Wednesday 14th May, 2014 Edition

www.peoplesdailyng.com

Vol. 13 No. 62

Wednesday, May 14, 2014

..

. putting the people first

Rajab 15, 1435 AH

N150

Nyako, Gaidam kick as Jonathan extends emergency rule l We’re studying president’s proposal, says Shettima >>pg 2

Abducted schoolgirls

Govt ready to talk with Boko Haram – Minister

l No negotiation with terrorists - Senate president >>pg 2

L-R: Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Disaster Risk Reduction, Margareta Wahlström, Director General, National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Malam Muhammad Sani-Sidi, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator Anyim Pius Anyim, and Minister of State for FCT, Oloye Olajumoke Akinjide, during the 5th African Regional Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction, yesterday in Abuja.

Photo: Justin Imo-Owo

>>> page 3

BH video: Borno identifies 77 Chibok students

>>> page 3

Bomb kills 3 soldiers in Jigawa

>>> page 27

Building collapse: COREN seeks death penalty for offenders

PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESDAY, MAY 14, 2014

PAGE 2

News

CONTENTS News 2-10 Editorial 12 Op.Ed 13 Letters 14 Opinion 15 Metro 16-18 Business 19-22 Stockwatch 23 S/Report 24-25 Property 26 Arts

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No justification for Col. Nyam’s appointment into confab – Unongo – Page 37

Int’l 31 S/World 35 Digest 36 Politics 37 Newsxtra

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Sports 41 Columnist 48

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Govt ready to talk with Boko Haram – Minister

By Maryam Garba Hassan & Ikechukwu Okaforadi

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inister of Special Duties and Inter-Governmental Affairs, Alhaji Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, yesterday in Abuja, announced the Nigerian government's readiness to negotiate the release of the over 200 abducted Chibok schoolgirls with the girls' abductors, the Boko Haram sect.

However, in what appears to be a divergence of opinions within the federal government, Senate President David Mark countered the special duties minister's position, saying in far away China that the government will not negotiate with terrorists.

Boko Haram leader, Abubakar Shekau, had in a video released on Monday indicated the sect's readiness to free the abducted Chibok schoolgirls should the Nigerian government agree to release its members being detained in various facilities across the country.

The special duties minister, while expressing concern over Boko Haram's tendency to renege on agreements, assured in an interview with Hausa service of the

BBC monitored in Abuja, that the federal government is ready to parley with the sect for the release of the girls.

Turaki, who headed the Presidential Panel on Insecurity in Northern Nigeria, which tried to negotiate an end to the insurgency with the violent sect, emphasised however, that the government will only accept Boko Haram's offer of prisoner swap with the hostages, if the sect names people who would mediate on its behalf with government representatives.

He revealed that during last year's dialogue of his committee with the sect, government had obliged to the group's request to release some of its members, "but yet, the violent campaign (of the group) did not cease. Rather, it (violence) even increased".

The minister particularly recalled that "among those released last time was Shekau's wife, and even his sister", decrying further that the group failed to meet its own part of the bargain by ending the insurgency.

Turaki noted that Shekau knows many ways of reaching across to the government, including the media outlets he frequent-

ly uses to issue public statement, adding that, "even me here his (Shekau's) people have my number, and so he knows how to reach us".

But speaking to journalists in Beijing, China, yesterday, Senator Mark said that the federal government would not negotiate with terrorists under whatever circumstance.

He said negotiating with terrorists as being demanded Shekau, over the abducted girls, may not serve any good purpose but to further give them room to wreck more havoc on both the country and the citizens.

He expressed doubt that the terrorists would even fulfil any terms of agreement that may be entered into with them, with no platform of trust whatsoever.

"Nigeria will not negotiate with terrorists under any circumstance because you don't negotiate with criminals which Boko Haram insurgents are.

"We are doing everything possible to bring the girls back safe and sound for their parents, without any negotiation with Boko Haram, as every effort towards that which cannot be disclosed in

the public is being made to rescue the girls", he stressed.

Mark who added that he was worried about the abduction of the girls like other Nigerians, disclosed further that at the beginning of the insurgency in 2010, government never knew that they had international network with other terror groups of the same mission.

This, he said, made government's position then to be largely centred on dialogue since the insurgents were largely believed to be Nigerians.

According to him, "with the situation of things now, government has no any other option than to militarily wipe out the insurgents from the country's territory through ongoing collaborations being made with other countries that had faced or facing similar challenges.

"The cooperation the nation needs from Nigerians now is for every one of them having vital information on the insurgents and their sponsors in and outside the country, to make it available to government through its relevant security outfits in the general interest of all", he stressed.

noting that extension of emergency rule is not the answer to the prevailing security challenges in the three affected states, in view of the apparent failure of the same measure over the last 12 months.

The state government noted that the emergency rule, since it came into effect, has been a mixed-bag that was marked more by failure than by success, arguing that Yobe state had seen some of the worst attacks by Boko Haram under the current dispensation.

Governor Nyako, in his opposition noted that the attempt by President Jonathan to extend the emergency rule in the state was a move to disenfranchise the people of the state, come 2015 elections.

He therefore urged members of the National Assembly to use their constitutional powers to frustrate the move, saying that the imposition of the emergency rule in the three affected states was unconstitutional.

He added that none of the seven conditions that warrant the imposition of emergency rule prevails in Adamawa before its imposition, but that out of political expediency the president declared emergency rule in the state.

On its part, the Borno state government is not taking any position yet on the matter.

When contacted last night to state the government's position, Governor Kashim Shettima said his administration's top priority at the moment is securing the release of the abducted Chibok schoolgirls.

The governor who spoke through his Special Adviser, Media, Isa Umar Gusau, said his government was still studying the

president's proposal for extension of emergency rule and would make its position known in due course.

Senators from the North-east also strongly opposed the president's request. Senators Ahmed Lawan and Ali Ndume vehemently opposed the renewed quest on the grounds that the initial efforts failed woefully to address the insurgency.

Lawan, who is the secretary of the Northern Senators Forum, said: "The state of emergency had been operated for 12 months now and will end on the 19th of this month. I think that should be the end.

According to him, "Instead, the federal government should deploy more military personnel and modern equipment to the affected states. What is crucial, essential and imperative is not the state of emergency but the enablement of the military, especially those in the battle front to have the state of the art technology and weapons.

"The President of the Senate, David Mark, who spoke on our behalf last week, told President Goodluck Jonathan that the Senate was prepared to approve supplementary budget to further equip the military and boost the morale of the soldiers.

"Therefore, I am completely opposed to the extension of the state of emergency in Adamawa, Borno and Yobe. But I support further funding for the military operations in the area", he said.

After reading the letter, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Aminu Waziri Tambuwal directed the committee on

rules and business to raise the matter on the floor today, for deliberations.

Lawmakers who spoke to one of our reporters shared different views on the planned extension.

Rep Aminu Sulaiman (APC Kano), while reacting said: "I don't want to preempt the position of the House on the matter, but we would look at the issue critically to see whether the situation has improved during the period of emergency rule or not".

Rep Aliyu Sani Madaki (APC Kano), however said the lawmakers will do everything possible to resist the extension of emergency rule. "What happened to the states in the last one year under emergency rule? Did the situation improved? I see no reason why the emergency rule would be extended", he emphasised.

Rep. Abdularahman Terab, (APC Borno), however said he is in full support of the emergency rule. "Anybody who wishes that the emergency rule to be removed should provide us with an alternative security.

Even the civilian Joint Task Force are doing what they are doing with the support of the military.

"If you go to Bama or Maiduguri and tell them that you don't want the state of emergency in the state, they will kill you, because they know what the military's doing there", he said.

Based on the last extension which will expire on the 18th of this month, the president's request, if granted will commence from the 19th of this month and end on the 19th of September.

Nyako, Gaidam kick as Jonathan extends emergency rule

By Patrick Andrew, Ikechukwu Okaforadi, Umar Muhammad Puma in Abuja & Umar Dankano, Yola

A

damawa state governor, Admiral Murtala Nyako and his Yobe state counterpart, Malam Ibrahim Gaiidam, have expressed opposition to President Goodluck Jonathan's proposed extension for another six months, of the emergency rule imposed on three North-east states of Borno, Yobe and Adamawa.

In a letter to the Senate President, which was read on the floor of the Senate by Deputy Senate President Ike Ekweremadu, who presided over the sitting, Jonathan said: "I most respectfully request distinguished senators to consider and approve by resolution, the extension of the Proclamation of the State of Emergency in Adamawa, Borno and Yobe States by a further term of six months from the date of expiration of the current term".

Jonathan further said: "The security situation in the three states has remained daunting, albeit to varying degrees, in the face of persistent attacks by members of the Boko Haram sect on civilian and military targets with alarming casualty rates".

He however pointed out that a lot of progress has been made in containing the situation and restoring normalcy in the affected states, but said extension of the emergency by another six months would be needed to quail the insurgency.

In reaction to this development, the Yobe state government rejected the president's move,

PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESDAY, MAY 14, 2014

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News

The following schoolgirls have been established from the video They are: 1 Agnes Gafane 2.

Saraya Stober 3 Hauwa Bitrus 4.

Hajara Isa 5.

Na'omi Philimun 6.

Hauwa Abdu (1st Speaking) 7.

Magret Yama 8.

Shitta Abdu 9.

Jummai Muta 10.

Ladi Paul 11.

Roda Peter 12.

Filo Dauda 13.

Godiya Bitrus

Bomb kills 3 soldiers in Jigawa From Ahmed Abubakar, Dutse

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bomb, alleged to have been planted by the roadside, has killed 3 soldiers believed to be on patrol in a bush located in Gwaram local government area of Jigawa state.

According to a source at the area, who spoke to our reporter, the Joint Task Force vehicles numbering upto 10 were on a patrol of the area when suddenly the bomb was detonated and killed 3 soldiers in an 'Operation Salama' vehicle while 3 others were in critical condition.

The incident, which occurred around 6 p.m., happened at a forest near Gwani, at Bisirka village, Gwaram local government area, Jigawa.

The soldiers were attacked in an ‘Operation Salama’ vehicle while entering the forest, suspected to be a hide-out of gunmen, whereby only a few weeks ago some gunmen attacked a police station and killed seven mobile policemen in the same Gwaram local government headquarters.

The road side bomb that hit the JTF convoy was suspected to be planted by the criminals, who had since turned the forest as their hideout.

When contacted, the state’s Police Public Relations Officer (PPPRO) of the command DSP Abdul Jinjiri, confirmed the bomb attack, but stressed that the incident occurred at a town

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Saratu Tauji (2nd Speaking) Ross Daniel Hauwa Ali Hajara Isa (Amira 3rd Speaking) Luba Afga Na'omi Luka Saraya Emos Ali Bilkisu Abdullahi Mairama Ali Maryam Ali Maiyanga Dabora Abbas Kabu Mala Halima Ali Yana Bukar

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Solomi Pugu 29.

Lydia Emmar 30.

Luba Sanda 31.

Saraya Samuel 32.

Comfort Habila 33.

Rejoice Shanki 34.

Gloria Yaga 35. Mary Nkeki 36.

Moda Baba 37.

Hauwa Isuwa 38.

Patient Jacob 39.

Ladi Jajel 40.

Abigel Bukar 41.

Fanta Lawan

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Zainabu Yaga Aisha Lawan Zanna Dokas Yakubu Kabu Mala Maryama Bashir Hauwa M. Maina Mary G. Dauda Susana Yakubu Maryam Abbas Laraba John Hanatu Nuhu Na' omi Bukar Rifkatu Galang

Borno video: Borno identifies 77 Chibok students From Mustapha Isah Kwaru, Maiduguri

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orno state governor, Kashim Shettima has confirmed that the girls shown in a video released by the Boko Haram sect are part of the schoolgirls abducted at Government Secondary School, Chibok following a night attack on April 14, 2014.

Governor Shettima announced this, yesterday, during a press briefing, held after a peaceful procession by the Coalition of Civil Society bodies and activists under the “#Bring Back Our Girls” initiative, in Abuja.

Fifty-four of the girls from the video were identified by their names, at an exercise that involved some parents of the girls, fellow students that include escapees from abduction, some teachers, security men and some officials of the Borno state government, Gov. Shettima said at the Government House, in Maiduguri.

The state government further said that 23 more names have just

been identified by parents, students and teachers of the Government secondary school, Chibok at a resumed identification exercise last night at the Government House; however the names of schoolgirls was not supplied as at press time. The state government added that the figures of those identified by their names were climbing, as the exercise continued.

Shettima had, on Monday, directed the Chairman of Chibok and other government officials to mass produce the video and play it before parents of the abducted girls, other students especially those who escaped from captivity, teachers and management of the school as well as other community members in Chibok.

After the exercise in Chibok, Governor Shettima directed for another round of verification exercise to be conducted at the Government House in order to cross-check findings so as not to mislead the public.

He said the names of the girls

are currently being compared with school records, as well as the names published some days back, to ensure accuracy.

Meanwhile, some parents of the over 200 abducted students yesterday identified the girls displayed in Monday's Boko Haram video as their daughters. The parents spoke to newsmen shortly after watching the video at the Government House, Maiduguri.

The parents and the other girls who escaped from the Boko Haram, were summoned to Government House, Maiduguri, to watch the video, with a view to find out if they can identify any of the hostages.

They spent over two hours in a closed-door meeting before reviewing the video, but the officials didn't brief journalists after watching the video.

Similarly, parents and the escapees were prevented from responding to enquiries made by reporters if they have indeed identified any of the abducted girls.

However, some parents who

spoke to newsmen on phone confirmed that they have recognised their daughters.

Mr. Lawan Zannah said in a phone interview ``I thank God that I saw my daughter, Aisha Zannah in the picture. They are our girls who were abducted one month ago.'' He urged security agents to work towards rescuing the girls safely. ``We want our girls to return home safely now that we know that they are still alive,' he said.

Another parent, Shettima Haruna, corroborated the claim, saying: ``All the girls shown in the video were the abducted GGSC girls.

Another parent, who spoke on anonymous condition, wondered how the girls were able to read in Arabic. ``The lady reciting the Quran is from Kubur Bula village, she had been a good Christian, but I wonder what they did to her. Her name is Rebecca but she looked like a true Muslim in the video', he said.

INEC ready for 2015 elections - Jega

By Ikechukwu Okaforadi

C

hairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Attahiru Jega has assured that the commission is fully prepared to conduct a free, fair and acceptable election, come 2015.

Speaking when he played host to the United States (US) UnderSecretary of State for Civilian Security, Democracy, and Human Rights, Sarah, Jega said INEC is now prepared technically and personnel wise for the forthcoming elections.

He also explained why the card readers will not be deployed in the Ekiti and Osun governor-

ship elections, saying the interest generated by both elections would not allow it to be used in the pilot scheme.

INEC boss said with all the reforms and innovations introduced by the commission, he was optimistic that the forthcoming 2015 election will better organized when compared to 2011.

"We are optimistic that technically INEC will organize a better, fairer and acceptable election come 2015", Jega said.

"We are not shying away from the fact that the commission had encountered some challenges in the recent elections", Jega said, adding that the commission has done a lot to correct such challenges encountered in the past.

According to him, "we have learnt from our past logistic challenges and we will ensure that they don't affect us in subsequent elections".

He further said that the commission is very confident that 2015 elections will be better than 2011, even as he told his guest that the commission has continued to engage all the stakeholders in the country's democratic process, as part of the efforts to ensure a better and acceptable elections come 2015.

He also announced that INEC will inaugurate the Committee on Voter Education to assist in enlightening the public.

He also noted that in the next three months, the commission

would have been done with Permanent Voter Cards (PVC) distribution, and commended US and other development partners for assisting the commission in turning the corner in electioneering process.

He noted that such assistance and support had been invaluable to the success recorded so far, even as he assured his audience that INEC will keep on improving on its performance.

Earlier, US Under-Secretary said her country is looking forward to next general elections in Nigeria.

She also commended the electoral body for the transformation it has carried out in the electioneering process.

PEOPLES DAILY, wednesDAY, may 14, 2014

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News

Police warn against extra-judicial killings

By Joy Baba

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eeply concerned about the increasing tendency by some citizens to resort to extra-judicial killings - Jungle Justice - against those suspected to have committed one crime or

US flying ‘manned’ missions to track down Nigeria girls

•As IGP tasks Zonal AIGs, CPs to protect citizens’ rights

another in Nigeria, the InspectorGeneral of Police, IGP MD Abubakar, yesterday warned citizens to desist from such reprehensible acts.

According to a press statement issued by the Police Force Public Relations Officer (PPRO), CSP Frank Mbah, the IGP noted that that every Nigerian citizen is entitled to the Fundamental Right of fair hearing, insisting that none is guilty except a law court of competent jurisdiction

expressly says so.

He, therefore, has directed Zonal AIGs, Command CPs and other field Commanders to take adequate measures to ensure that the rights of every Nigerian citizen, including those of suspected criminals, are protected. The IGP warns that any person found to be involved in any acts of impunity or jungle justice must bear the full wrath of the law as two wrongs cannot make a right.

Also, noting that the Force is

not opposed to citizens or members of Vigilante groups exercising their powers of arrest as private citizens, the IGP insists that such powers must be exercised within the confines of the Law. Therefore, all such persons arrested must be immediately handed over to the nearest Police Station within the shortest possible time.

The IGP, therefore, called on the social and critical mass, particularly the Human Rights Com-

L-R: Former Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health, Dr. Shehu Sule, Yobe state Commissioner of Health, Dr. Bello Kawuwa, Executive Director/Chief Executive Officer, National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), Dr. Ado Muhammad, and Director, NPHCDA Planning Research and Statistics, Dr. Abdullahi Mohammed, during the reviewing on the routine immunisation in Northern Nigeria, yesterday in Abuja.

Photo: Mahmud Isa

By Agiya Yakubu Yaki with agency report

T

he United States was Monday flying “manned” missions over Nigeria to track down more than 200 abducted schoolgirls, as experts pored over a new video seeking clues to where they are being held, the AFP reported yesterday.

“We have shared commercial satellite imagery with the Nigerians and are flying manned ISR (intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance) assets over Nigeria with the government’s permission,” a senior administration official said, asking not to be named.

It was not immediately clear what kinds of aircraft were being deployed, nor where they had come from. But a new video released by the Boko Haram group purportedly showing about 130 of the girls was being carefully studied by American experts in the hope it might yield vital clues as to where they are being held.

“Our intelligence experts are combing through every detail of the video for clues that might help ongoing efforts to secure the release of the girls,” State Department spokeswoman Jen Psaki said earlier Monday. “We have no reason to question its authenticity,” she added of the video.

A 30-strong US team arrived on the ground last week in Nigeria, to help growing efforts to find the girls, aged between 16 to 18, snatched from their boarding school in the north-east of the country, on April 14.

The White House said the team included five State Department officials, two strategic communications experts, a civilian security expert and a regional medical support officer.

Also on the manifest are 10 Defense Department planners already in Nigeria, seven extra military advisors from US Africa Command and four FBI officials expert in hostage negotiations.

“We are talking about helping the Nigerian government search an area that is roughly the size of New England,” White House spokesman Jay Carney said, referring to the region in the US northeast.

“So this is no small task. But we are certainly bringing resources to bear in our effort to assist the government.”

Psaki stressed the Nigerian authorities were “in the lead” during the investigation.

munity and Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) to live up to their responsibility of enlightening the public on the dangers and consequences associated with engaging in jungle justice.

While promising that the Police will continue to work with other relevant authorities in ensuring quick dispensation of justice at the Law Courts, the IGP implores citizens to repose confidence in the Police and the entire Justice System.

Opposition insults Jonathan for dearth of ideology, says PDP

By Lawrence Olaoye

T

he Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) yesterday alleged that members of the opposition party hurl insults at President Goodluck Jonathan because they lack identifiable ideology.

Speaking while receiving the party’s zonal publicity secretaries led by their chairman, Ali Odeifa, the PDP National Publicity Secretary, Chief Olisa Metuh, said the opposition leaders resort to hurling insults and abuses at the President and members of the PDP out of frustration.

He said the party’s statement alleging that the opposition were supporting the Boko Haram insurgencies in the country after the Nyanya Motor Park bombing made the opposition leaders to desist from politicizing the challenge of insecurity facing the country.

According to Metuh, uncomplimentary comments and statements emanating from the op-

position leaders embolden the sponsors of the insurgents who believe that they are serving the interest of their political masters.

He said “The fact that some of these insurgents have been financed by people who were encouraged by the hard stance, utterances, statements made by these opposition leaders; we don’t expect them to speak in pursuance of their personal interest” “We are happy today that they have chosen the path of wisdom to temper their voice, they have heeded our call. I think our statement was positive in the sense that they have moderated their views, utterances. We are happy we did that, the party stands by that statement and have had profound effect on the body polity,” he declared.

He added “The statement of the opposition always is definitely as ugly as their looks and their actions. It is a product of frustration, resentment against their

creator, because anybody that is happy with himself, a fulfilled human being will be cautious in his statements and the way he insults others”.

Metuh explained that the party has provided a level playing field for party members, stressing that the party believes that power belongs to the people. “Our mantra is that power to the people in a democratic setting, it is not one man that chooses his successor, or chose the people that will contest election” he added.

Speaking on the abduction of the Borno school girls, Metuh said, “Never in the history of this country have we had such challenge come at a very critical time of our development, we are saddened by the abduction of the Girls of Government Secondary School in Chibok”.

He added that the party will never play politics with human lives insisting that the government will work hard to ensure security of

lives and property.

While acknowledging that the party may have made mistakes in the past, he said, “Like in democratic setting, no one is perfect, the PDP is not perfect. Yes Nigerians expect us to be better than we are, but Nigerians truly know that our competition (opposition) is not an option” metuh added.

Earlier, the chairman of the forum zonal publicity secretaries of PDP and South-South zonal publicity secretary, Odeifa stated that the loyalty of the forum to President Jonathan, Adamu Mu’azu and the National Working Committee (NWC) of the party.

Odeifa applauded Jonathan’s effort on insecurity and his wisdom in accepting assistance from foreign countries.

The delegation included; Emmanuel Okpokpo (south-South), Al-Amin San (North East) Taofeeq Ganiyu (South West) and Suleman Mohammed (North Central).

One dies in Ogun auto crash, as traffic corps recovers N.7m From James Ogunnaike, Abeokuta

O

ne person was confirmed dead, while three others were critically injured in an accident which occurred at Kobape, along the Abeokuta - Siun -Sagamu expressway, yesterday afternoon.

The accident, which happened around 2. 40 p.m. involved a Silver coloured Golf car, with registration number (LAGOS) AKD 659 CB, which allegedly rammed

into a moving trailer from the rear.

The driver of the Golf car, whose identity was yet to be ascertained died on his way to the hospital, while the three other occupants of the vehicle were on danger list and were rushed to the State Hospital, Ijaye, Abeokuta, by officers of the State Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Corps (TRACE).

It was reliably gathered from the Head of the TRACE rescue team, Commander Ayodeji Ade-

koya who evacuated the dead and the victims from the wreckage of the Golf car that the driver of the car was suspected to have over sped and could not control the velocity of the car when he attempted to overtake the moving trailer.

He stated further that sum of N500, 000 was found in the pocket of one of the victims, while another N213, 440 hidden in a cellophane bag was recovered from the wreckage of the Golf car when searched.

While the initial sum of N200,

000 recovered from the accident car was handed over to police officers at the Motor Traffic Division (MTD), Adekoya said the sum of N500, 000 recovered from the pocket of one of the victims was handed over to the medical officers headed by one Dr. (Mrs.) Adigun at the State Hospital in Ijaye, where the victims were rushed for treatment by the TRACE officials.

The corpse of the dead driver of the Golf car has been deposited at the morgue of the same hospital.

PEOPLES DAILY, wednesDAY, may 14, 2014

News

PAGE 5

L-R: Chairman, House Ad-hoc Committee on Collapse Building, Hon. Yakubu Dogara, Deputy Leader, House of Representatives, Hon. Leo Ogor, and Minority Leader, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamelah, From Olanrewaju Lawal, Ilorin during the hearing on the composition Professor of Political Science and International Relations, and pigmentation Prof Hassan Salihu, has cauof cement (cement tioned the federal government in quality) with a view employing foreign intervention to to stem the serial combat the rising insurgency in the incident of building northern part of the country. collapse in the The university don, who stated country, yesterday this while delivering a paper at a at the National round-table on peace and security, Assembly, in held in honour of Governor Abdulfatah Ahmed of Kwara state, by the Abuja. state council of the Nigeria Union of

Photo: Mahmud Isa Journalists (NUJ), in Ilorin, said his reservation for such intervention by foreign countries was due to a possible backlash aftermath of the counter-terrorism campaign.

He said although the involvement of foreign option becomes necessary in view of the dreaded attacks emanating from the insurgents, but the consequence of such lies in the unity of the country if the battle is eventually won.

Besides, the don accused a the issues of counterterrorism, fraction of leaders for being beelections, and human rights.

Sewall’s visit, which includ- their families. She emphasized hind the militancy in the country.

The don, who alluded to a ed meetings with other senior the importance of a comprehensimilar aid by American governNigerian government officials, sive approach to “combatting vio- ment during Olusegun Obasanjo’s civil society, and key stake- lent extremism, building law en- administration, which led to a holders, comes as an interdis- forcement capability, protecting number of casualty in the army, ciplinary U.S. government ad- civilians, and respecting human warned against irrational decision visory team arrived in Nigeria rights.” on the part of government.

The Under Secretary further He said the intervention might to provide technical and investigatory advice on the rescue noted that a key focus of the U.S.- not also go down well with top hiof the more than 200 missing Nigerian bilateral relationship erarchy of the security formation.

“We are not against the foris combatting violent extremist girls. eign assistance but the problem is groups and building law enforceSewall underscored the US’ that the nation’s unity may have a commitment to supporting the ment capacity while protecting ci- problem. There is likelihood of revilians and strengthening respect Nigerian government’s efforts sentment from the military because to find more than 200 miss- for human rights. of a number of casualties among She also met with individuals them. ing girls who were kidnapped “You would recall that during a month ago in Chibok, Bor- and activists affected by the kidObasanjo’s administration, Victor no State, and return them to nappings while in Abuja.

Malu was a casualty when American government came up with their assistance. The question we need to ask is: “Can foreign intervention guarantee instability in availing the committee its financial functions, the FERMA manage- Nigeria?”.

Salihu also carpeted the govoperational mechanism, which they ment failed to respond to the letter.

The management also declined ernment on what he described as had earlier found weak and far from the federal government financial to respond to the second letter its tactless approach in arresting standard, the FERMA boss chose to dated April 29th which had May 2 the problem of insecurity, adding deadline for submission of respons- that the country was currently ignore them. facing national crisis.

He said that the committee had es, adding that the committee only He added that the government on April 25th written to the manage- received a belated and unsatisfac- has not been able to do a credible ment demanding explanation on 14 tory response on May 12, ten days threat analysis and challenged specific items including expenditure after the deadline expired. the government to take bold steps Taiwo Oladipo, who represent- by coming up with initiative that profile, contracts, records of sales of machinery, records of available ed the managing director, assured will solve the problem.

In his remark, the chairman equipment as well as internally gen- that the FERMA management erated revenue, banks records and would respond to the committee’s of the occasion, Professor Shehu Jimoh, described Nigeria as a several other financial transactions demands but declined to speak to plan-less nation drifting towards in accordance with their oversight the press. the future.

Boko Haram: University don cautions FG on foreign assistance

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Boko Haram: America’s help coming rather late – Minister From Ado Abubakar Musa, Jos and Hassan Haruna Ginsau

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he Minister of Foreign Affairs, Aminu Wali has yesterday said the assistance offered by the United State of America (USA), to search and rescue the abducted schoolgirls of government secondary school Chibok in Borno State, and to end terrorism in the country was too late.

The minister, who spoke on the Hausa Service of the BBC, monitored in Jos yesterday, said that the assistance offered by America and her allies should have been given before now,

adding that until the situation became very difficult to avert.

Wali said, “The Boko Haram insurgency began since 2008 and no country has assisted until now when the everything became worst and critical to handle. Nigeria spent many years trying to deal with insurgency but not successful.”

The Minister however said that although the help came late but they are happy.

Meanwhile, the United States under-Secretary of State for Civilian Security, Democracy, and Human Rights Sarah Sewall met with Aminu Wali, and Minister of Defence, Aliyu Gusau yesterday, to discuss

. . . As U.S UnderSecretary of State meets Foreign Affairs, Defence ministers

Senate committee issues FERMA ultimatum

By Patrick Andrew

T

he Senate Committee on Public Account has given issued the management of the Federal Road Management Agency (FERMA) seven-day ultimatum to appear before it or its Managing Director, Mr. Gabriel Amuchi risked legislative sanctions.

The committee, which was to hold a public hearing yesterday, frowned at the attitude of the FERMA management that did not turn up for the hearing, which the committee said was meant to oversight the financial performance and mechanism of the federal agency.

However, the committee claimed that the management neither responded to the specific areas of demanded for clarifications nor did the managing director deemed it fit to honour an invitation to attend the public hearing.

Instead, Mr. Amuchi opted to send the Director of Finance and Account, Mr Taiwo Oladipo, who was however not allowed to speak to the committee but was directed to inform the management that the committee would have no option but to impose legislative sanctions on both the management and the manag-

ing director for disregarding the summons of the senate.

Accordingly, the committee, headed by Senator Ahmed Lawan (Yobe North), gave the FERMA boss and his management team uptil Tuesday next week to respond to their demands failing which the committee threatens to write a report and recommend strong punitive sanctions against FERMA to the senate in plenary.

Senator Lawan regretted that despite repeated efforts to get management of the FERMA to respond to simple oversight functions by

By Joy Baba

T

he Chief of Defence Staff, Air Chief Marshal Alex Badeh has described the relationship between Nigeria and the United States as mutual and strategic.

He stated this while receiving in his office the Commander of United States African Command (USAFRICOM), Lieutenant General David Rodriguez at the Defence Headquarters on Tuesday.

A statement signed by the Director of Defence Information, Major General Chris Olukolade quoted the CDS saying the Nigeri-

Nigeria-US relations strategic- CDS an military has over time benefitted immensely from the bilateral relationship between the two countries particularly in the area of training and military hardware. He noted that Nigerian Navy for instance has received a number of operational equipment and support, as part of United States support to the Nigerian military in combating oil theft and other maritime threats.

On the activities of terrorists in Nigeria, the CDS welcomed the

international support for the counter insurgency operation, stressing that it will complement ongoing efforts by the Nigerian military to find and rescue the missing Chibok girls.

The statement further said Badeh revealed that the Nigerian military is already re-strategising its operational doctrines to match the emerging trend of asymmetrical warfare currently confronting the nation.

The Air Chief expressed appreciation to the United States on behalf of the Federal Government for responding positively to the call for assistance in the search and rescue of the abducted school girls.

Earlier in his remarks, Gen Rodriguez stated that he was at the Defence Headquarters to discuss modalities in furtherance of US support to Nigerian Military to put an end to insurgency in the country.

Peoples Daily, wednesDAY, may 14, 2014

PAGE 6

News

Nigerian Presidents Jonathan, N’guesso call for youths unconditional release of Chibok girls watch too much TV – Report

By Tobias Lengnan Dapam

P

N

igerian youths spend too much time watching television (TV), according a new report - the “2013 Nigerian Report Card on Physical Activity for Children and Youth” which focuses on physical activity as a major determinant of Non Communicable Diseases (NCDs) Modelled after the Canadian Report, the Nigerian Report Card showed that 90.9 percent of Nigerian children and youth in the urban and rural areas spend over three hours on screen time daily. Television viewing is 90.7 percent.

Presenting the Report to the media in Lagos, recently, Executive Director, the Nigerian Heart Foundation (NHF), Dr. Kingsley Akinroye, said consequences of the impact would be that many Nigerians will be at risk of NCDs, due to decreased physical activity, unhealthy dietary patterns and increased tobacco use among others.

Akinroye observed that NCDs are becoming increasingly significant causes of disability and premature death in developing countries like Nigeria and called for research on the evaluation of the implementation of the Nigerian policy on sports and youth development at all tiers of government.

Decrying lack of implementation of existing government policy on sporting activities in Nigerian schools, the Report recommended a policy of inculcating physical and health education activities in every school curriculum as a good way of teaching healthy living habits that would be carried into adulthood thereby preventing obesity and its consequences.

(NAN)

resident Goodluck Jonathan and Denis Sassou N’guesso of the Republic of Congo, yesterday, condemned the mass abduction of college girls from Chibok and demanded the unconditional liberation of the girls and all others being held against their will by Boko Haram.

They also called on African leaders, the African Union (AU) and its Peace and Security Council to intensify efforts aimed at the eradication of Boko Haram and other terrorist groups in the continent.

A statement issued yesterday, by the Special Adviser to the President Media & Publicity, Reuben Abati, indicated that the two

Presidents’ made the call in a communiqué issued at the end of President Jonathan’s visit to Oyo for consultations on regional security ahead of tomorrow’s meeting of the African Union’s Peace and Security Council in the Congolese town.

Expressing their full appreciation of the international community’s support for Nigeria’s efforts to locate and rescue the

Abducted girls: Tinubu, APC women say Nigeria lacks leadership

From Ayodele Samuel, Lagos

T

R-L: Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC), Mr. John Kennedy Opara, conferring with NCPC Federal Commissioner for South-South, Pastor Mike Abrakata, and NCPC Federal Commissioner for South-West, Deaconess Adefemi Taire, during the meeting of NCPC, yesterday in Abuja.

Photo: Justin Imo-Owo

Abducted girls: Don’t trade our girls for terrorists, NCPC tells FG

By Evelyn Okakwu

C

hairman of the Nigerian Christian Pilgrims Commission (NCPC), Most Reverend Nicholas Okoh, has said the Nigerian Government should not give in to the negotiating terms proposed by the Boko Haram Terrorist group.

Speaking yesterday at the second meeting of the year for the conference of States Pilgrims Welfare board, (SCPWB), Okoh

said: “Those girls that ware abducted are not terrorists. But the members of the terrorists group that ware arrested are terrorists who have taken away countless human lives without any clue as to what their reason is.

“They should not be traded for the men for any reason. Nigerians believe that this Boko Haram group should be tried.”

He noted that although the abduction of the Chibok girls was indeed a great tragedy, the greater

tragedy was the existence of the terrorist group in Nigeria.

Okoh, charged all state delegates to express love for themselves and for the country in this trying times.

Speaking earlier at the conference, the Executive Secretary of the Commission, Mr. John Kennedy Opara noted that “the Federal Government cannot negotiate with a set of people who remain faceless; yet, you cannot just send a video and expect government to negotiate based on that.”

