Wednesday January 23, 2019 Edition by oracle

On the diminished voting strength of the South East

n occasion, some people from the South East are heard saying that “Ndigbo no dey carry last”. Nigeria’s Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has just proved them wrong: of the six geopolitical zones in the

The Oracle Today Comment country, the South East came last in the number of voters it registered to vote in the general election starting next month.

The list released by INEC chairman Prof. Mahmood Yakubu last Monday shows that barely 10million (less than 12%) of the country’s

The

VOX POPULI SACRUM

84million registered voters come from the five South East States. The North West geopolitical zone has double that number:

20.2million. The South West follows with 16.3million, the North Central 13.4million, South South 12.8million and North East 11.3 million.

What do the figures indicate? Already pundits have latched on to the numbers to allocate fictitious votes to political candidates they claim would be voted for in their constituencies. Election fraudsters, too, have

racle

WEDNESDAY JANUARY 23, 2019

www.oraclenews.ng

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Today

ISSN: 2545-5869 VOL.4 No.2 N200

Coca-Cola shuts down Enugu production • Lays off 5000 workers •Relocates operations to Benin • Ngwo community lambasts Ugwuanyi for ‘nonchalance’, inaction •Asks company to resume operation or pack out completely •Laments loss of water, other social

amenities provided by the company •Food vendors, transporters, others lament ‘collapse’ of business •Spike in rate of armed robberies worries 9th Mile Corner residents •10 killed in robbery attacks since closure in December last year •Govt. can’t dictate to a private company –Nwobodo •P2 Page 2

•Gov. Ifeanyi-ugwuanyi

Igboezue slams ‘gullible’ Igbo groups, endorses Atiku/Obi ticket

The Oracle Today Wednesday January 23, 2018

NEWS

Coca-Cola shuts down Enugu production

From: LARRY ONWUTA, Awka

he Nigerian Bottling Company (NBC), franchise owners of the Coca-Cola Company in Nigeria, has shut down its 44-year production plant at 9th Mile Corner, Ngwo, Enugu State. Established in 1975, the Enugu plant was the third to be established in the country after Benin (1970), Port Harcourt (1973) and Enugu (1975) and produced the major Coca-Cola brands, namely Coca-Cola, Fanta, Sprites and Schweppes. NBC has not given any reason for the shutdown. Indeed, the leadership of the host community,

Okwe Uwani, Ngwo, accused the company of closing the plant surreptitiously “because we asked them on two occasions when we got hints about their moves but they denied it.” The Oracle Today could not reach any NBC spokesman to explain the sudden closure of a company that had become, since the early 70’s, the defining character of the bustling 9th Mile Corner, as at press time, but a man who described himself as a man who described himself as a spokesperson for Coca-Cola International told The Oracle Today in Lagos that he could not explain what happened. In all, over 5000 workers were

laid off following the closure, including casual workers one of who told our reporters at the gate of the shut plant that he made an average N5000 every day at the peak of the plant’s operation. The company is now a ghost of its former itself as casual workers and loaders were still in shock as at press time over the sudden closure of the Enugu plant. When The Oracle Today visited the plant, it was deserted as only about 12 workers were seen entering and going out of the compound during over four hours of observation by our team. When we requested to see any member of the management staff

or the Corporate Affairs Department, nobody of note was available, not even the Chief Security. The downcast workers described the action of their management as wicked and inhuman, especially for sacking them without any notice, insisting that hundreds of families have been endangered by that singular action of management of Nigeria Bottling Company, Enugu production plant. Confirming the sack of workers at the Enugu plant, President General of Ifeke community, Mr Samuel Uche Nwude said the action of Coca Cola was in bad faith as the community visited the

•Senator representing Anambra North Princess Stella Adaeze Oduah beams with smiles as she receives an award of National Patronship from the President General Igboezue International Association Elder Pius Uchenna Okoye during the award ceremony held recently at Akili Ozizor in Ogbaru LGA Anambra State Photo Oliver Udeogu

By OLIVER UDEOGU

worldwide Igbo socio-cultural association the Igboezue International has thrown its weight behind the PDP Presidential Candidate, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar and his running mate Mr. Peter Obi. Similarly, the group has condemned the activities of what they called ‘gullible’ Igbo groups, who are engaged in activities detrimental to the electoral interest of the Atiku/Obi ticket and, by extension, that of Ndigbo as a whole. In a Statement issued during the week, President General of the group Elder Pius Uchenna Okoye, its National Patron Chief Vincent Udobi and its Diaspora Coordinator Chief Ken Nwose, said the pairing of the former Vice President and the former governor of Anambra State was the best political development in Nigeria in recent time and urged Nigerians to support the ticket for “effective leadership and turnaround of the nation’s economy in the next four years.” According to the group, the APC-led federal government of President Muhamadu Buhari has done its best, noting, however, that its best has simply not been

Igboezue slams ‘gullible’ Igbo groups, endorses Atiku/Obi ticket good enough for Nigeria. “The APC federal government has failed to address the myriad of problems facing the country and we cannot continue the failed experiment for another four years,” they said. “Well-meaning Nigerians must not stand by and watch while the ship of state is gradually sliding towards a very dangerous terrain.” The group has, therefore, called on Nigerians, especially Ndigbo to vote for Atiku and Obi whose business and economic competence would come to bear in the collective effort to take Nigeria to the next level of economic and industrial growth. Condemning the activities of some Igbo groups claiming to be speaking for the Igbo but making statements and claims detrimental to the interest of the Igbo, Igboezue urged Ndigbo to dissociate themselves from such groups, which the group said were not acting in sync with the overall interest of Ndigbo in Nigeria. Igboezue International said it decision to endorse Atiku/Obi

stemmed from their confidence in the strength of their ticket and the benefits their victory in the February 16 election would bring to Nigeria in general and Ndigbo in particular, adding that Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi have the requisite credentials and knowhow to reposition Nigeria and move it forward. Earlier, the group had decried the state of federal roads in the South East, lamenting that attention is always given to the infrastructural challenge faced by the geo-political zone only when elections are around the corner. They warned that Ndigbo could no longer be taken for granted by governments in Nigeria. In his own remarks, the National Patron of the group Chief Udobi described the Atiku/Obi ticket as “God sent to save a nation that is at the brink of collapse”, warning some South East political office holders to desist from their “selfish actions” which he described as “anti-people” and which could undermine the Igbo interest in their quest for total political lib-

eration from the clutches of political oppression and marginalization in the scheme of things in the country. “This is to avoid the condemnation of man, and the wrath of God,” he said. For his part, the Diaspora Coordinator of the group Chief Nwose called for a sensitization of the voting public so as to enable them vote wisely and correctly, even as he condemned vote-buying in whatever manner or guise, describing it as detrimental to good leadership and alien to modern democratic ideals the world over. The group’s President General Elder Okoye noted that the neglect by the APC federal government of the principles of federal character has made the government nothing more than a nepotic circle of friends and relatives among whom there is no room for outsiders, stressing that no government worth its name would operate like that anywhere in the world.

company two times to ascertain if they were relocating as rumoured but the management denied any such move only to shut down the company suddenly without justification. Nwude said Coca-Cola had breached the agreement it entered with the community in 1973 when it leased the land for 99 years at no cost but in trust. He said Coca-Cola has only stayed 49 years. The Ifeke community leader said: “We heard that Coca-Cola was relocating to Benin in October 2018. We went to meet with the management. We asked them but they denied it. They said they were doing overhauling. We went back in November but they denied it again only to summon us for a meeting shortly after at Golden Royale Hotel to announce to us that they wanted us to know officially that they were leaving 9th mile, Udi, Enugu State. “As if to compensate for the shutdown, they said at that meeting that they would bring to us the ‘largest and best logistics centre in the entire East’ but we rejected it. We only demanded one thing. If they want to continue to have that land, they should bring to us a line of their production, say the Eva water production line and close all other places it is produced. It should only be produced in Enugu. “We contacted our lawyer and after that meeting, we told them that it was not part of the lease agreement they had with us, that if they wanted to leave, they should leave for so that we could discuss business with other companies, which are already showing interest in our land. “We categorically rejected logistics centre; we want a line of their production ….Eva water production line of Coca-Cola. Why would Kano reject their relocation plans but they came here and relocated without a hiss and the Enugu State government we petitioned several times did nothing. ‘’We are in pains. There are no tenants again in our community. Businesses have shut down. The free water they were giving us has stopped. Corporate social responsibility has vanished. ‘’We set up a committee since December 4th Coca- Cola left our land till now nothing has happened. But we have decided, if Coca-Cola wants to leave our land by stopping its production line, they should do that but return our land to us or bring a production line to Enugu. If it is Eva water, they should close all other plants producing Eva and produce only in 9th mile plant because we have the best water. If not, we shall give our land to other companies looking for land. “We wrote Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi but he did nothing. The commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Hon Sam Ogbu Nwobodo did nothing too. Coca-Cola with impunity took over our land even when they had gone and nobody is speaking for us, not the governor, not the commissioner, not the chairman of council area but in Kano, the people said they won’t allow it and the production line remained till date. So, why us? Why Enugu? “We wrote Coca-Cola, copied our governor, but he abandoned

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The Oracle Today Wednesday January 23, 2019

NEWS ACROSS THE NATION Girl-child’s complete education key to economic development – Sultan of Sokoto, others By VICTOR NZE

ULTAN of Sokoto, Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar III, and the Kabaka of Bugundu (Uganda), Ronald Edward Frederick Kimera Muwenda Mutebi II have advanced the call for parents and communities to ensure that the girl-child education is not interrupted. The monarchs further posited that the economic future of the continent will be shaped if traditional, religious and community heads allowed the girl-child complete her primary and secondary school education and acquire livelihood skills in the process. The monarchs made the call when they chaired the ‘Keeping Girls in School Summit’; a convening of African leaders, traditional rulers, religious heads, youth groups, advocates and thought leaders, in Abuja, Nigeria, Tuesday. The two-day event brings together influential traditional and religious leaders from across the continent to discuss the critical issue of keeping girls in school to complete primary and secondary education (that is, 12 years of education) and find solutions from within the rich, diverse cultures and values of Africa’s thought leaders. With poverty being one of the key drivers of keeping girls out of school, the Summit also seeks to promote incorporating inschool skills that generate income.

Speaking at the event, Sultan Sa’ad Abubakar III called on all traditional and religious leaders on the continent to focus on the development of their communities; stating, “a key factor in the development of our communities is the education of our girls.” He further stated: “I believe traditional and religious leaders will lead in shaping the future of Africa by ensuring all girls complete secondary school education and learn life and livelihood skills in the process.” Completion of secondary education by girls has been found to significantly improve not only maternal and child health, but women’s decision-making, as well as their ability to earn a living; thus improving the health and nutrition of families and communities. This undeniable link between the education of the mother and health and development outcomes of families, shows that the future of African families is dependent on the education of the girl. The Summit provides a platform for community leaders to share ideas and best practices and develop strategies and networks to keep girls in school. It also serves as a means to sensitize and equip these leaders with the right skills to motivate parents and care givers to be deeply committed to ensuring all girls in their constituencies complete at least 12 years of education.

•(From right): President Buhari Muhammadu with former police chief, Ibrahim Idris (left) decorating the new acting Inspector General of Police, Mr Mohammad Abubakar Adamu, at the State House, Abuja.

In attendance at the event were President Muhammadu Buhari, the Emir of Kano (Nigeria) Muhammadu Sanusi II who presented a lead paper titled “Perspective on Development in Africa - population, education and investment.” Others include: The Emir of Argungu, in Kebbi State Alhaji Samaila Mera; The Nnabagereka of Buganda Queen Sylvia Nagginda; The Asantehene of Asante in Ghana; Archbishop of Abuja, Cardinal John

Report strange health symptoms in children – Paediatrician

PAEDIATRICIAN, Dr Mosunmola Folorunsho, has advised parents and guardians to pay greater attention to the health of their children, especially when some strange health symptoms began to emerge, by quickly seeking medical intervention. Folorunsho, who is the Chief Medical Director (CMD), Children Specialist Hospital, Ilorin, gave the advice during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Ilorin on Tuesday. She noted that some parents and guardians were too careless and insensitive in handling their children health status. “Some parents practice self-medications at home and wait till situation get worse before rushing children to hospital. Present them to the hospital when you observe any strange symptoms and stop killing innocent children,” she advised. The paediatrician also called on parents to limit exposure of children to dust particles and other forms of air pollution to avoid respiratory infection. She advised parents to ensure appropriate clothing for their children due to inclement weather. 2019: No compromise on corps members’ security, welfare – NYSC National Youths Service Corps (NYSC) says the security and welfare of corps members that will participate in the 2019 general elections remains its top priority and no compromise on it. Coordinator of the scheme in Anambra , Mr Kehinde Aremu, said this in Awka on Tuesday.

Aremu said NYSC in the state had at least, 10, 000 corps members who would be available to work as Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) as ad-hoc staff during the elections. He said nursing mothers and pregnant women would not be allowed to participate as Poll Officers (PO) due to their peculiar condition. The coordinator said 326 corps members had been approved to work with INEC for the distribution of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) to electorate in 326 electoral wards in the state. Aremu said he had scheduled tour of the 21 local governments of the state to engage council administrators, community leaders, politicians, Divisional Police Officers and other security agencies on corps members’ safety.

“Anambra has about 13, 200 corps members and about 10, 000 will be available for the election exercise. This is because nursing mothers and pregnant women will not be allowed to take part. “For NYSC as a scheme, we shall not compromise the safety of our children, so we are having stakeholders’ engagement to ensure their security is guaranteed. “However, security in Anambra is good, the assurance is encouraging, at the Inter-Agency Consultative Forum for Election Safety level, we have raised concern which have been adequately addressed,” he said. Aremu said NYSC would ensure that INEC make full disclosure on the welfare of corps members’ and duly transmit their honorarium to those that would take part in the elections.

Onaiyekan; Sheikh Sheriff Ibrahim Saleh ; Queen Mother of the Asante, Her Majesty, Nana Ama Konadu; Sultan of Zinder in Niger Republic, Alh. Aboubacar Sanda. Also in attendance at the event were representatives from international organisations such as the Children’s Investment Fund Foundation (CIFF), the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF), the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) Nigeria, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), the Department for International Development (DFID) and others. Similarly, were representatives of various ministries, departments and agencies in Nigeria including

Re-engineer Nigeria Police Force – PDP charges Acting IG-P

PPOSITION Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has urged the newly appointed Acting Inspector-General of Police Mohammed Adamu, to immediately begin the re-engineering of the force to restore professionalism and adherence to rules of engagement. The party made the call in a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Mr Kola Ologbondiyan, on Tuesday in Abuja Ologbondiyan urged the new Police boss to immediately set up the process of re-orientating and insulating the force from partisan politics. He further advised Adamu to remove all templates of alleged election rigging in the forthcoming elections. Besides, he appealed to him to vice to avoid having their vehicles urgently take steps to address “the impounded. Ozonnandi said that commercial vehicle owners had already started complying with the order for instalATIONAL Industrial Court, Abuja lation of the speed limit devices, on Monday granted an interim injunction, restraining Attorney adding that ‘’private vehicle ownGeneral of the Federation from furers should follow suit. “We implore vehicle owners, es- ther proceeding with hearing of the pecially private vehicle owners to alleged non-declaration of asset suit install the speed limit devices on against the Chief Justice of the Fedtheir vehicles in order to reduce eration, Walter Onnoghen. Justice Sanusi Kado granted the road crashes in 2019. The enforcement will begin very soon at an un- order pending the hearing and deterdisclosed time and any erring mo- mination of the motion on notice for injunction. torists will face the consequences,” Interlocutory Kado said the order was due to he said.

FRSC to begin enforcement of speed limit devices on private vehicles

EDERAL Road Safety Corps (FRSC), on Tuesday, said it would soon begin the enforcement of speed limit devices installation on private vehicles. The FRSC introduced the use of the speed limit device in 2016 to reduce the incidents of accidents and loss of lives. However, the enforcement of compliance with the installation began on Feb. 1, 2017 with articulated trucks. FRSC Unit Commander in Ore, Ondo State, Mr Philip Ozonnandi, said in Ore that private car owners were now required to install the de-

the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Muhammad Musa Bello and the Minister of Education, Mallam Adamu Adamu who in his remarks reiterated the importance of girls’ education. The conference gives the attending traditional and religious leaders the opportunity to reflect and come up with ideas on how they would contribute to the movement of keeping girls in school in their communities by increasing enrolment, retention and completion of school as well as ensuring girls acquire life and livelihood skills. This initiative would be amplified through the support of gender and youth focused groups and organizations.

bastardisation of promotion” in the Police. “This is in addition to immediately setting up a process that guarantees proper welfare of officers and men of the Nigeria police. He must note that the whole world is watching him and we urge him not to fail the nation, which he owes his allegiance,” he said. He urged him to learn from the mistakes of his predecessor, Ibrahim Idris, to avoid unnecessary pitfalls. Adamu was on Tuesday appointed to replace Idris, who retired from service on attainment of the mandatory 35 years in service or 60 years of age. He was the Assistant InspectorGeneral of Police (AIG) at the National Institute of Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), before his new appointment.

CJN: Court restrains tribunal from prosecuting Onnoghen

the imminent danger of having the subject matter in the suit destroyed before the hearing of the motion on notice. He said “an order of interim injunction is hereby granted restraining the 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 6th defendants from further proceeding with hearing of charge No. CCT/ABJ/01/19, between The Federal Republic of Nigeria and Justice Onnoghen Nkanu Walter Samuel pending the hearing and determination of the motion on notice for Interlocutory injunction,” the judge said.

The Oracle Today Wednesday January 23, 2018

The Oracle Today Wednesday January 23, 2019

NEWS ACROSS THE NATION

PDP, YPP, ANRP, others agree on open, digital assets declaration

IVE political parties, including the main opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), have pledged to introduce an “open and digitised asset declaration system’’ when voted into power at the centre. The pledge came through their representatives at the BigDebate on Corruption and Accountability meeting organised by the Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD) in Abuja on Tuesday. The other four parties are: the Young Progressives Party (YPP), Abundant Nigeria Renewal party (ANRP), African Action Congress (AAC) and the Allied Congress Party of Nigeria (ACPN). Mr. Kazeem Afegbua, the Spokesperson, PDP Presidential Campaign Council, said that a lot of Nigeria’s challenges in terms of corruption happened in public offices, thus the need for open asset declaration. “We subscribe to the idea of public declaration of asset; however, it is one thing to declare assets and another for people to have access to the assets declared. “So PDP ,when voted into power will open up the system by ensuring that Nigerians will have access to assets declared by public servants, and we would deploy technology that allows transparency in governance,’’ Afegbua said. He said that the PDP would work toward making the people to own the country again and also put in place systems that would isolate the government from anti-graft agencies. This, he said, would strengthen the agencies that fight corruption and make them independent of the government’s monopoly, adding that fighting corruption would be a collective efforts of citizens and government. He said that the PDP would also demonetise politics and the electoral process and make it possible for people to have access to how political parties conducted their primaries and other affairs. National Publicity Secretary, YPP, Mr Egbeola Martins, said that over 90 per cent of corruption in Nigeria was as a result of budget padding and contract inflation. Martins said that the party,

when voted into power would, digitise Nigeria by ensuring that all government activities and transactions were in the public domain. He said that the party using ICT would ensure that Nigerians had access to assets declaration online and could download budget and other procurement information while every procurement process would be automated. He said that since the bulk of corruption in Nigeria was in contract inflation and budget padding,the party would subject budget to external auditing to ascertain the real amount. The spokesman said that when human activities or manual activities were reduced using ICT, then corruption would have been half way dealt with. Presidential candidate of the ANRP, Mr Tope Fasua, expressed the need to overhaul the Nigerian system, and that restructuring should be written into the constitution of the country. Fasua said that ANRP was a computer party that would digitise the nation because technology would address the menace of corruption in Nigeria. He said that his party would subject leaders to publishing their account and publicising their assets so as to curb looting money or corruption, adding that the party would pay N45,000 minimum wage when voted into power and advocated that the 2019 budget should be increased to N15 trillion to effectively solve issues. Presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), Mr Omoyele Sowore, said that the party would ensure transparent contracting process and make publicly available public asset information and strip corrupt leaders off national awards. Sowore proposed to pay N100, 000 minimum wage to avoid stealing in the public service, adding that there was no reason why a Nigerian should work for 38 years before earning the monthly salary of a Senator. He said that the reason for corruption was the way the political class was structured, adding that the party would sanitise political parties and demonetise the elec-

toral process. National Secretary, Allied Congress Party of Nigeria(ACPN), Mr Paul Isamade, said that the major corruption issue started in political parties and called on the Federal Government to take over the funding of parties. This, Isamade said, would help in curbing corruption and parties would no longer be

fire trucks with firemen moving around, or they want to know whether we are alert at any given time.“So they dial our number to come to a location but when we got there, we saw nothing. ,” he said. He disclosed that the fire service recorded the highest number of fire incidents in December, because of the windy harmattan weather that usually attracted fire, while the lowest number of outbreaks was recorded in August, being raining season. The Nasarawa Officer appealed to residents to be extra careful and vigilant during the harmattan period. “People should always be cautious wherever they are and should have first aid firefighting equipment at their disposal so that the moment they discover any spark or smoke, they can use the equipment to stop the impending danger,” he said.

tive that leaders of political parties and their presidential candidates engaged in robust conversation on their preferred policies and programmes to rid the country of corrupt practices. The All Progressives Congress (APC) did not turn up for the debate and according the organisers, no reason was given for the absence.

•Group Managing Director, Afrinvest West Africa, Ike Chioke (left); Acting Director General, Securities and Exchange Commission, Mary Uduk; Partner & Managing Director, Syntaxis Capital Africa, Adesuwa Okunbo Rhodes and Managing Director, Afrinvest Asset Management Limited, Ola Belgore at the launch of a N12 billion private equity fund by Syntaxis Capital Africa in partnership with Afrinvest Asset Management Limited in Abuja.

Security: IDPs can’t go home now – Ortom

ENUE Governor Samuel Ortom has said that the terrain was not safe for Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), to return to their ancestral homes. Ortom stated this on Monday in Makurdi, during a two-day symposium on the plight of the IDPs. The symposium had the theme: “Displaced, Traumatized and Neglected: An Emerging Humanitarian Crises in Benue State”. The symposium, organized by the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), in collaboration with Yavnielle Consult, focused on possible solutions to the humanitarian crises. Represented by his deputy, Mr

Properties worth N489.4m lost to fire in Nasarawa in 2018 ASARAWA State Fire Service Department says fire disaster consumed property worth about N489.4 million across the state in 2018. Nasarawa state Chief Fire Officer, Alhaji Dogara Dalhatu, stated this on Tuesday in Lafia while reviewing activities of his department. He said that his staff saved property worth about N1.2 billion during the period under review. Dalhatu stated that in 2018, they responded to 114 distress calls, out of which with 98 had to do with fire outbreaks while 11 were calls for rescue operations and five were false alarms. “Like you all know, rescue operations range from people that fall inside the well, dam, open water and other situations where we were required to come and rescue a person. “Five of the calls were false calls; some people enjoy seeing

hijacked,adding that ACPN would ensure it ran a transparent, accountable and accessible government that was open to all. Director CDD, Ms Idayat Hassan, said that the event was organised to engage leaders of political parties on how to tackle the issue of corruption ahead of the general elections. Hassan said that it was impera-

Dalhatu also appealed to the state government to train and retrain fire service personnel to enable them perform optimally “Training and retraining are very important. Insurance is also very important. I also call on the state government to insure all fire fighters because of the hazardous nature of the job.

Benson Abounu, Ortom said that the IDPs would not return home until adequate security measures were taken to prevent recurrence of the attacks. He commended the Federal Government for instituting a military operation to tackle the herders attacks in the rural communities. According to him, there is relative peace following the efforts of the Operation Whirl Stroke in the state. “But it is still not safe for the IDPs to return home,” he declared. He charged the resource persons at the symposium to make recommendations that would solve the humanitarian crises caused by the incessant attacks on rural communities. “Your recommendations should be reduced into just two pages – one to focus on identification of the problems and the other on possible solutions. If it is too bogus, people might not read, making it unimplementable.” He called on the federal government to commence the reconstruction of damaged property as a preliminary step toward resettling the IDPs. Earlier, the chairman of the oc-

casion, Prof. Nicholas Ada, while regreting the destruction by herders, urged the resource persons to proffer solutions to the crises based on facts, to help government to formulate policies. On his part, the convener of the event, Prof. Okpeh Okpeh, said that the symposium was meant to provoke fresh discussions among stakeholders on the plight of IDPs in Benue. He decried the appalling conditions of the displaced persons in the state, and called for federal government’s intervention to alleviate the suffering of the displaced. According to him, the state government is catering for 500,000 IDPs, most of whom are women and children. He urged participants to make informed suggestions that would help government in arriving at decisions that would resolve the crises. In an address, Mr Emmanuel Shior, SEMA Chairman, said that the herders/farmers conflicts were comparable to the crises in the North Eastern parts of the country. Shior described the crises as ”a national disaster”, and called on the federal government to give it all the needed attention.

upcoming election on the conduct of the Nigeria Police Force. “The NPF is the largest and leading agency providing 85% of security personnel for the 2019 elections. “PSC is therefore very interested in how the police conduct themselves in this all important act in ensuring the credibility of the process. This is important to all Nigerians, as the President has constantly referred to this. “Therefore, the PSC will be monitoring the Police Conduct in the 2019 General Election across the entire country with a view to ascertain pro-

fessionalism in order to ensure the credibility of the electoral process,” she said. The commissioner also reminded the public that the PSC is responsible for the appointment, promotion and discipline of all police officers with the exception of the IGP. She stated that the PSC is not unmindful of past allegation of some unprofessional conducts by some policemen in previous elections. “For these reasons, the PSC will set up and create awareness hotlines for complaints by citizens.

2019: Police to monitor conduct of personnel

HE Police Service Commission (PSC) says it will monitor the conduct of police personnel during the 2019 General Elections to ascertain their adherence to professionalism. A Commissioner, Hajiya Najatu Muhammad, stated this during a news conference in Dutse. Muhammad said the measure was to ensure the credibility of the electoral process. “As the awaited election is drawing to a close, it is with utmost importance that we draw the attention of the public and all stakeholders in the

The Oracle Today Wednesday January 23, 2019

NEWS

SDP guber candidate blasts Abia PDP for disenfranchising women From BONIFACE OKORO, Umuahia

ormer Deputy Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Abia State chapter, Mrs. Blessing Nwagba, has lambasted the party for not giving women the party’s platform to contest any elective office in this year’s general elections on its platform. Mrs. Nwagba, the governorship candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), quit PDP after losing the Aba North/Aba South Federal Constituency ticket to contest for a seat in the House of Representatives. She told newsmen in Umuahia that having denied women tickets, it means that Abia PDP does not think that women could add value to governance. Answering questions from newsmen after dedicating her campaign office and unveiling her manifesto in Umuahia, Nwagba who is currently a member of the Abia State House of Assembly, noted that PDP was disempowering women by deny them opportunities to contest elections. “Today, women are more than 50 per cent of the population. They are articulate, very good organisers, good administrators and when you deny more than 50 per cent of the population participation in governance, what does that imply? “You are segregating, you are like you don’t regard them, you are disempowering them and that means you don’t think that these great women of Abia who have done so much in their various spheres, in their homes and offices, can add value to governance in Abia State,” she said, while responding to a question on her opinion on why there was no female candidate of Abia PDP for the 2019 general elections. Continuing, she said: “I felt that is a very wrong attitude by the party. Today, gender inclusion is it all over the world. Gender inclusion is highly advocated everywhere and for any party that thinks that gender inclusion is not important or did not adhere to that, then there is something wrong. “I want to say that that is a very wrong thing done by the party because I know that women, of whom I am one, can add great value to governance in our homes, in our communities, in the country. “We have testimonies of several women who have governed Nigeria at various levels. You have somebody like Oby Ezekwesili, she is a powerful woman today, we all acknowledged today to have done well. We have Dora Akunyili and she did very well. You also have people like us. In my Aba North State Constituency, I can acknowledge I have done very well for my people. “Well, I know the contempt has been there and everywhere, how they deny women opportunity. For me, that is no longer an issue because I have moved on because I know I can add value from somewhere else and that I have done.” She said she has “stepped out to fight for the reclamation of freedom and dignity” of Abia people. “The people who you thought would make good governors have failed us and I humbly ask you to give us a chance,” she begged Abians. If elected Abia Governor, Mrs Nwagba promises to transform the agricultural sector, create conducive environment for small businesses to thrive, organize and empower the youth and lead a government based on equity, among others programmes.

Ezeonwuka to Tansian varsity: ‘Pay me my N23m debt now or...’ By IBE NWACHUKWU

n industrialist, Chief Rommy Ezeonwuka has asked the Proprietor of Tansian University, Oba/Umunya campuses in Anambra state to pay him the outstanding N23 million rent owed him for citing the university inside the premises of Ranent Industries Company Limited at Oba, as a take-off campus. He said after the October 26, 2010 terms of settlement which was used as a consent judgement, the proprietor of the university, Monsignor John Bosco Akam had paid him N10 million annually as agreed from 2010 till few years ago when he stopped paying. He said he might be tempted to return to court at Ogidi to challenge the stoppage of the payment of N10 million annually to him by Monsignor

Akam and to recover the outstanding N23 million debt which is a little above two years now, adding that by April this year, another N5 million first year installment would be added to the debt profile to raise it to N28 million. Addressing newsmen at his residence at Oba, Ezeonwuka who is the Ogilisi of Igbo land and proprietor of Rojenny Games Village, Obosi, Anambra state, recalled that in the consent judgement, it was agreed that in the consent judgement granted to him by an Ogidi High Court in October, 2010 in Suit No. HID./89/2008 (Ranent Industries Company Limited and Chief Romanus Amandi Ezeonwuka plaintiffs) Versus (Tansian University and Very Rev. Monsignor Dr. JohnBosco Akam defendants) that the first plaintiff, Ranent Industries would house the first defendant,

Tansian university for 25 years on a Build and Transfer Basis, BOT from October 1, 2010 to September 30, 2035 at an agreed honorarium of N10 million yearly. He further recalled that the consent judgement also directed that after September 30, 2035, the property shall reverse to the owner, Ranent industries, unless another contract is re-entered, adding that the annual agreed honorarium due shall be paid from on two installments per annum thus N5 million on or before November 30 each academic year, while the second installment be paid on or before April 30 of same academic year. The consent judgement which was jointly signed by both Ezeonwuka for himself and Ranent Industries; Monsignor Akam for himself; Prof. Nduka Urai for the University; Dr. Linus Uchay, Chief Joe Ifedobi, Mr.

Anikwe Ejike Emma and other witnesses, also stated that the agreed yearly honorariumshall be subject to review after every five years which rate shall not exceed 50 percent of the existing sum at the time of review upon demand by the land owner. It also stated that out of the initial N23.1 million paid by Akam to Ezeonwuka, that N10 million shall be refunded to Akam which shall be spread equally over the first 10 years and deducted from each year’s honorarium as it is paid to Ranent Industries Limited, adding that all pending suits matters and criminal complaints shall be withdrawn and they shall abate.

2019: We won’t tolerate election rigging -- Umahi Campaign Organization From CHINEDU NWAFOR, Abakaliki

• Ogun State Governor, Ibikunle Amosun releasing a pigeon during the special parade and laying of wreath to commemorate the 2019 Armed Forces Remembrance Day, Tuesday, at the Arcade ground, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta

How I attracted 7 road projects for Onitsha – Chuba-Ikpeazu By Theo Rays, Onitsha

ember representing Onitsha Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Lynda Chuba-Ikpeazu has said that her experience, knowledgeability and determination to offer her constituents effective representation made it possible for her to attract seven roads constructed at Fegge, Onitsha under Ecology office in Abuja and other projects to Onitsha Federal Constituency. Ikpeazu who spoke to newsmen through her Special Assistant, Hon. Uche Okune, said when the Ecology office which she was the deputy chairman was to defend their last year’s budget proposal the South East was not captured in their projects. Ikpeazu kicked against it and threatened to oppose it before they now came for a compromise. He said the South East has not been benefitting from the Ecology fund projects, rather the North and the South South have been the major beneficiaries of the fund. However, officials of the agency were quoted as saying that they routed the money meant for Ecol-

ogy projects in the South East through their Governors. Anambra State was said to have collected N6.1billion between the administration of the former Governor, Peter Obi and the incumbent, Willie Obiano. The last tranche of the amount of about N1.9billion was paid to Governor Obiano in the last lap of his first tenure. Part of the agreement the officials of the Ecology office reached with Hon. Ikpeazu was to complete the Greater River Niger-Otumoye Erosion and Flood Control and Road Construction in continuation of previous projects around Ochanja. This led to the construction of the seven roads to control flooding around the area during the rainy season. The roads which have been completed are Obosi Street, Bishop Shanahan Street, Palmer Street, Sheba Street, Mbaukwu Street, Mbonu Street among others. The re-channeling of the remaining drainage, said Okune, who is the Constituency Office Manager for Ikpeazu was still on-going. However, these were not the first time Hon. Ikpeazu attracted road

projects to her constituents. Ogalonye/Williams Street around Main Market were done through the intervention of Federal Road Maintenance Agency (FERMA) at the instance of Ikpeazu. He said the legislator has intervened in other areas such as provision of transformers, empowerment of less privileged, training of youths, provision of hospital equipment worth about 22 million naira, provision and rectification of boreholes among others. Okune said the legislator in the next few days will give out 42 Keke NAPEP and eight truck type to people who are not necessarily members of his party. He said the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), candidate is not a major challenger in the February poll “Lynda is shoulder above all others contesting for this seat. She has the experience. Going to National Assembly is not a tea party. You must be knowledgeable. You must be accessible. She has used one number since she first went to the House in 1999. Where she is living in her Father’s House, the two gates are always open” said Hon. Okune.

ivine Mandate Campaign Council, a platform set up by Ebonyi State Governor David Umahi, for his reelection as well as other Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidates, has warned security agencies and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the All Progressives Congress (APC) against taking actions capable of jeopardizing the credibility of the upcoming general election in the state. Director of Strategy of the council, Emmanuel Igwe, in a statement in Abakaliki, said the people of the were solidly behind the governor and Peoples Democratic party (PDP) candidate, David Umahi. Igwe noted that the people were desirous of having governor Umahi beyond 2019 because of his wonderful achievements in the last three years. He berated the APC governorship candidate in the state, Senator Sunday Ogbuoji, for dismissing the governor’s achievements as ‘cosmetics’ and challenged him to show his achievements as a senator for eight years. He boasted that the massive turnout of voters that would be witnessed during the kickoff of the PDP campaign rally in Ikwo on 17th of January will shock the opposition in the state. He said: “We are ready for the election, and we are solidly behind the governor because of his commitment towards the development of the state. In the last three years, Ebonyi has been transformed beyond recognition. Thousands of Ebonyians have also been empowered.We want him to continue and we shall give him our votes come March 2nd. “Security agencies, INEC and the All Progressives Congress are warned against plots to twist the outcome of the election. “Off course, Ebonyians will resist such attempt. We shall not accept anything except free, fair and credible elections in the state”.

The Oracle Today Wednesday January 23, 2019

CENTRAL BANK OF NIGERIA www.cbn.gov.ng

Signed: Management

In furtherance of the transparency and full disclosure stance of the Central Bank of Nigeria, the Monetary Policy Committee has decided that henceforth the lending rates obtainable in all Deposit Money Banks (DMBs) be made public to guide business decisions. Consequently, find below the applicable rates for each of the DMBs as at January 11, 2019. The rates will also be available on the website of the Central Bank of Nigeria

The Oracle Today Wednesday January 23, 2019

NEWS Okowa, Uduaghan, Ibori praise ex-gov’s late father From JONATHAN AWANYAI, Asaba

elta State Governor, Senator Dr Ifeanyi Okowa, his predecessor, Dr Emmanuel Uduaghan and former Governor James Ibori, last weekend, mourned as the remains of High Chief Williams Ibori was laid to rest saying, he was a peacemaker and stabiliser. Vice Presidential Candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Mr Peter Obi, Governor of Edo State, Mr Godwin Obaseki, former Governor of Edo State, Chief Lucky Igbenedion, Deputy Governor of Delta State, Barr. Kingsley Otuaro, former Deputy Governor Benjamin Elue and personalities from different parts of the world attended the day of tribute held at the Oghara Township Stadium before the internment took place at the residence of the deceased. According to Governor Okowa, “together, we mourn this afternoon, we mourn because, he died suddenly, Oghara is our political base, and he was a father to all of us who visit our leader, Chief James Ibori in Oghara; he played a major role in my becoming the Governor of Delta State.” “I will forever remain grateful to Chief William Ibori; he was a great man and he was a member of the Delta State Advisory Council; we know that he has played his role as a father and a community leader; we pray that God will console the family,” Governor Okowa said. To Dr Uduaghan, the deceased “was a pillar in this state, a great adviser, and severally, we called on him to settle dispute in any part of Delta State.” Former Governor Ibori in an emotion-laden speech, said, “Uncle William as I used to call him was a father to all of us; it was indeed very sad that we stand here today preparing to lay him to rest, his death was a big shock. God knows best but we would have wished that he gave us some notice.” “God called him and he answered the call like every one of us will do and on this occasion, mine is to wish him well and to thank him for what he was to everyone of us,” the former Governor stated. In a related development, Governor Okowa has urged Nigerians to live a worthy life and contribute to the development of their communities. The governor made the call at the funeral service of Senator David Dafinone held at Bethel Baptist Church, Sapele, Delta State. According to the governor, “live a life that is worthy, a life that will touch other people’s lives positively bearing in mind that after you have gone, you will only be remembered by what you did when you were alive.” “In whatever we do, we should consider the feeling of others, we must make impact in our communities because, people can only love you when you have made impact on the life of people back home,” the governor said, adding, “I must condole the family of late Senator Dafinone, it is my hope that the Lord will receive his soul; we are very proud of him; he touched a lot of lives and played a lot of roles to grow the accounting profession and the roles he played in the building of the Palace of the Orodje of Okpe cannot be forgotten,” Governor Okowa who attended the burial ceremony accompanied by political aides stated. Bishop Diamond Emuobo in a sermon at the ceremony, urged Christians to make the society better through their actions.

2019: Year of election rigging, bloodletting for Nigerians, freedom for Biafra – Bishop Udeh By IBE NWACHUKWU

eneral Overseer of Mount Zion Faith Global Liberation Ministries, Incorporated, Nnewi , Anambra State, Bishop Abraham Chris Udeh has prophesied that 2019 would be a year of freedom and dominion for the kingdom of the East and the Easterners(Biafra), while Nigerians would witness massive election rigging leading to disaster, catastrophe and Boko Haram/herdsmen blood shedding. In his 2019 prophesy, made available to newsmen in Onitsha, Anambra state, recently, Bishop Udeh contended that catastrophe would burst out based on the Biblical injunction which states that there would be no peace for the wicked. According to the cleric, “On several occasions, I have admonished President Muhammadu Buhari to resign and hand over to his vice, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo whom I consider to be wiser and more articulate than himself if really he is Buhari. But he remained on seat apparently to die on it”. “As for Biafra, he continued, the incoming of the kingdom that will

lead to our freedom and Dominion is around the corner, which is why I am regarding 2019 as our year of freedom and dominion. “For the kingdom of the East and the Easterners, i.e biafra, there will be freedom and Ddminion but to the Nigerians, there will be election rigging which will lead to disaster, Boko Haram/herdsmen blood shedding, because bible, said, there is no peace for the wicked”. “For Biafrans, the incoming of the kingdom that will lead to our freedom and Dominion is around the corner, which is why am calling upon all the agitators of biafra to retrieve from APC party and fight for our right. Nigeria will know no peace until the kingdom of the East is restored”. “There will be campaign disaster amongst opposition parties. I call on President Muhammadu Buhari to resign from Nigeria’s leadership because he is not competent to lead the country to eldorado and besides God can only use a unified person to lead the nation, since Buhari is not a unified person. “God told me in a vision to tell Buhari to resign immediately for anoth-

er person to lead the nation because He (God) is not happy with him as a result of his nepotic actions. “It was also revealed to me that the northerners are preparing for war. The herdsmen attack will be rampant if not checkmated by the Armed forces”. “To Adams Oshiomhole, the national Chairman of APC and my fellow Christian, I viewed his prayers in a function in Imo state campaign rally which proves to me that he is a prayer warrior, the message of the Lord for you is to shun rigging of election. “To the lNEC chairman and coworkers, God forbids them from rigging the election because the wrath of the Lord will flush the house hold of such a person who might try to indulge in such an act and the Lord has spoken. “We should pray against a very big bridge in traffic which will collapse leading to massive death. We should pray against fire outbreaks this year, assassination attempts among the politicians”. “Nigeria authorities should be careful over students’ demonstra-

tion which will lead to massive death of students in tertiary institutions. I am seeing war in some African countries like Congo, Cameroon and others. European Union should be careful over Islamic control and attacks. “The seat of American president is being shaken by the illuminatis, Free Mason i.e he will not be impeached. We should pray for the British monarch the bell of her death is ringing. We should also pray against the death of three former Heads of State this year. “I saw planes carrying a lot of passengers entering Mediterranean Sea and one of them is carrying the military personnel. The rate of kidnapping in Nigeria will be very alarming, government should be careful. Cultism will be the order of the day. “I call on Buhari to effect immediate release of El Zak Zaki and Dasuki else there will be more blood sheds. I admonish the Government to adhere to the rule of law. All Biafran supporters should resign their appointments from Nigeria government and join hands in fighting for the restoration of Biafra,” he said.

INEC woos traditional rulers towards successful polls

From ANIEKAN ANIEKAN, Calabar

• Second from left Pastor Victor Igwe with Wife Mrs Peace Igwe (first right) during the wedding ceremony of Faith Chioma Onyeagba and Godsgift Chimdozirim Madu held on Saturday at the Kingdom Dominion Church Inc Abakpa Nike Enugu Photo: Oliver Udeogu

Foundation distributes N5m items to 2,000 widows in Anambra

By IBE NWACHUKWU

arious items estimated at N5 million were recently distributed to over 2,000 widows and less privileged ones by a Non-Governmental Organization, NGO, Ebuka Okafor Foundation, EOF, as part of its corporate social responsibilities and empowerment programmes for the widows in the society. The items distributed in the presence of some dignitaries in attendance who included the Traditional Ruler of Nnobi, Igwe Nich Obi, Anambra Central Senatorial aspirant, under the platform of PDP, Iyom Uche Ekwunife, among others, were Generator sets, Sowing machines, Hair driers, cartons of tin tomatoes, tummy-tummy Noodles, Bags of Rice, Onions, Garri, Beans, Clothes, among others. Distributing the materials, shortly after a church service at the All Saints’ Anglican Church, Ifite-Ebenesi Nnobi in Idemili South Local Government Area of Anambra State, the founder of Ebuka Okafor Foundation, Sir Ebuka Okafor revealed that what motivated him in setting up the

foundation was to touch lives and alleviate the sufferings of the people who are living in agony. Okafor who is also a Lagos-based business mogul and a philanthropist par excellence, further revealed that he feels delighted whenever he sees other people enjoying from the donations by the foundation, just as he feels disgusted whenever he sees the down trodden suffering from hunger and malnutrition. He stressed that his vision for setting up the foundation was anchored in the empowerment of the physically challenged, widows, less privileged, as well as mobilizing public opinion and encourage voluntary action against social evil in the society, pointing out that the foundation has so far existed for five years now. Earlier in his sermon at the church service, Rev. Ikem Calvary who cited book of 2 Kings chapter 4 vs 1-7 as a reference point, attributed thanksgiving, positive mind, having a big dream, forgetting the past issues free-will donations and philanthropic acts, among others as some of factors that can invoke Divine open door from God to the lives of the people.

