The Nation November 18, 2014

Nigeria’s widest circulating newspaper

Oyo landlords get compensation NEWS

Page 10

•Ajimobi gives 235 cheques

News ‘35 of 1,000 babies die in Kwara’ P54 Sports Echiejile: we’ll beat South Africa P41 Business Dormant phone lines now 46.6m P11 •www.thenationonlineng.net

VOL. 9, NO. 3036 TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2014

TR UTH IN DEFENCE OF FREEDOM TRUTH

N150.00

•INSIDE: JONATHAN EXTENDS STATE OF EMERGENCY P4 EBOLA PATIENT DIES IN U.S. P60

Anger as 7 PDP lawmakers endorse Fayose’s nominees Three strange men join House ‘sitting’ Governor sacks aides of Speaker, others

U

NDER police cover and emboldened by a band of thugs, seven Ekiti Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) lawmakers “sat” yesterday to approve three commissioner-nomi-

nees presented by Governor Ayodele Fayose.

The action drew outrage.

The lawmakers also empowered Fayose to appoint 12 special advisers and constitute caretaker committees for the 16

The Nation reporter kidnapped in Abia

The quorum is nine and we had 10 members who attended the sitting...That shows that we formed a quorum...

—PDP caucus leader From Odunayo Ogunmola, Ado-Ekiti

local governments, pending the conduct of the local government election.

The seven PDP legislators were joined by three individuals whose identities could not be ascertained, in a bid to surpass a quorum of nine mem-

Fayose provided seven members of PDP with 300 armed mobile policemen, complete with armoured vehicles, to conduct a plenary —Speaker

bers needed to carry out a valid sitting of the House as stipulated by the Constitution and the Assembly’s Standing Rules.

Reporters were not allowed to go inside the chamber with cameras.

The electronic media were prevented from covering the

“sitting” - apparently to shield the three “unknown legislators”.

The “sitting” was conducted under a massive security cover provided by mobile policemen and operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS).

A police Armoured Person-

nel Carrier marked NPF 5907 C and police pick-up vans were stationed outside the parliamentary building throughout the “sitting”.

After the strange sitting, the nominees and the lawmakers were ferried into the Government House in a Toyota Coaster bus marked EKGH 111 with a massive security cordon woven around them.

Fayose, in a letter dated November 11, which was addressed to the Speaker, requested the approval of the Assembly for the constituContinued on page 4

•Regional Editor O’Neil, others relive experience

U

From Sunny Nwankwo, Aba

NKNOWN gunmen have abducted Mr. Ugochukwu Ugorji-Eke, The Nation’s Umuahia, Abia State correspon-

dent.

Ugorji-Eke was abducted at about 7:30 pm on Sunday as he drove home in his car.

His abductors were waiting for him in front of his house behind Toengine Crescent, off

Ovom Road, Ogbor Hill, Aba. An eyewitness spoke of how the gunmen forced the reporter into car and sped off. His SEE ALSO their car was abandoned at his

PAGE 7

?

•Ugorji-Eke

Continued on page 4

•O’Neil

WILL THE CHIBOK GIRLS KIDNAPPED ON APRIL 15 EVER RETURN?

•A THOUGHT FOR THE SLAIN KIDS: Parents in a peaceful protest against the bombing of schools and killing of pupils at the Government Science Secondary School, Potiskum, Yobe State in Abuja...yesterday.

PHOTO: ABAYOMI FAYESE

INEC’s voter cards crises go on in Lagos, Edo, Kano, others STORY ON PAGE 4

Fears of voting rights loss rise among would-be voters

•TRANSPORTATION P16 •POLITICS P8 •SPORTS P24 •ENERGY P48 •PROPERTY P50

THE NATION TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2014

2

NEWS

Sliding oil prices: A

•Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola, SAN (second right) interacting with members of the audience after making his presentation titled: "Lagos Urban Experience”, at the “Urban Age Conference: Governing Urban Futures” organised by the London School of Economics and Political Science in conjunction with the Alfred Herrhausen Society: The International Forum of Deutsche Bank, at the Hyatt Regency, New Delhi, India...last Saturday.

To say what Nigeria fears most is happening, may be an apt description of the effect of the slide of global crude oil price. It has put everyone on edge.

However, operators believe it is an opportunity for economic turnaround, Group Business Editor, SIMEON EBULU reports.

I

•Senator Oluremi Tinubu (second left) submitting her Expression of Interest Form for the Senate to the All Progressives Congress’ (APC) Lagos State Chairman, Chief Henry Ajomale, at the APC Secretariat, Ogba,Lagos. With them from left are: Alhaji Mutiu Are and Mr Fuad Oki.

•From left: Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Lead Capital Prince Abimbola Olashore; Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Chams Plc Sir Demola Aladekomo; and Vice Chancellor, Joseph Ayo Babalola University (JABU), Prof. Sola Fajana, during the Second Oladele Olashore Memorial Lecture at the university, Ikeji-Arakeji , Osun State.

•From left: First Vice President, New Economic Partnership for Africa Development (NEPAD) Business Group, Dr. Nike Akande; Minister for Agriculture and Rural Development Dr. Akinwunmi Adesina; and Special Adviser to the President on NEPAD, Ambassador Fidelia Njeze, at the Second Nigeria Rice Investment Forum in Abuja...yesterday.

PHOTO: ABAYOMI FAYESE

T was about a month ago, at the International Monetary Fund (IMF)/World Bank Conference in Washington DC, United States (U.S.), that the effect of the slide in oil prices on the global economy first came into the fore. The International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD), an agency of the World Bank, foreseeing the negative impact of the global slide in crude prices on oil dependent countries, called for proactive actions to be taken to avoid any untoward effect, or at least mitigate it, especially on countries that are heavily dependent on oil.

The Minister of Finance and the Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, who was present at the meeting - herself being a one-time Managing Director of the World Bank - admitted that the falling oil prices would impact negatively on the nation’s economy. She nevertheless sounded confident that measures were already being adopted to cushion the anticipated effects.

Dr. Okonjo-Iweala said in line with the IMF/World Bank prompting, Nigeria would strengthened the existing measures already in place, one of which was to build up the buffers, by increasing savings on the Excess Crude Account (ECA) as well as embarking on other budgetary savings to ensure that the country did not resort to excessive borrowings in the course of implementing the national budget.

Several weeks after Mrs. OkonjoIweala spoke in such reassuring tone, in the expectation that the slide in crude prices would abate, the trend is continuing on the same trajectory.

The fall, as it were, has come so close to the budgetary oil crude benchmark of $78 for the 2015 national budget, prompting its downward review.

As the minister argued in her statement two days ago, “as part of the response, the Medium Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) and the 2015 Budget proposal to the National Assembly have been revised. As a result, the Federal Government will be proposing a benchmark of $73 per barrel to the National Assembly compared to the earlier proposed benchmark of $78”.

For a country like Nigeria that relies largely on oil (over 85 per cent) as its major source of revenue, the effects of the falling oil price, if it lingers, will be punitive and widespread. The government’s measured response, encapsulated in the minister’s presentation, have said that much. And it should elicit concern, on the one hand, and on the other hand, serve as a wake-up call for the nation to seriously refocus its action in favour of calls for the diversifica-

•Jonathan

tion of the economy.

This shift is even more urgent now, as Mrs. Okonjo-Iweala has already admitted, given the complexity and the international geo-politics surrounding the oil industry.

Her words: “The drop in oil prices is a serious challenge, which we must confront as a country. We must be prepared to make sacrifices where necessary.” She could not have put it any better, or more seriously.

Nonetheless, this is the time to draw the line between being serious and taking action, and not dwell on sophistry. The economy, even at the best of times, has been tottering. It is a matter of conjecture what the future holds for Nigeria.

One obvious effect of this development would be the shortfall of money available to the states and local governments when they meet to share the monthly federal allocations. There will be issues when there won’t be money from the Excess Crude Account to augment expected shortfalls from the federal allocations.

It is also envisaged that payment of salaries at the other tiers of government may be affected since they depend mainly on federal allocations.

Also, the nation’s external reserves may experience some downturn since its build-up may stagnate from dwindling revenues.

Be that as it may, the minister has assured of a rebound in the economy, if the country capitalise on other advantages, inherent in the economy.

“We should also not forget that we retain some important advantages, such as a broad economic base driven by the private sector and anchored on sound policies. Our strategy is to continue to strengthen the sectors that drive growth, such as agriculture and housing, while reducing waste with a renewed focus on prudence”, she stressed She explained that even though the government had been working hard on several scenarios and contingency plans in readiness for any eventuality, it was important to proceed in a measured manner based on a complete understanding of the challenges.

She added that given the nature of the oil market, Nigeria need to see the extent and trend of the oil price to take the right measures.

Serious as the situation demands, Mrs. Okonjo-Iweala cautioned against taking panicky measures in addressing the challenge. “It’s important that our strategies are based on

THE NATION TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2014

3

NEWS

ces: An elixir for economic turnaround

•Okonjo-Iweala

facts and a clear understanding of both the strengths of the economy and the challenges posed by the drop in oil prices, which is currently at $79 for our premium Bonny Light Crude,”she said.

Beyond government’s disposition, the development is of concern to many. The President of Nigerian Association of Petroleum Explorationists (NAPE), Mrs. Adedoja Ojelabi, expressed worry over the continued drop in price of crude oil because of the anticipated negative impact it will have on the economy.

Mrs. Ojelabi said the falling oil price shouldn’t have been a concern, if necessary precautions were put in place. She said in any normal market, prices are expected to rise and fall. But she added that as a country, Nigeria doesn’t anticipate issues that would drive up or drive down the price and the measures to mitigate situations such as the sliding crude oil price.

She added that although “Nigeria does not have control over oil price because it is internationally determined through the forces of demand and supply, but it can mitigate the effect locally by producing and refining sufficiently in-country”.

“If we have this self-sufficiency, the effect will trickle down to other sectors of the economy and the impact of falling price will not be felt so much. If Nigeria produces and refines more than it requires locally, in a period of continued drop in prices as it is now, it can export refined products.

Also, if proceeds from oil have been sufficiently invested in expanding other sectors and making power available to Nigerians, the benefits should be unquantifiable”, she said.

She argued that the effect of the falling oil price is worsened by the fact that Nigeria had not been meeting its production target for a long time, stat-

• Bello

•Chioke

•Source: The Rakyat post

POLICY HIGHLIGHTS

•Tight fiscal policies to stabilise the economy •Shortfalls in allocation to states and councils •May affect recurrent and capital expenditure •Diversification of revenue earnings •May depress the nation’s external reserves •Cost push inflation and devaluation of currency •The need for economic diversification ing that the nation’s reserve was showing a sign of decline as exploration drilling has hit the lowest level ever experienced in the nation’s history. The falling price, Mrs. Ojelabi said, would worsen the situation as low oil price discourages exploration.

NAPE President-elect, Chinwendu Edozien, explained that the drop in oil price was the result of consumer countries, such as the U.S. becoming self-sufficient in domestic production and supply. He added that it was the price of crude that determines whether an oil firm would go and

drill or not.

“The search for oil is often driven by price of crude. So, if oil price is so low, oil firms will not go searching for oil because they will end up operating at a loss,” the NAPE Presidentelect said.

The Chief Executive Officer, International Energy Services Limited, Dr. Diran Fawibe, stated that the S73 benchmark for a barrel was not appropriate, considering the current price. He noted that $70 could have been more appropriate. On the effect of falling oil price on exploration, he

argued that at $70 per a barrel, oil firms can still search for oil and carry out other operations.

“Even at less than $70, oil firms can carry exploration activities, but on certain conditions, such as passage of the Petroleum Industry Bill and putting necessary incentives and environment in place”, he added.

The Managing Director, Niger Delta Exploration & Production Limited, Dr. Layi Fatona, stated: “I guess the falling oil price is good for Nigeria. It’s an opportunity to think less of oil production for export only.

Now, it’s the time to think extra value addition existing between production and the terminal. The diversity of income earnings the country misses by only export of crude oil must guide our strategy for dealing with the shocks of low oil price.”

To the Managing Director, Afrinvest West Africa Plc, Ike Chioke, oil prices have typically been a crucial indicator of economic cycles. He said higher oil prices have been associated with periods of boom in the global economy due to related expansion in economic activities, while the sporadic decline in oil prices, highlights the likelihood of a bear market.

He anticipated a dynamic reversal of these phenomena, primarily as the U.S. oil production continues to expand while the global economy expands simultaneously.

“The oil industry ‘Titans’ may be required to be defensive, crossing the lower band of Shale’s viable cost price to ensure the rules of the game are not altered by new comers in the industry,” he said in an emailed report.

Chioke noted the proposed 2015 budget is based on a benchmark oil price of $78bp and as such, is susceptible to progressive decline in crude oil prices.

He said Nigeria’s revenue profile is comprised of 75 per cent crude oil receipts, while 95 per cent of foreign

exchange earnings are obtained from crude oil exports, culminating into a negative accretion rate in the external reserve.

“The decline in oil prices highlights one key question: will fiscal authorities have the capacity to stabilise the economy in the case of an adverse effect? In a flight to safety and to avoid the anticipated devaluation of the local currency, foreign investors have begun to exit position, leading to a plunge in the capital market,” he said.

The firm’s managing director said the naira had witnessed enormous pressure within the last three months with a 4.7 per cent depreciation during the period. In consolation, he noted that the external reserves cover over six months of imports - above the three month International Monetary Fund threshold.

According to him, while the diversification process of fiscal revenues gradually gains momentum, the Nigerian economy continues to rely overwhelmingly on crude oil receipt for foreign exchange earnings.

The current reduction in the price of crude oil would have a dire consequence for the economy, the President of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), Alhaji Remi Bello, equally said.

He said not only will the excess crude account be drastically reduced, but that it would result in what he described as Cost-Push-Inflation, and indirectly devalue the currency from its exchange rate.

He said: “ There will be inflation, as limited dollars will be available to those who need it. For instance, the dollar can go up in the parallel market to about N190 from its N160 position currently”.

Bello stressed that this might push up the cost of operation for the manufacturing sector specifically and a change in the Monetary Policy Rate (MPR).

In addition, he said jobs would be drastically affected, stressing that any reduction in government spending would affect the economy as government’s spending acts as a stimulus to the whole economy.

The only discordant tune to the development came from the Nigeria Customs Service. The National Publicity Officer, Wale Adeniyi, said the reduction in the oil price benchmark by the Federal Government would have no effect on Customs revenue, arguing that the “Customs does not collect duty on oil”.

Some respondents in a Radio programme monitored by The Nation said there were some unseen benefits in the downward slide in crude oil price.

They argued that it was only when petroleum price was unattractive that the Federal Government and policy makers would think constructively to diversify the economy.

They regretted the nation’s dependency on oil and the monolithic economy being operated, insisting that no serious nation would run its economy on a mono-economy.

While they asked for the complete removal of the fuel subsidy, they also argued that the price reduction would curb corruption in the oil sector, which has become a virus in the economy.

Intercontinental Bank’s acquisition: FRC appeals court’s judgment

T

HE last might not have been heard about the acquisition of Intercontinental Bank by Access Bank, as the Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria (FRC) has decided to appeal the judgment of a Federal High Court sitting in Lagos, which declared that the FRC lacked the powers to investigate the takeover . In its notice of appeal made available by the council’s Spokesman, Mack Ogbamosa, while addressing the reporters at the weekend, the FRC contended, among others, that the judgment in the case was

against the weight of evidence.

The financial regulator also faulted the court for dismissing the preliminary objection filed by the council, challenging the jurisdiction of the lower court to entertain the case pursuant to relevant provisions of the FRC Act. It further claimed in its appeal that the principle of presumption of regularity laid down by section 168 of the Evidence Act was not observed.

The FRC challenged the judgment on the ground that the judge erred in law when he held

that exhibit AA6B was admissible in law and further erred by placing reliance on the erroneously admitted document in awarding judgment in favour of the respondents.

Another ground of appeal by the council was the contention that the learned trial judge erred in law when he held that the appellant did not have the vires to investigate the respondents.

The FRC also stated that the learned trial judge erred in law when he equated the use of the words “fraudulent sale” in the Akingbola peti-

tion dated March 25, 2014, with the commission of a crime and thereby came to the erroneous conclusion that an administrative panel such as that set up by the appellant had no powers to investigate criminal allegations.

It argued that since the acquisition of the defunct Intercontinental Bank Plc by Access Bank Plc breached sections 11 (a), (b) & (c) of the FRC Act, the FRC had the powers to investigate the said acquisition.

4

THE NATION TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2014

Jonathan okays extension of state of emergency in Borno, Adamawa, Yobe

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RESIDENT Goodluck Jonathan will request the National assembly to extend the state of emergency in Borno, Yobe and Adamawa States, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation Mohammed Adoke, said yesterday.

He said: “We just reviewed the issue of the state of emergency and the government will be requesting the National Assembly to extend the state of emergency,” he told State House reporters after a meeting of the National Defence Council.

•President Goodluck Jonathan, inspecting an Aircraft locally Produced by Engineer Ibrahim Raji of Robotech Innovative Solutions. Behind him are Abia State Governor Theodore Orji and Minister for Communication Technology, Mrs Omobola Johnson during the 4th edition of Youth Enterprise with Innovation in Nigeria (YOUWIN) at the Banquet Hall State House, Abuja...yesterday.

PHOTO AKIN OLADOKUN

INEC’s voter cards crises continue in Lagos, Edo, Kano, others

M

ANY Nigerians yesterday delivered a damning verdict on the distribution of the Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs). The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has failed, they said.

Those who want to register either because their data were lost by INEC or they have just clocked 18 have found it a harder task almost across the country.

INEC at the weekend extended the continuous registration in Lagos, Imo , Edo, Plateau, Kano and Ogun states till tomorrow.

The registration was to have closed yesterday.

T

From Kolade Adeyemi, Kano, Wale Ajetunmobi and Jide Orintunsin, Minna

The extension of the continuous registration in Kano ran into hitches, as most of the prospective voters could be disenfranchised.

Prospective voters could not be registered in most of the polling units owing to shortage of manpower.

At Tarauni O1 Unit, which recorded a large turnout of people, especially women, many were disappointed.

An 81-year-old woman, Hasiya Ahmad, who came all the way from Farawa Quarters to register, could not do so, be-

cause only three INEC officials were attending to hundreds of people.

She said: “I am here to exercise my civic responsibility but to my astonishment I have been denied. I have been coming for the past six days to register but to no avail.

“Look, I’m sick and old and the place is overcrowded. As such, I cannot withstand this hectic situation,” she said.

An INEC official, Baba Dogo, said: “We are in danger. The security provided here is light. We can’t cope with the large crowd; we need more hands.”

Continued on page 63

From Yusuf Alli, Abuja

unknown last night.

Governor Tanko Al-Makura, told our reporter on the telephone that there was no cause for alarm.

The Ombatse militia regrouped yesterday, following the invasion of Alakyo by Fulani gunmen, who were after rustlers who carted away about 500 cows.

It was gathered that as early as

6am, the militia invaded Akurba Sonya, Alago settlement and Shabu, among others.

There were reported clashes between Eggon people and Kambari boys, and Eggon and Gwamdara.

There were gun shots all through the day in Kilema, Tudun Gwandara and Tudun Amba in Lafia, but attempts to seize the state capital were resisted by the police and security agents.

tion of caretaker committees – a request that was rejected by the majority APC House members.

A PDP lawmaker representing Ekiti East 2, Mr. Samuel Ajibola, told reporters shortly after the “sitting” that Speaker Adewale Omirin was on an assignment for his party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), in Lagos. Deputy Speaker Taiwo Orisalade was on a campaign tour to his constituency (Ido/ Osi 2), he said.

Ajibola maintained that 10 legislators attended the “sitting” adding that they sat to ensure good governance, peace, progress and development of the state.

But the All Progressives Congress (APC) lawmakers have declared the “sitting” as illegal, unconstitutional, unparliamentary and a rape of the Constitution and the Standing Rules of the House.

They called for the arrest and prosecution of the three impersonators who posed as members of the House to carry out an illegality in the parliamentary chambers.

The APC Assemblymen said no sitting was slated for Monday and the House was not convoked by the Speaker,

T

LL Progressives Congress (APC) National Publicity Secretary Alhaji Lai Mohammed yesterday raised the alarm over “a PDP-led and police-backed acts of impunity in Ekiti State.”

A statement, Mohammed said: “The issue of the Caretaker Committees, which Governor Ayodele Fayose plans to swear in on Monday after the illegal approval by the House, is sub judice, hence the House cannot even discuss it, not to talk of acting on it. Also, while the governor was advised by the Clerk of the House that seven members out of 26 do not form a quorum, he said after all, only eight of 24 members in the Plateau House of Assembly impeached then Governor Joshua Dariye in 2006!”

The APC said ahead of what is clearly the height of impunity

by a democratically-elected government, the utility services in the official residence of the House Speaker, including electricity supply, have been cut off while his salaries and allowances have been stopped.

Other acts of intimidation have been directed at the Speaker by the state authorities.

“We know that President Goodluck Jonathan, who is the leader of the PDP, has elevated impunity to an art, but he has simply overreached himself with his party’s latest show of shame in Ekiti. The fact that the President’s body language supports impunity has emboldened officials elected under the banner of the PDP and appointed by his administration to perpetrate acts of impunity with impunity.

Continued on page 56

•Mrs. Ahmad...yesterday

Residents stayed indoors amid fears of likely invasion of the state capital.

A source said: “The sack of Alakyo on Sunday by gunmen shocked Ombatse militia who woke up yesterday to launch a revenge mission. They only succeeded in attacking some outskirts of Lafia.

“They were able to attack some villages in the outskirts of Lafia where three people were killed and Continued on page 63

Continued from page 1

gate.

Ugorji-Eke’s wife and other members of his family were indoors, unaware of the scene that was on in front of their home.

An eyewitness alerted them to the incident after the hoodlums had driven away.

The abductors are said to be asking for N20 million to free the reporter, warning his wife not to involve the police and other security agencies in the negotiations or risk losing her loved one.

Abia State Governor’s Chief Press Secretary Charles Ajunwa and police spokesman Geoffery Ogbonna, in a telephone call and

text message, assured that the police were working to ensure that he is released unconditionally and unhurt.

Reacting to the development, a civil rights activist, Charles Chinekezi, described UgorjiEke’s abduction as unacceptable. “It was Ozehkome, Okey Wali and today, it is Ugochukwu Eke. How far can we go as a state and nation with these incessant attacks on people that are rendering selfless services to the nation?” ”We want to believe that the police, army and other security agencies in the state are already Continued on page 63

Speaker condemns illegality

HE Speaker of the Ekiti State House of Assembly, Dr. Adewale Omirin, has maintained that the seven Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) legislators who “sat” to ratify three commissionernominees failed to form the quorum needed to hold a valid sitting of the legislative chamber.

Omirin, in a statement by his media aide, Wole Olujobi, said the seven PDP lawmakers at the sitting did not meet the quorum of nine members that would have validated their action.

He listed the PDP members who sat, including six All Progressives Congress (APC) members who defected to the PDP on inauguration day as: Hon. Ajibola Samuel- Ekiti East II, Hon. Adeojo AlexanderEkiti, South West II, Hon. Adeloye Adeyinka- Ikole I, Hon. Israel Olowo Ajiboye, Hon. Fatunbi Olajide J. A -Moba II, Hon.

Dr. Adewale Omirin, who is constitutionally empowered to do so.

The PDP lawmakers at the sitting “elected” Mr. Dele Olugbemi who defected from the APC on October 16 during Fayose’s inauguration, as the protem speaker.

Olugbemi, who represents Ikole 2 Constituency, shortly after his “election” presided over the session in which the three commissioner-nominees were screened and cleared.

The meeting which reviewed the state of emergency in the states, due to end on Thursday; was presided over by President Goodluck Jonathan.

It was attended by service chiefs led by Chief of Defence Staff Air Chief Marshal Alex Badeh. Minister of Defence Gen. Aliyu Gusau and National Security Adviser (NSA) Col. Sambo Dasuki.

Adoke said the request will be made “immediately.”

APC raises alarm over ‘PDP-instigated impunity ‘

Thugs guard 7 lawmakers to okay Fayose’s nominees Continued from page 1

Abuja

The Nation reporter kidnapped

Tension as Ombatse kills three in attack

HREE people were yesterday killed on the outskirts of Lafia, the Nasarawa State capital. This followed reprisala by Ombatse militia.

The development has created tension in Lafia. Movement is restricted.

Commercial motorcyclists are to operate from 6am to 6pm.

The whereabouts of the spiritual leader of the Ombatse cult, Baba Alakyo, was

A

From Augustine Ehikioya,

Olugbemi Joseph Dele- Ikole II and Hon. Olayinka Modupe Abeni- Ado II. Omirin faulted the argument of the Minority Leader, Mr. Samuel Ajibola, on the appointment of a protem speaker, saying before a protem speaker is appointed to sit in the absence of the Speaker, a letter must be written to the Speaker to that effect.

It is only when such a request is approved that a protem speaker is appointed to conduct the business of the day, said Omirin, who added that the condition was not fulfilled before the PDP members and three unknown individuals proceeded with the “sitting”.

He alleged that the Clerk of the House, Mr. Tola Esan, was forcibly taken to his office by the seven PDP lawmakers assisted by armed policemen and party thugs where the mace was taken away to conduct an illegal sitting.

The nominees are Mr. Owoseni Ajayi for Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Kayode Oso (Works) and Mr. Toyin Ojo (Finance and Economic Development).

The “sitting”, which started at about 10.00 am, saw the PDP lawmakers led by Ajibola who is the Minority Leader, conducting the business of the day.

The seven PDP lawmakers who could be identified by reporters inside the chamber are: Ajibola, Olugbemi, Mr. Adeyin-

Omirin said: “We have heard of the reckless abuse of the constitution from other states like stories in the movies, but today, before our very eyes, Governor Fayose provided seven members of PDP with 300 armed mobile policemen, complete with armoured vehicles, to conduct a plenary in the House of Assembly to approve the reconstitution of the council care-taker committees and confirmation of the commissioner-nominees without the 19 members of the All Progressives Congress in attendance.

“The prelude to today’s event was well established, details of which were published in the media. The first attempt was when they planned to storm the House with thugs to attack APC members with the aid of security agents to change the leadership of the House.

ka Adeloye (Ikole 1), Mrs. Abeni Olayinka (Ado 2), Mrs. Ayo Olajide-Fatunbi (Moba 2), Mr. Olowo Ajiboye (Oye 2) and Mr. Alex Adeojo (Ekiti Southwest 2).

Ajibola was the only PDP member in the House before Fayose returned to power on October 16. He was joined by the six who defected to the ruling party on the day of the governor’s inauguration.

But reporters struggled to identify the three other persons posing as lawmakers as none of

Continued on page 56

the trio was seen immediately the “sitting” ended at about 10.40 am.

Ajibola, who acted as Leader of Government Business in the House, hinged the action of the PDP lawmakers on Section 27 of the Standing Order, which, according to him, gives the lawmakers powers to appoint a speaker pro-tempore in the absence of the Speaker and the Deputy Soeaker.

He argued that the protem speaker is empowered by the

•Dr. Omirin

Standing Order to perform the function of the substantive Speaker when the first two principal officers are not around.

Ajibola moved the motion to allow the Sergeant-at-Arms to usher in the three nominees. The motion was unanimously adopted by the lawmakers and their nomination was subsequently “ratified”.

