Peoples Daily, Wednesday, April 27, 2016. Edition.

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Wednesday, April 27, 2016 / Rajab 19, 1437 AH

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Vol. 22 No. 65 N150

IGP orders arrest, prosecution pAGE 3 of fuel vendors

<< pAGEs 6, 16, & 40 >> Chibok 744 Days4,Will the18abducted schoolgirls ever be rescued? after:

Good governance

Senators Akpabio, Melaye, Goje, 74 others back Buhari l As protesters demand Saraki’s resignation l Senate President alleges plot to remove him

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#Occupy Nass…members of Citizen United for Peace and Stability, during their protest on non Passage of 2016 Budget and Demanding Resignation of Senate President, Bukola Saraki at the National Assembly, yesterday in Abuja.

Photo: Mahmud Isa

FG renews war against insecurity, orders military to crush offenders pAGE 5

Kaduna Refinery Niger borrows N400m Army reveals Boko Haram’s new means of begins distribution of monthly to pay 2m litres today identification salaries- Gov Bello pAGE 7

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>> pg 3

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PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESday, april 27, 2016

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News CONTENTS News 2-10 Editorial 11 Op.Ed 12 Letters 13 Politics 15-18 Business Stockwatch

19-22 23

S/Report 24-25 Property 27 Motoring 28

Kaduna Refinery begins operation today, to distribute 2m litres of fuel From Mohammad Ibrahim, Kaduna

K

aduna Refinery and Petrol Chemical Company (KRPC), Managing Director, Idi Muktar has said that the company will distribute 2 million of PMS today in Kaduna state.

According to him, efforts have been put in place to ensure constant supply of the product to help reduce the hardship Nigerians are facing due to fuel scarcity in the state.

The managing director disclosed this while receiving leadership of the state Union of

Journalists, NUJ, in the state. “ I want to announce that by tomorrow( Wednesday), Kaduna Refinery will begin operation with the release of 2 million litres of PMS in Kaduna. This will help reduce the hardship the citizens are facing due to fuel scarcity in the state “ Sustainability of the product is another issue Nigerians will want to hear. With available crude oil we will be producing 2 million PMS a day. I can assure you that all hands are on deck to ensure supply. We also hope Nigerians will continue praying for it to be sustained,” he said.

The MD pointed out that once the supply is sustained, there

will be no scarcity of fuel in the country.

He also blamed some bad elements in the society for the fuel scarcity, “from March to April we witnessed 13 infractions with the pipelines from Abuja to Kaduna.

We are losing patrol due to activities of unpatriotic elements tempering with pipelines which is unfortunate,” he said.

Idi Muktar stressed that it’s high time these unpatriotic Nigerians realized the harm done to this country due to their unpatriotic behaviour.

He assured the visiting journalists of his company’s readiness to partner with media in development of the country.

Arts 30

ICPC Report: Tension mounts in Benue Page 10

Arts

30

Metro

31

S/World

39

Digest

40

Sports 41 Columnist 48

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L-R: Minister of Health, prof. Isaac Adewole; Governor Aminu Tambuwal of Sokoto state and Minister of state for Health, Dr osagie Ehanire, at Nigeria medical association annual conference, yesterday in Sokoto.

Photo: NAN

Boko Haram: Institute begins peace building in Adamawa From Umar Dankano,Yola

A

s peace returns to Adamawa after the Boko Haram insurgency, the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR) has commenced training of stakeholders in the state on peace building.

The Project Coordinator of the Peace Building Training Project, Mr Chukwuemeka Mbah, made this known in an interview with journalists yesterday in Yola.

Mbah, said that more than 200 stakeholders drawn from communities in seven local government areas of Yola North, Yola South, Hong, Gombi, Girei, Fufore and Song which constituted the central zone of

the state had benefited from the first batch of the training.

Mbah, said the second batch of the training would commence next week in Mubi town for stakeholders in northern zone of the state which comprised Madagali, Michika, Maiha, Mubi North and Mubi South Local Government Areas.

Mbah, said Adamawa has been identified by the institute and experts as a fragile state, adding that the return of peace after the insurgency crisis made the institute to intervene to douse tension created by suspicion among the diverse people of the state.

“From our research in IPCR and from open source intelligence, we have identified

Adamawa as a state that need a lot of intervention in terms of peace and coexistence.

“After this insurgency a lot has happened; there is a lot of mistrust, hatred and we need to really start fostering coexistence.

“Madagali and Michika are very fragile areas where we need a lot of interventions especially now that things are going back to normal.

“This is what we call the early recovery stages of conflict and that is where peace building has to be brought in,” Mbah said.

Mbah who is also the Coordinator External Conflict Prevention and Research lauded the support and commitment of UNHCR and Adamawa government to the project.

FG committed to diversification of economy - Osinbajo From Olanrewaju Lawal, Ilorin

V

ice-President Yemi Osinbajo has said that the Federal Government is committed to the diversification of economy through the steel and mining industry.

The Vice-President, who stated this at Jimba-Oja, a village in Kwara state at the foundation laying ceremony of KAM Integrated Steel Project on Tuesday, said the present administration led by President Muhammadu Buhari had realised that no nation could grow without diversifying its economy, stressing that the Federal Government would encourage the steel and mining sector like Kam industry.

Osinbajo also said President Buhari’s administration would remove all bottlenecks which served as barrier to the steel, iron and mine sectors.

The Vice-President said Nigeria remained the largest steel and iron producer in Africa and 12th in the world adding that the Federal Government would continue to assist the sector to ensure the nation’s economy is diversified.

At the Emir of Ilorin’s palace, the Vice-President, described his visit to the state, and Ilorin town in particular as a home coming, saying it would have been unusual for him not to have paid the homage.

He, said, the visit to the state was a happy occasion, adding that the country had every reason to be proud of the feat recorded by the manufacturing outfit, particularly at attracting both local and international attention.

The vice president, who commended the people of the state for the support given during the last electioneering campaign, said the government was determined to better the lives of all Nigerians.

Earlier, The Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, warned the Federal Government on the activities of rampaging herdsmen, saying it is threatening existence of Nigeria as a corporate entity.

The Minister of Solid Mineral and Steel, Dr Kayode Fayemi in his remark at the foundation laying ceremony, said KAM Wire remained a single largest steel industry in Nigeria which started two decade ago.

Fayemi said when the new project, KAM Integrated Steel Project is completed, the company would grow from 3,000 employment capacity to 20,000 .

He promised Nigerians that President Buhari’s administration would revive Ajaokuta Steel Industry and Nigerian Iron Ore Mining Company(NIOMCO) at Itakpe.

The Deputy Managing Director,Kam Industries,Hajia Mariam Bolanle Yusuf in her welcome address thanked the Vice-President for honoured the invitation to the ceremony stressing that “ there cannot be any meaningful development in Nigeria economy without a conscious effort at developing the steel sector.”

PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESday, april 27, 2016

PAGE 3

News

Ag News Editor, Ese Awhotu

Minister of Finance, Mrs Kemi Adeosun (L), welcoming the Managing Director of the world bank, Sri-mulyani Indrawati to the ministry of finance yesterday in Abuja.

Photo: NAN

IGP orders arrest, prosecution of fuel vendors

By Usman Audu

C

oncerned by untold suffering as well as hazard emanating from the activities of black marketers, especially those who sell petroleum products inside plastic containers/jerrycans, the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Solomon E. Arase, fdc, NPM, has directed all Zonal Assistant Inspectors-General of

Police and FCT/State Commands Commissioners of Police to arrest anybody found selling petrol and other petroleum products in plastic container.

A statement by ACP Olabisi Kolawale, Force Public Relations Officer, Force Headquarters, Abuja, yesterday, said the IGP, issued the directives in Abuja on Monday, saying that, “apart from the hardship this act

is causing to fuel buyers, it has also rendered some innocent and law abiding citizens homeless due to fire outbreak from jerry-can petrol storage.”

He noted that fuel products such as petrol are highly flammable and if not stored and handled properly, can seriously endanger people, property and the environment.

While warning fuel attendants at filling stations to desist from

selling petrol inside jerry-can/ plastic container, the InspectorGeneral of Police said both the buyers and the sellers of the products will be arrested and prosecuted under the law.

The IGP, while assuring Nigerians of the Police readiness to fulfill its constitutional mandate, appealed for a more cordial relationship between the Police and the public.

Consideration of PIB stalled as bill not circulated to senators

A

ttempt to begin consideration of the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB) was stalled on Tuesday as many senators opposed the continuation of reading of the bill.

While Sen. Tayo Alasoadura (APC Ondo Central) was reading provisions of the bill, many of the senators murmured, saying that they did not receive their copies of the bill.

Consequently, the Minority Leader of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, coming under a point of

order, urged that the reading of the bill be discontinued.

He said that without copies of the bill, they could not contribute effectively to the debate and urged that the consideration of the bill be suspended to another legislative day. ``I believe that we are discussing about the mainstay of the economy of Nigeria since 1960, the Petroleum Industry Bill is such an important bill that will affect people suffering in this country. ``It is not the kind of bill that

we can stay here and gloss over and then allow somebody to do a lead debate without senators having the bill in their hands. ``It is something we must study and come and make our own inputs, because we have to make sure that the bill is properly debated for the president to sign it into law. ``I think it is an exercise in futility for my brother to do a lead debate when the bill is not circulated to senators,” he said.

The President of the Senate, Bukola Saraki, therefore, ruled

that the bill be stepped down to another legislative day; but stressed that from his records, the law makers were given the bill last Thursday. ``I am sure, in order to give them time to retrieve what was distributed on Thursday, we would step it down so that they can go and get the document that was distributed. ``So, please ensure that the bill that has been distributed on Thursday is brought and we will now put it before the next debate,” he said. (NAN)

Navy, NIMASA partner on maritime security

By Joy Baba Yesufu

T

he Director General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) Dr Dakuku Peterside has said the issue of maritime security is not just a responsibility meant for Navy and NIMASA but for the entire nation to ensure our waterways are safe for commercial activities.

Peterside stated this yesterday at the Navy Headquarters Abuja when he paid visit to the Chief it Naval Staff(CNS) Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas.

He said the partnership was necessary in order to maximise national resources from all quarters.

He lamented a recent upsurge in maritime illegalities in the last three months calling for a new vigor in the fight against piracy.

The NIMASA boss further said one of the major way to address this challenge is to empower NIMASA to prosecute any criminal arrested on the waterways.

He said one of the highlights of anti piracy law is for such prosecution to be domiciled with NIMASA, which is an agency of government with the responsibility of safer sea and safety of lives and properties on our water ways.

In his response, the CNS said Nigeria had a safe sea environment between last year and mid January when they noticed the upsurge in piracy but maintained that the Navy has put in place measures to address the rise of these illegalities.

Ibas, said one of the hard point measure put in place is collaboration with international partners.

He said this collaborative effort will enable countries involved to close up some identified entry point from the coast to suppress activities of these criminals.

Senate blames buildings collapse on corruption

By Ikechukwu Okaforadi

S

enate yesterday identified corruption and low rate of prosecution of offenders as some of the causes of increasing rate of building collapse in the country.

The upper legislative chamber, which expressed worry over the increasing rate of building collapse in the country, therefore called on the Executive to, as a matter of urgency, set up a court to prosecute building code offenders.

These were sequel to debate on a motion followed titled: “The

need to prosecute building laws violators” sponsored by Senator Nelson Effiong (PDP Akwa Ibom South).

The senate noted with concern the recurring problem of building collapse in the country, which it attributed to lack of strict enforcement of building codes by the authorities.

Leading debate on the motion, Senator Effiong said “although there is provision for summary trial of violators and offenders of building code in our laws, there is no record of persons prosecuted or sanctioned for incidence of building collapse either by the

Ministry of Justice, the Nigeria Police or other law organs of government”.

According to him, available records showed that “between 1974 and 2010, 401 lives were reportedly lost from over 60 collapsed buildings in this country, while more lives were lost but were not recorded”.

Senator Effiong further lamented that “the victims of building collapse do not normally get compensated”.

The senate therefore urged the Executive to make it mandatory for owners of private commercial buildings to obtain

a comprehensive home owners’ insurance on their property to protect buildings against fire, collapse and other unforeseen acts of destruction.

Similarly, it called for the prosecution of corrupt building regulation officials found to be culpable in any building collapse in the country.

The Upper House also advised the Executive to direct professional bodies to withdraw licences of their counterparts who are culpable in any of such menace.

It therefore mandated its Committee on Land and

Housing to invite all agencies saddled with the responsibility of enforcing building codes compliance to brief it on the state of investigations into building collapse in the country and actions taken within the past five years.

In his remarks, the senate president, Bukola Saraki, described the incessant building collapse in the country as worrisome and stressed the need for the National Assembly to be more alive to its oversight functions in the sector with a view to putting an end to the menace.

PAGE 4

PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESday, april 27, 2016

Page 4 Report

Repositioning culture, tourism in a diversified economy

By Rotimi Ijikanmi

T

he sudden and sustained decline in the price of petroleum, the mainstay of the nation’s economy, has been impacting negatively on the country’s revenue base.

As predicted by a former Central Bank Governor, Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, the decline has led to massive depreciation of the currency, a shortfall in foreign reserves and a huge growth in deficits.

The development has also brought about a situation in which many of states, outside the oil producing region, are now finding it difficult to pay workers’ salaries.

For the nation to get out of the quagmire, President Muhammadu Buhari recently declared that his administration would take urgent steps to diversify the national economy and initiate the productive development of various sectors of the economy.

Buhari asserted that the diversification of the Nigerian economy was long overdue, as continued reliance on proceeds from crude oil exports had always made the economy vulnerable to shocks.

The culture and tourism sector has since been identified as one of the sectors that could serve as veritable sources of revenue for the government in its economic diversification programme.

The Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, said that the Federal Government had identified arts, culture and tourism sectors as some of the sectors that would be the focus of its economic diversification programme.

Mohammed recently said in Lagos: ``As you are very much aware, this administration is diversifying the economy away from oil, which for many years has been the mainstay of our economy. ``Among the sectors that have been identified as veritable sources of revenue for the nation are the arts, culture and tourism sectors. ``This is why we, in the ministry of information and culture, are working hard to move these sectors from the margins to the mainstream and ensure that the rural poor, in particular, are factored into the sectors’ architecture.’’

Conscious of the potential challenges facing efforts to reposition these critical sectors and the need to carry along strategic stakeholders in the reform process, the minister said that the government would convene a National Summit on Culture and Tourism, with a view to charting the way forward.

Mohammed underscored the Federal Government’s determination to ensure that the culture and tourism sectors became money spinners for the country. ``We are, however, aware that similar efforts had been made in the past, without an appreciable result. ``The difference, this time around, is our commitment and the different milieu provided by the national imperative to diversify the economy, amidst the crash in the price of oil,’’ he said.

He said that the summit, which would hold from April 27 to April 29 with the theme, ``Repositioning Culture and Tourism in a Diversified Economy’’, would be declared opened by the President, who was also the Special Guest of Honour.

The minister said that the summit would focus on the creative sector and its

Tourist site in Nigeria roles in creating the necessary enabling environment and fillip for local industries to become economically viable.

He said that the summit would forge solid public-private-partnerships and collaboration, with a view to creating employment opportunities and promoting sustainable grassroots development in the culture and tourism sector.

According to him, efforts will be made to explore ways of transforming heritage sites, museums and galleries into avenues for employment and wealth generation.

He said that the gathering would also reexamine cultural education, with a view to expunging negative cultural practices, youth restiveness and delinquency.

Besides, Mohammed said that there would be coordinated marketing and promotion of Nigeria as a tourism destination as well as the development of a research and statistics mechanism that was vital national development efforts.

On cultural diplomacy, the minister said that the summit would devise strategies for the use of culture as a potent tool for dispute

“

resolution, peace-making and creating synergy within and outside the country.

Mrs Ayotunde Adesugba, Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Information and Culture, said that festivals, traditional cottage industries, including arts and crafts; bronze and brass works; pottery; leather works; tie and dye weaving and raffia works, among others, would be critically examined for employment generation purposes.

She said the Nigerian movies, music, fashion and attires, as well as indigenous cosmetics would also be examined, with a view to repositioning them for wealth creation.

Adesugba said that the summit would look into how to develop the five tourism clusters, which had been identified in Nigeria’s National Tourism Master Plan.

The tourism clusters include the Conference Capital (FCT, Nasarawa, etc.); Sahara Gateway (old Kano’s city wall, dyeing pits, etc.) and Scenic Nature (Museum and traditional architecture) The others are Atlantic Gateway (Olokola Resort) and Tropical Rainforest (Obudu

Conscious of the potential challenges facing efforts to reposition these critical sectors and the need to carry along strategic stakeholders in the reform process, the minister said that the government would convene a National Summit on Culture and Tourism, with a view to charting the way forward.

Ranch resort).

Mr Nkanta Ufot, Director of International Cultural Relations, Federal Ministry of Information and Culture, said that the summit which would hold at the Congress Hall of Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja, would feature presentations by culture and tourism experts.

He said that papers would be presented by a Nobel laureate, Prof. Wole Soyinka, former Secretary of National Council of Arts and Culture, Frank Aig-Imoukhuede and former Gov. Donald Duke of Cross River.

Mrs Bolanle Austen-Peters, Founder of Terra Kulture, and Chief Tomi Akingbogun, President of Fed¬eration of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN), are also among the resource persons.

It will be recalled that Duke, as Cross River governor, created the Obudu Ranch International Mountain Race, which has grown to become one of the most famous mountain running competitions in the world.

He also initiated Tinapa Resort project to boost business and tourism in the state.

Besides, Ufot said that Professors Mabel Evwierhoma, Umar Buratai, Ahmed Yerima, Sunnie Ododo, Tracie Utoh-Ezeajugh and Sule Bello; Dr Paul Adalikwu, Chief Tope Awe and Dr Franklin Adejuwon were some of the discussants and contributors expected at the summit.

He said that the summit would feature a gala night, cultural performances by the National Troupe of Nigeria and a tour of cultural and tourism sites in Abuja.

Stakeholders have described the decision to convene the summit as ``apt, timely and a step in the right direction’’.

This is because the consensus of opinion is that if the potential of Nigeria’s culture and tourism sectors is properly harnessed and developed, the sectors can contribute a lot to the national economy.

For instance, Mr Charles Folayan, a tourism expert, said that if properly developed, the tourism and hospitality sector, which currently contributed a meagre 1.5 per cent to the country’s Gross Domestic Product (PDP), could facilitate Nigeria’s economic survival.

Folayan, the Public Relations Officer of Hospitality and Tourism Management Association of Nigeria (HATMAN), said that government only have to review the sector and have the political will to implement innovative and transformative policies.

Another tourism expert, Mr Zubairu Abubakar, nonetheless, insisted that ``without the government leading the approach, private investors will not show adequate interest in tourism’’.

He stressed that culture and tourism could be powerful drivers of national economies if they were well-developed, packaged, harnessed and promoted.

Abubakar reiterated that the government must exhibit enough will and commitment, while formulating pragmatic policies that would improve the culture and tourism sectors.

He urged the government to collaborate with the private sector to develop reliable statistics, empirical data and knowledge that would portray Nigeria as a veritable tourist destination.

All the same, tourism experts insist that concerted efforts should be made to elicit tangible investments in Nigeria’s tourism infrastructure so as to develop the sector and enhance its contributions to the national economy. (NANFeatures)

PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESday, april 27, 2016

News

PAGE 5

Senators Akpabio, Meleye, 75 others back Buhari

L-R: Acting Managing Director, Bank of Industry (BOI), Mr. Waheed Olagunju, Kwara State governor Abdul Fatai Ahmed, Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osibajo, Minister of Solid Mineral Development, Dr. Kayode Fayemi and Chairman KAM Steel integrated Company, Dr. Kamorudeen Yusuf, during the foundation laying ceremony of KAM Integrated Steel Project in Jimba Oja, Ganmo Ilorin, yesterday in Kwara state.

protesters, one of the coordinators, Sadiq Jidda said the Senate President was deficient in integrity and that his inability to live above board as a National Assembly leader has disqualified him from the post.

Coordinator of another group, Akpomejevwe Nyemachi Tedheke, said, senate’s fraudulent handling of the 2016 budget and its refusal to put into full glare of Nigerians, details of the N115billion allocated to the National Assembly also necessitated their protest.

The protesters who started thronging the National Assembly premises as early as 10.30 am were initially seen dancing and singing, while chanting anti-Saraki songs, before they suddenly became aggressive.

For fear of breakdown of law and order, security operatives at the Complex moved swiftly to shutdown the giant gates in an attempt to prevent the protesters from gaining entry into the main premises.

However, earlier the Pro-Saraki group, had come and protested, saying that the ongoing trial of the Senate President at the CCT was an attempt to emasculate the Senate.

They called on Nigerians to stand up to prevent an attempt by those they described as enemies of democracy to halt the progress the Senate has been making on defence of democracy.

This is even as the office of the Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki, had yesterday raised the alarm over alleged plots by his opponents to force him out of office.

The Senate President made the announcement yesterday through his Special Adviser on Media and Communication, Mr. Yusuf Olaniyonu.

“The Office of Senate President has alerted members of the public on the plan by some politicians to create public disorder through a sponsored demonstration that will seek to ground human and vehicular activities on some major streets of Abuja, particularly, those leading to the National Assembly Complex.

“We have information that the sponsors have been deploying resources to ensure that a sizable crowd was mobilized to create chaos, confusion and tension around the streets of Abuja. Money and other materials are being provided for the organizers by the sponsors.

have potential to disrupt peace and security of our country. ``Our security and response agencies are constantly engaged in the essential tasks required for meeting these internal security objectives, our government will not relent in this primary objective.’ ``The government of President Muhammadu Buhari’s number one priority is to ensure the security of lives and property of its citizens, guarantee a secure environment for socio-economic activities to thrive without hindrance,” he said.

He said government would no longer tolerate unpatriotic acts that were capable of undermining the present administration’s efforts in entrenching sanity in the polity.

News Agency of Nigeria

proactive measures and systematic approach to crisis communication aimed at filling existing communication gaps. ``One such gap identified by the centre is the occasional unsavory relationship with the media by the security and response agencies in times of crisis. ``The centre believes that peace and security are very essential for Nigeria’s socioeconomic development’’, he said.

Anas said the seminar would be a regular feature in its calendar of activities for information managers in Nigeria.

Participants at the seminar are drawn from the media, various security and response agencies, the ministries of defence and interior and nongovernmental organisations.

As protesters demand Saraki’s resignation l Senate president alleges plot to remove him l

By Ikechukwu Okaforadi

T

he newly formed group of 77 first timer senators in the 8th Senate otherwise known as G77, yesterday declared their support for President Muhammadu Buhari, debunking allegations that the Group was formed to fight the president.

This is just as hundreds of protesting youths, under the aegis of Occupy NASS, yesterday thronged the National Assembly, calling for the resignation of the Senate President, Bukola Saraki from office to face his trial at the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT) over alleged false assets declaration.

However, the senate president in a swift reaction yesterday alleged that there was a plot to remove him from office They G 77 also declared that the 2016 budget impasse between the National Assembly and the Presidency would end latest Friday this week.

Briefing the media after the first meeting of the group yesterday, it’s Chairman, Senator Godswill Akpabio, said the group being the majority in the Senate, will ensure that all differences between the executive and the National Assembly, particularly the Senate over the 2016 budget estimates, are addressed and sorted out before Friday this week.

He explained that the group contrary to media reports at the weekend, was not formed to fight President Muhammadu Buhari but support him in giving Nigerians good governance.

He added that the group was also out to work hand in hand with the Senate leadership as presently constituted, for enactment of laws that would make Nigeria more responsive and responsible to her citizenry and the citizenry more patriotic to the Nigerian project.

“I want to assure you that the

entire 77 senators who make up this group are all poised to ensure that there is good governance in Nigeria. And we want to support Mr President to ensure that he gives out dividends of democracy to Nigerians.

“All the social media reports that are thinking that this group is meant to confront the Executive or ranking senators, those reports are not true,” he explained.

“As I speak to you now, outside this 77 senators, most of my colleagues who have been in the Red Chamber for a long time are applying to join the group. And they want to move it to G 90 so that we can always speak in one voice.

“The lingering issue on the budget is something that we feel is embarrassing to Nigeria, not just to

the National Assembly as a whole. If we had a group like this, by now that issue would have been brought to an end. But just to reassure you that Mr President will have his budget. And we are doing everything possible to rejig the details of the 2016 budget for Mr President to sign as soon as possible. And we hope we can finish that by this Friday so that things can kick-start in the Nigerian economy,” he added.

On the protest, the anti- Saraki youths in their mid twenties and thirties, who wore T-shirts with inscription #Occupy National Assembly, vowed to sustain the protest for his ouster in office until Saraki resigns.

They barricaded the main entrance to the National Assembly complex, thus forcing lawmakers

and staff in the legislative arm to make do with the alternative entrance at the back of the complex to resume work.

The placard carrying protesters accused the Senate President of acts of corruption, citing his alleged false assets declaration, alleged padding of the 2016 budget by legislators and the delay of the Budget assent by the National Assembly as reasons he should resign.

The protesters alleged that the sufferings Nigerians are passing through at the moment is enormous owing to refusal by President Muhammadu Buhari to assent the 2016 budget was partly the making of the National Assembly, which they said have been sympathetic to Saraki.

Speaking on behalf of the

FG renews war against insecurity, orders army to crush offenders

By Usman Audu with agency report

T

he Federal Government yesterday restated its resolve to deal decisively with threats of crisis and conflict that are capable of disrupting peace and security in Nigeria.

The Minister of Defence, Retired Brig.-Gen. Mansur DanAli, stated this at the opening of a three-day seminar on Information Management in Crisis Situations in Nigeria.

He said the security of lives and property of citizens remained top on the agenda of the President Muhammadu Buhari administration. ``To this end, all security agencies in Nigeria have been called upon to crush and deter the threats of crisis and conflict that

reports that Dan-Ali acknowledged the efforts of troops and their commanders in the various theatres of operations in ensuring that Nigerian territories were not only secured but conducive for socioeconomic activities to thrive.

The minister assured members of the Armed Forces and other security and response agencies, of the present administration’s commitment to their welfare.

He said despite the prevailing economic condition in the country, efforts were underway to improve the capacity of security and response agencies to discharge their duties effectively.

Dan-Ali said the seminar was timely as it would facilitate a robust interaction between information managers in

the security and disaster management sector, and the media.

He said officers from the various security and response agencies would find a common ground to learn new skills, share experiences and build capacity of one another on information management.

Executive Secretary of the Centre for Crisis Communication (CCC), Retired Air Commodore Yusuf Anas, said the seminar was one of the centre’s intervention in crisis management in Nigeria.

He said the centre believed in developing and nurturing a symbiotic relationship between information managers and the media in managing information during crisis situations. ``The centre is evolving

PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESday, april 27, 2016

PAGE 6

News My victims are numerous – Robbery suspect tells police

Chinonso Onnogo, Chuka Eze, Matthew Aramunde. the robbery where they met two between Ojota and Mile 12 and that others. men, John Obinna and Sunday he sustained injury while trying to “It was God’s intervention that Kadir Afolabi, Segun Pascal and Ugwu and after interviewing and resist them as they matcheted and I was not killed that night as I was David Bassey.

They all confessed to have been 27 -year - old man, arrested searching the duo saw suspected head-butted him forcing him to He struggling for survival, drinking by the operatives of the Rapid stolen phones and an unused stated that the robber in trying to my own blood before I was able to robbing people at night in Ojota, Response Squad of the Lagos sim card, which was traced to collect his two phones, matcheted cross to the other side of the road Ketu and Mile 12.According to the head-butted him into and escape”, he noted.

Police PPRO, Dolapo Badmos, State Police Command along with its original owner, Mr Adebayo and surrendering his phones (Microsoft The arrest of John Obinna and all the suspects confessed to the seven others for robbing passers-by Ogunleye.

An elated Mr Ogunleye Lumia 535 & Tecno T5) and wallet Sunday Ugwu by the operatives offence and they have given the in Ojota, Ketu and Mile 12 at night, has disclosed that he has lost count revealed that on that fateful day, containing BVN Card, First Bank prompted the arrest of 6 other police useful statement that would of the number of people that had he was waylaid by the suspects verve card and MasterCard among suspects, namely, Dapo Simeon, assist fallen victim to his antics.

The suspect, Dapo Simeon, a bricklayer who hails from Oyo State, told the police that he started with pickpocketing more than 3 years ago before graduating into robbery, pointing out that he now specialises in stealing phones, jewellery and money.

“I can’t remember the number of phones I have stolen and collected from passers-by in Ojota, Ketu and Mile 12. I was trained by Olasege and later Femi. Both of them are my bosses and they live in Mushin, Idi – Oro area of Lagos State. They taught me the job” the suspect claimed Continuing he said he sells all the phones he steals at night or in the day to Baba Iyabo who usually meet with me at down blow area in Mile 12 to collect the phones and jewelries in the morning”, Consequent upon reports lodged by two young ladies to RRS monitoring teams, who claimed they were robbed the previous night at MKO Gardens Estate near Ojota, Simeon and his colleagues were picked up on Thursday morning.

Commuters showing frustration at a traffic Jam caused by an articulated vehicle which rammed into a pavement at Kagini rail-crossing The operatives were said to have near kubwa in Abuja .

Photo: Justin Imo-Owo followed the women to the scene of

From Lagos

A

Niger borrows N400m monthly to pay salaries -Gov Bello T

FG to build mass housing unit in 6 geo-political zones

From Yakubu Mustapha,Minna.

T

he Niger State Governor, Alhaji Abubarkar Sani Bello has said that the state is in a tight corner by borrowing N400m every month to augment civil servants salaries.

This even as he said that the money from the federal allocation was inadequate to pay workers salary for one month as at moment.

The governor disclosed that the state and local government joint account will be scrapped by next month( May).

He also attributed the problems

associated with massive corruption in states to lack of local governments autonomy in the country and the joint account system.

Bello stated this at a stakeholders town hall meeting at Justice Idris Legbo Kutigi, International Conference Centre, Minna, revealing further that as from May this year, the local government autonomy will be operational and would assist LGAs manage their resources in other to provide dividend of democracy to the electorates at the grassroots level.

“I am not interested in the local governments funds, let them clean up their community by fishing out

ghost workers they are harbouring,” “I am interested in improving the welfare and development of the people, by May the 25 LGAs in Niger state would get their full autonomy, you can employ more or reduce your staff status” he said.

Governor Bello stated the state is passing through a lot of hard times but would ensure that workers are paid their salaries as at when due.

Bello who charged workers in the state to tighten up their belts for hard times ahead, promised to do the best for the people no matter the predicament.

According to him, “Last month we borrowed to complete the

salaries, this month will be worse and next month will be worst.

Workers must should endure with the government for in less than no distance time things will change to better.”

He disclosed that the entire governors had meeting last week with the Minister of Finance and it appears the situation will not improve till three to four months time.

Governor Bello, however,blamed the mistakes of the past government which served as a reason why the country is facing major difficulties in the scheme of things and called on everybody to join hands to rebuild Niger.

Applications for 10,000 police jobs rise to 796,152

T

he Police Service Commission (PSC), said in Abuja on Tuesday that it received 796, 152 applications for enlistment into the Nigeria Police Force.

Mr Ikechukwu Ani, Head, Press and Public Relations of the commission, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), that the recruitment site had been running effectively after initial hitches.

Ani said the commission does not anticipate any crowd as successful applicants would be invited batch by batch after collation of the names.

He said that they would be communicated through their e-mail addresses.

The spokesman said there would be no room for compromise as selection and collation would be done electronically.

He said there was nothing

to worry about the increasing number of applicants as the selection process would be strictly followed.

He said that 229, 817 applications were received for Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) cadre.

Ani added that 188,315 and 378,315 applicants applied for the Inspector and Police Constable (PC) cadres respectively.

The commission recently

said in a statement that it would recruit 500 Cadet ASPs, 500 Cadet Inspectors, 1,500 Specialist Officers and 7, 500 Constables in the recruitment of 10,000 policemen.

NAN reports that President Muhammadu Buhari approved the recruitment of 10,000 policemen into the nation’s Police Force to reinforce the police for better service.

(NAN)

he federal government yesterday said it has designed mass housing units to soothe the six geo-political zones in the country.

Speaking at the 9th Architects Colloquium Conference in Abuja, the Minister of Power, Works and Housing, Engr. Babatunde Fashola , ably represented by Arc. Sani Gidado, said the project will commence as soon as the budget is passed.

He stated that the reason behind the design was because of the geographical locations and environment, saying unlike the past mass housing units were build uniformly without considering environment and location to soothe the people .

He said for over sixteen years government has stop financing housing directly, but the present government has reversed the trend and is bent on financing mass housing across the six geo political zone.

Also the FCT minister, Muhammadu Bello ,ably represented by Arc. Ikenna Ekeredu said about eight million housing would be built out of the seventeen million housing units proposed by the federal government in the FCT to accommodate the people.

The minister said he will soon carry out the implementation of the Abuja master plan, as well as review urban planning , settlement and development policies in the FCT in order to address the issues of collapsed building.

PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESday, april 27, 2016

PAGE 7

News

Army uncovers Boko Haram’s new dressing mode, identification A

Man bags 3 months imprisonment for stealing kola nuts

T

he Nigerian Army said on Tuesday that its troops had uncovered Boko Haram’s new mode of dressing and means of identification.

This is contained in a statement issued in Abuja by the acting Director of Army Public Relations, Col. Sani Usman.

According to the Army spokesman, Boko Haram fighters are now identified with uniform

made of green-colour material and use of ropes on their legs and neck.

Usman said the discovery was the latest development in the ongoing clearance operation against remnants of the Boko Haram terrorists in the NorthEast.

He said troops of 22 Brigade Garrison and 3 Battalion made the discovery on Monday while on a long range fighting patrol

of Gima village in Ngala Local Government Area of Borno.

Usman said the troops came in contact with some elements of the Boko Haram insurgents in the area who scampered to safety on sighting the team.

He said the team was, however, able to apprehend two terrorists in their new-styled uniform during the operation at Gima village.

He added that the patrol team

recovered one Isuzu Canter lorry which was concealed with grasses, five motorcycles and two bags of gunieacorn.

The Army spokesman listed other items recovered in the operation as three Dane guns, a solar panel, three bows and arrows, among others.