In his speech, former Governor of Anambra State and Vice-Presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Mr. Peter Obi, who graced the occasion, commended Chief Sir Ebuka Okafor for his philanthropic acts and charged other affluent individuals to use their resources for the well-being of the society. Obi who is the Vice-President of Nigerian Political Aspirants, noted that Chief Okafor’s humanitarian initiative was quite commendable and worthy of emulation. Also speaking, Anambra state Commissioner for Women Affairs, Lady Ndidi Mezue, described Okafor’s deeds as magnanimous in and urged him not to relent in his touching lives initiative, since according to her, whatever a man sows, he shall reap. Some of the beneficiaries who spoke at the event, Mrs. Chinwe Nwani, Mrs. Maria Ikechukwu, Mrs. Ifeoma Ani, Mrs. Euphemia Ojukwu, Mrs. Benedict Onyenankeya and Mrs. Rebecca Egbudike, poured encomiums and accolades on Okafor, founder of the foundation and prayed God to bless him abundantly.

head of this year’s general elections, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has charged traditional rulers and institutions in Cross River State to partner with the Institution to guarantee the success of the pools. This partnership is expected to be in the area of mobilization and enlightenment of their subjects on the activities lined up for the exercise particularly in the area of collection of Personal Voters Cards (PVC). Resident Electoral Officer for Cross River State, Frankland Briyai, made this known in Calabar during a oneday interactive session with traditional rulers in Cross River State at the INEC Conference Hall in Calabar. He said the traditional rulers are expected to mobilize their subjects to come out en masse to participate the exercise and vote for candidates of their choice. “Your Eminence and Royal Highnesses, in view of the important role you have to play in mobilizing your subjects, the Commission is appealing to you to advise and mobilize your people to go out and vote in a peaceful manner. “From January 16 – 21st, the PVC collection will be at the 193 wards in the state, it is expected that you educate and mobilize registered voters that have not collected their PVC ’s to go to their wards and collect their cards”, he said. He said as custodians of peace, the traditional rulers and institutions are expected to educate their subjects to shun acts of violence as measures have been put in place to checkmate those who will want to foment crisis during the election period. In his remarks, the Obong of Calabar, Edidem Ekpo Okon Abasi Otu appreciated INEC for bringing the monarchs together and assured that they will engage with their subjects to ensure free and fair elections. He commended INEC for decongesting the pooling booths and charged INEC to ensure that election materials meant for far-flung areas should be dispatched early so that elections could start on time.

POLITICS

The Oracle Today Wednesday January 23, 2019

Let’s start by assessing the impact of WIC on Ndigbo so far. Yes every year, WIC organises a convention in the United States during which we invite our affiliates and other Igbo groups and individuals from far and near—from Europe, Asia and of course Nigeria--to come and rob minds and assess the trending events and situation of things in the world as far as Ndigbo are concerned. Our target is to make sure that those of us abroad are part of the development of Igbo land. We want to see that everybody has the desire to realise the Igbo nation of our dream. One of the things we do is to stimulate direct foreign investment as well as indirect foreign investment into Igbo land. We encourage investors--ourselves as well as our friends--to come and invest in Igbo land. On our own as WIC, we are blazing the trail. We are acting by example, we don’t just say. Right now, we are developing a Six Institute Regional Medical Centre of Excellence at Ogbaku in Imo State, not far from Owerri, indeed about 11 kilometres away from Owerri. We have 50 hectares of land donated by Nsokpor people. Nsokpor is one of the four villages that make up Ogbaku. We have a memorandum of understanding with them and we are pursuing it energetically. It is a big project and it is being developed as a business model and not a community affair. It is going to be managed by a board and we give room for public interest. Six Institutes of Regional Medical Centre of Excellence, that’s what we have decided to bring down to our place. We believe it is going to stem the tide of our people’s medical tourism to India, which, in reality, is hurting our people because in most cases people sell their property, sell their land to be able to raise money for flight tickets and medical bills. Taking a medical trip to India is now a trend among our people at home. And the Indians are taking good advantage of that. They establish medical triage. What I mean by triage is a situation where they queue under the semblance of offering treatment but they will always refer you to India for a full-fledged treatment. That’s what they do and it is not doing our people any good because there is no continuity, no follow-up and all that. After a trip to India, one may need a follow up treatment and check-ups a few weeks after and not everybody can afford to make frequent trips to India because of the cost implications so you find out that people are not getting the desired result by flying to India. The Six Institute Medical Centre is going to reduce the rate at which our people rush to India for medical services because they will certainly receive good health care services at Ogbaku. What about education? The Nigerian education system is in shambles. ASUU is on strike for over two months now. Nothing is working in public universities in Nigeria. It is obvious now that parents who wish to give their children good education have to look beyond Nigeria. Is there any plan by WIC to improve on the quality of education in Igbo land? Yes, we have looked at that seriously and we have taken a decision on what to do. We have gone round some universities in Nigeria and some look more like glorified primary schools. From the outlays to what they do there, everything falls short of standards. We support medical missions and education missions but we discovered that the problem in education is basically poor foundation, so there has to be a strategic approach. We are looking forward to getting a world-class university established for our people. A committee has been set up and the committee has started working. I don’t want to mention names. We intend to cite the university at a place that is central to our people. There is a circle of Igbo land where we have three States joined together--Abia, Imo and Anambra States. That is quite central and we have a vast land there. From Abia we have Lokpanta,

APGA deceived Cross fire : Enugu PDP to me but I found solace in APC: You have arsonists PDP--Igwe in your midst Pg 10

Pg 12

Our plans to develop Igbo land, by WIC boss

• Tasks Ndigbo on massive participation in 2019 polls • Says self-determination best option for Ndigbo Today, there are many pro-Igbo groups both at home and in the Diaspora. Virtually all of them are saying the same thing about the need to develop Igbo land and move it to the next level. All of them are worried about the challenges of marginalisation and neglect facing Ndigbo in Nigeria. They are worried about the poor state of education and healthcare and lack of infrastructure. However, in most cases, people are not aware of what these groups do towards realising the Igbo of their dream. One of such groups in the Diaspora is World Igbo Congress (WIC). WIC is noted for organising an annual event in the United States called World Igbo Convention. The Oracle Today caught up with the Chairman of WIC Professor Anthony Ejiofor, who fielded questions from our Correspondent on the impact the WIC has so far made on Ndigbo and the plans toward realising the Igbo nation of their dream. Ejiofor, a Professor of Micro Biology at Tennessee State University also spoke on the agitation for Biafra, clamour for restructuring and the forthcoming general election in Nigeria. Excerpts:

•Bishop Chukwuma Lokpaukwu, Isuochi to Okigwe axis in Imo State and Umunze, Ogbunka in Anambra. This axis could make a State of their own but they are scattered in three States. So, we are looking at putting down a world-class university there for the benefit of our people. And we are going for the best standard from the structure, the layout and the services. You know that the University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN) was designed by experts from Michigan State University and on the completion of the university, it gave Nsukka a pride of place in Nigeria before the war.

So, we are planning to establish a university in that class and I can assure you that work is already under way. What is your take on the Igbo question in Nigeria, most especially on the issue of Biafra? The pro-Biafra groups are saying that Ndigbo have to opt out of Nigeria because they cannot continue to be part of a country where they cannot occupy any top position in the federal administration. They cannot produce the President, they cannot be Chief of Defence Staff, they cannot be

Chief Army Staff, they cannot be Inspector General of Police and all that. Do you agree with that? Yes, what they are saying is true. If you look at the statistics at the moment, you will find that the Igbo man has been completely edged out of the mainstream of Nigerian affairs. That has been the situation since after the war and it is most unfortunate. After the war, they introduced the 3Rs. You remember that--Reconciliation, Rehabilitation and

Cont’d on page 11

The Oracle Today Wednesday January 23, 2019

POLITICS

APGA deceived me but I found solace in PDP--Igwe

On his background and foray into politics My name is Chief Emeka Vincent Igwe. I am a native of Umuogbu in Awka, Awka-South local government area of Anambra state. I grew up in Port Harcourt but did my university education at Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka. I joined the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) because I saw something remarkable in His Excellency Willie Mmaduabrochukwu Obiano. I liked his style of governance and after his talk on think-home agenda, I decided to come back to Anambra State to see if I could contribute my own quota to the development and welfare of our people. I worked for him during his re-election on Nov 18th, 2017. I also worked for Victor Umeh on 13th January, 2018. I invested my money and time to make sure they were delivered in my ward and constituency respectively. Their motto is Be Your Brother’s Keeper and I believed that our leader His Excellency Willie Obiano was a very principled person because he told us that the primary elections would be free and fair; that there is no sacred cow and anointed son and that everybody should go to the field if you desired to contest for any position under the party. He said it on so many occasions and a lot of people like me believed that that was the true position but alas, that was where the extortion started. Aspirants were extorted massively--both by people in government and people in the party. People were massively extorted for tickets! It wasn’t a matter of buying the tickets but it was more of fair play. The incumbent already had power; had resources and godfathers! Now those vying against them didn’t have all of those so they tried to buy allegiance and that was when they got extorted. After the extortion, we all believed that at the end of the day, the election would be free and fair but unfortunately, in most constituencies, the primaries did not hold but results were produced and winners were declared. How and when those happened, most of us don’t know. In my constituency, 4th October, 2018 was the date that was scheduled for the primary elections. It was supposed to be at Awka-South local government Secretariat but under 24hours that location was changed to King David Hotel Awka. I got to know about King David the morning of the election day that the location had been changed. I was overwhelmed because I know that King David hotel is where my opponent has a stake. He is like a part-owner of the hotel. At that point, I knew something was wrong and the reason they gave was that the secretariat was not in Awka; that it was in Amawbia. Eventually, we went there hoping that the primaries would hold but at the end of the day, he brought thugs, most of them from his village and filled the whole place and there was commotion. The Returning Officer Law Chinwuba had to calm the place down and started calling names of statutory delegates. Furthermore, from the documents we were given we were told that the statutory delegates would be chairmen, women leader and youth leader respectively. So, when they called the chairman for ward 1 he came out. They called the youth leader he came out. But when they called the name of the woman leader, it wasn’t the woman leader of the ward that came out. They called the assistant but the woman leader insisted that she was the woman leader; that her assistant could not take her position and that was how the commotion started and the Returning Officer announced that the election had been postponed indefinitely, that all the stakeholders would be communicated if there was any change and they all left. Before long I got a rumour that they would hold the primaries at Suncity Hotel Awka, which is opposite King David Hotel. I immediately called the state chairman of APGA and he said it was not true, that they were still in a meeting, that it was after the meeting that they would decide whether it would hold or not. All the same, we went to Suncity Hotel, sat there and waited patiently . We were at Suncity Hotel till 12 midnight just to be sure that nothing happened and really nothing happened, only for me to hear that Nnamdi Okafor had been given the certificate of return that the election was conducted and he won, that the election was conducted at Suncity Hotel where we were till 12 midnight and nothing happened! I went to the state chairman to complain and he said there was nothing he could do about it and that the national chairman had decided that it was Nnam-

•Says most people in APGA have PDP running in their veins

Chief Emeka Vincent Igwe, an accomplished Port Harcourt-based businessman was driven by Governor Willie Obiano’s leadership style and think-home philosophy to return home to contribute his token to rural and urban development. His burning desire to bring about change in Awka-South 1 state constituency and Anambra at large prompted him to pursue his political ambition to the Anambra State House of Assembly on the platform of the All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA) but events took a dramatic turn as his hope was dashed because the party allegedly deceived him and siphoned his hard-earned money without recourse to fair-play. But he found solace in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) where he became the candidate of the party for Awka-South 1 in this year’s general election. In this interview with OZO RAY in Awka, Chief Igwe recounts his ordeals in APGA and why he has only harsh words for the National Chairman of the party, Chief Victor Oye.

•Chief Emeka Vincent Igwe di Okafor. I said but the primaries did not hold and they told me that there was absolutely nothing they could do to change the situation, that the matter had been decided. We bought forms at N1m each. We paid N10,000 each for adhoc delegates, for people in all the wards and after spending all the money, they didn’t conduct the primaries. It’s fraud as far as I am concerned. It was after sometime that I heard that the election they said held, that I got 24 votes while he got 30 votes. So he won by 6 votes. I was not there. I didn’t sign the result sheet. It was funny how election could happen in somebody’s absence and the person still got votes. Be that as it may, I decided that APGA wasn’t credible enough and I found my way out of the party. As I joined the PDP after my ugly encounter with APGA, I found out that PDP is a better and more credible alternative. I found out that they were more organized and very receptive. The PDP is a bigger party with national outlook unlike the former one that resides within Anambra State only. So, my experience with APGA wasn’t palatable. It was indeed a terrible encounter. They don’t appreciate integrity but I am happier where I am now. In other words, what you are saying is that APGA deceived you? Yes. They deceived not just me but a whole lot of people. But if you are to score APGA, how much will you score the party judging from your experience with it? Anyway you would have to separate the party from the Executive arm because they are two different entities. The governor is doing very well. The governor is the reason I am in Anambra State today vying for this position. I believe he has the interest of Ndi-Anambra at heart. But the party is a different ballgame al-

together. The National Chairman of APGA who should take responsibility for all that happened in the primaries, is supposed to have resigned from office by now knowing that he did horrible things in the party’s primary elections. If he were to be scored for the conduct of APGA primaries, I would say he scored less than zero. So for me, APGA is not for Ndigbo. It is for the National Chairman and his cronies! So why PDP when there are other alternatives to explore? Credibility! If you look at the primaries, you find that PDP is the only major political party not in court over conduct of primaries. In APC, a lot of people are in court. In APGA, 80% are in court but you can’t find PDP in court over the conduct of its primaries because everybody accepted the outcome in good faith. Do you also think that Awka-South 1 State Constituency has embraced PDP because Anambra is almost a one-party state? I think so because APGA is a part of PDP. Most people in APGA have PDP running in their veins. We all wanted to identify with our leader Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu by supporting the party he blessed and sanctified for the Igbo race. If not for the way the primary elections were conducted, APGA would have had two or three more states in the southeast. But the primaries were handled very immaturely and they made a mess of the whole process! PDP has 80% stronghold in my constituency against APGA and because of the way the primaries were handled, a lot of people have decamped from APGA to PDP in my constituency. Why the zeal to represent Awka-South 1 State Constituency in the 7th Anambra Assembly ? Primarily for the welfare of my people. As a legislator, there is not much you can do. The

major work is to make laws, sponsor bills and motions as well as oversight duties. But for my constituents and coming from the State capital Awka, the development in this area has not been much. The Governor’s Operation Light-Up Anambra State is working even in my constituency. Three flyovers have been built in my local government area but it is not enough. My primary job is to the grassroots. People in the villages are suffering. Infrastructure is very poor in the villages and cost of living is high. Although it is not the fault of the governor but if elected, I intend to find out if there is any law in place that mandates government to invest a certain portion of revenue in the state capital and if there is none, I intend to sponsor one. Awka is the state capital and it is worth something like that. If you come to Awka, you won’t believe it the capital of Anambra state because there is nothing to show for it. So a certain amount of money should be earmarked for the development of Awka capital territory. Secondly, I will make sure that certain key projects are put in the budget for the development of my constituency because part of the functions of a legislator is appropriation. I also intend to attract more infrastructural development to my constituency through Non-Governmental Organisations especially to address erosion devastation in my constituency. I will also look at the Nigeria Erosion and Watershed Management Programme (NEWMAP) to see what they can do for us to tackle environmental challenges. Thirdly, constituency allowance for constituency projects. We intend to earmark a certain amount of money for rural market women at zero interest rate as well as make it rotational. The essence is to empower them to empower their families and reduce poverty in the remote villages and communities. Having highlighted some of your priority areas if elected, are you by any means trying to discredit the performance of the incumbent representative? He has not done anything for the constituency. If there is one thing he has done, let him show it. I have been here for a couple of years and I have asked questions and there is absolutely nothing that he has done. His predecessor Kenechukwu Chukwuemeka did far better than him. He has no list of constituency achievements. He has never mentioned anything that he has done but keeps saying that the people should vote for him that he would be a ranking member of the House if re-elected. He failed woefully and has accepted his abysmal performance. So, you are also saying that his inability to prove his mettle is an added advantage to you? If he had done well, I would not be contesting against him. He doesn’t understand what it takes to be a legislator! The 2019 election is around the corner; are you nursing fears that the election in your constituency may be rigged in favour of the incumbent? The election cannot be rigged. Although most people are still being carried away by the euphoria of 21/21 that the governor scored in 2017, the forthcoming election is not an APGA affair like before because nobody will sit down and watch people rig election. I can tell you confidently that PDP will win all-round. PDP will win the presidency. PDP will win senatorial seats, reps seats and also win seats in the State House of Assembly. PDP has learnt from its mistakes and am optimistic about our landslide victory in the forthcoming general election.

The Oracle Today Wednesday January 23, 2019

POLITICS

Our plans to develop Igbo land, by WIC boss

•The community of Nd’Igbo in Diaspora under the aegis of World Igbo Congress (WIC)

Cont’d from page 9 Reconstruction? You remember where the Igbo man was before the war and how he lost everything to the war? But they overlooked the huge investments and establishments we lost to the war and brought £20 for rehabilitation at the point they Nigerianised the county’s operations and the Yoruba people bought everything and took over everywhere. The Igbo had nothing to buy and there was and still is no opportunity for him. Is that what you call rehabilitation? And where is the Reconstruction? We don’t have that. There is no federal presence in the entire Southeast States. No federal institutions, no seaport and no airports and roads—the roads are very bad. What we have in Enugu and Owerri as international and cargo airports are not worth it. You cannot compare Enugu Airport with Muritala Mohammed Airport or with any international airport around the world. And you know what? According to statistics in the American Embassy, 53% of Nigerians who travel by air are the people from the South East geopolitical zone, the people from Biafra land. Again they said after the war that there was going to be reconciliation. Where is that reconciliation? I don’t see it. For instance, each time there is election, you see horse- trading underneath before the election and before you know it, the Igbo man is edged out. In terms of appointments, the Igbo people are side-lined. Under this situation, no matter how strong you are, no matter how tough you are, your mind is bound to shake, you are bound to fee bad. I personally feel bad that the Igbo man has been given the short end of the stick in the Nigerian political process and it means that the future of Igbo land may never be realised unless we have the power for self- determination and power for self-actualisation. And good enough, there is a United Nations Declaration on the right to self determination by Indigenous Peoples of the world, which was signed by all countries in the United Nations way back in 2007. Initially, America didn’t want to sign it because of fears that American Indians who are indigenous people will rise up and say they want to go. But

America later signed it. So, the Igbo and those occupying the old Eastern Region are Indigenous People and they have the right to self-determination but if Nigeria says it still wants us, that is fine but it has to create the enabling environment, to make us feel that we are wanted. Nigeria has to give room for us to sit down and talk about our position in the country. We have to sit down and talk about our security, about regional territory and regional resources so that we can control what we have and use what we have to develop our place at our own pace. The Constitution we have is not the product of the people. The Igbo man was not part of the table where the Constitution that rules him was produced. From Independence till date, they have been amending the Constitution, which was schemed by the British. The 1999 Constitution is a product of the military and the Igbo man had no input in it and each time they organise a Confab, the outcome is hardly ever implemented. So, I feel that the future of Igbo land depends on our right to self-determination. I don’t blame those who are agitating for the restoration of Biafra because the situation in Nigeria is never favourable to us but as I said, if Nigeria still wants us, it has to make us feel that we are wanted and allow us to sit down and talk. Some people are of the opinion that Ndigbo are also part of their own problems because in most cases, they don’t speak with one voice; those holding political offices don’t perform well and again a large chunk of Igbo society doesn’t participate in the political process. What is your reaction to this? Yes, sometimes we hurt ourselves in some ways. I remember how, during the last National Census, MASSOB disrupted the exercise in some parts of Igbo land--from Okigwe to Aba, Owerri to Onitsha and so on. And that was a big problem because the real number of people in Igbo land couldn’t be ascertained. This time, IPOB is asking people to boycott the forthcoming elections. I don’t think that that is proper because it won’t lead to actualising Biafra. You cannot get Biafra in one month or months or even in one year because it takes a long process. So, there is no point boycotting the election if don’t have immediate workable alterna-

tives. You don’t create a vacuum where you don’t have an alternative. If you say you don’t count us during census what is the immediate alternative? If you say don’t vote during elections, what is the immediate alternative? Again, the people serving in government in Igbo land are not doing well enough. They don’t live up to the expectations of the people. They don’t do what they were elected to do. They don’t do what the people asked them to go and do, so there are nostalgic feelings, despondency and all that. And when you ask them to come and vote, they will tell you there is no point because those who we have been voting for are not doing anything meaningful for us. I remember a sitting governor telling us, sometime ago, that he was not an Igbo leader rather he was only a Nigerian leader serving in Igbo land. You cannot say such a thing. As a governor in Igbo land, you are an Igbo leader for goodness sake because the Igbo people are your subjects. They proscribed IPOB as a terrorist group because they feel that their position as Nigerians leaders was threatened. IPOB are your children and you have to treat them as a father would treat his children, bring them along, talk with them and find out what their feelings are and what they want from you as a father. You reject them because you feel that your position as the chief security officer in the State is threatened. So, those who were given the mandate to serve the people should endeavour to live up to expectations so that people will have confidence in what is happening in government quarters. I believe that that will go along way in enhancing political participation among our people. The presidential election is a few weeks away and the two major contenders are wooing Ndigbo in two different directions. The APC is dangling Igbo President in 2023 saying that if Ndigbo join forces with APC to re-elect President Muhammadu Buhari, the party will concede Presidency in 2003 to Ndigbo. PDP on the other hand is saying give us your votes and we will restructure Nigeria in six months. In your own opinion, which one should Ndigbo choose? I don’t believe in any of them because I don’t see the possibility of what they are talking about happening. Igbo APC politi-

cians are speaking from one side of their mouth. Have they met with President Buhari and other leaders of APC like Tinubu and APC governors to discus that? I don’t think so. So, what are they talking about? What will be the position of the Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo and APC leaders who are from the South West? I am talking about Bola Tinubu in 2023. The South West is strongly rooted in APC and they have already indicated their interest in 2023, so how are you going to address their interest viz-a-viz Igbo Presidency in APC? Furthermore, APC is about four years old and you remember that they made promises before taking over power, have they fulfilled those promises? What are the achievements of the party in Igbo land? The Federal roads in the South East are in shambles. Coming to Enugu from Awka, I had to drive through the old road, which was reconstructed by the governor of Enugu State as I was reliably told because the expressway is terribly bad. Why hasn’t APC fixed the Onitsha - Enugu expressway? What is the guarantee that Buhari will fix the road for easy ride from Onitsha to Enugu if given another four years? These are the questions begging for answers. For these reasons I am not in a hurry to say that APC is the right path to Igbo Presidency. Coming to PDP, Buhari and Atiku are the same thing. What I mean by the same thing is that they are both Fulani and it appears that the Fulanis have overriding agenda that keep on generating suspense among Nigerians. Yes, Peter Obi our own is with Atiku but the question is whether they are going to allow Obi a free hand to operate. Obi is tested going by what he did as Governor of Anambra State. I am from Anambra State. Obi is very vast and grounded in the economy with facts and figures in his palm; if they are going to allow him a free hand to operate, that’s fine because I know he is going to make positive impact. I know there are negotiations about restructuring and PDP say they will restructure in 6months, but how possible is that? For me, the sum of the whole thing is for Ndigbo to look beyond 2019 election, look beyond 2023 Presidency and work towards self-determination. But, like I said it doesn’t stop Ndigbo from coming out to vote during the elections.

The Oracle Today Wednesday January 23, 2019

POLITICS By NANA OGBODO

his evening, five campaign vehicles branded with pictures of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in Enugu State , His Excellency, Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi and that of his running mate, Her Excellency, Mrs. Cecilia Ezeilo, were set ablaze by yet to be identified hoodlums at the Tickles Centre, along Osadebe Street opposite WTC, Ogui, New Layout, Enugu. It must be noted that this is not the first time such attack is visited on the campaign facilities of the PDP in Enugu State by those who are obviously uncomfortable with the existing peace and good governance in the state since the inception of the present administration. We are not unaware of the apparent confusion in some opposition camps given that there is practically no attempt on

Cross fire : Enugu PDP to APC: You have arsonists in your midst their parts at campaigning to the Enugu electorate. This despicable resort to arson runs contrary to the prevailing mood in the state which is arguably the most peaceful in the country. We therefore deprecate this dastardly act and view it as the climax of their crass desperation

and inordinate pursuit for power. We hereby call on the general public to be aware of this ugly development and urge our teeming supporters to continue to remain calm and law abiding even in the face of this inexplicable provocation. The matter has been formally re-

ported to the appropriate authorities and we have implicit faith in their capacity to bring the culprits to book. •Ogbodo is Director of Communications, PDP Campaign Organisation, Enugu State

APC: PDP’S claim of arson diversionary; there is evidence you set the fires yourself! By OKEY EZIRIGWE

he attention of Ayogu Eze Campaign Organisation has been drawn to a report on auto fire incident involving PDP campaign vehicles in Enugu and wish to deplore in very strong terms any act of arson or violence whatsoever perpetrated by any person or group in the name of politics. Much as we sympathize with owners of the said vehicles over this undesirable conflagration and thank God that no life was lost, we regret the hasty conclusion of the PDP that the fire incident was a case of arson involving the opposition parties in the State even when they acknowledged to have reported the incident to the appropriate authorities whom they claimed they had implicit faith in their capacity to bring the culprits to book. We view this preemptive allegation with suspicion and are compelled to presume that this was a self-perpetrated arson involving the PDP aimed at eliciting public sympathy over their wobbling re-election bid while painting the opposition parties in bad light. We urge the police to take all necessary steps to unearth the people behind these creeping acts of violence, which appear to be coming as a foretaste of the unsavory broth being prepared for the people of Enugu State in the forthcoming elections by those desperate to retain the power that is rapidly slipping out of their hands. The import of what the PDP release on the incident referred to as “…the apparent confusion in some opposition camps given that there is practically no attempt on their parts at campaigning to the Enugu electorate” and “this despicable resort to arson” is not lost on us.

•Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi

We have nothing to say to them on this except to once again urge the police to diligently investigate the matter to find out the true culprits. However, we need remind members of the public that barely a month ago when the campaign office and vehicles of an acclaimed APC governorship aspirant, a known protege of the state governor who foots the bills of all his political activities, was set on fire, this same disingenuous attempt was made by agents of this government to blame the APC for the incident. But the allegation couldn’t go any farther as it turned out that the arson was contrived, processed, cooked and served on his own property by the said aspirant working in cahoots with agents of the state government all in desperate attempts to smear the image of our Principal who is an easy-going, peacefu man. It is on record that our principal is the only leading candidate to have publicly called for peaceful conducts by politicians in the State in the run-up to the elections. The claim that ‘there is practically no attempt at campaigning’ on our part is another of their usual falsehoods. For, in reality, the only party campaigning towards the elections in Enugu State is the APC. We have done highly successful

•Ayogu-Ezes

zonal rallies in Enugu North and Enugu East where we enlightened the people on the failings of the Ugwuanyi government, why it must be changed and the great alternative we bring. This is preparatory to our local government tours, which are just about commencing. Our governorship house-to-house campaign is going on; our Senate, Houses of Representatives and Assembly candidates are campaigning practically everyday in their wards and constituencies. Indeed, we are firing from all cylinders. On the other hand, what the embattled PDP has done is organise what they call ‘zonal meetings’ where their hordes of discredited, underperforming politicians simply gulp and empty kegs of palmwine. Those ‘zonal meetings’ are no campaign rallies, of course, because there, they hardly talk to the people; they don’t tell them what they have done or intend to do. Because, to be fair to them, they just have nothing to show in all of their four years of uninterrupted bubbling and good-timing in government. The attempt to tar the APC with the soot of violence will continue to fail for the simple reason that the people of Enugu State know very well which of the parties has subscribed to violence

by recruiting, as leaders, extremely violent men into its fold. We have no doubt that it is these muscle men that are already scripting and directing these lowhanging acts of violence preparatory to full-blown mayhem by which they hope to win election, having seen how very unpopular this government is. On the other hand, there is no single shady character in Enugu APC. Therefore, when it comes to violence and or men who are likely to perpetrate it in the forthcoming elections in Enugu State, APC is light while PDP is pitch darkness. This much is the truth and our people already know it. While we continue to remind the PDP in the State that elections should not be a do-or-die affair, given that they have continued to recruit hardmen into the party, we call on our teeming supporters to remain law-abiding and remain focused on campaigning for our candidates for the various elections. Once again, we call on the police authorities to find the arsonists in our midst and expeditiously bring them to book. In that way, the hidden mischief would be exposed and the truth will be known. Ezirigwe is Spokesman, Ayogu Eze Campaign Organisation.

The Oracle Today Wednesday January 23, 2019

NEWS Kwara confirms cases of Lassa fever, Polio-virus, Yellow fever

wara State Government has confirmed two cases of Lassa Fever infecting a husband and wife in the state. The government also confirmed an outbreak of circulating Vaccine Derived Polio Virus (cDVPV), which claimed the life of two years old girl and a case of Yellow Fever infecting a farmer. Speaking with newsmen on Tuesday during at a news briefing, the Kwara Commissioner for Health, Alhaji Usman Rifun-Kolo said the outbreak of Lassa Fever was identified in a farm settlement in Taberu, Baruten Local Government Area. He, however, explained that the two cases of the disease involving a husband and wife were natives of Benin Republic, which has border with the state, adding that the husband and wife were farming in Baruten. “These cases of Lassa Fever originated from Benin Republic, whose citizen have inter-relations with people in Baruten area,” he said. According to him, the husband

and wife were diagnosed in a health facility, which confirmation the case, and that the state government had already deployed disease surveillance team to identify those who have been in contact with patients. Rifun-Kolo further explained that the surveillance team identified four people with history of fever in the area. He said that the four cases raised suspicion of Lassa fever, which prompted them to take samples from the individuals for further investigation. He noted that the four individuals have commenced treatment in Taberu, Baruten LGA. The commissioner also disclosed that an outbreak of circulating Derived Polio Virus (cDVPV), in a Fulani Camp in Kiiparu District of Okuta Ward in Baruten LGA has • Governor Ifeanyi Okowa accompanied by top government functionaries today attended the 2019 Armed been confirmed. Forces Remembrance Day, Interdenominational Thanksgiving Service, at Divine Way Baptist Church, Interbau He noted that the victim was a Roundabout, Asaba two years old girl with a symptom of Acute Flaccid Paralysis (AFP), adding that the World Health Organisation (WHO) confirmed the case.

Foundation organises science competition in Anambra By Oge Onyeanusi, Nnewi

Non-Governmental Organization (NGO), the Alphonsus Ofumelu Foundation (AOF), Thursday, organized science competition for secondary schools in Ayamelum Local Government Area of Anambra State. The competition held at the premises of the Community Secondary School, Igbakwu, in the council area, attracted public and mission schools within the local government, who were quizzed on basic science subjects. About 80 students participated in the quiz competition with 5 persons representing each of the 16 schools in attendance. The quiz was in written form with 100 questions covering Sciences, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. After the quiz competition, Nwabunwanne Peter Odinaka, who represented the Community Secondary School, Omor, emerged overall best with 72 marks; while Anedo Rebecca Chinwe of the Amikwe Community Secondary School, Omor, took the second position; just as Onyibor Cornelius and Nwankwo Emmanuel, who represented Mater Christi Secondary School, Umumbo; and Community Secondary School, Igbakwu; respectively shared the third position, having scored equal marks after series of drills. Speaking at the end of the com-

petition, the Coordinator of the quiz competition, Mr. Nweke Johnson Okwudili, explained that the competition was sponsored by Sir Alphonsus Ofumelu, a worthy son of Ayamelum, who is a health professional based in Canada. He said that the exercise tagged; “Science Students Quiz Competition,” was conceived to help upcoming students to develop greater interest in sciences and in technology; and to enthrone academic excellence among them. Speaking while receiving a cash prize of N50,000 from the foundation, the first prize winner, Nwabunwanne Peter Odinaka, said that his parents encouraged him to learn and show greater improvement in the sciences. He also praised his science teachers, who he said, were very dedicated and hardworking. The second prize winner, Anedo Rebecca Chinwe, who went home with N30,000, said that her strength lied in her ability to study hard; adding that she has been very versatile in reading. Mr. Chigbogu Paul Chigbogu, who said he was an independent observer, commended the initiative, which he said, will give boost to the study of sciences among students in the area; while also urging other affluent individuals to copy from Sir Ofumelu.

Tanker catches fire on Enugu- Abakaliki road

tanker said to be carrying gas moments ago fell along the ever- busy Enugu- Abakaliki road and caught fire. A witness told our correspondent the tanker seemed to have suffered brake failure as it suddenly lost control and veered into the embarkment dividing the road. Read Also: Fire guts Abakaliki rice mill “As it hit the embankment, it turned to the side spilling some of

its contents, which caught fire but not before the driver and conductor escaped to safety,” the witness said. The fire was still raging at the time of this report as all efforts by the state fire service to put it out have not been successful. The fire caused traffic gridlock on the expressway as vehicles had to look for alternative routes in or out of the city.

2019: ‘Improve your capacity’ – CKC alumni president charges youths By Theo Rays, Onitsha

head of the 2019 general election the youth segment of the society have been advised to shun thuggery and aim higher in life as the 2019 general election approaches. The admonition was given to the 1998 set of Christ the King College (CKC] Onitsha which held their first reunion recently at their Alma mater after leaving school 20 years age. During his speech the patron of the 1998 set and current President of the CKC Old Boys Association, Lagos Chapter, Barr. George Onwubuya warned the younger colleagues of the dangers of electoral

violence. He said that most political aspirants leave their children overseas and engage other ignorant youths, arming them to fight for them as they go about their political campaigns noting that such can cause untimely death severe injury, drug addiction and other electoral mal practices which could land someone in prison hence ruining ones bright future. One of the awardees and a former Biology teacher, Barr. Kenneth Umezulike reminded the old boys of the discipline instilled in them during their school days urging them to improve themselves academically. “I am glad I am being recognized

by my boys after 2oyears. Meanwhile, I have turned my disappointments to blessings .I am happy what most of you have become. After retirement, I went back to read Law. Keep studying”, said Umezulike. Early in his address, the president of the old boys 1998 set, Engr. Obumneke Onwumelu thanked Sir Anietonwa Kinsley Ajulufor and Mr. Nwachukwu Ebi for spear heading the task of reaching out to their colleagues and convening the reunion. He reiterated the burning desire to give back to the alma mater which molded and nutured their character as a social responsibility to the college.

The party made its position known on Monday in a statement by its National Chairman, Kenneth Udeze. According to him, all the executive committees of the party as well as other members maintains their ground on their support for Abubakar. The party’s chairman said its members will work for the emergence of Atiku/Obi presidency. According to him, “We are for Atiku/Obi leadership and we are glad to work with all believers of true federalism and efficient administration of governance at all levels to accomplish this as we approach the forthcoming elections. “The National Executive Committees (NEC) of our party are on the same page concerning our support for Atiku, same with all our state chapters in this matter. “We hereby restate out position through this medium that AA as a certified and active member of the Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP) has not for a moment reconsidered or wished to alter that position. “For your information, AA moved the motion for the adoption of Atiku as the Presidential Candidate of CUPP, and we are on it to the end,” he said.

“It is our unshakable/unfailing resolve to work for the emergence of Atiku/Obi, in the presidential election, and that we must not only be seen to be doing, but to truly do. “The only relationship between him (Okorocha) and AA is that Uche Nwosu is contesting on its platform and we are poised to deliver….” “I will not hesitate to invoke from relevant sections of our Party Constitution to deal with erring members no matter how highly placed, as AA constitution which I swore to protect remains supremely sacrosanct. Please be warned,” It would be recalled that during the APC womens rally in Owerri, Okorocha had declared that the relationship between AA and APC in the state as good, but added that Uzodinma (the APC candidate) would not win the governorship election. “Hope Uzodinma can never win the governorship election in the state. The alliance between AA and APC is a perfect one. We are working to deliver President Buhari and Uche Nwosu in the state.” However, Mrs Osinbajo, countered, telling the crowd to vote for Buhari and APC candidates in the forthcoming elections.

Okorocha’s party dumps Buhari, adopts Atiku

arely 72 hours after he openly disagreed with wife of the Vice President, Mrs Ibidapo Osinbajo during the All Progressives Congress (APC) rally at the Dan Anyiam Stadium, in Owerri, the Imo State Governor, Rochas Okorochafavoured, Action Alliance (AA) party, has now officially thrown its weight behind the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Atiku Abubakar, for the coming election. Okorocha remains the APC governor in Imo State but following the refusal of te party hierarchy to endorse his son-in-law as, Mr Uche Nwosu as successor and party flagbearer in the governorship poll this year, the state chief executive reportedly forged the AA party to platform his candidate’s ambitions. Although Okorocha says his son inlaw remains APC in spirit, he, however, maintains that Mr. Nwosu must succeed him as Governor of the state even though he is in AA. Meanwhile, the AA has insisted that it recognizes no other but Atiku/Obi for president and running mate. The party however said that the only link Okorocha has with it is that his son in-law is contesting under it.

The Oracle Today Wednesday January 23, 2019

NEWS

Idemili community urged to embrace Obiano’s ‘think home’ philosophy By Theo Rays, Onitsha

he Indigenes of Ire village, Ojoto community in Idemili South Local Government Area of Anambra State have been urged to embrace Governor Willie Obaino’s think- home philosophy and attract development to their community. The call was made recently during the Ire- day celebration which held

at their village hall which attracted many illustrious sons and daughters of Ojoto descents. In his speech, the Chairman, IreCooperative Union (ICU), Ojoto , Chief Hon. Martin Obika reminded his people of the importance of the Ire- day celebration which was abandoned by his predecessors for the past 15 yrs. According to him ‘’It has been 15

yrs since the last Ire – day. After the election of the new exco, we decided to host it. It is time for our people both at home, abroad and in Diaspora come together to celebrate ourselves, culture and values”. ‘’We look at the challenges facing our community and put heads together on how to bring both socio-cultural, physical and human development. Also our children use

this conviviality to know our selves better’’, said Obika. He said that within three months of assumption of office they had built and equipped a new office for the Ire vigilante group; put search lights in the Ire hall compound, conducted a 3 day skill acquisition programmers for the unemployed and open a bank account for ICU. Hon Obika who is the All progres-

FG to establish technology acquisition centre in Alex-Ekwueme varsity

Otti vows to recover Abia’s stolen funds From BONIFACE OKORO, Umuahia

bia State governorship candidate of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) for the Mach 2019 governorship election, Dr. Alex Otti, has vowed to recover all the monies belonging to the state but allegedly looted by past administrations. Otti, speaking in the course of his campaigns in Umuahia, accused past leaders of the state of stealing the state blind and vowed to recover all such funds if voted into power, adding that time to reverse the backwardness of the state has come. ”In the last 19 years, Abia has been a caricature of the states. It has been the least developed state in the South East, even in Nigeria. And what is the problem? The problem is squarely our leadership. “Do you know what our problem in Abia State is? Are we poor? We are richer than Anambra because we receive bigger allocation than them. But the problem is that the people we have given leadership in Abia State has stolen us blind. “Quite unlike what people tell you, I will recover all the money they stole. It is not political; I am not a politician, so I don’t care. So, they must bring back our money. You know how our roads are; you know how our hospitals are. Does Umuahia look like a state capital? So, what are we doing about it? I think the days of docility are over. We should rise up and say enough is enough,” he said. Otti said the forthcoming governorship election offers the people the opportunity to change the rot that is Abia State, assuring that his administration would do that. “We must do it; it is a task that must be done. And we have started the journey. Abia is on its way to the Promised Land and the journey has started. Today, we are sending a signal to them to say “enough is enough,” he said. He said has come to “save Abia people,” and promised not tamper with funds belonging to the state. “I have come for service and I am dedicating myself and my life to the service of Abia people,” Otti promised. He alleged that there was panic in the government circles because of his entry into the 2019 governor ship race “because they know they lost the last time, they know they will lose again.” According to him, what happened in 2015 would not repeat itself again, warning that any attempt to rig the polls would spell doom for the acrhitects of such evil plans. “People have spoken about what happened in 2015. Let me tell you clearly, 2015 can never happen again. Anybody who is preparing to rig elections, he may not be alive to see the result of the election,” he warned and urged Abians to vote for him and all APGA candidates at the polls.

sive Grand Alliance (APGA) chairman Onitsha North said they intend to use the fund generated from the Ire day to build perimeter fence, put glasses and modermise the Ire hall. Okpala Ire, Chief Prince Emmanuel Ikejiofor said that Ire day promotes peace and unity for Ire village, saying that he was happy for the revival of Ire day.

• Wife of the Kebbi State Governor, Dr. Zainab Shinkafi Bagudu with wife of the Vice President, Mrs Dolapo Osinbajo in attendance at the 2019 All Progressives Congress (APC) Women and Youth Presidential campaign and Rally in Owerri, Imo State

2019: Anambra South endorses Ukachukwu From Chuks Collins, Awka

s the race for the 2019 election preparations gather momentum, the Anambra South Senatorial Candidate on the platform of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) in the State, Prince Nicholas Ukachukwu (Ikukuoma), kicked off his Wards tour yesterday, with a courtesy visit to His Royal Majesty, Igwe (Dr) Kenneth O.N Orizu 111 of Nnewi. Receiving Prince Ukachukwu, and his entourage which included the APGA House of Representatives candidate for Nnewi North/South and Ekwusigo Federal ConstituencyChief Tony Iju Nwabunike, and Nnewi State Constituency 1 candidate- Nonso Smart Okafor and their supporters at his palace, the monarch described Ikukuoma as true born son of the senatorial zone in whom they were well pleased. He described him as a man of humility and respect, with love for the people’s welfare as exemplified by life enhancing projects he executed in the area. These, he listed as reassuring that he would do well for the people of the area at the Senate. He therefore urged the people of the area to give him maximum support at the polls. Igwe Orizu lamented the increasing apprehension about poll result manipulation during the election,

and urged citizens to go for the best representatives like Ukwchukwu, popularly called Ikukuoma who is suitable voice to speak for the people at the Red chamber of the National Assembly. He added that the people would enjoy the dividends of democracy if they elect a credible candidates who has their interest at heart, but cautioned against betraying their conscience for money. Ukachukwu in his remarks while addressing the palace noted his determination to deploy his experience to consolidate on progressive governance by governor Willie Obiano and make Anambra South rise back to its enviable position. According to him, “this is my first take off in the current phase of my campaign visitations. I deemed it wise to seek for your blessings and prayers as it is important for me and for us as a party to achieve our goal.” He disclosed that his decision was borne out of his desire to render genuine and quality representation and service to the people. He called on voters to be wary of those he called “one-chance” politicians who are yet to make meaningful impact in the lives of the constituents due to poor representation and quest for personal enrichment at the expense of the people who voted them into offices. Prince Nicholas Ukachukwu can-

vassed for support from the people promising massive infrastructure development, youth emancipation, women and youth empowerment, genuine representation, unhindered access, as well as regular constituency consultations and democracy dividends. He also visited HRH Obi Umudim Nnewi-Bennet Chukwuemeka Okafor, as well as the six communities in Ihiala comprising of Azia, Mbosi, Lilu , Orsumoghu, Isseke and Uburuisiuzor where they vouched total support for APGA, Ukachukwu and all other candidates of the party in the next month’s general election. Chief Nwabunike charged the people to support Ukachukwu, himself and all other APGA candidates massively for continuous flow and delivery of democracy dividends. He said he came out to advance the welfare and interest of the people and appeal for their trust and full support. The Chairman of APGA in Nnewi north opened the visitation speech by welcoming Prince Ukachukwu and other candidates, Tony Iju Nwabunike and Nonso Smart along with host of other stakeholders in Umudim and Nnewi North council area. The tour continues round the seven council areas of the senatorial zone.

irector of Research and Development, Alex Ekwueme Federal University, Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi, Prof. Dannis Akoh, says plans are underway to establish a Technology Acquisition and Transfer Centre in the institution. Akoh disclosed this on Tuesday in an interview with News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on the sidelines of the ongoing 2019 Technology and Innovation Expo in Enugu. He said that the centre would be established by the Federal Government to provide the needed encouragement in the advancement of research in the institution. He added that the Federal Government had seen the potential in researchers working in the institution, as well as the doggedness of the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Chinedum Nwajiuba. He disclosed that the university, within its seven years of existence, made remarkable breakthrough in science, technology and innovation. Akoh said that a delegation from the institution were at the expo to showcase such breakthroughs, stressing that “as a young university, we have not done badly. We have within this period, made some scientific breakthroughs, including the development of computer keyboards that accommodate indigenous languages. “We are the first institution to do so in Nigeria and this even earned us the third position in the 2018 Technology and Innovation Expo. The professor explained that some of the research products from the institution had already attracted the attention of the National Office for Technology Acquisition and Promotion (NOTAP). Akoh said that researchers from the institution were at the event to also search for investors that would be interested in the products. He commended the ingenuity and doggedness of researchers in the institution, saying they had done much in the face of little resources. “Our institution has a great future and with little partnership we shall go places. We appeal to the government to help us to attract investors so that some of our products and research findings can hit the market place,” he said.