Continued on page 56

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THE NATION TUESDAY NOVEMBER 18, 2014

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NEWS

Ebola: ‘Nigerian teachers in S’Leone, Liberia evacuated’

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HE Director-General of the Technical Aid Corps (TAC), Dr. Pius Osunyikanmi, said yesterday that the agency had evacuated Nigerian teachers from Sierra Leone and Liberia through Morocco.

He said the records of the returnee- teachers were made available to the Ministry of Health and the World Health Organization for medical examination.

Osunyikanmi, however, said the agency was still processing the deployment of 150 teachers, which might hold after the Ebola epidemic had been curtailed.

From: Yusuf Alli, Abuja

The DG, who spoke in a telephone chat with our correspondent, said the directorate took precautionary measures on the 150 teachers.

He said: “When the Ebola epidemic broke out, I immediately wrote to our high commissioners in Sierra Leone and Liberia. They replied us that the affected teachers were not in Ebola-infected areas.

“They said if they evaluated the situation, they would evacuate the teachers to the capital cities. After about three weeks, TAC asked the high commissions again on wheth-

er or not there was need to evacuate these teachers.

“The embassies said there could be need but it had not got to that stage. After necessary communication with the Minister of Foreign Affairs, we got in touch with the embassies for evacuation of the teachers.

“Since there was no flight to Monrovia and Freetown, we evacuated the teachers through Casablanca (Morocco). We spent about $20,000. ”There is not a TAC teacher left in Liberia and Sierra Leone.

Those who came back had their contacts delivered to the Feder-

al Ministry of Health and the World Health Organization (WHO) for necessary check up.

“We did the contact tracing of the teachers and presented it to the Ministry of Health and WHO. “We have accorded these volunteers’ welfare a priority.

When one of our volunteers was involved in an accident, I had to get a presidential jet to evacuate him to the University of Jos Teaching Hospital.

“Since I came on board on August 15 last year, I have not posted TAC volunteers to Sierra Leone and Liberia, except Benin Republic where the vol-

unteers are in Nigerian International School. I inherited all these volunteers.”

Osunyikanmi assured that the returnee TAC teachers had been recommended for Ebola check up before reintegrating them into the society.

Responding to a question, the DG said the complaint by some TAC volunteers might have been as a result of some measures put in place by the agency.

He said: “Some of the volunteers who had come home for one thing or the other before the Ebola outbreak were declined their return.

“Last week, about two-third of the 150 teachers approached me. They complained about their belongings. I have assured them that we will bring everything safely back to them.

“Some of them also wanted clearance from TAC, but I said on condition that they submit their official passport, which has been a subject of abuse. They do not want to submit the official passport.”

On the recruitment of fresh 150 teachers for Sierra Leone and Liberia, Osunyikanmi said: “We are processing their deployment until the situation improves.”

CJN urges governors to respect provision From Eric Ikhilae, Abuja

•High-powered consultations: Vice Chairman, All Progressives Congress (APC), Lagos State, Chief Funsho Ologunde; APC National Women Leader, Southwest, Mrs. Kemi Nelson; APC Lagos governorship candidate, Akinwunmi Ambode; former member, House of Representatives, Bayo Odulana; former Lagos State Commissioner for Training and Establishment, Chief Ebenezer Akinbolade and top party leader in Ikeja, Dr. Adeshola Taiwo, at a political consultation visit

by Ambode to the Ikeja, Ojodu and Onigbongbo local governments...yesterday.

‘Unnecessary govt intervention in business counter-productive’

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OVERNMENT has been urged to adhere to the proceeds of longterm research conducted by the nation’s erudite professionals and refrain from unnecessary exercise of governmental power, because it is slowing the nation’s development.

The Chairman of Bi Courtney Limited, Dr. Wale Babalakin, spoke at the presentation and launch of books of reading titled: “Construction & Housing in Nigeria”, written by Prof.

By Okwy Iroegbu-Chikezie

Kunle Ade Wahab OFR, OON, at the Julius Berger Hall, University of Lagos.

Babalakin, who chaired the event, hailed Prof Wahab’s work, saying it took a lot to write a book.

He acknowledged the professor as a guiding light in the emergence of SURE-P. Prof. Wahab, he said, pioneered the Department of Quantity Surveying at the University

of Ife, now called Obafemi Awolowo University, which had produced over 48 professors.

Quantity Surveying, Babalakin said, was the most critical part of any construction since it enabled a developer to understand project cost, monitor costs so as to deliver the project to the cost.

“This is a difficult thing to do.”

He said the Bureau of Public Enterprise (BPE) was established under Prof Wahab, who ensured

that contracts and projects were done through due process.

According to him, Wahab coordinated the flawless process, which led to his company emerging as the preferred bidder for the redevelopment of decrepit Federal Secretariat in Lagos.

The project, Babalakin said, was up to a good start before the government moved to stall it, even after some people had subscribed to the flats that were to be created.

He said the company already

UI honours Soyinka, Ogunlesi, Olanipekun, Tamuno with doctoral degrees

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HE University of Ibadan (UI) yesterday honoured five eminent Nigerians, including Nobel laureate Prof.

Wole Soyinka; the first alumnus of the university to become its vice chancellor, Emeritus Professor Tekena Tamuno; first Nigerian professor of medicine, Emeritus Professor Theophilus Ogunlesi and former President, Nigeria Bar Association (NBA), Chief Wole Olanipekun.

The institution conferred on them doctoral degrees (honoris causa) at its 2014 convocation and 66th foundation day held at the International Conference Centre.

Soyinka was awarded Doctor of Letters (D.Litt.), Olanipekun was given Doctor of Law (LL.D), Ogunlesi was honoured with Doctor of Science (D.Sc), Tamuno was given Doctor of Letters (D.Litt.) and a business mogul, Chief Mike Adenuga, was honoured with Doctor of Science.

The Vice Chancellor, Prof.

Isaac Adewole, said the conferment marked the university’s tribute to the honourees for their contributions to the growth of the premier university.

He said: “These honourees

From Tayo Johnson, Ibadan

are delightfully-rare exceptions. Specifically, the whole world knows that their contributions to higher education in Nigeria are legendary. In every way, they are men of history, who by astute commitment to excellence, remain the living legends and icons of our university and Nigeria. Beyond these, they are exceptionallygood men with outstanding pedigree.”

Responding on behalf of the honourees, Soyinka, who was supposed to have been given the honour in 1987 – a year after he emerged as the first African and Black Noble Prize winner for Literature, thanked the university for the awards.

Adewole urged Nigerians to watch out for a non-government organisation, Chibok Volunteers International, which would promote the ideals of quality and quantitative education to the underprivileged in Nigeria and other countries.

He said the abduction of more than 200 schoolgirls at the Government Girls’ Secondary School in Chibok, Borno State led to the formation of the organisation.

President Goodluck Jonathan, who was represented by the Minister of Education, Mallam Ibrahim Shekarau, said the government “recognises that Nigeria cannot strive for accelerated development without huge investment in education”, adding that that was why government had since inception given increased budgetary allocation to education.

“But education cannot be left to the government alone. The private sector must be involved in the task of providing quality education. Universities must define their roles and carve out a niche by designing programmes that will assist government in poverty reduction, health promotion, application of new technologies in the advancement of knowledge, advancing the quality, protecting the environment, promoting sustainable human development as well as sustaining democracy and good governance.”

Six hundred and fourteen candidates were awarded with the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), in addition to one Doctor of Medicine degree.

Prof. Adewole said the Faculty of Education led the pack

had 450 flats, and that half of these were sold before the government stopped them.

The Bi Courtney Ltd chairman condemned what he called governmental power, which he explained was the excesses of government officials, who disregarded rules to scuttle private sector initiatives.

Babalakin (SAN) said it was the impunity of a former military governor of Ogun State that stalled the development of Agbara Estate.

THE Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Aloma Mukhtar, yesterday urged the executive, particularly the governors, to respect the constitutional provision, which guaranteed fiscal autonomy to the judiciary.

She said they should give effect to the January 13 judgment of the Federal High Court, which upheld the constitutional provision, since they (the governors) had sworn to protect and defend the constitution. The CJN, who decried the deplorable condition in which the lower court judges operated, said most challenges confronting the judiciary would be addressed when the sector was financially independent.

Justice Mukhtar, stressing the need for continuous reform in the judicial sector, advised judges and court officials to distance themselves from acts capable of compromising judicial integrity and lowering public confidence.

She spoke in Abuja while opening this year’s “Conference for all Nigerian judges of the lower courts,” with the theme: “Repositioning the lower courts for improved justice delivery.”

The event, which attracted magistrates and other judges of lower courts nationwide, was organised by the National Judicial Institute (NJI).

Soldier ‘kills’ one

A • Prof. Soyinka...yesterday

with 142 graduating students, followed by Arts with 117 as well as Agriculture and Forestry with 88.

The university on Saturday presented master’s degrees to 5,959 graduating students.

The Pro-chancellor, Gen. Adeyinka Adebayo (retd), who hailed the Federal Government for the release of funds for the revitalisation of the universities, said: “It should be noted, however, that a lot still needs to be done, if indeed the concern of government for universities to be better global players in the provision of tertiary education is to be achieved.”

Prof. Adewole urged the Federal Government to give a special funding to the university, which parades about 400 professors on its nominal roll, and produced 614 PhDs at this year’s convocation.

From Yusufu Aminu Idegu, Jos

soldier serving with the Special Task Force (STF) on Jos crisis has allegedly killed a member of the Plateau State security outfit called “Operation Rainbow”.

The deceased, Pam Chollom, was allegedly stabbed to death on Sunday about 7pm. The incident occurred during a quarrel among personnel of the security agencies in Barkin Ladi Local Government.

An eyewitness said the officials were returning from the wards where they had gone to supervise the voter registration.

He went on: “The STF men insulted the officials, who got to a checkpoint close to the Sector Seven Command office in Barkin Ladi, without provocation.”

Bitrus Rigat, one of the three officials of the security outfit, said: “We were assaulted by the STF men. We did not provoke them. They insulted us, calling us names as we passed through the checkpoint.

Then, one of them attempted to drag me to their office when the State Security officials arrived the scene and tried to intervene.”

Navy school denies banning pupils from observing prayers

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HE Commandant of Navy Secondary School, Abeokuta, Ogun State, Navy Commander Felicia Arukwe, has assured parents that religious belief would be respected.

Arukwe, who spoke at the Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) meeting, denied a media report alleging that the school management had banned Muslim pupils from observing Solat (prayers).

She said the school, which was founded in 1990 with full boarding facilities, had a mosque and an Imam for Muslim pupils as well as a church and chaplains for Christians.

The commandant said religious faith was part of the school’s curriculum to nurture the pupils to face the future with the fear of God, adding that there was no way she would “resume in the school a few weeks ago and ban Muslim pupils from observing their prayers.”

Navy Commander Arukwe said the pupils observed Solat Subh, Dhuhr and Asr prayers at the stipulated periods, while they stayed in the mosque between 7pm and 8pm for Solat Maghrib and Isha’a as well as the accompanying non-obligatory prayers before going for prep.

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THE NATION TUESDAY NOVEMBER 18, 2014

NEWS

Court orders Fani-Kayode to defend two of 40-count charge

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USTICE Rita Ofili-Ajumogobia of the Federal High Court in Lagos directed yesterday a former Aviation Minister, Chief Femi Fani-Kayode, to defend two of the 40-count money laundering charge brought against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

The judge held that the commission did not prove the other counts sufficiently and partially upheld Fani-Kayode’s no-case submission.

She discharged and acquitted him on the rest of the 38 counts because the prosecution failed to prove “elements” of the allegations.

Fani-Kayode will open his defence on counts 25 and 26.

Count 25 reads: “That you, Chief Femi Fani-Kayode, on or before September 20, 2006, while serving as the Minister of Culture and Tourism, in Lagos within the jurisdiction of this court, made a transaction exceeding N500,000, which was not done through financial institution, by accepting cash payment of N1 million, which sum was further paid into your personal account number 103450252601 with First Inland Bank Plc, Apapa branch, now First City Monument Bank (FCMB), through Supo Agbaje, your administrative worker, now at large.”

Count 26 reads: “That you, Chief Femi Fani-Kayode, on or before September 20, 2006, while serving as the Minister of Culture and Tourism in Lagos with-

By Joseph Jibueze

in the jurisdiction of this court, made a transaction exceeding N500,000, which was not done through financial institution, by accepting cash payment of N1.1 million, which sum was further paid into your personal account number 103450252601 with First Inland Bank Plc Apapa branch, now FCMB, through Supo Agbaje, your administrative worker, now at large.”

The alleged offences contravene the Money Laundering (prohibition) Act, 2004.

Justice Ofili-Ajumogobia held that from the wordings of the 40-count charge, they were set out in two formats, with the essential elements being that Fani-Kayode received cash exceeding N500,000 without going through a financial institution.

“For ease of reference, I shall set out counts one and 33 only, being prototype of the two species of the counts; the distinction however, is for the basis of convenience. In one format, the accused was alleged to have paid the amount into his account, while in the other, he was alleged to have paid it into the account of a third party.

“I find that there was an acceptance of cash payment of an amount exceeding N500,000 by the applicant, which was not done through a financial institution, and also, a payment at the behest of the applicant.

“This distinction pales into insignificance when one consid-

ers the elements of each count.

The first element would have been satisfied if the prosecution led evidence to show that cash sums exceeding the statutory threshold were handed to a specified third party, which was further transmitted to a financial system.

“The second element is discharged where the prosecution leads evidence to show that the said transmission was at the behest of the applicant. It will be immaterial in my view whether the monies were paid into the account of the accused or a third party.

“Only PW4 and PW5 gave evidence about payment; the testimony of PW5 in particular was in respect of counts 21, 23 and 31, and on the application of prosecution, PW5 was declared a hostile witness.

“It is not in doubt that the oral and written submissions of PW5 are contradictory and inconsistent and no reasonable tribunal is expected to convict on such testimony. The natural implication, therefore, is that no evidence exists before this court to establish counts 21, 23 and 25.

EFCC opened its case on March 10 and closed it on July 10 after calling six witnesses.

Fani-Kayode filed a no-case submission on August 5. A nocase answer is a term whereby a defendant seeks acquittal without having to present a defence.

His lawyer Mr. Ifedayo Adedipe (SAN) argued that EFCC did not make out any case

•Fani-Kayode

against his client to warrant calling witnesses in defence.

“The prosecution called six witnesses, and of all these witnesses, none of them came forward to give any evidence that they had any financial transaction with the accused,” the lawyer said.

EFCC’s lawyer, Festus Keyamo, said the prosecution made out a case for Fani-Kayode to open his defence.

“Without wasting the time of this court, I will only correct one notion, and that is that the prosecution’s case does not concern bank lodgment, but transactions which took place before the lodgment.

“It’s about transactions, which are done without going through financial institutions, which come under the definition of money laundering,” Keyamo said.

Fani-Kayode was tried on an amended 40-count charge of money laundering.

The former minister was said

to have laundered about N100,219,500 by paying them into his account through an associate.

For instance, EFCC said on or about November 22, 2006, Fani-Kayode made a financial transaction exceeding N500,000, which was not done through a financial institution.

It said he accepted cash payment of N10 million, which was carried in cash to First Inland Bank, Plc, Apapa branch (now First City Monument Bank Plc) through his close associate, Mark Saviour Ndifreke, said to be at large.

The money, EFCC alleged, was put into Fani-Kayode’s investment account for 90 days, an offence contrary to Section 15(1)(d) and punishable under Section 15(2)(b) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2004.”

Other counts stated that he carried out some of the transactions exceeding N500,000 while also serving as the minister of Culture and Tourism. Ndifreke was also said to have helped him pay the money into his account.

He allegedly committed the offences between August 2006 and May 2007.

One of the counts stated that on December 5, 2006, while as the Aviation minister, he accepted N2.1million, which was paid into his personal account numbered 103450252601 with First Inland Bank Plc (now First City Monument Bank).

T

Fani-Kayode pleaded not guilty to the counts.

One of the counts reads: “That you Chief Femi Fani-Kayode, on or about November 22, 2006, while serving as the Minister of Aviation in Lagos, within the jurisdiction of this court, made a financial transaction exceeding N500, 000, which was not done through financial institution by accepting cash payment of N10 million, which sum further carried in cash to First Inland Bank Plc, Apapa branch (now First City Monument Bank PLC.), through Saviour Ndifreke, (your close associate now at large), and put in an investment account in your favour for 90 days, contrary to Section 15 (1) (d) and punishable under Section 15 (2) (b) of the Money Laundry Prohibition Act, 2004.”

Fani-Kayode was first arraigned in December 2008 before Justice Ramat Mohammed on a 47-count charge.

He was re-arraigned before Justice Binta Murtala-Nyako following the transfer of Mohammed from the Lagos Division.

The accused was again re-arraigned before Justice Ofili-Ajumogobia on February 11 last year after Murtala-Nyako was transferred.

Following an amendment of the charges from 47 to 40, FaniKayode took a fresh plea before Justice Ofili-Ajumogobia on March 6.

Justice Ofili-Ajumogobia adjourned till December 8 for continuation of trial.

Chamber of Commerce hails NAFDAC’S DG

HE Lagos State Chamber of Commerce and Industry has hailed the Director-General of the National Agency for Food, Drug, Administration and Control (NAFDAC), Dr. Paul Orhii, for promoting high standard among the manufacturers of food and drug.

The chamber’s President, Alhaji Remi Bello, spoke at the just-concluded Lagos International Trade Fair.

Also speaking at the event, the Oba of Lagos , Oba Rilwan Babatunde Osuolale Aremu Akiolu 1, praised Orhii for his efforts in tackling fake drugs and unwholesome products.

NAFDAC carried out product monitoring and surveillance activities at the fair.

Its aim was to make available its regulatory functions to the organisers, manufacturers, marketers, importers, exporters of food, drug and other regulated products.

The agency deployed its cutting edge technology (Truscan equipment, SMS messaging, Mini lab) to determine the status of the products exhibited at the fair.

NAFDAC’s presence impacted on the activities, particularly on the public, who accessed the exhibition stands.

It used the opportunity provided by the trade fair to promote the fight against fake products and entrench the culture of product wholesomeness.

MDGs, NTI to train over 4,070 teachers •All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential aspirant, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar (middle), submitting his nomination form to the National Chairman, Chief John Odigie-Oyegun, in Abuja...yesterday. With them is the National Organising Secretary, Senator Osita Izunaso (left).

‘Nigeria needs commitment to overcome terrorism’

F

IRST Lady Dame Patience Jonathan has urged commitment from Nigerians, irrespective of political and religious sentiments, in the fight against terrorism.

She said the task of ensuring peace should not be left to the government alone.

Mrs. Jonathan said with team work, the country would overcome insecurity, adding: “The reality of the situation imposes on every Nigerian, the obligation to subscribe to the philosophy of commitment.”

The First Lady, who spoke at Umueze 1 in Ehime Mbano Local Government Area of Imo State, at the dedication of the St. Michael’s Catholic Church,

From Okodili Ndidi, Owerri

built by billionaire businessman Chief Tony Chukwu, enjoined Nigerians, whom she described as peace- loving people, not to allow “troublemakers have their way.”

Her words: “I want to remind everyone that peace is a commitment to all of us. It should not be left for government alone. Nigerians are peace-loving people, troublemakers should not be allowed to have their way. Our country will overcome every of its challenges.”

Mrs. Jonathan solicited support for the President’s Transformation Agenda, noting that it had put the country on the path of recovery.

“We should support the Transformation Agenda because it has moved the nation forward. It is when we work together that we can progress.”

Urging prayer for the nation, the First Lady hailed Chukwu for building the place of worship, saying the church would bring the people nearer to God. The officiating Priest and the Apostolic Nonsio, Augustine Kusuji, advised Nigerians to fight insecurity with prayers, adding that through prayers, the Boko Haram insurgency, the Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) and other challenges would be overcome.

He assured that the church

would play its role of promoting peace, unity and harmony in the world.

The donor said the church was his way of giving back to humanity and to God for his blessings to his family.

Personalities who attended the event included Senate Deputy President Ike Ekweremmadu, House of Representatives Deputy Speaker Emeka Ihedioha, Iyom Uche Ekwunife, Governor Theodore Orji, Dr. Ifeanyi Uba and former Imo State Governor Ikedi Ohakim.

Others are Senator Ifeanyi Ararume, Captain Emmanuel Iheanacho, Imo State First Lady Nneoma Nkechi Okorocha, Chris Uba, among others.

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From Ahmed Rufa’I, Dutse

HE Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) Nigeria, in collaboration with the National Teachers’ Institute (NTI), will train 4, 070 primary school teachers in modern teaching techniques.

The Director-General of the National Teachers Institute (NTI), Prof. Ladan Sharehu, spoke at the launch of the 2014 MDGs nationwide capacity building workshop in Dutse, the Jigawa State capital.

He said: “The aim of the workshop is to retrain 4,070 primary school teachers.”

Prof. Sharehu said the gesture was to address the skill gaps of teachers at all levels, adding that the participants would be retrained in the focal areas identified by the institute.

According to him, “the teachers will be re-trained in the focal areas identified to address the skill gaps of teachers at all levels.”

He said NTI took time to select resource persons, who were competent and qualified to facilitate the programme.

Sharehu said the institute had the capacity to conduct any professional training for teachers.

His words: “Let me assure you that the institute has the capacity to conduct professional training for teachers.

“We also have a comparable advantage of sourcing most qualified and competent resource persons for any workshop.”

Prof. Sharehu said NTI was working with seasoned teachereducators to ensure that its programmes were subjected to review to address the areas of need.

He added that the institute had also engaged experts from institutions to examine the structure and contents of its selfinstructional materials.

THE NATION TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2014

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NEWS

Baby stolen from Asaba church returned 13 days after

A

N eight month-old baby stolen a fortnight ago from a church in Asaba has been returned by unknown persons.

Daresimi Olaleye was returned in the night last Friday to a Pentecostal church where it was stolen.

The child was suspected to have been stolen by a mystery woman when its mother, a chorister, was singing.

The baby’s return caused jubilation among church members and the Olaleye family.

Our reporter learnt that the baby was returned at 7pm last Friday with a letter strung to its neck.

Daresimi’s father Victor said the child was discovered at the entrance to the church with the letter attached to his neck.

According to him, the woman wrote: “Please, you people should forgive me. I did not mean any harm. I am a

From Okungbowa Aiwerie, Asaba

childless woman; a pastor of a church directed me to steal a child and keep it for 14 days and that at the end of the last day, I would be pregnant and give birth to children of my own. So, I acted on the instruction the pastor gave to me.

Again, you can see that the child is healthy, because I took care of him. I am troubled; I could not keep the child b ecause I learnt that the pastor of the church, where the child was stolen and other church members had cursed me.”

Olaleye quoted the woman, saying: “I am using this opportunity to beg God, the

church and the parents of the boy to forgive and reverse the curse placed on me and help me to pray so that I can have my own children.”

Our reporter also learnt that the letter had been delivered at the Police ‘A’ Division in Asaba, the state capital, where the matter is being investigated.

On how he received the news of his child’s return, Olaleye said: “When the pastor phoned me that there was a baby that had been found on the church premises, I did not believe that it could be my child. But when I got there and discovered that it was my eight-month old baby boy, I was full of joy and began to praise God and worship Him

for His mercies towards the family. My wife, Chioma, could not hold herself: she burst into tears of joy.”

He added: “We are happy; my family is thanking all, particularly the church members who prayed and fasted with us for the 13 days the child was missing. We also thank the police for the prompt attention given to the matter.”

The pastor of the church, Godfery Oshilim, said members heard the baby’s cry on the church premises.

He said the church was happy at the return of the baby, adding that the members were still praying that God would expose the perpetrator.

•Bauchi State Governor Isa Yuguda of Bauchi (right) presenting an appointment letter to Commissioner for Justic, Mr Muktar Abubakar, in Bauchi ... yesterday.

Maternal deaths rising From Mike Odiegwu, Yenagoa

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HE Chief Consultant Gynaecologist at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, Dr. Andrew Igbafe, has decried increasing maternal mortality rate in the state.

The expert said eight expectant mothers died of complications in the last six months in the state.

Igbafe traced increasing mortality rate among expectant mothers to some cultural and religious beliefs.

He noted that most women still believed that health care could only be provided for them during pregnancy by traditional birth attendants and herbalists.

Igbafe spoke yesterday in Yenagoa at a lecture with the theme: Safe Motherhood in Bayelsa, organised by the Eshama Education and Research Centre (EERS).

Funeral rites for businessman

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PROMINENT businessman in Ondo, Ondo State, Emmanuel Akintola Akinsunmi, is dead. He was 63.

One of the founders of The Knights, a socio-cultural club, Akinsunmi was the Chairman of Tolem Nigeria Limited.

He died on October 29 and is survived by his wife, Abike Remilekun Akinsunmi; four children Akinniran, Bodunrin, Tope and Akinlolu; a granddaughter and other family members.

A service of songs holds today at his Lagos home at Oke-Ira, Ogba, Ikeja. The wake keep will hold on Thursday at his Road 9, Fagun Estate, Ondo home in Ondo State. He will be buried on Friday at his Ondo home.

•The late Akinsunmi

Oshilim said: “Though we are happy that the child was brought back, we are still praying to God to expose the suspect. She must come forward and ask for forgiveness before the curse placed on her will be lifted.

“I am saying this because the suspect dropped the child with a letter begging for forgiveness.

We are ready to forgive but she should come out so that we can know we are to forgive her.”

The cleric said security had been tightened at the church, particularly on Sundays when two policemen guard the place, besides recruiting more church members to keep vigil on the church.

PHOTO: NAN

Abducted reporters recount ordeal in Tompolo’s den Fourteen reporters from Warri, Delta State, who were abducted on Sunday and held hostage by followers of former Ijaw militant leader, Chief Government Ekpemupolo, were again detained in Warri by the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Delta for a “debriefing”. They relive their experiences in the hands of their abductors

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HE reporters from various media houses were returning from a community rally and media briefing held by the Itsekiri at Ogidigben in Warri Southwest Local Government Area.

The 14 reporters, with six members of the Ogidigben community, were returning to Warri from Ogidigben when they were ambushed by suspected militants near Oporoza and were marched off their route into a compound in the community.

It was learnt that attempts to rescue the abducted reporters were blocked by their abductors. It was through a higher security reinforcement the abductors released them.

A security source, who spoke in confidence yesterday, said: “We have it on authority that those who abducted the journalists were very displeased that we rescued you unhurt from them.

So, it is our duty to see to your safety to your doors and be sure you are secure in-

deed.”

The reporters included the Regional Editor, South-South of The Nation, Shola O’Neil and his Warri correspondent, Bolaji Ogundele. Others are: Regional Editor of Vanguard, Emma Amaize; Regional Editor of Leadership, Shola Adebayo and Warri correspondent of National Daily, Emma Arubi.

Also abducted were: Awoso Harry of Delta Broadcasting Service (DBS) Warri; Olu Philis and Paulinus Odedeyi of Channels Television; Osarose Sadoh and Alex Omoniyi, of Africa Independent Television (AIT); Anthony Ebule, Celestine Ukah, Josephine Ughweri and Victoria Nwaeze, all of Fresh Angle, a Warri-based tabloid.

The victims was allegedly abducted to prevent them from carrying the views of Ogidigben residents to readers and viewers of the media houses as they were held back throughout the day, when they were intimidated by their abductors.

Also, another incident involving an open demonstration by masked men and a media briefing was held at the same Oporoza. It was attended by most of the reporters abducted on Sunday.

