The Nation March 14, 2012

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Ibru’s widow battles husband’s brother

‘

Two weeks before he died, he embarked on a hunger strike and when the family members heard about it, some of them came to see him, including Mr Goodie Ibru ... Then my husband said he was going to fight him to the finish, dead or alive. That even when he dies, he was going to continue the fight, unless he (Goodie) resigned as the chairman of the company

M

•The late Ibru

•Mr Ibru

ORE facts emerged yesterday on the last days of the late Mr Alex Uruemu Ibru, the frontline businessman and publisher of The Guardian, who died on November 28,

By Eric Ikhilae

last year.

The widow, Mrs Maiden Ibru, relived his last days in court where she has mounted a legal battle to wind up a company owned by her hus-

band and his brother, Mr Goodie Ibru.

The matter came up at the Federal High Court, Lagos.

As Justice Okechukwu Okeke was about making his pronouncement on the sub-

’

missions by the lawyers, he noticed that Mrs Ibru raised her hand, demanding to be allowed just two minutes to speak, a request the judge granted. At that point, the

Members of AGAPE Birthrights Organisation protesting the “constant deprivation and degradation of oil producing communities” at the National Assembly Abuja ... yesterday

Continued on page 4

PHOTO: ABAYOMI FAYESE

UK to fight Boko Haram Sect kills three policemen, one soldier JNI condemns Jos bombing

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•Cameron

RITAIN yesterday pledged to step up its backing for Nigeria in the battle against the Boko Haram insurgency.

Defence Secretary Philip Hammond spoke of the House of Commons while recounting how the raid to rescue a Briton and an Italian held hostage in Sokoto State was carried out.

He spoke of how the British Spe-

cial Forces that joined Nigerian security personnel killed one of the hostage takers.

Three other captors, he said, were killed by Nigerian forces. One Nigerian soldier was wounded in the operation.

Hammond said: “This was a difficult operation that it was judged had to be carried out at speed, in view of the risks to the lives of Chris and

Franco.

“The deaths of Chris McManus and Franco Lamolinara were a terrible tragedy but let us be clear, the responsibility for their deaths lies squarely with the people who kidnapped them, held them, threatened them and then murdered them in cold blood.

“Terrorism and kidnapping can never be justified. Many of the

groups responsible for the kidnapping and murder of Chris and Franco, including their senior leaders, are either dead or have been detained - an important achievement in reducing the threat of future kidnapping.

“But violent, extremist Islamist groups remain active in Nigeria and so long as they are, we will work with the Nigerian and other allies to fight Continued on page 3

•OGUN ‘DIDN’T BLAME PRESIDENCY FOR LATE DELIVERY OF APCS’ P60

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14, 2012

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NEWS BOKO HARAM INSURGENCY

How bombings in T

HE state of insecurity occasioned by the recurrent bombings by the Boko Haram insurgent group in some parts of the country is not doing the country any good economically, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has said.

The Director-General of the SEC, Ms. Arunma Ote spoke during the public hearing by the Herman Hembe-led House of Representatives’ Committee on Capital Markets and Other Institutions yesterday.

She said the incessant bombings by the militant group was having negative impact on the capital market.

Ms. Ote said: “The spate of bomb•From left: FCT Minister Bala Mohammed, Minister of Information Labaran Maku, Vice-President Namadi Sambo, Chairman, Senate Committee on Information, Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe and Director-General, Voice of ings by the Boko Haram sect has led Nigeria (VON) Alhaji Abubakar Jijiwa, at the inauguration of the station’s ultra modern transmitting station at to an increase in the perception of inLugbe,Abuja...yesterday security in some parts of Nigeria with consequent negative impact on the market.”

The two-week hearing , which commenced yesterday, is meant to “identify the manifest causes of the market’s near collapse with a view to finding lasting solution.”

The SEC boss said the capital market is a common feature of every modern economy and is expected to perform a critical capital allocation function, which promote growth and stimulate orderly economic development.

She said: “In many advanced countries where capital market correlate directly with the economy, the capital market is viewed as the primary

From Victor Oluwasegun and Dele Anofi, Abuja

gauge for the economy’s performance. Moreso, capital markets with adequate depth play an essential role in economic development since they are the principal platform through which low cost funds to finance medium to long term projects on infrastructure and other important projects that transform economies are mobilised.”

The SEC boss, while speaking on unethical practices that brought the capital market to its knees, said illegalities perpetuated by banks and private sector players who consciously manipulated their shares on the Stock Exchange for fraudulent reasons were responsible for the crash in stock in 2008.

Ms. Ote said: “Emphasis on risk management and corporate governance did not evolve commensurately to support the fast growth, invariably, capital raised by the banks went into speculative lending to the oil and gas sector, and unregulated margin finance to brokers and individual investors which fuelled an asset bubble.

“Banks engineered overvaluation of their stocks on the stock exchange prior to accessing the market for capital. This was in addition to the financing the purchase of own stock in the primary market to create a semblance

JNI condemns Jos blast •A cross-section of students from Santuc Lumen Christi School, Garki, Abuja at the public presentation of the State of the World's Children Report 2012 in Abuja...yesterday

•National chairmanship aspirant of the People Democratic Party Alhaji Bamanga Tukur(left), Prof Bolaji Akinyemi and former Deputy Senate President Ibrahim Mantu during a lecture in honour of Tukur in Abuja ...yesterday PHOTO ABAYOMI FAYESE

From Tony Akowe, Kaduna

T

HE Muslim umbrella body in the North, Jama’atu Nasril Islam (JNI) yesterday condemned Sunday’s attack on St. Finbar’s Catholic Church, Rayfield, Jos. In a statement in Kaduna signed by its Secretary-General, Dr. Khalid Abubakar Aliyu, the group asked the Plateau state government to bring under control the reprisal attack by Christian youths.

The statement reads: “The JNI on behalf of the President-General and the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, and the entire Muslim Ummah in Nigeria condemns in strong terms and also commiserates with those who lost their loved ones.

“Similarly, the JNI condemns the attacks that ensued after the bomb blast by Christian youths, which led to the death of innocent souls, particularly Muslims.

“The government of Plateau state must rise above board to address the reprisal attacks that usually follow these bombings particularly that Muslims are always the target for an offence for which they are not guilty.

“Moreover, we call on all concerned, particularly the security agencies to as a matter of urgency, conduct thorough investigations on the issues and bring the culprits to book.

“JNI calls on Muslims all over the nation to remain calm, patient and continue with fervent prayers for peace and harmony in Nigeria.”

On the trail of Boko Haram

“Y

•Coordinator, AGAPE Birthrights Organisation,Annkio Briggs(left) presenting a protest letter on degradation of oil-bearing communities to the Chairman, Senate Committee on Environment Senator Bukola Saraki(right).

With them are members of the organisation at National Assembly Abuja... yesterday HOTO ABAYOMI FAYESE

ou could say Boko Haram is everywhere, or you could say it’s nowhere: both would be correct.”

This apparently confusing observation about the Nigerian militant Islamist group from one local expert is actually more helpful than it seems.

Responsible for a string of violent attacks in Nigeria that have killed some one thousand people over the last two years, Boko Haram, which means “Western education is forbidden”, has been bewildering and surprising to security specialists here.

Ask some, and you will hear that the organisation is a threat to the very unity of Nigeria. Ask others, and you will hear that it is not an organisation at all.

And, yes, they are both right.

Unspinning the complex and contradictory web of Boko Haram reveals four key threads.

First, taking in the historical per-

spective, it is a fundamentalist revival in northern Nigeria. Like other such movements, it rejects modern narratives and seeks to apply what it sees as traditional religious answers to all social questions. The term “Boko Haram” does not adequately capture their thoughts on Western education: they are not against Western technology and technical learning, but they lament the perceived deterioration of morals unleashed by Western influence. In other words, it is fine to use a laptop to access the internet as long as you are reading what they see as acceptably wholesome things.

Second, it is a political movement, which is really called Jama’atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda’awati Wal-Jihad (People Committed to the Propagation of the Prophet’s Teachings and Jihad), not Boko Haram. This political side, apparently split into at least three factions, is not afraid to use violence to achieve its aims. Those goals are both long-term, like instituting their version of strict sharia law in Nigeria, and also more immediate, like pushing for the release of their members in prison.

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14, 2012

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NEWS BOKO HARAM INSURGENCY

the North are killing economy, by SEC boss THE FIGURES

53.17 17.9 82.1 N478b N312b

•Per cent of banks’ equities in 2005

•The percentage of banks’ equities in 2011

•The per cent of other sectors in equities in 2011 •Foreign investment inflow in 2011

•Chairman, Senate Committee on Capital Market, Senator Ganiyu Solomon exchanging pleasantries with Commissioner, Operations, Security and Exchange Commission (SEC) , Daisy Ekweh, during public hearing. With them is the Ms. Oteh.

of huge investor appetite for such stock through shell companies.”

She said the resolution of the banking crisis in 2009, monetary policy decisions, local investor apathy, debt overhang and security challenge have all impacted negatively on the stock exchange.

According to her, in 2005, the banking sector dominated the equities sector with as much as 53.17 per cent and others were 46.83 per cent. She said banks’ participation dwindled at the end of 2011 to a meagre 17.90 per cent while other sectors occupied 82.10 per cent.

She said over the years, foreign interest in the market “grew with over 60 per cent of trades driven by foreign institutional investors.”

In her words: “Total foreign portfolio investment inflow, according to the Nigerian Stock Exchange, was N478.62 billion in 2011 as against an outflow

•Foreign investment outflow in 2011

of N312.65 billion. This resulted in a net positive inflow of N165.97 billion during the year. In 2010, there was a net inflow of N186.82 billion.”

Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy Mrs. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala and Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Mallam Sanusi Lamido Sanusi were absent at the hearing and they did not send representatives, in spite of the invitations sent to them by the committee.

Members of the committee threatened the Director-General of the Nigeria Stock Exchange, Oscar Onyema with arrest if he fails to appear before the committee today with his credentials in order to ascertain if he

actually merits his present position.

According to Hembe, on receiving the invitation from the committee to participate in the public hearing, Onyema had written the committees that they have no power to oversight him.

The committee chair said at least 10 million Nigerians were active participants in the capital market.

He said: “A majority of this number has lost their entire investments while others are still in debt without a clear part out of the logjam.”

Speaker Aminu Tambuwal, who was represented by his Deputy, Emeka Ihedioha, enjoined all stakeholders “to ensure they factor in their input into the hearing.”

UK to join battle against Boko Haram, says Defence Secretary •Continued from page 1

•Hammond

Their grievances against the police are particularly deep-seated. Not only are many of their followers locked up, their leader, Mohammad Yusuf, was killed in police custody in 2009, and that, perhaps more than any other single event, drives the group — sometimes also known as the “Yusufiyah” — in its violent campaign, with police stations a frequent target.

Fears of connections to outside terrorist groups like Al Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb and Al Shabab, should not be overblown. Islamic militancy and extremism in northern Nigeria have always had external connections and linkages, but this is predominantly a Nigerian phenomenon. A few members may have received training abroad, butit probably contains few if any foreign fighters. This sect has a well-developed domestic bomb-making capability now, as the frequency of deadly explosions and the discovery of bomb factories demonstrate.

And despite allegations of arms streaming south from post-Qaddafi Libya, adherents are able to source small arms from corrupt security services with relative ease.

Third, “Boko Haram” is an ideology providing inspiration to some Nigerians living in grinding poverty under a set of rulers who con-

the scourge of terrorism wherever it manifests itself.”

Boko Haram has carried on with its bloody mission, killing three policemen, one soldier and four others in Kano and Mubi, Adamawa State.

The Kano attack occurred yesterday. The killings in Adamawa took place on Monday night.

McManus and Limolinara were employees of a construction firm.

They were abducted from a construction site in Birni Kebbi in May last year and taken to Sokoto. They were killed last Thursday following the storming of the hideout where they were kept by their captors.

Hammond said the British Government supported Nigerian troops in the attempted rescue of McManus and Lamolinara after receiving credible information of their location

and “imminent and escalating” threats to their lives.

Shadow Defence Secretary Jim Murphy endorsed the decision to launch the raid last Thursday.

Hammond said: “The assessment on the ground was there was a significant possibility the kidnappers, if present, were already aware their security had been compromised and if they were not, the level of military activity in the town meant there was a real risk of them developing that awareness.

“The military judgment was that the hostages were facing an imminent and escalating threat and while an immediate rescue attempt would inevitably involve risk, it represented the best chance of securing the release of Chris and Franco alive.”

Hammond said British Prime Min-

ister David Cameron gave the goahead for British involvement in the assault after a briefing by military and national security advisers.

He told MPs the operation lasted about 90 minutes but that the bodies of the two hostages were found by the troops in a room at the rear of the compound.

The Defence Secretary added: “The early indications are clear both men were murdered by their captors with automatic gun fire before they could be rescued.”

Hammond told MPs a coroner’s inquest into the death of Mr McManus would be held.

He said it continued to be the policy of the British Government not to pay ransoms to terrorist groups who take hostages.

Hammond said it had become clear following the kidnap that it was

being carried out by the terrorist group Boko Haram and clear demands had not been issued.

He said the kidnappers made some direct contacts with Mr McManus’s family.

“But at no time during their captivity did the kidnappers make any coherent demands.”

He said on a visit to Nigeria in July 2011, Mr Cameron agreed a package of support from Britain for Nigeria’s counter-terrorism efforts with President Goodluck Jonathan.

Hammond said:“Following a further briefing, the Prime Minister gave authorisation to the rescue attempt, which began at 10.58am London time.

“The UK’s ambassador in Rome informed the Italian government an operation was beginning as soon as possible afterwards.”

cern themselves not with running the country but with simply stealing the country’s oil wealth. It passes no Nigerian’s notice that decades of official plunder have left what should be a thriving — or at least developing — nation in a pitiful state of neglect. Illiteracy stands at 40 per cent, and poverty is rising, with 100 million people, or 61 per cent of the population, now living in absolute poverty on less than $1 a day. Despite petroleum’s billions, citizens have to cover all their basic services themselves: health, education and security.

Like other political and armed movements that have sprung up in this country, including the recent fuel subsidy protests that brought the country to a standstill, Boko Haram is just a symptom of the crumbling Nigerian state. Of course, despite their daily trials, the vast majority of Nigerians do not turn to armed militancy, of the Islamist variety or any other, but the fact that a small and very deadly portion do is a clear sign of the country’s basic underlying dysfunction.

Finally, “Boko Haram” is also a cover for criminal activity and political thuggery of all sorts. Anything that turns violent can be blamed on the Islamist movement, whether it has a link to it or not. It is

a perfect alibi, one that prevents further questioning. Bank robbery?

Boko Haram. Attack on political opponents? Boko Haram.

As such, the name is ceasing to have any meaning at all: Boko Haram is everywhere and nowhere at the same time.

The hype in much of the Nigerian media also contributes to the problem, as many media outlets chasing sales seem all too willing to fall for unsubstantiated rumour and outright lies proffered by political trouble-makers — or by nobody at all. Of course, some international media reporting has also been more scare-mongering than substance, presenting this as a new terrorist threat to the West, when it is fundamentally a Nigerian issue.

The Boko Haram phenomenon, in all its threads, has captured the imagination of the entire nation, filling newspaper pages and air time with fear and misinformation that reaffirms everyone’s core understanding of their deeply dysfunctional state: Nigeria is broken and headed toward the brink.

It is hard to imagine a state that is so much a part of the problem effectively dealing with it. Still, the dozens of security experts, academics and journalists I met with all agreed on the basic elements to address the

four interlocking parts of the Boko Haram phenomenon.

The criminal side of everything claiming to be, or claimed to be, Boko Haram needs to be handled as criminal cases. This requires a nonrapacious police force and independent judiciary. Every aspect of the police needs reforming: recruitment, training and management. With the reputation of the police at rock bottom, even practical intelligence gathering within the community is extremely difficult in the absence of trust.

Other internal intelligence agencies have competent hands, apparently doing their job professionally, but they are routinely undermined by undue political interference and rampant politicisation of their data.

Added to that, information sharing between security agencies seems to be limited at best, and many suspect that intelligence is often withheld or fabricated to boost agencies’ claims for greater slice of the budgetary pie.

All that would be a huge set of tasks for Nigeria to overcome in its current condition. It may seem unlikely enough, but sadly, it is hardly all that is required.

To counter the recruiting potential of violent movements in Nigeria, not only Boko Haram, the country has got to address rampant cor-

ruption and pour the oil wealth into government services rather than officials’ overseas bank accounts. Otherwise, the very word “state” will have no meaning at all, and people will continue to seek other solutions to help organise their society and support their lives, with some using violence to achieve those aims.

The idea that Nigeria, failing its people on so many fronts and with too many looters posing as leaders, could achieve all this seems almost fanciful. The far more likely scenario is continued deterioration on all fronts and a disastrous military-first approach to the insurgency that only drives more young men to grab a gun or build a bomb.

Still, as impossible to achieve as a comprehensive good governance solution may seem, it is also by common consent here the only thing likely to work. If there is any optimism in this generally dismal picture, it is exactly this: a clearly growing consciousness that the current situation is not sustainable and that Nigeria needs some stiff medicine to address not only the symptoms of the disease like Boko Haram, but the disease of state failure itself.

•Andrew Stroehlein, Communications Director of the International Crisis Group, wrote this piece for The Independent of London

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THE NATION WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14, 2012

NEWS PDP governors to present three candidates for chair

P

•Osun State Governor .Rauf Aregbesola, his deputy, Mrs. Titi Laoye-Tomori, a Cuban expert on School Calisthenics Programme, Mr Francis Jose Vasque and his partner, Mrs. Rayza Alioe Guena dancing , during a reception for them at the Government House, Osogbo, Osun State ... on Monday. Story on page 10

Policeman, soldier, four others killed in Mubi

A

POLICE inspector, a soldier and four other persons were killed in a Monday night attack by unidentified gunmen in Mubi, Adamawa State .

Eyewitnesses told the News Agency of Nigeria in Mubi that a unit of military patrol team was also attacked by the gunmen, wounding the men on duty.

The witnesses said the unidentified gunmen attacked a military patrol vehicle on Ahmadu Bello Way in Mubi.

The attack was followed by multiple explosions and sporadic gunfire, which started at about 7.30p.m and lasted throughout the night in various parts of the town.

The witnesses said some of the gunmen were riding in a car while others were on motorcycles.

One of the witnesses, Malam Bala Muhammad, told NAN that some of the gunmen who were riding in the car detonated an explo-

From Kolade Adeyemi, Kano

sive device and opened fire on the moving military patrol vehicle.

He said the soldiers, who were under heavy gun attack, responded to the fire in selfdefence, adding that one soldier was killed and four others wounded in the surprise attack.

Muhammad said, “The gunmen fled the area, leaving one soldier killed and four others wounded. One police officer and other persons were also killed in the attack.

“We could not ascertain the identities of the four persons, whether they were pedestrians or gunmen.”

When contacted, the Commissioner of Police for Adamawa State, Mr. Aderene Shinaba, referred NAN to the command’s spokesperson Ms. Altine Daniel.

But Ms Daniel said that the command would address journalists on the incident

later on Tuesday. She had not done so as of the time of filing this story.

On Monday, soldiers attacked a training camp belonging to the Boko Haram sect in Mubi and killed six of its members.

In Kano, two policemen were killed and one soldier wounded at Gworon Dutse yesterday, when gunmen suspected to be Boko Haram members attacked a Joint Task Force (JTF) vehicle.

It was the fifth-day running in the confrontation between the police and Boko Haram men in the city.

The incident happened at about 5pm when the Joint Task Force vehicle on normal patrol was ambushed by the suspected Boko Haram members.

An eye witness described the attack as “serious”.

People scampered for safety.

The eye witness account added that the operation which lasted for over 30 min-

utes, witnessed a gun duel between the police and the suspected sect members.

It was gathered that the suspected Boko Haram members who were riding on motor bike, ambushed the patrol team and opened fire on the vehicle.

Spokesman of the JTF Lieutenant Ike Dichi Iweha, confirmed the attack saying two police men were killed, one soldier injured, while one of the suspected Boko Haram members was shot dead during the confrontation.

Kano police confirmed in a statement that a senior police officer, who was trailed to his private residence at Karkasara in Kano on Monday, succeeded in gunning down a gunman suspected to be a member of the Boko Haram sect.

For five days running, Kano has been witnessing persistent attacks, resulting in confrontation between the police and the militant sect.

EOPLES Democratic Party (PDP) governors are yet to agree on a consensus candidate for the party’s top position, it was learnt last night.

The governors are likely to meet between March 21 and 23 to recommend three of the 11 candidates jostling to lead the party to President Goodluck Jonathan.

The PDP National Convention to elect national officers will hold in Abuja on March 24.

But the PDP Stakeholders Forum, a pressure group within the party, has kicked against alleged moves to impose a former Governor of the now defunct Gongola State, Alhaji Bamanga Tukur, on the party as chairman.

The candidates willing to lead the party are: Tukur; the National Publicity Secretary Prof. Rufai Alkali; ex-Minister of Commerce Amb. Idris Waziri; ex-Minister of Agriculture Shettima Mustapha; National Secretary Musa Babayo; ex-Minister of Agriculture Adamu Bello; a former National Chairman of the defunct Grassroots Democratic Movement (GDM), Alhaji Gambo Lawan; ex-Governor Adamu Mu’azu; a former Special Adviser to the President on National Assembly Matters, Senator Abba Aji, former Minister of FCT Bunu Sheriff and Alhaji Ibrahim Birma.

Investigation by our correspondent revealed that although some party leaders are pushing for Tukur, most PDP governors prefer to recommend three candidates to the President among whom one will be chosen by consensus.

A source, who spoke in confidence, said: “We have not adopted anyone as a consensus candidate. What the governors will do is to screen all the candidates and recommend the best three.

“Even at a meeting with President Goodluck Jonathan on Monday, no candidate was endorsed by the President. Issues surrounding Tukur came up, but the governors did not make any com-

From Yusuf Alli, Abuja

mitment yet.

“But they assured the President that they will work with him to ensure the emergence of a consensus national chairman.

“I believe between March 21 and 23, the PDP governors will meet and present three candidates to the President. Any of the candidates could be adopted as a consensus chairman.

“No one is disputing the fact that Tukur is a leading candidate but the governors have not adopted him or any candidate as the consensus choice for the office of National Chairman.

“Consultations are still in progress as I am talking to you.

The indisputable fact is that the next chairman will emerge through consensus.”The PDP Stakeholders Forum, in a message to PDP members through its co-ordinator, Ugochukwu Chinyere, said: “We wish to alert PDP members, delegates and stakeholders that the few forces pushing the Bamanga Tukur project are not relenting in their bid to impose him on PDP, in spite of his rejection by some stakeholders and some governors of Northeast. PDP delegates will resist this plot to turn PDP into a political rehabilitation or retirement centre.”

The Forum asked PDP delegates to go for young elements – in line with the global trend.

It added: “Dear PDP delegates, please note that these global facts that Bamanga Tukur is afraid to accept are: The chairman of US Republican Party is 39 years old; the chairman of US Democratic Party is 45years; the Presidentelect/ chair of United Russia Party is 59 years; the chair of British Conservative Party is 41 years; the chair of Ghana’s NPP is 59 years; the chair of French Left Party is 60 years; and the Chancellor of Germany/chair of CDU party is 57 years.

“A great grandfather is aspiring to lead the PDP at 81, come 24th of March. We will prove that the PDP is not a grandpa’s job.”

Ibru’s widow battles husband’s brother in court Continued from page 1

court went silent.

Mrs Ibru, who was accompanied by one of her children, Toke, told the court why she filed the suit.

“Six months before my husband died, the doctors told me that he was going to die.

And for five months, he was out of circulation and nobody saw him and even his family members did not bother about him.

“Two weeks before he died, he embarked on a hunger strike and when the family members heard about it, some of them came to see him, including Mr Goodie Ibru. When Goodie came, he (the deceased) said he did not even expect he could be talking.

“Then my husband said he was going to fight him to the finish, dead or alive. That even when he dies, he was going to continue the fight, unless he (Goodie) resigned as the chairman of the company (Tourist Company Nigeria Plc).”

“He said out of all his brothers, the last person that he thought will betray him was Goodie. They had altered some of the company’s documents, diverted money and committed all sort of

atrocities without the knowledge of my husband. I am a widow and have children to take care of,” she said.

Mrs Ibru said while entering the court, she saw her husband who, she claimed, encouraged her to proceed with her actions.

She alleged that her late husband was unhappy with Mr Goodie Ibru and had demanded that he (Goodie) quit his position in one of the companies they jointly owned.

Dressed in a black gown, Mrs Ibru spoke at the hearing of a winding-up petition her lawyer, Dr. Tunji Braithwaite, filed against Tourist Company of Nigeria Plc, jointly owned by her late husband and his brothers.

Mrs Ibru, who sued on behalf of Omamo Investments Corporation (a company owned by her late husband), is seeking to wind up Tourist Company, believed to own the Federal Palace Hotel, Lagos on ground of alleged indebtedness.

She stated in the windingup petition that Omamo Investments, between 2003 and 2009, lent to the Tourist Company $7.1m, N610m, N381m and N19m, which the company has allegedly been unable to repay.

Mrs Ibru, who claimed to have made several demands on the respondent to no avail, prayed the court to wind up the company for allegedly being insolvent.

She stated that the respondent “has failed beyond resuscitation, has insufficient assets to meet its liabilities, does not have the capacity to meet the conditions for which it was incorporated and has suffered a total erosion of its capital base”.

“The respondent is both cash flow and balance sheet insolvent and has not been carrying on effectively, the business of hotelling and catering.”

She averred that the whole substratum of the company is gone and it is impossible to carry on the essential purpose for which it was formed.

Mrs Ibru urged the court to wind up the Tourist Company under the provisions of the Companies and Allied Matters Act, CAP C20 LFN 2004 and appoint a provisional liquidator in the person of the President of the Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) or his nominee.

But the respondent has denied Mrs. Ibru’s claim and asked the court to dismiss the

suit on the ground of incompetence, adding that it discloses no reasonable cause of action and constitutes a gross abuse of the court process.

In a preliminary objection filed by its lawyer, Onyebuchi Aniakor , the Tourist Company argued that no grounds, as provided for by law, had been disclosed by the petitioner to justify the commencement of a winding-up proceeding against it.

It said the petitioner had not shown that the alleged indebtedness, the subject matter of the petition, was due for payment or payable by the respondent.

The respondent contended that as against the petitioner’s claim, no demand for payment on the alleged indebtedness had been made on it.

At yesterday’s proceedings, the presiding judge informed parties about a letter written to the court by Chief Edwin Clark and J.P Clark, two Delta State elder statesmen, praying the court to adjourn the case indefinitely for parties to explore amicable settlement options.

Part of the letter, read out by one of the court’s officials, reads: “As members of the family, the two parties are

our relations. We will like the court to give us the opportunity to intervene and settle the matter amicably.”

Braithwaite urged the court to ignore the letter, arguing that the writers had nothing to do with the case and were not party to the petition.

Besides, he has written to the Chief Judge for the case to be transferred to another judge.

Aniakor, who agreed with Braithwaite that the writers of the letter were busybodies in the petition, said they were well-intentioned busybodies.

He said it was the duty of the court to promote amicable settlement of any dispute before it and that the recent development has provided the platform for such settlement in this case.

Aniakor, however, left the final decision on the issue to the court.

Justice Okechukwu Okeke, after studying the court processes filed by the parties, noted that the case involved two brothers, an observation Braithwaite objected to, stressing that it was a commercial dispute between two companies.

The court, at that point sought the opinion of a senior lawyer in court - Kola Awodein (SAN) - who told the court it has

the discretion to handle the case the way it pleases, but consider the interest of all the parties – in accordance to the rules and regulations of the courts.

He observed that there may not be an end to such interventions, should the letter be allowed. Awodein noted, however, that the court has the duty to encourage amicable settlement, which the letter has provided the right platform for in the case.

Awodein said the court has the powers to consider the letter on its merits and decide to grant an adjournment so that the matter could be settled out of court, in view of the provision of Section 17 of the Federal High Court Civil Procedure Rules.

Justice Okeke later adjourned the case for a week for parties to explore the opportunity to settle the dispute out of court, in view of the provision of Section 17 of the court rules.

The judge consequently withdrew from handling the case and announced his intention to return the case file to the Chief Judge for reassignment to another judge. His decision, he said was informed by the conducts of parties, particularly the petitioner’s letter to the Chief Judge demanding a reassignment.

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THE NATION WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14, 2012

NEWS

Our deal with South Korea, by Wike

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INISTER of State for Education Nyesom Wike has explained the partnership between Nigeria and South Korea to improve technical education.

Speaking yesterday at the headquarters of the South Korean International Cooperation Bureau in Seoul, Wike said the country was tapping from the wealth of experience which South Korea has developed in technical and vocational education.

The minsiter met with the director-general of the Bureau, Youmi Suh. A statement by his Special Assistant (Media), Simeon Nwakaudu, quoted the minister as urging the South Korean government to extend its investment in the construction of vocational and technical colleges in Nigeria to four more states.

Wike thanked the South Korean government for funding the training programmes for basic education managers in Nigeria, which started first week of this month and the training of primary school teachers to be held in April.

Wike said: “We are happy that our cooperation with the South Korean government is yielding fruits for our country in the form of construction of schools in Kogi and Katsina States and the training of our education administrators and primary school teachers. We want to

•Deputy Director, National Mass Literacy, Adult and Non-Formal Education Commission, Mr Vincent Nemieboku, Wike, Suh and Executive Secretary of Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) Dr. Ahmed Modibo Mohammed in Seoul, South Korea...yesterday

By Tajudeen Adebanjo

solicit that the scope of these programmes be increased, especially the construction of technical and vocational education in four more states of Nigeria.

“Our interest in technical and vocational education stems from the fact that we have commenced a determined investment in this area with the desire to create employment opportunities amongst our

youths. We know that the South Korean government has a developed form of technical and vocational education, which we want to fully tap into for the benefit of our people.”

The minister said the country requires urgent assisatnce in masonry, automobile technology, carpentry and ceramics.

He assured the Korean authorities that the ministry would ensure proper monitoring and evalu-

ation of all projects being executed by them in Nigeria.

He urged the Korean government to start work on the model primary school in Abuja and the Teachers’ Institute in Enugu, for which preliminary approval has been secured.

Suh noted that the Korean government was interested in developing the standard of education in Nigeria.

She said Korea is willing to share best practices in the basic education

Paralysed after surgery, Nigerian refuses L to quit Indian hospital YING on a bed in the general ward of the state-run JJ hospital, 50-year-old Nigerian Patience Uvaise chokes with emotion. “A year ago, when I arrived in India, I could walk comfortably.

Now, I will have to return home paralysed,” said Uvaise, who came to India to be treated for cervical spondylosis.

Uvaise, who ended up with paralysis after three surgeries at the privately run Hiranandani hospital in Navi Mumbai, was shifted to JJ hospital a fortnight ago. She says she will not leave JJ hospital or the country till she “gets justice”.

Uvaise, who is here with her son, had alleged negligence on the part of doctors at Hiranandani hospital, and had filed a case in Bombay High Court.

The hospital refuted the allegation.

The court had referred Uvaise’s case to JJ hospital, asking it to probe whether Uvaise’s condition was reversible. Now, doctors at JJ hospital have concluded that her condition is not reversible. Doctors at JJ hospital said Uvaise is a quadriplegic - no sensation below the hip and

•Hospital denies negligence in the limbs. The doctors say her condition will not improve as her spinal cord has been damaged.

Uvaise, who arrived in Mumbai in April last year said she had undergone surgery for cervical spondylosis on April 30. Her 28year-old son Efe said three hours after the surgery, his mother could not move her limbs, something which she could prior to the surgery.

Normally, a patient can move her legs in case the surgery is successful, say doctors.

“Neurosurgeon from Hiranandani Fortis hospital Ashok Hande, whom we had consulted before reaching India and who operated on my mother, asked for a second operation the same day. But there was no improvement.”

Efe said Dr Hande then assured them that his mother’s condition

would improve within six weeks.

“Dr Hande told us that she would be able to walk by then,” said Efe, who is among five siblings. “But even seven weeks later, there was no improvement at all.”

Two months later, a specialist from Pune was called by Hiranandani hospital and Uvaise was put through a third surgery, which did not help at all.

By then, the mother-son’s troubles compounded with the expiry of their visa.

“We came to India as we had heard a lot about the good quality medical treatment here. But the doctors have damaged my mother’s spinal cord and I will never see my mother walking again,” alleged Efe. The family had spent around Rs 8 lakh, and the hospital forced them to take discharge, but Uvaise refused and decided to file a case

against the doctors.

Dr Hande said there wasn’t any negligence on the part of the hospital or its doctors. “During the eight months that the patient was admitted to hospital, we operated thrice on her but charged only for one operation. We were taking care of her, what else could we have done?” said Dr Hande.

Asked why they had to perform three surgeries,Dr Hande said Uvaise had severe cervical spondilysis. “There was low blood supply to her spine. In order to improve blood supply we operated twice. As things did not improve, we sought help from a specialist from Pune for the third surgery and this surgery was successful. The damage detected by doctors at JJ hospital existed even before we operated on the patient.”

•Culled from The Times of India

53 Nigerians deported, says UK

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HE British High Commission yesterday said only 53 Nigerians were repatriated from the United Kingdom last week.

A statement by the Press and Political Secretary of the High Commission, Hoomam Nouruzi, said: “The United Kingdom returned 53 individuals, not 120 as stated, back to Nigeria last week.

The reason for removal was clear.

The persons concerned were in the UK illegally, having no right to remain.

“As enabled by UK law, the returnees had appealed against Her Majesty’s Government’s decision to remove them in independent immigration tribunals and the High

By Wale Ajetunmobi

Court, which considered their cases, and ruled in favour of the removals.

“It is important to note that the UK does not remove people who have a right to remain, or whose cases are still being heard by the relevant courts. As noted above, the individuals concerned no longer had a legal entitlement to stay in the UK and had exhausted the judicial processes available to them to challenge that position. ”Second, the returnees were not carried on a cargo aircraft, but on a conventional aeroplane. This reflects our commitment to returning immigration offenders with dignity and respect. “Third, they were trans-

ferred with their possessions; and some would also have benefited from the UK’s ‘assisted voluntary return scheme’ which offers financial assistance to help people successfully return and reintegrate into their countries of origin.

“I would like to take this opportunity to note the wider point that the vast majority of visits to the UK

by Nigerians are successful and add value to the bilateral relationship: the British High Commission granted nearly 75 per cent of some 200,000 Nigerian visa applications last year. But a small percentage of travellers do not abide by the terms of their visa and it is the UK government’s responsibility to take all necessary steps to remove

•Prime Minister David Cameron

them.Our message is clear: you are welcome to the UK, but please abide by the rules of your visa.”

and tertiary education sectors.

Suh called for the strengthening of ties between the education ministries of both countries, adding that the International Corruption Bureau would work towards developing the relevant content in technical and vocational education.

The minister also met with Nigerian basic education managers being trained by the Korean government. He urged them to be focused.

‘Era of imposition of candidates over’ From Emma Mgbeahurike, Owerri

THE Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) delegate to the National Convention from Ehime Mbano Local Government Area of Imo State, Chief Athan Achonu, yesterday said the era of imposition of candidates in the party was over.

Achonu spoke at his country home in Umunomu, Ehime Mbano Local Government Area while addressing party faithful after he emerged the delegate.

Achonu polled 255 of the 261 votes accredited for the election held at the Central School, Umuapara Ehime Mbano Local G overnment Area.

Four aspirants stepped down for him.

He said the era when his people were subjected to supporting a candidate against their wish because of money was gone.

Achonu said: “ I thank my people for choosing me. If we ensure money is not shared to buy people’s votes, it will assist to reposition our party and give the people the opportunity to choose or vote according to their conscience.”

He said he vied for the position to rescue his people, whom he said were in trouble.

He added: “I want to set example on how to play real politics. I pledge not to let my people down. I promise to use my position to bring back all former members of the PDP into the party to move the party to a greater height.

“I assure you that political positions meant for the local government area would be shared among the people of the area equally to ensure harmony.”

The 2011 governorship candidate of the Progressive Peoples Alliance (PPA), in Imo State, Emeka Duru, said he left PDP because of the treatment meted out to him. He has decided to return to the party.

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14, 2012

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NEWS

Row in Senate over Bill to stifle strike

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ENATORS were sharply divided yesterday over a bill seeking to erect an obstacle for labour in calling for a strike.

The controversial bill, sponsored by Senator Heineken Lokpobiri (Bayelsa West), caused an uproar. Senate President David Mark suspended debate of the bill.

Some Senators saw Mark’s intervention as a soft landing for the sponsor of the seemingly unpopular “Bill for an Act to further amend the Trade Union Act, Cap.T14 Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004 as amended 2005 to make provisions for ballot as a requirement before any action taken by trade unions and for other matter connected therewith 2012.”

Lokpobiri, who led the debate, noted that the gamut of the amendment is to bring the practice of industrial action in trade unionism in line with global best practices as obtainable in Britain, United States, Canada, France, Belgium and South Africa.

He noted that in Britain, the Trade Union and Labour Relations (consolidated) Act 1992 provides for requirement of ballot before any industrial action by trade unions.

“This helps to achieve an affirmative consensus on union members through the instrumentality of ballot. Fairness, transparency and accountability are also given pride of place in the scheme of things,” he said.

The lawmaker, who said Lord Denning defined a strike as “a concerted stoppage of work by men, done with a view to improving their wages or conditions of employment, or giving vent to a grievance or making a protest about something or sympathising with other workmen in such endeavour”, not-

From Onyedi Ojiabor, and Sanni Onogu, Abuja

ed that it presupposes a group of workers acting collectively.

According to him, a strike connotes a combined action or effort of workers at bringing about the cessation of work.

He said: “It is not left for an individual to act alone or a group of individuals acting independently of each other or at cross purpose. Strike is, therefore, a legitimate bargaining tool that may be used by employees.

“The requirement of agreement on the part of a simple majority of the members of a union makes it imperative for a ballot as contained in this proposed amendment.”

The amendment, Lokpobiri said, would be of immense advantage to the employer and the employee.

His words: “For the employer, the outcome of the ballot would be a clear sign of the disposition of his workforce. This would make such employer catch the mood of the workers and shift his grounds early enough to avert such strike.

“For the employee, the requirement of ballot would be an avenue for him to either agree or disagree with the demand for an industrial action.

“In that way, no worker would have to be compelled by the leaders of his trade union against his will to stay away from work.

“Acts of compulsion in the name of picketing, which often result in intimidation, molestation and even violence among union members would be a thing of the past.

“It is instructive to note that strike, as contemplated

•Lanlehin

‘Union leaders are not imbeciles because they gauge the mood of their members before embarking on strike’

‘It would be wrong for us to question the way and manner they manage their affairs’

by the Trade Unions Act, does not accommodate strike against government, except where government is the employer.

“The use of the platform of trade unions for political gains is not a trade dispute.

“In the light of the above and with due regard to the varying and often conflicting interests in our variegated political space, the direct involvement of the members of the union in the form of a ballot have become even more imperative.”

Lokpobiri went on: “This amendment accordingly provides that an act done by a trade union to induce a person to take part in industrial action, should have the support of a ballot.

“The requirement of support of ballot as envisaged by this amendment is achieved only if the majority voting in that ballot answered “yes” to the question; “whether he is prepared to take part in the strike.”

“Leadership at the trade unions must in line with the tenets of democracy satisfy the yearnings of their members.

“It is therefore only logically expedient that for any strike to see the light of the

day, it should enjoy the wellintentioned support of the members of the union.

“The conduct of a ballot as specified by this amendment would spare the nation and the trade unions the misfortune of any arbitrary strike undertaken by the leadership of the union.”

He added that his intention for proposing the bill is for the Senate to democratise the entire process of calling a strike.

“My intention is to ensure that Nigeria goes along with all other countries in the world where things are done in better, standardised way.

But hardly had Lokpobiri concluded his debate when some senators went into a rage against the proposed bill. But others supported it.

Senator Olufemi Lanlehin (Oyo South) was the first to hit hard at the bill, which he described as an infringement on democratic rights of labour unions.

Lanlehin said unions have constitutions which prescribe the modalities for embarking on a strike.

He said: “Union leaders are not imbeciles because they gauge the mood of their members before embarking on strike.”

Reps kick against motion to return police road blocks

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AWMAKERS pushing for the return of police check points lost out yesterday at the lower chamber of the National Assembly.

The motion to bring back road blocks was thrown out.

Majority of the lawmakers voted against it in a voice vote conducted by Speaker Aminu Tambuwal.

The anti-lawmakers said the use of road blocks to curb crimes on the highway was not only crude, but has proved to be grossly ineffective in the face of the new security challenges facing the country.

Friday Itulah (PDP, Edo), who moved the motion, said Acting Inspector-General of Police Mohammed Abubakar’s decision to dismantle road blocks nationwide has exposed Nigerians to attacks by armed robbers.

Saying that the highways have become a beehive of robberies incidents following the IGP order, Itulah noted that notorious armed robbers that usually operate in large numbers have taken advantage of the directive to make life miserable for innocent Nigerians.

According to him, the prevalent security situation has made the presence of the po-

•Makarfi

‘Even if it is subjected to public hearing, I don’t see how the public would support it’ Senator Smart Adeyemi (Kogi West) vehemently opposed the bill, which he dismissed as “really uncalled for and an exercise in futility”.

Adeyemi, a former President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), said, “Trade unions and professional bodies were formed to improve the standard of living of their members. If a policy is coming that would affect workers, they have a right to decide to go on strike. It would be wrong for us to questions the way and manner they manage their affairs.”

To Senator Ahmed Makarfi (Kaduna North), the bill is subject to misunderstanding.

He urged the Senate to exercise caution as it would be difficult to ask millions of workers to vote before embarking on a strike.

Said Makarfi: “It is ill-timed and would be seriously misunderstood. Even if it is subjected to public hearing, I don’t see how the public would support it.”

Senator Joshua Dariye (Plateau Central) said Nigeria does not need the bill.

He argued that sometimes when unpopular decisions are taken by the government, organised labour is the only group that can serve as a safe-

PDP convention: Mark, Lar, Mantu, Saraki, Baraje, others meet

A

From Victor Oluwasegun and Dele Anofi, Abuja

lice check points more imperative.

Emmanuel Orker-Jev (PDP, Benue), Jimoh Babatunde (ACN, Lagos), Austin Ogbaburhon PDP, Delta), Fort Dike (PDP, Anambra) and Yakubu Abiodun Balogun (ACN, Lagos) among others argued in favour of a return of the road blocks.

Abimbola Daramola (ACN, Ekiti), said the issue was about weighing available options open to Nigerians, noted that the inconveniences encountered at the road blocks by travelers should be weighed against the sense of security provided by the police check points.

Besides, rather than dismantling the road blocks, government should strengthen the existing structures to be effective in the provision of security on highways, he said.

Opponents of the motion diagreed over the essence of the road blocks.

According to Ayo Omidiran (ACN, Osun), the argument for security on the highways through road blocks by proponents of the

•Adeyemi

•Tambuwal

motion was not justified.

“With the new security challenges confronting us in this country, how many kidnappers or bombers have been apprehended at any o these road blocks?”, she asked.

In his argument against the road blocks, Udo Ibeji (PDP, Abia) wondered when the Police would improve its security system on the road beyond road blocks which, he described as ‘crude’ with its attendant results of traffic chaos and avoidable accidents.

He said the road blocks have been proven to be ineffective against crimes over time, adding, “How many Nigerians have information about road blocks or a phone number of a road block they can contact in time of distress?”

HEAD of the National convention of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the leaders of the party in North-Central, led by the President of the Senate, Chief David Mark, met on Monday night in Abuja to take a position.

It was also learnt that they also agreed to share national offices allotted to the zone by the party leadership.

The meeting, which was held at the residence of the Senate President, was attended by the party’s pioneer National Chairman, Chief Solomon Lar, ex-National Chairman, Senator Ahmadu Ali, the Governors of Benue State, Gabriel Suswam, Ahmed Abdulfatah(Kwara), Aliyu Babangida(Niger), and Jonah Jang(Plateau).

Others were ex-Governor Bukola Saraki, the acting National Chairman, Alhaji Abubakar Kawu Baraje, Deputy Governor of Kogi State, Mr. Yomi Awoniyi, ex-Deputy President of the Senate, Ibrahim Mantu, the Minister of Interior, Comrade Abba Moro, the Minister of State for Trade and Investment, Mr. Samuel Ortom, the incumbent National Vice –Chairman (North-Central), Alhaji Yusuf Ayitogo, Senators and members of the House of Representatives.

From Yusuf Alli, Managing Editor, Northern Operation, Abuja

A source at the session, who spoke in confidence, said: “The leaders agreed to work as a team at the convention and to ensure that the dividends of democracy are brought to the zone.

“Although some of our leaders are already working for one of the chairmanship candidates, Alhaji Bamanga Tukur, there will be a minizonal convention in Makurdi, Benue State on March 21, where a position will be taken on who to support.

“We will also use the miniconvention to ratify candidates for some offices already zoned to North-Central.”

The source gave highlights of how offices were zoned at the meeting as follows: National Vice-Chairman for North-Central (Kwara), National Legal Adviser (Kogi), National Youth Leader ( Niger ), and Deputy National Woman Leader which is being contested by Nasarawa and Plateau states.

The source added: “No office is given to Benue State because it has produced two ministers from the zone and the state is already occupying the Office of the Senate President.”

•Ngige

‘This bill is anti-people, anti-masses, antilabour, anti-Senate and anti-Nigerians.

This bill is not for us’ ty valve of the nation.

He said: “If we decide to stampede and limit their operations, it would be a recipe for crisis.”

Senator Chris Ngige (Anambra Central) delivered what was considered the death nail on the bill when he described it as anti-people.

He said: “This bill is trying to reinvent the wheel. What the bill seeks to propose are already contained in the Trade Union Act. “To my mind, this bill is dead on arrival. We are not going into public hearing because of scarce resources and we should not heat up the polity. This bill is anti-people, anti-masses, anti-labour, antiSenate and anti-Nigerians.

This bill is not for us.”

Those who supported the bill included Senator Ayogu Eze, Senator Ita Enang, Senator James Manager, Senator Magnus Ugbesia, Senator Bassey Otu and Senator George Sekibo.

Mark, who described the bill as “important”, noted that there were many Senators who indicated interest to make contributions.

He said because of lack of time, the debate on the bill would be suspended till another legislative day.

2,000 dump PDP for ACN in Ogun From Ernest Nwokolo, Abeokuta

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O fewer than 2,000 members of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Ogun State defected to the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) yesterday.

The defectors were receivend in Ipokia Local Government Area

by Chairman of ACN Alhaji Tajudeen Bello.

The defectors included former Ipokia Council chair, Adeniyi Hosu; Emmanuel Apari and Taiwo Petogi among others.

According to them, they were leaving the PDP for ACN because of the peace and achievements so far recorded by the Governor Ibikunle Amosun-led administration.

Addressing the defectors at the party secretariat in Ipokia, Bello urged them to join hands with the party leadership to develop ACN and Ogun State.

Bello, represented by Afolabi George, enjoined the new members to uphold the symbol of the party, and to work hard in ensuring that the party wins all elective posts in the forthcoming local government elections.

The Caretaker Chairman, Ipokia Local Government, Samiu Adeyemi, advised the new members to obey the rules and regulations of the party. He said the ACN is a peaceful party.

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14, 2012

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NEWS Two killed in Calabar

Man climbs mast to protest alleged N15m debt

From Nicholas Kalu, Calabar

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WO people have been killed in Calabar, the Cross River State capital, following renewed clashes between two rival cult groups.

On Sunday, a man, suspected to be a member of one of the groups, was killed on Beecroft Street.

The following day, another man was killed on Mayne Avenue in what seemed to be a reprisal attack.

Residents said the cultists were seen moving in groups armed with machetes, guns, axes and other dangerous weapons.

Police spokesman Hogan Bassey said the two rival cult groups were “doing their best to kill themselves.”

Bassey said one of victims was a kingpin of one of the groups.

The spokesman also said several people were injured in the clash and the police have arrested some suspects.

A

MAN created a big scene yesterday at the Federal High Court, Abuja premises.

