Peoples Daily Newspaper, Monday 7th October, 2013

Vol. 12 No. 6

Monday, October 7, 2013

. . . putting the people first

Thul Hajj 2, 1434 AH

N150

National Confab

Stakeholders doubt Jonathan’s sincerity

l As president inaugurates advisory panel today >> Pg 2

Thousands of people waving at Jigawa state Governor, Alhaji Sule Lamido, and some state government officials after boarding the first plane to take-off from the new Dutse Airport, during a test flight, yesterday in Dutse, Jigawa state.

Resident doctors may suspend strike today

By Aminu Abbas Bamali

T

here are indications that the National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) may have resolved to call off its strike today.

This is following the intervention of the Minister of Labour and Productivity, Chief Emeka Wogu.

The decision to consider the suspension of the strike action

by NARD was reached after a

Taraba ag gov survives car crash >> Pg 3

protracted meeting which lasted for over fourteen hours.

Those at the meeting include: Minister of Health Prof.

Onyebushi Chuckwu, Executive Chairman, National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission,

Chief Richard Ebule, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health, among others.

In a resolution signed at the end of the meeting, it was resolved that the resident doctors would remain on the IPPIS programme

PTDF is broke, says executive secretary >> Pg 5

but the problems identified by members of NARD in the programme should be addressed and resolved.

A high-powered committee to be chaired by the minister of Contd. on Page 2

Shiites, Sunnis clash in Sokoto >> Pg 3

PAGE 2

PEOPLES DAILY, MONDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2013

News CONTENTS News 2-10 Editorial 12 Op.Ed 13 Letters 14 Opinion 15 Metro 16-18 Business 19-22 Stockwatch 23 S/Report 24-25 Feature 26 Education 27-28 Health 29-30

Rights Commission confirms Gov. Amaechi’s petition – Page 3

Int’l 31-34 Strange World 35 Digest 36 Politics 37-38 Newsxtra

39

Sports 41 Columnist 48

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Stakeholders doubt Jonathan’s sincerity

By Lawrence Olaoye, Abuja, Ahmed Abubakar, Dutse, Mohammed Ibrahim, Kaduna & Ahmed Kaigama, Bauchi

A

s President Goodluck Jonathan inaugurates the 13-man advisory committee charged with the responsibility of working out the modalities for the convocation of a proposed National Conference today, there has been groundswell of doubts over his sincerity in convening the exercise.

While some stakeholders are uncomfortable with the timing of the confab, others are raising constitutional issues concerning the legality of the proposed talk shop.

Among the relevant stakeholders that joined the ranks of those questioning Jonathan’s sincerity in putting up the dialogue are Governor Sule Lamido of Jigawa state, Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) Vice-President, Comrade Issa Aremu, and the Conference of Nigerian Political Parties (CNPP).

Jigawa state governor, Alhaji Sule Lamido, who described the proposed national confab as unconstitutional, also vowed not to participate in it by not sending any delegate from his state.

Lamido, who made the criticism in an interview on a Dutse based Radio station said: “The only solution to the country’s problems is good governance; and also, leaders should abide by due process, rule of law and ethics of leadership.

“Such conference is a fruitless effort and could not make any positive impact on the country. It is a flagrant abuse to democracy when we have the Senate and members of the House of Representatives that are legally and democratically elected to represent any constituency in discussing any national issue.

“Are you going to ask Jega (INEC chairman) to organise election for those that would participate in the dialogue, which

I am sure he would not accept to do; or are you going to select them through nomination to go and take over the responsibility of the elected ones?

“So, the idea for the dialogue lacks any formula in our democratic society, and embarking on such worthless venture is un-ideal”, the governor stressed.

Aremu, who is also General Secretary, Textile Workers’ Union, in a statement he issued yesterday, also raised the issue of sincerity and capacity of Jonathan administration to hold a meaningful dialogue even when he has failed to address miniature ones including the ASUU strike and the lingering crisis in his party, the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).

“If the president, his men and women cannot resolve the university crisis given the existing country’s robust labour laws and rich collective bargaining and dialogue traditions, what trust can the nation put on the administration to handle a national conversation on more naughty issues of national development?

“President Jonathan must come with clean hands on simple conflict resolutions before he can be further entrusted with national conversation of such importance.

So far, the president’s record with conflict resolutions through dialogue either with ASUU, his ruling party or Nigeria Governors’ Forum is not inspiring.

“As long as the micro-crises persist and even getting messy (as non-Academic workers also join ASUU on strikes) this administration suffers feet of clay to deliver a bigger macro- national dialogue of any kind unless we are unwittingly going to fund national diatribes of unimaginable consequences for 165 million people,” he warned.

According to Aremu, Jonathan can only demonstrate his sincerity by first resolving the ASUU issue as any conference convened without the resolution of the university teachers’ crisis would be that of

diversion, a cheap flight from good governance and a waste of the nation’s resources.

“Nigeria must not be a debating society about sharing resources but be a performing economy generating the desperately needed goods and services for the millions of unemployed and underemployed Nigerians begging to add value to national development.

The President, governors and legislators were elected to deliver good governance they promised.

“They should not take cheap refuge in a so-called National Dialogue they never promised the electorate in the first instance. It’s also about keeping promise and faith with the governed, “ Aremu added.

On its part, the CNPP also kicked against the confab, describing it as diversionary.

A statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Osita Okechukwu, suggested that the leadership of the National Assembly should take over even as it raised the fears that the confab may be hijacked by ethnic merchants.

While maintaining that the greatest happiness of Nigerians would not be achieved by the loose conference, the CNPP posited that ‘ethnic merchants’ dominate the 13-man preparatory committee.

“For the avoidance of doubt, Nigeria has never since after the civil war been as divided as now; we are in no doubt at tippingpoint of frustration and rudderless leadership. However the solution to pervasive corruption, crass inequality, gross unemployment and mass poverty is not a conference bridge to nowhere”, it said.

Similarly, the People’s Democratic Movement (PDM) has described the proposed dialogue as a distraction by the PDP led government to win the 2015 election at all cost, just as it faulted the composition of committee members.

Its National Chairman, Malam Bashir Yusuf Ibrahim stated this while fielding questions from

newsmen at the end of the Northeast stakeholders retreat of the party, at the weekend in Bauchi.

According to him, “the decision of President Goodluck Jonathan to convoke a national conference is a distraction. The reason why it is a distraction is because last year this same president said that there was no reason why we should sub-convene the constitutional process of making laws and create another one.

“President Jonathan said whoever has any grouse on any matter affecting the country should go the National Assembly because he does not believe in a national conference. Now he has contradicted himself and this same Goodluck Jonathan has suddenly sprung up the idea of a national dialogue. He wants a national conference now that his party is disintegrating under him and he is foreseeing the chance of losing the 2015 elections,” he stated.

A group, Peace Revival and Reconciliation Foundation of Nigeria, sounded apocalyptic when it stated that the confab may lead to the nation’s break-up.

The National Chairman of the group, Pastor Yohana Duru, urged both traditional and religious leaders to kick against the confab because it may not bring any good to the country.

He said: “We all know that the president himself was against the national conference in the past.

But we don’t know why the sudden change of mind. We don’t know if he set up the dialogue committee because he was being pressurized by some Nigerians or he set it up to appease a section of the country.

“If he did that because he was under pressure or to appease some people, then the aim of the conference has already been defeated. As far as I am concerned, this national committee on dialogue may lead to the breakup of Nigeria because the people that will participate in the dialogue will end up going there with their personal interests,” he said.

Resident doctors may suspend strike today Contd. from Front Page health was put in place to address the challenges identified by NARD on the implementation of IPPIS. The membership of the committee includes, permanent secretaries of the ministries of health and labour, Accountant General of the Federation, chairman of salaries and wages commission, director general, Budget Office of the Federation, director, finance and accounts/IPPIS coordinator, Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) and NARD representatives.

On funding of local and overseas training of resident doctors, the meeting adopted the provisions of the resolution reached on the subject at the meeting held from September 9-10, 2013, between the government and the NMA, with NARD in attendance.

It was also resolved that the chief medical directors (CDMs) of government hospitals should, as earlier stated, come up with the list of resident doctors as well as the amount of arrears owed each of them for necessary action by the minister of health within four

(4) weeks.

Again, it was resolved that NARD, FMC Owerri should suspend their ongoing one month old strike and appeal to the minister of health for the non compliance to Section 43 of the Trade Disputes Act, CAP T8, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004.

On the failure of Enugu state government to implement the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS) for NARD members at the Enugu state University Teaching Hospital, it

was agreed that the ultimatum issued to the Enugu state government by NARD be stepped down, and that NARD should subsequently write to inform the Enugu state government of issues of concern to its members in the spirit of social dialogue.

The resolution was jointly signed by the National President of NARD, Dr. Jubril Abdullahi, Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Health, Amb. Sani Bala, and Mrs. Chinedu Dike of the Federal Ministry of Labour and Productivity.

of the crescent from across the country on Saturday.

“This is sequel to the declaration of Sunday, Oct. 6, 2013, as the first day of Zul-Hijja, 1434 AH, by the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar III. “The sultanate advisory committee on religious affairs

at its meeting on Saturday, Oct. 5, received reports from various moon sighting committees across the country confirming the sighting of the new Moon of Zul-Hijja,1434 AH, on Saturday, which was the 29th day of ZulKi’ida,1434 AH,’’ the statement said.

NAN reports that Eid-el-Kabir

is celebrated world wide on the 10th of Zul-Hijja, the 12th month of the Islamic calendar, and is marked by the slaughtering of ram after a special morning prayer.

It comes a day after pilgrims from across the globe converge on mount Arafat in Saudi Arabia for the annual Hajj.(NAN)

Sultan announces Oct. 15 as Eid-el-Kabir

T

he Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar, yesterday announced Tuesday Oct. 15 as Eid-el-Kabir.

A statement issued in Sokoto

by Prof. Sambo Wali, the Chairman of Sokoto Sultanate Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs, said this followed the sighting

PEOPLES DAILY, MONDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2013

Shiites, Sunnis clash in Sokoto

By Sunday Ejike Benjamin

T

here was unease in the ancient town of Sokoto, the capital of Sokoto State as thousands of members of Shi’ite Islamic sect under the leadership of Sheikh Ibrahim El-Zakzaky yesterday stormed its streets to celebrate the release of their leaders after a seven-year incarceration.

A source said there was a

Boko Haram: Gwoza residents live in fear

flash of violence in the city as some youths engaged Shi’ite members in a fight. The source disclosed that several persons were injured.

The source added that security operatives were able to step in and calm the situation before it degenerated into an all-out battle.

Thousands of youths, women and men participated

in the procession which featured a long convoy of cars. The Shiite members, according to sources, marched through the streets of Sokoto following the release of 111 of their members by the state High Court 3.

Most of the shops along Sokoto’s major streets were closed down to prevent mass looting of goods as Police officers were quickly deployed

at most of the roundabouts in the town after some youths started setting car tires ablaze.

Meanwhile, Police Public Relations Officer in Sokoto, DSP Al-Mustapha Sani confirmed the incident to Hausa service of the BBC but said only one person was injured and admitted that the Shiite did not seek approval before they embarked on their action.

By Hassan Haruna Ginsau

R

esidents of Gwoza local government area of Borno State have expressed fears following the constant attacks from Boko Haram militants Aside from the burning of schools, residents complained of the constant checkpoints the militants mount on the roads leading to the town.

A resident of the town who recently fled the area, told the BBC on condition of anonymity that last Saturday the militants mounted a checkpoint at the nearby town of Kirawa and slaughtered people from the towns of Gwoza and Bama.

He added that majority of the town's people, mainly youth had fled the area.

Gwoza has been a target of Boko Haram attacks in the past, last month, gunmen attacked the town's prison, freeing many prisoners.

T

he National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has confirmed the receipt of a petition from the Rivers State Governor Rotimi Chibuike Amaechi over allegations of deteriorating human rights situation in the state.

According to the Director of Public Affairs and Communication of the commission, Muhammad Nasir Ladan, the Rivers State's Governor's petition dated October 1, 2013 has been received by the Commission and investigations into the allegations has commenced.

According to the petition obtained by our correspondent yesterday in Abuja, Governor Amaechi, among others, accused the State's Commissioner of Police Joseph Mbu of exercising his duties without recourse to necessary constitutional and legal

Again, NCAA suspends Dana Air licence

From Suleiman Idris, Lagos

R

eports emanating from the aviation industry indicated shortly before our press time that Dana Airline’s operations had been suspended again.

This followed the suspension of the airline’s licence by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).

Yesterday’s action comes months after the airline’s operational licence has been restored nearly a year after one of its craft crashed in Lagos, killing more than 100 people. No reason was given for the aviation authorities’ action.

New PDP to Jonathan: Sack Tukur, offer him ministerial post

By Lawrence Olaoye

T R-L: President Goodluck Jonathan (R), welcoming Kenya’s Special Envoy, Ambassador Amina Abdalla to the State House, yesterday in Abuja.

Photo: Joe Oroye

Rights commission confirms Amaechi's petition

By Sunday Ejike Benjamin

News PAGE 3

standards.

According to Amaechi, "the Rivers State Commissioner of Police is presently led by Mbu whose pattern of actions and public utterances are manifestly contrary to basic standards of behavior for a person occupying his very sensitive office; the constitutional framework for controlling the security structures of a state, the unique security challenges, formations networks and infrastructure of Rivers State, and the mission statement of the Nigerian

Police, the creation of a safer and more secure environment conducive to meaningful socioeconomic development through crime prevention and control”.

Amaechi also said “currently the state Commissioner barely acknowleges official communications from the Governor, not to mention other principal agents of Rivers state. The avenues for giving him lawful directives in my constitutional role as the Chief Security Officer of the state have been unilaterally and unlawfully

precluded by Mr. Mbu. “Mr. Mbu has joined an unprecedented disposition to publicly ridicule the person and office of the principal members of a state Government including the Governor by a state police Commissioner with unilateral and unreasonable actions made to undermine interagency security collaborations, democratic activities of elected and appointed public officers and the operations of whole units of government”, he stressed.

Taraba ag governor survives car crash From Ayodele Samuel, Lagos

T

he Taraba state acting Governor, Alhaji Garba Umar was involved in a road accident along the Gombe/ Bauchi Road early yesterday.

His Chief Press Secretary (CPS), Kefas Sule, who confirmed the accident however told our

correspondent last night that the incident was not a fatal mishap as reported in online medium.

Sule said the accident occurred when the convoy of the Emir of Bauchi, Alhaji Rilwanu Adamu ran into that of the Taraba acting governor.

“His vehicle was not involved.

It was one of the security escort

vehicles that was involved and the acting governor was unhurt; everybody on the entourage survived”, the CPS said.

Sule denied online reports that the acting governor was injured in the accident, saying his boss continued on his journey after checks were made on the affected vehicle.

he New Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) under the leadership of Alhaji Abubakar Kawu Baraje, yesterday urged President Goodluck Jonathan to sack Alhaji Bamanga Tukur, the National Chairman of the PDP and offer him a ministerial slot as a palliative.

The splinter PDP in a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Chief Eze Chukwuemeka Eze, said this has become imperative because it has discovered that Tukur is not a registered card carrying member of the party.

According to the Baraje group, "Alhaji Tukur was expelled from the PDP in 2006 with nine others as a result following disciplinary action taken against them for antiparty activities.

"Consequently, all the actions he has taken as the Chairman of PDP since his purported election in March 2012, including the illegal, contentious convention of August, 2013, are null and void and of no effect.

“Reliable information reaching us from the PDP National Secretariat indicates that Alhaji Tukur is desperately seeking a way out of his predicament and has set about falsifying party records with regard to revalidating his membership through the back door. We wish to put him on notice that this is criminal and we hope he understands the consequences of his actions," the faction warned.

Page 4 Report PAGE 4

PEOPLES DAILY, MONDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2013

Stopping stowaways through sensitisation

Osaigbovo Iguobaro, in Benin writes on the efforts of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) towards discouraging stowaways, by enlisting the support of airport host communities.

T

he adventure of Daniel Ohikhena, the boy who stowed away to Lagos from Benin Airport in an Arik Air Flight WS 544 on Saturday, August 24, has resulted in the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) improving on security and surveillance of airports across the country, with efforts on to erect perimeter fences to keep wanderers away.

According to FAAN’s spokesperson, Yakubu Datti: “It is not only at the Benin Airport that contracts would be awarded for the construction of perimeter fences and operational fences but also at other airports across the country. Most of these projects are expected to commence in 2014 while the remaining ones will be executed in 2015, in line with the transformation agenda of President Goodluck Jonathan in the aviation industry.”

Datti added: “FAAN has taken the issue of security at our airports more seriously in recent times, as shown in the dismantling and removal of abandoned aircraft at all our airports and the relocation of petrol tankers from the access road of the Murtala Mohammed Airport, Lagos – feats that had been difficult to accomplish for many years.”

He explained that at every airport without fully functional perimeter fence, a FAAN security vehicle would be deployed to a point within full view of the aircraft as it taxies out to take off and maintain visual scrutiny until every departing aircraft is safely airborne.

Also, bushes in all airports would be cleared to ensure full view of the perimeter, to give the control tower, FAAN Fire and Rescue observation posts, as well as aviation security patrol teams, a comprehensive view of the entire perimeter of an airport from their duty posts.

However, concerned by the mixed reactions that Daniel’s case had generated, with some people condemning the act as criminal, saying no level of hardship or deprivation could have warranted the risk he exposed himself to, while others commend the bravery

Edo state Governor, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, 15-year-old stowaway boy, Daniel Ohikhena and FAAN MD, George Uriesi

of the boy, the management of FAAN, led by the Managing Director, George Uriesi, was in Benin City recently to sensitise the airport’s host communities to the danger inherent in stowing away in aircraft.

The team’s first port of call was the palace of the Oba of Benin, where the revered monarch, Omo N’Oba Erediauwa, received the FAAN leadership. Explaining the purpose of the visit, Uriesi said: “We came to engage with the communities near our airport in Benin City. We want to sensitise the airport community on the dangers of youths attempting to stow away on aeroplanes and we

have gone round the airport for first-hand knowledge. We consider this meeting with your majesty as the first most important step in our host community dialogue series.

We see the inhabitants of communities near the airports as important stakeholders and allies we cannot do without for the protection of our airports.”

But the monarch was interested in knowing from the FAAN boss how Daniel survived the trip to Lagos in the aircraft’s wheel well where he had hidden.

Responding, Uriesi said: “It was a miracle. The chance of survival for such risky adventure is slim and no one

“

Uriesi explained to the governor that he and his team were in Edo state to educate the people on the ills of stowing away. He added that they were in Benin to assess the stowaway incident, which had forced his organisation to review and improve on its security arrangements.

should be allowed to take that deadly risk. It is not the way out of any problem. The chance of survival is 0.01 percent, and even the .01 percent is as a result of Daniel’s miraculous survival.”

The FAAN boss was right. In the last three years, four people had attempted to stowaway, with only Daniel surviving.

In March 2010, Okechukwu Okeke was found dead in the nose wheel compartment of Delta Airlines Boeing B777 aircraft at the Murtala Mohammed International Airport tarmac in Lagos. The man had smuggled himself into the aircraft only to arrive at the destination cold dead.

In September of that same year, the crushed body of another stowaway was found in the wheel well of an Arik Air aircraft which had just arrived from Johannesburg, South Africa. In 2012, the body of a stowaway was discovered in the undercarriage compartment of an Arik Air aircraft after its return from a flight to New York.

Omo N’Oba Erediauwa, who assured the FAAN leadership of the support of his people to discourage stowaways, also used the opportunity of the visit to plead that the Benin Airport should be upgraded to

international status.

The FAAN team later visited Edo state Governor, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, where Daniel was in attendance.

Uriesi explained to the governor that he and his team were in Edo state to educate the people on the ills of stowing away. He added that they were in Benin to assess the stowaway incident, which had forced his organisation to review and improve on its security arrangements.

The FAAN MD said, “We are responding to the incident of the stowaway of that young boy a few weeks ago which was a big surprise to all of us. We want to inform you that we have taken strenuous measures to ensure that a similar incident does not happen. It was a serious and miraculous event, because prior to that day, I would have told you it was a suicidal mission. We are trying to create awareness that this is suicidal and young people should not attempt it at all.

The likelihood of survival is slim.”

In his response, Comrade Oshiomhole lauded the initiative of FAAN in educating the people on the dangers inherent in stowing away in aircraft, adding that this would go a long way in stopping those who might be considering a similar thing.

Speaking on the gesture extended to Daniel, the governor said, “without meaning to encourage anyone else, we decided to support him by sending him to one of the top secondary schools in Edo state that is owned by the government.

“The reason for opting for a boarding school is that we think that they need to closely watch him, which his parents could not do. He is an intelligent young man with uncommon challenges, but one that has a vision. We had him examined by people who should know and the result confirmed that he is normal.”

The team later visited communities in the neighbourhood of the airport where the managing director sought the understanding of parents in ensuring that their children were discouraged from embarking on stowing away in aircraft, pointing out that it was a perilous venture as stowaways usually died before arriving their destination. He added that even where they survived, they would be prosecuted, saying the only thing that saved Daniel from prosecution was that he was a minor.

The communities assured Uriesi of their support in keeping wanderers away from the airport.

News

PEOPLES DAILY, MONDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2013

PAGE 5

Visa racketeering: ICPC moves to arrest diplomats, civil servants

By Ikechukwu Okaforadi & Joy Baba

T

he Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) at the weekend, threatened to arrest both civil servants and embassy officials who are involved in shoddy visa procurement deals.

In a statement issued by the commission's Resident Consultant on Media and Events, Folu Olamiti, ICPC said it has turned its search light on corruption-prone processes in visa acquisition.

On this basis, it warned that anything that would compromise the process of transparent issuance of visas, which may

PTDF is broke, says ES

involve the use of cloned or fake visa supporting official documents during applications, would henceforth be sanctioned.

According to the commission, this is as a result of on-going investigations and recent arrests of culprits throughout the country.

It therefore warned travellers, especially young persons, who seek to undertake business, academic, leisure or medical trips abroad to be wary of using touts and dubious Travel Agencies in the procurement of visas.

"Most of these Agents usually hang around the vicinity of embassies with no fixed addresses.

Our investigations show that these agents usually make mouth-

watering claims of procuring lucrative jobs, citizenships and academic placements abroad for clients, in addition to procuring visas in record time", the commission pointed out.

It further observed that in most cases, these fake agents promised their clients that they would not be required to physically appear for visa interviews at the embassies or High Commissions.

"These dubious agents and touts offer services which include facilitation for the acquisition of international passports, assistance in filling their clients’ details in online visa application forms and the provision of required support travel documents", the statement reads.

It noted that these support documents are oftentimes forged and include cloned bank statements, birth certificates, fake or real admission letters from foreign schools and invitation letters for professional, religious and academic conferences, adding that these agents provide misleading and incorrect personal data including wrong addresses, next- of-kin for emergency contact, employment records, and referees.

ICPC advised intending travellers to contact reputable Travel Agencies, the Nigerian Immigration Service or embassies directly in such transactions for clarifications.

By Ikechukwu Okaforadi

T

he Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) will run into financial crisis in few months following the alleged refusal of the Finance Ministry to release backlog of funds owed the agency as appropriated in the 2013 budget.

Briefing the senate committee on Petroleum (Upstream), which was led by the chairman, Emmanuel Paulker, on an oversight visit to the agency, the Executive Secretary of PTDF, Oluwole Oluleye, put the amount owed to the agency at over N57 billion.

He stressed that the agency will get bankrupt in months except the over N57 billion 2013 budget backlog owed it by the finance ministry is paid.

The executive secretary further pointed out that this bankruptcy can degenerate to withdrawal of hundreds of Nigerian PTDF scholarship students who are currently studying in foreign universities.

He further told the Senate Committee that the PTDF has not been able to pay staff salaries in the past two months due to the cash crunch, reminding them that the multibillion dollar statutory "signature bonus" payments have been withheld from PTDF over the years.

The PTDF Act promulgated in 1973 provides that the agency will be funded by proceeds from the sale of crude oil blocks, otherwise known as signature bonus.

He said the agency have managed to keep the scholarship students afloat, adding that they were forced to travel to some of the schools, to explain the challenges which the foreign universities have been very understanding.

However, the Chairman of Senate Committee on Petroleum Resources (Upstream), Emmanuel Paulker, faulted PTDF's bankruptcy claims on the grounds that the agency has severally shrouded in secrecy its portfolio investments and other sources of income.

He also faulted the anticipatory budgeting practice of the PTDF, saying the practice was criminal and contrary to the procurement Act.

R-L: Vice-President Mohammed Namadi Sambo, in a handshake with Bauchi state Governor, Malam Isa Yuguda, during the vice-president’s condolence visit to the governor over the death of his younger sister, yesterday in Bauchi.

NYF debunks upheaval during summit

T

he Northern Youth Forum (NYF) has refuted reports that scores of people were killed as hell was let loose during its Youth Summit held at the weekend in Kaduna.

According to a statement issued by the NYF national chairman, Alhaji Jibril Tafida and the forum’s secretary, Hon. Simon V. Domle, stories syndicated in some media are mere propaganda which ran contrary to the official confirmation by the state commissioner of police that no lives were lost.

The forum added that: “The rumour that money was given to the Forum was a clear case of contradiction of media reports, and we challenged anyone who has given a penny to us to come forward and say it. In a failed attempt to discredit the biggest northern youth gathering for discussing the political future of the region, the statement said a section of the opposition has resorted to unleashing dirty media propaganda.

It is therefore shocking that, despite live coverage by the AIT, some mischief-makers went ahead to sponsor a series of media propaganda, aimed at sabotaging the effort to bring together youth for developing a blueprint for the region’s future.

“We assure Northern youth, especially those who openly expressed their opinions on how to move the region forward, during the Summit that we shall do all that is humanly possible to promote their views. We therefore urge them to remain calm. They should not let the new media propaganda against the Forum by the opposition distract them”, the statement said.

CAC workers suspend strike, resume today

By Stanley Onyekwere

T

he workers of the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) yesterday suspended their industrial action over alleged wide disparity in salaries of executive and non-executive staff of the commission.

The workers under the Amalgamated Union of Public Corporations, Civil Service Technical and Recreational Services Employees (AUPCTRE) had on Friday in Abuja embarked on an indefinite strike to express their grievances over the nonimplementation of the agreement reached in 2010 between the management and AUPCTRE over

the matter.

In a communiqué read after a tripartite meeting between the Federal Ministry of Trade and Investment, CAC management and the workers union, the Acting Chairman of AUPCTRE, Comrade Bivan Stephen, said all parties on the basis of the negotiation at the meeting agreed that among others, the non-executive staff of the commission shall be paid an enhanced bonus of 108.32% from the agreed period.

He said 50% palliative to be paid on or before Friday this week, while the portion of the enhanced bonus shall be paid monthly; saying “In consideration of the agreement

reached, all parties agreed that the on-going industrial action be suspended immediately, and that no staff shall be victimized for participating in the industrial action.

According to him: “On the disparities in salary structure, agreement was reached that the commission shall set up a committee to work out modalities for bridging the wide gap in the salary structure.”

“The membership of the committee shall be drawn from the CAC board, management and AUPCTRE with representation from the permanent Ministry of Trade and Investment; the committee shall begin work

immediately and submit its report within two weeks.”

He added that: “At the conclusion of the work the Technical Committee shall present its recommendations for implementation to the relevant authorities within the shortest possible time.

“All parties request the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade & Investment to reconvene another meeting by the end of October, 2013to consider the effects given to the above agreement; and anything contrary to the above agreement shall result in the reversal to status quo ante.

PEOPLES DAILY, MONDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2013

PAGE 6

News

Rivers crisis: Jonathan is test-running fascism ahead of 2015 - APC From Adesoji Oyinlola, Lagos

T

he All Progressives Congress (APC) has accused the presidency of using Rivers state as a testing ground for creeping f a sc i sm a h e a d o f t he 2 0 1 5 elections.

The party urged all Nigerians to pay a close attention to the apparently-instigated ugly developments in the state.

In a statement issued yesterday in Lagos by its National Publicity Secretary, Alhaji Lai Mohammed,

the APC said it was raising the alarm because, as the saying goes, “all it takes for evil to flourish is for good men to do nothing”.

The party decried the worsening impunity and the violation of constitutional provisions, including the freedom of association and freedom of movement in the state against those perceived to be against the president. ‘’The arrowhead of these grave acts is none other than the Rivers Commissioner of Police,

Mbu Joseph Mbu, a malleable police officer who has put himself above the laws of the land and is now, undoubtedly, the Alternate Inspector-General of Police, who can neither be queried nor redeployed because his puppeteers are in the Aso Rock,’’ APC said. ‘’Imagine every State Police Commissioner in Nigeria behaving like Alternate IGP Mbu, who neither respects nor takes orders from the man constitutionally saddled with ensuring security in his state. Imagine every State

Police Commissioner having the powers to determine who can move around and where, or who can assembly and where, just like Alternate IGP Mbu? ‘’While we may think this madness is restricted only to Rivers State, the danger is that if those behind the Rivers crisis can get away with their impunity, what prevents them from extending it to other states? ...All that is needed for despotism to reign in our clime is for more and more states to

have men like Mbu as Police Commissioners,’’ it said. ‘’If Mbu’s reign of the jungle and President Jonathan’s testing of fascism are allowed to continue in Rivers state, it is only a matter of time before the entire country will become their playground, with deadly consequences for all”, the APC said.

Yobe provides N160m medical support for 320 indigent patients From Uche Uche, Damaturu

T

R-L: Leader of Tijjaniyya sect in Africa, Sheikh Khalifa Malam Isiyaka Rabi’u, and Kano state Governor, Engineer Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso, during the former’s visit to the governor, on Saturday at the Government House, in Kano.

Why we must strengthen our courts, by Idris Wada

From Omale Adama, Lokoja

G

overnor Idris Wada of Kogi has advocated the provision of adequate infrastructures and conducive atmosphere for a virile and dependable judicial system to thrive in the country.

“The law courts essentially exist as custodians of the rights of our citizens. It is to the courts that the individual turns when there is an encroachment on those basic rights

and interests.

“A court house is therefore, the factory where peace and security are manufactured in order to create the right climate for government to achieve an egalitarian society”, Governor Wada stressed at the weekend while inaugurating the newly constructed state High Court complex in Koton-Karfe.

The governor noted that the court also stood as a symbol of Democracy, “symbol of our faith in

the Rule of Law and administration of justice under the Constitution and a renewal of our faith in the system.”

Speaking earlier, the state Chief Judge, Nasir Ajanah thanked the governor for providing the needed resources saying: “Together we have shared and signed on to a common cause in the pursuit of liberty, freedom and justice in the state under democratic governance.”

He assured that the court would zealously guard against violation of rights and perform its expected service to the nation and humanity saying; “We are under public duty to administer justice.

We must not fail.”

The governor, an hour later, also inaugurated a court house accommodating two Chief Magistrates and Family Courts in Lokoja, constructed under his administration.

disaster across the country.

According to him, traditional leaders have greater role to play in disaster management within their communities.

Ilallah disc l o s e d t h is at a one-day workshop on first responders to disaster organized by the District Head of Fansanu, Alhaji Muhammad Shu’aibu, at

Gadan Gayan area of Igabi local government of Kaduna state.

“NEMA, as we know, has a programme for training volunteers at the grassroots level and is ready to collaborate with individuals or groups of people to mitigate the impact of disaster in Nigeria,” he aid.

In his remarks, the district

head said many communities were affected by floods in this year’s rainy season across the state.

“The aimed of organizing this workshop is to prepare our communities on how to manage disasters such as floods, fire, among others. We want our people to be fully aware of disaster control management,” he said.

NEMA partners traditional leaders on disaster management

From Mohammad Ibrahim, Kaduna

T

he North-west zonal coordinator of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA),North Alhaji Musa Ilallah has assured of the agency’s readiness to partner traditional rulers in order to curb

he Yobe state government has spent N160 million to support less privileged patients, including civil servants and victims of Boko Haram violence to seek medical support outside the state.

A statement signed by Governor Ibrahim Gaidam’s Special Adviser on Press Affairs Abdullahi Bego said the governor approved the support to over 320 patients on the basis of recommendation of the state medical board “because the conditions of the patients demand for it”.

Bego said the money was released between the months of June and September, 2013, adding that between January and May, 2013, more than N100 million was spent in providing similar support to more than 100 other patients.

The statement added: “This is part of ongoing effort to provide succor to the less privileged as an interim measure, as the government works to re-position the state’s health sector through massive renovation of hospitals and provision of equipment and drugs. “Some of the conditions/ procedures for which the patients were supported by the government on the recommendations of the state medical board include kidney transplant, open heart surgery, cardiac catheterization, spinal cord surgery, knee and hip replacement therapy, and several orthopedic and ophthalmology cases referred to hospitals within the country including Dala Orthopedic Hospital, National Eye Centre Kaduna and other hospitals in India and Egypt.