Reps urge FERMA, Army to repair bridge linking Nigeria, Cameroon

By Umar Muhammad Puma

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orried by the economic implication to the people of GamborunNgala town in Borno state and the their Cameroonian counterpart, after an attack and bombing of the Gamborun- Ngala bridge linking Nigeria and Cameroun by the Boko Haram insurgent, the House of Representatives yesterday urged Federal Roads Maintainance Agency (FERMA), and the Nigerian army Engineering co, to urgent repair

abducted girls, President Jonathan and his Congolese counterpart urged the global community to remain united and steadfast in its rejection of all forms of terrorism.

They also welcomed the ceasefire agreement in South Sudan and urged both parties to the conflict to respect the commitments they made in Addis Ababa on May 9, 2014.

and fix the bridge.

This was sequel to a motion moved under the matters of urgent national importance by Rep Abdulrahman Terab (APC Borno), noting that while the country and the entire world is g r a p p lin g to t h e Ch ib o k abduction, Gamborun Ngala, a border community which serves as one of the commercial thriving in Borno east came under attack.

He recalled that on May 5, 2014, Boko Haram insurgents invaded the busy town in a broad day-light, killing over 300 people,

and burnt down the entire market including 50 trucks loaded with grains and other economic valuables, in addition to other smaller cars and valuables.

He revealed that this is the third attack on the Gamboru town by the Boko Haram, and that the affected communities have threaten to migrate to the neighboring communities in Cameroon, should the federal government fails to stop incessant attacks on their town and the mindless killings by the Boko Haram.

Adopting the motion, the House also called on the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), to immediately provide relief materials to the victims of the Gamboru arson, and also urged the federal government to increase military presence in Gamboru town and the neighboring towns to avoid further attack.

The motion was unanimously adopted and was referred to the committee on FERMA and the army for further legislative inputs.

housands of women of the All Progressive Congress (APC) and members of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC), Lagos State yesterday joined the league of protesters who have taken to the streets to protest the continuous abduction of the over 200female students of the Government Girls Secondary School, Chibok, Borno State on April 14th, 2014.

The protesters, led by wife of former Governor of Lagos State, Senator Oluremi Tinubu and the APC Women leader in Lagos, Mrs. Kemi Nelson, converged at the Archbishop Vinning Memorial Cathedral in Ikeja GRA to commence the protest.

In procession, the women marched from the take-off point, through Computer Village, Allen Avenue and terminated their protest at the State House, Alausa, office of the State Governor, Babatunde Fashola, where they delivered a position letter of the APC Women Wing for onward transmission to President Goodluck Jonathan.

The protesters, who were all dressed in red t-shirts with the inscription, ‘Bring Chibok Girls Back Now and Alive’, also chanted songs to urge the Federal Government to expedite action in rescuing the abducted girls.

Tinubu said the abduction of the girls has exposed the ineptitude of the government to tackle the many problems of insecurity and unemployment facing the nation.

According to her, “We thank God for the situation of Chibok girls; because if not for them, the insecurity problem we have in Nigeria would not have been globally addressed, we thank God for that.

“We are concerned because of all that is going on in the nation, we are glad that people are praying for the nation; enough of bloodshed and thank God this case has drawn a lot of attention to the things happening in this country”, Tinubu stated.

Receiving the protesters, Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr. Lateef Ibirogba, who received the protest letter on behalf of Governor Fashola Responding, however assured that the message of the group would be conveyed to President Goodluck Jonathan through Fashola.

PAGE 7

Peoples Daily, WEDNESday, may 14, 2014

News

Plateau NSCDC apprehends money counterfeiters, water pipeline vandals From Ado Abubakar Musa, Jos

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he Plateau State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), has yesterday paraded two persons alleged to been specialized in making counterfeit currency and one person suspected to be water pipelines vandal.

Accoding to the State Commandant of NSCDC, Vincent

Bature, the two suspects were arrested with fake currency amounting to N219, 000 in Kanam LGA of the state where one of the suspect was caught selling the fake currency to people in some villages in the state. and his arrest led to the arrest of his colleague.

Bature who also paraded a popular plumber in Jos, Dakurama, arrested for vandalizing water pipelines as well as diverting the

water to his house for commercial purposes and starving part of Jos metropolis with scarcity of water.

He added that the illegal act of Dankurama and his cohort had punctured many pipelines that led to the con termination of water and scarcity of water to many part of Jos city.

The commandant said that the duos were arrested last February and the currency

were forwarded to Central Bank for verification as the suspect release on administrative bail for the command to verify the genuineness of the currency and after the confirmation by Central Bank of Nigeria that the currency are fake they rearrested them, adding, “After investigation we will soon hand them over to the appropriate agency for proper prosecution”.

L-R: Staff Sergeant Kayode Ayobami of Directorate of Army Public Relations, headquarters, presenting a copy of the Soja Magazine to Niger state Governor, Dr. Mu’azu Babangida Aliyu, yesterday at the Government House, in Minna.

Court jails seven for drug dealing in Oyo

J

ustice Ayo Emmanuel of the Federal High Court, Adeoyo, Ibadan, on Tuesday sentenced seven men to various jail terms for unlawful dealing in Indian hemp.

The seven convicts who were sentenced in seven separate judgments, were Wale Bakare, Abdulahi Danbuzu, Taofeek Gbadero, Mustafa Bello, Emmanuel Alani, Rahaman Salami and Ismaila Akorede.

Mr. Ayokunle Morakinyo, counsel to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), said the convicts were arraigned by the Agency for unlawful dealing in Indian hemp.

He said that the convicts were separately picked up between January and April at different locations in Oyo State, adding that they were caught with the substances weighing between

1.4kg and 19kg.

Sentencing the accused person, the judge said they had earlier pleaded guilty to the charges preferred against them. ``The convicts shall in addition to their various jail terms, forfeit the money found on them at the time of their arrest. ``The money shall be paid into the Federation Account. ``You are all warned to desist

from further engaging in crime after your jail terms, for I shall not be lenient with you if you are brought before me again,’’ Emmanuel said.

The convicts bagged jail terms ranging from six months to two and half years.

He said that the offence contravened Section 11 (C) of the NDLEA Act, No. 30 Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004.

(NAN)

Highway robbery: Suspect pleads guilty in court

T

wenty-year-old Manu Buba on Tuesday pleaded guilty at the Iseyin Chief Magistrates’ Court, Oyo State, to a three-count charge of conspiracy, stealing and highway robbery.

Police prosecutor, Friday Sule, had earlier told the court that the accused committed the crime on April 4, at Alubata village on the Iseyin-Okeho road at about 5.00 p.m.

He said that Buba and others now at large conspired to rob innocent travellers on the road and dispossessed them of their possessions. ``Buba and others who are yet to be apprehended committed felony by robbing and snatching two motorcycles, and N14,000 cash from three different people. ``People in the area alerted the police of what was going on and our Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS), led by SP Suara Olaide, swung into action.

He said that the intervention of SARS led to the arrest of Buba, while others fled into the bush with bullet wounds, adding that the police were able to recover the items stolen from the travellers.

Sule put the total value of the items and cash recovered at N250, 000, adding that the police were doing their best to arrest other members of the gang.

He stated that the offences contravened Sections 516 and 402(A) of the Criminal Code Laws Vol. II, of Oyo State.

The accused, who had no legal representation, pleaded guilty to the three-count charge, and pleaded that the court should be lenient with him.

In her ruling, Chief Magistrate Abiola Richard, said further action on the case must await the advice of the Department of Public Prosecutions.

She, however, adjourned the case until June 5 for mention.

(NAN)

NDLEA nabs suspected drug trafficker with 3.87kg of methamphetamine in Lagos From Suleiman Idris, Lagos

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he National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has arrested one Odeyemi Ademola Ayodeji, 51, for attempting to smuggle 3.870kg of substances that tested positive for methamphetamine to Nairobi, Kenya.

The arrest took place at the international wing of the Murtala

Muhammed Airport, Lagos during outward screening of passengers on a Kenyan Airways flight.

Methamphetamine often called Ice or Meth is a crystallike powdered substance that sometimes comes in large rocklike chunks. It is odourless, bitter-tasting and dissolves easily in water or alcohol.

NDLEA Commander at the Lagos Airport, Hamza Umar

stated that the drug was found inside the luggage of the suspect.

“One Odeyemi Ademola Ayodeji was arrested with 3.870kg of methamphetamine. The drug was packed in white transparent polythene and hidden inside his bag containing soup ingredients like pepper, melon and crayfish” Hamza told reporter.

“I cannot sleep because of debts. I would have made a

profit of fifteen thousand dollars ($15,000) from selling the drug in Nairobi.

As a result of my condition, my senior wife has gone to live with her parents because of hardship. I intended paying my debt and starting a usiness with the 15,000 dollars. Kindly help me, I am married to two wives with three children” Odeyemi appealed.

NDLEA Chairman, Ahmadu Giade in his response called for stiffer punishment to deter people from drug trafficking.

“Getting money from drug trafficking is criminal and must be discouraged. We need stiffer punishment to deter people from drug trafficking. The pain of spending fifteen years in prison will prevent more people from getting involved in drug smuggling” Giade stated.

Peoples Daily, WEDNESday, may 14, 2014

PAGE 8

Confab: Poll shows Nigerians want recommendations subjected to referendum

By Patrick Andrew

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n opinion poll conducted by NOIPolls has revealed that 87 per cent of wants the recommendations of the National Conference subjected to a referendum.

NOIPolls, which is reputed for country-specific polling services in the West African region, conducted the exercise in partnership with Gallup Inc. of (USA).

According to the organization, 27 per cent of that segment was of the opinion that the conference will bring progress and development to Nigeria, 21 per cent believed it will bring unity while 19 per cent were optimistic that the outcome will bring peace to the country.

However, the 13 per cent that opposed the conference did so on the assumption that its recommendation would go the way of previous

recommendations which were not implemented and that it would be incapable of addressing the problems of the country.

The poll revealed that 79 per cent of the respondents would like the outcome of the conference to be subjected to a referendum.

Respondent suggested that the top three key stakeholders who should be part of the conference should be religious leaders (51%), traditional rulers (47%) and civil society organizations (37%).

The opinion poll was conducted between February 10 and 12, 2014. It involved telephone interviews of a random nationwide sample of over 1000 phone-owning Nigerians, aged between 18 years and above, representing the six geopolitical zones in the country. The result was released recently.

The organization indicated that “with a sample

of this size, we can say with 95 per cent confidence that the results obtained are statistically precise – within a range of plus or minus three per cent.”

According to the polls, “if the survey is conducted 100 times using the exact same procedures, the margin of error would include the “true value” in 95 out of 100 surveys”.

The result of the poll showed that in the North West region, 35 per cent of Nigerians were aware of the discussions to constitute the National Conference while 89 per cent were in support of the Conference as it was then proposed. 83 per cent and 90 per cent respectively in the North East were aware of the discussions and in fact supported the convening of the Conference.

In the North Central, 53 per cent were aware of discussions, 85 per cent supported the move for

Nigerians to sit together and address their concerns. In the South West 49 per cent were aware of discussions and 87 per cent were in support of convening the Conference.

No fewer than 53 per cent in the South East were aware

of the flow of discussions and 83 per cent supported the holding of the conference.

49 per cent in South South followed the discussions while 86 per cent supported the constitution and inauguration of a national dialogue.

L-R: Delegates of the National Conference, Professor Jerry Gana, and Senator Adefemi Kila, during the conference, Monday in Abuja.

Photo: Mahmud Isa

Fuel subsidy ineffective, should be removed- Aliero

By Hassan Haruna Ginsau

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L-R: Members, Committee on Political Parties and Electoral Matters, Malam Sani Zoro, Chief Olusegun Osoba, Senator Mohammed Kabir Jibril, at the ongoing National Conference, yesterday in Abuja.

Photo: Mahmud Isa

he chairman, committee on Public finance and revenue at the National conference, Adamu Aliero has said his committee is in full support of the removal of the fuel subsidy.

In a brief interview with our reporter, Aliero said his committee had discussed the need for the removal of this subsidy because currently “they did not see its use.”

He noted that the subsidy which was designed to help the masses was not impacting them.

“Those who are supposed to be benefiting from it are not. It has reached a point where petrol producing areas are buying petrol anywhere from N160- N180 per litre. In some parts of the North, it is sold for N140- N150 per litre, and it is the common man that is using his resources to buy petrol at this rate.

In places like Abuja, Lagos, and other big cities people even buy it for more than that. Therefore we are not in support of the continued subsidisation of petrol because there is a diversion from people that are supposed to benefit from it.

He noted that if the subsidy is removed, there will be an available N1.7 trillion every year, which the committee proposed should be used for development of infrastructure

such as construction of roads, railways, hospitals, universities, the dredging of the River Benue, solid mineral mining, amongst other developmental projects.

The committee also proposed that it shouldn’t be used in the way of recurrent expenditure, rather the money that is gotten from the removal should be solely used for capital expenditure.

Speaking on whether the removal would spark protests from Nigerians similar to those experienced in January 2013, Aliero said if people are properly enlightened on the issue, there will be no unrest regarding the removal.

“Since we cannot continue to use the money as it was being used in the past. It should be used for nation building, and the development of Nigeria.”

The committee also proposed that a committee be set up to ensure that any project been carried out using money that emanates from the removal of the subsidy is done properly and completed.

The NNPC restated its call for the removal of the subsidy last week when it met with the National conference’s committee on power, noting that the implementation of the fuel subsidy regime in the pricing template of petroleum products amounted to over N2 trillion drain on Nigeria’s resources.

Peoples Daily, WEDNESday, may 14, 2014

News

PAGE 9

Zamfara c’ttee on education submits report From Ibrahim Sidi Muh’d, Gusau

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committee set up by Governor Abdulaziz Yari Abubakar of Zamfara state under the leadership of Professor Tukur Adamu yesterday submitted its report recommending the total overhaul of the education sector in the state.

The committee which was set up to investigate and report to the state government, obstacles that constituted rough roads towards the development of secondary school education, had visited all the four zonal offices at Gusau, Anka, Talata Mafara and Kaura Namoda local governments.

The committee reported that, out of the total number of 191 public secondary schools across

the state, only 21 are operating as boarding schools and were absolutely in dearth of required facilities that would facilitate conducive atmosphere for both teaching and learning.

It further informed that, most of the schools hostels were not spacious enough to accommodate the number of students undergoing studies

which clearly indicate possiblity the high risk of health, adding that even toilets were absolutely dilapidated to the extent some have to be abandoned.

It has been recorded that most of the schools were suffering lack of water, the situation which expelled the students to spend hours supposed to be in classes in search of water outside the

schools premises in the course of which they could have contact with waterborne diseases.

In his response, Governor Yari has challenged that, huge amount of money were being pumped to ensure sound education, and was not expecting any report indicating lack of facilities in secondary schools as the main reason of down fall of

Wada considers complaints of Okun People in Kogi From Omale Adama Lokoja

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Senate urges FG to immortalise Justice Oputa

By Ikechukwu Okaforadi

S

enate has passed a resolution urging the federal government to consider measures towards immortalising the late Justice Chukwudifu Oputa, who died Sunday last week, at the age of ninety.

The Senate which observed a minute silence in honour of the late jurist, also passed a resolution to send a special Senate delegation to console the family of the late Oputa.

Following a motion in relation to the death of Justice Oputa, which was sponsored by the Senator representing Imo West on the platform of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Hope Uzodinma.

In the motion, Uzodinma observed that Oputa, in his life time, served Nigeria diligently in many capacities, even before independence in 1960.

He also noted that at the Supreme Court, Justice Oputa manifested his profound intellect for equity and justice, as showcased in his balanced judgements.

“He was a principal participant in the Golden Age of the Court when the Supreme Court earned a reputation for itself as a veritable citadel of adjudicatory excellence and integrity”, Uzodinma said.

education in the state.

He assured the implementation of all recommendations made by the committee, adding that the state government would do everything possible to ensure those that were sabotaging the efforts of the government must face wrath of the law.

L-R: Member, Committee on Economy, Trade and Investment, Mrs. Patricia Ogbonnaya, Chairman of the Committee, Hajiya Bola Shagaya, Acting CBN Governor, Mrs. Sarah Alade, members of the Committee, Mrs. Fati Eunice Ibrahim, and Mrs. Onikepo Akande, during a meeting with CBN Governor, at the National Conference, yesterday in Abuja.

Photo: Mahmud Isa

Nomination: Gov Nyako happy with court verdict From Umar Dankano, Yola

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damawa State Governor, Murtala Nyako, has expressed satisfaction with yesterday’s judgment of the Supreme Court, quashing the suit

by Dr Umar Ardo, challenging the validity of his nomination as the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) flag bearer in the 2012 gubernatorial election in the State.

While responding to the development, Nyako, applauded and described Apex court’s verdict as a good omen in the Judiciary.

Nyako, who spoke through his Director of Press and Public Affairs, Ahmad Sajoh said the development is a confirmation of the mandate given to his boss (Nyako) by the people of Adamawa state.

In a judgment, delivered by Justice Kumai Bayang Aka’ahs,

on behalf of the five Supreme Court Judges, who heard the case declared that “The appeal lacks merit and it is accordingly dismissed. Parties are to bear their respective costs”.

“This has vindicated the position of Governor Nyako since the beginning of the case, where he said the case lacks merit.

Now the Supreme Court had confirmed that, in commending the wisdom of the Learned Justices of the Supreme Court, His Excellency the Governor said the Nigerian Judiciary had once again proved their position as an impartial arbiter in the social process in the country.

“The Supreme Court has once again affirmed the integrity of the Nigerian judiciary which was manifest right from the lower courts.

“This much was expressed

in the Supreme Court Judgment when it observed that, “The lower court agreed with the stand taken by the trial court in holding that a candidate who did not participate in the selection/ nomination of a candidate to stand election cannot invoke the jurisdiction of the court over complaints which occurred prior to the holding of primaries,” the statement said.

It added that the governor equally appreciates Dr. Ardo for going through the courts in pursuit of what he believes is his democratic right, therefore calling on all patriotic sons and aaughters of the state to join hands in the process of developing the state.

However, all efforts to get Dr. Ardo’s response to the verdict proved abortive as his GSM lines were switched-off.

nine man panel headed by the deputy governor of Kogi state, Mr Yomi Awoniyi has been inaugurated by the state governor, Capt.

Idris Wada to look into the grouse of the Okun people of the state as epitomised in the complains of Okun Development Association when it visisted the governor recently with a litany of complaints.

The Association has complained bitterly of marginalisation, underdevelopment of a people from the western senatorial district of the state and deprivation among other lapses in the conduct of government business.

Governor Wada, in his inaugural speech assured the people of the state that his administration was committed to promotion of justice, equity and Fair Play in the distribution of dividends of democracy, state resources, political appointments and civil service.

The committee has to examine, review and articulate the distribution of amenities and infrastructure in the three Senatorial Districts of the state, look into the distribution of appointments both political and civil service in the areas of lopsidedness as well as distribution and allocation of staff cardes in all the tertiary institutions across the state as terms of reference.

The committee, which was given two weeks to complete its assignment has the state Deputy Governor as Chairman.

Other members of the committee include; Yahaya Agbenyo, Dr. Moses Atakpa, Joseph Daniel, Taliban Rajiv, Steven Olorunfemi, Steven Yakubu, Tunde Aroso yan and Ezikiel Obayemi, the Permanent Secretary Administration in the office of the state deputy governor will serve as secretary to the committee.

PAGE 10

Peoples Daily, WEDNESDAY, may 14, 2014

News

Benue women protest Chibok abduction From Uche Nnorom, Makurdi

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n organization known as the ‘Concerned Benue Women’, yesterday embarked on a peaceful demonstration to protest the abduction of over 200 schoolgirls of Government Secondary School, Chibok in Borno state, urging the Federal Government to ensure an immediate end to insurgency in the

country.

The women, who numbered over 200 carried placards, some of which read: ‘Bring back our girls’; ‘Secure our border’; ‘Benue Women want an end to insurgency’, gathered at Nyiman layout, a suburb in Makurdi, the state capital. They offered fervent prayers, asking God to intervene and cause the release of the abducted girls by the insurgents.

The group also prayed for general insecurity, leadership tussle, the frequent attacks by suspected herdsmen and the epileptic power supply in the entire nation.

Speaking to newsmen, coordinator of the group, Mrs. Dorcas Ukpe said they were seriously saddened by the criminal act being perpetrated by members of the terrorist group, Boko Haram, stating that their peaceful

protest was aimed at seeking divine intervention into the issue.

Ukpe, who is Benue state Director-General of National Planning Commission, expressed confidence that international intervention that will lead to the rescue of the abducted girls, while urging the federal government to intensify adequate security at the borders.

Journalists in Nasarawa boycott police events over colleague’s arrest From Ali Abare Abubakar, Lafia

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embers of the Nasarawa state chapter of the correspondents’ chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) have resolved to boycott activities of the state Police Command over the detention of a Daily Trust reporter.

The chapel arrived at the decision on Monday, at the end if its emergency congress, which held at the Laura Plaza secretariat of the union.

In a communiqué, issued at the end of the congress, signed

by Suleiman Abubakar and Isaac Okpoju, chairman and secretary respectively, the chapel maintained that it will continue to boycott police activities in the state until the command writes an individual apology to Hir Joseph, the journalist detained as well as the mother union, the NUJ. It regretted that the Daily Trust reporter was wrongly detained while going about his constitutional responsibility, with the action by the police violating his individual human right.

Explaining further, Hir alleged he was detained by the police over his refusal to disclose his police sources, a situation, he said, infuriated his interrogators, leading to his being put into a cell among hardened criminals at the state headquarters of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID).

Hir was variously detained for nine hours, starting from last Friday, after he wrote a story alleging policewomen taking part in the ‘SaveOurGirls’ protest, organised by women’s groups in Lafia.

The reporter was eventually charged to court and was granted bail, with June 19 slated for hearing.

Edo state Governor, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole (right), briefing journalists on the state of insecurity in the country, after his meeting with President Goodluck Jonathan, yesterday at the State House, in Abuja.

Photo: Joe Oroye

SEMA distributes relief items to victims of fire disaster in Bauchi From Ahmed Kaigama, Bauchi

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a u c h i s t a t e E m e rg e n c y Management Agency (SEMA) has donated relief materials to victims of fire disaster in Alkaleri local government area of Bauchi state.

While distributing the items to the beneficiaries, the Caretaker Committee Chairman, Mr. Yohana Usman, said that SEMA was concerned over the wave of fire incidences in the state and had mobilized stakeholders and volunteers The items distributed include roofing nails, bags of cement and 15 bags of rice.

According to him, the massive fire incidents occured in markets, houses and bushes due to indiscriminate storage of inflammable materials and bush burning.

He warned the residents of the area to always be cautious with fire when cooking and using electrical appliances, in order to avoid a reoccurrence of such tragedy.

Yohana said: “There is great intensity of heat this time. The weather is hotter than usual. And you know, we have three elements that constitute fire, which are oxygen, combustion and heat.

“During the wet season, we

do not have heat. As such, there are limited cases of inferno.

But because we have the three elements at the same time, there is usually friction, which results to fire.

While calling on the residents in the area to take cautious measures that will prevent fire incidences, he recommended proper ventilation at homes and market places as panacea.

He advised the beneficiaries to make judicious use of the items, pointing out that it was part of the responsibilities of the government to assist its citizens when the need arises.

Kebbi CP demands logistics for sub-standard stations From Ahmed Idris, Birnin Kebbi

T

he Kebbi state Commissioner of Police, Benjamin Uche Onwuka, has made an urgent appeal to the Inspector-General of Police and Kebbi state government for logistics for sub-standard stations in the command.

He made this appeal at the state command yesterday, while addressing the officers and men, when receiving the Assistant

Inspector-General of Police in-charge of Zone 10, lamenting over lack of patrol vehicles and other logistic in its command.

Benjamin further explained that the command has 4425 officers and men with sub-standard stations across the 21 local governments, while commending the people of state for maintained low crime rate. ‘’Kebbi is calm and peaceful; crime wave is generally low compared to other state of the Federation, case

of homicide are more pronounced, while armed robbery are sometimes recorded, especially in the division along our borders with Niger and Benin Republic’’ he said.

The CP, therefore, said that on May 4, 2014 eight locally-made pistols were recovered by officers the command by the roadside in a nylon bag at Kamba Police Division, while the investigation is on-going.

Responding, the AIG in charge of Zone 10, Bala Hassan thanked

the CP for his efforts in maintaining the state’s low crime rate and assured them that he would convey the message to the Kebbi state government and AIG Abuja for their request, most especially on the issue of logistic and sub- standard stations in the state.

He then called on the officers and men to avoid and stop collecting bribery describing it as corruption, which cannot promote the image of command.

N23bn bond: Kwara govt to spend N7bn on Ilorin water project From Olanrewaju Lawal, Ilorin

T

he Kwara state government has confirmed that it would spend N7 billion out of N23 billion bond being sought from the Nigerian stock Exchange (NSE), to complete the on-going Ilorin water reticulation project.

The government also disclosed that N5.4 billion of the bond, in addition with N2.383 billion internal fund, will be expended on the construction of KishiKiama Federal Government road, while education and new projects embarked upon by present administration would be catered for.

Addressing journalists at a press conference yesterday, in Ilorin, the Commissioners for Works and Transport, Finance, Dr. Amuda Kaninke and Eng. Demola Banu, alongside the Senior Special Adviser (SSA) to Governor on Investment, Mr. Abayomi Ogunsola said the state government is running a transparent administration and would not go outside the approval of NSE. Speaking on the project, SSA Investment, Mr. Ogunsola said the project, which had commenced from the immediate past administration under Dr. Bukola Saraki, added that N1.2billion had been expended from the previous bond of N17 billion sought by Saraki’s administration, while the remaining N5.7billion will be deducted from the new bond to complete the project.

He explained that the NSE would never lend any state government bond if it realised that such government lacks the capacity to repay it.

The Commissioner for Works and Transport, Dr. Kaninke disclosed that the Kishi-Kiama road, which is a Federal Government road, when completed, will serve about 223,000 people living in 30 communities in the area.

In his finance analysis, the Commissioner for Finance, Eng. Demola Banu disclosed that the N17 billion sought by Dr Bukola Saraki administration will be fully repaid on first week of August,2014, while the N23 billion bond on processing at the security market will be repaid within a period of seven years.

Banu said the state government will be making N500 million saving on every month from the N23 billion bond repayments, stressing that NSE had verified all projects designed to be executed with the bond and government would not go outside those projects.

PEOPLES DAILY, WednesDAY, may 14, 2014

Page 11

Money Sense

What you should consider before buying a car

B

uying your first car is a big financial commitment. It is important to carefully consider how much you can afford to pay for the car.

Additionally, you need to look at how the value of your car will change over time. Here are four basic things to consider; they will help you avoid making mistakes when you buy a car.

Your options may be different if you do not qualify for a car loan.

How much do you have to spend on a car?

There are so many creative ways

Money Tip:

to finance a car that you may fool yourself into thinking that you can afford to buy a more expensive car then you should.

One basic rule of thumb is that you should finance your car for a three year term. If you cannot afford the payment that accompanies this amount, then you cannot afford the car. Your job situation will change, but should likely remain stable for around three years. Additionally you should avoid trading in your car and rolling the old loan into a new one.

There are some jobs that do require luxury cars, if yours does not steer away from luxury cars until you can pay for them in cash. Additionally, do you need the SUV or will a small compact car suit your needs just as well?

If you are a camper or haul stuff around for presentations, then the SUV would be the right choice for you. The smaller your car the more you will save on fuel money and other costs. Your first car does not need to be your dream car.

What type of car do you need?

Should I buy new or used car?

It may be difficult to choose between a new and used car.

When you buy a new car you immediately N320,000 to N480,000. The car depreciates that much once you drive off of the lot. If you can afford to lose that much money, go ahead and buy new. If you buy a car between three and five years old you will avoid losing much in depreciation of value. If you are worried about buying a used car you can find cars with warranties available or cars that are certified by the dealers or makers of the car. One example of this is a certified pre-owned

Lexus.

Should I ever lease a car?

No. You should never lease a car. It is simply throwing money out of the window. If you decide to purchase the car at the end of the lease, you will end up spending more money than if you had purchased it originally.

Additionally it is difficult to avoid the over mileage fees.

If you cannot afford the car payments on the car you want, then change your expectations.

You may buy an older car to drive while you save up for your dream car.

Y

ou should avoid buying a new car. You lose money the minute that you drive a new car home. A car is a depreciating asset, which means it decreases in value over time. The biggest amount of depreciation takes place in the first two or three years of a car’s life.

By buying a two or three year old car you will avoid losing as much money.

You can save money by selling your car yourself instead of trading it in. By selling directly to a person you will get more than you would from a dealer. Since you cut out the dealer, the buyer will pay less and you will both benefit from the situation. Dealers offer a higher initial price to cover the costs of the car that they are taking as a trade in.

Do not become upside down on your car. This happens when you roll your previous balance from your trade in onto your new car loan. If you tried to sell it you could not pay off the loan with the sale of the car. Additionally if your car was totaled or stolen, the check from the insurance would not pay off the amount of the loan.

Next time you buy a car, save up and pay for the car with cash. It will free up your income since you will no longer have a monthly payment. Additionally you will be able to save money on interest. You will never have to worry about making a car payment again.

Quote There is some magic in wealth, which can thus make persons pay their court to it, when it does not even benefit them.

How strange it is, that a fool or knave, with riches, should be treated with more respect by the world, than a good man, or a wise man in poverty – Ann Radcliffe

…and how to buy your first car

W

hen you shop for a car you look at several different dealers, makes and models. It is just as important to shop for a car loan. You can often find a better interest rate through your local bank or credit union than you would find with dealer financing. Additionally if you are not financing through the dealer, you may have more negotiating power to lower the amount that your car costs.

The first thing you should do is determine how much you want to borrow. This includes deciding what type of car you want, and the average price for the car. Additionally, you should determine how much you can afford. A good amount is what you can easily

pay over a three year period.

You should also look at your budget and determine the available amount that you have to pay. It is important to realize your budget, because it can help you avoid some of the mistakes people make when buying a car.

Next, you can begin looking for a loan. Many lenders will not guarantee a rate until you sign the papers, but they will give you preapproval for a loan amount and the current rate. You should begin by contacting your bank. If you are eligible for a credit union, you should check there as well.

Be sure to ask about automatic payments and lower interest rates. Most banks will lower your payments if you set up automatic draft.

You will need to find a car.

You can look at dealers, but do not be afraid to look in the classifieds and other online sources. You can find some great deals through these sources. You should always have your car inspected by a mechanic you trust before purchasing it. A good mechanic can tell if the car has been in an accident or if there are any other major problems with the vehicle. You should understand the differences between buying a new and used car.

Once you have picked out the car and negotiated the price, you will need to pay for your car. You can contact your bank with the final details.

Generally they will need the title or vehicle identification

number to process the loan.

Additionally, you will need to give them the title once you obtain it from the car’s previous owner.

Once you own the car you will need to get a new title and tags (license plates) for your car.

You can do this at your local VIO office. Most cities have a VIO for driver’s licenses and a different office for titles and tags. If you have a loan on the car, then the VIO will send the new title directly to the bank.

The bank will give you a form to take to the VIO with the new title. A car dealer may help you with this as well. You will not be allowed to register your car until you have found and purchased car insurance. You will need to take the proof of insurance with you to the VIO.

PAGE 12

PEOPLES DAILY, wednesDAY, may 14, 2014

EDITORIAL

rance has offered to host an African security summit to focus on the Boko Haram insurgency in Nigeria. Our neighbours in the Lake Chad Commission – Niger, Chad and Cameroun – will be the other African participants. From Europe will be the host, the European Union and the United Kingdom. From the Americas will be the United States.

French President, Mr. Francois Hollande, spoke to the BBC about the summit while on a visit to Azerbaijan on Sunday. He said he had mentioned the idea to Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan in a telephone conversation and that if the Nigerian leader found it agreeable the meeting should kick off this Saturday.“I suggested, with Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan, a meeting of Nigeria’s neighbouring countries…If the countries agree, it should take place next Saturday.” He did not say whether President Jonathan was enthusiastic about his suggestion. And no word as yet has come from his office.

It is recalled that France is one of several countries that in the last one week have pledged assistance to Nigeria in the search for over 200 schoolgirls abducted from their school at Chibok in Borno state by Boko Haram since April 15.

Earlier this week the sect released a video in which it claimed responsibility for the

abductions and threatened to sell them into slavery. And on Monday, it released another video, this time, of some of the girls in hijab and seated in the sand. The US, Canada, UK and China have also joined in the international search for the missing girls. This international solidarity against

“

F

Boko Haram: French offer tempting but…

Though the French suggestion of an African summit on Boko Haram is welcome, it should hold not too far from the countries in the eye of the storm. the sect has been galvanized by a viral hashtag BringBackOurGirls campaign involving several world presidents and their spouses. On Saturday, President Barack Obama surrendered his weekly weekend address to the American people to his wife Michelle who used it to launch a global campaign to free the Nigerian schoolgirls.

We thank those world leaders who have stepped up to the plate at a time when our government has been hopelessly clueless as to what to do to free the girls.

OUR MISSION “To be the market place of ideas and the leading player in the industry by putting the people first, upholding the truth, maintaining the highest professional and ethical standards while delivering value to our stakeholders”

After three weeks without any concrete plan by the Jonathan presidency for the girls’ rescue, former Republican presidential candidate, Senator George McCain, urged President Obama to seize the initiative since there did not appear to be a government in Nigeria.

Typically cynical of American politicians, but McCain was right this time because if there were a government, it failed to act when it was expected to.

We welcome the decision of those sympathetic governments to limit their assistance to the involvement of technical experts in intelligence gathering, satellite imaging and hostage negotiaton. There will be no troop deployment on the ground because it is a sensitive issue for both countries offering help and Nigeria that needs it. It is for this same reason that we say, though the French suggestion of an African summit on Boko Haram is welcome, it should hold not too far from the countries in the eye of the storm. In other words, it should be strictly a West African affair, with France and the other western countries coming in as observers/advisers.

There is already a structure on the ground in the form of the Lake Chad Commission comprising Nigeria, Chad, Niger and Cameroun. The summit can hold in any of these countries. It is they that know where the shoe pinches.

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PEOPLES DAILY, wednesday, May 14, 2014

PAGE 13

Opinion

After hosting the world what next?

By Boniface Chizea

I

t is now a matter for the records that Nigeria, for the first time, played host to the world under the platform of the World Economic Forum for Africa. South Africa has had the single honor of doing so on several occasions now; in fact some accounts indicate that it had played host to this Forum eleven times now. First of all we congratulate the Government and people of Nigeria for a very successful outing against the background of the fear occasioned by the senseless and murderous activities of Boko Haram (western Education is sinful) a militant and terrorist Islamic group founded in the year 2002 by Mohammed Yusuf that seeks the introduction of ‘pure’ Islam in the country within the context of Sharia jurisprudence.