Musa Inuwa, an indigene of Adamawa State, claimed former Vice-President Abubakar Atiku owes him N15 million for a construction work he did for him.

He approached some men he met in the court around noon, asking for direction to the Litigation Department.

Unknown to him, the men he talked to are judiciary reporters. They asked him why he was going to the Litigation Department.

“I’m here to file a complaint against Atiku Abubakar. The man has refused to pay me the N15 million he owes me for the work I did for him,” he retorted angrily.

Inuwa claimed his petitions to the Police and the State Security Service (SSS) did not receive attention; hence his decision to come to the court.

He headed for the litigation office on the third floor.

Apparently unhappy with the response he got from the officials, Inuwa stormed out of the office.

A source said: “The man had told the officials he had a complaint to file but was asked to go to the Adamawa State High Court.

“This irked him. So he asked to see the Chief Judge.

“The officials insisted that he cannot see the Chief Judge, that he should get a lawyer.”

Believing that Inuwa had left, the officials returned to work.

All of a sudden, there were screams. A crowd soon gathered.

Inuwa, whom the officials thought had left the court, was sitting on top of a giant mast.

For two hours, he threatened to stay there, unless he is attended to.

Speaking in Hausa, Inuwa said as long as nobody was ready to assist him to get his

Governor praises Benin monarch From John Ofikhenua, Okpekpe

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DO State Governor Adams Oshiomhole has told the people of Okpekpe in Etsako East Local Government to thank the Oba of Benin, Oba Erediawa and the people of Benin for the road leading to the community.

He spoke at the 10th year coronation anniversary of the Onwueweko (Clan Head) of Okpekpe Kingdom, Apa Peter Abalumhe Osigbemeh.

Osigbemeh thanked the governor for constructing a road to the community and renovating Okpekpe Secondary School.

The governor urged the monarch and his subjects to thank the Benin people.

His words: “I want to tell you that the person you should appreciate is the Oba of Benin and the people of the Kingdom.

Because the votes that brought me to office was from Benin people and his royal majesty.

“Despite its rigging machines, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) could not defeat us in Oredo, PDP machine couldn’t defeat us in Ikpoba Okha.”

•Inuwa flanked by Odukoya (right) and an official...yesterday From Kamarudeen Ogundele and Franca Ochigbo, Abuja

money, he would remain there.

He told the men and officers from the FCT Police Command, FCT Fire Service, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and soldiers, who were drafted to the scene, that he was prepared to die.

Inuwa said if they were tired of him, they should fix a naked wire to the mast so that he could get electrocuted.

He said the only condition that would make him change his mind is if Atiku and the Inspector General of Police (IG), M D Abubakar, come personally to attend to him.

Shocked by his response, the rescue team decided to trick him.

The Police Area Commander, Sunday Odukoya, was introduced to him as the representative of the IG; another man was announced as the one sent from the Presidency.

But Inuwa was adamant; he refused to come down. Playing along with him, a file was hurriedly brought out by a court official.

Showing the file to Inuwa, the official spoke to him in Hausa.

“This is your file oh! Your complaint has been received,” he was told.

The official begged him to come down so that he can follow up his case.

Inuwa began to climb down the mast. The crowd cheered. It took him almost 10 minutes to climb down.

On getting down, policemen took him to a waiting van.

Police spokesman Moshood Jimoh said the man was not arrested.

“It is against the law to commit suicide. The next thing is to find out what prompted him into taking that decision before we know the next line of action.

“We are going to investigate the allegation of N15 million debt he made. His call logs will also be investigated,” Jimoh said.

But Atiku’s spokesman Garba Shehu said his boss always pays his bill.

“We honestly suspect that this man is mental. If there is one Nigerian who pays his bills, that man is Atiku Abubakar.

“If the idea of this mast climber is to get N15million from the Turaki, this is certainly not the best way to go about it. He should be ignored.”

Aspirant joins Bayelsa race

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RS. EBIKA Wilson Pela from S a g b a m a / Ekeremor Federal constituency of Bayelsa State, has joined the race to fill the vacant seat vacated by Seriake Dickson after he became governor.

Mrs. Pela, of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), is the daughter of DirectorGeneral, GoodLuck Jonathan Campaign Organisation, Fyneman Wilson.

She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science and a Master’s in Public Administration.

The aspirant said she is interested in the affairs of the

•Inuwa descending the mast...yesterday

•’We’ve an impressive scorecard’ •Governor: judge me by my performance

T

From Osagie Otabor, Benin

and a politicisation of our revered traditional institution.

“The Bini are a proud race and cannot stoop so low to the level that Oshiomhole wishes to reduce them.

“The governor must leave the traditional institution out of politics. That institution cannot accept gratification to betray its own.”

Imasuen urged the Bini to resist attempts to buy their conscience, adding that “the money that he throws illegally around could be well used to give scholarships and bursaries as well as establish industries.”

But Commissioner for Information and Orientation Louis Odion denied the allegation.

He said: “The PDP is hal-

lucinating like a tormented soul.”

Odion said Oshiomhole has an impressive scorecard to show for less than four years.

His words: “Oshiomhole does not need to spend money to have people support him.

“We are aware PDP and its expired godfather are running from pillar to post, haunted by the ghost of their sham primaries where a puppet was coronated as itheir flagbearer.

“This wicked lie is meant to be a diversion.”

But at a summit, the governor urged students in tertiary institutions to assess candidates by their previous records in office.

Oshiomhole said he had not solved all the problems in every sector of the economy but his administration had proven that the state can work.

Harcourt

rural populace, especially women and youths.

Mrs. Pela said she would provide boreholes in every community in the constituency.

The aspirant said she would complement government’s effort in providing a conducive environment for teaching and learning in the constituency.

“I will provide empowerment programmes for youths and women; skills acquisition and micro-credit soft loans will also be given to the people,” Mrs. Pela said.

Man remanded for ‘child abuse’

PDP challenges Oshiomhole to debate HE Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo State has challenged Governor Adams Oshiomhole to a Town Hall debate.

The party said the governor should make known his achievements to the people of Edo South senatorial district.

It accused Oshiomhole of using state fund to buy support from traditional rulers in the senatorial district, which has the highest voting population in the state.

A statement by a former Deputy Governor, Lucky Imasuen, said the money was to be given to the monarchs through a prominent politician.

The statement said: “The unwholesome action in the exchange of huge sums of money in addition to cars already given to them by the governor for support are illegal, undemocratic

From Shola O’Neil, Port

The governor, who spoke at the opening of the third State Students Summit, urged the students to educate the electorate to avoid statements of deceit.

He said: “Young people have a duty to enlighten the society, more than anyone else, you know that one way to determine who moves to the next level is to show your report card.

“As we approach the campaigns, it will be less rhetoric but more of showing of report cards.

“The beauty of democracy is that it is a leveller, it is not based on command structure.

“The ballot of the corporal is as potent as the ballot of the general.

“The people must have the right to interrogate those who wish to represent them, that is the irreducible minimum in a democracy.”

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THIRTY eight yearold man, Michael Effiong, was yesterday arraigned at the Esit Eket Magistrate’s Court in Akwa Ibom State for torturing and accusing his sevenyear-old son, Benji, of witchcraft.

Effiong pleaded guilty to the charges of child witch accusation, child abandonment and abuse.

The Police Prosecutor, Ukpabio Samuel, told the court that the suspect was arrested, following a petition by two Non-Governmental Organisations: Child Rights Rehabilitation Network

From Kazeem Ibrahym, Uyo

(CRARN) and Young Humanists Network (YHN).

Magistrate Esther Etukudo remanded Effiong, who hailed from Odoronkit in Esit Eket, in prison.

She berated him for brutalising an innocent child in contravention of the Child Rights Act signed into law by the Akwa Ibom Government.

The magistrate ordered Etukudo to be remanded in prison till March 23, pending when the case would be transferred to the Family Court.

Chief of Air Staff visits Bayelsa From Isaac Ombe, Yenagoa

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HIEF of Air Staff Air Marshal Mohammed Dikko Umar is touring formations in Bayelsa State.

Umar, who is in the state on a two-day working visit, noted the state’s strategic importance to the nation’s economy.

Accompanied by top Air Force officers, the air chief said: “Governor Seriake Dickson represents a huge masterstroke to rescue Bayelsa State from the yawning precipice.

“His administration would quickly tackle the degrading state of affairs in the state.

“With your campaign, titled: Restoration 2012, we are confident that your administration will formulate good government policies for the greater good of all the state.”

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14, 2012

8

CITYBEATS

E-mail:- ynotcitybeats@gmail.com

23 Police College students F arraigned for forgery N

O fewer than 23 students of the Police College, Ikeja, were on Tuesday arraigned before an Ikeja Magistrates' Court, the students charged with the falsification of their educational qualifications.

The trainees among them that Johnson Adejobi, Adamu Yusuf, Jerome Oluwasegun, Ujah Onu, Patrick Adamu, Ebenezer Gana, Ayuba Sanni, Isa Sunday, Zakari Musa, Lawal Adeniyi, were arraigned before Magistrate Olufemi Isaacs. Also arraigned were Samuel Ajaji, Grace Buba, Suraju

Birisiyu, Owolabi Matanni, Adamu Jubrin, Uhini Edicha, Ukwumonu Ibrahim, Ibrahim Abu, Watti Olanrewaju, Oche Rose, Alhaji Adejoh, Yemi Ajayi and John Oko. The accused persons are aged between 22 years and 37 years.

Police prosecutor, ASP Barth Nwaokeye, alleged that the accused persons falsely made statements that they were holders of the National Certificate in Education (NCE)and National Diploma (ND), from various institutions in the country.

According to him, the defendants do not have any of the qualifications and their false statements had

influenced the recruiting officers to enlist them into the Nigeria Police Force.

Nwaokeye said their offence was contravened Section 96 of the Criminal Code, Vol. 44, Laws of Lagos State of Nigeria, 2011.

All 23 accused persons pleaded not guilty to the charge. Isaacs granted the accused persons bail in the sum of N100, 000 each, with two sureties in like sum. He held that the sureties must be resident in Lagos and also have a three-year tax clearance issued by the Lagos State Government.

The matter was then adjourned to April 18 for trial.

OR 11 years Mr Ali Hassan was unjustly detained. But yesterday, the middle-aged man got justice.

The Lagos State High Court, Igbosere, which set him free said his detention without trial, was a travesty of justice.

Justice Christopher Balogun who set him free held that the Lagos Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr Ade Ipaye, was culpable in not taking steps to bring Hassan to trial.

The judge said the Commissioner ought to be aware of such unwanranted detention.

Hassan's release brings to three in less than four months the number of persons freed by the High Court who have stayed beyond 10 years in detention.

Two judges of the court, late last year, set two men free after they

•From right: Chairman Badagry Local Govt Mr Husitode Dosu Moses, Governor Fashola, Commissioner for Water front Infrastructure Development, Prince Olusegun Oniru, Commissioner for Environment, Mr Tunji Bello and Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Mr Olutoyin Ayinde

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HE Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babatunde Fashola, has promised to enact a law that will guide against illegal sand mining in the state. He said the step became necessary to guide against the activities of illegal sand miners whose activities have negatively impacted on the state's waterfront.

Governor Fashola made the declaration yesterday, after inspecting some erosion prone and mining sites at Ajedo community in Badagry axis of the state.

Fashola, who inspected the site alongside other members of the State Executive Council, lamented the rate of degradation and devastation along the coast line.

Fashola goes tough on sand mining

By Miriam Ndikanwu

"They have dug in some places almost four to five metres to the Atlantic, that is danger waiting to happen and here, we have leaders and all sorts of representatives and traditional rulers. So it is a call for community action because the people who are dealing in this illegal and very dangerous business are not alien. They are members of the community here from Ajido to Badagry." he stressed.

He said he expects the leaders of

the community to rise up to the illegality, saying the law enforcement will act with multi disciplinary agency to stem the tide of illegal sand mining.

The governor said the ministry of Environment, Waterfronts Infrastructure Development, Energy and Water Resources and Water and the Lagos State Water Corporation will collaborate to deal with the problem.

The Governor revealed that the state will enact a very drastic and far reaching legislation that will

come up with serious punishment for violators.

"Even if necessary now we will enact a very drastic and far reaching legislation and inflict very serious punishment for those who want to persist in this dangerous acts."

He bemoaned rate of abandoned ships on the coastline, revealing that about 15 ships were seen left without anchor on the coastline. These are some of factors that is damaging our coastline and we will not fold our hands and allow such to continue he said.

Police admits increasing crime rate in Lagos

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HE Lagos State Police Command yesterday confirmed that the rates of car snatching and other related crimes are on the increase.

The command has therefore warned car owners especially those who drive Toyota Camry and Honda, to insure their vehicles with reputable insurance companies, and provide other security gadgets that

By Jude Isiguzo

can neutralize the vehicles, to assist the command to tame the increasing wave of car snatching.

A statement signed by the command's spokesman, Mr Jaiyeoba Joseph, said residents should comply with tis directive in order to assist the police reduce the incidence to the barest.

He said people should also endeavour to report to the nearest police station of any criminality within their domain.

Joseph noted that due to the increase in the criminality been executed through the use of motorcycles, the command in collaboration with the state government have decided on a total ban on operators within the Ikeja

axis.

Areas that will be affected within Ikeja are; Oba Akran, Bank Anthony way, Isaac John, Opebi Link Bridge, Adekunle Fajuyi way, Acme Road, Alausa/Oregun, Simbiat Abiola and Kodeso Road.

Joseph noted that the ban would take immediate effect and advised members of the public to comply strictly with the directive.

LAGOS EMERGENCY LINES STATE AGENCIES 4. KAI Brigade Phone Nos: 080-23036632; 0805-5284914 Head office Phone Nos: 3. LASTMA Emergency Numbers: 01-4703325; 01-7743026 080-75005411; 080-60152462 5. Rapid Response Squad (RRS) 080-23111742; 080-29728371 Phone Nos: 070-55350249; 080-23909364; 080-77551000 070-35068242 01-7904983 080-79279349; 080-63299264

1. Fire and Safety Services Control Room Phone Nos: 01-7944929; 080-33235892; 080-33235890; 080-23321770; 080-56374036.

2. Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) Lagos Zonal Command Phone No:080-33706639; 01-7742771 Sector Commander Phone No: 080-34346168; 01-2881304

070-55462708; 080-65154338 767 or email: rapidresponsesquad@yahoo.com 6. Health Services – LASAMBUS Ambulance Services Phone Nos: 01-4979844; 01-4979866; 01-4979899; 01-4979888; 01-2637853-4; 080-33057916; 080-33051918-9; 080-29000003-5.

Court frees man detained 11 years without trial

By Joseph Jibueze

were jointly detained for 23 years without trial.

Hassan sued Ipaye and the Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Police Command, Mr Yakubu Alkali, for N100million, but Justice Balogun awarded him N700,000.

The judge upheld Hassan's lawyer's arguments in its entirety, saying the former detainee was not properly arraigned since his arrest on June 21, 2001 in connection with alleged murder and armed robbery.

Hassan, through his lawyer, Mr. Ahmed Adetola-Kazeem urged the court to order his unconditional release.

Hassan was a security guard at Babington Street, Iyana-Itire, Lagos when the alleged crimes were committed. He was arrested with four others.

He said by keeping him at the Kirikiri Maximum Prison without trial, the respondents violated his right to human dignity, personal liberty and freedom of movement, guaranteed by sections 34 and 35 of the 1999 Constitution.

The court agreed with him.

A Magistrate Court, Ebutte Metta ordered his remand on July 25, 2001, a month after his arrest.

In a supporting affidavit, Adetola-Kazeem, swore that the police arrested his client on June 26, 2001 for crimes he knew nothing about.

He said the authorities forgot Hassan in prison and even misplaced his remand warrant.

"He has never been to court for the trial of the offence the authorities alleged he committed.

All efforts to get a copy of the charge sheet has proved abortive.

He believes he has been forgotten in the prison custody," the lawyer told the court.

Another bid for KSA, Obey's joint show

A

FTER what seems like a failed attempt in 2010 for a joint performance betwwen the two artistes, efforts are on by another music promoter to fulfill this 39-year-old desire.

These two living legends of Nigerian music, Evangelist Ebenezer Obey-Fabiyi, and Chief Sunday Adeniyi Adegeye, otherwise called King Sunny Ade, after two years of expressing their readiness for a joint performance, came together again, yesterday, in support of the initiative.

Tagged Oleku Concert, a Yoruba language expression for a 'smash hit', the show which is billed for May 27, 2012, organisers explained, will be a celebration of great moments in the life of the Juju artistes.

"Through this historic concert, we shall be celebrating 70 years of Evangelist Ebenezer Obey on earth, and 50 years of King Sunny Ade on stage," explained Otunba Ayodeji Osibogun, Chairman of WTS Broadcast, organisers of the show.

"When we were young, it was our

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14, 2012

9

CITYBEATS

E-mail:- ynotcitybeats@gmail.com

• The security and control centre

Govt takes crime bursting to next level

T

HE Lagos State government has unveiled its Security Command and Control Centre in Alausa. The project, which is Governor Babatunde Fashola's response to crime bursting took off five years ago. It would be managed by Contact Solution Limited, a security firm.

According to the firm's Managing Director, Mr

L

By Yinka Aderibigbe

Abiodun Adeoye, the state would witness a drastic drop in crime rate in the state with the coming of the centre.

Adeoye said: "Lagos metropolis will witness a significant drop in crime rate by as much as 90 percent."

According to him, the centre's operation is entirely toll-free, with the provision

of a three-digit number (112 and 767) to access its services, from any part of the metropolis.

On how the control centre would work, Adeoye said the command and control centre, would also assist emergency agencies capacity to respond within a period of 5 minutes; "to emergencies such as kidnapping, fire incidents, building collapse,

‘Stop indiscriminate dumping of other environmental hazards refuse’ AGOS State particularly during rainy Commissioner for

Information and Strategy Lateef Ibirogba has advised Lagosians against indiscriminate refuse dump inside canals, drainages and other unauthorized places.

He also said that illegal construction along or within the setback of canal and drainages could lead to flooding during the raining season.

The commissioner also enjoined residents to only patronise the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) and other

By Emmanuel Oladesu

authorised service providers for waste disposal, instead of using cart-pushers that may further compound waste management within the state.

Speaking with reporters in his office recently, Ibirogba said it is imperative for the people of the state to be conscious of ways in which they dispose their waste and construct illegal structures because such act has also been the cause of flood and

season.

The commissioner dismissed the fear that there may be serious flood this year. He noted that the state government through the Ministry of the Environment has put adequate measures in place to ensure free flow of rain water by de-silting all major canals within the state, construction of necessary canal and also demolition of structures along drainages and canals within the state.

"Such efforts started months ago and is still ongoing," he said.

•From left: Ebenezer Obey-Fabiyi in a handshake with Chief Sunday Adegeye (KSA)

By Victor Akande

belief that one day Otis Redding and James Brown will play together on stage; it never happened. It was our dream that Fela AnikulapoKuti and Bob Marley will appear together on stage; it never happened. Today, God has given us an opportunity of bringing two of the best musical icons the world has ever known to the same stage, for the first time after

35 years. And this will happen on May 27, 2012 from 2 O'clock to 8 O'clock at the Harbour Point, here in Lagos." Osibogun said, adding that, both musicians will be transmitted live on stage for four hours, to Nigerians and the world outside Both artistes who were present at the unveiling of the project, believe that there is need to satisfy the yearnings of their teeming fans, and to

also rekindle sweet memories of yesteryear in the same way that fashion, and contemporary music are today, adding a touch of 'old school' to their art.

Moses Olaiya, AKA Baba Sala and Fatai Rolling dollars, both trainers of KSA and Obey respectively are expected to be masters of ceremony at the event while another Juju maestro, Victor Olaiya is billed for a special appearance at the show.

armed robbery, kidnapping and cases of gang riot and violence. So, residents are only required to make call to the control centre, while the centre pass the call to appropriate emergency agencies."

He added that emergency agencies such as; Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), Lagos State Ambulance Service (LASAMBUS), Rapid Response Squad (RRS), Lagos State Fire and Safety Service and the State Environmental

Task Force, have "units within the command and the idea is to respond with precision to emergency and crisis situations."

Adeoye who describes the command and control centre as the first of its kind in Nigeria, said with the inauguration of the centre, Governor Fashola has again demonstrated his commitment to deploy technology and explore information and communication technology (ICT) solutions to enhance services to the citizens. He equally commended the cooperation of mobile GSM operators as Airtel, Glo Mobile and MTN on the project.

With their cooperation, Adeoye said: "Crime is no more a big story. He added that with greater security, the state is set to witness economic growth and increasing investment attraction.

Governor Babatunde Fashola at the opening of the centre described the project as another initiative to make the state more secured. He said the state has become more secured in the past eight years.

"Lagos metropolis is more secured to live in and do business."

He added that cases are categorised by medical emergencies, motor accidents, burglaries, traffic robberies, car thefts, vehicle fire outbreaks, building fire outbreaks, civil disturbances, collapsed buildings, abandoned cars, suspicious activity, kidnapping as well as missing persons.

•Faze and Tuface

Tuface, Faze on stage together again

By Ahmed Boulor

BOBBY Brown and Friend's concert at the Port Harcourt leg of their music tour of Nigeria has brought so much with it than the yearning audience could ask for.

The concert which relived the old times of the group, New Edition, also witnessed the performance of the duo of 2face and Faze who performed to the admiration of scores of fans that turned-out to witness the event.

2face and Faze mounted the stage delivering song after song of their old collections while they were still both members of the group Plantaishun Boiz.

But the scores of fans present at the event were all asking for the whereabouts of Blackface who is said to be going through patchy times.

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14, 2012

10

NEWS Ekiti Assembly passes Bill on Social Security for the Elderly From Sulaiman Salawudeen, Ado-Ekiti

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BILL for the sustenance of the social security scheme in which the elderly in Ekiti State have been receiving a monthly stipend of N5, 000, has been passed by the House of Assembly.

The bill seeks to provide a legal backing for state government’s monthly assistance including free healthcare to the elderly as a way of reducing old age poverty in our state.

It was passed yesterday after the Chairman of the House Committee on Public Service Matters, Employment Establishment and Human Capital Development, Sunday Adu, presented its committee report on the bill to the House.

A public hearing had earlier been organised on the bill, where stakeholders, mainly the elderly, expressed joy at the introduction of the programme by the administration of Governor Kayode Fayemi.

The stakeholders pushed for the expansion of the programme for more people to benefit.

Labour, Productivity and Human Capital Development Commissioner Mr. Wole Adewumi, who also attended the public hearing, urged the lawmakers to give the bill accelerated passage.

Some of the targeted beneficiaries appealed to the government to ensure that the programme’s sustenance.

The senior citizens urged the Fayemi administration to put in place measures that would make it impossible for any new administration to stop the laudable scheme.

One of them identified as Pa Samuel confessed that the programme had given him a new lease of life.

Speaking in Ekiti dialect, he said: “Fayemi has done great by making us happy. Whether anybody gives me money or not, I am sure of this N5, 000 monthly pay.

•Dame Jonathan (Second right), acknowledging cheers at the stadium yesterday. With her are Ajimobi (right), his wife Florence (left) and Oloye Akinjide

Jonathan not partisan on welfare, says Ajimobi

F

IRST Lady Dame Patience Jonathan got yesterday a rousing reception in Ibadan, the Oyo State.

She was in the city on a ‘Thank You’ visit to residents for the support given her husband, President Goodluck Jonathan, during the April, 2011 polls and “Peace Advocacy Campaign”.

Residents relegated party affiliation to the background as thousands of supporters of the ruling Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), rival Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and other opposition parties stormed the Ibadan Airport, Alakia, to give Mrs Jonathan a befitting welcome.

They also found their way to the Lekan Salami Stadium, Adamasingba, where a reception was staged for her.

The massive turnout forced security operatives to apply tough measures in allowing people into the main bowl.

Those affected by the security checks include top government functionaries and reporters who were delayed at the stadium gate.

Many of them left the venue in annoyance.

Speaking at the stadium, Governor Abiola Ajimobi described the programme as

Why we introduced Calisthenics in schools, by Aregbesola

O

SUN State Governor Rauf Aregbesola has explained why his administration introduced Calisthenics in public schools.

According to him, the move was meant to engage the minds of the youths and inculcate in them, the culture of cooperation and teamwork.

The governor spoke yesterday at a reception in honour of Cuban calisthenics experts, who arrived in the state for a training-the-trainers’ programme.

Aregbesola said anyone engaged in such noble activities would find it hard to indulge in violent acts, besides the fact that such will help in sharpening the brains as well as encouraging teamwork spirit.

The governor said the technicalities involved in calisthenics display are so attention-intensive that anyone who could blend with the rules would fit in into any positive engagements.

He said: “We must ask our-

From Adesoji Adeniyi, Osogbo

selves why are we doing this?

Anyone who appreciates this will appreciate the need for us to cooperate and will appreciate the need for organisation.”

The governor went down the memory lane about calisthenics displays during the administration of the late Chief Bola Ige in the old Oyo State, saying those were the days when the government cared about the developments of the youths.

The governor said: “It brings joy to those who are watching and satisfaction to those who are participating and happiness to everybody.

“It has been established that if our youths are given that kind of training at that formative, impressionable stage of their lives, they will grow up to be responsible people and they will understand the need for cooperation and they will not be attracted to violence.”

•Grateful ‘First Lady’ thanks all for support From Bisi Oladele and Oseheye Okwuofu, Ibadan

another Women’s Day activity, given the huge number of women in attendance at the advocacy campaign.

He hailed the President for shedding party sentiment while considering the welfare of the 36 states.

He said: “By this visit, you have made a huge deposit into the emotional account of the people of Oyo State. The government of President Goodluck Jonathan is political party neutral when considering the welfare of the 36 states. Our resolve to partner with the Federal Gov-

T

ernment still stands.”

Ajimobi also praised Mrs Jonathan for her women empowerment initiative.

Mrs Jonathan thanked the people for their votes in the April, 2011 presidential election, adding that she was proud that voters did not let her husband down.

She said that the Women for Change and Development Initiative is not a political party but a Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO) with peace as its focus.

She said: “I did promise that the administration of President Jonathan will allocate more political space to the women. This he has

faithfully done. Today, I’m glad to announce that in the history of Nigeria, this is the first time that a total of 13 women are serving in the cabinet as ministers and special assistants. This number accounts for 32 per cent.

“I hope that Governor Abiola Ajimobi will also not be discouraged. Like Oliver Twist, we wish to appeal to him to give women more positions. This will enable women to have stronger voice.”

At the event were wives of the Senate President, Mrs Helen David-Mark; female ministers and other female top government functionar-

ies.

Ajimobi’s wife, Florence led her counterparts from Ondo (Oluwakemi Mimiko) and Ogun (Funso Amosun), to receive Mrs Jonathan.

As early as 7.30am, politicians, including local government chairmen, members of the Assembly, party leaders from both the ACN and PDP, members of the state executive, including commissioners and business executives, had converged on the premises of the airport to receive the ‘August Visitor’.

At the main gate leading to the tarmac, everybody was subjected to thorough screening by policemen and soldiers.

Stop heating up polity, Ondo ACN warns ex-council chair

HE Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), in EseOdo Local Government Area of Ondo State has warned the former interim chairman of the council, Mr. Kennedy Perete to watch his utterances.

The ACN leaders in the area denied a media report that there was a crisis in the local chapter of the party. The report was credited to the former council chief.

In a statement, the party’s Assistant Secretary, Abiodun Omiyerun, and Legal Adviser Ojubulu Experience said members of the party are united and working strategically for the success of the ACN at the next election.

The party leaders expressed readiness to back whoever gets the nod of the party’s national leadership as the flag bearer at the governorship election expected to hold before the end of the year, contrary to a report that the party chieftains in Ese-Odo are against the candidature of an Akoko indigene.

The statement reads: “It is very unfortunate that someone like Perete is making frantic efforts to cause mayhem in our party by writing a baseless report. “Though, we are not surprise about his present attitude. When he was the chairman, he never thought of how to initiate any meaningful project in the community.

“But, he preferred to spend the little stipends released by Governor Olusegun Mimiko on non productive ventures.”

Irun-Akoko declares for ACN

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ORE than 300 politicians, mainly members of the ruling Labour Party (LP) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have defected to the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) at Irun-Akoko, Ondo State.

It was at the much-awaited affirmation of Prince Lanre Adeyemi (also known as Obalola) on Sunday at a reception organised for him at Oke-Irun/Surulere Ward of the community.

Adeyemi, a former member of the House of Representatives, was welcomed into the ACN fold by broom-waving party supporters.

Adeyemi is seen in his constituency as the forerunner of progressive and empowerment politics.

Speaking at the occassion, Otunba Kali Afe and Azeez Awe, both of the ACN, stressed that “Akoko is now completely ACN.” They said: “The election victory of ACN in Akoko Northeast and Northwest is now assured as the past performances of Adeyemi will guarantee victory.”

The duo described Adeyemi, “who introduced dividends of democracy into Akoko politics”, as an exemplary politician worthy of emulation.

Adeyemi thanked members of the ACN for their steadfastness in keeping alive the political tradition of Akokoland.

He likened Akoko ACN to the era of one-

The party queried where the former council got money to establish a newspaper to support the Governor Segun Mimiko administration, believing he would be made a commissioner.

Pledging to deliver Ese-Odo

man standing in Lagos State.

“Asiwaju Bola Tinubu’s courage of sticking to tradition has brought to bear the growing and winning party the ACN,” Adeyemi said.

He enjoined the defectors to use their franchise as their authority and power to remove the polity stigma in Yorubaland by voting solidly for the ACN in the state to fully join the O’DUA family.

Explaining the meaning of “cosmetic” performance of the present administration in the state, Adeyemi said the ordinary person in the street has no access to information on government funding.

He said: “This administration, to the enlightened, is a ghost of good governance. You cannot adequately measure the performance of a government without assessing the quantum of revenue accruing to it. The state was economically healthy when this administration took off, but, today, we are now in the red, despite the hundreds of billions of Naira that have accrued to the state.

“The people of Ondo State should be made to know our economic status to appraise this government. The number of unemployed graduates in the state is one of the highest in Nigeria.

“Therefore, this administration must be called to question. But go home first and preach the gospel of the ACN to those still going astray to come into the progressive political family.”

to the ACN at the coming governorship poll, the party lamented the oil producing area of the state has been frustrated by the attitude of the ruling Labour Party (LP), which according to them, wasted their resources on the beautifica-

tion of the Oba-Adesida road for the past three years.

“The people are looking up to a new government that will restore their hope. Mimiko and his aides have neglected our area. We are tired and calling for change.”

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14, 2012

11

BUSINESS THE NATION

E-mail:- bussiness@thenationonlineng.net

New products to carry SON’s code

By Toba Agboola

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HE Director-General, Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), Dr Joseph Odumodu, has directed that henceforth, all new products, be they imported or manufactured locally, would carry codes approved by the SON. He said the measure is aimed at reducing the number of sub-standard products in the market from its current 70 per cent to about 30 per cent before the end of the year.

Speaking with reporters in Lagos, Odumodu said this is another method the agency wants to engage to check the influx of fake products. He said at 70 per cent of consumer products in the country are sub-standard, compared to 85 per cent last year.

“This year, our target is to reduce that further by half, which means that by the end of this year, we should be looking at about 30 per cent and we have already lined up programmes to ensure that happens.

“I also want to inform you that, henceforth, you will be seeing code on some products in the market.

This is another way to checkmate those dealing with substandard goods”, Odumodu said.

He stated that 80 per cent of imported consumer products are mainly from Asian countries. He blamed the influx of some of these sub-standard products for the death and non-performance of many indigenous companies, which could not compete favourably with products dumped on Nigeria.

In the last few months we have lost millions of dollars to shut in oil wells as a result of the activities of oil thieves who breach our crude lines to steal oil .

-Austen Oniwon, GMD, NNPC

Non-oil sector drives N Nigeria’s growth

IGERIA’s economy measured by her Gross Domestic Product (GDP)-rose to 7.68 per cent in the fourth quarter of last year, compared with 7.40 per cent in the third quarter, the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) said yesterday.

Statistician–General, NBS, Dr. Yemi Kale, who disclosed this, however, said the growth was driven by stronger performance in the non-oil sector, particularly telecoms.

Nigeria pumped an average of 2.4 million barrels per day in the last three months of the year, down from 2.6 million barrels daily a year earlier due to production outages - the latest being the temporary shutdown of facilities at Bonga, a 200,000 barrel per day (bpd) facility, which supplies close to 10 per cent of Nigeria’s total crude output.

Besides, Kale said sabotage leaks resulted in Shell Development Company of Nigeria declaring a force majeure on its Forcados export programme

From Gbenga Omokhunu, Abuja

for the last quarter of last year.

Force majeure excuses a party from liability if some unforeseen events beyond its control prevent it from performing its obligations under the contract.

Typically, force majeure clauses cover natural disasters or other “Acts of God”, war, or the failure of third parties such as suppliers and subcontractors - to perform their obligations to the contracting party.

But the non-oil sector, according to a data obtained from the bureau, grew by 9.07 per cent in the fourth quarter, higher than the 8.93 per cent recorded in the same period in 2010.

“This growth was largely driven by improved activities in the telecommunications, building and construction, ho-

tel and restaurant and business services,” the NBS said.

Nigeria’s economy grew 7.36 per cent in the full year 2011, down from 7.98 per cent 2010, largely in line with expectations. The decline in growth reflects global economic sluggishness. Growth in Nigeria outperformed most developing economies.

Nigeria is relies on oil exports for more than 95 percent of its foreign exchange revenues but only 15 per cent of GDP. Agriculture is the largest contribution to GDP, making up about 40 per cent of it.

Telecoms surged in Nigeria in the past decade after private firms were allowed to take advantage of the huge mobile phone market potential in the continent’s most populous country.

“This sector continued to perform impressively and has

remained one of the major drivers of growth in the Nigerian economy, with its contribution to total GDP increasing continuously,” the NBS report said.

“The telecoms sector recorded a real GDP growth of 36.31 per cent in the fourth quarter of 2011,” it added, but did not give a comparative figure for the previous quarter.”

He, however, noted that the oil sector benefited immensely from the high international crude oil market price and the exchange rate regime of naira against the dollar in spite of decline in the daily average production in the quarter under review. While the oil sector contributed about 14.64 per-cent to real GDP in the fourth quarter 2010, the contribution in fourth quarter of 2011 was, however, 13.54 per cent.

MARKET CAPITALISATIONS NSE -N6.503 trillion JSE -Z5.112trillion NYSE -$10.84 trillion LSE -£61.67 trillion RATES Inflation -12.6% Treasury Bills -7.08% Maximum lending22.42% Prime lending -15.87% Savings rate -2% 91-day NTB -14.18% Time Deposit -5.49% MPR -12% Foreign Reserve $34.6b FOREX CFA 0.2958 EUR 206.9 £ 245 $ 156.4 ¥ 1.9179 SDR 241 RIYAL 40.472

By Dupe Olaoye-Osinkolu

L

AGOS State Governor Mr Babatunde Raji Fashola (SAN) is set to redeem Retirement Bond Certificates worth N1, 720, 596, 964. 28 to 350 workers, who have diligently served the state in various capacities and are now proceeding on retirement.

Director-General, Lagos State Pension Commission, Mr Rotimi Adekunle Hussain, told The Nation that the 350 retirees will be presented with the Retirement Bond Certificates tomorrow at the Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA) Hall, in Ikeja.

While explaining that the Retirement Bond Certificate represents accrued pension rights made up of gratuity and pension entitlements before March 31, 2007, when the Contributory Pension Scheme started in the state, he said the event is a follow-up to the fourth Retirement Bond presentation held on October 21, last year.

He lauded the governor for continuously showing his commitment and support to the scheme. He added that since inception, the state government has ensured that public servants have absolute comfort at retirement through regular payment of the state’s monthly contribution into the Retirement Savings Account of Civil Servants while salaries are given deserved priority.

New energy drink makes debut

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DATA STREAM COMMODITY PRICES Oil -$123.6/barrel Cocoa -$2,686.35/metric ton Coffee - ¢132.70/pound Cotton - ¢95.17pound Gold -$1,800/troy ounce Rubber -¢159.21pound

Lagos to pay N1.7b to 350 retirees

• Group Managing Director, Sterling Bank PLC, Mr Yemi Adeola (right), being received by Oyo State Governor, Senator Abiola Ajimobi, during a courtesy visit by Adeola to the governor in Ibadan.

Licensed power producers doubt take-off date

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LICENSED power pro ducer, Ray Oguego, has doubted the target date for the Partial Risk Guarantee (PRG) requested from the Federal Government’s licensed independent power producer by the World Bank.

Oguego, who is the Executive Director, Supertech, spoke yesterday at the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission’s (NERC) first quarterly licensees meeting.

He said his reservation is anchored on the slow pace with which the issue is being addressed.

He stated that the process of obtaining the PRG, which is a necessary component of the new drive by the Federal Government to those issued with electricity generation licenses, has been slowed down given that the Word Bank’s bureaucracy was tak-

From John Ofikhenua, Abuja

ing close to two years for the guarantee to be concluded.

Oguego said: “Before now, tariff and issue of gas used to be our top challenges, but that is being taken care of by the Federal Government.

The biggest problem we have now, which is painfully slowing down the pace of our projects, is the bureaucracy of the World Bank in endorsing the Partial Risk Guarantee. “For instance, when we submitted our request, it took, like four months to get their response.The bank would have it on its web site for 90 days before the board will then meet to take a final decision. The board meets once in three months. The process takes close to two years and our timetable to fire our

plant is October.”

The same opinion was shared by several representatives of other licensees, including Dr Alex Okereke, Chief Operating Officer of Zuma Group.

Licensees, who made presentations, said they have made appreciable progress and that they would start generating power before year end.

In his remark, the Chief Executive Officer of Nigeria Bulk Electricity Trading,Rumundaka Wonodi, said the key part of the PRG is the environmental impact assessment, which the World Bank insists, should be done according to its standards. He urged the companies to liaise with the bank for a template for other companies that have completed

theirs to hasten the process.

Speaking earlier, NERC Chairman Dr Sam Amadi, said the meeting was called to get a first hand report on the progress made so far, including their constraints and suggestions of ways to solve them. He said the commission was worried that after over five years of issuing licenses to about 60 private power firms, they are yet to generate power.

The bulk trader was created by the National Electricity Sector Reforms Act of 2005 to address the issue of distribution firms, which buy power from independent power generating companies, but are unable to collect enough revenue from consumers to pay for what they bought.

TC energy drink has made its first debut in Nigeria at the ongoing Lagos International Polo tournament.

It is a product of the XTC Establishment in Austria and has been involved in energy drink production in the last 18 years.

XTC is being sold in the United States, United Kingdom, Germany, Denmark, Cyprus, Chile, Canada, Argentina and the Middle East.

The brand has four variants – classic, light, red cactus and guarana. The brand, according to a statement, is of top quality and very rich in taste.

The XTC brand is being sold

by Midwestgate Limited, who owns the franchise for the African operation, including Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya and South Africa.

As part of regulatory approvals, the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control in Nigeria (NAFDAC) and the Ghana Foods and Drugs Board (FDB) has certified it and the product will soon be launched in Kenya and South Africa.

As part of its sports sponsorships, the management of Midwestgate Limited has promised to use sports as a unifying platform to anchor its events in its brand building endeavors. “That is why the brand has decided to make its debut at the ongoing polo international tournament,” the statement said.

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THE NATION WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14, 2012

BUSINESS NEWS

House queries $105m price tag on NITEL, Mtel

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HE House of Repre sentatives is set to take on the Federal Government over the price tag placed on liquidated Nigerian Telecommunication Ltd (NITEL) and its Global System for Mobile Telecommunication(GSM) arm, Mtel.

The Federal Government liquidated the national carrier following its failure to find a buyer for the ailing telecoms firm.

Tajudeen Yusuf (PDP, Kogi), who raised a point of order under matter of urgent public importance yesterday, noted that the beleaguered national assets were grossly under-valued.

While he questioned the rationale behind the price tag placed on the telecoms companies, Yusuf noted that the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) charged telecoms firms about $450million for a GSM licensee.

“If a GSM licensee is being obtained for N450million, how can both NITEL and Mtel, including their assets

• Probes Pensions today From Victor Oluwasegun and Dele Anofi, Abuja

and infrastructure be placed on $105million?”

The last GSM licensee was obtained for $400million, while the earlier licensees were sold for $285millon and $200million.

The motion was slated to be debated today by the Speaker, Aminu Tambuwal, after it was unanimously supported by the lawmakers.

Meanwhile, the House of Representatives committee on pension is to start a three-day investigative hearing into pension administration in the country today.

This follows the different revelations of unethical practices plaguing the sector.

To this end, the committee has summoned stakeholders in the sector to appear before it today at the investigative hearing.

Those expected to participate in the hearing include pension

policy formulators and administrators, particularly those from National Pension commission (PENCOM), the apex regulators, the Head of Service Pensions, Police Pensions, Military Pensions, Customs, Immigration, Prisons Pension and NUC Pensions.

They are to appear before the committee to give account of their activities and also provide solution to the problem of pensions administration as well as the fraud plaguing the sector in the country.

Deputy Chairman of the committee, Okwu Samson, who spoke on behalf of the Chairman,Ibrahim Kamba, said they were neither duplicating the efforts of the Senate that is already investigating the issue nor opposing them.

“We do not have anything against Senate, but what the committee is saying is that the team should be allowed to clean up. In any case the committee would commence the public hearing today after which the decision of the committee would be made public,” he said.

Agency warns petrol station operators She said the government is HE Department of Weight and Measures, on standards not that of confusion when it

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a unit of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry has warned operators of petrol stations to strictly adhere to the ministry’s regulation standards.

The Deputy Superintendent, Lagos Zone of the Weight and Measures department, Mrs. Crescential Erukpeme, during the department’s routine inspection and monitoring of some filling stations in Lagos yesterday warned that they would not take lightly to filling stations that violate the rules.

She said the department decided to inspect some filling station around Lagos to check the level of compliance of retail outlets with weight and measures of petroleum products sold to customers.

She said the Weight and Measures department has a constitutional role in the monitoring and control of accurate measures both in upstream and downstream

By Emeka Ugwuanyi

sector of the petroleum industry.

She said: “This is provided in the pre-shipment inspection of Exports Act cap P25 of 1996. The Act empowers weight and measures department to work with other agencies at terminals to oversee and ascertain accuracy in quantity to be exported.

“This department has not played this role due to some bottleneck created by agencies that were there before the appointment of weights and measures as one of the inspecting agents.”

She added that the essence of their outing was to sensitise the public about the activities of the department, noting that some filling stations were in the habit of under-dispensing and cheating customers, which the department is out to checkmate.

comes to checks and balances in weight and measurements of commodities and products, adding that the department would not spare any filing station found cheating customers.

“We are not going to spare any filling station and depot using substandard measures to sell products. We are totally against filling stations, depots and manufacturers short-changing customers in whatever form. “You cannot give people the quantity of products that do not correspond to the amount they paid for.

“We, at the legal metrology department, have set up a monitoring team that will visit filling stations across the country to ensure adequate measurement of products to customers,” she said.

Erupkeme said the department was ready to enforce sanity at all levels through effective monitoring of the weight and measures used for petroleum products.

Fed Govt to complete Ajaokuta

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HE Ministry of Mines and Steel Develop ment yesterday announced that plans are underway to complete Ajaokuta Steel Company Limited.

This is geared towards the diversification of the revenue base of the country.

The ministry also plans to complete the steel making shops, their auxiliaries and electrical control systems to facilitate the production of 1.3 million tonnes of steel per annum.

The Minister, Musa Sada, who disclosed these at the Second National Steel Summit in Abuja, added that the government intends to continue promoting policies aimed at catalysing indigenous capacity expansion of steel production to achieve 12.2million tonnes capacity by 2020.

He noted that the ministry

From John Ofikhenua, Abuja

also intends to “continue to develop the national steel raw materials reserves by strengthening the National Steel Raw Materials Exploration Agency, Kaduna. “ The agency, according to him, has made discoveries of higher grade iron ore deposits and other steel making raw materials such as Manganese, Chromite and others.

In his breakdown of the steel target, he said Toto in Nasarawa State is targeted to produce 10.6million tonnes 33.5 per cent Fe, while Gidan Jaja in Zamfara State is expected to contribute an estimated reserve of 20million tonnes 70 per cent Fe. He also said Lamba in Bauchi State is estimated to churn out a estimated reserve of 70million tonnes, 70 per cent Fe while Gidan

Buzu in Yobe State is with an estimated reserve of 70million tonnes, 65 per cent Fe. Sada noted that the ministry intends to re-establish the government shareholding interest in the Guinea Iron Ore Mines to ensure availability of high grade iron ore to the steel companies, especially the Delta Steel Company for which the original involvement was made.

Besides, the Federal Government is planning to strengthen the National Metallurgical Development Centre (NMDC), Jos to carry out research studies on local solid minerals and metallurgical processes.

Underway, too, according to Sada, is “removing competitiveness of value added products to stimulate domestic and export demand of minerals and metals products.”

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14, 2012

13

ISSUES Bonded Terminal operation is globally recognised by the World Trade Organisation (WTO), United Nations Committee on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) and the World Customs Organisation (WCO). They, together with the Inland Container Depots (ICDs), Dry-Dock and Off-Dock facilities, form an integral part of ports operations in the supply chain of international trade. This vital arm of the ports system is facing challenges of what stakeholders call 'poor and inconsistent government policies’ and the activities of concessionaires/terminal operators, reports UYOATTA ESHIET.

• Congested port. Inset: Empty bonded terminal

Bonded Terminals: Jobs, investments B under threat

ONDED terminals are facilities situated outside the ports for warehous ing of goods from the ports until they are taken to their destinations. The operators have Customs approvals for storage and for its officers to examine and clear goods from such facilities. Once goods arrive at these warehouses, agents are allowed to go there to clear their goods.

Bonded terminals help to increase capacity of sea ports under pressure, enabling cargo to be whisked out with minimal delay. They are seen as vital logistic nodes in the movement of cargo from the ports to the hinterland. They offer a large range of management services, including loading and discharging cargo.

Before the concessioning, the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) needed bonded terminal operators to tackle the problem of congestion at the ports. With the 100 per cent examination and low equipment profile, the ports suffered block stacking of containers. It was so bad that some importers spent more than a month trying to locate their containers after their arrival in the port.

In responding to the situation, the management of NPA encouraged investors to

Investments threatened

establish bonded warehouses. These bonded terminals were given the status of ports with customs personnel and all other security operatives in place.

But the situation is changing. Private terminal operators have taken over operations from the NPA. They no longer allocate cargo directly to the bonded terminals. This is threatening the existence of the terminals.The biggest problem is that private terminals operators, mostly multinationals, also own bonded terminals outside the ports.

The Secretary, Association of Indigenous Bonded Terminal Operators in Nigeria, Haruna Omolajomo, accused the Federal Government and theNPA of abandoning them after they were encouraged to go into the business and help the government resolve congestion challenge in the ports. In 2001, foreign ships coming into the ports had to wait for months in the seas before they could berth.

Omolajomo said before the port concession of 2006, NPA used them to decongest the ports

on several occasions apart from the fact that Bonded Terminal operations is an international arrangement adopted for efficient ports operations.

Haruna said 383,788 Twenty Equivalent Units (TEUs) were transferred to their members, which ranged from seven to 14 between 2001 and 2005. The report showed that in 2001, NPA sent to the bonded terminals 11,231 TEUs, while in 2002, they received from NPA 66,116 TEUs. In 2003, 2004 and 2005, the bonded terminals received from NPA 73,520 TEUs, 102,402 TEUs and 130,519 TEUs. Haruna said NPA used the bonded terminals to decongest the ports and through their efforts NPA was able to run the ports smoothly, until the concessioning in 2006.

Haruna said they have done everything possible to have a functional working relationship with the concessionaires, but all to no avail as they have shown that they are not ready to work with the indigenous bonded terminal operators to fast-track cargo clearance.

There is palpable fear among the terminal operations.The reason is that about 10,000 jobs and N1.2 trillion invested by the indigenous bonded terminal owners may be wiped off, if they don't receive enough patronage.

Job creation The association said the least number of direct employees by any of the bonded terminals is 250. Its secretary said in all, about 10,000 jobs are hanging in the balance. This number does not include the haulage, IT and security services’ providers and others who make their living offering various services around the terminals. He said, at the moment, about 60 per cent of the direct employees are already threatened.