“Among the 300 patients, 18 were supported to undergo knee and hip replacement therapy and other orthopedic procedures to treat gunshot wounds sustained in various attacks by criminals and insurgents.

“The number also includes less privileged patients with chronic conditions such as advanced diabetes and chronic liver disease who require regular medications but are not in a position to provide on their own”, he said.

PEOPLES DAILY, MONDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2013

PAGE 7

News

2013 Hajj

Kaduna completes airlift of 5,629 pilgrims

From Mohammad Ibrahim, Kaduna

K

Pilgrims wearing face masks in the holy city to protect themselves from the deadly MERS virus.

Kabo management denies aircraft crash From Edwin Olofu, Kano

T

he management of Kabo Air limited, yesterday in Kano debunked media reports that a Saudi- Arabia bound Kabo aircraft crashed in Sokoto, explaining that the Boeing 747 aircraft rather lost two of its 18 tyres on landing at the Abubakar III International Airport, Sokoto.

Speaking to reporters at the weekend in Kano, the airline’s Public Relations officer, Alhaji Aminu Hamza, said the aircraft in an attempt to land at the Sokoto International Airport, lost two of its rear tyres attached to the main body, but the pilot was able to control the plane to a safe parking.

Hamza said the chattered Boeing 747 jumbo jet, with 494 international passengers on-board took off from the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport on Friday en-route Sokoto to Saudi Arabia.

He however refuted reports that the aircraft had an emergency landing saying tha it only lost two of its

18 tyres in the process of landing adding that there was no diversion as the aircraft was to pick additional 54 international passengers in Sokoto before the incident.

Kabo air Director of Flight Operations, Captain Joseph Machinu, also confirmed to that the aircraft just returned from Indonesia where it underwent maintenance and air worthiness.

aduna State Pilgrims’ Board has completed airlifting of its 5,629 pilgrims to the Holy land for this year’s Hajj exercise.

The last batch of the pilgrims who departed for the Holy land on Saturday were from Birnin Gwari and Jema’a Local government areas as well as the officials of the state’s board.

A statement signed by the Board’s Public Relations Officer, Alhaji Yunusa Muhammad Abdullahi, said the pilgrims were airlifted by Max, Meridian and Kabo airlines.

Giving the number of pilgrims each airline airlifted in eleven flights, he said Max airlifted 2,000 pilgrims, Meridian 2,000 while Kabo air airlifted 1,629 pilgrims.

According to him, the entire outbound exercises went smoothly as scheduled without any record of hindrance.

While expressing his gratitude for the successful airlifting of the pilgrims to Holy land, the Overseer of the Board, Malam Kabiru Mohammad Kasimu, thanked the State Governor, Mukhtar Ramalan Yero for his moral and financial support to the Board.

He also thanked all the stakeholders, Customs, Immigration, NAFDAC, NDLEA, and Muslim Aid Groups for their cooperation during the airlifting exercise.

Kabiru promised a hitchfree hajj exercise while in Saudi Arabia and during return journey back home.

…. Transports pilgrims of ill-fated aircraft to Saudi

T

he 400 intending pilgrims from Kano, who were aboard the ill-fated Kabo airline’s Boeing 747 aircraft at the Sultan Abubakar III International Airport, Sokoto, on Friday have finally been transported to Saudi Arabia.

Madu Bukar, Acting Manager of the Sokoto airport, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Sokoto on Saturday that the intending pilgrims departed for Saudi Arabia around 5 p.m. on Saturday.

Bukar said that another aircraft, with registration number 200-3, took off

from the airport with 537 intending pilgrims.

Gov. Saidu Dakingari of Kebbi, his wife, Zainab and 48 intending pilgrims from Kebbi were among those aboard the aircraft.

It would be recalled that the ill-fated Kabo Airlines’ plane developed a fault on Friday and another Boeing 747 aircraft flew in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, to convey the intending pilgrims.

Meanwhile, the last batch of intending pilgrims from the state has been transported from the airport by Max Airlines.(NAN)

PAGE 8

PEOPLES DAILY, MONDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2013

USEFUL PHONE NUMBERS ON ANY EMERGENCY Council endorsed the useful phone numbers submitted by the security agents for easy access in case of any emergency on the metropolitan Roads. Accordingly, the general public may easily Contact KAROTA for: Breakdown of Vehicle(s), Traffic Congestion, Accidents, and Illegal/Wrong Parking to kindly Call KAROTA through the following number – 08091626747. Similarly, the State Police Command could be contacted on – 08032419754 and 08123821575. In addition, the State Fire Service can also be contacted on – 07051246833 and 08191778888.

118TH KANO STATE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL MEETING esterday 1st October, 2013 Nigeria celebrated its fifty-third (53rd) year as an Independent Sovereign Nation commemorated with the usual observance of a Public Holiday during which sober reflections are made along with viable/prospective future projections by all and sundry especially those in seats of power.

Public available resources were conserved by not staging capital-intensive activities of pump and pageantry denoting festive dispositions considered unnecessary.

Nevertheless, Governor Engr. Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso, FNSE heralded the day (1st October, 2013) by holding a parley/open discussion with members of the press on the performances of his government for close to seven (7) of the fifty-three (53) years of existence of Nigeria as the Executive Governor of Kano State.

This was worthwhile as in depth discussions were held along with the provision of answers to important questions by Governor Engr. Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso, FNSE live to the hearing of the entire public in the State and the world in general.

These discussions/questions and answers centered on the performances of the present administration in executing public spirited/oriented services aimed at transforming all sectors positively with the envisaged result of improving the quality of life of the entire citizenry of the State. Education, Agriculture, Water Supply, Environmental Sanitation, Infrastructure, Health, Empowerment, etc. were discussed, questions asked and answered. Prominent projects, policies and programs were highlighted along with emphasis on the resolve to see them to their successful completion within the tenure of the present administration.

As usual, the Kano State Executive Council forged ahead by holding its one hundred and eighteenth (118th) sitting today Wednesday 2nd October, 2013 (27th Zhul Qiddah, 1434 AH) under the Chairmanship of Governor Engr. Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso, FNSE. Forty-nine (49) memoranda were submitted for deliberation

by Council from twelve (12) MDAs among which twenty-eight (28) were approved for execution with an expenditure of Three Billion, Four Hundred and Seventy Two Million, Eight Hundred and Eleven Thousand, Five Hundred and Twelve Naira and Forty Kobo (N3,472,811,512.40) covering twenty (20) projects. Thus:

iii.

There is the need to permanently relocate the squatters surrounding the Sports Complex; iv.

There is the need to redesign and decorate the perimeter wall fencing at the Sports Complex; and v.

There is the need to construct a mosque for the five (5) daily prayers at the Sports Complex.

• Kano Sports Institute, Karfi It is gratifying that the team reported to Council that the three (3) important structures at the site would be completed in forty-one (41) days. These include Classrooms, Hostel and Lecture Theatre. Again, the following highlights were presented to Council for information: i.

Construction of the Indoor Sports hall has reached advanced stage to be ready for use soon; ii.

Facilities for boxing, gymnastics, squash, volleyball, lawn tennis and handball are being developed; and iii.

General works are in progress; Council appreciatively acknowledged the presentation and directed the Honorable Commissioners, Ministry of Works, Housing and Transport; Projects Monitoring and Evaluation Directorate and the Special Adviser Sports to redouble efforts at ensuring immediate completion of the projects within the shortest time possible but without compromising quality.

Y

1.

OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY TO THE STATE GOVERNMENT This Office submitted nineteen (19) memoranda for deliberation by Council.

Nine (9) of them were approved for execution as follows: a.

Request for Funds to Facilitate the Successful Accomplishment of Additional Functions of Private Health Institutions Registration (PHIRU) Unit:The Private Health Institutions Registration Unit (PHIRU) operating under the State’s Ministry of Health submitted a request for funds through the Office of the Secretary to the State Government to facilitate successful accomplishment of its additional function of supervising the operations of Traditional Medicine Practitioners in Kano State.

Reportedly, PHIRU complied with the Executive Council’s directive and formed an additional team charged with supervising operations of the Traditional Medicine Sellers/Operators. This is in view to enforce adoption of protective measures toward eliminating health hazards caused by the use of traditional drugs manufactured under unhygienic conditions by Traditional Medicine Practitioners.

As such, PHIRU solicited the services of Kano Road Traffic Agency (KAROTA), Civil Defence Corps and Vigilante Group members in its operations for which the unit requested for the release of additional operational funds by Council and a provision of an 18 – Seater Bus to facilitate the successful accomplishment of the additional assignment for the period of August – September, 2013. The contents of the memorandum presented details on the fourteen items required along with their financial implications for consideration. The aggregate sum of N599, 200.00 was requested for release to cover the fourteen (14) items required along with the provision of one (1) unit of an 18 – Seater Toyota Hiace Bus. Council approved the release of the sum of N599, 200.00 to the Unit to facilitate the takeoff of the supervision/control of Traditional Medicine Practitioners’ activities. b.

Presentation of the Need to Adopt Strict Measure for Sustainable Management of the “Common Facility Center” Established by the Present Administration:Council recalled the construction of a “Common Facility Center” at Sharada Industrial Estate by this administration for Small Scale Industrial Business in the State. With the completion of the Center, the need arises for a management structure to handle the running of the Facility. This is the basis for this memorandum. The Ministry prepared a proposed Management/Maintenance structure for the running of the Center with a view to ensuring transparency and accountability. A copy of the Management structure was presented to Council for consideration and approval for implementation.

Council appreciatively acknowledged the presentation and approved the immediate implementation of the proposed management/maintenance structure for the stated common Facility Center. c.

Presentation of the Resolutions of the Academic Staff Union Kano University of Science and Technology (KUST), Wudil Chapter:The Kano State Ministry of Higher Education submitted the resolutions of the Academic Staff Union KUST, Wudil Chapter for noting of Council. The resolutions were reached during the National ASUU meetings of 19th and 24th June, 2013.

Highlights submitted include the following: i.

That the University Law is ready for review by the University (KUST) Committee set – up for the purpose; ii.

That the University (KUST) Governing Council should be free and fair in the selection process of the Vice Chancellor in line with laid down procedures; iii.

That the Kano State Government efforts towards improving the funding of the Education Sector in the State is commendable as manifested by the signing into Law, the State Education Trust Fund (KETFUND) and the Congress calls on Government to expedite action in setting the necessary structure for the Agency to take – off; and iv.

That the congress would continue supporting an indefinite ASUU strike if the Federal Government fails to implement its obligation of the 2009 ASUU – FGN – agreement.

Council acknowledged the presentation and called the Federal Government and ASUU to resolve their differences in earnest so the classes could resume for the educational development of the nation. d.

Presentation of Acknowledgement of Receipt by Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) of WG156040 X – Ray Hand Baggage Scanner Machines and Expression of Gratitude to the Kano State Government:The Regional General Manager (North), on behalf of the Managing Director of FAAN and the Management Staff of Malam Aminu Kano International Airport, submitted acknowledgement and sincere gratitude over receipt of two (2) WG156040 X – Ray Hand baggage Scanner Machines donated by the Kano State Government as philanthropic gesture towards enhancing security operations at the Malam Aminu

Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso Kano International Airport.

The contents of this memorandum/letter of appreciation prayed that the good rapport and cordial relationship between the Good Government of Kano State and the Airport would continue to subsist for the progress and prosperity of the people of Kano State. Council acknowledged the presentation with appreciation. e.

Presentation of Notification of Donation of Four (4) Sets of Audio Visual Aids to the Northwest University, Kano by the TOTEIL LTD.:The Secretary to the State Government notified Council, through the contents of this memorandum that the State Ministry of Higher Education intimated Government on the donation of four (4) sets of Audio Visual sets worth the sum of N2,500,000.00 to Northwest University, Kano by TOTEIL Ltd. Specifically, the philanthropic gesture by the TOTEIL Ltd. is in recognition of the present administration’s giant stride at reviving education in the State particularly at tertiary level. Council calls other Companies and Philanthropists to emulate this kind gesture for the development of the State. Council appreciatively acknowledged the presentation. f.

Request for Funds to Enable Payment for Diesel (AGO) and Base Oil Supplied to the Task Committee on Installation/Repairs and Reactivation of Street and Traffic Control Lights:The request cited in this memorandum requested the release of the aggregate sum of N56,560,000.00 to enable the payment for Diesel (AGO) and Base Oil consumed by the Task Force Committee on Installation/Repairs/Reactivation of Street and Traffic Control lights. Details were submitted to Council for consideration. Approval was granted as requested by Council. g.

Presentation of Situation Report on Kano State Sports Institute, Karfi, Kofar Na’isa Sports Complex and Kano Sports Academy:Sports are deservedly considered as a viable industry by the present administration that beacons for investment as it provides lucrative job opportunities open/accessible to our teeming unemployed youths. As such, three (3) important Sports related establishments were initiated along with the appointment of a Special Adviser (Sports).

The contents of this memorandum presented highlights of the situation report on the three (3) newly created Sports related establishments as submitted by a team under the Chairmanship of the Honorable Commissioner, Ministry of Works, Housing and Transport.

• The Kano Sports Academy The team visited the Kano Sports Academy situated at the former Ultra – Modern Women Development Center and identified its significant requirements for immediate successful take – off.

Reportedly, the Academy is being segmented into four (4) sections designated as zones (i.e. Administrative zone, Academic zone, Hospitality zone and Logistics/ Sports Science zone). Again, an existing set of buildings proposed for use as a Primary School are to be converted for use as hostel for residence in respect of external Clients/ Trainees.

• Kofar Na’isa Sports Complex Though progress of work was shortly disturbed by incidence of the rainy season, performance is impressive on the following: i.

Demarcation of drainage and access roads, ii.

Completion of perimeter wall fencing, iii.

Planting of suitable grass in the playing fields, and iv.

The lightening system for the complex is under consideration.

In any case, the following suggestions were made to Government on the Sports Complex. Viz; i.

There is the need to include 8 – lane tartan tracks for field and track events as well as for training for general athletics at the Complex; ii.

There is the need to relocate the existing Police Outpost located in the middle of the Complex as the structure is currently used as Office for the Chief Security Office of the Complex;

2.

MINISTRY OF RURAL AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT Two (2) of the three (3) memoranda submitted for deliberation by Council from this Ministry were approved for execution. Thus: a.

Presentation of Request for Approval and Release of Funds for the Purchase/Replacement of Obsolete Existing Electricity Transformers in Respect of the Emir’s Palace and Jamiu Rasuul (Sabuwar Gandu) Nasiru Kabara Mosque:The Honorable Commissioner, Ministry of Rural and Community Development notified Council through the contents of this memorandum of the persistent electric power outages for considerable length of time in the Emir’s Palace and Jamiu Rasuul (Sabuwar Gandu) Nasiru Kabara Mosque.

The Rural Electrification Board was directed to inspect and submit an estimate/ cost for the replacement of the existing obsolete electricity transformers at the stated sites. The assignment was executed with dispatch yielding a request for the release of the aggregate sum of N15, 315,538.00 by Council to address the problem.

Council noted, considered and approved the release of the aggregate sum of N15, 315,538.00 to the Ministry of Rural and Community Development to enable the execution of the two (2) projects as follows: i.

Replacement of existing obsolete electricity transformer at the Emir’s Palace

= N7,076,306.00; ii.

Replacement of existing obsolete electricity transformer at Jamiu Rasuul (Sabuwar Gandu) Nasiru Kabara Mosque

= N8,239,232.00 Total = N15, 239,232.00 b.

Request for Funds to Enable the Replacement of Existing Electricity Transformers in Respect of Darmanawa Town, Yakasai Shekara (A), Yakasai Shekara (B) and Galinja/Toka Town in Madobi LGCA:Cognizant of the resolve of the present administration in Kano State to rejuvenate all dilapidated infrastructure in the State especially electricity, water supply and road networks explains the reason for this memorandum. The Ministry of Rural and Community Development requested Council to approve the release of the sum of N16,400,922.00 to the Ministry of Rural and Community Development to enable the installation of new transformers in Darmanawa Town, Yakasai Shekara (A), Yakasai Shekara (B) and Galinja/Toka in Madobi Local Government Area. Thus: i.

Yakasai (A) N5,010,337.00 ii.

Yakasai (B) N3,962,829.00 iii.

Darmanawa N5,054,426.00 iv.

Galinja/Toka Town

N2,373,330.00 Total N16, 400,922.00 3.

MINISTRY OF WORKS, HOUSING AND TRANSPORT Of the eight (8) memoranda submitted for deliberation by Council from the Ministry of Works, Housing and Transport five (5) were approved for execution as follows: a.

Presentation of Request for Funds to Enable the Revalidation of Project in Respect of Construction of Karaye – Rogo – Makarfi Road:The Honorable Commissioner for Works, Housing and Transport notified Council through the contents of this memorandum that the contract for the construction of Karaye – Rogo – Makarfi Road was initially awarded to Messrs Triacta Nigeria Ltd by the previous administration in June, 2010. The project is a joint State/Local Government one (State/Karaye/Rogo LGCAs) at a contract sum of N2, 231,486,599.23. This road provides the vitally required link among many important towns in Kano State and between Kano and Kaduna States through Makarfi town – Kaduna State.

The scope of works initially executed by the contractor was appraised by the Ministry of Works, Housing and Transport along with the financial transactions that transpired between the State Government and the Contractor.

Notably, the sum of N246,190,677.02 is still owed the Contractor for valuation certificates number 2 while the total value for the remaining works stands at N1,985,295,922.18, which was negotiated down with a discount of 15% (i.e.

N297,794,388.33) to the tune of N1,687,501,533.86. As such, Council was requested to approve the following two (2) prayers: i.

Settlement of the outstanding payment to the tune of N246,190,677.05 to the Contractor. ii.

Revalidating the project at the discounted sum of N1,687,501,533.85 Total N1,933,192,210.90 Considering the significance of the Karaye – Rogo – Makarfi Road to the Communities in the area, Council approved the execution of the two (2) prayers submitted on the need to revalidate the Contract on the project regarding the construction of the Karaye – Rogo – Makarfi. However, the money is to be sourced by the following arrangement: i.

State Government to provide 50% ii.

Karaye LGCA to provide 25% iii.

Rogo LGCA to provide 25% Contd on Page 9

PEOPLES DAILY, MONDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2013 b.

Request for Funds to Enable Kano Road Maintenance Agency (KARMA) Continue with Routine Roads Maintenance Works:The contents of this memorandum reminded Council of its approval granted for the release of the aggregate sum of N110,000,000.00 to enable KARMA repair machines and equipment (N20,000,000.00) and continue with routine roads maintenance works (N90,000,000.00). This was during its sitting on 24th July, 2013. Details on the routine maintenance works on fourteen (14) of the fifteen (15) roads executed to 100% levels were presented to Council for consideration while the remaining one (1) among the fifteen (15) roads has only 15% work remaining for completion. Again, five (5) of the ten (10) machines/equipment requiring repairs/reactivation were renovated and will soon be put to proper use.

Progressively, KARMA requested Council, through the Ministry of Works, Housing and Transport to approve the release of the aggregate sum of N150,000,000.00 to enable the purchase of five (5) roads construction equipment required for the continuation of routine roads maintenance works. Details were presented to Council for consideration.

Council noted, considered and approved the release of the sum of N90,000,000.00 to the Ministry of Works, Housing and Transport to enable KARMA continue the execution of routine roads maintenance works. c.

Presentation of Proposal and Request for Funds to Enable the Conversion of Burrow Pit to a Viable Fish Pond at Kano State Informatics Institute, Kura:The attentive Council was reminded of its approval for the award of the Contract for the execution of the project in question at the sum of N27,721,915.35 via Council Extract NO. SSCA/CA/EX/I/331 dated 14th May, 2013. Certain exigencies militated against the Contractor to move to site making it expedient for the Ministry of Works, Housing and Transport to appeal to Council to consider re–awarding the contract to another Contractor for speedy execution. Details on the recommended Contractor for the re–award of the contract were presented to Council for consideration. Council deliberated and revoked the initial award and re-awards the project to another contractor at the sum of N27,721,915.35. d.

Presentation of Request for Funds for the Renovation of the Perimeter Wall Fence of Kano Race Course, Nassarawa GRA:This project was awarded some months ago at the sum of N9,809,515.80 and the contractor failed to move to site. Council deliberated the issue and based upon the contents of the memorandum approved the revocation of the contract award and reawarding it to another contractor who is ready to move to site. e.

Request for Funds to Enable the Conversion of the Abandoned Ultra – Modern Women Center at Former NAMA Site to Sports College, Kofar Na’isa:Complying with an Executive directive, the State Ministry of Works, Housing and Transport collaborated with the Special Adviser on Sports to jointly inspect the abandoned Ultra – Modern Women Center at NAMA Site, Kofar Na’isa and assess its suitability for conversion to a Sports College being in close vicinity to the Kano State Sports Complex currently under construction.

The team recommended to Council, through contents of this memorandum that the abandoned Ultra – Modern Women Center will cost the sum of N418,991,510.35 to be converted to the envisaged Sports College. Therefore, the sum was requested for release by Council to enable the State Ministry of Works, Housing and Transport undertake the work through a competent Contractor.

Congruence of the project to the laudable policy of the present administration to empower our teeming unemployed youths, prompted Council to approve the release of the trimmed down sum of N418,991,510.35 to the Ministry of Works, Housing and Transport to enable the execution of the project.

4.

MINISTRY OF INFORMATION, INTERNAL AFFAIRS, YOUTH, SPORTS AND CULTURE Council approved the execution of the two (2) memoranda submitted for deliberation from this Ministry as follows: a.

Request for Funds to Enable Modernizing the State Cultural Troupe:The Honorable Commissioner, Ministry of Information, Internal Affairs, Youths, Sports and Culture amply substantiated to Council the need to modernize the State Cultural troupe, through contents of this memorandum. Details were presented to Council for consideration summarized thus: i.

Production cost of Koroso and Shantu on VCD N1,500,000.00 ii.

Re – production of VCD (10,000 copies) N1,000,000.00 iii.

Provision of costumes and accessories N2,362,500.00 iv.

Choreographic training for the Koroso Troupe at ABU Zaria Department of Theater and Performing Arts N2,070,000.00 v.

ABU Zaria Consultant fee N3,500,000.00 Total N10,432,500.00 As such, Council was requested to approve the release of the aggregate sum of N10,432,500.00 to the Ministry of Information, Internal Affairs, Youths, Sports and Culture to enable the modernization of the State Cultural Troupe.

Council noted, considered and approved the release of the requested sum of N10,432,500.00 to the Ministry of Information, Internal Affairs, Youths, Sports and Culture to enable the modernization of the State Cultural Troupe according to the details presented. b.

Request for Funds to Enable the Procurement and Installation of Two (2) Perkins Model 250KVA Electric Power Generating Sets for Radio Kano:The only Radio Station owned by the State Government is faced with incessant electric power outages from PHCN and has to rely on using standby electric power generators, which are old and cannot stand the constant pressure of working for long hours.

As such, Council was provided with details for consideration on the need to procure and install one (1) 250KVA electric generator at both the Transmission Station at Jogana and Headquarters of the Corporation, at Gidan Bello Dandago. One (1) 250KVA Perkins Model electric power generating set costs N7,600,000.00 making the two (2) to cost N15,200,000.00, which was requested for release by Council.

Considering the significance of the request, Council approved the release of the requested sum of N15,200,000.00 to the Ministry of Information, Internal Affairs, Youths, Sports and Culture to enable the procurement of the two (2) electric generators for installation at the stated sites. The State Ministry of Works, Housing and Transport was directed to co–ordinate the project.

5.

OFFICE OF THE HEAD OF SERVICE Two (2) of the three (3) memoranda submitted for deliberation by Council from the Ministry of Justice were approved for execution as follows: a.

Presentation on Memorandum of Understanding for the Collection of Tourism Development Levy and Systematic Collection of Business Premises Registration Fees:Council recalled that at the last sitting the Kano State Attorney General/ Commissioner for Justice complied with Council’s directive to prepare and submit a Memorandum of Understanding to be signed by the Parties concerned (i.e.

Government and the De Torri Nig. Ltd and Alternative Solutions International Limited) on the collection of Tourism Development Levy and Systematic Collection of Premises Registration Fees.

The two (2) Memoranda of Understanding were prepared and presented to Council for vetting and endorsement. At that sitting, the Committee chaired by the Head of Service was directed to study the memoranda and advise. The Committee submission was the basis for the tabling of this memorandum. Council deliberated on the advise submitted and approved the contents of the two (2) Memoranda of Understanding prepared by the Ministry of Justice for signing. b.

Presentation on the Proposal for the Harmonized Rates and Levies Bill, 2013:At 117th sitting, the State Attorney General/Commissioner for Justice notified Council, through the contents of the memorandum that Local Government Councils in Kano State are currently collecting over two hundred (200) different levies, rates and/ or charges. Most of these collections are illegal, as they have no bases in the Nigerian Constitution. There exists duplicity and multiplicity in the rates and charges thereby confusing and deterring the payers from paying the legal ones among them, which deprives the Local Government Councils from collecting/getting their lawful and

PAGE 9 approved levies, rates and/or charges.

Further, Council was intimated that the LGCs in Nigeria are only entitled to collect levies, charges and/or rates as approved by Joint Task Board in compliance with provision of the 4th Schedule of the 1999 Constitution of the Nigerian Federation.

Harmonization of these collections is paramount according to the Gross and Employment in States (GEMS), a DFID intervention program, which proposed a Uniform Tax Law. This is with a view to improving collection of rates, charges and levies as well as enhancing revenue generation and management in the 44 LGCAs in Kano State.

Specifically, a proposed “Kano State Local Governments Harmonized Rates and Levies Bill 2013” was prepared by the Ministry of Justice and the Committee under the Chairmanship of the Head of Service was directed to study and advise.

The contents of this memorandum was the advice from the Committee that supported the desirability of the proposed Bill for the harmonization of rates and levies as a mean of enhancing the revenue generation drive for the 44 Local Governments in the State. Council appreciatively acknowledged the presentation and approved contents of the Draft Bill thereby directed its transmission to the State House of Assembly for passage into Law. 6.

OFFICE OF THE DEPUTY GOVERNOR/HONORABLE COMMISSIONER, MINISTRY FOR LOCAL GOVERNMENTS Request for Funds to Enable the Provision of Requirements for the Conduct of the Second Cycle of 2013 Mass Literacy Campaign:The Office of the State Deputy Governor/Honorable Commissioner, Ministry for Local Governments substantiated to Council through the contents of this memorandum that Kano State has to actualize achieving its goal of raising Adult Literacy Level from 74.1%, attained after the first cycle of the Mass Literacy Campaign, to 90% by the year 2015. Need to continue with the Mass Literacy Campaign activities is paramount and details of the requirements for the second cycle was presented to Council for consideration along with the financial implications proposed to be jointly sourced by the State and 44 LGCAs in Kano as follows: i.

The 44 LGCAs are to collectively provide the sum of N358,438,360.00 at the disaggregated rate of N8,146,326.00 per Local Government. The money is to be used as follows: • Survey N5,000,000.00 • Procurement of learning materials N49,574,360.00 • Payment of Part – Time allowances N303,864,000.00 Total N358,438,360.00 ii.

The State Government is to provide N66,282,600.00 to cover cost of training, identification exercise, and production of curriculum, public enlightenment activities, and sensitization workshops for stakeholders, provision of vehicles for monitoring general conduct of the program.

Total N424,720,960.00 Council noted, considered and approved the release of the requested sum of N424,720,960.00 jointly by the State and 44 LGCAs as proposed to the Office of the Deputy Governor/Honorable Commissioner, Ministry for Local Governments to enable the conduct of the second cycle of 2013 Mass Literacy Campaign.

7.

MINISTRY OF FINANCE Presentation of the Need to Renew Consultancy Service Provision in Monitoring, Collection of PAYE and Withholding Taxes on behalf of Kano State Government:Kano State Government for the past ten (10) years has engaged Messrs. Olukola Osumbumi and Co. (a Chartered Accountant and Tax Consultants Firm) for the monitoring and collection of PAYE as well as withholding Tax deductions due to the State Government from Federal Institutions, Registrars of Quoted Companies and multinationals outside the State.

The contents of this memorandum alerted Council of the expiration of the agreement signed between the firm and the State Government on 31st August, 2013.

As such, the firm wrote to Government through the Ministry of Finance requesting for the renewal of the agreement/mandate for two (2) years with effect from September, 2013 to 31st August, 2015.

Nevertheless, the Board of Internal Revenue recommended to Council to approve the renewal to subsist for one (1) year (i.e. 1st September, 2013 – 31st August, 2014).

Appreciating the presentation, Council approved as recommended (i.e. the renewal of the agreement to span for one (1) year) and directed that the Consultant should be told to brace up.

8.

MINISTRY OF EDUCATION Presentation of the Need and Request for Funds to Procure and Allocate 610 Desktop and Computers to ten (10) Secondary Schools:Information Communication Technology (ICT) is the vogue and current necessary requirement making it worthwhile to be Computer literate especially for those still in School. This and more made the Ministry of Education to request Council through the contents of this memorandum to approve the release of the aggregate sum of N92,036,490.00 to enable the procurement of (610) Units of Desktop Computers complete with accessories for distribution to ten (10) Secondary Schools selected among 100 earmarked for comprehensive equipping of their Science Laboratories.

The selected Schools include GSS Karaye, GSS Durbunde, GSS Bunkure, GSS Dambatta, GSS D/Tofa, GGSS Kabo, GGSS Unguwar Dabai, GGSS Dakata, GSS K/ Nassarawa and GSS Kwankwaso.

Congruence and relevance of the request to the laudable policy of the present administration prompted Council to approve the release of the requested sum of N92,036,490.00 to the Ministry of Education to enable the purchase of (610) Desktop Computers complete with accessories for distribution to ten (10) Secondary Schools in the State as listed above.

9.

MINISTRY OF WATER RESOURCES One (1) of the two (2) memoranda submitted from this Ministry for deliberation

by Council was approved for execution. Thus: Request for Funds to Enable the Procurement of 3,000 Metric Tons of Aluminium Sulphate (Alum):Aluminium Sulphate (Alum) is required for water treatment and has been provided in the year 2013 appropriation by the State Government. The budget approved the procurement of 6,000 metric tons of the material to meet the consumption requirements of Urban Water Treatment Plants and Semi–Urban Water Supply Schemes.

So far, the sum of N282,000,000.00 was approved and release for the procurement of 3,000 metric tons of alum in March, 2013. Presently, we are in the last quarter of the year 2013, which makes the Ministry of Water Resources to request for the release of funds by Council to enable the procurement of the remaining 3,000 metric tons of alum for the year 2013 in view of the continuous rates/nature of consumption of the material.

Specifically, the sum of N320,000,000.00 was requested and approved for release

by Council to the State Ministry of Water Resources to enable the procurement of 3,000 metric tons of aluminium sulphate (alum) for use at the Urban and Semi – Urban Water Treatment Plants.

10.

MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE AND NATURAL RESOURCES Both memoranda submitted for deliberation by Council from the Ministry of Agriculture and Natural Resources were approved for execution as follows: a.

Request for Funds to Enable Kano State Contingent Participate in the forthcoming National Agricultural Show (21st – 24th October, 2013) at Karu LGCA, Nassarawa State:The Honorable Commissioner, Ministry of Agriculture and Natural Resources reminded Council, through the contents of this memorandum that Kano State came first (1st) among the thirty-six (36) States of the Federation that participated in the National Agricultural Show for the year 2012.

Reflectively, Council was informed that the events that feature at the National Agricultural Show include pre–show dinner, opening ceremony, and show seminar/ symposia. Likewise, Agricultural produce exhibition, interactive session with service providers/investors, agricultural machinery and equipment exhibition, display of new and improved technologies, special days, prize and awards ceremony, etc.

In fact, the show was presented as worthwhile and relevant for the State to participate, which made the State Ministry of Agriculture and Natural Resources

to prepare a budget that informed submission of the request for the release of the aggregate sum of N11,386,000.00 by Council to enable State participation at the 2013 National Agricultural Show.

Council noted, considered and approved the release of the sum of N6,000,000.00 to the State Ministry of Agriculture and Natural Resources to enable the participation of the State contingent at the 2013 National Agricultural Show. b.

Request for Financial Assistance by the State Government to the National Agricultural Foundation of Nigeria:The contents of this memorandum presented the humble request for financial assistance by the State Government from the National Agricultural Foundation of Nigeria. As organizers of the 2013 National Agricultural Show, the Foundation requested for financial assistance to the tune of N10,000,000.00 to enable the staging of a successful show for the year 2013.

The presentation was appreciated by Council as approval was granted for the release of the sum of N6,000,000.00 to the State Ministry of Agriculture and Natural Resources for onward payment to the National Agricultural Foundation as financial assistance towards a successful staging of the 2013 National Agricultural Show.