It was obvious that the terrorist attacks were orchestrated as the hosting of the Forum approached with a view to stopping it. After two years during which there was a lull there were suddenly two deadly bomb explosions Nyanya, a suburb of Abuja where such incidents have not been experienced before.

The first intimation of the looming tragedy was when it was reported that an attempt was made by the Sect to release some of its members held in; of all places in the guard room of Department of State Security in Abuja. In point of fact some

people have also raised issues regarding the morality of hosting the world when the country is facing the challenge of having to find the kidnapped girls. But besides the reputational damage withdrawing from hosting would have cost the country; as it transpired the actually going along with this hosting it is expected might fortuitously fast track the finding of the girls and commence the numbering of the days to the termination of the murderous activities of the deadly Sect. Therefore we must give glory to God that the evil intentions of the insurgents were not realized.

The hosting of the WEF took place under very difficult and trying circumstances for the country. The country was faced with the unprecedented situation whereby mysteriously over 200 school girls were abducted from their dormitory at night by the dreaded Boko Haram Sect.

The mystery surrounding this development is that it is difficult to envisage how such large number of girls could be taken from their school considering the share difficulties that would be encountered in putting together the logistics that would be required. Not surprisingly there have been a number of conspiracy theories making the rounds.

The northern chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria made it a point to accuse the Governor of Bornu State, Kashim Shettima, of complicity in this matter

demanding to know how come since the incident the Governor who has immediate and direct responsibility has not found it expedient to take any positive steps in attempting to contribute to the solution of the unfortunate incident and how it happened that none of the principal officers at the School had their child involved in this kidnap saga. And that this suspicion is exacerbated because this is an area dominated by Christians. This suspicion led to the request that the pictures of the girls involved should be released and that WAEC should also come forward to authenticate their bona fides as registered candidates for the examinations.

This goes to demonstrate to what extent politics has eaten into the body fabric of this country but it is reassuring that somehow good counsel prevailed and two principal members of the opposition in the persons of former President Buhari and APC leader Ahmed Tinubu separately issued published statements asking for all to come together irrespective of whatever political differences there might be to fight and find a solution to this assault against our common humanity. Buhari pointedly made the point that this was not the time to play politics but for all to join hands to find the missing girls while condemning in unmistaken terms the deadly activities of Boko Haram.

The world really rallied round Nigeria in this moment

of her need. The feeling of outrage and sympathy was unprecedented and came from across the globe. Mitchell Obama used the opportunity of the US Presidential weekly national address to add her voice by expressing the views that the mass kidnap of Nigerian school girls fits neatly into a pattern of threats and intimidation facing girls around the world who are intent on pursuing their education. Malala the Afganistan teenager that was shot on the head to prematurely terminate her agitation for girl child education but miraculously survived and now a recognized international campaigner for girl child education also added her voice in condemnation and prayer for the early release of the kidnapped girls amongst many other numerous celebrities.

But the fact remains that Boko Haram has shot itself on the foot through this abduction which has generated such massive rage as it will no longer be business as usual for the deadly Sect.

The WEF on Africa, by all counts, was a roaring success.

There were over one thousand participants including 13 heads of governments in spite of the Boko Haram threat; a level of participation for which President Jonathan is on record as having thanked the international community for the vote of confidence and which has led to the defeat of the obvious evil intentions of Boko Haram to stop the Forum from holding.

There were 48,000 articles on

the Forum compared to 16,000 which were published the last time the Forum held in South Africa. A whopping amount of 68 billion dollars was pooled toward investments based on various initiatives in the country.

There was Grow Africa Initiative, initiatives related to health, agriculture, small and medium scale enterprises amongst others but particularly the ‘Safe Schools Initiative’ which was masterminded

by Gordon Brown; a former British Prime Minister for which the Nigerian Business Community pledged the sum of $ 10 million which the Nigerian Government has matched with the counterpart funding of also $ 10 million with Gordon Brown promising to mobilize the international community to contribute. This particular initiative is aimed at making schools in North Eastern part of Nigeria safe for pupils to attend.

As we add up the gains of the Forum we must remember the fact that Nigeria dominated the airwaves of international media during this period which is a contribution difficult to quantify in monetary terms. We hope that we would run with the various initiatives to facilitate the rapid growth and development of the Nigerian economy and further give fillip to the President’s transformation agenda.

Dr Boniface Chizea is principal consultant at BIC Consultancy Services, Lagos

Change versus sentimentalism

By Muhammad Al-Ameen

Y

obe south senatorial district, otherwise known as Zone ‘B’, is undoubtedly Yobe state’s political hot bed. It is also the commercial nerve of the state, accommodating people of various backgrounds and nationalities.

The diverse ethno-cultural and geo-political differences in the zone, have made political tolerance and development quite difficult and challenging.

It has become a norm that every political movement is defined along ethno- cultural sentiment. The zone proudly parades seasoned politicians, administrators, retired civil servants, army generals and technocrats in the likes of Alhaji Adamu Ciroma, Alhaji Adamu Fika, Alhaji Adamu Waziri, Senator Alkali Abdulkadir Jajere, Alhaji Saleh Bagare, Engineer Abubakar D. Aliyu, Sen. Adamu Talba, Hon. Ismaila Yerima Gudi, Gen. Abubakar Waziri (rtd), Air Cmdr Ibrahim Alkali (rtd), Brig. Gen. Bomoi (rtd), Dr. Ali Adamu, Alhaji Ibrahim Talba etc. There are

also cultural and opinion leaders like Alhaji Musa Lawan, Alhaji Idrissa Madaki and Alhaji Muhammadu Guza who wield a lot of influence on their ethnic nationalities.

Unfortunately, the diversity rather than playing the role of a unifying factor, suppressed socio-political development and, created political distrust and intolerance in spite of the advantages of population and growing economy enjoyed by the zone. This also created fear and suspicion such that the best could not be explored and exploited for the good of the zone, the state and country.

This distrust and intolerance became a source of concern to some of the political and opinion leaders. To others however, the differences are irreconcilable and irresolvable with no end in sight and thus, exploit the differences for personal political and economic benefits.

A new emerging group under Senator Abdulkadir Alkali Jajere, who represents the zone in the national assembly, are optimistic that there are existing windows of opportunities to

build new relationships based on Confidence, tolerance and prosperity. The group had in the last four years advocated the doctrine of collectivism against individualism thereby making youth to appreciate one another irrespective of the parochial sentiments used in turning the zone into shreds.

A new initiative of open and collective participation of youth in the affairs of the zone has created transparency and, eroding the fear of marginalization and suspicion of one another. The success of this new approach to tolerance can be measured in the political activities of the ruling party in the state, the All Progressives Congress (APC) membership registration exercise and, the ward and local government congresses which produced leaders through consensus.

Unlike what was obtained in the past, these exercises to the admiration of parents and all peace loving people of the zone were carried out without violence. This is evident of a growing tolerance and trust among youth who represent the

future of the zone. The deliberate youth empowerment scheme which does not discriminate along political party loyalty, religious divide and ethnic sentiments, has brought youth of different backgrounds together and, see Jajere as a rallying point of a new hope. With the increased awareness, it is old fashioned and amounts to political suicide for any politician to contemplate using ethnicity in the 2015 elections because, the people now appreciate individual potentials and commitment to a collective cause.

Since the attack on the famous Potiskum international cattle market in 2012, in which over 50 people were killed, with hundreds of livestock and vehicles lost, the business community irrespective of political and ethnic differences rallied around senator Jajere to fight the common problem and, to seek federal intervention. It is gratifying that the agenda of unity and tolerance championed be the law maker is a landmark foundation to building a sustainable unity, tolerance and trust in the zone which should

be supported, encouraged and promoted for the interest of the people.

It is a collective responsibility to build a legacy of unity, justice and equality in the zone so that it may prosper. There is yet another opportunity staring at the elites to support the Jajere initiative of trust and tolerance for you to be remembered on the good side of history. The joy of every true democrat is to see positive change in the lives of his people. It does not matter who takes the credit. There is indeed hope for change against the old order of primordial and parochial sentiments in the zone.

The new approach to breaking the jinx of political intolerance and mistrust will no doubt place the zone on a new page of political and social prosperity.

It is indeed a new beginning to political, social and economic prosperity in Yobe south. We have a responsibility to empower our present to provide hope for our future.

Muhammad AlAmeen can be reached on muhammedalameen437@ gmail.com

PEOPLES DAILY, wednesday, MAy 14 , 2014

PAGE 14

Opinion What I learnt from Awolowo

By David Iornem

L

ast week, I was reading Obafemi Awolowo’s book entitled “My Early Life” and came across a passage that reconfirmed a philosophy that I have tried to practice. But the way Chief Awolowo brought home the meaning of that philosophy is so dramatically striking that it gave me greater insight into the matter. I wish to share this insight with readers in the hope that they too will learn from this great Master and sage, called Awolowo. I reproduce Chief Obafemi Awolowo’s words here for your reading pleasure and education.

“There were two books which helped me to evolve a philosophy of life to which, with some modifications which my own experiences dictate, I still cling. The first book was “The Human Machine,” which was a free gift to anyone who took a correspondence course with Bennett College, Sheffield.

(Readers may wish to know that Chief Awolowo never went to any university. His two degrees – Bachelors of Commerce and Bachelors of Laws were studied

privately on his own just like Professor Chike Obi who also studied at home for his Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees in Mathematics).

The book was a collection of terse, powerful articles, loaded with the practical and well-tested doctrines of applied

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psychology. These articles had been previously published under the serial title The Human Machine in the wellknown weekly journal, John Bull.

The second book was written, if I remember rightly, by an American author, and its title was It’s Up To You. The philosophy of the latter book is very simple but also very true and fundamental. I will state it in a nutshell; and here I am speaking from memory as I no longer have the book. Take a jar; put in it small beans as well as big beans, making sure that

each of the big beans is heavier in weight than each of the small beans. Put the big beans at the bottom of the jar and the small beans at the top; shake the jar and, behold! the small beans rattle to the bottom and the big beans shake to the top. Repeat the process as often as you wish, and the result will be the same.

Now, the world is like a mighty jar, and all of us in it, in our different theatres of operation, are like beans with varying sizes and weights. In normal

circumstances, each of us is where he is because of his size and weight.

By means of favouritism and nepotism, or of some other deliberate and iniquitous tinkering with the contents of the jar, some beans which are

small in size and weight may get to the top and stay there for a time, but they are sure to rattle to the bottom sooner or later. Said the author in words, which I vividly remember: “Nobody can fool the jar of life” The sine qua non for anyone who wants to get to the top, therefore, is to increase his size and weight in his particular calling, that is, mentally, professionally, morally and spiritually. Getting to the top, is one thing and remaining there is another. To maintain your

place at the top you must make sure that you do not at any time shrink in size or lose in weight.

But evaporation as well as wear and tear take place all the time; and unless these are constantly replaced, the man who gets to the top by dint of his own specific size and weight is also sure to rattle. I am a firm believer in this philosophy. It only remains for me to add that I also believe that the essence of this philosophy is applicable to political or economic organization as it is to an individual.”

I have seen proof of this passage in the life of many persons. You may steal today and think you have succeeded.

You may rig an election, or even shoot opponents and take away ballot boxes containing votes and forcibly declare yourself or criminal associates as authentic winners. You may cheat at the exam and think you have succeeded. But don’t fool yourself.

When the time of reckoning comes, the one who worked hard is he who will remain someone to reckon with. The words of elders are, indeed, the words of wisdom.

David Iornem via www. iornem.com

Ridding Abuja of harbingers of death

By Ayuba Kaura

I

f anyone had told the average Abuja resident that a day would come when the Boko Haram insurgents would spread their murderous tentacles to the nation’s capital city, such a person would have been told to go tell it to the marines. Because when the insurgency started on a low note in the north-eastern state of Borno some five years ago, residents of Abuja and other parts of Nigeria simply shrugged their shoulders, believing that it was ‘’their problem’’, not that of the whole country. With this mindset, everybody went to sleep and allowed the problem to balloon out of control.

And that is what has led us to where we are today in Abuja, with residents shivering with fear from the devastating effects of the incessant attacks from these harbingers of death. The situation has now become so bad that some people are even thinking of relocating from Abuja to either their villages or other parts of Nigeria. From the attacks on Suleja and St Theresa’s Catholic Church, Madala, both sprawling neighboring communities in Niger state, the gangsters have hit several times at the heart of Abuja namely: United Nations Building; Police Force Headquarters; ThisDay office and the recent twin attacks at Nyanya.

These unfortunate developments have left Nigerians in a state of utter shock and suspended animation; if Abuja, the seat of

the Federal Government could be so easily penetrated with reckless impunity, then nowhere is safe anymore?

In the face of this obvious daunting challenges confronting Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has remained unwavering in its determination nay commitment to find lasting solutions to this issue of insecurity that has put virtually all residents on edge.

To this effect, immediately after the Monday, April 14 attack on Nyanya, the Administration promptly constituted a special committee vested with the responsibility of rebuilding and reconstructing the Nyanya bus station.

And while the committee was quietly carrying out its assignment, the insurgents executed another murderous attack, prompting the FCT Minister, Senator Bala Mohammed to announce the resolution of the government to relocate the Nyanya park to a reasonable distance from the expressway, as a way of solving the perennial traffic gridlock at the Nyanya border area of the Keffi-Nyanya-Abuja express road, just as he also directed that all buildings, shops and business premises located along the road corridor in the area should be demolished immediately in the overriding public interest. To further beef up security around the nation’s capital city, the FCTA has reportedly designated some boundary towns within the

Maraba-Masaka axis of Nasarawa State and Suleja area of Niger State as veritable breeding grounds for terrorists; this is with the sole purpose of directing special security attention to those areas.

The FCT Administration have concluded plans to install bomb detectors in all mass transit buses in the city, while efforts have been intensified in the area of massive patrol. Judging from the way and manner the insurgents have carried out their activities in Abuja so far, it has become highly imperative for all hands to be on deck in order to rein in the rampaging monster that has made life hellish for all peaceloving residents of the city. For as it is often said in local parlance, if a handshake goes beyond the elbows, then it is a warning signal that danger is in the offing.

While the FCTA is working round the clock to ensure that the menace of incessant bombing is checkmated, it should in conjunction with the Federal Government also endeavor to adopt the following strategies if its efforts are to have any meaningful and longer lasting sanitizing effect on the polity.

Since it is a known fact that the attacks on Abuja cannot be tackled in isolation of what is happening in other parts of the country, the FG and the FCT should synergize in the following areas: adopt measures which countries in Europe, the Americas, Asia, and Africa have successfully used to curtail

insurgency—counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism. Another stratagem that is necessary to halt the menace of insurgency is Intelligence-led policing, which is a collaborative enterprise based on improved intelligence operations combined with community-oriented policing.

Intelligence-led policing is a police and community collaboration for effective security interventions. Another measure that is necessary for adoption is community policing initiative, which was launched in 2004. On this premise, community members should be encouraged to be at the forefront of fighting insurgency. Members of the public should cooperate with security agencies by way of information dissemination.

Because security is everybody’s business, all residents of Abuja should be on red alert and be ready to report all suspicious movements to security agencies.

The wave of terrorism in the country today has claimed thousands of lives—both Christians and Muslims alike.

So, the battle is for everybody to fight. Senate President David Mark attested to this in his opening remarks at the resumption of plenary recently thus: ‘’the time has come for us to stand shoulder to shoulder as we confront this evil. As Nigerians, we must all unite across party lines with the sole aim of fighting and defeating our common enemy.’’

It is equally necessary to

engage the insurgents in dialogue with a view to determining their grievances (if any) and to finding lasting solutions to them. If possible, grant them amnesty, something similar to the one granted to Niger Delta militants by the administration of Late President Umaru Yar’adua. As a corollary, those responsible for the award of the contract for CCTV cameras should be promptly apprehended and duly sanctioned, while efforts should be intensified to procure new ones that will help security agencies in monitoring crime in Abuja. Above all, the government must fish out the sponsors of these devilish elements irrespective of their standing in the society and mete out appropriate punishment on them with a view to serving as a deterrent to other like-minded individuals who may be favorably disposed to toe similar lines in the future.

The evil intentions of the enemies for Abuja, the nation’s capital city of must not be allowed to prevail. Just like Muhammad Buhari said in 1983 that ‘’Nigeria is the only country that we have. We must remain here and salvage it together,’’ Abuja is the soul of the nation and as such, all Nigerians, irrespective of party affiliations and religious inclinations, must join forces to free it from the vice grip of these murderous elements.

Kaura is a public affairs analyst based in Abuja

PEOPLES DAILY, wednesday, MAy 14, 2014

PAGE 15

Comment

Religious war unlikely in Nigeria (1)

By Mansir Lawal Kaware

F

ears were expressed in Nigeria following recent security challenges in the country of a religious war breaking out. This is because adherents of different religions hold on to their faiths and a crisis could easily assume a religious nature. But the present Nigerian situation does not call for that because none of the religious bodies could be identified as waging a war against the other. Although a body headed by Professor Wole Soyinka in conjunction with Osun state government organized a colloquium in Osogbo on 14/4/2014 aimed at preventing religious war, the danger of a religious war is remote. In his address, Nobel Laureate Professor Wole Soyinka, Chairman of the Board of Centre for Black Culture and Interventional Understanding, represented

by Professor Wale Adeniran feared that Religious war looms, saying no nation in the world ever fought religious war and became the same again. The conference which brought together Muslims, Christians and traditionalists discussed possible ways of avoiding religious conflicts because of its sensitivity. While their concern is commendable, Nigerians have understood that the problems were more political than religious.

The fact that Muslims and Christians places of worship were being attacked does not in any way prove it to be religious.

The Boko Haram and its associates in the North, MEND and its likes in the South have independent reasons for the attacks depending on the situations and the time of their actions.

Ethnic, Religious and Political crises are not new to Nigeria, many of them had come and gone, what surprised Nigerians in the present case is how Boko Haram crises are sustained for years now.

While the attackers may be Muslims or Christians, there is no clear reason that could attribute their actions to either of the religious reasons.

We had religious crisis in 1980 during Shagari regime, that was witnessed in Kano as Maitatsine uprising, other crises before that time were also recorded, but it was the Maitatsine religious conflict that first attracted the military before it was brought under control. Since then there were more than fifty ethno-religious crises in the country that may not be all religious. Nigeria is believed to have different ethnic groups ranging from 250 – 400, mostly divided between the two major religions of Islam and Christianity. Over the years we had crises involving religious groups like 1981 Bulunkutu uprising in Maiduguri, the Jimeta – Yola religious conflicts of 1984, Zangon-Kataf crisis of 1992 and many more. Under the militia groups, there were the July 1999 Shagamu conflict, the Kano reprisal attacks, the OPC reprisal attacks in Lagos, the Kaduna (Igbo conflict on Shari’a 2000) and the Enugu reprisal attacks. Another sort of conflicts is on issues of struggling for political and economic gains mostly through militants groups such as the OPC, Bakassi Boys, the Egbessi Boys, the Ijaw Youth Congress, Igbo People Congress, Arewa Peoples Congress, Mossob, MEND and the latest of them all Boko Haram.

One noticeable issue about all the conflicts was the fact that no conflict ever survived two weeks after drafting the military or Police or imposition of a curfew in the affected areas except that of MEND and Boko Haram. The issue of MEND is very clear, it is more of economic and political reasons than religious and those fighting that war and their supporters/ sponsors have their targets. But the most confused and tensed contraption is the Boko Haram.

Those involved neither believe in Islam nor Christianity in

their actions. The actors in that group are themselves not sure of what they are doing, but they are people simply acting under the influence of drugs. They may not even have the idea of who exactly are using them and for what purpose. There can not be an action without mission except that those that have the mission kept it to themselves and left others in the wander land.

The Boko Haram of 2009 had changed feathers, it has metamorphosed into many other killer groups with different names but carrying the same assignment. The killer squads squaring-up just as Boko haram are Gunmen, Fulani Herdsmen, Cattle Rustlers and other smaller groups posing as armed robbers, local thieves and the like. There could not be religious war in Nigeria today because those perpetuating the acts do not spare both Muslims and Christians in their killing spree.

Although Muslims are the most affected, ordinary Muslims can not attack the Christians they stay with because they never saw them clearly assaulting the Muslims. What is happening looks more like madness, because only a madman attacks people without reasons. In the world history, attacks that killed people massively are only carried out for three reasons; either for Political Power, Economic or Religious reasons.

The Boko Haram and its branches are not visibly fighting any of the three. It can not be religious, because they attack both Muslims and Christians and neither establish an Islamiyya or Babtists Schools to teach the followers after the attacks. It can not be economic, because it is either they do not take anything victims after the attack, or what they carry is not commensurate with the killings, while they sometimes killed those who do not have anything to offer economically. The closest to reality of what may be considered is political power. But one may be tempted to ask, where do they want to conquer. Northern

Nigeria is part of Nigeria, how do they wage a war against a section of Nigeria if really they want to takeover the country. The new Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) Air Marshal Alexander Sabundu Badeh declared on 20/1/2014 that Boko Haram will be crushed

by April 2014, probably the CDS never knew how powerful Boko Haram has been and as new comer he assumed that under normal circumstance three months was enough for the Army to finish with the insurgents as they are sometimes referred to. The ACF has in its letter to the Governors of the North said there is more than meets the eye. The ACF had on a courtesy visit on 7/3/2014, to Governor Aliyu of Niger State doubted the capability of the Armed forces to deal with the insurgents.

Although, the fighters are claiming to be fighting an Islamic religious war, it has never happened in Islam to have those working for Islam engaged in abducting and raping women.

The women captured were not taken as prisoners of war or slaves but used for sexual abuse as testified by two of the women who escaped from the camps i.e.

Salima Abubakar and Rosemery Edo, a lady who hails from Cross River and went to Maiduguri in search of work.

They said there are many women being used sexually by the insurgents and it is so in all the places they operate. In 1981/82 it could be recalled that Chadian troops were crushed into their country by the Nigerian Soldiers in less than two weeks when they put the Nigeria might to test.

Nigerian Soldiers and Police Officers who went to UN peace keeping always returned with commendations from such missions for outsanding performance. One wonders what went wrong that for about five years now, the Nigerian Military and other security agencies could not bring an end to, this menace of Boko Haram insurgents or by whatever name called. The

attacks have spread from Borno, Yobe and Bauchi to over 2/3 of the Northern States though in different names. While the Nigerian soldiers claimed some victories, the attacks are on the increase and the massive killings continued. The Governors of Adamawa, Benue, the father of Kano Governor, Senator Ndume from Borno, Shehu of Borno and the Emir of Kano were all attacked and only escaped deaths by the whiskers.

The Governors of Borno, Yobe and Adamawa made claims of inefficiency on the part of the Nigerian security personnel but were usually denied by the military authorities or the presidency. On the 12/4/2014, wives of soldiers at Enugu barracks protested sending their husbands to Maiduguri.

By this action, the women were telling the military high authorities, that they do not see the war being fought as a sincere one, but simply sending their husbands to a place of no return. Otherwise the women know their husbands were employed to fight and protect the territorial integrity of the country and would not have complained if they saw it as a serious war.

This conflict which came in the open in 2009 left us with no clear idea, because the leader of the initial group Mohammed Yusuf said if the war started it would continue for long. He is dead now and nobody is there to interpret what he means. But the sophistication with which the war is going on now did not tally with the prohibition of Western Education as earlier claimed by the sect members.

In fact the Governor of Benue State, Gabriel Susuwan said what is happening in Benue is beyond Fulani herdsmen, leaving the army that killed Fulani men in the name of protecting farmers to search elsewhere for an answer to their action.

To be continued Mansur Lawal Kaware wrote in from Katsina

Education ministry without a minister

By Kudu Mohammed Aliyu

E

ducation is the heart of any nation. It supplies every sector of society, and once sick it affects the entire facets of the society. In fact, the levels of education to society create a conscious and enlightened citizen who has brighter ideas for National Development. Education of the citizens is the guarantee for Peace, Unity, Equity and Justice.

One of the great forces that bring people together as one is

education. In education there is no discrimination, but merit.

A country with well education citizens can simply build itself a united nation of people irrespective of creed, colour, sex, religion or any other primordial sentiments. The greatest instrument of National Development is provision of qualitative education to the present and future generations.

Having briefly high lightened the importance of education to the present and future generations, we need to know what is eroding the

importance of this sector to our society. Firstly, leadership problem: After the exit of Prof.

Ruqquayat Rufai, there has been a glaring vacuum which is yet to be filled, not because the so-called supervising minister is not on ground but his attitude towards policy issues appears more of a militant than a democrat and a technocrat.

Secondly, inadequate funding of education by government: This is a serious problem affecting the provision of qualitative education to Nigerian citizens which is

a pre-requisite to national development.

In view of the above, the importance of education to national development, one would assume that a responsible government of any nation should take a ministry that looks after education most seriously.

Unfortunately, for the first time in the History of Nigeria, the ministry of education has no minister which has led to protracted industrial action by some sectors of education for seven months. One needs not

to be told how this had affected the education of our youth.

Before one is appointed as a supervisor such a person must have knowledge of what he asked to supervise, so as to make corrections if any.

Situation where 80 percent of the person “in-charge” is already in his state for governorship, the remaining 20 percent is too small to handle such an important and sensitive ministry like that of education.

Kudu Mohammed Aliyu, Federal Polytechnic, Bida.

Peoples Daily, Wednesday, MAy 14, 2014

PAGE 16

Residents rue poor condition of roads in Gwagwalada

By Usman Shuaibu

A

buja Residents in Gwagwalada Area Council, of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have expressed worry over the deplorable condition of roads in the area. , which constantly expose people to a lot of untold hardships.

Some of the residents who spoke to the Peoples Daily, lamented the poor state of roads, which they blamed on negligence and lack of political will by successive administrations of the Council, to execute people-orientated projects effectively.

A resident in the area, Mr. Yahaya Sani, accused past administrations of the Council of failing to rehabilitate the Gwagwalada town hall road.

He appealed to the present leadership of the Council to deem it fit to repair the road, in order to lessen the sufferings experienced daily by the people.

“The Gwagwalada town hall road has really affected us negatively, and whenever we try to use it the result has always been difficult”, Sani expressed.

Similarly, another resident, Mr. Samuel Kelvin, also called on the government to rehabilitate the Pilot science primary school road, in the interest of the children, who are forced to trek long distances to attend the school, due to the terrible condition of the road.

Kelvin, who is a trader in the area, equally appealed to the administration of the Council, to as a matter of urgency to repair the LasisiPaikon Motel road, that leads to the Gwagwalada central market, so as to reduce the hardship of the masses.

On his part, a community leader of Anguwan Hajara in Gwagwalada, Malam Awwal Saleh, lamented the agony and sadness the people usually pass through due to lack of good roads in the area.

Not left out, a civil servant, Mr. Dansabe Gaya, alleged that despite the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) fund released to the lawmaker representing Gwagwalada at the National House of Assembly, Isah Egah Dobi, to tar the Anguwan Hajara road, but diverted the money for his personal use.

He however, queried the past chairmen of the area council for not focused on the rehabilitation of roads in the area.

Parking enforcement officers of the platinum parking management services sticking penalty paper one car for the owner’s refusal to pay parking fee at Maitama, in Abuja.

Park & Pay suspension: On Street Parking continues – Official

By Stanley Onyekwere

J

ust three days short of a month since the ban on Park and Pay scheme in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), by an Abuja High court, the Transportation Secretariat, of the FCT Administration has reiterated that Abuja’s On Street Parking continues in the Territory.

According to the Secretariat, the suspension of the scheme has not in any way affected the long implementation of On Street Parking Policy in the FCT. Head, Public Relations, of the Secretariat, Ifeanyi Ughamadu, who disclosed this yesterday, in an interview with Peoples Daily, said the clarification became necessary following the wild jubilation that greeted the suspension of the scheme from motorists and their expectation of care free parking regime in the city.

It would be recalled that a ruling of an Abuja High court presided over by Justice Peter Affen, on the April 17, had declared illegal the operation of Park and Pay Scheme in Abuja, the nation’s capital.

Ughamadu, however reminded motorists of the consequences of wrong parking on the FCT roads, urging them to adhere strictly to the long practiced On Street parking policy in the city, as part of the FCT Traffic Rules.

He added that violation of the policy will attract some payments (fines), between N10, 000 and N25, 000 or any other charges, if the vehicle is towed away by the enforcement arm of the FCT Transport Secretariat -Vehicle Inspection Office (VIO).

“Any vehicle that is parked on the walkways, follower verges, drainage covers and or blocking the free traffic movements would be towed away and the vehicle owner

Cleric urges Muslims, Christians to love one another

By Usman Shuaibu

T

he clergyman in charge of the Apostolic Church, Tugan-Maje Assembly, in Gwagwalada Area Council of the FCT, Pastor Cornelius Akintola Akinboyede, has called on both Muslims and Christians to love one another, irrespective of their religious affiliations.

He also urged the Islam as

well as Christian faithful to live in peace with one another in anywhere they found themselves.

Akinboyede, who made the call in an interview with newsmen during a church service at the Assembly, further called on the Christians to emulate the life style of Jesus Christ at all times.

He appealed to both religions’’ leaders to continue preaching the truth to their respective followers,

as contained in their Holy books.

He therefore, pleaded with leaders to deem it necessary to provide the needed basic amenities for the people that voted them into power.

Also, the cleric urged all and sundry, to continue to intensify prayers for the security challenges facing the country at this present democratic dispensation.

will pay for the cost of the removal” “For parking vehicles illegally on our walkway, drainage covers or flower verges, it will attract some payments (fines), if the vehicle is towed away by Vehicle Inspection Office (VIO), the owner is to pay N 10, 000 before the vehicle is released.

“And if vehicles are parked on undesignated or illegal parks, and are towed away by VIO, the owners are to pay N25, 000, to collect their vehicles back.

“We have other charges for parking on bridges or any

other illegal places, but the most important thing is that we condemn illegal and indiscriminate parking in the city.

“We have adequate markings on the roads; and they can accommodate all manner of parking in the city. So there is no need for anyone parking illegally on the road or other facilitiesobstructing vehicular flow in the city,” he said.

The Secretariat therefore called on the motorists to adhere to the FCT Traffic Rules, so as to make the City a lively place to dwell in.

FCT minister sues for peace

By Chris Alu

T

he FCT minister Sen. Bala Mohammed has tasked northern youths to be law-abiding and as well ensure that peace reigns in the region even as they support President Jonathan’s administration.

The Minister stated this yesterday to the ‘Northern Youth Group for Jonathan 2015’, who paid him a condolence visit over the death of his mother Hajiya Aishatu Mohammed.

Bala said that the youths are the watchdog of the society and therefore, need to be proactive in the society and also do everything to ensure that peace reigns, not only in the northern region, but to the entire

country.

He explained that the youths should work hard in order to contribute to the socio-economic growth of the region and not to allow themselves to be used by any politicians for chaos, adding that they should continue to support the Jonathan-led administration, which is bent on bringing development to the northern region.

Earlier, the president of the group, Alhaji Dantani DioZuru said the group loved his visionary style of leadership and encourage him to continue in his good work ,adding that they group were deeply touched by the dearth of his mother and asked God to grant him the fortitude to bear the loss.

Peoples Daily, Wednesday, MAy 14, 2014

Metro

PAGE 17

Business activities going on, yesterday at Karu market, in Karu, Abuja.

A middle-aged man hawking belts and wallets, yesterday at Apo village, in Abuja.

“Annang� cultural troupe entertaining guests, during the FCT Akwa Ibom Cultural Day celebration, recently in Abuja.

Staff of Abuja Environmental Protection Board evacuating garbage, yesterday at Central Area, in Abuja.

Heavy traffic jam along Karu around, on Sunday in Abuja.

Photos: Mahmud Isa and Justin Imo-Owo

PAGE 18

Peoples Daily, Wednesday, MAy 14, 2014

Metro

Man jailed for stealing tithe

A

Fulani herdsmen taking sachet water, along Kubwa Road, in Abuja.

INSIDE FCT COURTS

Man to spend one month in prison for assaulting girlfriend F or assaulting his girlfriend, a 30-year old man, Ogah Godwin of Mararaba, Nasarawa state is to spend one month in prison, following his sentence yesterday, by a Kado Upper Area court, in Abuja.

The presiding judge, Mr. Abubakar Sadiq, sentenced Godwin after he pleaded guilty to a two-count charge of

criminal force and assault.

Sadiq, however, gave the convict an option of N5, 000 fine.

The judge declared that the sentence would deter others from engaging in similar acts, and warned the convict to be of good behaviour after serving his jail term.

Earlier, police prosecutor, Mr. Simon Ibrahim, had

told the court that the complainant, Miss Augustina Sati, of Gishiri Village, Abuja, had lodged a report against the accused at the Utako police station on May 5.

Ibrahim told the court that the accused beat up the complainant in public and inflicted injuries on her.

The prosecutor said that

the complainant lost her Nokia phone valued at N7, 000 during the assault.

In his plea, the convict told the court that he did not know what came over him when he committed the crime. ‘‘She (complainant) made me angry and I could not control myself; please have mercy on me. I will not do it again,’’ he pleaded. (NAN)

Court remands 2 for stealing 2 motorcycles

A

n Upper Area court sitting in Gwagwalada, Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has remanded two motorcyclists in prison custody for allegedly stealing two motorcycles.

Abubakar Sadiq, 20, and Saidu Mohammed, 25, both of

Old Kutunku in Gwagwalada, were arraigned on a two-count charge of joint act and theft.

The judge, Alhaji Alhassan Kusheri, gave the order for their remand after they both pleaded not guilty to the offences.

Kusherki adjourned the matter until June 25 for further

mention.

The prosecutor, Insp Martha Paul, had told the court that sometimes in March, the accused persons jointly stole two motorcycles valued at N230,000.

Paul said that the motorcycles belonged to Jibrin

Abdullahi and Abdullahi Abdullahi of the same address.

The prosecutor, however, said that one of the motorcycles was recovered from the accused on May 6.

She said that the offence contravened the Penal code.

(NAN)

Court remands mechanic for cheating

A

Grade 1 Area court, in Mararaba, yesterday ordered a mechanic, Aminu Suleiman, 25, to be remanded in prison pending his bail application.

Suleiman, who resides in Tipper Garage, Mararraba, is accused of breach of trust and cheating.

The presiding judge, Mr Albert Maga, gave the order after the accused was arraigned

by the police on a two-count charge.

Maga, who adjourned the case till May 22, ordered the accused to get legal representation to file a written bail application on his behalf.

Earlier, PC Friday Adaji, prayed the court not to admit the accused to bail because he had allegedly cultivated the habit of cheating others.

Adaji told the court that

Abdullahi Gude, at the orange market, Mararaba, lodged a report against the accused at the `A’ Division Police Station on May 12.

