Monday, May 11th, 2015 Edition

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Monday, May 11, 2015 Rajab 22, 1436 AH

. . . putting the people first

APC, PDP trade words over Rivers, A/Ibom guber

>> pg 3

@pmlonline

Impeachment: Mu’azu begs IBB, Abdulsalami, monarchs to intercede >> pg 5

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N150 Vol. 16 No. 15

Bandits attack Zamfara community, kill 6 >> pg 8

Jonathan to ministers, aides

Prepare for hard times under Buhari l Says ‘friends abandoned me after defeat’

>> page 2

President-Elect, General Muhammadu Buhari (middle), with Northern elders during their visit to the president-elect, yesterday in Abuja.

Buhari: Change won’t come in a hurry 392 Days after Will the abducted Chibok schoolgirls ever be rescued?

Missing baby, 3, found with beggar, 70, in Ilorin

Photo: NAN

>> page 2

>> page 5

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PEOPLES DAILY, monday, may 11, 2015

News CONTENTS News 2-11 Editorial 13 Op.Ed 14 Letters 15 Politics 16-18 Business Stockwatch

19-22 23

S/Report 24-25 Feature 26 Education 28 Health 30

APC elders berate Senate leader over visit to Buhari - Page 15

Metro

32

Int’l 39 S/World

39

Digest 40 Sports 41 Columnist 48

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Buhari: Change won’t come in a hurry

By Umar Muhammad Puma

P

resident-elect, Muhammadu Buhari has asked both Muslim and Christian leaders to educate their constituencies that it is not possible to change the state of affairs of the country in a very short time.

Speaking when he received the Northern Elders Forum in Abuja yesterday, Buhari said it is practically impossible for his administration to turn the damage the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has done in the last 16 years within a short period of time.

“The biggest message is to try and persuade the people that it is not possible to change the state of affairs now, It took 16 years and in those 16 years, most of you know it better than myself, Nigeria earned revenue more than what it earned from 1914 till date “Buhari explained.

“Between then and now, and what we earned in-between and what is on ground. That is how efficiently the PDP managed Nigeria in the last 16 years. Now we have invariably inherited all the problems, especially in the

north east”.

He said that the people’s expectations must be tempered with some form of justice to the incoming administration.

“You know that we use to have Nigeria Airways, Nigeria shipping line, Nigeria Railways.

Where are they now? Where is the infrastructure?” the Presidentelect asked He said most of the world leaders he spoke with, including Barak Obama of the United States have all shown some kind of relief on his emergence, as President.

“I could feel the relief in their voices because they are people of conscience. Forget about religion, colour and development.

“They are people of conscience because they have reached a stage where they have stabilised their society and they are relatively secured both materially, physically and otherwise. They know we are in danger”.

Earlier, foremost elder statesman, Maitama Sule while speaking on behalf of the forum advised the President-elect to establish firmly, a good justice system that will be of benefit to

Nigerian citizens irrespective of where they come from, emphasising that the country will be governed well with a good justice system in place.

“With justice, you can rule Nigeria well. Justice is the key, irrespective of tribes, religion and race, justice must be done to who so ever deserve it; it is true that behind every crisis anywhere in the world is injustice and the solution to that is justice.

“We have come to congratulate you. We first of all

thank God, what has recently happened to Nigeria is an act of God, nobody can claim credit for it. Allah has done it for us, Allah has listened to our prayers and our pleas to bring about this change, a change for the betterment of all.”

He advised Buhari that when he formerly assumes power, he should not discriminate against any part of the country adding that the President-elect will be one of the greatest leaders Nigeria will ever have.

decision, that I must also be ready to pay for.”

“If you take certain decisions, you should know that even people close to you, may abandon you”.

“When Bill Clark took the decision to abolish minority rule in South Africa, even his wife abandoned him. But that decision is the reason why South Africa still stands today”.

“If we still had such a thing as the minority rule in South Africa; no one would have been talking about South Africa today”.

Although Jonathan did not specify why his aides would undergo persecution under the new administration of Gen. Muhammadu Buhari, there are indications that the President-elect’s determination to investigate and prosecute corruption on assuming power may have been at the root of the statement.

The President also regretted the actions of some of those people who betrayed him by their actions and words at the twilight of his administration and abandoned him.

He said “I have all the reasons to thank God. Very few of those in my age brackets have been that lucky. All my educations were on government scholarships I have not suffered lack not because I’m hardworking but by

God’s grace.

“When I look at the whole picture of my life up to when I became the president of this country, I say that if soldiers and police officers that have not received 0. 5 percent of the benefits that I have received from the state can lay their lives for this country; I should do anything in the interest of Nigeria including paying the supreme price.

“As long as live, I will continue to do my best for the state because the state has helped me as a person.

“Some people came to me and said this or that person is he not your friend that benefitted. Is it not your government that this person benefitted from? But this is what the person is saying. But I used to say worse statements will come. If you take certain decisions, you should know that those close to you will even abandon you at some point. And I tell them that more of my so-called friends will disappear. When F.W. De Clerk took the decision to abolish minority rule in RSA, even his wife divorced him. I hope my wife will not divorce me.

“If you take certain decisions, it might be good for the generality of the people but it might affect people differently. So, for ministers and aides who served with me, I sympathize with them, they will be persecuted. And they must be

ready for that persecution.

“Quoting Tai Solarin, may your ways be rough. To my ministers, I wish you what I wish myself. They will have hard times; we will all have hard times. Our ways will be rough.

“But we are happy the ordinary people appreciate what we did and that is most important. It’s not what the elite or the privileged few talk or say about you but what the majority of the Nigerian public think about your actions and inactions that matter. We came to Abuja peacefully and we are returning peacefully.

“Even for the election, we had people who supported us all over the country but things went the way they did because God wanted it that way for a purpose.

“We will continue to pray for the peace of the country and for the success of the incoming administration.

When the country is in good shape, people benefit. When things are going well, people are happy. You don’t need to know Mr President or governor. The issue is not about Jonathan or Buhari or any other person. The issue is how the government functions; stability, buoyant economy that will enable Nigeria to move forward and live happy. That is our interest that is my prayer point.”

Buhari

Jonathan to ministers, aides: Prepare for hard times

By Lawrence Olaoye & Evelyn Okakwu

P

resident Goodluck Jonathan has told those ministers and aides who served his outgoing administration to get ready for hard times and possible persecution in days ahead.

The President gave this charge yesterday at a thanksgiving and farewell service in his honour and his wife, Patience, at the Cathedral Church of the Advent Life-Camp, Gwarimpa, Abuja.

He however took consolation in the fact that his decision to concede defeat at the Presidential election was popular and well appreciated by the people.

Jonathan noted that the country has been good to him, having studied and graduated with government scholarships and given the opportunities to serve as deputy governor, governor, vice President and President of the country.

He said he could do anything for a country that had given him so much in life; adding that paying the supreme price for certain decisions, was not an exception.

“Some hard decisions have their own consequences no doubt; deciding to run the government in such a way that has stabilised certain processes; such as the electoral process is a very costly

PAGE 3

PEOPLES DAILY, monday, may 11, 2015

News

APC, PDP trade words over Rivers, Akwa Ibom guber polls

By Ikechukwu Okaforadi

T

he governorship election results in Rivers and Akwa Ibom states may be cancelled by their respective election tribunals, following the allegations that the winners of the polls in the two states polled number of votes which is far more than the total number of voters accredited by card readers in the states.

This has therefore triggered off fresh controversy over the election results between the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers and Akwa Ibom states respectively.

Reports by Premium Times and Sahara Reporters indicate that the governorship elections in the two states are characterized by heavy irregularities, including that the number of votes polled by

the winners in both elections is above the number of voters accredited by the card readers deployed by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in both states.

For instance, in Rivers state, the winner of the elections, Nyeson Wike, polled 1,029,102 votes, whereas only 292,878 voters were accredited for the election in the state.

However, the Rivers State PDP has insisted that the report published online by the Premium Times and Sahara Reporters were not true, but the leadership of APC in the state has insisted that the report was true and factual.

The State Publicity Secretary of the PDP, Samuel Nwanosike, reportedly said on Saturday that the APC is sponsoring the reports against his party to discredit the poll results.

He said his party would

not panic, adding that the PDP would emerge victorious at the tribunal.

“What makes up accredited voters are those cards that were verified, authenticated and those that were verified and not authenticated. If the card is verified and authenticated, it would read in the machine as being successful.

“If a card is verified as INEC card and it is not authenticated, it would show red; it would decline. At that point, INEC said one should use the incident form to accredit the person. A lot of such incidents happened and people used incident forms to get accredited and vote”, he said.

However, the State Publicity Secretary of the APC, Chris Finebone, while reacting to the above explanation, said the state leadership of APC was already aware of the irregularities in the results, and is already taking

actions to taking measures to ensure that the results are cancelled at the tribunal.

He said told journalists that the INEC in Abuja had obliged the legal team of the state APC the information that there was over voting in the poll result of the state.

He said, “Because of the position we occupy, some of us are not expected to put out certain information just like that. But I am happy that this information has gone viral. But I can assure you that we knew this close to two weeks ago when the information was obliged our legal team.

“The legal team of the State APC was privy to this information that is currently online. But we have our systematic way of managing information, especially critical information like this.

That was why you probably did not hear it from us”, he was

L-R: Bishop of Enugu Anglican Communion Church, Most Rev Emmanuel Chukwuema, Primate of All Nigeria Anglican Communion, Most Rev. Nicholas D. Okoh, wife of Primate, Mrs. Nkasiobi Okoh, President Goodluck Jonathan, First Lady, Mrs. Patience Goddluck Jonathan, Executive Secretary of the Nigeria Christian Pilgrimage Commission ... Commission (NCPC), Mr. John Kennedy Opara, and others after the thanksgiving and farewell service in honour of President Goodluck Jonathan and his wife Mrs. Patience, yesterday at the Church of Nigeria Anglican Communion in Abuja.

Photo: Joe Oroye

NASS leadership: Act fast on zoning formula- Kwankwaso tells APC

From Edwin Olofu, Kano

G

overnor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso of Kano State has advised the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to act fast in resolving the zoning formula for the leadership of the National Assembly, saying “any delay can make the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) form the leadership of the assembly in an unusual manner.”

Speaking to journalists at the state government house yesterday, KwanKwaso said

though APC is working on the zoning formula for the leadership positions, the party should act fast and come out with acceptable guidelines for the zoning, adding that if delayed, it could be messup and the party might not achieve the expectations of the people.

Kwankwaso, who warned the party to avoid what happened on the opposition PDP in 2011, also noted that the issue of leadership in the assembly is very important which the party should consider.

“I advise the national leadership of APC to act fast

before It is too late in the zoning formula for the national assembly leadership. APC should consider that the issue of leadership of the National Assembly is very important. I also advise the party to avoid making mistakes as the PDP in 2011. I know they are working on it (the zoning formula), but let it be fast.” he said The senator-elect for Kano central also advised that the leadership zoning formula should favour everybody in order to maintain the party’s status quo, noting that the APC would form the leadership of the assembly

because it has the majority of the membership.

“I am hopeful the APC would form the leadership of the assembly. This is because, in normal circumstance, the majority forms the leadership. But in the event the minority form the leadership, that would be unusual” He added The former defence minister also cleared the air on the rumours that he was vying for a ministerial appointment in the oncoming administration, saying that he has never discussed such an issue with anybody.

reported to have said.

In Akwa Ibom state, a source who does not want to be mentioned, said the party was already aware of the irregularities, adding that they are working with the party national leadership to ensure that justice is done to the situation.

Kaduna’s N100bn debt profile is scary – Uba Sani

By Muhammad Puma

A

member of the Kaduna State Transition Committee, Malam Uba Sani, has described as worrisome the debt profile of the state, saying it is unjustifiable.

Speaking to newsmen in Abuja at the weekend, Malam Uba said the committee was shocked to discover that the state is indebted to the tune of over N100 billion. He said the mess on ground “is simply unprintable”.

He lamented that part of their findings showed reckless expenditure and mismanagement of resources by the outgoing government of Kaduna state.

While comparing the indebtedness of Lagos state with that of Kaduna State, he said Lagos has used its debt to execute meaningful projects.

He explained that unlike Kaduna, Lagos seems more determined to generate revenue and could pay back its debt.

He said with a revenue base of N28 billion monthly, Lagos has what it takes to settle all its debts. He noted that in the case of Kaduna, it is hard to say even N1 billion could be generated monthly.

Malam Uba, who is also the Head of sub-committee on projects, assured the people of the state that governor-elect, Malam Nasir Ahmed El-Rufai is equal to the task of fulfilling his electoral promises. He explained that the governor-elect has track record of transforming even the most complicated government agencies, while stressing that “Malam would not disappoint the masses, who donated N1,000 each to support his campaign and followed up with their votes”.

Malam Uba Sani noted that elRufa’i’s pedigree was also attested to by president-elect General Muhammadu Buhari, who said during campaigns that his support for El-Rufai’s candidature was because he is capable, committed and honest in the discharge of his responsibilities.

Malam Uba said by the time the El-Rufai administration gets down to business, the challenge of unemployment, collapsed industries and official corruption would be a thing of the past. He said based on the manifesto of the incoming administration, there will be economic diversification into the neglected area of agriculture, which has great potential for employment opportunities.

PEOPLES DAILY, monday, may 11, 2015

PAGE 4

Page 4 Report Can the incoming administration end communal clashes with one stroke?

President-elect Muhammadu Buhari

By Ochiaka Ugwu

T

he recent communal clashes that threatened the peaceful co-existence of some communities in the Plateau and Taraba States of the North-Central Nigeria, where over 100 innocent people, mostly women and children were hacked to death for no cause of theirs, apart from the ravaging Boko-Haram insurgency, was one of the most depressing misfortune that will continue to hunt us for a while.

This new development dashes the hope that peace may soon return to our society given the fact that we now have a common enemy in Boko- Haram which is right now threatening our corporate existence as a nation.

Overtime, every part of the nation has witnessed one form of communal clash or the other that have sent many to untimely grave, some were maimed to the extent that life became meaningless to them with millions displaced from their original homes.

It is however, frustrating that now that one expects us to be reasonable and rational in approach to issues of humanity by being our brothers’ keeper, we have rather descended down the ladder of civilization by just choosing to be our brothers’ killers. Indeed, those cords of mankind that God almighty in his infinity mercy bestowed on us are beginning to break apart beyond repay. Our hope of putting a stop to these wanton killings and madness called communal clashes which have made us suffer loss of lives and property are fading away with no solution in sight.

Rather than abate, the reckless destruction of lives and properties continue to spread and has now reached a crescendo with many of its perpetrators having no sign of humanity which have made them to treat their fellow human beings without compunction. It is a hopeless situation and an ill wind that blows nobody any good.

Curiously, it would be recalled that Nigeria has repeatedly witnessed conflicts of diverse degree since independence in 1960. And some of the resultant adverse effects it brought on the country’s populace were manifold loss of lives and property, investment opportunities, hunger and starvation, open violence, mass strike actions, senseless wars, hatred, unnecessary division, xenophobia, and various degrees of conflicts that is inimical to a community of descent people.

As a result, the nation has also suffered greatly from other forms of socio-economic disorder. So far, various accounts concerning communal crises raging across the country have triggered socioeconomic and physical twinge among the people. Farming population jettisoned their farm for fear of being killed by these blood thirsty humans who have lost every attributes of humanity in them.

Perpetuators or sponsors of this inhuman crisis have taken several dimensions, including religious, political, economic, social and ethno-linguistic perspective. It has been observed that the divisive interplay of politics, ethnics and religion in Nigeria has led to rising nationalism and militancy of various ethnic movements, seeking self-determination, local autonomy, separate identity and true federalism.

In the wisdom of analysts, however, the system of artificial

and arbitrary boundaries that splits ethnic groups among different local government areas and states in Nigeria is responsible for boundary disputes, neglect, oppression, domination, exploitation, victimization, discrimination, marginalization, nepotism, intolerance as well as the constant demand for secession by some groups.

It is also not out of place to say that communal crisis is fast becoming a recurring decimal in our polity and is not restricted to a particular part of the country.

The Plateau crisis which I can say to be the most prominent, although, people attribute its root cause to religion, at the last count have claimed over 5000 innocent lives and left thousands displaced; the boundary conflict between communities in most parts of the country has killed thousands and led to several more injuries.

Upon the fact that stakeholders in Peace and Conflict Resolution in partnership with both local and foreign collaborators have initiated a lot of peace process towards nipping the conflict in the bud, the menace keep on resurfacing in high magnitude. The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), the Institute of Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR), and the Security agencies have organized a series of seminars and conferences in an effort to offer a permanent solution to the issue relating to communal crises across the country and promote issues

“

of common interest. The effort not only brought about the some sanity in the polity, but also vital suggestions that will help to avert more deaths and loss of valuable property to communal clashes in the country.

It is advisable for the incoming All Progressives Congress (APC) led Federal Government to focus more on genuine reconciliation that will bring that much sought forgiveness and harmony that will convey the people together under one real platform and destiny that will promote the national interest. The President-Elect, Gen. Muhammadu Buhari should lead the way by first reconciling with his perceived political enemies or opponents by accommodating them in whatever way he feels they can be relevant for peace building in the society that will usher in a new nation, a land that will be a shining light not only in the continent, but in the entire world. Governments at all levels, with Gen. Buhari as the commander-in-chief should first identify the dynamics of the conflicts, as two incidents, even if occurred in the same area, may not be viewed from same sensitivity. In view of that, there is need for the incoming government to conduct a critical review and analysis on the existing conflicts to be able to forecast and understand futuristic threats regarding the conflict.

Buhari as a retired General who has seen it all in arms conflict and an expert in curtailing spread of small arms which fuels most of these

Governments at all levels, with Gen. Buhari as the commanderin-chief should first identify the dynamics of the conflicts, as two incidents, even if occurred in the same area, may not be viewed from same sensitivity.

conflicts, as a matter of urgency should see to rigorous control on the supply and use of arms and ammunitions in the country. The not-too-good measures adopted by the law enforcement agencies have facilitated the outbreak of crises in the country as well as empowered independent warlords and ethnic militias to accelerate conflicts rather than finding peaceful resolution.

To achieve this within a short period of time, Buhari would require the involvement of the traditional rulers, community and village heads, the religious leaders, even the warlords themselves who are likely to be more informed on the root causes of the conflict. They also should know more about the affected community and could better push for peace negotiations and alternative ways of ending the conflict. This will help to attain post conflict reconciliation and peace building in the areas to bring mush needed sanity.

Injustice has being said to be causing a lot of conflict in the world today. In the light of this, Gen Buhari as the leader must ensure equitable and equal distribution of power, wealth, status and responsibilities among all ethnic groups in the country. Equal rights and justice must be reinstalled in our judiciary system as national objectives cannot be achieved in zero consideration for individual equal right and justice.

Although, much is expected from the incoming administration, but the truth is that Buhari as the case may be, will need the corporation of all to achieve anything tangible. However, there must be attitudinal change in our mindset and orientation towards others. There must be institutional, operational and structurally fortifications that will assist the people recuperate confidence in the governments. It is only through this way that Nigeria will say goodbye to communal clashes that have ravaged the nation for long.

PAGE 5

PEOPLES DAILY, monday, may 11, 2015

News

Impeachment: Mu’azu begs IBB, Abdulsalami, monarchs to intercede From Yakubu Mustapha, Minna

N

iger state governor Dr Muazu Babangida Aliyu has sought the intervention of the traditional leaders and elder statesmen in the state to intervene in the ongoing moves by the lawmakers to impeach him.

Aliyu who has less than three weeks to end his tenure, fearing being disgraced out of office had also last week sought court intervention to halt his impeachment.

Peoples Daily investigation revealed that despite the governor’s quick rush on Thursday last week to High Court seeking injunction after a failed meeting with the new Speaker, Hon. Isah Kawu, did not relent in his effort but has gone ahead to seek the intervention of the state traditional council led by its chairman, Etsu Nupe Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar and the elder statesmen in the state.

Subsequently, a Minna high court has issued an order restraining the Niger state House

Group urges Nigerians to hold govt. accountable for promises

By Doyin Ojosipe

N

igerians have been urged to develop the habit of holding its government accountable to promises made, by actively participating in the governance of the country.

While briefing newsmen in Abuja last week, Barr. Saeeda Saad, Project Lead and Organizing Secretary of the Initiative for Positive Change in Nigeria (IFPCN) argued that Nigerians have in the past 16 years left the governance of their country in the hands of the few who took advantage of the their position to milk the country dry, adding that the outcome has not only enslaved Nigerian citizens but has left them in abject poverty.

In her words, “Nigerians watched helplessly while a few who were saddled with positions of trust betrayed the trust, abused their offices and embarked on self aggrandizement ventures which collectively did great disservice to the nation.”

She maintained that the outcome of the just concluded election has only proven how tired Nigerians are with the status quo and so desired a change, adding that it was a wakeup call to incoming government and politicians to either live up to expectations or risk being voted out like the outgoing government.

of Assembly from commencing any impeachment process against Governor Muazu Babangida Aliyu following the recent change of leadership at the state Assembly.

Report has it that the governor was still not comfortable since the removal of his only reliable Speaker, Barrister Adamu Usman who served under Governor Aliyu as Arthony General and Commissioner of Justice that has been described as a stooge to Aliyu in the house and was impeached by the two third members of the Assembly.

Although, the former Speaker made it cleared the day he was impeached that Governor Aliyu should be prepared for a show down with the members who were targeting his impeachment.

“What it means now is that Babangida Aliyu should get himself prepared because I advised him before hand on this matter. So, anything that comes out of it, he should get prepared” the ex Speaker said.

It was reliably gathered that the governor has also sought the intervention of the two elder

statesmen and former military president and head of state respectively, General Ibrahim Badamosi Babangida and General Abdulsalami Abubakar appealing to them to save the situation for him in order not to be disgraced out of office as the governor of the state who has served for almost eight years.

The police in Niger state had averted the impeachment process of Governor Muazu Babangida Aliyu as the new Speaker Hon. Isah Kawu and other twenty Assembly members who were

tear gas last week while coming into the Assembly complex to begin sitting as promised.

The police and other security agents locked up the gate to prevent the people especially the Assembly members and its workers from entering even as they fired tear gas canisters all over the Assembly complex.

This was to prevent the new leadership from commencing impeachment of Governor Muazu Babangida Aliyu for not carrying members along and other misconducts as alleged.

Kwara state Governor, Alhaji Abdulfatah (middle), in a handshake with former VicePresident and chieftain of All Progressives Congress, Atiku Abubakar (right), during the governor’s visit to the former vice-president residence, yesterday in Jimeta-Yola, Adamawa state.

With them is Adamawa state Governor-Elect, Senator Umar Jibirilla Bindow (left).

Missing baby, 3, found with 70-year old beggar in Ilorin From Olanrewaju Lawal, Ilorin

A

three year old girl, Fatiah Mustapha who went missing on 26 March, 2015 at old Sawo Garage, Ilorin, Kwara State capital has been found with a suspect, a 70 years old woman, Zainab Alabi and a worshipper at the “Ori-Oke Basin, Ilorin.

Our Correspondent learnt that the suspected woman Kidnapper, whose name was given by the police on Sunday as Zainab Alabi had claimed that she found the girl lonely and after the crowd had dispersed decided to pick her up and use her to collect alms around the streets of Ilorin, Kwara state capital.

A reliable source at the Basin police station informed our correspondent that the suspected woman kidnapper, who later confessed that the missing girl was not her granddaughter, said she used the income generated from the street begging to buy her cloths, feeding and use the remaining.

While speaking with our correspondent, two relatives of the girl’s mother, Mrs Maryam Abdulganiyu and Abdulhakeem Alabi disclosed that the grandfather of Opeyemi, Mallam Isa who went for spiritual help at the Ori-Oke Basin found the three

years old girl with a worshipper who always brought her to the mountain and claiming that she is her granddaughter.

Mrs Maryam Abdulganiyu who informed journalists about the incident, said three days before presidential election, their daughter went missing and they notified many Mosques, police stations in Ilorin and police headquarters, Kwara state command.

She said that for good three days, they were moving from one house to another with town criers announcing the missing of the three years old girl.

Abdulganiyu disclosed that on Thursday, May 7, 2015, Mallam Isa, the grandfather of Opeyemi went to the same Ori-Oke and saw the 70 year old woman with the girl.

“He told one of the elders on the mountain that the girl in the hand of the woman that is coming to the mountain was the cause of his coming to the mountain to seek spiritual help on how to find her.”

According to the Mrs Abdulganiyu, the woman denied the allegation that she kidnapped the girl and insisted that the girl is her granddaughter.

She added that after Mallam Isa alerted the police station, three suspects were arrested stressing that at the police, she had confessed that she found the three years old girl but out of pity, picked her up for street begging and use the money to take care of her.

The Police Public Relation Officer (PPRO),Kwara State Police Command, ASP Ajayi Okasanmi who confirmed the arrest of the suspect, Zainab Alabi said the three years old girl had been released to her parent and the suspect will remain in the police custody.

Principals task FG, states on inclusiveness in curriculum formulation, implementation

By Stanley Onyekwere

A

ll Nigeria Confederation of Principals of Secondary Schools (ANCOPSS), are calling government at all levels to ensure improved school community involvement in educational curriculum designing and implementation, in order to be able attain its maximum realization in the country.

The principals decried that many schools lack functional

bodies such as the Parent Teachers Association (PTA) and Old Students’ Association, which they said hinders full curriculum implementation in secondary schools, adding that not every state has successfully queued into the expectations of the ongoing 9-3-4 system of education.

ANCOPSS, in a communiqué issued at the end of its 58th Annual National Congress, on Friday, in Abuja, observed that insufficient involvement of the

school community in curriculum designing and implementation has kept her off from the full understanding of the rationale behind the nation’s curriculum reform.

According to the communiqué read by the National President of ANCOPSS, Fatima Abdulrahman, there is no enough community involvement in curriculum development, which often hinders its full implementation.

PAGE 6

News

Pastor wants Buhari to implement anti-graft laws From Olanrewaju Lawal, Ilorin

T

he General Overseer of Royal Covenant Assembly in Nigeria,Pastor David Bola Paimo has urged the President elect,General Muhammadu Buhari to ensure that anti-graft laws are fully implemented.

Paimo, who stated this while speaking with journalists ahead of 8th nationwide convention of the Assembly in Ilorin at the weekend, noted that the antigraft laws must not be waived for any public servant, citizens and suspects caught by the agencies in charge if federal government want to eradicate the graft in the country.

Paimo who also agitated for attitudinal change among Nigerians, especially the teaching of moral values in the churches and largest society said that there was confusion about what is wrong from the right things in the society.

The cleric observed that the 21st century churches have been deceived by not seeking for Gods favour instead; many were busy pursing worldly things which have bedeviled the majorities.

While calling for full implementation of anti-graft laws, Paimo said “I want to look forward to see full implementation of anti-graft laws. I want to see our president; politicians have political will to execute these laws till last.

If a thief caught, or somebody killed another fellow human being, there should be no noise about it. We should not celebrate the incident, rather, the law must take if full implementation”.

While speaking on the recent concluded election, Pastor Paimo noted that it was the prayer of men of God in the country that was answered which make the nation united despite separation prediction in few quarters.

He said his church went into series of fasting and prayer before election was shifted which douse down the tension in the country.

The cleric who urged Christian leaders in various churches to emulate spirit of President Goodluck Jonathan for accepting defeat said, many communions, ministries were split because some leaders didn’t accept change policies and aggrieved parties split to start their own branches.

He appealed to Nigeria politicians to continue to show real love for the country by accepting to live in peace and harmony and avoid violence as means to settle political issues.

PEOPLES DAILY, monday, may 11, 2015

Buhari congratulates David Cameron on election victory

T

he President-elect, retired Maj.-Gen. Muhammadu Buhari, has sent a goodwill message to British Prime Minister, David Cameron, congratulating him on his victory in the just-concluded British elections.

This is contained in a statement released in Abuja on Saturday by Malam Garba Shehu, Director, Media and Publicity of the All

Progressives Congress Presidential Campaign Organisation.

In the statement, Buhari said he looked forward to collaborating with the British government led by Cameron, after his swearing-in on May 29.

“Nigeria and the Great Britain have enjoyed good relationships, and we look forward to developing even stronger ties,’’ the statement

quoted Buhari as saying.

It said that the President-elect also commended Cameron for the role that the British government played before, during and after the Nigerian elections.

“Britain, the U.S., EU, ECOWAS, AU and the UN have played vital roles in ensuring that democratic norms were adhered to during our elections.

“Their role in the smooth outcome of the just concluded Nigerian elections can never be over-emphasised,’’ the statement said.

It further that the Nigerian President-elect looked forward to furthering the ``special, warm and friendly relationships’’ between the government and people of Nigeria and the UK under Cameron. (NAN)

L-R: Niger state governor, Dr Mu’azu Babangida Aliyu, Jigawa state Governor, Alhaji Sule Lamido, and Emir of Kazaure, Alhaji Najib Adamu, during the inauguration of township roads named after the then G7 Governors, on Saturday in Dutse, Jigawa state.

Photo: NAN

Muslim clerics task lawmakers on fairness

From Femi Oyelola, Kaduna

T

he Council of Imams and Ulama has called on elected legislators from Kaduna state to imbibe the spirit of fairness as they go about performing their constitutional duty.

The chairman of the Council Sheik Usman Abubakar Baba- Tuni made the charge in his welcome

address at an interactive meeting with law makers at state and National Assembly held in Kaduna yesterday.

According to the cleric the legislators should at all time do their duties with clear intention and fear of Allah, knowing that they will be held accountable on the post they are occupying on the day of judgment.

Sheik Baba- Tuni also tasked the

legislators from the state to be wary of some law that some people may try to push into the National and State Assemblies to cause disharmony in the country.

“We as Muslims know that there are some things that are not acceptable to us, like the legalization of the gay marriage this is against our faith and culture so as the representatives of

Ekiti govt begins workers verification From Tope Musowo,Ado-Ekiti

V

erification of 48,977 workers in the Ekiti State public service will commence this week Tuesday and last till next week Monday, while payment of April salary will begin on Wednesday.

Special Assistant to the State governor on Public Communications and New Media, Lere Olayinka who made this known in a release issued on Sunday, added that the verification exercise was aimed at blocking close to N500 million being lost to ghost workers monthly through the e-payment system contracted to a private company by the immediate past administration in the State.

The governor’s aide disclosed that salary of April will be paid as workers are

verified, adding that; “Those insinuating that the verification exercise was meant to delay payment of April salary are just playing cheap politics because the arrangement is such that; the moment verification is concluded on daily basis, salary of those cleared will be paid.

“The implication of this is that those verified on Tuesday, May 12 will receive their April salary on Wednesday, May 13 while those verified on Wednesday will get paid on Thursday. By Friday, May 14, seventy percent of the workers would have received their April salary.”

Giving details of how the exercise will be carried out, Olayinka said; “From Tuesday to Wednesday, staff of core Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), Health Management Board (HMB) and six local councils will be verified at designated venues.

“The six local councils to be verified on Tuesday and Wednesday are Ado, Efon, Ekiti East, Ekiti South West, Moba and Oye while staff of Ise/Orun, Ikere, Emure, Ekiti West, Ido/Osi, Ikole, Ilejemeje and Irepodun/Ifelodun, Gbonyin and Ijero will be verified on Thursday and Friday.

“Also on Thursday and Friday, staff of Local Government Training School, Local Government Service Commission, Loans Board and Pension Board, as well as primary school teachers in Ado, Efon, Ekiti East, EkitiSouthWest,EkitiWest,Emure, Gbonyin, Ido/Osi local councils and State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) Local Government Education Authority (LGEA) Headquarter will be verified.”

the people and lawmakers who wish this country well you must be careful in dealing with such sensitive issues” He said The his own remark, the Secretary of the Council, Mallam Yusuf Yakubu Arrigasiyyu advised the lawmakers to always follow laid down procedures which includes scru t i n i z i n g candidates for appointments devoid of sentiments, sectionalism or any other devices.

Mallam Arrigasiyyu warned the lawmakers on external influence or interference at the same time ensuring adequate representation of those who elect them into office.

Speaking on behalf of the lawmakers, the Senator elect for Kaduna Central Comrade Shehu Sani thank the Islamic clerics for the interactive meeting because such coming together will enable them to be conversant with what the people who elected them desire from them.

Comrade Shehu Sani promised that the 8th senate will be vibrant and protect the interest of the masses, he however plead with Nigerians to be patient with the incoming government of General Muhammadu Buhari because the damages done by the government of President Goodluck Jonathan cannot be corrected in the next one hundred days.

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PEOPLES DAILY, monday, may 11, 2015

ADMINISTRATION OF WITHHOLDING TAX (II) The organizations making the payments are required to withhold tax from such payments and pay over the withheld amounts to their respective relevant Tax Authorities within 30days of receipt of payment or credit by the person or entity suffering the Tax. The relevant tax authorities to receive the WHT tax transactions made by companies is FIRS and for individuals and unincorporated bodies subject to Rules of Residence is SIRS or FIRS. PERSON LIABLE TO DEDUCT WITHHOLDING TAX The payer of withholding tax in respect of any of the activities covered under the withholding tax regime shall include company (Corporate or non-corporate), Government Ministries and Department, Parastatals, Statutory bodies, Institutions and other established organization approved for the operations of Pay As you Earn System.

. .

WHO IS TAXABLE

All Persons, Companies etc. who’s Incomes are liable to income tax, are subject to Withholding Tax.

However, exempt entities like Educational Institutions, Government Ministries, Parastatals and other Agencies of Government, are Agents for the collection of WHT. They are required to deduct WHT on any payment made to a taxable body and remit same to the relevant tax authority.

WITHHOLDING TAX IMPLICATION ON FOREIGN TRANSACTIONS Non Resident Companies/Enterprises The Revenue practice is that non-resident companies are not empowered to deduct any type of WHT. These categories of enterprises are practically outside the regulatory monitoring and control of the FIRS. It will be impracticable for Revenue office to inspect the accounting books of these companies in order to confirm due deduction and remittance of WHT. Double Taxation Agreement (DTA) Transactions that are ordinarily not liable to tax in Nigeria are not liable to WHT in Nigeria.

Thus contracts and supplies of goods and services performed entirely outside Nigeria by non-resident individuals are not liable to WHT. Nigeria has treaty agreements with about eight (8) countries and these countries are granted a reduced rate of WHT deduction, usually at 75% of the generally applicable WHT rate. 7.5%. These countries include UK, Northern Ireland, Canada, France, Belgium, the Netherlands, Pakistan, and Romania.

PERMANENT ESTABLISHMENT (PE) PRINCIPLE EXISTS UNDER NIGERIA TAXATION The rules construe a PE where: • The company has a ‘‘fixed base’’ in Nigeria.

• The company operates in Nigeria through a dependent agent authorized to conclude contracts or deliver goods on its behalf, • The company is executing a turnkey project in Nigeria, or • The operation between the company and its Nigeria affiliate does not appear to be at arm’s length.

