Wednesday, June 24th, 2015 Edition

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Wednesday, June 24, 2015/ Ramadan 7, 1436 AH

PDP govs want election tribunals back to states

. . . putting the people first

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Trade: FG keys into ECOWAS common tariff

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peoplesdailyng

Vol. 16 No. 47 N150

Appointment of leaders tears Senate, Reps apart

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Buhari: We’ll recover all stolen monies l To bail out states with excess crude fund l Stop giving excuses, PDP tells President

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L-R: President Muhammadu Buhari, Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar III, Shehu of Borno, Alhaji Umar El-Kanemi Gwarbei, and other emirs, during a visit by the Northern Traditional Rulers Council to the president, yesterday at the State House, in Abuja.

Photo: Joe Oroye

Protesters demand 60% lawmakers’ pay cut l As Saraki proposes budget slash

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436 Days after 3 Kwara college students Will the abducted Chibok schoolgirls ever be rescued?

drown in well

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PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESday, JUNE 24, 2015

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

19-22 23

S/Report 24-25 Property 27 Motoring 28 Arts 30

Protesters storm NASS demand 60% lawmakers’ pay cut

By Umar Muhammad Puma, Ali Abare Abubakar & Ikechukwu Okaforadi

H

undreds of protesters on the platform of Civil Society Organisation, Conscience Nigeria yesterday barricaded the entrance of the National Assembly demanding that salaries and allowances of National Assembly members and all other political appointees in the country be cut by 60 per cent.

Also the protesters demanded that legislative business should be on a part time basis in view of the huge expenses incurred in the maintenance of the National Assembly.

Executive Director of the Group, Tosin Adeyanju told journalists in Abuja that the salaries and allowances of law makers in the National Assembly should be made public.

“Why will 469 members share N120 billion in a year? If we don’t act, Nigeria will collapse like Greece. The time has come for National Assembly members to declare their pay. This secrecy must stop, “

According to them, a comparative analysis conducted

by Conscience Nigeria on salaries and allowances of law makers in five developed countries, Nigerian law makers earned the highest.

The breakdown shows: United States of America ($174,000); United Kingdom ($105,000); France ($85,000); Germany ($119,500); Canada ($154,000) and Nigeria ($181,974).

“In terms of law makers salary as ratio GDP per capita, the gap is even wider while salaries of Nigerian lawmakers is 116 times the country’s GDP per person.

That of the British member of parliament is just 2.7 times.

“The average salary Nigerian workers based on the national minimum wage of N18, 000 x 12 months = N216, 000 per year.

Remember yearly salaries of Nigerian Senator is $2,183,685 therefore, it will take an average Nigerian worker 1,638 years to earn the yearly salary of a Senator.

“Conscience Nigeria submitted in a document.

However, Senate President, Bukola Saraki, yesterday gave the hint that the budget of the

National Assembly would be cut downwards to be in tune with the harsh economic realities in the country.

Recall that in recent times, Nigeria has been experiencing challenges in the areas of revenue generation due to fall in the oil price in the international market, which has adversely affected the amount of revenue being generated in the country.

In his welcome speech yesterday to his colleagues, after their two weeks recess, the Senate President also said the budget of the National Assembly would be reviewed to make it more transparent and open to prevent rumours.

“In the coming days after the leadership of the National Assembly is fully established, we shall be setting up an ad hoc committee to re-appraise the structure of the National Assembly budget, make it more open, and ensure that the entire budget is in line with economic realities”, Ekweremadu said.

Saraki also urged his colleagues to be ready for the economic realities in the country, adding

that except the lawmakers make sacrifices, they will not be able to effectively oversight the executive.

According to him, “It is clear that it is at times like these that nations either buckle up, face the realities of their predicaments, and forge ahead to ensure a brighter future for the next generation, or turn a blind eye to the extravagant facts that are staring us in the face.

“As it stands, given the trust that Nigerians have placed on us, legislators of the 8th National Assembly, to leave a historic impact on the affairs of our nation, we must choose to show that we are made for this moments, to leave a historic impact.

“Without doing so, we will not have the moral authority to question Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) that carry on with little regards for the public good”, he said.

While noting that Nigerians voted for change, he pointed out that the task before the National Assembly is enormous, but very clear that Nigerians demand that the lawmakers deliver to them tangible change and improve the quality of governance.

adding that what he had heard was going on in many agencies and corporations, particularly the NNPC, was clearly illegal.

On the request for the refund of monies spent on federal projects by state governments, the President assured the governors that the Federal Government will pay, but insisted that due process must be followed.

The President promised special assistance for the three North Eastern states badly affected by the Boko Haram insurgency.

He also said that a comprehensive statement on the economic and financial situation inherited by his administration will be made to the nation within the next four weeks.

“We will try and put the system back into the right position. What happened in the 2nd Republic has apparently happened again, and even worse. But we will restore sanity to the system,” Buhari assured.

It would be recalled that the 2nd Republic led by President Shehu Shagari was toppled in 1983 by the military junta led by Buhari on the allegation that the administration was riddled with corruption.

On an immediate lifeline for states that owe salaries running into many months, the President said that a committee headed by the Vice President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo, will look at the Excess Crude Account and see what could be shared immediately.

The governors, through their leader, presented a wish list including obedience of extant

Supreme Court ruling that all monies go into the Consolidated Federation Account; an order from the President that all revenue generating agencies must pay into the Consolidated Federation Account and review of the Revenue Allocation Formula to the President.

Other demands by the governors were the refund of the monies expended by states on federal projects; a special consideration for the three states of the North East under Boko Haram infestation and details of the amounts that accrued into the Excess Crude Account from 2011, and how the money miraculously shrank without official sharing.

Briefing newsmen after the parley with the President, Yari said of the shrank Excess Crude Account “For instance before our forum was divided, we left $10.3 billion in the excess crude account and we expected the account to grow but as reported in our last meeting, the account is now $2.6 billion and the sharing has been stopped since May 2013; no kobo has been given to any state or local government.

So therefore under which platform will you save the money? To save the money is good. No matter how beautiful it is if it does not have the backing of the constitution it is null and void.” eanwhile, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has described as evasive, diversionary and preemptive, the present government’s pile up of excuses for possible failure in delivering on its campaign promises to Nigerians.

The PDP said it is unfortunate that President Muhammadu Buhari and the APC, who were privy to the nation’s dwindling economy occasioned by global economic downturn and fall in international oil price, even before the start of the campaigns, chose to deceive Nigerians with bogus promises, only to now resort to excuses after using the promises to secure power at the center.

PDP National Publicity Secretary, Chief Olisa Metuh in a statement on Tuesday said the party notes with dismay, President Buhari’s statement on Monday that Nigerians should not expect much from his first 100 days in office on claims that he met “virtually an empty treasury and huge debts”, noting that such only underlines the fact that the present administration is really not equipped to face the challenges of governance.

“While we restate our resolve to engage only in credible and issue based opposition, we want the President and the APC to note that their plea for patience from Nigerians does not arise, because ab-initio, there has not been any indication that they are actually serious and determined to deliver on their campaign promises upon which they rode to power.”

“How can one reconcile President Buhari’s statement with the recent ridiculous and misleading claim by APC’s National Publicity Secretary, Alhaji Lai Mohammed that this administration has achieved in three weeks what the immediate past administration did not achieve in five years?”, PDP asked.

Buhari: We’ll recover all stolen monies

By Lawrence Olaoye & Ahmed Abubakar

Again, Boko Haram kills 17 in Borno, as blask kills scores in Yobe – Page 5

Metro

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Int’l 39 S/World

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Digest 40 Sports 41 Columnist 48

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resident Muhammadu Buhari has vowed to recover all stolen funds by government officials who abused their offices and ensure that systemic leakages in the nation’s resources are blocked.

Buhari, at a meeting with the nation’s 36 state governors led by the Chairman of the Nigerian Governors’ Forum (NGF) and Zamfara state governor, Alhaji Abdulazeez Yari, assured that the days of impunity, lack of accountability, and fiscal recklessness in the management of national resources are over in the country.

According to a statement signed by the Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina, Buhari told the governors “There are financial and administrative instructions in every government parastatal and agency. But all these were thrown to the dogs in the past. Honestly, our problems are great, but we will do our best to surmount them.

The next three months may be hard, but billions of dollars can be recovered, and we will do our best.”

Expressing surprise that the governors had tolerated the atrocities allegedly committed with the Excess Crude Account since 2011, President Buhari promised to tackle the issue decisively.

He declared that the payment of national revenue into any account other than the Federation Account was an abuse of the constitution,

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PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESday, JUNE 24, 2015

News Appointment of principal officers tears Senate, Reps apart

By Ali Abare Abubakar, Ikechukwu Okaforadi & Umar Muhammad Puma,

T

he peace meeting among the senators of the All Progressives Congress (APC), with the aim of choosing between Ahmed Lawan and Ali Ndume, who will emerge as the Senate Leader, yesterday ended in stalemate, as the senators loyal to both camps (Unity Forum and Like Mind) exchanged blows among themselves, forcing the peace meeting to end abruptly in fiasco with senators physically assaulting one another.

The Senate had shortly after the resumption of the plenary yesterday, entered to a closeddoor meeting which lasted for 45 minutes, trying to resolve the political impasse of allocating principal offices to and seats to members, which had bedeviled the legislative activities in the upper chamber since Bukola Saraki emerged the Senate President.

However, as the APC lawmakers failed to agree on who becomes the Senate Leader; the Senate President invited the APC senators to another meeting immediately after plenary session yesterday.

The APC senators had based on announcement made by Saraki during plenary assembled at room 301 of the Senate new wing for a meeting with him, which however resulted into agitated commotion between the pro and anti Saraki senators when the issue of remaining leadership positions in the senate meant for the party was raised.

Disagreement between the two camps which led to verbal outbursts and exchange of blows between senators across the divides was sparked off when the senators belonging to the Like Minds and Unity Forum groups failed to reach middle ground on the procedure for the emergence of a candidate for the various leadership positions.

The Saraki-led Like Minds

Senators at the meeting insisted that the candidates for the various positions be zoned to the regions, where the Senate caucus of the respective zones to which positions are zoned, will have to choose from among themselves the candidate for the post.

On the contrary, the Ahmad Lawan group under the aegis of Unity Forum posited that insisted, all vacant positions are zoned to the region, while the national leadership of the party will be allowed to choose who becomes the candidate.

However, the Like Minds senators came up with a zoning formula that gave the position of Majority Leader to the North East; Deputy Majority Leader, North West; Chief Whip, South West; and Deputy Whip, South South, respectively.

According to one of the lawmakers who attended the APC Senators meeting yesterday, Suleiman Hunkuyi (APC, Kaduna North), the problem was caused by attempts by the Saraki-led group to impose its candidates on the party.

Midway into the meeting which was held in closed door, an angry Hunkuyi stormed out of the venue and threw the doors open, asking newsmen around into the hall, to witness the drama.

With the atmosphere already charged, trouble started when Senator Tayo Alsoadura (APC Ondo Central), a member of the Like Minds senators differed over the choice of Senator Sola Adeyeye (APC Osun Central) as Chief Whip.

The lawmaker insisted that Senator Robert Borroffice (APC, Ondo North) was better candidate to Adeyeye given his experience as a ranking senator.

But one of the Unity forum senators, Kabiru Marafa (APC, Zamfara Central), a younger lawmaker aged 54 who took offence with Senator Alsoadura observation, launched an unexpected attack on the latter who staggered backwards and almost fell to the ground.

Senators at this point, rushed to the rescue of the 65 year old Alasoadura, by forming a thick wall to protect him from hitting the ground dangerously.

Earlier, before the meeting went violent, the convener of the peace meeting, Bukola Saraki, pleaded with the APC senators to forget the past by rallying round his leadership of the Senate and by extension the 8th National Assembly.

Also, at the 8th House of Representatives the SouthSouth Caucus of the party is said to have rejected the position of Deputy Chief Whip of the House purportedly allocated to it by the leadership of the House.

The Caucus in a statement signed by its leader, Rep Pally Iriase yesterday lamented what it called a deliberate effort to marginalise the zone in the sharing fomular.

The statement said that the South-South is being denied at least a substantive office while concentrating the substantive Principal Offices in the Zones already favoured in the House of Representatives”.

“We reject a proposal that purports to zone House Leader to South West in addition to Deputy Speaker and Chief Whip to North East in addition to the position of the Speaker already held.”

“We reject the proposal and hereby call the Speaker to be mindful of the principle of Federal Character which is contained in the Constitution which he swore to uphold and defend”, it stressed.

It could be recalled that Hon. Pally Iriase, one of the returning members of the APC from Edo also vied for the Speakership seat but was asked to step down for Femi Gbajabiamila at the instance of the party.

The only principal officers positions held by the SouthSouth in the 7th Assembly was that of Deputy Majority Leader held by Leo Ogor from Delta and Minority Whip by Samson Osagie from Edo.

Rights Commission, UN sign MoU on IDPs protection

By Albert Akota

T

he Executive Secretary of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) Prof.

Bem Angwe and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees yesterday signed an MoU on IDP’s rights protection and handover of ten motorcycles to state supervisors Prof. Angwe disclosed during the signing ceremony in Abuja

that the Commission have over three hundred Internal Displaced Persons (IDP) monitoring officers in north-central and north-east zones including FCT to ensure adequate protection.

Angwe said it commission will work assiduously to protect the right of the vulnerable Nigerians both returnees and IDP. He noted that the MoU with United Nations High

Commissioner for Refugees was to formally define the role of its office in Nigeria as well as strengthening the co-existing relationship between the bodies.

Speaking earlier, the representative of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees in Nigeria Ms. Angele Dikongue Atangana said that the MoU was to formalise the co-existing relationship between Nigeria and UN.

Ramadan Timing Day 7 Towns

Magrib Alfijr Abakaliki

6.47 5.59 Abeokuta

7.08 5.16 Abuja

6.55 4.56 Akure

6.54 5.08 Auchi

6.54 5.04 Ankpa

6.52 4.57 Argungu

7.11 4.57 Azare

6.48 4.37 Bama

6.33 4.25 Bauchi

6.46 4.46 Benin

6.56 5.09 Bichi

6.56 4.45 Bida

6.59 5.01 Birnin Gwari

6.58 4.56 B/Kebbi Gwandu

7.13 5.00 Calabar

6.44 5.00 Damaturu

6.41 40.35 Daura/Kazaure

6.57 4.42 Dutse

6.51 4.43 Enugu

6.49 6.00 Funtua/Malumfashi 6.59 4.51 Gombe

6.40 4.38 Gumi

7.08 4.57 Gusau

7.01 4.50 Gwadabawa

7.10 4.55 Gwoza

6.33 4.27 Hadejia

6.50 4.37 Ibadan

7.05 5.12 Ife

7.03 5.10 Ilesha Baruba

7.09 5.11 Ilorin

7.05 5.08 Jalingo

6.37 4.39 Jere/Suleija

6.54 4.52 Jos

6.49 4.47 Kabba

6.58 5.03 Kafanchan

6.51 4.50 Kafin Maiyaki

6.56 4.46 Kaduna

6.56 4.52 Kano

6.55 4.44 Katsina

7.01 4.46 Kontagora

7.03 4.43 Lafia

6.48 4.51 Lagos

7.05 5.16 Lokoja 6.55 5.00 Maiduguri

6.36 4.25 Makurdi

6.48 4.53 Minna

6.58 4.58 Missau

6.44 4.38 Monguno

6.36 4.21 Ningi

6.49 4.44 Ogbomosho

7.05 5.10 Okene

6.56 5.03 Onitsha

6.51 5.04 Oyo

7.06 5.11 Port Harcourt

6.49 5.05 Potiskum

6.44 4.33 Sagamu

7.05 5.14 Sokoto

7.09 4.55 Takum

6.40 4.49 Warri

6.56 5.09 Wurno

7.08 5.53 Yola

6.34 4.35 Zaria

6.57 4.50 Cotonnou-Benin

7.07 5.21 Ndjamena-Chad

6.28 4.28 Niamey-Niger

7.23 4.56 Zinder – Niger

6.55 4.37 Garoua – Cameroun 6.27 4.30 Younde-Cameroun 6.27 4.48 (Source: Society for the Propagation of Islam Kaduna)

Recommended DU’A for Day 06 Pray an 8 Rak-a’t Salaat. In every Rak-a’t after the recitation of Al-Faatih’ah, recite Suatul Qadr 20 times. After Salam, say the following Du’a: Allaahumma Qawwinee Feehi A’laa Iqaaamati Amrika Wa Ad’iqnee Feehi H’alaawata D’ikrika Wa Awzia’-Nee Feehi Li-Adaaa-I Shukrika Bikaramika Wah’-Faz’nee Feehi Bi-H’ifz’ika Wa Sitrika Yaa Abs’aran Naaz’ireen Meaning: O Allah, on this day, strengthen me in carrying out Your commands, let me taste the sweetness of Your remembrance, grant me, through Your graciousness, that I give thanks to You. Protect me, with Your protection and cover, O the most discerning of those who see.

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PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESday, JUNE 24, 2015

Page 4 Report

African economic conference: Can continent’s leaders tackle escalating poverty?

By Ese Awhotu

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he African Economic Conference (AEC) 2015, jointly organized by the African Development Bank (AfDB), the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), will take place from November 2-4 in Kinshasa, the capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The topic of the conference is: “Addressing Poverty and Inequality in the Post-2015 Development Agenda.” Has been described as particularly timely in light of the global efforts to define the way forward in addressing world poverty and inequality.

Africa’s recent economic growth and development progress are widely acknowledged. But also highlighted is the fact that millions of Africans in cities and rural areas have not been able to enjoy the benefits of economic growth. For many, making a living and access to social services have become quite difficult, while the problem of youth unemployment is an acute policy challenge everywhere in Africa. African economies have been able to weather the storm of global economic turbulence, thanks to much improved policy environments, the natural resource boom, and associated inflows of foreign investment.

However, sustainability will require well-formulated policies for Africa’s economic transformation and inclusion for all. This will require a broad effort by all countries, through regional policy harmonization, economic integration and trade.

Efforts at the margin will fail.

These issues, and many others, will be taken up in the forthcoming AEC. Kinshasa, as a venue, is particularly appealing for this conference. DRC has returned to high levels of growth, fired by its rich natural resource base. There is a huge latent demand for modern infrastructure and services to ease transport difficulties, reduce the cost of doing business, and ensure that the benefits of growth reach the population. These challenges are similar across Africa.

As usual, the Conference organizers expect to welcome a range of policymakers, academics, private sector participants as well as members of civil society.

Recent data reveals that Africa was the continent with the second largest number of hungry people, as Asia and the Pacific had 578 million, principally due to the much larger population of Asia when compared to subSaharan Africa. Sub-Saharan Africa actually had the largest proportion of its population undernourished, an estimated 30 percent in 2010, compared to

Congo poverty 16 percent in Asia and the Pacific (FAO 2010). Thus almost one in three people who live in subSaharan Africa were hungry, far higher than any other region of the world, with the exception of South Asia.

In 2008, 47 percent of the population of sub-Saharan Africa lived on $1.25 a day or less, according to the United Nations.

In general, the principal causes of poverty are harmful economic systems, conflict, environmental factors such as drought and climate change, and population growth (WHES 2012).

Poverty itself is a major cause of hunger. All are very important as causes of poverty and hunger in sub-Saharan Africa.

Poverty is the principal cause of hunger in Africa and elsewhere. Simply put, people do not have sufficient income to purchase enough food. Conflict and drought, for example, are certainly important causes of hunger, but the most typical situation is that people just do not have enough income to purchase the food that they need, they could be starving in some slum somewhere, for example.

As noted above, in 2008, 47 percent of the population of subSaharan Africa lived on $1.25 a day or less, a principal factor in causing widespread hunger.

Hunger Notes believes that the principal underlying cause of poverty and thus hunger

in Africa and elsewhere is the ordinary operation of the world’s economic and political systems. Essentially control over resources and income is based on military, political and economic power that typically ends up in the hands of a minority, who live well, while those at the bottom barely survive. We have described the operation of this system in more detail in our special section on harmful economic systems. The role that harmful economic systems play cannot be demonstrated briefly and should not be taken as confirmed truth by students, who should nevertheless consider it seriously.

Controlling the government and other sources of power and income is a fundamental way of obtaining income. Freedom in the World is an annual index that measures the degree that people have political rights and civil liberties. See its (mainly low) freedom rankings for subSaharan African countries.

One way that those in positions of power obtain income is through corruption.

The Transparency International reports have continually shown that many sub-Saharan African nations are viewed as corrupt.

Conflict is a principal source of human misery, including poverty and hunger. Poverty rates are 20 percentage points higher in countries affected by repeated cycles of violence over

the last three decades. Every year of violence in a country is associated with lagging poverty reduction of nearly one percentage point. People living in countries currently affected by violence are twice as likely to be undernourished and 50 percent more likely to be impoverished.

Their children are three times as likely to be out of school .

Countries with serious human rights abuses or weak government effectiveness, rule of law, and control of corruption have a 30 - 45 percent higher risk of civil war, and significantly higher risk of extreme criminal violence than other developing countries.

The threat of death and serious injury resulting from conflict can result in such a desperate situation that people leave their homes. This is in spite of the fact that this requires leaving nearly everything behind: house and land, sources of income, and most possessions, becoming uprooted from the place where you have lived (which was home and loved), to go typically a journey of great danger in search of a better alternative, which is usually a very bare bones refugee camp or other marginal situation. Africa had an estimated 13.5 million refugees and internally displaced persons in 2011, as Table 1 indicates.

While not all refugees are caused by conflict/violence, most of them are.

Africa faces serious environmental challenges, including erosion, desertification, deforestation, and most importantly drought and water shortages, which have increased poverty and hunger by reducing agricultural production and people’s incomes. Many of these challenges have been caused by humans; the environment can be said to be overexploited.

Deforestation, for example, has been caused by humans seeking new places to live, farm, or obtain firewood. Drought, water shortage and desertification in Africa have been caused to some extent by global warming, which has mostly been caused by the effects of human energy use outside of Africa.

Africa’s population has been increasing rapidly, growing from 221 million in 1950 to 1 billion in 2009. Africa, the world’s poorest continent, has the highest population growth rate.

A woman in sub-Saharan Africa will give birth to an average of 5.2 children in her lifetime (Guardian 2011). This rapid growth, along with other negative factors such as harmful economic systems, conflict and deterioration in the environment, has limited growth in per capita income, causing poverty and hunger.

Indeed, the African leaders have a huge challenge of evolving a rich and sustainable strategy to tackle poverty in the continent.

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PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESday, JUNE 24, 2015

News

Again, Boko Haram kills 17 in Borno, as blast kills scores in Yobe

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oko Haram has again attacked Borno state, specifically in Dabiro the hometown of the newly promoted commander of the Multi-National Joint Task Force, Major General Bata Dabiro.

This makes it the third time the area has been attacked by the insurgents according to eyewitnesses..

The militant reportedly arrived the town last night and began shooting sporadically, killing about 17 people and injuring several others.

According to reports, the insurgents retreated momentarily and returned later while those affected were burying their dead relations, an in the process killed more people.

According to Usman Malgana, who spoke to newsmen from the General Hospital in Biu, not less than 26 people were killed during the Boko Haram attack, while 20 are currently receiving treatment at the hospital with doctors battling to save their lives.

Meanwhile, a female suicide bomber on Tuesday detonated her Improvised Explosive Devices in Nannawaji village of Gujba Local Government Area of Yobe State in north-east Nigeria, killing scores of people and injuring 26 others.

Witnesses said those injured in the suicide bomb attack had been taken to the Damaturu specialist’s hospital for treatment.

An eyewitness, who accompanied the victims to the hospital in Damaturu, Mallam Adamu, told Channels Television that the suicide bomber attacked the market around 10: 30 in the morning.

He claimed many people were killed but could not give the figure. “The market was in disarray after the attack,” he said.

Mallam Ademu, however, stated that 26 victims had been taken to the Damaturu Specialists Hospital for treatment.

Security forces are yet to confirm the attack but the Medical Director of the hospital, Dr Garba Fika, said that 26 patients had been brought to the hospital and were being treated.

He said three patients had been taken to the theatre for various operations.

Dr Fika stated that three or four others may be referred to either Federal Medical Centre in Nguru, Azare in Bauchi State or the Aminu Kano Hospital in Kano.

No group has claimed responsibility for the attack that bears the semblance of previous attacks by the Boko Haram terrorist group.

Today’s suicide bomb attack is the first of its kind in Yobe State since the commencement of the Ramadan fast which is in its sixth day.

Niger, Sokoto, Kebbi, others set to fight border bandits From Yakubu Mustapha, Minna

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iger state government has concluded plans to join forces with four other state to flush out armed bandits and militants hiding on the forest lining along borders of Niger, Kaduna, Kebbi, Sokoto, Zamfara States and Benin Republic.

Governor Alhaji Abubakar Sani Bello has taken the lead by inviting his neigbouring state governors of the affected areas to a meeting at a date yet unknown, for a Joint Force to flush out the armed bandits and militants on the forest along the belt of the states.

Commissioner of Police, Niger State Command, Mr. Emmanuel Amore made this known in

Minna yesterday, while speaking to newsmen after a closed door meeting with members of the state House of Assembly over security challenges in the state.

Amore said, “it has been discovered that the large forest that cut the border line of Niger, Kaduna, Kebbi, Sokoto and Zamfara states as well as to Republic of Benin harbours some militants and armed bandits.

They hide in the forest, come out to unsuspecting public to wreck havoc and run back to the forest.

“The good news is that the governor (Bello) has taken it as a challenge to work with governors of these neighbouring states to jointly operate and root out these armed bandits and militants hiding on the forest lining along same belt across the states”.

The CP was summoned to appear before the House following a motion by Hon. Umar Jiya, Mashegu constituency, calling on the Niger State government to prevail on the Commissioner of Police of the state to upgrade security surveillance and antirobbery campaign in Mashegu local government area of the state.

The other motion filed by Hon. John Paul Bahago, Munya constituency, calling on the state government to impress upon the Federal Government to draft men of the Nigerian Army to curb the persistent menace of armed robbery attacks in the area.

The house then directed the Commissioner of Police to appear before it explain the security situation in the state.

The Police Commissioner

said he was able to brief the law makers of the security achievements recorded over time and also highlighted the challenging of policing the state with the largest land mass in the country.

“I was able to brief the lawmakers of what we are doing, especially our new drive of Community Policing, which he said was borne out of the reality that security of live and property require the involvement of all.

It could be recalled that on Monday the Niger state governor, Abubakar Sani Bello seek for the support of the Inspector General of Police, Mr. Solomon Arase in Abuja over the illegal occupation of the militants and the havoc wrecked on the people of the affected states.

President Muhammadu Buhari (9th right), Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo (9th left), in a group photograph with governors, after the president’s first meeting with 36 state governors, yesterday at the Stat House, yesterday in Abuja.

Photo: Joe Oroye

FG, states, LGs share N418bn May allocation

By Sunday Etuka

T

he three tiers of government have shared N418.4bn for May at the Federation Accounts Allocation Committee meeting, it emerged yesterday.

Breakdown of the sharing formula showed that the Federal Government got N151.8bn, States, N76.9bn and LGs, N59.3bn.

The gross of N324.061 billion naira revenue received for the month was higher than the N282.062 billion naira received in the previous month by N41.999 billion naira.

According to a communiqué issued by the technical subcommittee of FAAC yesterday, delays in issuance of third

quarter 2015 export permit led to a drop of about N160, 000 bopd in April 2015.

The distributable statutory revenue for the month is N324.061 billion naira.

The sum of N6.330 billion naira was refunded by the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC to the Federal Government, the communiqué said, adding that there is exchange gain of

N 31.240 billion naira which is proposed for distribution.

Accordingly, the total revenue distributable for the current month (including VAT) is N418.452 billion naira.

Controversy surrounds Jonathan’s son ‘death’ in London

By Lawrence Olaoye with agency report

R

esidents of Bayelsa reportedly wore sober look, following the rumoured death of Ariwera Jonathan, the son of the immediate past President of

Nigeria, Dr Goodluck Jonathan, at a London hospital on Monday, June 22, 2015.

According to media report, Ariwera was said to have been sick for a while.

The report suggested that, though, Jonathan has not been seen around for some time, no

member of the ex-president’s family in Otuoke, Bayelsa State, could confirm the development.

Concerted effort to contact Reuben Abati,the spokesman to the ex president for independent confirmation was not successful as his phones were not available.

PAGE 6

PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESday, JUNE 24, 2015

News

NLC commends NASS on proposed review of lawmakers pay From Femi Oyelola, Kaduna

N L-R: Vice-Chancellor, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Professor Joseph Ahaneku, with the new Chancellor of the university, Gbong Gwom Jos, Da Jacob Buba, during a visit on the new chancellor, yesterday in Jos. Photo: NAN

Ajumobi lambasts journalists covering APC secretariat

By Umar Muhammad Puma

J

ournalists covering the National Secretariat of the All Progressives Congress (APC), were yesterday humiliated by Oyo state governor, Abiola Ajumobi, saying he does not recognise any of the local media present at the party office.

The governor who is currently battling with unpaid salary in the Oyo State, came along other APC governors but descended on the journalists after an unfruitful meeting with the National Executive Council (NEC) of the party.

When the journalists approached him to comment on the behind closed door meeting with the party leadership, Ajumobi who asked all the journalists present one after the other the names of their media organisations, therefore shouted on top of his voice that “I don’t

know any of these media houses, so I can’t talk.”

Some of the media representatives present at the party Secretariat include Thisday, Telegraph, Vision fm, Leadership, Blueprint, Newsdairy, Lagos Television station, Galaxy TV, Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN) and the Niche among many others.

Ajumobi who spoke in Yoruba said: “I know what they want is money, call me one of my aides to find something for them, I don’t have time for any comment.”

Some of the journalists who were not comfortable with the insults therefore warned Ajumobi’s aide identified as Dayo not to approach them with money.

Our reporter, however, observed that some party loyalists at the event descended on the governor’s aide and forcefully collected the money.

Boko Haram: Buhari to honour Biya’s invitation after Sallah

By Lawrence Olaoye

P

resident Muhammadu Buhari has accepted to honour an invitation for talks on the intensification of cooperation between Nigeria and Cameroun in the war against Boko Haram insurgents by the Camerounian President, Paul Biya.

According to a statement by the President’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina, Buhari, after receiving an invitation through Mr. Sadi Rene Emmanuel, the Cameroonian Minister of Territorial Administration and Decentralization, said that he will visit Cameroon for the high-level talks soon after the end of the Ramadan fast.

Buhari, who said that he was putting his experience as a former soldier to good use in the war against Boko Haram, re-emphasized that greater regional and international cooperation was needed to end the atrocities of the terrorist group.

The President commended the efforts of all regional governments, including Cameroon to support Nigeria in the war against Boko Haram, but called for even greater collaboration.

“I am happy that the President has sent you. As you must have observed, I was in Niger and Chad over this issue. I planned to be in Cameroon afterwards, but I received an invitation to attend the Group of Seven (G7) meeting in Germany.

“I had to attend the meeting because Boko Haram has been internationalized and it was part of the discussions there,” he told Mr. Emmanuel.

The Special Envoy assured Buhari of Biya’s “fraternity, sympathy and brotherly commitment” to working with Nigeria to end the Boko Haram insurgency.

“Together, we will reinforce our efforts, eradicate the scourge of terrorism and look forward to better things,’’ he told the President.

Ramadan: Feeding of poor, window to loot public treasury – El-Rufai From Mohammad Ibrahim, Kaduna

K

aduna State Governor, Malam Nasir El-rufai, yesterday said the socalled feeding of the poor during Ramadan is a window to loot the public treasury with impunity, using religion as a cover by some individuals in the state.

It could be recalled that the State Governor last week announced its decision to discontinue the practice of distributing food items and gifts during Ramadan.

He disclosed while hosting religious leaders at the Government House, El Rufai, explained that the State is broke, and needs to tighten its finances

to serve the people better, in a manner that befits their massive support for change.

This was disclosed in a statement signed by his Media and Publicity Assistant, Samuel Aruwan and made available to newsmen in the state.

The governor’s comment generated an uproar in the state among various groups.

The statement added that ElRufai made it clear that the state government will no longer tolerate the siphoning of government resources in the guise of gifts to prominent politicians, public servants and famous figures, or the feeding of indigent persons during religious occasions; neither will it be involved in sponsoring people.

“The governor explained that the government has stopped issuing contracts to so called ‘super’ politicians to supply foods, beverages and other essentials as Ramadan gifts across the state because the process is entirely fraudulent with nothing tangible to show for it, except playing to the gallery to score cheap political goals and fraudulently enrich a few individuals.

“Findings have revealed how it is mainly prominent politicians and influential personalities that benefit from the Ramadan and Christmas gifts instead of the so called ‘poor’. Food stuffs, bought with public resources, are distributed to prominent government officials and other personalities

“While the poor in whose name those foods are procured queue in droves for crumbs and are constantly subjected to several forms of hardships and degrading circumstances after such sham gestures. The hundreds of million of naira involved have not translated into visible feeding points in Kaduna,” he said.

The statement added that the governor is committed to always helping the needy in a transparent and sustainable manner.

He said El-Rufai is focused on providing sincere leadership, and that includes taking steps against the looting of the public treasury in the guise of feeding ordinary citizens who are deprived of social justice and basic amenities.

igeria Labour Congress (NLC) has commended the leadership of the National Assembly, in particular the Senate for reportedly setting up 18-member committee to review legislators pay in line with economic realities of the country as well as draw up legislative agenda.

The National Deputy President of the Congress Comrade Issa Aremu stated this in a press statement made available to the media in Kaduna yesterday.

According to Aremu, with this singular legislative act, the 8th National Assembly has shown a commendable sensitivity in listening to the aspirations and concern of Nigerians as articulated by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) under our leadership.

The NLC Deputy President added that labour will partner with the leadership of the National Assembly to evolve a sustainable legislative agenda.

In particular, and will support the national assembly to ensure legislations that will reindustrialize the country, promote productivity and generate wealth and prosperity The statement reads in part” We hereby commend President Muhammadu Buhari for redirecting the energy of the military from internal to external security challenge. The removal of the military on the roads will facilitate movement of goods and people. Economic security of citizens is as important as the physical security “The Inspector General of Police, Solomon Arase must however make sure his men and women do not turn check points to extortion centre.