11.

MINISTRY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY Presentation of Situation Report on Chalk Production per Local Government:The Honorable Commissioner, Ministry of Science and Technology submitted highlights of the situation report on chalk production per LGCA, through the contents of this memorandum for consideration by Council.

Briefly, forty (40) LGCAs except Bagwai, Garun Malam, D/Kudu and Dala participated in the activity turning out 3,350 cartons of chalk valued at the cost of N2,412,000.00 when sold at the projected carton price of N720.00.

Further, Council was informed of the following: i.

Present situation • The two (2) Centers (Rano and Murtala Muhammad Library) are functioning with the participants being productive.

• The Bichi Center stopped production as the Center is currently being used as the Hajj orientation program Center and an alternative venue for the chalk production activity is yet to be provided. ii.

Patronage The participants received patronage from the following: • Alli Safaco • Dala, Garun Malam, D/Kudu and Bagwai LGCAs • Potential in Abubakar Rimi Market iii.

Challenges The participants encountered the following challenges: • Customized cartons of the product sealed with the State Logo “not for sale” defy purchase of the chalk produced by the participants.

• Lack of patronage by LGCAs as production is low.

• The Bichi production Center is yet to be re – activated. iv.

Prospects • The sky is the limit once LGCs purchase the chalk produced by the participants.

Council appreciatively acknowledged the presentation.

12.

MINISTRY OF LAND AND PHYSICAL PLANNING

Only one (1) of the six (6) memoranda submitted for deliberation by Council from this Ministry was approved for execution. Thus: Presentation of the Revalidation of Contract Awarded for the Construction of Shehu Kazaure Road:The contents of this memorandum substantiated to Council that the project for the construction of Shehu Kazaure Road has been completed to 100% level by the Contractor with only retention money yet to be certified pending fulfilment of liability obligation worth N4,409,852.00.

Notably, the defect liability period elapsed making it obligatory for the Contractor to mobilize back to site and to effect repairs on the failed portions on the road before releasing the retention money.

Council noted, considered and approved revalidation of the contract to enable the Contractor to effect all repairs on the failed portions of the road before releasing the approved sum of N4,409,852.00 retention fees.

UPDATE ON ACTIVITIES OF THE 118TH EXCO SITTING 1.

2013 NIGERIAN TELEVISION AUTHORITY ARTS, SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY EXHIBITION IN ABUJA Council delightfully acknowledged the attendance of the Kano State Secondary Schools delegation to this year’s (2013) Exhibition on Arts, Science and Technology held in Abuja. The exhibition is aimed at exposing the students to modern/advanced Arts, Science and Technology. Accordingly, Council urged parents to encourage their children to attend schools for future career development.

2.

PRESENTATION OF AWARDS

Council witnessed the presentation of Awards to Governor Engr. Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso, FNSE as follows: 1.

Award presented by Nigeria Year Book Editorial Board as the pioneer recipient of the 2013 Public Officer of the Year Award for executing meaningful programs & projects thereby earning public trust and confidence.

2.

Award of Excellence from African Center for Supply and Chain for his transparent and conscientious leadership as “Fellow” of the Center.

3.

DONATION OF 200 PIECES OF POS MACHINES BY E-TRANSACT LIMITED TO KANO STATE GOVERNMENT Council was gratified by the donation of 200 pieces of POS machines by E-Transact Ltd. aimed at empowering Youths and Women on cashless policy and Micro-Finance Banking in the State.

4.

FOUNDATION LAYING CEREMONY OF MARIYA SUNUSI DANTATA THEATRE CENTER AT MURTALA MUHAMMAD SPECIALIST HOSPITAL Council acknowledged the foundation laying ceremony of Mariya Sunusi Dantata Theatre Center by Dangote Foundation to compliment her tireless efforts toward assisting the needy especially women and children.

5.

CONDUCT OF MONTHLY SANITATION EXERCISE Council appreciated the successful conduct of the Saturday 28th September, 2013 monthly sanitation exercise during which defaulters were arraigned before a Mobile Court. Council appreciated the cooperation of the citizens.

6.

1st OCTOBER – INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION IN KANO STATE Council extended its profound gratitude to the Almighty Allah for witnessing yet another year that marks the 53rd Anniversary of the Country. Council assured citizens that more projects that are beneficial would be executed in the State.

7.

CONDOLENCE MESSAGE Council sadly acknowledged the death of the Managing Director, Abubakar Rimi Television (ARTV) Late Alhaji Abdurrahman Nuraini. Council commiserated with the bereaved family and the entire citizens of the State/Nation over the irreplaceable loss and prayed to the Almighty Allah to grant the deceased eternal bliss in Jannatul Firdaus.

Signed Hon. Commissioner, Ministry of information, Internal Affair, Youth, Sports & Culture

News

PAGE 10

PEOPLES DAILY, MONDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2013

Delta NSCDC arrests six suspects over child trafficking

From Prince Edward, Asaba

D

etermined to curb the increasing rate of child trafficking in Delta state, operatives of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence alleged have allegedly been recruiting children for the illicit business.

The suspects identified as Godfrey, Paul, Joseph, Evelyn, Amas, (Surnames withheld), the NSCDC boss in the area, Inspector Ukporomo Edewor disclosed, are currently cooling off their heels at the NSCDC office in Asaba.

He said upon interrogation, one of them confessed to the

sin, saying he was sent by his wife to come after three boys who worked for her as scrap scavengers.

The victims, Master Ese Michael (13), Amos James (14), Edewor (15) were said to be indigenes of Ufuoma in Ughelli North, Emevor, Isoko South and Aladja Udu Local Government Area of the state.

The suspects were said to have been arrested by Local vigilante in the area and handed over to NSCDC operatives on Thursday.

Peoples Daily checks revealed that the three victims were allegedly “ferried” from Ughelli to Bomadi where they scoop for scrap metals.

They were quoted as saying; “Our madam gives us transport fare to any part of the state she wants us to go, with little money for feeding, after our day’s work, she will wait for us at the motor park without transport fare to receive us”.

According to the NSCDC

boss, the said wife of one of the suspects, Caro (Surname withheld) allegedly recruited the three boys three months ago into the business and quickly sent her husband (suspect) after them, on realising that her game was up.

Edewor said the victims had

worked over N30, 000 over the last three months, adding that the matter was being investigated, stressing that efforts were made to arrest the suspect’s wife who had been on the run.

Meanwhile, operatives of the NSCDC have uncovered 300 bags of Indian hemp in Umutu community, near Kwale.

The officer in charge in the area, Roland Godwin said the bags were found in a bush path by a group of farmers in the area who alerted officials of the corps who were on routine duty.

Miyetti Allah leadership backs Jonathan’s proposed peace initiative

By Stanley Onyekwere

A

s the proposed national dialogue by President Goodluck Jonathan continues to generate reactions from individuals and interest groups in the country, some leaders of Fulani nationalities under the auspices of Miyetti Allah Kautal Hore Socio Cultural Association, have expressed support for the initiative; as a viable platform for entrenching lasting peace in the country.

Jonathan, who had on the Nigeria’s 53th Independence Day, announced the proposed dialogue, and went further to set up an advisory committee, with a mandate to within a month pave way for the convergence of various ethnic nationalities in the country, to discuss issues currently causing friction in the polity.

Reacting to the development, various national and state leaders of Miyeeti Allah, who spoke to newsmen at the weekend, in Nasarawa state described the initiative as a good step towards promoting peaceful co-existence among the country’s different

nationalities, which the Fulani people will not hesitate to support.

The National President of the association, Alhaji Bello Abdullahi Bodejo, who said the Fulani people are keen of living in peace and harmony with other ethnic nationalities in the country, also added that his people have resolved to support any process towards attaining to lasting peace in the country.

Bodejo said as the leader of the Fulani ethnic nationalities in the country, they are committed to meaningfully and actively participate in the proposed dialogue with good suggestions on how to resolve the lingering challenges threatening the peace, unity and survival of the country.

“We are concerned and disturbed about the recent occurrences especially the increased communal killings and crisis between Fulani herdsmen and farmers across the country, and we (Fulani’s) have resolved to support anybody or process that will bring about lasting peace, unity and progress of the country.

L-R: Acting Secretary, Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Kaduna state branch, Dr Mohammed Khalid; Treasurer, Dr Luwa Sofeme and Chairman, Dr Aliyu Bappa, during the state executive council meeting, yesterday in Kaduna.

Photo: NAN

Police arrest ex-supervisory councilor over stolen goat From Prince Edward, Asaba olice in Asaba, Delta State capital, have arrested a former supervisory councilor for allegedly stealing a “she goat” during Nigeria’s Independence Celebration Day and three others who were also alleged to have stolen ten goats.

Police spokesman in the state, ASP Lucky Uyabeme told newsmen that the former councilor was arrested yesterday after all efforts to bring him to book initially failed.

The councilor (name

withheld) was alleged to have stolen from a neighbour’s house during nightfall on the Independence Eve and had slaughtered it, sharing it among his two wives.

Speaking further, the police spokesman disclosed that the ex-councilor was a member of a popular political party adding that, sources said while he was a councilor; he allegedly rented duplex for his numerous lovers including buying expensive gifts for them.

ASP Uyabeme explained that the suspect upon interrogation at the state CID cell, confessed to the act, saying he was under

pressure from his wives to provide goat meat on the Independence Celebration.

Peoples Daily gathered that the suspect at present occupying 3-bedroom flat along DLA road, in Asaba, is faced with inexplicable difficulties, especially, in his inability to pay his five children school fees all of whom are in private schools.

But ASP Uyabeme said poverty is not an excuse in stealing as the act portends crime punishable by law, pointing out that he would soon be charged to court on completion of investigation.

be contracted to any company.

Therefore, the issue of Messer Drexel Consult conducting examination and the minister of interior insistence to discard the report does not arise”.

On the alleged confrontation between the minister and the former Secretary of the Civil Defence, Immigration Prisons and Fire Service Board, Dr. Attahiru Rufai, leading to the sack of the

later, the statement explained that, “posting of officers in the civil service is a routine exercise that falls within the purview of the Office of the Head of Civil Service of the Federation.

“We wish to place on record that by virtue of the Immigration and Prisons Service Board Act, Cap 12 LFN 2004, the Board is vested with the powers of appointment, promotion and discipline of the

ministry’s paramilitary services.

It was in the exercise of these powers that the Board considered and approved the promotion of deserving officers of the Nigeria Immigration Service that had met the requisite conditions for promotion which include; availability of vacancy, eligibility and passing the promotion examination” the statement explained.

P

Interior ministry denies contracting out promotion exercise

By Tobias Lengnan Dapam

T

he Ministry of Interior has debunked reports that the recent list of promotion of officers of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) was contracted to Messer Drexel Consult.

Peoples Daily had on Wednesday reported that the

exercise was contracted to the firm after which the result was discarded by the Minister of Interior, Comrade Abba Moro, to favour his preferred candidates.

Debunking the report, the ministry, in a statement signed by the Permanent Secretary, Fatima B. A. Bamidele said, “No promotion have been contracted nor are being contemplated to

Money sense

PEOPLES DAILY, MONDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2013

PAGE 11

12 financial nuggets to live by Everyone wants to be financially secure, but only few understand what it takes to attain and live by it for the rest of their lives.

Do you want to be financially secure?

Learn and apply the following tidbits as financial wisdom to live by:

10 If you’re not selfemployed and work for a company, find out if they have a retirement plan.

1 Use the law of supply and demand to your advantage.

The dividing line is whether it puts money in your pocket, or takes it out. As much as you love your home, for instance, it is a liability rather than an asset because you put more money into it than you get out of it (unless you’re flipping it or renting it out). Whatever money you save, invest it in assets such as stocks, mutual funds, patents, and copyrighted works-anything that generates interest or royalties. Eventually, you might get to the point where your assets are doing the work for you, and all you have to do is sit there and make money!

M

ost of us are familiar with the law of supply and demand-the more there is of something, the cheaper it is; conversely, the rarer the product or service, the more expensive it is. However, other than when we get to a toy store before sunrise to get on line for the latest fad toy that kids can’t get enough of, we don’t really apply the law of supply and demand to our own lives-particularly our careers.

For example, if you’re aspiring to do something that many, many other people want to do (so much so that they do it for free, as a hobby) then it will be far more challenging for you to make money doing it. On the other hand, if you do something that most people don’t want to do, or if you get very good at doing something most people don’t do all that well, then you can make a whole lot more money. In other words, choose a career in pharmacy over photography.

2. If your career path is going nowhere, resign gracefully and switch careers.

Research occupations to find out how much they pay and what their future outlook is (for instance, in the U.S., you can find this information in the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook). Find an occupation that pays well, and invest in the education and/ or training to get you that job.

Look for employers that offer competitive salaries and ample opportunity for advancement.

3. If your goal is to make enough money to retire early, prioritize earning potential over job satisfaction, since you plan on getting out of the rat race early, anyway.

Consider the types of jobs that pay extraordinarily well in exchange for hard work, little psychological satisfaction, and a punishing lifestyle, such as

If you’re lucky, employers will sometimes match contributions you make into a retirement fund.

Retirement plans also often have the benefit of being tax-deferred.

The longer you get to keep your money (and make interest on it) the better. It’s never too early to start planning for retirement.

11. Know the difference between an asset and a liability.

investment banking, sales, and engineering. If you can keep your expenses low and do this for about 10 years, you can save a nest egg for a modest but youthful retirement, or to supplement your income while you do something you really love doing but doesn’t pay much.

But keep in mind that delayed gratification requires clear goalsetting and strong willpower.

4 Recognize that time is money.

This critical piece of advice is attributed to Benjamin Franklin, who was an accomplished American inventor, journalist, printer, diplomat, and statesmanthe ultimate multitasker. Your ability to manage your time (and stop procrastinating) is a critical ingredient in your ability to make money. Whether you have a job or are self-employed, keep track of what you’re spending your time on. Ask yourself: “Which of these activities make the most money, and which of them is a waste of time?” Do more of the former and less of the latter, simple as that. When you’re focusing on high-priority tasks, get the job done well, and get the job done fast. By working efficiently, you’re giving your employer or clients more time, and they’ll appreciate you for it.

Remember that time is a limited resource that you’re always investing. Will your investments pay off?

5 Jack up your prices.

If you’re providing a skill, service or product that is in high demand and low supply, and you’re making the most of your time, you should be making good money. Unfortunately, there are many people who are too humble or fearful to demand that they get paid accordingly. It’s the pushovers in life who get taken advantage of and exploited, so if you think you might be one of them; learn how to stop being a people pleaser. If you work for someone else, ask for a pay raise

or get a promotion, and if none of that pans out, revisit your career options as described previously.

If you’re self-employed, the first thing to do is to make sure your customers and clients pay up on time-this alone can substantially improve your income. Check your prices and rates against those of your competitors--are you undercutting them? Why? If you’re providing a superior product or service, you should be getting at least the average, unless your profitability depends on mass production, in which case you’re probably making a lot of money and wouldn’t be reading this article anyway!

6. Be proactive.

Remember Murphy’s Law: “Whatever can go wrong will go wrong.” Make plans, complete with as many calculations as possible, then anticipate everything that can go wrong.

Then make contingency or backup plans for each scenario.

Don’t leave anything to luck. If you’re writing a business plan, for example, do your best to estimate when you’ll break even, then multiply that time frame by three to get a more realistic date; and after you’ve identified all the costs, add 20% to that for costs that will come up that you didn’t anticipate. Your best defense against Murphy’s law is to assume the worst, and brace yourself. An appropriate amount of insurance may be something worth considering. Don’t forget the advice of Louis Pasteur, a French chemist who made several incredible breakthroughs in the causes and prevention of disease: “Luck favours the prepared mind.”

7. Redefine wealth.

In studies of millionaires, people are surprised to learn that most millionaires aren’t doctors, lawyers, and corporate leaders with big houses and fancy cars; they’re people who religiously live below their means and

invest the surplus into assets, rather than liabilities. As you’re taking the above steps to make more money, keep in mind that increased income does not necessarily equal increased wealth. Most people who flaunt their wealth actually have a low net worth because their debt to asset ratio is high-in other words, they owe a whole lot more money than they actually have.

All of the previous steps have outlined aggressive strategies for making money, but you’ll never get anywhere if you have a hole in your pocket.

8. They say that a penny saved is a penny earned.

Actually, when you consider that you pay taxes on every penny you earn, you really do make more money by saving than by increasing your income, especially if the extra income will increase your tax rate dramatically. But when you save some money off of your existing budget, you keep it all.

To sweeten the deal further, if you take advantage of compound interest as found in most savings accounts, over time you’ll start making money on the amount saved plus previous interest paid on that amount saved. It’ll be pennies at first, but eventually the amount will multiply exponentially.

9 Take advantages of tax laws if you’re selfemployed.

Money saved on taxes is still money saved. You may be able to deduct many of your business expenses (use of your home, use of your car, office supplies, etc.) if you keep good records. You may also qualify for tax breaks, such as deducting your health insurance premiums on your tax return. These laws are in place to encourage commerce and business growth, so don’t neglect their benefits especially if you want to make money.

12. Watch out for inflation chipping away at your assets.

We’ve all heard an elderly person describe the purchasing power of a coin in their day.

Inflation continues to make today’s money worth less in the future. To win the race against time and inflation, learn to invest your money in the right places.

A savings account might help you to keep up with inflation; however, to stay ahead of the game you’ll want to invest in bonds, stocks, or some other investment that returns above the prevailing average rate of inflation.

Culled from wikihow.com

www.

Money Tip:

Be trustworthy!

People like to know that whoever’s they are dealing with can be trusted, and they might even be willing to pay extra for that peace of mind. Be fair and honest in all your dealings, and never steal; these qualities will pay off later.

Quote

“A little, justly gained, is better than thousands secured by stealth, or at the expense of another’s rights and interests.”

-from Money for the Millions

PAGE 12

PEOPLES DAILY, MONDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2013

EDITORIAL

he Goodluck Jonathan administration last week announced a “new” national automotive industry policy that is expected to reverse Nigeria’s status as a net importer of cars to that of a producer over a 10-year period. If (a big “if”) that happens, we will be able to stop the depletion of the nation’s foreign reserve by car imports.

According to trade and investment minister, Mr. Olusegun Aganga, cars worth $4.2 billion were imported into the country in 2010; two years later, imports went down slightly to $3.4 billion but still significant enough to bother the government. “Car imports are almost head-to-head with machinery as the biggest consumer of our foreign reserve,” the minister told journalists after a federal executive council meeting that approved the automotive industry policy.

Under the policy, “automotive clusters” will be set up in three parts of the country -Ogun and Lagos states, Kano and Kaduna states and Enugu and Anambra states – to “reduce the cost of investments and production”.

The policy, the minister said, is the collaborative effort of the Nigerian Automotive Council (NAC) and foreign car producers like Toyota, Nissan and Honda. It took them nine months to produce the draft policy but just one FEC meeting, presided over by President Jonathan, to endorse a policy that will have a telling effect on the livelihood and lifestyles of millions of middle class citizens.

As always, this policy is long on goals or intentions but most Nigerians are not carried away by these. Reading between the lines, they know that the ultimate goal is to stop fairly used cars from being brought into the country.

The protests that have greeted the

government’s move against “tokunbo” cars have only been surpassed by the public anger provoked by the government’s fuel subsidy removal in 2012. Eddy Okorie, Chief Executive Officer of Eddyson Dealership Ltd, is skeptical of the workability of the policy.

He asked: “In a country where we cannot manufacture even an ordinary tyre, you are talking about an auto assembly plant.

Even if you want to, why don’t you set up the plant first and see how it works?

How many Nigerians can even afford a

“

T

Tokunbo cars: Banned, unbanned, banned again

Let tokunbo be until when the government wants to be taken seriously. new car?” .

Mufutau Egberongbe,a member of the Lagos state House of Assembly, explains why tokunbo cars have become popular in this country. “In a country where the government has failed to provide mass transit scheme, cheap rail and water transportation, the people would create alternatives for themselves and this is why they get the tokunbo cars that are even not for the masses.

A very good tokunbo car costs at least a million naira. How many Nigerians can afford that? Even if the government has promised the establishment of assembly plants, has it considered the environment? Can such a plant be established without power?”Bamidele Aturu, a human rights lawyer, thinks the policy is a huge joke. “If you are going to ask people to come and invest in the automobile industry, what is your environment like? This whole thing sounds like a joke”.

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

The cynicism of the Nigerian public is understandable. We have walked this path before. A plan to produce the first truly Nigerian car has remained on the drawing board for over 30 years now. The first set of automobile assembly plants (not real production lines) was started in the late 1970s by the military administration of Gen. Olusegun Obasanjo; forty years on, the plants have gone quiet. The same Obasanjo, as an elected president, in January 2002, placed a ban on tokunbo vehicles five years old after date of manufacture to “promote investment in local production”.

Almost immediately, however, the ban was lifted due to public outcry. That was because the government then put the cart before the horse instead of behind it. It is the same mistake the Jonathan government is making, 11 years after.

Another weakness of the policy is that importation of clothing erodes the foreign reserve as much as secondhand cars, if not more. The value of imported clothes has been conservatively put at over $3 billion annually, this for a consumable for which local production capacity already exists. Nobody is talking about banning foreign fabrics.

Furthermore, if government is sincere about cutting costs, how about a ban on frivolous overseas trips by officials and their hangers-on?

Government says it will get banks to lend money to working Nigerians to buy new cars when the tokunbo car ban takes effect. Easier said than done.

What is the banks’ lending portfolio to agriculture, a commanding height of the economy, for example? Almost nil.

Let tokunbo be until when the government wants to be taken seriously.

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PEOPLES DAILY, MONDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2013

PAGE 13

Opinion

Nigeria: Between nostalgia and nirvana

By Chidi Anselm Odinkalu

T

oday, Nigerians have no expectations of those in power, our country struggles to compete in the world and our institutions are ill-equipped apply our rules properly or call to order those who do not wish us well.

In theory, we were supposed to achieve better governance through de-centralisation. So, in 1967, we began creating of states. The problem was that the impetus for state creation was not decentralisation or better governance but narrow reasons of regime security with little consideration for governance.

The three regions of Nigeria at Independence were each considered too powerful. We wanted to ensure that no sub-unit would be strong enough again ever to challenge the country to a wrestling match like Biafra attempted in 1967-1970. The last act of State creation by General Abacha in 1996, therefore, essentially dismembered the last significant sub-unit in Nigeria – the Sokoto Emirate – into three States (Kebbi, Sokoto and Zamfara).

Meanwhile, in 1976, local government reform brought an additional level of government.

Today, we have one Federal Capital Territory, 36 States, and 774 Local Governments, each with its own machinery of administration. For electoral administration, we have an additional 8,100 wards.

State creation has created a growth industry in navel-gazing public officers whose preoccupation seems to be leeching on the State.

Members of Parliament, Cabinet officers, permanent secretaries, advisers, their wives, husbands, spouses, and sundry hangers on all deserve and desire their own perks, perquisites, and retinues to be paid for, of course, by public

appropriations.

Each also desires to bring to their own networks, the benefits of propinquity to power. More cars are bought so that each can employ a driver or nanny from their village.

And openings must be created in the public service so that they can ensure the next State employee is from the same place too. If teachers are to be hired, it can only be by allocation to the god-father of those in power and its bedrooms. So too with hiring nurses and doctors.

Surely, why should we start applying any rules only when it comes to our own turn to chop?

With about 71% of the public appropriations at the federal level currently devoted to servicing recurrent expenditure, the cost of running the public sector has bloated by nearly 25 percentage points in the less than one and a half decades. Unsurprisingly, therefore, the public service is not public and hardly renders service. The only reason it exists is to provide the needs of those who work in it and alleviate poverty among their kinsfolk.

An increasingly incapacitated state suffers under the weight of its natural responsibilities. The result is frightening growth in different forms of retail, wholesale and spectacular violence across the country: domestic violence is on the increase; commercial kidnapping is booming; electoral violence is a given; inter-community and ethnic violence seems to be the default for settling disputes across communities; improvised explosive devices (IEDs) are in the hands of extremists who kill en masse the name of hate; and vigilantism seems to be the preferred law enforcement method with support of a vast majority of Nigeria’s communities. We have de-centralised despotism.

Sheikh Lemu had also foretold

in 2011 that “the past decade has seen an unprecedented escalation of communal violence in various parts of the federation, especially in the northern part, which is virtually becoming the epicentre of the gravest form….Something must be done to stem this trend otherwise it will breed a balance of terror between groups hiding under different togas….It is fast becoming one of sustaining a mutual balance of terror between different groups in Nigeria.”

For this epidemic of violence, we seem to have developed no antidote. On the contrary, most involved in it seem assured of impunity while those politicians who plunder us enjoy immunity.

The criminal justice system and legal process cannot be trusted to bring to account those who do this. Rather, the legal process often facilitates these crimes against collective patrimony. This guarantees that new fronts of violence are opened with each new day.

As the country prepares for potentially explosive elections in 2015, victory seems assured to any party that will beat the rest in the competition to frighten the country the most or unleash the most violence. National co-existence is deeply frayed. Two years ago, the Sheikh Lemu Panel summarized the state of the country in an anguished three-word lamentation: “Nigeria has regressed”!around the country, true Nigerians are an endangered minority. The only places that you are likely to find any Nigerians anymore are in the immigration terminals of foreign airports. Back here, everyone seeks to be anything – ethnic merchant, sectarian bigot, militant, bomber, online irredentist, and a chief-witha-cap – everything other than a Nigerian. We cannot be Nigerian, we are told, without being one of

these.

Yet, we can and, to overcome our present difficulties as a people, we must. For we can come from one part of Nigeria and recognize that no one part of the country has a monopoly of good or bad.

We can seek development in one part without any need to feel that it must come at the expense of impoverishing other parts; we can worship God the way we choose without the need to believe that God needs any of us to protect Him; and we can wish the country well without any need to claim a monopoly of patriotism.

The founding leaders of our country had mutual respect for one another and for the diverse peoples of this land. They were not thieves.

They undertook public service without amassing wealth or making grand larceny a directive principle of state policy. Indeed, many of them died without homes of their own. Such was their abiding faith in the goodness of this land.

On most of these scores, many of the people who occupy position of public trust today mostly seem to take a contrary view. Competitive narrowness is the name of the game and the public purse exists to service private whims.

Development is no longer the priority or business of governance.

In every sector – education to health; security to environment – we struggle to assemble credible indices of betterment.

Yet, with munificent new sources of energy now emerging around the world, the assumption that underpinned Nigeria’s political economy – that we could always binge or rely on free money from the sale of hydrocarbons – is about to be unscrambled.2.But this is not such a bad thing. On the contrary, the possible death of assured oil money is the reason I remain optimistic about Nigeria. It could

not come soon enough.

The death of oil will free us up to discover the capabilities and innate wealth of different parts of Nigeria and compel us to exploit and develop them. It will also mean the death of the political economy of allocation and contractocracy.

It will compel leaders to invest in the skills of their youths and to see their people as assets. It will also enable us to return to harnessing the fertility in our lands and processing them to feed our people.

If fat and failed politicians do not have to converge in Abuja every month to share money whose provenance they are not interested in, they will have little option than to stay home among their people and raise the revenues they need to justify their existence. Despite the difficulties, therefore, we cannot give up hope or walk out on the country. Despite the challenges, civilian government is here to stay.

It is our place to make it work better for the people.

For the politicians who seek to lead this country over the next half century, the question is whether they will see these challenges as opportunities to be seized or whether they will continue to do business as usual. Those who choose the latter may find that they force a premature sun-set upon the country and may have the misfortune of paying a supreme sacrifice for this kind of avoidable folly. For those who recognize the new opportunities, this dangerous new world is an exciting one too and offers a brave path to a new Nigerian century. On the occasion of the 53rd Independence anniversary, my only prayer is for leaders willing to seize it and for citizens able to see it.

has been ‘postponed,’ ostensibly because their participants would by then be engaged in the ongoing Hajj rituals in Saudi Arabia. Actually, by next Monday Hajj flights may not have been concluded and Arafat Day would be at least eight days away.

Under the circumstances, it seems the PDP leadership has resolved to dispense with the G-7 governors whose support they think is no longer needed to win the presidential election in 2015.

That means the governors will either have to swallow their pride and return to the PDP despite the humiliation or move on and join one or two of the three newly registered parties, i.e. APC, PDM and VOP. All Progressives Congress (APC) appears to be the most attractive bride to the governors.

Already, Rivers state Governor Chibuike Amaechi and his supporters are reported to be getting set to join the party any time soon. APC itself has shown signs of its readiness to welcome the rebellious governors with open arms. But has its leaders thought seriously about the implications of doing so? Would the party not be giving the wrong impression that all it cares about is to come to power without minding whether the means justifies the end?

It must not be lost on the party’s leaders that they had assured Nigerians that one of the fundamental reasons for the merger of the opposition parties was to provide a credible alternative government that would save the country from doom. They also pointed out that as a viable alternative they would be distinct in orientation and content, with some people even suggesting that corrupt politicians should not be accepted as members. The party also pledged to adopt ‘welfare’ as one of the major thrusts of its government, and I suppose PDP type of politicians are more concerned about elite issues.

In that case, therefore, will the APC not be smearing its image if it allows leading members of the PDP to be associated with it? There is nothing wrong in seeking the support of ordinary members of other parties in order to win elections, but certainly having prominent faces that have been linked with all that is wrong with the PDP negates the claim to being distinct in content and character.

What is more it will create problems in some states more than what is already on ground presently; that of fusing the supporters of the three or four parties that have merged to

form APC. As supporters of these parties try to reconcile and harmonize their divergent interests sacrifices will have to be made that would be very hard on some people. To bring in a governor from outside the merger with all his supporters and resources is to compound the situation further with dire consequences for the party.

There is currently high tension already in some states, as some naive leaders of APC have reportedly been holding nocturnal meetings with G-7 governors with alleged intent of harming certain interests of those already in the party. By the time the discord they are now sowing germinates and grows to monumental proportions these leaders should know that it may consume their personal ambitions as well as that of APC to replace the PDP in 2015.

Without doubt, the generally assumed purity of the APC can only be claimed by its leaders if it is not associated in any way with PDP. Atiku Abubakar and his fellow travellers already have fallback platforms in the PDM and VOP, which they had registered before summoning the courage to confront their party. If the APC thinks that it cannot succeed in the elections without bringing in top shots from other parties

it is hereby advised to opt for an alliance instead. In this way, it may not unnecessarily soil its image, harm the party’s support base and squander the goodwill of the people.

The purity of the APC is indeed a reputation that must be preserved and protected at all cost. It came about as a result of the confidence the people have in it as they view the party as an alternative to the ruling party that has been in power for so long but has very little to show for it. It therefore behoves these leaders to jealously protect the positive perception people have of APC from the blemish of discredited politicians. If the party’s leaders allow it to be toyed with by vengeful and inexperienced politicians they may be failing in their bounden duty to save Nigeria from a cabal of economic leeches that have been ruining the country. The order by the party for APC governors to woo the G-7 governors during meetings of Governor Amaechi’s faction of the Nigerian Governors Forum is therefore uncalled for as it is counterproductive.

Ado Umar Mohammed via aumo21@yahoo.com.

G-7 and ‘purity’ of APC

By Ado Umar Mohammed

F

rom all indications, the socalled G-7 governors who have rebelled against the mainstream Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) will soon have to look for new political platform(s) on which to ply their trade. This is because, among other things, the move by President Goodluck Jonathan to thaw relations with them is reportedly being discouraged by some of his close associates. The G-7 governors broke away and formed what they call ‘New PDP,’ led by former vicepresident Atiku Abubakar with the apparent backing of ex-president Olusegun Obasanjo. After several meetings with the president the governors themselves have since realized that some people around him do not want the reconciliation move to succeed. The reports said the president’s advisers had indeed told him to stop wasting his time with the governors because they are allegedly championing their own personal interests and not the interest of the people.

And so the meeting scheduled for October 7, 2013 may have therefore been cancelled.

Spokesman of the New PDP, Eze Chukwuemeka, confirmed last Wednesday that the meeting

Chidi Odinkalu is Chairman, Nigerian Human Rights Commission, Abuja.

PAGE 14

Opinion

By Julius Ogar

B

illboards are a very important medium for the advertising industry. Blue chip companies, multinationals and even emerging brands use billboards to display their products and force them on the consciousness of consumers.

Electronic billboards can even be used to a more dramatic effect, aesthetically displaying not just one but series of products and messages from sundry advertisers for the attention of the public.

Overtime, the billboard has also lent itself for use by politicians as a campaign platform. As is wont in Nigeria, however, the medium is being abused. It is no longer a mere campaign platform, but has become some kind of beacon with which politicians, especially state governors, mark their territories. Like warlords establishing dominion in conquered and subjugated domains, they erect giant-sized billboards indiscriminately across the landscape.