• ‘‘Fixed base’’ implies some degree of permanence and will include: • Facilities, such as a factory, office, branch, mine, oil or gas well • Activities, such as building, construction,

assembly or installation • Provision of services in connection with the activities listed above.

. .. . .

PRINCIPLES OF PERMANENT ESTABLISHMENT

The rules construe a Permanent Establishment where:

The company has a ‘‘fixed base’’ in Nigeria.

The company operate in Nigeria through a dependent agent authorized to conclude contracts or deliver goods on its behalf,

The company is executing a turnkey project in Nigeria, or

The operation between the company and its Nigeria affiliate does not appear to be at arm’s length. ‘‘Fixed base’’ implies some degree of permanence and will include: Facilities, such as a factory, office, branch, mine, oil or gas well Activities, such as building, construction, assembly or installation Provision of services in connection with the activities listed above.

. .. .

OTHER TYPES OF INCOME NOT LIABLE TO WHT

Companies operating within the Free Trade Zones/Export Processing Zones

Insurance premium Turnover/Income from Dealership or Distributive trade

Telephone Bills are not subject to WHT APPLICATION OF WITHHOLDING TAX Sections of CITA and PITA that provides for the deduction of withholding tax at the applicable rates below.

Types of payment Applicable rates

Companies Individual Dividends, Interest, Rent 10% 10% Directors Fees 10% 10% Royalties 15% 15% Commission, Consultation,10% 5% Technical, Service Fees Management fees 10% 5% Construction/Building Contracts 5% 5% Contracts, other than outright sales and purchase of goods in the ordinary course of business 5% 5% Returns & Remittance Tax Returns are filed monthly with evidence of remittance and a detailed schedule of taxable transactions.

Submitted schedule should show the following details: Name of supplier Address Nature of Invoice payment Amount Rate @ Y% Tax Service Date Date • Returns for corporate suppliers should be filed within 21 days from end of month of transactions.

• Returns for non –corporate suppliers should be filed within 30 days from end of month of transaction.

• In practice, tax returns are filed in the same month they occur.

• Tax deducted should be remitted to the revenue in exchange for a receipt of payment.

• Tax is payable in the currency of the qualifying transaction.

Following payment and filing of returns, the revenue processes credit notes for the suppliers on whose income tax was deducted.

• Credit notes can be used in applying for tax credit against current and future tax liabilities (i.e. where it is not final tax) • Remittances are due to either federal or state tax authorities.

Remittances due to Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS): • Corporate entities, • Non-resident individuals,

• Members of the armed forces and police, • Resident of Abuja, • Foreign officers.

Remittances due to state internal revenue service (SIRS): • All other individuals / partnerships resident in the state.

• PAYMENT ON CURRENCY Section 64B of CITA empowers the tax authority that withheld tax must be remitted to the tax authority in the currency in which the deduction was made. This means that transactions made in foreign currency are to be remitted in the same currency and that the tax so withheld is to be remitted in the same currency. Simultaneously penalty for default would also be calculated in the same currency.

• HOW TO CLAIM WITHHOLDING TAX CREDIT (CREDIT NOTES) A taxpayer from whom tax has been withheld is expected to gain withholding tax credit notes from the relevant tax authority via the deducting organization. All withheld taxes are forwarded to the tax authority, which in turn records the credit against the tax payer’s account, with a schedule containing details of the contract or service, on which basis the tax authority issues a credit note.

Assessed tax and related charges are usually entered as debits in the taxpayer’s tax account, while he is expected to pay only the difference between his assessed tax and withholding tax credit at the time of filing their own returns.

• It is this credit note that a taxpayer uses as a set off against tax assessed within that year or if unutilized within that year can be applied based on the taxpayer request to transfer the credit balance in that year to offset or reduce debit balance of another year.

• In cases where there is an excess charge of WHT on a taxpayer, the 2007 amendments to CITA (Section 63 (7)) have even further empowered FIRS to refund proven excess withholding tax to any taxpayer within 90 days of filing a claim.

.. .

OFFENCES AND PENALTIES OFFENCES

Failure to withhold tax or Failure to remit or late remittance of the tax withheld

Non remittance of the tax withheld within the time limit stipulated by the Revenue.

PENALTIES a.

For Companies A fine of 200 percent of the tax not withheld or withheld but not remitted, plus interest at the prevailing commercial rate. b.

For Individuals & other Organizations A fine of the higher of N5,000 or 10% of the amount of tax due, plus the amount of tax deductible , or withheld but not remitted, plus interest at the prevailing commercial rate.

• Interest on Savings Account of less than N50, 000 paid by a Bank, is not subject to WHT. The WHT system has come to stay since it is a veritable source of revenue to Government. It enhances the collection efforts of Tax Authorities and it ensures that revenue is generated in advance.

It is therefore imperative that the system should continue to be improved upon in the light of modern tax administration procedure. Usually an advance payment of tax provides information that an income source has been identified through a third party. Such information being provided by the payer should be readily available for use in accessing a potential taxpayer. Field officers should always be ready to follow up on such information.

PAGE 8

PEOPLES DAILY, monday, may 11, 2015

News

Bandits attack community in Zamfara,Kill 6

From Ibrahim Sidi Muh’d, Gusau

U

nidentified group of bandits had last Friday invaded Gamawa village under Talata Mafara local government area of Zamfara state and machete six Fulani herdsmen to death living another four with various degree of injuries.

According to the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) of the state Command, DSP Sanusi Amiru, the attackers invaded the village for cattle

rustling within daytime on Friday when they fought with offensive weapons in efforts to clear their way for escape during which they killed six and injured another four Fulani herdsmen.

“They fiercely fought against those that resisted their nasty

aim, as a result of which they machete six to death and injured four”, Amiru report.

According to the Police authority, the bandits were chased by the Police team who arrived the village shortly after the attack, “Our men on crime

prevention mission had pursued the attackers to recovered large number of the rustled cows and sheep which were already handed back to the owners”.

“When the attackers noticed that Police were on their chase, they abandoned the stolen cows

Members of Women Missionary Union (WMU) led by Mrs. Grace Akanbi (left), during the service to mark the Nigerian Baptist Convention’s Mothers’ Day, yesterday at the Faith Baptist Church Federal Housing Authority, Lugbe, in Abuja.

Asaba residents decry frequent car battery theft From Osakhare Erese, Asaba

A

ngry residents of Asaba, the Delta State capital, especially vehicle owners have expressed concern over the increasing rate of car batteries theft in the city, and have sought the intervention of the gods of the land to expose those behind the acts.

While blaming it on the increasing insecurity level that is currently being experienced in the city, it was gathered that the battery thieves, who they say carry out their nefarious activity late in the night or very early in the mornings gain entrance into residential areas without any trace of burglary.

Our investigation revealed that the thieves, who carry out their activities with no trace of tampering with the door locks of their victims’ cars, neatly open the bonnet before stealing the battery.

The matter, according to investigation, has been made worse as to become almost a daily affair with innocent and unsuspecting vehicle owners losing their batteries to such thieves.

Two weeks ago, the battery thieves gained entry into a fenced compound along Governor’s Street and stole the batteries of four vehicles, including that of a civil servant attached to the Ministry of Information.

At the Direct Labour Agency area of the state capital, the residents who have continued to live in fear of the battery thieves said the way car batteries are removed remains a mystery to them. Every night, not less than two compounds are visited by the thieves who specialise in removing car batteries.

At Izuka Okolo Lane, DLA, the residents appealed to security agents to provide them security before the situation gets worse or gets out of control.

and sheep in the forest under Maradun local government area to flee, but I am assuring you that, they will not escape as all possible routes for escape were cordoned off for their arrest and prosecution”, the PPRO stressed.

Photo: Joe Oroye

Police arrest man for murder in Osogbo

T

he Police Command in Osun on Sunday said it had arrested one Olagbaju Tajudeen, 45, in connection with the murder of one Dare George during the April 11 governorship elections in Ile-Ife. The Police Public Relation Officer (PPRO), Mrs Folasade

Odoro, disclosed this in a statement in Osogbo.

The statement said Tajudeen was arrested on April 30, in Okerewe, Ile-Ife. It said a pump action gun, six live cartridges, 29 new cutlasses and one forest guard contractor harmer were recovered at the

suspect’s house.

Other items recovered include a sword, a wrap of weed suspected to be Marijuana, one unregistered Mercury villager bus and unregistered KIA Jeep.

It also said that Tajudeen had provided useful information that would assist the police to unravel

the circumstances surrounding the murder. It said the suspect had during investigation confessed that the single barrel gun and the 29 cutlasses were being kept in his booth for self defense.

The statement said anyone found involved in the case would face the wrath of the law. (NAN)

Zamfara: Lawmaker, gov driver’s fight over girlfriend heightens From Ibrahim Sidi Muh’d, Gusau

T

he Zamfara state embattled majority leader of the House of Assembly, honorable Salisu Musa Tsafe has seized a car earlier dashed to his alleged controversial girlfriend (Saratu Garba) after noticing that her faithfulness in love was in favour of his rival, Governor Yari’s senior driver, Malam Idris.

In a recorded phone conversation with the alleged voices of the house leader and the controversial girlfriend played in Hausa language, allegedly recorded by the girlfriend to be shared with some trusted friends and also made available to newsmen in Gusau, the state capital, the house leader has declared the cancellation of the car-gift made to comfort her living along with unspecified

huge amount of money.

“So you have collected back your car , and for your information, I will surely not return all the money you gave me even if you take me to court as you have whispered to my hearing, because I will not end in loss after my relationship with you”, queried Saratu.

She further defied Tsafe, saying she was virtually ready to defend herself before the court over the money, “I have confidence in my persuasive points available to convince the court that I deserve the money you dashed me, but for the car, keep going with it, and should forget the issue of money”.

“Yes, it is your fault for tactically refusing to encourage the anticipated mutual understanding between me and you, and I did not say I will take you to court for all the money I

dashed you. But for that matter, if you can recall I said I was coming to Gusau on Monday just to meet with you, which I did without the company of anybody, so that nobody would know what transpires between us, but you kept giving me numerous excuses by replying whether you were busy doing work at shop or another thing else”, challenged House leader.

The alleged voice of the girlfriend expressed why she was not happy with the lawmaker as he breached the agreement earlier made that nobody would have knowledge on who bought the car for her, unfortunately, she claimed that, one of his friends met her somewhere to congratulate her for being dashed with a car by the House leader.

The house leader persuasively swore in the good name of the Almighty God that, he did not

inform any of his friends about the car-gift for the girl unless if she leaked it to somebody very close to her that, she thought she has confidence that would not expose the secret by herself.

The lawmaker further gave his words of honour to her, saying, “How could I tell anybody that I bought car for you while multitude number of my relatives and close friends were desperately asking me for financial assistance even far less than what I was spending to make you comfortable, but they still remained unattended”.

Meanwhile, the state House of Assembly earlier last week, has directed its committee on ethic and privilege to investigate the true picture of the two fighting over rivalry on girlfriend that involved its Majority leader and the senior driver to Governor Abdulaziz Yari Abubakar.

PEOPLES DAILY, monday, may 11, 2015

Page 9

News

Why I’m leading Cross River delegation to visit Buhari-Senate leader

By Umar Muhammad Puma

S

enate Leader, Victor Ndoma Egba has condemned attempts to politicise his decision to lead a Cross Rivers State delegation to the President elect, Gen. Muhammadu Buhari, by the elders of the Cross River State chapter of the All Progressives Congress.

In a statement issued in Abuja yesterday Ndoma Egba said his decision to visit the President elect, was to discuss ways of alleviating the suffering of the people of Cross Rivers state which has no party affiliation.

The group led by Eyo Nsa Ekpo, had in a statement described the Senate leader as leading a group of “political gold diggers” to visit Buhari in an attempt to reap where they did not sow Ndoma Egba who spoke through his media aide,

Ignatius Uzuegbulam, said, “For the avoidance of doubt, I clearly stated during the visit that I was leading a non partisan group to see the president elect.

“The painful loss of Bakassi and our oil wells which have further impoverished our people; is a problem we all have been living with since the sad events took place.

“The People of Cross River state stand to benefit if these injustices are reversed by whomsoever God gives the power to do so, irrespective of political or religious affiliation.”

He advised all those who had doubts about the roles he played

before and during the struggle for Bakassi to take time out and goggle his name and the subject.

According to him, apart from his thriving legal practice, he has spent the greater part of his adult life serving the people of Cross Rivers State in various capacities.

The Senate leader also said it was too late in the day for him to be looking for a job because his legal practice is waiting for him as he leaves office.

He, however, stressed that he remains committed to his political calling.

He also said nothing stops Ekpo or anyone else from

leading their own delegations.

“Any who is unhappy with my visit should arrange his or hers. It is my constitutional right to associate with whomsoever I choose.” He said.

It may be recalled that Ndoma-Egba, had on Tuesday led a delegation of Calabar elders to the President-elect, retired Maj. Gen. Muhammadu Buhari, to discuss various issues including the loss of oil wells owned by Cross River.

Ndoma-Egba, told newsmen at the end of the visit, that, “You can see that l led a delegation of very eminent Cross River people. It is a non-

partisan delegation.

“Some of them have had relationship with the presidentelect since the civil war days.

River.

“We raised the issue of the vulnerability of the people of Cross River; the peculiar challenges that we face as a people; the debt profile; the loss of Bakassi; the loss of oil wells.

“We also discussed the poor state of our infrastructure and the loss of visibility in national politics. “These were the issues discussed and he (Buhari) promised that he would look into our complaints.”

Group seeks probe of Fintiri’s N22bn expenditure

A

group, Adamawa Progressive Movement (APM) has called for the probe of N22 billion expenditure incurred by Alhaji Ahmadu Fintiri, 86 day-old administration.

It would be recalled that Fintiri, Speaker of Adamawa House of Assembly, assumed office as Acting Governor, following the impeachment of Murtala Nyako in July 2014.

Fintiri was later removed by a Federal High Court.

The convener of the group, Mr Sunday Wugira, made the call at a press conference in Yola.

Wugira said that the probe became necessary as some of the projects allegedly executed by the Fintiri administration were sited in areas controlled by insurgents.

He said the Fintiri administration sited projects in some villages of Madagali and Michika Local Government Areas, which were no go areas. ``There is also contract for the Faculty of Law in Adamawa State University Mubi that needs to be verified,’’ Wugira said.

Wugira observed that lack of proper accountability has been the bane of development in the state, adding that APM had taken it upon itself to henceforth seek probity and accountability from government in the state. ``Our quest to beam our search light on the administration of Fintiri follows the serious questions of financial sleaze which his 86 days administration left unanswered. ``In the same vein, we shall also beam our searchlight on the activities of the current administration and will make our findings known very soon.’’

(NAN)

L-R: Lagos state Deputy Governor, Mrs. Adefulire Orelope, Lagos state Governor, Mr. Babatunde Fashola, and his wife, Mrs. Abimbola Fashola, during the 2015 Lagos Carnival, on Saturday in Lagos.

Photo: NAN

NLC faults sack of OATUU secretary- general From Femi Oyelola,Kaduna

T

he Nigeria Labour Congress has expressed dismay over the sack of the Secretary General of Organisation of African Trade Union Unity (OATUU) Comrade Owei Lakemfa saying due process was not followed.

The National President of the NLC Comrade Joe Ajaero stated this in a protest letter to President of OATUU Francis Atwoli and made available to the media in kaduna yesterday.

According to the statement, Comrade Owei Lakemfa was reportedly served with the letter of termination of his appointment as OATUU Secretary General dated 25 February 2015 on the 2nd of March 2015 to take effect 29 November 2015.

The statement read, “On behalf of the National Administrative Council (NAC) of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) I bring to you the warmest greetings from the generality of our members. Lakemfa, former Ag. General Secretary of Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) as Secretary General of the Organisation “Our attention has been drawn to the purported termination of employment of Comrade Owei Lakemfa, former Ag. General Secretary of Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) as Secretary General of the Organisation of African Trade Union Unity (OATUU).

Comrade Owei Lakemfa was reportedly served with the letter of termination of his appointment as OATUU Secretary General dated 25

February 2015 on the 2nd of March 2015 to take effect 29 November 2015.”

The NLC also said it recalled some unsubstantiated allegations against the Secretary General as well as his purported suspension from office without opportunity of fair hearing.”

The statement further read,” We are particularly concerned about the termination of his appointment without recourse to due process.

Equally worrisome are other complaints bothering on gross abuse of his human rights, victimization, harassment and intimidation as well as non payment of his legitimate earnings.

“Until the allegations leveled against the Secretary General, Comrade Owei Lakemfa are proven beyond reasonable doubt

and his right to fair hearing respected, the purported letter of termination of his appointment is not acceptable to the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) under our leadership.

“We therefore call on the leadership of OATUU to withdrawal the letter of termination of appointment and urgently resolve whatever issues the organization has with the Secretary General in the spirit of justice and fairness which are the hallmarks of the trade union movement.

“As a PAN African trade union organization, we demand an immediate action to address this matter so that the organisation can regain the confidence and continue to forge ahead with the noble role of serving the needs of African workers across the continent.”

PAGE 10

PEOPLES DAILY, monday, may 11, 2015

YOBE STATE GOVERNMENT

Office of the Special Adviser on Press Affairs and Information (Government House, Damaturu)

For Immediate Release

Friday 8th May, 2015

GOV. GAIDAM, YOBE PEOPLE SOLIDLY SUPPORT SENATOR AHMED LAWAN FOR SENATE PRESIDENCY

A

s the race to the presidency of the eighth session of the Senate heats up, His Excellency Governor Ibrahim Gaidam of Yobe State, on behalf of the Government and people of the State, has expressed his total and unreserved support for Senator Ahmed Lawan’s quest to be Senate President.

Governor Gaidam urges all senators-elect to consider Senator Lawan’s experience, his goodwill, capacity and reach and therefore support him to be the next president of the Senate. The Governor especially urges senators from the North-East Zone, where Ahmed hails from, to offer their support to him.

Governor Gaidam believes strongly that at this pivotal moment in our nation’s history when the entire country is mobilised for positive change, the Senate needs a leader who has the requisite experience, knowledge and network to organise and bring fellow senators around the issues that are uppermost in the minds of Nigerians – security, jobs, education, quality healthcare, electric power supply, etc. In short, we need a Senate President who will work with our new president to advance all the noble causes for which our Great Party, the APC stands.

Governor Gaidam has also taken strong exception to a report published in Thisday newspaper of Friday 8th May 2015 which claims that he supports another candidate and that he was “against the aspiration of Lawan for the Senate Presidency”.

This report was totally false and unfounded.

Even before the governor travelled to Saudi Arabia for the lesser pilgrimage, he has worked, made, and continues to make extensive contacts in support of Senator Ahmed Lawan’s quest for Senator Ahmed Lawan has all the qualities the Senate Presidency. which uniquely place him to lead the eighth His support for Lawan was so strong that during session of the Senate. the last election campaigns, he stood solidly His Excellency Governor Gaidam is pleased behind the senator in Yobe Zone C and urged that, already, senators from the North-West part voters across the Zone to support him. of the country have endorsed his candidature and are poised to support his emergence as Governor Gaidam believes that Senator Ahmed President of the Senate. The Governor is also Lawan is a worthy representative of Yobe State pleased that several senators from other geo- and the North-East Zone in the Senate and a political zones of the country are gearing up to proud representative and servant of democratic governance.His emergence as President of the support Senator Lawan.

Senate will serve all Nigerians well.

Signed Abdullahi Bego Special Adviser on Press Affairs and Information to His Excellency Governor Ibrahim Gaidam

Page 11

PEOPLES DAILY, monday, may 11, 2015

EDITORIAL

These killers mustn’t go unpunished

N

led to the killings. There has ot too long 35, male and Aondoakura also been no compensation ago, a 19-year Tseeneke, 36, male. They to those who were wounded old young man were killed in violation of by the soldiers or to the named Terhile their rights to life and human families of those who were Jirbo went to dignity as enshrined in killed on that day. empty his bowels in a bush Chapter Four of the Nigerian The bloody incident is clearly near the factory owned by Constitution. an indication that all is Dangote Cement in Che That was a sad incident, made not well between Dangote Kucha, near Gboko. An more so by the fact that the and the host community at argument ensued between demonstrators who were sent the factory. That there is the young man and a no provision for toileting soldier on guard duty near facilities in the precincts of the factory. The soldier is the factory is an indication reported to have ordered that the company has poor the young man to remove The bloody incident is relations with its immediate the excreta with his mouth. host community. For all the He said he would do no such clearly an indication that wealth that is generated from a thing. Taken aback by the all is not well between the limestone mined under man’s effrontery, the soldier Dangote and the host their soil, it is regrettable reportedly shot him in the that the company has nothing mouth. community at the to show as its contribution Mercifully, the young man, factory.

That there is no to the welfare of the locals. though badly battered with Such a situation usually all his teeth gone, managed provision for toileting creates tension which to survive the brutal attack. explodes under the slightest Even then, there was a facilities in the precincts provocation. spontaneous reaction from of the factory is . . .

We, therefore, call for a speedy the community. A peaceful resolution of the problems demonstration was held staring Dangote and the to protest the action of the host community in the face. soldier. The soldiers on to their early graves were The company must look into guard this time reacted by not armed and did not pose the environmental hazards shooting six young men and any danger to the soldiers on that its mining activity has one woman to death. The duty on that bloody day. More exposed the community to. victims were identified as tragic than the coldblooded The federal government Doose Ornguze, 19, female; extra judicial murder of the should also punish all those Luper Nongo Igber, 20, innocent citizens has been involved in the extra judicial male; Timothy Terngu Mase, the failure of the government killing of the protesters and 21, male; Myom Mbaume, 25, to investigate the senseless compensate the aggrieved male; Aondoyima Tyokase, multiple murders let alone families.

26, male; Iornenge Anum, give an explanation as to what

“

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Chairman Malam Wada Maida, Oon, Fnge Director/Editor-in-Chief Rufa’i Ibrahim Hameed M. Bello

Editor, Daily

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PEOPLES DAILY, monday, may 11, 2015

Opinion Senate Presidency: Can Ahmed Lawan get it ?

By Sadiq K. Umar

A

s the race for the leadershipof the 8th Senate hots up, I would like to make a double case for the North-East geo-political zone and specifically for Distinguished Senator Ahmed Ibrahim Lawan from Yobe State in the same North-East.

There are several reasons why the All Progressives Congress should in its zoning of the post of the Senate President - the third highest in the land - look the way of the NorthEast. First and most compelling is that the six states in the region have shown consistent and uncommon loyalty to the party - indeed to opposition politics since 1999. Apart from Taraba State, the other states in the region have at one time or the other been under the legacy parties that transformed into the APC. Yobe and Borno States in particular have never been under the PDP. In the just concluded elections the North-East gave Buhari and the

APC the second highest votes haul in the whole country. In fact, in terms of percentage and proportion, the North-East was the number one zone in tilting toward the APC, because a critical examination of the election results shows that in Bauchi, Borno and Yobe States Buhari won with more than 90 percent of the votes cast, and in Adamawa and Gombe with over 70 percent. Of the 18 available senate seats in the zone, APC got 14. Also, in terms of PVC collection and translation into actual votes, the North-East was the number one, as more voters from the region than those of any other region trooped out to cast their votes - mainly for the APC - in the March 28 and April 11 elections.

The North-East region deserves to be given the Senate Presidency because, whether by design or default, nobody from any of the states in the zone has ever occupied that position - or even that of the speaker of the House of Representatives. In the First Republic it was Nwafor Orizu (South-East). In the Second

Republic, the Senate was headed by Joseph Wayas (South-South) while Ume-Ezeoke (South-East) and later Benjamin Chaha (North- Central) were Speaker. In the aborted Third Republic Iyorchia Ayu and Ameh Ebutte, both of them from Benue in the North-Central headed the upper chamber. Between 1999 and 2007, those who were Senate President include Evan Enwerem, Chuba Okadigbo, Adolphus Wabara, Ken Nnamani and Anyim Pius Anyim, all from the South-East, while David Mark from Benue (again!) has been on the saddle ever since. For the lower chamber, we have had Ibrahim Salisu Buhari, Ghali Umar Na’Abba, Aminu Masari and Aminu Tambuwal, all from the North-West.

Dimeji Bankole from the South-West was also speaker. Come to think of it, the North-East has never held even the position of Deputy Senate President or Deputy Speaker of House of Representatives! And apart from Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, the closest the zone came to smelling the presidency was during Atiku

Abubakar’s chequered tenure as Vice President.

But this time around the North-East should get the Senate Presidency because in Senator Ahmed Lawan it boasts of easily the best and most qualified person for the job. With a doctoral degree and sparkling career as a university don, Senator Lawan is the most intellectually accomplished of all those who have signified interest to head the red chamber. He is also the most experienced, having been in the National Assembly as a legislator for the whole of the period of this republic. Between 1999 and 2007 he was at the House of Representatives as one of the most visible and active members in the House and chair of some of the key committees, such as Education, Petroleum, Environment, Defence, etc. Since 2007 he has been at the Senate and superintending the all-important Public Accounts Committee.

Senator Lawan is the man because his aspiration dovetails with the CHANGE mantra of the APC. He fits

perfectly into people’s expectation of a new dawn, fresh face and fresh ideas. He is utterly without blot and blemish in private or public life, nor is he associated with scandals of any type. Recently Presidentelect Muhammadu Buhari was reported as telling the party not to allow individuals who are tainted to occupy positions of responsibility, as this would conflict with his avowed commitment to fight graft and impunity. We make bold to state that Senator Lawan is the ideal person to complement Buhari’s efforts toward eradicating the scourge of corruption in particular and in charting a new course for the country’s ship.

Choosing Senator Ahmed Lawan as the next Senate President is like killing two birds with one stone: the North-East is finally and deservedly compensated, while competence and experience are duly recognized and rewarded.

it is said that more people came out for the governorship election than the presidential election, which is contrary to what happened nationwide.’’

The seriousness of these allegations can be located within the context of the history and nature of politics in the state which dwells more on the mantra of change from a sitting government that has appeared to run out of ideas or how to impact positively on the lives of the people, to a government perceived by the people as corrective and capable of making life more bearable for them.

The Gaidam administration is largely seen as an offshoot of the Bukar Abba Ibrahim contraption that has been accused of cornering power by foul means and of not utilizing the opportunity to ensure sustainable growth of the state. Yobe has largely remained its rural self with poverty and despondency glaringly etched in a poor population that has grown to learn to put up with a leadership deficit that has done more damage than good. The same yardsticks that were used to justify the defeat of Jonathan are the same variables that were at play in Yobe; the same disenchantment with the Jonathan administration by the populace, which led to the victory of General Buhari was the same pivotal reason that has reinforced people’s desire for change in Yobe. Prior to the elections, the majority of the people of Yobe have indicated an abiding willingness to effect a popular change and to do away with a government that had been anything but effective in dealing with myriads of problems, which have condemned the people to an unending bout with avoidable economic and

social problems. A section of the people of the state has even alleged that the Gaidam administration has exploited the unfortunate insurgency in the state to mismanage resources, even in the face of multitude of other serious developmental problems.

With the dislocation of the economy of the state, slump in trading and other subsistence activities in which majority of the people are involved, the constant movement of people displaced by the insurgency and government’s inability to intervene in critical areas that would cushion the negative effect on the people, Yobe had become more of a junkyard where you find carcasses of damaged automobiles all over the place. Hopes of the people for a lifeline have been irrevocably dashed, as schools remained closed for a very long time due to government’s apparent helplessness to take measures to come up with solutions that will stand the test of time. The people felt abandoned by a government that claimed to enjoy the mandate of the same people, while their resources were being frittered away on mundane, cosmetic and unhelpful misapplication and mismanagement of scarce resources. Since 1999, Yobe has struggled to live under the stranglehold of political vampires who have mastered the art of cutting corners in order to keep and misuse power between themselves and their stooges, while Yobe has remained stagnantly underdeveloped. This underdevelopment is at the heart of the problems that have bothered all lovers of Yobe state.

Dr Mohammed Goje Mubarak, Nigeria Prisons Service, Damaturu.

Sadiq K. Umar writes from Gwagwalada, Abuja.

Adamu Maina Waziri: A watertight case this time?

By Dr Mohammed Goje Mubarak

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ince his emergence at the helm following the death of his principal in 2010, Governor Ibrahim Gaidam has kept his weaknesses in election matters very close to his chest, with the opposition unable to find a way to convince the judiciary to upturn his perceived victory along the line. The man has maintained what could ordinarily be seen as his political indomitability in the face of stringent and dynamic opposition from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), which had, since 1999 been unable to break a sort of a stranglehold of the politics of Yobe state by elements in the socalled progressive milieu. Each time the PDP tried, it has met with an iron cast shield and even when it believed it had a good case at the tribunals it still met the same fate.

The just concluded elections in the state, which produced the same pattern of results may however generate a more radical shift, going by the apparent watertight nature of evidences which the PDP was able to secure, evidences that are seen generally as very germane and critical in tilting the direction of litigation this time around. Perhaps, the PDP tended to have learnt decisive lessons from the failures of the past which were seen by informed persons as its greatest undoing, exacerbated mainly by a seeming lack of capacity to, through diligent patience and investigation, obtain the kind of evidence to sway victory to their side, and not because electoral malfeasance and other sharp practices in contravention of electoral laws had

not taken place. It is argued that all along, Governor Ibrahim Gaidam has benefitted more from the untidiness and unpreparedness of the PDP all along to put together key evidences to make it easier for the judiciary to reach favaurable conclusions. That appeared to have been taken care of this time around. What exactly are the key issues at the heart of the case against the victory of Gaidam, such that its incontrovertibility will lead to the upturning of the victory and to what degree is it likely going to be different from the cases before it?

At a well attended press conference in Abuja, the Governorship candidate of the PDP, Alhaji Adamu Maina Waziri, appeared confident and somewhat cocksure of a job well done by his team in gathering key evidences, which will hopefully provide incontrovertible reasons on why the election in Yobe must be cancelled and why the APC candidate should be disqualified. He said he is challenging the eligibility of Governor Gaidam to contest the election based on subsisting Supreme Court judgments that have defined the tenure of the president and governors to be a maximum of two terms of four years each. Alhaji Adamu Waziri noted that it is in line with its judgment that the Supreme Court determined the tenure in the case of Murtala Nyako of Adamawa state and Idris Ibrahim in Kogi state. ‘’The Supreme Court also in 2003, had declared that under the 1999 constitution, neither the president nor the governors can be sworn in more than twice.’’ This is a very interesting argument, whose conclusion would have far reaching implications for democracy and its

sustenance in Nigeria. The point is that if a governor is sworn in in the morning and for whatever constitutional reason, the deputy takes over in the evening, finishes the term and wins a second term, can he, at the end of the second term insist on re-contesting for another term on the basis that the first term was not his? The second contentious point on which Adamu Waziri hinges his case is the evidence he claimed to have obtained which showed that the Resident Electoral Commissioner in Yobe was compromised. A source in Damaturu revealed that the Yobe state government had been reckless to the point that the Bank tellers of payment of millions of Naira into the account of the Resident Electoral Commissioner were easily accessed and obtained. A Kaduna based lawyer, Barrister Aliyu Shehu believes that with this incriminating evidence, chances are that APC‘s Gaidam will have a tough time extricating himself from complicity in obtaining victory through foul means.

The third and final charge, on the basis of which the Adamu Maina Waziri team hopes to make a strong case is the issue of card reader, ‘’we also have evidences to show that in many parts of Yobe state, contrary to Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) directive, card readers were not used for conduct of the election. Fourthly, we also have grounds to say that in a number of places, the conduct of the election was not free and fair due to intimidation of our agents by security forces as well as traditional rulers. Finally, we also want to say that contrary to the national environment, in Yobe state,

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PEOPLES DAILY, monday, may 11, 2015

Comment

PwC’s audit report or cover up?

By Nduka Chiejina THE NATION, April 29, 2015, p 4. The report written by Nduka Chiejina revealed the following.

“The forensic audit report on the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, compiled

by Pricewater House Coopers (Pwc) was done without bank statements, the report said.

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), according to the report, shunned the auditors’ request for the bank statements.”

P

ricewater House Coopers should be ashamed of itself that the internationally highly regarded auditing firm ever got itself into this mess – at any price. No local auditing firm in any country in the world would ever conduct what it calls a forensic audit report without obtaining bank statements in respect of the organizations it has been called upon to audit. Even, a freshly minted ICAN Chartered Accountant anywhere in the world knows that most everything in

audit ends in the bank accounts.

Certainly, PwC must have assigned this monumental task to some of its most experienced national and international auditors given the magnitude of the amount in dispute.

PwC, and the auditors assigned to this particular audit have done the company’s reputation a great deal of damage with this self-made confession and its implications. To be sure, PwC had accomplices in what can only be regarded as deliberate cover up.

Among them is the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, where the whole palaver about missing funds started in the first place.

It was the former Governor of the CBN who raised alarm in late 2013 that $47bn had not been remitted to the Federation Account by NNPC. Later, under interrogation, the amount outstanding to the Federation Account was reduced to $20bn. Meanwhile, for blowing the whistle, Sanusi Lamido Sanusi was hounded out of office by the Jonathan administration, which under public pressure promised a “forensic audit”. What PwC eventually produced last month, again under

duress, must have been the longest delayed audit on a matter of urgent national importance.

Ordinarily, one would have expected PwC, with its international reputation at stake, and Nigeria’s vital interest involved, to conduct and release a report on which everybody form the Chief Executive Officer, CEO, would be prepared to stake his life for its veracity. Unfortunately, that was not the case. PwC, for whatever reasons known to its managers and the auditors assigned to this project, has now become part of the problem and not the solution. Let me point out some of the problems the staff assigned have created for the auditing firm starting from the first.

PwC’s first problem is one of credibility allied with integrity.

Unfortunately, for the company, integrity is a 100% issue for an auditing firm. Even 95% is not good enough. An auditing firm which issues a “forensic report” without copies of the bank statements has already violated one of the primary professional requirements of an audit. Hoe, on earth would the auditors know that

funds that were supposed to be transferred to bank accounts actually got there? Even student of Business Administration, who only obtained theoretical lessons in auditing know that it was totally unprofessional for PwC to continue with the assignment once it was made clear that bank statements were not forthcoming. So, the report lacks credibility because it was professionally flawed.

The possibility of deliberate collusion to cover up several frauds

by PwC’s staff arises from what was written before. If, non-professionals knew that an audit, forensic or routine, is not complete without bank statements, how could the well experienced auditors of PwC, on this assignment fail to see that they were about to issue a report which, at best, is fit only for the dust bin? Surely, all those involved must be aware that they were issuing a report which fell far short of the highest professional standards; at a time when only the very best was required of them. That they probably knew they were being unprofessional, yet going forward and risking their

company’s reputation, as well as their own, naturally leads to the next set of questions.

The first one is: who engaged them? Was it the Ministry of Petroleum? Or the NNPC? Or the Ministry of Finance? Or the Auditor General’s Office? Or the Secretary to the Federal Government of Nigeria?

Or the Presidency? Irrespective of who paid them for this, obviously shoddy job, Nigerians, and, indeed, the entire world wants to know the Terms of Reference, TOR, for the audit. Were they specifically forbidden to request for and obtain bank statements? And, if not, why was there no demand for those documents, through their principal for them? And, why did PwC fail to honourably resign when it was clear that a credible “forensic audit” was not possible under the circumstances?

