APC state secretariat at Forces Avenue, GRA Phase 1, Port Harcourt. The aspirants were over 4, 000 APC members. Each aspirant upon presentation of his or her bank teller, was to have been given a form to be filled with the signatures of two guarantors from the aspirant’s ward; form is to be returned to the secretariat; before such aspirant could be said to have duly satisfied the constitutional provisions of the party to be eligible to contest for the position of a delegate.

Worried that Abe’s supporters might emerged victorious as delegates, no forms were issued to aspirants; no official was at the state secretariat to attend to prospective aspirants who had paid for the forms. Disappointment turned to frustration, and tempers boiled over. Police were called in; shots were fired; tear gas cannisters were fired into the crowd.

The non-availability of forms for prospective aspirants was the first ominous sign that the ward, local government and state congresses were either designed to fail or destined to provoke a crisis. For instance, it takes about four hours to get to some riverine communities in Rivers State. So, getting the signatures of guarantors at their ward and making another four hours journey back to Port Harcourt to submit the forms portends a horrendous scenario.

While the melee at the APC state secretariat lasted, lawyers to 23 prospective aspirants had filed a suit at a Rivers State High Court, seeking to stop the proposed congresses because after taking their monies, the party refused to give them the forms they paid for; thereby, de-

nying them their rights to freely participate in the congresses. They prayed the court to stop the congresses because the process was faulty from the beginning.

At about 1.pm, on Saturday, May 5, on the day of the ward congress, Josiah Dogo, the leader of the team that was sent from the APC headquarters, in Abuja, made a paid announcement on radio, asking all those who made payments at designated banks and have tellers to that effect to go to their wards an make themselves available for the context upon presentation of their tellers.

What this means is that the rules for the congresses had been changed in the middle of the contest. And there were bound to be widespread suspicion and protest. Of course, there might have been subterranean moves by certain power centres to hijack and dominate the congresses, but this singular public denial of the rights of aspirants from full participation according to the laid down rules of the party was when the Rivers State APC began digging the ignoble pit that it has fallen into?

Ostensibly to pave way for the in-coming state executive, then-State Chairman of the APC in Rivers State, Chief Davis Ibiamu-Ikanya, resigned his position. He was said to have left for England to get treatment for his eyes. His deputy, Prince Peter Odike, did not resign.

Even after the party was served of the suit, on Friday, May 4, on the eve of the botched, Saturday, May 5, ward congress, the APC, still went ahead to conduct the ward congress. The party was actually preparing to hold the local government congress, on Saturday, May 12. But word filtered that Justice Chiwendu Nworgu, of the Rivers State High Court, would be sitting to hear the case, on Friday, May 11. So, the APC mobilised it’s members to block the entrance of the court to prevent the judge from accessing the court to perform his official duties.

In the height of the crisis in the twilight of his second tenure, Amaechi shut down the courts in Rivers State for 22 months. Judges, judiciary workers, litigants, those awaiting trial, those whose trials had begun, lawyers, prison officials, Journalists and the public were shut out of the court. Painfully, those who who could have have been bailed remained locked in cells. Police cells were cramped with suspects.

The attempt to close down the courts by a party in opposition in the state, roiled PDP members who stormed the court to break the chains already fastened around the gates and chased away APC members who had gathered around the premises of the high court.

A few hours after the courts were opened, Justice Nworgu drove in and presided over the matter filed by the 23 aggrieved APC members who complained that the party had, unjustly, denied them the opportunity to participate in the ward congress because they were not given the form that they paid for.

It was on this day, Friday, May 11, that Justice Nworgu, granted the 24 aggrieved APC members a injunctive order, restraining the APC from conducting further congresses. He also set aside the outcome of the Saturday, May 5, ward congress because it was conducted against the rules of the party.

Instructively, Justice Nworgu, asked the APC to maintain the status quo as at May 11. It is this order that Prince Odike has clinched unto while insisting that he remains the authentic chairman of the party, the former chairman, Chief Ibiamu-Ikanya, having properly resigned from his position before May 11.

The APC approached the Court of Appeal in Port Harcourt to set aside the restraining order of the Rivers State High Court which was granted and went ahead to conduct fresh ward, local government and state congresses, on May 19, 20 and 21, respectively.

On October 10, Justice Nworgu, in his judgement, set aside the ward, local government and state congresses. He also asserted that the outcome of the APC governorship primary held with the participation of the delegates that emerged from the said ward, local government and state congresses was a nullity because in the eyes of the law, no APC congresses held in Rivers State.

Upon the setting aside of the restraining order granted by the Rivers State High Court by the Court of Appeal, consequent upon the holding of the May 19, 20 and 21 ward, local government and state congresses by the APC, the 23 aggrieved APC members took the matter to the Supreme Court which delivered a stinging judgement, on Monday, October 22. The Supreme Court set aside the order of the Court of Appeal which permitted the congresses to hold an affirmed the judgment of the lower court.

The position of Supreme Court is the same with that of the Rivers State High Court. By virtue of the Supreme Court judgement, the con-

gresses of May 19, 20 and 21, are a nullity. And as such, the Ojukaiye Flag-Amachree led APC state executive is non-existent in the eyes of the law. The emergence of Tonye Dele Cole as the APC candidate in Rivers State will also suffer the same faith because he was elected by delegates that are not recognised by the apex court in Nigeria.

But the wheel of justice grinds, slowly, intertwined with the propensity of litigants to test the law and even stretch the ambits and the corpus of the Nigerian Jurisprudence. The Rivers State APC has appealed the judgment of the Rivers State High Court. The matter was pending in the Court of Appeal, before the Supreme Court gave it’s judgment, on Monday, October 22, on the same matter, but on the technical issue of a restraining order granted by the lower court.

So, what does the APC want the Court of Appeal to do? The party wants the Court of Appeal to set aside the judgment of the lower court and give legality to the ward, local government and state congresses it held. The party is also seeking a consequential order that it’s governorship candidate, Tonye Cole, chosen by the delegate that emerged from the disputed May 19, 20 and 21 congresses, was properly elected.

The Embattled State Chairman, FlagAmachree, has ask to be joined in the case because the nullification of the said congresses also nullifies his position as chairman. The APC and it’s 23 aggrieved members appeared before the Court of Appeal, on Thursday, October 25. The court adjourned till October 31, to enable all parties to file their written addresses; to create a window for Flag-Amachree to join the matter; to enable the 23 aggrieved members to present a Certified True Copy (CTC) of the Supreme Court judgement, delivered, on Monday, October 22.

Being an election matter, time is of the essence. Judgement of the Court of Appeal is expected to be delivered few days after the October 31, hearing. Which ever way it goes, the matter will, most likely, terminate at the Supreme Court. The APC will be hoping that the Supreme Court will give a different judgement in a space of three or four weeks in a matter with similar facts, on the point of law.

Clearly, there are two factions in the Rivers State chapter of the APC. A pro-Amaechi group and the pro-Abe’s faction. For the records, the May 19, 20, and 21, ward, local government and state congresses that were nullified were conducted by the pro-Amaechi’s faction. So far, the pro-Abe’s group of which the 23 aggrieved APC members are part of the main won at the Rivers State High Court and at the Supreme Court.

The victory the pro-Amaechi’s faction got at the Court of Appeal was, thoroughly, vilified by the Supreme Court as tantamount to “judicial sacrilege,” and lambasted the Court of Appeal for “committing an act of gross insubordination” for jettisoning copious judicial precedents of the apex court that debars a court from “granting judicial favour’’ to a litigant or party that “has disregarded an order of a court of competent jurisdiction.”

Should the pro-Abe’s group win at the Court of Appeal or win at the Supreme Court, for that matter, it would mean that the Rivers State APC would not field candidates for the governorship, National and State Assemblies elections in 2019. And should this happen, what would the national leadership of the APC do, considering the fact that the party didn’t meet the requirements for the submission of candidates for elective positions as stipulated by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC)?

Should the pro-Abe’s group win, again, at the Supreme Court, it would mean that Amaechi, the director-general of President Mohammadu Buhari’s campaign would not produce an elective or elected APC candidate in 2019. And should that be the case, how would this affect his position in Buhari’s campaign?

Should the pro-Abe’s faction win, again, at the Supreme Court how would Buhari and Oshiomhole react? Sadly, Buhari who by virtue of his position as president and the indisputable leader of the party has failed, so woefully, to be presidential; and, Oshiomhole, as the national chairman of the APC has, also, failed woefully, to offer effective leadership to the party and it’s warring members.

While the Rivers State APC is enmeshed in a self-inflicted torment, the PDP in the state is coasting, unhindered, in preparation for the 2019 general elections. Wouldn’t it have been much more reasonable, pragmatic and purposeful, if all the monies expended in conducting the now legally disputed congresses and primaries for various elective positions were properly harnessed and channeled towards the electioneering campaign for 2019?

16

The Oracle Today Wednesday November 7, 2018

POLITICS

Not yet over for Sharibu Hope rises for Leah Sharibu, the Christian girl kidnapped and kept by Boko Haram for months now, as CitizenGo files a case in EOWAS Court against President Buhari’s “failure to act”. IRETO TEMOFEH reports...

C

itizenGO, an international organization of people that seek to defend life, the family and fundamental rights worldwide, has taken the government of President Muhammadu Buhari to court for failing to act to free Leah Sharibu from the captivity of the Boko Haram terrorist group.

In an email to The Oracle Today reporter on October 27, 2018 announcing the decision to sue the federal government of Nigeria, Ann Kioko, the head of the CitizenGo team said: “Last week I wrote to you informing you of our next move in a bid to secure young Leah Sharibu, 15, who has been in Boko Haram captivity for 251 days now.

“We took a step of suing the Federal Government of Nigeria at the ECOWAS community court for their failure to act on Leah’s plea to be released.”

On the night of 14–15 April 2014, 276 female students were kidnapped from the Government Secondary School in the town of Chibok in Borno state of Nigeria. Responsibility for the kidnappings was claimed by Boko Haram, an Islamic extremist terrorist organization based in northeastern Nigeria. 57 of the schoolgirls managed to escape over the next few months. Barely four years later, another group of 110 female students, this time from a government secondary school in Dapchi, Yobe state, were kidnapped by Boko Haram.

Though the federal government of Nigeria secured the release of 105 of the kidnapped Chibok girls, President Muhammadu Buhari of Nigeria has been widely criticized for failing to secure the release of the remaining 113 Chibok girls that were kidnapped and also for failing to secure the release of the last kidnapped Dapchi school girl, Leah Sharibu.

According to audio recordings released since her abduction on February 19, 2018 by Boko Haram, Leah Sharibu has been heard pleading with the federal government of Nigeria to free her from Boko Haram captivity.

The government of President Muhammadu Buhari has promised to ensure that Sharibu is released but has so far failed to secure her

•Leah Sharibu release.

Kioko added that the case against the federal government of Nigeria for allegedly failing to act to secure the young Christian girl’s freedom was being handled by a competent team of lawyers at the ECOWAS Court.

“As I write to you this it is 4:44am here, I have just finished packing and ready to travel back to Kenya after making sure that the case is well grounded and being handled by a competent team.

“We will keep you posted about this case

and of course about our next move on this particular matter. CitizenGO will exhaust all avenues until we attain a victory not only on securing Leah’s freedom but also to end Christian Persecution in Nigeria.”

She revealed that CitizenGo has also been in contact with the parents of Leah Sharibu.

“I need to also let you know that I have been in constant communication with the parents of Leah Sharibu, they are keeping strong and still hopeful to see their daughter alive.”

Kioko also urged people everywhere to sign the petition about Leah Sharibu on the website of CitizenGo. “If you have not signed this important petition about Leah Sharibu and persecuted Christians in Nigeria kindly sign.”

Leah Sharibu was one of the 110 pupils of a government owned secondary school in Dapchi, Yobe State, abducted by Boko Haram insurgents on February 19, 2018.

It was the repeat of a similar abduction of close to 300 pupils of another secondary school in Chibok, Borno State by the same sect on April 14, 2014. About 104 of the abducted Dapchi girls were later released by the insurgents after some back-channel negotiations between the sect and the Federal Government.

While five of the abducted girls were said to have died in the cause of the abduction, Leah became the only one held back by the sect purportedly because she refused to renounce her faith as a Christian and embrace Islam.

Efforts made since then to secure her release have yielded no result. Fears over her safety were heightened further with the recent decision of the Boko Haram terror group to execute Hauwa, one of the Red Cross aid workers in its captivity.

Boko Haram, however, announced that rather than execute Leah, she would be turned into a slave. On Boko Haram’s threat to keep her daughter as a slave for life, Mrs. Rebecca Sharibu, mother of Leah Sharibu said: “I am calling on the Federal Government not to relent in their efforts and promise to secure the release of my daughter and any other person in the hands of Boko Haram.

“At least they have told us that Leah is still alive, so we are still hopeful. We can’t lose hope.

I am sure God will answer our prayers by touching their hearts to release my daughter.”

Abia 2019: Apprehension over APC’s chances Cont’d on page 9 the party that has been dissolved, the matter has been liquidated, there has been a new congress, a new leadership with new members is in place. This is an exercise that is to further the proof of bias on the side of the judge,” Nwankpa was quoted as saying, adding, “I want to advise our party members to disregard the irresponsible pronouncement, they should not panic, already we have appealed and our appeal still stands.”

At a stakeholders meeting on September 12, to decide on the method to be adopted for the primaries, the Ndukwe-led faction said they have served Nwankpa forms 48 and 49 (contempt of court charges) for continuing to parade himself as the Abia APC chairman despite a subsisting court order.

Both factions finally settled for the direct primary system.

Results of the parallel governorship primaries showed that Dr. Ndukwe-led faction produced High Chief Ikechi Emenike as its governorship candidate while Dr Sampson Uche Ogah emerged as the governorship candidate of the Nwankpa group.

The Chief Returning Officer, Prof. Okezie Abarikwu, who conducted the governorship primary for the Ndukwe-led faction, announced that Emenike polled a total of 274,133 votes to defeat six other contenders.

Also, the Election Committee Chairman, David Iyoha, who conducted the governorship primary for the Nwankpa- led faction announced that Ogah polled won 86, 875 to win the contest.

Interestingly, ballot papers of the factions contained the names of all the governorship aspirants which included a former Deputy Governor, Dr. Chris Akomas, a former Speaker of Abia State House of Assembly, Martins Azubuike, Barr. Friday Nwosu, a diplomat, Dr. Okey Emuchay and a former Commissioner for Lands, Prince Paul Ikonne.

Also both factions affirmed Muhammadu Buhari as APC’s presidential candidate, but posted different figures. While the Ndukweled faction said the President polled 272,259 votes, the Nwankpa-led group said Buhari got 455, 656 votes.

As at the conclusion of the congresses and primaries, the battle for the authentic leadership of the party was still in court. And the parties returned to court on October 2, 2018.

Surprisingly, the case file was missing.

Quickly, Ndukwe, his Secretary, Chidi Avaja and one of the plaintiffs, Egnr. Chris Okpechi, fired a strongly worded petition to the Abia State Judicial Service Commission to investigate the disappearance of the case file.

In the petition dated October 10, 2018, and titled: “A cry for justice…” the petitioners alleged that the respondents procured the services of two court registrars, in their desperate move to find “a pliant judge,” to cart away the missing file, “We write to strongly protest the unilateral, fraudulent removal of the case file of our Suit: HIN/4/2018 before His Lordship, Hon Justice C.U.Okoroafor, without due notification, consent and approval of the presiding judge. “The illegal action, we humbly submit, is tantamount to criminal obstruction of jus-

tice and a muzzling or ridiculing of the judiciary with the aim of perverting the course of justice in our suit,” the petition read in part.

After dispatching their petition to several quarters, the Ndukwe-led group returned to court on October 24, 2018, the day the judge was billed to hear the motion filed by Nwankpa and other respondents seeking to transfer the case to another court, and another motion filed by the plaintiffs seeking to nullify every action taken by Nwankpa after the court had issued an order sacking him from office.

The group arrived the court that fateful day, looking forward to legal fireworks in court.

Suddenly, according to witnesses, a bus-load of hefty, arms-wielding thugs, some masked, were brought to the court premises. The bus driver was said to have made several trips, bringing in more thugs to saturate the court premises.

Witnesses said some of the hoodlums, positioned along the road leading to the court, allegedly intercepted people from the Ndukwe-led faction, beat up and inflicted matchet wounds on them.

Sources said there was pandemonium when the hoodlums took over the entire court premises, blocked the two entries into the court and screened people entering the court room to ensure that only APC members belonging to the Nwankpa faction were allowed into the court.

According to the witnesses, the state Publicity Secretary of the Ndukwe-led faction, Engr Mike Ozoemana, was beaten black and blue and his Toyota 4- Runner jeep seized

by men who claimed they were from the State Anti-Robbery Squad, said to have been called by those that brought the thugs.

The presiding judge, Justice Collinton Okoroafor, was forced to stay away from the court as pandemonium reigned supreme, thereby scuttling the hearing of two motions.

While Ndukwe has pointedly accused Nwankpa of sponsoring the thugs, Nwankpa has denied any involvement, saying he has never been identified with thuggery in his political career.

Currently, there is palpable fear that the experience of APC in Rivers State may be the fate of Abia APC, meaning that if the court nullifies the congresses and primaries conducted by the Nwankpa-led faction, it would affect the party’s candidates negatively.

But a source in the Ogah camp explained that the direct primary was conducted by the national secretariat, not by the factions struggling for power in the state and that whatever would be the outcome of the legal tango, the candidacy of Ogah and those of others contesting National and State House of Assembly will stand.

However, many APC faithful in Abia are worried that the party is torn by war of attrition at a period they should be working together to deliver the state to their party, although several members have dismissed suit filed by the Ndukwe-led faction as a storm in a tea cup.

However, Analysts believe that time has come for the warring parties to resolve their differences if they want to make any impact in the 2019 general elections.

BU$IN£SS

17

The Oracle Today Wednesday November 7, 2018

•Energy •Finance

•Stock

•Insurance

•Aviation

•e-Platform

•Tourism

Energy Gas economy: Investors demand market liberalization Fortunes alter in

NNPC’s crude lifting contracts P20 e-Platform

MDXI launches W/Africa’s carrier-neutral IX with Asteroid P22

Travel

Cont’d from page 1

By SOPURUCHI ONWUKA

CBN EXCHANGE RATES OCTOBER 19TH, 2018 Currency

Buying(NGN)

Central (NGN) Selling(NGN)

US DOLLAR 305.5 POUNDS STERLING 398.0971 EURO 350.378 SWISS FRANC 306.7577 YEN 2.7158 CFA 0.5167 WAUA 424.9129 YUAN/RENMINBI 44.0758 RIYAL 81.4189 S/A RAND 21.288

306 398.7486 350.9514 307.2598 2.7202 0.5267 425.6084 44.1484 81.5522 21.3229

306.5 399.4002 351.5249 307.7618 2.7247 0.5367 426.3038 44.221 81.6854 21.3577

ate strategy to guarantee adequate gas flow needed to support parallel programmes in the domestic productivity growthy. Yet the sale of gas under the mandatory supply arrangement is exclusively mediated by the Gas Aggregation Company of Nigeria (GACN) which hardly meets cash return expectation of commercial investors.

The Oracle reports that government’s gas-to-power programme which provides over 70 percent of the total domestic market demand is troubled with irresolvable debt disputes that leave gas investors in huge commercial losses in a sector where the regulators watch helplessly.

Under the gas-to-power programme, midstream gas players supply huge volumes of fuel gas to thermal power generation companies that ship produced electricity through the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) to the Nigerian Bulk Electricity Trading Company (NBET) and onto the distribution companies which retail to consumers.

Under the arrangement, cash revenue generated by the distribution companies is used to settle all supply invoices back to the upstream end of the power industry chain. But a plague of operational inefficiency manifesting in billing disputes, poor revenue collection, distribution losses and poor accounting practices mean that the distribution

companies cannot meet payment obligations for delivered electricity invoices.

Thus, the power sector which takes over 70 percent of all gas delivery to the domestic market cannot pay for its supplies, leading to huge debt overhang the defrayment of which currently form the subject of another round of disputes between the government and downstream power sector players.

Former Group Executive Director in charge of Gas and Power at the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), Dr. David Ige, told The Oracle Today that debt overhang in the gas-to-power sector currently

P26

Insurance

PenCom unveils guidelines on voluntary contributions under CPS

P28 Equity & Capital Market

exceeds the trillion Naira mark.

And there is no immediate hope in the system to address the problem.

Thus, the myriad of issues that collectively for the domestic market realties leave investors in the thin gap between commercial opportunities and policy compliance; and the government’s aspirations for the gas sector cannot be realized without the full participation of the cautious investors.

How to perfect the operating environment by creating a stable and clear fiscal climate for investments, developing critical upstream and downstream production and distribution infrastructure respectively,

To stake investors’ funds in these ventures, the companies and trade groups called for creation of robust internal demand and commercial liberalization of Nigeria’s gas market to enable it to drive the economy along with global trends in energy transition.

Most of the investors who play in the upstream, midstream and downstream petroleum industry insist that government must define the fiscal and commercial terms for gas investments to provide clearer climate for investment decisions.

The players gathered under different trade groups including the Nigerian Gas Association, and Oil Producers Trade Section (OPTS) of the organized private sector specifically want issues surrounding legal, regulatory, commercial and fiscal frameworks to be efficiently worked out and provide adequate market incentives for fund deployment.

Since recognition of distinct value of natural gas, efforts have been consistent at ending routine flaring of gas that is produced in association with oil. The objective is not just to address environmental pollution concerns but also to harness additional revenue for the state and fire up industrialization through abun-

dant supply of cleaner, cheaper, more efficient fuel option.

The different sections of the industry require separate policy, fiscal and regulatory arrangements that suite the peculiarity of their operations, and government has followed developments in the sector with unending policy evolution. Since 1980s, these policies have sought to address environmental, revenue and domestic fuel issues by flaunting commercial incentives to inject lucre in gas investments.

From Associated Gas Fiscal Arrangements (AGFA), to Non-Associated Gas Fiscal Reforms Act (NAGFRA), gas flare-down policy directives, Nigerian Gas Masterplan, Gas Revolution and current revised National Gas Policy, commercial investors and government’s policy drivers remain polarised over the right fiscal and commercial frameworks that best address bankability of gas projects.

In the upstream, producers vehemently dispute government’s proposal for generating separate commercial terms for gas that is different from that of oil, especially when both are accommodated in single production sharing contract which forms the basis for exploration spending.

Besides, the upstream players are under mandatory policy directive to meet domestic gas supply obligations as part of the deliber-

Funding, key to unlocking Nigeria’s hotel pipeline – Expert

Seplat exonerates self from $114m court judgement against Chairman P30 Money Market

Nigeria has serious revenue problem –Budget Office

Cont’d on Page 19

P31

Stock Market Highlights As At 19th october, 2018

Summary

ASI DEALS VOLUME VALUE EQUITY CAP BOND CAP ETF CAP S/N HMARKINS FIDELITYBK ACCESS FCMB ZENITHBANK

32,841.69 2,385.00 212,649,910.00 N1,456,551,436.78 N11,989,752,856,961.66 N10,120,023,541,998.10 N0.00

Coy (By Volume)

Value(N)

91,217,435 N25,540,899.04 14,533,143 N27,338,525.62 10,486,456 N84,133,838.20 9,251,849 N14,466,841.16 8,545,234 N194,121,634.20

5 Top Gainers

Symbols Last Close DANGCEM N206 ACCESS N7.8 GUINNESS N79 UNILEVER N43.5 ZENITHBANK N22.55

Current Change %Change N210 1.94% N8.3 0.5 6.41% N79.5 0.5 0.63% N43.9 0.4 0.92% N22.9 0.35 1.55%

Five Tope Losers Symbols NESTLE FO CAP GLAXOSMITH

Last Close Current Change %Change N1400 N1370 -30 -2.14% N22.2 N20.15 -2.05 -9.23% N31 N30.05 -0.95 -3.06% N13.5 N12.7 -0.8 -5.93%

18

The Oracle Today Wednesday November 7, 2018

BUSINESS

Nigeria, others risk new debt crisis under Chinese loans – AfDB

By VICTOR NZE

T

HE African Development Bank (AfDB) has expressed worry that China’s economic relationship with Africa suggests that it mainly targets its natural resources rather than investment and transformation in African countries.

This was disclosed at the weekend by the Senior Director, AfDB Nigeria, Mr. Ebrima Faal, at the African Economic Merit Awards (AEMA) World Plaque and Award Nominees Unveiling in Abuja.

Faal who was represented by the Regional Procurement Coordinator, (AfDB), Mr. Baba Imoru Abdulai, highlighted this as one of the key areas of concerns in china’s economic relationship with Africa as he noted that lending instead of investment dominates China’s relationship with Africa, which he stressed may soon create a new debt crisis, that will enable Asian giant access Africa’s resources.

The senior director expressed concern over the growing sized of debt owed China’s global changing financial architecture.

“Data from the China –Africa Research Centre show that between 2000 to 2015, total Chinese loans to African governments was $94.4 billion with Angola and Ethiopia as the two highest beneficiaries. Besides the size of the loans, there have also been concerns that Chinese offer more loans in order to access natural resources.

“At the September 2018 FOFAC Summit, China pledged US$60 bil-

lion in loans, aid and investment. This amount was the same as that pledged in 2015, which was three times the figure announced in 2012. The latest financing brought the total support to Africa countries to US$120 billion in three years.

“Currently, China’s support to Africa’s development through the AfDB is being channeled through Africa Growing Together Fund (AGTF). As the implementation of the AGTF accelerates, AfDB could explore the possible increase of resources to the Fund.”

Faal further revealed that Africa has lost her local companies to Chinese firms “with the freedom to operate in all sectors and with access to capital and better technology, the Chinese firm have gained market power and dominance in recent times. As such, many African owned firms are forced to drop out of the market due to competition. This has forced several African firms to close down.”

Earlier, President/Founder of AEMA, Mr. McEva Temofe, said the essence of the award is to promote innovative ideas for entrepreneurial economy and development to all Africans.

Temofe explained AEMA aims to unveil successful African entrepreneurs and unrecognised Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) that have contributed immensely to the development of communities through humanitarian and empowerment initiatives to the world.

Also speaking, the Head of Media and Publicity, AEMA, Senator Iroegbu, noted that one of the key thematic focus of the awards is in the area of se-

curity with both negative and positive implications for Africa Iroegbu opined that economic development cannot be achieved without peace and security, while urging African countries to develop her military.

Two categories of topics that were discussed at the plaque and award nominees unveiling, the first being “Africa and China Economic Relations” with panelists that include: Mr. Baba Imoru Abdulai of AfDB; Executive Secretary, National Commission for Normadic Education, Prof.

BH Usman; Director-General, Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Mrs. Tonia Shoyele; Dr. Sherrif Ghali

Ibrahim of the University of Abuja; and Regional Director of UNESCO, Mr. Ydo Yao. The second panel of discussion on the “Effect of Youth on the African Economy”, has young Africans as panelists including: Ms. Thembakazi Taki, Williams Uchemba, Japhet Omojuwa, Adebola Williams, Hamzat Lawal, Seun Ologun Williams and Moses Siasa Siloko. Successful Nigerians nominated for the award include; Aliko Dangote for African Economic Merit Awards Hero Of The Year Award, Tony Elumelu for African Economic Merit Awards African Philanthropist Of The Year, Mo’ Abudu for African Economic

Merit Awards Woman of the Year and Obiageli Ezekwesili was nominated for African Economic Merit Awards Africa’s Leading Voice .

Also, late Dora Akunyili was nominated for African Economic Merit Awards Posthumous Hero Of The Year Award when the Sultan Abubakar III and Oba Ewuare II African Economic Merit Awards Monarch Of The Year.

Others are Globacom and Peak Milk for African Economic Merit Awards Africa’s Brand Choice Awards. In addition to Philanthropist award, Elumelu was nominated in two other categories including African Man of the Year and NGO of the Year Awards.

SPAR Nigeria expands with new outlet in Lagos

A

new outlet of SPAR Nigeria has been opened in Lagos, increasing the footprint of the leading chain of hypermarket in the country, which is Africa’s largest economy.

SPAR Nigeria has been at the forefront of providing quality retail products to Nigerians in a very cosy environment.

The new store was opened at Leisure Mall, located on Adeniran Ogunsanya Street, Surulere, Lagos and it offers food, grocery, fruits and vegetables, butchery & bakery, wine & spirits, take away food, frozen, consumer electronics, laptops, mobile phone along with host of other products categories in the household consumption space.

With this latest addition, SPAR Nigeria now has a total of 14 stores across the country with eight in Lagos, two each in Abuja and Port Harcourt and one each in Enugu and Calabar.

“We the opening of the new store, total number of SPAR store in the country has raised to 14 with over 45,000 sq mtrs of retail space,” the company said.

The outlet, which was commissioned in the presence of well-meaning people drawn from corporate and social spaces in Nigeria, was declared open by the Chairman of Leisure Mall, Mr Abiodun Balogun, Senior officials of SPAR Nigeria amongst many others.

In his comment at the launch of the new outlet, the Marketing Manager, SPAR Nigeria, Mr Emmanuel Isangediok said, “We are excited to increase our footprint in Lagos by opening this outlet and in Nigeria at large. By opening this outlet, we are reiterating our commitment to improving the retail sector of the economy and through the provision of jobs for the teeming youths.”

According to him, “We are glad to have brought the brand closer to the people of Surulere, Iponri, Orile-Iganmu and environs and it will reduce their travel time to get •Winners displaying their prizes as Stanbic IBTC organized its annual charity walk at the weekend in Lagos, Abuja and their products of choice from other Port Harcourt with a full contingent of staff as well as other well-meaning Nigerians to raise awareness and support for outlets with the state,” he added. limbless and indigent children under its flagship corporate social investment (CSI) initiative, ‘Together 4 A Limb’.

BPE targets N300bn from privatisation activities

B

UREAU of Public Enterprises (BPE) says it will generate over N300 billion from its privatisation and commercialisation activities to support the 2018 budget financing.

Director-General of BPE, Dr Alex Okoh, disclosed this on Monday in Lagos at the Stakeholders Media Interactive Forum organised by the Enterprise and the Stakeholders Engagement Committee of the National Council on Privatisation (SECNCP).

The event was chaired by Alhaji Lai Mohammed, the Minister of Information and Culture and the Chairman of SEC-NCP. In a presentation, Okoh said some of the transactions in the pipeline include the concession of Warri Old Port and the reconcession of the Lagos International Trade Fair Complex.

He added the sale of Afam Power Plant and three National Independent Power Projects as well as the partial commercialisation of the River Basin Development Authorities and National Parks.

The DG, further, disclosed that the BPE recently concluded the sale of the Federal Government’s 21 per cent interest in Nigeria Security Printing and Minting Company to the Central Bank of Nigeria.

He said the transaction will contribute a net sum of over N17 billion to national treasury.

Okoh said that the process for re-

capitalisation of the Bank of Agriculture to create a stable financial institution that will support farmers was ongoing.

He said the government through the CBN; the farmers associations would acquire 40 per cent each of the equity while the private sector

would acquire 20 per cent.

Okoh also disclosed that Nigeria Postal Agency (NIPOST) would be unbundled into five commercialisation entities.

The BPE boss said the Enterprise was entering into new privatisation reform programme through Public Private Partnership.

He said the new reform programme targeted the utility and infrastructure sectors including railway, highways, roads, airports and the health sectors.

Okoh appealed to the media to support the government in the privatisation process.

sul General, U.S Embassy; Ms Laure Beaufils, Deputy High Commissioner, U.K Embassy; Mr Ayotunde Coker, MD, Rack Center; Mr Akinbowale Akin-Olugbade, MD, Kawai

Technologies; Ms Funke Opeke, CEO, Main One Cable Company Limited; Mr Mukul Mathur, Country Head, Olam Nigeria Limited; and Mr Mark Essien, CEO, Hotel.ng.

LCCI international investment conference holds Thursday

T

HE Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) will on Thursday, November 1, 2018 hold its International Investment Conference in Lagos.

A statement from the agency disclosed that the theme for the confab is Promoting Investment, Connecting Businesses.

The 2018 edition of the Investment Conference, which starts by 9am at the Shell Hall, Muson Centre, Onikan, Lagos, will provide participants with the investment opportunities in Nigeria, insight into factors that impede foreigners from leveraging on the investment opportunities and challenges faced by indigenous investors and proffer solutions.

It would also provide a veritable platform for a mutually beneficial exchange between local and international investors, the diplomatic community and key public-sector players in the investment ecosystem in Nigeria.

The panel sessions will be addressed by the Mr John Bray, Con-

Access Bank commits to repositioning Africa’s banking sector

A

CCESS Bank has restated its commitment to positioning Africa as a continent viable for investment, particularly in financial institutions.