In Abuja, touted as one of the world’s best cities, these conquering political billboards are eyesores. Ugly, loud, and morbidly sycophantic, they pop up here and there telling stories that need no telling. Rather than any positive message however, they are always a sad reminder of the failure of governance and government. In many, if not all cases, the messages are a direct contradiction to what obtains in reality.

To any thoughtful person,

By Rogers Edor Ochela

A

ll he ever wanted to do in life was to make a difference in other people’s lives. As a child, he thought the only way to accomplish this was to engage in a vocation where his impact would be most felt.

Some decades later, Senator Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed, the incumbent Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) is doing what he always wanted to do---serve. Bala is a politician who has overcome all manner of obstacles ranged on his path.

People have criticized his guts and sometimes daring political manoeuvres, but he has the knack for succeeding in virtually all enterprises he has embarked upon in life.

In his life story, few people erroneously tend to view it as if he employed underhand tactics to achieve them and in the process underestimate his Midas touch.

The fact remains that he attained his present height through hard work and moral rectitude. In the lives of many, birthdays are usually periods for sober reflections. They are periods for stocktaking. Numerous personalities with eyes on the verdict of history usually use such occasions to reflect on their contributions to the upliftment or otherwise of their societies. For Sen. Bala Mohammed, he would have wished that the occasion of his 55th Birthday anniversary on 05th October, 2013 be observed silently in strict compliance with

PEOPLES DAILY, MONDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2013

Governance by billboards

can assume they exhibit that these our politicians’ billboards penchant for are erected at misplacement Peoples Daily welcomes your letters, opinion articles, no personal of priorities. text messages and ‘pictures of yesteryears.’ All written cost to the They leave contributions should be concise. Word limits: Letters lords who are this disgusting proclaiming feeling that - 150 words, Articles - 750 words. Please include your their someone name and a valid location. Letters to the Editor should be kingdoms. somewhere addressed to: It must be, thinks that and cannot transformation The Editor, be anything (for instance) other than is taking place Peoples Daily, 1st Floor Peace Plaza, public money because T-R35 Ajose Adeogun Street, Utako, Abuja.

– which in A-N-S-F-O-REmail: opinion@peoplesdailyng.com Nigeria is M-A-T-I-O-N no different A-G-E-N-D-A from slush has been written funds. One out colourfully sheltering under the genial on a billboard. A governor protection of his boss straddling just wonders how much in contract sums such useless or commissioner in some the FCT landscape. billboards would cost the tax backwater state comes away It must have been under payer, when essential needs imagining that a billboard such a rabid, perhaps drunken such as health, education and picturing the governor in a delusion, that Governor electricity are poorly attended classroom somehow improves Godswill Akpabio of Akwa Ibom to. The Transformation Agenda the educational standard among State compared Abuja with which is not seen in housing, the people.

Dubai and New York. Maybe he education, health, security, A city like Abuja – with has seen similar billboards of and general wellbeing of burgeoning slums, chaotic President Barak Obama in New transport system, unstable York, or those of the Emir of the the citizenry is there on the billboards. The transformation electricity supply, near zero United Arab Emirates in Dubai message stands there in the rain urban water supply system, and rightly thinks it is time we and in the sun; before the four rowdy street trading, poor emulated those countries in winds; 365 days, 24/7 – DOING waste management amongst lying, grovelling sycophancy PRACTICALLY NOTHING, other detractions is going and political bootlicking. other than spoiling the pimples into the sickening delusion of Whatever the case, the fact on Abuja’s face. our politicians as the peer of remains that Nigeria’s capital In Niger State for instance, London, New York, Shanghai, is being defaced with useless it is not too much of an Tokyo and others. And for billboards uncharacteristic of exaggeration to state that me, there is no better proof major cities of the world where there are more billboards of of this delusion than the governance and development the governor than there are “transformation” billboards are serious business. Without road signs. In other states, with the FCT minister’s picture proof but with little doubt, one

as well, governors prop up these looming signs at every convenient space in a paradoxical demonstration of their incompetence – yet a metaphorical allusion to their superlative egos – shouting to the world and to their mostly illiterate citizens that this is where they hold sway – the difference with a gangster’s graffiti being only the size and colours of the boards.

This archaic form of propaganda is meant to insist that the rulers are working at their utmost best when the people know very well that they are not. Thus the Minister of Information (plus Defence) would embark of a nationwide jamboree cleverly called “Good Governance Tour” with the ever “loyal” NTA and Radio Nigeria crews in tow to insist that the government is building infrastructure and developing the economy when the ordinary people know that this is a farce.

Obafemi Awolowo never proclaimed free education for the people of his region on a billboard; it was a functional state policy. Obama is not proclaiming healthcare for American citizens on billboards.

He is engaging the legislature positively to make this lofty dream become an enduring state policy. In many African countries billboards just serve for campaigns and elections. So what examples are we following, and if these are not examples, why must we always set the wrong precepts?

Julius Ogar is a former Peoples Daily News Editor

his natural inclination as an introvert.

Born of a humble background in Duguri town in Alkaleri Local Government Area of Bauchi State on 5th October, 1958, Bala is a salt of sorts—inspirational and distinguished. He had his early education at Duguri Primary School, Bauchi (1965 to 1971) from where he obtained his First School Leaving Certificate.

More than anything else, Bala’s exceptional brilliance at those formative years set him apart from his peers. Like other men who knew what they wanted in life, Bala was focussed, without allowing himself to be drawn back by his humble background.

The effect of his early desire for success also became manifestly obvious when his thirst for more academic laurel found expression at the Government Secondary School, Bauchi (1972 to 1976) where he passed his WASCE. He later proceeded to North-East College of Arts and Science (1977—1979) to obtain an Advanced Level Certificate.

Thereafter, in 1979, he was at the University of Maiduguri where he graduated in 1982 with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in English Language.

In 1988, he went to the prestigious Administrative Staff College of Nigeria (ASCON), Lagos for a general management course in capacity

modal land transportation and the transport policy banning ‘Araba’ from within the city centre; tackling of traffic snarl in the city centre; addressing of environmental challenges through prompt waste disposal and clearance of beggars from the streets; extension of mass housing estates to the area councils.

It is to the minister’s eternal credit that his principal, President Jonathan and other Abuja residents can now sleep with both eyes closed, a function of synergy the FCT Administration under his leadership has been able to forge with all security agencies.

And that is not all. He has also succeeded to a considerable extent in enforcing Abuja’s Master plan; raised the Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) profile of the FCT; attracted foreign investors in the expansion of the $700million Abuja Botanical Gardens and Parks. Above all, the most audacious of the minister’s achievements is the introduction of Land Swap Policy aimed primarily at accelerating the infrastructural development of the FCT. It entails giving lands to private investors.

It is simply impossible to hate him. I join millions of other Nigerians to wish him a happy birthday and wonderful returns on this occasion of his 55th birthday anniversary.

Deacon Rogers Ochela is a media consultant based in Abuja.

WRITE TO US

Garlands for a minister @ 55 building training and was given a certificate of Purchase and Supplies. After a stint in journalism, he branched off to the civil service where he eventually got employed as an Administrative Officer with the Federal Ministry of Internal Affairs, Abuja in 1984; Principal Administrative Officer in Cabinet Secretariat of the Presidency in 1994; Chief Supplies Officer, Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals (1996-1997); Assistant Director, Federal Ministry of Power and Steel in 1997 and Deputy Director/Special Assistant to the Minister, Federal Ministry of Transport (19992003). He was later promoted to the position of Director of Administration, Nigerian Railway Corporation in 2003; Special Assistant to the Minister of Aviation. Subsequently, he became the Director of Administration and Supplies, Nigerian Meteorological Agency.

Bala entered into hurly-burly world of politics in 2007 when he contested and won election as a Senator representing Bauchi South Senatorial District. In 2010, he appointed as the Honourable Minister of FCT by President Goodluck Jonathan. As a minister, Bala, on assumption of office in 2010, immediately hit the ground running. As one of the most legitimatizing factors in the Jonathan administration, the

first thing he did was to break the vicious cartel of land racketeering by placing an embargo on land sales. He quickly followed it up by sacking the Director of Lands and Registrar of Deeds and instituted a probe into the activities of AGIS, a development that helped restored sanity to the hitherto corruption-ridden AGIS. Using the Senator Saidu Dansandau Committee’s report as a handmaiden, the minister was able to upgrade and reposition land administration.

Equally worthy of mention is the removal of illegal structures and frontal attack on prostitution, which has improved the ascetic beauty of Abuja.

Another achievement of the minister was the review of the concessioning of Eagle Square and International Conference Centre to private facility managers that were initially fraught with security implications. In terms of road construction, the minister in the last two years has accelerated the development of the FCT through construction of Flyovers; expansion of Airport Road; Zuba/ Kubwa/Tipper Garage from two to ten lanes; provision of sewages and infrastructural facilities like the on-going multi-billion naira Katampe Infrastructure Concession; introduction of a Comprehensive transportation policy premised on multi-

PEOPLES DAILY, MONDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2013

By Bukar Ibrahim

T

here is indeed hope for our youths as future leaders.

This topic wouldn’t have come at the more appropriate time than now when there are so many social vices and challenges confronting the youths, which really needs to be addressed. According to the Oxford Advanced Learners Dictionary, the word ‘’Youth’’ has been defined in various ways. ‘’The time of life when a person considers himself as young, especially the time before the child becomes an adult; ‘’Young people considered as a group’’….

Youth therefore is young, able and an upcoming group of people.

The youths of today are supposed to be the leaders of tomorrow. The youthful age is a very important stage in the life of an individual full of energy, ideas, zeal to work, etc. There

By Peregrino Brimah

A

responsible government gives incentives to potential manufacturers to encourage them to venture into valuable and competitive production. Not Nigeria.

In Nigeria the government compresses the masses and phases out the middle class to entice the cabal and potential investors in the cabal’s firms.

Effectively creating an elite monopoly who, unregulated can and will then take advantage of the oligopoly to peg prices for equal or substandard goods at prices or costs as high as they choose. This is an ‘enticement’ system.

In enticing the oligopolists, the government either purposefully allows the dilapidation of federal government industries, to encourage and assist the cabal establish with guarantees of insane profits; or the government as is in this case and in the case of the Nigerian cement industry, bans importation by competitors, raises tariffs or ‘removes subsidies’ to forcefully entice the cabal into venturing into manufacture while simultaneously shooting up the worth of their investment value.

Nigeria’s run-down oil refineries and the sprouting of a Dangote refinery is an example of this in action.

Taking Nigeria’s cement case as a study example, with the Obasanjo, Yar’adua and Jonathan governments supporting the extinction of all medium and large competitors and importers of cement, a cabal of note, Dangote has been assisted to rise to a status of global wealth recognition, via monopolizing the market, fixing the price and selling 87% of Nigeria’s cement for construction at about double the global mean, as elaborated in recent newspaper articles. The reward for the government for sabotaging and selling the people

Comment

Youths as future leaders is no doubt the reason youths choose to use their energy to use their perpetrate negative acts; the result is usually devastating. Take a good look at the Boko Haram insurgency in the northern Nigeria making headline in world news; the key actors doing the dirty job are the youths. The innocent ones are brainwashed into thinking there were fighting a just cause by the so-called elders in the society, unknown to them that they were being used for their selfish interest only to be dumped later.

In our country today, the voices of the youths is no longer heard when it comes to national issues. The Nigerian youths are no longer given the chance to do any major thing; it is very rare to find major political

positions headed by people less than 35years of age. Most youths in the society at 40 are still struggling to make living in their life. Our elders have totally forgotten ‘’the young shall grow’’ concept.

The energy of the youth is diverted into helping big politicians to stuff ballot boxes thuggery, armed robbery, kidnapping, and all sorts of negative things in the society.

The painful thing is that some of them can get away with these by building houses or driving flashy cars at the expense of other youths who do not indulge in these negative acts. This is one of the major reasons youths are looking for alternative ways of making a living since the ideal door has been shut against them.

They go into fraudulent practices like stealing, robbery and ones that can find their ways to go foreign lands.

The educational system is another major problem; the educational system is so bad that even graduates from higher institutions do not have confidence in themselves. Now that the youths can be channelled as a resource into developing the economy, the elders refuse to retire and they go about swearing affidavits of age; they get younger in figures but not in appearance.

Others are busy employing ghosts as workers, hence killing the economy for their own greed.

I begin to wonder where they conduct interviews for the ghosts, cemetery or mortuary? Only God in Heaven knows!

Nigeria gifted to a cabal to the oligopolists, in terms of campaign sponsorship and other financial returns is well known and documented. Just like democracy, privatization is only useful and good when it is regulated by responsible authority. Otherwise, it becomes the worst tool of suppression and oppression.

It is not by force we manufacture. What people need for growth in a globalvillage new market, is the most competitive price for quality product. Nigeria only needs to manufacture what it has a comparative advantage over.

In any case, all players should have a level playing field. The cabal and small businesses have similar set-up and running challenges. The government must encourage all industries equally or encourage none. If the price for electricity makes us pay twice the global mean for the product, then we would rather import it. In any case, this is not the case with Nigeria’s cement monopoly…as the outrageous quarterly profits of the company go to show.

Development can only be achieved by promoting healthy competition in Nigeria. The US manufactures Apple… in China.

The US however allows healthy competition with other computer and telephone manufacturers.

Apple products stand out by public appeal and quality of product and are not enforced on the people. This is how citizens who are respected and valued are treated. Whatever Apple must do to keep its cost competitive, even if this includes manufacturing abroad and importing—as they currently do—they must do, and they do. The market is free and fair, and the government does NOT force US products on the people and at prices chosen by the manufacturers.

Not too long ago, US car

manufacturers faced bankruptcy compounded by steep competition from Japanese cars.

A bailout plan was initiated to assist the US manufacturers.

They were also sent to the drawing board to ensure that their cars were redesigned to compete with Japanese cars. GM rose to the task and made new cars that had record sales. This is the business model employed by the developed world. We realize that labour is cheaper in Japan, however the more expensive labour in USA did not make the US government enforce a monopoly in favour of US manufacturers by banning importation of Japanese and German cars as Nigeria does with Cement and proposes with cars. With the Jonathan administration proposing a Tokunbo car ban, their intention is clear as is their impetus.

Tokunbo cars, a 3 billion dollar industry, offered great promise. Elizade Motors, Nigeria’s Toyota supplier has always lobbied for the Federal Government (FG) to raise tariffs on importation of Tokunbo and new vehicles. The FG has done

“

PAGE 15

so, yet, despite this, imported new Toyota cars still sell in Nigeria for much less than the price offered by Nigeria’s Toyota, and are of better quality. A 2014 Toyota sells to the US customer for $20,000. All importation costs including the import duty of up to $10,000 added, this car still sells in Nigeria for up to $10,000 less than Nigeria’s Toyota sells it. The US spec. car is also of better standard and quality than the ‘Dubai’ version that Nigeria Toyota sells to its people. It beats the imagination why Nigeria will not look for means of protecting its people and promoting indigenous sale and manufacture by supporting and regulating the indigenous process, but rather seeks to destroy the remaining small businesses and further impoverish the masses, while enticing and supporting a handful of oligopolists to billionairedom.

There are industries where a wise government can ban importation at this time that will prove useful and beneficial to the Nigerian economy. Nigeria spends more than the 3 billion

Tokunbo cars, a 3 billion dollar industry, offered great promise. Elizade Motors, Nigeria’s Toyota supplier has always lobbied for the Federal Government (FG) to raise tariffs on importation of Tokunbo and new vehicles. The FG has done so, yet, despite this, imported new Toyota cars still sell in Nigeria for much less than the price offered by Nigeria’s Toyota, and are of better quality

If the youths are considered in the forefront of the nation, then there will be hope for the Nigerian economy. There is much hope, strength and energy in the youths. We shall not allow these resources to waste as it is part of the blessings God has given to us. For those that have been amassing wealth meant for the betterment of the society to themselves should stop because their children cannot use it and also remember one day, they will surely account for what they have done in front of God almighty.

They should remember as soon as they die, all that they have gathered and stolen will not be buried with them; rather, they will be used by others without consideration. Their children cannot actually use it because there is no structure that shows how the wealth was made nor how it will be utilized; hence, majority of it will be wasted while some will be stolen. dollars spent importing Tokunbo cars, importing foreign clothes.

Nigeria has tons of available small and medium scale clothing industries. Manufacture of this already exists and can benefit from government encouragement. This however is a competitive and open industry and not one the cabal can monopolize. It is not surprising that the ban on this importation is not taken serious. From an economist point of view, a total and harsh ban on the importation of pre-made clothes would be the next best step to boosting Nigeria’s economy. It will also aid the development of the fashion and clothing industry to a level of rewarding exportation.

And then, if unnecessary bans are necessary, then how about a ban on frivolous travel with hundreds of unnecessary escorts, aids and accomplices by top government officials?

How about a ban on government officials travelling abroad for checkups and medical emergencies? Would these not save the nation much of its valuable foreign reserves?

How about a ban on the cabal, shipping millions of dollars abroad to invest in London, Dubai and the USA? Does this administration take us to be fools, who believe that Ibori, caught and dealt with seriously by the UK, is the ONLY thief we have? And then, lastly, how about a ban on government stupidity? From the public reaction to the ban, I am convinced that this is dead on arrival. In the event that the government further wastes our time keeping this nonsense alive and distracts us from the emergency crises of our roads, education sector, security and other pressing matters. I am sure Nigerians will take to the streets. And this time, Nigerians will perhaps not aim only for the reverse-it mark.

Dr. Peregrino Brimah via

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PEOPLES DAILY, MONDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2013

Residents bemoan state of social amenities in Bwari

By Usman Shu’aibu

R

esidents of Bwari Area Council in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have expressed concern over the lack of social amenities in the area.

A cross-section of the residents interviewed in Bwari urged the chairman of the area council, Hon. Peter Yohanna Ushafa to expedite action in providing basic necessities of life for the inhabitants.

They complained of inadequate supply of electricity, which according to them, had paralyzed the business activities of the people in the area for so long.

One of the residents, who sought anonymity, told Peoples Daily that inadequate supply of electricity was the biggest challenge facing them.

Another resident, Mrs. Cecilia Adebayo, stressed the need for an interactive forum, to enable the chairman to know the obstacles confronting the residents in their various domains.

She called on the chairman to deem it necessary to visit the ten wards of the area council to ascertain the level of deplorable state of the infrastructural facilities.

A trader, Miss Afiong Umoh, appealed to the council chairman to provide potable drinking water for the people of the area.

She further called on the chairman to drill boreholes in Bwari and its environs, to arrest the shortage of water during the dry season.

“I want the government of Bwari Area Council to always

Dilapidated Pyiwe road in Bwari

focus on the development of the area”, Umoh said.

Some of the Ushafa residents who spoke to Peoples Daily urged the chairman to take a very high premium on all matters that concern the welfare of the electorate in the area.

They asked the chairman to devote his time to improve the socio-economic development of the area, noting that most of the roads in Ushafa were bad.

A yam farmer at Ushafa, Mr. Musa Iliyasu, urged the chairman to rehabilitate the rural roads so as to enable the farmers transport their farm produce to urban areas for sale.

Mr. Theodore Ezeji, a merchant at Sabon-Gari, pleaded with the chairman to repair the Sabon-Gari road

Dilapidated Sabon-Gari road in Bwari

for the benefit of the masses plying the road.

He also cried out that Sabon-Gari was neglected in the area of electricity

Hon. Peter Yohanna Ushafa Chairman Bwari area council

and begged the chairman to provide a transformer in Sabon-Gari to boost constant electricity supply in the community.

Ezeji called on the chairman to re-double his effort to provide the gains of democracy for the people, especially as he was being elected for the second term in office.

In a similar vein, the people of Pyiwe community have also decried the lack of good roads in the area, and urged the chairman and the FCT administration to move towards providing basic amenities for the people of Pyiwe community.

Mr. Zakari Shu’aibu, a resident in the area, advised the chairman to use his second term in office as an opportunity to give priority attention to the grassroots’ development.

Shu’aibu expressed dismay that most of the nearby

villages in Bwari were left behind in terms of potable drinking water, good access roads and lack of standard primary schools.

However, a civil servant in Bwari Area Council, who pleaded for anonymity, accused the chairman of putting gravels at the secretariat road, instead of tarring it.

On his part, a meat vendor in Kuduru village, Mr. Yahaya Lawal, narrated that the administration of Bwari area council had failed to provide some basic needs for the people in Kuduru.

He further urged the chairman to fasttrack development in the community, especially in the area of electricity, in the interest of the people that voted him into power.

According to Lawal, the government of Bwari Area Council must place emphasis on the developmental strides to move Bwari and its environs to greater heights.

Commenting, Prince Chigozie Maduba, who is a resident in Kuduru, called for the provision of electricity in the area but however lauded the chairman for his effort to develop Bwari for the better.

In reality, the coming of the chairman for the second term in Bwari Area Council may be a good omen for the people of Bwari. However, for the chairman to leave a good legacy behind him, he should pursue policies and programmes aimed at moving the entire Bwari and its environs forward for the generations yet unborn.

Metro

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PEOPLES DAILY, MONDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2013

Two young boys hawking snacks and sachet water, recently at Area 1, in Abuja.

First Aid officials attending to a Muslim faithful, during Juma’at prayer, last Friday at Area 8, Garki, in Abuja.

Members of FCT cultural troupe dressed in fulani attire, entertaining guests, during NOA function, recently at Area 10, Garki, in Abuja.

An elderly dancer acknowledging cheers from people, during public function, yesterday at Karu, in Abuja.

Garbage overflows a refuse dump site, yesterday at Garki village, in Abuja.

Photos: Justin Imo-Owo

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PEOPLES DAILY, MONDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2013

PEOPLES DAILY, MONDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2013

PAGE 19

INSIDE

Isa_abdulwahab@yahoo.com, Isaabdulwahab@gmail.com 08033045613

We don’t owe FAAC N2.3tn – NNPC

- Pg 21

Bank CEO makes strong case for SMEs support

- Pg 21

L-R: Supervising Minister of Foreign Affairs, Prof. Viola Onwuliri, welcoming the visiting United Arab Emirates’ Minister of Power, Mr. Suhail Mazrouel, during his visit to the ministry, last Friday in Abuja.

Photo: NAN

20 firms, 5 banks raise N432.5bn to fund power,agric, others - DMO boss

By Abdulwahab Isa

N

o fewer than 20 Nigerian corporate entities, and five banks are said to have raised about N432.5billion from both local capital market and international mrket between 2005 and 2012 through issuance of long term debt instruments to finance key projects which included power, oil and gas, and agriculture.

While 20 local fims raised about N200billion, five leading players in the banking sector cumulatively raised $1.5 billion from international capital market to fund critical sectors of the economy, Director –General of Debt Management Office (DMO) Dr. Abraham Nwankwo said over

the weekend in a paper presentation at a retreat organised for members of Finance Correspondents Association of Nigeria (FICAN) in Kaduna, with a theme: “Opportunities for the private sector from public debt management achievements”.

Speaking on opportunities created by DMO to enable a flourished private sector thrive , Nwankwo listed the five banks as Guaranty Trust Bank plc, which raised $500m at 7.50 % coupon with a five year tenor duration in May 2011, Access Bank plc $350 million (7.25 % coupon) and five years tenor in July 2012, Fidelity Bank $300million (6.87% coupon) and five years tenor in May 2013 and First bank plc which raised

$300 million (8.25% coupon) for seven years tenor in July 2013.

He said the banks went to the international market to raise the funds to intervene in the funding of critical sector of the economy such as power, agriculture and aviation that have multiplier effect especially in the area of job creation.

He said that DMO on realising that huge funds domicile with Nigerians abroad created $100million Diaspora bond through which Nigerians resident abroad could participate in investments back at home, adding that, Diaspora fund will be invested in some identifiable projects.

To cater for the interest of some investors exempted by their country’s rule form participating

Automobile policy not outright ban of used cars- Aganga

By Stanley Onyekwere

N

ewly introduced policy on the importation of fairly used cars commonly referred to tokunbo is not aimed at outright banning of the importation of used cars, Minister of Trade, Industry and Investment, Olusegun Aganga has clarified.

The policy is rather designed to promoting investments in affordable made-in-Nigeria vehicles on a long-run, he stressed.

Aganga spoke in Abuja last week to clear misconception the new policy has stirred in the public.

The Federal Executive Council (FEC) had last week during its session approved” New

Automobile Industrial Policy Development and the policy has generated public outcry with many saying it would lead to outright ban on the importation of used vehicles into the country.

Aganga said, “this policy will not result in the banning of the importation of vehicles in Nigeria but focus on promoting investments in affordable madein-Nigeria vehicles that will in future minimize the importation of vehicles.

The minister explained that what government had done was to raise tariff on importation with a view to discouraging the influx of used vehicles into the country while also encouraging local manufacturing.

According to him, no responsible government would

ban importation of used cars without putting in place viable alternative.

“The importation of Tokubo cars will not be a major threat to the plan. Production of vehicles is in stages and involves a long process.

You do not remove a thing without providing a viable alternative.

“We must also continue to make sure that we educate Nigerians to understand that it is cheaper and better to buy a new car that can be serviced locally, than importing a car that after one or two years, you cannot maintain and you lose your money. We are determined to provide alternative for them,” he explained.

directly on investment, Nwankwo said DMO has floated N80 billion Global Depository Note (GPN) principally to cater for such investors.

“There was rapid inflow of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI but some investors can’t invest through the conventional arrangement that is why we are issuing GDN which will be out latest by next year along side with the Diaspora bond. The two special instruments will further open opportunity for funds to flourish in to the economy”, he said.

He said that with the modest strides recorded by DMO in opening access to funding opportunities both domestic and external debt markets, the agency will strive to ensure it strengthened and deepen the FGN bond market for enhanced liquidity through continued issuance of benchmark bonds and introduction of other varities of ebt instruments such as securities lending, bond switches and inflation –linked bonds in to the domestic bond market.

Investors’ wealth up by 1.3%

- Pg 22

Exchange Rates

CBN as at 2rd September, 2013 Buying

Selling

$

154.75

155.75

€

250.72

252.34

£

209.23

210.58

Riyal

41.26

41.53

YEN

1.58

1.59

CFA

0.300

0.310

MANAGEMENT TIP OF THE DAY Use this test before connecting with someone on LinkedIn

E

ven committed LinkedIn users can be uncertain of which connection requests to accept or extend. It’s possible to connect to almost anyone—but that doesn’t mean you should.

Instead, think about the twoway quality of your relationships.

Use a filter to help you connect to those people who will be able to help you, or whom you would be willing to help. Try the “favor test”: Would you do a favor for this person, or ask a favor of

them? If so, make the connection.

If not, take a pass. If you’re consistent in applying the favor test and selective about which connections you initiate and accept, you can tap LinkedIn’s power as an introduction machine: an address book in which all the entries can see and connect with one another, and a network that’s efficient in supporting your professional goals.

Source: Harvard Business Review

PAGE 20

PEOPLES DAILY, MONDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2013

Business

PEOPLES DAILY, MONDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2013

PAGE 21

We don’t owe FAAC N2.3tn –NNPC

By Etuka Sunday he Management of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC has refuted claim that it is indebted to the Federation Accounts the sum N2.3 trillion as purportedly attributed to the to Edo State Governor, Comrade Adams AliyuOshiomhole Refuting the claim in a statement issued by the Acting Group General Manager, Group Public Affairs Division of the Corporation, Mrs. Tumini Green, over the weekend, she expressed dismay at the unfounded accusations against it by otherwise informed persons in the polity.

Green said that Oshiomhole’s unfortunate attack is part of a sustained campaign against the

T

Corporation and its leadership in recent times, which is aimed at distracting it from the dogged pursuit of the transformation of the oil and gas industry for the general good of the nation, noting that NNPC will not be distracted by any campaign of calumny from any quarters. ‘’We wish to state without any equivocation that we donot owe the Federation Accounts any money as at today, taking into account outstanding subsidies and other associated costs of operations and loses. We have consistently paid all monies due to the FA into its Central Bank of Nigeria account as we receive them”,Green posited.

She noted that not all revenues collected by NNPC are paid

directly into the accounts of FA with the Central Bank of Nigeria.

Some are paid into the accounts of the relevant government agencies, like the Federal Inland Revenue Service and the Department of Petroleum Resources, with the CBN. But eventually all these payments are credited to the accounts of the FAAC. Green stated that another importantissue which is not taken into account by critics who reel out figures without cross-checking, is the outstanding debts owed NNPC by the Federal Government, especially from subsidy.

“Nigerians may wish to recall that in the wake of January 2012 subsidy saga, there was no budgetary provison for subsidy to NNPC and again in 2013 there was

no budgetary provision for subsidy to the Corporation.

NNPC has not received one kobo from the Federal Government in the name of fuel subsidy. Yet, Nigerians also know that NNPC has been the major supplier of petroleum products to the nation during this period and before.

Indeed, for the whole period that the subsidy saga continued, NNPC was the sole supplier of PMS across the country, and we never failed to ensure that every nook and corner of Nigeria was wet with PMS”,Green revealed.

She expressed the determination of the Corporation to ensure that petroleum products were available to move people and goods from one place to the other thus contributing to national economic growth.

L-R: GMD/CEO, UBA Plc, Mr. Phillips Oduoza, presenting souvenir to Governor, Bank of Ghana, Dr. Henry Kofi Wampah, during the business visit of UBA management to Bank of Ghana, last Friday in Accra.

Bank CEO makes strong case for SMEs support from Ngozi Onyeakusi, lagos

T

o build a pool of next generation of African corporate, there mustt be concerted promotion and protection of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) through the establishment of a solid framework supported by clearly articulated government policy.

Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Heritage Bank, Mr. Ifie Sekibo made the submission as a guest Speaker at the 2nd US-Africa Trade & Investment Forum/Africa Investment & Development Awards which held at St. Regis Hotel, New York, USA.

Speaking on topic “small & medium enterprise funding in Africa – a banker’s experience”, he observed that in Sub-Saharan Africa, SMEs are more creditconstrained and this typically affects growth possibilities as significantly low number of start ups who apply for financing actually succeed.

Studies, he noted, indicate that more than 70% of the SMEs lack access to medium-longer-term finance, creating an SME funding gap of more than $140 billion in Africa alone.

“Using Nigeria as a case study, between 2003 and 2009, SME loans as a percentage of total credit, decreased from 7.45% to 0.18%.

Yet by 2012, Nigeria had about 17.6 million MSMEs employing about 32.4 million people.

Although it is generally accepted that SMEs enhance competition and entrepreneurship, and their development has a positive impact on innovation and productivity growth, policy and infrastructure factors to mitigate risk and costs that SME sector cannot internalise needs to be seriously worked upon by all relevant stakeholders” He further revealed that in Nigeria, most SMEs die within the first five years of existence while another smaller percentage goes into extinction between the sixth and tenth year, with only five to ten percent

surviving, thriving and growing into established corporate status.

He listed the leading cause of such sub-optimal output to include: Poor access to funds, Weak institutional support, Unstable macro economics, Complicated and Unstructured Legal framework/Regulation, Inadequate business information, Infrastructure & Business environment and Human capital factors, among others.

Mr. Sekibo particularly lauded recent response to financing SMEs in Africa by Development finance institutions that are engaging partnerships with commercial banks and other SME focused lenders to

Skye Bank boosts YouWiN

From Ngozi Onyeakusi, Lagos

A

s part of its value addition to the Youth Enterprise with Innovation in Nigeria (YouWiN) empowerment programme of the Federal Government, Skye Bank Plc has provided intellectual dimension to the scheme by taking the awardees of the federal government grants through entrepreneurial training.

Speaking at the second seminar series organized by the bank for the awardees in Lagos over the weekend, the bank’s Executive Director, Retail Banking/South South Business Development, Mrs Ibiye Ekong, said Skye Bank had always been with the YouWiN programme from inception and has been passionate about it.

She said the management of the bank valued the relationship it has with the programme and promised the readiness of the bank to do more in the area of economically empowering the youth, through financial and business advisory intervention thereby reducing unemployment in the country.

The ‘Batch B’ of the YouWiN scheme was designed primarily for female entrepreneurs across the country. Ekong described women as good managers of resources, saying a nation that educates its women would be free from backwardness.

She urged the grant recipients to ensure that they create 250,000 new jobs thereby justifying the essence of the scheme. That way, she said the unemployment situation in the country would be controlled and reduced.

Govt urged to create ‘friendly’ legislation for young entrepreneurs in Nig

By Stanley Onyekwere

T

he United States Social speaker, Sarah Green has advised the Nigerian government to put in place, enabling entrepreneurialfriendly legislation, for young entrepreneurs and small businesses in the country to thrive.

She said, in addition to incorporating a friendly legislation like bankruptcy laws, for young entrepreneurs and small businesses in the country to succeed; government at all levels should create a culture conducive for entrepreneurship to survive.