Reactions from NPA The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) General Manager Public Affairs, Chief Michael Ajayi, said his agency is not the cause of the problem of the bonded terminal operators.

• Continued on page 14

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14, 2012

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ISSUES

•MD NPA, Suleiman Omar

•Chairman STOAN, Dr Vicky Hasstrup

•Haruna

•Amiwero

Bonded Terminals: Jobs, investments under threat • Continued from page 13

He said since the ports have been concessioned, NPA is no longer involved in the running of the ports in terms of cargo allocation and cannot force the concessionaires to send containers to the bonded terminals, as it was in the past.

Ajayi said the bonded terminals came as a child of circumstance. He said their existence was necessitated by the congestion, which ravaged the ports from 2000 to 2002, adding that it was the congestion that forced NPA to work with the bonded terminals operators.

Now that the ports have been concessioned, there was nothing NPA could do for the bonded terminal operators. “NPA has withdrawn from operations and we don't regulate anything”, Ajayi stated.

A stakeholder, who spoke anonymously, said before now, NPA hastily gave approval to interested investors to set up off-dock facilities, which were to act as buffer zones that would reduce pressure from the conventional ports, which were then threatening to burst with over-flowing cargoes.

He said there was an available window created by the banks to grant loans to support the creation of the facilities. The operators were smiling to the banks as they were inundated with patronage. He said it was not proper for NPA to turn around and say they could not help the bonded terminal operators any more.

The concessionaires’ position The concessionaires gave the same reason for their actions. They said they came to Nigeria to do business. They have invested, and as any other businessman or woman, must make profit on their investment. Also, the main reason for treating the indigenous bonded terminal operators the way they do is that there is no law mandating them to send containers to off-dock facilities.

They said it is not their duty to create business for the off-dock terminals as they have invested in the ports. At the ENL Terminals, the General Manager, Mark D. Walsh, said his terminal has just started receiving containers. Out of the 400 containers they first received, Walsh said his terminal has sent out 52 to a designated off-dock terminal. He said that is the way ENL intends to operate. For now, he said, there is no law mandating the concessionaires to send containers to the bonded terminals.

General Manager, Business Process of the APM Terminals, William Rose, repeated the argument of his peers, saying APMT has enough capacity to handle the containers that come to their terminals and that there is no law mandating them to send certain percentage of containers to the off-dock facilities.

At the Five Star Terminals, Captain Jon Jon Peters, General Manager (Operations), told The Nation that his terminal adopted a different strategy. He said they sent out between 50 and 70 per cent of their consignments to three designated off-dock terminals.

He revealed that almost every shipping agent has their off-dock facility where they direct their containers or cargoes to.

Contributions of associations Besides the immediate resolution of the decongestion, the associations have helped in stemming the diversion of Nigeria bound cargoes to neighbouring countries. They have

created over 10,000 jobs, including both highly skilled, semi-skilled and unskilled in the over 20 bonded terminals they had at a time. Omolajomo said the association has also helped to develop indigenous capacity through training of their staff as well as those of government agencies, such as the Customs.

The association’s secretary said the members were making over N1 billion for the government yearly.

The situation now The bonded terminal association gave a gloomy picture of the situation prevailing in their terminals. Omolajomo revealed that after the ports concession seven years ago, none of the indigenous bonded terminals operate at 50 per cent capacity. At the moment, out of 22 members in the association, five have already closed shop and laid off their workers while two are on the verge of closing.

At present, 15 of the remaining indigenous bonded terminals are still functional, operating at between two per cent and 35 per cent capacity. Out of this 15, five have only empty containers stored in their yards. The only bonded terminal that operates at about 60 per cent capacity, according to Omolajomo, is SIFAX. This is so because SIFAX’s bounded terminal also doubles as a concessionaire, operating as a port and cargo point at Tin Can Port Complex.

These 'outer port' operators are indigenous people, who were encouraged to invest in the ports development in 1995, but have been abandoned.

The concessionaires have jointly refused to pass excess containers to the indigenous operators despite the imminent congestion facing the nation's seaports.

However, a source suggested that the cheaper handling charges of the bonded terminals may be yet another reason the concessionaires have refused to send containers to the bonded terminals.

Prince Olayiwola Shittu said despite the observations made by the stakeholders in the maritime sector to the government on the then proposed concessioning of the ports, the government went ahead and concessioned the ports without taking input from the stakeholders. This, according to Chief Patrick Chukwu, was done by the government with ulterior motives. He asked: "Who is the chairman of Maersk Line and APM Terminals? Who is involved in Grimaldi Line and PTML Terminals? Who is in charge of Intels operating at Onne Port?

These and other concessioned ports and terminals are owned by former government leaders, retired generals, senators and their friends. This goes to show that the concession was done with ulterior motive by the government.”

The capacity utilisation of the indigenous bonded terminals as per vessel allocation

is under 15 per cent. It ranges from 2,000 to more than 5,000 containers, but what each of them handle now is below 15 per cent.

At present, some bonded terminals operate atp as low as five per cent. A visit to some of these 'outer ports' reveals that most of them have been rendered useless and their equipment rusting away because they have not received containers for a long time, while at the same time, the major ports at Apapa, Tin Can and others, are filled up with every available space taken over by containers while the concessionaires appear helpless.

The Group Chairman of FANO and DAMSCO Group, Ambassador Damian Emeka Obianigwe, told The Nation that the last time his terminal, received a container from the ports was one and a half years ago, precisely on August 23, 2010. Investigations revealed that FANO Bonded Terminals is under Apapa ports. At present, Apapa port is congested while the bonded terminals that are meant to take over the excess are lying fallow, or at most, some of them are being used as empty container storage facilities. The same situation was observed at Tin Can ports. Stakeholders around these ports, who refused to be named, said this is because of greed on the part of the concessionaires and corruption on the part of some government officials. The officials, who are supposed to take actions, may have been compromised and the concessionaires are not willing to work with the indigenous operators except maybe they are forced, the source stated.

Response by terminals To cope with the burgeoning traffic of international trade, private terminal operators have undertaken several initiatives to bring the port sector at par with global standards. Efforts are under way not only to create additional capacity, but also to increase the efficiency of the existing capacity in the sector. These contribute to the low efficiency of the ports.

Position of other stakeholders Major stakeholders in the nation's maritime sector said the problem primarily lies with the government in policy formulation and NPA in policy implementation.

Mr Lucky Amiwero, the National President of the National Council of Managing Directors of Licensed Customs Agents, Prince Olayiwola Shittu, the National President of Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents and the National President of National Association of Approved Freight Forwarders, Mr Eugene Nweke, in different interviews agree that

‘There is palpable fear among the terminal operations. The reason being that about 10,000 jobs and N1.2 trillion invested by the indigenous bonded terminal owners may be completely wiped off, if they don't receive enough patronage’

the sector's problems mostly have to do with government’s inconsistencies and by extension, NPA's inefficiency.

Amiwero faulted the claims by NPA that there was nothing they could do about ensuring that containers were sent to the bonded terminals for their survival. He revealed that Section Seven E(1) and E(2) of the Act that established NPA states that NPA shall provide facilities for berthing of vessels, regulating traffic and cargo among other things.

Amiwero also said Section 7(C) of the NPA Acts gives NPA power to ensure the efficient management of port operations, optimal allocation and use of resources, diversification of sources of revenue, to guarantee adequate returns on investments to contribute to the well-being of the Nigerians. He asked: “Is NPA by this action against the bonded terminals contributing to the well-being of Nigerians?” As far as he is concerned, Nigeria still operates the most expensive ports system in the world. Ghana even with their kind of concession in place has taken steps to reserve about 30 per cent of all incoming cargoes to the indigenous operators and both the country and its citizens still benefit from the remaining 70 per cent handled by the concessionaires, he added.

Resolving the problem Every respondent agrees that there is an urgent need for the Federal Government in the spirit of its transformation agenda, to review concessioning of ports not minding who owns what. Amiwero said Ghana has put in place safeguards that make the country and its citizens the overall beneficiaries of their concession. He said in Ghana, certain percentages of the cargoes that come to it are reserved for the indigenous bonded terminal operators, noting that a firm such as APMT operates there.

He said it is more of a deliberate policy of a government that wants to develop its country and empower her citizens.

Omolajomo said the government should put in place a policy that will be of benefit to its members and foreign concessionaires in line with the local content agenda of the government. He said the government should carry out a comprehensive review of the exercise to identity the factors that militate against the growth and development of indigenous operators in the maritime industry. The maritime industry, which is the life wire of the nation's economy, that even the oil industry depends on, should not be left in the hands of foreigners alone. Indigenous players should be encouraged and protected by the state to take active part in it, Haruna said.

Shittu said the attitude of the concessionaires is working against Nigerians in several ways. He listed one of it to include the 48-hour cargo clearance target set by the government. He said it is only in Nigeria that shipping companies don't have relationships with the bonded terminals and wants the government to act fast to forestall further crisis in the sector.

He also said while some concessionaires have long overshot their capacities and are actually operating at over 150 per cent at the moment, others are not. He urged the government to act fast to nib the crisis in the bud and restore sanity to the ports.

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14, 2012

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THE NATION WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14, 2012

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14, 2012

17

MONEY

Banks move to correct gender imbalance on boards I

N deference to the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), banks have started taking a census of their gender distribution to address the imbalance in the composition of the boards and managements.

According to the CBN’s directive, the banks’ boards and managements should comprise 40 per cent women.

The Managing Director, Union Bank Plc, Mrs Funke Osibodu, said her bank was taking the census of the male-female distribution.

Speaking at the Women in Management and Business conference in Lagos, Mrs Osibodu said after cross-checking the bank’s statistics, she was shocked at the variance between the number of male and female staff, adding that the imbalance would be corrected.

An insider in Access Bank and Standard Chartered Bank, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the institutions were re-

• SEC may ask quoted firms to comply

By Collins Nweze viewing their male-female distribution. Other banks have also convened meetings to decide processes and plans that will assist them address the gender imbalance in their outfits.

CBN Governor Sanusi Lamido Sanusi said the regulator would, this week, issue a circular, demanding that banks make public their levels of compliance with the policy. He said the CBN would also ensure that banks included their level of compliance in their annual reports.

Sanusi explained that the move was aimed at boosting the Federal Government’s programme on job creation and poverty allevia-

tion. He hinted that the Bankers’ Committee has declared this financial period that of women empowerment. He said a subcommittee had been constituted to enable banks achieve the objective.

“The Bankers’ Committee has made 2012 the year of women empowerment. A sub-committee on women empowerment has been formed. We are working at establishing a special fund by the end of the year that will provide credit facilities to women at a single digit interest rate.”

He said political leaders should spell out roles for women during their campaigns. But he advised women to be hardworking as such positions could only be

given to them on merit. Sanusi said no woman would be promoted because she is a woman, adding that women have the requisite skills and intelligence to excel in their careers.

He said CBN was working on achieving between 40 and 50 per cent board membership for women before the expiration of his tenure.

Sanusi advised the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to prevail on quoted companies to implement gender- sensitive policies that include giving strategic positions to women. He said doing so would help bring out their full potential to contribute to the economy’s development.

Sanusi said the apex bank’s policy should not be seen as a favour, but as a means of providing an environment for qualified women to take advantage of opportunities available.

Institute to try tax touts

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• From left: Vice-Minister of Foreign Trade, Kingdom of Netherlands, Simon Smits; Nigerian Ambassador to Netherlands, Alhaja Nimota Akanbi; Managing Director, Fidelity Bank Plc, Reginald Ihejiahi and Netherlands Ambassador to Nigeria, Bert Ronhaar, during a business visit to Nigeria.

NIPOST plans facilities upgrade for mobile payment

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HE Nigerian Postal Service (NIPOST) is upgrading its facilities nationwide to foster the mobile payment system, it was learnt.

The Nation gathered that NIPOST is re-modelling its over 3,000 branches nationwide to enable them to serve as offices for mobile payment operators.

Part of the measures include the beautification of the six-storey NIPOST head office in Lagos, and the provision of necessary facilities for the building. This is geared towards helping the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) in its cashless banking initiative.

Speaking during a stakeholders’ forum in Lagos, a senior official, Shared Services Office, Governor’s Department, CBN, Mr Chidi Umeano, said there was an arrangement between CBN and NIPOST to ensure the growth of cashless banking.

Umeano said the arrangement would ensure that both agencies shared facilities that would promote cashless banking initiative.

He said CBN had discussed with the NIPOST management on the possibility of using its offices nationwide for mobile banking activities. CBN’s decision, he said, was informed by the fact that NIPOST has abandoned offices that could be upgraded for mobile payment needs.

By Akinola Ajibade

Umeano said if the arrangement worked according to plans, NIPOST offices would play key roles in the growth of mobile payment services.

He said: “Instead of people buying stamps in NIPOST offices, they would go there to buy e-values, and later convert it to cash across the country.”

He said provisions have been made for payment options, such as Automated Teller Machine (ATM) cards, Point of Sales (POS), Web Banking, among others.

Also, the Deputy Post MasterGeneral, Mr Yashin Bitiyong, confirmed that NIPOST had initiated discussion with the CBN and the 23 banks to promote mobile banking services.

Bitiyong said when the discussion sails through, NIPOST‘s customers would be able to key into networks provided by the banks and the epayment service providers to get the services they want.

“The banks and the e-payment service providers would provide networks that would facilitate mobile payment services. NIPOST would key into networks to ensure that its customers wherever they are, link up and get the services they are looking for.”

He said NIPOST is not only discussing with CBN and the banks, but its building relationship with

technology providers to achieve the desire results. Bitiyong said the agency would use its relationship with the Universal Postal Union (UPN) to advantage by opening its own software soon. He said NIPOST is going to have its own software, adding that the body will use the software at the rural areas.

“We want to open our network to receive messages from the telephone, in order to enhance the growth of the mobile payment services,” he added.

•Mrs Osibodu

AKE tax collectors and consultants will, henceforth, be prosecuted to deter others, the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN) has warned.

Its President, Mr Femi Jegede, said the body has raised a disciplinary committee to look into cases involving unregistered tax officials.

He said the committee would ensure that fraudulent tax practititioners are brought to book, noting that some people have been tried in the past for impersonation offences.

Jegede said: “When I was a registrar of the institute, we prosecuted five people for professional misconduct. We are making efforts to elevate the practice of taxation to an enviable height.”

He called for the establishment of a special court to try tax evaders, adding that tax evasion should be seen as a serious criminal offence.

Jegede decried a situation where tax evaders were made to pay only a fine, arguing that the development would not stop them from committing the offence in the future.

“The issue of allowing tax evaders to pay N50,000 or N100,000 for (individuals) and N500,000 for corporate entities depending on the magnitude of the offence would not deter people from evading taxes. If a person evades a tax of N500milliion, he can even pay more than N100,000 fine. He is ready to pay N500,000 as fine. But in a situation where tax evaders were tried in a special court and sentenced to jail, it would serve as a big lesson for others. Since people are not ready to serve a jail term, they would stop evading taxes,” he

By Akinola Ajibade

added.

According to him, a data base for paying adults and a Tax Identification Number (TIN) must be given to people to ascertain the number of those paying tax.

Jegede said efforts were being made to have joint tax system operations in West Africa. He said Nigeria and Ghana have strong taxation institutes, adding that other countries are evolving in that area. He said the measure would lead to regional integration, as well as making tax administration stronger.

The Lagos State government has warned residents against paying levies or taxes to wrong people.The government said there were cases of residents being harassed by people not accredited to collect revenues on behalf of the state.

Chairman, Lagos State Inland Revenue Service, Mr Babatunde Fowler, advised people to report those suspected to be collecting revenue illegally to the appropriate authority for immediate actions.

Fowler, who spoke at the forum, said the government understood the concerns of tax payers.

He said the government would rid the state of touts, who operate as tax agents.

On multiple taxation, Fowler said the government has fashioned out plans to prevent people from paying double taxes. He said multiple taxation arises in areas where Lagos and Ogun State share boundary. He said the two states had met, and a committee set up to resolve differences in taxation.

The committee, he said, would find an amicable means of resolving the issue.

Bad loans: Firm reaches agreement with AMCON

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ONIQUE Oil Services Limited ha announced it has resolved outstanding issues with the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON), which led to its takeover by the corporation.

The oil firm disclosed this in a statement. It states: “Settlement was reached on March 6 in the suit filed

by AMCON against Tonique Oil Services Limited. The Federal High Court Lagos presided over by Hon. Justice Okechukwu Okeke, upon urging of both counsel to AMCON and Tonique Oil Services Limited, adopted the terms of settlement executed by the representatives of both parties.

“This, being an amicable resolution to the suit instituted by AMCON against Tonique Oil Services, which culminated in the

orders of interim possession and mareva injunction by the court in February 2012.”

With this development, the company said the orders of interim possession of properties and mareva injunction earlier issued by the Federal High Court are automatically discharged. “All banks have already been informed

by Tonique Oil Services of this development,” the statement said.

AMCON, in a statement last month, announced the take-over of properties of Tonique Oil Services.

The corporation claimed that its action was based on the order of the Federal High Court, adding that it had purchased the non-performing loans of the oil servicing firm.

The corporation said: “Debt recovery proceedings were

initiated before the Federal High Court pursuant to the special procedure prescribed under the AMCON Act against the oil firm whose debt, which was in excess of N200million remained unpaid after several demands.

“Preliminary steps in furtherance of the debt recovery action necessitated the application by AMCON for ex-parte orders of possession of the immovable properties of the customer pledged as security for the debt and also injunctive Mareva orders freezing the funds of the debtor company.”

Going forward, AMCON said it would this year; focus on the most critical statutory imperative of recovering and realising debts owed it through the acquisition of non-performing loans from Nigerian banks.

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14, 2012

18

MONEY

Inflation will raise food prices, say experts P

RICES of consumables will shoot up unless the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) adopts measures to contain rising inflation, experts have said.

Stakeholders, who spoke to The Nation, said any further increase in the Consumer Price Index (CPI) would automatically push up the rate of inflation. CPI is a parameter used to survey and analyse food prices.

It is defined as the basket of goods consumed by the populace, irrespective of their status. It is the major index used in determining the level of inflation, and its movement from 10.3 per cent in December to 12.6 per cent in January has become a major concern.

The Executive Secretary, Association of Foods, Beverages and Tobacco of Nigeria, Mr Aderemi Adegboyega, said the development does not augur well for a consuming economy such as Nigeria.

Adegboyega said an increase in the CPI means there is more money chasing fewer consumables, such as garri, beans, rice, yam, flour and bread, among others.

He said: “Once the CPI shoots up, that suggests an increase in inflationary trend. When this happens,

By Akinola Ajibade

consumers would struggle to buy the few available foods in the market. When the demand outstrips supply, prices would definitely go up. I think it is not an ideal situation for the consumers, and the economy in particular. The high level of infrastructural decay made companies to spend more on power, logistics, among others.

With this, companies are left with no option than to add to the cost of produced goods.”

He said companies were producing at exorbitant prices, adding that they would capitalise on any opportunity to recoup money spent on investment, adding that consumers would buy food at far higher prices, if the trend continues.

Also, the former President, Institute of Directors, Dr Olusola Dada, said any major development in the food sector would have spillover effects on other aspects of the economy. Dada said a rise in inflation would affect the capacity of Nigerians to buy some goods.

“Increase in the CPI translates to increase in inflation. This means prices of foodstuff will not only go up, but would affect the ability of people to buy. Once consumers cannot feed well, they would not be productive. If they are not productive, they cannot invest. For instance, consumers would not be able to invest in bonds, shares, and other trading instruments in the market when they cannot eat well.

This implies that the issue will have a vicious cycle on the economy,” he added.

Also, an economist with the Lagos Business School, Dr Nweze, said the government has not been able to put inflation at a single digit.

He said people can forgo a lot of things, but not food.

According to him, a sharp increase in the prices of food materials will affect the consumption power of an average Nigerian.

“If we continue to experience increase in the consumer price index, the tendency for inflation to go up is high. That shows people would use more money to buy small quantity of food materials. In any case, the CPI has been increasing in the past few years. It is an indication that efforts have not been geared toward taming the inflation,” he said.

CIBN seeks skilled manpower THE Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN) is working on processes that will engender quality and skilled manpower in the banking sector. The institute expressed its commitment to producing adequate human capital with the requisite professional skills and competency to drive the banking industry.

CIBN President Laoye Jaiyeola said there was the need to work out plans that would encourage specialisation in the banking sector. He said the agency has set up five work groups that would draw up specialties where bankers can deploy, effectively, their competencies. He said the banking industry is not a one-cap-fits-all sector, calling for the setting up of faculty boards to look at diverse areas of banking.

He also said it was obvious that there is a dearth of skilled manpower in the sector, making it needful for practitioners and regulators to enhance skills and know-how of bank workers.

‘Political will key to addressing tax issues’ THE political will on the part of the government and state of the economy are critical issues that determine contribution of taxation to government coffers, experts have said.

Kunle Quadri, president, West African Union of Tax Institutes (WAUTI), said the government needs to execute tax laws to drive its revenue base.

Speaking at the conference in Lagos, Quadri said taxation is also another avenue for government to diversify its revenue base.

Director-General, Nigeria Institute of International Affairs, Prof Bola Akinterinwa, who spoke on the theme: Diversifying the revenue base within the ECOWAS sub-region: Taxation as a veritable tool, said networking in tax issues will assist Nigeria and other West African countries improve on their revenues.

He said taxation is a mathematical accounting, but the success of it depends on political will and decision of people in power. He regretted that the revenue base of ECOWAS is not diversified, essentially because intra-ECOWAS trade is mostly informal.

Akinterinwa said that there is still large volume of transaction that are unaccounted for and not taxed within the region. “Underground Economy in West Africa is more pronounced than recorded trade. This does not allow for taxation for official diversification of the revenue base. West Arica share of commodity export is declining as it has made little progress towards diversifying its production base to cover new activities,” he said.

‘How to reduce lending rates’ THE cost of lending by banks can be reduced if banks can share some of their key infrastructure that increase their cost of operations, analysts have said.

Chief Risk Officer, Nigeria Export-Import Bank (NEXIM Bank), Emmanuel Abolo, said the cost of lending always rise in line with banks’ cost of operation, and that shared-services is the viable means of reducing such costs.

Speaking at the Nigeria Development and Finance Forum, Abolo said though banks think of supporting entrepreneurs, but the cost of lending has been a major roadblock. He said by sharing key infrastructure and co-operating with one another, banks in the continent will have their cost reduced drastically.

Analysts insist banks need to share services in terms of Automated Teller Machine (ATM) usage. In many cases the machines are mounted too closely, with basic infrastructure repeated in all the cases. By sharing and networking the infrastructure, the banks will save a huge fund, which could reduce cost of credit.

Cash-less banking: CBN, VISA move to reduce card fraud • From left: Head, Global Market, Standard Chartered Bank, Mr David Adepoju; Deputy Consul-General, People‘s Republic of China in Lagos, Jiu Quan; MD/CEO, Standard Chartered Bank Nigeria, Mrs. Bola Adesola and Head, Origination & Client Coverage, Mr Ade Adeola, at the Chinese New Year celebration/dinner hosted by the bank in Lagos.

IFRS implementation will enhance market discipline, says Sanusi

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HE adoption of the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) will institute market discipline and reduce uncertainties, which limit the risk of unwarranted corruption in banking, Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor Lamido Sanusi has said.

Sanusi said by adopting the IFRS, the regulator has taken steps to integrate the banking system into global best practice in financial reporting and disclosure.

Speaking during a presentation at the Warwick University, London, Sanusi said the regulator recognises the need to balance the objectives of meeting genuine currency transaction demand and combating speculative market behavior that may negatively affect economic growth and stabilisation measures.

He said the new cash withdrawal policy will ensure that a larger proportion of currency in circulation is captured within the banking system, thereby enhancing the efficacy

By Collins Nweze of monetary policy operations and economic stabilisation measures.

The Nation learnt that banks, which have adopted the IFRS that requires disclosure on a range of issues including risk management measures and changes in accounting policy want to ensure that their results for this year are compliant with the international guidelines.

Already, FirstBank, Access Bank, Guaranty Trust Bank among others, have adopted the IFRS. A common financial year-end, December 31, was also introduced by the regulator to ensure even comparisons of results within the banking sector.

Nigeria’s minimum reporting standards only demand the quarterly publication of gross earnings, pre-tax profit and net profit, leaving analysts with little on which to gauge future trends for the business or make international comparisons.

Chairman, IFRS Interpretations

Committee, at the International Accounting Standard Board (IASB), Bob Garnett, advised banks to step up their processes of compliance because of adverse implications of default.

Garnet, who spoke at the IFRS Conference in Lagos, said accounting has become less risky than it was before the introduction of IFRS. He explained that the global knowledge and expertise reduces the risks of getting things wrong adding that the adoption of the model will further enhance transparency and facilitate the restoration of investors’ confidence in the on-going efforts to sanitise and rebuild the financial services sector.

He further stated that the adoption of the IFRS will enhance transparency and improve reporting standards that would help prevent or reduce systemic risks. He said investment in infrastructure is also key in ensuring that foreign direct investment (FDI) is attracted into the economy.

THE drive for a cash-less economy has prompted the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and VISA Incorporated to devise means of strengthening e-payment platforms to minimise fraud and protect cardholders.

Visa Country Director, Sub-Saharan Africa Ade Ashaye, confirmed the development during a training for financial reporters in Lagos.

He said VISA in collaboration with CBN has introduced a National Fraud Forum to ensure the safety and integrity of the local card payment system infrastructure.

“Tackling potential fraud is critical to the success of any market. We are able to call on global experts to come to Nigeria to, not only share their experiences, but also to start an ongoing conversation as part of the constant battle against fraud. The Fraud Forum is a vehicle to ensure that the entire market benefits from collaborative efforts,”Ashaye said in a statement.

According to him, some of the initiatives that Visa implemented five or six years ago have resulted in Nigerian Visa cards now having lower fraud rates than the rest of the region and the global average.

“Ensuring we continue to work to global best practices is the best way to maintain consumer trust in the system as we grow card usage,” he said.

Visa’s approach to security includes strategies to “Prevent, Protect and Respond.” Prevent means minimising fraud in the payment system by building policies, tools, technologies and strategies that help tackle fraud before it happens.

African mobile money to hit $3b by 2015 MOBILE money operator revenue will rise to $3 billion by 2015, a study by Pyramid Research has said. Although Safaricom’s M-Pesa in Kenya has long been the lone success story in the mobile money universe, successes are being recorded in Nigeria, Uganda and Tanzania with similar mobile money offerings.

MTN Uganda’s mobile money service accounts for three per cent of all airtime sold on its network, and Vodacom’s M-Pesa service in Tanzania currently has six million subscribers with exponential growth of 600 per cent experienced in the past year alone. Currently, mobile money offerings remain limited and are concentrated in just 22 of the more than 50 African countries.

Analysts said the African mobile money market has the potential to grow to a money-making market, but operators, banks and regulators need to work toward developing an enabling environment for business models that meet service providers’ revenue demands.

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14, 2012

19

EDITORIAL/OPINION EDITORIAL FROM OTHER LAND

COMMENT

Commendable judgment •Vindication came at last to travelling ACN officials and punishment to the Kogi Police

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USTICE Inyang Edem Ekwo sent the right signal to the corridors of power that the era of official impunity in the deployment of officers and men of the Nigeria Police Force is over. In the judgment he delivered at the Federal High Court, Lokoja, Kogi State, he ordered the police to pay N11million compensation to two sets of Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) members whose fundamental human rights to freedom of movement, association and right to human dignity were grossly encumbered.

Two suits against the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) and Kogi State Commissioner of Police were separately filed by the ACN members from Lagos and Osun states. They were in the course of the pursuits of lawful journeys at different times to Abuja illegally stopped, persecuted and held hostage by the police for hours under harsh weather conditions, without any lawful or

‘We call on the police force to prove, for once, to be a responsible institution by paying without delay the N11 million that was awarded against it. The force that is responsible for maintaining peace and order will be sending a wrong signal to the public if it flagrantly disobeys court judgment against it. It is high time institutions and agencies of government in the country put a stop to the official apathy shown to judgment debts’

justifiable reason.

The Lagos ACN members comprising Rasaq Oyesegun Folami, Omotosho Oluwaseyi, Olanrewaju Savage, Kolapo Olatunji, Theophilus Femi Kolawole, Olawale Aina and Hakeem Subair, Babajide Alli-Balogun, Yakub Akilagun, Lukman Subair, Omoniyi Olayemi, Babatunde Abodunrin, Ayo Adesanya, Segun Desalu, Babatunde Lawson, Azuka Igbue and Lawal Yusuf were on their way to witness the Code of Conduct Bureau arraignment proceedings of Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, their leader, in Abuja, before they were arrested, brutalised/molested and falsely imprisoned by the police. The court recognised this constitutional infraction when it was approached and it awarded them N6million compensation.

The Osun ACN members, including Prince Benson Adekunle, Jimoh Olatunde Olayemi, Prince Akin Omolaoye, Ayo Laloye, Oyedeji Abayomi and Rabiu Yekeen on the other hand were going for a meeting at the party’s Abuja national secretariat when the police arbitrarily stopped them around Lokoja from proceeding with the journey. The court, when approached, equally awarded them N5million compensation. The illegal acts were committed by the police between September 21 and October 26, 2011.

We commend this judgment. Indeed, we are more enthralled with its coming at this time because of its moral symbolism over a rotten system that has come to see impunity as a routine. The ruling People’s Democratic Party (PDP)

has over time taken delight in deploying the police and other security agencies to persecute and intimidate the opposition.

Thus, the Lokoja judgment is a soothing balm over a rupturing systemic bone. The 1999 Constitution (as amended) does not provide for discrimination under whatever guise. So, why is the police force usually deployed to hound people because of their political affiliation?

In any decent country, opposition usually should be allowed to burgeon because it is a necessary compliment for national renewal. We expect that people, irrespective of their political inclination or world view, will henceforth be allowed unimpeded lawful movement to any part of the country. Nigerians should not be discriminated against or subjected to inhuman and degrading treatment simply because they hold divergent political opinions with those in power.

We call on the police force to prove, for once, to be a responsible institution by paying without delay the N11 million that was awarded against it. The force that is responsible for maintaining peace and order will be sending a wrong signal to the public if it flagrantly disobeys court judgment against it. It is high time institutions and agencies of government in the country put a stop to the official apathy shown to judgment debts.

If the Rule of Law and democracy must truly develop in the nation, the culture of respect for court judgments must be imbibed. Also, the streak of executive lawlessness and reckless show of power and disregard for the Constitution must forthwith be stopped.

Obasanjo at 75 •The former president still has a chance to redeem his image. Happy birthday all the same

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T would be a hyperbole to claim celebrations marking former President Olusegun Obasanjo at 75 were a non-event. The celebrator did a dance to the altar in a church he reportedly founded; and a couple of newspapers made some tidy sum as advertising revenue, from congratulatory adverts of Obasanjo at 75.

But as a media event befitting the longest-serving Nigerian Number 1 citizen dead or alive, it was definitely a near non-event. In any case, it was a far cry from those presidential days, when the high and the mighty, with the media in tow, fell over themselves to record events like the Presidential Library launch, among others.

If Obasanjo’s birthday received less media play, it just emphasised the transience of power and the imperative of working hard at worthy legacies. These make lasting headlines, long after the klieg lights of power must have faded away. Chief Obafemi Awolowo, though dead, is a living example!

It is from this sober perspective that Obasanjo at 75 must be viewed: not necessarily to spoil his fun (we wish him a happy birthday and many more years yet of excellent and robust health) but to raise the bar of good governance and best global practices.

More than any Nigerian living or dead, Obasanjo has the singular honour of being a vital player at crucial historic junctures of his country. He was not part of the first two coups in 1966. But he was there as the lead victorious player, taking the Biafran surrender instruments, at the

end of the Civil War (1967-1970), a direct consequence of the mismanagement of the two coups.

Neither was he part of the coup that overthrew Gen. Yakubu Gowon. Yet, he ended up among the top military officers the successful coup makers handed over power to. He not only survived the abortive coup that took Gen. Murtala Muhammed’s life, he ended up getting promoted as head of state.

Aside from the initial hee-haw of the Association for Democracy and Good Governance in Nigeria (ADGN) days, Obasanjo was not really part of the prodemocracy struggles, except as a highprofile prisoner of Gen. Sani Abacha. But when democracy berthed in 1999, he not only had the singular honour emerging the first elected president of the Fourth Republic, he went on to have second term, the only person so far in this dispensation.

Politically, Obasanjo is the luckiest Nigerian, dead or alive.

Though the benevolent gods put cracked palm-kernels in Obasanjo’s mouth, he clearly refused to be humble as that popular Igbo saying counsels. Each time he mounted the power stage, he was high on a sense of the messianic, which is no crime. The snag, of course, was that despite all the roaring tempest of a messiah-come-to-town to change things for the better, it was more of the old perilous ways.

He always had the right sound bites in government. But those bites translated to pretty little. Obasanjo’s corruption of his war against corruption is a classical example. It is instructive that instead of

taking a rest, the former president is still literally running helter-skelter, trying to influence, by hook or by crook, political events. His reported square-up with other power blocs in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), over the coming convention to elect a new national chairman, is a case in point.

Why has God kept Obasanjo alive and in good health, despite the tempest of his long political and public life? Is it to gift him the opportunity to redeem himself and make peace with God and with man?

The former president might be much diminished now, no thanks to his lessthan-stellar tenure as two-term president.

But he still has a chance to redeem himself before the inevitable. We commend this advice to Obasanjo at 75, even as we wish him a happy birthday.

‘Why has God kept Obasanjo alive and in good health, despite the tempest of his long political and public life? ... The former president might be much diminished now, no thanks to his less-than-stellar tenure as two-term president.

But he still has a chance to redeem himself before the inevitable. We commend this advice to Obasanjo at 75, even as we wish him a happy birthday’

The Nuclear ‘Implementation Study’

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RESIDENT Obama and his advisers are in the middle of a once-in-a-decade study of the nuclear arsenal and nuclear war plans. For strategic and budgetary reasons, they need to further reduce the number of deployed weapons and the number kept in reserve. If this country can wean itself from its own dependence, it will be safer and will have more credibility in its efforts to contain the nuclear ambitions of Iran, North Korea and others.

Twenty years after the end of the cold war, the United States still has about 1,790 strategic nuclear weapons deployed and 2,800 more as backup. (Another 3,500 are retired and awaiting dismantlement.)

In his 2002 nuclear posture review, President George W. Bush declared that nuclear weapons had a “critical” role in defending the United States and its allies against nuclear-armed enemies and might be needed to deter and even punish foes wielding chemical, biological or conventional weapons. In his 2010 review, President Obama downgraded the importance of nuclear weapons, somewhat, to a “fundamental role.” He ruled out the use of nuclear weapons against nonnuclear countries, even if they attack the United States with unconventional weapons.

Now Mr. Obama has to make the practical choices to implement his strategy. He took a first step in 2010 when he signed the New Start treaty with Moscow to cut the number of deployed long-range nuclear weapons to 1,550 each, from 2,200, by February 2018.

But that agreement followed the same pattern as all of the coldwar and post-cold-war arms treaties. It said nothing about the estimated 11,000 nuclear weapons that the two sides keep as backups — the so-called hedge. Nor did it address America’s 500 short-range nuclear weapons, which are considered to be safely guarded, or Russia’s 3,000 or more, which may be vulnerable to theft.

Mr. Obama must lead the way to deeper cuts in all three categories. For deployed strategic weapons, the Pentagon and national security aides have prepared options for the next round of negotiations with the Russians: a new ceiling of 1,000 to 1,100 warheads; 700 to 800; or 300 to 400. Even the lowest number is more than any potential foe, except Russia, possesses.

China, the only major power expanding its arsenal, likely has 240 to 300 nuclear weapons in its arsenal, but experts say no more than 50 are capable of hitting the United States. Pakistan has perhaps 90, all aimed at India; North Korea has fewer than a dozen, none with the ability to hit the United States. Iran has no weapons, so far.

Just how many does the United States need? Many experts believe the United States can easily go down to 1,000 warheads in total — deployed and stored — without jeopardizing security. We agree.

Washington and Moscow have committed to undertaking a new round of negotiations, but domestic politics in both capitals are interfering. The two sides need to get things moving. Another treaty will take years to complete, so Mr. Obama should also look seriously at moving more quickly to the New Start levels and challenge the Russians to do the same. Both countries need to destroy all of their tactical nuclear weapons — no commander would ever use them on a battlefield — as quickly as possible.

The United States and Russia also have about 1,000 weapons each that are ready to fire at a moment’s notice. Mr. Obama should take as many as possible off of “hair trigger” alert and urge the Russians to do the same.

Many Republicans have reacted hysterically to the idea of further cuts. Senator James Inhofe has accused Mr. Obama of “catering to his liberal base,” which he says wants to “unilaterally disarm.” That is absurd. The stakes are too high for this to be treated as a partisan issue. Mr. Inhofe and others ignore the fact that both Presidents Bush made deep cuts in the arsenal — through negotiations with the Russians and unilateral reductions in the hedge.

Right now, the United States is on track to spend billions of dollars over the next 20 years to modernize and replace its aging nuclear delivery systems — submarines, intercontinental ballistic missiles and bombers. Reducing the arsenal will make it easier to rein in that bloated budget and shift resources to more critical needs.

President Obama helped drive up those costs when he promised to spend $88 billion over 10 years on the nuclear weapons labs to win Republican support for the last treaty. He began paring back last month when he delayed funding for a new plutonium facility and for a new class of nuclear submarines. More and deeper cuts are needed.

Senator Tom Coburn is one of the few Republicans who argue that the country does not need and cannot afford its huge arsenal.

He has come up with a plan to save $79 billion over the next 10 years, including reducing the number of deployed strategic warheads to 1,220; cutting the intercontinental ballistic missile force to 300 from 500; trimming the “hedge”; and eliminating three of 14 ballistic nuclear submarines. He also favors delaying the purchase of new bombers until the mid-2020s.

A nuclear “implementation review” may sound arcane, and arms control talks may sound like a cold-war anachronism. They are not. This is President Obama’s opportunity to reshape the post-cold-war world to make it fundamentally safer. He needs to seize it.

New York Times

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THE NATION WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14, 2012

20

EDITORIAL/OPINION

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IR: The nation was again thrown into deep mourning when members of Boko Haram sect unleashed terror by bombing St. Finbarr’s Catholic Church, Rayfield, Jos, Plateau State, on Sunday.

This time around, the suicide bombers attacked the church during mass, killing an eight-year-old boy and 10 others while four persons were reportedly killed in reprisal attacks in various parts of the Jos metropolis.

The spate of church bombing is becoming intolerable. On February 26, it was the turn of people of the Church of Christ in Nigeria (COCIN) headquarters, where top public officials usually attend, including state governor, Jonah Jang and former governors Solomon Lar and Joshua Dariye.

The continued onslaught by the Boko Haram sect on innocent people should be stopped without delay. Those behind it should be made to realise that the use of dastardly acts such as violence and bombings would do very little to engender the expected sympathy from the people for a number of reasons.

First, the group remains faceless.

Most of those fingered to be promoting the activities of the sect have not been forthcoming in terms of what constitute their genuine demands, what is being propagated is the belief and notion that western education is evil.

But the questions Nigerians are asking are: If western education is evil, what alternative is being proposed? Is the assemblage of bombs not an activity in scientific process?

Secondly, all the major attacks have been unleashed on churches, schools, bars and public places, which clearly have nothing to do with agitation for the abolition of western education. In fact, some of

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Still on church bombings the sect members have been found to be well educated.

Again, many people believe that the violent attacks could be borne out of political differences. In other words, Boko Haram is merely a platform to settle perceived political issues.

I wish members of Boko Haram could just take a break, assess the impact of their previous attacks and the decide whether a new approach should be tried, especially when nothing much has been achieved, aside from the blood of innocent

people killed, properties destroyed and the bad name given to a sick nation.

This frightening dimension of persistent strikes is worrisome.

When we ponder over the calamity of an attack in one part of the country today, we get to read of another woe and one gets troubled as to whether our nation is heading for an end of the road.

It is good to remind them that the ground norm all over the world is that the best solution at resolving crisis is through negotiation and dialogue. This is the option Boko

Haram should unreservedly adopt if truly has any case but this cannot be possible as long as it remains faceless.

That is where those clamouring for dialogue with the sect have missed the point. You don’t discuss with an anonymous person or body.

Therefore, Boko Haram should come out and face the world.

On the part of government, more proactive efforts should be channelled to taming the horrific onslaught of the deadly suicide bombers. Security issues are best not discussed on pages of newspapers. It

How to fix Abia’ deplorable roads

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IR: The deplorable nature of Aba roads which manifested some years after the reign of the first civilian governor of old Imo state, Dr Sam Mbakwe is inexplicable. In fact, it is better witnessed than imagined.

But this pitiable situation could not have snowballed to this level if the successive governors started the stitching in time in order to save nine. All same, the milk has been spilt, no need to cry over it.

However, I would like the governor, Dr T A Orji to hearken to my humble advice which I believe would be beneficial to the erstwhile coveted city in particular and the state in general. This advice should not be ignored because any attempt to rehabilitate all the bad

roads this year might end up in achieving little or nothing, unless he wants to do patch-patch work, which I do not believe he would do. For the work involved is tremendous.

There are about five major roads or more that are economically viable, both to the residents and the entire state. They are: Ohanku, Obohia, Ngwa, Faulks and Cemetary roads. These five roads should take priority in view of their strategic economic position in the state.

Ohanku and Obohia roads lead to Ohanku and bohia towns and other surrounding towns and villages in Ukwa East. They are all food producing communities.

Farmers find it very difficult to

transfer their agricultural produce to Aba town, due to the deplorable state of the roads. Their alternative means of reaching Enyimba city is to take circuitous route through Obehie/Port Harcourt roads which is of course time wasting and expensive.

Ngwa and Cemetary roads lead to Ngwa road and Cemetary markets respectively. The importance of these two markets to the state cannot be over emphasized.

Finally, Faulks road that leads to the Ariaria International Market should be visited in view of its economic importance to the state.

I wish our amiable governor good luck.

• Nkemakolam Gabriel Warri

becomes effective and impacting when our law enforcement agencies begin to make intelligence gathering and surveillance their modus vivendi.

• Adewale Kupoluyi Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Ogun State

Re: Our Govt, not South Africa is to blame

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IR: I write in response to a letter published in The Nation on the above subject. I believe it is high time that the citizens of Nigeria initiate the patriotic zeal from within themselves and not wait for the government to do something to awaken us. All citizens owe a duty of patriotism irrespective of how bad it may be.

We are always quick to point out the faults of our government but do we really look at how we have all contributed to the present mess? The type of leaders a country gets is just a reflection of the state of mind of the population as a whole; after all the leadership is a sample of the whole population.

For Nigeria to progress everyone needs to add his own quota by doing what is expected of us and more. If this is done, we would have an aggregate of good behaviour permeate our system and this can spark up an attitude of “rightness” If in the past Nigeria never used to respond to acts of hostility by other countries and the present Government is doing something about it, then a pat on the back would not be misplaced.

• Lateef O. Suberu Lagos

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THE NATION WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14, 2012

EDITORIAL/OPINION

Police checkpoints; no, patrols, yes; the South also suffers and is equally angry

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PROBLEM with Nigeria is supervision. The Ogere blockade is a disgraceful testimony to lack of effective, sustainable supervision. Look at the Tony ‘personal banking’ of the Marinho Pension Funds. How can N16b or N23b leave a government for private account without alarm? It goes back to when governments allowed private banks to hold government money. No government money should be in any private bank. Who owns, who audits these accounts? Are they slush funds?

As a monetary, economic and anti-corruption strategy, we must reverse the current policy on allowing government funds to be placed in commercial banks for a ‘finders’ fee. Is this not why police salaries were three months late. Shame! This was the excuse for the police tollgate/checkpoints to mop up N1224b/annum from motorists. The cost to Nigerians of those police checkpoints included bribery, naira losses, accidents, stray bullets and deaths and the psychological disgrace inside the Nigerian child seeing a policeman taking a bribe. The transport community has probably already saved N1billlion.

The removal of checkpoints has sped up Nigeria by 50 -100%, barring accidents and armed robbers capitalising on the infrequent police patrols – a police plan? IGP Abubakar must map out increased mobile patrols. Where are the 200,000 police withdrawn from checkpoint duty? On leave? The IbadanAbeokuta road had no policeman or police vehicle. The police can change with good leadership, but it must continue the protective role to truly launder its image.

In regard to federal government money, mentioned above, all such money should be withdrawn from private banks and held by CBN and its state CBN branches for paying local contractors and salaried workers to access. The private banks have gone mad with greed. Worldwide, what business can sustain a 21-25% interest rate along with paying 5-10% of income for generation of power at home and office? Nigerians

de suffer O! Imagine where Nigeria would be if the interest rates were just 10-12%. All government money must be declared to CBN and the state Houses of Assembly, though they are no saints either. This will hasten recovery of the naira by withdrawing billions from circulation. Today the huge hole in the compulsory deductions in the pension funds is an insult to pensioners and reveals criminal negligence and a lack of checks and balances in supervision just like the probe into the petroleum rot. Another probe, another cabal.

The price of being a poor Nigerian, North or South is the same. Ordinary northern and ordinary southern Nigerians are traumatised as 50% of budgets at federal, state and LGA are squandered, misdirected in the corruption mists causing misery. For every borehole, classroom block or hospital, three would have been achieved in another country. We ‘celebrate’ ordinary ‘Maths Kits’, science equipment, desks, chairs, even exercise books, north and south of the River Niger, in 2012.

Do you know that the National Policy on Education Document in 1977 cost just 50kobo to buy? It states that functional libraries are a basic necessity for education. Today where are the libraries – 35 years and multiple billions later, North and South while we have a 20% pass rates which is 80% failure even in the South. The much envied South struggled to survive the ravages of governments and is not immune from reactions. The expected post-Awolowo spectacular successes in education have been reduced by lack of scholarship, school infrastructure and bursaries to a generation of undereducated government school products in pigsties called schools. Even the Federal Government schools are plagued.

The real miracle in Nigeria is how many wonderful children have overcome the ‘human rights abuses’ in educational limitations to excel. In the South, the vast majority of parents spend up to 70%-90% of their income on the educational support of their children, girl and boy. Witness thousands of private schools all around the South and some parts of the North. These privately educated children, trained by the dedication and self-deprivation of their parents are brought up independent of government educational policies, politics and pettiness. These are the children who will be brilliant bright

Nigerians’ feted by government while the majority of schools are still wallowing in post free education Awolowo squalor and should be closed down as ‘Not fit for purpose!’

Somewhere along the line, the meaning of education was lost by government and we started quibbling over quantity and quality. We think of education in terms of desks and chairs and exercise books and have forgotten to include coloured chalk, novels, text and non-text books, science equipment, reference books and of course a library, clean usable toilets and running water. The southern governors should not think that the ‘Boko Alarm’ will only happen in the North.

What happened was that the northern citizens were ignored by northern rulers. That happened also in the South. Remember Ibori? But why do things seem better in the South. The South students are deprived of the Awolowo days. Indeed the Education Tax Fund and Petroleum Tax Fund looked north not south. The answer is just that the southern parents are filling the yawning gap left by government corruption. The successes that are claimed to be in the south are largely educational and successful personal private sacrifice and business initiatives and not from government patronage. The electricity powerless south is also angry because it knows where it should be! Love, justice, massive political reform, openness and an abrupt stop to corruption, like for checkpoints, will save Nigeria!

‘We think of education in terms of desks and chairs and exercise books and have forgotten to include coloured chalk, novels, text and nontext books, science equipment, reference books and of course a library, clean usable toilets and running water’

Bloody Nose for South Africans

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FRICA is a continent of many possibilities. This past week recorded a diplomatic furore between two giant brothers – Nigeria and South Africa. This was sequel to the ignominious treatment meted out to Nigerians when they were summarily deported from South Africa, the country of the Big Brother. Remember the CocaCola/MTN- powered Big Brother reality show that portrays young Africans in an artificial environment where they are laws unto themselves. Nothing is impossible in Big Brother’s House. In short, the place is a rendezvous meant to entertain, discover “talents”, as they couch it, as well as exhibit some degree of indecency and lawlessness never before permitted under any African law and custom.

