The Nation January 20, 2012 by The Nation

Nigeria’s widest circulating newspaper

NNPC not authorised to deduct subsidy cash

N151b pension scam uncovered

NEWS

Page 6

•N15b houses seized

•Okonjo-Iweala tells Reps probe panel

NEWS

Page 7

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TR UTH IN DEFENCE OF FREEDOM TRUTH

VOL. 7, NO. 2010 FRIDAY, JANUARY 20, 2012

N150.00

THE SIEGE OF LAGOS

•Imam AbdulRahman Ahmad (third left), Dr Kalu, Prof. Williams, Dr Braithwaite, Prof. Nwabueze, Wale Okunniyi (right) and others ... yesterday PHOTOS: DAYO ADEWUNMI

Police tear-gas Nwabueze, Braithwaite, Kalu, others Defence denies troops deployment Lagos: Fashola never called for military occupation of streets Akume, ACN Reps, CNPP demand troops withdrawal •SEE ALSO PAGE 62

PEACEFUL march – to call for troops withdrawal and respect for citizens’ rights – by respected elders and prominent citizens was smashed yesterday in Lagos. They held one another’s hands, railing against the system, their protest sparked by the January 1 withdrawal of fuel subsidy that sent petrol prices rising from

By Emmanuel Oladesu and Oziegbe Okoeki

N65 to N139. Labour and the civil society rose against the policy, calling for a strike that lasted more than one week. The government sent in troops. The police disrupted the procession at Continued on page 4

•Mr Ekunjimi, who fainted ... yesterday

N50m reward on Boko Haram suspect’s head WANTED NAME: Kabiru Umar (a.k.a. Kabiru Sokoto). The suspected mastermind of the Xmas Day bombing of St. Theresa Catholic Church, Madalla, Niger State in which scores died. ADDRESS: Bulleting Quarters, Abaji FCT HEIGHT: 5.4ft AGE: 28years COMPLEXION: Fair LANGUAGES SPOKEN: English, Hausa and Arabic

REWARD: N50,000,000

•SSS, DIA, police hunt for Kabiru Sokoto

HUGE manhunt has been launched for Boko Haram suspect Kabiru Umar (also known as Kabiru Sokoto). In the desperate battle to seize the suspected mastermind of the Christmas Day bombing are State Security Services (SSS), Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) and others, The Nation learnt yesterday. Besides, the police declared Sokoto wanted, putting a reward of N50million on his head. Sokoto was arrested by the police in Abuja last Saturday in connection with the Christmas Day bombing at the St. Theresa’s Catholic

From Yusuf Alli and Gbade Ogunwale, Abuja

Church, Madalla, Niger State in which over 40 persons died and scores injured. He was reported to have escaped from a team of policemen who escorted him to his Abaji, Federal Capital Territory (FCT) home for a search on Monday. A statement by the Force Public Relations Officer, Olusola Amore, gave the suspect’s last known address as Bulletin Quarters, Abaji, Federal Capital Territory, Abuja. According to the police, the suspect is aged 28 years, fair in complex-

ion and speaks English, Hausa and Arabic fluently. The statement reads: “The Police High Command has declared Kabiru Umar (a.k.a. Kabiru Sokoto) wanted in connection with cases of bombing and terrorism across the Northern states of the Federation, especially the Christmas-Day bombing of a church at Madalla, Niger State, which resulted into wanton destruction of lives and properties.” “Kabiru Umar, who hails from Biu, Borno State, was last known Continued on page 6

•FREE TREATMENT FOR PENSIONERS, FEES, FARES CUT IN EDO P57

THE NATION FRIDAY, JANUARY 20, 2012

NEWS DRAMATIC OF XMAS DAY BOMBING SUSPECT NEW YEARESCAPE MESSAGES Afe Babalola, Umar, Falana:

Hafiz Ringim: An era ending on a controversial note The last days in office of Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Hafiz Ringim may go down in history as his most trying, write OLUKOREDE YISHAU and GBADE OGUNWALE

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NSPECTOR-General of Police Hafiz Ringim is not a happy man. Since three days ago when a Boko Haram suspect, Kabiru Sokoto, escaped from the police’s grip, Ringim has been the butt of joke of many, who see him as incapable. For a man who has only a month to retire from the police, this is not a good note to end a career that has spanned 35 years. Before Sokoto’s escape, Ringim has been unable to tackle the menace that Boko Haram, an insurgent group with base in the northeast, has become. Under Biu’s watch, they bombed the Eagle Square; they attacked the Police Headquatres, where the IGP and other senior officers have their offices; they bombed the UN House killing scores. Aside these bombings which took place in Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory, there were several others across the country. On Christmas Day, the bombers chose Madalla, a sleepy town in Niger State to wreak havoc. And for maximum effect, they decided on a Catholic church, where many were observing the mass. There was outrage. President Goodluck Jonathan spat fire. Like he has done in attacks before then, Ringim promised to nip it in the bud. To do the job, he relied on a man many Nigerians associate with gross human rights abuse under the military regime of the late Gen. Sani Abacha: Commissioner of Police Zakari Biu. Not a few were happy when the police announced the arrest of Sokoto. Many described it as an uncommon feat in the operational history of the Police. Some also received the news of the arrest with a wait-and-see attitude, judging by the penchant of the security agencies for bungling such high profile cases at the most critical points in the past. They were proved right. The account of his arrest, as painted by the police, was as dramatic as that of his escape. According to the police, Mr. Sokoto was arrested at the Borno State Governor’s lodge, Asokoro, Abuja in company of an unnamed Air Force officer. The world is yet to be told the relationship between the Air Force officer and the fleeing Boko Haram suspect. Another member of the sect, Aliyu Tishau, who was kept in police custody for about ten months on the orders of the IGP, in a television interview, divulged what should have been useful information on the modus operandi of the sect, a lead that security agencies elsewhere would have put to optimal use. It was through Tishau’s television interview that the world got to know that he was a member of

We would think that it is a conspiracy to enable the suspect escape. It is just like the killing of the founder of Boko Haram itself which was like a cover up. Apart from the IGP, those officers that are also involved in the escape should be sacked •Ringim

the Boko Haram and that he had been in police detention for ten months. Curiously, he granted the interview as a free man and the world would not have known about his involvement in the sect’s operations if he had chosen to lie low. Also, the people would not have known about his detention and his unhindered walk into freedom, if he had quietly gone underground. The Tishau case exposed the hopelessness of the nation’s security network and the irresponsibility of some of the men at the commanding heights in the various agencies. Ringim exonerated the police from Tishau’s release. He said Tishau was released to a sister security agency for further investigation, but the agency did not return the suspect. And as a sitting IGP, he did not deem it fit to request for the return of the suspect three months after his release to the sister agency. The sister agency in question turned out to be the State Security Service (SSS), which refutted Ringim’s account of Tishau’s release. The nation was treated to a few days of blame game and the matter fizzled out. Tishau remains a free man. Case closed. But the Sokoto case may not go that way. Already, Minister of Police Affairs Caleb Olubolade has queried Ringim. Jonathan has also given a matching order that the suspect must be re-arrested. Senators yesterday added their

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voice to the debate. Their position is that whoever is found culpable must be punished. The Senate mandated its committee on Police Affairs to investigate the circumstances surrounding the escape of the suspect. Senate’s resolve to investigate the dramatic escape of the suspect followed a motion by Chairman, Senate Committee on Police Affairs, Senator Paulinus Nwagu. Nwagu described the escape of the suspect as an issue the Senate could not gloss over. He described the manner the suspect was said to have escaped as most embarrassing. The senators unanimously agreed to investigate the matter. There are posers being raised: How did the suspect, who was said to be in handcuffs, escape from the police team that was taking him to his house for a search? What was the mission of the team to the palace of the traditional ruler of Abaji, a sleepy settlement in the periphery of the capital city? Prominent Nigerians, such as Chief Afe Babalola, (SAN), Lagos activist-lawyer Femi Falana and former military administrator of Kaduna State, Abubakar Umar, believe heads must roll. The Save Nigeria Group (SNG) has caled for the removal of the IGP. Its National Coordinator, Benedict Ezeagu yesterday said: “It is unfortunate that the Nigerian security agencies are becoming so

•Afe Babalola

LL police officers in any way connected with the escape should be arrested without any delay. The ‘escape’ is a proof that some top officers in the security agencies were not ready to fight terrorism which had claimed many lives. I know that any person who is in custody of police for committing such a serious crime would be in handcuffs so how did he escape? It baffles me. This can happen only in Nigeria. If they know that the suspect was being detained for such a serious crime and they allowed him escape, then they are accessories after the fact. The escape of the suspect from the police custody is giving credence to the President’s statement that members of the Boko Haram sect have infiltrated the executive, the judiciary and the security agencies. I want to urge the president not to treat the case with levity as the whole world is watching to see how it would be handled.

weak and compromise that they play with delicate issues like a case involving a suspect that has been alleged to be a mastermind of the Xmas Day killing at Madalla. This is not the first time a prime suspect will escape from the police custody but because of the fact that this borders on a new crime that has to do with the lives of Nigerians. “Except they probe otherwise, we would think that it is a conspiracy to enable the suspect escape. It is just like the killing of the founder of Boko Haram itself which was like a cover up. Apart from the IGP, those officers that are also involved in the escape should be sacked.” Falana agrees with the SNG that Ringim must go. He said: “I am compelled to call on President Goodluck Jonathan to remove IGP Ringim without any further delay. The country needs a new IGP who will be ready to partner with the management of the state security service to combat the menace of terrorism. “Whereas he was arrested by two lorry loads of mobile policemen on Saturday, only three policemen were detailed to accompany him

yesterday to his house for a belated search. After the escape of the suspect, Mr Ringim attempted to divert the attention of the government and Nigerians by threatening to charge unarmed protesters with treason! “It was particularly embarrassing that Mr Hafiz Ringim was retained as the Inspector-General of Police after hosting a co-founder of the dangerous Boko Haram sect last year. “ Babalola said the suspect’s disapperance is a confirmation of Jonathan’s fear that Boko Haram members have infiltrated the government. The odds weigh heavilly against the IGP. His predecessor, Ogbonna Onovo, was eased out in the heat of a siege by kidnappers on the Southeast. Onovo had no clear clue as to how to stop the kidnappers. Now, calls for Ringim to quit over his inability to tame the Boko Haram menace are growing. Only a few will be surprised if he is sent on compulsory leave any time soon. Some even wonder why he is not on his terminal leave yet, given the tradition that a retiring IGP usually goes on leave before his passing out.

THE NATION FRIDAY, JANUARY 20, 2012

NEWS DRAMATIC ESCAPE OF XMAS DAY BOMBING SUSPECT Ringim, Biu, others must not go unpunished

Attacks under Ringim

OLLOWING is a timeline of religious and ethnic violence in Nigeria under the outgoing IGP: January 2010: Hundreds are reported killed after clashes between Muslim and Christian gangs in Jos, most by gunfire. Police estimate death toll at 326, although some community leaders put the figure at more than 400. March 2010 : Hundreds of people are killed in clashes between Islamic pastoralists and Christian villagers in the mostly Christian villages of Dogo Nahawa, Zot and Ratsat just south of Jos. Plateau State Commissioner for Information, Gregory Yenlong, said more than 300 people had died. December 2010: At least 80 people are killed in Dec. 24 bombings as well as in clashes two days later between Muslim

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and Christian youths in Jos. January 2011: Human Rights Watch says more than 200 people killed in violence over preceding month, with many hacked to death or burned alive in attacks on villages, and reprisal killings in Plateau state. August -September 2011: At least 70 people killed in clashes in central Plateau state since beginning of August. Cycle of violence started when Christian youths attacked Muslims as they gathered to celebrate end of Ramadan in Jos. Nov. 2011: At least 90 people killed in northeast city of Damaturu when Islamist insurgents bomb churches, mosques and police stations. Boko Haram militant sect claims responsibility. December 2011: Scores were killed on Christmas day in Madalla when Boko Haram bombed a Catholic church.

OLUBOLADE ON THE ESCAPE

•Abubakar Dangiwa

It was an unfortunate incident but measures will be put in place now to address the escape. From the ministry, I have directed the IG to carry out full investigation and even at higher level above that one, there will be another investigation to ascertain what led to the suspect’s escape. .. All steps must be taken to re-arrest the suspect. While that is pending, the officers involved, who conducted the search must be detained so that the outcome of the investigation will lead to whatever punishment will be given

•Mr. Femi Falana

LL those responsible for the alleged escape of the suspected sponsor of the Christmas day bombing at St. Theresa Catholic Church, Madalla must be brought to justice. It is unfortunate that after making such a breakthrough in their investigation into the killing of innocent Nigerians at Saint Theresa’s Catholic Church in a bomb attack, armed policemen detailed to take custody of the suspect allowed him to escape. My reactions is that not only shock that the escape of the Madalla bombing suspect which claimed 40 lives, but that Zakari Biu, the renown torturer of Abacha regime was retained in the Police Force, and reached the rank of Police Commissioner. Biu, under the Abacha regime was the torture master of those allegedly linked to coup plotting under Abacha. He was involved in human rights abuses.

AST Saturday, the police arrested the serial murderer who bombed St Theresa’s Catholic Church, in Madalla, Niger State. He was reported to have made useful statements to the police on the masterminds of the sect. In a bid to prevent him from exposing the sponsors of terrorism, he was allowed to escape yesterday in questionable circumstances. Whereas he was arrested by two lorry loads of mobile policemen on Saturday, only three policemen were detailed to accompany him yesterday to his house for a belated search. After the escape of the suspect, Mr Ringim attempted to divert the attention of the government and Nigerians by threatening to charge unarmed protesters with treason! I am compelled to call on President Goodluck Jonathan to remove IGP Ringim without any further delay. The country needs a new IGP who will be ready to partner with the management of the state security service to combat the menace of terrorism. A fortnight ago, President Goodluck Jonathan disclosed that the Federal Government had been inflitrated by the dreaded Boko Haram sect.

‘ Save Nigeria Group to Jonathan: sack IGP, others now

HE Save Nigeria Group (SNG) yesterday urged President Goodluck Jonathan to dismiss the InspectorGeneral of Police (IGP) Hafiz Ringim over the escape of the Boko Haram suspect, Kabiru Sokoto. Its National Coordinator, Benedict Ezeagu spoke with reporters in Abuja. Ezeagu said it is clear that the police can no longer secure the country. He said: “It is unfortunate that the security agencies are becoming so weak and compromised that they play with delicate issues like a case involving a suspect that has been alleged to be a mastermind of the Xmas Day killing at Madalla. This is not the first time a prime suspect will escape from the police custody but this borders on a new crime that has to do with the lives of Nigerians. “Except they probe otherwise, we would think that it is a conspiracy to enable the suspect

Tragedies in figure

Casualties of another Jos crisis in January 2010

80 People killed on December 24, 2010 violence in Jos

Estimated number of people fell btw Aug and Sept 2011 in Jos

300

700

150

The number of deaths recorded in a Jos violence in March 2010

The number of deaths recorded in Jos in November 2008

The death toll in the attack in Damaturu as at last night

How many will die next?

34 Estimated number of people who died in Madalla

326

From Gbenga Omokhunu, Abuja

escape. It is just like the killing of the founder of Boko Haram itself which was like a cove up. Apart from the IGP those officers that are also involved in the escape should be sacked.” He added: “What we (SNG) did was to make contact with the authorities concern on the escape of the Boko

Haram suspect if that was what happened and when it was confirmed that it is true we threatened the authority that we are going to lead a protest to demand that those who where involved in the escape of the suspect be brought to book. “Before now, we have been calling for the overhaul of the leadership of the security agencies

in the country. And we are repeating the same call that the security agencies we have today in the country do not represent what will guaranty the security of Nigeria and it is a very bad development at this critical time when insecurity has become the order of the day. “So, we join Nigerians and men of goodwill cross the globe to

demand that President Goodluck Jonathan should immediately overhaul the leadership of the security agencies in Nigeria, starting with the Inspector-General of Police, Hafiz Ringim. They have manifested a lot of incompetence in the way they go about carrying out their duties. Ringim and other officers involved in the escape of the Boko Haram suspect should be sacked and face the music. “And as it is guaranteed in the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the security of life and property of the citizenry is the paramount responsibility of the government. Without security, nothing will work in any society.” On the need for peace in the country, he said: “We call on all people of good conscience to rise now and join hands to find a just and peaceful way of resolving our many serious national challenges to save Nigerian from this path of destruction and carnage it is being prodded.”

THE NATION FRIDAY, JANUARY 20, 2012

NEWS Senate to probe escape of Boko Haram suspect

•Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola (second left), his Deputy Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire (second right), Commissioner for Finance Mr. Adetokunbo Abiru (left) and Secretary to the State Government, Mrs. Oluranti Adebule, during the Year 2011 Full Year/ 4th Quarter Budget Performance Review meeting with the State Executive Council and Permanent Secretaries at the Lagos House, Ikeja ... yesterday

HE Senate yesterday waded into the controversial escape from police custody of Mr. Kabiru Sokoto, a suspected mastermind of the Christmas Day bombing of St. Theresa Catholic Church Madala, Niger State. The Senate mandated its committee on Police Affairs to investigate the circumstances surrounding the escape of the suspect. The Senate’s resolve to investigate the matter following a motion by Chairman, Senate Committee on Police Affairs, Senator Paulinus Nwagu, who

From Onyedi Ojiabor and Sanni Onogu, Abuja

drew the attention to the disappearance of Sokoto. Nwagu who came under Senate Standing Order 42 (1) (Matter of urgent public importance) described the escape of the suspect as an issue the Senate cannot gloss over. He described the manner the suspect was said to have escaped as most embarrassing and sought the mandate to conduct investigation. Senate President David Mark said Nwagu discussed with him before bringing the matter to the floor of the Senate.

Soldiers in Lagos part of security patrol team, says DHQ

HE Defence Headquarters yesterday spoke on the deployment of troops in Lagos. The DHQ made its position known in a statement in Abuja by its spokesman, Col. Mohammed Yerimah. The statement said: “The attention of the Defence Headquarters has been drawn to the unsubstantiated claims by a section of the public alleging that the Federal Government ordered the deployment of troops in Lagos to halt the protest against the fuel subsidy removal. “While the Defence Headquarters do not wish to join issues with any individual or groups regarding the matter, we wish to state categorically, in the interest of the larger society, that there is no element of truth in those claims. “The soldiers seen on the streets of Lagos are still the same men of the Special Task Force code-named: Operation MESA set up and sponsored by the Lagos State Government long before the fuel subsidy protest, for the purpose of supporting the civil police in protecting lives and property as is the case in many parts of the country. “The men of the Task Force

Lagos to DHQ: show proof of your claim

HE Lagos State government last night faulted the claim by the Defence headquarters on the deployment of troops in Lagos. A statement by Commissioner for Information and Strategy Aderemi Ibirogba said: “The claim by the Military authorities that the deployment of soldiers on the streets of Lagos is at the request of the Lagos State Government is not only false but misleading. “The State Government challenges the Military authorities to show proof of the request of troops deployment in the streets of Lagos State. “Instead of simply taking the honourable path by apologising to the people of Lagos for an unpopular act, they have resorted to offering spurious and bogus claims aimed at deceiving the people. “That this claim is coming four days after the governor’s address, which he followed with a letter to the Presidency, is an obvious afterthought. It is also inconsistent with the explanation offered From Gbade Ogunwale, Abuja

who are currently in Lagos have been there and were not brought from outside Lagos. They are members of Lagos State Government sponsored Operation MESA and the de-

by the Minister of Defence who said that they deployed the soldiers in order to prevent a breakdown of law and order. “This attempt to cover up has left the public with much confusion, as the Minister of Defence offered one reason and the Military authority has offered another. They should just take the honourable path by apologising to the people of Lagos State and withdraw the soldiers forthwith. “In the prevailing political dispensation, the administration of Mr Babatunde Raji Fashola (SAN), has always been in the vanguard of democratic principles as well as civility. “In the light of the view of the governor, it will be totally irrational to expect that the governor would call on the Military to occupy the streets of Lagos. “Also, it will be recalled that His Excellency went on air to denounce most vehemently the deployment of the soldiers in Lagos. “In His Excellency’s continuous statements and actions, he has demonstrated that democracy is still the best form of dis-

mand for their withdrawal is therefore uncalled for. “The Defence Headquarters therefore wishes to reassure the Nigerian public of the Nigerian Armed Forces readiness to assist the security agencies whose primary responsibility is

pensation to make Lagos State remain a Centre of Excellence that it has been. It is therefore not right for anybody to try to use the government of Lagos State to cover up their unpopular decision. “The presence of the Police, Army and other federally-controlled security agencies in Lagos does not translate to their been under the control of the State and so the inclusion of soldiers in the joint Military patrol through OP-MESA should not be used to cover up this wrong act of drafting soldiers on the streets of Lagos to quell fuel subsidy protest which the Police has contained for five days.” Military men have been part of Operation MESA since the Obasanjo Presidency when they were brought in to join the fight against criminals, the government added. The late President Umaru Yar’Adua and President Goodluck Jonathan endorsed the continuous presence of the soldiers in the outfit. Soldiers in the team only complement the police and are never on the streets as they currently are, in Lagos, the government said.

the maintenance of peace and security in the society in the event of breakdown of law and order. “We are committed to the defence and protection of our country’s hard-earned democratic credential. More impor-

tantly, the Nigerian Armed Forces belongs to the Nigerian people and cannot be an Army of occupation as wrongly claimed. “We urge members of the public to go about their legitimate businesses without any

fear of molestation from any· quarter, and to also report any breach of the peace and security in the society to law enforcement agencies.” But the statement is at variance with that of Minister of Defence Dr. Haliru Bello at a news conference on Tuesday. The minister said: “We learnt through security reports that some people were trying to take over the protests to cause anarchy. Some of these people threatened to continue the protests even if the organised labour decided to suspend the strike. “From the reports available to government, these people were planning to ignite actions typical of what is going on in Syria and other Arab countries and there is no way any responsible government would fold its arms and watch some people destabilise any part of the country. “The deployment of soldiers was meant to forestall anarchy. So government stepped in to control the situation so that people with the wrong motives can be put in check. The soldiers will be withdrawn as soon as normalcy returns to the streets of Lagos and other parts of the country where soldiers are on such duties.”

Police tear gas Nwabueze, Braithwaite, Kalu, others Continued from page 1

Ojota, Lagos Manland. The protesters, under the aegis of the National Action Coalition (NACO), left the Lagos State House of Assembly, where they dropped their protest letter, for the Gani Fawehinmi Freedom Park, Ojota, scene of the fiveday massive protest against petrol subsidy removal. They were led by the leader of the Nigerian Advanced Party (NAP), Dr Tunji Braithwaite, 76. In the crowd were the foremost legal scholar and member of Presidential Advisory Committee, 79-year-old Prof. Ben Nwabueze (SAN), former Finance Minister Dr Kalu Idika Kalu and rights activist Dr. Tunji Abayomi. There were also foremost essayist Prof. Adebayo Williams, Arewa Youth Consultative Council leader Shettima Yerima, Lagos lawyer Festus Keyamo, Islamic cleric Abdulraham Hammad, Dr. Lakin Akintola, Nike Ransom-Kuti, Funmi Iyanda, Wale Okunniyi, Yemi Adamolekun, Kola Oyeneyin, Prof. Tony Kila,

Mr. Wale Ogunade and Dr Wale Balogun. As the police smashed the march, they also threatened to arrest the elderstatesmen. Amid the confusion, a protester, Mr. Nelson Ekunjimi, who teaches at the Lagos State University, Ojo, fainted. He was revived five minutes after. Before the procession left the Assembly Complex, Deputy Commissioner of Police Tunde Sobulo, implored them to shelve protesting at the park, warning that policemen would deal ruthlessly with them. Braithwaite objected to his suggestion, stressing that the law is not against street protests. The eminent lawyer said: “We are in a peaceful rally. As a policeman, you can come and protect us.” Sobulo ignored him. As the protesters proceeded, more people joined them along the long road. Youths in the crowd enjoined the elders to drive in their vehicles to stem the stress of the long trek. The protesters, numbering about 200, carried various placards, with inscriptions decrying troops

deployment, singing antigovernment songs. Some of the placards read: “We are not at war. Send your soldiers back to the barracks”; “All we want is N65 per litre and nothing more”; “Goodluck N65, Badluck N97”; and “Be responsible to those you are supposed to serve”. The protesters had not got to the park when they were abruptly stopped by policemen at the Seven-Up Junction, a stone throw to the late Kudirat Abiola’s statute. The police had barricaded the road before they arrived at the junction. As they advanced to the junction, the police warned them to retreat, threatening to disperse them. As the protesters made spirited attempts to explain that the rally would be peaceful, the police fired tear gas at them. In a statement, NACO condemned the assault on the eminent Nigerians, describing it as unprovoked, barbaric, undemocratic and uncivilised. At the House of Assembly, where they were received by the Deputy Speaker

Kolawole Taiwo, the NACO leader, Braithwaite, said the petrol subsidy crisis had not been resolved, contrary to the impression given by the Federal Government. He said the challenges confronting the country were beyond fuel price hike, stressing that insecurity, corruption, and lack of peoples’ constitution portend greater danger. Chiding President Goodluck Jonathan for deploying troops in Lagos, Braithwaite said: “We completely reject the deployment of soldiers in the streets. The nation is not at war. The military must not be used to intimidate Nigerians. The Armed Forces belong to us”. Former Education Secretary Nwabueze said: “This is the beginning of revolution and the move by the people to rid the country of corrupt elements, even though the leaders are scared of using the world revolution. “We want to curb the country of all its rottenness. Every aspect of the administration of this country is rotten and we cannot continue with it. I thought labour was leading

the civil society, but what they did without consultation meant that they had compromised us. But let me say that what they did was not a disappointment, but anger that should galvanise us all to action.” Nwabueze reiterated his call for a Sovereign National Conference, warning that if the government refused to convoke it, Nigerians would take their destiny in their hands. He said: “We shall demand for a Sovereign National Conference within a specified time. If they fail to convene it, we will do it ourselves.” The deputy speaker expressed the support of the House for the rally against the deployment of soldiers, saying that it had also decried it in strong terms. Urging the President to withdraw the soldiers, Kolawole said: “We are not under military rule.” Lagos State Police spokesman Samuel Jinadu defended the tear gasing of the elder statesmen. He said the police resisted them because protest was banned in the country after the strike action by the

•Prof. Williams ... yesterday

Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) to protest the removal of petrol subsidy. He said, “They were not supposed to carry out any protest, in the first place, they did not apply to us to carry out any protest, so they are not allowed to do so. We had to stop them because they were breaking the law.”

ADVERT HOTLINES: 01-280668, 08070591302, 08052592524 NEWSROOM: LAGOS – 01-8962807, ABUJA – 07028105302 COMPLAINTS: 01-8930678

THE NATION FRIDAY, JANUARY 20, 2012

NEWS Subsidy crisis:MESSAGES Reps seek review NEW YEAR of petroleum pricing laws •To pass budget in February From Victor Oluwasegun and Dele Anofi, Abuja

F members of the House of Representatives have their way, all laws relating to the pricing of petroleum product would be reviewed. The lower legislative chamber beamed its searchlight on the laws yesterday. It also expressed readiness to pass the 2012 Budget next month as it adjourned its plenary session for its various committees to concentrate on the details of the proposal The recommendation of the House might not be unconnected with the controversies generated by theJanuary 1 sudden removal of subsidy on fuel by the Federal Government. The decision of the lawmakers followed the adoption of the report of the Ad-hoc Committee set up to Interface with the executive and organised Labour over the removal of fuel subsidy. The report submitted by the Chairman of the Committee, Patrick Ikhariale, recommended: “that all laws relating to the pricing of petroleum products be reviewed and properly streamlined to prevent repetition of the crisis situation the country has just witnessed.” The report was considered at the Committee of the Whole, presided over by Deputy Speaker Emeka Ihedioha. Speaker Aminu Tambuwal, adopting the report, said the laws must be reviewed and properly streamlined in such a way as to prevent a repetition of the crisis witnessed in the country. The Bill for an Act to establish the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Resettlement, Compensation and Rehabilitation Board and for other related matters also passed second reading yesterday. Godfrey Ali Gaiya (PDP, Kaduna) who sponsored the bill said the board when established, will properly rehabilitate and compensate the aborigines of the FCT. He said: “Abuja natives’ were displaced from their ancestral homes, scattered in the FCT following the relocation of the seat of government from Lagos to Abuja, in order to allow for further expansion of the mega city. “However, the Board will enhance the capacity of the department of compensation and resettlement currently under the FCT Administration, and also facilitate the provision of accommodation, water, clinics, and other sundry infrastructural facilities for the aborigines. "Since the government saw the need to relocate the natives around the mega city to allow for further expansion of the FCT, they [aborigines] should be properly compensated for losing their ancestral homes, farms and economic trees among others. "This is so that we do not have a problem with the natives in the future as well as put an end to issues of their resettlement."

Two Lagos residents who were shot during the nationwide protests called by organised Labour over the withdrawal of petrol subsidy yesterday relived their ordeal after leaving the hospital

Our pains, by gunshot victims

OR 40-year-old Alimi Abubakar and Samuel Egbujor, 23, the pains of the recent protests over the withdrawal of petrol subsidy will remain in their hearts forever. The duo sustained gunshot wounds while plying the streets of Ogba and Pen Cinema on the outskirts. it was on the opening day of the national strike called by organised Labour and civil society organisations. Though they have been discharged from the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH), Ikeja, the wounds on their legs are yet to heal. They are, however, thankful to have lived to tell their stories. Abubakar, who claimed to have been shot by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO), in charge of Pen Cinema Police Station, Segun Fabunmi, said: “I don’t know when I will be able to use my leg again? Although I have been discharged, I still feel some pain in my left leg. I hope it heals up in time so that I can go back to my job.” The vulcaniser father of a five-year old boy told The Nation life has been difficult since the incident. Fending for a family has not been easy as he continued to depend on the generosity of people to survive. “After we were discharged at LASUTH, I contracted a nurse who has been helping me to dress the wound. Right now, I can’t

•Abubakar

•Egbujor...yesterday By Wale Adepoju

feel my leg. So, it is part of the things I will tell the doctor at the next appointment. However, I am grateful to God that I am still alive because five of us were shot but only two of us had critical cases, and of course, Damilola Abiodun, the de-

PHOTOS: WALE ADEPOJU

ceased.” Egbujor, who hails from Imo State, said life has been difficult. He said: “I can’t do most of the things that I used to do. Now, I had to depend on people to walk to the toilet. The cast of Plaster of Paris (POP) is a bit heavy.” Egbujor pleaded with the

government and well-meaning Nigerians to assist him with crutches to walk. He recounted his trip from Ogba Bus Stop before he was hit by a bullet. “I fell but I immediately got up, dragged myself so that I don’t get killed. I was so terrified that I might die,” Egbujor said.

The Big Protest: War of attrition begins

T took Nigerians the whole eight years of the Olusegun Obasanjo government to doubt whether what they had was democracy or its imitation. It is true there were no shockingly brazen attacks on the symbols and architecture of liberal democracy, or on Nigerians who, yielding to the natural human instinct for freedom, attempted to exercise their democratic rights in the boisterous atmosphere they had been used to intermittently for decades. But there were series of subversions, both physical and financial, and there were surreptitious moves to extend the frontiers of executive powers without outrightly diminishing the boundaries of legislative independence or rejigging its powers. In the end, the country transited in that amorphousness to the late Umaru Yar’Adua’s incapacitated government, panting, seething, but still expectant. They were not sure where they were, but in that hobbled atmosphere, they knew where they wanted to be. However, less than one year into the Goodluck Jonathan government, Nigerians not only know what they have, they also know where they are. They know that documents spelling out the forms of democracy are waved in their traumatised faces, and they know they would love to reach out and grab its substance, if not for themselves,

News Analysis By Kunle Fagbemi

then at least for coming generations. Sadly, as a result of the one-week subsidy battle, which they just fought and lost, they now know that the democracy they thought they had was an illusion. They know the problem is not simply because they lost that battle, or that Jonathan and his men fought back viciously. The problem is that in fighting bitterly against the citizens, Jonathan and his men, who were on oath to protect and defend the constitution, fought with no regard for the limits imposed on the president by the same constitution, and also waged their campaign as a bitter, vengeful and spiteful government that has forgotten the purpose and basis of government. The one-week subsidy war ended dramatically with the nuanced capitulation of the labour unions, and with civil society groups frozen out of the complicated bargaining that ended the strike action and street protests. The way it ended, with peace terms neither spelt out nor written on paper, it became clear the uneasy truce portended grave danger for the country. More overwhelmingly, the drafting of soldiers into the fray under the constructive corollary of insecurity deeply offended the sensibilities of every right-

thinking patriot and was bound to elicit reactions. It meant that though Jonathan secured some form of victory early Monday, it was an advantage that would be challenged, at first rhetorically, then, as the shock gradually wore off, aggressively and practically. If that violation only offended the constitution, that could be overcome with graduated abridgement of the rights of citizens. But because it also offended nature, and nature is seldom forgiving or forgetful, the violation would meet with grief sooner or later. The deployment of troops in Lagos, where the protests received global media coverage more than any other city for their panache and innovativeness, elicited the most poignant reaction. Except under the military, Lagos had never witnessed the deployment of troops for the sole purpose of undermining democratic expressions. Abuja is the formal political capital of Nigeria where the executive, legislature and judiciary lie in interwoven quietude honing their arbitrational rather than lawmaking skills. But Lagos is the face of Nigerian democracy, nay its arteries and sinews. To defeat it is to castrate Nigeria as a whole. It is, therefore, not surprising that many groups are gearing up to give physical or legal challenge to the humiliating state of emergency indirectly proclaimed by the Jonathan

government. They are angered by both the temerity of the declaration and the insufferable arrogance shown by the Defence minister, Dr. Haliru Bello Mohammed, when he announced that the troops would remain on the streets of Lagos until normality was restored. He exuded triumphalism at its degrading, provocative worst. If, as everyone knows, there was no breakdown of law and order in the first instance, what sort of normality might the boastful Defence minister be talking about? In an indication of just how quiescent the youth of Nigeria have become, the opening shot in the war of attrition has been fired by a group of elder statesmen under the aegis of National Action Coalition of Democratic Forces (NACDE). Unable to stomach the indignity of military occupation of Lagos, and knowing full well that it probably presaged the suspension of habeas corpus, the mostly over-70s led by Professor Ben Nwabueze, Dr Kalu Idika Kalu, Dr Tunji Braithwaite and Professor Adebayo Williams, among many others, took their case to the State House of Assembly before marching on the Gani Fawehinmi Park, which the soldiers had cordoned off since Monday. The legislators received them well, but policemen firing tear gas, in a scene certain to provoke bitter reaction in the coming

days and weeks, prevented them from exercising their constitutional right. The elder statesmen, who have for a long time been the conscience of a nation now battered by Jonathan’s irreverent horde, were halted half way to the Gani Park. There will be many more attempts to march on Gani Park in the coming days and weeks. The conspiracy to deploy soldiers in Lagos may be more convoluted and far deeper than the public has been told. But there are more people provoked by the open attack on the liberties granted by the constitution than the government assumes. The State House of Assembly has shown how agitated it is by the state of emergency; so too have Lagosians. The National Assembly has been strangely tongue-tied, indicating that many of its key members could be aware, as the labour unions, that the government was about to take extraordinary and unconstitutional steps to destroy the protests. There might be more conspirators. But it is unlikely the fuel subsidy protests will fizzle out. The fact is that they are driven by the inescapable and destructive consequences of poverty. The economics of the subsidy removal is completely antithetical to the politics of inclusion which the Jonathan government has disingenuously sought to foster. As the series of analyses pub-

lished in this place in the past one week show, a government incapable of deep reflection is a danger to everyone. That government has now fired the first unconstitutional shot; it is impossible for it to tell where the bullet will land or whether in fact it will not ricochet in unintended direction. Once Lagos overcomes its bewilderment, and rouses itself from slumber, it is unlikely that Jonathan can find the wisdom to placate it, or muster enough strength and courage to oppose its constitutional right to express or keep expressing itself in a way that has made the city the litmus of Nigerian democracy. The war of attrition is just beginning, and we wait to see whether Jonathan’s troops can defeat the will of more than 15 million Lagosians (not to say more than 150 million Nigerians) determined to ensure that government of the people, by the people, for the people, does not perish from Nigeria. Had Obasanjo not missed the historic opportunity to lay a solid foundation for Nigerian democracy, no one, let alone a conspiring Jonathan and his conniving economic sorcerers, would be attempting to tamper with the people’s freedom. But if Nigerians, starting from Lagos, fought the military in the 1990s to enthrone democracy, they will more enthusiastically fight a civilian president trying to invent himself as a military president.

THE NATION FRIDAY, JANUARY 20, 2012

NEWS Open screening for Lamorde From Onyedi Ojiabor, Assistant Editor and Sanni Onogu, Abuja

THE Senate yesterday resolved to throw the screening of Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) Acting Chairman Ibrahim Lamorde open. This followed a motion by the Senate Leader, Senator Victor Ndoma-Egba to consider the request of President Goodluck Jonathan for the confirmation of the nomination of Lamorde as the Chairman of EFCC in accordance with Section 2(3) of the EFCC Act 2004. Ndoma-Egba also moved that the Senate should approve that the screening and confirmation of Lamorde as EFCC boss should be done by the Committee of the Whole (entire members of the Senate) instead of referring it to the Senate Committee on EFCC. Senate President David Mark said that because of the sensitivity and interest of most Nigerians on who becomes the EFCC chairman, the screening should not be restricted to the Committee on EFCC.

N50m reward on Boko Haram suspect’s head Continued from page 1

to be residing at Bulletin Quarters, Abaji, FCT. He is aged 28 years, fair in complexion and speaks English, Hausa and Arabic languages fluently.” “The Nigeria Police has, therefore, placed a monetary reward of N50 million for anyone who has useful information regarding whereabouts of the suspect or that will lead to his arrest. “Such a person “should please report to the nearest Police Station nationwide.” Minister of Police Affairs Navy Capt. Caleb Olubolade has said he queried police chief Hafiz Ringim over Sokoto’s escape. But, it was learnt yesterday that only the President, who is the chairman of the National Security Council, not a Minister, can query the Inspector-General of Police. Ringim was yet to get the query last night. Police Commissioner Zakari Biu is on suspension over Sokoto’s escape. As the 24-hour notice given to the IGP is about to end, the police force has engaged other security agencies to re-arrest Sokoto. A source said: “As I am talking to you now, the SSS, the DIA, the Directorate of Military Intelligence and others are now involved in the manhunt for Sokoto. The manhunt has been restricted to three states. “The truth is that the police are still manually operating whereas agencies, especially the SSS, have trackers to manage this kind of situation. So, these agencies would have to come to their rescue. “All security agencies have also been placed on the alert at airports, seaports and strategic borders to re-arrest the suspect, who is said to have many travelling passports.” All international airlines have been advised to strengthen security and conduct a thorough search of passengers before boarding.”

NNPC not authorised to deduct subsidy, says Okonjo-Iweala

HE Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation never had the mandate of the Ministry of Finance to deduct subsidy cash before remitting funds to the Federation Account, Finance Minister Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala revealed yesterday. She made the revelation before the House of Representatives ad-Hoc Committee on Subsidy Management, chaired by Farouk Lawan. The minister told the committee that the NNPC was being investigated to determine where it derived such authority from. When the House Committee asked her on who was the approving authority, Mrs. Okonjo-Iweala said: “This has been a practice that was kicked in rather than any authorisation. We have actually been looking into this issue to find out who gave the authorisation. We have not been able to come up with an answer. It was a practice that was developed. I’m afraid I can’t go further than this except my colleagues will add something, I can’t give you that answer.” Her defence was in sharp contrast with the assertion by NNPC’s Group Managing Director Austen Oniwon on Wednesday. Oniwon told the committee that at no time had the corporation taken money out of the Federation Account for subsidy payment illegally. He had stated before the committee that: “I only deduct what is authorised by PPPRA. Once they give me the certificate after checking with all authorised inspectors and auditors, it is that value that constitute what is deducted as per the Appropriation Act. “I don’t go outside that, so, it is not for me to determine what is deducted from the crude’s value and before I deduct, I write to the Minister of Finance that the PPPRA has approved it for me.” Mrs. Okonjo-Iweala, who said her ministry is not aware of any authority on which the payment by the NNPC was based, but asked for more time from the committee to investigate the matter and report back with her findings. She, however, stated that the entire system required thorough clean up to free it from the huge economic wastages that was holding it back from achieving the desired development. According to her, the government was serious about

•N15 trillion lost annually by non-passage of PIB,/KPMG report

•Dr. Okongwu,(left) Mrs. Okonjo-Iweala and the Minister of State for Finance, Dr. Yarima Lawan Ngama during the probe...yesterday PHOTOS: ABAYOMI FAYESE From Victor Oluwasegun and Dele Anofi, Abuja

stemming corruption, adding that steps were being taken to block all areas of wastages in revenue. She said: “We are going to be very aggressive in recovering money owed government, we will block all revenue leakages.” On transparency in the transactions and deductions of the subsidy funds, she said: “We have two places where we interact with NNPC to know what they are deducting and remitting just to ensure transparency in their dealings. “We always make it clear and NNPC knows this. We prefer a system whereby the deductions were not made, amount due were remitted at international oil price and we could pay them for whatever products that are imported. But things got out of hand for them when price gets higher and higher and they started to deduct these. That is where we are.” The minister expressed worry over the non remittance of additional revenues generated by some agencies to the Federation Account, adding that measures were being taken to force those revenue generating agencies to obey the laws regarding full remittances to the Federation Account. She said serious changes that would culminate in the diversification of the country’s revenue base, were being introduced to take the country out of its present economic quagmire. Her words: “We are in-

vesting in non-oil sectors like agriculture, solid minerals to achieve a solid revenue diversification for the country.” Former President of the Nigeria Bar Association (NBA), Olisa Agbakoba said Nigeria was losing about N15 trillion by the non-passage of the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB) and the non-implementation of the KPMG audit report on the NNPC. According to him, Nigeria could generate N15 trillion annually from the oil sector if the KPMG report on the NNPC was implemented fully and if the PIB was given accelerated passage. The implementation of the oil and gas content law in the PIB will yield N10 trillion to the country’s coffers. If the recommendations of the KPMG audit report is fully implemented, will bring in a revenue of about N5 trillion. He said the report has exposed ‘embarrassing sharp practices’ in the NNPC and has the antidote to revealing the “thieving elements” in the oil sector. Agbakoba insisted that if the corruption in the oil sector was to be exposed and stopped, the KPMG report must be fully implemented by the Federal Government. His words: “The KPMG report is so embarrassing and a big disgrace. A substantial part of the work of this committee had been done by the KPMG and it is very unfortunate that ever since that audit was finished, nothing was done with it. The KPMG report should be fully im-

•Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Finance, Mr Danladi Kifasi...yesterday

plemented.” Agbakoba urged the House to demand the full implementation of the report which he said, was submitted September last year. On subsidy, the lawyer argued that it could be said not to exist because there is no evidence of such. “In the court, for instance, the crucial issue would have been if there was indeed a subsidy, and if there is, where is the evidence?” he said. The former NBA president noted that it was wrong to implement the deregulation policy without considering other basic and important issues in the system, adding that such an action will not yield positive results. He accused the Federal Government of not patronising indigenous business-

men and professionals, adding that by so doing, such multinational companies use Nigeria’s funds to develop their economies. He said the non-enforcement of the existing laws has made the country vulnerable to exploitation by some advanced nations that have come into the country to do business. His words: “If we want to change our country, let us implement our laws. The economy will not grow by budgeting so much money. It will grow by government empowering our people. Why does our government still bank in foreign banks? Is anything wrong with our banks? Government has to promote Nigerian businesses. We have to love ourselves first. “Mobil Oil Ltd is still importing foreign lawyers to write simple agreements. They still bring in foreign engineers while our people are here without jobs. Can you go to the United States or Britain and do that? Of course, they will not allow you to do that.” He said that it is better for the government to empower the people economically than by merely rolling out economic policies that would not be implemented. Agbakoba implored the National Assembly to pass a law that would accord Nigerians preferential treatment in business transactions with the government over their foreign competitors. However, the DirectorGeneral of the Budget Office of the Federation, Dr. Bright Okongwu, told the committee in his presentation that the much talked about Petroleum Subsidy Fund (PSF) never existed in practical terms. His words: “The PSF is a virtual account which does not really exist. What usually happens is that subsidy monies are paid from the Federation Account before the rest is shared among the three tiers of government; any time such payments are made, records are kept and it is these records that is referred to as PSF” The Director of Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR), Augustine Olorunshola, absolved his department of blame. He said it was only involved in monitoring and has nothing to do with the payment.

EFCC can’t audit NNPC, says Senate From Onyedi Ojiabor, Assistant Editor and Sanni Onogu, Abuja

•Senate Mark

President

David

HAIRMAN, Senate Committee on Public Accounts, Senator Ahmed Lawan yesterday said the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC)

has no business auditing the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC). The Minister of Petroleum Resources, Mrs Diezani Alison-Madueke had invited the anti-graft commission to investigate the NNPC based on the KPMG’s interim report during the week. Ahmed, who spoke during the 2012 budget defence by the Auditor General of the Federation in Abuja decried the apparent starving of the Office of the Auditor General of the Federation of funds by the executive. He noted that the consist-

ent reduction in the funds allocated to the office over the years has rendered the office handicapped. He said the committee would reverse the trend, including ensuring the quick passage of a Bill which would empower the office to benefit from the first line charge of the Federation Account. Lawan said: “You have to be more active so that the EFCC does not take over your work. EFCC cannot audit NNPC. They do not have the capacity. They are supposed to deal with fraud. The EFCC has no business auditing the EFCC. It is not their job. “You people have to assert yourselves. In this new year

calling the NNPC to do your job is an indictment on you. Your body language must change.” A member of the committee, Senator Ayo Akinyelure, added: “It is a deliberate action on the part of the executive to frustrate the Auditor General’s office from fighting corruption. If we say we are to fight corruption, this arm of the executive must be empowered. If they are to perform very well they have to be well funded. “It is our responsibility to make sure that the Auditor General’s office is statutorily independent of the executive to be able to perform as it should.” The Senators however be-

rated the inability of the office to couch their items of expenditure in the right language, stressing that they should endeavour to shed the negative perception of not adding value to the system. The Auditor General of the Federation, Samuel Ukura had told the Senator that his office was financially impaired to carry out its statutory functions. Ukura said the lean “envelopes” given them by the Ministry of Finance was a far cry from what they actually require to function optimally. He said the Ministry disregards their budget proposals but rather hands them whatever they feel is appropriate for them.