Ms Green, who was on her visit to Nigeria, gave the advice during an interview with newsmen in Abuja.

Capital market PAGE 22

PEOPLES DAILY, MONDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2013

Nigerian bourse commences 2013 annual competition for students

T

L-R: Chief Executive Officer, Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE), Mr. Oscar Onyema, and Chairman, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr. Ibrahim Lamorde, during the signing of partnership MoU between NSE and EFCC, last Friday in Lagos.

Investors’ wealth up by 1.3%

From Ngozi Onyeakusi, lagos

D

riven by activity in the financial sector, the equity transaction on the floor of the Nigeria Stock Exchange (NSE) last week remained on the upbeat trend as the twin market indicators soared, giving rise to appreciation of 49 listed equities even as the market recorded additional 0.234 total shares on investment.

Specifically the NSE All-Share Index rose by 1.34% to close on Friday at 36,925.82 while the market capitalization of the listed equities on the main board also appreciated by 1.34% to close at N11.761 trillion.

Similarly, the NSE 30 Index inched up by 1.44% to close at 1,732.87.

Other NSE indices appreciated during the week with the exception of two. NSE Consumer Goods, NSE Banking, NSE Insurance and NSE Oil/ Gas inched up by 2.59%, 1.87%, 0.48%, and 1.32% respectively, while NSE Lotus II and NSE Industrial Goods slipped by 0.18% and 0.03% respectively.

However, the NSE-ASeM remained flat The market opened for four trading sessions this week as the Federal Government of Nigeria declared Tuesday, October 1, 2013 as public holiday to mark Nigeria’s 53rd

Independence Anniversary.

Meanwhile, a turnover of 1.625 billion shares worth N15.372 billion in 15,935 deals were traded by investors in contrast to a total of 1.391 billion shares valued at N11.722 billion that exchanged hands in 22,314 deals the previous week.

Review of the market indicated that the Financial Services sector (measured by volume) led the activity chart with 1.110 billion shares valued at N9.747 billion traded in 8,465 deals; thus contributing 8.28%, 63.41% and 53.12% to the total equity turnover volume, value and number of deals respectively.

The Conglomerates sector followed with a turnover of 379.453 million shares worth N935.749 million in 1,173 deals, contributing 23.35%, 6.09% and 7.36% to the total equity turnover volume, value and number of deals respectively. The Consumer Goods sector came third with 53.060 million shares worth N2.890 billion in 2,940 deals.

Trading in the top three equities namely Transnational Corporation of Nigeria Plc, Zenith Bank Plc UBA Plc (measured by volume) accounted for 662.364 million shares worth N4.935 billion in 2,556 deals, ontributing 40.76%, 32.10% and 16.04% to the total equity turnover volume, value and deals respectively.

Similarly, a total of 50 units of NewGold Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) valued at N101,800 executed in 1 deal were traded during the week compared with a total of 710 units valued at N1.445 million transacted last week in 5 deals.

However, there were no transactions in debt instruments during the week. Last week 9,445 units of FGN bonds valued at N10.074 million were traded in 4 deals.

Forty nine (49) equities appreciated in prices during the week higher than forty three (43) equities of the preceding week. Twenty four (24) equities depreciated in prices lower than thirty two (32) equities of the preceding week, while one hundred and twenty four (124) equities remained unchanged higher than one hundred and nineteen (119) equities of the preceding week.

Further review showed that Transnational Corporation of Nigeria Plc Transcorp led gainers table for the week in per centage terms, appreciating by 21.94 per cent orN0.34 per cent to close at N1.89 kobo, International Energy Insurance Company Plc followed with a gain of 20.34 per cent or N0.12 kobo to close at N0.71 kobo while Costain West Africa Plc gained N11.88 kobo or N0.12 kobo to close at N1.13

kobo. Other stocks that recorded price appreciation were Forte Oil 10.31 per cent, Red Star Express Plc 9.51 per cent, Associated Bus Company Plc 9.46 per cent, UBA Capital Plc 7.91 per cent, Wema Bank 7.37 per cent, International Breweries Plc 7.09 per cent and Access Bank Plc 5.78 per cent.

On the contrary, Jos International Breweries Plc topped losers chart, dropping by 13.70 kobo or N0.60 kobo to close at N0.60 kobo, Okomu Oil Palm plc trailed with a loss of 12.28 per cent or N5.90 kobo to close at N42.15 kobo while Courtville Business Solutions declined by 10.29 kobo or N0.07 kobo to close at N0.61 kobo.

Other companies that declined in price were Airline Services and Logistics Plc 6.69 per cent, Glaxo smithkline Consumer Nigeia Plc 7.25 per cent, Unity Bank Plc 6.67 per cent , Prestige Assurance Company Plc 5.00 per cent, RT Briscoe Plc6.86 per cent, Learn Africa Plc 4.62 per cent and Ashaka Cement 4.31 per cent Report on the OTC market for FGN bonds showed that a turnover of 111.010 million units valued at N121.425 billion in 700 deals were recorded this week in contrast to 131.511 million units worth N138.670 billion in 733 deals recorded in the preceding week ended September 27, 2013.

he Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) officially kicked off its 12th Annual National Essay Competition in the first week of October 2013 with the call for entries in secondary schools across the six geopolitical zones of the country.

The theme for this year is “Building a Sustainable Capital Market” with submission for entries being expected to close by the fourth week in October 2013.

This year’s edition showcases a slightly modified structure for the competition with upgrades intended to engage more young people in the society. With the competition now targeted at only Senior Secondary School students, to reflect the new focus, the nomenclature has been modified to “The NSE Essay Competition – Building a Financially Savvy Generation.

Speaking on the competition, Head of Corporate Communication of The NSE, Mrs. Nwando Ajene said that The Exchange is committed to the support of efforts aimed at addressing financial literacy and empowerment; this commitment is expressed in the various financial inclusions and literacy initiatives undertaken

by The NSE, one of which is the Annual Essay Competition. The competition’s overall goal is to develop a culture of wealth creation amongst our youth – ‘Catching Them Young’.

Commonwealth telecoms forum kicks off today

By Gabriel Gwajime

T

he Commonwealth Telecommunications Organization (CTO) 2013 forum and council meeting begin today in Abuja at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel .

Over 20 Ministers of Communications and 225 delegates would be in attendance, Executive Vice Chairman, National Communications Commission (NC), Dr. Eugene Juwah, disclosed ahead of the forum which among other things, highlights regional solutions to broadband infrastructure, revenue management and security challenges.

According to him, this year’s theme “innovation through broadband,” would also focus on how the Commonwealth countries would harness broadband to improve access to ICT in particular and communications in general.

PEOPLES DAILY, MONDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2013

Stock Watch

Report as at Friday, October 4, 2013

PAGE 23

PEOPLES DAILY, MONDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2013

Special Report

PAGE 24

PAGE 25

Kano’s 500-year old ‘dye pits’ survive despite threats

By Aminu Imam with agency report

T

he dye pits of Kano are over 500 years old and privately owned. Indigo is mixed with potassium and ash and fermented for a month before being ready to dye cloths.

The technique used by a group of northern Nigerian craftsman to dye cotton sheets indigo has survived for more than 500 years, but the risks of extinction have never been higher.

At the dye pits in Kano, Nigeria’s second city, a solution made up of natural indigo, ash and potash is brewed for at least a month in a shaft shaped like a well dug six-feet deep.

The indigo dyes were once used to make garments for Nigerian royalty and they are said to also be usable as medicine.

The 125 “Kofar Mata” pits were constructed in a walled compound in central Kano in 1498 and assigned to individual families whose descendants are said to still control the trade.

For over 500 years, tie-and -dye makers in Kano state have crouched down over circular pits in the earth to make beautiful designs from natural ingredients on fabrics that attract buyers from all over the world.

The former major producer of royal fabrics used to make attires for traditional rulers in the state; the Kofar Mata dye pit has now become a dumping ground for refuse.

The Kofar Mata dye pits established in 1498 is said to be the oldest in Africa, and is located one kilometer away from the Emir of Kano’s Palace. Despite the recent setback, the dying process has not changed as water and ash give its glaze and is mixed with potassium to fix the colour.

Stakeholders have advocated that on-going efforts by the government to reduce the number of unemployed in the country must involve resuscitating ventures like this age long traditional economic activity.

Mr. Abdullahi Zango,

A craftsman at the ancient dye pits in Kano

an expert in the art of dying explains that, hand-woven local cotton is much stronger than imported fabrics and a very profitable venture which has not been properly harnessed.

For 500 years the dyers of Kano have crouched over circular pits near the mud city wall, plunging fabrics into water infused with indigo.

The purple cotton of Kano was once famous throughout Africa’s arid Sahel belt, in the days when the Nigerian emirate was a center of transSaharan trade in salt and gold, rivaling the fabled riches of Timbuktu.

Now more than 100 pits have fallen into disrepair and many of them are clogged with refuse and stones. “Before it was much busier here,” said chief dyer, Hamidan Uba Zango, a glassy-eyed 80-yearold who has worked in the pits since he was six.

“There is foreign competition everywhere.

Before there was no foreign cloth in Africa, but now it

comes from China, England, Holland.”

Founded in 1498, the Kofar Mata pits are said to be the oldest in Africa and are the only survivor of Kano’s dye trade -- which once included 13 pit complexes. Close to the royal palace, its colors have adorned the fabrics of Kano’s traditional rulers for centuries.

Zango inherited the traditional title Sarkin Karofi, or chief of the dyers, three years ago. He still believes there is a future for his trade because the hand-woven local cotton is much stronger than imported machine fabrics, he says.

Squatting on the far side of the pits, two lean blue-robed figures, their faces swathed in black turbans, haggle with one of the dyers. “The Tuaregs still come. They remain good customers,” chuckles Zango, nodding towards them.

Bluemen of the Desert Known as the blue men of the desert, Tuareg of Mali take their nickname from their

billowing indigo robes.

“For most customers we soak the cloth in salt and vinegar to fix the color, but for the Tuaregs we leave it natural so that when it is washed, it dyes their faces and hands blue,” said Yusuf Sani, a guide.

“That is how they got their name.”

The dying process has not changed in centuries: water and ash, to give the dye a glaze, is mixed with potassium, to fix the color. Finally, dried indigo twigs are added and the whole mixture is fermented in a sixmeter deep pit for four weeks.

The garments are then dipped in the dye for between 30 minutes and six hours, depending on the depth of color desired. Every minute, they must be taken out so that oxygen can aid the coloring process.

On a good day, one of the sixty dyers who work here could earn 2,000 naira ($15) dying five garments -- a good wage in a country where most of the 140 million people live on much less than a dollar a

day. These days, the workers also have chemical dyes to produce different colors such as red, orange and brown.

“When you have used the new dyes once, you have to throw away the water, while the traditional dye you can use for a year,” said Sani. “The new dyes are poisonous, but the old ones you can use as medicine.”

Once an indigo pit has been exhausted, the sludgy residue at the bottom is dredged out and burned: the ashes are used to alleviate pregnancy pains and make other traditional remedies.

Despite the stiff competition from abroad and changing materials, Zango believes Kano’s dye pits will always find a niche for the discerning customer.

Yo Palisdan is one such man. He traveled hundreds of miles from the dunes of neighboring Niger in search of Zango’s fabrics.”The materials here are better than what you find in Niger,” he said, only his eyes showing behind his black headgear.

“Clinging to our local technique has been the secret to our survival,” said 38-yearold Yusuf Sa’eed. “Sometimes it pays to be conservative.”

A commitment to a centuries-old practice may have helped dye pit operators withstand developments that have devastated Kano’s textile industry.

Despite being Africa’s top oil producer, Nigeria has failed to provide a reliable flow of electricity to its people, forcing industries to spend heavily on generators.

The high cost of operating a business, combined with the influx of cheap foreign fabrics, especially from China, have forced the closure of all of Kano’s 20 textile factories over the last two decades, said Ali Madugu, deputy head of Nigeria’s main manufacturers association.

Manufacturing in general has all but collapsed across the city of some five million people.

The dye pits are however cheap to run, requiring no electricity, and still have loyal customers seeking the unique product. You can get a short

tour around the pits and they will be happy to sell you cloths and clothes dyed blue in a variety of tie dye patterns.

Security fears But customers have diminished significantly over the last two years, especially Western tourists.

The violent Islamist group, Boko Haram has repeatedly attacked Kano with bombings and gun raids, including a massive assault in January 2012 that killed at least 185 people.

“Tourists used to come in large numbers, on a daily basis, but they have been scared away by insecurity,” said Sa’eed.

“Business has been quite low in the last two years.”

While Nigeria has never been a leading tourism destination, Kano, an ancient city rich in Islamic history, did previously receive more visitors, including expatriates based in Lagos or the capital Abuja.

Asian textile imports a threat Domestic demand for textiles however remains strong. Kano’s massive and hectic textile market attracts

buyers from across Nigeria, Africa’s most populous country with some 170 million people, and from the wider Sahel region, but virtually all of the merchandise comes from Asia, said Liti Kukul of the textile traders association.

Nigeria has at various points over the last decade sought to ban, and more recently heavily tax, the import of foreign textiles but the measures have had little impact.

The dye pit operators are now considered the city’s last indigenous textile producers but even their output has declined.

Not all of the 125 pits are still operational: it costs $300 (220 Euros) to prepare the

dyeing solution, an unrealistic overhead cost for some of the families which own pits, even if the solution lasts for one year.

But Ismail Lawan, 40, was hard at work on a recent morning, perched on a low stool, dipping a hand-made cotton sheet into a six-foot well, his rubber gloves stained a dark purple.

The dying process involves dipping the fabric in the solution for a minute, then pulling it out and exposing it to the air for another minute or two.

“You repeat this cycle until you get the desired colour,” said Sa’eed, explaining that roughly an hour of treatment produces a lighter indigo, but that the cycle can be repeated

“

Despite the stiff competition from abroad and changing materials, Zango believes Kano’s dye pits will always find a niche for the discerning customer

The tie-and dye business used to thrive some decades ago

for up to three hours to produce the darker shades.

Before the dyeing is done, the designers, who are typically women, decorate each cloth with one of ten patterns, including one specific for weddings called: “Bride and Groom.”

Fabrics made at the dye pits typically sell for roughly $20.

The compound that hosts the pits has inevitably decayed since 1498 and the Kano state government spent $95,000 earlier this year to refurbish the site.

But, according to Sa’eed, over five centuries the inner walls of the pits “have never peeled off.”

Some may doubt that claim and witnesses present for the original construction are long gone, but Sa’eed insisted that the “local materials” used to line the inner walls of the pits have stayed impervious.

Foreigners who have tried to replicate the craft have consistently failed, he added.

But as for what local materials have kept the pits intact, Sa’eed said “that has remained our closely guarded secret”.

A dye maker at one of the dye pits

The indigo dye pits in Kano

PAGE 26

PEOPLES DAILY, MONDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2013

PEOPLES DAILY, MONDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2013

PAGE 27

Education

wallybabe2010@gmail.com, 08050639900

Implications of the prolonged ASUU strike

The nationwide strike embarked upon by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) is exactly 102 days today with no sign of ending.

Both the federal government and members of the Union are adamant despite several calls from different groups and individuals to bring an end to the protracted feud. Maryam Garba Hassan takes a look at the implications of the industrial action on some crucial aspects of the society.

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he lingering dispute between the federal government and the members of the union of ASSU is not only threatening to fully ground the entire sector as some other unions are threatening to join the action that is already having its toll on the Nigerian students, communities and the almost collapsed sector.

Firstly, stakeholders, individuals, groups and even of recent the Senate President, David Mark, have been condemning products of the nation’s educational sector, calling them half- baked and unemployable graduates. With the present industrial action that has been on for 3 months, this notion most if not all Nigerians hold may soon become a reality.

Today, incessant industrial strikes in the academic sector have made many, if not all Nigerian universities to run arbitrary calendars that are not in consonance with the rhythmic symphony of their counterparts across Africa and Europe.

The country’s academic calendar is automatically being disrupted and therefore, the curriculum may not be covered before the beginning of the next school session.

As it is now, post UME is supposed to have commenced with admissions expected to be in its second stage or awaiting the release of supplementary lists while those graduating have finished their final examinations.

It is pertinent to note that the disruption of our universities’ calendar has made many of our good lecturers to continually find solace in plying their trade in universities in developed countries where they find suitable environment conducive for learning.

With what is happening in the education sector now, the nation may again witness another unfortunate phase of mass exodus of the very few remaining brains (lecturers) left in the system to other countries of the world in search of better alternative responsibilities where they will give their best.

However, in the event that the strike is called off and in order to finish the semesters’ lectures, lecturers may as usual rush students, which may counter- productive.

ASUU President, Nasir Isa Fagge

Supervising Minister for Education, Ezenwo Eyesom Wike

This also brings us back to the issue of Nigeria not meeting the Education For All (EFA) not even in the year 2020 as recently said by the UNESCO. Secondly, the strike is already paralysing or greatly affecting the economy of the communities around the Universities as most of the habitants of such communities engage in petty trading within and around the Universities which some of them depend on to sustain their families.

The non- resolution of the dispute will no doubt affect the nation’s already dented image in the eyes of the international education communities who see our government as serious about one of the most important sectors in any antion aspiring to

“

develop.

It would be recalled that in the history of Nigeria this is the first time the government is increasing the budgetary allocation of the sector from N400b to N426.53b this year, but despite that, stakeholders are of the opinion that the present administration is the most unserious government ever who only care about spending huge amount of money on the sector without having its interest at heart and at the same time implement policies that most often than not do not have relevance to the sector and the present school curriculum.

Thirdly, the ongoing industrial action will further degenerate the existing universities.

With what is happening in the education sector now, the nation may again witness another unfortunate phase of mass exodus of the very few remaining brains (lecturers) left in the system to other countries of the world in search of better alternative responsibilities where they will give their best.

Another grave consequence of the on -going strike which also calls for the concern of all discerning Nigerians, parents and the university administrations, is the possibilities of some students engaging themselves in acts that are not in consonance with the teachings of the nation’s divine ideologies, cultures and traditions particularly now that the political situation in the country left much to be desired.

However, parents seeking sound education for their children and wards will seize this opportunity to send them to renowned private Universities at home and abroad.

This will however affect the country economically by devaluing our naira.

One major implication of the strike on the nation’s education system is the issue of brain drain syndrome and the inability of poor parents to send their intelligent and prospective children to good schools which possess danger to the nation.

The demoralising effects of the elongations of the school year caused by strikes that has been identify with the nation’s educational sector over the years, for many students have caused many students the difficulty of projecting into their future with hope and confidence.

The core issue we should be looking at is the damages the Union’s action and government’s inability to resolve the issue has already done to the sector.

Every Nigerian will want to see things corrected in the sector.

There is no way the Federal Government will think by giving 100bn to Universities as

recommended by the Presidential Committee on Universities’ Need Assessment which was not implemented until the industrial action commenced, will solve the problems of the educational sector without paying attention to the demand of the lectures.

Although many think that the demand of the Nigerian lecturers is unrealistic even as it was part of the agreement entered into between the government and the union.

The federal government has also consistently said the demand of the lecturers is unrealistic.

Recently, at a function, Supervising Minister for Education, Ezenwo Eyesom Wike, pleaded with the union to understand that the federal government cannot meet their demand of 92 million, saying that the federal government had already met about 80 per cent of the ASUU demand.

The present government has been reiterating its commitment towards correcting ills in the sector by bringing in policies some of which are good, particularly if they are sustained.

But the correction must begin by addressing the exact needs of the sector across the country, if not; we will only be scratching the surface while the real problems get more deeply rotten. And it might take us more years of pains and funds to redress our wrongs.

There is need for all stakeholders in the country to participate in any way to reach ideal, rational and realistic consensus with the union on how to end the strike, move the educational sector forward and sustainably.

PEOPLES DAILY, MONDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2013

PAGE 28

Education

Educational future of Kebbi children in danger, says ASUSS From Ahmed Idris, Birnin Kebbi

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hairman of Academic Staff Union of Secondary Schools (ASUSS), Kebbi state chapter, Comrade Ibrahim Garba has said the future of students of the state aspiring to gain admission into universities and other tertiary institutions across the country has been put in danger by the state government.

Garba said this at the occasion marking this year’s World Teachers’ Day in Birnin Kebbi, the state capital.

He said the government inability to release funds to settle the examination fees of the state’s students for WAEC and NECO has resulted in withholding results by the two examinations bodies, therefore making it impossible for the students to further their education.

He called on the state authorities to as a matter of urgency release funds to settle the examination fees of the students if it is committed to its pledge of free

education for the students from primary to secondary school level.

He said after 53 years of existence as a Nation, Nigeria’s education is still recording poor performances in external examinations by our students, adding that up till now the inputs in what makes education system functional does not match the expected output which some tagged failing standard of education.

He said ASUSS in the state had offered tremendous assistance to the families of deceased members by assisting them with N10,000 and a bag of rice each, adding that this year alone the union lost 20 of its members.

In the area of manpower development, the ASUSS boss stated that the union had sponsored workshop and came up with a programme which enables about 100 schools across the state to own one set of DSTV each for teachers to watch educational stations across the globe.

…..Asks ASUU to re-evaluate its demands

From Osaigbovo Iguobaro, Benin

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he leadership of the Academic Staff Union of Secondary Schools (ASSUS), has called on the striking university lecturers to review its priorities and call off its three months old strike in the interest of the students.

President of ASSUS, Osaruyi Charles Faluyi, made the call at an event to mark this year’s World Teacher Day, said ASUU strike must be well directed to reposition university education in line with global standard.

According to him, “in unionism, you may not have it all. It is give and take. If you are requesting for about five things and your employer is able to give you three or two-and-half. At times, you look at the priorities there and call off the strike.

“We are not saying that the Federal government is right or ASUU is right or wrong. What we are saying is that, yes, there is a conflict but it must not be a do-ordie affair.

‘We sympathise with ASUU but they should come to a round table and resolve their differences and ensure that our students do

Delta NUT, governor collide over delayed payments

From Prince Edward, Asaba

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elta state Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan and the state chapter of Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) is at loggerheads over alleged selection in promotion of its members by the state Working Committee on the union and delay in payment of its monthly emolument.

However, the state Commissioner for Information, Chike Ogeah, in a quick reaction dispelled as untrue, allegations by the teacher’s body, adding that the state teachers have been well catered for by the governor in the last six years of his administration.

The state NUT chapter in a communiqué issued at the end of an emergency meeting of the state wing executive council (SWEC) however called on the state government to address what it described as ill-treatment being meted out on teachers in the state, especially primary school teachers through persistent delay in the payment of their monthly emoluments.

In the communiqué jointly signed by Comrades Jonathan Jemirieyigbe, Joe Iyalekwe and Anthony Usiakpo, Chairman, Principal Assistant Secretary and

Publicity Secretary of the Union respectively, they urged the state government to look into the non- promotion of teachers since July 2011.

While appealing to the state governor to reverse the recent policy of selecting promotion of teacher’s in the state, as well as the non- implementation of promotions released since July 2008 to July 2010, the communiqué stated “SWEC in section views this as not tandem with the human capital agenda of Emmanuel Uduaghan administration and advises the state government to include the financial implication of teacher’s promotion in the 2014 budget to forestall a repeat of withheld promotion of teachers”.

According to the communiqué, SWEC have also examined other lingering issues affecting the teachers in the state to include non-payment of consolidated and minimum wage arrears to primary school teachers expressing displeasure over the non- payment of 2006 to 2009 promotion allowances to teachers whose name it claimed were omitted from the verified list and 27.5% allowances to primary school teachers and urged the government to address the issue before the end of October 2013.

L-R: President, Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), Comrade Micheal Alogba, and Kwara state Governor, Alhaji Abdulfatah Ahmed, during the 2013 World Teachers Day celebration, on Saturday in Abuja.

Photo: Justin Imo-Owo

FG will address shortfall in techers, says Jonathan

By Maryam Garba Hassan

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resident Goodluck Jonathan has assured Nigerian teachers of federal government’s commitment to addressing the shortfall in the teaching profession and plans to boost the capacity of teachers to deliver qualitative education.

Jonathan who gave the assurance while declaring open the 2013 World Teachers’ Day called on teachers to act as agents of positive change and transformation to enable the nation achieve its education goals.

Represented by Vice-President Namadi Sambo, the President challenged the teachers to work harder in imparting useful knowledge, discipline and patriotism to the younger generation.

‘On this important Teachers Day, we are making a call for

teachers to give their utmost in achieving our education goals.

‘We are calling for teachers who love the profession, not just teachers who impart knowledge to earn a living.

The President reassured that government on its part was committed to addressing the challenges in the nation’s educational sector and called on all stakeholders in the sector to support the teachers in their sacred assignment of building the present and future leaders of the country.

The supervising Minister of Education, Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, commended the leadership of the NUT for their support and understanding in the realisation of the nation’s education goals.

He said government would abide by all agreements reached

between it and all trade unions in the educational sector for peace to reign in the nation’s institutions.

The National President of NUT, Comrade Michael Olukoya, urged the three tiers of government to stop recruiting unqualified people to teach in schools and called for an end to the ongoing ASUU strike, urging all parties in the dispute to put Nigeria first in their consideration.

Gov. Abdulfatai Ahmed of Kwara, who received NUT award for Excellence in Education at the event, expressed optimism that the ongoing strike by ASUU would soon come to an end.

Other recipients of the award were the Governors of Enugu and Yobe States, Sullivan Chime and Ibrahim Gaidam respectively.

ASUP urges stakeholders to salvage polytechnics from collapse From James Ogunnaike, Abeokuta

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he Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP), Zone C has called on all stakeholders in the nation’s education sector to re-position and nurture all the nation’s polytechnics to an enviable citadel of learning and technological innovation.

The zonal coordinator of Zone C of the Union, Comrade Babatunde Dosunmu, made the call at the weekend at a press conference in Abeokuta on the deci-

sion of the National Executive Council of the Union to resume an indefinite strike which it had earlier suspended due to the federal government’s failure to honour the agreement it entered with the union in 2009 on the working condition of Polytechnic campuses across the country as well as improved welfare packages for lecturers.

According to the union, all stakeholders in the polytechnic sector of the nation’s education; legislators, parents, students and the general public should inter-

vene to stop the collapse of the sector which was envisioned by the founding fathers of the country as the springboard for technological development, but has been subjected to disdain and neglect by government and other policy makers in Nigeria.

“These situations have obviously hindered growth and undermined the foundation for sustainable development of polytechnic education in Nigeria, and as vital stake holders, we must rise in defense of the system”, Dosumu said.

PEOPLES DAILY, MONDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2013

PAGE 29

Healthy Living

Govt failure to sanitise drug markets annoy experts From Osaigbovo Iguobaro, Benin

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he alleged failure by the Federal government to decentralise drugs distribution network and bring a sigh of containment to fake, counterfeit and adulteration of drugs sold at ``open drug markets’’ across the Country has given way to anger and frustration among experts who converged on Benin City to brainstorm.

Speaking during the weekend at the annual pharmaceutical

society of Nigeria (PSN), week, 2013, Mrs. Felicia Oriafo-Odaro, described as misleading the Minister of Health Prof.

Onyebuchi Chukwu strategy to dislodge drug barons at “open drug markets’’, like Gwagwalada drug open market Abuja, Ariaria market Aba, in Abia, BridgeHead drug market, Onitsha in Anambra and Warri-drug market in Delta States.

The keynote Speaker while dwelling on the topic: “Medicines and society”, said, “despite efforts by the National Agency for

Food Drug And Control Agency (NAFDAC), in fighting fake and counterfeiting, Nigeria is still far from been out of the wood of drug counterfeiting.

“The Federal government action plan to establish mega medicines distribution centre (MMDC), across the six geopolitical zones, which would have been complemented by States and local governments medicines distribution centres have exposed governments notoriety for reluctance in given clear policy direction”, she said.

Mrs. Odaro, who is the former

task force Chairman on fake, counterfeit and adulteration, Edo State chapter observed that one among the 36 States has established medicine distribution centre, implementation was yet to begin at both States and the Federal levels.

She concluded that the answer to the problem lies in the belly of time, two years after the Minister’s declaration and 13 years after the National drug policy of the country was launched.

Meanwhile, the ultra modern central hospital, Benin City 120-

MDGs: Nigeria will meet 2015 deadline on health care

From Mohammed Kandi, Kaduna

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pecial Adviser to Kaduna state governor on Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), Arc Aminu Idris, has expressed optimism that Nigeria will beat the 2015 deadline for the MDGs goals in the health sector.

The SA’s optimism is against the backdrop of rising concerns that the nation may not meet the MDGs deadline.

Arc Idris, who is also the state Focal Person for the over 100 Conditional Grants Scheme (CGS) flagship projects for 2011, told our reporter in Kaduna that his confidence was informed by the successes recorded on the projects under his supervision, which are spread across the rural communities in the state.

He reiterated that the MDGs on health care delivery was attainable, saying the state was making intensive efforts towards providing free medical service to the people including the subsidised medical overhaul through the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS).

According to him, the CGS projects including educational, water, and health care facilities were designed to complement the facilities that are inadequate in some sectors of the economy in the country.

Also speaking to our reporter during CGS project documentation tour of Kaduna state, Easter Bawa, a beneficiary of a hand pump borehole at Unguwan Bawa Wauri in Kajuru local government said “the facility has ended the era of suffering where we often go scouting in the streams in search of potable drinking water.”

R-L: Hospital Manager, Dr. Hassan Clinics, Abuja, Mr Girija Pandey, Chief Medical Director, Dr. Hassan Clinics and Diagnostic Centre, Dr. Hassan Huibul, Indian High Commissioner to Nigeria, Ambassador Mahesh Sachdev, and Director, Laboratory Services of the hospital, Dr. G.C. Okara, during the inauguration of the first tele-medicine centre, on Saturday in Abuja.

Photo: Justin Imo-Owo

Kebbi spends N13m on HIV AIDS drugs

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he Kebbi state Agency for the Control of AIDs (KBSACA), says it has purchased drugs worth N13 million for distribution to persons living with HIV and AIDS free of charge.

The Secretary to the state government, Alhaji Nuradeen Kangiwa, made the disclosure in Birnin Kebbi, while handing over the drugs to the state Ministry of Health.

Kangiwa, who is also the

Chairman of the agency, assured that the agency would fund campaign, care, commodities and provision of drugs as part of efforts to ensure the elimination of the scourge by 2015, adding that the free drugs were aimed at reducing hardship faced by patients and urged people to support government’s efforts at curbing the spread of the scourge.

Kangiwa advised those living with the virus to access the drugs.

In a speech at the ceremony, the Coordinator of the agency, Alhaji Abdullahi Muhammad, said the agency had 100 functional centres for the treatment of infected persons.

The Director of the state Medical Services, Dr. Aminu Bunza, who represented the Commissioner for Health, Alhaji Aliyu Sambawa, assured that the drugs would be utilised judiciously. (NAN)

Doctors strike: Gombe cry for help

From David Hassan, Gombe

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atients at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) in Gombe at the weekend cried out for help following the indefinite strike embarked upon by members of the National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD).

Our correspondent who visited the hospital reported that most offices occupied by

the resident doctors at the Centre were under lock and key.

He also reported that despite the strike, consultant doctors and corps members who are not part of the strike were available to attend to the emergency patients.

When contacted, the Chief Medical Director of the FMC, Dr. Abubakar Saidu, confirmed that the strike has

paralyzed activities at the hospital, leading to a reduction in the number of patients in the hospital.

During a visit to the Female Orthopaedic Ward, a patient, Salamatu Mohammed called on the federal government to as a matter of urgency address the contending issues with the NARD immediately as the strike has affected patients in the hospital.

bed capacity which collapsed two years ago, killing at least five persons including an Expatriate has been slated for completion next year.

Governor, Adams Oshiomhole urged the Pharmacists to imbibe high ethical standard in the interest of the masses to imbibe the best practices obtained in other parts of the world, saying work would commence soon.

Nigeria at 53: NMA worries over struggling health system

T

he Nigeria Medical Association (NMA) has expressed regret that 53years of Nigeria’s independence, her health system is still struggling.

NMA president, Dr. Osahon Enabulele, in his assessment of the country’s health sector noted that like other sectors of the country’s economy it has had its good and bad times with uninspiring national health indices attributable to years of cumulative insults, lack of professional order and best practices, a weak private health sector, poorly developed social infrastructure, as well as policy inconsistency.

He was however positive that if greater efforts are made to secure political commitment to health by all levels of government, the story will change for good.

“As Nigeria celebrates her 53rd Independence anniversary, she could in subsequent years, witness better performance in her overall growth and development if greater efforts are made to secure: “Political commitment to health by all levels of government, particularly state and local governments with political leaders at local, state and federal government levels committing themselves to the utilization of public healthcare facilities in their communities, states and local governments rather than the frequent recourse to foreign medical care for medical conditions that can be effectively managed in Nigeria; This will save Nigeria from the huge capital flight and annual loss of over $800 million due to unrestricted medical tourism”, he stated.