He said the arrested suspected insurgents were currently being interrogated to further assist in the clearance operation. (NAN)

Mararaba Upper Area Court, Nasarawa State, on Tuesday sentenced a 19-year-old man, Yohana Peter, to three months imprisonment for stealing three pieces of kola nut.

The presiding officer, Vincent Gwehemba, however, gave the convict an option to pay N1, 000 fine, and warned him to desist from committing crime.

Peter, a resident of Hope Bakery in Angwa Katainawa, Mararaba, had pleaded guilty to a one-count charge of theft.

He pleaded with the court to temper justice with mercy, that he will not do it again.

The Prosecutor, Donald Herman, had told the court that on April 17, one Friday Idu and two others came to Sani Abacha Police Station, Mararaba and reported the matter.

Herman said on the same date, at about 2:20 p.m., the convict was arrested with three pieces of kola nut, three pieces of chew gum and five pieces of eggs.

He said that during police investigation, the convict confessed to the crime, that he stole them from somebody’s shop in that area.

The prosecutor said the offence contravened Section 287 of the Penal Code. (NAN)

Nigerian Navy releases 300 bags of seized rice to Customs

T L-R: Chairman, Senate Committee on Agriculture, Senator Abdullahi Adamu, his counterpart of the House of Representatives, Hon. Mohammed Tahir Mangono and Deputy Chairman of the House Committee on Agriculture Production and Services, Hon. Muktar Mohammed, during the public hearing on the need to address the incessant clashes between Herdsmen, Farmers and their Host Communities in Nigeria, at the National Assembly, yesterday in Abuja.

Photo: Mahmud Isa

Keffi Federal Medical Centre hands over fake BBC journalists to police

From Gambo Ahmed, Lafia

T

he authority of the Federal Medical Centre, Keffi in Nasarawa State, has handed over one Nura Mohammed who claimed to be the North Central Nigeria correspondent with British Broadcasting Corporation(BBC) Hausa to police for prosecution.

Addressing journalists at the Medical Centre in Keffi Monday, the Chief Medical Director, Dr. Gyan Joshua directed the Chief Security Officer of the centre, Monday Adamu to hand over the culprit to the Nigeria police for investigation.

According to him, “When Nura Mohammed came to the center board room for an interview with

me.“Mr.Nura Mohammed told me that he was the North Central State correspondent of BBC Hausa and wanted to have an interview with me to clear some issues leveled against this centre which bordered on allegations of corruption, misappropriation of funds, employment scam among others”.

“He also told me that, he went to FMC, Bida, Niger state along with the Minister of Health, Professor Isaac Adewole to commission an NHIS building which later proved to be false when I contacted the FMC, Bida, Niger state medical director on the commissioning of the NHIS building,” he added.

“After my investigation with the Assistance Public Relation

Office of the centre (Bida), it was discovered that Mr. Nura Mohammed was not a reporter with the BBC Hausa at all and that they don’t even have any BBC reporter or correspondent in Nasarawa state,” he said.

He further maintained that it is a serious offence in the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria for anyone to impersonate and urged the police not to allow the fake BBC reporter go free.

Dr. Giyan urged the police to prosecute the impersonator according to the rule of the law and also advised the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) to deal with the impersonator in order to serve as deterrent to others.

He, however, denied the said allegations of misappropriation of fund, employment scam and shortage of qualified doctors, adding that such allegations are coming from those that do not wish the centre and the country well.

The Medical Director also reinstated the commitment of the centre to continue to improve on the welfare of its staff and called on the staff of the centre to complement government efforts through hard work in order to ensure quality service delivery.

When contacted, the Area Commander of Keffi police command, ACP Shehu Abdullahi confirmed that the suspected fake BBC reporter is in their custody, adding that investigation into the matter has since commenced.

he Nigerian Navy Forward Operating Base, Badagry, on Tuesday handed over 300 bags of rice seized along the coastline from smugglers, to the Nigeria Customs Service, Seme Command.

The Commandant of the Nigerian Naval Base in Badagry, Navy Capt. Simon Dogo, said that the seizures were made along the coast at Tongeji Island in Badagry.

Dogo said that the seizures were made as a result of intelligence gathering and tip-off by the officers. ``Over the weekend, the officials of the Navy seized 300 bags of rice from smugglers at the Tongeji Island. ``The seizures were made possible through intelligence gathering and a tip-off the officials got, the commandant said. ``The moment we got the information, we laid ambush for them on both ways and they easily fell into our hands and no casualty was recorded, ‘’ the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) quotes the commandant as saying.

He said, ``The smugglers tried to bribe the officials who made the interception but they resisted because we are determined to eradicate all that would affect the economy of the country.’’ ``Due to the synergy that exists between the Customs and the Navy, we have handed over the seized items so that the Customs can carry out further investigation,’’ Dogo said.

The Controller of NCS, Seme Command, Comptroller Victor Dimka, commended the efforts of the Navy and promised to maintain the synergy between both agencies.

Dimka said that the suspects and the seized items would be handed over to the Marine Unit of Customs, whose primary responsibility ``is mainly to combat smuggling along the waterways’’. (NAN)

PAGE 8

PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESday, april 27, 2016

News French Govt to assist Nigeria achieve food sufficiency - Envoy

T

he French Government on Tuesday pledged to assist Nigeria with technology and machinery that would aid its food sufficiency agenda.

Mr Laurent Polonceaux, the Consul General of France in Nigeria, said this at the opening ceremony of the Second Agrofood and Plastprintpack Exhibition organised by Fairtrade in Lagos.

Polonceaux said France would promote technological exchange and cooperation between Nigerian agro-food producers and suppliers to make the agenda a success.

He said the Federal Government’s diversification into agriculture held huge opportunities for the economy.

Mr Martin Marz, Managing

Director, Fairtrade said the fair was to support the country’s agro-food industry to meet its challenges in food hygiene, food safety and cost efficiency.

He said the food and beverage sectors were the largest segment of the country’s manufacturing industry because they had generated over 1.5 million jobs and engaged five per cent of the workforce.

Marz said the show was in response to the growth, demand and vitality of the country’s agrofood industry.

According to him, a World Trade Organisation (WTO) report reveals that food importation to Nigeria increased from 4.5 billion dollars in 2010 to 8.5 billion dollars

in 2014.

He said Nigeria’s food export grew from 2.9 billion dollars in 2010 to 4.9 billion dollars in 2014.

Ms Martina Claus, Project Manager Africa, German Engineering Federation (VDMA), said increased awareness and prosperity of the people were responsible for the growth of Nigerian’s food and packaging industry.

She said Nigeria’s import of food processing and packaging machinery increased from 198 million Euros to 381 million Euro between 2010 and 2014.

“During the same period, imports of packaging machinery and equipment increased from 85 million euros to 201 million euros,

showing a 136 per cent increase.

“Imports of plastic machinery grew by 61 per cent from 54 million Euros to 87 million Euros,” she said.

Ms Mosunmola Umoru, Technical Adviser to the Minister of Agriculture, said the diversification agenda of the government would not thrive without quality packaging of its produce.

She urged the exhibitors to partner with Nigerians in proffering packaging solutions that would make the country’s products acceptable for export.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that 86 exhibitors from 21 European countries are attending the fair which ends on April 28.

L-R: Representative of the minister of environment, Mr Friday Akurue; minister of State mines and steel development, Abubakar Bawa Bwari, and Acting Chairman, revenue mobilization allocation and fiscal commission, Umar Wana, during the role of mining sector in diversifying the revenue base of the Nigerian economy, yesterday in Abuja

CAN urges FG to address insecurity, fuel scarcity, electricity, others

T

he Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has called on Federal Government to resolve the lingering problem of insecurity, power outage and fuel scarcity and other issues affecting the masses.

A statement signed by the association’s Public Relation Officer in the 19 Northern states and the FCT, Rev. Joseph Hayab, on Tuesday in Kaduna, said that Nigerians were suffering and there was urgent need for government to act.

``The popularity of the present administration in the country is rapidly diminishing due to the prevailing problems of insecurity, power and fuel scarcity.

“What Nigerians need urgently is availability of fuel, electricity, prompt salary, security of lives and property, amongst other issues that are begging for urgent answers.

“The government should address the security threat posed by the spate of Fulani herdsmen attacks in the country leading to

the death of thousands of innocent Nigerians.

“Government must equally as a matter of urgency, arrest the acute shortage of power supply that is crippling our economic activities,” it said.

The association also advised the Federal Government to ignore calls by mischievous Nigerians calling for the arrest of former President Goodluck Jonathan.

“Such call will only set a wrong precedence in the political

development of our dear nation and open doors for mischievous people to set the country into confusion.

“It is our opinion that such action if taken, with the current economic realities will throw the country into chaos,’’ the statement said.

CAN said that the call for the arrest was mainly designed to distract Nigerians from asking for the dividend of democracy due to them based on the change they voted for. (NAN)

Mosquito nets reduce malaria cases in Zamfara - Official From Ibrahim Gusau

Sidi

Muh’d,

The utilisation of the distributed 2.6 Long Lasting Insecticide Nets (LLIN) by the targeted communities in Zamfara state has succeeded in decreasing malaria cases been recorded by hospitals in the state.

This was made known by the Zamfara State Programme Manager (SPM), Hamisu Abdullahi Dauran while commemorating the 2016 World Malaria Day in collaboration with the state ministry of health on monday in Gusau, the state capital.

“However, malaria remains on of the leading causes of outpatient attendance in Zamfara state. More so, according to NDHS 2013, the percentage of pregnant women who receive IPT during an ANC visit for NorthWest is very low with Zamfara among the lowest in the region”, the Programme Manager said.

The SPM informed that, surveys and investigations conducted by competitive concerned bodies across hospitals in the state, have shown that the threatening rate of malaria cases are fast decreasing, a clear indication that, the targeted communities have judiciously used the 2.6 distributed LLIN which was supported by the President Malaria Initiative (PMI).

“I am happy to announce that, the utilisation of nets has increased from 9% to 56 in Zamfara state. Despite the progress being made in the fight against malaria, we recognised that there is still room for improvement.

“I urge all stakeholders to continue to work with the state ministry of health and state malaria elimination programme towards the total eradication of malaria”, Abdullahi Dauran appreciates.

FG holds symposium to mark world day on safety health

By Albert Akota

A

s part of activities marking this year’s World Day for Safety and Health at Work, The Honourable Minister of Labour and Employment, Sen. Chris Nwabueze Ngige is scheduled to declare open a symposium to mark the annual international campaign to promote safety, health and decent work in accordance to the International labour Organization

(ILO) standard.

The World Day for Safety and Health at Work is an annual international campaign against millions of workers losing their lives through accident and diseases linked to their work, hence the celebration on 28th of April annually as it has been observed by the International Labour Organisation ILO since 2003.

The Minister of Labour and Employment Sen. Dr. Chris

Ngige will on Thursday 28th, April 2016 host stakeholders and social partners at the symposium and launch a commemorative safety poster as well as a reviewed Occupational Safety and Health Inspection Checklist to strengthen the National Occupational Safety and Health Inspection system.

According to the ILO convention C187, National Occupational Safety and Health culture is one in which the right

to a safe and healthy working environment is respected at all levels, where governments, employers and workers actively participate in securing a safe and healthy working environment through a system of defined rights, responsibilities and duties, and where the highest priority is accorded to the principle of prevention.

The theme of this year’s celebration; ‘Workplace Stress: A collective Challenge is no

doubt apt against the backdrop of workplace stress becoming a common and costly problem.

Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Inspection Checklist is for purpose of uniformity and effective (OSH) Inspection System as well as providing a useful tool for self evaluation at enterprise level.

The need for promotion of OSH compliance through the cooperation of all cannot be over emphasized.

PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESday, april 27, 2016

PAGE 9

325, 000 IDPs in 5 N/East states get Red Cross life line From Ahmed Kaigama, Bauchi

T

he International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), in collaboration with the Nigeria Red Cross Society (NRCS), said on Tuesday that it had assisted 325,000 Internally Displaced Persons(IDPs), in five states of the country with foodstuff and household materials in 2015.

A document titled “Facts and Figures 2015” and made available to the Newsmen in Bauchi by Aliyu Dawobe, Operational Field Communication Officer, Jos SubDelegation, said.

The document named IDPs in Adamawa, Borno, Edo, Gombe and Yobe States as those that had benefited from the gesture.

It said that foodstuff, maize

seeds and fertilizer were given to 8,700 families who had earlier fled from Mubi, Plateau and Kaduna violence but later returned to their communities to enable them restart their livelihood.

The document said that 104,000 IDPs out of the 1.5 million people that sought refuge in Maiduguri metropolis following escalation of violence in the North East zone were assisted with water facilities, sanitation and hygiene.

It said that 1,500 widows affected by the armed arm conflict and 7,600 IDPs in Yola and Maiduguri were provided with tents, shelters and roofing materials while 130 latrines were built in various camps in Maiduguri.

“The ICRC is currently supporting 10 Primary Health Care Centres (PHCs), in Borno and

Adamawa states while it had posted surgical team to provide surgical care to IDPs who had sustained injuries.

“It has train hospital staff in the treatment and management of weapon wounded IDPs while it rehabilitated 10 PHCs, supplied equipment and medicines in Borno and Adamawa currently serving 380,000 IDPs and host communities.

“The surgical team has attended to 246 patients who sustained various injuries from bomb blasts and gunshots at the Maiduguri State Specialist Hospital,” the document added.

It revealed that ICRC in collaboration with the Nigerian Army had trained over 2,400 persons living in violence prone areas on First Aid techniques.

According to the document ICRC had made 1,490 free phone calls available to people who had lost links their families while it had opened tracing files for 1,143 people.

It said ICRC had visited military and police detention facilities as well as prisons to link persons deprived of freedom with their families during the period under review.

The document shows that 140 Nigerian Surgeons and Emergency staff were trained in the management of weapon wounded persons and emergency response during mass casualty incidents.

It said that ICRC and NRCS were working towards reuniting family members who lost contacts with other members of their families within Lake Chad region.

L-R: Lagos state commissioner for information and strategy, Mr Steve Ayorinde; commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation (WAPA), mrs Lola Akande; Permanent Secretary of WAPA, Mrs Nike Oduwole, and Director of public affairs, Lagos state ministry of information and strategy, Mrs Toro Oladapo, during a news conference to mark one year of Governor Akinwumi Ambode’s administration in Lagos .

Photo: NAN

NGOs urge increased funding for family health

From Ahmed Kaigama, Bauchi

A

Coalition of NGOs, Partnership for Advocacy in Child and Family Health, PACFah, has charged the Bauchi state House of Assembly to ensure appropriation of adequate funding in budgetary allocations to Child Family Health (CFH).

The leader of the team, Mrs

Chioma Kanu made the charge when members of the civil organizations paid an advocacy visit to the Assembly members at the Assembly complex in Bauchi yesterday.

Kanu urged them to exercise legislative oversight function on the executive towards implementation of Child Family Health

interventions as outlined in the recommendations.

Also speaking, the technical consultant of Child and Health, Abuja, Dr Mohammed Saleh said that the organization was in the state to key into existing structures of the state by working with the executive and legislature to engage the government on key challenges that affect family and

child health as well as breaching the gap between healthcare providers.

He noted that funding support for logistic activities in family planning was a challenge in most states of the federation and called on the state assembly to exercise oversight legislative function that will improve the health sector in the state.

News FG’s agenda includes physically challenged - Labour Minister

By Albert Akota

F

ollowing interactions at the last Saturday’s edition of Radio Link, a Radio Nigeria network phone-in programme, during which Minister of Labour and Employment, Sen. Chris Ngige was the guest and a physically challenged from Otukpo, Benue State, Mr Godwin Achime has been invited for further discussions with the Minister.

A statement by the Deputy Director Press in the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, Samuel Olowokere says the decision to invite Mr. Achime is in furtherance of the passionate and compassionate commitment of the Buhari administration to not only take along every segment of the Nigerian society in its policies and programmes but ensure that enough attention is paid to the upliftment of the physically challenged.

The Minister noted that the Social Intervention progrmme of the APC led Federal government has a special safety net under the Conditional Cash Transfer (CCT) which is targeted at empowering the physically challenged.

“It is the genuine concern for their welfare that made President Buhari appoint a physically challenged as his Special Adviser on Disability. This has never happened before in our history as a nation,” he said. “ The Ministry of Labour will therefore in addition make sure that those who are physically challenged, educated and uneducated will also be trained in various skills and vocations which we are unfolding, so that they can employ themselves, earn a decent living, and even employ others.”

“The Nigerian Directorate of Employment (NDE) at present has been has been empowered to provide to provide special skills acquisition assistance in her Skills Acquisition Centres all over the Federation.”

“We have plans to train some of them in information technology; to repair telephones, computers among others. Those with impaired limbs could be given artificial limbs and be trained to be tailors while the blind can be taught skills using special computers. There are many life endeavours they fit into depending on the type of disability and the aid available, “the Minister further explained.

Youth Vanguard warns critics over attack on sport minister

From Ado Abubakar Musa,Jos

T

he people of Tarok Nation in the North-central Nigeria have commended President Muhammadu Buhari for appointing Bar. Solomon Dalung as Minister of Sports Development in his cabinet.

The Tarok mostly found in Langtang North and South is one the privileged areas in the history of Nigeria that produced

prominent army Generals including, General Domkat Bali, Lt General Jeremiah Useni ,General Joshua Nimmyel Dogonyaro ,General John Nanzip Shagaya, Air marshal Jonah Wuyep and others.

The area has also recorded its mark in the politics of Nigeria pointer of the fact that it produces the first National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic.

Party (PDP) Solomon Lar, that

ruled the country for sixteenth uninterrupted years.

But the recent appointment of Solomon Dalung as minister of youth and sports by the APC administration seems to be having a crack, a circumstances, the Youth Vanguard in the area vow to challenge any body that is not happy with appointment of Hon. Dalung.

The Youth Vanguard described as unfortunate the

misleading report in a national daily, not Peoples Daily calling on President Muhammadu Buhari to fire the youth and sports minister over improper dressing.

The spokesman of the Ngwan Ishi OTarok (NIO) , Comrade Nankpak Wuyep Bali gave this warning in a press statement issued to Journalists ,urging him to stop criticizing the minister of Sports on media .

He said, “it is absolutely unfortunate that President Buhari in his own wisdom appointed that man a minister,Buhari might think the sports ministry is a dumping ground for any minister but that is the key to the future”.

So we want to advise that Mr Disu should be careful while making public statement which is capable of disintegrating the nation.

PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESday, april 27, 2016

PAGE 10

News Edo ‘ll pay workers’ salaries despite N1.4bn deficit - Oshiomhole

By Osaigbovo Iguobaro, Benin

E

do state governor, Adams Oshiomhole, on Tuesday, assured that the shortfall of N1.4 billion from the Federation Account, will not prevent the state from meeting her statutory wage obligation to workers before the end of the month.

The Governor said the state got only N1.6 billion from the Federation Account for the month of March 2016 which was shared this month, while wages and overheads and other basic necessary expenditure will gulp about N3 billion.

Oshiomhole disclosed this during a visit of the newly elected leadership of the Trade Union

Congress (TUC), at the Government House in Benin City, where he stated that it was more complex to explain to active workers why their salaries should be delayed in the face economic distress.

He admitted that “things are tough, but, said: This month, Edo State Government received from the Federation Account N1.6 billion. I will need about N3 billion to pay wages and overheads and other basic things that are not negotiable, which means we have a deficit of about N1.4 billion. But we will pay the workers before the 30th, before May Day, they must get their money.

“It is a lot easier for the government to explain poor finances. It is far more complex to explain how in the face of the crisis

in the country, how a worker is able to go to work, stay at work, put in eight hours work, find his way back home, provide for his wife and then hug the children as a father that cares with a salary of twenty thousand.

He said the state Head of Service has been directed to put necessary modalities in place to fast track the process for the promotion of workers in the state workforce, with a view to avert the danger of passing the financial burden to his successor.

According to him, what the ruling class spends is the only money that often flies out of the country. So, if we are going to keep the economy going, we need to spend more money on the productive force so that the money

can circulate.

Speaking earlier, the newly elected chairman of the Trade Union Congress, Comrade Marshall Ohue, recalled how the new leadership emerged in the Trade Union Congress of the Edo State Council and said, the state Governor has done well since he assumed duty as the Governor of the state over seven years ago.

The TUC chairman, the former Labour Leader, has ech his name in gold with the state of infrastructure, including the ultramodern hospital.

“I also want to thank you in the area of payment of salaries even in the midst of dwindling economy of the nation, when many states find it difficult to pay their workforce.

L-R: Governor of Niger State, Alhaji Abubakar Sani Bello presenting the relief materials to Mallama Hassana Abubakar, during the flag off of distribution of Relief Materials to Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) at the Government House Minna on Monday in Niger State.

Niger Gov, ex gov Aliyu console Etsu Nupe over wife’s death

From Yakubu Mustapha, Minna

N

iger State Governor, Alhaji Abubakar Sani Bello has expressed shock at the sudden death of Hajiya Fatima Bintu Bagudu, the youngest wife of the chairman, State Council of Traditional Rulers, Estu Nupe, Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar.

She died on Sunday night at the National Hospital, Abuja after a brief illness at the age of 30.

The governor lamented that though all mortals must taste death, the early departure of the Etsu’s wife was so painful in view of her modest achievements within her brief stay.

Also the former governor of Niger state, Dr. Mu’azu Babangida Aliyu has condoled with Etsu Nupe,Alhaji Yahaya over the death of his wife,Hajiya Fatima Bintu Bagudu,(Maami).

The spokesman to the former governor, Mr. Israel Ebije, said Aliyu expressed shock over the death in a signed statement and prayed that “Allah grant her Aljanna Firdaus”. He lamented that she would be missed as a wife and confidant to the Etsu Nupe.

According to Bello, “Though no one can determine when he or she will answer the call of the creator, we are only grieved now because Hajiya Fatima Bintu Bagudu, the wife of our esteemed and highly revered Etsu Nupe passed on at a very tender age.

“She will not only be missed by the Palace for her humility but by the entire Emirate Council for her doggedness in the promotion and preservation of Nupe culture”.

The late Bagudu was buried on Monday after a Janaiza prayers led by the Chief Imam of Bida, Sheik Adamu Yakatun at the Etsu’s palace in Bida.

ICPC Report: Tension mounts in Benue

From Uche Nnorom, Makurdi

T

ension has continued to mount in Benue State over last week’s report by the Independent, Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), which indicted the State government of diverting the N28 billion bailout funds.

This is just as officials of the State government are battling

hard to deny the report.

Speaking with journalists yesterday at the Peoples’ Government House, Makurdi, the State Commissioner for Finance, David Olofu stated clearly that the alleged N1.2 billion bailout fund was used to augment November and December 2015 salaries of workers.

Olofu who added that the balance of N1 billion is left out of the N15,5 billion meant for

payment of local government staff from the bailout funds, maintained that government is ready to pay workers with genuine complaints from the money.

But it should be noted that Governor Samuel Ortom had often told Benue people that the money was intact, assuring them that no money will be diverted. The governor comments came against widespread allegations that over N1 billion was diverted by the

office of the Special Adviser on Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs.

On his part, the Commissioner for Information Mr. Odeh Ageh explained that the N37, 760,000 alleged to have been doubly paid to the office of the Deputy Governor was remittance of salaries and emoluments to Lobi Stars Football, club players and officials.

“Like you, the Benue State Deputy Governor is the chairman

of Lobi Stars FC and his office where the bank for Lobi Stars funds is domiciled, handles all matters affecting the club including payment of salaries and allowance.

“The two(2) payments cited by ICPC reports cover arrears owed from the second half of December 2014 to the second half of February 2015 period. There is nothing like double payment to the office of the Deputy Governor”, Ageh said.

or clash with farmers and land owners.

Saeedu Maikano who is the National President of the group gave the warning yesterday while speaking to journalists in Jos on how some herdsmen went around with their cattle, calling on them to desist from entering into

peoples farmlands.

According to him, the present situation surrounding pastoraling in Nigeria had made it necessary to warn herdsmen particularly now that the raining season was approaching as clashes between the waring parties intensified.

While calling on the herdsmen to put more efforts in controlling their cattle, the president also called on the federal government to as a matter of urgency look into the issue of grazing reserve that had become a serious challenge to pastoralists, noting that many of the gazetted grazing areas have

been encroached by communities and farmers.

Maikano said, “Grazing reserve will be the best solution to farmer, herders clash especially in the middle belt where hostilities between pastoralists and farmers have claimed many lives.”

Fulani group warns herdsmen against encroaching farmlands, towns with cattle From Ado Abubakar Musa, Jos

A

Fulani youths group popularly known as Jonde Jam Fulani Youth Association has warned Fulani herdsmen in Nigeria to avoid letting their cattle into farmlands and towns to preventing any crisis

PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESday, april 27, 2016

Page 11

PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESday, april 27, 2016

PAGE 12

Opinion Are we having too much of PMB?

By Sunday Attah

I

am always amused to observe the look on people’s faces whenever I tell them that drinking too much water can kill them. Yes. This same water for which we get several viral posts telling us how we should drink eight glasses daily can be potentially fatal if overindulged.

Mind you this is not drowning.

The term “water poisoning” or “water intoxication” never come to mind for many people. According to Wikipedia, “Water intoxication, also known as water poisoning, is a otentially fatal disturbance in brain functions that results when the normal balance of electrolytes in the body is pushed outside safe limits by over-hydration.”

But this write up is not about bio-chemical analysis. The water poisoning part is to underscore the truism that “too much of anything is bad” and I dare say this includes too much of even a good thing. This is precisely my concern about our over fixation and obsession with our President Muhammadu Buhari in our expectations of taming national challenges.

Like partakers in a water drinking competition, oblivious to the potential of dying from water poisoning, we have collectively decided on having too much of President Buhari to the detriment of our collective well-being. From the way things are presently configured, Nigerians will gladly refer their marital strain and waning appetite to Mr President if they have the opportunity. Making ourselves

addicted to President Buhari as the answer to Nigeria’s needs already poses its own set of dangers if we paused to properly take stuck.

First, I worry that a lot of the people who accepted national assignments under Mr President will hide their ineptitude under his imposing aura. All they have to do is bandy President Buhari’s name and they get the equivalent of their sins being forgiven. Under normal circumstances, the bulk stops on a minister’s table for any failing or inaction in that ministry. The same applies to other appointees of Mr President that are manning government organisations. But if we continue along the current trajectory there is the risk that complacency will set in as the president’s appointees will see no reason to take ownership of their sphere of influence if the citizens already have the mind-set of holding only the president responsible.

Secondly, I already see a pattern of overwhelming the Presidency with demands that should be channeled elsewhere. From where and how I see it, this has the potential to force the nation’s highest office into micromanaging on a scale that can only lead to catastrophic outcomes.

For instance, if the transport situation in Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory has become chaotic because commercial cyclists, tricycle riders and shared taxi drivers are running riot, this should be the Minister of FCT’s headache.

Even though the FCT is the Federal Government’s responsibility, President Buhari already appointed someone as minister and we are

at liberty to make the transport situation in the territory part of the minister’s scorecard. Why should the president get bogged down in managing the traffic situation in just one of the nation’s scores of cities?

Furthermore, we should all be afraid of setting problematic precedents. If we presently have an energetic and zealous president who is passionate about making a difference, what happens if we ever come to a situation where the president is unable to function on the scale that the incumbent currently does. I suspect the system will simply shut down in that case.

Part of the strategy for building systems therefore is to make the component ministries, departments and agencies of government pull their own weights so that they are able to address issues without overloading the Presidency. Those on leadership at these levels are not there on sabbaticals and we should quit treating them as such.

Fourthly, I currently find it difficult to make fair guesses as to which sector of our economy is not living up to billing. My present perception of the national situation has fused everything – state government, local government, ministries, agencies and commissions – into one fuzz ball that is Mr. President. This tendency, for citizens to create an illusion of super-unitary approach, flies in the face of the established concepts of three tiers and three arms of government.

We have to know what is working and what is not for us to make fair demands that will help

channel attention to where it is needed. I want to be able to know who has responsibility for what I am interested in: road, healthcare, security and other sectors on a case by case basis. I should even be able to approach the right tier of government as well.

Also, there is the risk of other strategic aspects of our lives being neglected as we all fixate on Mr. President’s most pressing tasks – security, anticorruption and economy in this case. I am seeing a situation where appointees who should be running their own organisation stubbornly try to create linkages between their assignments and these focal points even when they are not mutually inclusive.

Some of the challenges we knew before this government came into power are being addressed.

In my estimate, Mr President’s well thought appointments of the competent persons as military Service Chiefs with a firm anticorruption stance that ensure needed equipment were procured has empowered the army to contain Boko Haram terrorists.

Clearing the security hurdle has paved the way for us to be talking economic direction. When we have charted the economic direction we must move on to other sectors and it is crucial that they are not caught napping when it is time to make them the national focus.

But what are we saying about the other sectors? We should be asking those tasked with youths employment about what they are doing. We should be tasking those responsible for reviving industry

what they have come with so far. We should not wait for Mr. President to make pronouncement about fertilizers and grain storage when some people already have the assignment of making this happen seamlessly. We mustn’t face protracted union strikes before we dig into details of plans to bring education up to par with global standards. When there is economic boom in a secured country we will individually have health issues to deal with so we should ask those running the health sector what we should expect. These things should run concurrently and not wait for Mr. President to relocate to their headquarters before they know the urgency of their roles even though they are not on the front burner right now.

My prescription is that while we all join President Buhari in constantly having a helicopter view of the big picture we must also use our expertise and areas of interest to monitor the small pictures.

We should as citizens use our constitutional rights to oversight sectoral activities and hold officials to account and possibly flag any failing for Mr. President to then act on. This is the way we can save the nation from this our own version of water drinking contest of who is most fanatical about our PMB. It is important we do this because we cannot risk the possibility of “water intoxication” from fixating too much on Mr. President.

must be First Timer. Though the seed for this has been planted some years ago, but only now is the fruit coming to blossom.

Again the consensus of opinion then was that the introduction must be gradual. It was for this reason that over the past five years, the percentage of first timer are being increased systematically from 80/90 percent. But this year, all the pilgrims from the state would be First Timers except for the officials in line with the best practice obtained in other parts of the Muslim world.

Apart from affording new comers opportunity to perform their spiritual obligation, this policy would also reduce the fraud lent practices witnessed during registration as more often than not fraudster usually exploit the desperate nature of some First Timer to defraud them.

Perhaps, one of the most important development will be “digital wrist-band.” This is a personal tracking mechanism with blue-chip device that would help locate Nigerian pilgrims at any given time or point in the Holy Land.

This innovation is coming against the background of the ugly incident that occurred last year, when hundreds of Nigerian pilgrims died as a result of stampede at the Jammat, while several other missing pilgrims are yet to be identified or located.

The wrist-band device contained all the personal data and information of every pilgrims and will serve as a trucking device during the pilgrimage. With this device, it would be bye-bye to “missing” Nigerian pilgrims. Aside

this, it would also prevent identity problem. It is common knowledge that the Saudi authorities assumed that every black African pilgrim is a Nigerian, therefore with the wristband, there won’t be any more case of other African countries claiming to be Nigerian again.

In line with the current Federal Government campaign against corruption, the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) also launch a campaign to tackle fraud relating to the Hajj. It has been observed over the years that many fraudulent Hajj and Umrah operators target Muslims planning to go on pilgrimage. Therefore, as part of the national campaign, the commission has forwarded names of some Tour companies to the Economic and Financial Crime Commission (EFCC) for prosecution.

The chairman/ CEO, Barr Abdullahi Mukhtar Muhammed (MON) has also warned the operators to desist or be ready to face the music.

At the inaugural stakeholders meeting between (NAHCON) and the Licensed Tour Operators in |Abuja recently, warned that the commission would not tolerate any company not ready to abide by the (NAHCON) guidelines and the Saudi regulations.

According to him, it won’t be business as usual as the commission has zero-tolerance for corruption or any related activities, and that he would not hesitate to de-list any company that has its fingers in all the ‘cooks and jars’.

It is also quite important to kick-up the breeze before the Hajj proper, so that many of the intending pilgrims can differentiate between FACTS and FALLACIES.

First of all, with the insistence and cooperation of (NAHCON), the 36 states boards/agencies have feature and focus more on the provision of comfortable accommodation for pilgrims in Makkah and Medina.

The states have secured good accommodation with either a grade A or B status – meaning it is no longer business as usual in terms of the qualities of accommodation to the pilgrims. It is however, not only in quality that the pilgrims will breathe a sigh of relief, but also in the distance particularly in Medina where hitherto pilgrims are accommodated far apart from one another.

The ongoing modernization in Madina has seen many buildings on hitherto Nigerian favoured residential areas pulled down for infrastructural development.

They are now to be situated in the Markaziyah Reservation Area of which just a stone throw away from the Haram in Medina.

Imagine the situation where a pilgrim got down from his house and just walk into the Haram mosque in Medina.

It will also be a good day for pilgrims during the Muna/Arafat day in terms of transportation system. Though Nigerians and indeed the non-Arab African are still looking forward to the day when they too would begin to enjoy the mono-train service.

However, it is a heart warming news that beginning from this year, Nigerian pilgrims would be saved from being transport in old buses.

The reality of the new situation is that the Saudi Transport Agency has phased and all manufactured buses prior to 2008, so our

pilgrims would now be conveyed in luxurious buses.

While the Muslim would want to quickly forget the unfortunate incident that happened last year when hundreds of them met their untimely death during the Jamrat as a result of stampede, it wouldn’t be an over statement to say that the harsh weather contributed greatly to the high death rate. On the basis of this, the commission has made it a duty to convince the service providers in Saudi Arabia to install cooling system in Arafat tent to prevent dehydration.

Also as part of the forward looking idea, the Commission has been networking on how to ensure the Nigerian pilgrims could also witness a changed atmosphere in Muna where Nigerians nay non-African Arabs have became constant as a northern star in the outskirt of Muna/Muzdalifa boundary area. NAHCON and the Nigeria government have been deeply concerned about the plights of Nigerian pilgrims and mounted diplomatic pressure to ensure our pilgrims are relocated from the hitherto traditional area.