Finally, if they were told to back off from obtaining bank balances, they need to tell the whole world who did it.

or patriotism they are. This week, I intend to address only one or two.

But, first let us travel to Gombe where the RMAFC recommendations and implementation has become a public issue.

Governor Danjuma Goje of Gombe State must be wondering what he had done wrong to warrant all the attacks he had received for claiming the pension which the Revenue Mobilisation and Fiscal Commission, RMAFC, has recommended for him and all the other governors of Nigeria, many of whom have quietly helped themselves to the money without a whimper from those who now want Goje crucified. As for me, Goje has done one thing wrong; he has refused to pay his predecessor in office former Governor Hashidu on the flimsy excuse that the man is under probe.

Even, if a probe indicts Hashidu, his pension cannot be confiscated. The penalty is quite different and can only be determined by a court of law.

Beyond that, I fail to see what the governor has done that is not legal.

It might not be exactly cricket for someone to claim his pension while still serving but the RMAFC had exonerated him even on that score and it has even revealed that other governors have claimed their own money. The question is: who do we blame for this mess? The plain and honest answer is: the RMAFC. It is the commission that has in its utter folly recommended N200 million for a governor who serves two complete terms as pension; not the governor.

How the commissioners came about this colossal figure is what we need to address not the individuals who suddenly find themselves with abundant and legalized loot because when Goje leaves, the next governor will be entitled to the same amount or something larger.

Let us start with some figures published and not yet denied by RMAFC. They collectively reveal the lack of economic thought that went into the preparation. Motor Vehicle loan is now 400 per cent of basic annual salary payable in six years.

But, the elected official is elected for four years and might not be returned to office all being well; he might be removed for a lot of reasons after collecting the loot; and he might die as many have done since 1999.

How then are the country’s financial interests protected by offering a loan for tenure in excess of the person’s service period? In case of death, how does the country recover the loan from his family; if he has any? Or do we write it off as an unfortunate situation when simple commonsense would have made it possible for us to avert the problem? If he is removed and cannot afford to pay, do we then inherit an old banger as a nation which will then be sold at a giveaway price to those in the corridors of power?

I have isolated this particular allowance in order to demonstrate the absurdity of the thought processes that went into the measure announced by Turkur and Nnamani. At the moment, nothing less than ten thousand officials at the three tiers of government will qualify for these largesse. Even if they are all modest, and we know from experience that modesty is not one the virtues of the Nigerian politician in office, and accept loans of four million each, the country will pay out N40 billion in car loans alone.

And these salaries and allowances will be paid regardless of whether the state is Taraba, Ekiti, Ebonyi, Kebbi, or Rivers. That should make a lot of sense to fools.

Nduka Chiejina wrote in from Abuja

Reforming RMAFC is half the battle to fiscal sanity

By Dele Sobowale “It is true that we have increased the salaries and remuneration packages in line with our mandate.

But we did not increase on the basis of percentage. The whole increase was done across the board for political officers, lawmakers and Mr Emmanuel Nnamani, RMAFC Commissioner in THE NATION, August 18, 2008. judicial officers. The increase has also taken effect because it has been approved accordingly.

A

ll Nigerians who have for long been baffled by how public servants including Presidents, Vice Presidents, Governors, Ministers and Special Advisers, Senators and Representatives, have bee fleecing us need look no further than the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation Fiscal Commission, RMAFC, which is charged with determining the remuneration packages of public officials. One of the first ruinous measures taken by the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in 1999, and until now, was to select conscienceless prodigal people to be in charge of RMAFC. Since any amount recommended by RMAFC becomes legal and binding on the Federal Government and States to pay, everybody can go home with a bundle claiming it was legitimate. On account of the recommendations of RMAFC, since 1999, Nigeria public officials have become the highest paid in Africa at least and in most of the world.

If Buhari wants to keep public expenditure under check and save Nigeria from the ruin planned for us by the PDP, he would be best advised to read the following articles written

in the past about RMAFC. IS THE RMAFC MANAGED BY DRUNKARDS? The Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission, RMAFC, whose Chairman is Alhaji Hamman Tukur must be the most misunderstood commission in Nigeria today. Its recent announcement, which was meant to correct rumours about entitlements of public officials has only left many people wondering what criteria were adopted by the commission when fixing the entitlements. Let me start by pointing out one which will shock most Nigerians. The pension for many professors who retired before 2000 remains a paltry N1300 per month.

At least three have collapsed while on line for verification before collecting this sum that would not even cover the round trip from Lagos to Ibadan. They are public servants who individually and collectively have contributed more than Special Advisers who the RMAFC is recommending should be paid N16 million per annum. Surely, Nigerians will want the RMAFC to tell us what are the functions of Special Advisers which are so awesome as to earn them this colossal amount?

That was in 2008 before the influence of RMAFC on our annual expenditure became clear to me.

Later, a longer article highlighted how this Commission alone determines a great deal of our collective fate by allocating obscene amounts to our elected and appointed public servants. Please read the rest.

Mr Nnamani went on to inform us, that “what we have done is to review the remuneration packages of these officers in line with the present realities. As a commission, we did some research and met several times before we came up with the increase…

Other indices are the rate of inflation

and the need for a living wage to ensure honesty and the dignity of the office holders”.

Let me quickly make a few observations about that statement of defence by Nnamani in order to position the salary increases for political office holders in proper perspective and then to address the issue of how it has played out in Gombe State.

Everybody remembers, because it is too soon to forget, that teachers in the public sector went on strike recently demanding for salary increases “in line with the present realities”,(to use Nnamani’s words), the rate of inflation and the need for a living wage” because that is the sum total of their demands. Governments at all levels pretended they could not afford the increases and kept our kids at home for weeks. Eventually, teachers were persuaded to accept 27.5% increase after taking a lot of abuse from everyone; everyone without brains that is. Now that the same political office holders and those who could not think deeply, who were asking teachers to be reasonable and to accept less than their demand have seen clearly that elected officials were being dishonest and RMAFC had delayed announcing their own juicy packages perhaps we can now realize the role of the RMAFC and its commissioners mostly errand boys of politicians in the distortions taking place in the remuneration of political office holders. One question needs to be asked for now, “do teachers and political office holders shop in the different markets? Are they not subject to the same level of inflation and so called “present realities”? I will next week go through the entire recommendations by RMAFC for various offices in order to demonstrate how utterly bereft of commonsense

Dele Sobowale wrote in from Abuja

PEOPLES DAILY, monday, may 11, 2015

PAGE 14

News

5 new babies delivered in IDPs camp in Sokoto – NEMA

T

he National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has said that five babies were delivered at Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) camp at Kalambaina, Sokoto, between May 7 and May 9.

The NEMA Assistant Head, Sokoto Zonal Operations Office, Mr Thickman Tanimu, made this known to newsmen in Sokoto on Sunday.

Tanimu said that of the five new babies, three were girls, while two were boys.

He said two were delivered on May 7 while on transit to Sokoto, two on May 8 and one on May 9, adding the mothers and children were hale and hearty.

Tanimu said that 2,000 IDPs, including the new babies, were evacuated by the agency from Geidam in Yobe on Wednesday, May 6 to Sokoto.

He said that nearly 80 per cent of the affected people were from Kebbi, while the rest were from Sokoto State. ``They were earlier displaced

due to insurgent activities in Doron-Baga in Borno and they fled to Gegeme in Difa state, Niger Republic as refugees. ``However, they were also unfortunately deported back to Geidam in Yobe state after an insurgent attack at their IDPs camp in Niger Republic. ``It was from Geidam that the IDP’s were screened by NEMA and security agencies, and the agency evacuated them to Sokoto,’’ Tanimu said.

He said that the affected persons

from Sokoto State had almost been evacuated by the state government to their various towns and villages across the 23 local governments of the state.

Tanimu, however, expressed regrets that the IDPs from Kebbi at the camp were reportedly ``disowned’’ by Gov. Saidu Dakingari.

He was quoted as saying that the IDPs from his state were not indigenes of the state and may be insurgents.

The governor had also

L-R: Senator Smart Adeyemi, FCT Minister, Senator Bala Mohammed, Minister of State for FCT, Oloye Jumoke Akinjide, and Senator Philip Aduda, during the official inspection of Federal Government projects, recently at Lugbe, in Abuja.

Photo: Joe Oroye

reportedly set up a committee to screen the IDPs from the state at the Sokoto camp before evacuating them.

The Executive Secretary of the Kebbi State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Mr Chindo Jega, said that arrangements were being made to evacuate the IDPs to Kebbi.

Meanwhile, Tanimu has said that the NEMA was providing food items, blankets, rubber mats, water and other essential needs to the IDPs. He also commended Gov. Aliyu Wamakko for donating clothing materials and money to all the 2000 IDPs at the camp, apart from providing the camp.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that, Medicisins Sans Frontiers (Doctors without Borders-MSF), have provided temporary toilet facilities, medicare and a water tank at the camp.

Various security agencies, especially the police and officials of the Nigeria Security Civil Defence Corps were seeing providing tight security at the camp.

A cross section of the affected people told NAN, ``our major need are to be evacuated to our state to be reunited with our families’’.

Mrs Nafisa Awwal, 20, from Zauro and Malam Mohammed Tukur, 30, from Kamba, told NAN that ``we also want financial assistance to enable us restart our businesses to earn decent living’’.

(NAN)

Continuity in governance brings devt – Kano govt-elect,Ganduje From Umar Dankano, Yola.

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ano State Governor-elect Engr. Abdullahi Umaru Ganduje has observed that, continuity in governance can play a greater role in attaining the yearnings and aspirations of the electorate especially in performing federal and state governments’ tasks.

The outgoing deputy governor of Kano State lamented that lack of continuity in governance in most states of the federation has brought about setbacks in administration and failure by the successive governments to continue with programmes considered important to the populace.

He encourage successive administration to respect the wishes of the people by discarding political coloration in the implementation of programmes that have bearing with the wishes of the people even if not initiated by the incumbent .

Engr. Ganduje made the observation known in an interview with journalists in Yola, Adamawa state capital weekend stressing that, in governance with emphasis to democracy, is always good for the electorate to allow continuation so that those in the corridors of power can complete the already ongoing projects that have direct bearing on the populace as the case with kano state in particular.

He explained that with the mandate given to him by his people, he will surely do all it takes to provide dividend of democracy to his people urging them to be patient, supportive and prayer able to his administration.

“Kwankwaso’s vision for the state is intact. My administration will continue from where my boss, will stop on 29th May Insha Allah” On how to improve his state’s internally generated revenue, IGR for more fund, Ganduje said most if not all fraudulent leakages and corrupt tendencies would be checkmated with all seriousness by his administration.

“Most of these fraudulent leakages and possibilities of corrupt utterances in the revenue

generation section and other government departments will be checkmated accordingly.

“Because with that, I am optimistic that we will be able to see light at the end of the tunnel, God willing. He emphasised.

Ganduje who spoke tough on corrupt officials said have no hiding place in new administration come 29th May, 2015 advised presidentelect General Muhammadu Buhari (RTD) to probe corrupt cases in all sectors of government with a view to sanitize the system entirely.

Answering a question that bothers on his speculated ambition of becoming the next chairman of Nigerian Governors Forum, Ganduje said he is a new comer in the fold and needed to gather

more experience as substantive governor before dueling into such venture saying “among us there are old governors who are better off than we J.J.C but you know our people can speculate issues, so that is my stand on that”.He maintained.

While saying that although the expectations of Nigerians are very high in seeing that Major General Muhammadu Buhari (RTD) makes a turnaround of the economy of the country, Ganduje made bold to say that they must to exercise patience for the administration to have its bearing when sworn on 29th of this month because of how much the various sectors of the economy have been plundered.

Mothers seek devt of Edo nursing school From Osaigbovo Iguobaro, Benin

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ome concerned mothers in Edo state have asked the state government to demonstrate commitment towards developing the state school of nursing/midwifery in Benin city not to erode the purpose for which it was established.

The Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria, NMCN, reportedly withdrew accreditation of the school three years ago over issues bothering on `decay in infrastructure, shortage and qualified medical personnel’.

At an interactive session with journalists, weekend, Executive Director of Uyiosa Orphanage home and widows’

Ministry, Mrs. Mary Igunbor said the advocacy has become to put the school on the path of sustainable development.

Igunbor who echoed the heart-wrenching stories of parents and the affected students, however appealed to Governor Adams Oshiomhole, well-meaning individuals; nongovernmental organizations and churches

to assist in addressing the challenges.

President, National Council of Women Societies, Mrs. Omoluru Agbokhae Eniye, said: ``As concerned mothers, we are worried,whenever they are going for such drive, I do join them.’’ ``I’m an Alumnus of the state school of nursing/Midwifery, according to Igunbor, ``the state Governor is aware of

the deteriorating state of the school’’.

Chairperson of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Edo state council, Comrade (Mrs.) Amina Eboh said faith which use to be the personal guide of the affected students alongside the fresh students is no longer enough, following the unfortunate incident

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PEOPLES DAILY, monday, may 11, 2015

Sycophancy, eye service killed Yuguda’s administration - Former aide From Ahmed Kaigama, Bauchi

F

ormer Chief of Staff to governor of Bauchi State, Shehu Gabam said sycophancy and eye service killed Yuguda’s administration, just as he attributed the failure of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) at all levels, to the party leaders who took the electorate for granted, assuming that it would be business as usual, hence the poor performance at the polls.

Gabam who spoke to journalists in his country home Tilden Fulani in Toro Local Government Area of the state, said “When a man allow sycophancy to take over his sense of direction and sense of responsibility, then the fundamental issue is that large majority of people suffered for it, so sycophancy and eye service killed the administration.”

According to him, “I am a career politician but I had to leave that administration and forge ahead because I foresee the administration is heading towards a crash with the type of people he was surrounded with.”

Gabam who is also a PDP Chieftain attributed the failure of the party at the recent polls to the national leadership of PDP, saying “party leaders should be held responsible for the failure of the party at all levels in the just concluded general election.

Those that are invested with the responsibilities of running the party from the chairman down, they are more of business oriented people than democrats and when you have people that are business oriented that are interest oriented ruling a political party, they may not understand the dynamics that are involved.”

Shehu said the development has reversed the system bringing PDP to the opposition, adding that such development was healthy and good for a developing nation as Nigeria.

According to him, “I think we became satisfied with all that is happening, not minding the citizens’ plight. Yes, PDP became complacent.

We became big headed and took the electorate for granted. What happened is the best for democracy.

Let PDP be on the opposition and see how others have been doing it and we will learn”.

L-R: National Secretary, Unity Party of Nigeria, Yusuf Alli, National Chairman of the party, Dr Fredrick Fasehun, Director General, Nigeria Institute of International Affairs (NIIA), Professor Bola Akinterinwa, and Eze Nidibbo Shomolu, Eze Leonard Agha, during the first national post-election summit of the party tagged: “Revolution Through the Ballot Box”, yesterday in Lagos.

Photo: NAN

APC elders berate Senate leader over visit to Buhari

By Umar Muhammad Puma

C

oncerned elders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Cross Rivers State have criticized the recent visit by the Senate Leader, Chief Victor Ndoma Egba and his group to the President-elect, General Muhammadu Buhari, describing them as “political gold-diggers.”

The elders also opposed any attempt by Ndoma Egba led group to stampede the President-elect or foist themselves on the Cross Rivers chapter of the APC, saying “only a few weeks ago they were vociferous in their opposition to

General Buhari’s ambition, raising dubious, sectional and religious sentiments.”

A statement jointly signed in Abuja yesterday by Hon. Eyo Nsa Ekpo, Hon. Ekeng Iwatt Effiom, Engr. Cyprian Oyom Igban, Engr Agim Lawrence Ikwen, Capt. Oyo Ita and Elder David Okon, said that they would do everything possible to resist the antics of the people they described as members of “Any Government In Power (AGIP).”

The statement reads: “the concerned elders are however disturbed by the timing of this visit and the demands tabled before our President-elect. Chief Victor

Ndoma Egba has been prominent part of decision making process in Cross Rivers State and Nigeria as a three-time senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, majority whip in his second term and majority leader in his third term. It was in his tenure Cross Rivers State finally lost Bakasi to Cameroon and witnessed the most degrading form of infrastructural decay.”

According to the elders, “none of us heard Chief Victor Ndoma Egba raising any voice in the senate when Cross Rivers State was raped first by the Federal Republic of Nigeria with the ceding of Bakassi to Cameroon without the consent

of her people, then by Akwa Ibom State resulting in the lost of our oil wells and land territories.”

For receiving the Ndoma Egba group, the APC leaders however commended the President-elect, adding that he has demonstrated that he has a non-partisan agenda as the chief architect in the emerging Nigeria.

“This is indeed a total departure from the ethnic, religious and sectional politics promoted and propagated by the People Democratic Party (PDP) of which Chief Victor Ndoma and his group of co-travelers actively encouraged and participated.”

No corrupt person in your cabinet, Christian group urges Buhari From Femi Oyelola, Kaduna

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Christian group under the auspices of Christian Rural and Urban Development Association of Nigeria (CRUDAN) has called on the President-elect, General Muhammadu Buhari to ensure that no corrupt person finds his or her way into his cabinet if he wants to bring the changes Nigerians desire.

The association stated this in a communiqué issued after its North West Zone annual development conference held in Kaduna yesterday.

Reading the communiqué, board Secretary of the association, Reverend Canon Cletus Magaji said the call became very important because the past administration in the country has surrounded itself with corrupt officials and this has led to lack of proper

documentation of budget, advising the incoming administration to be wary of this for it to succeed.

In his own remarks, guest speaker at the event, Dr, Ben Gugon of Kaduna State University called on the incoming government to prepare its budget early at the same time calling on legislators to ensure quick passage of the budget.

Dr Gogon who spoke on the subject: “The Impact of Participatory

Budgeting in Good Governance”, said the people should decide the projects that are more important to them and the era of sighting projects for political benefit should be over in the country if Nigerians are to move forward.

The North West Zonal facilitator of CRUDAN, Pastor James Obidiah called on participants to make the best use of the knowledge acquired at the conference.

Gov. Gaidam debunks rumour, says “I Solidly Support Senator Ahmed Lawan for Senate Presidency” From Uche Uche, Damaturu

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obe State Governor, Alhaji Ibrahim Gaidam has taken strong exception to a report published in Thisday newspaper of Friday 8th May 2015 which claims that he supports another candidate and that he was against the aspiration of Lawan for the Senate Presidency, declaring the

report as totally false and unfounded.

This is contained in a press statement signed by Abdullahi Bego, Special Adviser on Press Affairs and Information to Governor Ibrahim Gaidam and made available to our correspondent in Damaturu.

The statement pointed out that even before the governor travelled to Saudi Arabia for the lesser pilgrimage,

he has worked, made, and continues to make extensive contacts in support of Senator Ahmed Lawan’s quest for the Senate Presidency.

It stressed that the governor’s support for Lawan was so strong that during the last election campaigns, he stood solidly behind the senator in Yobe Zone C and urged voters across the zone to support him.

This is because, according to the press statement, Governor Gaidam believes that Senator Ahmed Lawan is a worthy representative of Yobe State and the North-East Zone in the Senate and a proud representative and servant of democratic governance and that his emergence as President of the Senate will serve all Nigerians well.

“In short, we need a Senate

President who will work with our new president to advance all the noble causes for which our great party, the APC stands,” Governor Gaidam was quoted in the press statement.

Governor Gaidam therefore urged all senators-elect, especially those senators from the North-East Zone, where Ahmed hails from, to offer their support to him.

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PEOPLES DAILY, monday, may 11, 2015

Why odds may favour north east for Senate President Ananlysis

By Ikechukwu Okaforadi

T

hough the All Progressives Congress (APC) is yet to officially announce the zoning arrangement of the principal officers of the 8th National Assembly which will be inaugurated very soon, however there are indications that the party may zone the office of the Senate President to the North East after considering several factors.

In response to earlier speculation that the APC has zoned the office of the Senate President to the North Central Geo-Political Zone, the party in a statement issued in Abuja recently, said there is no truth to anything that has been dished out anywhere, concerning the issues of appointment, especially the zoning of the National Assembly’s principal positions and other offices.

APC National Publicity Secretary, Lai Mohammed, in the statement said that in the tradition of the APC, all issues of public interest will be handled transparently and conveyed to Nigerians through the usual communication channels.

“No appointments have been made and no offices have been zoned. The main concern of our party at the moment is to ensure a smooth transition and to hit the ground running, in the overall interest of the long-suffering people of Nigeria.

“At the appropriate time, Nigerians will be informed of the appointments made and the offices zoned,” APC said.

Nevertheless, there are numerous factors that favour North East region in the scheming of where the Senate President position will go to.

Though the North Central geo-political zone is pushing for the Senate Presidency on the ground of their contribution towards the success of the party in the last general election, there are many factors that favour North East Zone in the race for the Senate Presidency.

In the North East, Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume, Chairman, Senate Committee on Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), Senator Ahmed Lawan, Chairman Senate Committee on Public Account and former Governor of Gombe State (2003-2011), Senator Danjuma Goje, who is the Vice Chairman Senate Committee on Petroleum Downstream are

all in the race.

Some political analysts and commentators have posited that APC will do itself enough favour by zoning the office of the Senate Presidency to the North East in view of some factors.

One of the factors that APC leadership may consider in favour of the North East is that the zone is the most devastated by the Boko Haram insurgency and one of the poorest regions on earth, according to the United Nations Report and therefore, this will give them a sense of belonging in the new government.

The UN assessment is based on access to water, education, electricity, healthcare service, infrastructure etc. Boko Haram activities in the three North East States of Borno, Yobe and Adamawa had led to the death of thousands of people, while millions were displaced.

About fifteen local government areas from the three states mostly from Borno were captured by the Boko Haram sect.

Unlike the North Central which has produced the Senate Presidents, including Senator David Mark, who is completing his eight years as Senate President, the North East has never produced President of Nigeria and Senate President.

Except Lagos State, Yobe and Borno are the only states in Nigeria that have been in opposition party since 1979.

In 1979, NPN was the ruling government at the centre, while Lagos was controlled by UPN; Yobe and Borno were being controlled by GNPP. Those from the North East are also of the view that if justice and fairness is to prevail, now that opposition party takes over the national government, North East,

Sen. Ali Ndume particularly Yobe and Borno, should be compensated. This also agrees with the saying that “a patient dog eats the fattest bone”.

In the presidential election, North East produced the largest results next to North West, where President-elect, Gen. Muhammadu Buhari hails from. North East also produced thirteen senators in the March 28 parliamentary election and took over Bauchi and Adamawa from PDP. Meanwhile, in the race for the Senate Presidency, Senator Ali Ndume seems to be the only one without a sponsor, god-father and one of the least in terms of riches. However, based on observations, if APC eventually zones the position to the North East, Ndume will likely emerge as the Senate President of the 8th National

“

If Ndume emerges victorious in the race for Senate Presidency, analysts believe, he will then join the list of African leaders who passed through travails before their ascension to the throne

Assembly because of some of the factors which favour him.

One of the factors that will favour Ndume if APC eventually zones the Senate Presidency to the North East is that the battle for the race in the region has almost been pruned down to Yobe and Borno states.

During the APC convention where the party national leaders emerged, Yobe is given the position of National Secretary of the party. The position was then zoned to the North East, particularly, Yobe and Borno states.

Borno had to give up in order to allow a Yobe indigene occupy the position. Now that the battle is almost between Yobe and Borno again, observers say it is the turn of Yobe to give up allowing Borno to produce the next Senate President.

There is a political calculation that North East will produce Senate President, APC National Secretary and BoT Chairman.

Both Senator Lawan and Senator Goje had served at various capacities as leaders and deserve to become Senate President. They are also eligible to become Senate President, but one of the common traits of the duo which pundits argued will put Ndume ahead, is the allegation that they are aggressive and may not be able to carry fellow senators along.

Pundits argue that the office of the Senate President is too sensitive and should be left in the hands of persons that are always composed and

calm, even in the troublous time. This was evident during Ndume’s trial and when he was the Minority Leader of the House of Representatives.

Observers have maintained that David Mark made history as the longest serving Senate President in Nigeria because of his humility, patriotism and pragmatism. They also argued that he succeeded because he is a negotiator, strategist and diplomat and not necessarily being aggressive on national issues, which are the hallmarks of Senator Ndume.

They also see Senator Ndume as the peoples’ senator. This also becomes very obvious as several returning senators across the six geo-political zones have started trooping to his office to declare their support for him, since he has declared interest in the race for the number one seat of the Senate.

His humility, acceptability, patriotism, diplomacy and pragmatism also came to play when he was the Minority Leader in the House of Representatives. In the press interview recently, Ndume said if he emerges victorious in the race, he will not be a “Senators President” but “Senate President.”

Apart from personal characteristics which put Senator Ndume in vantage position, it was observed that Ndume has a good relationship with the leadership of the APC, including Senator Ahmed Tinubu and the Presidentelect, Gen. Muhammadu Buhari.

Those who have analyzed the insurgency in the north east have agreed that though it left irreparable damages in the three states of Borno, Yobe and Adamwa, Borno State is the worst hit by Boko Haram deadly activities.

According to them, most of the local government areas captured by the insurgents are from Borno State, and so, if the north east must produce the Senate President, it should come from Borno State.

In this regards, Senator Ndume is among the victims of insurgents who voted at the IDPs camp during the last election, because he hails from Gwosa Local Government area, which was recently recaptured from the insurgents by Nigerian Military.

If Ndume emerges victorious in the race for Senate Presidency, analysts believe, he will then join the list of African leaders who passed through travails before their ascension to the throne.

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PEOPLES DAILY, monday, may 11, 2015

Abia North Senate: Group alerts tribunal on activities of mischief makers

L-R: President Goodluck Jonathan, in a handshake with the Chairman, PDP Post Election Review Committee/ Deputy Senate President Ike Ekweremadu, after a meeting with the PDP Post-Election Review Committee, on Friday night at the State House, in Abuja.

By Ochiaka Ugwu

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he fight for the just concluded Abia North Senatorial election may have taken another twist with a Non-Governmental Organization (NGO), Peace and Media Advocacy Group (PMAG) coming hard on mischief-makers suspected to be working for the Progressive Peoples Alliance, (PPA) who were bent on distracting the smooth work of Election Petition Tribunal sitting in the state capital, Umuahia.

The group in a press briefing in Abuja yesterday, addressed by the National Coordinator, Mazi James Okoronkwo condemned strongly what they termed the ungodly activities of these faceless mischief makers whom they alleged was targeted at destroying the winner of the contest, Hon. Mao Ohuabunwa.

They dismissed the irregularities allegations raised in the tribunal as baseless, unfounded and an act done with the intent of tarnishing the image of the Senator-Elect, Ohuabunwa and upturning the peoples’ mandate.

“We condemn in strong terms the current propaganda being spread by some mischief makers purportedly working for PPA and its band of electoral liabilities aimed at distracting the Election Petition Tribunal sitting in Umuahia by alleging that some of the ad-hoc staff that participated in the March 28th National Assembly election “allegedly” carted away falsified electoral materials.

“It is a well-known fact that the Abia North Senatorial Election was conducted transparently by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and that Hon. Mao Ohuabunwa won the said election with a landslide. Maybe these mischief makers and their paymasters need to be reminded of the implication of making such wild allegations” he said.

The group wondered why the same mischief makers and their supporters praised the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) before the polls and only to turn their back against them when it was clear to them they have lost the contest.

“Ahead of the elections, the losers of the Abia North Senatorial Election were singing the praises of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), but soon after the results were declared and they lost the election, they resorted to name – calling, blackmail and other subterfuge to disparage the election which was adjudged by local and international observers to be free and fair”.

The group reminded these mischief makers that election is all about winning the people through verifiable achievement that must have touched their lives in different ways and not by propaganda and character assassination which does nobody any good.

They informed that Abians still remember with horror the fact that it was the same people who introduced “voodooism” into the political landscape of the state.

Photo: Joe Oroye

Sheik Dahiru Bauchi expresses confidence in new government From Ahmed Kaigama, Bauchi

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enowned Islamic scholar, Sheikh Dahiru Usman Bauchi has expressed confidence that the in-coming Buhari-led federal government will be fair, just and humane to all Nigerians irrespective of different leanings in meeting their needs and aspirations.

Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi also hoped that the new central government will comprise of credible people whose advises and acumen would adequately tailor the yearning and aspirations of the downtrodden masses of the country.

Tahir who spoke yesterday at the opening ceremony of the 29th Annual National Maulud of Sheikh Ibrahim Nyass tagged ‘Sheikh Week’, also wished the out-going Jonathan administration team members brighter future endeavors.

“We wish the in-coming federal administration will comprise of credible people whose advices and know-how will culminate to meeting the needs and aspirations of Nigerians, and those leaving the stage a prosperous and brighter future endeavors”, he said.

Sheikh Tahir Usman Bauchi similarly prayed for peaceful coexistence of the diverse people

of Nigeria towards the success of the in-coming administration in piloting the affairs of the nation.

He explained that the weeklong Maulud celebrations which will future various Islamic activities will be witnessed by disciples of Sheikh Ibrahim Nyass across the globe especially African countries such as Niger Republic, Morocco, Algeria, Senegal and Egypt, among others.

Also speaking, the Emir of Bauchi, Dr. Rilwanu Suleiman Adamu expressed delight for staging the 29th Maulud of Sheikh Nyass in Bauchi, and commended organizers of the event for the gesture.

The emir who was represented

by the District Head of Kobi, Alhaji Abdullahi Yakubu Abdullahi, explained that Bauchi is known for its hospitality and therefore enjoined the people to give warm reception to delegates for the global event holding in the state.

Dr. Rilwanu Suleiman Adamu hinged the holding of the 29th Sheikh Ibrahim Nyas Maulud in Bauchi to its peace relativity, stressing that no meaningful development can take place in a chaotic atmosphere.

The weeklong event opening ceremony which was chaired by the Emir of Dass, Alhaji Usman Bilyaminu Othman attracted Nyass disciples from various walks of life across the country.

Senate Presidency: odds favour Akume -campaign team

By Umar Muhammad Puma

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s the race for the Senate Presidency gets hotter, a member of Akume for Senate President Campaign Team, Mr Simon Shango, has said the current Minority Leader, Senator George Akume (APC Benue), had upper hand to become the President of the Senate.

Speaking to journalists over the weekend, Shango, described Senator Akume as the best man for the job, stating that he has been the shadow Senate President, and that over the years, he has learnt the job and gotten the patience to deal with the arrogance of the ruling class.

“By virtue of his position as the Minority Leader, he is automatically qualified to become

the next President of the Senate, as all over the world once an opposition wins an election the senate minority leader automatically becomes the Senate President.

“As minority leader, Akume was the opposition Senate President.

They sent him for a learning course to learn the job so that if he is reelected, he would have used his many years of learning to become a Senate President.

“He has learnt, he has known about it. He has over the years, gotten the patience of dealing with the arrogance ruling class Senators.

He was sent for a course and he has passed. He got a distinction.

“Akume was the shadow Senate President as the minority leader.

Who else would be able to know what he knows. Besides, what

Akume has done politically to bring Benue from where it was under an incumbent government to become APC with landslide victory, there can be no reward that will be too much for such a person.

“The biggest issues in Nigeria apart from petroleum are issues of ethnicity and religion. Am sure you know that and you have a President from the North-west, who is Hausa-Fulani and is a Muslim, you have Chief Justice from the North-East who is also a HausaFulani and a Muslim. Now, would you still bring a Muslim in the North –Central who is a Yoruba or Hausa-Fulani, a Muslim and make him the number three person. I am sure the APC will not allow that.”

On the issue of Benue currently occupying the senate presidency,

Shango said, “If there was just one Senator on the platform of the APC from the South-east or South-south, we wouldn’t be talking about the issue. But we are saying it today because of the doctrine of necessity like the issue of Late President Yar’adua.

“The doctrine of necessity is to keep Nigeria going and one. It has arrived again just like in the time of Yar’adua. So, that is what has given Akume the chance higher than Saraki or any other person in the North-central.

“Saraki is a Yoruba man; the vice President is a Yoruba man.

Abdullahi Adamu, though also a minority is a Muslim. Akume is a minority man and a Christian, that is what makes him different, and above all, he has studied the job. He has been tested over the years.”

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PEOPLES DAILY, monday, may 11, 2015

Avoid corrupt persons in your government – UPP tells Buhari Interview

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he general elections have come and gone, as someone who actively participated in the election, you were the presidential candidate of the UPP, what is your overview of the entire exercise?

The Presidential election, which came with the National Assembly election, was generally credible and acceptable. Because, I believe, all attention was focused on it both by Nigeria and the international community.

There had been predictions on what will happen to Nigeria if it didn’t go well and so there was apprehension. Thank God INEC was on top of the situation, trying to make sure it lived up to expectations. The introduction of the card reader, which our party supported vehemently, even when almost at the beginning of the election, the PDP wanted it stopped. In terms of the card readers, majority of the parties did not want the card readers, but it has proved now to be very helpful in ensuring that the votes of Nigerians counted. When the result came out, it should not be any person’s surprise that the major looser, which is the outgoing President, quickly accepted the outcome. Our own party, being a contestant in the election, was the first to put our own congratulatory message in writing to the President-Elect.

So that period marked the end of anything credible by INEC, by the second elections, attention had dropped, people assumed that it would be the same method and therefore, it was going to be credible, but then, all hell was let loose. INEC went back to manual accreditation; security personnel were openly assisting political parties that paid for their services to cart away ballot boxes. Nothing that happened at the polling stations reflected the results that were announced. This was worst in the south east zone. And the result is that as we speak, about sixty seven petitions have been filed against the elections in three south east states alone, whereas there is not a single petition arising from the Presidential election, there will be very few arising from the National Assembly elections nationwide.

This showed that INEC failed completely to sustain what it has well established in the first elections.

You mentioned electoral malpractices, what do you think makes it that difficult to punish electoral offenders as provided in our laws?

It is a very tricky situation,

Chekwas Okorie is the National Chairman of the United Progressives Party (UPP), in this exclusive interview with Peoples Daily, he advises the President-elect, Muhammadu Buhari, to be mindful of those he will pick to work with him, even as he speaks on other national issues.

because the INEC officers in the field compromise themselves.

The security officers, who are supposed to be the prosecutors, also compromise themselves.

They work in tandem to shortchange the people. The law does not allow a private person, except he obtains fiat from the government, to be able to prosecute. So, it is tricky, that is why UPP has always been passionate about the electronic voting system. Look at the election in Britain that took place recently, by the following morning the results were out, and this is what you get when elections are done electronically.

And the technology is already here with us, the infrastructure to go electronic is already there, because we are using electronically generated voters cards, electronically generated voters register. All that is required, now that we have put the card readers into practice, is laptops for the electronic voting system to be complete.