The reporters were taken about 1pm some kilometres from Oporoza Jetty and taken to the militants’ base where they were held hostage and tormented till they were handed over to a joint team of naval officers and soldiers at 7pm.

Narrating their experience in the hands of the abductors to

our reporter at the NNS Delta base in Warri, some of the reporters said they escaped the den with God’s help.

The reporters said the militants threatened them with death.

Ukah said the assailants, who arrived in six boats, violently commandeered their boat, asking the captain to stop it.

The reporter said the militants took the boat away into a small waterway leading into the community.

He said: “When they closed in on us from different directions, shouting menacingly on the captain to pull over, some of us were terrified, especially the female reporters among us.

They started using all sorts of things to hit those they could touch. Some people sustained injuries at that point; in fact, some were bleeding.

“They demobilised the boat carrying us and transferred us into one of their boats and took us by a small waterway to a huge compound, which I later gathered belongs to Tompolo.

They started profiling us by writing our names: the journalists on the list and the other occupants of the boat, who seemed like they were targets because they knew some of the people who attacked us.

“Then, they separated the other six people from us and started beating them with everything in sight. They threatened us as they did that. They asked all of us to submit everything on us - our bags, cameras, phones and other personal belongings, except our identity cards. Later, one of them raised

the alarm that he had found a loaded pistol and extra rounds of bullets.

“Moments later, they received a call and demanded for the Itsekiri among us to join the people on the floor. When nobody came out, they called out to know Emma Arubi, an Itsekiri man. They asked him to join the people on the floor.

They descended on him brutally, accusing him of writing ‘nonsense’ against their leader (Tompolo). For about two hours after they started drilling us, one of them ran up from the river, holding a gun. He was covered in a wet coverall; he alleged that it was found on the boat we were travelling in.

“At that point, the boys went into a frenzy. They descended more heavily on those on the floor and threatened to kill us, alleging that we were coming to kill them before they rounded us up.”

He said the reporters were handed over to the joint security personnel from the army and the navy.

Arubi of Daily Independent also recounted how his tormentors attempted to frame him up as a gun runner.

He said the militants forced him to hold a rifle, take photographs with it and sent out the pictures on social media, especially facebook, tagging him a criminal and a gunrunner.

At the time of filing this report, the 14 reporters were still being held at the naval base in Warri, where authorities said they were waiting for signals for their release from Abuja.

Police kill two ‘robbers’ in Edo From Osagie Otabor, Benin

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OLICEMEN in Edo State killed yesterday two suspected armed robbers.

The suspected robbers were reportedly killed during a shootout with the police when they were fleeing a robbery scene.

A statement by police spokesman, Moses Uwoh, a Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP), said the robbers robbed the occupants of a block of flats on Ugbor Road at the Government Reservation Area (GRA) in Benin, the state capital.

Uwoh said policemen on patrol responded to a distress call from the residents, adding that they engaged the robbers in shootout.

The police spokesman said two of the robbers were fatally wounded while the third escaped with bullet wounds.

He gave the names of the robbers as Owie Osas (22) and Emmanuel Ufuafu, adding that they died when they were being taken to the hospital for treatment.

PDP elders deplore attack on Imoke

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LDERS and stakeholders in Akwa Ibom State Southern Senatorial Zone of the Peolpes Democratic Party (PDP) have criticised former Cross River State Governor Donald Duke and Senate Leader Victor Ndom-Egba for alleged campaign of calumny against Governor Liyel Imoke.

Addressing reporters yesterday in Calabar, the state capital, the party elders and stakeholders said they could no longer be indifferent to the alleged macabre dance and destructive campaign by Duke and Ndoma-Egba against Imoke.

They took a swipe at what they called Duke’s and his cohorts’ “desperate and febrile attempt” to foist a governorship aspirant on the state.

The stakeholders warned that not again would they allow the former governor and those on his side to have their way.

Prof Nya Asuquo, who spoke on behalf of the group, said: “We, as senior citizens of Cross River State and bona fide members of the PDP in our rights, cannot be indifferent to the macabre dance and campaign of calumny and destruction orchestrated by ...Duke, Ndom-Egba and their cohorts.

“It saddens us that these people, who have benefited the most from the good people of Cross River State are now bent on dragging the state back to the Stone Age because they believe they must always have their way, no matter what happens to the rest of the populace.”

Asuquo, who reading a statement by 22 elders of the party, added: “These people believe it is their birthright to give Cross River people the governor of their choice... They believe they should import a governorship candidate from Abuja and foist him on us, whether we like it or not.”

8

THE NATION TUESDAY NOVEMBER 18, 2014

‘

RACE TO 2015

What we are witnessing today in Nigeria is not governance, but misgovernance. We are witnessing a system that does not have the interest of the people of this country at heart. It is also incumbent on us as a people to vote out Goodluck Ebele Jonathan come 2015. That will bring peace, progress and development of Nigeria

‘

All Progressives Congress (APC) National Chairman Chief John Odigie-Oyegun reflects in the challenge of building a new Nigeria through the instrumentality of the ballot box. At a press conference in Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), he contends that the fledgling nation-state is still redeemable.

‘How to build a new Nigeria’ I

N the increasing atmosphere of rot and un certainty being foisted on our nation by the PDP, I address you as the National Chairman of the Party that is preparing itself to assume the awesome responsibility of governing our long suffering nation next year. Our party, the All Progressives Congress (APC),was formed as a result of the yearnings of the overwhelming majority of Nigerians for an alternative platform to change the trajectory of our beloved country. Many well-meaning Nigerians have asked me who we are; beginning from today we are going to have a weekly conversation with the Nigerian People to say who we are. All Nigerians, irrespective of their current party affiliation, who are dissatisfied with their personal circumstances and the national drift,and desire a change are welcome to join this movement led by the APC. Our movement is programmed to create a new Nigeria of which we will all, without exception, be proud.

With your overwhelming support and the free expression of your will, represented by your votes, the All Progressives’ Congress will by the grace of God next year commence the challenging but necessary process of charting a more secure and more prosperous future for us all.

Armed with your mandate, we will raise the standards of governance and condition of living of all citizens to levels which all Nigerians deserve as of right. We will stop the rot and the descent to uncertainty and disaster which the sixteen years of PDP misrule hasplunged us to as a nation. We will restore to Nigerians the hope and assurance that our nation can be made whole again, and that our leaders will submit themselves to the will and needs of our people.

In the next few weeks, our candidates for all elective positions in the February 2015 elections will emerge. Our party will conduct all processes for the selection of these candidates in strict and transparent compliance with our rules, and we will put forward candidates who will truly represent the people and work for a future full of hope, confidence, progress and peace. We have no doubt that Nigerians will vote for these candidates we will put up, because they will be agents of change, and they will be standing against agents of the status quo, who want to perpetuate this culture of deceit, divisiveness, incompetence and impunity that has continued to hold Nigeria back. We will ask Nigerians to vote for genuine and enduring change; change in the manner young Nigerians see their future; change in the attitude of leaders, from oppressive and arrogant leadership, to leadership anchored on respect for rule of law, fear of God and deep commitment to the service of the people; and change from a life of insecurity and daily threats to our lives and property to a life of maximum security and peace.

We are under no illusions about the magnitude of the task our party will be called to embark upon. It will be a massive challenge. But we draw strength and inspiration from the knowledge that the overwhelming majority of Nigerians recognize that a continuing PDP administration cannot guarantee Nigerians a future of prosperity, dignity and peace. We, in the APC, are in touch with the sentiments, aspirations and concerns of our people. To those who are now living and dying in occupied parts of our nation; to those who are displaced and living in refugee camps because their homeland is occupied by terrorists, to those who are in fear of the imminent occupation of their homeland by savage elements, we say help is on the way and positive change is near.

Our party will chart a new course of recovery and regeneration for our nation. We will set very high standards of respect for the rule of law, such that our nation will never again experience the unprecedented scale of impunity that has been the central feature of this PDP led administration. We see this impunity on display in the administration’s tyrannical reaction to the exercise of the right of the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. AminuWaziriTambuwal to change his party.

The Police arrogated to itself the power of the

judiciary to interpret the Constitution and withdrew the security details of the Speaker. The illegal and high-handed action by the Police in removing the security details of a sitting Speaker of the House of Representatives has attracted strong and widespread condemnation from within and outside Nigeria. The Department of Security Services, a service which washitherto insulated from partisan politics have also been directed and has similarly withdrawn its operatives from the Speaker.

We see another manifestation of the PDP administration’s fondness for impunity and its disturbing tendency to cuddle corruption, in the recent release to Capital Oil Ltd all its assets hitherto lawfully acquired by AMCON as a result of its said involvement in the fuel subsidy scam. It is not a secret that the proprietor of Capital Oil is the coordinator or convener of the widely derided Transformation Ambassadors of Nigeria (TAN) that is at the forefront of the obscene and doomed campaign for the reelection of President GoodluckJonathan. A great nation like Nigeria should not be run with such crass disdain for decency, common sense and the rule of law.

Once in office, our party will govern with openness and transparency, and every kobo belonging to the public will be judiciously utilized and meticulously accounted for. We will call corruption by its name and fight it with the vehemence it deserves. We will restore the faith of the public in the necessity for leaders to live honestly and lead with vision, competence and compassion.

Our Party will collaborate and cooperate with the states in the true practice of a Federal relationship. We shall run an all-inclusive government and seek the views of all segments including the positive ideas of opposition parties in the formulation and execution of governmentpolicies.

An APC administration will rebuild and expand infrastructure; invest in human capital, particularly the Youth; deploy resources to provide jobs and employment opportunities and get our economy working again for all Nigerians. We shall work for the inclusive growth and development of our economy through massive job creation programs to ensure the reduction of poverty and the protection of the weak.

An APC Federal administration will unite all Nigerians by eliminating policies and sentiments such as religion and ethnicity which the PDP has deliberatelyexploited to divide the nation. We will restore the faith and confidence of Nigerians in each other, and ensure that no Nigerian anywhere suffers any disadvantage on account of his or her religious affiliation or ethnic origin. We will uphold the rule of law and protect the human rights of all our citizens.

The defense of the territorial integrity of our fatherland and the protection of the lives and property of all who live within our bordersshall be a non-negotiable priority of an APC Federal Government. We will reclaim every inch of Nigerian territory, and liberate fellow citizens who, under the current dispensation, are resigned to life as captured and conquered citizens. Our

armed forces will be massively motivated and given the necessary manpower and materials to enable them perform their sacred duty of protecting our country. Our people will be mobilized to support and honour our men and women in uniform who put their lives on the line to ensure that we are all protected.

To all Nigerians, I say, our party, the APC, will change Nigeria for good. We have the men and women who can do this because they passionately believe in Nigeria and are aggrieved by the 16 years of wasted opportunities under the PDP. We have developed the ideas and strategies to achieve this. We have the faith and confidence that this can be donein short order. We are resolved never to give up on Nigeria, or to abandon the imperatives of ensuring that the democratic process translates into better lives and opportunities for the present generation and a solid foundation to build an even better life for future generations. The only people who will fear, or resist, the type of change we represent and promise, are the tiny blood suckingminority who benefit from Nigeria’s current social and economic degradation.

Two days ago, you heard President Goodluck Jonathan announce himself as the candidate of the PDP and asked Nigerians for another four years as President. You heard a lot of claims, misrepresentations and voodoo statistics, none of which can stand the barest scrutiny. Disregard them! You heard excuses for failure to fix basic infrastructure, arrest unprecedented levels of corruption and halt the march of terrorists daily inching nearer all of us. You heard promises that sound familiar because you have heard them all before since his six (6) years as President. Do not give the party that has savaged Nigeria in the last 16 years an opportunity to finally finish off our dear nation. The PDP cannot deliver on any of the same promises it has failed to honourin over a decade and a half in power.

The 2015 election will be decided on the character and leadership qualities of the Nigerian President. The Commander-in-Chief should also be “Consoler-in-Chief” bringing comfort and succor to our people in time of grief and distress. You heard two days ago President Jonathan saying that good leaders do not walk away from the people, sadly though the statement is true, our President who wants another four years does not show evidence of sympathy for hundreds of thousands of our fellow citizens who are now Internally Displaced Persons(IDP) as a result of the occupation of their land by Boko Haram. He brings no relief or comfort to those living under the reign of terror. About 50 young Nigerian School Children were killed and several others injured in Potiskumjust a few days before the extravaganza show of his declaration. Yet we do not hear of a Presidential visit to the families of the victims, a pattern that has become usual. Our President lives in his comfort zone, content to utter words, and ‘minutes of silence’ that have no meaning to the victims.

The President has abandoned the Nigerian

• Chief Odigie-Oyegun

people. We should end the journey with President Goodluck Jonathan in 2015 and aelect leader who will be part of our lives and lead with courage and empathy.

I therefore appeal to all Nigerians to endeavour to collect their Permanent Voters Cards, and use them to vote out the PDP and vote in the brighter, safer and more prosperous future, which the APC represents. I call on INEC, the security agencies and other institutions of government to discharge their responsibilities courageously, fairly and firmly. Their prime responsibility is to the nation. I appeal to the international community to remain vigilant and continue to work with all Nigerians to ensure that the 2015 elections are credible. On our part, we remain committed to respecting the integrity of the electoral process, and we will discourage its subversion and will resist vigorously the use of violence, official or otherwise, to prevent the triumph of the will of the people.

It is with a sense of deep patriotism that we in the APC appeal to Nigerians to join us, because we need to work together to make Nigeria the great country it should be. I want to call on all Nigerians to work with us, support us and vote for our candidates in the forthcoming elections.

APC governments at all levels will be your governments, and we assure you that you will feel the difference in the very first few months of our administration at all levels. We assure our brother African nations who agonize over the decline in Nigeria’s leadership that our nation will rise again and give Africa the exemplary leadership it deserves. We assure the International Community particularly, our friends, that the APC treasures their friendship and treasures their concern for our nation. We assure them all that we will rebuild our capacities to operate at the global level as a responsible and responsive pillar of global governance, a beacon of hope for all mankind.

Former governor’s son joins Kwara governorship race

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WARA State Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain Alhaji Abdulhakem Lawal has promised to serve with diligence, if elected as the governor in next year’s election.

The aspirant is the son of the former governor, the late Alhaji Mohammed Lawal, who ruled between 1999 and 2003. His father was a chieftain of the defunct All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP).

Speaking with reporters in Ilorin, the state capital, Lawal promised to continue where Governor Abdulfatah Ahmed would stop, if elected next year.

The aspirant also promised to protect the interests of the diverse communities and foster good governance.

He said: “If an aspirant is truly contesting to

From Adekunle Jimoh, Ilorin

serve his or her people, then, I believe the person should have the capacity to determine such projects that will bring progress, relief and succour to his people. If that’s the case, I see no reason why he shouldn’t complete projects he met on ground because those are the same people you say you want to give relief and succor.”

The real estate developer-turned politician said he was in politics to contribute his quota to development and the quest for change.

Lawal added: “We are looking at generational change. Things have to be done differently.

Kwara State with meagre resources needs an innovative thinker and good resource manager to bring about desired changes in such areas as affordable housing, agricultural-based industri-

alisation, and human capital development through skill acquisition.”

The aspirant, who said he would support either consensus or primary election as contained in the party’s constitution, promised to develop technical education to encourage human capital growth.

He said: “We need to appreciate that our wealth is the comparative advantage in agriculture and human capital. A responsive and responsible government in the state needs a refocus on youth empowerment through agriculture and technical education, while government should attract investment in technical education.”

Lawal, who called for patience from Nigerians on the -going development efforts of President Goodluck Jonathan, said the President has performed well, based on what he met on ground and the resources available to the country.

9

THE NATION TUESDAY NOVEMBER 18, 2014

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RACE TO 2015

Proponents of zoning say the relative peace and unity prevailing in the state could be ascribed to the fact that political offices have been rotated since 1999 among the various zones

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Preparations for National Assembly elections are in top gear in Edo Central Senatorial District, which is perceived as the stronghold of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Correspondent OSAGIE OTABOR examines the war over zoning in the district.

Battle over zoning in Edo Central A

LL is not well with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo State. Aspirants who are protégés of the Chairman, Board of Trustees, Chief Tony Anenih, have drawn the battle line, ahead of next year’s general elections, over zoning of political offices.

The intention of the three lawmakers in the National Assembly to seek re-election, after eight years in the Upper Chamber, has reignited the zoning war, particularly in Edo Central.

The lawmakers-Senator Odion Ugbesia (Edo Central), Patrick Ikhariale, Igueben/Esan West/Esan Central Constituency) and Friday Itulah, Esan Northeast/Esan Southeast Constituency - are insisting on retaining their seats, despite the decision by the party caucus that they are not qualified to re-contest on the ground of zoning.

A statement by the Secretary of Edo Central PDP, Mr. Richard Okosun, following a caucus meeting at Uromi, said the seat occupied by Ugbesia was zoned to the old Okpebho Local Government Area. It added that the seat occupied by Ikhariale, who hails from Esan Central, was zoned to Esan West, while that of Itulah was zoned to Esan Southeast.

Proponents of zoning say the relative peace and unity prevailing in the state could be ascribed to the fact that political offices have been rotated since 1999 among the various zones.

They argued that the position was zoned to the old Okpebho Local Government Area between 1999 and 2007 when Professor Oserhiemen Osunbor, who hails from the area, represented the district. Similarly, they added that Senator Ugbesia, from Agbazilo, who took over in 2007, have since served two terms and is not qualified to recontest.

In the House of Representatives, the previous occupants of the two seats are Hon. Tony Aziegbemin, who hails from Esan Southeast and Gabriel Orbih who hails from Esan Central.

Aziegbemin was replaced in 2007 by Itulah, who hails from Esan Northeast, while Hon. Orbih was replaced

by Ikhariale from Esan Central.

Following the threat by the lawmakers to defect, if the party insisted on zoning. The chairman of the party, Chief Dan Orbih, visited the district and held meetings with the party executives and the aspirants. Orbih told the aspirants that the party recognises zoning, but urged whoever is willing to contest against the arrangement to test his or her strength in a free and fair primary election.

Senator Osunbor, urged the party to respect zoning by allowing a candidate for the Senate to emerge from old Okpebho Council as the incumbent from Agbazilo has spent eight years and is not eligible top re-contest.

According to Osunbor: “Twice, the national leader has spoken to us and he brought out references through the days of Obasanjo how people contested with him, even when they knew it was zoned to the South; Rimi and others came out, but the party will always support where they have zoned it to.

“I think that is what Orbih, the state chairman, told us today. There has always been zoning. From 1999, Osunbor went for eight years. Until then, our amiable Senator Odion

•Anenih

Ugbesia did not collect the form to go to the Senate; he was pushing for the governorship. But, when he did not get it, another aspirant from Okpebho got the ticket in the name of Clifford Ordia. They took it from Ordia and gave it to Senator Ugbesia. So, that it can be zoned. That is how it has been in Agbazilo for the past eight years.

So, naturally it should go back to Okpebho.”

Itulah said Uromi indigenes could only aspire to the National Assembly in 2023, if zoning arrangement was allowed. He said those proposing zoning are politicians in the locality, who could not win elections.

He said: “It started in 1999, when an indigene of Esan Southeast emerged as a member of the House of Representative. In 2007, it came to Esan North East. They are now saying it should return to Esan Southeast. That is their argument. We that are anti-zoning believe in merit. We must allow the people to choose. There is no distinction between Esan Northeast and Esan Southeast. We have lived as one local government known as Agbazilo.”

“Those arguing for zoning think that is what will favour them. David Mark has been there since 1999 and his people have endorsed him for a fifth tenure. His immediate deputy is return-

• Ugbesia

ing back to the Senate for the fourth time, Tambuwal is doing his third tenure. As far as the legislator is concerned, the constitution does not limit it. The older you are as a lawmaker, the more likely you are of becoming a principal officer. If you are a principal officer as a ranking member, nobody can equal you with a rookie, who is just coming in. What we say at the National Assembly is blessed is the constituency whose representative is a principal officer. This is the local government with the highest number of wards and the highest population.

This area is completely PDP. We have the opportunity of producing a legislator who has the potential of becoming a principal officer. Are we going to satisfy that on the altar of zoning?

Let the people decide who represents them. Democracy is about choice. We don’t want to have sudden death in our legislature.

“In our PDP constitution, under article seven, it says the party shall adhere to the principal of zoning based on fairness, equity and justice. If we have never had a principal officer in the whole of Edo since 1999, is that justice to us? For us now to have one, that is justice, that is fairness and equity. What will lead to all this is for us to put our best forward. The party is

•Itulah

saying it is unmindful of the fact that zoning is not in the constitution, but zoning is like the fundamental objectives and directive principal of state policy. Zoning is just objectives. It is not a tangible thing that is neither here or there.

“I was a councillor here. I was elected to the House of Assembly in 1997, but we were not sworn-in. In 1999, I was re-elected into the House of Assembly. In 2003, I became the Speaker and was later elected to the House of Representatives. There has not been a break in the consecutive succession.

The people have tested me and they know that if they continue to give me their backing, it means I have been able to give a fair representation and a fair account. “I am a pragmatic person. I have uncountable projects across the 21 wards. Anybody you see along the road provided the person is not a mad man, ask him who is Hon. Itulah and how is he representing us? I have attracted enough dividends of democracy. It is Hon. Samson Osagie and I that own the House of Representatives. Others have been asking why Edo State brought its first eleven.

There is no issue we did not contribute to; there is no law that will be strange to me. I have four bills that are laws now and nine motions that

became resolutions. Uromi and Uzea cannot afford to become by-standers.

It has never been. We did not inherit that from our ancestors and it will not happen in our own time. I have never supported zoning. Proponent of zoning are those who cannot win.”

A former Majority Leader in the House of Assembly, Hon. Frank Okiye, who is eyeing Itulah’s seat kicked against zoning arrangement because it would automatically disqualify him because he hails from Esan Northeast like Itulah.

Okiye adding that the PDP caucus only made an attempt to push for zoning, adding that it was resisted.

He said: “Zoning is a household name. It is to define a particular circumstance. Zoning has never been respected in the concept of one community against the other or one local government against the other. There has never been such. When I met Chief Anenih, he told me he was not going to respect zoning. Zoning was never there. Zoning should be targeted at winning elections. It should have a human face. You do not zone a position to a community that cannot win an election. We have laboured to build the PDP and we cannot be left out. We are going to resist it. The party belongs to all of us.

“Zoning or no zoning, the people will decide who they prefer. I am constitutionally eligible to contest within the party. I hope the present leadership of the party followed the due process in selecting candidates, otherwise there will be chaos.”

Deacon Sergius Ogun, who wants to represent Esan Southeast/Esan Northeast Federal Constituency said that the party leadership must abide by the zoning in the party’s constitution. He said zoning was for equity, justice and fair play and warned that any plan to jettison zoning could lead to crisis within the party.

Sergius added: “If you do not do that, only one part will be sending people to the Senate and State House of a Assembly. That will not be fair.

That is what leads to crisis. The party has said they would maintain zoning and I stand by it. If the party changes its mind, we will sit down and reconsider everything.”

‘We need credible candidates in Plateau’

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LATEAU State youths have been urged to vote for candidates, based on their credibility and quality, in next year’s general elections.

The senator representing Plateau North in the National Assembly, Senator Gyang Pwajok, gave the advise in an interactive forum with a group of youths under the agies of the Young Redemption Advocates in Jos. According to Senator Pwajok, “2015 election should not be determined by any sentiment including religion, ethnic and zone. Plateau youths should break away the barrier of religious and ethnic sentiment, and support credible and competent candidates.

He said: “In my candid opinion, what is good for Plateau people now is to make credibility and quality their criteria for electing candidates into all the contest able offices, as a

From Yusufu Aminu Idegu, Jos

people we cannot succeed on any other sentiments.

“It is only in this parts of the world that your village, your senatorial zone and your ethnic group determine your future. As Plateau Youths, we must break the barrier of ethnicity in our state to give room for credibility and competence, we must collectively work hard to give our state the best of what we have.

“We are happy that governor Jonah David Jang did not disappoint the people of Plateautate and he believed that the young people have the capacity to deliver the state, that is why today he is a strong advocates of handing over power to the youths in 2015” Pwajok said: “What the governor has done is a standard and we will continue to build on it” adding that, the Plateau youths has a future that is rushing with high speed and urged

them to be prepared to summon the challenges without fear of anyone.

“We must put zoning, tribe, village and Senatorial zones aside and forge ahead with the vision of having young person to lead plateau state. Plateau Youths must be prepare to compete favourably with their counterparts in other states of the federation” He lamented over the attitudes of some politicians, who believed in aborting one administration midway to join another. He described the quest for zoning in Plateau state as a deliberate attempt by group of selfish individuals to divide the People.

The leader of the Coalition of Young Redemption Advocates, Radzie Jugo, said that Plateau Youths believed in the ability of Sen. Pwajok due to his intellectual capacity to lead the state to a promise land.

He noted that Plateau people are yearning for continuity and that they

•Pwajok

cannot afford to support anyone who does not properly understand the vision of the redemption government of Governor Jang.

Jugo, who is Plateau State Liaison Officer Kaduna, added that Pwajok is the brain behind the success story of the administration, adding that as he has maintained cordial and mutual relationship with the governor.

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THE NATION TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2014

NEWS Akinlade flays calumny campaign

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PEOPLES Democratic Party (PDP) governorship aspirant in Ogun State, Abiodun Akinlade, has condemned a story circulating on the social media that he was working with the opposition.

The report alleged that Akinlade was “romancing” former Governor Olusegun Osoba and his Social Democratic Party (SDP) to work against PDP’s interest.

Akinlade said it was wicked for anyone to link him to a clandestine meeting with any opposition group.

He said the people of Ogun State and the Egba should not allow unscrupulous individuals to “pollute” their minds .

The aspirant said he remained a committed and loyal PDP member, adding that he won’t respond to evil talks of feebleminded individuals.

Woman charged with manslaughter

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From Adesoji Adeniyi, Osogbo

WOMAN, Funmilola Oyetunji, has been arraigned at an Osogbo Magistrate’s Court for alleged manslaughter.

She was charged with reckless driving, which caused the death of five- year-old Banji Ishola and injured his grandmother, Taiwo Olumide.

The accused reportedly committed the offence on September 29, at Ofatedo Junction, Dada Estate, Osogbo.

The prosecutor, Fagboyinbo Abiodun, a police inspector, told the court that she drove recklessly, thereby causing the accident. Mrs. Oyetunji pleaded not guilty.

The defence counsel, Teju Kolawole, urged the court to grant his client bail.

The Magistrate, M.A. Lasisi, granted her bail of N500,000 and two sureties. The judge said the sureties must be her husband and one of her parents.

He adjourned the case till January 26.

•HONORARY AWARD RECIPIENTS: (from left) Chief Wole Olanipekun (SAN); Prof. Wole Soyinka; Emeritus Prof. Tekena Tamuno and Emeritus Prof. Theophilus Ogunlesi at the University of Ibadan’s Convocation and Foundation Day in Ibadan…yesterday.

Old Ondo PDP members to meet Mark

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From Leke Akeredolu, Akure

LD Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) leaders in Ondo State have set up a 12-man committee to meet with Senate President David Mark and PDP Board of Trustees (BOT) Chairman Tony Anenih.

This followed the failure of the faction led by Governor Olusegun Mimiko and the old PDP to agree on a sharing formula of party structures at a meeting with the president, vice president and other party leaders.

The committee members, drawn from the three senatorial districts, are expected to table their resolutions from a meeting held on Sunday at Jimoh Ibrahim’s house at Igbotako, Okitipupa Local Government Area.