Anyway when the news broke out that some Nigerians were ‘deported’ from South Africa because of such a mundane thing as the possession of fake yellow fever cards, I initially dismissed it as a huge joke even though ‘April fool’s’ day was still far off. But by Monday, when my good friend, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, a third-term member of the federal House of Representatives and chairperson of the Diaspora Committee, appeared on a television programme and condemned the shabby treatment, I knew the problem was real and that it was going to spark off a wave of diplomatic staccato between Abuja and Pretoria.

The National Assembly quickly rose to the occasion by inviting Prof.

Olugbenga Ashiru, Nigeria’s Foreign Minister. A visibly angry

Ashiru, who barely concealed his anger through his careful choice of words, spoke in no uncertain terms about Nigeria’s preparedness to match South Africa’s erratic behaviour “measure for measure”. Since his appointment as foreign minister, Ashiru has demonstrated an uncanny zeal and passion for his job.

Not only this, he has brought prestige, honour and finesse to the office through his carriage, confidence, comportment and the articulate manner in which he advocates whatever he believes in.

The minister who had once been an ambassador to South Africa was quick to lay the blame on unscrupulous customs and police officers in that country. He traced the history of such diplomatic blunders to when he was in the country as well as under Muhammed Buba Marwa, a retired general. He also gave as example, the poor treatment given to our own Nobel Laureate, Prof.

Wole Soyinka, during one of his official visits to the country. If I am correct, the poor treatment infuriated the Nobel Laureate so much that he cancelled a scheduled engagement in that country and flew back to his base.

In what is replica of the Mosaic Law that prescribes a tooth for a tooth, the Nigerian government retaliated by sending back a total of about 128 South Africans who were refused entry into the country in a spate of six days While the row lasted, several diplomatic moves were embarked upon by sister African countries to prevent a further deterioration of

‘ If any lesson must be learnt from the recent face-off between Abuja and Pretoria, it is that Nigeria must review, as a matter of urgency, the now archaic philosophy of Africa as the centre piece of its foreign policy’

relations between the two countries.

The efforts paid off when the South African government beat a hasty retreat from its earlier recalcitrant stand by tendering an apology to Nigeria over the unfortunate incident.

As things are gradually being normalised, we should not lose sight of the fact that we, as a people, need to rub it in, in the international arena that, as from now on, Nigerians should no longer be subjected to any humiliation for no justifiable reason. The days of singling out Nigerians for embarrassment in foreign airports should come to an end.

Today, stories of Nigerians being singled out for victimization in many African countries, South Africa inclusive, are very familiar tales.

A country like South Africa is said to have built a prison or dedicated a prison for Nigerians alone. If this is true, it means that those unfortunate Nigerians do not only lose their freedom, they are also ostracized from the society as well. If a prison is built to house a particular group of people in a former apartheidruled country, what it simply means is that apartheid has not been totally defeated. Or should I say there is neo- apartheid, and this time, it is between the blacks themselves?

This is not to say that Nigerians are saints who must be treated with reference at all times. No. There is no doubt that some Nigerians have deliberately brought shame and dishonour to their fatherland in foreign lands through their actions, but like the lawyers are wont to say, “only the guilty must be punished”.

Two weeks ago, I went to apply for a South African visa to enable me and my colleagues travel to the country tomorrow for a meeting of Entrepreneurs Organization, EO, in Cape Town, South Africa. Part of the requirements was the yellow fever card which I produced. The lady there took it and made photocop-

ies. It is in the South African Embassy alone, I think, where they request for photocopies of whatever you are tendering. And you must do three copies of each document.

It is a shame that yellow fever card came to the front- burner in the Pretoria and Abuja face-off when, in the actual sense, there seems to be no more trace of the disease, particularly in Nigeria. It was learnt that Nigeria had been declared a yellow fever-free country many years ago.

If this is so, then it is unfortunate that some airport staff could come together to launch a “yellow fever card-induced war” against innocent Nigerians. I believe it is the South African officials that must purge themselves of their yellow fever-infested heads.

This yellow fever card gambit is akin to the pot calling the kettle black. Whereas it is on record that South Africa and some of the countries along its borders harbour a greater share of AIDS patients in Africa, yet no South African has ever been barred from entering Nigeria on the ground that he or she is an AIDS’ sufferer. Perhaps, that was why Dabiri-Erewa had insinuated during her TV appearance last week that Nigeria could possibly ask South Africans to produce AIDS-free certificates before being allowed entry into Nigeria.

South Africa owes its final liberation from the shackles of apartheid to the unwavering support and tacit actions of Nigeria during the dark days. I remember in those days when South African and Zimbabwean students were in campuses in Nigeria on scholarship from the Nigerian government. They were also paid allowances with which they drink to stupor and engage in smoking all kinds of stuffs without anybody harassing them. Some of them even wrestle pretty girls from Nigerians because of their exposure to Western lifestyle and ‘too much

Dele Agekameh money’. They were simply rugged.

If any lesson must be learnt from the recent face-off between Abuja and Pretoria, it is that Nigeria must review, as a matter of urgency, the now archaic philosophy of Africa as the centre piece of its foreign policy. Time has changed. Even the African countries that we stick out our neck to protect when the chips were down are today making nonsense of our citizens. Remember Liberia, Sierra-Leone and Ivory Coast.

If Nigeria had developed along the path of sanity, Nigerians could have had no reason to become slaves or second-class citizens in lesser countries of the world. But thank to our dubious, reckless and thieving government officials, Nigerians are today hewers of wood and fetchers of water in every hamlets all over the world. I am sure if there was no apartheid, South Africa could have been worse than Nigeria given the average black man’s propensity and proclivity for indiscipline and mismanagement. That is why I have always told people that the glamour in South Africa today is the positive side of the obnoxious apartheid.

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THE NATION WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14, 2012

22

EDITORIAL/OPINION FROM THE CELL PHONE ‘The problem of corruption has eaten deep into the fabric of the society. The government is dilatory in solving the leviathan called corruption, the relevant institution charged with the responsibility of fighting corruption has failed.

Politicians have failed us. From Laide Owadusi Esq’

• Ayo Salami

For Segun Gbadegesin Justice, forthrightness is the hall mark of Justice Ayo Salami, he needs not be afraid, the truth shall prevail, let Jonathan and others continue to shy away from the truth .Justice Salami will be vindicated. From Ojo A. A. Emure Ekiti But why do you think that the PDP government was out to do the right thing?

Please expect the worst from them. Ibori is their symbol. Anonymous NDDC has not paid for three months in its NDDC Technical aid corp scheme.

Anonymous The problem of corruption has eaten deep into the fabric of the society. The government is dilatory in solving the leviathan called corruption, the relevant institution charged with the responsibility of fighting corruption has failed.

Politicians have failed us. From Laide Owadusi Esq I read your article on dawn but please let every Yoruba leader and every soil be captured in the dawn project from Kwara to Kogi, Edo to Delta to Cotonu and beyond. Anonymous Your article “At the break of dawn” makes interesting reading. While I agree that there is need for regional integration amongst the Southwest states, I do not agree that it should be pursued on partisan basis. And this is where I think Afenifere Renewal Group (ARG) should drive and implement the programme. I also want to disagree with those who believe that except you are in ACN, you are not a progressive. I know a lot of Yoruba’s spread accross all other parties that are more progressive than some of those in ACN. I would rather prefer that progressives come together irrespective of their political leaning to chart a common cause for the race, than rallying round ACN for whatever reason. From Hon. Dapo Adeyemi, Ita-Eko, Abeokuta.

With the huge mineral resources in Nigeria. Nigerians were being deported from South Africa a couple of days ago.

What a sad commentary. Anonymous The Yorubas have finally established themselves as masters of “double speak” and their words are now taken with a pinch of salt. That is why the status of Ilorin nay Kwara in general cannot be vet by any of them. Anonymous For Olatunji Dare He was an erudite scholar, a great leader and well loved by his people. He fought a good cause. May the Lord grant him eternal repose. Anonymous When a man finds no peace within himself, it is useless to seek it elsewhere.

From Dejo Raimi Re: “Matters miscellaneous”. Is it 1,500 million or 1.5 million out of 3 million that were unSUREly feted? Good morning!

From Kayode A., Abeokuta.

I read your comment in today’s paper and I must commend you for the write-up.

The press is also part of the decay in this nation, if they can stand up for the truth but not suppress it because of that which will not last. May God produce more of Tunde Bakare’s to salvage this nation. From Sola Akingbade Your pieces are always investigative and reliable in veracity. Jonathan never dispensed with public opinion when he went to the facebook begging for our votes.

Now, our opinions have turned moribund.

Well, we can only wish him well, and hope that the opinions he listens to nowadays is ok. From Anselm.

If NOUN is awarding dud certificates that have no value, why has the NUC not shut down over 50 study centres spread across the country? NOUN runs programmes up to PhD and yearly admits students. Why? From John B., P. H. River Corruption can never be reduced in Nigeria not to talk of eradicating it. PDP has infiltrated the judiciary. Justice Awokuleyin discharged Ibori of 170-count charge only to plead guilty of the same aharges in London. Daniel was also discharged of 43 count corruption charges

by Justice Mabekoje last week. Where do we go from here? From Alh. Adeboye Lawal, Felele Ibadan Re: ‘Matters miscellaneous”. James Ibori is a disgrace to nigerian nation. The UK has set a good example Nigerian security operatives and judiciary should follow, in terms of transparency. Whether or not N65 - N141 - N97 is making SURE becoming unrealisable is none of our business! N65 - N141 at a goal would have recorded massive death ever without a war.

Whether neighbour to neighbour or government or the dailies that accepted the removal of subsidy campaign bothers us not, rather it was a profit-loss gamble.

Whoever lost or gained therefrom: goodluck to them. From Lanre Oseni, Lagos.

Re: “Who is afraid of regional integration?” Sir, without doubt, the west has more to gain in regional integration than any other region, but you have to question the motive behind a regional flag and anthem, it bears no economic significance, it is just an arrogant political call! From Pherson Ellison, Port Harcourt Mr Olatunji Dare, so, the president said public opinion is not always right? He is right! Public opinion, through our votes, put him there. We did not put the right person there! Our opinion was not right!

Pity Nigeria! From Jabar Yomi Ajayi Sir, baba‘s diploma was in Theology and not Divinity, that is, if you are too obtuse to as you put it succintly “appreciate the vast gulf separating the one from the other.” Besides, even if baba is given a fake certificate what does it matter? Is he looking for employment with it? I cannot even waste my sympathy on the other group of students. Those from regular universities are still in the queue looking for jobs that do not exist! From Olalewa Apara.

For Gbenga Omotoso Salami symbolises justice. If they refuse to instal him back as PCA, God will surely do. Justice must prevail. Anonymous The judiciary is being controlled by PDP. We shall see how both will destroy each other very soon. Anonymous Mathematics is the most advanced stage of philosophy. Those fascinated with figures should study Mathematics for Maths sake as Art not Science because that

is what it is. Mathematics, however, is the language of science. Like Medicine we study Mathematics in UI as science but in practice both Maths and Medicine are the purest of the Arts hence, the most advanced stage of philosophy. Whereas hippocratis of course invented Medicine, Pythagoras of Samos invented Mathematics. Pythagoras was the first person to call himself philosopher; we can therefore say Pythagoras invented Philosophy. Pythagoras was the first person to use the word cosmos to define the physical world hence he is the prime protagoras of cosmology. Pythagoras did not invent the physical world but he reduced the cosmos to shapes and number through the laws of numbers and astronomy. Pythagoras Philosopher/ Mathematician/Prophet is the father of Astrology. As human spirits we are all Mathematicians because the spirits evaluate with the speed of light. From Dr Sundykesh I belief in democracy, provided its principles are followed. These PDP governments have murdered sleep hence they will not see peace. Amen! Anonymous Some people’s consciences are dead, if not I wonder why the NJC members who ought to have resigned their membership and burry their heads in shame are still talking. The traitor should keep quiet and allow the righteous man to assume his rightful constitutional position unhindered. From T. Tunde Re: “The power of figures”. You have cleverly and brilliantly displayed with vivid examples, the power of figures. More people will appreciate power of figures when most students and adult imbibe sciences and social sciences as well as when this nation develops technologically. However, just as PDP focuses 60 years rulership of Nigeria, same or more than 60 years by ACN or its metamorphoses, in Lagos state since the winning streak had always been 100 per cent at both local and state elections. From Lanre Oseni, Lagos. . Cremation Bill: Kudos to the initiator of the cremation bill at the Lagos State House of Assembly. The bill should be made flexible as to allow some rogue polititians from other states to be brought to Lagos for cremation when they pass away.

Cremation will provide an opportunity for rehearsals before their final journey into hell proper! Anonymous The Salami matter: it is a pity that the Devilish PDP-led administration of Goodluck Jonathan has continued to insult the psyche of Nigerians in trying to hoodwink us into believing that Justice Salami was removed to pave way for corruption charges levelled against him.

But in the actual fact, I believe Jonathan and his anti-human party (PDP) felt challenged by Salami’s continued stay at the Appeal Court, so they removed him to continue their stalk-in-trade (election rigging). Anonymous Re: “The Salami matter”. The Justice Salami’s episode is more apolitical than legal. When a public officer is adjuged tainted on opinion in critical stock-taking decision analysis at variance with either popular ideology or highly placed interest, he becomes a target of an overriding conflicting groups. Wherefore, he had shown overt or subtle reaction to provoke sympathetic advantage, a likelihood of vindictive posture might

• Jonathan

occur in a manner reminiscient of the Salami’s matter. From Pius Owowo I am very disappointed that president Jonathan would be buying the PDP script against the most honest Justice Salami.

From Dr. Achor I have been buying fuel at N140 per litre since January. This morning one filling station was heartless enough to pump adulterated petrol into my tank at N140 per litre. God will surely punish Mrs. Allison Madueke for making me go through this hardship. Anonymous If Justice Salami is not found wanting you should know that truth is dead in Nigeria. Well I hail Salami. Kindly let those in the judiciary who are doing their biding learn from Salami to keep this country on good track. From C. J. Otis, Delta state Re: “The Salami matter”. Well said! But what are the so-called prominent Lawyers doing or saying? Nothing! All are pursuing lucre. God help us. From Adebiyi, Abeokuta The continued suspension of Justice Isa Salami after the 29 man panel set up by the Chief Justice of Nigeria found him innocent of all accusations is pure injustice, unfair, callous and wicked. This wicked act believed to be politically motivated will continue to batter the image of the judiciary. His detractors who are head bent to soil his hard earned reputations of many years will not escape the wrought of God. From Blessing Abakun, Ibadan.

Re: “The Salami matter”. The government of Olusegun Obasanjo administration lost a case at the Supreme Court. Instead of obeying the court’s ruling, his Attorney General decided to insult the court by asking for intepretation before compling. Nigeria knows the antics of PDP and the rule of law. It continues to be a government dominated by gangsters. It is a shame. Anonymous Re: “The Salami matter”. Are you sure there is no ‘unholy connivance’ going on?

Why can’t the man return to his job whilst reconciliation is pursued? I have a hunch that all the present foot dragging, by the new Committee giving yet another date in April, ( for a case that is so straightforward ), is to stall Justice Salami’s return until he is due for Statutory Retirement. Please find out his retirement date! Anonymous This Salami issue is a script of PDP and a dummy sent to Jonathan to save his mandate and he acted on the script but now dilly-dally to correct himself. The constitution needs to be amended to set jail term for ballot thieves may be we will have peace. Anonymous On “The Salami matter”: I agree with you that we should ignore the unrestrained phone calls between Salami and Ijaya, Lai, Fayemi and save Judiciary by recalling him. Caesar’s Wife Code! Anonymous The power of figures is the best so far.

Please keep it up and God bless you. From Engr. Ogedengbe.

AHEAD OF NIGERIA/ZIMBABWE GAME

Pg. 24

Flamengoes’ victory motivates Falconets

Nation

MINISTER

resolves NFF crisis Pg. 41

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Wednesday, March 14, 2012

AHEAD OF U-17 AFRICA QUALIFIERS

NIGERIA spies on

Pg. 24

NIGER

•Manu Garba

MACCABI HAIFA 1-4 HAPOEL TEL AVIV

Igiebor

scores brace •Bags Man-of-the-Match award •Igiebor

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NATIONSPORT WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14, 2012

NATION SPORT

NATION SPORT

NFF eyes CAF seat AHEAD OF U-17 AFRICA QUALIFIERS

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FFICIALS of the troubled Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) is expected to converge in Abuja in an emergency meeting to deliberate on the vacant seat of the CAF executive committee.

SuperSport.com has been informed that the emergency meeting of the NFF executive committee was summoned by the president of the body, Aminu Maigari at the weekend.

Maigari, it was learned, has indicated interest in the vacant executive committee seat at CAF. The CAF executive committee is vacant following the three-year suspension of FIFA on Dr Amos Adamu after his alleged involvement in the cash-for-vote scandal.

Adamu's appeal at CAS was thrown out and FIFA's three-year suspension upheld with part of the statement saying the punishment from the world soccer governing body was "relatively mild given the seriousness of the offence."

However, SuperSport.com learned that former Secretary-

General of Nigeria's football governing body, Sani Toro, is interested in vying for the vacant seat at CAF. Also, the NFF will discuss the impending visit of the nation's sports minister, Bolaji Abdullahi,who doubles as head of the Nigerian National Sports Commission.

Abdullahi is expected to meet with FIFA president, Sepp Blatter this month in Zurich, Switzerland to discuss how to bring an end to the crisis rocking his nation's football at administrative level.

The NFF executive committee will also decide on the recommendations made by the technical committee on the roles of the technical director, Super Falcons' head coach and coach of the Under-20 men's team, the Flying Eagles.

The NFF technical committee has already recommended Belgian Tom Saintfiet for the director's job, while Kadiri Ikhana and Fatai Amoo are in line for the head coach jobs of the Super Falcons and Flying Eagles respectively.

Sports veterans mourn General Adefope (Rtd)

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HE Association of Sports Veterans, Nigeria has expressed its sadness over the passage of Major General Henry Edmond Olufemi Adefope, the country’s longest serving representative at the International Olympic Committee (IOC). The late Adefope passed on last Sunday at the age of 84.

Chief Jonathan Ogufere, former President of the West African Football Union (WAFU) who is the head of the Sports Veterans said yesterday with Adefope’s death, ‘’a big iroko tree has fallen.’’

In a press statement in Lagos, Chief Ogufere paid glowing tributes to the late Major General Adefope, former Commander of the Armed Forces Medical Services whose reign as the President of the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC) between 1967 and 1976 brought good tidings to Nigerian sports. ‘’The former Minister of Labour, and former minister of foreign

affairs was a man of high integrity, a rare gem whose knowledge of the Nigerian sports terrain was deep. He was surely our unsung hero and a committed sports administrator. He will greatly be missed by the global Olympic family,’’ said the statement.

The President of the Sports Veterans went on to trace the history of the man who took the reins of the NOC from Sir Adetokunbo Ademola when he was chairman of Army Sports Control Board.

The former WAFU boss said Adefope’s sojourn in the country’s sports was worthy of emulation and called on the present day sports administrators to immortalize Adefope by imbibing the good ideals of Nigeria’s former representative to the International O l y m p i c Committee.

He urged the decease d family to take solace in the fact that Gen Adefope lived a fulfilled life.

NIGERIA

NIGER P

ASSIONATE Nigerian Football stakeholders with close ties in Niger Republic have volunteered to be offer useful information to the Nigeria U-17 national team prior to their qualifying match against Niger in September.

NationSport gathered that the fans who are regular visitors to the team's FIFA Goal Project camp right inside the Abuja National Stadium gave their word to the Manu Garba led coaching crew. "These are t h e people that have been coming to watch our training on a daily basis. Some of them belong to the All Stars Team in the

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From Ejiro Femi-Babafemi, Abuja Federal Capital City (FCT) and they are men of means," said one of the officials.

"You know that Nigeria was not drawn bye

by CAF for this year's qualifiers due to our declining record in the last two years that we do not want repeating itself this year. "So this is a good step for the team to always have vital

information on what is happening in our opponents camp all the time. Do not forget that it was the same Niger that eliminated our home based eagles from the CHAN qualifiers. So you can see that it is a team not to be under-rated," added the official.

A win for Nigeria will brighten its chances of qualifying for the Africa championship.

The 2013 African U-17 Championship is scheduled to hold in Morocco and will serve as

E

•Igiebor

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•Manu Garba

qualifiers for the 2013 FIFA U-17 World Cup billed for the United Arab Emirates. Nigeria failed to qualify for the 2011 championship in Mexico two years ago and the previous edition.

For the 2009 edition they were privileged to compete as host.

More than 200 players have attended the screening process which comes to an end this week.

Igiebor scores brace From Tunde Liadi, Owerri

X-NIGERIA U-23 star and Hapoel Tel Aviv of Israel’s attacking midfielder, Nosashare Emmanuel Igiebor has stated that his brace and the Man-of-the-Match Award he bagged in his club’s 4-1 road victory over Maccabi Haifa Monday night was a perfect reply to keep his critics quiet.

Igiebor got Hapoel’s second and third goal in the 55th and 85th minute to put his club back at the driver’s seat after a certain Vered evened the scoreline for Maccabi in the 48th minute. Oremus had earlier netted the first goal for Hapoel in the 26th minute and after Igiebor’s double, Damari further stretched Hapoel’s lead in the 90th minute.

Speaking with NationSport shortly after the match, the former FC Abuja and Warri W o l v e s p l a y e r highlight ed that he had been in deep thinking since he read the libelous report on allnigeriasoccer.c om first on Friday night and was looking at better way to silent the authors once and for all. He stressed he however thought of putting up an impressive performance for his club ahead of the important tie away at Maccabi Haifa which once paraded Yakubu Aiyegbeni.

“I played and scored two goals and was named the Man-of –theMatch with a giant Plasma Flat screen Television as a gift after the match. What a better way to silent my critics. I always say it that I will rather like my game to do the talking for me. I hope my performance against Maccabi and those that will follow will make the reporter(s) turn a new leaf and always cross check their facts before going to press. I have moved on and I don’t think I will be interested in pressing any court case. I have forgiven the authors of the report on allnigeriasocer.com published about me on Friday but if the trend continues I may be forced to exercise my rights.”

From Florence Nkem Israel, Port Harcourt between the Nigeria Premier League and the Nigeria Football Federation. The NPL is a surbodinate of the NFF and the two must work hand in hand to see how our football can progress because, its when we marry the Programmes of the NFF, NPL, CAF and FIFA that we will not have such problems.

"It is mandatory that when you travel, as soon as you are back, you will play your outstanding match before the next game so that we don't pile up and get another name for ourselves - been the longest league in Africa. And by the grace

HE crisis plaguing the Nigerian Football Federation, NFF has finally been resolved at a peace and reconciliation meeting convened by the Supervising Minister of Sports, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi.

At the meeting, all the aggrieved parties agreed to settle their differences, withdraw outstanding cases in court, terminate all legal processes and work for the growth and progress of the Nigerian football. The terms of the resolution are: “Ray Nnaji: 1. NFF to withdraw his suspension and banning and publicize such 2. NFF to pay reasonable compensation to him 3. NFF to pay his outstanding referee allowance, subject to verification Dr Sam Jaja: 1.

Be appointed as Honorary Member of the NFF 2. His disqualification is reversed

by the NFF 3. A letter of unreserved apology tendered by the NFF 4. Dr Sam Jaja shall not enforce the judgment in the suit number FHC/ABJ/170/10 delivered on the 20th of January 2012.

Nigerian Football Federation: The NFF shall allow the notice of appeal in respect of judgment in Suit number FHC/ABJ/CS/170/10 delivered on the 20th of January 2012 to abate.

All parties also agreed to ensure that all on-going process regarding proper documentation of both the league and the board are completed.”

Alh. Aminu Maigari (President) and Musa Ahmadu (Secretary) both signed the agreement on behalf of the NFF, while Dr Sam Jaja and Barr Ray N n a j i , t w o stakeholders who had

Amobi targets AFL Africa's number two game

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Y PASSION has always been to always work with children, and the AFL has the capacity to positively develop the minds of players to be positive, team spirited and focused in the society".

Those were words of Nigerian born-American star and the Chairman of the Amobi Okoye Foundation, Mr Amobi Okoye while addressing the Press on the American Football Project which kicked of on Sunday in Port Harcourt.

Okoye who features Chicago Bears in AFL said the foundation was initiated to pass across virtues and values American Football has imparted into his life.

He emphasised that Nigeria is the second largest nationality being recruited and playing AFL in the United States.

Okoye said introducing the sports in Rivers state would give a wider opportunity for youths to be recruited and at the long run begin competition with other nations.

He said one of the foundations focus is to make American

of God, with the understanding of everybody it will work because club officials too make it difficult for the board atimes" Baribote also noted that every registered player of the Nigeria Premier League must be active in his club.

"We don't want any player to be redundant. Each club registered thirty-five players and if you travel with twenty, others should be given opportunity to prove themselves. So, from the beginning we made them understand that the board is not ready to condone such and with that, there will be no such issue as piling up matches for now", he said.

Minister resolves NFF Crisis

MACCABI HAIFA 1-4 HAPOEL TEL AVIV

•Bags Man-of-the-Match award

Flamengoes victory motivates’ Falconets Abeokuta, that notwithstanding it has gingered my players to win our own game," he said.

"You can see that these East African countries are coming strongly into the game with their records in this year's qualifiers. And we are very much aware that the Zimbabwean team this year is different from the one that we faced two years ago," Okon said.

Two years ago, Nigeria whitewashed their East African opponent 10- 0 on goals aggregate with the first leg ending 4-0 and the return leg 6-0.

The winner of this fixture would advance into the third and final round with three Africa teams. The four countries will battle for the two slots awarded to Africa.

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HE Nigeria Premier League has reiterated their stand in ensuring that clubs involved in Continental competitions this season do not pile up local league matches while they compete away from home.

Speaking with NationSport, the Chairman of the NPL, Victor Baribote Rumson said that the crisis that used to ensue in fixtures in the past was due to the misunderstanding between the NPL and the NFF and having sorted that out, all the clubs must conform to avoid a repetition of what happened last season.

"When I got into the office, I made it very clear - in the past there used to be this misunderstanding

spies on

AHEAD OF NIGERIA/ZIMBABWE GAME

HE U-20 Women National Team known as Falconets has vowed not to let Nigerians down when they confront Zimbabwe in the second round, first leg of the 2012 FIFA U-20 Women World Cup qualifiers on Saturday March 31 at the MKO Abiola Stadium.

Chief Coach, Edwin Okon said on Tuesday afternoon that his girls have been motivated by the 2-1 victory of the U-17 women national team nicknamed Flamengoes against Zambia last Saturday in Lusaka. The U-17 girls returned to Abuja on Monday evening in preparation for the return leg.

"Although it was the first leg with the second leg billed for Nigeria on March 24 also in

NPL reiterates zero tolerance for match piling

From Florence Nkem Israel, Port Harcourt Football the second most popular game in the continent in the next 25 years.

The Programme which has been on for five years running is arriving Rivers state for the first time, barely a year after the Lagos campaign seemed to have gained roots.

Ameobi's Marketting and Media officer, Spiff Sagbama had earlier noted the schools to be the main target.

"It has to go through the schools because in the United States if you must excel in sports you must be in school,the secondary schools especially.

Part of the programme is as they are graduating from secondary schools, the best of them will be going to the US. It will take a little while because the schools have to inculcate and understand the game."

A three-day training clinic for the coaches which kicked off in Port Harcourt at the Chief Adoke Amiesimaka on Sunday got rounded off on Tuesday at the same venue.

•NFF Board Members, Sports Minister, Ekeji, Jaja Nnaji

taken the Federation to court, signed for themselves.

Also in attendance at the meeting were the Director General of National Sports Commission, Patrick Ekeji; the 1st Vice President of the NFF, Chief Mike Umeh; the 2nd Vice President of the NFF and Chairman of the NPL, C h i e f Rumson Baribote, and other statesmen.

•Bolaji Abdullahi

STEWARDSHIP Council chief presents scorecard Edo

CAPACITY

SECURITY

NGO trains 30,000 farmers

Police, vigilance group partner

Adamawa 37

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WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14, 2012

Ondo

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Email: news_extra@yahoo.com

Senator provides free eye test for constituents T

•Two patients being attended to by optometrists

HERE was a scramble for a free eye screening in Oworonshoki, Lagos State.

The test was bankrolled by Senator Gbenga Ashafa, in collaboration with the Nucleus Group, a nongovernmental organisation (NGO).

The residents trooped out early to be screened, waiting quietly under tents for the medical team and officials of Kosofe Local Government Area to arrive at the Model Primary Healthcare Centre for the test.

But no sooner had the personnel arrived at the venue of the event when the survival-of-the-fittest scramble began. Both the young and the old were literally locked in a battle to register first for the

By Wale Ajetunmobi

exercise before the other.

But the council officials ensured orderliness in the process as a result of the advice from a community leader who gave the aged the advantage to seat at the front row, thereby giving them the privilege to register for the exercise first.

The programme was meant to commemorate the forthcoming 60th birthday of the National Leader of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The free eye screening exercise

took place penultimate weekend in all the local government areas in Lagos East Senatorial District and residents turned out en masse to participate in the programme.

Speaking at the Akoka Primary Health Centre, Somolu, where the free eye test was conducted for the residents of Somolu Local Government Area, the coordinator of the programme and secretary to the council, Hon. Owolabi Salu, said the free eye test programme resulted from a barrage of complaints received by the constituency office of Senator Ashafa from local government chapters of ACN. He said Sena•Continued on Page 39

S

ECURITY challenges are ever present in Plateau State but Governor Jonah David Jang has said his administration will neither be cowed nor lose sight of its goals. At the Government House in Rayfield, he gave out 111 taxis and commercial buses to youths to help them earn a living and reduce the state’s poverty profile.

At the event, the governor provided some grim statistics. The state’s poverty index stands at 70 per cent, he said, and could climb to as high as 150% in just two years if no comprehensive action is taken. But he said his administration is already tackling the situation. The 115 commercial vehicles are part of the redemptive action.

But it is not the only one. The state government has also taken delivery of 500 units of tricycles to be given out to more youths.

The Jang administration has faced huge challenges since its inception. First was sectarian violence, which pitched erstwhile harmonious constituents of the state against one another. People lost their lives; buildings and other properties were destroyed. Then, Boko Haram, the fundamentalist sect, crept in, adding to the misery.

All of that has slowed down the pace of development in the state, but the Jang administration which won a second term, is determined to leave a lasting legacy of development.

The governor said his peace restoration programme is on course, as is the poverty alleviation project across the 17 local government areas of the state.

After his inauguration for his second term in office, the governor and his team came up with a Threepillar Policy which encompasses the original 10-Point Agenda all aimed at achieving poverty alleviation for people of the state.

While distributing the 115 vehicles to beneficiaries, Jang said: “The action is part of the administration’s empowerment scheme to reduce poverty and create wealth for the people of the state. That’s

•Governor Jang presenting one of the buses to a beneficiary

Plateau tackles poverty 115 youths get commercial vehicles From Yusufu Aminu Idegu, Jos

why we tagged the scheme: ‘Tackling Poverty Together Project’ through which we can reduce poverty in the

state and create good transport system that will help the people of the state.”

He continued: “Having a good transport network can alleviate poverty since it involves application of

labour–based technology which necessarily creates employment, transfer of skills and empowering communities through social uplift and poverty reduction.

The governor said the poverty re-

duction programme is more than just providing jobs, explaining that it is also about deepening civil society participation in the rejuvenation of the state.

“We are developing mechanisms for entrenching civil society consultants through the Plateau Oneness Dialogue and in this ‘Tackling Poverty Together Project’ we envisage greater participation by the private sector in traffic and transportation planning by maintaining •Continued on Page 26

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14, 2012

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Governor accused of withholding White Paper on kingship tussle

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HE Ondo State Governor Olusegun Mimiko has been accused of withholding the White Paper on the Justice Abusoye panel of inquiry set up to probe the kingship tussle which has threatened the peace and unity of Arigidi, Akoko.

This accusation was made by the Arigidi Patriots, Lagos. They argued that it is only when the findings are made public that a final and lasting solution to the crisis would be resolved.

They urged Governor Mimiko to tell law enforcement officers to ensure that the decisions of the court are obeyed by all the parties involved in the crisis.

According to them, on July 26 2011, an Akure High Court set aside the earlier appointment of an Oba and ordered another selection.

This ruling, they alleged, has again been disobeyed by the incumbent who has continued to parade himself in that capacity while the law enforcement agents have done noth-

A source at the governor’s office advised the indigenes to be patient as he is working out something to make sure that all parties would be satisfied with any agreement reached in resolving the crisis

By Jude Isiguzo

ing to stop him.

In a protest letter to the Governor

by Arigidi Patriots, Lagos, signed by Chief Dotun Awolumate and Ogunbiyi Olubiyi, they alleged that the incumbent has been attending functions in Lagos where he still paraded himself as the Zaki of Arigidi.

They alleged that the incumbent attended a function in Badagry, Lagos in October, three months after the court’s ruling and was spotted dressed in the full regalia of the Oba and was also addressed as such.

The Patriots called on the governor to order law enforcement agents to stop the incumbent from parading himself as Oba henceforth.

They also urged the governor to permanently station a contingent of anti- riot policemen in Arigidi as this will serve as a buffer against reprisal, self help and pre-emptive strikes by offended citizens following constant attacks by thugs loyal to the incumbent.

They also urged the governor to set up, in the interim, a Regency Council to fill the political vacuum as well as act as a Security Council in the town. This, they argued, would complement government’s and law enforcement agencies’ efforts in maintaining peace and order in the town.

A source at the governor’s office advised the indigenes to be patient as he is working out something to make sure that all parties would be satisfied with any agreement reached in resolving the crisis.

•100 new taxis commissioned

•Continued from Page 25

Plateau tackles poverty

the integration of land use, building supporting systems for pro-poor transport and non-transport policies and strategies.”

Beneficiaries paid a deposit of 10 per cent of the cost of the vehicle and are expected to pay the balance on a weekly basis while the entire cost will be paid in two years. On completion of payment, the beneficiaries become automatic owners of the vehicles, Jang said.

“Today we have deliberately re-

duced the poverty level in the state by this singular action of distributing vehicles to 115 youths,” he continued.

“Very soon we will further reduce the poverty level when we shall be giving out 500 tricycles currently being assembled”.

“We are tackling poverty not only through transport but in other critical areas such as agriculture, addressing health and educational inequalities, improved infrastructure, land administration, fiscal transparency, among

others.”

The Commissioner of Works and Transport Hon. Chris Hassan said the project is aimed at engaging youths in the state positively in order to add value to their lives.

Hassan noted that any beneficiary who did not observe the guidelines governing the operation of the minicabs will be arrested by law enforcement agencies. He said the vehicles are meant to operate only within JosBukuru metropolis.

•Mr. Oni

•Prof. Gambo Labara Abdullahi (Director-General, National Board for Technology Incubation)

they don’t have. So, it has been a herculean task for us,” he said.

On innovations and products the centre has succeeded in creating in the last two years, Oni said they include smoked dried fish, bottled palm wine, air freshener, germicides, instant pounded yam, dried pap, and dried fufu.

According to him, some of the products have been registered by the National Agency for Food, Drugs Administration and Control (NAFDAC) while smoked dried fish, instant pounded yam and instant pap are already in the international markets in countries like United Kingdom and United States of America.

‘How Nigeria can grow industrially’

A

MANAGEMENT expert and technologist, Mr. John Oni, has advised the Federal Government to pay more attention to the various technology incubation centres across the country if it hopes to achieve its objective of making Nigeria an “industrialised” and “manufacturing country” in the nearest future.

Mr Oni, who is the manager Technology Incubation Centre, Abeokuta, Ogun State, said technology incubation programme remains the nursery bed for growing the right technology and entrepreneurs that would transform the country into an industrialised one like most developed countries of the world.

The technologist, who has had a stint at the Federal Institute of Industrial Research Oshodi, (FIIRO) Lagos said these while briefing journalists on the activities of the Abeokuta Technology Incubation Centre. There are 25 such centres established in Nigeria by the Federal Government.

The are under the supervision of National Board for Technology Incubation headed by Professor Gambo Labara Abdullahi (OON) as Director-General.

According to Oni, if technology

From Ernest Nwokolo, Abeokuta

incubation programmes are taken seriously, not only will they help in reducing the level of poverty in the country, it will also serve as veritable tools for creating jobs required to absorb the burgeoning army of graduates from the country’s tertiary institutions.

He disclosed that what the centres needed now to help the Federal Government achieve her objective of making Nigeria a manufacturing and an industrialised country with the attendant benefits, are more funds and infrastructure to support and nurture budding entrepreneurs.

“But I think the Federal Ministry of Science and Technology and the Ministry of Finance are aware of what the national board for technology incubation is doing; creating jobs, and eradicating poverty.

At times we have to go to our head office to source for funds to help entrepreneurs. If Nigeria wants to move forward, technology incubation programme in Nigeria must be taken so seriously.

“What the Federal Government needs to provide is just the infra-

But I think the Federal Ministry of Science and Technology and the Ministry of Finance are aware of what the National Board for Technology Incubation is doing; creating jobs, and eradicating poverty. If Nigeria wants to move forward, technology incubation programme in Nigeria must be taken so seriously

structure, leave the rest for those manning the centres. Provide the supportive environment. I have discovered that Nigerians are ready even to go head on into manufacturing if they have an environment conducive enough to do their job.

“Until we resist the idea of turning ourselves into consumers of imported things that have eaten into our marrows and start producing our own, all these unemployment problems in Nigeria will persist.

“Technology incubation programme in Nigeria, if properly put to use, will help in providing employment opportunities for all the graduates that are churned out of the country’s higher institutions who are searching for white collar jobs that some times are non-existent. The centres would absorb these up-and- coming entrepreneurs being nurtured at the incubation centres,” Oni said.

He opined that the centre needs to take the products and business ideas of these young entrepreneurs to exhibitions, trade fairs, workshops and conferences so that the public or target group can be aware of them, even as he stressed that it has been taxing meeting these needs.

“I remember that in 2011, I had to take some products of this centre to the Ministry of Finance to convince them on our ability to produce the products. We should know that if we want to grow industrially, we need overhead support so that the entrepreneurs can be supported.

“We need to take their products to exhibition and trade fairs, we need to take their products to workshops and conferences and we need to support them.

“They are just coming up. We can’t ask them to bring the money

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14, 2012

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Agency pledges manpower development

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HE United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) has reiterated its policy of human capital development.

The organisation has done much to boost capacities of thousands of people around the world.

Since its inception in 1965 as an autonomous agency of the United Nations, UNITAR has built sustainable partnerships acquiring unique expertise and accumulating experience and knowledge to fulfill its mandate.

These accomplishments have enabled the institute to respond to the growing demand from UN member states for training and capacity development in the fields of environment; peace, security and diplomacy; and governance.

In furtherance of its mission to help propel local development, UNITAR had opened its Nigeria office in Port Harcourt, Rivers State on March 23, 2006.

The decision to site the office in Port Harcourt was necessitated by the desire to operate closer to the grassroots where actions are most needed. Working in collaboration with federal, states and local authorities, the office has been implementing various training and capacity-building activities.

Initial conceptualisation of UNITAR

From Clarice Azuatalam, Port Harcourt

Nigeria was based on two main pillars of UNITAR Local Development Programme: close co-operation with regional governments, local authorities and elected municipalities on the one hand, and strong, transparent public-private partnerships on the other hand.

Since its inauguration, UNITAR Nigeria has focused attention on the following thematic areas: Negotiation and conflict resolution (ADR); governance and local administration management; economic and social development planning; business development; environmental protection and compliance; assessment and monitoring; and training and capacity-building of requisite technical manpower for the oil and gas industries.

According to Dr Larry Boms, Head/ Resident Representative, UNITAR Nigeria, at the fulcrum of the organisation’s activities is the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) which countries have agreed upon to help propel global economic development and promote sustainable peace-building.

In this regard, Dr Boms emphasised

that UNITAR Nigeria partnerships and engagements focus on capacitybuilding of individuals at the grassroots and strengthening of institutional capacities which are germane to human and sustainable development.

He disclosed that the organisation’s training and capacity-building programmes either provide the beneficiaries with skills and knowledge that they currently lack or build on existing skills to promote efficiency and effectiveness in service delivery.

A few examples of such training programmes include specialised technical courses which focus on capacitybuilding of youths from the Niger Delta region to enable them to be qualified for direct employment in the oil and gas industry and other sectors where these skills are in demand.

The courses, which hold in Namibia and Norway, so far touch on five technical areas including automation, drilling, welding, machining and instrumentation. At present, more than 150 youths have benefitted from this particular training with the positive implications on the local content policy being championed by government to encourage local participation in the oil industry, the Federal Government-initiated post-amnesty pro-

gramme in the Niger Delta region, and the advantage it gives to the beneficiaries to compete effectively in the job market and demonstrate their skills in the workplace.

UNITAR Nigeria has also contributed to empowering people with skills needed for effective implementation of various social policies and value creation for the people. These courses are held in form of training of trainers’ workshops, awareness seminars, and conferences all of which adopt the participatory methodology.

Some of the courses are on issues such as monitoring and evaluation of projects, participatory budgeting, and environment, with specific emphasis on addressing the impacts of climate change and combating environmental hazards.

While UNITAR Nigeria activities are currently mainly based in the Niger Delta region, a CIFAL Centre soon to be inaugurated in Benin-City, the Edo State capital, will be a regional hub for capacity development which will bring together the public and private sectors, and civil society groups not only from across Nigeria but all over Anglo-phone West African subregion.

Training activities will be delivered at the centre which will assist and build

•Dr Boms capacity of the local actors for effectiveness and to achieve sustainable development.

Dr Boms said that UNITAR Nigeria has positioned itself to make a significant contribution towards addressing emerging capacity development needs of its partners in Nigeria and beyond, noting also that the “institute seeks to increase its outreach capacity by developing strategic and privileged partnerships with centres of excellence, including academia and professional training services, agencies of government, private sector and •Continued on Page 38

Council chief presents scorecard

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HE chairman transition committee, Akoko Edo Local Government Area of Edo State, Hon. Anselm Agbabi has said that his ability to touch the 10 wards in the local government area was due to the leadership style of the state governor, Comrade Adams Aliyu Oshiomhole.

Hon. Agbabi, who disclosed this in Benin-City the state capital at a press conference, said he was able to deliver dividends of democracy because of the personality, charisma and leadership style of the governor.

He said: “When a man like the Comrade Governor gives you an assignment, you just cannot afford to fail. In clear terms, the governor told us to focus on education and such other projects that will have direct impact on a greater number of our people.

“Since he gave this matching order, it’s not been business as usual.

For me, I have been on my toes, executing one project or the other and from one community to the other, from one hamlet to the other and from one town to another.

“For seven months now, I have hit the ground running because there would be no excuse as to why

I failed. The governor is a resultoriented person whose record of achievements within three-and-half years is unrivalled. The governor has a large heart and the required political will to deliver, which is why I decided to take after him by making sure we have completed projects in all the 10 wards in the local government area.”

While enumerating some of those projects he had executed within the period under review, Agbabi, who was a former Chief Whip, Edo State House of Assembly said: “We constructed a three classroom block with Headmaster’s office in ward 7 where the former Majority Leader of the House of Representatives, Hon. Tunde Akogun hails from.

“In doing this, we made sure we deplored the best materials such as step tiles aluminium roofing sheets; steel doors and windows; PVC ceiling and ceramic tiles and this is situated at Somorika. Also in the same ward, we constructed a triple box culvert and earth work along Aiyetoro/Somorika Road.

“As if that is not enough, we drilled a 150mm PVC (internal diameter) casing/construction of structural stand with 7,000 liters plastic tank at Ogugu Community

•On-going renovation of three classroom blocks in Ugboshi Afe

and constructed a block of three classrooms with Headmaster’s office at Ayami Primary School, Ugboshi-Ele. All these are in the same ward 7.

“In Ugboshi-Afe in Akogun’s ward, we have re-roofed and renovated the primary health centre there. We have rehabilitated Aiyegunle-Ugboshi-Ele Road and constructed a block of three classrooms with Headmaster’s office at Agbaneshimu Primary School.

“To further worsen the political fortunes of the opposition party and their leaders in this ward, we drilled and installed a 150mm diameter PVC borehole and constructed a galvanised steel structural stand with 10,500 liters plastic tank with a 7.5KVA power generating set at Ugboshi-Afe,” he explained.

For Agbabi, the task of ensuring the Comrade Governor’s victory in the July 14 2012 governorship election in Akoko Edo is a sealed deal.

He said: “Our records of performance will speak for us because politics is all about development and that is what our people want.”

Continuing, the council chief said that in wards one and two, both in Igarra the administrative headquar-

ters of the local government area, the council had drilled a 150mm PVC (internal diameter) casing/construction of structural stand with 8,000 liters plastic tank and a power generating set. The council has also rehabilitated Technical College Road and New Market Road in Igarra.

“We also constructed a block of six classrooms with Headmaster’s office at Iretoji Primary School in Igarra and rehabilitated Momodu Ajayi and Police Station Roads. Opoze Primary School is not left out as we have constructed a three classroom block •Water project in Ibillo, Akoko-Edo with Headmaster’s office, using step tiles and long span “we procured motor cycles, sewing aluminium sheets, steel doors and machines, dryers, power generatwindows, PVC ceiling and ceramic ing sets, grinding and vulcanising tiles. machines and hair cutting clippers “All said, I can tell you that our for our people’s use. record of achievements is unbeat“We share the dreams and aspiable, especially with the employ- rations of the Comrade Governor ment of over 300 people as council in the delivery of services to our staff, payment of over N150m both in tax refund, claims and salary ar- people and this is the spirit behind what we are doing in Akoko Edo rears.

“We also constructed about 600 Local Government Area. The peobenches and desks in selected pri- ple can see and feel what the govermary schools across the local gov- nor is doing in the entire state.

“In my local government area, ernment area and purchased a 24seater Hiace bus for Akoko Edo the people are grateful to have him line. and would do all within their He said that security and poverty power to return him to office bealleviation are other areas his coun- cause that is the only way they can cil has not neglected, even as he said pay him back.”

THE NATION WEDNESDAY MARCH 14, 2012

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B

•Shettima

ORNO State Governor Kashim Shettima has promised to reconstruct public schools destroyed recently by Boko Haram members in Maiduguri metropolis.

The group had taken responsibility for setting ablaze 10 schools in the city last month.

Shettima, who was inspecting one of the schools at Gwange, said the destruction of the schools was a huge set back, but pledged to ensure their quick reconstruction.

“It is hard, it is disturbing that our own sons are busy going about burning schools.

“The burning of schools cannot be justified under any guise because the Prophet of Islam during his time urged Muslims to seek knowledge even in far away China.”

Shettima said burning centres of learning was unIslamic and unjustifiable.

Kebbi to support security agencies

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HE Kebbi State government says it will increase its material and financial support to security agencies, to minimise crime in the state.

The Acting Governor of the state, Alhaji Habibu Jega, gave the assurance during a send-forth ceremony for the outgoing Kebbi State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Lateef Junaid, in Birnin Kebbi.

Jega, represented by the Acting Speaker, Alhaji Mohammed Bena, said Junaid had worked hard to ensure that security challenges facing other parts of the country were not experienced in the state.

He said that the pro-active measures adopted by the state police command during the commissioner's tenure, in conjunction with other security agencies, had curtailed crime.

The out-going commissioner, while

Kebbi replying, said his stay in the state had been successful due to the support and cooperation from the government, public, officers and men of the command.

He, however, identified indiscipline, poor welfare and obsolete equipment as the major challenges facing the Nigeria Police Force.

Jega expressed optimism that the present leadership of the Force would introduce measures to reverse its battered image.

He described Kebbi as the most peaceful state nationwide especially, considering the low rate of crimes.

Jega appealed to members of the public to provide useful information to the police to enable them to combat crimes.

Council gives free medical treatment

H

UNDREDS of residents of Apapa Local Government Area,Lagos State , last week came out to receive free medication for various ailments.

Speaking during the exercise, the council chairman, Hon. Ayodeji Joseph, stated that the project was embarked upon because of administration’s resolve to assist those who could not afford the cost of treatment for there aliments.

He also expressed the desire to ensure a healthy environment since this was the only way high productivity could be guaranteed in any society.