The move is evident in the bank’s current drive to enhance the perception of Africa by drawing the attention of the global community to the continent’s culture, arts and lifestyle, as well as providing essential channels through which its people can engage profitably.

The Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Access Bank, Herbert Wigwe, while speaking about his bank’s direction, stressed the continuation of an existing passion to ensure that the world sees and appreciates the true representation of Africa.

“Over time, we have remained

committed to raising the standard of banking practice in Africa without compromising the importance of our customers.

“Throughout our years of operations, we have realised how viable Africa has become, not only in terms of its feasible business environment, but the uniqueness of its people, culture, resources and lifestyle.

“These are the stories we are happy to share and we are committed to take a pivotal role in leading this charge over the next five years,” he added. Access Bank is presently leveraging on technology, especially with its positive track record of innovative products such as the Access Africa- its cross-border transfer service, which is the fastest way to send and receive money across Africa.

19

The Oracle Today Wednesday November 7, 2018

BUSINESS

NNPC records N7.15b trading surplus for June

•Says no plan to review pump price

N

IGERIAN National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) says it has made N7.15 billion as trading surplus in the month of June, lower than N18.12 billion made in May. The Corporation disclosed this on its June edition of the Monthly Financial Report released, Tuesday in Abuja.

The version was the 35th edition of the financial report of the corporation.

“This 35th edition of the report indicated a trading surplus of N7.15billion which is relatively lower than the May 2018 trading surplus of N18.12billion.

“The reduced performance was mainly due to decline in the Nigerian Petroleum Development Company’s (NPDC) production and lifting,’’ it said According to the report, the corporation has developed 12 key Business Focus Areas (BUFA) to grow the business and increase profitability for the benefit of Nigerians.

It noted that the business focus area had contributed to consistency in trading surplus of the corporation since February this year.

It named the 12 key business areas to include: Security, New Business models, Joint Venture cash calls, Production and reserve growth, NPDC growth and gas Development.

Others areas are Refinery upgrade and expansion, Renewable Energy and Frontier Exploration, Oil and Gas infrastructure, Ventures and common services, professionalism and Accountability and staff welfare.

On supply of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), known as petrol,

the report noted that 44.37 million litres of PMS were supplied

by NNPC through Petroleum Products Marketing Company (PPMC), its subsidiary for the month of June.

“This effort continued to ensure seamless supply and distribution of products,’’ it said.

Meanwhile, the Corporation says it has no plan to review pump prices of petroleum products, especially Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), popularly known as petrol.

The Corporation disclosed this in a statement signed by its spokesman, Mr Ndu Ughamadu, in Abuja, on Tuesday.

“The Federal Government has no plan to review prices of white products either downwards or upwards,’’ he said.

He said that though NNPC, since October, 2017, had been the sole importer of PMS into the country, government had no plan to review the market prices of products either upwards or downwards now.

He cautioned those spreading falsehood to be wary of the impacts their ignoble act could cause on prices of petroleum products especially petrol as the festive period draws near.

According to him, if not checked, the insinuation of unsubstantiated price review can lead to artificial scarcity and hoarding of products by consumers.

This, he added may result in unwarranted queues and suffering of Nigerians at fuel stations.

Ughamadu urged members of the public to report any station that sells PMS above the N145 recommended price to the offices of the Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR) nationwide.

•Divisional Head, Securities Offering Division, Securities and Exchange Commission, SEC, Abdusalam Sa’ad, Acting Executive Commissioner Operations SEC, Mr. Isyaku Tilde, Africa Programme Manager, Climate Bonds International, Mr. Olumide Lala and Head of Investment Management Department SEC, Mr. Efiok Ekpeyong Efiok during a sensitization on Green Bonds to the Staff of SEC in Abuja weekend.

FirstBank, Clickatell drive financial inclusion using WhatsApp

F

IRST Bank of Nigeria, in partnership with Clickatell’s Transact division, has commercially launched its Chat Banking channel on WhatsApp. This capability enables FirstBank’s customers to manage their banking needs within their WhatsApp chat with the same efficiency as USSD. Customers can add First Bank’s published WhatsApp phone number or a direct link access the First Bank’s “Verified” profile to begin a secure Chat Banking session.

Clickatell Transact’s bank grade platform allows for banks around the world to develop and seamlessly deliver their unique customer experiences consistently across multiple

channels. Clickatell Transact’s solutions allow banks to self-manage and instantly deploy changes to their offerings without the need for intensive professional services lowering turnaround times from weeks to minutes, reducing launch friction, development cycles and associated overheads. This launch with First Bank of Nigeria marks the third large scale deployment by Clickatell in the African market in the past month.

Clickatell has pioneered the Chat Banking innovation through WhatsApp with a high emphasis on security to make WhatsApp a risk-free and convenient business engagement channel for customers. Multiple layers of encryption and authentication

ensure a safe, and hassle-free transactional experience.

First Bank of Nigeria will offer its’ customers a full suite of banking options that can be initiated through WhatsApp, including balance checks, transfers, payments in addition to a vast bouquet of digital products and services that can be purchased instantly. WhatsApp unlocks an opportunity for brands to offer their customers a more personal, intuitive and efficient way to engage with them on chat.

“Customers’ expectations are constantly changing and it’s our duty as a customer focused bank to ensure that our customers are provided with the means to initiate or carry

Gas economy: Investors demand market liberalization •Cont’d from Pg 17

and deepening the demand capacity of the local market to absorb supplies continue to dominate conversations at policy debate platforms organized by various trade groups.

At the international conference hosted by the Nigerian Gas Association mid October, panellists agreed that Nigerian must address its policy and infrastructure concerns in order to attract investible funds in positioning her gas industry to lead the economy in the next 50 years.

Managing Director of Frontier Oil Limited, Mr. Dada Thomas, stated at the event that unclear policy frameworks and disagreements over fiscal arrangements have left Nigeria’s huge gas resources largely untapped while the industry remain in the sleep mode.

The situation, he said, has deprived citizens of the full economic benefits of the gas advantage, pointing out that there is a positive correlation between gas consumption and gross domestic product of any country.

In pointing at the need for the country to put her gas resources to economic use, Mr. Thomas said government must make the nation’s gas industry attractive to international investments in order to lead a regional reticulation process.

He lamented the prevailing fiscal uncertainty in the nation’s exploration and production industry flow-

ing impasse on the provisions of the Petroleum Industry Fiscal Bill (PIFB) currently awaiting legislative processes at the National Assembly.

“Gas is the present, the future and the leader in the petroleum value chain. Gas is one of the keys that will release people in Nigeria and West Africa from extreme poverty,” he said.

Secretary General of the International Gas Union, Mr. Luis Bertran Rafecas, declared to the industry that “the future looks like gas, and more enterprises are shifting their business patterns to gas.”

He listed factors for future supply to include cost, supply security and sustainability of operations.

Leader of the OPTS, Mr. Osagie Okunbor, in a presentation delivered for him stated government must address a number of industry concerns for investors to stake funds in meeting the 7.5 billion standard cubic feet of gas per day by 2020, adding that the domestic gas value chain required further development.

According to him, inability of NNPC to meet its funding commitments to joint venture projects pose major set backs to upstream gas investments.

This, according to him, compounds the security issues that hamper onshore operations in the environment.

Pointing at the depth of the domestic gas market, Mr. Okunbor challenged the government to stim-

ulate the needed demand incentives for commercial investments by gas producers and processors.

He also lamented the debt pile up in the gas-to-power programme, demanding explanation over the fate of the market when the government’s power intervention programme in the power sector expires

by January 2019.

Managing Director of Nigerian Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG) Limited, Mr. Tony Attah, stated in his presentation that Nigeria must raise her game in comprehensive gas utilization, explaining that efficient implementation of acceptable policies is urgently needed as the escape velocity into industrialization.

He listed conditions for investments to include safe and stable operating environment, offtake guarantee for produced gas, and deepening local industrial capacity for gas utilization.

Chairman/Managing Director of Chevron Nigeria Limited (CNL), Mr. Jeff Ewing, whose presentation was delivered at the gas summit called for market liberalization model that allows buyers and sellers to transact directly at mutually acceptable rates.

He said the willing seller – willing buyer gas pricing model would ensure the viability of the sector in order to for the country to transition from an oil-based economy to a more integrated oil and gas economy and end routine gas flaring.

He listed success factors to include deliberate exploration for nonassociated gas to support the Nigeria Gas Master Plan, with a focus on high liquid yield non-associated gas resources to optimize the gas development project economics.

Key benefits, he listed, include growth of new industries made possible from the abundant resources and competitively priced gas supply.

“CNL is optimistic about the future of oil and gas business in Nigeria. We have been making significant investments in the country for over 50 years and expect to do so for many more years to come,” he said.

The Chief Operating Officer in charge of Gas and Power at NNPC, Mr. Mohammed Saidu, listed challenges that face the sector to include absence of take off and payment guarantees for supply sustainability, adding that the power sector crises have imposed uncertainty on security if supply.

He also listed security of demand, security of payment, acute demand drops from the power sector, and payment breaches in the market.

He however pointed at huge commercial opportunities in the gas sector as adequate incentives for commercial investments, stressing that investors cannot ignore the Nigerian gas market.

In trying to address some of the concerns raised by the commercial

players in the gas sector, the Technical Assistant to the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Mr. Gbite Adeniji, stated that government’s gas industry policies target supply security to meet the need pof fast growing economy, adding that new contractor frameworks were being worked out to unlock offshore gas.

He said that government would provide for the private sector to lead investments in infrastructure developments that would deepen the market and guarantee the success of midstream projects. He added that the ministry would collaborate with investors to enhance the country’s economic development, adding that robust fiscal policies were underway to ensure that projects work for the private sector.

A survey of positions held by stakeholders in the petroleum industry show that wide gaps still exist over fiscal arrangements proposed in the lingering Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB) to govern commercial operations in the industry.

According to a prominent figure in the OPTS, government must come to terms with the reality that the commercial investors in the industry need a guarantee of adequate financial returns before they take decisions for investments; and the prevailing uncertainty in the sector does not inspire investment decisions.

20

The Oracle Today Wednesday November 7, 2018

ENERGY

Fortunes alter in NNPC’s crude lifting contracts •As NIDAS resumes trading operations Stories by SOPURUCHI ONWUKA

L

OCAL and foreign oil traders lined up in the crude lifting term contracts with the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) may have their positions shaken with the revival of NIDAS Shipping Services to dominate the business.

NIDAS is a forlorn inhouse business arm of the corporation with which it runs a joint venture with South Korean Daewoo Shipping and Marine Engineering (DSME) Limited on movement of crude oil cargoes mainly between the two countries.

However, the NIDAS JV, like most of public enterprises in the country ran aground, leaving the crude term contract to become one of the most overcrowded opportunity fairs for oil traders and shippers in the export market.

NNPC stated Tuesday that it has taken full ownership of the busi-

ness and subsequently relaunched NIDAS Shipping Services into the global crude trading fray.

According to corporate spokesman for NNPC, Mr. Ndu Ughamadu, full ownership means that NNPC has constituted new board and management for the company, and offered it full preferential rights to manage import and export operations for the corporation.

He said NIDAS would optimize right of first refusal offer in the NNPC annual crude oil term and Direct-Sale-Direct Purchase (DSDP) agreements with foreign refineries. Under the arrangement, the corporation’s trading partners would reserve exclusive rights for cargo freight services for NIDAS. Mr. Ughamadu also stated that NNPC has plans to acquire a fleet of ocean going tankers to enable NIDAS own and operate run smooth freight operations and secure a significant share in the global shipping

market.

Incorporated in 2007 as a Joint Venture between NNPC, Daewoo Shipbuilding and Marine Engineering Company Limited (DSME), NIDAS is presently a wholly owned subsidiary of the corporation.

Subsequently, a Board of Directors was inaugurated by the GMD with Engr. Henry Ikem Obih, Chief Operating Officer Downstream, as chairman, while Mr. Lawal Sade was appointed Managing Director with mandate to drive the turn-around process and effective re-entry strategy of NIDAS into the international oil shipping business.

The relaunch of the company into

the trading fray signifies the end of the joint venture partnership between NNPC and Daewoo Shipbuilding and Marine Engineering Company Limited (DSME) for trading on mainly on Nigerian cargoes.

Mr. Ughamadu stated that NIDAS would resume international freight of crude oil and petroleum products seven years after it suspended operations.

He said revival of NIDAS is part of the plans of the corporation to take commercial advantage of its crude term contract deals, explain that the company would hold preferential rights in bidding for the corporation’s trading and products swap deals with offshore refiners.

The Oracle Today reports that NNPC runs crude oil export lifting

contract terms with international oil traders that take offtake opportunities at the nation’s export terminals in the Niger Delta.

Already, NIDAS is said to have established a desk in NNPC’s office in the United Kingdom to facilitate charter deals with international ship owners as a first step to regain its market position.

Mr. Ughamadu stated that NIDAS has concluded the charter of LRI tanker, MV Atlantica Bridge to load jet fuel from El Dekheila Port, Egypt for delivery to Nigeria for sister Duke Oil. He added that NIDAS was also booking the Res Cogitans tanker to take Mercuria’s gasoline cargo for early-November loading from Europe’s ARA (Amsterdam-Rotterdam-Antwerp) region to Lagos.

FG has no plans for fuel price hike – NNPC

F

EDERAL government has denied plans to raise the pump price of transportation fuel in the country despite the controversial subsidy cost overrun by the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC).

The corporation which is currently the sole supplier of subsidized fuel in the country said in a public statement that rumours of impending review of pump prices of petroleum products are unfounded.

Group General Manager, Group Public Affairs, Mr. Ndu Ughamadu, said government has no plans to tamper with retail prices of prices of petroleum products either downwards or upwards despite open market price disparity.

The statement cautioned rumour mongers to be wary of the impacts their ignoble act could cause on prices of petroleum products especially petrol as the festive period draws near, adding that if not checked, the insinuation of unsubstantiated price review can lead to artificial scarcity, hoarding of products by consumers which in turn may result in unwarranted queues and suffering of Nigerians at fuel stations.

The NNPC spokesman disclosed

that members of the public should report any station which sells PMS above the N145 recommended price to the offices of the Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR) nationwide, saying the Department is authorised to monitor and regulate the Industry’s activities.

Ughamadu said the recent statement of the NNPC GMD, Dr. Maikanti Baru, that the corporation had 37 days stock of PMS subsists, stressing that the NNPC’s helmsman has mapped out strategies to ensure that Nigerians have a hitchfree festive period.

•President, Nigerian Gas Association (NGA), Mrs Audrey Joe-Ezigbo (l) presents Leadership Recognition Award to MD, Axxela limited, Mr. Bolaji Osunsanya, during the 2018 International Conference and Exhibition in Abuja.

Axxela urges urgent action on domgas development

M

ULTINATIONAL gas and power investor, Axxela Limited, has called on industry stakeholders to collaborate effectively towards ensuring accelerated development of gas infrastructure across the Sub-Saharan Africa.

Managing Director of the company, Mr. Bolaji Osunsanya, stated in a keynote address at a gas conference in Abuja that government and commercial stakehold-

ers in the value chain must rise to the challenge of resolving the critical concerns about market depth.

In stressing the need for urgent response to the challenges, Mr. Osunsanya pointed at the key issues that affect sustainable development and infrastructural growth to include market readiness, supply assurance, policy and regulation, suitability of financing, and execution discipline.

He said: “The major issues that

Limited, Engr. Victor Sodje signed for the operating companies.

The SLA was developed by the two parties in line with the provisions of the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development (NOGICD) Act and in sync with the Board’s 10-Year Strategic Roadmap.

The Executive Secretary said the SLA would enhance the reduction of contracting timelines to six months to meet the target set by the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Dr. Emmanuel Ibe Kachikwu.

The agreement with the IPPG is the third in the series. The Board had executed similar pacts with the Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG) and the Oil Producers

Trade Section (OPTS) - the umbrella body of major oil producing companies. “This initiative was the first between a regulator and its key stakeholders in the Nigerian oil and gas industry,” Wabote added.

According to him, the SLA initiative has been very effective since its introduction in May 2017. “It has enhanced the efficiency of the interface between the Board and industry operators. The example can be seen in the swift execution of some contracts in the oil and gas industry such as the LPG vessel supply contract awarded by NLNG, the NLNG Train-7 project, and several other contracts put in place by the international operating companies under the umbrella of the SLA signed with OPTS.

NCDMB, indigenous producers agree on tendering cycle

T

HE Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) and the Indigenous Petroleum Producers Group (IPPG) have signed a Service Level Agreement (SLA), which would drive local content implementation and simplify the procurement and tendering processes for oil and gas projects.

The Executive Secretary NCDMB, Engr. Simbi Kesiye Wabote and the General Manager, Projects Certification and Authorization Division (PCAD), NCDMB, Engr. Paul Zuhumben signed on behalf of the Board at a ceremony in Lagos on Tuesday, while the Chairman of the IPPG, Mr. Ademola Adeyemi-Bero and the Managing Director, Newcross Petroleum

have hitherto affected the sustainable development and growth of the infrastructure needed for the domestic gas sector can be aggregated into market readiness, supply assurance, policy and regulation, suitability of financing, and execution discipline.

“The challenges are significant and might seem daunting; nevertheless, given the imperatives of the gas policy and the significance of gas infrastructure development to the achievement of its objectives, we must confront the challenges head on. The time to act is now and these solutions must be locally-owned and driven.

“I trust that all stakeholders within the gas sector will endeavour to collaborate effectively towards ensuring the accelerated development of gas infrastructure across the region.”

The Oracle Today reports that Axxela Limited was presented with a Special Recognition Award by the Nigerian Gas Association (NGA) for its immense contributions to the growth and development of the Nigerian gas industry.

Mr. Osunsanya was also presented with the NGA Leadership Award in recognition of his exemplary leadership during his tenure as the NGA president from 20142016.

Speaking on the awards, he said Axxela has sustained efforts in spurring economic empowerment and industrialisation across the region, particularly Nigeria, through its business enterprise.

“We must also commend the NGA for its proactive approach in advocating the gas advantage, engaging key stakeholders on opportunities to anticipate and bolster legislation and policies, and promoting investment in the Nigerian gas sector.”

Axxela’s Head, Gas & Power Infrastructure, Myke Oseh, was also sworn in as the Deputy Secretary General of the NGA. It would be recalled that Axxela is the pioneer developer of Nigeria’s foremost natural gas distribution network and has subsequently grown to become the largest private sector natural gas distributor in Nigeria, delivering 70 million standard cubic feet per day (“mmscf/d”) at peak to over 175 industrial and commercial customers via a vast network of gas infrastructure.

With over 260km in gas pipeline infrastructure built, Axxela provides unique energy solutions primarily through its subsidiaries, including Gaslink Nigeria Limited, Gas Network Services Limited, and Central Horizon Gas Company.

21

The Oracle Today Wednesday November 7, 2018

ENERGY

NNPC caught in political storm, partners freeze Stories by SOPURUCHI ONWUKA

T

HE exposure of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) in the gathering political storm in the country is sending caution signals to commercial investors in the country over the risk of culpability in campaign funding.

Apprehension in the industry rose with the allegations of financial support to the ruling party against NNPC which has been consistently in the storm following unofficial allegiance to the ruling party. The Group Managing Director of the corporation, the Minister of Petroleum Resources, and the Director of the Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR) are usually appointed by the ruling President.

The current head of government agencies in the petroleum industry are appointed by President Muhammadu Buhari. He currently faces unbending contest from former Vice President Atiku Abubakar who enjoys the support of former President Olusegun Obasanjo.

With political campaigns slated to kick off imminently, pundits insist that cash would exert great influence in mobilizing the masses to vote in a particular pattern. And the opposition parties insist that money has started flowing from government’s revenue generating agencies into the ruling party.

Weekend, spokesman of the NNPC, Mr. Ndu Ughamadu, declared publications alleging financial flow from the corporation to the president as unfounded. Before the recent allegation, national legislators had initiated procedure to probe

into the corporation’s withholding of over N1.4 trillion or ($3.9 billion) from the federation account.

In the statement last weekend, the corporation called on the public and industry stakeholders to disregard the cash transfer allegation, noting that Dr. Baru and his management team are focused on delivering the aspiration of the president in the petroleum industry.

NNPC declared that its Group Managing Director, Dr. Maikanti Baru, never made the alleged cash transfer to the President Muhammadu Buhari Campaign Organization for the purpose of funding the media/publicity leg of the exercise.

Mr. Ughamdu said the allegation was a politically motivated to drag the corporation and its leaders into partisan political tussle. He said the allegation was false and against the new culture of transparency and accountability in NNPC. Beyond the latest cash remittance allegation, the National Assembly led by opponents of President Buhari activated investigation into about N1.4 trillion allegedly spent by NNPC on fuel subsidies.

The lawmakers claim that the selffunding by NNPC breached budgetary and financial accounting procedures.

According toa motion by Senator Biodun Olujimi, the whopping cash volume is solely managed by Dr. Baru and another senior official of the NNPC without any level of financial transparency.

The Senate declared that the money was too huge for two officials of government to spend without appropriation.

Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Dr. Ibe Kachikwu, had disclosed that NNPC was spending a total of N1.4 trillion annually on subsidy for fuel. His statement sparked public outrage, prompting a civic organisation, BudgIT, to demand full and detailed information of the government subsidy programme.

The organization’s Communications Lead, Abiola Afolabi, said part of the information required include the beneficiaries, the pricing tem-

plate for arriving at the subsidy rates and the volume of petroleum products utilised be made open.

The challenge from BugIT followed its observation of lack of accountability and transparency by the federal government and the NNPC on the amount spent on subsidy in 2016, 2017 as well as the first quarter of 2018.

However, Mr Ughamadu has continued to defend the corporation, arguing that he is only aware of a

gos Pipeline System (ELPS) for domestic and export markets.

Dr. Baru stated that the project’s funding constraints would be addressed soonest through the money market to ensure completion of the project.

“All these projects are located within OML 111, one of our critical assets which we are keen on deriving maximum benefits from,” he stated.

Managing Director of the NPDC, Mr. Yusuf Matashi, said the LPG Dispensing Facility would offer 40

percent supply solution for Nigeria’s domestic market and earn additional income for the company.

“Another advantage is that it will ensure ease of distribution and penetration into the market. You can take LPG to every nook and cranny of the country from here.

So, it is quite strategic,” he noted.

“We have also completed a Skills Acquisition Centre which is currently being furnished in line with the component of the project. We intend to commission the centre even before the project is com-

pleted. From our records, this is one project that has engendered cordial relationship with the Oredo community and we hope to replicate similar understanding in other areas within the Niger Delta,” Matashi stated.

Chief Operating Officer, Upstream, at the NNPC, Mallam Bello Rabiu, said the project would be delivered within time and budget, and charged the workers to double the over one million man-hours achieved so far in the project without any incidence.

• GMD NNPC, Dr. Maikanti Baru sharing a joke with the Managing Director of the Nigerian Petroleum Development Company (NPDC), Mr. Yusufu Matashi (left) and NNPC’s General Manager/Company Secretary, Mrs. Deborah Usman, during the GMD’s visit to the Company’s Integrated Gas Handling Facility (IGHF) in Oredo, near Benin City, Tuesday.

Oredo gas complex to be ready December P ROJECT drivers in the Oredo integrated facility complex in Edo State will deliver the four plants in the production cluster by the end of the year.

According to Nigeria Petroleum Development Company which operates the assets, the facilities being developed in the complex would stabilise liquids from producing wells, harness and process gas into different specifications for the domestic market.

The Oracle Today reports that the Oredo gas project remains one of the biggest gas investments by the NPDC which operates exploration and production ventures for parent Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC).

The facility development projects are hosted in oil mining lease (OML) 111 acreage located 34 kilometres southeast of Benin City.

The OML 111 is an onshore field comprising five fields: Oki-Oziengbe-South, Aroh North, Koko, Oghama as well as Oredo. The block has 15 wells out of which 12 are currently producing.

Clustered facilities being developed by NPDC with the use of indigenous contractors and workers Oredo Flow Station, Oredo Gas-toPan-Ocean Facility, Oredo Integrated Gas Handling Facility (IGHF), and Oredo LPG Dispensing Facility.

When completed in December, the IGHF which is currently at 80 percent completion will make provision for dehydration of gas and liquid extraction to produce both Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), Propane and dry gas. While the LPG feeds into the domestic market, the dry gas flows into the Escravos La-

NUPENG guarantees yuletide fuel flow •NNPC warns against fire blasts

A

LL fuel supply arrangements appear tidy for travellers during the festive Christmas and New Year periods following accord between the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) and oil workers on efficient supply and distribution of transportation fuel during the period.

And with the promise of abundant supply, NNPC warns consumers to avoid stocking the highly volatile premium motor spirit, also called petrol, in conditions that could lead to fire incidents in the period characterised by dry harmattan wind.

The guarantee of distribution efficiency came with the pledge by the National Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) to work closely with NNPC to ensure a hitch-free products distribution across the country throughout the

end of year festive period.

National President of NUPENG, Prince Williams Akporeha, gave this assurance when he led the National Central Working Committee (CWC) on a courtesy visit to the Group Managing Director of NNPC, Dr. Maikanti Baru, at the NNPC Towers in Abuja.

He said members of the union would be on duty to address any issue capable of disrupting the distribution of petroleum products between now and the end of the year.

He also commended the GMD’s giant stride in revamping products pipelines and strategic depots across the country which he said had reduced products theft and revived business activities across the Country.

Responding, Dr. Baru, who inaugurated the newly elected NUPENG NNPC Group Executives, charged the labour leaders to sustain the industri-

al harmony currently being enjoyed in the industry by resorting to dialogue instead of threats and confrontation.

Meanwhile the Group General Manager in charge if the Group Public Affairs Department of NNPC, Mr. Ndu Ughamadu, warned fuel users to take extra caution during the approaching dry season to avert fuel fire blasts.

Mr. Ughamadu said in a public statement that experience had shown that commuters stock petroleum products at home or move about with them in their vehicle boot at this period of the year, exposing themselves and others to serious danger. Ughamadu referred to the incident involving a car laden with fuel which burst into flames while in motion last week at Umuode community, Osisioma Ngwa Local Government Area of Abia State, as an example of the danger of transporting inflammable petroleum products in vehicle not made for that purpose.

He also appealed to communi-

N380 billion Petroleum Support Fund stashed with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and jointly managed with the Ministry of Finance.

Independent analysts, Renaissance Capital, had in a business advice to its clients in the country, stated that Nigeria used $1.3 billion for gasoline subsidies in the first half of the year.

Besides the fuel subsidy saga, NNPC was also accused by the stakeholders in the federation account of under-remittance, also prompting the House of Representatives to launch a separate investigation into revenue flow from the petroleum industry.

A source in one of the multinational oil companies in the country told The Oracle Today that it would be difficult for any operating company now to honour payment requests to contractors representing NNPC until the current political season is over.

“The days are so troubled now that tracking of financial flow by inhouse and third-party agencies has been stepped up; and in this kind of situation, attention is focused on the government’s revenue generating agencies. So, the NNPC and her partners are usually the prime suspects,” our source said. ties hosting NNPC facilities to refrain from stealing products from pipelines or engaging in activities that my lead to spill of petroleum products saying such practices lead to disastrous incidents.

He called on citizens to report suspicious movements around the fuel storage and distribution facilities to the law enforcement agencies, adding that observing basic safety rule of keeping away from areas where inflammable petroleum products spills had occurred could save lives and properties.

It would be recalled that many people died and property worth millions of Naira burned when some members of Umuaduru and Umuimo communities in Osisioma Ngwa Local Government Area of Abia State were caught in a fire as they scooped petrol around NNPC’s burst pipeline in their community.

Dr. Baru explained that NNPC has 37 days fuel sufficiency, according to the release by the NNPC spokesperson, stressing the GMD said that strategies had been put in place to ensure that Nigerians experience a hitch-free festive period.

22

The Oracle Today Wednesday November 7, 2018

e-Platform

MDXI launches W/Africa’s carrier-neutral IX with Asteroid Stories by VICTOR NZE

W

EST Africa’s largest data centre provider, MDXI and global IXP platform provider, Asteroid have partnered to launch a carrier-neutral Internet Exchange Point (IXP) for West Africa. The West African Internet Exchange (WAF-IX), is based on Asteroid’s lightweight design and will be located in MDXI’s Tier III Data Centre, in Lagos, , West Africa’s biggest economic hub.

Outlining the three major objectives for WAF-IX as accessibility, lower costs and reduced latency for Internet users in West Africa, Product Manager, MDXI/Peering Coordinator, WAF-IX, Vremudia Oghene-Ruemu stressed that the new Internet Exchange would complement national IXPs, improve regional traffic and ultimately foster the attainment of the digital economy across West Africa.

“Given the size of its markets and status as home to some of Africa’s biggest economies, West Africa is uniquely positioned to scale up its digital transformation efforts via Internet traffic growth. The West African Internet Exchange, hosted within our globally certified Data Centre will significantly improve traffic exchange and localization within West Africa, with benefits of reduced latency, improved speed and better quality of service to end users. WAF-IX will enable more Africa-focused global and lo-

cal carriers take advantage of the region’s growing Internet penetration to enable services originating and terminating within the region”, he said.

West African Internet Exchange will facilitate improved interconnection, collaboration and peering between players with access to MDXI’s Tier III data centre, and will enable an ecosystem that allows customers connect to multiple networks, cloud and content providers. Using the lean and efficient Asteroid IXP platform, WAF-IX will enable service providers operate more efficiently with the delivery of enhanced end-to-end network performance, while reducing overall IP Transit costs.

Asteroid CEO, Remco van Mook, said: “West Africa’s digital economy is on the rise, but huge gaps still exist in in-country interconnection.

We believe that the Internet sector across West Africa has incredible potential for growth and will be greatly enabled by the West African Internet Exchange. Together, we can provide a gateway for West African networks to peer with international content providers.”

WAF-IX host, MDXI is West Africa’s largest data centre provider offering colocation, interconnection and cloud services and is the region’s most connected data centre, with proven competence to interconnect OTTs and major network, content and financial services providers.

EMTS marks 10th anniversary, thanks Nigerians

E

MERGING Markets Telecommunication Services Limited (EMTS) trading as 9mobile (formerly Etisalat Nigeria) has commemorated its first 10 years’ milestone as one of Nigeria’s leading Global System of Mobile (GSM) telecommunications services providers.

In a statement, signed by Mr Boye Olusanya, the CEO, 9mobile, the company reflecting on the company’s journey which commenced in October 2008, thanked its customers, partners for supporting the firm through the decade.

“We express our heartfelt gratitude to our teeming customers, partners, regulators and government for your support and for standing by us over this past decade. We acknowledge that our successes and achievements over the past 10 years would not have been possible without your unalloyed support and continued patronage.

“As we reflect on our journey so far, we take great joy in our heritage as a truly Nigerian company renowned for innovation, customer-centricity and youthfulness. We recall with fond memories the disruptive market launch of our service as a wholly Nigerian brand with a global appeal, through the ‘0809ja’ campaign in October 2008. This moniker has rightly stayed with us through the years; and with you our esteemed customers and partners behind us, EMTS today remains a prime driver and avid supporter of the Nigerian spirit of excellence.

“In just 10 years of operations as Nigeria’s innovative Mobile Network Operator (MNO), we have revolutionised the nation’s telecommunications industry with an array of ground-breaking products, services and solutions to empower our youth, entrepreneurs, SMEs and indeed all segments of the Nigerian society.

“Our total commitment to leveraging technology in building businesses across the country and empowering the youth has been widely acknowledged and rewarded with several awards.

“We have recorded many firsts in the industry including our most daring masterbrand campaign ‘0809UChoose’ which put power in the hands of subscribers to choose their numbers. Others are 9Cliq, the first-of-its-kind educational tool in the youth market; and GEM, a unique loyalty proposition in the Nigerian telecommunication industry for high-value customers.

“Moreblaze, our revolutionary data bundle that offers the fastest data; and our 4G LTE service which does not require a SIM swap for customers to enjoy 4G connectivity; also rank on the list. Our innovative multi-device product that allows customers use a single data subscription on up to 5 different devices concurrently remains unique, and our first ever smartpaks product that offers customers different applications including WhatsApp, Instagram, twitter, Facebook etc., based on their lifestyle at affordable rates, is unbeatable in the market.

“Our enterprise solutions including Market Access and SME Arena have served as growth enablers for small businesses; while easy payment solutions like 9pay, a mobile wallet that allows people to make seamless payments, continue to drive financial growth. We have also left significant footprints on education, arts and culture with the 9mobile Telecommunications Engineering Postgraduate Program (9TEPP) – a first in West Africa; our flagship pan-African 9mobile Prize for Literature which promotes literacy and encourages writers to hone their craft across Africa; and the 9mobile Photography Competition,” the statement read.