The resolutions are nobody would tamper with the executive committee until March 2016 when its tenure will end and all aspirants who had been disqualified by the screening committee must be cleared.

Some members of the committee include Femi Adekanmbi, Olu Agunloye, Benson Enikuomehin, Olusola Agbesua, Akin Akingbesote, and Femi Omosanya.

Award for Sunny Ade

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From Bisi Oladele, Ibadan

YO State Governor Abiola Ajimobi has conferred the “Emperor of Music” award to juju maestro Sunday Adegeye (aka King Sunny Ade).

The governor gave him the award when the musician presented his new album to him in his office in Ibadan yesterday. The album is titled: “Ajimobi”.

Ajimobi said he was proud of the achievements of the musician, pointing out that he has promoted the Yoruba and African culture.

“We are proud of your achievements and we are proud of you. We thank you. On behalf of the government and people of Oyo State, I hereby confer you with the Emperorship award,” he said.

Oyo compensates 235 landlords

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YO State Governor Abiola Ajimobi distributed yesterday cheques to the first batch of 235 people whose properties were affected by the dualisation of roads in Ibadan, Ogbomoso, Oyo and Iseyin.

The governor, at the presentation in Ibadan, said the compensation was an attestation to his administration’s determination to ensure that the affected people were not denied their rights.

Represented by the Commissioner for Lands, Isaac Omodewu, the governor reiterated his administration’s determination to ameliorate the pains caused by the expansion of roads.

He said all genuine claimants with documents that had been duly verified would receive their compensation in subsequent phases.

“The government considered it necessary to compensate the citizens who, through their votes, made the existence of our administration possible.

“Let me note that our great party, All Progressives Congress (APC), has set a record. Without mincing words, our expansionist programme has given birth in several forms to infrastructural development evident across the state,’’ Ajimobi said.

Some of the beneficiaries, Madam Rafatu Odunola, Adeyinka Oluwafemi and Biliaminu Kareem, praised the governor for fulfilling his promise.

•From left: Bursar Olaniyi Aponmade; Pro-Chancellor Maj.-Gen. Adeyinka Adebayo; representative of the President Malam PHOTOS: NAN Ibrahim Shekarau and Vice-Chancellor Prof. Isaac Adewole…yesterday.

A

‘Gang leader’ killed in Ede

TWENTY-THREE ye ar - o l d “gan g leader” in Ede, Osun State, Lukman Olalekan, was killed yesterday.

Olalekan, alias Elemo, was said to have been killed at 5am by his colleagues over owo omo onile (money collected by area boys from property owners).

Elemo, believed to be the leader of the Atapara gang, escaped from his house at Ikolaba early yesterday.

A source said the deceased was chased to his friend’s house before his attackers repeatedly hit him on the head with heavy planks and cow bones.

He said: “Olalekan was planning to use the N250000 he collected from the owo omo onile to finance a family function, the Igala festivals.

•23 suspects arrested •Adeleke calls for peace From Adesoji Adeniyi, Osogbo

“He was attacked because he allegedly refused to share the money with his colleagues.

“He was dragged on the floor and bled profusely.

His wife was hospitalised after she heard the news.

“The fracas started late Sunday evening, the area boys had gone to his house, burnt his boxes of juju but he escaped, until he was killed yesterday.”

Olalekan’s body was said to have been put in a wheelbarrow and brought to the Timi of Ede‘s palace.

This sparked off clashes at Roundabout, Ogberin Junction, Atapa Junction, Orita Oloki Junction and other parts of Ede. It was gathered that

shops were looted by hoodlums, who carted away mobile phones and fabrics, among others.

Pupils on their way to school were stranded. Parents, whose wards were in school when the crisis started, had a hectic time picking them, as commercial motorcyclists and taxi drivers were not available.

The late Olalekan’s family house at Laoye Compound was razed by hoodlums.

Police spokesperson Mrs. Folasade Odoro said 23 persons had been arrested.

Former Governor Isiaka Adeleke appealed to the people to embrace peace.

Adeleke said: “I am saddened by the incident in our town.

“I’m not happy that

some people took the law into their own hands, resulting in killing and maiming among the hoodlums.

“This act of lawlessness is most uncalled for. It is to say the least, an act capable of derailing the peace, for which Ede is noted for.

“I am calling on all the perpetrators to stop because we have no other town to call our own.

“I praise officers and men of the Nigeria Army Engineers, Ede, the Directorate of State Security and the police, for rising up to the occasion promptly.

“I appeal to them to help us prevent reprisal attacks.

I also call on the government to act with precision, impose a dusk-to-dawn curfew to enable my people sleep with well.”

and was working to ensure its dissolution.

Speaking through his Chief Press Secretary, Abraham Ojo, Alao-Akala said yesterday that at no time did he make either covert or overt efforts to take over the party exco.

He noted that the claim by the Vice Chairman, Solomon Ogunjimi, was ridiculous and absurd.

A party chieftain, Adebisi Olopoenia, has described the reports as cheap blackmail.

Olopoenia said it was an attempt by some desperate governorship aspirants to misinform the public to create hatred for the former governor.

“There was never any attempt by Alao-Akala to dissolve Oyo PDP exco. This is the handiwork of his political enemies and they will not succeed.

“It is not possible to dissolve our party exco at this crucial hour and Ogunjimi, who is leading this allegation, has no place in Oyo politics.”

Alao-Akala: no plans to sack Oyo PDP exco From Oseheye Okwuofu and Tayo Johnson, Ibadan

•Alao-Akala

F

ORMER Oyo State Governor Adebayo Alao-Akala has denied

any attempt to sack the Akeem Yinka Taiwo-led State Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Executive Council.

His reaction followed the allegations linking him to a petition seeking the dissolution of the executives who he accused of not living up to expectation.

The former governor was accused of being too critical of the Yinka Taiwo-led exco

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Govt launches $50m Venture Capital Fund From Augustine Ehikioya,

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Abuja

HE Federal Govern ment yesterday launched a $50 million Venture Capital Fund also known as the YouWin Small and Medium Enterprise fund.

It was launched alongside the fourth round of the Youth Enterprise With Innovation in Nigeria (YouWin) programme.

YouWin, which started in 2011, is an entrepreneurial scheme designed for entrepreneurs aged between 18 and 45 years aimed at creating jobs by helping winners to strengthen and expand existing businesses as well as turn innovative ideas into solid businesses.

Speaking at the launch, President Goodluck Jonathan said the new enterprise fund would enable those who have won previous grants from the YouWin programme take their businesses to the next level.

According to him, the fund which needs a seed capital of $50 million would require hard work on the side of government, adding that if government works hard it can attract more investors to contribute to ongoing effort.

He said: “This fund will identify and further empower a few of you, some who are here and some new people that will join us, that are interested in expanding what they already have through the you win or even starting new businesses.”

He said the new fund will be managed by independent fund managers alongside the government and “you will not need to know somebody to access it”.

He said selection will be highly competitive as it will be based strictly on merit.

He commended the efforts of the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the economy, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala who has successfully coordinated three batches of the YouWin programme.

He said from available records, the first and second edition of the YouWin has created 22,000 jobs.

11 There is nothing wrong in having a robust renewable energy programme in the country. In fact, government has taken a step in that direction by introducing the: ‘Light Up Nigeria’ scheme.

- Director-General, National Power Training Institute of Nigeria, Rueben Okeke

Telecoms sector ends Q3 with 49.6m inactive lines

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HE telecoms sector ended third quarter (Q3) with a total of 49,641,091 inactive phone lines while it recorded 134.5 million active telephone lines. It also grew teledensity to 96.08 per cent, latest data released by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has shown.

Online free encyclopedia, Wikipedia, defined telephone density or teledensity ‘as the number of telephone connections for every hundred individuals living within an area. It varies widely across the nations and also between urban and rural areas within a country. Telephone density has significant correlation with the per capita (GDP) of the area. It is also used as an indicator of economic development of the country or specific region.’

The data released by the regulator showed that telecoms networks in the country recorded additional 1.3 million lines in September alone, having grown from 133.2 million to 134.5 million at the end of Septem-

CBN governor presents N2b to Delta MSME From Okungbowa Aiwerie,

• Grows subscribers to 134.5m

By Lucas Ajanaku

ber of this year.

The figure represents the total active telephone lines on the networks of MTN, Airtel, Glo and Etisalat, all operators of Global System for Mobile communications (GSM), the sick Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) operators as well the fixed line operators.

The dormant phone lines and increase in subscriber figures are the key highlights of the subscribers’ numbers showing the gap between the 184,148,420 connected lines and 134,507,329 active lines that bring revenue to the coffers of the operators as well as the Federal Government.

A breakdown of the latest data showed that of the 134.5 million telephone subscriptions, GSM companies had 131.9 million; CDMA segment had 2.4 million while total fixed lines connected is 190,719.

Since last year December

and end of September this year, combined active subscriber base has grown in significantly, driving telephone penetration and thus sustaining Nigeria’s status as fastest growing in the global telecoms market.

From December last year, when the mobile subscription stood at 127.6 million; the figure increased to 127.9 million in January; 129 million in February while by the end of first quarter ending March, the figure declined to 127 million.

In April, the figure increased to 129.3 million; 131.1 million in May and in June, the figure rose to 132.7 million telephone lines.

Also in July, active mobile subscriptions declined slightly to 132.1 but increased again to 133. 2 million while the figure reached 134.5 million by the end of September, according to the Commission’s latest official industry data.

Over the last one decade, while subscriber figures

T • Juwah

continue to go up, quality of service (QoS) has remained an issue.

With her huge land mass and population, the number of bas transmission stations (BTS) available in the country is under less than 30,000 while a smaller country such as Britain has more than 60,000 BTS. But in spite of the challenges, Executive Vice Chairman, NCC, Dr Eugene Juwah said sector has done well, insisting that no any sector has done as much as the telecoms sector.

He said no sector runs 24/ 7 in the country, providing services to the people but the telecoms sector.

Cement price cut: Dangote denies monopolistic tendencies

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• Group CFO UBA Capital Plc, Mr. Sunny Anene, (left) being conferred with the Fellowship Award of the Chartered Institute of Stockbrokers (CIS) by President/Chairman of Council, CIS, Mr. Albert Okumagba, at the CIS Conference & Investiture of Fellows, at Intercontinental Hotel, Lagos.

Inability to access N10b cassava bread funds worries farmers

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ASSAVA in the country farmers have raised the alarm over their inability to access the N10 billion cassava bread fund.

They alleged that instead of giving them funds, they were given pesticides/herbicides.

The cassava farmers ought to access part of the funds through the Nigeria Cassava Growers Association (NCGA) to grow cassava in their respective farmlands across the country.

Some of the farmers who spoke with our reporter on condition of anonymity lamented inability to access the fund.

One of the farmers, from Fagun in Ondo State, said only

Asaba

HE Governor of Cen tral Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Godwin Emefiele yesterday in Asaba, Delta State capital presented the cheque of N2billion to the Delta State government for onward disbursement to micro, small and medium entrepreneurs (MSMEs) across the state.

Speaking during the ceremony to officially roll out the funds, the apex bank chief said the loans which would be disbursed to MSME entrepreneurs would attract a single digit interest rate.

He urged beneficiaries to make judicious use of the loans, insisting that the grant was free gift even as he implored them to cultivate the habit of good credit and repay loans as at when due to enable them get another.

Emefiele said CBN launched the intervention scheme in recognition of MSMEs as a catalyst for rapid economic growth, poverty reduction and job creation across the globe.

He commended the Delta State government for having a well-coordinated programme of poverty reduction.

Receiving the cheque, the state governor, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan assured the CBN governor that the funds will get to the intended beneficiaries and announced that his administration would take care of the interest rate on behalf of the beneficiaries.

From Frank Ikpefan, Abuja

herbicides had been given to the 33 members who grow cassava in Fagun. He noted that despite several visits to his farm by members of the association, he was yet to receive any money.

He said: “They have been to our farms three times now.

They even asked us to put up signposts in the farm to be sure if we are the owners of the farms. Is there anybody who does not know that the farms belong to us?

“There is no money to maintain the cassava we have planted on the farm. We are like 33 in number growing cas-

sava I can’t even pay the people working for me now.

“They just promised and since they promised us, they have not put the money into our accounts. They said they have released it but they have not paid us. Our pass book is with them together with the money we put there. We have not been given anything. Only herbicides have been given to us.”

Another farmer from Ile Oluji, Ondo State also denied receiving money from the body. He said: “I have not got any money from the fund. I don’t know when we will receive the money but they said very soon.”

Another farmer in ADP, Ondo said: “Cassava stem that has not gotten to us. It is the one we have planted on our own. We have planted some on our own. They have come to check it from Abuja. Even they took the photograph. We were all there. But as I speak with you, money has not been released to us.”

But the National President NCGA, Pastor Segun Adewumi said the association had used its own money to help farmers establish their farms.

He said N708 million was supposed to be used to develop cassava stems, N912 million on land preparation, while N706

million was expected to be used to purchase herbicides and fertiliser.

He said: “We have already used our money to help farmers establish the farms. So we have given them some advance. It was N708million is for cassava stem. N912million is for what we call land preparation that is tractor work and everything. “The balance, I think it was N706million or something is for herbicides and fertilisers. This is what we did even before the government ever brought the money.

We have our own money, we pre-financed it then the government inspects it, then go and pay.”

ANGOTE Cement has denied exhibiting monopolistic tendencies in the cement sector.

Its management said the price cut was not motivated by any monopolistic tendencies but informed by the need to lessen the yoke of the ordinary Nigerian and give them an opportunity to own their own homes.

The denial is coming as the Federal Government, stakeholders in the cement sector as well as shareholders have hailed the firm over its huge investments in cement as well as the recent slash in the price of the commodity, describing it as unprecedented.

Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment Olusegun Aganga who led others at a stakeholders meeting in Abuja said the decision of Dangote Cement to bring down the price of cement was a patriotic one in line with the aspiration of Nigerians and the Federal Government.

According to him, the Federal Government has attracted new private sector investments in cement sector to the tune of $7billion within three years.

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TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2014

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TRANSPORTATION

E-mail: ynotaderibigbe@gmail.com

Rail line rehabilitation 90% completed, says minister

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HE rehabilitation of the narrow gauge rail lines throughout the country are over 90 percent completed, the Minister of Transport, Senator Idris Umar, has said.

Umar, who spoke in his office, disclosed that the rehabilitation was the first phase of the 25-year strategic master plan for the Nigeria Railway.

He said the overhaul would promote efficiency.

The resuscitation of the railway by the Jonathan administration, Umar added, has created over one million jobs, both directly and indirectly in the last four years.

The minister said the jobs were created through the ongoing construction of new rail lines and the rehabilitation of existing ones which is a key component of the railway’s transformation agenda.

He noted that tied with the railway transformation is the desire to

•Begins new shuttle service in Lagos

Stories by Adeyinka Aderibigbe

reposition the nation’s economy for the overall benefit of Nigerians.

He said: “When this rehabilitation is completed, the Nigeria Railway would be able to increase its efficiency and this will no doubt have positive impact on the state of transportation which is presently experiencing tension as a result of the pressure on the roads.”

He said so much is taking place simultaneously in the railway subsector and when all eventually come on stream, the government would have been able to hand over to Nigerians, a modern, safe and reliable means of transportation in which they can be proud.

He said development appeared to be on the slow pace in the sector

because the sub-sector is capital intensive and most of the hardware and rolling stocks are produced strictly on demand.

Meantime, the NRC has added a new Train Shuttle Service (TSS), to be known as “short – hop” between Ikeja and Apapa to its growing array of mass transit services.

The service, which took off yesterday, November 10, will cost N400.

A statement by Mr. Muyiwa Adekanmbi, the Ikeja District Public Relations Officer, said, the shuttle was designed to relieve passengers’ stress on the roads due to traffic snarl which usually characterise these two major bus terminals in Lagos State.

Adekanmbi listed the various stopping stations along the route,

to include Iganmu, Ebute – Metta Junction, Yaba, Mushin, Oshodi and Ikeja, when the take-off is from Apapa and vice-versa.

He said: “The time schedule for the train service aimed at promoting individual or group bookings for a quick, stress-free and reduction in journey time trip from Ikeja at 12:45pm and 4:15pm, while the train is scheduled to take off at Apapa at 11:30am and 3:15pm.

He said the service is meant for passengers intending to embark on a faster and time saving travel time from two of the most famous commercial hubs in Lagos.

“This adds up as part of effort being put in place by the Management of the Corporation to relieve the stress intending passengers experience on our roads due to gridlock which

‘Safety on the road is everybody’s business’

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•Ogagaoghene (second right), cutting the tape to inaugurate the electricity project. With him are Adetunji (second left), Akunne (right) and the Coordinator Royal Eagle Unit , Special Marshals, Sagamu, Mr Solanke Matthew Akintoye.

By Olalekan Ayeni

Company, all in Ogun State, for spearheading the electrification of the unit’s office.

He expressed joy that the command will soon begin to enjoy electricity, which it has lacked for several years.

Akunne said: “This is the first time in the history of this command that we would operate with electricity

since 2007.

“Electrification has been quite elusive to the command, thereby reducing the operational quality and standard.”

Akunne said the command would no longer work under stress and frustration, because of the kind gesture of the two companies adding that the electricity would improve the environment.

The FRSC, Lagos and Ogun States Zonal Commanding Officer Mr.

Godwin Ogagaoghene and Ogun State Sector Commander, Mr Adegoke Adetunji, praised the companies for the gesture.

Ogagaoghene, urged more corporate organisation’s partnership with the Corps to tackle all indiscipline causing accidents on the roads.

Ogagaoghene, said Nigeria can only overcome incessant crashes, if only everybody can be involved in tackling the lawlessness among the motorists.

‘Install CCTV in garages, jetties’

O strengthen security in all motor parks, garages and jetties and prevent attacks on innocent travellers, during and beyond the “Ember” months, stakeholders in the transportation sector have recommended the installation of Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) and other security gadgets by all states, including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), for sustained and effective security surveillance.

They said such devices, strategically installed in all motor parks, garages and jetties, would help stem the activities of terrorists who in recent times have targeted such public places, leaving on their trail wanton destruction of lives and properties.

It called for the full implementation of the National Counter Terrorism Strategy (NACTES) which was developed by the office of the National Security Adviser to reduce violent attacks, insecurity and unsafe transportation nationwide.

In a communiqué issued at the end of the week-long 14th edition of the National Council on Transport (NCT), which held at the Nike Lake

Resort, in Enugu State, they urged all levels of government to continue to fund and subsidise mass transit operations, and to develop an end- oflife vehicles management policy in their respective states.

The Council which is the highest advisory body on transportation tasked the federal and state governments to ensure that all vehicles, including fleet vehicles owned by corporate organisations and used for commercial purposes are registered and a regular enumeration of such vehicles are carried out periodically to ensure safety and security of commuters.

They approved a stakeholders committee headed by the Federal Ministry of Transport, with membership drawn from the states and the FCT, Federal Road Safety Corps and other agencies to standardise among others: the classification of drivers’ licence; regulation of driving school and the structuring of pre-licence theory and practical tests for learner.

Others are the issuance of permits to driving schools, structuring of drivers’ training and the pre-licence

Vacate all Federal roads, Fed Task Force orders LASTMA

A

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HE Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Coleman Wire and Cable Company, Mr. George Onafowokan, has called on corporate organisations and individuals to support the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) to enhance safety of lives and property on the roads.

Onafowokan made the plea at the official inauguration of the FRSC Sagamu Unit’s light project.

He said: “Safety on the road is everyone’s business and it should not be left to one agency.”

He urged corporate organisations, religious leaders, individuals and leaders of the various transport unions to sponsor workshops, train and sensitise drivers, , especially heavy duty drivers and other road users on road safety tips.

Onofowokan who noted that 75 per cent of Nigerian drivers lacked adequate knowledge of safe driving and safety tips, said this ignorance contributes immensely to road crashes in the country.

He appealed to the drivers to drive carefully and shun all form of indiscipline as the Christmas rushing draw close.

The Sagamu Unit Commander, Mr Benedict Akunne, in his speech thanked Flakky Group of Companies and Coleman Cable and Wire

characterise these two main points from where the train will be initiating and disembarking. This is also expected to help reduce congestions on Apapa road which constitute a major headache for users of that road following various reports from the public,” he said.

The newly purchased Diesel Multiple Units (DMU) will be used for this service. The DMU have remarkable features such as air conditioner, enough leg room, and comfortable seats among other unique qualities. They were incorporated into the services of the NRC early this year.

tests of riders of motorcycles and tricycles as it obtains for motor drivers.

They urged states to equip their Vehicle Inspection Offices (VIO) for effective and efficient performance.

The council urged the Federal Government to collaborate with the states to ensure the dredging of the inland waterways in all states to accelerate and sustain the development of waterways as an efficient mode of transportation. They urged the states, FCT to provide enabling environment for the rapid and sustained development of inland water transportation in the country.

This, they said, remained the sure way to integrate water transportation with other modes of transportation in order to enhance seamless movement of persons and goods.

Financial institutions are encouraged to provide grants and loans to service providers in the water transport sub-sector for the development, modernisation and expansion of their fleet and other facilities in order to promote water transportation and reduce pressure on the nation’s roads.

It urged all states to strictly enforce all existing laws on pollution to abate

pollution of the waterways, even as it called on all relevant authorities to regularly remove ship wrecks and derelicts on the waterways.

They urged the Federal Ministry of Transport to direct the Nigeria Maritime Administration and safety Agency (NIMASA), which is the authorised receiver of all wrecks on the nation’s waters to establish facilities for the breaking, recycling and processing of wrecks for wealth creation and employment generation.

The council strongly advised the Federal Government to liaise and collaborate with states for the purpose of developing projects and programmes located in states and aimed at improving mass transportation.

The council called on the Ondo State Government to collaborate with the Federal Government on the take-off of the Alape River Port in Ilaje Local Government to promote transportation and employment generation in the state.

The council urged the establishment of a public transport system that underscores safety, security and efficient services.

By Olalekan Ayeni

S it gears up to take over traffic management on all federal roads, the Subsidy Reinvestment and Empowerment Programme (SURE-P)/FERMA Federal Task Force has directed the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) to vacate all federal roads in the state. It said any attack on his men may spark a row with the Federal Government.

It said LASTMA should respect the 2004 court ruling which said that its jurisdiction does not extend to federal roads in the state.

Speaking in his office last week, the National Coordinator of the Task Force Alhaji Abdulrazak Rafiu-Otto, said LASTMA should allow his officers and men to perform the duties for which they were employed. He stated that the men’s duties were the management and maintainance of traffic across all federal roads in Lagos and the recovery of all Federal Government properties and infrastructure in the state.

Rafiu-Otto, who insisted that the Task Force has nothing against LASTMA, appealed that the latter stay off federal roads and concentrate efforts of its officers and men to ridding the state roads of the traffic gridlock that is intractable in the state. He said his agency would be willing to collaborate with LASTMA in the overall objective of riding the state of gridlocks.

Wondering why the state government would raise a false alarm on the activities of his men, Rafiu-Otto said the agency was not illegal, as it was created by President Goodluck Jonathan as part of the SURE-P initiative which has provided jobs for thousands of Nigerian youths.

He said there is no truth in the allegations that the Task Force is a band of political thugs recruited to prosecute the 2015 election, saying such claims was aimed at causing violence and confusion.

He said “The officers recruited by the Federal Task Force are not thugs, but unemployed graduates and adults looking for a means of livelihood and they all appreciated that the empowerment is already yielding fruits.” He wondered why the Federal Government has not ejected them from its premises at the old toll gate site if they were illegal.

He said arrangements are almost concluded to have President Jonathan inaugurate the Federal Task Force and deploy them to all federal roads across the country.

“This would be perfected in a matter of weeks. What we are all waiting for is the necessary basic support from the Nigeria Police, the Department of State Security (DSS), the Civil Defence and all other security agencies to work with the newly established body,” Rafiu-Otto said.

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Trade facilitation excites importers, clearing agents A

S the Yuletide approaches, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Apapa command, has embarked on programmes to facilitate trade at the country’s biggest port, and the importers and clearing agents are happy for it, The Nation has learnt.

Its Area Controller, Mr Charles Edike, it was gathered, had adopted the trade facilitation programme of the Federal Government by fast-tracking cargo clearance procedures and implementing Customs policies on quick cargo clearance to the fullest to generate more revenue and boost the economy.

The effective manner the Comptroller-General of Customs Alhaji Dikko Abdullahi has directed his officers to implement his six-point agenda, it was learnt, was responsible for the success the service had recorded in Apapa and other notable commands in terms of the modernisation and transfor-

Stories by Oluwakemi Dauda Maritime Correspondent

mation of Customs’ operations, a development, which importers and other operators said, had contributed to the quick clearance of cargoes from the Apapa port.

The Area Controller, Apapa command, stakeholders said, had no option than to embark on trade facilitation because he had received the needed support of his Comptroller-General to organise and manage the highest revenue yielding command in the country, cum the West and Central Africa sub-region.

His zeal and patriotism for the development of the economy, findings revealed, was responsible for why he was moved to Apapa command to carry out the onerous task which, stakeholders said, he had done diligently.

The President, Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA), Prince Olayiwola

Shittu, said Edike does not joke with trade facilitation of the Federal Government.

“No paper stays on Edike’s table for more than 15 minutes before he releases them for quick cargo clearance.This is also because he has made the principle his watch word since his assumption of office as the Controller in Apapa Area Command and in all the commands he has been posted.

“He believes that when any document experiences delay, the implications can be more. Thus, as far as he is concerned, prompt treatment of documents is a must in his command. According to him, the documents represent money and the government needs the money to develop the country and provide jobs for the youths,“ he said.

Shittu also described Edike as a humble and listening Senior Customs officer who attend to every issue brought to his attention to

attract business to the port.

“With the support of Alhaji Dikko, Edike was been able to reactivate the erstwhile dormant Container Terminal in Ijora, through constant and consistent stemming of containers to the terminal, a development that has not only kept the inland terminal alive up till today, but has also assisted in giving a lease of livelihood to importers and those of us in the cargo clearance business.

Also, a senior officer of the command, who does not want his name in print, said the Area Controller had inculcated his trade facilitation message in his officers and tutored them on why they must delay documents to avoid sanctions.

“Edike has tutored us that when you delay import documents, you increase the cost of clearing such goods, because you make the importers to accumulate demurrage and you delay the purpose for

which such goods would have been put to used for the proper development of the economy.

“It is through his rare determination to block revenue loopholes and ability to combat corruption following the instruction given by the CGC that has made it possible for our command to collect an unprecedented N30,499,921,212 in September and N31,567,536,965 in October, this year. The figure is far more than the amount the command generated in the same period last year,” the officer said.

Also, the Chairman of the Lillypond Container Terminal chapter of ANLCA, Prince Chuks Njemanze, said he was impressed with the performance of Edike on trade facilitation and stemming of containers to Lillypond terminal.

As part of efforts to solve the problem of server and network failure frequently encountered by importers and clearing agents at the ports, the Customs, he said, had inaugurated a newly built 160-meter communication tower for trade facilitation and launched a world-class Information Communication Training (ICT) centre at the Apapa command to boost the efficiency of its officers and men.

Addressing reporters on behalf of other stakeholders in Lagos, the Chairman, Apapa Chapter of ANLCA, Mr Olumide Fakanlu, said they were happy with the way the Area Controller was handling the Fast-Track Scheme (FTS) introduced by Customs to boost cargo clearance procedure at the ports.