The prosecutor said that in March 2013, the complainant entrusted N115,000 to the accused for his father, one Mallam Husseini of Kano State, which he refused to deliver.

He said the accused

disappeared with the money until April 4 2013, when he was sighted at Tipper Garage and arrested.

Adaji also told the court that the offences contravened the Penal code.

If convicted, he faces 10 years in prison, an option of fine or both.

After the charges were read to him, Suleiman pleaded guilty. (NAN)

Senior Magistrates’ court, in Wuse Zone 2, Abuja, yesterday convicted and sentenced one Augustine Bala, to one month of sweeping and cleaning of the church where he stole tithe.

The Magistrate, Mrs. Chinyere Nwacheonwu, handed down the sentence to Bala, 27, of Mpape, when he pleaded guilty to the one count charge.

Bala pleaded guilty to the charge and begged for leniency and forgiveness.

“Please, my lord, have mercy on me, I have made a great mistake. I would have asked the church members for help instead of committing sin onto God’’, Bala said.

Earlier, the Prosecutor, Cpl. Emmanuel Adikwu, told the court that Bala stole N27,950 from the till of Trinity Catholic Church, Maitama, Abuja.

Adikwu said that Bala was caught by the security guard who reported the matter at the Maitama Police Station.

The prosecutor said the offence contravened Section 288 of Penal code. (NAN)

Court jails 30-year old man for insulting neighbours

A

Grade 1 Area court in Karu, Abuja, yesterday sentenced one Joseph Adu to two months imprisonment, for insulting his neighbours and calling their mother a prostitute.

Adu, 30, of Karu area, pleaded guilty to the offence of intentional insult and attempt to commit an offence contrary to section 263 and 95 of the Penal code.

Judge Hassan Ishaq, however, gave the accused an option of N4,000 fine after he pleaded for mercy, saying he did not know it was an offence.

The police prosecutor, Stephen Eimoga, told the court that neighbours of the accused, Felix and David Ugar, both male reported the accused to Karu police station on May 12.

Eimoga said the accused went to the apartment of the complainants in a rage and threatened the family with a knife and also called their mother a prostitute.

The prosecutor also said the accused admitted the offences in a confessional statement to the police. (NAN)

Page 19

Peoples Daily, WEDNESday, may 14, 2014

INSIDE

business@peoplesdailyng.com 08142929046/etuka2012@gmail.com/08066605655

Custodian grows by 78.5 % -Pg 21

Renewable energy utilisation to bridge power deficit in rural areas Nebo -Pg 20 L-R President, Dangote Group of Companies, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, Adviser to the President/CE, Dangote Group, Mr. Joseph Makoju, a staff of Dangote Group, Mr. Filipe Nuno, Managing Director, Niger Delta Power Holding Company, Mr. James Olotu, and Minister of Power, Professor Chinedu Nebo, during a meeting with Vice-President Mohammed Namadi Sambo on power sector, yesterday at the State House, in Abuja.

Photo: Joe Oroye

IOCs’ assets divestment good for local players – Diezani Stories by Etuka Sunday

T

he Minister of Petroleum Resources, Mrs Diezani Alison-Madueke has said that the recent spate of assets divestments by international oil companies (IOCs) operating in Nigeria would provide opportunity for indigenous oil and gas companies to become active players in the upstream sub-sector of the industry.

At an investment luncheon organized by the Petroleum Technology Association of Nigeria (PETAN) during the recent Offshore Technology Conference in Houston, Texas, The Minister explained that with the divestments indigenous oil and gas companies now have opportunity to acquire the assets being divested as springboard for the development of local capacity.

Speaking on “Assets Divestments in the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry: Opportunities and Challenges”, the Minister who was represented by the Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), Engr. Andrew Yakubu, stated that the divestments by the IOCs were creating opportunities for indigenous oil and gas companies to partake of the upstream sector of the industry and grow capacity.

“Let me allay your fears that the spate of divestments would not lead to crisis in the nation’s oil and gas industry, rather the divestment by the majors is changing the onshore corporate landscape and creating material brownfield opportunities for upstream players looking to enter the Nigerian upstream space,”Alison-Madueke noted.

A statement by the Group General Manager, Group Public Affairs Division, (NNPC), Ohi Alegbe quoted the minister to have observed that the divesting IOCs were not leaving the country but only shifting their focus from onshore to the more challenging frontiers of deep offshore which currently accounts for 60% of Nigeria’s production.

“The IOCs remain very much present in Nigeria. Shell still retains ownership of 34 onshore blocks while Total, ExxonMobil, and Chevron are still committing large amounts of capital to assets offshore Nigeria,” she explained.

Highlighting the opportunities inherent in the divestment, AlisonMadueke stated: “The indigenous Nigerian companies have been presented with the opportunity to develop local operatorship capacity as well as boost local

Dangote expresses interest in mining sector

By Doyin Ojosipe

…Acquires 260,000 hectares of land for Sugar plantation

B

for about 44,000mw power capacity.

In a courtesy visit to the Vice President, yesterday, Dangote also disclosed that the firm has acquired 260,000 hectares of land which will be used to develop sugar plantations in Adamawa and Taraba states, while plans are on ground to acquire more lands in Bauchi and Yobe States as well.

Similarly, he mentioned that about 56,000 hectares of land had also been acquired in kebbi state” while payment for r compensation to those affected has commenced.” He added that 50,000 hectares of land was also acquired in Kogi and Kwara sataes for sugar cane plantation as well.

The business mogul explained that “ the sugar plantation was planned to produce about 1.5million

usiness Mogul and Chairman, Dangote group of companies, Alhaji Aliko Dangote has said that the company was interested in the development of the Nigerian mining sector.

According to him, the high profile mines in Nigeria had been licensed to those that do not have the capacity to develop them and as such has such led to the expiry period of agreement.

In his words “high profile mines in Nigeria has been licensed to those who do not have the requisite capacity to develop them and the time frame given them has expired.” while noting that the firm was ready to partner with the federal government on public private partnership (PPP), he added that the firm has partnered with one of the leading companies, Andre de Coulters, who is responsible

metric tonnes of sugar, Ethanol, Biocompost and animal feeds and would generate about 360mw which was above the firms requirements.” While the remaining megawatts would be transferred to the national grid for distribution to the host communities.

A statement by the Senior Special Assistant to the Vice President on Media and Publicity, Umar Sani quoted the Vice President, Arc Namadi Sambo to have said that plans were being made to cancel the licenses of the underperforming miners while throwing it to the public to attract more serious investors He commended the firm for such a huge investment and also promised government co-operation in the public private partnership (PPP) as well.

production and consequently grow into major upstream players”.

She cited the Nigerian Petroleum Development Company (NPDC), the upstream subsidiary of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), as an example of indigenous Nigerian company that has tapped into the opportunity provided by the divestment to transform from a small time player with a production of 60,000 barrels per day (bpd) in 2007 to a mid-size player with a current production of over 140,000 bpd through the assignment of 55% equity in 8 divested blocks.

She disclosed that NPDC has grown to become the biggest producer and supplier of gas to the domestic market through its aggressive development of the assets assigned to it from the divestment process, adding that the Federal Government was ready to strengthen and support the company toachieve its medium term objective of growing production to 250,000 bpd.

APCON to clampdown on unregistered practitioners, says Registrar -Pg 22 Exchange Rates

CBN as at 6th MAY, 2014 Buying

Selling

$

154.7

155.73

€

258.66

260.33

£

213.51

214.98

Riyal

41.26

41.52

YEN

1.51

1.52

CFA

0.30

0.32

Management Tip of the Day

S

Three tips for motivating your customer service team

cripting exactly what customer service employees should do in every situation drains the initiative out of even the most highly motivated workers. But when you set up a system that enables you to trust your employees to exercise their own judgment and learn from their experience, they may well deliver a far better customer experience.

• Establish guardrails. People handling calls should understand where they have latitude and where they don’t. Within those guardrails, your team should be free to exercise judgment.

• Seek feedback. Ask customers for feedback after each transaction.

Circulate the comments to team leaders so they can see where they’re succeeding, where they still have work to do, and what, specifically, your customers point out.

• Coaching and support. Free your supervisors and experienced customer care professionals from some tasks so they can devote time to coaching and getting new hires get up to speed.

Source: Review

Harvard

Business

Page 20

Peoples Daily, WEDNESday, may 14, 2014

Business

Renewable energy utilisation to bridge power deficit in rural areas-Nebo

By Etuka Sunday

T

he Minister of Power, Prof.

Chinedu Nebo has disclosed the plan of the ministry to grow renewable energy resources utilisation and deployment in Nigeria considering the low level of electricity generation and transmission in the country.

This he said was the only way to reach the rural communities that are far away from the national grid.

Nebo spoke during a facility tour at the National Agency for Science Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) Solar Energy Limited (Solar panel manufacturing plant) in Karshi, FCT and their Small Hydro installation at Gada, Akwanga in Nasarawa State.

He said, “It was so good when we launched Operation Light-up Rural Nigeria (OLRN) that the leadership of NASENI contacted the Ministry of Power to partner with them. So we felt one way

to do that is to come and have a visual, real technical visit to learn as much as possible from what they are doing because I would rather patronise them than patronise foreign companies; I would rather create more jobs in Nigeria by utilising what they are doing.”

According to him, “The potentials are so enormous, solar is the only thing you can deploy to every part of Nigeria and get electricity. We have challenges with wind because the onshore wind velocity is not quite amenable wind turbines, and only select part of the country would use that. Then for biomass there are places we don’t have biomass and so on.”

So solar is a veritable tool for making sure electricity gets to every nook and corner in Nigeria.

NASENI, as we have seen has very diligent methodology of quality control of making sure that whatever they sent out there is exactly what it is at the

minimum. If it is 185w, they will write 180w, so you are actually getting it better than what you see on the solar panel label, and that is the way it should be.

“It has excellent prospects but it needs to be encouraged.

7.5mw can only take care of few communities. Many communities will need as much as 500kw, so you are thinking of only 15 communities and there are local governments in Nigeria that have more than 15 communities.

So what NASENI is producing now is not enough but I believe that when we begin to patronise them and everybody else sees the need to patronise them, then they will grow their capacity to manufacture, and like we were told, they could move to 25mw and even replicate this round the country which will help to push solar all over Nigeria, which I believe is one way we have quick wind of power deployed across the country,” he said.

Also speaking, the National

Agency for Science Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) Executive Vice Chairman (EVC), Mohammed Haruna, “The solar factory as you have seen is a demonstration plant and it was started as part of our research and development and we want to prove that it can work in Nigeria.

So it is a 7.5mw pilot plant and it is producing solar panels of high quality standard and the products are available in the market.”

“The production is still an assembly plant and we have a target and a programme approved by the President to work with the Chinese Great Wall Industry Corporation (CGWIC) to start manufacturing the solar cells here using the raw materials in abundance in Nigeria. This will enable the expansion of this plant from 7.5mw, first 25mw and allow its duplication in anywhere in Nigeria, and then to serve as a backup for any private industry that would want to establish similar industry.”

L-R: Minister of Communication Technology, Mrs. Omobola Johnson, Founder and Chairman of Bharti Enterprises, Mr. Sunil Bharti, and Group CEO, CWG Plc, Mr. Austin Okere, during the panel discussion session on Empowering Africa’s Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) through ICT, during SME summit, recently in Lagos.

FMBN promises to deliver on its mandate

By Etuka Sunday

T

he Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria, (FMBN) has assured Nigerians that it would strive to deliver on its mandate of providing quality and affordable housing to Nigerians in order to bridge the housing gap in the country which currently stands at about 16million units.

Chairman of the Board of the Bank, Chief Bisi Ogunjobi, made the declaration at the conferment of sterling Award for Excellence in Leadership and Entrepreneurship on the managing Director of the

Bank, Gimba Ya’U Kumo by the Arewa Youth Forum (AYF) in Abuja, Tuesday.

Egunjobi said the current board and management of the bank has been trying its best to change the perspective Nigerians have of the bank by putting actions and policies in place that have impacted on its ability to deliver on its mandate.

Commenting on the award, National President of AYF, Alhaji Ibrahim Gujungu said the award was initiated as part of the Forum’s overall effort to promote the public and private sector-led

socio-economic development in Nigeria with the view to recognise honour and encourage leaders that have promoted and excelled in leadership activities.

Gujungu said the main objective of the award is to hold out these indivisulas as a source of inspiration and motivation to upcoming leaders and future generations of Nigeria.

In his remarks, Managing Director of the Bank, Mr Gimba Ya’U Kumo said he was humbled by the award describing it as an encouragement for someone doing little to be able to do more.

He said the bank is committed to providing affordable housing to Nigerians and commended the board and management for their support so far.

While commending the group on the award, the MD said Nigeria belongs to all Nigerians and urged Nigerians to strive to contribute their best to the progress of the country.

“This country belongs to us and we will keep on doing our best because no one will do it for us. We will continue to do more to make Nigerians proud” he said.

Nestle shareholders get N25.50 dividends From Ngozi Onyeakusi, Lagos

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hareholders of Nestle Nigeria Plc.have approved a dividend payout of N24. 00 kobo for the financial year ended 31 December, 2013.

The company had earlier declared an interim dividend of N1.50 kobo, thus making it a final dividend of N25.50 kobo representing 27.5 per cent increase over 2012 figure, payable to investors whose names appeared in the company’s register as at Friday 25th April, 2014.

Shareholders commended the company for rewarding them handsomely but urged it to do more by increasing their stake in the company through a bonus payout even as they reminded the company that such benevolence was enjoyed by them last in 2011.

Addressing shareholders at the company’s 45th annual general meeting, in Lagos the Chairman of Nestle, Mr David Ifezulike, stated that the payment of the dividend was in view of the good performance achieved by the company in 2013 and in line with the boards commitment to creating value for its shareholders.

Nestle Nigeria was been able to grow revenues from N116.7 billion to N133.1 billion, a four per cent surge and profit after tax of N22 .2 billion in 2013, a six per cent growth from N20.9 billion recorded in 2012.

Most impressively, the company was been able to reduce the percentage of sales devoted to income tax expense from 3.35 per cent to 2.85 per cent which successfully propelled the company excellent performance within the period under review.

Commenting on the result, Ifezurike attributed Nestlé financial success to the staff commitment, wise business decisions taken by the company and other measures put in place to safeguard the company against the toils of the hard economic and political environment in the country occasioned by incessant killings especially in the northern part.

“The economic environment in 2013 was very challenging because of the deteriorating security situation in the country, particularly in the north region.

Our response was to increase brand support, accelerate innovation and renovation and ensure our pricing was sensitive to consumer needs. This gave impetus to our real internal growth and together with efficiencies and structural cost savings, attributed to our profit increase and strong cash flow”, he expressed.

Peoples Daily, WEDNESday, may 14, 2014

Pension/Insurance Custodian grows by 78.5% stories from Ngozi Onyeakusi, Lagos

C

ustodian and Allied Plc has announced a profit before tax of N1.3 billion for the unaudited first quarter results ended 31 March 2014.

This represents an increase of 78.5 per cent over the N746.9 million recorded in the corresponding period of 2013.

Profit after tax as well increased by 90.7 per cent from N587 million to N1.1billion for the period in review, while the gross written premium was N5.9 billion from N4.1 billion written in the same period in 2013 representing 41.8 per cent increase.

The Group’s asset base

increased from N45.6 billion as at December 31, 2013 to N47.6 billion for the first quarter ended March 31, 2014, indicating 4.2 per cent growth within a threemonth period.

Similarly the firm recorded profit before tax to N4.33 billion for the financial year ended, December, 31st, 2013.

Disclosing this in Lagos during the firms annual general meeting the Chairman, Custodian and Allied Plc, Chief Ade Ojo, said that the result which was the first consolidated result of the post-merger of Custodian group saw a top and bottom line growth.

According to him, the growth was fuelled by 28 per cent increase in gross premium

income and 38 per cent rise in fees and commission income while the anticipated cost savings that were envisaged in the merger manifested in noticeable reduction in underwriting expenses which went down by 15 per cent and management expenses which went down by eight per cent in spite of the generous redundancy benefits paid to the disengaged employees.

He said the group’s profit before tax was N4.33 billion while the earnings per share and net asset per share increased to 60 kobo and 325kobo respectively.

Total asset, he said, stood at N45.65bn while shareholders’ funds were N19.1 billion.

He said that the successful integration of the Crusader operations and the resulting strong entity with enviable result had demonstrated that Custodian is ready for the future.

He said: “Our strong balance sheet and financial capacity, expanded and diversified product portfolio, operational efficiency and highly professional team will ensure that the company maintains its leadership position and provides superior return on investment to our loyal shareholders.

Shareholders at the meeting approved a dividend payout of 16 kobo per share for investors whose names appeared in the company register.

Minister of State for Power, Hon. Mohammed Wakil (5th right), Group Executive Director, Gas & Power, Mr. David Ige (5th left), Permanent Secretary, Ministry of power, Ambassador Godknows Igali, in a group photograph with members of the Steering Committee of the Escravos-Lagos Pipeline System, during their visit to the minister, yesterday in Abuja.

Photo: Justin Imo-Owo

Cornerstone records N5.3bn GP

C

ornerstone insurance Plc has announced a gross premium income of N5.3 billion for its financial year ending 31st December 2013.

This represents a surge of 15 per cent when compared with N4.6 billion recorded in the corresponding period of 2012.

The firms audited report submitted the Nigeria Stock Exchange showed a Profit After Tax growth of 69 per cent, from

510.4 million recorded in the same period of 2012 to N 860.3 million in the period under review.

The company recently flagged off a Financial Literacy and Consumer Education Campaign aimed at educating school pupils on the role and need for insurance in the economy.

The firm’s Head, Brand Management, Ademola Mafikuyomi, said the initiate was designed to inculcate in the pupils

saving, insurance culture and how they can also have a secured future.

“Our objective is to educate and help them imbibe insurance culture. We are interested in educating them on how they can have secure future irrespective of risks that occur to them.

“Considering the population of our economy and the insurance penetration, we have fundamental challenge in our hands. And to

tackle this challenge, we believe it is important we go to the grassroots to educate young people.

“We are poised to catch them young. We are hopeful that when we make necessary impact on them, they will grow with the culture and embrace insurance.

We are looking at how the children as influencer, influence their parents to buy insurance,” he said.

Page 21

Agents assure of insurance sector’s growth

A

s penetration of insurance in the country remained at abysmally less than one per cent, the new President of Association of Registered Insurance Agents of Nigeria (ARIAN), Mr. Gbadebo Olamerun, has assured to drive penetration and patronage through the activities of insurance agents.

Olameru who gave the assurance in Lagos stated that insurance agents are the grass root pillar of any successful economy. “We will drive the market with the new initiative of micro insurance to reach the nook and grannies of the length and breadth of Nigeria.

According to him insurance is still very strange to the people in the rural area, adding that with the issue of financial inclusion insurance operators must go beyond what they are doing to boost insurance penetration in the country.

He also called on the need to develop products that are affordable to a common man.

He further assured that his target was to register 20,000 agents at the end of 2015 adding that his tenure will equally ensure that all agents are licensed by the National Insurance Commission NAICOM. Olameru opined that his administration will be collaborating with insurance operators to ensure that all agents are licensed by NAICOM, this he said will increase the number of registered insurance agents with NAICOM and will also insurance premium and insurance GDPcontribution in the country.

He said he will focus on making insurance agency business easy, by partnering with other stakeholders in and outside the industry especially with state governments, NAICOM, NIA, CIIN, NCRIB etc to foster the deepening of insurance penetration in Nigeria.

He noted that his administration will collaborating with all insurance practitioners including my constituency the agents in introducing interactive session with all insurance agents tagged MEI (Members Evening Initiative) which will be a quarterly strategic session where agents will be hosted by one of the leading insurance companies.

This he said will afford all the major players in the industry opportunity to meet with the agents, increasing their capacities, give them a positive mind set and sense of belonging.

The ARIAN boss added that the association under his leadership will drive the Market Developmental Restructuring Initiative (MDRI) with a national holistic view of mobilizing all insurance agents for its execution.

Peoples Daily, WEDNESday, may 14, 2014

Page 22

Business

ActionAid wants women formers interest captured in budgets From Omale Lokoja

T

Adama,

he Programme Director, ActionAid Nigeria in Kogi state, Mr Victor Adejoh has called on Federal and states ministries of agriculture to capture the interests of small scale women farmer in their planning and budget proposals.

Speaking in an interview with correspondents in Lokoja on Sunday, he said such a measure would enable them access credits and grants easily as a body and increases their interest participation in agricultural activities.

Mr Adejoh who doubles as the Executive Director of a nongovernmental organisation, Participation Initiative for Behavioural Change in Development (PIBCID), opined that although small-holder women farmer operated on small scale, “they occupy strategic position in the value chain of food production” “Government in its planning process should ensure that these people are captured.

“Let government’s budget in agriculture be sensitive, responsive and to the needs of small holder women farmer that are in their various communities”, he said.

He observed that smallholder farmers operated in groups, farming on small parcels of land and required little funds to accomplish their goals and as such should not be equated with commercial farmers.

He asserted that rather than granting loans to smallholder farmers, and placing them in the same class with commercial farmers, they should be assisted with grants.

Mr Adejoh also called on government to provide adequate security for both small holder and commercial women farmer against nauseating attacks by herdsmen and hoodlums.

According to him, there have been instances of women farmer being butchered or raped in addition to many other atrocities being perpetrated against them on their farms by the marauding beasts.

The Programme Director also suggested that police posts be established every seven kilometres within community settlements, to enable timely report of criminal activities against rural farmers.

APCON to clampdown on unregistered practitioners, says Registrar

A

lhaji Garba Kankarofi, the Registrar, Advertising Practitioners Council of Nigeria (APCON), said on Monday that the council would soon clampdown on illegal advertising practitioners in the country.

Kankarofi made the remark while receiving the executive committee of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) Lagos Chapel, led by its Chairman, Mr Tayo Ikujuni.

He said the council was established by law to regulate

the activities of advertising companies in social, political, manufacturing and services sectors. ``We are an agency backed by law to issue licences and provide regular training to corporate bodies, and also to train multinational companies in knowing the trend of doing adverts in Nigeria. ``We have teams that provide regular training to professionals and to see to it that they do things properly. ``We have a team that can arrest and investigate offenders who do not believe they have to go through

APCON before placing their adverts,’’ Kankarofi said.

Kankarofi said there was need for Nigerians to understand the role of APCON in growing the nation’s economy.

He added:``For long we have been misunderstood; many do not accept that we are backed by law. ``We would be looking at training some members of the NUJ such as NAN reporters in reporting our activities for increased awareness of our operations,’’ the APCON boss said.

Earlier, Ikujuni had

described the visit as part of efforts to create a synergy and foster good relationship between the union and the council.

According to him, it is to find a way of assisting the two organisations in the areas of publications, in-house training and understanding the functions of the two establishments. ``NAN has over 250 subscribers, we project Nigeria to the international community and we hope to exploit the same opportunity to project APCON in the right manner,’’ Ikujuni said. (NAN)

L-R: Chief Executive Officer, Kenyan Export Promotion, Mrs. Ruth Mwaniki, and Executive Director, Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC), Mr. Olusegun Awolowo, during her visit to the NEPC headquarters, recently in Abuja.

Photo: NAN

FG establishes paddy warehouse for marketing inputs in Bauchi From Ahmed Kaigama, Bauchi

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he Federal Government to establish two paddy warehouses in Bauchi State to resolve the problem of marketing farming imputs The Director, Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development in the state, Alhaji Mohammed Yusuf, made this known to news men in Bauchi.

According to him, the warehouse will be a rice collection centre where rice farmers will bring their paddy to sell after harvest.

Yusuf said that when

established, the centre would ease the headache farmers experienced looking for buyers of the commodity after harvest, . ``It will also save paddy millers the stress of moving from farm to farm or house to house looking for paddy to buy and mill. ``Once a farmer harvests his paddy, he knows where to take them to and sell at a reasonable price, and the paddy miller also knows where to go and get the quantity he needs for milling. ``That way, the problem of farmers is taken care of and

for the dealers and the millers, the pains of moving from one location to the other looking for paddy is also addressed. ``This will not only encourage the farmers to continue production, it will also attract others to go into rice production,’’ he said.

He added that the measure would also attract more people into the business, especially rice millers.

The director explained that the warehouse would be run by the private sector with particular interest in rice millers, rice dealers, rice farmers or rice farmers’

cooperative society.

He said that the Federal Government would bear the larger proportion of the cost of constructing the centres, while the operator would contribute just a token.

He said that warehouses would be located in Bauchi and Gamawa Local Government Areas of the state where there are high volume of farmers. ``We have already commenced discussion with interested investors to see how we can commence construction of the warehouse before dry season farmers harvest their paddy,’’ he said.

Peoples Daily, wednesDAY, may 14, 2014

Stock Watch

Report as at Tuesday, May 13, 2014

PAGE 23

Peoples Daily, Wednesday, MAy 14, 2014

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PAGE 25

Special Report

Against the odds, quadruplets are born to fleeing refugees

By Vibeke Venema

H

aving quadruplets is never easy - but imagine trying to look after four new-born babies in a refugee camp.

In January 2013, Massaya Ag Iliyass, a farmer from Mole in Central Mali, and his wife Taghri Walet Tokeye, gathered up their six children and a few blankets, and fled. Three of the children could walk - the others had to be carried. A friend had lent them a donkey and the younger children took turns sitting on its back.

They walked for five days and five nights.

“It was a very long way and exhausting,” says Massaya. “We had to walk slowly so we wouldn’t tire them out,

and we rested as much as we could.”

Half the village fled at the same time. “There was no food - all the shops and markets were empty,” says Taghri.

They were fleeing both soldiers and Tuareg rebels. “Among them there are a lot of bad people, who rob people of their possessions and attack them,” she says.

“If they wanted to have one of our animals and we refused, they might kill us.”

Their destination was Mbera refugee camp, just across the border in Mauritania. They were part of a wave of 15,000 refugees that arrived in the camp that month alone.

When they first arrived, conditions were harsh. Some 60,000

refugees were trying to survive in 50C (122F) heat in the middle of the desert. There were shortages of water and food.

Taghri and Massaya, together with their six children, were among the thousands who fled the conflict in Mali to seek safety in Mauritania’s Mbera refugee camp.

Taghri soon realised she was pregnant but it felt different to her other pregnancies. “I could feel I was bigger,” she says.

“So I knew there was something more to it.”

An ultrasound revealed she was expecting quadruplets.

When asked how that made her feel, Taghri laughs for a long time.

“It was very good news to hear that,” she says eventually.

The medical staff in the camp were very excited. “In my whole life I have never come across quadruplets,” says Dr Kasonga Cheride, the surgeon from the charity Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF) who looked after the family.

Despite the tough conditions, being a refugee probably saved Taghri’s life. “If we hadn’t been there, she would definitely have died, and the children too,” says Cheride. Two of the babies were in the breech position so they had to be delivered by Caesarean section at the MSF operating theatre in Bassikounou, 17km away.

A quadruplet pregnancy is always highrisk and requires careful planning. Early delivery

The arrival of the quadruplets represents hope, but also a big challenge. The family has 10 children now

by elective Caesarean is common practice to prevent an emergency situation - such as the mother going into labour far from medical help.

Taghri’s pregnancy was allowed to continue for as long as possible but at 35 weeks - five weeks early - the babies were born.

“The atmosphere was one of joy for everybody,” says Cheride. “It was the first time any of us had been faced with quads, so there was great curiosity… the best moment for me was when we got all four babies out safely and in a good state.”

“I felt no pain at all,” says Taghri who had an epidural anaesthetic and was awake throughout.

Nobody cried - apart from the babies.

On January 4, 2014, babies 1, 2, 3 and 4 (as they were called before being given names) were delivered in the MSF operating theatre

There is no doubt that the quads have a special place in the hearts of the medical team. Cheride reels off their vital statistics as if they were the only babies he’d ever delivered. They were a promising weight at birth, between 3lb 15oz (1.8kg) and 5lb 6oz (2.45kg) - the average weight for quadruplets in the UK is 3lb 1oz (1.4kg).

The quadruplets were born in an MSF operating theatre in Bassikounou camp.

Massaya, the father, wasn’t there for the delivery - he was out herding sheep - but came as soon as he could.

“I felt extreme joy,” he says. “I was very happy so happy it’s difficult to express in words.”

Taghri managed to breastfeed. “It wasn’t very difficult because I’m

The quadruplets were born in an MSF operating theatre in Bassikounou camp

used to it,” she says. “But the nurses really helped and did some bottle feeding on top.”

Cheride says MSF has done everything it can for them to grow big and healthy. “Obviously they are special, and our hope is that we can see them grow up. That will give us great pleasure.”

Three boys and a girl, the quads are now four months old and still healthy - they weigh between 10lb 6oz (4.7kg) and 13lb 14oz (6.3kg).

Rates of triplet and higher order births in Europe range from 0.1 to 1.5 per 1,000 women In Western countries multiple births have increased due to fertility treatment.

Quadruplets are still very rare - one study found 12 quads out of 2.5 million births in low and middle-income countries.

Some African countries have higher twinning rates. Benin has the highest incidence of twins in the world, and the Yoruba in Nigeria are also more likely to have twins.

After four months of special care, the family has now left the medical centre and returned to

the refugee camp. It is challenging. The parents and their 10 children live in one swelteringly hot tent.

“There is someone who helps with the children but it’s very difficult to sleep at the moment,” says Taghri.

Two of the quads, Fatim and Oumar are very calm, says Massaya.

“However the other two, Ousmane and Aboubakrine, are very naughty - they cry a lot and only calm down when

someone holds them in their arms.”

The six older siblings seem happy with the babies and carry them around. Taghri is unsure of her other children’s ages. “All we know is when we had our first son.”

Nurse Sylvie N’Goran took care of the quads for the first four months.

“The only thing that would help us would be finding work,” says Taghri. “My dream would be to open a shop.” She

“

The atmosphere was one of joy for everybody,” says Cheride. “It was the first time any of us had been faced with quads, so there was great curiosity… the best moment for me was when we got all four babies out safely and in a good state

used to be a seamstress but no longer has any equipment - although it’s hard to see how she would get the time to sew, with four babies and six children to look after.

Massaya goes out to work when he can but this presents problems too. “When I’m not in the camp I can’t apply for food rations,” he says. Luckily they are not alone. “We have some really good neighbours who look after my wife and children.”

But his outlook is still bleak. “I don’t have much hope for the future of my children. At the moment I really have nothing so I can’t hope for any future for them,” he says.

The UN refugee agency (UNHCR), which runs Mbera camp, is working to change that.

“We don’t want refugees to be dependent on aid,” says Elise Villechalane, a UNHCR spokeswoman in Mauritania. “We are trying to encourage income-generating activities such as a factory making cooking stoves. We also promote vocational training and provide them with kit such as a sewing machine.”

Only one of Massaya’s children goes to school, and Villechalane acknowledges that too few children are getting an education in the camp - just 40% are in primary school. But plans are afoot to improve access to secondary and even tertiary education.

A curriculum has been developed for the Mbera refugees based on the Malian education system. “It is encouraging because it means they are preparing to return to Mali,” says Villechalane.

However the Mauritanian education authority advised including two subjects in Arabic to give refugees the opportunity to integrate in their host country, just in case they stay.

Although the stream of refugees into the camp has been reduced to a trickle, continuing tensions in northern Mali mean that not many are returning home just yet.

Massaya can’t imagine going back at this point.

“We have to accept that we are living in a camp and that we are refugees,” he says. “We carry on.”

BBC World Outlook.

PAGE 26

Peoples Daily, WEDNESDAY, MAY 14, 2014

Property

Where property prices are set to rise and fall all over the world

By Ruth Bloomfield

T

alk of a global recession impacting on the world’s property markets post-2007 implies a homogenous waltz of price rises and falls. The reality was far more varied, with different countries, cities, neighbourhoods and even streets experiencing radically different property cycles, from the disastrous to the almost imperceptible.

Nonetheless, a new report published on Saturday attempts to rank 27 countries into three categories: those that are showing symptoms of a property bubble, those that are on solid ground and those where prices have not yet recovered from the downturn and where, therefore, price growth is a distinct future possibility.

The report by Knight Frank focuses on the relationship between average property prices, salaries and rent levels.

A property market is deemed correctly valued when local incomes are just high enough to buy or rent an average property, and when average house prices are running close to long-term average levels.

An overvalued market is one where prices and rents are outpacing salaries and prices are above average, while an undervalued market means buyers can comfortably buy or rent an average home at prices below long-term average levels.

Norway: With a price-to-rent ratio of 71%, and a price-toincome ratio of 27%, Norway is considered overvalued* * Data from Knight Frank based on long-term averages Japan’s current undervalued status began in the late 1980s when economic growth stimulated an almostunparalleled property bubble: prices rose by 160 per cent in six years. When the heat went out of the market prices collapsed, ushering in what the Japanese refer to as “the lost decade” of economic stagnation.

A three-bedroom apartment in Oslo, priced at £3.3m Property

Prices appeared to be recovering in the early 2000s only for the collapse of Lehman Brothers to send them into freefall once more.

Last year – in part thanks to Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s attempts to stimulate the economy through growth strategies including quantitative easing – a new recovery quietly got under way. According to the Land Institute of Japan, prices for Tokyo condominiums rose 8.6 per cent to £287,262 in 2013, from an average £264,591 in 2012.

At the end of last month Harvey travelled to Taiwan to launch a middle-market development of 61 apartments being built in Sumida, a rapidly gentrifying suburb east of Tokyo, with prices starting at

A three/four-bedroom apartment in Geneva

£226,164. Interest in Adenium Sumida-Honjo and other new developments in the city has, he says, been “phenomenal” with some so oversubscribed that developers are resorting to lotteries to select buyers.

“The hungriest appetite is from Taiwan, closely followed by Hong Kong and Singapore,” he says.

Japan: With a price-torent ratio of minus 38%, and a price-to-income ratio of minus 36%, Japan is considered undervalued* Harvey forecasts that if foreign interest continues, coupled with growing domestic confidence, then price growth is

“

likely to continue over the next 12 to 24 months.

At the other end of the scale is Norway, considered by Knight Frank to be the most overvalued nation.

“Norway is kind of hidden outside the EU and not that affected by what happened in the rest of Europe,” he says.

“Everyone in Norway has got enough money. Our country is quite rich because of our oil industry and because a lot of people work in governmentowned businesses.”

In the last seven months of 2013 Norway’s house prices dropped 6 per cent in response to a tightening of mortgage lending rules. Now the initial shock has worn off, that fall has almost been reversed. At present an average Norwegian property costs £288,202, while property in Oslo costs an average £336,968.