And that was why when we had the opportunity to meet the President-Elect as a party in a courtesy visit; we made only three demands to him. One was for him to recover all our stolen wealth, because we need it for development to take place. Let him takeoff with what is already in the private hands, while the newly generated incomes will now come to assist to propel the developmental drive which he promised. We also want him to declare a state of emergency in the power sector, because we are aware of the mess the outgoing government made with what they called the privatization and that is why the power supply in this country has become worst than it has ever been, and will remain so if there is no critical overview of what transpired, so that that energy sector, which is key to any other aspect of development. The third demand that we made was for him to make sure, as the Presidentelect, that the electoral reform continues and take Nigeria to a much higher level in subsequent elections. And he has proved to be a listening President; within forty eight hours of making that demand, Muhammadu Buhari, told the whole world and it is in the news; that he was going to ensure that subsequent elections in Nigeria will be the best Nigeria has ever had. He even admitted that he will recover all recoverable, even though this is one thing some Nigerians

Chekwas Okorie will not want to hear. Even the issue of power, even though he did not mention them, I am sure that one is very dear to him. We didn’t go there with a shopping list, asking for this or that, no. If our opposition will be as credible as we promised, it will be intervening in all of these critical areas. He has shown that he is a listening President and we are comfortable with that, and in that way, we can go very far as collaborators in the national project.

On the matter of recovering stolen resources, even the President-elect expressed worry that it might be misconstrued as witch hunting. What is your take on this?

The UPP shall join the vanguard to mobilize public opinion, to support that effort.

We know that it is going to require mobilization of public opinion to understand that what he is doing is for all of us. And UPP not being a party in government, being in opposition, is in a good position to counter other opposition parties that may want to take advantage of a genuine effort to distract the President.

And I can assure you that the good commendation, which that recommendation we made to him, has received in the social media, points to the fact that it will be easy for us to mobilize public support for recovering

all of these stolen public wealth.

We are also advocating that measures must be put in place to discourage further stealing.

This is because we have a very loose system that seems to encourage stealing and other forms of corruption. A system that will allow what is called plea bargain, and somebody who has made monumental stealing of our treasury, will just part with very little and the court will allow him to go and enjoy the rest, is a terrible system. System that makes somebody declares his private assets on getting into office and not make it public and there is no more to be heard of it until he leaves office is bad.

We said that it must be made public. Luckily, the incoming President has made a similar pronouncement that he was going to do so and ensure that it is done by his associates. He also said he will ensure that it is will be repeated on leaving office.

But our own position is that this declaration of assets must be done annually. That will help the public to monitor their assets.

So Nigerians should be carried along in protecting their common wealth.

Considering the massive support which Nigerians gave the President-elect, with inherent expectations, what do you think he should do to satisfy the yearning of the masses who voted

overwhelmingly for him?

He is not a magician and we don’t expect him to become one overnight. We also know that he is a very straightforward man, like I did said; he is a man who has cast his character in the concrete moral wall, so he should not be afraid of throwing stones or stepping on toes because he has nothing to hide. Having said that, his personal examples will go a long way in helping everybody to come along because the issue of our development, the issue of our attitude and the issue of our value system are the individual contribution that will make everything to work. Buhari at the head is the person that is being looked upon as a model for people to follow. And because of that, he has to be very careful in selecting the people to work with.

Even though he is not God, he cannot read somebody’s face and know what is in his heart, but yet there are certain yardsticks to use in recommending anybody for very critical position, and when anybody is not doing the best and members of the public come up with verifiable information that a person is drawing the wheel back, he should not hesitate to act.

That is the way to beat everybody in the line without using either the whip or being autocratic. The most democratic way is to make everybody to become part of this effort. What is important is good and sound policies. We have state governments that have not exploited any of their comparative advantages which God gave every state in abundance. All they do is to wait every month, they come to Abuja, collect the allocation and they go and share it, and they wait for the next thirty days. There must also be a limit to what is called security votes.

Some governors take advantages of the civil disturbances in their areas to hike their security votes to unimaginable figures and they must collect this security votes even when salaries and overhead are yet to be paid for. This security votes must be accounted for, the unfortunate this is that they are never accounted for since this our democracy began.

These are national policies that will permeate to the lower levels.

Even if it needs amending the relevant laws, there will be an executive Bill to the National Assembly to amend the laws.

Like I have said earlier, most of the companies that took over the power sector are not competent.

These are just cronies of the outgoing government.

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PEOPLES DAILY, monday, may 11, 2015

Strong Fiscal Responsibility panacea for corruption - FRC Ag. Chair

By Ochiaka Ugwu

A

cting Chairman of Fiscal Responsibility Commission (FRC), Barrister Victor Muruako has said that strengthening the commission’s Act will surely nip the widespread corruption that is prevalent in Ministries, Parastatals and Agencies (MPAs) in the bud.

Muruako who also appealed to President-elect, General Muhammadu Buhari to strengthen the commission’s Act noted the best way to fight corruption is to ensure that activities of government are

scrutinized.

The commission said if the commission was allowed and strengthened it will be the best way to go.

Addressing a press conference in Abuja, Acting Chairman stated that the commission had been able to assess and ensured the remittance of about N350 billion operating surplus by scheduled corporation to the consolidated revenue fund between 2009 and 2014.

He also said his commission had succeeded in ensuring compliance by the ministry of Finance with Medium Term

Expenditure Framework (MTEF) in the operation of budget.

Muruako, therefore, advised the incoming Buhari government to ensure that states in the federation embrace fiscal responsibility by domesticating the fiscal responsibility laws to improve finance management.

“We are asking that the in-coming administration specifically pay attention to this Act. We are saying that the best way to fight corruption is by prudency, efficiency, bringing about accountability; not only at the national level but even at the states.

“Some governors are borrowing money they don’t need even at the last minutes to the end of their government.”

While calling on all Nigerians to take proper look and show more interest in the Fiscal Responsibility Act, so that the country will be better for it, Muruako appealed to the Banks’ Chief Executives to always liaise with their legal department towards ensuring that loan grants follow due process.

He frowned at the way governors are collecting loans they don’t even need stressing that most of the loans giving

to the state governors were in contrary to the Act. He maintained that is only through sound institutional governance that Nigeria can make a difference in fiscal produce and transparency.

Reacting to the report of Oransaye Committee that recommended for the scrapping of the commission, Muruako said “if the Oransaye report as it relates to the FRC could be seen as unwholesome, the subsequent white paper on the report sanctioning its recommendation can best be described as “simply abhorrent.”

L-R, Bank of Industry (BOI), Executive Secretary Small and Medium Scale Industries, Mr. Waheed Olagunju, BOI Director, Chief Chief Lawrence Osayemi, BOI Managing Director, Mr. Rasheed Olaoluwa, BOI Chairman of Board, Alhaji Abdulsamad Rabiu, during BOI Annual General Meeting (AGM), yesterday in Abuja.

Photo: Joe Oroye

Vandalism: Kano Disco seeks stronger bond with Police

By Etuka Sunday

I

n a bid to ensure safety of property and lives of its staff, the Kano Electricity Distribution Plc (KEDCO) is seeking a more pragmatic acquaintance and support from officers of the Nigerian Police Force.

A statement by the

Communications Coordinator, KEDCO, Mohammed Kandi said the effort was brought to fore recently in Kano, when a team of experts from KEDCO paid a courtesy visit to the Assistant Inspector-General of police incharge of Zone One, comprising Kano, Katsina and Jigawa states, AIG Tambari Yabo.

Kabir Umar Gano, KEDCO’s

Ag. Chief Admin Officer who led the team on the visit expressed his satisfaction with the level of enthusiasm the police have always displayed watching over KEDCO facilities in the zone.

Gano also stressed the need for additional security personnel to be deployed around KEDCO property assuring that, the management

was working assiduously to tackle myriad of challenges that are militating against improved power supply.

He said: “Really, we are battling with a couple of challenges including vandalism, theft of cables, and transformer oil amongst others.”

Responding, AIG Tambari Yabo thanked the management

team from KEDCO and pledged that the police would do its best in protecting KEDCO possessions from any threat.

He further informed that his men would achieve the objectives via “information sharing, proper investigation and prosecution of vandals within the three states of its operation.”

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PEOPLES DAILY, monday, may 11, 2015

Business Wema Bank assures shareholders of improved performance

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hareholders of Wema Bank Plc have been assured of improved performance come 2015.

Addressing shareholders at the bank’s Annual General Meeting in Lagos, Chairman of the the bank, Mr. Adeyinka Asekun, said Wema bank is expected to consolidate on the successes recorded in 2014 and the previous years.

“The benchmarks for the bank in 2015 as it has been in recent times, ill continue to be challenging as we push the limits of what is attainable. We will continue to leverage on technology and innovation to transform customers experience while we accelerate our digital business platform to allow us meet our customers where they are.”

According to him, Wema Bank will continue to evolve even in the coming months as it explore new frontiers in business development, service delivery and settlement platforms. “We will expand our footprint in 2015 in an efficient manner in order to get maximum returns on our investment.”

The bank, he said recorded an impressive performance within the period. Total assets according to him, grew by 16 per cent to N382 billion from N331 billion in 2013just as deposits grew by 19 per cent to N259 billion from N 218 billion in the same period in 2013.

Gross earnings was up by 14 per cent to N42 billion while Net interest income increased to 18 billion representing 38 per cent increase.

Commenting on 2014 financial performance, Wema Bank boss explained that the bank remained focused on its core areas of expertise especially the retail and commercial segment of the market as it navigated the systematic headwinds of the second half of the year.

Shareholders of the bank expressed dissatisfactions over non-payment of dividend by the bank over the last five years.

Specifically, the Coordinator Ibadan Shareholders Association, Mr. Shola Abodunrin said, “We want dividend for our investments.

We cannot be investing our money without anything to show for it. We have exercised patient enough and we want the bank to do all it can to pay us dividend next year.”

Corroborating, the President, Solidarity Shareholders Association of Nigeria Timothy Adesina commended Wema bank for the improved performance recorded last but urged the bank to ensure shareholders get returns for their investments.

L-R: Consul of Cote d’Ivoire, Mr. John Olatunde Ayeni, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Aminu Walli, and Executive Director/ CEO, Nigerian Export Promotion Council, Mr. Olusegun Awolowo, during presentation of letter of commission by honorary consul of Cote d’Ivore Mr.Ayeni to the minister, recently in Abuja.

Photo: Mahmud Isa

Shareholders commend Access Bank N13.7bn dividend A

from Ngozi Onyeakusi, Lagos

ccess Bank shareholders have commended the management of the bank for the impressive performance just as they endorsed a N13.73 billion final dividend declared for the 2014 financial year.

The dividend came to a 35 kobo per share and this is in addition to the interim dividend earlier paid to them, bringing the total dividend paid for the 2014

financial year to 60 kobo per share The shareholders while making comments at the 26th Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Lagos, noted that in spite of the challenging environment, the bank recorded improved performance.

They also commended the management of Access Bank for keeping the bank’s nonperforming loans at lower digit, thereby placing the bank at the fore front of banks that are sound

and healthy in the country.

President of the Progressive Shareholders of Nigeria, Mr Boniface Okezie, said the bank needs to be commended for paying 60 kobo dividend despite the rising funds through rights issue, a decision that could make other banks not to pay dividend at all.

The chairman of the bank, Mr Gbenga Oyebode, said that in the year under review, the bank improved its revenue generation

capacity as gross earnings rose to N245 billion from what was recorded in 2013, while profit before tax rose by 20 per cent to N52 billion.

“As we pursue our mission and vision, we are confident that the strategic direction we have chosen is sound. We will maintain our strong capital and liquidity, managing risk effectively and operating efficiently to reduce costs,” Oyebode stated.

efforts to build a viable SME sector in the country.

The bank said the capacitybuilding workshop organised for its clients operating in the SME sector was meant to provide the operators the relevant skills they could readily deploy to transform their businesses and grow their bottom line.

The Executive Director, Personal and Business Banking, Stanbic IBTC Bank, Obinnia Abajue, said, “The SME sector is pivotal to the economic growth and development of any nation and Nigeria is no exception, which is why the seminar was conceived to avail the SME operators exposure to modern and innovative marketing,

financial and management skills that are useful to their businesses, which will help them to attract the necessary funding for growth.”

Abajue, who was represented by the Head of Business Banking, Lloyd Onaghinon, said the bank was committed to building a strong SME base in Nigeria by empowering operators with the right business skills and adequate funding, among others.

“Stanbic IBTC Bank has a rich pedigree of building capacity for the SMEs and providing the much-needed support in terms of funding and skills acquisition because we understand the important linkages provided by the SMEs to industries and employment

generation. This seminar is one of several ways the bank continues to build capacity in the SME sector,” Abajue said.

He observed that the course content for the workshop and the resource persons were carefully chosen to ensure that the over 400 participants derived maximum benefits from the seminar.

He said the seminar course content was streamlined to include essential topics such as building financial records, achieving success in marketing, business planning and people management, adding that it was a unique offering by Stanbic IBTC to develop and sharpen the participants’ business skills.

Stanbic IBTC set to raise N24bn via right

S

tanbic IBTC Holdings has concluded plans to raise N24 billion from the nation’s capital market by a way of rights.

The plan which still awaits shareholders approval would assist the group to achieve its growth targets, Stanbic IBTC, majority owned by South Africa’s Standard Bank, said it would seek approval at a general meeting come next month.

Stanbic IBTC Bank had last month opened a new branch in Kano.

This came just as the bank recently equipped Small and Medium Enterprises operators with financial, marketing and management skills as part of

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PEOPLES DAILY, monday, may 11, 2015

Capital Market Blue chips drag down market by 0.92% from Ngozi Onyeakusi, Lagos

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ransaction on the floor of the Nigeria Stock Exchange (NSE) last ended on a bearish trend as the market ended lower.

Specifically, Market Capitalization of listed equities depreciated by 0.92% to close on Friday at N11.678 trillion from N11.787 trillion it opened with while the NSE All-Share Index as well dropped by 0.92 per cent to close at 34,388.21 basis points from 34,708.11basis points recorded the previous week.

Similarly, five Indices finished lower during the week with the exception of the NSE Banking, NSE Insurance and NSE Industrial Goods indices that rose by 2.02%, 0.57% and 1.42% respectively.

The NSE 30 index dropped by 8.52 bsis points to 1,579.54, Consumer Goods Index down by 22.20 basis points to 858.42, NSE Oil/Gas index fell by 2.77 basis points to 379.47, NSE Lotus II loss 34.28 basis points to close at 2,241.51 points.

Meanwhile, a turnover of 1.584 billion shares worth N20.151 billion in 23,279 deals were traded this week by investors in contrast to a total of 1.169 billion shares valued at N11.961 billion that exchanged hands last week in 17,769 deals.

The Financial Services Industry (measured by volume) led the activity chart with 1.088 billion shares valued at N8.991 billion traded in 13,220 deals; thus contributing 68.66% and 44.62% to the total equity turnover volume and value respectively. The Conglomerates Industry followed with a turnover of 227.840 million shares worth N920.617 million in 1,082 deals.

The third place was occupied by the Consumer Goods Industry with 121.859 million shares worth N7.703 billion in 4,123 deals.

Trading in the Top Three Equities namely- United Bank for Africa Plc, Transnational Corporation of Nigeria Plc, and Access Bank Plc, (measured by volume) accounted for 678.964 million shares worth

N3.247 billion in 2,943 deals, contributing 42.85% and 16.11% to the total equity turnover volume and value respectively.

Thirty-two (32) equities appreciated in price during the week, higher than thirty-one (31) equities of the preceding week. Forty-five (45) equities depreciated in price, higher than forty-one (41) equities of the preceding week, while one hundred and sixteen (116) remained unchanged lower than one hundred and twenty (120) equities of the preceding week Vitafoam Nigeria Plc led gainers table for the week, growing by 32.51 per cent or

N1.57 kobo to close at N6.40 kobo, C&I Leasing followed with a gain of 26.92 per cent or N0.14 kobo to close at N0.66 kobo while Red Star Express increased by 24.34 per cent or N0.92 kobo to close at N4.70 kobo. Other companies recorded price appreciation were Honey Well Flour Mills 20.73 per cent, Cap Plc 20.58 per cent, Ecobank Transnational Incorporated 18.31 per cent, Caverton Offshore Support GRP Plc 15.00 per cent University Press Plc 13.46 per cent, International Energy Insurance Company 11.76 per cent and May & Baker Nigeria Plc 9.82 per cent.

Unity Bank topped losers chart dropping by 32.65 per cent or N1.27 kobo to close at N2.62 kobo, Learn Africa Plc trial with a loss of 11.19 per cent or N0.16 kobo to close at N1.27 kobo while Associated Bus Company fell by 9.52 per cent or N0.06 kobo. Other companies recorded price depreciation were Academy Press 9.43 per cent, Cement Company of Northern Nigeria 9.40 per cent, Royal Exchange Assurance Plc 9.09 per cent, Forte Oil Plc 8.24 per cent, FBNHoldings 7.14 per cent, Sterling Bank 6.11 per cent and Costain (West Africa ) pLc.

Also traded during the week were a total of 1.388 million units of Exchange Traded Products (ETPs) valued at N31.490 million executed in 47 deals compared with a total of 11,737 units valued at N1.799 million transacted last week in 15 deals.

A total of 4,569 units of Federal Government Bonds valued at N4.966 million were traded this week in 2 deals compared with a total of 330 units of Federal Government Bonds valued at N370,698.04 transacted last week in 2 deals.

Continental Reinsurance posts N4.8bn GP in 2015 Q1

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ontinental Reinsurance Plc had posted gross premium written of N4.8 billion for the first quarter ended 31st March, 2015 compared to N4 billion recorded in the same period of 2014.

According to the firms filing with the Nigeria Stock Exchange NSE) Profit after tax as well increased to N837.2 million within the period from N606.8 million achieved in the same period last of year.

The firm in the 2014 financial year ended 31st December, 2014 recorded gross earnings growth rate of 7.4 per cent to N16.15

billion from N15.04 billion 2013.

The Group Managing Director, Continental Re, Dr. Femi Oyetunji, said the company made strong strides last year in the execution of its five-year strategic growth plan to be the premier pan-African reinsurer.

He said the company inaugurated its North African office in Tunisia and extended its footprint in Africa with the opening of a regional hub for Southern Africa in Gaborone, Botswana.

The company now operates from six locations across the continent namely Lagos, Douala,

Nairobi, Abidjan, Tunis and Gaborone, he said.

“Going forward, our focus will be to optimise returns from these capital investments by consolidating our brand presence, enhancing our client services, securing strong growth in premiums, streamlining our underwriting practices, enhancing our operational efficiencies and strengthening our already formidable multi-national talent pool,” Oyetunji said.

The company’s underwriting profit fell to N1.37bn in 2014, down from N1.68bn in 2013, while its claims expenses rose

by 15.5 per cent to N7.37bn from N6.38bn last year.

Its investment and other income rose to N1.43bn in 2014 from N1.40bn in 2013, while it recorded a foreign exchange loss of N391m in 2014 as against a gain of N202m in 2013.

The company’s profit before tax dropped by 28.7 per cent year-on-year to N1.59bn in 2014, according to its financial results.

Its profit after tax also declined by 51.1 per cent to N856m in 2014, from N1.75bn in 2013 due to additional back duty taxes levied on it.

L-R: Ibadan Tax Controller, Mr. Samson Omotoso; Zonal Coordinator, South-West Tax Office, Mr. Ajose Rasak, and Director, Business Department, Federal Inland Revenue Service, Mr. Olufemi Faniyi, during a sensitisation workshop on activities of government business tax department for ministries, departments and agencies in SouthWest Zone, recently in Ibadan.

Photo: NAN

Caverton rewards shareholders with 10k

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hareholders of Caverton Offshore Support Group will be smiling home with 10kobo per share for the financial year ended 31st December, 2014.

Shareholders of the firms at its Annual General Meeting held in Lagos, approved the said dividend, which will be payable to all investors whose names appeared in the company register and that translate to N335 million.

They equally commended

the Board of Directors for increasing the company’s investment value through the planned dividend payout and adherence to corporate governance principles.

They urged on the management to explore new business opportunities in order to consolidate its performance and accelerate the company’s growth.

The Chairman, Dynamic Shareholders Association, Mr. Adio Alex, commended the

company’s dividend policy and said there was the need to reduce its operating cost in order to improve on its current performance next year.

To enhance profitability and diversify business activities, the COSG management and board need to consider going to the capital market to raise additional funds, according to the Chairman, Professional Shareholders Association, Mr. Godwin Anono.

He said, “With the growth

in your revenue, you can do more. You can raise more money to diversify into other areas because other investors may look for a way to key into with what you are doing. The offshore business in Nigeria is growing and you need to work to ensure that you are number one in that sector.”

Addressing shareholders at the meeting, the Chairman, COSG, Mr. Aderemi Makanjuola attributed the growth recorded by the firm

to the implementation of the company’s strategic plans.

According to him, the group’s revenue grew by 33 per cent year-on-year from N18.66 billion to N24 billion in the period under review.

He noted that an exchange translation loss of N2 billion resulted from the official devaluation of the naira, leading to a drop in net income from N1.8 billion in 2013 to N979 million in the period under review.

Page 22

PEOPLES DAILY, monday, may 11, 2015

Interview

‘We shall turn Kaduna Electric into a world class service provider’ In an interview with journalists in Kaduna, the Managing Director/CEO, Kaduna Electric, Engr. Garba Haruna bares his mind on the journey so far- five months after taking over the Company, the challenges and his plans for the future. Excepts…

W

hy did you go into the business in the first instance?

We ventured into the electricity business because we want to bring our expertise and wealth of experience to bear on the sector. We want to add value to the industry and further meet the xpectation of all stakeholders in the value chain; from our customers, the regulators, the government, the business community etc are all in agreement that there must be improvement in the sector to drive the socio-economic locomotive of the country.

How has it been so far?

Not easy. When it was a government entity, it was realized that there is a lot of inefficiencies in the electricity sector, so the government decided to privatize it to allow efficiency and improvement,

which is the essence of privatization. That is natural and logical, if you have an asset that is not adding value to the society, what is the wisdom keeping it, but where you are making money on an asset you would not want to part with it.

What are your plans for the Company?

Our plan is to change what we can change, but not overnight because, the company has been there for over forty years, so the needed change will be gradual, we know the structures of the business, and we understand the business of electricity. We also know where it pinches, we shall restructure the company both in terms of workforce and operational excellence, In fact, we understand the company we bought.

The regulator said to us after taing over; take about six

Months to change what can be changed study the situation critically and roll out your plans to better the organization. In the past, Gencos, TCN and DISCOS were all owned and run by government, whether you pay or you don’t pay your bills, it does not matter, since they are all government entities; but the new arrangement now is that the structure is that Generation and Distribution is privately owned and only the Transmission company was retained by government, the idea is that a private company cannot sell electricity cheap without paying for it hundred percent. Now all participants in the electricity market must meet up their obligations in totality, distribution companies must pay their bills to the Transmission Company and the transmission company in turn must settle its bills to the

COLLEGE OF EDUCATION, AZARE P. M. B. 044, AZARE BAUCHI STATE

(OFFICE OF THE REGISTRAR) INVITATION FOR PRE-QUALIFICATION AND TENDER The College of Education, Azare intends to carry out construction and renovation works as part of the TETFund Normal Intervention Projects for the 2014 2014 TETFund NORMAL INTERVENTION PROJECTS A. Construction Work: a. Construction of High Income Living Flat for the Home Economics Department B. Renovation Work: a. Renovation/Rehabilitation of 300 Capacity Lecture Theatres b. Renovation/Rehabilitation of School of Science Block c. Renovation/Rehabilitation of 500 Capacity Lecture Theatres 2. PRE QUALIFICATIONS Reputable and technically competent Contractors with verifiable tract records of performance on similar jobs are hereby invited to apply. All applications for Pre-qualification must be in line with due process guidelines: a.

Evidence of Incorporation (CAC) Certificate b.

Evidence of TAX Clearance Certificate for the last three (03) years c.

Evidence of Financial Capability and Banking support d.

Evidence of Registration with the College e.

Company Audited Account for 3-years prepared by Chattered Accountants and duly signed f.

Evidence of similar projects executed g.

Annual Turnover h.

VAT Registration and Evidence of Past VAT Remittance i.

Evidence of payment of education TAX (as applicable) j.

Original copies of documents above MUST be produced for Scrutiny opening session 3. TENDER You are to note that, only contractors that are successful in the Pre-qualification will be allowed to tender.

Tender documents are available for purchase at non-refundable fee of N50, 000.00 (Fifty Thousand Naira Only) within two weeks from the date of this publication.

4. SUBMISSION OF COMPLETED PRE-QUALIFICATION TENDER DOCUMENTS The above documents MUST be submitted in sealed envelopes clearly marked “PRE-QUALIFICATION TO TENDER” and shall be delivered to:THE REGISTRAR, COLLEGE OF EDUCATION, AZARE P. M.B. 044 AZARE BAUCHI STATE This advertisement is for Technical Bide for Pre-qualification of contractors. Prospective contractors are to submit their company profile for Pre-qualification not later than two weeks from the date of this advert (Monday 25th May, 2015). Only successful contractors after pre-qualification will be invited to tender.

Tender shall be opened 6-weeks from the date of this advertisement (22nd June, 2015).

NB Please note that the College reserves the right to verify any claim made by the bidders and shall not be liable to accept the lowest bidder Signed Ali Ahmed Adamu Registrar

generation companies and so it goes down the ladder.

There is this rumour making the rounds that your company is deliberately denying the people power supply through the load shedding exercise, how do you react to that allegation?

Those who understand the way the technology works know that you can’t hoard or store electricity, once it is generated, it must be transmitted and distributed. In fact, it has to go to the end user- weather a paying customer or not.

In terms of generation, the current allocation to Kaduna Electric is 8% of the total national generation. By this simple sharing formular approved by Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), it means that, if 4000 MW is generated, Kaduna Electric gets 8%, even if it’s 10,000 MW the percent is still 8%. The present allocation is not enough for Kaduna state alone and our franchise areas cover Kaduna, Zamfara, Sokoto and Kebbi States. This necessitated the current power rationing, since we don’t get enough energy, we decided to share what is being given to us so that everybody will have a bit of it but there is low generation, from 4000MWs it dropped to about 2,500MWs lately and we don’t have our own power plant in Kaduna and other means of generation where we can boldly say we are hundred percent in charge.

The workers of Kaduna Electric recently carriedout a protest and part of their grievances include stoppage of unionism and medical services by the management, what is your reaction?

How can we discourage unionism when our management has been having series of meetings with the union? Some things require clarification.

What we discovered or realized is that the protest is more political than agitation for workers welfare, those who lost out during the bidding process of the privatization decided to instigate the unions to destabilize our operations.

We can listen to the union if the issues at hand affect staff salary and allowances, just like the way we stopped the discrepancies in staff salaries by centralizing the system and insisted staff salary be paid to staff bank account. We in the private sector don’t need the union to come and tell us ABCD to do our job.

Managing Director, Kaduna Electric, Engr. Garba Haruna What we need is consultation as a distribution company, and it is on that basis that we you can present a draft tariff have being having consultations proposal to NERC and they with them. We can sit and analyze every components that discuss issues and talk things triggers MYTO functionality by over. The union members are considering such areas as the Comrades and they should inflation rate, exchange rate, realize what they represent and current generation capacity, stop the unnecessary agitation size of customers etc. After the proposal is exhaustively in the interest of all.

On medical services, we scrutinised, an approval for inherited huge debts under implementation or otherwise the current arrangement with could be given.

On metering, more than Hospitals and Clinics whereby staff can be treated and will be sixty thousand meters that are in paid. The hospitals and clinics circulation are bye passed, most approached us when we came customers do not come to vend, on board with debt of over Four the service wires which ought Hundred Million naira and that have looped through meters are if this huge debt is not paid, they bye passed by customers and can no longer render services this is not healthy for business and in private sector if you pay globally.

Since you took over, such amount of debt. We viewed the debt as a liability issue and there has been an increase forwarded it to NELCOM , the in the price of electricity as agency set up by government well as fixed charges which to handle liability issues in NERC says is illegal and terms of debt, staff severance the ongoing recruitment etc, because the agreement exercise which the union with the government is that, we has alleged is a deceit how should not inherit debts of any many staff will you retain kind. Since we are looking for or sack?

Fixed charges are capacity productive staff, we agreed that if any of our ersonnel falls sick charges. We don’t fix charges. he will be treated and we can It is the responsibility of the pay. Sicknesses and accident regulator to do that, fixed do not happen every day, we charges help DISCOS to recover are also making arrangement their investment and improve to provide world class medical on networks. I don’t think NERC has ever described services for staff. fixed charges as illegal, you How do you arrive at should verify this. In any case, your charges and secondly no distribution company has the can you shed more light on right or power to fix or review your meters deployment tariff. All tariffs are approved by NERC. plan?

You see we are carrying out First of all there is MYTO which is being managed by an evaluation of all our existing NERC, we the Distribution staff, we would retain some, but Companies do not set tariffs, honestly I don’t know how many it is the responsibility of the we are going to retain or let go. If Nigerian Electricity Regulatory they meet our requirements why Commission to do so. However not, but we will try our possible under the pricing regime, what best in the evaluation process to NERC said is, going forward, retain best and qualified staff.

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PEOPLES DAILY, monday, may 11, 2015

Stock Watch:

Thursday, May 8, 2015

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Peoples Daily, Monday, May 11, 2015

PAGE 24

Special Report

Langtang: The Nepal village wiped out by earthquake W

e’d travelled on a reconnaissance mission with two British Gurkhas.

You can watch our report here but be warned, it is very upsetting.

Until last week Langtang village was one of the most popular trekking destinations in Nepal. It was home to 435 people and 55 hotels and guest houses.

Now just one house remains.

The earthquake triggered a catastrophic avalanche and landslide that submerged the village under a great plume of ice and rock.

Satellite images taken five days after the earthquake show the entire hillside collapsed more than 700 metres (2,300ft) down onto the village.

In Kathmandu a friend and colleague who works for the BBC Nepali Service, Surendra Phuyal, showed me a picture he’d taken when he was trekking in Langtang in September.

Comparing his picture to our helicopter images of the area now, the epic scale of the landslide became apparent.

One villager said he thought it was at least 100m (350ft) deep. But it is only on the ground that the loss becomes viscerally real.

There were 52 bodies laid out under ragged plastic sheets and tarpaulins when I was there.

I am an emotional man and I’ll admit I struggled to

My cameraman Sanjay Ganguly and I were the first journalists to visit what is reckoned to be the worst hit village in all Nepal. contain the sense of horror I felt. At least one villager has lost every single member of his near family.

According to the villagers, 178 local people died.

No one knows how many foreign tourists have lost their lives.

It was almost lunchtime when the quake struck and trekkers would have been arriving at the tea houses and restaurants in the village One of the Nepalese officers helping the villagers recover bodies from the area said the working estimate was that as many as 150 trekkers could have died in the disaster.

At least one British man is known to be missing, 23-yearold Mathew Carapiet, but the British government believes there may be more.

Langtang has been the focus of a massive airlift, with more than 200 people brought out of the area in helicopters.

The villagers who are still there do have food and shelter but they want to bury their dead. They say they want help to bring the bodies up from Langtang village to a

Just one house was left standing in Langtang after the landslide

site at the top of the valley.

They say they need a grand lama to perform the service.

Meanwhile they continue to dig in the devastation for the dead.

While we were there they brought out another victim, a young female tourist.

The rescue teams say it could be weeks before they recover all the bodies.

Meanwhile, the 2015 Nepal earthquake (also known as the Gorkha earthquake) which killed more than 7,000 people and injured more than

twice as many, occurred at 11:56 NST on 25 April, with a moment magnitude (Mw) of 7.8Mw[1] or 8.1Ms[2] and a maximum Mercalli Intensity of IX (Violent). Its epicenter was the village of Barpak, Gorkha district, and its hypocenter was at a depth of approximately 15 km (9.3 mi).

It was the most powerful disaster to strike Nepal since the 1934 Nepal-Bihar earthquake. Some casualties were also reported in the adjoining areas of India, China, and Bangladesh.

The earthquake triggered an avalanche on Mount Everest, killing at least 19, making it the deadliest day

on the mountain in history.

It triggered another huge avalanche in Langtang valley, where 250 were reported missing.

Hundreds of thousands of people were made homeless with entire villages flattened, across many districts of the country. Centuries-old buildings were destroyed at UNESCO World Heritage sites in the Kathmandu Valley, including some at the Kathmandu Durbar Square, the Patan Durbar Square and the Bhaktapur Durbar Square.

Geophysicists and other experts had warned for decades that Nepal was vulnerable to a deadly earthquake,

The landslide destroyed everything in its path

particularly because of its geology, urbanization, and architecture.

Continued aftershocks occurred throughout Nepal within 15-20 minute intervals, with one shock reaching a magnitude of 6.7 on 26 April at 12:54:08 NST. The country also had a continued risk of landslides.

The earthquake occurred at a depth of approximately 15 km (9.3 mi) (which is considered shallow and therefore more damaging than quakes that originate deeper in the ground), with its epicenter approximately 34 km (21 mi) east-southeast of Lamjung, Nepal, lasting approximately twenty

seconds. The earthquake was initially reported as 7.5 Mw by the United States Geological Survey (USGS) before it was quickly upgraded to 7.9 Mw and finally downgraded to 7.8 Mw. The China Earthquake Networks Center (CENC) reported the earthquake’s magnitude to be 8.1 Ms. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) said two powerful quakes were registered in Nepal at 06:11 UTC and 06:45 UTC. The first quake measured 7.9 Mw and its epicenter was identified at a distance of 80 km to the northwest of Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal. Bharatpur was the nearest major city to

the main earthquake, 53 km (33 mi) from the epicenter.

The second earthquake was somewhat less powerful at 6.6 Mw. It occurred 65 km (40 mi) east of Kathmandu and its seismic focus lay at a depth of 10 km (6.2 mi) below the earth’s surface. Over thirtyfive aftershocks of magnitude 4.5 Mw or greater occurred in the day following the initial earthquake, including the one of magnitude 6.6 Mw. According to the USGS, the temblor was caused by a sudden thrust, or release of built-up stress, along the major fault line where the Indian Plate, carrying India, is slowly diving underneath

the Eurasian Plate, carrying much of Europe and Asia.[22] Kathmandu, situated on a block of crust approximately 120 km (75 miles) wide and 60 km (37 miles) long, reportedly shifted 3 m (10 ft) to the south in just 30 seconds.

The risk of a large earthquake was well known beforehand. In 2013, in an interview with seismologist Vinod Kumar Gaur, The Hindu quoted him as saying, “Calculations show that there is sufficient accumulated energy [in the MFT], now to produce an 8 magnitude earthquake. I cannot say when. It may not happen

“

A view of Langtang village in September 2014

tomorrow, but it could possibly happen sometime this century, or wait longer to produce a much larger one.”[26] According to Brian Tucker, founder of a nonprofit organisation devoted to reducing casualties from natural disasters, some government officials had expressed confidence that such an earthquake would not occur again. Tucker recounted a conversation he had had with a government official in the 1990s who said, “We don’t have to worry about earthquakes anymore, because we already had an earthquake”; the previous earthquake to which he

Until last week Langtang village was one of the most popular trekking destinations in Nepal. It was home to 435 people and 55 hotels and guest houses. Now just one house remains. The earthquake triggered a catastrophic avalanche and landslide that submerged the village under a great plume of ice and rock. Satellite images taken five days after the earthquake show the entire hillside collapsed more than 700 metres (2,300ft) down onto the village

referred occurred in 1934.