THE NATION FRIDAY, JANUARY 20, 2012

NEWS ASUU will end strike on Monday, says minister From Gbenga Omokhunu, Abuja

HE Minister of Education, Prof. Ruqquayatu Ahmed Rufa’i, has said the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) will call off its protracted strike on Monday, following the passage of the bill on the retirement age of university professors at 70 years. The minister spoke yesterday in Abuja at a meeting with vice-chancellors of federal universities on the bill passed last week by the National Assembly. She said it would soon be signed into law by President Goodluck Jonathan. Rufa’i said ASUU has exhausted all issues that could disallow the resolution of the crises, adding that the Federal Government would hold another meeting with the union on Monday to finally resolve the lingering problems with the union to enable students resume their academic programmes. She said: “The Federal Government is concerned and I am sure you are aware that series of meetings have taken place even with President Jonathan. We have been talking and discussing with members of ASUU. Today (yesterday), after our meeting with the vice-chancellors, we are going to meet again with ASUU on Monday. It is our hope that after that meeting, ASUU will call off its strike. The government is working and definitely we are meeting most of their demands.” The minister expressed concern over the proliferation of honorary doctorate degrees, saying it has tarnished the image of the education sub-sector. She urged vice-chancellors to check the eligibility and credibility of recipients, saying convocation ceremonies are mainly for graduating students. Prof. Rufa’i said: “I wish to renew my earlier calls and back the recent circular from the National Universities Commission (NUC) for universities to submit well in advance their schedules for convocation ceremonies. This is aimed at streamlining the planning procedures and ensuring sufficient processing time for the approval of the visitor. Invitation should henceforth be accompanied by soft and hard copies of the visitor’s draft speech.”

N151b pension scam uncovered through EFCC, says task force chief •N15b houses seized from Pension Office officials

HE Chairman of the Pension Reform Task Force Team, Alhaji Abdulrasheed Maina, yesterday said N151billion fraud was uncovered in the pension offices across the country through the assistance and intervention of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). He said houses worth about N15billion have been seized from corrupt officials in the Pension Office of the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation. About 71,133 fake pensioners have been detected by the team. Maina, who spoke in Abuja when he visited the Acting Chairman of the EFCC, Mr. Ibrahim Lamorde, added that about N24billion cash was recovered. He said: “The task force

From Yusuf Alli, Managing Editor, Northern Operation

team, in conjunction with the EFCC, traced and recovered about N24billion and N15billion worth of property from some corrupt government officials in the Office of the Head of the Civil Service Pension Department. Sixty-six illegal bank accounts with N180million were also discovered. “We are grateful to the EFCC for its assistance in this regard.” A statement by the Head of Media and Publicity of the EFCC, Wilson Uwujaren, said the task force chairman noted that pensioners have been suffering due to paucity of funds. He said the team, since its inauguration in June 2010, has realised that mismanage-

ment and graft had brought misery to pensioners. “They have been suffering due to large-scale corruption through diversion and mismanagement of pension fund, manipulation and falsification of data, non-improvement in the pension administrative structure, bureaucracy with poor, unreliable and inefficient accounting system,” the statement said. To check such anomalies, he said his team had successfully conducted nationwide biometric verification of pensioners and detected 71,133 fake pensioners. He sought the EFCC’s assistance in personnel and security for his team. Maina added: “We are increasingly getting threats to our lives from some faceless members of the public.”

The task force chief urged the EFCC to watch pension offices to find out if any scam or shadiness is being perpetrated. Lamorde hailed the cordial relationship between the two organisations, saying this should be emulated by other agencies. He said: “We must all join hands to fight this cankerworm called corruption. The scam associated with pension administration was callous and avoidable. Forty-two people are standing trial over offences relating to pension scam and more people will be prosecuted as investigation continues. “We hope the prosecution will serve as a deterrent to those who may wish to get into this callous and inhuman venture.”

Benue Assembly members walk out over Prado demand

EMBERS of the Benue State House of Assembly yesterday staged a walkout on the ongoing 2012 budget retreat organised for them and members of the State Executive Council (EXCO) at the Obudu Mountain resort in Cross River State. A member, who spoke in confidence, noted that the boycott followed the refusal of Governor Gabriel Suswam to buy a Prado Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV) for each member. He said each member had received about N10million vehicle loan and housing allowance, besides a monthly overhead of over N1million, besides their monthly salaries. The source said the lawmakers were being owed funds for their constituency offices and projects. He said he was surprised at his colleagues’ action, adding that he joined the walkout so that they would not ostracise him. The cost of the vehicles is put at about N200 million. It was learnt that such money is not available to the government at the moment. Indications that the lawmakers were unhappy began to show yesterday when they did not turn up for breakfast, after collecting their allowances for the retreat and registering at the resort. The Nation learnt that all entreaties from Speaker Dave Iorhemba to his colleagues to be patient fell on deaf ears. Efforts to reach the Speaker, who was on the high table briefly but left the hall shortly after, were unsuccessful. His phone could not reached. But Commissioner of Information and Orientation Conrad Wergba described the development as unfortunate. He was optimistic that the matter would soon be resolved.

Sacked Katsina Senators, Reps demand certificates of return

WO senators and eight House of Representatives mem-

bers of the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) from Katsina State, who were sacked from the National Assembly, have asked an Abuja Federal High Court to restore their Certificates of Return. They are: Abdu Umar Yandoma and Ahmed Stores (senators) as well as Musa Salisu, Aminu Ashiru, Murtala Isah, Muntari Dandutse, Umar K, Umar Dankawa, Tasiu Doguru and Mohammed Tukur (former House members). The defendants are the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Senate President David Mark, Speaker Aminu Tambuwal and National

From Kamarudeen Ogundele, Abuja

Assembly Clerk Salisu Maikasuwa. At the hearing of the case before Justice Gladys Olotu, yesterday, counsel to the plaintiffs, Demola Bakare, applied to amend the originating summons. He withdrew the motion on notice, where the applicants were seeking interlocutory injunctions. In the originating summons, the plaintiffs are seeking: an order declaring null and void any certificates of return issued by the first defendant to any other person or group of persons except the plaintiffs, as representatives of any of the federal constituency or senatorial district of Katsina State.

•Minister of State for Education Ezenwo Nyesom Wike (right); Minister of Education, Prof. Ruquyyatu Ahmed Rufa’i (middle) and Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Education, Prof. Nicholas Damachi, during a meeting with vice-chancellors of federal universities in Abuja...yesterday

Rep berates police over Boko Hraram suspect’s escape A

MEMBER of the House of Representatives, Opeyemi Bamidele, has blamed the police for allowing Boko Haram suspect Kabir Sokoto to escape from their custody. Bamidele, who is the Chairman, House Committee on Legislative Budget and Research, represents Ekiti Central Federal Constituency II. He noted that the way Sokoto escaped from police custody was a big embarrassment not only to Nigeria’s security network but also to its global image as a country. The lawmaker noted that the escape portrays Nigeria as unserious about solving terrorism, saying this would

Christian youths petition Jonathan From Bukola Amusan, Abuja

HE youth wing of the Christian Association of Nigeria (YOWCAN) has petitioned President Goodluck Jonathan over the escape of Kabir Sokoto, the alleged mastermind of the Christmas Day bombing of St. Theresa’s Catholic Church in Madalla, Niger State. The petition was signed by its National President, Patriot Simon, and copied to Senate President David Mark; House of Representatives Speaker Aminu Tambuwal; AttorneyGeneral of the Federation Mohammed Adoke (SAN) and the National Security Adviser (NSA). The group called for the resignation of Inspector-General of Police Hafiz Ringim.

From Sulaiman Salawudeen, Ado-Ekiti impact negatively on the efforts at attracting foreign investments into the country.

Bamidele said: “This escape of the suspect came to me as shocking news. It is an em-

barrassment to the nation. It is an embarrassment to Nigerians at home and in the Diaspora. It is a negative signal to the international community. It is an indictment on the government and on those who manage our security. “This has implication on investments. There is no doubting the fact that some people are fast becoming untouchables and they are major threats to the corporate security of Nigeria.” The lawmaker warned that the suspect’s esccape has dire consequences, saying Nigerians and members of international community would no longer take the government and the nation’s security agencies serious anytime they arrest suspects in the future.

Aliyu disagrees with party chair over indigenisation policy

IGER State Governor Babangida Aliyu and the state Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Chairman Alhaji Abdulrahman Enagi have disagreed over the indigenisation policy of the state. Enagi, who led the party’s executive to the governor following the anti-fuel subsidy

From Jide Orintunsin, Minna

removal protest in Minna, the state capital, last Wednesday, accused non-indigenes for allegedly causing the mayhem. The party chairman told Aliyu that the indigenisation policy should be reviewed because of the recurring security challenges in the state. He said: “Majority of the

youths, who participated in that violent protest, were not indigenes of the state. If the policy is reversed, all the molestations and harassment will stop.” But Aliyu said the policy would be retained, adding that anyone who wants to stay in the state would be recognised as an indigene. He said: “During the crisis, there was a senator, whose

house was attacked. His daughter and her children went to a neighbour, who is an indigene, to hide in his house. But the man refused to accept them. It was another neighbour, who is not an indigene, that hid them in his house. So, you can imagine someone you call your brother refusing you safety.”

THE NATION FRIDAY, JANUARY 20, 2012

NEWS ASUU will end strike on Monday, says minister From Gbenga Omokhunu, Abuja

N151b pension scam uncovered through EFCC, says task force chief •N15b houses seized from Pension Office officials

From Yusuf Alli, Managing Editor, Northern Operation

Benue Assembly members walk out over Prado demand

Sacked Katsina Senators, Reps demand certificates of return

WO senators and eight House of Representatives members of the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) from Katsina State, who were sacked from the National Assembly, have asked an Abuja Federal High Court to restore their Certificates of Return. They are: Abdu Umar Yandoma and Ahmed Stores (senators) as well as Musa Salisu, Aminu Ashiru, Murtala Isah, Muntari Dandutse, Umar K, Umar Dankawa, Tasiu Doguru and Mohammed Tukur (former House members). The defendants are the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Senate President David Mark, Speaker Aminu Tambuwal and National

From Kamarudeen Ogundele, Abuja

•Ekiti State Governor Kayode Fayemi (middle) with the Director, Fountain Holdings, Mr. Segun Osikalu (left); Commissioner for Commerce, Industry and Cooperatives, Reim Bodunrin (second left); Sales Manager, Ceratec Belgium, Daniel Deconinck (second right); and Group Managing Director, O’dua Investment Company, Mr. Adebayo Jimoh, after the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the state and Ceratec for the resuscitation of Ire Brick Industry in AdoEkiti...yesterday

Rep berates police over Boko Hraram suspect’s escape A

Christian youths petition Jonathan From Bukola Amusan, Abuja

From Sulaiman Salawudeen, Ado-Ekiti forts at attracting foreign investments into the country. Bamidele said: “This escape

of the suspect came to me as shocking news. It is an embarrassment to the nation. It

is an embarrassment to Nigerians at home and in the Diaspora. It is a negative signal to the international community. It is an indictment on the government and on those who manage our security. “This has implication on investments. There is no doubting the fact that some people are fast becoming untouchables and they are major threats to the corporate security of Nigeria.” The lawmaker warned that the suspect’s esccape has dire consequences, saying Nigerians and members of international community would no longer take the government and the nation’s security agencies serious anytime they arrest suspects in the future.

Aliyu disagrees with party chair over indigenisation policy

From Jide Orintunsin, Minna

THE NATION FRIDAY, JANUARY 20, 2012

NEWS Ruling on Ondo local govt case for March 21 From Damisi Ojo, Akure

THE Court of Appeal, sitting in Akure, the Ondo State capital, will rule on March 21 in the appeal filed by former local government chairmen, who served in the Dr. Olusegun Agagu administration. The chairmen are praying the court to declare their dissolution in March, 2009, illegal. Justice Kudirat KekereEkun yesterday fixed the date after listening to arguments and submissions by the counsel. Counsel to the appellants Mr. Sina Olaniyan prayed the court to allow the appeal on the premise that the former chairmen were illegally removed before the expiration of their term of office. Leading the Director of Civil Litigation, Mr. Rotimi Olamide, counsel to the second respondent, the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Eyitayo Jegede (SAN), adopted all processes in respect of both main and cross appeals and prayed the court to dismiss the case. Jegede said all the issues raised by the appellants had been addressed by the Supreme Court, which held that the Electoral Act is superior to a state’s law. Counsel to the first respondent (Governor Olusegun Mimiko) Mr. John Baiyeshea (SAN) said the subject matter of the appeal has been overtaken by events and it would be subversive of the court to act on an issue that has not or deemed not to have existed.

‘Ondo LP crisis needs solution’

Fed Govt, EFCC can’t try me, says Daniel

ORMER Ogun State Governor Gbenga Daniel yesterday told the State High Court, sitting in Abeokuta, that the Federal Government and its agent – the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) – lack the jurisdiction to try him for alleged offences committed in the state. Daniel is standing trial before Justice Olanrewaju Mabekoje on a 43-countcharge of stealing, fraudulent conversion of Ogun State property to private use and failure to truthfully declare his assets. Daniel argued that the Ogun State Government, the Ministry of Justice, the State Attorney–General and the Office of the Directorate of Public Prosecution (DPP) have not petitioned the EFCC regarding any offence committed by him. His counsel, Prof. Taiwo Osipitan, raised a motion

From Ernest Nwokolo, Abeokuta

seeking “an order quashing all the 43-count-charges on the grounds that the Federal Government and the Attorney–General of the federation lack “the locus standi” to prosecute or initiate “criminal proceedings” against Daniel regarding alleged offences committed against the Ogun State Government. Osipitan said the EFCC Chairman, on whose behalf the charges were filed, is a “non juristic entity.” He argued that only the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has the power to prosecute corruption cases and not EFCC, adding that some of the charges “are illegal and

unconstitutional,” as they infringe on Daniel’s right to “silence.” Osipitan averred that assuming EFCC succeeds with the case, assets recovered would go to the Consolidated Revenue Base of the Federation, thus making the Federal Government the beneficiary instead of the state. “What is happening is not a case of one crying more than the bereaved, but that of EFCC crying where there is no bereavement. If left unchallenged, it would amount to robbing Peter to pay Paul,” he added. EFCC’s counsel, Mr. Rotimi Jacobs, citing Wike Vs FGN AP/CA/A/85/C/2009; Comptroller of Prison Vs Adekanye 2002; and NWLR and Amadi Vs FGN 2008; said the anti–graft agency can

investigate and prosecute anybody with or without complaints from any quarters. Arguing that the Federal Government has jurisdiction to prosecute state offences, he said: “The fact that we operate a federation does not mean we should not fight corruption in states. No law says only the AGF should initiate criminal proceedings against anyone. “It is a misconception of the law to say that only Ogun State or its local governments can complain that its money has been stolen before EFCC can swing into action.” There was a heated argument between both counsel on whether Daniel should be docked or not when the case was mentioned by the court clerk. When the case was men-

tioned, Daniel stood up to signify his presence and sat down. When the clerk motioned to him to come to the dock, Osipitan, who was accompanied by two Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SANs) – Tayo Oyetibo and Mrs. Titilayo Akinlawon, objected. He said before Daniel would enter the dock, fundamental issues bordering on jurisdiction of the court and the constitutionality of the charges, have to be resolved. But Jacob insisted that Daniel must go into the dock. Justice Mabekoje went on recess for 40 minutes, and when he returned, ruled that the “accused ought to have entered the dock” and allow his counsel to argue his motion. He ordered Daniel to go into the dock and the former governor obeyed.

Ekiti fire victims get relief From Sulaiman Salawudeen, Ado-Ekiti

•Amosun presenting the textbooks to pupils...yesterday

Ogun pupils get free textbooks

From Dele Anofi, Abuja

A FACTIONAL leader of the Labour Party (LP) in Ondo State, Mr. Kunle Odidi, has said Governor Olusegun Mimiko may lose next year’s election, if the party’s internal crises are not resolved. The former House of Assembly member spoke to reporters yesterday in Abuja. Citing the mass exit of party members in recent times, Odidi said the alleged imposition of the governor’s loyalist as a factional state chairman has created a wide gulf in the LP. He said: “The belated imposition of the said loyalist was a ploy by the governor to gain total control of the party and use it to feather his political nest while in office and after his exit. “The governor’s leadership style is at variance with the principles of the party and that is why many prominent members dumped the party last December.” Odidi said the factionalisation of the party would do no one no good and urged the governor to be cautious about matters pending in court.

•Urges court to quash charges

GUN State Governor Ibikunle Amosun yesterday distributed free textbooks to pupils of public primary and secondary schools. The textbooks are on the following subjects: Mathematics, English Language, Social Studies, Basic Science, Yoruba Language, Computer Studies, Civic Education and French Language. Others are Agricultural Science, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Government, Geography, Literature in English and Economics. The event was held at the Memorial Arcade Ground in Abeokuta, the state capital. Explaining that education is a fundamental human right, Amosun said: “Education is a means of improving the quality of life of the people and an essential part of social and human development. “This explains why every credible leader in government

accords education a primary place of honour. Every child in Ogun now has the opportunity to get the best of education and compete with his/her friends in top private schools.” He urged the pupils to make good use of the textbooks and other instructional materials provided by his administration. The governor reiterated his New Year’s promise to renovate 100 secondary schools and build 50 model secondary schools across the 20 local government areas. Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology Olusegun Odubela said the Amosun administration is determined to improve the standard of education. Also at the event was Deputy Governor Segun Adesegun, House of Assembly Speaker Suraj Adekunbi, members of the Executive Council, traditional rulers, Ogun Parents/Teachers Association and representatives of pupils from all the local councils.

Fashola cautions transporters, traders on price increase

AGOS State Governor Babatunde Fashola has appealed to residents, especially traders and transporters, not to increase their prices/fares unnecessarily, following the increase of petrol pump price to N97 per litre. Fashola spoke yesterday while briefing reporters on the fourth quarter performance of the state’s 2011 budget, which recorded a performance of 77 per cent. He said the new pump price should not be an excuse for arbitrary price increment, adding that such practices will unleash more hardship

•2011 budget records 77per cent performance By Miriam Ndikanwu

on citizens. The governor also appealed to commercial bus operators, whose vehicles run on diesel, to maintain their old fares. He said the price increase applies only to petrol and not diesel, urging them to adjust their fares in the interest of the people. Fashola said: “Wherever there has not been a price change, please do not jump on the bandwagon. We must show compassion for our-

selves. “The government is working out modalities with commercial transport workers on how we can isolate vehicles that drive on petrol, identify the impact on their businesses and how we can mitigate this cost.” He said the state government is also making plans to cushion the effects of the oneweek strike by Labour on farmers, who trade on perishable goods, through compensation. On last year’s budget, Fashola said the last quarter

budget performance recorded an impressive performance of about 120 per cent, but the quarter could not be isolated from the performance of the first three quarters. He said although it is an impressive figure, it is still short of government’s 90 per cent target for the year. Fashola attributed the shortfall to some disruptions in the course of governance, especially the 2011 general elections, as well as the implementation of the N18,000 minimum wage. He said the state would improve on the performance of this year’s budget.

HE Ekiti State Government has redeemed part of its pledge to victims of a fire, which consumed a mechanic workshop in Basiri, Ado-Ekiti, the state capital, last week. Deputy Governor Mrs. Funmi Olayinka last week promised to assist the victims, who lost property worth about N2 million to the fire. Yesterday, in part fulfillment of this pledge, the government handed over a new working space to the victims. It is situated behind Odua Textile Mills in Ado-Ekiti. The deputy governor, who was represented by the Director-General of the State Enterprise and Economic Development Agency, Mr. Oska Seyi Ayeleso, said the gesture is the first phase of government’s relief plan for the victims. He described the new accommodation as “more befitting and strategic” to their trade, when compared to their former place. Ayeleso said: “This is a demonstration of this government’s commitment to the welfare of all Ekiti indigenes, especially the artisans.” He said the government plans to provide tools and electricity for the mechanics, as well as financial assistance for the erection of sheds. Responding on behalf of the victims, Mr. Idowu Ogunkuade thanked the government for coming to their aid, barely a week after the incident. He admitted that the location is good, spacious and conducive for their trade. Ogunkuade urged the government to hasten up the promised financial assistance to enable them resume work.

Afe Babalola for lecture FOUNDER of the Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD), Aare Afe Babalola (SAN), will tomorrow deliver the 13th Pastor S.A. Odunaiya Memorial Public Lecture at the auditorium of the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) in Ebute-Metta, Lagos. The theme of the lecture is: “University Education in Nigeria: Problems and Prospects.”

THE NATION FRIDAY, JANUARY 20, 2012

NEWS Filling stations sealed off From Nwanosike Onu, Awka

THE Anambra State Petroleum Task Force, headed by Obi Okwudili, yesterday sealed off filling stations that have failed to sell petrol at the approved price of N97 per litre. The task force, which was inaugurated by the government, moved from Awka to Nnewi to Onitsha and other adjourning towns to enforce the order. As a result, filling stations selling petrol between N140 and N150 per litre quickly closed their stations. Only the Mega Station belonging to the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) on the Onitsha-Enugu Expressway sold at the approved pump price. However, most people who were on the queue were frustrated as some fuel attendants became selective in their services.

Okorocha presents budget

150 displaced in Ebonyi communal crisis

NE person has been injured in a communal clash in Edukwuachi Agbaja, Izzi Local Government of Ebonyi State. Over 150 others are displaced with 17 houses destroyed and property looted. Sources said the violence started when the community demanded a piece of land belonging to the Nwaobegu family to build a secondary school but the family objected. An eyewitness, John Nwaobegu, said youths went on the rampage, destroying the family’s property. The family spokesman, Moses Nwaobegu, decried the destruction of his property and that of his relations. He said: “I got a call from my brothers that some workers of the Ministry of Land, Survey and Housing were surveying our family land. “I immediately rushed to the village and made some enquiries. They told me the

From Emma Mgbeahurike,

•17 houses destroyed ‘Some of my siblings were asked to leave the village. Right now, more than 150 of us have been sent out from our village with our property destroyed’ From Ogbonnaya Obinna, Abakaliki

community has taken over the land for the construction of a secondary school. “I came to Abakaliki to make a formal complaint to the Area Commander of the Abakaliki Area Command, who dispatched his men to the place and warned against encroaching on the land. “After the policemen’s visit, every action stopped at the family land.” Nwaobegu said some stakeholders recruited some youths to clear the land, adding that he was

never contacted by the villagers or the stakeholders on the modalities for the take over of the land. He said having exhausted all avenues for peaceful resolution, he petitioned the Commissioner of Police to intervene in the matter. “Shortly after my petition to the commissioner, the stakeholders were invited and warned not to encroach on our family land. “They went back and mobilised some youths to destroy our property and

Owerri

IMO State Governor Rochas Okorocha has presented a budget proposal of N174.3billion to the House of Assembly. The budget, christened: “The Rescue Budget”, is hinged on the need to provide quality leadership anchored on enhanced fiscal and monetary prudence. Recurrent Expenditure was allocated N47billion, which represents 27 per cent. Education got N27.3 billion, representing 22 per cent. The health sector will receive N12.725 billion for the provision and upgrading of infrastructure.

Edo CLO rejects N97 per litre From Osagie Otabor, Benin

THE Civil Liberty Organisation (CLO) in Edo State has described the N97 per litre pump price of fuel as ‘a capitalist agenda’. It said the nationwide strike had taught the government to always listen to the people.

Two lynched in Delta From Okungbowa Aiwerie, Asaba

A MOB yesterday lynched two Fulani herdsmen in Asaba, the Delta State capital. Sources said the victims were accused of attacking a policeman with a dagger. The incident, which occurred at about 7.45pm on DLA Road, attracted the mob who lynched the fellows. As at the time of filing this report last night, the identities of the victims and the injured policeman could not be ascertained. Police spokesman Charles Muka confirmed the twin incidents but said details were sketchy.

send us out of the village. “The youths went to our houses, destroyed our buildings and set others ablaze. “Some of my siblings were asked to leave the village. “Right now, more than 150 of us have been sent out of our village and our property destroyed. “We again reported the matter to the police who went to the village with one of my brothers. “The youths chased the policemen away, took my brother and almost lynched him before some policemen from Iboko Police Station rescued him.” Nwaobegu urged Governor Martin Elechi to intervene in the crisis. The Commissioner for Border Security and Conflict Resolution, Donatus Ajah, said the ministry has summoned the coordinator of the Development Centre, the council chairman and monarchs for a peaceful resolution of the crisis. Police spokesman John Eluu could not be reached for comments.

Uduaghan warns Christians against retaliation

ELTA State Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan yesterday appealed to Christians not to carry out retaliatory attacks on Muslims in the state. Uduaghan, at a meeting with Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), urged Christian leaders to propagate the message of peaceful co-existence to their congregation. He said the meeting was to intimate the clerics with recent security and economic challenges in the state. The governor lamented that the state had witnessed an upsurge in criminal activities. His words: “There was fear of reprisal attacks due to the activities of Boko Haram and

From Ugochukwu Eke, Umuahia

HE Abia State House of Assembly has passed a resolution, calling for the return of the headquarters of Obingwa Local Government to Mgboko-Amairi. The local government headquarters was moved to Ohanzu because of the rise in crimes in the area. Speaker Ude Okochukwu announced the resolution, following the recommendation of the Committee on Chieftaincy Affairs and Local Government on the return of the headquarters to its original place. The House also resolved that all workers of the local government be made to comply with the directive without delay.

Court dismisses appeal From Polycarp Orosevwotu, Warri

HE Appeal Court sitting in Benin, the Edo State capital, yesterday dismissed a motion for stay of execution filed by the candidate of the Democratic Peoples Party (DPP) in the Ughelli South constituency, Delta State, Eme Mukoro. Justice R. Agbo said the court could no longer entertain the motion, since Mukoro’s appeal has been filed at the Supreme Court. Mukoro is challenging the victory of Olorogun Taleb Tebite of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Tebite‘s counsel Efe Akpofure(SAN) said the proceeds at the court went well.

Enugu denies detaining labour leader Uduaghan (left) with CAN President Bishop God-Do-Well Awvomakpa and Secretary to the State Government Ovuozorie Macauley...yesterday Okungbowa Aiwerie, Asaba

we actually had two of such in Sapele which, according to investigations, were more of an intra-religious issue.” The governor praised the

leaders for dousing inter-religious tension in the state and urged them to plead with their followers not to take the laws into their hands. “We should appeal to our congregation not to take

laws into their hands by reacting negatively to whatever happens in the North. “Let us appeal to them not to condescend to that level. We should encourage our followers to protect themselves against robbery, kidnapping ,” he stated.

Teenager arrested for alleged stealing 15-YEAR-OLD boy has been arrested by the police in Akwa Ibom State for allegedly stealing a church’s monthly tithe. The teenager, an indigene of Idua Eket, was paraded yesterday at the State Police Headquarters, Ikot Akpan-Abia in Uyo, the state capital. He was alleged to have broken into the room of the Superintending Pastor of Mount Zion Church in Eket where he stole N5,000 belonging to the church. The suspect claimed that a member of the church, Mitche Subday, instructed him to steal the money. His words: “ The police arrested me because I stole church tithe. “The name of the church is Mount Zion at Idua Eket. The person who attends the

Abia Assembly to relocate council

Man gets 22 months for stealing

From Osagie Otabor, Benin

20-YEAR-OLD man, Lucky Enoh-Peters, has been sentenced to 22 months imprisonment by a Benin Magistrate’s Court. Enoh-Peters was arraigned on a three-count charge of breaking and entry, stealing and unlawful possession. The prosecutor, Chuks Nnamdi, who tendered 15 exhibits and called three witnesses, told the court that the accused stole a UPS, stabiliser, flat screen monitor and generator belonging to Charles Amadi in December 2010. The accused pleaded not guilty. Counsel to the accused Mrs C .C Zakeri pleaded for leniency, saying sending the accused to prison will compound his problems, rather than moulding him for a better future. Magistrate Fred Akhere declared the accused guilty and sentenced him to 22 months or an option of N10,000 in each of the charges.

From Kazeem Ibrahym, Uyo

church asked me to go and bring the money. “I want God to forgive

me. I won’t steal again. “The name of my school is Government Secondary

School, QIC road, Eket and I am in J.S.S three.” Also paraded by the police were suspected cultists. According to the Commissioner of Police, Solomon Arase, the suspected cultists were arrested after assembling for cult initiation. Arase gave their names as Aniekan Effiong, Solomon Udo, Christian Jeremiah, Udosoro Emmanuel, Anthony Williams, Iheanetu John, Michael Ike and Edidiong Eshiet. The police chief explained that efforts had been intensified by the command to apprehend other members of the gang. But the suspects denied the allegations. They said the police implicated them.

From Chris Oji, Enugu

HE Enugu State Government has faulted insinuations by Amnesty International and some other human rights groups that it incarcerated labour activists Osmond Ugwu and Raphael Elobuike. It said such claims were unfounded. The government also dismissed as “totally baseless and mischievous” reports that it had set up special tribunals to try antisubsidy removal activists. In a statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Chukwudi Achife, the government was appalled at the way facts relating to the activists’ case had been misrepresented. Achife said the duo were remanded and prosecuted before a court of competent jurisdiction with respect to a case they have with the police in Enugu and not the government. He denied the existence of a special tribunal to try protesters, saying it was an invention by the media as the court that handled the case was a magistrate’s court. He said the government was committed to the rule of law and always sought to dialogue with labour.

THE NATION FRIDAY, JANUARY 20, 2012

BUSINESS THE NATION

E-mail:- bussiness@thenationonlineng.net

Nigeria to load 368,000 bpd of Qua oil

IGERIA will export around 368,000 bar rels per day of its light, sweet Qua Iboe oil grade in March, a trade source said on Thursday citing a provisional loading programme. The volume of the benchmark grade is expected to be around 11.4 million barrels on 12 cargoes, the source said. The daily volume was little changed from February when Nigeria planned to export around 360,000 bpd. Nigerian oil differentials slipped again on Wednesday, with traders citing lackluster demand for remaining February cargoes as March loading programmes began to emerge. “Qua Iboe is well below the $3 mark,” said a West African oil trader. Traders said around five cargoes of Nigerian oil for February loading were still available on the spot market. Qua Iboe BFO-QUA was assessed around dated plus $2.60-$2.80 a barrel, down about 10-20 cents from Tuesday. Nigeria is set to export around 156,000 barrels per day of Bonny Light compared with 164,000 bpd in February. The provisional list of cargoes showed that Shell will load two cargoes of Bonny Light in March despite declaring force majeure on this grade earlier this month due to a leak. A Shell spokeswoman said on Wednesday the force majeure was still in place. Also,Indian Oil Corp (IOC) has another crude buying tender open that closed on Tuesday.

DATA STREAM COMMODITY PRICES Oil -$107/barrel Cocoa -$2,686.35/metric ton Coffee - ¢132.70/pound Cotton - ¢95.17pound Gold -$1,800/troy ounce Rubber -¢159.21pound MARKET CAPITALISATIONS NSE JSE NYSE LSE

-N6.503 trillion -Z5.112trillion -$10.84 trillion -£61.67 trillion RATES Inflation -10.5% Treasury Bills -7.08% Maximum lending-22.42% Prime lending -15.87% Savings rate -2% 91-day NTB -15% Time Deposit -5.49% MPR -12% Foreign Reserve $33.01b FOREX CFA 0.2958 EUR 206.9 £ 242.1 $ 156 ¥ 1.9179 SDR 238 RIYAL 40.472

The oil and solid minerals audits would be carried out in all major revenue generating entities and all revenue remitting institutions in the oil and gas and solid mineral sectors of the country from 2009 to 2011. -Labaran Maku Minister of Information

Senate approves 2012-2015 fiscal framework

HE Senate yesterday approved the 20122015 Medium Term Fiscal Framework submitted to the National Assembly by the Presidency. This followed the consideration and subsequent adoption of the report of the Joint Committee on Finance, Appropriation and National Planning, Economic Affairs and Poverty Alleviation on MTFF. It specifically insisted that with “the partial deregulation of the downstream sector of the petroleum industry, all savings and accruals must be captured in safety net for targeted expenditures and approved by the National Assembly.” The senate pegged the benchmark price of crude oil

• Raises oil benchmark to $75 From: Onyedi Ojiabor, Assistant Editor and Sanni Onogu, Abuja

for the 2012 Appropriation Bill at $75 per barrel $5 more than the $70 initially proposed. It said government should ensure a holistic alignment of the 2012 to 2015 MTFF and the Fiscal Strategy Paper with the requirements of the Fiscal Responsibility Act, 2007. The lawmakers pegged the daily crude oil production figures to 2.48 million, 2.55 million, 2.58 million and 2.60 million for 2012, 2013, 2014 and 2015 respectively. It said: “The 2012 to 2015 non-oil revenue growth rate

estimates of 5 per cent, 16 and 17 per cent should be adopted, while the Federal Government should at the same time articulate its plan for plugging revenue leakages, improve the efficiency of revenue collections, encourage the flow of goods and services through the country’s ports and stop granting duty waivers.” The lawmakers also pegged the exchange rate at N155 to one dollar, and asked Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) to submit their expenditure pattern with clearly defined performance action plan, concrete milestone and measurable

performance indicators to the National Assembly. It urged the government to restrict the Public Private Partnership (PPP) to specialised areas, saying the state should not abandon its social responsibility in the process. It wants the Federal Ministry of Finance to provide comprehensive information on the 2012 Appropriation proposal with regards to the volume of capital projects to be funded through PPP. The senate asked the Federal Government to freeze additional allocation to its overhead expenditure throughout the period of the MTFF. It said the civil service should be restructured to enhance productivity,

while the fiscal deficit ratios of 2.7 per cent, 2 per cent, 1.5 per cent and 1.5 per cent for 2012, 2013, 2014 and 2015 respectively, be adopted. Chairman, Senate Committee on Finance, Senator Bassey Otu, who presented the report, said the adopted recommendations stemmed from an exhaustive deliberation on the MTFF and FSP with due consideration to the provision of the 1999 Constitution (As amended) and the Fiscal Responsibility Act, 2007. The 2012 to 2015 MTFF and FSP are statutory requirements for submission to the National Assembly under the Fiscal Responsibility Act, 2007.

• From left, Account Manager, Samsung Electronics, West Africa, Mr. Fauno Nadah; Osun State Deputy Governor, Mrs Titi Laoye-Tomori; Managing Director, Nigeria, Samsung Electronics, West Africa Limited, Mr.Idorenyen Enang; Governor Rauf Aregbesola and Chief of Staff, Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola, during a visit of the Samsung Electronics to the Governor in Osogbo...yesterday

Alison-Madueke attributes petrol scarcity to strike

HE Minister of Petro leum Resources, Mrs. Diezani Alison – Madueke, has attributed the resurgence of queues at petrol stations nationwide to the strike staged by labour and organised civil groups over the removal of fuel subsidy by the Federal Government. She explained that as is typical of every strong industrial action and its aftermath, it would take a while for the fuel suppliers to come back on stream. Mrs Alison-Madueke however, disclosed that the government has already swung into action and taken steps to ensure normalcy returns to the petrol market sector. Her words: “In terms of the queues that are back on the streets, everybody is aware that we have come out of a rather hard, strong strike. And obviously when that happens, it takes a while again for the actual PMS sup-

• Says: ‘I won’t resign’ From John Ofikhenua, Abuja

pliers to come back on stream, so to speak. So it will take a little while, but we are working very robustly to ensure that once again the situation is back to what it was before the strike when fuel was adequately supplied to all parts of Nigeria.” Speaking while inaugurating the Special Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB) Taskforce and Technical Committee, in Abuja, she said the team would ensure a redefinition, critical and expedient passage of the bill through the National Assembly. While reacting to calls for her resignation as the Economic and Financial Crime Commission (EFCC) probes the expenditure of the fuel subsidy, she said as a public office holder in a democratic country, she should be opened to criticisms without which public office holders

cannot actually grow. She added that it would be erroneous to battle her critics instead of using their ideas to improve her office. Mrs Alison-Madueke explained that problems associated with fuel subsidy have been prevalent for several years before she assumed the supervision of the Petroleum Products Pricing Regulatory Agency (PPPRA) only eight months ago. “The problems in the sector in terms of subsidy have been there for many years. It didn’t start in the last eight months. But we are certain that with the processes we have put in place, we will get the desired result and have the place under control in the shortest possible time. “The PPPRA came under the Ministry of Petroleum Resources less than a year ago. Prior to that, it was reporting to the Presidency. But I was the chairman of

the board as it came under the Ministry of Petroleum Resources, we obviously looked at it, put new management in place and for about eight months, we looked at the performance of the indicators and all the allocations and we became rather concerned about what we were hearing and what we were seeing on ground from the performance indicators,” she said. Asked whether the taskforce she inaugurated to be chaired by Senator Udoma Udo Udo, was not simply a job for the boys? “who exactly are you referring to as the boys? she retorted. “You have seen the calibre of the committee that we have put together-highly respected former members of the Senate and House, who are now private people doing very well in their various works of life. You have seen the calibre of the professionals on the technical committee.

Nigeria to raise N130b-240b from bonds in Q1

IGERIA plans to raise between N129.75N239.75 billion, about ($1.49 billion) in 10year sovereign bonds in the first quarter of the year, the Debt Management Office (DMO), said yesterday. This is seen as a major step to plug the revenue gap in 2012. The debt office said it would auction between N79.75- N99.75 billion in 10year bonds of various maturity dates in January, N60N80 billion in February and N50- N60 billion in March of the same tenor respectively. Nigeria, Africa’s second biggest economy after South Africa, said all the papers were re-openings of those previously issued, except for the issue of N30- N40 billion fresh paper in January. DMO discontinued the issuance of lower tenor papers of 3 and 5-year in the third quarter of last year and concentrated on the 10-year instrument as part of its debt restructuring measures.

THE NATION FRIDAY, JANUARY 20, 2012

BUSINESS NEWS Flight Schedule

NCC inaugurates group on multiple taxation

MONDAY - FRIDAY LAGOS – ABUJA Departure Arrival 1. Aero 06.50 08.10 2. Associated 07.00 09.30 3. Air Nigeria 07.00 08.20 4. IRS 07.00 08.20 5. Dana 07.02 08.22 6. Arik 07.15 08.15 7. Chanchangi 07.15 8. Air Nigeria 08.15 09.35 9. Dana 08.10 09.20 10. Aero 08.45 10.05 11. Arik 09.15 10.15 12. Chanchangi 10.00 11.00 13. IRS 11.15 12.35 14. Dana 12.06 12.26 15. Aero 12.20 13.30 16. Air Nigeria 13.25 14.45 17. Chanchangi 13.30 14.30 18. Arik 13.45 14.45 19. IRS 14.00 15.20 20. Aero 14.10 15.30 21. Air Nigeria 14.50 16.10 22. Dana 15.30 16.50 23. Chanchangi 15.30 16.30 24. Arik 15.50 16.50 25. Aero 16.00 17.20 26. IRS 16.30 17.50 27. Arik 16.50 17.50 28. Dana 17.10 18.30 29. Chanchangi 17.30 18.30 30. Air Nigeria 17.35 18.55 31. Air Nigeria (T/TH) 18.30 19.50 32. Arik 18.45 19.45 33. Aero 19.20 20.40 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 1. 2. 3. 4.

LAGOS – BENIN Arik 07.30 Associated 08.30 Aero 10.50 Arik 11.45 Associated 13.00 Aero 14.25 Arik 15.30 Associated 16.00 Arik Aero Arik Aero

1. Arik 2. Aero 1. 2. 3. 4.

LAGOS – CALABAR 07.30 11.20 12.50 16.00 LAGOS – JOS 10.55 11.15

LAGOS – KADUNA Aero 08.00 Chanchangi 10.00 Arik 10.00 Arik 15.10

08.30 09.10 11.50 12.45 13.40 15.20 16.30 16.40 08.50 12.40 14.10 17.20 12.15 12.45 09.10 11.00 11.10 16.20

LAGOS – PORT HARCOURT (CIVIL) 1. Aero 07.15 08.35 2. Arik 07.15 08.35 3. Arik 09.00 10.20 4. Dana 09.27 10.40 5. Aero 10.50 12.30 6. Arik 11.40 13.00 7. Air Nigeria 12.00 13.10 8. IRS 13.30 15.00 9. Arik 14.00 15.20 10. Dana 15.03 16.20 11. Air Nigeria 16.00 17.10 12. Arik 16.10 17.30 13. Aero 16.15 17.30 14. Arik 17.10 18.30 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

LAGOS – OWERRI Aero 07.30 Arik 07.30 Air Nigeria 13.40 Arik 14.00 Arik 16.30

08.40 08.40 14.55 15.10 17.40

1. 2. 3. 4.

Arik Aero Arik Aero

LAGOS – WARRI 08.15 11.50 11.55 14.55

09.1 12.50 12.55 15.55

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.

LAGOS – KANO Air Nigeria 07.10 IRS 08.00 Dana 08.10 Arik 12.20 IRS 14.00 IRS 18.15

08.50 09.45 09.40 14.00 15.45 19.55

LAGOS – OWERRI 07.20 14.00 16.30

08.30 15.10 17.40

LAGOS – UYO 10.35

11.35

1. Arik 2. Arik 3. Arik 1. Dana

LAGOS – MAIDUGURI 1. IRS 11.15 13.15 2. Arik 15.50 18.00 LAGOS – ILORIN 1. Overland 07.15

08.00

LAGOS – ABUJA SAT/SUN Arik 7.15; 10.20; 2.20; 5.20pm – 7.30; 9.15; 10.20; 2.20; 4.50; 6.45 Aero 07.30; 09.35; 13.10; 14.50; 20.20 – 07.30; 09.35; 13.10; 14.50; 20.20 Air Nigeria 08.15; 14.30; 17.15; 18.30 – 08.15; 13.30; 14.30; 17.15; 18.30

By Adline Atili

• From left: Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Trade and Investment, Mr Dauda Kigbu, Minister of Trade and Investment, Mr Olusegun Aganga and Gombe State Governor, Alhaji Ibrahim Dankwambo, during Dankwambo's visit to the Federal Ministry of Trade and Investment, in Abuja.

Kodak files for bankruptcy

ASTMAN Kodak Company (EK), the photography pio neer that introduced the Brownie Camera more than a century ago, filed for bankruptcy after consumers embraced digital cameras, a technology Kodak invented and failed to commercialize. The Rochester, New York-based company, which traces its roots to 1880, listed assets of $5.1 billion and debt of $6.8 billion in Chapter 11 documents filed in U.S. Bankruptcy Court in Manhattan. “They were a company stuck in time,” said Robert Burley, an associate professor at Toronto’s Ryerson University who has photographed shuttered Kodak facilities in the U.S., Canada and France since 2005. “Their history was so important to them, this rich century-old history when they made a lot of amazing things and a lot of money along the way. Now their history has become a liability.”

• Owes $6.8b By Simeon Ebulu with agency report

The company’s credit according to Bloomberg News, deteriorated as revenue tumbled from traditional film, and the inventor of the Instamatic cameras was slow during the past decade to compete with Canon Inc. (7751) and Hewlett-Packard Co. (HPQ) in digital cameras and printers. Moody’s Investors Service on January 5, cut ratings on about $1 billion of Kodak debt with a negative outlook, citing “a heightened probability of a bankruptcy over the near-term.” NYSE Regulation Inc. today said it would suspend trading of Kodak stock after determining the company is “no longer suitable for listing,” according to a statement. Citigroup Incorporated, agreed

to provide a $950 million debtorin- possession loan to help Kodak operate during bankruptcy, the photo company said yesterday in a statement. The loan must be approved by a bankruptcy judge. “Kodak is taking a significant step toward enabling our enterprise to complete its transformation,” Antonio M. Perez, Chief Executive Officer, said in the statement. The company plans to sell “significant assets” during the bankruptcy, Chief Financial Officer Antoinette McCorvey said in a court filing. She didn’t elaborate. “The announcement that Kodak is filing for bankruptcy is difficult and disappointing news for the city and people of Rochester,” New York Governor Andrew Cuomo said in a statement. “This is a time for all of us at all levels of government to come together and work with the private sector to support Rochester’s growth,” Cuomo said.

How to reduce oil spills, by envoy

O reduce the incidences of oil spillage in Nigeria, the Neth erlands Ambassador to Nigeria, Bert Ronhaar has charged Nigeria to upgrade its environmental policies to world best practices. He made this call yesterday when he paid a courtesy call on the Director General of the National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency (NOSDRA), Peter Idabor in Abuja. The envoy noted that presently there is no clear distinction between the roles of the regulator and inspectorate in the sector. He said: “It is the primary responsibility of the Nigerian government to set its policies to world best practices. You need a good regulator setting the standard and an inspectorate to check.

• Chevron suspends search for missing contractors From Augustine Ehikioya, Abuja

“The roles of the independent regulator and inspectorate are a bit blurred. The distinction between the two is not very clear. Nigeria can benefit from the experiences of Canada, USA among others were all the responsibilities are well spelt out. The UNEP report presented to the government provides good way forward on many issues in Nigeria.” On the reason for his visit, he said: “We share a lot of experience in keeping the environment clean. One of the major task from that perspective is that my government have asked me to be in

contact with NOSDRA and to see where both country could increase their cooperation in this field. You face many challenges in the last few weeks. The Bonga oil spill, the UNEP report on the Ogoni land, Chevron oil disaster that you are still trying to contain.” Meanwhile, Chevron Corporation has said that its subsidiary, Chevron Nigeria Limited (CNL), has called off the search and rescue activities for two contractors who were missing after Monday’s fire aboard the K.S. Endeavor, a drilling rig offshore Nigeria operated by FODE Drilling Nigeria Limited.