The Oracle Today Wednesday January 23, 2019

NEWS Jubilation in Anambra South as 20 political parties endorse Ubah for senate From Larry Onwuta, Awka

here was jubilation in Anambra state when twenty (20) political parties in Anambra state endorsed and adopted Dr Patrick Ifeanyi Ubah of Young Progressive Party (YPP) for the Anambra state South senatorial seat at the frothing, 2019 general election. The parties adopted Ubah after signing Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), among themselves to support him in the 2019 general election. They said he was adopted after painstaking and due consideration of his person in terms of capacity, purposefulness, and they found out that he is more better , capable and people oriented person for the post. The parties said they agreed to adopt Dr.Ubah because he has shown that he has the interest of his people at heart and voting him into power will double his good will for his people who he had shown much love. At a press conference in Awka Anambra State capital Tuesday, the Chairman of Inter-Party Council (IPAC) of the state, Hon. Issac Onuka said the 20 twenty political parties decided to adopt Ubah as a their candidate after considering many factors such as capacity, competency and love for the people. “He has helped many people in the state in state and he has the capacity to give a better representation” he said. He added that Ubah is most capable and competent candidate for the senatorial seat because of his track records and youths empowerment initiatives in the state and the country. “Ifeanyi Ubah has touched many lives in all facets and he deserved to represent Anambra South at the Hallow chamber for purposeful representation. These 20 parties adopted him and will work and canvases for votes for him door to door so that comes March 16, 2019, he will emerge victorious “he said. According to him, the decision to adopt Dr. Ubah as their candidate was taken in good faith for the interest of the people of Anambra state and development . Among the parties that signed the MoU are Peoples Democratic Congress, People Progressive Party, Accord Party, KOWA party, Mass Movement of Nigeria, Freedom and Justice Party, National Interest Party and others.

• Dr. Ubah

Abia CP assures of level playing field for politicians From BONIFACE OKORO, Umuahia

bia State Police Commissioner, Chris Ezike, has assured that political gladiators and the electorate in the state would be given level playing ground this electioneering period. Receiving members of the executive of Abia State Council of the Nigeria Uhion of Journalists in his office at the Bende Road headquarters of the Abia Police Command, Ezike also said that operations of the Command would be anchored on community policing. He equally disclosed that the Command has set up a communication model for averting herders/farmers clashes in the state. Speaking on the forth coming general elections, the CP said that security agencies in the state were working

round the clock to ensure that the polls would be peaceful in the state. “We are working in concert with other security agencies to ensure that people are provided opportunities of level-playing field to be able to make their campaigns and, of course, that the voters are given adequate security to be able to exercise their franchise. “The command is working hard to ensure that we will have not only a hitch-free but violence-free election,” he said. He noted that with the Freedom of Information law in place, Policing was no longer a secret, adding that he would interact with journalists constantly for the society to be properly informed about Police operations. The Commissioner of Police urged journalists to boost community polic-

ing in the state by engaging in deep investigations that would expose criminal activities in the communities such as cultism, armed robbery, kidnapping, child stealing, child trafficking and rape, among other vices. “If we are all stakeholders in Project Nigeria, what we should be doing is to protect Mr. Nigeria from being vandalized by unscrupulous people. “And if you are giving information to prevent this vandalism, you are friend to the Nigerian society,” Ezike said. Ezike said having been briefed about destruction of crops by suspected itinerant herdsmen in the state, particularly, around Umuopara in Umuahia South local government area, he has set up a strategic meeting between the residents and the security.

He said that Divisional Police Officers have been directed to set up local, early warning information systems about herdsmen sighted around the community so that law enforcement officers would be part of the watch in order to prevent destruction of crops. Earlier, Chairman of Abia NUJ, Comrade John Emejor, had congratulated the CP on his posting to Abia and sought partnership of the Command with the union through regular interaction with journalists to keep them informed about Police operations in the state. Emejor enjoined the CP to fashion out ways of tackling herdsmen menace, saying farm crops worth of millions of naira have been destroyed by herdsmen and assured him of responsible journalism by members of his Council.

Ikpeazu lauds military for preserving national unity

• shows commissioner for women affairs (second left) Okafor (third left and Igwe Nick Obi of Nnobi (extreme right) when various items estimated at N5 million were distributed to over 2,000 widows and less privileged persons by a non-governmental organization, Ebuka Okafor Foundation (EOF), at the All Saints’ Anglican Church, Ifite-Ebenesi Nnobi in Idemili South Local Government Area of Anambra State

A/Ibom will pay N30,000 minimum wage – Gov. Emmanuel

From Ini Billie, Uyo

he Akwa Ibom State governor, Mr. Udom Emmanuel has said the government is capable of paying the new minimum wage. Speaking on Tuesday during consultation with the Nigeria Labour Congress, Trade Union Congress, United Labour and other affiliated unions, the governor said paying the minimum wage is not a problem for the state government. He noted that the state government is only waiting on the Federal government to decide on the new minimum wage so that it can implement in the state. He explained that labour is the bedrock of development in any nation and commended the unions for their support so far, adding that he has fulfilled his promises to the unions. He stated that even when allocations from the Federal government was still pending, he sourced for money to make sure salaries were paid. “Labour is the key to development. You cannot relegate labour to the background.

“Minimum wage has never been an issue, it is just that it has been a matter of legislation. We are waiting for directions from the Federal government, once the direction is given, we will pay. “In the face of circumstances and what we face in this country, I have done my best to make sure that workers do not suffer. I pay salaries in circumstances that I do not receive alloaction. You did not elect me to make excuses but to find solution to problems. “I have demonstrated capacity yesterday and can look into the future. I am here today because you people have strengthened me to be here and made it possible for me to be here, and we can talk and negotiate. I thank labour for the fantastic relationship between the labour and us. “The Peoples’ Democractic Party (PDP) has the best blueprint for workers in the country. We need your support in the usual manner to support us in the coming election. Today is the day for consultation. I want to thank God for the leadership of the labour and for this state. It is not in every state that labour

sits like this with the governor,” he said. Earlier, the Nigeria Labour Congress State Chairman, Comrade Etim Ukpong said labour is a very economicially and socially variable group, adding that he was happy the governor knows the labour has given him support. He said the workers are appreciative of what the governor and was he has done, and hope that he would fulfill all outstanding promises to them. “Over three and a half years, there had been no labour restiveness in Akwa Ibom State because you are working with people who can manage the situation. “Your coming gives us the satisfaction that we are working with somebody who understand the meaning of labour union. We welcome you here, you saw how the labour leaders welcomed you. “They appreciate you and what your government has spent during the period as governor, and as you are leaving this place, you will address what the people what to hear. Our workers want to see the consultation in action” he stated.

overnor Okezie Ikpeazu of Abia State has commended the Nigerian armed forces for their efforts and sacrifices in preserving national unity. Ikpeazu said this on Tuesday in Umuahia during the 2019 Armed Forces Remembrance Day Celebration. The governor, who was represented by his deputy, Mr Ude OkoChukwu, said it was pertinent for Nigerians to know that contributions of the armed forces were significant in promoting national development. “It is a period that Nigerians should recognise and celebrate the contributions members of the armed forces made. “They ensure security and territorial integrity of the country. Nigerian army are being killed, leave the comfort of their homes to make sure the citizenry are safe. “Kidnappers and armed robbers are increasing the burdens of the forces. We should assist in making their loads lighter by doing things according to rules,” he said. Ikpeazu said the state government would not relent in supporting the aqrmed forces and prayed that their efforts would not be in vain. Also speaking, Mr Ambrose Nnabugwu ,the state Chairman of Nigerian Legion said that members of the armed forces paid huge sacrifices in ensuring that Nigerians would be able to sleep with their eyes closed. Nnabugwu called on the political class to support activities that would uphold the existing peace in the country According to him, there is need for politicians to eschew anything that will disrupt the conduct of free and fair elections in Nigeria. Mr Stanley Kalu, a member of the Nigerian Legion appealed to the Federal Government to facilitate the implementation of programmes that would prioritise the welfare of families of fallen heroes. Kalu appealed to the federal government to engage members of the Nigerian Legion in services that would sustain them.

The Oracle Today Wednesday January 23, 2019

NEWS Extra Ibom deep seaport will commence operations in 2021 -- A’Ibom Govt.

Anambra resident doctors threaten industrial action

From Ini Billie, Uyo

he Akwa Ibom State government has said the Ibom deep seaport will begin operations in 2021. Chairperson, Technical Committee on Ibom Deep Seaport (IDSP), Mrs Mfon Usoro, said on Tuesday in Uyo that the procurement process for the operators of the seaport have been completed and that a consortium of Bollore` group plus Power China will run the operations of the seaport. She said the consortium is wellrenowned in the operations of ports and terminals and have experience in Africa, adding that the government has commenced operations with the consortium on the Public Private Partnership agreement. She mentioned that the committee on the Ibom Deep Sea Port, Ministry of Transport, Nigeria Ports Authority and the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC) have set up an aggressive timetable to produce a draft document required for the project to be approved by the Federal government. She stated that in six months’ time, all necessary agreements and documents for the commencement of the seaport will be finalised and sent to the Federal government for approval. Usoro explained that the project team is working hard to eliminate possible delays that would pose a challenge to the take-off of the project to beat competition from other countries. She mentioned that if the country does not take advantage of the traffic that the establishment of the seaport would attract to Nigeria by eliminating delays to the project, it may be lost to other countries in the region. She commended the state government for demonstrating commitment to make the project a reality, adding that it has so far invested huge funds into the project. “The Ibom deep seaport project has already come out of the pipeline to the extent that a preferred bidder has emerged from the procurement process that we started in 2017. “The preferred bidder is an international, well-renowned, experienced port and terminal operator, that is the Bollore` group plus Power China came together to form a consortium. We have covered the market because they have the experience in Africa and own a lot of ports. “The goal of our establishing a hub port is getting to reality; with the procurement having brought up a preferred bidder, it is hoped that in 2021, the port will be operational. Right now, we have commenced operations with the preferred bidder on the PPP agreement. “The major challenge that we face and anticipate is delay in the processes but happily we have a project team that understands that delay is not in the interest of our project because we have other competing deep sea port projects in the region. “If Nigeria delays, then the traffic will be taken by other deep seaports in the region like in Togo, Ghana, Cote d’ivoire and Cameroon. So the project team on the public authority aspect understands that the delay we anticipated should not happen. “That is why we have all agreed and adopted an aggressive, very optimistic timelines. Apart from that delay which imparts on the commercial indices of the business itself, we don’t anticipate any major, deal breaking obtsacle. “2021 is the date that we have agreed that the port goes operational and we are going to complete all the agreement in the next six months and obtain the Federal government approval,” she said.

From Larry Onwuta, Awka he Anambra state resident doctors, under the aegis of Association of Resident Doctors (ARD), has threatened to shut down services, following Governor Willie Obiano’s failure to fix the rot and degradation of personnel at the Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu Teaching Hospital (COOUTH), Amaku, Awka. The Resident doctors had on December, last year, after its general congress issued a 21-day ultimate to Chief Willie Obiano, to address all

challenges confronting the medical personnel in the state hospital. Their prayers include inter alia: appropriate placement of doctors in the remuneration platform as obtainable in other places and payment of 100 per cent revised CONMESS as contained in the Salary Review Committee report. Other prayers include adequate funding of COOUTH to enable provision of needed human and material resources for improved patient care and quality services befitting of a teaching hospital; well-structured academic programme for residency

and full implementation of the Residency Teaching act recently signed into law by Federal Government. The association in a communiqué signed by the ARD President, Dr. Obinna Aniagboso and his secretary, Dr. Chidiebele Egolum respectively, lamented the poor funding of the health institution and lack of implementation of the 2018 budgetary provision for COOUTH. They said the 21 days ultimatum elapsed few days ago, noted that government should not expect industrial harmony in the state, lamenting that they are the lowest

paid in the country. “The COOUTH doctors are the lowest paid in Nigeria and the entire West African region earning less than 40 per cent of the recommended CONMESS salary structure. “That in spite of the laudable efforts of the CMD to increase productivity and excellence, there remains widespread disenchantment and morale plummet amongst doctors. “That the current situation has endangered much instability in the workforce via continual efflux of experienced personnel leading to grossly inadequate medical personnel. “The current paltry pay of doctors cannot support residency training Programme (RTP) which requires periodic update courses. “It is our earnest hope that the state government graciously takes steps to address these demands in order to ensure the continued smooth running of the hospital; otherwise we may not guarantee industrial harmony,” he said.

Wike establishes N30m business grant for widows of legionnaires

• Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike (left) presiding over the swearing in of fifteen new Special Advisers into the Government of the State including Chairman of Rivers State Pension Board, Professor Ovunda Okene (r) as Deputy Governor, Ipalibo Gogo Banigo, watches, at the Executive Council Chambers of the Government House, Port Harcourt, Monday

‘This is the most corrupt federal government since 1960’ – Wike

ivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike stated that the present All Progressives Congress (APC)led Federal Government is the most corrupt administration since the nation gained independence. Speaking during a courtesy visit by the Board and Management of Independent Newspaper Limited on Monday at the Government House Port Harcourt, Governor Wike said the APC Federal Government lacks integrity and cares less about the well-being of Nigerians. He said this APC Federal Government is the worst administration this country has ever witnessed. “There is no integrity anywhere in the administration. They sold all our

valued assets and used the funds to sponsor the APC Presidential campaign, yet they claim that they have integrity”. Governor Wike commended the media for rising up in defense of the country and judiciary after the Federal Government moved to muzzle the Judiciary. He said that the media has a key role in checking the excesses of the present administration. “The press has a great role to play in the survival of the nation’s democracy. They are struggling to tarnish the image of the Judiciary, and this must be resisted”, he said. Governor Wike said with the sustained evil machinations of the APC

Federal Government, Nigerians should expect the worst. He said that the actions of the APC Federal Government are aimed at destabilizing the political system. Earlier the Managing Director of Independent Newspapers Limited Mr. Ade Ogidan announced the nomination of Governor Wike as the Newspaper’s Political Icon of the year 2018. He said the Newspaper arrived at the decision in view of the roles of Governor Wike in stabilizing the PDP as a strong opposition force . He also commended the Rivers State Governor for the pragmatism he has displayed since assuming the reins of governance.

State Contributory Health Commission, Dr. Isaac Akpoveta, “there are several health centres in different communities that have not been put to use, with this agreements, the private sector will take over the running of the centres, equip them to standards and ensure that they are operational 24 hours for our people who have enrolled in the contributory health insurance scheme. “ The Director-General of the DSCHC, Dr Ben Nkechika, stated that, innovation which led to the signing of the agreement was very important “to achieve the desired milestone.” He noted that, with the agreements, the private sector will have access to funds at a single digit interest loan from the Bank of Industry to fix and run the abandoned health centres. Dr Olamide Okulaja of Pharmac-

cess had said Access To Finance programme was very important to make funds available to the private sector that will partner the Delta State government in achieving quality and affordable healthcare for Deltans through the contributory health insurance scheme. Chairman of Association of Local Government Of Nigeria, Delta State, Hon. Itiako Ikpokpo commended Governor Okowa’s administration for its commitment to providing affordable health care for Deltans, disclosing that the governor had earlier approved for renovation, 107 health centres across the state. “We are direct beneficiaries of this project because, primary healthcare is the function of the local government,” he said, assuring that all the local government chairman will work for the programme to succeed.

Delta signs MoU to fix another 25 health centres From JONATHAN AWANYAI, Asaba

s part of measures to continue to ensure quality healthcare delivery through the contributory health insurance scheme, Delta State government on Monday signed a Memorandum of Understanding and an Renovate, Operate and Transfer agreement with a consortium of medical service providers under the aegis of Pharmaccess. Governor Okowa at the event which took place in Asaba, disclosed that the MoU and the ROT were necessary as it will check rural/urban drift by people seeking for medical care, noting that with the agreements, medical facilities of international standards would be available at different rural localities of the State. According to the governor who spoke through the Chairman, Delta

ivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, Tuesday announced a N30million business grant for the widows and wives of fallen heroes and war veterans of the Nigerian Legion in the state. Speaking at a ceremony to mark the 2019 Armed Forces Remembrance Day in Port Harcourt, the governor noted that the grant would help the women expand their businesses and cater for their families. He also announced a donation of N20million to the Rivers State Branch of the Nigerian Legion, adding that the two donations would be effective after the legion made peace among themselves. “When you settle your differences, N30million business grant for the widows and wives of the fallen heroes and war veterans will be released, there will be a donation of N20million for the Legion, in all, we are donating N50million to the Legion, ” he said. The governor stressed that the State Government had redeemed its pledge of N100million to the Legion. “We have since redeemed our pledge to support the State Veterans Trust Fund with the sum of N100 million, to cater for the socioeconomic needs of members of the State Chapter of the Nigerian Legion,’” the governor said. Wike stated that the State Government had also delivered a 32-seater coaster bus to them, to ease the transportation challenges facing them. He noted that the state government had to honour the legacy of both the past and present members of the nation’s armed forces, who had either served or still serving for their contributions to the course of peace and national cohesion. The governor stressed that Nigeria deserved a total defeat of Boko Haram instead of technical defeat. “The Federal Government, therefore, needs to do something more pragmatic to boost the morale of our troupes, reverse the embarrassing setbacks and defeat Boko Haram,’’ he added. The representative of the Nigerian Legion, Borah Thompson, commended Gov. Wike, for his commitment towards the welfare of fallen heroes and war veterans.

BU$IN£SS The Oracle Today Wednesday January 23 2019

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•e-Platform

Paradox of growth and debt rule the economy By SOPURUCHI ONWUKA

XTERNAL window on Nigeria’s economic performance in the past year and predictions for the new year warn of inconsistencies in the key templates that rule calculations in the fiscal projections expected to translate into tangible benefits for homes and businesses in the country. Country analyses by global economic institutions, using data released by the government agencies still arrive at different conclusions on Nigeria’s economic direction from our economic planners. Whereas the Ministry of Budget and National Planning justifies the nation’s burgeoning debt profile as necessary route out of economic doldrums, experts beyond the influence of government stridently warn that the nation’s worsening fiscal deficits host grave implications. According to a report by the Oxford Business Group, Nigeria has continued its economic recovery in 2018 on the back of an increase in oil revenue; however, fluctuating energy prices, increasing debt and an election in early 2019 could pose challenges moving forward. According to data from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Nigeria’s growth has been driven primarily by the energy sector, with oil revenues increasing by 37.2 percent year-on-year between January and October. The bank cited increased output and higher oil prices, which rose from early 2018 rates of around $65 per barrel to highs of $85 per barrel in October, as factors behind the rise in revenue. However, analysts warn that the late-year drop in oil prices to just over $60 per barrel could impact year-end GDP growth, as well as the economic performance in the coming year. Despite the drop in prices, in mid November the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) announced plans to boost crude output from October levels of 1.6m barrels per day (bpd) to 1.8m bpd in 2019. The country is also looking to lift condensate production by 25 percent in 2019, increasing output from 400,000 bpd to 500,000 bpd, with the gains to come throughimproving efficiencies in infrastructure and bringing new reserves on-line. With Egina coming online in De-

•Courtesy: Delloite cember with 200, 000 barrels per day in nameplate capacity, significant improvement may have been recorded in crude oil production capacity. But Egina is operated under production sharing contract, an arrangement that limits equity production for government until the operator recovers full $16 billion development cost. Thus, the new production from all Nigerian deepwater oilfields which might come online in the immediate-to-short terms might not translate to significant revenue offside that would assist government exit debt obligations in the medium term. Again, whereas NNPC scurries to capture more revenue for government in the low price market by boosting production numbers, it ignores its limited capacity to cause any significant upside in production. Total operated production by NNPC is in the range of 150, 000 barrels per day or less than 10 percent of the nation’s total physical output. The rest come from the operations of private investors in the industry who protest fiscal changes in existing agreement by withholding investments that would drive production growth. Since 2017 when the economy technically emerged from reces-

CBN Exchange Rates JANUARY 15, 2019 Currency

Buying(NGN)

Central (NGN) Selling(NGN)

US DOLLAR 305.85 POUNDS STERLING 393.476 EURO 350.7182 SWISS FRANC 311.5197 YEN 2.8301 CFA 0.5188 WAUA 426.881 YUAN/RENMINBI 45.191 RIYAL 81.5317 S/AFR RAND 22.0191

306.35 394.1193 351.2915 312.0289 2.8347 0.5288 427.5788 45.2654 81.665 22.0551

306.85 394.7625 351.8649 312.5382 2.8394 0.5388 428.2767 45.3397 81.7983 22.0911

sion, Nigeria has run of annual fiscal deficits with each budget coming with staggering income gaps that must be filled with costly borrowing. The World Bank warns that Nigeria’s fiscal deficits are more than likely to widen and pose some economic hurdles for Nigeria in 2019. The bank estimated that public debt levels were likely to rise to around 25 percent of GDP as state spending is expected to increase ahead of the February 16 presidential election, while revenue flows are expected to experience only limited growth. Minister of Budget and National Planning, Senator Udo Udoma, had in commenting on the huge debt provisions in the 2019 fiscal proposals stated that the government’s borrowings are still low on the scale of regional average, but World Bank maintains that the nation’s fiscal shortfalls are still a considerable increase on the 15.5 percent rate recorded at the beginning of 2018. The report also said Nigeria’s capital account could face significant uncertainty, as external portfolio investors may look elsewhere during the upcoming elections, despite rising domestic security rates. A tight monetary policy helped control inflation throughout 2018,

which dropped from year-opening levels of 15.1 percent to two-year lows of 11.1 percent in July, before edging up to 11.3 percent in October on the back of higher food costs as inflation take toll on Naira value. Despite a moderate fluctuation in inflation, the CBN held its benchmark rate at 14 percent throughout the year, the same rate since mid2016. The bank’s report indicates incremental borrowing and worsening debt accumulation, a trend other global financial institutions deplore. The IMF has forecast the GDP to grow 1.9 percent in 2018, with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) predicting a slightly lower rate of expansion of 1.75 percent. Although up on 2017’s growth of 0.8 percent, which followed a recession in 2016, the rate of expansion is still below the fund’s prediction of 2.8 percent for sub-Saharan Africa, with fluctuating energy prices late in the year, disruptions to agricultural production due to flooding and social unrest taking some of the wind out of Nigeria’s economic recovery. The government’s annual budgets since 2016 which Senator Udoma says is based on the government’s Economic Recovery and Growth Plan (ERGP) has been weighed down by debt liabilities that they appear to any significant relief to the business environment. The World Bank’s “Doing Business 2018” report, released in October, found that credit availability for the private sector remained tight, with banks exercising a high level of risk aversion. Credit growth remained flat in the first six months of the year, only picking up marginally in the second half of the year, expanding by 1.9 percent to October, the CBN reported in November. This was well below the 7.4 percent growth in lending to the public sector, the bank said, indicating that lenders continued to prefer to fund state borrowings compared to the private sector. With business in the economy deprived of access the capital, and government also mopping funds from the local money market through internal borrowing, treasury bills and sundry borrowing instruments that hold stronger allure to the money market than loans to enterprises, it is no surprise that unemployment, hunger and crime are on the risen as the private sector shrinks and sheds capacity to create jobs.

•Tourism

Energy

NLNG to contribute 8 mtpa to global 60 mpta growth P20 e-Platform

9mobile: Wood exits Teleology consortium amid Presidency takeover reports P22 Travel

Tourism drives Lagos economy with over N50bn cash transactions in Dec P26

Insurance

Less than 3m Nigerians have no insurance cover – CIIN

P28 Equity & Capital Market

Meristem Securities attain GIPS compliant status P30 Money Market

AfDB support Nigeria’s membership in African Trade Insurance with $14.12m P31

Stock Market Highlights As At 15TH JANUARY, 2019

Summary

ASI DEALS VOLUME VALUE EQUITY CAP BOND CAP ETF CAP

30,036.15 4,508.00 216,248,805.00 N2,669,490,424.07 N11,200,751,208,779.20 N10,152,509,471,809.20 N6,096,908,130.37

5 Top Gainers

Symbols Last Close CCNN N20 STANBIC N46.15 CILEASING N8.29 DANGSUGAR N14 OANDO N4.3 N4.55

5 Top Losers

S/N Coy (By Volume) Value(N) TOTAL DIAMONDBNK 100,673,834 N209,014,011.79 GUARANTY 39,406,602 N1,318,898,123.90 AIRSERVICE UBA 26,153,610 N191,326,861.90 GUINNESS FBNH 23,361,699 N171,864,522.90 UPL ZENITHBANK 21,131,980 N462,994,422.45 NEIMETH

N200.2 N7.9 N65 N2 N0.7

Current Change N22 2 N47.5 1.35 N9.04 0.75 N14.55 0.55 0.25

%Change 10.00% 2.93% 9.05% 3.93% 5.81%

N195 N7.15 N64.75 N1.9 N0.64

-2.60% -9.49% -0.38% -5.00% -8.57%

-5.2 -0.75 -0.25 -0.1 -0.06

The Oracle Today Wednesday January 23, 2019

BUSINESS

Moody’s predicts slow growth of 2.3% for Nigeria in 2019 By KAYODE OGUNWALE

ATING agency, Moody’s Investors Service has predicted that Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) will grow by 2.3 percent in 2019, slightly higher than an estimated 1.9 percent in 2018. The agency in its outlook for SubSaharan Africa (SSA) said, Nigeria will recover slowly but growth will remain well below levels seen in the first half of the decade. The outlook shows that, the region’s two largest economies - Nigeria and South Africa will recover slowly but growth in these two countries will remain well below levels seen in the first half of the decade. In Nigeria, Moody’s projects that real GDP growth will reach 2.3 percent in 2019 from an estimated 1.9 percent in 2018. In South Africa, growth will reach 1.3 percent in 2019 from an estimated 0.5 percent in 2018. According to Moody’s, “Sub-Saharan African sovereigns’ negative outlook for 2019 reflects credit challenges that stem from fiscal and external vulnerabilities amid tightening global liquidity conditions and rising global trade tensions, despite gradually improving growth prospects.” Going into 2019, 15 of the 21 sovereigns that Moody’s rates in the SubSaharan Africa region have a stable outlook, while six hold a negative outlook. Assistant Vice President of Moody’s who is an analyst and author of the report, Daniela Re Fraschini said, the negative outlook for sovereigns in Sub-Saharan Africa is driven by persistent credit challenges related to their ongoing fiscal and external vulnerabilities. “We expect credit pressures to ease relative to previous years, de-

spite a more challenging external environment, as credit profiles display some resilience at their lower rating levels”, Moody’s stated. Moody’s expects SSA’s gradual economic recovery of 2018 to continue this year, with regional real GDP growth accelerating to 3.5 percent in 2019 from an estimated 2.8 percent in 2018. Most governments across the region plan further fiscal consolidation this year, although progress remains gradual amid still soft growth conditions in some cases. The presence of IMF programs throughout the region supports the fiscal outlook and reform impetus for 2019. With few exceptions, Moody’s expects government debt ratios to deteriorate only marginally or stabilize in 2019, reflecting ongoing fiscal consolidation and the positive impact of higher growth rates on the denominator of debt-to-GDP. That said, debt trajectories for a number of sovereigns remain vulnerable to lower than expected growth, exchange rate depreciations and contingent liability risk from weak state owned enterprises. Debt affordability will continue to weaken in a number of countries, it stated. The agency further that, exposures to tightening global financing conditions vary across the region. “Sovereigns with large current account deficits, high external debt repayments and large shares of foreign-currency debt are likely to continue to experience external pressures.” Political risk remains a key credit constraint for several SSA sovereigns. The sources of political risk ranging from domestic civil unrest, conflicts, succession risk, or simply from policy unpredictability and their credit implications vary across the region.

•(From left): Executive Director, Technical, Wapic Insurance Plc, Peter Ehime; Managing Director (Designate) Wapic Life Assurance Limited, Ayodeji Bankole-Olusina; Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Mrs Yinka Adekoya; Executive Director, Bode Ojeniyi and Head, Internal Audit, Sunny Ogbemudia at the launch of the company’s ombudsman desk for the purpose of resolving service issues between the company and its customers, Friday.

NECA raises alarm over Nigeria’s debt profile

By KAYODE OGUNWALE

fied by sector and geography. Qualified investors can therefore expect high level of contractual income combined with significant minority equity stakes, superior risk adjusted returns, strong equity upside, and capital preservation.”

public debt stock, comprising external and domestic debts of the FGN, the 36 states and the FCT hitting $73.208 billion (N22.38 trillion) recorded in June 2018. “This trend, which is very disturbing, could have a negative effect on the developmental capacity of Nigeria, despite government’s financial managers’ argument that the rate of increase is within a manageable limit. ‘’Financial experts at the International Monetary Fund, IMF, and the World Bank have, in fact, advised that the revenue-to-debt ratio is unsustainable and it portends a serious danger for the future generation. “While the effect of the increasing debt may not be immediate in totality, it could be catastrophic in the long term with a chunk of revenue consumed by debt servicing to the detriment of infrastructural development. ‘’This, sadly, is the current reality as N2.140 trillion from the N8.8 trillion proposed 2019 budget, has been earmarked for debt servicing, representing about 25 per cent of the total budget allocation.” On the impact of government’s

excessive borrowing in the domestic market, Olawale said: “The size of government borrowing in the domestic financial market also continues to be a major source of concern as this has in no small measure, affected the chances of the real sector to access funding at a reasonable cost.” Speaking on how government can find its way out of the debt predicament, the NECA DG said: “The federal and state governments, as a matter of urgency, must take deliberate steps aimed at cutting the cost of governance and recurrent expenditure. “Government also needs to start paying serious attention to workable investment schemes, collaborating strongly with the private sector, which is the engine room for economic growth. “Government has to recognize the important role of the private sector in building a robust economy, as oil revenue alone is not enough to place the country on the path of sustainable development. Government must, therefore, make commitment to facilitate a favourable environment with policies that will attract private investors.”

persons, especially the need for attitudinal change on the part of operatives and stakeholders. “Today in the service, there is an increasing disposition to place national interest above self,” he said. Attah noted that the establishment of the Customs Police Unit with the responsibility to check acts of indiscipline and other vices was fast turning customs into a national example for service delivery. He said that suppression of smuggling remained the most challenging aspect of Customs’ functions as anti-smuggling operations were seen differently by many people who still regarded smuggling as a business not crime. “The challenges being faced by the Service in addressing smuggling are porous borders, non-cooperative attitude of some border dwellers and lack of proper implementation of the ECOWAS protocol on transit by people from neighboring countries. “Others are use of motorcycles and animals to smuggle items through

difficult terrains,” he said. According to him, the activities of smugglers to some extent have been put on check in the last three years since assumption of office by Col. Hameed Ali (Rtd) especially with the unprecedented seizures made so far. In a related development, the Nigeria Customs Service, Seme Command, says it intercepted 29 vehicles and goods worth about N1.1 billion in December, 2018. The Customs Area Controller, Seme Command, Mohammed Garba, made this known on Tuesday, while briefing journalists on the activities of the command at the ECOWAS Joint Border Post in Seme. According to him, the items seized were 29 vehicles with duty paid value of N177 million and 6,753 bags of 50kg foreign rice, equivalent to 11 trailer trucks worth N157 million. “Other items include vegetable oil worth N573,750; sugar worth N567,000 and 71 kegs of petroleum worth N106, 500. It also include tin tomatoes worth N127,575; used

shoes worth N67, 500 and 91 parcels of hard drugs. “The suspect of the hard drug, Kenneth Cornelius, has been prosecuted successfully and now serving jail term of two years,’’ Garba said. He said that the command generated the sum of N623 million, representing 92 per cent of the target for December. This, he said, was as a result of the unwavering resolve of the officers of the command in various operations. “This focussed on maximising revenue collection, suppression of smuggling and facilitation of legitimate trade in the final month of the year. “Similarly, the intensified operation of the enforcement unit has drastically reduced smuggling activities to the barest minimum,’’ Garba said. The controller said that with the inauguration and subsequent movement of the command to the Joint Border Post (JBP) of Seme-Krake, the operations of the command would be further enhanced through cooperation, collaboration and regional integration.

IGERIA Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA) has raised an alarm over the rising debt profile of the country, describing the position as worrisome. The Director General of NECA, Mr. Timothy Olawale, made the position of NECA known in Lagos on Monday when reacting to the release of third quarter report of the Debt Management Office (DMO) and 2019 budget assumptions. Olawale said: “Figures released by DMO showed that the Federal Government’s domestic debt profile rose to N15.814 trillion in September 2018 from N15.629 trillion in June 2018 (1.19 per cent increase). ‘’This figure becomes more worrisome when we look at the total

Syntaxis, Afrinvest launch N12bn to address SMEs funding By VICTOR NZE

YNTAXIS Capital Africa has launched a N12-billion private equity fund in partnership with Afrinvest Asset Management Limited, to meet the funding needs of Small and Medium Scale Enterprises (SMEs) in sub-Saharan Africa. The fund launched in Abuja, at the weekend, is expected to cover a variety of sectors including, manufacturing, agri-processing, healthcare, education, and financial services. While small and medium term enterprises (SMEs) play a vital role in the development of economies, access to funding remains a critical challenge on the performance of the sector. Speaking at the event, the Group Managing Director, Afrinvest, Ike Chioke, said the focus of the fund is deepen and widen financial inclusion for SMEs by providing patient capital. The fund provides a viable option for SMEs who are looking for growth. Partner and Managing Director, Syntaxis Capital, Adesuwa Okunbo, while speaking on the benefits of the fund, said: “We see the fund as a vehicle for rapid economic growth and development. By providing access to capital to SMEs, we are giving businesses the power to scale their activities, which will in turn increase productivity, create new jobs, and generate taxes for the government. “In addition, the fund has a unique focus on supporting women-owned or managed businesses in order to improve the ratio of women in the

workforce and enhance the standard of living across board.” Speaking on the benefits of the fund, Managing Director, Afrinvest Asset Management, Ola Belgore, said: “the fund has been constructed as a portfolio of cash-generative African private equity investments diversi-

Nigeria Customs generates N3.1trn in 3 yrs

IGERIA Customs Service (NCS) said it generated about N3.1 trillion revenue for the country in the last three years. The Public Relations Officer of NCS, Deputy Comptroller, Joseph Attah said in Abuja, Tuesday that the revenue was generated between 2016 and 2018. Attah explained that the service realised N898.8 billion revenue in 2016, N1.037 trillion in 2017 and the sum of N1.2 trillion was generated in 2018. He said that within the period under review, about 16,049 seizures of various commodities were made by NCS commands across the country. Giving a breakdown, the spokesperson said 5,925 items were seized in 2016, 4,889 impounded in 2017 and 5,235 in 2018. “The implementation of the presidential mandate to restructure, reform, and raise revenue by the present management of NSC has greatly repositioned the service for better. “What is challenging but being gradually achieved is the reform of

The Oracle Today Wednesday January 23, 2019

BUSINESS

Merger: CBN, SEC grant approval in principle to Access, Diamond Banks

CCESS Bank and Diamond Bank Plc have obtained approval in principle from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) on proposed merger plans. Access Bank Executive Director, Personal Banking, Mr Victor Etuokwu, said in Lagos that CBN and SEC had granted both banks approval in principle for the merger process. Etuokwu said that the banks were awaiting the final approval which would be granted after convening shareholders meeting. “So far, we have gotten approvals up to approval in principle. There are three approvals that we need for this process. The first one is the pre-order approval which is like the first approval, the next approval is the approval in principle. “The final approval comes after approval in principle and it will come after you have convened your shareholders meetings,’’ Etuokwu said. He said that the banks would convene shareholders meetings in February, noting that the approval would be taken to court once approved by the shareholders. Etuokwu said all the processes including final approval would be completed in the next 60 days. He said that the new bank would remain committed to retail and corporate banking to drive financial inclusion for desired growth and development. “We need to invest in retail market to drive economic growth, this is what the new bank will do, a strong corporate and a strong retail bank,’’ he said.

On staff retrenchment, Etuokwu said that members of staff would be retrained for different roles in case of overlapping. “Staff will be retrained for new roles where there are overlaps, one of the branches can be converted to an e-branch or Automated Teller Machine (ATM) gallery,’’ he added. Mr Robert Giles, in charge of Retail, Diamond Bank said that integration of both banks had commenced for seamless service delivery. Giles said that ATMs of both banks could be used by customers at no cost, noting that they were committed at taking costs away from customers. Mr Herbert Wigwe, Access Chief Executive Officer, at a joint news conference recently said it had already finalised terms and obtained regulatory approvals for a Tier II capital issuance to raise 250 million dollars available for draw down in January 2019. He said that the bank had also obtained “No Objection’’ from the CBN to undertake a Rights Issue to raise up to N75 billion or 207 million dollars in the first half of 2019. Wigwe said that shareholder approvals and other regulatory approvals to that effect would be obtained before the offer opens. He noted that the fund raising exercise would accelerate the capital management plan to support retail growth previously set out in the bank’s five-year strategy. Wigwe said that the bigger entity was ready to absorb the staff of Diamond Bank at the completion of the deal by end of Jun, without any disengagement.

•(From left): President, CBMI, Tong Laigou and Chairman of both BUA Group and CCNN, Abdul Samad Rabiu, shake hands after the signing ceremony for the construction of a new 3million MTPA BUA Kalambaina (CCNN) Cement II Plant by Sinoma CBMI in Kalambaina in Sokoto.

New airports’ terminals cost effective – FAAN

ANAGING Director, Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mr Saleh Dunoma says the four new international terminals in Abuja, Lagos, Kano and Port Harcourt airports are cost effective. Dunoma told newsmen in Abuja on Tuesday, that while the four terminals were built with 600 million dollars, Kotoka International Air-

Stanbic IBTC offers payment solutions to students, others

TANBIC IBTC Holdings Plc, has reassured parents and guardians of the bank’s readiness to help minimise the financial burden of paying their children/wards fees as well as maximise a stress free payment process through its e-solution offering as schools reopen for another session across Nigeria. According to the bank, there is a bouquet of educational payment solutions, which includes Short Term Loans that are quick and easy to get, Salary Advance (SALAD) for salaried workers as well as its credit cards that parents can take advantage of at minimal cost. Others are its international money transfer solutions for payment of school fees and allowances abroad and the digital payment options. It added that its prepaid cards are available to load pocket money for children/wards, while the credit cards, which currently offer a 55-day interest moratorium, can be used to seamlessly pay school fees. The school fees payment solutions according to the bank, underlines the importance it attaches to education. Executive Director, Personal and Business Banking, Stanbic IBTC Bank Plc, Wole Adeniyi, said a prosperous future for the family and the nation is hinged on the educational development of children, and that the bank is keen to offer the needed support to parents/guardians to ensure they bequeath their children this important legacy. “Stanbic IBTC appreciates the fundamental role education can and do play in transforming a so-

ciety, which is why we have developed these products tailored to the needs of our customers to help them provide quality education for their children/wards,” Adeniyi said. “Stanbic IBTC will continue to develop products and services to support the attainment of quality education. The array of personal loan products is a fast, simple and convenient way by which customers can meet their short-term financial obligations to educate their children. And the repayment terms are very convenient,” he added. Other benefits of the school fees loans, according to Adeniyi, include low interest rates, access to a revolving line of credit, flexible repayment terms, and the opportunity to access credit up to 100 per cent of the customer’s income. With schools resuming for a new term, the school fees loans will help to alleviate the financial burden parents and guardians may face in paying

school fees. To access the loan solutions from the bank, Adeniyi said the beneficiary only needs to be a salary account holder with Stanbic IBTC Bank or a customer who has investments with any of the group subsidiaries and then he/she can walk into any branch of the bank and apply for any of the smart loans in a few easy steps. The application is then processed and the customer is contacted with feedback. For customers with children/ wards studying overseas, he disclosed that the bank is ready to assist them access the needed foreign exchange, which it offers at very competitive rates, in making school fees payment seamless and painless. “Stanbic IBTC Bank will continue to leverage the expertise of the Stanbic IBTC Group to provide services and develop products that address the specific needs of our customers,” Adeniyi said.

port Terminal 3 alone in Ghana, was built at 275 million dollars. He explained that the four projects were being funded through 500 million dollars loan from the Export-Import Bank of China (China EximBank) with counterpart funding of 100 million dollars from the Nigerian government. According to him, the newly built Kotoka International Airport terminal 3 with a handling capacity of 5 million passengers annually, is still lower in capacity to the Port Harcourt terminal which will handle 7million annually. “When the Kotoka Airport terminal was commissioned in September 2018, a lot of ill-informed Nigerians went on social media to lambast their father land. “At the cost of 600 million dollars joint funding for the four terminals in Nigeria, it is comparatively more cost-effective than the single terminal in Accra at a cost of 275 million dollars,” he said. Dunoma said that with the commencement of operations by ASKY Airlines from the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja; and Lufthansa set to commence from Port Harcourt International Airport, two of the four terminals were being utilised. He said with the facilities on ground at both the Port Harcourt and Abuja airports, more airlines were expected to indicate interest in flying to those airports.

The FAAN boss said with the commissioning of two of the four terminals, new employment opportunities had been created for deserving Nigerians. On speculations that the new terminals would be run by the Chinese, Dunoma explained that the China Eximbank only gave Nigeria a repayable loan to build the facilities. He said: “Arrangements were made in the agreement we signed that as soon as the buildings start operations, they will give us a gestation period, and then we will start paying back the loan.’’ He further explained that as was the usual practice, the engineers and technicians of the Chinese firm, China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation that did the job, would be around throughout the Defect Liability Period of one year. “They will help us train our engineers and maintain the facility for one year until the defect liability period is over and our people get used to these facilities as quickly as possible. “We have started the training even before the commissioning of the building, but this is a purely technical area. “Their engineers and technicians will remain with our technicians and engineers over this defect liability period so that they will hands off after that.