•Managing Director, Ecobank Nigeria, Mr. Patrick Akinwuntan, flanked by other top executives of the bank during a Commemorative Dinner in Lagos organized to celebrate outgoing members of the Ecobank Nigeria Board and to welcome its newly appointed directors, as well as to formally unveil the dedicated mobile remittance app Rapidtransfer.

Airtel formally unveils 4G LTE Network in Lagos

C

HIEF Executive Officer and Managing Director of Airtel Nigeria, Mr. Segun Ogunsanya, has said the telco now has the widest 4G network coverage in the country.

Ogunsanya who was speaking yesterday at the Wheatbaker Hotel, Ikoyi, Lagos during the formal unveiling of Airtel 4G, said Airtel has launched its 4G network in over 60 major cities and towns in Nigeria across many states.

“Airtel’s 4G network is now in over 60 major cities and towns in Nigeria across different States, making Airtel the network with the widest and largest 4G coverage in the country,” he said.

The Airtel CEO also noted that the Airtel 4G launch in Lagos “serves as a glowing testimony of our commitment to partner and empower the good people of Lagos, a truly cosmopolitan state where dreams come true.

“We know Lagos has its own spirit – a can-do spirit and it also has its own peculiar energy, which is very fast-paced. The good news is that Air-

tel 4G will help everyone in Lagos to do more and achieve more, regardless of status and location.

“With fast mobile Internet, a young professional will be able to use his map to understand the traffic network, plan and connect with the right people. The tailor will be able to take measurement through video calls; the fish seller will be able to share photos and short videos of his current stock. Ditto every other person.

“Indeed, 4G comes with tons of benefits and the possibilities are endless: it will accelerate economic and commercial activities; it will boost personal and professional productivity; it will help in creating more entrepreneurs; it will offer the youth a big leverage to express their creativity and talent; it will improve the overall quality of life and connect more people to their dreams,” he said.

Early this year, Airtel began an interesting journey of building the largest and most robust 4G – LTE (Fourth Generation – Long Term Evolution) network in Nigeria.

NCC pays N15m to winners of 2018 tennis tourney

By IBE NWACHUKWU

W

INNERS of this year’s ongoing fourth edition of lawn tennis championship for Nigerian players, sponsored by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) are to smile home with a total sum of N15 million and other consolation prizes.

Out of this amount, the overall winner of the competition is expected to grab as much as N7 million, while the first and second runners-up take N5 million and N3 million each.

The competition kicked off at the zonal levels, after which the overall winner and their runner-up will emerge at the national level at the close of the championship.

At the opening ceremony of the zonal tournament held at the ancient Onitsha Sports Club, Anu Ayegbesi of the Tech Vibes of Plateau state defeated Stella Udekwelu of Anambra state 6 - 1, 7 - 6

(13 - 7) at the zonal level.

NCC’s representative, who disclosed this at Onitsha Sports Club, noted that 12 teams are participating in this year’s competition across the six geo-political zones of the country in nine different cities, while a total of seven matches would be played.

The representative further noted that the on-going competition is aimed at engaging and empowering Nigerian youths through the game of tennis, adding that the competition is also aimed at taking world class tennis to major cities of Nigeria with the aim of attracting and developing sporting talents.

“NCC wants to raise the skill level of the players through regular competitions and we want to enable the top players through prize monies and other incentives to launch professional careers with the aim of getting a slice of millions of dollars available worldwide to tennis players in prize money and bonuses”, the representative also stated.

On the 13th of February, 2018, the telco recorded a major milestone with the pioneer roll-out of its 4G network in Ibadan to the delight of many Nigerians who live in the ancient city.

Since the pioneer launch, Airtel had not looked back. On Thursday, 4th May, 2018, it unveiled its 4G service in Abuja, the nation’s capital while on the 19th and 25th of September, it announced the launch of its 4G service in major towns and cities in Anambra and Delta states.

Airtel CEO, Mr. Ogunsanya and the Executive Governor of Rivers State, His Excellency, Nyesom Wike, on the 27th of September, formally unveiled the Airtel 4G service in Port Harcourt.

Ecobank Nigeria launches RapidTransfer mobile remittance

E

COBANK has introduced a dedicated mobile remittance app Rapidtransfer.

Rapidtransfer app was unveiled by the Managing Director, Ecobank Nigeria, Mr. Patrick Akinwuntan at a commemorative dinner to thank and celebrate outgoing members of the Ecobank Nigeria Board and to welcome its newly appointed directors.

According to Akinwuntan, Rapidtransfer will enable Nigerians in diaspora to send funds home at a reduced cost.

“Historically the cost for Nigerians in the diaspora to send funds home has been far too high, while the process itself has long been inefficient and burdensome. Customers often have to physically visit an agent and yet are left with little or no clarity as to when the funds will actually reach the intended recipient. Rapidtransfer removes all of these issues and its standout affordability will be a gamechanger in the way that Nigerians can send money to their loved ones,” Akinwuntan said.

At the dinner, Mr Patrick Akinwuntan, who was officially welcomed into his new role as Managing Director and Regional Executive of Ecobank Nigeria, and on to the Ecobank Nigeria Board of Directors said.

23

The Oracle Today Wednesday November 7, 2018

e-Platform

Microsoft experiments with modular controllers for mobile devices W

HILE some of the new gaming phones have hardware controls – either on board or as accessories – most handsets out there rely on touch and motion. Those are fine for casual games, but Microsoft believes it can interest serious players with Xbox-like controllers.

This is just a research project for now, but the vision of the team is for Switch-like flexibility. They controllers themselves – analog sticks plus a D-pad or a handful of buttons on each side – are relatively small and they attach to the side of the device (be it phone or tablet).

Additional slide-in grips can be

used for improved ergonomics.

Alternatively, the controller halves can be joined together (attaching to the charging dock) for a more traditional controller experience.

Using just one half could replace dedicated VR motion controllers.

Meanwhile, the latest update for the Xbox One Preview Beta Ring (1811) is rolling out with support for using a keyboard and mouse to play. This is currently limited to Warframe and going forward will be enabled on a game-by-game basis. So, it’s up to developers whether they want it or not (though it might be a good idea if cross-play catches on).

Google discontinues Android’s Nearby Notifications feature

A

few years ago, Android got a new feature that showed you notifications based on your location and what was around you.

However, Google is discontinuing the Nearby Notifications because, according to it, developers began abusing the platform and used it to send spammy alerts to people nearby.

Physical beacons in store locations could beam nearby Androidgoers notifications such as the menu in a restaurant or the store directory of a large shopping mall.

But in the past year, Google has noticed an increase in irrelevant

and spammy notifications and decided that the experience is not to Google’s standards.

Google could have figured out how to stop the spam and filter the content being delivered by these notifications, but decided to ultimately discontinue the feature, effective December 6 of this year.

Developers can keep using this feature by implementing it into their apps and they’ll still have access to the beacon dashboard.

Proximity-based notifications similar to Nearby Notifications will still be a part of Google’s Proximity Beacons API.

Nokia, Samsung extend patent license agreement

N

OKIA just announced that it is renewing its patent license agreement with Samsung and will be allowing the latter to use its patents for multiple more years.

The current agreement will expire at the end of 2018 as it was signed 5 years ago. The period of the new contract hasn’t been specified as all terms of the agreement remain confidential between the two parties.

According to Nokia’s Chief Legal Officer’s statement, this time around, the license agreement doesn’t just cover phone patents but 5G network-related cellular standards as well.

Samsung is a leader in the smartphone industry and has been a Nokia licensee for many years. We are pleased to have reached agreement to extend our license. This agreement demonstrates the strength of our patent portfolio and our leadership in R&D and licensing for cellular standards including

5G. Meanwhile, Samsung is working on foldable phone - that much is no surprise. What might be more intriguing is the following patent, that imagines a flexible tablet that will bend both inwards and outwards to halve the footprint.

The patent was filed with WIPO back in April 2018 and got approved in October. Its description says “Display Device” and reading further along, you learn that the gadget will adapt its user interface to the orientation or the way it bends. Both ends of the flexible panel will have aluminum-magnesium alloy that will stick to each other, probably with some kind of magnet.

Samsung already introduced 14” rollable OLED panel at SID Display in Los Angeles, USA, back in the last week of May. With the approval of the new patent, the Galaxy X is a step away from being a sci-fi myth and slightly closer to becoming a reality.

Microsoft overtakes Amazon as second most valuable

M

ICROSOFT just regained its position as the second most valuable US company by market capitalization after losing it to Amazon back in April this year. The news comes after Microsoft reported good quarterly profit driven by its cloud computing business whereas Amazon lost $65 billion off of its market cap.

Apple still tops the charts with over $1 trillion value followed

by Microsoft and Amazon. The

latter’s shares dropped 7% after missing targets on its holiday season sales. Microsoft is now valued at $823 billion - well above the $805 billion market cap of Amazon.

Apple is going to report its quarterly results on November 1, so we are eager to see if there are any changes there but given the iPhone XS and XS Max release, the results should be more than satisfactory and will keep the company afloat.

Xiaomi’s Black Shark Helo

e-Commerce: Visa commits to draft EMV SRC

T

HE management of Visa has announced a continued commitment to reducing friction and improving security in digital commerce by reiterating support of the draft EMV Secure Remote Commerce (SRC) Specification.

The draft EMV SRC Specification provides a foundation for digital transactions that gives consumers, merchants and issuers a single digital point-of-sale, resulting in a consistent, convenient and secure way to pay.

EMVCo has spent the last year gathering feedback from across the payment ecosystem on the specification. Visa now encourages merchants, issuers, acquirer gateways and other interested participants to provide feedback and comment during a 45-day public comment window. Once complete, EMVCo will publish the final specification.

Shoppers are increasingly migrating to websites, mobile phones and voice-activated devices, but their buying experiences are full of friction because they are required to manually enter payment details. With SRC, consumers’ digital buying experiences will be easier, faster and more secure – just like their experiences when shopping instores.

“Today, digital commerce is an inconsistent and often frictionfilled experience for consumers, and that also results in poor conversion for merchants,” said TS Anil, global head of payment products and platforms, Visa.

“The specification from EMVCo will become a foundation for the evolution of digital payments, that will ensure ease of payment for digital and IoT payments well into the future.”

By developing a standardsbased experience, Visa is helping ensure that the key principles of choice, privacy and security are upheld throughout the payments ecosystem. Standardization also helps streamline digital payments, making them more consistent and reducing the friction that often leads to consumer frustration and shopping cart

abandonment.

“The case for standards in digital commerce has never been stronger. Just as the physical point-of-sale benefited from global, interoperable standards, we expect SRC to bring similar levels of success to eCommerce, mCommerce and IoT channels,” continued Anil. “Visa has also joined the W3C Web Payments Working Group with the objective of ensuring card based payments are secure and simple in the browser-based environments and that interoperability exists between the SRC and W3C Payment Request Specifications.”

By implementing SRC, Visa will simplify the collection of payment details from consumers

and secure them using the newly expanded Visa Token Service.

Together they form the foundation of Visa’s best-in-class digital payment experience, which improves security and convenience for people who are shopping more on mobile devices, mobile apps and online with eCommerce merchants.

As part of this evolution, Visa Checkout, with its more than 40 million consumer accounts, 350,000 merchants and 1,600 financial institutions in 26 global markets, will evolve to the new EMV SRC Specification starting mid-2019 and will support participating card brands, including Visa, Mastercard and American Express.

Discover more talents in ICT -- Minister urges Huawei

M

INISTER of Communications, Mr Adebayo Shittu has called on Huawei Technologies to sustain the cooperation with Nigerian Universities to train more youths in Information Communication and Technology (ICT) to discover more talents.

Shittu said this on Friday in Abuja at the Nigeria ICT Talents Development Summit and Huawei ICT Competition Launched in Abuja.

He said that the initiative to develop ICT talents was apt and in line with the Federal Government’s agenda of empowering youths and building human and institutional capacity.

“We are grateful to Huawei for continuously introducing the world’s leading ICT technologies to Nigeria, and continuing to assist Nigeria in promoting technological innovation, knowledge transfer and ICT infrastructure construction.

“I have been informed that the programme seeks to develop local ICT talent, enhance knowledge transfer, promote a greater understanding and interest in the ICT sector.

“And is to improve and encourage regional building and participation in the digital community.

“I have also been informed that Huawei shared its ICT expertise and experience in managing a multinational with young ICT professionals

and help fuel the development of local industries,’’ he said.

Shittu said that the government was fully in support of the programme because human capital development was number one priority, adding that Nigeria government was committed to building the relationship with China and Huawei Technologies.

“I also want to enjoin you to partner with our local ICT firms in creating wealth and jobs for our teaming ICT savvy youths.

“We are committed to protecting our lands and property within our borders; you can therefore be assured that your investment in Nigeria will be safe and secured.

On his part, Economic Counselor Chinese Embassy, Nigeria, Mr Zhao Linxiang, said that in the era of information explosion, ICT had become one of the most decisive instruments to promote transformation and development of world economy.

Linxiang said that the ICT competition was a great chance for Nigeria to cultivate and reserve enough ICT talents to cope with the ongoing information revolution.

“Huawei provides us far more than an arena, but an academy dedicated to cultivating enterprising young people with the nutrition of proven knowledge and techniques, mastered by the Chinese world-leading ICT company.

24

The Oracle Today Wednesday November 7, 2018

ISSN: 2545-5869

EDITORIAL

www.oraclenews.ng

VOX POPULI SACRUM

On the army rampage in Ebonyi State

nity, Lt. Colonel S.O Sadiq, the Commandant of Nkwagu military cantonment Abakaliki, denied that the soldiers had gone “on a rampage.” Rather, he said the action of the soldiers was sequel to the missing of one of their men, presumably held hostage by the people of the area.

“Communities on both sides of the divide have been attacking each other, but we introduced bike to help us reach all the crisis areas, especially as the people have devised a means of opening public roads to stop us from entering inside the villages,” the commandant further explained. “When the wife of my officer called that she had not seen her husband, I ordered my men to go and comb all the area and bring him either dead or alive. I want him.”

Denying allegations of torture, harassment and wilful destruction of the villagers’ property levelled against his men, insisting they operate within the rules of engagement, Col. Sadiq urged both sides to embrace peace because, according to him, nothing thrives in an atmosphere of war.

While we sympathise with the family of the missing soldier and urge those holding him to release him forthwith--dead or alive--we must warn that this is what we get when we allow soldiers too much role in the management of civilian affairs.

The other day, soldiers, instead of policemen, were deployed to disperse members of the

mode of blocking the road during their procesShiites Islamic group on a peaceful march sion and acting like people above the law. But from Niger State to Abuja, the Federal Capisending the army to kill them in their hundreds tal Territory, demanding the release of their and detaining their leader against many court detained leader Sheik el-Zakzaky. When the rulings is crude and inhuman. gunfire ended and smoke dispersed, several “It was the same way the IPOB people were treatpeople lay dead from soldiers’ bullets while ed: continuously shooting and killing civilians many others were wounded. because they were protesting. Nigeria behaves On South East and South South roads, there are like the typical bully: harassing the gentle with probably more military checkpoints now than excessive force but begging the violent with there are police ones. When you combine incentives. That is why the only way known to them with those of FRSC, NCDSC, NDLEA and Nigerians to settle problems is through aggresPresidential anti-Kidnap Task Force men, what sion and violence.” you get is something of a security bedlam in This is because nobody, not even the governthose areas. ment, has shown them any better--more deIndeed, there seems to be certain sadistic joy cent and peaceful--way to deal with problems that those who constantly deploy soldiers to that confront them. operate in civilian spaces in peacetime NiThe statutory role of the police in society is to geria derive from seeing these soldiers ride maintain law and order. One very effective roughshod over civilians. In September last way, indeed the only way, to put a check on year, soldiers taking part in an internal secuthe incessant bloody handling of civil matters rity exercise in the South East code-named by the military is for the government to adOperation Python Dance, invaded the country equately train and equip the police to handle home of the leader of the Indigenous People such matters. Even boundary disputes that ofof Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnanmdi Kanu, killing ten result in violent clashes between communisome civilians in the process. The invasion and ties on both sides is and must remain within killings came against the backdrop of peacethe domain of police, riot police specifically, to ful protests by unarmed, cell phone-clutching, handle not the military. bandana-tying members of the IPOB who The government must, therefore, take a second were only demanding the creation of the look at military engagements in civilian space Republic of Biafra out of Nigeria, mouthing with viewing to putting an end to them and anti-government slogans in the process. replacing them with effective police deployApart from the Boko Haram insurgency in the ments. In this way, we would put a stop to the North East, which has since scaled into a incessant harassment, molestation and killing shooting war by Nigeria against antiof civilians by soldiers in unwarranted peaceState Islamists fighting to establish a time civil operations. Nigerian soldiers must theocratic government in the counbe allowed to perform their statutory role try, there is practically no other trouof defending the nation against any external ble spot in Nigeria that requires the aggression. The police must also be allowed to deployment of troops, outside the maintain law and order in society. competence of the police, to deal with it. So, the constant deployment Our Vision of soldiers in civilian space to deal TO BE among the top five newspapers in Nigewith social eruptions in parts of the ria and, in due course, the Numero Uno; to be a country, territory, is an aberration newspaper of records that effectively caters to that has only heightened tensions the information needs of all segments and secin Nigeria and created more distrust tions of the Nigerian society as well as all social between the military and civilian classes and cultures. Essentially, we want to be a populations across the land. responsible corporate citizen, a commercially viIt is difficult to understand the philosophy that undergirds the nation’s able, properly organised media business, which meets its obligations to society, government security deployments. We seem to do things upside down. Where we and the workforce. are supposed to deal with identified and identifiable security threats Mission decisively, we turn supine and treat WE INTEND to contribute to the development such threats with kid gloves; where of an inclusive Nigerian society, with a view to we are supposed to use dialogue to getting rid of the dark sides of our national life deal with a non-security threatening (slothfulness, greed, corruption, nepotism, totalsituation, we turn violent and show itarianism, etc); to continually engender and susso much eagerness to kill a fly with tain national debates that would ultimately lead the sledge hammer. It just does not to the enthronement of healthy national valuesmake sense.

-hard-work, justice, equity and fairplay, transparAs one public affairs commentator put it recently in a social media post: ency, good governance, resulting, in themselves, the egalitarian Nigerian society of our dream. We “We have not solved the problem will give voice to the voiceless and at all times, of Boko Haram and killer herdsmen, strive to be balanced, objective, honest, truthful yet we have used excessive force to and fair to all sides; so that through The Oracle handle the Shiites. If they turn vioToday, our people, the Nigerian people can see lent and start using bombs, we start begging them to embrace peace and a bright light at the end of what has been a very dark tunnel. And we shall do all this in absolute get amnesty. There is no denying that the Shiites can be unruly in their trust in God who blesses good intentions.

25

The Oracle Today Wednesday November 7, 2018

OPINION

APC and countdown to 2019 polls (1)

By Ehichioya Ezomon

I

t’s 109 days from today, Monday, October 29, 2018, to the general elections, beginning with the presidential contest at 8am (Lagos Time) on Saturday, February 16, 2019. Meaning that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has barely three and half months (107 days - till Thursday, February 14) to convince the voters why they should renew its mandate for additional four years in power.

The party can do this by showcasing its government’s achievements in tandem with its stated objectives and promises to Nigerians.

On Wednesday, October 24, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha, put this expectation in perspective.

At a dinner for youth political appointees at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, Mustapha said: “We went into the 2015 elections with promises, but we will go into the 2019 elections with our scorecard.”

The consideration of the set goals, vis-a-vis what the scorecard reveals on the ground, will determine the grade - pass or failure - that the electorate will award the party at the elections, particularly in the presidential balloting.

It doesn’t matter the margin of victory, if the APC is voted back into power. The government it controls would have shown it was able to navigate the difficult periods since May 29, 2015, defined by drastic drop in global oil prices, and low-earned revenue; followed by a 20-month recession that’s only “technically exited,” with continuing worries about a possible relapse into a worse form of eco-

nomic crunch.

While the President Muhammadu Buhari administration still has a breather, in governance, to reshape the minds of sceptics about its performance so far, the platform on which it gained power has no such luxury.

Actually, as at press time, the APC seemed in tatters, aftermath of the primaries for executive and legislative portfolios at the national and state levels. Some 70 lawmakers, who lost their tickets at the primaries, had petitioned the party’s appeal panel that subsequently cleared only six candidates. To demonstrate their anger, scores of the “unsuccessful aspirants” had threatened to defect to other political parties.

The crisis is such that President Buhari reportedly told the party National Chairman, Adams Oshiomhole, to “fix this mess.” If the president used the exact phrase, it shows the magnitude of the problems in the APC, which, by now, should start to visualise its “triumph” in 2019.

Instead, there’s a huge distraction from aggrieved and dissatisfied party members across the states, with many daily storming Abuja to “occupy” the national headquarters of the APC, and intimidate the party hierarchy.

The protesters have two main demands: The National Working Committee (NWC) should rectify alleged anomalies in the governorship and legislative primaries; failing which Oshiomhole should resign his position forthwith.

Obviously, his strategy backfired while trying to ensure a level-playing field for all

aspirants through direct primaries, and he’s slammed by both the powerful sitting/ former governors that accusingly imposed “anointed” candidates, and those they “supplanted,” notably in Zamfara, Ogun, Imo and Rivers States.

But enough of this sabre-rattling, fingerpointing and shadow-boxing that do not bode well for either side. These times call for compromises and not confrontation; unity and not division; mutuality and not mistrust; and accommodation and not rejection.

By the provisions of the relevant laws and guidelines, the APC has an opportunity to substitute candidates, whose names had been sent to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). The party has until November 2 to effect the “needed” changes in the governorship and state legislative positions, provided that those to replace the substituted candidates participated in all processes of the primaries. The exception being the deputy governor’s position, as the hand-picked candidates don’t go through the primaries.

So, in states where there’re disputes over the choice of governorship candidates, both sides should come to a mutually-agreed settlement under the superintendence of the NWC and APC chieftains.

For the position of governor from two parallel primaries, one camp should produce the “acceptable” candidate, and the opposing faction the running mate, unless they are from the same senatorial district. In that case, the latter should be given the choice to nominate the deputy governorship candidate.

For instance, in Zamfara, Governor Abdullaziz Yari and Senator Kabiru Marafa have to decide which camp should produce the candidate and deputy candidate, respectively. Ditto for the camps of Governor Ibikunke Amosun and former Governor Segun Osoba in Ogun; Governor Rochas Okorocha and Senator Hope Uzodima in Imo; and former Governor Rotimi Amaechi and Senator Magnus Abe in Rivers.

And for the legislative positions, the same spirit of “give and take” should prevail, with the consent of those to be substituted sought, and achievable and “satisfactory appeasements” worked out for them. Former Senate President, Ken Nnamani, spoke about the “conflicts” from the primaries, and APC’s efforts to “bring everybody together.”

“We are not asking anybody to go to hell; we are asking them to come together... We are still working on appeasing a number of people so that we can be happy. APC is a national party and we should do everything to integrate our people, so that we can make progress,” Nnamani told State House correspondents after a meeting with President Buhari on Friday, October 26.

With an open mind, and genuine intention to solve the rather intractable problems, the APC should go into the 2019 elections as a united family poised to retain power. Otherwise, it would be a long and lonely night on Election Day! •Mr. Ezomon, journalist and media consultant, writes from Lagos.

How APGA leadership failed Imo people

By KANAYO ESINULO

or sure, the success story, which neighbouring Anambra State rapidly became Funder the All Progressives Grand Alliance,

APGA, with Peter Obi’s administration as the Chief Servant, the people of Imo State started associating what was happening across its borders with the discipline and quality leadership that APGA easily provided. Before his death, Dim Chukwuemeka Odumegwu-Ojukwu the symbol of the party, instilled undiluted discipline, accountability and transparency into the party he was to leave behind. APGA became very attractive to Ndigbo particularly Ndi-Anambra and Ndi-Imo. Anambra State was the first to fall for the APGA aroma, and a once dangerous-to-visit Anambra state became so visibly peaceful, prosperous and immensely attractive to local, international and diaspora investments. Politicians in Imo may have, I suspect, been overwhelmed by the successes in Anambra under a government led by APGA. In the eyes of any politically conscious igbo, APGA bu nke anyi – this particular one is our own. That was the pay-off that Ojukwu awarded to the party at a huge rally in Onitsha, a year or so before he passed on.

Till date, it is generally held in Abia State that Alex Otti of APGA won the governorship election in that state in 2015. In Imo, the weak leadership of the party was willing and prepared to market the APGA brand to the highest bidder and Rochas Ethelbert Okorocha was waiting and ready.

A small deal and some sweetened talk with Okorocha, Martin Agbaso surrendered the APGA party in the state to him and, in the keenly contested and controversial governorship election of that year, 2011, Okorocha was declared the winner. Few years later, he abandoned the party for the All Progressives Congress, APC. APGA in Imo state became an abandoned orphan.

With the dumping of APGA by its own sitting governor, Okorocha, the party in Imo State lost weight and almost became a joke until a recent combined effort of experienced and dedicated political tacticians

with huge experience and exposure, Ikedi Ohakim, Uche Onyeaguocha, Okey Ezeh and others to revive an already prostrate APGA in the state. The fact that there were more than a dozen Governorship aspirants angling for APGA gubernatorial ticket, some of them are definitely solid political actors, both at state and federal levels, proves, if any proof was still needed, that the party had sufficiently recovered from the abandonment and trauma that it suffered when Okorocha suddenly left it in the cold. The primaries for governorship, senatorial, House of Representatives, State Assembly election in 2019, were slated for early October but party delegates who converged at Aladinma Mall for the exercise merely wasted their time and money. Each APGA delegate for governorship primary, for instance, paid the sum of ten thousand Naira, and in the words of a thoroughly disappointed aspirant: “for reasons best known to APGA leaders, they decided to collect ten thousand naira and four thousand five hundred naira from 5,795 members of the party just to stand for delegates election”. It was a huge rip-off and even the bigger parties never extorted and exploited its delegates in such almost criminal manner.

In a story I wrote some weeks ago where I tried to review the possibility of APGA taking Imo State in 2019, I slightly insinuated that the number of governorship aspirants in Imo APGA was too windy, although I acknowledged that the more they are, the merrier, and I went ahead to suggest that if the party was to win Imo State and save our trapped people from the hands of Rochas Okorocha and his crowd, the idea of choosing a consensus candidate for the governorship election in 2019 should be considered a viable option, tabled, honestly discussed and agreed on. I suggested an Ikedi Ohakim/Okey Ezeh ticket or any other winning combination that could halt Okorocha’s camouflaged third-term bid through a proxy. In making the honest suggestion, I had the famous Imo Equity Formula in mind. But it became clear that the political virus that struck the party in 2011,

when Okorocha breezed into Imo APGA, seized it, overwhelmed its leadership at both state and national levels, and successfully paid his way to become its candidate had started rearing its ugly head once again.

The sudden migration of Ifeanyi Ararume, until few weeks ago, an APC chieftain in the state, signaled a political complication that the party is now suffering from in Imo State. The alleged accommodation of the Ararume persona and his known moneyspeaks-for-me style of politics by both state and national leadership of APGA meant that even if there were no primaries, as indeed happened, the highest bidder would be announced as the winner and the party ticket handed to him on a platter. And that was exactly what happened. AS I write this, the party that many thought would rescue the people of Imo State from Okorocha has failed to understand the importance of party unity at this time, and the need for transparency in the choice of the party’s flag bearers at all levels. The national and state leadership of the party blew an historic opportunity to guide the party to victory in Imo State.

The case of Governor Willie Obiano, the only serving and sitting APGA Governor in Nigeria, is more worrisome, even tragic. He failed woefully to provide leadership when it was needed most. For instance, he failed woefully to protect Mrs Bianca Ojukwu from locusts and money bags when the widow of our political struggle for liberation needed to be protected from the ravages of rascality, Willie Obiano looked the other way – the National Leader of the party and Chairman of its Board of Trustees.

The consequence is that Willie Obiano could not also rescue a neighbouring Imo State from a rampaging new comer whose known mission is to internally disorganize APGA in Imo and pave way for it to fail. It was a classic case of the tragedy of leadership. Obviously, trapped since May 2011 by the Okorocha contrivances, Imo state has been in serious need of rescue but the party they had heaped their entire hopes on, APGA, nea bu nke anyi (this one is our

own) seem to have left them in a lurch. In Owerri, the belief is rife that that an Aguleri Mafia led by Obiano was part of the conspiracy for APGA to fail in Imo State. I fail to understand, sometimes, why someone like Willie Obiano would refuse to be part of an unfolding history, but instead prefer the cosmetics and the inanities that opportunism offers and parades.

Let it be known that there were no primaries in APGA in Imo State, at all levels. It is painful but true. If this is the best that Willie Obiano and Victor Oye can organize and supervise in the name of party primaries in my state, then APGA, as a political party, is in serious need of surgery, if it must survive. . Its days as a political party of hope and an institution left behind by the hero of our political struggles in Nigeria seen numbered. It can be painful.

•Esinulo is a Journalist.

THE GROUP Managing Director/Editor-in-Chief Ikeddy Isiguzo Editor Felix Oguejiofor Abugu Deputy Editor/Head, Lagos Bureau Sopuruchi Onwuka Head, Graphics & Designs Nnamdi Alex Chukwu Circulation Manager Felix Oti

The Oracle Today Wednesday November 7, 2018

Travel & Hospitality

26

Funding, key to unlocking Nigeria’s hotel pipeline – Expert Stories by VICTOR NZE

T

HE rapid expansion in the number of hotel rooms, or keys as it is known in the business, in Nigeria is an indication of a growing economy and favourable investment climate, according to host of the West African Property Investment (WAPI) Summit & Expo, Kfir Rusin.

The hospitality expert further posited that with more than 9,603 rooms across 57 hotels planned by the world’s leading hotel brands, including the Marriott, Radisson, AccorHotels, and others, the country has many developers, investors and operators queuing up to strike deals across the country.

This is also as another expert, Abi Adisa, expressed the belief that the rise in crude oil prices could see a return to the country of operating firms which in turn can trigger boom for the real estate and hotel sectors.

Speaking ahead of the WAPI Summit on 15 and 16 November taking place in Lagos, Ward the managing director of W Hospitality Group, says its Nigeria’s obvious scale and increasing economic sophistication that is fuelling expansion.

“Nigeria has by far the largest pipeline in West Africa, with Lagos and Abuja leading the charge. Adding that, “As a megacity, Lagos’ economic diversification, improving infrastructure of an international airport and deep-sea ports are all factors driving hotel growth.”

Despite this transaction-heavy and deal-making environment over the past few years, the challenge according to Ward is transforming these deals into real rooms, which cater across a broad economic demographic from affordable to high end.

“The reality is that only 4,000 of these hotel rooms are under construction,” says Ward. The paradox is that while deals have been signed between operators and developers, the funding environment remains compressed and the biggest challenge to overcome. This is despite the presence of global operators like Hilton, Marriott, and the Radisson rapidly expanding their footprint, but primarily focused on the top end of the market.

Continuing, Ward said: “There is no shortage of projects and developers, it is the finance that is in

short supply. It is inconceivable that all the projects in the pipeline could be funded – if they were, and were built, there would be chronic oversupply.”

According to Ward, current demand is concentrated in the business and Meetings Incentives Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) sectors, but the biggest opportunity is the economy or mid-scale markets. However, despite the potential offered by the economy or mid-scale market, international brands are focussed on the high end of the market with smaller brands like South Africa’s Peermont, Southern Sun, City Lodge are “making waves”.

In such an environment, one emerging segment of the hospitality industry poised to break out is serviced apartments.

As Ward explains, “It’s (serviced apartments) coming, but it is slow, even though every major city in Africa has demand for the product.”

In the same vein, the Chief Executive Officer and Co-Founder of Amara Suites, Lagos’ first serviced apartment providers, Abi Adisa, measures a marked increase in business confidence post-recession in the light of a $70+ oil price.

“We see Oil and Gas service companies returning to Lagos. A constant has been the Fast-Moving Consumer Goods companies focused on the increasing size of the middle class.”

And while the product is relatively new and untested in the West Africa market says Ward with just a handful of operations, Adisa believes serviced apartments are perfect for Africa’s fast-growing economies and urban future.

“Serviced apartments are ideally suited for African markets. Significant business traffic headed to Africa is for extended stays, and it’s not easy to get here. Folks also tend to stay longer to close on deals or execute projects and we are more flexible and cost-effective than hotels.”

Despite Adisa’s bullish optimism, the sector is not immune to economic pressures and Nigeria’s upcoming electoral period, which he says will result in a softening of the market and then a spike in demand.

“Medium-term, as West Africa becomes a focus for international businesses there is going to be a significant increase in demand, and

especially the demand for branded serviced apartments with a multicity, multi-country reach.”