He said: “The proverb which says health is wealth is relevant after all. We stronglybelieve that it is only a strong and healthy body that can engage in other activities. A healthy community is a wealthy community.”

The programme which was done in conjunction with the Professional for Humanity (PROFOH), a foreign based organisation that had made remarkable impact in appreciating the health of Africans, would equally improve the council’s health profile.

Joseph said: “I want to thank the leadership of PROFOH for deeming it fit to stage this free health mission in our local government. This will make the people healthy and proactive in

Lagos

By Musa Odoshimokhe

development.”

The chairman urged the people to utilise the opportunity brought to them through the collaboration to attend to their wellbeing since most of them were constrained by financial challenges, a situation that had compounded their health profile.

Thanking the medical experts that constituted the team, he noted that their contribution in the field of health had not only received the applause of eminent leaders across the globe but had helped humanitarian activities to make life worth living.

Some of the recipients who spoke to Newsextra expressed joy at what the council did, they noted that but for its intervention, some of them would have lived with their ailments in hopelessness Mr Tunji Oloyede, resident of Apapa said: “We thank God for what the council has been doing, I will have the opportunity to attend to the eyes problem I have been facing, it is really a good programme and I hope the council does this from time to time.”

•Members of PROFOR and Apapa council’s executive during the exercise

Shettima to build schools

NGO trains 30,000 farmers

N

O fewer than 30,000 farmers were trained in various agricultural skills

by Sasakawa Global 2,000, a non governmental organisation in 2011.

Sasakawa Global 2,000 operates as a joint venture of two organisations — Sasakwa Africa Association and the Global 2000 programme of the Carter Centre in Atlanta, U.S. They represent the emergence of a progressive and prosperous smallholder commercial class interested in laying the foundation for the future of African agriculture by concentrating their resources on four African countries — Mali, Nigeria, Ethiopia and Uganda.

They derive their funding for projects from the Nippon Foundation of Japan.

Mr Jonathan Yassah, the State Coordinator of the programme, told journalists in an

Borno “These schools serve many purposes; in the morning pupils take lessons, in the afternoon they serve as adult classses and in the evening women classes are held.

“Some of these lessons are on Islamic teachings. So how can you say you are burning the same schools in the name of Islam.

“Islam is very clear on any issue, there is no part of the Quran that sanctions the burning of Churches and killing of people.

“If any one has any counter evidence on this he should come out and prove it.”

T

Ogun

He said he is out to change the concept of service.

He started this with the daily supply of newspapers to the library of Iganmode Grammar School in his constituency thereby keeping the students and management abreast of the latest in the information world. He went ahead to lay the foundation of a block of classrooms for teachers and students of the school. Aina got commendations from thousands of his people , who witnessed the foundation laying ceremony.

He equally donated a new wheelchair to a physically challenged senior secondary school student of the school .

His announcement of a monthly stipend for the upkeep of the student also received praises.

Aina while giving insight into the motive behind the donation of the wheelchair, stated that he had visited the school principal and was about leaving the principal’s office , when he noticed the student •Hon Aina with the student on the donated wheelchair , struggling to move his

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Eti-Osa chairman bags award

HE Executive Chairman Eti-Osa East Local Council Development Area, Alhaji Owolabi Yisa has been honoured as the best Local Government on Education. The award was given by Potential Magazine and received by the Vice Chairman of the council, Hon.Funmilayo Fiddi on behalf of the chairman at the Eko F.M Multipurpose Hall, Agindingbi Ikeja, on March 1.

Deacon Taiye Akindehin, the publisher of the magazine, in his speech, said he agreed to be part of the event because he shared in the dreams of those want to move Nigeria from a nation of self serving individuals to a nation that places high premium on selfless service, transparency, integrity, patriotism, love and commitment to the supreme wellbeing of the citizen.

The Deputy Governor of Osun State, Mrs. Tomori Olaoye who also represented the governor, praised the publisher for chosing the right people for the awards, she congratulated the awardees.

According to Hon. Fiddi, the council administration has done well by providing quality education in all the eight primary schools in its areas such as construction of block of new classrooms, modern toilets, perimeter fences and equipping them with generating set. Fiddi said more projects would be embarked on before end of this year in the education sector, health, drainage and infrastructure development.

The Vice Chairman used the opportunity

New board for society

•From left: Representative of the National President, Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), Engr. Akin Akintola; wife of NSE Chairman, Apapa Branch, Mrs. Adesanya and the Chairman of the branch Engr. A.O. Adesanya during the 2012 first induction ceremony in Lagos .

Lawmaker donates classrooms, wheelchair HE lawmaker representing Ota State Constituency in the Ogun State House of Assembly, Hon. Nurudeen Akinpelu Aina, has donated valuable items to his constituents to alleviate their suffering.

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to mention some achievements of the administration within 100 days in office such as renovation of legislative arms, roofing of secretariat with alluminium sheet , building new gate and multipurpose hall. The council has also empowered the young and old people.

She thanked the organiser of the award and prayed God should continue to strengthen them.

Those that also received awards were the Governor of Lagos State, His Excellency Mr. Babatunde Raji Fashola as the best Governor of the year, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola Governor of Osun State as man of the year and some local government chairmen and artistes like, Alhaji Kareem Adepoju (Baba Wande), Yemi Solade and Popular musicians like Aralola, Paul I.K. Dairo.

•Hon. Fiddi (left) receiving the award

old wheel chair.The lawmaker described as a “very pathetic “, the condition of the physically challenged student .

He said that the donation of the block of classrooms to the school was in fulfillment of his electoral promises as well as bringing the dividends of democracy to the people of the ancient town of Ota . He added that the need to change the face of facilities in many of the public schools in the area , necessitated the project.

“I observed that there were two many students in a class and that the school was not being supplied national dailies , So, I decided to donate a block of classrooms to them and to ensure that newspapers are daily supplied to them “ the lawmaker stated

Firm targets high turnover

By Toba Agboola

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HE Managing Director, Pharma Deko Nigeria Limited, manufacturers of the popular SANS Cream Sodar, Mr. Kunle Abibu, has said that the company’s turnover is expected to hit N10 billion in the next five years.

Providing indices of the company’s performance and its projection for the next five years, Abibu revealed that in 2010, the turnover recorded was N478million with 2011 showing a marked increase to 1.2 billion naira, which he claimed was an evidence of good performance record.

Speaking at an event to reward its customers at the Airport Hotel , Abidu said the decision of the company to reward the distributors was borne out of the need to invest in them so as to build confidence and renew its existing relationship which was built over the years.

According to him: “The spirit behind this exercise is a way of rewarding those who have remained loyal, as well as an indication that we are fully back into the market.”

While commenting on its challenges and potentials, the Executive Director, Mr. Isaac Bajulaiye, disclosed that some few challenges have constituted more as hindrances for the business to reach its full potentials but was however optimistic that it would grow considering the fact that all its products cut across all ages .

Some of the challenges he identified included working capital, financial investment needed to upgrade facilities and lack of awareness Meanwhile, Abibu, who was appointed in 2008,said effort was in the pipeline to secure a bail out to the tune of N1billion from Ecobank but admitted that there was delay owing to the bureaucracy involved in the merger between the bank and former Oceanic Bank .

Speaking further on this, he said if this was available, it would assist in achieving the needed turnaround particularly in bringing back some of its products that held sway in the past.

Adamawa interview that the training was aimed at educating farmers on how to secure soft loans from banks to improve on their yields.

“In 2011, about 30, 000 farmers across the state were trained on how to boost their harvest and source soft bank loans to establish their plots of various crops of their interest.

“Over 75 per cent of the farmers trained, succeeded in establishing their farms with gigantic harvest.”

He listed the activities of the NGO last year to include the establishment of 209 Women Assisted Demonstration (WAD) as well as 95 Technology Option Plots (TOP).

The coordinator added that 30 extension agents out of 52, were provided with motorcycle revolving loans, adfding that the remaining 22 would benefit from the loan this year.

According to him, the NGO conducted training for farmers, workshops for Agricultural Development Project enumerators

•Goveror Nyako and baseline survey to improve and set benchmarks for monitoring, evaluation and impact assessment of its programmes.

By Tajudeen Adebanjo

N Islamic organisation, Al-Fatih-ulQuareeb Islamic Society of Nigeria has reconstituted membership of its Board of Trustees (BOT).

At a press briefing in Lagos, Chairman of the BOT Alhaji Abdul-Mumin Adegoke said the lingering issue of reconstitution of the society’s BOT has been resolved.

“The Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) has by the issuance of a new certificate Ref. No. CAC/IT/NO 15645 dated 17th February, 2012 acceded to the society’s requests to replace a deceased member of the Board of Trustees Alhaji Munihim Taiye Tijani. May Allah grant him Aljanah Firdaous and also to increase the membership of the Board of Trustees from nine to ten,” he said.

In her quest for progress, Adegoke said the young organisation faced developmental challenges resulting in the need to reconstitute her BOT members.

The newly reconstituted members include Mr Ismail Bello; Alhaji Surajudeen Owodunni; Mr Ismail Ayodele; Alhaji Rasheed Bello; Brigadier Gen. Abass Adekanye; Alhaja Risikat Malik; Alhaja Faidat Alade; Alhaji Sikirulahi Falade and business tycoon Alhaja Muinat ShopeyinAkande.

By this development, Adegoke said the unity and oneness of the society is hereby re-affirmed.

“The Quareeb family as she is fondly called is one and she is ready to take her rightful place in the comity of Islamic organisations. The Board of Trustees as the custodian of the society’s values and interests is assuring all members of the society, the entire Muslim Ummah and the general public that it shall always strive to uphold and even promote the sacred unity among members of the society.

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•Founder, Glory Christian Ministries (GCM), Pastor Iruofagha S. James (second left) declaring open his church 20th year anniversary. With him are Bishop Mike Okonkwo of The Redeemed Evangelical Mission (TREM), his wife, Peace and Bishop John Osaoni of Vineyard Christian Church, at Oshodi-Apapa Expressway, Lagos.

Security agents fault Customs move from ECOWAS house

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OME officers of the Nigerian Customs Services and other security agents who operated from the ECOWAS twin building at Seme but were made to move to the Atlas Park at the border have said it could pose a security risk.

Sources said the relocation followed the initiation of the European Union-sponsored ECOWAS Border Development Project, said to have a nine-month duration.

Customs offices said to be affected by the

relocation are those of Height Regulation Unit, Baggage Assessment, Valuation Unit, ECOWAS Trade Liberalisation Scheme, among others.

Some of the affected security officers, who now operate from makeshift containers or sit in front of the Atlas Park, expressed dissatisfaction at the development.

They said the government ought to have made better alternative arrangement before beginning the project considering the sensitive state of security at the border.

A businessman, Jude Aka, said the single entry and exit points causes artificial delay in crossing the border due to the project.

However, an officer of the Association of Nigeria Licenced Customs Agents, Mr Emma Okwoche, hailed the border development, urging the contractor to speed up work before the rains begin.

Police warn vehicle owners

•The new office

THE Lagos State Police warn all vehicle owners packed the state CID, Anti-robbery section, Panti to remove them immediately or forfeit some through auction. They are: 1. Toyota Stema car AE979FFA 2. Toyota High lauder car JP 604ABC 3. Honda Saloon car XT43EKY 4. Nissa & Terrak Jeep unregistered 5. Nissan Quest Jeep PV701AAA 6. Honda Accord car Unregistered 7. Vandalised Volvo car unregistered 8. Honda Accord car UL734KJA 9. Scrap Toyota cavina car unregistered 10. Honda Accord DQ317APP 11. Jincheng motorcycile QY301FST 12 Suzuki motorcycled QN77A APP 13. Fenco motorcycle QM828 LND Ojo Division Toyota carina Saloon PH353 AAA Okoko Division Honda Saloon car DT391LSD

Briefly

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14, 2012

Life

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Text only: 08023058761

‘I am married to books’ •Akinyemi-Sears

UK- based Nigerian author and multiple award winner Atinuke Akinyemi-Sears recounts her love for books, profound passion for Africa and children – PAGE 30

Theatre defies security threat on the Plateau

To Dakar for Biennale

– Page 31

– Page 33

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14, 2012

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•Atinuke thrilling some children in the UK

She is a writer, wife and mother. Award-winning UK-based Nigerian author Atinuke loves children. Her works are children-friendly. The author’s profound passion for her continent and children has earned her fame across the globe, writes EVELYN OSAGIE.

H

ER works, which border on the exciting adventures in the life of an African child, are stealing the hearts of children and critics globally.

United Kingdom-based Nigerian Atinuke Tanya Akinyemi-Sears (known simply as Atinuke) is the author of the rousing children books: Anna Hibiscus series, No. 1 Car spotter series and Anna Hibiscus Song, which international critics describe as “a deep breath of fresh air in the world of children’s literature”. The multiple-award winning story-teller has successfully woven thrilling lines that children in the UK and the United States enjoy. Her books have shown how exciting the life of African children can be. The books are winning awards and enjoying honourable mention across the US and the UK. These include this year’s Gryphon Awards Honour Book; Notable Books for a Global Society (NBGS) Book Award and Cybils Award. They were also named as last year’s 100 Books for Reading and Sharing and 100 Magnificent Children’s Books that every library should have; and won last year’s Globe Horn Book Awards in New York, USA. Time Out, New York also named Anna Hibiscus as one of the best read 50 titles for kids. It was listed along with the Harry Potter books, The Secret Garden, The Cat in the Hat, The Tale of Peter Rabbit, Where the Wild Things are and other great books. Under the headline: 50 Best ever Books for Kids, Time Out’s Elizabeth Bird wrote: “Anna Hibiscus deserves to become a classic”.

Atinuke was one of those honoured by Brown Bookshelf.

She also featured in Black History Month Celebration of Black Authors and Illustrators of note: 28-day later. Hers was day 10.

You only need to meet her once to appreciate her deep passion for African folktales and children. As an author, she is a passionate about African child and literature. She is a professional oral artist, who is sharing African oral folktales and those of Haiti, with children in the UK and US. She draws from her Yoruba ancestry, England and Wales, and ancient origins of Spain, Portugal and China, to tell stories from the world of folktales and contemporary life.

She said: “One day, pregnant with my first son, I told a story to some bored children at a festival and that’s when my proper job found me! I haven’t stopped telling stories since. The first moment I walked onto a stage to tell a story

‘I am married to books’ LITERATURE (as a favour to a friend who had been let down by the performer she had booked) I was hooked – and so was the audience! By word of mouth, my reputation grew, and soon I was telling tales all over the UK in schools and libraries, festivals and theatres -including the Barbican Theatre in London. I tell traditional stories from Africa and the African Diaspora. I set these traditional tales in the Africa I know and love - a world where village chiefs use mobile phones and village boys wish for BMW’s and ipods. When

‘I wanted desperately to be a boy, then an adventurer, and an author.

I was told two of these were impossible and the other dangerous.

So, I read on instead. In my childhood, I was called the long-eared parrot – for annoying my mother by turning every ordinary event into an extraordinary story!’

I’m telling African tales, it’s like being home in Nigeria!”

Telling stories to a live audience often excites Atinuke. “I don’t have to worry if the story is any good! I also love the fact that each audience brings out different aspects of each story though its responses. A story is never told the same way twice, because the audience is never the same twice. I am especially fond of Haitian tales. I love the fact that when I get up on stage to tell stories I am telling a story that humans have been telling to each other for centuries, that has proven to be important,” she said.

On a visit to Nigeria, Atinuke told this reporter about her passion for stories. Beyond telling stories, she said she also writes them for the world to read. In 2005, she wrote Anna Hibiscus as a response to children’s questions about growing up in Africa. Anna Hibiscus and No 1 series are for children above six. Last year, Anna Hibiscus’s Song, a picture book, was published for younger children.

“I told stories for a living (because I had been told it was impossible to be an author - and I had believed them). Until one winter in Wales - too ill to get up, go out and tell stories; too ill to go home to my fatherland - I found myself in the circumstances in which I write best (alone and bored and empty). I wrote about what I was missing... I wrote Anna Hibiscus, which is a joyful response to the questions of many children in the West, both of African descent, had always shocked and saddened me, especially as they had not changed since I was a little girl. They expected Africa to be about poverty, mud huts and wild animals. The star of my series has a traditional and joyful African childhood in a modern city. Very much like my childhood, Anna’s life is normal and fun! I was not expecting to have the book immediately accepted for publication but it was - by Walker Books. I am delighted to have signed 13 book contracts with them since then! The No.1 Car Spotter series has joined the Anna Hibiscus. It is a celebration of what it is to be a boy (thanks to the inspiration provided by my brother and sons, my cousins and uncles!). The hero, unlike Anna, is poor, and does live in a traditional village in the bush (where there are wild animals). And his experience is joyful and • empowered! 2010 saw my books being published in the States by Kane Miller. Last year my first big picture book for younger children, Anna Hibiscus’s Song, was published.

And there are more to come. I hope that my books demonstrate, and celebrate, how normal, modern, carefree, and •Continued on page 34

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•From left: Emmanuel Ekpe as (Bobby Parker), Ambore Ibrahim as (Russell Parker) and David Ubong Umoren as (Theopolis Parker) in Lonne Elder III’s Ceremonies In Dark Old Men directed

by Osasogie Efe Guobadia.

•From left: Ebuka Ifebunso as (Ezeulu) and Ejiroghene Oghenechovwen as (Akuebue) in Emeka Nwabueze’s When The Arrow Rebounds directed by Patrick-Jude Oteh.

Theatre defies security threat on the Plateau Considering the security situation , organisers of the Jos Festival of Theatre were not too sure whether to host the event or not. But, with effective strategic planning and logistic support from partners, they rolled out the big drums, Assistant Editor (Arts) OZOLUA UHAKHEME reports.

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ESPITE the tension in Jos, Plateau State, the sixth Jos Festival of Theatre recorded an impressive turn-out. The festival, which ran from February 25 to March 2, kept to schedule except for when it was adjusted to enable audience return home early.

According to the producer, Mr Patrick Jude Oteh, the turn-out was amazing considering Jos is under siege.

He there was an average attendance of 300 guest, while on some days, the chairs were simply not enough. He said that the festival had its own challenges especially during early eveningsperforrmance which atrracted armed policemen from the ‘A’ Division, Jos and members of the Special Task Force.

“We must praise the policemen who always turned out neat and polite and stayed away from the performance venue while keeping a watchful eye on all proceedings,” he said.

The festival, a private initiative of the Jos Repertory Theatre, was last held in 2009 because of the crisis.

“This edition of the festival took cognisance of the security situation as all performances started at 5.00pm and ended at 6.30pm instead of the earlier advertised 7pm. After the bomb blast at the COCIN Headquarters Church, the post-performance discussions were cancelled to enable the audience who turned out in their hundreds to get home on time and safely too,” he said.

Oteh said though there were some challenges, especially in the area of security, the festival objectives were achieved with the support of the US Mission in Nigeria. The festival featured five plays, three workshops and participation by an independent group based in Jos as well as a group from Port Harcourt.

Participants were advised to restrict their movements and if they had to venture out it was to be with a guide provided by the theatre organisation.

Oteh said that workshops on arts management, directing and salsa dance, which were new additions to the festival schedule were held, adding: “the idea behind the salsa dance workshop was to create a new pool of performers who will be ready to inculcate the art of musicals into their work and incorporate various dance forms musicals will be the future of the Nigerian theatre”.

He said the arts management seminar was aimed at grooming a new pool of arts managers who will not only hold up the acting side of the profession but also create a pool of professionals who will seek funds and plan programmes with enduring theatre organisation.

The directing workshop was aimed at creating a new pool of directors who will want to work within the

THEATRE

‘This edition of the festival took cognisance of the security situation as all performances started at 5.00pm and ended at 6.30pm instead of the earlier advertised 7pm. After the bomb blast at the COCIN Headquarters Church, the post performance discussions had to be cancelled to enable the audience who turned out in their hundreds to get home on time and safely too’ theatre circuit.

The five plays performed included Emeka Nwabueze’s When The Arrow Rebounds which is the stage adaptation of Chinua Achebe’s novel: Arrow of God. The play examines the mindset and mood of the chief priest of Ulu, Ezeulu, who becomes bitter towards his clansmen because he felt they took sides with the whiteman when he was detained for trying to force him to take the title of District Chief. He told the white man that he would only be priest of Ulu and nothing else. When he was eventually released, he felt his people did not treat him fairly as they did not come to his defence. He decided to retaliate by not proclaiming the annual new yam feast. The people with their crops rotting in the ground and faced with starvation Christianity to save themselves and their crops. Ezeulu was to later go insane when his second son, Obika died in the service of the community and he could not get any explanation from Ulu whom he felt he had served faithfully.

Lonne Elder III’s Ceremonies in Dark Old Men explored the tragedy of the Russell Parker family. Their elder sister, Adele is the only one working in a family of five. She pays the rent. She has ordered them all to get jobs within the next 14 days or face ejection from the house but her father is the owner of the house and owns the barber’s shop in the house. They eventually get jobs – father and one of the sons, Theo become bootleg whisky vendors while the last son of the family Bobby turns to stealing all the while been manipu-

lated by a con man named Blue Haven. Bobby gets killed during one of their operations and Mr Parker is conned by a girl he picked up and had hoped to marry.

It is the tragic story of a dysfunctional family.

Another family story was in Adinoyi Ojo Onukaba’s Bargain Hunting. It is the story of mercy killing – Abe is struck by a terminal brain tumour which renders him a vegetable. His wife, Rachel, moved by what she thinks is kindness on her part kills him but in the middle of this act, their son, Ari comes into the room and witnesses their father being killed by their mother. He takes the scene in calmly but the day of reckoning is not too far away as on the 10th anniversary of Abe’s death, Ari decides to sell everything in the house. His sister, Leah objects and gradually the story of how their father died unfolds in the presence of Dada who had come in to buy the soon to be auctioned goods.

Dipo Agboluaje’s migration fantasy For One Night Only was also on stage during the seven-day festival.

It is the story of two young men – Eddie and Bode who find themselves in London with no papers and no legal backing behind their stay thus they resort to the barest means of earning a living. They play the lottery, work in an orchard and perpetually dream of making it big in Covent Garden. But it is all fantasy as this only happens in their minds with the audience watching their many escapades.

At Crawley in one of their many fantasies, they run into an old man whom they call uncle who advises them to go back to where they have come from as they would continuously have to dodge even the police sirens. They ignore him, learn the ropes from him and continue their search for a partner who will sing in their tour trio.

The final play was Barrie Stavis’ The Man Who Never Died. The truly heart wrenching drama is the portrayal of the life of Joe Hill a Swedish migrant worker who came to the US in search of the golden fleece. He joins the Industrial Workers of the World (I.W.W.) and becomes one of their chief organizsers as well as songwriter. It was only a matter of time before he becomes involved in a collision course with the establishment led by John T. Moody, a copper baron who practically owns the entire town. Together with the police and the prosecutors, Joe Hill is framed for murder and eventually he was found guilty in a trial which is still raising commentaries almost a century after the act. He was shot on the night of November 15, 1915.

All the plays showed a depth and understanding of the aims, which the festival to achieve which was ‘the theatre as a communal meeting point’. The festival was an initiative aimed at celebrating the achievements of African-Americans during the annual Black History Month.

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14, 2012

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The Midweek Magazine LIFELINE

Terra Kulture hosts Little Drops…

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VERY Sunday in March, theatre enthusiasts will be treated to fun-filled Sundays at the Terra Kulture Art Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos. It will be home to action, art and drama as it hosts a stage play, Little drops make a big splash. The first edition was held last Sunday. Produced by Joke Silva and directed by Kenneth Uphopho, it will run on March 11, 18 and 25 at Terra Kulture, Tiamiyu Savage, Victoria Island, Lagos.

The play is a story rooted in the Niger-Delta crisis, which gives an intriguing account of four women who meet in the strangest of circumstances, each telling her unique story. “I must say it is ‘fait accompli’ for us staging the drama ‘Little Drops’,” said PR Coordinator and actress, Kemi Akindoju.

“We have been working hard on this project for a while and we are sure everyone would love it. We are also excited about how much it would educate Nigerians about the Niger-Delta and the lessons it brings for national development,”she added.

Little drops make a big splash is written by Prof. Ahmed Yerima, and it gives a compelling eye view of how the Niger-Delta people survive a deadly crisis. The drama will feature Taiwo Adeyemo, Kemi ‘Lala’ Akindoju, Paul Alumona, Omoye Uzamere, Ijeoma Grace Agu, Abiodun Kassim and other actors.

Rainbow Book Club celebrates Charles Dickens

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AINBOW Book Club, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, joins the literary world to celebrate Charles Dickens, whose 200th birthday was marked by several literary outings in various parts of the world by selecting his book, A Tale of Two Cities as the Book-of-the month for March. The reading will take place on March 30 from 11am till noon at the Le Meridien Hotel, Port Harcourt.

The second of eight children, Dickens was born on February 7, 1812 in the English seaport of Portsmouth. His father’s wide collection of books provided an avenue of escape into a fantasy world, away from the financial challenges of the family. He worked as a reporter for several years, and is quoted as having said that the wholesome training of severe newspaper work launched his writing career.

The author of books such as, Great Expectations, A Christmas Carol, Oliver Twist, David Copperfield among others, started by writing amusing stories with sketches, which in 1836 were published in a collection titled sketches by Boz .

A tale of Two Cities, which has sold well over 200 million copies, ranks among the most famous works in the history of fiction literature. It is set in London and Paris before and during the French revolution, highlighting the plight of the French peasantry under the despotic rule of the French aristocracy and paralleling this to the social scene of London, at the time.

The book was selected for its relevancy to the times we are living, which were elaborately captured in the 2011 Arab spring. … it was the spring of hope, it was the winter of despair, we are all going direct to heaven, we are all going direct the other way…

Reading Afejuku’s, others books

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HE ancient city of Benin in Edo State has hosted a book reading tagged Reading for Development by Creative Alliance Book Club and Literary Society at St. Maria Goretti School Hall.

It featured authors of A Garden of Moods, Prof. Tony Afejuku; To Saint Patrick and Fine Boys by Dr. Eghosa Imasuen, and notable poet, Michael Ipogah.

It was the first time Imasuen, a medical doctor-turned-writer, will read in Benin City having made a name for himself in such cities as Lagos, Ibadan and Abuja.

He said: “I have always been bothered by the quietness in the literary scene down here. It is a great thing to read here in Benin City, to speak to my people, to ask them, ‘can I be one of your voices?’ Nothing can compare to the validation their answer will give me”.

He read from his latest work, Fine Boys, a work set in the twin cities of Benin City, Edo State and Warri, Delta State, that traces how easily Nigeria descended from a model country to one of sundry ills and how its young become consumed by the virus eating up its social fabric.

Also making the reading a worthwhile experience for all culture enthusiasts in attendance were soft drink giant, Coca Cola Coke, Benin Plantain, which provided refreshment for guests.

The event was supported by Creative Alliance with its innovative project, Literary Star Search contest. Its spokesperson, Seun Jegede, said going to Benin City to support the reading, as it did at Ibadan a month ago, is part of Creative Alliance’s effort to take literary development to all parts of the country.

Jegede, therefore, charged writers in the Literary Star Search contest in and around Benin City to seize the moment being offered to deepen their love for the promotion of literary activities in their part of the country. He urged writers yet to enter for the competition to visit www.creativeallianceng.com for further details on how to participate and be part of the most innovative, grassroots contest in the country.

Other writers who thrilled guests included Dr. Kola Eke and Dr. P. Airevba.

E-mail:- ozoluauhakheme@yahoo.com

A journalist, Nehru Odeh, believes writing should go beyond aesthetics. A good writing, according to him, should trigger a change in society. In this chat with EVELYN OSAGIE, he speaks on his writings and more

‘Writers should create change’

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EHRU Odeh is known for his articles in The News Magazine. His incisive pieces earned him the conference editor of the 14th International Conference on AIDS and Sexually Transmitted Infections in Africa (ICASA) in 2005. He has worked as a book and conference editor. Due to the creative nature of his pieces, many are not aware of his other side – creative writing. He was an active member of the Thursday Group, while he was at the University of Ibadan (UI) where he studied Sociology. He was at the Ebedi International Residency Programme for over five weeks.

You were an active member of the famed Ibadan literary group. And for quite a while, we have not hear from you.

Why have you been silent?

It is not that I have been silent. I am still a very active part of the Ibadan literary group, and I am still in touch with all the members. The University of Ibadan was a very important phase of my development as a writer, and I always recognise that fact. I have been writing all this while because that is what I was born to do. It was because I had always wanted to be a writer that I decided to study at the University of Ibadan.

That was where the writers were at the time. I could never have gone to any university other than the University of Ibadan. Even when I chose University of Ibadan as my first and second choice at the Joint Matriculation Examination, many of my friends at home thought I was committing examination hara-kiri. But I was undeterred. Though I had been writing before I went to the university, immediately I entered UI, the writers there identified my talent and welcomed me into their group. At the university, we were passionate about literature and philosophy and some of our favourite writers at the time were – Salman Rushdie, Milan Kundera, T. S Eliot, Christopher Okigbo, J.M Coetzee, Ben Okri, Wole Soyinka and Chinua Achebe. I have not been silent. I still write. Maybe I have not been in the public consciousness because of existential reasons- work and family pressures.

That was why I needed a residency programme like the Ebedi International Writers’ Residency. Although while I was at the university I was known as a poet, now I write fiction. I have been honing my skills as a novelist. And with what I gained at the university and the training received at an International Creative Writing Workshop and I think this is the right time to show the world the stuff I am made of.

What does your writing address?

As a writer, I am trying to explore the human experience, to bring out every day experiences and cast them in a new and fresh light. Writing is a self- appointed mission. And mine in this case is to bring out the things which people see every day but don’t take cognizance of but which affect them and their world views in no small measure. I also write to shock the reader, to make him realise the evils in our society and the subtle ways he is being controlled and manipulated. So, I do not subscribe to the view which says writers should not paint a bad picture of the African society. My view is that every writer should write it the way it is so as to create the muchneeded change in our society. Today, the 200th anniversary of the birth of Charles Dickens is being celebrated because of the way he painstakingly portrayed the social injustice that was prevalent in the United Kingdom of his time.

How has your training as a journalist influenced your writing?

Journalism has impacted my writing positively in no small measure. First, it has taught me discipline. As a journalist I had the tyranny of deadlines and the discipline of limited time and space to contend with daily. And every writer needs that discipline. My training as a journalist is also related to my earlier love for poetry. Both professions have taught me not just the economy but also the importance of words. As a journalist and poet, I have learnt never to waste words and to

• Odeh

RESIDENCY use them in the right manner. Words are precious to every writer. Words are to the writer what tools and equipment are to the farmers and artisans. The way a writer makes use of words goes a long way in determining the quality of his works. And I always put this at the back of my mind whenever I am writing.

What is your experience at the Ebedi International Residency Programme like?

It was great. Before I came here I had been looking forward to a place like this, a place where I could be far away from Lagos, far away from the madding crowd, far away from the pressure of work, family, friends and society. I had looked forward to a place where I could write, write and write. And Ebedi provided the time, space and the right frame of mind to do that. I had never had that kind of unlimited time and space before I went to Ebedi. I praise Dr Wale Okediran and the board of Ebedi for the great work they are doing. So far the place has been very conducive and we have been having regular power, which is one of the most important things every writer needs.

What did you work on at the residency?

I am worked on a novel which I had started writing before I went there. I just needed the space and unencumbered time to complete it. The novel is woven around a polygamous family in an African society and the way the male child is privileged over the female child, the troubles families go through because of this social norm. Still my novel goes beyond that because it is a political satire and it tends to portray some of the ills in our society. I had planned to write at least a thousand words every day. And I knew it wasn’t going to be easy to achieve that.

Have you been able to achieve that target?

On average I was able to achieve that, though it wasn’t easy. It required a lot of sleepless nights, anxieties and headaches. At the end, I was able to do a substantial part of my work there and I am very happy. The point, really, is not about completing the work, but rather it is about finding time and space to do what I really love doing.

And that alone led to my achieving great things.

I do not subscribe to the view which says writers should not paint a bad picture of the African society. My view is that every writer should write it the way it is so as to create the much-needed change in our society. Today the 200th anniversary of the birth of Charles Dickens is being celebrated because of the way he painstakingly portrayed the social injustice that was prevalent in the United Kingdom of his time

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14, 2012

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WORKSHOP

Entrepreneur workshop opens at UNILAG

By Temitope Adeboye

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•Earth combing, by Chika Modum

To Dakar for Biennale

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ORTY-TWO artists (26 men, 16 women) from 21 African countries and one artist from Reunion Island have been selected for this year’s Dak’Art Biennale, Senegal, which will hold between May 11 and June 10. It coincides with the country’s general election as was the case in 2000.

Curators for the biennale are Christine Eyene, Nadira Laggoune and Riason Naidoo. Theme for this year is Contemporary Creation And Social Dynamics.

The artists include Adel Marwa (Egypt), Alleck Nirveda (Mauritius), Assie Romaric (Ivory Coast), Ba Cheikhou (Senegal), Baba-Ali Younes (Morocco), Baker Bridget (South Africa), Beckett James (South Africa), Caranda-Martin Doughba Hamilton (Liberia), Chachage Rehema (Tanzania), Cissé Mamadou (Senegal), Diallo Bakary (Mali), Emmanuel Paul (South Africa), Eyongakpa Em’Kal (Cameroon), Fatmi Mounir (Morocco), Foli Jessica (South Africa), Goliath Gabrielle (South Africa), Hoareau Stéphanie (France - Reunion Island), Kameli Katia (Algeria), Kimani Wanja (Kenya), Konan Pascal (Ivory Coast), Lamrani Jamila (Morocco), Mba Bikoro Nathalie (Gabon), Modisakeng Mohau (South Africa), Modum Chika (Nigeria), Mteki Nancy (Zimbabwe), Mutelekesha Victor (Zambia), Nasr Moataz (Egypt), Ndiaye Cheikh (Senegal) and Ngqinambi Ndikhumbule (South Africa).

Others are Niang Ibrahima Piniang (Senegal), Nsengiyumva Laura (Rwanda), Ramanankirahina Amalia (Madagascar), Sagna Henri (Senegal), Segueda Léopold (Burkina Faso), Seydi Mamady (Senegal), Shadi Lerato (South Africa), Sinzogan Julien (Benin), Tabti Oussama (Algeria), Tundula Christian (DRC), Youmbi Hervé (Cameroon), Zaidi Rafik (Algeria) and Zouggar Sofiane (Algeria).

This year also marks the 20th anniversary of the longest established biennale on the African continent. The theme for this edition is to examine, through various angles, the dialogue contemporary artists engage with in a social environment in constant change.

According to the Secretary-General of the biennale, Mr Ousseynou Wade, throughout the world and Africa in particular times of crises have always given way to periods of stability. Some countries, it said, are recovering from a financial crisis, others, from a social deadend; people’s movements have never been so crucial in the quest for a new equilibrium.

“In this quest, culture is one of the significant levers to activate. Each time, artists have played an instrumental role in social mobilisation and in the raising of individual and collective awareness and engagement” he said.

Contemporary creation and social dynamics is an investigative field that scholars, art critics and artists are invited to explore as part of the encounters and exchanges of the 2012 edition of the Biennale.

In addition to the international exhibition presenting

By Ozolua Uhakheme, Assistant Editor (Arts)

VISUAL ART

‘Spain will be honoured with a presentation of architects and visual artists at Maison de la Culture Douta Seck. Also, two exhibitions will pay homage to pioneering artists Papa Ibra Tall and Joe Ouakam. The encounters and exchanges will involve international participants to debate on the theme, Contemporary creation and social dynamics. The OFF will offer numerous exhibitions in Dakar, Saint-Louis and other venues in Senegal’ artists from several African countries and the diaspora at the Musée Théodore Monod, an exhibition at the Galerie Nationale will feature works by three invited artists: Peter Clarke, the late Goddy Leye and Berni Searle.

Spain will be honoured with a presentation of architects and visual artists at Maison de la Culture Douta Seck. Also, two exhibitions will pay homage to pioneering artists Papa Ibra Tall and Joe Ouakam. The encounters and exchanges will involve international participants to debate on the theme, Contemporary creation and social dynamics. The OFF will offer numerous exhibitions in Dakar, Saint-Louis and other venues in Senegal.

To arrive at the final list of artists for the biennale, the three-man selection committee met in Dakar from February 16 to 18, 2012. The members of the committee reviewed 300 applications submitted by artists from 36 African countries and 21 other countries. Each application was the object of lengthy discussions between the members of the international committee. The selection criteria were: the originality of the artistic approach, aesthetic and conceptual qualities, as well as the currency of the discourse, regardless of the theme of the 2012 Dakar Biennale.

The Dakar Biennale is organised by the Ministry in charge of Culture, Senegal with support from Organisation Internationale de la Francophonie, L’Union Economique et Monétaire Ouest Africaine, Ambassade de France, Ambassade d’Espagne, Communauté Française de Belgique, Institut Français, EIFFAGE, Fondation Blachère France and Ville de Dakar.

HE Second Art Entrepreneurship Workshop for professional artists and students of tertiary institutions will hold at the Department of Creative Arts, University of Lagos, on April 13 to 18 and June 7 to 12.

The workshop, which is sponsored by the Omooba Yemisi Adedoyin Shyllon Art Foundation (OYASAF), is expected to feature over 100 artists from across the country. Sessions will hold at the Visual Arts Studio, by the Lagoon front, Department of Creative Arts, University of Lagos.

According to the organisers, “this year, we would host a guest artist in the first series of collaborative workshop sessions involving photography, writing and drawing anchored by Brett Cook, a wellestablished African-American artist from Berkeley, California.”

Cook has carried out numerous public projects in the US, the Caribbean, and Mexico. His prized collections can be found in the Smithsonian Institute’s National Portrait Gallery in Washington DC, Studio Museum of Harlem in New York and Harvard University. He is a recipient of the smARTpower residency in Nigeria funded by the US Department of State. Cook would be sharing his work with interested participants and also conducting these workshops in tune with his conceived project for Nigeria entitled Sharing Culture at this workshop and in subsequent spaces under the joint partnership of the Bronx Museum of Arts, USA and the Women and Youth Art Foundation, Nigeria. OYASAF would also be sharing its work from its photographic archives.

The first session will include jewellery (chain mail/ wire knitting /sheet metal work/ bead stringing), Watercolour painting and an open session in ceramics. Facilitators include Ibe Ananaba, Ato Arinze, Sam Ovraiti and Ariyo Oguntimehin.

Workshop participation is free but applications are invited from interested participants. All applications should indicate only one area of interest, age, telephone number, email, web address and professional affiliation mailed to unilagoyasaf@yahoo.com.

Deadline for submission of applications is March 30. Successful candidates will be notified by April 2.

All art supplies would be provided. Accommodation will not be provided for any participant.

Dike’s Unknown Pleasures… holds at Lagos Museum

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NKNOWN Pleasures and competing tendencies, an exhibition of new works by Ndidi Dike, will open at the National Museum, Onikan Lagos, on Saturday. The solo exhibition will feature paintings, mixed media, and installation.

POEM

Tears of dark flesh

By Akewusola Habib

Cheers has been long said For my head.

The weather forecast predicts a Terrible temperature to comprehend.

Tears of revenge flow as My star goes shallow.

Stoning of fruits is old As darks root.

Thanks has no rank Pronounce, it appears every clan.

Several times I ask the mirror, Will my flesh make the nearest Future, My flesh would never turn red I don’t breath in regrets, All, lay on their chest in pretences Not knowing when sleep comes To blend.

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THE NATION WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14, 2012

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BOOK REVIEW Title:

‘I am married to books’

Procurement and Supply Chain Management:Emerging Concepts, Strategies and Challenges

Author:

Dr Ernest Ochonma

Reviewer:

Kayode Tinubu

•Continued from page 30

strong an African childhood can be.”

Although her books are currently enjoying international recognition, they are yet to be published here in Nigeria.

Atinuke told The Nation she is willing to partner with interested publishers who would want to publish the books here.

On the recognitions, she said: “It was all unexpected! It has been a wonderful experience and a great honour for me! I am so pleased with the popularity of my books – so pleased that my readers are ready to embrace a positive portrayal of Africa and her children. I celebrate with every child of African descent our origins - joyful, wholesome, and dignified.”

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HE book entitled, Procurement and Supply Chain Management; Emerging Concepts, Strategies and Challenges, written by Dr. Ernest Ochonma, a distinguished professional in supply chain management says it all.. It summarises the central message of the professional to present emerging concepts and strategies for managing modern procurement and supply chain functions in a most professional manner.

The phrase “Emerging Concepts, Strategies and Challenges” is curious and suggestive of the fact that there is now a global professional standard of expectation in the field of supply chain management which presently carries the toga of “international best practices” and therefore comes with modern concepts, strategies and challenges. So, one constant thing in this field is ‘change’; in concept, strategies and challenges. Therefore, practitioners in the field of procurement and supply chain management must also continually upgrade their knowledge base to adapt to the frequency of these changes.

The book contains fifteen papers. Paper one proposes a 7C Reform Model for developing nations towards enhancing the capacity to deliver affordable and efficient social services with minimal resources that are prudently managed.

It thus enunciates the seven key steps involved in the implementation of the Reform Agenda; • Conducting a national procurement spends analysis.

• Carrying out national procurement human resource audit.

• Conducting an assessment of national procurement capabilities.

•Comparing national procurement practices with international practices.

• Carrying out gap identification and analysis.

• Creating legal, regulatory and governance frameworks and structures; and • Creating institutions for continuous capacity development.

Paper two talks about the rising profile of the supply chain management function which comes with greater responsibilities and challenges; having metamorphosed from being a clerical function to a more robust chain of activities.

This paper adopts a comparative and analytical approach towards the understanding of the various traditional and modern concepts in procurement and supply chain management practice.

Paper three is on optimising supply chain value by using modern supplier selection tools and techniques, while Paper four is on inventory control systems and strategies vis-à-vis their effects on organizational performance.

Paper five enunciates the various emerging techniques for improving supply chain logistics operations, and it touches on new concepts like the business partner concept which replaces the supplier concept among others.

Papers six and seven dwell on the techniques of improving supply chain performance and supply chain cost savings, while Paper eight adopts strategic sourcing to create value for the procurement function; and Paper nine proposes category management strategy to manage procurement expenditure.

Paper ten touches not only on the need for a legal and regulatory framework for procurement and contracting activities, but also the expediency of the professional to understand the legal and regulatory environment of his suppliers

Profile

Managing modern procurement and contractors for optimum service delivery. Paper twelve propounds the theory of low cost country sourcing as a potent strategy to add significant value to an organization’s bottom line.

Paper 13 exhaustively discusses strategies, issues and terminologies in international procurements and logistics that organizations adopt to create and manage seamless synergies that optimize values.

Paper 14 dwells on the new concept of strategic contracting and contract management which seeks to integrate all contracting activities for goods, works and services in one department or division of an organisation, while the final paper elaborately discusses how best a procurement and supply chain can be successfully transformed from a cost centre to a profit centre if the conditions precedent are adequately put in place to aid the transition process.

This is indeed a lucid exposition of professionally researched theories on procurement and supply chain management, this professional manual is reader-friendly with good rhythmic flow and easy to understand dictions.

I found it pleasantly astonishing that a book of three hundred and 11 pages is totally devoid of grammatical or typographical errors; and the printing and packaging is undisputedly of very high quality. The writing style of the author is splendid, employing good choice of words and phrases to convey a professional knowledge that has been scarce in coming for several years now. I submit that Procurement and Supply Chain Management; Emerging Concepts, Strategies and Challenges is a must read for all professionals in Procurement and Supply Chain Management field. It is an invaluable tool for international best practices in the field. It is well researched, thoroughly professional and written in conversational style to aid easy understanding.

Atinuke lives in Wales, England, with her husband and two sons. At five, her father moved to Lagos, leaving her extended family behind at Ibadan. Locked inside their mansion with the iron gates, her love for books and stories was ignited. At 10, she left for school in England and has lived there since.

She recounted with nostalgia: “I was born in Ibadan to a Nigerian professor and an English editor and writer. I grew up in the company of my grandparents, aunties and uncles, cousins and siblings before moving to Lagos, where my father got a job when I was five. We went to live behind the high walls of a mansion in a quiet part of the city, and left our extended family behind. This is where my love affair with books and stories began, locked behind the lonely house. Our house was full of books, reading and writing and political discussion.”

As a girl, Atinuke was a child with extraordinary imagination. “I wanted desperately to be a boy, then an adventurer, and an author. I was told two of these were impossible and the other dangerous. So, I read on instead. In my childhood, I was called the long-eared parrot – for annoying my mother by turning every ordinary event into an extraordinary story! At 10, my parents agreed to send me to a boarding school in England.

And that marked the end of my childhood.”

That experience opened to her a new vista. “I wrote 10,000 words one year to get over a lost love and got into Oxford University instead. I studied Commonwealth Literature. I later went adventuring, living and travelling in England and France, Morocco and Germany and Spain; sleeping like a nomad on beaches and mountainsides. I sang for my supper, painted portraits, weeded gardens, worked as an artist’s model and lived in a round mud hut in the wild wet woods of Wales. I got through trials and tribulations of life by escaping into books and making up stories in my head. My journal stayed with me through all my adventures, crammed with poetry and reflections and questions,” she said.

Alibaba, Teju Babyface lead others to Comedy Infusion II S part of activities marking this year’s World Down Syndrome Day (WDSD), the Down Syndrome Foundation Nigeria (DSFN) will hold the second edition of its Comedy Infusion on Sunday at the Golden Tulip Hotel, Amuwo Odofin, Lagos.

The show, tagged Comedy Infusion II for Children with Down Syndrome, serves as awareness campaign and fundraiser for the organisation.

The event, which will parade the best in comedy, will feature popular acts such as Alibaba, Teju Babaface, Basket Mouth, Emeka Smith, Yaw, Julius Agwu, Gbenga Adeyinka, AY, Gordons, Klint Da Drunk and Korede Bello. Others include Seyi Law, Elenu, Shakara and with music entertainment coming from KC Brown, Buzopat, Solid Star, and Ara. It is being packaged in collaboration with Meljesten PR and Events and E-Smith Events. The Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Mrs Joke Orelope-Adefulire, will be the Mother of the Day and Mr Tonye Cole of Sahara Group, the special guest of honour. Tickets are on sale at the DSFN Resource Centre, Surulere, Lagos, and major eateries in the state.

The WDSD is celebrated on March 21 by down Syndrome organisations across the globe with lots of activities to raise public awareness on Down Syndrome. This year’s

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•Teju Babyface

By Evelyn Osagie

COMEDY edition will be the first officially recognised WDSD in history as recognised by the United Nations. The day will be celebrated at the UN Headquarters in New York, USA, on March 21 with the theme: Building Our Future.

The UN Secretary General, Mr. Ban Ki Moon, will preside over the conference.

According to the National President of the Foundation, Mrs Rose Mordi, special

•Alibaba

•Mrs Mordi

activities have been lined up globally and locally to mark the day, specially dedicated to people with down syndrome worldwide.

The foundation would participate in all the activities including the special conference which will be held at the UN Headquarters.

Mrs Mordi said: “The goal of the WDSD is to raise awareness for the Rights and Dignity of People with Down syndrome and to celebrate people with DS and help them actualise their potentials and live a fulfilled life.”

DSFN kick-started this year’s activities last Wednesday with its inter-house sport showcasing the strength of the members in sports. The fun-filled event featured several sporting activities like sprints, long jump, egg racing and other fun sports.

Aside the inter-house sport and comedy show, DSFN will be holding a picnic for children with DS, their families and friends.

They will also be paying courtesy visits to dignitaries to raise the awareness of the rights of people with DS.

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First world heritage site stirs community project

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HE National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM) has over the years been trying to improve the living standards of the Sukur community in Adamawa State .

The NCMM is involved in all facets of the community – the first enlisted UNESCO World Heritage site in Nigeria.

There is the recent skill acquisition programme for women on crafts and bead making, construction of an interpretation and resource centre for the site, provision of communication equipment (walkie-talkie) for use on the site.

To assist the community with sufficient water supply – Sukur cultural landscape is on arid land –the NCMM, led by its DirectorGeneral Mallam Yusuf Abdallah Usman, provided water for 15 wards by digging 45 wells, three for each ward.