“We hereby warn the public, employers of labour, federal and state governments to beware of sweet-heart unionists and election riggers masquerading as the leaders of Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), when indeed they are agents of some sections of government “The self-acclaimed President of the NLC, Comrade Ayuba Wabba has just issued a silly unprovoked and prejudiced statement claiming we do not speak for the Congress. After he had dragged affiliate union members to court.’ he said

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PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESday, JUNE 24, 2015

News

Driver,25, jailed 3 months for driving without valid documents

L-R: National Programme Officer, UN Women, Adekemi Ndieli, I-G Solomon Arase, Police Gender Adviser, AC Bisi Kolawole, Executive Director, Cleen Foundation, Kemi Okenyodo, and others during the stakeholders consultative meeting on improving police response to sexual and gender based violence and gender mainstreaming, yesterday in Abuja.

Photo: NAN

A

Police arrest 3 suspected kidnappers in Makurdi

T

he Benue State Police Command announced on Tuesday that it had arrested three suspected kidnappers in Makurdi.

The Public Relations Officer of the command, Mr Austin Ezeani, gave the names of the suspects as Joseph Emeka, Oscar Ezeala and Sunday Nnaemeka.

He told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that an army deserter was among the suspects.

Ezeani said that the suspects

were caught while attempting to kidnap one Susan Audu from her residence in Makurdi.

The spokesman said that a revolver pistol containing eight rounds of ammunition was found with the suspects.

Ezeani said that Audu was driving out of her residence in a Toyota Siena bus, when the gang of five people intercepted and dispossessed her of the vehicle.

He said that they forcefully bundled her into the trunk of the

vehicle and made their escape along Gboko road.

Ezeani said the suspects ran out of luck, following Audu’s screaming which attracted commercial motorcyclists, who gave a hot chase.

He said the cyclists chased until they caught up with the vehicle at a military checkpoint in the outskirts of Makurdi, leading to the arrest of the suspects.

According to him, the suspects are now in detention at the Benue

State Command headquarters, while a search has commenced for two fleeing suspects.

He disclosed that one of the suspects still at large was an army lance corporal, serving at 82 Division of the Nigerian Army in Enugu.

Ezeani said the police had contacted the Army for the arrest of the fleeing suspect, assuring that the suspects would be charged to court as soon as investigations into the matter were completed. (NAN)

Police unleash detectives on kidnappers in Enugu State

T

he Enugu State Commissioner of Police, Mr Adamu Mohammed, said detectives and other operatives had been unleashed on the kidnappers who operated along OpiNsukka Road in the state.

Mohammed said this on Tuesday in Enugu when he spoke with newsmen after a private visit to Gov. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi.

The commissioner said that the route was an area of concern to the state Police Command due to the activities of criminals. ``The Opi-Nsukka road is

gradually becoming a hot-spot for criminals because we have had intermittent crimes committed there in terms of kidnapping. ``At the moment we have restrategised and if you pass through that road now you will notice improved presence of police detectives with increased number of vehicles,” he said.

Mohammed said that he had the permission of the governor to ensure that all manner of crimes in and around Nsukka were curbed. ``For the past two years we have put some strategies in place to ensure

that Enugu State maintains low crime.

It has been working for us and that is why the state has one of the lowest crime rates,” he said.

Hesaidthatthecommandhadbeen proactive in its approach in combating crime, adding that traditional rulers and the neighbourhood watch scheme had been one of their sources of strength.

The commissioner said that the state government had been resourceful in assisting the police to disharge its mandate. ``The state government has been

supporting us in providing the logistics and with all these available we see no reason why crime should be high,” he said.

Mohammed said that the command had since complied with the directive by the Inspector-General of Police to dislodge all road blocks across the country. ``“We don’t have road blocks in Enugu. What we do is pin-down where members of the public are observed and any suspicious vehicles will be cleared,” Mohammed said. (NAN)

Woman, 32, arraigned for alleged theft of N71, 000 with violence

A

32-year-old woman, Chinyere Asukwo, who recruits housekeepers for homes, was on Tuesday brought before a Somolu Chief Magistrates’ Court, Lagos, for allegedly obtaining N71,000 with violence from a housekeeper.

The accused, 32, whose address is unknown, is facing a three-count charge of attempted murder, obtaining money under false pretences and stealing.

The prosecutor, Insp.

Nurudeen Thomas, told the court that the accused committed the offences at an undisclosed location in Somolu on Dec.10, 2014.

Thomas said the accused stole N71, 000 belonging to a househelp, Glory Okoro, and also threatened to kill her with a knife. ``Okoro confronted the agent for her money after serving her boss at a house not stated after a period of time, but she refused to

pay her ``This led to an argument and the accused threatened to kill her with a knife,” he said.

Thomas noted that the offences contravened Sections 294, 312 and 383 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2011.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Section 294 provides 21 years jail term for stealing with violence, while Section 312 prescribes 15 years for

obtaining by false pretences.

Section 383 stipulates a two-year jail term for lending testimonial for impersonation.

The accused, however, pleaded not guilty.

The Chief Magistrate, Mrs B.O. Osunsanmi, in her ruling, granted the accused bail in the sum of N50, 000 with two responsible sureties in like sum.

The case was adjourned to July 10 for mention. (NAN)

n Ejigbo Senior Magistrates’ Court 2, Lagos State, on Tuesday sentenced a 25-year-old driver, Akeem Adeoye, to three months’ imprisonment for driving without a valid driver’s licence and a certificate of road-worthiness.

The Magistrate, Mr Peter Nwaka, who gave the ruling, said that Adeoye was guilty of a threecount charge.

He listed them as: reckless driving, not being in possession of a valid driver’s licence and being in possession of an expired certificate of road -worthiness.

“Adeoye is, hereby, sentenced to three months’ imprisonment with hard labour on charges of reckless driving, non-possession of a valid driver’s licence and possessing an expired certificate of road- worthiness.’’

However, the magistrate said that the convict would serve the jail term concurrently.

The magistrate said that, “The hearing in the charge bordering on assault on a police officer attached to the Motor Traffic Division of Igando Police Station , is adjourned to Sept. 3, for mention.’’

The Prosecutor, Cpl. Femi Adeleye, had earlier told the court that the convict had, on May 30 at 5.30 p.m., at Igando Market along Isheri-Igando Highway, driven recklessly.

“The accused on the said date and time, did drive a Vanagon Volkswagen commercial bus marked as- SMK 178 XMdangerously without due care and attention for other road users.

“He also drove the said vehicle without a valid driver’s licence, but had in his possession while driving, an expired roadworthiness certificate,” he said.

According to the prosecutor, the convict also beat-up and pulled-off the cap of a police officer attached to the Motor Traffic Division of Igando Police Station while discharging his lawful duties.

He said the offence on assault of a police officer contravened Section 172(b) and (f) of the Criminal Code Law of Lagos State, 2011.

Adeleye said that the offences on driving without a valid driver’s licence contravened Sections 19, Schedule III (I&II) of the Vehicle Inspection Offence and Penalties of Lagos State, 2012.

The convict, however, pleaded not guilty to the charge of assault, though, he pleaded guilty to the other three charges bordering on driving codes and ethics.(NAN)

PAGE 8

News

Ramadan: Prices of potatoes, tomatoes rise by 150 per-cent in Plateau

From Ado Abubakar Musa, Jos

T

he prices of Irish potatoes and tomatoes have risen by 150 percent in the markets in Plateau State shortly before the Ramadan commenced.

A market survey conducted on Tuesday in Bokkos LGA shows that a bag of Irish potatoes that used to sell for between N5, 000 and N6, 000 now goes for between N16, 000 and N17, 000.Similarly a basket of tomatoes that used to sell for between 1, 500 and N2, 000 some weeks before now goes for between N4, 500 and N5, 000 in the markets. Mr Samuel Mallo, Chairman, Traders and Marketers Association, Mai-katako market chapter,Bokkos Local Government, blamed the hike on this year’s late arrival of the rain.

He said,’ the late arrival of rain fall as experienced this year greatly contributed to the hike in prices of Irish Potatoes and tomatoes in both Bokkos and Mangu Local Governments at this material time; ``All the potatoes you see being sold in Mai-katako market today are irrigated ones and not the seasonal ones, which brought the hike in its price, `` he explained.

According to Mallo, under normal circumstances, it was expected that around this time, the seasonal varieties should be in the markets and at a cheaper rate.

Mallam NuhuUsman, a potatoes dealer from Kano State, lamented the hike in the price of the commodity, which said has affected his purchasing power. ``I used to buy between 150 and 200 bags at times like this, but I am sure whether I can effort 35 bags of Irish Potatoes today, `` Usman lamented.Usman said that he fear is how his customers in Kano would bear with him over the price hike more so that Ramadan was just around the corner.

Another dealer from Katsina, Mr Akilu Sani, who said he could only buy 15 bags of Potatoes out of the 30 bags used to buy whenever he comes to Mai-katako or Bokkos market days. Sani, added that he did not blame the farmers for the hike, but the late arrival of the rain this year, which he said contributed to the total absence of the seasonal farming produce.

However, Bokkos and Mangu Local Governments are the places where Irish potatoes are being produced in very large quantity that attracts people from every part of the country as well as Chad, Niger and Benin Republic. ``In fact, last year our council purchased 40 trucks load of fertilizers and sold it to us at subsidized rates but today the story is different,” he said.

PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESday, JUNE 24, 2015

Buhari pledges support for conflict resolution in Middle East

By Lawrence Olaoye

P

resident Muhammadu Buhari has pledged that Nigeria will continue to support all efforts aimed at the peaceful resolution of the Middle East conflict.

According to a statement made available to newsmen by the Senior Special Assistant

to the President on media and publicity, Mallam Garba Shehu, Buhari made the pledge while speaking at an audience with the outgoing Palestinian Ambassador to Nigeria, Dr Montaser Abuzaid, yesterday Buhari reaffirmed Nigeria’s support for the Palestinian cause.

While noting that Nigeria recognized the state of Palestine

31 years ago, Buhari assured Ambassador Abuzaid that his administration will maintain and strengthen bilateral ties with Palestine.

He wished the outgoing ambassador well in his future assignments.

In his remarks, Abuzaid extended the goodwill of Palestinian President

Mahmud Abbas to Nigeria and congratulated the President Buhari on his assumption of office after a peaceful transition.

He appealed for more support from the Nigerian government for Palestinian companies interested in doing business in Nigeria, particularly in the area construction and provision of critical infrastructure.

Muslim youth laud uniform commencement of Ramadan

From Ayodele Samuel,Lagos

T

his year’s uniform commencement of Ramadan has been described by Muslim youth as a good omen and adherence to divine injunctions by leaders, just as it also symbolized ‘unity’, the hallmark of Islam.

National Council of Muslim Youth Organizations (NACOMYO) in a statement

signed by its National President Alhaji Kamal’ddin Akintunde noted the laudable and commendable initiative of the leadership of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) led by the Sultan of Sokoto, Alh. Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar as that, that had broken the jinx which has caused a seemingly national embarrassment and predicament to the Nigerian “Ummah”

(Muslim Community) in the last three decades.

The group described the involvement of the National Space Research and Development Management Agency (NSRDMA) in the sighting of the new moon to determine the commencement of Ramadan fast as a proactive initiative and a step in the right direction, noting the inventiveness as an enduring legacy which must be sustained

for unity and advancement.

NACOMYO however charged Muslim bodies and groups to remain committed and be dedicated to the unity of the Ummah as an essential ingredient for national development. It reiterated that Islam emphasized unity, spelt out in Qur’an Chapter 3:103 “And hold fast, all together, by the rope which God (stretches out for you) and be not divided among yourselves.

L-R: Former Minister OF Justice, Chief Kanu Agabi, Book Presenter, Dr Ifeyinwa Obegolu, and representative of the Chairman of the occasion, Justice Keziah Ogbonnaya, during the 2015 FIDA Abuja Law Week, yesterday in Abuja.

Photo: NAN

El-Rufai condemns Kaduna gang fight, directs prosecution of culprits From Muhammad Ibrahim, Kaduna

K

aduna state governor, Malam Nasir Ahmad ElRufai yesterday condemned a gang fight that occurred in

Ungwan Rimi, Kaduna North Local Government Area of the state.

The governor’s Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Samuel Aruwan disclosed this in a statement conveying the governor’s position.

The skirmishes left one person dead while vehicles and properties were also destroyed.

According to Aruwan, the governor has directed Kaduna State Police Command and Ministry of Justice to swing into

Omeri rues death of Dan-Maraya Jos

By Ochiaka Ogwu

D

irector-General of the National Orientation Agency (NOA) Mr. Mike Omeri has described the death of one of Nigeria’s foremost Hausa folklore musicians, Adamu DanMaraya Jos as a great loss to the nation, saying he would be remembered for being a pillar of peace and unity in Nigeria.

Omeri said this while reacting

to the news of the Late DanMaraya who hailed from Jos, Plateau State and passed on at the age of 69.

In a release by the agency’s Assistant Director for Press, Mr. Paul Odenyi in Abuja, Omeri noted the folklore singer during his days enjoyed ‘the overwhelming love of his genre of music’ which he said, helped unite Nigerians across ethno-religious divides, adding that his artistry would remain a

tool for unity.

While remembering the role played by the late artiste as the agency’s ambassador for peace, he stated that NOA relied on figures like him to promote peace and unity in the country.

“The news of the death of DanMaraya Jos came as a shock. His music helps unites Nigerians. And also, NOA will miss him more for being our ‘Peace Ambassador” the statement read.

action and prosecute all culprits involved in the uprising.

The governor was quoted as saying, “The incident is condemnable and threat to peace.

We will not condone such act and we will explore all legal means at our disposal to punish all those involved without fear or favor.

“I have directed the Police to work hand in hand with Ministry of Justice and bring to book all the culprits involved in this lawlessness and violence that took place.

“Any one found will not be spared, no matter how highly placed and powerful they are in the state or beyond. It is a demonstration of our resolution against harassing and intimating innocent with impunity throughout the length and bread of Kaduna state.”

PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESday, JUNE 24, 2015

Page 9

News

FG launches ECOWAS common external tariff

T

he Nigerian Customs Service on Tuesday officially launched the ECOWAS Common External Tariff (CET) (2015-2019) together with its Supplementary Protection Measures (SPM) and 2015 Fiscal Policy Measures.

NAN reports that the CET was established in 2013 to foster a common market and the removal of trade obstacles to free movement of persons and goods within West African countries.

Speaking at the launch in Lagos, Mr Abdullahi Dikko, the Comptroller-General of Customs, represented by Mr Victor Gbemudu, said that he had directed immediate enforcement of the tariff provisions by all customs area commands.

He urged all stakeholders to ensure compliance with the new ECOWAS tariff.

“The approved Supplementary Protection Measures and Fiscal Policy Measures comprise of an Import Adjustment Tax (IAT) list which involves additional taxes on 177 tariff lines of the ECOWAS CET. ``It also includes a national list which consists of items whose import duty rates have been reviewed to encourage more development in strategic sectors of the economy.

“With the IAT, since we are in a transition period between now and 2019, importers would pay levies in the country they are importing from and the ones they export to pending when the CET is finally begun in 2020.

“It is also designed to help countries that have to adjust to a lower tariff structure to undergo a smooth transition to the CET when it is ready,’’Dikko said.

The President of ECOWAS Commission, Mr Kadre Ouedraogo, assured member-countries that the leadership of ECOWAS would ensure the regulation of all the protocols of the CET in all member countries.

“I want to assure you that ECOWAS will make sure that the protocols of the CET will be enforced,’’ he said.

He advised that countries should make their ports comfortable enough to boost trade facilitation. Mr Muda Yusuf, the Director-General, Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), urged the service to publish a comprehensive soft copy of the tariff on the agency’s Website for stakeholders to access.

Yusuf also urged the government to put efforts together to fight dumping and faking of goods, which he said, was killing the Nigerian industries.

Dr Eugene Nweke, the President, Nigerian Association of Government-Approved Freight Forwarders (NAGAFF), urged stakeholders to invest in training programmes to meet up with the demands of full implementation of the CET. (NAN)

L-R: Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Science and Technology, Mrs. Winifred Oyotta, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Works, Mr. Dauda Kigbu, Director General/Chief Executive Officer, Nigerian Building and Road Research Institute (NBRRI), Professor Danladi Matawal, and Director General, National Space Research and Development Agency, Professor Seidu Mohammed, during the 2015 NBRRI International Conference, yesterday in Abuja.

Photo: Mahmud Isa

Three secondary school students drown in Kwara From Olanrewaju Lawal,Ilorin

T

hree secondary school boys of Ayaki secondary school,Okerimi-Oro community in Irepodun local government area of Kwara state have drowned in a Well.

It was learnt that the three students, who are within ages 14, and 15 are students of Ayaki

secondary school located in the area.

It was gathered that one of the three students had tried to fetch water from the well in the community to perform ablution before prayer last Friday when he incidentally fell inside the well.

An eye witness who craved for anonymity said, “Instead of alerting adults around to rescue

his drowning mate, he tried to climb down the well to do the rescue but also fell inside and likewise the third boy, and thereby throwing the entire community into mourning mood since the weekend”,.

According to the member of the community, a supernatural twist was introduced to the incident, saying the leaves thrown

inside as part of rituals got dried adding that the well later got dried after the corpses were taken out.

Efforts to speak with parents of the deceased proved abortive as they refused to talk with journalists, while relations described the incident act of God. The relations described them as agile and promising boys who are also respectful to elders.

NOA partners NYSC on anti-corruption, ethical values

By Ochiaka Ugwu

T

he National Orientation Agency (NOA) and National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) have entered a new partnership towards promoting the new government’s anti corruption, discipline and ethical values.

The collaboration will enable NOA volunteers, the Community Support Brigade, Citizens Responsibility Volunteers and NYSC corps members deployed to communities across the nation to

work together in promoting good virtues.

NOA Director General, Mike Omeri, who led a team of the Agency’s management for a meeting with his NYSC counterpart, Brig-Gen. Johnson Olawunmi said it was necessary to harmonize the effort of the two organizations that have the spread and integration in the fight for discipline and anti corruption in the nation.

Speaking further, Omeri said NOA has been working

on establishing a community based movement for the aim of promoting discipline in society, both in the culture and values of different parts of the country.

He advocated the teaching of civics in schools and communities as a way of regenerating the positive attitudes among youth and other segments of the larger society.

While responding, Gen. Olawunmi noted that the emergence of the present administration has rekindled

the need for value reorientation among Nigerians saying the collaboration is aimed at achieving the goal.

However, Olawunmi expressed optimism in the partnership maintaining that with the spread of the two agencies, the goal of massive education and enlightenment of Nigerians would be achieved.

A technical committee comprising of staff of the two organizations was set up to draft an implementation plan.

Nupe Kingdom holds special prayers to mark day

From Yakubu Mustapha,Minna.

T

he emirate in Nupe kingdom held special prayer sessions to mark the 7th nupe day celebration starting with special if tar (Breaking of fast) on Friday and ending with Special service on Sunday.

This was contained in a statement made available to Journalists yesterday in Minna and signed by the head of the

Publicity committee of the Nupe Day Celebrations Alhaji Mohammad Kudu Abubakar stated that the celebration that usually take place every 26th of June coincided with this year Ramadan.

Consequently he stated that the celebration will take place simultaneously in the 8 Emirates of Nupe land across Kogi, Kwara and Niger states instead of the annual events that attract Nupe sons and daughters to Bida.

According to the statement the celebration will be led by the Etsu Nupe Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar at his Wadata palace in Bida and other Etsus will lead same celebration in their different places across Kinupe (Nupe land) with a special Jumuat prayers on Friday the 27th June.

The Etsu Nupe the statement added will be expected to deliver a special message at the Wadata palace after iftar, special sermon

and prayers with his people seeking for Allah’s mercy and blessing for the land.

The statement said that on Sunday all churches in Nupe land will also be expected to offer special church services for peace and progress of the land and the people of the land.

The statement therefore enjoined all the sons and daughters of the Nupe Kingdom to join in all the activities to mark the celebration.

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News

Sen Nyako distributes seedlings to 30,000 farmers in Yola From Umar Dankano, Yola

S

enator Abdul’Aziz Murtala Nyako, of Adamawa central senatorial district has donated improved maize seedlings for distribution to 30,000 farmers in his constituency.

Presenting the seedlings in ceremony in Yola weekend, Nyako explained that the gesture was part of effort by his office to tackle poverty at the grassroots through agriculture.

He noted that being an agrarian zone, the best way to empower the people of the senatorial zone is through agriculture noting that agricultural experts will go round the senatorial zone to assist the farmers on how to use the improved seedlings for better yield.

Nyako added that the hybrid seed is not only drought resistant but also provide high yield per hectare.

“Our major concern is to eradicate poverty as such it becomes imperative to bring succor to our people especially in the wake of the ravaging insurgent activities in our land.

“I urge you to make good use of the seedlings because the benefit is unquantifiable,” he said.

He urged those entrusted with the distribution of the seedlings to ensure that it reaches the poorest farmers just as he urged the people to exercise patience with the regime of APC as it will definitely bring about the change it promised the people during its campaign tours.

In his remarks, the agricultural expert handling the exercise Mr. Joseph Jaryum, explained that the seedlings are capable of producing between 60 -70 bags per hector of land and takes between 60 - 70 days to mature.

He urged the people to appreciate the gesture by ensuring that they comply with the instructions of experts on the usage of the seedlings adding that “with these seedlings, you will be out of poverty in no time.”

PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESday, JUNE 24, 2015

NLC disowns Ajaero, Aremu

By A’isha Biola Raji

T

he Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has warned Comrades Joe Ajaero and Issa Aremu to desist from issuing statements concerning the general labour movement.

The congress however clarified that both Comrades Ajaero and Aremu can speak on their unions;National Union of Electricity Employees and National Union of Textile, Garment and Tailoring Workers as affiliates of labour congress.

This was contained in a statement signed by the president of NLC, Comrade Ayuba Wabba, he said since both Comrades lost their bids to be president and deputy president, respectively, of NLC at the

rescheduled March 14, 2015 elections of Congress, they had continued to issue statements in which they persistently claim to be president and deputy president.

He said one such statement was on the alleged decision of the National Assembly to voluntarily cut its budget from N150 billion to N120 billion.

NLC said it had however alerted international allies; Organisation of African Trade Union Unity (OATUU), International Trade Union Confederation-Africa (ITUCAfrica) and International Labour Organisation (ILO), among other labour bodies, to discountenance any correspondence from Comrades Joe Ajaero and Issa Aremu if it is purported to be on behalf of NLC.

Labour alleged that all such statements by the duo amount to impersonation. Wabba also alleged that all instances since Comrades Ajaero and Aremu lost their bids to be elected as president and deputy president are clear cases of criminal impersonation.

The statement read: “While we had restrained the National Secretariat from publishing a disclaimer in the hope that commonsense and sanity will eventually prevail on our comrades to stop this delusion, it has become clear to us and the entire labour movement that Comrades Ajaero and Aremu are determined to continue in their criminal enterprise of impersonation as president and deputy president of NLC. “We had course to recently

alert our international allies; Organisation of African Trade Union Unity (OATUU), International Trade Union Confederation-Africa (ITUCAfrica) and International Labour Organisation (ILO), among other labour bodies – to discountenance any correspondence from Comrades Joe Ajaero and Issa Aremu if it is purported to be on behalf of NLC”, the congress affirmed.

The congress said it also ready to dialogue with the faction if they are willing.

Ambode pledges to protect women in Lagos

From Ayodele Samuel, Lagos

L

L-R: Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, Dr. Ezekiel Oyemomi, and Director, Women and Gender Affairs, Mrs. Esther Eghobamien, during a press briefing in commemoration of 2015 International Widows Day celebration, yesterday in Abuja.

Photo: Mahmud Isa

Onitsha: Metallurgical training institute students protest poor accommodation, others From Osakhare Erese, Asaba

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here was unprecedented unrest in the history of federal government owned Metallurgical Training Institute (MTI), Onitsha, Anambra state as students of the institute protested poor hostel accommodation, rejection of the school’s diploma certificate by other federal government institutions among other agitations yesterday.

Trouble started in the school Wednesday last week when some graduates of the school, who had gone to Petroleum Training Institute, Effurun, Warri, Delta state to further their studies were rejected by PTI and allegedly chased out by some security agents attached to

the school over the excuse that MTI Diploma Certificate was not recognized by Petroleum Training Institute which is also a Federal Government owned institution.

The aggrieved students, who were rejected by PTI were said to have communicated with some of their colleagues who are still studying at MTI that they were wasting their time as the Diploma Certificate from the school which is under the Federal Ministry of Mines and Power was not recognised outside the school on graduation.

The situation was said to have angered the students who now organized themselves and delegated the student’s union executives and some of the best minds to approach the director of

the school, Mr. I. I. Okonkwo to know his reaction.

Meanwhile the Gbaramatu Kingdom would ever be grateful to the Federal Government for the establishment of Nigeria Maritime University at Okerenkoko community in Warri South West Local Government Area, Delta State and would has promised not to disappoint the government in providing the enabling environment for the management f the institution.

These were the comments of two illustrious sons of the kingdom, Chief James Tangbowei and Mr. Monday Mieyefa, chairman and vice chairman of Okerenkoko federated community saying collectively they will make the Maritime university to actualise its purpose.

agos State Governor, Akinwunmi Ambode yesterday pledged his commitment to vigorously pursue programmes that would guarantee and protect the rights of women in the State.

Speaking during the commemoration of this year’s Public Service Day in Lagos, Ambode said the day brought to mind the collective desire to empower women and help them realise their potential, irrespective of status, religion and backgrounds.

Represented by the Deputy Governor, Dr Idiat Adebule, Ambode said with the right programmes and policies in place, women and girls in the state can be more productive and empowered for better life.

Speaking on the theme ‘the Role of Public Service in Women Empowerment, Innovation and Access to Service Delivery’, Ambode urged public servants to imbibe and develop new approaches that would enhance better service delivery.

“This day was initiated to appreciate the contributions of public servants to the socioeconomic development of the state.

“It provides us the opportunity of assessing, reflecting and reviewing the progress we have made so far, as well as our efforts to re-engineer the public service of Lagos State to meet the aspirations of Lagosians.

“Dear public servants, the time have come to rise to the occasion by developing new approaches that will enhance better service delivery.

“On our part, we will continue to encourage and reward diligence and resourcefulness.

“We will be committed to deliver on our campaign promises and ensure a better life for our citizens and the entire workforce. We, however, count on your continued support and cooperation,” he said.

Page 11

PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESday, JUNE 24, 2015

EDITORIAL

lmost two years after gunmen in a tricycle opened fire on 9 female health workers on routine immunization in Kano metropolis, their killers have not been found and prosecuted. The Friday, February 9 attacks left two women dead at FilinKashuhealth centre and seven at HayenHotoro.

No doubt the incidents and the failure of the police to bring the killers to justice were a major setback in Nigeria’s renewed campaign against polio.

Nobody or organization claimed responsibility for the murders then. However, not long before the young women’s killing, gunmen believed to be elements in the violent Boko Haram sect had attacked the convoy of the historical city’s late emir, Alhaji Ado Bayero.

And a day before then, a man had gone on radio to denounce the immunization exercise aimed at saving vulnerable to affliction by the wild polio virus. The Kano State Government countered, saying the man was wrong. But in a society very distrusting of government, its statement went largely ignored.

Reacting to the killings, the state’s then Commissioner of Health, Dr. Abubakar Labaran, said it was “sad” that gunmen targeted the female health workers. The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), in a statement, described the killings as “cruel murders”.

On his own part, Speaker, House of Representatives, AlhajiAminuTambuwal, said the killings were “barbaric and inhuman” and “meant to instil fear in residents with a view

to stopping the immunisation exercise.” A presidential spokesman said President Goodluck Jonathan had extended “commiserations” to families of the victims and vowed to ensure “total eradication of polio from Nigeria” in spite of the current setback.

We welcome the prompt condemnation in official quarters of this handiwork

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A

Where are those heartless killers?

To sustain the polio campaign, health workers in the forefront must be protected by the state. of the forces of evil. The young women killed in Kano were the heroines of the effort at eradicating polio in the North which has made Nigeria one of only three countries in the world where polio has remained endemic. They were the “foot soldiers” in a must-winwar to save the lives of endangered children in this part of the country.

There are many reasons why the killers of those women and their sponsors must be brought to book quickly. If they are not, unarmed women who today drive

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the frontline war against polio and other child killer diseases including smallpox will be driven off the streets and health centres will shut down, not only in Kano but the entire North. Now if this is the case, we shall no sooner be back to 2003. That was the year that some Kano clerics mounted a sustained campaign aimed at portraying the polio vaccine as a birth control drug. The impact was that resistance to immunization increased and polio which was all but eradicated in Nigeria bounced back with a vengeance.

That year’s reversal of the gains of the campaign forced a change in strategy by the government and its foreign donors. They resolved to make use of local traditional rulers and community leaders, ignored before, to drive the programme.

Now the prevalence rate in the North is dropping again, but old enemies are resurfacing. The attacks in Kano polio were just their first salvoes. More are likely to come. This is why the perpetrators must be fetched out fast and made to face the music.

It does not help that the most polio endemic areas of the North are those also caught up in the Boko Haram insurgency. To sustain the polio campaign, health workers in the forefront must be protected by the state. Clearly, that was not the case with the 9 women killed in Kano. Reports say that soldiers from the Joint Task Force (JTF) stationed in the city arrived on the scenes only after the killers had fled. This blunder must not repeat itself.

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Opinion

PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESday, JUNE 24, 2015

As we gaze upwards in supplication at Ramadan

By Victoria Ngozi Ikeano

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t is that time of the year when the faithfuls gaze upwards in supplication at Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. Ramadan is often referred to as the ‘holy month’; understandably, because in this period, we think more or are expected to think more of the Almighty while attending to earthly affairs of feeding, entertainment et all for some hours after sunset; the remaining few hours in the 24 hour cycle we spend in sleeping. And when we are asleep, our thinking faculty simultaneously departs us; we are unable to ‘sin’ when we are fast asleep, so to speak. Thus at Radaman, we engage in fasting – refraining from food, water and sex during the daytime , endeavour to delve into the teachings of the Prophet to better understand and imbibe them in truth, engage in charity and prayers. In brief we endeavour to be pious.

Nigerians are said to be a religious people which is true but whether we are really spiritual is another matter altogether. Being religious means observing the doctrines and practices; while being spiritual means making the divine messages part and parcel of your life, living them at all times and in everything. If we actually live the tenets of our religions, thus becoming spiritually active, we would not be grappling with the varieties of hatred that suffuse our world, resulting in mindless

murders, violence and wars (big and small) that envelope us. Alas, for most of us, we labour to be pleasing in the eyes of the Lord during Ramadan and the Lenten (Easter) season. But soon after, we get carried away by the hustle and bustle of everyday living, soon relapse into our old ways, gel with the noisy crowd for whom nothing is sacred anymore, and soon forget the enduring truths which our quiet reflections during the important periods of Ramadan and Lent bequeath on us. These droplets of truths are like spiritual seeds within us which need to be constantly watered by us, (through vigilance, not faltering) leading us step by step to All truths; whereby, we come to the certainty of the demand, “The Wisdom of the GOD rules the World, strive you men to perceive His magnitude”. Some of us do come to recognition at these times.

“Watch and Pray”, is an admonition from above. However, as with everything with us, we concentrated mostly on the word ‘pray’, forgetting the twin part ‘watch’ which requires of us to exert ourselves, to constantly see to it that we are on the right path and toe it.

We may now say there are many distractions in today’s world that retard us from keeping our gaze and feet on the path shown. That is why we have to bestir ourselves and stand up against the darkness.

But when once we evince an honest, earnest volition in that regard, we can be sure of help from the Lord, but not before. Apparently, it is to remind us of the need to

have our gaze upwards, to heaven, paradise, that religious institutions introduced a fasting period, as we often bury our heads literally downwards, engulfed in earthly pursuits. Were we to continue like this concerned only with food, drinks and entertainment- the little flame or droplet of truth within us would soon wither off and we shall lose all support from Above, the source of all life. ‘Seek you first the kingdom of God and all other things shall be added unto you’.

As I stated earlier, the aim of fasting is to make us concentrate on matters celestial. In depriving ourselves of food and water, which maintains the body, the magnet that gels the physical body and the spirit or soul (according to our level of understanding), together, is a little bit slackened and so we think more of spiritual things for the time being. We have to go about it this way because of our level of spiritual immaturity. If we were spiritually more mature, we should be able to think of God at all times whether on an empty or full stomach. It is just like praying; most of us are

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able to concentrate with our eyes closed; whereas a few others are able to pray just as fervently even with their eyes open, oblivious of their surroundings in their state of concentration.

Will those people who have taken up arms against their fellow human beings in their quest to carve out a state within a country or countries, notably in the northeast and Middle Eastern countries, be partaking in the Ramadan fast?

If they profess to be adherents of the religion, they should, should they not? Then, should they undertake this sacred obligation genuinely, steadfastly and humbly – fasting, praying, seeking to better understand the message of Prophet Muhammed (SAW) by digging into his words, then they should come to a better recognition.

Our loving thoughts and prayers to them in this holy month of Ramadan are for them to come to true recognition and turn a new leaf. Will these militants and their ilk, wherever they are operating, be observing a ceasefire during this Ramadan? Again if

Will those people who have taken up arms against their fellow human beings in their quest to carve out a state within a country or countries, notably in the north-east and Middle Eastern countries, be partaking in the Ramadan fast?

State universities threaten our kids future

By Biola Sobowale

“We have not been paid for the past eight months.” Resident Doctors at the Ladoke Akintola University of Technology Teaching Hospital, Osogbo.

Back page, PUNCH, June 19, 2015.

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n the same page Professor Ayo Olukotun, had this to report. “A time there was when some state-owned universities excelled in certain disciplines nationally and retained outstanding academics in their workforce. Today, that cheerful trend had been totally reversed as more than a fair number of these institutions are run on a hand to mouth basis..”. Olukotun was guilty of under-statement. There is no state university in Nigeria today which is not “run on a hand to mouth basis”. Not even, the State of Excellence, Lagos has escaped the sad fate which had befallen others throughout the country. With few exceptions, sending a kid to a state university implies expecting a halfbaked or even unbaked product back afterwards. If Olukotun had stepped into the premises of some of the state universities I had been unfortunate to visit he would shed tears of blood for Nigeria. Most of them simply lack “the idea of the university” as it is

globally understood. And all the federal universities established by Jonathan are not far behind. In fact, some are worse.

Osun State has inexplicably been in the news, more than any other state and the picture of the staff carrying placards is only the latest embarrassment to the state government. Before that, the state was in the news for sacking the Governing Board, the Vice Chancellor and the Deputy Vice Chancellor on the recommendations of a Visitation panel. At least a few more professors will depart the university as a result.

Lagos State University, LASU, had been the theatre for a prolonged battle between the VC, some academic staff, NonAcademic Staff and students.