In such an unfolding environment, tech advances such as Airbnb can grow the business and highlights the flexibility which branded serviced apartments have over their competitors.

As Adisa says, “Airbnb’s presence has increased the credibility of the product as an option for many users.” Adding that, “We definitely do less education about what the serviced apartment product is these days. Corporates, diaspora and locals are increasingly requesting for the product. Any hesitation

F

(ECOWAS) who can enter Nigeria and reside in the country without entry visas.

The document, which was obtained from the Ministry, indicated that a non-ECOWAS visitor who intended to stay in Nigeria for a period exceeding 56 days, but not beyond 90 days aggregate would be sanctioned with a few of $200 or the naira equivalent.

For a non-EWCOWAS visitor who stayed in Nigeria beyond 90 days, but not exceeding 180 days aggregate would be sanctioned with the sum of $1000 or its naira equivalent.

Besides, any non-ECOWAS visitor who intended to stay in Nigeria or who stayed for a period exceeding 180 days, but not beyond 365 days aggregate in the country would pay to the government the sum of $2000 or its equivalent.

Also, any non-ECOWAS visitor

and no longer seen as a niche in the West.”

As Rusin concludes, “The opportunity in Nigeria for hotels is significant, but funding has remained challenging. This year, our hotel sessions will feature many international operators like the Radisson and Hilton together with industry experts such as Trevor Ward, JLL’s Xander Nijnens and innovators like Abi Adisa.

As the region’s largest and most concentrated gathering of local and regional real estate developers and investors, we believe that this year’s WAPI Summit will provide the platform for industry stakeholders to unlock the country’s hotel pipeline.”

• Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, (second left); Acting Director General of the National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM), Mr. Abdulkarim Kadiri (extreme left); President of the Latin America Motorcyclists Association (LAMA), Mr. Mario Nieves (second right) and the Special Assistant to the President attached to the Minister’s Office, Mr. Segun Adeyemi (extreme right) in Abuja, when the association visited the Minister, Monday, ahead of its tour of heritage sites and museums across the country.

FG’s Visa-On-Arrival policy boosts tourism – Minister M INISTER of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, has said the Federal Government’s Visa-OnArrival Policy has started yielding dividends, especially in the tourism sector, with an increased growth in inbound traffic.

The Minister made the assertion in Abuja on Monday, when he received members of the Latin America Motorcyclists Asso-

FG moves to sanction ‘overstay’ visitors with fines EDERAL Government has commenced a new sanction regime against visitors who ‘overstay’ in the country without the necessary approval.

The new sanction becomes necessary in a bid to monitor movements of foreigners in the country.

The sanction, which depends on the number of days such a foreigner overstayed in the country, ranges from $200 (N72,000) to $4000 (N.18m), depending on the number of days such a foreigner stayed in Nigeria.

A document signed by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Interior indicated that a foreigner would be adjudged to have overstayed in the country once such exceeded 56 days.

However, the sanction does not apply to citizens of Economy Community of West African States

at the moment in uptake due to the limited brand presence in the market compared to availability of global hotel brands in the region.”

The limited availability is something Adisa believes will soon change as more investors look to invest in line with global trends and greater profitability in serviced apartments.

“It’s only matter of time before we see dedicated investments in the space especially given the interest in real estate in general and the higher yields branded serviced apartment properties generate. It also helps that serviced apartments are now mainstream real estate investments

who overstayed in the country without authorization or regularization would, in addition pay penalty equivalent of $4000.

However, it was gathered that several foreigners especially from China, Malaysia and Indonesia had been sanctioned by the government for violating the orders.

At the international airports nationwide, it gathered that the government gave the services to a private firm, CONTEC Services, which collects the charges on behalf of the Nigeria Immigration Services (NIS).

It was observed that rather than such affected foreigner to pay the sum to immigration officers, the concessionaire, CONTEC, sanctioned such visitor with the sums, depending on the offence while a receipt or teller is issued to immigration services for record purposes.

ciation (LAMA), who were in Nigeria for a tour of heritage sites and other tourist attractions in the country. ‘’All our visitors here today got visa on arrival. That shows that the Federal Government’s visaon-arrival policy is working,’’ he said.

Alhaji Mohammed said the presence of the international bikers in Nigeria is a testimony to the fact that the Administration’s quest to promote the country’s cultural heritage and tourism sites is yielding fruits. ‘’As you tour Nigeria, under the ‘Rediscover Heritage Bikers Tour of Nigeria’, and visit historical heritage sites, you beam the searchlight on those sites for the world to see.

“You will see these heritage sites for yourselves as you travel through our culturally-rich and diverse nation. These sites include museums, monuments, homes of national heroes and other tourist sites,” he said.

The Minister therefore enlisted the support of the bikers to become Nigeria’s heritage ambassadors by spreading the news of the country’s hidden treasures and their experiences while in the country.

In his remarks, the President of LAMA, Mr. Mario Nieves, said

the group, which consists of members from 24 countries, is in Nigeria to rediscover the country’s culture and heritage as well as promote unity among the human race.

“We are just a group of humble motorcyclists that decided to arrange and create some type of impact in our society. We believe that it is more important to be human than it is to be black or white or oriental or Indian, because we belong to the human race and we believe that we are all one people,” he said.

Mr. Nieves said Nigeria has set a good example for them in humility, respect and hospitality, and that when they return to their respective countries, they will spread the good news about Nigeria.

While giving a background on the tour, the Acting Director General of the National Commission for Museums and Monuments, Mr. Abdulkarim Kadiri, said the bikers, from Brazil, United States and Mexico, among others, and their Nigerian counterparts will tour 11 states of the Federation in order to rediscover Nigeria and its rich cultural heritage.

She, however, called on the Federal Government to play its role in moving the travels and tours industry to the next level.

27

The Oracle Today Wednesday November 7, 2018

AVIATION Indonesian airliner plunged at 300mph before crashing into sea – Report Stories by VICTOR NZE

T

HE Indonesian airliner that crashed Monday in waters near Jakarta was plunging at hundreds of miles an hour in its final seconds, according to preliminary data transmitted by the plane that could aid investigators looking for a cause.

Lion Air Flight JT610, a nearly new Boeing Co. 737 Max jet, went down from 4,850 feet (1,479 meters) altitude in just 21 seconds, according to data compiled by FlightRadar24, a flight-tracking system. The plane was carrying 189 people and all are feared dead.

A routine descent for an airliner would be about 1,500 to 2,000 feet per minute, said John Cox, the president of the consulting company Safety Operating Systems who has participated in numerous crash investigations. The final data point obtained by FlightRadar24 showed the plane descending at 30,976 feet

per minute, meaning it was moving downward at about 350 miles an hour. Such speeds are typical of midrange flight speeds, but unheard of for a descent.

“This thing really comes unglued,” Cox said, adding: “The numbers are barely believable.”

Even as the FlightRadar24’s track of the flight raises as many questions as it answers, it further shows the plane rising and climbing repeatedly with the speed also varying, both of which aren’t typical on the latest, computer-driven aircraft. Multiple failures involving the crew and equipment on the plane are possible explanations, from an erroneous speed indication to some sort of electronic failure.

Shortly after takeoff from Jakarta, one of the plane’s pilots requested permission to return to the airport, indicating the crew may have been struggling with some type of failure.

The limited and sometimes contradictory information about the flight

doesn’t obviously match any previous accidents, making it difficult to narrow down the possible cause, said Steve Wallace, the former head of accident investigations at the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration.

“I have no most likely scenario in my head for this accident,” Wallace said.

Cox said the data, which are generated by the plane’s own systems and transmitted to ground stations, should be approached with caution at this early stage of the inves-

tigation. For example, even in cases when planes plunge to the ground, the descent speed isn’t typically as high as the Lion Air readings, he said.

Still, there is little doubt that the plane experienced a rapid and violent fall in the final seconds, he said.

“Considering that an aircraft’s speed is measured in multiple ways by overlapping systems on the plane, it won’t be until investigators retrieve the plane’s crash-proof flight recorders that they can determine what happened,” he said.

On a newly built plane such as the 737 Max, the plane’s flight recorder will store thousands of parameters of data. Similarly, the cockpit-sound recorder will have the latest digital technology and should be capable of capturing the previous two hours of cockpit activity. The devices also should be relatively easy to find since the plane is in relatively shallow water.

“The flight and voice recorders will be absolutely essential,” Wallace added.

Air Peace excites customers with 4th anniversary gifts

A

IR Peace on Wednesday wove the celebration of the fourth anniversary of its flight operations around rewarding the loyalty of its customers with gifts ranging from free tickets to souvenirs and improved inflight refreshment.

In a related development, members of the flying public and aviation players have commended the carrier for leading efforts to transform air travel in Nigeria and the West Coast of Africa.

A statement signed by the Chief Operating Officer, Mrs. Oluwatoyin Olajide said the airline centred the celebration of the fourth anniversary of its flight operations on members of the flying public as a mark of the premium it placed on them as the core of its business.

“Running an airline anywhere around the world is quite a challenge. But our wonderful guests have made the four years of our flight operations a very pleasant experience. From seven aircraft and five routes at launch of our operations on October 24, 2014, our valued guests have supported us all the way to the top spot of the aviation business in Nigeria and the West Coast of Africa. Today, we operate into 14 domestic and five regional destinations, with plans for the launch of our long-haul flights to Dubai, Sharjah, London, Houston, GuangzhouChina, Mumbai and Johannesburg nearing completion. From seven aircraft at launch, we now have a fleet of over 24 aircraft, excluding the 10 brand new Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft we recently ordered.

“In four years, we have scored a number of firsts and set a multitude of records in the aviation industry in Nigeria and the West Coast of Africa, including the acquisition as well as registration of Nigeria’s first Boeing 777 and setting up of a subsidiary, Air Peace Hopper to organise our effort to seamlessly connect unserved and underserved domestic and regional routes under our no-city-leftbehind project.

“On the economic front, we have created thousands of direct and indirect jobs for members of the public without discrimination on the bases of gender, religion, creed and tribe. We have done

a whole lot in unifying Nigeria through air travel and positively impacted the economies of the country and its regional counterparts.

“All this would have been impossible without the patronage, support and loyalty of our valued customers. That was why we decided that our fourth anniversary be devoted to celebrating them. We see a very bright future and we assure of better days ahead for members of the flying public as we continue to strive for greater ways of delivering safe, comfortable and exception flight services,” the statement said.

The airline, it was gathered, gave passengers who flew on its fourth anniversary gifts, including power banks, bluetooth speakers, USB flash drives and pens. The airline also allocated a number of free tickets to be won by its customers and members of the public participating in its social media engagements. The airline, reports said, also raised the quality of refreshment served on its flights.

Meanwhile, some stakeholders have commended Air Peace for distinguishing itself through the delivery of exceptional flight services in Nigeria and West Africa.

Speaking on the flight operations of Air Peace, Senator Chris Adighije and Sir Jude Ejiogu, who were on the airline’s Owerri-Abuja service on Wednesday, said it had acquitted itself creditably despite the difficulties of running an airline.

Also, the Nigerian Aviation Handling Company Plc (NAHCO) praised the Chairman of Air Peace, Mr. Allen Onyema and his team for working tirelessly to transform air travel in Nigeria.

In a letter signed by the Chairman of the Board of Directors of NAHCO, Arc Usman Arabi Bello and addressed to Air Peace chairman, the company said: “We congratulate you on four years of non-stop and consistent flying activities, which have seen Air Peace grow its fleet, routes and frequencies within and outside Nigeria.

“This growth is a clear testament of the resilience of the Air Peace Team and manifestation of your efforts to transform air travel in Nigeria.”

•(From right): Managing Director/CEO, Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Engr. Saleh Dunoma; Minister of State, Aviation, Sen. Hadi Sirika; Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike; Minister of Employment and Labour, Chief Chris Ngige; and President Muhammadu Buhari, who commissioned the newly remodeled Port-Harcourt International Airport New Terminal, Omagwa, in Rivers State, Thursday.

New P/H Int’l terminal: Olowo, Uko, others laud FG

A

VIATION stakeholders have continued to laud the Federal Government over the completed new International Terminal of the Port Harcourt International Airport, Omagwa, Rivers State.

It would be recalled that President Muhammadu Buhari , along with the Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, as well as some government functionaries, had Thursday, inaugurated the terminal which was built by the China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation.

Reacting to this development, President, Aviation Round Table (ART), Mr Gbenga Olowo, said Nigeria deserved to have world class airport facilities like its contemporaries across the globe to ease passenger facilitation.

“We are happy that the terminal has been opened by the president. However, we are concerned about the issue of maintenance. We hope that it will not be treated like the Murtala Muhammed Airport, Lagos.

“When you build a facility like this, there is what is called routine and scheduled maintenance that must be adhered to strictly to make it effective and efficient.

“I want to recommend that the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), as the regulator of the industry, should put its eyes on our aviation facilities.

“We don’t want to arrive at that airport in six months’ time

and discover that everything have broken down due to lack of maintenance,” he said.

Olowo noted that the ART’s position had always been that the government monopoly has impeded the efficiency of Nigerian airports.

He said the government had been making plans to concession the major airports in Nigeria, adding that the plans should be accelerated to make them more effective.

Also speaking, Calabar International Carnival Consultant, Mr Ikechi Uko, said the opening of the terminal was a welcome development to Nigerians. ”It is a good thing because we have finally removed Port Harcourt as the worst airport in the world. I think it should not just be the international wing alone because we only have Lufthansa and Air France that are operating there but something should be done about the local wing, too.”

He noted that as the biggest economy in Africa, Nigeria should be boasting of world class airports because it was the first contact people do have with the country.

“Our airports have to be if not the best but one of the best. I am happy with the fact that they have completed the Port Harcourt terminal.

“Focus should now be on that of Lagos, Abuja and Kano,” Uko, who is the promoter of the Akwaaba African Travel Market said.

Similarly, Capt. Folu Oladipo,

commended the past and current administrations for initiating and completing the project.

“While these are significant advancements, we have to acknowledge that we are still lagging behind in West Africa compared to recently completed projects in Accra and Dakar.

“We definitely have a long way to go to being a global player, but I have no doubt we have what it takes,” Oladipo said.

Arik Air resumes Warri operations

A

RIK Air is set to resume flight operations to Osubi Airport, Warri with effect from Friday, October 26, 2018 following the reopening of the Airport closed on September 3, 2018 by the Nigeria Airspace Management Agency (NAMA).

Arik Air operates two daily flights from Lagos to Warri and one flight from Abuja to Warri. All the flights into Osubi are resuming same day.

The airline, according to its chief executive officer, Captain Roy Ilegbodu, is pleased to welcome passengers back on the LagosWarri and Abuja-Warri routes with a promise of on-time departures and great customer experience.

Arik Air recently launched its Mobile App to further boost customer experience. Free to download on Google Play store and IOS App Store, the app presents consumers with an intuitive, easy-to-use interface.

28

The Oracle Today Wednesday November 7, 2018

INSURANCE & PENSION PenCom unveils guidelines on voluntary contributions under CPS

Stories by VICTOR NZE

N

ATIONAL Pension Commission (PenCom) has issued new guidelines to regulate the operation of Voluntary Pension Contributions (VPC) under the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS).

PenCom Head of Corporate Communications, Mr Peter Aghahowa, said in the statement on Friday that under the guidelines, voluntary contributions should be nonobligatory contributions made by any employee in the formal sector through the employer.

The Pension Reform Act (PRA) 2014 allows employees to make voluntary contributions into their Retirement Savings Account (RSA) in addition to their mandatory pension contributions to enhance their retirement benefits.

Aghahowa said the objective of the guidelines was to establish uniform set of rules for the operation of VPC and eligibility criteria for participation in the contributions.

He said the guidelines were meant to provide the procedure

for making voluntary pension contributions as well as necessary safeguards and modalities for withdrawals.

Aghahowa said another objective of the guidelines was to use voluntary pension contributions for the purpose of enhancing future retirement benefits for active or mandatory contributors.

He said the guideline was to encourage retirees under CPS to utilise part or all of the voluntary contributions to augment their existing pension.

The PenCom spokesperson said the voluntary pension contribution would assist retirees under defunct Defined Benefit Scheme (DBS), exempted persons from the CPS and foreigners to save in order to cater for their livelihood during old age.

“The commission hereby reminds contributors to be guided by the guidelines and encourage them to direct all their inquiries pertaining the voluntary pension contributions to their respective Pension Fund Administrators (PFA),’’ Aghahowa said.

PTAD pays benefits of 338 NOKs of deceased civil service pensioners

T

HE Pension Transitional Arrangement Directorate (PTAD), says it paid N279 million to 338 Next -of – Kins (NOKs) of deceased civil service pensioners under the Defined Benefit Scheme (DBS).

A statement issued by the management of PTAD in Abuja, Monday, said the NOKs were beneficiaries of the deceased civil service pensioners who have completed the process of documentation.

The directorate also said the

NOKs had also been cleared for payment by the Federal Auditors.

PTAD said the timely payment of the NOKs became possible because of diligent verification conducted by the directorate to authenticate genuine NOK s before payment was made.

PTAD advised members of the public to check the comprehensive list of NOKs that received payment on Thisday and Leadership newspapers of October 29 and 30 respectively.

Premium Pension’s payments to retirees hit N86bn

P

remium Pension Ltd., a Pension Fund Administrator (PFA), Sunday said it had paid N86 billion to pensioners under its scheme as at September.

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the outfit, Mr Umar Mairami, who announced this in Lagos, said that the transparent policy of the PFA mandated it to disclose the payments quarterly.

He also said that the feedbacks from clients indicated to the PFA that the gesture was impactful, attracted more clients and helped the company to optimise its performances.

According to him, the figure represents 18 per cent of the total pensions paid in the industry.

“As part of the company’s strength, the figure also accounted for over 10 per cent of the total pension industry’s Programmed Withdrawal,” he said.

He further said the company’s Assets Under Management (AUM) grew by 13.7 per cent to N648.09 billion in September from N570 billion recorded in June.

“The company’s Return On Investment (ROI) for Retirement Saving Accounts (RSAs) holders moved to 4.00 in September

from 3.69 and 3.97 achieved in January and June respectively, in spite of economic instability,” he said.

He emphasised that the company ensured efficient payments system, as seamless as possible, with necessary risk controls.

The PFA boss said the risk control was to prevent fraudulent activities under the new Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS).

“In a drive to ensure continuous efficiency, the company adopted two International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO) management systems.

“Specifically, ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management System (QMS) and ISO 2700: 2013 Information Security Management System (ISMS),” he said.

He further revealed that the firm set a five-year strategic plans to enable it to become one of the top five pension outfits.

“The plans include extensive branching network, Retirees are Kings and Queens (RaKQ) Integrity, transparency, Ethics and Professionalism,” he added.

He also said the company was fully prepared for the take-off of micro pension scheme to enable Nigerians that were not in formal sector to enjoy its services.

(From left): Company Secretary/Legal Adviser, Mrs. Femi Onoru; Chairman of the company, Sen. (Prof.) Jonathan Silas Zwingina and Managing Director/CEO of the company, Glory Etaduovie during the company’s 6th Annual General Meeting held in Abuja.

Imo health insurance scheme soon to take-off – Okorocha

G

OVERNOR Rochas Okorocha of Imo has announced N250 million as the start-up capital for health insurance scheme in the state.He described health insurance scheme as a necessity for quality life and should be embraced by individuals, governments, and corporate organisations.

Okorocha made the announcement at the official flag-off ceremony of Imo State Health Insurance Scheme (IMSHIS) held at the Trade and Investment Centre, Owerri.

The flag-off was at the instance of the Imo State Ministry of Health in collaboration with the World Health Organisation (WHO).

The governor said the health insurance scheme would enable one to access health care services at all times as somebody somewhere had already paid for the services and urged all to embrace it.

He described health sector as one of the key social infrastructure which provided the pivot on which life of the people and their environment revolved.

“Health and education are interwoven. Health is key to the existence of human beings, yet people pay very little attention to this aspect of life.

“One of the health challenges in the state is health education. If you eat right, live in a clean environment, do a little bit of exercise with enough rest, you have a good health, yet majority of people neglect these areas,” he said.

Okorocha said the programme would be taken to the grassroots as it was needed by the down trodden.

“There are diseases the people, the family cannot carry, but which could be handled by these scheme.

“Imo government knew the im-

portance of health, hence we built the Imo Foundation, the Ochiedike Diagnostic Centre and the 27 general hospitals in the state for the helath benefit of the people,” he said.

Minister of Health, Prof. Isaac Adewole, represented by the Chief Medical Director of the Federal Medical Centre, Owerri, Dr Kinsgley Ashiegbu, described the take-off of the scheme as an epoch making event which would redefine health care in Imo. He said the programme would impact on the human development indices of the state, create employment and wealth.

The minister promised to give it all the necessary support for it to succeed.

The WHO Country Representative, Dr Wondimagegnehu Alemu, also commended the state government for the launch of the scheme.

He said it would help protect the population of the country and ensure that the best primary health care was provided with subsidy for the poor who would not be able to pay.

State Commissioner for Health, Dr Angela Uwakwen, expressed appreciation to the state government and WHO for making the programme launch a reality.

She said that with the flag-off of the scheme, qualitative and affordable health care for Imo citizens were set for full realisation and enjoined the people to key into it as some hospitals would be accredited for the purpose.

Executive Secretary, Imo State Health Insurance Agency (IMSHIA), Mr John Onyeokoro, said that increased investment in health and human capital development were drivers of economic development.

He described Universal Health

Coverage (UHC) as a well thought out strategy by the Federal Government to achieve improvement in the health of the greater number of Nigerians as well as citizens of other nations.

He said the Presidential Summit on UHC, held in March 2014 in Abuja, laid the foundation for the ongoing focused actions directed towards empowering states to develop social health insurance.

Onyeokoro said the state governor had signed the Imo State Health Insurance Law in April 2018 which provided for a mandatory health insurance scheme for every person resident in the state.

“Health insurance is the best way to keep ordinary Nigerians out of poverty through the guarantee of basic quality healthcare services for a minimum fee.

“The World Health Organisation is currently supporting the state to develop a system of State Health Accounts to empirically guide us in the development of appropriate technical tools needful for the smooth implementation of the scheme,” he said.

Onyeokoro said the agency would soon intensify a statewide stakeholders sensitization and public awareness to enlighten the general populace on the importance of the scheme.

South East Zonal Coordinator of National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), Mrs Chinasa Agwunobi, commended the Imo government for keying into the programme, which she said, would ensure that the state benefited from the N5 billion mapped out for the scheme.

She urged all concerned to give attention to the scheme for its survival, adding that “health insurance is the way to go as the government alone cannot carry the burden of quality health for the people.” (

29

The Oracle Today Wednesday November 7, 2018

INSURANCE & PENSION

NAICOM suspends recapitalisation of insurance firms Stories by VICTOR NZE

T

HE implementation of Tierbased Minimum Solvency Capital policy for insurance companies operating in Nigeria has been suspended by the industry’s regulator, National Insurance Commission (NAICOM).

This information was made known

by NAICOM in a circular to all insurance institutions titled Update on the implementation of the Tier-based Minimum Solvency Capital policy for insurance companies in Nigeria.

The policy, also known as the recapitalisation of the industry, put insurance firms into three categories based on their capital base.

Tier 1 insurance companies are required to have minimum capital base of N9 billion for general insurance and N6 billion for life insurance, implying a composite capital base of N15 billion.

Tier 2 companies are divided into two categories, with N4.5 billion minimum capital base for general insurance and N3 billion for life assurance.

Thus a composite insurance-general and life insurance, will be required to have minimum capital base of N7.5 billion.

Tier 3 companies will continue to operate on the existing minimum capital base of N3 billion for general insurance and N2 billion for life insurance, implying a composite capital base of N5 billion for a composite tier 3 insurance company.

Under the risk-based capitalisation approach, tier 1 companies will be able to undertake all risks including annuity and high-level special risks such as energy and aviation risks.

Tier 2 companies will undertake retail insurance as prescribed under Tier 1, including commercial and industrial risks and group life assurance while tier 3 companies will only be able to write retail insurance only including micro insurance, motor, fire, agriculture, compulsory liability insurances, individual life, health and miscellaneous insurance.

The new scheme was to take effect this month, but the regulatory agency has asked insurance companies to continue with the subsisting regula-

tory framework prior to the circular.

This, NAICOM explained, was due to a court order directing the regulator to suspend implementation of the policy.

Some stakeholders in the sector had approached the court to halt the scheme, claiming the timing was not right.

Justice Muslim Hassan had in September 2018, gave the order in a class action brought by the shareholders restraining NAICOM from enforcing the TBMSC policy, pending the expiration of the 30-day pre-action notice dated September 4, 2018.

In the circular, NAICOM said: “In compliance with the extant rules and injunction issued by the Federal High Court regarding the tier-based minimum solvency capital framework, which was to take effect from October 1, 2018, the commission wishes to clarify that the status quo will be maintained and insurers are to continue to operate on the subsisting regulatory framework prior to the circular.”

Meanwhile, a Federal High Court sitting in Lagos, on Monday ordered that the interim injunction placed on National Insurance Commission (NAICOM) from implementing Tier-Based Minimum Solvency Capital, (TBMSC), shall continue in force until NAICOM brings an application to the court to set it aside.

Hon. Justice Ayo Emmanuel held that until the time the court will consider whether it should be set aside or remain until the end of the suit.

Sir Nnamdi Nwosu and Seven others shareholders had last month filed an application to stop NAICOM from implementing Tier-Based Minimum Solvency Capital, (TBMSC).

The court then gave a directive that NAICOM should put on hold its proposed minimum solvency capital policy for insurers in the country until after the expiration of 30 days pre action notice shareholders of insurance companies served the commission on the 6th of September, 2018.

The case with suit no 1483 of 2018 FHC/L/CS/ 1483/18 was later adjourned today to December 10, 2018.

Following the court order the commission last week implored insurance

companies to continue to operate on subsisting regulatory framework prior to the issuance of the circular on Tier-Based Minimum Solvency Capital (TBMSC).

The insurance industry regulator, stated this in a circular tagged, Update on the Implementation of the Tier-Based Minimum Solvency Capital Policy for insurance Companies in Nigeria, signed by Director, Authorization and Policy, NAICOM, Leonard Akah.

NAICOM noted that in compliance with the extant rules and the injunction issued by the Federal High Court regarding the TBMSC framework which was to take effect from October 1, 2018, it wishes to clarify that the status quo will be maintained and that insurers are to continue to operate on subsisting regulatory framework prior to the circular.

It maintained that appropriate regulatory directive would be advised upon conclusion of the suit.

P

first batch. So, now we have collated all the information in one place from the three centres. The system is now sieving out those with multiple verification.

“One of such persons, whom I am aware of, said he did not trust the verification he did in Kano and that was why he did another one in Lagos.”

According to him, PICA is being careful not to make the mistake of paying some of the beneficiaries more than once.

“As at today (Monday), the consultant is back in Abuja and we are ensuring that the verified persons are paid as soon as possible. We want to send the names to the Office of the Account General in batches of 1,000.

“Over 5,000 persons were verified and once we eliminate the multiple verification, everybody will be paid before the end of the week,” he said.

Waitono, who was the coordinator of the verification exercise at the Lagos centre, disclosed that it was concluded on Sunday, adding that the equipment had been sent

the tier 1 category are expected to increase their capitalisation from N5 billion to N15 billion.

The TBMSC structure is a complementary measure to the ongoing implementation of the Risk-Based Supervision, RBS, programme. It is a three level model which specifies capital requirement for each tier based on their respective risk classification.

Tier-3 of the TBMSC stipulates that companies will operate on the existing minimum paid up capital of N2 billion for life, N3 billion for non-life and N5 billion for composite underwriters. Life companies will only be permitted to underwrite individual life policy, health insurance, and miscellaneous insurances.

Non-life companies will only underwrite fire, motor, engineering (only classes covered by compulsory insurance), general accident, agriculture and miscellaneous insurances.

•(From left): Executive Director, Business Development (North) & Investment, Kabir A. Tijjani; Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Umar Sanda Mairami; Executive Director, Kemi Oluwashine, and Head Corporate Communications, Aliyu Mohammed Ali, during a media briefing in its Lagos Island regional office.

Multiple verification mars payment of ex-N’Airways workers’ entitlements

RESIDENTIAL Initiative on Continuous Audit (PICA) has said that payment of the approved N22. 6 billion entitlements to ex-workers of the defunct Nigeria Airways Ltd., was halted due to multiple verification by some of the beneficiaries.

Deputy Director, PICA, Mr John Waitono, made the disclosure in Monday in Lagos.

The verification exercise for the ex-workers of the former national carrier took place from October 15 to 28 across three centres in Lagos, Kano and Enugu.

Waitono said PICA had planned to start the payment of already verified pensioners in batches of 1,000 but had to halt the disbursement after it was discovered that some of the beneficiaries were verified in more than one location.

“What happened was that the first batch was to commence payment but when we went through the system, we discovered that some persons have done the same exercise in Enugu and Lagos or Kano and Lagos.

“We now started sorting them out and that is what delayed the

NAICOM had on August 2018 announced that the insurance companies Tier-based recapitalisation commencement date to October 1, as against January 1, 2019 it earlier announced in the month of July.

According to the commission the new cicular mandated all insurance companies to recapitalise and communicate to NAICOM the tier they intended to play in before October 1.

The commission noted that only companies that meet the respective tier requirements shall lead on new businesses in those categories with effect from October 1.

“Companies shall be assessed, in the first instance, on their approved financial statement for 2017, and audited half year account for 2018.

“However, where a company is yet to obtain approval for its 2017 financial statement, its last approved audited accounts will be used for the assessment.” NAN reports that underwriters interested to play in

back to Abuja.

“The few cases we left behind were those still processing their letters of administration in court.

“Also, there are some families involved in litigation over the beneficiaries and we have allowed them to go and sort themselves out legally before coming for the exercise,” he said.

AfDB unveils $500m insurance deal

A

$500 million credit insurance deal has been signed between the African Development Bank (AfDB) and African Trade Insurance Agency (ATI).

This transaction is expected to have an important demonstration effect to encourage similar institutions to invest more on the continent in the future.

While ATI will be the direct insurer facing the African Development Bank, the transaction involves the participation of a number of Lloyd’s

Emmanuel settles 2015 gratuity of workers

A

KWA Ibom State Governor, Mr. Udom Emmanuel has released money for the payment of gratuity to retired civil servants in the State.

Accountant General of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Uwem Andrew- Essien in a letter made available to journalists in his office indicates that the money is for the payment of 306 retired civil servants who were scheduled for December, 2015 gratuity.

Within the year, Pastor AndrewEssien disclosed that Government has equally paid staff salary arrears to 1, 227 workers, pension arrears to 4,304 pensioners as well as 2015 employment arrears to 2, 249 civil serv-

ants.

The Accountant General stated with the completion of the payment of 2015 gratuity, the State Government has commenced the compilation of names of civil servants who retired in 2016, saying payment is done in batches in view of the huge amount involved.

He maintained that as a Government responsible and committed to the well-being of her citizenry, all entitlements to civil servants both serving and retired would continue to remain a priority of the Governor Udom Emmanuel led administration.

Pastor Andrew- Essien appealed to workers to reciprocate Govern-

& Company private reinsurers who will share the risk on African financial institutions. This vehicle will enable many insurance companies operating outside Africa to participate in the financing of development in Africa for the first time.

The deal is the second Balance Sheet Optimization transaction under the “Room to Run” initiative following the successful signing of the Synthetic Securitization transaction in September.

The insurance will cover approximately 22 percent of AfDB’s $2.3 billion outstanding non-sovereign financial sector portfolio. Specifically, it will protect the Bank against the non-payment of loans made to approximately 30 African financial institutions. The portfolio spans the African continent, with exposure to financial institutions in all major regions of the continent, and is expected to release sufficient capital to create almost $500 million of headroom for new lending.

“This transaction leverages the Bank’s own capital to achieve more development and lending as it creates new pathways for collaboration between private insurers and the Bank in the development of the African continent,” said Mr Akinwumi Adesina, President of the African Development Bank Group.

30

The Oracle Today Wednesday November 7, 2018

EQUITY & Capital Market Seplat exonerates self from $114m court judgement against Chairman Stories by JEROME USHAKANG

T

HE Board and Management of Seplat Petroleum Development Company Plc (SPDC) has exonerated itself from a recent court judgement involving its Chairman, Mr A. B.C Orjiako.

The SPDC Board and Management is reacting to a recent court judgment by a Federal High Court Ikoyi, Lagos which ordered Dr Orjiako and the other defendants to pay three banks – Diamond Bank Plc, African Export-Import Bank, and the defunct Skye Bank Plc now Polaris Bank Limited – the sum of $114 million.

The company in a statement signed by its Secretary Mr. on Wednesday October 17, 2018 to the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) said, “ Seplat’s attention had been drawn to recent media publications regarding the court judgment involving Mr. Ojiako, the chairman of SPDC”.