As the main federal agency that oversees and manages museums, monuments and sites throughout the country, the commission has undertaken some developmental projects in the site including periodic conservation and restoration of work at the sites, establishment of mini museums at the hill top, provision of firefighting equipment like fire extinguishers and buckets, provision of two motorcycles for the site staff, provision of water resistant signage at important locations in the area. It has also constructed toilets in the area (two uphill and two down) for indigenes and tourists.

As part of its educational activities geared at the intellectual empowerment of the people, the NCMM has also organised at least two workshops for the community aimed at sensitising them towards the conservation and security of the site and arming them with the right attitude toward tourists. One of such workshop is on fire prevention and fire fighting. It has also produced promotional materials like CDS, brochures, cards, posters and pamphlet for the site.

The Commission has equally assisted in procuring working tools for the community in the course of carrying out maintenance work, it also provided two motorcycles for the site staff to enable them carry out their day-to-day activities in the area.

The NCMM has also recruited indigenes of Sukur Community on its payroll as resident site guides. Other staff in her payroll involved in immediate management of the site includes the site archaeologists, heritage officer and site manager.

In its effort to ensure that the community functions effectively in carrying out their various activities, the commission has provided a 200KVA generator for the uphill community, to be installed very soon.

Apart from the preliminary but quite scientific and tedious work which culminated in listing the site, the commission has been partnering with various agencies such as UNESCO, Adamawa State Government, through the Ministry of Works and Housing, Adamawa State Agency, for Museums and Monuments, Youth leaders, women and community leaders to ensure that the integrity of the site is not compromised in any way.

According to the Director General Mallam Yusuf Abdallah Usman, “part of the challenges faced by NCMM in managing these sites is paucity of funds and developmental project because the community is up in the hill”. To be able to enjoy modern facility is always a struggle.

All efforts are geared to maintaining the original condition of the sites and making sure that the integrity of the site is not compromised in any way. The Director General also expressed his gratitude to the Government of Adamawa in partnering with the NCMM to ensure that necessary facilities are put in place. He praised the government of Adamawa most especially for the construction of the main road from town to the foot of the hill. He equally commended them for the construction of chalets for proper accommodation of tourists and other laudable projects they have carried out so far in the community.

Sukur is located in Madagali Local Government Area of Adamawa State of Nigeria along Nigeria/Cameroon border, some 290km from Yola, the Adamawa State capital of north eastern Nigeria. It is a hilltop settlement which stood at an elevation of 1045m. The total land area covered by the site is 1942.50 (ha) with core zone having 764.40 (ha) and the buffer zone 1178.10 (ha) respectively.

Sukur is an ancient settlement with a recorded history of iron smelting technology, flourishing trade and strong political institution dating back to the 16th Century A.D. The landscape is characterised by terraces on the A member of the community farmlands, dry structures and stone paved walkways.

Sukur cultural landscape represents remarkable social, economic, political and spiritual values which continue to define the existence and relationships of this hilltop community. The intangible cultural attributes associated with festivals and ceremonies, belief systems, rituals and taboos are indicative of the persistent social life the landscape represents. The revered position of the Hidi as the political and spiritual head of the community is underscored by the magnificent dry stone architectural work which represents his palace.

The terrace farming skills and the cattle fattening process which is achieved through the construction of circular cattle pens are contemporary examples of ingenious use of local resources and adaptations to environment for subsistence and economic gains.

The history of Sukur, as contained in oral traditions and supported by ethnographic and archaeological evidence is significant as a result of the iron smelting technology, long distance trade, strong political and religious authorities of the Hidi as characteristics of an ancient kingdom. These factors made Sukur a force to be reckoned with in the region. Trade links were said to have spread as far as the ancient Kanem-Borno Empire and parts of present day Cameroon.

The Sukur community has maintained series of traditional festivals and ceremonies that harmoniously bring together the community on regular basis to ensure peaceful co-existence and cooperation among them and their neighbours. The social hierarchy such as age-grade system, kinship institution and traditional status within the community have helped to instil discipline and self respect among all segments of the community and minimise internal conflict.

Despite the existence of Christianity and Islam among the people, the Sukur community believes in the supremacy of one God (Zhigla) and have shrines where sacrifices and libations are made for propitiation. They also believe in the existence of spirits and super men (Matlayang) who perform special assignments on behalf of the community like the construction of the palace gates and the paved walkways. The community is also guided by strong taboos that prevent sacrilegious actions and promote the well being of the community.

The stone architecture of Sukur is exemplified in the construction of enclosure walls, corrals, gates, paved walkways, houses and Hidi’s palace as an outstanding example of the stone architecture. This represents an ingenious traditional technology and craftsmanship.

The Sukur cultural landscape offers opportunities for in-depth studies in areas such as biodiversity, eco-tourism, linguistics, archaeology and comparative analysis through inter-disciplinary research to enable a better understanding of dynamics of culture and nature and the evolutionary trends in cultural anthropology.

The technique of terrace farming developed in this cultural landscape has sustained their agrarian lifestyle over the centuries.

The iron smelting technology has enabled the provision of agricultural implements as well as supplies the needs of their neighbours in terms of metal tools. The practice of animal husbandry is widespread and the traditional method of fattening cattle is outstanding using natural environment to achieve not only self sufficiency but also technological and economic superiority.

Sukur landscape is endowed with rich biodiversity and Precambrian geological formations. The biodiversity includes a variety of potent medicinal plants, some of whose efficacy has been proven and commonly in use among the community for many generations. The existence of endangered species of animals such as Baboons, monkeys and reptiles as well as a host of eviest present the site as a valuable resource for scientific research. The geological formation which is an extension of the great Mandara mountain range yields alluvial and ferruginous deposits which served as a source material for the ancient iron smelting technology among Sukur community.

Artists hold exhibition at Freedom Park

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HE Visual Arts Society of Nigeria (VASON) will present a special exhibition and art sale at the Freedom Park, Broad Street, Lagos on March 24. It is part of the activities lined up by VASON to raise funds for the proposed VASON Museum/ Art Centre. The exhibition, which opens to the public from 3pm on that day, shall run till March 31, and will feature more than 50 original works of art.

This exhibition serves to present to the public an opportunity to contribute to the growth of the visual arts sector through the purchase of the works by various emerging and established artists. These works have been donated by members and friends of VASON, and this includes artists, collectors, gallery owners and art dealers.

VASON was registered in May 2007, with the setting up of a temporary secretariat provided by the Vice-Chairman Chief Rasheed Gbadamosi. Programming began with a cocktail party to commemorate the 50th birthday of a member of the Board of Trustees, Dr. Munzali Dantata, held at the Museum Kitchen, National Museum, Onikan, Lagos on, June 24, 2007.

A Touch Of Grey hits bookshelves

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SECTION of the literary community recently gathered at the Terra Kulture Art Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos to witness the unveiling of a book: A Touch Of Grey, authored by Jovita Madojemu.

Madojemu, a graduate of accountancy from the University of Benin, said the novel documents the happenings; challenges and pressure on campus, which students go through while also portraying the fact that sometimes things don’t go the way they appear.

“It is an interesting reading, not because I wrote it. In the months to come, I will be embarking on a campaign around Nigeria, Ghana, make some complimentary copies and get people to appreciate the importance of life. A number or awards are coming up and I will be putting up the book for them and as the reviews go on, people get to see and they get to know that in Nigeria, not everything is bad,” she said.

A Touch Of Grey centers on the lives of three young students, Howell, Chimmy and Dorinda who get to school but find out that due to indiscretions of their parents, a similar bloodline courses through their veins. In the centre of the unfolding controversies lay an unknown character out for vengeance.

“The transformation of the major characters of the book sets in motion series of events that keeps the readers spell bound as unlikely relationships unravel in a web of van-

By Ovwe Medeme

ity, pain and deceit. The characters each display an individuality and pose questions in the minds of the readers clearly guiding them to form their own perceptions of life, love and devotion,” says Toju Egbebi, reviewer of the book.

In conceptualising the 235-page book, the author explained that her imagination got the better of her. “That is the way I would put it. It wasn’t borne out of anything I had premeditated. The characters, eventually when I was developing them, some of them could be likened to the people in my life. I just wanted to do something that was different. as I began to write the book, the plot just began to evolve. I didn’t think the plot through before I wrote it.”

At the book launch were lovers and admirers of Nigerian literature including one time child singer, Tosin Jegede, founder of the Tosin Jegede Foundation, a body which dedicates itself to spreading the reading culture in Nigeria, especially among children.

With a desire to be a novelist dating back to her elementary days, Jovita said she always desired to be a published author and A Touch of Grey is the first of her publication. She further revealed that the book is being reviewed by the Commonwealth in the UK and it is her desire to win an award.

•Madojemu

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The Midweek Magazine

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PHOTO OF THE WEEK

All for Ojukwu, the Ikemba Nnewi Ohafia war masqueraders on parade at the funeral of the late Dim Emeka Odumegwu Ojukwu in Lagos

Promasidor launches media excellence awards P ROMASIDOR Nigeria Limited, makers of Cowbell milk, has launched media excellence awards for reporters .

The awards will be known as Promasidor Quill awards.

The Managing Director, Chief Keith Richards, said in Lagos that the awards were created as platforms to recognise and reward reporters who have excelled in reportage of the Promasidor corporate and product brands as well as the Fast Moving Consumer Goods sector (FMCG).

He said the awards which would be held yearly would recognise and celebrate reporters from different beats and categories.

He explained that the objectives of the awards were to encourage and motivate reporters in the areas of brands/ marketing, nutrition (health), corporate social responsibility, education as well as photography.

The awards category includes the Brand Advocate of the Year, In-depth Report (on Nutrition) of the Year, Best CSR Report of the Year, Education In-depth Report of the Year and Photo Story of the Year. A panel of judges comprising seasoned

practitioners will be inaugurated to adjudged winners of the awards.

Richards enjoined reporters to continue the good work they are doing for the economy and to also participate in the awards when they call for entries.

Commenting on the awards, publisher of BusinessDay newspaper, Mr. Frank Aigbogun, described the event as wonderful, noting that Promasidor is a great company with great brands.

He said the awards were “indication of the company’s support for the media.”

Aigbogun also noted that he “appreciates the work Keith and his colleagues are doing given the fact that they are competing with bigger brands in the industry.”

Promasidor is one of the leading multinationals in the FMCG sector of the economy producing quality consumer products. It has achieved tremendous growth since 1993 when it commenced operations, and at present employs about 2,000 people across the country.

Promasidor holds a leading position in the Nigerian powdered milk market with its Cowbell

•From left: Nollywood star actress Mrs Kate Henshaw-Nutall; Richards and Aigbogun, at the event in Lagos last Saturday

Milk brand.

It sells its products in many neighbouring countries, including Benin, Niger, Chad and the Central African Republic.

The company also strives to re-

late with its host communities through its various robust corporate social responsibility(CSR) programmes, the notable one being the Cowbell National Secondary School Mathematics Compe-

tition (NASSMAC). It has just flagged off the 12th edition of the NASSMAC, which is expected to attract about 50,000 students in the first stage examination holding this weekend.

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14, 2012

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Plateau, Nigerian Legion empower widows From Marie-Therese Peter, Jos

•Governor Jang

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IDOWS in Plateau State have been urged not to neglect the education of their children on the basis of widowhood, even as they have been advised to ensure that their children have the basic level of education which would make

them become relevant to themselves and the society.

These pieces of advice were given in Jos by the State Commissioner for Women Affairs, Mrs Olivia Dazyem, a barrister, while her ministry, in collaboration with the state chapter of the Nigeria Legion, presented financial grants and clothing materials to 85 widows of fallen heroes to enable them to start small scale businesses.

Mrs Dazyem stated that the gesture was aimed at changing the economic situation of the widows for the better in line with the human development policy of the state government. This, she said, would prevent them from cheapening themselves in the bid to cater for their families.

She said: “We as a government, has taken a stance to ensure that the widows do not engage in demeaning acts in the bid to cater for their families, hence

the Widowhood Vocational Training Centre in Mangu will receive a boost as it has been captured in this year’s budget.

“Also captured in the budget is the establishment of two other skill acquisition centres in the northern and southern zones to take care of the training needs of women, especially widows.”

However, the state’s Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Dr. Paul Wai also encouraged the women not to lose hope but rather strive with the little help to contribute

to the development of the state.

Meanwhile, Mrs. Jessica Obadiah of the Country Women Association of Nigeria (COWAN) gave the widows some orientation on how to invest the grant given to them.

She advised them not to compromise their businesses with pleasure but stay focused and ensure that the gesture is not a wasted one.

Responding on behalf of others, three widows, Mrs. Rifkatu Musa, Mrs. Agnes Giwa and Hajia Salamatu Ibrahim ex-

We as a government, has taken a stance to ensure that the widows do not engage in demeaning acts in the bid to cater for their families, hence the Widowhood Vocational Training Centre in Mangu will receive a boost as it has been captured in this year’s budget

pressed thanks to the donors for the gesture.

Mrs. Musa said: “I am very happy that the widows in the state have not been totally forgotten. I believe other widows here feel the same. I have been going through lot distress since the death of my husband. Right now, I am frying and selling akara (bean cake). With this grant, my business will receive a boost and my children’s school fees would be paid.”

For Giwa, “the gesture is a realised dream because my business has been down and I have been thinking of ways to revive it.”

She said: “I sell kunu and I used to measure few mudu at a time but now, I will buy more measures and the turnover would be better.”

Hajia Ibrahim expressed gratitude to the donors, saying “our husbands have sacrificed much for this country and we should not be neglected and our children left to suffer.”

Agency pledges manpower development •Continued from Page 27 non-governmental organisations (NGOs).

He further stated that the organisation was determined and committed to support efforts at achieving social transformation in Nigeria through sustained engagement in capacitybuilding interventions by supporting local authorities in the promotion of their viable local development initiatives, strengthen communities and stakeholders involved in promoting effective participatory processes in the country for sustainable development and achievement of the Millennium Development Goals.

Dr Boms stressed that UNITAR Nigeria strategy has been anchored on the management and coordination of engagement activities by instilling consistency, partner participation, quality and avoiding duplication.

He said: “We promote local democracy and good inclusive governance through capacity-building; creation of a replicable experimental conflict resolution model through the Niger Delta experience for oil and gas-bearing regions in post-conflict transition in the African region,” he stated.

Commenting on the benefits of UNITAR Nigeria’s activities, particularly to states in the Niger Delta, he emphasised that “the impact of our operations has resulted in sustainable human capital development which also impacts on the socio-economic well-being of the Niger Delta region.

“Above all, our operations support the Niger Delta Regional Development Master plan and the Federal Government’s initiatives for local participation in the country’s oil and gas sector.”

With the dedication of his team and the continuing support of partners, the UNITAR Nigeria Head/Resident Representative pointed out that the organisation will continue to make impressive contributions to sustainable development in the Niger Delta and Nigeria as a whole.

UNITAR, whose headquarters is based in Geneva, Switzerland, is governed by a Board of Trustees and is headed by an Executive Director. The Institute is supported by voluntary contributions from governments, inter-governmental organisations, foundations, and other non-governmental sources.

•Girls Guide executives in CRS with children of the DCC

I

N their bid to give the lessprivileged in society a sense of belonging, executive members of the Nigerian Girls’ Guide Association Cross River State, paid a visit to Destiny’s Child Centre (DCC).

The DCC is a home set up by the wife of the governor of Cross River State, Mrs Obioma Liyel Imoke, to cater for homeless children.

Present during the visit were the State Commissioner of the Girls Guide, Mrs. Grace Otu Edem, the Deputy Chief Commissioner and the Chairman of Eastern Zone Dr Mrs. Maria G. Nya, Mrs. Grace Ekanem, the State Secretary, Miss Lizzy Obiong, the State Adviser, Mrs. Usang Uduak, Evangelist Arit, Ranger Catherine Nzekwe and others.

Mrs. Grace Otu Edem intimated that they came to DCC to support Mrs. Obioma Liyel-Imoke in her effort in bringing hope to the less privilege in the society.

She said that in 2009, the Girls

Girls Guide visits centre From Nicholas Kalu, Calabar

Guide carried out a disability support programme in the State during which they gave out wheel chairs to the disabled. She also said that the Girl Guide in its effort to help achieve the goal four of the MDG – Reducing Child Morality, has carried out

sensitization programmes in schools in Cross River State on rape, teenage pregnancy and sex.

She thanked Mrs. Obioma Liyel-Imoke for her work and wished her success in her endeavours.

Responding, the A State Fit for A Child (asFac) Director, Bar. Patricia Endeley thanked the

The centre houses 102 children, out of which 16 are engaged in various skill acquisition training programmes, 75 are in mainstream schools and 11 are being home-schooled in the centre

Executive members of the Girls guide for their visit.

She said asFac project is also the brain child of Mrs. Obioma Liyel-Imoke.

She further explained that the centre offers a holistic rehabilitation program for erstwhile street children in Cross River State comprising of physical, spiritual, medical, educational support amongst others.

According to her, the centre houses 102 children, out of which 16 are engaged in various skill acquisition training programmes, 75 are in mainstream schools and 11 are being homeschooled in the centre.

Highlights of the event included a welcome rendition presented by some of the housemates, a lecture on abstinence from sex presented by Ranger Catherine Nzekwe, facility tour of the centre, presentation of gift items which includes exercise books, toiletries, biscuits and group photograph with the children.

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14, 2012

39

Senator provides free eye test for constituents •Continued from Page 25 tor Ashafa promised to look into the issue immediately.

“The Senator does not want any member of his constituency to suffer preventable blindness because of lack of medical attention. This is why he contracted qualified optometrists to move into different local governments within his constituency to proffer solution to this growing sight problem,” Salu said, adding that “those that need medical attention will be given adequate care and we hope this will yield a positive result because of the large turnout we see across the local government areas.”

In a chat with Newsextra at Oworonshoki, where Kosofe residents were tested, the Public Relations Officer of Senator Ashafa constituency office, Mr. Babatunde Adegunju, said the programme was not the first time it was being organised “as Senator Ashafa has been organising medical programme for his constituents before he was elected into the Senate.”

He further said that “apart from the free eye screening, there is a monthly medical programme which Senator Ashafa instituted for residents of Lagos East Senatorial District who are suffering from different ailments. But this particular one was organised to celebrate the

birthday of our national leader, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, who clocks 60 in the next few days.”

Describing the programme as a manifestation of good governance, the chairman of Ikosi-Isheri Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Mr. Abdulfatai Oyesanya, said that the people that benefitted from the scheme were not only politicians, but also ordinary residents who particularly needed the eye test service.

On why the programme was conducted to honour Tinubu, Oyesanya said: “Asiwaju Tinubu is our leader and people can see the happenings in all states being controlled by our party. We are witnessing good governance and we, in Lagos East, believe that the 60th birthday of Asiwaju cannot pass without organising this kind of popular programme for the people.”

He said the LCDA would still organise full medical service to treat all kinds of ailment to show that “ACN is controlling the government in Lagos State, which is the base of our national leader.”

A beneficiary in Oworonshoki, Elder Samuel Omowo, who said he could not see an object when it’s very close, commended Senator Ashafa for the programme, saying: “Instead of going to the hospital to spend money, I decided to come to attend this free eye test because it

Apart from the free eye screening, there is a monthly medical programme which Senator Ashafa instituted for residents of Lagos East Senatorial District who are suffering from different ailments

T

HE Katsina State Government has earmarked the sum of N518m as part of its contributions towards ensuring timely take off of the Federal University Dutsinma. The Deputy Governor Mr. Abdullahi Garba Faskari disclosed this during an inspection tour of the ongoing construction projects at the university’s temporary site in Dutsinma Katsina State recently.

Mr. Faskari, who was led on the inspection by the Commissioner for Works and Transport, Mr. Mustapha Maikudi, expressed government’s determination to encourage educational advancement.

He said the inspection was sequel

•Some of the beneficiaries

will enable me to save some money. I commend our Senator, Olugbenga Ashafa for this exercise which shows that he has not forgotten us in Abuja.”

Another resident, Samuel Oladipupo said if only other elected people in the area could do the same thing for the people, those in need of the service would have opportunity to prevent total blindness.

“During the electioneering campaigns, Ashafa promised that he would not neglect us here and I believe him now because of this free eye test.”

Mrs Christiana Feyikemi, another beneficiary, said: “If this programme is sustained, the masses will be passionate about any government programmes because

many of the residents here benefitted from the free eye test.”

On the problem with her eyes, an eight-year-old Eniola Akeredolu, whose eye problem started a month ago, said: “Water always come out of my eyes whenever I scratch them. This is why my daddy brought me here to know what is wrong with me eyes. I want to thank Ashafa because of this (programme) and I pray he will one day become governor of Lagos State.”

The optometrists said not all the people that were tested suffered vision impairment, adding that glasses would be made available for those who have problems with their sight and whose eye problem required lenses to be corrected.

•Ashafa

Katsina votes N518m for varsity From Isa Idris, Katsina

to the governor’s directive as evidence of the state government’s willingness to fulfill its promise to provide support for the timely take off of academic activities in the institution.

Mr Faskari, however, called on the contractors and the supervising engineers to expedite action on the project to ensure that work on the university site was completed on time, even as he disclosed that

the state is eager to see the commencement of academic activities in the university.

Earlier, the commissioner had explained that work on some structures have been completed while contractors are working hard to ensure timely completion of others.

The deputy governor also visited Na Alhaji Primary School part of whose classes are being converted to hostels for male students while some of the structures at Isa Kaita College of Education are being con-

verted to hostels for female students.

The university’s registrar Mohammed Yusuf Abubakar who, on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor of the institution, Prof. James Ayetse, conducted the visitors round the institution said academic activities are expected to take off in the next

few months when both staff recruitment and admission processes are completed.

The ongoing expansion in the Federal University Dutsinma are rehabilitation and construction of additional classrooms blocks, staff residential quarters, laboratories, hostels, road network, among others.

The state is eager to see the commencement of academic activities in the university…Work on some structures have been completed while contractors are working hard to ensure timely completion of others

UNESCO reviews slave route FTER Cuba, Angola, Toin Calabar ronto and Columbia, Ni-

A

•From left: Head of Administration, Lagos Security Trust Fund, Mr Lewis Adegbola; Chairman, Ejigbo Local Council Development Area, Kehinde Bamigbetan and his vice, Alhaji Monsurudeen Bello-Obe, at the formal launch of Ejigbo Road Trust Fund at the council secretariat

geria are to host the meeting of the International Scientific Committee (ISC) of the UNESCO’s Slave Route Project between March 13 and 14. Activities will be reported to the Director-General and the General Assembly of United Nations Educational, Social and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) as well as resolutions to be put before the African Union.

The meeting, which will be hosted by the Ministry of Culture and coordinated by Prof. Tunde Babawale, the Director of the Centre for Black and African Arts and Civilisation (CBAAC), will also highlight the leading role of Nigeria in world issues, the global stature of CBAAC as a first-rate

national cultural institute to attract the ISC to Nigeria.

A statement by Toyin Falola, Vice-President, ISC, UNESCO Slave Route Project said: “The meeting will review global issues on old and contemporary forms of slavery, study the Calabar slave sites, review partnership with various African countries and discuss updates on the permanent memorial on the slave trade and slavery to be built in the United Nations (UN) compound in New York, as well as follow up to the Head of States’ summit in Salvador de Bahia, and the declaration of the summit and the proclamation of an International Decade for People of African Descent.”

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WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14, 2012

Government at all levels have done their best but police need more attention from the governments so as to make its officers and men be more effective in their constitutional responsibility, noting that men of the Nigeria police are the best in the world

T

HE Zone 8 of the Police is to partner with the Ondo State chapter of the Vigilance Group of Nigeria (VGN) on community security so as to put crime rate under control.

The Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG) in charge of the Zone, Mr. Uzor Amakulor disclosed this during a two-day seminar and retreat on security awareness and strategy programme for 2,000 members of the Ondo State Command of the vigilance group recently.

The programme was organised by the zone 8 of Nigeria Police Force (NPF) in conjunction with an Abujabased private security firm, Absolute Security and Consultancy Services and held at the Trade Fair Complex, Akure the state capital. He called for more co-operation of the vigilance members in the state.

He pledged that the police was ready to partner with the Para-security organisation to nib the criminal activities in the bud in their areas within the ambit of the law.

Mr Amakulor, who came to the retreat programme along with top police personnel, urged the vigilance members to join hands with the police in their various communities in fighting crime, saying that they should not close their two eyes on the issue of security in their areas.

The police chief also urged them to be more vigilant, even as he urged them to cultivate the habit of good conduct which would make them do the right thing at the right time. He warned them not to witch-hunt anyone or do anything that may jeopardise the future of their fellow human being. He also advised them to work within the law and laid down rules and regulations guiding their activities.

He praised the state chapter of the vigilance group for their effort to assist the police in securing their local environment, noting that it would encourage the people to contribute their quota to the development of their communities.

Amakulor also commended the initiative of the security consultancy outfit in filling the wide gap between the police and communities in tackling the present security challenges which the country is experiencing.

Also speaking, the chairman Absolute Security and Consultancy Service Chief Felix Ogbaudu called for the training and re-training of men of the Nigeria police and vigilance members so that the country could be properly secured, adding that lack of funding, gross inadequate logis-

•Ondo State Commander of the Vigilance Group of Nigeria(VGN), Alhaji Tajudeen Akewusola, addressing members at the retreat

Police, vigilance group partner on security From Damisi Ojo, Akure

tics, poor welfare package, poor quality of personnel and distrust are among the problems the security agents particularly the police are experiencing.

He explained that government at all levels have done their best but police need more attention from the governments so as to make its officers and men be more effective in their constitutional responsibility, noting that men of the Nigeria police are the best in the world.

Chief Ogbaudu, who was a retired Assistant Inspector-General of Police, observed that security could not be gotten on a platter of gold and no amount spent on the security of a country is wasted.

He said: “I want to tell you that in the absence of security, no human endeavour can take place. So, the security of the community or nation should be given priority attention and all hands must be on deck to secure the land. That is why the training and re-training of the security

The security expert advised the vigilance members to develop the power of observation, calling on them to be ready to provide information to the police at all times in order to help the security agent to trail and track down criminals in their domains personnel should be taken seriously.

“As we all know, the Bible said ‘my people perish for lack of knowledge,’ and nobody again asks from people where they get their wealth which poses serious threat and danger for the peaceful co-existence of the country.”

The former police chief also noted

that the issue of securing the country is the joint and collective responsibility of every individual in a community.

Ogbaudu recalled that most of the problems which lead to the insecurity challenges facing the nation ranged from the culture of impunity, arrogance, corruption, insincerity, culture of end justifying the means, gross indiscipline, politics of do or die, misplaced priority, inequality before the law to sit tight syndrome.

The security expert advised the vigilance members to develop the power of observation, calling on them to be ready to provide information to the police at all times in order to help the security agent to trail and track down criminals in their domains.

He commended the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) on its policy of cashless economy which he believed would reduce the risk and danger in business transactions in Nigeria and lessen the job of the security agents in that regard.

Addressing his members during the retreat, the Ondo State Commander of the Vigilance Group of Nigeria, Alhaji Tajudeen Akewusola

who preached peace among the members, said that lingering crisis rocking the security group has become a thing of the past.

Alhaji Akewusola urged them to abide by the rules and regulations guiding the conduct of its members as stipulated by their constitutio in their localities, praying that every member would reap the fruit of their labour on sustenance of the security organisation.

His words:”I believe that you have gained a lot of experience in the security awareness retreat programme and also exposed to the nitty-gritty of the security works. I just want to tell you that you need to avoid any form of criminality in the conduct of your duties and be mindful of what you are doing. I know the sky is the limit for all members.”

One of the participants in the retreat, Comrade Rauph Olalekan Ejalonibu commended the effort of the organisers of the programme which he sees as a way of broadening their knowledge on security of their various communities.

He then called on the government to approve and register them as one of the Para-military security agencies in the country.

‘Why rape cases are up’

A

•Solar Powered Container introduced into Nigerian market by Space Nigeria during a press briefing at UTC Foods, Victoria Island, Lagos

RIGHTS advocacy group, Women Advocates Research and Documentation Centre (WARDC) says rape cases are on the increase in Nigeria because of weak implementation of existing laws relating to rape.

The Executive Director, WARDC, Ms Abiola AkiyodeAfolabi, stated this during the launch of “Campaign against Rape” by the group in Lagos.

The campaign was part of activities to mark the 2012 International Women’s Day. She said that cultural practices, police impunity, institutional failure and absence of a strong legal framework, were other contributing factors to the increase in cases of rape.

Akiyode-Afolabi said: “Rape in Nigeria is a criminal offence that

attracts life imprisonment in the Nigerian Criminal Code.

“However, reports have shown that very few people have been convicted. Court processes are not gender friendly and often leave the victims shattered and frustrated.

“The failure of the state to properly address rape has to a large extent encouraged impunity”.

According to her, Nigeria, being a signatory to International Treaties supporting women’s rights and condemning violence against women, had an obligation to combat the tide of rape and other sexual violence.

She said that the objective of the campaign tagged “Let’s Talk About Rape’’ was to demystify people’s perception about rape and combat the impunity that went with the menace.

Wednesday, March 14, 2011

Napoli not ‘mission impossible’, insists •Drogba

Drogba •Lavezzi

Lavezzi:

Real banks on red-hot

Chelsea game is a ‘date with history'

•Ronaldo

to sink CSKA

Vasin: CSKA Moscow will fight against Real Madrid

•Vasin

TODAY’S FIXTURES Chelsea vs Napoli Real Madrid vs CSKA Moscow

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14, 2012

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THE NATION WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14, 2012

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14, 2012

45

POLITICS THE NATION

E-mail:- politics@thenationonlineng.net

Path to credible elections in 2015 Why is the Nigerian democracy always described as ‘nascent’? Former Lagos Governor Bola Tinubu lays out the task before politicians and election managers if 2015 elections are to meet desired standards.

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IVEN Papa Adeyinka Adebayo’s present and past contribution to the development of our dear country, it is a fitting tribute that a book on electoral reforms, which amplifies suggestions on how to deepen our democracy and secure the future greatness of our country, is being presented in his honour. On electoral reforms, I will return presently. But first, I must celebrate this eminent son of the Yoruba and proud Nigerian patriot.

If you want to know why we honour Gen. Adebayo today, then you must flash your mind back to 1966, when our country was in great confusion. He had just become military governor of old Western Region after the counter-coup of July 1966. The country was drifting to war, and our people needed to speak with one voice to try and stop the disaster to come. So, Papa used his clout as military governor to get Chief Obafemi Awolowo released from jail by the Gowon government. Not only that, he called a regional conference in Ibadan, at which Chief Awolowo was made the Yoruba leader. From then on, the Yoruba spoke with one voice and though war was not prevented, we all did our bit to preserve the unity of our country.

At his youth therefore and at the height of his military glory, Gen. Adebayo located the moral authority and leadership quality in Chief Awolowo, the avatar of development politics in Nigeria. He did everything in his power to yield Yoruba leadership to him. Our country was better for it. As our Papa accorded honour to whom it was due back then, we the present younger generation are bound to give honour to him today. Indeed, he has earned it and the stellar company gathered here to celebrate him at 84 is fulsome evidence.

Papa, your earlier days were brilliant and remarkable. I am pleased to announce that your winter years are no less remarkable. May it continue to be so; and may we drink from your well of wisdom for many years yet.

Today is not unlike 1966, except that instead of the country sliding to “war-war”, our unsettled national question is making the country to slide to “jaw-jaw”. But just as it was in 1966 when Papa was young and vigorous, it has been in 2012, when Papa is ageing gracefully with no less mental vigour. Papa, thank you for providing leadership in our collective effort to sell the developmental idea of restructured federalism based on regional collaboration and cooperation that will give our country a jab in the arm. With elders like you in our midst, we are sure to get it right. May the good Lord lengthen your days.

Now, to the second cause of celebration which is the advocacy for electoral reforms in order to deepen democracy and ensure development from good governance. That is the focus of this book, being presented in General Adebayo’s honour.

Nigeria needs urgent electoral reforms. The flawed elections of 2007 and even the most recent one of 2011 have exposed clearly the problems with our electoral system and its operators. In 2007, the incoming PDP government knew that its lack of legitimacy would impair its already suspect capacity to govern.

To salvage its image, government inaugurated the Electoral Reform Committee. Chaired by former Chief Justice of Nigeria, Muhammadu Lawal Uwais, the committee produced a comprehensive report detailing the faults in the electoral process and enumerating 83 procedural and substantive recommendations. Key recommendations dealt with ensuring the independence of the electoral commission and

•From left: Former Lagos State Governor Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, Mrs Modupe Adebayo and General Adeyinka Adebayo (rtd) at the 84th birthday lecture and book launch to honour General Adeyinka Adebayo held at Protea Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos last week.

PHOTO: NIYI ADENIRAN

of creating an electoral process less vulnerable to manipulation. If implemented, the report would have radically altered the political landscape and moved Nigeria closer to genuine democracy. In effect, the PDP did not bargain on the Uwais Committee taking its mission seriously. In constituting the Committee, the government got far more than it wanted.

Seeing the Uwais report as a threat, the PDP tried to hide it from the light of day and public vetting. The government was not eager to share the report because they did not want it to become the center of public discourse. However, civil society and opposition parties kept prodding. The 2011 elections would have been a repeat of 2007 if we did not insist on fundamental changes in the electoral law and the personnel in charge. As with most attempts to reform a stubborn, regressive system, our efforts succeeded in part and failed in part.

The Electoral Commission Chairman who engineered the sordid 2007 election was replaced by a respected figure in whom civil society had confidence. We also succeeded in calling for a new voter’s registration to replace the list the former Commission head had concocted.

Government refused to alter the selection process giving a president unilateral power to appoint the Chairman. This meant the Commission remained susceptible to political influence. It must be stressed, however, that the change in the leadership of INEC is insufficient for the total transformation of the electoral process in Nigeria.

There are major problems facing INEC today. Some of these problems may invariably destroy the foundation of our hard won democracy and rob INEC of the much needed credibility which they have been trying to acquire. The uncheck rigging of elections with the active collusion of INEC officials, the nonindependence of INEC, the manipulation of INEC by the ruling party and indeed, the nonexistence of a credible voters registers register.

At issue here what needs to happen to make it possible for INEC to perform the critical role of conducting free and fair elections, providing a level playing ground for all parties and regulating and monitoring of parties such that it is empowered to actually and genuinely perform its mandate of conducting free, transparent and fair elections. It is a fact today that the INEC we have is still infested with old and corrupt officers, the remnants of the Maurice Iwu era who remain adept at electoral manipulation. INEC is still loaded with internal sabotouers who still perpetrate acts that violate the electoral act. Can a leopard ever change its skin? No. The law is only as good as its interpreter and enforcer.

How can INEC be the acceptable primary

vehicle to oversee political parties when all political parties except the PDP view INEC with suspicion and as biased. Infact most Nigerians see INEC as an annex or extension of the ruling party at whose behest it often acts. The ruling party, PDP is now more brazen in seeking total control of INEC. Openly partisan persons and card carrying members of PDP are being appointed as Resident Electoral Commissioners.

During the 2011 elections and subsequent elections we saw an electoral system designed for easy manipulation by the ruling party, electoral laws that were undemocratic and susceptible to abuse and manipulations, a hostile security environment, and a system in which so much state money had been pumped into the system to fight the opposition.

The INEC of today is still bedraggled with logistical gaps that make it reliant on other arms of government for assistance. This allows for those arms to exercise undue influence on the ground and this influence is wholly beneficial to the ruling party. The urgent need for electoral reforms becomes more telling in view of desperate moves by PDP using its majority in the parliament to amend the electoral act in such a way that it drastically affects the rights of Nigerians to fair hearing. The consequence of denying Nigerians justice is pouring into the streets and resorting to violence to settle election disputes.

The way forward on reforms First, let me state for the records that we are determined to see that electoral reforms takes place. We want to ensure transparency and accountability in the electoral process. We desire to succeed in our campaign of one manone vote across Nigeria. Coalition of Democrats for Electoral reforms, CODER, an NGO has been in the forefront of advocating for electoral reforms and vigilance at the polls.

No genuine reform can start without the adoption of the Justice Uwais report. It is the only blueprint around to bring sanity into our electoral system. Starting out, it is a necessity that the appointment and composition of INEC should henceforth be truly independent to reflect the recommendations of the Justice Uwais Electoral Panel report. A situation whereby openly partisan politicians are being appointed as Resident Electoral Commissioners is unjust and unacceptable.

Unless INEC strives to perform as an impartial umpire and this must be transparent for all to see and respects the provisions of the electoral act to the later. Now we opposition parties must say no more leaning to one side

by INEC. Nigeria is ripe for electronic ballot if the operators are sincere about making ev-

ery vote count and putting a stop to massive rigging. There is evidence to show the method of rigging widely employed by the PDP in different states was multiple thumb printing of ballot papers, often with the connivance of the police. These thumb-printed papers are stuffed into ballot boxes at different polling units. This method had succeeded largely in previous elections, with the perpetrators confidently believing that they would not be detected. The sanctity of the vote cast is a top agenda item not to the compromised. Our party, the Action Congress of Nigeria, ACN, has demonstrated its determination to fight the extensive rigging perpetrated by the PDP. We have gone through the rigours of the courts and tribunals and also bringing forensic experts to claim back victory and win back stolen mandates.

Under the watch of some courageous jurists, those that stole the people’s mandate were compelled to return it. Unfortunately, the PDP led government, irked by the temerity of some courageous jurists, lashed out and embarked on systematic witch-hunting of judges. From Benue to other States, we saw justice go to the highest bidder and those that had Aso Rock connections.

Consequently, our judiciary is under siege and by the same token our democracy is imperiled because of a corrupt judicial system.

Upright jurists are getting a raw deal from the ruling government. For instance, without shame or conscience, the government wrongfully plotted to disrupt the career of one of our illustrious jurists, Court of Appeal President, Justice Isa Salami. What was his crime? Because he refused to put his sense of justice on sale, they are relentlessly trying to tarnish his image and are bent on ending his career. They rumored that he was in the pockets of the ACN. This was a terrible lie against a good man. Our party has no hold on him. His verdicts were not for the ACN. They were for justice. Justice Salami actively participated in several other election cases where PDP won. They had no complaints.

However, those in power could not tolerate his impartiality. They sacrificed this fine jurist in order to send a clear and blunt message to other jurists: Go against our wishes and you shall lose those robes that you hold so dear. If such a thing can fall upon so senior a jurist, what hope for the others and the common man? The answer is none, unless the public cries out against the PDP turning the rule of law from an inalienable right into a tradable item that it owns and controls. Given the Salami example, no other jurists dare cross the line.

Our courts have become islands of confusion as judges are now forced to balance their conscience against their careers.

Panel, after panel cleared Justice Salami of •Continued on page 46

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14, 2012

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POLITICS

Anambra South gladiators on the march again On Saturday, the electorate in Anambra South will be called out again by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to decide who should represent them at the Senate. On offer is Chuma Nzeribe of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), while Nicholas Ukachukwu and Andy Uba are still bickering over the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) ticket. Correspondent NWANOSIKE ONU presents the issues in the rerun election ordered by the election petition tribunal.

O

NE year after the 2011 Na tional Assembly elections were conducted in Anambra State, peace is yet to return to the political parties as senatorial candidates are still on the war path.

After declaration of results by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), those announce as winners headed to their new posts, while the aggrieved sought redress at the election petition tribunals in Awka.

While the controversy that trailed the Anambra Central senatorial contest has been put to rest, following the verdict by the Justice Onajite Kuejubola-led tribunal that the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) candidate, Dr Chris Ngige, won the election, others are still battling.

But, the Anambra South Senatorial election has taken a new dimension after the declaration of the Appeal Court sitting in Enugu ordered fresh election between Senator Andy Uba of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Hon Chuma Nzeribe of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA).

After the election last year, INEC announced PDP winner with 63,315 votes as against APGA’s 43,789.

Others who contested the election but did not make any head way were the then incumbent senator, Ikechukwu Obiora, who contested on the platform of Accord as a result of his inability to secure the PDP ticket.

Also in the race were Sir Chris Atuegwu of ACN and Prof Nonso Mojekwu of the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC). Prince Nicholas Ukachukwu equally claimed to be the authentic candidate of the PDP. The presentation of two candidates during the election raised eyebrows, as other parties

• Uba

protested to INEC that it was wrong, but because of the personalities in the race for PDP, the electoral empire kept mum.

The commission had, before the election, accepted the candidacy of Uba, but Ukachukwu made a strong claim based on the fact that the committee set up by the National Executive Council (INEC) of the party headed by Senator Joseph Waku declared him the candidate of the party after primaries.

Even now, nothing has changed as both Ukachukwu and Uba have painted all the walls, electric poles, trees and every available space in the district with their posters for the re-run election as announced by INEC. The re-run election, according to the Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the commission, Frank Egbo, will

• Ukachukwu

hold on March 17.

Egbo told The Nation that the rerun will hold in the seven local government areas in the South Senatorial Zone, in compliance with the ruling of the Appeal Court on December 22, 2011.

The affected Council areas are Aguata, Orumba North, Orumba South, Nnewi North, Nnewi South, Ihiala and Ekwusigo.

The Commission has appealed to the public and political parties involved to conduct themselves in good manner, to ensure success of the exercise.

Nzeribe was seeking a declaration that he won the Anambra South senatorial election, claiming that the fielding of two different candidates in Uba and Ukachukwu by the PDP was an aberration.

He said “I’m not praying for can-

Anointed candidates take over Kano local govts

M

IXED reactions have continued to trail the Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP)’s congress in Kano State aggrieved party members who spoke with The Nation decried the imposition of anointed candidates from the powers that be.

A former Senator, who does not want his name mentioned, maintained that, “at the first instance, there was no election during the congresses. There was only anointing by those who hold the knives and the yam in the leadership. People were not allowed to vote candidates of their choice; rather, party men and women were forced to submit to the whims and caprices of the powers-that-be.”

The party chieftain, said “if we continue like this, we can never achieve internal democracy. I believe we should have a re-think the way we handle affairs concerning our great party. I am not aggrieved per-se because I have no interest, but I think there is need to carry everybody along for the interest of the party in the state,” he concluded.

However, speaking on behalf of the PDP members of National Assembly from the state, Hon. Aminu Suleiman Goro, who represents Fagge Federal Constituency, described the two congresses as, “excellent and most acceptable.”

According to the state Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the

cellation because I won the election clearly, but I ‘m calling for recounting of the votes in Nnewi and the entire senatorial zone.

The APGA candidate further claimed that in Aguata local government area, Uba’s home, election did not hold in so many booths, yet, votes were allotted to the PDP. “Honestly, we thought the election would be free and fair without knowing that some people were planning a different thing against APGA”, he said.

Following the recognition of Ukachukwu by the Waku committee detailed by the PDP to conduct primaries in the state in January 2011, and Uba’s recognition by the Chief Ben Udeozor executive in the state, both entered the race with unwavering faith in their candidacies.

Path to credible elections in 2015 •Continued from page 45

From Kolade Adeyemi, Kano

party, Alhaji Saleh Jili, the State Executive Council did not at any time coerce the ward and local government organs of the party into “unholy” consensus.

He noted that few weeks before the Congresses, the state Executive Council sponsored advertorials in local media urging those interested to obtain forms for the congresses.

“A point”, Jili said, “taken into cognizance the security situation in the state and bearing in mind the fact that allowing normal congresses may encourage undesirable people to cause chaos the state executive committee serving as an advisory body urged all the 30-member caucuses in the Wards to go back, sit down with all the candidates and see how they can reach a consensus.”

He reiterated that consensus was not imposition from the state Exco, “but an advice which may or may not be taken,” adding that, “even at that, the state Exco also dispatched three electoral officers to each ward and Local Government Area during the exercise.”

According to him, so far, the Kano state PDP secretariat has not received any complaint from any quarters since the exercises were conducted, “and this is an indication that everybody is at home with the outcome. But you

• Nzeribe

• Kwankwaso

are aware that in all political process, a group of people are bound to complain here and there.

“All the same, I am telling you that in Kano PDP, we are one family and we speak with one voice. Everyone is being carried along; and with time, anyone who has any grudge or anything to say must surely be given opportunity to express himself.”

Despite the rancor and deep division that attended the election of Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso as candidate of the party for last year’s governorship election, the ease with which he secured victory for his men have shown that he is now fully in charge.

The confusion that ensued went deeper when the national body of PDP equally presented Ukachukwu with its flag at the Ekwulobia Township stadium in Aguata February last year.

Ukachukwu claims that he remains the candidate. Besides, he obtained an order of court showing that he is the PDP candidate.

On showing then order to the returning officer during the election, Prof Kelechi Okoye, his agents were allowed to participate in the collation of votes.

The candidates face a new hurdle on March 17. The three candidatesUkachukwu and Uba of the PDP, and Nzeribe of APGA are back on the soap box, campaigning vigorously.

National chairman of APGA, Chief Victor Umeh, has vowed to stop PDP from contesting the election as the presentation of two candidates against his party is unlawful and unacceptable.

He said PDP should produce one candidate in Ukachukwu or Uba to face APGA and not both, adding that if such a thing happens again, his candidate, Chuma Nzeribe, should be declared the winner.

The battle line is drawn again, what has been the concern of people in the state is how can two candidates from the same party contest for the same seat?. Would it be fair to APGA’s Nzeribe and the other contestants?

Where each party is allowed one agent, PDP would be represented by two. Two parties would be campaigning for support, while other parties are allowed to present only one each.

In the event that PDP wins, who will INEC declare the winner? Will the election be stopped again? Confusion continues to hover over the Anambra South political horizon.

any wrong doing. 29-eminent jurists also cleared him and went further to recommend his re-instatement.

Rather than re-instating Salami, the NJC and the government of the day have chosen, in a show of raw and naked power to dance around the recommendation. The CJN does not need any more proof to act. He has in his hands a worthy and powerful document to support the restoration of Salami to his position.

Baba Adeyinka Adebayo, you are our father and the father of the nation, you must join your voice in support of the verdict declared by the 29- legal gurus who are the fathers of the Nigerian judiciary to reinstate Justice Salami. Baba, if you have the opportunity to make just one important call-this is one that you want to make to tell President Jonathan and the CJN that it is time to re-instate Justice Salami in the spirit of justice and the rule of law.

This way, our judiciary will be salvaged and the perception of the public about the judiciary being under the thumb of the ruling party to deny Nigerians justice will begin to change. I equally call upon men and women of integrity not to sit idly by and watch justice dispensed based on political patronage and trust in the judiciary abused.

Conclusion Thus, the ACN alongside other parties will not relent in our struggle for electoral reforms. The Uwais report contains a fine blueprint. The beauty of democracy lies in the power it confers on the citi-

zenry to elect the leader they want or reject those who have failed them. The solemn procession to the ballot box is and one of democracy’s fundamental pillars.

However, after these elections, we may have been too quick to hand Attahiru Jega a trophy of integrity. We fear INEC is now moving in the direction opposite to democracy. The pretense is there but the substance of democracy is steadily eroding.

The time is now to reform INEC in time for the 2015 general elections. We expect the INEC chairman to remain true to his commitment to re-organize heads of departments. Serious complaints against senior officials have been ignored.

It is almost 12 months after the April elections and about time the fundamental issue of the re-organization of INEC’s dysfunctional system rises to the top of its internal agenda.

The integrity of our ballot papers is also fundamental. The reason for the avalanche of complaints over sensitive election materials might not be unconnected with lack of due process in procurement of election materials. We want an independent INEC as the name connotes and we want a trust worthy umpire.

The sanctity of the ballot box can only be guaranteed under an independent INEC, an independent and fearless judiciary and an electorate vigilant enough to ensure that every vote counts.

General Adeyinka Adebayo, we hope in your time, you will not see Nigeria again disintegrate, but rather, you will witness the re-bound of a great nation and a country where every vote counts. Thank you listening.

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14, 2012

47

THE NATION

INVESTORS Market: How govt can woo multinationals, A by expert

FINANCIAL expert has suggested ways of attracting quotable domestic and multinational companies to the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) to create a market representative of the economy.

Managing Director, Cowry Asset Management Limited, Mr Johnson Chukwu, said the government and capital market regulators should work out incentives to woo such companies.

The incentives, he said, would make the multinationals and other companies to list their shares on the Exchange.