However, a country’s property market is never uniform and an exception to Olstad’s prediction may lie within the golden triangle of real estate between Oslo’s port, its main shopping district Frogner and Pilestredet Park. An unnamed

“Norway is kind of hidden outside the EU and not that affected by what happened in the rest of Europe,” he says. “Everyone in Norway has got enough money.

Our country is quite rich because of our oil industry and because a lot of people work in government-owned businesses.”

Norwegian businessman last year spent £34.8m on a 1,000 sq metre apartment in the area, says Olstad, although a more typical triangle apartment would cost between £1.5m and £2m.

A few minutes away in this compact city a similarly sized property would cost an average of about £250,000.

Switzerland: With a priceto-rent ratio of minus 2%, and a price-to-income ratio of minus 9%, Switzerland is considered correctly valued* Geneva, for example, enjoyed stunning price rises in the years leading up to 2007.

Alex Koch de Gooreynd, a partner at Knight Frank, says this growth was thanks to the city’s safe-haven status, high standard of living, the presence of the UN’s European office and many European company headquarters, plus, of course, Switzerland’s beneficial tax arrangements.

At the peak of the market, Koch de Gooreynd estimates that a house in Cologny would have cost about £15m. Today that same property will be worth about £8.4m.

This Alpine village attracts the kind of rarefied international buyer who is not much affected by a mere global financial crisis.

Many sales are off market, and transaction levels are too low to offer reliable data on prices, but Matthew HodderWilliams, associate partner of Knight Frank, says values remain steady. The entry price for a modern two-bedroom apartment in Gstaad is about £1.25m to £2.5m. At the top end buyers pay up to £40,000 per sq metre to secure a prime chalet.

‘Global Opportunities Report: Assessing value in housing markets worldwide’ can be viewed at knightfrankblog.com/ global-briefing/

Peoples Daily, WEDNESDAY, MAY 14, 2014

P A G E

Property Building collapse: COREN advocates death penalty for offenders

By Umar Muhammad Puma

W

orried by the incessant building collapse in the country, Council of Registered Engineers of Nigeria (COREN) has proposed death penalties to the owners of buildings that result to the death of people after collapsing.

President of the council, Engr Kashim Abdul Ali said this yesterday during the opening of a 3-day public hearing by the House of Representatives ad hoc committee on the composition and pigmentation of cement in Abuja.

“Like a man who drives a car and happened to kill somebody, he would be charge with manslaughter, even though he wasn’t the one who manufacture that car.

“But here is somebody who is involved in the building; who knowingly use sub-standard materials in a building which will collapse to kill people. He should also be killed,” he said.

The president added that the lawmakers should help towards enacting a criminal law on owners of building collapses, as found in many international countries.

“In Malaysia and Singapore, when a building collapses, owners are the first people to be investigated, which should also be the same here,” he said.

Asked whether the nature or quality of cement products used in building contribute to the cases of collapse, the COREN president explained that, after all investigations, cement product has never been the cause of collapses.

He said the problem always arises from the mixture of concrete frame for storey buildings, which occurs as a result of the use of quacks, instead of professional for building designs and supervision.

“The issue of quackry in the problem. There was a building collapse in Port Harcourt, when we went and investigated, we found out that a nurse was employed to supervise the construction of the building,” lamented the president.

He therefore said irrespective of the use of 32.5, 42.5 or 52.5 standards of cements on the market, a building only collapses on grounds of the quality of the mixture of concrete.

He told the committee that investigations have found out that there is no sub-standard cement product on the Nigerian market, rather people use pigment cement, which for special purposes in place of portland cement, that is used in general purposes.

Declaring the hearing open, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, said the House will not relent in its efforts to unravel the causes of frequent building collapse in the country.

The speaker said the efforts are in the pipeline to ensure the “unfortunate” loss of lives and property of Nigerians due to the building collapses incidences has stopped.

Tambuwal, represented by the House deputy leader, Rep Leo Ogor, was speaking while declaring open a public hearing for the investigation into the composition and pigmentation of cement by the House of Representatives ad hoc committee, chaired by Rep Yakubu Dogara (APC, Bauchi).

“The House of Representatives will not relent in its effort to unravel the causes of frequent building collapse in Nigeria particularly as they relate to the quality of cement produced in the country.

Houses in Ikoyi, Lagos state

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y and large, Ikoyi is a posh neighbourhood with a mishmash of exquisite residential apartments and commercial presence.

Ikoyi borders the Lagos Lagoon and takes up the eastern half of Lagos Island. It is one of the towns that make up the Eti-Osa Local Government Area of Lagos state.

Originally, the British Colonial Governments designated Ikoyi as a residential area for the expatriate community perhaps due to its proximity to the sea. However this arrangement changed with time with big establishments locating their corporate headquarters at Ikoyi. Ikoyi is home to the creme de la creme of the Nigerian society, from diplomats to senior company, business executives and senior public servants.

Cost of accommodation in Ikoyi: Ikoyi is definitely a splendid place to live or work in. Peopled with well educated, enlightened group of residents and with a superfluity of luxury apartments in this part of Lagos, you can be sure to secure a comfortable accommodation comparable to those in Europe and America so long as you have the financial war chest. A typical 3 bedroom apartment in areas like Banana Island, Park view estate, attracts rent of as much as N24 million (about $150, 000) per annum while the average price of buying an apartment in Banana Island is upward of $8 million. It is

A house at the common to see prices of real estate in this part of Lagos denominated in United States dollar. Banana Island an exclusive playground of Nigeria’s obscenely wealthy, is reportedly Nigeria’s most and expensive neighborhood – at par with the Seventh Arrondissement in Paris, La Jolla in San Diego, California and Tokyo’s Shibuya or Roppongi neighborhoods.

Accommodation in places around Obalende and Dolphin estate are comparatively less expensive but still beyond the reach

Shopping and places of interest:

City Mall in

of many middle class folks.

World class businesses thrive and have their corporate headquarters in Ikoyi. The roll call includes but not limited to KPMG, Julius Berger, Zenon, Intercontinental WAPIC, and NNPC among others.

Ikoyi is also home to numerous shopping plazas including the Palms Shopping Mall, Kingsway shopping centre, Dolphin estate shopping centre, Golden Gate Plaza and city mall located in Onikan. A large number of fashion houses, boutiques, salons and clothing stores can be found on the busy Awolowo way.

Just like supermarkets and pharmacies also adorn different parts of the busy Awolowo way and other non residential parts of Ikoyi.

Similarly, Ikoyi is renowned for some landmarks like the Lagos Polo Club, Ikoyi Club, Court of Industrial Arbitration, Kings College, Federal High Court, Dodan Barracks, JAMB secretariat, Niger Towers, Alfred Rewane Road (formerly Kingsway Road), Awolowo way, former federal secretariat, Voice of Nigeria, Radio Nigeria and the former Police Headquarters.

Property for sale in Lagos

7-5 Bedroom fully detached Duplex with swimming pool at Parkview Estate, ikoyi

Roads and infrastructural facilities: Most of the roads in Ikoyi were constructed in colonial times but thanks to rehabilitation projects of the Lagos State Government, most of the roads are been reconstructed.

Other Public infrastructures like electricity supply and potable water cannot be guaranteed but is definitely better than other areas of Lagos. This is not a problem to most residents of this area as they comfortably afford their own boreholes and sound proof generators.

C o m m e r c i a l transportation: Commercial transportation in Ikoyi is also better organized than what is obtainable in different parts of the metropolis because there are dedicated commercial buses conveying passengers to and fro Ikoyi. With the exemption of taxis, other commercial vehicles such as buses are banned from Banana Island, Park view, Osborne road and Dolphin estate. Cost of goods are generally expensive in Ikoyi because of the impression that it is a posh neighborhood. However one can get good bargains around Obalende axis.

Educational institutions in Ikoyi Ikoyi is home to the creme de la creme of creche, primary and post primary educational establishments in Nigeria. They include: Corona Schools situated at Mekwunwen Road, Banana Island School located at 227 close, Banana Island, Greenwood House School situated at Parkview Estate. Fees in some of the aforementioned schools is upward N5 million naira per annum.

Night life in Ikoyi: There is never a dull moment in Ikoyi. Top of the line night clubs and world class hotels abound in and around Ikoyi axis. Some of the clubs include: Club 10 (reportedly owned

by JJ Okocha) is located at Saka Tinubu Street. Another club known as “The Vault” sits at Idowu Martins Street; Club Towers is at Idowu Taylor Street. Intercontinental Hotels and Radisson Blu Anchorage Hotel amongst others are also round the corner.

Ikoyi is generally a serene, peaceful and safe neighborhood; it boasts of one of the lowest crime rates in Lagos state. Illegal structures seldom spring up easily in Ikoyi as the residents associations which are known to be dogged and conservative will quickly rise to the occasion and put a stop to it.

Nigeria Property Centre

Peoples Daily, WEDNESDAY, may 14, 2014

PAGE 28

Mercedes-Benz C-Class is impressively refined

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t may not be the prettiest. It may not be the sportiest. It may not be the most spacious.

It’s definitely not the cheapest. Yet the 2014 Mercedes-Benz C-Class is nevertheless an impressively refined and well-rounded luxury car that feels every bit as meticulously screwed together as Mercedes’ pricier sedans. Even in the face of newer competitors and on the eve of an all-new replacement, the current C-Class sedan and coupe are superb choices.

As you’ll m o s t definitely see below, there is a dizzying array of C-Class

Motoring

variations: sedan and coupe body styles, four engines, rear- and allwheel drive, Sport and Luxury sub-trim levels and the C63 AMG high-performance model. Yet even if you get the simplest, cheapest C250, rest assured that you’re not getting gypped. As the C-Class is no longer the entry-level MercedesBenz (that honor now goes to the sleek CLA-Class, standard equipment is plentiful and there’s a huge list of available luxury- and safety-oriented options.

Granted, there are other small luxury sedans that come with similar equipment at a cheaper price, but the C-Class is so much more than simply a laundry list of features. Whether the welldamped suspension is effortlessly soaking up a railroad crossing or you simply close the door with a vaultlike “thunk,” the C-Class has a substantial, finely engineered quality that can’t be appreciated by looking at a spec sheet or flipping through photos. Even its prime competitors, the Audi A4 and BMW 3 Series, can’t quite match it in this regard.

Then again, both of those cars are also very impressive, especially given the 3 Series’ lineup of efficient and powerful engines.

There are also other competitive entries worth looking at, such as the Infiniti G37 and Q50, Lexus IS and Volvo S60. Coupe buyers should consider the Audi A5, BMW 4 Series and Infiniti Q60. From a highperformance

standpoint, the list narrows considerably as, apart from Audi’s RS 5 coupe, the C63 AMG exists largely in a class by itself this year.

Really, it’s hard to go wrong in this segment. But it’s also hard to turn down a 2014 Mercedes-Benz C-Class sedan or coupe.

The 2014 Mercedes-Benz C-Class is available in sedan and coupe body styles, both of which are available in C250, C350 and C63 AMG trim levels. All-wheeldrive versions are also available in the form of the C300 4Matic sedan and C350 4Matic coupe.

The C250 and C300 4Matic come standard with 17-inch alloy wheels, LED running lamps, automatic headlights and wipers, auto-dimming rearview and driver-side mirrors, a sunroof, climate control, dual-zone automatic climate control, a tiltand-telescoping leather-wrapped steering wheel, eight-way power front seats, MB-Tex premium vinyl upholstery and split-folding rear seats. Electronic features include the Mercedes COMAND interface, a 5.8-inch display screen, mbrace2 emergency communications and smartphone integration, Bluetooth

phone and audio connectivity and an audio system with a CD player, USB and auxiliary audio jacks and HD radio. The C300 4Matic differs with a V6 engine and allwheel drive.

with satellite radio and the iPod interface.

The C350 sedan comes only in Sport guise, with a more powerful V6 engine, 18-inch wheels and the Premium 1 package standard; the C350 coupe further adds the panoramic sunroof.

The C63 AMG is equipped similarly in terms of comfort a n d

I n sedan form, the C250 and C300 4Matic are further split into Luxury and Sport sub-trims.

These differ in wheel design, suspension tuning and minor interior/exterior styling details (such as different grille and steering wheel designs). The C300 4Matic Luxury also includes a comfort-tuned suspension.

The sedan’s Premium 1 package adds 10-way power front seats (with driver four-way power lumbar adjustment), heated front seats, driver memory functions, a power-adjustable steering wheel, a Harman Kardon surround-sound audio system with satellite radio and an iPod interface. Heated seats and the iPod interface are available as stand-alone options.

In coupe form, the standard C250 gets a panoramic sunroof, additional driver seat adjustments, driver memory functions and the power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel. The coupe’s Premium 1 package adds the heated seats and the Harman Kardon system

convenience features, but gets a vastly more powerful engine, high-performance tires, an adaptive sport-tuned suspension, upgraded brakes, sport seats, more aggressive styling and different interior trim.

There are a multitude of options available. The Multimedia package includes a rearview camera, a larger 7-inch display screen, a navigation system, voice controls and a six-CD changer. The Lighting package adds adaptive bixenon headlights, adaptive high beams and headlight washers. See the Safety section for information about the Lane Tracking and Driver Assistance packages.

All but the C63 can be equipped with the following. The Full Leather Seating package adds leather upholstery and passenger seat memory functions. The Sport package adds 18-inch AMG wheels, a rear spoiler, black upholstery with red accent stitching, sport seats and steering wheel, shift paddles, aluminum trim and redcolored seatbelts. For the C250 coupe, there is the Sport Package Plus, which includes all that plus an AMG sport suspension, upgraded brakes, quicker steering, sport exhaust and a Sport mode for the transmission that features rev-matching downshifts.

The C63 can be equipped with the Edition 507 package, which adds 56 extra horsepower, a higher top speed, an aluminum hood, 19inch forged alloy wheels, matte paint (available in five colors), red brake calipers and a carbon-fiber trunk lid spoiler. A limited-slip differential is also optional.

Additional stand-alone options include a rearview camera, a panoramic sunroof (on the sedan), a power rear sunshade, keyless ignition/entry and the Parktronic advanced parking sensor system.

Source: Edmunds.com

Page 29

Peoples Daily, WEDNESDAY, may 14, 2014

Arts & Culture

International cultural festival underway in Gambia

T

he International Roots Festival began on Monday in The Gambia with lots of fanfare and festivities, report says.

According to sources, the festival which culturally connects Africans in Diaspora to the African continent is said to be attended by Dr Julius Garvey.

Garvey is the son of Jamaican

Pan-Africanist, Marcus Garvey; Dr Rashidi Rukono, historian and author, Princess Beatrice of the Kingdom of Spain and high profile musicians, among others.

As part of the programmes, Garvey and Rashidi will address a symposium slated for Tuesday at the Kairaba Beach Hotel in Kololi.

The cultural festival, which runs

German recluse leaves art amassed under Nazis to Swiss museum

A

Swiss art gallery discovered on Wednesday that it had been named as the sole heir of Cornelius Gurlitt, the reclusive German owner of a hoard of masterpieces discovered accidentally in a tax probe, who died this week aged 81.

The Bern Art Museum said the news “came like a bolt from the blue” as it had no connection with Gurlitt. The collection - put together by his father Hildebrand, a dealer in so-called “degenerate” art for Adolf Hitler - is worth an estimated 1 billion euros ($1.4 billion).

Kunstmuseum Bern’s director, Mathias Frehner, said in a statement that Gurlitt’s lawyer had told him the museum had been named his “unrestricted and unfettered sole heir”.

The museum’s response was tempered by caution since an as yet undetermined number of the works, which include hundreds of masterpieces by the likes of Chagall and Picasso, were looted

by the Nazis from their Jewish owners during World War Two. “The Board of Trustees and Directors of Kunstmuseum Bern are surprised and delighted, but at the same time do not wish to conceal the fact that this magnificent bequest brings with it a considerable burden of responsibility and a wealth of questions of the most difficult and sensitive kind, and questions in particular of a legal and ethical nature,” said Frehner.

Gurlitt, who died this week following a complicated heart operation, had secretly stored the works at his Munich apartment and a house in nearby Salzburg, Austria, occasionally selling a piece to finance his quiet lifestyle and his healthcare.

His family pretended the collection had been destroyed in the bombing of their home in Dresden during World War Two. It remained a family secret until 2012, when tax inspectors stumbled across the hoard during an unrelated inquiry. Some of the

claimants are angry that Bavarian and German authorities kept it secret for 1-1/2 years until a magazine broke the news, forcing them to go public.

Some claimants hope that, with Gurlitt’s demise, the probe into the provenance of the collection will proceed quickly, and will no longer be complicated by the pending tax probe into Gurlitt and his own claim to be the rightful owner.

The media’s fascination with the story looks likely to go on, with Germany’s top-selling daily Bild reporting on Wednesday that public prosecutors had ordered an autopsy, even though Gurlitt’s lawyer said he had died at home under medical supervision.

“To rule out any third-party involvement, we have ordered an autopsy. We want to err on the side of caution,” Bild quoted Munich public prosecutor Thomas Steinkraus-Koch as saying, in an advance copy of an article due to be published in Thursday’s edition.

A motorcyclist drives past the Kunstmuseum Bern art museum in the Swiss capital of Bern .

Spanish tax inspectors discover lost Van Gogh painting in bank safe

S

panish tax inspectors checking the contents of a safety deposit box discovered a painting believed to be by Dutch master Vincent Van Gogh that went missing almost 40 years ago, a tax office source said on Saturday.

Confirming a report by Spanish newspaper El Mundo, the source said the painting was entitled “Cypress, Sky and Country” in English translation from Spanish and dated 1889.

The pastoral work had last been

on view in the Kunsthistorisches Museum in the Austrian capital Vienna, the source told Reuters.

He said an investigation was under way into how the painting wound up in the safety deposit box and whether it disappeared as a result of a robbery.

Art experts told the tax office that the painting, bearing three seals of authenticity and measuring 35 by 32 centimeters 13.7 by 12.5 inches), is most likely genuine although this must still be confirmed by Spain’s

FROM THE LIVE STAGE

from May 9 to 17, is organised by Gambia’s Ministry of Culture and Tourism.

The first International Roots Festival was celebrated in 1996 and since then the Gambian government has continued to organise the event to build bridges of brotherhood between Africans in Diaspora and those living in Africa. (PANA/NAN)

Culture Ministry. The value of the painting has not yet been assessed.

Van Gogh, a giant of the impressionist school whose works are among the most valuable in the world, committed suicide penniless in 1890 after a long battle with mental illness.

The painting was found during an operation to seize the contents of some 542 safety boxes from tax offenders who owed around 319 million euros ($438.83 million), El Mundo said.

with Patrick-Jude Oteh 0803 700 0496, 0805 953 5215 (SMS only)

Banana Talks – a comedy for our times opens!

B

anana Talks was devised in 2013 and it was our prefestival play for the 7th Jos Festival of Theatre 2013. Its premiere performance was on Sunday 17th February 2013 with only two actors on stage in the ninety minutes drama.

It was a play that was devised after watching Colin Teevan’s Kafka’s Monkey at the Young Vic in 2011 starring Lady Kathryn Hunter in the lead role of Red Peter, the ape. Colin’s play was based on A Report To The Academy by Franz Kafka.

We decided to present a report on the state of our community to our audience who we designated our academy. It was a hilarious play based on actual events in our community.

We presented reports based on our history as a people. Devising the play actually fell on the shoulders of Ebuka Ifebunso and he chose as his partner in the play, Akolo James Anthony. Both of them did not disappoint.

They traced the history of our people – from the age old story of unemployment where we see a young graduate who comes in with a very brilliant result but has been unemployed for the past five years. He comes to an office where he knows that there is a vacancy but he is turned away. He leaves but comes back disguised as the beautiful Sharon who receives all the attention of the boss including a job but when it was time for Sharon to provide him with ‘sugar’ the deal falls flat on its face as the boss could only snatch Sharon’s wig to find out that beneath the wig was the same JohnBosco whom he had walked out of his office.

The period the play premiered was also a period of intense fuel scarcity. So we move to the fuel queues where you will see grown men and women with wives and children some with grandchildren slugging it out in the fuel queues. After all the fights and abuses, one eventually gets to the pump only to buy one litre of fuel!

We moved to the society itself and our dear friends the police. What are we willing to pay for the price of liberty and justice? You will get either of this for a pittance but be prepared to do more if your vehicle does not have one piece out of a deluge of papers. And right from there, we move to landlord and tenants relationships. How will I pay my rent if I have not been paid for the past ten months? Only one feasible way – come home when Baba Landlord is fast asleep and leave home long before the cock crows. And we then moved to education – what do you call a well educated man? What do you call those who are struggling to learn? And then what do you call those who do not learn at all? We then set out in pursuit of get rich schemes – how much are you willing to pay to be directed to where you can get rich? For this man, it was contracts. He secures a huge contract but he shares it all with his cronies through various mandatory contributions. The two characters then proceed to curse and train tirades on all those who have continued to share and plunder our national cake and peppersoup.

In the end, we revert back to what we have always been – the resort to religion as a cure all for all sorts of malaise including the man-made ones. A miracle worker claims various cures for various ailments that inflict the human race. The person he claims to cure of all these ailments is a perfectly healthy man.

But one cure goes very wrong – he actually contracts the ailment for which he was to be cured.

We are back to the beginning of the play – like everything that we do as they play on the keyboard, do not worry.....just be happy. In a period of national disasters and calamities, now is the time to laugh at ourselves and perhaps in our tears and reflection we can mercifully find answers to all that beset us as a nation. In the original play, Peter, took to drinking and in that way he forgot his sorrows. Do not worry - just be happy.

An updated version of Banana Talks will open in Abuja at the French Institute and will be performed from 22nd to 24th May 2014 at 7pm daily as part of the activities leading to the celebration of our Democracy Day 2014. It is a must watch.

Peoples Daily, WEDNESDAY, may 14, 2014

Page 30

Arts & Culture Book Review

Sunbeams and Shadows: Reflections of a Poet’s Realities A rtist metamorphosise as maturity in age and experience sets in; this is a special design by nature.

Experience comes with a deeper understanding of self and the society in which the individual finds himself. It is customary that an individual’s life reflects the realities of his society. Now, is not a favourable time for a conscious and conscientious artist to idle in fantasies, in these times of ugly realities occasioned by the inanities of the political class and negative global influences. One would not be surprised to find a sane mind engrossed in beaming his torchlight on these issues that are almost becoming a part of our daily life. Saddiq Dzukogi is a young artist confronted with the challenges of taking a stand both as a social critic and a pathfinder, proffering alternative solution to the attainment of a meaningful life in a society ruled by satanic instincts.

Saddiq Dzukogi’s writings have matured through the years.

His journey into the world of writing is not one of happenstance but one of nature’s design, being the son of a writer and poet, BM Dzukogi. He published his first work of poetry at the age of fifteen ‘Images of Life’, when most of his peers probably were still day dreaming and fantasizing over delusional ambitions. His second collection ‘Canvas’ came out in 2012, and now with a third, Sunbeams and Shadows.

The young man has come of age both as a man and as an artist of class. The artistry and aesthetics in his latest offering is a reflection of life and nature’s abundant mysteries. He has outgrown those teenage experiences captured in his first work Images of Life and the fantasies of adolescence that characterise his second collection, Canvas; he now wears the garb of adulthood, and is confronting the realities of the adult world; the result is Sunbeams and Shadows.

Sunbeams and Shadows is a collection of eighty-Six poems spread within three sub-titles that include Continuum, Silent Pixels, and Homage. The one hundred and ten page book is published by Origami, an imprint of Parresia Publishers limited, Lagos. The well designed book is of fine quality and the poems gush with ripe innocence, a quality of true beauty. The poems talk about love, pains, philosophy, uncertainties and the absurdities of life. The collection’s romantic ambience is as effective as the lamentations therein.

Saddiq Dzukogi is a child of philosophy, a trend that is becoming synonymous with his offerings. The first part of this collection exudes philosophical cogitation that reflects his consciousness of nature. For example, in the poem ‘Life’, the

persona nags about the emptiness and endlessness that life is, ‘‘Life is a fake orgasm/ Hyperbolic illusion/Harvest of shapeless mirages/Falling like dew drops/On the bosom of time-/It holds no meaning!/Its eyes are worn out/By its fast race/ Its palms hang open in space/ Yearning’’. The poet in this poem asserts that, life is a harvest of shapeless mirages (emptiness), worn out by its fast race. Indeed, we can attest to the haste with which life drives us into the abyss before we even realise who we truly are and what our purposes are on earth.

The duty of the sunbeam is to illuminate the dark (Shadow) and cast light on our paths.

Saddiq Dzukogi’s collection is the sunbeam poised to ‘’Assess the shame of our shadows,’’ the question is whether we would be willing to accept the results of this assessment. The poet in the poem ‘Life’s falling apart’ on page 63, laments the unfortunate life that characterises his existence. In fact, he wishes for death as an end to his travails.

And who is not tired of living in this dilemmatic society of ours? ‘’I have grown pale in pain/ Drinking jars of tears/In aching thirst/Life has been smoked out of a willing body/Can unwilling fingers/Switch me off?/ 2. Life is falling apart/I have grown pale in

pain/In tears/Thirst/And haste/I will gather these pieces of pain/ And evoke a life/Where there is no switch to turn me off.’’

The persona, by the end of the poem, becomes so impatient to the point that he wishes for a life where there would be no ‘switch to turn him off’, (Heaven/Paradise).

The travails of the persona are same to those experienced by ordinary Nigerians every day. The last stanza of the poem ‘Fossil’ p.73, perhaps explains better the dysfunctions of the world the poet is writing about.

“I live in the recesses of my addiction/Bitter ambience/Taint my innocence/The world’s tongue taste of myrrh/And now I am a spit sucked/By a hungry earth’’.

The persona like every one of us in these times has accepted defeat by concluding that he is ‘a spit sucked/by a hungry earth’.

The ‘world’s tongue’, according to the poet, tastes of ‘myrrh’ a kind of pre-preparation of the tongue before we are ‘sucked’ by the ‘hungry earth.’ But are we not sucked dry every day in this nation by the fangs of Boko-Haram, poverty, pains and corruption?

The poet displays his knowledge of world politics and the deceitful antics enacted by the Western imperialists who are desperate to control the world’s economy. Like the late music legend Fela Anikulapo Kuti, the

poet dramatizes the politricks (politics) of the West asserted via a purported democracy. Hear as the persona mocks them in this piece: ‘’Bomb Iraq for oil boom/Them-all-crazy/Not to see you in your form/ Demon-crazy/The rats of Libya/Feast on ribs/Till light kiss flesh to bones/ Them! All crazy/Pinch Arab into a spring/that snatches thrones/from those you name; /Traitors, tyrants, dictators/for failing to be the arm-rest/Of ghoulish vent/Them-all-crazy/I swear’’.

‘Them-all-crazy’ p.80.

In the above poem, the poet satirises the West and their cunning ways and like Fela, he describes them as ‘crazy’ and spells democracy as ‘Demoncrazy’. A term Fela defines as a ‘demonstration of craze’. Well, is this not the life of a poet, to represent the realities of his time?

The last two stanzas of the poem ‘Dear Heaven’ reflect the solemn prayer that should be on the lips of everyone who craves a new dawn amidst these threats to our existence. “That May/ may spring/From the grave of silence/Of unconscious past/ And clean this gulf/ of gaseous nothingness” 2.

“Nature is in labour for new days/ And the sins of yesterday/Must set with the sun/Or sit with our tears” p.37. The persona asserts here that we must endeavour to wear the smiles of hope and optimism and look up to the Heavens just like the persona. And the poem in another light could be suggesting that we take the bull by the horns.

Sunbeams and Shadows is a collection of rhythmic poems garnished with imageries that reflect the failure of the past, the adversity of the present and the uncertainty of the future in a criminalised world of escalating calamity and confusion of purpose, which is consequent of a dysfunctional political and economic order. The poems exude the aura of metaphysics; love, religion, conceit and philosophy.

Perhaps, the words of one of the masters of his time best describes this collection of average diction, fine lines and engaging metaphors, ‘’These poems are magical, gripping and terrific. Because of their brevity, stimulating images, and enchanting lyricism, they remain persistent tunes in my head long after I have read them’’, E.E. Sule says of the poems. The poet has done his job of reflecting the realities confronting him a chaotic world. It is now the duty of readers to make meaning out of the poems in the collection.

POEM OF THE WEEK Cut to the heart I wanted a sunrise instead The moonlight pours into my cells So Helen Martin’s ghost has come for me She has bided her time well While India shatters at my feet Standing at the edge of it is an angel of water With wings made of ice– soporific vampire You landed like an avalanche I started off by trimming your icicles When you couldn’t keep your hands to yourself The pupil is radiant, so are the missing case studies A table has been set for me A forked tongue where my water glass should be I think in another life I might have been Virginia Woolf Rage is splashed against my childhood love Her name is ‘mother’ She tastes like cold plums I must be mad if I am having visions Of a woman sleepwalking in my house Wearing an alluring scarlet cloak Dripping blood where it Is not supposed to be like a vampire Bleeding into the fragile lines of being– The eternal that is love and death There is pain in the fire Of her belly not unlike the India of my sister’s travels My vision is formidable, dark and as serious as war She takes the perfume of wine, roses, And discontent wherever she goes The evidence of fear follows swiftly–she burns me Like lava and it is only the knowledge of childlike Innocence that keeps my mind far away from hers I become like a child once again In my dreams, the smell of rain in my hair Climbing over my parents thrones in the living room Already housing collections of darkness visible.

Source: Africanwriter. com

QUOTE “It is in literature that the concrete outlook of humanity receives its expression.”

- Alfred North Whitehead

PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESDAY, MAY 14, 2014

Page 31

International

China-Africa: 50 years of robust diplomatic engagement ANALYSIS

By Charles Onunaiju

T

his year marked the 50 years anniversary of China’s diplomatic engagement with Africa. The venerable first Chinese Premier, Zhou Enlai has led top Chinese government delegation to embark on a nearly twomonth long Africa tour from December 14th, 1963 to February 4th, 1964, the first ever of Chinese leader after the revolutionary triumph of the Communist Party in 1949. The tour which took Premier Zhou Enlai and his delegation to 10 African states was the real foundation to China-Africa’s vigorous diplomacy that has grown in leaps and bounds since then, but has also overcome twists and turns.

The trip took the delegates to Egypt, then called the United Arab Republic, Algeria, Morocco, Tunisia, Ghana, Mali, Guinea, Sudan, Ethiopia and Somalia. Earlier the then new Chinese leadership, brimming with revolutionary fervour after routing the combined forces of the Kuomintang (Nationalist) party and its mostly western imperialist in the civil war, met with some African leaders at the Afro-Asian solidarity conference held in April 1955 at Bandung in Indonesia. At the conference, Premier Zhou and foreign minister Chen yi held meetings with the Egyptian leader GamelAbdelNasserandrepresentativesof Ghana,Libya,Sudan,LiberiaandEthiopia.

Following the meeting, Egypt became the firstAfricancountrytoestablishdiplomatic relation with Beijing on May 30th 1956.

GuineaunderAhmedSekouToure,having earlier opted out of French proposal for association with her African colonies and embraced full independence in 1958, became the first country in sub-Saharan Africa to establish full diplomatic relation with China in October, 1959.

At the time of Premier Zhou’s famous visit to Africa for nearly two months, a rare duration in the history of diplomatic encounter, only about 34 African countries were politically independent, while other are engaged in long drawn struggle to free from direct colonial rule and imperialist Shackles.

In Egypt, the first leg of the tour, the beloved Chinese Premier stated that in contrast to the land of darkness and desperation talked down by imperialist, what he saw, was on a awakening and combatant continent, with the dawn of freedom in the horizon and the regimes of imperialism and colonialism inevitably falling apart. At a meeting with president Abdel Nasser, Premier Zhou put forward the five principles governing China approach to relations with Africa, the first, been China’s total support of Africa people in their fight against colonialism and their struggle for national independence.

At a welcoming reception, hosted by President Habib Bourguiba during a visit to Tunis, on the same leg of Africa tour, the Tunisian leader then, criticized China’s October 1962 approach to its territorial dispute with India and China’s kick at the partial test Ban treaty signed by the then, Soviet Union, Britain and America in august1963.Amidstthetenseatmosphere generated by the supposedly unfriendly remarks, the Chinese Premier reacted calmly, expressing profound appreciation

Chinese Premier Li Keqiang to Tunisian leader’s view and informed his host that such frank view would help China understand Africa’s position on important global issues. Premier Zhou added that it was not out of place for friends to hold different views on issues and emphasized that his African tour was meant to deepen understanding through sharing of frank views. Moved by premier Zhou’s honesty in seeking friendship with Africa, President Bourguiba announced the official establishment of diplomatic ties with China, the next day. Of all the ten countries that the Chinese premier visited in Africa, the trip to Ghana was the most dramatic. A day before his arrival to Accra, the Ghanaian capital, an assassinated attempt , made on president Kwame Nkrumah has injured him and killed his chief body guard.

Chinese delegation faced a difficult situation on whether to go Ghana or not and the Ghanaians themselves including President Nkrumah assumed that the Chinese delegation would cancel the trip due to security concerns. However, Premier Zhou Enlai insisted on making the trip and the next day he arrived in Accra and the Ghanaian leader could not hide his excitement, when he gave the Chinese Premier a bear hug at the airport. Premier Zhou has earlier argued that a true friend must not desert his

friend in difficult moment and going to Ghana in the face of the then, existential security challenge was a demonstration of the friend in need is a true one indeed.

Fifty years, later another Chinese Premier Li Keqiang demonstrated similar show of abiding friendship, when in spite of similar security challenges from threats of terrorist attack, he arrived in Abuja, Nigeria with huge delegation members to fulfil an obligation of a scheduled state visit and also attend a meeting of the world economic forum on Africa.

In Ghana, premier Zhou Enlai, enunciated the famous eight principles of China’s assistance to Africa, which emphasized that China would never consider its foreign aid as a unilateral grant but rather a mutual and reciprocal process from which China also benefits, that China would respect the sovereignty of the recipient country and that the purpose of China’s assistance is to support the self-reliance and independence of Africa countries. On arrival in Mali, the Premier was reported to have enthusiastically imitated the cheerful and vigorous local dance, after which the then President Moddibo Keita told him that dancing and signing was part of life in Africa. In their meeting, Zhou Enlai reportedly shared with Moddibo Keita, China’s experiences on governance and

“

economic development, which covered the capacity building of the governing party, the elimination of the residues of colonialism and the critical need to safe guard economic independence.

In Somalia, Premier Zhou made the famous speech, that Africa is ripe for revolution, a remark which resonated across the world and sparked panic in several imperialist centres. The enduring legacy of the Premier Zhou’s African nearly two-month diplomatic visit reflected in the abiding friendship between China and Africa, which at the beginning of this century took the institutional form, of the establishment of the forum on ChinaAfrica Co-operation (FOCAC) in 2000.