FIIRO unveils solar boiler, mobile garri processor

EDERAL Institute of Industrial Research, Oshodi (FIIRO) has unveiled its newly fabricated solar boiler and garri processor to enhance food and agro-allied processing activities in the country. The information is in a statement by the institute’s Director-General, Prof. Gloria Elemo on Tuesday in Lagos. Elemo stated that the solar powered boiler was fabricated to solve the issue of irregular power supply which hindered production in the industry. She noted that the steam boiler

could be used in major industrial sectors such as food and beverages, pulp and paper products, textile and chemical industries. She added that “more than 90 per cent of materials used in fabricating the boiler are sourced locally, and this means a lot of savings for the country in terms of foreign exchange. “The garri processor is equipped with modern technology and an inbuilt computer which can be programmed in any Nigerian language so that the illiterate farmer in any

part of the country can operate it.” The FIIRO boss who emphasised the need for steam and heat in manufacturing processes, listed some FIIRO-developed equipment that use steam to include the drum dryer, pasteuriser, parboiler, palm oil refining plant and the ginger oleo-resin. Others are; essential oil distillation plant, fruit juice/paste concentrate ethanol processing plant, pulp and paper digester, blanching and sterilisation. She stated that the mobile garri processing unit was to solve the problem of small-scale processors,

as it helps to ease their work and save man hour. She noted that the processor would also enhance efficiency, as well as reduce the cost of processing garri, while its mobile nature would make it possible to service more people at their convenience. Elemo said that the institute would continue to develop more technologies that would impact on the activities of major stakeholders, the Small, Medium and Large scale enterprises to spur economic growth.

The Oracle Today Wednesday December 23, 2019

ENERGY

NLNG to contribute 8 mtpa to global 60 mpta growth

By SOPURUCHI ONWUKA

HE highly anticipated investment decision by partners in the Nigerian Liquefied Natural Gas to develop the seventh process train to boost capacity to 30 million tons per annum (mtpa) leads Africa’s contribution to the global capacity boost in the year. According to reports by both Energy Information and Administration (EIA) and private consultancy group, Wood Mackenzie, new investment decision by project promoters across the globe will collectively add 60 mpta to the global LNG supply and possibly upset the traditional supply pattern. While both EIA and Woodmac agree that gas would lead consumption growth ahead of other energy options, there was to striking agreement on possibility on supply glut and shifts in demand pattern especially in Asia. However, a survey of analyses by The Oracle Today showed that global market for liquefied natural gas will be robust in the year following upsets in traditional supply routes as new production capacity continues to spring up from all continents of the world. The new supply sources are expected from new project sanctions billed to fall into place in 2019, and the seventh train of the NLNG features in the front row of capacity additions coming from Africa to complete a balance of production across continents. The final investment decision for the NLNG-7 was expected in the last quarter of 2018 after partners including Shell, Total, Eni and NNPC took bold steps to exit legacy debts, launch FEED contracts and signaled the global money market of intentions for project loans. When the project which already has initial site preparations come is fully realized it would increase the processing capacity of the company by 8.0 mtpa from the current 22 mtpa to 30 mtpa. Thus the Nigerian liquefaction project which was not clearly captured in the project profile table drawn by Woodmac will account for 13.3 percent of the total global capacity growth to be activated in 2019. According to industry advisory consultants, Wood Mackenzie, the

global LNG market is rebalancing, but 2019 will be “a record year” in terms of LNG project sanctions. The company noted that more than 60 million metric tonnes per annum (mmtpa) of new capacity will likely hit the final investment decision (FID) stage, setting a record above the 45 mmtpa sanctioned in 2005 and a tripling of the 21 mmtpa sanctioned in 2018. Frontrunners in the race to hit FID include the Nigeria LNG Train-7 project, the US$27 billion Arctic LNG-2 in Russia, a floating liquefaction vessel in Mozambique and three in three new chillers in the U.S. Already in focus in the US are Golden Pass, Calcasieu Pass and Sabine Pass Train 6. Woodmac also counted that the small Woodfibre project in the Canadian province of British Columbia may be sanctioned this year as well. Research Director at Wood Mackenzie, Giles Farrer, stated that “Other projects in the U.S., Qatar, Papua New Guinea, Australia and Nigeria are targeting FID in 2019, too, providing upside to our already bullish view.” Major determinant for market direction would be the strength of the global economy, the company said. The global economy has been growing for the past eight years, but economic prognosticators anticipate a downturn, noted Farrer. It “is simply a matter of when and how deep,” he said. Farrer pointed out that a recession would curb demand for gas and LNG, lower oil prices, delay FIDs and “push the global LNG market back a few years.” However, he cautioned that an even less desirable scenario could materialize for the gas market: a “major economic downturn” in 2020 or 2021, right after anywhere from 60 to 100 mmtpa of LNG capacity has taken FID. “That would wipe out our forecast price recovery post-2020 and make our forecast that prices soften a little around 2025 look a lot worse,” said Farrer. On the consumption side, the company stated that the LNG market in 2019 will feature a return of “big LNG buyers” and “a record year for supply” based on growth in production and capital spending decisions for new projects. Research Director Giles Farrer,

stated in prediction for 2019 that supply influx in the LNG market would outpace the rate of import by Asia while Europe would need additional supplies in the year. Still, assuming normal weather patterns, Wood Mackenzie anticipates that LNG prices will be down for 2019 compared to the previous year. On a title transfer facility (TTF) basis, the consultancy forecasts an average price of US$6.90 per million British thermal units (MMBtu) for 2019 compared to US$8 per MMBtu in 2018. In addition, it projects an average Asian spot price of US$8.50 per MMBtu (versus US$10.30 per MMBtu). “But weather is something we will watch closely in Q1 2019,” cautioned Farrer. “mild end to winter could send more LNG into Europe and drive prices down further.” On the positive outlook for gas, he said growth in gas demand has

received some “headroom” stemming from coal-to-gas switching in China and recent coal power retrials in Europe. He also cited further evidences of a backlash against coal to include higher taxes on fired plants, and possible increased scrutiny by the Japanese government on 8 gigawatts (GW) of coal-fired power under construction and 8 GW at the planning stage, thanks to tougher lending criteria for new coal projects by the country’s financial institutions. He also cited possible the closure of old coal-fired plants in efforts to reduce airborne particulate matter concentrations in India by 20 to 30 percent over the next five years; coal phase-out in Germany that could start as soon as 2022; explaining that “the scale of what is at stake in those decisions could well exceed our assumptions.” “Thanks to an economic slow-

down, a “more considered” coal-togas switching approach and more widespread availability of domestic LNG infrastructure, LNG demand growth in China will decrease from the 40 to 45-percent growth rate in the past two years, Farrer said. He added, however, that China would still boost LNG demand growth at approximately 20 percent – “by far the largest source of LNG demand growth in the global market.” Farrer also pointed out that a series of new gas policies that China implemented in 2018 aim to relieve supply tightness and import dependency. “In 2019 there will be more clarity on the level of ambition of Chinese domestic supply growth and the ramp-up of Power of Siberia,” Farrer said, referring to the Gazprom pipeline project that will link gas supplies from Russia’s Far East to China.

NNPC to launch crude sales automation

•End cooking gas export

IGERIAN National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) has declared self imposed target of completing and activating automation platform for transactions in the trade of Nigerian crude oil grades. The corporation also stated that it would end the export of Nigeria’s equity butane and propane in preference to internal processing into liquefied petroleum gas in order to boost in-country supplies. Group General Manager in charge of Public Affairs, Mr. Ndu Ughamadu, stated that processes are being triggered to achieve 100 percent, end-to-end automation of all marketing and sale of Nigerian crude oil grades. The Oracle Today reports that the Nigerian crude oil sales governance structure though strong on revenue flow controls and contract term agreements still form the platform for backstage deals that feed scammers, illegal cabals and black market operations. Allegations are rife about third parties that regularly take turns at terminals with proxy notes. More allegations pour in about phantom companies that also merely secure

crude lifting term contract with political support only to trade the opportunity with real traders who lost in the bids for cash. Sources at the nation’s several export terminals in the coastal and offshore Niger Delta hint that leakages in the current crude trade arrangements exist in three major forms: overlifting by authorized offtakers; proxy lifting by licensed traders without term contracts with NNPC; and lifting of volumes not originally scheduled in term contracts. Again, the process of obtaining lifting papers for spot sales are said to be dotted with several huddles including provision of logistics for offshore inspection visits, advance payments for unseen cargoes and cancellation of lifting authorization by security agencies. Although the details of the ongoing automation are not available in the statement by Ughamadu, it is expected that automation would make all stages of sales and marketing transactions visible and traceable in an electronic platform. Group General Manager, Crude Oil Marketing Division (COMD) of the Corporation, Mallam Mele Kyari,

is quoted by Mr. Ughamadu in the statement as saying that “the goal of the Division in 2019 is to complete the automation process in the marketing and sale of Nigerian crude oil grades.” On cooking gas supplies, Mr Ughamdu said the corporations would implement effective commercial framework that would halt the export of propane and butane which are major components in the production of cooking gas. He said the measure would enhance availability of cooking gas and also arrest rising prices of the domestic fuel. “Currently some of our butane and propane entitlements are exported largely due to lack of vessels to make sure that these things come into the domestic markets and the absence of a commercial framework. What we are going to do is to make sure we put the right commercial framework in place so that those exports are converted into domestic consumption.” He said the NNPC was working in concert with stakeholders to create the enabling environment for in-country production of LPG with the country’s equity butane and propane entitlements.

The Oracle Today Wednesday January 23, 2019

ENERGY

Ensco, BW Offshore retain deepwater facilities in Nigeria Stories by SOPURUCHI ONWUKA

WO global marine equipment operators in the petroleum industry, Ensco and BW Offshore, have received contract extensions to retain their drilling and floating production vessels respectively in the Nigerian deepwater. The two companies declared in separate statements made available to The Oracle Today that they secure contract extensions for different tenures and under different terms to keep drilling and producing for two European multinational producers. In a statement, Ensco said Shell extended existing deepwater drilling contract by one year. Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company (SNEPCO) which operates Production Sharing Contract with the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), The Oracle Today learnt, retains the services of the ENSCO DS-10 for the period. The company defines ENSCO DS-10 as high-specification ultradeepwater drillship; but Shell’s spokesmen in Nigeria could not specify the location and nature of the drilling operations. Shell holds interests in several deepwater blocks including Bonga Southwest, Zabazaba, Eta, Nwa, Doro and others are under focus for development sanctions, and until final investment decision is reached development drilling is very unlikely. Other players in the deepwater including Total and ExxonMobil have in the past 10 years declared significant exploration successes in the Nigerian deepwater, indicating that Shell may have also rejoined the fray for more exploration. The drilling contract extension

by Shell in Nigeria is just one of the many other contracts declafred by Ensco for 2019. The company added that Mellitah also extended the contract for the semisubmersible ENSCO 5004 by two wells for estimated duration is six months in the Mediterranean Sea. The statement also has it that Premier awarded two contracts for the harsh-environment jackup ENSCO 123 in the North Sea. The first is a two-well contract that is expected to begin in July 2019. The second is a four-well contract that is expected to start in June 2020. Ensco said that it has the right to provide any ENSCO 120 Series rig to fulfill the second contract. In the UK North Sea, Premier awarded the jackup ENSCO 100 a one-well contract that is expected to start in March 2020. Other contracts announced by the rig contractor include a fouryear contract extension to December 2022 by Aramco for jackup ENSCO 76 Offshore Saudi Arabia, and a three year contract for jackup ENSCO 108. Others are a 500-day extension for jackup ENSCO 67 by PertaminaOffshore Indonesia; a one-well contract for jackup ENSCO 102 by Renaissancein the US Gulf of Mexico; and a one-well contract for drillship ENSCO DS-9 by Total offshore French Guiana. While the drilling contracts are short term, BW Offshore announced extension contract for its floating production, storage and offloading (FPSO) vessel by Eni’s Nigerian deepwater arm. According to the company, the production vessel which is deployed in Abo producing field will now remain in operations of Nigeria Agip Exploration (NAE) till June this year.

•Group Managing Director of the NNPC, Dr. Maikanti Baru acknowledging cheers from crowd of motorists and commuters during tour of fuel stations in Abuja.

Nigeria’s Oranto joins the $2 bn fray in S. Sudan

IGERIAN independent petroleum company, Oranto, is listed among the companies that have expressed investment interest in rebuilding the South Sudanese petroleum industry capacity after the country’s political gladiators agreed to work together and end to lingering war. The South Sundan government stated that it was providing fiscal incentives to attract global investors in helping revive the country’s petroleum industry and afford the government revenues for fast economic recovery.

The country relies almost solely on income from some 155, 000 barrels of crude oil production per day; but it plans to increase output radically in the face of pressing need for economic recovery. Daring investors mainly from Africa have responded with investment plans collectively valued at $2.0 billion, and the country still expects more investment influx in the year. According to the list of investment expressions unveiled by the South Sudanese Petroleum Minister, Ezekiel Lul Gatkuoth, Oranto owned by Anambra State born

Savannah focuses on Alaoji Power plant for Accugas deal

ULTINATIONAL independent petroleum explorer, Savannah Petroleum, says it is banking on near term gas demand upside expected from the streaming of the Alaoji power production plant in Abia State to strike acquisition deal on Accugas. Chief Operating Officer, Andrew Knott, stated at a forum that the acquisition of Accugas supplementary to its acquisition of Seven Energy would be “demonstrably NPV and cashflow accretive.” The Oracle Today reports that Savannah Petroleum which is the latest entrant into the Nigerian gas market with significant cash haul amended the transaction to also secure Accugas into its control. The move, according to Knott, targets growing customer base of Accugas which operates a central gas processing facility that feeds a number of maximum gas demand customers in the eastern axis of the country where Seven Energy held sway before experiencing difficulties. In explaining the decision of Savannah to acquire Seven Energy and Accugas simultaneously, Mr. Knott stated that the deal presents his company with opportu-

nity for enhanced cash receipts from the eastern gas market at a time of rising gas prices and demand boom. He said the planned addition of the Alaoji power station and other new customers to Accugas’ customer base diversifies the nearterm customer mix while also serving as the start of the roadmap that Savannah is seeking to establish to enable a third train to be built at the existing CPF. “I would like to take the time to thank the Seven Energy creditor group, AIIM, and our shareholders for their continued support which has enabled us to progress

this transformational acquisition. I would also like to thank both the Savannah and Seven Energy teams for their tireless work this year. We look forward with excitement to 2019 as we seek to consolidate and grow the South East Nigerian gas business and further develop and explore our high-value acreage in Niger,” Knott said in a statement. Investment Director West Africa, African Infrastructure Investment Managers (AIIM), Mr. Sola Lawson, said, “AIIM is pleased to partner with Savannah in this new transaction structure which aligns our two companies’ inter-

Elcrest hits more oil with Gbetiokun-3 well

ARTNERS in the Gbetiokun field in Nigeria have declared additional oil discovery with the Gbetiokun-3 well, announcing that the well successfully encountered hydrocarbon-bearing sands. Elcrest, the joint venture between foreign independent, Eland Oil & Gas Limited, and indigenous Stracrest Energy, stated that it would complete the Gebtiokun field in the month. The company said it is continuing operations on drilling deeper to the remaining targeted reser-

voir. Once completed, production testing of the Gbetiokun-1 and Gbetiokun-3 wells will be conducted using an early production system (EPS) with initial gross combined production estimated to be approximately 15,000 bpd. Start-up of the EPS is expected to be in Q1 2019, according to El and. Eland’s CEO, George Maxwell, commented: “Gbetiokun has the potential to deliver a 50% increase in oil production from OML 40.”

ests in the acquisition. We see great potential in the growth of the domestic natural gas market in Nigeria, and believe this transaction is a unique and exciting opportunity.”

millionaire and APC Chieftain, Prince Arthur Eze, will be the second largest investor in the risky environment with some half a billion dollar project plan. South African government fund leads with $1.0 billion investment plan in oil exploration and the building of a refinery, others in the line include $300 million operations expansion by Petroliam Nasional Bhd of Malaysia; and $350 million investment expression by local Trinity Energy. Mr. Gatkuoth said more investments are expected from Russian, Spanish and Emirati companies in the near term. Whereas some analysts see the investment plans as a risky slide, others interpret them as early bird positioning. The country’s minister explained that the plans would help South Sudan increase production significantly in 2019 with initial target to grow production from current levels to 200, 000 barrels per day.

Sirius waits on Adriatic-1 for Ororo-2 Spud

IRIUS Petroleum has put the drilling of proposed Ororo-2 well on hold pending the availability of the Adriatic-1 jack up rig. However, the company stated possibility of launching the planned drilling program in Nigeria in the near future after receiving advice from Shelf Drilling that the Adriatic-1 jack-up rig is currently completing the last of its pre-existing contracts with another operator.

The rig is at this time stationed on a block adjacent to Sirius’ Ororo field on OML 95. The timing for the spudding of the Ororo-2 well would now depend on the final completion of the previous contract. Sirius said it will not have a definitive time for the spud until Shelf Drilling notifies it of the mobilization of the rig to the Ororo-2 location.

Aramco’s Global Bond to fund $70 bn Sabic deal

AUDI Aramco plans to tap the debt market in the second quarter to finance the acquisition of petrochemical giant Sabic, likely issuing its first ever international bond and disclosing its accounts in the process. Saudi Arabian Energy Minister Khalid Al-Falih revealed that the company wanted flexibility in funding the Sabic deal, which could cost about $70 billion. The Aramco bond is “probably going to be in U.S. dollars,” Al-Falih said.

That debt sale would force the world’s largest oil producer to disclose its accounts to investors for the first time since its nationalization roughly four decades ago. It would also have to make public details about oil reserves and operations. The kingdom took a first step in that direction last week by releasing the first audit of Aramco’s oil and gas reserves since 1980. The funding program “will be sustained over time as Saudi Aramco grows and undertakes its capital program,” Al-Falih said.

The Oracle Today Wednesday January 23, 2019

e-Platform

9mobile: Wood exits Teleology consortium amid Presidency takeover reports Stories by VICTOR NZE

MID reports of a planned takeover of telecommunications firm, 9mobile by persons said to be related to the Presidency, one of the companies which form the consortium, Teleology that won the bid for control of the former Etisalat, has quit. The company owned by Mr Adrian Wood, a former chief executive officer of MTN Nigeria, announced its exit from the Teleology Consortium for undisclosed reasons, last Thursday, a development which Management of 9mobile, in a swift statement issued same day, confirmed. Accusing Wood of ‘avarice, rascality, impatience and knavery,’ the statement by 9mobile signed by Director, Regulatory and Corporate Affairs, Oluseyi Osunsedo, on behalf of the 9mobile Board of Directors, the company confirmed Wood’s exit from the consortium. Wood’s departure, two months after the formal takeover of Etisalat by 9mobile in a $301 million deal, comes after disagreements with Nigerian shareholders, according to a source within 9mobile. The 9mobile consortium comprising Wood’s company and the Nigerian investors was picked in February by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) as preferred bidder for Nigeria’s 9mobile - the country’s fourth-biggest telecoms operator - after a debt default forced 9mobile’s lenders to step in to find new investors. “While remaining resolutely focused on rewarding our loyal customers and attracting new ones with the best telecom services in Nigeria, Emerging Markets Telecommunication Services Ltd. trading as 9mobile deems it necessary to respond to

the myriad of false, misleading, and malicious media reports currently in circulation. “In the aftermath of the protracted mismanagement of an otherwise healthy company, and eventual default on its loans by the previous owners, 9mobile was acquired by Teleology Nigeria Limited, following an internationally competitive and exhaustive bidding process led by Barclays Africa, with participation of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Nigeria Communications Commission (NCC) and thirteen Nigerian banks including GT Bank, Zenith Bank, Access Bank and others. “This process, which was well covered by the Nigerian media, was concluded with the initial deposit of $50 million and a further payment of $251 million as settlement to the banks who took over the company. These payments as well as further due diligence and technical evaluations led to the clearance of the sale by the NCC, and handover of 9mobile to the new owners, who announced a Board on 12 November 2018 with His Royal Highness Prince Nasiru Ado Bayero as the new Chairman. “Teleology Nigeria Limited is a consortium including several local and foreign investors. While every partner in the consortium was delivering and meeting their obligations to the partnership in terms of financial resources, physical availability for crucial meetings and extensive network to help build the business, Mr. Adrian Wood’s Teleology Holdings Limited, which only owned a minority stake in Teleology Nigeria Limited, failed severally and wholly to meet theirs. Mr. Wood was not personally present for all the critical presentations made by the consortium during the bid process and failed abjectly with his financing arrangements with Swissbased UBS Bank. In all these failings,

•Chief Customer Officer, MultiChoice Nigeria, Martin Mabutho (right); Head of Customer Value Management, Seun Ikhekua, and Executive Head of Sales, Akin Salu at the MultiChoice Step-Up Campaign briefing in Lagos. other partners in the consortium filled the gap and pushed ahead until the sale was completed. “Since taking over the company, and without any assistance from Mr. Wood or Teleology Holdings, the Board has revived and enhanced relationships with key vendors and core business accounts; improved business relationships with suppliers; enhanced its core network capabilities to deliver network efficiency competitively with other operators. With the assistance of leading global consultants, the company is also undertaking a complete review of its operational, regulatory, financial and technical architecture. On these basis, 9mobile has emerged from a period of uncertainty over the past two years to attain an active subscriber base of 16 million, representing a net

LG redefines cinema experience with new range of TVs

T the just concluded 2019 Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas, LG Electronics, reiterated its unweaving commitment to continuously unleash customer-centric innovations that will improve consumer lifestyle as it introduced a new range of television sets. Collaborating with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant support on its new LG ThinQ smart TVs, the South Korean company at the biggest electronic gathering showcased innovative ways proved that its latest artificial intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT) technologies simplify daily life. According to Mr Jiung Park, General Manager, Home Appliances Division of LG Electronics West Africa, “LG appliances will be able to anticipate owners’ needs if they opt into having their habits analyzed.” LG, at the event, showcased a consumer-ready 88-inch 8K OLED TV, a 75-inch 8K LED TV, CineBeam Laser 4K projector and an all-new version of its eye-catching ‘wallpaper’ OLED — among many other electronics. 8K 88’’ Z9 OLED First spotted as a prototype last year at IFA 2018 in Belin, Germany, LG finally unveiled its first 8K OLED TV to the market this year. The 88inch LG Z9 8K OLED TV debuted at Las Vegas. The new LG Z9, will be running on the new alpha9 Gen 2 CPU like

the other top of the line new 2019 4K OLED TVs. The LG Z9 will also feature the new HDM1 2.1 port, allowing high frame rate (HFR). The result is smoother and clearer motion at 120 frames per second for better rendering of fast-action content such as sports and action movies. Support for enhanced audio return channel (eARC) enables home theatre enthusiasts to seamlessly utilize HDMI connectivity and enjoy the highest quality audio formats available with superb detail and depth. W9 ‘Wallpaper’ OLED Now coming up on its third year in existence, LG’s ‘wallpaper’ OLED TV will come with the new a9 Gen 2 processor’s improvements to High Frame Rate, HDR, and overall

• LG’s CineBeam

picture and sound processing – as well as the same thin, picture frame shape that made this ‘wallpaper’ television series so attractive. The W8 came with a 60W 4.2 Dolby Atmos soundbar built in to the set, so we’re likely to see similar audio credentials for this model. LG’s CineBeam LG also unveiled its second-generation CineBeam Laser 4K projector (model HU85L) with Ultra Short Throw (UST) technology at this year’s show. This new innovation builds upon the success of its first 4K projector (model HU80K) and continues to stand out from the crowd with its minimal space requirement and compact design that can project stunningly sharp 4K

increase of over 1 million subscribers in the last 6 weeks alone. “It is regrettable that Mr. Wood has allowed the same avarice, rascality, impatience and knavery that characterized his turbulent association with, and inglorious exits from several other companies to manifest again so early in 9mobile. While we wish him well in his future endeavors, we unequivocally assure our customers, suppliers, partners, regulators, and stakeholders that the Board is committed to continuing the upward mobility of 9mobile. Having invested so heavily in buying the company, and assembling a reliable team to pursue our goals, we want to categorically state that no distractions can stop us from this mission,” the statement read. Further assuring customers of the company’s commitment to its growth strategies, the company berated Wood’s ‘short-term financial gain.’ “The company’s core strategy in the short to medium term shall be underpinned by cost efficiency, innovative product development, network efficiency and strategic technical partnerships. We believe that this approach towards organic growth is more sustainable in building a strong Nigerian telecom operator, which taps into the deep technical expertise of the Nigerian labour force than an approach motivated by shortterm financial gain advocated by Mr. Wood and his associates.” However, industry watchers also believe that Wood’s exit from the consortium may not be unconnected with the growing reports of compromise and involvement in politics alleged in some quarters over the 9mobile choice of raising shares. Early in the month, former Vice President and the 2019 presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar, alleged that he is in possession of evidence showing how cronies of President Muhammadu Buhari acquired shares in Keystone Bank and 9mobile. Although the two firms have denied cronies of the president bought its shares, Atiku has continued to insist that a probe on the matter should be carried out. The Presidency has, however, asked the former vice president to tender evidence before it could act on the issue. “While we hold on to the piece of evidence that we have, it is no longer in doubt that underhand dealings took place in the acquisition of Keystone Bank and 9Mobile,” he said.

“The roles played by the Asset Management Company of Nigeria (AMCON) and the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC), both agencies of government have been widely reported and not controverted. The days of playing the ostrich by the Presidency are over. No more hiding for them”, he added. “It is not surprising that the EFCC has suddenly become prostrate and bluntly refused to investigate the acquisition of Keystone Bank and 9Mobile which have been widely adjudged to be fraudulent, if not out rightly criminal. “The EFCC, like many other agencies under the administration of the All Progressives Congress (APC) led Federal Government has once again displayed partisanship. The only hope at this stage is the National Assembly which we urge should take up the gauntlet,” Atiku said in a statement by his special assistant on Public Communications, Mr Phrank Shaibu, Thursday. The reports also allege that the share purchases amount in excess of the $300 million which the Teleology Consortium paid for the ownership of the embattled Etisalat.

.ng domain registration drops to 1,300 in Dec. 2018

HE registration of Nigerian domain name, .ng country code top-level domain, added paltry 1,300 new registrations over December 2018. Analyses of the latest data obtained from the Nigeria Internet Registration Association showed that the number of .ng domain was 130,407 in November 2018 and increased to 131,100 in December. In January 2018, the statistics showed that 103,096 units of .ng domain registration were recorded by NiRA; 106,736 in February; 108,599 ng domain in March; and 111,146 in April. According to NiRA records, the number of .ng domain was 114,308 in May, 118,264 in June, and 123,812 in July 2018. The data showed that a total of 37,313 units of new domain registration were recorded in the eight months under review; with 20,557 domain renewals and 587 domains transferred to other registrars. “The monthly rate of growth of the domain name registration is encouraging. In August 2018, there were 5,161 newly registered domain names while October recorded 128,078r,” NiRA said.

The Oracle Today Wednesday January 23, 2019

e-Platform

Intelligent service robots defining new direction for LG

Stories by VICTOR NZE

G Electronics (LG) has concluded plans to debut an updated version of its wearable CLOi SuitBot alongside a lineup of improved service robots which are nearing commercialization at the CES 2019. The wearable LG CLOi SuitBot supports the lower body to reduce stress when lifting and bending while the enhanced CLOi service robots – PorterBot, ServeBot and CartBot – will demonstrate their more advanced capabilities made possible by LG’s continuously evolving AI and robotics knowhow. Originally unveiled last fall in Berlin, the updated LG CLOi SuitBot supports the waist and augments the user’s own muscle power to reduce the risk of injury and fatigue when performing physically demanding tasks such as lifting and lowering heavy loads. SuitBot increases the user’s flexibility by enabling 50-degree extension and 90-degree flexion of the waist and activates when the wearer bends at a 65-degree angle, disengaging when standing in an upright position. The wearable robot operates for four hours on a single charge and recharges in just one hour.

First introduced to the public at CES 2018, PorterBot, ServeBot and CartBot are designed for environments such as airports, hotels, supermarkets and malls to assist customers, transport luggage, deliver meals and carry groceries. The new LG CLOi service robots have been updated with a more advanced autonomous navigation system as well as enhanced connectivity to allow for communication with mechanisms such as elevators and automatic doors. Using AI technology, LG CLOi robots analyze customers’ usage patterns to constantly learn and improve performance. Equipped with touch displays and voice recognition to facilitate natural interaction with customers, LG CLOi can handle more complex tasks such as answering questions and processing payments. These intelligent robots are designed to operate independently, navigating to a charging station when power runs low, returning to duty once fully recharged and performing daily self-diagnosis and automatic reporting. “The progress made by our entire robot lineup points to our commitment to deliver a robotic solution for the real world in the very near future,” said senior vice president Roh Jin-seo, head of LG’s robotics

Samsung Galaxy F coming with two batteries

NEW report comes to fill us in on the battery capacities of two upcoming Samsung flagships. The Galaxy F, or Galaxy Fold, is believed to incorporate not one but two batteries. According to the report, each side of the flip will have a 3,100 mAh cell - matching the capacity of the ones found in the future Galaxy S10 Lite or Galaxy S10 E, as it may end up called. Meanwhile, the 5G version of the Galaxy S10 will pack a mas-

sive 5,000 mAh battery. Perhaps it’s going to be the same one used for the upcoming Galaxy M20 and M30 handsets in order to keep the production cost low. With this, we now have the complete information about the battery stats of all 2019 Galaxy flagships. The dual battery approach on the Galaxy Fold in particular seems like a cool idea and we can’t wait to see if it turns out to be true.

Alcatel unveils cheap N15k 1x phone range with 5.5” 720p screen

HIS year at CES alcatel has brought two Android phones for the masses. Both have 18:9 screens, which offer slightly more screen real estate while keeping the phones relatively compact. These two choose sensibility over vanity and go with grippy, fingerprint resistant backs instead of trying to fit a metal cover in this budget. The alcatel 1x (2019) brings a larger, sharper display than last year’s model. The 5.5” display has a 720p+ IPS panel and is guarded by 2.5D Dragontrail glass. Not bad for the budget, which is $120 (less than N15, 0000). It even upgrades the rear camera – the 13MP main module is joined by a 2MP depth sensor for bokeh effects. It can record 1080p/30 video, though you

might want to put a microSD card in as the 16GB of built-in storage isn’t much. The phone is powered by the same chipset as before, a MediaTek MT6739 (quad CortexA53), though the CPU is clocked higher than before (1.5GHz vs. 1.3GHz). It’s paired with 2GB of RAM and runs Android 8.1 Oreo (not Go edition). The good news is that the battery capacity has been increased to 3,000mAh to help with the larger screen. The alcatel 1x (2019) has a 5MP selfie camera, which now supports face unlock. There will be two versions of the phone – one with a fingerprint reader and one without. The latter will rely on the selfie camera. The phone will be available this quarter in North America, Europe, Asia, the Middle East and Africa.

business. “With the ability to analyze and understand the surrounding environment, LG CLOi service robots are the culmination of significant investment in automation and artificial intelligence R&D.” In a related development, newly-released LG Q4 preliminary earnings for 2018 show 10% increase in sales. LG announced, Tuesday, its preliminary earnings for the fourth quarter of 2018, along with total annual results. The company reached $14 billion of consolidated revenues, which is slightly more than the sales results from the previous quarter. However, the operating profit went down sharply from about $666 million in Q3 2018 to about $67 million. The annual numbers look slightly more promising - sales for the 12 months of 2018 reached KRW 61.3 trillion ($54.4 billion), surpassing the 60 trillion mark for a second consecutive year. The operating profit for the past year is expected to be approximately $2.4 billion representing an increase of 9.5%, compared to 2017.

MTN Nigeria, CMRG launch ‘Smart Survey’

TN has launched Smart Survey for Business in Nigeria in partnership with Communication and Marketing Research Group Limited (CMRG). Called MTN Smart Survey, the service offers survey delivery through the USSD channel to MTN subscribers that have been profiled based on specific attributes, such as age, gender, location, among others. The tool has also been designed in a way that rewards customers with N100 MTN airtime upon completion of ques-

tions administered through the survey. Speaking at the launch, Chief Enterprise Business Officer, MTN Nigeria, Lynda, explained that businesses and organisations who subscribe to the service are provided with analysis, reports and recommendations based on the feedback of the respondents through an accredited research agency. Lynda also reiterated MTN’s commitment to providing tailor made solutions for everyday business challenges. In her words, “We are excited

Multichoice kicks off ‘Step Up’ promo

ULTICHOICE Nigeria, owner of DSTV and GOTV, has kicked off new promo tagged “Step-Up’’ to reward loyal customers on its platforms. The Step-Up offer, which will officially commence on January 15 to April 15, is open to both active and disconnected DStv Access, Family and Compact customers while subscribers on GOtv Lite, Value, Plus and Max are also eligible. The promo gives DStv Compact, Family and Access customers the opportunity to pay for an upgrade package and get a boost to viewing higher package programmes within 48 hours of activation. DStv customers on the Access package can pay N4,000 for Family package and then get a boost to view programmes on the Compact package, while subscribers on the Family package can pay N6,800 for Compact package to view Compact Plus package

programmes. Likewise, Compact customers can pay N10,650 for Compact Plus package and get Premium package programmes. The company explained that customers on the GOtv Plus, Value and Lite customers will get upgraded to GOtv Max when they pay a N2,500, while GOtv ‘tops up’ with N700. Active and disconnected GOtv Max customers can also take advantage of this limited offer to renew their subscription for N2,500. According to the Chief Customer Officer (CCO), MultiChoice Nigeria, Martin Mabutho, the offer reiterates the company’s commitment to offering loyal customers more value for money, as they will enjoy content on a higher package than what they paid for. “We are pleased to launch this offer that will give our customers the opportunity to experience higher packages at the price of a lower package.”

to know how this platform will help in sharpening business ideas and directions in the Nigerian market and MTN Nigeria remains committed in providing platforms to provide seamless business flow, the MTN Smart Survey is not just a tool but a strategic driver and a real enabler of business performance.”

Again, Apple lowers iPhone production by 10% in 2019

PPLE is having a tough time on the market - following its lowered earnings guidance Cupertino is reportedly cutting its iPhone production as well. The original plan for 48 million sold units between January and March, later reduced to 43 million, is now taking another hit and is cut with an additional 10% to 40 million. Sources said to Nikkei Asian Review that Apple asked its suppliers to produce fewer of its new iPhones for the upcoming quarter. The request was made before the January 2 guidance announcement, meaning the company was already aware of the lower than expected interest in customers. The revision in production will affect all three new phones - iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, and iPhone XR. The decline in production is around 20% on a yearly basis, compared with the 52.2 million phones sold in the first quarter of 2018, but the monetary effect might be different due to the updated retail prices of the new phones.

The Oracle Today Wednesday January 23, 2019

ISSN: 2545-5869

The

EDITORIAL

racle www.oraclenews.ng

Today

VOX POPULI SACRUM

On the diminished voting strength of the South East

Cont’d front page 1

been reading the figures to guide them in falsifying figures in favour of their candidates at the polls. It is an understatement to say that the strength of the South East in elections has been diminished as a result of this small number of registered voters from the zone. A greater calamity is that, in virtually all the five states, a large number (up to 40% in some states) have yet to collect their permanent voters’ cards. The deadline for collection of PVCs is two weeks away, and no-one will be allowed to vote without their PVC. Going by INEC guidelines for the polls, which 61 parties are said to have kicked against and have headed for the court to contest, the number of voters registered in an area can make the difference between success and failure for candidates. Simultaneous accreditation and voting, use of “incident forms” as well as non-compulsory use of card

readers are distortions likely to permit nobody needs an oracle to tell them that people whose names are not even on further tricks will be applied to shortthe voter register to vote. People who change the people. As was the case durare not properly accredited or who are ing the CVR, card readers may still malwith fake PVCs are likely to vote. We are function in targeted areas while they may not indicting INEC yet, but the previous work efficiently in other areas. Electoral elections it conducted are a guide. materials may still arrive late in, or be unThe South East has always been a targeted der-supplied to, many polling stations in zone. Even as continuous voter registrathe South East. Understanding that many tion (CVR) was going on last year, the Igbo live outside their home states, some president-general of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, unscrupulous politicians might still evoke Chief John Nnia Nwodo, had cause to fear aimed at scaring non-indigenes away voice out the concerns of the people of from their states of residence as polling the South East. He spoke of a deliberate day approaches. At least that was the plan by INEC to disfranchise them in the confession of one northern politician 2019 general election through shortafter the 2015 polls. Many Ndigbo had to age of registration materials in virtually leave states like Kano, Kaduna and the all the States in the South East zone. It FCT Abuja where they had registered, was evident that during the CVR, the and they could not vote in the South East machines in use in the South East were States to which they had fled. inefficient and few in number compared Politicians from the South East would do to those used in the north. Registration well to regard the recently released list of materials were in short supply, as were voters as a catalyst for action. While they staff needed for the exercise. The immecannot mobilise people to register now, diate outcome was that only a few peothey can ensure that all ready PVCs are ple were registered during the period. collected by their owners within the next In some booths, for instance, few days. For their part, eligible voters fewer than 50 people were should turn out in their numbers and vote registered in a whole day, as for their candidates on polling day. They opposed to over 200 registered could still regain some strength by utilisper booth in parts of the North ing their votes effectively. West and South West. Maybe these deficiencies were meant Our Vision TO BE among the top five newspapers in Nigeto frustrate prospective voters, ria and, in due course, the Numero Uno; to be a as many who were not patient newspaper of records that effectively caters to enough had to walk back to the information needs of all segments and sectheir homes in anger. tions of the Nigerian society as well as all social It is noteworthy also that a huge classes and cultures. Essentially, we want to be a number of South East people responsible corporate citizen, a commercially viable, properly organised media business, which reside in other zones of the meets its obligations to society, government country. While their kith and and the workforce. kin were being short-changed at home, they too were facing Mission discrimination in their areas of WE INTEND to contribute to the development residence: “indigenes” were of an inclusive Nigerian society, with a view to first registered before Ndigbo in getting rid of the dark sides of our national life (slothfulness, greed, corruption, nepotism, totalqueues received any attention. itarianism, etc); to continually engender and susSome got frustrated too. tain national debates that would ultimately lead We do not expect INEC to acto the enthronement of healthy national valuescept that it made attempts to -hard-work, justice, equity and fairplay, transparunder-register the South East. ency, good governance, resulting, in themselves, the egalitarian Nigerian society of our dream. We But the truth has now shown will give voice to the voiceless and at all times, on the final list it released last strive to be balanced, objective, honest, truthful week. and fair to all sides; so that through The Oracle Now that the ground has been Today, our people, the Nigerian people can see prepared for reducing the South a bright light at the end of what has been a very East electoratal strength in the dark tunnel. And we shall do all this in absolute trust in God who blesses good intentions. February and March 2019 polls,

The Oracle Today Wednesday January 23, 2019

OPINION Onitsha people are not descendants of old Benin Empire By IKECHUKWU AYO ADUBA

n 3rd November, 2018, a group known as the Great Benin Descendants (G.B.D.) held a press conference and touched on certain issues. The one that concerns me is the claim that Onitsha people descended from old Benin Empire. This assertion is totally unacceptable due to available historical facts and circumstantial evidence that clearly portray Onitsha within Igbo culture area. It is unfortunate that what triggered the romantic claim of Benin ancestry by Onitsha people was a trivial account about Benin Royal Mother going to collect firewood and being harassed by Onitsha people. A. G. Leonard (1937) stressed that Chima was forced to leave Benin with his followers in anticipation of reprisal from the then Oba whose mother was insulted. As a credible account, this is a non-starter because a Royal mother with a retinue of special assistants and slaves available going personally to collect firewood is not only untenable but sounds more like tales by the moonlight. Aspects of Onitsha History and Culture up to 2000 In 2014, I co-authored a standard history book with my younger brother, Odinigwe Charles Aduba. Chapter two of that book, “Traditions of Origin” exhaustively treated the origins of Onitsha people. Ample facts were presented debunking Onitsha’s Benin ancestry. (Aspects of Onitsha History and Culture up to 2000 by I. Aduba and C. Aduba, pp 23-34, Onitsha: Redeemer link Production, ISBN: 978-97850754-0-7). Facts that Debunk Onitsha Benin Ancestry

Theory • Chima, the alleged eponymous founder of Onitsha is a typical Igbo not Edo name. Chima never featured as a Benin Chief, King or 2. Prince in Benin recorded history. Not even in J. U. Egharevba, “A Short History of Benin.” • Old Benin culture significantly differs from that of Onitsha in the core aspects like language, burial system, title-taking, foods, ceremonies, native days, kingship practices, surnames and dress codes. •Old Benin Empire never extended their political hegemony up to South Eastern Nigeria due to distance and geographical barriers. •Inter-marriage between Onitsha and Benin is non-existent. •Benin Political system which is based on primogeniture or succession by the first son is a far cry from Onitsha’s where the kingship rotates between two villages, Umuezearoli and Okebunabo. • Benin bury their dead in the night unlike Onitsha who do it by day. • The distance between both Benin and Onitsha is quite far even by modern standards. •Benin calls their king “Oba” while Onitsha calls theirs “Obi” and both dress differently. • Benin and Onitsha have no close inter-relationship in modern times to commemorate the so-called ancestral connection. This is unlike what obtains between Obikporo and Ogbeotu villages with Igala people till date. • There is no connection between Onitsha festivals and that of Benin. Nri – The Kingdom they Knew Not

Nri Kingdom remains one of the most understudied kingdoms in Nigeria’s history. There are many indices to show that Eze Nri was as influential as the most prominent traditional rulers in Nigeria namely Sultan, Alafin, Oba, Obong, Emir, Obi among others. Northcote Thomas (1913) described Eze Nri as the spiritual potentate over a large extent of the Igbo Country. Elizabeth Isichei (1977) informed that Eze Nri has been a sacred, quasi-divine ruler who, on his death, is buried seated in a wood-lined chamber. This information was confirmed by the archaeological discoveries of Professor Shaw who worked on three sites at Igboukwu. The first site was a burial chamber of a king buried in a seated position in a wood-lined chamber, richly dressed and surrounded by treasures and with slaves at his feet while one foot rested on an elephant tusk. Onwuejeogwu (1975) stated that the Eze Nri was by tradition a king, a natural king not a chief, and it is irreverent to address him so far or refer to him as “Chief”. According to him, the Eze Nri built up a huge theocratic hegemony based on the control of Ozo title, the coronation of leaders (Ezes), the ritual control of the growth of important traditional crops such as yams, palm produce and vegetables. If the Eze Nri was very important as far back as 5,000 years ago, how can any king by whatever yardstick claim superiority over him? As a rhetoric question, no answer is needed here. Attention Great Benin Descendants Group!!! Your Group’s claim that Onitsha are Benin descendants is unacceptable for reasons earlier highlighted. More importantly, Onitsha people

as it is constituted today have people from Igala, Igbo land, Sierra Leone, Ghana, Liberia among others. If any segment of Onitsha migrated from Old Benin Empire, history has failed to place them in the proper perspective. History as a discipline is best equipped to identify ancestral connections or descendant status. The theory that derived Onitsha from Old Benin Empire was unrealistic to say the least. More disturbing is the fact that Onitsha faces hostility from her Igbo neighbours due to the fallacious claim of Benin ancestry. This romantic claim, over the years, had been more of an albatross than a blessing to Onitsha people. Conclusion Old Benin Empire was a foremost political heavyweight in the past. As from 1897, it came under the British political hegemony after signing many treaties of cession. To start claiming that one tenth of Nigeria originated from Benin while Lagos belonged to them at this point in history by the Great Descendants of Benin is puzzling and audacious. As a historian, it is my considered opinion that Onitsha was, is and will remain a typical Igbo society. No tribe in Nigeria is superior to the Igbo as attested to by the Igboukwu excavations which revealed the rich socio-economic and political heritage of Igbo people. •CP Onwa Ikechukwu Ayo Aduba (Rtd) who wrote from Onitsha, Anambra State, is currently the Chairman, Anambra State Vigilante Supervisory Committee and Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Vigilante Matters.