There is probably nobody connected with LASU who is not in the trenches doing battle against somebody else. Is this a university in Nigeria or ISIS versus Syria, Iraq and Kurds? How can meaningful learning be undertaken under a siege environment?

The last two examples have been cited just to let Professor Olukotun and our readers know that poor and inadequate finance constitutes only part of the problem in our state universities. It was Professor Ajibade Rokosu, LASU, who implanted in my mind the concept of the “idea of a university”; which,

if lacking will render even the most well-endowed university on earth worthless.

In Nigeria, “the idea of the university” is frequently absent because state universities, being creations of politicians, rather than educationists, are politicized ab initio. Locations are based on political considerations and the top appointments follow the same pattern.

That said, it must be acknowledged that poor finance has now become so pervasive and crippling that even the best faculties and administrators will find it impossible to maintain any semblance of discipline in the university. Eight months unpaid salaries, if true, by any measure imaginable is inexcusable and it raises the question: can the states no longer afford to run their universities? The answer to that question might trigger the greatest socio-political outrage in

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the country. Already, Nigerians are becoming visibly angry about the outrageous remuneration package which the drunkards in charge of the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Financial Commission, RMAFC, had granted to elected officials and their appointed aides. It seems, and it is obscene, that in a nation where 70% of the people still live on less than $2 (N400) a day, elected officials will be granted “Wardrobe Allowance”. Were they campaigning in the nude?

Such almost criminal waste of our financial resources account for our inability to fund education properly.

We are now at the cross roads; we must now decide whether our current economic models for funding state [even Federal] universities are sustainable in the long run. Obviously, they no longer work. It is our collective responsibility to decide whether or

In Nigeria, “the idea of the university” is frequently absent because state universities, being creations of politicians, rather than educationists, are politicized ab initio. Locations are based on political considerations and the top appointments follow the same pattern.

they profess to be true Muslims, they should, should they not?

Not engaging in the type of thing they are now known for is one of the requirements of this period, is it not? Should they continue with their mindless killings then be it known that they are not true Muslims. You do not simply become a ‘Christian’ or ‘Muslim’ by the name you bear or by regularly going to the Mosque for prayers or attending church services. What makes you a Christian or Muslim is living the teachings which preach love, peace and justice.

All the spiritual messages that have come down to us were willed by the Almighty and given to the various peoples according to their levels of spiritual maturity at the time, by the Messengers and Prophets of God. These include Bhudda, Zoroaster, Muhammed.

As issued from the mouths of the Messengers and Prophets, they were pure.

But they were distorted by men (human beings) once they left us upon passing on. Hence, the seeming confusion today…

I conclude by quoting the apt words of President Muhammadu Buhari to Boko Haram insurgents and their like, “Let me use this auspicious occasion to appeal to our misguided brothers to drop their arms, embrace peace and seek a better understanding of Islam during this holy period and beyond”. RAMADAN KAREEM IKEANO(vikeano@yahoo. co.uk 08033077519)

not parents/students must assume a greater percentage of the cost of providing quality university or not.

One approach that would not work is the one taken by Professor Soremekun of National Open University of Nigeria, NOUN, which tose the populist/socialist line of asking for corruption to be wiped out first before fees can be increased. Even without a kobo stolen prices go up. Everybody is paying 2000% more for power generation today than when former Governor of Lagos State, Alhaji Jakande, started LASU. Yet power consumption is a major cost item for universities.

So, even if no VC steals a kobo, one million litres of fuel was purchased for N70,000 in 1980.

Today, the same one million litres would drill a N90 million hole in the university’s pocket. Even a saint, appointed as VC, still has to answer the question: who pays for the N89,030,000 difference?

State or the service users and in what proportions?

Those are the sort of issues which cannot wait until we get sensible people into RMAFC or totally honest people into governments.

The relentless decline in quality education will certainly not wait for us.

Biola Sobowale is a public commentator

PAGE 13

PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESday, JUNE 24, 2015

Comment

Why Nigerians pray for Buhari’s success

By Muhammad Ajah

“More things are wrought by prayer than this world dreams of”, Alfred Lord Tennyson.

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resident Muhammadu Buhari’s success in the next four years will place Nigeria in a level that has never been attained by any former Nigerian leader, no doubt. We all know that it will be so and that is why we have to pray for him especially in this holy month of Ramadan.

Many individuals and religious groups have been praying for him and for the country. It is a duty Nigerians owe their country and their leader. We must pray for the development of Nigeria and against any internal and external conspiracies against Nigeria and our President. Nothing good comes easy. Nigerians, therefore, must exercise some levels of patience and restraint and sacrifice individual whims and caprices for our expectations to be realistic and actualized.

Prayers move mountains.

Prayers have no boundary.

Supplication is the brain of worship. Many things are wrought through prayers than men have ever imagined. Prayer is the key to success. There many other quotations that reveal to the mortal that man’s powers are limited if it is not backed by divine intervention. God created and knows all languages. So, let us call Him in any tongue we know best. God created and knows all members of mankind.

So, let us invoke Him alone and from the depth of our hearts.

And God created and knows all things. So, let us utilize what God has given us – our lives and strength – to ask Him for what we need and desire for our country. There is a poetic piece that says: “God gets angry when you fail to ask Him; But the son of Adam (mankind) gets angry when he is asked.” There is another saying that God loves a believer who frequently (at all the time) asks Him. God does not get angry and tired in answering our sincere supplications. God loves

and answers the prayers of a person for his brother and sister from amongst mankind without the knowledge of the person prayed for. And God grants the worshipper the same for his or her sincerity of intention.

Yes, many instances are rife where failure was turned into success, poverty into riches and vice verse if there is injustice, weakness to strength, wickedness to love and death to life; all through prayers. I think that men have not yet utilized the powers in prayers, either due to ignorance or due to impatience in the pursuit of worldly transient favours and existences. Yes, prayers with sincerity and prayers with purity of the mind are what bring the positive results. It is not the prayers – incantations – of the ‘baba alawo’, ‘booka’ ‘dibia’, and the ‘commissioned men of God’, who are subtly called ‘juju priests’. It is not the prayers of acclaimed worshippers who collect money to pray for others.

It is not the prayers of the smart devils who even negotiate prices, name their rewards and cause damages to others by offering human/animal sacrifices in the name of prayers. And it is not the prayers of those who are unjust.

We are strong believers that God answers prayers of believers.

We are admonished to ask for all our needs from God, with intention and without being in haste for the answer. Every prayer that is devoid of bad intention is answered by God. Therefore, many Nigerians are praying for Nigeria – their only home on earth – and for their leader, President Muhammadu Buhari.

Such prayers are answered because the love of one’s nation is supposedly part of faith. Our faiths: Islam and Christianity preach peace, fairness, justice and development; and now that we have the leader who guarantees these transformational factors, there is no doubt that our prayers are answered. Today in Nigeria, the difference in governance is manifest. Without ministers, without political appointees and within three weeks of President Buhari’s leadership, the country

is changing positively through the collective prayers of Nigerians.

This is the more reason why our President must be very careful not to yield easily to the lust of many of the old generation politicians who are bent to grab political positions and continue business as normal in Nigeria’s governance.

The Executive Governor of Kaduna state, Mallam Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai, like many other Nigerian patriots have the strong belief that Mr. President came to repair our dear country, Nigeria, through the Hands of God by inspiring in the majority of Nigerians that the time for change has come for the nation.

El-Rufai and many governors of All Progressives Congress (APC) have started in earnest the change needed in their respective states. I think Kaduna’s El-Rufai and Kano’s Ganduje are the only state governors who, with their deputies, have slashed their annual income from the government coffer by 50%.

The episodes of El-Rufai’s unscheduled visit to public institutions like general hospital, his security strategies and his calculated ploys to recover the looted funds of the state are enough evidences that he has come to see and to conquer for the good people of Kaduna state.

Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, reclining on the proverb that “God’s Time is the best” averred that as believers, it was wrong to question why God had allowed Nigeria to remain in the hands of evil men for so long, despite the prayers of many Nigerians.

He insisted that God is with the people when they themselves decide to change. So in 2015, Nigerians decided to change the nation’s leadership with the best leader the nation has ever witnessed in the history of Nigeria in the person of President Muhammadu Buhari. “That is why God backed the people of Nigeria for the change”, he opined and enlisted Nigerians to keep praying for Mr. President.

Governor El-Rufai was speaking at a lecture organized by the Supreme Council for Shari’a

Child trafficking in Nigeria Kayode Miracle Ifeoluwa

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he trafficking of children for the purpose of domestic service, prostitution and other form of labour is a wide spread occurrence in Nigeria.

Women and children are employed with promises of good jobs in urban areas within the country or abroad realising later on that they have been lured into a debt bond. Victims are taken away from their families through the use of deception, violence, coercion.

Unfortunately, Nigeria is a source and destination country for trafficked children and women. Domestic, prostitution and exploitative labour continue

to give chance to this modern slavery.

The international Labour Organisation estimates that 1.2 million children are trafficked each year. The trafficking of women and children has been internationally recognised as a major human rights violation, one that exists in every region of the world. Yet, it is only within the past decades that the prevalence and ramifications of this practice have risen to international prominence, due to dramatic increase in research and public action.

The major international documents dealing with the trafficking of children are the 1989 U.N. Convention on the

rights ofthe Child, the 1999 I.L.O. Worst Forms of Child Labour Convention and the 2000 U.N. Protocol to Prevent, Suppress and Punish Trafficking in Persons, especially Women and children.

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in Nigeria (SCSN), under the able leadership of Dr. Ibrahim Ahmad Datti and the secretary general, Mallam Nafiu Baba Ahmad.

Dignitaries at the event included great scholars and politicians from across the country, some of who harped on the significance of prayers for success in any human endeavours.

The secretary general of the Jama’atu Nasril Islam (JNI), Dr. Khalid Abubakar Aliyu, supported by the Deputy Chairman1 of SCSN, Sheikh Hadiyatullah urged Muslims to invoke Allah’s guidance and inspiration for Mr. President so that he will lead Nigeria with justice, fairness and commitment.

The Jama’atu Nasril Islam (JNI) at its annual preRamadan lecture on Sunday on 7th June, 2015 in Kaduna, made recommendations for the success of the new government saying: “All those in the position of leadership should fear Allah (SWT) and be committed to justice, fairness, transparency and accountability in the discharge of their responsibility; Nigerians need to imbibe the culture of obedience to their leaders, cooperate with them and pray for them to successfully accomplish their duties to the society, amongst others. Mallam Salihu S. Abubakar, Imam of Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) Zaria, discussed “Duties and Responsibilities of the People towards the Leaders from the Islamic Perspective”, while Prof.

Tijjani El-Miskeen of University of Maiduguri (Unimaid), dwelled on “Exemplary Leadership as a Multi-polar Responsibility: An Islamic Perspective”.

JNI in a statement called upon Muslims to fervently pray for the restoration of peace, stability and security in Nigeria, and also implored state governments and well-to-do individuals to extend benevolent gestures, such as alms giving and supports to the millions of IDPs spread across the country, most especially those in the North East. This is the most appropriate time they need such

assistance. The organization urgedleaders at all levels to fear Allah (SWT) in discharging their responsibilities, so as to attract Allah’s ease against the present economic challenge facing the country.

In their own push for justice and fairness in Nigeria, Muslim youths organized a 3-Day capacity building/leadership training programme in Warri, Delta state where scholars and professionals did not only take participants through the ingredients required to be productive, efficient and selfreliant in life but also on issues relating to nation building and development. The youths in a communiqué signed by national vice president II and chairman, Southern zone of National Council of Muslim Youth Organizations (NACOMYO), Alhaji Mustapha Balogun and national assistant secretary general and general secretary, Southern zone, Abdul-Mojeed Momoh, noted that Muslims should continue to pray for continued peace, stability and progress of Nigeria, while appealing to Nigerians to exercise patience with the new government also to cooperate with it in the onerous task of governance.

NACOMYO observed the long time marginalization of Southern Muslims especially from South-East and SouthSouth geopolitical zones in political appointment and urged the present government at all levels to avoid such imbalance. The group advised that the rights of every group are accorded and protected.

They prayed that Allah (SWT) should guide, protect and grant the government at all levels the desirable wisdom to deliver on their campaign promises as such fulfillment will fast-track grassroots development.

Traffickers organize themselves through large international networks, which engage in many activities, such as drug trafficking or prostitution.

Conditioned to obey through physical and psychological violence, children are often

kept in foreign places. Research shows that the causes of child trafficking could be Poverty, Humanitarian Crises, Lack of Education, Absence of Birth Registration, Lucrative activity, Insufficient or Unenforced Legislation and various others.

Today, many solutions are possible to put an end to child trafficking.

Awareness, Strengthening the Law Enforcement System, Observance and effective international Cooperation is also important.

Unfortunately, Nigeria is a source and destination country for trafficked children and women.

Domestic, prostitution and exploitative labour continue to give chance to this modern slavery.

Muhammad Ajah is a writer, author, advocate of humanity and good governance based in Abuja E-mail:mobahawwah@ yahoo.co.uk

KAYODE MIRACLE IFEOLUWA Ajayi Crowther University Oyo.

PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESday, JUNE 24, 2015

PAGE 14

Current Issues Agenda for Buhari on sports

By Muazzam Garo Sule

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ports is all forms of usually competitive physical activity through casual or organized participation which is aimed to use, maintain or improve physical ability and skills while providing entertainment to participants, and in some cases, spectators.

As war against corruption, and to desire to improve security and power generation some of the Buhariâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s top priorities, sports development too is also very essential as most of Nigerian youths have chosen to make living out of it, apart from the leisure of its entertainment and fun.

It is not that Nigerians lack ideas or policies to follow on sports but that various governments have found it more convenient to give time, energy and money to providing electricity, security and job creation than paying just a little attention to sports.

The president must however note that sports forms a very critical sector in the life of the nation. Those who actively engage in sports are the youths who are the future of the nation. Sports today is more than just a pastime, it is a multibillion dollar industry

President Buhari which can offer employment to millions of our youths.

The sports sector deserves the best brains, professionals that can turn the fortunes of our sports around. Sports is practical and results are the determining factor that influences team selection, appointments. The president must therefore avoid considerations other than excellence in making appointments to the sector.

The president must allow companies producing sport wears to come and establish in the country. He should make a law that will encourage local firms to set up manufacturing companies across the country.

This will help in job creation and unemployed youths would be taken off the streets when the President implements the national sports policy where by

every local government is asked to develop sports facilities. With such facilities people can go out there in the evening for training, exercise and relaxation.

It is not building luxurious or big stadiums in state capitals that matters. It is more to do with minimum facilities that can provide the comfort to the citizens in every nook and cranny of the federation. We have seen how jumbo stadiums in some towns have been abandoned for lack of proper maintenance. In fact the National Stadium in Abuja is a classical example, it took almost a year to renovate for impending match as a result of lack of maintenance. But if every local government builds standard sports facilities, in few years, Nigeria would be producing world champions especially in football.

Furthermore, sport facilities will help reduce recycling of athletes. You can see in a country of over 170million people, you still find a player celebrating over 100 caps, which means he must have played for more than 12 years .it is because the facilities are not there for the youths to develop their talents.

In addition, we should develop youth academies. Sport has gone digital, you cannot do it manually, It is developing rapidly.

It must be restated that sports development can be utilise to project our country positively among comity of nations. It can supports and help in physical fitness and health improvement.

It can be utilise as veritable tools to actively engage the youths rather than allowing them to take into bad habits. To ensure that Nigeria is recognised global on high performance in global championships like the all African games, commonwealth games and the Olympics, it must improve its sports facilities and encourage private sectors to invest in the projects. The sports institutions too must be professionalised.

In conclusion, I must restate that the youths and sports cannot be separated. The government must also eradicate corruption in the sports sector and ensure that appointments for chief executives and trainers are based on merit so that our sport teams would be among the best in the world.

Muazzam Garo Sule Mass Communication Department Baze University, Abuja

Insurgency: Coping with Internally Displaced Persons

By Manzo Ezekiel

T

he recent successes of the military in the liberation of communities that were occupied by insurgents opened a new vista in the drive to support the people that were directly affected by the insecurity in the North eastern states of Borno, Adamawa and Yobe. Since 2009 following the escalation of the belligerence by Boko Haram, many lives have been lost, communities sacked and destroyed resulting in the fleeing of the residents to safety in various location considered safer, thus becoming internally displaced persons (IDPs).

The initial collection of the IDPs in few areas soon became more serious when more towns and communities became affected with sharp increase in the number of displaced persons. This was to become worse as the insurgents went on to occupied some of the local government areas in the three states. However, the Federal Governmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s response to the crises have been in two folds with military action to restore security as well as humanitarian intervention spearheaded by the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA).

From the onset of the escalation of the insecurity to date, NEMA has continued to keep faith with the mandate given it towards the provision of basic supports to the IDPs. The agency, working with the stakeholders activated its

National Contingency Plans in deploying the supports to everywhere the IDPs were found. At the heights of the displacement, the immediate neighbouring states including Gombe, Taraba, Bauchi, Plateau and as far as Kano, Abuja among others became the shelter of safety for the IDPs. There, NEMA was also with them distributing relief supports and providing necessary assistance required to alleviate their conditions.

As at April this year, the number of IDPs in camps and host communities stood at 22, 882 in Adamawa State; 939, 290 in Borno; 139, 591 in Yobe States.

In Bauchi the figure stood at 84, 667, Gombe 42, 587 and Taraba 62, 689.

With time, most of the camps that had sprang up spontaneously were reorganized for better management and care for the IDPs. NEMA deploy its officers that are permanently stationed in the camps to manage and assist the people in every areas of their basic needs. This is in addition to the regular delivery of relief supports comprising of both food and non-food items that are stockpiled and easily available for distribution to them. The Director General made it a point of priority to regularly review the condition of the IDPs and camp through personal visits to them as well as fortnightly humanitarian forum which usually bring together the stakeholders to discuss and fine tune the best available approaches. The forum

comprises representatives of relevant Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), United Nations Systems, local and International non-governmental organizations.

Beyond the shores of Nigeria, NEMA has taken humanitarian supports to Nigerians that fled across the borders to the Republics of Chad, Niger and Cameroon. Recently too, the agency received more than 17, 000 Nigerians in Geidam, Yobe State after they were forced to return home from the Republic of Niger over security issues around the Lake Chad areas where they were doing their fishing businesses. A transit camp was opened in catering for the returnees before they were fully transported to their various states.

With the recent liberation of the communities that were hitherto occupied by the insurgents, the agency has also undertaken needs and damages assessment in preparation for the required supports to enable the people return back to their homes. The assessments, which were first conducted in Adamawa state saw NEMA officials with the relevant stakeholders going to the affected communities in carrying out the damage assessment in which the records showed huge losses to public infrastructures and private property. These include offices, bridges, schools, hospitals, churches, mosques, homes, banks, markets, shops, etc. It was one of the foremost steps

NEMA DG, Alhaji Sani Sidi

towards creating confidence for the returns of the IDPs. As expected, some IDPs have since returned back home to the communities that were found to be less damaged.

In Yobe State, though there exist fewer number of formal camps, most of the displaced persons are living with host families while some of them have fled to the neighbouring states. Over the years, relief supports delivered by NEMA are distributed to them with the help of the State Emergency Management Agency (YOSEMA). Also, a special needs and damage assessment have been carriedout in liberated communities in the state preparatory to early return of the people back to their homes. The areas visited included some of the worst affected communities that included Gujba, Gulani and Kanama.

The latest assessment was carriedout in Borno State.

NEMA led an inter-ministerial committee in visiting most of the liberated and devastated communities, notable among the towns were Bama, Baga, konduga, Damboa, Biu and Monguno. The destruction in most of the communities include roads, bridges, offices, schools, worship centres, markets and shops, homes, etc.

While NEMA is continuing with the camp management and coordinating the stakeholders to support the IDPs, the agency is also focus on the preparation for their smooth return back home. Thus the assessment have provided useful data and enabled a new vistas in the caring for the IDPs. Manzo Ezekiel manzodon@yahoo.com Abuja

PAGE 15

PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESday, JUNE 24, 2015

Defection of Jonathan’s loyalists to APC, shameless, insignificant – PDP

Applicants in search of legislative aides job scrambling to get the attention of legislators at the lobby of National Assembly, yesterday in Abuja.

By Ahmed Abubakar with agency report

T

he Peoples Democratic Party, Bayelsa State chapter, has described defectors of some ex-President Goodluck Jonathan’s loyalists from the party to the All Progressives Congress in the state as shameless and inconsequential.

Recently, stream of defections has hit the PDP in Bayelsa State with those cross-carpeting accusing the party of lacking internal democracy, full of betrayals and deceits.

But at a news briefing on Tuesday at the PDP secretariat in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State capital, spokesman for the party, Osom Makbere, insisted that those that defected only displayed a show of shame, saying they had no electoral value.

Makbere said though the party was not disturbed by recent cases of defection of perceived loyalists of the former President Goodluck Jonathan, the defection was rather unfortunate.

He described them as “fair weather politicians”, who were only taking undue advantage of the loss of the PDP at the centre to reposition themselves as APC members so as to curry favour and attract patronage from the APC leadership.

The party spokesman said those who claimed to have dumped the PDP due to purported lack of proper governance were beneficiaries of the magnanimity of the present administration of Seriake Dickson.

He said, “Dickson appointed them to senior sensitive positions, contract awards and other prerequisites of the system are now turning around to say nothing is happening in the state.

“These fellows, who actually have no electoral value and whose fibre are also spent, are creating the impression that they are moving with supporters.

That the scanty number of persons present in the so-called defection rallies and ceremonies clearly show that they are lonely voices in the wilderness, in all their units,wards and constituencies across the state in general.

“It is rather unfortunate that these fair weather politicians are taking undue advantage of the loss of the PDP at the centre to re-position themselves as APC members so as to curry favour and attract patronage from the APC leadership.

“It is most shameful and disheartening that these key men of the former President and the PDP who ought to remain faithful in the party in this era of sober reflection as a way of demonstrating their appreciation and eternal gratitude to the party for providing the platform for us (minority of minorities) to produce a President which was rare privilege and honour are now busy jumping ships in passion for greener pastures.”

Photo: Mahmud Isa

Rivers Assembly wants court to compel Amaechi to present handover note to Wike

By A’isha Biola Raji with agency report

T

he Rivers State House of Assembly has passed a resolution directing the State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Emmanuel Aguma, to take legal steps to compel the immediate past governor of the state, Rotimi Amaechi, to present his handover note to the Governor Nyesom Wike administration.

Members of the House, who sat on Tuesday, expressed dissatisfaction over Amaechi’s refusal to present a handover note to Wike.

Twenty-eight lawmakers had passed the resolution after the member representing Degema State Constituency, Dr. Farah Dagogo, moved a motion that the former governor should be compelled to make

available his handover note to the current administration.

Dagogo had argued while moving the motion that the Wike administration was in the dark as far as assets and liabilities of the state were concerned as a result of the refusal of the immediate past administration to hand over to his successor.

He said, “Part of our oversight function is to prevent people and institutions from doing the wrong thing. If we fail to do this, we are setting a bad precedence in the state.

“This is why this motion is exigent, considering the fact that the past administration failed to give a handover note.

As it stands now, the current position of the state finances is unknown because the state is in a precarious position.”

Also, the lawmaker representing Asari-Toru

Contituency 1, Mr. Enemi Alabo George, explained that government was a continuum anywhere in the world, adding that Amaechi’s action could set a bad precedence if not tackled immediately.

In his remark, the House Leader, Mr. Martin Amaewhule, cautioned that government business must be conducted in the interest of the state, adding that no one should be seen to be above the law.

Amaewhule told the House that that the state attorney general should be directed to employ all possible means within the law to compel the former governor to present a handover note to the state governor.

However, the Speaker of the House, Mr. Ikuinyi-Owaji Ibani, who spoke on the matter, expressed delight over the motion moved by Dagogo and

added that Rivers remained bigger than any individual.

In another resolution, the House ordered the Permanent Secretary, Director of Finance and Accounts and the Director of Constituency Projects in the Ministry of Works to appear before the House on Thursday to explain how constituency projects in the state were executed from 2012 to 2014.

The Leader of the House, Martin Amaewhule, had moved a motion for a review of the impact of constituency projects from 2012 to 2014 in the state.

A legislator representing Port Harcourt Constituency I, Mr. Jones Ogbonda, disagreed with the motion, arguing that constituency project remains a privilege and not right.

According to Ogbonda, issues concerning constituency projects should not be debated on the floor of the House.

Deny Peterside access to electoral materials, Wike tells tribunal

R

ivers State Governor and candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party in the April 11, 2015 governorship election, Nyesom Wike, has asked the state governorship election petition tribunal sitting in Abuja, to bar the rival All Progressives Congress and its candidate in the election, Dr. Dakuku Peterside, to inspect the electoral materials used for the poll.

Peterside and the APC had on

May 3, 2015, filed their petition before the tribunal challenging Wike’s victory at the poll.

The Independent National Electoral Commission, Wike and the PDP are the respondents to the petition.

The Justice Muazu Pindigaled tribunal had on June 11, 2015 granted an ex parte order permitting the petitioners to personally or through their lawyers or forensic expert inspect

the electoral materials used for the poll.

But, through a motion dated June 16, 2015 filed on his behalf by his lawyer , Emmanuel Ukala (SAN), Wike asked the tribunal to set aside the ex parte order for the inspection of the electoral materials, particularly the voters register and the card reader machines.

He argued that allowing the petitioners to have access to

the card reader machines and the voters register in a manner that would allow them to make copies and store their contents electronically could compromise the secrecy of the ballot.

He added that it could pose security concerns as the materials sought to be inspected by the petitioners contained “highly sensitive security information containing the biometric data of all registered voters in Nigeria.”

PAGE 16

PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESday, JUNE 24, 2015

Politics

Saraki appoints Chief of Staff, Media Adviser

By Ikechukwu Okaforadi

P

L-R: Majority Leader, Plateau state House of Assembly, Hon. Daniel Dem, and Deputy Speaker, Plateau state House of Assembly, Hon. Yusuf Gagdi, during the first session of the 8th Assembly, yesterday in Jos. Photo: NAN

Nigeria can’t afford 36 ministers now – Agbakoba

By Ikechukwu Okaforadi

F

ormer President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Olisa Agbakoba, has declared that Nigeria cannot afford the cost of having 36 ministers selected from across the 36 states of the federation.

Agbakoba, who spoke on the provision in the constitution

that stipulates that the President must choose ministers from each state of the federation and Abuja, stated that Nigeria, with her present economy, cannot afford the luxury of keeping 37 ministers.

To this end, he has called for the appointment of ministers to be on a zonal basis from the sixgeo political zones of the country.

“Yes, I support the idea of having just 19 ministers. Nigeria cannot afford 36 ministers and all we need to do is creatively appoint ministers from a balanced zonal spread and they will have concurrent accreditation to represent absent states,” he said.

It will be recalled that the Ahmed Joda-led Transition Committee has recommended a

small government which entails pruning the number of ministers from 42 to 19.

The committee recommended that Buhari should have only 19 senior ministers, while 17 (junior) ministers of state should be appointed, bringing the total to 36, in line with the constitutional provision of one minister per state.

INEC has many court cases on 2015 elections - Jega

By Ahmed Abubakar with agency report

T

he Independent National Electoral Commission on Monday said it had incurred many court cases after the 2015 general elections because of lack of internal democracy in political parties and last-minute substitution of candidates.

According to the commission, these ugly developments portend threats to credible electoral processes.

The party structure in many West African countries, INEC said, were stronger than what is obtainable in Nigeria.

The commission however challenged political parties to avoid such flaws before the next general elections, scheduled for 2019.

The Chairman of INEC, Prof.

Attahiru Jega, represented by a commissioner, Prof. Mohammed Kuna, expressed this observation in Abuja, at a stakeholders’ conference on 2015 elections, organised by Kuru, Jos-based National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies. It was with the

theme, “Political parties and the 2015 elections: Lessons learnt and way forward.”

It will be recalled that INEC usually battles running court cases before and after general elections as a result of last-minute substitution of candidates.

Jega advised participants at the conference to proffer solutions on how to entrench internal democracy in political parties.

He said, “In the commission, we are worried about internal democracy in political parties. We have seen cases of substitution of candidates after the primaries. It is a serious problem for INEC. We had several cases in 2011 and the same thing happened in 2015.

“I think it is important that we look into it. If you look at political parties across West Africa, the party structure in many countries is better than what we have in Nigeria. We will share our experiences with other participants here in order to deepen democracy.”

Reacting to INEC’s position on the lack of internal democracy in political parties, the Chairman, Inter-Party

Advisory Council, Dr. Tanko Yinusa, called for a total overhauling of the existing Electoral Act. According to him, stakeholders must sit and agree on certain areas of the Electoral Act where improvements and changes are required.

The IPAC chairman said, “We have allowed political parties to be hijacked by individuals. When these individuals take over the structure of the party, they always decide who becomes what. We need to find a mechanism through which political parties will be public-owned institutions. With all due respect, we have improved over time and I believe we can get better.

“The only places where you can find true internal democracy are in the smaller political parties. These small parties are not owned by big men.

The issue of substitution of candidates comes with Electoral Act. The Act gives a lot of rooms for a number of things.

“A case in study is Benue State, where people just jump into political parties and grabs the tickets. INEC does not have the powers to effectively

manage these things. We are calling for a total overhauling of the Electoral Act. Now, we can all sit down and look at areas of improvements.”

The lack of internal democracy and the need to ensure thorough reform of the electoral process, including consideration for independent candidacy and review of the age qualification for presidential aspirants, dominated discourse during a recent media roundtable organised by Transition Monitoring Group.

AccordingtotheTMG,suchreviews and reforms would be necessary as part of measures to consolidate the gains of the 2015 election and pave the way for the general elections that would take place in 2019, even though political godfathers would strongly oppose it.

Speaking at the event, which centred on the Project Quick Count with the theme, “Setting a media agenda for electoral reforms”, the Chairman of Partners for Electoral Reforms, Dr. Ezenwa Nwagwu; Project Manager of TMG, Lazarus Apir, and TMG’s Training Manager, Paul James, were unanimous that the nation’s electoral laws require total reform.

resident of the Senate, Bukola Saraki, has appointed Senator Isa Galaudu, as his Chief of Staff, and Yusuph Adesola Olaniyonu, as Special Adviser on Media.

The appointments were contained in a statement issued yesterday and signed by the Deputy Clerk to the National Assembly, Mr. Benedict Efeturi.

The statement read: “The President of the Senate, Distinguished Senator Abubakar Bukola Saraki has appointed Senator Isa Galaudu as his Chief of Staff and Yusuph Adesola Olaniyonu as his Special Adviser on Media. The appointments take immediate effect.”

Senator Isa Galaudu, who was elected in 2011, served in the 7th senate and represented Kebbi North senatorial district in the upper chamber of the National Assembly.

Also, Yusuph Adesola Olaniyonu, a former Sunday Editor of the Thisday Newspaper, was the immediate past commissioner for Information, Communication and Strategy in Ogun state between 2011 and 2015.

Bayelsa senatorial contest: Ogola floors Lokpobiri

By Ikechukwu Okaforadi with agency report

S

enator Foster Ogola has floored Senator Heineken Lokpobiri in the legal tussle to represent Bayelsa West Senatorial District in the Senate.

In a judgment at the Court of Appeal, Port Harcourt, Justice Shuabi Yakub, in an unanimous ruling, upheld Senator Ogola’s appeal in Appeal No. CA/PH/96/2015.

The judgment has therefore ended Lokpobiri’s bid for a third term at the nation’s upper legislative chamber.

The court therefore struck out Lokpobiri’s suit No. FHC/YNG/ CS/03/2015 pending at the Federal High Court, Yenagoa, for lack of jurisdiction and abuse of court processes. It described the suit as “forum shopping.”

All the five justices in the Appeal court unanimously held that Lokpobiri’s suit ought to have been filed at a High Court and not the Federal High Court in view of the preelection matters contained therein.

The Independent National Electoral Commission had declared the appellant as winner of the Peoples Democratic Party primaries held at the Isaac Jasper Boro College of Education, Sagbama on December 7, 2014.

Ogola had scored 69 votes at the primaries and also emerged victorious in the senatorial election of March 28 in the senatorial district.

Lokpobiri, on the other hand, emerged winner at a parallel primaries conducted also in Sagbama.

PAGE 17

PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESday, JUNE 24, 2015

Politics

Appointment of commissioners: Lalong’s critics are ignorant From Ado Abubakar Musa, Jos

T

he Plateau state governor, Barrister Simon Bako Lalong , has yesterday described as regrettable the people who are ignorant of the democratic process, saying “they are armchair critics”

Lalong was reacting to a national daily publication (the pilot), in which one Mike Dachom ,the organising secretary of the PDP was reported to have said that the none appointment of Commissioners on the Plateau “is a sign of lack of focused leadership

by the APC administration in the state and that the APC Government was starting on a confused note is indeed laughable and ridiculous.”

The Governor made the reaction in a press release yesterday by his Director of Press and Public Affairs, Samuel Emmanuel Nanle.

The release described Mr. Mike Dechom as one of those “lackeys and Political apologists of Governor Jang. It said, “It is regrettable that people who do not understand the workings of democracy can openly brandish their ignorance of the fact that Democracy is Process

R-L: Borno state Governor, Alahji Kashim Shettima, Cross Rivers state Governor, Mr. Ben Ayande, Delta state Governor, Mr. Patrick Okowa, Edo state Governor, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, during President Muhammadu Buhari’s first meeting with 36 states governors, yesterday at the Stat House, yesterday in Abuja.

Photo: Joe Oroye

PDP governors want election tribunals back to states

By Ahmed Abubakar

T

he Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governors have harmonised their position on issues to present before President Muhammadu Buhari in a late Monday night meeting.

The governors are insisting on relocation of the Akwa Ibom, Rivers and Taraba States governorship and House of Assembly election petition tribunals from Abuja to the states.

The governors at their meeting Monday night also ratified Governor Olusegun Mimiko of Ondo State as chairman of the forum.

They described as illegal and

unjustified, the relocation of the states tribunals to Abuja order than the states where the elections were held.

Briefing newsmen at the end of the meeting which lasted from 8:20pm to about 11:19pm, Ebonyi State governor, Dave Umahi, who read a two-point communiqué said 12 out of the 13 governors ratified the election of the Ondo State governor, Dr. Olusegun Mimiko as Chairman of the PDP Governors’ forum.

Some national dailies had reported Monday, that Mimko’s emergence did not go down well with some of the governors and were making moves to stop him considering that he defected

from Labour Party to the PDP just last year.

Twelve governors including Ayodele Fayose of Ekiti State who was reported to had petitioned the National Working Committee (NWC) of the party against Mimiko’s election, were present at the meeting.