If not for the way the scheme was being handled, Fakanlu said, “the situation at Apapa port would have worsened because the terminal operator cannot handle more than 200 containers per day. “ Fakanlu also berated the unnecessary additional storage charges the importers and their clearing pay terminal operators.

Shipowners to provide jobs •From right: Director-General, NIMASA, Mr Patrick Akpobolokemi and former President, NISA, Chief Isaac Jolapamo at a stakeholders’forum in PHOTO: OLUWAKEMI DAUDA Lagos.

Cargoes worth N500m trapped at port C

ARGOES worth over N500million belonging to some manufacturing companies are trapped at the Lagos ports complex, following the industrial action embarked upon by clearing agents and truck owners over storage charges.

The goods are also trapped because of the traffic gridlock on the Oshodi-Apapa Expressway and the delay in moving their trucks to the ports, The Nation has learnt.

A clearing agent close to the importers Mr Rasak Balogun said the delay in moving the goods out of the port, was already affecting their targets for the last quarter of the year.

Besides, he said banks, were on their necks to service their loans as the year is fast running to an end.

On the challenges of servicing the loans, Balogun said: “The increase in ship and cargo dwell time has slowed down activities in cargo clearance and this has caused build-ups and tension at the ports.

The delay has resulted in the payment of huge demurrage to shipping companies and rent to terminal operators by importers and clearing agents.

“Once your goods are trapped at the port, you are in trouble because you cannot use the raw materials and the bank will not allow you to rest until you pay their money.’’

Sources close to the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) at Apapa port said there were over 2,500 uncleared containers in one of its terminals because of the crisis over storage charges.

The sources said unless the Min-

ister of Finance and Co-ordinating Minister of the Economy, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, exercises her powers under Section 152 of CEMA to waive demurrage and other charges on the affected goods, next year might be difficult for most of the affected companies.

An importer, who pleaded for anonymity, said he took a loan to import some of the items that are trapped at the port.

“The majority of us in the manufacturing business take loans from the banks to remain in the trade.

Once there is a delay in bringing the unfinished imported items to our company, our machines would suffer and we also have to pay staff salary.

“Don’t forget that before we can move the goods out of the port now or later, we pay a lot of money to

the shipping company, the terminal operators and the truck drivers.

“The delay we are facing was caused by the neglect of improving port facilities by the Federal Government. The major responsibility of the government is to make the ports attractive for business in terms of duty and associated fees; and to make access in and out of the ports easy for users.

“But when a journey of less than 15 minutes from Mile 2 to Apapa ports now takes almost eight hours for truck drivers, who can withstand the rigour, it calls for the government’s attention; more so, when it is clear that some of the terminals cannot handle more than 200 containers in a day and the manufactures are not the only importers patronising the port,” he said.

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HE Nigerian Shipowners Association (NISA) says it will ensure the growth of the shipping industry to provie job opportunities for Nigerians.

Speaking at the inauguration of its new executives, its immediate past President, Chief Isaac Jolapamo, said the cabotage and local content regimes would be used to improve the lives of operators and Nigerians.

“We have come out of the trenches with better determination to secure our maritime industry that is capable of reducing our dependency on oil and create jobs,” he said.

Jolapamo recalled that the Nigerian flag was flown with pride all over the world by Nigerian-owned vessels that carried indigeneous cargoes and crewed by Nigerian seafarers.

He said the industry was the envy of nations, adding that there was assurance for transportation of cargoes by local ships with shipyards designed for ship repair and ship building.

He said the situation changed for the worse when foreign firms were allowed to dominate the industry.

THE NATION TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2014

18

MARITIME

Shippers Council vows to eradicate T arbitrary port charges HE Nigeria Shippers’ Council (NSC) is determined to stop arbitrary charges to make the ports attractive to business, The Nation has learnt.

The NSC, sources said, was more determined to close the gaps created by the Federal Government during the concession of the seaports to private investors about nine years ago.

The council, it was learnt, has expressed its readiness to pursue the case to a logical conclusion to improve the performance of the ports by regulating charges and making the ports more cost effective.

After the final determination of the case, NSC, it was gathered, would ensure that arbitrary charges by shipping firms and terminal operators become a thing of the past in all the seaports.

A senior official of the Federal Ministry of Transport, who craved anonymity, said at the weekend that the management of the council and the officials of the ministry had embarked on the journey to

Stories by Oluwakemi Dauda Maritime Correspondent

achieve efficiency at the seaports.

The era of imposing arbitrary charges that have often been described by importers, exporters and clearing agent as uncharitable, the source said, had gone.

Shippers’ Council, it was learnt, was going tough because during the concession, the agreement was that the terminal operators were not to increase charges without observing due process. Part of the agreement, the source said, was to call a stakeholders’meeting at which such charges would be discussed and approved before implementation.

The terminal operators and shipping firms, the official alleged, introduced new charges in the past without calling a meeting of

stakeholders.

“It was this that prompted the agitation for the appointment of a commercial regulator to oversee the activities of stakeholders, including providers and receivers of shipping services. The freight forwarders had on many occasions gone on strike to protest the action of the service providers in increasing charges and for other deplorable conditions in the system.

They had argued that this was so because there was no regulator to check the activities of the terminal operators and shipping companies, most of whom are sister companies of the terminal operators. It was based on this problem that stakeholders applauded the Federal Government when it approved the Shippers’ Council as the Economic Regulator,” the official said.

Since the appointment of Mr Hazzan Bello as the Executive Secretary of the council, it was learnt, the council had started regulating operators, importers, exporters and clearing agents.

The NSC, it was gathered, had vowed to check excessive charges against importers to reduce prices of imported goods and make the ports competitive and attractive for business.

Bello expressed optimism that the council would deliver on its new mandate.

The council, Bello said, was determined to meet the expectations of Nigerians in terms of port operation, efficiency and port charges.

He assured genuine importers that irregularities and arbitrariness in the ports system would be addressed.

The NSC, he assured, would look

•Gridlock on Oshodi-Apapa Expressway... last Friday.

PHOTO: OLUWAKEMI DAUDA

Customs sacks 52 officers

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HE Management of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has approved the dismissal of 52 officers for corruption, warning importers and clearing agents still handling non-compliant cargoes to key into the Pre-Arrival Assessment Report (PAAR) programme of the Federal Government or face its wrath.

The dismissal order, findings revealed, had been approved by its Comptroller-General Alhaji Dikko Abdulahi based on a report.

The Customs boss, it was gathered, told the top executives of the Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA), who met with the management team of the service last week, in Abuja, urging them to tell their members to stop finding faults in PAAR. The meeting, it was learnt, was called by Customs to find solutions to some of the challenges confronting ANLCA at ports.

A senior official of ANLCA at the meeting, who craved anonymity, said an effort by him and other clearing agents to plead on behalf of the affected officers was rejected

by Dikko.

into the high cost of doing business at the ports, and what was responsible for the diversion of goods meant for ports to neighbouring ports of Cotonou.

The President, Association of Nigerian Customs Licensed Agents (ANLCA), Alhaji Olayiwola Shittu, urged the council to review charges imposed on importers.

He alleged that the terminal operators and shipping firms forced importers to pay demurrage even when it was their fault that the importers could not take delivery of their goods on time.

Shittu urged the National Assembly to shippers, clearing agents and consumers of imported goods by ensuring that the bill to empower the council on its new role as port economic regulator was passed into law to stem the tide of a litigation that could scuttle the good intention of the Federal Government to make imported goods cheap and available to Nigerians.

The CGC, it was gathered, said when he first received the unsubstantiated news, he called about 15 senior officers among them and warned them one by one to desist from the act but all to no avail until the new report about their involvement was brought to his attention.

T

•Urges importers to key into PAAR The Customs boss, it was gathered, also told the ANLCA chiefs that he needed to take the drastic step against the affected officers to serve as a deterrent to others.

Dikko, it was learnt, however,

told the visiting ANLCA chiefs that he was happy with the crop of Customs Intelligence Unit (CIU) officers.

He described the CIU officers as the best ever, praising them for dis-

playing professionalism in their work.

The ANLCA President, Prince Olayiwola Shittu, said PAAR was working.

He said the initial challenges faced by the agents were caused by human errors which had been addressed by the Customs.

Fed Govt rakes in N973m at Seme

HE Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Seme command generated N973, 540,612.78 as revenue last month.

The amount is the highest monthly revenue so far collected by the command this year.

The command, it was learnt, also made 24 seizures with duty paid value of N32,019,613.

The seized items included bags of rice, frozen poultry products and other prohibited goods.

Its Area Controller, Mr Willy Egbudin, described the revenue as a product of increased compliance

by stakeholders and non-compromise by his officers.

He said the command would ensure it collects all revenue due to the Federal Government from importers transacting business through the border.

He pledged to make the border un-attractive for smugglers and those engaging in illegal activities.

Egbudin said the smugglers who changed route to other areas, such as Shaki in Oyo State and Idiroko in Ogun State were not finding it easy as the Customs operatives there were tackling them, seizing their

wares and crushing their unlawful investments.

“In carrying out the directives of our Comptroller-General, Dikko Inde Abdullahi, I have constantly sensitised and reminded our officers and men on the zero tolerance for smuggling stance.On this, there is no going back. We are sending a strong warning to smugglers that daring us means a venture into big regrets.We are ready to deploy our logistics for intelligence, interdiction,arrest, seizure and diligent prosecution of suspects. ‘’We shall continue to apply the strat-

egy of enlightenment and sensitisation with all our stakeholders and keep dissuading them from smuggling and other border-related unlawful activities.We appreciate those complying for their patriotism and urge those deviating to emulate the good examples for a better economy and brighter future for all Nigerians,” he said.

The Area controller assured the public and travellers across the border that Customs officers at strategic and approved points would assist in facilitating legitimate trade and reduce crime.

THE NATION TUESDAY,NOVEMBER 18, 2014

19

COMMENTARY EDITORIALS

LETTER

Nigeria’s nightmare

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•Human life has become the country’s cheapest commodity

T is truly ironic that, at a time when Nigeria has been formally acknowledged as the most valuable economy in Africa, the worth of human life within it has become so cheap. Even the most patriotic of its citizens can recognise the growing indifference to increasing incidents of serious injury and mass loss of life.

There are remote and immediate causes for this ongoing tragedy. Principal among them are the chaos and destruction of the civil war, the subsequent diffusion of small arms and the consequent rise in armed robbery and violent crime. There is also the problem of weak and ineffective institutions which make the resort to self-help more attractive. In addition, the rise of dictatorial military regimes and their authoritarian civilian counterparts

‘When a president engages in partisan politicking hours after terrorist attacks, when he continually gives excuses for failing to act, when he blames others for his own ineffectiveness, he conveys the message that his administration cannot care less about the most fundamental of its duties towards the citizenry – ensuring the security of their lives and property’

have combined to ensure that Nigeria is a country in which the ends always justify the means, regardless of how violent those means may be.

More recently, the cheapness of human life has been aggravated by the cruelty of the militant Islamic groups like Boko Haram whose putative campaign for an Islamic state has been characterised by cold-blooded acts of mass murder. Ever since its renewed campaign of terror began in May 2011, the country has witnessed assassinations, bombings, armed attacks and abductions on a regular basis. Places of worship, markets and bus stations have been bombed; civilians have been slaughtered; girls and young women have been abducted.

Perhaps the most egregious demonstration of the reprehensible tactics of the insurgents is the deliberate targeting of male students as seen in Gujba, Mamudo, Buni-Yadi, and most recently, in Potiskum, where a suicide bomber detonated a backpack full of explosives at a school assembly. Fifty-two students died and 79 were injured. A despondent people and a terrified nation seem to passively await the next atrocity, only praying that it will not affect them directly.

The situation is worsened by the lack of responsiveness of the Federal Government which seems to have restricted itself to the perfunctory issuance of statements of condemnation and sympathy.

While those are necessary, it is obvious that they are inadequate, especially when government’s own actions blatantly contradict such pious sentiments.

When over 200 girls were abducted in Chibok, Borno State, the Jonathan administration took two weeks to respond officially, even in the throes of global outrage.

Government officials floated the kite that there had been no abductions at all. That was followed by the amazing request that all demands for the return of the girls be addressed to the terrorists who took them, rather than the administration. Then there was the First Lady’s infamous summoning and interrogation of officials in connection with the abductions. Till today, President Jonathan has refused to visit Chibok, and only had audience with the parents of the abducted girls at the behest of Malala Yousafzai, the Pakistani activist.

In April, the president danced openly at a political rally in Kano, less than a day after nearly 100 Nigerians lost their lives in a car-bomb explosion in Nyanya on the outskirts of Abuja. Last week, he went ahead with his formal declaration to contest a second term just 24 hours after the devastation in Potiskum.

As leader of the Nigerian state, President Jonathan must understand that he is more than a mere politician and should act accordingly. When a president engages in partisan politicking hours after terrorist attacks, when he continually gives excuses for failing to act, when he blames others for his own ineffectiveness, he conveys the message that his administration cannot care less about the most fundamental of its duties towards the citizenry – ensuring the security of their lives and property. Such attitudes only serve to ensure that human lives remain the country’s cheapest commodity.

Military recruitment strategy

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•We welcome the proposed idea but it is not enough to ensure efficiency

O nation can earn the respect of the civilised world with a rag-tag military that is incapable of protecting her territory against internal insurrection and external aggression. Nigeria is presently facing the dilemma of a weak military as depicted in the incompetence in the handling of the combat against the Boko Haram insurgents ravaging especially her north eastern part. The desire to win the respect of citizens and the global community has taken the government and the military topmost hierarchy to the drawing board.

They came up with the reported decision to review strategy for recruitment into the Nigerian Armed Forces. According to reports, “The Federal Government is reviewing the strategy for recruitment into the three services of the Armed Forces.

The situation where people are recruited into the services because they are jobless and their influential contacts want them to be given jobs would no longer work ...

There is a job to be done; this is about discipline, commitment and courage.”

To us, the move is a welcome development even though it is belated. Any responsible action taken to remedy the glaring inadequacies among the personnel in the on-going fight against Boko Haram insurgents is acceptable. The situation is so bad that it would amount to an understatement to state that the military, in recent times, has caused serious humiliation to the land, especially on the global stage.

The Nigerian military is in avoidable situation where notorious things are hap-

pening. We recollect such disreputable incidents as where disgruntled soldiers mutinied against their General Officer Commanding (GOC) in Maiduguri, Borno State. Also, soldiers and officers wantonly ‘stray’ into neighbouring countries on the battle field, causing the nation to lose important territories and battles to the Boko Haram terrorists. We cannot easily forget Boko Haram’s capturing of some towns, including Mubi, in Adamawa State (now recaptured by the military) and Chibok in Borno State, amongst other areas, which underscores the fact that the military needs urgent help from the establishment.

The new official criteria of courage, fearlessness and discipline may be good but can they be enough to put the military back on the right track? Currently, the recruitment process into the military is highly politicised and genuine efforts must be made to change this. It is unfortunate that Nigerians join the military, not because of love for country or the institution but because of desperation to get an avenue to eke a living. The military has suddenly become the attraction for jobless Nigerians because of the debilitating unemployment situation in the country.

In essence, the current crop of soldiers and military officers are largely driven, not by any patriotic fervour, but by compelling urge to get something to sustain their lives. Like other Nigerians, people go for jobs that are readily available since the ones they have affinity and competence for are not forthcoming. This chal-

lenge facing the military is further compounded by corruption which could constitute a serious problem to the proposed recruitment reforms. The military high command’s move for a probe of the numerous humiliating challenges facing the institution to compliment its new recruitment initiative is face-saving.

We want the military to regain its lost glory by recruiting committed people into its fold and doing away with personnel that are not ready to fight wars. In addition, the soldiers must be provided the necessary sophisticated arms and ammunition to fight. The authorities should also look into their welfare to enhance their efficiency. Soldiers who are not committed to their duties cannot be entrusted with protecting the territorial sovereignty of the country. They constitute grave danger not only to themselves but the country at large.

‘We want the military to regain its lost glory by recruiting committed people into its fold and doing away with personnel that are not ready to fight wars. In addition, the soldiers must be provided the necessary sophisticated arms and ammunition to fight. The authorities should also look into their welfare to enhance their efficiency’

Where has Amosun gone wrong?

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IR: Ever since the attentive world rose to its feet to applaud Governor Ibikunle Amosun’s virtuoso performance after three years in office, the dogs of war seem to have been let loose and they are baying for his blood. Amosun and his wife have become the punching bag of miscreants on social media whose mercantile instincts mark out as cannon fodder in the hands of aggrieved and out-of-favour politicians.

Every day, they concoct lies and tasteless falsehoods to nibble away at his soaring popularity among the long suffering people of Ogun State who are beginning to finally see that indeed, Ogun can be better.

Close observers of Amosun’s over three year’s administration can attest to the fact that for the first time in a long while, Ogun State is witnessing a structured approach to governance. Amosun’s philosophy of governance is inclusive and open. Bringing his years in the commanding height of the private sector to bear on governance, Amosun had outlined his Vision and Mission in the government house from the outset. Right from the election campaign days, Amosun had told Ogun indigene that his vision was for Ogun State to become the First Choice Investment Destination and a hub for industrialization and commercial activities while his mission was to create a socially stable, business friendly environment that will attract both indigenes and foreigners to seek wealth creating opportunities in Ogun State. So, he knew where he was going and how to get there. Again, it may not be certain but it would seem that Amosun is probably the first governor of Ogun State to articulate a vision and mission statement that would guide him in office. At the moment, Amosun has done a good job of keeping his eyes on the prize. And that is why they are kicking.....

Again, in full appreciation of the security nightmare that had bedeviled Ogun State through the years, Amosun had defined that his leadership goals had no chance in hell if he failed to tackle the security challenges in the state. So, he went after the kidnappers, armed robbers and secret cultists who had made Ogun State inhabitable with a figurative sharp knife. And what exactly did he do? Quite simple: he spent the security votes on providing security for the state; something that some past leaders either kept for themselves or shared with their godfathers. In three years, Amosun cleansed Ogun State of violent criminals and restored sleep to the eyes of the masses. And that is why they are kicking…..

Again, leaning heavily on his technocratic background, Governor Amosun realized that for him to have enough money to find what he calls the enablers that support his five cardinal programmes, he could not continue to depend on the hand-downs from the federal government; that something had to be done in the area of Internally Generated Revenue (IGR). So, from an inherited IGR of N700m, he multiplied Ogun’s Internally Generated Revenue, bringing it to the threshold of N5bn. And what, in fact did he do? Ogun State is home to some of Africa’s largest markets with numerous investments that generate instant revenue. Ogun hosts quite a sizable chunk of Nigeria’s manufacturing firms as well. Amosun simply opened bids for the investors and handed them over to competent hands, reorganized the various markets and opened an enlightenment campaign on the importance of tax compliance.

The final reason why they won’t stop kicking is because they had told people that Abeokuta and other town in the state was beyond redemption; that Abeokuta indigenes were anti-progress and had always stood in the way of plans to turn the town into a befitting capital of Nigeria’s most distinctive state. But now that four to five flyovers are springing up at the same time and changing the landscape of Nigeria’s most rustic state capital, they have come out kicking and punching. With the security votes that they could not spend to secure Ogun State, they have armed a band of youths that they could not employ and turned them loose on the social media. These men have made it a habit to incite the people against Amosun’s three years administration with brazen lies and photo-shopped images. Their solitary mission is to derail Amosun from the path of progress by keeping him busy fighting real and imagined enemies. And just in case you still don’t get it, their vision is to ensure that Ogun State remains at the rungs of underdevelopment; perpetually aspiring for greatness and never attaining it.

• Ademola Orunbon, Olomore, Abeokuta

TRUTH IN DEFENCE OF FREEDOM Managing Director/Editor-in-Chief Victor Ifijeh

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• Executive Director (Finance & Administration) Ade Odunewu

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THE NATION TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2014

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CARTOON & LETTERS

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IR: Since the inception of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) 41 years ago, a lot has happened to make people argue for and against its relevance and benefits to the Nigerian youth. The history of the NYSC is indeed replete with momentous events. For some of us, commenting on issues like this is more than just writing. It’s a way to wake up, to calm down, to spark an idea, and to share a story. And this is the story of the transformation going on right now in the NYSC. I recall when the present Director General of the NYSC, BrigadierGeneral Johnson Olawumi, assumed office, he clearly highlighted the

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NYSC and safety of corps members path he wanted his administration to take. He gave a brilliant fourpoint agenda aimed at increasing the impact and relevance of NYSC by improving the service content of the scheme, enhancing the welfare and safety of corps members and staff; expanding partnerships for greater impact, funding and

support for the scheme; and increasing the visibility and relevance of the scheme.

Pursuant of the second agenda, the DG recently paid a visit to corps member, Babatunde Oluwagbenga who was involved in an auto accident alongside five of his colleagues on their way to the NYSC orienta-

Rivers PDP gubernational imbroglio

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IR: The on-going controversy over who bears the PDP flag in the Rivers 2015 governorship election is getting to a disturbing level. An interesting angle to it, is Governor Chibuike Amaechi’s insistence that it would be unfair, unjust and even politically immoral for an Ikwerre to succeed him, an Ikwerre himself. Should this happen, he keeps singing like a song, it would be a recipe for disunity, inequity and injustice in a state that has enjoyed relative peace in the past few years? I am not an Amaechi fan, but I find this his reasoning resoundingly mature and acceptable to many Rivers people. He does not want Rivers State on fire after his regime.

One does not need to look too far to observe that since the return of democratic rule in May 1999, Rivers State has been governed, back to back, by our brothers from the upland section of our state. Yet, there is a clear and natural divide in our state - upland and riverine areas.

Governor Peter Odili, from 1999 to 2007, governed Rivers State. He is upland and during his swearing-in ceremony on May 30, 1999, he promised that the next governor, after him, would come from the riverine.

He reneged and proposed his crony,

Chibuike Amaechi, to vie for the number one position in the state.

President Obasanjo who did not want Amaechi for a number of reasons, retaliated by withdrawing his support for Odili’s presidential, and later vice-presidential ambition.

Out of panic, Odili substituted Amaechi with his (Amaechi) cousin, Celestine Omehia. Amaechi later got what he and Odili wanted through a Supreme Court ruling.

Amaechi is due to hand over power by May 2015, and has sustained his insistence that for justice, fairness and peace, another Ikwerre should not succeed him. Sincere and average Ikwerre person agree with him. Based on the array of the 16 candidates who addressed a successful pro-zoning rally in Port Harcourt recently, it is clear that front runners, in the following order, Beks Dagogo-Jack, Dumo Lulu Briggs, Samson Ngeribara, among the lot, seem to be carrying popular acceptability among party stalwarts and membership.

There are many questions to be asked. Are the party leadership at the national level of the PDP not reading the political temperature in Rivers State? Are they so distant that they are not getting the feeling that Nyesom Wike, though an

asset to the party, cannot win if eventually imposed on members of the party? Can’t they feel the pulse from their Abuja enclave? Are the signals not clear enough to them by now, and what else are they waiting?

Chief Wike’s inordinate ambition must be halted, not massaged by the national leadership of the party.

He claims he rescued the party when Amaechi almost orphaned it, as it were, but that is not very correct. He along with other party stakeholders in the state ensured that Amaechi’s exit from the party did not cause its sudden death. The rescue mission couldn’t have been a one-man project. No person should claim to be God here! The party is not for sale nor was it collectively rescued for the benefit of the highest bidder. The party should know the best way to compensate Wike and others who played roles when it mattered most.

What our state needs now is a sound technocrat who understands what is needed to move this beautiful and naturally endowed state to the next level.

•Cosmas Omoku, Diobu, Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

tion camp in Bayelsa State. The visit by the DG showed the premium placed on the lives of corps members.

I gathered that the DG was in Benin on his nationwide tour of orientation camps when he heard about the unfortunate incident.

News reports said he made a detour to the University of Benin Teaching Hospital where the injured corps member was being treated. But that is not all there is to it. He actually ordered the payment of the victim’s medical bills, which he could have done by instruction and not necessarily visiting physically. He could have sent the Edo State coordinator of the NYSC to monitor the situation and report back to him. But no, he visited himself, which I think was exemplary. That in itself was a statement of two uncommon folds: translating words to action.

We were all witnesses to the unfortunate events of 2011 where some corps members in the north lost their lives in the post-election violence of that year. The memory isn’t something we can wish away easily. The nation mourned. And questions were asked. Answers were provided, if not satisfactorily. I think the NYSC has realised that corps members are vulnerable to attacks hence the premium placed on their safety and welfare at all times. And the visit of the DG to the injured corps member consolidates this view.

I also understand that during the orientation exercise, all camps have had security personnel doubled with the military, police, SSS, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps collaborating to provide adequate security for corps members.

In addition, after the orientation

exercise, the NYSC provided the various state police commands and the state security service commands with the location of lodges of corps members in case of emergencies. There is also the distress call centre that was established for corps members to use in times of distress. This should be good news for parents and guardians especially given the security situation in the country.

The distress call centre can best be described as innovative. I gather it works this way: when corps members are deployed to their places of primary assignment, their full data such as names, phone number, states code, and places of primary assignment, and addresses of security agencies within that area are sent by the state coordinators to the NYSC headquarters. The information is then uploaded into the scheme’s database. In times of distress, when a corps member calls with the registered phone number, his or her data page will appear on the screen. Security operatives within the vicinity would then be notified immediately.

What can be more reassuring than this? Play back this scenario to the 2011 post-election violence. Imagine the number of lives that would have been saved by a mere phone call before evil befell them. And the nation would have been saved the agony of the bizarre event. But there is no point agonising over what cannot be undone.

However, it is comforting to know that more than ever before, the lives of corps members are more secured, and that their welfare is being given the utmost attention it deserves. By building on what he met on the ground and adding his own thrust and touch, the DG of the NYSC, Brig. Gen Johnson Olawumi has started well. We can only wish he sustains the tempo and continues to introduce cutting-edge innovations to make the NYSC a more responsive organisation.

•James Mancha Jalingo, Taraba

THE NATION TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2014

I

COMMENTS

21

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season of doubt and ennui?

N the battle for the soul of post-Julius On one hand, the SIA APC Caesar Rome, Mark Anthony had a government, that has given a grand lamentation. good account of itself, appears In Shakespeare’s Anthony and near-fatally distracted. On the Cleopatra, Anthony said though Augustus other hand, the opposition Caesar was a mere subaltern when Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) himself, Marcus Lepidus and Augustus plots — and why not? — to take (later the Second Triumvirate) crushed the partisan advantage. But its own Brutus-led rebellion that killed Julius record, as the federal ruling Caesar, he was already a full general. Yet, Olakunle party, is absolutely appalling.

Augustus always trumped him in battle. lordbeek1@gmail.com, 08054504169 (Sms only, please) Abimbola It was as WB Yeats said in his That routine trumping Anthony, firmly famous poem, “The Second under the skirts of Egyptian Queen Coming”: The best lack all Cleopatra, so much rued, forced him to conviction, while the worst are full suicide, after the veteran’s defeat at the 31 of passionate intensity.

BC Battle of Actium.

The second coming! Is the poem This is no foray into Roman history or shown Pa Osoba more reverence, in his alleged iconoclastic war that gifted Chinua Achebe the immortal title of his foremost Shakespearean drama. It is only some literary parallel to the to gun down the old Osoba progressive order; and mould the classic, Things Fall Apart, about plaguing SIA’s second coming: battle for the soul of Ogun State, with the ruling progressives in terrain in his own image, simply because he is governor, and with things falling apart, the centre not holding, the falcon not a fight-to-finish. hearing the falconer, and mere anarchy being loosed upon the does not shy away from fierce slugfests.