The key sectors of the economy including upstream oil and gas and telecoms sectors are not represented on the Exchange; the participation of other sectors such as agriculture is shallow relative to their contributions to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP). The absence of these large-impact sectors and companies has impinged on the status of the stock market as a barometer of the economy.

Against the clamours for a law compelling multinationals to list their shares, Chukwu said incentives rather than coercion would serve the interests of the market and the economy.

According to him, the government should work out amenable incentives in the areas of lower corporate tax rate or differential rate of withholding tax on dividend for quoted companies while capital market regulators should make listing and post-listing requirements less onerous.

“If the government introduces a lower tax rate on dividend paid by quoted companies for instance, the shareholders of the multinational companies will be the ones to compel their management to get their companies listed.

I believe that we should do everything to ensure that our capi-

Stories by Taofik Salako

tal market remains a free market where there is freedom of entry and exit, where companies are attracted to list and not necessarily forced to list, where benefits of listing far out-weigh the costs,” Chukwu noted.

He said supportive measures aimed at assisting the capital market recovery should not undermine the principles of private enterprise.

According to him, it is necessary

that any rescue package aimed at assisting the market is structured in a form that will not pose moral hazard for the system as any rescue package that involves intervention by the government or its agency in the purchase of shares to prop up their prices will lead to artificial market recovery and ultimately create more instability in the market.

He said the proposed debt forgiveness may be the most appropriate tool to relieve capital market operators of their current debt

overhang and improve liquidity.

Chukwu said the near-conclusive resolution of the crises in the banking industry, which accounts for more than 50 per cent of market activities has improved the fundamentals of the capital market.

He, however, estimated that the market might only record modest growth this year because of high yields in the fixed-income market and global economic crises, which have reduced appetites for equities.

His company, he said, was in the process of launching some collective investment instruments to woo retail investors back into the capital market.

“We believe that mutual fund is the most appropriate channel for retail investors to come back to the market as it presents them the vehicle to diversify their portfolio and moderate their risks. It also avails them the technical competence of the Fund Managers for determining good investment opportunities, which they as retail investors may lack or cannot afford. We believe that once we launch the mutual funds and prove to retail investors that we can outperform the markets; more investors will come back to the market through these collective investment instruments,” Chukwu said.

•From left: Group Managing Director/CEO, UBA Plc, Mr Phillips Oduoza; Ebonyi State Governor, Chief Martin Elechi; and Executive Director, South Bank, UBA Plc, Mr Rasheed Olaoluwa, during a meeting in Abakaliki.

Foreign investors mull acquisition of indigenous firms

M

ANY international companies are contemplating acquiring some firms to facilitate their entry into the Nigerian market.

Sources told The Nation that there have been enquiries from many foreign companies about possible acquisitions especially in the health care, banking and insurance sectors.

Market analysts said the acquisition bids may not be unconnected with the huge potential of the economy, which in spite of global economic contraction, has sustained a positive growth outlook.

Almost all forecasts are said to have envisaged a strong yearly growth for the economy ranging

from a conservative six per cent to an ambitious double-digit forecasts.

With a population of an 150 million Nigeria’s growing population and huge gap between needs and actual provisions in several sectors present opportunities for multinationals with extensive capacity for research and capital for investment.

The investors are said to be eyeing the ongoing reforms in the financial services industry to gain a foothold in the economy by a acquiring existing assets being disposed by restructuring banks and liquidity-strapped operators.

Old Mutual, a global investment company, is said to be interested in buying the insurance business

of the erstwhile Oceanic Bank International which was recently acquired by Ecobank Transnational Incorporated (ETI).

A source said many capital market operators might be forced to consider acquisitions and joint investments as the lingering recession at the capital market and huge debt overhang stifle continuing operations.

The source added that discussions are now between some multinational pharmaceutical companies and Nigerian targets, although details of the deals are lazy.

While many indigeneous health care companies are interested in franchise arrangement that makes the franchisee the sole local source of globally renowned drugs and

health care products, the foreign investors want to acquire significant equity stakes that will enable them to control the business.

The health care industry consists of a handful of major companies and several small and medium companies. Quoted health care companies pool market capitalisation of about N38 billion, with GlaxoSmithKline Consumer Nigeria (GSK), a subsidiary of global health care company, GlaxoSmithKline, accounting for 68 per cent of sectoral capitalisation.

Sources said the foreign investors are talking to both quoted and private health care companies, although they are more disposed to acquiring quoted

companies.

The renewed interests of foreign investors in large-stake participation in the health care industry mark a turnaround from the divestments of many of them from the sector.

The industry has witnessed many landmark changes in recent years including a law that mandates compulsory health scheme for employees and a stepup in the anti-counterfeit and substandard campaign.

There have also seen massive investments by health care companies, with GSK and May and Baker Nigeria investing about N15 billion in additional capacity and new world-class manufacturing complex.

Forecasts H1 June 2012 DIAMOND BANK Gross Earnings N24.01b Profit after tax N2.44b NESTLE NIGERIA PLC Turnover N26.85b Profit after tax N4.01b CAP Turnover N2.30b Profit after tax N468m UACN Turnover N31.01b Profit after tax N2.63b

UPDC Turnover N6.27b Profit after tax N920m CCNN Turnover N6.64b Profit after tax N579.05m TRANS-NATIONWIDE Turnover N310.26m Profit after tax N27.26m TANTALIZERS Turnover N1.25b Profit after tax N13.06m

TRANSCORP Turnover N1.89b Profit after tax N1.03b CONSOLIDATED HALLMARK INS Gross Premium N3.89b Profit after tax N275.1m AIICO Gross Premium N6.17b Profit after tax N1.62b LAW UNION & ROCK Gross Premium N3.90b Profit after tax N434.03m

CUSTODIAN AND ALLIED INS Gross Premium N6.23b Profit after tax N1.29b PORTLAND PAINTS & PROD Turnover N641.2m Profit after tax N44.24m UTC Turnover N988.10m Profit after tax N85.57m SKYE BANK Gross Earnings N66.47b Profit after tax N7.86b

GOLDLINK INS Gross Premium N2.97b Profit after tax N434.5m NEM INS Gross Premium N6.25b Profit after tax N1.46b ABBEY BUILDING SOCIETY Turnover N866.05m Profit after tax N136.8m INT. ENERGY INS Turnover N3.50b Profit after tax N579.2m

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14, 2012

48

THE NATION INVESTORS

Union Bank emerges among 12 quoted companies

U

NION Bank of Nigeria (UBN) Plc has emerged as one of the most influential stocks on the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) following its successful recapitalisation.

It has consolidated its business growth strategy to regain its position as a leading bank.

The bank has completed all stages of its recapitalisation including the share restructuring, rights issue to shareholders and placements to Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) and new core investors under the auspices of Union Global Partners Limited (UGPL).

With the completion of the exercise, the shareholding structure of the bank now consists of 18.343 billion ordinary shares of 50 kobo each including 2.533 billion shares from initial share reconstruction and additional 1.407 billion shares from the rights issue to pre-scheme shareholders, 3.394 billion shares with AMCON and 11.008 billion shares for the consortium of core investors under the special purpose vehicle of UGPL. At current market consideration, the post-recapitalisation share capital places Union Bank

Stories by Taofik Salako

as the 11th most capitalised company on the stock market, one of the six banks in the highly influential group.

Dangote Cement is the most capitalised company; Nigerian Breweries is second. Other top 12 firms include Nestle Nigeria, Ecobank Transnational Incorporated, Guinness Nigeria, Guaranty Trust Bank, Stanbic IBTC Bank, FirstBank of Nigeria and Access Bank Plc. The top 12 companies control more than two-thirds of the market capitalisation and form the group that decides several market variables including the overall market situation, turnover and key value-based indices such as the benchmark All Share Index and sectoral NSE 30 Index.

A new board of directors, which reflects the new shareholding structure of the bank, was recently inaugurated to mark the conclusion of its recapitalisation following approvals from financial services authorities.

The new board is chaired by Dick Kramer, chairman of African Capital Alliance - the lead

partner in the consortium. Other non-executive directors include Dr. Osindero and Dickie Agumba Ulu. Earlier, Mr Mansur Ahmed and Dr. Nike Akande were reappointed to the board at the last board meeting last year during which all nonexecutive directors retired from December 31.

The bank received $500 million capital from the Union Global partners after fulfilling all regulatory processes and approvals.

With the injection of the Naira equivalent of $500 million, the bank emerged with a capital adequacy ratio of 19 per cent, well above the Central Bank of Nigeria’s minimum requirement of 10 per cent.

Analysts said the success of the recapitalisation has rekindled the growth prospect of the bank, which had projected that it might pool as much as N66 billion in pre-tax profit in three business years between 2012 and 2014.

In a three-year forecast , the bank said it expected that shareholders would have as much as N47 billion in net earnings, which the board and shareholders could decide on at general meetings.

Profit after tax, otherwise known as net earnings after tax or post-tax earnings, exclusively belongs to shareholders who may decide to wholly or partly distribute the sum in cash payouts or bonus shares or plough back such into the business.

According to the forecasts, profit before tax is expected to be about N66 billion for the threeyear period between 2012 and 2014.

Profit before tax is expected to be N13.1 billion in 2012 and thereafter to N24.6 billion and N27.7 billion in 2013 and 2014.

Net earnings distributable to shareholders is expected to be N9.16 billion in 2012 and subsequently rise to N17.9 billion and N19.4 billion in 2013 and 2014.

Breakdown of net earnings showed that basic earnings per share would be 47.58 kobo, 89.31 kobo and about 101 kobo in 2012, 2013 and 2014, indicating the probable level of dividends that the earnings of the bank might be able to support.

Gross earnings of the bank is estimated at N121.72 billion in 2012 and thereafter to N147.85 billion and N169.22 billion in

2013 and 2014.

The performance of the bank is expected to be driven mainly by its core banking operations with interest incomes estimated to rise from N98.41 billion in 2012 to N119.56 billion in 2013 and spiral further to N133.24 billion in 2014. Net interest income is projected at N70.35 billion in 2012 and it’s expected to subsequently rise by 23 per cent and 12.4 per cent to N87.09 billion and N97.89 billion in 2013 and 2014.

The board noted that it had taken all reasonable assumptions into consideration and the forecasts had been prepared in consistent with the accounting policies normally adopted by the bank.

According to the board, it expected the growth in trading securities to increase as a result of capital injection from the core investors and rights issue while the impact of the growth in loans and advances over the period would equally result in increase in interest income.

The board said it expected the deposit base of the bank to grow at an average of 13 per cent over the years.

Rewane predicts 5% equity return in Q1

T

HE stock market may end the first quarter with a positive return of between three and five per cent on the back of strong corporate earnings and revaluations by investors.

Managing Director, Financial Derivatives Company (FDC), Mr Bismarck Rewane, said there were possibilities that the market could rally substantially this month to neutralise its decline ilast month and retain positive returns for the first quarter.

The stock market opened this week with a year-to-date return of 1.06 per cent.

In his latest review of the economy, Rewane noted that risk perception has shifted and revaluations of equities have become compelling following the sell-off in the previous two months.

According to him, fundamentals of the quoted companies and general market outlook remain strong and stronger corporate actions could lift the benchmark return index-the All Share Index

at the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE), back into the green.

He pointed out that there were greater growth prospects for Nigeria compared with the developed economies and other frontier markets.

He added that the stock market could witness some rally in the wake of the release of corporate earnings reports and dividend recommendations of some major stocks including Guaranty Trust Bank (GTBank) Plc. However, Rewane said stock market performance might be

impacted by relatively higher rates and yields in the fixed-income market pointing out that dividend yield and capital appreciation remain lower than yields on government securities, which make fixed income securities a more attractive and less risky alternative.

He warned that Gross Domestic Products (GDP) for the first quarter might fell below projection due to the national strike and protests in January adding that inflation might also trended to 13.5 per cent in February.

He noted that Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) would likely keep interest rates unchanged again in March just as Naira is expected to appreciate marginally to N156 per dollar in the official window and some N159 per dollar in the parallel market.

He pointed out the sustained recovery in the global stock markets amid strong corporate earnings and improving economic data, which might support recovery in economies such as Nigeria, where foreign investors play active roles.

Experts harp on investors’ education, regulations

G

ROUP Managing Director, Royal Exchange Assurance Plc, Mr Chike Mokwunye has stressed the importance of investors’ education to ensure sustainable capital market development and active participation by Nigerians.

Speaking at a workshop on personal financial planning and investment management organised by Royal Exchange Finance and Investment Limited, Mokwunye said proper financial management is very crucial for the survival of every individual and corporate entity and should be given top priority.

According to him, lack of attention to personal financial management contributes to some extent, to the poverty level since no matter how much one may be financially blessed, poor financial and investment management may result, in the long run, to losses and consequently, poverty, especially after years of active service.

He said it was important that investors understand key issues involved in their investment decisions to synthesise various opinions by professionals and make their own informed judgments.

“The question is not whether we have the potential to change our financial future, but rather how we unlock our full potential. What we need are the keys to unlock our full potential,”

Mokwunye said.

In his presentation, a member of the Faculty of the Lagos Business School and former chief executive officer of FCMB Capital Markets Limited, Mr Bayo Rotimi, called on regulators in all sectors of the nation’s economy to build adequate capacity for effective regulation to encourage more investments in the Nigerian economy.

He called on the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), National Pension Commission (PENCOM) and Nigerian Insurance Commission (NAICOM) to ensure zero tolerance on infractions, noting that the financial crisis and stock market crash of 2008 were due to poor regulation and recklessness on the part of some banks.

He said the migration to the International Financial Reporting Standard (IFRS) would improve reporting standards in the country and afford investors opportunity to compare results of quoted companies in different sectors.

He commended the harmonisation of the year-end of banks to December 31, noting that this would enhance investment decision and allow for healthy comparison of investment opportunities.

“Investors can now trust quarterly or annual results released by quoted companies. Before now,

From left: Chairman, Honeywell Group, Dr. Oba Otudeko; Nigeria’s Ambassador to Netherlands, Mrs. Nimota N. Akanbi; and Head of the Delegation from Netherlands African Business Council (NABC), Mr Bob Vander Biji; during the Dutch Trade Mission’s Business visit to Honeywell Group in Lagos.

you are aware that all banks have different year ends and each can come and tell you they are the biggest and at the end of each year, you end up with five banks claiming to be the biggest in the country,” Rotimi said.

He said Nigeria has strong economic potential, pointing out its economy is growing faster than that of South Africa, Brazil and Russia.

“Nigerian economy has huge potential. As a matter of fact, Ni-

geria is one of the richest nations on earth in term of natural resources. Every state in Nigeria today has the potential to be selfsustaining. What is required is hard work and focus, which is not there at the moment,” Rotimi.

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INSURANCE others pay Consolidation: Insurers Royal Exchange, N3.6b claims grapple with excess capital R

H

OW to maximise trading with the huge capital available to insurers is the major challenge arising from consolidation, the Commissioner for Insurance, Mr Fola Daniel, has said Daniel, who spoke at the Lagos Business School (LBS), Pan African University Breakfast Club Meeting in Lagos, said with many operators having excess dormant cash there is the need to open up the market.

He said because of the challenge, the Market Development and Restructuring Initiative (MDRI), was initiated to help deepen the industry and promote insurance operations.

He said: “Consolidation had the beneficial effect of reducing the number of insurance companies from 103 in 2005 to 49 in 2007, and reinsurers from five to two. By implication, the elimination of fringe players from the market left the remaining insurers better capitalised and able to participate in the big ticket risks.

“Also, their capacity to promptly settle genuine claims became more enhanced. The greatest challenge arising from consolidation, from both the regulator and the operators’ perspective, however, was how to maximise trading with the huge capital available to the operators. Indeed many operators had excess dormant cash at

Stories by Chuks Udo Okonta

their disposal hence there arose the need to open up the market.

“There was also a growing need for massive public awareness campaign.

The Market Development and Restructuring Initiative of the Commission became a way out of these challenges.”

He noted that the industry gross premium income reached an impressive N55.9 billion in 2003 up from N45 billion in 2002, adding that development did not call for celebration since 95 per cent of the premium income came from non-life business with just five per cent from life business.

He said a significant proportion of the premiums generated (especially in the oil and gas business) were ceded outside Nigeria, adding that more devastatingly, the inflation that resulted from the introduction of Structural Adjustment Programme (SAP) by the federal government brought about a decline in the real value of the gross premium generated by the insurance industry.

Daniel noted that the monumental increase in the number of insurance operators, the industry’s asset base as at 2005 came to only N123.2 billion.

And despite series of recapitalisation

attempts, the industry’s capitalisation remained low making it impossible for operators to actively participate in the big ticket risks. He said equally, on account of limited capital base, operators lacked capacity to settle large claims and this to a large extent worsened the existing poor public perception of the business.

He noted that MDRI is a medium term industry development plan by the commission covering the period of 2009-2012, stressing that it was designed to operate as the first phase of the necessary reforms in the insurance sector and focused on the following: enforcement of compulsory insurance products, increase insurance awareness, reduction in the incidence of fake insurance and insurance agency reform.

“It is the industry’s projection that the following results will be achieved by the end of 2012: Gross premium income of N1.10 trillion, creation of additional 250,000 new jobs, make substantial contribution into the Fire Service Maintenance Fund (FSMF) as provided in section 65(5) of the Insurance Act, Attain3.0 per cent insurance contribution to the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) as against 0.72 per cent in 2008 and attain premium per capita contribution of N7, 500 from N1,200 in 2008,” he said.

OYAL Exchange General Insurance Company (REGIC), has led a consortium of insurers to pay N3.636 billion claims to Frieslands Foods West African Milk Company (WAMCO) over the flood disaster that damaged major parts of the firm last year, its Managing Director Mr Olutayo Borokini, has said.

Borokini said the other insurance companies in the consortium are Custodian and Allied Insurance; Cornerstone; Goldlink; Mutual Benefits; Law, Union & Rock; Crusader, Leadway; Sterling Assurance; Great Nigeria Insurance; Equity Assurance; AIICO General and NEM Insurance.

He said prompt settlement of claims is an acid test of the efficiency and liquidity of an insurance company and that the consortium is pleased to have been able to assist the company to resume full operations at its Ikeja factory.

He stressed the importance of customer satisfaction as the hallmark of insurance business, add-

ing that “at Royal Exchange, our core values of relationship, trust, and integrity compel us to always seek ways of optimising our processes to ensure that the customer receives immediate benefit for doing business with us.”

Meanwhile, as part of plans to reinvent its operations and further endear itself to its customers, Royal Exchange General Insurance Company (REGIC) has adopted an operations guide which guarantees customers 48 hours of claims settlement, after due documentations had been completed and verified.

Borokini said Royal Exchange is striving to enhance its quality of service delivery by ensuring quick claims settlement, no matter the amount involved.

He also disclosed that last year, Royal Exchange paid out a total of N1.08billion in claims settlement, covering oil and gas insurance, marine insurance, property insurance, motor insurance and industrial all risk insurance.

UI gets N2.5m donation

L

EADWAY Assurance Company Limited said it has donated N2.5 million for the building of the proposed International Conference Centre at the University of Ibadan.

A statement from the company said the donation is in line with its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) focus which gives priority to infrastructural risk management, risk education/information, the environment, health and security.

The company said it has also previously donated N1 million to the same university following the Ibadan flood disaster that affected part of the school’s blocks and many areas of Ibadan last year, which the Oyo State Government three months after the disaster, said it would need about N4.3 billion to fix the infrastructural collapse in the state including roads, bridges, culverts and buildings, destroyed by the heavy downpour.

Zonal Director (Southern Area), Leadway Assurance, Mr Clement.

Atere, during the presentation, extolled the virtues of the university and its pursuit of excellence both historically and in the present. He conveyed the Company’s passion for human capital development and for contributing to infrastructural development to strengthen the educational sector in Nigeria. Atere noted that the Company’s donation was in line with its resolve to contribute positively to the environment within which it operates.

The Vice-Chancellor of the University, Prof. Isaac Adewole, while receiving the donation on behalf of the University’s Fund Raising Committee members, expressed gratitude to Leadway Assurance for supporting the University in maintaining its position as an institution of excellence and as Nigeria’s oldest and foremost university.

IGI supports maritime expo

I

•From left: Zonal Director (Southern Area) Leadway Assurance, Mr Clement Atere presenting a cheque to the Vice-Chancellor University of Ibadan, Prof. Isaac Adewole, in Ibadan.

MDAs yet to submit staff data, says PenCom

N

O fewer than 70 Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) have not submitted their staff data for six years, DirectorGeneral of the National Pension Commission (PenCom) Mr Mohammad Ahmad has said.

Ahmad told The Nation that of the 470 MDAs, 400 have submitted the data, adding that some of those that complied gave incorrect information.

He said over 700,000 workers’ accounts are credited regularly, adding that PenCom hopes to collaborate with the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) to make the defaulting agencies comply.

He said: “Up till now, some MDAs have not submitted their nominal rolls since 2006. We also asked employers to give us details; that also became an issue. We now went back to design a different format entirely that captures their salaries as well as their nominal roll in a very simplified way. Of about 470, less than 400 have submitted their nominal rolls.

Of course, the balance includes those

• ‘Try Pension fraudsters’ who have submitted with incorrect information in their nominal roll.

“The commission as a responsible organisation cannot transfer money into the account of an individual we cannot vouch for because anybody can open an account and say he is a staff of the Ministry of Defence. We have tried all we could like sensitisation and seminars with MDAs and meetings with pension desk officers but, maybe because retirement for most people is not something that is immediate, therefore, they don’t look at it as an issue. Those that are serious made sure they got all the necessary documents.

“As of today, we have over 700,000 employees’ accounts that are being credited regularly and they have been paid up till September. So, those that have submitted correct information have been paid. In addition, they are required to submit their nominal rolls twice a year because during that period an individual may have been promoted. Some are doing it; others are

not. Sometime, with the support of the ICPC, we are going to hold a workshop with them. Maybe we can get more MDAs to do that. Substantial number of MDAs has complied. A few are yet to for whatever reasons.”

Meanwhile, individuals involved in the looting of pension funds should be prosecuted to deter others, experts have said.

A retiree of the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) Mr Mr Gbadebo Olatokunbo said those who diverted public pension funds should be prosecuted according to stipulated laws.

Pension Consultant Mr Tai Adediji said those involved in the fraud should be prosecuted.

He said it is heartless for such people to be tampering with the livelihood of people who worked hard for the nation.

President, Nigerian Shareholders’ Renaissance Association (NSRA), Mr Olufemi Timothy, said the law should be applied against the fraudsters.

NDUSTRIAL and General Insurance PLC has said it is partnering with the stakeholders in the Maritime sector to promote the second edition of the Nigerian Maritime Expo tagged NIMAREX 2012.

The Expo, tagged: untapped opportunities in the maritime industry in an emerging economy, is billed for March 13t – 15t..

A statement from the company said it is poised to deployed modern technology and strategic competence and volume at the NIMAREX 2012, adding that it is confident that the maritime expo would help the nation come up with the Nigerian perspective on the roadmap for a prosperous future for

Africa in the long run.

It said an assemblage of maritime products, new technologies, services and expertise would be showcased to both local and international players in maritime and allied businesses during the expo and stakeholders will converge to network and explore Nigeria’s largely untapped maritime sector.

IGI’s marine insurance specialist, Mrs. Florence Oladimeji, said the would enable business leaders in the nation align their views with those of their global counterparts on how best to consolidate the present and future expectations of industry spectators, as maritime business is still largely untapped in Nigeria.

CIIN to drive MDRI

T

HE Chartered Insurance Institute of Nigeria (CIIN) mandate is to provide human capacity for propelling the Market Development and Restructuring Initiative, its Director-General, Mr Adegboyega Adepegba, has said.

Adepegba told The Nation that CIIN’s major concern is to provide the human capital required to achieve the objectives of the initiative. He said the institute is already training agents that will be deployed in the initiative He said: “If you study the document on MDRI, you will observe that there is a prime position for agents. The whole idea is to have agents as at old. Agents that would be in every part of the country, who

would not concentrated in the urban areas. Before they can do that, they must be trained with the requisite skills, even as insurance canvassers. The CIIN is already working on this – training them, in the last two months, we have been able to train about 1000 agents, and the target is to train between 5000 and 8000 this year.”

He said insurance business is indeed good, but there is certain havoc been wrecked on the practice by people who do not know what they are doing. He said it is dangerous to have people who do not have the basic skills or who are half backed to be let loose into the market, adding that most of the problem insurance has come from the activities of people who canvass for business.

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14, 2012

52

SMALL BUSINESS AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP

Making money from orange farming F ARMERS can earn a living from farming in oranges.

A firm, Teragro, an agribusiness subsidiary of Transnational Corporation of Nigeria Plc, is running a processing plant for producing concentrates in Benue State.

Its Chief Executive Officer, Dr Jide Adedeji, said there are opportunities for small scale farmers to sell their products.

The quantity of oranges in Benue, Adedeji said, is very large, and that it can meet domestic demand.Painfully, about 60 per cent of harvested oranges is wasted because of bad wheather, poor transportation and lack of storage infrastructure.

He said his organisation is prepared to reduce this wastage.

He said his company is providing small farmers with the chance to supply orange fruits it needs to produce concentrate.

Fresh oranges, Adedeji said, have potential market opportunities, especially internationally.

He said he is encouraging farmers to supply good quality oranges help them to participate in value adding of agricultural products.

The project, he noted, will promote entrepreneurship and curb poverty through income generation.

Stories by Daniel Essiet

From a capacity perspective, he said, Benue has abundant fertile soil that can produce agricultural crops the nation requires for domestic consumption and food security. He said Benue is ideal for an array of fruit trees, adding that the company has a knowledge of the fruit market landscape and which fruits should have priority.

He said commercial fruit juice processors import all their concentrate from overseas.

Once harvested, he said the farmers will supply fresh fruit to company for processing.

He said his company has well-established infrastructure, and efficient modern processing technology, enabling it to produce high-quality concentrate.

The concentration process involves heating the juice to evaporate some of the water contained in the juice, while still maintaining the taste.

Adedeji called on the government to provide an enabling environment for commercial farming of orange.

He said the agriculture sector could attract private sector investment only if the government shows its commitment to develop the sector with additional investment by entrepre-

• Adedeji (left) and Minister of Agriculture, Dr Akinwumi Adesina during the inauguration of the company’s processing plant in Benue State.

neurs.

The generation of valueadded products, he said, will bring economic benefits for rural households.

The Managing Director, Transnational Corporation of Nigeria Plc, Mr Obinna Ufudo, said the firm has invested more than $1 million in the company.

The company, he said, it has an agro-industrial development plan to boost food production and provide self and wage employment for Nigerians.

He said the processing of produce is part of food security and that market expansion of fresh produce is limited by perishability.

Meanwhile, he said his company is ready to upgrade cassava and other produce by diversifying final consumption away from fresh produce towards processed food.

He said his company is ready to play a pivotal role in supporting the growth of agro industry by discouraging the importation

of processed concentrates for use in the food processing industry, adding that it is ready to produce high value-added orange, mango and cassava ready for utilisation.

He said promoting and supporting agro-industry livelihood systems could provide alternative opportunities for rural people and enhance the possibility for local development.

He said the activities of the company will favour growth of farmers and enable them to increase their production levels.

Group lauds Fed Govt for scrapping export expansion grant

L

EATHER and Allied Product Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (LAPAN) has praised the Federal Government for scrapping the Export Expansion Grant (EEG).

Chairman of the association, Mustapha Nabegu,

From Kolade Adeyemi, Kano

who gave the commendation in a press statement made available to The Nation in Kano. He noted that investigations revealed that while the EEG was operational, between 80 and120

million pairs of shoes were imported into Nigeria yearly to the detriment of local producers.

“It is our belief that with little assistance from the Federal Government, our local footwear industry will be capable of taking care of its needs like in the good

old days of bata,” he said.

“This will, in turn, create jobs for thousands of Nigerians. It will also create enormous wealth which will help conserve the country’s foreign exchange, as the export of leather products to our neighbouring countries. It will also create

an acceptable brand out of Nigerian leather,” he added.

He said in the past Nigeria had a vibrant footwear industry withe companies such Bata (known as FAMAD), Anita, Silver, Superior Shoes, Lennards, Top Crown, Whanu Shoe, John

White footwear Ltd, Unik Shoes, Lado Ltd, among others.

The association restated its commitment to support the Federal Government’s transformation agenda through job creation, wealth and industrial growth.

‘Iron ore export is viable’

T

HERE is enough ironore for export in West Africa. There is also a high demand or the eaw material worldwide. This means entrepreneurs who invest in the susector will benefit from it.

It is for this, for example, that in Sierra Leone, an indigeneous firm,African Minerals Limited, is rebuilding its railway for the export of iron ore.

More nations are involved in the supply of 250 million tonnes to get a chunk of the global iron ore output by

2015.

An expert in the export of iron ore, Chidueme Jude, said investment in the business is profitable.

Jude, who is the Managing Director, Mydex Thrust Limited, said exporting iron ore and other mineral resources is worthwhile as it can give Nigerians the opportunity to make money.

Iron ore is a major raw material or producing steel.

Jude said industrialised countries need large quantities of steel for their infrastructure, their buildings and their fac-

THE EMERGING WEALTH PLATFORM Make Jet profits mining solid minerals and exporting local commodities. * Understand the Challenges * Join the dialogue * Gain the insight An opportunity for active and passive investors A Very low risk business once you are properly tutored Venue: Protea Hotels Asokoro Abuja Date: Saturday March 24, 2012 Time: 8am prompt Course Fee: N150, 000 (discount available for early and group registrations) Full course details and benefits are available at www.mydexexport.com For further inquiry and seat reservation (limited) call Jude on 07030301680 or Onyeka on 08156185416

• Jude

tories.

Countries such as China are looking out for alternate sources to meet its huge raw material requirement. They want to buy iron ore from anywhere it is aviale, he disclosed.

Because of this, he said there is strong demand for iron ore in that country and in parts of the world.

Even then he warned that while in some countries some entrepreneurs are trying to find their feet in the sector, illegal miners also having a field day. Reason: export prices are higher than the local prices of iron ore.

On an investment of about N4 million, he said there is a possibility of making 50 per cent return on turnover.

• Itakpe iron ore deposit in Kogi State.

He said iron ore deposits can be found in Benue, Anambra and Kogi states.

His company is holding a workshop to help exporters make it in the sector.

He said local exporters will be shown how to assess existing markets and products and identify opportunities for market and product diversification.

One of the key challenges facing exporters is how to reduce the concentration of their exports to reduce their vulnerability to external

shocks and boost economic growth and income.

He said the workshop will provide insights, which are essential for the assessment of trade potential in a target country.

Some of the top experts in the iron ore and other minerals exports, Jude added will give guidance to Nigerians on how to comply with the tough import requirements of developed country markets.

According to him, lack of understanding or of specific

technical knowledge of how to enter the markets can be a barrier to export success. The workshop will expose participants to tools for assessing their export readiness and responding to the full business development cycle.

Participants will learn the importance of defining and marketing their unique brand identity and methodologies for choosing and developing the right products for export and for calculating and setting export market prices.

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14, 2012

53

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14, 2012

54

EQUITIES NIGERIAN STOCK EXCHANGE DAILY SUMMARY AS AT 13-3-12

High-cap stocks sustain market’s rally H IGHLY capitalised stocks rallied yesterday to sustain the positive rally at the Nigerian stock market in spite of losses suffered by most stocks that recorded price changes.

With nearly two losers to a gainer, highly capitalised stocks propped up the market and lifted the overall market position by 0.65 per cent.

The All Share Index (ASI), the common valuebased index that tracks all equities on the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE), inched up to 21,227.98 points as against its opening index of 21,091.36 points.

Aggregate market capitalisation of all equities added N43 billion to close at N6.699 trillion compared with its opening value of N6.656 trillion, representing an increase of 0.65 per cent.

Although the overall market situation sustained positive trend, the bears ravaged many key subsectors including banking, insurance and oil and gas.

The NSE 30 Index, which

By Taofik Salako and Tonia Osundolire

represents the 30 most capitalised stocks, trended upward from 962.78 points to 965.10 points. The NSE Consumer Good Index also improved from 1,760.80 points to 1,745.28 points.

However, the NSE Banking Index slipped from 302.42 points to 294.94 points. The Insurance Index dropped from 123.74 points to 122.56 points.

The NSE Oil and Gas Index also declined from 219.21 points to 218.41 points.

The uptrend was orchestrated by gains by Nestle Nigeria Plc, Dangote Cement, Unilever Nigeria and Dangote Sugar Refinery among others. Nestle Nigeria led the advancers with a gain of N23.09 to close at N486.70. Dangote Cement followed with a gain of N5.45 to close at N116. Julius Berger Nigeria added N1.30 to close at N27.44. Berger Paints gathered 38 kobo to close at N7.98. Unilever Nigeria added 34 kobo to close at N29.40. Cadbury Nigeria rose by 33 kobo to close at

N10.70 while Dangote Sugar Refinery gained 14 kobo to close at N3.75.

On the downside, Guinness Nigeria topped the slackers’ list with a drop of N11.94 to close at N229.56. Zenith Bank followed with a loss of 50 kobo to close at N13.21.

UACN Property Development Company dropped by 45 kobo to close at N10.45. First Bank of Nigeria lost 35 kobo to close at N10.60. Nigerian Aviation Handling Company slipped by 34 kobo to close at N6.95. Guaranty Trust Bank dropped by 33 kobo to close at N14.25. Access Bank lost 31 kobo to close at N6.55. Oando lost 30 kobo to close at N22.51.

Union Bank of Nigeria dropped by 27 kobo to close at N5.21 while Portland Paints and Products slipped by 24 kobo to close at N4.62 per share.

Investors staked a total of N5.42 billion on 243.46 million shares in 4,002 deals. Banking subsector accounted for a turnover of 152.01 million shares valued at N1.15 billion in 2,149 deals. Breweries subgroup ranked second on the activity chart with a turnover of 24.95 million shares valued at N2.50 billion in 228 deals.

Insurance subsector recorded a turnover of 15.31 million shares valued at N13.75 million in 166 deals.

NIGERIAN STOCK EXCHANGE DAILY SUMMARY AS AT 13-3-12

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14, 2012

55

MONEY LINK

MfBs share borrowers’ data to check default

A

FTER series of reforms that streamlined their lending plans and modalities, microfinance banks are finding new ways of checking the activities of serial or predator borrowers.

At their monthly meeting held in the six geopolitical zones, the banks shared information on debtors that lack the credibility and willingness to repay their loans, The Nation has learnt.

Chief Operating Officer, Credit Registry Services (Credit Bureau) Edna Ishaya, who confirmed the development said banks have taken this step to ensure that they correct the mistakes of the past where customers with questionable characters bor-

By Collins Nweze

rowed funds, and refused to pay.

She said aside loan default problems, many MfBs whose licences were withdrawn by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) over liquidity problems, made costly mistakes in the course of their operations. Many of the banks lacked appropriate products to attract the right customers while others were highly undercapitalised.

Chief Executive Officer, CRC Credit Bureau, Tunde Popoola, said part of the problems facing the sector is because many of the banks still operate manually making it difficult to easily detect fraudulent transactions.

ing allegations of insider abuse, people giving loans to their family members for their own businesses,” he said.

Many of the MfBs liquidated by the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC) ran into trouble when some of their debtors refused to pay back their loans, over 80 per cent of which were unsecured.

Besides, some of the MfBs were taking excessive risks, and branching out too quickly without considering the resources at their disposal and whether utilised funds fell were short or long term obligations.

He said aside the problem of insider abuse in lending, many banks are not doing microfinance banking as they target the same high networth customers being targeted by deposit money banks, adding that many of the troubled microfinance banks lent large sums exceeding the N500,000 regulatory benchmark to borrowers.

“Quite a number of microfinance banks are not doing microfinance banking. The guideline for their operation says that you cannot give more than N500,000 to one borrower, but just a handful of them adhere to this regulatory requirement. We have seen concentration of funds in the hands of few borrowers and increas-

N

It is also expected to deliver an informed analyst opinion and commentary on developments in the bond market to regulators, government and the investing public. “This will assist in increasing the rigor that goes into decision making related to the bond market and the viability of the market maintain the discerning pedigree of this market by ensuring that the participants are able to engage for wealth building in a structured, informed, sophisticated and professional manner through the structured platforms put in place,” it said.

According to the statement, the service is primarily positioned as a complement to the investment market in such a way as enhance the activities of the Nigerian capital market to support a competitive platform for both the equity and bond markets respectively leaving the investor to make intelligent decisions based on their own realities.

The partnership coordinator from ‘Dunn Loren Merrifield’; Mr. Tola

T

O make the foreign exchange market more accessible to Nigerians, a new trading platform, Forextime (FXTM) Trading West Africa, has been unveiled in Lagos. The Director, Mr Abiola Akinyemi, said during the Lagos Electronic Traders’ Conference, the new platform would enable them offer more services that minimise challenges people face in the currency market.

The firm said its Micro accounts allow interested traders to get started without minimum deposit.

“We have a wide variety of trading accounts that cater to clients of all types and skill level, from beginners to professionals and institutional traders. Even if you do not plan to trade, you can start earning money on Forex by investing in our products,” Akinyemi said.

He added: “FXTM Nigeria is a certified partner of FXTM New Zealand. The FXTM brand is an established name in the financial capitals of the world. FXTM is continuing its expansion in Nigeria with the opening of new offices in

Odukoya, said investors are assured of their periodic interest payments and principal at maturity date. Also, a liquid secondary market exists for investors who want to buy and sell their securities in line with their respective investment decisions.”

Senior Analyst, Proshare Nigeria, Mr. Taiwo Ologbon- Ori said the partnership reaffirms the core for the existence of Proshare as an independent platform dedicated to identify world class competence and capacity in the local market and yielding its platform to intelligent sources of data, analysis and service capabilities that would aid the business of investment in the Nigerian Capital Market. He said: “I am rest assured that both firms will work together to use this platform as a means of creating awareness, understanding and education to the investing public with respect to the workings of the Bond market in Nigeria, most especially the development of the corporate bond market.”

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

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

O/PRICE

BERGER 7.60 NESTLE 463.61 JBERGER 26.17 DANGCEM 110.55 DANGSUGAR 3.61 CADBURY 10.37 CUSTODYINS 1.68 STERLINBANK 1.13 DANGFLOUR 4.62 UNILEVER 29.06

Current Before

C/PRICE

CHANGE

7.98 486.70 27.47 116.00 3.75 10.70 1.71 1.15 4.68 29.40

0.38 23.09 1.30 5.45 0.14 0.33 0.03 0.02 0.06 0.34

O/PRICE

GUINNESS PORTPAINT UBN GOLDINSURE ETERNAOIL IKEJAHOTEL NAHCO JOSBREW ACCESS LIVESTOCK

241.50 4.86 5.48 0.62 4.14 1.49` 7.29` 1.95 6.86 1.15

C/PRICE

229.56 4.62 5.21 0.59 3.94 1.42 6.95 1.86 6.55 1.10

150m

150m

150m

155.8

29-2-12

138m 113m

138m 113m

155.8 155.7

27-2-12 22-2-12

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

(S/N) Bureau de Change 152.0000

153.0000

155.5000

-2.30

154.0000

156.0000

-1.96

NSE CAP Index

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

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

% Change -1.44% -1.44%

NIGERIA INTER BANK (S/N)

MEMORANDUM QUOTATIONS Name

153.0000

DISCOUNT WINDOW Feb. ’11

July ’11

Dec ’11

MPR

6.50%

6.50%

12%

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% 12.6%

Offer Price

Bid Price

9.17 1.00 1,177.37 99.76 0.76 1.04 0.88 1,666.70 8.24 1.39 1.87 7,137.57 193.00 1.67

9.08 1.00 1,160.06 99.49 0.73 1.04 0.87 1,663.73 7.84 1.33 1.80 6,953.84 191.08 1.62

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 FIDELITY NIGFUND • ARM AGGRESSIVE • KAKAWA GUARANTEED • STANBIC IBTC GUARANTE

CHANGE

11.94 0.24 0.27 0.03 0.20 0.07 0.34 0.09 0.31 0.05

Date

138m 113m

LOSER AS AT 13-3-12 SYMBOL

Rate (N)

C u r r e n t CUV Start After %

NGN USD

Parallel Market SYMBOL

Exchange

Sold ($)

CAPITAL MARKET INDEX Year Start Offer

(S/N)

GAINERS AS AT 13-3-12

Amount

EXHANGE RATE 6-03-12 Currency

INTERBANK RATES

Amount

Offered ($) Demanded ($)

MANAGED FUNDS

OBB Rate Call Rate

By Nneka Nwaneri

Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt.

With FXTM, Nigerian traders do not only get access to all of the products and services of FXTM New Zealand, they also get the feeling of security that comes from working with a trusted broker.”

Forextime offers free introductory seminars on Forex trading, and provides better deposit and withdrawal options, which can be posted to accounts in no more than 48 hours. He said though foreign exchange trading could be complicated for many, the firm “breaks it into simple forms. The new platform is launched today (yesterday) and Nigerians should expect better services.

“By five years or less, there will be more knowledge and more presence and we will get some international recognition in the area of currency trading, such that in Africa, Nigeria becomes the hub of currency trading and African conferences will be held in Nigeria,” he said.

DATA BANK

Tenor

NIDF NESF

• CBN Governor, Sanusi Lamido

New forex makes debut

Proshare, Dunn Loren Merrifield partner IGERIAN’S financial information and analyst platform Proshare has announced its partnership with Dunn Loren Merrifield, a full-service investment house with a global focus, to deliver a strategic and investor engaging information service for the Nigerian Bond Market.

A statement from the firm said whilst identifying the huge service and information gap in this sector and the urgent need for hands-on professionals to conduct effectively its operations, it is clear that the bond market is still new in its virgin state compared to the equity market, and has not earned enough reportage cum necessary exposure that it deserves for investors to engage.

The firm said this engagement is to create a platform backed by veritable professional competence and market savvy the provision of daily, weekly, periodical data and market performance information on the Nigerian bond market to a discerning public.

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NIBOR Tenor 7 Days 30 Days 60 Days 150 Days

Rate (Previous) 4 Mar, 2012 9.0417 9.6667 11.2917 12.1250

• AFRINVEST W.A. EQUITY FUND

Rate (Currency) 6, Mar, 2012 10.17% 11.46% 11.96% 12.54%

Movement

OPEN BUY BACK Previous

Current

04 July, 2011

07, Aug, 2011

Bank

8.5000

8.5000

P/Court

8.0833

8.0833

Movement

56

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14, 2012

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14, 2012

57

NEWS

•Abia State Governor Theodore Orji (fifth left) with some eminent indigenes of the state and representatives of the African Development Bank after a meeting in Abuja...yesterday.

PHOTO: IBEABUCHI ABARIKWU

Why I stayed away from Ojukwu’s burial, by Uwazuirike

M

OVEMENT for the Actualisation of the Sovereign State of Biafra (MASSOB) leader Chief Ralph Uwazuirike yesterday said he deliberately stayed away from the burial of the late Ikemba of Nnewi, Chief Dim Odumegwu-Ojukwu, to allow the Federal Government participate fully in the funeral.

Uwazuirike spoke at Ojukwu’s graveside, when he visited the widow, Bianca.

He was accompanied by his second-in-command, Chief Rommy Ezeonwuka, and other top MASSOB officials.

Uwazuirike said his absence at the burial was to avoid distractions.

From Okodili Ndidi, Onitsha and Odogwu Emeka Odogwu, Nnewi

He said: “I decided to step aside after the President assured me that the Federal Government would take care of everything. I wanted the best for Ezeigbo. I knew it would be better for the entire Nigeria to bury him than for only Ndigbo to do so. I am happy he got a befitting burial.

“Ojukwu meant everything to MASSOB and Ndigbo, and no sacrifice is too much to make to accord him the last respect. Without him, there would be nothing like Igbo agenda or struggle for emancipation.”

The MASSOB leader, who was dressed in full Biafra

regalia, said Ojukwu’s death would foster Igbo unity. He said henceforth, all Igbo meetings would be held at the late Igbo leader’s house.

Uwazuirike praised Bianca for standing by the late Ojukwu at all times and assured her that MASSOB would actualise his aspirations. He said: “You love Ndigbo and Ndigbo love you. You endured everything and we just cannot thank you enough.”

Uwazuirike thanked President Goodluck Jonathan for giving Ojukwu a befitting burial. He said: “Mr. President has done well for us and we heartily thank him. MASSOB will continue to support him as long as it does not compromise our agenda.”

Bianca, who accompanied Uwazuirike to lay a wreath on the grave, thanked him for accepting to stay at the background during the burial.

She said: “We cannot thank you enough for what you have done for Ezeigbo to see that he got the best burial in Africa. Today, it is on record that he got the best burial ever in the world and we thank you and all Nigerians for your support.”

Ezeonwuka said the unity achieved by Ndigbo during the burial would be sustained by the new Igbo leadership, to give the people a formidable front to pursue the ideals and visions of the late Ojukwu.

Robbers kill driver in Abakaliki

A

MIDDLE-AGED man, Mr. Bartholomew Igwe, was killed yesterday by robbers in Abakaliki, the Ebonyi State capital.

The late Igwe hailed from Oriuzor in Ezza North Local Government Area.

It was gathered that gunmen invaded a filling station on Ogoja Road at 2 am and stole an undisclosed amount of money before killing the victim.

Sources said the late Igwe,

From Ogbonnaya Obinna, Abakaliki who slept in one of the rooms at the filling station, had his hands and legs tied with a piece of cloth covering his face.

It was gathered that the deceased was suffocated before he was shot. Bullet wounds and machete cuts were found on his body.

A close friend to the owner of the filling station, who pleaded for anonymity, said

the deceased might have been killed because he attempted to contact the police during the robbery.

He said: “The owner of the company was very good to the late Igwe and his family, which may have made him attempt to contact the police.

“We suspect that the hoodlums sensed what he was trying to do and killed him.”

Police spokesman John Eluu, who confirmed the

incident, said: “The driver closed work around 1am and decided to sleep at the office because the office is far from town. The robbers tied his hands and legs and killed him.”

He said residents did not know about the incident until daybreak, when they found the victim in a pool of blood.

Eluu said investigation into the murder had begun and urged the public to assist the police with information.

Anambra PDP members battle for national position

T

HERE is tension in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Anambra State over the party’s National Publicity Secretary.

Four chieftains of the party are interested in the position.

They are former PDP State Secretary and Jakada of Lokoja Chief Chike Udenze; PDP National ViceChairman, Southeast, Chief Olisa Metuh; former spokesman of the old Rangers Football Club, Enugu and former DirectorGeneral of Prof. Charles Soludo’s Governorship Campaign Organisation Chief Okey Muo Aroh; and former Onitsha South Council Chairman Chief Ezeobi Okpala.

Former Commissioner for Women’s Affairs Chief Genevieve Ekwochi is pushing for the position of

From Nwanosike Onu, Awka

the National Women’s Leader.

A stakeholder, who pleaded for anonymity, said: “Udenze, Aroh and Metuh are good candidates for the job, but we would not allow the people in Abuja to impose any person on the party.

“Anyone who knows he has what it takes to occupy the position should do his home work very well and I believe

the aspirants have started doing so.”

Speaking with reporters yesterday in Awka, Udenze described the Office of the National Publicity Secretary as “challenging” and said it must be occupied by some one “above board”.

Udenze said: “As a high national office of the ruling party, members must be thorough in the choice of the next image maker. The successful candidate will be

the face of the party to the world. He must be one without blemish, so I have to be the person.”

Aroh said: “I have done such a job before, when I led Rangers International Football Club to glory in the ‘70s, so it is not a new thing to me.

“All I ask for is a fair playing field. There is no need calling ourselves names, we are all brothers and loyal party men.

Let the will of God be done.”

Ihedioha mourns 18 graduates

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EPUTY Speaker of the House of Representatives Emeka Ihedioha has condoled with the families of 18 graduates who died in a road crash while travelling from Imo State to Taraba State for the orientation exercise of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) scheme.

Ihedioha said their deaths at a time when their parents should begin to enjoy

From Victor Oluwasegun and Dele Anofi, Abuja

the fruits of their labour is painful.

He described them as “leaders of tomorrow who died in the process of serving their fatherland,” and prayed for the repose of their souls.

Ihedioha extended his condolence to the NYSC Director-General and the Minister of Youth Development, urging them to remain focused on achieving the aims of the scheme.