According to the statement, the oil company is not a party to the court case and would therefore, like to dissociate itself.

It explained that the court judgement, though involving Seplat’s Chairman of Board, does not have anything to do with Seplat itself. Instead, two other separate companies which are

involved are:- Allene Limited and Shebah Exploration & Production Company Limited. Consequently, Seplat thought it wise to set the records straight in order to avoid any form of confusion.

The statement emphasized that it was an enforcement of judgement earlier delivered by the High Court of Justice Queen’s Bench Division and upheld by the Supreme Court of the United Kingdom. The $114 million is the

outstanding and accrued interest of a credit facility granted to the defendants in 2011.

Besides, Seplat Petroleum Development Plc stated that it is required by Rule 17.10 of The NSE’s Rule Book to make this announcement in the event of this kind of situation.

The statement read: Seplat is not a party to the litigation. The Company will monitor the progress of the suit and issue further

communication on the matter as appropriate. This announcement is being made by the Company in accordance with Rule 17.10, Rulebook of the Nigerian Stock Exchange, 2015 (Issuers Rule).

Meanwhile, Seplat Petroleum Development Company Plc is a leading oil company in the upstream sector. The company is currently listed on both the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) and London Stock Exchange (LSE).

2019 Election: SEC re-assures investors’ on market performance

A

CTING Director General of the Securities and Exchange Commission, SEC, Ms. Mary Uduk has assured investors in the Capital Market that there is nothing to fear on the performance of the market as the 2019 election approaches.

Uduk spoke while responding to questions from journalists on the sidelines of the just concluded World Bank/IMF Annual Meetings in Bali, Indonesia.

She said the upcoming election might have made some investors to hold back their investments and sell or adopt a wait and see strategy until after the elections, but added that it is nothing to worry about.

The SEC boss explained that the major contributory factor to the current downward trend of the market is the outflow of foreign investment which has led to sell pressure accumulating into depressed prices. This she said is one of the reasons why the Commission is mapping out strategies to build confidence in the market and encourage more retail investors.

According to her “We understand the importance of foreign investors for market efficiency, liquidity and transparency. However it is also important for us to develop local investors by building their confidence and encouraging their participation.

“We have made a lot of progress in that direction like risk based supervision, zero tolerance to infractions in the market, complaint Management Framework among others. If you don’t tolerate infractions, investors will know that somebody is watching their back. We have other initiatives like e-dividend, Direct Cash Settlement which are all geared towards encouraging investors in the Nigerian capital market”.

Uduk said the SEC is exploring avenues to deepen the market, through the introduction of different products like derivatives, non interest capital market products and commodities and finalising rules on derivatives as well as have a standing Committee in developing a vibrant Commodity Ecosystem.

She also disclosed that the SEC is

embracing technology innovation which is a major theme of this IMF/ World Bank meeting.

She said “In terms of what we have done, we are working on automating a number of our operations, we are encouraging those we regulate to embrace technology and have minimum technological standards and encourage new innovators, especially FinTech.

“Fintech companies offering capital market products and improved processes are expected to collaborate with the Commission through some of our existing arrangement like the Regulatory Sandbox that we are currently working towards implementing”.

Uduk added that with all these efforts and several others, the Nigerian Capital Market can manage some of these risks, become deeper and realise its potentials.

Kachikwu Receives Multiple Honours From The States Of Georgia and South Carolina in the United States.

Vibrant Commodities’ Exchange will accelerate economic development – SEC

T

HE Securities and Exchange Commission, SEC has said that organized Commodities Exchange Market would enhance efficiency and lead to rapid economic growth and development in the country.

The submission was made by

Acting Director General of the SEC Ms. Mary Uduk when she received members of the Commodities Trading Ecosystem Implementation Committee in her office in Abuja,last weekend.

Uduk said the Commodities market is an integral part of the

economy whose potentials have not yet be fully harnessed for the country to enjoy the benefits therein.

She added that there is a lot of benefits in promoting commodity exchanges and the ecosystem in general as they provide a trans-

United Capital, Proshare partner to provide online platform

U

NITED Capital Plc, an investment banking group is in collaboration with Proshare, a financial information hub, to engage the investing public on the ‘InvestNow’ service.

InvestNow, is a product of United Capital and is an integrated online investment platform created to make it easy for users to learn how to invest, about investing and choose the right investment tools and products to meet their short-long financial goals, and start investing seamlessly either from a mobile phone or a computer.

United Capital explained that the ‘tweet meet’ is an opportunity for Nigerians to engage United Capital through the Proshare platform, on the objectives and features of the redesigned ‘InvestNow’ platform.

The company allayed the fears

of prospective investors, stressing that the platform is safe, secure, and easy to use. It added that in order to access the service, the step to take is by hitting the link investnow.ng or by downloading the InvestNow mobile app available on the android app store.

Responding to a question on the reason for redesigning the InvestNow platform, United Capital said that “The new and improved InvestNow is designed to help Africans start investing at their own pace. InvestNow was developed out of the need to help more people take advantage of the opportunities available in the different money markets”.

Giving more details, United Capital said that the InvestNow is a platform that brings the opportunities of the markets to an investor (you), and makes it easy

for you to become an investor. It emphasized that access to fixed income, money market, equities and stock, family estate and trusts that have never been this easy in Africa is now made easy.

Explaining more, the company disclosed that the goal of InvestNow is aimed at giving people a chance to grow their money over time by simply making the best guided investment decisions.

According to United Capital, regarding savings, it stated that InvestNow can be used to save for high capital projects like the purchase of a car, or a house, or even capital for a new business. Also, the Private Investment Trust, you can save and invest consistently towards your future projects.

In respect to the issues of accessibility to mass market, the United Capital InvestNow app was designed to be easy to use by everyone.

parent pricing mechanism, promote attractiveness of agribusiness, foster financial inclusion and improve quality of agricultural output and profitability as well as government revenue. It also enhances the wellbeing of the farming communities and help reduce rural - urban drift.

The Commodities Trading Ecosystem Implementation Committee has NEXIM, NIRSAL, CBN, NCX, FSS2020, CIS, FMDQ and AFEX as members that have been mandated to implement recommendations of the report of the Technical Committee on Commodities Trading Ecosystem.

Ms. Daisy Ekineh who led the team, gave an update of the Committee’s activities to the SEC team.

Ekineh commended the SEC on it’s efforts towards ensuring a vibrant Commodities Ecosystem in Nigeria.

The Committee developed a roadmap for educating and enlightening all stakeholders to enable them understand the responsibility of each stakeholder and is planning an International Stakeholders conference chaired

by NIRSAL with people from all over the world scheduled to attend.

31

The Oracle Today Wednesday November 7, 2018

MONEY Market

Nigeria has serious revenue problem –Budget Office

Stories by KAYODE OGUNWALE

N

IGERIA is currently facing a serious revenue problem, the Director of Budget in the Ministry of Budget and National Planning, Ben Akabueze declared.

Akabueze also revealed that the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation was subsidising every litre of Premium Motor Spirit, popularly called petrol, consumed in the country by N53.

He, however, referred to the sum as under-recovery, stressing that it was the term that the NNPC often called it.

He stated these while answering questions from participants at the Strategic Dialogues on the Morocco-Nigeria Relations in Abuja.

Akabueze said, “For us in Nigeria, lately there has been a lot of talk about government’s borrowings and those who talk about it are justified to express the concern. But the truth is that I think we are generally having the wrong discussion. I personally don’t think we have a debt problem, but we have a serious revenue problem, which, if we do not address, will snowball into a debt problem.

“But instead of having a discussion around the revenue issue, we are talking about the debt. Morocco, for instance, has a 63 per cent debt to GDP ratio; we have a 20 per cent debt to GDP ratio. Morocco has over 3.4 per cent deficit to the GDP ratio;

we have a statutory cap of three per cent.”

He added, “The real issue is that in 2017, for instance, our debt service to revenue ratio crossed 60 per cent. There are two options of a policy standpoint in trying to address the numerator, which is debt, at a time when you have huge infrastructure deficit that needs to be addressed.

“And this is also at a time when the economy remains pretty fragile and, therefore, government spending is critical to sustain and drive growth. Therefore, focusing on the numerator in times like this may not be the solution. This is why revenue is what we need to focus on.”

Akabueze talked about oil price and stated that despite the rise in the cost of crude, there had been no corresponding growth in Nigeria’s revenue.

This, he said, was because the country was spending more to import virtually all the refined products from crude oil.

The budget director stated, “On oil price, for us it is a double-edged sword unfortunately.

This ought to be a season where we should be clicking glasses with regards to the oil price. But right now, practically every drop of refined petroleum product that we consume in the country is imported.

“And the one single factor that determines the price of refined product is the price of crude. In essence, while we export the crude at about $80 per barrel, we effectively import back the same crude at about $100 im-

Access Bank grows Q3 earnings to N375bn

A

CCESS Bank Plc has announced top line earnings of N375.2 billion for the nine months ended 30 September 2018, up 3 percent from N365.1 billion recorded during the corresponding period in 2017.

The Bank’s profit after tax increased 12 percent to N62.9 billion from N56.4 billion of which subsidiary contribution increased to 32 percent, from 15 percent from the corresponding period.

The asset base of the Bank remained strong and robust with growth of 11 percent year to date in total assets to N4.55 trillion in September 2018 from N4.10 trillion in December 2017. Loans and Advances totaled N2.08 trillion as at September 2018 (December 2017: N2.06 trillion). Customer deposits increased by 10 percent to N2.48 trillion in September 2018, from N2.25 trillion in December 2017. Capital Adequacy of 20.3 percent and liquidity ratios of 44.2 percent, remained consistently above the regulatory minimum requirement.

Commenting on the result, Group Managing Director/CEO, Herbert Wigwe said, “Our capital and liquidity position remained adequately above regulatory levels, as we continued to implement a disciplined capital plan, ensuring sufficient levels of profit

retention to support our growth.

We remain committed to our cost containment plan, as we strive to balance operational efficiency with earnings growth in a constrained environment.”

Further analysis of the results showed Non-performing loans stood at 4.7 percent as at September 2018 compared to 4.8 percent in December 2017. Cost of risk decreased to 0.5 percent in 9 months to September 2018 from 0.9 percent in 2017 on the back of prudent risk management practices during the period.

“The Bank will remain resilient in the achievement of its strategic imperatives; maximizing our strong market position and solid capital base, while leveraging digital innovation to improve service touch points as we sharpen our retail play with emphasis on cheaper funding sources,” Wigwe said.

portation price for refined products. And that explains why despite the strong oil prices, we are not seeing a corresponding growth in government revenue.”

On the amount being spent by the NNPC in subsidising

PMS, Akabueze stated that the huge financial outlay had also dragged down the country’s revenue.

“Also at the moment, in terms of pricing of petroleum products, for every litre of petrol, there is a N53 under-recovery.

•Chief Executive Officer/Publisher of LaMode Magazine and convener, Green October Event 2018, Mrs. Sandra Odige; Head, Brand Management and Sustainability, Heritage Bank PLC, Mrs. Ozena Utulu; and Head, Media and External Relations, Heritage Bank PLC, Mr. Blaise Udunze; during the La Mode Green October Event 2018 where the bank won an award for being the Most Supportive Bank of the Year 2018 at Oriental Hotel, Lagos.

FG proposes N8.73 trillion 2019 draft budget

F

EDERAL Government has agreed to submit to lawmakers an N8.73 trillion draft 2019 budget, a reduction from a record N9.12 trillion in 2018.

Minister of Budget and National Planning, Udoma Udo Udoma said the 2019-2021 Medium Term Framework, a draft that needs to be approved by parliament before the budget is finalised, assumes an oil price of $60 per barrel and production of 2.3 million barrels per day.

Previous week Udoma said the government planned to cut its 2019

budget as part of an effort to lower debt.

Nigeria, Africa’s top oil producer, has experienced sluggish growth since it emerged early last year from its first recession in a quarter of a century. The recession was largely caused by lower crude prices and attacks on energy facilities in the Niger Delta, the oil production heartland.

Oil production, on which Nigeria relies for about two-thirds of government revenues, was at 1.9 million barrels per day in the second quarter against an estimated 2.3

T

HE Managing Director of FBNQuest Asset Management, Mr. Ike Onyia has disclosed that investors in FBN Nigeria Eurobond (USD) Fund stand to reap multiple benefits.

He said that the Fund provides diversification benefits, as the portfolio invests in Eurobonds from dif-

million barrels per day budgeted for in 2018, the government said last week.

“Full details of the medium-term framework will be submitted to the National Assembly for approval soon,” Udoma told reporters in the capital Abuja after the weekly cabinet meeting.

The draft also assumes an exchange rate of 305 naira to the dollar and gross domestic product (GDP) rising by 2.01 percent. GDP was up 1.50 percent in the second quarter of 2018.

Heritage Bank adjudged “Most Supportive Bank of the Year”

H

ERITAGE Bank Plc., has been adjudged the “Most Supportive Bank of the Year,” barely two weeks it grossed home three awards for its outstanding performance.

The current award was conferred on Heritage Bank at the fourth edition of Green October Event 2018, an event organized by Alamode Magazine.

Only recently, Heritage Bank was adjudged “Best SME Bank Nigeria 2018” by Capital Finance International (CFI.co) and “Agriculture Bank of the Year 2018” by the Nigeria Agriculture Awards (MAA). Also, the bank was honoured for being the Best CIBN Chapter of the Year 2018 in terms of members’ mobilization and participa-

tion as well as sponsorship of the Institute programmes.

Speaking about the current award, Ifie Sekibo, Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Heritage Bank, who was represented at the event held at Oriental Hotel, Lagos by Mrs. Ozena Utulu, Head, Brand Management and Sustainability; commended the organizers for the recognition and honour.

He explained that his management at Heritage Bank Plc. is usually excited when indigenous entrepreneurs show high level of creativity in their daily routine. “At Heritage Bank, such creativity and determination to standout in the midst of competition by any promoter of Small and Medium Scale Enterprises is given due financial support’, he stated.

ferent issuers have reduced risks. According to him, “when you compare the returns on this Fund with returns on an offshore savings/checking account or USD domiciliary account, you will find that the FBN Nigeria Eurobond (USD) Fund offers competitive returns.

The Managing Director reiterated that the Fund is also not only for individual investors, but is open to cor-

porate organisations who have USD liabilities and are looking for dollar investments that can offer competitive returns. Corporate organisations can subscribe to this Fund with a minimum amount of $100,000.

“If you are looking for new ways to invest your US Dollars (USD) in the ever-changing economic environment, the FBN Nigeria Eurobond (USD) Fund is a credible option.” He said.

FBN Eurobond (USD) provides diversification benefits to investors – Onyia

By JEROME USHAKANG

Well, that is the term that the NNPC, which has this responsibility, calls it and so who am I? This represents a significant value for us. Hence, the need to diversify the economy remains urgent,” he added.

Sekibo therefore encouraged the audience present at the occasion to partronise Heritage Bank and benefit from the varied financial services products and services available to meet the diverging needs of investors According to him, any SME promoter who may approach Heritage Bank for financial support would not regret doing so; as the bank is endowed with experienced staff whose professional prowess is equal to none.

In her remarks about the award, Mrs. Sandra Odige, Chief Executive Officer/Publisher, LaMode Magazine as well as the organizer of the annual awards; said the good works the management and staff of Heritage Bank are doing are well noticeable.

She said the testimonies from beneficiaries of the products and services of Heritage Bank too show the commitment of Heritage Bank to its values and promises. Odige therefore charged Heritage Bank not to relent on its oars as posterity is taking note of the contribution it is currently making to lead the nation’s economy to a higher level.

Among other personnel and institutions hounoured with awards at the event is Donald Duke, former Governor of Cross River State and Ejiro Sharon Okotie, founder of the Hope Inspired Foundation.

32

The Oracle Today Wednesday November 7, 2018

FEATURES

For Madu, it is retirement into work

I

•Sir Romanus Madu and his wife, Lady Onyedikachi Madu

“Now that you have meritoriously retired, that is not the end of the road, there are many channels open for you. You will go and buy form. If you don’t know, that is why your people are doing this thing for you,”

”

t was jubilation and encomiums galore ae the people of Umunnechi gathered in Umuahia last Sunday to celebrate one of their own, Sir Romanus Madu, who retired from the Abia State Civil Service. BONIFACE OKORO reports.

For Sir Romanus Kodichukwu Madu who retired from the Abia State civil Service recently, work is just about to start.

Madu hails from Umuelem Isuochi in Umunneochi local government area of Abia State. He enrolled into the Old Imo State Civil Service in1981, after leaving secondary school, as Cooperative Inspectorin-Training on Grade Leve 04. He rose to the pinnacle of the service and retired as Permanent Secretary in the Abia State Civil service.

At a lavish reception in his honour organized by the Umunneochi Welfare Committee in Umuahia last Sunday, his people, friends and well-wishers who graced the occasion, declared that they were well pleased in him and told him in unmistakable terms that since he is retired but not tired, he should get ready for more work.

For, them, Madu should take to politics.

“Now that you have meritoriously retired, that is not the end of the road, there are many channels open for you. You will go and buy form. If you don’t know, that is why your people are doing this thing for you,” Senator Theodore Orji told the 55 year-old.

Senator Orji was not the first to voice the popular demand. Before him, The Parish Priest of St. Michael’s Catholic Church, Ugwunchara, Umuahia, where Maud worships, Rev. Fr. Francis Nwaiwu, opened the floodgate of demands that the celebrant who was also came for a Thanksgiving Mass, should not retire to his house and lock himself up because he has retired.

“I congratulate you on your meritorious retirement and it is good to thank God. Don’t get tired, go into a new job,” Fr. Nwaiwu charged Madu.

Abia State Deputy Governor, Sir Ude Oko Chukwu, who was at the Thanksgiving Mass, joined the chorus by inviting Madu to join politics.

“This is a day to appreciate God for His goodness on Madu. Probably, he didn’t know that he will retire as Permanent Secretary “You were a worthy ambassador while in service, come and join us in this business of politics, people like you will help us to build the society and provide good governance,” the Deputy Governor said before the capacity-filled church.

Madu is an epitome of humility; highly respectful and one whose looks and appearance at all times does not betray his status in the society. The dark complexioned, diligent Knight of the Catholic Church and well-known figure both in the church and social circles, prefers to remain quiet most of the time but wears an innocuous smile with his white teeth illuminating his dark face.

For this attributes, many love him. Little wonder that the immediate past governor of Abia State who is now the lawmaker representing Abia Central, Senator T.A.Orji, on spotting and having been very much impressed by his dedication and humility, held onto Madu and later elevated him to the Position of Director of Finance, Government House.

Addressing the gathering at the reception ceremony, Orji said he developed interest in Madu because of his honesty, adding that he managed every kobo entrusted to his care very well.

“There was no day I had of theft, there was no day I had of losses, there was no day I heard funny stories about Madu and government money,” he said.

“I am happy with him. He has done very well. He is a dogged fighter, he doesn’t fear, he keeps to his words,” he added.

Revealing how Madu ascended the pinnacle of his career, Orji sad: “When I left the service, I said such people should not be abandoned. I followed his progress and I met the governor and said, when he (Madu) was to retire, keep this man, he is an asset to you and the governor listened to me.

“And when it came for him to retire, I also met the governor and told him that the best way to appreciate this young man is to lift him to the apex of the civil service which is making him a permanent secretary,” he narrated.

The Senator said he was extremely happy to learn that while God blessed Madu, he in turn, became a blessing to his community and other people.

Umunneochi Welfare Union which organized the reception for Madu, had disclosed that the occasion was to celebrate Madu, when he is still alive, for his numerous contributions to the development of his community.

They said while in service, Madu, attracted a health centre, town hall and a modern classroom block to his community. This excludes those he assisted to get employment and people he empowered financially.

Chairman of Umunneochi local government area, Barr Okey Igwe, described Madu as a proud son of Umunneochi.

“As the sitting chairman of Umunneochi, I am most proud of the Chief celebrant today. I have known him in a little less than two years. But those two years, I have known him as a man with strength of character and a unique individual. And so, I am not surprised by the degree of encomiums and accolades that is being meted out to him today and so, as a proud Umunneochi person, he has made us proud.

“Here is a man who has peaked in civil service. He is a shining example because most often and all too often, our people are not patient to serve their time in the civil service,” Barr. Igwe remarked.

He counseled young people to exercise the degree of patience that it takes to achieve what Sir Romanus has achieved and commended Umunneochi people for trooping out en masse to celebrate Madu.

The Council boss was also full of gratitude to Senator Orji “for putting Madu on the pedestal that took him to the peak and pinnacle of civil service.”

If Madu was looking for encomiums, he got an overdose. The verdict of all who have come across him is that he was he has a heart of god.

Rev. Father Bartholomew Nnaemedo, Vicar General II, Catholic Diocese of Okigwe, who officiated the Thanksgiving Mass, testified that Madu “was very humble, his position didn’t get into his head and He used what he had to work for God. He charged him to continue with those works for which God has been blessing him.

The Vicar General received a thunderous affirmation from the congregation when he enquired to know if Madu was contributing to the growth of the Parish.

In his homily, Rev. Father Thephilus Okafor, likened Madu to Simon of Cyrene who helped Jesus to carry his crossand described him as a man with a charitable heart and a philanthropist.

Other priests who assisted the Vica-General included Rev. Fr. Peter Okafor, Rev. Father Ofoma Kelechi and Rev. Fr. Damian Chibueze.

Chairman of the occasion, Chief Ndid Okereke, noted that the event was to celebrate excellence, adding that Madu was a good ambassador.

‘He hates flamboyance and he is an epitome of humility. He should go for more work outside civil service,” Okereke said.

A lecturer in the Department of Political Science in Abia State University, Uturu, Onyedikachi Madueke who delivered a lecture on leadership, painted the picture of Madu as a man who is an embodiment of leadership qualities.

He listed discipline, dynamism, patriotism, doggedness and honesty as leadership qualities deposited in the celebrant.

While proposing the toast, Dr. Ike Onyenweaku proposed the toast, also described Madu as a man of honour.

Responding, Madu said he was overwhelmed. “I never knew I was loved like this. My doors will remain open. I will not change from the Madu that you know,” he assured. His wife, Lady Onyedikachi, said her family would remain eternally grateful to the Umunneochi people for celebrating them.

Retirement is for rest, after years of labour. But Madu may have realized by now that he may be retiring into another type of work, not rest, as the Umunneochi people have decreed.

33

The Oracle Today Wednesday November 7, 2018

Love and Living

...With Ireto Temofeh

MODEL OF THE WEEK

LOVE NEWS Desperate Prince Charles wanted to pull out of his wedding to Diana when he realised how ‘incompatible’

P

rince Charles desperately wanted to pull out of his wedding to Princess Diana’ Despite realising that he and the aristocrat’s daughter were incompatible, he felt powerless to do anything about it.

Breaking off the engagement ‘would have been cataclysmic’, he said.

And he described himself as being ‘permanently between the devil and deep blue sea’.

Years later and still troubled by the tragedy of the marriage, he wept tears of frustration as he told friends: ‘I desperately wanted to get out of the wedding in 1981, when during the engagement I discovered just how awful the prospects were.’

The story of the heir to the throne’s anguish over the doomed marriage is told in an explosive new royal biography to mark his landmark 70th birthday next month.

It reveals how Charles wants to challenge ‘pernicious lies’ about him – which he believes were orchestrated by Diana herself.

Veteran royal correspondent Robert Jobson, the book’s author, has accompanied the prince for 18 months on tours around the world.

Mr Jobson, who has reported on the royals for almost three decades, has spoken to many current and former members of his staff – and to Charles himself.

The result is a compelling book full of ground-breaking new material which is being serialised in the Mail today and next week.

Name: Vicky Tel: 08175900535 • If you want to be our next ORACLE GIRL, e-mail or forward your photos/data to ireto007@yahoo.com. Call 07031028714.

ODD NEWS

‘We will never allow a cover-up’: Turkey’s ruling party will soon reveal its evidence into Jamal Khashoggi’s death • As Saudi Arabia finally admits journalist died ‘after a fight at its consulate’

T

urkish police detained two Georgian nationals after a woman was caught trying to smuggle herself into the country curled up inside a tiny suitcase.

Customs officials working at the Sarpi border crossing, close to the city of Artvin, ordered officers to inspect a suitcase belonging to a 25-year-old man after he was spotted acted suspiciously.

Upon opening the luggage officers were shocked to discover a 22-year-old woman curled up inside. She later told officers that she tried to smuggle herself in to the country because a previous conviction in the country meant she had been banned from travelling there.

Turkish police detained the

pair after customs officials made the discovery on Monday, but they were both later released, sent back to Georgia and ordered not to return.

The woman told investigators that she had an outstanding ban on her travelling to Turkey after being convicted of an unspecified offence.

It was not immediately clear what had attracted customs officials to the 25-year-old Georgian man, but the suitcase in which the woman was hidden was barely large enough to hold a human body.

The tight squeeze forced her to curl up into an uncomfortable-looking fetal position.

The border crossing where the couple had tried to smuggle themselves in Turkey lies near

Sarp - a tiny town on the Black Sea, around 50 miles north of the city of Artvin.

Although Sarp is home to just 212 people, it is one of only three official border crossings along the 170-mile long Turkey-Georgia border.

The Sarp border crossing, in the District of Hopa, Artvin Province, opened in the late 1980s, when Georgia was still part of the Soviet Union.

After independence in 1991, post-communist Georgia suffered from civil unrest and economic crisis for most of the 1990s.

Georgia covers a territory of 26,911 square miles, and its population is almost five million.

Courtesy: Daily Mail.

Among the sensational revelations are: ■How Charles is already ‘Shadow King’ and the Queen could stand aside at 95, allowing him to become Regent.

■How shocked Charles was by his sons’ level of belligerence; ■His dismay at being excluded from the boys’ 2017 documentary about Princess Diana; ■Harry’s meltdown ahead of his wedding to Meghan Markle; ■How Charles ‘talks to the dead’, including Earl Mountbatten, his mentor murdered by the IRA; ■His disdain for Tony Blair, whom he once mockingly referred to as ‘our magnificent leader;’ ■His despair at the Iraq War, tell-

ing friends Mr Blair had behaved like George Bush’s poodle; ■How he disagrees with the burka bans introduced by France and other European countries; ■His distrust of US evangelicalism and the lobbying power of giant American corporations; ■His fear that America’s chemically-gown corn was fuelling that country’s ever-growing obesity and diabetes crisis; Charles emerges from this powerful portrait as a contented figure, who is far from bitter but has strong views on some of the most vital issues facing us today.

But it is the revelation about his heartache over Diana that is bound to raise eyebrows.

Ever since Diana confided in biographer Andrew Morton we have known that the princess wanted to back out of the marriage.

But until now we had no idea that the prince did too.

It is at times brutal reading as the book details Charles’s sadness at his failure to confront what was to become an unfolding tragedy.

Mr Jobson says that the prince knew within just a handful of meetings they were ill-suited.

He told friends how in the weeks leading up to the wedding when he tried to explain his daily routine, Diana seemed incapable of grasping what he was saying.

The more he saw her, the more he realised he was making a mistake.

Charles said he blamed no one – neither his father nor his mother – for his inability to back out of the engagement.

Instead he blamed his own failure to get to know Diana properly beforehand.

The princess said they had met no more than 12 times before their engagement in February 1981.

According to Mr Jobson, the prince is haunted by sadness over the doomed marriage to this day.

But in one regard the sorrow is matched by his fury at lies peddled about him.

He blamed Diana for this, telling a friend of ‘unbelievable and pernicious lies aided and abetted by somebody rather close to me [who] lived hand to mouth with the Press’.

The most hurtful lie that has echoed down the years was the claim that he had secreted the then unmarried Diana on board the Royal Train for a tryst.

ROMANTIC JOKE FINALLY TOGETHER Maria, a devout Catholic, got married and had 10 children. After her first husband died, she remarried and had 10 more children. A few weeks after her second husband died, Maria also passed away. At Maria’s funeral, the priest looked skyward and said, “At last, they’re finally together.” Her sister sitting in the front row said, “Excuse me, Father, but do you mean she and her first husband, or she and her second husband?” The priest replied, “I mean her legs.”

34

The Oracle Today Wednesday November 7, 2018

True Confession

She ran mad on our wedding day

• I will always love you, • No matter what happens

M

y name is Ade and my story is a sad one. The love of Ifeoma is the greatest love I have ever had, and will ever have.

In my own estimation, love is not measured by how long it lasts, but by how strong it is.

Even if it lasts for a moment, there is a kind of love that could be stronger than the loves that last for years.

That was the kind of love that I and Ifeoma shared.

Don’t look down on me because my wife is now a mad woman, because I’m determined to stand by her till the end. I met Ifeoma 15 years ago while we were still teenagers.

I was staying with my aunt in Lagos and my school was on holiday, so my aunt suggested that I go and spend the holiday with the children of her bosom friend in Enugu. That was how at the age of 16, I went to Enugu to spend a holiday.

The family of my aunt’s bosom friend was a very happy and united one. We called my aunt’s bosom friend Aunty Ngozi, and she had 3 girls. I was gladly introduced to all her children who welcomed me with

open arms.

Ifeoma was her first daughter and even at 12 years old, she looked bigger than her age. We became fond of each other and continued our friendship through to adulthood.

I yearned for Ifeoma like a deer yearns for water. And I prayed to God earnestly for the day she would finally be mine.

When I finally got a job in Lagos, I invited her to come from Enugu and stay with me in Lagos, pending when I would have saved enough money to do her introduction.

Ifeoma and I picked a date for our wedding and we looked forward to that day when we would become husband and wife.

However, our wedding day proved to be the saddest day of my life. The truth was that one of my aunts was totally against my getting married to Ifeoma because she is Igbo.

My aunt did everything to turn my parents against my plans to wed Ifeoma by saying that Igbos are only after money. According to my aunt, Ifeoma would only take my money and abandon me.

Suddenly, my aunt brought out a black substance from her bag, and rubbed it all over Ifeoma’s head.

Immediately, Ifeoma, my newly wedded wife, started acting funny and taking her clothes off. She would have run out of the church naked if I hadn’t held her hands.

But still, I was undeterred. I swore to go ahead with the wedding as long as my parents had agreed to it. But I didn’t know what my aunt had in store for us.

On our wedding day, we woke up early and went to the church with Ifeoma looking immaculate in her wedding gown.

After we had exchanged our wedding vows, that my aunt and other relatives came to greet us.

Suddenly, my aunt brought out a black substance from her bag, and rubbed it all over Ifeoma’s head.

Immediately, Ifeoma, my newly wedded wife, started acting funny and taking her clothes off. She would have run out of the church naked if I hadn’t held her hands.

At first, it didn’t occur to us that my wife had gone crazy. We rushed her to a private hospital thinking it was fever or malaria.

It was at the private hospital that it dawned on me that my wife had run mad on our wedding day when the doctor referred her to a psychiatric hospital.

Ifeoma is still in the psychiatric hospital. Yet my aunt is saying that she has found another wife for me, a Yoruba girl from my hometown.

But I have vowed never to let her succeed in her evil plans. I will stand by my wife, Ifeoma, till the end. I will never take another wife.

Your say: Call 07031028714.

35

The Oracle Today Wednesday November 7, 2018

Relationships and Love Advice

He claims he loves me, but he doesn’t express it

Love Search Women seeking relationship/ marriage Rose, in Lagos, just rented a shop, needs someone to support her in starting a business. 08107458039.

Funke, 44, needs a man (widower or divorcée) of 50-55 years for a serious relationship. 08185083988.

Ngozi, 28, fat, jovial, fair, in Onitsha, Anambra state, needs a God-fearing and buoyant man of 45 years and above to take good care of her. 08022792682.

Busayo, 33, single mother from Ogun, needs a hardworking Yoruba man between 34-40 years for marriage. 09096187179.

Uchechi, 36, a graduate, tall, fair, needs a tall, fair, graduate, Igbo evangelist, pastor or God fearing Igbo man for marriage.

08052366993.

Dear Love Doctor, I am a lady of 29 years who deeply loves a guy. He claims to love me too but he does not express it.

He does not call but sends text messages once in a while. I complained but nothing is being done and I strongly believe he has someone else.

I stopped my frequent calling yet he never bothered. He does not give me money or gifts, yet I have never asked him for anything. Now I want to quit the affair because I am not enjoying the relationship at all. Does he really love me? Love Doctor please I need your candid advice.

From, Praise, Edo state.

E-Mail: ireto007@yahoo.com Go to foodstuffs.com.ng. Call Love Doctor: 07031028714, 08131161840.

Dear Praise,

M

Joy, 38, HIV positive, graduate, needs a young widower or single man from 43 years and above with the same status, for a loving and caring husband. 08184889175.