It is therefore a cherry news that the Saudi government has promised to change the creation nearest to the JAMRAT AREA. If this is achieved, it portends that the elderly Nigerian pilgrims and the indigent would literally walk into the stone-throwing sites from the cocoon of their instead of the longhour trek to the most important Hajj sites.

Attah is a Public Affairs Commentator based in Abuja.

NAHCON: Entrenching a new order

By Mousa Ubandawaki

W

ith the lunar month of Rajab winding down, the nation’s 85 million Muslim population have begun to set their eyes on the performance of the Holy pilgrimage to Makkah like their counterparts in other parts of the world.

For them, this once in a lifetime spiritual journey offers spiritual cleansing as according to the Prophet Muhammad (PBOH) “anyone who successfully performs hajj in accordance with and in the spirit of and injunctions of Allah, is not only entitled to a divine peace and blessing on earth, but a promise of Abode of Paradise as a reward.”

It was therefore in line with the age long trite that “whoever fails to plan, planned to fail” that the management of (NAHCON) created a new architecture to ensure that Nigerian pilgrims have full value for their money.”

Since the conclusion of the 2015 Hajj, the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has introduced several “digital” programme packed with new innovative features.

Looking back at the last six months, it has been glorious times for Hajj in Nigeria as the Sokoto House (the Commission headquarters) has become a ‘Theatre of Dream with ‘the introduction of new guidelines and rules that will definitely improve the service and welfare of Nigerian pilgrims.

One of the innovations that the commission has brought into the fore is the insistence that all pilgrims from the state boards

Mousa Ubandawaki is a staff of National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), Abuja.

PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESday, april 27, 2016

PAGE 13

Comment Africa: ‘Decisive moment for democracy’

By John Kerry

L

ast May, I shared in an extraordinary moment. I had the privilege, together with many leaders from across Africa, of bearing witness to the first peaceful, democratic transition of power between two parties in Nigeria.

I traveled to Lagos earlier this year to emphasize that for the United States, Nigeria is an increasingly important strategic partner with a critical role to play in the security and prosperity of the region. I also said that it was imperative that these elections set a new standard for democracy across the continent.

There is no question that this is a decisive moment for democracy in Africa. Later this month, four countries – Guinea, Tanzania, Côte d’Ivoire, and the Central African Republic – are scheduled to hold presidential elections, and soon after we hope to see elections in Burkina Faso. People across Africa must seize this opportunity to make their voices heard; and leaders

across the continent must listen.

The challenges are real. For decades, poverty, famine, war, and authoritarian leadership have held back an era of African prosperity and stability.

These and other challenges should not be underestimated, but neither should we ignore the gains that are being made.

In Africa, as elsewhere, there is a deep hunger for governments that are legitimate, honest, and effective. We should have no doubt that progress in democratic governance will lead to gains in every other field about which we are concerned.

In Burkina Faso, brave and determined citizens twice asserted their will in successfully opposing efforts to curtail the democratic process: last year, when the former president sought to alter term limits and extend his 27 years in office; and again last month, when Burkinabes rallied against a failed attempt to seize power by elements of the Presidential Security Regiment.

In the Democratic Republic

of the Congo, we have seen citizens speak out, sometimes at great personal risk, to push for transparent, timely, and credible elections.

And we have seen that same hunger for democracy outside of Africa. Indonesia, Sri Lanka and Panama all recently held inclusive, well-organized elections that brought new leaders to power and strengthened democratic institutions.

The challenge in Africa’s upcoming elections is to meet this demand for democracy and live up to the standards that Africans expect and deserve. The countries scheduled to go to the polls vary widely in their history and circumstances, but each has an opportunity to enhance its democratic credentials and advance economic growth and shared prosperity.

Côte d’Ivoire can put a difficult and violent election in 2010 firmly in its past and resume its position as a regional leader.

Tanzania is preparing for its fourth transition of power

between elected Presidents since independence. By respecting the Tanzanian constitution’s twoterm limit and stepping down from office, President Jakaya Kikwete is creating a dynamic and healthy competition among potential successors.

Guinea is emerging from the scourge of Ebola, but its citizens are also calling for an electoral process that allows their voices to be heard.

Meanwhile, the transitional government in Burkina Faso is working towards cementing its commitment to democracy through timely and transparent elections.

Elections are vitally important, but make no mistake: elections cannot be the only moment for citizens to shape their future.

People must be able to engage with their government and with their fellow citizens in political discussion and debate not just on Election Day, but every day.

Just as important is respect for term limits. No democracy is served when its leaders alter

national constitutions for personal or political gain. Furthermore, a losing candidate owes it to his or her country to accept the outcome and play a constructive role in finding and implementing solutions to shared challenges.

A free, fair and peaceful presidential election does not guarantee a successful democracy, but it is one of the most important measuring sticks for progress in any developing nation. The countries soon holding elections have an opportunity to bolster their democratic credentials and to bring an entire continent closer to realizing the firmly held – and eminently justifiable – aspirations of its people to have their voices heard.

The United States remains committed to helping make those aspirations a reality.

which make most children to lose immunity thereby making them vulnerable to any disease attack.

Generally, when a child loses immunity, the possibility of losing such a child is high.

It is this state of affairs that is partly responsible for the high infant mortality rate in Nigeria. A recent Federal Government study affirms that a great proportion of Nigerian children experience defective growth as a result of malnutrition. Similarly, a data from the Summary of Findings of National Nutrition and Health Survey conducted from February 9 to May 5, 2014, showed that Nigeria has a stunting incidence of 32 per cent among children that are under five years and about 21 per cent underweight. Another report says that the proportion of children, who are wasted, or too thin for their height in the country, has progressively increased in recent years.

Experts have equally revealed that about four out of five Nigerian children fall below the WHO’s approval for exclusive breastfeeding during the first six months of life, while 70 per cent of children ages six to 23 months are not receiving the minimum suitable diet. According to a UNICEF data, 1.1million Nigerian children are in danger of adverse malnutrition. Another report has revealed that chronic malnutrition is rampant among children in the northern parts of the country. This, of course, has adverse effects on the learning ability of the children.

Having been established that poor nutrition negatively affects the mental development and intellectual capacity of children, it should not be startling that we

presently have poor educational culture in the country.

As previously stressed, malnutrition occurs as a result of too little food or a diet lacking in nutrients, but it could also be caused by a variety of other factors which could be physical, social or psychological. Naturally, aged people often have health challenges that often lead to declined appetite.

Some crucial phases of life like infancy, childhood, adolescence, pregnancy and old age require additional nourishment than others, and people in these groups might be at a higher risk. Surgery, trauma, infections, burns and chronic diseases can equally affect nutritional needs and increase the chance of malnutrition.

Other crucial causes of malnutrition could be a chronic illness, use of definite medications, difficulty swallowing or absorbing nutrients, a recent hospitalisation, or a weakened sense of taste or smell.

Equally, dietary restrictions such as limits on salt, fat, protein or sugar intake, tough could help manage certain medical conditions, but might also contribute to malnutrition.

Grief, loneliness, failing health, too much alcohol may contribute to depression leading to a loss of appetite.

For anyone having issues with malnutrition, the first rational thing to do is to go for blood tests.

One of the tests is a test of blood sugar. It is, however, essential to state that, perhaps, the most important thing to do is to identify and restore lost nutrients. A good balanced diet would ensure that the body does not, in any way, suffer from malnutrition.

Good nutrition is critical to

the overall health and well-being of every human being. And unlike what many erroneously believe, it does not actually cost so much to imbibe a consistent balanced diet culture. What is really essential is for everyone to, first and foremost, appreciate the necessity for a balanced diet. Therefore, it is imperative for all and sundry to have a modest knowledge of why we eat what we eat, knowing the health benefits that various foods possess, how they affect our bodies, and how our bodies react when these types of foods become insufficient.

Malnourishment is not about the quantity of food a person eats, but actually about the nutritional quality of what he eats. A person can eat relentlessly, be obese, and still be malnourished, because the idea of proper nourishment is really about giving the body what it requires to function appropriately. Consequently, a malnourished person may need to steadily boost calories intake through numerous little meals at regular intervals during the day.

Additionally, dietary supplements, or liquid nutrition, may be needed, depending on the level of the malnutrition. In severe cases, hospitalisation could be necessary.

One measure to stop malnutrition is by giving micronutrient supplements and de-worming as well as behavioural changes such as cleanliness, immunisation and complementary feeding. Perhaps, more importantly, especially in view of the magnitude of the challenge posed by malnutrition in the country, the Federal Government through its relevant MDAs must continue

to collaborate with all major stakeholders in order to effectively deal with the problem of malnutrition. This could involve strategic use of communication for development as a vehicle to drive public enlightenment campaigns and achieve expected behavioural change. Equally, the Health and Information organs of all state and local governments in the country need to come up with the required enlightenment strategies that could speedily stem the tide of malnourishment in the country.

It is key to commend the recent partnership between UNICEF and the Federal Government which gave birth to a communitybased management of acute malnourishment for severely malnourished children in 11 northern states. It is, however, essential that the necessary funding that is needed to properly drive the initiative is adequately provided.

This is particularly necessary in view of the not too exciting reports that that two out of every three children in the 11 northern states presently getting CMAM have yet to receive the treatment because of lack of funds. It would, however, not be out of place for corporate bodies and other well-meaning individuals come up with such similar initiatives. The Bill Gates polio initiative is a pointer to the fact that nothing should be spared in upholding the sanctity of life.

This is the only investment that endures forever.

John Kerry, a former U.S. Senator from Massachusetts who chaired the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, has been the U.S. Secretary of State since 2013.

Malnutrition and child mortality in Nigeria M

By Tayo Ogunbiyi

alnutrition, which is simply a state of being under-nourished, is usually associated with people living under severe circumstances.

It often occurs as a result of natural disasters, wars, or from living in underdeveloped parts of the world. During the Great Depression, malnutrition was of the leading health issues.

Victims of malnutrition are easily vulnerable to ill-health.

It is important to stress that malnutrition is not actually the same thing as hunger. It is a condition that arises from insufficient calories or nutrients intake. Child nutrition and malnutrition could be a major threat to the population of any society as well as to the muchneeded intellectual competence in major disciplines which are existing and potential motivating forces for speedy and sustainable socio-economic growth.

Its symptoms include weight loss, tiredness, dizziness, brittle nails, constant diarrhea, slow wound healing, bone or joint pain and confusion. Children may become extremely thin, have stunted growth or have a swollen gut.

In Nigeria, the malnutrition situation, especially among children, is quite alarming.

According to a UNICEF 2015 report, about 1.7 million severely underfed children are in ominous need of treatment in Nigeria.

Experts have, indeed, revealed that malnutrition is a principal cause of death among children in the country. The problem with malnutrition in children is that it leads to diarrhea-related problems

Ogunbiyi is of the Features Unit, Lagos State Ministry of Information and Strategy, Alausa, Ikeja.

PAGE 14

PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESday, april 27, 2016

News Scarcity: Marketers threaten to stop supplying Kaduna fuel

By Mashe Umaru Gwamna

T

he present fuel scarcity that is being experienced in Kaduna may just be a joke compared to what would be experienced if the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) carry out the threat of boycotting supply of the product to Kaduna over their present conflict with the Kaduna State

Government, Department for Petroleum Resources (DPR) and the National Security and Civil Defence Corps.

IPMAN in a press briefing on Monday in Kaduna threatened to halt the supply of petrol to Kaduna because of unfair practices of those mentioned above.

National Publicity Secretary of IPMAN, Alhaji Yakubu Suleiman said that it was unfair for their members to go

to independent marketers in Lagos and source for products at exorbitant rates and sell same at government prices.

He explained that besides the high rate at which they purchase at Lagos, they still spend money on haulage of the products, only for the government to enforce them to sell at government approved rate, a situation they described as unacceptable.

Suleiman said that the union

as well meaning Nigerians would love to sell at government pump price because it would benefit the public whom they are out to serve, but cannot do so at a loss.

He called on the Kaduna State Government, DPR and NSCDC to look into their predicament and organize a roundtable discussion, where they would meet and iron out those grey areas before things get out of hand.

Kbegi Filling Station Manager, Alhaji Sani Jimoh Total (4th left) with friends after his wedding fatiha at Sultan Bello mosque, Ungwar Sarki, Kaduna

Community wants Kwara primary school named after Prof Jimoh

From Olanrewaju Lawal, Ilorin

T

he President of Pakata Patriot,Ilorin,Kwara State,Mallam Shehu Ahmad Aliyu has urged the Kwara state government to rename Oke-Pakata LGEA School after late Professor Shehu Jimoh.

The community leader who stated this during the silver jubilee anniversary of the Association and public presentation of its book entitles; Our illustrious Icons: A biography of selected prominent people of Pakata Area,Ilorin 1831-2015”, said the late Jimoh had contributed a lot to the development of education in the

state.

Late Professor Jimoh, was a Professor at the University of Ilorin, was chairman Board of Directors,Kwara State Polytechnic, Ilorin among others.

While justifying his plea, Aliyu said late Jimoh lived all his life impacting knowledge and was a committed leader during his life span.

The association also urged Ilorin West LGEA to rename Pakata Health Centre after Alhaji Amori Gidado, who was a distinguished statesman stressing that his career was symbolised Pakata and Ilorin heroism.

“Our verifiable research findings

revealed that eminent gentleman was the most influential elite of Pakata origin of his generation,if not so far, whose strategic interventions and encouragement led to the enrolment in schools, job placement and career advancement of nearly all the succeeding and surviving westerneducated senior citizens of Pakata Area and its environment.

“He was all in all in that respect between 1934 and 1964 when he died.

“I also plead that the OkePakata LGEA School should also be renamed after that celebrated educationist and committed community leader,Professor

Shehu Jimoh who lived all his life impacting knowledge.

“Granting those great heroes such an honour will not only generate questions from the highly inquisitive younger generations we are now producing but would also propel them to work for such recognition now and in future”.

The Association which commended the state Government for appointed Mr. AbdulLateef Femi Adebayo, son of popular Film Producer and Artist,Oga Bello as Special Assistant on Arts, Culture and Tourism said they look forward for the construction of Ubandawaki street which link Pakata roundabout.

Association urges govt to provide adequate funds for scientific research

By Usman Shuaibu

T

he management of Science Association of Nigeria (SAN) on Monday called on the Federal Government to deem it necessary to provide adequate funds for scientific research in the country.

Speaking at the occasion, the vice-chairman of the University, Prof. Michael Adikwu, charged the government to always gear up towards the development of science in the society.

Adikwu thanked the leadership of SAN for choosing the University of Abuja to host the 50th golden jubilee of the association.

Also speaking, the president of SAN, Prof. (Rev.) Stephen Olugbemiga Owa, said that the SAN would continue to partner with the government for the sake of scientific development in the country.

He said; “It is the belief of SAN that Nigeria will develop better and faster when governments engaged the services and expertise of its scientific community’s”.

This, according to the SAN president, government should consult NAS, SAN and other affiliates for the recommendation of appointees who will hold scientific positions in Nigeria.

On her part, the Dean of Faculty of Science at the University of Abuja, Prof. Funke Wosilat Abdul-Rahman, urged the government to take the scientists along in the scheme of things, noting that no nation could move forward technologically without the contributions of scientists.

The Dean, however, advised the scientists to continue to perform their functions in the society for the benefit of national development.

The 50th golden jubilee anniversary conference of SAN which tagged “Science for National Growth and Development” featured the papers presentation by the invited personalities which include; the chairman/ chief executive of Nigeria Atomic Energy Commission (NAEC), Mr. Erepamo Osaisai and the Director in charge of the Entrepreneurship centre at the University of Abuja, Prof. E.A Aiyedun among other personalities.

Meanwhile, the Katsina State commissioner for Education, Prof. Halimatu Sa’adiyya Idrisu was honoured by the authorities of SAN alongside other personalities during the occasion.

Nasarawa Poly to establish Radio/TV station

D

r Silas Gyar, Rector of Nasarawa State Polytechnic, Lafia, said the institution had concluded plans to establish a local Radio and Television station.

The rector disclosed this on Tuesday in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in

his office in Lafia.

According to him, the decision is to strengthen the Mass Communication Department of the institution.

“The station will not just strengthen the department, but will also help in disseminating information within the campus

and the entire state.

“The management is working round the clock to secure a broadcast license so that the Mass Communication Department can start transmission on Naspoly Broadcasting Service (NPBS).

“The NPBS, when established, will help in disseminating

information about activities on the campus to the immediate community and its environs,” he said.

The rector said that the department had secured stateof-the-art equipment, and has competent manpower to run the stations.

He said that the polytechnic

was awaiting full accreditation

by National Board for Technical Education to commence the project.

Gyar commended the Nasarawa State Government for building male and female hostels in the institution, and appealed for more support. (NAN)

PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESday, april 27, 2016

Make peace with Aganaba, APC group tells Sylva

By Umar Muhammad Puma

A

group, United Democratic Front, has called on the former governor of Bayelsa state, Chief Timipre Sylva, to make peace with a Senatorial candidate of the party in the last election, Engr. Preye Aganaba, instead of waging social media war against him.

A statement signed yesterday in Abuja by the coordinator of the group, Tellanyo Ikoko, said Engr. Aganaba has contributed immensely to the formation and election victory of the APC beyond being accused of ingratitude.

“That he bought form for the Senate in 2015. How a group of people would want to make story out of this rather innocuous fact is very puzzling. Aganaba is a man who proudly represented his party and gave his best for the election of Buhari that should be the important thing.”

The group said: “Sylva contested for national chairmanship of the APC and lost, ran for the senate and lost to Ben Bruce, a man who he termed a ‘white man’, a man who entered Bayelsa state for the first time during that election, and finally he lost the governorship elections in a landslide to a very unpopular governor.

“As governor, he was stoned by his own people before former president Goodluck Jonathan removed him very easily from office. With these, he lacks the moral patronage to accuse anyone of desperation and if he does it goes to show his deep seated frustration and desperation.”

The group therefore, called on the former governor and his group to eschew “some of their present attributes and sue for forgiveness and then peace.

“From experience they should know this path only leads to political humiliation. We urge the general public to appreciate the words and actions of this group of people with a discerning eye.”

PAGE 15

DSS arrests Saraki’s SSA on youth affairs

By Ikechukwu Okaforadi

T

he Department of State Services (DSS) has arrested the Senior Special Assistant to the Senate President on Youths and Students Matters, Ikenga Imo Ugochinyere, allegedly over the resolution by the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) to sack the Minister of Youths and Sports, Solomon Dalung, from the NYCN Board.

In a statement by his brother, Obinna Ikeagwuonu, the family said that Ikenga informed his family of his invitation to the office

of the DSS yesterday by 10:00hrs, on the call of the Assistant Director Internal Security.

“He has not been seen nor heard from since the time he entered the premises of the DSS. Every attempt by his family, lawyers and personal physician to have access to him have been resisted by the security outfit”, the statement said.

Ikenga, who is also the President of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) and also Senior Special Assistant to the Senate President on Youth and Students Matters.

The statement also said the

NYCN President was reportedly arrested for his loyalty to the Senate President, Bukola Saraki, who is presently standing trial at the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT) over alleged false asset declaration.

While pointing out that the family has been withstanding immense pressure from Nigerian youths on whereabouts of their President, the statement also they have limits to their strength to withstand this pressure if Nigeria youths want to approach the State and demand for the whereabouts of their President.

“We must state that unofficial

Members of Citizen United for Peace and Stability, during their protest on non Passage of 2016 Budget and Demanding Resignation of Senate President, at the National Assembly, yesterday in Abuja.

Photo: Mahmud Isa

information reaching his family is that he was interrogated on two issues: a petition authored by the Minister of Youths and Sports Development, Barr. Solomon Dalung, who we are informed, was indefinitely suspended from the Board of the National Youth Council of Nigeria and also calling on President Muhammadu Buhari to summarily sack him as Minister.

“If truly this is one of the questions for which he is illegally detained without access to food, water, legal and medical assistance, then that is impunity at the highest level and we condemn it. Ikenga we are informed has not been shown any petition so far.

“Ikenga is a law abiding citizen who has approached the courts in defence of his mandate that Solomon Dalung has severally boasted he will snatch from Ikenga.

His lawyers have initiated contempt proceedings against Mr. Dalung and instead of the Minister to go to court; he is using his office and institutions of State to attempt to intimidate Ikenga”, the statement said.

It further said the NYCN President was alleged to be working with people who the state is not happy with, pointing out that if these people who the state is not happy with refer to the Senate President, then he will remain proud of his relationship and association with Saraki and will remain bold to stand by him.

“Ikenga will not deny Saraki because of oppression of the state.

The intelligence we give the DSS is that Ikenga stands strong in the face of intimidation, oppression and persecution of the innocent.

That is what he has lived his entire life for and they must have realized that by now”, it added.

Cleric urges Nigerians to pray for Buhari to succeed in fighting terrorism

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staz Shuaibu Ismail, Chairman, Jammatul Izalatul Bidaya Wayikamatul Sunna (JIBWS) Nasarawa state branch has stressed the need for Nigerians to pray for President Buhari to succeed in fighting terrorism.

Ismail gave the charge at the closing ceremony of its Qur’anic recitation competition for Lafia Local government area held at Lafia-East Jumaat Mosque yesterday.

He explained that the present administration of President Buhari needs prayers to succeed in fighting insurgency, stressing that with prayers and commitment by government, security treat will soon be a thing of the past.

While calling on Nigerians

to assist security operatives with useful information’s whenever the need arises to enable them succeed, Ismail maintained that fighting terrorism is the responsibility of all as everyone has a role to play in this regard.

According to him, “President Buhari need our prayers to overcome the too numerous challenges he met, to address the nations problem “.

He also commended him for confronting corruption which is one of the major problems confronting the country.

The cleric also appealed to Nigerians to be patient with the president as the situation had been muddled even before he assumed office, and we should join forces with him to move the nation

forward.

“Nobody has the instant answer to our problems, it has to be done gradually, as such we should join hands with him to enable him find lasting solutions to the mirage of problems he inherited”, the cleric said Speaking on the essence of Qur’anic recitation competition, the JIBWS Chairman said it is among other things to instill the desire for memorization of the Holy Book of Islam among the younger ones He described the holy Qur’an as a book of Allah, which contained knowledge about the life of mankind on heart and the hereafter.

He however commended the organizing committee of the competition for a job well-done.

Also speaking, National

Secretary of the competition, Hafiz Abdulmuminin-Aliyu who described the desired to learn and make good use of the instruction contained in the Holy Qur’an has blessed by Allah charged believers to seek for religious knowledge in order to have a proper direction.

He said everyone can contribute to the growth of Islam as such no one should undermine his or her position in life, even as he called on those who have the means not to relent in contributing to the propagation of Islam.

NAN reports that Suleiman Jafar-Musa emerged the overall winner with 89.6 marks and was turbaned in line with the tradition of the Qur’anic recitation competition. (NAN)

PAGE 16

PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESday, april 27, 2016

Politics

Occupy NASS: Protest can’t force Saraki to resign- Senator Ndume

By Ali Abare Abubakar

F

ollowing the commencement of an organized protest by a coalition of civil societies known as “Occupy National Assembly”, yesterday demanding for the resignation of the Senate President, Bukola Saraki over his ongoing trial for false assets declaration, Senate Leader, Senator Mohammed Ali-Ndume, has said no protest can force Saraki out of office.

Ndume made this position known yesterday while interacting with the press shortly after the senate adjourned, describing the

protest as a “wrong precedence and anti-democratic’’.

According to Ndume (APC, Borno South) the senate has refrained from making any official comment on the protest because according to him, it doesn’t portends good for the country’s democracy.

“That is why we are not trying to say anything about them because what is happening out there is a very dangerous precedence that we are trying to set.

“I contested to represent Borno South.

“I did not force myself on my people and therefore somebody

out there, especially the one that did not elect me cannot force me out because I didn’t come in by force.

“I came in by ballot not by gun, not by placard, I have posters not placards.

“So, if for example, I am short of performance and my constituents feel that they do not have time to waste, there is a clear-cut process by which they can ask me to be recalled.

“They will collect signatures, ask for me to be recalled, that is the democratic way, not by coming in here to stand and say you want to occupy NASS.

“You occupy NASS to do what, to be leader or to be senator? It does not work that way,” he said.

He said there were constitutional means of recalling elected members and not by carrying placards.

In their hundreds youths had besieged the National Assembly demanding for the resignation of the Senate President, Bukola Saraki.

The youths also wanted Senators who have collected the N36m Jeep bought for them by the Bukola Saraki led Senate to immediately return the cars or face a possible showdown from the Nigerian public.

Chairman of National Assembly Legislative Aids Forum, Mr. Sam Melaye (right), presenting a recognition certificate to Ahmmed Isah a radio presenter while the South South coordinator of the Barrister Banni (left) and Director General of the forum, Mr. Abdulahi Ojunugwa (2nd right), on Monday at National Assembly.

Photo: Mahmud Isa

Alleged assault on lawmaker: Reps recommend dismissal of prison officer

By Umar Muhammad Puma

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ollowing a public hearing conducted to investigate the alleged assault on a lawmaker by the convoy of the Comptroller of Prison Service, the House ad-hoc committee has recommended that the Senior Inspector of Prison, Idaa Odeh who slapped the member, be dismissed from service with immediate effect.

“From the testimonies of

six credible witnesses, it was established beyond reasonable doubt that SIP Idaa Odeh with service number 40258, assaulted Hon Oyemachi Mrapor and therefore guilty of offence under section 16 of the Legislative Houses Powers and Privileges act.

The committee also approved disciplinary action on the Assistant Comptroller General (ACG), Budget and Finance who came down from his vehicle and confronted the lawmaker, .

For refusal to appear before the committee, DCG Usman Shehu Kangiwa with service number 28446, and for obstructing a member of parliament within the precinct of the National Assembly, be arrested and tried in accordance with section 11 and 16 of legislative Houses by the Attorney General of the Federation.

The committee also recommended that Corporal Esther Hassan, ASP Sunday Akoh of the Nigerian police and

Adeboye I.O. of the Department of State Security Service should be disciplined and immediately reprimanded and redeployed.

Part of the recommendations also included training and retraining of all resident security agencies in the National Assembly, and the complete overhaul of the office of Sergeant -At-Arms.

The House of Representatives is expected to consider the recommendations of the ad-hoc committee today plenary.

Commissioner nominee: Bakura solicits support for citizens From David Hassan, Gombe

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ormer commissioner of Trade and Industry, Alhaji Mohammed Bakura Bajoga has solicited support from citizens of Gombe state.

Alhaji Bakura stated this yesterday shortly after been screened as commissioner nominee

by members of Gombe state House of Assembly.

He appreciated the gesture offered by Governor Ibrahim Hassan Dankwambo which according to him will go a long way in developing the state.

While commending the effort of the governor, Bakura said he will do his best to ensure that government

programmes are sustained.

He however pledged that if sworn-in into office, remarkable achievement would be his major priority.

According to him, “I will continue to work hard to ensure that programmes within the ministry are done correctly”.

Speaking further, he assured the

public of total commitment which he said he would not hesitate to carry every one alone and appeal to them to give audience in ordered to support governor Dankwambo and its programmes.

He thanked the governor for finding him worthy to serve even as he promised to work effectively to ensure the success of government.

Reps member lambasts INEC for refusal to conduct election into restored constituency From Uche Nnorom, Makurdi

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ember of the House of Representatives for Kwande/ Ushongo Federal Constituency, Hon. Benjamin Wayo has frowned at adamant refusal by the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, to conduct election into two (2) restored, state House of assembly constituencies in Ushongo.

It should be noted that a Federal High Court has since 2005 ordered INEC to restore a suppressed constituency and conduct election into two constituencies in Ushongo by whatever name but the election body has deferred that order and continued to conduct election in just one constituency.

Worried by this, some prominent indigenes of the area had approached the same Federal High Court for an enforcement of the order which has still not been implemented by INEC. Hon. Wayo lamented that the continued refusal by INEC to comply with the court decision amounts to contempt of court, adding that all elections conducted in the one constituency remains null and void.

He also, averred that the restoration and conduct of election into the 2 constituencies is of priority interest to the people now than the position of speaker presently occupied by Ushongo.

“The people are saying we need our constituencies back. If it is the will of God that Terkimbir Ikyange will remain speaker, it would be. But, we should look beyond personal interest.

The Interest of the people, the concern of the constituency and community is above any other interest. There would be more development to the area if this is done”, Wayo opined.

The federal lawmaker regretted the continued attack on the people of Moon in Kwande local government area by Fulani herdsmen, noting the neglect by the state and federal government on the people.

“For more than 3 years now, over 5,000 persons have displaced from their homes and their source of livelihood destroyed yet both state and federal governments have not paid any attention to done. I had raised this on the floor of the House to draw government attention to the suffering of my constituents. There has been no palliative measures whatsoever given to the people”, he decried.

PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESday, april 27, 2016

PAGE 17

Politics Forum urges citizens to hold government accountable

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Hon Dr. Mohammad Sani Abdu (left) with distinguished Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso after an event, recently in Kano.

Kogi APC leaders accuse Bello of relegating party to opposition

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lders and stakeholders in the Kogi State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) have accused Governor Yahaya Bello of relegating the party to the position of “an opposition”.

The party chieftains, who stated this in a communique issued in Lokoja yesterday, described the development as worrisome and an insult on the intelligence of voters that trooped out in their thousands to vote the APC in all the elections held in 2015.

The communique was signed

by Sen. Nicholas Yahaya Ugbane, Kogi East ; Sen. Salihu Ohize , Kogi

Central and Chief Dare Olatunde , Kogi West, who also doubles as the Secretary, Kogi APC Elders/ Stakeholders Forum.

“The anti-party activities of Alhaji Yahaya Bello before, during and after the Nov. 21, 2015 gubernatorial election, which has currently turn a winning APC party to a position of an opposition party in the state is worrisome ”We equally view with concern the leadership style of Gov. Yahaya Bello which has alienated the party (APC) and propped up members of the supposed opposition PDP in running the affairs of Kogi State,”

the communique added.

They called on the national leadership of the party to immediately intervene before the situation “degenerates”, insisting that the crises foisted on the party by the emergence of Bello as the governor of the state must be resolved on the bases of equity, fairness and justice.

According to the communique, the party leaders also expressed their support for the vote of no confidence passed on the governor by the state party executives.

Similarly, the stakeholders urged President Muhammadu Buhari to prevail on the Minister

of Justice and Attorney-General of the federation, Mr Abubakar Malami, to stop meddling in the internal affairs of the APC in the state.

“The problem he created for Kogi State is still lingering. We also disapprove his recent advice to the Inspector -General of Police on the takeover of the functions of the Kogi State House of Assembly by the National Assembly.

“We see this as an affront on the rule of law and the constitution, and a deliberate attempt to cause a rift between the legislative and executive arms of government,” the communique said. (NAN)

Exit of Yuguda from PDP would not affect fortune of party-Chieftain From Ahmed Kaigama, Bauchi

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chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Bauchi, Hon Abdulrazaq Nuhu Zaki said the exit of former governor of Bauchi, Isa Yuguda from PDP would not affect the fortune of the party in the state.

Nuhu Zaki who stated this while reacting to the report of Yuguda’s exit from the party yesterday in Bauchi, said it was a welcomed development that will

rather bring unity of the party in the state.

“Yuguda leaving the PDP has come as a happy and welcome development. With his exit, a huge yoke has been lifted off the neck of PDP in the state ’’ Zaki said.

According to him, the party was engulfed by crisis that tore it apart into factions by the leaders who want to take control of the party in the state.

“With God on our side, the PDP would emerge victorious in the coming elections as we are working

hard to see that we reposition the party to the next level ,’’ he said.

Zaki stressed that Yuguda’s exit “is a blessing not only to the good people of the state but also generally to the well being of our great party in the country because the persisting crisis of leadership will disappear.

“We therefore wish to assure our National Chairman, Alhaji Ali Modu Sheriff and the entire leadership of our great party of our unalloyed loyalty and support as he continues to pilot the affairs of the

party PDP. As we journey towards 2019, we wish to state categorically that the exit of Yuguda will not affect the fortune, progress and prosperity of our great PDP in the state.”

Hon Nuhu Zaki who was the member representing Ningi/Warji Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives at the 7th Assembly, urged members of the party to remain resolute towards rebuilding the party towards victory.

he Healthwatch Forum, an NGO, has urged Nigerians to hold government responsible for any failure in service delivery.

Dr Chikwe Ihekweazu, a public health consultant and Editor of Nigeria Health Watch, made the call at the Healthwatch Forum with the theme ``Active Citizenship for Health’’ yesterday in Abuja.

He noted that health issues were not adequately captured in the political agenda of the government.

Ihekweazu described the forum as a process of making government accountable to its responsibilities, among others.

According to him, the time has come for Nigerian populace to express their views with regards to challenges faced in an attempt to access healthcare services. ``If you do not provoke government to actions by way of crying out loud to every misfortune situations it will not rise up to its responsibilities. ``We are not going to be quiet anymore and be docile recipients of government charity, we want to be actively engaged in an unconfrontational manner and contribute to defining our health system. ``It is not only the poor that are affected in health system failure but among the elites they die too because they do not have access to emergency care they need. ``Ultimately what we are talking about is not just for the poor but we are all affected, we have to mobilise Nigerians to realise that this is not what we can live for few people but we all have to engage with them,’’ he said.

Dr Ben Ayene, Chairman of Health Reform Foundation of Nigeria (HERFON) Board of Trustee, also observed that the health system as a whole was not accountable.

Ayene noted that accountability should first of all start from the individual, describing them as constituting the system.

He assured of the commitment of the forum to put stakeholders together to work toward the betterment of the nation’s health system.

Speaking also at the event, Mr Joseph Amenaghawon, the Programme Coordinator, Open Society Initiative for West Africa, decried the nonchalant attitude of medical doctors and other hospital workers.

He noted that a lot of them are not opened to patients and their respective families, adding that efforts should be geared towards addressing this challenge, among others. (NAN)

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PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESday, april 27, 2016

Politics

Clerk appointment: NASS Commission rejects Saraki’s directive

By Ikechukwu Okaforadi

C

hairman of National Assembly Service Commission, Adamu Fika, yesterday responded to Senate President Bukola Saraki request to reverse appointment of Mohammed Sani- Omolori as Acting Clerk of National Assembly.