In this progressives’ retrogressive war, reason has vanished.

Still, SIA himself could claim, as governor, to have near- Ogun partisan world?

Only ego remains.

That would appear the case, if Osoba and SIA don’t step back excellently executed his brief, earned his pip beyond empty “Olumo Wars” (Republican Ripples, October 21), had hoped the progressive sloganeering and grandstanding, and therefore from their mutually self-destruct paths! And talking about selftwo feuding camps would find some mutual accommodation. destruction, all the noise about the Osoba faction emptying into earned the people’s confidence.

But that has proved forlorn, with a faction, the near-wholesale Even more irreverent, he could claim, with a measure of fairness, SDP is a journey to nowhere — or better still, a journey to the Ogun All Progressives’ Congress (APC) National Assembly that when the battle was fierce, and Otunba Gbenga Daniel (OGD) past. caucus, with Deputy Governor, Segun Adesegun, defecting into SDP, like Olusegun Mimiko’s Labour Party (LP), is a PDP Trojan was bloodying everybody, and the heat forced the Aremo to the Social Democratic Party (SDP). relocate elsewhere on political sabbatical, he and only he, was horse. Unlike the ill-fated Democratic People’s Alliance (DPA) Enter then, Anthony: Aremo Olusegun Osoba, former Ogun the triumphant general in the streets, facing — and slaying — of 2007, which the Afenifere grandees floated but was electorally governor and media aristocrat. Latterly, the Aremo has joined crushed, SDP would appear more potent because of its high the dragon of Governor-Ferocious OGD! the Afenifere default setting, by tracing his progressive nativity Still, the Anthony-Augustus parallel does not in any way chances of treachery with the opposition, to checkmate a bitter to the feet of Chief Obafemi Awolowo, to underscore his suggest SIA would prevail over Osoba, as Augustus did over the comrade turned antagonist; but also, given the SIA government’s ideological longevity. more seasoned Anthony. Pray, which child, even with his developmental strides, short-change the people.

That could translate, in Shakespeare-speak, into an Anthony Those who got their progressivism from the feet of Awo must wardrobe choking with fancy clothes, out-rags his parents? reminding the Augustus of his time, that he was a progressive be familiar with this tragic trend: Awo-Akintola (1962/63); Nor does it suggest the reverse: Osoba trumping Amosun. qua progressive, even when Augustus was still in political It starkly suggests an ego war is afoot, in which a hitherto collapse of the Second Republic (1983); Unhorsing of the Alliance diapers, of no defined ideological provenance! common camp — in government and with achievements to of Democracy progressives (2003) — whenever the Yoruba More dangerously, for the progressive cause: the Aremo’s Awo flaunt — is about falling upon itself like ones cursed. Mutually homeland shows signs of bursting forth, despite the paralysis nativity could well signal a proxy war, as the Afenifere dandies of pseudo-federal Nigeria, score-settling and ancestral feuding assured destruction (MAD) may just well be assured! are wont to do, against forces beyond the local “enemy”, another On the Ogun political plains, soon to turn ideological killing Yoruba themselves would join reactionaries from elsewhere to latter-day ideological arrival — at least in the thinking of the fields, hubris crows and brags, in the worst tradition of what the scuttle the golden dream. huffy Afenifere aristocracy — come to sudden but great political For the ideological-callow but politically gung-ho SIA camp, Yoruba call eedi! It is the ultimate grave of the proud, the haughty, fortune, and becoming bad influences on the local rascal, also some home truth: you can’t hope to consolidate your come to sudden political office! the cocky!

But also enter, Augustus, Ogun Governor, Senator Ibikunle The ultimate victims? The people — except, of course, they development programmes and policy, if your politics is not Amosun (SIA). He could well have been in political diapers secure their own interests, even as the politicians batter right!

Something is certainly not right with SIA politics: a sitting when the Aremo had become a general in the Awo Progressive themselves in a needless civil war.

Army. He could also boast no ideological fidelity over a period So, the Ogun people must ask themselves: have they fared and high performing government deserted by almost all of its of time. better than hitherto under SIA; and what are their prospects, National Assembly members; and a good chunk of the Ogun legislature members.

He could even prove guilty as alleged: that he ought to have four more years under that government?

Some dire news, for both sides: If Osoba loses this war, he If the answer is yes, they had better start directly rallying themselves; to protect their interests. If however the reverse is faces political death. If SIA loses, he kisses his second term “If Osoba loses this war, he faces political the case, they had better start planning to do the needful too. goodbye. By sheer ego, it is lose-lose. But reason may yet turn death. If SIA loses, he kisses his second Of course, that is better said than done. In a democracy, political it win-win.

As in Ekiti, sad history is about repeating itself in Ogun — parties are a vital interface to mobilise the people for purposeful term goodbye, in the worst tradition of political action. But what if these political parties are themselves unless, of course, both the seasoned and callow get off their ego what the Yoruba call eedi!” a bastion of confusion; and the people, themselves, in their high horse; and fast, wear their thinking caps!

epublican ipples

Ogun: Anthony Vs Augustus

C

HIEF Olusegun Obasanjo, as president, showed a tremendous respect and sympathy for pensioners when in 2006 he blocked the Minister of Finance, Esther Nenadi Usman’s attempt to pay the arrears of pensioners with Federal Government bonds. President Obasanjo was particularly unhappy with that arrangement when he asked the question: “A 70 or 80 years old man, if you give him pension arrears in bonds, and you say it is cashable in so, so number of years, how many more years do you think he has to live?” (The Guardian, August 8, 2006).

The pension arrears nationwide were put at ¦ 75 billion.

President Obasanjo ordered the government, through its Minister of Finance, to release ¦ 75 billion to clear the pensioners’ arrears. The pensioners were subsequently paid their pension arrears. During the Yar’Adua administration, prompt attention was paid to pensioners, known all over the world as senior citizens.

Unfortunately, the regime of President Jonathan has been different. Even when it appeared that the President wanted to act, Minister of Finance, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, was always on hand to frustrate his effort. Less attention is being paid to non-payment of pensioners arrears than preventing pension looters from stealing pensioners’ fund. As I observed in The Nation, June 29, p18 on “Okonjo-Iweala and pensioners”, “For once, we should appreciate President Jonathan’s kind and favourable disposition to the issue of arrears of 53% increase in pensioners’ monthly salaries from 2009 to date. It was reported, as I did mention in my last open letter to the President (See The Nation, January 24, p21) that President Jonathan had signed an approval for the payment of 53% increase from July 1, 2009 to date as calculated by his Technical Committee. We later heard that out of this, 33% had been paid to the military who are gunning for the balance of 20%. The pity of it all is that Mr. President seemed to have been dictated to by Ngozi OkonjoIweala, his controversial minister, who was alleged to have insisted on cutting the 53% to 33% even after the Wages Commission and the NUC were said to have prepared 53% payment of arrears for inclusion in the budget”.

We can see that, unlike his predecessors (Obasanjo and Yar’Adua), President Jonathan has no control over his Finance Minister. Surely, if Jonathan were president in 2006, he would not have had the guts to stop his Minister of Finance from wanting to pay arrears of pensioners with Federal Government bonds. Neither has he the guts to order Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala to clear the pensioners’ arrears of 53% increase which he signed from July, 2009. Instead, he left everything to Okonjo-Iweala, first to unilaterally reduce the increase from 53% to 33%, and second to renege on the effective date of July, 2009 which has now been shifted to July, 2010.

In the midst of President Jonathan’s nonchalant attitude

FG and pension arrears

By Moses Akinola Makinde to the plight of pensioners over the non-payment of 53% arrears of their pensions, retired military pensioners on Wednesday, August 5 (Punch, August 7) staged a peaceful protest in Abuja over non-payment of their pensions by the Federal Government. The retirees, who threatened violence said that the Federal Government had yet to pay their pension arrears from 2010 till date (it has been changed from July 2009 to July 2010 by the powerful Finance Minister).

They carried placards, some of which read, “Mr. President, pay our pension arrears or forget 2015”. Converging on the junction to the Presidential Villa, the group accused President Goodluck Jonathan of not obeying the directive of the Senate to pay them. By our reckoning, the group was probably unaware that the directive actually came from the Minister of Finance who, on pension matters, is the big boss! When the protesters visited the National Assembly, the three Senators who addressed them revealed that money had been appropriated in the 2014 budget, but it had been hijacked by the presidency. These ugly scenarios should enable us to contrast Jonathan’s regime to those of Obasanjo and Yar’Adua (of blessed memory). Also, there have been civilian protesters who had made several trips to Abuja on this serious issue of non-payment of pension arrears from 2009/ 2010 till today. What more do we need to say on this matter that is certainly an embarrassment to people of conscience in Nigeria and the international community?

Belatedly, a certain Mrs. Nellie Mayshak, the DirectorGeneral of Pension Transitional Arrangement Department (PTAD), spoke on this matter two months after the protests (See “Pensioners to enjoy 33% increment”, Punch, October 19, p57). She was asked the question: “when should the pensioners expect the full (italics mine) implementation of the 33 percent increment?” Note that it is not 33%, but 53% increase as signed by Mr. President in July 2009. Mrs. Mayshak herself said that the increase took place “between 2009 and 2010”. She then assured that “the good news is that the Federal Government has been working hard to implement the commitment in the implementation of the 33 percent to civilian pensioners and that will take effect, hopefully, from this month(October, 2014)”.

Just this month, the military retirees have protested again, this time to the Minister of Finance demanding that the

pension increase should be 53% “to put them at par with those on active service”, (See “Military retirees protest delay in pension payment”, Punch Nov.6, p13). But Ngozi OkonjoIweala said “I cannot tell you that everything will be paid at once”.

And so it is that we are now in November and once again the October date was a big lie. What is more, the bad news is that the payment of pensioners’ arrears would be scattered or staggered, meaning it would be paid by instalment and not at once as it was under Obasanjo and Yar’Adua. Not paying the pensioners at once would be an act of unimaginable wickedness. Payment of the arrears at once would have afforded pensioners the opportunity of building or buying houses of their own, apart from having a good Christmas this year, at least, for a change.

The wickedness becomes outstanding when you realize that those dictating when and how to pay or not to pay pension arrears do own mansions in Abuja, Lagos etc, as well as in America, Britain, France, Dubai, name it, and will enjoy Christmas with their families with lots of naira, dollars and plenty of food at their disposal. But in their peculiar wickedness, it has not occurred to them that poor pensioners are entitled to a home in their villages, or given the opportunity to spend Christmas and New Year with money in their pockets.

The government prefers that these pensioners die homeless while they and their families live in opulence in big mansions scattered all over the world. What an unpardonable sin? The Federal Government should, as a matter of urgency, pay the correct arrears, and without remainder, of 53% increase to pensioners from 2009 when the President Jonathan signed for the payment and order the Minister of Finance to implement. Incidentally, the pensioners have said that President Jonathan should forget 2015. This is an opportunity for the opposition to capitalize on this serious lapse to plead with the pensioners to hold on till 2015 when the issue would be solved once and for all.

Because workers have children of voting age, many workers have between two and four of such children. That of pensioners is even greater. Many of these pensioners are parents of this working class, together with their children who are also grandchildren of pensioners, many of who are of voting age. Altogether the pensioners, their children (workers) and grandchildren, either working or in tertiary institutions, would form a formidable electorate that can do and undo by supporting their parents and grandparents on election day. That is when the aggrieved pensioners would get their pound of flesh. When the die is cast, it will be no shaking, no surrender. Mark my words. People who are blessed must learn how to bless, and not impoverish others • Prof. Makinde FNAL is DG/CEO, Awolowo Centre for Philosophy, Ideology and Good Governance, Osogbo, Osun State.

THE NATION TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2014

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COMMENTS

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S I looked at the crowd of people; women, children, artisans, political associations and VIPs, who came to participate in the epoch declaration of Maigidan Kwara, with discernible joy in their faces, I felt like being able to decipher what was going through the mind of my boss and governor of Kwara State, Dr Abdulfatah Ahmed. For it is rare in deed to host the kind of personalities and the huge crowd of party members who came to grace the occasion declaring his intention to run for a second term, without feeling, for wants of words, fulfilled.

Of course we knew they didn’t come for Ahmed alone; they came to feel the Kwara political structure that has afforded every man and woman to reach the pinnacle of his or her potentials. They came to feel the veracity of the Saraki political philosophy that defines democracy as truly a politics of inclusiveness based on individual capacity to deliver rather than aristocratic exclusivity where only those who have the resources control the destiny of others. I know the people came to sound a clear note of warning to those who think electoral power, the real power to determine who rules over us, resides somewhere in a mansion in the federal capital. Like our political leader said, it is the politician who stands with the people through thick and thin that gets their support and it is no secret that when you talk of a leader staying with his people through it all, none in Kwara can equate Saraki’s record.

Late Olusola Saraki, the Oloye, sacrificed his personal comfort to liberate Kwara from ýthe status quo where Kwara’s relevance was restricted only to filling the gap required to win election, after which the state benefited from crumbs. He participated in who becomes what at the national level, thereby made Kwara critical in decision making.

Saraki, the son has, through the support of the , become a house name in the national politics. This is a pride to Kwara.

Take it or leave, they came to celebrate what the ignorant deem to deride in Kwara which is the reality that in the Kwara of today, anybody, can become anything, provided you are within the right political structure. The people came to celebrate the Saraki political dynasty, which as former Vice President Atiku Abubakar pointed out at the event, has

H

When Ahmed declared for second term

By Abdulwahaab Oba produced two ‘successive and successful governors’, pointing out that he was part of that project from the start.

This last point needed to be appreciated particularly given the wrong picture that the opposition has sought to perpetually paint about the Saraki political structure. The truth is that majority of those belly-aching in the state against the structure are only kicking because of the determination of the structure to give voice to the voiceless among the crowd of men and women who consistently devote their energy and sometimes very meagre resources to the success of the structure.

I can gleefully repeat what the governor said about the structure because I know it is the truth: “I reaffirm my belief in our political structure. A structure that has given hope to the hopeless; that has made governance inclusive in Kwara State. This structure gives hope that you can be anything you want subject only to the limit of your abilities. It is only this structure that could have enabled Abdulfatah Ahmed, the son of a middle-level policeman, to become governor. So, whether you are the son of a carpenter, tailor, farmer, taxi driver, or trader, you too can be governor. “You too can be President. You too can be a minister. You too can be a Senator. You too can aspire to the House of Representatives. So, tell those who offer you false freedom, those who are bitter that we have democratized access to political power regardless of social background that you already have freedom to dream, to aspire and to achieve through this structure.”

It is the truth because there are several other examples apart from Ahmed to prove the authenticity of that claim. It was that disposition that made not a few chairmanship aspirants weep openly during the last exercise when they suddenly realised that without lobbying, without having to contribute ‘wel-

ISTORICALLY, there was never dearth of purposeful creative leadership in the African sub continent and among indigenous Africans. Indeed, history has it that civilization started from Africa with abundant evidence.

Pre-colonial Africa is replete with stories of redoubtable empire builders and astute political leaders. Then came the colonial invasion, experience of which debased our growth and disrupted African civilization in science, arts, and politics.

However, the same period threw up a leadership that fought to reclaim the soul of the black man.

It was to take the profound commitment of our early nationalists and pan Africanists to liberate Africa from colonial bondage and subjugation, which is what we enjoy today, but have added nothing. There was vibrant leadership across the continent. Even though we may appear to have lost the sense of history, we can still recall names like Herbert Macaulay, Kwame Nkrumah the Osagiefo, Julius Nyerere, Kenneth Kaunda, the Afro American warrior, Marcus Garvey and a host of others. The leaders at the time were ideologically rooted on the direction they wanted to take the continent and its people and they developed the form of government that would better serve the cultural and social milieu of the people.

In Nigeria, at independence, there was a crop of leadership that was selflessly committed to altruistic governance to bring development to the people. We cannot forget names like Sir Ahmadu Bello, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe, Aminu Kano and a few others who left a footprint on the sand of time. These are people that we venerate today to almost a point deity. We proudly point to the physical evidence of their leadership and philosophy. Their enterprising legacy in infrastructure and the economy are evergreen. The first generation universities in this country are products of their foresight and the place of education in building the people and a nation.

Today, our education is in ruins and tatters, no thanks to maladministration by university administrators and poor government policy. We undervalue education so much so that we allow schools to shut down for upward of one year and deny them funding while we revel ourselves as giants of Africa to the derision of the world. Those who can afford it now send their children to Ghana and even Republic of Benin even for as basic as secondary education; that is how bad it has become.

Look at the groundnut pyramid in the North, cocoa in the West and coal in the East. These were all products of the good thinking of those early leaders and politicians who were truly committed to serving their people. You cannot point to any investment and castles abroad belonging to those politicians of yore. Today, politicians across ethnic and ideological divides where there is any, shamelessly invoke the spirits and names of these venerated leaders whereas they do not share a scintilla of the principles and ideals that these leaders worked and died for. A Chief Awolowo would never have sold his birth-right for a pot of

fare packages’ to a godfather or godmother somewhere, they secured the ticket of the party for their councils. It was that structure that gave a Bolaji Abdullahi, proudly a journalist, the opportunity to become one of the best sports minister of the republic. It was that structure that gave a Zakari Mohammed, also a ‘mere’ journalist, the opportunity to become a member of the House of Representatives today. It is too early too to forget that that structure made Professor Abdulraheem Oba, who was never a politician but an outstanding academic, chairman of Federal Character Commission.

The list is endless because the structure is still churning out men and women of similar or even worse circumstances, projecting them into limelight where they can demonstrate their God-given talents. The lesson is that in Kwara, elective office is not the inheritance of a family or group of friends. And I am more comfortable relating with such a system than dealing with people who see public offices as their sole rights and who will run anyone down who seeks to expand the space of opportunities that God himself sanctions for all men.

Beyond this, the declaration also gave the governor an opportunity to present his agenda for the second term in office, which by the grace of God and the active support of the people, we believe shall be a reality. Like he did when canvassing for votes during his first term, the governor has bound himself to implement projects that will further transform the face of Kwara in a more positive way.

Here are his promises: “By the grace of God and with your mandate, we intend to accelerate the development of our state when reelected for a second term in office. I will boost local economy through the establishment of an Independent Power Projects (IPP) that will power industrial clusters across the state, stimulate jobs and improve power supply to our communities”.

Politics without principle

By Mike Kebonkwu porridge; even when he deservedly wanted to be the president of Nigeria for one day. He never was tossed by winds of opportunism and never compromised on his honours, integrity, and principles. That sage would be turning in his grave in grief when he sees those charlatans who are using his name and wearing his trademark cap but doing the opposite of what the man stood for.

The abysmal level of recession and decline in quality of political leadership in Nigeria today calls for a proper scrutiny and study of the genetic makeup of our politicians.

Today, the politicians live in wanton opulence and engage in obscene competition to outdo one another in display of their ill-gotten wealth in the ocean of penury they have inflicted on the people. We have leaders who say one thing in public and do the opposite without qualms about moral candour.

The politicians of today behave like buccaneers and pirates who care less about what is moral and good but more of what territory they conquer. They have hijacked the Nigerian leadership and held the masses of Nigeria hostage.

Let us for once remove the scales of religion, ethnicity and tell ourselves the hard truth. Look around you and point out any honest project that is executed across the country that any of our today’s politicians can lay claim to. Beside the orchestrated campaigns and misleading ads by the Transformation Ambassadors of Nigeria (TAN), there is no proof and physical evidence that we have got anything right or anything near it. The power sector is in comatose and most part of Nigeria apart from the capital cities are in total darkness. Citizens who can afford it generate their light, provide water for themselves and security is their headache.

The road networks across the country has remained the same nightmare to commuters, security has almost completely slipped from our hands, we are yet to rescue the young Chibok girls abducted over seven months ago by the Boko Haram sect.

As if that is not enough, the sect is daily gaining ground and claiming territory while the government tells the whole world that terrorism in Nigeria will soon be defeated. There is hardly anything you can pick and chose from the pack of the amalgam of both conservative and the progressive socalled. Most of them are driven by blind ambition and selfish personal greed. We have maniacs who want power for the sake of power. They follow the winds and waves to where their lots and fortune will be lubricated. Today, they are apostolic, tomorrow they are catholic, and the next day they

“By the grace of God, we will upscale our education reforms with the complete overhaul and modernization of 120 secondary schools across the state as we start the process of benchmarking our schools against global best practice. In terms of physical infrastructure, we will connect more of our communities with urban and rural roads, including roads designated as federal, thus opening up our state for greater development.

“By the first quarter of next year, we will take another bold step towards providing our youth with functional skills when the City and Guilds-affiliated International Vocational Centre, Ajasse-Ipo takes in its first set of students. This school will connect with our Quickwin initiative, under which a new crop of youth entrepreneurs is currently receiving vocational and entrepreneurship training, to fill middle level manpower gaps.

“In sports, we intend to completely overhaul and modernize the indoor sports hall of the Ilorin Township Stadium in line with high standards of Main Bowl and in order to promote sports development, especially among our youths. In 2015, we intend to get pipedwater to all homes in Ilorin metropolis through primary reticulation of the on-going Ilorin Reticulation Project. Outside the capital, new water projects will bring piped water to a greater number of our people.”

It is left for us to decide to work with Ahmed, to give our total support to the Saraki political structure and ensure a Kwara as a land of abundant opportunities for all. Not a state where our collective destiny will be determined a man or a woman in Abuja.

• Oba writes from Ilorin

‘Take it or leave, they came to celebrate what the ignorant deem to deride in Kwara which is the reality that in the Kwara of today, anybody, can become anything, provided you are within the right political structure’

free thinkers. Today, governance has taken a back seat because the political office holders are scheming for 2015 Elections.

Nobody bothers about delivery and performance so they want the President to anoint them for return to the Senate or whatever offices they presently occupy. This is because they are not counting on the votes of the electorate whom they have alienated and certainly would deny them a comeback for non performance. This is why Nigerians must be vigilant and insist that the Independent Electoral Commission (INEC) should show exemplary honour and patriotism and put the nation first for once. We have no doubt about the pedigree of Professor Atahiru Jega, the INEC chairman but our fear is that the political hawks may have built a nest round him to act out their script as a puppet. We watched the buffoonery and bizarre drama of the President’s declaration and the pain it inflicted on Abuja residents and environs. It was an extravagant wastage in all its ramifications.

Nothing can justify the human suffering inflicted on the people on that day; the cost in organization is mindboggling with hired crowd from all parts of the Federation. For God’s sake, the man has no rival, no competition as the party had adopted him as a consensus candidate. He could as well have addressed Nigerians on the Network News of his acceptance to graciously become our President come 2015 or better still fix the jamboree for a weekend. The carnival was a mockery of the state of the nation because it came less than 24 hours after the blood thirsty Boko Haram sect had slaughtered about 45 students in a secondary school in Potiskum, Yobe State.

For all the bogus statistics of achievements, the evidence are there that our roads are in parlous state of disrepair, there is insecurity everywhere you go; north, south, east or west.

Almost the entire country is in darkness, there is no running water as people in the rural areas still drink from the pond and dirty wells. Apart from the ubiquitous NGOs formed by Transformation Ambassadors of Nigeria, which has provided jobs for praise singers, unemployment is not abating. Where is our honour as a nation? Where is our integrity as political leaders? Where is our principle and ideology as a group?

How much longer do we hope to go with political leadership without principle? Someone should please help me find answers!

• Kebonkwu (Esq) writes from Abuja

‘For all the bogus statistics of achievements, the evidence are there that our roads are in parlous state of disrepair, there is insecurity everywhere you go; north, south, east or west. Almost the entire country is in darkness, there is no running water as people in the rural areas still drink from the pond and dirty wells’

THE NATION TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2014

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TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2014

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‘

I strongly believe that there is an urgent need for constitutional amendment to limit the jurisdiction of the Supreme Court in certain respects. For instance, interlocutory decisions, and cases where there are concurrent findings of fact by the two lower courts and there is no dispute as to the law, should terminate at the Court of Appeal.

‘

See page 39

E-mail:- law@thenationonlineng.net

Victims of terror receiving treatment

Women seek release of abducted school girls

Inside:

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has called for an international commission of inquiry to probe the Boko Haram insurgency. The party believes this will expose those behind Boko Haram and reveal whether or not the problem is being exploited for political and economic advantages. Is such an inquiry the way to go? Will it work?

JOSEPH JIBUEZE sought lawyers’ views.

Law to criminalise torture coming Page 27

Insurgency: Is international inquiry the way out?

Dame Jonathan as party firefighter Page 39

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THE NATION TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2014

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LAW COVER CONT’D

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ILL the battle against insurgents ever be won? To the All Progressives Congress (APC), the President Goodluck Jonathan administration has failed to contain the Boko Haram insurgents who have wreaked havoc in the Northeast, turning it into a mass killing field. It has, therefore, called for an international commission of inquiry to probe the problem.

Its National Chairman, Chief John OdigieOyegun said it is probable the insurgency is being used for political purposes.

He said: “We thought that a state of emergency will give our military the freedom to operate and so the nation supported the National Assembly when the President requested for a state of emergency. The state of emergency came and things have continued to degenerate. It is only logical that you ask yourself what could be wrong.

“As a matter of fact, we have, on a number of times, pleaded that an impartial international commission of inquiry be set up to look into the Boko Haram issue. Why is it what it is? Why is it growing at the rate it is growing? If necessary, tell us who are those behind it? Is it likely that the Boko Haram issue is now being exploited for political advantage?

“Nigerian troops have confronted equally savage situations in Liberia and Sierra Leone. They have paid with blood and dear lives to bring peace to other countries where the whole nation has broken down into total anarchy and succeeded. Why are we unable to succeed in our own backyard?

Ask yourself that question…”

‘The commission will be legitimate if the Nigerian government submits itself to its jurisdiction! That is what would determine its jurisdiction.’

•Nwobike

•Ubani

•Ofuokwu

•Akanwa

Basis for inquiry Since 2009, Boko Haram has claimed responsibility for thousands of deaths. Last May 14, Jonathan declared a state of emergency in Borno, Yobe, and Adamawa states in a bid to fight their activities.

Since the emergency, the insurgents’ assault has not abated. Boko Haram’s leader Abubakar Shekau, declared a “most dreaded and wanted” terrorist, with the United States offering a $7 million bounty for information leading to his arrest, took responsibility for the April kidnapping of over 200 school girls in Chibok. On May 6, eight more girls were kidnapped by suspected Boko Harâm gunmen. In a videotape, Shekau threatened to sell the kidnapped girls into slavery.

On May 5, Boko Haram attacked the twin towns of Gamboru and Ngala in Borno State. They started shooting at a busy marketplace, set houses on fire, and gunned down anyone who tried to flee. The death toll of the massacre was as high as 336.

Last week, at least 46 students were killed by a suicide bomber during a school assembly in the town of Potiskum. The suicide bomber was dressed as a student. Police suggested Boko Haram carried out the attack.

At least, 79 were wounded. The sect has targeted schools during a deadly five-year insurgency aimed at establishing an Islamic state.

On October 17, the Federal Government, through the Nigerian military, said it had agreed to a ceasefire with the violent sect and that the Chibok girls would be released.

The deal was announced by the Chief of Defence Staff, Air Marshal Alex Badeh. “A ceasefire agreement has been concluded between the Federal Government and the Jama’atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda’awati wal Jihad (Boko Haram),” he said.