The Ondo State governor who later spoke to newsmen said the party “is rebranding and repositioning to provide a responsible and constructive opposition to the ruling party.”

He denied that there was crisis with the ranks of governors elected on the platform of the party.

The PDP Governors’ Forum, had last

week condemned “in very strong terms the relocation of election tribunals in Rivers State, Taraba State and Akwa Ibom State to Abuja.”

The governors present at the Monday meeting were; Governors Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi (Enugu), Darius Isiaku (Taraba), Olusegun Mimiko (Ondo), John Jonah (Bayelsa), Ifeanyi Okowa (Delta), Okezie Ikpeazu (Abia), Ayo Fayose (Ekiti), Idris Wada (Kogi), Nyesom Wike (Rivers), Udo Emmanuel (Akwa Ibom), Dave Umahia (Ebonyi) and Ibrahim Dankwambo (Gombe).

Only Cross River State governor, Professor Ben Ayade was absent at the meeting.

Shema’s ADC received N680m illegally, says Katsina govt From Lawal Sa’idu Funtua, Katsina

K

atsina State Government has asked the state House of Assembly to investigate the illegal release of N680 million allegedly made to the ADC of the immediate past governor of the state, DSP Shehu Muhammad Koko.

The government’s request was contained in a letter from the governor’s office to the State

Assembly, which was yesterday read on the floor of the House.

The government alleged that the said amount of money illegally released to the ADC were for security support by the Association of Local Government of Nigeria, ALGON, Katsina State chapter.

It further noted that during interactive sessions with the officials of ministry for local government and chieftaincy affairs, it was similarly discovered

that questionable payments were made into the ALGON Account.

The government further clarified that the questionable payments include that of JanuaryDecember, 2014 which was N3, 721,577,062.25 and that of January - May which was also N3, 858, 416, 855. 72.

It also stated that after careful questioning of the ministry’s officials and ALGON officials invited it discovered that apart from N765 million worth of drugs

whose documents were tendered no explanation was given for the remaining funds.

It added that while the government was taking measures in respect of the issue, it called on the house to urgently take action on the issue.

Presenting the letter to the house, the speaker, Alhaji Aliyu Sabi’u Muduru said the letter would be distributed to members of the house to study before taking final decision on the matter.

driven and for it to be participatory all critical stake-holders must be carried along.”

Lalong however said the APC has completed the processes leading to the submission of names for the position of commissioners from her participatory and people oriented approach which began from the ward to the local government levels and this awaiting the Governor’s consent before presentation to the House.

“Further to this is the fact that the 8th House of Assembly which was inaugurated on the 10th of June, 2015 has just returned from a one week Legislative Retreat and is settling down to consider the state budget which the last PDP administration in the state, could not pass until her inglorious exit from office,” the release said.

According to the release, the APC Government of Governor Lalong is sure the organizing Secretary is not so disorganized not to have followed events in the state, for which his utterances would have been guided.

It also explained that the People of Plateau State are certainly in tune with the Government of Governor Lalong and they understand the abyss of despair that the PDP have put them in; the light which they see now, with the payments of 3 months arrears of salary, (November, 2014 – January, 2015) out of the 8 months inherited from the PDP Government of former Governor Jang which he said are signs of good things from the present administration.

Gov Yari appoints Chief of Staff From Ibrahim Sidi Muh’d, Gusau

G

overnor Abdul’aziz Yari Abubakar of Zamfara State has approved the appointment of Dahiru Zubairu Nasarawa Mailayi, as the new state Chief of Staff, including three other Special advisers.

The appointments which were approved by the governor since he was sworn-in to run the affairs of the state for second tenure despite high level of agitation among politicians over various positions in the new government.

Honourable Zubairu who was a former member of the House of Representatives from 2007 to 2011 while representing Birnin Magaji – Kaura Namoda federal constituency under PDP, had defected to All Progressive Party (APC) in solidarity to ensure the re-election of Abdul’aziz Yari for his second tenure.

The announcement of the new appointments was contained in a statement by the acting Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Haruna Sallau, said the appointments take with immediate effect.

Other appointees were, Special adviser Protocol matters, Alhaji Sani Garba Gusau, Special advisor, Religious Affairs, Professor Abdullahi Muhammad Shinkafi, and Special advisor, Liaison matters, Alhaji Ahmad Usman Gummi.

PAGE 18

PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESday, JUNE 24, 2015

Politics

APC stakeholders condemn calls for Lasun’s resignation

By Umar Muhammad Puma

A

L-R: Senator representing Kaduna Central, Senator Shehu Sani, Personal Secretary, to the Senator, Hon. Suleiman Ahmed, and Vice-Chairman, NUJ State Correspondents Chapel, Comrade Midat Joseph, during the senator’s media parley with members of correspondents, on Monday in Kaduna.

AL-Makura urges NASS to fastrack passage of disability bill

By Umar Muhammad Puma

G

overnor Umaru Tanko AlMakura of Nasarawa State has urged lawmakers in the National Assembly to speedily pass the disability bill, even as he called for the inclusion of people living with disabilities (PLWDs) in Public policies.

Al-Makura stated this when he delivered a key note address at the first International Conference on Disabilities with theme `Creating an Inclusive Society for All’ at the

civic center in Victoria Island, Lagos.

He said that government and private institutions must evolve a policy to accommodate people living with disabilities in their activities.

He said that it is in the best interest of any country that all her citizens have a fair and equitable opportunity for a better future.

Al - Makura said that public policies must be in tune with present realities and crafted to create enabling environment to

make it easy for the disabled to have free education, tax incentives and social security.

He added that such policies must ensure full participation of PLWDs by respecting their needs and integrating their concerns in the larger fabric of the society.

He explained that public policies must show that all human beings are equal by making it a policy of state to engage the disabled as a community and also eliminate”

the disability line” through vigorous government and civic leadership.

Al - Makura also called for the creation of comprehensive human capital agenda for PLWDs as a key to economic inclusive society.

He said public institutions, places of worship, government agencies and the Media should integrate sign language in their activities while staircase should be provided for the disabled in public places, wheel chairs for those who cannot walk and hearing Aids for hard of hearing.

group, under the aegis of Concerned All Progressives Congress (APC) stakeholders has condemned calls by some faceless individuals calling on the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon Yussuf Suleiman Lasun, to resign.

The group in a release signed by its Publicity Secretary, Abayomi Ayegbokiki, noted that those making the call want to overheat the polity.

According to the statement which was made available to journalists said the election that produced Hon. Lasun as Deputy Speaker was in line with the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

“We make bold to say that apart from the emergence of Hon. Lasun through a democratic, open and transparent election, the process of the election complied with section 50, a and b of the 1999 constitution.

“We warned all those who have allowed themselves to be used for this reprehensible act to allow reason to prevail.

“For the change which our party promised Nigerians to materialize, all hands must be on the deck.

“The least President Mohammadu Buhari expect from genuine APC members at this critical moment is for everybody to be on the same page with him.”

The group also advised the Deputy Speaker to open hands of fellowship to all and ensure that Yoruba interest is protected The Concerned APC Stakeholders however, called on all members of the party in particular and Nigerians in general to give maximum support and cooperation to the President in his task of reforming the country.

NUJ President: Aspirant pledges 37 media centers, NHIS From Yakubu Mustapha, Minna

T

he Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Presidential aspirant at the triennial delegate conference of NUJ scheduled for next month, Comrade Otumba Mike AdeAladenika, has pledged to initiate Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) and create media centers in the 37 councils of the federation.

Aladenika, who made this known while his campaign train arrived Minna yesterday, said the centers will create job opportunity and ease the work of his colleagues as well if elected will encouraged establishment of cooperative societies.

He added that International Institute of Journalism (IIJ) will be empowered and strengthened

for more recognition, while Media Salary Structure will be given priority when elected, but assured to fight quackery in the profession if the leverage to train them failed.

The aspirant noted that activism and lobbying strategies will be used to achieve the targeted objectives with the support and cooperation of the state councils which he said is doable.

He explained that he is an alternative against other five contenders who were all members of CWC calling on members of the delegate to give him there vote assuring to use his connection that will not let the people down.

Dogara unveils 8th House Legislative Agenda, Inaugurates 3 Committees Speaker of the House of

Representatives, Yakubu Dogara yesterday presented for consideration a drafted legislative agenda for the 8th House.

Giving a synopsis of the legislative agenda on the floor of the House, Dogara stated that it was the agenda was not only garnered on experiences of the 7th House but was a way of consolidating on the gains of the previous House.

“This Legislative Agenda takes lessons from the experiences of the 7th House of Representatives and seeks to consolidate the gains and achievements thereof.

The House recognizes that there remains widespread citizens distrust of public institutions and government generally.

“It is also recognized that there is a lot of public misconception

and misperception about the functions and contributions of the legislature to Nigeria’s overall socio-economic and political development.

“The House commits to playing its part in rescuing Nigeria from the clutches of hunger, poverty, disease, social, economic, political and infrastructural quagmire, “the Speaker told his colleagues in plenary.

Contained in the agenda is the legislative NEEDS assessment which the Speaker explained that it will determine judiciously find out the proper cost of running the legislative arm of government to enable it play its constitutionally assigned responsibilities.

Also presented in the legislative agenda is the E - Parliament which the Speaker said, “E-voting will

be used regularly during voting to properly reflect voting records of Members and parliamentary accountability” Other programmes included in the legislative agenda includes; National Assembly Communication, Review of National Budgetary Process, National Economy and Development, Priority Legislation, Anti - Corruption, Constitution Reform Process amongst others.

In another development, the Speaker constituted three ad hoc committees which are Media, to be Chaired by Sani Zoro (Jigawa State, APC), Code of Conduct to be chaired by Aminu Shagari (Sokoto State, APC) and Standing Order to be chaired by Oke Jev. (Benue State, APC).

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PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESday, JUNE 24, 2015

‘We will create products to attract investors – SEC DG’

By A’isha Biola Raji

T

he Director General of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Mr. Mounir Gwarzo, has stated that the Nigerian Capital market is planning to create products that will encourage new investors to invest in the market Gwarzo, in an interview with CNBC Africa, in London, monitored in Abuja said this is also as efforts are being made to bring Pension Funds Administrators (PFAs) on to the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) platform.

This, he said, will make the capital market competitive and

attract more investors that will in turn improved the nation’s economy, just as he added that the commission is also working the possibilities of a unified corporate governance structure.

He said: “We still operate with very few products and one of the things we are doing is to as much as possible engage PenCom to come with guidelines for Pension Funds Administrators (PFAs) who will invest in those funds.

We are aware that PFAs can only invest in an instrument that is secured. We will encourage development of new products in the market”.

He added that “One of the things our 10- year master plan

is talking about is to create new products and we are doing all that is possible in this regard. We will religiously purse the 10 year master plan. It has been done in Malaysia, India, Brazil and they have become success stories.

They have contributed in raising the standard of their capital market. It was done by all the key market operators.

“We are going to implement it religiously. We have started structuring it into different quarters. We have already started implementing it. We have already started what will be in the third and fourth quarters. As we move along we will look at how we have implemented the lower

ones. Then we now graduate into the upper ones”.

In order to make the market more competitive, Gwarzo said the Commission has improved the level of its enforcement mechanism and also come up with a Corporate Governance Scorecard “SEC has its own Corporate Governance Scorecard and also collaborating with NSE so that we can have one unified Corporate Governance Scorecard for the market.

We are also working towards investor protection fund, in other jurisdictions they have investors protection funds NSE has its own and SEC has its own.

“Some of these things are what we have put in place to ensure that there is zero tolerance to infractions in the market. Any operator that crosses the red line will be taken out of the market.

By the time he crosses the green light, he is in the amber line we will raise a flag telling him to do what is right, but once the operator now crosses the red line we will take that operator off” he said..

He added that the Commission is working towards investors’ protection funds which will go a long way at enticing operators in the sector, stressing that it is also operating a zero tolerance policy on infractions in the market

L-R: Commissioner, Engineering Standard and Safety Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), Mrs. Mary Awoolokun, NERC Commissioner, Legal, Licensing and Enforcement, Mr. Steven Andzenge, and NERC Commissioner, Finance and Management, Mr. Patrick Umeh, during the hearing of the petition on alleged unlawful power purchase agreement for the generation and supply of electricity over a 10-year period between A and P Foods Limited and Exusia Power and Gas Limited, yesterday at NERC head office, in Abuja.

Photo: Mahmud Isa

‘FG will ensure completion of new Kano airport terminal on schedule’

T

he federal government has said that barring any unforeseen circumstances, the new terminal under construction at the Aminu Kano international airport in Kano will be completed on schedule.

Permanent secretary in the ministry of aviation, Mrs. Binta Bello during a tour of the facility affirmed that the construction firm, China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) would complete the project on schedule and hand it over in March 2016.

She said regardless of the

apparent slow pace of work on the terminal and other ones in other locations, there is no course to doubt the completion of the projects on schedule.

“The project manager at MAKIA has assured me that he will hand over the job in March 2016.

They will finish it; they have all the materials. If they, who are doing the work, say they will deliver

by March, you have no course to doubt them.

“The only place where we had challenges was Lagos. They had the initial challenge of site. And when they overcame the challenge,

they mobilized to site and work is in progress. At other sites, there have been no problems” She said it is noteworthy that China’s Exim Bank funds the construction of the international terminals located at Lagos, Port Harcourt, Abuja and Kano airports at the total cost of $500 million.

However, just like similar scenario at the Lagos and Port Harcourt airports, local contractors working on different projects at MAKIA had suspended work due to lack of funds.

Whichever project site the

permanent secretary and her entourage visited, only a handful of artisans were seen idling away while their bosses were nowhere to be found.

The company in charge of building the airport’s fire station Patmoz Nigeria Ltd had suspended work on the project saying it had exhausted what it got as mobilization fee. “only my boss has the file containing the agreement”, a junior manager told reporters on inquiry of the contract sum and said the contractor last received payment for the work in October

2014.

Also Jameck West Africa, which is constructing the general aviation terminal, said the project which is about 60 per cent completed had been suspended due to non-availability of funds.

Mrs. Bello assured that the contractors would be mobilized to sites when “there is availability of funds.”

“As soon as we are able to mobilize funds, we will call them back to sites. They said they have not been paid; we will look at it and once funds are available, we will pay them,” she said.

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PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESday, JUNE 24, 2015

Aviation Arik Air introduces new timings, more baggage on Lagos-Johannesburg route

ICAO team lauds Nigeria efforts on communicable diseases Stories from Suleiman Idris, Lagos

A

Arik air craft amid air

A

rik Air said it has introduced new summer timings on the Lagos- Johannesburg route while the baggage allowance on the route has been increased for both Premier and Economy Class passengers.

It said with the new timings which came into effect immediately, the new baggage allowance, Premier and Economy class passengers from Lagos to Johannesburg can carry three pieces of luggage each with

Premier passengers allowed a maximum weight of 32kg per piece and Economy passengers 23kg per piece.

It said “the advantage of the new timings is that it offers better connections from Arik Air’s regional and domestic points to Johannesburg. Abuja and Port Harcourt passengers have multiple daily connection options via Lagos to and from Johannesburg.”

A statement from the airline

explained that the new timings offer Dakar; Banjul and Luanda passengers same day connections in both directions while passengers travelling to Cotonou and Douala via Lagos have same day connection off inbound Johannesburg flight.

The domestic and regional South African markets are also benefiting from the new timings as they can now connect same day to the Johannesburg-Lagos service. The statement said.

team of health experts from the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) and the World Health Organisation (WHO) has commended the efforts of agencies in the country’s aviation sector in tackling deadly communicable diseases at the airports and other entry points into Nigeria.

The team which is from the global aviation body’s Collaborative Arrangement for the Prevention and Management of Public Health Events in Civil Aviation (CAPSCA arrived Lagos for the two days visit and inspection of the country’s preparedness in responding to health emergencies.

Head of Implementation Planning and Support-Safety Section, Air Navigation Bureau and CAPSCA Programme Global Coordinator, Mr. Micheil Vredeenburgh at a meeting with relevant agencies and stakeholders in Lagos applauded Nigeria efforts in against such the diseases.

Speaking at the training session for health officials in the aviation industry, he noted that Nigeria performed very well during the outbreak of the deadly Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) adding the nation extended similar gesture to it West Africa neighbours o ensure public safety at the various airports across the sub region.

He affirmed that the team’s visit is geared towards assessing Nigeria’s preparedness for future eventualities and also to educate its health service providers on the latest efforts put in place around the world by the global industry regulator.

“This programme is to implement the international

health regulations as well as the ICAO standard and recommended practices which are related to public health emergences in the aviation sector” “This visit to Nigeria is part of the ICAO dogged show, Ebola aviation action plan and it is actually funded by the United Nations development programme under the global Ebola response muti-partner trust fund”.

Vredeenburgh told the gathering.

Also, Representative of World Health Organisation, Dr. Harry Okpata said the the visit by WHO and CAPSCA was to assist the country to overcome the challenges in implementation of ICAO-WHO regulations.

He explained that WHO places important in the implementation of public health both in the aviation sector and the nation at large.

He said “International health has improved since CAPSCA started in 2007. We have made a lot of progress since then and we are happy seeing the implementation of public health across the world” Director General , Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority, Captain Usman Muktar said the previous assistant visit which were held in 2009 and 2011 visit helped greatly in the containment of the Ebola virus that broke out in 2014.

He pointed that the assistant visits have helped in preventing the spread of communicable diseases at the nation’s airport adding that their visit will go a long way in entrenching a positive and enduring culture in Nigeria aviation sector and globally in curbing spread of communicable diseases in air travel.

He further thanked the team for its cooperative efforts and assured of adherence by all other agencies in the sector.

CAN president commends Dana Passengers urge speedy work on Benin airport Group, others for support to Osun He said “l collect the goods operations during the period of assengers who hitherto flies into Benin airport which arrives from Europe and the closure of the airport. workers The agency advised that but has to resort to travel now transport them by road,

T

he president of the Osun state chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Reverend Elisha Ogundiya, has commended Dana Group and other well meaning Nigerians for coming to the aid of Osun workers.

The CAN president made the commendation following the gesture of goodwill by Dana Group of companies that donated bags of rice, drugs and portable water to support civil servants in the state even as they expect the payment of accumulated salaries.

“We are happy that Dana Group just like other individuals and corporate organizations responded swiftly to our call in our time of distress. The gesture is indeed a clear indication that

Nigerians feel the plight of the Osun workers and further reinforces our unity as a nation and our collective resolve to always render a hand of fellowship to one another”, said Reverend Ogundiya.

While assuring that CAN will work closely with the state chapter of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) to ensure that all items are distributed in an equitable manner, the cleric called on the government at all tiers to come together to quickly resolve the issues that have overburdened the workers.

It will be recalled that Rev. Ogundiya had recently called on corporate bodies and other well meaning Nigerians to rally round to offer succor to the civil servants.

P

by road has urged the Federal Airports Authority Nigeria (FAAN) to accelerate repair works currently been carried out on the airport runway.

A group of travelling regular flyers who now take to buses at the Iyana Ipaja area of Lagos told our correspondent that the closure of the airport also affects businesses they carry out in the Edo state capital and its environs.

A passenger, Ewosor Alimikhena said he has to transport his goods weekly by road with the attendant dangers to Benin explaining that his clients daily express fear over the safety of the goods while in transit.

my business partners and client are uncomfortable with the arrangement because of the safety of the goods. But l have to explain that there is no alternative for now.”

FAAN had informed members of the public, airline operators, passengers and other airport users, that the Benin Airport will be closed to flight operations from Saturday, June 20 to Friday, July 10, 2015to facilitate rehabilitation work on the airport’s runway.

A Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) was issued to all operators of scheduled and non scheduled flights to the airport, to enable them make alternative arrangements for their flight

Asaba Airport and the Osubi airstrip in Warri could be used as alternates to the Benin airport.

“The runway rehabilitation work is part of a routine maintenance programme designed by the authority to ensure that airport runways and other ancillary facilities do not fall below standards recommended by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).” The notice read in part.

FAAN however said it regrets any inconvenience the closure of the airport for this period will cause airline operators, airline passengers and other users of the airport.

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PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESday, JUNE 24, 2015

Pension/Insurance NIA NIID now covers 3 million vehicles

Stories from Ngozi Onyeakusi, Lagos

T

he Director-General, Nigerian Insurers Association (NIA), Mr Sunday Thomas, has said that Nigerian Insurance Industry Database (NIID) has so far covered three million vehicles within the country.

The project which was introduced five years ago, he said has achieved a significant progress as it presently covered three million vehicles compared to one million in the previous year.

According to him the NIA is poised to ensure that fake insurance policies are wiped out

total in the country, adding that association will not rest until this is achieved.

He opined that at of 11.5million vehicles plying Nigerian roads only 3million of these vehicles have a genuine motor insurance cover, while 75 percent of these vehicles do not have verifiable insurance papers.

He assured that association is working with relevant security agents, such as the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC); Vehicle Inspection Officers (VIOs) and State governments to ensure that road users have genuine

insurance papers.

He also disclosed that with a successful deployment of the motor module the association has fully commenced marine platform to keep fake certificates out of marine business.

To ensure the success of the marine module, he said that the association is collaborating with the stakeholders in the marine sector state and federal government to achieve it plan goals of the marine module.

The NIA DG added that the association had deployed over 25 gadgets to VIOs in Ogun State

to verify vehicles in the state, thus, increasing the patronage of genuine motor insurance policy and is about launching the project in Abuja, Akwa Ibom, and Lagos.

While Kwara State government had also been approached to key into this initiative.

On the performance of the project since it was introduced, Thomas said the success achieved so far from the first module had led to the proposed implementation of the second module in marine business.

It would be recalled that NIID was introduced into the Nigerian Insurance Industry in 2011 and till date has uploaded about 300,000 policies.

NIID is electronic platform designed by the NIA to store data of insured vehicles, aid verification of genuine policies and curb the menace of fake insurance certificates.

With the NIID, a motorist can send SMS to 33125 with policy number or vehicle plate number or visit the NIID website to verify genuineness of his or her vehicle insurance papers.

Regency Insurance Profit before tax dips 37.6%

N

igeria’s Regency Alliance Insurance Plc has incurred a drop to the tune of 37.6 percent in its profit before tax in its audited result for the financial year ended 31st December, 2014.

According to company’s filing with the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE).

Profit before dropped from N810.2 million recorded in same period of 2013 to N505.3 million in 2014, this indicating a drop of 37.6 percent.

Consequently, profit after tax (PAT) came down to N439.1 million from N473.3 million in the 2013; this representing a drop of 7.2 percent Nevertheless, gross premium income increased 17.02 percent, to N4.084 billion 2014 when compared with N3.490 billion achieved in 2013 The firm in the first quarter of 2015 recorded still a drop in premium written from N1 billion in 2014 to N820 million in the period under review while profit after tax declined to N159 million from 2014 figure of N275.2 million .

Regency Alliance Insurance Plc last week announced that following the resignation of Hon. Justice Karibi-Whyte as a director and Chairman of the Board of the Company, the Board at its meeting held on 5 March 2015 has appointed Chief Bayo Adejumo as the Acting Chairman.

L-R: General Manager, Trade and Investment, Odua Group, Mrs. Yinka Tunji-Olawale, Group Managing Director (GMD) Odua Group, Mr. Adewale Raji and Company Secretary, Mrs. Abiola Ajayi, during a news conference on first anniversary of the GMD, yesterday in Ibadan.

Photo: NAN

Staco Insurance grows by 3.46%

S

taco Insurance Plc has recorded a 3.46 percent surge in its gross premium for the financial year ended 31st December, 2014.

The company’s gross premium equally increased from N5.674 billion in 2013 end to N5.963 billion recorded in the review period of 2014.

However its pretax profit for the year ended December 31, 2014 dropped to N137.68 million from N570.01 million recorded a year earlier, this

sowing a decline of 76 percent.

Profit after tax (PAT) also declined to N95.98 million from N481.33 million reported in the same period of 2013, this indicating a drop of 80.06 percent.

Commenting on the performance, the Managing Director, Sakiru Oyefeso, said the firm was one of the insurance companies that submitted their 2014 International Financial Reporting Standards accounts to NAICOM and got approval

before the deadline of June 30 given to insurance companies as stipulated in the Insurance Act 2003.

“As Section 26(1) of the Insurance Act 2003 stipulates, every insurer shall not later than 30th June of each year submit to NAICOM, a balance sheet duly audited showing the financial position of the insurer and its subsidiaries at the close of the preceding year together with a copy of the relevant profit and loss account, which the insurer

is to present to its shareholders at its annual general meeting,” it stated.

Oyefeso said that the company would always comply with the provisions of the law and that it achieved impressive results.

He added that the company successfully overcame the challenge of solvency margin during the year as this stood at N4. 57bn in 2014, compared to the previous year 2013 when the solvency margin was N1. 03bn.

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PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESday, JUNE 24, 2015

Business Analysis

By Etuka Sunday

R

egulators, investors, patrons and all stakeholders can now heave a sigh as the long sought legislative backing of the telecoms sector has been achieved.

Part of the laws literally rushed through the outgone National Assembly, was the Cybercrime Prohibition and Prevention Act. It was in like manner, quickly appended by former President Goodluck Jonathan before leaving office on May 29, 2015.

The new law signed on May 15, 2015, stipulates that henceforth, any crime or damage to critical national information infrastructure, sale of preregistered sim cards, unlawful access to computer systems, cyberterrorism, among others, would be punishable. Beyond, this, it is important to note that the law is a harmonisation of several bills submitted to the National Assembly including the Critical Infrastructure Bill, the Cybercrime Prevention Bill amongst others.

The essence of the law includes to provide an effective and unified legal, regulatory and institutional framework for the prohibition, prevention, detection, prosecution and punishment of cybercrimes in Nigeria; ensure the protection of critical national information infrastructure and promote cyber security and the protection of computer systems and networks of electronic communications, data and computer programmes, intellectual property and privacy rights.

Following increased crime related issues such as physical attacks and stealing or vandalisation of telecoms facilities and base stations, stakeholders in the ICT sector began to seek ways to secure legislation for the protection of telecoms infrastructure and to confer on them protection as critical infrastructure. There were also issues such as the rampant and random sale of pre-registered sim cards, hacking of e-mail accounts and stealing of identities of online surfers, amongst many other crimes.

Telecom facilities have since become fundamental and the most preponderant infrastructure in the country next to electricity installations. Therefore, it became worrisome that without protection from the law, operators might be compelled to slow down on investments if there are constant threats to infrastructure both from cyber criminals and vandals who cart away cables, diesel, generators and other hard ware.

The Cybercrime Act lists offenses and penalties including unlawful access to computers, unlawful operation of cyber cafes, system interference, intercepting electronic messages, emails, e-money transfer, tampering with critical infrastructure, and computer-related forgery, among others, as offenses that are punishable under the law. Theft of electronic devices, electronic signature, child pornography and related offences, racism and xenophobic offences are also punishable under the new law.

The provisions of the law

Appreciating the Cybercrimes Act in Nigeria

shall apply throughout the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and implemented to the letter.

Accordingly, any person who, with intent commits any offense punishable under the law against any critical national information infrastructure designated under Section 3 of the Act, is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term of not more than 10 years without the option of fine.

Where the offense committed under subsection (1) of the section results in grievous bodily harm to any person, the offender is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term of not more than 15 years without option of fine.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;

Where the offense committed under subsection (1) of this section results in the death of a person, the offender is liable on conviction to life imprisonment.

A person who, without authorization, intentionally access in whole or in part a computer system or network for fraudulent purposes and obtains data that are vital to national security, commits an offense and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term of not more than five years or a fine of not more than N5 million or both.

A person who perpetrates electronic or online fraud using a cyber cafĂŠ, commits an offence

and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term of three years or a fine of N1 million or both.

Again, any person, who intentionally and without authorisation, intercepts by technical means, non-public transmission of computer data, content, or traffic data, including electromagnetic emissions or signals from a computer, computer system, or network carrying or emitting signals, to or from a computer, computer system or connected system or network, commits an offence and is liable on conviction to a term of imprisonment of not more than

A person who, without authorization, intentionally access in whole or in part a computer system or network for fraudulent purposes and obtains data that are vital to national security, commits an offense . . .

two years or a fine of not more than N5 million or both.

It is also encouraging to learn that lawmakers had carried out a research on the validity of the bill following which they realised the need to create Cyber Security Commission and Cyber Security Council that would oversee the implementation of the bill after it is passed into law. One, however, hopes this proposition will not bring about a duplication of duties or a conflict of interest with the Nigerian Communications Commission.

Nigerians, especially stakeholders in the ICT sector may now rejoice that there is a legal provision that enables the judiciary to prosecute fraudsters and all those involved in online related crimes, a trend that has become globally identified with Nigeria.

It is to the credit of the National Assembly and the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) that the protracted battle to give legal protection to ICT facilities as well as ICT users has finally come to pass.

One hopes this major step will boost the confidence of investors and bring in the much needed foreign investments and growth to the sector.

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PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESday, JUNE 24, 2015

Stock Watch:

Tuesday, June 23, 2015

Have IsraelUS relations reached a new low?

I

n part, it is due to the lack of chemistry between the Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, and the US President, Barack Obama. But there are issues of substance too.

Their difficult relationship was hardly improved by Mr Netanyahu’s decision, during Israel’s recent general election campaign, to accept an invitation from the Republican Party leadership to give a joint address to Congress.

The Israeli prime minister used this as an opportunity to lobby against the nuclear deal that Mr Obama is seeking to negotiate with Tehran.

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Peoples Daily, Wednesday, June 24, 2015

PAGE 24

These are turbulent times for the relationship between Israel and its closest ally, the US.

Then there is also the moribund peace process between Israel and the Palestinians.

Earlier this month, President Obama gave a revealing interview to Israel’s Channel 2 television station.

It was an opportunity to speak directly to the Israeli public; to try to convince them of his fundamental support for the Jewish state. But he injected a warning note too.

He argued that if the current

“status-quo” between Israel and the Palestinians were not resolved, then demographics and the frustration of the Palestinians would force Israel into a choice “about the nature of the Israeli state and its character”.

There was a risk, he said, of Israel losing its “essential values”.

And he went further, warning that there could be more immediate diplomatic consequences too.

George W Bush had a warm relationship with his Israeli counterparts

If there were no progress towards peace, Mr Obama said, there would be an impact upon “how we approach defending Israel on the international stage round the Palestinian issue”.

He then followed up with strong hints that the US might not necessarily obstruct any European effort to bring a resolution on the Palestinian problem to the UN Security Council.

Rift ‘created’

Special Report

Obama posing with Netanyahu

So how bad have relations between the two allies become?

Aaron David Miller, a former US Middle East negotiator, now at the Wilson Centre in Washington DC, told me that Mr Netanyahu’s speech to Congress had “created a rift and opened up the field for a degree of criticism of Israel that, frankly, I have not witnessed before in 20-plus years of working for half a dozen secretaries of state”.

He added: “I have never seen it play out the way it has, and that I think is quite damaging.”

JJ Goldberg, a senior columnist with the Forward and one of the most astute commentators on issues relating to Israel and the US Jewish Community, told me: “It is hard to overstate the depth of suspicion toward the Obama administration within

The Gaza unrest has strained diplomatic tensions

Israeli government circles and among Israel’s closest allies in the US. “The suspicion and hostility have had an impact over time, leaving the administration and its supporters disappointed, frustrated and insulted at the level of contempt directed at them from Israel.”

However, he added: “It doesn’t seem to have shaken the underlying feelings of sympathy among governing and leadership circles here toward Israel as a nation and a symbol.”

This is what Prof Shai Feldman, director of the Crown Centre for Middle Eastern Studies, at Brandeis University, calls the “schizophrenia” in US policy towards Israel, and he explains it this way.

He told me: “The continued and significant military support for Israel, despite sharp

Mr Netanyahu’s decision to address Congress ruffled feathers

disagreements between the two principals, results from the fact that while President Obama’s understanding and interpretation of Israel’s best interests differs sharply from Netanyahu’s, the president is genuinely committed to Israel security and survival, and, in that, he reflects the broader support for Israel in American public opinion, in key constituencies, and in the US Congress.”

Different directions So what went wrong?

Mr Goldberg said: “The most important fact is that after eight years of George W Bush, with his deeply conservative and essentially Manichaean outlook - an outlook that comforts Israelis’ sense of isolation - the two countries simultaneously changed governments in radically different directions.

“Israel lurched far to the right under Netanyahu, and America lurched to the left under Obama.”

But there has been another significant shift too. In the process, Israel has, to an extent, become a party political issue in Washington.

Prof Feldman said: “The sharp contrast between the tense relationship between Netanyahu and Obama and the Israeli [prime minister’s] close relationship with the Republican leadership in the US Congress has contributed to making Israel, for the first time, a partisan issue - a very dangerous development for the future of Israel’s ‘special relations with the US’.”

Mr Goldberg agrees.

He said: “On the right, support for Israel has become a symbolic banner and a political litmus test in a way that Israel never was in America before.

“It’s often the second or third

thing out of any Republican’s mouth after low taxes and abortion, and sometimes even ahead of abortion.

“The left side ranges from troubled support for Israel to open hostility.”

It is not just the political class that is divided by Israel.

Prof Feldman said: “The continued ascendance of the right in Israel presents a growing challenge to the American Jewish community.

“It is important to remember that in contrast to some or even many of the politically active members of the community, most American Jews remain liberal.

“Even after the sharp clashes between President Obama and Prime Minister Netanyahu during Obama’s first term, some 70% of American Jews voted for Obama’s re-election in 2012.

“This is why Israel becoming a partisan issue is so dangerous: the reaction of the liberal Jewish

community to Republican leaders increasingly appearing to ‘own’ the Israel issue places the community’s relations with Israel in uncharted waters.”

US Jewish vote: 2012: Obama (Democrat) 69% of Jewish vote, Romney (Republican) 30% 2008: Obama (Democrat) 78%, McCain (Republican) 22% 2004: Kerry (Democrat) 76%, George W Bush (Republican) 24% 2000: Gore (Democrat) 79%, George W Bush (Republican) 19% 1996: Clinton (Democrat) 78%, Dole (Republican) 16% 1992: Clinton (Democrat) 80%, George Bush Sr (Republican) 11% Bumpy road ahead Mr Miller said Mr Netanyahu and Mr Obama were now seeking to take a break from what he called “the Barack-Bibi wars”, not least because the president’s focus now was on

John Kerry and Barack Obama may push for peace between Israel and the Palestinians

the emerging nuclear deal with Iran.

However, he said there could still be an even more bumpy road ahead, since there could be one last US push on the peace front.

“I think the Obama Administration will do something,” he told me.

“I think it is in their DNA. Both Secretary of State Kerry and the president himself will want to leave something behind.