Through the mechanism of the FOCAC process, Africa and China has deepened its co-operation, from a traditional solidarity of a shared common historical experience to a new-type partnership inspired by common aspiration for development.

The co-operation between the two sides have already enhanced the trade volume to a whopping 210 billion US dollars in 2012 and made China, Africa’s biggest trading partner. While trade and other wider economic co-operation has made China-Africa co-operation a flagship of regional co-operation in world affairs, the shared historical experience and common aspiration remain the

In Somalia, Premier Zhou made the famous speech, that Africa is ripe for revolution, a remark which resonated across the world and sparked panic in several imperialist centres.

touchstone and indelible anchor on which African-China relation is built.

At his most recent visit to Africa, Premier Li Keqiang observed that ‘quite a few African countries have expressed interest in cooperation with China in building expressways” and stated unequivocally that “China welcomes such desires and will step up co-ordination with Africa to connect current expressways in Africa to form a continental network overtime”. To commit Beijing’s seriousness to the project, Premier Li Keqiang further added that “China is ready to provide financial, personal and technological support to infrastructure development in Africa”, and his country “will step up its investment and financing cooperation with Africa by providing additional $10 billion credit to a total of $30 billion and by adding another $2 billion to make ChinaAfrican Development fund, a total of $5 billion”. Such characteristic generosity has been the hallmark of a bourgeoning China-Africa co-operation and Africa has not left China in the cold in her time of need. In the 1970s, Africa helped end the isolation of Beijing and played crucial role in re-admitting the Peoples Republic of China to the United Nations, an effort acknowledged by the legendary chairman Mao Zedong who enthused then, ‘that our African brothers literally carried us back to the UN”.

At the twilight of the last century, when the western powers used the Tianemen incident to attempt to isolate China, African countries rebuffed the effort through their vigorous activities at the UN human Rights meeting at Geneva.

Africa-China co-operations have travelled an immense trajectory of sincere friendship, and building on the solid foundations laid by Premier Zhou Enlai some fifty years ago, the two sides exudes huge confidence on the immense possibilities in the years ahead.

PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESDAY, MAY 14, 2014

Page 32

International

UN chief calls for tribunal on S Sudan crimes

Fighter swapped for abducted envoy to Libya

A

mbassador Fawaz alItan, Jordan’s kidnapped ambassador to Libya, has been freed by his captors in exchange for the release of a fighter held over a plot to attack Jordan’s major airport.

Itan was freed on Tuesday and is on his way to Amman, the Jordanian capital.

A plane carrying Aitan touched down at Marka military airport in Amman and was greeted by relatives and officials led by Prince Faisal bin Hussein, the brother of King Abdullah II, the AFP news agency reported, citing state-run news agency Petra.

Al Jazeera’s Nisreen elShamayleh, reporting from Amman, said the ambassador would go to Mafraq for celebration of his release.

Khaled al-Kalaldah, Jordan’s minister for parliamentary affairs, said “last week, Mohammed Saeed al-Darsi was handed over to Libyan authorities in accordance with an agreement” with the Libyan side.

Itan was kidnapped in Tripoli last month by gunmen who demanded fighter Mohamed Darsi be released from a Jordanian jail in exchange for the diplomat’s freedom.

Darsi was jailed for life in 2007 for plotting to blow up the main airport in Jordan.

Analysts have said agreeing to the kidnappers’ demand could set a dangerous precedent for Jordan, which is an important US ally in the fight against al-Qaeda, Kidnappings have become commonplace in Libya, , with foreign diplomats often the targets.

Diplomats in Tripoli say militias which fought to topple Muammar Gaddafi’s regime in the 2011 uprising often carry out kidnappings to blackmail other countries into releasing Libyans held abroad.

Two Tunisians, a diplomat and an embassy colleague, have also been abducted in Libya, and Tunis has said their kidnappers are demanding the release of Libyans jailed in Tunisia on terrorism charges.

On Thursday, the government in Tripoli said the justice ministries of both Jordan and Libya had ratified the agreement to extradite prisoners. It did not elaborate.

U

N Secretary General Ban Ki-moon has called for a special tribunal for South Sudan, saying there are grounds to believe that crimes against humanity have been committed since widespread violence began five months ago.

The UN chief welcomed on

Ban Ki Moon UN Chief

Monday the ceasefire agreement signed by President Salva Kiir last Friday with his former vice president, Riek Machar, and demanded an immediate end to fighting, which flared over the weekend.

He called for “30 days of tranquillity” so farmers can plant crops in peace to avoid famine in the

world’s newest nation.

“If the conflict continues, half of South Sudan’s 12 million people will either be displaced internally, refugees abroad, starving or dead by the year’s end,” Ban warned the UN Security Council, the AP news agency reported.

Kiir fired Machar last July and accused him of trying to oust him in a coup in December, which sparked months of ethnic attacks and killings.

Fighting took place between troops loyal to Kiir, an ethnic Dinka, and those loyal to Machar, an ethnic Nuer.

Ban, who visited South Sudan last week, said that since the crisis began, “many thousands of South Sudanese have been killed, atrocities have been committed by both sides, more than a million people have been displaced and nearly five million more need humanitarian assistance.”

A UN report last week said gross violations of human rights had been committed “on a massive scale” in South Sudan.

Ban said that report “underscores the level of atrocities

committed by all sides” and “a special -or hybrid- tribunal, with international involvement should be considered.”

UN human rights chief Navi Pillay said after meetings with Kiir and Machar last week that she had warned them “they will inevitably be the subject of international investigations regarding the extent of their knowledge of war crimes and crimes against humanity committed by subordinates under their authority,” and their failure to stop it.

Ban said his message to both leaders “was quite clear and loud that we have found crimes against humanity by both sides” and the perpetrators must be held accountable, AP reported.

Francis Deng, South Sudan’s UN ambassador, who was Ban’s special adviser on the prevention of genocide, told the council his country “has been experiencing one of the worst atrocities the world has seen in the last decades”.

He expressed hope that “the specular accomplishment” of Ban and US Secretary of State John Kerry in getting Kiir and Machar to meet face-to-face “will usher South Sudan to a renewed commitment to peace, security, stability and dignity for all its people”.

Algerian army kills 12 militants on border with Mali

A

lgerian army has killed a total of 12 militants linked to al-Qaida during a week’s raid in the province of Tamanrasset, near the border with Mali, local media reported on Monday.

The troops on Monday discovered the dead bodies of another two militants at Tinzaouatine locality in south Algeria, bringing the number of militants killed there to 12, local state-run television quoted a statement of the Defense Ministry as saying.

The television also showed pictures of a load of weapons of different types seized by the army forces during the military operation.

Algerian anti-terrorism forces launched an operation in Tinzaouatine locality last week, killing 10 militants who hailed from Mali, Tunisia and Libya, the statement said.

The southern region of Algeria has been under terror threat following the chaos that hit Mali and Libya.

More troops were deployed on the borders with the strife-torn Mali and troubled Libya to counter any intrusion of militants and weapons.

Earlier this month, Algerian army troops arrested 20 armed Libyan men and seized their weapons on border with Libya.

The Algerian forces killed five militants belonging to the

Movement for Oneness and Jihad in West Africa last year, as they attempted to intrude Algeria

Source; Xinhua

Algerian army

Vital aid reaches hard-toreach Syrian towns: UN

V

L-R: President Goodluck Jonathan, and President Denis Sassou Nguesso of the Republic of Congo, during President Jonathan’s arrival at the Olombo International Airport, Oyo, Republic of Congo, during his visit on Monday.

Photo: NAN

territory via the Malian border.

ital humanitarian supplies were delivered last week to civilians in six hard-to-access towns in northwestern rural Aleppo, Syria, a UN spokesman said here Monday.

“UN and Red Crescent humanitarian workers delivered food, nutrition and hygiene assistance, first on May 8 to Kfar Hamra, Maaret Elartiq, Hariten and Hayyan, and then on May 9 to Nabul and Zahraa,” Stephane Dujarric said at a daily news briefing here.

The United Nations and partners plan to scale up their presence in eastern Aleppo city and western and northern rural Aleppo, in a series of deliveries through inter-agency convoys and regular agency programs, he said.

“The humanitarian coordinator for Syria, Yacoub El Hillo, said that efforts

by the United Nations and its partners to get access to civilians, wherever they are, will continue,” the spokesman said.

“Every affected civilian in Syria has the right to a dignified life where their basic humanitarian needs are met,” he said, quoting El Hillo.

UNhumanitarianagenciescontinue to call on all parties to the conflict to facilitate access to affected civilians and ensure the safety and security of humanitarian workers, he said.

Of Syria’s population of more than 22 million people, nearly half is in need of aid, and there are more than 2.5 million refugees in neighboring countries. More than 100,000 people have died since the Syrian conflict broke out in March 2011.

Source Xinhua

PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESDAY, MAY 14, 2014

Page 33

International

Olmert sentenced to Multiple car six years for bribery bomb blasts I across

Asia & Middle East

srael’s former Prime Minister Ehud Olmert has been sentenced to six years in prison for taking bribes, in a corruption case that resulted in the first criminal conviction of a former head of government.

Olmert, 68, had denied wrongdoing in a property deal that took place while he was in his previous post of Jerusalem mayor.

His lawyers were expected to ask the Tel Aviv court that passed sentence to allow Olmert to remain free until the Supreme Court rules on an appeal against his March 31 conviction, a process that could take months.

The veteran politician was acquitted two years ago of most of the major charges brought against him in separate cases involving his links to a US businessman.

Those corruption allegations forced Olmert’s resignation as prime minister in 2008, and his acquittal had appeared to position him for a possible political comeback.

But in the new corruption trial, Judge David Rozen found Olmert guilty of two bribery charges and said he accepted $144,000 from developers of the Holyland apartment building complex in Jerusalem and $17,000 in a separate property project.

Baghdad

A

Israel’s former Prime Minister Ehud Olmert

MERS coronavirus cases in Saudi Arabia rise to 491, including 147 deaths

S

audi Arabia’s registered number of Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) coronavirus cases increased to 491 on Monday, including 147 deaths, after adding six new cases and five more deaths, the Health Ministry said.

Two of the new cases are in stable condition, while the other

four are in critical condition and receiving treatment in ICU, the ministry said, adding that three of the new cases are from Riyadh, two from Jeddah and the rest one from Medina.

Meanwhile, the ministry said six cases have fully recovered by Monday.

The coronavirus was first discovered in mid-2012 in an old

man with acute pneumonia and renal failure. It has spread from Gulf countries to North Africa, Southeast Asia and Europe, killing more than a hundred people and infecting hundreds of others.

Saudi Arabia has retained the highest number of MERS cases in the world, registering new cases and deaths almost on a daily basis.

Earlier in the day, the

Health Ministry announced an early preparation to assure the availability of medics, medical equipment and medicines during this year’s Hajj season.

The ministry ha s e a r l i e r recommended the Hajj Ministry not to allow elderly and pregnant women to perform hajj this year.

The Qilin district people’s procuratorate in Qujing City arrested Hang Zizeng and Huang Junbo, head and deputy head of Gaojia village mine administration, for suspected dereliction of duty and started investigations into four

other work safety officials.

A flood occurred in Xiahaizi mine in Qujing on April 7. The mine was operating illegally at the time.

Eleven local officials in charge of work safety were removed

or suspended from their posts after the accident. Seven people, including the board chairman, the legal representative and the manager of the coal mine, were detained by police.

Source; Xinhua

Source; Xinhua

Two officials arrested after China fatal mine flood

T

wo more officials have been arrested and four are being investigated after the deaths of 21 dead miners in a flood at a pit in southwest China’s Yunnan Province, said authorities on Tuesday.

wave of car bombings in mainly Shia areas of Baghdad has killed at least 19 people, officials have said, the latest in a surge in violence that has been the most serious challenge to the government’s efforts to achieve stability across Iraq.

The attacks on Tuesday came as people were c e le brat in g t he birt hday of Imam Ali, the cousin and son-in-law of the Prophet Muhammad.

Police officials said a car bomb went off in the Baghdad neighbourhood of Sadr city, killing four people and wounding six in the morning hours.

Another car bomb elsewhere in Sadr city went off near a cluster of homes, killing two people and wounding seven.

Television footage from the AP news agency of one of the attacks showed a thick smoke rising from the blast area where several cars were on fire.

A short while later, a car bomb exploded in a commercial street in Baghdad’s eastern district of Jamila, killing three people and wounding 10.

Police said a fourth car bomb went off near a traffic police office in, also in the east of the capital, killing three people, including a traffic policeman. Seven people were wounded in the attack.

In central Baghdad, a car explosion killed two people and wounded eight, said police.

Another car bomb went off in a commercial street in the city’s Shia eastern district of Ur, killing five people and wounding 11.

Medical officials confirmed the casualty figures. All officials spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorised to talk to media.

According to the United Nations, 8,868 people were killed in Iraq last year, the country’s highest death toll since the peak of sectarian bloodletting in 2007 and 2008.

PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESDAY, MAY 14, 2014

Page 34

International Europe and Americas

US in aerial search for Nigeria schoolgirls

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he United States has been flying “manned” missions over Nigeria to track down more than 200 abducted schoolgirls, the Pentagon said, as experts pored over a new video, seeking clues to where they are being held.

“We have shared commercial satellite imagery with the Nigerians and are flying manned ISR (intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance) assets over Nigeria with the government’s permission,” a senior administration official told AFP news agency on Monday, asking not to be named.

It was not immediately clear what kinds of aircraft were being deployed, nor where they had come from.

A new video released by the Boko Haram group purportedly showing about 130 of the girls was being carefully studied by US experts in the hope it might yield vital clues as to where they are being held.

“Our intelligence experts are combing through every detail of the video for clues that might help ongoing efforts to secure the release of the girls,” State Department spokeswoman Jen Psaki said earlier on Monday.

“We have no reason to question its authenticity,” she added of the video.

In the video, the Islamic group’s leader Abubakar Shekau said the girls may be released once Nigeria frees all the Boko Haram prisoners it has in custody.

But that proposal has been rejected by the Nigerian government, and Psaki recalled that the US policy is also “to deny kidnappers the benefits of their criminal acts, including ransoms or concessions”.

A 30-strong US team arrived on the ground last week in Nigeria to help growing efforts to find the girls aged between 16 to 18, snatched from their boarding school in the northeast of the country on April 14.

The White House said the team included five State Department officials, two strategic communications experts, a civilian security expert and a regional medical support officer.

Also on the manifest are 10 Defense Department planners already in Nigeria, seven extra military advisors from US Africa Command and four FBI officials expert in hostage negotiations.

“We are talking about helping the Nigerian government search an area that is roughly the size of New England,” White House spokesman Jay Carney said, referring to the region in the US northeast.

Ukraine separatists seek union with Russia

P

ro-Moscow activists in eastern Ukraine have declared independence and sought to join Russia, undermining upcoming presidential elections and strengthening the Kremlin’s hand.

Monday’s declaration added pressure on Kiev to hold talks with the separatists following a referendum on self-rule in the east of the country.

Self-declared separatist leader Denis Pushilin announced at a press conference that the self-styled Donetsk’s People’s Republic (DPR) is seeking annexation with Russia.

“Based on the will of the DPR and to restore historic justice we ask the Russian Federation to consider the question of entry of the DPR into the Russian Federation,” Pushilin said.

However, Russia has signalled that it has no intention of subsuming eastern Ukraine the way it annexed Crimea in March. Instead, Moscow is pushing to include eastern regions in negotiations on Ukraine’s future.

The declarations of independence

by Donetsk and Luhansk come just 13 days ahead of a Ukraine national presidential election, which both

Ukraine seperatists

regions say they will not take part in.

Acting Ukrainian Prime Minister Arseniy Yatsenyuk pledged on Monday to hold talks with those in Ukraine’s east. But he gave no specifics and did not address Sunday’s vote or the recent declarations of independence.

“We would like to launchthe broad national dialogue with the east, centre, the west, and all of Ukraine,” Yatsenyuk told a news conference in Brussels, adding that the agenda should include changes to the constitution to give more power to the regions.

Ukraine’s central government and the international community say that the Kremlin has encouraged weeks of unrest in eastern Ukraine in a possible attempt to grab more land, but Russia denies these accusations.

The US said that it does not recognise the “illegal referendum” held over the weekend.

UN Secretary-General Ban Kimoon urged both sides “to find a way back to the spirit of compromise” exhibited on April 17 in Geneva when Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, US Secretary of State John Kerry and diplomats from Ukraine and Europe agreed on tentative steps to halt violence and calm tensions - and to implement the accord.

UK backs stripping citizenship over terrorism

T

he UK’s House of Lords has approved a controversial law allowing the government to strip citizenship from naturalised Britons it accuses of terrorism.

In April, the upper house of the British parliament had rejected the measure proposed by Theresa May, the UK’s interior minister, but passed the law on Monday after a government amendment.

Members of the house voted 286 to 193 in favour of the amended legislation with peers from the opposition Labour party voted against.

The lords reversed course after May accepted the addition of a clause that would only allow citizenship to be taken away if there were “reasonable grounds” to believe suspects could acquire another nationality.

Campaign groups have slammed the law, saying it would leave people stateless and offered no safeguards against abuse.

Liberty, a British civil-rights campaign group, criticised the House of Lords for their “empty compromise” and described the proposals as “barbaric”.

A statement by the group said the only way to challenge government decisions on stripping

citizenship would be through “a secretive, one-sided procedure”.

The government has said the proposals were brought in to defend the public from “dangerous individuals”, the AFP news agency reported.

Under previous legislation, the home secretary was able to withdraw citizenship from British people who carried dual nationality.

Amnesty: Torture is alive and flourishing T he use of torture is widespread 30 years after the United Nations adopted a convention outlawing the practice, Amnesty International has said.

At least 44 percent of more than 21,000 people from 21 countries surveyed by the London-based rights group for its new report released on Monday, said that they would not feel safe from torture if arrested in their home country.

The report titled Torture in 2014 - 30 Years of Broken Promises read: “Although governments have prohibited this dehumanising practice in law and have recognised global disgust at its existence, many of them are carrying out torture or facilitating it in practice.”

“Three decades from the

convention and more than 65 years after the Universal Declaration of Human Rights torture is not just alive and well. It is flourishing,” according to the report.

Amnesty said 155 countries have ratified the 1984 UN Convention Against Torture but many governments were still “betraying their responsibility” with at least 79 countries continuing to engage in the outlawed practice in 2014.

“It’s almost become normalised, it’s become routine,” Amnesty Secretary General Salil Shetty told reporters at the launch of the “Stop Torture” campaign in London. The campaign focuses on Mexico, the Philippines, Morocco and Western Sahara, Nigeria and Uzbekistan.

Shetty also spoke of “the cruelty

of inmates in the United States being held in solitary confinement with no light”, of stoning and flogging in the Middle East and of the “stubborn failure” of European nations to investigate allegations of complicity in torture.

“Since the so-called war against terrorism, the use of torture, particularly in the United States and their sphere of influence... has got so much more normalised as part of national security expectations,” he said.

Amnesty toture

PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESDAY, MAY 14, 2014

Page 35

Strange World

Guy has temporary tatoo done by 1000 bedbugs feeding on him at once

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on’t let the bed bugs bite, is what we’ve always been told. But Matt Camper, an urban entomologist at Colorado State University, is doing the exact opposite. He’s gone and created a unique ‘bedbug tattoo gun’ – made of a jar, some wire mesh and thousands of hungry bed bugs. You simply invert the jar onto your skin, let the bed bugs bite, and later admire the pink, temporary tattoo they leave behind.

Camper’s unique invention will be featured on an upcoming edition of ‘Outrageous Acts of Science’ on the Science Channel.

There’s a rabbit pattern on the top of the jar, through which the bugs are allowed to access human flesh. According to wildlife expert Ellie Harrison, it takes two hours for the tattoo to really show up on the skin. “Two hours after t h e b e d b ug s h a v e fed, the inflammatory response really kicks in and immune cells will flood into the tissues from the blood, producing redness and swelling and heat,” she says on the TV show.

“Bed bugs feed exclusively

on blood,” she said. “They find us via two sources. Firstly, they detect our body head, and secondly, they detect our carbon dioxide emissions.

And they don’t need to be that close, they can be 10 feet away and still find food.”

In case you’re wondering, the bed bug tattoos don’t

really hurt so much. Biologist Carin Bodnar says that when the bed bugs bite, they release something called a stylet into the skin. “There’s two tubes here, and through one of these tubes they’re sending in their saliva. And the saliva has both an anticoagulant – a chemical that actually keeps

the blood from clotting up – and also an anesthetic, so this is really good because whoever they’re biting can’t feel it.”

But biologist Chris Krishna-Pillay disagrees. “If you’re going to get bitten by a thousand bed bugs, a bunny rabbit is really a bit soft,”

he says. “You’d got to go for something a bit harder, maybe a skull and crossbones.”

Well, if they really are harmless, I think these tattoos are a cool idea. They last for about two weeks before fading away, which is pretty good for a temporary tattoo, don’t you think?

Guy has temporary tatoo done by 1000 bedbugs

Pop-up restaurant delivers sandwitches with parachutes to customers

T

here’s nothing really speacial about toasted sandwiches, but when they’re delivered via parachute, people are bound to notice. Taking full advantage of this idea is a new Melbourne business called ‘Jafflechutes’. More pop-up eatery than regular restaurant, Jafflechutes is just a bunch of guys dropping wrapped sandwiches from their friends’ balconies, to customers down below.

The concept is quite simple – the owners first announce their next planned event. You then log on to

the Jafflechutes website and buy a sandwich or ‘jaffle’ of your choice.

The website tells you exactly where and when you can collect your order.

You reach the venue on time, to find your sandwich floating down from the skies above. Then, you enjoy the said sandwich on the street.

Adam Grant, one of the cofounders, said that Melbourne is quite ideal for Jafflechutes, because of its abundance of inner-city laneways.

“We try never to do it in the same place twice – we are usually doing it from friends’ balconies above the CBD,” he

said. He started the business along with friends David McDonald and Huw Parkinson, last August.

“We have a few requirements for launching sites,” he added. “It has to be between four and six stories, obviously away from trees and ledges.

Melbourne’s laneways means we can operate away from the thoroughfares in the knowledge that we’re not going to interfere with traffic. We will only communicate with people on the ground via Twitter and social media – yelling off the balcony wouldn’t be a good look.”

Pop up restaurant

Adam explained the concept further: “It is a slow reveal over a few days about the location, the time, the ingredients, that kind of thing. When people order off our website, they nominate a time within a bracket that we determine. So for example, they might order two cheese and tomato jaffles at 7pm for Alex. So at 7pm we made them, write the name on the bag, and chute them down.”

The idea for Jafflechutes came about when its three co-founders booked a cabin in the remote Victorian country town of Yandoit via Airbnb, a community market place for accommodations around the world. But when they arrived, they discovered that the cabin had no electricity. “So we go there and had to sit in the dark and cold just talking rather than playing on YouTube or whatever,” said Adam.

“It was kind of confronting, we talked about a lot of stuff that night, but the one thing that really came out of it was the concept behind Jafflechuting.”

One of the most surprising things about the concept is that it is not-forprofit. The owners have decided not to make a profit out of the enterprise, just to maintain its DIY ethos.

“We make the chutes from tape, garbage bags, nylon string and a bit of wire. They take quite a while to put together but that’s part of the fun for us.” Adam said that they haven’t had

much time to socialize or have fun since they started doing this. Most of their time is spent making the chutes.

They also encourage people to recycle the Jafflechutes to avoid generating too much of waste.

The idea has become extremely popular on the internet, gaining much attention and praise on social networks. The founders now want to do events in a handful of cities around the world, starting with the United States. They recently did a Pozible campaign to raise money to take Jafflechutes to North America.

“We were a bit reluctant to go down the crowd-funding route at first, as there are so many campaigns out there with nobler causes than ours,” said Adam. “But for a lossmaking non-business with Americasized ambition, there turned out to be no other option,” he admitted.

Naturally, all three founders have day jobs, which is why they’ve been able to sustain the idea so far. But their next stop is New York, for which they’re going to need all the money they can raise.

If you’re curious but can’t make it to the next Jafflechutes event, try watching their video: ‘The Magic of Jafflechutes’. It’s a nice concept, but I do think grown-ups eating sandwiches off parachutes on the street is a tad bit absurd. I suppose that’s what makes it so popular!

PAGE 36

Peoples Daily, wednesDAY, may 14, 2014

Digest

Could polar bears help cure obesity?

P

olar bears may hold the answer to the obesity crisis in their genes, new research has shown.

A study of the animal’s DNA revealed they are uniquely evolved to cope with a high fat diet that would prove disastrous to a human.

The bears prey on blubberrich seals, and also scavenge the fatty carcasses of whales.

Half their body weight consists of fat and their cholesterol levels are sky high, yet they are untroubled by heart disease.

Now scientists believe they know the polar bear’s secret several mutated genes involved in fatty acid metabolism and cardiovascular function.

The genes appear to be

crucial to the bears’ adaptation to extreme conditions in the high Arctic and may explain how they avoid clogged arteries.

Scientists hope understanding how they work will help them find new ways to fight human obesity.

Lead researcher Professor Rasmus Nielsen, from the University of California at Berkeley, U.S., said: ‘The promise of comparative genomics is that we learn how other organisms deal with conditions that we also are exposed to.

‘For example, polar bears have adapted genetically to a high fat diet that many people now impose on themselves.

‘If we learn a bit about the genes that allows them to deal with that, perhaps that will give us tools to modulate human

Studying how bears cope with a hugely high fat diet could help scientists tackle obesity in humans

Polar bears could hold the key to the obesity crisis in their genes, new research suggests

physiology down the line.’

Colleague Dr Eline Lorenzen, also from Berkeley, said: ‘For polar bears, profound obesity is a benign state.

‘We wanted to understand how they are able to cope with that.’

The study, published in the journal Cell, showed that the polar bear is a much younger species than was previously thought.

Polar bears diverged from brown bears less than 500,000 years ago, compared with previous estimates of up to five million years.

After setting off on their own evolutionary path they rapidly changed to adapt to Arctic life.

Not only did their fur become white, but genes that affected their metabolism and heart function altered.

One gene, known as APOB, plays a role in moving cholesterol

from the bloodstream into cells, thereby reducing the risk of heart disease.

Danish co-author Dr Eske Willerslev, from the University of Copenhagen, said: ‘Such a drastic genetic response to chronically elevated levels of fat and cholesterol in the diet has not previously been reported.

‘It certainly encourages a move beyond the standard model organisms in our search for the underlying genetic causes of human cardiovascular disease.’

The research involved sequencing and analysing the complete genomes, or genetic codes, of 79 polar bears from Greenland and 10 brown bears from around the world.

It comes at a time when the polar bear population - estimated at no more than 20,000 to 25,000 - is declining and the animal’s habitat, Arctic sea ice, rapidly vanishing.

As higher latitudes warm, brown bears are moving further north and occasionally interbreeding with their distant Arctic cousins.

The animals’ ability to interbreed is the result of a genetic relationship a tenth of the distance between humans and chimpanzees, the scientists said.

‘All the unique adaptations polar bears have to the Arctic environment must have evolved in a very short amount of time,’ Professor Nielsen said.

‘These adaptations include not only a change from brown to white fur and development of a sleeker body, but big physiological and metabolic changes as well.

‘There has been a lot of debate about it, but I think we really nailed down what the divergence time is between them, and it is surprisingly recent.’

Source: Dailymail.co.uk

Pregnant drivers are dangerous W

omen who drive while pregnant are much more likely to crash, a new study has revealed.

Researchers found pregnancy is associated with a significant risk of a serious car crash requiring emergency medical care during the second trimester.

A study of more than half a million pregnant women looked at whether common features of pregnancy such

as nausea, fatigue, insomnia, and distraction could contribute to human error increasing the risk of an accident.

During the three years before pregnancy, the women had 6,922 crashes, or 177 per month. During the second trimester, the women had 757 crashes, or 252 per month.

The increased risk during the middle of pregnancy equalled a 42 per cent increase in the number of serious traffic accidents.

Pregnant women are more likely to crash as they are distracted by symptoms such as nausea and tiredness

Lead author Dr Donald Redelmeier, a researcher with the Institute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences (ICES) and a physician at Toronto University’s Department of Medicine in Canada, said: ‘Pregnant women often worry about air flights, scuba diving, hot tubs and other topics in maternal health, yet individuals may overlook traffic crashes despite their greater health risks.’

Statistically, about one in 50 pregnant women will be involved in a motor vehicle crash at some point during pregnancy.

Co-author Dr Jon Barrett, of Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre in Toronto, said: ‘The increase was almost fully explained by multiplevehicle crashes in which the woman had been driving a car - not a truck or other miscellaneous vehicle - and had a high triage urgency.’

Dr Redelmeier said: ‘Almost all traffic crashes could be prevented by a small change in driver behaviour.

‘The absolute risks among pregnant women, however, are still lower than among men of this age.’

The researchers, whose findings

Women are 42 per cent more likely to crash their cars while they are pregnant, new research shows were published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal, did not see similar increases among women who were pedestrians or passengers nor increases in the number of falls.

Dr Redelmeier said: ‘These findings are not a reason to decide not to have children or a reason to stop driving. Instead, the findings primarily emphasise the need to drive more carefully.’

Standard advice includes avoiding excessive speed, signalling turns,

yielding right of way, obeying stop signs, minimising distractions and always using a seatbelt when pregnant.

Dr Redelmeier added: ‘Even a minor motor vehicle crash during pregnancy could lead to irreparable consequences for mother and child.

‘These findings underscore the importance of prevention and indicate that good prenatal care includes safe driving.’

Source: Dailymail.co.uk

Peoples Daily, Wednesday, M ay 14, 2014

PAGE 37

No justification for Col. Nyam’s appointment into confab – Unongo INTERVIEW

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will try to contain myself because I have very strong views about this man and his antecedents. There was a coup by some young officers.

Presumably it was led by a Tiv boy called Major (Gideon) Orkar. I was arrested, the first civilian to be arrested and told that I was arrested because I was involved in the planning and execution of the coup. The only reason was that a Tiv boy was finally made to announce that there was a coup.

I was taken into detention and by my training, after my anger, I decided to find out what was the reason and the basis for a coup. There is a lot on tape which I submitted with the security agents that deal with coups and if you go through it you will discover that I don’t tell too many lies. I was very angry that as a civilian and somebody who did not even know the coup plotters, including Major Orkar - the only thing that connects me with Orkar is that we are from the Tiv race and I was the only important Tiv man around.

But as usual when there is damage, when they want to hurt somebody, when somebody is to die - they come for Paul Unongo. But when they are going to dash people money free as the President is doing at the Conference now - four million Naira per month, I am not qualified. This man called Nyam, when I saw him as one of the advisers to Mr President on the convocation of a National Conference, I was wondering whether the President knew of his antecedents as the major player in that coup plot. He plotted the coup and was given a major assignment to execute in that coup. And in that coup, they had made up their minds on things political that are so similar to what is happening in the country today.

They wanted to eliminate the ‘unreasonable’ influence of the ‘north’. Their decision was that when the coup succeeded, there would be an announcement which Nyam was supposed to make. I was with them for seven months and I decided to be loyal to

In this interview with Emmanuel Yawe, Dr. Paul Unongo, a chieftain of the Northern Elders Forum, while responding to a question seeking his reaction to the appointment of Col. Tony Nyam, a protagonist of the dreaded Gideon Orkar led Coup in 1990, into the ongoing National Conference, recounted his ordeal in the hands of the Military after the botched coup and wondered what motivated President Goodluck Jonathan to appoint the ‘coupist’ a member of the National Conference meant to reposition the country. Excerpts: my country so in my evidence, I made an analysis of the coup: my interpretation of the coup and my advice to the government of the day on what to do to avoid this kind of a coup. Nyam planned that coup with others and brought in the Mukoro’s who were his juniors to help him execute it. The young Tiv man did not even know about the coup until it was 48 hours to execution.

Nyam as the leader of the coup was supposed to read the speech but because he ran away, Orkar who came into the coup late had to broadcast it.

And if you noticed he was even hesitating to read what was written there. Nyam decided that the hated ‘north’ should be excised out of Nigeria viz; Sokoto, Zamfara, Kebbi, Katsina, Kano, Jigawa, Borno and Yobe were all excised.

The decision was that ‘these people we don’t want them in Nigeria’; but if they came back and applied and were repentant, then we may consider and give them conditions for joining Nigeria.

And I felt the government should have known this type of person. And this person, Jonathan proved that he brought him in - for what purpose?

Dr. Paul Unongo He gave Jonathan enough time to leave him alone. When they were going round to collate information on the conference, he went to Edo state where

“

This man called Nyam, when I saw him as one of the advisers to Mr President on the convocation of a National Conference, I was wondering whether the President knew of his antecedents as the major player in that coup plot. He plotted the coup and was given a major assignment to execute in that coup

we have a committed, fine young man, a great gentleman who did a lot in the labour movements and who came into government and proved that he is real and has achieved a lot for his people - Comrade Oshiomole. This man heaped insults on him and tried to get physical with him. All the other members of the committee were embarrassed by his borish behavior and conduct and I had hoped the President would be embarrassed too. They said take him out, he is not good. He was kicked out.

But when the President came to assume the powers to appoint who was to be a member of that Conference, he picked this man and put him there and said Paul Unongo is not qualified. At that point I laughed and concluded that he is not serious. I said well, thank

God people like me are not dead.

I have worked for this country and during the civil war, I gave my life working for federalism as opposed to cessation and confederalism. I would have been killed because of the Nyam coup. I couldn’t have committed a coup and I cannot even shoot a gun. Soldiers are not stupid that when they want to execute a coup they will go and bring a loud mouthed and controversial figure like Paul Unongo.

I have participated in all constitutional conferences since 1957 - the resumed constitutional conference in London. Even this conference of Jonathan, I submitted two papers. But when I saw that the President was committed to this man, I said he did not mean well for either the Conference or for Nigeria. I know what efforts this man made to destroy Nigeria. This is the man who destroyed lives - brilliant, young junior officers. They killed them all. I would have been killed too. Nyam ran away and was enjoying himself in Scotland with his Scottish/British wife.

And Jonathan felt this was the most appropriate man to go to that conference and somebody like Paul Unongo should not go and represent even the bush Tiv people he hates and has no respect for. I was the first Tiv man to teach in the university and Jonathan feels I am not qualified to represent my people. He prefers a man who excised a large chunk out of Nigeria out and gave them conditions that if you want to come back, you must come to me crawling and begging. Is Jonathan trying to make us northerners so annoyed that we will pull out of Nigeria? If that is the case, I find some sense in what the Lamido said. Unfortunately unlike the Lamido who has the option of going to Cameroon, I have no other option but Nigeria.