Subsidy: Finance ministry re-introduces oil & gas INISTER of Finance and monitoring unit the country needs every kobo we can find. I will not invent any anCoordinating Minister of

the Economy, Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala has said she would re-introduce the oil and gas monitoring unit in the Federal Ministry of Finance to provide oversight over the oil sector and ensure strict compliance with extant laws and regulation. Fielding questions at her second appearance before the House of Representatives Ad-Hoc Committee on Fuel Subsidy Management yesterday, Dr Okonjo –Iweala said the previous oil and gas monitoring unit she had set up during her previous stint as Finance Minister

By Taofik Salako

helped the country to recover N180 billion. She said some international oil companies were made to pay the country $1.2 billion following a study of their contractual obligations. The minster reiterated her commitments to help government in fighting corruption and improving efficiency by plugging wastages and ensuring more transparency and accountability in the management of public resources. “We must get at the truth because

swers to shield anybody,” OkojoIweala said. She noted that subsidy was not an ideological issue but the challenge was to ensure that subsidies are properly targeted to get to the people who need it most. According to her, the bulk of the subsidy wasn’t going to the target population and this is money that could be used to create additional jobs such as the 370,000 new job scheme government is planning, more investment in agriculture and rural development, which will benefit more people.

HE Nigerian Communica tions Commission (NCC), has inaugurated an Industry Working Group (IWG) on multiple taxation in the Nigerian telecommunications sector. Multiple taxation from various regulatory agencies in the country have been a sore point for operators in the telecom sector, with losses arising from non-compliance running into millions of naira. According to them, the industry has in the last few months, been witnessing cases of forceful closure of Base Transceiver Sites (BTS) in various parts of the country by agents of states and local governments for reasons bordering on nonpayment of what they described as “spurious levies and taxes, which in most cases, cannot find any firm basis in the laws of the land.” Executive Commissioner , NCC, Okechukwu Itanyi, said at the inauguration ceremony yesterday in Lagos, that the high incidence of closure of BTS sites in the country, when added to the current socio-economic realities in the country, portend grave dangers to the telecom sector. “This problem, if not quickly addressed, could even erode all the gains of the past 10 years in the industry,”he said. He decried the rate at which various state governments are latchingon to the modest gains of the telecom sector to shore up their internally-generated revenues, saying with the inauguration of the IWG, which cuts across various stakeholder groups in the industry, urgent steps will be taken to stem the menace. “The mandate of this group would be to carefully articulate the industry’s position on the dangers of multiple taxation and engage relevant levels of governments with the aim of stopping imposition of illegal taxies and levies on telecom operators in the country,” the Commissioner, said. As part of the terms of reference for implementation of strategies, Itanyi informed that the Industry Working Group will liaise with the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) and the Joint Tax Board (JTB) to ensure a fair and equitable taxes and levies regime for operators within the industry, as well as review the Taxes and Levies (Approved List for Collection) Act of 2008, which he said, has become moribund.

‘Future of Tinapa not bleak’ From Nicholas Kalu, Calabar

ANAGING Director of Tinapa Business and Lei sure Resort, Bassey Eyo Ndem, has assured on the viability of the enterprise. In a statement by the Head of Media/Public Affairs, Paul Eko, made available to The Nation in Calabar, yesterday, Ndem, pointed out that Tinapa is a long term investment which has the potential to change the fortunes of the state and the country. The Cross River House of Assembly had summoned the chief executive over the state of the resort. He explained that the concern of the legislators was borne out of concerns expressed by the public who wanted assurance that the project would pay its way. “As at today, there is indeed, a notable increase in patronage. Over 700 containers moved through Tinapa last year. The Federal Government has received revenue that has accrued. Indeed, there is increase in occupancy of Tinapa lakeside Hotel, while the water park and the games arcade have continued to attract large patronage from leisure seekers all over the country,” Ndem said, in the statement.

THE NATION FRIDAY, JANUARY 20, 2012

EDITORIAL/OPINION Comments

EDITORIAL FROM OTHER LAND

Syria’s carnage puts Arab leaders on horns of dilemma

How come? • Police I-G has a case to answer on Boko Haram suspect’s escape

HE Nigeria Police Force under Hafiz Ringim, as the InspectorGeneral has raised the bar on complicity. Sounding more like a fiction, a suspected Boko Haram member arrested by the police in connection with the Christmas day bombing of St. Theresa’s Catholic Church, Mandalla, Niger State, one Kabiru Sokoto, has been allowed to escape by the police in clearly questionable circumstances. After all the ecstasy of a major breakthrough in the despicable murder of Nigerians on a hallowed day, all that Nigerians now have is an empty cell, as the suspect has been let on the run. According to the police, Mr. Sokoto was handed over to Zakari Biu, a notorious Commissioner of Police, whose men took the suspect to conduct a search in the suspect’s home; and thereafter they visited a local chief, following which they were attacked by an armed gang, and the suspect freed. The investigator, Mr. Biu, was reported to have earlier been dismissed from the police, and had been linked to a series of crimes against humanity, as one of the foremost torturers during the Abacha regime. He is also linked with the coldblooded murder of the ‘Apo Six’, and several other allegations of criminal conduct. It is a shame that despite the national and international outcry over the serial incompetence shown by the police, particularly with respect to the

Boko Haram menace, the InspectorGeneral of Police and his men have further added this incongruity to our failures as a nation. Even in the face of the so-called search for the escaped villain, his picture has not been released to the public. Is it possible that the police did not take his picture in detention, or are they waiting for his escape beyond Nigeria before the particulars are released to aid his re- arrest? We doubt if Mr. Rigim realises that his men have completely ridiculed our national security system. Obviously, many Nigerians would, by this criminal negligence by the police come to the conclusion that they are part and parcel of the President’s alleged conspirators with Boko Haram. We recall how another prime suspect; one Aliyu Tishu also escaped under the custody of the police in similar complicit circumstances last year; and up till now Mr. Ringim is yet to explain satisfactorily his rendezvous at the police headquarters with Mr. Tishu. It is understandable that agonising Nigerians have called for the sack and prosecution of the inspector-general and his officials over this show of shame. We share their position, and hope that the President will not again wring his hands in frustration, but take steps to reassure Nigerians that the menace from corruption and inefficiency in government is as much a concern to him as taking controver-

sial steps to raise more money for spending by his government. Even before this latest drama, we had on this page earlier called on President Goodluck Jonathan to overhaul the national security agencies for their gross incompetence in the face of threats from Boko Haram. Unfortunately, the President rather rewarded them with national awards as if the awards are rewards for failure. While President Jonathan must quickly bring the police officials to answer for their alleged misdeeds, he should also expose the sympathisers or members of the sect that he announced recently as having infiltrated his government; instead of appearing to be perpetually helpless.

‘Even before this latest drama, we had on this page earlier called on President Goodluck Jonathan to overhaul the national security agencies for their gross incompetence in the face of threats from Boko Haram. Unfortunately, the President rather rewarded them with national awards as if the awards are rewards for failure’

Muhammad Ali at 70

• We wish the world’s most famous boxer a happy birthday

UHAMMAD Ali was born Cassius Marcellus Clay Jr. The renowned pugilist is unarguably the most famous boxer/ athlete that the world has ever produced. That was probably why humanity stood still for him when he became a septuagenarian on January 17. Ali was born on in Louisville, Kentucky in 1942. Hence, his childhood nickname was the ‘Louisville Lip’. The world is still revelling in celebrating this noble man’s birthday for bringing joy with his God-given talent to millions of homes in his heyday in the art of pugilism. Ali was trained as a professional boxer by the legendary former world champion, Archie Moore. Moore was soon relieved of this job after proving to be too strict for the extrovert Clay. Angelo Dundee subsequently took

‘The Associated Press conducted a research study in 1993 that showed that Ali tied with Babe Ruth as the most recognised athlete in America. ...To this outstanding boxer of this civilisation and role model to millions of his admirers, male and female, across the globe, we say a happy 70th birthday while wishing him significant improvement in his health challenges’

over the job. Ali registered for United States Selective Service and was classified unfit for service in 1962 because he failed the mental aptitude test. As the country needed more soldiers for the Vietnam War, a new classification was issued and Ali found himself classified 1-A (fit for service). He vehemently turned down the offer and the American system persecuted him for this, as he was sidelined from boxing for three years (1967 to 1970) for refusing military service. However, his license was never revoked. He won a gold medal as a light heavyweight at the 1960 Olympic Games in Rome. Ali is suffering from Parkinson’s disease, ostensibly caused by the barrages of punches received during the course of his boxing career. Whatever his present health conditions, he had built in his active years, a larger-than-life image as a boxer and worthy role model of global stature. Ali’s idiosyncrasies in the ring were incomparable. His ring tenacity and passion for boxing were legendary as he made the extraordinary a regular recurrence in virtually all his boxing bouts. His retirement from boxing in 1981 marked the golden era of boxing. Ever since, the sport has not been the same. We acknowledge that there were other great boxers such as George Foreman, Mike Tyson and now Vladimir Klitschko, but none indeed would ever match Ali in terms of raw

power, talent, ring oratory, footwork and mastery of the ropes. Ali was a model to many, even outside the ring. For him, boxing was a lee way to get out of his depraved environment. The man, Ali, has outlived many of his contemporaries. His works, especially in humanitarian services are not yet finished. Ali still inspires courage and willpower in those around him. In his heyday he was a very blunt man. We recollect that in September, 1976, after winning a unanimous decision against Ken Norton, he admitted to sportswriters that he should have lost the bout. One of his greatest fights was the one he had against George Foreman in Zaire in 1976 that was dubbed ‘rumble in the jungle’. Ali was the first man on earth to knock down Sonny Liston, George Foreman, and Chuck Wepner, all pugilists of inestimable standing. He has been married four times and has seven daughters and two sons. The Associated Press conducted a research study in 1993 that showed that Ali tied with Babe Ruth as the most recognised athlete in America. The study showed that more than 97 per cent of Americans over 12 years of age knew and could recognise Ali. To this outstanding boxer of this civilisation and role model to millions of his admirers, male and female, across the globe, we say a happy 70 th birthday while wishing him significant improvement in his health challenges.

ERE’S ONE MEASURE of how much the Middle East has changed in the past year: Amr Moussa, the former Egyptian foreign minister and Arab League secretary general, is calling for Arab states to consider an armed intervention in Syria. For Mr. Moussa, who hopes to be elected president of Egypt this year, this is an astonishing transformation. For decades he exemplified the region’s ossified and impotent politics; he frequently inveighed against Israel but took little notice of massive human rights violations — even acts of genocide — by Arab autocracies. Now, seconding the suggestion of the emir of Qatar, he has endorsed intervention by Arab troops to stop the war being waged by Syrian dictator Bashar al-Assad against his own people. The talk of intervention, which may be taken up formally by the Arab League at a meeting this weekend, reflects a sense of desperation. For months the Arab governments have been trying to pressure Mr. Assad into ending attacks on civilians, withdrawing troops from cities, releasing prisoners and opening negotiations with the opposition. Last month, they dispatched some 150 observers to the country to monitor implementation of the plan. But Mr. Assad, predictably, never took any meaningful steps; instead he has gone on killing people at a shocking pace. According to the United Nations, more than 400 have died in the past three weeks, in addition to more than 5,000 killed since last March. The Arab observer force has been a failure, and one of its own members has called it a farce. So the Arab League, which like Mr. Moussa has tried to regain credibility in this new Middle Eastern era, must choose between humiliation and stronger action. For now, it appears unlikely that the military option will gain traction. It will be opposed by countries sympathetic to the regime, such as Iraq and Lebanon — and it’s not clear that Qatar and its allies could muster the strength to check Mr. Assad’s army. Even a more limited operation, such as the creation of a protected zone or humanitarian corridor, would probably need the participation of Turkey, if not NATO. One way or another, the Arab League’s predicament will be shared by NATO members, including the United States. The Western allies have stood back from the carnage in Syria, even while calling for the end of the Assad regime. For the past several months, the Arab League’s initiatives have been a cover for inaction. If the organization now reaches a dead end, outside powers will have to consider new measures, in collaboration with the Arabs. Standing by while the bloodshed goes on should not be one of the options. – Washington Post

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THE NATION FRIDAY, JANUARY 20, 2012

EDITORIAL/OPINION

IR: Nigeria with its vast human and material resources has the potentials to become the giant of Africa. But, can Nigeria become the giant of Africa, and join the league of the best 20 global economies in 2020? Corrupt political leadership and the issue of disunity are touted as the factors militating against our national growth. Some people feel that the amalgamation of disparate political entities that make up Nigeria in 1914 by Lord Lugard is at the root of our ethnicity problem and the attendant disunity. Ethno-religious confilct has characterized Nigeria, and the country has experienced political upheavals that threatened its corporate existence. In addition to our lack of national cohesion, Nigeria has not got its politics correct. Before 1999, military regimes had truncated our

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President Jonathan, kill corruption, terrorism before they kill us democratic governance. Instead of giving us good leadership as they promised, they trampled on our fundamental human rights, and raped our economy. Did IBB’s SAP bring succour to the poor Nigerians, then? Rather, the Rtd General Ibrahim Babangida entrenched corruption in Nigeria. Sani Abacha after him combined kleptomania with sanguinary proclivities, and visited terror on us as well as mindlessly pillaging our economy. Sadly, our political leaders did not fare better than the Jackbots and

Brass-hats. They’re catapaulted into the top most political position in the country by king makers, ethnic interests and the exigencies of the time. Sir Tafawa Balewa was installed by the departing British overlords. How Alhaji Shehu Shagari trounced such political titans and intellectuals as Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe and Chief Awolowo is baffling. In order to appease the Yoruba over the annulled June 12, 1993 presidential election, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, a man amenable to the North, was assisted to become our

president by Northern interests and power- brokers and others. Now, Dr Goodluck Jonathan is our president. Can the once shoeless school boy, whose father was a canoe-carver, make the change in our polity that will improve our standard of living? His life-story of deprivation resonated with us, and we gave him the mandate to preside over our affairs. But, does he have the capacity to navigate the ship of state through the turbulent political waters to economic prosperity and technologi-

The concerns of a Catholic bishop

IR: Bishop Emmanuel Adetoyese Badejo, of the Catholic Diocese of Oyo, writes occasionally in Nigerian newspapers, as he should. Yes, because he has a post-graduate degree in mass communications from a reputable University in Italy. And whenever I am lucky to come across whatever he writes, reading it is irresistible, because I know his intelligence quotient is very high. Hence I felt humbled when he sent me a text, in the morning of Monday, January 16, saying: “Sir, as we pray today for divine help against all our troubles, please remind our people that not all Muslims are bad or anti-Christian. And even now, we must remain like Christ, open and positive, though vigilant. We must work together with good Muslims, because Christians alone can’t save Nigeria. Bishop Badejo, Oyo”. Coincidentally, that very morning, Radio Nigeria relayed the news of a Muslim group that paid solidarity visit to five churches in Kano, to say “We are one in God almighty, and Islam abhors unjustifiable homicide.” The Bishop’s text message is apposite if only because I have been seriously concerned the way the

President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Pastor Ayo Oritsejafor, has been going about his leadership of the association. He has been coming too close to saying that Christians should be killing Muslims in retaliation for the murderous activities of the Boko Haram, without any thought about the political wahala created by President Goodluck Jonathan, or the outcry of the Muslim community denouncing the hostilities.

Ruling Nigeria is fragile. Look at the way the Niger Delta militants arose from the milieu of the Christian-dominated Niger Delta, and the Boko Haram emerged among the Muslim-dominated north; you also have the Odua’s People’s Congress among the highly mixed religious population of the South-west. How then can Nigeria survive without a political order within the democratic setting? Only for selfish reasons, the PDP presidency and legislature have been resisting constitutionalization

of rotational presidency and policy on a truly independent national electoral commission. None of that is ever reflected upon by Pastor Oritsejafor. He seems to have swallowed hook, line, and sinker, the bait of confusion put in his mouth by President Jonathan and certain misguided ethnic chauvinists. Hence he is plagued by a shallow view of the Boko Haram crisis. • Pius Oyeniran Abioje, Ph. D, University of Ilorin.

cal advancement? A country that is in the cauldron of sectarian violence has put development into abeyance, and has started its journey to Rwanda. The Boko Haram acts of terrorism may be a backlash from those who felt short-changed by our president’s refusal to abide by the PDP powersharing formular. It behooves him to urgently and bravely tackle this security challenge; otherwise, the country will collapse in his hands. Past successive governments ruined our country through corrupt practices and economic sabotage. Consequently, our leaders have earned the distrust and contempt of the masses. So, no matter how good government policies are, the people will still view them with cynicism and disdain. The strike action and street protests witnessed across Nigeria following the removal of the fuel subisdy on January 1, is a good example, Now, in Nigeria, democracy means government of the leaders by the leaders and for the enrichment of the rich folks who strut the corridors of power at the three tiers of government. It is corruption in government that has caused our schools to become dysfunctional with its concomitant effect, which is the churning out of semi-literate university graduates by our universities. The progress of Nigeria, and our continued existence as one country are predicated on eradicating corruption and terrorism from our country. • Chiedu Uche Okoye Uruowulu-Obosi, Anambra State

Listing of multinationals in Capital Market overdue

IR: There is no doubt that the burning flame of patrotism in the Central Bank Governor, Mallam Sanusi Lamido Sanusi for the rapid economic growth of the economy has again been demonstrated by his call for the compulsory listing of multinational companies in Nigeria on the Nigerian Stock Exchange. Indeed, the time is ripe for the Federal Government to heed the advice for the listing of all multinational companies doing business now or in the future in our country as this is the only way

to set in motion the necessary machinery required to uncover and to check excessess, and untoward business practices usually employed in the art of doing business in our country. Going down the memory lane, President Umaru Yar’Adua, of blessed memory (may his gentle soul continue to rest in perfect peace), represented by the then Minister of State for Finance, Remi Babalola, at the 38th annual conference of Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) in Abuja, in October 2008 emphasised

“the need to beam searchlight on the private sector in the ongoing fight against corruption in the country”. He also said that “the private sector played a key role in the supply and demand side of corruption” and that “the private sector could not be absolved from receiving and giving gratification”, with a reminder that “most instruments to measure corruption focus on the private sector’s perception of corruption in the public sector”. There is no doubt that corruption is inextricably linked with the

private sector in our country as opined by the late President, and it is for this reason that EFCC and ICPC needs to be strengthend. Nigerians are no doubt looking forward to the Goodluck Jonathan administration, through the Minister of Trade and Investment, to embark on policy shift in foreign investment by paying more attention to countries with zero tolerance for corruption, such as Sweden, Norway and Finland. • Odunayo Joseph Mopa, Kogi State

THE NATION FRIDAY, JANUARY 20, 2012 16

EDITORIAL/OPINION

Reality Bites T

Olatunji Ololade

HIRD time’s a treat; hence let me not sully this page with the name of the one whose shamelessness has become incense for parodists and poets. Yet much as he is one to be forgotten, I remember fiery letters of the oncegifted wielder of the pen. Back when he used to occupy the poor and helpless masses side of the divide, he persistently wrote to excite our weary hearts; that we may rise to wrest our destinies from our vile and clueless ruling class. Back when his pain was of fuel subsidy, he wrote that: “the socalled complete deregulation of the downstream sector and the removal of subsidy may seem like a purely economic policy decision, but it is so tied to larger Nigerian questions that it ought to be more rigorously debated, and government should make haste slowly…There is no indication that a complete deregulation regime will be better managed. The problem is not one of form, but leadership.” He did not stop at that; having decried the then incumbent government’s decision to remove fuel subsidy and totally deregulate the petroleum sector, he went on to establish the federal government’s shallowness and shortsightedness by stressing that: “The arguments being advanced to justify the proposed full deregulation do not make sense. All the arguments have a ring of déjà vu. They are taken from the same textbooks that the economists have refused to update, the same ideas that led to the collapse of the global economy. Other countries are making a U-turn and

subjecting textbook knowledge to the test of reality, Nigerian policy makers are still holding on to old paradigms. One of these days, we shall start stoning the economists in official corridors.” “Don’t they know this? If PMS now goes up to N73 per litre, with the Naira exchanging as at yesterday at N173 to the dollar, with the stock market now a penny shop, with no regular power supply and no jobs, starvation wages are still being paid, companies are cutting jobs, and public officials are living large and bank directors are junketing about like a yo-yo in expensive jets, and the refineries are down, and there is very low capacity utilisation in the real sector, the only losers will be ordinary people. What should come first: full deregulation or house cleaning? I think the latter,” he said. And if the lifestyle of government officials and the politicians is any measure of reality, government remains the most profitable business in the country today he noted, stressing that; “if the Federal Government is looking for more funds, why doesn’t it look elsewhere and try to cut its own costs and reduce the extravagance of government?...Why don’t they cut the fat allowances and estacodes then? And strengthen the mechanism for checking corruption in official corridors?” Today, he speaks different. Reacting recently to the House of Representatives’ emergency session and resolution that President Goodluck Jonathan jettisoned his plan to remove fuel subsidy, he said: “that

ABOUR, government and other stakeholders admitted that we have all leant our lessons from what happened in the last one week following the nationwide protest and strike actions declared by Labour in collaboration with the civil society groups. It was all about the deregulation of the downstream sector of the petroleum industry in Nigeria by the federal government, a decision that sent prices to the rooftops. Counting the risks to our national cohesion, and not the cost in time, the oneweek of protest is one of the longest in the history of protests and strikes in Nigeria. Nigerians from all walks of life invested precious time, money, sweat, ideas and resources. Many gave a sigh of relief on Monday morning, January 16, when Labour suspended the street protests. And in the afternoon when it called off the strikes, Nigerians felt more relieved. Labour said it took the decision after reviewing the entire situation and after extensive consultations with the stakeholders. It is the middle of the road position the generality of Nigerians had called for. The strike and protest led to the rebirth of healthy non-violent protest, with very reasonable opinions on governance issues canvassed by Nigerians. New professional public affairs analysts featured on different panels of discussions, arguing out very brilliantly issues associated with fuel subsidy, governance, cost of governance, corruption in the oil industry and development. One commentator right posited that “Nigeria can never be the same again after this protest and debate”. Reactions to calling off of the strikes by Labour indicated that some protesters genuinely felt highly disappointed that Labour could not get government to revert back to the pump price of N65.00 per liter for petrol. They felt Labour had sold out, and had consequently lost all the moral and legitimate rights to lead Nigerians into protests in future. This category of protesters could be seen as the hardliners within the Labour/civil society coalition. The second category of protesters within the coalition who had lost greatly is made up of

The casualty (1) extraordinary session coming on the eve of an alleged attempt by some people to disrupt law and order could be interpreted in some quarters as an attempt to incite the Nigerian people against the government”. Three years ago, when he claimed to be the people’s activist, he would have applauded the lawmakers’ decision. It could be recalled that on the vexatious attempt by the government of the period to remove fuel subsidy, he tasked the lawmakers thus: “The National Assembly should be persuaded to act in the interest of the people and say to the Federal Executive: “No, not now.” Funny how he has since evolved to chastise the lawmakers’ attempt to do what was once his heartfelt bidding. Funny how he has evolved to despise organized labour’s protest against the government’s action even though he was once of the opinion that, “The Nigerian Labour Congress has said that it will resist any increase in the pump prices of petroleum products, but it should do more than that. It should provide strong counter-arguments to expose the folly of the proposal and the wrongness of the timing.” Today, our presidential apologist agrees that the removal of fuel subsidy was perfectly timed; that was why he opened his mouth to utter words Nigerian lawmakers described as “childish and lacking in judgment.” That was why he presented arguments that the lawmakers dismissed as “uninformed, rash, imprudent and unwise by a presidential adviser of his ranking.” Few years ago, hardly anyone would have summoned the courage to qualify him with such words. But then, he stood on the moral side of the divide. He has since changed thus confirming Nigerians’ fears that a political appointment has the

capacity to corrupt the supposedly puritan heart and domesticate the activist like a yard-trained dog. We expected too much of him. All we saw in him was that fiery critic who gave vent to the voiceless’ woe. For all his outspokenness, nobody sought to understand the cadences of his wordless woe. Hence when opportunity beckoned, he chose to articulate his unarticulated simple lust. He chose to desert our over-exaggerated journalistic calling…wearing his conscience like a courtesan’s shabby corset on her weary thighs. Like a disillusioned revolutionary general, he has betrayed the fleet and failed our allied hopes; today, that heated passion he felt for the breadlines has taken its final gasp in the smothered embers of his heart. As you read, that fearless critic you loved to read bears the torch for those public enemies he said we could stone. Now we know what inadequacies he is ordered to cover. Now we know the type of guilt that unmans him. Now that he has stopped speaking truth to power, he has started speaking truth according to power. And there is really nothing anyone can do about it; he has evolved from that subtle shriek of tact Nigerian leadership is shorn of to become that careless screech of indiscretion Nigerian leadership is known for. He has sought for fortune at the crossroads where history shames the comforting essence of wealth. Thus his alteration into everlasting emptiness or something like it; like mutant fart. But you really can’t blame a man for seizing an opportunity when he sees it even if it unmans him and negates everything he purportedly stood for. Let he who is without vanities cast the first stone…for even I who write this have summoned the quirks of

Fuel subsidy: win some, lose some By Kehinde Laniyan

artisans, private businessmen and captains of industries. They felt it was tactless of Labour to have declared an indefinite strike action, in the first instance, because such could be difficult to halt. This category of people, knew they would not be compensated for all the enormous losses incurred within one week. And they must have prevailed on government and Labour to allow reason to prevail. Calling off the strike would allow them to cut losses and get Labour to continue the process of negotiation based on concessions made by the federal government. Self-interest, economic survival, and not ego, played a part in their coming to this conclusion. For instance, the total economic cost of the protest to the nation in just one week was put at N1trillon. Significantly, two days before the call off, the Director General of the Lagos Chambers of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), Muda Yusuf, speaking the minds of the organized private sector, advised Labour to save the economy and the society from degenerating into irredeemable chaos. Labour’s soft position is also a response to issue of state insecurity, inflamed by popular protests. It was fast pushing the country to the brink of disintegration. The profound dangerous trend was brought about by Boko Haram sect’s attacks since the conclusion of April 2011 elections and the attendant suspicion, distrust and cross country movement of Nigerians. One was not surprised that a serious minded citizen like Professor Wole Soyinka had to warn that the nation was heading towards civil war as a result of religious intolerance and inflammatory statements of some political leaders in the North. The respected professor made these statements at a BBC interview on the third day of the strike

action. This was at a time we were still busy debating economics of subsidy and price of petrol. It would have been irresponsible of Labour to allow its legitimate struggle to degenerate into disintegration of the country when there are clear signals in that direction. Some extraneous interests also took advantage of the strike to advance their selfinterest and settle political scores. There should be no qualms in any way about politicians joining protest and pushing their opinions, even if that was against the position of the ruling political party. However, the most unfortunate episodes in the drama had to do with disgruntled elements who rode on the protests to burn government assets, kill, maim and carry out other nefarious activities. This happened in places where order broke down completely and the capacity of the law enforcement agents was tasked to the maximum. Although, when compared to the gigantic nature of the protests, it has to be conceded that enlightened interest and civil conduct prevailed most of the time. Surprisingly again, the almighty blood sucking Boko Haram sect went on unannounced vacation at this crucial moment. We were happy to miss them. The instruction given by the government to the security forces helped in ensuring that relative peace was maintained while the strike lasted. Many times, government announced that it had no issue with protest by Nigerians. Government admonished security forces to display maturity in handling protesters. They were instructed to use minimum force to keep peace. Those who were not interested in strikes also had their rights protected. For example President Goodluck Jonathan, in his addresses to the nation before the strike and after, made it very

history and unforgiving time to play judge and jury to my self-righteousness and character. Am I wrought of that fabled honesty and unimpeachable character that yet eludes many of Nigeria’s self-styled critics and dubs them casualties of need? Whatever, demons I may yet have to deal with, may heaven not let me become the one who stressed that: “Other countries of the world provide subsidy for their citizens…No matter how attractive the removal of subsidy in the downstream sector may be, this is not the time to do it. And this is not how to go about it. Now again we pay the price for poor leadership. What is being planned is provocative. It is an invitation to chaos” only to eat up his words from the other side of the mouth.

‘He has sought for fortune at the crossroads where history shames the comforting essence of wealth. Thus his alteration into everlasting emptiness or something like it; like mutant fart. But you really can’t blame a man for seizing an opportunity when he sees it even if it unmans him and negates everything he purportedly stood for’ For SMS only 08038551123

clear that Nigerians have the right to protests, but within the confines of the law. President Goodluck Jonathan, to some observes, had demonstrated some sensitivity to calls of Nigerians by shifting grounds and coming down from the deregulated price of N141.00 per liter to a price close ‘to N65.00 or nothing’. “Sixty five naira or nothing” was the clamour of the massive crowd of Occupiers in Lagos, Kano, Abuja and Ibadan. The implication of shifting ground is that the full deregulation of the downstream petroleum sector, that necessitated upward movement of price, would be delayed or modified in full consultation with stakeholders in the country. The labour leaders have shown interest in the future negotiation process. The President also yielded to some demands of the protesters by promising a detailed study of the forensic audit of the account of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, (NNPC) with a view to curbing corruption in the oil and gas sector of the economy so as to rid it of corruption. This is one of the issues that featured in the presentations of speakers at Gani Fawehinmi Park Lagos, and Freedom Square, Kano. In addition, the President promised that his government would pursue the passage of the Petroleum Industry Bill with more vigour to ensure it becomes law that will regulate activities in the downstream sector. Labour, while reviewing the strikes and protests, congratulated itself for getting the government to address fundamental issues of governance. Therefore, the face that Labour lost in the minds of the hardliners within the coalition through its tactical acceptance of N97.00 pump price of petrol, as fixed by government, it saved by getting government to make concessions. Government made concessions on larger issues of governance such as corruption in the oil industry and cutting of cost of governance. These are very big gains to Labour, and ironically they were never anticipated when the protest started on January 9. • Laniyan, public affairs analyst, sent this from Abuja.

THE NATION FRIDAY, JANUARY 20, 2012

EDITORIAL/OPINION

HE fallouts of the last national strike cum nation wide protests would in the next months to come continue to generate mixed reactions from the polity. For the first time in the history of this country, the people actually showed those in power that the level of their consciousness has outgrown the intrepidity of the past. For five grim days, the nation was grounded. But for the capitulation of the labour movement, the government would by today have truly realised that sovereignty as enshrined in the constitution rightly belongs to the people through whom they derive their legitimacy. While the message had been passed to the authority not to take the people for granted when contemplating inimical policies, one has since discovered emergent spurious characters masquerading as champions of the poor in the society. One of the curious personalities thrown up by the last crisis that arose from people’s aversion for removal of subsidy on fuel is one man that goes by the name Atedo Peterside. He is an ijaw man, the same tribe as President Goodluck Jonathan- but from Rivers state. Mr Atedo from his Channels TV fuel subsidy interview advertorial published in a national newspaper has fairly admirable credentials. He is Chairman of the Boards of Stanbic IBTC bank and Cadbury Nigeria Plc. Perhaps, the one that gives his effrontery and partisanship out on national issues was his membership of National Economic Management Team set up by President Jonathan. But for Atedo’s incongruous comments against Lagos state on the sharing of fuel subsidy money that exposed him as grouting for an inept president, this article would have been unnecessary. It was too easy to impute the voice of Jacob and the hand of Esau into his malicious position against Lagos state and all successful men living therein which hypocritically includes himself, in the said interview. In the first place, his arguments were fraught with illogical postulations that belittle someone of his supposed standing in the society. Atedo’s bid at suddenly pretending to love the poor people and less privileged states like Jigawa, kebbi, Yobe, Bauchi and others further exposes him as a pro-establishment person, covertly seeking for more official patronage while at the same time fanning ember of ethnic acrimony and class warfare. He tried to convince himself about why the governors and

OW that the hurly-burly of the fuel subsidy removal is done, where do we go from here? Well, let’s attempt to encapsulate what has become one of our most historic outings as a nation in a fivepoint epilogue and chart a new course therefrom : The Rehoboam syndrome: the only analogy I could readily find to match what President Goodluck Jonathan did with the fuel subsidy issue is in the story of Rehoboam. He was heir to Solomon, the Biblical monarch who is recorded to be the wisest, wealthiest and indeed greatest king of all times. Upon assuming his father’s throne, he chose to heed bad counsel: my father ruled you with whips, I will unleash scorpions on you, he told his people. And they responded to him saying, in that case, you may go ahead and lord it over your family and your clan. Israel was thus rent in two and the consequences, utterly disastrous as the Bible records. Rehoboam inherited a glorious kingdom and did not have to do any thing extraordinary to keep the ship of state sailing. All he needed do was to simply listen to the voice of the people. In the same manner, President Jonathan who barely seven months ago earned a ‘pan-Nigerian mandate’ at the polls, needs not fret too much to get the country running well and to keep the people happy. A country that produces a minimum of two million barrels of the best crude oil daily; ordinarily should not have to try too hard to grow and develop. All it requires is to keep its house in order and people from all over the world would come in, invest and build the country. Apparently, President Jonathan does not see this, and secondly, he has been labeled a weak leader for too long and he was just intent on showing a bit of machismo. For a strange

‘We all know it, we see it all around us yet we shy away from dealing with it. It is corruption that has led us to budget three-quarters of our total income for consumption by ‘workers’’

Subsidy: Atedo’s illogical illuminations chairmen of councils must be wholly entrusted with the spending of money derived from removal of subsidy on fuel. Yet, he feigns ignorance of the lootings of the same governors and chairmen that further contributes to the impoverishment of their people. He also did not acknowledge the good governance going on in Lagos in his haste to discredit the Centre of Excellence. As if he runs a voucher printing company, he wants all states to print fuel voucher to be given to tax paying low income earners in the public service. He was silent about the fate of middle income earners and even those who pay tax to government in the informal sector of the economy? One should ask him on what justification should these people be denied the enjoyment of subsidy accruals? Atedo erroneously believes that doing this will prevent rich men like him from enjoying fuel subsidy. Does he have the mandate of rich men to seek their exclusion from the enjoyment of fuel subsidy? This man definitely has score to settle with successful men in the Centre of Excellence because of his petty but false assumption that a large chunk of subsidy money is ‘being consumed by some wealthy Lagosians-they have the lion’s share of the consumption. Also, it is the upper and middle class who consume the lion’s share of that petrol in Lagos. That money does not belong to them.’ Atedo speciously believes that the northern states are

poor because subsidy money have ‘historically been spent on some wealthy Lagosians and/or diverted to neighbouring countries.’ From the foregoing, it is very clear that this man is playing a divisive game in his bid to defend Jonathan, his tribe’s man, whose irrepressible urge to remove petrol subsidy in the country is legendary. Let it be made known to Atedo that smuggling of fuel should not be a good reason for inflicting pain on the masses of this country under the guise of removal of fuel subsidy. Fuel smuggling business is the job of powerful and well connected people. How would he defend himself when he confessed in a part of the interview that during a visit to Ghana, he bought fuel in jerry cans in his car boot which he used throughout his stay there? So, it would not be wrong to conclude that he was one of those that at one point or the other depleted the daily fuel consumption need of Nigerians for pecuniary advantage. Is this not smuggling? If government fails to curb corruption and smuggling because powerful elements are involved, should the ordinary people be made to bear the brunt? Atedo is just crying more than the bereaved by his pretensions to love the poor in the north than his seriously pauperised people in the Niger-Delta. For the better part of his life, he has lived in Lagos where he made money and name for himself. There are others like him from Jigawa, Akwa Ibom, Rivers, Enugu and

EXPRESSO STEVE OSUJI

SMS O8055001684 email:steve_osuji@yahoo.com

Fuel subsidy: a five-point epilogue reason, he chose to damn the people and even the country on the very first day of the year. He shocked and awed them; then he forced his bitter medicine down their throats in spite of their spirited protestations. Not finished, he placed his boot on their chests and made sure they swallowed it to the last drop. He then walked off triumphant, leaving the poor fellows flattened and prostrate. Being very early in his tenure, it looks like a long night lie ahead. It’ still corruption, stupid: it is soul-searing to see us work ourselves up to the state of dementia when we are simply suffering the effects of corruption and its sibling, ineptitude. We all know it, we see it all around us yet we shy away from dealing with it. It is corruption that has led us to budget three-quarters of our total income for consumption by ‘workers’. It is corruption that renders our budgets worthless while our national earnings are virtually disbursed by about 37 men from the back pockets of their pants. We have entire ministries, departments and agencies running on a superstructure of corruption and we choose to live with it. What, for instance, does the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) do? One has asked this question umpteenth time. It cannot drill for oil, it cannot keep tab of the quantity of crude drilled, it cannot maintain refineries, it cannot build new ones, it cannot even manage the importation of refined products from other lands not to talk of building storage capabilities. It cannot account for the taxes it takes from our oil businesses. This must be the wonkiest government

establishment in the history of mankind. A corporation that ought to catalyse Nigeria’s leap to modernity is a mere cesspit of sleaze. In the last two decades especially, NNPC has been completely damaged like an old hag. It has been reduced to a conduit pipe for slush funds. Why do we have to put up with this ogre? Of palliatives and laxatives: if this government was willing to spill the blood of the people to wrench the so-called subsidy from the people, why would anyone believe its singsong about palliatives? I must have heard it somewhere that government is eternally the art of the incongruous. That is why we are being mandated to fall sick so as to get palliatives. How much, really, is the entire subsidy which will rescue Nigeria from an imminence collapse and at once create an Eldorado of palliatives for the people? Are we not doomed if this savings from ‘subsidy’ is the main anchor for raising Nigeria into a modern state? Why is the government so vague about the real issue which is to upgrade our oil sector and build our refining and petrochemical sub-sector. These are the real palliatives and the only things that would rescue this administration and safe President Jonathan’s face. Propaganda is a concubine: some other authorities have also described propaganda as the handmaiden of the crooked and dishonest. Decent people don’t resort to propaganda, they press to work, facts and truths and keep repeating and burnishing them convinced that as divine statues, they would eventually prevail. But in pushing the

Kano among other states that live in the former capital of the federation. Many people from diverse ethnic background are daily trickling into Lagos. They feasted and are still feasting on Lagos infrastructure because of the tolerance of successive administrations in the state. It is on record that the highest Value Added Tax (VAT) to federal purse is gotten from Lagos but this fact was not taken into consideration when sharing VAT accruals. Also, the 13 per cent derivation that the oil producing states are enjoying today was made possible through the efforts of Akinrogun Segun Osoba and Asiwaju Bola Tinubu when as governors of Ogun and Lagos states, they pressurised the government of ex-President Olusegun Obasanjo to yield to their demand on this. Where was Atedo Peterside then? He felt unconcerned and was quietly busy making money simply because an Ijaw man was not president then. How many jobs have been created for the youths by the Niger-Delta governors and local government chairmen since they commenced collection of derivation? Has poverty been removed from their jurisdictions? Will the addition of subsidy money to that of derivation make any difference? Rather than engage in self ingratiating argument against Lagos, one thinks Atedo should commend Lagos to other governors whether in the north or south-south to come and learn something about governance that is working. Nigerians and particularly President Jonathan must realise that this Atedo of a man is not one of those with ideas that can move the nation forward. What is more saddening is his inclusion in the National Economic Management Team. If his twisted and illogical illuminations on Channels TV on subsidy and Lagos are anything to go by, then the outputs from the Economic Management Team of the president can be better imagined. May God save Nigerians from the likes of Atedo.

‘Let it be made known to Atedo that smuggling of fuel should not be a good reason for inflicting pain on the masses of this country under the guise of removal of fuel subsidy’ subsidy arguments, we were taken aback when we noticed government deploying falsehood, half-truths and outright blackmail to make its case. We became less convinced when we noticed the NTA being debased; we saw all the tell-tale signs of the perfidious periods of Abacha, Babangida and Obasanjo. Those who were undecided about Jonathan immediately got the needed corroboration that he was not real. Why was as much money being used for propaganda purposes to convince people to support ‘subsidy’ cut? Something was sure fishy. Going forward: we have been disvirgined and we have lost our innocence. All across the 36 states and the FCT Abuja, the people suddenly found the spunk stand up as one to say no. Apart from the M.K.O Abiola June 12 election (which was not totally total), never before have Nigerians risen as on in the manner they did from January 9 – 13, 2012. We tasted the forbidden fruit and is it delicious? We have found the totem of our sovereignty and someday, we will have to go get it. Meanwhile, the Jonathan government must cut the crap about palliatives and probes and build us refineries. This government would have been a colossal failure if by 2015 Nigeria is still importing petroleum products. Build refineries, that is the way forward. LAST MUG: Gov Chime, Southeast and the protests: as usual, governments and leaders of the East tried to undo themselves during last week’s nationwide fuel subsidy protests. While leaders of other zones of the country were at one with the people, we saw Ohaneze and some so-called leaders speaking through their stomachs. This has come to be our pattern during Nigeria’s great moments. Governor Sullivan Chime of Enugu state even got the prize: as if he lives in a bottle, he summarily abrogated the people’s right to protest in his ‘kingdom’. To prove his seriousness, he had one Comrade Festus Ozoeze picked up, tried at an emergency tribunal set up in the State Police Command and thrown behind bars. If we don’t grow up, the world will not wait for us. Meanwhile, Senator Uche Chukwumerije recently cried out that there is no major infrastructure project from the zone in the current federal budget – like the second Niger bridge, the dredging of the River Niger, Owerri-Aba road dualisation – not a word from our leaders on this.

THE NATION FRIDAY, JANUARY 20, 2012

FRIDAY, JANUARY 20, 2011

NATION SPORT T/TENNIS HUNGARY OPEN FALLOUT

I have to work harder, says Quadri

XPRESSING dissappointment at his early ouster from the Hungary Open Table Tennis Championship, the London 2012 Olympic Games bound Nigeria's table tennis star, Aruna Quadri has said that the development calls for more hard work on his part. While blaming the situation on his state of health before the match, he however, admitted that a lot still needs to be done as he prepares for the World Championship slated for Germany in March. “It was unfortunate that I lost 0-4 in my second match to a Spaniard. I was not really feeling too fine when I woke up this morning but I just managed to play the match,” he offered. “The player who beat me had

By Innocent Amomoh earlier lost to the Hungarian I beat 4-3 on Tuesday, This goes to show that I need to continue to work hard before the World Championship in Germany in March this year.” Having had a shaky victory in the first match, Quadri on Tuesday bowed out of the International Table Tennis Federation’s (ITTF) first Pro Tour of the year, the Hungary Open, after losing 0-4 to Spain’s Duran Marc in the second group match. Quadri struggled to beat homeboy Magyar Laszlo to set up the final clash against the Spaniard. The African sole flagbearer in the $35,000 prize money championship was so overwhelmed by the enormous support Laszlo got from home fans

Hotsports dissects 2012 CAN

ITH the 2012 Africa Cup of Nations kicking off this weekend, Nigeria’s leading sports programme on TV, Hotsports is setting the tone for a championship of surprises. Given that the continent’s football powerhouses, including Egypt, Cameroon and Nigeria, are absent from the party in Gabon and Equatorial Guinea, Hotsports’ analysts will be examining the prospect of a rookie side lifting the trophy when it is all over on February 12. The respected analysts, including Ade Ojeikere, Group Sports Editor of The Nation newspapers, his counterpart at THISDAY, Tunde Suleiman and Biola Kazeem will take the viewers through the landmines

Etuhu, 23, served less than four months of an eight-month sentence before he was released from prison. In June 2011, Etuhu, who can play as a striker, was linked to Barnsley and he was looking forward to reunite with Keith Hill whom he worked with at Rochdale in a bid to revive his career. But the deal fell through. Etuhu was last involved in a competitive match while on loan at Cardiff City in 2010. He also played four times for Leicester City while on loan in 2008.

QPR to offer £80,000-aweek deal for Onuoha

PR are prepared to offer Nedum Onuoha an £80,000-a-week contract in order to lure the Manchester City defender to

•Onuoha

Loftus Road, according to The Times. Onuoha is reportedly available for transfer having appeared just once, as a substitute, in the Premier League for City this season, having initially been left out of their 25-man squad. The deal would make the 25-year-old the highest-paid player at QPR, as new manager Mark Hughes looks to strengthen his squad in order to ensure Premier League survival. Onuoha is already being paid around £60,000-a-week at City, a claim, which has proven problematic for potential suitors as the 25-year-old is also reluctant to leave his boyhood club. Everton are also pursuing the former England Under-21 international, according to the report, but are likely to be priced out of a move by QPR, who are able to spend during the January window thanks to the backing of owner Tony Fernandes, who took over the club in August. QPR has been linked with unsuccessful bids for Blackburn Rovers defender Christopher Samba and Fulham striker Andy Johnson.

NATION SPORT

How Keshi snubbed G AFCONteamsforNigeria N

IGERIA‘s head coach, Stephen Keshi has said that he has had to snub jobs from two of the 2012 AFCON finalists. Keshi, 49, however, refused to mention the nations trying to lure him away from his present post as Super Eagles' manager in an interview with SuperSport.com on Wednesday. He added that before the two nations, Equatorial Guinea and Rwanda also approached him before he took up the Super Eagles' job last year.

•Quadri

NFF charges Flamingoes on World Cup ticket From Andrew Abah, Abuja

FF General Secretary Musa Amadu has charged the National Women U-17 team ( The Flamingoes) to emulate their predecessors by ensuring that they not only qualify for the World Cup, but endeavor to win the trophy for the country. The scribe who was addressing the players and officials before their departure to Kenya on Thursday said “I am sure many of you know that your predecessors who went to Trinidad and Tobago did very well and were only unfortunate to lose to the eventual winners South Korea in the quarter finals, so we are not expecting anything less than final game from you. But before, you can get to that stage you must first be able to surmount the African oppositions. Remember there are no minnows in football again, just as you are developing that is how other countries are also moving forward. We have decided to give you all the support you require, because you are the first among all teams that will be flying the nation’s flag in a major competition this year, so you must be ready to do the country proud, and also do yourselves proud”. He explained that all logistics have been provided to the team to overrun the Kenyans in their country on Saturday, to make the return leg a mere formality.