Enabulele also stated that “with sincere improvement in the budgetary provision for health to at least 15% of Nigeria’s national budget, backed with adequate release and effective utilization of the available funds and resources” coupled with the provision of modern health infrastructure and facilities, the health system could be overturned.

PAGE 30

Healthy Living

PEOPLES DAILY, MONDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2013

Home remedy to easily solve your piles problem What are Piles?

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iles are nothing but painful and enlarged veins that you find in your rectum. It is also known as hemorrhoids and is a medical condition in which the veins around the lower rectum or anus gets enlarged and inflamed than normal.

Piles are both internal as well as external. The internal hemorrhoids cannot be seen or felt unless they are severe. External hemorrhoids can be seen outside of the anus. It is an uncomfortable and unpleasing medical condition.

But, it is not a serious medical condition and arises due to increased pressure of the external and internal veins around the rectum canal. The causes of plies are: low fiber diet, ageing, hereditary and pregnancy as well as severe constipation. There are a lot of home remedies that can prevent piles.

Home remedies to cure pile and hemorrhoids 1. Black Cumin Seeds-This is a common piles remedy which practiced in India.

• Take 1 table spoon of roasted black cumin seeds and mix it with1 tablespoon of unroasted black cumin.

• Powder them together and take ½ tsp of this powder with one glass of water every day 2. Shallots-This is another effective remedy for piles.

• Peel 20-25 shallots cut into smaller pieces, fry it in butter or oil and consume it every day.

3. Radish Juice-This remedy will reduce the swelling and pain associated with piles.

• Take the radish juice in the morning and at night, start with ¼ cup and gradually increase to ½ cup over a period of one month, or you continue the remedy till there is relief from piles.

4. Banana-The banana has fiber in it and acts as a laxative.

It helps to improve the bowel movements, so that you don’t have

to strain when you are in the toilet.

When your bowel movements are proper the problem will get reduced.

• Boil 1 banana with 1 cup of milk, mash well and take this mix three to four times a day.

5. Leaves of Bitter GourdBitter gourd leaves have medicinal value that will help to reduce the pain and swelling.

• Crush the leaves of bitter gourd and extract the juice and mix three teaspoons of this juice with one glass of buttermilk.

• Drink this mixture on empty stomach, daily morning for at least one month.

6. Egg of Duck-This is a highly helpful and easy to follow home remedy for piles.

• Boil 2-3 eggs of duck and eat only the white portion, and continue this remedy till you find changes in piles condition.

7.

Lemon Juice-Though this remedy will cause some discomfort and burning sensation, but it is very effective in reducing the pain caused by hemorrhoids.

• Take some freshly squeezed lemon juice and soak a clean

cotton ball in this juice.

• Apply the cotton ball to the anal area for five minutes and you will see faster relief from pain and swelling.

8. Aloe Vera-This remedy work wonders for swollen and painful veins, it reduces bleeding piles and it can also be used in different ways.

• You can cut the leaf of Aloe Vera into half and slightly heat, apply this to the affected area before you go to bed.

• You can also freeze the leaves and apply them on painful piles to reduce pain, itchiness or burning sensation.

9. Warm Bath or Sitz-Soaking in a warm bath or Sitz is a good home remedy for piles. Sitz baths are available in drug stores.

• Soak the anal area in plain warm water for about 10-15 minutes, and 2-3 times a day.

• You can also add Epsom salt to the water.

• Epsom salts make the hemorrhoids shrink.

10. Ginger-This is a naturally available treatment to get relief from the piles problem.

• Mix 1 teaspoon of ginger

extract with mint extract, one tablespoon of honey and lime juice and take this mixture every day to get relief from piles.

11. Teabag-Tea contains tannin which is a natural astringent. This will help to reduce the swelling and pain.

• Apply warm wet tea bag to the affected area, and the warmth will soothe the area, also you can apply the teabag while sitting on the toilet.

12. Witch Hazel-This is another tannin rich herb which will help you to get rid of the pain and discomfort caused by the hemorrhoid.

• Take a cotton ball soaked in undistilled witch hazel and dab the hemorrhoids with witch hazel using the cotton ball to reduce swelling and itching.

13. Eat Fiber Rich Food-The most important natural home remedy for pile is consuming the right food. To treat the piles or to prevent piles one should have a proper diet which is rich in fiber.

• Include more fruits and vegetables in your diet.

• Use brown rice instead of white rice

• Include oatmeal, wheat bran, pulses in your diet.

14. Ring Cushions-Using ring cushions to sit can take off the pressure on the piles.

This remedy will be highly useful if you have inflamed and thrombosed piles.

Avoid sitting for long hours as this can cause pressure to the anal area.

• If you are lightweight you can use the pool inflatable for children.

• There are round cushions available in memory foam for piles patients.

15. Do Not Strain-Lifting heavy objects can cause more pressure on the piles.

It is also necessary to avoid strained bowel movements, and try to let the bowel movements pass without forcing.

The unnecessary buildup worsens the hemorrhoids.

• Do not lift heavy items and use the correct posture to lift the things from the ground.

• You can prevent straining in the toilet by using the correct posture, and you can reduce the strain on the rectum by placing your feet up on a small stool.

How to clean the lungs in 3 days

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any people live their lives with healthy lungs and always fall prey to respiratory problems, and others smoke for 45 years and are still healthy.

Not bring more mysteries than a regime of 3 days to give your lungs the cleaning they

need. These steps will help.

The body must rid of toxins from dairy products much before starting to clean the lungs. Dairy products may interfere with the detoxification process, since they are slowly digested by the body.

Drink 1 cup of herbal laxative

tea before going to bed the night before the first day of regime.

This frees the system of toxins in the intestines that may tend to begin constipation.

Squeeze 2 whole lemons in 300 milliliters of water before breakfast; this will prepare you to digest alkalizing foods that help the lungs to regenerate.

Drinking 300ml of juice of grapefruit in the snack, if you don’t like the taste of the juice, mix it with a bottle of mineral water or replace it with pineapple juice, these juices contain natural antioxidants that promote a healthy respiratory system.

Drinking 300 milliliters of pure carrot juice between breakfast and lunch will help

alkalize your blood during the 3 days of cleaning.

You have to drink 400 milliliters of a potassium-rich juice with lunch which is a powerful agent that acts as a tonic for cleaning when ingested in liquid form.

It squeezed carrot, celery, spinach, parsley, and it is a true disgust that changes your life.

400 Milliliters of cranberry juice, drink before bedtime as it helps to fight bacteria in the lungs that can cause infections.

Blueberries are powerful antioxidants.

Care of the body and exercise: A hot bath for 20 minutes every day, it is important to allow the body to lose toxins through perspiration

as much as possible.

Once a day brisk walks: Walking promotes healthy breathing, as you walk, you focus on breathing slowly and fully, it keeps the pace.

Place 5 to 10 drops of eucalyptus in hot water and then you put a dry towel on the back of the head and inhale the steam until the water is no longer hot.

The properties of oil and steam can help loosen the mucus.

There may be many things that you cannot afford in this regime to clean the lungs, but if this is your case, limit yourself to carrot juice, juice of cranberry and walk for a week, they are the three pillars along with: Don’t smoke, Avoid caffeine and Consult your doctor often.

PEOPLES DAILY, MONDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2013

PAGE 31

International

As Obama’s Asia ‘pivot’ falters, China steps into the gap ANALYSIS

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hen then U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton declared two years ago “We are back to stay” as a power in Asia, the most dramatic symbol of the policy shift was the planned deployment of 2,500 U.S. Marines in northern Australia, primed to respond to any regional conflict.

At this point in time, however, there is not a single U.S. Marine in the tropical northern city of Darwin, according to the Australian defense ministry. Two hundred Marines just finished their six-month tour and will not be replaced until next year, when 1,150 Marines are due to arrive.

The original goal of stationing 2,500 Marines there by 2017 remains in place, but the lack of a U.S. presence there two years after the policy was announced underlines questions about Washington’s commitment to the strategic “pivot” to Asia.

President Barack Obama’s cancellation of a trip this week to four Asian nations and two regional summits due to the U.S. government shutdown has raised further doubts over a policy aimed at re-invigorating U.S. military and economic influence in the fastgrowing region, while balancing a rising China.

While U.S. and Asian diplomats downplayed the impact of Obama’s no-show, the image of a dysfunctional, distracted Washington adds to perceptions that China has in some ways outflanked the U.S. pivot.

“It’s symptomatic of the concern in Asia over the sustainability of the American commitment,” said Carl Baker, director of the Pacific Forum at the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Hawaii.

As embarrassed U.S. officials announced the cancellations last week, Chinese President Xi Jinping was in Indonesia announcing a raft of deals worth about $30 billion and then in Malaysia to announce a “comprehensive strategic partnership”, including an upgrade in military ties.

He was en route to this week’s Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in Bali and the East Asia Summit in Brunei, where Obama will no longer be able to press his signature trade pact or use personal diplomacy to support allies concerned at China’s assertive maritime expansion.

Since 2011, China has consolidated its position as the largest trade partner with most Asian countries and its direct investments in the region are surging, albeit from a much lower base than Europe, Japan and the

Malaysia PM Najib Razak (front L) with Xi Jinping (front R)

United States. Smaller countries such as Laos and Cambodia have been drawn so strongly into China’s economic orbit that they have been called “client states” of Beijing, supporting its stance in regional disputes.

Leveraging its commercial ties, China is also expanding its diplomatic, political and military influence more broadly in the region, though its efforts are handicapped by lingering maritime tensions with Japan, the Philippines and several other nations.

“For countries not closely allied with the U.S., Obama’s noshow will reinforce their policy of bandwagoning with China,” wrote Carl Thayer, emeritus professor at the Australian Defence Force Academy in Canberra.

China, for instance, has been the biggest trade partner of the 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) since 2009, and its direct investments are surging, bringing with them increased economic and diplomatic influence.

Chinese companies invested $4.42 billion in Southeast Asia in 2012, up 52 percent on the previous

year, according to Chinese state media citing the China-ASEAN Business Council. Investments into neighboring Vietnam rocketed 147 percent.

China is demonstrating that it can deploy forces far beyond its coastal waters on patrols where they conduct complex battle exercises, according to Japanese and Western naval experts. Chinese shipyards are turning out new nuclear and conventional submarines, destroyers, missile-armed patrol boats and surface ships at a higher rate than any other country.

Operating from increasingly modern ports, including a new naval base in the south of Hainan island, its warships are patrolling more regularly, in bigger numbers and further from the mainland in what is the most sweeping shift in Asia’s maritime power balance since the demise of the Soviet navy.

China’s military diplomacy with Southeast Asia is rapidly evolving as it takes steps to promote what Beijing describes as its “peaceful rise”.

The Chinese navy’s hospital ship Peace Ark recently treated hundreds of patients on a swing last month

“

through Myanmar, Cambodia and Indonesia - its first such mission across Southeast Asia. Its naval vessels returning from regular international anti-piracy patrols in the Gulf of Aden have made calls in Southeast Asian ports, including Singapore and Vietnam.

Still, analysts and diplomats say Beijing has a long way to go to catch up with not just the long-dominant United States, but other regional military powers such as Australia, Japan and Russia.

“China has come late to the party,” said Richard Bitzinger, a military analyst at Singapore’s S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies.

Prime Minister Lee HsienLoong of Singapore, one of Washington’s most key allies in the region, said it was disappointing Obama would not be visiting Asia.

“Obviously we prefer a U.S. government which is working to one which is not. And we prefer a U.S. President who is able to travel to fulfill his international duties to one who is preoccupied with his domestic preoccupations,” Lee said after arriving in Bali.

“It is a very great disappointment

Prime Minister Lee HsienLoong of Singapore, one of Washington’s most key allies in the region, said it was disappointing Obama would not be visiting Asia.

to us President Obama is unable to visit.”

U.S. officials dismissed the notion that Obama’s no-show would imply any weakening of the U.S. commitment to the region. Just last week, Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel and Secretary of State John Kerry were in South Korea and Japan to reaffirm the U.S. military commitment to the two key allies, and Kerry will fill in for Obama at the two Asian summits.

“The bottom line is that the United States of America is not going to change one iota the fundamental direction of the policy under this president,” Kerry said on Saturday.

“I think everybody in the region understands. Everybody sees this (the cancellation of the visit) as a moment in politics - an unfortunate moment - but they see it for what it is.”

The United States has ramped up military funding and assistance to its close ally the Philippines, expanded military exercises with other nations and increased regional port visits.

From only 50 ship visits in 2010, nearly 90 ships have visited the Philippines since January this year alone.

Washington has stationed surveillance planes there and promised up to $30 million in support for building and operating coastal radar stations, all aimed at improving its ally’s ability to counter China’s naval encroachment in the disputed South China Sea that has alarmed several Asian nations.

But talks to establish a framework agreement on a regular rotational U.S. military presence in the Philippines have yet to bear fruit, and are unlikely to have been helped by Obama’s cancellation of his planned visit to Manila.

For the Darwin deployment, a U.S. Senate Committee said in April that it would cost $1.6 billion to build lodgings for the Marines, but the Australian government last month called for only a first-stage A$12 million ($11.3 million) tender to construct new quarters at existing Australian barracks for around 350 marines.

The economic leg of the pivot, negotiations for the U.S.-led TransPacific Partnership, has grown to 12 nations. But the complex three-yearold talks, which seek unprecedented access to domestic markets, are facing resistance in many countries and are unlikely to completed soon.

A final deal would have to be approved by the U.S. Congress, raising the prospect of domestic politics again obstructing Asia ties.

“Even if the administration could push through some agreement on the TPP, it’s very unlikely there is going to be legislative success getting that through based on the acrimony that exists,” said the CSIS’s Baker. “...On the commercial side (of the pivot), there seems to be more rhetoric than action.”

Source: Reuters

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PEOPLES DAILY, MONDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2013

International

Al-Qaeda figure seized in US raids in Tripoli …Libya’s PM demands explanation for US raid

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al-Liby

S forces have captured a top al-Qaeda figure in a raid in Libya, while another raid on a Somali town failed to capture or kill the intended target belonging to the al-Shabab armed group.

The raids on Saturday came two weeks after an attack on a Nairobi mall in Kenya left at least 67 people dead.

The al-Qaeda-linked al-Shabab had claimed responsibility for the attack.

The Pentagon said senior alQaeda figure Anas al-Liby was seized in the raid in Libya. Liby, believed to be 49, has been under US indictment for his alleged role in the East Africa embassy bombings that killed 224 people.

The US government had been

offering a $5m reward for information leading to his capture, under the State Department’s Rewards for Justice programme.

“As the result of a US counterterrorism operation, Abu Anas al-Liby is currently lawfully detained by the US military in a secure location outside of Libya,” Pentagon spokesman George Little said without elaborating.

Hours later, the Libyan government sought an explanation from the US over the unauthorised military operation.

Al Jazeera’s Rosiland Jordan, reporting from Washington, said the US had hunted Liby for a long time.

“He has been on the run, at least until Saturday when forces apparently swooped down on him when he was

returning home from morning prayers and took him away.”

Meanwhile, Libya’s Prime Minister Ali Zeidanyesterday asked U.S. authorities to explain a military raid in Tripoli to capture a Libyan man wanted for bombing U.S. embassies in Africa 15 years ago, his office said.

Nazih al-Ragye, better known by the cover name Abu Anas al-Liby, was seized by U.S. forces in the Libyan capital on Saturday, the Pentagon said.

“The Libyan government is following the news of the kidnapping of a Libyan citizen who is wanted

by U.S. authorities,” Zeidan’s office said in a statement. “The Libyan government has contacted to U.S. authorities to ask them to provide an explanation.”

Violence as Egypt marks war anniversary

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n anti-coup protester has been killed and at least two wounded during a clash with police in a town south of Cairo on the day the country celebrates the 40th anniversary of an Egyptian attack on Israeli forces.

Authorities had given warning against anti-army protests, saying any protesters will be regarded as agents of foreign powers.

Hundreds of pro-military Egyptians gathered in Tahrir Square yesterday to mark the anniversary of the assault on Israeli forces in the Sinai during the 1973 war. Jet fighters staged celebratory flights over Cairo.

“Protesters against the army on the anniversary of victory will be carrying out the duties of agents, not activists,” said the presidential spokesman, Ahmed al-Muslimani. “It is not befitting to go from a struggle against authorities to a conflict with the nation.”

The warning came in response to calls by the Muslim Brotherhood for fresh demonstrations during the day. Brotherhood supporters have been staging protests against the military coup that toppled President Mohamed Mursi on July 3.

Protesters seek cover during clashes in Egypt

The Anti-Coup Alliance, a collection of bodies with different political views who are opposed to military rule in Egypt, called for demonstraitons to start from various points in Cairo and converge on Tahrir Square in the afternoon.

The anniversary of the October War is seen be many Egyptians as an incredibly significant day, and the possibility of bloodshed on Sunday was seen as a sign of escalating divisions across the

country.

Political tensions have gripped Egypt and hammered the economy since the army removed Mursi, installed an interim government and drew up a political road map it promised would bring fair elections.

On Saturday afternoon, about 1,000 anti-military protesters tried to reach the Rabaa al-Adawiya mosque area in northeast Cairo, where security forces crushed one of their protest camps in August.

All but about 50 were turned back by police, who fired tear gas, security sources said.

Interior Minister Mohamed Ibrahim said in a meeting with aides that security forces would not tolerate attempts to block roads or “spread chaos,” the state news agency reported.

“The ministry will deal with the utmost firmness and decisiveness with any of those practices, and confront any lawlessness,” it quoted him as saying.

have two weeks to form a cabinet.

It says that after the first day of national dialogue, “the government will resign with a delay not exceeding three weeks”.

AbdelhamidJlassi, one of the leaders of Ennahda, , told AFP news agency the national dialogue is not expected to start on Monday, however.

“First there will be preparatory meetings, and the date of the government’s resignation will not be determined until the start of the real national dialogue,” he said.

“Ennahda’s signature today is a major concession made in the interests of the country,” he added.

By signing the roadmap, the

Ennahda-led coalition, which has been rocked by the murder of two political opponents, economic woes

and prolonged political disputes, has agreed to step down two years after winning a general election.

Tunisians sign deal to bring end to Islamist rule

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unisia’s political rivals have agreed on a timetable for the Islamist-led ruling coalition to quit and be replaced by a government of independents.

The Islamist Ennahda party and opposition groups in the country signed a roadmap aimed at creating a new government within three weeks.

Saturday’s deal, signed in the presence of politicians and media, was brokered to end a simmering two-month crisis sparked by the assassination in July of opposition MP Mohamed Brahmi.

The document, drawn up by four mediators, foresees the nomination of an independent prime minister by the end of next week, who would then

Enhanda party leader Rashid Ghannouchi signing the deal on Saturday.

Tuareg rebels rejoin peace process in northern Mali

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uareg separatists said on Saturday they were rejoining the peace process in northern Mali, just over a week after they pulled out and accused Bamako of not respecting the terms of a truce signed in June.

The three separatist groups, including the National Movement for the Liberation of Azawad, or MNLA, rebels, made the announcement after Malian authorities released 23 insurgents last week to comply with the terms of the ceasefire signed in Ouagadougou.

“We announce the end of the suspension of our participation,” said the statement, also signed by the High Council for the Unity of Azawad, or HCUA, and the Arab Movement of Azawad, or MAA. Azawad is the name the separatists give to northern Mali.

The three groups said they would return to participation in a committee monitoring the implementation of the June agreement, including the disarmament and return of combatants to barracks and the release of prisoners.

MNLA Vice President MahamadouDjeriMaiga, called, however, for the postponement of legislative elections due on November 24 because much of the population of northern Mali was still displaced in the wake of the conflict.

The Tuareg uprising in 2012 led to a military coup in Bamako and the occupation of the northern half of Mali by Islamist militants during the subsequent chaos.

A French-led ground and air offensive drove out the Islamists, allowing the Tuareg separatists to recapture their traditional northern stronghold of Kidal.

The desert region has produced four rebellions since independence from France in 1960. Its light-skinned Tuareg people say successive black African governments in the capital have excluded them from power.

The separatists’ suspension of participation in the peace process on September 26 was quickly followed by a grenade attack that wounded two soldiers in Kidal and two days of clashes between the military and MNLA rebels in the town.

June’s ceasefire enabled national elections to take place in July and August. Ibrahim Boubacar Keita, a former prime minister, was elected by a landslide with a pledge to reunify the country and restore its pride.

PEOPLES DAILY, MONDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2013

PAGE 33

International

Syria chemical arms removal begins

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he destruction of Syria’s chemical weapons has begun, international monitors have said.

The operation is being overseen by a team from the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW).

The mission was established under a United Nations resolution, which was passed after agreement between Russia and the US. The resolution followed

international outrage at a chemical weapons attack near Damascus in August.

In an interim report, UN chemical weapons inspectors confirmed that the nerve agent sarin had been used in the attack in Ghouta on the outskirts of the city on August 21.

It was estimated to have killed hundreds of people and was blamed by the United States and other Western powers on the regime of

Bashar al-Assad. But he accuses Syrian rebels of being behind it.

“Today is the first day of destruction, in which heavy vehicles are going to run over and thus destroy missile warheads, aerial chemical bombs and mobile and static mixing and filling units,” a source with the inspection operation told the French AFP news agency.

It is not clear at which of the chemical weapons sites declared by the government, thought to number

UN chemical weapons inspectors

about 20, that Sunday’s operation is taking place.

The destruction of the stockpile, being carried out by the Syrians, is not expected to be straightforward, as some sites are in combat zones.

It is the first time the OPCW - based in The Hague - has been asked to oversee the destruction of a chemical weapons armoury during a conflict.

The Syrian government gave details of its chemical weapons arsenal last month to the OPCW under the Russia-US agreement which also provided for Damascus to join the Chemical Weapons Convention.

That arsenal is thought to include more than 1,000 tonnes of sarin and the blister agent sulphur mustard among other banned chemicals.

Under the terms of the agreement between the US and Russia Syria’s chemical weapons capability should be removed by the middle of 2014.

The speed with which the team has been able to reach the sites and start the process of destruction underlines the urgency of the mission, says the BBC’s Anna Holligan in the Hague.

It was hoped that the new climate of co-operation would help bring about a wider conference in Geneva on ending the Syrian conflict.

Suicide bomb attacks on Iraqi school, pilgrims, kill 29

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suicide bomber drove a truck packed with explosives into the playground of a primary school in northern Iraq and blew himself up, killing 14 children and their headmaster yesterday, police and medical sources said.

Another suicide bomber attacked a group of Shi’ite pilgrims on their way to visit a shrine in Baghdad, killing at least 14 people and wounding more than 30, some of them critically, police said.

No group immediately claimed responsibility for either bombing, but the tactics used point to the Sunni Islamist al Qaeda, which

views Shi’ites as non-believers and has been regaining momentum this year.

“Pools of blood, shoes and flesh are covering the ground,” said a policeman at the scene of the blast in Baghdad, which came on the anniversary of the death of a Shi’ite imam. Women and children were among the victims, the policeman said.

More than 6,000 people have been killed across the country this year, according to monitoring group Iraq Body Count, reversing a decline in sectarian bloodshed that had reached a climax in 2006-07.

The attack at the primary school followed a suicide bombing minutes earlier on a police station in the same town, Tel Afar, about 70 km (45 miles) northwest of Mosul city, where Sunni Islamist and other insurgents have a foothold. There were no casualties in the police station attack.

The majority of Tel Afar’s residents are from Iraq’s Shi’ite Turkman minority, which in recent years has been the target of killings and kidnappings.

“The fingerprints of al Qaeda are clear on both attacks,” said an official in the town who declined to be named.

Al Qaeda’s Iraqi affiliate was forced underground in 2007 after a joint offensive by U.S. troops and Sunni tribesmen.

But the group has re-emerged this year, invigorated by growing resentment towards Iraq’s Shi’iteled government, which the country’s Sunni minority accuses of marginalizing their minority sect.

Sunnis launched street protests in December after Shi’ite Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki sought the arrest of a senior Sunni politician. A bloody raid by security forces on a protest camp in April touched off a violent backlash by militants.

Khameni - the ultimate arbiter of high state policy under Iran’s unwieldy dual system of clerical and republican rule - said prior to Rouhani’s trip that he supported “heroic flexibility” in diplomacy, while cautioning that the Islamic

Republic must always remember who its foes are.

The Rouhani-Obama phone chat, the first between presidents of the two deeply estranged countries since Iran’s 1979 Islamic Revolution, capped a week of overtures by

Rouhani and his foreign minister, Mohammad JavadZarif, to the West.

The landslide election in June of Rouhani has raised hopes of a negotiated settlement to Iran’s long-running dispute with world powers over its nuclear program though it is Khameni who will make the final decision on the contours of any deal.

“We support the government’s diplomatic movement, including the trip to New York, because we trust the government and we are optimistic regarding it,” Khamenei said in a speech quoted by ISNA news agency.

“But some of what happened in New York was not proper, because the U.S. government is not trustworthy, is self-important and illogical, and breaks promises,” he said.

Iran’s Khameni supports Rouhani, faults diplomatic opening

I

ranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khameni said on Saturday he supported moderate President Hassan Rouhani’s diplomatic opening to the United States at the U.N. General Assembly last week but some aspects of it were “not proper”.

Khameni did not elaborate on his objections but also said he did not trust the United States as a negotiating partner, hinting at disapproval over an historic phone conversation between Rouhani and U.S. President Barack Obama.

But despite its reservations, Khamenei’s overall endorsement will probably protect Rouhani against conservative hardliners opposed to his pursuit of “constructive interaction” with the world to ease Iran’s economically crippling isolation.

Khameni

Asia & Middle East Israeli PM says not opposed to Iran-US negotiations

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rime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said yesterday that Israel does not object to diplomatic talks between the United States and Iran.

“We do not oppose diplomatic negotiations with Iran,” Netanyahu said at the beginning of the weekly cabinet meeting in Jerusalem.

“We insist that these negotiations lead to the dismantling of Iran’s enrichment capability. The main thing we are working to achieve is to prevent Iran’s enrichment capability,” the prime minister added, according to a statement sent by the Governmental Press Office.

Netanyahu went on saying that while Iran claims it’s aiming to reach nuclear capabilities for peaceful purposes, there are countries achieving the same capabilities “without even one centrifuge” and without uranium enrichment.

‘Whoever doesn’t want fissionable material and nuclear bomb doesn’t insist on enrichment ... therefore Iran ... must not be allowed to have enrichment capability. This is the most important point,” Netanyahu said.

Netanyahu returned on Friday from a visit to the United States, in which he set out to “expose the truth,” as he said prior to his trip, about the Iranians’ overtures toward the United States.

Netanyahu met with U.S. President Barack Obama and talked in front of the United Nations’ General Assembly on Tuesday, warning the international community that Iranian President Hassan Rouhani is a “sheep in wolf’s clothing,” trying to buy time with “smiles campaign” to carry on with Iran’s nuclear program.

He also gave interviews to local and international TV news broadcasts, including one aimed directly at the Iranian people in the BBC in Farsi on Thursday, in which he repeated his message.

Netanyahu’s hardline was slammed by Iranian President Rouhani, who said on Wednesday Israel was “upset and angry” with the signs of new emerging relationship between Iran and the United States.

Israeli members of the opposition in the parliament also criticized Netanyahu, maintaining that Israel should go with Obama and not “dwell alone.”

Netanyahu

PAGE 34

PEOPLES DAILY, MONDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2013

International

Canadian detainees released in Egypt

Greyson and Loubani were held for over six weeks without charge

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gypt’s army-backed authorities released two Canadians held without charge since political clashes in midAugust, a statement released by the Canadian foreign affairs department said.

John Greyson and TarekLoubani said they were in Cairo before going to the Gaza

Strip where Loubani was due to teach a medical course while Greyson made a documentary about him.

They went to see the protests on August 16 and were arrested at a check point, then searched and beaten, they said. The two men were taken to Cairo’s Tora prison, where members of ousted President

Europe and Americas

Mohamed Mursi’s Muslim Brotherhood are being held.

They started a 3-week hunger strike to protest against their detention on September 16. It ended on Thursday.

Their lawyer, Marwa Farouk, told Reuters they were freed from jail at about 01:00 a.m. on Sunday morning (7 p.m. EDT on Saturday) and were in the Canadian embassy a few hours later.

“The prosecutor general granted us the appeal I raised in court and they are already on a plane to Toronto,” she said.

At least 2,000 people, most of them Mursi supporters, have been arrested since he was deposed by the army on July 3.

Security forces killed hundreds on August 14, when police officers and soldiers broke up two Cairo protest camps.

Amnesty International says scores of those arrested have been deprived of basic legal rights.

Migrants rescued from sea off Italy coast

text message from a migrant aboard asking for help.

Among those rescued were 54 women and 57 children.

Earlier during the day, the coastguards had rescued 120 migrants from a sinking ship which was making its way towards Sicily.

Lampedusa tragedy The two rescues came just days after a similar fishing boat sank off Italy’s southern island of Lampedusa, killing more than 100 people.

Up to 200 migrants are still thought to be missing after the disaster.

Divers spoke of “dozens, maybe hundreds” of bodies trapped in the wreck, which lies on the seabed at a depth of around 130ft within sight of the shore of Italy’s southernmost point.

Officials said more bodies may have been lost forever due to strong currents around the island.

The 65ft migrant boat sank on Thursday after a fire was set onboard to attract attention because of a problem.

Their alliance, which came together only in the past 24 hours and was a total shock to Brazil’s political establishment, instantly creates a business-

friendly alternative to Rousseff with nationwide organization, robust financing from donors, and popularity among rich and poor voters alike.

Italy coastguard workers during the rescue operation on Saturday

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ore than 200 migrants have been rescued by Italian coastguards from a stricken boat in the rough waters just off the country’s southern coast.

Police say they received a call on Saturday from someone who received a

Brazil opposition leaders join forces against Rousseff

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wo of Brazil’s most popular opposition leaders joined forces on Saturday in an unexpected alliance that shakes up next year’s election and could pose a major challenge to President DilmaRousseff at a time when the economy is sputtering.

Marina Silva, a colorful former environment minister who was running second in polls for next year’s presidential vote, said she was setting aside her own presidential ambitions to join the center-left PSB Party and support its candidate, Pernambuco state Governor Eduardo Campos.

Silva (L) in a handshake with Campos

PEOPLES DAILY, MONDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2013

PAGE 35

Strange World

Lake in Tanzania turns animals into stone

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hen photographer Nick Brandt first visited Lake Natron, in Northern Tanzania, he was shocked by the macabre animal statues he saw aligned across its shoreline. He later found out something even more shocking – those were real animals calcified by the lake’s alkaline water.

Natron, which gives the lake its name, is a naturally occurring compound found in volcanic ash. It’s the same mineral the Egyptians used to preserve their mummies. The lake’s alkalinity is similar to that of ammonia, with a pH between 9 and 10.5, and the temperature of the water can reach 60 °C. No animal can withstand this

caustic environment and venturing into the acidic environment is usually fatal. As soon as birds and bats plunge into the waters of lakeNatron, the minerals start turning their flesh into stone and preserving them exactly as they were in their final moments.

Flamingos sometime use the predator-free salt islands that sometimes form on the lake for nesting, but it’s a risky gamble, as the photos below clearly show.

Only invertebrates, a few algae invertebrates and some fish that live near the edges of the lake can survive this environment.

“The notion of portraits of dead animals in the place where they once lived is what also drew me to photographing the creatures in the Calcified series,” Brandt explains.

“I unexpectedly found the creatures – all manner of birds and bats – washed up along the shoreline of Lake Natron in Northern Tanzania.

No-one knows for certain exactly how they die, but it appears that the extreme reflective nature of the lake’s surface confuses them, and like birds crashing into plate glass windows, they crash into the lake.

The water has an extremely high soda and salt content, so high that it would strip the ink off my Kodak film boxes within a few seconds. The soda and salt causes the creatures to calcify, perfectly preserved, as they dry. I took these creatures as I found them on the shoreline, and then placed them in ‘living’ positions, bringing them back to ‘life’, as it were. Reanimated, alive again in death.”

The amazing photos of Lake Natron’s calcified animals, as well as other photographs taken in Eastern Africa are included in Nick Brandt’s latest book, Across the Ravaged Land.

Ghost singles.com, real-life dating site for ghosts

A bird turned into stone by the lake

The blooming of the Tisza, a stunning natural phenomenon

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Ghost singles.com homepage

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re you one of those people who spent all their lives searching looking for their soulmates, but failed to find them?

Don’t let death get in the way of finding that perfect someone. Sign up on Ghostsingles.com, a new and improved dating website where life and its troubles are issues of the past and death is only the beginning.

Believe it or not, now that you’re a ghost, you have a real shot at love.