Peoples Daily, Wednesday, May 14, 2014

PAGE 38

Politics

2015: Northern groups endorse Lamido for Presidency

From Muhammad Ibrahim, Kaduna

P

eoples Democratic Party (PDP) youth groups across northern states under the aegis of Arewa PDP Supporters Network yesterday unanimously endorsed Jigawa state governor , Alhaji Sule Lamido, for position of the President by 2015.

Addressing newsmen in Kaduna, coordinator of the group, Engineer Sani Danbarno,

maintained that the youth groups decided to back Lamido because of President Jonathan’s refusal to handover to a northern candidate come 2015.

According to them, their agreement with Jonathan was for a single term after which he would hand over to a Northerner.

“The agreement was for power to rotate between North and South and his promise to complete Late Umaru Musa

Yar’Adua’s tenure. So we are backing Governor Lamido as Yar’Adua’s successor because of his past experience as a minister and achievements as governor in Jigawa as well as elder statesman role in the north,” he said.

He said “Lamido is a vanguard of democracy, detribalized Nigeria, pioneer member of PDP and particularly his giant strides in agricultural development as well as physical

infrastructure.

“Educational development, youth and women, youth and economic empowerment, construction of new airport , good housing scheme and other infrastructural facilities that he provided in Jigawa as governor with his tenure,” Danbarno said Nigerians and the country at large need someone like Lamido to rescue the country from the current insecurity in the country.

2015: Yero un-electable, says group From Muhammad Ibrahim, Kaduna

C

oncerned Realists of Southern Kaduna, a core Southern Kaduna Group, yesterday said the state Governor Mukhtar Ramalan Yero remains unelectable in their area in 2015.

Addressing newsmen in the state, convener of the group, Dr John Danfulani said Southern Kaduna is a PDP strong hold with almost 80 percent PDP members and that for them to withdraw their support it means by now Yero should start packing his property from government house.

The group further said that nothing is working in the state especially I’m the area of health and education.

“Road and other infrastructural projects are all gone with the wind except for signboards bearing giant portraits of the governor and robust media advertorials presenting failures as achievements, in the name of ‘silent achiever’, instead of ‘open failure,” he said.

The group said no matter the intimidation, they will pursue the cause to logical conclusion as it warned governor Yero to stop persecuting Late Governor Yakowa even in death.

“Deceit and deliberate scuttling of all projects started by late Governor Patrick Ibrahim Yakowa.

Lack of economic patronage of Southern Kaduna business and political class. You may wish to know that only one Southern Kaduna contractor got a contract of just 530, 000 of over 3 billion naira contracts issued by SUBEB,” the group disclosed.

“Denigration of Yakowa in death and accusing the late Governor of leaving him an empty treasury. Arrogance and disrespect to our traditional, religious, political leaders and elder statesmen of Southern Kaduna extraction,” are part of Yero’s sins.

Chieftain of All Progressives Congress (APC), Comrade Timi Frank (middle), speaking at a press briefing on the missing NNPC 20 billion dollars and state of the nation, yesterday in Abuja. With him are Executive Director, Gatekeepers Foundation, Mr. Blessing Agbomhere (right), and Mr. Great Johnson (left).

Photo: Joe Oroye

Jigawa APC inaugurates exco From Ahmed Abubakar, Dutse

A

fter series of postponements, the Jigawa All Progressive Congress (APC), has finally elected its executives through a consensus agreement.

The newly elected Chairman of the party, Alhaji Ado Kiri, called for unity amongst party members ahead if the 2015 general election.

The Chairman who made the call while speaking with newsmen after the inauguration of the elected

officers of the party yesterday in Dutse said their emergence was a mark of a new dawn in the state politics.

Kiri, who was a former commissioner and local government chairman under the Alhaji Ibrahim Saminu Turaki regime, explained that his emergence as the chairman was an act of God as the party supporters unanimously voted for him unopposed.

The chairman pledged to carry all the members and supporters of

the party along.

He said that he was sure of the victory of the party in the forthcoming general election in both the state and at the national level because of the unity among the supporters.

Others elected alongside Kiri include Alhaji Bala Mamsser, Vice Chairman, Alhaji Salisu Zakari, Secretary while Mrs Binta Shuaibu was elected as Woman leader and Alhaji Saidu Miga got the position of Publicity Secretary.

Kebbi APC chairman vows to win 2015 general elections From Ahmed Idris, Birnin Kebbi

T

henewlyelectedAllProgressive Congress party (APC) state chairman, Barrister Attahiru Maccido has assured its member that his administration is going to operate open door policy and promised to deliver the state in the forth coming 2015 general election.

He stated this yesterday while fielding questions from newsmen shortly after he emerged as the substantive state chairman of the APC just as he urged the members to support his leadership in order to win the 2015 general elections.

He said ‘’PDP has noting to show, particular in Kebbi state. I promise you that “insha Allah” we would win our election and rule Kebbi state’,’ he said.

Maccido polled 668 votes to beat his closest rival, Alh. Attahiru Abubakar Bunu Jega who polled 598 votes.

Announcing the election result which took place at the Haliru Abdu Stadium in Birnin Kebbi yesterday, the Chairman of the electoral committee, Dan Buba Mohammed said the election was free and fair as the committee followed due process of accrediting all the delegates.

“You are all leaving witness of how all the delegates were screened before moving them to a neutral venue to cast their votes. All the agents of both contestants were present and the ballot boxes for all the contestants vividly shown, votes were casted by the delegates , Barrister Maccido scored 668 while Alh, Bunu got 598 , 7 votes were invalid”, he declared.

Reacting shortly after the results were announced, Abubakar Mohammed Mahe, the agent of Alh. Bunu Attahiru faction out-rightly condemned and rejected the result as inconclusive and full of irregularities.

“We are not satisfied with the result as the number of votes supposed to be cast is 1,252 but the number of cast votes reached 1,266, , we totally reject the result and will appeal against it”, he said.

Alh Sani Dodo, one of the APC starlwarts in Kebbi said that in every election there must be a winner and a loser. He called on all party members to rally round the party and get set for 2015 elections.

Kaduna: Bye-election to holds in Kauru/Chawai Constituency June From Femi Oyelola, Kaduna

B

ye-election to fill the vacuum created by the death of a member of Kaduna State House of Assembly representing Kauru/Chawai, Hon. Shuaibu M. Tukura, has been slated for 21st June, 2014.

This was decided at the

stakeholders meeting between the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), political parties, security and other stakeholders at the INEC headquarters in Kaduna yesterday.

Although, INEC had earlier proposed that the bye election be held on the 24th May, 2014, but the political parties representatives,

especially from the opposition All Progressive Congress (APC), disagreed with the proposal, arguing that the time frame was too short for them to put their houses in order and campaign for the poll.

They however rescheduled the INEC proposed date and gave wider period for the political parties to campaign, as well as slated the bye

election date for 21st June, 2014.

Earlier in his address, the Kaduna INEC Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Alhaji Haliru Aliyu Tambuwal informed the meeting that the Commission has been organizing series of activities since 2011 to date aimed at achieving a free, fair and credible election come 2015.

Peoples Daily, Wednesday, May 14, 2014

PAGE 39

News Extra

Chibok: Group urges girls’ parents not to lose hope From Mustapha Isah Kwaru, Maiduguri

A

group of concerned Borno citizens, under the auspices of Southern Borno Development Association (SBDA), has appealed to parents and guardians of over 200 schoolgirls abducted in

Chibok not to lose hope on their daughters.

Chairman of the group, Yahaya Gaya, who spoke at a press briefing, noted that they are confident the girls would return home safely soon.

“We urged the parents and the community not to lose hope that they will soon be re-united

with their daughters”, it said.

The group said it was aware of the murderous and blood-letting acts of Boko Haram, which it described as the worse in history of mankind, but assured that the concern, support and prayers of Nigerians and the world would turn their gloom to hope and finally joy.

“The psychological trauma which the victims and their parents are undergoing will leave a permanent imprint on their minds. To imagine what the victims are undergoing in the hands of the bandits, who are masquerading under the banner of Islam, only send chills down our spines,” the group said.

Bash Ali says he is broke, wants NEXIM Bank MD sacked

OkeiOdumakin, Fela’s son want AU meeting on terrorism

By Clem Khena-Ogbena

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he cruiserweight world champion, Bash Ali, told reporters yesterday he was dead broke, while he demanded for the immediate sack of the incumbent Managing Director, Nigeria Export-Import (NEXIM) Bank, Mr. Robert Orya, over the latter’s failure to implement provisions of the Local Organising Committee (LOC) mandate on ‘Bash Ali Guinness Book of Records Title Fight’.

Ali was visibly angry at the attitude of Orya, who refused to receive him into his office, when the boxer visited the bank to meet with the MD and find out why the bank had not been forthcoming with regards to implementing the mandate of the LOC, inaugurated by President Goodluck Jonathan, on January 7, 2014.

According to Ali, he was denied access into the bank’s premises, and Bank of Industry (BoI), which were expected to generate funds to sponsor the fight scheduled for August this year. Not even with the intervention of the Divisional Police Officer of the area, N.B Garba, could change the mind of the NEXIM boss.

According to him, “At least, the sum of five hundred million dollars (US$500m) as projected income is being expected from the fight”, and the money so realized would be used to established world’s standard five sports academies, nationwide.

Ali said the mandate required NEXIM Bank, being a major member of the committee, alongside BoI, to fund the fight.

Several frantic efforts made by our reporter to meet the NEXIM MD for his own comment proved futile.

This visit was the second of its kind this month; Ali and some members of the LOC first visited the bank for the same reason last week Tuesday, but the MD allegedly refused to give them audience or welcome them.

It claimed that Boko Haram insurgents were holding the country hostage due to “failure of intelligence and political manipulation.

“We should ask ourselves how come that a small group of people has come to hold an entire state, albeit a region and country, hostage? it stated.

From Akilani Abdullah, Lagos

T L-R: Vice-Chairman, One World Media, Phil Harding, Managing Editor, Premium Times, Musikilu Mojeed, and Project Manager (Africa), BBC Media Action, Prue Clarke, during the presentation to Premium Times with Special Category award in this year’s One World Media Awards, recently at Kings Place, in London

We must fight insurgency to its end - Gov. Aliyu From Yakubu Mustapha, Minna

N

iger state governor, Dr. Mu’azu Babangida Aliyu, has urged the Federal Government to urgently put in place all measures to fight the dreaded Boko Haram radical sect, to finish and expose the sponsors, collaborators of the sect.

Aliyu, who made his feelings known when he received the 2013 Christian Pilgrimage report

at Government House in Minna, yesterday, said the termination of the activities of the dreaded sect members should also lead to the revelation of all their collaborators.

The Governor appreciated the fact that the Federal Government is already receiving assistance from the international communities on the fight against insurgents in the country, but declared that “political will must come to bear in fighting Boko Haram”.

Aliyu applauded the peaceful conduct of the state pilgrims to the Holy Land and pledged that he will continue to sponsor adherents of the two major religions to Jerusalem and Mecca, because it will assist to strengthen their faith, before announcing a 15-man team to prepare for this year’s pilgrimage to Jerusalem.

The team will be led by Barrister Abraham Yisa and assisted by Reverend Musa Dada.

Western education is not a sin – Don

By Adedoyin Ojosipe

A

n Islamic scholar and CEO, De-Minaret International, Abumazeedah Abdurra’uf Ibn Sa’eed, has debunked the claim by the Boko Haram insurgents that western education is a sin.

This is against the backdrop of various killings, maiming and kidnap of students across Nigeria, which has taken another dreadful dimension, as the over 200 kidnapped female students of GGSS Chibok are yet to be found.

In a welcome address at the opening of the 4th edition of the International Islamic book exhibition, held at the national mosque, Abdurra’uf, who was also the chairman of the event explained

that there is no separation between western and Islamic education as far as knowledge seeking is concerned.

He not only blamed the belief on ignorance but also on misinterpretation of Islam to Muslim youths and the world at la rge.

He maintained that “in the past, we have among our ancestors, Muslim intellectuals who were basically mathematicians, like Aljebri, like Alberini; these were Muslims and they were mathematicians.”

The Islamic scholar also added that “though Prophet Mohammed never postulated mathematical theories, but those who came after him, developed a technique of mathematics and today, it is

beneficial to the whole world. So to assume that western education is a sin is indeed a thought of the misguided mind, it’s not a part of Islamic thinking.”

He regretted that such heinous activities have succeeded in creating fear and unconvincing doubts in the minds of people of different faiths, especially Christians.

In his words: “Why is it that we are now being pushed to the defensive on a daily basis? Don’t we now tremble with inferiority complex each time the church blames us for any crisis?

“The effort we could have employed to teach them about our religion is now being used to redeem the shattered image of our faith”, he lamented.

he late music icon’s son, Fela Anikulapo Kuti, Femi Kuti and the president, Women Arise Group, Dr. JoeOkei-Odumakin, has urged the Federal Government to call on African leaders for an urgent meeting on terrorism, so as to find a lasting solution to menace and to give headway in rescuing the abducted Chibok schoolgirls.

He said terrorism is not just a problem that is facing Nigeria alone at this trying time, but an international problem that have been rocking the African nation.

Kuti, while speaking with journalists on Monday, at a protest, organised by the Woman Arise group, to seek the release of the abducted schoolgirls, said President Goodluck Jonathan should have meet with other African countries’ president before now to have discussed the security issues, so as to avoid the scourge that is currently making waves in Nigeria.

Kuti, who spoke in an emotion-laden voice urged the president to act and be seen acting without any delay in their mission to rescue the abducted girls.

Meanwhile, Lagos state governor, Babatunde Fashola, while responding to the demand of the Women Arise group by assuring them of delivering their letter to president, describe the Chibok abduction as ‘a dark experience’.

Speaking earlier, the group’s president, Dr. Okei-Odumakin, urged the president to put all hands on the deck in order to rescue the abducted girls.

“In your last media chat, you made reference to the fact that these are trying times, not just for Nigerians but also for the world.

However, we need to see you walk the walk, not just talk the talk, as demonstrated by strong and compassionate leaders in other climes”, he said.

PAGE 40

Photo Splash

Peoples Daily, Wednesday, May 14, 2014

Sheikh Ahmed Lemu, and his wife, Mrs. Aisha Lemu, carrying placards protesting against the abduction of Chbok school girls, yesterday in Minna.

Christians and Muslims women in a peaceful protest over the abduction of Chibok school girls, on Monday in Bauchi.

Photo: NAN

Bring Back Our Girls group staging a protest over the abduction of Chbok school girls, yesterday in Lagos.

Photo: Olawale Rotimi

Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Plateau state chapter and Civil Society Organizations protesting over the abduction of Chibok school girls, yesterday in Jos. Photo: NAN

Nigerians in China join “Bring Back Our Girls� campaign during the visit of Senate President David Mark to Beijing, China, yesterday.

SporT 41 Page

PEOPLES DAILY, wednesday, may 14, 2014

sports@peoplesdailyng.com, SMS- 08142929046, 08036258222, albertakota@yahoo.com

World Cup: Orleans invest chairman tips Nigeria, Italy for final

Stories by Albert Akota

T

he Chairman of Orleans Invest West Africa Limited, Mr. Gabriele Volpi has tipped former world champions, Italy and current Africa champions, Nigeria for the final of the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.

The Super Eagles best outing at the quadrennial global football showpiece were at USA’94 and France’98 World Cups where the side exited at the second round stage of the competition.

But Volpi, in a chat with sports reporters in Abuja, expressed confident that Coach Stephen Keshi and his boys will emulate the Nigeria’s U-17 team, Golden Eaglets who won the FIFA U-17 World Cup last year in UEA and do country proud in Brazil.

“I hope Nigeria will do exactly what the U-17 team achieved last year in Dubai, though; it is difficult to say because you have Brazil, Argentina, Spain and too many big teams, but Nigeria would get to the final.

“Nigeria won the Africa Cup of Nations last year and also in Brazil for the Confederation Cup. “I am tipping Nigeria and Italy to play final. Italy is one of the best team in Europe and I believe they will reach the final.

“I hope the Super Eagles will do the same as the U-17 team that won the FIFA U-17 World Cup last year, but I can predict because Brazil, Argentina, Spain can’t overrun the Eagles but Nigeria is doing very well as well as others Africa teams in general,” Volpi said.

Volpi said that it was possible to perform well in the 2014 World Cup and exceed the expectations of the fans if preparations could start early.

With the caliber of players in the squad, I believe they can do very well.

It is achievable, if they put in necessary work from now until next month.

“I want the players to listen to the coach and follow his orders because I know Stephen Keshi knows what to do,’’ he advised.

Nigeria is placed in Group F along with Bosnia-Herzegovina, Argentina and Iran and the Eagles will take on Iran in their first match on June 19 while Italy grouped among two former world champions, Uruguay, England and Costa Rica to contest with in group D.

Mr. Gabriele Volpi

...Okocha wants Keshi to drill Mikel

T

he Former Super Eagles skipper Austin ‘Jay Jay’ Okocha is worried with the bench role Super Eagles’ midfielder maestro John Obi Mikel played at Chelsea in most matches in the just concluded season as the World Cup tournament draw nearer.

The former Bolton Wanderers of England midfielder disclosed that since Mikel play a pivotal role in Eagles’ campaign at the World Cup then there is every need for the Coach Stephen Keshi and his assistants to drill Mikel to enable him be in top form in Brazil.

The former PSG opined that if Mikel can be more attackminded should the technical crew do away with sentiment and drill him for the interest of Nigeria to excel at the .world fiesta.

Okocha also charged the former Lyn Oslo of Norway player that this World Cup may mark the turning point for him provided he is ready to up his game. ‘‘This is the biggest opportunity for Mikel to seize control of the midfield and prove to Nigerians that he is capable of fitting into that role without questions. For me, this is Mikel’s World Cup. He did it very well at the Africa Cup of Nations in South Africa and should be able to do better because the World Cup is a bigger stage,’’ said Okocha.

He added that with the support from corporate bodies and the Federal Government, the Eagles have no reason not to perform creditably when hostilities begin in the South American country.

The Eagles are drawn in Group F with Iran, Argentina and Bosnia-Herzegovina.

Yuguda lays foundation stone of Bauchi Technical Centre The city of Bauchi was adorned in all glorious colours yesterday as the Executive Governor of the State, Mallam Isa Yuguda laid the foundation stone of the NFF Regional Technical Centre, the first of the six planned for all the geopolitical zones in the country.

A mammoth crowd welcomed the NFF delegation led by its President, Alhaji Aminu Maigari at the Bauchi Airport, with men, women and the youth as well as horse-riders showing their joy on the historic occasion.

Speaking earlier, Mr. Kablan congratulated the NFF for being proactive and desirous of the best for Nigerian football, while wishing the Super Eagles the very best at the 2014 FIFA World Cup finals in Brazil.

NFF President Aminu Maigari lauded Governor Yuguda for providing the generous land space for the project, while also commending FIFA for readiness to fund the project and Kablan for his commitment and drive.

In his goodwill message, Senator Gumba lauded the performance of the present NFF administration led by Maigari, and Gaiya insisted that the Maigari team deserves a second term of office on the evidence of several achievements over the past four years.

Yuguda lays foundation stone of Bauchi Technical Centre

T

John Obi Mikel

he city of Bauchi was adorned in all glorious colours yesterday as the Executive Governor of the State, Mallam Isa Yuguda laid the foundation stone of the NFF Regional Technical Centre, the first of the six planned for all the geo-political zones in the country.

A mammoth crowd welcomed the NFF delegation led by its President, Alhaji Aminu Maigari at the Bauchi Airport, with men, women and the youth as well as horse-riders showing their joy on the historic occasion.

Speaking earlier, Mr. Kablan congratulated the NFF for being proactive and desirous of the best for Nigerian football, while wishing the Super Eagles the very best at the 2014 FIFA World Cup finals in Brazil.

NFF President Aminu Maigari lauded Governor Yuguda for providing the generous land space for the project, while also commending FIFA for readiness to fund the project and Kablan for his commitment and drive.

In his goodwill message, Senator Gumba lauded the performance of the present NFF administration led by Maigari, and Gaiya insisted that the Maigari team deserves a second term of office on the evidence of several achievements over the past four years.

PEOPLES DAILY, wednesDAY, may 14, 2014

Page 42

Sports

Eagles will soar in Brazil- Enyeama

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he Super Eagles vice captain and Lille Metropole of France shot stopper, Vincent Enyeama, has thanked Nigerians for the support he has received from them, which he said also made it possible for him to be named the best African Player in the French Ligue 1 this season.

Enyeama, who spoke from his France based said he was delighted that he was picked as Africa’s best player in France and has been totally enthralled by the huge support of Nigerians over the award, promising that he will not fail the country during Mundial 2014 in Brazil.

“Now the leagues are almost over across the world and all of us have a new focus, which is the World Cup, we will go there and enjoy ourselves and also excel for ourselves and the country. I can’t wait for the World Cup to start”, he declared.

On his inspiration ahead of the World Cup, Enyeama widely regarded as Africa’s best goalkeeper of the modern era declared that it has always been God. “God has always been the greatest supporter I have.

He has always been there for me when I needed support and He has continued to inspire me to greater heights. Apart from that the support I get from my family and Nigerians have been massive inspiration for me, I pray that the World Cup will be a crowning glory for me, the team and all Vincent Enyeama Nigerians”.

Imoke picks strong team to revive Unicem Rovers

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Liyel Imoke

CHANGE OF NAME I, FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MASTER OWOBU EOMOSELE THADDEUS, NOW TO BE KNOWN AS OWOBU EROMOSELE OKOYOMON. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. ABTBUTH BAUCHI and GENERAL PUBLIC PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

LOSS OF DOCUMENT

This is to inform the general public of the LOSS OF ORIGINAL POWER OF ATTORNEY IN FAVOR OF ORANGE-TREE ESTATE LTD, DATED 24/10/2013 FROM MOHAMMED MUSA ISA, ORIGINAL LETTER OF ACKNOWLEDGEMENT DATED 04/28/05, ORIGINAL REVENUE COLLECTOR’S RECIEPTS NOS & AMOUNT: N2,483,370.00 (RECIEPT NOS. 000060831 DATED 15/07/2010): N99,334.80 (DATED 03/01/2013, NOS 000139305); N2,813,284.00 (NOS. 000007189 DATED 29/04/2008); N208,603.08 (NOS.000109489 DATED 0501/2012); N276895.76 (NOS. 000060832 DATED 15/07/2010) AND ORIGINAL R OF O DATED 11/02/03, ORIGINAL RECIEPT OF PAYMENT FOR POLICE ENTRY FEE OF N110,000, POWER OF ATTORNEY FROM FIDELITY BANK. ACADEMIC CERTIFICATES, CAR ORIGINAL DOCUMENT AND CASH OF N2,000,000.00, BELONGING TO UKA JESSE ONYEKACHI. All efforts made to trace these missing items proved abortive. If found, please return to the nearest police station.

CHANGE OF NAME I, FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MISS TUKU BASILIA ETTA, NOW TO BE KNOWN AS MRS. OKOYOMON BASILIA. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. ABTBUTH BAUCHI and GENERAL PUBLIC PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

he Cross River state Governor and the number one governor supporter of the national teams, Senator Liyel Imoke, has made good his plans to make football a thriving enterprise in the state by appointing a robust team to reinvent Unicem Rovers of Calabar in the coming years.

State Sports Commissioner, Hon Patrick Ugbe, said in statement that former Chairman of the Cross River State Sports Council and respected DJ and sportscaster, Maurice Inok, will head a 12-man management committee of the club that includes some of the best hands in the football game in the country.

He also revealed that Gov Imoke has been praying daily for an excellent outing for the national team come Brazil 2014.

Inok, will be assisted by Paul Atila Edum, while Paul Akoli and Charles Unoh Eko will serve in the management committee. Okori Ijani will serve as Team manager, Ene Asuquo as Media Officer, Hon Ukot

Obono Eno will be Marketing Manager, while George Obi Etu will serve as Team Secretary in a determined force to make the club a brand name in Nigeria.

On the technical side, Imoke picked former Super Eagles midfielder, John Okon Ene as Acting Head Coach, he will be assisted by John Aniah, while former goalkeeper Ifeanyi Harcourt will serve as the goalkeepers’, Michael Ushie was named team Coordinator.

Speaking on his appointment, Inok said it will witness a new phase in Nigerian football management as he was ready to go to the private sector to solicit for support even as he believes he will not be abandoned by the state government.

“I thank Governor Imoke, his deputy and the Sports Commissioner for this challenge and I wish to assure them that I will not fail in this onerous task of rediscovering football at the highest level in Cross River state”, he declared.

CHANGE OF NAME

CHANGE OF NAME

I, FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS OKOLI CHIGOZIE OKEKE OF NO 8, EGBEYEMI STREET, AMADIA OJOKORO, NOW TO BE KNOWN AS OKOLI CHIGOZIE JUSTUS. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

I, FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MRS. LAMI AHMED SAID, NOW TO BE KNOWN AS MRS. LAMI BUBA. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. SPECIAL SCHOOL MANAGEMENT BOARD BAUCHI and GENERAL PUBLIC PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

CHANGE OF NAME I, FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS COMFORT MUSA, NOW TO BE KNOWN AS COMFORT KENNEDY. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. ABTBUTH BAUCHI and GENERAL PUBLIC PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

CHANGE OF NAME I, FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS HANNATU ISIYAKU, NOW TO BE KNOWN AS MRS. HANNATU ADAMS AUDU VALID UNIVERSITY OF MAIDUGURI. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. ABTBUTH BAUCHI and GENERAL PUBLIC PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

CHANGE OF NAME I, FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MISS LILIAN CHIKA OBINWANNE, NOW TO BE KNOWN AS MRS. LILIAN IMAOBONG INYANG. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

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PEOPLES DAILY, wednesday, may 14, 2014

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PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

HEALING WATERS DELIVERANCE MINISTRY

APOSTOLIC ANOINTING AND FIRE OF PRAYER MINISTRY

The general public is hereby informed that the above named ministry has applied to the corporate affairs commission for registration under part “C” of the companies and allied matters act 1 of 1990.

PUBLIC NOTICE SAVIOUR IN ACTION MINISTRY

Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the registrar-general, corporate affairs commission, plot 420 Tigris crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Garki, Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

SIGNED: BARR.KAYODE LAWANI 08095336644

The general public is hereby informed that the above named ministry has applied to the corporate affairs commission for registration under part “C” of the companies and allied matters act 1 of 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1.AKINSETE OKELOLA HENRY - CHAIRMAN 2.BABAFEMI OGUNLEYE - SECRETARY 3.FREDRICK ADEDOTUN OSHIYEMI – MEMBER 4.AKINSETE DEBORAH OLUWATOYIN - MEMBER 5.GRACE ADENIKE JOEL - MEMBER AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1.TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST. 2.TO EVANGELIZE AND WIN SOULS FOR CHRIST. Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the registrar-general, corporate affairs commission, plot 420 Tigris crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Garki, Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

SIGNED: RUMI & ASSOCIATES 08022551973

The general public is hereby informed that the above named ministry has applied to the corporate affairs commission for registration under part “C” of the companies and allied matters act 1 of 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. PASTOR ONYINYE IWOBI DIKE - CHAIRMAN 2. PASTOR ELIZABETH IWOBI - SECRETARY 3. ELDER OSITA OKEKE 4. ELDER PETER OBU THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1. TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST TO EVERY NATION. 2. TO RAISE A GOD FEARING GENERATION. 3. TO DISCIPLE MEN TO FULFIL THE GREAT COMMISSION AND FOSTER PEACE. Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the registrar-general, corporate affairs commission, plot 420 Tigris crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Garki, Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

SIGNED: BARR.NATH OBIOKOLIE 07030964460

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

VOICE PROPHETIC OUTREACH MINISTRY

MASJID ABDUL KAREEM AL-ADABIY SOCIETY OF NIGERIA

THE TRANSFORMATION SUPPORT AND EMPOWERMENT ORGANISATION

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1.PST. SAMUEL OHIWERE 2.MRS BERNICE OHIWERE 3.MRS CAROLINE IRUAREGBON 4.MRS EUNICE POPOOLA AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1.TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST.

The general public is hereby informed that the above named ministry has applied to the corporate affairs commission for registration under part “C” of the companies and allied matters act 1 of 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. PASTOR OMOGAGA JONAH OKE – FOUNDER 2. PASTOR MRS OMOGAGA JONAH FLORENCE 3. OMOGAGA JAMES 4. LELEKUMOR COLLINS AMADI 5. AGHOREOR PATIENCE ADIRE 6. ORUWARE DAVID TAMARAKUROR THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1.TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF JESUS CHRIST. 2.TO RAISE A GOD FEARING GENERATION. 3.TO DISCIPLE MEN TO FULFIL THE GREAT COMMISSION AND FOSTER PEACE. Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the registrar-general, corporate affairs commission, plot 420 Tigris crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Garki, Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

SIGNED: BARR. CHRISTY OKETA 08036370440

PUBLIC NOTICE SOULS WITH COMPASSION ORGANIZATION

The general public is hereby notified that the above named Organization has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for Addition of Trustees, And AMENDMENT OF ITS CONSTITUTION under Part ‘C’ of the Company and Allied Matters Act, 1990.

THE OLD TRUSTEES ARE: 1. MRS. CHINYERE BENEDICTA OKEKE - RETAINED 2. MR. GODWIN ANAYO OKEKE - RETAINED 3. MR. IKECHUKWU JULIAN OKORO - RETAINED 4. MRS. LILYPAT NGOZI IZUEGBUNAM - RETAINED THE NEWLY ADDITIONAL TRUSTEES ARE: 1. DR. SHULLAM CHINYERE FRANCISCA ONYEMAOBI 2. MR. COLEMAN CHINEDU THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES REMAIN THE SAME Any objection to the application should be forwarded to the Registrar-General, Corporate AffairS Commission, Plot 420, Tigris Crescent, Off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, P.M.B. 198, Maitama, Abuja within Twenty-Eight (28) days from the date of this publication.

Signed: CHAIRMAN

The general public is hereby informed that the above named society has applied to the corporate affairs commission for registration under part “C” of the companies and allied matters act 1 of 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1.ALHAJI IBRAHIM MOHAMMED LAWAL 2.ALHAJI KABIR ADEKUNLE OYEWOLE 3.HAJIA SHAKIRAT ADEJUMO THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1.TO CREATE FORUM FOR WORSHIP. 2.TO ENCOURAGE ADHERENT OF AL ISLAM TO PRAY FOR PEACE AND PROGRESS OF SOCIETY. Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the registrar-general, corporate affairs commission, plot 420 Tigris crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Garki, Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

SIGNED: SECRETARY

PUBLIC NOTICE CATHOLIC CANON LAW SOCIETY OF NIGERIA

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Bishop Hilary O. Okeke 2. Bishop Peter Okpaleke 3. Msgr. Steve Uzomah 4. Rev. Fr. Jonas Benson Okoye 5. Rev. Fr. Donatus Nnagha 6. Sr. Austin Iwuoha THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE: 1.To contribute to the propagation of the gospel via canon law.

2.To seek the protection of rights in the church.

3. To work towards the welfare of members ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL. CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUYI IRONSI STREET. PMB 198, MATIAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28TH DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION. SIGNED: Ilobi uchenna j.destiny chambers,suite a14,new Banex plaza,Wuse 2.abuja

The general public is hereby notified that the above named Organisation has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under Part ‘C’ of the Company and Allied Matters Act, 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: (1) IDOKO HILARY NDUKA (2) HON. BASIL EZEH (3) PROPHET BERNARD BASSA NGER (4) MRS. HELEN EZEH (5) DR. EMEMOBONE INYANG THE AIM AND OBJECTIVE: 1. To help the less privileged.

Any objection to the registration should be forwarded to the Registrar-General, Corporate AffairS Commission, Plot 420, Tigris Crescent, Off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, P.M.B. 198, Maitama, Abuja within Twenty-Eight (28) days from the date of this publication.

SIGNED: Secretary

PUBLIC NOTICE CRETWAN EMNET CHRISTIAN COMMUNITY

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1.PROF. EMI SPIFF 2.REV. (MRS) BEATRICE LAWRENCE EKPEBU 3.MRS FLORA EBI-WILLIAM 4.MRS BOKEPERE ALEK ADEGHE 5.MRS JUSTINA DOUGLAS CRAWEL 6.MRS EMILIAN BRIBENA 7.REV. (MRS) JANE PODOKI ALEK 8.BARR. MRS TAMARAKEPREYE ONANUGA THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE: 1.TO ERADICATE POVERTY AND HUNGER BY ENGAGING IN VOCATIONAL TRANINGS AND CAPACITY BUILDING SERVICE FOR THE POOR. 2.TO PROVIDE FINANCIAL SUPPORT, EDUCATIONAL DEVELOPMENT AND RIGHTS PROTECTION SERVICES TO THE INDIGENT. 3.TO ENGAGE IN REHABILITATION FOR STREET CHILDREN,DESTITUTE WOMEN AND YOUTHS WITH DRUG ADDICTION PROBLEMS. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL. CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUYI IRONSI STREET. PMB 198, MATIAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28TH DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION. SIGNED:BARR.HOPE OMOROGIE

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

THE NIGERIAN ASSOCIATION OF PUBLIC ACCOUNTS COMMITTEES

EVIDENCE OF JESUS INT’ L CHURCHES

VICTORY HEALING CHRISTIAN CHURCH

The general public is hereby notified that the above named MINISTRY has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matters Act of 1990.

The general public is hereby notified that the above named MINISTRY has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matters Act of 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. REV. DR JOSEPH CHIBUZO NKWACHUKWU 2. PETER ROBINSON CHIDIEBERE 3. IKWUEZE CLETUS NNABUGWU 4. NKWACHUKWU DOMINION OGANIRU

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. VICTORIA O. MUONEKE 2. EVANG. MISS. UJUNWA P MUONEKE 3. EVANG. OBINNA V. MUONEKE 4. EVANG. MISS ONYEKACHI M. AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1. TO SPREAD THE GOSPEL OF OUR LORD JESUS. 2. TO REACH OUT TO WIDOWS , UNDERPRIVILEGED AND ORPHANS 3. TO ORGANIZE CRUSADES, EVANGELISM AND TEACH THE WORD OF GOD.