Manu shortlists 100 for Golden Eaglets

REVEALED

"I can tell you that two countries (featuring in the 2012 Africa Cup of Nations) wanted me to become their coach. But I have a job to do with Nigeria and that's why I'm here," said Keshi to SuperSport.com. "And before these two nations came to me, I had other offers from Equatorial Guinea and Rwanda before I became the coach of Nigeria. But I've always wanted to serve my country at this level and a lot of Nigerians also wanted me as the coach, so I had

Eagleshavelost‘market value’, says Green

first timers like Niger Republic, Botswana and the joint hosts would have to navigate to edge out veterans and favourites Ghana, Cote d’Ivoire, Tunisia, Zambia and Senegal. According to the Producer, Ufuoma Osusu, this week’s edition will also offer insightful information about the 2012 African Women Championship which is to be hosted by Equatorial Guinea, update on the Australian Tennis Open and a special feature on boxing legend Mohammed Ali at 70. For over one-and-a-half decades, Hotsports has ruled the Nigerian airwaves and filled the vacuum that existed in the information needs of Nigerian sports audiences. The 30minute television programme is broadcast on major network channels and many stations across the country.

Etuhu seals switch to Portsmouth

ICKSON Etuhu's younger brother, Kelvin, has reportedly completed a move to English Championship club, Portsmouth. The winger was signed by Portsmouth as a free agent after Manchester City released him following a street brawl that led to his serving a jail term last year. Portsmouth are reported to have sold off Hermann Hreidarsson to Coventry City since they are in administration in order to bring in Etuhu.

that after winning the first match easily at 11-6, the Nigerian lost two matches in a row to the Hungarian at 18-20, 8-11. Realizing that he was in the competition to better his ranking and also prove his mettle, Quadri rediscovered his form to win two matches at a stretch 11-4, 11-6. But the young Hungarian was boosted by the fans’ support to win the sixth match at 7-11. At the end, Quadri carried the day by ending the match 11-6 to win 4-3 overall. He tried so much to measure up with his opponent, all to no avail as he surrendered 11-7, 11-4, 11-7, 11-7 to exit the championship. A disappointed Quadri said yesterday that he was not feeling too well after the energy-sapping first encounter against the Hungarian.

IGERIA Football Federation (NFF) Technical Committee Chairman, Christopher Green has revealed to NationSport that the present Super Eagles squad has lost their market value, and can no longer be paid the jumbo allowance of N1.6 million ($10,000.00)per match. Explaining this in Abuja, the former Sharks FC of Port Harcourt scribe said “the allowance was fixed by the Petroleum Trust Fund (PTF) which was set up as an ad hoc committee for a certain intervention purpose. The Committee was disbanded immediately after serving their purpose. "Now we are out to face the reality on ground. There is economic melt

From Patrick Ngwaogu, Abuja down, we cannot sustain the payment of that amount. We have to cut it down. Moreover, the Super Eagles as presently constituted are no longer marketable because they are not winning matches, when they start winning, and the sponsors start coming, we would think of what to pay them. But not up to that amount again”. He said that plans are on the way to ensure that the team’s return to its winning state again “based on the programs submitted by the technical crew, which they started implementing, I’m very confident that we would return to that stage again”.

to turn down the offers." The former Mali and Togo coach also disclosed that the two nations offered him huge sums in remuneration, which he turned down. "Yes they have offered me big pay but I'm not in the job for the money and that's why I'm still the coach of Nigeria," he offered. The former Nigerian captain has become popular as a coach in the past seven years following his feat with Togo, where he led them to their first appearance at the Fifa World Cup in 2006. Keshi will be working as a TV pundit for SuperSport alongside his assistant, Daniel Amokachi during the 2012 AFCON which kicks off on January 21 in Equatorial Guinea and Gabon.

ARBA Manu, the Golden Eaglets’ Head Coach has revealed that over 100 Nigerians of school boy ages have already been pencilled down for screening once the National Under17 camp is open ahead of the qualifiers for the 2013 African Under17 Youth Championship. He said he was not oblivious of the fact that Nigerians are truly yearning to see real school boys in the team hence he and his lieutenants are combing the length and breadth of the country for talented youngsters. “The truth is that we have been working since our appointments were made public by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) last year,” noted Manu, a member of the coaching crew that won the Korea 2007 FIFA Under-17 World Cup for Nigeria. “I know what it entails in raising a good team and we are already working despite the fact that the contract papers are yet to be signed. I’m in contact regularly with Barrister Chris Green, the Chairman of the Technical Committee of the NFF as well as with my other

members of the coaching crew,” he added. Manu further explained that he is in total support of the NFF in ensuring that the right players are selected for the team so as to cement the future of Nigerian football, adding that his desire is to raise a team that is dedicated in approach and disciplined in outlook. “We have over 100 players for screening and these are players basically from soccer academies scattered all over the country and we are going to carefully select players that of the required age for the new Golden Eaglets, “emphasized Manu. “The truth is that players eventually selected to represent the country at the Under-17 level would be subjected to the MRI test so as to determine their true ages. “We are conscious of the fact that we need to select talented youngsters for this assignment and we are not going to deviate from doing the right thing. We are going to give the assignment our best shot and what we demand is support and cooperation of Nigerians,” he noted.

Work permit may stall Rabiu Ibrahim's Celtic deal

HOUGH Scottish giants Celtic have announced the signing of Nigeria Olympic team star Rabiu Ibrahim on a 3½ years contract, the move will, however, be determined by a successful completion of a work permit application to be considered early next week. The former PSV Eindhoven attacking midfielder impressed Celtic manager Neil Lennon on a recent trial. The 19-year-old Nigerian is a highly rated playmaker and made an impact in a bounce match against

St Johnstone at the start of the year when he played 60 minutes of the 32 victory. Lennon said he was delighted to have secured the deal. He told the club official website: “We have been very impressed by Rabiu. In my view he is a highly talented and exciting young player and someone who will be a tremendous addition to our squad. “He is a playmaker, well balanced and a very intelligent footballer. We are really looking forward to him joining us.” He was recently released by PSV

•Yakubu Aiyegbeni of Blackburn goes in with a dangerous tackle on Danny Murphy of Fulham to earn himself a Red Card

after he failed to break into the first team.

Taye Taiwo wanted in England, France

UT -OF-FAVOUR AC Milan left back taye Taiwo has a number of options in England and France, his agent revealed. Taiwo only landed at the San Siro in the Summer after his contract with Ligue 1 giants Marseille came to an end. However, the Nigerian has not made a splash in Serie A and convincing Rossoneri coach Massimiliano Allegri to hand him a playing time on the pitch has been hard. Indeed, Taiwo has started just four Serie A quit the Italian giants this month, even if that is not yet set in stone. "It is not definite that will leave Milan in January," commented his agent Fabio Parisi to Calcio Mercato. "We are looking at the situation with the club. I can confirm that offers have landed from France and England," he further said.

'Golden Eaglets’ coaches’ salary not slashed' From Andrew Abah, Abuja

HE Technical Committee Chairman of Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Christopher Green has insisted that the monthly emoluments of the Golden Eaglets’ Coaches were not slashed, instead, that it was reviewed upward. Revealing this to NationSport in Abuja, Green said “it is not true that we slashed the monthly emoluments due to the National U-17 team (Golden Eaglets) Coaches. What the last Coaches were paid was N150,000.00 for the Chief Coach and N100,000.00 for his Assistants. So if we decided to pay them N500,000.00 for the Chief Coach and N350,000.00 for the Assistants, then I wonder why people would say that we reduced the salaries due to the Coaches”. He said that none of the Coaches had ever disagreed with this position, that their agreement would soon be sorted out. Green further said that the team may not resume now, since CAF has not sent any program for the team “It is not logical to get them on board now, while there are no programs for them. We would invite them when the need arises” he concluded.

I desire a move to a bigger club-Uchebo

ICHAEL Okechukwu Uchebo is a former junior international and currently plies his trade with VVV Venlo of Holland. He is presently being courted by EPL club, Stoke City with whom he underwent successful trials with few days ago. He was in Nigeria last week for the funeral of his father, Late Christopher Uchebo and he had a brief chat with SPORTINGLIFE’S TUNDE LIADI. He spoke on his proposed move to Stoke and life in Venlo without Ahmed Musa among other issues. EXCERPTS to train with a top club in the EPL as A thought on late Christopher Uchebo Stoke. I was treated very well and it was My father was a great and influential fun training with some of their brilliant man that we could not just bury anyhow players. I was opportuned to see players like that we had to make adequate plans like Peter Crouch, Rory Delap, Jonathan to ensure that we gave him a befitting Woodgate and a host of others. I even burial. My siblings were outside the chatted with Crouch and he was lovely country and we actually waited for them to be with. I cannot emphatically say to be included in the burial programme. that I am already a player of Stoke We actually gave sufficient time to allow because I am not God but I hope that all those that ought to attend the funeral God is able to make it a reality. to be around. His only goal for Venlo this season I am very happy that we have been and the club battle with relegation able to give him a decent burial. It is Yes I have not been happy with myself normal that when one’s parent dies that not scoring for Venlo this season but one would say certain unprintable when the goal came I was a bit relieved. things but now I am relieved now that I wasn’t happy throughout though the burial had been held. We actually because we ended up losing that same expected more crowd than we had. The match 1-2 after scoring first. It was a strike action really affected many of tactical blunder from our coach he those that ought to come from Abuja, substituted me when we were still Lagos and other part of the country but leading 1-0 in the said match and our in all, I am happy that despite all the opponent piled up pressure after that difficulties, we were still able to have which yielded two late goals. I hope the this large crowd. I also had to go out of goal I scored the other day will herald a my way to be in the country despite the turnaround in my career and in Venlo strike because he meant so much to me. this season if I am unable to leave this I would not have been happy with January. myself if I was unable to witness the last National team ambition respect that I ought to have given to my It is my dream I want to play for the father. I had to make the trip to the East national team. I had a nice experience via the road because there was no when I represented Nigeria at the Under connecting flight to Enugu owing to the 20 level and it was so painful that Venlo strike. couldn’t release me for the Olympic Ahmed Musa’s move to Russia Qualifiers in Morocco it could have I knew he would move on this January afforded me the luxury of playing further because he did a lot of good things last games for my country and may be, we year. He played a lot of games for Venlo would have made it to the London 2012 and also was regular for the national Olympic Games. I don’t rush for team. I knew definitely that all his anything in life and I believe that at the exploits of 2011 would land him a new befitting stage I will play for the Super club this transfer window. I am happy Eagles. for him. He is my good friend and was His career in the next three years my roommate throughout his stay in I don’t think I have much to can say Holland. about where I hope to be in the next To say the truth, I will solely miss Musa three years. It is only God that knows but such is life he has to move on and I but I hope to be among the best by that believe I will not remain rooted at a spot time and also I desire to have moved on too and when the ideal period comes, I with my career in a more established will move to a bigger club with more club in Europe. challenges. I believe we shall still meet again and if not at the same club we shall meet in the national team in the near future. Update on his switch to Stoke City It wasn’t because Musa left Venlo that is making me to also push for a move. I just felt I have paid my dues in Venlo and I believe now is the time for me to seek another adventure in my career. It is my desire to excel more and move to a very ambitious club and that has been the key for my desire to leave Venlo now or latest at the end of the season. •Uchebo Yeah! Stoke City officials were very happy with me and they were happy with my performance too. Talks are ongoing between them and my representatives and as soon as the issue of work permit is sorted I could be a player of Stoke City this January. I don’t know how everything will turn out to be but I believe in due course, I shall be able to give correct situation of things. Experience in Stoke City and impression of the EPL I am really elated I had the opportunity

James Peters targets NFF

F NationSport finding at the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) Secretariat in Abuja is anything to go by, former NFF Assistant General Secretary James Peter may be on the way to make a return to the NFF, this time as the Technical Adviser of the National Women U-20 team. He may be assisted by the former Chief Coach of the team Edat Egat. The former BCC Lions of Gboko Chief coach was at the Glasshouse secretariat of the NFF to pick up his appointment letter on Wednesday. Speaking on the appointments in Abuja, the Technical Committee Chairman Christopher Green was not forthcoming on this, but insisted that the Committee would meet next week to take final decision on

From Patrick Ngwaogu, Abuja that. “I want to assure that recommendations have been made on that, and the NFF will announce it before next week, because the team is expected to begin preparation for a qualifying against Sierra Leone soonest. But I want to tell you that when the technical committee meets, they would take the final decision on that, performance will be the bedrock for the selection. It may the coaches, it may be other coaches, because the only thing that remains constant is change. But I want to tell you that based on performances, those coaches will be given topmost attention” he said.

ENHANCEMENT

CRIME

ADMONITION

A boost for agric

Market leader alleges threat to life

Nigerians urged to love one another

Delta

Lagos

FRIDAY JANUARY 20, 2012

Anambra

Page 25

Email: news_extra@yahoo.com

EVELOPMENT is coming to Afrike community in Cross River State, and its people have celebrated it in grand style. The entire community trooped into Okpeche-Afrike Primary School in the town where a carnival-like reception was held for an illustrious kinsman, Dr Thomas Agan, Chief Medical Director (CMD) of the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital (UCTH). Agan, a renowned gynaecologist, was described as a leading light in the community who not only rose to such an enviable height but also helped to push Afrike people up the ladder by facilitating jobs for them. Agan is also said to offer free medical services to his kinsfolk. Afrike, a sleepy town, is in Bekwarra Local Government Area of the state. The people hailed Dr Agan for being an agent of development in the community, bringing several people to limelight. On the reception day, Afrike came alive. The community literally stood still for the UCTH chief. It was a gathering of who is who from Bekwara as well as wellwishers at home and in the Diaspora. Amid a clement weather, the local school venue of the event was filled to capacity. It glittered with the colourful attires and uniforms of various age-grades and women groups. They sang and danced joyfully, displaying the community’s rich culture. “Never in our living memory have we been privileged to host a son of Afrike who has singularly climbed to such an exalted position as Dr Thomas Agan,” a member of the community told Newsextra. “Our happiness knows no bounds as we honour our accomplished son. He lives a life of service to God and humanity as he has proved himself the man of the people by operating pregnant women free and bringing healthcare delivery to the needy within the community.” Declaring the ceremony open, shortly after the welcome songs by Afrike women and school children to herald the arrival of Agan and

•Dr Agan and wife, Evelyn receive a gift from a women group

Community celebrates development Cross River town honours UNICAL Teaching Hospital chief From Nicholas Kalu, Calabar

his wife, Evelyn, the chairman of the occasion, Chief Peter Ojeh said Okpeche-Afrike community has indeed shown that a prophet can be

honoured everywhere, including his hometown. Ojeh, the Cross River State Deputy Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), eulogised Agan’s hard work and dedication to duty which

he said earned him an exalted position in such a revered health institution. He said: “Today because of his hard work and dedication, the government of the Federal Republic

of Nigeria has recognised and given him a critical institution like the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital to manage as head. We all know that health is •Continued on Page 26

More knocks for Jonathan over fuel price

•Prince Olabisi

stalwart of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), Prince Khalid Olabisi has dismissed the Federal Government’s reduction of petrol price from N140 to N97 per litre, saying anything short of total reversal to the old pump price of N65 is unacceptable. In a chat with Newsextra, Prince Olabisi described President Jonathan’s address to Nigerians in the early hours of Monday morning as diversionary. He urged the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Trade Union Congress (TUC), civil society or-

By Chinaka Okoro

ganisations and the masses to closely monitor government’s implementation of its avowed commitments to plough back proceeds that will accrue from fuel subsidy removal to economic development. Prince Olabisi, who was the House of Representatives candidate for Saki East and Saki West Local Governments of Oyo State on the platform of the ACN in last year’s general elections, explained that the removal of sub-

sidy on petrol by the Federal Government is unfortunate. He regretted that the government that the people voted into office could evolve such an anti-people policy. Olabisi, who retired from the Federal Ministry of Works in 2003 as a Senior Quantity Surveyor, also lamented that “the government that rode on the people’s back to power does not have passion and pity for Nigerians. The most annoying aspect of it is that government took Nigerians for granted. It proposed to withdraw the subsidy on petrol in

April, but surprisingly, on January 1 when Nigerians were still mourning their kith and kin who were killed in the Madala bomb blast, it inflicted another agony on the people by removing the subsidy on petrol.” Noting that petrol is such a single petroleum bye-product that is pivotal in every economic activity of the Nigerian people, the ACN stalwart stated that the action would further impoverish the masses who are living on less than $2 a day. •Continued on Page 27

THE NATION

FRIDAY, JANUARY 20, 2012

Community celebrates development •Continued from page 25 wealth. If you don’t have a healthy body, you will never be able to achieve anything. Therefore those who have responsibility for managing our health are critical to our very being as a people. That is the kind of responsibility that our son is bestowed with. “Since we have recognised all the labour that went into the building of this man who is today head of the UCTH, God will bless this community. Because we know that health is critical to our wellbeing, God will keep us healthy because we know that if Dr. Agan succeeds we have all succeeded.” To the community, he said: “Today, you have told the world that this man is from here and has this responsibility. He has his people and his people are solidly behind him. Let me assure you that because you recognise your son, God who gave him this job will also recognise you.” Chairman of Okpeche-Afrike Community, Mr. Joe Ekpang described the occasion as unique in the annals of the community’s history as the people of AfrikeOkpeche gathered to give honour to whom it is due. Ekpang said: “Our happiness knows no bounds. Every community looks forward to a day when the sun would stand still on account of the achievements of its sons and daughters. Today the sun and all other natural elements would stand still for Dr. Agan in whom we have collective sense of pride and thanksgiving.” He recalled that in the past, the history of Okpeche in particular and Afrike as a whole was replete with a yawning gap in qualified manpower in various fields of human endeavour, saying that the picture has changed with the emergence of one of their sons and other graduates in various fields. “Dr Agan for whom we have gathered today has brought us joy and fulfillment, paving the way for the entire Afrike community to be seen and heard in medical circles around the world. Many did not believe he would win the titanic struggle, but he did and today he is the CMD of the UCTH. Today we celebrate, hail and appreciate him for his overall achievements. On our part we urge you to remain accessible, focused and humble as you have always been,” he said. Director of Administration of UCTH, Barrister Archibong Okon, called on the Afrike people to

•Royal fathers at the ceremony

Many did not believe he would win the titanic struggle, but he did and today he is the CMD of the UCTH. Today we celebrate, hail and appreciate him for his overall achievements. On our part we urge you to remain accessible, focused and humble as you have always been support the present administration at the teaching hospital for effective service delivery. Okon further described the CMD as “a man so dear to our hearts, who has a simple disposition and wealth of experience in human relations,” adding “he is not a stranger where he works. He has so integrated himself into the community.” Pledging the total support of the entire hospital community to Agan’s success, he said, “We are behind you and would continue to do only those things that would move the hospital forward and also your regime forward, so that people back home would always receive good news to remind them that their son is somewhere doing a good job.” Bekwara Local Government Chairman, Mr Legor Idagbo, a

lawyer, lauded Agan for his efforts in caring for the needy especially expectant women within the period of his medical practice. Idagbo urged him to keep up the Bekwara spirit as he strives to take the hospital to higher heights.

The council boss added: “We are happy to be here to celebrate our illustrious son, Dr Thomas Agan. When he declared his intentions to be CMD, I supported him fully despite the odds. The Bekwara spirit is a spirit that whatever you want to achieve, if you put in your all, you will achieve it.” Responding, the CMD, Dr Thomas Agan, commended his people for the honour, saying he was impressed with the spirit of love and togetherness exhibited by the people of Okpeche-Afrike. Agan expressed gratitude to the community for standing behind him during the struggle for the exalted position. His words: “I went into the race of CMD as an underdog because I had no godfather, but your prayers and the Bekwara spirit saw me

through and I will not let you down in any way.” The CMD, fondly called “Homeboy” by his friends, clad in Benue-Bekwara Ankara attire, said: “I feel highly elated on a day like this. For the community to think it wise to recognise me is something I cannot fail to say thank you. God who has given you this wisdom will continue to bless and strengthen you in all that you do. For the younger generation, it pays to work hard. I started in this community and I schooled in this village, but if you work hard in any situation, you will have that reward from God.” Highlights of the reception were display of traditional dances by both men and women, the presentation of gifts by various groups. The OkpecheAfrike community also presented 100 tubers of yams and a he-goat.

Honour for kind-hearted monarch

HE Africa and Child Development Foundation (ACDF) has honoured Okuku Okokon Udonwa with the title of Grand Monarch of the Niger Delta Chiefs and Community Head of Ifa Atai Etoi, in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State. Speaking during the colourful ceremony, the International

•Street markets back in full swing in Lagos after the suspension of fuel subsidy protests

From Kazeem Ibrahym, Uyo

President of ACDF, Dr. Benjamin Bassey, said the monarch was honoured because of his contributions to the uplift of the less privileged in the society. Bassey described the monarch as a king of impeccable attributes who has the power and wisdom not only to bring succour and unity into Akwa Ibom State but to the Niger Delta, Nigeria and Africa in general. His words: “As Patron and African Child Ambassador, the grand monarch is automatically a member of the governing council of Africa and Child Development Foundation. The governing council has the likes of Oba of Badagry Kingdom, the Chancellor of University of Port Harcourt, Oba of Lagos, Alaafin of Oyo, Ooni of Ife and a monarch in South Africa, to mention

but few. “We have carefully selected the royal fathers all over Africa to represent the affairs of the Africa Child and we shall continue to carry them along even in the first Humanitarian University which the foundation (ACDF) has proposed to be sited in Akwa Ibom State. “The management of ACDF sees Governor Godswill Akpabio as a gift to the state because of his involvement in the development of education of the child in Akwa Ibom State.” Apart from bestowing the title on Udonwa, ACDF also honoured Pius Akpan, a community leader in Mbiabong Etoi. According to the Foundation, Akpan, as a former Executive member of Nigeria Agip Oil Company, contributed immensely to the development of the community.

THE NATION

FRIDAY, JANUARY 20, 2012

•Management of the Federal Polytechnic, Oko, and members of the Alumni Association, Philadelphia, USA

S part of efforts to encourage inter-school research, the Federal Polytechnic, Oko in Orumba North Local Government of Anambra State has concluded plans to construct residential quarters for foreign students in the institution. The Rector of the school, Prof. Godwin Onu announced this when members of the institution’s alumni association, Philadelphia, United States of America (USA) Chapter paid him a courtesy visit. Onu said the move became imperative to give foreign students a sense of belonging and encourage more students who are interested to enroll in exchange programmes with the polytechnic. According to him, “In our aggressive drive to go beyond bor•Continued from page 25 He faulted government’s argument that subsidising petrol encourages corruption and enriches a few individuals to the expense of a large percentage of the population, adding that “if government can not properly do its job of governance, it should inform the people that voted it into power. If it is convinced that there are some corrupt elements in the system, it is the duty of government to clamp down on those whose actions it perceived to be inimical to the economic well-being of the country. “I therefore urge the government, especially the President to resign if he knows that he cannot lead this country well. He promised that he will stamp out corruption, but instead of doing that, corruption is becoming more endemic.” He opined that “Government should retain fuel subsidy while

Quarters for foreign poly students From Adimike George, Onitsha

ders and display our potentials, we opened up so many avenues locally and internationally which has yielded indications for exchange programmes here. “We have already mapped out massive land for this project and we are mopping up funds to commence. The polytechnic has opened its doors to collaborations with foreign universities and colleges, for instance, Leicester College United Kingdom, Sharda University India, Edu Com India and so many others to widen its scope of academic exploits,” he said. He further told the alumni that

their alma mater has changed positively with activities aimed at establishing and maintaining high academic standard. The Rector, who was flanked by his Management staff also said, “our ambition is to make

and leave here a university of science and technology. Yabatech was granted a University of Science and Technology in the West, same was done with Kaduna Polytechnic in the North, and if justice should roll

We have already mapped out massive land for this project and we are mopping up funds to commence. The polytechnic has opened its doors to collaborations with foreign universities and colleges

down like water, then we should have one in the East. The only ripe and proper place for that is here in Oko. “Our people have ingenuity but the platform for them to develop should be created. That is why we go cap in hand begging for resources to develop this place and get to international standards so that it can easily take off as a university of science and technology once it is so granted.” He said that the institution had recently commenced online access of results and is working on plans to link up with virtual classrooms and libraries overseas, adding that the polytechnic would soon acquire biometric identity cards “to check regularity to work and •Continued on Page 39

More knocks for Jonathan over fuel price expediting action on the construction of the proposed three refineries. The ones we have are outdated. Fuel subsidy should be removed as soon as these new refineries became optimally functional.” Prince Olabisi maintained that “it is a pity that the government which has made so much noise about transforming Nigeria has not taken the construction of the three refineries for which it signed agreement with the Chinese government, seriously.” Maintaining that Nigeria which is about the sixth largest producer of oil in the world has no business being in any form of oil-related crisis disclosed that “in Venezuela, price of a litre of petrol is less than N5. Venezuela has refinery in the United States of America. What it does is to take its crude oil to the refinery in US

I therefore urge the government, especially the President, to resign if he knows that he cannot lead this country well. He promised that he will stamp out corruption, but instead of doing that, corruption is becoming more endemic

for refining and pays for the cost of refining the crude and then sells at reduced rate to the people. “Nigeria should adopt such method by taking our crude oil to some other countries to refine and then bring the refined product into the country. That way, petrol will be sold to Nigerians at reasonably affordable rate.” He further stated that removal of subsidy on fuel while at the same time devaluing the Naira would result in increase in the cost of production for the few companies that are still existing, noting that the situation would result in loss of additional jobs since the firms would have no option than to sack some workers in order to survive. He also disclosed that the situation would lead to the unavoidable increase in the cost of the companies’ products which they will eventually pass on to the final consumers. While expressing fears that government’s argument that it would use the funds that would accrue from subsidy removal to enhance economic and infrastructural developments, Prince Olabisi noted that “on paper, the tenets of subsidy removal is to aid infrastructural improvement by making more funds available to government to execute life-touching projects. “The current mediocre level of government’s investment that translates to crippling percentage

of poverty in Nigeria indicates that government can not be trusted in this regard. This is not the first time previous administrations had removed subsidy on petrol, yet they could not fulfil their promises of bettering the lives of the people. For goodness sake, Nigerians are tired of these empty promises. This government has a credibility problem.” He proffered some solutions. First, he said, government should establish handy but compact refineries that would be refining our petroleum products locally. Second option, according to the Quantity Surveyor, is that government should sell the products to refiners at domestic prices as against selling at international rate. The third option, he said, is that government should vigorously pursue the revitalisation of the railways. If Nigerians are given

alternative means of transportation as against road transportation system, all this noise about fuel subsidy removal would not have arisen. Prince Olabisi opined that private companies should also be encouraged to establish refineries to complement government-owned ones. He was of the view that President Jonathan might have lost focus and ideas, even as he stated that “the mass action which fuel subsidy removal elicited being a national issue, the President’s address to the people of Nigeria was belated, adding that “he ought to have addressed the people before now. “If Mr President knows what he is doing, he should have addressed the people earlier than when he did, at least to explain his insistence on the removal of the subsidy on fuel,” he said.

THE NATION FRIDAY, JANUARY 20, 2012

Delta to boost agriculture

•Governor Uduaghan

HE Delta State Commissioner for Economic Planning,Mr Kenneth Okpara, says the state government will restructure its agricultural programmes to boost food production and create employment for youths. Okpara told journalists in Asaba that the revamping would begin with the provision of adequate funds and facilities such as tractors to farmers. He said the government would also invest in the production of some critical crops, including cassava, palm oil and rice. To ensure its sustainability, Okpara said the government had paid all outstanding counterpart funds to all agriculture-support

Group tackles poverty, illiteracy

HE Civil Awareness and EconomicEmpowerment Initiatives (CAEI) has decried the growing level of poverty and illiteracy among rural dwellers in Anambra State, disclosing plans to systematically tackle the growing menace through Co-operative Society Services and enlightenment. Speaking during the official inauguration of CAEI in the state, the state chairman, Dr Chukwumah Ignatius Nwabueze, hinted that the operations of the group is a clear departure from ways non governmental organisations operated in the past, assuring that with its articulated programme, which included both micro and macro credit schemes, CAEI will deliver on its core mandate of poverty alleviation. Nwabueze, who decried the level of poverty in most communities in Anambra State, hinted that the growing membership of the group is a pointer to the fact that the people are desperate to put an end to poverty, which he said is largely responsible for the growing insecurity in the country.

Anambra He maintained that since the introduction of the CAEI in the state at the tail end of last year, there has been aggressive awareness campaign which he said, was targeted at entrenching the group in the local government areas of the state pending its full take-off. The medical doctor turned activist, disclosed that CAEI is a non-governmental organisation, founded to partner with all levels of government and nongovernmental institutions to counter the socio-political and cultural vices occasioned by abject poverty and illiteracy. He assured that whatever grant allocated to it by the state will be judiciously utilised to sustain the fight against poverty and illiteracy, adding that the era of non accountability in the management of public funds is gone, assuring that he will operate an open policy that will allow effective supervision by all the members.

Igbo-Ukwu women praise govt

RESIDENT General of Igboukwu Development Union women wing, Mrs Patience Enenmo-Akaekpuchionwa has praised Anambra State government for donating oil processing machines to the union. She said the women received the machines worth several millions of Naira with gratitude The donation was meant to fight abject poverty and neglect among skilled and unskilled widows , physically challenged and orphans. Wife of the Anambra State Governor, Mrs Margaret Peter Obi donated the machine on behalf of the government. She encouraged them to make adequate use of the oil processing machine. Mrs Enenmo thanked the state government for being women and child-friendly, itemising three projects which the women have earmarked to do to include furnishing the town hall of Amaehuzu with upholstery seats and befitting tables; installing and providing structures for the oil processing machines received from the government and establishing poultry farm for the women. She rendered an unchallenged account of the association since 2008 to date and

Delta programmes operating in the state. “It is our conviction that with agriculture we can build the state without oil. “We have realised that most farmers in the state are into cassava production and we have decided to provide funds and other support measures that they require. “Part of the support is that we are increasing our fleet of tractors and other facilities, and these will be made available to the farmers to aid their activities.We are also returning to oil palm production, which used to be a staple of the state.” The commissioner said the government was going into full-scale rice production “because we think there are communities that can grow rice in abundance when you give them the funding and other incentives”. He, however, gave assurance that other areas of agriculture would not be relegated, saying that the government would sustain the momentum in all aspects of production in the sector. Okpara announced that from now, the state government would relate directly with the farmers “and not extend facilities to them through middlemen”.

•Chairman, Amuwo Odofin Local Goverment, Comrade Ayodele Adewale congratulating Hon Buraimoh Valentine(right), Supervisor for Works and Housing. From left are Sultan Adeniji-Adele, Vice Chairman Alhaja Qudirat Dada and Legal Adviser Bidemi Sowobi at the inauguration of the council members.

Obi promises to complete work on bridges

NAMBRA State Governor Peter Obi has assured residents of the state that all on-going bridge projects will be completed within his tenure. He made this promise during the inspection of the on-going Ebenebe Bridge. Governor Obi expressed happiness over the progress of work at the bridge, saying that he was happy that light vehicles had started crossing it and expressed optimism that in few weeks time, it will start carrying all manner of vehicles. He thanked the contractor handling the project, Brecco, and appealed to him not to relent. He said that the construction of the road would be pursued in earnest once the bridge is fully completed.

Anambra On other bridges in different parts of the state that his government is constructing, Obi said that he was committed to all of them. He said: “I completed the projects I inherited from others and some that were abandoned many years ago. I cannot abandon my own projects. As to the bridges, it is on record that we are doing about 15 of them. We have completed some such as Odor, Umuodu, Otuku, Aghomili, Ogbe, among others. We are working frantically on others such as Ebenebe. As I speak, work is also going on Ogbunabo, connecting Okpuno and Isuanacocha. We shall even commence others

that are very critical to us.” On the ongoing subsidy problem, Obi called for the understanding of Nigerians. He described the vituperations being heaped on the President as not necessary and insisted that through the decision, the President is bent on introducing a new order that would be beneficial to Nigerians. “When Margaret Thatcher did the same, the same forces that demonised her commended her many years after all she did started bearing fruits.” “ The same,” he said, “would happen to Jonathan.” He, however, regretted what he called people trying to play politics with the issue in order to appear to be on the side of the people, when they are actually prescribing scorpion for a people that needed bread.

Orji urges sacrifice Abia From Ugochukwu Eke, Umuahia

Orji said that the love and labour the fallen heroes gave to the Nigerian nation will continue to keep their memories indelible in the minds of every Nigerian, adding that it was enough reason for government to feel much concerned for the welfare of the fallen heroes’ families. In his remarks at the occasion, the state chairman of the Nigerian Legion Abia State chapter, Squadron Leader Emmanuel Eke Kalu (rtd) urged government and individuals to continue to show love to the families of the fallen heroes especially towards their welfare.

By Jeremiah Oke

• From left: Mr Sulaiman Dhikrullahi; Chairman, Safamaq Group of Companies, Arc Mutiu Adeboye; Alhaji AbdulKareem Kadri and Head of Field Operations, Hajj Mabrur Ventures Limited, Alhaji Abdulhameed Solate at ‘a million-man special Jumat service’ at Ojota, Lagos.

‘Ensure effective primary health system’

HE Federal Government has been urged to provide adequate funding for colleges of health technology to ensure effective primary health care system. Rising from a maiden meeting in Abuja, Provosts of colleges of health technology said their institutions have a pivotal role to play in the nation’s health care sector. In a communique read by the chairman of the group, Dr.Tunji Dawodu, they said:”The Primary Healthcare Develeopment Agency(PHCDA) should play active pivotal role in strenthening capacity building in the various colleges of health technology by providing books and equipment through the donor agencies,as it was done in the past. “The Federal Ministry of Health should develop interest in the growth of colleges of health technology so that the objectives of the National System will be realised bearing in mind that about 90 percent of primary healthcare workers are products of our institutions” Dawodu flayed what he called the exclusion of colleges of health technology by the

By Kunle Akinrinade

Tertiary Education Fund (ETF) from its funding schedule and underfunding by state governments. “There is no need for selective funding of tertiary institutions while some are excluded from funding list.Therefore,the Tertiary Education Fund(ETF) formerly known as Education Trust Fund(ETF) should include the colleges of h e a l t h technology in its f u n d i n g schedule while s t a t e governments should provide better funding of colleges of h e a l t h technology.

•Dawodu

AS part of its efforts to give back to its customers, Pixels Colour Laboratory, Ibadan, Oyo State, has rewarded some of its customers with prizes in a monthly raffle draw held at the company’s premises recently. The Acting General Manager of the company, Mr Kazeem Oseni, said the action was a way the organisation could appreciate the customers for their patronage. According to him: “We feel that it is time to give back to our customers who have been patronising us over the years. This is aimed at motivating them to patronise us the more”. Winner of power generating set, Nathaniel Erinwusi of God is Able Photos and Video Productions, Ibadan, could not hide his feelings saying that, “I’m very grateful to Pixels for putting together this kind of programme. Initially, when I was called on phone that I have won a generating set, I thought it was a joke until I got here and was handed over the generating set”. Another winner, Kolawole Adetunji of Tuntik Photos who won a D-60 digital camera after was adjudged as the highest spender for the month of December, 2011, also lauded Pixels for appreciating its customers. This, he said, will spur them to continually patronise the company.

NE week after the general strike over the removal of fuel subsidy, traders at the commercial city of Onitsha, Anambra State are counting their losses. The traders said for the one week the strike lasted, their going to the market was mere formality as no buyer came to buy anything. One of them at the Amazing Grace Plaza at the Onitsha Main Market, Mr. Charles Umezeoke, said the strike was felt more at the market contrary to the belief that the traders did not

• The National President of The National Council of Women Society, Chief Mrs Nkechi Okemini-mba (right)with Bianca, wife of Late Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu during the council’s visit to the widow at her GRA residence in Enugu PHOTO: OBI CLETUS

Chris Anyanwu bags award HIS Day Newspapers has selected Senator Chris Anyanwu (MFR), representing Owerri Senatorial Zone as one of the Most Outstanding Female Achievers in Nigeria to be honoured with a prestigious Award for Excellence in their forthcoming 17th Annual Awards Ceremony. The Newspaper’s Board of Editors said that the Distinguished Senator merited the award based on her commitment last year in uplifting the living standard of members of her constituency. This, they insisted, is justified in her philanthropic multi-million Naira economic empowerment programmes and attraction of social amenities that gave life a meaning to most members of her constituency even as she sourced for employment opportunities for youths of her constituency. They also applauded her doggedness in ensuring the accelerated development of her Senatorial Zone as justified by her efforts in ensuring that Federal University of Technology,

• Orji

Subsidy: Onitsha traders count losses

Firm rewards customers

•Chairman, Lagos Mainland Local Government Area, Mr Oladele Adekanye(left) with the Council Secretary, Alhaji Tajudeen Tijani, at the inauguration of the council’s executive committee.With them are the Council Manager Mr Nurudeen Anibaba and the Legal Officer, Mr Rabiu

BIA State Governor Theodore Orji has called on Nigerians irrespective of their political leanings to offer limitless sacrifices for the corporate existence of the country, saying that such sacrifices will help the present administration to attain the goal of building a great nation. Speaking at the parade and wreath laying ceremony marking the 2012 Armed Forces Remembrance Day celebration held at the Aguiyi Ironsi Cenotaph, Umuahia, Orji said that it is only when sacrifices are made that even development will be achieved. On the recent nation-wide strike caused by the removal of petrol subsidy, Orji said that just like the nation’s fallen heroes made sacrifices, the citizenry should be ready to emulate them if the nation must move forward. Orji said: “Our nation requires from us limitless sacrifices, if we must remain the desired prosperous, united and indivisible nation under God, no sacrifices made by workers of this nation at this trying time will be forgotten by generations yet unborn”. The governor who was represented by his deputy, Col. Emeka Ananaba (rtd) said that, “It is very apt to recall here that the slogan of this years’s Armed Forces Emblem launch was, ‘One Nigeria one emblem’. This is a reminder for all of us especially in this trying days of strikes and fuel subsidy removal”. He enjoined all Nigerians to join in singing the choruses of selfless sacrifices for the good of the nation and at the same time take up the challenge individually to make sacrifices for the good of the nation.

Briefly

From Odogwu Emeka Odogwu, Nnewi

submitted a list of over 2,000 widows from the community that needed empowerment to the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development , Dr Mrs Cordelia Ego Uzoezie who represented the wife of the governor. The president general praised the Women Affairs Commissioner for her Think Home Philosophy and thanked Mr and Mrs Ephraim Okoli for donating the parcel of land for the installation of the oil processing machines. Speaking earlier , the Wife of the Governor , Mrs Obi represented by Dr Mrs Uzoezie promised to empower 72 indigent women from Igboukwu through the feed the family foundation. She explained that government was distributing the oil processing machines to communities in the state to enable them to be production based . She further said that through that the villagers would feel the impact of government directly and praised the women wing leadership led by Mrs Patience EnenmoAkaekpuchionwa for pioneering the affairs of the women wing with passion. She urged her not to relent in her efforts praising their accountability and stewardship to women.

From: Emma Mgbeahurike, Owerri.

Owerri (FUTO) is now the only centre for Atomic Energy Research in Nigeria and the attraction for the dualisation and rehabilitation of a major federal high way that would connect with ease Owerri – Umuahia as well as Port Harcourt to Enugu. These, they said, are no mean feat as the Senator who is the Senate Committee Chairman on Navy said she dedicated the award to her father, late Chief N.D. Ukah and to the good and courageous people of Owerri Senatorial Zone for their unflinching support, trust, confidence and cooperation. She re-assured of her patriotic commitment towards good governance as well as a qualitative and effective representations.

From Chuks Adimike, Onitsha

comply with the strike. He said that the reason why the traders at the commercial city did not join the strike was because there was no Federal Government presence in the city, adding that the city and its residents have been surviving through self help. According to him, the traders saw the strike as another way to cripple them since they feed from what they get on daily basis, noting that the traders were not against the strike but the timing especially when they were coming back from the Christmas and New Year celebration where they spent a lot of money. But he decried the strike saying that it has impoverished the traders and urged the Federal Government to stop playing deaf with the request of the workers which he said was genuine. Another trader at Marine Modern Market Onitsha, Mr. Nnamdi Bongos, said he did not sell anything for the one week the strike lasted. He wondered the type of government that refused to listen to its people especially when the people have insisted that the policy of the government was against the interest of the citizens. According to him, the present action of the Federal government was reminiscent of the military era when a ruler wakes up and issue policies at his own will not minding the opinion of the governed.

Church holds convention

HE Divine restoration Ministries Incorporated has begun its 9th Annual World Convention. The event would end on Saturday, January 22. It holds at Celebration Hall, Jehovah Jireh Plaza, 128, Ago Palace way, Cement Bus Stop, Okota Isolo, Lagos, 6pm every day. The programme has as its theme: Open Havens, God’s Visitation and Dominion over the Earth. According to the host, Pastor Cyril Favour Iroezindu, this year’s programme is set to draw people to God to teach them the holy scripture, wisdom and give them divine direction. Pastor Iroezindu said: “The essence is to heal the nation and Nigerians,” adding that through this heavens will open for the country. Other prayer highlights include: The power of God’s presence, divine provision and solution to financial problems. Anointed men of God expected include, Sam Adegboyega Blessing Iroezindu, Isreal Oluayo, Adedeji Thomas and Joseph Israel.

Lawmakers warn over attacks on Igbo

HE South-East Caucus in the House of Representatives has warned that the recent random killing of Igbos in some parts of the North may portend dire consequences for the country if not checked immediately. The caucus in a statement said that the killings may be construed by many Nigerians as a smokescreen for ethnic cleansing, and warned that the situation “should not be allowed to get to a point where citizens will have to defend themselves with all necessary means, from further attacks.” In a press statement which was presented by their leader, Ogbuefi Ozongbachi at the National Assembly recently, the lawmakers warned that the Igbo may no longer “raise up their hands in helpless surrender.”

From Victor Oluwasegun and Dele Anofi, Abuja

The caucus said that the political, religious and traditional leadership in the places where Igbos have lost their lives and property have a duty to renounce such atrocities, as well as protect the interests of Nigerian citizens with an aim of forestalling a re-occurrence. The statement reads in part: “From Madalla to Mubi, Potiskum to Damaturu, the statistics of human casualties continue to mount with each passing day, as the dithering nation watches helplessly. “Indeed, the festival of violence against our kith and kins resident in the North is repeated with such disgust and daring regularity that the issue is no longer where else, but how many have died.

•Chairman Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE),Ikosi Isheri Local Council Developemnt Area, Comrade Bankole Oduguwa, (right) presenting a plaque to the Council Chairman, Hon Abdul Fatahi Oyesanya and his wife during the end of the year party at the council secretariat

THE NATION FRIDAY, JANUARY 20, 2012

PEOPLE THE NATION

A SEVEN-PAGE SECTION ON SOCIETY

Life is all about giving. And because he gave in his lifetime, the late Alhaji Abdul-Lateef Ishola Onanuga, a teacher and community leader, was honoured by his people in Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State, on January 7. ADEJO DAVID was there.

PHOTO: ADEJO DAVID

•Oba Adetona flanked by Otunba Onanuga (left) and Aremo Osoba

Sweet is the memory of the righteous

HEY came neither to watch a football match nor to attend a rally, even though the venue was an international stadium. They gathered to celebrate the life of the late Alhaji Abdul-Lateef Ishola Onanuga. The dignitaries came in their numbers. Among them was the Deputy Governor of Ogun State, Prince Segun Adesegun; former Governor Segun Osoba; Senator Lekan Mustafa, and the Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona, the Ogbaga II. Others are Oba Sikiru Adedoyin Salisu; Prof Simbo Banjoko and the Chief Executive officer of FirstBank Nigeria Plc, Bisi Onasanya. There were also the Ogun State House of Assembly Deputy Speaker, Tola Banjo; Lagos State Commissioner for Works & Housing, Bosun Jeje and his Commerce & Industry counterpart, Ademorin Kuye; Colonel Opeoluwa Awokoya and the immediate younger brother of the deceased, Alhaji Sabitu Mustafa Onanuga. Guests looked resplendent in the wine colour Damask (Aso Ebi) chosen for the ceremony. Others in blue Ankara with black designs. The deceased’s elder son, the Giwa Bobakeye Akile-Ijebu, Otunba Abiodun Onanuga, stood out in his wine and gold “damask.” The event was to pray for the deceased and his family. The presiding Imam and the Nabil-Imam of Ijebuland, Alhaji Abdul-Rasaq Salawudeen, challenged the gathering to emulate Onanuga, who was a teacher and a

sportsman. His feat in athletics, according to him, was legendary as he was said to have broken the 110 yards record in athletics at the Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, during a sports meet in the early 70s. He described the late Onanuga as “a quiet, soft-spoken gentleman,” who never got angry and always “smiled at provocations.” In a tribute to the deceased, his daughter, Tosin, said: “My father was my friend, teacher, coach and adviser. He was my longjump and triple-jump coach. My first driving instructor, my Mathematics and English tutor, my friend in need, who gave me fatherly advice. I learnt a lot from him. The most important is being content with what you have and still enjoy life without burdens.” She described her father as “a man of integrity and intelligence, a respected man in the society who was selfless and served without expecting favour in return.” The prayer session was also a time for thanksgiving and offering to Almighty. Oba Adetona thanked God for the life of the late Onanuga and donated some money for the ongoing project – Awujale Central Mosque. The Eketa Adini of Ijebuland, Alhaji Muftau Ayanbadejo, prayed for life of the members of the Onanuga family. He prayed for Allah’s blessings upon them. A band dished out Islamic gospel music in the background as well wishers and guests showered on the bereaved family. Guests were treated to sumptuous local and continental dishes, as well as choice drinks.