South-East PDP and Peter Obi: My take, by Hon Okey Enekwe By OKEY ENEKWE I was afraid earlier that our people from South East would not support Atiku’s running mate and our brother, former Governor of Anambra state, Mr Peter Obi. With the help of God, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Presidential candidate of the People’s Democratic Party is the next President of Nigeria come next month. The indicators are very high now. I was delighted that despite the odds , the South-East Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has reaffirmed its strong support for the candidacy of Alhaji Atiku Abukakar and Mr. Peter Obi. The party did not stop there but went ahead to warn those that are out to sabotage their efforts to beware of the wrath of the people. This has brought some fresh air to my lungs because sabotage from home is suicidal. It is like a household enemy. Zonal Chairman of the party, Deacon Austin Umahi declared that “The South East PDP will aggressively give all their support to the victory of the party in the South-East.” “Alhaji Abubakar has verifiable records. Mr. Peter Obi’s performance in Anambra State is there for everybody to see. Nobody is more qualified than both of them among other presidential candidates.” “Hold me by my words. You will now see a different dance step that will tell other parties that they have no place in the South-East. Every stakeholder must go and deliver his polling booth.” This message sank because before now , some people were giving a right traffic light but were busy turning left , heading for a collision but now PDP by God’s grace shall get it right. PDP members have agreed without compulsion to deliver the party in this 2019 General elections. And so it shall be. Again, my close encounter with Peter Obi during last Christmas festivities proved otherwise. Peter Obi is loved by Ndigbo and he is our next Vice President by God’s grace. Left for me, God has remembered Ndigbo for the actualization restructuring and end to marginalization. We can count on Peter on this because he has the ears of the PDP presidential candidate. And Ohaneze Ndigbo wants restructuring, and that they shall get from Atiku and Obi joint ticket. I speak so convincingly because I followed Peter to almost his campaigns and engagements throughout the Christmas period and I saw things myself. Those we read were against his candidacy told him point blank , they are supporting him and vowed to assist in every way possible to mobilize their own constituency and beyond for Atiku/Obi joint ticket. Some counter moves by those suspected to be working against Atiku/Obi joint ticket may be for political exigencies in the interim. Let’s hold them by their words that they would deliver Atiku/Obi.

I joined the campaign team and PDP VP , Obi to his private and public engagements including reception for former President Olusegun Obasanjo at Ukpor, Anambra state to Ebonyi, Enugu , Imo and Abia states and back to Anambra state on daily basis. Now, I am happy, Atiku picked Obi because none of the politicians would be able to appeal to the consciences of our Igbo brothers to a level of genuflecting for emphasis for peace to be in our party like Obi. He has won the hearts of many PDP members who were said to be against him before now. I was not told by anyone the story of the Interdenominational service and reception by our party, the People’s Democratic Party, PDP, at Emmaus House Awka, Anambra state. Before that event, I was afraid Mr Peter Obi , Okwute Ndigbo has no strong support from PDP stakeholders in not only Anambra state but the South-East. But I was wrong as over 20,000 Anambrarians from the 21 local government areas of the state and beyond converged on Emmaus House unsolicited in solidarity. The mammoth crowd at the venue before my very eyes spilled over the massive field of the large Emmaus complex. The crowd surged out of the gates into the streets of Arthur Eze Avenue. The event planned by the Presidential campaign team in Anambra led by Dr Harry Ohanezi to be a PDP affair saw people coming from even beyond Anambra State and from across all the parties in solidarity for the choice of Peter Obi. Indeed that outing summed Mr. Peter Obi truly as a phenomenon that should not be confined within the restriction of parties. Everyone at the event believed Nigeria is in trouble and needs a consummate and tested economist like Mr. Peter Obi to support a confirmed leader like Atiku Abubbakar to restore it on the path of progress and development. I saw Senatorial candidate of PDP Anambra South , Chief Chris Uba with hundreds of his supporters in solidarity against the notion outside that Uba isn’t supporting Obi. So are so many others. Candidates and party chieftains across party including Chief Hagers Igwebike, Yul Edochie, former PPA Leader in Anambra and chairman of Orient Newspaper , Mr Godwin Ezeemo, and Chairman of Reformed APGA, Hon Azubike Iloh, who led over 10,000 supporters to join PDP attended. Other PDP bigwigs who attended the event included Sen. Uche Ekwunife whose supporters turned out in hundreds, Chief Osita Chidoka, Hon. Chu Chu Onyema, Hon. Gabriel Onyenwife, Hon. Chris Azubogu, and my own Oga and brother Chief Okey Ezibe who has stood strong behind Obi right from day one of his nomination to mention but a few.. Mr. Oseloka Obaze, PDP’s flagbearer in 2017 Anambra Governorship election was pointedly

when he said only the likes of Peter Obi in position of authority can redefine the country. Obaze said: “We live in times of fracture and fear, national interest and our collective March for the future of the people of the state. We are here because the ruling APC has ruined the country. Nigeria needs a purposive and tested leadership, capable of confronting the problems of our time – unemployment, acute hunger, mindless borrowing, fractured economy, among others. We are here to receive a leader, Mr. Peter Obi who has the capacity to restore Nigeria to its past glory.” Senator Ben Obi former running mate of Buhari was disgusted on the rate of killings in the country and said that the only way to stop the atrocities and misgovernment going on in Nigeria is by voting out the APC and voting in the PDP joint ticket of Atiku and Obi. Senator Obi reviewed Mr. Peter Obi’s previous positions and concluded that Obi had all the qualities required to help Alhaji Atiku Abubakar to restore the glory of Nigeria. The PDP Chairman in Anambra State, Chief Ndubisi Nwobu, Obuka Awka recalled the unfulfilled promises of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) during electioneering campaigns in 2015, including making the naira one to a dollar, reduction in the cost of food items, stoppage of importation of refined petroleum products, among others and concluded it is time to vote out APC since not one of those promises was delivered. He appealed to Ndigbo to deliver Peter Obi for Atiku in South East as their own bargain for the 2019 general elections which is next month. The PDP Vice Presidential Candidate, who was at the event with his wife, Margaret Peter-Obi, thanked the people of the state for such unprecedented reception accorded him. He said his mission was to assist the party’s presidential candidate, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, in restoring sanity to the country by re-creating a country where unemployment would be tackled, jobs created, infrastructure provided and the economy rebuilt. Obi as well dispelled rumours that some leaders of the party in the South-east zone are working against the party in the forthcoming presidential election. He insisted that the leaders of the party in South-East and all the members were working as one family. His words: “Let me tell you all that PDP in the Southeast are working as one family, and when the votes are turned in, you will all see it. We are working as one family.” He reiterated that under the present government, Nigeria and its citizens have suffered greatly, promising that as vice president, he would ensure that major roads in the region are completed as against the propaganda being peddled by the All Progressives Congress (APC)

government. Bishop of Awka Diocese, Anglican Communion, Bishop Alex Ibezim, who led other church leaders to the interdenominational service prayed for Obi and his wife, Margaret, against any form of attacks as the elections draw near. Bishop Ibezim described Peter Obi as a servant leader, noting that only servant leaders can salvage Nigeria. His words: “Our country needs servant leaders, leaders who can serve selflessly. “We lack leaders like Nehemiah. Nehemiah served in the king’s palace, but didn’t take pay for the work he did. We need leaders like that but they are fast disappearing in Nigeria. We must pray to God to give us God-fearing leaders through this election. “Nehemiah was comfortable in the king’s palace, but he was more concerned about the welfare of the people of Jerusalem. Nigeria is characterised by war, hunger, and all manner of afflictions. All politicians here must know that and work to redeem the country.” The party received and presented PDP flags to new entrants, including Mr Godwin Ezeemo, Yul Edochie and Hygers Igwebuike who were accompanied by their supporters. This outing confirms Obi is at home in Anambra state and South-East at large against pockets of opposition from people he even made. South East is solidly behind Obi for Atiku/Obi joint ticket and the election results shall confirm this. •Hon Okey Enekwe is former Chairman of Orumba North local government area, Anambra state and contributed this piece from Awka.

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 January 23, 2019

Travel & Hospitality

Tourism drives Lagos economy with over N50bn cash transactions in Dec

Stories by VICTOR NZE

OR the second year in a row, the Lagos State economy received a major, unprecedented boost in the entertainment, hospitality and creative sectors in four weeks of the yuletide season, Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mr. Steve Ayorinde disclosed on Saturday. Trends and reports monitored by the Lagos State Government over the four weeks in December, especially during Christmas and New Year festivities, captured an estimated spending well above N50bn in cash transactions, a record slightly higher than December 2017 which also recorded a good run in travel, entertainment and leisure-related spendings. The monitored reports attributed the positive trend to the peak in entertainment activities; huge influx of people from neighboring states, neighboring countries and holiday makers from abroad who either chose Lagos as their primary destination or transit to other parts of Nigeria last December. In a press statement he signed, Ayorinde said various reports, statistics and analyses monitored across immigration office, banks, aviation, hospitality and leisure parks; food, beverage and distribution businesses as well as event venues, shopping malls and cinema box office earnings captured an estimated direct spendings of over N50bn within the entertainment and tourism sector in Lagos State alone. He said reports monitoring the prevailing December trends showed an unprecedented footfall influx of more than three million people entering Lagos in December alone with a multi-billion naira spendings in tow in hotel lodgings, local in-bound flights and taxi/chartered transportation, alcohol and beverage consumption; culinary business; visits to resorts, parks, clubs and lounges, live theatre and cinemas; concerts and clubs as well as ancillary businesses like fashion and clothing, kiddies’ games and toys, and private security guards, which are all now part of the tourism and

entertainment ecosystem. “Like in 2017, last December in Lagos was hugely creative economy- friendly, which again affirms the State’s preeminence not just as West Africa’s commercial hub but also its entertainment nervecentre,” Ayorinde said, adding that the beauty of this assertion is that the surge in the creative enterprise over the yuletide period was felt by all and sundry; was statistically measurable and is now a subject of discussion among analysis. The Commissioner said there was a slight correlation between the horrific gridlock in some parts of Lagos during the yuletide season and the huge trading by residents and visitors leading to seasonal job provision and economic gains. According to him, the high volume of economic activity that were directly related to tourismrelated visits, entertainment and leisure accounted for a significant chunk of the total value of transactions in the State of 21million residents whose estimated GDP of $136bn in 2018 is regarded as the fifth largest in Africa, after Nigeria, South Africa, Egypt and Algeria. The statement attributed the State’s continued high performance in the creative economy to Governor Akinwunmi Ambode’s deliberate interest in and commitment to the development of infrastructure, security and ideas that impact positively on tourism, entertainment and shopping. He cited the State’s “innovative Calendar of Arts and Culture events which was released in January 2018 specifically to assist both local and foreign visitors in planning their visit to and around Lagos with a detailed guide of festivals and art events available in each month.” Ayorinde said: “December has always recorded the busiest footfall in Lagos from figure obtained from immigration and aviation authorities. Aside the One Lagos Fiesta which drew over two million visitors cumulatively across its five venues over eight days

•Chairman/Chief Executive Officer, Air Peace, Mr. Allen Onyema (2nd left) exchanging pleasantries with the Chief Medical Director of the Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital, Prof. Anthony Igwegbe (left) and others during the airline’s donation of a 550KVA generator to the teaching hospital in Nnewi, Anambra State on Wednesday.

from December 24 to 31st, other big concerts like those by Davido, Whiz Kid, Burma Boy, Adekunle Gold, Rhythm Unplugged and Sound City Awards also attracted large crowd into Lagos and of course huge spending. “Hotels were filled to capacity in most parts of the State and we are aware that Lagos and Calabar benefited from additional scheduled flights due to the huge attractions of Calabar Carnival, OLF and the A-list Concerts in Lagos.” He added that virtually all the entertainment sub-sectors recorded huge spendings in billions over the yuletide period with 15 top foreign and local box office hit films released across the state hitting a record N3bn revenue

in December alone; while parks, beaches and other resorts also recorded remarkable, sometimes unprecedented patronage from reports made available to the state government. The statement added that the December 2018 high creative economy spending in the state corroborates the two key important global tourism industry indicators that were favourable to Lagos in 2018. First was the British report in Daily Mail of London in April 2018 listing Lagos alongside Nairobi, Kenya as the top non-European destinations among British travelers planning for summer holiday. The second was the MasterCard Global Travel Index released in

FG introduces e-yellow card, scraps old card April 1

EDERAL Government has introduced the electronic yellow card for Nigerian international travellers. This will replace the old card with effect from April 1 this year.

The yellow card is the international certificate of vaccination or prophylaxis. According to the Federal Ministry of Health, to obtain an e-yellow card, one has to

gerians traveling to Ethiopia to declare foreign currency exceeding 3000 dollars or its equivalent and other valuable like jewellery. Spokesperson, Nigerian Embassy and Permanent Mission to the African Union and United Nations Economic Commission for Africa, Kaston Ojomo, said this in a statement in Abuja. He said that the advice became necessary to safeguard Nigerian travelers from having their monies and valuables confiscated by the Ethiopian Authorities. He said this was to avoid reoccurring of unfortunate incidences that happened to many in the past. ”Foreign currencies in excess of 3000 dollars per person or its equivalent in foreign currency, as

well as valuables, should be declared to the Ethiopian Customs and Revenue Service on arrival to Ethiopia. ”Transit passengers staying longer than 24 hours in Ethiopia are also required to declare to the Ethiopian Customs any sum of money exceeding the amount or its equivalent in foreign currency, by completing the foreign currency customs declaration form as well. ”Please avail yourselves of using the safe boxes installed in the airport by the Ethiopian Airlines for the safe keeping of your valuables and monies, if you are unwilling to declare them. It is guaranteed that your belongings will be safe and will be retrieved on your way out of the country,” he said.

NIS cautions against fake recruitment sites

IGERIA Immigration Service (NIS) has advised Nigerians to be wary of fake recruitment sites operated by fraudsters. A statement issued in Abuja, Tuesday by NIS Public Relations Officer, Mr Sunday James, said the attention of the Comptroller-General of Immigration, Muhammad Babandede, had been drawn to a fake recruitment site operated by fraudsters. “The site is captioned Nigeria Immigration Service 2019/2020 form and How to apply using a fake website www.mediangr.com,’’ he said. James said the service was taking every measure to uncover those behind the fraudulent advert and therefore advised the public to desist from patronising such sites.

He noted that every official communication on issues relating to the service had an official platform which included advert in approved national dailies and the official website. “The NIS has not engaged any agent or person(s) in this respect; anyone touting recruitment should be reported to the nearest NIS formation. “The NIS will continue to deliver its core values and service to the general public and any recruitment exercise will be made public in line with approved government policy,” James said. Declare currency above $3000, jewellery in Ethiopia - Mission advises Nigerians The Embassy and Permanent Mission of Nigeria has advised Ni-

October 2018 ranking Lagos as the most visited city in sub-Saharan Africa in 2018. The Commissioner said these remarkable global recognition and last December’s good business outlook in the creative sphere were in tandem with the vision of Governor Ambode to make Lagos the creative hub in Africa and “to assure corporate institutions and investors that the State security and social infrastructure can support the ever growing entertainment and creative landscape in Lagos. “The night economy has fully returned and every part of the state duly felt the impact of a vibrant tourism, art and entertainment eco-system In December.”

register on the official website in addition to paying N2,000. “The payment receipt will then be taken along with the applicant’s international passport to any port health services office to get vaccinated so as to complete the process”. The ministry said it takes maximum of an hour for the card to be ready after vaccination, and that international travellers are to be vaccinated at least 10 days before travelling. “August 1, 2018 marked the official expiry date of the old yellow card and commencement of issuance of electronic yellow card. The card, which is machine-readable, and has the ability to store vaccination history of the holder, was designed to put an end to the era of fake yellow card issued by unauthorised personnel for years. “The card has increasingly become an essential travel document, with several embassies making it a prerequisite for visa application”, the ministry added.

The Oracle Today Wednesday January 23, 2019

AVIATION

Aviation group berates FG over N8.5bn for Nigeria Air in 2019 budget Stories by VICTOR NZE

RESIDENT of Aviation Round Table (ART), Dr. Gabriel Olowo, has berated the Federal Government for earmarking N8.5bn for the suspended Nigeria Air project in the 2019 budget proposal submitted to the National Assembly. This is just as a former director of the defunct Nigeria Airways insisted that the path to establishing a national carrier taken by the government was ill-advised. Speaking in Lagos, Thursday at the launch of a book; ‘The Learned Commander,’ written by Capt. Dele Ore to mark his 75th birthday, Olowo also criticized the government for setting aside the sum of N500m for the foreign Transaction Advisers in the budget. According to Olowo, it would only have cost the government a paltry sum to engage the services of technical professionals in the country, who, he added, would give the government appropriate advice on how to go about establishing a befitting national carrier for the country. While insisting that government was not following the right path in establishing a new national carrier for the country, the ART President

further advised it to make use local consultants in the sector to guide them on how to re-establish a new national airline for Nigeria. “I read it somewhere that the Federal Government proposed another N8.5bn for the establishment of a new national carrier for Nigeria in the 2019 budget proposal to the National Assembly. Out of this money, N500m was set aside for Transaction Advisers. “If you give the N500m to people like Dele Ore and co, they will advise you better on how to have a befitting national carrier. However, ART as a body will continue to fight for the interest of the former staff of Nigeria Airways. We will continue to drum it to the ears of the government that what is due to them is paid,” Olowo said. Earlier, author of the book, Capt. Dele Ore, an erstwhile Director of Operations of the defunct Nigeria Airways, posited that the liquidation of the defunct national carrier by the Federal Government was based on wrong advice. Ore expressed sadness over the liquidation of the airline in 2004 by President Olusegun Obasanjo’s government without paying the workers their severance packages. “Nigeria Airways was all I know in my entire life. In fact, someone

NCAA warns airlines against unauthorised charter operations

IGERIAN Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has threatened to wield the big stick over charter operations by unauthorised permit holders. General Manager, Public Relations, NCAA, Mr Sam Adurogboye who gave the warning in a statement, Sunday in Lagos, said that any operator caught engaging in such unauthorised services forthwith, would have its Air Operator Certificate (AOC) suspended or revoked. “Consequently, the general public is hereby reminded that holders of Air Transport Licence (ATL) and Airline Operating Permit (AOP) with valid AOC are the only authorised operators to carry out Charter Operations. “This is in line with the NCAA statutory responsibilities of safeguarding the interest of the general public and that of the investors in the aviation sector.

“The Nigerian Civil Aviation Regulations (Nig.CARs) 2015 Part 18.2.3.1. states thus: No person shall use any aircraft in Nigeria for hire and reward in public transport category to provide non-scheduled or charter air service unless such a person holds an ATL or AOP issued by the authority. “For the purpose of verification and authentication, the list of current holders with appropriate authorisation to carry out charter operations can be found on the NCAA website: www.ncaa.gov.ng. “It therefore follows that members of the public transacting business with any unauthorised operators will be doing so at a high risk as such operations may not have valid insurance cover. The NCAA will continue to ensure strict compliance with safety regulations as violation(s) will be viewed seriously, ‘’ Adurogboye said.

boasted that once they remove an aeroplane from me, I will be empty. I retired shortly before the airline was liquidated by the Federal Government. “The government was ill-advised. It was a costly mistake. To liquidate the airline and not settling the staff was another crime against the staff. However, former President

return tickets on same reference within the period, quote their membership numbers when booking for miles to be credited within 24 hours. ‘We are pleased to announce the introduction of Mega Miles promo. It is strictly a promo to encourage members of our frequent flyer program, to book return tickets to get Mega Miles, which can be explored for upgrade, exchanged for free tickets, pay for excess, and lots of other cash-saving benefits.’’ ‘This offer is also to encourage our guests to plan their trips, book return tickets to get massively rewarded for their membership and participation. Guests are advised to quote their membership numbers

liquidated were still not properly paid their dues. Ore, a former President of the Aviation Round Table (ART), added that the government’s plan to float another national carrier in Nigeria Air would be difficult until ex-workers of Nigeria Airways were completely settled.

•(From left): Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) Acting Director Licensing, Dr. W.T. Haggai and the Accountable Manager/CEO Leadstream Aviation Training, Engr. Ahmed Roland, at the presentation of the ATO certificate at NCAA office in Lagos.

NAMA begins installation of CAT II ILS with Benin airport

IGERIAN Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) has now completed the installation of the much needed Category II Instrument Landing System ( CAT II ILS) at the Benin with plans to commence the process at the Maiduguri, Jos and Minna airports. Managing Director of NAMA, Capt. Fola Akinkuotu, who made this revelation at a Town Hall meeting with staff at the agency’s headquarters in Ikeja Lagos, Monday, said this was in line with an earlier pledge by the agency to upgrade navigational infrastructure in strategic airports across the country in a bid to boost socio-economic activities in such areas. Akinkuotu also announced that the agency has equally installed and commissioned the ILS at Port Harcourt airport which was damaged by an aircraft last year, saying that the flight commissioning which was

Dana Air introduces ‘Mega Miles’ promo from February 1

ANA Air has launched a Mega Miles promo which encourages its guests to book a return ticket and get miles good enough to get an upgrade from economy class to business class at no cost or pay for excess luggage using miles scheduled to run from 1st of February to 31st of March 2019. The airline has also started rewarding guests with N5,000 tickets in the ongoing Dana Air/ MMA2 travelers reward promo which will last till August of this year According to statement by the airline’s Media and Communications Manager, Kingsley Ezenwa, the offer is only for Dana miles members. The promo entails guests to book

Umaru Yar’Adua did a bit by paying the five years severance packages but Jonathan who was his vice, when he took over did not do anything for the workers.’’ He, however, lauded the present administration for paying a part of the severance package but lamented that he and a few others who retired before the airline was

when booking.’’ ‘’We have also started rewarding our guests with N5,000 tickets in the ongoing Dana Air/ MMA2 travelers reward promo. This promo has seen the terminal record huge traffic and has also proven its capability to process good number of passengers with its ultra-modern facilities.’’ ‘’To take advantage of the MMA2/ Dana Air travelers promo which is valid till August 2019, our esteemed guests are advised to fly Dana Air just four times from MMA2 to any of our destinations to get the 5th ticket at N5,000 only. We believe in offering more for less and rewarding loyalty and this promo is just one of the ways to demonstrate our commitment.’’

handled by Omni-Blue Aviation Ltd indicated that the newly installed landing aids were operating at optimal capacity. Capt. Akinkuotu informed staff that in line with management’s objective to maintain a healthy and productive workforce, the agency had concluded plans to enroll NAMA into the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) in the next two months just as he assured them that the contentious issue of review of Condition of Service (COS) was being handled and would soon be concluded by government. The NAMA boss expressed grati-

tude to management and staff of the agency for the support and cooperation accorded him over the past two years of his ascendancy as managing director, saying that whatever successes his administration has recorded could not have been without the individual and collective effort of NAMA workers. While cautioning staff to desist from frivolous expenses, he enjoined them to “put in more effort to move NAMA to the next level,” stressing that the agency would recognize hard work by giving special awards to deserving members of staff.

Air Peace to launch P/H NAF Base flights January 18

IR Peace will commence daily flights into the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Base in Port Harcourt, Rivers State from the Murtala Muhammed Airport 2, Lagos and the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja starting January 18. A statement issued by the airline’s Corporate Communications Manager, Mr. Chris Iwarah confirmed that the operations would be managed by the carrier’s subsidiary, Air Peace Hopper as part of its no-city-left behind project targeted at connecting under-served and unserved domestic and regional routes. “We are delighted to announce the commencement of our flight operations from the Murtala Muhammed Airport 2, Lagos and the Nnamdi Azikiwe Airport, Abuja to the Nigerian Air Force Base, Port Harcourt, Rivers State starting from Friday, January 18, 2019. “Our valued customers had yearned for the extension of our flight operations to the Port Harcourt NAF Base and we are quite

pleased to respond to their request to enter the route. “The new route is in fulfillment of our promise to connect more unserved and underserved routes in Nigeria and West Africa this year. Our flights to the NAF Base would be of great service to especially the military and security community as well as other travellers who seek an alternative terminal to the Port Harcourt Airport, where we currently operate several flights into daily. “For proper coordination, we have brought the Port Harcourt NAF Base operations under our subsidiary, Air Peace Hopper. This, we believe, is a major step towards giving our valued customers the best deal in flight operations this year. We indeed look forward to an exciting time on the Port Harcourt NAF Base route,” the airline said. Air Peace currently operates into and out of 14 domestic and five regional destinations, including Accra, Banjul, Dakar, Freetown and Monrovia.

The Oracle Today Wednesday January 23, 2019

INSURANCE & PENSION

Less than 3m Nigerians have no insurance cover – CIIN Stories by VICTOR NZE

HARTERED Insurance Institute of Nigeria (CIIN) has disclosed that it would step up its campaign to attract more Nigerians to embrace Insurance in 2019, as he expressed the worry that less than three million people in the country had no insurance cover. President of the CIIN, Mr Eddie Efekoha who said this in Lagos, Monday, further disclosed that said the campaign would enlighten Nigerians and assist them to take up insurance policies, as, according to him, the campaign will also tackle financial exclusion and other related challenges. Efekoha said that in spite the long existence of insurance in the country, its penetration had not grown beyond 1.19 per cent. He said that as part of the agenda to commence the campaign, the institute would pay homage to traditional rulers of some towns and cities. The CIIN president explained that the essence of the courtesy visits was to enable the institute receive royal blessings and permission to embark on the campaign in their domains. According to Efekoha, the campaign is expected to boost insurance penetration by 300 per cent before the first quarter of 2020. “The boost will also engineer the insurance industry to increase its quota to the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP),’’ he said. The CIIN president said that the institute had already paid homage to His Royal Highness, Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Saliu Adetunji in Dec. 2018 to solicit his support for

the campaign. “Other cities slated for visits by the institute include Oyo, Ilorin, Ado-Ekiti, Lokoja, and Okene among others,’’ he said. Efekoha further said that for insurance to be viable like others sectors of the economy, stakeholders must also embrace retail insurance business that has been neglected. According to him, operators have over the years abandoned the insurance retail market thinking that there is no business in the sector. “However, they forget that people within the bracket contribute more to the economy,’’ he said. Meanwhile, the CIIN has restated its commitment to the growth of the insurance industry The institute’s President, Efekoha stated this on Wednesday in a goodwill message to members during a meeting in Lagos to usher in 2019. “On behalf of the Governing Council, I convey best wishes to distinguished members in appreciation of their concerted efforts in moving the institute to greater heights in 2018. As a body, we are committed to the growth of the Nigerian Insurance Industry and will not relent in our contribution to its agenda. “We have entered 2019, which is so special because the institute will be 60 this year. 2019 will be a year of reflection on the Institute’s journey through the years and its evolution as the premier professional body in Nigeria,” he said. He said CIIN had collaborated with stakeholders to explore all avenues in re-positioning the insurance industry for greater rel-

Lagos paid N166bn into CPS account in 11 years – Ambode

AGOS State has funded its employees’ Retirement Savings Accounts (RSAs) under the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS) with N166 billion in the last 11 years, Gov. Akinwunmi Ambode has said. Speaking on Tuesday at a retreat for Lagos State Trade Union Leaders at Michael Imoudu Institute in Ilorin, Ambode said that Lagos remained the only state that was apt in its monthly remittances into serving employees’ RSAs. Spokesperson for Lagos State Pensions Commission, Basirat Lawal, said in a statement that Ambode was represented at the retreat by the Commissioner for Establishments, Training, and Pensions, Dr Akintola, Benson. “The total contributions remitted to Pension Fund Administrators (PFAs) from April 2015 to October 2018 was N91 billion. “In the last 38 months, from August 2015 to October, 2018, the state has paid Accrued Pension Rights (APRs) totalling N40.93 million to 9,982 retirees. “The APRs of N74.58 billion has been paid to 17,391 retirees since the commencement of the payment of retirees’ entitlements in 2010 till date,’’ he said.

The governor said that the government would continue to protect the interests of its retired workers, adding that this was the rationale behind the payment of huge pension entitlements since the inception of CPS in the state. He disclosed that his administration would soon launch a health insurance scheme for workers. He said that plans were underway to extend the scheme to also cover retired civil servants. “This is because health means wealth; we want to ensure that our retirees live healthier and enjoy their retirement,’’ he said.

•(From left): Mr. Humphrey Ozegbe, head, Human Resources; Mr. Tony Saiki, head, Oil and Gas; Mr. Daniel Braie, Managing Director/CEO; Mrs. Joyce Ojemudia, general manager, Marketing; and Mr. Moses Omoregbe, company secretary, all of Linkage Assurance Plc at the Company’s 2018 End of the Year Dinner and Awards Ceremony held in Lagos.

evance in the country’s economy by advocating for ethical practice and professional development. “This is consistent with our mission to provide world-class manpower with the highest standard of professional and ethical train-

ing for effective operations in the country and international business environment,” he said. Efekoha also noted 2019 might pose some challenges for the sector being an election year. He, however, said there would

be a lot of risk elements for Insurance outfits to take advantage of. “My advice to underwriters is to explore all areas of business generation that the election year will present in various forms,” he said.

lion (1,600,000,000) ordinary shares of NEM Insurance Plc, representing about 30 percent of the latter’s issued share capital, was sold to new shareholders. “The trade which happened at year end 2018 closed at a significant premium to the closing price on the floor of the Exchange. “We have had extensive discussions with the management and board of NEM Insurance Plc in the last couple of months over our inter-

est in working with the team, to unlock the latent value we see in them. “However, as we could not agree on the modalities for working together in pursuing this vision, we recently reached an amicable understanding and have thus decided to exit our investment in this great company. “We wish the management and board well in their visionary leadership of the company, given its huge potentials.”

VFD trades off 30% stake in NEM Insurance

FD Group has announced its exit from the NEM Insurance as it has now traded off its shares in the insurance firm representing 30% stake. The deal which is believed to have taken place late year followed the successful capital raise embarked upon by VFD through rights issue and private placements in December 2018, the company disclosed in a statement, Monday. According to VFD, the rights issue and private placements was a total success as it was oversubscribed by 39% on both counts with the group realizing a total of NGN 2.78billion as against the NGN 2billion target despite the short period of time the exercise lasted. The group also announced that it has “in an agreed to trade a significant block of its stake in NEM Insurance Plc”. The statement signed by the Marketing and Corporate Communications Unit of VFD Group, Sylvia Henry Toochukwu, read: “A combined block of one billion, six hundred mil-

NAICOM confirms Braie as Linkage Assurance MD/CEO

ATIONAL Insurance Commission (NAICOM) has confirmed the appointment of Mr. Daniel Braie as the Managing Director/CEO of Linkage Assurance Plc. The approval was communicated to the Chairman Board of Directors via a letter dated 28th December 2018. Braie was the Executive Director, Technical of the Company before he was elevated to the position of the Acting Managing Director earlier in

Premium Pension appoints Abdu as ED Operations

OARD of Premium Pension Limited has appointed Mr. Sadi Abdu as Executive Director Operations & Services. According to a statement released by Head, Corporate Communication, Aliyu Mohammed Ali, the appointment of the new Executive Director is expected to birth the much expected premium experience to members of Premium Pension. Mr. Sadi is a seasoned banker of repute, a distinguished member of Chartered Institute of

Bankers of Nigeria (HCIB), member of Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy (CIPFA) United Kingdom, Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) as well as Certified Islamic Finance Analyst (CIFA). He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting from Bayero University, Kano (BUK). The new ED is a Chartered Accountant (ACCA) and Fellow of Institute of Credit Administration of Nigeria (FICA). He started his career as a lecturer with College of Arts & Sciences (CAS),

Kano before moving to Messrs. Muhtari Dangana & Co Chartered Accountants as a trainee accountant in Lagos. While welcoming the new Executive Director on his assumption to duty at the corporate head office of the Company, the Chief Executive Officer Mr. Umar Sanda Mairami expressed confidence that the appointment of the new Executive Director would further strengthen the operations of the Company for improved performance.

2018. A seasoned insurance professional, he has to his credit over 35years work experience including at senior management levels across different companies in the industry. He is expected to bring to bear his wealth of knowledge and experience to transform the operations of the company for greater growth. Meanwhile, the company has also announced the appointment of Mr Okanlawon Adelagun, as Executive Director, Technical. Adelagun who appointment became effective 7th January 2019 is subject to the approval of NAICOM. He is expected to bring his wealth of experience to rejuvenate the technical operations of the company for efficiency and productivity. An alumnus of Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT) and the West African Insurance Institute (WAII), Braie, has four decades of professional experience in the insurance industry garnered from UNIC Insurance Plc, Trust & Guarantee Insurance Company Limited, Crusader Nigeria Plc and Topflight Insurance Brokers Limited, where he held various managerial positions.

The Oracle Today Wednesday January 23, 2019

INSURANCE & PENSION

Global reinsurance capital remains resilient despite $230bn losses – Report

Stories by VICTOR NZE

LOBAL reinsurance capital, comprising traditional and alternative capital, fell 2 percent in 2018 to US$595 billion from $605 billion in 2017, remaining resilient in the face of insured natural catastrophe losses of $230 billion over the two-year period, according to a report published by Aon’s Reinsurance Solutions business. Traditional reinsurance capital declined by 4 percent in 2018 to US$496 billion, driven in part by rising interest rates and a stronger U.S. dollar. On the other hand, alternative capital rose 11 percent last year to US$99 billion, an increase of US$10 billion over 2017, said the report titled “Reinsurance Market Outlook – January 2019.” While traditional reinsurers continue to report strong risk-adjusted capitalization and have been able to trade through recent natural catastrophes without capital impairment, the impact has been more significant for the alternative capital sector, the report noted. “Many [capital market] investors in the final quarter of 2017 have experienced some combination of lower than expected pricing, ‘creep’ on 2017 events and further losses in 2018,” the report continued. “Significant amounts of collateral have become trapped and the ongoing commitment of newer participants is being tested. This is affecting areas most dependent on this form of capacity, notably the retrocession market.” (While “lost collateral” is capital that has suffered loss due to an event, “trapped collateral” can occur when a cedent does not know the full extent of its losses and will thus have to wait to allow those losses to fully develop until the end of the contract period, which is likely to be year-end.) Nevertheless, overall reinsurance supply continues to outstrip de-

mand, despite a slight increase in global reinsurance demand driven by regulatory requirements, attractive market dynamics for buyers and recent losses in non-peak territories that has led buyers to seek more robust coverage for these perils. In addition to the traditional reinsurance market, a number of emerging or evolving risks have seen growth in buying and increased analytics investment, which Aon expects will translate to increases in risk transfer. A few of these risks include flood, cyber, drones and the sharing economy. Drilling down into the flood peril, as an example, the report sees opportunities for re/insurers with U.S. flood risk via 1) reinsurance of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and by 2) providing private coverage for flood risks that are uncorrelated with the NFIP. Recent catastrophe events involving flood damage in the U.S., such as Hurricanes Harvey, Irma, Florence and Michael, highlight the gaps that exist in available flood models but provide opportunities for learning and improvement, the report continued. “Carriers wanting to develop private flood products and bring such tools to market, especially those that can demonstrate proficiency in risk selection and pricing, will generally find reinsurers and ILS investors receptive,” added the report. The report also highlighted the latest in rating agency and regulatory updates including S&P’s recent criteria proposals that may affect capital management strategies, Moody’s plan to incorporate of cyber exposure in its ratings, and the ramifications of A.M. Best’s building block rating assessments rolled out in October 2017. Other statistics detailed in the Aon report include: ‘Global catastrophe losses in 2018 losses are

Wapic Insurance launches ADR platform

APIC Insurance Plc has launched an ombudsman desk for the purpose of resolving service issues between the company and its customers. The Ombudsman is an Alternate Dispute Resolution (ADR) platform wherein an aggrieved customer of the insurance firm may lodge complaints or grievances over the telephone or email to the Ombudsman and get an amicable and final resolution of the complaint within the shortest possible time. Speaking at the event, which took place, Friday, Managing Director/ Chief Executive Officer, Mrs Yinka Adekoya, said the ombudsman desk will be responsible for informally investigating and mediating fair settlement of commercial disputes between the company and its customers, adding that the desk, would usually engage the parties informally with a view to resolving the dispute timely, encourage business continuity and improve customer experience. “We at Wapic Insurance are very excited to launch this initiative. Whilst the notion of having an ombudsman desk is not new in the Western-developed societies and some parts of Africa including Nigeria, this is first time an insurance company will launch its very own

ombudsman desk. “It is a feat for us as an organisation and this also buttresses our vision which is to transform and illuminate the insurance industry for the benefit of our customers and stakeholders as well as our mission which is leading in all that is worthy,” she said. She maintained that the desk was launched to inform the company’s customers of the best medium to channel their disputes and also to build confidence in current and prospective customers about the firm’s services and ability to handle their expectations. “Our customers should know that we are continuously transparent in our business operations. Our goal is to continue to strengthen business relationships,” she added. She noted that the desk is independent, hence, it resolutions cannot be manipulated. She also noted that the desk reports to the management and board and that it has been empowered to handle all claims related cases, irrespective of the amount involved Also commenting, an Executive Director of the firm, Bode Ojeniyi, said the pilot scheme of the initiative started in 2018 and that from then to date, over 57 cases have been resolved amicably.

•(From left); Mr. H. O. Balogun, representing the Vehicle Inspection Service (VIS), Lagos; Abel Omokade, representing Commissioner for Insurance, NAICOM; John Meheux, Zonal Commanding Officer, Ogun & Lagos, Federal Road Safety Corps; Yetunde Ilori, Director General, Nigerian Insurers Association (NIA); Mr. Tope Smart, Chairman, NIA; Lanre Iyanda, General Manager, Courteville Business Solution Plc, and Niyi Alao, Acting Managing Director, Nigerian Interbank Settlement Systems, during the NIA launch of Nigerian Insurance Industry Database, USSD code *565*11# in Lagos on Thursday.

currently estimated at US$85 billion, compared to losses of US$147 billion in 2017, which was a near record. Last year’s catastrophe losses were 47 percent higher than the 2000-2017 average of US$56 billion. ‘Payouts by the private insurance industry and governmentsponsored programs in 2018 were

the fourth-highest on record when comparing historical annual losses on an inflation-adjusted basis. Catastrophe bond issuance totaled US$9.7 billion in 2018, making it the second most active year on record. ‘Six of the ten most destructive wildfires on record in California

were registered during a 16-month stretch from July 2017 to November 2018. These six fires are estimated to have cost the insurance industry nearly US$32 billion in claims, a combined loss total would rank as one of the top five insured loss events ever recorded for any peril.’

tor, NEM Insurance Plc said that the NIID platform had been operational nationwide. He added that “with challenges in verification in areas with poor internet coverage. Verification of motor certificates through the dedicated devices became highly impaired due to the vicissitudes of internet operations in the hinterlands. This led to the introduction of the USSD technology. “The USSD (Unstructured Supplementary Service Data) is a Global System for Mobile Communication (GSM) technology used to send text between a mobile phone and an application programme in the network. It works independent of internet connectivity. In this instance, any mobile phone (not necessarily a smartphone) would communicate with the NIID system to retrieve policy status whenever required. “It is hoped that with the USSD, we would have fully overcome the problems associated with the dedi-

cated devices as it guarantees uninterrupted service throughout the country and on all networks. “Our existing and prospective customers now have the opportunity to confirm the genuineness of their respective policies at the time of purchase to avoid any embarrassment should claim occur. “We want to thank our partners in this journey– Nigeria Inter-Bank Settlement System Plc. and Courteville Business Solutions Plc. for their support and do assure them of more strategic partnerships as we develop other modules to improve insurance business in Nigeria. “The success recorded so far cannot be complete without acknowledging the co-operation and support received from the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC),Vehicle Inspection Services (VIS) of various States, Nigeria Police Force (NPF), National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) and other stakeholders in the insurance industry.

NIA unveils USSD code to check motor insurance policy status

IGERIAN insurers Association (NIA) has launched the industry’s USSD code *565*11# in the industry. The platform unveiled, Monday, which works independent of internet connectivity, allows vehicle owners to check if their motor insurance policies are genuine and when it will expire, by diailing *565*11# with any mobile phone. Speaking at the launch of the code, the Chairman of the Association, Tope Smart, said the launch is a step towards bringing insurance closer to the people and ultimately eliminating fake insurance certificates in the market. He recalled that in 2010 the Association took a major step towards eliminating fake insurance certificates in the market through the inception of the Nigerian Insurance Industry Database (NIID). The database, according to him, went live in 2011 and insurance policies obtained by motorists could be checked real time online on the internet and through dedicated hand held devices, adding that the industry has continued to reap the benefits of the scheme. He noted that before the establishment of the platform, cloning andfaking of insurance certificates was a thriving business but the establishment of the database has assisted the industry in reducing the incidents of fake insurance certificates in the market. Till date, there are over 3(three) million vehicle details on the platform. The platform he added has been enhanced to include Stolen Vehicles and Claims Reporting modules in response to the challenges thrown up by actions of suspected fraudsters that made multiple claims with the intent to defraud the industry over the last few years. The NIA chairman who also doubles as the Group Managing Direc-

NSE lifts suspension on African Alliance Insurance

IGERIAN Stock Exchange (NSE) has lifted the embargo placed on trading on the shares of African Alliance Insurance Plc. Trading in the equities of the insurance company was initially suspended on the local bourse following failure of the firm to adhere to listing rules. African Alliance Insurance was among the eight companies suspended from trading their shares at the NSE on July 5, 2018. They had failed to comply with Rule 3.1, Rules for Filing of Accounts and Treatment of Default Filing, Rulebook of the NSE, which required them to file their financial statements within a speculated

timeframe. Having now submitted its audited financial statements, the NSE has announced the lifting of the suspension on African Alliance Insurance, allowing the insurer to begin trading its securities at the local stock exchange. A statement issued by the management of the NSE said the lifting of the embargo became effect from Tuesday, January 8, 2019. “In view of the submission of the company’s accounts and pursuant to Rule 3.3 of the Default Filing Rules, dealing members are hereby notified that the suspension placed in the trading of the company’s shares was lifted on January 8, 2019,” the notice said.