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED ASSOCIATION HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1.SENATOR AHMED I. LAWAN - CHAIRMAN 2.SEN. AHMED ABDUL NINGI 3.HON. SOLOMON ADEOLA 4.HON. AUWAL JATAU THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE: 1.TO DEVELOP STANDARD PROCEDURE AND PROCESSES TO ACHIEVE THE CONSTITUTIONAL MANDATE OF THE PUBLIC ACCOUNTS COMMITTEES. 2.TO PROVIDE AVENUE FOR INTERACTION,SHARING OF EXPERIENCE,IDEAS AND INFORMATION AMONG MEMBERS ON ISSUES RELATING TO THE FUNCTIONS OF PUBLIC ACCOUNTS COMMITTEE. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGITRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL. CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUYI IRONSI STREET. PMB 198, MATIAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28TH DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION. SIGNED:SENATOR AHMED I. LAWAN CHAIRMAN

AIM AND OBJECTIVE: 1. PREACHING THE WORD OF GOD 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: SECRETARY

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. CHIINWENGOZI AMADIKWA 08176960558

PEOPLES DAILY, wednesday, may 14, 2014

Page 44

PUBLIC NOTICE PEACE COURT ESTATE MUSLIM COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED ASSOCIATION HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. ALH. AUWALU MUKTARI 2. ALH. ADEKUNLE KASIM 3. ALH. MOHAMMED SHEHU 4. ALH. SHUAIB MUSTAPHA AGBARERE 5.ALH. ABDULRASHEED O. SHEKONI 6.ALH. BALA USMAN BAPPAH 7.ALH. MUSTAPHA KUTAMA THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE: 1.TO CATER FOR THE WELFARE OF MEMBERS. 2.TO PURSUE AND PROTECT THE COMMON INTEREST OF ITS MEMBERS. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL. CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUYI IRONSI STREET. PMB 198, MATIAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28TH DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION.

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

CLARA VIRTUOUS WOMEN FOUNDATION

GRASSROOT SUPPORTERS OF SUPER EAGLES DEVELOPMENT INITIATIVE

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED FOUNDATION HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. CLARA IGWE 2. MR. FEMI FALANA SAN 3. DORIS IGWE 4. MARIA ABBASS 5. AUSTIN KEKE THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE: 1. EMPOWERING WOMEN IN SKILL ACQUISITION. 2. UPHOLDING THE DIGNITY OF WOMANHOOD. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL. CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUYI IRONSI STREET. PMB 198, MATIAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28TH DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION.

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED INITIATIVE HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. OKEYINKA MATTHEW ABIODUN -Founder/president 2.OKEYINKA JOSHUA OMOLADE - Member 3.OKoro Anthony chukwuka - Secretary 4.Seriki Tunde Akeem - Auditor 5.Okeyinka Deborah yetunde Bisola - member 6.Mohammed Sa’idu Madaki - Financial secretary 7.Oshokoya Tosin kunle - Treasurer 8.Chukwu Emmanuel Nntewe - Public Relations Officer 9.Okeyinka Israel Ademola - Member THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE: 1.To promote sports at the grassroots level.

2. To support super eagles at the grassroot levels.

ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL. CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUYI IRONSI STREET. PMB 198, MATIAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28TH DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION.

SIGNED: MUSTAPHA S. AGBARERE

SIGNED: SAMUEL OGALA

SIGNED:Barr. NNUBIA CHIOMA JUSTINA

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

FESTUS GEORGE MINISTRY

INITIATIVE FOR RURAL REVIVAL AND ENLIGHTENMENT

CIVIC RIGHTS AWARENESS AND YOUTH EMPOWERMENT

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED MINISTRY HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1.PASTOR FESTUS ANENE IGWILO 2.ANYAOHA GILBERT EJIKEME 3.IGWILO JENNIFER CHIAMAKA THE AIM AND OBJECTIVE: 1.TO PREACH THE TOTAL GOSPEL OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST EVERY WHERE MAN IS FOUND ON EARTH. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL. CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUYI IRONSI STREET. PMB 198, MATIAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28TH DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION. SIGNED: SECRETARY

PUBLIC NOTICE

THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT THE ABOVE NAMED ASSOCIATION HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION ABUJA FOR THE CHANGE AND APPOITMENT OF TRUSTEES AS HITHERTO REGISTERED ON FIFTH DAY OF OCTOBER,2011 UNDER PART ‘C’ OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1.MRS. NGOZI OKECHUKWU, 2.MRS. FLORENCE IHEKE - REMOVED 3.IDE IFEANYI OKECHUKWU, 4.CHIEF DOM EBERE ARIRIGUZO - REMOVED 5.CHIEF DR. FRANCIS ABGAEZE EGU - REMOVED, 6.DR. MRS. CHINYERE ANYAOGU - REMOVED, 7.DR. EME OKORO 8.BARR. MARTINS EGESI AGU - REMOVED, 9.ENGR. KINGSLEY IHEKE THE ADDITIONAL TRUSTEES ARE: 1.DR. (MRS.) MAUREEN AGHUKWA, 2.PROF. (MRS.) PATRICIA UKAIGWE 3.PASTOR IKECHUKWU ANYA, 4.BARR. CHIKA OKOLO 5.MISS. COMMY IHEKE PROPOSED NEW TRUSTEES: 1.MRS. NGOZI OKECHUKWU 2.IDE IFEANYI OKECHUKWU 3.DR. EME OKORO 4.ENGR. KINGSLEY IHEKE 5.DR. (MRS.) MAUREEN AGHUKWA 6.PROF. (MRS.) PATRICIA UKAIGWE 7.PASTOR IKECHUKWU ANYA 8.BARR. CHIKA OKOLO 9.MISS. COMMY IHEKE ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRARGENERAL. CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUYI IRONSI STREET. PMB 198, MATIAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28TH DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION.

PUBLIC NOTICE REDEEMED BODY OF CHRIST MISSIONARY CHURCH

HILLS-CITY INTERNATIONAL CHRISTIAN CENTRE

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1.CHUKWUNONSO MADUKAEJAKA - CHAIRMAN 2.MARTIN OFORMA - MEMBER 3.IFEANYI EZEBUIFE - MEMBER

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Victory Michael - Chairman 2. Oladimeji Oyeyemi 3. Toyin Joseph Adesope 4. Miss Ntuk Rosemary Ekaete 5. Mr. Akelachi Amadichukwu 6.Miss. Edith Isabu - Secretary THE AIM AND OBJECTIVE: 1. Raising Leaders for 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, MATIAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28TH DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION. SIGNED: Barr: Grace Okwoli 08030967528,08077508799

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

Welders association new owerri

DANAKY YOUNG PEOPLE ENLIGHTENMENT FOUNDATION

Sign-okechukwu samuel emefu.

ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL. CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUYI IRONSI STREET. PMB 198, MATIAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28TH DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION.

PUBLIC NOTICE THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED CENTRE HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO 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 association HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990. the trustees 1.okechukwu samuel emefu 2.modestus nwaneri chukwunonye 3.henry onyema ugochukwu 4.okwu umunna 5.linus ezeala 6.prince oluchi madu. aims1.to unite all the welders in new owerri 2.to collectiverly carter for the welfare of welders 3.to seek government assistance as a group.

ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL. CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUYI IRONSI STREET. PMB 198, MATIAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28TH DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION.

THE AIM AND OBJECTIVE: 1. TO EDUCATE THE YOUTH ON HOW TO BE RESPONSIBLE IN THE VOTING SYSTEM.

SIGNED: Barr. Amaka Amechi Ene.

NDI-NDI UNITED FRIENDS CLUB OF NIGERIA

ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL. CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUYI IRONSI STREET. PMB 198, MATIAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28TH DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION. SIGNED:IFEANYI UNAEZE ESQ 08033247782 SOLICITOR

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. IKENNA AWACHIE 2. RAMON FASHOLA

SIGNED: SOLICITORS

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED CLUB HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE: 1.TO FOSTER UNITY AMONGST MEMBERS. 2.TO PROVIDE FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE FOR ITS MEMBERS.

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO 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 foundation HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

Trustees 1.Kasim Chiedu -Chairman 2.Daniel Onyeisi Akibor-Vice chairman 3.Damilola Onayiga - Secretary 4.Ezioma Adanma Ugwunna-Financial Secretary 5.Joshua Igodo-Treasurer 6.Lanre Ibironke-Public Relations Officer 7.Elo Otiedo-Welfare Officer.

Aim & Objective 1.to effectively produce lasting change in the behaviours of young people by influencing their value systems 2. To groom individuals who are enlightened and empowered 3. to be self reliant, self confident, having self worth.

ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL. CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUYI IRONSI STREET. PMB 198, MATIAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28TH DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION. Signed Barr. Chukwuka Obidike

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED CHURCH HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1.Pastor Ikechukwu Okasili (Founder and Overseer) 2.Justina Ometie (Secretary) 3.Atseyin Omawumi Emily (Treasurer) 4.Emmanuel Bamidele Erosanyi (Assit. Treasurer) 5.Augustine Couple Isaba (Auditor THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE: 1.TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST. 2. TO REACH OUT TO LOST SOULS. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL. CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUYI IRONSI STREET. PMB 198, MATIAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28TH DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION. SIGNED: SECRETARY

PUBLIC NOTICE ATTA’AWUN CHARITABLE FOUNDATION INT’L.

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED foundation HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

Names of Trustees: 1.SALEH ABDU LUKAT 2.AMINU ABDUL LUKAT 3.SANI MOHAMMED SIDI Aims and Objects.

To assist the Less privileged 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, MATIAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28TH DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION. Signed secretary

PEOPLES DAILY, wednesday, may 14, 2014

PUBLIC NOTICE ITA FAAJI GENTS CLUB

Page 45

PUBLIC NOTICE SEAT OF POWER MIRACLES MINISTRY

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED club HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

THIS IS NOTIFY THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, ABUJA FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART ‘C’ OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT. NO 1 OF 1990.

Trustees: 1. SAUBANA SHONIBARE (President) 2. AZEEZ BADMUS (Vice President) 3. OLAONIPEKUN MAKINDE (Secretary) 4. AZEEZ ADEKUNLE (Treasury) 5. OGUNKEYE KEHINDE (Formal Vice President)

THE TRUSTEES ARE: (1) EMEH CHIDIEBERE ROOSEVELT (2) ADAMS ONIMISI (3) UCHE FAVOUR NKIRUKA (4) CHIDIEBERE FAITH ENYINNAYA (5) BASSEY LINDA (6) ATTAH IDRIS DICKSON (7) ADEREMI ADEOYE OLUWAFEMI.

Aim: To promote the health and wellbeing of our members.

ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL. CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUYI IRONSI STREET. PMB 198, MATIAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28TH DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION. Signed: PLACID EZEIGBO

PUBLIC NOTICE THE LIGHT OF THE NATION EVANGELICAL BIBLE MINISTRY

THIS IS NOTIFY THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, ABUJA FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART ‘C’ OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT. NO 1 OF 1990.

1 . OMOYOVWIRIN ROSELINE CHIDINMA (GENERAL OVERSEER) 2.OMOYOVWIRIN PETER OGHENEOVO (TREASURER) 3.AHANNON NERO IGHAMA (FINANCIAL SECRETARY) 4.OMOYOVWIRIN OGHENERUME PETER (P R O) 5.ESE HENRY DURU (SECRETARY).

Aims: 1.To preach word of God (2) To Evangelise (3) To organise healing and deliverance programmes 5. Christian books publication.

Any objection to the registration should be forwarded to Registrar - General, Corporate Affairs Commission, P.M.B 198, Plot 420, Tigris Crescent, Off Aguyi Ironsi Street Maitama Abuja, within {28} days of this publication.

Signed: Secretary

PUBLIC NOTICE JOY AND GLADNESS FOR THE POOR ELDERLY PERSONS OUTREACH

AIM AND OBJECTIVE:.

PURELY SPREADING THE GOSPEL OF LORD JESUS CHRIST. Any objection to the registration should be forwarded to Registrar - General, Corporate Affairs Commission, P.M.B 198, Plot 420, Tigris Crescent, Off Aguyi Ironsi Street Maitama Abuja, within {28} days of this publication.

PUBLIC NOTICE THE DIVINE ARMY MINISTRY INTERNATIONAL

THIS IS NOTIFY THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, ABUJA FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART ‘C’ OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT. NO 1 OF 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. AKIODE OLUSEGUN 2 AKIODE OLUFUNMILOLA OLUBUNMI 3 JOHN ADEBISI AIM AND OBJECTIVE: To preach the gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ.

Any objection to the registration should be forwarded to Registrar - General, Corporate Affairs Commission, P.M.B 198, Plot 420, Tigris Crescent, Off Aguyi Ironsi Street Maitama Abuja, within {28} days of this publication.

Signed: Secretary

Signed: Secretary

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

EMMANUEL APOSTOLIC AND FIRE MINISTRY

LIFETOUCH ASSEMBLY

THIS IS NOTIFY THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, ABUJA FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART ‘C’ OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT. NO 1 OF 1990.

THIS IS NOTIFY THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, ABUJA FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART ‘C’ OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT. NO 1 OF 1990.

TRUSTEES : 1. PASTOR TEMITOPE OMOLAYO ( GENERAL OVERSEER) 2. PASTOR BOLANLE OMOLAYO 3. MR. ABIDEMI OLALEKAN OBEMBE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1. TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF CHRIST

TRUSTEES: 1. REV. DAVID EHI IMABEH-KING - CHAIRMAN 2. MRS. JUDITH OLUWABUNMI IMABEH -KING- VICE CHAIRMAN 3. PASTOR AUSTIN AMIEN -TREASURER 4. DR. RAPHAEL AKAEME - SECRETARY AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1. TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST.

Any objection to the registration should be forwarded to Registrar - General, Corporate Affairs Commission, P.M.B 198, Plot 420, Tigris Crescent, Off Aguyi Ironsi Street Maitama Abuja, within {28} days of this publication.

Any objection to the registration should be forwarded to Registrar - General, Corporate Affairs Commission, P.M.B 198, Plot 420, Tigris Crescent, Off Aguyi Ironsi Street Maitama Abuja, within {28} days of this publication.

SIGNED: TRUSTEES

SIGNED: SECRETARY

DISCLAIMER

PUBLIC NOTICE

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

HINDU TEMPLE DEVELOPMENT FOUNDATION

THIS IS 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. NO 1 OF 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1.MRS STELLA EHIKIOYA 2.MRS LILIAN AISUAN

TRUSTEES: (1). ASHOK KUMAR SUNDARA SHETTY (2) RAJA KIRAN REDDY RAMIDI (3) SAGAY EMIKO PETER

THE AIM AND OBJECTIVE: 1. To Cater for The Poor and The Elderly in our Society.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: Promoting Hindu culture and religion.

ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL. CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUYI IRONSI STREET. PMB 198, MATIAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28TH DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION.

Any objection to the registration should be forwarded to Registrar - General, Corporate Affairs Commission, P.M.B 198, Plot 420, Tigris Crescent, Off Aguyi Ironsi Street Maitama Abuja, within {28} days of this publication.

SIGNED: SECRETARY

PUBLIC NOTICE WINNIE NNAKWE DIABETES & KIDNEY CARE FOUNDATION

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. WINFRED NNAKWE 2.VIVIAN ONYEUKWU 3. OBI IGBOKWE 4. GLADYS EKEH THE AIM AND OBJECTIVE: 1.TO RENDER AS A MEANS OF TOUCHING THE COMMUNITY FREE MEDICAL SERVICES AND ESTABLISH, BUILD AND OPERATE HOSPITALS CLINICS HOMES MEDICAL CLINICS AS HEALTH INFORMATION SERVICES ON DIABETES AND KIDNEY CARE. 2.AND TO ESTABLISH AND OPERATE MEDICAL DIAGNOSTICS LABORATORIES FOR THE PURPPOSE OF CARRYING OUT SPECIFIC RESEARCH IN ALL ASPECTS OF MEDICINE AND MEDICAL DIAGNOSIS TO PATIENTS ESPECIALLY ON DIABETES AND KIDNEY CARE AS WELL AS TO THE COMMUNITY AT LARGE. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL. CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUYI IRONSI STREET. PMB 198, MATIAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28TH DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION. SIGNED: SECRETARY

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT EZEKIEL BEST WHOM PHOTOGRAPH APPEAR ABOVE IS NOT KNOWN TO ME. IT HAS COME TO MY NOTICE THAT THE SAID EZEKIEL BEST IS USING MY PROPERTY NO.4 BARRACK ROAD JOS AS HIS OFFICE ADDRESS. ANY PERSON OR ORGANIZATION THAT DOES ANY BUSINESS WITH HIM USING THE ADDRESS ABOVE DOES SO AT ITS OWN PERIL. THE GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD TAKE NOTE PLEASE. SIGNED: SENETOR SOLOMON EWUGA

SIGNED: SECRETARY

PUBLIC NOTICE RENAISSANCE FOR PEACE ADVOCACY AND DEVELOPMENT INITIATIVE IN NIGERIA

THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT THE ABOVE NAMED INITIATIVE HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION OF NIGERIA CAC FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1.

Dokubo Asari Oyinade Rahmat 2.

Comrade Alada Greg Atabi 3.

Oruakin Frank THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE: 1.

To sensitize the people on the importance of peaceful co-existence for sustainable development ANY OBJECTION TO THIS PUBLICATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION OF NIGERIA, PLOT 420 TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYIIRONSISTREET, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. Singed: Secretary

PEOPLES DAILY, wednesday, may 14, 2014

Page 46

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

SUNNYVALE MUSLIM WOMEN FORUM

ASSOCIATION FOR YOUTH LEADERSHIP REBIRTH

NJIKO UMUNWANYI IGBO ANAMBRA ASSOCIATION

THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT THE ABOVE NAMED FORUM HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION OF NIGERIA CAC FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1.

Hauwa Kulu Sayyid Chairman 2.

Fatima Ibrahim Haruna Secretary 3.

Mulikat Mojirayo Shuaib 4.

Kafayat Shittu 5.

Hadiza Mahmud 6.

Kaltume Nasir 7. Zainab Musa Basah 8.

Risquat Ajia 9.

Fatimah Oyedele 10.

Hauwakulu Abdul THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE: 1.

To promote the ideals of Islam 2.

To advance the spiritual wellbeing and overall welfare of orphans and the less privileged in the society ANY OBJECTION TO THIS PUBLICATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION OF NIGERIA, PLOT 420 TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYIIRONSISTREET, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. Singed: Secretary

THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT THE ABOVE NAMED ASSOCIATION HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION OF NIGERIA CAC FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1.

Victor Nnadozie Okafor 2.

Ambrose Okechukwu Uyanwanne 3.

Faruna Daimian Omaye 4.

Albert Kim Adamu 5.

Rev. Fr. Bede Okolie 6.

Nelson Adejoh Omaye 7.

Odey Peter Odey 8.

Emeka Obilum Onuoha 9.

Mrs. Tonia Ohieku THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE: 1. To revive cultural values and discipline among the Nigerian youths 2. To prepare the Nigeria youths for leadership roles 3. To carry out campaign that would foster unity among the Nigerian Youths 4. To organize programmes that will inculcate the spirit of patriotism and tolerance among Nigeria youths ANY OBJECTION TO THIS PUBLICATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION OF NIGERIA, PLOT 420 TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYIIRONSISTREET, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. Singed: N.A. Omaye; 07032800860

THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT THE ABOVE NAMED ASSOCIATION HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION OF NIGERIA CAC FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT 1990.

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1.

Chief Emmanuel Nwoye Ezeudu 2.

Lady Edna Okafor 3.

Chief Eddy Nwogu 4.

Barr. Sylvester Ezeani 5.

Comrade Chuka Sunnyside 6.

Evelyn Onuora 7.

Gloria Muojeke 8.

Prince Emeka Kalu THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE: 1.

To unite Igbo women ANY OBJECTION TO THIS PUBLICATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION OF NIGERIA, PLOT 420 TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYIIRONSISTREET, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. Singed: Secretary

NAWFIJA BORN AGAIN CHRISTIAN ASSOCIATION

ARENA OF FREEDOM MINISTRY WORLDWIDE

BRICK-LAYERS ASSOCIATION OF IJESHA LAND

THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT THE ABOVE NAMED ASSOCIATION HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION OF NIGERIA CAC FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT 1990.

THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT THE ABOVE NAMED MINISTRY HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION OF NIGERIA CAC FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT 1990.

THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT THE ABOVE NAMED ASSOCIATION HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION OF NIGERIA CAC FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1.

Pastor Anselem Timothy Okolo 2.

Bro. Emmanuel Ude 3.

Bro. Basil Onyejekwe 4.

Bro. Pius Okoli 5.

Bro. Justin Ezeanya 6.

Sis. Virginia Mbazulike 7.

Sis. Monica Okeke

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1.

Madubuko Toochukwu Blessing Chairman 2.

Ani Sandra Chidinma Member 3.

Madubuko Ozioma Mark Secretary 4.

Madubuko Patrick Peter Oyeoka Member 5.

Madubuko Felicia Nwakaego Member 6.

Ekeh Roseline Dozie Member

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1.

Ayodele Olagunju President 2.

Oluwatimilehin Secretary 3.

Adeyemi Peter JohnBull 4.

Olaiya Oladele

THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE: 1.

To preach the word of God ANY OBJECTION TO THIS PUBLICATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION OF NIGERIA, PLOT 420 TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYIIRONSISTREET, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION.

THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE: 1.

To preach the word of God ANY OBJECTION TO THIS PUBLICATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION OF NIGERIA, PLOT 420 TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYIIRONSISTREET, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION.

THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE: 1. To cater for the welfare of members 2. To promote peace, unity and harmony among the members in Ijesha land ANY OBJECTION TO THIS PUBLICATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION OF NIGERIA, PLOT 420 TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYIIRONSISTREET, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION.

Singed: Chairman

Singed: Secretary

Singed: Barr. Ibiteye Isaacs Esq. Excelsior Legal Alliance, Suite 0015, MJS Plaza, Plot 518, Olu Awotesu Street, Behind Ecobank Plc, Jabi-Abuja; 08065379428

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

MARIA OKWULEHIE FOUNDATION

FOUNDATION FOR SKILLED LEARNING AND DEVELOPMENT

THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT THE ABOVE NAMED FOUNDATION HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION OF NIGERIA CAC FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT 1990.

RACHEAL OWAN-ENOH FOUNDATION

ANY OBJECTION TO THIS PUBLICATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION OF NIGERIA, PLOT 420 TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYIIRONSISTREET, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION.

THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE: 1.

Aside certificate acquired in basic educational training, the foundation is aimed at development of the society via skill acquisition and learning and general empowerment ANY OBJECTION TO THIS PUBLICATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION OF NIGERIA, PLOT 420 TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYIIRONSISTREET, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION.

Singed: Secretary

Singed: Akuabia Okoye Esq

THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT THE ABOVE NAMED FOUNDATION HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION OF NIGERIA CAC FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1.

Racheal Owan Enoh 2.

Nyce Ahah-Achu Ayuk 3.

Barr. Wisdom Okpa 4.

Mr. Roy Ekpak 5.

Alh. Suleiman Abdulrauf Suleiman 6.

Paul Santos Ofana 7.

Miss Edukere Mmandu Udo 8.

Sylvester Osita Obidike Esq. 9.

Ashibel Donatus 10.

Henry Nkong THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE: 1. To mobilize millions of Nigeria youths to embrace peace and give democracy a chance to trive in Nigeria 2. To create a reliable link between our leaders and the youths ANY OBJECTION TO THIS PUBLICATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION OF NIGERIA, PLOT 420 TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYIIRONSISTREET, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. Singed: Secretary

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

CHANGE OF NAME I, FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MISS ESOHE LAWANI, NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MRS ESOHE SOLOMON-AIMUSUN. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC TAKE NOTE.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1.

Gen. Yakubu Gowon Chairman 2.

Paul Okwulehie 3.

Ikenna Okwulehie 4.

Chinemerem Batran 5.

Sammy Okwulehie THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE: 1.

To cater for the welfare of members

THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT THE ABOVE NAMED FOUNDATION HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION OF NIGERIA CAC FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1.

Augustina Ogah-Onibasa 2.

Anthony Onibasa 3.

Irene Oliver

President Secretary Treasurer

NNORUO GEORGENIA OFOEGBU FOUNDATION

THE FAVORED UNITED CLUB OF NIGERIA

THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT THE ABOVE NAMED FOUNDATION HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION OF NIGERIA CAC FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT 1990.

THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT THE ABOVE NAMED CLUB HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION OF NIGERIA CAC FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1.

Ofoegu Albert Odi Chairman 2.

Ofoegbu Daberechi Secretary 3.

Ofoegbu Ngozi Akunwa Member 4.

Ofoegbu Innocent Member 5.

Ofoegbu Chibuzor Member THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE: 1. To establish and promote educational and health institution at all levels 2. To cater for the welfare of the less privileged in the society

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1.

Okwudili Agada 2.

Chukwuneke Ezeani 3.

Onyeka Okoye THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE: 1.

To extend care and love to the less privileged members of the society especially the sick, prisoners and orphanages 2. To maintain peace and progress among members

ANY OBJECTION TO THIS PUBLICATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION OF NIGERIA, PLOT 420 TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYIIRONSISTREET, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION.

ANY OBJECTION TO THIS PUBLICATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION OF NIGERIA, PLOT 420 TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYIIRONSISTREET, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION.

Singed: Secretary

Singed: Kenneth Ikeh

CHANGE OF NAME I FORMERLY KNOWN AS Morufat Olawummi Adebayo NOW WISHES TO BE KNOWN AS Morufat Olawummi. Gboyega-Amao. ALL FORMER DOCUMENT REMAIN VALID, GENERAL PUBLIC TAKE NOTE.

CHANGE OF NAME I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADRESSED AS MISS. IJEOMA EFFANGA INYANG, NOW WISHES TO BE KNOWN AND ADRESSED AS MRS. IJEOMA SONIA OZURUMBA. ALL FORMER DOCUMENT REMAIN VALID, GENERAL PUBLIC TAKE NOTE.

PAGE 47

Peoples Daily, wednesDAY, may 14, 2014

Leisure

I

Some Interesting Facts

n 1386 a pig in France was executed by public hanging for the murder of a child.

Earth is the only planet not named after a god.

The world’s oldest piece of chewing gum is over 9,000 years old!

Scientists have tracked butterflies travelling over 3,000 miles.

The silkworm consumes 86,000 times its own weight in 56 days.

If removed from the stress of the modern world, the average human would sleep about 10 hours a day.

To produce a single pound of honey, a single bee would have to visit 2 million flowers.

A colony of 500 bats can eat approximately 250,000 insects in an hour.

One in Five adults believe that aliens are hiding in our planet disguised as humans.

Travelling masseuses in ancient Japan were required by law to be blind.

The bloodhound is the only animal whose evidence is admissible in court.

James Fixx, the man who popularized jogging in America died of a heart attack while running.

The average American spends about a year and a half of his or her life watching commercials on television. What are

you doing?! Get out and spend that year and a half doing something productive!

Ancient Greeks practiced a form (ineffective) of birth control that consisted of having a woman hold her breath, making her squat, and sneezing.

The FDA permits up to 5 whole insects per 100 grams of apple butter.

There are no naturally o ccu r r i n g b l u e f o o d s , ev en blueberries are purple!

The skeleton of Jeremy Bentham is present in all the important meetings of the University of London.

The elephant is the only mammal that can’t jump!

Just like fingerprints, everyone’s tongue is different.

The longest recorded flight of a chicken is 13 seconds.

400 Quarter Pounders can be made from a single cow.

Only 38% of Americans eat breakfast every day.

111,111,111 x 111,111,111 = 12,345,678,987,654,321 11% of the World is left handed.

A “Jiffy” is the scientific name for 1/100th of a second.

A Boeing 747’s wingspan is longer than the Wright brothers’ first flight.

A broken clock is right two times a day.

A duck’s quack doesn’t echo anywhere, no one knows why.

1. It’s possible for your body to survive without a surprisingly large fraction of its internal organs. Even if you lose your stomach, your spleen, 75% of your liver, 80% of your intestines, one kidney, one lung, and virtually every organ from your pelvic and groin area, you wouldn’t be very healthy, but you would live.

2. During your lifetime, you will produce enough saliva to fill two swimming pools. Actually, Saliva is more important than you realize. If your saliva cannot dissolve something, you cannot taste it.

3. The largest cell in the human body is the female egg and the smallest is the male sperm. The egg is actually the only cell in the body that is visible by the n*k*d eye.

Say what?

SUDOKU

SUDOKU EASY 87

PHOTO OF THE DAY

Pulitzer: Byer won the Pulitzer Prize in 2007 for a series of photos showing a young boy’s battle with cancer and his mother’s anguish.

Source: Dailymail.co.uk

www.peoplesdailyng.com

WEDNESDAY, may 14, 2014

SPORTS latest

Terry signs a year extension with Chelsea

J

ohn Terry has signed a oneyear contract extension at Chelsea.

The 33-year-old’s future at the club was in doubt as his previous deal was set to expire this summer but the centre-back will now remain at Stamford Bridge until the end of next season.

“I’m delighted to have signed an extension to my contract with Chelsea taking me into my 20th year with the club,” Terry told the club’s official website.

“I’d like to thank the fans and club for their continued support, and the manager who was instrumental for me the last season.”

Chief executive Ron Gourlay added: “We are very pleased John, who is an undoubted Chelsea legend, will continue to lead the team next season, as he has done for so many years with unrivalled achievement.

“Both Chelsea FC and John have been clear throughout that we wanted his outstanding career at the club to continue, and it is important the matter has been concluded so soon after the end of the season, allowing us to look forward to and plan for 2014/15.”

Terry made 47 appearances in all competitions under Jose Mourinho last term but could not stop Chelsea ending the campaign without a trophy, with the club finishing third in the Premier League and being eliminated by Atletico Madrid in the Champions League semi-finals.

. . . putting the people first

We are asking the Service chiefs to ensure that these girls are released. If these girls are not released in seven days, we will be left with no option than to call on the Service chiefs to tender their resignation for incompetence.

– Ohaneze Youth Council on abducted Chibok schoolgirls

For Nigeria and India, it’s un-accidental trouble

T

he French philosopher Voltaire made the distinction between wisdom and knowledge from a personal experience he had. As a thinker and a critic, he was forced to flee his native country, France, for England. In the course of his stay, there occurred one of the regular storms in relations between England and France. He had the misfortune of running into an English mob, which turned against him, shouting “Kill the Frenchman, kill the Frenchman!”

Voltaire answered the crowd by appealing to their pride. “Men of England!” he shouted, “Have I not been punished enough for not being an Englishman?”From death chants, the mob sang his praises, themselves feeling good in self-pride.

Those 167 girls, of the 200+ stolen who spoke against the background of forced conversions to Islam, showed wisdom. They need first of all to be alive. But the comfort they should have is that Allah does not Himself accept forced conversions. As the curtains appear destined to come down on the long drawn abduction saga, Nigerians who have had their attention deflected from other issues happening around the globe would realize by the time this is all over, that they definitely have a lot of catching up to do.

For a good reason, our news media have been overly busy reporting mostly news related to Boko Haram and the theft of those girls. Nobody can fault this, especially in view of the successful campaign on social networks to keep this issue on the front burner.

This country suffers from chronic amnesia. We forget big issues easily and just move on mechanistically.

Not this one, however, where you have leading statesmen including Pope Francis, Prime Minister Cameron, President and Mrs. Obama, the Mayor of New York

“

John Terry

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India BJP’s Narendra Modi and here at home, Atiku Abubakar and Asiwaju Bola Tinubu holding placards with the inscribed hashtag “BringBackOurGirls” trending all over the world.

There will be a lot of “noise” when you have civil rights groups supporting angry mothers protesting in every city in the country and the world’s major capitals asking for action on the recovery at the girls, vis-à-vis the manifestation of lethargy, incompetence and denial on the part of rulers who are unable to secure the safety of their own citizens.

An astute politician would have thought every word he/she is about to utter before millions of television audiences but when you hear this country’s leaders asking questions if any girls had

gone missing at all, it makes you wonder where such men/women were born and bred. Thankfully, in yet another tragicomedy, the leader of the sect that stole the girls, Abubakar Shekau put the 167 of them in a video, all of them wearing the Islamic regalia, Hijab signifying their conversion to Islam. While this heart-wrenching picture had the effect of reassuring anxious parents their girls were still alive, it was at the same time irrefutable evidence that indeed, there were girls that had gone missing.

Four weeks of denial have also left a government in a denial exhausted not only in body but in rhetoric, forcing it to make the final admission that foreign assistance was needed.

Twenty countries – and still counting – have jumped in with the United States of America, France, United Kingdom, China and Israel promising to throw in just anything to help secure the girls and free this country of the intractable insurgency.

For this and other reasons, if you meet anybody within or outside Nigeria, the discussion on the lips of everyone is Boko Haram and the missing girls. If there are a few exceptions, it must be out of concern for the world’s largest democracy, India, which just finished voting in an election that may install a government sworn to the disintegration of law and order. What the imminent victory of BJP, Narendra Modi’s

For a good reason, our news media have been overly busy reporting mostly news related to Boko Haram and the theft of those girls. Nobody can fault this, especially in view of the successful campaign on social networks to keep this issue on the front burner. This country suffers from chronic amnesia.

extremist, Hindu nationalist party means is that India will have a government that takes minorities, notably Christians and Muslims head on in a straight fight.

If elected into office, Mr. Modi has promised a unified civil code that will force Hindu practices with regard matters such as marriages and inheritance on minorities such as the Muslims and the Christians who had before now, maintained their distinct practices. He has pledged to outlaw the slaughter of cows and has said he would consider the building of a Hindu temple on a controversial site, Ayodha, revered by Muslims.

Modi also plans to strip the Muslim-majority State of Kashmir of its semi-autonomous status.

The man is barely able to conceal his wish to decimate the fabric of that country’s diversity. On account of his, The Economist, an internationally respected publication came out very hard on him, saying that it cannot bring itself to back Mr. Modi for India’s prime ministership. It said he is too divisive a personality for a pluralistic society like India.

The Guardian of London called him a fascist. In addition, the paper published a letter by leading international citizens, including Salman Rushdie saying that if he is elected, it will not bode well for India’s future.

Another leading U.K. newspaper, The Independent says that the thought of Mr. Modi becoming India’s next Prime Minister is enough to make one “shiver”.

If Modi’s BJP clinches victory in the results expected to be announced on Friday and forms the government of India in line with widespread expectation, this would not be first time that democracy as a system of electing governments throws up the wrong type of outcomes.

The government in the semiindependent territory, Gaza under the control of Israel, which has been dubbed “terrorist” by much of the world itself came into office through an election. The Nigerian President, Dr. Jonathan Goodluck who has shown a lack of interest in being President for all Nigerians as illustrated in the laizes-fair handling of the insurgency and the girls’ kidnap equally came to office through an election. What is terrifying is that India’s Supremeleader-to-be is a man who will find comfort in a club, which membership includes the leaders of Al-Qaeda in the Middle-East, Asia and Africa.

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