However, thousands of people gathered across Nepal on Thursday, the last day of a 13-day mourning period for the victims of the deadly earthquake, which struck the region on April 25.

The main event to mark the end of the mourning period was held in the ruins of the Kastamandap temple, after which the capital, Kathmandu, is named.

Nearly 500 people reportedly gathered at Kathmandu’s historic center, Basantapur Durbar Square, to honor the dead. The death toll from the magnitude-7.8 quake has climbed to 8,413 in the Himalayan nation alone, according to reports citing the Nepal Red Cross Society.

“There are so many people and so many buildings we have all lost in the earthquake.

I am here to show my support for these families and to say that we are all here for you,” Alok Shrestha, a citizen who attended the public ceremonies, told pressmen.

Search and rescue efforts, aided by several nations and international agencies, have continued unabated since the quake and its aftershocks flattened wide swathes of the country nearly two weeks ago.

On Wednesday, more than 180 bodies were found in the village of Langtang, about 35 miles north of Kathmandu, according to Reports.

Meanwhile, the Cuban government announced it will send a 48-member medical team to help Nepal cope with the task of treating the more than 16,000 people injured in the deadliest earthquake to hit Nepal in 80 years. The Cuban medical team will include 22 doctors and a field hospital equipped with a surgery unit, an intensive care unit, and X-ray and ultrasound equipment. The field hospital will also have consulting and rehabilitation facilities, according to Reuters.

Nepal’s central bank announced a low-cost loan to help people rebuild homes they lost in the earthquake. The loan will charge a 2 percent interest rate compared to an average commercial interest rate of 10 percent. A bank official also told state-run Radio Nepal that people in Kathmandu could avail up to $25,000 and those outside the capital could avail up to $15,000 in loans.

Source: BBC

Feature

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o understand counterinsurgency, one must understand insurgency to comprehend the dynamics of revolutionary warfare. It is well established that insurgents capitalize on societal problems, often called gaps; counter-insurgency addresses closing the gaps which are exactly what Nigerian troops are doing right now in order to restore sanity in the system and reclaim their position as the most continent effective military that have restored peace in most African countries and beyond. When the gaps are wide, they create a sea of discontent, creating the environment in which the insurgent can operate.

However, the greatest challenge that will bedevil military of any nation is fighting insurgency especially when confronted with a home grown one. “Home grown terrorism” is right now threatening the world from its foundation. Even the so-called super power America is still tackling it in their soil.

From Libya to Somalia, Kenya to Central Africa Republic (CAR) and Niger to Mali it is one kind of insurgency or the other and Nigeria is not an exception as Boko-Haram is threatening the peace and stability this country have been known with before now.

But with recent tactics introduced by the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt-Gen Kenneth Minimah, it seems the tide is changing against the insurgents.

The troops have continued their offensive unhindered recording mind blowing success towards re-establishing Nigeria’s “territorial integrity” and chasing out the militant group from their strongholds.

It was reported that Army Special Forces had killed many militants in battles and have routed them out of their strongholds using jets and attack helicopters to bombard camps in the northeast.

With the change of strategy by the army which led to the imposition a 24-hour curfew in 12 neighbourhoods considered Boko Haram strongholds in the city of Maiduguri, Borno State.

The move has sustained special operation in Boko-Haram war and has forced most of the terrorists to flee their bases in the region sensing hopelessness in the super fire force of the advancing Nigerian army.

Indeed, the Nigerian army again proved itself as a viable institution that is capable of protecting the territorial integrity of the nation when against all odds rescued over 300 women and children near Chalawa Village in Adamawa State and Sambisa forest. This was followed with an arrest of a man said to be the sect’s supplier of fuel and food. The man was arrested at Daban Shata, a suburb of Baga, Borno State.

Speaking on the recent feat achieved by the military on the fight against insurgency, the Director of Defence Information, Major-General Chris Olukolade said, “A man who specializes in supplying fuel and food to

PEOPLES DAILY, monday, may 11, 2015

ANALYSIS

Insurgency: Is Nigerian military winning the war?

As military offensive continues in North-Eastern Nigeria States of Borno, Yobe, Adamawa and some parts of Gombe against the dreaded Boko-Haram insurgents, Ochiaka Ugwu looks at the counter-insurgency activities of Nigeria military which is gathering momentum by the day.

Chief of Army Staff. Lt-Gen Kenneth Minimah terrorists was this morning nabbed in Daban Shata in the suburbs of Baga, Borno State.

The military intelligence had been trailing him till he was eventually trapped in the early hours of Sunday. He is presently undergoing interrogation.

“In another development, troops on patrol yesterday (on Saturday) located 260 women and children in the outskirts of Chalawa village in Adamawa State where they had been held up while trying to escape from terrorists. They have now been

conveyed back to their various communities in Madagali after undergoing the normal security profiling.

“Some of them disclosed that they had to abandon their homes to escape from the terrorists when Madagali came under their attack, while others were actually abducted and taken there. The terrorists were however sacked from the Madagali recently,” he said.

Upon this development, Nigerians have praised the army for its revived battle against the

“

Boko Haram sect, a situation that has led to the displacement of the insurgents from key Adamawa and Borno states’ towns they overran and seized in the past months while others have said it was a belated effort which would have been done before now.

However, it is better late than never, the fact remains that these people have breathed the air of freedom at last which will prepare them for a normal life after rehabilitation by the state.

Moreover, anyone who believes that the successes presently recorded by the military are coming too late should be seen as either a stack ignorant or a Boko Haram sympathizer, because every adult should be able to know the limitations of a country like Nigeria to confront the challenges of a formidable suicidal group, which many countries far ahead of Nigeria in terms of military and intelligence have been tackling unsuccessfully for decades. More so that we have insurgents or their supporters right in the military, updating the sect of every plan or move of the military - this single factor was responsible for a number of deadly ambushes carried out against our hardworking troops occasioning large death tolls, which resulted in abysmal drop in the morale of our troops.

Curiously, the present victories recorded in different battles with the sect, could be attributed to the ability of the military to identify the Boko Haram moles in the military and their politician allies and quarantining them on one hand and the acquisition of the modern weaponry and training which surpassed those of the Boko Haram. These feats took a long time to accomplish.

There are many who will certainly say that in certain matters of urgent national

The willingness of Gen. Minimah to reorganize, rebuild, and reposition his army team, infuse new ideas, and deploy alternative tactical approaches to this question were no doubt responsible for the successes achieved in recent times.

concern, the military authorities seem hard of hearing. On the matter of Boko Haram, certainly before now, the institution seems hard of hearing because it is trying the same failed tactics over and over with the same result; or properly speaking, lack of results.

Those who try the same things and have the same results and yet continue to do the same things to invariant results are either too dumb for words or are candidates for the loony bin. Let us admit that fighting insurgency is not an easy task; it requires a certain level of scrotal foundation and fortitude of the kind that can coldly lop off a head in the interest of a nation.

Sometimes also, what the military brass sees is not always what is; there are dimensions of truth that may be too haunting to tell, and too sublime to even communicate to the public. Yet, even with these facts, it requires a willing and steady method to steer army during trying times. Such a steady hand is what Nigerians have seen in Gen. Minimah, on this matter of national security. Nigerians are seeing a steady hand.

The willingness of Gen. Minimah to reorganize, rebuild, and reposition his army team, infuse new ideas, and deploy alternative tactical approaches to this question were no doubt responsible for the successes achieved in recent times. His resolve to initiate tactical contact with his men to launch a powerful campaign against the insurgents and destroying of powerful forces that is behind the sect’s operational and financial successes also contributed immensely to the recent breakthrough in the military operation.

Against this backdrop, Nigerians have in strong terms condemn the callous, vexatious and narrow-mindedness of those who are accusing the army of not performing describing them as uninformed elements who like to stoke the ambers of fire of disunity to pull down the country.

The fact remains that Nigeria must remain one indivisible and indestructible entity irrespective of tribal, religious or linguistics differences.

Some mischief makers should stop using such to poison the minds of ordinary citizens and it is time everybody should come out openly to support the military in their quest to root out these ugly monsters called Boko-Haram from our land and send them where they rightly belong.

PAGE 27

PEOPLES DAILY, monday, may 11, 2015

Education

Jonathan applauds AUN’s educational standard

From Umar Dankano, Yola

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resident Goodluck Jonathan has commended the effort of American University of Nigeria (AUN) Yola for ensuring qualitative education in the institution.

He said such standards could help Nigerian youths to meet up with competitive global transformation challenges.

President Jonathan gave the commendation at the 7th graduation ceremony of the University tagged; “7th Commencement ceremony Class of 2015”, stressing that with the available record at his disposal the university is fast tracking its graduates into global competitive disciplines ranging from science and technology to human development transformation which is part of his administration’s agenda.

Jonathan who was represented at the occasion at the weekend by

former vice chancellor of Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi, ATBU, Prof. Hamisu Muhammad urged Nigerians with the interest in investing into education sector to emulate the foot print of former vice president Atiku Abubakar in establishing modern education outlets.

Mohammed noted that the National University Commission (NUC) has approved some courses for the university and urged it to sustain the tempo of growth.

However, in his goodwill massage, National Chairman of the All Progressive Congress APC, Chief John Oyegun, assured Nigerians that APC government is committed to opening doors of opportunities for unemployed Nigerians, especially university graduates.

Oyegun who congratulated the graduating students for their success said they should consider

themselves as agents of change for graduating at a time the country was witnessing a change with the emergence of APC government.

“You are graduates of change and you are going to be agents of change. Nigeria is waiting and ready for you”, Oyegun said. on her part, president of the University, Dr. Margee Ensign observed that the AUN is a development university that its curriculum are designed to inject and impart development in Nigeria and the entire continent.

She added that the graduates are fortunate to go through the school and urged them to use their knowledge, skills and techniques to impart the development for the general upliftment of the Black race.

230 graduates were awarded first degrees, post graduate diplomas and Master’s Degrees in various fields.

L-R APC National Chairman, Chief John OdigieOyegun, Kano state Governor-elect, Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, former Vice-President and founder of American University of Nigeria, Atiku Abubakar, during the 7th commencement ceremony of AUN at the Lamido Aliyu Musdafa Commencement Hall, at the weekend in Yola, Adamawa state.

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Professor of Geography at the Department of Geography and Environmental Management, Faculty of Social Sciences ,University of Ilorin, Professor Raphael Abiodun Olawepo has revealed that the creation of Jebba Dam on the Niger River resulted in the displacement of about 6,000 rural inhabitants and loss of about 950ha of farmlands in Jebba area.

The former member of Federal Government Ministerial Committee on hosting of the establishment of the United Nations Climate Change Centre in Nigeria, who stated this in Ilorin urged governments to ensure accountability and transparent while implementing policies on rural dwellers.

Olawepo who stated this while delivering the 157th inaugural lecture of the institution in Ilorin entitled “Learning from the people: A Geographer’s mandate for sustaining rural development”, noted that both federal and state

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he 92nd inaugural lecture of the University of Nigeria (UNN), Nsukka, will hold on Thursday, May 14.

The lecture, titled: ``Global Political Economy and Development of Underdevelopment: Different People, Same Market and Glorification of Poverty”, would be delivered by Prof Aloysius Okolie, a former Chairman of the institution’s Academic Staff Union of Universities.

Okolie, a professor of Political Science at the university, said this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Sunday in Nsukka.

According to him, the lecture will explore the basics of global political economy, trace the roots of development and underdevelopment as well as challenges facing peripheral social formations.

government always isolated rural dwellers when propose policies on them.

The University don who embarked on research on many rural areas in Nigeria using Participatory Rural Appraisal technique (PRA)said he also discovered some lapses in the introduction of modernisation of farming in Tsonga,Kwara State through arrival of. Zimbabwean farmers.

“Six years after continuous farming, a survey evaluation was done through sampling of 240 farmers within their environment.

Results shown that about 20% of the labour force required by the Zimbabwean farmer was obtained within the local environment and most people were employed as labourers, security guards and other unskilled labour.

“Similarly, less than 0.05% of the local farmers were trained to improve local productions while 2.8% of the farmers observed increased productivity and subsequent increase of income as a result of the commercial activities of the foreign farmers.

“The intention of the state government was to bring modernisation into rural farming in Tsonga area, the peasant farmers were not carried along in the planning and implementation of the programme.

“In the end,the impacts of the project are only minimally felt by the local communities, while most of the productions of the Zimbabwean farmers are for international markets.”

The University don added that in Jebba area in 1986 many inhabitants of the area were displaced because of federal government project.

He noted that after the resettlement, there were problems of land, housing inadequacies, infrastructural problems and environmental hazards.

“The nature and dimension of problems confronting rural development in Nigeria requires a new approach to governance.

Governance in the rural areas need to be democratized to make rural development more accountable, transparent, efficient and inclusive”.

``The lecture, at Princess Alexandra Hall of UNN, will explore the basic features of global political economy. ``It will also x-ray the reality of how development across the globe lies in appreciating the politics and demands of societal transformations,’’ he said.

According to him, the lecture will enable guests to take a glossary look at poverty and how the ruling class, in most developing economies, have glorified it as an instrument for domination and appropriation. `` The larger part of the population in developing countries are locked up in absorbing an unending search of stomach infrastructure, thereby, paying little attention to how their national, state and local leaderships are plundering public wealth,’’ Okolie said. (NAN)

UNICEF, SEMA to erect tent classes for IDPs children in Yobe

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6,000 people displaced in Jebba not care for-Unilorin don reveals From Olanrewaju Lawal,Ilorin

UNN holds 92nd inaugural lecture May 14

he Yobe State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) in partnership with UNICEF will set up tent classes for children in Internally Displaced Persons (IDPS) camp.

The SEMA Director of Planning, Relief and Disaster General, Alhaji Bulau Geidam, made the disclosure in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Damaturu on Sunday.

Geidam, who is also the Administrator of IDPs camp, said that the measure was part of effort of the state government to ensure that children in the camp acquire basic education.

He said the agency was targeting to enrol 2,600 children in the IDPs camp for the programme, adding that more facilities would be created to accommodate additional children. ``Already, some nongovernmental organisations have provided playing facilities for the children in the camp, which has help to keep them busy. ``As part of its responsibility, the State Universal Basic Education Board (UBEB) has also provided instruction materials for the children in order to facilitate their learning,’’ Geidam said.

Geidam also said all children in the camp had been immunised against polio, measles and other diseases during the just concluded African Vaccination Week.

The director said that the Yobe Agency for Mass Literacy had commerce skills acquisition training workshop for women in the camp in order to empower them

to be self-reliant.

According to him, the agency in collaboration with the Ministry of Women Affairs is targeting to train 1000 women on sowing and weaving to enable them cater for themselves. ``Some women lost their husband during the Boko Haram attacked which rendered them homeless that is why we want to empower them so that they can take care of their children.’’

Also, Mrs Habiba Makinta, one of the IDPs from Ambiyan Tasha community in Gujba Local Government, expressed appreciation to the state government for providing them with accommodation, foods and shelter. ``We have been in this camp for the pass 40 days, government is providing three square meal for us on daily basis, taken care of our children, health and providing security for us,’’ Makinta told NAN. Makinta, however, appealed to Gov. Ibrahim Gaidam to help them secure accommodation to enable them resume normal life, instead of staying in IDPs camp. ``Raining season and fasting period is fast approaching and living condition at the camp may not be comfortable for us during these period that is why we needs decent accommodation.’’

NAN reports that there were over 3,291 people from seven communities in Gujba Local Government living inside Pampamari IDPs camp in Damaturu.

NAN observed that there was one mobile clinic, one standby ambulance and water tank as well as 13 toilet facilities inside the camp, while six toilet facilities were under construction. (NAN)

PAGE 28

Education

PEOPLES DAILY, monday, may 11, 2015

VC calls for adequate funding of Nigeria Universities From Yakubu Mustapha,Minna

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he Vice Chancellor of the Federal University of Technology (FUT) Minna, Prof. Musbau Adewumi Akanji, has called for adequate funding of Nigerian Universities, to boost research and infrastructural development in the nation’s Institutions.

Prof. Akanji made the call at the weekend in Minna when he received members of the Senior Executive Course 37, of the Nigeria Institute of Policy and Strategic

Studies (NIPSS), Kuru, Jos, Plateau State who paid him a courtesy call at the school campus.

The Vice Chancellor who was represented by the Deputy Vice Chancellor Academic, Prof.

Abdullahi Bala said that funding has been the major problems of Nigerian universities.

He said the challenge of funding has affected most universities in the areas of research output, infrastructure and quality of graduate.

The professor further called on private organizations and

individuals to support the development of the education sector in the country.

Akanji, commended the efforts of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFUND) and Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) for their continued support to tertiary educations in the area of research and infrastructural development.

The vice chancellor observed that the quality and standard of education at the Primary and Secondary school levels “is dwindling because it has been left

in the hands of State and Local governments to manage”.

He further appealed for massive funding of primary and secondary schools in the country because according to him, they are the bedrock and the foundation of education.

Earlier, the leader of the team, Air Cdr. Emmanuel Jekada (Rtd) said the purpose of the visit was to interact with the University’s Management so as to know what the problems are and strategies needed to reposition Nigeria’s educational system for global

L-R: Minister of Education, Malam Ibrahim Shekarau; Executive Secretary, National Universities Commission, Professor Julius Okojie, and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education, Dr Mcjohn Nwobiala, during the presentation of provisional licenses to two private universities, recently in Abuja.

Photo: NAN

School dropout destroys father’s car in Delta From Osakhare Erese, Asaba

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19-yo ld school dropout, Preye Egbon, has pounced on his father’s rickety car with a hammer to protest the decision of his uncle, Mr. Enakaya Egbon, to restrain him from selling the car to a scavenger.

It was gathered that the incident occurred recently at Mr. Egbon’s residence on Erhue close, Oghara, Delta State.

It was also learnt that Preye’s father, Mr. Austin Egbon, abandoned the Volvo 40L car over two years ago after he ran out of money to effect the repairs of the many faults that beset it.

It was gathered that Preye, who is an apprentice of Electrical Engineering, returned from the workshop with a scavenger at the wee hour of the day and they began to evaluate the monetary worth of the car. Preye, it was reported, had insisted on selling the car for N20, 000 but the scavenger was only willing to pay the sum of N 15,000.

As the haggling continued, Preye’s uncle, Mr. Enakaya, who also resides in the compound, saw the duo and decided to accost them to ascertain what they were up to.

On knowing what they wanted to do, Mr. Enakaya ordered the scavenger to leave the premises immediately. He was also said to have rained verbal abuses on Preye, accusing him of lacking clear vision and good plans for his life.

competitiveness.

Air Cdr. Jekada said the country’s educational system needs urgent attention to address the myriad of problems confronting the sector.

The team comprises of eleven participants drawn from the Nigerian Army, Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), Nigeria Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), Plateau and Adamawa State government, National Council of Women Society of Nigeria, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Defence.

NECO denies irregularity report From Yakubu Mustapha,Minna

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he National Examinations Council (NECO) has denied the report by a national daily alleging that the recently concluded 2015 National Common Entrance Examination (NCEE) was marred by irregularities in the country delaying the release of its result.

This was contained in a statement issued in Minna at the weekend by NECO Head of Information, Azeez Sanni.

“To put the record straight, the NCEE was conducted on Saturday 25th April, 2015 in 420 centres manned by supervisors and

invigilators across the 36 states of the federation including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja.’

“The examination was also monitored by the Permanent Secretary Mac John Nwaobiala who represented the Minister of Education, the Registrar/ Chief Executive of the National Examinations Council, Professor Monday Tommy Joshua and senior staff of both the Federal Ministry of Education (FME) and National Examinations Council.”

According to Sanni the results of the examination had since been released on Thursday 30th April, 2015 by the National Examinations Council to the Federal Ministry of

Education, Abuja.

He said that during and up until date, there had not been any reported case of irregularities from any of the teeming stakeholders in Nigeria’s education sector. adding that there has not been any such report from any of the NECO state officers and field officers who superintended over the conduct of the said examination in their respective states and examination centres.

Consequently, since the reintroduction of second screening test by the Federal Ministry of Education in 2014, its monitoring exercise had remained the exclusive prerogative of the Ministry.

“It is, therefore, curious how The Sun reporter got and analysed his records to conclude that the 2015 NCEE was marred by irregularities.”The report does not meet public expectation for balanced reporting as it is misleading, malicious and anchored to diminish the long-standing image of the Council, and its ethos for delivering examinations whose results are trusted worldwide for their credibility.”

The statement re-assures Nigerians that the NCEE was successively conducted without any incident or case of irregularity, urging members of the public to disregard the publication.

DELSUTH workers on 3-day warning strike over alleged infrastructural decay, marginalisation From Osakhare Erese, Asaba

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ealth workers in the Delta State University Teaching Hospital, (DELSUTH), Oghara, under the aegis of the Joint Health Sector Union (JOHESU), have embarked on three days warning strike to protest the alleged infrastructural decay in the institution and the marginalization of the union by management of DELSUTH. The Chairman of the union, Comrade James Ogheneovo

Ufuoma, who confirmed the industrial action in a telephone conversation with our correspondents, said that the warning strike became imperative as the management of DELSUTH has decided to pay deaf ear to their demand.

Comrade Ufuoma disclosed that the action will enable the union to press home its demands on issues relating to the deteriorating infrastructures, non implementation of workers’ promotion, payment of arrears, and the inappropriate management of

the contributory pension fund.

“We have embarked on the three day warning strike to protest management’s indifference to the decay of infrastructures.

For some time now, our oxygen generation and control plant has stopped working, electricity power generating set has been faulty for over a month now and the management h not shown concern about our welfare. When we say anything, they always tell us that they will look into it, yet nothing happens” he observed.

In retrospect, he stated

that, “When we went on strike last year, the Commissioner for Transportation, Hon. Ben Igbakpa, intervened and promised us that our demands would be met before September, 2014, but nothing was done to that effect.

When the Permanent Secretary; Dr. Enaduhobor Otobor, came yesterday (Thursday), he claimed that he was not informed about our demands” Ufuoma added.

‘We don’t care to know who is deceiving us. We will resume our services on Tuesday to give them three weeks ultimatum to meet

our demands, failure of which, we will embark on an indefinite strike.

That is what the constitution of the Labour Union states” the Union leader warned.

A source, who preferred anonymity; revealed that some of the workers displayed placards with inscriptions suggesting the immediate removal of the Chief Medical Director, Dr. Leslie Esimaje Akpriaye, who is said to have travelled out of town for some time now and could not be reached on his mobile telephone.

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PEOPLES DAILY, monday, may 11, 2015

Health Anaemia

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naemia is present when there is a decrease in the level of red blood cells (RBCs) haemoglobin (Hb) in the blood below the reference level for the age and sex of the individual.

In other words, it is a condition in which the number of red blood cells or their oxygen-carrying capacity is insufficient to meet physiologic needs, which vary by age, sex, altitude, smoking, and pregnancy status. A reduction in the plasma volume will lead to a spuriously high Hb - this is seen with dehydration and in the clinical condition of apparent polycythaemia. A raised plasma volume produces a spurious anaemia, even when combined with a small increase in red cell volume as occurs in pregnancy.

After a major bleed, anaemia may not be apparent for several days until the plasma volume returns to normal.

Iron deficiency is thought to be the most common cause of anaemia globally, although other conditions, such as folate, vitamin B12 and vitamin A deficiencies, chronic inflammation, parasitic infections, and inherited disorders can all cause anaemia.

In its severe form, it is associated with fatigue, weakness, dizziness and drowsiness. Pregnant women and children are particularly vulnerable.

There are three major types of anaemia base on cause: • That due to blood loss, • That due to decreased red blood cell production, and • That due to increased red blood cell breakdown.

Causes of Anaemia Increased destruction Anaemias of increased red blood cell destruction are generally classified as hemolytic anaemias.

• G l u c o s e - 6 - p h o s p h a t e dehydrogenase deficiency and glutathione synthetase deficiency, causing increased oxidative stress • Hereditary spherocytosis • Pyruvate kinase and hexokinase deficiencies, causing defect glycolysis • Hereditary elliptocytosis • Abetalipoproteinemia Sickle cell anaemia • H e m o g l o b i n o p a t h i e s causing unstable hemoglobins • Paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria • Warm autoimmune hemolytic anaemia Cold agglutinin hemolytic anaemia is primarily mediated by IgM. It can be idiopathic or result from an underlying condition.

• Rh disease, one of the causes of hemolytic disease of the newborn • Transfusion reaction to blood transfusions • Infections, including malaria • Heart surgery • Haemodialysis

Increase blood loss • Anaemia of prematurity from frequent blood sampling for laboratory testing, combined with insufficient RBC production • Trauma or surgery, causing acute blood loss • Gastrointestinal tract lesions, causing either acute bleeds (e.g. variceal lesions, peptic ulcers or chronic blood loss (e.g. angiodysplasia) • G y n e c o l o g i c disturbances, also generally causing chronic blood loss • From menstruation, mostly among young women or older women who have fibroids • Infection by intestinal nematodes feeding on blood, such as hookworms and the whipworm Trichuris trichiura.

Impaired Production • Sickle cell anaemia • Iron-deficiency anaemia • Vitamin deficiency eg Vit C, Vit B6 and Vit 12 • Bone marrow and stem cell problems eg Drug, Ca • Other health conditions • Anaemia of chronic inflammation • Thalassemias, causing deficient globin synthesis • Anaemia of renal failure Clinical Features Patients with anaemia may be asymptomatic. A slowly falling level of Hb allows for haemodynamic compensation and enhancement of the oxygencarrying capacity of the blood. A rise in 2,3-BPG causes a shift of the oxygen dissociation curve to the right, so that oxygen is more readily given up to the tissues.

Where blood loss is rapid, more severe symptoms will occur, particularly in elderly people.

Symptoms (all non-specific) • Fatigue • Headaches • Faintness (The above three symptoms are all very common in the general population.)

• Breathlessness • Angina • I n t e r m i t t e n t claudication • Palpitations.

Signs • Pallor • Tachycardia

Super Foods to Combat Anaemia

• Systolic flow murmur • Cardiac failure • Rarely papilloedema and retinal haemorrhages after an acute bleed (can be accompanied by blindness).

Specific signs of the different types of anaemia are; • koilonychia - spoonshaped nails seen in iron deficiency anaemia • Jaundice - found in haemolytic anaemia • Bone deformities - found in thalassaemia major • Leg ulcers - occur in association with sickle cell disease.

It must be emphasized that anaemia is not a diagnosis, and a cause must be found.

INVESTIGATIONS Peripheral blood A low haemoglobin should always be considered in relation to: • the white blood cell (WBC) count • the platelet count • the reticulocyte count (as this indicates marrow activity) • the blood film, as abnormal red cell morphology may indicate the diagnosis.

Where two populations of red cells are seen, the blood film is said to be dimorphic. This may, for example, be seen in patients with ‘double deficiencies’ (e.g. combined iron and folate deficiency in coeliac disease, or following treatment of anaemic patients with the appropriate haematinic).

Examination of the bone marrow is performed to further investigate abnormalities found in the peripheral blood. Aspiration provides a film which can be examined by microscopy for the morphology of the developing haemopoietic cells. The trephine provides a core of bone which is processed as a histological specimen and allows an overall view of the bone marrow architecture, cellularity and presence/absence of abnormal infiltrates.

The following are assessed: • cellularity of the marrow • type of erythropoiesis (e.g. normoblastic or megaloblastic)

Health Matters Dr. Longwap AbdulAziz Saleh

e-mail: longwapabdul@yahoo.com, Text: 08039537913 • cellularity of the various cell lines • infiltration of the marrow • iron stores.

Anaemia Treatment Anaemia treatment depends on the cause. That is largely dependent on your Doctor to decide.

• Iron deficiency anaemia.

This form of anaemia is treated with changes in your diet and iron supplements.

If the underlying cause of iron deficiency is loss of blood — other than from menstruation — the source of the bleeding must be located and stopped. This may involve surgery.

• Vitamin deficiency anaemias. Folic acid and vitamin C deficiency anaemias are treated with dietary supplements and increasing these nutrients in your diet. If your digestive system has trouble absorbing vitamin B-12 from the food you eat, you may receive vitamin B-12 injections.

• Anaemia of chronic disease. There’s no specific treatment for this type of anaemia. Doctors focus on treating the underlying disease.

If symptoms become severe, a blood transfusion or injections of synthetic erythropoietin, a hormone normally produced by your kidneys, may help stimulate red blood cell production and ease fatigue.

• Aplastic anaemia.

Treatment for this anaemia may include blood transfusions to boost levels of red blood cells.

You may need a bone marrow transplant if your bone marrow is diseased and can’t make healthy blood cells.

• Anaemias associated with bone marrow disease.

Treatment of these various diseases can include simple medication, chemotherapy or bone marrow transplantation.

• Hemolytic anaemias.

Managing hemolytic anaemias includes avoiding suspect medications, treating related infections and taking drugs that suppress your immune system, which may be attacking your red blood cells.

Depending on the severity of your anaemia, a blood transfusion or plasmapheresis may be necessary. Plasmapheresis is a type of blood-filtering procedure.

In certain cases, removal of the spleen can be helpful.

• Sickle cell anaemia.

Treatment for this anaemia may include the administration of oxygen, pain-relieving drugs, and oral and intravenous fluids to reduce pain and prevent complications. Doctors also may recommend blood transfusions, folic acid supplements and antibiotics.

A bone marrow transplant may be an effective treatment in some circumstances. A cancer drug called hydroxyurea (Droxia, Hydrea) also is used to treat sickle cell anaemia.

• Thalassemia.

This anaemia may be treated with blood transfusions, folic acid supplements, removal of the spleen (splenectomy), a bone marrow transplant or a another drug.

Prevention of Anaemia Choose a vitamin-rich diet Many types of anaemia can’t be prevented. However, you can help avoid iron deficiency anaemia and vitamin deficiency anaemias by choosing a diet that includes a variety of vitamins and nutrients, including: • Iron. Iron-rich foods include beef and other meats, beans, lentils, iron-fortified cereals, dark green leafy vegetables, and dried fruit.

• Folate. This nutrient, and its synthetic form folic acid, can be found in citrus fruits and juices, bananas, dark green leafy vegetables, legumes, and fortified breads, cereals and pasta.

• Vitamin B-12.

This vitamin is found naturally in meat and dairy products. It’s also added to some cereals and soy products, such as soy milk.

• Vitamin C. Foods containing vitamin C — such as citrus fruits, melons and berries — help increase iron absorption.

Consider genetic counseling if you have a family history of anaemia If you have a family history of an inherited anaemia, such as sickle cell anaemia or thalassemia, talk to your doctor and possibly a genetic counselor about your risk and what risks you may pass on to your children.

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Healthy Living

PEOPLES DAILY, monday, may 11, 2015

Happiness affects your well being too

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he feeling of happiness – whether you equate it with optimism, joy, well-being, personal achievement or all of the above – goes hand-inhand with healthier habits. People who are in good spirits tend to eat better, exercise more frequently and get better sleep than those who are not. This could be, in part, because leading a healthy lifestyle helps you achieve your goals, leading to happiness.

It could also be that such habits lead to better health, which in turn lends itself to a better mood and

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happiness. Beyond these rather common-sense associations, however, is intriguing research that suggests there’s something more about happiness that makes you healthy.

Beyond its tendency to occur alongside better eating, exercise, and other healthy habits, it appears a positive mental state may have a much more direct effect on your body.

Happiness may influence your immune function and more Positive thoughts and attitudes

are able to prompt changes in your body that strengthen your immune system, boost positive emotions, decrease pain and chronic disease, and provide stress relief. One study found, for instance, that happiness, optimism, life satisfaction, and other positive psychological attributes are associated with a lower risk of heart disease.

It’s even been scientifically shown that happiness can alter your genes! A team of researchers at UCLA showed that people with a deep sense of happiness and well-being had lower levels of

inflammatory gene expression and stronger antiviral and antibody responses. This falls into the realm of epigenetics—changing the way your genes function by turning them off and on.

It could be, however, that the type of happiness matters. In one study, participants answered questions about the frequency of certain emotional states, covering two different categories or types of happiness known to psychologists as: 1. Hedonic well-being (characterized by happiness gleaned

processed dairy products (farewell, sweet yoghurts) and fizzy drinks. Lack of warm meals is also to blame. When we consume too much dairy, meat and sugar, the level of prostaglandin F2 alpha – a hormone causing womb cramps - increases. And so does the pain.

endometriosis (overgrowth of uterus lining) or infections.

If we suffer from painful menstruations and notice stinging in vagina,

discharges in unusual colours (yellow, green) we should consult a doctor.

from pleasurable experiences, such as sex) 2. Eudaimonic well-being (originating with Aristotle, this form of happiness comes from activities that bring you a greater sense of purpose, life meaning, or selfactualization) Interestingly, while both are positive emotional states associated with happiness, the gene expressions they produced were not identical.

Those whose sense of happiness was rooted in the eudaimonic camp were found to have favorable geneexpression profiles, while hedonic well-being produced gene profiles similar to those seen in people experiencing stress due to adversity.

As reported by Scientific American: “One interpretation is that eudaimonic well-being benefits immune function directly. But [researcher] Cole prefers to explain it in terms of response to stress. If someone is driven purely by hollow consumption, he argues, all of their happiness depends on their personal circumstances. If they run into adversity, they may become very stressed.

But if they care about things beyond themselves — community, politics, art — then everyday stresses will perhaps be of less concern.

Eudaimonia, in other words, may help to buffer our sense of threat or uncertainty, potentially improving our health.”

Perhaps people who are happy are less impacted by everyday stressors, and this ability to deflect stress is responsible for many of the gains to their health. Past research has also similarly found that positive emotions –including being happy, lively, and calm -- appear to play a role in immune function. One study found that when happy people are exposed to cold and flu viruses, they’re less likely to get sick and, if they do, exhibit fewer symptoms.

The association held true regardless of the participants’ levels of self-esteem, purpose, extraversion, age, education, body mass, or pre-study immunity to the virus, leading the lead researcher to say: “We need to take more seriously the possibility that positive emotional style is a major player in disease risk.” mercola.com

Causes of menstrual pain

ome women aren’t affected by it. Unfortunately, over 60% of us regularly suffer from acute menstrual pain. It can be felt in lower back, abdomen or as womb cramps. It can appear a few days before or/ and during menstruation.

Good news is: menstruation doesn’t have to be painful. If this is your problem – you can do much more than buy a new generation of painkillers. You can change it;first you need to understand where the pain comes from Causes of menstrual pain: • Bad diet: If we eat too much sugar, white flour, highly processed food, our susceptibility to menstrual pain increases.

The main culprits are highly

• Stressful, hectic lifestyle: The level of prostaglandin F2 alpha increases also due to stress.

If we eat badly and have a hectic, stressful lifestyle we are very likely to suffer from menstrual pain.