The Oracle Today Wednesday January 23, 2019

EQUITY & Capital Market Meristem Securities attain GIPS compliant status Stories by JEROME USHAKANG

ERISTEM Securities and Assets Management Group has emerged as first indigenous firm in Nigeria to meet Global Investment Performance Standard (GIPS). By achieving the GIPS Asset Management Compliance standard, Meristem Group has demonstrated its operational transparency and pursuit of best global practices in the management and reporting of the details of customers investment assets. In addition, the reported compliance status attained by Meristem places it in the ranks of some of the world’s top asset management firms. The epoch making event was marked by Meristem Securities Nigeria in conjunction with the Chartered Financial Analysts Institute, at GIPS compliance declaration ceremony in Lagos. Speaking at the occasion, Managing Director/ CFA of Meristem Wealth Management Limited, Mr Sulaimon Adedokun, said, “It is my pleasure to welcome you to this landmark event in the asset management history of Nigeria.” He explained that the Investment management industry revolves around developing frameworks for surpassing client investment expectations, a concept Meristem has coined as ‘customertocracy’. Adedokun stated that, GIPS provides wealth managers with a standardized methodology of performance measurement and reporting that is consistent with global practices of some of the best asset managers. According to him, GIPS makes it easy to compare the performance of asset management firms across the globe regardless of location whether they are in Lagos or London, Cairo or Cape-town, the metrics of performance are the same.“The decision to adopt GIPS is voluntary and establishes a universal benchmark by which corporate wealth managers can be trusted and verified, a status only

a handful of firms have attained globally”. He added. The Managing Director expounded more as he disclosed details of the journey towards GIPS and said that the trip was interesting but challenging and took all but two years from start to finish requiring dedication, commitment and determination on the part of staff and management. However, he declared that it was an achievement that the Meristem group was proud of, and commended the teamwork of the entire members of staff. In her remarks,Former President of the CFA Institute Nigeria and current member of the Nigeria Investment Promotions Council (NIPC) governing board, Mrs Sade Odunaiya congratulated Meristem Wealth Management for putting Nigeria on the global map as far as GIPS reporting standards was concerned. She explained that what the International Financial Reporting Standard (IFRS) is to the accounting profession and banking industry, GIPS is to the investment management sector. Odunaiya is delighted that Nigeria now has a firm that is in full compliance with GIPS. Also speaking, CFA and CEO of King Thrones Advisory services, Mr Akin Adeniyi, who is the GIPS consultant to Meristem Wealth Management said the objective was to produce very reliable statistics that allowed investors make objective and consistent comparison of performance at a global scale. He said the project with Meristem Wealth Management took two years to attain the GIPS compliance status and had commenced since January 11, 2017. Adeniyi commended the board and management of Meristem Wealth Management for their commitment to meeting the compliance status. He stressed that the GIPS compliance was a window to many opportunities for Meristem Wealth Management and its clients.

Ambassador of the Republic of Korea, Mr. Intae Lee at the official opening of a Seminar on the Operations and Regulations on Derivatives Market in Nigeria under the Knowledge Sharing Programme, KSP held at the SEC Head office Abuja in a handshake with top official of the Commission, while SEC Acting-Director, Ms Mary Uduk watches with admiration.

Economic Devt: Korea offers to collaborate with Nigeria

HE Republic of Korea has pledged to continue effective collaboration with Nigeria to ensure the country achieves its economic development goals. This was the submission of the Ambassador of the Republic of Korea, Mr. Intae Lee in a goodwill message at the official opening of a Seminar on the Operations and Regulations on Derivatives Market in Nigeria under the Knowledge Sharing Programme, KSP held at the Head office of the Securities and Exchange Commission, SEC in Abuja recently. The KSP which is on “Capacity Building on Operation and Regulation of Financial Derivatives Markets in Nigeria”, is based on the following topic areas: Development of Nigerian Derivatives Market, Operation, Surveillance, and Supervision on the Derivatives Market, Monitoring and Surveillance on Derivatives Market of Nigeria and Establishment of information and

Corporate Actions

ORPORATE actions are decisions taken by companies’ boards of directors or management teams, that could have an impact on the firms themselves or shareholders. Here is a review of corporate actions that took place last week and those expected this week. Abraaj: Share Reconstruction C and I Leasing Plc, in a notice sent to the NSE, stated that following the maturity of a $10 million convertible loan obtained from Abraaj (through the Aureos Africa Fund) the private equity firm had opted to convert the loan to equity. In anticipation of this, the company had opted for a share reconstruction. While C and I Leasing was silent on the shareholding structure, following the conversion, reports by Bloomberg suggest that Abraaj could end up with a 70percent stake in the firm. C and I Leasing will, however, em-

bark on an equity raise to dilute this. The firm also stated that a technical suspension to reconcile shareholdings, earlier billed to end sometime in December, would be lifted soon. However,some analysts have knocked the deal, due to the lack of transparency on the part of C and I Leasing Plc. MRS Oil Plc: New Managing Director MRS Oil Plc has announced the appointment of Mrs. Priscilla Thorpe-Apezteguia as Director and Managing Director (Acting) of the company, following the resignation of Mr Andrew Gbodume. Prior to her appointment, she was the Group Sales and Marketing Manager of MRS Oil and Gas Limited. NAHCO Aviance: Acquisition NAHCO Aviance has announced the acquisition of the

six percent stake in the firm, previously held by Lufthansa GMBH, by Godsmart Nigeria Limited. As a result of the transaction, Godsmart’s stake in the firm is now 26.95 percent, up from 16.7percent held last year. Multiverse: New Auditors Multiverse Mining and Exploration Plc has announced the appointment of Olukayode Aina and Co as its external auditors. The previous audit firm, Sola Oyetayo, and Co, had served 10 years and stepped down according to corporate governance rules. eTranzact EGM eTranzact International Plc will be holding an Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM) on the January 17, 2019 at Colonades Hotel, 21, Alfred Rewane Road, lkoyi, Lagos.The company intends to obtain shareholders’ approval to raise N7 billion either as equity, debt, or a mix of both.

Communications Technology (ICT) infrastructure for Financial Derivatives Market. The Ambassador said the ceremony envisages the bright future that the two great nations will continue to build together, particularly in the area of economic and developmental cooperation. With that vision in mind, he said Korea has abundant developmental knowledge and experiences to share with Nigeria. Intae, said, “The Knowledge Sharing Programme represents what Korea has to offer the world. Once a poverty-stricken-country, the Korean people have built one of the most thriving market economies. Korea now also boasts of the 11th largest economic growth country in the world.” According to him, through the KSP, Korea is going to share with Nigeria the recipes for the success of our derivatives market. Through this programme, I sincerely hope Nigeria to become the financial hub of the entire African continent, not just of the West Africa. Through the KSP, Korea is now offering the secrets behind our success to Nigeria so as to walk together the paths toward greater prosperity, affluence,

and success. He expressed confidence that the launching of the first KSP project will serve as a corner stone for the bolstered economic cooperation between the two countries in the future. In her remarks, Acting Director General of SEC, Mary Uduk, expressed appreciation to the government of the Republic of Korea on the programme, saying it will assist greatly in developing the derivatives market in Nigeria. Uduk said the country will not have a viable derivatives market without building the capacity of the regulator and other stakeholders, adding that the KSP will provide an opportunity to further develop the capital market in Nigeria. The Acting DG also disclosed that the Commission will welcome any collaboration with the Republic of Korea to drive to digitalize operations in the Commission and the market. She emphasized that the entire capital market is embracing financial technology. “And here at the SEC,we are working on automating our processes to improve our regulatory work and we are open to collaborations to make this happen”. She added.

Onyema recounts achievements, predicts volatility in equities market

HE Chief Executive Officer (NSE) of The Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE),, Mr. Oscar Onyema has disclosed that the Bourse engaged in corporate restructuring last year, leading to efficiency and innovation with the establishment of several new departments. In a press conference organized by The NSE to review activities in the market and economy in 2018, and expectations of market performance in 2019. Onyema said the Exchange made a lot of achievements in its strategic execution plan adding that 37 new roles were established and 13 of the positions were filled. During the year under review, the CEO said The Exchange launched the enterprise innovation hub to leverage emerging technologies to create smart products and services. On demutualization, he said the Bill was signed into law and assented to

by the president, stressing that the exchange is currently working on the final stages of the demutualization process. Onyema also revealed that The NSE has completed the required technological enhancements for the launch of the derivatives products, as Rule book has been created and is currently undergoing approval process alongside onboarding of dealing members. Others includes business development, as the NSE website was revamped to enhance analytics and ease of navigation, Market development: with the implementation of new equity market structure to dampen volatility and enable pricing efficiency during the open and close auctions as well as sustainability with the signing of memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Recycle Points limited .

The Oracle Today Wednesday January 23, 2019

MONEY Market

AfDB supports Nigeria’s African Trade Insurance membership with $14.12m Stories by KAYODE OGUNWALE

HE African Development Bank Group, through its trade finance operations, has approved a $14.12 million facility to support the Nigeria’s membership in the African Trade Insurance Agency (ATI). This is a critical and mandatory step to enable ATI commence its operations in Nigeria. Nigeria, as Africa’s largest economy, joins 14 other African countries that have already signed up to ATI membership. Once membership formalities in ATI are finalized, Nigeria could benefit from gross political and commercial risk insurance cover on total investments and trade amounting to over US$ 5 billion by 2020. The catalytic effect of using limited financial resources in this way is undoubtedly massive. The approved facility complements ongoing and planned interventions geared at building institutional capacity and improving the resilience of the Nigerian economy. Joining ATI will enable Nigeria to leverage its position to mobilize additional resources to finance trade, especially importation of essential goods such as medicines and communications equipment, to rehabilitate basic infrastructure and strengthen the country’s productive sector. ATI’s mandate is to provide medium to long term credit and political

risk insurance, as well as other risk mitigation products to its member countries and related public and private sector actors. These products directly encourage and facilitate foreign direct investment as well as local private sector investment in regional member countries and intra- and extraAfrican trade. ATI catalyzes private sector investments in infrastructure projects, thereby promoting economic integration of participating countries into regional markets. This financing aligns with four of the Bank’s High 5 priorities, namely: Light Up and Power Africa, Industrialize Africa, Feed Africa and Integrate Africa. As a trade finance facilitation initiative, this financing will support operations that are crosscutting and multi-sectoral in nature and will have an impact on agribusiness, infrastructure development, electricity generation, telecommunications and manufacturing. According to the Director of the Financial Sector Department, Stefan Nalletamby, “The Bank seeks to achieve its ambitious development mandate by working with and through other strategic partners, and where possible, by supporting the development of strong and viable African institutions such as ATI. This financing scales up the work of ATI by supporting the beneficiary RMCs to become members.”

2019: World Bank projects 2.2% growth for Nigeria’s GDP

IGERIA’S real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth will expand by 2.2 per cent in 2019, the World Bank has said in its annual Global Economic Prospects published on Wednesday, slightly upgrading the country’s projected growth rate from 2.1 per cent in June 2018. According to the World Bank, growth in sub-Saharan Africa would

Ecobank’s digital assets dedicated to MSMEs’ growth – MD

ANAGING Director of Ecobank Nigeria, Mr Patrick Akinwuntan, has reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to the use its wide and versatile digital capacity to transform the entire value chain for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Nigeria. This, according to him, would engender more activities in the sub sector leading to the overall growth of the economy. Akinwuntan disclosed that it was part of the overall strategy of the Ecobank Group to deploy its products with digital appeal to support business development. He listed some of these products to include Omnilite, EcobankPay. It should be recalled that Ecobank is also providing Xpresspoints – which is agency banking in your neighbourhood. “Omnilite is an Ecobank internet banking platform that allows entrepreneurs perform transactions, payments over the Internet through the Bank’s secure website. With Omni Lite, customers have easy access to their account(s) from anywhere in the world; Online real-time account monitoring facility; Convenience of conducting banking transactions from comfort of home/office; Secured online transactions; Easy Access to bank information and products; Effective, cheaper and easier way for our customers to communicate with the bank on a 24/7 basis”, he stated.

accelerate to 3.4 per cent in 2019, due to improved investment in large economies together with continued robust growth in non-resource intensive countries. “Per capita growth is forecast to remain well below the long-term average in many countries, yielding little progress in poverty reduction. “Growth in Nigeria is expected to rise to 2.2 per cent in 2019, assuming that oil production will recover and a slow improvement in private demand will constrain growth in the non-oil industrial sector. “Angola is forecast to grow 2.9 per cent in 2019 as the oil sector recovers as new oil fields come on stream and as reforms bolster the business environment. “South Africa is projected to accelerate modestly to a 1.3 per cent pace, amid constraints on domestic demand and limited government spending,” the bank said. On the risk to the region’s growth, the World Bank stated that escalated trade tensions between the United States and China could impact negatively on the region. “Faster than expected normalisation of advanced economy monetary policy could result in sharp reductions in capital inflows, higher financing costs and abrupt exchange-rate depreciation. “Increased reliance on foreign currency borrowing has heightened refinancing and interest rate risk in debtor countries,” the noted. It said domestic risks in particular remained elevated, that political uncertainty and a concurrent weakening of economic reforms could continue to weigh on the economic outlook in many countries. “In countries like Mozambique, Nigeria, and South Africa holding elections in 2019, domestic political considerations could undermine the commitments needed to rein in fiscal deficits, especially where public debt levels are high and rising.

•Mr. Adeyemi Cahdide-Johnson (SAN), Chairman, Nigeria Mortgage Refinance Company (NMRC); Mr. Bola Adeeko, Head, Shared Services Division, The Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) and Mr. Kehinde Ogundimu, Managing Director/ CEO, NMRC during a Closing Gong Ceremony in commemoration of the N11Billion 13.80% Series 2 Fixed Rate Bonds listed on the NSE n Lagos.

IFC, West African Stock Exchange partner on corporate governance

NTERNATIONAL Finance Corporation (IFC) and West Africa Regional Stock Exchange, Bourse Régionale des Valeurs Mobilières, have signed an agreement to cooperate toward improving corporate governance practices of listed companies. Under the agreement, IFC will help BRVM design, develop, draft and implement a Corporate Governance Code. Corporate governance practices among West African companies lag international standards. Among other issues, they lack corporate governance guidelines that could serve as a reference for companies to improve practices. IFC and BRVM seek to provide market participants with

a platform of governance principles and standards that would help them strengthen their practices in a progressive and sustainable way. Corporate governance codes elsewhere have served as a tool to improve practices. The implementation of a code in West Africa would lead to greater transparency and improve investor confidence that supports regional capital market development. Adamou Labara, IFC’s Acting Country Manager for Côte d’Ivoire, said “Through this partnership BRVM can leverage IFC’s global expertise in corporate governance to help African companies improve their access to capital.”

Dr. Edoh Kossi Amenounve, Managing Director of BRVM, said “This agreement with IFC demonstrates our commitment to adopt best practices. Our aim is to strengthen the capacity of our affiliated companies through the development and the implementation of the Corporate Governance Code and increase their access to financing.” IFC’s Corporate Governance program works to improve performance of African companies and increase market capacity to attract and retain investments. IFC has helped more than 11,000 companies in more than 30 countries to implement best practices in governance that enable them to have access to new funds estimated at more than $3.2 billion.

growth track and was not unmindful of the headwinds facing the political and economic environments. Sekibo stressed that the bank will continue to pursue its strategic aspiration of not only being stable but also being sustainable in earnings and profitability in its growth plan. “We are very optimistic that the Heritage Brand will continue to soar over the current economic tide through its collective efforts to remain an enduring institution,” he stated. Meanwhile, as its strategic growth to meet customers’ needs and revolutionalise the banking sector via its digital platform, the bank approved the upward review of daily transaction limits for Octopus transactions to N200, 000 for Heritage Bank registered users. The bank explained that other Banks registered users will be able to transact on the platform within limits assigned their debit cards by their respective Financial Institutions. To give a voice to this, Sekibo described Octopus as “the best opportunity to experience a true,

out-of-this world digital experience available across major platforms. Understand that this new adventure does everything differently!” According to him, the platform is an intelligent digital experience that combines digital transactions and a community lifestyle that empowers customers with the power to build their world and perform digital transactions how they want. However, on deepening its retail banking structure, he further explained that the bank has continued to set standard in the launching of ‘Corner Shop’ to cater for the need of traders and artisans at different locations across the country. According to him, the shop is aimed at giving the unbanked, especially in the rural areas the opportunity to enjoy financial services without the risk and stress of walking kilometres in order to visit a bank branch. Sekibo however, remarked that the bank was committed to deploying its resources towards the delivery of innovative banking solutions to its customers as well as create and transfer wealth to all its stakeholders.

Heritage Bank to deepen retail banking

ERITAGE Bank Plc has restated commitment through its growth strategy to deepen its full stream retail banking franchise to match the rapidly changing needs of its customer, as well give the unbanked, especially in the rural areas the opportunity to enjoy seamless financial services. The MD/CEO of Heritage Bank, Ifie Sekibo, made this known yesterday in a statement made available to the media, whilst stating that the bank will continue to grow by appealing to key client segments especially in the retail space and also focus on under-penetrated banking segments while building loyalty amongst the bank’s existing customer base. According to Sekibo, one of the ambitions of the institution in the 2019 financial year is to emerge as a systemic important bank in the Nigerian banking industry, which remains its underlying corporate growth strategy. The bank’s helmsman said Heritage Bank was committed to building an enduring and resilient banking franchise in the country, affirming that the bank was on a

The Oracle Today Wednesday January 23, 2019

NEWS Extra A’Ibom PDP kicks-off guber campaigns From Ini Billie, Uyo

he Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Akwa Ibom State will kick off its gubernatorial campaigns on Wednesday (today). State Chairman of the party, Mr Paul Ekpo said on Tuesday in Uyo that the party was emboldened by the achievements of Governor Udom Emmanuel in the state to solicit for the votes of the people in the forthcoming elections. He said evidences abound in the state that the Akwa Ibom people made the right choice in massively voting for and supporting the government of Emmanuel. He revealed that the State government has awarded interest free loans worth over N2billion to market men and women in the state, adding that the party was emboldened by the achievements of the governor to take him around the state to solicit for the vote of the Akwa Ibom people in the forthcoming elections. He stated that the party had given out over N10billion as seed capital to Akwa Ibom people to cultivate and grow an entrepreneurship spirit among them. He added that 324 men and women have been trained in different skills and that the party intends to double the effort before June 2020. He said, “That decision by Akwa Ibom people to elect Udom Emmanuel as governor of our dear state has birthed no fewer than 13 industries, remodelled, reconstructed, and re-equipped many general hospitals. “Granted over N2billion interest free loans to market men and women, constructed over 1,700 kilometres of well networked roads and bridges, undertaken massive renovation of schools, stimulation of sports development. “As a political party, we have given out over N10 billion in prize money as seed capital or business support funds to Akwa Ibom people who are entrepreneurs irrespective of partisan leanings or affiliation. “We have trained no fewer than 324 men and women in different viable and sought-after skills like carpentery, finger foods, make up, nylon production, interior decoration, tie and dye, paint making among others. We hope to double this figure before June next year”. Ekpo called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), to remain unbiased as any form of favoritism to any political party would kill the nation’s democracy. He urged all political parties to conduct their campaigns in a peaceful manner and desist from acts that could threaten the current peace of the state, adding that the flag-off of the campaign will be held at the Uyo Township stadium, followed by the commencement of tour across the 31 local government areas of the state.

Rivers Assembly moves revamp health sector, penalise quarks R ivers House of Assembly says it is determined to standardise the state health sector through ensuring appropriate health care delivery and penalising operators of substandard healthcare facilities. Chairman, House Committee on Health, Mr Adonye Diri, expressed the determination, during a public hearing on Rivers State Health care Facilities Registration Bill 2018 in Port Harcourt on Tuesday Diri, representing Opobo-Nkoro Constituency, said the bill when passed would be in the best interest of Rivers people because it would reduce the activities of quacks in the health sector. “The essence of the bill when passed is to make sure that healthcare facilities are managed by

trained operators and professionals to give our people the services that they need. It will also check the entry of quacks into the healthcare business as you know it is something that concerns the lives of people. “Tough times now await illegal operators of health facilities and quacks in the profession as the state assembly is determined to support the governor’s decision to clamp down on them,” he said. The Speaker, Ikunyi-awaji Ibani, in his opening address read by Mr Martin Amaewhule (PDP), Obio/ Akpor Constituency 1, expressed optimism that participants would ensure fruitful deliberations to restore the sector. Ibani said the bill, when passed,

would sanitise healthcare delivery system in the state. The public hearing was attended by representatives from the state Ministries of Health and Justice as well as other stakeholders in the health sector who presented relevant papers. National President, Association of General Private Nursing Practitioners, Dr Joseph Olawale, said that the bill when passed would give room for enforcement of penalties to offenders of healthcare operational laws. “The bill seeks to enforce a law that even chemists and patent medical stores must have their operational certificates. It is abnormal for persons and groups or religious bodies to embark on free medical

• Akwa Ibom State Governor, Mr. Udom Emmanuel, laying the wreath today 15th January, 2019 in honour of our fallen heroes

Strikes have lowered education quality -- Ikonne, ABSU VC From BONIFACE OKORO, Umuahia

ice Chancellor of Abia State University, Uturu (ABSU), Prof. Uche Ikonne, has urged the Federal Government and universitybased unions to set up a regulatory mechanism that would address the issue of staff welfare in order to prevent workers from embarking on strike. Ikonne lamented that strikes have greatly affected the quality of education. Ikonne expressed this view at the Senate Chamber in Uturu, Monday, during a Pre-Convocation Press Briefing to kick off activities marking the 26th convocation ceremony of the institution. 4, 153 students would graduate from the institution on Saturday, January 19, 2019, the VC disclosed. On the harmful effects of strikes on Nigeria’s education system, Ikonne noted that incessant strikes have done unimaginable harm to the quality of education in the country, adding that it disrupts flow of thought and research activities. He suggested that all stakeholders should devise a scientific means of eradicating strikes rather than allowing it to disrupt academic activities. “I wish there could be self-regulatory mechanism which the unions and federal government can set up

that addresses staff welfare other than allowing unions to go on strike. It is very harmful to our educational system,” he said, advising the unions to find scientific methods of making their demands without disrupting academic activities. The VC also advised the federal government to be more alive to promoting tertiary education and make promises that are sustainable, not just for immediate solution to problems. Ikonne said ABSU was flourishing because it has run three uninterrupted academic years. “Luckily for us, we have run three uninterrupted academic years and this has accounted for the quality of education we are giving here; this has accounted for higher patronage by JAMB candidates because people are looking for where they would graduate within the stipulated academic calendars of their courses. That is the beauty of the academic system,” he said. He identified strikes as the major reason why some parents were sending their children/wards to foreign and private universities, not necessarily because of better facilities. He announced that Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) has approved and provided funding for 38 institutional-based research topics

while the National Research Fund has provided N37 million for another research topic, thus making the institution a beehive of research activities. Ikonne declared that he has not borrowed a dime from any financial institution since he assumed office, adding that what has kept the university going was prudent management of available resources. Of the 4, 153 students that would be graduating this Saturday, 18 made First Class; 551 had Second Class (Upper Credit) 2, 532 got Second Class (Lower Credit) while 365 had Third Class and seven got Passes. Also, 203 students of Medicine, Surgery and Optometry, 52 Post –Graduate and 115 Ph.D students would be graduating. According to the Vice Chancellor, foremost Ngwa traditional monarch, Eze Bernard Enweremadu and a former Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Azubuike Ihejirika, would bag the university’s honorary doctorate degree awards. Also, the Tor Tiv, His Royal Majesty, Prof. James Anyatse would be installed as the new ABSU Chancellor. He commended the Visitor to the University and Governor of the state, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu for teaching students of ABSU free of charge; and for the support he was giving to the institution.

missions without due permission by the state Ministry of Health. “The essence is to ensure that whether it is free or paid for, professional and ethical standards are upheld in dispensing healthcare to members of the public,” he said. Rivers Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr Zacchaeus Adangor, represented by Mr Somiete Nkotaria, said the bill, if passed, would ensure adequate standard and management of healthcare facilities in the state.

General Poll: INEC delivers 4, 637 ballot boxes in Edo

do office of the Independent National Electoral commission (INEC), says it has taken delivery of 4, 637 ballot boxes ahead of the forthcoming general election. State INEC Administrative Secretary, Mr Richard Ntui, said this at an interactive forum with religious leaders in Benin on Tuesday. Ntui who briefed the religious leaders on the preparations for the general election, said more ballot boxes were being expected in the state. He said INEC had constituted a committee to recruit ad hoc staff for the election, adding that the action was to ensure transparency in the recruitment process. “INEC has no enough staff to conduct the election, hence the need for ad hoc staff.We are going to recruit them from federal establishments and tertiary institutions in the state. There are 91 registered political parties in the country. “Twenty six of them conducted primaries and are fielding candidates for various positions in the state,” he said. INEC National Commissioner in charge of Edo, Bayelsa and Rivers, Mrs May Agbamuche-Mbu, said the forum was to formally acquaint religious leaders on the level of preparation for the general election. “The commission is aware of your support through voters’ education which you did through messages during worship session. This has great influence on your followers. For this we say thank you for making our work lighter,” she said. State chairman, Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, Malam Yusuf Bako, however, expressed concern over abuse of social media by some Nigerians. “The social media is a major challenge we are facing now as a nation. We are using it to destroy ourselves, so we want you to find ways to check the challenge,” Bako said. He urged the public to verify information from the social media to prevent the spread of fake news before, during and after the election. “We assure you that we are going to convey our discussions here to the Muslim community to ensure successful election,” he said. State secretary of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Mr Humphrey Iriabe, said the association would mobilise its members to participate actively in the election. “We have concluded plans to meet with all our youths to tell them how important they are to the growth of the nation and also to tell them to prepare themselves for leadership positions in future. We will continue to preach against electoral violence,” Iriabe said.

The Oracle Today Wednesday January 23, 2019

Love and Living

...With Ireto Temofeh

MODEL OF THE WEEK

LOVE NEWS

Mary J. Blige displays her VERY youthful figure in pink bikini during her 48th birthday in Mexico

er prosperous music career spans over three decades, releasing a whopping 13 studio albums in the process. And Mary J. Blige sent temperatures soaring as she shared a series of her scenic getaway in Los Cabos, , on Saturday, in celebration of her 48th birthday. The Family Affair hitmaker set pulses racing as she exhibited her incredibly youthful-looking physique in a pink animal print two-piece. Displaying her washboard abs and toned figure, the singer posed up a storm in her skimpy ensemble, which featured a plunging halterneck top and matching bikini briefs. Mary ensured all eyes were her while striking a series of sultry poses on a rock, and captioned captioned her images: ‘LIVING MY BEST F*****’ LIFE! ‘. The No More Drama songstress caught the eye with her striking accessories as she donned massive gold hooped earrings and protected her eyes from the sun in a pair of bedazzled frames. Turning heads with her bold display, Mary wore her voluminous blonde tresses in a half up half down style and showed off her radiant complexion with minimal make-up. In 2017, Mary released her first album in three years, Strength of a Woman, which climbed to number three on the US Billboard 200 albums chart - making it her highest

charting release in nearly a decade. During an interview with The Guardian at the time, the songstress discussed regaining her life after her divorce from former manager Martin ‘Kendu’ Isaacs. ‘When it comes to music now, I know my gut is great. That’s what I lost, my gut and my gift. But I got it back. It’s back now’, she explained. Mary split from her husband of 12 years, Kendu, in 2016, with their divorce being finalised in June last year. Reflecting on her shock split, the singer said at Essence Fest 2016: ‘The journey that got us here is that every woman can relate to, a woman out there fighting for her marriage. ‘When I first started writing my album, I was fighting for my marriage. There were a lot of layers to me peeled back for this marriage. I really thought I did [find] the love of my life. ‘Being Mary J. Blige the celebrity is secondary and I’m a human being first and I suffer just like everyone else. Revealing she turned to prayer, the New Yorker added: ‘I believe that I wasn’t given this career or this job as a singer or this gift from God to sit down and say, “I’m going to suffer from the world in silence and die.” And it’s therapeutic for me as well. So, you know, that’s why.’

Name: Sonia Tel: 08027648715. • If you want to be our next ORACLE GIRL, e-mail or forward your photos/data to ireto007@yahoo.com. Call 07031028714.

ODD NEWS

Research shows that being lovesick is a real thing for women

hen women fall in love, they experience physiological changes similar to those seen in people fighting a virus, research shows. A new romance can cause women to produce a specific kind of protein typically used to combat infection - suggesting being ‘love sick’ is more than just an emotion. Scientists at the University of California in Los Angeles, who carried out the research, suggest these changes mean love could one day be ‘measured’. The team took blood samples from 47 women over the course of a two-year period as they entered new romantic relationships. Their aim was to monitor how falling and being in love affects genes governing the immune system.

Researchers found that new love activates genes to produce interferon, which is a protein usually released to combat viruses. ‘New romantic love is accompanied not only by psychological changes, but physiological changes as well,’ scientists noted in the report, in the journal Psychoneuroendocrinology. The report continued: ‘These findings are consistent with a selective up-regulation of innate immune responses to viral infections... and provide insight into the immuno-regulatory correlates of one of the keystone experiences in human life. The study set out to determine the impact romantic love has on the human genetic function. Findings suggested that it may also be possible to test to see

if people really are in love and whether that emotion gradually wades over a period of time. ‘Some research suggests that psychological changes associated with romantic love may be attenuated as the relationship matures,’ the experts said. ‘The biological correlates of love might abate with the maturation of a longer-term more stable mate bond.’ In those cases where the flame had started to burn out, researchers found evidence of women’s interferon levels decreasing. ‘Falling out of love was associated with a reduction in interferon-related gene expression,’ the researchers found. Scientists are yet to examine whether the experience is the same for men.

ROMANTIC JOKE BULLETPROOF JACKET

My husband and I couldn’t decide which jacket to buy our granddaughter, so we asked the young salesman. “If you were buying a jacket for your girlfriend,” I said, “what would you get?” “A bulletproof one,” he said. “I’m married.”

The Oracle Today Wednesday January 23, 2019

True Confession

His sickness ruined all our plans and dreams “T

here’s no mountain too high for our love to climb, and no river too deep for our love to cross. Our kisses are like whispers in the wind. They are the sweet things that God first created.” These were the words Alexander always said to me before the ugly incident that marred our wedding and left me devastated. He had even written the sweetest poem in the world for me. And it went thus: Bees use our sweet words to make honey, Birds borrow our faith as wings to fly, Lions derive their strength from our unconquerable hearts, We lend the colors of our love to rainbows; That’s why we deserve to be together forever. I don’t really know how to tell you my story, because it is the story of a love that defies all foes and overcomes all odds. Love, to me, is the sweetest thing on earth. It is food to the soul and serves as inspiration to the spirit to rise and shine. It is true that love reawakens our spirits and makes us aware of the innermost longings that have been there all along in our hearts, but of which our minds were too dull to notice. My name is Gloria and I’m proud to say that the love of Alexander 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 Alexander shared. Don’t look down on me because my fiancé is now a mad man, because I’m determined to stand by him till the end. He is my dream come true, and I’m not ready to let go of that dream, no matter what happens. Besides, our love is all I’ve got left to cherish in my life. It all began 10 years ago while I was still in secondary school. I was staying with my aunt 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 12, 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 three boys and 3 girls. I was gladly introduced to all her children who welcomed me with open arms. The names of her three boys were Alexander, Ikenna and Chukwuma, while the girls were Chidinma, Chioma and Ugonma. They instantly regarded me as one of their own from the moment I set foot in the house, and I had no cause to feel homesick or miss my aunt in Lagos. Alexander was the first son of the family and he showed it in the way he always tried to act like a man even though we were all still very young. He was 16, my elder by four years. And he had just finished writing his G.C.E. exams and was in a hurry to gain admission into a federal university where he hoped to study medicine. Alexander was very fond of me during the time I spent holidaying with his family because I seemed to enjoy some of the things he enjoyed doing. Alexander enjoyed playing lawn tennis and table tennis whenever he was less busy, and I was also passionate about both games. So, everyday, after we had had our lunch, he would drag me outside to play table tennis with him. Sometimes I defeated him in the game but most of the time he ended up being the winner, maybe because he was a boy. When we got back indoors, Alexander would force me to play a game of Ludo or Snake-and-Ladder with him. I usually defeated him in the ludo game because I was a specialist in ludo. Ludo was the only game I played with my aunt back in lagos because she loved it so much. So I had gradually become more and more skillful in

Ludo, and it was very difficult for anyone to defeat me in the game. I was also very good at chess. That was one game that I and Alexander contended over. We competed seriously to see who would emerge as the regular winner, but it was very hard to tell, because if he won today, I would win tomorrow. We worked our brains out at every game of chess we played and whoever won the day’s game knew that victory was achieved after a long hard fight. The most interesting part of my holiday with Alexander and his family was that Alexander enjoyed cooking like me. So, we would cook coconut rice together on weekends and then eat together from the same plate. Alexander’s mother seemed pleased as we grew more and more fond of each other, and when the holiday ended and it was time for me to return to Lagos, she encouraged us to keep in touch by writing letters regularly to each other. Back in Lagos, I missed Alexander so much. Whenever I felt lonely, I would pick my pen and paper and write a long letter to him. And three or four weeks later, I would receive his reply through the post. At first, our letters of friendship were very innocent, but with time, our long letters of friendship and innocence grew to become long and passionate love letters. In some of my letters, I would ask Alexander if he had kissed any girl or whether he’d ever taken any girl to bed. I was still a virgin then, but I had become a teenager. My breasts had developed and I was beginning to evolve into a real woman with desires for a man. I read a lot of romance magazines and on my bed at night

I would find myself lusting for Alexander. No man had ever got between my thighs and so I wondered how it would feel if Alexander undressed me and put his manhood between my thighs. I yearned for the day I would see him again, and the day that he would make me feel like a real woman and fulfill all my expectations. The day eventually came after I received a letter from Alexander stating that he was coming to Lagos to begin a new job at a factory where he had applied for employment. He invited me to his office at Agbara and when I got there and set my eyes on Alexander again, I noticed that he had now become a big boy. He now had a beard and a hairy chest, and his voice had now become deeper than ever. “You’ve changed a lot, my love,” I said to him. “You too have changed,” he retorted. “You now have breasts.” We were so happy at seeing each other again that we hugged and kissed and looked each other over to see how much each of us had grown or changed. He asked me to wait at the reception till he closed for the day. He told me that he was staying at a hotel pending when he would get accommodation in Lagos. So I accompanied him to the hotel. In Alexander’s hotel room, we undressed to take our baths together. In the bath tub we soaped and scrubbed each other’s bodies. We began to caress each other and then we did it right there in the bath tub. Alexander proposed to me right there in his hotel room and I agreed to marry him. He introduced me to all his friends as his

bride, but his best friend, Tunde, tried to discourage him from marrying me by telling him that I was from a poor family and would steal all his money and run away. The truth was that Tunde had tried to befriend me behind Alexander’s back, but I had snubbed him repeatedly. Alexander and I picked a date for our wedding and we looked forward to that day when we would become husband and wife. Our wedding was supposed to take place last Saturday at a Pentecostal church in Lagos, but unfortunately, Alexander started acting funny right from the moment he woke up from sleep that day. First, he started to say incomprehensible things. Next, he tore his pajamas and ran out of the house naked. I was shocked and screamed at the top of my voice, and his brothers quickly got hold of him and rushed him to a private hospital. It was at the private hospital that it dawned on me that my fiancé had run mad on our wedding day when the doctor on duty referred him to a psychiatric hospital. Alexander is still in the psychiatric hospital in Lagos and our wedding has been postponed indefinitely. But Tunde, his best friend, is now asking me to marry him and dump Alexander. I’ve been hearing rumours that Tunde used black magic to make my fiancé mad so that he can marry me, but I have vowed never to let Tunde succeed in his evil plans. His sickness ruined all our plans and dreams. However, I will stand by my fiancé, Alexander, till the end. I’m determined not to get married until he regains his senses. Do you have a comment on this story? Call 07031028714.

The Oracle Today Wednesday January 23, 2019

Relationships and Love Advice

He beats me anytime, anywhere

Love Search Women seeking relationship/ marriage

Chiommy, very tall, fair, sexy, hippy, busty, needs a sugar daddy who will take good care of her and she will satisfy him very well. 09028379398. Chinyere, 35, dark, single mum, humble, works, seeks a hardworking man from 38 years and above for marriage. 09038028331. Viky, 52, widow, working, Igbo, chocolate, average height, wants to get connected to a man of 53-60 years (not a divorcee) from any tribe. 08036309809. Humble, 40, needs a sponsor in her theology school. 09026452405. 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. Lora, graduate, works, HIV Positive, based in Jos, wants a HIV positive man of 35-40 years for marriage. 08090925014. A single mother needs a responsible man for a relationship. 08140599563.

Dear Love Doctor, I am currently dating a man who has promised to marry me. But the problem I have been facing with him is that he beats me up anytime and anywhere. He can’t control himself when he is angry and nobody can control him. There was even a day he started beating me up in a bank premises and the security had to ask us to leave. I don’t

know if I should still go ahead and marry him by December when he wants us to wed, because I’m afraid that he might end up killing me if I marry him. But I love him. What should I do? From Nike

Love Doctor’s Advice: Dear Nike,

ou’re definitely in an abusive relationship and I would not advise you to marry anybody who abuses you. Did you hear of the Naizi girl that was murdered in South Africa? She was a Nigerian student in a South African university. It’s such a tragedy that it was her

boyfriend of three years who is being accused of the murder, because Naizi’s friends said the boy had been abusing her. This is why I keep asking people to walk away from abusive relationships. It doesn’t pay. It is not love. An abusive relationship will never bring you anything good.

A girl is dead and all her dreams and ambitions are all gone and her family are now left to mourn. Where is the love now? Please leave that abusive relationship now. Your life is more important than anything else.

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!

E-Mail: ireto007@yahoo.com Go to foodstuffs.com.ng. Call Love Doctor: 07031028714, 08131161840.

Men seeking relationship/ marriage Uche, a graduate in Lagos, needs a kind woman or man to help him in his new business. 08131161840. Divine, 36, wants a beautiful, highly educated, tall, fair, working class lady from 25-30 years for marriage. 09054199030. Diamond Prince, 28, living in Lagos, needs a sugar mummy. 07069498904. Emmy needs a mature lady or widow in Lagos for companionship. 08077821830. Godspower, 33, tall, from Kogi, based in Abuja, wants a sugar mummy from 40 years and above based in Abuja, to satisfy her very well. 0810069625, 07018735547. Emeka, 54, in Lagos, needs an educated woman between 32-35 years for a wife. 08118482541.

The Oracle Today Wednesday January 23, 2019

It happened to me:

here is no better private investigator than a woman with Internet access and a curiosity. I can let you know if your boyfriend is cheating, find the girl he dated in college, and figure out every picture your love interest has liked on Facebook in the past fortnight. Serious q: is the CIA hiring? I do all sorts of online stalking. My typical daily activities as a single woman include: Lurking my crush’s Facebook Creeping his Instagram Memorizing his Twitter feed Creating a relationship with him in my head What I’m trying to say is I consider online stalking to be my full time day job, and sometimes I may accidentally, unintentionally, woopsie-daisily bring these behaviors into my relationships. It paid off though, when dating my ex-boyfriend, who for the sake of this article I will call Demetrius (because why not?). A psychic once told me I needed to be more aware of red flags in my dealings with men. Maybe she was talking about the time Demetrius told me there wasn’t a title that could define his love for me. Or maybe she was referring to the mysterious way his phone seemed to die on nights we’d spend apart. Any way you looked at it, Demetrius was bad. He introduced me to his friends as “baby girl” instead of his girlfriend. He was a blackout drinker. He was constantly receiving texts from other women who he alleged were “just his friends,” even though they were all at midnight asking him to come over. I always knew Demetrius was up to no good, but questions only got me long-winded answers and bizarre excuses. Eventually I chose to look the other way, for reasons that could make up another article in and of itself -- like low self-esteem and abandonment issues -- to name a few. Until one day I finally woke up certain everything had finally changed for the better. “Do you know what day it is today?” he asked. Yes, I did. It was my birthday. To be quite honest, I was going to be really surprised if he had remembered. Demetrius pulled out a collection of brightly colored balloons from behind his back and told me in his very best Oprah voice that: “WE’RE TAKING A SURPRISE TRIP TO DISNEYLAND!” I couldn’t be more excited -- or shocked. We NEVER did things like this. It was completely out of character for him (his version of romance was dining in at McDonalds). Something was up. What did he feel guilty for? Then he threw another curveball my way: “Alison, babe, I’m going to go get you breakfast in bed.” And so, the love of my life, because we all love the men who are the worst for us, went to my favorite Mexican restaurant to get me Huevos Rancheros.

‘I Found out that my Ex was cheating through a sex tape’

As I waited patiently for my meal, excited to finally be treated like a Queen on my birthday, I decided to hop on the computer to check out normal things like the weather and which rides might be closed at Disneyland that day. As I turned on the computer (a PC desktop, red flag one), I got a sinking feeling in my stomach. I couldn’t explain it as anything other than women’s intuition, but something inside me told me to snoop. That’s when I saw a folder on his desktop marked “Private.” He might as well be asking for it. I double clicked. There was a single video inside. I clicked again. And then I was subjected to a onehour porn of my boyfriend having sex with another girl. I watched the entire thing. Three times. The first time I watched, I fast-forwarded through. Was this an old video with an ex-girlfriend or a weird, experimental one-night stand? No, it wasn’t. Demetrius had only moved into his apartment a few months prior, and there he was. Having doggy style sex with a girl who wasn’t me in his bed, on camera. The apartment-warming present I had given him, a Tupac Poster, hung in the background. I watched it a second time to see who the girl was. Was it that bartender he was always flirting with? That weird girl he always claimed was “just like one of the guys?” I’d watch and pause, watch and pause, putting my face a few centimeters away

from the computer screen to examine his homemade video. I watched his hands caress this stranger’s body, pull her mess of brown hair, watched them as they rolled around the bed I slept in almost every night. It was the young, flirty coworker he was always texting with, a skinny brunette, the Veronica to my Betty. I then watched the video a third time for details. Was the sex romantic? Was it passionate? Was it clumsy, like two people discovering one another for the first time? Had this happened before? What positions were they in? Did they have chemistry? Did he touch her like he touched me? Did she look good naked? Did he use protection? Since when did he shave?! When I heard the door open, I turned off the computer and leapt into bed, pretending nothing had happened. I felt physically ill, comatose, unable to process what I had just seen so I pretended I had seen nothing at all. I knew what I had to do. I just wasn’t able to do it yet. I still went to Disneyland that day, because I really love Disneyland and no one in their right mind should turn down a free trip to the happiest place on earth. But I ordered rounds of churros like shots at a bar, and made Demetrius buy me three different Buzz Lightyear sweatshirts, a princess hat, and a collectible pin, even though Alison was spelled with two L’s. I slept our entire ride home, and

broke up with him when we got back to his apartment. His response: he had made a mistake and didn’t realize his Skype camera was on and recording. Men, AMIRITE? I’m not going to lie, that breakup was emotionally damaging. I slipped in to a deep depression. I lost 15lbs. For months, I couldn’t close my eyes without replaying the footage of my ex having sex, fun, wild, exciting sex, with another woman. Throughout the day I’d have blinding flashbacks of his fingers running through her hair that would stop me in my tracks. I couldn’t sleep, I developed insomnia, and I certainly lost faith in both men and in relationships. It has taken a solid two years of introspection to feel ready for an honest and healthy relationship that can be built on a foundation of trust, respect, and friendship. One where I won’t snoop. One where I wont have to. Was this all my payback for snooping? Maybe. But I had a hunch that something was up, and when I investigated, I was right. So ladies and gentlemen, trust your gut. If something feels wrong, it probably is. There’s no need to wait several years driving yourself crazy to find out for sure. Snooping might find you the answers you’re looking for, but it also lowers your self-worth, self-respect, and makes you the crazy person and the bad guy. So don’t wait for a psychic to tell you to be aware of red flags. And don’t wait until you find a sex tape to break up with your cheating boyfriend. We have instincts for a reason.