“That’s why the next 20 months could be very difficult in terms of the relationship between the prime minister and president.”

Nobody should be in any doubt, he said, about the abiding nature of the security relationship between Israel and the US. “I think the US-Israeli security piece of this - I won’t say it’s untouchable - but it exists in a compartment, which under the circumstances that exist in the region today, is going to be secure,” he said.

“The US-Israel relationship really is too big to fail. Under the next president - whether it is a second Clinton or a third Bush things are likely to improve, but the US-Israeli relationship has entered a new phase.”

Mr Goldberg agreed that the bedrock of the US-Israel relationship remained stable.

“The dispute over specific diplomatic policy issues is to a degree superficial and doesn’t touch the deeper relationships in intelligence and defence, technology, finance, cultural exchange and more,” he said.

However, he added: “If Israel continues pursuing a policy in the West Bank that puts it at odds with the rest of the world, eventually America will probably no longer be able to stand alone with Israel against the world.”

Source: BBC

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PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESday, JUNE 24, 2015

Property

Expert advises estate developers to comply with EIA law

By Mashe Umaru Gwamna

D

irector, Environmental Assessment Department in the Federal Ministry of Environment, Mr .John Alonge, has advised estate developers to comply with the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Act before embarking on projects to prevent environmental disasters.

Mr Alonge said the level of compliance with EIA law among

estate developers was low compared to the oil and gas and telecommunications sectors. “there are a lot of estate developer violators; there are some who comply and there are some who do not.

“When you look at the estate developers, they hide under FCT; before you know it, they have started their projects.’’

M e anwh ile, the Dire ctor reiterates that the ministry has started granting abridged EIA to

telecommunications firms to fast track the process in the country taking cognisance of the nature of their projects.

“The basic things we look at in issuing EIA to them are the land intake, project location, the height of the mast and closeness of the mast to infrastructure and other geological considerations.

“There is always a standard setback that has been approved for EIA before the construction of any project.

“We carry out compliance monitoring to see the level of compliance with the standard after the construction must have been carried out,’’ he said.

The expert explained that the standard 10 metres setback had conditions attached to it and so was the case with seven metres setback.

He said that if the standard could not be met due to improper design, then it would be reviewed based on the importance of the project. ``There is a joint committee

that reviews that kind of situation.

People need this technology and at the end of the day, you can get the right standard. “ We (the ministry and regulators) have signed Memorandum of Understanding now that if you cannot meet the standard, we can determine what it is supposed to be the setback.’’

The Director, therefore, urged contractors of major projects to comply with EIA before executing any project

A typical Nigeria high rising

Land grabbers hit wild life park in Benin

From Osaigbovo Iguobaro, Benin

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gba Zoological Garden and Natural Park in Edo State has been ravaged by land grabbers, thereby putting the lives of animals at the park at Utagban and Ogbaneki host communities under threat.

The Management of the park led by Chief Executive of the Zoo,

Mr. Andy Enahire in an open letter addressed to Governor Adams Oshiomhole, called for a coalition of the willing to rescue the sanctuary from further encroachment.

He decried the management’s challenges in adequately carrying out its mandate, which according to him has placed their personal safety and investments as ecotourism developers under “very dangerous risks.”

Ehanire w ho s pe cifically recalled an incursion into the zoo on June 18, 2015, regretted how “large tracts of pristine conservation project of State, with high international acclaimed were decimated with bulldozers.”

According to him, the speculators afterwards put up the zoo’s land for sale to unsuspecting members of the public; with fresh survey beacons. “In the current

circumstances, we want to again appeal for government protection of this priceless zoo forestry which is the very last vestige of the once 53 Sq. Km. Ogba Forest Reserve.

“The massive investment on the Zoo’s infrastructure by the State government could become a colossal waste if the encroachment problem persists,” he added.

Continuing, Ehanire urged the governor to cause a full scale

formal inquiry into the repeated destructive incursions to the Zoo which he said has “led to serious loss of its ecological integrity.”

He further appealed to the governor to cause the Ministry of Lands and Surveys to urgently carry out a fresh survey of zoo along with clear delineation of its boundaries and provide for full-time forest guard and security protection to the facilities.

PAGE 27

PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESday, JUNE 24, 2015

Property

Dry construction method can reduce housing deficit —Developers

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n order to addressed the embattled housing issues.

Real estate developers said dry construction method of building can reduce the housing deficit in the country.

Managing Director, UACN Property Development Company Limited, Mr. Hakeem Ogunniran,

said the built environment is plagued by three fundamental issues of land titling, funding and construction methodology.

“Most of us still construct in the traditional way and it will be impossible to meet the housing gap if we continue to build in the traditional way,” he said.

Ogunniran and others developers, who spoke at the unveiling of Nigerite Limited’s Kalsi, a dry construction system, said the building solution would help in the provision of affordable houses in the country.

Similarly, the President, African Union of Architects,

Mr. Tokunbo Omisore, said the idea would facilitate in reducing poverty by providing solutions to housing problems.

The Managing Director, Nigerite Limited, Mr. Frank LeBris, emphasised that the company owed the country a duty to champion economic and

Property of the Week

technological innovations that it had experienced in the developed world through the network of its parent company, Etex.

He added, “We have carefully observed our environment and come to the conclusion that we do not have to wait for tomorrow to bring this avant-garde technology to Nigeria. Even though, the introduction of this technology has caused us a lot of money in terms of investment in new factory lines and equipment as well as additional personnel, we believe that this is just one of the few things we can do to contribute to the economic and technological upgrade of Nigeria.

LeBris affirmed that the system was developed to augment the efforts to cover up the housing deficit in the country.

“It is common knowledge that housing deficit in Nigeria today is close to 20 million; this solution is being introduced as one of the fastest means of bridging this gap since it takes pretty few number of days to construct from start to finish. It ensures cleaner environment at construction sites and thus points to our avowed commitment to environment friendliness and it costs less in the final analysis,” he said.

Managing Director reiterates that whiles the system was not a replacement for the traditional method of brick and mortar, it was cheaper and a quicker means of constructing a building.

Also, according to the Marketing Manager, Africa, Etex Group, Mr. Juan Lugo, the system is a response to the call for energy efficiency in building construction as well as a fast growing technology all over the world.

The Head, Dry Construction Business Unit, Nigerite, Mr. Adewale Ogungbe, said the system had high impact and fire resistant.

“Whatever an architect conceives in terms of design, Kalsi can achieve,” he said.

According to Ogungbe, Kalsi boards are manufactured from cement, quartz, cellulose, natural calcium silicate and water, and processed under high pressure and temperature for durability and dimensional.

How to avoid getting scammed when buying property

B

uying property is no doubt a worthwhile investment but just like any other business, property buying has its own inherent risks.

Falling prey to scams is one of the risks property buyers face and this has led to a lot of buyers losing their hard earned money in the process.

The following tips should help a buyer avoid property scammers: Verify Before Payment

Some scammers operate by posing as genuine property owners and selling property they have no right over. In order to avoid falling prey to property scammers, ensure that proper verification is carried out on the property and the seller (or agent) before making payments.

Always have a lawyer present during all property transactions for proper verification of all property documents at the a ppr o pr i a t e q uarte rs . Make sure the real estate agency you

are dealing with is properly registered under the Corporate Affairs Commission and the relevant real estate regulatory agencies. This verification process might be a bit tasking but it pays off eventually as it helps to avoid endless legal tussles and loss of money.

Get Help he waters of the real estate market could be murky sometimes and you definitely need the help of experts to guide you

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through.

Real estate professionals have invaluable experience in purchase transactions and their advice can help a buyer avoid falling prey to scammers. Employ the services of a real estate lawyer to help verify all title documents and ensure that your best interests are represented.

Avoid Paying in Cash hen paying for property; avoid using cash payments as they are difficult

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to tra ck . M a k e u se of b a n k transfers and post-dated cheques instead. This makes the payment easier to track in case things go awry.

I

Be Cautious t is always advisable to be extra careful when buying property. Trust your instincts and if anything seems fishy, avoid it.

Source: privateproperty. com.ng

Motoring

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PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESday, JUNE 24, 2015

Hyundai Elantra still looks fresh

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he 2016 Hyundai Elantra still looks fresh compared to other small sedans, and that’s quite an achievement for the segment’s elder statesman. But the fact remains that the currentgeneration Elantra debuted way back in 2011, and it exceeds all other major players for length of tenure. A savvy consumer might wonder whether the Elantra can continue to compete against its relatively youthful rivals or whether this head-turning Hyundai is finally past its sellby date.

Judged purely on its value proposition, the Elantra has hardly aged a day.

Hyundai a l w a y s seems to throw in more features than you’d expect, and that trend continues for 2016 with the attractively priced Value Edition. Stuffed with desirable add-ons like alloy wheels, a sunroof and keyless entry and ignition, this new trim level may make you question the point of the pricier Limited and Sport.

But those trims come with even more accoutrements should you want them, and the Limited and Sport are priced lower than the premium versions of many competitors.

If you’re looking for signs of age, then, you won’t find them on the equipment list. That means you’ll have to get to know this Hyundai a little better. Driven back to back against its rivals, the Elantra impresses with its quiet cabin, but its suspension struggles to absorb major impacts so it doesn’t ride as smoothly as some other small sedans. The popular

1.8-liter engine, meanwhile, can struggle a bit when climbing hills or dealing with a full roster of passengers. Opting for the Sport with its stronger 2.0-liter engine could be wise, but you’ll lose some fuel efficiency in the process.

Those may seem like minor quibbles, but if you sample the Mazda 3, for example, you’re bound to

notice its relatively zesty performance and refined ride, with no fuel economy compromise. Same goes for the Ford Focus, although, like the Hyundai, it’s getting on in years.

You’ve also got the affordable Kia Forte and the well-rounded Honda Civic to consider, while the Volkswagen Jetta offers diesel engine frugality in a slightly larger package. But the 2016 Hyundai Elantra can still hold its head high in this distinguished company, and that says a lot about its fundamental goodness.

The 2016 Hyundai Elantra sedan comes in four trim levels: SE, Value Edition, Limited and Sport.

Standard SE features include 15-inch steel wheels, full power accessories, intermittent wipers, air-conditioning, cruise control, a trip computer, a tilt-andtelescoping steering wheel, a height-adjustable driver seat, 60/40-split folding rear

seatbacks and a six-speaker sound system with a CD player, satellite radio and a USB port.

A Popular Equipment package is optional on SE, though only if you spring for the automatic transmission. It adds 16-inch alloy wheels, automatic headlights, foglights, heated mirrors, a driver blind-spot

mirror, extendable sun visors with illuminated vanity mirrors, steering-wheel-mounted audio controls, a sliding center armrest, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, voice controls, a 4.3-inch touchscreen display and a rearview camera.

The Value Edition starts with all of those items and adds a sunroof, keyless entry and ignition, heated front seats and a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob.

The Limited loses the sunroof, but it adds 17-inch wheels, projector headlights with LED accents, LED taillights, adjustable steering effort, a six-way power driver seat (with power lumbar), leather upholstery, dual-zone automatic climate control, heated rear seats and Blue Link telematics.

Optional on Limited is the Ultimate package, which adds

the sunroof back and throws in a 7-inch touchscreen display, a navigation system and an upgraded audio system.

Finally, the Sport does without leather upholstery, automatic climate control, heated rear seats and Blue Link but otherwise includes most of the Limited’s standard equipment, substituting black exterior accents, a sporttuned suspension and steering system and a more

powerful engine (with an available manual transmission).

The Sport’s optional Tech package (automatic transmission required) is similar to the Limited’s Ultimate package, also adding Blue Link.

The 2016 Hyundai Elantra SE, Value Edition and Limited are powered by a 1.8-liter fourcylinder engine that produces 145 horsepower and 130 pound-feet of torque. A sixspeed manual transmission is standard on the SE, while a six-speed automatic is optional there and standard on the Value Edition and Limited. During Edmunds testing, an Elantra Limited sauntered to 60 mph in 9.7 seconds, which is about a second slower than average for the segment.

The EPA pegs fuel economy at 31 mpg combined (27 city/37 highway) for the manualequipped SE and an identical 31 mpg combined for the automatic-equipped Limited.

The other trims return 32 mpg combined (28/38) with the automatic transmission. These are solid numbers, though some rivals offer special, fueleconomy-themed models that are even more frugal.

As for the Elantra Sport, it boasts a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that’s good for 173 hp and 154 lb-ft of torque. The manual transmission is standard and the automatic is optional. At our test track, an Elantra Sport with the automatic zipped to 60 mph in 8.2 seconds, which puts it on the quicker side of the compact sedan spectrum.

EPA fuel economy estimates for the Sport stand at 28 mpg combined (24 city/34 highway) with the manual and a similar 28 mpg combined (24 city/35 highway) with the automatic.

Source: Edmunds.com

Page 29

PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESday, JUNE 24, 2015

Arts & Culture

True historical stories inspire Carnegie and Greenaway winners

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eal-life historical adventures have inspired both winners of this years CILIP Carnegie & Kate Greenaway medals.

Tanya Landman’s Buffalo Soldier won the Carnegie medal and was influenced by the true story of former slave Cathy Williams, who enlisted as a man in the US army.

Debut author William Grill won the Kate Greenaway Medal for his illustrated book Shackleton’s Journey.

At 25 he is the youngest winner of the medal since 1960.

The prizes are each awarded annually to a book for young people.

Agnes Guyon, chair of this year’s judging panel, said: “These books push boundaries, from Charley O’Hara’s often harrowing experiences in Buffalo Soldier, to the brutal landscapes and innovative colours of Shackleton’s Journey.

“They do not shy from difficult topics but are ultimately lifeaffirming in the view they offer of the human spirit’s will to survive and succeed.”

The winners receive £500 worth of books to donate to their local library.

Grill, as winner of the CILIP

Kate Greenaway Medal, is also awarded the £5,000 Colin Mears Award cash prize.

He beat the newly crowned Children’s Laureate, Chris Riddell, to the title.

Landman used her winner’s speech to call for schools and libraries to be given the support they need to help children unleash their imaginations.

She said: “I’ve watched teachers tied in straitjackets by the demands of the national curriculum and Ofsted, and students imprisoned in boxes that need to be ticked.

“At a time when China is looking for ways to teach their children to create and innovate, we seem to be heading in the opposite direction. Our system is in danger of squeezing every scrap of imagination out of our children.”

Landman has written many books for children and young people, including the Sam Swann series, and her novel Apache was nominated for the 2008 Carnegie Medal.

Grill in his speech spoke of how illustrated novels can encourage those with reading difficulties to enjoy reading as they “can also be more accessible for those who struggle with reading, as dyslexics

like myself have”.

“I am thrilled that my book has been so positively received by schools which have seen that children learn very effectively through storytelling.

“In Shackleton’s case, they can see that he and his crew proved that just because you fail it doesn’t make you a failure. In Shackleton’s own words, ‘the only true failure would be to not explore at all”.

In 2014 Grill won the Association of Illustration Award for New Talent and his book Shackleton’s Journey was also a winner of The New York Times Best Illustrated Books.

Previous Carnegie winners include CS Lewis and Arthur Ransome, while celebrated illustrators Quentin Blake and Shirley Hughes are both winners of the Greenaway.

The Carnegie Medal was established in 1936 in memory of the Scottish-born philanthropist Andrew Carnegie with the Kate Greenaway Medal following 19 years later, named after the popular 19th-Century artist.

The medals are judged solely by librarians across the UK and past winners include CS Lewis, Arthur Ransome, Terry Pratchett, Quentin Blake, Shirley Hughes and Raymond Briggs.

William Grill and Tanya Landman pose with their winning medals

Cezanne oil painting gets export bar

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he government has taken steps to stop a masterpiece by 19th Century French artist Paul Cezanne leaving the UK. A temporary export bar has been

placed on Vue sur L’Estaque et le Chateau d’If, a fixture at the Fitzwilliam Museum in Cambridge for three decades.

A UK buyer is being sought to match the £13.5m asking price for

Culture minister Ed Vaizey (left) said he hoped the Cezanne (right) would “soon be back on the walls of one of our great public collections”

the painting, which dates from around 1883 to 1885.

Culture minister Ed Vaizey said he hoped the bar would stop the “quietly beautiful” artwork going overseas.

“For almost 30 years this... painting has adorned the walls of the Fitzwilliam Museum where it has been enjoyed by countless visitors,” he said.

“I hope that the temporary export bar I have put in place will result in a UK buyer coming forward and that the painting will soon be back on the walls of one of our great public collections.”

The painting was acquired in 1936 by Samuel Courtauld and stayed in the art collector and industrialist’s family until its sale to a foreign buyer in February.

The decision on the export licence being requested for the oil painting - a view of the Bay of L’Estaque on the Mediterranean at Marseilles - will be deferred until 21 December

FROM THE LIVE STAGE with Patrick-Jude Oteh 0803 700 0496, 0805 953 5215 (SMS only)

NOT LAUGHING

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his has been a very hard weekend. There has been little or no rest and certainly no time to think of what we will be doing in the next couple of months. I was inundated with stories about friends and I certainly started thinking about that everlasting song of Elton John’s Circle of Life that featured in the cartoon, Lion King. There are things that are very hard to fathom or take and this weekend revealed a host of them.

Consider a brilliant lawyer. Brilliant, vivacious and very fashion and person conscious. She gets married and is soon pregnant.

Unfortunately, she loses the baby and she very gradually slips into depression. A very severe depression that bothered on mental imbalance to sheer lunacy. The family comprising very educated people take to prayers and prayer warriors because the sickness is an ‘attack of the enemy’. The pilgrimage from one prayer house to another starts alongside the employment of different individuals who claim that they fast and pray nonstop for twenty one days. All this while, this brilliant lawyer is degenerating into catatonia. She then stays for days without talking to anybody and when she does it is an incoherent jumble. To all those that suggested that this is a clear case for medical science and for psychiatrists, they are laughed off as not understanding the ways of the world. This again drags on until she is now a public property. Depression has been overtaken by madness! And I immediately think of Didi, the protagonist in Nkem Nwankwo’s The Madness of Didi.

Take a young man. In those days when fashion design, make-up and hairdressing was not common to guys and men, he takes to this profession and rises to the very top of his peers. Long before many of us knew what money was, he was already made and legitimately too. He had outfits and he was very generous.

In the 1990’s and the early part of this century, his brand was everywhere. He simply blossomed and it was a delight to watch his brand grow from strength to strength. Then he took ill.

He had to go out of the country to seek for a cure in places where the medical facilities could be trusted. He could afford it. He was away for a year. By the time he returned, first he had become history in the social circuit and secondly all his businesses were gone. Presently he is battling for his life with barely enough to sustain him. The only help these days comes from friends and family but his main agony is that ‘no one remembers him anymore!’.

Take another friend – a colleague actually. He has attempted suicide thrice. The three attempts failed so he is still alive to tell his story in another clime. He no longer lives in Nigeria.

His family was smart enough to ship him out of these shores as all the psychiatrists they visited wrote him off as a very hopeless case that was beyond redemption. But out there he met some incredible psychiatrists who were able to reach him at his lowest and today he talks and speaks as a motivational speaker who earns a living talking to young people about how to cope with the vicissitudes and challenges of life. He knows because he has been there and it has been the lowest of depths that a human soul can comprehend.

Nigeria is tough. I certainly acknowledge that we all have our different thresholds. For pain and for emotional distress and it is in such times that we find that our support groups are so few and in some cases practically non-existent. Thus a lot of people are condemned to a life of misery because they are known publicly to be seeing psychiatrist and as far we are concerned anyone who is seeing a psychiatrist ‘don dey craze’.

Not all of us have the emotional strength to live from day to day. Some of us are so used to it that when we are confronted with living in an organised place, we lose it and we miss the chaos that we are used to here. The mental health situation of a lot of Nigerians is presently suspect. And this was why a few years ago, someone suggested that some of our leaders should be made to undergo mandatory psychiatrist evaluation, he was laughed out of scorn. But with what happened this weekend and the closeness of these cases, I know he was not far from the truth.

Page 30

Arts & Culture Book Review Book: Blood Lines & Other Plays Author: Chris Anyokwu Publisher: Kraft Books Date: 2014 Length: 180 pages Reviewer: Naza Amaeze Okoli

Blood lines & other plays

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serious writer, says Chinua Achebe, “must look for an animal whose blood must match the power of his offering”.

Writing, Achebe implies, is akin to sacrifice. To commemorate Nigeria’s one hundred turbulent years of nationhood, Anyokwu brings to the altar three plays, bound in a volume aptly entitled Blood Lines & Other Plays. In the African traditional religion, the task of the diviner is threefold.

He begins by showing his caller the root of their problem, and expands the discourse by showing evidence of its existence, and then ends by pointing to the solution.

Considered together, the three plays in this volume follow this divination pattern.

The first play, “Blood Lines” is a riddle on many counts. The major character, Chief Ogie, is a superbly educated banker who is about to be appointed Governor of the Central Bank. When the play opens, he is about to take a third wife, even though he is aware he suffers from an ailment that prevents him from making a woman pregnant. “The larger the better,” he tells his first wife, Atunne. He encourages all three of them to seek lovers outside his home – an arrangement that gives them several children. When it becomes apparent that his bid for the Central Bank job will be successful, he begins to receive text messages from unknown persons who claim they have “damning information” about his past and about the “arrangement”. Only then does he become worried. In his search for solution, he is led by his close friend and driver, Ehis, to a cult group where he is to learn that it is, in fact, Ehis, who is the father of all his children and originator of the text messages.

The group, however, promises to help him secure the position of Central Bank Governor. The next scene shows Ogie in an elaborate ceremony. He has clinched the coveted position. We are told in the closing scene that at a second party in his city home, a mysterious fire broke out and destroyed all his possessions, leaving him in a sorry state, possibly paralysed.

If “Blood Lines” is concerned with a form of personal failing, the second play, “Citadel” explores a crisis of a more systemic nature.

Dr David is a forward-looking university teacher whose passion for new ideas pits him against Professor Sogo, a senior member of his department. Where he prefers to inject elements of “Popular Culture” in his

PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESday, JUNE 24, 2015

literature classes, Sogo favours the “Classics”. “You can take your kitchen-sink drama and prurient garbage elsewhere. You cannot practise your schizoid art here,” he yells at David. This hostile work environment encourages him to apply for fellowships overseas.

He soon receives an offer from Germany which also allows him to travel with his family. But it is at that time that he suffers a breakdown. The closing scene shows him recovering remarkably at a psychiatrist’s, surrounded by his family. They speak of resuming their preparation for the travel, as the play ends on a note of hope.

But it is this hope – or, its more enduring form, salvation – that is the subject of the final play, “Facing Mount Ebo.” A deeply spiritual play, it dramatises the chaos that results when the past is divorced from the present.

Many young men from the town of Akaba have strayed to the city and started the business of “cartpushing”. One of them, Irorere, meets Eboigbe, a pastor, who preaches to him about Salvation at a road junction. They learn in the course of their conversation that they are from the neighbouring towns of Ogan and Akaba. The pastor, who was raised by his mother in the city, believes he comes from Ogan; he remembers, however, that his mother called Akaba “Ebo” which means “curse”. Irorere, meanwhile, suspects the pastor is, in fact, a native of Akaba: “For one thing,” he tells Eboigbe, “your accent…is exactly like mine… You might for

“

all we know be an Akaba man. Like me.” A search for an answer takes them to Akaba. Here, Eboigbe learns that he was, indeed, born in Akaba. His mother had left with him for the city after his father, Ufoi, was unjustly killed by order of the king, nearly fifty years before. Before his death, however, he cursed Akaba and called it, “Ebo”. The play ends on a sombre, but celebratory, note: the curse is reversed, and members of the community begin again to experience peace and prosperity.

These plays, in very many ways, are a tribute to an ailing nation; a dramatisation of the steps needed for the nation’s recovery. When the first play opens, two village women bring the audience up to speed on developments in the community – a task which they undertake with much relish. They are to appear again and again in the course of the play for the same purpose. A congenial pair, they are graceful in their disagreements and are often quick to find a common ground.

This peaceful, democratic, manner of viewing issues is indeed a part of the playwright’s vision of societal harmony. Chief Ogie’s home offers the antithesis. His chaotic personal life is seen as a direct consequence of his vaulting ego and greed. These women represent, then, the conscience of that society, the values for which it is known. They attend all Ogie’s weddings. “Each time I recall that event,” recounts the first woman, “my body trembles as though I’m the one who got married that

If “Blood Lines” is concerned with a form of personal failing, the second play, “Citadel” explores a crisis of a more systemic nature.

day.” As Ogie soars, they celebrate him: “I know my man,” the first woman proclaims. When in the final scene, they appear to break the news of Ogie’s tragedy to the audience, they are downcast.

While, therefore, they “burst into song and dance” as they exit the stage after their first appearance, the final scene shows them solemn, as if in mourning: “Let’s go home,” the second woman tells the first.

“See, darkness is falling around us.”

The problem we encounter in the second play is a very present one. Dr David’s university is a society that desires change but is totally averse to it. “So you take the fun and leave the learning?” queries Professor Sogo. “Or put differently: you make the fun the learning? How do you move culture and society forward with your thematisation of fun?” It is this contempt for “fun” or change that stalls development, Anyokwu argues. But it does more: it wrecks the mind, and drives talents away.

It is also the playwright’s argument that there is a collective, ultimate, destination for the nation, and that for that transition to be possible, a kind of soulsearching must precede it. Like the Biblical Mount Sinai where Moses received the Ten Commandments, “Mount Ebo” is a place for answer, instruction and ultimately direction. For Pastor Eboigbe, it is even more instructive – it was a place once despised; he was raised to see it as a curse; but it is to become the place of his freedom.

Ultimately, his story is reflective of the saying that the man who holds another to the ground also keeps himself from rising: it is only when the curse is broken that the pastor, whose father pronounced it, regains his freedom and is blessed with a child.

The audience will find the masterful use of Nigerian pidgin and urban colloquialism in many parts of the plays particularly refreshing – “Now we have finefine roads”; “…with money like san’ san’ flowing…”; “Do you want me to miss out on the wedding of the decade, with all the food, drink and all? Lai-lai, thank you very much”; “How about her ikebe? …

Na helele, my sister”; “I swear to God who made me”; “Yes o my sister”; “And if it is a girl, your own don finish”; “So, no cause for control. Everything is under alarm”; “Are you a child that I should use all my mouth to say it?”; “You think it’s moinmoin?”

“Like seriously?”; “Na IGG! Initial Gra-gra”; “the roforofo fight”.

A final observation concerns the playwright’s depiction of setting, culture and identity.

Different local languages appear to collapse into one another – influences from Bini, Yoruba, Igbo, Ika, Itsekiri, and so on.

Ogie speaks enthusiastically about “Ogbono, edikaikon, oha, ofe nsala, ewedu and gbegiri, and tuwon shinkafa”; and, somewhere in the interior parts of Bini, Ogie and his family speak of swearing an oath before Ogun, a Yoruba god.

POEM OF THE WEEK

Mariama Hotel

By Unyierie

A thousand pound bomb, They said, dug that crater The size of a football field.

Human flesh flung here and there, Broken bones and split skulls Mingled in the cauldron of blood And earth as steel melted in the Heat and fortified concrete blocks Turned into pelting marbles.

Mariama Hotel! The hub of the Rich and famous, lay in ruins Of smoldering fire.

The crowd stood nearby, Shocked and shaken at the Perpetuation of human evil, Too fearful to approach, lest It too got swallowed in The gaping, solitary abyss.

“Who gave them the right To do this to us?”

Eyes misted in tears, the nameless Woman crumbled.

Five mangled bodies were all That remained of her children.

Had they not played on that Narrow street by day? Had they not chased each other, Squealing with joy as QUOTE their Paper planes made somersaulting Manoeuvres? Was it fate that by Winged objects would they Someday sacrifice their lives?

PAGE 31

PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESday, JUNE 24, 2015

Comment

Time, change, and transformation in Nigeria

4. Crippling, deep-rooted corruption in all facets of the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s national life that has almost become a way of life of the average Nigerian, to the extent that almost all Nigerians are seen by the outside world as corrupt. Through corrupt acts the country has lost huge resources that could have been used to effectively finance development projects. It is estimated that from 1960, when oil was produced and exported in commercial quantity, to the present times, the country has earned $600 billion from oil and gas, out of which $400billion has been lost through corrupt practices like misappropriation, criminal breach of trust, overinvoicing, and outright stealing.

5. Inadequate and decaying infrastructure, shown in: i. Only 18% of the total 197,000 km of road network in the country is paved and motorable. ii. An ineffective and inefficient railway system that has more than 75% of its 200 locomotives and 54 stunt locomotives not being operative; less than 50% of its 480 passenger coaches and 4,900 freight wagons in serviceable condition; and accounting for less than 1% transport service, with declining passenger service from 155million in 1980 to 1million in 2007, and freight delivery from 3million tons in mid-1980s to 117,000 tons in 2000. iii. The absence of a national airline, despite having a fairly well developed aviation sector that has four international hubs, 20 domestic airports, and 62 private airstrips. iv. Unreliable and unstable electricity supply characterised by frequent and unpredictable load shedding, owing to below installed capacity generation and distribution, in spite of the huge resources deployed to reforms in the sector. Consequently, only 40% of households, citizens, and businesses have access to it, with their not having supply for 320 days, on the average, annually, forcing them to rely on stand bye generators on which they expend huge resources and incur colossal financial losses. v. A battered educational system that has very weak basic educational foundation, and an unreliable tertiary education framework that has no Nigerian University ranked among the top 1,700 in the world and among the top 10 in Africa. Consequently, Nigeria is not ranked among the top 72 countries actively undertaking research and development, as it spends less than $100million on research and development annually. vi. Display of high level indiscipline in all facets of the national life of Nigerians. This

has affected their attitudes to work, particularly those of public servants; and has led to poor service delivery and ineffective performance by the government at all levels. vii. Poorly funded and maintained health care facilities and services that have denied the citizens access to effective health care services. This has led to a large majority of Nigerians wallowing in preventable diseases.

II. TRANSFORMATION IN THE COUNTRY There is no gainsaying the fact that there is palpable need for transformation in Nigeria. In all parts of the country, and at all levels, there is this dire need felt. There is a national anxiety for the ills bedevilling the country to be cured, so as to hasten the realisation of development and growth of the country, and the exhibition of its new-found status as the largest economy in Africa, and the 25th largest economy in the world. This dire need has not been acknowledged by the past administration whose transformation agenda had not really moved the country to any property. This account for the existing detestable condition in the country today. It also established the basis for this write up which provide a contribution to the already existing APC Agenda on change and transformation in Nigeria.

For Nigeria, transformation initiatives have to be taken in order to bring about the following re-orientation: 1. Moving the country away from being oil and gas dominated.

2. Diversifying the economy further in order to develop and entrench the agricultural and industrial sectors.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;

3. Making the oil and gas sector proactive.

4. Moving the country away from being public sector dominated to being private sector driven.

5. Integrating the national economy into the global economy.

6. Restructuring the country in order to make the federating units to be truly federal in political and financial matters.

7. Re-orienting the Nigerian citizens in order to make them to be disciplined, productive, upright, and trustworthy.

8. Bringing about a new Nigeria that will be the pride of all citizens, and a worthy ally of members of the comity of nations.

III. AN AGENDA FOR THE TRANSFORMATION OF NIGERIA In the light of the foregoing, I wish to, humbly, contribute by presenting the under-mentioned as items to be added to the well articulated agenda of our great party, the APC, already has for the transformation of our dear country, Nigeria.

Including these items on the agenda of the party will, no doubt assist in enriching the agenda, whose implementation Nigerians are anxiously awaiting.

1. All who have been elected into new offices, and are awaiting inauguration, should note the lessons thrown up by the results of the March 28 and April 11 general elections. All other members of APC should also note the lessons. The salient ones are: i.

Times have changed the mentality of Nigerians. They will no longer be swayed by sentiments and be cowed and deceived by the power and privileges of the incumbency of serving politicians to blindly support the returning of non-performing people and parties during elections. ii. Any elected person who

fails to perform and deliver in office will be voted out. iii. Nigerians have discovered the power of the ballot box. They will henceforth be using it to get what they want.

2. All those elected on the platform of our political party, together with those to be appointed into positions of authority by the executive, should dedicate themselves to performing effectively on their assumption in their respective offices.

3. The winning party, APC, should deliberately take steps to consolidate itself as the ruling party by attaining unity on all fronts, integrating the legacy political parties that merged to form it, and entrenching the adherence to the culture, principles, and policies of the party in disciplined and united manners.

4. The party should adopt a people-(citizens-) centred approach in all its activities, with the aim of meeting and satisfying the aspirations and yearnings of the people to primarily: i. Liberate them from abject poverty through positive engagement include them in all development and service delivery schemes.

5. Re-orient the Nigerian citizensâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; psychology in order to bring about an ethical revolution that will challenge and appeal to the conscience of the citizens, to the extent of influencing them to drop : i. U n w h o l e s o m e dispositions abuse of power and shameful practices.

6. The government should add to its anticipated transformation programme on restructuring the Nigerian economy and agenda which should have the following as its components, among others. i. Increasing agricultural production.

Prevent MDAs and Government owned companies from expending any portion of their internally generated revenues without appropriation by the National Assembly.

ii. Increasing solid mineral mining, processing, and exportation. iii. I n c r e a s i n g manufacturing activities. iv. Enhancing the production of scientists, and nonscience professionals. v. Developing the tertiary and service sectors of the economy. vi. Encouraging exports and export trade, especially to and with other African countries. vii. Tightening the revenue generation mechanism of the country that will : a.

Strengthen tax administration. b. Prevent unnecessary granting of import duty waivers, except where such are incorporated in the annual budgets of the country. c.

Enhance the capacity of all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), and government owned companies to generate and remit internal revenue to the government at all levels promptly in compliance with the Fiscal Responsibility Act. d. Prevent MDAs and Government owned companies from expending any portion of their internally generated revenues without appropriation by the National Assembly. e. Make the MDAs and Government owned companies to be audited annually and promptly. f. Prevent leakages from the revenue cycle by ensuring the proper costing of projects in order to take care of inflation and plug loopholes for the siphoning of funds.

IV. Conclusion In the foregoing, I have attempted to contribute thoughts on the agenda that my great party, APC, should adopt in order to bring about the change it has promised Nigerians. Before producing the agenda, I shared reflections I had on the outcomes of the March 28 and April 11, 2015 elections, in the course of which I pointed out the effects of time on events and the reason why Nigerians need change in the country.

My prayer is that all Nigerians who have been elected on the platform of my great party, the APC, will mobilise themselves, enter into pacts with themselves, and perform excellently upon assuming office, in order to guarantee their continuous winning of future elections May the Almighty Allah empower and bless us with success. Amen.