Ebonyi Assembly rerun today •Police deploy 390 men for poll From Ogbonnaya Obinna, Abakaliki

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HE House of Assembly rerun in Ezza South Constituency, Ebonyi State, will hold today.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) said it distributed election materials in the constituency yesterday.

The Resident Electoral Commissioner, Mr. Okay Ezeali, told reporters in Abakaliki, the state capital, that the election would be conducted in the 130 polling units and the result would be announced at the constituency collation centre at Onueke.

Ezeali said: “We are prepared for today’s rerun in Ezza South constituency. Accreditation of voters will commence at 8am, while voting will begin at 12.30pm.

“We have distributed both sensitive and non-sensitive materials in the constituency. The sensitive materials distributed yesterday include ballot papers and the result sheets series.

“INEC workers and corps members that will conduct the election have been mobilised to the area to ensure that the election commences at the stipulated time.”

He assured the people that INEC will conduct a free, fair and credible election.

Ezeali said anyone who contravenes the provisions of the Electoral Act would be punished.

Police spokesman John Eluu said the command has deployed 390 policemen in the constituency.

The policemen will work with soldiers, men of the Nigeria Security Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Immigration officers and other paramilitary personnel to ensure security at polling units and ward collation centres.

Eluu warned politicians and party supporters against violence and intimidation.

The Appeal Court, sitting in Enugu, in January nullified the election of the member representing the constituency, Mr. Chris Usulu, on the grounds of irregularities and non-compliance with the Electoral Act.

Ojukwu’s demise’ll make APGA stronger, says chair

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HE National Chairman of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Chief Victor Umeh, has said the death of Chief Dim Odumegwu-Ojukwu would make the party stronger.

Umeh said the party would ensure that the legacies of its late leader live on.

He said the late Ojukwu’s ideals would propel the party to win the next governorship elections in the Southeast states.

Besides Anambra State, which will conduct its governorship election in 2014, other Southeast states will hold their polls in 2015.

Speaking with The Nation yesterday, Umeh said despite Ojukwu’s demise, the party is not afraid of anybody or party.

He said during the 2010 governorship campaign of Governor Peter Obi, Ojukwu told them he may not be

From Nwanosike Onu, Awka

around to campaign for anybody again.

Umeh said the late Ikemba Nnewi told them to look for somebody with courage to lead Ndigbo.

He said those words would make APGA stronger after Ojukwu’s death.

Umeh said: “We will retain his ideas; we are his apostles and will never be afraid of anyone. In 2015, we are going to sweep the entire Southeast at the elections.”

On the alleged crisis rocking the party before Ojukwu’s death, the national chairman said every party has its share of disagreement.

He said: “There is no crisis of any sort. Are you listening to those jokers who said Umeh has been replaced? I am still the National Chairman and there are no cracks in APGA.”

Court dismisses Uba’s petition From Chris Oji, Enugu

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HE Appeal Court, sitting in Enugu, yesterday struck out a petition brought before it by the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the last senatorial election in Anambra South District, Mr. Andy Uba, urging it to set aside the December 22, 2011, verdict that nullified his election.

Justice Abdulkadir Jega said the 60 days stipulated for the disposal of election petition matters in Section 285 Sub section 7 of the Constitution has elapsed.

Jega said Sundays, public holidays and court vacations are included in the 60 days and no court has the power to extend the allotted time. The petition was struck it out with no cost.

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14, 2012

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NEWS FAAN denies report of prolonged power outage at MMIA

By Eric Ikhilae

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HE Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has denied report that the outage experienced at the Murtala Mohammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos last Sunday would persist for months.

FAAN’s General Manager, Public Affairs, Akin Olukunle, in a statement, denied ever granting an interview in which he said the outage would persist for about four months.

He said FAAN has put in place measures to ensure effective power supply to its airports across the country.

Olukunle said the measure, which is part of the plan by the Federal Government to uplift the nation’s airports, was a collaborative effort of the Federal Governnment, the Ministry of Aviation and FAAN. The statement reads: “To set the record straight, there was a power outage in some parts of the MMIA terminal between 2.30pm and 7pm on Sunday. The problem, caused by a technical fault, was immediately rectified by our engineers, leading to the restoration of power supply to all parts of the terminal, with the continuation of all airport operations.

“Though some of the airport users experienced some inconveniences, it was never at the level of suffocation as reported. It is also worthy of note that FAAN has functional standby generators at all our 22 airports to ensure uninterrupted power supply.”

Baptist men organise retreat

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HE Men’s Missionary Union of Ayetoro Baptist Church, Mushin, Lagos will on Saturday organise a workers’ retreat, tagged: “Know who you are”. The programme, which is to start at 9 am, will hold at the church’s English Worship Centre, 16, Alafia Street, Mushin, Lagos.

Jos: Churches to be barricaded during worship R OADS and streets leading to worship centres in Jos and environs, will henceforth be blocked to vehicles during services to check the new trend of suicide bombing.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the decision was among the key measures taken at a security meeting yesterday in Jos. The meeting was attended by the Commissioner of Police, Mr. Dipo Ayeni, Special Task Force (STF) Commander, Maj.-Gen. Mohammed Ibrahim and SSS Director, Mr. Christian Ojobo.

Also present were the NSCDC Commander, Mr. Desmond Agu, top security officers and representatives of the Plateau Government.

Ayeni said: “We are tired of carrying corpses every Sunday.

“On Sundays and Fridays, roads leading to worship centres must be totally blocked or diverted. No vehicle should have access or park

near any worship centre during service.

“There should be a perimeter fencing of all the worship centres not only in Jos, but all over the state, to prevent access by suicide bombers.”

Ayeni also said: “Every worshipper must, as a matter of compelling necessity, subject himself or herself to security checks, no matter how highly placed.”

The police commissioner announced a ban on carrying of bags in worship centres and advised worshippers against clustering around the places of worship.

The police officer urged worship centres to purchase technical devices that could scan and detect explosive devices and said no one should be exempted from the checks.

The Commander of the Po-

‘On Sundays and Fridays, roads leading to worship centres must be totally blocked or diverted. No vehicle should have access or park near any worship centre during service’ lice Anti-bomb Squad, Mr. Abel Mbimbi, cautioned against rushing to the scenes of explosions.

He said this is because a secondary explosion may occur.

Mbimbi said Nigerians have been destroying many evidential materials by rushing to the scenes of blasts,

which could have been used to trace the sources through fingerprints.

The STF Commander, Ibrahim, said it is difficult to differentiate between fake and genuine soldiers as military camouflages are sold in the markets.

“But anyone who suspects anybody in uniform should demand his identity and everybody should also be checked at security posts.

“We are conducting thorough searches at checkpoints now to check cases of fake soldiers,” he said.

The SSS Director, Ojobo, enjoined imams and pastors to show good leadership examples by subjecting themselves to security checks.

Rev. Benjamin Kwashi, Bishop of Jos Anglican Diocese, said criminals should be made to face the wrath of the law.

He said failure to bring them to justice had made some of them to rise to leadership positions.

Tanker crushes four cars in Abuja

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TANKER yesterday lost control and crushed four cars in

Abuja.

The tanker, with registration number XA 200 KTN, belonging to Mobil Filling Station, was climbing a hill when its brake failed.

Nobody died in the acci-

From Bukola Amusan, Abuja

dent.

The crash occurred near Wonderland, on the way to the Airport Road. A Toyota Camry 2010 model was damaged.

The other cars affected were an orange-colour

Honda Element with Abuja registration number HA 877 AAA, an Ash-colour Toyota Camry numbered UE 200 AAA and a black Honda Civic.

The occupant of the Toyota Camry, who identified herself as Mrs. Audu, said she was returning

home with her two children.

The woman, who said she is a civil servant, thanked God for sparing her life and her children.

Officials of the Federal Road Safety Corps later cleared the debris from the scene of the accident.

Commissioner faces arrest for contempt BAUCHI High Court presided over by Justice Kunaza Hamidu yesterday ordered the arrest of Ibrahim Aminu, the Commissioner for Education, for failing to appear in court to defend himself over the allegations levelled against him by Alpha 1 Connexion Ltd. Samaila Idris, counsel to Alpha 1 Connexion Ltd., prayed the court to arrest the commissioner for refusing to pay his client N4.9

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PUBLIC NOTICE OPEN HEAVENS INTERNATIONAL CENTRE FOUNDATION This is to notify the General public that the above organisation has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission, Abuja, for registration.

The object for which the registration is sought is as follows: 1. To promote and preserve the dissemination of the gospel of Jesus Christ through books, video/audio tapes, CDs and computer software etc 2. To establish or own museums and libraries for the preservation, storage and display of gospel materials.

3. To print, publish or produce gospel and educational materials.

4. To encourage and support missionaries and to be dedicated in the provision of gospel materials.

THE NAMES OF THE TRUSTEES ARE; 1. Pastor Mrs Foluke Adeboye 2. Pastor Adeolu Adeboye 3. Mrs. Bolugbe Adubi 4. Pastor Damilare Adeboye 5. Deacon Oluwagbemileke Adeboye Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the Registrar general, Corporate Affairs Commission Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

SIGNED; Jite Olatunbode &Co (Solicitors) No 1b Omorinre Johnson Close Lekki 1, Lagos

PUBLIC NOTICE ABUBAKAR SADDIQ JUMU’AT MOSQUE FOUNDATION This is to inform the general public that the above named foundation has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission, Abuja for registration under the part “C” of Companies and Allied Matters Acts, CAP 1 of 1990.

TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Capt. Bashir Sodangi 6. Mal. Iliyasu Ibrahim 2. Mal. Salmanu Aliyu 7. Alh. Musa Soja 3. Alh. Muhammad Adamu 8. Alh. Zulyadaini Ishaq 4. Alh. Usman Bala 9. Mal. Muhammad Abubakar 5. Alh. Sani Ibrahim 10. Mal. Lawal Usman.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1. To inculcate the awareness and coexistence to the non Muslims 2. To educate the Members and maintain brotherhood 3. To have unity and Harmony among the members 4. To Arrange seminar, symposia, lectures for the peaceful coexistence of the Muslim Ummah.

5. To facilitate the Zakkat endowment board for collection and distribution to the poor and needy.

6. To facilitate the Almajiri Child Education, Orphan and the less Privileged.

Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the Registrar-General, Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420, Tigris Crescent, off Aguyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Abuja within twenty-eight (28) days from the date of this publication.

Signed: Mallam Salmanu Aliyu (Secretary)

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million, being the cost of the construction of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Centre at Government Secondary School, Kofar Idi. The company had sued the state government.

It asked the court to compel the government, Education Ministry and the commissioner to pay N20 million as the general damages for the inconveniences caused as a result of the defendants’ failure to meet the contract agreement.

Alpha 1 Connexion Ltd.

also asked the court to compel the government to make use of its facilities for the proposed contract for ICT centres in the 20 local governments.

The court had several times ordered the defendants to appear before it, but each time they were served with the court order, they allegedly ignored it.

The Nation learnt that it was the continuous refusal of the defendants to appear before the court that led to the granting of the applica-

tion and subsequent issuance of a bench warrant for the arrest of the commissioner.

Counsel to Alpha 1 Connexion told The Nation that the non-appearance of the commissioner in court to defend himself, ministry and government had been on for over five months after Justice Muhammad Sambo of the High Court 6 has issued the bench warrant.

The matter was adjourned till March 29.

FCTA demolishes 656 illegal structures

HE Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), through its Development Control Department, demolished 656 illegal structures/shanties in the Federal Capital Territory between January 1 and March 9.

The FCT Minister, Senator

CONFIRMATION OF NAME This is to confirm that MARIETHERESE PETER AKPAN and MARIE-THERESE AKANINYENE PETER are one and the same person and she now wishes to be known and addressed as MRS. MARIE-THERESE AKANINYENE NANLONG. All former documents remain valid. The Nation Newspapers and the general public should please take note.

PUBLIC NOTICE LINUS

I, formerly know and addressed as Miss Linus Faith Osarieme, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Torstine Faith Osarieme. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

PUBLIC NOTICE ADEKOYA

I, formerly known and addressed as MISS MOJISOLA ABIMBOLA ADEKOYA, now wish to be known and be addressed as MRS MOJISOLA ABIMBOLA DANKUWO. All former documents remains valid. General public should take note.

From Bukola Amusan, Abuja

Bala Mohammed, who said this yesterday, added that some of the demolitions were carried out at various housing sites; Kubwa Outer Northern Expressway to make way for the Ring Road IV Project; Area 3 Garki I District; on flood plains in Garki II District of the Federal Capital City as well as Gwagwalada Satellite Town.

Mohammed, who said the FCTA embarked on the exercise to reduce the abuse of the Abuja Master Plan and enhance the beauty of the Federal Capital Territory,

directed the workers of the Development Control Department to tackle emerging challenges, as his administration is not prepared to compromise the tenets of the Abuja Master Plan.

Threatening that illegal developers in the Federal Capital Territory would face hard times, he said additional 237 Stop Work, 177 Quit and 153 demolition Notices were served during the period.

His words: “Accordingly, 224 structures during the period under review have been marked for demolition.”

The minister remarked that the FCT Administration received 293 building plans with 97 approved, while 283 setting-out applications were received with 124 approved.

The meeting was attended by the FCT Minister of State, Oloye Olajumoke Akinjide, Acting FCT Permanent Secretary, Alhaji Nuhu Ahmed, FCDA Executive Secretary, Adamu Ismaila, Chief of Staff to the FCT Minister, Alhaji Musa Umar Yashi, aides of the ministers as well as the directors of the operations department.

Cleric urges Fed Govt to fight insecurity

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HE General Overseer of Foursquare Church of Nigeria, Rev. Felix Moduoye, has called on the Federal Government to fight insecurity.

He said this at the weekend at the 30th anniversary of the church at Akowonjo, Lagos.

Moduoye decried the recent killing of an Italian and a Briton by the Boko Haram in the North.

He said the government has a role to play in the fight against insecurity.

The cleric said countries may soon mandate their citizens to stop coming to Nigeria as a re-

By Jeremiah Oke

sult of insecurity in the northern part of the country.

His words: “As far as I am concerned, the Boko Haram menace is an Islamic jihad. Historically, Muslims have attempted to overrun nations where there are Christians.

“This is Islam against Christianity.

There is also no doubt that the problem has been politicised. “

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14, 2012

59

NEWS

Fed Govt withholds allocation to local govts under emergency rule

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HE Senate is to debate a motion on the withholding of statutory allocation to the 15 local government councils that had been placed under state of emergency by the President.

The president had declared emergency in 15 local government areas in some states of the North due to the growing rate of insecurity in the areas.

Raising a point of order to that effect, Senator Ahmed Lawan (ANPP- Yobe), said it was unfair that three months after the state of emergency, the affected councils were yet to receive their allocation.

Lawan noted that this was counter productive, as it would escalate the problems in the affected local government areas.

“Today, after about three

‘The President did the right thing by respecting the Constitution by allowing the structures to remain, but witholding of funds is counter productive’ months, the 15 local government councils have not been given their statutory allocation from the Federation Account.

“The President did the right thing by respecting the Constitution by allowing the structures to remain, but witholding of funds is counter productive,” Lawan said.

He said the allocations of these local governments should be released since the emergency declaration did not affect political structures and administration of the councils.

It was unanimously agreed that the motion would be discussed on another legislative day.

The Senate yesterday also received a request from the President to confirm Mr Diogu Romanus, as member of the Federal Character Commision and Mr Peter Ezeobi as member of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).

The requests were refered to the Senate committees on Federal Character Commision and Intergovernmental Affairs and Niger Delta Development Commission.

Southwest integration worthwhile, ECOND Republic deputy governor of Ondo says Omoboriowo State Chief Akin Omo-

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boriowo yesterday welcomed the integration agenda mooted by the Southwest governors, saying that it is a right step in the right direction.

The 80-year old lawyer and politician, who authored the book: “Awoism”, said the initiative is in tune with the vision of the region’s founding fathers.

Omoboriowo also spoke briefly on why he left active politics, recalling that since the hot contest for power in 1983, he had decided to dedicate his life to spiritual endeavours.

He declined to comment on the renewed clamour for a Sovereign National Conference (SNG), saying that he held no strong view about the contentious issue.

However, he hailed the exponents of regional integra-

By Emmanuel Oladesu Deputy Political Editor

tion in the Southwest, adding that the initiative would bear good fruits.

Omoboriowo said: “I believe there is value in regional integration. There is no bad thing in the efforts they are making. The only thing is that not all the people were invited. It cannot be said that I am nobody in this area. They should have invited us. If I cannot go, I would have sent a representative. But regional integration is worthwhile”.

The former deputy governor, who spoke on the phone with our correspondent, explained that he had distanced himself from politics, not on account of sickness and weakness of the body, but because of his deep reli-

gious pursuits.

He stressed: “There are two reasons that are responsible. I have been engaged in the study of the word of God and prayers. I also preach sermons in the church and this requires time. It is a good way of using one’s time.

“Politically, I am not active, not because I am sick or weak. But I am not indifferent to what happens around me. Politicians come around and ask for my advice”.

Asked whether he would celebrate his 80th birthday elaborately this year, the Balogun of Ijero=Ekiti said: “What is required of me is humility. There will be no elaborate programme , unless my children want to do something. So, I will just go to the church and pray with my wife”.

TY Danjuma Foundation inaugurates Cassava processing plant in Ekiti

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HE Theophilus Danjuma Foundation and the Centre for Women and Children’s Development (TYDF-CWCD), yesterday inaugurated a Cassava Processing Plants in Ise Ekiti, in Ise/Orun Local Government Area of Ekiti State.

The CWCD got a grant from TYDF to build two Cassava Processing Mills in Ondo and Ekiti states.

According to a statement signed by a media aide to the wife of Ekiti State Governor, Mr Akin Oyedele, said the project will empower women and provide sources of livelihood for young girls and their families.

Church holds programme The Christian Pentecostal Mission will hold a programme, “Back to Bible” from today to Friday, at its Lagos headquarters.

Its General Overseer Rev Obiorah Ezekiel said that ‘Back to Bible’ is a return to the spiritual essence of the Bible which every Christian should manifest in his or her daily life. He enjoined all to attend the “soul-enriching programme”.

From Sulaiman Salawudeen, Ado-Ekiti

The statement reads: “It is envisaged that the new mills will reduce the physical stress women have been going through using the traditional cassava processing methods, which are tedious and time-consuming.

“It is also expected that the mills will increase the productivity of these women, boost their income generation capacities and enhance their ability to feed their families, the immediate community and eventually form the nucleus for export of the garri product made in Ondo and Ekiti states.”

Niger Delta groups flay Boko Haram

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WO groups, United Niger Delta Energy Development and Security Strategy (UNDESS) and Coalition of Niger Delta Ethnic Nationalities have flayed members of Boko Haram sect over its alleged threat to sack Christians from the North, saying that, constitutionally, Nigeria still remains a secular state.

The groups urged responsible leaders and men of goodwill in the North to persuade the sect to desist from the “inglorious mission”, warning that the islamisation of the country is illusory.

UNDEDS General Secretary Tony Uranta, who spoke on behalf of the groups, emphasised that the sect’s sporadic bombings have lent credence to the repeated clamour

By Emmanuel Oladesu, Deputy Political Editor

for a Sovereign National Conference (SNG), which proper goal has been misinterpreted by some leaders.

He said: “Even, the legitimate bid by Boko Haram not to be forced to have western style of life can only be peacefully accomodated in a new Nigeria heralded by a Peoples National Conference and Peoples Constitution. The Boko Haram is the biggest threat to Nigeria’s unity today. But I know they will listen to northern leaders”.

Uranta lamented that certain leaders were actually motivating the sect and distracting attention by insinuating that bombings were resistance to national conference.

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THE NATION WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14, 2012

NEWS Tambuwal challenges NBA From Victor Oluwasegun and Dele Anofi, Abuja

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OUSE Speaker Aminu Tambuwal yesterday challenged the Nigeria Bar Association (NBA) to lead the advocacy for legislation by other countries that will prohibit receipts of illgotten wealth from developing countries.

Tambuwal spoke when the NBA leadership, led by its National President, Joseph Daudu (SAN), visited him.

According to the Speaker, there is the need for a legal machinery to discourage the looting of public funds, adding that looters of national treasury would be discouraged to steal public fund when they have nowhere to stash such ill-gotten wealth.

Oni takes Fayemi to Supreme Court From Sulaiman Salawudeen, Ado-Ekiti

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XACTLY two weeks after the Court of Appeal in Ado Ekiti dismissed his suit against the October 15, 2010 judgment that sacked him from office as governor, Mr. Segun Oni yesterday filed an appeal against the ruling at the Suprreme Court.

A five-man panel of judges presided over by Justice Tijani Abdullahi on February 27unanimously dismissed Oni’s application, seeking the review of the Appeal Court judgment that ousted him from office and replaced him with Dr. Kayode Fayemi of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN).

The Appeal Court had ruled: “It follows therefore that where there is an allegation of bias in a matter that has been determined to finality, this court cannot exercise its jurisdiction in favour of the applicant.

But dissatisfied with the decision, Oni in the appeal filed by his counsel, Prof Ben Nwabueze (SAN), raised five grounds upon which he was challenging the judgment.

PDP candidates for debate

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SPIRANTS vying for the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) National chairman are to participate in a debate to give members the opportunity to assess them.

The debate is organised by an interest group under the aegis of Project 20 million. It is in conjunction with the PDP Restoration Group.

The PDP National Convention where new national officers will be elected is slated for March 24 in Abuja .

The convener of the debate, Mr. Chukwunyere Ikechukwu, said the debate will hold on March 18 as part of the efforts aimed at strengthening democratic tenet in the country and to encourage genuine internal democracy within political parties”.

He said security would be guaranteed at the Abuja Sheraton Hotel venue, adding that the debate will be live on television.

Some of the candidates are Alhaji Bamanga Tukur, Dr. Hassan Adamu, Prof Jibril Aminu, Amb. Idris Waziri, Dr. Shettima Mustapha, Alhaji Gambo Lawan, Alhaji Adamu Mu’azu and Senator Danjuma Goje

Fashola, hundreds of passengers in dramatic air return from Abuja

Court returns Chinese woman to prison

•Outage hits Airport again

FEDERAL High Court in Lagos yesterday ordered that a Chinese woman, Liang Zuli being held for allegedly trading in banned animal parts, be remanded again in prison.

By the court’s order, she is to remain in prison until next Monday when her bail application would be heard.

The Chinese was arraigned last week before Justice Okechukwu Okeke on a two-count charge filed by the office of the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF).

She pleaded not guilty to the charge of unlawful possession and attempted export of banned worked ivory. The court consequently ordered that she be remanded in prison and fixed yesterday for the hearing of her bail application.

The scheduled hearing of the bail application was averted yesterday when the lead prosecution lawyer, Bola Odugbesan sought time to enable him argue his counter affidavit to the bail application. He said it was the position of the prosecution insisting that the accused should not be granted bail in view of the severity of the alleged offence.

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OWER outage last night prevented aircraft from landing at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja. A similar incident occurred barely a week ago.

It was learnt that Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola was among the passengers.

There were also chieftains of the Action Congress of Nigeria (AC N) travelling to Abuja for a party’s meeting.

They returned to Lagos.

It was gathered that Air Traffic Controllers stopped landing by any aircraft from about 6.30pm when visibility became poor due to the outage on the tarmac.

An aviation source, who spoke with our correspondent at about 10.15pm, said: “We had outage challenge again at the airport but our electrical engineers are trying to address it. The power situation is on and off.

“I think since 7pm, no aircraft has been able to land. We are only praying that there will be no emergency.

Another source at the airport said: “It is true we are having outage challenge at

From Yusuf Alli, Managing Editor, Northern Operation

the tarmac and many aircraft could not land. As the situation improves, we are expecting a Lufthansa flight any moment from now.

“Technically, the outage has to do with Airfield Lighting.

None of the AFL is working this night at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Airport. But we are trying to rectify it.

“The management of AFL was recently transferred to the National Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) and the transition process is having some technical teething problems.”

Another source at the airport said: “Since last week, we sent Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) about the problem with Airfield Lighting in Abuja which might take three weeks to correct. So, all airlines were in the picture.

“Although NOTAM is expected to take effect from 11pm to 5am daily, the AFL had problem since 7pm on

Tuesday.

“Outage is a general problem beyond our control. Although we have a dedicated power line. it has its own challenges.

“As I am talking to you, this Airport consumes about 33,000 litres of diesel per week. There is no way the Federal Airport Authority or any aviation agency could pass on the cost to passengers and other airport users.

“If we pass on the cost, there will be protest from passengers and other users “Also, over dependence on generating set has its own technical implications.

But one of those stranded at the airport while awaiting some relations said: “This is embarrassing because even in war-torn countries, airports function optimally.

This is shameful.”

When a key aide of the Minister of Aviation, Mrs. Stella Oduah, was contacted, he promised to get back but he never did.

The Minister of Power, Prof. Barth Nnaji blamed the outage at the airport last Thursday on the malfunctioning of a generating set.

The minister gave the clarification after conducting an investigation into the outage when a British Airways flight from London was about to land.

The minister absolved the Abuja Electricity Power Distribution Company, the Transmission Company of Nigeria, TCN, and the Power Holding Company of Nigeria, PHCN of blame.

He said the power failure was not caused directly or indirectly by any of them, since there was electricity supply to the dedicated airport lines.

A statement by the minister’s aide, Mr. Ogbuagu Anikwe, read: “The ministerial investigation into the power failure at the airport has shown that the incident arose from the failure or inability of the generators at the airport to produce power at the time the British Airways airliner was about to touch down.”

Ogun ‘didn’t blame Presidency for late delivery of APC’s’

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HE Ogun State Government yesterday denied reports that it blamed the Presidency for the late delivery of the Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs) it ordered.

Its Information and Strategy Commissioner Yusuph Olaniyonu said in a statement that the state has no cause to blame either President Goodluck Jonathan or officials of the Federal Government for the delayed arrival of the crime fighting tools.

The statement reads: “The attention of the Ogun State government has been drawn to a news story published in a few national newspapers which purportedly claims that the State Government is blaming the Presidency for the delay in the arrival of the Armoured Personnel Carriers (APC) it ordered as part of measures aimed at tackling the security challenges in the state.

The news story was said to have been generated from the statements made by the State Commissioner for Finance, Mrs. Kemi Adeosun, during her meeting with members of the Ogun State Bankers’ Committee on Monday. However, the story was a clear misrepresentation of the explanations made by Mrs Adeosun during the meeting. That is why the version of the story published by Independent, National Mirror and Vanguard newspapers is completely different from the correct interpretation contained in another newspaper published the same day.

“We want to state unequivocally that the Ogun State Government and its officials have no reason to blame either President Goodluck Jonathan or any official of the Federal Government for the delay in the delivery of the APCs. Rather, we have all reasons to thank President Jonathan and other senior officials of the Presidency for fast-tracking the process to ensure that we get the necessary security clearances and even, duty waivers.

We are happy to confirm that President Jonathan and other officials of the Federal Government facilitated our ability to get all the necessary clearances.

“Apart from the issue of the APCs and other security equipment which we imported, President Jonathan has been of tremendous assistance to the Government and the good People of Ogun State. For example, our State is the only state the President has visited three times to commission different projects in the last seven months.

Also, President Jonathan graciously approved our request for soldiers from the 31 Infantry Brigade, Alamala Barracks in Abeokuta to be deployed as part of our Joint Police-Military Task Force code-named “Operation Mesa”.

Again, When Governor Ibikunle Amosun complained about the poor attention being given to the Lagos-Ibadan and Sagamu - Benin Expressways, the President graciously agreed to review the concession agreements and partner with the affected states. There are other instances where President Jonathan’s positive interventions had been very useful to us in Ogun State.

“Finally, Ogun State enjoys excellent relationship with the Federal Government under President Jonathan and we value that relationship.

By Okwy Iroegbu Chikezie

A

Police test-run operational uniform From Gbade Ogunwale, Assistant Editor, Abuja

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•Abubakar in the outfit ...yesterday

HE Police have launched an operational camouflage uniform.

The Acting Inspector General of Police, Mr. Mohammed Abubakar wore the new uniform yesterday.

A statement by Force Public Relations Officer, Olusola Amore, said President Goodluck Jonathan has approved the uniform.

The statement added that the uniform was acquired in line with the Transformation Agenda of the Federal Government and the “desire of the police management team to reform and to launder an acceptable image for the police through the turnout of its officers and men.”

He added: “The camouflage comes in a admixture of black, white and grey colours, with some inherent advantages when fully integrated and confirmed as one of the official police outfits.”

According to Amore, the advantages of the new uniform include: cost effectiveness, operational durability, environmental friendliness and in-built security features to forestall impersonation.

Amore said: “The Police boss is using this medium to call on the general public to come up with constructive criticisms regarding the new police camouflage for public opinion to be given adequate consideration.”

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14, 2012

61

FOREIGN NEWS

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Syria unrest: Arab League calls for neutral enquiry

HE Arab League has called for a “neutral international investigation” into crimes conducted during the Syrian government’s crackdown on antiregime protesters.

League chief Nabil al-Arabi said the “horrendous elimination” of entire families could be described as crimes against humanity.

The United Nations estimates some 8,000 people have died in the year-long uprising.

Human Rights Watch says the regime is now laying landmines along its borders.

The group called on Syria to immediately cease laying mines, calling them “militarily ineffective” weapons that will kill and injure mostly civilians for years to come.

The BBC’s correspondent in Hatay on the Turkish side of the border with Syria, says

he has seen refugees arrive who have lost limbs because of the mines.

He says the refugee camp at Hatay, run by the Turkish Red Crescent, is receiving up to 200 refugees a day as they flee the army assault on the city of Idlib and surrounding villages just across the border in Syria.

The regime’s forces have stepped up their assault on rebellious strongholds in the past two months.

They launched a ground assault on the Baba Amr district of the city of Homs last month, after weeks of shelling.

Around 100 to 200 people a day are crossing the border, bringing with them harrowing stories of their escape. The Syrian army has been besieging the city of Idlib, not far across the border from here, for the past three days.

No rush for Afghan exit, says Obama

•Obama

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NITED States President Barack Obama has promised that international forces will not “rush for the exits” in Afghanistan, after

an American soldier was accused of murdering 16 civilians.

Mr Obama said foreign troops must be withdrawn in a responsible way.

The killings in Kandahar province have strained relations between Afghans and foreign forces.

US Defence Secretary Leon Panetta says the suspect could face the death penalty, if found guilty.

Mr Panetta said the intention was to try the case in a US military court.

Asked whether the soldier, who gave himself up, had

confessed to the alleged crimes, the US Defence Secretary said: “I suspect that that was the case.”

Yesterday morning, some 600 students took part in a rally in the eastern city of Jalalabad, condemning the attack and chanting “Death to America! Death to Obama!”.

There are also reports of protesters gathering in Kandahar.

The Taliban has renewed threats of revenge attacks, saying it would behead “sadistic” American soldiers.

32 dead in Bangladesh boat mishap

A

T least 32 people have died and scores are missing after a ferry with some 200 people on board sank in a southern Bangladeshi river, police say.

About 50 people swam to safety after the accident in the Meghna River, South-West of the capital Dhaka. Divers have recovered the bodies of 32 people.

The Shariatpur-1 capsized after colliding with a small oil tanker.

Ferry accidents are common on Bangladesh’s vast river network and scores are killed every year.

Hundreds of people, including some desperate relatives, gathered on the river banks during the rescue operation as bodies were extracted from the water.

Police fear more bodies could be trapped inside the vessel, which passengers said sank

rapidly after the collision.

Correspondents say it is not possible to say exactly how many people were on board, because passenger lists are rarely compiled on Bangladeshi ferries and many buy their tickets when on board.

It is an extremely distressing scene at the rescue operation as night closes in.

Practically every time rescue divers return to the surface they bring with them a dead body, which is then taken to the shore and placed before a grief-stricken and wailing crowd of hundreds that has congregated on the river bank.

It looks as if the sheer scale of this disaster may have overwhelmed the authorities.

A crane deployed to lift the stricken vessel out of the river has proved not up to the task, and frantic efforts are now underway to use boats to tow it from the bottom.

South Sudan cattle raid deaths up

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HE number of people killed in South Sudan in the latest of a series of cattle raids has risen to more than 200, officials have told the British Broadcasting Corporation.

Jonglei state governor Kuol Manyang said at least 223 people had been confirmed dead.

Hundreds more - including many women and children are believed to be wounded or missing.

Cattle raids and revenge attacks have killed thousands of people in South Sudan since independence in 2011.

The BBC correspondent in Khartoum says the fighting involved rival groups from Jonglei state, who clashed over the border in Upper Nile state.

Young men from the Murle ethnic group stormed several camps, where the rival Lou Nuer community had taken their cattle, several sources told the BBC.

Thousands of cattle are also reported to have been stolen in the raids, which targeted eight areas north of the town of Akobo.

Many of the wounded are being sent on a boat ride of several hours to the hospital in Akobo.

Aid organisation Plan International says it is concerned about the impact on children, pointing out many have been kidnapped in past raids.

US drone strikes kill 15 in Pakistan

U

NITED States drone aircraft struck twice in Pakistan’s unruly tribal regions along the border with Afghanistan yesterday, killing 15 suspected militants, including two senior militant commanders, security and intelligence officials said.

In the first strike, a drone fired missiles at a vehicle in the Birmal area of the South Waziristan tribal region, killing eight.

Among the dead were Shams Ullah and Amir Hamza, senior commanders of a progovernment militant faction led by Maulvi Nazir, one of the most influential militant leaders in the region.

Seven suspected militants were killed in the second attack later in the day, when a drone

fired missiles at a vehicle in the Sara Khawra area, which straddles the border between North Waziristan and South Waziristan.

Several militant groups, including the Afghan Taliban and al Qaeda, operate in Pakistan’s semi-autonomous border regions, taking advantage of a porous border with Afghanistan to conduct cross-border attacks or plot violence elsewhere.

The usually unacknowledged Central Intelligence Agency’s drone program, an important element of the US counter-terrorism strategy in the region, appeared to have been halted after a NATO cross-border air attack killed 24 Pakistani soldiers last November, sparking fury in Pakistan.

62

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14, 2012

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14, 2012

63

SPORT EXTRA 18TH NATIONAL SPORTS FESTIVAL

Lagos releases list of sub-committees

A

S preparations hot up for the 18th National Sports Festival, tagged “Eko 2012” the Lagos State Government has released a list of sub-committee members.

According to a release made available to NationSport, the Deputy Governor , who also doubles as Chairman of the Local Organizing Committee (LOC), Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire yesterday made the list public at the state’s secretariat, Alausa, Ikeja.

The statement further stated that the early constitution of the subcommittee has become necessary to facilitate early preparation and readiness of Lagos State to put up a spectacle of a show where the rules guiding the Festival would be strictly adhered to.

The Sub-Committees includes, Medical with Olajide Idris as the Chairman and Ifeoluwa Ogunlaja as the Secretary; others are Transportation and Traffic Control chaired by Kayode Opeifa and Omoua Alonge Oni-Okpaku as Secretary.

Also constituted are, Protocol and Ceremonial Committees Chaired

by Disun Holloway and Peter Bolumole as the Secretary; Accommodation/Welfare chaired

by Erelu Angela Adebayo and Uthman Ola Okunnu as Secretary.

Others include, Catering/Feeding chaired by Olusegun Dawodu and Oluyomi Oluwasanmi as Secretary; Security Sub-Committee is chaired by ACP Vincent Brown and Dele Adeniran as Secretary; Media and Publicity is chaired by Wale Edun and Olumide Filade will serve as Secretary; Marketing and Sponsorship Sub-Committee is Chaired by Chief Molade OkoyaThomas (CON) and Abiola Aregbesola as Secretary.

While Venues and Facilities is chaired by Chief Ademola Seriki and Waheed Adelekan will serve as the Secretary, Kweku Tandoh concluded that all members of the various Sub-committees would soon be issued with letters intimating them about their membership so that work can begin in earnest.

•A delegation of American Football in Nigeria led by Chicago Bears players Amobi Okoye at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos PHOTO: Solomon Adeola

Nigerian Army pays tributes to Adefope •Ex- IOC chief for burial March 30

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HE Nigeria Army, led by the Commander of the Army Medical Corp , Bonny Camp, Major General S.A Ameh yesterday pay a condolence visit to the family of late Major General Henry Adefope.

The army team which included two Brigadier Generals and three colonels arrived the Opebi residence of the deceased few minutes to 5: pm dressed in the usual army uniform, condoled with the family of the departed GeneraL According to the spokesman of the family, Curwen Nedd, the essence of the visit was to discuss the burial arrangement in-line with the tradition of the military.

Efforts to get the delegation to speak on the plans of the army as regards the burial arrangement proved abortive as they declined comments.

The late Adefope who passed away on Sunday at the age of 84 served in the Nigerian army and also as a foreign affairs minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

He also served as Minister of sports and Labour in the 1970s.

Meanwhile, according to the family spokeman, the burial plans for the late General will commence March 29, 2012 by 5:00pm at Anglican Church of the Ascension Opebi Lagos with Service of Songs This, he said will be followed

By Paul Oluwakoya by the funeral service at the same church March 30, 2012 by 11:00am. While Outing Servicewill be 1st April at the same church by 10:00am.

The late Adefope who served as the Church Warden was also said to be the founder of the same church.

Meanwhile, as friends and family members continue to throng the Opebi residence of the sports administrator and Elder statesman, the children of the deceased have revealed plans to establish a sports

foundation in memory of their departed father later in the year.

The proposed sports foundation to be named ‘Henry and Donothy Adefope Foundation for sports and Youth Development’ is to be established on the piece of land donated by King Onagoruwa Adedeji of Odogbolu kingdom in Ogun state.

Making this exclusively known to NationSport was the spokesman of the family, Curwen Nedd, who further revealed that the essence of the foundation was to leave

behind a legacy that will last long and help fulfill the hopes and aspirations of the departed sport minister.

“The foundation is to promote the late minister’s passion for promoting sport in the country” he said.

According to Nedd “The greatest achievement of the former President of the Nigeria Olympic Committee and a long –standing member of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) was when he brought the all African Games to Nigeria.”

RESULTS UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE Bayern Munich 7-0 Basel Inter Milan 2-1 Marseille

•Folake Adefope Nedd and Major-General S.A Ameh, Commander of the Army Medical Corps , Bonny Camp during the condolence visit ...yesterday

www.thenationonlineng.net

TOMORROW IN THE NATION

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14, 2012 TRUTH IN DEFENCE OF FREEDOM

‘We should avoid any universal or homogenised system of government especially dictated by the West. The Arab spring may yet fail because the environment is hostile and unfriendly’ VOL.7 NO.2064

COMMENT & DEB ATE EBA

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AST week’s column on the subject above predictably provoked angry responses.

As usual some were reasonable, the vast majority were downright abusive. I thought I should share some of the more reasonable ones with the public because, in spite of the strong language of some of these more reasonable ones, they contain some food for thought for us all, whatever we think of the late ex-rebel leader.

Sir, Your article on “Ojukwu: The man died but his spirit lives on,” is nothing but the ranting of a selfish man attempting to whittle down the influence of an ‘enigma’ of Igbo extraction that cannot be equated with any Northern leader dead or alive. Try as you did, Ojukwu remains the greatest African leader ever.

Emmanuel Onwuka mailpabrown@yahoo.co.uk Sir, Why, Mohammed Haruna (and Northern Nigeria), are you always on the edge about Nigeria breaking up; always palpitating about losing your life support and withering off?

Why must your existence depend on another, either by his choice or by force? Why carry with you the unfortunate fate of your existence being based on falsehood, and therefore always afraid of the truth being told? I think it is a cursed existence! Such a life is not meant to be, since it is dependent on a condition that will not always be.

Like cowards, imbeciles and loafers that you are, you keep dying several times over before your actual death. I bet that even if the oil is to be transferred to the North, or Igbos are to be transferred to the North and Northerners to Igboland, you will still start begging for Nigeria because of the development you will see Igbos put on Northern soil. If not for your worthlessness and wretched life, it should be Igbos who should be begging for Nigeria.

You are not ashamed that with a vast, arable landmass the size of several countries put together, which, apart from multiple other mineral deposits and economic potentials should be enough to feed entire Africa, you are still struggling for oil whose lifespan cannot exceed the next 35 years. I wish indeed that Nigeria does not break up so that Igbos in particular and the South as a whole do not lose a claim to that wealth so limitless but which your stunted mind is incapable of actualising.

You are not ashamed that at a time when the Southwest has been forced by your reluctance to accept a SNC to establish a plan for regional integration and do away with oil, you are on the pages of newspapers fretting and crying over unity in order to be guaranteed oil.

Igbos have been infested and cursed with the mediocrity of the North because of Lugard, but it is a curse that will not always last! Get away, you coward!

Nnamdi Ojike nnamdiojike@yahoo.com Sir, Thank you very much for penning for us such a wonderful article. I had a good read.

Since the time Ojukwu died, I hadn’t read any

People and Politics By MOHAMMED HARUNA ndajika@yahoo.com

Re: Ojukwu: The man died but his spirit lives on

•The late Ojukwu

article on him, not because I didn’t come across any but because I know almost all the articles will depict him as a saint when he was the brain behind the only civil war Nigeria had. Even our own people are talking about him as if he was one of the best Nigeria ever had. May Allah give you the ability to respond to the bigots who are going to comment on this because there sure are going to be a lot of them.

Muhsin Galadanci mgaladanci@yahoo.com Sir, I am quite amazed that 42 years after the war ended you are still stoking this blame game against Ojukwu as the cause of the civil war. I believe that the civil war is a tragic event that we must be dispassionate about.

There was nobody in Ojukwu’s position who could have acted otherwise given the genocide against the Igbo. There is no way you can tell me that political leaders/military leaders in the North risked their lives to stop the killings.

The political/military leaders in Rwanda who looked the other way when Tutsis and moderate Hutus were massacred are now cooling their heels in the coldest section of jails. It is not sufficient to stop killings but genociders must be brought to justice and how many of them were brought to justice to convince Ojukwu that there was no need to opt out of the Nigerian arrangement?

Again, Ojukwu exhausted all avenues to

settle the matter but the Federal Government reneged on the Aburi Accord that could have prevented the war.

We must strive to build a modern country. Nobody should see a part of a country as a vassal of the other. Citizens must have rights and be protected wherever they are and you will agree with me that there is no community in this country that you will not find an Igbo. So, the Nigerianness of the Igbo surpasses that of any Nigerian.

I am an Igbo and a proud Nigerian at that. But if am not protected outside the predominantly Igbo speaking area, I have every tendency to go home and support anybody who will protect me. It is natural and the first law of survival.

The problem we have in Nigeria is that the elites must strive to give justice to all citizens so that everybody will have a stake in this wonderful project called Nigeria. This will elicit support from every citizen and nobody will be craving for a utopia due to frustration.

You must be aware that there have been two referenda in Canada requesting residents of the province of Quebec “whether they prefer to separate from Canada?’’ But on every occasion the majority was always an emphatic NO. They always say that they are better being Canadians but they would need more autonomy due to their uniqueness.

So, Ojukwu sought for autonomy not separation as some people actually believe.

Finally, this blame game should be over by now and we should find ways to resolve the injustice that precipitated the civil war that is still with us today and given birth to Odua Peoples Congress, MEND, MASSOB and the Boko Haram.

Major James Eze molareve@yahoo.com Sir, I can best describe your article with the above title an attempt to distort facts to suit your propaganda agenda.

In your recount of the event leading to the civil war as told you by one Malam Magaji(Hisstory) I searched hard to see or read(even in between lines) in your account what happened to the soldiers when they finally laid down their arms.

So many versions of events leading to the civil war has been told by the victims, the op-

HARDBALL

B

Y 2011, many Nigerians had begun to realise that the Boko Haram insurrection ravaging the northern parts of the country was capable of threatening the stability of Nigeria. Early this year, as attacks multiplied and became undiscriminating, the country, not just the North, suddenly entered panic mode. This may be why a coalition of concerned northern leaders early this week divided itself into committees to tackle the problems of the region. While the northern coalition convened by Dr Junaid Mohammed has appeared to appreciate that the threat to peace was becoming ominously unmanageable, and that the situation requires urgent remedies, the Goodluck Jonathan government, the quintessential struthio camelus, gives the alarming impression it has run out of initiatives in pacifying Nigeria’s restive regions, particularly the Northeast and, increasingly, the Northwest.

JIDE OSUNTOKUN

pressors and the ‘bystanders’ and in all these recounts, a fact that hasn’t been distorted or changed is the reason for the war in the first place. I can’t begrudge your personal opinions of the Ikemba, because in your analysis you just came short of calling him a man who hungered for power.

I am sure you realise that if the situations ever presented themselves again and roles reversed (as in the North being the victims this time) nobody will blame it for wanting to secede. Boko Haram took a whole new dimension for a lesser reason than massacre of an entire race. The war was fought and lost and we have healed from the scars of that sad period in our country’s history but trying to resurrect any document to push blames 45years later is not learning from the past to guide against the future.

Babangida Aliyu isn’t telling us anything new, even though I suspect his statements are political investment against 2015.

As an individual with a famous weekly column in two newspapers what have you done on a personal capacity to improve the decadence, corruption and illiteracy level in the North other than blaming Jonathan for all your woes?

Ikemba has played his part, and I am sure posterity will be fair to him in judging him.

What have you done, Haruna? How will you be remembered? As a man who blamed the South for underdeveloping the North? Time is ticking, brother.

Arc Charlie Amankwe (Ogbunuiko Ikelionwu) Sir. Please I wish to know is Ojukwu’s state burial as result of his being an ex-warlord or as a former senior army officer?

Umar Idris umaridris 17@yahoo.com First, Ojukwu’s burial was not a state burial as the rare 21-gun salute would suggest. The central element of a state burial, I am told, is the national flag flying at half mast, an element which was missing during his burial. Instead he was buried as an officer of the Nigerian army whose commission had been restored long ago.

However, contrary to the claims by several newspapers and by even many otherwise well informed writers, he was buried not as a general but as a Lieutenant-Colonel, the last rank he wore before he declared his rebellion and the rank he was paid his pension as. His pall bearers were Colonels, all right, but the discerning observer of his burial ceremony would have noticed that the ceremonial cap on his casket was that of a Lieutenant-Colonel.

Sir, Ojukwu’s rebellion ended 42 years ago not the 22 years you inadvertently stated in your last paragraph.

Muhammad Tukur Jibril kalelemuhammad@gmail.com It was indeed inadvertent and I stand corrected.

•For comments, send SMS to 08054502909

•Hardball is not the opinion of the columnist featured above

Nigeria’s elegant ostriches (Struthio camelus) This newspaper yesterday observed that the federal government loved to rule through the instrumentality of committees.

This is a culture now adopted, perhaps instinctively, by the Junaid group of northern leaders. Many other groups may soon embrace the same tactics. For now, however, the government has spurned every suggestion of firmness and innovation in tackling the lurch towards chaos. Being naturally conservative, and even sometimes reactionary, the Jonathan presidency has shown an unfathomable fear of the unknown, especially when that unknown appears to imply a radical and futuristic rearrangement of both the structure and principles of government in Nigeria.

The Jonathan government’s approach to

curbing the Boko Haram menace, the clearest and most pernicious threat to peace and security in Nigeria today, is to make a plaintive call for dialogue. Neither the president nor anyone else saddled with the task of subduing the leading and splintered terror group in the country has persuaded Nigerians it knows the group’s real and ultimate objectives. Is it essentially a socio-economic revolt, or is it at bottom, as other analysts say, a pan-regional religious movement riding on the back of terror to establish a theocracy cutting across many West African countries?

Whatever Boko Haram’s real objectives are, the task now is to identify the best ways of fighting the terror group. Some have suggested a national conference, whether sovereign or not. The government, like the north-

ern coalition, seems enamoured of tinkering with the problem with committees and palliatives. But the last thing the perilous situation the country has found itself today needs is a tinkerer or palliatives manager.

The times require profound leadership imagination, firmness that is at once plain and mystical, and radical change. It will take a firm, imaginative and radical man who has the heart of a lion and the head of an implacable democrat to arrest the drift. This column can find no such man anywhere near the corridors of power. What he finds are dithering bureaucrats and pusillanimous ostriches burying their heads in the sand as hundreds die weekly, slain by their fanatical compatriots, even as large swathes of the country gradually slip into ungovernable and unremitting anarchy.

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