The Oracle Today Wednesday January 23, 2019

The Law and You

With Barr. Ken Akpom 08162016410

Constitutionality of punishment in law part I P unishment is destined by the creator from inception of creation of the world. In the case of Adam and Eve, God imposed punishment on them for their sins. God even said that the wages of sin is death and the soul that sinneth should die. However, the argument will be that can man be as omnipotent and enabled to determine one who truly sins as to impose death on them? At times, some innocent persons may be sentenced to death unjustifiably but according to the established ways of determining the wrongs of a person by the law of the land. You need not blame the judges because it is what the other arms of the judiciary fed them with as done by those people and which violates the principles and laws of the land that they base their judgments on. However, it is my desire that the judges should critically probe into the charges before condemning an accused and the other arms of the law enforcement agents should be honest and not selfish in taking a suspect to court for an allegation they know to be wrongly reported and which has an ultimate end of death. Remember, after here there is judgment by God.

WHAT IS PUNISHMENT? As it is with all law terms, there is no definition that is generally accepted in law, so there are usually various definitions for a single term and none might be termed as wrong. This is also applicable to the term punishment. Black Law Dictionary defines it as any fine, penalty or confinement inflicted upon a person by the authority of the law and the judgment and sentence of a court for some crime or offence committed by him or for his omission of a duty enjoined by law. Capital punishment has been defined as execution as a punishment for a person convicted of committing a crime, or a legal infliction of death as a penalty for violating criminal law. There are other definitions but I would like to limit this work to the ones given above to avoid ambiguity. Capital punishment is a well-known, controversial and universal concept. Among all the issues that criminal punishment raises, none has been the subject of greater public controversy as death penalty. Death penalty is a constitutionally permissible form of punishment in Nigeria. CONCEPTUAL CLARIFICATIONS The phrase ‘Death Penalty’ is otherwise known as ‘Capital Punishment’. Juristic opinion on the meaning of capital punishment is many and varies. The term ‘capital’ derived from the Latin CAPUT, used by the Romans to refer variously to the head, the life or the civil rights of an individual. Capital punishment, thus, implies the idea of chief, principal or extreme penalty. Again, capital punishment is the execution of a criminal pursuant to a sentence of death imposed by competent court. Simply put, “death penalty is the legal possibility of execution”. The Oxford Reference Concise Dictionary of Law defines capital punishment as “death imposed as a punishment for crime”. It has also been defined as execution as a punishment for a person convicted of committing a crime, or a legal infliction of death as a penalty for violating criminal law. It refers to the execution of a criminal under sentence imposed by competent public authority. In other words, it is the legal infliction of death penalty by the state on a convicted criminal, for an injurious crime, after due process of law. Capital punishment has also been described as the prescribed treatment meted to an offender who has been adjudged guilty of a capital offence. It is the supreme sacrifice paid by an offender who has been adjudged guilty of a capital offence by a court of competent jurisdiction. Simply put, death penalty is a sentence of death, mostly for the commission of serious offences. It is a non-institutional disposition method of treatment of an offender, and it is principally premised on the enological theories of deterrence, elimination and

retribution. Lastly, capital punishment is the most extreme form of punishment. HISTORICAL DEVELOPMENT OF DEATH PENALTY IN NIGERIA Capital punishment is a well-known controversial and universal concept of punishment or death penalty is as old as society itself. Death penalty has been used in almost every part of the globe as a form of punishment for certain well defined crimes. The death penalty has been used from earliest times, and by different societies the world over, as a means of punishing various types of proscribed conduct, capital punishment “for heinous crimes has existed all through the history of mankind long before the creation of court system. As civilization progressed, different societies incorporated capital punishment into their legal codes”. Nigeria customary law traditionally recognized the death penalty as an appropriate way of eliminating offenders who were dangerous to the community. With the advent of British rule, the consequent abolition of customary criminal and penal codes, capital crimes were reduced to include murder, treachery, treason and participating in a trial resulting in death. The military government in power from 1966 to 1979 added a number of crimes punishable by death. These additions include armed robbery, setting fire to public building, ships or aircraft, dealing in Indian hemp and sabotaging the production and distribution of petroleum products, importing and exporting mineral oil without authority, dealing with cocaine and counterfeiting bank notes or coins. Today Nigeria Federal law prescribes the death penalty only for treason, homicide and armed robbery. Particularly under Nigeria criminal law various offences are punishable by death across the Federation including murder, treason and treachery, conspiracy to commit treason, directing and controlling or presiding at an unlawful trial by ordeal which results in death. Most recently, kidnapping has been added as a capital crime in Abia, Imo and Akwa Ibom States. The introduction of Sharia-based criminal law in some states in Northern Nigeria has also widened the number of capital offences to include adultery, sodomy, lesbianism and rape. MODES OF EXECUTING CAPITAL PUNISHMENT IN NIGERIA Execution of the death penalty in Nigeria is usually in two ways; hanging and shooting or firing squad. These modes will now be considered seriatim.

HANGING This is the prescribed mode of execution in Nigeria by Section 37(2) and 375 of Criminal Procedure Act, and Section 273 of the Criminal Procedure Code. The procedure for execution by hanging is as follows, prior to any execution, inmate may be weighed the day before the execution, and a rehearsal is done using a sandbag of the same weight as the prisoner. This is to determine the length of ‘drop’ necessary to ensure a quick death. If the roper is too long, the inmate may be decapitated, and if it’s too short, the strangulation can take as long as 45 minutes. The rope which should be ¾ inch to ¼ inch in diameter must be boiled and stretched to eliminate spring or coiling. The knot is lubricated with wax and soap to ensure a smooth sliding action. Immediately before the execution, the prisoner’s hands and legs are secured, he is blindfolded, and the noose is placed around the neck with a knot behind the left ear. The execution takes place when a tap door is opened and the prisoner falls through. The prisoner’s weight causes a rapid fracture dislocation of the neck; however, instant death hardly occurs. SHOOTING OR FIRING SQUAD This method was very much in use in Nigeria, especially during military rule. On the 22nd of July, 1995, an execution was carried out on 43 convicted armed robbers at the Kirikiri Maximum Security Prison, Lagos before a hushed crowd of about 1000 people. It was the largest number of executions in one day in Nigeria for decades. The prisoners were tied to stakes at the Kirikiri shooting range before a twelve (12) man firing squad of soldiers marched in from behind the prison walls and opened fire on them. The soldiers dressed in camouflage, had black shoe polish on their faces. They used semi-automatic weapons in executing the convicts. The execution started at 9:30am and ended at 11:00am. Three (3) doctors certified the death; an Irish Roman Catholic Priest and a Moslem Imam witnessed it. This method is mainly used for the execution of armed robbers. By this method of execution, the inmate is typically bound to a stake with leather straps across his waist and head in front of an oval shaped canvas wall, a black hood may be pulled over the inmate’s head, and the firing squad about twenty (20) feet away aims at the heart and continues shooting until death is ascertained. At least one doctor is usually present to examine the convict and be sure of his death. A pastor or imam is usually permitted to pray with the convicts before their execution.

• 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

The Oracle Today Wednesday January 23, 2019

ENTERTAINMENT

With Douglas Omoyooma

Ini Edo to Nigerian youths: Don’t allow yourselves to be used by politicians Frontline actress and moviemaker, Ini Edo has called on Nigerians I youths to resist being used by politicians to destabilise the country as n a chat with The Oracle Today, Ini Edo who has starred on over a hundred Nollywood movies said: “Stay safe and if you must go out to vote, vote right and vote wise. Stay out of trouble, don’t allow yourself to be used by any politician. Avoid anything that can bring you pains and discomfort.” One of Nollywood’s most sought-after actresses, Ini Edo began her career in 2000 and has featured in more than 100 movies. The screen goddess, who’s currently the Special Assistant to Akwa Ibom State Governor on Culture and Tourism is also a pioneer of sorts. Among others, she was one of the first actresses to go into movie production having established a thriving acting career and she also played a role in the discovery of then up-and coming actors and actresses, Brian Okwara, Adesua Etomi and Blossom Chukwujekwu. Ini Edo recalled: “I think I’m one of the first actresses to go into movie producing; I think I am also one of the first actors who put their films in the cinema. I did ‘I Will Take My Chances’ with Emem Isong and that also gave birth to a new actor, Bryan Okwara. That’s the way I give back to the industry. “Now the cinema culture is up and running. When I did I Will Take My Chances, we brought in cinematographers because we did not have a lot of cinematographers so we brought in those guys from Hollywood but today we have so many cinematographers in Nigeria and what triggered bringing in those cinematographers was because we wanted to do something different and try to see if we can meet up to the international standard that’s how we came about ‘I

the count down to the 2019 elections gathers momentum.

• Ini Edo

Will Take My Chances. It cost us so much but it was the beginning of something and now everybody is on it.” Ini Edo says it is wrong to just sit down and expect things to be done magically. She continues: “Be part of the change you want to see and you will get there somehow. I’m proud and grateful to God that I was able to make it. The time we did ‘Knocking on Heaven’s Door, what a lot of people didn’t know was that the owners of that project wanted me to produce it so I brought Emem

Isong in and they wanted me to play the lead character because we were going to do the entire song miming thing. “For sure I don’t sing, so I insisted on using a new actor; they actually wanted me and another guy with a known face but I insisted on bringing a totally new person on board and that’s what gave rise to Adesua Etomi and Blossom Chukwujekwu. That was their first jobs but today see who they are? I feel privileged to have made such impact even though it may not be so celebrated but

it’s just feels good to know that I have been able to do this. This latest one with Uche Jombo, Heaven On My Mind, is mind-blowing,” Ini Edo added. Talking about 2019, what should fans expect from her? “My fans should expect nothing short of the best from their very own. 2019 is going to be another great year. I am looking forward to a better 2019, not just for me as a person or an actress, but also for my fans, friends and well wishes, and our nation Nigeria.”

Three must-watch-Nollywood movies of 2018

018 will go down as an eventful year for Nigerian cinema as the industry continues to attract fresh top-of-the-notch-talent. Today, Oracle Today brings you the top three-must-watch Nollywood movies of of the outgone. Lion Heart What sets Genevieve Nnaji’s directorial debut apart among others is the fact that it is Netflick’s first original Nigerian movie. It opened to rave reviews when it hit cinemas on September 20 and reinvented the career of the screen goddess as a successful movie director. Produced by Chinny Onwugbenu, Lion Heart stars Pete Edochie, Genevieve Nnaji, and Nkem Owoh. It was acquired by Netflix on the 7th of September 2018, making it the first Netflix original film produced in Nigeria. It was premiered at the 2018 Toronoto International Film Festival in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. The movie was Nnaji’s directorial debut as well as Peter Okoye’s acting debut. Lion Heart tells the story of Adaeze Obiagu and her family as they battle to save their father’s transport company from being taken over by shrewd businessman, Igwe Pascal due to a huge debt that threatens to sink the company’s fortunes. Even though Lionheart’s central plot revolves around the Obiagus’ financial troubles, it’s more about the family’s spirit of togetherness than about its failing business. Lion Heart tackles themes of love, of family and of duty. The Power of One Over a year after his botched demonstra-

need to stand together, united. It also captures the pains, fears and challenges of his wife, Annie Idibia as she battles to balance her husband’s desire for a protest with the interests of her family and the safety of her husband and his career. Above all, it shows the potentials of the entertainment industry and how it could be leveraged to break the chains of economic backwardness and set Nigeria on a trajectory to greatness. There is no gain saying it, Power of One is set to rule the cinemas in 2019 and also snap up awards.

tion which shook the nation, Tuface returns with Power of One, the back story of what transpired during those dark and heady days when he was expected to lead a protest and how he eventually dumped the ‘project; to the disappointment of many. Scripted by his manager, Efe Omorogbe, The Power of One confronts head-on issues plaguing our nation today ranging from corruption, unemployment, terrorism, our ostentatious life style against a backdrop of crippling poverty and exposes the de-

spondency of the Nigerian youth in a society where their votes no longer matter. Featuring Annie Idibia, Peter Ebuka, Ramsey Noah and Jibola Daboh among a host of others, The Power of One highlights the power of social media and the radical side of Tuface and the choices he had to make in those critical days. The Power of One is wrapped around comedy which helps deliver a hard message in a subtle way while driving home the fact that for Nigeria to stand as a nation, we all

King of Boys Coming from the director of The Wedding Party, King of Boys, a political thriller from prolific moviemaker, Kemi Adetiba is one flick that has left in its wake rave reviews and is poised to win awards in 2019. King of Boys tells the story of Alhaja Eniola Salami, a businesswoman and philanthropist with and a promising political future. She is drawn into a struggle for power which in turn threatens everything around her as a result of her growing political ambitions. To overcome, she is caught up in a game of trust, not knowing who to really look up to and this leads to her ruthlessness. KIng of Boys stars Sola Sobowale, Adesua Etomi, Jide Kosoko, Osas Oghodaro, Illbliss, Reminiesce and Akin Lweis. Written by Kemi Adetiba, it was produced by Kemi Adetiba, Remi Adetiba and Kene Okwuosa. King of Boys is the fifth-highest-grossing Nigerian film at the Box Office grossing over N220,801,653

The Oracle Today Wednesday January 23, 2019

NEWS Abia to revive moribund industries, allocates N1.608bn to agriculture From BONIFACE OKORO, Umuahia

bia State Government would partner with private investors to revive some moribund industries in the state this year, the Commissioner for Finance, Chief Obinna Oriaku, has said. Oriaku made this known at the Abia State House of Asembly while breaking down the state’s 2019 budget estimates christened Budget of Consolidation. Recall that Governor Okezie Ikpeazu, had on Friday, December 28, 2018, presented N139bn Appropriation Bill for the 2019 fiscal year to the state House of Assembly. The bill has a capital expenditure outlay of N71.7b, representing 51.4 per cent, and recurrent expenditure of N67.8bn, representing 48.6 per cent. Ikpeazu said the budget outlay was slightly less than that of 2018, which was N140. 9bn. Oriaku said the state government, having made significant progress in creating favourable environment for both foreign and local investors, would partner reputable investors to ensure full realization of the Enyimba Economic City project in order to boost commerce and industry in Abia. “This project is meant to attract immense economic benefits to the state,” he said, adding “our modest achievements in the development of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) will be sustained in 2019.” The Commissioner assured that government would encourage youths to acquire skills that would enable them to be self-employed, assuring that government would continue to partner with the Central Bank of Nigeria, Bank of Industry and other financial institutions to provide soft loans to Abians for entrepreneurship development. Oriaku said N22 million was allocated to intensifying efforts in developing the oil and gas sub-sector, especially in establishing a petroleum refinery in the state, while N2 billion would be set aside to meet counterpart fund obligations in order to sustain commitments with international development partners. Education has the largest sectorial allocation of N8.24 billion as it is the key to emancipation from the shackles of poverty and inequality. Oriaku said that apart from promoting a conducive environment for teaching and learning in schools, the government would ensure that Abia’s education system would continue to maintain its excellent record. He said government would encourage human capacity building and skills acquisition through formal and informal training programmes. With N1. 608 billion allocation to agriculture, Oriaku said government would continue to implement initiatives that would promote production of food and cash crops in the state. “We shall sustain our efforts to provide farm inputs such as fertilizers, hybrid seedlings and extension services to farmers. “The government intends to develop rice value chain, poultry clusters, oil palm value chain and encourage massive expansion of mushroom farm,” the Commissioner told the lawmakers.

SEEFOR Project: World Bank to extend programme in Delta

elta Coordinator, State Employment and Expenditure For Results (SEEFOR) project, Frank Apokwu, says plans are ongoing by the World Bank and European Union (EU) to extend the projects in the state. Apokwu, in an interview Sunday in Asaba, said SEEFOR programme, which was supposed to end in few months’ time would be extended by an additional year. The Delta SEEFOR Project is an International Development Association (IDA) and European Union (EU) assisted Project to enhance opportunities for employment and access socio-economic services, while improving the public expenditure man-

agement systems in the state. Apokwu said the state already opted for extension of the programme and “ if the request sees the light of day, the five year programme, which is billed to end in the next few months will continue till September 2020.’’ “The state is optimistic that World Bank and EU will graciously extend the project to 2020 to create more impact in the lives of the people of the state. “This project was supposed to end this year, but it was realised that there has been a lot of slippages. “So, the World Bank has agreed that the project closure should be extended to September 2020 and they

have asked the state to apply formally for the extension of the project and we have done so. “What it means is that the extension will give us enough leverage to re-engineer, consolidate and ensure that we are able to achieve some of the remaining project development objectives in the state,’’ he said. This would be the second time the project was being extended in the state. The five year programme, which officially kicked off in the state in 2013 as against the initial plan of 2011, was extended in 2017 by two years. Apokwu said the programme has impacted positively on the economic index of the state, especially in the

area of job creation. According to him, since the programme started in the state in 2013, it has created over 20,000 jobs, executed several road projects and six technical colleges and three vocational institutions have been revamped. The coordinator also said that plans were ongoing to engage 825 youths under its public works component of the project in 2019. “This year, we will be rolling out another 13 public works and we are hoping that we should be able to engage another 825 youths on our public works component,’’ he said.

Gov. Emmanuel advocates unity, peaceful elections

From Ini Billie, Uyo

• Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike speaking during a mobilisation meeting at Unit 7 Ward 9 of Obio/Akpor Local Government Area

Wike swears-in special advisers, board chairman

ifteen new Special Advisers were on Monday in Port Harcourt sworn into the Rivers Executive Council by Gov. Nyesom Wike. Wike, who also swore-in the Chairman of Rivers Pension Board, Prof. Ovunda Okene, inaugurated members of the Board of the Rivers State Housing and Property Development Authority The Governor called on the new appointees to see their appointment as a call to serve the people of Rivers. Wike also urged the appointees to

regard the appointment as a means to add value to the governance of the state rather than for self-enrichment. “When you have opportunity like this, use it to prove your capacity, this can be the platform for promotion, this is not an opportunity to make money, just serve, what is due you will come to you,” Wike said. The governor urged them to be loyal at all times and contribute to the advancement of the people of the State. Wike tasked the new appointees to be in touch with their constituen-

cies to keep them abreast with the development of the state. He said that the state government was working to amend the Pension Law to address the challenges experienced in the pension scheme. The governor also urged the State Housing and Property Development Authority to sanitise the housing sector. The Chairman of the Rivers State Housing and Property Development Authority, Mr Egurugwu, assured that the appointees would live up to the government’s expectation.

We’re committed to salvaging C’River despite litigations - Enoh From ANIEKAN ANIEKAN, Calabar

ubernatorial candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the forthcoming elections in Cross River, Senator John Owan Enoh has disclosed that the party is committed to rescuing Cross River State despite the series of litigations over the party’s Guber ticket in the state. Senator Enoh also disclosed that the challenges facing cross river state is quite enormous and so the party is determined to forge ahead with the campaigns in order to save the state. The senator made this known in Calabar while officially flagging off the party’s gubernatorial campaigns. The campaigns will kick off in Ogoja, Northern Cross River State and move to all the local government ar-

eas will include town hall meetings, visit all the local government areas as well as a senatorial rally in the three senatorial zones in the state beginning in the North. He said: “The idea of the litigations is to get us distracted but in spite of this, we are forging ahead because the state needs to be salvaged. “The salvation and rescue of cross river state lie with the APC in view of the representations we have had from well-meaning people of the state. “The challenge and problems of cross-river are far bigger than the kind of distractions that we have. “It’s unbelievable the number of interest groups and individuals that are encouraging and urging us to keep on so as to rescue the state. “We are going to our towns and villages to let our people know that

this is not the cross-river of our dreams and that we deserve better”, the senator said. He said there is no controversy whatsoever about the governorship ticket in the state as he won the ticket of the party through the Panel set up by the NWC of the party, his name was submitted to INEC and he was eventually presented the party’s flag during the SouthSouth National rally of the party. He stressed that despite the litigations, he is still open to working with the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Usani Uguru Usani and he hopes they will eventually work together in order to salvage the state. He promised to run a humane administration, listen to people’s contributions to the state’s development and also ensure that everyone counts in the administration of the state.

overnor Udom Emmanuel of Akwa Ibom State has called on Nigerians to be united despite the differences in tribe and religion. He said the will of the people should be allowed to prevail during the forthcoming general elections, adding that the elections should be peaceful. Emmanuel who spoke during the 2019 Armed Forces Remembrance Day held in Uyo Cenataph on Tuesday, said politics should be that of ideas and not about character assassination. He encouraged Nigerians to rededicate themselves to the ideals of the fallen heroes and ensure national unity and peaceful coexistence. The governor who released white pigeons and laid wreaths for the fallen heroes encouraged Nigerians to join hands with the government to cater for the welfare of relatives of the gallant soldiers who lost their lives to keep the nation together. He said the survivors and families of the gallant soldiers should not be allowed to cry for the lost of their breadwinners. He said, “On this day of remembrance of our gallant soldier, let us rededicate ourselves to the ideals of national unity, of peaceful co-existence. “When our gallant soldiers went to the theatre of war during the First and Second World Wars in far flung places like Burma, or Myanmar, when they were in Katanga Province in the Congo during that nation’s turbulent years. “When they was killed at various hot spots during the Nigerian Civil War or in Liberia, they were not labelled PDP or APC, neither were they defined as Hausa-Fulani, Yoruba or Igbos, Ibibios, Annangs or Oros; “They were not called to the parade grounds based on their States of origin, they were all Nigerians joined together by patriotic fervour and a passion to serve. “We must honour their memory by doing all we can to negate those issues and tendencies that had led us to war in the first instance. “As we prepare for the elections, let us allow the will of the people to stand, let us resist the temptation to create tensions in the land just to satisfy the inordinate ambitions of certain individuals. “Let us play politics of ideas as opposed to that of character assassination or other devious machinations. “We must spare our time, our resources and our blessings to remember these heroes always, not just in January of every year, but in our daily activities. We must reach out to these families and show them that the sacrifices their breadwinners made were not in vain”.

The Oracle Today Wednesday January 23, 2019

NEWS Abia APC to PDP: ‘Stop destroying our campaign posters’

ll Progressives Congress (APC) in Abia has cautioned members of the ruling party in the state, the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to desist from destruction of its posters and billboards. APC Publicity Secretary, Mr Benedict Godson, gave the warning on Monday while reacting to alleged destruction of campaign billboards and posters of some the party’s candidates across the state. Godson described the recent destruction of campaign posters of the Isiala Ngwa North and South Federal Constituency candidate, Mrs Blessing Nwokonneya and others in various locations as uncalled for. He said his party was not weak to confront the PDP for retaliation, but maintained that turning Abia into a war zone was not the approach of politics that the APC believed in. He urged the police and other security agencies to fish out and deal decisively with touts recruited to carry out the acts and also apprehend their sponsors. He said only prosecution of those involved would assuage those whose campaign materials were destroyed. “The PDP is really trying to throw Abia into serious violence. We are cautioning them to stop these provocative acts to avoid throwing our peaceful state into avoidable violence as elections draw closer. ”Destroying posters and billboards belonging to opposition parties is not part of democracy. It’s a sign of frustration and frustrated people don’t play free and fair games. “They started these their evil acts sometimes last year and have continued with it in this new year by destroying billboards of Lady Blessing Uwoma Nwokonneya our House of Representatives candidate for Isiala Ngwa North and South Constituency. “The PDP is frustrated because the people have rejected them. Their failure to work for Abians is beginning to hunt them down. “Their bank of lies is empty as they have run short of lies to tell our people. They now see anyone from APC as their problem which is very ridiculous”, he said. Godson challenged the PDP to come into the electoral contests in Abia with free and fair minds if they had marketable candidates. He said the APC had the capacity to match the PDP in anyway but noted that joining in their illegal and provocative actions would result in unnecessary bloodshed of innocent Abians. The Abian State PDP Spokesman, Chief Don Ubani when contacted said that the PDP had no business as a party with giving orders for anybody to destroy campaign materials of other parties. “You know that the PDP has a track record. PDP is not known for violence. And PDP cannot resort to pettiness. Why would you need to tear the campaign posters of persons who you know if election is conducted 20 times, your party will pip them? “So these are very false allegations, spurious claims. The woman in Isiala Ngwa, as I passed now, I saw her poster. She constitutes not threat to us. We believe in the collective free will of the people to take precedence over whatever individual aspiration is. So we don’t have any business tearing any candidate’s poster. What would we gain by doing that? He asked.

CJN: Nigeria descending into totalitarian, fascist state – NBA Cross River From ANIEKAN ANIEKAN, Calabar

igerian Bar Association (NBA), Cross River State Chapter have condemned the proposed arraignment of the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Walter Samuel Onnoghen saying that the country is descending into a totalitarian and fascist state. Members of the NBA who boycotted Court proceedings in the State in protest against the arraignment said the arraignment is a breach of the law and known due processes in the country and members of the bar will not condone any attempt by the executive branch of government to coerce, intimidate and desecrate the judicial arm of government vide the proposed arraignment of the CJN. Speaking to news men at the premises of the State High Court in Calabar after members of the bar boycotted court proceedings in protest against the unjust action by the government, the Chairman of the NBA in the state Emmanuel Idaka,

said the bar will resist any attempt by government to make some persons scapegoats particularly heads of institutions. “I think the time has come for Nigerians to wake up to the current travails that Nigeria is going through. Even if we want to fight corruption, we cannot destroy Nigeria because we want to fight corruption. That is why the law has provided for due process to be followed in the manner things are to be done so that nobody suffers unduly or unjustly. “This battle has been on, when it was the Senate President, Nigerians woke up in different places to condemn it, because you cannot destroy the legislature just because you want to fight corruption, more so, when you are doing selective fight against some persons who you feel are not your persons and are not toeing the line you are toeing. “Like I have said, if you want to fight corruption, let’s go the whole hog. In various places even on the roads, we can find corrupt people

all over, government should fight them and make the country a better place. But we will resist any attempt to make some persons scape goats, especially those who are institutional heads. “It clearly shows that Nigeria is turning into a fascist and totalitarian government where the people will do whatever the leader says and some of us are not even surprised given the background of the current president. Having been a military head of state, he may still have it in his bones and marrow that things are done by absolute degrees, it is not so. “The political dimension to it is that the petitioner had been so close to the President and was even his spokesperson and is a current APC member, so if we go into that it even has a question mark as if it is intended to cause confusion in the country and then score some cheap goals, and so the thing is now backfiring”, the NBA Chair said. Also speaking, Ntufam Mba Uk-

• (From left): Deputy Governor of Akwa Ibom state, Moses Ekpo, Governor Udom Emmanuel and Nollywood actor, Moses Armstrong, during a solidarity rally organised for the Governor by Akwa Ibom farmers under the aegis of the Coalition of Farmers Group at the Globe Square, Wellington Bassey Way, Uyo, Saturday

Save our shops -- Onitsha machete dealers beg Obiano By IBE NWACHUKWU

raders dealing on machetes and knives at the Onitsha Main Market, under the aegis of Machetes Line Association have appealed to Governor Willie Obiano not to allow the authorities of Onitsha Main Market Traders Association (OMMATU), Onitsha North Local Government Council and the Amalgamated Traders Association of Anambra State (AMATAS) to demolish their shops and revoke their allocation papers. They said they have had their allocation papers for long now and have been paying their levies, taxes and rents to the appropriate government authorities as and when due and as such could not imagine the rationale behind the attempt to revoke their papers and even demolish their shops. In a strongly worded petition to Governor Willie Obiano, a second option to their recent peaceful demonstration, around the Onitsha main market premises, the machete deal-

ers appealed to Obiano to intervene and save them from the plot by the market leaders to dispossess them of their legitimate shops. Chairman of the association, Chief Felix Mgbachi and the Secretary, Chimezie Ezeibekwe who signed the petition, wondered why the authorities conceived such plans in the first place to demolish and dispossess them of legitimate shops which they said they said were allocated to them with allocations papers by the state government. In the petition, Mgbachi and Ezeibekwe with the governor to intervene on their behalf and save them from being dispossessed of their legitimate shops the abovementioned authorities, an act which they described as illegal and dubious because they have been paying their taxes and levies regularly to the state government. However in a reaction, Chairman of OMMATU, Chief I. K. Ekwegbalu, told newsmen in his office at OMMATU White House that he was shocked to hear that the traders

demonstrated around the market without first approaching him to find out the true position of the situation before embarking on what he called a fruitless exercise. Ekwegbalu stated that the portion of the market which is largely owned by the butchers, needed to be converted from an open warehouse to lock up shops to meet the modern trend, even as he referred newsmen to AMATAS executive for further clarifications. President-General of AMATAS, Chief Okwudili Ezenwankwo who also confirmed that there was a move to construct lock up shops in the butchers section of the market, which accommodated the machete dealers, however explained that the machete dealers wold retain their shops after the reconstruction exercise if they paid the contractors that handled the work. Ezenwankwo confirmed that some of the machete dealers have even approached him and pledged their readiness to pay the contractors and retain their shops.

weni, SAN said the action of the executive arm of government is unfortunate and government ought not to go against tenets of the law in its fight against corruption. “It is a very unfortunate situation. Nobody in the country with a sane mind is saying that the government should not fight corruption. We are all interested and part and parcel of the government’s fight against corruption but we are insisting that the rule of law and due process should be followed in whatever is being done. “There is no how you can achieve good results if you don’t follow the proper procedure in doing anything that is what we are insisting on. We are not doing this because the CJN is from this part. When it happened in the National Assembly we spoke. “Let me make this clear, most of the people that are enjoying the benefits of this democracy did not actually fight for it, and the NBA has been doing that. So for anybody to think that it is because he is from a certain part of the country that we are rising up, they are not correct. It is not because it is affecting the judiciary or the person of the CJN. If it is any other person we will do that and will always do that”, the Senior Advocate said. Also speaking, Edem Ekong, a Senior Counsel said the timing of the prosecution is wrong and people who have been found to be corrupt have been left off the hook by the government. He said the prosecution is malicious and could potentially consume the country. “He said “The prosecution of the CJN does not make sense and we are all aware of people who have committed grievous offences on camera and film and nothing is happening to him and then a man who purportedly did not declare an account that you know about. “We all know that Justice Walter Onnoghen was screened and delayed and you know about the account. Every account in Nigeria is linked by the BVN. The aim of declaring assets is to ensure that you are not fraudulent, so is that account fraudulent. “Is it the point of not declaring the account that is fraud. And in any case if you want to remove the Chief Justice of the Federation it has to be by another arm of government which is two thirds majority of the senate to impeach the man. How do you get a petition against the CJN on the ninth of January, file charges on the 10th of January to arraign him on the 14th of January. “Clearly there is malice, and something untoward that is happening. So I trust that the bar and the bench all over the country will resist this thing otherwise it will consume this country”, he said. In a six-point communiqué released by the State Branch of the NBA, the lawyers condemned in its entirety the manner in which the federal government and its agencies have assaulted, ridiculed and degraded the revered office of the CJN. They insisted that the rule of law must be followed in the trial of judicial officers in the country as laid down in the case of Nganjiwa vs Federal Republic of Nigeria (2017) LPELR-43391 (CA) where the Court of Appeal made it absolutely clear that any misconduct attached to the office and functions of a Judicial officer must first be reported to and handled by the National Judicial Council.

The Oracle Today Wednesday January 23, 2019

NEWS I stand for restructuring of Nigeria – Atiku

eoples Democratic Party (PDP) Presidential Candidate, Atiku Abubakar, has said that he is passionate about the restructuring of Nigeria. Abubakar made the remarks during his Presidential campaign on Tuesday in Osogbo. He said he would start the process of restructuring in six months of his administration, if elected. ”You know I have always stood for restructuring and I promise that I will start the process in six month, if elected and I mean it,” he said. The PDP Presidential candidate also said he would give 40 per cent appointment to youths and 30 percent to women in his government. While urging the people of the state to vote for him and other PDP candidates, Abubakar also appealed to them to protect their votes. ”I appeal to you to vote for PDP from top to the bottom and your vote for the party means job, security and improved economy,” he said. Also speaking, Abubakar’s wife, Mrs Titi Abubakar, said a vote for her husband would end suffering in the

country. She urged the electorate to vote for her husband and other PDP candidates, adding that her husband would provide jobs, empower women and end poverty. National Chairman of the PDP, Mr Uche Secondus, the PDP National Chairman appealed to the Independent national Electoral Commission (INEC) and security operatives to be neutral during the election. Secondus also urged the new Acting Inspector General of Police, Mohammad Abubakar, to be fair to all Nigerians. He appealed to the electorate to vote for Abubakar and other PDP candidates in the forthcoming elections. Osun PDP Chairman, Mr Soji Adagunodo, said the electorate in the state would give 80 per cent of their votes to Abubakar and other PDP candidates in the elections. Chairman of Coaltion of United Political Parties (CUPP) Steering Committee, Mr Olagunsoye Oyinlola, assured that Abubakar would fulfill all his electoral promises, if elected.

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• Delta State Governor, Ifeanyi Okowa acknowledging cheers from electorate during his s reelection campaign at Issele Uku, Akwukwu-Igbo and Asaba, Tuesday

Ayade approves reconstitution of cocoa allocation committee

tate Governor, Prof. Ben Ayade has approved the reconstitution and inauguration of the newly constituted cocoa allocation committee. Performing the inauguration on behalf of the Governor at 520 kola nut conference and event centre,the Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources, Prof. Egrinya Eneji, stated that Government is determined to pull the State which is now ranked as the second best cocoa producing State in the Country, harness it’s blooming potentials and position it to become the first and largest cocoa producer. According to the Commissioner our cocoa estates which covers about ten thousand hectares, (10,000) and have become less productive due to over bearing pressure needs to be revamped for optimal result. Prof.Eneji then charged the newly inaugurated committee to work as-

siduously towards moving the cocoa sub sector and indeed the entire agricultural sector to greater heights, by looking beyond personal and political consideration to ensure realisation of the set goals. He then used the occasion to call on Crossriverians to be focused and think positively from the Agricultural perspective towards moving the State from over dependence on the federation allocation. Ealier, the Permanent Secretary Rev. Unimniake Ugbe, express delight over the event, stating that constituting a new cocoa allocation committee is a positive step towards resuscitating the cocoa sector which our past leaders have always treasured as a gold mine for the State, adding that the introduction of cocoa allocation committee is to enable individuals, become part of the cocoa management concept. Rev. Ugbe urged members of the

allocation committee to work as a team, adhere to the terms of reference and ensure that cocoa remains a revenue yielding crop to the State. Responding on behalf of the newly inaugurated Cocoa Allocation Committee, the Chairman of the Committee Mr. Collins Ogar, thanked the Government for the initiative which is aimed at r reviving not just the Cocoa sub Sector but the entire Agricultural Sector of the State. Mr. Ogar promised to lead a team that will work within the limit of terms and reference to leave a remarkable legacy behind adding that new ideas will be introduced to the cocoa sub sector by following up all current developmental trends in the cocoa sector. He promised that farmers will be carried along and all areas that have been downgraded will be renovated by the committee to move the cocoa sector forward.

status quo until January 17. “The attention of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC has been drawn to the falsehood which has been spreading on the social media that the EFCC has arrested the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Walter Onnoghen. This is not only a figment of the imagination of the purveyor of the fake news, but an evil machination by the creator and carriers of the news aimed at creating anarchy in the country. “For the record, the EFCC never went to the house of the CJN for arrest neither was invitation extended to him. Several calls and short messages received all point to the fact that the brains behind the fake news had one thing in mind: to act as agent of destabilization. “We would not give in to their plots. One of the architect of the fake news, Femi Fani-Kayode, was quoted as saying ‘Why have the EFCC surrounded the home of CJN Onnoghen

and why are they seeking to arrest him? These people want Nigeria to burn! Buhari call off your dogs before it is too late! This is a democracy and not a gestapo state! In the name of God let this madness stop”. “Another arrowhead of the fake news, Yinka Odumakin shared a nonexistent video which has gone viral. We want to assure Nigerians that while we would fight corruption in line with the mandate setting up the Commission, agents of darkness, in the likes of Femi Fani-Kayode, Yinka Odumakin and his cohorts, would never be able to manipulate the people against the Commission. “We also want to assure Fani-Kayode, Yinka Odumakin and other purveyors of the evil news to be ready to defend their actions in the court of law as the EFCC will file libel suit against them without further delay,” read the statement signed by Orilade Ag. Head, Media & Publicity, EFCC.

…‘I am still in charge of Lagos Command’ —Edgal

said. Egbetokun, who was also present at the briefing in his new rank of Commissioner of Police, did not make any comment on the issue. Egbetokun’s official car which was parked at the CP’s parking space was immediately removed and replaced with Edgal’s official car as soon as they got directive to suspend the hand over. Egbetokun left the state command immediately after the briefing.

EFCC denies raid on Onnoghen’s residence

conomic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has described as “untrue and evil”, reports in some quarters that its personnel had invaded the Abuja residence of Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Walter Onnoghen. Spokesman of the commission Tony Orilade said in a statement, Tuesday, in Abuja that the report “is being spread by evil men and women to get evil results.” It would be recalled that the National Industrial Court had, Monday, asked the Federal Government to put on hold plans to arraign Onnoghen before the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT). The Federal Government had, through the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB), filed six counts of non-declaration of assets charges against Onnoghen. However, ruling on two separate ex parte applications, Justice N.E Maha, ordered parties to maintain

Confusion in Lagos police command over CP

ommissioner of Police in Lagos, CP Edgal Imohimi, Tuesday said he “is still in charge” in the state. “I am still in charge, no change of guard,” Edgal told newsmen at Lagos State Police Command, Ikeja, where he was expected to hand over to a new Acting Commissioner, Kayode Egbetokun. CP Edgal was reportedly redeployed to Abuja on Sunday and re-

placed with Egbetokun, who then informed newsmen that there was a directive from the Police higher authority to maintain status quo. “We are waiting for further directive from above but for now, there is no change of guard. I am happy that you find this office worthy enough to come and witness what we are doing here. I consider it a honour and that honour is same and reciprocal,” he

The Oracle Today Wednesday January 23, 2019

NEWS 2019: Okorocha canvasses for violent free elections

mo State Governor, Rochas Okorocha has called on the residents in the state and Nigerians as a whole to embrace peace as 2019 General Elections draw closer. Okorocha made the call in Owerri at the `Finger off the Trigger’ Campaign, a peace initiative organisation started the South East Campaign for Security, Peace and stability toward the 2019 elections. The Programme Director of Finger Off the Trigger, Mr Ibrahim Ochigbo, said this in a statement made available to newsmen on Tuesday in Abuja Okorocha made the call when the `Finger Off the Trigger’ team led by its National Coordinator, Amb. Chielo Ojirika, paid a courtesy visit to the governor in Owerri. Okorocha, who received the team warmly and endorsed the campaign urged Nigerians to ensure violent free election in the forthcoming general elections. The governor lauded the initiative and called on all residents in Imo and Nigerians to embrace the campaign. He said that the campaign was timely given the need to have a peaceful and violence free election across the state. The National Coordinator, a Nigerian Music Ambassador to Germany, Ojirika also known as Chiboy, the Black Courage commended the governor’s efforts and his commitments toward a violence free election. “Finger off the Trigger’ is a security and crime prevention training and sensitisation programme that tends to curb violence, especially gun violence in Nigeria. “It aims to change the mindset of our youths for the better and encourage them to get their fingers off the trigger for a peaceful 2019 elections and beyond. “It is a non-partisan campaign organised by Salute Nigeria Initiative, supported by the State House, Abuja, and in partnership with the Nigerian Union of Journalists; Nigerian Police Force, National Orientation Agency, Dream Projects, INEC among other,” he said. Ojirika expressed joy as the South East Campaign is taking off on a very good note. He noted that candidates and major stakeholders were adopting Finger Off the Trigger campaign in genuine efforts to have a peaceful 2019 elections and beyond. The coordinator who called on Nigerian youths to shun violence during the elections, urged the security agencies to be on top of their games during the elections. He also appealed to Independent Electoral Commission (INEC) to be courageous in organising and ensuring a free, fair and credible election. Ojirika called on all media outfits to embrace balance reporting while calling on responsible social media reportage. He enjoined all candidates, other major stakeholders and the general public to embrace the clarion call for peace and national unity as the team continues its campaign across the nation.

FEC deliberation on minimum wage to continue after NEC – Minister M inister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, has said that the extraordinary meeting of the Federal Executive Council (FEC) on National Minimum Wage had been postponed until after the National Economic Council’s (NEC) deliberation on the matter. The minister stated this when he briefed State House Correspondents on the outcome of the extraordinary meeting of FEC, which was presided over by President Muhammadu Buhari, at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, on Tuesday. According to him, the Federal Government is awaiting the final position of the NEC on the new national minimum wage, saying Council’s meeting on the matter is work in progress. NEC is the nation’s highest economic-decision-making body, chaired by the Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, with the 36 state governors, Minister of Budget and National Planning, Udoma Udoma and FCT Minister, Mohammed Bello, as members.

But, the minister said: “I cannot talk on the outcome of the meeting over minimum wage because it’s work in progress. “It would also be discussed by the National Economic Council (NEC) before we can brief the media”. President Buhari had on Jan. 9 inaugurated a Technical Advisory Committee on the implementation of the new National Minimum Wage and reiterated his commitment to its payment. He restated his commitment to an upward review of the minimum wage “as it is time to do so’’. He said the committee would recommend “modalities for the implementation of the new minimum wage in such a manner as to minimise its inflationary impact, as well as ensure that its introduction does not lead to job losses’’. According to the president, the committee, which will be chaired by an economist and financial expert, Mr Bismarck Rewane, is expected to complete its deliberations and submit its report and recommendations

within one month from today. The organised labour had insisted on a N30,000 minimum wage as proposed by the Ama Pepple tripartite committee, while the Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF) proposed N24,000. President Buhari, however, stated that the Federal Government had engaged State Governments, to ensure they are carried along in determining any upward review of the minimum wage for workers. “I want to make it clear that there is no question about whether the National Minimum Wage will be reviewed upwards. I am committed to a review of the minimum wage. “Also, it is important to explain that even though the subject of a National Minimum Wage is in the Exclusive Legislative List, we have been meeting with the state governors because it is imperative that the Federal Government carries the State Governments along in determining any upward review of the minimum wage for workers. “This is especially necessary con-

• A cross section of youth leaders from all the wards of Rivers State at the Rivers State PDP Campaign Office during a meeting with the state governor, Nyesom Wike, Monday

2019: INEC rules use of temporary voter card

ndependent National Electoral Commission (INEC), says no voter will be allowed to vote with the temporary voter card, in the forthcoming general elections. Imo Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Prof. Francis Ezeonu made this known at an interactive meeting with religious bodies- members of the Christian and Muslim communities in Imo, on Tuesday in Owerri. He noted that the smart card reader which would be deployed for the elections was structured to read only the Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) which has special features embedded on it with the voters’ personal information. Ezeonu, therefore, enjoined all who are yet to get their PVCs to go to their different wards from Jan. 16 to get their cards in order not to be disfranchised. “The smart card reader is expected to read the permanent voters card and once it could not read any card, the person will not be allowed to vote,” he said. Ezeonu said the interactive meeting with the religious bodies was part of INEC’s move to reach out to all segments of the society to brief

them on the progress so far and get suggestions from them for a free, fair and credible elections. He explained that 2.27 million voters were registered in Imo with over 630,000 PCVs yet to be collected. He urged the stakeholders to sensitise their members as INEC staff would visit the 305 electoral wards between Jan.16 and Jan. 21 to distribute the PVCs, adding that Feb. 8 is the last day for the distribution of the PVCs. On smart card reader malfunctioning, he explained that the Registration Area Technicians had been trained to regularly monitor the card readers and put them back to work as soon as possible. He said a form known as Form 60 E where each result of the election would be written would be pasted on the wall of buildings or trees for all to have access to, adding that all ballot papers not used would be cancelled immediately after election. Speaking, the representatives of the religious bodies advised INEC to ensure there was no problem between the collation of the results and transmission. They equally suggested full accreditation of voters before voting

as against the simultaneous accreditation and voting stipulated by the electoral umpire. The Chairman, Muslim Council of Nigeria, Imo Chapter, Mr Yusuf Nwoha urged INEC to ensure it matched its plans with action- effective implementation- as well as spend money on sensitisation and encouragement of the electorate on PVC collection. “Imo at the moment is tensed up. The probability of miscreants fomenting trouble and disrupting the election progress should be checked. No election is worth the blood of any human being. INEC preparation is good, the problem is execution,” he said. Nwoha also advised INEC to check fake observers, malfunction of card readers as well as step up its operational strategy. Rev.Fr Innocent Osuagwu, who represented the Bishop of Owerri Archdioceses, Archbishop Anthony Obinna, enjoined the commission to ensure its staff exhibited some measure of uprightness during the election. NAN reports that the meeting had in attendance various heads of the different religious bodies in Imo.

sidering the prevailing public sector revenue challenges, which has made it extremely difficult for some of the governors to pay workers as and when due,” he said while inaugurating the advisory committee. He said the Federal Government on its part had made adequate provision for the increase in the Minimum Wage in its 2019 Budget proposal, which was submitted to the National Assembly on Dec. 19, 2018.