•Prince Adesegun •More pictures on page 30

THE NATION FRIDAY, JANUARY 20, 2012

SOCIETY •Continued from page 29

•From right: Mr Onasanya; Yeye Folashade Igun and Mrs Funke Onasanya

•Alhaji Sabitu Onanuga (left) and Chief Laide Oropo

•From left: Mr Kuye; Mr Jeje and Mr Adeyinka Jeje

•Otunba Bimbo Ashiru (left) and Prof Toyin Ashiru

• Mr Tunde MacAlabi and his wife Bukie •Alhaji Salawudeen (left) and Alhaji Ayanbadejo

•From left: Mrs Sherifat Agbojo; Olori Shade Kasali; Lanre Oyewole; Bisola Badmus and Gbade

•From left: Alhaja Amira Araba; Mrs Adeola Olushola and Prof Simbo Banjoko

10TH ANNIVERSARY LECTURE FOR THE LATE ATTORNEY-GENERAL AND MINISTER OF JUSTICE CHIEF BOLA IGE

•From left: Prof Femi Osofisan, Prof Akinwumi Ishola and Prof Akin Oyebode

•Awa Bamiji

•Prof Adelabu

THE NATION FRIDAY, JANUARY 20, 2012

SOCIETY 72ND BIRTHDAY OF CHIEF RASAK AKANNI OKOYA AT HIS LEKKI RESIDENCE, LAGOS

•The celebrator flanked by his wife Sade and Alhaja Kuburat. With them are Chief Molade Okoya-Thomas; Master Subomi Okoya and Miss Olamide Okoya

•From left: Ms Bimbo Aka-Bashorun; Mrs Kemi Nelson and her daughter Adetoun

•Son of the celebrator Mr Lanre Okoya

•Senator Ademola Seriki; Mr Yinka Adeola and wife Labake

•Chief Kesington Adebutu and wife Tope

•Prince Supo Adetona and wife Yetunde

•Chief Samuel Adedoyin (right) and Chief Gboyega Oladipo

•Justice George Oguntade and wife Modupeola

•From left: Mr Royer Woodbridje; Mrs Elaine Hall and Mr David Edwards

•From left: Imam Maroofdeen Akintola and Alfa of Lagos Shiekh Tijani Gbajabiamila and missioner, Nawair-Ud-Deen Society of Nigeria Alhaji Shehu AbdulMajeed PHOTOS: OMOSEHIN MOSES

THE NATION FRIDAY, JANUARY 20, 2012

‘Mother of faith’ goes home She was dubbed “mother of faith” because she was a pillar of support to her husband, Alhaji Garuba Akinola Ibrahim, the Chief Imam of Lagos. On January 8, final funeral rites were held for Alhaja Muibat Aduke Ibrahim, at the Oluwole Car Park opposite the Lagos Central Mosque. Governor Babatunde Fashola led dignitaries to the ceremony, AMIDU ARIJE reports. USLIM clerics, friends, family members, politicians and others shone like thousand stars as they trooped into the venue of the fidau for Alhaja Muibat Aduke Ibrahim, wife of the Chief Imam of Lagos, Alhaji Garuba Akinola Ibrahim. The Oluwole Car Park was filled as Muslim faithful kept streaming in for the event. They came in large numbers to pay their last respects to Alhaja Ibrahim. Anchored by Alhaji Razak Aremu Gawat, the fidau started with prayer by one of the clerics. This was followed by the reading of the Quran and the introduction of dignitaries. To read the Quran were Muslim scholars with each reading a chapter in succession until the whole book was completed. Some of the scholars were the Chief Missioner, Ansaru-Ud-Deen Society of Nigeria, Sheikh Abdul Rahman Ahmad; Mudeer, Morcaz Arabic and Islamic Centre, Sheikh Habibullahi Adam and the Baba Adini of Lagos, Sheikh Abdul Hafeez Abou. After the Quran reading followed an intensive prayer session. The Imams in attendance prayed individually and collectively for the deceased. Sheikh Ahmad delivered the sermon. He reminded the gathering that death is inevitable. The revered cleric urged them to be more conscious of God and prayerful. He described the huge turnout as a compen-

sation for the good deeds of the deceased. He cautioned them to eschew excessive and flamboyant life style in order to secure a better place in Al-Jannah (paradise) after death. Sheikh Adam urged all Muslims to be God-fearing, stating that if paradise is the aim of everyone, good deeds must be their watch word. Sheikh Abou in his own remark urged Muslims to be up and doing in good deeds. “We should all be up and doing; death is inevitable. We should remember Allah always in our daily activities,” he said. He described the deceased as a mother of all and loving. “As a matter of fact, the demise of the woman is well-celebrated and this showed the status of the Chief Imam of Lagos,” he said. Sheikh Ibrahim thanked all present for their prayers. He prayed that they live long to reap the fruit of their labour. He described the demise of his wife as the will of God and prayed that her soul should rest in peace. “She was a loving and caring wife. She was also a peace maker and a jewel. She will be missed dearly. That is why she was given the title of Iya Sunna of Mulikudeen Mosque, he said. Dr Lukman Adewale read the deceased’s biography, describing her as “a jewel and mother of all.”

•Governor Fashola (left) and Commissioner for Home Affairs abd Culture Hon Oyinlomo Danmole

•Former Commissioner for Home Affairs and Culture Alhaji Babatunde Balogun (left) and Prince Wasiu Eshinlokun

•Cross-section of Lagos white Cap Chiefs

•Sheikh Tijani Gbajabiamila

•Sheikh Ibrahim (left) and representative of the Sultan of Sokoto Ambassador Hamzat Ahmadu

•Sheikh Ahmad

•Skeikh Habeebullahi and Sheikh Robiu Adebayo

PHOTOS: SOLOMON ADEOLA

THE NATION FRIDAY, JANUARY 20, 2012

SOCIETY Pa Femi Olugbode, a retired soldier and a veteran journalist, gave out his daughter, Bolanle, in marriage to Lawrence Oluwafemi, an engineer, at AMPAK Hall, Agidingbi, Ikeja, Lagos, in December, last year. TAIWO ABIODUN was there.

•Bride’s parents Mr and Mrs Olugbode

•The couple Oluwafemi and Bolanle

Bone of his bone T

HE clinking of wine glasses, sharing of toasts and shouts of joy were clear indications of the joyous mood at the AMPAK Hall, Agidingbi, Ikeja, Lagos, venue of the wedding reception for Bolanle and Lawrence. Their families were not left out of the happy mood; they beamed with smiles as they witnessed the joining of their son and daughter in holy wedlock. For them, it was a day the Lord had made and they were glad about it. The traditional introduction known in Yoruba as momi moo was held in the morning. The couple, Lawrence and Bolanle were dressed in Yoruba native attires; and items such as tubers of yam, palm oil, palm wine, kola nuts, bitter kola, bags of salt others were brought by the groom’s family to request for the bride’s hand in marriage. Friends of the groom were also on hand to observe the ‘rituals’ that often accompany traditional weddings in Yoruba land. They prostrated for the family of the bride to indicate their friend’s interest in Bolanle. Three ladies of various shapes and statures later stepped forward for the groom to pick from, but his family insisted that none of them was their son’s choice until Bolanle finally came out. Bolanle’s appearance threw the hall into a frenzy; everyone was happy to see her. The two families later prayed for her as she was made to taste some of the engagement items brought by the groom’s family. Bolanle was later tutored on how she

should behave in her new home. When she was asked to pick the most cherished item from the pack brought by the groom’s family, she picked the Holy Bible. This again ignited a thunderous applause from the guests. Afterwards, everyone went with the couple to Ikoyi Registry to sign the dotted lines, and returned to AMPAK Hall for the reception. The couple sparkled in their well-tailored wedding dresses. The groom was exceptionally handsome in a designer’s suit. At his waist were white and yellow bands that looked attractive. His wife also looked radiant in her flowing white gown. The chairman on the occasion Mr Ezekiel Akinyemi, urged the couple to trust eact other; quoting from the Bible. Speaking on what attracted Bolanle to him, Lawrence said: ‘’It was her ‘stubbornness.” It took me two months in convincing her of my seriousness. I was calling her on phone and begging her, yet it took her about two months before she finally accepted my proposal.’’ According to him, he met her at a social function and got interested in her. “I am an engineer and I have never seen anybody that stressed me like she did. We later courted for one and a half years before we got married. Today, she is mine,’’ he said. Bolanle described her husband as a devoted man who is trustworthy and humble. She said: “I respect him; he is my best friend and lover. I cherish him and he is the bone of my bone.

WEDDING

•From left: Chairman of the occasion Mr Akinyemi and groom’s parents Mr and Mrs Lawrence

•Chief Solomon Obazee (left) and Dr Yesufu Iyashere

I give God the honour and glory for having him as my husband. I am a graduate of English Language and my English stops at the door of our house not in the house.” she said. The couple’ parents could not hide their feelings as they danced their hearts out, singing hymns and choruses. Pa Olugbode said: ‘’This is the day I had been praying for. I am happy that my daughter is

PHOTOS: TAIWO ABIODUN

married. She is obedient, humble and respectful. I love the husband too for his humility and love. I wish them the best in their marital life.’’ Madam Janet Oluwafemi, mother of the bride, smiled all through as she thanked those present. The wedding cake was later cut and Bolanle served her husband, indicating her first duty as a wife.

UNION OF LOVEBIRDS

•Eduvie Evelyn Ojaide of FirstBank Plc and her love Martin Olajide Fashugba after their wedding at the Catholic Church of Assumption Falomo, Ikoyi, Lagos

•From left: Groom’s mother Mrs Jumoke Adelaja; bride’s father Mrs Abraham Ajayi; the couple Oladimeji and Adebimpe; groom’s father Mr Olufemi Adelaja and bride’s mother Mrs Olusola Ajayi at their union in Lagos

THE NATION FRIDAY, JANUARY 20, 2012

SOCIETY

•Elder Bayo Adesina (left) and Oba Agbabiaka

•Aare Ayanlakin (left) and Alhaji Wasiu Saka

A gig for the Islanders It was a convivial evening at the New Year party of Island Club, Onikan, Lagos. The event, which held on December 31, at the club house in Onikan, was witnessed by KUNLE AKINRINADE

ANACHE, beauty and style radiated the venue of the ceremony. It was the New Year party of the prestigious Island Club and members, decked in white flowing Agbada, were in attendance to seize the opportunity to cross over into 2012 on a merriment note. Although they did not ask for an encore, they got one on the occasion. High profile personalities, associates, friends and past officials of the club attended what has become a yearly ‘ritual’ of the club. They exchanged banters and hugged one another. The unique event witnessed a large turnout of guests comprising those that matter in the society. Edifying and soul-lifting lyrics of Ebenezer Obey-Fabiyi thrilled guests while choice food and drinks were not in short supply.

In his address, the Chairman of the Club, Mr Gbolahan Awe, thanked God for the club’s stability and achievements last year. He urged members to sustain their loyalty and participation in the club’s activities in the New Year. “I want to thank Almighty God for a successful outing in 2011 and for the numerous achievements of our great club in the outgone year. I, therefore, want to admonish distinguished members to sustain the tempo of their loyalty and participation for us to consolidate on the success recorded this year. “And to our new members, I want to say that we have a binding constitution in our great club and nobody is allowed to operate outside of the constitution,” he said. Speaking on the criteria for absorption of new members, the Social Secretary of the

•Mr Oke and wife Modupe

club, Mr Hakeem Alobo-Bakare said: “For anyone to become a member of the club, they must be men of impeccable character, integrity and very important dignitaries with high moral standards.” He added: “This year’s ceremony is unique in that, it is the first time that it is being held in day time. Before now, it is our tradition to have our New Year party in the night till dawn, but we feel there is need to have it in the day so that our members who are

Christians can attend the New Year’s Eve service in their churches.” The climax of the event was when members took to the floor dancing to the music of Obey with their guests. Those who graced the occasion included the Osolo of Isolo, Oba Kabiru Agbabiaka; Chairman, Ifako/Ijaiye Local Government Area, Mr Toba Oke and Royal Ambassador to Alaafin of Oyo, Chief Ayandotun Ayanlakin.

FUNERAL SERVICE FOR MADAM JULIANAH OLUWAWEMIMO OLAMITI AT ST. ANDREWS CHURCH, ALADE, IDANRE, ONDO STATE

•Ondo State Governor Olusegun Mimiko; Dr Ife Akinmoladun and Chief Folu Olamiti

Dr Ife Akinmoladun (son- in-law), Mrs Grace Aina (daughter of the decease)and Dr Tinuke Akinmoladun.

•Bishop Humphrey Olumakaiye

•Grand and great grand children at the altar during thanksgiving

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THE NATION FRIDAY, JANUARY 20, 2012

SOCIETY The compound of the Balogun Adinni of Ikorodu, Alhaji Aliu Dada Animashaun, a stalwart of Island Club of Lagos could not contain the guests who attended the wedding of his daughter, Ganiat Omobolanle and her beau, Lawal Olufowobi, a Finlandbased graduate of Information Technology (IT). TAJUDEEN ADEBANJO was at Lekki Phase 1, Lagos, venue of the ceremony.

Love is blind, cleric tells bride

HE families opted for a low key ceremony. Parents of the couple invited a few of their family members and friends to the event. But to their surprise, guests descended on the venue of ceremony •The couple Lawal and Ganiat at Olanrewaju Ninalowo Crescent, Lekki Phase 1, Lagos. And they were no ordinary people. When it dawned on the families that the expansive compound of the bride’s father, Alhaji Aliu Dada Animashaun, the Balogun Adinni of Ikorodu, could not contain the guests, some people, especially, from the groom’s family, took their seats outside. It was the solemnisation of the union of Lawal Oluwole Olufowobi, a Finland-based Information Technology (IT) graduate and his lovebird, former Miss Ganiat Omobolanle Animashaun, a Fishery and Marine student of the Crescent University, Abeokuta, Ogun State. The guests looked stunning in their African attires, which complemented the lemon green and white colours picked for the event. The couple’s parents were equally stunning in their attires. •Alhaji Animashaun (left) and Alhaji Olufowobi The Olufowobis were decked in Guinea brocade and voile lace with matching cap and headgear. While the Animashauns adorned Arabian outfit–Al-Kimbar and Hijab. The couple shone in white lace and royal blue cap and Ibori. The event began with an engagement. Afterwards, the wedding took off with prayers and praise songs to Allah for making the day a reality. It also featured recitations from the Qur’an in Arabic and English by Abdullateef Bamigbade and Qazeem Akogun, lecture, advice, presentation of gifts to the couple and prayers. There were branded and unbranded gifts for the guests to take home aside sumptuous delicacies and choice drinks. The officiating cleric, Ustadh Munirudeen Salaudeen, popularly called Ariyady, congratulated the •CEO Pelade Group of Schools Alhaja Pelade Oluwo (left) and groom’s couple and their parents for toeing grand mum Alhaja Hafsah Otitoloju the path of honour. als. Ariyady, the Deputy Imam, Lekki “You do not become a virus in the Muslim Community said children society because of civilisation,” he born out of wedlock are more in the said. society today. Marriage, Ariyady said, is a life The consequences of having such contract designed to correct the ills children, he said, are corruption, in the society. unanswered prayers by Allah and He urged the Lawals to exercise insecurity in the land. more patience in the new relationThe cleric lamented the act of findship. The cleric equally enjoined the ing partners through facebook and bride to respect her husband. other social networks. “Remember,Prophet Muhammad “Our forefathers lived in peace said the best among women is the with little or zero rate of divorce. one that always makes her husband That cannot be said of present day happy. He is your Managing Direcmarriage. Divorce often occur betor/Chief Executive Officer and the fore solemnisation; single parentsweetest place to be is your hood, which is a shameful thing in husband’s house,” he said. the past, has now become the norm. According to him, a blind wife and Indeed, truth are the words of our a deaf husband make a peaceful •Alhaja Sikirat Odeyemi fathers that a society that prides ithome. self with ‘bastards’ can never witAn elated groom’s mother, Alhaja other. ness peace,” he said. Alhaja Olufowobi, the Zulfah Bola Olufowobi, the Chief ExHe said indecent dressing is not Arigbabuwo Adinni of Imodi-Ijebu, ecutive officer, Bolswot Ventures, an act of civilisation; rather it is an urged the couple to always love each Ogun State, described her daughteract of indiscipline and lack of morin-law as “humble, respectful and

•Chairman Island Akeem Awe

Club

Alhaji

•Alhaja Animashaun (left) and Alhaja Olufowobi

•Ustadh Salaudeen (left) and Alhaji Wahab Ashipa

•Wife of Elegbeda of Egbedaland Olori Dele Balogun (left) and Managing Director Shallyfun Textiles Alhaja Shalewa Salawu

beautiful.” The bride’s mum, Alhaja Hamdalah Animashaun urged her daughter not to be rude to her husband. “You do not have an option than to

concur with him once he is on the path of Allah,” he said. Alhaja Animashaun also enjoined her daughter to be a source of happiness to her husband.

THE NATION FRIDAY, JANUARY 20, 2012

COMMENTARY

HILE man’s desires and aspirations stir; he cannot choose but err; yet, in his erring journey through the night; instinctively he travels towards the light. Ordinarily, the article in this column today should have been entitled ‘Letter to Nigeria’s Future Generations’. But, having written several letters to Nigeria’s various sections and institutions, including Parents, Legislators, Mr. President, NSCIA, Imams and others it becomes necessary to change the style if only to avoid labelling this column a letter page. Sermon is like a recurrent decimal. The more you preach, the more you get the urge to preach more. And that is because, there seems to be a permanent gap to be filled between the preacher and the audience. In the introduction to his autobiography entitled ‘MY ODYSSEY’ and published in 1970, Nigeria’s first President, Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe opined as follows: ‘’Man comes into the world and while he lives, he embarks upon a series of activities absorbing experience which enables him to formulate a philosophy of life and to chart his courses of action. But then he dies. Nevertheless, his biography remains as a guide to those of the living who may need guidance either as a warning on the vanity of human wishes or as an encouragement or both’’. Man’s life is a pilgrimage from the unknown to the unknown. No one knows whence he emanated or whither he is bound. If by sheer fortuity a wise man emerges as a leader in his peregrinations on earth, he should thank God and remember that fortuity is not natural. Through such fortuity, he should endeavour to learn by association with different peoples and by confrontation with certain realities of life and therefore attune himself to the popular hymns of the moment. The truth is that no one is naturally qualified to be a signpost to all sections of humanity. The ladder that lifts man to a height is capable of bringing him back to the canvas. In an admonishing letter addressed to the late President Yar’Ádua by yours sincerely and published in this column shortly after his assumption of office in 2007, a reference was made to one Umar Bn Abdul Aziz who became a famous Caliph of the vast Islamic empire in the golden days of Umayyad Dynasty. His ingenuous style of governance especially his economic management was so unique that it became the heritage of the Western world which still thrives in it today albeit haphazardly. In the Caliphate at that time, the tradition, according to Islamic injunction was for the State to dispense Zakah to the poor among the citizenry from the much money made through the collection of Zakah. But when it was time to do that, it turned out that nobody, in the State was as poor as being a recipient of Zakah. Thus, the huge amount earmarked for Zakah that year had to be returned to the State treasury for the ‘raining days’. By analogy, it becomes clear here that a State without poor is a State without beggars. Yet, Umar Bn Abdul Aziz who became so famous in history for such genius in economic administration ruled for only three years from 717 to 720 CE and even died at the age of 37. The secret of his success was in his sincere ability to identify two major areas of economic management in governance. One was to regulate the cost of governance by harmonising the salaries and allowances of political appointees with those of the civil servants and the judiciary. This was to ensure that the populace was not short-changed in the name of governance. And there was an independent body responsible for the determination and regulation of public workers ’remunerations. According to Caliph Umar Bn Abdul Aziz, “fixing your own salaries and allowances without the consent of the populace just because you are in government is nothing but public theft by satanic audacity’’. He held that both the government and the resources of the state belong to the people and nothing was to be done to the lives of the people through any official policies without seeking their consents. Umar’s second secret of ingenuous governance was his official recognition of the middle class as the greatest employer of labour. He knew that if only two million professionals and artisans could employ three staff each and the necessary facilities were provided by the government, the burden of gross unemployment would have been off the neck of the government

FEMI ABBAS ON Femabbas@yahoo.com 08051101861

When tomorrow comes

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The recent fuel price increase for just one week has exposed their stupidity and shown them a signal that today’s world is no longer for slavery. That one week experience should serve as a good lesson for the wise. But will it? •Mrs Okonjo-Iweala

because additional six million people would have been employed and that would have relieved the country of unnecessary burden of insecurity. What Umar did therefore was to use the resources of the State to encourage self-employment through professionalism and artisanship. He knew very well that whatever was officially spent on such a vital venture would return to the State treasury in many folds through taxation. Today, this ingenuous economic management adopted by the West would have continued to thrive gloriously if the West had encapsulated it in corruption. In the first congratulatory and admonishing letter written to President Goodluck Ebele Jonatahn by this columnist and published in this column when he became substantive President, an allusion was made to the above references for him to learn a lesson from. But no one can forcefully enable a blind man to see the light of the sun. Like Saudi Arabia, Nigeria is an OPEC country. But unlike the citizens of that Middle East country, Nigerians are today a wretched people wallowing helplessly in abject penury despite the stupendous riches with which this country is endowed. Today, Saudi Arabia has taken her wealth beyond oil and other mineral resources. The two gigantic industrial cities of Yambu’ and Jubail alone which she established in the early 1980s are enough to see her through the future in the absence of oil. And what is more, she does not depend on oil for survival any more despite her position as number one exporter of oil in OPEC. And she has by far gone beyond that great industrialisation which the West once described as the eighth wonder of the world. Besides, there is no aspect of human development eluding Saudi Arabia today, including manufacturing, agriculture, shipping, aviation and tourism. And all of these are publicly owned. No dubious privatisation, no ‘BLIND TRUST’ and no unidentified cabal. Since 1976 when yours sincerely first visited that country for Hajj and through the four years I spent there as a student there has been no single day that the citizens had problem with electricity or water even in their sky-scraping buildings. And, as a desert country, Saudi Arabia stands out as one of the world’s biggest producers of foods for internal consumption and for export. In contrast, Nigeria which deceptively keeps promising her citizens of becoming one the 20 greatest economic nations in the world in year 2020 is till floating on the ocean of uncertainty even as confusion and hopelessness remain the order of the day. No electricity despite the trillions of

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naira claimed to have been spent on it. No rail transportation system as the government is still planning to refurbish the one track of the 19th century antiquated railway which is fit only for cattle and herds. No employments for over 80 per cent of the youthful men and women that dominate the Nigerian populace in their millions. No public water provided by government despite the ubiquity of rivers and streams in the land. No middle class to complement government efforts in boosting national economy and thus, no security. Yet, one keeps hearing the monotonous voices of empty promise from the official quarters daily even as those voices continue to invite foreign investor to this unpredictable country where railway is ‘killed’ to enable private haulage to flourish; where the national airline is ‘killed’ to allow for private airlines, where national electric corporation is ‘killed’ to boost the business of power generators; where the National Communication outfit like NITEL is ‘killed’ for private ones to spring; where national Universities are killed that private ones can emerge and where stolen public funds is spent to import weapons to suppress political opponents and rig elections. When the Arab revolutions began early last year, several warnings and admonitions were sounded in newspaper columns including ‘THE MESSAGE’ as well as on radio and television programmes. The alert that the likes of Arab revolutions might reach Nigeria was promptly dismissed with the wave of the hands by the country’s ‘lotus eaters’ who stupidly believe that with them in positions of authority the populace would remain in servitude forever. The recent fuel price increase for just one week has exposed their stupidity and shown them a signal that today’s world is no longer for slavery. That one week experience should serve as a good lesson for the wise. But will it? Economic management is not by mere theory on how to generate income for government while sustaining penury in the land as a strategy for ruling the people by whim perpetually. The defunct Soviet Union toyed with all sorts of economic theories jumping from socialism to communism only to finally collapse into irredeemable pieces after 74 years of catastrophic experiments. Today, the major bane of Nigerian economy is not just the elimination of the Middle Class but also the extremely high cost of running the government at the expense of the masses. Even the West which purportedly

serves as Nigeria’s economic model does not show one per cent of our government’s prodigality. For instance, we know that American President earns $400,000 as salary per annum. That amounts to N60 million at the rate of N150 to one American Dollar. How much is the salary of Nigerian President? We also know that the United States has only about ten federal Ministers. What is Nigeria doing with about 49 Ministers? In the American President’s official convoy, there are usually about five cars at most and three in that of the Prime Minister of Britain. What is Nigerian President doing with about 27 cars in his convoy? And by the way, which section of our constitution authorises the office of the ‘FIRST LAYDY’ that has virtually become the second office in the country today? If an unconstitutional public office is not a bastion of corruption what else is corruption in Nigeria? How much are the allowances of the President, the Vice President, the Senate President, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, the Legislators, the Ministers, the myriad of special, senior and junior advisers to the President? How much of tax payers’ money is spent weekly or monthly to feed each of these if the President and his Deputy alone can spend about N1 billion to eat cassava bread and Ofada rice in one year? One question that kept resurfacing while the protests were on last week was about the masquerade called cabal. The President and his so-called economic team blamed the massive corruption in the oil sector on that cabal but had no courage to unmask it. Rather, it was the already terribly impoverished masses that must pay the cost of the cabal’s corruption. If a government can identify a cabal as an economic pest but cannot unmask it then, who is the cabal? And now, with the reduction of the oil price and the already skyrocketing prices of consumable commodities that have further diminished the standard of living of an average Nigerian who loses, who gains? To further take us through the track of deception with which we are well familiar, the Executive arm of government claimed to have accepted to reduce their salaries by 25 per cent as a way of showing a good example of leadership in deliberately created austere times. This was long after the same Executives had forcefully reduced the allowances of the Legislators by about 40 per cent while refusing to reduce theirs even by one per cent. If for the benefit of doubt, we concede any sincerity of reducing such salaries as claimed are we given the benefit of the monetary value of that reduction? One person that deserved pity in the melee of the so-called subsidy removal palaver was Dr. Ngozi Okonjo Iweala, the Minister of Finance who kept hammering the issue of trust. Perhaps she would not have raised such issue if she had asked herself these relevant questions: Why did the Executive arm of government (including herself) wait until the street protests began before rushing to reduce salaries? Why did it not unveil the corrupt cabal that it claimed to know before removing the non-existing subsidy? Why must the wretched ordinary Nigerians pay for the ineptitude of the Federal Government? Why was that removal action taken by the government before the commencement of the 2012 budget implementation when such removal was meant to be in the 2012 and not 2011 budget? Are Nigerians not short changed by that illegal action? And if a government is regularly known for telling blatant lies and for short-changing the citizens, does such a government deserve any public trust? Nigerians have become wise enough not to continue to play fools in the hands of an inept, insincere government. This is a reality which the likes of Dr. Okonjo Iweala should face. The magic of using sentiment to play Nigerians against Nigerians with a view to subduing them has become impotent. Poverty knows no religion or ethnicity. It knows no gender or age. Thus, those who rely on those factors to keep Nigerians divided for their own selfish benefit should start a rethink. Revolution is quite possible here as it was possible in the Arab world. The only means of preventing it is good governance. These facts will form some chapters of history for the future generations to read that they may not find themselves in a similar quagmire as ours ‘When tomorrow comes’.

THE NATION

FRIDAY, JANUARY 20, 2012

CRIME WATCH

Lagos market leader alleges threat to life T

HE President of Aguiyi Ironsi Market Traders’ Association, Ladipo, Mushin, Lagos, Jonathan Okoli has raised the alarm over what he called continued attempts on his life by those bent on supplanting the market’s elected leadership with some handpicked individuals. He alleged that members of a dissident group in the market, who have exploited their closeness to a female senior police officer, were behind past attempts to eliminate him. He accused the group of being behind the lingering crisis in the market. Okoli urged members of the association to sustain their resolve to resist the attempt to impose some individuals, merely interested in making money from the market, as their leaders. He urged officials of the state’s Ministry of Environment, Environmental Taskforce, Kick against Indiscipline (KAI), the police and Mushin Local Government Area to desist from allowing themselves to be used as agents of destabilisation in the market. Okoli noted that in recent past, members of a dissident group in the market have exploited the support of the female senior police officer (names withheld), some officials of

By Eric Ikhilae

Mushin Local Government and the state’s Ministry of Environment to make life unbearable for hardworking traders, whose businesses have continued to suffer. Okoli gave details of past attempts on his life by some policemen whose services were allegedly procured by members of a caretaker committee put in place by the Mushin Local Government Area. He said but for God’s protection, he would have been dead. He further said much as he is a lawabiding and peace-loving individual who seeks an early resolution of the crisis in the market, he would not succumb to intimidation and threats. He noted that despite that the fiveman caretaker committee had been

restrained by a court order, it has continued to foment trouble in the market. Okoli, who wondered why those who sued him and the elected leadership of the market were now resorting to self help and exploiting their closeness to people in positions, rather than await the outcome of the case, said he remained the President of the market until the court decides otherwise. “Around evening on June 18 last year after we had closed and were heading home, an assassination attempt was made on me at Ladipo. I was in my car and suddenly a pickup van, without any registration number pulled up in front of me. “The occupants started shooting indiscriminately at my car. Many people were hit by stray bullets.

Around evening on June 18 last year after we had closed and were heading home, an assassination attempt was made on me at Ladipo. I was in my car and suddenly a pick-up van, without any registration number pulled up in front of me. The occupants started shooting indiscriminately at my car

‘Corruption, incompetence bane of police’

HE International Society for Civil Liberties and the Rule of Law (Intersociety) has said that corruption and gross incompetence were responsible for the woeful failure of the Nigeria Police Force to tackle the country’s security challenges. A statement by the group’s chairman board of trustees Comrade Emeka Umeagbalasi urged President Goodluck Jonathan to “take steps to tackle, head on the rabid corruption in the force particularly the extortion at roadblocks.” The group called for “the abolition of indiscriminate roadblocks countrywide and their replacement with fewer strategic security checkpoints to be compiled by the IGP and approved by the Federal Executive Council.” The statement further said: “In view of the fact that the present command structure of the Nigeria Police Force is grossly lopsided geo-politically, we demand that Your Excellency should take immediate steps to remedy the

From Adimike George, Onitsha

anomaly in accordance with Section 14(3) of the Constitution of Nigeria 1999 as amended.” The statement continued: “Also, in other to refocus the Nigeria Police Force and make it responsive to the “scientific policing,” all serving Commissioners of Police, Assistant Inspectors-General, DeputyInspectors General and the IGP, who are 50 years and above should be retired with statutory benefits. “Among the remaining CPs, DCPs and ACPs, a new IGP with expertise in modern policing should be appointed in accordance with Section 215(1) (a) of the Constitution of Nigeria 1999 as amended. “As a matter of fact, Your Excellency, some incompetent service chiefs should also be replaced. To effectively combat the menaces of Boko Haram Islamic sect and other security challenges, effective intelligence gathering

and usage, and inter-security services coordination and collaborations are required. “Solutions to these security challenges do not lie on the bloated security budget of N921b or procurement of Armoured Personnel Carriers, Helicopter Gun-ships and machine guns. Any enemy-armed group that is elusive and scientific requires likewise methods to tame it otherwise any contrary security approaches will end up causing more civilian casualties. “We demand that Your Excellency should urgently call a special meeting involving all the 36 states’ governors, the leadership of the National Assembly, the Service Chiefs and key members of Your Excellency’s Federal Cabinet so as to find an effective solution to the unprovoked and unwarranted killing of Nigerians particularly the Igbo Christians, just as Your Excellency did few days ago, which resulted in ending the week-long national strike and protests over ‘fuel subsidy removal.

Some later died. I later learnt they were policemen who were sent by these same people to kill me. Till today, nothing has been done despite that I reported the case to the police. No arrest was made, and no investigation was conducted either. “On November 14 last year, men of the Federal Special Anti-Robbery Squared (FSARS), Adeniji Adele, stormed the Mirror Suites on Ilorin Street, Ire-Akari Isolo Lagos where I lodged and shot severally at my legs. Their intention was to incapacitate me. They later took me to their station and locked me with other market leaders in cells inhabited by hardened criminals. “This was in spite of an order by Justice Bola Okikiolu-Ighile of the Lagos High Court, restraining them from arresting, harassing or intimidating us in anyway. During our detention, our lawyer went to the court again; and on November 18 the same Judge ordered the police to produce us in court. “But, instead of obeying the order, they horridly took us (46 of us) before a Magistrate’s Court in Igbosere where we were arraigned on a threecount charge of unlawful possession of firearms, assault and possession of dangerous weapons. “Despite their insistence that the court should remand us, the Magistrate was convinced that they had nothing against us and granted us bail. The case is coming up next month. The one they filed, challenging my leadership, which is before Justice Ishola of the Lagos High Court, is coming up on January 27. “On December 16 last year, Justice Ishola made an order, restraining members of the so-called caretaker committee, including Lawrence Eze, Anthony Onyiliagha, Mr. Onitolo and the two representatives of Mushin Local Government Area from interfering with our offices and duties pending the determination of the case” Okoli said. He stated that despite the court order, the five members of the said committee have continued to intimidate and compel members of market’s association to pay dues to them. Okoli accused them of taking laws into their own hands, with the alleged collusion of some state officials who have no major investment, but merely interested in the money being realised in the market. In a recent petition to the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Okoli detailed his ordeal, particularly the attempts on his life and the role allegedly being played by the female police officer, whose son is said to be among those behind the unending crisis in the market.

•Ringim He urged the IGP to intervene and help restore peace in the market. He said but for deft move by his lawyers in December last year, the market would have been closed by some state officials whose service had been procured by his opponents. Okoli said his lawyer, Bamidele Aturu, on hearing of clandestine moves to shut the market, petitioned the Commissioner for Environment, the Inspector-General of Police the authorities at the Armed Forces Resettlement Centre, Oshodi, among others, bringing the facts of the case before them. “When they saw all the court orders that were exhibited, and on realising that these people just wanted to use them to close our market, they backed out. That was how we frustrated their plot to shut our market just because we insisted that truth must prevail and that they abide by the truth. Speaking recently on the crisis, a member of the committee, Chimezie Umeohia, described Okoli as a former president of the market association, even as he accused him of embezzling the association’s funds and plotting to perpetuate himself in office. He denied that the members of the opposition were exploiting their closeness to senior government officials and state agencies to foment trouble in the market. He urged Okoli to vacate office and let peace reign in the market. “The erstwhile president of the market association had refused to relinquish power in the market association and when some traders stood up against him, he resorted to intimidating traders in the market with frequent thugs and policemen. “But while this was on, we went through his record and we discovered that over N5m have been embezzled by his administration,” he said.

Robbery suspect escapes from police custody

•Motorcyclists queue for fuel at the NNPC filling station in Abeokuta in the week

ROBBERY suspect who robbed and defrauded a Southwest governor and was arrested and detained at the Ikotun Police Station three weeks ago has escaped. The middle-aged man, who has been involved in several robbery cases escaped from the cell leaving behind the handcuff and leg chain. The Divisional Police Officer in charge of Ikotun, Austine Akika, a Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP) confirmed the escape but declined to further comment on it. He rather directed our reporter to the X- squad of Lagos State Police Command Ikeja for more information. A source close to the police said that was not the first case of escape in the division. The source said: “A similar case of a suspected fraudster who stole N13m was arrested and detained and he is still at large.”

By Adejo David

The men on duty at both incidents are facing trial at the Lagos State Police Command Headquarters Ikeja. Our source accused the DPO of Ikotun police formation of not doing enough towards fishing out these suspected criminals. Meanwhile, the officers on duty at the time of the robbery case have been detained at Lagos State Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS). The team leader, according to a source, is Inspector Monica Isaku (a female police officer) while the leader of the team investigating the case was simply identified as Inspector Matthew and six others who are currently facing trial. The D.P.O, Akika who is currently undergoing an Assistant Commissioner of Police training is one of the most senior DPOs in Lagos State Police Command.

THE NATION

FRIDAY, JANUARY 20, 2012

Nigerians urged to love one another

HE Catholic Archbishop of Onitsha Ecclesiastical Province, Most Rev. Valerian Maduka Okeke has urged Nigerians to love one another and continue the works of charity even in the midst of crisis. Archbishop Okeke made the call recently while on a pastoral visit to Holy Trinity Parish, Awada Onitsha. The visit also marked the official dedication of the rectory and installation of the Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Stephen Ezenwagu. It was a day of thanksgiving to God and prayers for Nigeria, especially for those who support missionary works with their God-given wealth. In his homily during the Eucharistic celebration in which a total of 1,847 candidates received the Sacrament of Confirmation, the Archbishop thanked the Holy Trinity Awada family for their support as, according to him, the church can only function if the congregation are following and are supportive. He admonished Nigerians to desist from living dubious lives, even as he described dubious people as those who make money but spend the money on frivolities. ”It is not great money that builds the church; it is the faith of the congregation that brings about rapid development. Our Pontiff, Pope Benedict the XIV has declared the period between November 2011 and November 2012 as a year of faith and we shall make maximum impact within the period. “There is this story about the fault finder, the man who knows all, speaks all languages but yet lacks one great language -the language of love. “It is love that has a universal language. Whenever we do the work

From Emeka Attah

of love, the blind sees it, the dumb speaks it and even the cripple appreciates it. Love attracts love and it is responded by love. The language of love is not spoken through the alphabets, numbers or algebra but is spoken though action,’’ the Archbishop said. The Archbishop also showered praises on the Parish Priest of Holy Trinity, Rev. Fr. Stephen Ezenwagu whom he described as a hard working Priest and addressed him as the “son of a lion” coined from the Priest’s surname. The Anambra State Goveror, Mr. Peter Obi in his remarks expressed gratitude to the parishioners in Awada and marveled at the developmental pace of the parish within a short time. Represented by his Special Assistant on Religious Affairs, BrigadierGeneral Anthony Okafor (rtd), the governor promised to give his support to the parish in their future projects and also regretted that most roads in Awada area are in a terrible state. His promise that the roads would be rehabilitated in the 2012 fiscal year generated applause from the congregation. In a chat with Newsextra, the Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Ezenwagu described the pastoral visit by the Archbishop as an elevation and source of blessing to the parish. Reflecting on the achievements recorded in the new parish within 18 months he said: “I feel highly honoured that the Chief Shepherd visited our parish for the first time. This signifies an official announcement that our parish is now one of the parishes in the Archdiocese and that by His grace; I’m also the representative of the archbishop in the

It is not great money that builds the church; it is the faith of the congregation that brings about rapid development… It is love that has a universal language. Whenever we do the work of love, the blind sees it, the dumb speaks it and even the cripple appreciates it. Love attracts love and it is responded by love. The language of love is not spoken through the alphabets, numbers or algebra but is spoken though action

•The new Parish Rectory inaugurated by the Archbishop

•Archbishop Okeke blessing Rev. Fr. Stephen Ezenwagu after his installation as Parish Priest

parish as the chief servant of the parish. Recounting the daunting challenges he experienced when he was posted to Awada as the pioneer Parish Priest, he attributed the success stories of the parish to God and the support of the congregation. “The secret of our success is God Himself because it is in Him we live and have our being and cut off from Him we can do nothing. We thank him not only because we have achieved in the area of building mansions but that today, we are also celebrating seven Masses on Sundays and three on weekdays. We have also won souls for Christ. We’ve celebrated about 250 marriages, 2, 750 baptisms, 2, 150 have also received First Holy Communion while several soul winning programmes are organised weekly in the parish.” While the Parish Priest is reveling in the joy of the pastoral visit, perhaps, the happiest person in the church that day was Chief Fidelis Umeh, the chairman of the pastoral visit committee. Full of excitement, Umeh said he was taken unawareness on the task but he braced up and eventually

succeeded. “The Parish Priest just called me and said he was inspired to ask me to chair the committee. I entertained fears at the beginning but on a second thought, I reasoned that this is a call to duty that I have to serve my God the way it pleases Him. So, for the past two months, we worked tirelessly to ensure a successful outing and today it has become a reality,” he said. He thanked all who contributed to the success of the pastoral task, even as he said that the future holds better promises and prospects for the parish and the parishioners. In his vote of thanks, the ViceChairman Parish Pastoral Council, Chief Francis Umeh thanked the archbishop for his fatherly disposi-

tion to the congregation and prophesied that in the next two years, the parish will sire other parishes as the church keeps expanding. He boasted that Holy Trinity Parish will be the first among its contemporaries. Chairman, Works Committee, Bonaventure Chinedu Muoka thanked God who, according to him, made it happen at His own time. He also attributed the success of his committee to God and the dedication and transparency of the Parish Priest. Various dance groups, performances by members of Altar Knights and presentation of gifts by wards and societies in the church added colour to the ceremony.

Quarters for foreign poly students •Continued from page 27

monitor exam conduct”. Onu also recalled that a philanthropist, Sir Emeka Offor had donated N10m to the institution and that is what the polytechnic had deployed to renovate the old Dr Alex Ekwueme library while a new virtual library worth N160millon is under construction at the extension site of the institution. He told them that another philanthropist, Sir J.J. Ezeokafor had donated motorbikes for security monitoring and Sir Jonah Eze donated a secondary school in the tune of N20million to the polytechnic. “No fewer than 11 structures are at various levels of completion in the Institution. Beautification, landscaping, renovations are still on. These are projects done with internally generated revenue. We also have records of so many pledges. In terms of discipline we have achieved a lot. Oko is also cult free. “Despite all these developments, we still have challenges and that is why we are seeking collaboration from everybody to further develop this institution,” the Rector submitted.

Speaking earlier, the President, USA branch of the association, Baron Egenamba acknowledged the massive developmental strides currently going on in the polytechnic and commended the initiative of Rector. According to him, ”We must commend you. We are a young organization in the United States. It took us time to look for likeminded people to come together. We are presently into legal documentations in the States, this will enable us appeal for assistance and donations that will make it possible for us to start a project in the Institution. “We are also looking forward to our proposed official inauguration in New York, once we get cleared with documentations. We shall invite the Management for the inauguration”, he said. He pledged that the branch association would mobilize support for the development of the institution adding “I have lots of regard for this Institution and anything I can do to contribute to the progress of it, I will do it”. Also speaking, the Secretary of the association, Tony Obi said that their commitment was voluntary and the real thing to do is to be part of the polytechnic community by giving back to the place what they have impacted in the team.

FRIDAY, JANUARY 20, 2012

Our public conduct must at all time be a strong restatement of our connection with our people and our understanding of the realities they have to live with. This public service is a business whose core value is to deliver social service

•Hon. Bamgbola (sixth right) and the new appointees

HAIRMAN, Itire-Ikate Local Council Development Area Hon Hakeem Bamgbola has urged the newly appointed Supervisors, Special Advisers and Secretary to the local government to be exemplary in their duties, guided by their integrity. The council chief spoke during the swearing-in ceremony of the new officers. Hon Bamgbola also inaugurated a revenue committee. He challenged them to exceed the achievements of the class of 20082011 even if the circumstances may be different. Bamgbola who spoke at the council secretariat after the Oaths of Office and Allegiance were administered on the nominees, said the team must resist the temptation to dwell on any successes of the last term. “We must see whatever we achieved as challenges to us to do better. That is the only way we can reward and appreciate the sacri-

Council chair urges appointees on integrity By Tajudeen Adebanjo

fice and service,” he said. “The expectation of our people is very high. It is very understandably so. They have seen their lives improve year after year from 1999 to 2011 under our great leader Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his worthy successor, Mr Babatunde Raji Fashola (SAN), the best man for the job. They will not settle for anything less. You and I are inheritors of a legacy of hard work dating back over 12 years. The early pioneers were giants who left big shoes that we must fill. In the last few years, the image of this council has blossomed, her prosperity has improved, hope has been restored, myths have been exploded and possibilities now seem limitless,” he noted. The council boss appealed to the

new appointees to show some sense of appreciation for the difficult conditions of the helpless members of the society He enjoined them to be moderate in their actions, moderate in public appearances and shun all sense of ostentation and waste that can be suggestive of insensibility on their part. “Our public conduct must at all time be a strong restatement of our connection with our people and our understanding of the realities they have to live with. This public service is a business whose core value is to deliver social service. It is funded by taxes from which your salaries and allowances will be paid. It may not be a spectacular pay but the opportunity for 15 persons is a rare privilege and a lifetime opportunity in a densely population,” he said.

“We must treat the tax payers with courtesy, they are our employers, our work in treating files, responding to their letters, listening to their complaints, answering their phone calls, granting them access to us as practical as it is possible to do so, these will make their sacrifice for us at the elections worthwhile. This is a social contract; we must fulfill our side of the bargain”, Bamgbola added. He appealed for the understanding of members of the public to be discerning and reasonable with their demands on their time so that they can apply that time to do the work that will bring value to the peoples’ lives. The council boss expressed appreciation to all the legislators for their people first and business-

‘Increase oil derivation fund to 50 per cent’

•Students resuming at Government Secondary School, Garki, Abuja after the fuel subsidy strike

like approach during the last tenure. While responding on behalf of the new members of the Executive Council, the Secretary to the council (SLG), Olugbenga Oyebode pledged the unflinching loyalty of the members to the Chairman through selfless service and total dedication to the task of leading the people to prosperity. Oyebode expressed conviction that the members will assist the council chair in justifying the uncommon enthusiasm of the people of Itire-Ikate who voted massively for him in the October council elections. He thanked the Bamgbola and leaders of the Action Congress of Nigeria for considering them worthy of the appointment.

ONSEQUENT upon the increased cost of petrol, a group in the oil-producing area of Ondo State has called for the review of the 13 per cent oil derivation fund to 50 per cent. The group, Ilaje/Ese-Odo Renaissance Group (IERG) in a statement signed by its chairman, Sunday Menukuro, said the call became imperative because of untold hardship being faced by its inhabitants. According to the statement “it is crystal clear that the 13 percent currently being paid to the oil producing states as derivation fund does not commensurate with the hazards in the coastal areas. “The untold hardship as a result of the exploitation and exploration of crude oil is unprecedented though the NDDC and ministry of Niger Delta are doing their best, but the level of destruction and losses in

From Damisi Ojo, Akure

the area is unimaginable. The group noted with concern various challenges like sea incursion, oil spillage and environmental pollution that are posing a serious threat to the people in the area. “We are pleading with President Goodluck Jonathan to review the 13 percent derivation fund for the nine oil producing states especially now that oil subsidy has been completely removed,” the statement stressed. Menukuro noted that the step would assist in uplifting the area particularly in terms of infrastructural development and job creation. He stressed that an appreciable number of people in the Niger Delta are wallowing in abject poverty in spite of the natural gift in their terrain.