The President’s Principal Secretary, Hassan Tukur, added: “The Boko Haram members have assured us that they have the girls and that they would release them. I am cautiously optimistic.”

It was reported that officials met with Boko Haram in Chad twice during talks mediated by Chadian President Idriss Deby.

But a day after the ceasefire announcement, eight people were mowed down in Dzur Village in Borno, extinguishing whatever hopes anyone nursed of a truce.

Two weeks later, Boko Haram laughed off the announcement of a ceasefire agreement, saying there was no such deal and the schoolgirls abducted in April have been converted to Islam and married off.

Is an international inquiry feasible?

It is not the first time APC will demand an international inquiry. On July 12, it called for an international commission to unravel Boko Haram’s sponsors, mode of operation, as well as any individual or group that may have links with the insurgents.

Its National Publicity Secretary, Lai Mohammed, said the inquiry should include intelligence experts from the United States,

Insurgency: Is international inquiry the way out?

United Kingdom, France and Canada, as well as representatives of the United Nations and Nigeria’s neighbours Cameroon, Chad and Niger.

It also said representatives of the Nigerian military and other security agencies, especially the police and the Departments of State Security, states worst-hit by the Boko Haram insurgency including Adamawa, Borno, Yobe, Kano, Bauchi and Jigawa, the Federal Capital Territory; the Christian Association of Nigeria, the Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, Civil Society Organisations, the Nigeria Labour Congress, the Trade Union Congress, National Human Rights Commission, the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) and any other relevant individuals or groups should be included in the probe.

Dr Joseph Nwobike (SAN) said an international commission of inquiry may not be the answer. “Has it worked anywhere in the world? No, is the simple answer. What the international community should do is to arm and train the Nigerian security forces to defeat the sect.

“So far, the Nigerian armed forces have not received any such assistance, despite the assurances,” Nwobike said.

A constitutional lawyer, Mr Ike Ofuokwu, said APC’s demand “is not entirely misplaced considering the monumental havoc and damage these criminal elements have unleashed on this country.”

However, he said for such an inquiry to hold, it would require the National Assembly to promulgate an enabling law to give legitimacy to such commission besides the fact that it could compromise the country’s sovereignty.

On the way out, he said: “The Federal Government should have the political will to contend with this sect by declaring a fullscale war and with the approval of the National Assembly impose a full emergency over the states and if we are finding it difficult to execute this war, we should apply for military assistance.

“There is no point shying away from applying for help with the countries that we have defence/military pacts with. The state of emergency declared over a year ago has not yielded any result because of its partial nature.

“With the abduction of the Chibok girls and the recent killing of about 50 students few days ago, its a clear indication that if the insurgents are not crushed then Nigeria as a nation would most likely be crushed.

“It is certain that some criminal elements close to government and outside the government are benefiting economically and politically from this whole crisis. The purported ceasefire only existed in the deranged imagination of the profiteers of this whole crisis,” he said.

A former Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Ikeja Branch chairman, Monday Ubani, said there had already been inquiries on Boko Haram the reports of which have not been implemented.

Besides, he said the international commission could face legal and political hurdles.

“My conclusion is that even if you allow such an impartial commission (assuming it is legally feasible), their findings will not be accepted by both the ruling and opposition parties, and if it is not accepted, its findings and recommendations will never be implemented. Therefore, why should we dissipate our energy and resources on things that we all know from the beginning will be a wasted exercise.

“The second hurdle is the legality of such exercise under our constitution. Even though Nigeria is a signatory to so many international treaties and agreements, it is still a sovereign state and so may not want any country or body to interfere in her domestic matters, just as many countries and bodies may not want to interfere in our domestic issues.

“The third and potent hurdle is which body or person will invite the international body, and under what Section of the Constitution will the commission be con-

stituted? If the Federal Government under the control of the PDP invites the international body to constitute the ‘impartial commission’, the opposition party is likely to cry foul and may likely discredit the body on grounds that it is already compromised.

“The opposition party cannot invite anybody or organisation to constitute such a commision under our laws either. The further issue for consideration is which international body are we going to ask to constitute the impartial body? Is it AU or UN? So many questions begging for answers!”

Ubani said.

Ubani, an NBA National Executive Council member, said Nigeria’s federalism, which he likened to a ‘unitary system’ aggravates its security challenges.

“Finally, we must agree by mutual consent to stay together as one indivisible nation. That agreement to stay together is yet to be reached by all the ethnic nationalities,”Ubani added.

Lagos lawyer Olukayode Enitan said there could never be an “impartial” inquiry by any commission. “Though it’s the APC calling for the commission, who is going to determine its membership? Who’s interest will they be protecting when the chips are down and when we take into consideration the fact that every nation has its own interests to protect and that there is no permanent friend but permanent interests in international diplomacy? ”Those calling for the commission have not thought it through, unfortunately!

However, the commission will be legitimate if the Nigerian government submits itself to its jurisdiction! That in my opinion is what would determine the jurisdiction of such a commission,” he said.

He added that insurgency can best be tackled when the government develops the political will to deal with it.

“The war will ultimately be won when the government rises above base interests and focuses on national interests! Regardless of who is where,” he said.

A member of the Ogun State Judicial Service Commission, Abayomi Omoyinmi, said setting up impartial international commission of inquiry to probe Boko Haram may not yield the desired result in revealing those behind it.

“The international commission of inquiry may have to derive its power through the enactment of special law as it may fall short of requirement under international law which decisions sometimes are mere advisory and not enforceable.

“The govt should mobilise and motivate our soldiers by supporting them with the best ammunitions used in combating this type of insurgency and let the army be psychologically and emotionally involved in the war as way of tackling insurgency,” he said.

Lagos lawyer and activist Mr Theophilus Akanwa said such a probe would be in order.

“I am in support of the commission of enquiry to unravel those behind the sponsorship of Boko Baram. I do not think it is against the international laws. It is absolutely necessary because the government of the day has done little or nothing on various allegations against so many prominent Nigerians accused of sponsoring the sect.

“When Ali Modu Sheriff was accused of being behind Boko Haram, he was shortly seen with Mr President in Chad. Although spokesperson of Mr President explained that Sheriff was there for a different mission, the unanswered question is, what has the presidency done on the allegation against these prominent Nigerians?

“The commission of enquiry is absolutely needed as this government may not want to step on toes. Section 14 (2) (b) of the 1999 constitution provides that the primary purpose of government is the security and welfare of its citizens. This government must rise up to its primary duty to Nigerians and fight the Boko Haram head-on and immediately bring to an end the killings of innocent Nigerians,” Akanwa said.

THE NATION TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2014

27

BOOK REVIEW

National transformation, road map to security

I

POSSIBLY will never know greater honour in my life than to be invited by my hero and mentor Professor Ben Nwabueze to review the third volume of his autobiography As a student of constitutional law, the invitation to review this seminal work is a testament by a master that his student has come of age and this testimonial is more of an endorsement for me than a platform for profound scholarly exposition.

Prof Ben Nwabueze in my estimation is the greatest Constitutional law Scholar in human history. The depth and breadth of his seminal works in this area put him in a class of his own. It is manifestly so evident that A.V. Dicey, Wheare, De Smith, Laurence Tribe, Hodd and many other emerging Constitutional Law Scholars did not impact the subject in such a way and manner as Nwabueze did. Simply put, he is a genius.

What stands out Nwabueze shoulder and head above his peers is his pragmatic approach to constitutional engineering. He not only propounded principles, theories and doctrines, he interrogated the effect and relevance of his postulations in the constitutional evolution and development of many countries of the world. His life and works are therefore totally dedicated to developing a road map for enthronement of constitutionalism and good governance.

In his preface to this 517 page book, the author stated as follows: “This volume of my autobiography (Volume 3) is a continuation of the story of my life and work told in volumes 1 and 2. It enlarges the last part of the story as contained in part III of volume 2, this accounts for some repetition that occurs. The volume might be described as embodying and culminating 1 would not say final-- thoughts on Nigeria.

The volume deals with concepts, principles, political and social issues, and not so much even with individual actors except former President Olusegun Obasanjo, General Sani Abacha and one or two others. It has therefore nothing to do with my private or personal life, a full account of which is contained in volume 1 . The volume may not therefore provide a reading comparable in excitement with volume 1 or even volume 2.”

It would appear that the author in ranking this volume lower than volumes 1 and 2 in terms of providing exciting reading grossly under estimated the relevance of the issues discussed in this volume with the Nigerian project. Indeed, I dare to mention, none of the 32 seminal works of the author preceding this autobiography ranks in comparison in terms of pragmatic contribution to our national quest for a new better and united Nigeria. In his other books, the author’s brilliance as a leading constitutional lawyer shone ever so brightly. But in his final thoughts on Nigeria, the author assumed his rightful place as an agenda_ setting thinker, an opinion leader and moulder, an influential elder statesman, a courageous patriot, a pan-Nigerian nationalist and Nigeria’s voice of reason amidst the cacophony of self seek-

Title:

Author:

My life and work in the search for a new, better and united Nigeria.

An Autobiography (Volume 3).

Prof. Ben Nwabueze (SAN)

Reviewer: Prof Epiphany Azinge (SAN) Pages: 517 ing praise singers and sycophantic opportunistic hero worshippers.

In part 1 of the book, the author extensively addressed National transformation as the road map to security, progress and nation building. Whilst the author accepts the transformation agenda nation building of Government as crucial for national growth and development, he questions its limitation to economic policies only.

In his words, “social and ethical transformation implies the creation of a new society and the creation of such a new society would entail changes of two types a radical transformation of the material conditions of society and what has been called an inner mutation” ie a spiritual or mental transformation in the attitudes and behavioral patterns of the individuals member of society”.

The defining aspect of the book is the exposition on transforming Nigeria through a national conference.

Here the originality of the author as the finest constitutional Lawyer is well displayed. In a breathtaking and gripping argument for National Conference, the author highlighted the following as the basis for national conference. They are as follows (a) Transforming Nigeria with its vast diversity of ethnic nationalities into a nation. (b) Federalism as a constitutional device for facilitating the creation of a nation in a territorially extensive and socially diverse country like Nigeria. (c) The unity in diversity approach in Nigeria’s constitution marked by over concentration of powers and financial resources at the centre but without entirely sacrificing ethnic diversity. (d) Legal framework for the convening and holding of a national conference and for the approval of a people’s constitution.

The author undoubtedly secured his place in our national history by not only pushing for a national conference but by comprehensively addressing the question posed in chapter 14 of this book, which is “ will the national conference as now convoked and constituted by President Jonathan, be effective in realizing our aspirations for a new, better and united Nigeria?

In part II of this autobiography, the reader easily connects with the author’s exposition on the many problems of Nigeria standing in the way of the search for peace, progress and nation building. Here reference is made to (a) The North -South Divide. (b) forces militating against democracy in Nigeria eg Elite ruling class; the political class; the after effects of Prolonged Military Rule; human rights violators of a nature,

dimension or scale repugnant to the whole essence or ethos of human rights in a democratic society; wholesale election riggings and other electoral malpractices; corruption and other corrupt practices and abuse; pervasive culture of impunity in governance; lingering mass illiteracy; ignorance and poverty, structure of the Nigerian society; the weakness of civil society; absence of the spirit of liberty and democracy; absence of the spirit or habit of respect for the rule of law and of the habit of order; the phenomenon of democracy without democrats.

In his characteristic candour, the author brilliantly interrogated these forces militating against democracy and proffered solutions to the problems.

Flowing from this is a well researched treatise by the author on Militancy and Insurgency. The reader is invited to note the depth of scholarship deployed by the author in distinguishing between militancy and Insurgency, his views on the call for amnesty for the Boko Haram Insurgents and his support for dialogue as the appropriate approach for addressing the insurgency challenge .

Anyone reading this exciting autobiography will undoubtedly be sucked in by the authors answers to the question he posed in chapter 14 of the book _ to wit_ “ is Nigeria a failed State or on the way to becoming one “Though the indices used by the author may be considered as veritable tools of neoliberalism, it is still not in dispute that the author raised sufficient alarm that serious minded citizens cannot afford to gloss over. The book is enriched by inclusion by the author of suggestions by the patriots as to the things to be done to halt the slide into the ultimate stage of failure of the state.

The concluding part of this autobiography highlights basically institutional and other means available or that may be devised in the search for solutions to Nigeria’s problems. This part of the book is extremely insightful and thought provoking. Again the reader is invited by the author to personally evaluate efforts made by the Patriots (of which he is a prominent member) to proffer solution to Nigeria’s problems. Students of history and political science will definitely find this part of the book most illuminating especially with reference to invitation to fathers of the nation to intercede in order to save our nation. The author’s final thoughts in this volume finds expression in his analysis of state ceremonies marking certain significant ideas or events as a means of creating in the people a feeling of belonging and of patriotism. His views on significance of Independence and justification for its celebration; celebrating the end of military rule and not regarding it as democracy day; the significance of the 1914 amalgamation and whether its gains overwhelmingly outweigh its deleterious consequences to justify celebrating its centenary are all forcefully and logically canvassed. Even if one is not inclined to agree with him on some of his views on the matter, one cannot ignore the intellectual depth of is postulations.

Comments For a life that inspires debate on thorny issues of national importance, Prof Ben Nwabueze remains a national treasure. For his capacity to reduce very intricate legal issues to simple and readable prose, Prof Nwabueze is an academic icon. For being able to chronicle his autobiography in 3 large volumes, Prof Nwabueze is a gift to humanity.

One will always wonder how the author over the years has been able to gather together newspaper cuttings and file documents that have proved handy for this seminal work. Prof Ben Nwabueze will always remain an enigma to those who are not close to him but to those who are privileged to read his works, he is nothing but a genius.

This superlative quality again is well demonstrated in this volume 3 of his autobiography titled Ben Nwabueze: My life and work in the search for a new, better and united Nigeria.

Is this likely to be his final thoughts on issues concerning Nigeria? Definitely not! I have no doubt that as God gives him life and good health, we certainly will be reading more of the exciting contributions of Ben Nwabueze to national discourse. Will there be a volume 4 of the autobiography?.This again cannot be ruled out. The author has the intimidating credentials as a five star researcher to put together another volume of his autobiography. Indeed many Nigerians are looking forward to his comments and commentaries on the 2015 election. I am definitely not an exception.

It is therefore my honour and privilege to warmly recommend this well-packaged, well researched and exciting autobiography (volume 3) of Prof Ben Nwabueze to students and practitioners of Law, Politics, constitutionalism, constitutional engineering, the Nigerian public and the global community at large.

Law to criminalise torture coming

W

ITH a sustained commitment on the part of the office of the AttorneyGeneral of the Federation and the Presidency, perpetrators of torture and related degrading and inhuman treatment will soon be made to stand trial in addition to civil remedies already provided for victims under the laws.

The Nigerian Law Reform Commission (NLRC), a body headed by former Governor of Edo State and Professor of Law, Senator Oserheimen Osunbor, has proposed a Bill for a law to criminalise torture and related inhuman acts.

Last week in Abuja, the NLRC subjected the “draft Bill on prevention and prohibition of torture, cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment and other related matters,” to the scrutiny of Law experts and representatives of rights advocacy groups and others at a two-day national workshop which held between November 3 and 4.

The workshop, which was also intended to seek ways of ensuring the reform of the powers of the Police to arrest, search and detain, was held NLRC under the “support to justice sector in Nigeria project being executed by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), with funding from the European Union (EU).

Participants, who made series of contributions on how to improve on the proposed

From Eric Ikhilae, Abuja

Bill, were unanimous on the fact that the nation cannot delay any longer in enacting law that criminalises torture and related practices as investigative tools by security agencies and others in the country.

The Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF), Mohammed Adoke (SAN), Prof Osunbor, Prof Yemi Akinseye-George (SAN) and former Prosecutor at the International Criminal Court, Ade Omofade, said this in Abuja.

They observed that while the nation’s Constitution and laws frown at the torture and view it as degrading and inhuman treatment, it is not criminalised, therefore making it impossible for perpetrators to be prosecuted.

They argued that in view of the global condemnation of the continued application torture as investigative tool by security agencies in the country, the civil remedies provided for in the nation’s statute books were no longer adequate.

Adoke, who was represented by an aide, Oteh Pius Imoistikeme, argued that the prohibition of torture and related practices by the Constitution was insufficient. He said the civil remedies provided under the nation’s legal system, will be better aided by the enactment of law that criminalises torture.

He advised participants at the workshop

•From left: Prof Osunbor, Justice Tinu Komolafe-Wilson and Prof Akinseye George at the event.

to examine issues relating to “what to do with evidence procured through torture, investigating acts of torture, protection of witnesses and persons reporting acts of torture,” and their possible inclusion in the actual Bill.

Osunbor, who is the Chairman of the NLRC, explained that the workshop is meant to produce “a proposal for a law on prevention and prohibition of torture, cruel, inhuman and degrading treatment or punishment and other related matters in Nigeria.”

He noted that the enactment of a law on torture will enable the country’s government fulfil

its international obligations including compliance with the United Nations Convention Against Torture.

Osunbor said the project, which was conceived by his commission about a year ago was not influenced by the recent damning report by the Amnesty International, detailing cases of torture by security agencies in the country.

Omofade, who is the Project Coordinator, UNODC, Nigeria’s Justice Sector Reform, said the inadequacies contained in existing provisions informed the need for a law to prohibit torture and related practices.

THE NATION TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2014

28

LAW & SOCIETY

UI honours ex-NBA chief Olanipekun

T

HE University of Ibadan (UI) has con ferred an honourary Doctor of Law (LL.D) on a former Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) president Chief Oluwole Oladapo Olanipekun (SAN).

It is in recognition of his contributions to the legal profession and to education in Nigeria.

He was until April, last year, the Pro-Chancellor/Chairman of Council of UI. Olanipekun was born on November18, 1951 at Ikere-Ekiti. He attended Amoye Grammar School, Ikere-Ekiti, Ilesha Grammar School, Ilesha, University of Lagos (UNILAG), the Nigerian Law School and was called to the Nigerian Bar in July, 1976.

This erudite lawyer started his career as a Lecturer at Kwara State College of Technology, Ilorin in 1976. Olanipekun was a junior counsel in the Chambers of Oniyangi & Co, Ilorin between 1977 and 1979 where he acquired the skills that enabled him to bestride the legal profession like a colossus.

In 1980, he became the Principal Partner of Messrs Wole Olanipekun & Co, Ilorin, with offices in Lagos and Abuja.

As a result of his harwork, he was conferred with the prestigious rank of the Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) in 1991. He has been a Notary Public since 1987.

He was NBA president between 2002 and 2004; member, International Bar Association (IBA), Commonwealth Lawyers’ Association (CLA), Pan African Lawyers’ Union (PALU), Nigerian Bar Association Disciplinary Committee, West African Bar Associa-

By John Austin Unachukwu

tion (WABA) and Chartered Institute of Arbitrators.

He was the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice in Ondo State between 1992 and 1993, a member of Council of Legal Education, Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee, General Council of the Bar, Governing Council, University of Ado-Akiti, National Judicial Council among others. He is today a Life member of the National Executive Committee of the NBA as well as a Life Bencher.

He was honoured with the Distinguished Alumnus Award of the Faculty of Law, Unilag in 1992 and the Merit Alumnus Award of both Amoye Grammar School, Ikere-Ekiti and Ilesha Grammar School, Ilesha in 1999.

He was recognised as a leader in achievement in Ondo State in 1994, honoured with Merit Award Certificate as an illustrious son of Ikere in 1996 and conferred with Aare Bamofin of Owo in 1995, among others.

A philanthropist, Olanipekun has positively impacted on many people in different and diverse areas of life, including education, religion, industry and employment.

In 1996, he set up the Wole Olanipekun Scholarship Scheme for awarding scholarships to brilliant but indigent students and since then, the scheme has produced many talented beneficiaries, some of whom are now doctors, lawyers, engineers, pharmacists, accountants, educationists etc.

In February 2009, he built, equipped and

donated a modern IT building to Amoye Grammar School, Ikere-Ekiti. Also in March 2012, God provided for him the means to donate a modern Vicarage to St. Peter’s Anglican Church, Ikere. In July 2011, he planted an Endowment Fund for junior lawyers, particularly in the Lagos and Ilorin branches of the NBA. Seven junior lawyers from the NBA Ilorin branch, were beneficiaries of cars given to them by the branch from the proceeds of the Endowment Fund, while over 100 young lawyers from the Lagos branch were beneficiaries of lap-tops and flash drives distributed to them from the proceeds of the endowment. He single-handedly built and donated to the Faculty of Law of the University of Ibadan a 420-seater fully-equipped and furnished Auditorium,which was inaugurated by the Minister of Education in November, 2012.

He is a patron to the Law Students’ Society in UNILAG, UNILORIN, U.I, UNAD, OAU, Ife and Igbinedion University. He has presented over 200 papers on diverse topics within and outside Nigeria. He has contributed several chapters to legal books, publications, journals etc. His clients include corporate bodies, national and international institutions, individuals, politicians, banks, companies, industries, corporations, ministries etc.

This legal icon was conferred with the national honour of Officer of the Order of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (OFR) by President Goodluck Jonathan on September 17,

•Olanipekun 2012 in recognition of his invaluable contributions to the growth and development of the legal system and justice. He was also bestowed with the fellowship of the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies (NIALS) for his contributions to the advancement of the legal profession on December 10, last year.

A stickler for excellence, Chief Wole Olanipeku is a role model and father figure to numerous members of the younger generation.

Thirty years after they left the Faculty of Law, University of Ife, IIe-Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University), the 1984 class met in Lagos for a reunion dinner, reports JOSEPH JIBUEZE.

When OAU’s old law students meet M

OST of them are in their late 50s, but when the 1984 law graduates of the Uni versity of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University), Ile-Ife met in Lagos at the weekend, the scene was like a group of undergraduates having a good time.

It was a happy occasion; they met at the Radisson Blu in Victoria Island to mark the 30th anniversary of their graduation with a reunion dinner.

The array of exotic cars, flowing traditional attires (agbada) by the men and gorgeous wrappers (with headgears to match) by the women bore witness to the status many of them have attained.

Among them are judges, business owners, professors, managers of big law firms and directors in banks and other companies.

It was an informal occasion as the members recalled their days in schools, and were called by the nicknames they were known. There was dancing and exchange of banters.

The Coordinator, Prof Bolaji Owasanoye of the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies (NIALS), said being alive 30 years after graduation was worth celebrating. He remembered departed colleagues, which he said is a reminder that “life is a game of cards that deals us many hands”.

“It is most gratifying that after 30 years of work, we can afford the luxury of dinner in a world class hotel, especially in such trying times when insurgency and terrorism have declared total war on formal education in the Northeast.

“These happenings are sober penalty for long years of neglect by the political leadership of the region with the complicity of the central government and the rest of us. Having unleashed the demon of insurgency, we are further impairing our ability to deliver education as we use our scare resources to prosecute an avoidable civil war,” he said.

He recalled the days when meals in school cost 50 kobo and students had ice cream on Sundays, saying: “Getting education is no longer what it used to be and the standards have simply declined.”

He urged alumni to do their bit to enhance the quality of education in the faculty and sustain the legacy they received and handed over.

The Dean, Faculty of Law, OAU, Prof Olu Adediran, urged the old students to help with reequipping the faculty’s furniture. “We’re still using the 1984 long, collapsible seats,” he said.

Besides, he said they could provide support by financing prizes for outstanding students, establishing fellowships which will be named after them, and donating professorial chairs.

National Programme Manager, DfiD/British Council J4A Project, Dr Bob Arnot, who gave the dinner speech entitled: Driving in Nigeria, drew a correlation between the mode of driving in the country and corruption.

He said it is common to see people drive on pavements, grasses, speed on slow lanes, text while driving (apart of from receiving calls), avoid queues at junctions and create multiples lanes, overtake without signaling, park in churches and mosques without consideration for others and allow children to stand in vehicles.

The lawlessness exhibited by most drivers, he said, is part of the impunity in the system where people commit crimes and get away with them, just as they get away with corruption.

“Nobody is held to account. The crazy driver is never held to account,” adding that due not inadequate records, law enforcement agents cannot even trace a person to his home. According to him, there is also a lack of social contract between the public and government, which he said leads to a disjointed relationship between leaders and the citizens. The solution, he added, requires “a massive change in social consciousness.”

•From left: Prof Owasanoye, his wife Funso and Dr Arnot

•From left: Prof Funso Fabunmi, Prof Magaret Okorodudu-Fubara and Prof Ayo Atsenuwa

•Prof. Adediran

LEGAL DIARY Group begins prison campaign with dinner Prison Fellowship Nigeria (PFN) holds Green Ribbon Campaign launch dinner under the chairmanship of Chief Ganiyu Koledoye Date: November 20, 2014 Venue: Sheraton Hotel & Towers, Mobalaji Bank Anthony way, Ikeja Lagos.

Time: 6.00pm Dinner conversation: “Crime prevention via structured rehabilitation and reintegration of ex-convicts •The role of corporate organisation” Guest speaker: Dr. Paul Ananaba (SAN)

•From left:Anthonia Ubaka, Elizabeth Ayodele and Justice Tokunbo Majekodunmi of the Ogun State High Court

Nigeria’s widest circulating newspaper

AN 8-PAGE PULLOUT ON NORTHERN STATES

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2014

PAGE 29

Fed. Govt. to ITF: Create 2m jobs annually •PAGE 30

Why Buhari should be president,

by Shagaya •PAGE 32

•Mohammed Idriss Way, Potiskum

Potiskum: Shattered, insecure after attack

Potiskum has been hit before but after the latest suicide attack on a boys school, residents of Yobe State’s largest city are shattered and deeply suspicious of one another, reports DUKU JOEL

S

OME reckon that after the suicide attack on a school in Potiskum, it will take a long time for the wounds to heal. About 50 people died following the assault, while many more sustained injuries.

The deeper wounds, however, are not physical. Residents of this once thriving town have been terribly shaken. Many have lost their appetite for social life. Worshippers are far less eager to gather in their mosques and churches, preferring to pray outside the town.

The people have grown increasingly suspicious of one another since a bomber in school uniform detonated a devastating device at the assembly ground of a boys school in the town. Some residents have even fled. Potiskum is no longer the same.

The residents are no more worried about bullets, nor about assassins as they once were. The immediate scare is Boko Haram’s suicide bombers. The soul of this hitherto vibrant commercial city, the largest in the state, has been dealt a crushing blow.

‘We are completely devastated.

Look at our children who have died in this manner. Only Allah will heal us from this mess…Things can never be the same in this town again.

These Boko Haram boys have cheated us’ Like many other towns in the Northeast, Potiskum has had its share of heinous attacks orchestrated by the Boko Haram insurgents.

In May 2012, over 100 people were killed in an attack on a cattle market, one of the largest in West Africa. The attack took place in the peak of trading activities on a market day when traders were making their last minutes purchases.

Apart from human losses, over 1000 cows, sheep and goats were killed and an unquantifiable amount of money lost.

But for divine intervention, the Emir of Fika would have been a victim of a suicide attack in a mosque near his palace after Friday prayers.

His police orderly was not lucky as he was killed alongside the bomber.

The Yobe State Deputy Speaker of

the House of Assembly Abubakar Degubi was also brutally assassinated in Potiskum in the presence of his family. Churches have also been burnt in the area.

Potiskum has not always been the target for violent criminals.

Alhaji Yusuf Isa, chair of the state chapter of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) who was born and brought up in Potiskum, painted an enchanting picture of the city.

“Growing up in Potiskum was really fun,” he said. “Even as an adult, there was never a dull moment.