Instead of worrying about serious issues like lack of time for a real relationship and financial problems, all you need to think about these days are questions like “does my butt look too transparent” or “if a

person died in the 1850s and I died in the 1920s, does that make them too old for me?”

You can meet other single and lonely dead folks through GhostSingles.com, a fantastic website dedicated to all the ghosts out there, no matter what century they died in. If you’ve ever dreamed of dating someone like Marylin Monroe, Marie Antoinette or even Cleopatra, this is your chance.

Wondering what you should write in your Ghost Singles bio? Well, everyone seems keen on providing details about how horribly, tragically, mysteriously or suddenly they died, so you could go

with that, or if you’re really feeling creative, you could write about how you plan on spending eternity, and how interested ghosts would fit into your plans.

Haunting houses together, scaring the life out of small children, that sort of thing. Don’t forget to mention the year you died in, your height (both when standing and floating) and add a photo of your living self. No matter what those pesky Ghostbusters say, ghosts don’t photograph very well. If you’re feeling reluctant to join, feel free to start by going to the online chat room and get to know other likeminded ghosts.

amed after the river on which it takes place every year from late spring to early summer, the Blooming of the Tisza is an incredible natural phenomenon that attracts tourists from all around the world to Hungary. As millions of long-tailed mayflies reach sexual maturity, they shed their larvae skin and burst from the river in search of a mate before dying just a few hours later.

There are around 2,000 species of mayfly worldwide. Measuring up to five inches from their head to the end of their appendages, Tisza’s Palingenialongicauda, also known as the long-tailed mayfly, is Europe’s largest. Mayflies live most of their lives as larvae in large colonies on the bottom of rivers. After three years, they shed their larvae skins and emerge from the water as sexual mature adults.

Because they have a limited amount of time to reproduce -about three hours – as soon as they are able to fly, they prowl for potential

Mayflies emerging from the river

mates. Males try to pass on their genes to the next generation at any cost, often forcing themselves on the females, and even clinging to them when they are still in larvae form. This mating frenzy lasts for three or four days, during which time the whole area around the Tizsariver becomes engulfed in a seemingly impenetrable humming fog.

After mating, the females fly upstream to lay their eggs in a safe area where their offspring won’t be taken away by the strong river currents, and after just three hours as adults, they die, their tiny corpses covering the water and shores of the Tisza River like a thick coat. The Blooming of the Tizsa is not only a popular tourist attraction, but also a phenomenon crucial to the mayflies’ survival since their population has gradually decreased as a result of human settlement expansion and pollution of river systems which destroy their natural habitat.

PAGE 36

PEOPLES DAILY, MONDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2013

Digest

Power really does go to the head, says expert

By Anna Hodgekiss

B

etween the two of them, they have divided political opinion the world over.

But scientists say that British Prime Ministers Tony Blair and the late Lady Thatcher also had something else in common - the use of egotistical language during their respective periods in office.

Dubbed Hubris syndrome, it has been suggested that a number of Prime Ministers may have developed the personality disorder - known as Hubris syndrome - while in power.

Researchers at St George’s, University of London have discovered that this personality change was reflected in both Blair’s and Thatcher’s use of language.

Hubris, say the researchers, is commonly associated with a loss of contact with reality and an overestimation of one’s own competence, accomplishments or capabilities.

It is characterised by a pattern of exuberant selfconfidence, recklessness and contempt for others, and is most particularly recognised in subjects holding positions of significant power.

Fourteen clinical symptoms of Hubris syndrome have been described. People who show at least three of these could be diagnosed with the disorder.

Researchers at St George’s, University of London, searched for evidence of some of these clinical features in the language used by three British Prime Ministers – Margaret Thatcher,

British Prime Ministers Tony Blair and the late Lady Thatcher also had something else in common - the use of egotistical language during their respective periods in office David Cameron known as Hubris syndrome

Tony Blair and John Major – by examining transcribed samples of spoken language taken from Prime Minister’s Questions.

They thought that frequent use of certain words or phrases, such as ‘sure’, ‘certain’ and ‘confident’, the first person pronouns ‘I’ or ‘me’, references to God or history, might show up during ‘hubristic’ periods.

They found that ‘I’ and ‘me’ and the word ‘sure’ were among the strongest positive correlations over time in Tony Blair’s speech.

Blair’s use of the word ‘important’ also increased with time. Words and phrases that became more frequent with time

in the speeches of Lady Thatcher and Tony Blair also included the phrase ‘we shall’, while phrases that included the word ‘duties’ diminished.

The authors also found that language became more complex and less predictable during hubristic periods.

For example, Lady Thatcher’s language becomes more complex at the end of her term of office, when her decisions and judgements were opening deep divisions within her own party.

The same happened to Tony Blair’s speech during the run-up to the invasion of Iraq.

These linguistic patterns were

not reflected in the language of John Major. The relative frequency of the word ‘we’ compared to ‘I’ was in fact higher throughout the terms of office of both Thatcher and Blair than at any point of Major’s premiership.

Additionally, the changes over time in words and phrases adopted by both Thatcher and Blair appeared to mirror the time course of hubristic behaviour.

Dr Peter Garrard, the lead researcher, from St George’s, University of London, said: ‘Hubris syndrome represents a radical change in a person’s outlook, style and attitude after they acquire positions of power or

great influence.

‘They become obsessed with their self-image, excessively confident in their own judgement and dismissive of others, often leading to rash, ill thought-out decisions.

‘In other words, the acquisition of power can bring about a change in personality: it is as if power, almost literally “goes to their head”.

‘This work shows us that language can reflect this highly characteristic personality change’ The research is published in the journal Cortex.

exercise and drugs in preventing death.

Physical activity rivalled some heart drugs and outperformed stroke medicine.

The findings suggest exercise should be added to prescriptions, say the researchers.

Experts stressed that patients

should not ditch their drugs for exercise - rather, they should use both in tandem.

Prescriptions rise Too few adults currently get enough exercise. Only a third of people in England do the recommended 2.5 hours or more of moderateintensity activity, such as cycling or

fast walking, every week.

In contrast, prescription drug rates continue to rise.

There were an average of 17.7 prescriptions for every person in England in 2010, compared with 11.2 in 2000.

For the study, scientists based at the London School of Economics, Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute at Harvard Medical School and Stanford University School of Medicine trawled medical literature to find any research that compared exercise with pills as a therapy.

They identified 305 trials to include in their analysis. These trials looked at managing conditions such as existing heart disease, stroke rehabilitation, heart failure and prediabetes.

When they studied the data as a whole, they found exercise and drugs were comparable in terms of death rates.

But there were two exceptions.

Drugs called diuretics were the clear winner for heart failure patients, while exercise was best for stroke patients in terms of life expectancy.

Amy Thompson, senior cardiac

nurse at the British Heart Foundation, said that although an active lifestyle brings many health benefits, there is not enough evidence to draw any firm conclusions about the merit of exercise above and beyond drugs.

“Medicines are an extremely important part of the treatment of many heart conditions and people on prescribed drugs should keep taking their vital meds. If you have a heart condition or have been told you’re at high risk of heart disease, talk to your doctor about the role that exercise can play in your treatment.”

Dr Peter Coleman of the Stroke Association said exercise alongside drugs had a vital role that merited more research.

“We would like to see more research into the long-term benefits of exercise for stroke patients.

“By taking important steps, such as regular exercise, eating a balanced diet and stopping smoking, people can significantly reduce their risk of stroke.”

“Moderate physical activity, for example, can reduce the risk of stroke by up to 27%.”

Source: BBCNews.com

Source: Dailymail.co.uk

Exercise ‘can be as good as pills’

By Michelle Roberts

E

xercise can be as good a medicine as pills for people with conditions such as heart disease, a study has found.

The work in the British Medical Journal (BMJ) looked at hundreds of trials involving nearly 340,000 patients to assess the merits of

Short, regular bouts of exercise could add years to your life, say experts

PEOPLES DAILY, MONDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2013

PAGE 37

Northern youths want united Nigeria, back confab

By Okechukwu Okafiradi

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hree distinct youth groups in the northern part of the country yesterday disowned calls for the disintegration of the country from certain quarters of the region insisting that the proposed National Conference by President Goodluck Jonathan would only forge unity an progress in the country.

The groups, including the Northern Emancipation Network (NEN), the Northern Youths Progressive Movement (NYPM) and the Northern Youths for Change (NYC), after a three day meeting in Abuja, agreed that the proposed conference would afford Nigerians the opportunity to discuss vital

national issues.

While dismissing the fears in some quarters that the conference could lead to the disintegration of the country, the leaders of the group, including Abdul-Azeez Suleiman, Coordinator of the NEN, Barrister Abubakar Kurawa President of the NYPM and Abdul Auwalu Musa President-General of the NYC, in a statement stressed that the conference would also provide an opportunity to discuss how to reduce poverty in the land by creating wealth and moving a large majority of Nigerian youth especially northerners off the labour market.

Equally, it expressed belief that the conference will afford stakeholders the opportunity to

discuss “the challenge of internal security and negative activities of militant groups and insurgents” with the aim of proferring “sincere solutions aimed at fostering greater unity and understanding.”

The groups, however, took a swipe at a group of Northern Elders who are sponsoring campaigns against the proposed confab which has been embraced by many Nigerian leaders.

“It is shocking that this self-styled group of elders has descended so low as to sponsor media campaigns for the disintegration of the country which we all believe should not and cannot be part of the agenda of the proposed conference,” the groups said.

Quoting section 2 (1) of the

operational 1999 constitution, which emphasized the indivisibility of Nigeria, the groups noted that: “It is therefore regrettable that this group of northern elders that clearly feels threatened by the emergence of a new order in the region that is extending hands of friendship to other regional partners for the unity and collective progress of the nation should be advocating for disintegration as the position of the north.”

“It is clear that since the patriotic initiative of Major Hamza Al-Mustapha for the unity of the youth of the North and subsequent moves to reach out to youths in other regions, these so called northern elders that have feasted

on the disunity of the region since independence, have steadily grown uncomfortable.

“Since independence, this particular group of northern elders has continuously dragged the entire region into their self-serving war for ascendancy in the process of which they perpetuate their monopoly of the total available activity in the region.

“We find it contradictory and counter-productive that after investing immense human, material and intellectual resources in the Nigerian project since the 1914 amalgamation, the North should be dragged into treasonable calls for disintegration by those who are directly responsible for the region’s woes.

Ex-PDP spokesman lauds Jonathan over confab

By Lawrence Olaoye

F

Ebonyi state Governor, Chief Martin Elechi (middle), after voting at Echialike Ward 1, Ikwo Local government area of Ebonyi on Saturday, during the local government elections in the state. Photo: NAN

500 Katsina CPC members decamp to PDP From Lawal Sa’idu Funtua, Katsina

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o fewer than 500 members of the defunct Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) in Sandamu local government area of Katsina state have defected to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

A statement from the state Ministry for Local Government, signed by the ministry’s Public Relationas Officer, Adullahi Muhammad Bindawa, said the decampees were received by the state Deputy Governor, Alhaji Abdulllahi Garab Faskari, Speaker, Katsina State House of Assembly, Alhaji Ya’u Umar GwajoGwajo and Commissioner for local government, Alhaji Sani Makana.

Spokesman of the decampees, Alhaji Dan Hamza, said they were overwhelmed by the performances

of the PDP-led government in Katsina and therefore resolved to join the party to contribute their quotas in the development of the state.

He said: “I and other decampees will from now on join hands together with other members of the PDP in sustaining the tremendous achievements recorded by the PDP in the state.”

Dan Hamza applauded leaders of the PDP at both state and local government levels for their tireless efforts in moving the party forward, assuring that the decampees, will continue to support the party.

Responding, the state Deputy Governor, Alhaji Abdullahi Garba Faskari urged the decampees to feel at home as, according to him, they will be given equal opportunities with older members of the party.

Faskari also called on them

to work hard for the progress of the party and the state as a whole, saying “your support will enable the PDP maintain its leading position in the local government and the state as whole.”

ormer National Publicity Secretary of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Professor Rufa’i Ahmed Alkali, has lauded President Goodluck Jonathan for his initiative to organize the national conference.

Reacting to the setting up of the Advisory committee, Prof Alkali said President Jonathan has again demonstrated that he is a leader that is sensitive and responsive to the yearnings of his people.

Alkali declared in a statement in Abuja that various segments of the country have been clamouring for an opportunity to dialogue on the future of the country and this will afford them the opportunity to articulate their positions.

“President Goodluck Jonathan has exhibited the qualities of a democrat and a leader by acceding to the demands of Nigerians for a national dialogue. This decision can only come from a leader who feels he owe the people that gave him their mandates through the ballot box in a transparent election”.

The PDP chieftain, who was also

the chairman of the publicity subcommittee of the PDP presidential campaign organization in 2011, advised Nigerians to seize this rare opportunity to ventilate their position on how they can strengthen the bond of unity and deepen democracy in the country.

“Certainly, this is no time for grandstanding but a rare opportunity to calm nerves and discuss on how we can make the Nigeria project a success, especially as we prepare for the centenary anniversary of the amalgamation of the Nigeria”.

He appealed to Nigerians to give their support to the federal government to ensure the success of the exercise.

“All hands must be on deck to ensure this dialogue succeeds.

This is beyond political affiliation or interest and everyone that has the interest of this country at heart should avail the Advisory committee of suggestions on how to ensure the national dialogue is successful”, he said.

Prof Alkali, however, warned ethnic chauvinists and irredentists not to use anything to undermine this noble objective to threaten the future of Nigeria.

More PDP stalwarts defect to APC in Borno From Mustapha Isah Kwaru, Maiduguri

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nother set of 16 executive members of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Borno have defected to the newly registered All Progressives Congress (APC), fueling speculations that the opposition party in the state may face tough time ahead of 2015.

The decampees included the PDP chairman at Gubio Local Government, secretary ward leaders,

youth and women leaders of the party in the area.

Earlier, three out of the 19 members executive in the area led by a former House of Representatives member, Hon Fanta Gubio had about two weeks ago announced their defection into the new party, citing lack of vision and good leadership in the PDP as reasons for their movement.

However, the remaining 16 members with other party leaders in the area stormed the Maiduguri Government House yesterday to

announce their decampment into the APC. They were led by a former former PDP House of Assembly candidate in 2003 and 2007, Alhaji Mustapha Fanami and They said they resolved to move into APC after careful assessment of the performance of the government in health, education, agriculture and roads, adding that they concluded the governor and his party “have good intention for the people of the state.” They assured that they would work as studiously to move APC to success in all election in 2015.

PAGE 38

PEOPLES DAILY, MONDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2013

Politics

Confab, a grand deception, says Tinubu Y our long medical trip generated a lot of controversy, how was your surgery?

This is the first ever and the longest period of my absence from Nigeria’s political scene since 1993; it has never happened. The only time something like this happened was when I was in exile.

Since 1999 that we returned, I have never been away for more than one week not even personal vacation. I am glad that I am back.

I am fit and able. I can run 2.5 kilometre, if you want to try me, I will get down, and we can run and see who wins.

It is a great joy to be back, it is good that we are back and I really appreciate your concerns and this great gathering. I am returning today, having travelled overseas for medical attention. Among those who contributed to this are great Nigerians, well qualified, who have moved out of the country because there are no facilities, no equipment. No such opportunities in Nigeria, now the surgery was successful.

While you were away, the APC was registered by INEC, how do you feel?

I am proud to be part of the group: a set of Nigerians who are determined to say enough in the political landscape. That we should not continue to allow termites and rodents to promote corruption, unemployment, destitution, lies and unfortunately, ineptitude in government.

Our determination is to have a political platform, where true democracy will be promoted by all Nigerians. We got to a stage that we finished all the documentation before I travelled. I was confident, that we will be registered in a country where there is the rule of law. I am glad the baby was not aborted; the baby was born.

That baby is the new hope, a new platform. This new platform is a rescue platform; it is not a replica platform of the past, or of the same old way.

It’s a redefinition and rescue mission for Nigeria. You own it, all Nigerians own it, all Nigerians must be determined. Political success is not a game of bystanders; it’s not a game of spectators. You journalists own the principle of this party, the

National Leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and former Governor of Lagos state, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in this interaction with newsmen on his arrival from his medical trip abroad, accuses President Jonathan of planning to use the proposed National Conference to deceive Nigerians. Our Correspondent, Ayodele Samuel was there. Excerpts:

objectives of it and if you buy into it, you will be able to see, whether this party can rule Nigeria. And definitely we will do that.

On planned National Conference and Dialogue How long have we been talking about it? Why suddenly? There is something in political history and social history, they say beware of Greek gift. It is only a very smart rodent in a house full of little crumbs of poison that will survive the trappings of the owners. Let us, first of all, ask series of questions.

But I need to consult with my party but I see a contradiction here.

How many months to the election does he develop the urge for national dialogue? I smell deception here, this government is using deceptive strategy to run the country, when the people can’t trust the government what will they dialogue.

I will discuss with my party. I see a diversion here. I will discuss with my party. I see deception here.

I see lack of honesty and integrity here. It is time to look at our own agenda and develop it. Nigerians are being deceived. So, where is the sovereignty? What about the Electoral Act? What about the Lemu Committee? We have not had white paper or green paper out of that. Why now? How many months to the elections? Can’t you smell a good soup when it is well cooked?

Can’t you smell a bad one that stinks? Can’t you smell the odour of the deception when it is passing by?

Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu

It is left for our party and all of us to note all these development.

Some stakeholders are calling for the postponement of the 2015 polls because of the conference.

The suggestion smacked of dishonesty and fraud. That is the saying of a thief, who wants to continue to hold on to opportunity; who is enjoying and stealing and wants to continue to have that opportunity. What are you postponing about election? Is it

“

The suggestion smacked of dishonesty and fraud. That is the saying of a thief, who wants to continue to hold on to opportunity; who is enjoying and stealing and wants to continue to have that opportunity

with the head you walk or with the feet? You must stand on something; you say democracy and sovereignty of this country is about the National Assembly, but I argued then, that sovereignty belonged to the people.

Now there is a diversion. Where is the agenda? I want to say beware of the poisonous gift. But I cannot conclude here today unless I consult with my party. I can only express my own feelings. I am a democrat, if the party says go this direction, I must follow them to that direction.

What’s your comment on the recent plane crash in Lagos involving former Governor Segun Agagu’s corpse, his children and other passengers?

It is unfortunate that one of our great politician in person of former Governor Olusegun Agugu passed away suddenly and in the process of his burial there was a tragedy. So many lives were lost; it is a sad and depressing period in our country.

Regardless of political divide, he was a perfect gentleman, committed family man, patriotic democrat and with what has happened, MIC boss, the late Tunji Okunsanya, is a close friend to everyone of us. But God has done one thing, He has shown us his wonder. Despite all of these, Feyi Agugu survived, his brother in-law survived. So, he has given room for us to give thanks to God. Addressing the government, I think we are talking to a deaf ear.

Nigeria’s Aviation is a risk. We have never allowed professionals to run the aviation industry. We created too much bureaucracy, kinsmanship, ethnicity and mediocrity to intervene in our decisions. We play with the lives of Nigerians. We have no infrastructure. This runway that we landed on is one of the worst in the world. It does not meet world standards.

You allow non professionals, fraudsters, corruption, to dominate the ministry. The ministry should have nothing to do with all agencies.

The professionals in the Ministry of Aviation should be adequately trained. They should be trained and retrained to meet the world standards. You allowed mediocre to take decisions. You abuse me politically or disagree with me your plane will not fly, you can ground Amaechi anytime you want to ground him, you can recall Adams Oshiomole in the mid-air, is that the way to value peoples life? Where are the professional Hangers? It’s not the age of the aircraft that matters, it’s record of maintenances of the aircraft but when they have already compromised in their vision, they waste our valuable life and time to give us grieve and sorrow.

We have to remove corruption; that is a cancer in our society.

We have to remove ethnicism, carelessness. He is my brother he must take that job. The carelessness for qualification is a shame on this country.

Taraba crisis: Elders’ silence worrisome, says group

By Lawrence Olaoye

T

he Taraba Justice Forum has described the continued silence of the elders in the state as worrisome as it encourages some few individuals to be attempting to be ruling by proxy.

Briefing newsmen in Abuja yesterday,the General Secretary of the group,the group, Barrister John Ambulus said “ the silence of many top leaders like General

TY Danjuma and others is lending credence to all manners of insinuations of complicity in the hostage like conflict.”

He apoealed to elders of the state to stop the current conspiracy of silence and act to secure negotiated settlement in the political stalemate in the state.

“The undenied reports of collusion to rule by proxy and the strange prolonged silence are sources of worries and anxiety for

us and many Tarabians. We are still not convinced that elders of repute being fingered in the evil operations of the cabal ,are actually complicit.

But the evidence is growing by the day. We believe this fresh Call and appeal on the elders will be heeded”, he said He said the forum called on elders like General Danjuma, Jolly Nyame,Jibril Anfani and others to intervene directly and ensure that settlement and transition

to place the state on the path of development again.

“The governor’s health is in danger. He is held incommunicado and a proxy arrangement is worsening the situation in the state.

We call on our elders to act now.

We particularly appeal to General Danjuma to stop his silence on the crisis. We have said it before that his silence is being interpreted as his supporting the cabal holding our state to ransom. While we are

not believing such insinuations,it is time our dear General come clean”, Ambulus urged.

He affirmed that silence in an era of crisis can be interpreted to mean supporting the cabal and that “ time of conflict is an era for men of honour to stand for the truth which is that Governor Suntai is medically incapacitated and that transition of power to the Acting Governor is inevitable.

PAGE 39

PEOPLES DAILY, MONDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2013

BRIEFS

Man, 25, killed by friends in Nasarawa over N500

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or one Adamu Mohammed, 25, resident of Angwan Gayam area of Lafia, the Nasarawa state capital, a balance of N500 out of N4, 500 he used in purchasing a second hand mobile phone from a friend, Ali Dauda of an undisclosed address, cost him his life.

Peoples Daily gathered that the deceased, a recharge card seller, bought a second-hand set from the said Ali but was only able to pay N4000, promising to settle the balance of N500 at a later date.

Family sources, confiding in our reporter, narrated that the failure of late Adamu to offset the remaining balance, led to a public commotion between him and the phone seller, allegedly prompting Ali Dauda to resort to violence to collect the balance, which resulted in the murder of the recharge card seller.

Investigations by our reporter further revealed that on that fateful night, at around 8.30 pm on Friday, the late Adamu got a call from a supposed customer requesting him to bring recharge cards to a location along Shendam road.

Unknown to the card seller, his friend Ali, in company of three others lay in wait for him, bent on forcefully collecting the remaining N500 balance, following which the quartet descended on the unsuspecting Adamu, using machete to inflict wounds on him, leading to his death.

Sources disclosed further that after realizing what they have done, the four friends bundled the dead body of the card seller and threw it over a fence surrounding an uncompleted building adjacent to the Lafia Government House.

From Ali Abare Abubakar, Lafia

Sambo commiserates with Yuguda over losts of sister

V

ice President Mohammed Namadi Sambo has commiserated with the Bauchi State Governor, Isa Yuguda over the death of his younger sister, Late Ummi Hafsatu Ibrhaim Kuna Biri, describing her death as unfortunate and pathetic.

Late Ummi Hafsat died after a protracted illness on Wednesday in Bauchi and she had since been buried according to Islamic rites in Bauchi.

Sambo however declared that death is an inevitable end which must come to every mortal, pointing out that everything has a time and since her time to die had come, nothing would have been done to stop the death.

In his response, Bauchi State Governor, Isa Yuguda thanked the Vice President for having time out to come and sympathise with the family.

From Ahmed Kaigama, Bauchi

News Extra

Illegal immigrants: Immigration to introduce border corps

By Tobias Lengnan Dapam

I

n its determination to curb the level of illegal immigrants in to the country, the Nigeria Immigration Services (NIS) said it has gotten federal government approval for the establishment of Special Border Corps (SBC) for effective borders patrol.

Comptroller General of NIS Mr. David Shikfu Parradang said this at the weekend in Abuja, during the decoration of 34 newly promoted officers to the position

of Controllers.

He said special border officers will be equipped with special uniform and appropriate technology will be made available for them.

The 34 senior officers were part of 6, 693 officers promoted recently by the Civil Defence, Fire, Immigration and Prisons Services Board vide Ref. No. CDFIPB/PL/NIS/330.

While charging the newly promoted officers to do their best, Parradang told them to

ensure that all borders are well patrolled.

“My expectation and charge to you are clear and urgently. You must ensure that our borders are well patrolled. Make them water tight. If any irregular immigrant is intercepted in land, you must answer for it.

“I expect that you register, monitor and control all immigrants in your various commands. We must account for each and non-Nigerian in our midst where he resides, what he

does for a living. We must remove regularly with full respect to the ECOWAS protocols and the human right of those who resides in Nigeria illegally”, he said.

Also speaking at the occasion, Permanent secretary of federal Ministry of Interior, Mrs. Fatiima A. Bamidele, who represented the Minister of Interior, Comrade Abba Moro, assured that the ministry will continue to ensure that transparency was its watch word in term of promotions of deserving officers.

Two women electrocuted in Katsina From Lawal Sa’idu Funtua, Katsina

T

L-R: Executive Vice-Chairman, Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Dr. Eugene Juwah, Secretary General, Commonwealth Telecommunications Organisation (CTO), Professor Tim Kawih, and Senior Manager Programmes, CTO, Mr. Marcel Belingue, during CTO pre- conference media briefing, yesterday in Abuja. Photo: Justin Imo-owo

Mob set Police outpost ablaze in Zamfara From Ibrahim Sidi Muh’d, Gusau

O

ver 1000 aggrieved youths yesterday set ablaze the local Police outpost in Nasarawa Burkullu of Bukkuyum local government area of Zamfara state following alleged blasphemy on the Prophet of Islam uttered by

a Muslim community member.

An eye witness narrated that the un-identified suspect, allegedly insulted Prophet Muhammad in a simple dispute after which he took to his heel to a nearby Police station for security after realising the damage his blasphemous statement had sparked.

It was reported that, following

police officers refusal to release the suspect for jungle justice, the aggrieved youths decided to set the station ablaze.

Efforts to contact the Police Public Relations Officer of the Police Command, DSP Lawal Abdullahi, proved aborted as he was reported to be on his way to the scene.

ragedy struck in Katsina, yesterday as two women were electrocuted to death in Mararrabar Maska in Funtua Local Government area of Katsina state.

According to family source, the incident occurred when an elderly woman, Yahanasu attempted to display her clothes on a bare electric wire.

The source added that immediately after spreading the first set of cloth the elderly woman became electrocuted and attracted the attention of a nursing mother who attempted to help her but was also electrocuted.

Malam Nura Mararrabar Maska, the husband of the deceased nursing mother told our correspondent that, “it was while trying to help the elderly woman who was electrocuted that his wife also died. She left behind a four month old baby”.

Similarly, Nura disclosed that further tragedy was averted when a third woman that attempted to rescue the two was thrown by the electric shock.

He said “we did not take them to hospital because when we arrived all the two were already dead”.

ACMS decries menace of touts in Jabi

By Adeola Tukuru

T

he head of the Abuja Central Medical Store (ACMS), Dr Celina Asuelinmen, has decried constant menace posed by motor park touts, calling on the Abuja Environmental Protection Board (AEPB) to come to their aide in addressing the problem.

Dr Asuelinmen made this call over the weekend during the opening of Analytical laboratory in ACMS, stating that recently they had some security challenges which necessitated taking some

measures, such as installation of Close Circuit Television (CCTVs) and rehabilitation of flood lights in and around the area.

She explained that the idea of setting up an analytical lab in ACMS came into being when there were fears that a large percentage of drugs circulating in the Nigerian drug market were fake and counterfeit.

In her words: “There was the need to have a means of verifying or authenticating the quality of drugs that are supplied to our hospitals. We are all aware of the

menace fake drugs have been to our society”.

She lauded that Secretary of FCT Health Secretariat, Dr. Ademola Onakomaiya who brought the idea of setting up analytical laboratory in ACMS and saw the need to actualise the dream in his own tenure, just as he worked on a lot of laudable healthcare projects of this administration to their logical conclusion.

In his speech at the occasion, the Secretary of the FCT Health Secretariat, Dr. Ademola Onakomaiya said the

commissioning of the lab is an eloquent testimony of the FCT administration’s commitment to its transformation agenda to ensure that no effort is spread in making the residents of FCT have access to the best healthcare package one can have in the country.

He assured that the establishment of this lab could ensure that products supplied to FCT hospitals from ACMS and ultimately to the patients are certified to be safe, efficacious and guaranteed to give good therapeutic outcomes.

PAGE 40

PEOPLES DAILY, MONDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2013

News Extra

Bauchi emirate suspends 3 village heads

From Ahmed Kaigama, Bauchi

T

he Bauchi Emirate council has suspended three village heads for taking the emirate to court over appointment of new village head.

The council also directed for

immediate appointment of new acting village heads in Magama Gumau village area of Toro local government.

The District head of Toro Alh. Adamu Waziri, disclosed this at the weekend while presenting the appointment letters to the newly

selected acting heads in his palace.

Those suspended are the hamlet head of Kurfai Mal. Umar Aliyu, hamlet head of Nasarawan Magama Gumau Mal. Haruna Musa and hamlet head of Magama Gumau ta Kudu Mal. Musa Sambo.

Waziri said, the three

suspended village heads were accused of suing Bauchi Emirate council, Toro Local government and the district head of Toro in court in connection to the election of the new village head of Magama Gumau.

He further revealed that the

council approve the appointment of Mal. Sama’ila Umar as acting village head of Nasarawan Magama, Mal. Ahmed Chiroma, acting village head of Magama -ta -Kudu and Mal. Jafaru Chiroma as the acting village head of Kurfai.

Police arrest 2 suspected criminal gang in Gombe From David Hassan, Gombe

G

ombe State Police Command at the weekend said it arrested 2 suspected criminal gang at Lafiyawo village who conspired and attacked one Abdulrahman Abubakar of Bamba Barde at Wuro saki in Akko local government area of the state.

The Police in a statement signed by its Police Public Relations Officer (PRO), Gombe State Command, DSP Fwaje indicated that the hoodlums; Mohammed Saidu and Abubakar Usman attacked the victim with knife which resulted to his death.

R-L: Director, Federal Ministry of Information, Mr. Peter Dama, Plateau state Deputy Governor, Mr. Ignatius Longjon, his wife, Mrs. Mary Longjon, during the funeral service for late Mrs. Bridget Dama, on Saturday at ST. Bredans Catholic Church, Kwa, in Plateau state.

Photo: Joe Oroye

LG chairmen make case for NTA Okene From Omale Adama, Lokoja

T

he local government chairmen of the central senatorial district of Kogi state has appealed to the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), to install the necessary equipment at the NTA Okene to enhance proper transmission.

The five chairmen, from Okene, Ajaokuta, Ogori/ Magongo, Okehi, and Adavi made

the appeal yesterday when they visited the station to ascertain for themselves the problem militaing against the smooth take off of the station after several years.

Speaking on behalf of the chairmen, the chairman of Ajaokuta LGA, Aloysius Okino, expressed dismay over the deterioration of the structures and equipment at the station.

The chairmen who collectively promised to intervene in the

repair of the physical structures at the station, however, called on the management of NTA Abuja to provide all the needed technical support for the effective take off of the station.

They commended the station officials for their commitment towards ensuring that the station comes on air, saying that they would continue to provide all necessary support to ease their operation.

On the Otite Radio, the chairmen commended the effort of the state governor Capt. Idris Wada, which they said will assist revamping the stattion.

According to them, the operations of NTA Okene and the Otite radio station would promote the culture and social activities of the people of the area as well as educate and afford the people accurate and timely information.

Ogwashi-uku Dam: Chinese experts carry out assessment survey

From Prince Edward, Asaba

A

s part of efforts by the federal government to ensure that electricity is generated from the Ogwashi-uku water dam currently under construction, some Chinese experts last Thursday visited the dam site to assess the area for the construction of a sub-station and turbine for the generation of the

proposed electricity.

The expatriates were led by a team of engineers from the Federal Ministry of Water Resources, the ministry in charge of the construction of the water dam.

Speaking during the visit, the Ozomo of Ogwashi-uku, Prince Nkemjika Okolobia told Peoples Daily that with the coming of the Chinese expatriates to carry out

the assessment, there is hope that something good would be coming out of the dam, especially in the area of electricity generation for the community and beyond.

He disclosed that at the completion of the sub-station and the construction of the turbine, the megawatts generated from the waterdam would be fed into the high-tension line. He applauded the

federal government for their efforts to end the electricity problem of Ogwashi-uku and beyond.

Also speaking, Prince Okolobi commended the state government for the renovation of Aninshi Primary School, Ogwashi-uku, and disclosed that the power process would go a long way to create an enabling learning environment both for the pupils and the teachers.