THE NATION FRIDAY, JANUARY 20, 2012

IN THE HIGH COURT OF LAGOS STATE OF NIGERIA PROBATE REGISTRY, IKEJA DIVISION WHEREAS the person whose names are set-out in the first Column under died intestate on the date and place stated in the said Column. AND WHEREAS the person or persons whose names and addresses and relationship (if any) to the deceased are set out in the second Column here have applied to the High Court of Lagos State for a Grant of Letter of Administration of the Real and Personal Properties of the deceased. NOTICE IS HEREBY given that Letters of Administration will be granted to such persons unless a NOTICE TO PROHIBIT THE GRANT is filed in the registry within (14) days from the date hereof. S/N

NAMES OF THE DECEASED PERSON:

S/N

1. Ononogbu Chinoyerem, late of No. 6, Mutairo Street, Itire, Surulere, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 7th day of July 2010 at General Hospital Lagos. 2. Okuselu Martins Oluseyi (Otherwise known as Martins Oluseyi Okuselu and Seyi-Martins Okuselu) late of Block 210 Flat 1, Low Cost Housing Estate Abesan , Ipaja, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 10th day of October, 2006 at Luth. 3. Bola Adekeye (Otherwise known as Mrs Bola Adekeye (Nee Akoshile and Adekeye Bola) late of 56, Abule-Nla Road, Ebute Metta, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 24th day of January, 2005 at Lagos. 4. Adedeji Justin Idowu (Otherwise known as Idowu Justin Adedeji) late of 39, Layi Oyekanmi Street, Mushin, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 29th day of January, 2011 at Lagos. 5. Okoro Confidant Ogbonna late of 20, Akinremi Street, Anifowose Ikeja, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 15th day of November, 2008 6. Akwari Chidi (Otherwise known as Mr Chidi Akwari) late of 13, Shosanya Street, Onipanu, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 12th day of December, 2010 at Gbagada General Hospital. 7. Thomas Edalere Yemi (Otherwise known as Thomas Adeyemi Adewunmi and Thomas Yemi) late of 41, Makinde Street, Surulere, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 31st day of May, 2010 at Lagos. 8. Baworin Solomon Akinyemi late of 121 Kujore Street, Ojota, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 21st day of June, 2010 at Odogbolu Hospital. 9. Idowu Adenusi (Otherwise known as Adewusi Idowu) late of No. 2, Owogbemi Close, Jibowu Estate, U.Turn Bus Stop, Abule Egba , Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 7th day of January, 2011 at Lagos State. 10. Folorunsho Yemisi (Otherwise known as Mrs Folorunsho Yemisi ) late of 23, Powerline Oko Oba Agege, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 25th day of July, 2011 at Lagos. 11. Babatunde Akanbi (Otherwise known as Sule Akanbi Babatunde and Akanbi Babatunde ) late of 12, Makanjuola Street, Iju Ishaga, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 6th day of April, 1994. 12. Mrs Grace Akuagwu Nweke (Otherwise known as Nweke Grace Akuagwu and Grace Nwaeke ) late of Block 674, Ikota Housing Estate Ajah Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 30th day of October, 2009 at Lagos. 13. Miss Agnes F. Amaefule (Otherwise known as Miss Favour Amaefula) late of 64B, Sanya Street, Aguda , Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 20th day of March, 2011. 14. Mr Uche Onyejekwe (Otherwise known as Onyejekwe Uche and Okaagold) late of 12, Fatai Oke Street, Agoro, Shomolu, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 2nd day of April, 2010 at Imo. 15. Madu Theresa late of No. 2, Market Lane, Shogunle, Oshodi, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 30th day of April, 2011 at Lagos. 16. Mr Olusanwo Adebayo late of 47, Arije Campbell Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 16th day of February, 2011 at Ogun State. 17. Mrs Soyinka Oluwafunmilola Omoyinka (Otherwise known as Soyinka Oluwafunmilola) late of KLM 47, Lagos Ibadan Express Road, Mowe Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 27th day of April, 2011 at Lagos. 18. Mrs Mary Moromoke Akinkuade (Otherwise known as Mrs Akinkuade Mary) late of 16/20 Emmanuel Nwankwo Street, Agodo Egbe Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 8th day of June, 2011 at Lagos. 19. Madam Safurat Aduke Gbadamosi late of 27, Animashaun Street, Aguda, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 15th day of April, 2008 at Lagos. 20. Mfoniso Grace Daniel Asian (Otherwise known as Asian Daniel Grace Mfoniso) late of 16, Adepeju Off Temple Bus Stop, Bariga, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 19th day of May, 2011 at Lagos. 21. Pa Adebusuyi Samuel (Otherwise known as Pa Samuel Adebusuyi and Adebusuyi Samuel) late of 11, Omololu Road, Off Randle Avenue Surulere, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 6th day of January, 1995 at Lagos. 22. Akindeinde Olatunji Olufemi late of 51, Otta Road, Agege, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 15th day of November, 2010 23. Mr Igbafen Yusuf late of Block 60, Ojo Barracks, Ojo, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 3rd day of November,2009 at NAF Hospital, Ikeja. 24. Idowu Ganiyu Olusegun (Otherwise known as Olusegun G. Idowu) late of 31, Oluwadare Street, Shomolu, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 19th day of January, 2011 at Califonia USA. 25. Emmanuel U. Konyeshi (Otherwise known as Rev. (Dr) Emmanuel Uzoewulu Konyeshi and Konyenshi Emmanuel U. ) late of 10, Unity Drive Odukoya Estate, Akowonjo, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 3rd day of April, 2007 at Crystal Hospital Akowonjo. 26. Moses Iyanobor (Otherwise known as Moses Iyanobor (PC) late of 5, Karuwi Street, Abule Egba, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 21st day of July, 2011. 27. Karim Iyanda (Otherwise known as Iyanda Karim ) late of No. 6, Giwa Street, Apapa, Ajegunle, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 10th day of June, 2005. 28. Mrs Maria Paul Akpan (Otherwise known as Akpan Maria Paul Martha) late of 18, Ayorinde Street, Olodi Apapa, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 14th day of December, 2010 at Iwo Etor Etinan. 29. Isaiah Olatunde Olagoke late of 75, Agege Bye Pass Agege, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 31st day of January, 2011 at Lagos. 30. James Paul late of 14, Akiri Street, Comfort Obo Kirikiri Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 12th day of July, 2010 at Lagos. 31. John Ojo Ogunlade late of 2, Shobayo close, Mongoro Agege, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 4th day of May, 2011 at Lagos. 32. Muolokwu Agodi Godwin late of No. 50, Shotinoye Street, Papa Ajao Mushin, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 25th day of May, 2011 at Federal Medical Centre Asaba. 33. Akinrinlola Babatunde Olasukanmi (Otherwise known as Akinrinola Babatunde) late of 18, Owolabi Street, Agodo Egbe, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 1st day of December, 2010. 34. Chief Bisiriyu Baoku late of 19, Awoyejo Street, Oloosa Mushin, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 6th day of January, 2010 at Lagos. 35. Mr Isaac Oyovwe Rabebe (Otherwise known as Oyos ) late of 1, Missionary Street, Off A.I.T. Road, Alagbado, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 18th day of September, 2006 at Lagos. 36. Joshua Oyekan late of No. 41, Almaruff Street, Ijedodo Via Ijegun Ikotun, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 7th day of November, 2007 at Staff High Rock Hospital, Lagos. 37. Alhaji Muiz Alamu Salako late of No. 10, Adebayo Ogundokun Street, Unity Estate, Idimu, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 26th day of January, 2008 at Lagos State. 38. Samuel Oduntan Kolawole (Otherwise known as Mr Kolawole Samuel) late of Plot 10, Selewu Road, Igbogbo, Ikorodu, Lagos State deceased who died intestate on the 22nd day of February, 2010 at Osogbo. 39. Mrs Angela Chinyere Eze late of No. 1, Aina Street, Ahmadiyya Agege, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 24th day of October, 2008 at Chosen Hospital Ijesha. 40. Ayodele Bello (Otherwise known as Ayodele O. Bello and Ayodele Olugbenga Bello) late of 1, Bamgbola Street, Aguda, Ogba, Ikeja, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 19th day of August, 2010 at Ikeja Medical Centre Ltd. 41. Miss Njillor Martha Relindis (Otherwise known as Njillor Martha Rehindis) late of No. 4, Akinola Adegunwa Street, Omole Phase 1, Omole Ikeja, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 4th day of September, 2009 at Lagos. 42. Mr Lawrence Izuchukwu Nwankwo (Otherwise known as Mr Nwankwo Lawrence ) late of “Q” Block, Flat 4, New Staff Quarters, Police College, Ikeja deceased who died intestate on the 27th day of May, 2011 at Cross River (Ogoja General Hospital. 43. Mr Francis Adaze Ehiamhen (Otherwise known as Mr Frnaics Ehiamhen) late of No. 86, Muwo Road, Tedi Town, Ojo, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 19th day of February, 2007 at Lagos. 44. Olutoni Macaulay (Otherwise known as Mrs Macaulay Toni) late of No. 14, Alhaji Salisu Street, Obanikoro Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 14th day of February, 2011 at Osuntuyi Hospital, Lagos. 45. Prince Michael Winceslaus Eko late of No. 30, Buraimoh Street, Olodi apapa, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 6th day of April, 2008 at Lagos. 46. Peter Okafor late of 12B, Folawiyo Bankole Street, Ikate Surulere, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 2nd day of February, 1981 at General Hospital Onitsha. 47. Mr Victor Oladipupo Fowler (Otherwise known as Victor Oladipupo Fowler) late of 14, Idera Street, Off Awoyokun Street, Onipanu, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 26th day of November, 2006 at General Hospital, Lagos. 48. Madam Comfort Adeyola (Otherwise known as Comfort Adeyola) late of 26, Adeshiyan Street, Palm Grove Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 31st day of January, 1973 at Lagos State. 49. Mr Oku Nkereuwem Ukpong (Otherwise known as Mr Ukpong Ekereuwem Oku and Nkereuwem Oku Ukpong) late of No. 40, Chris Oladunni Street, Idimu, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 8th day of December, 1999 at General Hospital Iquita, Oron. 50. Noah Adeleke Babalosha (Otherwise known as Noah Babalosha) late of No. 15, Adegbenro Street, Iwaya, Yaba, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 31st day of July, 2009 at Lagos. 51. Mr Damian Uche Nwagbaraocha (Otherwise known as Nwagbaraocha Damian ) late of No. 55, Western Avenue Ojuelegba, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 2nd day of May, 2009 at Lagos. 52. Gilbert Theobold Olajide late of 42, Hawley Street, Lagos Island, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 31st day of December, 2007 at Lagos. 53. Alimi Idowu late of 3, Aileru Street, Odi Olowo Mushin, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 21st day of August, 2009 at Lagos. 54. Mrs Rukiatu Muritala Asunke (Otherwise known Mrs Rukayat Muritala) late of 16, Adeshiyan Street, Ilupeju, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 19th day of November, 2010 at Lagos. 55. Akinsanmi Babatunde Sunday (Otherwise known as Babatunde Akinsanmi and Sunday Babatunde Akinsanmi) late of 18, Ola Street, Itire, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 11th day of April, 2009 at Lagos. 56. Mr Clifford Odiase late of 3, Mobolorunduro Street, Oko Oba Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 3rd day of October, 2010 at Lagos. 57. Ajibade Samsideen Benson (Otherwise known as Ajibade Benson ) late of 5, Oseni Shotonwa Close, Ebute Ikorodu, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 13th day of April, 2008 at Lagos. 58. Dada Sule Adisa late of 9, Olorogun Street, Odo Eran Itire, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 18th day of April, 2009 at Lagos. 59. Abimbola Oladipo Fagbo late of 1, Abimbola Fagbo Street, Mosan Ipaja, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 14th day of April, 2011 at London. 60. Dr Stella Onyeador (otherwise known as Onyeador Stella) late of 29, Balarabe Musa Crescent, Victoria Island, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 14th day of January, 2009 at Eko Hospital Lagos. 61. Omene Godwin late of 39, Alaramimo Street, Oko Oba Agege, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 6th day of July, 2011 at Ondo Akure State. 62. Martins Eyiere Imaku late of 301 Road 3rd Avenue House 4, Festac Town Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 18th day of February,2009 63. Saliu Balogun Otunba late of 7, Craig Street, Shomolu, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 26th day of December, 2009 . 64. Mr Paul Achi Azubike late of 14, Ololade Street, Shagisha Magodo G.R.A. Ketu, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 20th day of November, 2010 . 65. Beatrice Dare (Otherwise known as Betty Dare and Dare Betty Onaminono) late of 19, Bemil Road, Ojodu Berger , Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 1st day of September , 2011 at Lagos. 66. Mrs Florence Solomi (Otherwise known as Florence Olufunmilola Solomi) late of Okota Police Barracks, Isolo, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 7th day of July, 2011 at Ilesha. 67. Emmanuel Kolawole Olanipekun (Otherwise known as Elder Emmanuel Kolawole Olanipekun ) late of 20, Unity Road, Off Association Avenue Ikotun, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 6th day of August, 2010 at Lagos. 68. Nwodo Anayo Emma late of 5, Tunde Martins Okoko Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 17th day of September, 2010 at Lagos. 69. Aiyenuro Colbert Olu late of Ilaje Apa Badagry deceased who died intestate on the 1st day of June, 2009 at Badagry. 70. James Ndo Attaessien (Otherwise known as James Udo Attaessien and James Udo Ataessien) late of 2, Richard Ibikunle Close, Ikotun Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 24th day of June, 2010 . 71. Nkwogu Collins (Otherwise known as Uche Collins Nkwogu) late of 27, Yisa Street, Itire, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 2nd day of July, 2001 at Abuja. 72. Mr Afolabi Amos (Otherwise known as Amos Afolabi) late of 22, Fakambi Street, Okunola, Egbeda, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 25th day of March, 1993. 73. Madam Comfort Oyibonanu Nwabenu late of 33, Victoria Street, Ojota, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 12th day of August, 2009 at Lagos. 74. Catherine Abba Agoha (Otherwise known as Mrs C.Abba Oduobi and C. Abba Agoha ) late of 38, Alimi Odunsi Street, Ikola, Odunsi Ipaja, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 7th day of July, 2008 at Ikorodu, Lagos State. 75. Caleb Ojo Falusi (Otherwise known as Falusi Ojo Caleb) late of 8, Adebanji Adenegan Avenue, Ibeche, Ikorodu, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 20th day of May, 2010 at Akure, Ondo State. 76. Olatunji Akanni Owolabi (Otherwise known as Olatunji Owolabi) late of 31/33, Owolabi Street, Off Ago Palace Way, Okota, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 6th day of June, 2000 . 77. Godwin Oritsekin Irone late of 24, Irony Street, Aguda, Surulere, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 25th day of October, 2002 at London Borough of Bromley. 78. Israel Ochor (Otherwise known as Ochor Israel ) late of 7, Mufutau Adebanjo Street, Agbede, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 24th day of October, 2008 at Lagos.

NAMES OF APPLICANT APPLYING FOR THE GRANT

1. Helen Ononogbu and Emeka Ononogbu both of No. 6, Mutairo Street, Itire, Surulere, Lagos. widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased. 2. Okuselu Roseline A. of Block 210, Flat 1, Abesan Estate, Ipaja, the mother of the said deceased. 3. Mrs Joseph Adekeye and Fausat Babalola (Nee Akoshile) both of 56, Abule Nla Road, Ebute Metta, Lagos. widower and sister respectively of the said deceased. 4. Adedeji Adesina G. of 10, Alves Street, Lawanson Mushin and Adedeji Adekunle P. of 1, Owo Street, Mushin, two of the children of the said deceased. 5. Mr Ogbonna Michael and Mrs Roseline Ogbonna both of No. 20, Akinremi Street, Anifowose Ikeja Lagos father and mother respectively of the said deceased. 6. Joseph Michael, Obinna Igwe and Ignatius Akwari all of 13, Shosanya Street, Onipanu, Lagos, three brothers of the said deceased. 7. Linda Thomas, Thomas Adesola both fo 41, Makinde Street, Surulere, Lagos and Alhaji Adedayo Thomas of 135, Oshodi Road, Orile Oshodi, widow , sister and brother respectively of the said deceased. 8. Beatrice A.Baworin and Oluwaseun O. Baworin both of 121, Kujore Street, Ojota, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased. 9. Andrew Adenusi , Micheal Adenusi and Abosede Adenusi all of 17, Matogun Road, Lagos, widower and two of the children respectively of the said deceased. 10. Awogbemi Folorunsho and Oluwaseun Folorunsho both fo 23, Powerline Oko Oba Agege, Lagos, widower and one of the children respectively of the said deceased. 11. Surajudeen Kolawole Babatunde and Modinat Ariyinke Babatunde both of 12, Makanjuola Street, Iju Ishaga, Lagos, two of the children of the said deceased. 12. Onyeachi Nnorom (Nee Nweke ) of 11, Ejigbo Road, Orisunbare Shasha Lagos, Ebere Nwakasi (Nee Nweke) of No.8, Macarius Street, Ajah, Lagos, Chinwe Nweke and Chibuzor Nweke both of Block 674, Ikota Housing Estate, Ajah, four children of the said deceased. 13. Amaefule E.O. of 7A, Association Avenue and Ugochukwu Amaefule of 2, Sofuyi Street, Ilasa, two brothers of the said deceased. 14. Mrs Roselyn Onyejekwe and Okechukwu Onyejekwe both of No. 12, Fatai Oke Street, Shomolu, Agoro Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased. 15. Madu Chuka Christian of No. 10, Kadiri Alimi Street Shogunle, Chinyere Madu and Ngozi Madu of No. 2, Market Lane Street, Shogunle, Lagos three of the children of the said deceased. 16. Bisi Olusanwo and Kayode Olusanwo both fo 47, Arije Campbell Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased. 17. Soyinka Matthew and Omodigbo Olugbenga B. both fo KLM 46, Lagos Ibadan Express Road, Mowe Lagos, widow and brother respectively of the said deceased. 18. Mr Akinkuade Adeleye and Miss Opeyemi Adeleye both of 16/20 Emmanuel Nwankwo Street, Agodo Egbe, Lagos, widower and one of the children respectively of the said deceased. 19. Mrs Abiodun Okanlawon and Mrs Mulikat Awoleye both of 47, Shiaba Street, Agege, Lagos, two children of the said deceased. 20. Daniel Asian of 16, Adepeju Off Temple Bus Stop, Bariga, Lagos and Uduak Friday Umoh of 1, Asobiaro Drive, Morrocco , Shomolu, Lagos and widower and brother respectively of the said deceased. 21. Mrs Florence Adebusuyi of 11, Omololu Road, Surulere, Lagos and Mrs Titilayo Adesanya of 8, Mafowoku Fadeyi Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased. 22. Mrs Adeola Akindeinde of 51, Otta Road, Agege, Lagos, and Mr Toyin Akindeinde of 17, Coker Street, Agege, Lagos, widow and brother respectively of the said deceased. 23. Hauwa Yusuf-Orogho (Mrs) of 12, Afe Olusegun Street, Isashi, Ogun State and Saratu Igbafen (Miss) of Block 60, Ojo Barracks Ojo, Lagos, widow and sister respectively of the said deceased. 24. Idowu Oluremi Iyabo and Idowu Olumide A. both of 31, Oluwadare Street, Shomolu, Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased. 25. Rev. (Dr.) Mrs Gloria Esohe Konyeshi and Mrs Adesuwa Ojumola both of 10, Unity Drive Odukoya Estate, Akowonjo, Lagos, widow and the only child respectively of the said deceased. 26. Gabriel Amhande of 7, Jeza Street, Egbeda, Lagos and Esther Azeez Mrs of 10, Adekoya Street, Bolade Oshodi, Lagos, brother and sister respectively of the said deceased. 27. Afusat Iyanda of 61, Adeboye Street, Ijora Badia Lagos,and Ganiyu Iyanda of 11, State High Way Ilupeju, Oshodi N.C.I.E. Beside Lastman Office, two children of the said deceased. 28. Israel Akpan and Edikan Paul Akpan both of 18, Ayorinde Street, Olodi Apapa, Lagos two children of the said deceased. 29. Mrs Juliana Olufunke Olagoke and Mr Oladipo Oluwasayo Olagoke both of 75, Agege Bye Pass Agege, Lagos widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased. 30. James Usman and John Paul both of 14, Akiri Street, Comfort Obo Kirikiri Lagos, two brothers of the said deceased. 31. Christiana A. Ogunlade and Abiodun Ogunlade both of 2, Shobayo Close, Mangoro Agege,Lagos ,widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased. 32. Muolokwu Cecilia (Mrs) and Muolokwu Chika both of 50, Shotinoye Street, Mushin, Lagos, widow and the only child respectively of the said deceased. 33.Akinrinlola Omolara and Akinrinolola Oluwafemi both of 18, Owolabi Street, Egbe, Lagos, mother and brother respectively of the said deceased. 34. Abike Anifatu Bisiriyu, Afusatu Bisiriyu Baoku and Fatimo Bisiriyu Baoku all of 19, Awoyejo Street, Oloosa, Mushin, Lagos, widow and two children respectively of the said deceased. 35. Mr Ejimife Oyovwe, Mr Efevodidi Prince Oyovwe and Mr Ejimiyonvwin Eddison Oyovwe all of 2A, Missionary Street, Off A.I.T. Road, Alagbado, Lagos, three of the children of the said deceased. 36. Mrs Comfort Oyekan and Julius O. Oyekan both of No. 41, Almaruff Street, Ijedodo Ijegun, Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased. 37. Sanusi Wuliat Omotunde and Salako Seun Rahim both fo 10, Adebayo Ogundokun Street, Unity Estate, Idimu, Lagos, two of the children of the said deceased. 38. Mrs Rachael Bose Kolawole of Plot 10, Selewu Road, Igbogbo, Ikorodu, Lagos, and Hon. Justice Gabriel O. Kolawole of 17, Akerele Street, Gbagada, Ifako , Lagos widow and brother respectively of the said deceased. 39. Mr Eze Amos and Miss Nkolika Eze both of No. 1, Aina Street, Ahmadiyya Agege, Lagos widower and one of the children respectively of the said deceased . 40. Professional Executors Trustees and Invest. Ltd (Trust Company) the trust company appointed by the beneficiaries and family. 41. Boblou Okoli and Mrs Viola Ngozi Wibe both of No. 3, Oladokun Avenue, Dankoro Estate, Ojodu, Ikeja, brother and sister respectively of the said deceased. 42. Mrs Grace Ngozika Nwankwo and Chukwuma Jeremiah Nwankwo both of “Q” Block , Flat 4, New Staff Quarters, Police College, Ikeja, Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased. 43. Mrs Onyinyechi Ehiamhen of No. 86, Muwo Road, Tedi Town, Ojo, Lagos and Mr Chidiebere Aguoru of No. 1, Jossy Bush Street, Ijegun Imore, Lagos, widow and brother respectively of the said deceased. 44. Olumide Macaulay and Dara Ojosipe both of 14, Alhaji Salisu Street, Obanikoro , Lagos, widower and sister respectively of the said deceased. 45. Mrs Maria Omowunmi Eko and Mr Vincent Gregory Eko both of 30, Buraimoh Street, Olodi Apapa, Lagos widow and brother respectively of the said deceased. 46. Nnamdi Okafor and Ngozi Okafor both of 12B, Folawiyo Bankole Street, Ikate Surulere, Lagos, two of the children of the said deceased. 47. Mrs Modinat Fowler and Mr Kolade Fowler both fo 14, Idera Street, Off Awoyokun Street, Onipanu, Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased. 48. Pastor Debo Adedeji, Mrs Abeke Adedeji, Mrs Dupe Odunlami and Miss Tola Adedeji all of 26, Adesiyan Street, Palm Grove, Lagos State three grand children and daughter in law respectively of the said deceased. 49. Miss Kate Eno Nkereuwem and Mr Abasi Nkereuwem both of 1, Iyashina Street, Ejigbo, Lagos two of the children of the said deceased. 50. Risikat Babalosha and Raufu Babalosha both of 15, Adegbenro Street, Iwaya, Yaba, Lagos, mother and brother respectively of the said deceased. 51. Mrs Grace Nwagbaraocha and Chijioke Nwagbaraocha both of No. 20, Odesanya Street, Idi Oro, Mushin, Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased. 52. Mrs Tejumade Gilbert and Ayodeji Gilbert both of 42, Hawley Street, Lagos Island, Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased. 53. Abdul Rasaq Olatunde Idowu of 47, Ogunmokun Street, Olosha, Mushin, Abdul Rafiu Olanrewaju Idowu of 3, Kareem Street, Onipanu, Lagos, and Aminat Buhari of 30, Akorofayo Street, Fadeyi , Lagos, three children of the said deceased. 54. Ismaila Muritala and Isiaka Muritala both of No. 16, Adeshiyan Street, Iluepju Palm Groove Lagos, two of the children of the said deceased. 55. Felicia Adebisi Akinsanmi and Alice Olatedun Akinsanmi both fo 18, Ola Street, Itire Lagos, mother and sister respectively of the said deceased. 56. Oluwasegun Odiase and Abiodun Odiase both fo 3, Mobolorunduro Street, New Oko Oba, Lagos, two of the children of the said deceased. 57. Popoola Funmilayo (Nee Benson) and Adebola Benson both of 6B, Alli Close, Kosofe Mile 12, Lagos, two of the children of the said deceased. 58. Esther Dada, Dada Saubana Olorunsola and Dada Musibau Olaitan all of 9, Olorogun Street, Odo Eran Itire, Lagos, widow and two of the children respectively of the said deceased. 59. Elizabeth Aweni Fagbo and Oluwabukola Kofo Fagbo both of 1, Abimbola Fagbo Street, Mosan Ipaja, Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased. 60. Ms Angela Onyeador and Ms Ebele Onyeador both of 29, Balarabe Musa Crescent, Victoria Island, Lagos, two sisters of the said deceased. 61. Taiwo Omene and Dennis E. Omene both of 39, Alaramimo Street, Oko Oba Agege, Lagos , widow and brother respectively of the said deceased. 62. Yemisi Imaku , Christopher Imaku , Azemobho Imaku and Isaac Ekhumelogie Imaku all of 301 Road, House 4, 3rd Avenue, Festac Town, Lagos, three of the children and brother respectively of the said deceased. 63. Miss Adenike Adetayo Otunba of 3, Anuoluwapo Street, Aboru, Iyana Ipaja, Lagos, and Mr Durojaiye Otunba of 7, Craig Street, Shomolu, Lagos, two of the children of the said deceased. 64. Deborah Ngozi Achi, Richard Nnamdi Achi and David Chukwuedo Achi all of 3, Popoola Street, Iju Shaga, three children of the said deceased. 65. Imelda Dare and Segun Dare both of 19, Bemil Road, Ojodu Berger, Lagos, three children of the said deceased. 66. Solomi Falilat of 17, Osifekun Street, Agbara, Solomi Olatunji of Country Bus Stop Ogba , Animashaun Oluwakemi and Solomi Olayemi both of 41, Lawson Street, Surulere, Lagos, four of the children of the said deceased. 67. Olanipekun Gbenga and Olanipekun Noah both fo 20, Unity Road, Off Association Avenue, Ikotun, Lagos, two of the children of the said deceased. 68. Nwodo Obiora Emmanuel , Anikim Ifeanyi Nwodo and Ani Arinze Emmanuel all of 5, Tunde Martins Okoko, lagos, the only child, brother and brother –in-law respectively of the said deceased. 69. Aiyenuro Morenike and Aiyenuro Funke both fo 59, Araromi Street, Majidun Ikorodu, Lagos, two of the children of the said deceaseed. 70. Mrs Elizabeth Ndo James Attaessien and Miss Catherine Attaessien both fo 2, Richard Ibikunle Close, Ikotun Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased. 71. Nkwogu Catherine and Nkwogu Henry both fo 27, Yisa Street, Itire, Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased. 72. Mrs Victoria O. Amos, Temitope A. Amos and Sunday A. Amos all of 22, Fakambi Street, Okunola Egbeda, Lagos, widow and two of the children respectively of the said deceased 73. Mrs Yetunde Frances Pedro of No. 1, Yomi Pedro Street, Gbogila Ipaja Lagos, and Mr Micheal Adetokunbo Martins of No. 9B, Ikorodu Road, Maryland, Lagos, two of the children of the said deceased. 74. Francisca N. Agoha of Umualumaku Uzoagba Imo State and Mr Thaddeus Agoha of Plot 6, Federal Govt. Estate, Isheri Olofin, Lagos, sister and half brother respectively of the said deceased. 75. Mrs Victoria Titilayo Falusi and Mr Akinbowale Odunayo Falusi both of 8, Adebanji Adenegan Avenue Ibeche Ikorodu, Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased. 76. Mrs Omolara Owolabi and Bose Owolabi both of 31/33 Owolabi Street, Off Ago Palace Way Okota, Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased. 77. Mrs Quinneth Irone and Mr Omagbemi Irone both of 24, Irony Street, Aguda, Surulere, Lagos, widow and the only child respectively of the said deceased. 78. Mrs Catherine Katukoma Ochor, Mrs Chinyere Madumere both of 3, Dayo Ajayi Avenue, Ojokoro New Town, Ikorodu, Lagos, and Mrs Ijeoma Mlewechi Kubiat of 10, Adebila Close, Egbeda, Lagos, widow and two children respectively of the sai d deceased.

G.A SAFARI (MR.) PROBATE REGISTRAR

THE NATION FRIDAY, JANUARY 20, 2012

NEWS

Sylva kicks as court orders INEC to accept Dickson as PDP candidate

NEW YEAR MESSAGES

From Kamarudeen Ogundele, Abuja

•Sylva

Federal High Court in Abuja has directed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to recognise Mr. Seriake Dickson as the governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the February 12 election in Bayelsa State. The interim order was granted by Justice Gladys Olotu following a motion exparte filed by Dickson on Tuesday, January 17 and argued by F.N. Nwosu. The order subsists pending hearing and determi-

nation of the motion on notice. The applicant had sought a judicial review by way of mandamus and an order of interim injunction directing INEC to restore his name on the list of candidates for the poll. INEC had excluded PDP candidate from its list of candidates. Justice Olotu granted leave to serve the order on INEC through substituted means by attaching the order and all other processes on the front gate of its head office. She restrained the commission from removing or excluding Dickson’s name and his running mate’s as the duly nominated candidates of the PDP pending the determination of the motion on notice. The court further granted an order for accelerated hearing and abridgment of time in the suit: “That prayer No. 5 is granted as prayed. Consequently, the time limited in an Order 34 Rule 5 (3) of FHC (CP) Rules

It is sad that on these matters that are awaiting determination at the Supreme Court, a judge of the Federal High Court will go ahead to hear and give a ruling. This amounts to judicial rascality and impudence is abridged from seven to four days. “Order 34 Rule 4 of FHC (CP) Rules is abridged from 14 days to seven days.” Before adjourning till January 26, the court also granted an order deeming the mode of service as sufficient. Governor Timipre Sylva has dismissed the order as “strange, despicable and un-

tenable.” Sylva calls on INEC to challenge the “immoral, ungodly and pathetic” court order, granted on Wednesday night under unusually heavy police presence. Speaking through his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Doifie Ola, Sylva said the order and the processes leading to it are “a grave insult to the integrity of the judiciary.” Sylva said he found out that Dickson had filed a suit requesting an order of mandamus to compel INEC to publish his name as the PDP candidate. He said he instructed his lawyers to file a joinder, as an interested party, requesting a stay of proceedings pending the determination of the motion for joinder. The governor said both parties were in court until 6.30 pm on Wednesday, January 18, when the court registrar called Dickson‘s lawyer to the chamber. Sylva said his lawyer was not invited, but he followed

them into the chamber anyway. According to the governor, Justice Olotu asked his lawyer out. But his lawyer insisted on his right to be there, as an interested party. Sylva alleged that the judge threatened to use armed policemen to throw the lawyer out. The governor said his lawyer later left the chamber, but remained in court till 9 pm when about 100 policemen allegedly chased out all sympathisers of Sylva. Sylva said he later learnt that an order was granted by the judge after his people had been ‘forcefully’ removed from the court. Sylva said what Dickson sought was an ex parte motion of relief to compel INEC to put up his name as PDP candidate. But the judge granted leave compelling INEC to publish the name and a mandatory order compelling the electoral body to put up Dickson’s name as the PDP candidate.

The governor noted that Justice Olotu had determined the substantive relief sought by Dickson at the ex parte stage, which meant that INEC was not heard, his application for stay was not heard, and the relief Dickson was seeking heard at this preliminary stage. Sylva decried the infractions as sad for democracy and the rule of law. He said: “It is sad that on these matters that are awaiting determination at the Supreme Court, a judge of the Federal High Court of Nigeria will go ahead to hear and give a ruling. This amounts to judicial rascality and impudence.” The governor said there was no affidavit of urgency to the suit by Dickson. It was filed on Tuesday, assigned Wednesday and heard on the same day. Sylva, however, hoped that despite the temporary setback, he would use the law to right the injustice. He urged his supporters to remain calm, law abiding and peaceful.

THE NATION FRIDAY, JANUARY 20, 2012

MONEY LINK

CBN to banks: resolve ATM complaints within 72 hours

UTOMATED Teller Machine (ATM) guideline issued from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has mandated banks or independent organisations that deploy ATM for use by the public to address technical faults within 72 hours. This, the apex bank said, is to improve the quality of ATM service to bank customers across the country. The guidelines is contained in a standard set by the apex bank for operators in the electronic banking system. The guideline, which focuses on technology and specification; deployment, operations, security, maintenance dispute resolutions, liability shift, regulatory monitoring and penalties for defaulters, were addressed to banks, non-banks or acquirers. Acquirers are banks or any other legal per-

Stories by Collins Nweze

son concluding contracts with merchants concerning acceptance of payment by means of electronic payment instrument. A circular from the CBN, said operators are expected to comply with the rule in respect of each ATM within their domain and control. Part of the rule is that all ATM terminals will comply with levels one and two Europay, MasterCard, Visa (EMV) and must be upgraded from time to time to comply with latest versions within six months of release of the version. EMV is the global standard that is helping to ensure smart chip and PIN cards, terminals and other systems that can work together. ATM owners or acquirers, are not expected to discriminate against any

card scheme or issuer even as stand-alone or closed ATMs are not allowed. Although more commercial banks have embraced the new Verve cards with double inbuilt security features to guard against rising incidents of fraud from the automated teller machines (ATMs), many Nigerians remain sceptical about the touted security features. Verve Cards, like any other automation window, has no close-ended security features as there is no absolute solution to electronics purse fraud. Also, the CBN directed that the helpdesk contacts are to be adequately displayed at the ATM terminals, while all surcharges are to be fully disclosed to customers. The new rule also stipulates that there must be availability of cash in ATMs at all times. “The funding

and operation of the ATM deployed by non-bank institutions should be the sole responsibility of the bank or institutions that entered into agreement with them for cash provisioning. Every ATM is expected by this arrangement to have cameras that will view and record all persons using the machines and every activity at the ATM like card insertion, Personal Identification Number (PIN) entry, transaction selection, cash withdrawal and card taking, amongst others. All cardholders’ complaints are to be treated within a maximum of 72 hours from the date of receipt of the complaints. Networks used for transmission of ATM transactions must be demonstrated to have data confidentiality and integrity. Where the user of the ATM blocks his im-

Rand strengthens to 2-month high

terest rates at current levels should continue to encourage rand bulls, given South Africa’s favourable relative yield differential,” Tebogo Mosepele, an analyst at Standard Bank Group Limited in Johannesburg, said. The rand has returned 2.6 per cent this year in the carry trade, in which investors borrow in countries that have low interest rates and invest in high-yielding currencies, according to data compiled by Bloomberg. The Reserve Bank kept its key rate steady in 2011 as the worsening European debt crisis outweighed concerns about rising prices. Inflation was unchanged at 6.1 percent in December, exceeding the bank’s target for a second month, though lower than economists forecast. The monetary policy stance is “accommodative and supportive of the real economy,” Marcus said,

HE rand climbed to a twomonth high against the dol lar after South Africa’s Central Bank Governor, Gill Marcus, said policy makers did not discuss the possibility of cutting borrowing costs as they left interest rates unchanged. South Africa’s currency appreciated as much as 1.1 per cent to 7.9028 per dollar, the strongest level since November 14. It traded 0.7 per cent up at 7.9363 per dollar. Against the euro, it climbed 0.4 per cent to 10.2296, the strongest on a closing basis since September 15. The Reserve Bank left the repurchase rate at 5.5 per cent for a seventh consecutive meeting, maintaining the country’s yield advantage. South Africa’s benchmark rate compares with 0.25 per cent in the United States and 0.75 per cent in the euro region. “We view the Reserve Bank’s decision as positive for the rand. In-

Foreign reserves gain $700m in 2 weeks

adding that the European debt crisis, which began in 2009 in Greece and has spread to Italy and Spain, threatens to erode growth in a region that buys about a third of South African manufactured exports. Investors have pared bets the central bank will increase interest rates, with the three-month forward-rate agreement contract starting in six months dropping for a third day to 5.65 percent, from a high of 5.71 per cent on January 16. The rand advanced earlier after French and Spanish borrowing costs decreased, adding to signs the European debt crisis is easing. The European Central Bank, said in its monthly report today that there are signs the economy is stabilizing and the ECB’s record loans to financial institutions will help support growth. The central bank said it will continue to support euro-area banks.

HE foreign reserves which currently stand at $33.7 bil lion as at January 16, gained $700 million in 12 days. The reserve was at $33 billion on January 4 and is not expected to fall below $30 billion this year. Head, Market Research, Greenwich Limited, Babatunde Obaniyi, said the $33 billion is equivalent to about eight months of import cover, adding that the reserves have fluctuated between $31 billion to $35 billion in the last one year. It said the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) will continue to defend the reserves from falling below $30 billion to save the naira from losing its strength. He said Nigeria prefers a strong and stable naira, given its significant dependence on imports and desire for price stability. In the interests of a stable naira, the CBN manages the naira/dollar exchange rate within a narrow range that is

FGN BONDS Amount N

Rate %

M/Date

3-Year 5-Year 5-Year

35m 35m 35m

11.039 12.23 13.19

19-05-2014 18-05-2016 19-05-2016

WHOLESALE DUTCH AUCTION SYSTEM Amount

Initial Current Quotation Price Market N8250.00 5495.33 N1000.00 N552.20

Price Loss 2754.67 447.80

INTERBANK RATES 7.9-10% 10-11%

PRIMARY MARKET AUCTION (T-BILLS) Tenor 91-Day 182-Day 1-Year

Amount 30m 46.7m 50m

Rate % 10.96 9.62 12.34

Date 28-04-2011 “ 14-04-2011

GAINERS AS AT 19-1-12 SYMBOL

AGLEVENT CCNN NAHCO MAYBAKER AIICO UNITYBNK REDSTAREX DIAMONDBNK UNILEVER FIDSON DAARCOMM

O/PRICE

1.40 5.51 5.60 2.50 0.51 0.54 2.37 2.22 29.00 0.98 0.50

C/PRICE

1.47 5.78 5.87 2.62 0.53 0.56 2.45 2.28 29.60 1.00 0.51

CHANGE

0.07 0.27 0.27 0.12 0.02 0.02 0.08 0.06 0.60 0.02 0.01

LOSER AS AT 19-1-12 SYMBOL

MULTITREX VITAFOAM SKYEBANK TRANSCORP UBA UPL JAPAULOIL CUSTODYINS PRESTIGE IKEJAHOTEL PREMBREW

O/PRICE

1.21 5.27 3.89 0.62 2.50 3.57 0.84 2.32 0.86 1.63 0.96

C/PRICE

1.15 5.01 3.70 0.59 2.38 3.40 0.80 2.21 0.82 1.56 0.92

Amount

Offered ($) Demanded ($)

MANAGED FUNDS

OBB Rate Call Rate

reviewed on an annual basis. The reserves had dropped to $34.9 billion on August 16, before it deteriorated to the current level. Also, the foreign currency reserves equally stood at $37 billion as at July 4, 2010, and moved to $68 billion in August 2008 before the global financial crises impacted negatively on it, according to the apex bank. The CBN had consistently noted that there are concerns about the likely impact of a double dip recession on oil prices and already declining foreign reserves. Second, there are also concerns about the delay in implementing fundamental economic decisions that would shore up reserves. It is estimated that simply passing the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB) and totally removing subsidies on fuel will add at least $10 billion to the reserves yearly.

DATA BANK

Tenor

NIDF NESF

age for camera capture, the ATM should be able to abort the transaction. Regulatory monitoring stipulates that any institution which operates ATM should file an updated list of such machines, including the details of location of their addresses with Banking and Payment Systems Department of the CBN for compliance monitoring. The apex bank is expected to conduct onsite checking of such machines, with a view to ensuring compliance with cash and service availability at the ATMs. On penalties to defaulters, the new CBN guidelines stipulate sanctions, in the form of monitory penalties, or suspension of the acquiring / processing services or both will be imposed on such erring institutions for failure to comply with any of the provisions.