• Illnesses: The pain during menstruation can be caused by illnesses, such us cystomyoma,

• Age and anatomy: Some women “naturally” have a narrow cervix, which can make flowing blood from the womb more difficult. The womb must contract harder to push the blood out, which can be painful. Many women find out that after giving birth their cervix gets looser and the blood can flow freely and painlessly.

• Negative attitude towards the body and menstruation: As research carried out by independent American scientist’s shows, as well as the experience of many

women all over the world, a negative attitude towards the body and especially menstruation is one of the main causes of pain.

In women who changed their attitude and stopped treating menstruation as a drag and a nuisance the pain lessened or even completely disappeared.

• Straining our bodies: During the first two days of menstruation the womb sheds its inner lining, like a snake. The process requires effort and concentration, the womb is fragile and sensitive.

Physical strain, hard work, especially during these first two days leads to menstrual pain. miesiaczka.com

PAGE 31

PEOPLES DAILY, monday, may 11, 2015

(R-L) FCT Minister, Senator Bala Mohammed (middle), and the Minister of State, FCT, Oloye Olajumoke Akinjide, exchanging pleasantries with the Chairman, Senate Committee on FCT, Senator Smart Adeyemi (left), during the recentinspection of rail and road projects, in Abuja.

Mass transit: Jonathan happy with FCTA’s handling of rail, road projects

By Stanley Onyekwere

P

resident Goodluck Jonathan has commended the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) under the stewardship of Senator Bala Mohammed, for the level of completion of ongoing multi-billion-naira Abuja rail, Umaru Musa Yar’Adua (Airport Road Lot II) and Murtala Mohammed (Kubwa Road) Expresswaysrespectively, aimed at improving traffic flow in and around the Territory.

According to the President, who gave the commendation when he inspected the three multibillion-naira projects in the nation’s

capital, with the level of work done, the Bala-led FCTA have change the face of the nation’s capital.

This is coming barely two weeks to the formal handing over to the President- Elect, General Muhammadu Buhari, (rtd), who defeated President Jonathan in the just concluded 2015 general elections.

However, Jonathan in what seemed as a final inspection tour of major projects in FCT, not only expressed satisfaction withlevel of progress, but with the quality workdone so far on what he described as ‘life transforming’ projects initiated by his administration.

Specifically, commenting on level of progress of the Abuja

rail, the President said: ““We are quite appreciative of the level of cooperation. The CCECC has been doing very well; and of course, the Ministry of the Federal Capital Territory.

“They are doing wonderfully well. I’m quite impressed. I have wanted to come and inspect the project for a very long time but for challenges in terms of my commitments.

“So far, we are quite pleased with the briefing given to us. We are very hopeful that Nigerians, especially those in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) will enjoy this rail system with immediate effect.

“Looking at the stock piles of

typical materials, it gives us hope.

We have always insisted that without a functional rail system in any nation, you cannot talk about mass transit.”

Continuing, he noted: “Mass transit cannot be built on taxis, small buses and even the big buses are too expensive, they are for short runs.

“But for real effective mass transit where commuters are meant to pay very low rate, then of course the rail system is key. That is why the government has plans for city rails like this and Inter-city rail system.

“Although, we are leaving on May 29, but the incoming government will definitely continue, because this is a noble project to Nigerians, especially residents of the FCT. “I believe that by the time they

Hajj: Board begins refund of feeding, transport fare to FCT pilgrims

T

he Federal Capital Territory Muslim Pilgrims’ Welfare Board (FCT-MPWB), has revealed that it had started refunding money meant for feeding and transportation of pilgrims who performed Hajj in 2012 and 2013 through its board.

Notice of the refund was contained in a statement signed by the Director of Media of the board, Alhaji Muhammed Lawal, in Abuja.

The statement quoted Lawal as explaining that the refund

was because of poor feeding and transportation services given to pilgrims in the holy land.

According to him, a total of 3,152 pilgrims who participated in the 2012 Hajj are to receive N1,785 each for their feeding and transportation respectively.

He said a total of 3,078 pilgrims who performed the 2013 Hajj were to receive N3,000 each as refund for feeding as well as transport fares during the exercise.

He, therefore, advised the

affected pilgrims to forward their applications for the refund and to include their statement of bank details to the director of the board, as no cash payment would be entertained without that.

Pilgrims were also expected to attach evidence of performing the Hajj in the year mentioned, he stated.

He noted that other requirements include receipt of payment of Hajj fee, photocopy of visa page in their various passports and pilgrims’ identity cards.

According to him, the application

for the refund could be submitted to any official of the board in the six area councils of the FCT or at the board’s Head Office.

He also advised pilgrims who had no bank accounts to forward a letter authorising the board to pay the money into third party account which the detail shall be provided by the beneficiary.

He said the board had already received N14, 878,267.45 from National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) for the refund. (NAN)

finish this main lot 1 and 2, the other ones may come on stream, it may not be in three or five years’ time, but I am sure that it would come on stream, when we begin to enjoy this and commuters now know the cost of implications and the savings they will make.”

On his part, Mohammed informed the President that the both Kubwa and Airport Road expressways (already in use) are 98 percent completed, saying these have contributed to beautification of the city, especially at night when visitors from other countries are arriving into the country.

The minister noted that the roads have reduced traffic from city center, while the rail project is expected to convey residents from Idu to Kubwa satellite towns, upon completion by December 2015.

Mohammed, however pleaded with the President, to assist the administration, in facilitating the outstanding paymentsto the contractors handling the projects.

Peoples Daily reports that the president, who kicked off at Lugbe Interchange along the Umaru Musa Yar’Adua Expressway, took a ride in the ongoing Abuja rail, beforerounding off with the inspection of the Murtala Mohammed (Kubwa Road) Expressway, with 12 flyovers and six bridges.

PAGE 32

Photo Splash

PEOPLES DAILY, monday, may 11, 2015

Young men hawking, recently at Jabi Motor Park, in Abuja.

Wheel barrow pushers on the move along Zuba Road, recently in Abuja.

A young man hawking along Utako Market, on Thursday in Abuja.

A man hawking beverages at Jabi, in Abuja.

A man hawking clothes at Utako Market, in Abuja.

Photos: Mahmud Isa

PAGE 33

PEOPLES DAILY, monday, may 11, 2015

Metro

Some Abuja indigenes from Kpaduma community protesting over alleged mistreatment by FCTA, in Asokoro District.

Abuja indigenes want Buhari to swap resettlement policy with integration

By Stanley Onyekwere

S

ome indigenes of Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), are calling on the incoming administration of General Muhammad Buhari, to set up a better integration plan for them, to replace the current resettlement policy of the FCT Administration, which has almost turned them to strangers in their ancestral homes.

Also, they urged the incoming administration to probe the activities of the FCT Administration under the stewardship of Senator Bala Mohammed, especially its land management system.

The indigenes, mainly from communities within Kpaduma area of the FCT, made this known, when they staged a peaceful demonstration, to let out their grievances over alleged maltreatment by the FCT Administration under the stewardship of Senator Bala Mohammed.

Peoples Daily recalls that this is

coming just few days to the end of President Goodluck Jonathan-led government.

According to the leader of the indigenous people, BalaIyah, who led the protest last week, where they barricaded major roads in Asokoro district, said that the indigenes decided to embark on the demonstration, because they have been maltreated and subjected to endless fears and torment by the FCTA. Iyah, an immediate past councilor, who represented Garki ward in Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC), said that they have been living in constant fears, as they wake up every morning to find bacons on their plots of land, with strangers claiming ownership of their houses.

He maintained that with all the indigenous people of the FCT have been experiencing in the hands of the FCTA, they are completely kicking against its resettlement policy in preference to formulation of a better integration plan for them.

““Enough is enough. The incoming administration should set up committee to investigate how the minister forcefully claimed plots of land from indigenes and sold to his cronies. If any lapses are found in the land allocation method, then such allocation should be revoked.

“Since the inception of this present administration, we have been living in constant fears in the FCT. Because, the Minister has not done anything positive for us, rather he has been forcefully collecting our plots of land and allocating them to himself, his families and friends from Bauchi State.

“He has completely acquired all our farmland in the FCT, without compensation. As it is known, our people are mainly farmers, but because of the way the minister has collected our land, our people no longer know what to do to make ends meet, since there are no more plots of land for us to farm on.

“We are also calling on the present Bala-led administration to adequately compensate indigenes

for their farm produces that were destroyed when their farmlands were forcefully taken from them,” he emphasized.

He however, noted that since they (FCTA) do not believe in peaceful ways of settling issues, his people decided to take their fears and worries to the law court, in order to find a lasting solution to their plights.

According to him: “Despite that we are still in court, our desire is still being denied by the FCTA, so we have decided to stage this peaceful protest, just to pass a vote of “No Confidence” on the FCT Minister, Senator Bala Mohammed, for not respecting the court order restraining further demolition of houses in our communities and continuous harassment from purported allottees “The Minister set up a ministerial committee for us to dialogue on how to go about the settlement of issues between our communities and the FCTA. We respected that order, we are presently on the settlement state

and we have arrived at what we want. But, despite it was the Minister that set up the committee, he has failed to comply.

“As I am talking to you, people from the FCTA and their allottees are still disturbing us, they are still threatening our lives.”

He insisted that the FCT minister had promised them that pending the determination of their case in court, there will be no further demolition in their communities, but FCTA officials are still disturbing their peace with endless threat of demolition in the area.

“I must confess that we no longer have confidence in government of Sen. Bala Mohammed. We do not trust his methods of allocating land to people in the FCT. “There is no sincerity in what he is doing to us as indigenes, because all his policies are anti-indigenes, his policies do not favour us at all.

We are treated like strangers in our own land by this administration,” he stressed.

Dobi promises to improve learning in Abuja South

H

ouse of Representativeselect (APC-Abuja South), Alhaji Zakari Augulu-Dobi, has pledged commitment towards improving the education sector, by giving priority to teachers’ welfare, for the benefit of the students and pupils in his constituency.

Augulu-Dobi, former Chairman of Gwagwalada Area Council, made the pledge when he received school head-teachers from the constituency who paid him a courtesy visit in Dobi.

He charged the teachers to remain united and committed for the benefit of the students

and pupils in the area.

“We will increase our commitment and support to the education sector and the entire academic community in order to positively change the sector. ``Learning cannot be conducive without unity. Unity must start from the teachers, so

let us keep aside our differences for the benefit of the students’’, he said.

Earlier, Hajiya Safiya Tukura, Headmistress, Dobi Primary School, who spoke on behalf of the head teachers, congratulated Angulu-Dobi for his victory and urged him to

consider teachers’ welfare as paramount. ``We lack teachers and school infrastructure, among others. So, our case should be tabled before the National Assembly and we believe we will see changes’’, Tukura said.

(NAN)

PAGE 34

PEOPLES DAILY, monday, may 11, 2015

Money Sense Energy-efficient home improvements that save money A

s energy costs rise, you might be looking for ways to be more energyefficient without breaking the bank. Here are eight moneysmart moves to consider when making home renovations.

Anything “low flow

In addition to saving water, low-flow fixtures will save you more than a dime or two.

Inexpensive and easily installed, low-flow fixtures can reduce your home water consumption by as much as 50 percent and can save you up to N22,475 per year. Low-flow showerheads cost about N3100.

A tank-less water heater

Tank-less water heaters allow users to shave 20 percent off their water bill. In addition to lasting five to 10 years longer than tank heaters, tank-less heaters never run out of hot water.

Ceiling fans A ceiling fan will help keep your home at a comfortable temperature while reducing your energy bill by about N2, 325 per year, according to Energy Star. Ceiling fans are priced at about N7750

Compact fluorescent light bulbs Fluorescent bulbs last four to 10 times longer than regular light bulbs. While they are more expensive initially, you will save about N930 per year on energy bills.

Weather stripping You might be surprised to find how much money you could save by patching up that draft in your kitchen or bedroom.

In homes that haven’t been weather stripped, air leaks account for 30 to 40 percent of cooling loss. Weather stripping materials start for as little as N775.

Costs to cut in retirement: Eliminate these unnecessary expenses and live comfortably on a fixed income

I

f you don’t have a traditional pension or large nest egg, it’s likely that you will need to closely monitor your spending in retirement. “(Retirees) don’t just sit around eating bonbons and living off pension plans,” says Bart Astor, author of “AARP Roadmap for the Rest of Your Life: Smart Choices about Money, Health, Work, Lifestyle, and Pursuing Your Dreams.”

“At 50 or 60 years old, you still have to be thinking longterm. You will be without a major career for 30, 40 or even 50 years, which is probably longer than you actually worked before. Look at what you can afford to do, and balance it with what is important to you.”

One of the simplest things you can do to make sure you stay financially viable during retirement is pay attention to your spending. “It is important to understand exactly where your money is going and what you are getting for it,” says Keith Green, President of The American Retirement Initiative. “There are

a lot of ways to cut spending on things you just don’t need.”

Whether you are in the midst of retirement or you are just planning ahead, consider cutting back in the following areas to prevent unnecessary expenditures and financial worries down the road: Adjusting to lower income:As you move into retirement, you will likely have to adjust to living on a lower income. To avoid getting into trouble later, make sure you are only buying what you can afford. “It’s generally a mistake to carry a balance on a charge card,” Green says. “The overarching thought here is that during their retirement years, folks are more likely to be living on a fixed income, and that may affect the repayment process later on.”

Technology:Don’t sign up and pay for anything you aren’t going to use. “How many people watch 50 percent, or even 30 percent, of the things they pay for with cable?”

Green says. Paying for cable can become a major financial drain

over time. Consider slimming down on elaborate packages or turning to cheaper alternatives.

“Today, you can get the content from other outlets.

Additionally, be realistic about your needs and wants. If you need a cellphone just for making an occasional phone call, don’t purchase the latest smartphone with an unlimited data package.

“You don’t need to be paying for fancy phones with features or minutes you don’t use,” Green says.

Insurance:The older you get, the less important it becomes to focus your attention and money on life insurance plans.

“In the event of your death, (life insurance pays) your dependents or those closest to you,” Green says. “But when you are retired, typically the folks who were dependent on you before aren’t anymore. Also, theoretically, you’ve had time to build up other assets so the need isn’t there.”

That saidyou shouldn’t always cancel your life insurance policy because many of them have viable

cash return options, and could help a surviving spouse or have estate planning benefits.

Travel:Travel tends to increase during the early years of retirement and taper off later on, Heichel says. If you know you are going to travel more

during retirement, try to factor those costs into your retirement saving ahead of time. However, regardless of prior planning, keep costs low by adjusting your travel itinerary. Shop around for the cheapest airline seats and discounted hotel rooms.

Page 35

PEOPLES DAILY, monday, may 11, 2015

International international_peoplesdailyng@yahoo.com

ANALYSIS

H

e’s a charmer. He’s a slacker. He’s bright. He’s a victim of culture shock, a broken family and a domineering older brother. He’s a murderer. He’s a terrorist.

That’s the picture presented in recent days of Dzhokhar Tsarnaev as his defense lawyers neared the end of their effort to save their client’s life. As early as Monday, the defense may rest their case and put their faith in the 12-person jury, which will decide whether he should die or live.

Tsarnaev, 21, was convicted last month of 30 terrorism and other related charges for his role in the April 2013 Boston Marathon bombing. U.S. law requires that the jury must return a unanimous decision in order to execute a person, and it is that chance – that one juror will decide against the death penalty – where Tsarnaev’s lawyers are placing their hopes.

Three people died in the attack, including an 8-year-old boy, and more than 260 were wounded.

Tsarnaev and his older brother, Tamerlan, killed a police officer several days later just prior to a car chase and shootout that left Tamerlan dead.

Penalty Phase The two-part trial entered the “penalty” phase April 21, as prosecutors sought to paint Tsarnaev as a willing accomplice in the worst terrorist attack on U.S. soil since Sept. 11, 2001.

Defense lawyers portrayed their client as a malleable participant, under the sway of Tamerlan, who they said was the mastermind and leader.

“The whole goal of the defense is … to make the jury see the defendant as a vulnerable human being,” said Robert Dunham, executive director of the Washington-based Death Penalty Information Center.

“The jury doesn’t have to like him,” he said. “The jury doesn’t have to want to have him over to their house for dinner. They just have to decide that putting him away in a dark hole for the rest of his life is an acceptable punishment.”

As with the previous phase, the courtroom has been whipsawed by testimony, by turns infuriating, wrenching, maddening or saddening.

Prosecutors stunned spectators and jurors in their opening arguments for the death penalty by juxtaposing photographs: of the youngest victim, 8-year-old Martin Richard, and that of Tsarnaev, making an obscene gesture to a video camera in the prison cell where he’s being held.

“This is Dzhokhar Tsarnaev, unconcerned, unrepentant and unchanged,” federal prosecutor Nadine Pellegrini told jurors.

Courtroom Tears On Monday, less than two weeks later, the courtroom filled with sobbing, when Tsarnaev’s aunt, Patimat Suleimanova, flown from Russia, wracked with tears, tried to speak about her nephew whom she hadn’t seen in more than a decade.

During the weeks that the trial has been ongoing, Tsarnaev, who spent his childhood shuttling

Boston marathon bomber’s life Hangs in the balance

Dzhokhar Tsarnaev is pictured in this handout photo presented as evidence by the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Boston, Massachusetts on March 23, 2015. Tsarnaev was heavily influenced by al Qaeda literature and lectures, some of which was found on his laptop. between Russia and Kyrgyzstan and then his formative years in a threebedroom, third-floor apartment in Cambridge, Massachusetts, has been largely impassive and at times appearing bored.

On Monday, after listening to his aunt, he himself broke down for the first time, rubbing his eyes with his fists and openly weeping.

Not long after, as he was being led from the courtroom during a break, he blew a kiss to a cousin who was in attendance.

More than 40 witnesses appeared during the penalty phase, including some of Tsarnaev’s former school teachers and college friends, some crying openly.

During her appeareance in court on April 29, one former teacher, Becki Norris, smiled at Tsarnaev, and he returned the smile.

Later, she posted a photograph on Facebook of 12-year-old Tsarnaev holding her newborn daughter.

“When you care deeply for someone, that doesn’t stop even if they do unfathomably horrible things. We humans are really good

at holding two irreconcilable ideas in our psyches at the same time.

Yes, he did the unforgivable. And yes, I still love him. And – this one is hard to fathom, I know – he still needs love,” Norris wrote on her Facebook page.

Death penalty decision The decision by the Obama administration to seek the death penalty for Tsarnaev has been controversial. Massachusetts state law does not allow for capital punishment, but Tsarnaev is being tried in federal court.

Support for the death penalty in the state has never been strong, and public opinion polls taken by Boston-area media in the months prior to and during the trial have shown dwindling enthusiasm.

On the eve of the final phase, the Boston Globe published a front-page letter from Martin Richard’s family, in which they called for sentencing Tsarnaev to life in prison.

“As long as the defendant is in the spotlight, we have no choice but to live a story told on his terms, not ours,” the family wrote. “The

“

minute the defendant fades from our newspapers and TV screens is the minute we begin the process of rebuilding our lives and our family.”

At the beginning of Tsarnaev’s trial, his defense, led by renowned lawyer Judy Clarke, conceded his guilt, in what appeared to be a strategy focused more on saving his life.

“This is the theory: that no person is only the worse thing they’ve done in their life,” said Quin Denvir, a former federal defender who worked with Clarke in gaining a life prison sentence for Theodore Kaczynski, the “Unabomber,” in a federal trial in 1998.

“It’s all part of letting the jury seeing the person as a human being, not just the perpetrator of a crime, but as a fully developed human being, with strengths and weaknesses,” Denvir said.

In addition to calling relatives and experts on Chechnya’s tortured history, lawyers have called witnesses to argue that the prison where Tsarnaev would live out the rest of his life – the

al, his defense, led by renowned lawyer Judy Clarke, conceded his guilt, in what appeared to be a strategy focused more on saving his life.

U.S. Penitentiary Administrative Maximum Facility in Colorado – would be harsh and unforgiving.

It is “a mechanism to cut off an inmate’s communications with the outside world,” defense witness Mark Bezy testified on Wednesday.

Tsarnaev’s parents, Anzor and Zubeidat, were not called to testify. Both now live in Dagestan, the Russian region bordering Chechnya, and have not returned the United States since just after Tsarnaev’s initial court appearance in 2013.

Russian Hunger For News With the Tsarnaev family’s ties to Russia and the North Caucasus, there’s been intense interest in the trial for many Russians, according to Alexei Venediktov, the editor-inchief of Ekho Moskvy, an influential, independent radio station and Web site in Moscow.

The proceedings, however, have received virtually no coverage in the Russian news media, nearly all of which is state-controlled.

Venediktov told VOA that’s probably because of growing concern from the Kremlin about stability in the long-troubled North Caucasus.

“Th i s process carri es a n unpleasant association, I think, for the leadership, in particular, of the Russian Federation, and therefore, I think, it’s possible there’s been embargo on news,” he said.

He also said support is growing in Russia to bring back the death penalty, and were the Boston jury to sentence him to death, it would have a significant impact on the Russian debate.

“I think the jury’s verdict will be actively discussed in Russia if it ends up being the death penalty,” he said.

VOA

PEOPLES DAILY, monday, may 11, 2015

Page 36

International South Africa opposition elects Maimane first black leader

EU officials mull military action to stop migrants

D

efence ministers from five European Union countries are meeting for talks on a military campaign to stop human trafficking and reinforce the region’s defences against the flow of migrants from North Africa.

Officials from France, Germany, Poland, Italy and Spain on Sunday will use events commemorating the 70th anniversary of the liberation of Lorient, western France, to discuss how to battle the influx of migrants to Europe, which has already cost thousands of lives.

The ministers are also expected to discuss Europe’s common defence strategy, including “possible options for European [military] action” after some of the most deadly migrant shipwrecks ever seen in the Mediterranean this year, according to the French defence ministry.

The meeting comes as key European governments said they would resist a separate EU plan to force the bloc’s 28 member states to share the burden of hosting refugees.

More than 5,000 refugees have died over the past 18 months as boats operated by smugglers have capsized off Libya’s coast, causing alarm among European leaders seeking to halt the flow.

Federica Mogherini, EU foreign policy chief, is set to present a plan to the UN Security Council on Monday that would see the UN lead military operations against the people smugglers.

The most controversial option under discussion would set out to destroy the boats used by the traffickers before they were loaded with migrants and sent out on the perilous journey to European shores.

Most set sail from Libya, where the breakdown of government since the overthrow of Muammar Gaddafi has allowed people traffickers to operate with impunity.

But critics say military action in Libyan waters or to stop a vessel flying the country’s flag without an international mandate would break international law.

Ban Ki-moon, UN secretarygeneral, has also criticised the plan, saying that destroying boats could affect the livelihoods of Libyan fishermen, who may be forced into dealings with the smugglers to make ends meet.

For now, Brussels is concentrating on stopping unflagged boats and sharing intelligence on traffickers, according to EU sources. That could include information gathered from radar, aerial surveillance and wiretaps.

The aim is “to identify the points of departure, the security situation on the ground” and establish a multinational team of planning officers, a military source in Paris told the AFP news agency.

S

outh Africa’s main opposition party, the Democratic Alliance (DA), has elected its first black leader, a move the party hopes will widen its appeal.

Mmusi Maimane, 34, was clear favourite to succeed outgoing leader Helen Zille.

Mr Maimane became party spokesman in 2011, regularly locking horns with the South African President, Jacob Zuma.

The DA won its best-ever share of the vote in the 2014

elections, but has struggled with perceptions it primarily represents white South Africans.

Mr Maimane faced party chairman Wilmot James for the job, and was elected at a party conference in Port Elizabeth.

In his victory speech, he called on the party to unite.

“We are democrats guided by our values. It is our values that unite us and I want to tell you today, it is our values that will lead us to victory.”

Mr Maimane’s predecessor,

Helen Zille, made no secret of her belief that the party would never threaten the ANC’s enduring grip on power if it could not finally shake off the accusation that it is a “white” party, representing the interests of those who have benefited from decades of racial apartheid.

To that end Ms Zille had tried to parachute in a prominent figure from the country’s liberation struggle, Mamphele Ramphele, as the party’s new leader before

Mr Maimane was joined on stage by his wife Natalie as he received a standing ovation

A

n Egyptian court has sentenced former President Hosni Mubarak and his two sons to three years in prison each on corruption charges, in a retrial that could brand Mubarak as a convicted criminal four years after being driven from office.

Mubarak, an autocrat who ruled Egypt for 30 years, and sons Gamal and Alaa have already spent at least three years in prison on other charges. It was not clear Saturday whether the 87-yearold former president, ousted in a 2011 uprising, would spend spend further time in jail.

The case was a retrial accusing the Mubaraks of embezzling millions of dollars earmarked for the renovation of presidential palaces. Prosecutors said the money was instead used to upgrade Mubarak’s private properties.

A court earlier dropped murder charges against Mubarak linked to an alleged 2011 conspiracy to kill protesters in Cairo’s Tahir Square at the height of Arab Spring protests that rocked North Africa and parts of the Middle East.

Prosecutors have appealed that acquittal, and an appeals court is expected to rule within weeks.

the last election. That plan collapsed in acrimony almost immediately.

Critics will now say that Mr Maimane’s speedy ascent to the top job is another “parachute” job - that the 34-year-old is too young and inexperienced to deserve the position, and that his swift elevation smacks of racial tokenism.

And yet, anyone watching the crowds at the conference will know that the claim that it is remains a “white” party is increasingly at odds with the facts.

His first test will be taking on the ANC at next year’s local elections. The party has governed South Africa since the end of apartheid.

“No party has a divine right to rule this country,” said Mr Maimane in his speech.

He will also have to fend off a challenge from the hard-left Economic Freedom Fighters party, which threatens the DA’s position as South Africa’s main opposition party.

Ms Zille unexpectedly announced she would step down last month after increasing the share of the DA’s vote in the 2014 poll.

She told the Citizen newspaper she was “relieved” to no longer be leader, but would continue to campaign for the party.

Egypt’s Mubarak, 2 sons, draw prison sentences in retrial

Hosni Mubarak waved to supporters in the courtroom

PEOPLES DAILY, monday, may 11, 2015

Page 37

International

500 Rohingya boat people land in Indonesia

Ethnic Rohingya women and children whose boats were washed ashore on Sumatra Island board a military truck to be taken to a temporary shelter in Seunuddon, Aceh province

B

oats carrying nearly 500 members of Myanmar’s long-persecuted Rohingya Muslim minority have reached shore in western Indonesia.

The men, women and children landed Sunday in north Aceh province, rescuers said.

Myanmar, a majority Buddhist country, does not recognize the existence of the Rohingya ethnicity.

Government officials, and many locals, instead view Rohingya as illegal migrants from Bangladesh and refer to them as “Bengalis.”

The mostly Muslim Rohingya are denied citizenship and other basic rights in Myanmar and have been the victims of a wave of violence by extremist Buddhist mobs in recent years.

Darsa, an disaster management agency official who like many Indonesians goes by one name, told the French news agency AFP the group had arrived near a beach in north Aceh district early Sunday and were told to swim to shore.

Darsa said there were 83

women and 41 children on board.

One of the women was pregnant and some of the children were aged under 10.

Lack of food, water Chris Lewa, director of the Arakan Project, which has monitored the movements of Rohingya for more than a decade, told The Associated Press some of the Rohingya were apparently weak due to lack of food and water.

Though their first stop has in the past been Thailand, where the Rohingya waited in jungle camps while brokers collected hefty “ransoms” from family members before allowing them to continue their journeys onward, tactics have changed in recent months.

They are now being held on boats at sea, Lewa told AP, estimating that 7,000 to 8,000 Rohingya and Bangladeshi migrants are currently parked in the Malacca Straits, unable to disembark because of crackdowns on trafficking networks in Thailand and Malaysia, their primary

destination.

Sectarian unrest killed up to 280 people and displaced 140,000 others in June 2012. Since then, tens of thousands of Rohingya have been forced to stay in filthy, overcrowded, prisonlike camps in western Rakhine state.

The U.N. General Assembly late last year passed a resolution urging the group to be granted full citizenship, equal rights, freedom of movement, and allowed to selfidentify as Rohingya.

U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon urged the government of Myanmar to address the citizenship status of Rohingya Muslims ahead of elections planned for later this year.

Ban told regional officials at a meeting on Myanmar last month at the United Nations that the ongoing communal tensions in the country’s western Rakhine state could be “seriously destabilizing.”

Ban said, “There are already troubling signs of ethnic and religious differences being exploited in the run-up to the

elections,” and said the reform process could be jeopardized if the underlying causes of tensions are not addressed.

Citizenship rejected The Myanmar government has rejected the demands for citizenship, but has expressed a willingness to consider citizenship for those who will identify as Bengali.

Burma’s 1982 citizenship law said members of any officially recognized minority must be able to prove their ancestors lived in Burma before the British invaded Rakhine in 1823.

The British occupation of Rakhine prompted a large migration of Muslims into the area from neighboring Chittagong, then part of British-ruled India and now located in modern-day Bangladesh.

Many of Burma’s hundreds of thousands of Rohingya Muslims said their ancestors have lived in Burma for generations. But the impoverished minority group lacks the documentation to prove it.

Yemen rebels accept Saudi cease-fire plan

S

hi’ite Houthi rebel fighters in Yemen said they have accepted a fiveday humanitarian cease-fire proposal from Saudi Arabia, set to begin Tuesday.

Sunday’s announcement came just hours after warplanes from the Saudi-led coalition bombed the residence of former President Ali Abdullah Saleh in the capital, Sana’a. Saleh was not believed to have been home at the time, and later appeared

on television standing in front of the rubble.

Last week, the United States and Saudi Arabia announced plans for the cease-fire in Yemen, where the Saudi-led coalition is waging an air campaign against the Houthis, a northern Yemeni militia that overran parts of the country in recent months.

Aid agencies report Saudi bombings and Houthi fighting have killed hundreds of civilians since March.

The conflict has also left the country in need of basic supplies.

The United Nations World Food Program said a ship it chartered has docked in Yemen, carrying fuel needed to extend humanitarian relief throughout the embattled country.

US reaction U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry had urged Houthi supporters to encourage the rebels to accept the pause.

Kerry said the terms of the

cease-fire are straightforward.

“Do not shoot. Do not move around and start to reposition and take advantage of this,” Kerry said. “This is a humanitarian pause and they should treat it accordingly.”

On Saturday, Saudi-led coalition warplanes pummeled the northwestern Yemeni province of Saada and hit the capital’s international airport on the 45th day of fighting against the Houthi rebels.

Asia & Middle East

In Iraq, dozens escape in deadly prison break A

t least three dozen people were killed and 40 inmates escaped in a prison break north of the Iraqi capital, Baghdad, officials said Saturday.

Iraq’s Interior Ministry said six police officers and 30 prisoners were killed in the riot at the Khalis prison. But other officials put the death toll much higher, reporting 12 policemen and at least 50 inmates killed.

Officials said a fight broke out among the inmates, and when guards came to intervene, the prisoners overpowered them and took their weapons.

Islamic State militants claimed responsibility for the prison break and gave their own version of events in a statement posted on jihadist websites. The group said it set off multiple explosions outside the prison in a coordinated operation with inmates on the inside. Some 30 IS members were among those who escaped, according to the statement.

Iraqi officials said some of the escapees had been jailed on terrorism charges.

Jailbreaks are common in Iraq, which has spent the past year fighting an insurgency by Islamic State militants.

Also Saturday, a car bomb in Baghdad killed at least seven people and wounded at least 14 others, according to police and other sources. News reports indicated the attack targeted Shi’ite pilgrims.

The French news agency AFP said the Islamic State group claimed responsibility for the car bombing.

In other news, the U.S.-led coalition that’s fighting Islamic State militants said it had conducted 15 airstrikes in Syria and 13 in Iraq since Friday. A statement said the airstrikes had hit 10 IS tactical units and had destroyed nine fighting positions near al-Hasakah in Syria, and had targeted sites in Iraq near Baiji, Fallujah, Tal Afar, Sinjar, Mosul and al-Assad.

Page 38

International Pope Francis inspires Cuba’s Raul Castro towards church

Mr Castro stopped in Rome to meet the Pope on his way back from Moscow

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uban President Raul Castro has said he was so impressed by a Vatican audience with Pope Francis that he might return to the faith he was born into.

Mr Castro praised the pontiff’s

wisdom, adding: “I will resume praying and turn to the Church again if the Pope continues in this vein.”

He thanked the Pope for brokering a rapprochement between Cuba and the US.

The communist leader had stopped at the Vatican after attending Russia’s World War Two Victory Day in Moscow.

The Catholic Church has maintained ties with Havana since the 1959 revolution.

PEOPLES DAILY, monday, may 11, 2015

The Pope will visit Cuba on his way to the US in September.

For Pope Francis, the restoration of relations between the US and Cuba - agreed during secret talks at the Vatican has been a major diplomatic achievement, says the BBC’s David Willey in Rome.

The US had imposed a trade embargo after Cuba’s revolution, which it began to lift late last year.

After the 50-minute private audience on Sunday, Mr Castro told reporters: “The pontiff is a Jesuit, and I, in some way, am too.

I studied at Jesuit schools.”

After suggesting he might turn again to the Church, he added: “I mean what I say.”

Both Mr Castro and his brother, revolutionary leader Fidel Castro, were baptised as Roman Catholics, but most Church activities were suppressed after the revolution.

Francis will be the third Pope to travel to Cuba, following visits there by John Paul II in 1998 and Benedict XVI in 2012.

Macedonia blames Kosovans for deadly Kumanovo clashes

M

acedonia says five Kosovans led the armed group which was involved in clashes with security forces in the northern town of Kumanovo.

Eight officers were killed and 37 injured, as well as 14 gunmen, Interior ministry spokesman Ivo Kotevski said.

Those named were members of the now dismantled Kosovo Liberation Army.

Mr Kotevski said the threat in Kumanovo, near the SerbianKosovan border, had been “eliminated” and a large amount of weapons seized.

Last month, about 40 ethic Albanians from Kosovo briefly took over a Macedonian police station in the village of Gosince near the

border, demanding the creation of an Albanian state in Macedonia.

In 2001, rebels demanding greater rights for the ethnic Albanian minority launched an uprising against the government, and tensions have continued despite a peace deal.

About a quarter of Macedonia’s two million population are ethnic Albanians.

Sami Ukshini, Beg Rizaj, Dem Shehu, Muhamet Krasniqi and Mirsad Ndrecaj were the leaders of the armed group that clashed with police in a suburb of Kumanovo, some 40km (25 miles) north of the capital, Skopje on Saturday, the interior ministry spokesman said.

Only one of the 14 uniformed bodies had been identified - that of another Kosovo national, named

Xhafer Zymberi, said the spokesman.

“More than 30 terrorists, mainly Macedonian nationals and one from Albania, surrendered yesterday [Saturday] to the police forces,” he added.

They would face Macedonian justice, Prime Minister Nikola Gruevski said.

The group had tried to destabilise the country, he said, after paying tribute to the security forces.

The operation in Kumanovo continued for hours

VE Day: Veterans join Queen at VE Day service and parade

T

he Queen has joined around 1,000 veterans and their families in a service of thanksgiving at Westminster Abbey to mark the 70th anniversary of VE Day.