The Commission said the appointment of Sani-Omolori still stands because considering Acting Deputy Clerk of National Assembly, Benedict Efeturi, for the Acting Clerk is against Nigeria Public Service rules.

The commission had last week Wednesday, appointed Sani – Omolori, the Clerk of the House of Representatives, as the new Acting Clerk of the National Assembly to replace the outgoing Clerk, Salisu Maikasuwa, who will proceed on a terminal leave on May 14.

However, Senate President

had in letter made available to the media last week Friday directed, Fika to withdraw appointment of Sani-Omolori and consider Efeturi, as acting Clerk of National Assembly.

But, Fika in letter dated April 26 with Ref no NASC/CHO/ PS/11/11/28 addressed to President of the Senate said considering the appointment of Efeturi is absolute against the Nigeria Public Service because will proceed on his pre-retirement leave on 2nd August, 2016, twelve days before the incumbent clerk will be due to handover to his successor, adding that Sani-Omolori is also a senior Efeturi in the service.

He said in conformity with the convention and practices of the service no officer who has less than six months to retire would act in higher office.

Fika said, “I wish to refer to your letter on the above subject matter

issued on your behalf by your Chief of Staff, Senator Isa Galaudu.

“The letter was instructing the Executive Chairman, National Assembly Service Commission to withdraw the letter appointing Mr. Mohammed A. Sani—Omolori as the Acting Clerk of the National Assembly for the period that the incumbent Clerk to the National Assembly will be on Pre-retirement leave from the 14‘h May to 14th August 2016.

“The above decision was taken at the Commission’s 440th meeting held on the 20th day of April 2016. The Commission took into account the fact that Mr. Benedict Efeturi will himself proceed on his Pre-retirement leave on 20th August 2016, twelve days before the incumbent Clerk will be due to hand over to his successor.

“This means that Mr. Efeturi is time barred for the Acting

Appointment, hence the choice of Mr. Sani-Omolori to act and ensure continuity in that very important Public Service office where he will serve for the next five years”.

In a related development, as the battle for a new Clerk of the National Assembly hits up, facts emerged yesterday on how forces ganged up to frustrate the Senate President’s letter mandating the withdrawal of the recent appointment issued to Omolori.

A senior member of the National Assembly bureaucracy who pleaded for anonymity said yesterday that the rules is very clear on who should take over from the outgoing Clerk Alhaji Salisu Maikasuwa, insisting that it would be a violation of the international norms and it is never done anywhere in the world, that this action is a high level of injustice, which is capable of encouraging anarchy in the system to impose

Alhaji Mohammad Sani-Omolori who is a junior to EfeturI his senior in the hierarchy.

He warned yesterday that the appointment of Mr Sani-Omolori by the Chairman of the National Assembly Commission, Adamu Fika, is capable of injecting bad blood into the bureaucracy.

According to him, the civil service rules which recognise order of seniority in the appointment favoured Mr Efeturi and not Omolori in other to succeed the outgoing Clerk Alhaji Salisu Makasuwa.

He argued that Efeture, who was appointed substantive Deputy Clerk to the National Assembly in November 4, 2014 , is the most appropriate to take charge after Maikasuwa.

He also wondered what the fate of Mr Efeture if Omolori his junior is made acting Clerk, which he described as unfortunate.

Don’t be corrupt, House committee member tells LASTMA officers

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r Jude Idimogu, a member of the Lagos State House of Assembly Committee on Transport, yesterday charged officers of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) to avoid extortion.

Idimogu (PDP-Oshodi/Isolo II) gave the advice when the committee paid a visit to LASTMA office as part of the committee oversight functions.

The lawmaker said that motorists often allege that some corrupt officials of the authority extort money from them.

“Part of what we gathered is that the officials of LASTMA use touts to extort money from motorists in the state and this is against the rule of the state. “I urge you to desist from corrupt acts,” Idimogu said.

He said that members of the public were also watchdogs to the officials while carrying out their operation on the road. In his remark, the Managing Director of LASTMA, Mr Chris Olakpe promised to discourage all illegal practices and monitor officials of the authority more closely. ``The agency has set up monitoring and surveillance unit to guide against corrupt acts. ``I have injected police into the monitoring group to fish out the bad eggs among our officials’’, he said. Olakpe also urged the lawmakers to assist the authority, saying it needed fund to purchase some materials such as boots, coats, and motorcycles, among others.

Mr Fatai Mojeed , the Chairman of the Committee, assured the agency of the support of the House to enhance efficiency and effectiveness of the traffic managers.

NAN reports that the committee also visited the Lagos State Number Plate Production Authority among others in its oversight. (NAN)

L-R: Leader House of Representatives, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, Senior Special Assistant to President on National Assembly, Senator Ita Enang and Minster of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation, Alhaji Abubakar Malami, during the meeting on Kogi House of Assembly crisis, at the National Assembly on Monday in Abuja.

Photo: Mahmud Isa

Budget impasse: Dogara meets Buhari as Presidency keeps mum

By Lawrence Olaoye

S

peaker if the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Yakubu Dogara, yesterday held a closed door meeting with President Muhammadu Buhari in continuation of the search for an amicable resolution of the 2016 budget impasse.

The meeting which lasted less than one hour was attended by the Chief of Staff, (CoS) to the President, Abba Kyari and the

Senior Special Assistant to the President on National Assembly, (Senate), Senator Ita Enang.

But journalists were shut out from speaking to the Speaker, apparently on the orders of the President’s top security aides.

The Speaker, who arrived at the Presidential Villa at exactly 2.30 pm, came out of the President’s office at about 3.05 pm, exchanged pleasantries with some top officials of the Villa, before heading into his official

car. However, the President of the Senate, Abubakar, Bukola Saraki did not show up for the meeting.

The meeting between the President and the leadership of the National Assembly had been dominating the media since Friday last week when it was aborted at the dying minutes without explanation.

However, following protests from State House reporters about their inability to speak to Dogara,

the Chief of Staff simply retorted, “If the National Assembly leaders are to meet the President, and the Senate President is not around, the Speaker cannot talk.”

The Senate President, Bukola Saraki, is currently facing charges before the Code of Conduct Tribunal which has resolved to hear his case on daily basis.

Chances are that the Senate President could not attend the meeting because of his appearance before the tribunal.

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PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESday, april 27, 2016

L-R: Chairman\Publisher of The Guardian, Lady Maiden Ibru, presenting The Man of The Year 2015 Award to President \CE Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, during The Guardian Man of The Year 2015 Award presentation, at weekend in Lagos.

Kachikwu, Sirika collaborate to ensure aviation fuel availability

By Etuka Sunday

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he Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Dr. Ibe Kachikwu and his counterpart in the Aviation Ministry, Senator Hadi Sirika yesterday pledged collaboration to

eliminate the noticeable challenge faced by airline operators in accessing aviation fuel for their daily operations.

A statement by the Group General Manager, Group Public Affairs Division,Garba Deen Muhammad said, the GMD

received the Minister of State for Aviation and his team of Directors in a courtesy visit to the NNPC Towers in Abuja.

According to the statement, Dr. Kachikwu said that though the supply and distribution of JET A1 is outside the control of

government because it has since been deregulated, a meeting of importers of aviation fuel will soon be convened to address all challenges impeding the seamless supply of the product.

Dr. Kachikwu who also doubles as the Group Managing

Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC noted that though the refineries are not producing aviation fuel for now efforts would be made in due course to provide the enablers which would ensure local production in the near future. ``The immediate action point for now is to meet with all the importers of aviation fuel, we want to understand the consumption pattern and also look at their cost to ensure that they are not profiteering excessively,’’ the Minister said.

In his remarks, Senator Sirika noted that the need to ensure availability of JET A1 fuel has become imperative considering the fact that the product accounts for about 45 percent of the total

Dangote Cement revenue hits N140.5bn in Q1 2016

D

angote Cement has recorded a revenue of N140.5 billion in the first quarter ended March 31,

2016.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that this was against the N107.2 billion posted in the same period in 2015.

The figure is contained in the company’s unaudited result released on Tuesday in Lagos.

The report showed that the revenue increased by 22.5 per cent compared with the figure achieved

in the same period of 2015.

The company stated that total sales during the period under review stood at 6.4 million tonnes (MT) against 3.8 MT posted in 2015, indicating an increase of 68.4 per cent.

Its operating profit margin, the report stated, stood at N56.1 billion against N58.44 billion posted in the first quarter of 2015, showing a decrease of four per cent.

Commenting on the result, Mr Onne van der Weijde, the company’s Chief Executive Officer,

said that sales volume increased in all territories the company was operating.

He said sales in Nigeria increased by 45.4 per cent to 4.5 MT after a price reduction.

“As we forecast at the time of last September’s price cut, group operating profit margins were reduced by the impact of the lower price in our main market.

“That we are gaining substantial market shares so soon after launching operations across Africa is a testament to our

business model of competing with higher quality products produced at lower costs”, Weijde said.

He explained that the company’s success in these markets would position it for even better performance in the coming years as economies begin to recover.

He said that the company had begun work on new plants to meet future needs in Nigeria and Côte d’Ivoire.

The chief executive officer added that the company had

signed a Memorandum of Understanding for the financing and construction of its next wave of plants in Nigeria and beyond to reinforce its position as a global cement company.

NAN reports that Dangote Cement is Africa’s leading cement producer with nearly 44 mt capacity in three plants it operates in Nigeria.

It recently opened factories in Cameroon, Ethiopia, Senegal, South Africa, Tanzania and Zambia. (NAN)

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PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESday, april 27, 2016

Aviation Ex-Commandant urges synergy among security agencies to curb attacks at airports

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one time Airport Commandant and member of aviation industry think tank group, Aviation Round Table (ART), Group Captain John Ojikutu (RTD) has urge security agencies to share information in order to avoid a scenario akin to the Brussels Airport in Belgium where terrorists detonated explosives at the airport.

He said there is need to coordinate intelligence and security efforts by gathering and adequately sharing information across board.

The Chief Executive of Centurion Securities emphasized that the lessons from Brussels Airport goes beyond airport security calling for a national aviation security policy which emphasizes the role of intelligence in the gamut.

IOjikutu said,” The lessons from the Brussels terrorists attack is beyond airport security alone.

It is more about national aviation security and the role of intelligence in the aviation security defence layers.”

“It is about having names of valuable targets among the homegrown terrorists (BH) listed on watch list or no fly list. Remember, it took us about 8 years before we could start putting faces on those within the domestic terrorist cell before the military started putting those faces and names on the watch list.”

“The question we must be asking the responsible authorities is; are those on the military watch list on the watch list for aviation security or have the list been shared with responsible authorities at d airports on need to know?”

“It is about intelligence or security agencies sharing names on d watch list with airlines and airports operators; it is about the immigration services sharing passengers names records with other countries on principle of reciprocity as it is between done between US and European countries; it is about airlines having a system for advance passengers information services at the departure airport and sharing the information with destination airport. These are intelligence networks.”

He went on,” Secondly, because the airport passenger terminal hall is a public area and therefore a soft target, we now need screening machines at all access gates into d terminal halls with capability for detecting improvised explosive vapour. “ “We must be very concerned now about insider’s threats and must regularly conduct background checks on all staff working in d airport security controlled areas.

These intelligence work are not necessarily the job for sniffer dogs’.

“The Close Circuit Television (CCTV) is a good complement to airport security only if it can preempt the act of terror attack and not after the attack as it is now playing out in Brussels and had played out in other terror attacks before it in the 9/11, London, Milan and Paris attacks.”

Murtala Mohammed International Airport

Delays, pilferage, others top airlines challenges in 1st quarter- report Stories Lagos

from

Suleiman

Idris,

A

report by the Nigerian authority has shown that flight delays, luggage pilferage and cancellations permeate flight operations among airlines on the domestic and international routes.

The summary report released by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) also revealed complaints and discourteous behaviours among staff of airlines.

The report cover the month of January, February and March 2016.

Whilst a total of 1, 282 flights were operated by 35 airlines on the domestic and international

routes for January, eight domestic operators raked a whopping 3, 029 delayed incidents, representing 56 percent of the total 5, 399 flights they operated with 120 cancellations.

French carrier Air France were the worst airline as it recorded 104 cases of passengers luggage that were reportedly pilfered, had 31 delayed of it 81 flights with 133 unresolved complaints and inability to compensate travellers.

Passengers also reported discourteous behaviours among the airline staff and 361 cases of missing baggage found.

Nigeria’s flag carrier, Arik Air tops the chart with 205 flights, 96 delays, three cancelled flights with 28 unresolved complaints and compensation.

Emirates Airlines recorded the highest number of inbound and outbound passengers with 35, 774 incoming passengers and 36, 627 exiting the country.

Inbound passengers recorded by the 35 carriers stand at 221, 136 while 242, 711 departed the country’s airports for the first month of 2016.

The story did not fair better in February with a total of 1, 251 flights operated on international routes while 5, 143 flights operated on domestic routes.

The international carriers recorded 489 delays, eight cancellations, 571 missing baggage, 275 pilferage, 1,23, 572 inbound passengers and 138, 855 outbound passengers.

Their domestic counterparts

operated 5, 143 flights and recorded 2, 634 delays, 66 cancellations were recorded with 323, 489 inbound passengers while outbound passengers stands at 340, 413.

Aero Contractors operated 840 flights same period with 557 delays, 28 cancelled flights, 56, 186 total number of inbound passengers and 60, 227 outbound passengers.

For Arik, of it 1, 779 flights, 866 were delayed, 28 cancelled flights while the 8 domestic carriers had 2, 634 flight delays out of 5, 143 flights.

In March 2016, a total number of 1, 508 flights operated on international routes while 4, 892 flights operated on domestic routes.

Airbus launches H175 aircraft for oil and gas sector in Nigeria

L

eading aircraft manufacturer, Airbus has launched it Helicopters version with the promotion of the H175 through a demo tour in Lagos, Nigeria from 20 to 22 April among several key oil and gas operators.

Vice President, Head of Operational Marketing, Airbus Helicopters, Regis Magnac, disclosed that the aircraft was designed with the support of oil companies and helicopters operators.

He explained that the H175 offers cost competitiveness, performance and new standards of safety and comfort, adding that the aircraft is perfectly suited for oil and gas operators in Nigeria.

The Vice President stated

that the seven ton class H175 was developed by Airbus Helicopters as its new-generation medium-sized rotorcraft, certified in accordance with the latest and most demanding regulatory requirements.

He listed the benefits of the helicopter to include: enhanced flight safety, more volume per seat for passenger comfort, mission versatility, simplified maintenance and cost effectiveness to match customer expectations.

Magnac pointed out that within its class, the H175 offers the best operating range in relation to the number of passengers.

He stated that with 16 passengers aboard in an oil and gas configuration, it could fly to distances of 140 nautical miles (332KM), increasing to nearly 200

nautical miles (435 KM), when 12 passengers are carried in a long range configuration, with no auxiliary fuel tank required.

“In a higher density configuration, it can carry as many as 18 passengers up to 105 nautical miles (269 KM)”.

Speaking on why Airbus decided to carry out the promotion of the helicopter in Nigeria, the Vice President said, ”Nigeria is A very important country as it concerns oil and gas and the Airbus H175 will perform well in oil and gas and for Search and Rescue((SAR)”.

He hinted that that the first delivery of the Airbus H175 helicopter took place in December,14,2015.

On the comfort the H175

provides, Magnac disclosed that the helicopter’s fast cruise speed, large windows and low sound and vibration levels create a comfortable passenger journey offshore.

To further show case the latest product in the Airbus Helicopters brand, the helicopters undertook a demonstration flight for its new H175 product in Lagos on Thursday, April 21,2016.

On the cost of the newly unveiled rotary wing, Magnac did not state the exact price but added that the cost of H175 is above $10 million, adding that the aircraft is presently operated in Cote’de Ivoire, Ghana and Angola In addition Abelnews gathered that the retail price of the H175 is put at about $14.7 million.

PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESday, april 27, 2016

Pension/Insurance

Page

Premium Pension rewards winners

P

remium Pension Limited has given out four categories of prizes to winners in the competition embedded in the recently concluded first phase of its social media campaign.

Anchored by Alder Consulting Limited, the campaign tagged #Reward4DHustle was on the social platforms of Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook The campaign provided an opportunity for the company to address public enquiries

and requests through the instrumentality of modern Information Technology and also contribute to the generation of public awareness as to the workings of the Contributory Pension Scheme.

Kofoworola George-Taylor, an event manager based in Lagos won on Instagram and received a prize of a fully-paid Project Management Course and international travel while Olanike Oyediran, a Lagosbased lawyer won on Facebook and got the opportunity to undergo a fully-paid Project Management

Certification Course.

Another prize was for Idris Abubakar Sadiq, A computer engineer/teacher based in Kaduna who won a home office (laptop, printer and modem) while Ogbonna Kingsley Leo, an Enugubased nurse won on Instagram and received a laptop.

“Pension is all about one making plans on how to take care of oneself at old age” said Mr. Wilson Ideva, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Premium Pension Limited.

“We believe in catching them

young; that’s why we opted for the social media which is very popular with the youths.”

Mr. Ideva reiterated the need for massive public awareness with regard to the Contributory Pension Scheme while conferring on the winners the status of brand ambassadors of the company.

“You are now our brand ambassadors and you must project the image of the company positively and continue to propagate among your peers the immense advantages of the new pension scheme.”

Responding on behalf of the grand prize winners, Idris Abubakar Sadiq expressed appreciation to the company for the high level of creativity adopted in the campaign and the company’s achievements underscored by consistent high Return on Investment and being the first PFA in Nigeria to receive ISO Certification among others.

“We accept the position of your brand ambassadors and would live up to expectation,” he said.

Ensure settles N390.8m claims in 2016 Q1

E

nsure Insurance Plc. a composite insurance company in Nigeria has settle claims worth N390.8 million in the first quarter of 2016.

A breakdown of the figure shows that the Company paid out N170,215 million on Life insurance claims and a total of N220,648 million on General Business claims.

Group Life claims topped the chart with a payout of N84,449 million while Individual Life closed the quarter on N80,907 million.

In the General Business category, Engineering claims led with N64,610 million payout, followed

by General Accident and Fire claims with a total of N42,108 million and N39,282 million respectively. ensure also recorded significant figures in Motor insurance claims amounting to N38,467 million; Oil and Gas N21,639 million; Aviation N4,251 million among others.

The significant increase in the figures for the first quarter of 2016 when compared to the N290 million recorded in the first quarter of 2015 are largely due to an increased subscription to the Company’s insurance solutions and prompt claims processing resulting from the thorough review of the Company’s product and internal processes.

The Company has reiterated its commitment to prompt claims settlement, adding that this is the only way to gain the confidence of the insuring public whilst assuring all stakeholders that its financial strength, impeccable internal process and partnership with highly rated reinsurance companies both locally and internationally will guarantee customer satisfaction.

Ensure Insurance PLC has also introduced a claims toll free line – 08000ensure and a friendly website with claims reporting functionality so customers can report claims quickly, without hassle and still get paid.

The Company also boasts of a strong Customer Service Platform, supported by well trained personnel with a thorough understanding of insurance to promptly and satisfactorily resolve all inquiries and complaints.

IPMAN National PRO, Alhaji Yakubu Sulaiman (Middle) briefing the pressmen on fuel scarcity in the country with him is Comrade Abubakar Shamaki (Left) and Malam Hussaini Abdullahi, during the press conference, yesterday in Kaduna. state

‘No premium no cover’ catalyst for rapid premium generation- WAICA boss Stories from Ngozi Onyeakusi, Lagos

T

he Outgoing President, West African Insurance Companies Association (WAICA) Mr. Ivan Avereyireh, has described the ‘No Premium No Cover’ an initiative which was first introduced by the National Insurance Commission (NAICOM) into the Nigerian insurance industry, as good development that have assisted in rapid growth in premium generation across the countries in West Africa.

Speaking at the ongoing 38th Annual General Meeting (AGM) and Education Conference of the West African Insurance Companies Association (WAICA), Avereyireh who doubles as the President of Ghana Insurers Association, and the the Managing Director/CEO, Ghana Life Assurance Co.Ltd, stated that Nigeria initiative to insurance industry in the sub region, has set a good example which Ghana and the Gambia have followed, noting that the initiative is generating positive response from the people.

Stating that WAICA intends to get insurance into the curriculum of secondary schools and tertiary institutions across the countries in the region, he added that this will enhance the people’s understanding of insurance, thus, relieve practitioners of some stress they pass through in the course of marketing insurance products and services.

“Let us no rest on our oars until we bring insurance to people in all the nooks and crannies of our region. The poor needs to be inculcated into

buying insurance products and services and Micro insurance and Takaful insurance will assist a lot in achieving this,” he pointed out.

The Vice President, WAICA, Mr. Rotimi Fashola, said the industry can only be better, in as much as operators in the region act as one, putting measures in place to drive insurance growth across the region, saying he was optimistic about the future. “The industry has scope for growth.

Though, there could be challenges now, but I am optimistic about the future,” he stated.

Page 22

PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESday, april 27, 2016

Business

NIMASA boss calls for military resistance of piracy in Gulf of Guinea

T

he Director-General, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr Dakuku Peterside, has called for a military-led patrol of Nigerian maritime domain to reduce incidents of piracy in the Gulf of Guinea.

This is contained in a statement by the Head, Public Relations Department in NIMASA, Hajia Lami Tumaka, on Tuesday, a copy of which was made available to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos.

The statement noted that Peterside stated this when he visited the Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Adm. Ibok EteIbas and the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.- Gen. Tukur Buratai, in Abuja.

The director-general said that the rising incidents of piracy had affected the economic fortunes of the nation and urged the military to initiate a joint patrol of the maritime domain to curb the trend.

Peterside acknowledged the gallantry of officers and men of the Nigerian Armed Forces in the fight against insurgency.

He described maritime security as national and international obligation of all stakeholders.

The director-general also called on the Nigerian Navy to continue with the good job of fighting piracy which they had been doing.

He also assured the CNS of NIMASA’s resolve to strengthen the existing Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Navy to eradicate piracy and other criminal activities on Nigerian waters.

Responding, Ete-Ibas congratulated Peterside on his appointment as the directorgeneral of NIMASA. He pledged the support of the Nigerian Navy to continue to partner with NIMASA in maintaining safety and security on Nigerian waters.

The CNS stated that as a strategy against piracy, the Nigerian Navy had deployed boat houses at the entry points of the creeks.

Ete-Ibas said the Navy was in the process of inaugurating a surveillance system being developed by the Office of the National Security Adviser to increase its domain awareness.

Buratai pledged the support of the Amphibious Brigade of the Nigerian Army to collaborate with NIMASA and other stakeholders to maintain security in Nigerian waters.

The COAS noted that the Nigerian Army had the capacity to protect Nigeria’s maritime assets.

He also expressed the commitment of the Army in reducing incidents of piracy, kidnapping and oil theft in the Niger Delta. (NAN)

L-R: Mr. Henry Ogbobili, Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Chief Audu Ogbeh and Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Shehu Ahmed, during the public hearing on the need for address the incessant clashes between Herdsmen, Farmers and their Host Communities in Nigeria, at the National Assembly, yesterday in Abuja.

Photo: Mahmud Isa

DPR, civil defence launch joint exercise to check sharp practices by fuel marketers

T

he Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and the Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR) have launched a joint monitoring to discourage sharp practices by fuel dealers in Bayelsa.

The team visited the NNPC Mega Station, its franchise stations and some independent marketing outlets in Yenagoa to drive the campaign.

The Operations Controller of DPR in Bayelsa, Mr Asuquo

Antai, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Tuesday that the surveillance became necessary following the profiteering attitude of the marketers.

He said the exercise which began on Monday would compel marketers who received fuel from the Pipeline and Products Marketing Company (PPMC) to sell at the approved pump price.

Antai said that more products were being allocated to the state but that the PPMC was yet to

meet the daily requirement of 825,000 litres per day.

He said that the state received between 125,000 litres and 250,000 litres daily.

Antai said that the team which checked under dispensing of products, diversion and pricing, had compelled the stations to comply with the regulations.

He said that DPR had sanctioned 16 marketers for sharp practices within the past one week and would not relent in lawfully dealing with defaulters.

Earlier, the Bayelsa Commandant of NSCDC, Mr Desmond Agu, applauded the DPR for striving to ensure that the people of Bayelsa were not exploited by unscrupulous marketers.

He cautioned the illegal roadside fuel dealers or black marketers to desist from the act or risk forfeiture.

Agu promised adequate security for DPR officials in carrying out their regulatory functions. (NAN)

ICTN will address revenue leakage, anomalies at ports - NSC

T

he Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) said on Tuesday that the International Cargo Tracking Note (ICTN) was aimed at preventing revenue leakage, under-declaration, concealment and imposition of surcharges on cargoes.

The Executive Secretary of the NSC, Mr Hassan Bello, said this in a message to a oneday Enlightenment Seminar on International Cargo Tracking Note (ICTN).

The seminar was organised by the NSC for International Freight Forwarders Association (IFFA) in Lagos.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that ICTN also means Advanced Cargo Declaration (ACD).

Bello, who was represented by the Deputy Director, Compliance, Monitoring and Enforcement of NSC, Chief Cajetan Agu, said that countries in Europe, America and Africa were already implementing the ICTN scheme.

He said that some countries

like: Angola, Congo, Gabon, Burkina Faso, Niger, Madagascar, Benin Republic, Cote D’ Ivoire, Senegal, Burkina Faso and Guinea were also implementing the ICTN. ``Our resolve to organise this enlightenment programme is therefore to educate the members of IFFA on the purpose of ICTN/ACD, the benefits and the framework for its implementation in Nigeria. ``The collaboration with IFFA and the decision to hold this seminar was a deliberate attempt on our part as the Ports Economic Regulator and the implementing Agency for ICTN in Nigeria to create more awareness on ICTN/ ACD,’’ Bello said.

He urged the IFFA to collaborate with the Council toward improving clearance of goods from the ports.

The executive secretary, however, said that the enlightenment programme would create the required awareness on ICTN among IFFA members.

The Group General Manager, Transport and Port Management

System (TPMS), in charge of Cargo Tracking Note (CTN), Mr Tony Falana, said that the company had programmed the ICTN in such a way that nobody could hack into the system.

Falana said that presently, TPMS had validated over 40,000 Entry Summary Note (ESN), adding that the company had attended to over 1,000 users operating ICTN daily.

He said that the company had sensitised the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), adding ``that the NCS was aware of how ICTN operates’’.

Also speaking, the Communication and Transport Manager, TPMS, Mr Opeyemi Oke, said that ICTN was created to checkmate revenue leakages and other anomalies in Nigerian ports.

Oke said that ACD was a central platform through which all stakeholders would be able to access information with regard to cargo shipment.

He said that ICTN kept in view the safety and security of all categories of goods including Roll

On and the Roll Off (RORO) and bulk cargoes.

Oke said that revenue would be adequately ascertained through ICTN, adding that the process would also generate accurate statistics of goods imported into the country.

In his closing remark, the President of IFFA, Chief Sam Onyemelukwe, said that before now, the association was not in support of the ICTN, adding that with the enlightenment they went through, they were now fully informed of the programme.

Onyemelukwe said that whatever affected the implementation of ICTN would affect stakeholders, adding that there was no option than to key into the system. ``Our concern is that The ICTN should not surcharge us because we have been facing a lot of extortion at the ports. ``Having been informed about the processes, we will inform our members about it and work toward full implementation.

(NAN)

PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESday, april 27, 2016

PAGE 23

Stock Watch: Tuesday, April 26, 2016 Company

Previous Closing Price

Opening Price

High

Low

Close

Change

Trades

Volume

Value

Company

Previous Closing Price

Opening Price

High

Low

Close

Change

Trades

Volume

Value

7UP 170 170 170 170 170

MBENEFIT 0.5 - - - - 0 - -

0 6 151,035 25,675,959.95

MCNICHOLS

ABBEYBDS 1.25 - - - - 0 - -

1.21 0.03 2

ABCTRANS 0.5 - - - - 0 - ACADEMY 0.55 - - - - 0 - ACCESS 4.05 4.11 4.1 4.06 4.06 0.01 59 1,887,248 7,709,066.30 ADSWITCH 1.63 - - - - 0 - -

1.18 1.21 1.21 1.21 270,464 327,261.44

MOBIL 150 - - - - 17 10,350 1,521,554.60 MORISON 1.73 - - - - 0 - MRS 49.66 - - - - 0 - MTECH 0.91 - - - - 0 - MTI 0.5 - - - - 0 - -

AFRIK 0.5 - - - - 0 - -

MULTITREX 0.5 - - - - 0 - -

AFRINSURE 0.5 - - - - 0 - -

MULTIVERSE 0.5 - - -

AFRIPRUD 2.58 2.46 2.46 2.46 2.46 -0.12 26 979,264 2,412,030.84 - 0 - AFRPAINTS 2.59 - - - - 0 - -

NAHCO 4.02 4 4 4 4 -0.02 22 251,094 1,001,583.80

AGLEVENT 0.77 - - - - 2 5,500 4,165.00

NASCON 6.86 - - - - 9 80,100 560,610.00

AIICO 0.8 - - - - 6 62,998 50,338.15 AIRSERVICE 2.29 - - - - 1 4,588 10,001.84 ALEX 9.84 - - - - 0 - ALUMACO 7.75 - - - - 0 - ANINO 0.25 - - - - 0 - ARBICO 5.04 - - - - 0 - -

NB 99.99 99.94 99.94 98.5 99.9 -0.09 68

293,234 29,196,308.21

NCR 11.02 - - - - 0 - NEIMETH 0.72 0.69 0.69 0.69 0.69 -0.03 5

NESF 552.2 - - - - 0 - NESTLE 700 715.5 700 700 700

ASHAKACEM 24 - - -

0

-

NIG-GERMAN 4.91 - - -

15

109,227 2,671,023.97

ASOSAVINGS 0.5 - - - - 0 - -DUNLOP 0.5 - - - - 0 - EKOCORP 3.72 - - - - 0 - ELLAHLAKES 4.26 - - -

518,000 357,600.00

NEM 0.73 - - - - 6 134,441 99,520.75

41

75,818 52,951,924.47

- 0 - NIGERINS 0.5 - - - - 0 - NIGROPES 7.46 - - - - 0 - NNFM 6.65 - - - - 1 433 2,736.56 NPFMCRFBK 1.08 - - -

- 0 - ENAMELWA 29.78 - - - - 0 - -

-

1

4,760 4,950.40

NSLTECH 0.5 - - - - 0 - -

EQUITYASUR 0.5 - - -

OANDO 3.48 3.65 3.49 3.47 3.47

- 0 - -

-0.01

ETERNA 1.76 1.84 1.84 1.84 1.84 0.08 6 97,300 177,432.00

OKOMUOIL 30 - - - - 5 12,300 364,216.00

84

3,565,310 12,378,579.44

0.5 - - - - 0 - ETI 15.6 - - - - 14 177,450 2,635,288.67 OMATEK OMOSAVBNK 0.92 - - - ETRANZACT 3.1 - - - - 0 - EVANSMED 0.5 - - - - 0 - FBNH 3.79 3.93 3.86 3.8 3.8 0.01

184 90

PAINTCOM 1.04 - - - - 0 - PHARMDEKO 2.14 - - -

5,055,956 19,275,492.20

- 0 - -

FCMB 0.87 0.84 0.87 0.84 0.85 -0.02

- 0 - -

PORTPAINT 3.36 - - - - 0 - -

29,249,726 24,926,812.18

PREMBREW 2.95 - - - - 0 - -

FIDELITYBK 1.21 1.22 1.22 1.22 1.22 0.01 12 128,900 157,724.34

PREMPAINTS 10.93 - - -

FIDSON 2.69 - - - - 27 614,065 1,572,223.05 - 0 - PRESCO 34 35.7 - - - FIRSTALUM 0.5 - - - - 0 - 0.5 - - - - FLOURMILL 18.4 18.99 18.99 18.99 18.99 0.59 27 197,247 3,727,672.78 PRESTIGE PZ 21.9 - - - - FO 342 - - - - 6 15,200 4,938,480.00 RAKUNITY 0.5 - - - - FORTISMFB 5.15 - - - - 0 - REDSTAREX 3.8 - - - - FTNCOCOA 0.5 - - - - 0 - REGALINS 0.5 - - - - GCAPPA 14.46 - - - - 0 - RESORTSAL 0.5 - - - -

GLAXOSMITH

24.17 25.37 25.37 24.99

25.33 1.16

29

5 11,400 412,350.00 0 - 12 36,726 816,355.90 0 - 3 12,500 49,875.00 0 - 0 - -

ROADS 6.6 - - - - 0 - -

501,798 12,648,111.26

ROKANA 0.6 - - - - 0 - -

GNI 0.5 - - - - 0 - -

ROYALEX 0.5 - - - - 0 - -

GOLDBREW 0.97 - - - - 0 - -

RTBRISCOE 0.5 - - - - 1 941 470.50

GOLDINSURE 0.53 - - -

SCOA 3.96 - - - - 0 - SEPLAT 302.48 317.6 318 318 318

- 0 - -

15.52 30

GUARANTY 16.87 17.45 17.45 16.59 16.66 -0.21

149

388,650 123,626,470.56

SIMCAPVAL 103.24 - - - - 0 - -

3,576,744 59,751,776.00

GUINEAINS 0.5 - - - - 0 - -GUIN-

SKYEBANK 1.08 1.12 1.08 1.07 1.07 -0.01 39 1,959,858 2,104,852.11 SKYESHELT 100 - - - - 0 - -

NESS 118 - - - - 10 15,500 1,818,000.00 SMURFIT 1.02 - - - - 0 - HMARKINS 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0 2 5,004,000 2,502,000.00 SOVRENINS 0.5 - - - - 0 - HONYFLOUR 1.37 - - -

-STACO 0.5 - - - - 0 - -

-

STANBIC 14.15 - - - - 5 37,001 523,343.90

4

20,000 27,916.00

IAINSURE 0.5 - - - - 0 - IKEJAHOTEL 2.89 - - - - 0 - INFINITY 1.42 - - - - 0 - INTBKPREF 13.5 - - - - 0 - INTBREW 20 20 - - - 6 14,700 284,197.00 INTENEGINS 0.5 - - - - 0 - INTERLINK 4.21 - - - - 0 - -

Top Gainers Company

Previous Closing Price

Opening Price

High

1.73 1.73 1.73 1.73

1.73

13

0

1,104,932 1,911,701.10

STUDPRESS 2.19 - - - - 0 - TANTALIZER 0.5 - - - - 0 - THOMASWY 0.61 - - - - 0 - -

Top Losers Low

Close

Change

Trades

Volume

Value

SEPLAT 302.48 317.6 318 318 318 30 388,650 123,626,470.56 GLAXOSMITH

STDINSURE 0.5 - - - - 0 - STERLNBANK

24.17 25.37 25.37 24.99 29

501,798 12,648,111.26

FLOURMILL 18.4 18.99 18.99 18.99 18.99 0.59 207,732 3,926,887.78

Company

Previous Closing Price

Opening Price

High

Low

Close

Change

Trades

Volume

Value

AFROMEDIA 0.5 - - - - 0 - LENNARDS 3 - - - - 0 - RTBRISCOE 0.5 - - - - 1 941 470.50

WAPCO 80 80.5 80.5 80.5 80.5 19 14,337,554 1,154,154,991.51

DUNLOP 0.5 - - - - 0 - -

DANGSUGAR

ETI 15.6 - - - - 14 177,450 2,635,288.67

5.44 5.36 5.6 5.36 44 2,017,332 11,033,075.32

ETERNA 1.76 1.84 1.84 1.84 1.84 0.08 97,300 177,432.00

INTBKPREF 13.5 - - - - 0 - -

LEARNAFRCA 0.81 0.85 0.89 0.85 0.08 610,400 526,304.00

UBN 5.3 - - - - 8 24,412 126,491.00

UNITYBNK 0.6 0.63 0.63 0.63 0.63 0.03 501,617 316,018.71

PREMBREW 2.95 - - - - 0 - -

Special Report

Are cities the new countries?