Amount

Exchange

Sold ($)

Rate (N)

Date

450m

452.7m

450m

150.8

08-8-11

250m

313.5m

250m

150.8

03-8-11

400m

443m

400m

150.7

01-8-11

EXHANGE RATE 26-08-11 CAPITAL MARKET INDEX Currency

Year Start Offer

Current Before

C u r r e n t CUV Start After %

NGN USD

147.6000

149.7100

150.7100

-2.11

NGN GBP

239.4810

244.0123

245.6422

-2.57

NGN EUR

212.4997

207.9023

209.2910

-1.51

149.7450

154.0000

154.3000

-3.04

Bureau de Change 152.0000 (S/N)

153.0000

155.5000

-2.30

Parallel Market

154.0000

156.0000

-1.96

NSE CAP Index

NIGERIA INTER BANK (S/N)

27-10-11 N6.5236tr 20,607.37

28-10-11 N6.617tr 20,903.16

% Change -1.44% -1.44%

MEMORANDUM QUOTATIONS Name

(S/N)

153.0000

DISCOUNT WINDOW Feb. ’11

July ’11

Aug ’11

MPR

6.50%

8.75%

Standing Lending Rate ,, Deposit Rate ,, Liquidity Ratio Cash Return Rate Inflation Rate

8.50% 4.50% 25.00% 1.00% 12.10%

8.50% 4.50% 25.00% 2.00% 12.10%

9.50% 5.50% 30.00% 2.00% 9.4%

Offer Price

Bid Price

9.17 1.00 118.85 98.43 0.76 1.04 0.88 1,642.73 8.24 1.39 1.87 7,351.90 193.00

9.08 1.00 118.69 97.65 0.73 1.04 0.87 1,635.25 7.84 1.33 1.80 7,149.37 191.08

ARM AGGRESSIVE KAKAWA GUARANTEED STANBIC IBTC GUARANTE AFRINVEST W.A. EQUITY FUND THE LOTUS CAPITAL HALAL BGL SAPPHIRE FUND BGL NUBIAN FUND NIGERIA INTERNATIONAL DEB. PARAMOUNT EQUITY FUND CONTINENTAL UNIT TRUST CENTRE-POINT UNIT TRUST STANBIC IBTC NIG EQUITY THE DISCOVERY FUND • ARM AGGRESSIVE • KAKAWA GUARANTEED

CHANGE

0.06 0.26 0.19 0.03 0.12 0.17 0.04 0.11 0.04 0.07 0.04

• STANBIC IBTC GUARANTE • AFRINVEST W.A. EQUITY FUND

NIBOR Tenor 7 Days 30 Days 60 Days 150 Days

Rate (Previous) 24 Aug, 2011 9.0417 9.6667 11.2917 12.1250

Rate (Currency) 26, Aug, 2011 10.17% 11.46% 11.96% 12.54%

Movement

OPEN BUY BACK Previous

Current

04 July, 2011

07, Aug, 2011

Bank

8.5000

P/Court

8.0833

Movement

THE NATION FRIDAY, JANUARY 20, 2012

S/N

NAMES OF THE DECEASED PERSON:

1. Mr Tajudeen Abiola Ajao (Otherwise known as Mr Tajudeen Ajao) late of House 310 R, Kaduna Close, Nepa Housing Estate, Ijede Ikorodu, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 23rd day of February, 2011 at Lagos. 2. Sunday Adegoke Adeleke (Otherwise known as Mr Sunday Adeleke Adegoke) late of 17, Freeman Street, Aiyetoro Ikorodu, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 18th day of February, 2010 at Ikorodu, Lagos. 3. Ugwu Chambaline late of Iponri Police Barracks Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 23rd day of August, 2010 at Lagos. 4. Mrs Remi Akande late of 17, Oluwalogbon Street, Ketu, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 6th day of March, 2006 at Military Hospital, Yaba. 5. Mr Moses Francis Adisa-Oyetola late of No. 4, Emiloju Street, Off Akindolu Lambe deceased who died intestate on the 15th day of December, 2010 at Lagos. 6. Fadahunsi Sylvester late of 4, Abiodun Odeseye Street, Ifako Gbagada, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 24th day of September, 2010 at Lagos. 7. Yusuf Alade Abdulrahmon (Otherwise known as Mr Yusuf Alade) late of No. 1, Jagunmolu Close, Off Affinju Omo Street, Mile 12, Lagos State, deceased who died intestate on the 12th day of May, 2004 at Holy Trinity Hospital Ikeja. 8. Mrs Muyibat Kadiri (Otherwise known as Kadiri Muyibat) late of 29, Agbamu Street, Amukoko, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 28th day of April, 2011 at General Hospital Lagos. 9. Adeoye Roseline late of 9, Onabadejo Adebayo Close, Ipaja, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 10th day of December, 2009 at Lasuth Ikeja, Lagos. 10. Mr Akintunde Olu Olufade (Otherwise known as Mr Akin Olufade) late of Road 3, House 9, Williams Estate Agege, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 7th day of December, 2010 at Lagos. 11. Mr Joshua Olubisi Adebayo (Otherwise known as Mr Adebayo Bisi) late of 5, Akinwande Obadore, Alimosho, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 16th day of May , 2010 at Federal Medical Centre Abeokuta. 12. Ikpea Agnes late of No. 16, Oluwaloyimu Street, Ikeja, deceased who died intestate on the 8th day of April, 2011 at Luth Lagos. 13. Soremi Michael late of 31, Iyalla Street, Mushin Lagos, State deceased who died intestate on the 27th day of August, 2010 at Lagos. 14. Engr. Sotire Emmanuel Kolawole Olusoga late of 9, Niyi Ogunleye Street, Ojota, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 10th day of April, 2010 at Lagos. 15. Mr Igberase Sylvester late of 12, Fadu Avenue, Orilowo Ejigbo, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 18th day of October, 2010 at Devine Trinity Hospital, Ejigbo, Lagos. 16. Pa Joseph Idowu, Oluwole-Olonade late of No. 20, Randle Avenue, Surulere, Lagos State deceased who died intestate on the 19th day of August, 1994 at Ayo-Clinics 8, Alapere Street, Ketu. 17. Olukayode Idowu late of 7, Adeola Adeoye Street, Ikeja, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 2nd day of August, 2011 at Lagos. 18. Mrs Victoria Iyabode Koku late of 13, Oyegbola Street, Off Kayode Street, Onipanu Mushin Lagos State deceased who died intestate on the 8th day of December, 2009 at Lagos. 19. Andrew A. Edegan (Otherwise known as Mr Edegan Andrew) late of 18/20 Kusa Street, Bariga, Lagos State deceased who died intestate on the 4th day of March, 2006 at Lagos State. 20. Ayinde Olayiwola Ganiyu (Otherwise known as Ayinde Soddam Olawale) late of 45, Mosaku Street, Oshodi, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 26th day of August, 2009 at Lagos. 21.Samuel Olawale Ayara late of 8, Olowodunni Street, Ketu, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 24th day of February, 2010 at Lagos. 22. Mr Simeon Oyedele Aro (Otherwise known as Oyedele Aro Simeon) late of 26, Oko Oba Street, Ebute Metta, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 14th day of September,2010 at Lagos. 23. Alhaji Arashi Yusuf (Otherwise known as Mr Yusuf Arashi and Alhaji Aransi Yusuf ) late of 4, Afolayan Street, Bamidiya Ijora Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 8th day of March, 2011 at Mowe. 24. Mr Joshua Sotimehin Osoyemi (Otherwise known as Mr Shotimehin Josuah) late of 34, Olowojeunjeje Street, Ajegunle, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 3rd day of June, 1980 at Lagos. 25. Adeyinka John Adegbite late of 11, Lanre Shutti Close, Magodo Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 12th day of June, 2008 at London England. 26. Alhaji Wale Alamu Kareem (Otherwise known as Kareem Wale Alamu) late of 20, Olusesi Street, Ire Akari, Lagos State deceased who died intestate on the 25th day of July, 2010 at Lagoon Hospital, Apapa, Lagos. 27. Lawal Azeez (Otherwise known as Lawal Azeez Ayoirinde) late of 251 Road Plot 70, Festac Phase 11 Abule Ado, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 15th day of November,2010 at Lagos. 28. Mrs Ngobi Roseline (Otherwise known as Rose Ngobi and Mrs Rose Ngobi) late of No. 19, Dayo Adegiwa Street, Ijaiye, Ojokoro, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 8th day of July, 2010 at Lagos. 29. Mrs Sussanah Taiwo Mabadeje (Otherwise known as Mrs Mabadeje Sussanah Taiwo) late of No. 11 Ila Orangun Street, Ketu, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 17th day of October, 2010 at Lagos. 30. Jegede Sunday (Otherwise known as WO Jegede Sunday and EX 63NA/263345 WO. Sunday Jegede) late of D65, Post SVC Estate , Ojo, Lagos, deceased who died intestae on the 3rd day of October, 2009 at Lagos. 31. Mrs Victoria Chioma Osuwah (Otherwise known as Mrs Osuwah Victoria) late of 2nd Avenue 208 Road, A Close House 25, Festac Town, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 23rd day of August, 2006 at Lagos. 32. Pa Kasali Aileru Olowonmi late of Olowonmi House 128, Agege Motor Road, deceased who died intestate on the 16th day of January,2011. 33. Mr Biliaminu Ogidan late of 11, Ramoni Street, Itire Ikate Surulere, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 27th day of January,2009 at Aishat Specialist Hospital Idi Araba. 34. Mr Ajieh Ernest O. (Otherwise known as Mr Ernest Odanlonunu Ajieh) late of 23, Ipokia Avenue Owode Ijako deceased who died intestate on the 29th day of April, 2010 at Lagos. 35. Eniyandunmo Juliana late of 3, Olagoke Street, Oko Oba Agege, Lagos State deceased who died intestate on the 6th day of June, 2009 at Lagos. 36. Reuben Olarewaju Obafemi (Otherwise known as Ademola Reuben Olarewaju Olawuyi and Olawuyi ) late of 21, Meren Close, Satellite Town, Chevron Estate, deceased who died intestate on the 12th day of January,2010 at Lagos. 37. Mrs Okotore Comfort Adenihun (Otherwise known as Okotore Comfort) late of 8, Salvation lStreet, Igbe Road, Igbogbo, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 25th day of January,2011 at General Hosptial, Ikorodu. 38. Olugbesan Omoshileola (Otherwise known as Onogoriola and Olugbesan Omosile Ola) late of 7, Ayangboye Street, Anthony Village, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 6th day of August, 2011 at General Hospital, Lagos Island. 39. Mrs Sarah Adesola Olufowobi (Otherwise known as Olufowobi Sarah Adesola ) late of 3, Oshokoya Street, Omole Phase 2, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 22nd day of September, 2011 at Lagos. 40. Musekiru Olawunmi Quadri (Otherwise known as Quadri Musekiru and Quadri Musediku) late of 25, Orogiri Street, Isale Eko, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 3rd day of September, 2003 at General Hospital, Ikorodu. 41. Olagunju Afolake (Ms) late of 16, Lemmy Street, Command Ipaja, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 9th day of April, 2011 at Ilesha 42. Oyebanjo Olusanya (Mr) (Otherwise known as Olusanya Oyebanjo) late of 9, Alh. Yusuf Close Agidingbi, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 3rd day of July, 2009 at Lagos. 43. Mrs Olayinka Ilo late of 7, Raji Street, Papa Ashafa, Dopemu Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 10th day of May, 2010 at Lagos. 44. Mrs Elizaebth Koroyin late of 60, Adejiyan Street, Amukoko, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 17th day of August, 2011 at Lagos. 45. Adeleye Adekunle Mwo (Otherwise known as Adeleye Adekunle Jimoh (MWO) and MWO Adeleye and A.(Rtd) late of 3, Victory Divine Ave. Surulere, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 5th day of August, 2009 at Lagos. 46. Monyei Augustine (Otherwise known as Augustine Monyei M52) late of 35, John Ebu Street, Isawo Ikorodu, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 10th day of October,2010 at Ikorodu. 47. Okoro Nwani late of 43, Ikosi Road, Ketu deceased who died intestate on the 13th day of May, 2011 at Anyigba Kogi State. 48. Cpl Bello Murtala (Ex 63 NA/247263) late of Nig. Army Cant. Barrcks Ikeja deceased who died intestate on the 5th day of November,2007 at Lasuth Lagos. 49. Mrs Patricia Taiwo Atala (Otherwise known as Atala Taiwo) late of 5, Odunlami Close, Ijaiye Ojokoro Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 25th day of December, 2009 at LASUTH , Lagos. 50. Shaibu Zibiri (Otherwise known as Subiri Saibu) late of NPMC Ijanikin Badagry Express lagos deceased who died intestate on the 27th day of June, 2007 at Lagos. 51. Mr Ogidan Taiwo late of 14, Rasaki Street , Aboru Ipaja deceased who died intestate on the 7th day of November,2004 at Lagos. 52. Mr Ademosun Akinmolayemi (Otherwise known as Professor Ademosu Akinmolayemi) Layemi late of 3, Olawaiye Street, Ikeja, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 6th day of January,2011 at Osun State. 53. Ejokpaghu Christopher (Otherwise known as Ejokpaghu Christopher Imoni) late of 14, Jacob Adeleye Street, Itire deceased who died intestate on the 10th day of December,2010 at Luth , Lagos. 54. Osueke Desmond late of 24, Araromi Street, Bariga, Lagos, deceased who died on the 9th day of August, 2010 at Lagos. 55. Modupe Bolatito Akinro late of Plot 25 Kingdom Way Gemade Estate, Ipaja deceased who died intestate on the 19th day of February, 2010 at Canada. 56. Inspt. Silver Beribatu (Otherwise known as Silver Beribatu) late of Blk X, Flat 1, Satellite Police Quarter Satellite Town, deceased who died intestate on the 26th day of April, 2010 at General Hospital. 57. Mr Tijani Adekunle Adeniji late of 10, Ibitoye Street, Ilupeju, Mushin, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 7th day of March, 2004 at Lagos. 58. Felicia Aiyedun Ibitoye (Otherwise known as Felicia A. Ibitoye) late of 711 Road, D Close, H2 Festac Town, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 11th day of July,2010 at Maryland U.S.A. 59. Oribhabor Monday (Otherwise known as Inspt. Monday Oribhabor ) late of New Site Foundation Oko Afo Badagry deceased who died intestate on the 13th day of October,2010 at Edo State. 60. Okoye James Beluchukwu late of 55, Ebute Igbogbo Road, Ikorodu, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 3rd day of May,1993 at Anambra. 61. Adeniyi Rafiat Oyekunbi (Otherwise known as Prince Miss Adeniyi Rafiat) late of 19, Okejide Street, Ejigbo, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 11th day of June, 2011 at Lagos. 62. Mr Chamberlain Iweka Okelue (Otherwise known as Mr C I. Okelue and Okelue Chamberlain Loveth Iweka) late of 3, Otasunmi Street, Off Ifoshi Road, Iyana Ejigbo, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 30th day of April, 2011 at Lagos. 63. Oladunni Banwo late of 1102-77 Rochampton Avenue Toronto Ontario M4P) 3B8 deceased who died intestate on the 17th day of November, 2010 at Canada. 64. Echebiri Daniel (Otherwise known as Echebiri Daniel Ibe) late of No. 1, Odumakalu Street, River Estate, Ojodu, Berger , Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 3rd day of May,2008 at Lagos. 65. Agbama Gabriel Nti (Otherwise known as Mr Gabriel Agbama Ibibo) late of 8, Nurudeen Street, Opposite Ojo, Cantonment, deceased who died intestate on the 2nd day of March, 2011 at Utugwang Obudu LGA Cross River. 66. Mr Theophilus A.Ogunsola (Otherwise known as Ogunsola Bayo) late of Blk 41, Flat 5, Iponri Estate, Surulere, Lagos, who died intestate on the 19th day of December, 2001 at Ilorin . 67. Rotimi Taiwo Agbelusi (Otherwise known as Agbelusi Taiwo Rotimi) late of 2, Abdul Attah Road,Unilag Staff Quarters Akoka deceased who died intestate on the 15th day of June, 2008 at India. 68. Ofuoma Johnson late of 8, Ofuoma Street, Odan Ishesi Off Badagry Express way deceased who died intestate on the 13th day of July,2010 at Lagos. 69. Temiola Elizabeth (Otherwise known as Temi Lola Elizabeth) late of 33, Omolere Ikuomola Street, Iloro Agege, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 13th day of August, 2008 at Lagos. 70. Ebenezer Chukwuemeka Anadebe late of Block 1, Flat 4, U Close, 7th Avenue Festac Town, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 25th day of June,2009 at Festac Lagos. 71. Ashaka Modupe (Otherwise known as Modupe Oluwatosin Ashaka) late of 18, Akinrosoye Street, Egbe deceased who died intestate on the 8th day of March, 2011 at Lagos. 72. Madam Medeyinlo Bada (Otherwise known as Bada Medeyinlo) late of 42, Smith Lane Ita Eleye Lagos Island, deceased who died intestate on the 22nd day of August, 1984 at Lagos. 73. Mr Joseph Kayode Johnson late of 103, Igi Olugbin Street, Off Pedro Road, Bariga, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 27th day of January,2010 at Lagos. 74. Mrs Dupe Onifade (Nee Olawoore Ibijoke Asabi) (Otherwise known as Olawore Ibijoke Asabi and Modupe Onifade) late of 6, Modupe Street, Iju, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 13th day of June, 2007 at Lagos. 75. Mr Ogunsanya Joseph (Otherwise known as Ogunsanya Joseph Adeniyi) late of 40, St. Lucy Road, Off Adams Street, Lambe deceased who died intestate on the 23rd day of February, 2009 at General Hospital, Ifako, Ijaiye. 76. Isiaka Toyin Ganiyu , late of 6, Damilola Close, Ajegunle, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 1st day of March, 2011. 77. Mrs Aishat Bright –Aikhegbe (Otherwise known as Aikhegbe Aisha) late of 31, Tomi Williams Street, Abule –Odu, Egbeda, deceased who died intestate on the 21st day of June, 2011 at General Hospital, Ikeja. 78. Dr Micheal Ole Idika (Otherwise known as Micheal Idika) late of 6, Jacob Street, Akiode Ikeja, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 5th day of February, 2008 at Lagos.

G.A SAFARI (MR.) PROBATE REGISTRAR

August 8, 1

NAMES OF APPLICANT APPLYING FOR THE GRANT

1. Ashimiu Abidemi Ajao, Azeezat Omobolanle Ajao and Mrs Muibat Omowunmi Ajao all of House 310 R Kaduna Close, Nepa Housing Estate, Ijede Ikrodou Lagos, widow and two of the children respectively of the said deceased. 2. Mrs Modupe Adeleke , Ezekiel Rotimi Adeleke and Olusola Adeleke all of 17, Freeman Street, Aiyetoro Ikorodu, Lagos, widow and two children respectively of the said deceased. 3. Ugwu Ife and Adigha Rita both of Denton Police Ebute Metta , sister and brother respectively of the said deceased. 4. Adegboye Akande of 72, Odundan Street, Lagos, and Deborah Akande of 13, Moses Iguodala, Lagos, two of the children of the said deceased. 5. Oluwayemisi Adisa-Oyetola, Esther Bola Adisa-Oyetola and Damilola Adisa-Oyetola all of No 4, Emiloju Crescent, Lambe, widow and two of the children respectively of the said deceased. 6. Mr Ayokunle Fadahunsi and Mr Olayinka Fadahunsi both of 4, Abiodun Odeseye Street, Ifako Gbagada, Lagos, two of the children of the said deceased. 7. Mrs Ajoke Zainab Yusuf, Miss Azeezat Taiwo Yusuf, Mr Azeez Kehinde Yusuf and Miss Aishat Idowu Yusuf all of 1, Jagunmolu Close, Off Affinjuomo Street, Mile 12, Lagos State , widow and three children respectively of the said deceased. 8. Mr Memudu Kadiri Alawode, Olanrewaju Kadiri and Wosilat Kadiri all of 29, Agbamu Street, Amukoko, Lagos, widower and two children respectively of the said deceased. 9. Michael Beyioku Adeoye and Taiwo Afolagbe Adeoye both fo 9, Onabadejo Adebayo Close, Ipaja, Lagos, widower and one of the children respectively of the said deceased. 10. Mrs Titilola Olufade, Mrs Kikelomo Desalu, Mr Demilade Olufade and Miss Ojumi Tunrayo Olufade all of Road 3, House 9, Williams Estate Agege, Lagos, widow and three children respectively of the said deceased. 11. Mrs Lydia Funke Adebayo, Miss Omolara Abimbola Adebayo and Miss Adetutu Funmilayo Adebayo all of 1, Alade Oyedele Street, Akute, Ogun State widow and two of the children respectively of the said deceased. 12. Mrs Comfrot O. Omofuwa, Mr Benjamin Ikpea and Mr Emmanuel Ikpea all of No. 16, Oluwaloyimu Street, Ikeja , three of the children of the said deceased. 13. Mrs Rachael Wuraola Taylor, Mrs Temitope Oluwatoyin Soetan and Mrs Chrstiana Oluwakemi Ogundare all of 31, Iyalla Street, Mushin, Lagos, three children of the said deceased. 14. Tolulase Olufunmilayo Ajayi of Block A5, High Rise, Unilag Lagos, Olawale Adekunle Segun of 12, Sophie Kuye Street, Pedro Gbagada, Lagos, Omotola Rotimi of 13, Dele Bankole Street, Soroga Estate, Ikorodu, Lagos and Oluwole Olumide Sotire of 9, Amosu Street, Ogudu GRA, Lagos, four children of the said deceased. 15. Mrs Igberase E. Patricia, Mr Igberase O. Kenneth, Miss Igberase O. Faith and Mr Igberase H. Odianosen all of 12, Fadu Avenue Orilowo Ejigbo, Lagos, widow and three of the children respectively of the said deceased. 16. Mrs Rebecca O. Oluwole , Olonade of 20 Randle Avenue Surulere, Lagos State and Mrs Omotunde Stowe (Nee Oluwole) Olonode of 10 Adeyeri Crescent, Ifako Ijaiye Lagos State, widow and the only child respectively of the said deceased. 17. Mr Ifetayo Idowu, Mrs Grace Adebisi Idowu and Mr Olusesan B. Idowu all of 7, Adeola Adeoye Street, Ikeja, Lagos, the father, mother and brother respectively of the said deceased. 18. Mrs Omolara Akinfenwa of 4, Dele Akingboye Street, Ifako Gbagada, Lagos and Mr Charles Adegboyega Koku of 13, Oyegbola Street, Off Kayode Street, Onipanu Mushin, Lagos, two children of the said deceased. 19. Edegan Josephine and Edegan Evans both fo 18/20 Kusa Street, Bariga, Lagos widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased. 20. Mrs Monsurat Folakemi A. and Ayinde Soddam Olawale both of 45, Mosaku Street, Oshodi, Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased. 21. Mrs Charity Ayara and Mr Ayara Lucky Omopelumi both of 8, Owodunni Street,Ketu, Lagos, widow and brother respectively of the said deceased. 22. Mrs F. Akolade (Nee O. Aro) of 34, Fadeyemi Street, Aboru Ipaja, Lagos, and Mrs Taibat Raji of 36, Fademi Street, Aboru Ipaja, Lagos, two of the children of the said deceased. 23. Mrs Toyin Yusuf and Mrs Idaya Ayandiran both of 4, Afolayan Street, Bamidiya Ijora Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased. 24. Mr Sotomi Sotimehin and Mrs Bosede Olufemi both of 34, Olowo Jeunjeje Ajegunle, lagos, two of the children of the said deceased. 25. Mrs Kikelomo Adegbite of No. 11, Lanre Shutti Close, Magodo and Adewale Adegbite of No. 1 Craig Street, Ogudu, Lagos, widow and brother respectively of the said deceased. 26. Mariam Kareem (Mrs) and Adetunji Kareem both of 20, Olusesi Street, Ire Akari Lagos, widow and the only child respectively of the said deceased. 27. Musa Lawal and Suleiman Lawal both of 251 Road , Plot 70 Festac Phase II, two of the children of the said deceased. 28. Mr John Ngobi and Mr Obinna Ngobi both of No. 19, Dayo Adegiwa Street, Ijaiye Ojokoro Lagos, widower and one of the children respectively of the said deceased. 29. Deborah Oluwabukunmi Mabadeje and Michael Olumide Mabadeje both of 82, Maras Odugbose Street, Agric, Ikorodu, Lagos, two of the children of the said deceased. 30. David O. Jegede of D65, Post SVC Estate, Ojo, Lagos, and Ebenezer G.Jegede of No. 4, Dele Ogundele Street, Oregun, Ikeja, Lagos, two of the children of the said deceased. 31. Mr Sunday Chukwuma Osuwah and Miss Comfort Ihouma Osuwah both fo 2nd Avenue 208 Road, “A” Close House 25, Festac Town, Lagos, two children of the said deceased. 32. Kasali Kuburat , Mr Kasali Kazeem and Mr Kasali Salam all of Olowonmi House No. 128, Agege, Motor Road, Lagos State ,three children of the said deceased. 33. Tawakalitu Ogidan, Idiat Animashaun and Aminot Akinsanya all of 11, Ramoni Street, Itire Ikate Surulere, Lagos, widow and two of the children respectively of the said deceased. 34. Mrs Esther O. Ajieh of No. 23, Ipokia Avenue Owode Ijako and Mr Peter Oikelomen of 31, Yusuf Street, Iyana Ipaja, Lagos, widow and brother respectively of the said deceased. 35. Mr Olakunle Eniyandunmo and Funsho Eniyandunmo both fo No. 3, Olagoke Street, Oko Oba Orile Agege, Lagos, widower and the only child respectively of the said deceased. 36. Daniel Adebowale Ademola and Esther Ademola both of 21, Meren Close, Chevron Estate, Satellite Town, Lagos two of the children of the said deceased. 37. Mr Okotore Kolapo of 8, Salvation Street, Igbogbo Ikorodu, Lagos and Mr Adediran Theophilus Adegbenro of 5, Olaneye Close, Off Femisara Ikorodu, Lagos, widower and brother respectively of the said deceased. 38. Olugbesan Naomi Adetutu and Oyebode Folayemi both of 7, Ayanboye Street, Anthony Village, Lagos, widow and sister respectively of the said deceased. 39. Mabayoje Bolarinwa Olufowobi, Temitope Sarumi, Adedayo Ogundele and Babatunde Olufowobi all of 3, Oshokoya Street, Omole Phase 2, Lagos, widower and three of the children respectively of the said deceased. 40. Mr Hammed Quadri, Mr Olatunji Habeeb Otun Quadri both of 72, Herbert Macaulay Street, Ebute Metta, Lagos, Mr Hakeem Quadri of 25, Orogiri Street, Isale Eko lagos and Mr Hazeez Ottun of 5, Agboolokun Court, four of the children f the said deceased. 41. Adedire Olagunju of 16, Lemmy Street, Command Ipaja, Lagos, and Adegoke Olagunju of New Site Aralapon, Amuta Ilesha Osun State, two brothers of the said deceased. 42. Oluyemi Ihechiloro Olusanya and Temidayo Olusanya both fo 9, Alh. Yusuf Close, Agidingbi Lagos, two of the children of the said deceased. 43. Mr Ayokunmi Ilo of 7, Raji Street, Papa Ashafa Lagos and Mrs Bunmi Akindele of 20, Adeniji Street, Orile Agege, Lagos the only child and sister respectively of the said deceased. 44. John F.Koroyin and Stella Akoroyin both fo 60, Adejiyan Street, Amukoko Lagos two of the children of the said deceased. 45. Racheal A. Adeleye Richard Adeleye and Adeleke O. Adeleye all of 3, Victory Divine Ave.Surulere, Lagos widow and two of the children respectively of the said deceased. 46. Monyei Grace and Monyei Isreal both of 35, John Ebu Street, Isawo Ikorodu, Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased. 47. Mrs Nnenna Okoro of 43, Ikosi Road, Ketu and Nwaeze Nwani of 22, Oloruntosi Street, Mushin, Lagos, widow and brother respectively of the said deceased. 48. Mrs Mary Bello, Miss Ayomide Bello and Mr Isiaka Bello all of Nig. Army Cant. Barracks Ikeja Lagos, widow and two of the children respectively of the said deceased. 49. Solomon Atala, Olayinka Atala and Oshadiya Titilayo all of 5, Odunlami Close, Ijaiye Ojokoro Lagos, widower , one of the children and sister respectively of the said deceased. 50. Mohammed Zibiri Elelewo Port Harcourt and Fidelis Eshiekhala of 6, Lawani Street, Surulere, Lagos two brother of the said deceased. 51. Kafayat Ogidan, Sufianu Ogidan and Ahmed Ogidan all of 14, Rasaki Street, Aboru, Ipaja, Lagos, two of the children of the said deceased 52. Felicia Ademosun and Aderonke Ademosun both fo 3, Olawaiye Street, Ikeja, Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased. 53. Mrs Margret Ejokpaghu , Ugo Hosanna Omoghene and Mr Lucky Torogiwa all of 14, Jacob Adeleye Street, Itire , Lagos, widow , one of the children and sister respectively of the said deceased. 54. Mrs Monica Chioma Osueke and Vincent Chuka Osueke both fo 24, Araromi Street, Bariga , Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased. 55. Mr Solomon Akinjare Akinro of Plot 25, Kingdom Way Gemade Estate Ipaja, Lagos and Dr Joseph Duro Olaiye of 12, Agbaoku Street, Opebi Ikeja, widower and cousin respectively of the said deceased. 56. Beribatu Anthony Nowei and Beribatu Bebesa Santos both of Blk X Flat 1, Satellite Police Quarters, Satellite Town, Lagos. two of the children of the said deceased. 57. Iyanotu Adeniji of 32, Moshalasi Sango and Muraino Adeniji of 12, Daniel Ajayi Sango ,two of the children of the said deceased. 58. Olufunmike Fausat Olaiya and Oluwakemi Fatimat Ibitoye both of 711 Road, D Close, H 2 Festac Town, Lagos, two of the children of the said deceased. 59. Oribhabor Rosemary, Oribhabor confidence and Orbhabor Joshua both of New Foundation Badagry, Oko Afo , widow and two of the children respectively of the said deceased. 60. Ezendu Ifeanyi and Ikeanyi Ifeoma Grace both of 55, Ebute Igbogbo Road, Ikorodu, Lagos, two of the children of the said deceased. 61. Mulikat Olaniyan and Temitope Rashidat Olaniyan both fo 19, Okejide Street, Ejigbo, Lagos, mother and sister respectively of the said deceased. 62. Mrs Grace Ngozi Okelue and Miss Lee Chumuanya Okelue both of 3, Otasunmi Street, off Ifoshi Road, Iyana Ejigbo, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased. 63. Olayiwola Banwo of 1102-77 Rochampton Avenue, Toronto, Ontario M4P 3B8 64. Kate Amarachi Echebiri and Kingsley Echebiri both of No. 1, Odumakalu Street, River Estate, Ojodu Berger, Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased. 65. Ibobo Simon, Elizabeth Nti, Rose Nti and Ibobo Peter all of 8, Nurudeen Street, Ojo Barrack Ojo, widow and three of the children respectively of the said deceased. 66. Mrs Felicia Ogunsola and Ayotunde Ogunsola both of Blk 41, Flat 5, Iponri Estate, Surulere, Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased. 67. Dr Gbemisola Adewunmi Agbelusi and Mayowa Opeyemi Agbelusi both of 2, Abdul-Attah Road, Unilag Staff Quarters Akoka , widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased. 68. Mrs Emaruah Rachael Ofuoma and Mr Okwovokotu Felix Ofuoma both of 8, Ofuoma Street, Odan Ishesi , Off Badagry Express way , widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased. 69. Temiola Adenike, Temiola Adelowo, Temiola Adedoyin Paul and Temiola Olorunyomi all of 33, Omolere Ikuomola Street, Iloro Agege, four of the children of the said deceased. 70. Dr Chukwudi Anadebe and Mr Amaechi Anadebe both of 10, Akinlolu Street, Iju Lagos, two of the children of the said deceased. 71. Mr Samuel Sunday Ashaka and Mr Ayotunde Tolulope Ashaka both of 18, Akinrosoye Street, Egbe , father and brother respectively of the said deceased. 72. Mrs Silifat Ayoka Akerele of 58, Ibeshe Road, Ikorodu, Pastor Abiodun Aina, Pastor Lanre Aina and Mr Babasola Ayodeji Adedeji Akerele all of 6, Adeniji Street, Surulere, Lagos, four grand children of the said deceased. 73. Ms Oluwafemi Johnson , Mr Lanre Johnson and Mr Gbolahan Olutayo all of 26 Olutayo Avenue, Ago Palace Way Okota, Lagos, one of the children, brother and family friend respectively of the said deceased. 74. Kayode Onifade and Ayotunde Onifade both of 6, Modupe Street, Iju , widower and one of the children respectively of the said deceased. 75. Deaconess J.I.Ogunsanya and Ogunsanya Folorunso Giwa both of 40, St. Lucy Road, Off Adams Street, Lambe and Ogunsanya Oluwatoyin O. of Room 31, Block M2, NAF Base, PWD, Ikeja, widow and two of the children respectively of the said deceased. 76. Mrs Nike Aishat Isiaka and Mr Bolaji Abdul Samad Isiaka both of 6, Damilola Close, Ajegunle, Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased. 77. Bright Aikhegbe and Ms Ladi Okponobi both of 31,Tomi Williams Street, Abule Odu Egbeda, Lagos, widower and sister respectively of the said deceased. 78. Chidi O. Idika, Emmanuel O. Idika, Marshal O. Idika and Mercy O. Idika all of 6, Jacob Street, Akiode Ikeja, Lagos, widow and three of the children respectively of the said deceased.

THE NATION FRIDAY, JANUARY 20, 2012

NEWS NDLEA impounds 400kg cannabis From Chris Oji, Enugu

HE National Drugs Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Enugu State has made the highest single seizure of cannabis in the Southeast. Although the value was not stated, the command said it runs into millions of naira. The NDLEA State Commander, Anthony Ohanyere, said 400 kilogrammes of cannabis were impounded in EnuguEzike, Igboeze North Local Government. “Two persons Monday Audu and Monday Adejo from Kogi State were apprehended. “This is the highest single seizure in the state and one of the largest single seizures recorded in the Southeast since the drug war started,” he said. Ohanyere said the latest catch brought the total drug seizures made last year in the state to 653.948 kilogrammes. Last year, the command arrested 133 suspects, including five women. The command also arrested a blind suspect, Hassan Mohammed, from Borno State, who was found with 15.5 kilogrammes of cannabis at the cow market in Oji-River Local Government. Also, the command arrested a mother and her son, Chidera and Ngozi Agu from Amechi, Awkunanaw, Enugu South Local Government with cannabis cleverly packaged to look like ‘okpa’, a local bean cake delicacy. They were about supplying it to the inmates of Oji-River prisons when they were arrested. Another suspect, Sunday Ameh, was arrested with 25.9 kilogrammes of cannabis neatly packaged and concealed in food flasks.

PDP ward congresses begin

HE Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Cross River State is to conduct ward congresses in the 18 local governments. Chairman, Ad Hoc Committee for Election of Special Delegates, Mohammed Wakil, urged party officials at the wards to be transparent in conducting the congress. Wakil said national officials liaised with the PDP State Chairman and State Organising Secretary to pro-

From Nicholas Kalu, Calabar

vide electoral and returning officers for the congresses. He said the distribution of the materials at the party secretariat was open and called on the Independent Electoral Commission (INEC) and law enforcement officers to monitor the conduct of the congresses at the wards. The primary will take place on Monday between Governor Liyel Imoke and former PDP chairman, Soni Abang.

JTF arrests 81 suspects, destroys 108 illegal refineries T HE Joint Task Force (JTF), codenamed Operation Pulo Shield, in Rivers State arrested 36 kidnap suspects, 11 robbery suspects, 34 suspected crude oil thieves in the last one month. It destroyed 108 illegal refineries and rescued a kidnapped female corps member and her female visitor. The Commander, sectors 2 and 3, Brig.-Gen. Tukur Buratai, yesterday in Port Harcourt, the Rivers State capital, said 13 suspects were killed by security operatives during the period. Buratai, who is also the Commander of 2 Amphibious Brigade, Nigerian Army, Bori Camp, said

•Rescues kidnapped Corps member From Bisi Olaniyi, Port Harcourt

over 60 hoodlums were injured during exchange of gunfire with JTF operatives. He said six robbery and four kidnap attempts were foiled. The JTF commander said the Task Force lost two soldiers while four others were injured. Twenty kidnap victims were rescued during the period. The commander said the security outfit recovered

six vehicles, four speed boats, five AK-47 rifles, 26 short guns, two pump action guns and one pistol. Buratai lauded the government and people of Rivers State for their assistance to security agencies, which he said had led to effective crime control. The army commander also stated that security operatives yesterday rescued the kidnapped corps member and her visitor. The police had rescued a abducted male corps member, kidnapped on January

14 at Odagwa, Etche Local Government Area with the female corps member and her visitor. Buratai said the team also arrested some suspects. The commander noted that the hoodlums initially kidnapped three corps members and their visitor, but two of the corps members escaped. He stated that the two victims who escaped helped security agents in locating the hideout of the hoodlums. Buratai added that efforts were on to rescue a little girl, who was kidnapped in Bori, headquarters of Khana Local Government on January 14.

Oshiomhole slashes AAU fees

DO State Governor Adams Oshiomhole yesterday announced some palliative measures to cushion the effect of the fuel subsidy removal by the Federal Government. Among the measures are reduction in the tuition fee of the Ambrose Alli University (AAU), free medical treatment for pensioners and persons who are 70 and above, abolition of fees paid in all the Senior Secondary Schools and free eye treatment, including glasses for persons who are 60 and above. Oshiomhole, who spoke in

From Osagie Otabor, Benin

a state wide broadcast, reduced the fees of regular students of AAU by N15,000 and those of part-time students by N5,000. With this, a Social Science student who paid N50,000 will now pay N35,000. A science student who paid N60,000 will now pay N45,000. He said the AAU management would not lose any revenue as the government would pay for the shortfall. The governor directed

management of the Edo Transport Services to introduce a 50 per cent subsidy on transport fares for primary and secondary school pupils in uniform. “I am convinced that the process of rebuilding this trust requires that we take concrete, visible and measurable steps aimed at creatively using the accruing revenue to deliver the greatest good to the greatest number of our people in the shortest possible time. “I am deeply gratified by the appreciation of my position and role in the resolution of the crisis arising

•Oshiomhole

from the subsidy reduction. For me, there are no easy solutions to the problems that confront our nation.”

THE NATION FRIDAY, JANUARY 20, 2012

NEWS ‘Deployment of troops in Lagos, Kano undemocratic’

GROUP, Afonja Descendants Union (ADU), has described the Federal Government’s deployment of soldiers in Lagos, Kano and other states of the country as undemocratic. The group also accused the government of deploying the soldiers in the areas “as “occupational troops” on the pretext of preventing “ambitious” Nigerians from hijacking the direction of the protest against oil subsidy removal. In a statement in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital, ADU President, Comrade Abdulkarim Olola-Kasum, urged the Fed-

From Adekunle Jimoh, Ilorin

eral Government to withdraw the soldiers since the nationwide protests against fuel subsidy removal has been suspended. Olola-Kasum condemned the continued retention of the troops in the areas, saying it was uncalled for. He said it is wrong to retain the troops in the areas, especially as they have more work to do in combating the Boko Haram group whose violence has put the security of the country in danger.

Body to challenge Edo PDP in court

GROUP, Concerned Edo Citizens, said yesterday that it was prepared to meet the Edo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in court over its role in the mobilisation, sponsorship and mastermind of the protest and subsequent violence in the state during last week’s strike over fuel subsidy. The group, in a statement signed by its legal adviser, Olushola Iyogun, said: “We challenge the PDP in Edo State to institute a legal action against us in court on the allegation and we shall appear to defend our claims and present inconvertible evidence both orally and documentary on how and when they stormed markets, urging them for a mass protest and civil disobedience against President Goodluck Jonathan and the state government.”

Diocese of Osun Anglican honours HE Diocese of Osun members Anglican Commun-

ion, Cathedral of All Saints, Balogun Agoro, Oshogbo will on January 21 confer titles on some members of the church. They are Chief E.A. Fabiyi, Engr Timothy Olasunkade

Oyediran, Mr. J.A. Oyeleke, Mrs. O.O. Odetoyinbo, Lady Evangelist G.B. Makanjuola and Mrs. S.A. Adejobi. The event commences at 11 a.m. in the cathedral auditorium.

‘Jonathan fighting corruption with subsidy probe’ E

CONOMIC and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) investigation of subsidy payments is an indication that President Goodluck Jonathan was prepared to eradicate corruption in the oil and gas sector. The probe, according to an official in the Presidency also shows that the president is not prepared to shield anybody. The source who does not want to be named also said the fraud revealed by KPMG report predates Jonathan’s administration. By inviting EFCC to investigate all subsidy payments, the source said President Jonathan “has demonstrated that he is determined to clean the oil and gas sector and that is why he went ahead to authorise the EFCC to probe those responsible for the subsidy fraud”. On the KMPG audit, the source said the audit was commissioned by Olusegun Aganga, the then minister of finance, following the controversies that trailed the subsidy pay-

From Vincent Ikuomola, Abuja

ment. KMPG and Afe Afemike and Co were commissioned to carry out a forensic audit of Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) and the Petroleum Products Pricing Regulatory Agency (PPPRA) between 2007 and 2009. “If you look at the report critically, the auditors were specifically directed to probe the period between 2007 to 2009. This time, President Jonathan was not the president, Mrs. Dieziani AlisonMadueke was not the petroleum minister and Austen Oniwon was not the group managing director of NNPC,” the source explained. Some of the findings of the KPMG audit report were that “production /commercial allowable volumes have been observed to consistently exceed Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries

(OPEC) quota of 1,673,000 BBL/D for the six month period (April to September 2010)”, the audit panel also recommended a “Proactively initiate steps with OPEC to review and agree/ update current quota”. The report also revealed that “non-compliance with OPEC quotas by OPEC countries could exert a downward pull on crude oil prices which results in reduced revenues for the government”, adding that Nigeria may be “fined for exceeding OPEC quota” and could “negatively impact on the country’s oil/gas reserves projections and plans.” The auditors were very critical of the NNPC’s “poor data management” because there was “no centralised location for storing electronic copies of historical production and allocation data”, instead “the information are stored on personnel (individual) worksta-

tions” which may have resulted in the “potential loss of historical production information in event of staff turnover or system failure.” On Pricing, the report observed “variances in crude sales price especially with regards to domestic sales to PPMC. Crude sales to NNPC were at lower prices (lower than approved Official Selling Price) than to other off-takers which is not in compliance with Government’s directive”, adding that the development was in “potential conflict of interest with NNPC’s Crude Oil Marketing Department (COMD), acting as agent to Government and being under NNPC who is also its customer.” The report revealed further that “NNPC is invoiced in US$ for domestic crude allocations but is expected to remit the equivalent naira value to the Federation Account. However we observed that exchange rates used by NNPC were lower than the average exchange rates published by the CBN during the review period.”

Forum condemns attacks on Petroleum Minister

GROUP, the South South Youth Leaders Forum, has condemned a call by Senator Gbenga Obadara on the Minister of Petroleum, Mrs. Diezani Alison-Madueke , to resign. Addressing reporters yesterday in Abuja, spokesman of the group, Amachree Odiedim, a lawyer, said: “It is with deep concern that we have called on you this

morning to address issues of personal attacks on the person of the Hon. Minister of Petroleum, Mrs. Alison-Madueke and a situation where those living in Glass Houses now throw stones.” Odiedim, who is also the chairman of the group said, “We hereby strongly and totally condemn a statement making the rounds and attributed to Senator Obadara, calling for the resignation or

redeployment of the Petroleum Minister, sequel to her call on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to investigate the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC). “This is a country where positive steps are not commended, otherwise we expect that Nigerians should praise Mrs. Alison-Madueke for having the courage to personally write and invite

the anti-graft agency (EFCC) to visit, probe and investigate her ministry. “Logically, we expect that those badly affected by the removal of petrol subsidy will turn around to attack the Petroleum Minister for an economic policy taken by the Federal Government. However, we did not contemplate that those who live in Glass Houses will throw stones.

THE NATION FRIDAY, JANUARY 20, 2012

S/N

NAMES OF THE DECEASED PERSON:

1. Alhaji Musafau Safariyu (Otherwise known as Musafau Safiriyu Oloyede) late of Plot 8, Flat 2, Finance Road, Mardge Wood Estate, Oko Oba, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 30th day of July, 2011 at Ifako Lagos. 2. Tajudeen Oseni (Otherwise known as Oseni Taju) late of 1, Oke Lane, Bariga, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 10th day of October, 2009 at Lagos. 3. Mr Thomas Oladele Oladipo (Otherwise known as Mr T.O.Oladipo) late of No. 31, Oduguwa Street, Bariga Lagos State deceased who died intestate on the 26th day of May, 2011. 4. Mr Ohiaru Felix, late of 2, Bakare Babatunde Street, Odewale Agbado, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 5th day of July, 2009 at Lagos. 5. Ogbonna Ifeanyi (Otherwise known as Franklin Ifeanyi Ogbonna) late of 6, Orisa Junction Imude, Off Shibiri Ojo Local Government Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 12th day of May, 2010 at Lagos. 6. Okunola Risikat Abolanle late of 35, Sodimu Street, Somolu Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 8th day of September, 2009 at Lagos. 7. Alice Erete (Otherwise known as Alice Erete J.) late of 14, Okota Road, Off Isolo, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 14th day of October, 1997 at Calabar. 8. Mr Salisu Moronfolu Adekunle late of No. 1 Plot 189 Ekundayo Babaniji Street, Ajao Estate, deceased who died intestate on the 21st day of September, 2006 at Ogun State. 9. Mr Olusanya Olusina Olusegun late of Block 130, Flat 5, Abesan Estate, Ipaja, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 6th day of May, 2011 at Lagos. 10.John Nwakanjo Isreal (Otherwise known as John Onwukanjo Isreal late of 1 , Emilions Titiloye Close, Amukoko, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 19th day of June, 2010 at Lagos. 11. Akinbami Oluwatoyin late of 6, Alaba Close, Iju, Ishaga, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 3rd day of October, 2010 at Lagos. 12. Akinwunmi Idowu Coker late of 41/43 Odaliki Street, Ebute Metta West deceased who died intestate on the 16th day of November, 2000 at Ebute Metta. 13. Aminu Imuraina late of 16, Laditoun Street, Iju Railway Station deceased who died intestate on the 29th day of September, 2011 at Lagos. 14. Mr Olusegun Abayomi Bola late of 25, Folarin Street, Magodo deceased who died intestate on the 6th day of June, 2011 at Lagos. 15. Livinus Ugochukwu (Otherwise known as Afam Ugochukwu and Livinus Afam Ugochukwu) late of 60, Joseph Lambo Street, Ebute Metta (West) Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 30th day of October, 2009 at Lagos. 16. Timothy Adebola Adekunle (Otherwise known as Timothy Adekunle ) late of 27A, Shittu Animashaun Street, Gbagada, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 20th day of October, 1992 at Manchester (U.K). 17. Patrick Ugwa (Otherwise known as Mr Ugwa Patrick) late of 50/56, Old Alaba Road, Badagry Expressway Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 4th day of September, 2010. 18. Chief Samson Ekiobomune Polo (Otherwise known as Polo Samson Ekiobomune) late of 27, Ivienagbor Street, Ojodu, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 25th day of July, 2006 at Adeyemi Hospital, Lagos. 19. Uchendu Anua (Otherwise known as Mr Anua Uchendu) late of FHA Abesan II Estate, House 10, Road 22, OJokoro, Lagos, Abeokuta Expressway, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 20th day of December, 2010 at Ogun State General Hospital. 20. Chief Felix Gbadesere Olu Majayi (Otherwise known as Mr Majayi Felix Olu and Olumajayi Felix) late of 6, Olumajayi Street, Ikorodu, Lagos State deceased who died intestate on the 13th day of December, 2010 at Lagos. 21. Zubair Abdul Hakeem Shola (Otherwise known as Mr Zubair Abdul-Hakeem Shola) late of 16, Ivienagbor Street, Ojodu Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 24th day of March, 2011 at Keffi Nasarawa State. 22. Mr Ojemeh Ebenezer Okhiria (Otherwise known as Ojemeh Ebenezer) late of 9, Akin Close , Off Giwa Bus Stop, Oke Aro Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 31st day of March, 2010 at Lagos. 23. Mr Nnochiri Donatus (Otherwise known as Mr Nnochiri E. Donatus and Donatus E.Nnochiri) late of 27, Solomon Bankole Street, Akowonjo, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 21st day of October, 2010. 24. Mr Caleb Bulus (Otherwise known as Mr Bulus Caleb) late of Block 26, Room 6, Mobile Police Barracks Idimu, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 27th day of September, 2010 at St. Stephen Hospital, Ikeja. 25. Noahdeen Shodehinde Alliyu (Otherwise known as Noahdeen Shodeinde Aliyu and Noahdeen Shodehinde) late of 6, Berekete Quarters, Badagry, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 10th day of June, 2010 at General Hospital Agege. 26. Rev./Pastor Joseph Olayinka Adeyanju (Otherwise known as Revd. Joseph O. Adeyanju) late of No. 1, Missionary Street, AIT Road, Alagbado, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 11th day of October,2009 at Afonja Specialist Hospital Abeokuta. 27. Mr Philip Nwange (Otherwise known as Mr Nwange Ekiri) late of W3 Senior Rate Quarters Navy Town, Ojo, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 10th day of March, 2005 at Lagos. 28. Mrs Codelia Ijeoma Modi (Otherwise known as Mrs Ijeoma Modi) late of 1, Olomowewe Street, Mushin, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 10th day of June, 2011 at Lagos. 29. Mrs Maria Apeke Bello (Otherwise known as Mrs Maria Bello and Mrs M.A.Bello) late of No. 4, Alh. Yaya Lane Fatade Ajelenwa Baruwa Ipaja, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 4th day of April, 2010 at Aanu Medical Centre. 30. Agbabirizu Edna late of No. 11, Fatusi Street, Ejigbo, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 29th day of August, 2007 at Gbagada General Hospital. 31. Samson Idris Garba (Otherwise known as Idris Samson) late of 14/16 Farinde Street, Agege, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 18th day of February, 2010 at Lagos. 32. Chief Alaba Oluwole Onakomaya, (Otherwise knowna s Alaba Oluwole Onakomaya) late of 1, Onakomaya Street, Alapere Ketu, Lagos State deceased who died intestate on the 15th day of March, 2011 at Lagos. 33. Adamu Oche Yusuf (Otherwise known as 40907 S/G Adamu Oche Yusuf ) late of 27, Akinshola Street, Iyana Ipaja, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 8th day of April, 2010 at Lagos. 34. Solomon Adeyemi (Otherwise known as MWO (Rtd) Solomon Adeyemi) late of 17, Bolakuyoro , Street, Agbado, Ijaiye ,Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 8th day of January, 2010 at Lagos. 35. Okesiji Rasaki Adelodun late of 2, Adio Shomade Street, Papa-Ajao , deceased who died intestate on the 28th day of April, 2009 36. Peter Chikobi Emeka late of No. 14, Asiriakofa Street, Aguda Surulere, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 9th day of September, 2010 at Lagos. 37. Veronica Ulo Ekeh (Mrs) late of 13, Osho Drive Olodi Apapa, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 25th day of May, 2009 at Patol Medical Centre Apapa, Lagos. 38. Etuk John Bassey (Otherwise known as Etuk Bassey John) late of 11, Amodu Street, Itire Surulere, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 24th day of March, 2010 at Lagos. 39. Alhaji Sule Kareem Adeniyi (Otherwise known as Alh. Sule Kareem Adeniyi) late of 62, Edagbeja Street, Daleko Ejigbo Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 23rd day of December, 2009 at Lagos. 40. Lamidi Yusuf Abiola (Otherwise known as Lamidi Abiola Yusuf) late of 25, Daramola Street, Egbeda, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 21st day of June, 2008 at Awojobi Clinic Eruwa Oyo State. 41. Anthonia Adoga late of 5, Odunlade Street, Shomolu, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 7th day of January, 2009 at I.D.H. Yaba. 42. PCF/NO 393996 Kibenini Tonibor (Otherwise known as Kibemini Tonibor) late of P.T.F. Block 12, Flat 1, Nigerian Army Cantonment deceased who died intestate on the 17th day of November, 2010. 43. Mr Adeola Ojo (Adisa) (Otherwise known as Mr Adeola Ojo and Adisa) late of 50, Tapa Street, Lagos, Island Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 18th day of September, 2010. 44. Mathew Maxwell Ajala (Otherwise known as Mr Mathew M. Ajala) late of No. 19, Bolarin Street, Ikotun Egbe Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 26th day of November, 2010. 45. Mr Adegoke Ibrahim Atunde (Otherwise known as Adegoke Ibrahim) late of 2, Igbojuwo Street, Itire, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 16th day of July, 2008 at Lagos State Teaching Hospital (Luth) 46. Otunba Oriola Akinola Akinkoye late of 6, Gbangba Street, Ilasamaja Lagos , Lagos State of Nigeria deceased who died intestate on the 18th day of September, 1995 at University College Hospital Ibadan. 47. Pa Amos Adenuga Okeowo late of 7, Abeokuta Street, Mafoluku Oshodi, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 23rd day of December, 2004. 48. Mrs Odeyemi Bolatito (Otherwise known as Odeyemi Bolatito) late of 20, Jay Momoh Street, Ajao Estate Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 18th day of December, 2010 at Lagos. 49. Chief Dr David Faybian Ejikeme Obianyor (Otherwise known as Dr Dave Obianyor and David Faybian Ejikeme Obianyor) late of Block 60A, Diamond Close, Raji Rasaki Estate, Mile 2, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 31st day of March, 2010. 50. Okechukwu F. Ekeopara (Otherwise known as Okechukwu Francis Ekeopara) late of CBN Estate Block C3 Flat 51, Satelite Town, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 20th day of November, 2000 at Lagos. 51. Uwaka Celestina late of 15, Fadahunsi Street, Ijesha Surulere, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 20th day of November, 2010 at Optimal Specialist Hospital. 52. Kingsley Chijoke Abosi (Otherwise known as Mr Abosi Kingsley ) late of No. 1, Alli Street, Ira Quarters, Ojo, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 18th day of April, 2011 at Macfan Medical Center, Lagos. 53. Akinola Sunday (Elder) (Otherwise known as Elder Akinola Sunday Oyebolu) late of 16, Buyide Avenue, Agbado-Ijaiye Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 11th day of April, 2011. 54. Mr Olumodeji Babatunde Mwo (Otherwise known as Mr Olumodeji Babatunde) late of 25, Taiwo Ajala Street, Abule Egba, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 25th day of June, 2010 at Abule Egba. 55. Alhaji Bello Karim Gbadebo (Otherwise known as Karim Gbadebo Bello and Karim Gbadebo Belo) late of 8, Olorogun Street, Isale Eko deceased who died intestate on the 5th day of May, 1990 at Lagos. 56. Chinyereugo Sunday (Otherwise known as Mr Sunday Chinyereugo) late of 85, Liasu Road, Egbe, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 10th day of March, 2011 at Uzoma Clinic , Egbe Lagos. 57. Mr Obinna Ignatius Anaele late of New 86, Lawanson Road, Surulere, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 17th day of September, 2011 at Imo State. 58. Mr Uduji Chiemeka Manasseh (Otherwise known as Uduji Chiemeka) late of 26A, Abiodun Sabojo Street, Agidingbi Street, Ikeja deceased who died intestate on the 1st day of October, 2009 at Lagos. 59. Joseph Chinedu Nwabuogor (Otherwise known as Mr Nwabuogor Chinedu Joseph) late of 5, Adebisi Adedeji Street, Sabo, Ajangbadi Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 20th day of March, 2001 at Lagos. 60. Professor Alfred Ebrukevbe Jarikre late of 27, Arolawun Street, Onipanu Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 11th day of June, 2009 at Warri Delta State. 61. Adedigba Mary late of 2, Owokoniran Street, Agbado Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 21st day of April, 2011 at Lagos. 62. Alhaja Yetunde Kazeem late of No. 1 , Oni Kewura Street, Egbe Ikotun, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 1st day of December, 2002 at Oboboks Hospital, Oke Odo. 63. Mr James Afolayan late of 231 Iju Water Corporation Iju Road, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 27th day of May, 2011 at Edo State. 64. Mr George Abiodun (Otherwise known as George) late of 21 Markurdi Street, Ebute Metta, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 4th day of March, 2011 at Lagos. 65. Azagba Alexander late of 33 Babani Street, Ajegunle Apapa, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 30th day of June, 2011 at Lagos. 66. Sunday Akpan Udosen (Otherwise known as Mr Sunday A. Udosen) late of 13, Olusoji Shofoluwe Street, Mafoluku Oshodi, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 5th day of August, 2005 at Lagos. 67. Mr Ogunbona Dauda Akanji (Otherwise known as Mr Dauda Ogunbona ) late of 24, Welder Street, Agbelekale Abule Egba, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 26th day of September, 2010 at Abule Egba. 68. Mr Olanrenwaju T. Coker (Otherwise known as Toyin and Mr Olanrewaju Coker) late of 1, Olasonde Street, Papa Ajao , Mushin, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 30th day of March, 2008 at Lagos. 69. Pa Funso Bola Adebowale (Otherwise known as Pa Funso B. Adebowale) late of 35, Bawala Street, Pedro Shomolu, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 15th day of February, 2011 at Akute Lagos. 70. Ogunyemi Olawale Oluwafemi late of 7, Victoria Street, Ojota, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 2nd day of October, 2011 at Lagos. 71. Mr Babajide Hammed Kesington (Otherwise known as Mr Keshinton Ahmed) late of Block 11, Flat 15, LSDPC Quarters Ogba, Ikeja, Lagos State, deceased who died intestate on the 17th day of July, 2011 at LASUTH , Lagos State. 72. Chief James Wilson Okuweh (Otherwise known as Chief James Wilson Okawe) late of 63, Bale Aiyetoro Ajegunle, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 27th day of August, 1994 at Lagos. 73. Pastor Samuel Sunday Jemigbon (Otherwise known as Pastor Samuel Sunday Jemgbon) late of The Apostolic Church Head Quarters Ketu, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 17th day of June, 2009 at Lagos. 74. Prince Onowenerhi Ejaeta Edward (Otherwise known as Prince Ejaeta Onowenerhi) late of 5, Daniel Akakpo Street, Okemoro Isashi, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 23rd day of June, 2008 at Lagos. 75. Mr Orija Alfred Kariunwi (Otherwise known as Orija Alfred Kariumwi) late of No. 1, Jacob Sonoola Street, Oke-Ira Ogba, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 30th day of June, 2011 at Lister Medical Center, Ikeja , Lagos State. 76. Mr Saibu Nicholas (Otherwise known as Shuaibu Nicholas) late of 32, Chris Oladuni Street, Ejigbo, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 4th day of February, 2011 at Lagos. 77. Pa Olutayo Gilbert Oladele late of 17, Folarin Street, Papa Ajao , Mushin, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 2nd day of January, 1982 at Lagos. 78. Raji Muhideen Muyibat late of House 26, A Street, Federal Low Cost Housing Estate, Badagry, deceased who died intestate on the 20th day of February, 2011 at General Hospital, Badagry.

G.A SAFARI (MR.) PROBATE REGISTRAR

August 8, 1

NAMES OF APPLICANT APPLYING FOR THE GRANT

1. Hajia Rilwat Olayemi Safiriyu, Alhaja Bimbo Safiriyu, Hajia Toyibat Safiriyu and Lukman M. Safiriyu all of Plot 8, Flat 2, Finance Road, Mardge Wood Estate, Oko Oba, Lagos, three of the widows and one of the children respectively of the said deceased. 2. Mrs Nusirat Oseni, Kafayat Oseni and Nurudeen Oseni all of 1, Oke Lane Bariga, Lagos, widow and two children respectively of the said deceased. 3. Mrs Yetunde Okusanya of No. 31, Oduguwa Street, Bariga, Mr Olusesan Oladipo of No. 43, Akinromola Street, Bariga, and Mr Olufemi Oladipo of No. 8, Akintunde Street, Bariga, three of the children of the said deceased. 4. Bridget Ohiaru, Innocent Ohiaru and Nneka Ohiaru all of 2, Bakare Babatunde Street, Agbado, Lagos, widow and two of the children respectively of the said deceased. 5. Ijeoma Ogbonna and Judith Obidi both of 6, Orisa Junction Imude, Off Shibiri , Ojo Local Government Lagos, widow and sister respectively of the sai deceased. 6. Okunola Segun Surajudeen and Okunola Oluwatoyin Sadia both of 40, Ore ofe Street, Agiliti Phase II Mile 12, Lagos, brother and sister respectively of the said deceased. 7. Eyo Ikpeme Erete and Grace Onoyom Odofodo both of 14, Okota Road, Off Isolo Lagos, two children of the said deceased. 8. Adekunle Omotunde and Adekunle Ademola both of No. 1, Plot 189, Ekundayo Babaniji Street, Ajao Estate, two of the children of the said deceased. 9. Mrs Taiwo Olusanya, Miss Oluranti Olusanya and Master Olufemi Olusanya all of Block 130, Flat 5, Abesan Estate, Ipaja, Lagos, widow and two of the children respectively of the said deceased. 10. Ngozi John and Kelechi John both of 1, Emilious Titiloye Close Amukoko Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased. 11. Adegboye Omotayo, of 18, Ayofe Adeniyi Street, Ipaja, Lagos, Dada Omolade and Akinbami Omotola both of 6, Alaba Close, Iju Ishaga, Lagos, three of the children of the said deceased. 12. Mrs Afolabi Ibisomi Fatusin of 1, Folasade Ajayi Street, Anthony, Professor Akitoye Olusegun Coker of D3A, Unilag Campus Akoka, Babatunde Ayodeji Coker of 2, Akinbaruwa Street, Atunrase Surulere and Victor Akinola Coker of 41/43, Odaliki Street, Ebute Metta, Lagos, four of the children of the said deceased. 13. Aminu Silifat and Aminu Rasheedat both of 16, Laditoun Street, Iju, Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased. 14. Mrs Faith Etuaje and Mr Babajide Bola both fo 25, Folarin Street, Magodo widow and brother respectively of the said deceased. 15. Rita Ugochukwu of 60, Joseph lambo Street, Ebute Metta (West) and Jonathan Ugochukwu of 24, Church Street, Ebute Metta (East) widow and brother respectively of the said deceased. 16. Olufemi Olusegun Adekunle of 27A, Shittu Animashaun Street, Gbagada, Lagos and Olubunmi Ononiwu of 4, Ilumo Street, Surulere, Lagos, two of the children of the said deceased. 17. Margareth Ugwa, Gerald Ikechukwu Ugwa and Celestine Obina Ugwa all of 50/56 Old Alaba Road, Badagry Express way, Lagos, widow and two children respectively of the said deceased. 18. Sunday Ekiyokekeme Polo and Anthony Ebikabowei Polo both of 44/46, Adegbola Street, Anifowoshe Ikeja, Lagos, two children of the said deceased. 19. Uchendu Ikenna Sunday and Uchendu Ugomma Patience both of FHA Abesan II Estate, House 10 Road, 22, Ojokoro , Lagos, Abeokuta Expressway, Lagos, two of the children of the said deceased. 20. Mr Anthony Olusegun Majayi, Mrs Veronica Olujumoke Adefuye and Mr Felix Olukunle Majayi (Jnr) all of 6, Olumajayi Street, Ikorodu, Lagos, three of the children of the said deceased. 21. Gbemisola F.Zubair of 16, Ivienagbor Street, Ojodu, Lagos and Abdul Lateef Kunle Suberu of Block 27, Flat 1, Government Quarters Ogba, Lagos, widow and brother respectively of the said deceased. 22. Mrs Regina Omonigho Ojemeh of 9, Akin Close, Off Giwa Bus Stop, Oke Aro, Lagos, and Mr Osifor Sylvanus Ojemeh of 14, Taiwo Street, Off Ipaja Road, Ipaja, Lagos, widow and cousin respectively of the said deceased. 23. Mrs Nnochiri Chizoba and Nnochiri Chinonso both of 27, Solomon Bankole Street, Akowonjo Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased. 24. Mrs Rebecca Caleb and Mr Mathew Bulus both of Block 26, Room 6, Mobile Police Barracks Idimu, Lagos, widow and brother respectively of the said deceased . 25. Rashidat Garba (Mrs), Bamidele Alliyu Shehu Alliyu and Victoria Dibite (Mrs) all of 1A, Powerline, Oko Oba, Agege, Lagos, four of the children of the said deceased. 26. Pastor Solomon Abayomi Adeyanju , Pastor Samuel Adetunji Adeyanju and Mrs Oluwatoyin Esther Ogebule all of No. 1, Missionary Street, AIT Road, Alagbado, Lagos, three of the children of the said deceased. 27. Mrs Romina Franca Nwange and Mr Nduka Nwange both of W3 Senior Rate Quarters Navy Town, Ojo, Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased . 28. Mr Martin Modi and Mr Ekere Ajana both of 1, Olomowewe Street, Mushin, Lagos, widow and brother respectively of the said deceased. 29. Ganiyu Olanrewaju Bello (Mrs), Olayiwola Olanrewaju Bello both of No. 4, Alh. Yaya Lane, Fatade Baruwa and Lawrence Oluwaseyi Oladejo of No. 5, Alokolaro Street, Ikorodu, Lagos, widow and two of the children respectively of the said deceased. 30. Mr Agbabirizu Aloysius and Agbabirizu Emmanuel both of No. 11, Fatusi Street, Ejigbo, widower and one of the children respectively of the said deceased. 31. Mrs Oluwakemi idris, Mr Idris Garba and Mrs Indian Idris Garba all of 14/16 Farinde Street, Agege, Lagos, widow, father and mother respectively of the said deceased. 32. Ademolu A. Onakomaya and Olugbenga Ayo Onakomaya both of 1, Onakomaya Street, Alapere Ketu, Lagos, two of the children of the said deceased. 33. Mrs Ojochide Dorcas Adamu of 27, Akinshola Street, Iyana Ipaja, and Mr Nocholas I. Oyihoma of No. 4, Omole Street, Egbeda, Lagos, widow and uncle respectively of the said deceased. 34. Mrs Funmilayo Solomon Adeyemi and Mr Adetola Solomon Adeyemi both of 17, Bolakuyoro Street, Agbado, Ijaiye, Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased. 35. Okesiji Risikat and Okesiji Lateefat both fo 2, Adio Shomade Street, Two sisters of the said deceased. 36. Felicia I. Chikobi and Chinedu Chikobi both of 14, Asiriakofa Street, Aguda Surulere, Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased. 37. Mr Eric Eke , Daniel Eke both of 13, Osho Drive, Olodi Apapa, Lagos and Oneme Oliseh of 125, Idewu Street, Olodi Apapa, Lagos, widower, brother and brother â&#x20AC;&#x201C;in-law respectively of the said deceased. 38. Mrs Mercy Bassey Etuk and Miss Patience Bassey Etuk both of 11, Amodu Street, Itire, Surulere, Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased. 39. Sule Waheed Olanrewaju and Sule Ismail Olayinka both of 62, Edagbeja Street, Daleko Ejigbo, Lagos, two of the children of the said deceased. 40. Mrs Fausat Abike Lamidi and Lamidi Oluranti Tawa both of 25, Daramola Street, Egbeda, Lagos, mother and sister respectively of the said deceased. 41. Fedelis Adegbo of No. 5, Odunlade Street, Shomolu, Lagos, the only child of the said deceased. 42. Mrs Ebi Tonibor and Mr Tonibor Ayefimini both of PTF Block 12, Flat 1, Nigerian Army Cantonment Ojo, Lagos, widow and brother respectively of the said deceased. 43. Isiaka Adeola Ojo and Muritala Adeola Ojo both of 50, Tapa Street, Lagos Island, one of the children and nephew respectively of the said deceased. 44. Mrs Dorcas Tinuola Ajala and Mr Olabode Peter Ajala both of No. 19, Bolarin Street, Ikotun Egbe, Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased. 45. Adegoke Kazeem of 28, Anjorin Street, Aguda, Lagos, and Adegoke Wasiu of 2, Igbojuwo Street, Itire, Lagos ,two of the children of the said deceased. 46. Dr Olugbemi Akinkoye and Mr Abiodun Odunayo Akinkoye both of 20, Adebajo Street, Kongi Area, Ibadan Oyo State of Nigeria. 47. Mr Okeowo Ademola Adeyinka and Dupe Odunowo both of 7, Abeokuta Street, Mafoluku, Oshodi, Lagos, one of the children and sister respectively of the said deceased. 48. Prince Toyin Odeyemi of 20, Jay Momoh Street, Ajao Estate, Lagos and Mr Tosin Ajayi of 17B, Fatai Animashaun Street, Magodo Lagos, widower and brother respectively of the said deceased. 49. Mrs Obiagele Regina Obianyor and Mr Johannes Alban Kenechi Obianyor both of Block 60A, Diamond Close, Raji Rasaki Estate, Mile 2, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased. 50. Francis O. Ekeopara, Franklyn C. Ekeopara and Marylyn C. Ekeopara all of CBN Estate Block C3, Flat 51, Satelite Town, Lagos, three children of the said deceased. 51. Uwaka Eugene and Uwaka Ifeyinwa both of 15, Fadahunsi Street, Ijesha Surulere, Lagos, widower and one of the children respectively of the said deceased. 52. Mrs Florence E. Abosi of 3, Alli Street, Ira Ojo, Lagos, and Linna Ohanunsi of 29, Nosanmu Street, Ajegunle, Lagos, widow and sister respectively of the said deceased. 53. Akinola Olukunmi, Akinola James and Mrs Agbeke Akinola all of 16, Buyide Avenue Agbado-Ijaiye Lagos, widow and two of the children respectively of the said deceased. 54. Mrs Maria Olumodeji and Miss Omowunmi Olumodeji both of 25, Taiwo Ajala Street, Abule Egba, Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased. 55. Mr Olatunji Abiodun Bello, Mrs Idayat Abosede Okunuga (Nee Bello) and Mrs Anifat Oyindamola Alowolodun (Nee Bello) all of 8, Olorogun Street, Isale Eko Lagos, three children of the said deceased. 56. Blessing Chinyereugo and Ogechi Chinyereugo both of 85, Liasu Road, Egbe, Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased. 57. Mrs Obinna Celestina and Obinna Ikenna Stephen both of New 86, Lawanson Road, Surulere, Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased. 58. Ogechukwu Uduji and Samson Uduji both of 26A, Abiodun Sabojo Street, Agidingbi Street, Ikeja, widow and brother respectively of the said deceased. 59. Samuel Ekene Nwabuogor and Henry C. Nwabuogor both of 5, Adebisi Adedeji Street, Sabo Ajangbidi Lagos, two brothers of the said deceased. 60. Mrs Bolatito O. Jarikre and Mr Eferoghene O. Jarikre both of 27, Arolawun Street, Onipanu Lagos, widow and only child respectively of the said deceased. 61. Benjamin Adebanjo Adedigba and Samuel Adedigba both of 2, Owokoniran Street, Agbado, Lagos, widower and one of the children respectively of the said deceased. 62. Ademola Kazeem and Oluwaseun Kazeem both of 1, Onikewura Street, Egbe Ikotun Lagos, widower and one of the children respectively of the said deceased. 63. Mrs Nihinlola Afolayan of 231, Iju Water Works Iju Lagos, and Mrs Titilayo Kehinde (Nee Afolayan) of 7, Olugbede Idimu Pipeline Lagos, widow and sister respectively of the said deceased. 64. George Olayemi Anthonia and Ogunsinmirin Biola Elizabeth both of 21, Markurdi Street, Ebute Metta, Lagos, and Mr Ogunsinmirin Joseph Taiwo of 24, Adeleye Street, Sawmill Gbagada, Lagos, two of the children and brother respectively of the said deceased. 65. Mrs Azagba Rose and Mr Azagba David both of 33, Babani Street, Ajegunle, Apapa, Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased. 66. Eno Sunday Akpan Udosen and Mbuotidem Sunday both of 13, Olusoji Shofoluwe Street, Mafoluku Oshodi, Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased. 67. Ruth Adeosun and Rachael Adegbola both of 24, Welder Street , Abule Egba, two of the children of the said deceased 68. Mrs Adebola Oduolowu Coker of 6, Bawa-Allah Crescent, Akasoleri Ikorodu, Lagos and Ms Omolade O. Coker of 29B, Suenu Street, Surulere, Lagos, two sisters of the said deceased. 69. Mrs Modupe A. Adebowale and Mr Adebowale Adewale both of 35, Bawala Street, Pedro Shomolu, Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased. 70. Abosede Ogunyemi and Bunmi Ogunyemi both of 1, T.J. Close, Agbede Ikorodu Lagos State, two of the children of the said deceased. 71. Mrs Olubisi Kesington and Mr Saheed O. Fashola both of Block 11, Flat 15, LSDPC Quarters, Ogba, Ikeja, Lagos State , widow and brother respectively of the said deceased. 72. Mr Mike Honey Okuweh and Mr Charles Okuweh both of 63, Bale Aiyetoro Ajegunle, Lagos, two of the children of the said deceased. 73. Mrs Margaret Mary Olanrewaju Jemigbon, Mrs Roseline Funmilayo Tolorunleke, Mr Emmanuel Jemigbon and Mr Israel Jemigbon all of The Apostolic Church Head Quarters Olorunda Ketu, Lagos, widow and three of the children respectively of the said deceased. 74. Mrs Rosemary Ejaeta Onowenerhi, Ufuoma Ejaeta Onowenerhi and John Ejaeta Onowenerhi all of 5, Daniel Akakpo Street, Okemoro Isashi, Lagos, widow and two of the children respectively of the said deceased. 75. Mrs Patricia Iyabo Orija and Mr Oludayo Oriyomi Orija both of No. 1, Jacob Sonola Street, Oke-Ira, Ogba, Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased. 76. Mrs Philomina Saibu and Mr Ibrahim Saibu both of No. 32, Chris Oladuni Stret, Ejigbo, Lagos, widow and brother respectively of the said deceased. 77. Olubunmi Yetunde Akinyele and George Idowu Olutayo both of 17, Folarin Street, Papa Ajao Mushin, Lagos, two of the children of the said deceased. 78. Shehu Abdul Quadri Mohideen, Kudirat Raji and Ganiyu Oladapo Raji all of House 26, A Street, Federal Low Cost Housing Estate, Badagry, widower, sister and brother respectively of the said deceased

THE NATION FRIDAY, JANUARY 20, 2012

NEWS Police turn down SNG rally request By Jude Isiguzo

THE Lagos State Police Command has turned down the request by the Save Nigeria Group (SNG) to hold a peaceful protest at the Gani Fawehinmi Park, Ojota tomorrow. The group,in a letter requested the Commissioner of Police Mr. Yakubu Alkali to grant them permission to protest. Alkali, while turning down the request gave reasons of security instability in the state.

Honour for Senate President By Emmanuel Oladesu

SENATE President David Mark will receive the Nigeria National Hero of the Sixth Republic Award from the Centre for Governance, Policy Advocacy in Africa (CEGPAD) and African Stride International (ASI) in Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory, next month. He emerged winner of the award after defeating four nominees in a nationwide GSM Short Message Service (SMS) voting between July and August last year by representatives of the nongovernmental bodies. Country Project Director, Henry Ogunjumelo, told reporters in Lagos that eminent Nigerians, including former Head of State Gen. Yakubu Gowon, are expected at the ceremony where Ondo State Governor Segun Mimiko will deliver a lecture titled: “Building a new Nigeria: What role for Nigerian legislature?”.

Niger revokes contract for NYSC orientation camp

HE Niger State Government has revoked the contract for the construction of the new permanent site for the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) orientation camp. The revocation order followed a State Executive Council (EXCO) meeting yesterday in Minna, the state capital. The construction of the orientation camp, located in Paiko, Paikoro Local Government Area, was awarded in May, last year, with a sixmonth completion period. But it has not reached halfway when it was revoked.

•Establishes N67.6m renal dialysis centre From Jide Orintunsin, Minna

Justice Commissioner Bawa Wuse told reporters after the meeting that N42 million of N115,435,134 had been paid to the contactor, who has abandoned the site without completing the job. He said efforts by the government to get him back on site proved abortive. The commissioner said the contractor claimed that he had no financial ability to continue the work and that he would only return to site af-

ter further payment. Wuse said the demand is contrary to the terms of the contract. He said: “The Niger State Government has revoked the contract of the contractor engaged to build the NYSC permanent orientation camp in Paiko. The government has realised that the contractor does not have the financial strength to complete it. The government had earlier given him N42 million, as stated in the contract and, since he cannot complete the rest due to

Lagos seeks NRC’s co-operation on drainage expansion

HE Lagos State Government is seeking the cooperation of the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) to expand the drainage channels across the state. Commissioner for the Environment Tunji Bello spoke yesterday during an assessment tour of ongoing cleaning of drainage and construction of channels around Ikeja and Ifako Ijayie local government areas. Bello identified two major spots in the drainage as having challenges with the rail lines. He listed them as Elere collector drains and Shogunle -Oshodi system channels. The commissioner said consultations were ongoing between the state and the NRC management. He assured the people that the government will do all within its power to ensure the timely completion of the project.

By Miriam Ndikanwu

His words: “We are always in contact with the railway authority, the deputy commissioner of police in charge of railway has been assisting us on this. Particularly affected is our work force. Most of the time our workers are arrested while they are working on the drains along the rail line. Yesterday, we got a call that some of our workers cleaning the drains along the rail line were arrested because they were cleaning and discharging the silt along the rail line.” The commissioner stressed that beyond the assistance from the police, the cooperation of the railway authority was required. “Some of the expansions and the culvert we want to

cross over need their approval and in some cases we need their engineers to protect the rail line and guide us well,” he said. According to Bello, the government has constantly de-silt the various channels and embarked on expansion of others across the state to enable it tackle flood during the raining season. “I cannot say there won’t be flooding. Even in develop society they still expect flooding due to climate change. And if people who develop technologically are experiencing flooding who are we to say that there won’t be flood, but what we are doing is to open up the channels and ensure that we reduce the incidence of flood during raining season.”

16 youths arraigned for alleged attack on emir’s palace

IXTEEN youths, who allegedly attacked the palace of the Emir of Bauchi during the protest against petrol subsidy removal, have been arraigned at a Bauchi Chief Magistrate’s Court in Bauchi, the state capital. The court, presided over by Alhaji Isa Mohammed, heard that the youths were charged with mischief, inciting, public disturbance

financial constraints, the government has decided to revoke the contract.” The commissioner said the government would take legal action against the contractor to recover part of the advance payment, estimating the job done at N20 million. Commissioner for Health and Hospital Services, Yahaya Dan’Sallau said the government has established a N67.6million Renal Dialysis Centre in the Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (IBB) Hospital in Minna. He said this is against the backdrop of the high number

From Austine Tsenzughul, Bauchi

and possession of dangerous weapons at the emir’s palace. The charges are contrary to sections 114, 326, 3, and 7 of the Penal Code and the state’s laws on thuggery. Corporal Anna Yakubu said: “The accused were arrested with dangerous weapons by policemen on

patrol after the suspects had incited disturbance.” One of the accused, Yahaya Garba, allegedly had two sharp daggers. Fifteen of the suspects pleaded not guilty after the charges were read to them, but Mallam Yahaya Dauda pleaded guilty to the charge. Counsel to the accused, Usman Darazo and Jibrin Jibrin, applied for bail for

them. It was granted though Yakubu opposed it. Dauda was sentenced to six months’ jail with an option of N5,000 fine on each charge. The 15 accused have been granted bail after the payment of N50,000 with a surety, who must be a ward Head and owner of landed property worth N500,000. The case has been adjourned till January 30.

of kidney patients who are referred to hospitals outside the state. The commissioner, who was represented by his Permanent Secretary, Dr. Ibrahim Chindo, said eight dialysis machines, treatment machines and a water supply plant have been installed at the centre. He said the facilities are fully operational with adequate manpower to operate them. The commissioner said five kidney patients have been treated at the centre. He added that the Federal Ministry of Health has begun the training of health workers on the management of malaria and how to use the malaria test stripes procured by the state government.

LOSS OF DOCUMENT This is to notify the general public that the Title Document of the landed property belonging to Madam Suwebatu Elemide (Deed of Conveyance Dated 9/1/65) lying being situate at No 6 fadeyi street Ikeja Lagos and registered as No 41 at page 41 in volume 817 of the register of deeds at the Lands registry Alausa Ikeja have been declared missing. General public is to take note.

•Bello speaking to reporters...yesterday

The public and particularly those who may be interested in negotiating for purchasing or purporting to purchase the subject matter are hereby put on notice that our client has a bonafide right over same and the undersigned can be contacted. YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED YEMI ADETIBA &CO LEGAL PRACTITIONERS C12 2nd floor,24 olowu street Off obafemi awolowo way ikeja Tel; 08033055109,08055215413

IN THE HIGH COURT OF LAGOS STATE IN THE IKEJA JUDICIAL DIVISION (MATRIMONIAL CAUSES DIVISION) SUIT NO: ID/268HD/2011 BETWEEN: NDUBUISI ABEL CHIKEZIE

PETITIONER

VS ANGELINA CHIKEZIE

RESPONDENT

NOTICE OF PETITION TO MRS ANGELINA CHIKEZIE TAKE NOTICE that a petition has been presented at the family and probate division of the above named court by Mr Ndubuisi Abel Chikezie of umuchi village Nkata Ibeku Umuahia Abia State instituting proceedings for a decree of dissolution of marriage on ground of desertion. If you desire to defend the proceeding or to commence proceedings against the petitioner in relation to your marriage to the petitioner, you must file in the court an answer within 30 days of publication of this notice. If you fail to take any steps in relation to the proceedings brought against you by the petitioner the proceedings shall be heard and an order may be made against you in your absence. J.D. UWASOMBA ESQ 55,ADEOLA ODEKU STREET VICTORIAL ISLAND, LAGOS

THE NATION FRIDAY, JANUARY 20, 2012

NEWS DEPLOYMENT OF SOLDIERS

Akume calls for withdrawal of soldiers from Lagos, Kano, others

HE Senate Minority Leader George Akume has condemned the deployment of soldiers on the streets of Lagos and other parts of the country to prevent Nigerians from demonstrating against the removal of petrol subsidy by the Federal Government. In a statement by his Special Assistant on Media and Constituency, Mrs Becky Orpin, the senator noted that “there is nothing in the nature and dynamics of the demonstrations and rallies that required the use of military force”. The statement reads: “Nigerians have the right and have

By Olamilekan Andu

indeed demonstrated in a civilised manner, that they have the right to demand that their government meets its basic responsibility to them. “The action of the government in deploying soldiers to prevent them from the exercise of this right is not only a gross violation of their right but also alien to democratic norms and values. It also exposes the lack of capacity on the part of the PDP-led Federal Government in guaranteeing a balance between the right to free expression and the right to order. “It must be noted that democratic public order is a job for

well-trained policemen. No Army, however well it conducts itself, is suitable for police work. “The continuous reliance on the military has the tendency and has indeed prevented the Nigerian Police from bracing up to its responsibilities. Rather than continue with the tradition of always resorting to the military for the maintenance of public order, President Goodluck Jonathan must immediately think of a public order policy that is compatible with democratic values. The time to think of public order is not when the people are on the streets but well before that.”

From Victor Oluwasegun and Dele Anofi, Abuja

tion. In a statement by the Minority Whip, Samson Osagie (Edo), the party’s caucus noted that no circumstance(s) existed in the states to warrant deployment of troops The statement reads: “We are shocked that days after Labour had suspended its strike, the Federal Government still deemed it fit to continue to retain heavily armed soldiers on the streets of these states to harass and intimidate innocent citizens “It is, therefore, important to state that the presence of soldiers on the streets of these

states is only reminiscent of the attitude of a military government, which this country has since 1999 bidden farewell. “Surprisingly, states where emergency has been declared, due to high level of insecurity, do not have the concentration of the kind of troops deployed in these states in the Southwest. “Therefore, it is in the interest of the vast majority of our people that the government should not further militarise their psyche by urgently withdrawing troops from these states and to stop the harassment of the civilian population because the country is not at war.”

By Emmanuel Oladesu, Deputy Political Editor

AGOS State chapter of the Conference of Nigerian Political Parties (CNPP) and Coalition of Oodua Self-Determination Groups (COSEG) yesterday deplored the deployment of troops in the state by the Federal Government. They said the government’s action was anti-democratic and offensive. The Save Nigeria Group (SNG) dissociated itself from text messages intimating Lagosians with a proposed rally in Lekki, Lagos Island, tomorrow. SNG Convener Pastor Tunde Bakare, who spoke through one of the group’s chieftains, Mr. Yinka Odumakin, said: “SNG is only planning a victory rally on Saturday and the venue is the Gani Fawehinmi Freedom Park, Ojota.” At a news briefing in Lagos, CNPP, comprising 25 political parties, condemned what it described as “the militarisation of the peaceful Centre of Excellence by the deployment of soldiers and tanks on the streets to manage a situation which ordinarily police can handle”. Lagos CNPP Chairman Akinola Obadia urged the Federal Government to withdraw the soldiers without further delay as expected in a democratic setting. He said: “This is a wrong signal which suggests President Goodluck Jonathan’s resolve to crush every decent and lawful dissent to his unpopular policy on fuel subsidy removal. The right to disagree and freely hold contrary opinion is fundamental and universal as guaranteed by the Constitution and United Nations Universal Declaration on Human Rights of which Nigeria is a signatory.” Obadia noted that the subsidy crisis would not end until old refineries are revived and new ones built to fast-track local production and supply of refined products. COSEG Secretary Rasak Olokoba said: “President Jonathan had made a mistake by deploying troops when there is peace in Lagos State. Instead of confronting the security challenge posed by Boko Haram, unemployment and corruption, he is busy chasing shadows.” He called for the immediate withdrawal of soldiers to end the tension created by their presence on the streets. Odumakin, who maintained that SNG had no affiliate group, ally or branch in Lekki, said: “We don’t know anything about Occupy Lekki. There is no chapter of SNG in Lekki. The messages being circulated is not from SNG. The only rally we are organising is the victory rally at Ojota on Saturday, from 9 am. We will be at the Gani Fawehinmi Freedom Park, Ojota, for the peaceful rally. “The fear of tear gas will not deter SNG. A government that cannot prevent the excape of Boko Haram suspect from police cell is deploying troops to Lagos. This government is not serious.”

•Akume

Akume urged the President to direct the immediate withdrawal of soldiers from Nigerian streets “to allow them focus on their main purpose, which is the defence of the country from external aggression”.

ACN Reps condemn soldiers’ presence in Southwest HE Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) caucus in the House of Representatives has said the presence of soldiers on the streets of some states in the Southwest, following the peaceful protests against the removal of petrol subsidy by the Federal Government, is reminiscent of the military era. The party’s House members from Lagos, Oyo and Ogun states urged President Goodluck Jonathan to remove the soldiers without further dalay. The lawmakers said the presence of the soldiers was a harsh reward for supporting Dr Jonathan’s presidential ambition in last year’s elec-

Lagos CNPP, COSEG flay troops deployment

At a news briefing attended by Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Jumoke Okoya-Thomas, Adeola Solomon, Mudashiru Akinlabi, among others, the ACN House members said the continued deployment of soldiers on the streets of Lagos is unacceptable. Dabiri-Erewa said the President’s action amounts to a declaration of war on Nigerians who voted for him. She said: “It goes without saying that Lagos is a miniNigeria. Everybody has something to do with Lagos and with the protest. We cannot say Nigerians do not have the rights to say no to a government policy.”

THE NATION FRIDAY, JANUARY 20, 2012

www.thenationonlineng.net

FRIDAY, JANUARY 20, 2012

WHO SAID WHAT

TRUTH IN DEFENCE OF FREEDOM VOL. 7,

C OMMENT & D EB ATE EBA

AGNETIC Resonance Imaging (MRI) is the medical technology that scans the body, exposing its structure, and verifying any disease state it may harbor. A physician is then able to prescribe a medical or surgical remedy to restore bodily health. This is one of the marvels of modern medicine. With its exposure of the structural malady that ails the nation, the fuel subsidy crisis, and especially the attendant protest rallies and strike action by the organised labor and civil society, is to the nation what an MRI is to the body. The question remains whether or not there is an equivalent of the physician’s ability and will in the matter of restoring health to the nation. In any case, who is to the nation what the physician is to the body? The answer is blowing in the wind. What did the mass resistance to the removal of fuel subsidy reveal about the state of the nation body? There was the good; there was the bad; and there was the damned ugly. First, what was the good revealed by the crisis? It seems to me that in spite of everything, this country is abundantly blessed with the good fortune of having a politically conscious and informed citizenry ready to defend its hard-won rights to freedom and pursuit of happiness against the excesses of a government which prides itself in the firmness of its resolve to increase their misery and expand the horizon of hardship that encompasses them. Whether it was the spontaneity of the rallies, or the creativity of the various responses, or the focus on the generalised state of hopelessness that the fuel subsidy crisis only symbolised, our people demonstrated their inherent capacity for confronting evil. In spite of the efforts to politicise the struggle and demonise the protesters as some juvenile delinquents, the rallies portrayed them as generally disciplined, focused and highly intelligent. They articulated the demands in various ways and through different media, which revealed the creative genius of Nigerians. In a show of unity, which belied the politricksters’ penchant for creating divisions, Christians and Muslims sang and prayed together for peace and justice. These were not ego-driven clerics and clergymen; they were ordinary folks who saw the same conditions of scarcity in the midst of plenty and poverty in the midst of riches staring them in the face in the anatomy of their fellow citizens of different faith. They then saw that they had more in common than they were made to believe. In a moment of truth, the scales fell off. In short, it was clear from the crisis that our people can be relied upon to resist oppression and any attempt to befuddle issues by all forms of subterfuge on the

SEGUN GBADEGESIN gbadegesin@thenationonlineng.net

The MRI of a nation

•Dr. Jonathan

part of the political class. Second, what bad confronted us? The crisis exposed the incredible insensitivity of agents of government and their inability to demonstrate an empathetic understanding of the feelings of the masses. President Jonathan stood in a unique position to show compassion for the plight of the poor and dispossessed. The majority of those who were out in the street and suffered in the hands of security agents felt that they had no choice because the only loss they could suffer was the bondage of their body and soul. Society required of them to go to school to get education, and they did. They were asked to play by the rules and expect gainful employment. They did, but society

Don’t fight MALARIA...kill MOSQUITOES!

reneged. Surely, this predicament must be understandable to a president with the background of Dr. Goodluck. Why the belligerent bullish posture? Was that a sign of strength? Consider the tone of the President’s speech of January 15 to the nation. Whoever wrote the speech for him did him a lot of disservice. Dr. Jonathan went around the country selling himself as a transformational figure with compassion and capacity for empathy, having been in similar situation with many of our people early in life. He even had a Facebook pagewhere he befriended millions of Nigerians in and outside the country. The kind of crisis we just experienced was an occasion for him to prove his genuineness as a friend of the masses. What the speech showed instead was an angry hostile man. The dominant word in the speech was “government”, a distant symbol of oppression which he apparently projected. The major loss that concerned our President was the “disruption of economic activities.” How about the loss of lives of innocent young men? He referenced a “near-breakdown of law and order in certain parts of the country”, and of course this was the justification for deploying troops to those parts of the country! But where was a validation of the President’s personal investment in understanding the pain of the people when every sentence in the speech was prefaced with reference to an impersonal and distant ”government”? In Jonathan’s speech, it is government that understands; it is government that is working hard; it is government that salutes those who conducted themselves well, ad nauseam. Even when President Jonathan urged us to show understanding, it was to give government our full support to ensure the success of deregulation, the need for which we have not been persuaded by any serious argument. This is especially so in light of the revelations that the crisis brought to the fore, including deep sea corruption in the subsidy regime.

HARDBALL

RIPPLES USAID pledges $82m to fight malariaNews

NO. 2010

‘The country needs a new IGP who will be ready to partner with the management of the State Security Service (SSS) to combat the menace of terrorism’ FEMI FALANA Compare President Jonathan’s speech with the speech delivered by Governor Fashola of Lagos State. There was a clear difference. Almost every paragraph of Governor Fashola’s speech started with the first person singular pronoun “I”, thus demonstrating his personal investment in the people. In reference to the loss of a young man, Ademola Aderinto, the governor shared the pain of the loss with the deceased’s loved ones: “I am truly saddened by that ugly development. While I condole with his family, I pledge the commitment of our government to bring the alleged perpetrator to justice.” Nationally, estimates of lives lost to the crisis varied between 20 and 30. Does it detract from the elevated position of a President to pause and mourn those lives? Fashola made what appeared to me to be the salient point. When politicians canvass for votes, they do anything including the most silly. They dance with the people and make fools of themselves. They don’t then see the people as ruffians; they don’t then dismiss the people as thugs. But when these same people react against the policies that they consider to be against their interests, suddenly they are treated as lepers, and in the words of the President, promoters of “discord, anarchy and insecurity to the detriment of public peace.” Really? Finally,what is the “damned ugly” revealed by the crisis? The flawed structure of the union that we like to deceptively regard as divinely ordained was x-rayed. The sectionalisation and ethnicisation of a struggle which is transparently common is not a new thing. We have been through this path before and it is a sad experience to have repeated, especially with the rhetoric that, in such cases, usually accompanies dissension. It is a truism that poverty knows no section; and injustice doesn’t discriminate between ethnos. Why is it that a candidate appeals to all for votes but after getting into office, a section claims him or her as theirs and dares any individual or group to criticise him or her?Is it that ours has been a stunted growth in democratic politics? Or is it that the structure on which the foundation of our existence was laid is irremediably defective? If this is the case, would all these struggles for liberty, justice and progress for all ever succeed? Surely a united front against these ailments in the nation body is a prerequisite for success, and if we cannot expect such unity because of inherent divisions that work to the advantage of the common oppressor, where is the hope? In the matter of this national disease, who is to the nation what the physician is to the body? •For comments, send SMS to 08057634061

•Hardball is not the opinion of the columnist featured above

Boko Haram’s disappearing and infiltrating acts

HE hottest news in town is the disappearance from Police custody of a Boko Haram militant, Mallam Kabiru Sokoto, who was arrested a few days ago over last year’s Christmas Day bombing at Madalla, on the outskirts of Abuja. Apart from the fact that some 43 worshippers perished in the inferno triggered by that morning’s blast, the outrage that visited the incident, the remorselessness of the sect and the empathy showed by the rest of the world combined to make any arrest over the incident of such weight that no one could toy with it. Unbelievably, the police, which had long been accused of both complicity in some of the terror crimes and incompetence, managed to allow the prime suspect to escape. The suspect was being led to his house for a search. There are contradictory reports of how Mallam Sokoto escaped. But this is hardly the main issue. What is more important is that whether through carelessness or complicity, the suspect is gone. The InspectorGeneral of Police, Mr Hafiz Ringim, has been asked to explain what went wrong. In addition, the officers involved in the disap-

pearance have been suspended and placed in detention. Let us hope that they also will not carry out jailbreak. It will be recalled that President Goodluck Jonathan himself recently told a stunned church audience in Abuja that Boko Haram militants had infiltrated virtually everywhere, including the security services, to the point that no operative knew who among his colleagues was or wasn’t a member of the sect. When Boko Haram militants do not escape from custody in questionable circumstances, they fight their way out in jailbreaks. With such a violent predilection, it would have been expected that moving terror suspects around would be done under heavy security, especially given the repercussions of their crimes and the divisiveness of their activities. Instead, the Federal Government frequently assigned heavy security escort to political dissenters, as the deployment of troops in Lagos showed, rather than spare its heavyhandedness for agents of terror. The escape of the terror suspect is already being probed. It is hoped that lessons will be learnt from that appalling show of sloth-

fulness, even as concerted efforts would be made to apprehend the fleeing suspect. However, the disappearance of Boko Haram suspects, their sometimes audacious jailbreaks and their infiltration of the security services all point to the massive incompetence that undermines governance in Nigeria. The regrettable fact today is that the Nigerian government is so abysmally incompetent that it is a wonder the country has held together for more than 50 years. The government has in turn got so used to getting by on little efficiency and minute competence it now probably assumes it is chic to be slothful. The escape of the Boko Haram suspect reflects how the country itself is governed. The frightening revelations pouring out of the National Assembly probes of subsidy payments and downstream sector of the oil industry are so bad that Nigerians are surprised worse security breaches had not occurred before now. As it attempts to put its security house in order, the government should ponder what else it needs to do to make the country better run. It would be shocked if it tried.

Published and printed by Vintage Press Limited. Corporate Office: 27B Fatai Atere Way, Matori, Lagos. P.M.B. 1025,Oshodi, Lagos. Telephone: Switch Board: 01-8168361. Editor Daily:01-8962807, Marketing: 01-8155547 . Abuja Office: Plot 5, Nanka Close AMAC Commercial Complex, Wuse Zone 3, Abuja. Tel: 07028105302. E-mail: info@thenationonlineng.net Editor: GBENGA OMOTOSO