Attack on Agwariavwodo: Delta police detectives search for suspects From Prince Edward, Asaba

D

elta State Police Command has mounted serious manhunt for hoodlums in the state following attack on the Delta Central Senatorial candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP),

Chief Emmanuel Agwariavwodo.

The PDP candidate who was said said to be preparing for the bye-election, was attacked with his campaign team in Kokori by hoodlums suspe cted to be boys of a kidnap kingpin, Kelvin Oniarah.

ASP Lucky Uyabeme, Police

Spokesman in the state, told Peoples Daily in Asaba that some of the culprits have been identified, pointing out that the police were doing everything possible to arrest them in their hideouts.

While confirming that some of the vehicles used by the party

members were destroyed, ASP Uyabeme further disclosed that security has been put in place to forestall further occurrence, adding that the police will not tolerate such attack on innocent persons whether at a party level or ordinary meetings.

Edo set to establish tourism master plan From Osaigbovo Iguobaro, Benin

E

do State government is set to establish a tourism master plan for better economic gains. The initiative if properly harnessed and funded could help in attracting direct foreign investment and enhance job creation.

Speaking at a one-day stakeholders meeting organised by the State Ministry of Art, culture and tourism at the weekend, Andy Ehanire, a tourism expert and Prince Yemisi Shiloh, former Commissioner for Art and culture, Ogun State, unanimously suggested a revival of over 22 major cultural heritage sites across the state which they said were on the verge of going into extinction in line with global standard.

Edo State commissioner for Art, culture and tourism, Ms Aanena Jemitola and her Lagos State counterpart, represented by Mrs Adoke Gomez, described a Supreme Court judgement, prohibiting the Nigeria Tourism Development Corporation (NTDC) from collecting certain taxes due to states across the Federation autonomy as a boost for tourism development.

On his part, Edo State Police Commissioner, Mr. Foluso Adebanjo, tasked the government and other security agencies to come out with a marshal plan on the likely security implications for hitch-free implementation of the consumer tax law in the state to avert the possibility for anyone to be cut up in the chaos.

PEOPLES DAILY, MONDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2013

PAGE 41

NFF names Dedevbo, Ayinla as Falconets’ new coaching crew A T

Akwa United aim for points to avert relegation

Stories by Albert Akota

he Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) yesterday named former Head Coach of the under-17 women’s national team, Peter Dedevbo, as Head Coach of the under-20 women’s team, the Falconets.

A statement in Abuja by Ademola Olajire, NFF’s Assistant Director (Media), said the former Flamingoes coach would be assisted by Toyin Ayinla and Haruna Uche.

Ayinla, a former captain of defunct Abiola Babes FC of Abeokuta and former coach of Gateway FC of Abeokuta, will serve as assistant coach, while Uche will serve as goalkeeper trainer.

Dedevbo was an assistant coach of the first-ever under-17 women’s team, which featured at the inaugural FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup finals in New Zealand in 2008.

He was later appointed Head Coach of the team and led it to quarter-final berths in Trinidad and Tobago in 2010 and Azerbaijan in 2012.

The statement added that Dedevbo had already swung into action by inviting to camp 30 players for screening, with the camp opening in Abuja today.

The race for tickets to the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup finals in Canada in August 2014 will get underway this month.

Nigeria’s Falconets, runnersup at the FIFA U-20 World

Cup in Germany in 2010 and semi-finalists in Japan in 2012, are up against their Burkinabe counterparts in the African first round fixtures.

The first leg match will come up in Nigeria in the last weekend of October, while the second leg comes up next month in Burkina Faso.

The invited players Saran Nnodim (Delta Queens); Victoria Aidelomon (Pelican Stars); Fasilat Adeyemo (Confluence Queens); Oluchi Ofoegbu (Delta Queens); Halimat Ayinde (Delta Queens); Bidemi Aluko (Rivers Angels); Cynthia Aku (Rivers Angels); Patience Okaeme (Delta Queens); Mabel Michael (Ibom Queens); Jiroro Idike

(Delta Queens); Osarenoma Igbinovia (Ibom Queens); Winifred Eyevbokia (Pelican Stars); Asisat Oshoala (Rivers Angels); Ebere Okoye (Nasarawa Amazons); Abosede Kayode (Bayelsa Queens); Kemi Abiodun (Delta Queens); Yetunde Adekoyejo (Bayelsa Queens); Chidinma Edeji (Bayelsa Queens); Hauwa Abdullahi (FCT Queens); Fabian Briggs (Pelican Stars); Juliana Duru (Adamawa); Joke Sangonuga (Nasarawa Amazons); Uchechi Sunday (Rivers Angels); Gladys Abasi (Rivers Angels); Sandra Chichi (Ibom Queens); Faith Alex (Pelican Stars); Mary Ologbosere (Rivers Angels); Ugo Njoku (Bayelsa Queens); Amarachi Ojimma (Bayelsa Queens)

Eagles ready for anything Ethiopia may face Zambia for Eagles test in Ethiopia, says Ogu

E

thiopia may face Zambia in a warm-up match ahead of a 2014 World Cup playoff against Nigeria after they could not secure Ghana or Cameroon.

Ethiopia welcome Nigeria on October 13 in the first leg clash for a place at next year’s World Cup in Brazil.

Ethiopian Football Federation (EFF) vice-chairman Teka Asfaw told a local radio station ShegerSport Radio that Ghana and Cameroon have rejected a warm-up against Ethiopia.

He said Ghana and Cameroon told EFF that their foreign-based players’ late arrival was the main reason for turning down Ethiopia’s request for a friendly.

Ethiopia star Alula Girma

The only chance remains for friendly match to the Walya’s seems to be with Zambia which the Zambian officials had confirmed their willingness to be in Addis Ababa as soon as their team returned from a similar friendly overseas.

Ethiopia had also proposed to Egypt, but the seven-time African champions insisted the game be played in Cairo, which officials turned down as their qualifier against Nigeria is at home.

Ethiopian Football Federation vice Chairman Teka Asfaw also disclosed that the key players Shemelse Bekele, Addis Hintsa and Getanhe Kebede will be join the rest of the squad in Addis Ababa this weekend.

Ogu - Confident

T

he Super Eagles striker John Ogu has said that the team will handle whatever Ethiopia throw at them in Addis Ababa to ensure 2014 FIFA World Cup ticket in There are reports that hosts Ethiopia have brought the game to an early kick-off and the high altitude in Addis Ababa could also work against the visitors.

The Walya Antelopes will also be counting on a massive home support to galvanise them to only their second win over their more illustrious foes on October 13 inside the National Stadium.

But Portugal-based midfielder Ogu said that nothing will stand between the African champions and the ticket to next year’s World Cup in Brazil.

“I am aware of the weather and I am sure my team mates too are. But that won’t affect us. That will not be an excuse for us as we

are looking forward to getting a favourable result from the game in Addis Ababa,” declared the player, who is back playing for his Portuguese club after he was reportedly overlooked because of international duty.

“I am ready for the match because I believe nothing will distract me, I keep working hard and preparing my mind towards the game, getting the World Cup ticket is my biggest target now.

He added: “As a Super Eagles player, my goal now is to help my country qualify for the World Cup in Brazil. We are on course and we have only Ethiopia to go past, which I am sure we will.”

The Eagles will begin training for the epic clash on Tuesday in Abuja when all 18 Europe-based professionals join up.

They will fly out to Ethiopia on two special chartered flights on Saturday, just hours to the big kick-off.

kwa United striker, Daudu Eboh, has thrown down the gauntlet to his teammates as they seek to escape the drop in the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) this season.

The Promise Keepers have failed to win in their last seven league games against Nembe City, Enyimba, Nasarawa United, Enugu Rangers, Heartland, Sharks and Kano Pillars.

The Uyo club are placed 19th in the NPFL standings with three rounds of matches to end the season and Eboh said their “remaining matches are mustwin” if they must keep their top flight status.

Eboh believes that Akwa United have been unlucky not to win in some games this season.

“Yes that’s how it is for now but these three remaining matches are must-win for the club and all the players are focused and prepared to change the club’s position on the table.

“A lot has happened and the players and management are all up now to do what it takes to win the three games left this season.

Though we’ve not been lucky in some games but this time we will get it right,” Eboh said.

Akwa United begin their battle for survival at Warri Wolves on October 12 and Eboh is confident the game will be their “turning point” in a bid to escape the fall.

“I came in the mid-season from Warri Wolves and you know we are playing our next game in Warri so that will be the turning point for Akwa United.

“Warri Wolves is my club but I need Akwa United to stay in the top division because I love the club like my own personal team.

But you’ll hear the result (against Wolves) trust me,” the Akwa United man said.

Daudu Eboh

PAGE 42

PEOPLES DAILY, MONDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2013

Sports

Aboutrika Nigeria may host ASC, says NSF President I did not nab thief for earns draw T headlines for Ahly he President, Nigeria Squash Federation (NSF), Adamu Erena, yesterday said that the federation had started preliminary work to host the 2014 Africa Squash Championships (ASC) in Abuja.

Erena said that the country was unanimously voted to host the 2014 championships at the 2013 edition held in Windhoek, Namibia.

He said that the championships for both male and female would feature players in senior and junior categories.

“Our topmost priority now

is for a successful staging of the competition. During our inaugural meeting in Abuja, it was our number one topic for discussion.

“We want to ensure that all logistics are in place for the event.

We will do all we can to ensure that we give a good account of ourselves, as a squash-loving nation.

“We will look out for sponsorship from well-meaning Nigerians that will partner with us to make the staging of the event a reality,’’ Erena said.

According to him, the

federation’s topmost priority is also to maximise the potential at our disposal for a successful hosting of the continental competition.

‘We will try as much as we can to ensure that we enhance the profile of squash in the country.

“We intend to consolidate on our success so far and we will work to improve those areas that need to be worked on.

“I have an insight on how things are and we will be working with everyone who has the interest of squash at heart,’’ Erena said.

– Onazi

Omeruo set for N Ethiopia return leg C Stories by Albert Akota

Mohamed Aboutrika

T

alismanic midfielder Mohamed Aboutrika netted an equaliser on the stroke of half-time to ensure holders Al Ahli a 1-1 draw away at Coton Sport of Cameroon yesterday’s African Champions League semifinal.

The first leg result in Garoua hands the advantage to the Egyptian club, who will host the return on Oct.20.

But their coach Mohamed Youssef will be banished to the stands after being sent off for dissent. He was red carded midway through the second half.

Coton Sport attacker Ewangue Mbongo cut inside the Ahli defence before striking home a low shot to the near post to hand the hosts a 1-0 lead after 33 minutes.

But within a minute Coton Sport were forced to clear off the line to deny Ahmed Abdulzaher’s header before Aboutrika’s silky skills conjoured up the equaliser in stoppage time at the end of the first half.

Ahli might have snuck the win had Al-Sayed Hamdi not missed a good chance just four minutes from the end.

The two teams returned 24 hours after a torrential storm saw their game abandoned just short of the hour mark on Saturday, with the pitch badly waterlogged but it evaporated sufficiently by kick off time on Sunday to allow the match to take place.

The winner of the tie meets either Esperance of Tunisia or South Africa’s Orlando Pirates.

They played out a goalless draw in their semifinal, first leg tie in Soweto on Saturday.

helsea defender Kenneth Omeruo has said he will be available for a 2014 World Cup return leg play off against Ethiopia in November.

Omeruo has made remarkable recovery from a shoulder injury and he has said he will be fit and ready to face Ethiopia in Calabar on November 16.

“Kenneth is back training with

Chelsea as expected. He has also expressed full confidence he will be fit for next month’s return leg match against Ethiopia in Nigeria,” his adviser Chika Akujobi said.

“Even left to him, he says he can play on Sunday against Ethiopia in Addis Ababa, but best to believe he will be okay for the return match.”

The 19-year-old Omeruo last featured for the Eagles during the FIFA Confederations Cup in

Brazil in June, when he dislocated his shoulder.

Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho is expected to run the rule on Omeruo once he is fully fit and it is only then that a decision would be taken whether he stays back at the London club or go on loan in January.

“The signals are looking very good for Kenneth,” said offered Akujobi, who would not wish to give more details beyond that.

Omeruo - Says he is fit again

Onazi Nabbed a mugger igeria international Ogenyi Onazi made the headlines last week when he nabbed a thief, but he has said he did not do it for that.

Onazi handed over a mugger to the police in Rome, but he insisted he was only being a good citizen.

“A few days ago, news broke about how ‘Onazi Caught a Mugger’ in the media across the world,” Onazi tweeted.

“I wish to implore you all not to overplay my action as I am only a regular young man like you out there.

“I did what I needed to do in the heat of the moment without any consideration for the headlines.

“As a matter of fact, I consider this as a wake-up call to us all about the need to be better citizens and our responsibilities....to stand up for our neighbour and society at all times.

He added: “Finally, I implore you to go out there and make out society a better place for us.

Amike urges federations for adequate preparation ahead of Commonwealth Games

T ITTF lists Lagos Classics among 2014 World Tour

T

he International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF) has listed the Lagos Classics in its 2014 World Tour.

The ITTF awarded the hosting right to Nigeria to stage the maiden 2014 Africa Top 16 Cup after the country successfully hosted the Lagos Classics.

A statement from ITTF said the President, African Table Tennis Federation (ATTF), Khaled ElSalhy, quoted the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of ITTF, Judit

Farago, as confirming the development.

“ITTF CEO has confirmed the approval of ITTF to include your very successful event, the 2nd Lagos International Classics, among the GAC World Tour Calendar of 2014.

“This means that the following: the event will be treated as a part of the top professional circuit of ITTF which is GAC Group World Tour, as an ITTF-sanctioned event.

“It will automatically be

uploaded on the ITTF Calendar for 2014, together with ITTF-Africa Top 16 Cup without any additional fees from NTTF. “This will ensure better attraction for the top players to participate and gain more points, as well as qualify for World Tour Finals,” the statement said.

The tour would hold in Lagos from June 23 to June 26, 2014, while the Africa Top 16 Cup would follow from June 27 to June 28, 2014.

he President of the Nigeria Olympians Association (NOA), Henry Amike, yesterday urged all Sports Federation to gear up for the forthcoming 2014 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland.

Amike said that the National Sports Commission (NSC) must be up and doing to ensure a creditable outing for Team Nigeria at the event.

The former national quartermiler added that the authorities must ensure that the country’s athletes were exposed to the right kind of training that would sharpen their competitive edge.

“I believe all the federations are gearing up, I’m sure the NSC and the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC) are already gearing up too.

Sports

PAGE 43

PEOPLES DAILY, MONDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2013

Chelsea late show denies Norwich City S ubstitutes Eden Hazard and Willian were on target as Chelsea beat Norwich 3-1 to claim a first away win of the Premier League season.

Jose Mourinho’s men made the 120-mile journey to Carrow Road by plane on Saturday and made a flying start when Oscar gave them a fourthminute lead after Demba Ba’s lay-off from Frank Lampard’s lofted pass.

Victory from then seemed a formality for Chelsea but it appeared anything but until a late rally.

Ba might have netted early in the second half following a cross from Ramires, who was relieved

not to concede a penalty when challenging Anthony Pilkington in the box.

Norwich levelled when Pilkington headed in from close range and had further opportunities, but Hazard finished off a ruthless counter attack and Willian curled in his first Chelsea goal to complete the win.

Preferred to Samuel Eto’o in place of the injured and suspended Fernando Torres, Ba quickly got the better of his marker, Sebastien Bassong, who was the solitary Norwich change following the win at Stoke.

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Willian scored his first Chelsea goal in style as he curled home.

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Dortmund stun, Bayern

B

ayern Leverkusen and Bayern Munich failed to take full advantage of Borussia Dortmund’s first defeat of the Bundesliga season when they drew 1-1 at the BayArena.

Pep Guardiola’s Bayern had appeared set to clinch another victory when Toni Kroos fired them in front after 29 minutes after Franck Ribery pulled the ball back, enabling him to rifle home.

But the home side was level within a minute when Manuel Neuer parried a Sebastian Boenisch effort to Sidney Sam, who scored from close range.

Thomas Mueller headed a great chance over the bar as Bayern piled on the pressure, and the result means they are a point ahead of Dortmund, who are level on points with Leverkusen.

Borussia Monchengladbach extended their 100 percent home record and brought Borussia Dortmund’s unbeaten record this season to a halt with a 2-0 win at the Borussia Park Stadion.

The foals weathered an 80-minute storm as Dortmund created numerous chances -- and then struck with a Max Kruse penalty after Mats Hummels was sent off and a Raffael goal earning the points.

Yunus Malli’s last-gasp equaliser earned Mainz a 2-2 draw with Hoffenheim and ended their four-game losing streak.

The writing appeared to be on the wall for Mainz when they fell two behind within 22 minutes, Kevin Volland and Roberto Firmino both netting their fifth goals of the season.

Eintracht Braunschweig stunned Wolfsburg at the VW-Arena as they earned their first win of the season, 2-0 at the home of their local rivals.

Stuttgart remained unbeaten under Thomas Schneider but missed the chance to move up to fourth in the Bundesliga after being held to a 1-1 draw at home to Werder Bremen.

An Adam Szalai brace and Kevin-Prince Boateng’s third goal since joining Schalke in the summer enabled the Royal Blues to bring their Champions League form to the Bundesliga stage with a 4-1 win over 10man Augsburg.

Pep Guardiola

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PAGE 44

PEOPLES DAILY, MONDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2013

Sports

Idowu face charges T over drink-driving

Potro wins Japan Open in Tokyo

op seed Juan Martin Del Potro beat last year’s runner-up Milos Raonic 7-6 (7-5) 7-5 to win the Japan Open.

The 25-year-old Argentine saved three break points in the first set before winning it with his fourth ace.

Canada’s Raonic fired down 17 aces but was broken for the only time in the match in the 11th game of the second set, and Del Potro served out the win.

Del Potro - a wildcard addition after the injured Andy Murray withdrew - takes his third title of the year.

He won in Rotterdam and

Washington DC and was runner-up at Indian Wells.

The 2009 US Open champion secured the crucial break with a backhand volley but he doublefaulted on his first match point in the next game.

However, a whipped forehand pass sealed the win and lifted the South American up from sixth to fifth in the Race to London standings for the season-ending World Tour.

Raonic moved up to 10th in the standings, with the top eight qualifying for the event which takes place at the O2 Arena from 4-11 November.

Klitschko beats Povetkin in Moscow

W

Phillips Idowu did not make it past the qualifying rounds at London 2012

O

lympic triple jumper Phillips Idowu has been charged with drinking and driving after being stopped by police in Essex.

Idowu, 34, of Epping, is alleged to have been more than twice over the drink-drive limit while driving

a Land Rover in Bridge Hill on 20 September.

He is due to appear at Chelmsford Magistrates’ Court today.

Idowu won silver at the 2008 Beijing Olympics but failed to get

through the qualifying rounds at London 2012.

Away from the track, he was appointed a MBE in 2011 for services to athletics and recently appeared in Celebrity Masterchef on BBC One.

Joshua secures first-round win over Leo

ladimir Klitschko defended his WBA, IBF and WBO world heavyweight titles with victory over Alexander Povetkin by unanimous decision.

Russian Povetkin, who was unbeaten before the fight, was put down on three occasions in the seventh round and never really troubled the champion.

All three judges scored the fight 119-104 in 37-year-old Klitschko’s favour.

Klitschko has made 15 defences in his second spell as champion and has won 61 of his 64 professional fights.

Klitschko quickly established his dominance and put Povetkin down with a short left towards the end of

the season round.

With Klitschko’s jab working well, the challenger struggled to get close and was never able to build momentum.

Klitschko produced a fierce onslaught in the seventh, sending the Russian to the canvas on three occasions, although he looked to have pushed Povetkin over for two of those.

Seemingly content to coast through the rest of the fight, Klitschko was docked a point for once again throwing Povetkin to the ground in the 11th round.

Povetkin continued to battle, even after the final bell, but Klitschko’s victory never looked in doubt.

B

ritish heavyweight hope Anthony Joshua easily won his first fight as a professional, stopping Emanuele Leo in the first round at London’s O2 Arena.

Joshua - super-heavyweight champion at the 2012 Olympics - had far too much power for his Italian opponent, who was previously unbeaten in eight fights.

Joshua floored Leo with a vicious flurry two minutes and 47 seconds into the bout and the fight was waved off.

The 23-year-old Londoner will next fight in Sheffield on 26 October.

Joshua, who turned pro on the advice of Britain’s greatest heavyweight Lennox Lewis, used his jab to good effect from the opening bell, wobbling Leo on a number of occasions before the end came.

Hearn’s task over the next 12 months will be a tricky one as he looks to protect his investment while expanding his skillset and profile with the British public.

Haile Gebrselassie

Great Scottish Run: Gebrselassie wins at course record

D

ouble Olympic gold medallist Haile Gebrselassie broke clear of Kenya’s Emmanuel Bett in the final stages to win the Great Scottish Run in Glasgow.

The 40-year-old Ethiopian, in his first appearance in Scotland, crossed the line in 61 minutes nine seconds, a record for the annual half-marathon.

Kenya’s Joseph Birech had been aiming to become the first

Wladimir Klitschko (R)

Djokovic beats Nadal in China Open final

R

afael Nadal may be set to overtake Novak Djokovic and regain the world number one spot, but he was beaten by his rival in the China Open final.

An inspired Djokovic won 6-3 6-4 against his Spanish opponent,

Williams beats Jankovic to win China Open

S Anthony Joshua

man to win three successive Great Scottish Run titles but it was Gebrselassie, 28-year-old Bett and Moroccan-born Ayad Lamdassem, 32, who soon moved clear of the field.

Gebrselassie, the world record holder at 20,000m and the onehour race, surged 100m clear of long-legged Bett with a mile to go as they headed along the Broomielaw towards the city centre.

erena Williams continued her excellent form in 2013 as she beat Jelena Jankovic 6-2 6-2 to win the China Open.

Williams appeared in pain after serving an ace in the third game of set two as Jankovic broke for the only time but the Serb was the one who had to take a medical time out

for a hip problem.

The eighth-seed then lost the next five games as 32-year-old American Williams captured her 10th title of the season.

Jankovic herself acknowledged she had been well beaten by the 17-time major singles winner, saying: “Serena was just too good and big congratulations to her.” Serena Williams

who will move to the top of the men’s rankings today after reaching the final.

Djokovic, who won the China Open for a fourth time, started strongly and set the tone for the match by breaking Nadal’s first service game as he raced into a 3-0 lead.

The break proved crucial as the Serb produced some impressive tennis, with the timing and depth of his strokes not allowing Nadal the chance to get his game going.

Djokovic dragged Nadal out wide with his serve and struck a powerful forehand into open space to wrap up the opening set after 35 minutes.

The start of the second set saw Djokovic immediately break the Spaniard again and he continued to hold the initiative in commanding style.

PAGE 45

PEOPLES DAILY, MONDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2013

Sports

P-i-c-t-o-r-i-a-l

1. Arsenal moved back to the Premier League’s summit despite their winning run coming to an end with a 1-1 draw away at West Brom.

1

2. Rafael Nadal may be set to overtake Novak Djokovic as world number one, but he is beaten by his rival in the China Open final.

3. Exeter captain Dean Mumm scores a try as the Chiefs climb above opponents Gloucester with victory in the Premiership.

2

3

4

Guangzhou Evergrande have claimed their third consecutive Chinese Super League crown after a 4-2 win over Shandong Lueng for Marcello Lippi’s men clinched the title with four matches remaining.Madrid and Barcelona all picking up second victories

PAGE 46

PEOPLES DAILY, MONDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2013

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PEOPLES DAILY, MONDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2013

Some Interesting Facts

D

id you know there is enough petrol in a full tank of a Jumbo Jet to drive the average car 4 times around the world • Did you know Sir Isaac Newton was 23 when he discovered the law of gravity • Did you know the lie detector was invented in 1921 • Did you know the world’s knowledge is growing so fast that 90% of what we will know in 50 years time will be discovered in those 50 years • Did you know the drinking straw was invented in 1886 • Did you know red light has the highest wavelength • Did you know paper money was first used in China • Did you know according to the old English time system a moment is 1 and a half minutes • Did you know oxygen, carbon, hydrogen and nitrogen make up 90% of the human body • Did you know light is electro magnetic radiation • Did you know a car travelling at 80kph (50mph) uses half its fuel to overcome wind resistance • Did you know gunpowder is formed by mixing charcoal, saltpetre and sulphur • Did you know giraffes have no vocal cords • Did you know most birds eat twice their body weight each day • Did you know a group of whales is called a pod • Did you know Kiwi birds are blind • Did you know armadillos can walk underwater

SUDODKU

Leisure

PAGE 47

• Did you know the bones of a pigeon weigh less than its feathers • Did you know the cheetah is the only cat that can’t retract it’s claws • Did you know roosters can’t crow if they can’t fully extend their necks • Did you know dolphins can hear underwater sounds from 24km (15miles) away • Did you know flamingos can only eat when their heada are upside down • Did you know the fingerprints of koala bear are indistinguishable to that of a human • Did you know a female ferret is called a jill • Did you know porcupines float in water • Did you know the last Play Boy centerfold to have staples was published in 1985 • Did you know Leonardo Da Vinci invented scissors • Did you know each year there is one ton of cement poured

for each man, woman, and child • Did you know turnips turn green when sunburnt • Did you know The US shreds 7,000 tons of worn out currency each year • Did you know moisture (not air) causes super glue to dry • Did you know americans spend $10 million a day on potato chips • Did you know artificial Christmas trees have outsold real ones every year since 1991 • Did you know 70% of all Irish barley grown goes towards the production of Guinness beer • Did you know there are 1,929,770,126,028,800 different color combinations possible on a Rubik’s Cube • Did you know all of the cobble stones used to line the streets in New York were originally stones found in the hulls of Belgian ships ballast • Did you know a Chinese checkerboard has 121 holes • Did you know Britain was the first country to use postage stamps • Did you know the average person will consume 100 tons of food and 45,424 liters (12,000 gallons) of water in their lifetime • Did you know a deck of cards should be shuffled at least 7 times before playing • Did you know the side of a hammer is called a cheek • Did you know 32% of all land in the U.S. is owned by the government • Did you know Pinocchio is Italian for ‘pine head’ • Did you know the letter W is the only letter in the alphabet that has 3 syllables (all others have 1) • Did you know the longest word that can be typed using only our right hand is ‘lollipop’

Say what?

PHOTO OF THE DAY

Grommet the humpback whale bursts through the water in celebration after members of the Whale Rescue Team managed to free sidekick Foggy off the coast of Nova Scotia, Canada.

Source: Dailymail.co.uk

www.peoplesdailyng.com

. . . putting the people first

MONDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2013

SPORTS LATEST

West Ham shock Spurs at White Hart Lane 3-0

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avel Morrison scored a superb solo goal as We st H a m e a r n e d a vital win against Tottenham to climb out of the Premier League’s bottom three.

Winston Reid’s close-range effort just after the hour gave the Hammers a first away goal of the season.

A ricochet off Ricardo Vaz Te doubled the lead before Morrison ran the length of the Spurs half to chip in.

Tottenham’s best chances fell to Jermain Defoe but he was denied by West Ham goalkeeper Jussi Jaaskelainen.

West Ham’s first away win in nine Premier League games was their first at White Hart Lane since 1999 and lifts them to 13th in the table.

Meanwhile, Spurs’ second defeat of the season ended a six-game unbeaten run and sees them drop to sixth.

It was more of a surprise given that Andre Villas-Boas’s side had the joint-tightest defence in the league, having conceded only twice before this encounter.

But the day arguably belonged to Morrison, 20, who capped a confident and hardworking display with a goal that underlined a talent that many observers have spoken of in glowing terms.

The former Manchester United player was called into the England Under-21 squad last week and this performance showed that the youngster could perhaps now turn the corner after having questions asked of his temperament.

West Ham boss Sam Allardyce took the unusual step of naming no recognised strikers in his side, as Morrison rotated with Mohamed Diame as the furthest player forward but it proved a masterstroke.

Morrison was the visitors’ most potent player in the first half and they almost took the lead when he was tripped near the edge of the box.

Rather than take a shot, Mark Noble enterprisingly scooped the ball over the wall and Kevin Nolan volleyed just wide from an angle.

ADVERT: 0803 BUSINESS: 0805 NEWS: 0814 LAGOS: 0805 0803

QUOTABLE QUOTE We are a nation with no institutional memory, no interest in history and no interest or investment in the knowledge economy unless it serves our selfish interests.

-Most Rev. Mathew Hassan Kukah, Bishop, Catholic Diocese of Sokoto

A familiar theme

The only thing we learn from history is that we learn nothing from history - Friedrich Hegel don’t understand this. President Goodluck Jonathan acted true to type and some Nigerians are yakking. On Tuesday, in an Independence Day broadcast, the president announced his intention to tread the wellbeaten path of his predecessors - national conference. It is a wellworn road used by a few that led to the destination of infamy.

To walk the talk, a 13-member advisory committee was announced. Prominent among the members are names of divisive elements that never believed in the corporate existence of the country. Putchists, irredentists and hawkers who would sell anything to make a fast buck. I dare say, informed Nigerians know the public position of these individuals on state matters. We can even hazard an educated guess or two of what their take would be. Thankfully, theirs is to advise how to go about a needless conference.

I grudgingly admit that handlers of the President are clever, almost intelligent even. Coming up with the idea of a national conference is brilliant. The idea has achieved two important goals. It has bought time for the president. Secondly, it has diverted attention from the burning issues of the day, among them massive corruption, gargantuan insecurity and serial perfidy.

Since the announcement, we have not stopped yammering.

It must be that Jonathan now knows Nigerians more than the yapping Nigerians know their leader. At what precise stage did

I

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311 689 292 327 454

MONDAY with

Ali M. Ali aliyumaliyu@yahoo.com

President Goodluck Jonathan

Jonathan transform from being “clueless” to being maradonic?

With the benefit of hindsight, our president is coming across as the smartest politician to mount the saddle of commander-inchief. He appears to totter and bumble all the way to achieve his set goals. The likes of El-Rufai talk and act intelligently without achieving a visible political goal.

Jonathan plays the dumb card and leaves the opposition gawking.

Minus any fanciful glaze, a ‘national conference’ is a handy tool for Nigeria’s leaders desirous

of dying in power. Pilloried by the opposition, derided by a section of the international community and hounded by the press, I can understand why the resort to national conference. In doing that, the current president is not exactly ‘revolutionary’. Former President Obasanjo attempted a backdoor elongation of his tenure to a third using the national political reform conference.

Anyone with the faintest idea of Obasanjo politics knows that he is foxy. His wily ways were such that he would go for the jugular when his victims would be least

I strongly believe in national dialogue. It is about time all Nigerians truthfully sat down to talk. I strongly believe that the National Assembly is better positioned to engender such kind of discourse. A conference, as it is being presently mooted, is sheer waste of time and resources. This government is reputed for two things - corruption and lack of integrity. It can’t be trusted to convene any conference because the oga at the top is serially perfidious. I couldn’t but agree with Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso that this conference is sheer waste of time. At best, it is creating jobs for the boys and political rehabilitation of some political have-been.

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expecting him. There was a time, for example, he perfected the art of having dinner with his prey before he politically devoured him in the morning as breakfast.

Late Senate President, Chuba Okadigbo is not alive to give us an insight into how Obasanjo fooled him by coming to sheath his sword in his official residence, ate pounded yam only to encourage his impeachment the following morning. But Audu Ogbeh is alive. I am pretty certain, he has not forgotten how he was muscled out as chairman of the PDP when he caught the ire of Baba Iyabo. But even a crafty Obasanjo couldn’t push through his third term agenda using the instrumentality of the conference.

Before then, in 1994, late military ruler General Sani Abacha convened the national constitutional conference. It was his response to relentless agitation by a mix breed of human rights crusaders and idle politicians.

To idea worked like magic. So effective it was that the late ruler hinged his exit from power on a date that the conference would recommend. That plan backfired because the likes of late General Shehu Musa Yar’adua, an elected delegate, networked and overwhelmed government delegates by fixing January 1996 as the terminal date of the Abacha regime.

Looking back, it apparently didn’t go down well with the man of the moment, Abacha. That marked the beginning of the cat and mouse relationship between active and retired Generals, eading ultimately to the incarceration of Yar’adua and his eventual death. The idea of national conference has been routinely abused. Ideally, a conference to jaw-jaw on the nation’s ills should elicit the shout of joy. It would accord citizens and nation to speak out freely and truthfully.

I strongly believe in national dialogue. It is about time all Nigerians truthfully sat down to talk.

I strongly believe that the National Assembly is better positioned to engender such kind of discourse. A conference, as it is being presently mooted, is sheer waste of time and resources. This government is reputed for two things - corruption and lack of integrity. It can’t be trusted to convene any conference because the oga at the top is serially perfidious. I couldn’t but agree with Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso that this conference is sheer waste of time. At best, it is creating jobs for the boys and political rehabilitation of some political have-been.

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