Are big cities becoming more like separate countries?

D

o big cities have more in common with each other than with the rest of their own countries?

Are there meaningful comparisons between cities such as New York, London and Shanghai, rather than between nation states?

That is the suggestion of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).

Such mega-conurbations have bigger populations and economies than many individual countries - and the think tank argues that they face many similar challenges, whether it is in transport, housing, security, jobs,

PAGE 25

Peoples Daily, Wednesday, April 27, 2016

PAGE 24

migration or education.

In a report on global trends shaping education, the OECD says cities could learn from each other’s experiences, in a way that would be impossible at the level of national politics.

“Sharing policy lessons across countries is hard, because policy is so much framed in terms of ideology and political parties,” says Andreas Schleicher, the OECD’s education director.

“When we talk about countries, it’s often about what separates us, language and culture. But when you talk about cities, we face very similar challenges.”

They are the upsides and downsides of immense

concentrations of people living in a small space, often two sides of the same coin.

There are more jobs, but also more unemployed. There are extremes of wealth and poverty.

There are highly developed transport systems and then overcrowding as they struggle to cope with the demand.

The bright lights, the economy and innovation attract people which leads to extra pressures on housing and services and arguments over the levels of migration.

Modern mega-cities are highly connected places, but with corresponding levels of people who feel dangerously disconnected.

These are issues that the OECD says could be more usefully examined at a city level.

“If you think of security, terrorism and radicalisation, it’s not going to be a challenge for the villages of England or France - it’s going to be large metropolitan areas that are going to have to deal with this.

“The world is much more of a global village when you talk about cities.”

In education, Mr Schleicher says comparisons between cities are particularly relevant.

“Why is it that city schools in London are so much better than city schools in New York? We should be asking ourselves that question.”

The OECD’s figures show how the economic activity of metropolitan areas account for a disproportionate slice of national wealth. In France and Japan, 70% of GDP growth between 2000 and 2010 was attributed to their big cities.

And there are forecasts for even more urbanisation, tipping even more of the economic strength into these city states.

The metropolitan areas of Mexico City, Delhi, Shanghai and Tokyo already have populations above 20 million, bigger than most European countries.

The report also shows how ideas spread between mega-cities - and how much they have come to look like one another.

Japan is one of the most urbanised countries in the world It tracks how brands such as Starbucks, H&M and Zara went from operating in relatively few countries in the early years of the century, to being almost everywhere a decade later.

The pressures on urban transport are also shared - and so often are the responses.

There was once only one urban metro system, the London Underground, which began in the 1860s, at a time when Britain’s entire population wasn’t much bigger than modern-day Shanghai. Now there are more than 100 operating in 27 of the OECD member countries, part of the fabric of highly urbanised areas.

Bike-sharing schemes, launched in Copenhagen in 1995, have spread in 20 years to more than 600 cities around the world and the biggest are now in China.

In Hangzhou alone there are around 80,000 bikes hired out.

The modern mega-city is also intensely international. Whether it’s food, languages being spoken, local media, the multicultural mix of people, the rapid flux of money, ideas and fashions - these world cities are increasingly unlike anywhere else within their own countries.

They’ve developed their own cultural and economic microclimates. Take a London bearded hipster and he might be more at home in Manhattan than a postindustrial part of his own country.

The OECD raises the question about whether such cities are “now the most relevant level of governance, small enough to react swiftly and responsively to issues and large enough to hold economic and political power”.

It stirs echoes of the long history of city states, like Italian cities during the Renaissance, with wealth and creativity operating within civic fiefdoms, rather than national boundaries.

The 2016 global trends report provides some other fascinating snapshots of modern living.

Belgium and Japan are the most urbanised countries in the world, with the UK above average.

Smoking tobacco is in decline across all developed countries apart from Greece, where consumption is higher than in 1990, perhaps raising questions about the economic crash.

Suicide rates have either fallen

or remained stable across most of the developed world, but the United States and South Korea are exceptions, where the rates have risen compared with 2000.

The UK has one of the lowest suicide rates.

Levels of household debt have risen in almost every industrialised country, with the two exceptions being Germany and Japan. Denmark has the highest level of household debt, with the UK in the upper half of the range.

So would the problems of national governments be better addressed at a more local level?

Mr Schleicher says it’s the great global cities where many of the big contemporary questions are sharpest.

In such diverse cities, what are the values and identities that need to be promoted or rejected?

How do we respond to widening extremes of income inequality?

How do we prepare young people for such a shifting jobs market?

What does it mean to be an individual in a huge city shaped by the unpredictable trade winds of a global economy?

Living in a mega-city doesn’t necessarily make us feel like mega-citizens.

As the OECD guru asks, how do we make people “feel safe and at home in a city that changes rapidly around them?”

If we were to start from scratch, we would not create the government structure that we have. Governance is very difficult to change - revolution is the only sure way, as history tells us. Undoubtedly, nation states have been successful but mainly through their ability to carry out warfare. Their days are numbered. Global companies, as well as cities, challenge nation states in terms of economic size.

First question: what is the purpose of government? If it is generally to keep individuals safe and happy, then structures are needed to handle issues at different scales. Globally, to handle issues of nation states, mega companies and cities. Small to be intelligent and responsive to local issues. Perhaps vertical to handle issues of a particular type, such as environment.

The streets of Manhattan: New York has a bigger economy than many individual countries

How do schools in inner London do so much better than schools in New York?

Source: BBC Siena’s skyline: Will there be a rise of city states like in Renaissance Italy?

Page 26

PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESday, april 27, 2016

Property

NGO constructs residential houses for low- income earners at N1.6m

By Mashe Umaru Gwamna

A

Non-Governmental Organisation, Millard Fuller Foundation (MFF), said it had constructed residential houses for low -income earners resident in the FCT and its environs.

The Chief Executive Officer of the foundation, Mr Sam Odia, made the revelation recently in Abuja while briefing newsmen on

the campaign of the NGO called ``My Fuller My House.”

According to him, the campaign is aimed at servicing low- income earners and while bridging housing deficit in the FCT and environs.

Adding that, each of the houses were located at Masaka, Nasarawa state, would cost N1.6 million to acquire with a relaxed payment plan.

Odia said that the NGO plans

to construct the houses across the 36 states and the FCT. The founder emphasised that interested buyer were expected to pay 60 per cent initial equity deposits.

He said that the houses would be sold on owner occupier basis for as little as N8, 500 per month with long term mortgages.

The CEO said that the mortgages would be provided by

Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria through its low income informal sector window.

He said that the foundation had 200 units of houses with 92 units ready for sale, while the project would provide opportunities for low income earners to own a modern house.

He said that the Fuller Centre for Housing, an international NGO, active in more than 15 countries

provided the seed funding for the project in Nigeria.

He said the centre was founded by Millar Fuller, who also founded Habitat for Humanity International, the world’s largest house building NGO. Odia urged the media to serve as partners in the foundations’ crusade to ensure that every Ni geri a n own a decen t a n d affordable home.

An offerdable house for low-come earner

Bauchi inaugurates committee to investigate contract awards, execution

T

he Bauchi State Government has inaugurated a 10-man committee to investigate contracts executed by the government from May 2007 to May 2015.

Gov. Mohammed Abubakar, while inaugurating the committee in Bauchi said inauguration of the committee followed recommendations made by various bodies.

Abubakar noted that his administration took over leadership when the state was at

the brink of collapse, following infrastructure decay.

The governor said that the state had retrogressed in the past few years, noting that contracts were avenues where public funds were easily siphoned through poor execution.

Abubakar assured that his administration would comply with due process in the award and execution of contracts.

He pointed out that the inauguration of the committee was not to witch-hunt anybody

but to establish whether due process was followed in the execution and payment for contracts.

The governor urged members of the committee to execute their assignments diligently to enable the state benefit from their wealth of experiences.

He appealed to ministries, departments and agencies to cooperate with the committee by providing information that might be requested by the committee.

“Government will, however,

not hesitate to deal decisively with any ministry, department, agency or staff, who refuses to cooperate with the committee in the course of its assignments,” he stated.

The Chairman of the committee, Alhaji Salihu Abubakar, assured that the body would execute its assignment without fear or favour.

The terms of reference of the committee, include among others, to investigate major contracts awarded and payments made between May 2007 and May

2016.

The committee is also to confirm whether due process was followed in the award of the contracts and identify perceived corrupt practices.

The committee is also to investigate whether projects and supplies were done in according with specifications and sources of expenditure.

The committee, which has three weeks to complete its assignment, has Alhaji Abdul Hassan as secretary. (NAN)

Builders, DFID begin artisans’ skills empowerment scheme

A

construction management consultancy firm and builders has kick-started a scheme known as Construction skills Training and Empowerment Programme (C-STEmp), which will train, access and certify 200,000 artisans in 2016.

The C-STEmp scheme is an initiative of J.Hausen Limited, with Nigerian Institute of Building (NIOB) in collaboration with the Council of Registered Builders of Nigeria (CORBON) and sponsored by the Department for International Development (DFID), also backed by the UKAid through the construction idea fund of the Growth and Employment in States (GEMs) project.

Speaking at the inauguration of the programme in Abuja,

Minister of Power, Works and Housing, Mr. Babatunde Fashola, reiterated the Federal Government’s promise to act promptly to address shortage of skilled Nigerian artisans.

Fashola recalled that President Muhammadu Buhari recently decried the influx of foreign building trade workers in the country.

He said the training would be of benefit to the ministry since it already has vocational training centres for artisans and craftsmen in Yaba and Onikan in Lagos state and Ikeduru in Imo state.

He commended the skills empowerment project and urged that the training should be focused to achieve its intended

purpose in order to supply skilled manpower in housing and construction industry.

Similarly, the NIOB President, Mr. Tijjani Shuaib, said the project aimed at developing a pool of welltrained and qualified manpower for the housing and construction industry would also train up to two million people in the next five years.

According to him, the project would reduce unemployment, poverty, and block the influx of foreign construction workers into Nigeria as pledged by President Muhammadu Buhari.

He recalled that the President had pledged that the present ad minis tration w ould move quickly to address the shortage of skilled construction workers

in the country. “NIOB is ready to commence training, assessment and certification of the building craftsmen and artisans in collaboration with CORBON and the DFID under the C-STEMP programme.

“We have developed and validated a national occupational standards for the key building construction trades, masonry, carpentry, plumbing, electrical installation, painting and decoration among others.

He said a good number of assessors and verifies were also being trained with the assistance of the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), adding that the skill gap in the Nigerian construction sector and poor quality project delivery has

become a great concern for NIOB and CORBON. The Project Director of C-Stemp, Mr. Anthony Okwa called on the Federal, State and local governments in Nigeria to partner with C- Stemp in training artisans and creating employment for the youths in the country.

The Managing Director of Fesadeb Communications Limited and President, Abuja Housing Annual Show, Mr. Festus Adebayo, called for a strong partnership with the media to ensure housing development.

Adebayo, a housing expert said that the project was a new dawn for artisans in Nigeria adding that it would absorb many unemployed Nigerians.

Page 27

PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESday, april 27, 2016

Property

Five basic qualities a healthy home should possess

H

ousing is often regarded as one of the basic human needs. It ranks second after food and thereafter clothing. It is a pre-requisite for the survival of man.

Housing as a unit of the environment has profound influence on the health, efficiency, social behaviour, satisfaction and general welfare of the community.

The importance of providing adequate and quality housing in any country can neither be overstated

nor disputed in time or space. It is a stimulant to the national economy.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) describes housing as residential environment which includes the physical structure used for shelter, all necessary services, facilities, equipment and devices needed or desired for the physical and mental health and social well being of the family and individuals.

A healthy building does not necessarily mean a building that

costs you millions of naira or a very expensive one, a healthy building simply means a building that has facilities necessary for your everyday life in order.

What most people do not know is that many illnesses and ailments are as a result of staying under poor housing conditions. These illnesses don’t show up easily, rather they accumulate over time, and are then manifested either as a result of stress, noise e.t.c.

For a building to be classified as healthy, it must possess at least these five basic qualities: A healthy building should not be densely populated: depending on the size of the house, a healthy home should not be overcrowded.

Its window design and layout should facilitate natural ventilation and penetration of daylight; It should be isolated from noise and air pollution sources; Its water supply and waste

Property of the Week

discharge systems should be properly installed maintained and managed; its environmental conditions should be clean Considering getting a house?

Then look out for a healthy building, remember Health is Wealth.

Source: Bizwatchnigeria. com

Expert advises Lagos residents to relocate homes built on drainage channels

By Mashe Umaru Gwamna with agency report

T

he Chairman, Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), Apapa Branch, Mr Olalekan Taiwo, has advised Lagos residents, who have built houses on drainage systems to relocate their homes before the rainy season begins,.

Taiwo told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos recently that people with houses built on drainage channels were at risk of becoming victims flood victims during the rainy season.

The engineer boss emphasised that both the residents and the state government needed to do the right thing early enough to avert flood. ``If you know that you have built on drainage channels, start making plans to move. ``And for those who have not done that, do not put your garbage, your refuse, in drainage channels because what goes around, comes around. ``And for government, it should do a lot of sensitisation, government should not apply sentiments. ``If certain structures have been placed on drainage (channels), they should not hesitate to pull it down after following due process.

5 Rules for smooth construction project management A

s a construction contractor, you’ve got to wear plenty of hats. You are quality control, business manager, human resources, and keeper of the budget, just to name a few. Part of the job knows how to combine all these roles to ensure smooth construction project management and satisfied customers.

After all, poor management means dissatisfied customers, frustrated employees, and possibly even claims against your contractor license bond. To avoid all these hassles, just check out these top five rules for smooth construction project management.

Rule 1: Be a Team Player Sure, it’s a bit of a cliche, but working well within a team is at the core of being a good manager.

It’s just not something you can compromise on. But doing this starts with good communication between you, the architect or designer, the client, and your team. This should be an easy feat to accomplish, as there are manyproject management

applications and technologies ready to help you out.

Ultimately, what it comes down to is attitude. All the software or technology in the world can’t create a teamwork-friendly attitude.

Updating everyone working with you on the project’s status at a regular interval (say, bi-weekly) also helps create a predictable flow to teamwork and avoids any potential frustration resulting from lack of knowledge.

So whatever it takes to get you there the right team or the right coffee just dive in and make sure you get to work.

Rule 2: Budget Smartly Perhaps the greatest complaint clients always seem to have about construction contractors is that they go over budget. If you’ve explained a thousand times that this is a normal part of the process, why not join the growing ranks of construction companies and contractors who budget for these costs from the start?

Try starting with a realistic

budget and adding at least 10 percent to it for unexpected costs.

Explain to your customers that the budget includes this contingency and hopefully, instead of having the “we need more money” conversation, you can have the “we finished under budget” conversation at the end of the job. Wouldn’t that be a nice change?

Rule 3: Take Design Seriously from Day 1 Okay, so you’re a manager and a contractor, not a designer, engineer, or architect, but that doesn’t mean you can’t keep good design in mind on your projects.

At the very least, advising clients to consult a design professional before beginning major work can leave you with a happier client and a more predictable, and on budget, project.

Convincing clients to work with related professionals also has the added benefit of helping you to build trust. A client will feel more comfortable knowing you’re not afraid to bring in another person or

firm and work with them if needed.

Without that comfort, client worries can translate into slow decision making, cost overruns, and major headaches.

Rule 4: Make and Refer to a Comprehensive List of Goals Most contractors and managers make lists, but making a comprehensive list, which incorporates information on the priorities of the client, makes a big difference. Even Johnny Cash knew how important lists are.

Having important project information at your fingertips avoids having to turn to a client with questions about whether they would prefer one feature over another. You can even make this list visible to the client through one of the project management software platforms mentioned above.

This can drastically cut down on the number of phone calls requesting updates or asking questions, and allows you to focus more on what

you’re doing, leading to better and more efficient work.

Rule 5: Look at the Big Picture before Starting a Project Before you start any work, make sure you’ve taken a step back to think about the wider construction implications. These can be anything from how an addition will affect the structural integrity of a building, how drainage will affect a site, or howgreen technologies might save money on the project.

These considerations can save incredible amounts of time and money in the long run. Because ultimately having a clear idea of the bigger picture helps immensely with remembering details.

Plus, catching a potential disaster before it occurs is another solid way to build a good relationship with a client. Show them you’ve got their back and they’ll reward you down the road.

Source: capterra.com

Page 28

Motoring PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESday, april 27, 2016

New Land Rover Range Rover classically styled

T

he 2016 Land Rover Range Rover continues to be a classically styled, opulently appointed icon of luxury. But what we really like about this venerable SUV is that it’s not just showy; it’s functional as well. Like other Land Rover vehicles, the Range Rover is built to traverse the most difficult terrain imaginable, and doing so is now easier than ever thanks to the newly available All-Terrain Progress Control system (think of it as low-speed cruise control for off-roading). Even if you don’t get much more adventurous than driving over a curb while pulling up to the valet stand, it’s nice to know the capability is there.

Although it still looks and feels fresh, the current Range Rover enters its fourth year of production for 2016, so a handful of upgrades have been introduced to keep it up to date.

In addition to off-road cruise control, there’s a 40-hp boost for the HSE model’s supercharged V6, which should help address our concerns about that engine’s performance (though the base SE model’s V6 soldiers on with the previous 340-hp rating).

If you’re more concerned with fuel economy, there’s a newly optional turbo diesel V6 that returns an impressive 25 mpg combined,

including 29 mpg on the highway.

For astounding acceleration, try the long-wheelbase-only SV Autobiography trim (replacing last year’s Autobiography Black), which boasts a 550-hp variant of the familiar supercharged V8 and also hits new highs in luxury and style. Moreover, Land Rover has seen fit to update the infotainment interface with a revised menu structure and standard InControl Apps integration.

If you want three rows of seats, though, the Range Rover can’t help you, even if you get the optional extended-wheelbase body style.

When it comes to three-row crossovers, the Mercedes-Benz GL-Class has the high-end luxury market more or less cornered. In the two-row class, the Porsche Cayenne gives you less isolation

from the road but a much sportier driving experience: sportier even than the Range Rover’s more athletic stablemate,

SV Autobiography is LWB-only.

Note that the LWB models add 7.3 inches of rear legroom, power rear window sunshades, rear-door map

the Range Rover Sport. And then there’s the Mercedes-Benz G-Class, a repurposed military vehicle from the 1970s that’s just as much of an icon as its British rival. Still, the Range Rover might be the one that puts it all together the best: the ultimate vehicle for those who want to go anywhere and leave no creature comfort behind.

The 2016 Land Rover Range Rover is a two-row luxury SUV available in five trim levels: Base, HSE, Supercharged, Autobiography and SV Autobiography. A fivepassenger layout is standard, with four-passenger “executive class” seating optional on Autobiography and standard on SV Autobiography.

The HSE, Supercharged and Autobiography are offered in both standard and long-wheelbase (LWB) variants, while the base Range Rover comes only with the standard wheelbase, and the

pockets, an extended panoramic sunroof with rear-passenger sunblind control and minor aesthetic enhancements.

The base trim is equipped with 19-inch wheels (20s are optional), an adjustable air suspension (with automatic lowering for entry/exit), Terrain Response selectable fourwheel-drive modes, automatic xenon headlights, automatic wipers, front and rear parking sensors, a rearview camera, heated power-folding mirrors, a handsfree power liftgate and tailgate (clamshell-style cargo access) and keyless entry and ignition.

Inside there’s tri-zone automatic climate control, heated 10-way power front seats, driver memory settings, leather upholstery, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, a power-adjustable heated steering wheel, a heated windshield and manually reclining rear seatbacks.

Also standard is an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, voice controls, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity and a 13-speaker Meridian audio system with a USB port, satellite and HD radio and the InControl Apps suite.

The HSE model adds 20-inch wheels, a panoramic sunroof, auto-dimming sideview mirrors, power-closing doors, upgraded leather upholstery and interior trim, 14-way power front seats with ventilation and heated rear seats.

The Supercharged adds a V8 engine, 21-inch alloy wheels, foglights, an adaptive version of the Terrain Response system (Terrain Response 2 Auto) and All-Terrain Progress Control.

A number of options are available on the base, HSE and Supercharged trims. For all three trims, the Vision Assist package adds adaptive headlights with automatic high beams, ambient interior lighting, a surroundview camera system, a blind spot monitor and rear cross-traffic alert. It also includes Terrain Response 2, All-Terrain Progress Control and foglights for the base and HSE trims and autodimming exterior mirrors for the base trim.

The Driver Assistance package builds on the Vision Assist package with a lane departure warning system, a self-parking system (with both perpendicular and parallel capability), traffic sign recognition, 360-degree parking sensors and WiFi prewiring. Adaptive cruise control with automatic emergency braking is separately available.

A premium 19-speaker Meridian stereo can be specified.

The Tow package includes a tow hitch and a full-size spare tire, plus an active locking rear differential on the Supercharged trim. Additionally, there’s a rear seat entertainment package with twin 8-inch screens (LWB models get 10.2-inch screens) that also adds winged headrests.

A heated wood and leather steering wheel is a stand-alone option, and base models can be had with either a fixed or sliding panoramic sunroof.

The HSE and Supercharged are also eligible for 22-inch wheels and a Four Zone Climate Comfort package that includes quadzone climate control, massaging front seats, a front cooler box (which can be deleted), poweradjustable rear seats (recline and lumbar) with ventilation and the Intelligent Seat Cargo Mode system, which provides powerfolding rear seatbacks that can sense an impending collision with the front seatbacks and temporarily slide the front seats out of the way to make room. A fixed panoramic roof may be specified in place of the standard sliding roof.

Source: Edmunds.com

PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESday, april 27, 2016

Arts & Culture

Page 29

FROM THE LIVE STAGE with Patrick-Jude Oteh 0803 700 0496, 0805 953 5215 (SMS only)

King hedley II

C215 was commissioned to create several artworks for the town

French cleaners scrub off street art

C

itizens of Reims in northern France have lost a brand new artwork commissioned for the town, after the anti-graffiti squad scrubbed it off.

The town hall commissioned a street art mural by the country’s top graffiti artist, C215, showing a sulking boy slumped against a wall.

But there was a slight hitch - the town’s cleaning department were not told not to remove it.

C215, whose real name is Christian Guemy, seemed quite relaxed about it.

The artist told AFP news agency what surprised him was that it was cleaned up by the same city that commissioned him.

The town hall had apologised, he said.

Meanwhile officials told French media that the artist would return to Reims at the start of March to carry out more work.

The culture and events department would be giving advance notice to the anti-graffiti squad this time, they added.

Hong Kong bookseller Lee Bo says he will abandon UK residency

O

ne of the five booksellers who went missing from Hong Kong has said he will give up his right to live in

the UK. In a televised interview, his first public appearance since going missing, Lee Bo denied he had been abducted by Chinese officials.

Mr Lee is one of five men linked to a Hong Kong publishers who disappeared late last year - the publishing house sold books critical of China’s leaders.

His supporters believe the TV interview was done under duress.

The BBC’s Juliana Liu in Hong

Mr. Lee smiled often during an interview broadcast on 29 February on Chinese TV

Kong says political activists who have been advocating for Mr Lee’s return to Hong Kong believe his apparent confession is laughable.

Public confessions have long been a part of China’s criminal law, but experts say many confessions are forced.

The other booksellers also appeared on Chinese television on Sunday, saying they were detained for “illegal book trading”.

The case has sparked accusations of China violating Hong Kong judicial independence In his interview with mainland news outlets (in Chinese), Mr Lee,

also known as Paul Lee, confirmed that he has a British passport, and that he had applied for the right of abode in the UK in the early 1990s.

But he said he had never lived in the UK “nor enjoyed the rights and privileges of a British citizen” since then.

“Because some people have used the question of my right to abode in the UK to engage in speculation, it has allowed things to become more complicated, and I have decided to renounce my right to abode,” he said, adding that he had already informed the UK.

King Hedley II was the son of King Hedley I and Ruby who was a big band singer but who recently moved back to town. Ruby is the girlfriend of Elmore who is a professional hustler and has a habit of coming and going as the spirit moves him. King Hedley II has a friend Mister who has been his friend since childhood. Whenever they are broke or in need of quick cash, they steal. It was as simple as that. Presently they are engaged in selling fridges but the ones that make ice have gone out of stock. Here is how it works – you need a fridge you order for it cash front and the fridge is delivered to your doorstep. No questions are asked about the origin of the fridge. King Hedley II has a wife Tonya who recently got pregnant but had to get a D&C to remove the baby because she was not convinced that King Hedley II can guarantee their new baby a life off the streets.

King Hedley II who was brought up by his Aunty just came back from prison after killing the man who sliced his face in two leaving him with a permanent scar. He is proud of the time he did in prison but now he is back. His Aunty is dead so he moved in with his biological mother. He just wants to live a quiet life, but his mother does not trust him and every so often reminds him that he should quit stealing. But to King Hedley II this is not stealing – it is business and Mister is his business partner. The society might not agree with their kind of business but he has quit living by the rules of society.

Elmore suddenly appears and he has a certain hold on Ruby.

His coming back has a reason – he wants to marry Ruby and settle down because in his Sixties, he no longer has the thirst for the road except for one more very important trip that he must make. There is a snag as King Hedley II remembers that the last time Elmore passed by to see his Mother, Elmore sold him a bad wrist watch which though he claimed it will work forever worked for only two days. They had a score to settle. It must also be said that Elmore is a consummate and irredeemable gambler.

Elmore proposes to marry Ruby. All these years, only Elmore and Ruby know that King Hedley I is the real father of King Hedley II but over the years he had been passed off as a relation with a sad history. Enter Stool Pigeon who makes a gift of the sword that hacked King Hedley I to his son but tells him that it is the sword that God is coming to judge with. In the course of the narrative, Elmore is looking for someone to gamble with. No one takes up the bait. He sells a gun to Mister who in turn loans the gun to Ruby. It is a day of judgement and happiness but Elmore in a fit of the unexplained decides against the advice of Ruby to settle all scores that night. Ruby leaves them.

Elmore proceeds to tell King Hedley II who his real father was.

King decides that the only way to settle the score is for them to gamble. But if Elmore wins he knows it is with a dice that has been tailored to win. King tells Elmore that he is in a battle with death so he had better not win. They proceed and King wins squarely until Elmore decides to use the tailored dice. King finds out and in a fit of rage lifts the sword to strike Elmore but he digs the sword into the ground. Elmore also had a gun and he in a fit of rage brings it out and fires into the ground! Ruby who was still holding Mister’s gun heard the shot from inside the house and all her thoughts was that her son had killed Elmore on a day that was supposed to be her happiest. Coincidentally, King had started walking towards the house and as soon as Ruby sees him she fires and kills him instantly only to see Elmore standing behind the now dead King Hedley II. This story of King Hedley II is the 9th in the Pittsburgh cycle of playwright and poet, August Wilson. Written in 1995 telling the story of the decade 1985 – 1995, it is a complex story but one crafted with the richness that only he could muster and master. Kind Hedley II is a masterpiece by all standards and all the kinds of emotions that are rife with humans are in the play in abundance.

Page 30

Arts & Culture

PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESday, april 27, 2016

Book Review

Title of Book: The book “WHAT I NEED to know” “The lizard and the rat (a tale of two fools)” Author: Edozie Ezeagu.

Book Reviewer: Ochiaka Ugwu

The book “What I need to know”

T

he book “What I Need to Know” is an inspiring book that lectures about your life purpose, the reason why you are created; who you are in the God’s sight and to mankind.

It has nine chapters, and each chapter is written to make you reposition, rediscover and restructure yourself as God’s prince, princess or leading figure, because you are made to make a difference in your life endavour.

It’s also unraveled the treats militating against your purpose for creation, for instance, circumstances that control your life e.g. Thinking –dwelling so much in the past and in the fear of unforeseen. Unfaithfulness – having the mind of infidelity and of no contentment, fear –which is the act of taking something that is rightfully, belong you away from you, the lack of right understanding on fear and how to confront fear.

The book also teaches on how you can live a life without any regret, for example, you can live a life without regrets by observing these: By investing in yourself e.g. be good to yourself. Put yourself first.

Become your own self best friend, etc.

By investing in others e.g. choose to be with people who love and respect you. Surround yourself with people that can bring out the best in you. for confirmation of what I am saying, hear what A. A. Musa said, a prolific writer “ What I need to know is no doubt a book of inspiration to all irrespective of age or social status written for progressive minds.”

However, many people today do not know who they are and that is what called for this very question. Who are you?

I think that this very question should curse your head as to what I mean.

For instance, God started a thought process in Jacob´s thoughts. He made him stop long enough to measure his identity.

He wrestled him into a revelation.

Now, what led to Jacob´s God revelation through confrontation?

This is simply because Jacob had defined himself as what people said he was. Jacob said ´´ I am what individual said I am´´ which is miserable.

Who knows whether you are the cause of your own sorry side because of what individual says you are? Thank God that this book is out to uncover who you are and who you should believe that you are.

Furthermore, John C. Maxwell says and I quote, ´´ you will

become on the outside what you believe on the inside.´´ But do you think that is true? Yes of course, and it is undisputed fact.

This book will teach you on how you can believe in yourself.

How you can prove your standards of living by means of being venerable and anxious of knowing what have not known before The book was also written to address the descending order of things happening in our society today, some which are;

Descending order of parents: this is to say that some parents no longer play their role again, most especially on their children. Things that were not tolerated in the old are now being tolerated because of fetish new model life-style believe.

For this reason, reverse is the case where a child or children now in position of the parent through suppremposement of initiation as progenitor (s), director and what have you. For example, some parents always avoid the acts of

their children for ‘’if I say sake and that is what parents were created for.

So, why do you think you are created as regards your responsibility as a parent? These and more are what will get to know in this book.

This book also teaches about what we need to know about Goal setting. What is Goal? Here is uncomplicated definition of goal.

Goal great direction in your life and take care of your inspiration –Anonymous These are among the things the book disintegrated to make you really know how to set your goals and achieve them in a short possible time.

It is a book that students, nonstudents, in fact for all because is not peculiarised on one set of facet of life, it is all encompassing.

THE LIZARD AND THE RAT (A TALE OF TWO FOOLS) This book enumerated how come of lizard nods. Its runaround homes, undergrowths and what have you.

Basically, the book revealed: What your inaction, lackadaisical attitude and carelessness can cost you if not sensitive enough. The book also teaches that for to have wisdom, understanding is very vital when it comes to critical issues.

Above all, the book depicts the saying that, “not everyone who started a mission completes it; and that whatever the heart of a man can conceive and believe he can achieve regardless of whatever obstacles.

Lizard as we all know belongs to the class of reptile, while that of rat to the class of Rodent. Yes, it is true that they are often seen around our abodes as if they are domesticated. You are also aware that, they always found within the neighborhood climbing the walls of building, sliding through the open space, undergrowth or woods; climbing the trees in search of tiny insects or grains. Some cases, the lizard nodes its head while stretching its neck in search of its prey or grains for food.

Sometimes, the woods, undergrowths or parted areas within the walls are homes to the lizard. But how come the lizard chose to pick some of these areas as its homes? This is the mystery the book unraveled.

The book also contained glossary that explains words according to how they were used in the book. It is an interesting story book that educates, informs and teaches morals.

Do have a pleasant reading!

Mr. Ezeagu’s other books include: Obi and Ada now in school, etc.

Edozie Ezeagu is the author of these two book and could be reached on 2348174327640, ezeaguedozie@ymail.com

POEM OF THE WEEK

Amicus Corruption

By Fabian Kaduka They devour like tomorrow will never come Wining and dining with fellow debauch With guns and cigars flaming Billowing smoke like industry chimneys Their beetroot eyes, A sign of forgotten remorse hort-changed yet again we are The Promised Land no longer within sight Tongues of deceit, emptier promises, a rule of the day My ballot paper played the key role to the mystery I witness All dossiers of under dealings My yet to be servant ever implicated Hallways of the courts is ever present Fighting to purge himself from putrefaction His tainted construct a bitter pill to the subjects To him, a merchandise of his trade Time is soon fading We await the new rules of the game The new rules of deception to the gullible citizenry Where all the county-folk have scenes to act in their script We are again bought with soul and body And with our might we shall moil and toil at their mercy When at the tail end the valet sweeps to victory Stand tall and unite for time is up unite against the frailty of perversion and transgression For the merger will culminate into our emancipation from “their” grip.

PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESday, april 27, 2016

PAGE 31

FCTA intensifies polio immunization on children in high risk settlements

By Stanley Onyekwere

T

he Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) intensifies itspoliomyelitis immunization programme for children in the Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) Camps, nomadic settlements and other high risk communities, including those inhealth centres sited at selected areas of the Territory. opportunity to receive immunization services, from the 24th to 30th April, 2016, in the health camps sited at selected areas, including those in the Internally Displaced Camps, nomadic settlements and other high risk communities.