Sen. Umaru Ibrahim Kurfi, is represents Katsina Central Senatorial District

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PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESday, JUNE 24, 2015

Youth sues for patriotism among NYSC members A

National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member, Miss Jalila Ahmad, has urged Nigerian youths, especially NYSC members, to be patriotic when embarking on Community Development Services (CDS).

Ahmad, who is serving with the Nigerian Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), a parastatal agency of the Federal Ministry of Health, made the call in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja.

Ahmad said that exhibiting some level of patriotism would enable corps members to

establish projects that would be beneficial to the community.

She said that she decided to execute projects worth three million naira at the Primary Health Care Centre in Jikwoyi, Abuja, because of her love for the country, women and children.

The corps member said she was also motivated to embark on the projects due to the poor sanitation of the environment and the need to give the centre a facelift.

“I will like to encourage corps members to embark on community development

projects without looking at personal gains.

“If you really want to have a successful project, then, you need to exhibit patriotism; otherwise, you might give up along the line.

“This patriotism must be devoid of tribal and religious sentiment because the idea is to see everybody as a Nigerian, ’’ she said.

Ahmad, who graduated from University of Houston in the U.S. with a degree in Psychology and Biology, added that she constructed a modern toilet, repaired a borehole,

erected signposts and also provided refuse bins, among others in the area.

According to her, the projects which also included a labour room, two office blocks for family planning and antenatal, formed part of her CDS, sponsored by government and nongovernment institutions.

Ahmad commended the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC) for contributing largely to the projects and called on wellmeaning Nigerians to assist the government in providing

basic amenities for the lessprivileged to ensure a healthy living.

The projects executed by Ahmad were inaugurated and received on June 18

by Josephine Nnodim, the Supervisory Councilor for Health in Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC). (NAN)

Cleric urges fathers to be agents of change

By Usman Shuaibu

T

Water vendors waiting for buyers, yesterday at Mpape, in Abuja.

Photo: Mahmud Isa

Two guards docked for negligent conduct

T

he Police have arraigned two security guards at a Wuse Zone 2 Senior Magistrates’ court, Abuja, for alleged negligent conduct.

The accused persons are Ahile Joel, 26, and Lorky Enock, 34, all of Easytec Security Company Abuja.

The Prosecutor, Sgt. Abdullahi Ahmed, told the court that Mr. Tajudeen Olanrewaju of No. B14 Zion Court Estate,

Wuse 2 Abuja, reported the case at the Maitama Police Station on January 19.

Ahmed said that in January, the complainant travelled to Lagos and parked his BMW car with Reg. No. AKD 541 BM at the Estate car park.

He said that the car was parked under the care of the accused persons and three others now at large as the security men attached to the estate.

According to him, the accused persons were negligent in their duty by allowing unknown persons to steal the said car from the premises.

The prosecutor said the offence contravened the provisions of section 196 of the penal code.

The accused persons, however, pleaded not guilty to the allegations against them.

The Magistrate, Mrs. Folashade Oyekan, granted the accused persons bail in the sum of N100, 000 each with two sureties each in like sum.

Oyekan ordered that one of the sureties must be a civil servant of not less than Grade Level 7 and must reside within the jurisdiction of the court.

She adjourned the matter till August 26, for proper hearing.

(NAN)

he Pastor in charge of the First Baptist Church in Gwagwalada Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Rev. Julius Abiola Ayotude, has called on the fathers to always be agents of change in all ramifications for the betterment of the society.

Ayotude, who made the call during the occasion of Fathers’ Day celebration, at the weekend in Gwagwalada, pointing out that if fathers exhibit attitudinal change at their various homes as well as working places, will reduce corruption in Nigeria.

He advised the fathers to deem it necessary to place a greater emphasis on the needs of their families in the interest of peace and togetherness.

He also charged the Christians to be good ambassadors of Christ at all times, saying that the fathers’ day ceremony is celebration being observed by the Christians in the Baptist Church annually.

The clergyman, however, used the occasion to describe President Muhammadu Buhari as an exemplary leader who is ready to take Nigerians to the Promised Land, noted that the leadership was not a matter of religion, but a matter of integrity.

Also speaking, the President of main Missionary Union of the Church, Mr. Emmanuel Ogunyede, pointed out that the fathers’ day was being celebrated every year in order to recognize the contributions of the fathers in the Christendom.

PAGE 33

PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESday, JUNE 24, 2015

Metro

A corps member, Miss Jalila Ahmad (right), showing the Head of Community Development Service, FCT NYSC, Hajiya Hajara Hussein (middle) the bore hole she rehabilitated at Jikwoyi Primary Health Care Centre, yesterday in Abuja. With them are from left: Director, Human Resources Department, Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation, Mr. Mohammed Ahmed; Supervisory Councillor for Health, Abuja Municipal Area Council, Mrs. Josephine Nnodim, and Incident Manager, Nigeria Centre for Disease Control, Dr Kenneth Madiebo.

Photo: NAN

Governance: Bwari Chair seeks residents’ support

By Usman Shuaibu

T

he Executive Chairman of Bwari Area Council in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Peter Yohanna Ushafa, has called on the residents of the area, to always support and co-operate

with the government for the overall development of the council.

Ushafa, who made the call in an interview with newsmen recently, in Bwari, pointed out that his administration will continue to provide purposeful leadership capable of satisfying

the aspirations of the people at all times.

He reiterated that despite the shortage of monthly subventions from the Federal Government to the area council he will continue to do his best to focus on the provision of infrastructural facilities for the

people.

He said that he would partner with the relevant organizations to source for enough money to provide basic amenities for the residents.

He expressed joy over the existing relationship between the

management of the council and the residents of Bwari, while calling on them to continue to sustain the tempo.

The chairman therefore, said that he would continue to work in hand in hand with the security agencies for the sake of peace.

Chukwu tasks corps members on diligence, innovation

By Stanley Onyekwere

T

he Permanent Secretary, Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), Engr. John Chukwu has tasked members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) posted to the Territory to carry out their primary assignments diligently as well as initiate programmes that will impact positively on their host communities.

Chukwu, also charged members of the Corps members to serve as agents of change in

their respective areas of primary assignment.

The Permanent Secretary, who was represented at the occasion by the FCT Director of Establishment and Training, Salihu Hayyat Mohammed, gave this charge at the closing ceremony of the 2015 Batch ‘A’ Stream II Orientation Course, on Monday, in Kubwa..

He reminded the NYSC members that the hallmark of the scheme is to foster unity among the youths of this nation, which underscores the need to freely interact and maintain cordial

relationship with people you are to meet there.

“I urge you to serve as agents of change by carrying out your primary assignments diligently and initiate programmes or projects that will impact positively on your host communities”.

“You are to serve as worthy ambassadors of the NYSC and a beacon of hope for the teeming population of the Nigerian youths wherever you found yourselves,” he stressed.

He appealed to corps employers not to reject corps

members deployed to any organization, describing such action as disservice to the nation and a display of lack of patriotism.

Furthermore, the Permanent Secretary used the occasion to implore all corps employers in public and private sectors within the Territory to retain those posted to them, being their contribution to nation building.

Chukwu, therefore directed all the six Area Council Chairmen, Traditional rulers and security agencies in the FCT to embrace the corps members deployed

to their areas of jurisdiction by ensuring their protection, welfare and comfort throughout their service year.

Earlier in his speech, the FCT NYSC Coordinator, Olanipekun Alao, appreciated the consistent support of the Permanent Secretary and the entire FCT Administration for the wellbeing of the corps members throughout the three weeks of their stay at the Kubwa Orientation Camp.

He reiterated that the Corps members’ stay at the camp has been made easy and memorable.

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PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESday, JUNE 24, 2015

News

Health: NGO supports 820 orphans, vulnerable children in Gombe

From David Hassan, Gombe

A

ssociation for Reproductive and Family Health in Gombe has said 820 orphans and vulnerable children have benefited from the association through related health matters in the state.

The programme manager of the association, Mrs Faith Lana who disclosed this recently in Gombe while addressing

newsmen during a closing ceremony, said that the NGO has been in Gombe since 2007 and they are rounding up the project by the end of June.

She said the support was basically provided by children who were made vulnerable

by HIV/AIDS either infected or affected. According to her, they selected three Gombe based NGO’s, and they gave the support through them, and the

NGOs are known as care givers.

“We provided support in the area of education, health, nutrition and psychosocial support, built the capacity of the care givers and thought them haw to have a saving culture through the village saving and loan association ” she said.

The programme manager said they are handing over the project to the state government

to continue from where they stop.

“The grand is descending, we are conducting a close over, hand it over to the state government for continuity.

“We are calling on individual, public sectors, as well as company to help through their corporate social responsibility project” she said.

In his remark, representative of the Federal Ministry of

President Muhammadu Buhari (2nd right), Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Mr. Femi Adesina (2nd left), Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, Malam Garba Shehu (right), and Chairman, State House Press Corps, Mr. Kehinde Amodu (left), after president meeting with State House Correspondents, on Monday at the Presidential Villa, in Abuja.

Kaduna elders want El-Rufai to implement peace report From Mohammad Ibrahim Kaduna

T

Photo: Joe Oroye

Bamanga Tukur mourns Chinyere Asika

By Ahmed Abubakar

F

ormer National Chairman of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Alhaji Bamanga Tukur, has described the death of Mrs. Chinyere Asika, wife of the late former administrator of the defunct East-Central state, Ukpabi Asika as devastating.

Tukur, who said that he worked closely with late Mrs. Asika in NEPAD, further described her as a great woman of virtue and excellence.

Tukur, in a statement by his Special Assistant, Prince Oliver Okpala, said that Mrs. Asika had an incomparable intellect.

“She exhumed uncommon confidence, diligence, determination, sense of duty, and above all, a penetrating spirit of nationalism while working in NEPAD and discharging her duties to the Nigerian Nation.

“She was courteous, polite, well-groomed and of the vanishing species of women whose undying devotion to the family and good

moral upbringing of their offspring could not be compromised.

“Mrs. Asika was natural and down to earth. She was a strong believer in the Nigerian project.

Little wonder, then, that she stood solidly behind her principled husband, Late Ajie Ukpabi Asika, in the heady years of the war that Nigeria should be one, even at great personal cost and risk.

“It is no exaggeration to say that the likes of Mrs. Asika are few and far between, in the present Nigeria polity.

She was a dedicated wife to her spouse and a loving mother to her precious children who are all doing marvelously well in their various chosen fields of endeavour,” he said.

Tukur added that the passing on of this great Nigerian woman, the nation has been deprived of one of her finest crop of women.

According to him, “her demise is an immense loss to Nigeria as a whole. We must however take solace in the fact that she fulfilled her mission on earth.”

Iseyin council workers beg legislators to donate allowances to them

S

ome staff of Iseyin Area Council of Oyo State have appealed to the lawmakers representing them at both state and federal levels to donate their allowances to them.

They made the appeal in separate interviews with News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Tuesday in Iseyin, Oyo state.

They said that the assistance would help them to meet their immediate needs and cater for their families because of unpaid salaries for two months.

Bambi Ismail, a 45-year-old Accountant, made passionate appeal to the lawmakers and public-spirited individuals to

Women Affairs and Social Development, Malam Lawal Nas, commended the ARFH for making judicious use of the fund to improve the living standard of Nigerian children.

He further called on Gombe state government to make sure that the children continue to receive best of service enshrined in the Nigerian child right act.

In his speech, Muhammad Bappah, Permanent Secretary Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Welfare Gombe assured the sustainability of the project.

assist the council staff. ``We are begging them to do as one Senator from Bayelsa did to Osun people by giving us some of their allowances so that we don’t die of hunger. ``It’s been three month since we last received salary, we went on strike, resumed and still nothing has changed. ``If our government can’t pay us our dues, then we have to appeal to senators, House of Representative members and state assembly members to come together and help us,” Ismail said.

Another council staff, who pleaded anonymous, told NAN that legislators and other public

office holders from the state should come together and rescue the council workers in Iseyin. ``We are appealing to them to help us, we are not saying they are not entitled to wardrobe allowance but they should please donate it to us. ``My children have been home for about two weeks now because we can’t pay their school fees, my husband and I work with the council. ``Apart from public office holders, we are also calling on rich people from far and near to come to our rescue in this trying time of ours,’’ she said.

Ayomikun Sangotikun, a

42-year-old staff of Itesiwaju Area Council, said that Federal Government should intervene as soon as possible to solve the lingering crisis of unpaid salary. ``I know that philanthropists, lawmakers and public spirited individuals can help but for how long can we do that. ``The appeal is for the immediate intervention of government as the permanent solution. ``Let the sharing formular be review so that state can pay salary of workers and their arrears. These I think will be a very good development for us all,’’ Sangotikun said. (NAN)

he Kaduna Development Elders’ Initiative has called on the state governor, Malam Nasir El-Rufai to set up a white paper committee to study the 2012/2013 state peace and reconciliation committee report and make appropriate recommendations for implementation.

It could be recalled that due to persistent crises occurring in the state since 1980s, the then governor of the state, Sir Patrick Ibrahim Yakowa formed the reconciliation with 70 eminent citizens of the state.

A statement signed by the group’s secretary, Dr Isa Abdullahi Shika said the commission as proposed by the committee is generally a mechanism for both addressing and preventing any breach of peace in any part of the state. “ To also find solutions to those factors that cause the crises/ breach of peace in the state. That would certainly go a long away to guarantee an enduring peace and peaceful co-development of all the people of the state. “ Which is a prerequisite for political stability, socioeconomic development of all parts of the state and prosperity of its citizens. The committee concluded its assignment on 13th December,2012, but the report was only accepted by the immediate past governor Muktar Ramalan Yero on 15, May, 2013. “ As result of lack of interest by the governor in the report of the committee, no action was taken till end of his tenure, the report contained far reaching recommendations on peace/ security, reconciliation, peaceful co-existence, socio economic development of the state and posterity of its citizens,” they said.

PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESday, JUNE 24, 2015

Page 35

International international_peoplesdailyng@yahoo.com

Executing drug dealers in Southeast Asia

A coffin with the body of Indonesian drug convict Zainal Abidin is buried after he was shot dead by firing squad in April.

ANALYSIS

By Kate Mayberry

O

ver the past decade some governments have abolished drugrelated executions while others revived the death penalty.

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia - Shortly before each plane lands in Kuala Lumpur, as the cabin crew politely ask passengers to put their seats upright and turn off all electronic devices, those on board also receive a chilling warning about “severe” penalties awaiting those found guilty of dealing drugs.

Malaysia is one of only 13 countries in the world that imposes a mandatory death sentence for drug trafficking murder and nine other crimes can also result in capital punishment - but officials are again hinting at the possibility of review. The government first indicated the possibility of review six years ago.

“When policies are not working they should be changed,” Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department Paul Low told more than 300 delegates at a recent Asian Regional Congress on the Death Penalty.

Low, who has

responsibility for human rights, noted the numbers sentenced to death for drug offences continue to rise, and Malaysia’s commitment to capital punishment for such crimes made it difficult for the government to argue for a reprieve for its own citizens caught in similar circumstances in other countries.

Legal analysts say it’s important that governments take the lead in moving away from retributive forms of justice.

“Even if there’s high public support for the death penalty, countries that have abandoned it have not waited for their populations to change,” associate professor Chan Wing Cheong, of the Faculty of Law at the National University of Singapore, told Al Jazeera. “They have done it because it’s the right thing to do.”

Reconsidering execution Over the past 10 years, Asian governments, like much of the rest of the world, have reconsidered the death penalty. Cambodia, the Philippines, East Timor, and Mongolia have abolished it, while others including Vietnam and Singapore have reviewed the scope of the laws surrounding its use. Yet,

despite recent progress, Asia remains the continent with the world’s highest number of executions. Many on death row are drug mules.

Blaming the scourge of drug addiction, some countries have resumed executions while others have sent increasing numbers of people to their deaths.

“It’s a policy that governments choose, or do not choose, to embrace,” said Rick Lines, executive director of Harm Reduction International, which researches drug policy and the death penalty.

“The biggest example of that this year is Indonesia.

In 2012, we categorised Indonesia as a ‘low application’ country, but this year they have executed 14 people for drugs. It’s not a change of culture or tradition.

It’s a change in policy.”

Indonesian President Joko Widodo, who took office in October 2014, says the executions were necessary to show Indonesia’s commitment to fighting the drug trade. Nearly all of those shot by a firing squad - Indonesia’s chosen method - were foreign nationals.

“There is a deeply rooted hatred against drugs [in Indonesia],” said Ricky Gunawan, director of Lembaga Bantuan Masyarakat Hukum, which provides legal assistance to people facing the death penalty. “With this kind of hatred, it’s easy for politicians to use this as a political tool to get sympathy from the public.”

Deterrent effect?

The United Nations says drug offences do not meet the

“

Even if there’s high public support for the death penalty, countries that have abandoned it have not waited for their populations to change,” associate professor Chan Wing Cheong, of the Faculty of Law at the National University of Singapore, told Al Jazeera. “They have done it because it’s the right thing to do

threshold for “ most serious crimes “. Moreover, the mandatory sentence imposed in countries such as Malaysia violates the defendant’s right to a fair trial and due process.

Critics also question the death penalty’s deterrent effect. The Golden Triangle, where Myanmar, Laos and Thailand meet geographically, still produces one-quarter of the world’s heroin , and the cultivation of opium poppies has increased every year since 2006, according to the UN Office on Drugs and Crime. Southeast Asia is also at the centre of the methamphetamine trade.

“Organised crime moves drugs by the tonne,” said Julian McMahon, an Australian lawyer who has worked on death row cases in the region for more than a decade - most recently for Australians Andrew Chan and Myuran Sukumaran, who were among those executed in Indonesia in April.

“It’s intellectually laughable to suggest that the arrest and execution of low-level drug mules will have any effect [on the drug trade]. They are immediately replaceable by any number of similarly stupid young people, too many of whom have been my clients.”

PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESday, JUNE 24, 2015

Page 36

International

Ebola outbreak: New cases in Freetown, Sierra Leone

T

wo new cases of Ebola have been recorded in the Sierra Leone capital Freetown, weeks after the city was thought to be free of the disease.

Health officials say there are fears of further infections as the cases occurred in a densely populated slum.

Fire engulfs clothing market in Kenya’s capital Nairobi

A

huge fire has destroyed large parts of East Africa’s biggest second-hand clothing market in Kenya’s capital, Nairobi, officials say.

Thousands of people lost properties and other valuables in the inferno at the Gikomba market, they said.

The blaze spread quickly through the market and firemen extinguished it several hours after it began.

The cause of the fire is still unclear but it may have been started by an electrical fault, reports say.

The market has a monthly turnover of $1.1m (£700,000), says the BBC’s Abdi Noor in Nairobi.

There were chaotic scenes as people tried to salvage their belongings, he adds.

The market is visited daily by thousands of people from East Africa to buy clothes and food.

Police and the Kenyan Red Cross said no major casualties had been reported.

A few traders sustained minor injuries while trying to salvage their property, they said.

This is the second fire to hit Nairobi in two days. On Monday, a fire gutted a petrol depot in the city’s industrial district.

Sierra Leone’s National Ebola Response Centre said there was great concern because all Ebola quarantine facilities in Freetown had been closed.

West Africa is recovering from the deadliest Ebola outbreak in history.

More than 11,000 people have died since December 2013.

The latest cases were found in the Freetown slum of Magazine.

The north of Sierra Leone continues to be affected by Ebola, as does neighbouring Guinea.

Liberia, the other country

affected by the recent outbreak, was declared Ebola free in May after 42 days without a new case.

Last month, six people were put in isolation in prison in Guinea after being accused of travelling with a corpse of a relative who had died of Ebola.

South Sudan government declares cholera outbreak J

uba, South Sudan - South Sudan’s government has declared cholera outbreak in the capital city, where at least 18 people died and 171 cases were confirmed.

“After subjecting those [suspected] cases to analysis … we confirm beyond doubt that there is an outbreak of cholera in Juba,” Health Minister Dr Riek Gai Kok told journalists in Juba on Tuesday.

The first suspected case was received on June 1 originating from inside the UN ‘displaced persons’ camp on the outskirts of Juba. Cases have since spread outside the camp to some of the city’s most congested neighbourhoods.

There are now 171 confirmed cases of cholera and 18 deaths from the disease, according to the ministry of health.

World Health Organization guidelines indicate that an outbreak should be declared after 10 to 20 confirmed cases.

The health minister was reluctant to explain why the government waited for three weeks before going public.

He said “we are not here today to investigate the past … information is not a cure alone ... In the last two weeks we have not been idle”.

He said that they have spent the time setting up a treatment ward, increasing surveillance and case management and trying to verify confirmed cases.

“What was lacking was the public declaration, but already we have been taking measures.

“We want to contain it here in Juba.

We don’t want it to overspill [into other parts of the country,” said the minister.

Doctors at the Juba hospital say they have enough staff and supplies to operate the small cholera ward for now.

The cases to date are being admitted to Juba Teaching Hospital – the country’s main referral facility – where an isolation ward has been established. Sixty patients are currently being treated after 16 new arrivals on Monday.

“This outbreak is so far small,” Dr Thomas Wel Maker, in charge of the hospital isolation ward, told Al Jazeera.

“But we are relieved it has been announced because now we are able to talk to the people,” said Dr Maker, the

intention being to spread vital hygiene information through Juba’s poorer neighbourhoods.

Dr Gai Kok claimed his ministry has the backing of the president and is financially equipped to tackle the outbreak with support from partner organisations and aid groups.

At Juba hospital, Dr Maker said they have enough staff and supplies to operate the small cholera ward for now.

However, nurses are working overtime without additional pay.

“Staff are paid for eight-hours [shifts], but they are now working 24 hours. They are complaining they don’t have enough food ... with this extra work, there is no money,” Dr Maker said.

Cholera broke out in the capital last year, five months into a civil war that is still ongoing over a year later. That outbreak was devastating infecting more than 6,000 people across 16 counties and resulted in the deaths of 167.

There is a strong ambition in Whitehall that the matter simply goes away. After all it was a Spanish high court judge that made the accusation of war crimes, not a British one.

“It’s being used by supporters of the genocidal regime against those who stopped the genocide.

“I think it is reprehensible that the European Arrest Warrant is being abused in this way by a junior Spanish judge,” he said. “It’s being used for political reasons and not judicial ones.”

He added that he agreed with American officials who have described the indictments as “un-researched, politically motivated and lacking in facts”.

Phil Clark, lecturer on Africa’s Great Lakes Region at the School of Oriental and African Studies in London, said there were concerns about the evidence in the Spanish indictment.

“There’s a sloppiness I think in

much of the investigation that underpins this and even very critical human rights groups, that have tended not to be very friendly to Rwanda in the past, have raised questions about the quality of the Spanish arrest warrants.”

Whenever it is criticised, especially in relation to reprisal killings of Hutus, it lashes out, accusing its critics of “genocide denial”.

In some ways, it seeks to exploit the collective international guilt arising from the world’s failure to stop the genocide of 1994.

Britain finds itself in a difficult position. It has been a close friend of Rwanda, praising the government of Paul Kagame for turning the country around and becoming one of Africa’s economic “success stories”.

However, the Kagame government comes down hard on dissent, stifles media freedom, and has been accused of meddling in conflicts across its borders.

Rwanda angry over London arrest of spy chief Karenzi Karake

T

he Rwandan government has branded the arrest of its intelligence chief Karenzi Karake as “an outrage”.

Gen Karake, 54, was arrested at Heathrow Airport on Saturday, accused of ordering massacres in the wake of the 1994 Rwanda genocide.

He was arrested by Met police officers under the European Arrest Warrant on behalf of the Spanish authorities.

Williams Nkurunziza, Rwanda’s High Commissioner to the UK, said it was “an insult to our collective conscience”.

Prime Minister David Cameron’s official spokeswoman said it was an “operational matter” for the police who were legally obliged to act on valid European Arrest Warrants.

Louise Mushikiwabo, Rwanda’s foreign minister, called the arrest “an outrage” adding: “Western solidarity in

demeaning Africans is unacceptable”.

Andrew Mitchell, former international development secretary, said he believed the arrest was a “reprehensible abuse” of the law.

In 2008, Spanish investigative judge Andreu Merelles indicted Gen Karake for alleged war crimes along with 39 other current or former high-ranking Rwandan military officials.

He is also accused of ordering the killing in 1997 of three Spanish nationals working for Medicos del Mundo.

But the Rwandan government is said to be puzzled by the timing of Gen Karake’s arrest, as he has travelled to the UK several times since the indictment was issued.

Mr Nkurunziza told the BBC World Service: “We take strong exception to the suggestion that he’s being arrested on war crimes.

“Any suggestion that any of our 40 leaders are guilty of crimes against

humanity is an insult to our collective conscience.”

Gen Karake was remanded in custody after appearing at Westminster magistrates court and he will reappear on Thursday.

A spokesman for Spain’s National Court said it was now up to the British authorities to decide whether or not to extradite him.

The arrest of General Karenzi Karake in London is bound to strain what is increasingly becoming a fragile relationship between Britain and Rwanda.

Like two best friends, harsh words are exchanged from time to time, but on this occasion it feels like a smart slap whose sting may last for some time.

It is perhaps not surprising that the detention of Rwanda’s head of intelligence is being flagged up by London as a European “obligation” rather than a British decision.

Page 37

PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESday, JUNE 24, 2015

International

Afghan parliament attack ‘hero’ given flat by president A K

Asia & Middle East

n Afghan soldier has been greeted as a hero and presented with keys to a new home for killing six of the seven insurgents who tried to storm parliament on Monday.

President Ashraf Ghani tweeted a picture of himself greeting the soldier, Esa Khan, at his office.

The soldier is also to be promoted and given a medal.

On Monday, TV stations showed Mr Khan standing over the bodies of the Taliban attackers after their failed attack.

The militants had detonated a suicide car bomb but failed to get into the parliamentary chamber.

“I just killed them,” said Mr Khan who has been lauded on Twitter.

“I was standing there and saw them running towards parliament.

“I shot one. I saw another coming. I shot six - all of them are dead.

“I would give my life for this country.”

At the time the interior ministry said the attack was repelled by police, with seven assailants killed.

Mr Ghani said he was proud of Mr Khan’s “resolve and heroism”.

The soldier’s commander, Gen Abdul Sattar, said Mr Khan had been very close to the suicide attack and shot the attackers with the assistance of colleagues at the scene.

He described Mr Khan - who belongs to the Pashtun majority from which the Taliban also draw

Islamic State conflict: Kurds ‘capture Syrian town north of Raqqa’

Sheikh Ali Salman’s arrest in December sparked protests.

their strength - as a hero for what he had done.

At least two civilians died in the militant attack and around 40 people were wounded.

The soldier alleged that Pakistan was behind the attack.

But the foreign ministry in Islamabad has issued a statement strongly condemning it and saying it is with Afghanistan “in

our common struggle against terrorism”.

Meanwhile the Afghan army says it has recaptured a key northern district taken by the Taliban a few days ago.

Chardara district in Kunduz province lies just a few kilometres from the provincial capital, Kunduz city, and its airport, and the main road to Kabul runs

through it.

The army’s commander of ground forces, Gen Morad Ali Morad, told Tolo News television he was speaking from the district and “most parts” of it had been retaken.

However a neighbouring district in the same province, Dasht-e-Archi, remains in rebel hands a day after they took it.

Pakistan heatwave: Emergency measures as toll nears 700

P

akistan’s PM Nawaz Sharif has called for emergency measures as the death toll from a heatwave in southern Sindh province reached nearly 700.

The army is now being deployed to help set up heat stroke centres, with temperatures reaching 45C (113F).

Officials have been criticised for not doing enough to tackle the crisis.

There is anger among local residents at the authorities because power cuts have restricted the use of air-conditioning units and fans, correspondents say.

Matters have been made worse by the widespread abstention from water during daylight hours during the fasting month of Ramadan.

On Tuesday, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) said it had received orders from Mr Sharif to take immediate action to tackle the crisis.

This came as Sindh province Health Secretary Saeed Mangnejo said 612 people had died in the

main government-run hospitals in the city of Karachi during the past four days. Another 80 are reported to have died in private hospitals.

Many of the victims are elderly people from low-income families.

Thousands more people are being treated, and some of them are in serious condition.

Hot weather is not unusual during summer months in Pakistan, but prolonged power cuts seem to have made matters worse, the BBC’s Shahzeb Jillani reports.

Sporadic angry protests have taken place in parts of Karachi, with some people blaming the government and Karachi’s main power utility, K-Electric, for failing to avoid deaths, our correspondent adds.

The p rime minis t e r had announced that there would be no electricity cuts but outages have increased since the start of Ramadan, he reports.

There’s anger on the street about the government’s slow response to the crisis. The provincial PPP government

appeared aloof and unresponsive.

The federal government of Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif woke up to the tragic deaths on the third day.

While politicians blamed each other for not doing enough, the army - always keen to seize opportunities to demonstrate its soft power - sprang into action to set up “heat stroke relief camps”.

By the fourth day, a campaign was launched to reiterate steps people should take in sizzling temperatures.

Many in Karachi feel that had the authorities moved proactively many lives could have been saved.

The hope now is that with the expected pre-monsoon rains later in the week the weather will improve. That will certainly provide much-needed respite to millions affected by the heatwave, but it won’t change the chronic underlying problems this evergrowing city of 20 million faces - a dysfunctional infrastructure and poor governance.

If it heats up to 39-40C, the brain tells the muscles to slow down and fatigue sets in. At 4041C heat exhaustion is likely - and

above 41C the body starts to shut down.

Chemical processes start to be affected, the cells inside the body deteriorate and there is a risk of multiple organ failure.

The body cannot even sweat at this point because blood flow to the skin stops, making it feel cold and clammy.

Heatstroke - which can occur at any temperature over 40C requires professional medical help and if not treated immediately, chances of survival can be slim.

Karachi resident Iqbal told the BBC on Monday that no-one in his family could go outside to work because of the temperature and that everyone in their area preferred to stay at home.

“In our area, there is no electricity [since the] morning.

We have complained several times, but there is no response from K-Electric,” he said.

According to Pakistan’s metrological office cooler weather is forecast from Tuesday.

The all-time highest temperature reached in Karachi is 47C, recorded in 1979.

urdish fighters in northern Syria say they have captured a key town from Islamic State, just 50km (30 miles) from the group’s headquarters at Raqqa.

A spokesman for the the Popular Protection Units (YPG) said Ain Issa and its surrounding villages were now under the militia’s “total control”.

It follows the capture on Monday night of a military base outside the town.

The YPG captured the town of Tal Abyad on the Turkish border last week, cutting a major supply line for IS. The jihadist group has suffered a string of defeats to Kurdish forces since being forced to withdraw from the town of Kobane in January after a four-month battle.

The Kurds’ rapid advance through Raqqa province continued on Monday with the fall of Brigade 93, a base which IS captured from the Syrian military last year.

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a UK-based monitoring group, reported that the YPG and allied Syrian rebel fighters overran the base before heading south towards Ain Issa, supported by US-led coalition air strikes.

By Tuesday afternoon, they had taken full control of the town and nearby villages, YPG spokesman Redur Xelil told the Reuters news agency.

“Islamic State’s defensive lines have now been pushed back to the outskirts of Raqqa city because the area between Raqqa and Ain Issa is militarily weak and they have no fortifications,” Rami Abdul Rahman, the Syrian Observatory’s director, told the AFP news agency.

Ain Issa is situated at an intersection of the main roads from Raqqa to other IS-held areas in Aleppo province, to the west, and Hassakeh province, to the east.

Raqqa is the de facto capital of the caliphate whose creation IS announced a year ago after it captured large swathes of northern and western Iraq.

As well as cutting an IS supply line, the YPG’s capture of Tal Abyad allowed the Kurds to link up other pockets they control along the Turkish border, from Iraq in the east to Kobane in the west.

In a separate development on Tuesday, IS published photographs of what it said was the destruction of Islamic shrines near the ancient ruins of Palmyra.

The images showed militants blowing up two sites described as “manifestations of polytheism in the town of Tadmur”, the modern settlement situated next to the Unesco World Heritage site.

Last week, the Syrian Observatory said IS had planted landmines and explosives around the ruins of Palmyra, amid reports that government forces were regaining nearby areas lost to the jihadists in May.

PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESday, JUNE 24, 2015

Page 38

International

Confederate flag: Calls grow for symbol to be retired A A

day after lawmakers in South Carolina called for the removal of the Confederate battle flag, pressure is mounting elsewhere in the US to retire symbols of Confederacy.

Efforts are under way in at least three other states to remove statesponsored Confederate tributes.

Protesters rallied in South Carolina on Tuesday to demand the immediate removal of the flag from the State House.

South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley has said the flag should come down.

The Confederate battle flag is seen by some as an icon of slavery and racism while others say the banner symbolises their heritage and history.

Virginia governor Terry McAuliffe announced on Tuesday he wants to have the flag removed from state license plates. A recent US Supreme Court decision said states can restrict such designs.

In Mississippi, lawmakers plan on rolling out legislation that would remove the Confederate symbol from the state flag, where it is prominently displayed in the upper left corner.

“We must always remember our past, but that does not mean we must let it define us,” Mississippi representative Phillip Gunn said.

“As a Christian, I believe our state’s flag has become a point of offense that needs to be removed. We need to begin having conversations about changing Mississippi’s flag.”

Former Mississippi governor

Haley Barbour said on Tuesday he is “not offended at all” by the flag.

Lawmakers in Tennessee said they need to “revisit” whether a bust of a former Confederate general and Ku Klux Klan leader should be displayed in the capitol.

The likeness of Nathan Bedford Forrest has sat in a state Senate chamber for decades.

The push was not only limited to state governments as Walmart announced on Monday that its stores would stop selling Confederate flag merchandise.

Europe and Americas

Amid calls for Confederate tributes to be removed, some have been the target of vandals.

In downtown Charleston, a statue of former politician and defender of slavery John C Calhoun was defaced with the word “racist” scrawled underneath.

The murder of nine parishioners at a historical black church in Charleston, South Carolina, last week renewed debate about the place of the flag in US culture.

The suspect, Dylann Roof, has appeared in many photos holding

the flag.

In South Carolina, the Post and Courier newspaper is asking every state lawmaker whether they support removing the flag. A majority have said they do.

Removing the flag from the South Carolina state house will not happen immediately.

The flag can only be removed by a two-thirds vote of the state legislature.

Some lawmakers in the state are calling for a delay in discussing the matter.

Protesters rallied to have the flag taken down on Tuesday

US to send military equipment to NATO allies in Europe

U

S has announced that it will spread about 250 tanks, armoured vehicles and other military equipment across six European nations, including the Baltic states, to help reassure NATO allies facing threats from Russia and armed groups.