Lora, graduate, works, HIV Positive, based in Jos, wants a HIV positive man of 35-40 years for marriage. 08090925014.

Love Doctor’s Advice: y first question is whether your guy used to show you any affection before (in order to win you) or was he always not affectionate?

If he used to be affectionate and he’s become lazy of late, my first question is have you discussed the issue with him? Does he know that you need more affection? If you haven’t yet discussed the matter, then we can’t assume that he knows anything is the matter! Never assume anything about your partner in a relationship without first seeking clarification from him/ her. He may not have someone else as you think.

However, remember, don’t attack, blame, complain or criticize him. Simply state what you need and how much it means to you. In many cases, this solves the problem.

Jenny, 38, Big, Busty, Needs An Igbo Or South - South Man Above 50 Years In Lagos Who Is Romantic And Caring. 08117340383.

If he doesn’t respond after you make your need for affection clear, then we have to dig deeper to find out why he’s withholding affection from you. Is something not working for him in the relationship? Is something bothering him at work?

Is he depressed? Does he feel that you’re not meeting his needs?

Generally when we feel properly fed by our partners, we want to give back to them whatever they want from us. When a partner withholds, it can be a sign that he/ she is feeling unfulfilled in the relationship.

Now let’s move to another possibility. Maybe everything is fine for him in the relationship and he’s simply fallen into what some counsellors call the Caveman Courtship routine. The caveman did whatever he needed to win his female.

He’d show off, prove his strength

and prowess, fight off competitors, etc.

But once he banged her over the head with a club and dragged her back to his cave, the challenge was over! His conquest was won, and he could just sit back and watch the sports channel. In this way, modern day men aren’t very different from cavemen. Therefore, your guy may be taking you for granted because he sees you as a done deal rather than the prize that he needs to keep happy if he wants her to remain in his life.

Reach out to your man. Discuss with him to know why he doesn’t show you affection. If it’s clear that he is playing games, don’t settle for deception, because it wouldn’t be wise wasting your time being with someone who doesn’t love you.

Do you have advice on this problem? Please share your thoughts. Call 07031028714 or 08131161840. Email: ireto007@yahoo.com Do you have a marriage/wedding, birthday, anniversary or club or town meeting announcement to make? Call 07031028714 now!

Men seeking relationship/ marriage Emeka, 44, businessman in Lagos, needs a god fearing lady of 35 years and above for marriage. 09060591429.

Ugochukwu Raphael, 26, needs a rich sugar mummy who will help him financially.

08087720682, 07059911437.

Uche in Lagos wants a mature working woman who loves receiving oral sex or a woman who likes a man going down on her.

08077821830.

John, an undergraduate in Akure, Ondo state, needs a lonely and sexually unsatisfied woman residing around the SouthSouth or South-West regions to care for.

08106969227.

Emeka, 54, in Lagos, needs an educated woman between 32-35 years for a wife.

08118482541.

Ogbonna, 40, from Ebonyi, in Abuja, business man, needs a working class lady between 3040 years for marriage. 09069054706.

36

The Oracle Today Wednesday November 7, 2018

It happened to me:

I ruined my horrible sister-in-law’s wedding

I

have never gotten on with my husband’s family, and since meeting his only other sibling, a younger sister, have thought she is a spoiled, lazy person. Time after time I witnessed my husband’s family — namely his mother — put my husband’s needs far behind his sister.

My resentment for my sister-in-law reached a peak when she told my husband he was not included in any way at their wedding (despite her having been in our bridal party at the begging of my mother-in-law). My husband was devastated, so I vowed that I would make her pay.

When my husband and I got married, his parents gave us only $500 and had little to do with the planning and preparation for our special day. Yet, when my sister-in-law announced her wedding plans, my in-laws decreed they would pay for everything, and my mother-inlaw proceeded to plan every detail of her wedding.

I waited until eight days before the wedding, after my mother-in-law had contacted the venue for the last time before the ‘big day’, then I rang the venue pretending to be my mother-inlaw and gave them a sob story about the wedding being on hold because the groom had come down with mumps and was unable to travel for two weeks (they lived in a different town to where

the wedding was being held). Being so close to the date of the wedding, the venue kept the deposit my in-laws had put down, and by the time they sent the letter of cancellation out to my in-laws, it was only four days before the wedding.

When my mother-in-law rang the venue to say there had been some mistake, she was informed that they had already rebooked the venue for another function, so there was nothing they could do.

My mother-in law was in tears, my sister-in-law was furious at her mother for ruining her wedding, and they ended up having their reception at the local RSL with the ‘all you can eat’ buffet. My in-laws were busy ringing around all the

guests up to two days before the wedding to advise of the change of venue.

Whilst my sister-in-law has forgiven her mother for the cancellation, the ‘all you can eat’ buffet was horrible and she even to this day continues to moan about how her wedding was ruined.

They never figured out what really happened, and continue to blame the venue for mixing up the cancellation.

I make sure I leave the room before breaking into a smile whenever they complain.

• Do you have a story or comment about this confession? Call 07031028714.

37

The Oracle Today Wednesday November 7, 2018

The Law and You Judiciary: Please, intervene to save our nascent democracy With Barr. Ken Akpom 08162016410

I

watched the primary election of most of our political parties in the nation and which just ended with the submission of the purposely elected candidate/representaives of those parties. I also keenly watched on the visual media the last two elections in Ekiti and Osun states. Ater all these observations, I became convinced in my mind that we have a very long way to go in achieving true and proper democracy in the country.

Both the election and the primaries were full of flaws, corrupt practices, impositions, manipulations and injusice. I started asking myself whether at the rate the 2019 elecions is going whether there will not be anarchy and bloodshed if something is not promptly done to save this our nascent democracy. I looked at it in another angle and observed that the problems are coming only from two out of the three arms of government. The two I mean are the executive and the legislative arms.

The executive seem to have more power and advantages over the legislature because it controls the police, army and other paramilitary forces and tend to use them to achieve their purposes and intentions whether good or bad. On the other hand, the legislative arm tried to prove to the executive that they are equal in democracy as practiced in other countries, that is the presidential system, by resisting pressure and dictates from the executive arm. This power play plays out in the arrests of some members and their trials in our courts of law. This is the beauty of democracy.

I am very happy that both arms realized that the judicial arm is the last bus stop. Since they realized this, I wish to ask if they truly respect and have the absolute confidence on the abilities of the courts fully given the autonomy and free hand to operate without interference and influence from these other arms of government. I ask this because the adage says that he who blows the pipe dictates the tune.

The judicial arm of government should please at this crucial time of our democracy, which to me appears not to be stable show that it is the final bus stop to ensure fearless justice is given, but one that will not divide this country but make it progress peacefully. My observation of the judicial arm recently shows that the judiciary is poised to bring peace and unity in the country by all means within its powers.

I am not saying this because I am a lawyer but based on facts. For instance an honourable judge in Rivers state was very bold to give a ruling against the party in power and even stated boldly that: nobody is above the law of the land. I am very sure that with the honest and respected judges in our court today, never mind the negative impression earlier given about it, the Judiciary is very set and ready to save this nation from the raging wars between the other two arms of government- the executive and the legislature.

Just like the respected and honorable judge in Rivers state was bold to show that separation of power and rule of law was to be upheld, I look on the judiciary to please not allow itself to be controlled by these politicians who will turn around later to tag it as the most corrupt arm of government.

I wish to see the judiciary that will be fearless, upright and bold to give prompt and just judgment concerning the numerous political cases now in almost all of the courts in the federaion.The judiciary should realize that its relationship with the execuive and legislaive arms of government is like master-master relationship and not master-servant relationship.

Even the judiciary appears to be a more superior master who acts like a lord over its creations. It has the power of life and death in its hand and must apply it properly now to save our country at the point of political constitution.

The Lord does not lie or be influenced in judging people, according to our religious book, likewise our judges

who are lords on earth should be respected and seen to be exactly acting as lord.

However the judges should monitor the staff in the courts who in some cases are influenced to give the honorable judges a bad name for offensive they did not commit. I am not saying that there are no bad eggs in any set-up but 5% bad does not make the rest 95% good to be bad and corrupt.

The tribunals should reduce the work of the courts by giving upright rulings acceptable to all at the time of our political confusion. Now that the primaries are gone and names of the party preferred candidates submitted to INEC even with widespread protests that appointments and not elections were held.

This imposition of candidates was in most cases done with impunity not minding the interest of the electorate who have more power than the party execuive, one wonders the type of elections the parties are planning to undergo.

Are the elections going to be free and fair or full of corrupt practices as is widely suspected by some opponents and members of the electorate? Is it going to be that in which the favored party will speak with impunity?

As they say boastfully, if you’re not satisfied with the outcome go to court; as if they control the outcome of the election.

For this reason, one appeals to the judiciary to ensure the dispensation of cases speedily and with all fairness as it is known to do and ensure that no one is above the law. In the past, the judiciary (court) was very highly respected and feared. If someone said that he was taking another person to court, that person would be so frightened but now it is not so.

It is my view that the judiciary should correct the wrong impression given about it by present day politicians by dealing with cases boldly and fearlessly and with any politician no mater his stature, who feels he can control the judiciary as if it is an arm of their offices or political parties.

This election which appears like a mirage must be made to become a reality and absolutely free and fair through the judicial arm of the separation of power.

Trust the judiciary because it is poised to do jusice and ensure peace and unity in this country and in this present democratic dispensation. It can never be cowed.

The Executive and the legislative arms of the government are now busy with the budget of INEC but forget the most important arm that is relevant to the forthcoming election. The judiciary which is the final umpire in these elections of 2019.

Recently, I read from the media that a judge of one of the Federal High Courts accepted receiving assistance from friends including lawyers to ensure the well being of her mother and she is facing trial. It is true that crime is crime but I wish to ask how well and secure is the condition of service of these judges who ought to be seen as saints and lords in the administration of justice in this country?

Please, as the nation approaches the 2019 general elections and if the nation wants credible, free and fair election in 2019, the welfare of the judiciary should be taken very seriously to prevent any injustice.

Also, the adequate protection and security of the judicial officers against any disturbances and interference of the other arms must be put in place. With this the judges should be fearless and truthful, not minding any government in power.

• Do you have questions or seek legal clarification on issues concerning your marriage, probate, property, etc? Call or send a text message to Barr. Ken: 08162016410, 08075763840. Email: kenakpom@yahoo.com

38

The Oracle Today Wednesday November 7, 2018

ENTERTAINMENT

With Douglas Omoyooma

Why I started teens Hangout What is Caverra World about?

Caverra World is all about inspiring, motivating, and helping teenagers to discover themselves. Most teenagers settle for mediocrity and pledge allegiance to the ordinary because they lack inspiration and motivation. Caverra World helps the teenagers to rediscover their true essence by fanning out their untapped potentials and restructuring their mindset to positive activities.

What led you into the field of Teen coaching and counseling?

The truth is that teenagers need help. Their brains are still developing, so building a positive orientation towards their future is a definite skill. When I was in secondary school, a lot of children with great potentials lost focus at their teenage stage possibly because they had no one to motivate or inspire them to do more. So I decided to be a Teen coach and Teen counselor because I believe that they all have that hidden untapped potential that needs to be fanned out, they need to be stretched to do more and be more. I really want the best for my country Nigeria and it all starts with the teenagers.

Great works of excellence are the products of great thoughts of excellence. Success begins when a positive attitude is adopted. A teenager with with a poor mindset cannot offer any positive contribution to life. A well trained teenager will be a strong and sound youth and a positive leader tomorrow who will not settle for any amoral act. Teenagers must be put right because it all begins with them.

What programs are you currently running for teenagers?

Currently I’m running a program called “Teens Hangout.” The Teens Hangout program is an interactive session between the teen coach and teenagers. I’ve been coaching teenagers for many years all over the country. In Lagos, the latest venue of the Teens Hangout program is at Holy Family Catholic Church, Festac. Presently our Teen Hangout program holds on the first and third Saturday of the month at Holy Family Catholic Church, Festac Town, Lagos, from 12 noon to 2pm. I believe so much in the ability of teenagers. So, I want to make them regain their confidence in life so that they can soar. The theme of our launching coming up on September 1, 2018 is titled: “Discovering Your True Self.” When teens discover who they are, their vision and purpose become clearer and they will be more predisposed to the right choices. The moment the teenagers discover their true selves, they will be more daring, having passion and conviction for who they truly are. The right time to make the right choice is now at the teenage stage.

How do you see the average Nigerian family of today in terms of its relationship with its teenage children?

The average Nigerian family today is not truly doing its job. From several counseling sessions that I have had with teenagers, I can tell that most families are not in a good relationship with their teenage kids. This is because the parents don’t understand their world or their stage of life. So these factors make the teenage kids to distance themselves from their family. Fathers and mothers need to cooperate with each other for the sake of their teenage children and all their other children. I’m from Enugu state but I’m married to Mr Ebele Charles Anijekwu from Anambra state and I’m happy to say that my husband supports me in this my calling or vocation in life.

How are teenagers affected by the high level of poverty and poor economic situation suffered by most Nigerian families today?

They are affected both emotionally and psychologically. That’s why most teenagers

Mrs Roseline Ifebuche Anijekwu is a Teen Coach and Motivational Speaker.

The Enugu-born CEO of Caverra World is the anchor of a popular program called ‘TEENS Hangout’ which is aimed at inspiring and motivating teenagers to achieve excellence and success in life and in their chosen endeavours. In this interview with IRETO TEMOFEH, she tells the story of what led her into the world of Teen Counseling. financially to reach out to the teenagers to help them recapture their essence of true self potentials and activate the right mental attitude to help them excel. Remember that teenagers are motivated mostly by these three factors: friends, freedom and fun.

At every hang out I have with these teenagers, they need to be well entertained. So my organization, Caverra World, truly needs financial help for us to do more to improve the lives of our teenagers. Remember they are the light of the nation. What you put in them now is what they will return back to you when they become youths and leaders of the society.

How can schools, churches and communities help in improving the lives of teenagers?

Schools can help improve the lives of teenagers by inviting teen counselors constantly to inspire and motivate them, by taking them out for Teen Hangouts. Giving them an opportunity to mix up with students from other schools will bring a positive challenge amongst them and would improve them more. Schools should not just limit them to just class works alone.

Churches also should help improve the lives and development of teenagers by celebrating them and making them know that they are important. Organizing some teen shows too will help. Communities can help by applauding them and supporting them financially to see that their lives are improved.

• Mrs Roseline give up in life easily, not minding the unique potential they have. So most teenagers from poor homes who are talented and gifted have gotten so comfortable in settling where they are and appear content with their unacceptable condition. I want every teenage kid in Nigeria to know and believe in themselves. Your poor family background cannot stop you from maximizing your talent. All you need is focus and determination to fly.

What can Teen coaches and Counselors like you really do to restore hope, focus and direction in the lives of teenagers?

This is a work I do with so much passion. I feel very sad and unfulfilled each time I see a teenage child engaged in a negative activity.

I see the teenagers as the hope for a fulfilled nation, the hope for a better nation, the hope for national growth, and the light for change.

As a teenage coach and counselor, I will start first by making them discover who they truly are. In discovering themselves, they will identify their source and also identify their life purpose. So with constant motivation and inspiration, hope for greatness will be restored.

Secondly, I believe that help from the government and other bodies will be needed to help our teenagers excel.

Teenagers need to be challenged and stretched. When we make them see we believe in their abilities, we will always propel them to do more to win.

What are the challenges that you normally face as a teen counselor and how do you overcome these challenges?

As a teen coach and counselor, I do face mainly financial challenges, among others.

Sometimes I see some teenagers who need to be assisted financially. I always do the best I can do to help out. Also, sometimes after counseling, I must put up a call to talk to their parents too. Coming out to inform the public about the challenges that teen counselors face is a wake up call to members of the public and corporate bodies to partner with teen counselors to help our teenage children overcome these challenges; because if more people can assist financially, these challenges will be addressed. Change starts with the teenagers.

Have Nigerian teenagers really been neglected and abandoned by the government?

I can say yes to an extent. Nigerian teens have been neglected because the children’s day is celebrated nationally every year, youths are also recognized and talked about, but the teenagers are not talked about. Remember children are within the ages of 1-12 years, teenagers are from 13-19 years, and youths are from 20 -42 years. So the teenagers have their own stage, because they are not celebrated or talked about, they feel abandoned and neglected.

What can government do to improve the lives of teenagers and secure/safeguard their future?

Government can come in to help improve the lives of teenagers and secure their future by celebrating the teenagers nationally, and by empowering or helping teen counselors

What are your suggestions on how parents and families can cope with teenage/juvenile delinquency and get their teenager children back on the right track?

Parents and families can really help these teenagers get back on the right track by establishing a good relationship with their teenage kids, giving them time and listening to them, celebrating them and making them feel loved. Some parents neglect their teenage kids and make them more susceptible to crime by not making out time for them.

So these teenage children go out to get love from the wrong people. Parents should learn to engage their teenage children in more positive activities. You can cheer them up and challenge them to think more critically. Don’t just give them money always but make them learn how to save and how to make more money. Teenage juvenile/delinquency can be managed by constant motivation and inspiration. These will predispose them to make the right choices in life. This will be better for the society in the future.

Where do you see the Caverra World Teen Hangout program in the next five years?

Well I believe that in the next five years, Caverra World would have brought smiles to a lot of teenagers and their families, and even help to control crime and disorder in the society. The more we continue to motivate and inspire teenagers, the more focused and responsible they will be. So in the next five years, we believe we will be able to reach most states in Nigeria. I really hope to be on TV and radio as soon as possible because it’s through my Teens Hangout show that we can get to connect to all the teenagers out there. My mission is to reach and touch the lives of teenagers so that all teenagers in the society can be transformed by the Caverra World program.

39

The Oracle Today Wednesday November 7, 2018

NEWS Extra 2019: Security, job creation top Abia Charter of Demand

Cross River’s premier toothpick factory begins production

T

T

From BONIFACE OKORO, Umuahia o strengthen the social contract between the people and politicians elected into various offices, stakeholders in Abia State have prepared a Charter of Demand elected leaders are expected to sign up in exchange for the votes of the electorate.

The Charter of Demand, developed at a forum organized by the Transition Monitoring Group (TMG) in Umuahia, prioritises needs of the people required to promote good governance, accelerate infrastructure development and provide the pedestal for the electorate to hold elected leaders accountable.

Top on the Charter are Security, Economy and Poverty Alleviation, Employment, Service delivery, Agriculture and Housing.

The Charter provides that if elected, the governor and lawmakers must ensure security of life and property and support local vigilante groups to shore up security in the state; provide affordable and qualitative healthcare and functional education, improve the environment and ensure open budgeting process that accommodates community needs assessment under Service Delivery.

It also provides that such a governor should provide enabling environment for establishing small and Medium Enterprises in its Economy and Poverty Alleviation sector, while under Employment, he should create jobs, revitalize industries through Public, Private Partnership, reduce multiple taxation and prioritise workers’ welfare through prompt payment of salaries.

On Agriculture, the Charter demands that the governor should revitalize abandoned farm settlements, support rural farmers with soft loans and grants while it should embark on construction of low-cost houses for low income earners in the Housing sector.

The stakeholders, comprising TMG, civil society organizations, women and youth groups, as well as pensioners, said there would be further consultations with religious leaders and traditional rulers before the Charter would be finally produced as a working document which would be presented to candidates vying for various elective offices to endorse Abia State Coordinator of TMG, Nnenna Adaeze Ude, said only those who endorsed the document would receive the support of the electorate.

“This is like the people saying to a candidate for election that we have a need, you have a need. Are you ready to meet our needs, then we will support you,” she said.

Some participants, including Elendu Emmanuel of International Volunteers and Hawkins Emerueh of Rural Transformation and Development Organisation agreed in separate interviews that the Charter would advance the political and physical development of the state, enhance accountability and make politicians to be serious in fulfilling their electioneering promises.

Echoing similar views, ExecutiveDirector, Rural Development Planners International, Richard Okoro, said the Charter would end the era of politicians taking the electorate for granted.

“You know before now, the politicians or our leaders have always had a way of making pre-electioneering promises and at the end of the day, they don’t fulfill them or we don’t hold them accountable to their words.

From ANIEKAN ANIEKAN, Calabar he quest by the incumbent government of Cross River State led by Professor Ben Ayade to industrialise the state appears to be paying off with the commencement of production by the state toothpick factory.

The factory which is one of the numerous industrial concerns being promoted by the state government is located at Ekuri in Yakurr local government area in the central senatorial district of the state.

Christened Paradise toothpick, the factory will produce at least 20 tones of toothpick daily and is also expected to source 100 per cent of its materials locally through the local bamboo sticks which are predominant in the community. This will alleviate the increasing rate of unemployment in the area as well as add value to the lives of the inhabitants in particular and the state in general.

Speaking on the prospects of the factory and its expected benefits to the people of the state, the Managing Director of the factory, Steve Takim said the importance of the factory to the economy of the state as well as its magnanimity cannot be overemphasized.

He maintained that the products from the factory are already in the market and the factory has a solid management base that will stand the test of time in order to sustain the vision of the government to open up the economy of the state through industrialization.

He said, “The sustainability of the project cannot be over emphasis.

Indeed as you can see, we’re in the market, our products are now everywhere ahead of time – an indication to show that we’re serious to keep the factory afloat.

“The management team put in place by the government is made of experience and season profession-

als. So the conception of whether is another political hype where the government may want to score a cheap political point cannot be said to be found with us.

“Our Staff welfare is our priority and are highly paid like any other manufacturing company in the country and salaries are paid on due time up to date.

“The project is sustainable also because our raw materials are highly available and is sourced locally within the catchment area.

“Above all, the overwhelming support of government is all an indication of the sustainability of the company”, he said.

Speaking further, he said a number of youths are already in the workforce of the company and it is expected to reduce the rate of capital flight that leaves the state to China in the name of importation of toothpicks.

“The factory is a leading employer of labour as many youths have been engaged. Already the impact is been felt with the employment of over 30 youths, mostly graduate who are doing well. The economy of the state is been boosted and that of the country at large.

“The capital flight use before for importation of toothpick from China now remains with us. That also is an impact which helps to boost the nation’s economy”, he said.

He said the vision behind the establishment of the factory is not just to serve the needs of the state but the nation and beyond through products from the factory which according to him meets the highest possible standard and can compete with its kind around the world.

“The product will be able to serve the entire nation, adding that the quality is at its best with a world standard. When you talk about factory size, yes, it is large, however, to serve other African countries we need to install more production line and plans are on the way. But for now, our production line is targeted with the country since we have the biggest population in the continent.

“Our quality is none to compare with, that is why with our entrance into the market, and we have distributors all over the country. We strictly observe ISO standard in manufacturing our products”, Takim said.

Anambra PDP restates support for Obi/Atiku, other candidates From Chuks Collins, Awka

• National Airtraffic Communicators Association of Nigeria (NACAN) President, Comrade Nkambo George presenting an award to the Executive Governor of Edo state, Mr Godwin Obaseki at the 5th Annual General Meeting of NACAN held at Constatial Hotel and suites, Benin City over the weekend.

4,539 graduands, 32 first class set for Uniuyo convocation From Ini Billie, Uyo

A

total of 4,539 graduands among whom will be 32 first class is set to convoke in the 24th Convocation ceremony of the University of Uyo scheduled to hold on 3rd November, 2018.

Speaking on Monday in Uyo, Vice Chancellor of the University, Prof. Enefiok Essien said the convocation ceremony which will be the second to be organised during his tenure is made up of 631 postgraduates, 3,678 undergraduates and 230 sub-degree.

Essien revealed that a posthumous honorary doctorate degree will be awarded to late Dr. Ann Ward, a pioneer Obstetrician and Missionary nun who worked at the specialist unit for Obstetric fistula repair in St. Luke’s Hospital, Anua, Uyo, adding that a delegation from Ireland will be at the convocation.

He said this year’s convocation is unique because it will involve only one stream of graduands unlike the previous year that had more than one stream, noting that the university intends to keep to the tradition of yearly convocation in line with global best practice.

He further explained that in the last one year, the University have had a total of 32 professorial promotions,

hosted a total of 32 conferences, workshops, seminars and symposia and currently has a 100 percent accreditation status for all its programmes.

He added that the university is ranked within the first 20 tertiary institutions in the country and that the National Universities Commission (NUC) thas approved the running of a Bachelor of Education in Educational Technology in the institution following the approval by the resource verification visit of the NUC team in August 2018.

The VC mentioned that the university have continued to strengthen its programmes and have raised it’s Quality Assurance Directorate with the redesignation of the head as a director in it drive to improve standard, adding that the Institute of Health, Safety and Environment has been established as well as a Centre for Deep Dialogue and Critical Thinking.

He noted that plans are on ground to establish African Centre for Computational Intelligence Research (ACCIR) alongside other developmental projects at different stages of completion including ICT phase 1, Central Laboratory, Law main building, Law lecture theatres 1 & 2, Environmental studies studio block amongst others.

He said the university was yet to receive its take off grant and funding

has been the main challenge of the institution, adding that the provision of befitting physical facilities and the payment of staff entitlements rests on it.

He explained that however, the arrears of salary shortfalls for 2017 and other entitlements of staff have been paid.

“The University will ward certificates, diplomas, first degrees, masters and doctoral degrees to graduands who have been adjudged to be suitable in learning and in character. A total of 4,539 graduands will be convoking. This number is made up of 631 postgraduates, 3,678 undergraduates and 230 sub-degree. Thirty two of the undergraduates have 1st class. One honorary doctorate degree will be awarded.

“We have worked tirelessly at the promotion of staff across the categories and levels. The Appointments and Promotions Committees of the various categories of staff ranging from junior through senior to academic have held their meetings most religiously through the period with each meeting producing a robust harvest of promotions. A total of 27 professorial promotions were announced, five more were subsequently announced at the Senate meeting, thus bringing the total number of professorial promotions to 32,” he said.

T

he executive committee of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Anambra state has restated its unflinching support for the joint ticket of the former governor of the state, Mr Peter Obi alongside the party’s presidential flag bearer, Atiku Abubakar.

The chapter also said those who emerged from the various party’s primary elections would have all the support needed to win their elections.

In a release by the state Publicity Secretary -Mr Nnamdi Nwagwu noted that the nomination of Mr Peter Obi as the running mate of Atiku is a prayer answered and dream come true and that members of the party in the state are excited about the development.

That the combination of Atiku and Obi would enjoy a solid backing from the PDP faithful, friends and beyond who love and support the party in the state.

According to the statement: “Over the years, Mr Peter Obi has demonstrated his clear commitment to progressive values, hard work and visionary leadership in support of the common man and the nation. With his youthfulness, energy and knowledge, he has what it takes to be a great vice president.

“We also congratulate all PDP candidates who have emerged in the recently concluded primaries.

We assure every one of our support, as we work hard to get them elected into their various positions.

We cannot think of any better set of candidates than those we have now.” The statement concluded.

40

The Oracle Today Wednesday November 7, 2018

NEWS Extra Enugu Govt. moves Anenih: We’ ve lost a patriotic Nigerian – Okowa to checkmate illegal adoption

E

nugu State Government has recruited and trained 10 social workers to checkmate the activities of illegal adoption in the state.

The Chairman, Enugu State Adoption Committee, His Grace, Most Rev. Emmanuel Chukwuma, made this known in Enugu on Monday at a two-day sensitisation workshop.

Chukwuma said that the workshop was organised by Enugu Ministry of Gender and Social Development in collaboration with adoption committee and network for the prevention and protection against child abuse and neglect.

The bishop commended Gov. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State for making it possible for the state Assembly to pass the Child’s Right Act into Law. He said that the adoption committee had been on their toes to ensure that illegal adoption was done away with in Enugu State.

He stressed that his committee would never give chance for politicians to harvest babies in the name of adoption and use them for rituals.

While declaring the workshop open, the Enugu State Governor who was represented by his deputy, Mrs Cecilia Ezilo stressed the need to care for children who were not fortunate to train under the care of their parent.

Ezilo said that most countries, including Nigeria had adopted the Child’s Right Process to ensure that adoption and fostering children were well taken care of.

She said that the workshop would go a long way in enlightening the public on the importance of adopting legally.

The Commissioner for Gender Affairs and Social Welfare, Mrs Peace Nnaji said that the workshop was apt, especially as the Child’s Right Law had been passed.

Nnaji said that the workshop provided opportunity for the general public to know what adoption it was all about, adding that the adoption needed multi sectional approach to get it right.

The commissioner commended the state governor for appointing men and women of integrity in the adoption committee, saying “it is a critical sector’’.

The chief Judge of Enugu State, Justice Ngozi Emehelu, who was represented by the Deputy Chief Register Enugu State High Court, Mrs Nonye Agbo said that a justice administration was incomplete without the protection of the rights of children.

Agbo said that the state judiciary designated some high courts and magistrate courts as family courts in line with Section 152 of the Child’s Right law of Enugu State.

She said that under the Child’s Right law, the courts had the responsibility of overseeing, fostering and adoption processes in the state.

She said that fostering and adoption of child were similar but the only difference was that adoption needed more detailed and documents than fostering.

Agbo said that courts in Enugu State had jurisdiction to hear and determined all matters concerning adoption and fostering.

She said that sections 108 and 109 of the law made it mandatory that both man and woman interested in adoption or fostering a child must give their concept.

From JONATHAN AWANYAI, Asaba

D

elta State Governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa has commiserated with the family members, the government and the people of Edo State on the death of former Minister of Works, Chief Tony Anenih (CFR), who died on Sunday at 85 years.

Governor Okowa also conveyed his condolences to the family of the late Iyasele of Esanland, describing him as a committed patriot who served our nation at the highest levels with an uncommon sense of patriotism and unwavering dedication.

In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Charles Aniagwu,made available to The Oracle Today in Asaba on Sunday, the Governor said he was saddened by the demise of the former Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).

The statement read: “I am deeply saddened by the death of elder statesman and former Chairman Board of Trustees of the PDP, Chief Tony Anenih (CFR), who passed on at the age of 85 years”.

“He was a committed patriot, an astute politician and a former Minister of Works who worked to better the lots of his people and Nigerians

in general, adding “through his purposeful leadership and development strides, the late Anenih influenced the dualisation of the Benin Asaba road, Benin Warri Road and the Benin bypass road which brought about unprecedented development to the Niger Delta region”.

Governor Okowa remarked that as a democrat, the late Anenih etched his name in the annals of Nigeria’s democratic advancement by working courageously for the emergence and consolidation of the Fourth Republic in 1999 when he joined forces with other leaders to form the Peoples Democratic

Party, PDP. “Before venturing into politics, Chief Anenih retired from the Nigeria Police Force as a Commissioner of Police and bestrode Nigeria’s political landscape like a collossus where he mentored several succesfull politicians across the country.

“His good works as a dedicated family man, selfless politician and great philanthropist as well as his ability to consistently, at every turn, resolve knotty political puzzles would later earn him the sobriquet – “Mr. Fix It” which would continue to live after him”.

“On behalf of my family, the government and people of Delta State, I convey our deepest sympathy to the Anenih family, the people of Uromi and Esan Land, Edo State, and the rest of the country.

“May his soul find eternal repose in the bosom of the Almighty God.” the Governor wrote.

Azikiwe’s Mausoleum project completed 22 years after, says contractor

B • Delta State Governor, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa (m) flanked by President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Mr. Amaju Pinnick and his wife Julie during the commissioning ceremony of the Brown Hill Events Centre, Warri, Friday

2019: Thousands dump APC for PDP in Delta From JONATHAN AWANYAI, Asaba

A

head of the 2019 general elections, Delta State Governor, Senator Dr Ifeanyi Okowa has challenged his opponents to a debate, stating that his opponents visit the state only at periods of elections.

Governor Okowa gave the challenge at a mega rally organised by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Delta North Senatorial District to receive decampees from other political parties at the Kwale Township Stadium, Kwale, Ndokwa West local government area of Delta State.

Former member of House of Representatives, Hon. Mercy Almona-Isei, former running mate to Olorogun Otega Emerhor, the All Progressive Congress (APC) governorship candidate in 2015 general elections, Chief V.O.T. Abanum, Chief Gabriel Mordi, Chief Emma Ogude, Hon. Henry Onianwa, among other leaders of different political parties, led thousands of their followers to join the PDP at the rally.

According to Governor Okowa, “we are praying for debate, they will have nothing to talk about, I am in Delta State, I only left when I went to Ibadan to study Medicine, my opponents will have nothing to say, so they will run away from debate.”

“We cannot deceive ourselves, when you contest election today and after three years and half, a month to election you are back to

Delta State to ask for votes, who do you want to deceive? Even their congresses, they are deceiving themselves; the PDP had a free and fair primary elections,” he said.