According to the FCTA,in order to completely eradicate the disease, it will step upimmunization exercise throughout the length and breadthof the Territory, even though it was last reported in Abuja in 2013.

The Administration promised to increase access to cost effective vaccinations against preventable diseases and make life saving critical health interventions, such as Vitamin A supplementation, nutritional screening and management.

Speaking at the flag-off of the FCT 2016 African Vaccination Week at Saburi Community, a suburb of Abuja, at the weekend,FCT Permanent Secretary, Dr. BabatopeAjaikaiye, noted willingness to provide quality

immunization services to all FCT residents to improve the health and wellbeing of mothers and children in the Territory.

Describing the theme of the flagoff “Close theimmunity gap: Stay Polio Free,” as apt, Ajakaiyedisclosed that the Administration would double its efforts aimed atproviding critical information on health education easily available toall residents.

He explained that the focus of the AfricanVaccination in FCT is to work together with other stakeholders tostrengthen national immunization programmes in the entire Africanregion.

He reiterated that the FCTA places top priority on the targetof

attaining Polio eradication and certification in Nigeria by 2017and is therefore working to ensure availability of all relevantsupplies to meet the demand that will be created.

Ajakaiye however warned that all the resources provided must bejudiciously utilized to improve the health of all the women andchildren in the FCT. He therefore called on all residents to use theopportunity to receive immunization services, from the 24th to 30thApril, 2016, in the health camps, especially those inhigh risk communities.

He also called for the collaboration and support of the Traditionalrulers, religious leaders

and other well-meaning Nigerians in the FCTto eradicate polio in Nigeria as projected.

In the same vein, the Acting Secretary of FCT Health and HumanServices Secretariat (HHSS), Mrs. Alice OdeyAchurecalled the last case of wild poliovirus wasreported three years ago in the FCT, attributing it to thecollaborative efforts of government and other partners.

“As part of activities for the FCT 2016 VaccinationWeek, the FCTA would provide immunization services to IDPs camps and nomadic settlements with poorroutine immunization coverage,” she explained.

Gbagyi women entertaining guests, at a public function yesterday in Abuja.

Man docked for fuel fraud, gets N10, 000 bail

A

Gudu Upper Area Court, Abuja, yesterday granted N10, 000 bail to 27-yearold man, Miracle Isaac, docked for allegedly cheating a woman on the pretext of supplying her fuel.

The judge, Alhaji Umar Kagarko ordered the defendant to produce one surety that

must reside within the court’s jurisdiction.

He, however, adjourned the case till June 29 for continuation of hearing.

Isaac of Plot 7, Area 11, Abuja was arraigned on a two-count charge of criminal breach of trust and cheating.

The Prosecutor, Urom Out, told the court that one Enobong Daniel of Nelson Mandela Street, Asokoro, Abuja, reported the matter at the Garki Police Station on April 22.

He said that the plaintiff went to a Total Filling Station on April 15 to buy fuel but was not successful.

He further said the plaintiff met the defendant in the process and he promised to help her buy the fuel.

Otu said the plaintiff entrusted the defendant with N10, 000 and three 25 litres containers for the purpose.

He said when the plaintiff returned the following day to

collect the fuel as agreed, the defendant was nowhere to be found, until he was seen and arrested on April 22.

He said the offence contravened Sections 312 and 322 of the Penal Code respectively.

The defendant pleaded not guilty.

(NAN)

PAGE 32

PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESday, april 27, 2016

Photo Splash

Business activities at the venue of the National Preaching organized by JIBWIS, recent in Abuja.

Two women hawking groundnut, yesterday at Apo Mechanic, in Abuja.

Young man hawking TV antenna and other accessories along Apo site, yesterday in Abuja.

Vehicle wind screen sellers waiting for customers, yesterday at Waru village, in Abuja.

Wheel barrow pusher on the move, yesterday at Waru village, in Abuja.

Photos: Mahmud Isa

PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESday, april 27, 2016

PAGE 33

Metro

Bizman arraigned for allegedly defiling minor A

38-year-old man, MuhammedKawu, was yesterday arraigned in a Wuse Zone 2 Senior Magistrates’ Court, Abuja, for allegedly defiling a minor.

Kawu, a businessman at Gosa village, Airport Road, Abuja, is facing a one-count charge of defilement.

The Prosecutor, Insp.

Abba Sanni, told the court that one Adams Kunle of Lugbe village, Airport Road, reported the matter at Wuse Police Station on April 4.

Sanni said that the defendant had an unlawful carnal knowledge of the 13-year-old daughter of the complainant without her consent.

He said that the defendant is a family friend and has an unhindered access to the complainant’s residence.

Sanni said that the victim was the only one in the house the day of the incident.

“The accused was on a visit to the parent of the victim when he found out that the girl was the only one at home. “ The accused lured the victim into a room where he raped her after overpowering her.

“He covered her mouth with his hand to prevent her from raising an alarm,’’ Sanni told the court.

The prosecutor said that the victim reported the crime to her father immediately he returned home.

He said the offence contravened Section 275 of the Penal code.

The defendant, however, pleaded not guilty.

The Senior Magistrate, AminuKalid, granted the accused bail in the sum of N100, 000 with a surety in like sum.

Kalid ordered that the surety must reside within the court’s jurisdiction.

He adjourned the matter till May 28 for continuation of hearing.

(NAN)

Children and their mothers at Internally Displace Persons (IDPS), yesterday in Wassa Village, Abuja.

Corps members charged to help clean up Abuja

By Stanley Onyekwere

M

embers of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) posted to serve in Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), have been urged to help the government of the day make the Territory clean and green, by promoting value for proper hygiene and healthy living.

Making this point, the FCT Permanent Secretary, Dr. Babatunde Ajakaiye, while playing host to some NYSC members on Community Development Service (CDS) in the FCT paid him a courtesy call, specifically urged them to key into ongoing public sensitisationprogrammes that will bring positive change in the nation’s capital city.

The corps members, who are in the NYSC Monday CDS group- environmental sanitation, have made the offer to kick start environmental sanitation including drilling of bore holes for the provision of potable water for some FCT poor rural communities.

However, while acknowledging the efforts of the NYSC CDS Group, the Permanent Secretary pointed out the urgent need for environmental cleanliness within the FCT cannot be overstated.

According to Ajakaiye, “As young people you should identify what you will do in the FCT, to promote healthy and aesthetic values of the capital city.

“Today we have heaps of refuse, it’s very sad that some put these dirt on the drains, hence we decided when we came on board to focus on intensive sanitation programme.

“People see govt as the provider of all servicesincluding sweeping their bedrooms, but we were brought up to clean our environment; unfortunately, we are losing the values, hence we want to revive proper sanitation, and we want to ginger the youth to part of it.

He however, urged the corps members, to go all out to re-orientate the people on the

need for proper hygiene.

“Please collaborate with our relevant departments and agencies, so as to guide and monitor our sanitation programmes properly.

“Our society needs to be clean, and there is no reason for the increasing heaps of refuge. We want young men and women to join in our efforts to change society for better.”

On drilling of borehole, he advised that the corps members should not wait on the Government as only source of revenue but should try and mobilize resources through free will donation appeals to Nigerians, to ensure that their objective are achieved.

He however, promised that Government would be proud of them and should be on ground to commission their projects when completed.

“Although, provision of portable water and other amenities it’s supposed to be our responsibilities, but government can no longer do so alone,” he stressed.

Similarly, the Director

of Abuja Environmental Protection Board (AEPB), Baba ShehuLawan assured that his office was ready to partner with corps members and other youth groups, as there are some communities out there in need of urgent assistance.

He therefore urged the group to closely work with relevant departments within the AEPB in pursuing its objectives, as there are many communities that are in dire need of its service.

Leader of the group, Nwaokolo CarlChukwudubem, the NYSCCDS group are committed towards achieving its aim by embarking on intensive environmental sensitization campaign around the FCT, aimed at improving living in the capital city.

Nwakolo, who is the president of the Monday NYSC CDS group, explained that they are putting resources together to drill boreholes, starting with a Gosa community, so as to give people access to potable water, and thereby alleviate their plight.

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PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESday, april 27, 2016

Money Sense

By Marianna Zanetti

T

he first thing I am going to say about wealth is that many authors who write about prosperity and wealth make it clear: A job will not make you rich.

If you want to be wealthy, at some moment of your life, you will have to create a source of income other than your salary. This is an evident and crushing reality: If you sell your time to others, you will quickly reach a limit in your capacity to generate income.

In his book “Rich Dad, Poor Dad,” Robert Kiyosaki said that the rich do not work for money; they generate assets that work for them. If you want to learn how to work for money, go to school.

If you want to learn how to work even harder, you should get an MBA. OK, some top managers earn millions (and they are therefore millionaires).

Some people still think they can get to those positions with an MBA — as if the Businessweek study, which found an MBA does not have a causal relationship with professional success, was not convincing enough.

Do you want some more proof that an MBA will not get you there? If you look at the degrees of CEOs of the CAC 40 (the main stock exchange index in France), you will see that the MBA is nothing but an “optional” degree.

In some companies, it is still desirable to climb the corporate ladder.

These companies represent a very low percentage of the companies in the market, and

If you want to be rich, don’t get an MBA you do not need an MBA if your biggest ambition in life is to climb to a top management position.

But let’s go back to the topic that interests you: how to be rich.

If you want to be rich, you must be an entrepreneur, investor, or both. By a simple matter of statistics, your probability of becoming a rock star, sports star, or Standard & Poor’s CEO are very low (and believe me, the MBA will not increase your probability of becoming a Standard & Poor’s CEO).

The richest men in the world are entrepreneurs and do not have MBAs. Many of them have no degree at all or quit college when they realized that it was only teaching them to be employees and to obey.

Today these people hire the ones who have degrees. Consider the cases of Mark Zuckerberg with Facebook, Bill Gates with Microsoft, Steve Jobs with Apple, Amancio Ortega with Zara– Inditex, Richard Branson with Virgin, or Ingvar Kamprad with Ikea.

And there are a lot of anonymous rich men and women who have never sat in a college classroom to learn how to be corporate slaves.

…and 15 businesses you can start with N1million or less (1) A

re you serious about starting a business, but lack the big bucks? Before you take out a bank loan, consider that you can start a number of businesses for as little as several hundred dollars. We’ve compiled a list of 15 proven businesses that you can start for N1,000,000 or less in overhead. Some require little outlay, but lots of time; others require more energy; still others don’t require much at all.

One of the business ideas below might just be your next big thing.

Virtual assisting: Virtual assistants help clients with a variety of projects from their home offices. Tasks may be administrative, but can also relate to marketing, Web design, IT, and other tasks. Virtual assistants communicate with their clients via Internet, phone, or fax.

Overhead: Your computer, phone system, and Internet connection are your lifeblood in this industry. If you already own the relevant machines, make sure you have the means to pay for good connections on a monthly basis.

Many virtual assistants come

from a non-virtual (on-the-job) background.

Recurring expenses: A good Internet and phone connection.

Subscription fees for job-finding services such as ELance.

Time/energy requirement: You will need a solid business plan, marketing strategy, and training. At the beginning, you may work between 14-18 hours per day.

Income potential: Most virtual assistants make money per hour, according to this survey.

App development Apps are taking over the world! If you have a propensity for Web development, enough skill to work in various platforms (iPhone, iPad, Droid, etc.), it’s time to mine the app craze.

Overhead: N500,000 – N1,000,000 Many companies now exist that will take your amazing Smartphone application idea and develop it into a real, sellable app for download. Upfront costs include a development period where they will work with you to best design the application. Most

of these companies charge from N200,000 – 400,000 and many keep partial ownership of the application as the developer. But you are also gaining entry into a highly technical marketplace.

Recurring expenses: Ongoing marketing and spreading the news about your app will be your greatest time and money expenditure. You might consider hiring PR or marketing company familiar with getting new apps reviewed. Make sure that your app is included on the relevant blogs and news outlets who report on new apps.

Time/energy requirement: Not very much if you have the next killer app idea. Filling out some forms and conceptualizing how the app will work is the hard part. Making sure the build does what you envisioned will be the second. Outside of that, the marketing effort and telling everyone you know about your app will be imperative.

Income potential: Varies wildly. But, if you have an app priced at $1.99 and 10,000 people download it, you can always spend the N500,000 and start another one. However, even joke apps have sold hundreds of thousands, so it is worth the shot.

PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESday, april 27, 2016

world news

Page 35

international_peoplesdailyng@yahoo.com

Iraq war 13 years on:

‘I was lucky to stay alive’ ANALYSIS

By Salam Khoder

A

s Iraq marks 13 years since the US invasion and occupation, the costs of the war continue to accrue, generation after generation.

While Iraqis continue to live with the legacies of the war, this is not the Iraq that so many of its people once knew. Here, Iraqis reflect on the indelible marks this conflict has left on their lives.

‘I do not know what my daughter looks like now’ Shaimaa, 46, could not hold back tears as she recounted how her life changed after the United States-led occupation of Iraq in 2003. She lost many loved ones and has not seen her daughter for years.

Shaimaa, who currently lives in Erbil, met her husband, Ismail, in 1998. Within a few months, they were married. “Our life was simple, but we were happy,” she recalls. “Not in my worst nightmares could I have imagined that everything would change within a few years.”

My husband was a good man before the war, but the militia changed him.

He became a cruel husband, he took my child away, and he wouldn’t let me see her.

Shortly after the US invasion of Iraq, Ismail, a Shia Muslim, decided to join a militia. At first, he kept it a secret, but one day he came back home wearing a uniform.

Shaimaa could do nothing to convince him to defect. “My daughter, Yasmine, was three years old at the time.

It was hard for me to see Ismail become a fighter, but I had to accept that fact; I could not leave him,” she said.

The couple went through three turbulent years of family disputes. In 2006, events took a dramatic turn for Shaimaa when her brother, Mustafa, was abducted. Three days later, he was found dead on a deserted road in Baghdad.

“We could barely recognise him. His body was [swollen], with holes in it. It was obvious that he was tortured, then killed,” she said. Shaimaa mourned the loss of her younger brother for days on end. They were very close.

At the time, Iraq was hit by a wave of sectarian violence, in which thousands of people were killed.

Barely three weeks after her brother’s death, Ismael told her that “her brother deserved no mercy”.

Torturing and killing him was meant to set an example for all Iraqis who oppose the government, he said.

“I realised then that my husband had something to do with the murder of Mustafa,” Shaimaa said, noting the realisation led her to have a nervous breakdown. “I was locked [by my husband] in a room with neither food nor water for days, but the worst part

Thirteen years since the US invasion and occupation of Iraq, the costs are still accruing [Getty Images] was when Ismael took Yasmine, who was six at the time, to live with his mother and father.”

Shaimaa begged her husband to bring Yasmine back home. “I promised to say nothing about what he did. He threatened to take Yasmine away from me. I couldn’t leave her.” In 2008, Ismael ended the marriage and forced Shaimaa out of the house, but kept their daughter.

Shaimaa said the lives of many Iraqis changed greatly after the invasion, before which little attention was paid to who was Sunni and who was Shia, and mixed marriages among Sunni and Shia Muslims were common.

“My husband was a good man before the war, but the militia changed him,” she said. “He became a cruel husband, he took my child away, and he wouldn’t let me see her.”

It has been eight years since Shaimaa last saw her daughter. “I don’t even have a picture of her. I don’t know what she looks like now. She is 16 years old.”

At times, Shaimaa imagines talking to Yasmine: “I have missed your childhood; I was not there for you when you needed me most. I have tried to see you and I will keep trying, and if we meet again, I hope that you will forgive me.”

Baraa H Ali, 41, is adamant that he does not want to return to Baghdad. His memories of the city are mostly reduced to his kidnapping experience. “I was abducted, humiliated and tortured for four months. I can’t imagine myself going back there again or even to alAdhamiyah, where I grew up.”

I was raped, electrocuted. They would beat me for hours, and they would not stop until I lost consciousness. They did all that because of my religious identity.

Ali, an engineer by profession, says he would rather stay in Amman, Jordan,

where he works with a local NGO. Although almost 11 years have passed since his abduction, he still recalls it vividly. “I was taken away from my house for no reason. Armed men came into the neighbourhood on the evening of July 17, 2005. They raided houses searching for men and male teenagers, and they took all those whom they could find, leaving only women and children.”

Ali recalls being taken into a building facing the Babylon Hotel, where he was detained for four months.

He was put in an underground prison called the “Shelter” by guards.

Later turned into al-Jaderiah prison, it was originally built as a bunker during Saddam Hussein’s rule. Part was above ground, but it also consisted of offices and underground facilities.

“They would keep all prisoners underground,” Ali said. “Three or four of us were put together in small rooms.

We had no access to toilets; we did not see the sunlight and were poorly fed.”

The worst time for Ali was when prison guards called on him, because it meant they were taking him to one

of the interrogation rooms. Ali accuses the Badr militia, a Shia group, of kidnapping him and running the secret prison. He still remembers the horrific torture sessions he went through: “I was raped, electrocuted. They would beat me for hours, and they would not stop until I lost consciousness. They did all that because of my religious identity.”

Ali did not pursue psychological therapy after his release. He left immediately for Amman, vowing never to return to Iraq. “I still cannot grasp how people can do this to each other. What happened in that shelter was horrible. I was lucky to stay alive.

Others died under torture or due to medical neglect.”

In November 2005, US occupation forces raided and closed Jaderiah prison, finding 169 prisoners in serious condition. All had been subjected to torture and were suffering from malnutrition. Some were released, but the majority were transferred to other detention centres.

Following the shutdown of the “Shelter”, former Iraqi Interior Minister Bayan Jabr Soulagh held a press

“

My husband was a good man before the war, but the militia changed him,” she said. “He became a cruel husband, he took my child away, and he wouldn’t let me see her.”

It has been eight years since Shaimaa last saw her daughter. “I don’t even have a picture of her. I don’t know what she looks like now. She is 16 years old

conference in 2005 acknowledging that Jaderiah prison existed, but claiming that all the detainees were “terrorists” and interrogation sessions were held in the presence of a judge.

The ministry said at the time that it would conduct an official investigation into the claims of torture, but no official report was ever publicised.

‘The government could not protect the scholars’ It was 9:30am when several cars arrived at one of the buildings of the Iraqi Education Ministry in Baghdad on November 11, 2006. Nothing was suspicious about the convoy, and the guards simply allowed the armed men inside, assuming that a high-profile official was visiting.

Soon, the guards were all handcuffed and put in a small room along with other employees. The armed men then raided the offices and abducted 150 employees, put them in buses and drove away.

Tens of professors were kidnapped and tortured and killed, and their bodies would be found in the streets.

Abed Diab al-Oujaily, 56, the education minister at the time, vividly recalls what happened on that day.

“I was in my office when I got a phone call about the attack from one of the employees. I immediately called the prime minister, Ibrahim Jaafari, and the interior minister, Bayan Jabr Soulagh, hoping that they could do something to stop the attack,” Oujaily said, noting on that same day, he delivered a speech demanding immediate action, but “nothing was done”.

The 150 employees were taken to a residential area in Baghdad, some of the survivors testified later. The kidnappers split the abducted employees into groups and put each group in a different house.

Thirty-five of the 150 employees remain missing to this day. Oujaily says he cannot name the militia that carried out the attack. He insists, however, that “the armed men belong to one of the militia groups that was affiliated and protected by some ministers in the Iraqi government then”.

Although information about that incident - provided by those who survived - is available in the interior ministry’s archive, Ali says no official investigation was opened.

The attack on the education ministry was not an isolated incident. In 2006, Iraq drifted into a civil war after the bombing of the al-Askari shrine in Samarra, one of the holy places for Iraqi Shia. A wave of violence followed the attack, and the country was torn apart during two years of sectarian fighting.

There is no official number of civilian casualties during those two years. The United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI) estimates that more than 2,600 civilians were killed between November and December of 2006 alone.

Sources: aljazeera.com

PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESday, april 27, 2016

Page

News From Africa South Sudan rebel chief Riek Burundi president Machar returns to Juba condemns killing of top army general

B

urundi’s President Pierre Nkurunziza has condemned the killing of a senior army officer in the capital Bujumbura as violence that began a year ago appeared to intensify.

Brigadier General Athanase Kararuza, who was also a military adviser in the office of the vice president, was shot along with his wife and bodyguard on Monday in an attack that wounded their child.

The general’s car came under rocket and gunfire as he was on his way to drop his child at school, army spokesman Gaspard Baratuza told the Reuters news agency.

“He energetically fought against the coup plotters last year and contributed exceptionally in strengthening peace and security during and after elections,” Nkurunziza said in a statement.

“We humbly pray that with the help of God perpetrators of the shameful acts are arrested and quickly punished according to the law.”

Kararuza previously worked as a deputy commander of an international peacekeeping force in the Central African Republic.

Tit-for-tat attacks between Nkurunziza’s security forces and his opponents have escalated since April 2015 when he announced plans to change the consititution to allow him to run for a third term as president.

He went on to win reelection three months later in a poll fiercely disputed by the opposition.

The UN says that more than 400 people have been killed and more than 250,000 have fled since the violence broke out.

Also on Monday, the International Criminal Court said it would investigate alleged war crimes in the country during the period and that it had received complaints “detailing acts of killing, imprisonment, torture, rape and other forms of sexual violence, as well as cases of enforced disappearances”.

Nkurunziza’s opponents said his third term bid broke a peace agreement that ended a previous civil war, while the government said a third term was legal, citing a constitutional court ruling.

Three armed groups, including one led by officers that attempted a coup in May 2015, have launched rebellions against the government.

S

outh Sudan’s rebel leader Riek Machar has arrived in the capital, Juba, after a week-long delay that has threatened to scupper a peace deal.

He is expected to be sworn in later as the first vice-president in a new unity government.

This is a key part of the deal aimed at ending more than two years of conflict that has killed tens of thousands and left two million people homeless.

Mr Machar fled Juba at the start of the conflict in December 2013.

He had been accused of trying to organise a coup, which he denied - but it set off a round of titfor-tat killings, which developed into a full-blown conflict.

Mr Machar, wearing a lightcoloured shirt, was greeted by ministers and diplomats as he stepped out of his plane, the AFP news agency reports.

He is expected to head

A

Riek Machar (R) is to be vice-president in a new unity government led

by President Salva Kiir (L)

immediately to the presidential palace to be sworn in as President Salva Kiir’s deputy.

The civil war broke out over tensions between Mr Kiir and Mr Machar, who was sacked as vicepresident in July 2013.

The BBC’s James Copnall in Juba says once the government is formed, donors will start stumping

up money - crucial as the economy is at rock bottom.

However, it is not necessarily the end of the conflict as both sides have continued to clash despite a ceasefire signed in August, he says.

There are also rebel groups which have not signed the peace deal.

Kenya’s former first lady Lucy Kibaki dies in London

K

enya’s controversial former first lady, Lucy Kibaki, has died in a London hospital of an undisclosed illness.

She gained notoriety for slapping a cameraman in 2005 when she stormed the offices of a private media group in anger at the way a story about her had been reported.

In a tribute to Mrs Kibaki, President Uhuru Kenyatta praised her for her role in fighting HIV/Aids in Kenya.

Mr Kenyatta succeeded her husband Mwai Kikabi, who governed from 2002 to 2013.

Mrs Kibaki, who was born in 1940, had withdrawn from public life during the latter part of her husband’s rule.

She was last seen at a public function was in August 2010, when she seemed excited about the adoption of a new constitution, dancing to a famous gospel song, Kenya’s Daily Nation newspaper reports.

Mr Kenyatta said she had been unwell for the last month, receiving treatment in both Kenya and the UK. Mrs Kibaki trained as a teacher, leaving her job not long after her marriage in 1962 to raise her four children.

“Her Excellency will be remembered for her immense contribution in the development of country,” Mr Kenyatta said in a statement.

According to the Daily Nation, she organised the First International Aids Run in 2003.

But correspondents say she also provoked condemnation when she said unmarried young people

South African inventor wins Vodacom ‘Please Call Me’ battle South African man has won his legal bid to force leading mobile phone firm Vodacom to pay him for inventing a popular messaging service.

The country’s highest court ordered the firm to compensate ex-employee Nkosana Makate for the Please Call Me service.

He waged a nine-year court battle, accusing Vodafone of breaching an agreement to pay him.

Please Call Me was introduced in 2001, allowing prepaid phone users to send a free text asking to be phoned back.

“I have no hard feelings towards Vodacom. I love the company. I worked for it since I was 18-years-old‚“ a visibly elated Mr Makate said after the judgment, South Africa’s Times Live news site reports.

Julius Malema: Ready to remove Zuma government by force

J

Lucy Kibaki was involved in several controversies as first lady

had “no business” using condoms, calling on students to abstain from sex in order to avoid infection with HIV. Mrs Kibaki was the most controversial of Kenya’s first ladies, crossing swords with politicians, diplomats, journalists and policemen she believed had not treated her with sufficient respect.

Just months after her husband became president, she is reported to have shut down a bar inside State House that was a watering hole for ministers and close allies of Mr Kibaki.

In 2005, she stormed into the house of her neighbour, the World Bank’s then-country director

Makhtar Diop, in a tracksuit at midnight and demanded he turn his music down at a private party to mark the end of his posting in Kenya.

She also went to the local police station in shorts to demand that Mr Diop and his guests be arrested for disturbing the peace.

Later, she burst into the offices of the influential Nation Media Group with her bodyguards and demanded that the reporter who had written about her confrontation with Mr Diop be arrested.

She slapped cameraman Clifford Derrick who was filming her and refused to leave the offices until 0530 the next day.

ulius Malema is never far from the spotlight. In 2012, his aggressive and divisive brand of rhetoric led to expulsion from South Africa’s ruling African National Congress (ANC).

As head of the influential ANC youth league he had earlier helped Jacob Zuma become South Africa’s president.

If they respond violently....

We will run out of patience very soon and we will remove this government through the barrel of a gun.

Many observers wrote him off, but he re-emerged quickly as head of a new party, the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), becoming a member of parliament in 2014.

Their fight, Malema says, is against white-held capital, and the “irritant”, as he now describes Jacob Zuma.

His economic policies, including nationalisation of industry and expropriation without compensation, play well on the streets and badly in company boardrooms.

“We are not to wage any war against Zuma and the ANC,” Malema says.

“We are waging a war against the white monopoly capital.

Zuma is not our enemy, the ANC is not our enemy.

PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESday, april 27, 2016

Two gay rights activists hacked to death in Bangladesh

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wo people, including the editor of a magazine for the transgender community, have been hacked to death in the capital of Bangladesh.

A third person, a security guard at the apartment building where the killings took place, was seriously wounded in Monday’s attack in Dhaka, in which six attackers murdered Julhas Mannan and Tanay Mojumdar.

Mannan was the editor of Rupban, the only LGBT magazine in the country.

“Unidentified attackers entered an apartment at Kalabagan and hacked two people to death,” Maruf Hossain Sarder, a Dhaka Metropolitan Police spokesman, told the AFP news agency.

No suspects have been arrested, police officer Shamim Ahmed told the Associated Press news agency.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina Hasina vowed to hunt down and prosecute those responsible.

She accused the country’s opposition party and what she called allied armed groups of being behind the killings. The opposition has denied the allegations.

“The BNP-Jamaat nexus has been engaged in such secret and heinous murders in various forms to destabilise the country,” Hasina said, referring to the opposition Bangladesh Nationalist party and the outlawed Jamaat-eIslami party.

“Such killings are being staged in a planned way.”

But the BNP called Hasina’s accusations “ridiculous and unfortunate”.

“How can the government come to the conclusion without any proper investigation?”

Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, the secretary general, told Al Jazeera.

“Instead of finding the murderers, the government is busy accusing the democratic opposition,” he said, adding the government has failed to investigate a spate of recent killings.

Alamgir said that govermnment repression of opposition has shrunk the democratic space and the extremists are taking advantage of that.

A group affiliated to al-Qaeda later claimed responsibility, the Reuters news agency has reported.

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Asia&Middle-east

PNG court rules Australia’s Manus detention centre unconstitutional

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apua New Guinea’s Supreme Court has ruled that the detention of asylum seekers and refugees on Manus Island is unconstitutional.

Australia sends asylum seekers to the Manus Island detention centre under its offshore processing policy.

But the five judges on the Supreme Court’s bench ruled the camp breached section 42 of the constitution, which guarantees personal liberty.

The court said “all steps” should be taken to end the “illegal” detention.

Currently around 850 men are held on the island, around half of whom have been judged genuine refugees.

Papua New Guinea’s constitution guarantees personal liberty for all people, except in defined circumstances relating to crime, illegal immigration and quarantine.

In 2014, Papua New Guinea’s government amended section 42 of the constitution to add a paragraph that allowed for “holding a foreign national under arrangements made

by Papua New Guinea with another country”.

But the Supreme Court ruled this amendment was unconstitutional, as it did not meet a requirement to respect “the rights and dignity of mankind”.

It said that because the asylum

India ‘sedition’ students suspended

India state Bihar issues summer advisory on daytime cooking

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The camp is a former Australian military facility

seekers and refugees had not voluntarily entered Papua New Guinea, the situation of illegal immigration did not apply to them.

“The detention of the asylum seekers on Manus Island in Papua New Guinea… is unconstitutional and illegal,” it said.

“Both the Australian and Papua New Guinea governments shall forthwith take all steps necessary to cease and prevent the continued unconstitutional and illegal detention of the asylum seekers or transferees at the relocation centre on Manus Island and the continued breach of the asylum seekers’ or transferees’ constitutional and human rights.”

The camp first opened in 2001 under Prime Minister John Howard.

It was formally closed in 2008, but reopened in 2012 when a spike in asylum seeker arrivals became a major political issue for the Labor government.

In 2013 Australia agreed to give Papua New Guinea A$400m ($309m; £212m) in aid in exchange for housing a camp and to resettle genuine refugees.

Deadly riots broke out in February 2014 when local residents entered the facility. In January 2015 some detainees barricaded themselves inside their compound and went on hunger strike.

he disaster management authorities in the northern Indian state of Bihar have advised villagers to avoid cooking between 9am and 6pm to prevent outbreak of fires during the scorching summer.

People have been advised to also refrain from holding religious fire rituals or burning dry crops.

The advisory was issued on Monday on orders from the state chief minister.

It came after reports that 67 people had died in the state in fire-related incidents in the past month.

Several parts of India, including Bihar, are in the grip of a severe heat wave with temperatures crossing 40C. “After a review of fire incidents, we’ve seen that most of them were caused by cooking fires. That’s why we have issued an advisory to villagers that they must finish cooking before 9am and put out the fires when they finish,” senior disaster management official Vyas, who uses only one name, told BBC Hindi’s Manish Shandilya.

Palestinians battle Israel to bury their sons

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wo Indian students accused of sedition for helping organise a protest at Delhi’s Jawaharlal Nehru University have been suspended.

Umar Khalid has been suspended for one semester and Anirban Bhattacharya has been barred from campus for five years.

Both students, and student leader Kanhaiya Kumar, who was also charged with sedition, have also been fined.

The three students were involved in a protest, on 9 February, over the hanging of a Kashmiri man, Afzal Guru.

Afzal Guru was convicted of a 2001 plot to attack India’s parliament, charges he always denied. The attack, in which 14 people died, was carried out by Kashmiri militants.

His hanging in 2013 sparked protests in Kashmir, and he was seen as a martyr and a symbol of perceived injustice.

On 9 February, students at JNU held a demonstration to mark his execution. There were allegations that anti-India slogans were chanted at the protest.

Among the bodies withheld by the Israelis is that of Bahaa Allyan, whose family home was destroyed as a punitive measure [Wojtek Arciszewski/Al Jazeera]

J

erusalem - “We have always demanded the release of Palestinian political prisoners; it is hard to imagine that we are now forced to demand the release of Palestinian corpses too,” muttered Khaled Manasra, the father of Hassan Manasra, whose body has been withheld by Israel since last October.

Hassan, a 15-year-old tenth grader from the neighbourhood of Beit Hanina in occupied East Jerusalem, was killed by Israeli police after allegedly trying to stab Israeli teenagers along with his cousin, Ahmed Manasra. While Ahmed languishes behind bars

after enduring severe interrogation, Hassan’s body sits in an Israeli morgue.

“I’m not even calling for investigation into my son’s killing. All I’m asking for is the right to bury my son in peace, without restrictions,” Khaled told Al Jazeera. “If Israeli courts were indeed concerned with achieving justice, they would have ordered the release of my son’s body immediately.”

To quell the unrest engulfing Jerusalem and much of the occupied West Bank last October, the Israeli security cabinet approved a series of repressive measures, including

punitive home demolitions of families of suspected Palestinian assailants and the withholding of their bodies.

The decision revived a decadeslong Israeli policy, unofficially halted in 2004, of withholding bodies of suspected Palestinian attackers. The Jerusalem Legal Aid and Human Rights Center said that in recent decades, at least 268 Palestinian combatants had been buried in so-called “cemeteries of numbers”, designated by Israel as closed military zones. The Palestinians buried there are identified by numbers etched on metal plates.

PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESday, april 27, 2016

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Europe &

Chernobyl disaster: Ukraine marks 30th anniversary

People laid flowers at a memorial to firefighters and workers who died in the disaster

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ommemorations are under way in Ukraine to mark the 30th anniversary of the nuclear disaster at Chernobyl.

Sirens were sounded at the same moment as the first explosion at the reactor, in the early hours of 26 April 1986.

The meltdown at the Soviet plant was the worst nuclear disaster in history.

An uncontrolled reaction blew the roof off, spewing out a cloud of radioactive material which drifted into other parts of the USSR,

including Russia and Belarus, and northern Europe.

Relatives of those who died attended candle-lit vigils at several churches, including at Slavutych, a town built to re-house workers who lived near the nuclear plant. A series of events are being held throughout the day.

Media captionChernobyl engineer Yuriy Andreyev recalls the day disaster struck Media captionBBC Rewind looks at what was done to stop further damage

Ecuador earthquake rescue dog dies

Paris attacks:

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rescue dog which saved a number of people after the Ecuador earthquake has died.

The Labrador was used to search for survivors after the 7.8 magnitude quake struck off the Ecuadorean coast last week.