Ash Carter, the US defence secretary, said on Tuesday that the equipment would go at least on a temporary basis to Bulgaria, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland and Romania.

“We intend to move those equipment sets around as exercises move around,” Carter said. “They are not static. Their purpose is to enable

richer training and more mobility to forces in Europe.”

A day earlier, Carter also announced that US would be contributing weapons, aircraft and forces, including commandos, to NATO’s new rapid reaction force to help Europe defend against potential Russian aggression from the east, and the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) and other armed groups from the south.

The US is also going to work with NATO’s cyber centre, located in Estonia, to help allies develop cyber defence strategies and other protections against computer-based attacks, said Carter.

He also expressed the readiness of the US to provide intelligence and surveillance capabilities, special operations forces, logistics, transport aircraft and a range of weapons support that could include bombers, fighters and ship-based missiles if requested and approved by the European countries.

Russia’s annexation of Crimea from Ukraine last year has jangled nerves in Europe, with Baltic and Nordic countries reporting an uptick in Russian military activity over the past year.

However, Russian President Vladimir Putin said earlier in June that his country was “not a threat to

the West”, ruling out a major conflict between Russia and NATO member countries.

But he said Moscow would develop “systems to overpower anti-missile defences” to ensure a stategic balance in case NATO and US beefed up their presence at Russia’s borders.

Several days later, Putin announced that his country would add more than 40 new intercontinental ballistic missiles to its nuclear arsenal this year.

Putin also noted that the military was to start testing its new longrange early warning radar intented to monitor the western direction.

Claims Denmark outsourced its torture to Lebanon

A

n Al Jazeera investigation has uncovered how three Danish Muslims ended up in some of the Middle East’s most notorious prisons following the alleged cooperation between Danish and Lebanese intelligence services.

Two of the men of Arab origin have revealed in an exclusive interview that when they refused offers to work for the Danish Security and Intelligence Service (PET), they were arrested and tortured in Lebanon.

They allege Lebanon was acting on Danish orders in a new form of

rendition - the practice of sending foreign suspects covertly to be interrogated in a country with less rigorous regulations for humane treatment - or an outsourcing of torture.

PET, which declined to be interviewed, provided a statement to Al Jazeera which said: “The Danish Security and Intelligence Service (PET) cooperates with a large number of authorities worldwide in order to protect Danish interests in Denmark and abroad.”

“However, PET can, may or will

under no circumstances aid and abet torture. PET have no further comments,” the statement said.

Lebanon, which is known to have cooperated with Western intelligence services, also denied involvement.

In an interview with Al Jazeera, the then Lebanese Minister of Interior Ziad Baroud said he never received any requests to interrogate European nationals.

However, Al Jazeera understands that the men are among dozens of Danish citizens of Arab or Muslim origin who were approached by PET

between 2001 and 2010.

Ali Ibrahim, a Lebanese-born torture victim, said in 2006 while he lived in Denmark, PET offered him incentives to cooperate but he was threatened when he refused. One of his brothers was involved with a group in Lebanon called Fatah Al Islam, which had taken control of the Palestinian refugee camp Nahr Al Bared, making him an attractive potential informer.

“The officer told me, ‘We will pay you money and you will be happy with us’,” Ibrahim said.

Armenia protest over power price hikes turns violent t least 240 protesters have been detained in the Armenian capital as police has forcefully dispersed a rally against a hike in electricity prices in the impoverished former Soviet nation.

The scope of Tuesday’s protest and its tough dispersal represented the most serious unrest Armenia has seen in years, raising concerns about political stability in the country that hosts a Russian military base and is part of a Moscow-dominated economic alliance.

Thousands of protesters angered by the planned price hikes marched on the presidential palace on Monday, accusing President Serzh Sarkisian’s government of failing to combat poverty in the landlocked Caucasus nation.

Several hundred of them remained on the streets overnight, holding a sit-in and blocking traffic.

In the early hours of Tuesday, hundreds of riot police moved in to disperse the demonstrators, using batons and water cannon to break up the rally.

Plainclothes police also beat up journalists and destroyed or confiscated their equipment, an AFP news agency correspondent reported.

The office of the prosecutor general said it had opened a probe into “hooliganism and disturbing public order”.

If found guilty, the protesters could face a fine of about $100 or a jail term of up to one year.

Armenia’s health ministry said 25 people, including 11 police, were treated for injuries including fractures.

The overnight rally was the culmination of several days of protests aimed at forcing Sarkisian to cancel the tariff hikes, with protests also taking place on Monday in several other cities.

The opposition Armenian National Congress party boycotted a parliament session in protest against the police crackdown, with other opposition MPs demanding that an extraordinary session be convened.

Sarkisian, who is serving his second term, has not yet commented on the protest.

Another protest is set to be held later on Tuesday.

Public anger has mounted over the government’s decision to hike power prices by more than 16 percent from August 1 in the country of 3.2 million, already badly hit by the economic crisis in Russia.

Armenia’s economy is hobbled by the longstanding closure of its borders with Azerbaijan and Turkey over the conflict in Nagorno-Karabakh and depends on close ties with Russia.

Russian companies control some of the most prized economic assets in Armenia, including the country’s power grid whose price hike triggered the protest.

The protest was organised by activists, who recently had succeeded in blocking a hike in bus ticket prices.

PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESday, JUNE 24, 2015

Page 39

Strange World

Nobody messes with this mother’s babies! Brave rabbit’s epic battle with a snake after catching it trying to eat her bunnies

V

iral YouTube video shows incredible tussle between a rabbit and a snake Amateur footage captured how rabbit fought the reptile off its bunnies Extraordinary fight continues as the snake frantically tries to slither away A protective mother rabbit fought off a big black snake as it was trying to devour its young - before engaging it in an epic tussle.

The amateur video of the fight between the snake and rabbit has gone viral on YouTube, being viewed more than 1,6million times.

It opens with a large black snake wrapping itself around helpless bunnies, whose fur can just been seen underneath the reptile.

Out of nowhere its mother leaps onto the snake - allowing its offspring to hop to safety - as the snake tries to defend itself.

After a moment of peace, the rabbit strikes again, attacking the snake as it slithers into the grass.

In a flurry of action the bunny rabbit and reptile are at loggerheads, as the creature hops manically around the snake which gets itself into coils trying to rebuke the attacks.

Any time the snake tries to slither to safety the rabbit is hot on its tail, following it angrily through the grass in what seems to be a residential home.

The reptile heads towards a garden wall, but as it tries to climb higher it is pulled back by the mother rabbit who engages it in another frantic tussle.

Suddenly it seems like the snake has won the upper hand - it seems to bite the rabbit, making it do a backwards somersault in the air .

But the fearless creature is back for more, biting the snake and dragging it into yet another fight before it slips free once again.

It has been suggested that the clip was filmed in America or India, but its exact setting is not known.

As the snake etchers creeps out of camera with the rabbit still in pursuit, one thing is clear - the reptile won’t be trying to wrap itself around this bunny’s babies again any time soon.

Source: DailyMail

‘Most hated man on two wheels’ strikes again as he outs bus driver for chatting on his phone AND shames a woman for texting while driving

B

us driver is facing the sack after being filmed using a phone while driving.

He was caught on camera by cyclist Dave Sherry, a bus driver himself. Father-of-five dubbed Britain’s most feared cyclist for online video posts. Mr Sherry also spotted a woman holding phone in both hands at wheel. She is seen apparently texting and with children in back without seatbelts Dubbed Britain’s ‘most hated man on two wheels’, it appears a vigilante cyclist may get another bus driver fired after filming him using a mobile phone while driving.

It comes after cyclist Dave Sherry 38, a bus driver himself, shamed a woman motorist after she was caught apparently texting while driving with her two children in the back of the car He spotted the motorist holding her phone with both hands and not on the wheel while he was cycling home in Waltham Forest, east London, last week.

Now it has emerged a bus driver who he caught using a phone behind the wheel on Saturday is facing the sack – four months after the same happened to another bus driver filmed by Mr Sherry. unnamed woman can be seen at the wheel of her blue Ford Fiesta while looking down at her phone as her children sit in their school uniforms in the back unnamed driver of the Town

Link single-decker bus, on its way from Harlow to Ongar in Essex, was caught by Dave Sherry, from Harlow, Essex, who was cycling at the time. The driver is now facing the sack Sherry (pictured), a bus driver of 13 years, says he has secured around 80 convictions after posting videos of motorists running red lights and driving dangerously to his YouTube channel The unnamed driver of the Town Link single-decker bus, on its way from Harlow to Ongar in Essex, was caught by Mr Sherry, from Harlow, Essex, who was off-

duty and cycling at the time.

Mr Sherry, a bus driver of 13 years, says he has secured around 80 convictions after posting videos of motorists running red lights and driving dangerously to his YouTube channel.

The father-of-five – dubbed Britain’s most feared cyclist for his prolific helmet-mounted camera videos – said he was horrified when he saw the bus driver chatting away on his phone as he drove.

‘As a bus driver, I clocked a mile off that he was doing something he shouldn’t be,’ said Mr Sherry, who has passed his video on to police.

‘The bus was slightly overshot

on the road.

‘When I saw the handset to his ear I was shocked.

‘He had passengers in the vehicle and a duty of care to be giving them.

Sherry – dubbed Britain’s most feared cyclist for his prolific helmet-mounted camera videos – said he was horrified when he saw the bus driver chatting away on his phone as he drove Meanwhile, Mr Sherry has also spoken of footage uploaded to the internet last Thursday which shows an unnamed woman paused in traffic before pulling away while still holding her phone.

She came to his attention after failing to pull away behind the moving traffic and he noticed she was using her phone behind the wheel Mr Sherry noticed that the two children in the back weren’t wearing seatbelts.

Metropolitan Police say the footage has not been reported to them but recommended submitting it to Roadsafe London, where necessary intelligence checks can be carried out.

A spokesperson added: ‘We will also write to the registered keeper of the vehicles warning them of the offences witnessed.

Mr Sherry - dubbed Britain’s most feared cyclist - said he looked in to see the child staring back at him and said: ‘I bet she thought “uh-oh mummy is going to get busted”’ He claims he has handed the footage to police to investigate, as well as footage he caught of a fellow bus driver two days later, also using his phone at the wheel ‘This also makes drivers aware that reports of poor driving are being brought to the attention of police, even though not witnessed by police at the time.

At the height of his notoriety Mr Sherry even took to wearing body armour while cycling after he was punched in the stomach by a furious van driver.

Source: DailyMail

Page 40

Digest

By Claire Coleman

E

ver spent hours pounding away on a treadmill, then coming to the end of the week and finding your weight hasn’t shifted at all?

Or how about eating cake in the knowledge you’d been for a long cycle ride, yet somehow piling on the pounds? You’re not alone — or going mad. You’ve simply fallen foul of something scientists are increasingly recognising: exercise often doesn’t help you lose weight.

And worse yet, there’s increasing evidence that it could even make you fatter. Just last month, in an article for the British Journal Of Sports Medicine, doctors said we have wrongly emphasised that physical activity can prevent people becoming very overweight.

The truth, they said, is that while physical activity is useful in reducing the risk of disease, it ‘does not promote weight loss’.

That false perception, they claimed, ‘is rooted in the food industry’s public relations machine, which uses tactics chillingly similar to big tobacco companies — denial, doubt and confusing the public’.

In addition, the Mayo Clinic, an eminent medical research group in the U.S., says studies ‘have demonstrated no or modest weight loss with exercise alone’ and that ‘an exercise regime is unlikely to result in short-term weight loss’.

Here are the reasons why your gym membership isn’t giving you the whittled waist you want...

YOU REWARD YOURSELF WITHOUT REALISING There are a lot of conflicting reports about the effects of exercise on appetite. We’re all familiar with the idea of going for a walk to work up an appetite, but most research seems to suggest that exercise doesn’t necessarily make us eat more. Rather, it can make us eat the wrong things.

The post-workout bar of chocolate to celebrate a job well done — or even a healthy banana — can undo all your good work without you realising.

This is known as ‘compensation’ by sports scientists: a person who exercises cancels out the calories

PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESday, JUNE 24, 2015

How exercise can make you pile on the pounds (I)

Most research seems to show that exercise doesn’t actually make us eat more (picture posed by model)

they have burned by eating more, generally as a form of self-reward.

This was demonstrated in a recent study by Arizona State University, which focused on the effects of exercise on 81 overweight women with sedentary lifestyles. The researchers asked them to participate in a 12-week exercise programme involving three treadmill sessions a week.

They were told to follow their usual diet.

The research found that while

Last month an article claimed exercise ‘does not promote weight loss’ and studies also show that a gym regime alone is ‘unlikely to result in short-term weight loss’.

they were fitter, there was no noticeable weight loss and 70 per cent of the women had piled on some fat.

While the study didn’t track the women’s eating and movement habits away from the lab, it is likely that those who gained weight began eating more and moving less when they weren’t on the treadmills — ‘probably without meaning to’, say the scientists.

Obesity researcher Zoe Harcombe believes that exercise has a psychological affect on what and how much we eat. ‘Exercise is seen as being deserving of a reward,’ she says. ‘WeightWatchers even builds the concept into their programmes, giving you extra points for exercise.

But, all too often, the treat that people reward themselves with is out of proportion to the amount of exercise they’ve done.’

Study after study has shown that we’re notoriously bad at estimating the number — and type — of calories we’ve consumed.

One, which looked at more than 5,000 adults, found the participants under-estimated their consumption of fats, oils and sweets, and overestimated how much fruit and protein they’d eaten. By the same token, most of us woefully underestimate how much exercise we need to offset indulgences.

The other issue is that, even if you did nothing, your body would be burning calories. For example, a 10 st person just lying watching TV for an hour will burn about 70 calories.

But exercise machines show you the total number of calories burnt

— what your body is expending on its own and the extra you’re burning while doing exercise.

The rowing machine may tell you you’ve burned 250 calories for an hour’s work, but you’ve actually ‘earned’ only a 180-calorie reward.

So if you reward your 20-minute

run (218 calories expended, but actually only 148 extra calories) with a latte (180 calories), you’re, in fact, taking on more calories than if you hadn’t exercised.

Multiply that on a weekly basis, and you can see how things get difficult.

STRESS IS SABOTAGING YOU We’re often told exercise is the solution to stress, but it actually releases the fight or flight hormone cortisol — also known as the stress hormone. If our bodies are functioning properly, most of this cortisol is offset by endorphins, or anti-stress chemicals, the body also produces during exercise. However, according to personal trainer Janey Holliday (makingthingseasy.com), if you’re already stressed and your hormonal system isn’t working as it should be, that excess cortisol won’t be efficiently offset, leading to even more of the stress hormone in your body.

‘Cortisol is bad news for anyone wanting to lose weight,’ says Janey.

‘Research shows that high levels of cortisol cause the body to hold onto fat and boost appetite.’

Worse yet, cortisol encourages fat to be stored around the middle, and it’s known that fat in this area is associated with an increased risk of heart disease, diabetes and breast cancer.

‘If you’re stressed and want to lose weight, you might be far better off working on improving your sleep and relaxing by doing a bit of power walking, rather than throwing yourself into a punishing routine,’ adds Janey.

Source: Dailymail.co.uk

Instead of allowing us to lose weight, it has been suggested that exercise encourages us to eat the wrong types of food.

SporT 41 Page

PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESday, JUNE 24, 2015

Copa America: Uruguay faces Chile today >>>Pg 42

sports@peoplesdailyng.com, SMS- 08142929046

Enyeama shun NFF’s disciplinary committee over Kaduna stadium comment >>>Pg 42

Don’t distract Super Eagles, Keshi tells NFF

Stephen Keshi

By Albert Akota

T

he Head coach of the Super Eagles Stephen Keshi has begged the officials of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) not to distract the team quest to qualify for the next edition of the Africa cup of Nation, saying that the whole inquiry thing is all a distraction.

The Big Boss who stormed the NFF Glasshouse headquarters in Abuja at exactly 11:54 am and was immediately ushered into the conference room where he faced Barrister Chris Green-led Disciplinary Committee in an almost two hour meeting. speaking shortly after the two

hours meeting, Keshi said the whole issue is all based on gossip, stressing he is more concerned about hos his team will qualify for Gabon.

“We thank God for the victory in Kaduna against Chad. Now I think what we should be thinking of is how prepared we are to face and win our away match against Tanzania, that should be our mission right now not what media said about keshi.

“We need to change from all this little gossip and all these stuff, we need to go ahead and forge a formidable team which includes the press, the players, NFF so that we can conquer the world and conquer African Continent. My focus right now is to prepare for

the game against Tanzania.”

Keshi however refused to comment on the outcome of the meeting, “Everything went well but NFF will talk to you on that but everything went well. Like you Guys just know I never applied for Cote d’Ivoire job.”

On whether he applied for job in Ivory Coast, the former Super Eagles captain swiftly answered “No, My name is in almost every Nation. Should i take countries like Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania to court. It happens to every coach, is not a big deal.”

It would be recalled that NFF and Keshi have been at apparent running battle after his contract expired last year, a situation that delayed his contract renewal, one

year after.

However, Keshi said that the allegation that he applied for the job of coaching Ivory Coast senior national team, the Elephants, was the work of his enemies who want him sacked from his current job.

The news broke when the Federation Ivoirienne de Football, FIF, published a list of candidates that applied for the vacant managerial post in which Keshi’s name was listed as one of the only two Africans who applied for the job.

Keshi, however, said that the allegation is purely the work of his detractors who want to divide and conquer, all in the bid to give the coaching job to their own candidate.

“They want to talk to me but let me talk to them first; I’m tired of all these Keshi do this Keshi do that. If they want to give the job to somebody else like they are planning, let them go ahead but they should stop destroying my name everywhere,” he said.

The coach is scheduled to appear before a disciplinary committee of Nigeria Football Federation, NFF, to explain how his name was mentioned among the applicants for Ivory Coast job.

Keshi signed a new contract in April to resume his role as gaffer of the Eagles after guiding the team to winning the 2013 AFCON title in South Africa and a second round finish at the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil.

PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESday, JUNE 24, 2015

PAGE 42

PUBLIC NOTICE HEROES OF GRACE CHURCH

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1.PASTOR PIUS BEN-AMO - (PRESIDENT/SENIOR PASTOR) 2.PROPHETESS (MRS) UFUOMA MERCY BEN-AMO - (VICE PRESIDENT/ SENIOR PASTOR) 3. ATEHA EFETOBORE HENRY - (GENERAL SECRETARY) 4. ONI EFE JACOBS - (FINANCIAL SECRETARY/TREASURER) 5. EVANGELIST PRINCE OSAMUYIMEN EDIGIN - (MEMBER) THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE: 1. COMMISIONED TO BEARING THE GOSPEL OF CHRIST AND HIS KINGDOM TO THE CHRISTLESS SOULS AND THE NATIONS OF THE WORLD. 2. HEALINGS,TEACHING DELIVERANCE TO THE CAPTIVES,THE BROKENHEARTED AND THE DYING PEOPLE. 3.WINNING AND EQUIPING FOR THE WORK OF THE MINISTRY. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUYI IRONSI STREET PMB 198, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28TH DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION. SIGNED: BARR. ELIZABERTH OTUOKPAIKHIAN 08052718873

PUBLIC NOTICE 21ST CENTURY CRUSADERS FOR JUSTICE INITIATIVE

PUBLIC NOTICE IFESOWAPO PROGRESSIVE ASSOCIATION OF CARPENTERS

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED FOUNDATION HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1,OLUYI AMOS TAIWO 2,OLANIRAN MOSES 3, IBRAHIM LAWAL 4 ABIODUN OLAGOKE KABIRU 5,ADEISA JIMOH USMAN 6,CLEMENT ELIJAH 7,ADENIYI LANRE 8,AYANTOYE SEGUN

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1, ADAM SARAH MOHAMMED 2, DAURA IMRANA HABU - SECRETARY 3,DAURA FAUZIA ABU 4, MOHAMMED FATIMA ADO 5, UMAR ABASHE SAIDU 6, UMAR ZAHRAU IDRIS - CHAIRPERSON 7, AMINU MOHAMMED AYAMA 8, YUSUF MOHAMMED AHMED

THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE:

THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE:

ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUYI IRONSI STREET PMB 198, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28TH DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION. SIGNED:SECRETARY

ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUYI IRONSI STREET PMB 198, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28TH DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION. SIGNED: PRESENTER, BARR. MOHAMMED B. ATTAHIRU

1) TO PROMOTE ECONOMIC INTEREST OF ITS MEMBERS. 2) TO ASSIST THE ASSOCIATION’s MEMBERS TO OBTAIN LOAN FOR THE PURPOSE OF UPLIFTMENT OF THEIR BUSINESSES.

PUBLIC NOTICE

UJADU RURAL DISCIPLESHIP MISSION

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1)ADEDOTUN ADELADAN 2)AYOOLA ADEDAPO SIKUADE 3)PROF. OLUYELE A. AKINKUGBE 4)OLUSHOLA FABIYI 5)FESTUS IRABOR

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1)EVANG. JOSEPH LABIJA 2) MRS ABIGAIL LABIJA 3) PST. SOLOMON ADEJOH 4) BRO FRIDAY OCHOLI 5) MRS LUCY AMEH

THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE:

THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE: 1. TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF JESUS CHRIST.

ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUYI IRONSI STREET PMB 198, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28TH DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION. SIGNED: BY BARR VICTOR UGBEDE IDU.

PUBLIC NOTICE HOLYGHOST UPPERROOM APOSTOLIC MINISTRY

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED MINISTRY HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1.LAWRENCE AYODELE BONIFACE 2.LAWRENCE MARGARET 3.OJIEH FRANCA 4.AWOYEMI SEGUN SOLOMON THE AIM AND OBJECTIVE:

1. TO PROPAGATE THE GOSPEL OF JESUS CHRIST. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUYI IRONSI STREET PMB 198, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28TH DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION. SIGNED:FUNMI AWOLEYE 08062302724

PUBLIC NOTICE

PECULIAR DISCIPLES MINISTRY

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED MINISTRY HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1.PASTOR ALEXANDER ADEBUSUYI OGUNDIPE 2.MR. OLAYINKA MANOAH OLATUNDUN 3.MRS. MARGARET OSSAI OHENHEN 4.PASTOR SAMASON OLUKAYODE ALIYU 5.MR. SAMSON BABATUNDE ADEBAYO 6.MRS. REMI MARY OLATUNDUN 7.MR. TEMITOPE OLANIPEKUN YOOSUF 8.PROPHET OLUWOLE LAWRENCE EJALONIBU 9.MR. ADURA TUNDUN 10.PASTOR OLUFEMI ADEOLU AKINFENWA

ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUYI IRONSI STREET PMB 198, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28TH DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION. SIGNED: VICTOR UGBEDE IDU ESQ.

PUBLIC NOTICE PAN AFRICAN GIRL CHILD EDUCATION FOUNDATION THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED FOUNDATION HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1.DR. EKPENYONG EDET BASSEY 2.DR. DAN MOU 3.MRS. HAUWA AHMADU 4.MR. ABRAHAM KWAGHFAN 5.MRS. DANJUMA IDOWU 6.MISS UMUKORO JULIET AMAJU 7.MISS MALIZE PHILOMINA CHISOM 8.MISS ANTHONIA ABANG THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE:

1.TO ADVOCATE FOR GIRL CHILD EDUCATION IN AFRICA THROUGH PUBLIC SENSITIZATION CAMPAIGN. 2.TO ENCOURAGE AND FACILITATE BOTH NATIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL EDUCATIONAL EXCHANGE PROGRAMMES FOR STUDENTS, TO AID IN THE TRANSFER OF KNOWLEDGE, WITH SPECIAL FOCUS ON GIRL CHILD. 3.TO ORGANIZE BOTH LOCAL AND INTERNATIONAL EXCURSIONS, SPORTING COMPETITIONS AND OTHER EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES TO REJUVENATE THE MENTAL ALERTNESS OF STUDENTS. 4.TO ORGANIZE CONFERENCES, SEMINARS, SYMPOSIUMS, DEBATES, WORKSHOPS, AND QUIZ COMPETITIONS FOR STUDENTS TO PROMOTE EDUCATIONAL EXCELLENCE. 5.TO PUBLISH BOOKS, JOURNALS, MAGAZINES AND OTHER EDUCATIONAL MATERIALS IN SUPPORT OF GIRL CHILD EDUCATION IN AFRICA.

6.TO WORK IN PARTNERSHIP WITH OTHER ORGANIZATIONS HAVING THE SAME AIMS IN REALIZATION OF THE OVERALL VISION AND MISSION OF THIS FOUNDATION.

ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRARGENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUYI IRONSI STREET PMB 198, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28TH DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION. SIGNED:BARR. GYANG NYAM EZEKIEL

08065322981

PUBLIC NOTICE

ASSOCIATION OF GAS DEALERS, BENUE

1.TO ASSIST THE LESS PRIVILEGE PEOPLE IN THE SOCIETY, TO ASSIST YOUNG GIRLS TO BECOME SELF EMPLOYED.

PUBLIC NOTICE UPLIFTING YOUTHS THROUGH AGRICULTURE CENTRE THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1.AFOMA CLARA ADIGWE - CHAIRMAN 2.MOHAMMED BALA ADAMU - SECRETARY 3.FLORENCE OSIJI - MEMBER 4.ANNABEL URUAKPA - MEMBER 5.SAMUEL ADE OLUKUNLE AKITUNDE - MEMBER 6.OGBONNA EMMANUEL AZUIKPE - MEMBER 7.ABDULLAHI AMMANI - MEMBER 8.LORETTA NGOZI NWAJE - MEMBER 9.RICHIE NNAMDI ADIGWE - MEMBER 10.EDWARD OKELEKE - MEMBER THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE: 1.TO ENCOURAGE AND EMPOWER YOUTHS TO EMBRANCE AND PRATICE AGRICULTURE AS A MEANS OF LIVELIHOOD. 2.TO PROMOTE THE PROCESSING OF AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS BY RURAL PEOPLE AND THE DEVELOPMENT OF AGRO-BASED ENTERPRISES BY YOUTHS. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUYI IRONSI STREET PMB 198, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28TH DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION. SIGNED: BARR. YETUNDE ATANDA 07031025158

PUBLIC NOTICE HUMAN CAPACITY, ENTERPRENEURSHIP AND LEADERSHIP MATTERS INITIATIVE THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED INITIATIVE HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1.TEMITOPE O. E. SAMSON 2.ABAYOMI A. BELLO 3.IWADOLA O. SAMSON 4.OLAYINKA ESAN 5.OLUDARE KOLAWOLE THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE: 1.TO EMPOWER OLD AND NEW ENTERPRENEURS IN INNOVATIVE IDEAS AND TRENDS THAT ENHANCE HUMAN CAPACITY AND BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT. 2.TO EMPOWER YOUTHS WITH LEADERSHIP SKILLS THAT PREPARE THEM FOR FUTURE LEADERSHIP. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUYI IRONSI STREET PMB 198, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28TH DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION. SIGNED: SECRETARY

PUBLIC NOTICE

SESAME SQUARE NIGERIA FOUNDATION

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED ASSOCIATION HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED FOUNDATION HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT, 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. ELDER REUBEN OKENWA - CHAIRMAN 2. MR. DANIEL ATTAH - SECRETARY 3. MR. BONIFACE ANIGOR - TREASURER 4.MR. JAMES AGU NWOGA - FINANCE SEC. 5. MR. JOHN OKENWA - PROVOST

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. AYOBISI APEKE OSUNTUSA 2. ABIOLA OLATUNDE SAMUEL 3. AGATHA OGOMA NWAJAGU 4. BELYNDA LOVETH AGU

THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE: 1.TO PROMOTE AND SUPPORT THE EVANGELICAL AND WELFARE PROGRAMME OF CHERUBIM AND SERAPHIM MOVEMENT CHURCH (CENTRE FOR DELIVERANCE THROUGH EVANGELISM) IN PARTICULAR. 2.TO BE THE CHANNEL OF ESTABLISHING MODEL CHAPELS TO BE KNOWN AS PECULIAR DISCIPLES CHAPEL ALL ROUND THE WORLD SO THAT CONVERTS TO CHRISTIANITY CAN BE TAUGHT THE HOLY SCRIPTURE UNTO MATURITY. 3.TO SUPPORT EVERY CHRISTIAN MINISTRY WITH THE OBJECT OF WINNING SOULS FOR GOD AND BUILDING MATURITY IN CHRIST. 4.TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF PEACE AND DELIVERANCE OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST IN ALL PARTS OF NIGERIA AND AROUND THE GLOBE.

THE AIM AND OBJECTIVE: 1.TO FOSTER UNITY AMONG MEMBERS.

ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRARGENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUYI IRONSI STREET PMB 198, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28TH DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION.

SIGNED: SECRETARY

SIGNED: SECRETARY

AL MARA’A FOUNDATION

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED ASSOCIATION HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED INITIATIVE HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

1.PROMOTE THE COURSE OF JUSTICE IN THE SOCIETY. 2. FIGHT AGAINST INJUSTICE IN THE SOCIETY. 3. PROMOTE SOCIAL JUSTICE AND EQUALITY AMONG MEMBERS OF THE SOCIETY.

PUBLIC NOTICE

ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUYI IRONSI STREET PMB 198, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28TH DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION.

AIM AND OBJECTIVES: 1. TO ENCOURAGE AND PROMOTE PRE-SCHOOL READINESS, EARLY CHILD EDUCATION, HEALTH, ENVIRONMENTAL AND EMOTIONAL WELL-BEING AMONG INDIGENT CHILDREN AND FAMILIES TO ENABLE THEM COMPETE WITH THEIR PEERS GLOBALLY ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED: LONA AAKO-ADEKWU DIEGBE, DIEGBE & ASSOCIATES

PAGE 43

PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESday, JUNE 24, 2015

PUBLIC NOTICE

THE AMAZING GOSPEL TRUTH AND LIFE MINISTRY

PUBLIC NOTICE

LEGAL VOICE AND SOCIAL ADVOCACY INITIATIVE

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED MINISTRY HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED INITIATIVE HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

THE TRUSTEE ARE: 1. REVEREND OGEDENGBE ABIDEMI OLUGBENGA 2. MRS OGEDENGBE MARY BOSEDE 3. PASTOR ADANLAWO SUNDAY OLUMUYIWA 4. MRS OLAFUSI CHRISTIANAH OPEYEMI

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1.BARRISTER ELEOJO ATAWODI 2.BARRISTER INA AROME 3.BARRISTER EDIRIN ODIBO 4.BARRISTER EMIKE JESSICA IMUEKEMHE

THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE: 1. TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF JESUS CHRIST TO THE WHOLE WORLD. 2. TO ASSIST MEMBERS MORALLY AND FINANCIALLY WITHIN THE LIMITS OF ITS ABILITY. 3. TO WIN SOUL FOR CHRIST. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUYI IRONSI STREET PMB 198, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28TH DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION. SIGNED:

BY REVEREND, OGEDENGBE ABIDEMI OLUGBENGA.

PUBLIC NOTICE

COUPLES FLOURISH INT’L FOUNDATION

THE AIM AND OBJECTIVE:

1.TO PROVIDE FREE LEGAL ADVICE AND REPRESENTATION FOR ALL THOSE WHO CANNOT AFFORD IT. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUYI IRONSI STREET PMB 198, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28TH DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION. SIGNED:SECRETARY

PUBLIC NOTICE NATONG YOUTH DEVELOPMENT & IMPACT INITIATIVE

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED FOUNDATION HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED INITIATIVE HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1 PASTOR. ABRAHAM ADEYEMI OLOYEDE - PRESIDENT 2 MRS ORITSE-TSEGBEMI OKIEMUTE OLOYEDE.SECRETARY 3 BARR ODITEGBA OVIE FRANK

TRUSTEES: 1. TONGRYANG SILAS PANTU 2. DR. AJANG MAGAJI 3. STEPHEN OMONOJU 4. MR. INNOCENT USAR 5. DABO DAVURUK PANTU

THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE: 1. TO PROMOTE GODLY MASSIAGES. 2. TO FOSTER GODLY RELATIONSIP AMONG COUPLES.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1. TO ASSIST JOBLESS YOUTHS ESPECIALLY SCHOOL LEAVERS WHO UNDERGO MENTORSHIP PROGRAMME TO ACCESS LOANS FROM BANKS AND OTHER FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE TO START UP VENTURES OF THEIR OWN AND TO TEACH THEM ON USE OF MONEY. 2. TO PROMOTE UNITY AND UNDERSTANDING OF OUR CULTURE BY REORIENTATION FOR CULTURAL PROMOTION.

ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUYI IRONSI STREET PMB 198, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28TH DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION.

ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL. CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET. PMB 198, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28TH DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION

PUBLIC NOTICE

TRIUMPHANT CROSS BELIEVERS CHURCH

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED CHURCH HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. PASTOR NICHOLAS O. IBEZIM - CHAIRMAN 2. DEACON LEKAN ADETIMEHIM - SECRETARY 3. REV. MOYE FATUNMBI 4. REV. ELIJAH EMMANUEL EDISON 5. MRS. GRACE OREMICHEN 6. MRS. CHINYEREM ADENIJI 7. PASTOR ISRAEL EZEAGWULA THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE: 1. TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUYI IRONSI STREET PMB 198, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28TH DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION. SIGNED: SECRETARY

PUBLIC NOTICE

THE MUSICAL SOCIETY OF NIGERIA

THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY INFORMED THAT THE ABOVE NAMED SOCIETY HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, ABUJA FOR CHANGE OF TRUSTEES UNDER PART ‘C’ OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT OF 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. AYO ROSIJI - REMOVED/DECEASED 2. MABEL OYE WILLIAMS - REMOVED/DECEASED 3. CHRISTOPHER BOWMAN - REMOVED 4. CHRISTOPHER OLAKANMI OYESIKU - REMOVED 5. HELEN TRAVERS - REMOVED 6. WALTER HAGG -REMOVED 7. AKINTOLA WILLIAMS -RETAINED 8. LOUIS NNAMDI MBANEFO - RETAINED 9. RASHEED GBADAMOSI - RETAINED 10. OTO LIJADU - RETAINED 11. OLGA MILLER - RETAINED 12. FRANCESCA YETUNDE EMMANUEL - RETAINED THE NEW TRUSTEES: 1. CHIEF FEMI ADENIYI-WILLIAMS - NEWLY APPOINTED 2. MR.ADEYEMI AKISANYA - NEWLY APPOINTED 3. MR.KITOYIIBARE-AKINSAN - NEWLY APPOINTED AIMS AND OBJECTIVES REMAIN THE SAME ANY OBJECTION TO THIS APPLICATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL OF THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT,

SIGNED: SECRETARY

SIGNED: SECRETARY

OFF AGUIYIIRONSI STREET, MAITAMA, ABUJA, WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED: FEMI OLAOYE ADEYEMI-AKISANYA ASSOCIATES OKOI ARIKPO HOUSE (5TH FLOOR) 5, IDOWU TAYLOR STREET, VICTORIA ISLAND, LAGOS

CHANGE OF NAME I formerly known as mrs. riskuji umar now wish to be known and address as mrs riskuji moallayidi.all former documents remain valid. The general publuc should please take note.