Don’t truncate election process, Urhobo warn Delta politicians From Emmanuel Ogoigbe, Warri

rhobo Progress Network (UPN) has warned that any attempt to truncate the rotational policy already in the political system, will be counterproductive and may lead to dire consequences for the peace and unity being enjoyed in Delta State. According to the group, the rotation of governance already in existence among the five ethnic nationalities should be maintained. Addressing newsmen in Warri, the group led by the Director General, Chief Emmanuel Okumagba, explained that of the five ethnic nationalities, comprising three senatorial districts namely: Delta South, Delta Central and Delta North, two have governed the state for two terms each, saying that Delta North should be allowed to complete its second tenure too. While insisting that Governor Okowa deserves a second term, the group said the governor, within thirty-six months in office, has done remarkable well by spreading development across the twenty-five local government areas in the state. Given constitutional position which allows for two terms of four years each, it will not be fair and morally justified to deny Okowa who is from Delta North a second term, considering the fact that governor Okowa has done creditable well,” stressed the group leader. “Our stand is that Governor Okowa be reelected for a second term in line with existing facts, and we also called on all sons and daughters of Urhobo ethnic nationality to vote en mass for Governor Okowa in the interest of peace, justice, equity and fair play,” the group further said. “Let it be categorically stated that our call is predicted on the undeniable truth that cone 2023, the governorship position will revert to Delta Central/Urhobo ethnic nationality: Besides, it will foster peace and tranquility and also give the five ethnic nationalities a sense of belonging and well as engineering brotherliness,” remarked the UPN. According to Chief Okumagba also, “It was this policy that availed Dr Emmanuel Uduaghan, who came from a minority group, the unique opportunity to become the governor of the state. “This policy had also guaranteed and assured every tribe that the governorship position is not an exclusive preserve of any particular trube.” “The UPN wish to say categorically that it is a taboo, and anathema to change a winning team because governor Okowa is a gentleman, reliable and trustworthy, and above all a great performer,” the group further stressed.

The Oracle Today Wednesday January 23, 2018

NEWS

Coca-Cola shuts down Enugu production Cont’d on page 2 us. We copied the Commerce Commissioner, the police and the local government chairman of Udi, and nobody did anything. Now CocaCola left without our knowledge and still occupies our land. “I am the person holding my people from repossessing our land. Coca-Cola should do the needful by bringing one line here say Eva water, or pack and go for us to bring another company. “We don’t want depot in Enugu. We want a production line like Eva water since they shut down Coca-Cola production line. If not, they should pack and go.” Confirming the stories about increased crime rate and killing of about 10 persons since Coca-Co-

la was shut down, Chief Nwude said: “People have been shot in the past one month. A pregnant hotelier was shot the other day inside her office. Another was shot near the by-pass and another near tyre business site and we suspect it was those retrenched that were doing this. “Do you know that a group is being accused of trying to collect a bribe of over N5Million to ensure our community is divided on our stand on this issue but I assure you, they would fail,’’ he concluded.

Reacting when contacted by The Oracle Today, Enugu State Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Hon. Ogbu Nwobodo asked if the government had any right to prevail on any private company on how to operate its businesses. He insisted that Coca Cola had every right to decide to change its line of business and owed no one any explanation. “Is Coca Cola a government company? What would government say to a public company that is quoted in the stock market? No

government has a right to stop Coca-Cola from relocating,” Nwobodo said, adding that the duty of Enugu State is to support them in any line they so desire for better operation. Seeming unfazed by the loss of jobs by thousands in State wracked by debilitating youth and middle class unemployment, Nwobodo who turned to interview our Correspondent on the reactions of Coca-Cola when contacted over their action, however, claimed that the Ugwuanyi-led government was still “actively en-

Police in Rivers kill 4 kidnap suspects, arrests 93 others

olice Command in Rivers said on Tuesday that it killed four kidnap suspects in a shootout with the hoodlums during a rescue operation in the state this month. The Commissioner of Police in the state, Mr Usman Belel, who disclosed this to journalists in Port Harcourt, said five kidnap victims had been rescued since the beginning of January. He said that the command also arrested 93 suspects involved various crimes in the state, including armed robbery, kidnapping and cultism within the period Belel, who had during his maiden news conference promised that the command would smash crimes in Rivers, said 30 of the suspects were involved in armed robbery. According to him, six women were arrested in connection with human trafficking and 17 were arrested for kidnapping while 15 were involved in cultism. The police commissioner said four robbery and three kidnap attempts were foiled during the period under review. Belel said that two pump action guns, 23 locally made pistols, 23 rounds of ammunition and two magazines were recovered from the suspects. Others items recovered included two vehicles, one motorbike, assorted mobile telephones, six sets of army uniform, four army boots, navy uniform and N250,000 cash. He appealed to the public to exercise patience with the command over its investigation of the suspects, adding that thorough police investigation took time to conduct and complete. The commissioner of police said the suspects would be arraigned after investigation was concluded. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that Belel had during his maiden press briefing warned criminals that “their time was up as the state would be made grossly inhabitable for them.”

•Delta State Governor, Ifeanyi Okowa lays the wreath in honour of the unknown soldier at the Asaba Cenotaph, during the 2019 Armed Forces Remembrance, Tuesday in Asaba

Okowa to PDP, Deltans: Remain united to achieve victory

0 days to Presidential election, Delta State Governor, Ifeanyi Okowa has urged members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to remain united to achieve victory at the polls. The governor made the call today (15/01/19) at the PDP campaign rallies at Issele-Uku, Akwukwu-Igbo and Asaba in Aniocha North, Oshimili North and Oshimili South local government areas of Delta State respectively. According to the governor who was accompanied to the campaign rallies by his wife, Dame Edith, his running mate, Burutu Otuaro and other top politicians in the state, with unity and cooperation, the PDP will win in all the elections billed for February 16 and March 2, 2019. “We are going into the elections as a united people, we should cooperate, because, through cooperation, we will get maximum number of votes; let no one be involved in anti-party activity, let us get votes that all of us will be proud of,” Governor Okowa said at Issele-Uku. He added, “the leaders and the youths should work together, everybody should be recognised; this is the turn of Delta North to complete two terms because, it will not be good that after working for other Senatorial Districts

to do two terms respectively, the people of Delta North will fail to support their own for two terms; we have worked, our success stories abound in all parts of Delta, we will do more in our second tenure because, we are experienced and we have peace.” At Akwukwu-Igbo, he challenged the people to check any form of electoral malpractice, saying, “there will be no room for rigging, there should be close monitoring of the elections because, our votes must count, collect your Permanent Voters Cards (PVCs), encourage others to get theirs; we should get all the votes that we can.” Excited with the huge turnout of Deltans at venues of the campaign rallies, Governor Okowa expressed confidence that he may be returned unopposed by the people as his main opponent in the elections may join his campaign train. The governor at Asaba, stated, “I love Deltans, you are my people and I am happy with the show of love by you all to me and my administration; from the feelers reaching me, the heavy turnout at the rallies, it will not be a surprise that Deltans will return me unopposed.” “I have spent several years in Asaba, I am proud to be a Deltan; Asaba should wear a befitting

look because, it is the mirror with which investors, visitors see the entire state; we are constructing storm drainage in Asaba, we are going to do the same in Uvwie and Warri; our development is not limited to major towns and cities, the rural areas are having good impact of our development programmes,” the governor said, adding, “in the second tenure we will do more in the area of entrepreneurial programmes for our youths; we will do a lot of empowerment and provision of infrastructure that after our tenure in 2023, any Governor that will emerge in Delta State will have a lot of challenge to meet up with the standards that we are setting.” He thanked the people for their continual support and asked them to vote for all the candidates of the PDP in the elections. Those who spoke at the rallies including former Deputy Governor of Delta State, Chief Benjamin Elue, Chief Austin Izagbor, Chief Edwin Uzor, Hon. Funkekeme Solomon, Prince Ned Nwoko, Barr. Kingsley Esiso, among others observed that the governor has done a lot to be re-elected, adding that with the zoning formula of the PDP, he will be re-elected with high margin of votes in the election.

gaging” Coca-Cola to know how they can be assisted more. He claimed as well that he knew about the company’s existence and modus operandi, faulting the claims that Kano State government had prevailed on Coca- Cola to stop relocating from Kano and the bottling company stayed put. He offered to give The Oracle Today a detailed interview on the issue at stake, adding that, in reality, Coca-Cola had not left Enugu although he was not forthcoming about the new company he said NBC was bringing back to the Coal-City State. Although Igwe J C Okolo of Ameke Ngwo was not at his palace when The Oracle Today visited, he asked another community leader from Umuezeani Ameke, Ngwo, Ozo Basil Alor to speak to us. According to Alor, his own part of Ngwo is host to Father Mbaka’s Aqua Rapha Table Water, NBL’s Ama Breweries and 7up Bottling company but noted that the sudden decision by Coca-Cola to relocate was “just too bad.” He attributed their action to what he described as “the vicious politics endemic in Nigeria’s corporate world,” wondering why Coca-Cola should shut down a company where its cost in water treatment was zero kobo and relocate to where its cost in water treatment is outrageous. He said he did not see any sense in such business decision. He described the situation between Coca-Cola and its host communities as a sad commentary on the factors that influence certain investment decisions in corporate Nigeria. He said the Igwe-in-Council was in total support of complete relocation and handover of the land by Coca- Cola if that was what they wanted, pointing out that they should not continue to hold the land when production was no longer taking place in the plant. He recalled that St Jude’s Catholic Church gave up its land for expansion of Coca-Cola provided another worship place was provided for them and an agreement was reached to that effect before the sudden and unannounced pullout from Enugu. At the palace of 105 years old traditional ruler of Ngwo, Igwe IOU Ayalogu, he was bitter at the shutdown even though he admitted hadn’t heard about it before The Oracle Today’s visit. He described the pull-out as “a humiliating decision” by NBC. Pa Ayalogu who is still sound in mind and speech at 105 years, recalled that same experience happened to Coal business in Enugu, saying the shutdown of the 44 year-old Coca-Cola plant was a bad omen for Ngwo. A source at the security post, said some workers were paid compensation and others transferred to plants, such as Benin, Lagos and other places where Coca-Cola has their production plant in Nigeria. Investigation revealed that thousands of casual workers making a minimum of N5,000 daily from loading and offloading sugar are now jobless. Chukwu Johnson confirmed some workers were paid entitlements.

The Oracle Today Wednesday January 23, 2019

SPORTS

I’ll not put too much pressure on Eagles – Rohr Stories by MADUABUCHI KALU

UPER Eagles Technical Adviser, Gernot Rohr has stated that he would not like to put too much pressure on his young team ahead of the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations taking place in Egypt this summer. This declaration by the Franco-German football tactician is coming on the heels of report that Amaju Melvin Pinnick’s led board of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) have set winning the AFCON for the fourth time as target for the team. But the team’s gaffer is wary of putting undue pressure on his young lads. The Eagles’ coach said his team were capable of winning the competition in Egypt if they prepare well and in good shape; as well as being well motivated adding that it is too early to assume anything. He said that Eagles would just go to the competition and win it. In his words: “My ambition with the team is to go to Egypt and make great AFCON,” Rohr began. “We are number four in Africa now. We want to go higher with players who are even younger than the ones we paraded at the World Cup. “We all would like to win the AFCON but I avoid putting too much pressure on our young players,” he declared. The former Burkina Faso manager has, however, stated that he has nothing but praise for Super Eagles’ player, Samuel Kalu, who plays for

•Super Eagles celebrate after a victory. FC Girondins de Bordeaux in the French League Un. This is coming after the Nigerian scored a wonder goal in his team’s 1-0 victory in the French League Un last weekend. Meanwhile, Gernot Rohr has heaped praises on Super Eagles forward, Moses Simon saying the player knows how to attack and never fails to fall back to the defence in the team. He explained that Moses can also plays on the left wing when playing 4-2-3-1 formation.

Continental competitions: Lobi, Rangers in ‘Cloud 9’ after securing victories

T was a beautiful weekend for Nigerian clubs on the continent as Lobi Stars of Makurdi and Enugu Rangers won their fixtures home and away. The two Nigerian clubs are competition in CAF Champions League and Confederation Cup competitions. It was Lobi Stars who started what turned out to be a very beautiful weekend for Nigeria clubs on the continent as the Coach Solomon Ogbeide tutored Lobi Stars came from behind to secure 2-1 victory over former champions, Mamelodi Sundowns of South Africa at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium Enugu on Saturday. Enugu Rangers on the other hand, also handed 2-1 defeat to Bantu Fc of Lesotho even as they look set to do a double against Bantu when they come visiting for the return leg. While Lobi came from behind to secure victory against visiting Mamelodi Sundowns of South Africa, the Flying Antelope had a commanding lead from the blast of the whistle as they dictated the pace of the game resulting in their 2 goals while the host put one back before the final whistle. It is expected that the Coach Gbenga Ogunbote’s side are going to make it to the group stage of this year’s CAF Confederation Cup have already secured victory in the first leg of the two legged encounter. Report reaching Oracle Today Sports had it that Bantu FC of Lesotho are talking tough saying their aim of coming to Enugu this weekend is to shock Rangers to make it to the

next stage of the competition. They are of the view that if Rangers could come and run away with victory in their backyard, nothing stops them from doing likewise. Therefore, the Flying Antelope should not lower their guard because there are no minnows in football. Rangers should guide against complacency when they file out in the reversed fixtures against Bantu FC of Lesotho this weekend at the Cathedral as Rangers fans prefer to call the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium. In the same vein, Lobi Stars should ensure that they get a good result in their next CAF Champions League to continue to brighten their chances of making it to the knock out stage of the competition as they are already playing in the group stage of the competition.

Sports Medicine part of our agenda – Dalung

INISTER of Sports and Youth Development, Hon. Solomon Dalung, has stated that Sports Medicine has been a part of the agenda of his ministry, the Sports and Youth Development Ministry. Dalung stated this during the launch of the High Performance Equipment at the Parking B of the Abuja National Stadium Abuja. The Minister told sports journalists at the event that since the inception of his administration, Sports Medicine Equipment has been a part of the agenda of his ministry. “When I came on board, I discovered that as a leading country in Africa we did not have a National High Performance Centre. “And in contemporary sports, without High Performance Centre you cannot make much progress in athletes performances because sports is science and we need the science of sports to make progress,” Dalung explained. “Sports Medicine is very component of the High Performance Sports Medicine. So, there is the need for us to have High Performance centre,” Dalung said. Meanwhile, the acting Medical Director of the Sports Medicine, Dr. Paul Onyeodo said experts were already in the country to service the procured high Performance equipment from time to time. “We use the technology that has

representatives in Nigeria, so that they will have service centres. It is factored and talked about. It is like having a Samsung Television now, they have service centres. “There are some televisions you cannot buy because if they get bad they don’t have service centres. “So, the equipment that we are trying to use is equipment that already has reps in Nigeria. The technology is here, every component can be sorted out,” Dr. Onyeodo explained.

the best on the continent there is no doubt about that. He has been doing well. He did it last season and he is carrying on from where he stopped, you know,” Ighalo began. “He is doing so great, he is scoring goals and when he starts running, it is difficult to stop him. I think he is a better player now. “I played against him, against Egypt in national team. He was not that quick but now he is very quick. He is very fast and he scores goals now. “He is doing well and for me, he is one of the best,” Ighalo declared.

ORMER England international, John Fashanu said Super Eagles’ Technical Adviser, Gernot Rohr should build his Super Eagles team around Arsenal and Eagles’ forward, Alex Iwobi. This is coming on the heels of Iwobi’s five star performances for his club, Arsenal in the English Premier League particularly against Liverpool. According to Fashanu: “Iwobi has been exceptionally brilliant in his last couple of games for his club; Arsenal. And I was highly impressed by his playing the game against Liverpool. “There is no doubt he is in good form and I believe that he will maintain the form in the last part of the season and more importantly with the Africa Cup of Nations coming up in the middle of the year,” Fashanu explained. Meanwhile, just as everyone is preparing, Nigeria’s women national team the Super Falcons, departed the shores of the country Monday for China to take part in the four nation invitational tournament to kick start their preparations for the 8th Federation of International Football Association (FIFA) Women World Cup taking place in France this summer. The Nigerian contingent to the four nation tournament in China is made up of 16 players and 9 officials left the country and are expected to arrive the Chinese city of Mejun yesterday evening. Four players are expected to fly directly to China from Europe to join the team. Host China, Romania and Korea Republic are the other teams taking part in the four day invitational starting on Thursday. In another development, the coach of the Under-20 team, the Flying Eagles Paul Aigbogun will release the list of his players for this year’s Africa Under-20 Nations Cup early next week according to the NFF. The team who were runners-up in the West Africa Football Union (WAFU) Under-20 championship in Lome, Togo last month has been in training camp in the Federal Capital Territory Abuja for more than two weeks.

Eagles to know AFCON opponents April

Ighalo declares Salah continental best UPER Eagles’ and Changchun Yatai striker, Odion Jude Ighalo, who parted ways with his Chinese Super League club following the relegation of the club has declared Egypt and Liverpool striker, Mohammed Salah as the best in Africa. According to Ighalo, Salah is one of the best in the world at the moment and as a result, deserves all the accolades pouring in his way. He explained that Salah has improved a lot as he is quicker than he used to be as a striker. “Of course Mohammed Salah is

Fashanu wants Rohr to build Eagles on Iwobi

Meanwhile the Edo State-born goal poacher who has been linked to FC Barcelona and Tottenham Hotspur has disclosed that he is not interested in signing a club where he will not be playing regularly hence the rumoured link to Tottenham is a sham despite being in England. He says Tottenham are a big team and he wants to play in Tottenham but with Harry Kane and Fernando Javier Llorente Torres, he is not thinking of Tottenham for now, because he wants to go to a club where he can be playing good and quality football.

HREE time African champions, the Super Eagles of Nigeria will know their first round opponents in the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in April that will holding in Egypt when the draw is held in June. The Super Eagles have already qualified for the biennial biggest continental football showpiece with a game to spare. Egypt Football Association on Monday disclosed that the Africa Cup of Nations draw will be conducted in the first week of April saying already six stadia for the AFCON tournament are ready while nine others will be ready by April. The 2019 tournament will be an expanded championship with 24 teams and will be played between June 16th and July 13th. This will be Egypt’s 5th time of staging the African trophies after they hosted in 1959, 1974, 1984 and 2006. Meanwhile, the President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) Amaju Melvin Pinnick insist Nigeria will prepare adequately to win the Africa Cup of Nations this summer saying that is the major focus of the Federation for the year.

The Oracle Today Wednesday January 23, 2019

SPORTS

How Ochuche paid thank-you visit to Shagari – Oduah •Pours encomium on late President Stories by MADUABUCHI KALU

ORE encomiums are still pouring in the way of late first Executive President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Alhaji Shehu Aliyu Usman Shagari, who joined his forebears on the 28th of last month after a brief illness at the National Hospital in Abuja. Latest to eulogize one of the best leaders that this country has ever produced is no other person than veteran sports administrator and former member of Nigeria Football Association (NFA), Prince Isidore Oguejiofor Oduah. The elder statesman in exclusive interview he granted The Oracle Today Sports in his Ikeja Lagos residence last week described the late President Shagari as a man who has the heart of gold. According to him, the former President was embodiment of humility who never allowed his position gets into his head rather was so humble that he apologises when at fault without the prompting of anybody. He recalled with nostalgia an incident that happened when he led the Ochuche people in Ogbaru Local Government Area of Anambra State to pay a thank you visit to the late President over his benevolence of pardoning the late Eze Igbo Gburugburu, Ikemba Chukwuemeka Odimegwu Ojukwu in 1982. According to the founder of Red Carpet Advertising, meeting the late President is an unforgettable experience as President Shagari received them as if he had known them from Adam. He said the death of President Shagari has robbed the country of a great son, a detribalized leader, who sees every Nigerian as one. He said that Shagari was a stabilizing figure in the Nigerian polity, a peacemaker and father of all. “I want to join millions of Nigerians to mourn a great Nigerian, a father of the Nation, a peace lover and a peacemaker, a stabilizing figure, the first executive President of this great country, Nigeria, Alhaji Shehu Aliyu Usman Shagari, who joined his ancestors at the ripe age of 96 on December 28th, 2018 at the Abuja National Hospital according to media report,” Prince Oduah began. “President Shagari happened to be one if not the best leaders that this country has ever produced. He was a man of peace, very humble and detribalized. He was a man with the heart of gold. He mentored many political elites. “He was a stabilizing factor. He never harboured any ill-feelings against anybody. He never discriminated against anybody. He was father of all as president as he treated every part of the country with fairness and equity,” Prince Oduah said. Continuing he said: “I had encounter with the late President when I led a delegation of my people (Otuche) in Ogbaru Local Government Area of Anambra State to pay a courtesy and thank you visit to him after pardoning Dim Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu in 1982. “After Dim Chukwuemeka Odimegwu Ojukwu returned from exile in Ivory Coast in 1982, after President Shagari had granted him pardon, we (the Otuche people) had a meeting here in Lagos and decided that we are going to write a very good letter of appreciation to President Shagari for granting Ojukwu pardon despite the pressure not to do so from some quarters as we were so grateful that we decided to personally pay the

president a visit and express our gratitude to him. “As at that time, I was an Advert Manager at Punch Newspapers and my people came to my office and we constructed a very powerful letter and through my contact, we able to have a date to meet with President Shagari. “On the day of the visit, the six of us selected to go and pay the visit gathered and we went to his residence in Ikoyi. When we arrived, we were ushered in to the reception and made to sit down and be comfortable. “In that serene and quite environment, you wouldn’t know that people reside there and in no distant time, President Shagari emerged and the first thing he said was “Please gentlemen, pardon me and my Cigarette” which is a mark of humility and acknowledgement that it is not everybody that smokes or likes cigarette smoking. “Meanwhile, the Chairman of the Ochuche Union then was the late Vincent Abokor. I was selected to lead the delegation because I was older than the chairman and being somebody who is somehow exposed. “As the President received us warming, I read the letter we brought and he was happy and before you could say jack, he gave sign people started coming from left right and centre to entertain us,” Prince Oduah explained. “One thing that most people did not actually know particularly those who are not from Anambra is that Ikemba’s mother who we call “Mama Kaduna” is from Ochuche. “So, Ikemba is our daughter’s son and my people love their grandchildren and can go to any length in identifying with them provided that they do not find themselves on the wrong of the law,” Prince Oduah explained. “One thing that I want you to understand is that the Otuche people, the Ogbaru, Ndi Anambra, Ndi Igbo and people of goodwill all over the world will remain eternally grateful to the late President for granting pardon to the late Ikemba Odumegwu Ojukwu. It wouldn’t have been possible if some other people were to be in the saddle,” Prince Oduah declared. “He granted pardon to late Ikemba because he believed that in order to bring everybody part of the country together and for them to feel a sense of belonging; there is need to grant pardon to Ikemba which was one thing that Ndi Igbo so much desire at that time. That singular action shored up his image in old Imo and Anambra State which was being controlled by the then Nigeria Peoples Party (NPP) led by late Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe. “That is the reason the National Party of Nigeria (NPN) gubernatorial candidate in Anambra State then, the late Christian Chukwuma Onoh, won the 1983 election because before then NPP was in-charge of both Imo and Anambra State. “As you can see, since the demise of Shagari, it has been testimonies garlour of his good works. This is not a case of our culture not saying bad about the dead. Shagari was a good man. He was one person that believes in fairness and equity hence, his support for his vice president, the late Dr. Alex Ekwueme to take over from him even many years after he has exited power. “He was a well-respected father of the nation. We will greatly miss him but the good thing is everybody is talking good of him,” Prince Oduah said. Meanwhile, the veteran sports ad-

Nigerian wrestlers face Herculean hurdles in global requirements

ministrator has warned those whose stock in trade is to foment trouble in Nigerian Football to stay clear or else they will regret their actions. He explained that there is need for all hands to be on deck to move the game forward in the country than to stoke fire that will engulf the beautiful game. “I want to use this opportunity to warn those whose stock in trade is to stoke the fire of crisis in Nigerian Football to desist or be ready to face the consequences of their ignoble actions. “I was saddened on Friday night when I was listening to the 10 O’clock news on Television Continental (TVC) where it was announced that as a part of sports headline that a Court Order of Warrant of Arrest has been issued against the President of the

NFF, Amaju Melvin Pinnick and four others. “On hearing that, I became curious and I wanted to know what it was all about. As I waited to hear the full story about the purported warrant of arrest against Amaju and four other NFF’s members, the sports presenter never mentioned the story again when he returned from the short break for station to play an advert jingle. “I was wondering what must have happened because the headline rose my curiosity but when nothing was said about the story, I knew that somebody somewhere is trying to fly a kite. I, therefore, warn again that trouble makers in Nigerian Football should stay clear and allow the NFF to do their jobs,” Prince Oduah admonished.

IGERIAN wrestlers have been informed that they face steep obstacles and expectations that they will have to overcome in order to gain global recognition this year. The hurdles have been outlined by the world governing body, which stated that the Nigerian grapplers must attend world championships, continental contests and ranking series. It is only through these routes that the wrestlers would be able to gain points on world rankings after United World Wrestling (UWW) Bureau approved new regulations for the 2019 Ranking Series. World silver medalist, Odunayo Adekuoroye is the most ranked Nigerian wrestler, 9th, in women’s wrestling 57kg cadre, while Commonwealth champion Blessing Oborududu, is ranked 12th in the 68kg. Two-time commonwealth champion, Aminat Adeniyi is ranked 17th in the 62kg, while Blessing Onyebuchi is rated 17th in the 76kg. UWW’s changes to the 2019 Ranking Series centered around exposure, participation and progress at world and continental championships. The bureau stated in part: “The 2018 World Championships results are the basis of the rankings, as each year the world championships results will be the first points for the following year. “The seeding process for the World Championships and Olympic Games will now also include a field of the top four wrestlers in each weight.

Nigeria ranked 6th in African handball national teams’ ratings

HE latest International Handball Federation (IHF) has placed the country’s national handball team at 46th in the world and sixth in Africa, in its latest global and continental ranking. The junior team are 38th in the World and 4th in Africa, but the under-18 male and female teams were not ranked due to the lull in activities during the past year. The Under-20 team qualified for the Junior World Cup in Spain after finishing in third position at the Africa Junior Nations Cup in Marrakesh Morocco. The top five male African teams are: Egypt (15th in the world), Tunisia (17th in the world), Algeria (21st in the world), Morocco (35th in the world) and Angola (42nd in the world). For the ladies, Egypt maintain number one spot in Africa and seventh in the world, while Tunisia and Algeria are second and third in Africa. They are also 17th and 25th in the world with 1,447 and 1,425 points respectively, Angola is fifth in Africa and 43rd position in the World. Meanwhile, Handball Federation of Nigeria (HFN) secretary-general, Mohammed Maigidasanma has disclosed that various levels of the country’s national teams will be very busy this year. While also stating that the federation will organise many events on the domestic scene, Maigidasanma dis-

closed that the country’s male youth team will be in Spain for the World Junior Championship in July. Maigidasanma also disclosed that the Nigerian team earned their spot at the championship after winning the African version last year. He said the Nigerian teams will be ready for the qualifiers of the African Games in March at a yet to be announced March, while the competition proper holds September in Morocco. Maigidasanma added that the first phase of the Prudent Energy Handball League, would hold at in Abuja from March 30 to April 14, while the second phase will hold later in the year in Lagos. He also said that Lagos would host the National U-18/21 Male and Female Handball Championship from March 7-14, while National U12 and 15 will come up in August at a yet to be decided venue.

He also stated that the Under 18 team will play at the World Youth Championship in Macedonia in August. He noted that both teams would be ready for the tournaments as they hope to do Africa proud in Spain. “We were excited that the teams would be at World Championship to showcase Nigerian handball to fans. “When the qualifiers started last year in Niger Republic, the HFN ensured that the best players were assembled to deliver the tickets. “Despite all odds, both teams qualified for the World event and hopefully they will do the country proud at the championship. “It is also exciting to note that handball will return to the velodrome in Abuja. “The venue hosted the sport in 2003 when Nigeria hosted the African Games and I am sure clubs will be looking forward to play at the venue.”

The Oracle Today Wednesday January 16, 2019

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I don’t expect Joshua’s fight to ever happen – Fury By MADUABUCHI KALU, with agency report

‘C

ALL it April Fool’ you may not be wrong as it concerns the much publicized fight between Nigerian born British heavyweight boxing champion, Anthony Joshua and his compatriot and former heavyweight champion, Tyson Fury as they bout is not likely going to see the light of the day if the statement credited to Fury is anything to go by. It is recalled that Fury who is billed to fight Deontay Wilder this year has been boasting how he is going to consign Joshua to the history books when he takes on in an all British heavyweight bout but he has made U-turn Sunday saying he does not expect that the bout will ever happen. Then the question is why all the noise about fighting Joshua who holds the three belts in the three out of the four belts in the heavyweight cadre? According to the lineal heavyweight champion 270-1 (19) disclosed that he doesn’t expect to face Joshua 22-0 (21) any time during his career. It is noted that the 30-yearold is coming off a controversial draw against WBC champion Deontay Wilder 40-0-1 (39) that saw the big Brit twice climb off the canvas including in the 12th and final round after being dropped heavily by a right hand-left hook combination from the big-hitting American. “I’ve already beat Wilder, so that’s one day,” Fury told BT Sport. “And I’ll do the same to

•Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury

Joshua if given the chance. But I don’t think it’s going to happen.” Even if the fight was to happen, Fury gives the undefeated Olympic gold medallist zero chance of success. “I’m sorry to disappoint the sports fans, but Joshua, even with two hammers in each hand, could never beat Tyson Fury and they know that,” he said. “They know that. They’re not silly.” Joshua, 29, is scheduled to return to the ring at Wembley Sta-

dium on April 13 although recent rumours have him abandoning the London venue in favour of a New York match-up against undefeated Brooklyn banger Jarrell ‘Big Baby’ Miller 23-0-1 (20). Fury subscribes to the notion that Joshua’s promoter Eddie Hearn of Matchroom Boxing is keeping him away from the tough fights in the division. “And it’s a business as well,” continued Fury. “So they’re not going to take the fight, simple as. “They may say they’ll take the

fight and talk about and then fight somebody else, like they keep doing. “That fight ain’t gonna happen. So I’m not holding my breath at all.” Meanwhile Fury’s promoter Frank Warren has revealed negotiations are underway for Fury to face Wilder again in the United States. “We’re trying to make that fight at the moment, everyone wants the fight and most importantly the fighters want it,” Warren said.

Australian Open Victory, greatest of my career – Serena Williams

ERENA Williams, who has claimed 23 grand slams during an illustrious career has ranked Tuesday’s Australian Open first-round rout of Tatjana Maria as the “greatest win of her career.” The former world No1 and this year’s 16th seed Williams flexed her muscles in a 6-0, 6-2 demolition of Maria at Melbourne Park. Williams was back in Melbourne for the first time since winning the 2017 Australian Open — the 37-year-old skipping last year’s event following the birth of her daughter. And veteran Williams, who is seeking an eighth Australian Open title, reveled in the result afterwards. “I think the last time I was here I was actually pregnant and playing at the same time,” Williams said in her on-court interview. “It was weird walking out here on my own this time. It is great to be back. That was literally the greatest win of my career.” Williams produced a merciless performance on Rod Laver Arena, sailing through to the second round in just 49 minutes. She completely overpowered

Nesiama named security consultant, Access Bank Lagos City Marathon

Maria, highlighted by a devastating 18-minute opening set, which yielded nine winners. Williams also tallied 24 points compared to Maria’s five, before her beleaguered opponent managed to snare two games in the second set. In her post-match news conference, Williams — who refused to comment on last year’s infamous meltdown in the US Open final —

told reporters: “I didn’t make too many unforced errors. “She’s a tricky player. Could have been easily a 6-3, 6-4 match or three-set match. She’s been able to beat top players, number one and two, so she knows how to play. I think always when I have a tougher round or I know someone that’s really good, I really want to be focused, and then that was really helpful for me today.”

Lobi Stars players may protest unpaid match bonuses

NDICATIONS are strong that players of Lobi Stars of Makurdi who are currently flying Nigeria’s flag in the CAF Champions League may resort to peaceful protest over match bonuses owed them by the management of the club. Daily Trust can report authoritatively that the players are yet to be paid the bonus for their convincing home win against former champions, Mamelodi Sundowns of South Africa in their opening group A match played last Friday in Enugu. The yet to be paid match bonus makes it three the number of winning bonuses Lobi Stars players are being owed since they started their campaign in the CAF Champions

League. An official of the club who spoke to Daily Trust on condition of anonymity said the vice-chairman of the club, Mike Idoko is waiting for CAF to pay Lobi Stars qualification money before the bonuses would be paid. The official also said it is only the vice-chairman of the club who is in a better position to answer questions concerning finances of Lobi Stars. He, however, said the management of the club is doing everything possible to motivate the players ahead of the second group match with ASEC Mimosa of Cote d’ Ivoire on January 19 in Abidjan. “It is true the players are not happy that their match bonuses have

AVY Commodore Omatseye Nesiama (retd), has been appointed as the security consultant to the 4th Access Bank Lagos City Marathon scheduled for Feb. 2. He is to oversee the security affairs of the IAAF sanctioned Access Bank sponsored annual 4th edition of the Lagos City Marathon. Nesiama, who headed the security committee for the first and second editions of the 42km race, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Sunday in Lagos that he would put his expertise in security to ensure quality services. Nesiama, who was visibly absent at the third edition said that he was back to run with the templates developed for the first and second editions. “I could not take part in the third edition because I was engaged in some other critical ventures. “But, I am back to run with the template developed for the first two editions that brought all relevant security stakeholders on the same page,” he said. It was reported that the first and second editions in the area of security were adjudged to have met international standard. No fewer than 5,000 marathoners from about 45 countries have registered for the 2019 race. Nesiama, who headed the security committee for the 2018 Confederation of African Athletics (CAA) Championships held in Asaba, said that security for the marathon would be top-notched. He specifically appreciated the Lagos State Police Commissioner who gave him good cooperation in the first two editions. As part of preparation toward organising a hitch-free competition, Nesiama said that a crucial meeting with heads of security agencies in the state has been fixed for Jan. 16. “There will be a crucial meeting on Wednesday in order to fine-tune strategies for protecting participants in the event,” he said. Nesiama is a renowned security expert for major sports events and has managed the security of all Athletics Federation of Nigeria’s competitions from 2009 to 2017. He was a one time Deputy Director of Naval Intelligence and a Counter Terrorism fellow of the George C Marshall Centre for Security Studies in Germany. Apart from security, Nesiama is the only Nigerian certified and licensed International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) Athletes Manager. He is an IAAF Lecturer and a CAA International Technical Official. He is also a member of the CAA Technical and Competitions Commission.

not been paid but there is no crisis in our camp. We are all focused on our upcoming match with Asec Mimosa. “I am not in a position to explain why the bonuses have not been paid but I think our vice-chairman is waiting for CAF to pay the group stage qualification money,” he said. One of the key players in the team also confided in our reporter that attention is on the match in Abidjan on Saturday but if things do not change, a peaceful protest would be necessary. “We do not want to be distracted so we are focused on the match against Asec. However, we may have to cry out if this situation per•Commodore Nesiama (Rtd). sists,” he said.

WEDNESDAY January 23, 2019

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A break from ASUU and orthodox

hat would happen if the Nigerian government proscribed ASUU, NASU, NANS and their cousins in polytechnics and colleges of education? What if, in a bid to prevent them from regrouping (as they did in 1988 by taking new names), the government outlawed unionism in all its forms in tertiary institutions? In terms of learning and teaching, little would change in the public institutions. Individual lecturers unencumbered by the demands of unions won’t refuse to teach. Nor is anyone likely to resign: in fact, they would be more dedicated to their duties if private consultants got hired to manage the institutions and discipline erring staff members. Not that I disagree with the academics and non-academics protesting bad working conditions and the near-total lack of research support in Nigeria’s tertiary schools. I’ve advocated education reform for three decades now. But the way good suggestions are ignored and good policies abandoned puts a question mark over Nigeria’s status as a nation. Let’s begin to tell ourselves the truth. What cannot be helped must be endured. Only a mad person keeps doing the same thing and expects a different result. Our universities and polytechnics are not what they should be – they’re glorified secondary schools. And there’s little the Nigerian government can do now to make them competitive on the global stage. Not even allocation of 100% federal and state funds to education can do any magic. The current 5 or 6% given to education is a clear indication that government is not interested in running schools; never mind the pretenders who negotiate with the unions whenever they embark on strike. I know education is a social service that should not be attached to profits, but an ideal university of the 21st century is one that produces job creators rather than jobseekers. Can’t we restructure them by privatizing universities’ faculties under a PPP (public-private partnership)? As many as seven new schools/institutes out of the University of Abuja could, for instance, be on offer for PPP. They could take titles such as “school of medicine and health sciences”, “institute of engineering”, “school of agriculture”, “college of arts and entertainment”, “writing and broadcasting school”, “ICT institute”, and “Biosciences college”. If we don’t need universities, we should discard them. If there must be universities, there must be industries to support their graduates. Professors must be professors – the real professors, to me, are entrepreneurs who have changed our world, not those who plagiarize or quote from books written by ancestors or their children’s age mates; some of them even fail to copy correctly. Our schools should no longer be populated by mainly dunces or become mere print-houses for worthless certificates. Many a PhD holder these days can’t write correct sentences or understand the most elementary things in their area of specialization. Most Nigerian varsities, which find their graduates “worthy in character and learning” at every convocation ceremony, are themselves cesspools of corruption. In a typical institution, you pay

GUEST COLUMNIST Aniebo

Nwamu

•ASUU President Prof. Biodun Ogunyemi

N2m or more to be employed as a lecturer or non-academic staff. Teachers harass female students sexually. Contracts are overinflated. You pay a bribe before your child could be admitted to read “prized” courses like Medicine, Pharmacy and Law. My friend’s son scored over 310 in last year’s UTME, but for him to be admitted at UNN, his father had to pay a N500, 000 bribe. He had lost admission the previous year because my friend refused to pay. The worry now should be that we’re churning out more than a million young people each year without preparing them for employment. Shouldn’t we stop deceiving ourselves by deemphasizing certificates? Before his son entered the university to study Medicine last year, my friend ensured he had honed his skills in repair of mobile devices, to enable him survive in the future. Graduates of Medicine now wait for years before securing a low-paying job, and there is no sign the future will be more favourable. The danger has been palpable since the 1970s, yet nothing concrete has been done. There are now private universities; are they better than public ones? The only difference is that you spend four years studying for a four-year programme (due to absence of strikes) while your mate in a public school could spend seven years. About 12 years ago, when I was hiring employees for a private firm, I discovered that many graduates from private universities were less employable than their counterparts from public universities. Why not? The lecturers hired by private schools are products of public schools. It’s already getting late for us in Africa to perform a major surgery on the education system. Orthodox teaching and

learning should, by now, have given way to work-based education to ensure that students transit smoothly from schools to workplaces. The path we’ve taken – manufacturing jobseekers but shrinking jobs, a convoluted system characterized by endless strikes and low productivity – can only lead to a blind alley. And when one finds himself in a hole, the wise thing to do is stop digging. The demands of university teachers of the 1980s are not different from the demands of the current ones. An agreement signed with ASUU in 2009 has become a signpost – a reason for the union to strike every year, terribly disrupting the academic calendar and frustrating young people. Countries like ours are in a cul-de-sac because you can’t convince a young person to forget about university education even with all its inadequacies. The youngsters they have no alternative anyway. None of Bill Gates, Steve Jobs, Mark Zuckerberg and hundreds of other billionaires who dropped out of school is a Nigerian. Even across Europe and America, these days, many have been complaining about the failure of the education system to solve their problems; one can therefore imagine the depth of the trouble we Africans are in. Doing nothing shouldn’t be an option. Nor should negotiating with trade unions every year be. The internet and other technologies are changing the world in amazing ways; we either adapt or perish. Coming to terms with the failure of the education system should translate to taking drastic actions. Wise governments are putting on their thinking caps, fashioning out a better education system that could produce graduates that industries need. Incredible rates of

joblessness that have been the lot of many countries point to system failure. Nigeria’s flawed education and policy somersaults have to end. I propose that the unexploited talents of our people be merged with our education system to trigger a technology revolution that would bring both prestige and economic benefits to the country. Our experiments with polytechnics, monotechnics or innovative enterprise institutions have failed mainly on account of jaundiced policies, lip service, and non-continuity. Over 50 years ago, the people of southeastern Nigeria extracted oil and refined it to produce petrol and kerosene in their kitchens. They built rockets, airstrips, armoured tanks, cars, and bombs. Faced with necessity, Nigerians of the 21st century can achieve similar wonders. This feedingbottle mentality brought on by oil has to stop. All that is needed is a benevolent leadership that doesn’t lack the will to do what is right. When, last year, Donald Trump said “if you don’t have steel, you don’t have a country”, I remembered Ajaokuta Steel Complex that has turned a white elephant project – a project that has consumed billions of dollars over a 45-year period and yet unable to produce a strand of metal. What kind of country is this? Importing things it has in abundance and unable to exploit its God-given resources. Yet the creative energies of our youth are unmatchable. They now seek expression in the arts -- in books, in Nollywood, in music and other forms of entertainment. During a visit to auto-mechanic villages and computer villages, art and craft shops, you can’t help but wonder why Nigeria wastes its talent. School curricula have been changed several times in a bid to make students transit smoothly from schools to jobs. There was the 6-3-3-4 system started over 30 years ago. Now some 35 new courses aimed at making secondary school leavers entrepreneurs have been introduced on paper. It is failing already like the 6-3-3-4 system. Who will be teaching whom? I aspire to be among those that will lead the next successful revolution in the education sector. The next generation should be pointed toward a practical education system that will lead to jobs. I say more in an eBook, Schools and Jobs of the Future: Some Thoughts on Career-Focused Education, now on Amazon Kindle. When I hypothesize about scrapping ASUU and others, I mean it. Things might appear hopeless for a while, but we would adjust. Necessity is the mother of invention. An entrepreneur could establish the school of their dream without seeking validation from the National Universities Commission (NUC) or other failed regulators. Does it matter if the certificates issued are not recognized by the NUC or any government? Will it matter if graduates from the practicaloriented institution are excluded from the NYSC? The market holds all the aces. Employers would choose those with practical experience before choosing those with bags of fogged theories in their brains. You can’t beat excellence in any field. •Nwamu is the CEO of Eyeway.ng. +234-8054100220 (SMS/WhatsApp only)

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.