“In Port Harcourt, 12 persons contested in the presidential primary election, one person emerged and no one left after the primaries because, we live in love and we believe in God; when you have God, you are not afraid, we are on a solid rock but, those who could not conduct elections are on sinking sand; no matter what they do, we are not afraid,” Governor Okowa stated.

He assured, “we will win in all the places, even when they conduct the elections severally, we will win them, they are in dissarrray, campaign is yet to commence and they have several cases in different courts, that is not how an organised political party should be.”

The governor who received the decampees said, “I must thank all of you for coming to this rally, I must thank all our brothers and sisters who are returning to our party, you are welcome back home.”

Governor Okowa’s Deputy, Barr.

Kingsley Otuaro, Chairman of the PDP in the state, Barr. Kingsley Esiso, Hon. Solomon Funkekeme, Prof. Sam Oyovbaire, among others in their separate goodwill message stated that the PDP will get 100 per cent votes in the state.

Hon. Gabriel Mordi significantly tore his APC membership card, saying the achievements of Governor Okowa was attracting members of the opposition political parties to

the PDP. Coordinator of Atikulated Agenda 2019, Chief Greg Onah and PDP chieftain, Dr. Tabs OgaranyaTabowe described the success of the rally as good signal that Governor Okowa has endeared himself to Deltans through his people-oriented projects.

In a related development, Peoples Democratic Party chieftain, Chief Sunny Onuesoke has thrown his weight behind recent call by Delta State Governor, Dr Ifeanyi Okowa challenging his opponents in 2019 Delta State governorship election to public debate.

Speaking to The Oracle Today by the sideline during the rally, Onuesoke affirmed that he is not only fully in support of Okowa, he has equally promised to foot the organization and bill of the debate if giving the opportunity to do so.

He said such debate would give the Governor the opportunity to expose his monumental achievements in infrastructures, human capital development, education, security and health among others.

Onuesoke however stated that the laudable achievements already made by Governor Ifeanyi Okowa would earn him a second term in 2019 governorship election.

He argued that those contesting the Della State governor election with Okowa are no match hence none has acquired the administrative and governance skill of Okowa that has entrusted him dearly to the heart of the people of Delta state.

ouygues Construction Nigeria Limited (BNL) the firm handling the late Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe’s Mausoleum, says work is completed on the project.

Project Manager of the firm, Mr John Ameh, made the disclosure in an interview with News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Onitsha on Monday.

NAN reports that the project initiated by Federal Government in honour of the first president of Nigeria came to completion, 22 years after its initial commencement.

Ameh said that the project was ready for handover.

NAN reports that Mr Babatunde Fashola, the Minister of Power, Works and Housing, had told the contractor in May to ensure the completion of the project before the end of October.

The minister had expressed dissatisfaction over the slow pace of work and threatened to revoke the contract, if the contractor failed to deliver on schedule.

Ameh however said that “It was actually completed towards the end of September.

“We met the minister’s deadline of October ending, but because the client has not taken over, we cannot just lock up the place and leave for security reasons.

“We wrote on Oct. 11, notifying them to come and take over the project. They are likely to visit this week.”

He described the Mausoleum as a “land mark project’’ for the people of South-East and the administration of President Mohammadu Buhari.

According to him, it is a project that has spanned so many administrations before it was awarded to BNL in 2014 while work started in 2015.

“This administration was courageous enough to take it to completion and should be commended,” he said.

NAN reports that Zik as he was fondly called, was also the first Premier of Eastern Nigeria and founder of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN).

41

The Oracle Today Wednesday November 7, 2018

NEWS Physically-challenged persons to immortalize Chinua Achebe, Nwizu From Chuks Collins, Awka

P

ersons living with disabilities (PLWDs) in the South Eastern States of Abia, Anambra, Enugu, Ebonyi and Imo under the auspices of the Initiative for Eradication of Poverty and Empowerment of the Disabled (IFEPED) have launched a campaign to immortalize late Prof Chinua Achebe and Chimezue Nwizu.

The representatives of the group who addressed journalists at the Cathedral Church of St Mary, Uruagu Nnewi, Anambra State, venue for the launch of their magazine, almanac and the project yesterday, led by its president and founder- Mr Victor Clifford said that the physically-challenged chose to immortalize late the Achebe as a literary icon from Anambra State who made a great impact in the literary world.

According to him, the immortalization would take the form of setting up a platform called Chinua Achebe Literary Writers for the purposes of forming a group of writers amongst the physically challenged who would assist one another in literary profession like writing of books, editing, publication and book launch.

Also, Nwizu who he said died as the leader of people living with disabilities in Orlu, Imo State would be immortalized with Chimezie Nwizu Competition to be an avenue to empower the youths through sports and academics, using the Ministry of Youth and Sports and Ministry of Education of various States in the South East as facilitators.

To enable the physically challenged achieve a level of self-reliance, Clifford explained that IFEPED has produced 2,000 copies of the group’s magazine and 3,000 copies of its almanac to be launched in the five South Eastern states.

“Change begins when one makes a change within and outside oneself.

Therefore, change begins with you and me. If IFEPED has not taken the risk of establishing its magazine for a better world and produced 2,000 copies of it and 3,000 copies of its almanac at the cost of N1,345,000, the aim of visiting all the five States of South East to launch them would not have been achieved.

“If late Professor Chinua Achebe and Chimezie Nwizu had not made themselves notable in society, they would not have been immortalized

by IFEPED. If the Zarephath woman in the Bible had not taken the risk of giving Prophet Elijah part of the remaining food in her home, she would not have received favour from God,” he postulated.

They also proposed to establish a permanent office in Enugu State where it would create different departments for charity, trust fund and publicity for the purposes of empowerment, poverty alleviation to reduce crime in society.

He therefore appealed to Governors of the five States of the South East and other philanthropists to assist IFEPED to establish office of Chinua Achebe Literary Writers in all the five States and sponsorship of Chimezie Nwizu Competition in academics and sports.

Rev Canon Dan Okeke called for support for the physically challenged in society. He noted that some people had a wrong opinion of them “but most of them work harder and are more determined to survive. They must be encouraged.”

Border clashes: Ex-Ebonyi commissioner tasks FG on boundary demarcations

A

former commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters in Ebonyi, Chief Mathias Adum, has urged the Federal Government (FG) to embark on proper boundary demarcations to end border clashes in Nigeria.

Adum also former commissioner for Commerce and Industry in Ebonyi spoke at a news conference in Abakaliki on Friday.

Adum, a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Senatorial candidate for Ebonyi North senatorial district was reacting to the recent border clash between Ebonyi and Benue communities.

The border clash between the Ngbo community in Ohaukwu local government area of Ebonyi and the Agila people of Benue state led to the death of no fewer than six people.

The killings, it was gathered, occurred when one of the feuding communities invaded two villages in the other community at night.

Adum said that the two border communities had been embroiled in a protracted bitter land tussle with many people killed.

The former commissioner who condemned the wanton killing and destruction of property said that only proper boundary demarca-

• Members of the ECOWAS Network of Electoral Commissions (ECONEC), including the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Acting Chairman, Dr Mustapha Lecky, and Prof Mahmood Yakubu, president of the ECONEC governing board and Chairman of INEC in a group photograph after their recent media workshop

Obi: We’ll congratulate him after his election, says Obiano From Chuks Collins, Awka

T

he Anambra State Governor, Willie Obiano, has explained why the state government could not congratulate his predecessor, Mr Peter Obi, on his nomination as the vice presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

The stance was contrary to the wild jubilation that erupted across the state, when Obi who almost single-handedly installed Gov Obiano as his successor in the Nov 16,2013 poll in the state. The seeming tardy silence of the incumbent has left a sour taste in the mouth of watchers of Anambra politics.

However, Obiano who spoke through his Special Adviser on political matters, Ifeatu Obi-Okoye

said there was nothing to celebrate at this stage.

Obi-Okoye stated, “Let’s get something clear; I don’t think Peter’s nomination as VP candidate calls for any congratulatory message. If he becomes the vice president, we will congratulate him.

“We ( APGA) are running for the presidential election against PDP and we fielded a candidate who we believe can win the the PDP candidate, so we have no reason to celebrate Obi. Otherwise, we are saying we have already acknowledged that they will defeat us.

“But I want to say as you have mentioned that as someone who is from here, and who was in APGA, that if by any chance Obi becomes a VP, we will congratulate

him. For now, we are in the trench, planning how we can win the election for APGA. “You may not believe that we have chances, so also would you not have believed that a footballer would become the president of Liberia, or would you not have believed that the current president of Ghana would have defeated an incumbent.

While saying there would be surprises in the 2019 polls, Obiano said nobody should rule out the chances APGA in the race.

“There are so many factors that will play out in 2019,the ethnic factor, security factor, the lack of governance, the inability of politicians to keep faith with the people.

What we should all watch out for is that the election is not rigged.

2019: INEC unveils remaining activities From Chuks Collins, Awka

T

he Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, has unveiled the remaining schedule of political activities for the coming Feb 2019 general elections in the country.

These include: *Oct 18, 2018-last day for the submission of Forms CF001 and CF002 to INEC HQ. This particular activity is for all categories of elections. *Oct 25,2018- for the publication of personal particulars of candidates (CF001) *Presidential and National Assem-

bly *Nov 9, 2018-Governorship and State Assembly Nov 17, 2018- the last day for withdrawal by candidates/replacement by political parties. *Presidential and National Assembly *Dec 1,2018- Governorship and State House of Assembly Dec 3,2018-Last day for submission of Nomination Forms *-Presidential and National Assembly. *Dec 17,2018 Governorship and State Assembly Nov 18-Commencement of Campaigns *for Presidential and National Assembly elections

*Dec 1,2018-Governorship and state Assembly elections Feb 1,2018-Submission of names of party agents for election to Electoral Officers of the LGAs *Presidential and National Assembly; *Feb 16,2019-Governorship and State Assembly *Feb 14,2019 - Last day of campaigns*for Presidential and National Assembly election; *Feb 26,2019 -Governorship and State Assembly Feb 16, 2019-Date of electionsPresidential and National Assembly; Feb 28,2018-Governorship and State Assembly

tions could end the incessant border clashes and end the senseless killings.

He noted that the FG had made many unsuccessful attempts in the past to address the lingering border disputes between the two communities insisting that only proper boundary demarcations could solve the lingering dispute.

He requested the FG through the National Boundary Commission (NBC) to hasten the process of boundary demarcations in the area as well as areas with similar boundary disputes in Ebonyi and other parts of the country.

“I want to urge the FG through the National Boundary Commission to hasten action on this boundary demarcation between Ebonyi and Benue.

“The FG should do same for Cross River and Ebonyi and in which every part of the country that boundary disputes constituted nuisance.

“Where ever there is boundary problem, they should go ahead and resolve it. We should be talking about our country, we need peace, we need unity and we need political and economic growth in this country.

“All these localised killings in this country are giving us bad name in the international community and within the country and it is not good. Whether it is politically or religiously motivated it is not good at all.

“Nigeria has come to stay, it is a country where everybody should be enjoying because God has given us all manner of resources both human and material,” Adum said.

He urged the FG to garner the political will to go all out to demarcate boundaries among border communities as panacea to incessant boundary clashes.

“What the FG needs is the political will to do proper boundary demarcations because states didn’t create themselves. The federal government did without giving clear cut boundary demarcations and this is what is generating friction and crisis.

“No state in Nigeria created itself. The FG which created various states through military fiat out of one Nigerian entity should go ahead and demarcate the boundaries. Let there be known boundaries; from one house to another there is a boundary, from one neighbour to another, there is a boundary.

“From one compound to another there is a boundary, why is it that in the various states you don’t have clear cut boundaries? Whether there is cultural affinity between the states there must be boundary; everybody should know the boundary between one state and another clearly stated”, he added.

42

The Oracle Today Wednesday November 7, 2018

NEWS

APGA leadership biased, unfair – Ohakim

F

ormer Imo Governor, Ikedi Ohakim has condemned the activities of the National Working Committee (NWC) of the All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA), especially in the conduct of primary elections.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Ohakim made the condemnation while interacting with newsmen in Owerri, the Imo state capital on Friday.

The governor described as `undemocratic’ the manner in which the NWC of APGA had been running the activities of the party, especially in Imo. Ohakim, who was accompanied by other aggrieved aspirants, also condemned the process that produced Mr Ifeanyi Araraume, whom the party’s NWC currently recognizes as its governorship flag bearer for the 2019 election in Imo. According to him, there was no primary election whatsoever. Araraume was imposed on the party after an undemocratic process that saw him forge fictitious scores for other aspirants and concocted signatures of purported agents of the aspirants.

“For the NWC to have accepted that fake result means that it is biased and unfair and that spells doom for the party ahead of the 2019 election,” Ohakim said.

Also speaking, another aggrieved aspirant, Mr Ike Ibe, expressed displeasure over what he described as `hijacking of the people’s will’.

Ibe called on the people of the state and Nigerians at large to resist any attempt on imposition of candidates.

“We must not tolerate impunity.

The NWC of our party has taken sides with impunity and it is condemnable.

“I, therefore, call on Nigerians especially the good people of Imo state to resist imposition of candidates and subversion of the people’s will,” he said.

It will be recalled that the APGA primaries in Imo slated for Oct. 5 did not hold due to absence of electoral materials.

An election which was to take place at about 11p.m on Oct. 7 was, however, boycotted by all governorship aspirants of the party except Araraume who later emerged as winner.

• Ohakim

33 First Class Akwa Ibom varsity graduates remain unemployed - Investigation

By Peter Udiong

A

ll is not well in Akwa Ibom State University, Ikot Akpaden as the ‘man-no-man’ syndrome enthroned in place of academic standards may stifle the school’s effort in attaining global academic excellence, investigations have shown.

A total of 33 students of the institution said to have bagged First Class degrees during the 2014/2015 and 2015/2016 academic sessions have not been offered automatic employment, contrary to the universities’ tradition to offer them automatic job except the recipients decline the offer.

So far, the graduates are said to be wallowing in the over-crowded labour market as the university never offered them the opportunity for them to accept or turn down.

However, Professor Ibanga instead of employing the first graduates of the institution is alleged to have gone ahead and employed graduates of other universities with second class degrees mostly into the Engineering Faculty.

Also, the institution has not redeemed automatic overseas schol-

arship offered the two first class graduates in Biological Sciences and Physics of 2014/2015 academic session by the ex-governor Godswill Akpabio administration.

Though the graduates got N1 million, courtesy of the then governor, the university under the leadership of Professor Ibanga has not implemented the state government’s pledge of automatic overseas scholarship to the graduates.

An insider confided in our reporter that the graduates went online and secured admissions in some foreign universities only for the institution to turn down the admission letters on the pretext that there was no money.

A reliable source close to the school told our correspondents that though the university offered jobs to the two, the graduates later sought admission in some Nigerian universities and proceeded for their Master’s degrees.

The Vice Chancellor is alleged to have sent his biological children to overseas universities while those who bagged first class degrees have been barred from the gesture owing to the institution’s obnoxious and oppressive policies.

“The children are trained overseas on AKSU Staff Development programme through Tertiary Education Trust Fund. TETFUND pays school fees, living expenses and other academic expenses to his children while they are in the payroll of the university receiving full salaries (basic and allowances),” an insider told us.

Ibanga is further accused of promoting tribalism to the high heavens. For instance, he witch-hunted and rusticated the President of Students Union Government said to be of Annang tribe over flimsy issues but preserve any person from Ibibio, his tribe.

The Vice Chancellor is accused to have terminated the appointment of an Annang son, overseas-trained writer, and composer of the orchestra of the anthem currently used in the school over frivolous issue without any compensation, though the matter is pending in the court of law.

Yet, he surreptiously restored with promotion a lecturer (name withheld) in Public Administration, his kinsman from Mkpat Enin who officially resigned his appointment from the services of the university to join politics only to return after failing nomination.

• Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Dr Emmanuel Ekuwem (r), representing the Akwa Ibom State Governor, Udom Emmanuel, declaring open the just-concluded two-day Federal and States Security Administrators Meeting at the Eemjm Hotel in Uyo

‘Crocodile Smile 3’ will guarantee hitchfree carnival, security in C’River -- Ayade From ANIEKAN ANIEKAN, Calabar

C

ross River State governor, Professor Ben Ayade has commanded the Nigerian Army for launching the ‘Crocodile Smile 3’ in the state stressing that it will guarantee a hitch-free carnival as well as a secure end of year festivities in the state.

The governor made this known at Ikang in Bakassi local government area of the state during the official launching of the exercise in the state.

Professor Ayade who was clad in military uniform was accompanied by members of the state executive council as well as a number of personnel of the various security organisations in the state.

The governor maintained that criminals who intend to have a field day during the festivities will now know that the security agencies is ready to contend with them and the exercise will enhance the state’s security in particular as well as the nation in general.

According to him, “The crocodile smile 3 is an opportunity to tell the world that cross river state will be safe for the carnival as well as the end of year festivities.

“Criminals who choose to perpetuate crime in the state will now know that the country is prepared to contend with them”, he said.

He commended the president Buhari for prioritizing funding of the military as well as the military for its discipline and professionalism over the years.

He said with the launch of the exercise, the problem posed by the influx of refugees from neighbouring Cameroon into the state will be appropriately addressed and said the inclusion of humanitarian services by the military during the exercise is well thought out.

Also speaking, the Chief of Army Staff Gen. Tukur Buratai said the exercise is primarily a training exercise intended to provide an opportunity for soldiers and other security agencies to display their proficiency.

Gen Buratai who was represented

by the GOC commanding the 82 division Maj. Gen. Emmanuel Kabuk said the exercise has been carefully crafted by the military headquarters to reflect the peculiarities of the region as well prepare a conducive environment in the region.

He said: “The exercise is primarily a training intended to provide an opportunity for soldiers and other security agencies within 13 brigades to display their proficiency.

“The exercise will cover the land as well as the creeks and will include mobile patrol, cordon and search and other operations that will make it a success. Others include civilmilitary operations, health outreach and renovation of schools and are designed as part of the military’s efforts to impact the society positively”, he said.

He said the objective is to ensure peace and security in Cross River state and the whole idea is to deal with criminals and personnel should always be conscious of the adversary who are equally well trained.

He has enthroned nepotism to an unprecedented level. His wife, Dr. Ebi was recently elevated from Deputy Registrar to Director of Human Resources, a position that prepares her for Registrar of the institution.

This, it is said, is done with the hope for her to become AKSU Registrar in a matter of short time while he remains the Vice Chancellor, whose tenure will expire in the first quarter of 2020.

However, efforts to reach Prof.

Ibanga, the Vice Chancellor proved abortive as he did not respond to our several calls even text messages as at the time of going to the press.

Even the state commissioner of Education, Professor Innocent Inoka who is also a member of the Governing Council of the university could not be reached.

2019: Killings in Middle Belt remain serious election issue -- Ex-APGA chieftain From Chuks Collins, Awka

T

he immediate past National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Grand Alliance,(APGA) Ifeatu Obi-Okoye has said that the killings in the middle belt will surely be an election issue in the 2019 presidential poll.

Obi-Okoye who is the aide to the Governor Willie Obiano on Political Matters spoke with journalists in Awka, said the current happenings in the zone was critical and serious to be ignored by any political party in the race.

He said that was why APGA decided to pick its presidential candidate, a retired major general John Gbor, from the Middle belt area.

He said: “We chose our presidential candidate from the middle belt for very strategic reasons. There is something going on in the middle belt states today, namely Plateau, Benue, Nasarawa and Taraba. In those states, we have very strong governorship candidates who are all Christians.

“Today in the Middle Belt, it is no longer about party politics; it is about survival of the middle belt people who are threatened by the Fulani herdsmen. The ordinary Middle Belt man believes that if he does not fight back, he will be wiped out.

“So we have fielded our presidential candidate from there, believing that we will be able to gather strong support in the middle belt because that geopolitical zone will determine next president of Nigeria.

The ex-APGA image maker predicted that the 2019 presidential election would not be won on the first ballot, adding that in the circumstance, his party would be the determining force.

He said, “In the event that we(APGA) cannot win the presidential election, I can tell you that when we win the middle belt, none of the two major parties for the election will win at the first ballot.

“I make this permutation, not out of euphoria. The defunct NPP played same role when it controlled the area of the old Plateau and Gongola areas and NPN could not win the presidential election in the first ballot, neither could UPN, so it required the alliance of the NPN and NPP to form a federal government at the centre.

“What it means is that, APGA will be the party to determine who wins the presidential election between APC and PDP in 2019.”

43

The Oracle Today Wednesday November 7, 2018

NEWS

NPoC boss decries poor birth registration rate in Cross River From ANIEKAN ANIEKAN, Calabar

T

he Cross River State Director of the National Population Commission (NPoC), Bassey Eteng has decried the poor rate of birth registration in the state stressing that compared to other states, Cross River has continued to trail behind in the endeavour.

The state Director made this known in Calabar during the official flag off of the campaign for birth registration in the state.

He stressed that right from the commencement of the exercise in the country in 1992, the state has not risen above 35% attributing this to ignorance, low public knowledge among the people particularly those who reside in the rural areas.

According to the state director, “Some states have continued to trail behind in the Birth Registration endeavour. Cross River State is, unfortunately, one such states, with coverage not rising above 35% since the programme began in 1992, this is very poor compared to other states.

“Our investigations have revealed that this abysmal performance of the state is due to the very low public knowledge base of birth registration. Many Cross Riverians, especially in rural areas, are ignorant of birth registration. Those who are aware attach very little value to the birth certificate”, he said.

He underscored the need for the campaign stressing that it is needed in order to change the narrative in the state and solicited the support of the state government particularly in the area of logistics to reverse this negative trend in the state.

“Part of the challenge we have had is the logistics and low manpower to permeate the many hard to reach areas of the state. We are looking to the government for support in this area to enable us to achieve our goal of elevating Cross River from its current 5th out of six states in the South-South to an enviable 1st position”, he said.

Enumerating the benefits of birth registration, he said a complete and accurate Vital Registration Sys-

tem in the state will be a boost to the population figure of the state in general. This is fundamental to accurate sectoral planning, allocations, data for planning in education, health, social security and for the provision of consumer goods and services.

In his keynote address, the Deputy Governor of the State, Professor Ivara Esu underscored the imperative of the exercise in the state stressing that the state government is committed to ensuring the success of the campaign as well as reversing the state’s poor birth registration rate.

He said to demonstrate the commitment of the government to ensuring the success of the exercise, the government through the State Ministries of Health and Education signed Memoranda of Association (MOUs) in 2017 to concretize the collaboration with the NPC. He enjoined all stakeholders to join hands with the National Population Commission to make the three months media campaign a huge success for the benefit of children in the state and also ensure that birth registration is firmly rooted in the psyche of the people.

• Representative of Rivers State Governor and Chief of Staff, Engr Chukwuemeka Woke receiving relief materials donated by Agip Nigeria through her representative, Inei Letam Saronwiyo for flood victims on Monday

Osisioma pipeline explosion: Senate Committee tasks Abia Govt on right of way

C

hairman, Senate Joint Committee on Downstream Petroleum and Police Affairs, Sen. Kabiru Marafa, has asked the Abia gGvernment to make the right of way around the pipelines in the state to be safer and better.

Marafa made the call on Friday when members of the Senate Joint Committee on Downstream Petroleum and Police Affairs paid Gov. Okezie Ikpeazu of Abia a courtesy visit in Umuahia.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the committee was in the state on a one-day working visit to conduct an on-thespot assessment of the pipeline explosion site.

He urged the state government to expedite action in ensuring that the right of way as it concerns the pipelines running through the state was treated as a matter of urgent attention.

According to him, addressing the issue of right of way as it concerns the pipelines that run through the state is an efficient way to avert disaster in the state.

“We have grilled some members of the NNPC, especially the Nigerian Storage and Pipeline Company.

I don’t want to preempt anything, but a lot of questions need to be answered by the authorities concerned.

“I think something needs to be done about the right of way. People building indiscriminately along the pathway of the pipeline, I think is something you need to take up.

“We will take it up and find out what the right of way is supposed to be. If people continue to build in the right of way, we will have ourselves to blame,” Marafa said.

Responding, Ikpeazu said that the secrecy surrounding the pumping of petroleum products

through the pipelines ought to be expunged.

“Information concerning when the product is pumped should be made known so that the Police and Civil defence would be on ground and the community would be on alert.

“There should be a helicopter monitoring the pipeline from the point where the product originates to the point of discharge. It will make it easier if it is done this way.

“It seems to me that the motive of some of the people in the downstream section of NNPC overrides the need for precaution and safety.”

The governor appealed to members of the National Assembly to lend their voices towards ensuring that the problem of pipeline explosion in the nation was checked from the source.

A.R. MBANEFO

I formerly known as ANI CLETUS now wish to be known as ANI CLETUS SUNDAY. All former documents remain valid. Please Banks and General Public take note.

I Formerly known as PATRICK VICTORIA now wish to be known as PATRICK VICTORIA UKAMAKA; my date of birth is JULY 13, 1992 not AUGUST 23, 1990. All former documents remain valid. Banks and general public take note

I formerly known as UNOBUAGHA UZOAMAKA MELVINA now wish to be known as DIMONYEKA UZOAMAKA MELVINA. All former documents remain valid. Banks and General public take note.

Builders of irresistible structures Architects, Surveyors, Estate & Real Estate Agents

I formerly known as ANI DANIEL now wish to be known as ANYIM DANIEL MADUABUCHI. All former documents remain valid.Banks and General public take note.

I formerly known as EZEOBI CHRISTIAN now wish to be known as EZEOBI ONYEDIKA CHRISTIAN. All former documents remain valid. Banks and General public take note.

I formerly known as NWEKE ELIZABETH UKAMAKA now wish to be known and addressed as ONYEGBU ELIZABETH UKAMAKA. Born on 27th June, 1959. Former documents remain valid. Banks and General public take note.

I formerly known as ORLANDO JULIUS now wish to be known as NWONU JULIUS CHIDERAH. All former documents remain valid.

Banks and General public take note.

I formerly known as MISS NWOSU CHINWENMERI VICTORY now wish to be known as DR. MRS CHINWENMERI VICTORY ACTOSUN EKWEREMADU. All former documents remain valid. Banks and General public take note.

I, formerly known as NNENNA EBUN KALU now wish to be known as NNENNA EBUN AINA. All former documents remain valid. Banks and general public, take note.

I, formerly known as UGOMMA LUCIA EMEROLE now wish to be known as UGOMMA LUCIA ACHUSIM. Imo State University, Owerri, WAEC, Banks and the general public should please take note.

This Space is for sale

This Space is for sale

• Gov Ayade

THE ORACLE BUSINESS ARENA

COMPANY LTD

OFFICE ADDRESS: 66 Owerri Road Okigwe Imo State.

TEL: 08038701980

CHANGE OF NAME

44

The Oracle Today Wednesday November 7, 2018

NEWS Wike compensates traders of burnt Fruit Garden Market

R

ivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike on Saturday redeemed his pledge to compensate traders of the burnt Fruit Garden Market Port Harcourt , as he handed over bank drafts to them.

Also on Saturday, the Rivers State Government flagged off the reconstruction of the burnt section of the Fruit Garden Market. The foundation stone was laid by the Ebonyi State Governor, Engineer Dave Umahi.

Speaking before presenting the bank drafts to the affected traders, Governor Wike stated that traders with shops got N400,000 (four hundred thousand naira) while traders who operate as attachment got N300, 000 (Three Hundred Thousand naira) He said: “Today, Government will compensate you, so that you can pick up your lives. We have the bank drafts because we don’t want you to be targeted by criminals. Go to the banks, open accounts and expand your businesses”.

The governor charged the contractors to ensure that the market is completed within the next three months.

“We have paid 60percent of the contract sum. So, this market must be completed in three months. We have the funds to complete the market in record time.

“We are building a bigger and more beautiful market . All the affected traders must have their shops back, before the remaining shops are allocated to others “, he said.

He said that governance is about trust and keeping to promises. He said that the Mile One Market was burnt under the Amaechi administration, but that administration failed to rebuild the market, despite promising the traders.

He said during the campaign, he pledged to reconstruct the Mile One Market, pointing out that the market will be ready by December.

Ebonyi State Governor, Engineer Dave Umahi praised Governor Wike for his commitment to the rapid development of the state. He said that Governor Wike has proved to be a lover of his people through unending roll out of projects.

He said while others are thinking of the next election, Governor Wike is imitating newer projects for his people.

“Wike has continued to plan projects for his people. He is building up treasure for himself in heaven and touching the lives of his people.

“You may not understand what Wike is doing until you visit other states. In Rivers State, the people are filled with gratitude for the good works”, Umahi said.

He said Governor Wike is a great leader with a golden heart. He urged Rivers people to continue to support Governor Wike.

He said: “Because he is God-fearing and nobody can uproot Governor Wike “.

Special Adviser to the Rivers State Governor on Special Projects, Mr Daks George Kerley stated that market will have open and lock up shops.

He said that the market will have a perimeter fence, a car park, warehouses and security features for the protection of the market.

Mayor of Port Harcourt City Local Government Area, Mr Victor Ihunwo Nyeche thanked the Rivers State Governor for coming to the aid of the affected.

He stated that the traders will repay the Rivers State Governor in 2019 by overwhelming re-electing him.

Highpoint of the occasion was the handing over of the bank drafts to the affected traders by the Rivers State Governor.

U.S based Nigerian professionals back Atiku/Obi candidacy N igeria’s top professionals from across fields gathered at the exclusive Summerlin suburb of Las Vegas as Medical Director at the Grand Desert Medical Services, Dr. Chinyere Okeke, availed her home to host a ‘meet and greet’ event when Hon. Sam Egu, the Assistant director (South East) of the Atiku Campaign Organization came calling, last weekend.

The Nigerian profesionals who have remained concerned about the state of the nation were present to discuss the way forward especially as how they can contribute to the imminent turn-around of Africa’s most populous nation.

As guest speaker, Hon Greg Egu, stressed the importance of diaspora Nigerians, whose financial remittances have been the major back bone of Nigerians back home.

He said” “Your influence on the people you support with money back home will is a major asset, since you can easily influence more people back home vote for candidates you believe in.” He urged them to take more interest in and participate more in Nigerian politics.

Some of the burning issues on the minds of the diaspora Nigerian professionals bothered on the restructuring of Nigeria, free and fair 2019 elections, turning the economy around and voting rights for Nigerians in the diaspora.

The issue of restructuring Nigeria is of interest to majority, with the hope that devolution of powers to the states and local governments will create more sources of income for the country as a whole, instead of the total dependence on oil states will be forced to develop

other sources of income.

“His Excellency Atiku Abubakar has been favorable to the restructuring of Nigeria” said Egu, while fielding questions.

“As a northerner and businessman with interest in many states across the country, he is one of the most liberal politicians in Nigeria. His clamor for restructuring dates back to 15 years ago. He understands the need, so that more states’ can get to develop its resources instead of waiting for monthly allocations from Abuja.”

Egu emphasized that this system is working perfectly well in the US, where the states and counties are in charge of education, agriculture, power and others, while the federal government is saddled with few things like security, customs, immigration, interventions and a few others.

• Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike handing over bank drafts to compensate traders of the burnt Fruit Garden Market Port Harcourt, Saturday, and flagging-off the reconstruction of the burnt section of the Market with the foundation stone was laid by the Ebonyi State Governor, Engineer Dave Umahi

Ndigbo desire Nigeria driven by equity, meritocracy -- Ohaneze Ndigbo

P

resident General of Ohaneze Ndigbo, Chief Nnia Nwodo says the people of South East Nigeria desire a Nigeria driven by equity, merit and fairness to all citizens.

Nwodo said this on Tuesday in Enugu during the Business Conference of Ohaneze Ndigbo in the Diaspora organised by the Igbo World Assembly (IWA).

Ohaneze Ndigbo is the apex socio-cultural orgainsation of Ndigbo while IWA is made up of members of the organization in the Diaspora with membership in 37 countries.

Nwodo, who presented the keynote address, cautioned the people of the area, especially the youths against falling to antics of anyone or groups that would want to incite them against the country.

He said that his position had been that Nigerians were better together, adding that Ndigbo considering the investments they had made in the country would have a better deal in such conflagration.

The president general also advised the people of the zone to take advantage of the 2019 general elections to support a government

that would change the narrative in the country.

Nwodo said that the yearning of majority of Nigerians was to institute a system of government that would re-engineer the economy akin to what obtained in the first republic.

He said that the only way to achieve this was to restructure the system of governance.

“Four zones out of the six in the country have set the agenda for restructuring. I appeal to our people to go out and vote during the election because your warfare is your vote,” he said.

Nwodo said that he looked forward to a time when the children of highly placed politicians in the country would share the same classrooms with less privileged Nigerians as was the case in the first republic.

Earlier, the Chairman of IWA, Chief Nwachukwu Anakwenze, said that the group would mobilise the people of the area and other Nigerians for the elections.