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

CHANGE OF NAME I formerly known as miss. shaibu faith ovayi now wish to be known and address as mrs fath ovayi iheakam.all former documents remain valid. The general publuc should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME I formerly known as SANI SHEHU MOHAMMED MAIKATANGA now wish to be known and address as SANI SHEHU.all former documents remain valid. The general publuc should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME I formerly known as RABI SAHABI TUNGAR KWANGI now wish to be known and addressed as RABI ABUBAKAR MATSERI all former documents remain valid, the general public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

I formerly known as MISS GANIYAT ADENIKE SALIMONU now wish to be known and addressed as MRS GANIYAT ADENIKE ADEJUMO all former documents remain valid , the general public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

I formerly known as MISS ILOEGBUEM HELEN now wish to be known and addressed as MRS EMMANUEL HELEN all former documents remain valid, the general public should please take note.

ISOKO DEVELOMENT UNION ABUJA BRANCH

GLOBAL; YOUTH SKILLS ACQUISITION AND POVERTY ERADICATION ORGANISATION

THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY NOTIFY THAT THE ABOVE NAMED MINISTRY HAS APPLIED TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION ABUJA FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART “C” OF COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT 1990.

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED ORGANISATION HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT, 1990

TRUSTEES ARE: 1. LUCKY OGHENEKOME OTAME ACA, CFE 2. BARR. FELIX ONOVO OGBAUDU, AIG (RTD) MON, MNI 3. ONOVIRAKPO OGHENERIE EMONENA 4. ELDER MOSES AKPOTABOR 5. LUCKY BERNARD OGHOGHO OWRAIGBO 6. DAVID UMUENI 7. MOSES OTOBO

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. OZEGBE EMMANUEL CHUKS 2. PROF. ARTUUR UME 3. NJIGHA PRAISE HGOZI 4. SEGUNOLADEJO 5. MOSES OGBEMUDIA OSEMWENJIE 6. ABIOLA LATHE LFAT OPADOTUN 7. DR. ISERE JOSEPH 8. ODICHE IWEOBI MONDAY 9. MBAH ANTHONIA C.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVE 1. TO FOSTER UNITY AMONG MEMBERS. ANY OBJECTION TO THE REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYISTREET, MAITAMA, ABUJA, WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGN SECRETARY

PUBLIC NOTICE

GOODLUCK PEACE AND EQUITY FOUNDATION

THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY NOTIFIED 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 TRUSTEE ARE: 1. SENATOR SMART ADEYEMI 2. BABATUNDE OLALERE GBADAMOSI 3. OLADELE JOHN NIHI 4. GEOFREYCHUKUNEKU NWAIKU 5. IFEAKANWA JENNIFER CHUKUNEKU 6. GLORIA NWEKE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

1. TO SENSITIZE THE YOUTHS, CITIZENS AND LEADERS ON THE IMPERATIVES AND BENEFITS OF BEING PEACE AGENTS. 2. TO PROMOTE PEACEFUL CO-EXISTENCE. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420 TIGRIS CRESCENT, AGUYIIRONSI STREET, MAITAMA ABUJA, WITHIN 28 DAYS FROM THE DATE OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED: IKECHUKWU IKOGWE, ESQ SOLICITOR 08035962751

THE AIM AND OBJECTIVES:

1. FOR THE PROMOTION OF SKILL AND POVERTY ERADICATION IN THE SOCIETY. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED: BARR. MBAH ANTHONIA; 08035428414

PUBLIC NOTICE

FAMILY SUCCOUR AND UPLIFTMENT FOUNDATION

This is to inform the general public that the above named FOUNDATION has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under Part C of the Companies and Allied Matters Act, 1990 THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Nweze Augustina Rachel - Chairman 2. Nweze Convenant Osborn Obi Dave- Secretary 3. Nweze King David Chitulugo - Member 4. Nweze Umahi Angel ShellaOjiugo - Member AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1. All round family support.

2. Empowerment of the masses.

3. Entrepreneurship development.

Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the Registrar-General, Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420, Tigris Crescent, Off AguiyiIronsi Street, Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

Signed: SECRETARY

PAGE 44

PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESday, JUNE 24, 2015

Sport

Enyeama shuns NFF’s disciplinary committee over Kaduna stadium comment

By Albert Akota

S

uper Eagle’s captain, Vincent Enyeama yesterday was to appear before the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) Organising and Disciplinary Committee to defend himself over his purported comment before Eagles’ African Cup of Nations qualifier match with Chad fortnight ago at the Ahmedu Bello Stadium, Kaduna.

The Lille of France goalkeeper was quoted to have allayed security fears in Kaduna ahead of the match following the insecurity situation in the northern part of the country.

Irked by his suggestion for possible change of venue, NFF Officials queried the France-based Goal keeper who upon receiving the letter torn it, though he subsequently apologized according to media reports.

Not still satisfied by his supposed apology, NFF summoned him but the Lille of France shot stopper rebuffed their call.

The Amaju Pinnick-led NFF had also fined one of the key member of the Super Eagles’ squad, Ogenyi Onazi $5000 following his on-the-pitch behavior which earned him red card and subsequent match ban from Confederation African Football, CAF.

NFF frees Alampasu

Dele Alampasu

By Albert Akota

T

he Players’ Status/ Arbitration Committee of Nigeria Football Federation has waded in to save the career of junior international goalkeeper Dele Alampasu, by giving him “unconditional clearance to play for a club of his choice.”

At its meeting in Abuja, the Committee, headed by NFF Executive Committee member, Alhaji Babagana Kalli, ruled that the contracts that the player, who was in the Nigeria U-20 squad to

the just-ended FIFA U-20 World Cup in New Zealand, signed with both Future Stars Academy, Lagos and Football College, Abuja are not binding as he signed as a minor.

“Future Stars Academy, Lagos and Football College, Abuja will only be entitled to training compensation/solidarity mechanism in accordance with the FIFA Regulations on Players’ Status and Transfer, 2014,” ruled the committee.

The career of the long-limbed goaltender, who was selected as the Best Goalkeeper of the 2013 FIFA U-17 World Cup that Nigeria

won in the United Arab Emirates, had been on hold as both Future Stars and Football College claimed ownership.

At the same meeting, the Committee ruled that Nigeria National League club, Crown FC of Ogbomosho must pay its former General Manager, Alhaji Fatai Olayinka, the sum of N1,104,000 only before the end of June 2015, being the club’s indebtedness to Olayinka.

Both parties are also to pay five per cent of the amount to the NFF Players’ Status/Arbitration Committee.

Also at its meeting, the Committee ordered Mighty Jets FC of Jos to pay Coach Bernard Ogbe the sum of N3,900,000 before the end of June 2015, being the amount the club is owing him as salary for six months. Both parties are also to pay five per cent of the amount to the Committee.

Failure of Crown FC and Mighty Jets FC to pay their indebtedness before the end of the month will attract appropriate sanctions, to be determined by the Players’ Status/Arbitration Committee.

Aside Babagana Kalli, other members present at the meeting were Jude Anyadufu, Dahiru Sadi and Austin Popo, as well as Nasiru Jibril (secretary) and Joshua Onoja (assistant secretary).

Vincent Enyeama

Copa America: Uruguay faces Chile today

CAF picks Kenyan officials for Dream Team, Congo clash

By Albert Akota

T

he Confederation of African Football has picked Kenyan official Anthony Ogwayo as Referee for the African U-23 Championship qualifier between Nigeria and Congo, scheduled for Sunday, July 19 at the National Stadium, Abuja.

Anthony Ogwayo will be accompanied by countrymen Gilbert Cheruiyot (Assistant Referee 1), Joshua Achila (Assistant Referee 2) and Andrew Juma Otieno (Reserve Referee).

CAF has also picked Alim Konate Aboubakar from Cameroon as Match Commissioner.

For the return leg billed for the weekend of August 2 in Pointe Noire, CAF has appointed Egyptian match officials led by Mohamed Marouf (Referee). Compatriots Mahmoud Ahmed Abo El Regal (Assistant Referee 1), Samir Gamal Saad (Assistant Referee 2) and Mahmoud Zakria El Banna (Reserve Referee) will accompany him.

Bernard Mfubusa from Burundi will be the Match Commissioner.

Alexis Sanchez

T Match officials

he most successful team in the history of the Copa America take on the most impressive side from the first round when Uruguay face Chile in the first quarterfinal today.

The Uruguayans are the defending champions and have won the competition 15 times more than Argentina or Brazil.

Hosts Chile have never won it but finished unbeaten and top of Group A having scored 10 goals in their opening three matches twice as many as any other side in the competition.

“The statistics are clear. Chile played very well in the group stage,” their midfielder Marcelo Diaz said.

“So, yes, I agree that Chile were the best team in the group stage but that’s over now... Now we start the games of life and death.”

The winners of today’s tie in Santiago will face either Peru or Bolivia who meet in the southern city of Temuco on Thursday, while, on the other side of the draw, Argentina and Brazil could be heading for a semifinal showdown.

PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESday, JUNE 24, 2015

PUBLIC NOTICE

VICTORIOUS FAMILY OF CHRIST ADONAI ASSEMBLY

THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT THE ABOVE NAMED MINISTRY,WITH ADDRESS NO. 1, ONWUDEGU STREET, OFF UWAGBOE STREET, UGBOWO,BENIN CITY, 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. CHUKWUNEKE PST WILLIAMS OBIKEZIE (CLERGY) 2. IKHARO AIMS SHADRACH (BUSINESSMAN) 3. OGIERIAKHI MONDAY OSARET (PUBLIC SERVANT) 4. CHUKWUNEKE MAGDALENE IZO (ARTISAN) AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1. TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF CHRIST 2. TO SERVE AS A PLACE OF WORSHIP FOR BELIEVERS IN CHRIST JESUS 3. TO EMBARK ON PLANTING, ESTABLISHMENT AND CONTROL OF BRANCHES, BIBLE SCHOOL OR COLLEGES FOR THE TRAINING OF MINISTERS, MISSIONARIES,MINISTRY LEADERS. ANY OBJECTION TO THE REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420 TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, MAITAMA ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGN: G. N EBIZUGBE (Esq), 08023382013, 07055494828

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THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY INFORMED THAT THE ABOVE NAMED ASSOCIATION 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. SAMAILA SHEHU 2. MURTALA SHETIMA 3. UMAR LADAN 4. NASIRU IMAM 5. JIBRIN MOHAMMED AIMS AND OBJECTIVES:

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PAGE 45

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K’ANYI MEZIE ALA IGBO INITIATIVE THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY INFORMED THAT THE ABOVE NAMED INITIATIVE 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. OBINNA OLERIBE – PRESIDENT 2. IKEMEFULA ANUCHAUKA – SECRETARY 3. TONY OJOBO 4. GODWIN OKAFOR 5. SAMUEL OKAFOR 6. ONYEKA UDE 7. CHISOM ONYENZE 8. UCHENDU OKPALA 9. BENJAMIN ANYENE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1.TO FOSTER UNITY AND BROTHERLINESS AMONGST THE IGBO PEOPLE. 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

WINNERS CITY OF RECONCILIATION MINISTRY

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1. TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF JESUS CHRIST. 2. TO SERVE AS A PLACE OF WORSHIP FOR BELIEVERS IN CHRIST JESUS.

SIGNED: PST. IPIDEI CLIFFORD GEN. OVERSEER

SIGNED: BARR. DOROTHY UMOH 08172872214

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1.YVONNE UBEKU POPOOLA 2.ITUAH OLAJIDE IGHODALO 3.HRM OBA DOKUN THOMPSON

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1.PASTOR ORIBHABOR SYLVESTER 2.PASTOR (MRS) ORIBHABOR EUNICE 3.MR OKODUGHA ABEL 4.MR. ARETEH JEROME 5.MR. OFEIMU FREDRICK

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1.PASTOR OLUOKUN OLUGBENGA ADEGOKE 2.PASTOR (MRS) OLUOKUN MARY ABOSEDE 3.PASTOR ISIDAHOMEN BONIFACE EGBO 4.DEACONESS OJOAWO ABIGAIL OLUFUNMILAYO 5.OLANIPEKUN OLAKUNLE OLASOJI THE AIM AND OBJECTIVE: 1.TO PREACH AND PROPAGATE THE GOSPEL OF OUR LORD AND SAVIOUR JESUS CHRIST.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1. TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF JESUS CHRIST. 2. TO SERVE AS A PLACE OF WORSHIP FOR BELIEVERS IN CHRIST JESUS. 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.

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

CROSS OF CALVARY’S GRACE 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.

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED FOUNDATION HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

PUBLIC NOTICE ZION INTERNATIONAL GOSPEL CENTRE

PUBLIC NOTICE

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. PST. MAY BROTHER DICKSON - PRESIDENT 2. PST. OPORO IBOH GRANT - SEC. GEN 3. EVANG. MUBOLA DICKSON - VICE PRESIDENT 4. ELDER OTARAKU JONATHAN OYE - TREASURER 5. ELDER GEORGE DISEPH - FIN SEC 6. EVANG. OPORO DAIMA IBOH GRANT - MEMBER 7. EVANG. IKILIGHI PATRICIA KUBI - MEMBER 8. PST. EKPELU WAIT FINEFACE - MEMBER 9. PST. IGENEWARI THANKGOD AKARI - MEMBER

DIVINE ASSURANCE FAITH CHRISTIAN ASSEMBLY INT’L

SIGNED: SECRETARY

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES:

1. TO FOSTER UNITY AMONG IMO WOMEN LIVING IN NORTHERN NIGERIA. 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. IKEMEFULA ANUCHAUKA

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. PST. IPIDEI CLIFFORD – GEN. OVERSEER 2. MRS IPIDEI OCHUKO - SECRETARY 3. MRS EMMANUEL MATINA - FIN SEC 4. ALFRED QUEEN - TREASURER 5. ALADTHE CHRISTOPHER - HEAD USHER 6. SERGEANT JOSEPH - MEN’S LEADER

YVONNE UBEKU FOUNDATION FOR PROMOTION OF WOMEN AND CHILDREN’S RIGHTS

ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUYI IRONSI STREET PMB 198, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28TH DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. GETRUDE ALUKAOGU – PRESIDENT 2. STELLA VIN IGWILO - SECRETARY 3. CLEMENTINA NJOKU 4. NGOZI CHUKWU 5. FIDELIA UZOUKWU 6. CHIOMA AKUCHIE 7. NGOZI NWOSU

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

1.TO PROMOTE WOMEN AND CHILDREN’S RIGHTS.

THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY INFORMED THAT THE ABOVE NAMED ASSOCIATION HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART “C” OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT 1 OF 1990.

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

THE AIM AND OBJECTIVE:

PUBLIC NOTICE

ASSOCIATION OF IMO WOMEN IN NORTHERN NIGERIA

THE AIM AND OBJECTIVE:

1.TO WIN SOULS FOR OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUYI IRONSI STREET PMB 198, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28TH DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION. SIGNED:SECRETARY

PUBLIC NOTICE

UMUNNA TRANSPORTERS WELFARE ASSOCIATION

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED ASSOCIATION HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1.MR. UDECHUKWU FRIDAY 2.MR. OGBANTA IZUCHUKWU 3.MR. EKENE NNOKO 4.MR. NWABEZE AUGUSTIN 5.MR. OBASI CHINEDU THE AIM AND OBJECTIVE: 1.TO ADVANCE THE SOCIO-ECONOMIC 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, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28TH DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION.

ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUYI IRONSI STREET PMB 198, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28TH DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION.

SIGNED:BARR. NGOZI OHIAGU 08039445805

SIGNED:EMEKA C. OKPARA

PUBLIC NOTICE GOD MISSION WORSHIP HOUSE

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1.MR WISDOM AZUBUGHA - PASTOR 2.MRS ABIEYUWA LAZARUS - PASTOR 3.MISS LAURA IFEOMA DOMINIC THE AIM AND OBJECTIVE:

1.TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUYI IRONSI STREET PMB 198, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28TH DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION. SIGNED: SECRETARY

PUBLIC NOTICE KABBA UNIFIED PEOPLES ASSOCIATION

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED ASSOCIATION HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1.ELDER KIRIN JOSEPH AKINWALE 2.BARR. OLORUNMOTITO GEORGE DADA 3.MR. EYIMIFE DADA 4.DEACONESS HELEN OLUWAFEMI 5.MRS. TITILAYO RAPHAEL 6.MR. FEMI JOHN EBOYOMI THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE:

1.TO PROMOTE UNITY AMONG MEMBERS. 2.TO PROTECT THE INTEREST 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, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28TH DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION. SIGNED: SECRETARY

PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESday, JUNE 24, 2015

PAGE 46

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

FRIENDS OF UROLOGU USMAN DANFODIYO UNIVERSITY TEACHING HOSPITAL ASSOCIATION SOKOTO

YOUTHS INITIATIVE AGAINST UNLAWFUL EMIGRATION

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED ASSOCIATION HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT, 1990 THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. PROF. ISMA’ILA ARZUKA MUNGADI - CHAIRMAN 2. DR. AGWU NGWOBIA PETER - SECRETARY 3. ALIYU BALA USMAN DAURA 4. JUSTICE SANI ADAMU 5. BISHOP MATHEW KUKKAH PETER 6. HUSSAINI SANI KATSINA 7. JAMEELU HASSAN 8. DR. MAIRO HASSAN 9. ALH. SANI SOKOTO 10. USMAN SANUSI BURMI THE AIM AND OBJECTIVES 1. TO PROVIDE MORAL, FINANCIAL AND MATERIAL SUPPORT FOR THE OROLOGY UNIT, USMAN DANFODIYO UNIVERSITY TEACHING HOSPITAL SOKOTO, HEREBY REFERRED TO AS THE UNIT. 2. TO PROVIDE SUPPORT TOWARDS THE CARE OF THE POOR AND INDIGENT PATIENTS. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYIIRONSI STREET, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED: BARR. SAFIYA K. A. BELLO 1ST AVENUE, BEULAH ESTATE, ANDI-KHAN ESTATE, GWARINPA, ABUJA 08064571395

PUBLIC NOTICE

GLOBAL HUMANITARIAN MISSIONARIES FOUNDATION

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED INITIATIVE HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION FOR ALTERATION OF CONSTITUTION, APPOINTMENT OF ADDITIONAL TRUSTEES AND CTC OF CERTIFICATE UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT, 1990

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. OLADELE JOHN NIHI 2. IFEY CHUKWUNEKU 3. ADETAYO OPEYEMI DUKE 4. GLORIA NWEKE 5. TUNJI JOHN ASAOLU

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: MUHAMMAD FAIZ ABDULAZEEZ, ESQ 08036243840

SIGNED: GATTA BOLO 08033697681

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

JESUS LOVE AND SALVATION MISSION

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. REV. SISTER; FLOURENCE OGOMA OKORO 2. REV. FR. CHRISTOPHER WILFRED OSSI 3. REV. FR. CLETUS EHIEM 4. AMB. CECILIA UZOKAEMEJULU 5. MR. JULIUS OKORO THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE:

1. TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST.

LOSS OF DOCUMENTS this is to inform the general public of the loss of original certificate of occupancy (C of O) with NO: bzuww1735a-62d7r-c792u-10.and plot No. 1023 and file No. KT10316 located at No. 6 Udihill road, Aso Drive Maitama, Abuja. bearing SALISU AHMED INGAWA. All effort made to trace the said document proved abortive. if found, kindly return to the nearest police or AGIS. General public should please take note. signed: Barr. Abubakar Isa (08038265130) CHANGE OF NAME I formerly known as Rukayat Idris now wish to be known and addressed as Maryam Alu.. All former documents remain relevant.GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD PLEASE TAKE NOTE CHANGE OF NAME I formerly known as ESTHER MARKUS. A. Now wish to be known and addressed as ESTHER CHRISTOPHER FADAH. All for former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME I, former known as Miss Egah patience ire now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Moses ochani. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

THIS SPACE IS FOR SALE

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Rt. Hon. Leo Okuweh Ogor 2. Hon. Idise Samuel 3. Dr. Oboreh Jacobs

ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYIIRONSI STREET, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. PROPHET GEORGE ANIUKWU 2. IKECHUKWU ANTHONY ANIUKWU 3. CHRISTOPHER CHUKWUKA ANIUKWU 4. CHUKWUNONSO VAL ANIUKWU

SIGNED: SECRETARY

THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY INFORMED THAT THE ABOVE NAMED FOUNDATION HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART “C” OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT 1 OF 1990.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

1. CAMPAIGN AND SENSITIZATION AGAINST YOUTHS EMIGRATION. 2. YOUTHS AWARENESS ON THE NEED TO REMAIN IN THEIR COUNTRY AND AVOID ILLEGAL EMIGRATION.

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUYI IRONSI STREET PMB 198, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28TH DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION.

OPUTE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT FOUNDATION

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1. To support the development of the community.

2. To empower the youths.

2. To promote the welfare of its members.

4. To ensure infrastructural and educational development in the community.

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED FOUNDATION HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

1. TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST.

PUBLIC NOTICE

THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE:

ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUYI IRONSI STREET PMB 198, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28TH DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION. SIGNED: BARR. JOY ANI 08039317021

PROGRESSIVE AMBASSADORS OF NIGERIA

The General Public is hereby notified that the above named ASSOCIATION has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under Part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matters Act, 2004.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Comrade Jasper Emenike - President 2. Magaji Issa Salami - Secretary 3. Alhaji Bashari Umar - Treasurer 4. Dr. Benjamin O. Ahiante - Publicity secretary 5. Zainab F. Mohammed - Women Leader 6. Sule Danjuma - Financial Secretary 7. Mrs. Ruth Agbo - Organising Secretary 8. Zakariyah A. Sanni - Member Aims And Objective:

1. To lead the crusade for attitudinal change and patriotic citizenship in all strata of the Nigeria society.

2. To actively support and promote Federal Government’s polices with the aim to encouraging and deepening national unity, accountable leadership, democracy and rule of law.

Any objection to the registration should be forwarded to the Registrar-General, Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420, Tigris Crescent, Off AguiyiIronsi Street, Maitama, P.M.B. 198, Garki, Abuja within Twenty-Eight (28) days from the date of this Publication signed: SECRETARY

THE FEDERAL POLYTECHNIC, MUBI. OFFICE OF THE REGISTRAR P.M.B.35, Mubi, Adomowo Stole, Nigeria Website:www.fpm.edu.ng

INVITATION FOR TECHNICAL AND FINANCIAL BIDS FOR YEAR 2014 TETFUND SPECIAL INTERVENTION INTRODUCTION The Federal Polytechnic Mubi, Adamawa State is desirous to execute its year 2014 TETFUND Special Intervention Projects. Reputable Contractors with good track records are hereby invited to bid for Tender for Technical and Financial Bids Exercise.

PROJECTS: LOT A: Procurement of laboratory Equipment for the Department of Science Laboratory Technology LOT B: Supply and Installation of Laboratory Equipment for the Department of Physics and Electronics LOT C: Supply and Installation of Architectural Equipment for the Department of Architecture LOTD: Supply of Motor Vehicles for Conference and Research purposes CONDITIONS FOR ELIGIBILITY Interested contractors shall be required to submit the following documents: 1.

Evidence of Incorporation of Company with Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC); 2.

Evidence of Compliance with Pension Reform, 2004; 3.

Evidence of TAX Clearance for the last three (3) years; 4.

Evidence of Registration with ITF; 5.

Comprehensive Company Profile; 6.

Evidence of Financial Capability and Banking Support; 7.

Evidence of SIMILAR and Verifiable projects executed not just awarded within the last five (5) years; 8. Evidence of equipment and technology capacity; 9. Sworn Affidavit to indicate that all information provided are true in every respect that the company is not in receivership and none of its Directors were ever convicted of fraudulent activity; 10.

Company’s Audited Account for the last three (3} years; 11.

Evidence of Registration with VAT/TIN; and 12.

Evidence of Social Responsibilities rendered (if any).

THIS SPACE IS FOR SALE

VERIFICATION OF CLAIMS Please note that the Federal Polytechnic Mubi reserves the right to verify claims made for the purpose of prequalification and financial tender as submitted by the interested contractors.

COLLECTION OF TENDER /BID DOCUMENTS Interested companies are to collect tender document from the Office of the Registrar, Federal Polytechnic Mubi, Adamawa State on the payment of non­refundable fees of N30,000.00 to the Bursary Department and obtain a receipt.

SUBMISSION OF TENDER / BID DOCUMENTS Technical and Financial Bids are to be submitted in two separate envelopes clearly marked “Technical” and “Financial” Bid with the LOT NO. and Description of Project addressed to THE REGISTRAR, FEDERAL POLYTECHNIC MUBI, ADAMAWA STATE. The envelopes are to be dropped in THE REGISTRAR’S OFFICE, FEDERAL POLYTECHNIC MUBI, ADAMAWA STATE not later than Thursday 6th of August, 2015 at 12:00 noon from the date of this publication.

OPENING OF TENDER /BID DOCUMENTS The Technical Bids shall be opened in the Council Hall of Federal Polytechnic Mubi, Adamawa State immediately after closing of Bids by 12:00 noon on Thursday 6th August, 2015. Representatives of all responding companies, civil societies, NGOs and Member of the general public are invited to witness the bid opening exercise, please.

PLEASE NOTE THAT: a. Tender Documents submitted late shall be rejected. b. Invitation for Financial Bids opening will be extended to only bidders who are technically pre-qualified. c. The Polytechnic shall not enter into any correspondence with any unsuccessful bidder. d. Nothing in this advert shall be construed to be a commitment by the Federal Polytechnic, Mubi.

SIGNED: DR.SULEIMAN S. BUBA Registrar

THIS SPACE IS FOR SALE

PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESday, JUNE 24, 2015

Some Interesting Facts 1. People with higher number of moles tend to live longer than people with lesser number of moles.

2. It cost 7 million dollars to build the Titanic and 200 million to make a film about it.

3. When filming summer scenes in winter, actors suck on ice cubes just before the camera rolls – it cools their mouths so their breath doesn’t condense in the cold air.

4. Thinking about your muscles can make you stronger.

5. Grapefruit scent will make middle aged women appear six years younger to men. The perception is not reciprocal and the grapefruit scent on men has no effect on women’s perception.

6. The world’s youngest parents were 8 and 9 and lived in China in 1910.

7. The colder the room you sleep in, the better the chances are that you’ll have a bad dream.

8. There are more people alive today than have ever

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died.

9. Women’s hair is about half the diameter of men’s hair 10. Women blink twice as many times as men do.

11. The average person who stops smoking requires one hour less sleep a night.

12. Laughing lowers levels of stress hormones and strengthens the immune system.

Six-year-olds laugh an average of 300 times a day. Adults only laugh 15 to 100 times a day.

13. Intelligent people have more zinc and copper in their hair.

14. The human heart creates enough pressure while pumping to squirt blood 30 feet!

15. The brain operates on the same amount of power as 10-watt light bulb. The cartoon image of a light bulb over your head when a great thought occurs isn’t too far off the mark. Your brain generates as much energy as a small light bulb even when you’re sleeping.

16. The brain is much more active at night than during the day.

Say what?

SUDOKU

SUDOKU EASY 255

PHOTO OF THE DAY

SUDOKU SOLUTION 254

French photographer, Réhahn, 35, said the friendly children loved him taking their pictures and seemed happy to see a foreigner.

Source: Dailymail.co.uk

www.peoplesdailyng.com

. . . putting the people first

Wednesday, june 24, 2015

QUOTABLE QUOTE . . . Treasury virtually empty; with debts in millions of dollars; with state workers and even federal workers not being paid their salaries.

– President Muhammadu Buhari

SPORTS Time, change, and latest

Seven arrested over match-fixing

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even people have been arrested over suspected match-fixing involving Italian Serie B side Catania.

They are accused of committing “fraud in sporting competition”, according to a Catania police statement.

The authorities have not released details of the matches on which the investigation is focused.

Catania relegated from Serie A in 2013-14, finished 15th in Serie B last season, three points above the relegation play-off places.

Prosecutors said the matchfixing allegations centred on five or six games.

C a t a n i a p o l i c e superintendent Marcello Cardona said the “extremely complex investigation” had been prompted by a complaint from club president Antonino Pulvirenti.

Chelsea’s striker Traore granted work permit

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urkina Faso striker Bertrand Traore is set to feature in Chelsea’s first-team squad after being granted a work permit.

The 19-year-old signed for the Blues in January 2014 but, not qualifying for a permit, has since been on loan at Vitesse Arnhem in the Netherlands.

The Blues reapplied this summer and succeeded under the Football Association’s new points-based system.

Traore is expected to be part of Chelsea’s tour to the United States.

The change to work permit regulations has been introduced in a bid to limit the number of non-EU players but Traore, who did not qualify automatically, has been given permission to play in England by the FA. He scored 19 goals for Vitesse in the Eredivisie last season, and has played in three Africa Cup of Nations campaigns for Burkina Faso, having made his debut aged 15.

Chelsea will play against New York Red Bulls, Paris St-Germain and Barcelona when they travel to the United States in pre season.

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transformation in Nigeria I.

Introduction esults of the March 28 and April 11, 2015 elections in Nigeria have made me to have some deep reflections on events in the affairs of men and nations. I was one of the dramatis personae in, and one of the beneficiaries of, the elections, having contested and won the election to the senate on the platform of the All Progressive Congress (APC) in the Katsina Central Senatorial District of Katsina State. The reflections have shown that events are shaped by factors that can be harnessed and manipulated to achieve desired goals. They have also revealed to me roles that winners of the elections and other stakeholders are to play in harnessing and manipulating the factors. It is incumbent on us, winners of the elections, and the other stakeholders to identify these roles, understand them, and play them effectively.

This is necessary at this time in Nigeria as the winning party and all winners of the elections are preparing to assume their new positions later this month.

My thoughts have been compressed and presented in this article under the title Time, Change, and Transformation in Nigeria, in order to point out lessons that have been thrown up by this epoch making elections, and how these lessons can be used to transform Nigeria. I have, therefore, suggested some items that can be considered for inclusion in the agenda our great party, the APC has for changing and transforming Nigeria.

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Time and change he impact of time and change in shaping the current developments in Nigeria gave me a greater insight into the results of the March 28 and April 11 elections. I then tried to decipher why they were different from those of previous years. It is common knowledge that the ruling People’s Democratic Party (PDP) with all the benefits and privileges of its incumbency power was defeated in the elections. This has made what used to be not to be any longer. In three consecutive previous elections in 2003, 2007, and 2011, the ruling party, the PDP, won with the opposition parties, All Peoples Party (APP) which later became All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP), Alliance for Democracy (AD), Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN),

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Wednesday Column Sen. Umaru Ibrahim Kurfi

Buhari Congress for Progressive Change (CPC), and All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA) being the paramount ones, not coming any close. The ruling party enjoyed the privileges and power of incumbency to coast its way to victory. But, this year, 2015, the former president, President Goodluck Jonathan, was roundly defeated. In addition, Governorship candidates in states controlled by the PDP, namely Adamawa, Bauchi, Plateau, Jigawa, Katsina, Kebbi, Niger, Kogi, and Benue, states were defeated by the candidates of the main opposition party, APC. Four PDP serving Governors of Bauchi, Niger, Benue and Adamawa States, who contested for senatorial positions, were defeated by senatorial candidates of the APC who had no state power and resources. Several PDP candidates for the House of Representatives in PDP controlled states were also defeated by candidates contesting on the platform of the APC. Against all grains of thoughts, post election violence of significant magnitude did not erupt after the announcements of results. This was, partly, as a result of the early concession of defeat by the former president, President Goodluck Jonathan, on the one hand, and the credibility of the conduct of the elections, as adjudged by many local and international electoral observers, on the other. The role of the

Independent National Electoral Commission in managing events during the period, the focussed manner in which the electorate participated in the elections, and the maturity and patriotism demonstrated by the security agents in providing security in the country (except in some few places where there were alleged cases of malpractice) went a long way to facilitate a successful and credible conduct of the elections.

Previous elections were characterised by destructive post-election violence that led to the loss of hundreds of lives and the destruction of valuable properly worth several millions of Naira.

In sync with the effect of time on events, the 2015 Nigerian electoral phenomenon came about because people resolved that the spectacle of disappointing performance of previous years was detestable, and so they needed something different. They used the ballot box to announce that they were fed up; that time had come for them to have a different set of political leaders who will be sensitive, caring, and performing.

In the spirit of the prevailing times, Nigerians have clamoured for change; one that will eradicate the unpleasant situation they are living in. Nigerians made their views known during their private discussions, in exchanges in the social media, in radio and television discussions and commentaries, and in feature articles and commentaries in newspapers. On their own part, politicians, who were in the opposition, used their campaign media to inform the electorate that the country needed change, and that they should be given the mandate to effect the needed change.

The unpleasant, debilitating, situation in the country that provoked the cry for change consists in the following: 1. A weak economy plagued by: i.

A sub-optimally developed agricultural sector that is unable to adequately cater for the food and industrial raw materials needs in the country

that had led to continued import of food and raw materials. ii. A weak industrial sector characterised by many closed manufacturing factories, with surviving ones operating at abysmally low installed technical capacities. iii. Depleted foreign reserves owing to increased imports of foreign goods that could be manufactured in the country. iv. Huge import bills caused by the massive imports of unnecessary foreign goods. v.

High rate of unemployment that left millions of graduates and youths without jobs and any tangible means of livelihood. vi. Heavy dependence on oil and gas for 65% of government revenue and 90% of foreign exchange needs, and the exposure of the country to the unpleasant consequences of the vagaries of the volatile international oil market.

2. Poor quality of life for Nigerians, depicted by low life expectancy at 52 years, with 68% of the citizens living on less than $1 per day, only a pitiable 4% of the population having access to pipe-born water, and only 31% having access to improved sanitation.

3. High level of insecurity evident in rampant incidents of armed robbery, kidnappings, assassinations, and activities of insurgents that has led to losses of several thousands of lives, properties worth several billions of Naira, and the disruption of genuine economic activities.

Contd on Page 31

DAN GAYE

Senators’ allowances nine times higher than basic pay – News

That’s why they should be on part time!

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