The Archbishop of Canterbury said the veterans had ensured “victory over the greatest darkness of the 20th Century”.

Crowds gathered to watch a

military parade passing through Westminster towards Buckingham Palace.

It was followed by a fly-past of World War Two aircraft.

The events were held to commemorate the day, 70 years ago, when Nazi Germany surrendered to the Allies, bringing peace to Europe after nearly six years of war.

The Duke of Edinburgh, the Prince of Wales and Prime Minister David Cameron were at the service, which was led by the Dean of Westminster.

Representatives of the Allied nations and Commonwealth countries that fought alongside Britain also attended.

Young cadets read prayers which had been said in Westminster Abbey during the hourly services on VE Day in 1945.

Actor Simon Russell Beale also read from the VE Day speech of King George VI, the Queen’s father, who was monarch at the time.

There was a fly-past over central London by the Red Arrows and WW2 aircraft, including Spitfire and Hurricane fighters.

The Lancaster bomber was also due to take part in the flypast but an engine fire onboard the plane on Thursday has meant it has been grounded.

The events marked the culmination of the UK’s VE Day commemorations.

On Saturday evening, thousands of spectators, including WW2 veterans, gathered at an aircraft hangar-style stage in London’s Horse Guards Parade to see musical and dance acts influenced by the era and readings by actors.

Europe and Americas Election 2015: Sturgeon says Cameron must go further on devolution

S

cottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has called for new tax and welfare powers to be devolved to Scotland as a “priority”.

Ms Sturgeon told the BBC such powers would allow the Scottish government to grow the economy.

She added that she had spoken “briefly” to Prime Minister David Cameron but more discussions were required.

Ms Sturgeon also said her party now provided the main opposition at Westminster.

Labour, with 232 MPs, are the official opposition but Ms Sturgeon claimed her party, which gained 50 MPs on Thursday, was the one putting pressure on Mr Cameron’s Conservative government.

The SNP is the third largest party in the UK despite only standing in Scotland.

It took 56 of the 59 seats in Scotland, reducing Labour to just one MP when they had previously had 41.

Speaking to the BBC’s Andrew Marr programme, Ms Sturgeon said Mr Cameron did not appear to want to move beyond powers already outlined in the Smith Commission, which was formed after the independence referendum to fulfil the pledge to give Scotland further devolution.

She said: “What we will argue for is priority devolution of powers over business taxes, employment, the minimum wage, welfare, because these are the levers we need to grow our economy to get people into work paying taxes and lifting people out of poverty.

Elsewhere in the interview, Ms Sturgeon was asked whether a UK government offer of full fiscal autonomy - the devolution of all tax and spend powers - within two years would be a “good deal” for Scotland.

She replied: “It would be the responsibility of the Scottish government and our MPs down in the House of Commons to make sure we get a good deal.”

She said any move towards full fiscal autonomy created “questions” around issues such as how much Scotland contributed towards reserved areas such as defence, and how much Scotland would pay towards UK debt interest payments.

“We have not got into the details of those discussions,” she added. “My starting point is that Scotland’s voice has to be heard.”

She said any move to full fiscal responsibility would take several years to implement.

Ms Sturgeon described her party as the “principal opposition to the Conservatives”.

She said she would seek to build alliances with others to stand up for “progressive politics”.

Responding to former SNP leader Alex Salmond’s comments on Saturday thatfollowingtheparty’slandslidevictory he thought Scotland was now closer to independence, Ms Sturgeon said there was “no disagreement” between them.

PEOPLES DAILY, monday, may 11, 2015

Page 39

Strange World

Some artists use pencils, this one uses pencil shavings

T

eacher and part time artist Meghan Maconochie uses colored pencils to create art, but not in the conventional sense.

Instead of coloring with the pencils, she sharpens them and layers the shavings to on a white background to create all kinds of cool things, ranging from animals, to food and portraits of pop icons.

Meghan’s love affair with pencil shavings began when she participated in a color competition called ‘Nifty250’ last year. “I was sharpening a pencil when I decided to create the Nifty250 logo using the shavings from the pencil,” she said. She did just that, and her work was declared the winner.

Soon, she began making more and more pieces using pencil shavings.

She starts off by making a pencil sketch on paper, to use as a base. She then applies a thin layer of shavings on the

outer edges of the drawing, and layers it up to give it a more “sculptural look”, often spending several hours on a single piece. She sharpens each pencil by hand, and her sketches require anywhere

between half a pencil to an entire box of pencils. “My hands have calluses from all

the sharpening,” she said. “I have tried using an electric sharpener but the shavings end

up being too fine and turn to dust pretty much.”

Meghan is now involved in a photoseries called ‘Project365’, in which she makes one pencilshaving sketch a day and posts it on Instagram. Her work has been tremendously well received. Unfortunately, she throws the shavings away after photographing them. “I am experimenting with different fixatives to see if I can preserve the image,” she said.

Most of Meghan’s artworks reference pop culture icons.

“I like to create pieces that people can relate to and recognize,” she explained.

“I very much create what inspires me that particular day or week, whether it be music, film, people or other artists.” Some of the famous personalities she has depicted in her art so far include Audrey Hepburn, Amy Winehouse, Harry Potter, Nelson Mandela, among others.

One of Meghan’s most popular pencil-shaving sketches is of iconic actress Marilyn Monroe, which she posted a few weeks ago on Instagram. The post attracted over 800,000 likes, and was ‘regrammed’ by thousands of people, including Miley Cyrus, who wrote: “South African school teacher Meghan Maconochie’s artwork!!! Made all from pencil shavings! S-oo-o-o-o stoked Insta is here on earth so we can share our art around the world.”

Given the popularity of her work, Meghan soon intends to exhibit and start selling limited-edition prints of each image.

Page 40

PEOPLES DAILY, monday, may 11, 2015

Digest

Germs living in our sheets cause asthma, hayfever, flu and food poisoning on the bed linen and it can survive a wash.

‘Norovirus can be carried with no symptoms. You might not have pyjamas on, it’s easy to pass it to the linen.

‘Someone with food poisoning could be excreting salmonella into the bed.’

In order to stop dust mites from colonising the bed, she said hoovering regularly is important, and having hard floors rather than carpets means fewer will survive.

Leaving open a window to let some of the moisture and humidity out will also help, she added.

‘In alpine areas, people used to hang their bedding and their duvets out of the window,’ Dr Ackerley said.

‘The cold alpine air kills the dust mites. They probably didn’t know they were doing it for that reason, but it’s a good idea.’

Investing in an allergenic

protectors for the mattress and pillows could also help people with allergies, she added.

And to kill off both dust mites and germs, changing and washing sheets regularly at 60 degrees is important.

Dr Ackerley said: ‘Some washing machines don’t go up to 60 degrees – so you could wash at a lower temperature and use a laundry disinfectant.

‘If you do send your linen out, or wash your bedding in a public laundry, think about a disinfectant again. Someone might’ve been ill and then you go put your linen there.

‘I spoke to a laundry company who said they were scared to wash above 40 as they were scared of damaging the goods – so not all companies wash clothes to high temperatures.’

Source: Dailymail.co.uk

Beds can become reservoirs of human cells, bacteria and excretions of the body. Dust mites and germs gather there, causing illnesses including colds and flu, allergies, asthma and food poisoning, an expert warned

A

fter a long day at work, there is nothing more relaxing than climbing into your comfortable bed.

But lurking beneath the sheets are millions of tiny organisms that could be making us ill, experts have warned.

Mattresses, duvets, and pillows become reservoirs of human skin cells, encouraging dust mites.

The tiny creatures, in turn, can increase a person’s risk of suffering a cold as well as a range of allergies.

And there’s more bad news. Our bed linen can also harbour microorganisms that can trigger nasty illnesses from flu to food poisoning.

Dr Lisa Ackerley, a home hygiene expert, said people could be unwittingly suffering from ‘sick bed syndrome’.

She told MailOnline: ‘Humans shed half an ounce of skin week and a lot of that will be in the bed.

‘Dust mites like warm moist environments, the bed’s the perfect environment. They reproduce so there will be about 10 million per bed.

‘Often people are away in the day, so they shut the windows and the moisture stays in the house.

‘Houses are more insulated and there are no drafts so there can be a build up of humidity.

‘If you make the bed when you go out that traps the duvet and the moisture, and the dust mites have a great time.’

In two years, 10 per cent of the weight of a pillow will be made up of dust mites and their droppings, she added.

Whilst dust mites themselves are harmless, their faeces and body fragments can trigger allergic reactions, prompting the body to release histamines to attack the allergen.

This can cause eczema and hay fever, and estimates suggest dust

mites may be a factor in up to 80 per cent of people with asthma.

Dr Ackerley, added: ‘They can cause rhinitis, a cough, dry eyes. They can disturb sleep. People with other allergies can have them made worse.

HOW CAN YOU PREVENT SICK BED SYNDROME? Change and clean bed linen on a weekly basis and wash separately from other clothing to kill bacteria and dust mites When washing bed linen add a laundry disinfectant such as Dettol Anti-bacterial Laundry Cleanser, which claims to kill 99 per cent of bacteria in temperatures as low as

30°C Decrease the temperature and humidity levels in the bedroom to reduce the number of dust mites Regularly hoover all soft furnishings, including the mattress, within the bedroom ‘People might think they just have a cold the whole time. Dust mites really are an issue.’

And she warned, because people spend a lot of time in their beds, with many choosing to sleep naked, mattresses can become a breeding ground for micro-organisms, that trigger a range of nasty illnesses.

She said: ‘If people have a cold, the cold and flu virus. It can survive

In two years, 10 per cent of the weight of a pillow will be made up of dust mites and their droppings, said home hygiene expert Dr Lisa Ackerley. There are 10 million mites (pictured under the microscope) in an average bed

Is yogurt the secret to easing hay fever?

I

f you’re struggling with the usual sneezing and itchy eyes this spring, try eating a pot of yogurt.

Probiotics, the friendly bacteria found in yogurt, can ease hay fever, according to research.

The findings are based on a new analysis of 23 studies involving more than 1,900 people.

Doctors at Vanderbilt University School of Medicine said 17 of the studies showed a significant clinical benefit from the use of probiotics for hay fever when compared to a placebo.

Writing in the International Forum of Allergy & Rhinology, the researchers said: ‘The current study suggests that probiotics have the potential to alter

Probiotics, the friendly bacteria found in yogurt, can ease hay fever, according to a new analysis of 23 studies

disease severity, symptoms and quality of life in patients with allergic rhinitis (hay fever).

‘Positive outcomes were reported in a majority of studies with no significant adverse effects.’

However, they stopped short of recommending probiotics as a standalone treatment for people suffering with the condition.

Hay fever affects up to one in five people at some point in their life, according to NHS data.

Pollen, the fine powder released by plants as part of their reproductive cycle, contains proteins that can cause the nose, eyes, throat and sinuses to swell and become irritated.

If you have hay fever earlier in the year you are likely allergic to tree pollen, whereas if you have more trouble in the summer, you are probably more sensitive to grass pollen.

In childhood, the condition is more common in boys than girls, but in adulthood, men and women are equally affected.

As well as hay fever, probiotics have been shown to improve symptoms in other inflammatory conditions, such as

dermatitis and irritable bowel syndrome, the researchers said.

It’s thought that, by altering the balance of bacteria in the gut, probiotics may influence the activity of T cells – a type of white blood cell involved in our immune system – although the exact mechanisms ‘have yet to be completely defined’ the researchers said.

‘Much about the role of probiotics in the human response remains poorly understood and additional translational studies will likely be needed to clarify this in the future,’ they said.

The news comes after another Dutch studyfoundboostingthefriendlybacteria in our gut could help our minds too.

A study found adding the types of probiotics found in live yogurt to our diets could help lower the risk of depression by reducing negative thoughts.

The scientists, from Leiden University in the Netherlands, said those who took the supplements for four weeks were significantly less reactive to sad moods than those who took a dummy supplement.

Source: Dailymail.co.uk

SporT 41 Page

PEOPLES DAILY, monday, may 11, 2015

sports@peoplesdailyng.com, SMS- 08142929046

Super Eagles

NSC hails Falcons, pledges support to NFF

By Albert Akota

A

cting Director-General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), AlHassan Yakmut, has hailed Nigeria’s Super Falcons, pledging maximum support as they prepare for the World Cup in Canada this year.

Yakmut, who was officially introduced to the team during at the weekend by Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) General Secretary, Sanusi Mohammed, said he brought the goodwill of millions of Nigerians who were fanatical about the team’s exploits both in Africa and the world.

“I bring you good tidings from

the Honourable Minister of Sports and millions of Nigerians who are fanatical about your exploits in Africa and the world. Your record in this continent and the world speaks for itself. I believe you will go for this World Cup and do excellently well because all the players including the goal keepers look good and ready”

“You represent over 180 million Nigerians, it is not a mean task. It’s a task that is very heavy to bear and I want to wish you well and wish you all the best. May God bless and guide you. I am delighted to be part of you because Falcons is Yakmut and Yakmut is Falcons” he concluded.

Earlier, NFF General Secretary,

Sanusi had introduced the DG to the team, harping on a sound working relationship between him and the National Sports Commission.

“Al- Hassan Yakmut is our boss and we are happy to have him as a professional and I believe there is going to be a good working relationship between NFF and the NSC” Sanusi said.

PEOPLES DAILY, monday, may 11, 2015

PAGE 42

PUBLIC NOTICE AJUMOGOBIA & OKEKE BARRISTERS & SOLICITORS H. ODEIN AJUMOGOBIA SAM OVIE E. UKIRI A.OLASUPO SHASORE SAN OLUFEMI D. LIJADU BABATUNDE A. SODIPO PATRICK A. OSU

STERLING TOWER 20 MARINA LAGOS, P.O. BOX 55109 FALOMO, TEL: 2719368-9,4622687-8 FAX: 2719882, 4622686, E-MAIL: AO@AJUMOGOBIAOKEKE.COM WWW.AJUMOGOBIAOKEKE.COM

2nd April, 2015, The Registrar, Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot No. 420, Tigris Crescent, Off Aguiyi Street, Maitama, Abuja.

Dear Sir, NOTICE OF APPLICATION OF LIQUIDATORS FOR THE WINDING UP OF ENERGY SHIELD LIMITED We write as Liquidators appointed by Energy Shield Limited (“the company”) in the winding up of the company.

Please be informed that by a special resolution dated 2nd April 2015, Miss Lateefat Hakeem Bakare of the law firm of Ajumogobia & Okeke and Mary Joy Okasi, of the law firm of Mary Joy Okasi & Co. have been appointed as joint liquidators of the above company.

Thank you.

Yours Faithfully,

PUBLIC NOTICE SALVATION LIBERTY PROGRESSION INT’L CHURCH THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED CHURCH HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1.NNAJI CHUKWUDI 2.NNAJI BLESSING THE AIMS AND OBJECTS ARE: 1.TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF CHRIST. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUYI IRONSI STREET PMB 198, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28TH DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION. SIGNED: SECRETARY

PUBLIC NOTICE HEAVENLY CITIZENS’ CHRISTIAN WORLD OUTREACH

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1.PASTOR BENJAMIN AKPEVWE EGOH - CHAIRMAN 2.PASTOR (MRS) ELIZABETH IVIE EGOH 3.PASTOR JACOBS IGHOVOGHO EGOH - SECRETARY 4.PASTOR STEVE EMON MARIO 5.PASTOR EDAFE ELIJAH EGOH 6.MR. EMMANUEL EKORO EMORI THE AIMS AND OBJECTS ARE: 1.TO PREACH MESSAGE OF SALVATION. 2.TO HELP PEOPLE BECOME MORE COMMITTE FOLLOWERS OF JESUS CHRIST. 3.TO EVANGELISE UNBELIEVERS, ENCOURAGE BELIEVERS IN THEIR PERSONAL FAITH, FELLOWSHIP AND SERVICE TO GOD. 4.TO HELP PEOPLE BUILD AND DEVELOP THEIR CAPACITY AND ABILITIES AND EMPOWER THEM SPIRITUALLY, INTELLECTUALLY AND PHYSICALLY. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUYI IRONSI STREET PMB 198, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28TH DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION. SIGNED: SECRETARY

CHANGE OF NAME

I FORMERLY KNOWN AS MISS. EZEBUILO HELEN OGECHUKWU. NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AS MRS. MOMOH HELEN OGE. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. ALL AUTHORITIES CONCERNED AND GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

CHANGE OF NAME

I formerly known as Kabiru Safiyanu, now wish to be known and addressed as Abdurrahman Safiyanu. All former documents remain valid.

Makarfi Local Government Council and general public to note.

CHANGE OF NAME

I formerly known as JIBRIN HARUNA , now wish to be known and addressed as MUSTAPHA AHMAD. All former documents remain valid. Makarfi Local Government Council and general public to note.

PUBLIC NOTICE ENERGY SHIELD LIMITEDos 15, Association Road, Osopa, Kilometer 45, Lagos-Epe Exp. Way, Lagos.

Tel: 08083142305, 07042572567256 THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA COMPANIES & ALLIED MATTERS ACT CAP C20 LFN 2004 PRIVATE COMPANY LIMITED BY SHARES SPECIAL RESOLUTION OF THE MEMBERS OF ENERGY SHIELD LIMITED RC: 898170 Pursuant to sections 234 and 457 of the Companies and Allied Matters Act Cap c20 LFN 2004, it is hereby resolved by the members of the above named company tha: 1.

The company be and is hereby wound up voluntarily, due to the decision of its members to discontinue it business.

2.

Lateefat Hakeem-Bakare of Ajumogobia Okere, 20 Marina, Sterling Towers, Lagos & Mary-Joy Okasi of Mary-Joy Okasi & Co. be and are hereby appointed to act as joint liquidators for the purposes of the winding-up.

3.

The Joint Liquidators are directed to file the relevant documents with the corporate Affairs Commission, Abuja, reflecting the above position.

DATED THE 2ND DAY OF APRIL, 2015.

PUBLIC NOTICE BEYOND BARRIERS GLOBAL INITIATIVE

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED INITIATIVE HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1.VEN. LEMUEL CHUKWUGEKWU OJIH - CHAIRMAN 2.SAMUEL IKECHUKWU EZE - SECRETARY 3.ENGR. ANTHONY OKECHUKWU EZE 4.COMFORT ORIAKU EZE 5.IFEOMA COMFORT NDEFO 6.ENGR. CHARLES CHIBEZE NDEFO THE AIMS AND OBJECTS ARE: 1.TO HELP THE UNDER-PRIVILEGED BY MEETING THEIR PHYSICAL, MEDICAL, MATERIAL AS WELL AS SPIRITUAL NEEDS. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUYI IRONSI STREET PMB 198, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28TH DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION. SIGNED: ANAYO IKEAH SOLICITOR

PUBLIC NOTICE EMPATHY ARK OF LOVE FOUNDATION

KEBBI STATE UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY, ALIERO,P.M.B. 1144, BIRNIN-KEBBI, KEBBI STATE (OFFICE OF THE REGISTRAR) INVITATION FOR PRE-QUALIFICATION OF CONTRACTORS/SUPPLIERS FOR SPECIAL PRESIDENTIAL NEEDS ASSESSMENT INTERVENTION PROJECTS (PHASE II) 1.0 INTRODUCTION The Kebbi State University of Science and Technology, Aliero invites reputable and competent Contractors to submit their pre-qualification documents for assessment to bid for the Special Presidential Needs Assessment Intervention projects (Phase II).

2.0 SCOPE OF THE PROJECTS The projects for which pre-qualification of contractors/suppliers are invited, are as follows: LOT 1: Construction of 50 Capacity Self Content PG Male Hostel LOT 2: Construction of 50 Capacity Self-content PG Female Hostel LOT 3: Construction of Faculty of Education LOT 4: Construction of Academic Staff Offices in the Faculty of Education LOT 5: Construction of 250 Capacity Seminar Room LOT 6: Procurement and Installation of Furniture for 240 Capacity Student Hostel LOT 7: Upgrading of Water and Electricity Supply on Campus LOT 8: Development of Recreational Facilities LOT 9: Procurement and Installation of Furniture for 50 Capacity self Content Postgraduate (PG) Male Hostel LOT 10: Procurement and Installation of Furniture for 50 Capacity Self Content Postgraduate (PG) Female Hostel.

LOT 11: Procurement and Installation of Furniture for Faculty of Education LOT 12: Procurement and Installation of Furniture for Academic Staff Offices in the Faculty of Education LOT 13: Procurement and Installation of Furniture for 250 Capacity Seminar Room.

3.0 PRE-QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS To qualify for the bidding, the following documents are required:i.

Evidence of Registration with Corporate Affairs Commission ii.

Audited Accounts of the Company for the last three (3) years iii.

Tax Clearance Certificates for the last three (3) years iv.

Evidence of VAT Registration and remittance v.

Evidence of similar and verifiable projects successfully executed by the Company indicating location, letters of award and completion certificates for the last three (3) years vi.

List and specification of major equipment possessed by the company vii.

List of managerial, technical and administrative staff of the company viii.

Evidence of financial capability and letter of introduction from a reputable Bank ix.

Evidence of remittance of staff pension contributions to the appropriate pension custodian/administrator x.

Evidence of remittance of training contribution in compliance with ITF Act 2011.

4.0 SUBMISSION OF PRE-QUALIFICATION DOCUMENTS Pre-qualification documents should be enclosed in a sealed envelope and marked “Prequalification Documents for___________________________” on the top left hand corner and addressed to:

The Registrar,

Kebbi State University of Science and Technology, Aliero, P.M.B 1144, Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State 5.0 CLOSING DATE FOR SUBMISSION The deadline for submission of application(s) for pre-qualification is two (2) weeks from the date of this advertisement.

6.0 OPENING OF PRE-QUALIFICATION DOCUMENTS a.

The pre-qualification documents received are to be opened on the closing date at 12:00pm in the Council Chamber of the University b.

All prospective contractors and the general public are invited to the opening Ceremony c.

Only pre-qualified contractors shall be invited to tender d.

The University reserves the right to reject any or all of the documents submitted and to terminate the entire selection processes at any time without any explanation and/or any liability against the university e.

The University shall not go into any correspondence with any unpre-qualified Company.

SIGNED Dr. (Mrs.) Hajara Mairukubta Ag. Registrar and Secretary to Council

PUBLIC NOTICE VOLUME ASSEMBLY INTERNATIONAL

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED FOUNDATION HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1.EVANGELIST ESTHER IWUESE TSUMBU - PRESIDENT 2.PASTOR JAMES ICAL 3.JUSTICE MAURICE AHEMBA IKPAMBESE 4.EMMANUEL VONDUL DANGFA 5.GRACE MBARUWUN TSUMBU 6.PASTOR ISAAC SUNDAY OJONUGU - SECRETARY 7.VERONIC AGUGU IVEREN

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1.APOSTLE SAMUEL CHIGOZIE DEMIAN - PRESIDENT 2.EVANG. LOVE SAMUEL 3.SIS. ROSEMARY BENARD AMAMA 4.SIS. DEBORAH OFORUM 5.LEADER MOSES CHINONYE NLEM 6.SIS. CHIDINMA KENNETH 7.GABRIEL NKWOCHA

THE AIMS AND OBJECTS ARE: 1.TO PROMOTE EMPOWERMENT OF WOMEN AND YOUTHS. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUYI IRONSI STREET PMB 198, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28TH DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION.

THE AIMS AND OBJECTS ARE: 1.TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST.

SIGNED: SECRETARY

CHANGE OF NAME

I formALLY known as Igweh Alex Henry now wish to be known and addressed as Ekachukwu-Igweh Alex Henry Solution. All former documents remain valid. all finanial institutions, relevant agencies both public/private and the general public should take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

I formALLY known as anthony james okere now wish to be known and addressed as anthony james arije. All former documents remain valid. julius berger and the general public should take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

I FORMERLY KNOWN AS MISS KHADIJA SULEIMAN NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MRS KHADIJA SULEIMAN YUSUF. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. UMARU MUSA YAR’ADUA UNIVERSITY, KATSINA,NYSC AND GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD TAKE NOTE.

ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUYI IRONSI STREET PMB 198, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28TH DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION. SIGNED: SECRETARY

CHANGE OF NAME

I formALLY known as miss. chidinma ahianow wish to be known and addressed as mrs. chidinma ekeoba. All former documents remain valid. nysc and the general public should take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

I formerly known as miss Awe Yetunde Zainab now wish to be known and addressed as mrs Adefusika Yetunde. All former documents remain valid. GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD TAKE NOTE.

CHANGE OF NAME

I FORMERLY KNOWN AS ABIGAIL DANIEL .NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AS ABIGAIL GE0FFERY BATURE DAFE . ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. BAUCHI BAUCHI. AND the GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

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PEOPLES DAILY, monday, may 11, 2015

PUBLIC NOTICE FIRE REIGN INTERNATIONAL CHURCH

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1.PASTOR OKARDI IDIBIYE 2.MRS OKARDI JULIET 3.PASTOR NEVIN SAMSON 4.PASTOR OKARDI INIFIE 5.PASTOR EFULAMBA DARLINGTON THE AIMS AND OBJECTS ARE: 1.TO PREACH AND PROPAGATE THE GOSPEL OF OUR LORD AND SAVIOUR JESUS CHRIST. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUYI IRONSI STREET PMB 198, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28TH DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION. SIGNED: BARR EGUAKHIDE PRECIOUS OHIFEME 08061306764

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

IGBOEZUE CULTURAL ADVANCEMENT ORGANISATION THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED ORGANIZATION HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

STEVE SURULERE SAHEED FOUNDATION THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED FOUNDATION HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Chief chekwas okorie 2. Laz chukwu 3. David okereke ukeje 4. Chief Benji iheanyi duru 5. Chief ikechukwu obiekwe 6. Hon. Chambers okorie

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Mr. Agboyinu Steve Surulere 2.MR. Jolomi Arenyeka

THE AIMS AND OBJECTS ARE:

1.FOR THE DEVELOPMENT AND PROMOTION OF IGBO CULTURE, VALVES, HERITAGE AND TRADITION. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUYI IRONSI STREET PMB 198, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28TH DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION. SIGNED: Barr. Eugene Egu For: Equinox Solicitors, Abuja.

THE AIMS AND OBJECTS ARE:

1.TO CATER FOR LESS PRIVILEGED VIA HEALTH CARE FACILITY, EDUCATION AND SCHOLARSHIPS ETC. 2.TO GIVE CARE, SUPPORT AND EMPOWERMENT THAT WILL ALLEVIATE POVERTY IN THE SOCIETY. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUYI IRONSI STREET PMB 198, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28TH DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION. SIGNED: OLUSOLA AREOMIYE ESQ SOLICITOR

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

OFU-OBI PROGRESSIVE ASSOCIATION WARRI DELTA STATE THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED ASSOCIATION HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

The faith bible mission Aladura worldwide THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

MISHANARI CARE TEAM INTERNATIONAL THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1.CASMIR MMERE - CHAIRMAN 2.AMECHI SAMUEL OKWARAUZOMA - VICE CHAIRMAN 3.PETER ORJI - SECRETARY 4.KEVIN NWOKEOGU - FINANCIAL SECRETARY 5.IKECHUKWU MADUAGWU - TREASURER

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Rev. Adesope Sunday Eniloloibo 2.Pastor Mrs taiwo dupe mustapha 3. Rev Elizabeth Adeola Anuola Eniloloibo 4.Pastor Michael Olatunbi 5.Deaconess Bose olotu 6.Miss Maria Atinuke Asaolu 7.Apostle Adebisi Rebecca Joseph

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1.ENGR.STEVE CHIA 2.DR.MRS.CLARA IYA 3.REV JERRY FARUK 4.MRS JULIE JERRY .FARUK 5. MR.IBRAHIM FARUK THE AIMS AND OBJECTS ARE:

THE AIMS AND OBJECTS ARE: 1.TO CATER FOR THE GENERAL INTEREST OF ITS MEMBERS AND RENDER MORAL AND FINANCIAL SUPPORT TO ITS MEMBERS WHEN NECESSARY.

1.To preach the gospel of our lord Jesus Christ.

THE AIMS AND OBJECTS ARE:

1.To HELP THE SICK, THE NEEDY AND THE UNEMPLOYED IN THE SOCIETY TO SPREAD THE GOSPEL OF JESUS CHRIST IN THE SOCIETY

ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUYI IRONSI STREET PMB 198, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28TH DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION.

ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUYI IRONSI STREET PMB 198, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28TH DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION.

ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUYI IRONSI STREET PMB 198, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28TH DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION.

SIGNED:BARR ELAKHE JOSEPH. O

SIGNED:SECRETARY

SIGNED:SECRETARY 08033497853

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

MIGHTY TO SAVE MANIFESTATION MINISTRY

FAVOURED EXCLUSIVE SOLUTIONS FOUNDATION

HARVEST WORLD CHANGERS PENTECOSTAL ASSEMLBY

The general public is hereby notify that the above named Ministry has applied to Corporate Affairs Commission Abuja for registration under Part “C” of Companies and Allied Matters acts 1990.

The general public is hereby notify that the above named FOUNDATION has applied to Corporate Affairs Commission Abuja for registration under Part “C” of Companies and Allied Matters acts 1990.

The general public is hereby notify that the above named has applied to Corporate Affairs Commission Abuja for registration under Part “C” of Companies and Allied Matters acts 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Pastor Rose Nkemdirim Nwuba - General Overseer 2. Blessing Chidiogo Nwuba - Secretary 3. Mr. Edwin OkoliNwuba 4. Mr. Donatus Afamefuna Ofoeghu

Trustee: 1. Chibueze Okwaraoha 2. Mrs. Monica Chioma Okwaraoha 3. Edwin Chibueze Okwaraoha 4. Lucy Alice Prew

Trustee: 1. Apostle Christian Josiah Ogbra 2. Edward Udonwa 3. Henry Atatobe 4. Ezekiel Omole 5. Godwin Emeka Njoku

THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE: 1. To preach the word of God. Any objection to the registration should be forwarded to the Registrar-General, Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420, Tigris Crescent, Off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, P.M.B. 198, Garki, Abuja within Twenty-Eight (28) days from the date of this publication.

SIGNED: Secretary

Aims & Objective:

1. Provision and promotion of health care services and equipment/materials to the less privileged and poor communities.

2. To enhance enabling and reproductive health service delivery.

Any objection to the registration should be directed to the Registrar General, Corporate Affairs Commission, plot 420, Tigris Crescent, Maitama District, Abuja, within 28 days from the date of this publication.

Signed: SECRETARY

Aims & Objective: 1. To preach and teach the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ to all nations.

Any objection to the registration should be directed to the Registrar General, Corporate Affairs Commission, plot 420, Tigris Crescent, Maitama District, Abuja, within 28 days from the date of this publication.

Signed GREG NWAKOGO 018445262 e-mail: info@rosberglegal.com

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

GREEN GOLD AND HEALTH INITIATIVE

HUMAN DIGNITY ENHANCEMENT INITIATIVE

NEW CRUSE CHURCH INTERNATIONAL

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED INITIATIVE HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION IN THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

This is to inform the general public that the above named Initiative has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under Part C of the Companies and Allied Matters Act, 1990

This is to inform the general public that the above named CHURCH has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under Part C of the Companies and Allied Matters Act, 1990

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Saddi Umar Jal 2. Rebecca James 3. Abdulmumin Umar 4. Mallam Danjuma Dabo Imam 5. Pastor Nuhu James 6. Mallam Buba Hamma Adama

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Rev. Christopher Amaku 2. Mr. Nnamdi Ikwuka 3. Mr. Orji Uzowulu 4. Mary Mbelu 5. Ngozi Onyeachona 6. Evang. Samuel Okwuonu 7. Dr. Mrs. Comfort Nwalusi

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Pastor Ekpenyong Ita Ekpenyong - President 2. Pastor Modupe Adekemi Ekpenyong - Secretary 3. Pastor Francis Omonoju - Trustee 4. Pastor Funlola Craig - Trustee 5. Pastor Samuel Abraham - Trustee

AIM AND OBJECTIVE:

1. To assist the less privileged in the society by providing medical assistance.

ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR – GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420 TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION SIGNED: SECRETARY

The aim and objectives:

1. To advocate for enabling policy, social, economic and political environment for human development.

2. To empower the social and economically deprived in the society.

Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the Registrar-General, Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420, Tigris Crescent, Off AguiyiIronsi Street, Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

Signed: CHARLES NDUKWE ESQ{08033295480

The Aim and Objective: 1. To preach and propagate the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ.

2. Winning souls to Christ and entrenching the gospel through church planting outreaches, school for theological puposes and other ancillary thereto.

Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the Registrar-General, Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420, Tigris Crescent, Off AguiyiIronsi Street, Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

Signed: PASTOR EKPENYONG ITA EKPENYONG PRESIDENT

PAGE 44

PEOPLES DAILY, monday, may 11, 2015

PUBLIC NOTICE CEDAR BUSINESSMEN FORUM

PUBLIC NOTICE JOJE ABEBE ART FOUNDATION

This is to notify the general public that the above named Body has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission, Abuja for registration under Part C of the Companies and Allied Matters Act, Cap C20, LFN 2004.

THIS IS TO NOTIFY THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED FOUNDATION HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, ABUJA FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT, CAP C20, LFN 2004.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. NNAEMEKA CHIMEREZE – CHAIRMAN 2. IKENNA CHUKWEBUKA OKOLO 3. HELEN OGBA 4. MR OZOEMENA KENNETH 5. MRS GRACE CHIMEREZE

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. DR. JOHN ONUWABHAGBE ABEBE 2. MRS. NGOZI ABEBE 3. MRS. JAMAIMA ANGELA OSAMUDIAMEN EBAGUA 4. MRS. OBIAGELI CHINELO ANOZIE 5. MRS. TUNIKA CLEOPATRA AKUNYILI

THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1. TO CREATE A CONDUSIVE PLATFORM FOR BUSINESSMEN TO SOCIALIZE 2. TO HELP MEMBERS IMPROVE IN THEIR BUSINESSES THROUGH OUR VARIOUS INSENSITIVES AND FACILITIES. 3. TO HELP CREATE STRONG PASSION FOR SUCCESS IN BUSINESS AMONGST MEMBERS. 4. TO CREATE A PLATFORM FOR SUCCESSFUL MEMBERS TO FACE BACK AND SUPPORT THE SOCIETY. 5. TO CREATE INTEREST AMONGST SCHOOL LEAVERS TO VENTURE INTO BUSINESS AND BE SELF EMPLOYED.

THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1. TO PROMOTE REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH. 2. TO ENCOURAGE COUPLES HAVING DELAYS IN CHILD BEARING BY PROMOTING ASSISTED REPRODUCTIVE TECHNOLOGY. 3. TO PROVIDE COUNSELING AND GUIDANCE TO ITS COUPLE MEMBERS WHILE WAITING FOR THE FRUIT OF THE WOMB.

ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420 TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUYI IRONSI STREET PMB 198, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28TH DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION.

ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420 TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUYI IRONSI STREET PMB 198, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28TH DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION. SIGNED UNICORN CHAMBERS, ABUJA 09 - 2901208

SIGNED:K. A. AJUNWA ESQ

PUBLIC NOTICE CHRISTIAN OKPAMBOR FOUNDATION

This is to notify the general public that the above named Foundation has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission, Abuja for registration under Part C of the Companies and Allied Matters Act, Cap C20, LFN 2004.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. OKPAMBOR HENRIETTA 2. VICTOR OKAFOR 3. OBI SUNNY ONYEMA 4. OGBOI IGNATIUS IFEANYI 5. EMUEZE ANTHONY 6. BENNY BENJAMIN AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1.TO PROVIDE SUPPORT FOR THE LESS PRIVILEGED. 2.TO ENHANCE THE WELL BEING OF INDIVIDUALS IN THE SOCIETY. 3. TO CATER FOR THE LESS PRIVILEGE ESPECIALLY WOMEN AND CHILDREN. Any objection to the registration should be forwarded to the Registrar General, Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420, Tigris Crescent, Maitama Federal Capital Territory, Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

Signed: BARR. OKPAMBOR HENRITTA

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

ALROUNDAFRICA INTERNATIONAL FOUNDATION THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED FOUNDATION HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

Elshaddai Revival Gospel Ministry THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED MINISTRY HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

PRAYING BELIEVERS CHURCH OF GOD THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED CHURCH HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE 1.DANIEL CHIKEZIE 2.KATE CHIKEZIE

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1.PASTOR COLLINS OGUEJIOFOR AGBO 2.SISTER ETHEL CHIOMA AGBO 3. CHRISTOPHER OKEKE 4. MARIAM ANAYO-NGENE 5. CHINEMEREM ONUKWUE

THE TRUSTEES ARE (1). PASTOR AMULEYA AKIN LAWRENCE - CHAIRMAN (2). PASTOR OMOOGUN EMMANUEL OBADUYI (3). EVANG. OLOGUN CORNELIUS ADE- SECRETARY (4). DECONESS AMULEYA BUNMI LYDIA

THE AIM AND OBJECTIVES ARE: YOUTH EMPOWERMENT, POVERTY ALLIVIATION AMONG THE YOUTH ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUYI IRONSI STREET PMB 198, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28TH DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION. SIGNED: SECRETARY

THE AIMS AND OBJECTS ARE: 1.TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUYI IRONSI STREET PMB 198, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28TH DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION. SIGNED: SECRETARY

THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE: 1.TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUYI IRONSI STREET PMB 198, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28TH DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION. SIGNED: SECRETARY

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

SOLID ROCK WORLD WIDE PROPHETIC MINISTRY

RECLAIM GODLY VALUES FOUNDATION

HUMPHREY ANUMUDU FOUNDATION

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED MINISTRY HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1.CHRISTIAN NWACHUKWU 2.AMARACHI DIVINE NWACHUKWU 3.CHINEDU ISICHIE GABRIEL THE AIMS AND OBJECTS ARE: 1.TO PREACH THE WORD OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST AND SAVIOUR OF MANKIND TO THE UTMOST PART OF THE WORLD. 2.TO ORGANIZE CRUSADES, SEMINARS ETC. 3.TO PROMOTE THE GOSPEL OF PEACE AND RECONCILIATION IN JESUS CHRIST AND DEMONSTRATE HIS HEALING POWER. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUYI IRONSI STREET PMB 198, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28TH DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION. SIGNED: SECRETARY

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED FOUNDATION HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1.AYODELE EDWARDS 2.EDWARD TAIWO 3.EFE LORETTA EDWARDS THE AIMS AND OBJECTS ARE:

1.PROVIDE A PLATFORM TO MOBILIZE PARTICIPATORY ACTION FOR THE RESTORATION OF OUR NATION THROUGH POSITIVE ADVOCACY, MENTORSHIP, EMPOWERMENT, INTERCESSION AND HUMANITARIAN SUPPORT. 2.TO AWAKEN AND RECLAIM GODLY VALUES AND ENTRENCH THEM IN OUR WAY OF LIFE AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE AND INSPIRE PEOPLE TO ADOPT THEM FOR THEIR PERSONAL AND ORGANIZATION TRANSFORMATION. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUYI IRONSI STREET PMB 198, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28TH DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION. SIGNED:BARR. BLESSING EKWUNIFE 08181410971

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED FOUNDATION HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1.HUMPHREY EGBU ANUMUDU - CHAIRMAN 2.AKUNNA SYLVIA ONYEDIRE - SECRETARY THE AIMS AND OBJECTS ARE:

1.TO GIVE SUCCOUR TO THE POOR, THE NEEDY, AND THE LESS PRIVILEGED IN THE SOCIETY BY WAY OF RENDERING FINANCIAL AID AND ASSISTANCE WITHOUT INTEREST. aNY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUYI IRONSI STREET PMB 198, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28TH DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION. SIGNED: GODWIN. I. IMAKHAI ESQ IMOESI CHAMBERS.08054145214

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

NIGERIA SOCCER LANGUAGE FANS CLUB THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED CLUB HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED ASSOCIATION HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

PANTU-NBANG DESCENDANTS ASSOCIATION

WORLD TRANSFORMERS INTERNATIONAL CHRISTIAN MINISTRY THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED MINISTRY HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1.IKPEA OYAMEDA SAMUEL 2.UDEGBUNAM IZUCHUKWU MARK 3.OKEDIADI OKWUAMAKA DEBORAH 4.NURENI RASHEED 5.ALEX IKPEA THE AIMS AND OBJECTS ARE: 1.TO GIVE SUPPORT TO THE GAME WITHIN THE NATION ATLARGE. 2.TO HARMONISE UNITY AMONG FOOTBALL FANS. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUYI IRONSI STREET PMB 198, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28TH DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION. SIGNED: SECRETARY

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1.EDWARD BITRUS NBANG 2.PANTU SILAS DAKWO 3.SANI YADING 4.GABRIEL PANTU 5.MARYAMU PANTU 6.CECILIA MBANG 7.RAHAB BITRUS 8.DABO PANTU THE AIMS AND OBJECTS ARE:

1.TO PROMOTE UNITY, HARMONY, PEACE AND PROGRESS AMONGST THE DESCENDANTS OF OUR GREAT PATRIARCHS-DIKAM PANTU AND DIKAM NBANG. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUYI IRONSI STREET PMB 198, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28TH DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION. SIGNED: SECRETARY

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1.APOSTLE OZOBU PHILIP CHUKWU 2.PROPHETESS MRS. OZOBU NGOZI ANTONIA THE AIMS AND OBJECTS ARE: 1.TO SPREAD THE GOSPEL OF JESUS CHRIST ALL OVER THE WORLD. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUYI IRONSI STREET PMB 198, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28TH DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION. SIGNED: LOUIS UDO ITIBA ESQ BROADVIEW SOLICITORS SUITE 115, DEO GRATIAS PLAZA, UTAKO, ABUJA. 08063534609

PEOPLES DAILY, monday, may 11, 2015

PUBLIC NOTICE CENTRAL AREWA EDUCATION FOUNDATION

This is to inform the general public that the above named FOUNDATION has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission, Abuja for registration under Part ‘C’ of the companies and Allied Matters ACT, 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Dr. Abbas Alhaji Waziri 2. Alh. Magaji Inuwa 3. Salihu Waziri 4. Prof. Musa Kabir Yusuf 5. Prof. Mujtaba Suleman Abubakar 6. Dr. Aliyu Magatakarda Wamako AIM AND OBJECTIVES:

1. To encourage high educational standard amongst the less priviledged in the society.

Any objection to the registration should be forwarded to the Registra-General, Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420 Tigris Crescent, Off AguiyiIronsi Street, Maitama, Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

Signed: O. J. OCHUNU ESQ

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PUBLIC NOTICE

FOUNDATION FOR PARTNERSHIP INITIATIVE IN THE NIGER DELTA

The general public is hereby notify that the above named FOUNDATION has applied to Corporate Affairs Commission Abuja for removal and appointment of additional trustees under Part “C” of Companies and Allied Matters acts 1990.

Trustee ARE: 1. Andrew Lawrence Fawthrop 2. Olasupo Ezekiel Shadiya 3. Prof. Femi Ajibola 4. Sam Daibo 5. Mina Margaret Ogbaga 6. Chief Edwin Porbeni 7. Mr. Anire Cely Okogun

REMOVAL Trustee ARE: 1. Andrew Lawrence Fawthrop 2. Chief Edwin Porbeni APPOINTED OF NEW Trustee ARE: 1. Clay Neff 2. Jones Itombra Okoro

Aims & Objective: 1. To facilitate partnership in designing and managing social and economic development programs that will improve the standard of living in the Niger Delta.

2. To generate opportunities for sustainable and equitable economic development in the Niger Delta.

Any objection to the registration should be directed to the Registrar General, Corporate Affairs Commission, plot 420, Tigris Crescent, Maitama District, Abuja, within 28 days from the date of this publication.

Signed ANOZE OBINNAYA OBI ESQ, MNI; 08036255888 (SOLICITOR)

PUBLIC NOTICE

SHINNING STARS FAITH REVIVAL CHURCH

The general public is hereby notify that the above named CHURCH has applied to Corporate Affairs Commission Abuja for registration under Part “C” of Companies and Allied Matters acts 1990.

Trustee: 1. EgbodoImoha Mathew 2. Onah Augustine Odu 3. Egbodo Emmanuel Ogah 4. Daniel Owubo Jannett 5. Egbodo Sunday Omniyi 6. Egbodo Ochole Alice Aims and Objective:

1. To preach the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Any objection to the registration should be directed to the Registrar General, Corporate Affairs Commission, plot 420, Tigris Crescent, Maitama District, Abuja, within 28 days from the date of this publication.

Signed SECRETARY

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

FAITH FIRE DELIVERANCE AND RESTORATION MINISTRY The general public is hereby notify that the above named ministry has applied to Corporate Affairs Commission Abuja for registration under Part “C” of Companies and Allied Matters acts 1990.

The general public is hereby notify that the above named FOUNDATION has applied to Corporate Affairs Commission Abuja for registration under Part “C” of Companies and Allied Matters acts 1990.

Trustee: 1. Evangelist Hycienth Enyeribe 2. Evangelist (Mrs.) Hope Hycienth Aims & Objective:

1. To propagate the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ to all nations Any objection to the registration should be directed to the Registrar General, Corporate Affairs Commission, plot 420, Tigris Crescent, Maitama District, Abuja, within 28 days from the date of this publication.

Signed SECRETARY

PUBLIC NOTICE

DAVID UDUH MINISTRIES

The general public is hereby notify that the above named MINISTRIES has applied to Corporate Affairs Commission Abuja for registration under Part “C” of Companies and Allied Matters acts 1990.

Trustee: 1. David Chibueze Uduh - Chairman 2. Hannah Gift Uduh 3. Emeka Francis Onuoha 4. Uke UchennaIro - Secretary 5. Adaeze Chinyere Okoh 6. Rosemary Chinwe Uduh Aims & Objective:

1. To preach the gospel of Christ, bringing sinners to Christ and building them up in the full knowledge of God for great exploits.

2. To take the word and presence of God all over the universe through ministries outreach programme.

ABRAHAM AJIBODE OGUNGBOHUN FOUNDATION

Trustee: 1. Agungbohun Kayode Joseph 2. SobayoOluyemi Christopher 3. Ven. Josiah Sunday SewanuWusa 4. FalolaTheophilus Idowu 5. Adeola Olajumoke Okelola 6. Adekunle Petinrin 7. Ogungbohun Benita Oyindamola Aims & Objective:

1. To Humanitarian services such as free health care, medical outreach and workshops for government hospital staff.

Any objection to the registration should be directed to the Registrar General, Corporate Affairs Commission, plot 420, Tigris Crescent, Maitama District, Abuja, within 28 days from the date of this publication.

Signed: BELLO ADEKUNLE

PUBLIC NOTICE OKEREWA COMMUNITY TRUST FOUNDATION

This is to inform the general public that the above named FOUNDATION has applied to Corporate Affairs Commission Abuja for registration under part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matters Act 1990.

TRUSTEES 1. Emmanuel Okerewa - President 2. Ngokanya Benjamin Ngochi - Secretary 3. Okerewa Paul Abraham 4. Elechi Osaro Etechi 5. Elechi Emmanuel Chima 6. Ejire Appolos Chu 7. Okanje Williams Nzidee 8. Nwakama Osaro 9. Omute Ngbingbi 10. Friday Prince Yorgbaa 11. Mr. Osarogoda Goda The Principal Objectives are:

Any objection to the registration should be directed to the Registrar General, Corporate Affairs Commission, plot 420, Tigris Crescent, Maitama District, Abuja, within 28 days from the date of this publication.

1. To foster peace, unity and development of the community.

2. To sensitized the people on the need to come home and contribute their ow quota in the development of their community.

Any objection to the registration should be forwarded to the Registrar-General Corporate Affairs Commission, Wuse zone 5 Abuja within 28 Days of this publication.

Signed: SECRETARY

Signed: Secretary

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

NOME UNIQUE FRIENDS CLUB

APARA KINGDOM YOUTH DEVELOPMENT INITIATIVE

The general public is hereby notify that the above named CLUB has applied to Corporate Affairs Commission Abuja for registration under Part “C” of Companies and Allied Matters acts 1990.

The general public is hereby notify that the above named INITIATIVE has applied to Corporate Affairs Commission Abuja for registration under Part “C” of Companies and Allied Matters acts 1990.

Trustee: 1. Chief Augustine Ugwoke - Chairman 2. Arc. Everistus Ugwuja - Secretary 3. Chief Engr. Vitalis Abba 4. Chief Kevin Okechukwu Ezugwu 5. Chief Lawrence Oju

Trustee: 1. Omunakwe Godwill 2. Prince Chime Amadi 3. Dr. Kinikanwo Green 4. Barr. George Chinda 5. Samuel Womanda 6. Desmond Atuzie

Aims & Objective:

1. To promote the interest of members.

2. To provide socio-economic empowerment to the people of the community.

Any objection to the registration should be directed to the Registrar General, Corporate Affairs Commission, plot 420, Tigris Crescent, Maitama District, Abuja, within 28 days from the date of this publication.

Signed SECRETARY

- President - Secretary

Aims and Objective:

1. To promote the development of the youths of Apara Kingdom through trainings, seminars, workshops.

2. To organize the youths of Apara Kingdom to contribute their quota towards the development of their community and the world at large.

Any objection to the registration should be directed to the Registrar General, Corporate Affairs Commission, plot 420, Tigris Crescent, Maitama District, Abuja, within 28 days from the date of this publication.

Signed SECRETARY

PEOPLES DAILY, monday, may 11, 2015

PAGE 46

PUBLIC NOTICE AMSSCO WOMEN IN DA’WAH FOUNDATION

The general public is hereby notify that the above named FOUNDATION has applied to Corporate Affairs Commission Abuja for registration under Part “C” of Companies and Allied Matters acts 1990.

Trustee: 1. Hajiya Kaltume Sandabe 2. Hajya Maimuna Bage 3. Hajiya Rabi Usman Awobajo 4. Hajiya Nafisa Muhammad 5. Aliyu Saleh Karazau Aims & Objective: 1. To promote Islamic teachings and principles.

Any objection to the registration should be directed to the Registrar General, Corporate Affairs Commission, plot 420, Tigris Crescent, Maitama District, Abuja, within 28 days from the date of this publication.

Signed M. T. A. BADIRU

AUCTION! AUCTION!! AUCTION!!!

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THERE WILL BE AN AUCTION SALES OF UNSERVICEABLE VEHICLES AT THE FEDERAL MINISTRY OF POWER, FEDERAL SECRETARIAT PHASE 1 ,ANNEX III, ABUJA ITEMS ARE: TOYOTA LAND CRUISER . V8 TOYOTA HILUX TOYOTA CAMRY SALES WILL TAKE PLACE ON THE 11TH AND 12TH OF MAY 2015 FOR ENQUIRY PLEASE CONTACT THE AUCTIONEER ALH. IBRAHIM MUHAMMED. TELL: 08033570566 PUBLIC NOTICE Centre for Rehabilitation and Social Integration in Africa

This is to inform the general public that the abovenamed has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under part ‘C’ of the Companies and Allied Matters Act of 1990.

The Trustee Are; 1.Dr Yinusa Tanko, 2.Dr Joe Odumakin, Engr Kamal Ibirinoye Aims and Objectives a.Rehabilitation and Re-integration of Internally Displaced Persons(IDPs) in Nigeria and Sub-Sahara Africa, b. Provide support for victims of terrorism and other forms of violent attacks in the Society c. Rehabilitation and re-integration of socially impaired people like the Amajiris, the physically challenged, street beggars, the albinos, victims of rape and other vulnerable people in the soceity.

Any objection to this registration should be forward to the Registrar-General,Corporate Affairs Commission,Abuja, within 28 days of this publication.

Signed secretary

PUBLIC NOTICE BUVIBA AFRICAN MOTHER AND CHILD WOMEN INITIATIVE THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED INITIATIVE HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1) AKINDUTIRE BUKONLA MARY- President 2) AKINDUTIRE OLAREWAJU BLOOB - Secretary 3) SULE EMANNUEL OLADIPUPO Aims & objectives: 1. TO REACH OUT TO THE LESS PRIVILEGED. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUYI IRONSI STREET PMB 198, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28TH DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION. SIGNED: SECRETARY

PUBLIC NOTICE SHIEKH MUHAMMAD MUSTAFA ISLAMIC FOUNDATION

PUBLIC NOTICE THE REFORMATION CHAPEL

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED FOUNDATION HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION IN THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED, HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT, 1990

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Shiekh Muhammad Mustafa 2. Alh. GarbaShani 3. Ibrahim Lawan Bukar 4. Engr. Muhammad Abba Sanda 5. Engr. Abba Yusuf 6. Alh. Ibrahim Rahama 7. Alh. Adamu Isa Abadam 8. Alh. Abubakar Mustafa 9. Alh. Goni Dunoma 10. TplLiman Gana Mustapha

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Pastor Oladapo Oluwarosiji Daniels- Chairman 2. Mr. John John Reuben - Secretary 3. Pastor Genesis IyajiEbi - Member 4. Pst. Ephraim Ofonimeh Ezekiel - Member 5. Deaconess Joyce Ehinogie Daniels - Member

AIM AND OBJECTIVE:

1. To provide Islamic education and scholarship.

ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR – GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420 TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION

THE AIM AND OBJECTIVES: 1. To preach the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ throughout the world.

ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED: GREG NWAKOGO 018445262 E-MAIL: info@rosberglegal.com

SIGNED: SECRETARY

LOSS OF DOCUMENT

This is to inform the general public that,the original certificate of occupancy with BN 6213 issued by the Benue state Government belonging to MR.Tarzungwe Tsavnande Ashan of Adikpo kwande L.G.A. , got missing and that all efforts made to trace the missing document proved abortive. If found please return it to the nearest police station PUBLIC NOTICE OLUKAYODE SOLOMON AKALA-AKANDE FOUNDATION

This is to inform the general public that the above-named Foundation has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under part ‘C’ of the Companies and Allied Matters Act of 1990.

The Trustee Are; 1- Barrister Olukayode Solomon Akande -Chairman 2- Mrs Ikeade Omolade Akande 3-Mr. Oluwaseun Aderemi Adeyinka 4- Barrister John Mayokun Dada 5- Dr Olaoluwa Stephen Onigbinde 6-Prince Olakiitan Raymond Akande.

Aims and Objectives 1-To give charity to the less privilege,the down trodden,the aged,orphans,the widows,the destitute and the melancholic.

2-To encourage educational development of the people to the benefits of our society.

3-Foe service to humanity through the provision of humanitarian aids where and when necessary.

Any objection to this registration should be forward to the Registrar-General,Corporate Affairs Commission,Abuja, within 28 days of this publication.

Signed Barrister Olukayode Solomon Akande

PUBLIC NOTICE LADIDI BABA FOUNDATION

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED FOUNDATION HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1.HAJIA HADIZA LADI YAHUZA - CHAIRMAN 2.MOHAMMED UMAR A. - SECRETARY 3.BASHIR SANI BUHARI 4.HAJIA FATIMA YAHUZA MOHAMMED 5.HAUWA ASABE HARUNA 6.AMINA MOHAMMED YAHUZA 7.IBRAHIM MUA’ZZIM HARUNA THE AIM AND OBJECTIVES ARE: 1.EMPOWERMENT OF WIDOWS, ORPHANS AND LESS PRIVILEGED IN THE SOCIETY. 2.TO ENCOURAGE ISLAMIC EDUCATION. 3.TO PROMOTE SKILLS ACQUISITION. 4.TO HELP IMPROVE THE LIVES OF ORPHANS, WIDOWS AND LESS PRIVILEGED. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUYI IRONSI STREET PMB 198, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28TH DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION. SIGNED:MOHAMMED UMAR A. (SECRETARY)

CHANGE OF NAME

I FORMERLY KNOWN AS MISS IMAOBONG ITA ENANG. NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AS MRS. IMAOBONG EMEFEN UDOM. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID.ALL AUTHORITIES CONCERNED AND GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

CHANGE OF NAME

I FORMERLY ADDRESSED AS ONONUJU AGNES OKAFOR NOW WISHES TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESS AS ONONUJU AGNES BEN-ALAKA, ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID, GENERAL PUBLIC TAKE NOTE.

PAGE 47

PEOPLES DAILY, monday, may 11, 2015

PUBLIC NOTICE

The dew spirit global prophetic church of God

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED CHURCH HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1.ENGINEER PROPHET ADEBOLA - CHAIRMAN 2.FRIDAY FOLORUNSHO 3.PROPHETESS DAMILOLA ADEMOLA 4.OLUWAKEMI ADEBOLA - SECRETARY

PUBLIC NOTICE

COMMUNITY INTEREST ADVANCEMENT INITIATIVE

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED INITIATIVE HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1.OTUNBA KAYODE ONADELE ONAFADEJI - PRESIDENT 2.YEWANDE ADERONKE - SECRETARY 3.DR. ADEDOYIN ONAFADEJI - MEMBER 4.ADEYEMI ONAFADEJI - MEMBER

PUBLIC NOTICE

MURYAR KANAWA KIRISTA

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: (1)Pst. Haruna Yola - Chairman (2) Abba Ahmed Maikasuwa - Secretary (3) Saratu I. Maigida - Treasurer

THE AIM AND OBJECTIVES ARE:

THE AIM AND OBJECTIVES ARE: 1.TO PROMOTE RURAL HEALTH CARE AND INFRASITURE. 2.TO EMPOWER YOUTH AND WOMEN THROUGH MICROENTERPRISE DEVELOPMENT. 3.TO PROMOTE ZERO TOLERANCE OF CHILD LABOUR.

ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUYI IRONSI STREET PMB 198, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28TH DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION.

ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUYI IRONSI STREET PMB 198, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28TH DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION.

SIGNED: SECRETARY

SIGNED: AINA ADELEKE & Co LEGAL PRACTITIONERS

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

WE-PRAY INTERNATIONAL MINISTRY

SIR PATRICK IKECHUKWU IGBOKWE FOUNDATION THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

LAMIDO ABBA TUKUR FOUNDATION‎ This is to inform the general public that the above named Foundation has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under Part C of the Companies and Allied Matters Act, 1990.

1.TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST.

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED MINISTRY HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Pastor Moses Prince Samuel (President) 2. Faith Moses Samuel 3. Moses Prince Samuel (Jnr.) 4. James Samuel THE AIM AND OBJECTIVES ARE: 1.TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUYI IRONSI STREET PMB 198, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28TH DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION.

TRUSTEES: 1. IGBOKWE PATRICK IKECHUKWU 2. IGBOKWE NKIRU UKAMAKA 3. CHINEDU NEBOLISA AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: TO SUPPORT COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL. CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET. PMB 198, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28TH DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION. SIGNED: SECRETARY

SIGNED: BARR DICKSON OGHENE

THE AIM AND OBJECTIVES ARE: 1.To promote christian faith irrespective of denominational inclinations.

ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUYI IRONSI STREET PMB 198, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28TH DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION. SIGNED: SECRETARY

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Lamido Abba Tukur 2. Umaru Lamido Tukur 3. Bashir Lamido Tukur The aim and objectives:

1. Empowerment of less privileged in the Society 2. Encourage unity and peaceful coexistence among Nigerians Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the Registrar-General, Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420, Tigris Crescent, Off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

Signed: Secretary

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

BETTER DAYS RURAL COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT INITIATIVE

BLUE ROSE COMPASS NIGERIA EMPOWRMENT INITIATIVE THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED INITIATIVE HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION IN THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

OGBOMOSO AND DISTRICT PLANK AND WOOD DEALERS’ ASSOCIATION

The general public is hereby notified that the above named INITIATIVE has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for Registration under part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matters Act of 1990.

3.TENUMAH ALERO NAOMI. THE TRUSTEES ARE: 4. HASHIM SULEIMAN YUSUF. 1. OWEIBIA LARRY MORDECAI 5. MRS. ONOSEN OKOTIE. 2. DENNIS A. MENE. AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1. To empower people in the rural communities through initiatives.

2. To provide improved access to health care services,education and other basic necessities of life in the rural communities.

3. To foster social inclusion,equality, justice and mutual respect among the people living in the rural communities.

4. To ensure that women are strategically empowered for sustained family living through trainings and financial assistance.

5. To create awareness for a healthy and sustainable environment 6. To provide programs for the development of people in the rural areas through graduate trainee ,internship and other empowerment programs for sustainable development.

7.To partner with the private sectors,government,groups,NGO’s

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Abiose Eldred Ogan-Cole 2. Lorna Solis AIM AND OBJECTIVE:

1. To empower refugees and internally displaced persons (IDP) in Nigeria through education and job creation.

2. To ensure that such young gifts and talents are admitted and educated in the best schools and to secure good jobs upon graduation.

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED ASSOCIATION HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

TRUSTEES: 1. Amos Adeyemo Odedele 2. Jacob Olabode Bara 3. Amos Tope Adepoju 4. Oyeniran Gabriel AIMS AND OBJECTIVES:

1. To foster and protect the interest of members.

2. To eradicate all forms of illegal and unauthorized dealers into the trade of plank and wood business in Ogbomoso.

3. To promote unity and love among members.

4. To encourage and assist members in any human endeavour that will be of any interest of our people.

Any objection to this Registration should be forwarded to the Registrar General Corporate Affairs, plot 420, Tigris Crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Abuja within 28 days of this publication SIGNED:BARR KARO RUGBERE

ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR – GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420 TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION SIGNED: DIMUDE OBIANUJU 08039146630

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

GOOD NEWS CRUSADERS MISSION

IFEKLYNE CHARITY FOUNDATION

FOUNDATION FOR INNOVATION AND YOUTH EMPOWERMENT FOR SELF RELIANCE THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED FOUNDATION HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990

,groups and individuals to assist communities to achieve specific projects.

This is to inform the general public that the above named CHURCH has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under Part C of the Companies and Allied Matters Act, 1990

This is to inform the general public that the above named FOUNDATION has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under Part C of the Companies and Allied Matters Act, 1990

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Pastor Apugo Innocent Ibegbu 2. Pastor (Mrs.) ImmaculataIfy Apugo 3. Evangelist Aloy Ejimogu 4. Pastor Cleese Locknan 5. Bro. Chidi Ejimogu 6. Elder Festus Omoruyi 7. Sis. Uzoamaka Ejimogu

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Ifeaka Innocent Ogbolime 2. Chijioke Kennedi Oji 3. Olawole Olabanji 4. Emmanuel Offei 5. Isimeme Patience Ogbolime

THE AIM AND OBJECTIVES:

1. To teach and proclaim the word of God (Gospel/Goodnews) of our Lord Jesus Christ in all partsof the world starting from Nigeria.

Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the Registrar-General, Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420, Tigris Crescent, Off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

SIGNED: BARR. ATUNMAN JAMES ALI 08039316103

- Chairman - Secretary

The aim and objectives:

1. To do charity to the needy in the society.

2. To cater for the general welfare of its members and the less privileged in the society.

Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the Registrar-General, Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420, Tigris Crescent, Off AguiyiIronsi Street, Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

Signed: ERASMUS OGELEKA, ESQ 08037004689

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T

Pele

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he 74-year-old had an operation after it was discovered he has an enlarged prostate, the second time in the past year the football legend has had medical issues Brazil legend Pele was released from hospital on Saturday after undergoing surgery, medical officials in Sao Paulo confirmed.

The 74-year-old’s enlarged prostate - which was discovered to have no cancerous tumours - was operated upon this week to lessen complications linked with the abnormality.

Pele left Albert Einstein Hospital to minimal fanfare with his girlfriend on Saturday at 18:30 local time, declining to give any interviews.

It was the second time in the past several months that Pele had been forced to attend the Brazilian hospital after being treated for kidney problems in November and December last year over the space of two weeks.

Pele, considered by many to be one of the best players of all-time, scored 77 times in 91 caps for Brazil and won a record three World Cups during his playing career.

He has occupied his time since retirement in 1977 in a variety of ways including working as a UN ambassador, scouting for a Premier League club and representing New York Cosmos as their honorary president.

– PDP’s national Chairman Adamu Mu’azu

Tekena Tamuno

he year 1984 opened on a traumatic note in Nigeria.

A democratic government had just been overthrown and Nigerians were trying to readjust themselves to the dramatic change.

The military men themselves were hard put to justify the putsch. There was scarcity of the most essential necessities and conveniences for human existence.

Rice, sugar, torch light batteries, toilet papers etc all became known as ‘essenco’ and were scarce. The military broke into the ware houses of the National Supply Company that had imported these items and tried to distribute them directly to members of the public. But this was no easy task as hundreds and thousands of Nigerians rushed to the distributing points to help themselves.

It was about this time that the government, headed by General Muhammadu Buhari introduced a code of public conduct for all Nigerians, tagged the War Against Indiscipline, (WAI). It sought to impose instant punishment on those who refused to queue at bus stops and other public places; those who urinated or defecated in public; those who walked or drove on flower beds etc. Nigerians long used to carefree conduct did not find these measures funny and soldiers, long used to regimental control stepped in with horse whips to enforce WAI. Suddenly, such brutal public acts by the military that were common in other African countries which Nigerians only used to read about in foreign media and swear that they would never happen in our country became common place. Coupled with other tough measures introduced by the government, Nigerians who had jubilated at the overthrow of the democratic government became apprehensive and disoriented.

There was a lot of concern about state of affairs in Nigeria.

One Nigerian offered an explanation at the sad turn of events. He said Nigeria had treated the Great Zik of Africa during the 1983 election campaign and after it with such contempt and disrespect that the man who fought for the freedom of Nigeria from colonial bondage pronounced a curse on the country and that was why everything seemed to be going upside down. He called on Nigerians to plead with the father of the Nation to lift the curse, failing which Armageddon would descend on Nigeria.

True, in his bid to be President of Nigeria in 1983, Zik had suffered many unjustified indignities. I was witness to one of them. At the Maiduguri airport, Zik landed in a private jet with his top partymen in the Nigerian Peoples Party, NPP,

Pele departs hospital after prostate surgery

The result of the 2015 presidential election is the elixir the Peoples Democratic Party needs to reinvent itself instead of wasting time and energy mudslinging and blame gaming…

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Monday Column Emmanuel Yawe royawe@yahoo.com 08024565402

Tekena Tamuno that hot afternoon for a campaign stomp. The program was that they would drive to the palace of the Shehu of Borno to pay homage, proceed to the Government House to refresh and from there go to the designated venue of the rally.

But the Borno State Commissioner for Police, one Dahiru Njidda would not hear of such movement. He was at the airport himself to lead the politicians straight to the venue of the rally, no courtesy call on the Shehu nor refreshment at Government House were allowed.

The politicians pleaded with the police commissioner to grant them their fundamental human rights but this fell on deaf ears. Instead, the commissioner placed Zik and the politicians under house arrest. The other incidence was a description by Dr Chuba Okadigbo of complaints by Zik about the conduct of the 1983 elections as “the ranting of an ant”.

In reaction to Tamuno’s theory, the Great Zik himself issued a statement to say that he never cursed Nigeria; but it was evident that Nigeria was not the country of his dream, for which he fought for its freedom, sometimes at very grave personal risks. To Tekena Tamuno, Zik’s anger amounted to a curse for which the country needed to do penance. That was Professor Tamuno, foremost Nigerian historian and former Vice Chancellor of Nigeria’s Premier University at Ibadan at his ethical best.

I was admitted into the university in the mid 70’s, by which time he was already the

Vice Chancellor. My admission was communicated to me via a newspaper publication, followed by an admission notice, a telegram, delivered to me through the local Postal Agency in my rather remote village. I did not lobby for it. All I needed was the requisite qualifications and the entrance examinations which I sat and passed. My father, a poor village elementary school teacher knew nobody to talk to or bribe before I got admitted. This is common place today.

One year into my studies at Ibadan, my grandfather, a Reverend Gentleman who used to work with some American missionaries succeeded in getting me admission into an American College, complete with a scholarship. We had discussed the scheme before I stepped foot in Ibadan. But once in Ibadan, the journey to America became unattractive to me. The Ibadan University of the 70’s was a place where a young man of my age wanted to be. You needed five credits before you got admitted there whereas with most American universities then, three credits were enough. It was a pride to be in Ibadan while those who ventured to go to the US were those whose results were not good enough. Ibadan was the first and the best University for Nigerian youths.

Not just Nigerians; it was a real international institution. All over Africa, those who got UN and Common Wealth scholarships were sent to Ibadan. We had South Africans, Rhodesians, Namibians,

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Americans, Britons and many more as students there. It was an excellent school with an excellent environment to study and learn even beyond your course of choice.

Apart from my studies, I was a sportsman and we frequently toured the West African Coast to meet our counterparts in Ghana, Benin, Togo, Ivory Coast etc in sports.

There was a Vice Chancellor who presided over this system that worked so perfectly. We all held him in awe, like the other academicians we had on the staff list. Such Professors like Billy Dudley, Obaro Ikime, Bade Onimode, Ukon Udokan, Bolaji Akinyemi, Bayo Adekson, Richard Joseph and many others could hold their heads high, anywhere in the world. Sadly, after the ‘Ali Must go’ crisis of 1978, some of the radical lecturers who kept the campus alive were purged from the system by the Obasanjo administration. Thus began the decay in the Nigerian university system and a drift towards cultism which replaced the radical tradition of liberation from apartheid and colonialism that kept Ibadan and other Nigerian universities aglow.

Looking back, I have nothing but high respect for Tamuno, the man who kept these hot heads on his staff list. On the few occasions I saw him at public functions, he looked like a small god to me. Very aloof, civilized and gentle in his speech and mannerisms. When I won the much coveted University colour in sports, I shook his hands and took the trophy. I was literally in heaven.

Tekena Tamuno hailed from Okrika in Rivers State. In him, we had the best that our country could offer. Another son or daughter of that famous town has in recent times shown the world that Okrika could also offer the worst.

The emergence of Lady Patience Jonathan in our public space and the death of Tekena Tamuno have shown just how low Nigeria has sunk.

DAN GAYE

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