At least 655 people died, 48 are still missing and thousands are injured after whole towns were destroyed.

The Ibarra fire department said Dayko died from heatstroke after working to find anyone trapped in rubble.

At least 27 countries have sent rescue teams to Ecuador over the past week and 113 people have been rescued alive.

Foreign nationals from the UK, Ireland, Canada, Colombia, Cuba and the Dominican Republic have been confirmed among the dead.

Ecuador’s president Rafael Correa said during a visit to the worst-affected region that the cost of rebuilding could be up to $3bn (£2.1bn).

Earthquake zone in Ecuador It’s been reported that Dayko saved around seven people in the rescue effort since last week.

Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko laid a wreath and observed a minute’s silence in the Ukrainian capital Kiev before heading north for a ceremony at the plant itself, not far from the Belarussian border.

Speaking in Chernobyl, he said the nuclear disaster had been Ukraine’s biggest challenge between the Nazi occupation in World War Two and the recent conflict in eastern Ukraine, which he described as “Russian aggression”.

“At a time when we still need

immense resources to tackle the consequences of the Chernobyl disaster, when we need funding for social support to fire-fighters and victims, we have to spend almost one-fifth of our budget expenses on defence and security,” he said.

Vasyl Markin, who had been working in Chernobyl at the time of the disaster, attended the midnight vigil in Slavutych.

“This tragedy will stay with us till the end of our lives,” he said. “I won’t be able to forget it anyway.”

Some former residents returned to the area, now derelict and overgrown, ahead of the anniversary.

Zoya Perevozchenko, 66, had lived in Pripyat, the town inhabited

by Chernobyl workers which was abandoned in the wake of the accident.

She told Reuters news agency: “I barely found my apartment, I mean it’s a forest now - trees growing through the pavement, on the roofs.

All the rooms are empty, the glass is gone from the windows and everything’s destroyed.”

Levels of radioactivity remain high in the surrounding area. A charity, Bridges to Belarus, is warning that a number of babies in a region close to Ukraine’s border are still being born with serious deformities, while an unusually high rate of people have rare forms of cancer.

Suicide bomber video shown on French TV

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isturbing video of an Islamic State militant blowing himself up on the night of the Paris attacks in November has been broadcast in France.

The CCTV footage shows Brahim Abdesalam detonating his suicide belt in the Comptoir Voltaire cafe.

It has drawn shocked comments on social media but no formal complaint to France’s broadcast regulator.

Documentary maker Christian Huleu said it was important to show the reality of the militants’ violence.

He defended the use of the images, which are the most graphic of the attacks yet seen on French television.

The video was part of a 90-minute film broadcast on Sunday evening on Zone Interdite (Forbidden Zone) , a current affairs programme on the independent channel M6. M6 did not say how it obtained the footage.

Brahim Abdeslam died when he detonated his suicide belt in November 2015 There was widespread outrage in the aftermath of the attacks when it was reported that the Daily Mail had bought CCTV from

When Abdeslam blew himself up in the Comptoir Voltaire cafe 15 people were injured, one severely.

another cafe for 50,000 euros (£39,000; $56,000).

The M6 documentary which went out at 21:00 and carried a strapline warning of its explicit content - used eyewitness interviews as well as amateur and surveillance video to give a detailed chronological account of the November 13 killings.

Brahim Abdeslam was the elder brother of Salah Abdeslam, the only surviving attacker. Salah is

now in jail in Belgium.

In the video, Brahim is seen inside the Comptoir Voltaire, wearing a black coat. He begins moving among the tables, where people are seated in twos and threes enjoying Friday evening drinks.

As he advances, he bows his head slightly and puts his left hand over his face. The next frame shows the explosion and the top half of his body being projected forward.

US election 2016: Trump and Clinton vie for northeast

Voters in five north-eastern US states are casting ballots in a series of primaries that could cement the leads of presidential frontrunners Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump.

Democrat Mrs Clinton and Republican Mr Trump hold sizeable leads in all five contests, according to recent polling.

Mr Trump’s rivals have already shifted focus away from the north-east.

Ted Cruz and John Kasich have teamed up to help each other in the Indiana, Oregon and New Mexico primaries.

Mr Trump has condemned their pact as a sign of weakness and desperation.

Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump are poised for a dominating showing in one of the last multi-state primary days of the 2016 presidential campaign.

Last week in New York the two frontrunners reasserted themselves after a string of stumbles both at the ballot boxes and in the headlines.

This week they could consolidate their position at the top - or more.

It’s hard to imagine a scenario where Democrat Clinton doesn’t have the nomination sewn up by Wednesday morning. She is in Philadelphia on Tuesday and might want to check out hotel suites near the site of July’s Democratic National Convention.

Republican Trump’s path to his party’s nomination remains more uncertain - but a strong result on Tuesday will edge him ever-closer to the magic 1,237 delegate mark and make wresting the prize from his grasp all the more difficult.

It looks like Mr Trump’s poor showing in Wisconsin three weeks ago was just a blip and not evidence of a campaign in decline. It proved that if the political stars aligned - united Republican opposition, a hostile local media and a string of missteps by the Trump team - the New Yorker is beatable. To the despair of the #NeverTrump forces, however, those circumstances may not appear again.

Connecticut, Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania and Rhode Island are holding primaries on Tuesday.

In the Republican race, the candidates are focused on blocking Mr Trump from gaining 1,237 delegates and so forcing a contested convention this July in Cleveland.

That would mean party delegates - Republican officials and activists choose the nominee.

The hope of a contested convention is keeping Mr Kasich and Mr Cruz in the race. Both candidates have no chance of securing the nomination outright.

PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESday, april 27, 2016

Strange

Page 39

world

Chinese man who looked heavily pregnant for more than a DECADE finally has huge 2st tumour removed missed several opportunities to treat the illness. We have visited many other hospitals in the past, doctors said the success rate was low so we were sent home.’

His sister added that before the operation, he was eternally single single as women were put off by his ‘pregnant’ stomach.

The news comes after earlier this month MailOnline reported on the story of a Peruvian woman who had a 2st 5lbs (33lbs or 15kg) tumour removed after it had

By Madlen Davies

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Chinese man who lived with a tumour so big he looked heavily pregnant for a decade has finally had the two-stone growth removed from his stomach.

The 33-year-old said he let the mass increase for 10 years as he believed it could be treated with traditional remedies.

Eventually it had grown so huge it weighed 2st 5lbs (33lbs or 15kg) - and made him appear as though he was expecting a child.

The hospital did not reveal the name of the man, who lives in Leshan, a city in China’s south-western Sichuan Province, and so the local media dubbed him Zhang Cheng.

He originally went to the doctors in 2004 when his stomach felt uncomfortable - and a lump was found in 2006.

Its not known if the tumour is cancerous - but it is believed it is benign otherwise medics would have removed it as a matter of emergency.

After it swelled to the size of a beach ball doctors said the mass was pressing on his internal organs and his bowels - which could potentially be fatal.

Despite going to various hospitals across China, other medics told him an operation to remove it would be risky, so he was repeatedly sent home, his sister told Chengdu Business Daily.

Eventually, the family raised the money to have the tumour cut out at the Military General Hospital in Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan Province. Dr Dai Ruiwu, lead surgeon at the hospital, carried out the complicated six-hour operation - which required the help of experts from three clinical departments.

As the growth had been pressing on Mr Cheng’s internal organs for years, Dr Ruiwu said he needed to be kept in intensive care afterwards.

His sister told local newspaper: ‘Because our family is poor, my brother

Zhang Cheng, 33, lived with a tumour so big it made him look heavily pregnant for a decade. He has now finally had the growth removed

been growing for 13 years.

Irianita Rojas Rasma, 22, from north-eastern Peru, looked pregnant due to the mass - which caused her constant pain and meant she had to leave both school and her job.

After the Peruvian health minister, Anibal Velasquez, visited her town and heard her story he immediately ordered his staff to bring her to a hospital in Lima for surgery to remove it.

Source: Dailymail.com

After the mass swelled to the size of a beach ball doctors said it was pressing on his internal organs and his bowels which could potentially be fatal. They removed it in a ‘risky’ six-hour operation

Mr Cheng is being kept in intensive care after the operation as the 33lb (15kg tumour) had been pressing on his organs for so long. He first went to the doctor in 2004 complaining of a pain in his stomach

PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESday, april 27, 2016

Page 40

Digest

Worrying may be good for you

By Richard Gray

It is typically something to be avoided due the impact it is said to have on people’s mental and physical health.

But it seems being anxious at the right moment does have its benefits.

Researchers have discovered that high levels of anxiety appear to change the way we spot danger, which makes us better able to respond to threats.

Although anxiety (stock image pictured) is often associated with negative impacts on mental and physical health, scientists have found that anxious individuals deal with danger. The motor cortex the area responsible for movement - process threats in anxious people compared to the sensory circuits in those who are laid back In particular, the researchers found anxious people detect threats in a different region of the brain from those who are feeling laid back, processing it in an area responsible for controlling movement.

Those who are do not suffer from anxiety, however, process social threat signals in sensory circuits - the temporal region of the brain, responsible for face recognition.

This difference may allow anxious individuals to take faster action when they feel like they are in danger.

Writing in the journal ELife, Dr Marwa El Zein, an expert in social cognition at the French Institute of Health and Medical Research in Paris, and her colleagues, said their findings build on previous work that

The researchers used a series of facial expressions to assess how volunteer’s brains reacted to facial expressions showing anger or fear. They found looking directly at the person while angry lowered the response, while looking away while fearful increased the response (pictured) found anxious people tend to be hyper-sensitive to threat detection.

‘Our findings reveal that high-anxious individuals are capable of encoding threat signals in a selective fashion in motor cortex,’ they explained.

‘Consistent with the idea of a compensatory mechanism, the distinct neural enhancements of temporal and motor activity found in low- and high-anxious

individuals lead to similar behavioral improvements in terms of perceptual sensitivity to threat signals.

‘Together, this pattern of findings suggests that anxiety increases the relative contribution of the motor pathway during the processing of negative social signals.’

This could help to explain why anxiety has continued to persist in human populations

despite its negative associations with stress, depression and physical health.

The researchers added it was ‘in accordance with the adaptive function of anxiety in detecting efficiently and reacting swiftly to threats in the environment’.

Dr El Zein, who is also a researcher at the Ecole Supérieure Normale in Paris, and her colleagues measured the electrical activity in the brains of

The researchers used a series of facial expressions to assess how volunteer’s brains reacted to facial expressions showing anger or fear.

They found looking directly at the person while angry lowered the response, while looking away while fearful increased the response (pictured)

24 volunteers.

The researchers found that people who were highly anxious tended to use the motor cortex (illustrated bottom) more to deal with threats, while those with low anxiety tended to rely upon the temporal area of the brain to detect both threats and nonthreatening stimulus (illustrated top) They were each shown a selection of angry or fearful faces, some of which had the direction of their gaze altered.

They found the direction a person is looking plays a key role in enhancing our sensitivity to emotions.

Anger paired with a direct gaze produced a response in the brain in just 200 milliseconds, while if an angry person was looking elsewhere, then the response was slower.

The brain was also able to detect other negative emotions such as fear more quickly than positive emotions.

Dr El Zein said: ‘In a crowd, you will be most sensitive to an angry face looking towards you, and will be less alert to an angry person looking somewhere else.

‘In contrast to previous work, our findings demonstrate that the brain devotes more processing resources to negative emotions that signal threat, rather than to any display of negative emotion.’

Each volunteer was also measured for their anxiety levels before each experiment, and those with high levels tended to have more activity in the areas of the brain that govern movement.

The research has identified which regions of the brain are responsible for encoding social threats in the brain when compared to non-threatening behaviour (illustrated in the images right).

The images and graphs on the left show how the brain responded to different stimuli Those with low anxiety levels had more activity in the sensory centres.

However the researchers said there was no difference in the level of attention participants gave to danger signals.

Instead,it seems it was only certain threats the anxious people tended to deal with in the motor-specific part of their brains.

The researchers wrote: ‘While high anxious individuals process all threat signals equivalently in face selective regions, they selectively encode threat signals that are relevant to them in motor specific systems, and this encoding reflects their behavioral sensitivity to threatsignaling emotions.’

Source: Dailymail.co.uk

PEOPLES PEOPLES DAILY DAILY

Sports

WEDNESday, 27, 2016 wednesday, april january 27, 2016

NPFL players in action

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delegation of the Spanish League (La Liga) Board yesterday in bilateral meeting with the League Management Company (LMC) concluded discussions on collaboration between the two leagues.

While sealing the partnership between the NPFL and La Liga yesterday in Abuja, the LMC Chairman, Shehu Dikko said the partnership would create opportunity for stakeholders to interact with the delegations.

Dikko and Hon. Nduka Irabor, the Chief Executive Officer were in Madrid, Spain on February 29 to March 1 for follow-up talks with the La Liga initiated when both Leagues met at the Forum of World Leagues in Germany.

The delegation of Spanish Premier League board, the La Liga led by its President, Javier Tesba arrived Nigeria to a warm welcome by representatives of the Nigerian and Spanish governments.

Tesba and his team were led by the top hierarchy of Nigeria’s football governing body including President Amaju Pinnick and LMC Chairman, Mallam Shehu Dikko to the office of Nigeria’s Youth and Sports Minister, Barrister Solomon Dalung and later to the Residence of the Ambassador of Spain to Nigeria, Alfonso Barnuevo Sebastián de Erice.

Dalung in his welcome remarks reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigerian government towards making Nigeria investment friendly by providing the enabling environment for such partnership between the LMC and the La Liga to succeed.

Barrister Dalung commended the LMC for keying into the policy thrust of government for the development of the elite league which provides

jobs for thousands of youths through the 20 clubs and stimulating business activities within the areas matches are played.

“The league in Nigeria is indeed a major tool for social cohesion. Government is committed to putting in place, enabling administrative and legal frameworks for international business partnerships”.

According to the Minister, government will work with and support the managers of football in the country for meaningful projects like the international collaboration with Spain.

“It is of significance that the NPFL and La Liga are entering into an understanding that will improve the business aspects of the league in Nigeria.

Such areas will boost the earnings of football which will in turn impact positively on the welfare of the players while creating new frontiers for business” Dalung said.

Ambassador Barnuevo while receiving the delegation of LMC and La Liga noted that the partnership will strengthen the already strong cultural and trade ties between his country and Nigeria, stating that “at the moment, Spain is the third biggest buyer of Nigeria’s crude oil”.

On the occasion, the Chairman LMC, Shehu Dikko said discussions that led to the partnership that will be signed on Tuesday was initiated at that inaugural World Leagues Forum meeting in London in 2015.

“Our objective is to be able to move with the times. We need to get our league to conform to international standards and best practices. La Liga is one of the best leagues in the world. They have some of the richest clubs in the world and they have a system which is very attractive to us. The structure and management of their clubs is fantastic as

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sports@peoplesdailyng.com, sports@peoplesdailyng.com,SMSSMS-08142929046 08142929046

LMC, La Liga seal partnership deal in Abuja

By Albert Akota

Page

well as the way the government and the clubs relate.

They also have legislation by the government to ensure that the league is developed. We need to learn how they’re doing”, Dikko said.

Tebas, the La Liga President expressed delight at the prospects of sharing experiences with the NPFL, noting that while they will be providing technical assistance to the LMC in the administration of the league, they also will in turn learn something from Nigeria.

“We are here not only to teach but to share experience and we are sure we can also learn from the Nigerian Professional Football League.

This exchange of experience will help us to grow and we’ll ratify this in Nigeria during this visit with a Memorandum of Understanding. Football is not only a commercial issue but also an example of values especially for youths in any country and the La Liga will like to help develop these values for the Nigerian youths. We want to use the names of our stars to transmit the values of the sport. We will also offer our expertise not only to football but to the Nigerian government” Tebas assured.

Amaju Melvin Pinnick, President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) was at the head of the Nigerian team during the visit to the Minister alongside the LMC Chief Executive Officer, Hon. Nduka Irabor, NFF Executive Board member, Alhaji Ibrahim Gusau and Chairman of Club Owners and Managers of the NPFL, Barrister Isaac Danladi.

Accompanying the La Liga President were Melcior Soler, the Director of Audiovisual Affairs, Fernando Sanz, International Projects Director and Antonio Baradas, Manager, African Affairs.

Aminu in top form against LA Clippers >>Pg 42

Enyeama rated Europe’s 6th best goalkeeper

>>Pg 43

PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESday, april 27, 2016

Page 42

Sport

Rivers Angels want NFF to re-structure women league

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eam manager of Nigeria Women Football League champions, Rivers Angels, Mrs Matilda Oyiloha has described the Annual General Congress of the NWFL held last Friday as a congress marred with too many irregularities.

The Congress had on Friday smuggled in four relegated teams, namely; FC Robo, Martins White Doves, Pelican Stars and Taraba Queens back to the NWFL for this season’s campaign which is expected to kick-off on the 21st of May. Matilda who was present at the congress revealed how these clubs were promoted back to the women premier league

“The first mistake was made when Pelican Stars was brought back into the league after the rules had it that teams that fail to honor up to 3 league games will be automatically relegated” “Pelican failed to honor more than 3 games last season and they still went ahead to bring them including Taraba Queens that had similar case with them” “When we started the congress proper, a projector was set and Fourteen teams were on the list for draws to be conducted but the other two teams, Martins White Doves and FC Robo had to demand that they be brought back since there was no relegation”

Aminu in top form against LA Clippers One of the driving forces of Nigeria’s D’Tigers, Al-Farouq Aminu, was the man on point for the Trail Blazers against the LA Clippers on Monday night with 30 points.

The Blazers have now tied the NBA Playoff series at 2-2 by winning 98-84. Aminu also added 10 rebounds to his all-round court display.

Blazers manager, Terry Scotts, said in the post-game interview that he “loves the energy” with which his team played and they have to take that attitude to Los Angeles for Game 5 of the series.

Scotts added that Aminu was a key factor in the win as he was able to shoot the ball better than he had done in the previous three playoff games.

“You know it was just a matter of time. Obviously, he has struggled shooting the ball in the last three games but that didn’t take away from what he was giving us defensively.

“But it was good to see him break out. Everybody has been encouraging him and he is put in the time and like I said, I knew it was just a matter of time.

“I have a routine and you have to keep on trusting it,” Aminu told reporters at the post-game conference.

“Some of the greatest shooters have gone through slumps but I always did what I have been doing all season and believed in what I was doing.”

The Blazers will be more confident on their trip to Los Angeles for Game 5 as it was revealed after the game that Chris Paul had broken a bone in his right hand and may not be returning for the series.

Paul scored the first 12 points for the Clippers team on Monday and they are definitely a lesser team without him as he is their conductor-in-chief. Blake Griffin could also be absent for Game 5 with a quad injury.

“Before we knew it, everyone was asked to add both teams” Matilda narrated.

Following the scenario that led to the relegation of Pelican Stars and Taraba Queens, Matilda questioned the possibility of these teams executing their games this season “What are we even crying for when we keep doing the wrong thing? Three seasons now, no relegation; what is the point shouting the league is dying? What are we showcasing to the world? How can sponsors be attracted to the league? And what is the guaranty that these teams can even register let alone executing the

league? A disappointed team manager asked.

She however called on the Nigeria Football Federation to come and salvage the Women Football League.

“NFF please save Nigeria football. Give us an independent body, when you go out there, there’re quality consultants and good companies that can come to the aid of women football” “Even if is for one season or two, once the league has been stabilized, you can now come back to say come and continue” We want them to come in and re-brand our league” she said.

Pinnick, Oneya appear before Galadima committee

Solomon Dalung and Ibrahim Galadima

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ormer Chairman of Nigeria Football Association (NFA), Brigadier General Dominic Oneya (rtd) and the President of the sacked Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Pinnick Amaju, were among the first set of guests of the Ibrahim Galadima-led ministerial reconciliation committee which commenced its sitting yesterday in Abuja.

Former Head of Media and TV analyst, Austin Mgbolu also appeared with other guests including the chairman of the NFF technical committee under Pinnick, Barrister Chris Green and the immediate past general secretary, Mohammed Sanusi.

The committee was recently set up by the Minister of Youth and Sports, Solomon Dalung to reconcile the warring factions of the NFF. The committee, which has one month to submit its report has the mandate to seek measures that would lead to a reconciliation of the two factions and aggrieved stakeholders in Nigerian football.

Factional president, Ambassador Chris Giwa and his folks have been invited to appear before the committee on Wednesday, even as the faction has distanced itself

from the committee.

The group in a statement issued by its chairman of chairmen, Effiong Johnson, insisted that the committee was lacking in good faith and is calculated to hoodwink Nigerians.

He noted that the minister has no moral right to constitute the committee, since he is also involved in the matter.

“The minister has thus lost the moral podium to midwife any settlement of the dispute. Secondly, the composition of the membership of the so called reconciliation committee leaves no one in doubt that it was constituted only for a hatchet job for the Amaju Pinnick group.

“Virtually all members of the committee are associates of the Amaju Pinnick group. For instance, Musa Amadu is not only a co-defendant with the minister in the case but is also the chairman of the Organising & Disciplinary Committee of the Amaju Pinnick group.

May we put it on record that the board of the NFF has no confidence in that committee and disassociates itself from its activities,” Effiong noted in the statement.

Dalung lauds NCF over India partnership

By Albert Akota

M

Al-Farouq Aminu

inister of Youth and Sports, Barrister Solomon Dalung has commended the Nigeria Cricket Federation for its partnership initiative with the Chennai Cricket Council of India, as a result of which an experienced coach has been dispatched to its Nigerian counterpart to conduct coaching courses at no cost to the country in order to help develop the game in Nigeria.

Barrister Dalung gave this commendation while receiving a delegation of the Nigerian Cricket Federation - NCF led by its President, Engr. Emeka Onyeama, in Abuja yesterday who came to brief the Minister on efforts being made by the NCF to improve the game of

Cricket in Nigeria and introduce Mr. Shriramwho is in Nigeria as part of technical partnership with the Chennai Cricket Federation.

The Minister who acknowledged with admiration the progress which India is making through cricket and the glory that the accomplishment has brought to the country described the partnership arrangement as laudable and a right step in the right direction. “I think the Nigeria Cricket Federation has taken the right step in exploring our policy of maximizing partnership in order to drive sports to the next level” Dalung therefore commended the initiative to other Federations in the country saying the partnership is in line with Federal Government objective of developing sports as a vehicle for job creation, revenue

generation and opportunity to enable our youth realise their creative potential through sports.

Earlier on, the President of NCF while introducing Mr Shriramto the Minister explained that the partnership is meant to develop the game of Cricket in Nigeria by sharing from the experience of India which has turned cricket to a mass mobilisation and money spinning game that has also brought fame and glory.

The NCF President also explained that Mr Shriramwas released at no cost to Nigeria to the NCF by the Chennai Cricket Association to assist Nigeria cricket bring up players for the World Cricket League and also assured that his Federation is desirous to make cricket a foremost top sport in Nigeria.

PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESday, april 27, 2016

Page 43

Sport

Enyeama rated Europe’s 6th best goalkeeper

F

ormer Super Eagles captain and Lille OSC goalkeeper, Vincent Enyeama, has been rated the sixth best goalkeeper in Europe for the 2015/16 season by the Swiss-based CIES Football Observatory.

The former Super Eagles goalkeeper is the only African on the top 10 list, making him the best on the continent.

He was however behind the likes of Manuel Neuer (Bayern Munich), Jan Oblak (Atletico Madrid), Gianluigi Buffon (Juventus), Kevin Trapp (PSG), and Claudio Bravo (Barcelona).

Enyeama was rated higher than Tottenham’s Hugo Lloris, Alphonse Areola of Villareal, Keylor Navas of Real Madrid and Pepe Reina of Napoli, who all made the list of top 10 shot stoppers across Europe’s top Leagues.

The 33-year-old also received his nomination trophy for the Ligue 1 Team of the Year Award.

In France, the former Super Eagles

Enyeama

Boateng in Bayern Munich squad for Atletico clash today

J

erome Boateng has been included in the Bayern Munich squad for today’s Champions League semi-final with Atletico Madrid after a three-month spell on the sidelines due to injury.

The Germany international has not featured for the Bundesliga champions since picking up a groin injury in their 2-1 win over Hamburg back in January and recently stressed that he did not want to take any unnecessary risks.

Boateng opted to sit out the 2-0 league win over Hertha Berlin at the weekend, despite having resumed squad training already. He is now

finally ready to make his comeback in Wednesday night’s crucial European clash.

Bayern will still be without long-term injury concern Holger Badstuber at the Vicente Calderon, while winger Arjen Robben remains unavailable as he continues to work on his recovery.

Pep Guardiola’s side will be looking to take an important step towards the Champions League final with a positive first leg result in Madrid. Bayern have crashed out against Spanish opposition at the penultimate hurdle in the past two seasons, and will be desperate to put that right this year.

star will contend with Steve Mandanda (Olympique Marseille), Salvatore Sirigu (Paris Saint Germain) and Stephane Ruffier (Saint-Ettiene) for the Ligue 1 golden glove.

However, the Nigerian is a big favourite for the award as he has 21 clean sheets this season from 35 matches – a feat he capped with the best player award in Ligue 1 for the months of October and November.

“From the depth of my heart, I want to say a very big thank you to God for this season,” Enyeama wrote on his official Instagram page.

“My wife, kids, brothers, sister (family).

A big thank you to all my co equippers, coaches, staff medical and equipment managers. The president, directors, coordinators, everyone that worked round the clock to make me become a better player and have a successful season, the amazing supporters/fans.

The Ligue 1 team of the year nomination is Enyeama’s second in three seasons.

Atletico Madrid get chance for Bayern revenge

B

ayern Munich destroyed Atletico Madrid’s dreams of winning the European Cup in 1974 and is out to wreck their hopes of reaching a second Champions League final in three years when they visit the Spanish capital for the semifinal first leg.

In the final in Heysel 42 years ago, an equaliser from defender Hans-Georg Schwarzenbeck in the final minute of extra time cancelled out Luis Aragones’ opening goal and forced a replay, in which Bayern ran out 4-0 winners.

That outcome led to contrasting fortunes for both clubs Bayern went on to win three consecutive European Cups and are now bidding for their sixth triumph in manager Pep Guardiola’s last season in charge before taking over at Manchester City.

Atletico are still haunted by the memory of Schwarzenbeck’s goal, which prompted the nickname “el pupas” (the cursed ones).

History repeated itself 40 years later when Atletico led Real Madrid 1-0 in the Champions League final and Sergio Ramos headed in a 93rd-minute equaliser to force extra time before going on to thrash the Rojiblancos 4-1.

Four decades after Schwarzenbeck robbed them of glory, Atletico are still chasing

their first European Cup, yet are emboldened in their bid to go all the way this year after knocking out holders and favourites Barcelona in the quarterfinals.

They beat Malaga 1-0 on Saturday thanks to substitute Angel Correa’s second-half strike to stay level on points with Barcelona, who top La Liga due to their superior head-to-head record.

Bayern maintained their seven-point lead at the top of the Bundesliga by winning 2-0 at Hertha Berlin with secondhalf goals from Arturo Vidal and Douglas Costa. A victory at home to Borussia Monchengladbach next week will see Bayern clinch a third successive title under Guardiola.

Bayern have also reached the German Cup final yet many believe the former Barcelona coach will have under-achieved at the club should he fail to win the Champions League.

Atletico are the third Spanish team Bayern have met in as many years in the semifinals, having been knocked out by Real Madrid in 2014 and Barcelona last year.

Atletico are without influential centre back Diego Godin due to a hamstring injury, while Bayern will be missing forward Arjen Robben and defender Jerome Boateng.

Diego Simeone

Manchester United building a fantastic team —Herrera

Boateng

Manchester United is building a formidable team capitalising on the emergence of several talented youngsters, midfielder Ander Herrera has said.

Louis van Gaal’s men have won 10 of their last 15 games in all competitions, clawing back into the race for a Champions League spot with Anthony Martial and Marcus Rashford showing plenty of promise.

“I think in the last two or three months we have had the feeling that we are cooking a fantastic team.

Young players - a fantastic mix between them and the experienced players,” Herrera told British media.

“They have the pace. They have the imagination, not only Anthony and Marcus, but also Jesse (Lingard) and Memphis (Depay).

“They have the imagination to

make a fantastic team but I don’t want to look so far ahead. Now we have a fantastic team, a fantastic chance to win a title and we have the chance to beat Leicester at home because we are in a good moment and we are fighting for the top four.”

United, currently fifth in the league, host leaders Leicester City, who need a win to clinch their first English league title on Sunday.

PAGE 44

PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESday, april 27, 2016

PUBLIC NOTICE Kingdom Citizens Centre For Transformational Leadership

The general public is hereby notified that the above named has applied to Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under the Companies and Allied Matters Act No.1 of 1990 Part C. THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Michael Adigbo Oglegba- Chairman.

2. Oladotun Akintunde Reju- CRP. 3. Michael Okoro Ukiwe-Otisi.

4. Olusegun Peter Gbolagun.

5. Olushile Odumosu Oludare.

6. Olufemi Adebola Bamgboye- Secretary THE AIM AND OBJECTIVE: 1. Develop leaders through strategic training to transform the society.

2. To engage in city transformation using every form of collaboration with groups and institutions..

Any objection should be forwarded to the Registrar-General, Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420 Tigris Crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama P.M.B 198 Garki, Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

Aqua Pro Life Foundation

Gospel Ambassadors International Worship Centre

The general public is hereby notified that the above named has applied to Corporate Affairs Commission for change of trustee under the Companies and Allied Matters Act No.1 of 1990 Part C. old TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Peter Okwuchukwu Elofusim - chairman - Removed.

2. Lucy Onoriode Elofusim - vice chairman.

3. Nanfe Idoko - secretary Newly appointed 1. 1. Godfrey Irebhude.

Aims and objectives remain the same: Any objection should be forwarded to the RegistrarGeneral, Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420 Tigris Crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama P.M.B 198 Garki, Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

SIGNED: secretary

SIGNED: secretary

PUBLIC NOTICE Community outreach mission international

The general public is hereby notified that the above named has applied to Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under the Companies and Allied Matters Act No.1 of 1990 Part C. THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Pastor Leonard amechi 2 oladeinde olaleye 3 evang edith chioma amaechi 4 Theresa obogo anagwa 5 olubunmi adewusi THE AIM AND OBJECTIVE: 1 developing a relevant 21st century church with a difference a people oriented, Bible based community modelling jesus Christ 2 proclaiming God's word , demonstrating God's power and empowering God's people.

Any objection should be forwarded to the Registrar-General, Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420 Tigris Crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama P.M.B 198 Garki, Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

SIGNED: secretary

PUBLIC NOTICE

The general public is hereby notified that the above named has applied to Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under the Companies and Allied Matters Act No.1 of 1990 Part C. THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Pastor Gabriel Ejowoh.

2. Esther Ikhazuagbe.

3. David Uwakwe.

4. Levi Special THE AIM AND OBJECTIVE: 1. To preach the gospel of Jesus christ.

Any objection should be forwarded to the Registrar-General, Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420 Tigris Crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama P.M.B 198 Garki, Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

SIGNED: secretary

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Public Interest Litigation Initiative

DEVINE PEARL FOUNDATION

The general public is hereby notified that the above named has applied to Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under the Companies and Allied Matters Act No.1 of 1990 Part C.

The general public is hereby notified that the above named has applied to Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under the Companies and Allied Matters Act No.1 of 1990 Part C.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1.Sijuade Kayode, 2. Prof. Adesoji Adesugba 3. Olatunji Salawu

THE TRUSTEES ARE: WO LUCKY TAGBAJUMI, (2) CANDIDUS MADUKAEJIAKA MEKOWULU (3) LAWRETTA O. ONWAEZE (4) IFEYINWA OKOLO & ADAEZE AJAH.

THE AIM AND OBJECTIVE: 1.To provide legal services to the public 2. To assist the less privilege get access to justice.

3. To defend the weak in the Society. Signed by Prof. Adesoji Adesugba.

THE AIM AND OBJECTIVE: TO EMPOWER, CARE AND SUPPORT PEOPLE LIVING WITH HIV, TO PROMOTE OVERALL INTEREST AND RIGHTS OF PEOPLE LIVING WITH HIV & AIDS.

Any objection should be forwarded to the Registrar-General, Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420 Tigris Crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama P.M.B 198 Garki, Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

Any objection should be forwarded to the Registrar-General, Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420 Tigris Crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama P.M.B 198 Garki, Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

SIGNED: secretary

SIGNED: secretary

PUBLIC NOTICE

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THE PELLUCID MIND YOUTHS ORGANISATION

ADULLAM PRAISE EMBASSY

DIANA GUYIT GREEN FOUNDATION

THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY INFORM THAT THE ABOVE NAMED HAS APPLIED TO CAC FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART ‘C’ OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT, DEGREE NO.1 OF 1990.

THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY INFORM THAT THE ABOVE NAMED HAS APPLIED TO CAC FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART ‘C’ OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT, DEGREE NO.1 OF 1990.

THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY INFORM THAT THE ABOVE NAMED FOUNDATION HAS APPLIED TO CAC FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART ‘C’ OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT, DEGREE NO.1 OF 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE : 1. ORJI VALENTINE UGOCHUKWU -CHAIRMAN 2. NNAMANI PETER CHINEDU- MEMBER 3. UBAOJI KINGSLEY IKECHUKWU -SECRETARY 4. AKUNNA SOLOMON CHINEDU -MEMBER 5. IBEDILO ELIAS UZOCHUKWU -MEMBERS 6. NWOBODO VALENTINE OSITA

THE TRUSTEES ARE : 1. Oyewole Ayo John.

2. Oyewole Deborah Uloaku.

3. Granvile Mcpherson.

4. Joy Okereke Chinnenyenwa.

5. Olumide Obatunsi.

THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE : 1. To showcases God on Earth and reign with him in eternity.

2. To build a kingdom chambers where Champions will be raised.

3. To reach out to the ghetto at all cost, giving hope to the lonely in a crowded world.

THE TRUSTEES ARE : 1.Diana Gbefwi,- Chairlady 2.Gamdyen Guyit, -board MEMBER 3. Fidel seli Alisah, - secretary 4. keturah Gbefwi, board member 5. Naomi Baba Gbefwi -Treasurer 6.Christiana Dogo Agyenol THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE : (1) To cater for the less privileged in rural communities in nigeria.