Anakwenze said that their support for any political party would be based on the position of such party

in the restructure debate and rule of law.

“We are happy that the ball is set for another election and among other things, we demand for a debate by the presidential candidates to enable the electorate make informed choices,” he said.

He said that it was sad that some politicians from the zone were promoting selfishness which he said was condemnable.

“One of our goals is to regenerate the relationship with our brothers and sisters from the South-South region and work for the sustained security in our area.

“We are resolute in making peace and combating the adversaries that have plagued us. We do not believe in promoting ethnicity but in a system where all sections are treated equally,” he said.

Nwachukwu said that political leaders from the area rather than promoting selfishness were expected to derive their authority from the people that gave them their mandates.

The event featured mentorship lectures for the youths.

However skepticism were expressed by some of those present, concerning how Atiku Abubakar intends to achieve this considering the opposition to restructuring from some quarters.

“The northwest politicians have always been the ones who instigate this opposition for restructuring by the north,” continued Egu. “But a good leader will further educate them on the many positive gains the devolution of power from the center to the operating units will bring in a proper federal system. Atiku intends to reach out to all the stake holders, from the moment he gets into office. He believes that is a legacy he will leave for Nigeria forever” Most Nigerians in the diaspora are skeptical of the ability of the present government to conduct a free and fair election in 2019, considering feelers from the international observers over the just concluded elections in Ekiti and Osun states.

This was expressed by Dr. Dolue Ezeanolue, the medical director of Apex Medical Center, one of the largest practices by an African in Las Vegas. Hon Greg Egu, however allayed the fears that the PDP has concrete plans on ground to make sure that 2019 elections are free and fair.

For Chief John Anozie, a top Las Vegas pharmacist, the issue of passing a bill to allow the millions of Nigerian nationals in the diaspora to vote at Nigerian embassies across the world is very important. He said: “From statistics, Nigerians in the diaspora contribute about 20% to the GDP, through the billions of dollars remittances to family, friends, businesses and others, so it is imperative that this is recognized by allowing us to participate in choosing the leaders through voting. This issue was discussed in the past with former speaker of house of representatives, Dimeji Bankole and the current special adviser on the president on diaspora, Hon Abike Dabiri, when they visited Las Vegas, last year, but nothing has come out of this so far” While acknowledging the frustrating situation, Egu reiterated that the impact of the diaspora is even better felt in the number of voters at home they can influence to vote for a particular candidate.

He emphasized that “You can influence more than 300 or 50 people in your village to vote for a candidate of your choice by virtue of the fact that you practically sustain them by your constant remittances” Hon Egu assured the professionals that Atiku with his success in business over the past 35 years will trun Nigeria’s economy around.

“His choice of former Anambra state governor Peter Obi as his running mate is premised on Obi’s track record as a pragmatic, result oriented person, who will bring a lot of experience to bear on the economic team, the way the presidential candidate made great choices of Nigerians in the diaspora when he was vice president to former president Olusegiun Obasanjo “ The meet and greet had a number of top Nigerian professional in Las Vegas in attendance, including Dr. & Dr. (Mrs) Nwokike, who own Oases Health Institutes, Dr. Agu, Dr. Egu, Ike Smarty ( Publisher Afrian Informer) and others.

45

The Oracle Today Wednesday, November 7, 2018

SPORTS

AITEO Cup: We lived up to our motto – Chukwu • Says “Rangers comeback, a miracle”

Pil ars give players 2 weeks break after AITEO Cup defeat •Say “only players that get call will return”

T

• Governor Ugwuanyi of Enugu State celebrating with victorious Enugu Rangers players in Asaba after winning AITEO Cup last week.

Stories by MADUABUCHI KALU

F

OLLOWING Enugu Rangers unbelievable comeback in the finals of this year’s Federation Cup otherwise called AITEO Cup final in Asaba, the Delta State capital on Wednesday, excited former captain and coach of the team, Christian Chukwu has summed of the club’s gallant performance as the team living up to its motto of “NEVER SAY DIE”.

According to Chukwu, this is the type of gallantry that made Enugu Rangers a household name in the past, even as he lauded the team for their determination and zeal to ensure that the 35 year-old lack of the Federation Cup trophy by the team was broken in the most unbelievable fashion.

He explained that all Rangers supporters were down cast as the Kano Pillars run riot of the Flying Antelope

inside the recently refurbished Stephen Okechukwu Keshi Stadium in Asaba from the blast of the whistle, earning their first goal within the first five minutes of the game and added another in the 20th minutes.

The former Enyimba and Heartland coach said as if that was not enough insult to the image of the Flying Antelope, the match stretched almost out of the rich of Rangers when Pillars added another goal to make it three, prompting many Rangers fans to exit the stadium.

Chukwu explained that Rangers rediscovered themselves when Pillars defender, Anyanwu got injured with 15 minutes to go. He said it was like with the injury to Anyanwu, Pillars’ defence caved in and Rangers were able to find a lee way to bring the score line to 3-3 at the regulation time, hence the penalty shoot-out upon which Rangers claimed victory.

The immediate past general manager of the club explained that some people who left the stadium in anger before Rangers began their resurgence could not believe it when they were told that Rangers won the match at the end of the encounter.

“We have not started our celebration. It is going to be cerebration all the way,” Chukwu told The Oracle Today Sports in an exclusive telephone interview.

“We are overwhelmed with this victory over Kano Pillars on Wednesday in Asaba. It is a sweat victory because of the way it came.

“We lived up to our motto: “NEVER SAY DIE”. That is our motto. This is why Rangers were a household name in Nigerian Football in the past. And I must tell you that I am happy that we replicated what we were known for.

“It was like the miracle of Daman, when the Flying Eagles also came

Again, Rohr carpets home-based players

S

UPER Eagles’ Technical Adviser, Gernot Rohr has once again carpeted the home-based players saying none of them is good enough for the national team the Super Eagles.

Of course there is no love lost between the Franco-German football tactician and the home based players as the former Burkina Faso handler has never hidden his disdain for Nigerian players plying their trade on home soil right from the very first time he set his foot in the country as the one who is to handle the country’s flagship football team, the Super Eagles.

Rohr made his feelings known while fielding question from sports journalist moments after the 2018 Federation Cup final between Kano Pillars and champions Enugu Rangers.

According to him having watched the match from the start to finish, he did see any player that is better than those who are currently in the team

and as a result there is no gain talking of making any of the players a part of the squad.

This certainly will not augur well for many former players like Christian Chukwu, Henry Nwosu, Friday Ekpo, Etim Esim, Yisa Shofoluwe, Peter Rufai amongst others, who have been rooting for the inclusion of local players in the national team over the years.

“I am satisfied with the match but I must tell you that I didn’t really see one player who seems to be better than the players we have,” Rohr began.

“We have already very good players and I saw somebody in the first half and I didn’t see him again in the second half.

“Yes we saw some good players in the two teams but I cannot say this one or that one is good for the Super Eagles now,” Rohr said.

Continuing the former Burkina Faso coach said that the Stephen Keshi Stadium in Asaba was not

good enough for Eagles matches saying they have to work on the field and as a result he does not see the Eagles playing there for at least now.

“The stadium also in Asaba, the pitch is not yet really good for the Super Eagles. They really need to work on it and again the stadium is not big enough for Eagles matches,” Rohr explained.

With Gernot Rohr’s position on the Asaba Stadium, the NFF led by Amaju Melvin Pinnick should shelve their plan to host the Eagles’ 2019 Africa Cup of Nations final qualifying game against Seychelles in Asaba.

For the time being, Uyo will continue to play host to the Super Eagles home matches because there is no better stadium than it in the country at the moment as the Franco-German football tactician has already ruled out the Ahmadu Bello Stadium in Kaduna and the national Stadium in Abuja for not being good enough for Eagles matches.

from the dead, having conceded 4-0 to bounce back and defeated Soviet Union (USSR) in the FIFA Under-20 World Cup. “The truth of the matter is that Rangers came back from the dead and as far as I am concerned it was a miracle.

“I must confess to you that Pillars’ ran riot of Rangers from the blast of the whistle. The truth is that if they had made use of all their chances in the first half, they would have been up by seven goals. It was terrible for us but thank God that in the second half Rangers players have to realize the need to invoke the motto of the club “Never Say Die”. That was the spirit that propelled us to become a dreaded side in the 70s and early 80s.

“What happened filled me with nostalgia as I recalled many battles we engaged in the name of Enugu Rangers and Igbo identity,” Chukwu said.

“One thing that was very instrumental to Rangers resurgence is the injury to one of Kano Pillars’ defenders, Anyanwu. That injury to Anyanwu was like the tonic that Rangers were waiting for.

“This is because immediately Anyanwu got injured, it seems that Pillars defence collapsed and what else do Rangers need? Just to cash in and do the needful. As a matter of fact, Anyanwu came to that match with an Igbo spirit not to allow Rangers have their way. He was like rock in Pillars defence, I must tell you.

“I give kudos to the players and the technical crew led by Coach Gbenga Ogunbote for being able to win the cup after 35 years. You recall that the last time Rangers won the Federation Cup was the one I won with them in 1983.

“I believe that this victory has unlocked the door for more trophies for Rangers. I am optimistic that Rangers will not wait for this long to win the trophy again. This victory has launched us back to the continent and I know that Rangers has all it takes to give the country good representation,” Chukwu promised.

HE management of Kano Pillars Football Club of Kano has done what could be regarded as an unprecedented thing in world football as they have sent the players of the team to a compulsory two weeks break after they were fluffed off their opportunity to emerge champions of this year’s Federation Champions in Asaba on Wednesday.

According to the club management, only players who get call from the management will return to resume training in preparation for the 2018/19 Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) season which is slated to start next month.

According to the Media Officer of the Club Idris Malikaba the players are expected to resume training on the 9th of next month for preparation for the new season of the Nigeria Professional Football League and also said “Only players who received calls from the club management should resume after the break.”

This position of Pillars management is condemnable because the players are on contract despite whatever misgivings that the management may have against some of the players, they should ensure that they honour the contracts they entered into with every player.

It is never heard of that because a club lost in the final of any match, players’ contracts are terminated.

This is not the first time a club lost in the final of any competition after leading with the hope of emerging champions and at the end of the day, the tide turned against them and they lost.

There is no way the management will justify their position because everybody is aware of the fact that Pillars were determine to win the match hence they led by 3-0 until about 75minutes of the encounter when they tide turned against them and at the end they lost via penalties.

Of course there is no right thinking person that will not feel aggrieved over the turn of event if the person is on the side of Pillars; but then Pillars management should not bring the game to disrepute because the match did not favour them at the end of hostilities.

Do they even consider the fact that this is the same scenario that played out in 2005 at the UEFA Champions League between Liverpool and AC Milan. Liverpool were 3-0 down deep into the second half but were propelled to victory by the never say die spirit of their then captain, Steve Gerrard who led by example and at the end they emerged champions at the expense of their more fancied opponent, AC Milan.

Did Milan sack or terminate the contract of any of the players of that lost? The answer is capital NO! The reason is that in sports just like every other human endeavor, it is not over until it is over. Pillars should rue the lost and put it behind them and forge ahead. They still have opportunities of emerging champions in the years ahead because they are one of the best clubs in the country.

46

The Oracle Today Wednesday, November 7, 2018

SPORTS

Rohr explains insistence on foreign players

Stiories by MADUABUCHI KALU

S

UPER Eagles’ Technical Adviser, German Gernot Rohr has taken out time to explain why he has not deemed it necessary to incorporate local players in the national team set up except for Goalkeeper Ikechukwu Ezenwa, who himself is not playing for the team since the team qualified for the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia.

According to Rohr, the abrupt end of the Nigeria Professional

Football League (NPFL) has made it difficult for him to invite the players from the league. Rohr stated this while on Monday Night Football on Supersports while reacting to a question why he has not been inviting home-based players to the national team, the Super Eagles.

In his words: “The best players are playing in Europe. We have to take the best players, whether they are all playing in Europe or China.

“I called the (NFF) president, Amaju Melvin Pinnick (when I saw

this report), he couldn’t confirm this. If it costs $10,000 to fly in a player and he comes and scores five goals, that comes down to $2,000 a goal and then it’s not so expensive,” the Franco-German football tactician said.

“In the recent past, we have selected some local players but immediately they travel to Europe, we have to watch them again for a while. Such players like Al-Hassan (Ibrahim) Odey (Stephen) and Eze (Stephen), who was good in CHAN. “We invited four of them for the

Chukwu’s first daughter for marriage Nov. 17

T

HERE is no doubt that this is season of good tidings for Nigerian coaches as many of them are giving out their daughters in marriages and one of the fortunate ones is no other person than former national team and Enugu Rangers captain and coach, Christian Chukwu, who will on Nov. 10 give out his first daughter, Barrister Adaora Chukwu in marriage to her heartthrob, Engineer Chukwunwike Ndibe, a staff of the Federal Ministry Works in his country home of Umuikeowo Village, Obe, in Nkanu West Local Government Area of Enugu State.

Chukwu explained that the traditional marriage which will take place in his country home at Umuikeowo, Obe in Nkanu West Local Government Area of Enugu State will commence by 12 pm.

This much was exclusively disclosed to The Oracle Today Sports by no other person than the former Harambees Stars’ of Kenya coach, Christian Chukwu (MFR).

According to the former national team coach, he will be giving out his daughter (Barrister) Adaora Chukwu who is a staff of the Nigeria Stock Exchange in marriage on the 10th of next month (November) in his country home of Umuikeowa Obe, Nkanu West Local Government Area of Enugu State while the white wedding will take

place on the 17th in Lagos.

In the invitation card extended to The Oracle Today Sports, Chukwu’s son-in-law is the son of Chief and Lady Nwachukwu Austin Ndibe of Umuriamu Village Umueri in Anambra State.

Speaking with The Oracle Today Sports on phone, the immediate past General Manager of Enugu Rangers further explained that his duaghter’s white wedding will take place in Lagos a week after the traditional wedding, which is 17th at the Dominion Headquarters, Golden Heart Place, Lekki-Epe Expressway, beside Lagos Business School, Ajah, Lagos by 10am, while reception will take place Piccadilly Suites, No3 Pic-

cadilly Street Agungi, Lekki-Lagos.

The Oracle Today Sports therefore, joins millions of Chukwu’s well-wishers across the globe to rejoice with family on this occasion of his daughter’s marriage to her heartthrob Engineer, Chukwunwike Ndibe. We wish her happy and blissful married life in Jesus name…

Amen.

It is recalled that just four months ago, Chukwu buried his younger and only brother, an academic, Dr. Obiorah Chukwu, who was a staff of the Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT). It is believed that his daughter’s wedding will have a way of bringing succor to him.

last friendly against Liberia where we were able to see them but the main problem is that they have not played league matches in the last three to four months and this would have affected their level of fitness, rhythm and competitiveness.

“But with Imama (Amapakabo), Agu (Aloy) and Salisu Yusuf, who is still assisting us, we are having a look at them and there is still room for any player to join the team.”

Continuing he disclosed that they are working on getting a regular club for Ezenwa, who has been behind Theophilus Afelokhai in the Enyimba pecking order.

“We have Ezenwa who is doing well in the team. But we are worried that he is not playing regularly and as such; we are working to get him a place where he can compete regularly to ensure that he achieves maximum level of fitness for the team.”

On the reported advanced payment made to him by the NFF, the former Burkina Faso coach denied the report that the NFF had paid his salaries up to December.

“I am just hearing the news as well. However, there is no truth in it because I haven’t been paid till December. But with the progress we are making with the team, we are excited to work ahead and the money issue is not the problem we have for now,” he said.

Eriksson is Philippines coach

F

ORMER England manager, Sven-Goran Eriksson has been hired to lead the Philippines’ football team following the surprise departure of Three Lions football great, Terry Butcher earlier this year.

Sven-Goran Eriksson Philippine team manager Dan Palami said the Swede would coach the Azkals in next month’s AFF Suzuki Cup and the Asian Cup in January.

“One of the legendary coaches of all time, Coach Sven-Goran Eriksson will be coaching the Azkals

for the Suzuki Cup and the Asian Cup,” Palami said in a video posted on the team’s Twitter page.

“He will be a great addition to the team and I’m sure the players will learn a lot from him.” The contract terms of Eriksson, 70, have not been disclosed. He fills a void left by the abrupt departure of Butcher, who resigned as head coach in August without ever taking charge of a single Azkals match.

Butcher, a veteran of three World Cups who had managed

in England, Scotland, Wales and Australia, lasted less than 50 days in the job after deciding he could not carry out his plans for the team.

Eriksson in 2001 became the first foreigner to head England’s football team, and has since also coached Mexico and the Ivory Coast as well as league clubs in Sweden, Portugal, Italy and China.

He takes charge as the Philippine team enjoys unprecedented success, having jumped as high as 111 in the FIFA rankings in May 2018.

Quadri wins Cycling Lagos’ event

A

CE Cyclist, Ajibade Quadri, on Saturday returned the time of 1hr 47:39 to emerge the winner and got the star prize of N1.7 million at the maiden edition of the CyclingLagos.

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the grand finale of the CyclingLagos which took place on the designated routes, started at the Teslim Balogun Stadium, Surulere, Lagos.

Quadri, however, stole the show as he rode past his stiff opponent, Samuel Fasima, who eventually came second, while Afis Bakare came third and Eyo Effioh came in the fourth Position.

On his conquest of the competition, the gold medalist, Quadri, said that he was elated to have emerged the champion of the competition which he described as tough.

“I am happy to have emerged champion. I never expected it, though I trained hard for it.

“Anybody can be a champion of the competition because we are all trained for it.

“Winning this competition will, however, afford me the opportunity of sharpening my skills in cycling because it is what I do all the time.”

Okagbare concludes course in US CNA Nurse training

B

LESSING Okagbare, Nigerian female track star, has taken a tentative step towards a likely career in nursing after dropping her spikes, as she has concluded a session in CNA Training.

The programme is for aspiring certified nursing assistants, and Okagbare said she was happy to complete the course, which she admits means delving into a terrain she is not used to.

While admitting it was a tough procedure and required high level determination from her, Okagbare added on social media that she is excited to have finalised the programme and is standing tall for having achieved something unique in her life.

She stated on her Twitter account @mountain214: “Life has been so amazing the last couple of weeks.

“Had to try something different from just being an athlete and I successfully completed my CNA training.

What a season Queen B. What they thought would break you didn’t. In all you continued to rise above and against all odds.

“Don’t ask why but, as you journey through this new phase that is about to begin, always know that you are more than a conqueror and defeat is never an option.

“Extremely driven by passion and I know this is just the beginning of an amazing journey. You are amazing….”

•Blessing Okagbare

47

The Oracle Today November 7, 2018

SPORTS

Rangers exhibited true Igbo spirit in victory over Pillars – Oduah

•Rangers Int’l FC of Enugu Stiories by MADUABUCHI KALU

R

EACTIONS are still trailing the victory of Enugu Rangers over Kano Pillars in this year’s Federation Cup or AITEO Cup which was played at the recently completed Stephen Okechukwu Keshi Stadium in Asaba, Delta State.

The latest reaction on the Rangers unprecedented comeback victory over Pillars is coming from no other person than former member of Anambra State Sports Council, Prince Isidoreh Oduah.

Oduah, a renowned football administrator who once served a member of the Nigeria Football Association (NFA) and the only none indigene to have served in the Lagos State Football Association (LSFA) told The Oracle Today Sports in a telephone interview moments after the final whistle on Wednesday that Rangers comeback victory in the Federation Cup final was nothing but true Igbo spirit at display.

He explained that Enugu Rangers being a club modeled after the philosophy of Ndi Igbo of never see any obstacle as insurmountable was the

reason for the Coal City club to rise from the ashes to win the 2018 AITEO Cup to the disbelieve of Pillars and their supporters who had thought it was all over for Enugu Rangers when they were leading by 3-0.

“I want to tell you what happened on Wednesday in the Federation Cup final between Enugu Rangers and Kano Pillars was unbelievable,” Oduah began.

“Where I was watching the match, I could not talk because of the way Pillars made Rangers to look ordinary as they ran riot over the Flying Antelopes

from the blast of the whistle.

“I went to watch the match with very high hope but after Pillars scored the first two goals without any response, my confidence started to fade I must tell. It is true that as someone who has been in football all my life, anything is possible.

“When they made it 3-0 I say to myself it was all over and I was sad. This is because as far as club football is concerned, Rangers are one club that is my life. This I can tell you because I must said that I am privileged to have been one of those who have been

with the club from inception.

“I have been a part and parcel of Enugu Rangers management. I served in many Rangers management team including under the chairmanship of Chief Jim Nwobodo, the late Eze BCN Nzenwa amongst others.

“What surprised me was when Rangers turned around their misfortune to emerged champions of this year’s Federation Cup. From 3-0 down to 3-1, from 3-1 to 3-2 and from 3-2 to 3-3, it was unbelievable. It was like a film but it was a reality.

“What Rangers did in Asaba is nothing but the Igbo philosophy of ‘never see any obstacle’ as insurmountable on display. There is no other way to explain it.

“That was the spirit that Rangers of Christian Chukwu era banked on to do many exploits for Ndi Igbo immediately after the Civil War. “What Rangers did in Asaba will go into history as one of the greatest comebacks of Nigerian Football; we are talking of the final of the Federation Cup and not just any other match for that matter. It was wonderful and I will cherish this for a very long time to come,” Oduah said.

Continuing he said: “Of course, Pillars and their supported thought they were home and dry as Rangers did not score until deep into the second half, I thing less than 20 minutes to the end of the game but Rangers goals started coming.

“When the first goal came for Rangers, it was like at least let it not be that the former champions were humiliated 3-0. When the second came I said to myself at least it is a respectable score-line. I never knew that the equalizer was on the way and when it came, I couldn’t talk because I was overwhelmed with joy.

“Rangers I must tell you made my day and that is how millions of Igbos across the globe are feeling too. To rise from the dead is down to the love God Almighty have for Ndi Igbo and I am happy that Rangers have been able to win another Federations Cup after many years,” Oduah said.

AWCON 2018: Dede warns Falcons of difficult tasks ahead Iheanacho, Ndidi, other Leicester players mourn club owner

F

ORMER Super Falcons safest hands and now assistant coach, Precious Dede has warned the national women’s senior team of the hard battles ahead at the 2018 African Women Cup of Nations starting November 17 in Ghana.

Eagle players Dede, who played 99 times for Nigeria and winning two AWCON tournaments in 2010 and 2014, though backed the Super Falcons to retain the title, noted that the rest of African women are equally prepared and ready to fight. “ I really pray that we have a good training and preparations.

Though we have players that can face any team in the world, the African countries are no push overs.

“It isn’t just Cameroon and Ghana; countries like Mali, South Africa and the rest that qualified for the AWCON are so good too.

They will all give us a fight, but my girls are still coming home with the trophy,” Dede said. The team started their second phase training yesterday (Monday) in the Abuja.

Foreign-based players like Assisat Oshoala, Onome Ebi, Francisca Ordega and Desire Oparanozie are expected to join the team, while the coaches are expected to pick the final team for the tournament.

The Super Falcons will open their AWCON account with South Africa’s Bayana Bayana on November 18 in Cape Coast. Kenya and Zambia are the other teams in group B.

Mikel score first goal in 6 months

F

ORMER Chelsea star John Obi Mikel netted his first goal in six months as Tianjin Teda were beaten 4-2 by Shanghai Shenhua on game week 27 in the Chinese Super League on Sunday.

The Super Eagles captain had not scored in a competitive game since finding the net against Guangzhou R&F on April 14 prior to today’s clash at Tianjin Olympic Center Stadium.

Giovanni Andres Moreno scored with a header to open the scoring for the visitors in the 14th minute, only for Mikel to restore parity

eight minutes later.

A free-kick taken by Li Yuanyi was punched away by goalkeeper Li Shuai and the rebound fell to Ghanaian Frank Acheampong, whose shot was directed into the net by Mikel.

The Nigeria number ten was culpable for the second goal conceded by Tianjin Teda after he failed to clear the ball out of danger and Jianrong Zhu capitalized on the mistake to score.

With three rounds left to play in the Chinese Super League, Tianjin Teda are 14th on the 16-team table with 28 points.

T

HE owner of Leicester City FC died when his helicopter crashed outside the stadium, the club has confirmed.

Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha, two members of his staff, the pilot and a passenger were killed when the aircraft crashed at about 20:30 BST on Saturday.

Witnesses said the helicopter just cleared the King Power Stadium before it spiralled out of control and crashed in a fireball.

Thousands of bouquets and scarves have already been left outside the ground.

Leicestershire Police said it believed the dead to be: Leicester owner Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha, two members of his staff, Nursara Suknamai and Kaveporn Punpare and Pilot Eric Swaffer and his partner Izabela Roza Lechowicz Mr. Swaffer had over 20 years’ flying experience as a private jet and helicopter pilot.

His career included flying helicopters for live media broadcasting including Channel 4’s The Big Breakfast and the Virgin Radio traffic helicopter.

Mr. Swaffer’s friend Lucie MorrisMarr said he was a “veteran in the field” and would have done all he could to prevent lives being lost in the crash. She added that he was a “funny and vivacious” man who was in an “aviation love story” with Ms. Lechowicz.

“Not many people get to work

and travel with their soulmate, travelling the world going to glamorous places,” she said.

The couple were professional pilots who lived together in Camberley, Surrey. Ms Lechowicz moved to the UK from Poland in 1997.

In a statement, the Polish embassy said: “With great sadness, we received the news about the death of Izabela Lechowicz in the Leicester catastrophe.

“She was a great pilot, winner of the #Polka100 contest. It contributed to the creation of a positive image of Poland in the UK.” Thai billionaire, Mr. Srivaddhanaprabha, 60, who was married and had four children, bought Leicester City for £39m in 2010.

Under his ownership the club won the Premier League in 2016, having started the season as 5,000/1 outsiders.

In a statement, Leicester City said the club’s thoughts were with “the Srivaddhanaprabha family and the families of all those on-board at this time of unspeakable loss”.

The club described Mr Srivaddhanaprabha as “a man of kindness, of generosity and a man whose life was defined by the love he devoted to his family and those he so successfully led”.

“Leicester City was a family under his leadership. It is as a family that we will grieve his passing and maintain the pursuit of a vision for the club that is now his legacy,” it

added.

A book of condolence will be opened at King Power Stadium from Tuesday morning. The team’s next fixture against Southampton in the EFL Cup, scheduled for Tuesday evening, has been postponed.

Leicester goalkeeper, Kasper Schmeichel, who witnessed the incident said he ran out of the stadium towards the crash scene, declared that Mr. Srivaddhanaprabha had “changed football forever’.

“I cannot believe this is happening. I am so totally devastated and heartbroken,” he added.

Club captain Wes Morgan tweeted: “Absolutely heartbroken and devastated regarding the news of our chairman. A man that was loved and adored by everyone here at LCFC,” Schmeiche said.

•Late Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha

WEDNESDAY November 7, 2018

The

www.oraclenews.ng

W

ith the primary elections and the disputes arising therefrom done with, the coast is now clear for the 2019 electioneering campaigns to begin.

Soon, politicians will mount the soapbox and campaign for fresh election or reelection. According to INEC timetable, the 2019 election campaigns will begin this November 18 with the presidential and National Assembly election campaigns.

The governorship and House of Assembly campaigns commence thereafter.

The campaign period affords elected political office holders the opportunity to showcase what they have done in the preceding years and why on the strength of such performance, they are seeking re-election. Similarly, campaign period affords new entrants or those seeking fresh mandates, the opportunity to sell themselves and their vision to the electorate.

In all, it is a very important period in the electoral calendar for all stakeholders in the electoral process—the candidates, the party/parties and the electorate. It is the best time for the candidates to seek to win the hearts and minds of the voting public.

In the past, campaign rallies had been fraught with a lot of dangers, not least because thugs often operated almost unfettered--either to prevent intruders from disrupting such rallies or to, in fact, disrupt such rallies! There is no reason to assume that such things don’t or won’t happen these days. For all the world knows, they may even become worse, if the language of social media political communication at the moment is anything to go by. We are, however, consoled by the fact that with the selfsame social media as a veritable platform for politicking, the need for physical campaign rallies with their associated logistics problems may well have become greatly reduced, such that the oft-debilitating misgivings about thugs unleashing mayhem on participants at rallies may no longer be as debilitating.

And yet, there must be campaigns and rallies, come to think of.

As tumultuous as the recently concluded party primary elections were, we are delighted to note that they ended in most cases without major incidents.

Except in a few instances, like in Nnewi, Anambra State, where ‘we no go gree’ boiled over into physical assaults and people sustained some injuries in the ensuing melee, the primaries were generally peaceful and seemed to signpost the shape of things to come in the polls of next year: by His grace, a peaceful, generally acceptable election does seem to beckon. It is instructive also that despite the baiting of the general public by security agents who openly aided vote buy/rigging and, with thugs in tow, viciously harassed ‘non-official’ party members, even preventing many of them from casting their votes, the Ekiti and Osun State governorship elections were generally peaceful, especially, in the case of Osun State, the first election held on 22nd of last month.

In the light of the foregoing, it is expected that as the campaigns begin, political leaders and party apparatchik would be guided by the nation’s most recent experience in politicking and elections in pitching their messages so as to further promote the cause of

48

racle Today

VOX POPULI SACRUM

ISSN: 2545-5869

Now that campaigns are about to begin…

•Buhari

electoral peace in the country. Candidates and their campaign organisations must endeavour to dwell more on issues than on personalities. And even where the emphasis inevitably turns on personalities, effort must be made to dwell more on the positives or negatives of such personalities in very decent ways. For, the point must be made that all human beings, politicians especially, live in glass houses one way or another and so must avoid throwing stones indiscriminately.

Communication directors of campaign organisations must, therefore, make it a point of duty to strictly gate-keep in order to avoid all manners of insidious materials that libel opponents and impugn their characters getting into media campaign platforms.

The underlying phrase here is ‘use of language’. We have observed that many ‘journalists’ who operate on social media tend to insult rather than criticise their principals’ opponents. Such words as evil, wicked, devil, satanic among other such expletives, have been freely used to describe certain persons whose only crime is that they dared to pick their party’s ticket (yes another political party’s ticket) to challenge those ‘journalists’ principals to electoral contest. Such ugly words/ terms must never be allowed free reign in social and political communication in the modern era. They belittle both the users and the targets of such expletives.

•Atiku

Indeed, what we say about others must edify rather demean us. Therefore, to continue on the path of peaceful and decent politicking that the primaries and the two recent elections in the South West, imperfect as they may have been, have signposted, it is imperative for communication/media directors of campaign organisations to bridle their attack dogs so that at the end of it all, win or lose, we shall all still have friends and friendly socio-political environments to return to.

One unattributed post trending on the social media has this to say about our brand of politicking. Entitled ISSUED IN PUBLIC INTEREST, the text says: “People are losing friends over political ideologies.

Just remember that whenever you are in need and want support, you will need friends and not government.”

How apt. It is appalling that many, indeed most, of us these days, in a bid to show loyalty to, and please their principals, go all out to destroy relationships they had built over time and which had hitherto served them well. But, more often than not, such overzealous supporters turn out to be the ultimate losers—they usually lose everything—because these politicians they fight for, these people who unabashedly tell you there are neither permanent friends nor enemies but interests, will sooner or later turn around to make up with their opponents

leaving their ‘foolish’ supporters to sort themselves out, in most cases to stew in the stench of their eternal enmity with people they had unnecessarily disparaged in the name of partisan politicking.

The point bears repeating that politics is no war but only a game. As every game is played by the rules, so is or should politics.

When games—football, lawn tennis, even Rugby—are played according to the rules, they bring nothing but joy and ecstasy to the spectators. In the same vein, when politics is played according to the rules of engagement—respect for the rights of others to vote and or be voted for, especially—the result, almost always, comes in the form of a nation experiencing peace and harmony, socioeconomic development and progress.

What the candidates and their supporters do or say as the campaigns soon begin will go a lot way in determining how far the nation will go in its effort to midwife another peaceful transition from one civilian to another in Nigeria’s unfolding 20 unbroken years of democratic governance. A lot will depend on what communication directors of campaign organisations do or fail to do in this regard.

•This article was originally published as The Oracle Today comment. It is reproduced here on our back page in response to popular demand--Editor

The Oracle Today is published by The Oracle Newspapers Limited. Head Office: 116 Awka Road, Onitsha. Lagos Office: 25 Remi Fani-Kayode Street, GRA Ikeja. Abuja Office: 1st Floor, Plateau House, Central Business District, Abuja, FCT. ISSN: 2545-5869 Email: oracletoday2016@yahoo.com, Twitter: @oraclenews.ng Facebook: oraclenews.ng@facebook.com Website: www.oraclenews.ng Advert hot lines: 09078310060, 09061836916. Editor: FELIX OGUEJIOFOR ABUGU.