(2) To engage in grassroots developlent,educational counselling/seminars.

ANY OBJECTION TO THE REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL, CAC, PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION.

ANY OBJECTION TO THE REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL, CAC, PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION.

SIGNED : SECRETARY

signed:Barr.Okwudili Abanum

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1. TO CARE AND HELP ITS MEMBERS. 2. TO CARE FOR THE WELFARE OF ITS MEMBERS. ANY OBJECTION TO THE REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL, CAC, PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED : SECRETARY

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ALLI FOUNDATION

THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY INFORM THAT THE ABOVE NAMED FOUNDATION HAS APPLIED TO CAC FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART ‘C’ OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT, DEGREE NO.1 OF 1990.

THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY INFORM THAT THE ABOVE NAMED FOUNDATION HAS APPLIED TO CAC FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART ‘C’ OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT, DEGREE NO.1 OF 1990.

AIR FORCE COMPREHENSIVE SCHOOL UYO ALUMNI ASSOCIATION

THE TRUSTEES ARE : 1. DAMILOLA SAMIAT ADENIYI - CHAIRMAN 2. RACHAEL SUMBO ADENIYI 3.BOLA OWOYEMI SALAUDEEN THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE : 1.TO CATER FOR THE WELFARE OF THE LESS PRIVILEGE IN THE SOCIETY. 2. TO PROMOTE AIDS AND SUPPORT THE PROVISION OF HEALTH CARE TO MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC AND PROVIDE FACILITATES ASSOCIATED WITH THE PROVISION OF HEALTHCARE SERVICES. ANY OBJECTION TO THE REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL, CAC, PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED : HAVILLAH & HILLS LP SECRETARY

THE TRUSTEES ARE : 1. KEHINDE ALLI - PRESIDENT 2.MARIAN ALLI - SECRETARY THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE : 1.TO PROMOTE EDUCATIONAL EXCELLENCE AMONG YOUTHS. 2.TO ENCOURAGE AND DEVELOP LEADERSHIP TALENT IN YOUTHS. ANY OBJECTION TO THE REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL, CAC, PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED : O. J. OLASAIYE & CO PLOT 2 ALGERIA STREET, WUSE 2, ABUJA. 08038019823

THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT THE ABOVE NAMED BODY HAS APPLIED TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, ABUJA FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART “C” OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT, NO. 1 OF 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. PHILIP KAITE - CHAIRMAN 2. ROSEMARY MKPENIE 3.DR JOSEPH ESSIEN 4.UGOCHI OBIDIEGWU 5.EDIKAN WESLEY 6.BARRISTER ENWONGO CLEOPAS 7.UMO DUKE 8.CHIKA ACHALU 9.EMMANUEL EBUK 10.ABASIODIONG EKPEYONG AIMS AND OBJECTIVES To create a platform that promoters networking among members and enables us give back to our Alma mata.

ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420 TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, MAITAMA, P.M.B 198, GARKI ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED : Barr. Ibere Nkop 07034368291

PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESday, april 27, 2016

PUBLIC NOTICE DENNIS MEMORIAL GRAMMAR SCHOOL CLASS 93 ASSOCIATION

THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY INFORM THAT THE ABOVE NAMED ASSOCIATION HAS APPLIED TO CAC FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART ‘C’ OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT, DEGREE NO.1 OF 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE : 1. PASTOR ONOCHIE FAVOUR EMEKEKWUE - CHAIRMAN 2. UGOCHUKWU IGBOKWE 3.BENJAMIN AJARAOGU - SECRETARY 4.EBELE JOHN NWADIOGBU 5.ARINZE MICHAEL ODIARI THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE : 1.TO FOSTER UNITY AMONG MEMBERS. ANY OBJECTION TO THE REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL, CAC, PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED : SECRETARY

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MICROCIMA CHANGE INITIATIVE FOR ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY INFORM THAT THE ABOVE NAMED FOUNDATION HAS APPLIED TO CAC FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART ‘C’ OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT, DEGREE NO.1 OF 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE : 1. DR INAH OKON - (CHAIRMAN BOARD OF TRUSTEES ) 2.MRS. OBAI - JUSTINA INAH - SECRETARY 3.MR. SAMPSON EDEL DAVID THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE : 1.TO PROMOTE SUSTAINABLE URBAN PLANNING THROUGH THE USE OF NON-MOTORIZED TRANSPORT SYSTEM (WALKING AND CYCLING) IN CITIES. a.TO PROMOTE AWARENESS OF THE REALITY OF CLIMATE CHANGE AND CONSEQUENT ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS. b. TO ACT AND LEAD IN THE CAMPAIGN FOR INCREASE IN CYCLING AND WALKING MODAL SHARE OF URBAN TRANSPORTATION IN NIGERIAN CITIES AND OTHER DEVELOPING COUNTRIES. c.TO ORGANIZE SEMINARS AND OTHER INFORMATION DISEMINATION SOURCES THAT IS TARGETED AT YOUTHS ON THE NEED TO ADAPT CYCLING AND NON-MOTORIZED TRANSPORT OPHON; AND TO PROMOTE THE DEVELOPMENT OF LEGISLATURE THAT ENHANCES THE USE OF NONMOTORIZED TRANSPORT IN CITY PLANNING. ANY OBJECTION TO THE REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL, CAC, PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED : BARR. CHRISTIANA. C. UMOH 08037025958

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THE TRUSTEES ARE : 1. ONYEABOR JOSEPH 2.YUSUF ABIODUN IBRAHIM 3.OMARE - OGAH JERO ANTHONY 4.CHUKWU HENRY IFEANYI 5.AMINA ADAMU BIU THE AIM AND OBJECTIVE 1. TO HELP THE LESS PRIVILEGED IN THE SOCIETY. ANY OBJECTION TO THE REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL, CAC, PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED : OBINNA ONU ESQ (SOLICITOR) 08061362442

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PUBLIC NOTICE THE WOMEN INTERCESSORY NETWORK FOR PEACE INITIATIVE

GIRLS OF ALL AGES FOUNDATION

ENTHRONEMENT ASSEMBLY

THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY INFORM THAT THE ABOVE NAMED FOUNDATION HAS APPLIED TO CAC FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART ‘C’ OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT, DEGREE NO.1 OF 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE : 1. ROLI UKWU - CHAIRMAN 2. CHIDI UKWU 3. OYOWOLI J. O. SOLUADE - SECRETARY 4. STELLA OMABUWA 5. AYOOLA OTUYALO 6.DAYO BENJAMINS-LANIYI THE AIM AND OBJECTIVE: 1.TO BUILD SELF ESTEEM THROUGH SKILL AND KNOWLEDGE EMPOWERMENT. 2.TO SUPPORT GIRLS EDUCATION.

THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY INFORM THAT THE ABOVE NAMED HAS APPLIED TO CAC FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART ‘C’ OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT, DEGREE NO.1 OF 1990.

THE AIM AND OBJECTIVE 1.TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF JESUS CHRIST.

THE TRUSTEES ARE : 1. MRS VERONICA OMOWUMI POPOOLA - PRESIDENT 2.MRS FLORENCE AJIMOBI 3.MRS ROSE OYEDELE - SECRETARY 4. MRS TOYIN MORINHO 5.MRS PATIENCE OYOR THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE : 1.TO GATHER AND PROVIDE FOR THE NEEDS OF WOMEN PHYSICALLY AND SPIRITUALLY TO MAKE THE WORLD A BETTER PLACE.

ANY OBJECTION TO THE REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL, CAC, PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION.

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ANY OBJECTION TO THE REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL, CAC, PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION.

SIGNED: ODEMI. J. OMABUWA 08144041558

SIGNED : SECRETARY

SIGNED : BARR ADEBOWALE YEYETUNDE +2348081604383

THE TRUSTEES ARE : 1. APOSTLE ALOMA ONYERI 2.MR. FEMI FADAHUNSI 3.DR. SAM OYEMADE 4.BRO ANETOR ILENIKHENA 5.BARR. AYODELE OSO 6.BRO CHUKWUEMEKA NWOYE

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WINDING UP

PARAGON WORLD EMPOWERMENT FOUNDATION

CHARIOTS OF FIRE EVANGELICAL MINISTRY

THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY INFORM THAT THE ABOVE NAMED FOUNDATION HAS APPLIED TO CAC FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART ‘C’ OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT, DEGREE NO.1 OF 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE : 1. LADY PRINCESS ROSELINE NJIDEKA NWANESI 2.UGOCHUKWU CHRISTIAN NNADOZIE 3.SIR JOHN IFEANYI NWANESI 4.PETER OKECHUKWU EDOM 5.REV. FR. DR. BASIL CHUKWUMA ONYIA THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE : 1.TO GIVE CHARITABLE ASSISTANCE TO MOTHERLESS BABIES /ORPHANAGE HOMES AND DESTITUTE CHILDREN. 2. EMPOWERMENT OF POOR WIDOWS THROUGH FINANCIAL SUPPORT, ACCOMODATION AND ENGAGING THEM IN TO DIFFERENT TRADES AND BUSINESSES.

THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY INFORM THAT THE ABOVE NAMED MINISTRY HAS APPLIED TO CAC FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART ‘C’ OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT, DEGREE NO.1 OF 1990.

FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT 1990 ANTILIA GLOBEX LTD RC 1159003 SPECIAL RESOLUTION

ANY OBJECTION TO THE REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL, CAC, PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED : KASIEMOBI - 08065613658

loss of document This is to inform the general public of the loss of Original Right of Occupancy (R of O) with plot No.1053. And File No.EK42421. Of about 600sqm located at Dawaki extension (Re-Location) Layout.

Belonging to Olabisi Kolawale. Got missing. All efforts made to trace it proved abortive. If found, please return to AGIS or the nearest police station.

General public take note.

EJEH

I, FORMERLY KNOWN AS ANTHONY VICTORIA. NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AS EJEH VICTORIA. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. ALL AUTHORITIES CONCERNED AND GENERAL PUBLIC PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

THE TRUSTEES ARE : 1. REV. KING MOSES OMAFUME - CHAIRMAN 2. MRS. AINA PATRICIA ITOHAN - SECRETARY 3.ENGR. ADENIJI EZEKIEL OLAJIDE 4.PHARM. MRS ADENIJI VICTORIA CHIKODI 5.MRS. CHICHI KING THE AIM AND OBJECTIVE 1.TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST. ANY OBJECTION TO THE REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL, CAC, PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED : SECRETARY

ODEAHAN

I, FORMERLY KNOWN AS BARR FEMI ODEAHAN. NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN WITH MY FULL NAMES AS ODEAHAN OLUFEMI MOSES. FEDERAL CAPITAL TERRITORY, JUDICIARY, ALL AUTHORITIES CONCERNED AND GENERAL PUBLIC PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

KELECHI

I, FORMERLY KNOWN AS KELECHI NWAOBIA to KELECHI GLADYS AHAIWE, FROM KELECHI GLADYS AHAIWE .

NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AS KELECHI GIFT JOSEPH. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. ALL AUTHORITIES CONCERNED AND GENERAL PUBLIC PLEASE TAKE.

Zainab

I formerly known and called Zainab Jumai Momoh henceforth wish to be known and called Zainab Jumai Adamu. all former document remain valid. the general public should please take note.

FOR WINDING UP AND APPOINTMENT OF LIQUIDATOR At the extra-ordinary general meeting of the above named company held on 8th march 2016 at 14 Taiwo Koya Str, Ilupeju Lagos State the following resolutions were duly passed: 1. THAT ANTILIA GLOBEX LTD BE AND IS HEREBY VOLUNTARILY Wound up.

2. That Barr. Ikenna Benedict Akubue of IKENNA BENEDICT AKUBUE & CO Of Suite302 Copper House Wuse Zone 5,Abuja be and is hereby appointed as Liquidator for ANTILIA GLOBEX LTD for the purpose of winding up the affairs of the company.

3. That the Corporate Affairs Commission be informed accordingly.

Dated this 10th of march 2016 Signed: DIPALI SHANGHVI Director

DEEPAK SHANGHVI Director

WINDING UP FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT 1990 ADVANT GLOBEX NIGERIA LIMITED RC 1090489 SPECIAL RESOLUTION

FOR WINDING UP AND APPOINTMENT OF LIQUIDATOR At the extra-ordinary general meeting of the above named company held on 10th march 2016 at 2 Henry Stephen Compound Ilupeju byepass, Ilupeju Lagos State the following resolutions were duly passed: 1. THAT ADVANT GLOBEX NIGERIA LIMITED BE AND IS HEREBY VOLUNTARILY Wound up.

2. That Barr. Ikenna Benedict Akubue of IKENNA BENEDICT AKUBUE & CO Of Suite302 Copper House Wuse Zone 5,Abuja be and is hereby appointed as Liquidator for ADVANT GLOBEX NIGERIA LIMITED for the purpose of winding up the affairs of the company.

3.

That the Corporate Affairs Commission be informed accordingly.

Dated this 10th of march 2016 KUNAL SHANGVI Director

Signed

RAJEER YADAV Director

PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESday, april 27, 2016

PAGE 46

PUBLIC NOTICE anointing power of the holy ghost evangelical ministry The General Public is hereby notified that the above named has applied for registration with the Corporate Affairs Commission under part ‘C’ of the Companies and Allied Matters Act 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE:1. kate ngozi onuorah 2. vivian chinwe mmadubuike 3. emmanuel osita onuorah AIMS AND OBJECTIVES to preach the gospel

PUBLIC NOTICE IDE DOMINIC ODENIGBO FOUNDATION The general public is hereby notified that the above named Foundation has applied to Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under the Companies and Allied Matters Act No.1 of 1990 Part C. THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. IYOM MRS VERONICA NWANYIMGBO ODENIGBO 2. ARC. DOMINIC CHINYELU ODENIGBO 3. DR. CHARLES UZOMA ODENIGBO THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE: 1. TO PROMOTE AND ENCOURAGE EDUCATIONAL ACTIVITIES / ACHIEVEMENT IN UMUDIOKA.

Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the Registrar General, Corporate Affairs Commission, (CAC), Abuja within 28 days of this Publication.

Any objection should be forwarded to the RegistrarGeneral, Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420 Tigris Crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama P.M.B 198 Garki, Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

Signed: Secretary

SIGNED: IYOM MRS VERONICA NWANYIMGBO ODENIGBO

PUBLIC NOTICE ASSOCIATION OF REAL ESTATE CONSULTANTS ASABA The general public is hereby notified that the above named Association has applied to Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under the Companies and Allied Matters Act No.1 of 1990 Part C. THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. FELIX CHUKS NWAKOH 2. OBUROTA CHIEDU MICHAEL 3. OHEI IKECHUKWU ANTHONY 4. EBOM CHRIS OSEANUOKWU 5. ONYEUGBO THOMPSON THE AIM AND OBJECTIVE: 1.TO BE COMMITED TO POSITIVE CHANGE EMBRACING ENTERPRISESS AND DEVELOPING NEW IDEAS AND TECNOLOGIES IN REAL ESTATE CONSULTANTS MANAGEMENT AND VALUATION THROUGH STRONG ALLIANCE AND COLLABORATION THAT WILL PROMOTE ECONOMIC EMPOWERMENT AND HIGH INTEGRITY AMONG MEMBERS. Any objection should be forwarded to the Registrar-General, Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420 Tigris Crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama P.M.B 198 Garki, Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

SIGNED: FELIX CHUKS NWAKOH

LEGAL NOTICE

LEGAL NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

IN THE HIGH COURT OF JUSTICE PROBATE DIVISION BIRNIN KEBBI, KEBBI STATE

IN THE HIGH COURT OF JUSTICE PROBATE DIVISION BIRNIN KEBBI, KEBBI STATE

PALMS VILLE ESTATE RESIDENTS ASSOCIATION AJAH LAGOS

Whereas the person whose name is set out in the first column here under died date and place stated in the said column.

Whereas the person whose address had claimed relationship with the said deceased is set in the second column here under has applied to the High Court of Justice for GRANT OF LETTER OF ADMINISTRATION of the personal property.

Notice is hereby given that the said LETTER OF ADMINISTRATION will be granted to such person unless a notice to prohibit the grant there of is filed in the probate Registry High Court of Justice Birnin Kebbi, Within TWENTY ONE DAYS from the date of publication of this notice.

SCHEDULE

Whereas the person whose name is set out in the first column here under died date and place stated in the said column.

Whereas the person whose address had claimed relationship with the said deceased is set in the second column here under has applied to the High Court of Justice for GRANT OF LETTER OF ADMINISTRATION of the personal property.

Notice is hereby given that the said LETTER OF ADMINISTRATION will be granted to such person unless a notice to prohibit the grant there of is filed in the probate Registry High Court of Justice Birnin Kebbi, Within TWENTY ONE DAYS from the date of publication of this notice.

SCHEDULE

The general public is hereby notified that the above named Association has applied to Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under the Companies and Allied Matters Act No.1 of 1990 Part C. THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. MR. ANTHONY CHUKWUDI NDUAGUBA 2. MR. NELSON SANI 3. MR. SAM BEN OHEN 4. MR. BABATUNDE AJISEGIRI 5. MR. SALIFU O. PHILIPS 6. MR. AFOLABI JOEL 7. KAYODE JOHNSON THE AIM AND OBJECTIVE: 1. TO PROMOTE GOODWILL, MUTURAL UNDERSTANDING AND COOPERATION AMONGST MEMBERS OF THE ASSOCIATION. 2. TO CO-OPERATE AND WORK IN HARMONY WITH OTHER NEIGHBORS OF THE ASSOCIATION WHO HAVE SIMILAR AIMS AND OBJECTIVES. Any objection should be forwarded to the Registrar-General, Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420 Tigris Crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama P.M.B 198 Garki, Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

SIGNED: EZIAGU JUDE ABUJA

Name and Address of Deceased MOHAMMED ALIYU NIGERIAN POLICE FORCE SOKOTO COMMAND, SOKOTO STATE.

Applicant Name and Address NAFISA MOHAMMED ABDULMALIK MOHAMMED MABERA AREA, SOKOTO SOUTH

SOKOTO STATE

Who died on the 29th day of September, 2014 Dated at Birnin Kebbi on the 21th day of April, 2016 ABUBAKAR SADIQ BELLO Probate Registrar

PUBLIC NOTICE

Name and Address of Deceased SULEIMAN YAKUBU NIGERIAN POLICE FORCE

MINNA DIVISION, NIGER STATE

Applicant Name and Address ADAMU SULEIMAN FONI UNGUWAR ZURU AREA, ZURU LOCAL GOVT KEBBI STATE

Who died on the 31ST day of January, 2016 Dated at Birnin Kebbi on the 20th day of April, 2016 ABUBAKAR SADIQ BELLO Probate Registrar

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

EASE A BURDEN FOUNDATION

Igbaja People's Forum

Guild Of God's Creed

The general public is hereby notified that the above named foundation has applied to Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under the Companies and Allied Matters Act No.1 of 1990 Part C.

The general public is hereby notified that the above named has applied to Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under the Companies and Allied Matters Act No.1 of 1990 Part C. THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Adeniyi Aribidesi Wasiu.

2. Sadiq Toyin Fatai.

3. Mohammed Tajudeen Ishola.

4. Dr Doyin Rasaq Ogunleye.

5. Oluwatoyin Tajudeen Alabi.

6. Aroyehun Arinola Falilat.

7. Usman-Dio Kamardeen Tunde.

8. Bello Muritala.

9. Aribidesi Muibat Folashade THE AIM AND OBJECTIVE: To harness all the resources (both human and material) for collective development of the community.

Any objection should be forwarded to the Registrar-General, Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420 Tigris Crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama P.M.B 198 Garki, Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

SIGNED: secretary

The general public is hereby notified that the above named has applied to Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under the Companies and Allied Matters Act No.1 of 1990 Part C.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. TIJJANI MUNAUWAR 2. MOHAMMED ALIYU 3. SANI RABIAT 4. SANI FATIMA ZARAH THE AIM AND OBJECTIVE: 1. PROVIDING WELFARE FOR ORPHANS 2. PROVIDING EDUCATIONAL FACILITIES FOR THE LESS PRIVILEGE 3. PROVIDING SKILL ACQUISITION PROGRAMS FOR THE LESS PRIVILEGE. Any objection should be forwarded to the Registrar-General, Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420 Tigris Crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama P.M.B 198 Garki, Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

SIGNED: secretary

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Abiodun Shola-Bakare.

2. Oluwatoyin Shola-Bakare.

THE AIM AND OBJECTIVE: 1. To preach the total gospel of Jesus christ. 2. To teach, train, prepare believers for the second coming of Jesus christ and to foster peace and unity within the body of christ.

Any objection should be forwarded to the RegistrarGeneral, Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420 Tigris Crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama P.M.B 198 Garki, Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

SIGNED: Asugha Chikodi C. Trisecta L.P. Chikodiasugha@gmail. com. Trisectalp@yahoo.com. 07031833443

PUBLIC NOTICE

PEARL DEW WOMEN FOUNDATION

NGBA NDIAK OBOLO FOUNDATION

GOD’S NEW COVENANT FAITH CHURCH

The general public is hereby notified that the above named has applied to Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under the Companies and Allied Matters Act No.1 of 1990 Part C.

The general public is hereby inform that the above named Foundation has applied to Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under Part ‘C’ of the Companies and Allied Matters Act, Degree No. 1 of 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. UBULOM, ADASI ESAU - CHAIRMAN 2. EKAH, SAMUEL AKPAN - SECRETARY 3. THOMAS, SAMUEL EKPENYONG 4. UKAFIA, SYLVANUS OWEN 5. ILAUMO, BENNETT JOSEPH 6. ETTEH, OKPOLUPM IKPONG 7. MBONG, CHARLES CONSTANCE 8. ADETIBA, MAYEN MODUPEOLA 9. AKWAOWO, SUNDAY PHILIP 10. EKOYORK, DANIEL LOVEDAY AIMS/OBJECTIVES: 1. To foster peace, unity and progress among Obolo people.

Any objection to the registration shouls be forwarded to the Registrar-General, Corporate Affaira Commission, Plot 420 Tigris Crescent, Off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Abuja within 28 days of this Publication.

Signed: DIAMOND AKPANIKA ESQ.

The general public is hereby inform that the above named Church has applied to Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under Part ‘C’ of the Companies and Allied Matters Act, Degree No. 1 of 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Ayodele Olukemi Sade - Chairman, 2. Owoeye Folusho Olayinka - Secretary THE AIM AND OBJECTIVE: 1. To facilitate skill acquisition programs for women.

Any objection should be forwarded to the RegistrarGeneral, Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420 Tigris Crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama P.M.B 198 Garki, Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

SIGNED: secretary

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Rev. Elisha Ukpong Udo - President 2. Pastor (Mrs) Uduak Elisha Ukpong 3. Pastor Imoh Evans Eshiet -Secretary 4. Pastor Eshiet Ben Akpan 5. Pastor Edidiong Abel Udo AIMS/OBJECTIVES: 1. To preach the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Any objection to the registration shouls be forwarded to the Registrar-General, Corporate Affaira Commission, Plot 420 Tigris Crescent, Off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Abuja within 28 days of this Publication.

Signed: Rev. Elisha Ukpong Udo President.

PAGE 47

PEOPLES DAILY, WEDNESday, april 27, 2016

kubra

lawan: I, formerly known as khadija lawan, now wish to be known and called kubra doma, all former documents remain valid, the authorities concerned and the general public to please take note.

mrs maureen

I, formerly known as miss maureen zakaria, now wish to be known and called mrs maureen paul dimka, all former documents remain valid, the authorities concerned and the general public to please take note.

adejuwon

I, formerly known as adejuwon timilehim, now wish to be known and called adejuwon victoria, all former documents remain valid, the authorities concerned and the general public to please take note.

HALIMA

I, FORMERLY KNOWN AS HALIMA YAKUBU MAHMOOD. NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AS HALIMA UMAR. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS SHOULD REMAN VALID. MINISTRY OF EDUCATION BAUCHI STATE AND THE GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD TAKE NOTE.

GARBA

I, FORMERLY KNOWN AS IDRIS A. GARBA. NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AS GARBA SALE AZUMI. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS SHOULD REMAN VALID. ALL AUTHORITIES CONCERNED AND THE GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD TAKE NOTE.

ADAMU

AUDU

I formerly known and called AUDU SUNDAY AGORO henceforth wish to be known and called AUDU SUNDAY OBAKAS. all former document remain valid. the general public should please take note.

BENARD

I formerly known and called UDEOZOR MODOZIE henceforth wish to be known and called BENARD MODOZIE. all former document remain valid AND general public should please take note.

IYAYEH

I formerly known and called NJOKU AMARACHI JOVITA, IYAYEH IYANABO AMARACHI JOVITA henceforth wish to be known and called IYAYEH IYANABO JOVITA. all former document remain valid STANBIC BANK, ACCESS BANK, UNION BANK AND general public should please take note.

EZRA

I, FORMERLY KNOWN AS BABA GARBA. NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AS EZRA HABILA. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS SHOULD REMAINED VALID. AUTHORITIES CONCERNED AND THE GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD TAKE NOTE.

abdullahi

I, FORMERLY KNOWN AS abdullahi abdulkareem oslandez. NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AS abdullahi abdulkareem. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS SHOULD REMAINED VALID. AUTHORITIES CONCERNED AND THE GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD TAKE NOTE.

I, FORMERLY KNOWN AS ADAMU BELLO MALLAM. NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AS ADAMU MALAM BELLO SULAIMAM. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS SHOULD REMAINED VALID. AUTHORITIES CONCERNED AND THE GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD TAKE NOTE.

ADEBAYO

I FORMERLY KNOWN AS ADEBAYO BABATUNDE SAMSON NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS ADEBAYO AYOMIDE EMMANUEL. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC TO TAKE NOTE.

mrs roseline

I FORMERLY KNOWN AS miss roseline abidemi adesola alashi NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS mrs roseline abidemi adesola asonibare. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. E.C.W.A (YORUBA) APO rest.apo f.c.t abuja AND THE GENERAL PUBLIC TO TAKE NOTE.

UMAR

I formerly known and called UMAR AMINU henceforth wish to be known and called UMAR ABUBAKAR. all former document remain valid general public should please take note.

SAHIBU

I formerly known and called ISAH SAHAIBU henceforth wish to be known and called SAHIBU FAJE ISAH. all former document remain valid GT BANK, SKYE BANK AND general public should please take note.

oloruntoba

I, FORMERLY KNOWN AS oloruntoba bunmi ohunene and oloruntoba bunmi titilayo. NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AS oloruntoba olubunmi blessing. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS SHOULD REMAINED VALID. AUTHORITIES CONCERNED AND THE GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD TAKE NOTE.

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PHOTO OF THE DAY

Who wants to play the quiet game? This mom covers her children’s mouths so she can have a moment of silence. Source: Dailymail.com

www.peoplesdailyng.com

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WEDNEsday, april 27, 2016

SPORTS latest

Balogun to face panel over violent conduct

T

he German Football Association (DFB) has announced that Mainz defender Leon Balogun is under investigation for his actions in the 2-1 defeat at Frankfurt.

The Nigeria international is facing charges of violent conduct after television replays showed him catching Frankfurt counterpart Carlos Zambrano in the stomach with a knee in the 89th minute of the Bundesliga clash at the CommerzbankArena.

The incident went unnoticed by the referee at the time which allowed the DFB to take retrospective action, and Balogun now has a case to answer.

The off-season signing from Darmstadt is also on the verge of picking up an automatic one-match suspension for Die Nullfunfer, having received four yellow cards in the Bundesliga this term.

Blatter to testify at Platini’s ban appeal

F

ormer Fifa president Sepp Blatter will testify during Michel Platini’s appeal against his ban from football, following a request from world football’s governing body, a source close to the case said yesterday.

Platini, the suspended head of European football confederation Uefa, will challenge his six-year ban at the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) in Lausanne, Switzerland on Friday.

In December, Fifa’s ethics judges found Platini guilty of ethics violations, conflict of interest and other offences in connection with a 2 million Swiss franc ($2 million, 1.8 million euro) payment he received from Blatter in 2011.

Both men claim the payment was part of a legitimate oral contract for consulting work that Platini did between 1999 and 2002, but Fifa’s in-house court found that explanation unconvincing.

If Platini’s appeal is successful, he could reclaim his Uefa post in time to preside over the tournament.

Sepp Blatter

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QUOTABLE QUOTE Let me correct this deceitful notion and make it clear that senators are not in any way supporting corruption due to their strong backing for Saraki throughout the trial.

— Senate leader; Mohammed Ali Ndume

Saraki: A Storm too Early, too Predictable

F

rom the unset, the All Progressive Congress (APC) led administration managed to secure for itself raging interests, unresolved differences to characterize its marriage consummated based on ‘necessity’ rather than ‘national interest’. It wasn’t a difficult setting to conflagrate soon after the victorious harvest at the polls in 2015.

The most curious and most celebrated is the ruling party fisticuff with leadership of the Senate. Insubordination, ego, vendetta, interests and element of incompatibility have all managed to carve niches in APC to rail it towards the mistake of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), which culminated into a disastrous implosion.

Interesting to note that some people are of the opinion Dr. Bukola Saraki is the target and soon the sward will return to its sheath. It is believed he was selfish, inconsiderate and possibly a loyalist of the PDP when he “kangarooed” himself as senate president, with a deputy from the opposition. Saraki however claim he opposed a planned Muslim/ Muslim ticket etc. It’s a back and forth argument as the widening divides tries desperately to vilify their opponents.

Only time will however reveal how much strategy was lost in managing the situation as scenes unfold from the dramatic personae. The chairman of the ruling party, John Oyegun tactlessly declared that Saraki’s Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT) trial will only “cost the party the senate leadership”. If the senate leadership is not a dreadful loss in a political chess game, then there is a problem with Oyegun’s political gamut.

Leader of the APC, Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu was quoted at mulling idea of “suspending” or “abolishing” the senate. He is trying to kill the fly perching on his privates by deploying rocketpropelled guns. He failed to reason that a tender shove will achieve desired result.

The embattled senate president wants power. He has managed to fulfill his ambition amidst jettisoning other interests of

0806 564 8620 0704 385 9705 0814 292 9046 08074420617

Wednesday Column

By Israel A. Ebije

Senator Bukola Saraki his party. A man who is only interested in power can be used easily as marionette. Such a person however becomes dangerous once allowed to understand that the only one thing he cherishes is about to elude him. His CCT trial is one thing, perception and timing another matter entirely.

It is instructive to educate on the need for the ruling party to understand that the National Assembly (NASS) under the auspices of “Saraki Loyalists” can grind to dust the good intentions of the President Muhammadu Buhari (PMB) led administration with ‘legislative gerrymandering’ to secure their lugubrious pound of flesh.

The NASS is not only expensive to maintain, it also demands extreme tact to manage. Its alright if Nigerians want to “occupy” the NASS. It is however important to understand that they have a thousand silent and very natural ways to slow the PMB administration down.

Gone are the days where former president Olusegun Obasanjo administration infiltrated their ranks with money to sway their focus.

A possible set back in the change administration of PMB is certainly going to rear its ugly head once the ‘normal’ and very regular “Ghana-must-go” from the executive to the legislative

arm ahead of budget presentation or important bills fails to hit private bank accounts.

Nobody should be deceived the fight is limited to Dr. Bukola Saraki alone. He has staunch supporters within and outside the NASS loyal to money to gamble with key sectors of the economy.

Example is the power sector and the fuel miasma as experienced.

With 109 senators split between APC 60 and PDP 49, it is indeed easy to know where the votes will swing once the “aggrieved” Saraki supporters team up with the “bulk” votes of the PDP against interests of the executive arm of government.

Nigerians are tired, Nigerians are expectant, Nigerians cannot suffer any longer while their representatives philander with hard earned taxpayers monies on amusement toys and idle pastime. That’s the reason why those trying to flush Saraki out of the senate presidency should have been more tactful. The odds are against the ruling party, the collateral damage and the laugh is certainly going to be on them.

Except in a very unusual circumstance, no opposition party leading a political nucleus like the senate will add much value to the ruling party at the center – except for its nuisance value. The focus indeed will be to get out the ruling party through every “legislative” encumbrance possible.

The interest of the country will suffer and the change component of the PMB led administration will be stillborn at the end.

The likes of Saraki have history of abandoning ship once the weather affects their cruise. They however leave the ship disabled with important components to support the sailing of another ship carrying gems they can benefit from. He did that once to PDP and would probably do it in APC. I have earlier stated at the beginning of the PMB administration in one of my

publication that once the NASS incline itself fully with the principle and practice of the APC change mantra, only then will the traction for the change vehicle pick up speed. I was however skeptical of the legislative arm on account of how they were elected and on the established orientation among them before 2015.

In 2015, the anger of Nigerians against PDP failed to consider credentials of candidates on the platform of the APC. Sadly the 2011 general election only succeeded in voting in many political jokes. Their clownish and clannish tendencies are on display at the national assembly.

Some cannot speak English, some cannot separate themselves from ethno-religious underpinnings while most are completely clueless except during sharing of monies.

My concern is against the backdrop of suffering Nigerians.

No well meaning Nigerian is expected to be bugged down by political interests from saying the truth. It’s a sad one that Saraki may have hurt the “powers that be” in the ruling party. Taking him out must be strategic, tactful and in phases. He has the propensity to takedown structures. He may not matter much as a political juggernaut, but the task of pulling down an empire sometime can be done by a weakling, who hardly amounts to anything much.

Ebije can be reached via: ebijeo5@gmail.com or @ ebijeisrael

DAN GAYE Niger borrows N400m monthly to pay salaries - Gov Bello

Hope workers won’t borrow to marry?

Published by Peoples Media Limited, 35, Ajose Adeogun Street, 1st Floor Peace Park Plaza, Utako, Abuja. Kano office: Plot 3, Zaria Road, Opposite Kano State House of Assembly. Lagos Office: No.8 Oliyide Street, off Unity Road, Ikeja, Lagos. Tel: +234 814 292 9046. Cell: +234 802 443 2099; 803 7007 759. e-mail: contact@peoplesdailyng.com; pmlnewsdesk@gmail.com ISSN: 2141– 6141