Potiskum was a very vibrant city in terms of business, social and religious life.

It’s a very commercially-oriented city that bubbled with life 24 hours.

“Children were engaged with their Quranic or Western educational activities while the adults were busy buying and selling.

“But all that has changed now. I can say without mincing words that these crises have dealt a heavy blow on the soul of the town. People no •Continued on page 30

Day Jonathan shut down Abuja

•PAGE 33

Nyanya bomb blast victim needs N5.3m for surgery

•PAGE 34

THE NATION TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2014

30

THE NORTH REPORT

T

HE Industrial Training Fund (ITF) has been directed to train 2m workers annually in order to scale back the country’s woeful unemployment numbers. In a country of around 170m much more people are said to be jobless than those working.

That was why the ITF, a human capital development unit of the Federal Government, has been asked to help tackle the jobs challenge.

But, created over 30 years ago, the Fund has trained only 10 million workers. How then can it get 2m working in just one year?

It is not such a problem, said its Director-General in Jos, Juliet Chukkas-Onaekon. At a forum with reporters in the Plateau State capital, she said, “ITF is Nigeria’s wheel of industry, and it will not see its new mandate to create 2 million jobs annually as insurmountable. Our new mandate is to train 2 million Nigerians annually. It is part of the Nigerian Industrial Revolution Development Plan (NIRDP) designed recently

by President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan’s administration. In this plan, the federal government has opened the door for new investors for the establishment of new industries. The dead industries will also be revived. If this feat could be achieved, the population of unemployed Nigerians in the Labour market will be reduced by half.

She said, “Recently, car manufacturing industries have begun to come up in Nigeria; they now produce spare part for cars. They will expand from producing parts to manufacture a complete car in Nigeria. Then we will stop importing cars into this

•ITF D-G, Dr. Juliet ChukkasOnaekon

•Some of the ITF directors

Fed. Govt. to ITF: Create 2m jobs annually From Aminu Yusufu-Idegu, Jos

country because there would be a company that will manufacture cars here.

“Through a research, ITF has realized that the smaller industries generate more employment than the bigger industries. Hence, the federal government has created Micro, Small and Medium scale Council of Nige-

ria (MSMES). This council will ensure that these small industries can be encouraged to create jobs for our youths. In addition to this, a job creation board has also been established and given a mandate to create 3 million jobs annually, while we in ITF train the skilled workers to fit into these industries.

Dr. Chukkas-Onaekon stressed, “Nigerians will be surprised to know

that a lot of our graduates looking for jobs today are not employable.

Majority of them cannot even defend their acclaimed certificates. But ITF can make them employable through skill training. We shall identify these unemployed graduate across the country and train them in skills, they will get jobs once they acquire relevant skills. There are lots of job vacancies in Nigeria and abroad but

Potiskum: Shattered, insecure after attack •Continued from page 29 longer trust one another. People are afraid of crowds because you don’t know who is carrying what next to you. The economy of the town and its religious and social lives are now negatively affected. You will be surprised to hear that some people prefer to pray outside villages than inside Potiskum town on Fridays for fear of the unknown,” Isa said.

Mr. Daniel Omale who was in the town for his National Youth Service 10 years ago and later worked in Damaturu, was still fond of the Corpers Lodge in Potiskum. Now, he cannot even afford to spare one day to attend the wedding of his wife’s relatives in the town because of the fear of being caught up in a suicide attack.

Omale how lively and enjoyable

•A Boko Haram blast scene

his service year went with the bustling life in Potiskum.

“I still remember vividly how we used to hang out at places like Dorowa, Army Barracks and all of that. In fact people were very free to do what they wanted without any form of restraint, fear or molestation.

As a Catholic we used to have procession for Palm Sunday in the town. All that can’t happen now with what is going on. The last time I visited Potiskum was in 2010 and I noticed that a lot of people had fled the town for fear of Boko Haram which has crippled business completely in the area,” Omale said.

In August two suicide bombers launched what many described as coordinated attacks on two mosques in different locations of Potiskum town. The attack was targeted at worshippers during the evening prayer around 7:30.

The affected mosques were the Alkali Kalli mosque just a few meters away from the emir of Fika Palace and the Sakafa mosque located at the busy Potiskum central market.

Last week’s attack on Potiskum has more than ever left many devastated in the town with the killing of over 30 innocent students on a secondary school barely a week after a suicide bomber had his way marching along with some Shiite Muslim members before blowing himself up at the middle of the procession.

The attacks angered the youths of the town who protested against security agents barring them from entering the hospital. The youths barred the commissioner of Police and the state commissioner of Education from getting access to the hospital to get first hand information on the blast.

The Police Commissioner Marcus

Danladi who was in Potiskum with all his security team and the Yobe State of Commissioner Mohammed Alamin could not go to the scene of the event for fear of being lynched by the angry mob.

The CP however went to the palaces of the two Emirs in the town to solicit for calm of the residents to allow the security people do their job.

The Emir of Fika, Dr. Muhammadu Ibn Abali Muhamadu Idrissa told the CP that he has sent some people to go to the scene and pled with the angry people to allow security do their job, adding that what happened with the Shiite people some days ago has aggravated anger in people”.

He condemns the act describing it as “callous and wicked”. He called on the local people to collaborate with security in the fight against the insurgency.

Irked by the attack on the school children, the Emir of Fika and chair of Yobe State Council of Chiefs, Dr. Muhammadu Ibn Abali Muhammadu Idrissa has summoned all the District Heads, Ward Heads and Village Heads under his domain to monitor the behaviour of their subjects.

The monarch tasked his aids in a security meeting held at his Palace few days after the blast. The meeting according to an insider was geared towards minimizing attacks and killings of innocent souls in the town.

According to him, ”we are indeed disturbed with multiple explosions in Potiskum town within one week

there are few qualified applicants.

There are vacancies begging for the right applicants to fill in this country, but our graduates cannot fit into theses vacancies because they are not skillful. That is where ITF comes in, we will bring these graduate back for skill training which last just few months and they will be qualified •Continued on page 31 time, it is unfortunate and saddening that our young School Children were murdered while learning for their future, I therefore urge all of you to monitor the behaviors of your children, relatives, neighbors and tenants, anyone willing to occupy a house in your area must be thoroughly interrogated so that criminals would not hide in your places, you are expected to report to the security agencies any suspicious movements in your domains, I have always told you security is a collective responsibility, we need your maximum cooperation to return peace in our town, I also appeal to you to organize peace prayer,” the Emir charged..

In the meeting, over 30 District Heads, Ward Heads and Village Heads were in attendance with a collective commitment to support the Emir in the attempt to ensure the return of peace.

In his views, the Emir of Potiskum, Alhaji Bubara Ibn Wuriwa Bauya described as unfortunate that is happening in the Northeast and the entire country.

He disclosed that he will call an expanded meeting of all his chiefs to discuss the way forward in collaborating with security to foster peace among the people.

He regretted the mob action at the hospital and the school, stressing that it is alien to his domain.

“We really don’t know these people that are protesting. It is very bad to stage this kind of action at this critical time in the event of what is happening is wrong. We need the security people around us and we need to cooperate with them to fish out the bad people among,” the royal father said.

‘I can say without mincing words that these crises have dealt a heavy blow on the soul of the town. People no longer trust one another. People are afraid of crowds because you don’t know who is carrying what next to you. The economy of the town and its religious and social lives are now negatively affected. You will be surprised to hear that some people prefer to pray outside villages than inside Potiskum town on Fridays for fear of the unknown’

THE NATION TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2014

31

THE NORTH REPORT ‘2015 elections will make Nigeria stronger’ From Adekunle Jimoh, Ilorin

T

HOUGH some think next year’s general elections will be a decisive one, perhaps witnessing the breakup of the country, Nigerians have been assured of even a stronger nation.

The General Overseer of Abundant Life Gospel Church, Rev Jane Onaolapo gave the assurance, adding that those expecting doom are in for a shock. She blamed such negative dispositions on what she called lack of patriotism.

Rev. Onaolapo was speaking with reporters in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital, at an event marking the 30th anniversary of the church.

She was optimistic that the country would triumph over its current daunting security and other challenges.

The cleric, who said the nation needed good-spirited individuals to lead the country to glory, added that the church has been doing its best to teach people in public office to be righteous, saying, “when the righteous rule, there’s peace”.

She also said that the country has potential to be greater than its present level of development, adding that leaders must have love of their people at heart to overcome the scourge of poverty, joblessness and insecurity.”

The general overseer said the church has spent N2.1 million to sink boreholes “for our host communities in Ibadan and Ilorin.”

She said further that it also sandfilled and graded a 1km road leading to the church premises from Oko-Erin Junction at the cost of N300,000.

“We have also provided 1,150 bed-sheets at Ifako Ijaiye General Hospital last year, about 25 beneficiaries are also enjoying scholarships in Abundant Life Nursery and Primary School,” she said.

The cleric said that plans were underway to establish a leadership training school to be used as a platform for training and preparing young men and women desiring to take up leadership positions in various arms of government.

She was confident that God will be sending the church to revive the nation and be an instrument to effect the much-desired and awaited change in the country, even as she warned politicians to always discharge their duties in line with the mandate of God.

‘Plans were underway to establish a leadership training school to be used as a platform for training and preparing young men and women desiring to take up leadership positions in various arms of government’

•Participants at the event

Fed. Govt. to ITF: Create 2m jobs annually •Continued from page 30 for these vacancies.

“There are various sectors that require relevant skills for employment; we are going to train these graduates on specific skills. For instance, we will train some for our power sector, we will train some others for the telecom sector, others for the oil sector, some for agro-allied sector and some specifically for ICT and so on. By the time we do that, our industries will not suffer for lack of relevant skilled workers and Nigerian youth will not remain in the labor market any longer” She also said, “Now, we all know that there is oil deposit and exploration in Southsouth Nigeria; ITF will specifically train youths for that specific work. In Eastern Nigeria we have manufacturing industries, we will train some Nigerian youths needed for that. Some of the factors that militated against some industries in the past had to do with lack of skilled workers. But the current transformation agenda has been designed to have enough skilled workers for all industries in the country.

Dr Chukkas-Onaekon who is a professional skill teacher, was currently elected the Chairman of two critical

I

T is the second largest town in Adamawa State, and also a major commercial centre in the state. Mubi is also a town in agony.

When it fell to Boko Haram insurgents, the invaders killed many of the residents. Several thousands were displaced, many taking refuge anywhere they found it, including the hills while some ran across the border into Cameroon.

From there, some returned to Nigeria through safe routes but finding shelter in other states of the federation.

Some of the displaced are sheltering in Kaduna State. They are bruised but are united by a common desire to live and tell their story and hopefully recover their town from the invaders and rebuild it. They live with relatives and new

‘Through research, ITF has realised that the smaller industries generate more employment than the bigger industries. Hence, the federal government has created Micro, Small and Medium scale Council of Nigeria (MSMES). This council will ensure that these small industries can be encouraged to create jobs for our youths.

In addition to this, a job creation board has also been established and given a mandate to create 3 million jobs annually, while we in ITF train the skilled workers to fit into these industries’ national committees in the field of skill training. She was elected chairperson of World Skills Nigeria. She was also elected chairperson of the National Mirror Technical Committee. The committee, which comprises representatives from the Industrial Training Fund, Chartered Institute of Personnel Management, Standard Organisation of Nigeria, University of Nigeria, Federal Inland Revenue Service and the Society for Human Resources Management, is expected to develop standards in all aspects of human resources practices in line with global standards.

The World Skills Nigeria is a body vested with the responsibility of spear-heading and coordinating Nigeria’s participation in the world skills competition which is scheduled for Sao-Paulo, Brazil in 2014. The global competition will showcase the efforts of the country in skill training; it will also challenge Nigeria to peer review with other countries of the world in areas of man power development.

“ITF has 32 Area Offices across the country which serves as training centers, but that is not enough, more Area offices has to be establish if we

must train 2 million Nigeria annually. Even in Jos the ITF Headquarter, we need to improve on our training facilities.

She said, “The ongoing transformation agenda of the federal government is such that will address all the factors that contributed to the failure of past industries. Factors like multiple taxation, inadequate power supply, lack of skills, security, access to credit facilities, lack of standard etc.

Already, these factors are been addressed through infrastructural development, at least there are signs that power will improve and ITF is training more skill workers and so on. This government is actually learning from the past to create a better future for industrial development.

For instance, “Issue of multiple taxation is scared a lot of industries, so many funny tax are been advanced by all arms of government, including touts. No industry can thrive under heavy and numerous taxation.

Multiple taxation is weighing down the Small and Medium scale industries and will not be allowed in this current dispensation of new industrialization plans, because these small scale industries do more in job creation.”

Displaced Mubi residents relive Boko Haram ordeal

From Abdulgafar Alabelewe, Kaduna

friends.

Thirteen-year-old Salamatu Muhammad is one of those who managed to find their way to Kaduna. For her, life will never be the same again. The horror of jumping over corpses in the bush will forever remain in the subconscious of the Primary Six pupil. Narrating how she and seven of her relatives managed to escape from the town when the Boko Haram insurgents attacked, the little girl wept uncontrollably.

“When they invaded the town, we

‘When we call my father’s number it doesn’t go through. I jumped over many corpses and many sick people in the bush while leaving Mubi. In my life, I have never seen a live snake, but I saw many and took to my heels inside the bush’ all separated,” she said. “I have since parted ways with my father and some of my junior brothers and sisters. My mother took us to the bush from Mubi to Maiha and my brother picked us up in his car to

Yola, Kano and finally Kaduna. We have an extended family, but only seven of us are in Kaduna. Even though she is happy that they es•Continued on page 32

32

THE NATION TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2014

THE NORTH REPORT

‘Sambo not a liability’ A

N Abuja-based civil society organisation, Initiative for Promotion of Civil Obligations and Sustainable Peace has said that Vice President Mohammed Namadi Sambo is not only an asset to the present government, but a true northern leader who deserves everyone’s support.

Addressing a news conference in Abuja, chairman of the organisation, Daniel Nkpanam and Secretary, Danjuma Bello Sarki said recent campaigns against the Vice President were mounted to disparage and discredit him.

While reacting to a recent statement credited to the deposed Emir of Gwandu, Mustapha Jokolo that the Vice President was a political liability to the President, the group said that Sambo and President Jonathan have enjoyed a cordial working relationship unrivalled in the history in the history of democracy in the country.

They said the level of confidence reposed on the Vice President by President Jonathan has seen him undertake series of assignments which has yielded positive results.

They said that “The President and his Vice have been enjoying a cordial working relationship since the inception of their administration which is no doubt second to none

‘The President and his Vice are obviously a perfect and divine combination. The mutual understanding between them is what had translated into the successes of the transformation agenda, thereby putting smiles on the faces of Nigerians’ From Tony Akowe

since the advent of the current democratic dispensation. So, it would be foolhardy for a spent force like Jokolo to attempt to use this as an opportunity to bounce back into reckoning in our nation.

“For Jokolo to claim that the Vice President is a liability to the President and is not fit to run with him

in the 2015 General election has exposed his level of mischief against the Presidency and sheer ignorance of the art of governance or it is an attempt to truncate the sustainable peace and mutual trust existing between Jonathan and Sambo so as to enthrone anarchy and distrust.

“The President and his Vice are obviously a perfect and divine combination. The mutual under-

standing between them is what had translated into the successes of the transformation agenda, thereby putting smiles on the faces of Nigerians.

“It is no longer news that all assignments assigned to the Vice President by the President are being discharged effectively. This is evident in the achievements of the committees he chaired which gave birth to SURE P which today is greatly empowering our teeming youths, providing remarkable infrastructure and drastically reducing unemployment in our nation.

“The power sector reform committee that engineered the successful privatisation of the sector which has since improved power supply to Nigerian homes was also piloted by the Vice President. These are just few amongst many of his impact full contributions to the development of our country.

“Also based on the confidence revised on the Vice President by the President, he recently approved the sum if 220 billion naira under his leadership for small and medium scale enterprises development in addition to the task of creating 2 million jobs in collaboration with t he private sector.

“We want to state categorically that Arch. Namadi Sambo is an as-

•Vice President Sambo set and a leader not NLC to the north, bit to Nigeria as a whole and only second to the President. We call on Nigerians to be mindful of the fact that when you disparage or dishonor the office of the President or the Vice President, you are not only denigrating the holder of the office, but the image of our nation.

“We urge all Nigerians to disregard the deposed Emir,his likes and his sponsors, but continue to rally the required support for the President and his Bice as they strive towards achieving the targets of the transformation agenda”.

Displaced Mubi residents relive Boko Haram ordeal •Continued from page 31 caped unhurt, the fact that she does not know the whereabouts of her father breaks her heart.

She told The Nation: “When we call my father’s number it doesn’t go through. I jumped over many corpses and many sick people in the bush while leaving Mubi. In my life, I have never seen a live snake, but I saw many and took to my heels inside the bush”.

Like Salamatu, 10-year-old Abdulmalik Abdullahi also told a sad tale. He had gone out with his elder brother and were welcomed back home by the shooting of the Boko Haram insurgents.

He told The Nation: “We were on our way coming back home when we heard gunshots. So we started running. We didn’t go home again, so we decide to run for our lives.

We ran to Gumbi; from there we moved to Kaduna. It was like a war movie I used to watch. We ran inbetween bullets to escape to the bush, in fact, I never thought we could survive it”.

The little boy claimed to have seen young men who could not be more than 20 years old among members of Boko Haram who invaded their town, saying “their age didn’t really matter to us, because they were in control of sophisticated weapons.

We had to run. We (me and my sister) trekked to Gumbi. We spent one night in the bush. We walked both day and night, no food to eat. It was when we got to a village that they gave us food to eat. We then left for a place where we boarded a vehicle to Kaduna.”

The two kids are part of the many people that managed to escape from the clutches of the insurgents who invaded Mubi, the second largest town in Adamawa state recently. Many of them spent several days in the bush before help came their way. Many others could not make it out of the town or out of the bush, while the whereabout of many others remain unknown to their families. Many have ques-

tioned the ease with which the insurgents took over Mubi with Nigerian soldiers stationed there abandoning their duty posts and weapons shortly before the arrival of the rag-tag insurgents. Local hunters from the area have mobilised and retaken the town from the insurgents.

Jamila Mohammed, 25, a resident of Kaduna had gone to Mubi to visit her sick father when the insurgents came calling and according to her, she found herself in a Cameroonian village while fleeing from the insurgents.

She told The Nation: “My mother asked me to visit my father who has been down. I was already in Mubi for a week, taking care of my father and he was already recovering. So, on that fateful day, we were walking when we saw people running helter-skelter. It was after that time I received a call from my mother asking me if I’m aware of what is happening in town. She asked me to quickly go back home.

We were on our way when we saw some persons numbering about four of them trying to barricade the road. We were allowed to go through. On getting home, I saw my dad seriously ill with leg pain.

Initially we thought it was a minor sickness. We heard gunshots as they were shooting. Then, my uncle carried us in his car. When the gunshot was much, we had to abandon the car and enter the forest for safety. We spent three days in the dangerous forest. Luckily, after trekking for days, we eventually got a truck used to convey cow that agreed to help us. We were charged N1,000. Fortunately, I was holding a mobile phone. I sold it to pay for our transport fare. The three days inside the forest was like hell. We walked day and night without food or water. At a stage, we got unclean water in a village and they sold it for N20 per bottle. The cow truck conveyed us to a village in Cameroon where we slept. The following day, we were conveyed to

•Displaced Mubi residents

‘We were on our way coming back home when we heard gunshots. So we started running. We didn’t go home again, so we decide to run for our lives. We ran to Gumbi; from there we moved to Kaduna.

It was like a war movie I used to watch. We ran in-between bullets to escape to the bush; in fact, I never thought we would survive it’ another village and later moved to a border between Nigeria and Cameroon. We crossed through a river and later boarded a car that took us to Jakilamba and eventually found ourselves in Yola. So I

called my mother who sent me some money for transport back to Kaduna”.

Jamila had to abandon his father along the way apparently not to compound his health situation and

she is happy that she took that decision saying “he is in a village called Kauyen Kabila. I called him yesterday and I was told he is doing fine”. She claimed that most members of the insurgents are young men. She said “They are young boys. Some of them look like Fulani and the others like Burgo. They were shooting sporadically and killing people”. She expressed appreciation to Pastor Buru who has found it necessary to present relief materials to many of them who were able to find their way to Kaduna, saying that, he was the first to come and visit them and the first to give them any form of relief material. “We are grateful with the gesture by Pastor Yohanna Buru”.

However, while in Kaduna, they have found a saviour in one Pastor Yohanna Baru, coordinator of the Peace Reconciliation and Revival Foundation. Pastor Yohanna Buru became the first person to visit and donate relief materials to them.

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2014

Website: http://www.thenationonlineng.com

Page 33

•Abuja

Day Jonathan shut down Abuja M

ANY thought the declaration was insensitive, coming just after the killing of 47 schoolchildren and three teachers by a teenage suicide bomber on the assembly ground of Government Comprehensive School in Potiskum, Yobe State.

For Abuja residents, however, the day President Goodluck Jonathan told the nation he would seek to retain the presidency for another four years was one they will remember for all the wrong reasons.

Although announcements had been made on air by the police that some of the roads leading to the Eagle Square would be closed, residents did not imagine the effect of the closure would be so devastating.

Abuja metropolis was tense.

Many people could not go to work because they could not access their offices. Those who attempted to get to the office ended up going through so many hurdles and mostly arrived late to work.

Major roads leading to the Eagle Square venue of the event were blocked. Others were diverted.

Since the ban of the 14-seater buses popularly called ‘Araba’ in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and with insufficient buses to convey residents, residents of Kubwa, Zuba, Deidei have learnt to supplement the transportation

From Gbenga Omokhunu and Grace Obike

system with unpainted private taxis.

Since most of the Abuja drivers of these private or unpainted taxis are civil servants and knowing well how civil servants enjoy free holidays and not having to show up at work, most of them did not drive into town that day. They knew well that the Central Area will be shutdown, which resulted in most residents in most areas being stranded especially since most of the el-Rufai buses that where to be used in transporting residents were used to transport Jonathan’s crowd from outside town.

Their was a great lamentation from the frustrated people especially those who were stuck in holdups for almost four hours. For those coming from the Mararaba Nyanya and Kubwa axis, they described the day as one of those that will not be easily forgotten. They described their experiences as hellish, especially since most residents had to walk for miles to arrive their destinations or get transportation.

In spite of the heavy security operatives in town, The Nation observed that the roads were still not accessible.

Although it was a smooth ride for

‘I am not saying that President Goodluck Jonathan should not declare but there was no proper arrangement to avert traffic jam. The road was blocked and everybody was in a hurry to get to their various destinations’ those coming to town from the Airport Road, they also got stuck at the central area where the occasion took place.

Many blamed the Jonathan administration for the inadequate arrangements that led to the heavy traffic jam in Abuja.

Others were of the opinion that Jonathan would have shifted his declaration to mourn the dead Potiskum students and their teachers.

Lanre Oba, a business man who was held up in the traffic for almost three hours while coming to town

from Nyanya, told The Nation that he missed an important interview for a contract bid because of the event.

Oba said: “I am not saying that President Goodluck Jonathan should not declare but there was not proper arrangement to avert traffic jam. The road was blocked and everybody was in a hurry to get to their various destinations.

“Jonathan should even have shifted this declaration to mourn the dead Potiskum students and their teachers. Things should be done at the right time and the feel-

ings of the masses should be considered at all time.”

At the Kubwa 2nd gate, residents had to wait for over two hours on the side of the road and in most times struggle to eventually board vehicles into town, most of the El-rufai buses that drove by where filled to the brim, with more people standing than those seated and these buses most times where already filled up from Zuba and Dei-Dei, by the time these buses arrive Kubwa, it will be too filled up to bother and stop to the pleas of hysterical residents.

Most angry residents were heard saying, “all these suffering because Jonathan is declaring, what will happen then if he wins?”

Another resident who refused to state his name, said, “See how we are suffering in this country just because a human being like me is declaring for office; apart from all this struggle for vehicle, solders have also mounted a check-point around Dutse Junction, just to waste people’s time because they are not checking anything; I feel sorry for this country, honestly.”

Most of the stranded residents spent the time arguing over the country and government in power, while others insisted that the masses have been suffering so much in recent times and something needs to be done urgently.

THE NATION TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2014

34

ABUJA REVIEW

Nyanya bomb blast victim needs N5.3m for surgery

M

ONICA Solomon did not anticipate what befell her in the evening of May 1, 2014. It was a day Nigerian workers joined their counterparts worldwide to celebrate Workers’ Day. But when she left home that evening, it was to go and earn a living at Domo Casino in the highbrow Transcorp Hilton Hotel in Abuja where she works. Unfortunately, she never got there. She was caught in the explosion, which hit the Nyanya Bus Stop for the second time in less than 30 days.

Unlike many other victims, she came out alive with severe burns and she has spent six and a half months on hospital bed. Her nearly seven-month hospitalisation began first at the Wuse General hospital, where she spent two weeks before she was relocated to the University of Abuja Teaching Hospital for referral service. Monica said though her pains had been much, she does not wish that even members of the dreaded Boko Haram, who were responsible for her predicament, to experience the anguish which had been her lot.

Narrating her ordeal amidst pain at the Female Surgical Ward, Monica said only 10 minutes at a bus stop changed her story from a beautiful damsel to a bedridden burns patient.

She said: “On the 1st of May, I was going to work in the evening. I went to Nyanya bus stop to enter a cab to the office. I was not up to 10 minutes there when the bomb blast occurred. I was in front of the car and it was by the grace of God that I came out of the place alive. Since that day, I have been in the hospital”.

Even though the government promised to take care of the medical bill of all the victims of the explosion, the help was not forthcoming. Only Senator Smart Adeyemi (Kogi Central) and a member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Tajudeen Yusuf, have come to her rescue and the Solomon’s family from Ayetoro-Gbedde. And the most outstanding is the hospital management, which is striving with lean purse to stabilise the vic-

tim. Monica has not been able to undergo surgery, which is needed to overcome the pains. She has not been able to sleep for more than two hours daily since the incident happened.

She said: “I spent the first two weeks in Wuse with the hospital providing almost everything for us, including feeding. There was a promise that government was going to take care of our treatment.

After those two weeks, we were brought here. When we came here, it was a battle before we were even given dressing materials for our wounds. Sometimes, when they prescribe drugs for us, we will go to the Pharmacy and they will tell us that they don’t have the drugs.

We will have to use our money to source the drugs outside. We have also been responsible for our own feeding.

Responding to a question, Monica’s husband, Solomon said: “Even when a government delegation came to the hospital from the First Lady, it left out my wife from the list of beneficiaries of assistance. But the visit has added to my burden because immediately all our creditors heard the news on radio and television, they bombarded my residence to prevail on me to refund the soft loans advanced to us. I told them that we have not received any financial assistance from the government, yet some of them disbelieved and insisted on the refund of their loans.”

It could not be immediately ascertained why assistance had not come to Monica. The Chief Medical Director of the University of Abuja Teaching Hospital, Dr. Peter

•Monica at the hospital

‘When a government delegation came to the hospital from the First Lady, it left out my wife from the list of beneficiaries of assistance. But the visit has added to my burden because immediately all our creditors heard the news on radio and television, they bombarded my residence to prevail on me to refund the soft loans advanced to us’ Alabi, said since Monica and the second victim were admitted, the hospital had done its best to take care of them. He said even when doctors were on strike, the hospi-

tal did not send them away, but kept attending to them. Dr. Alabi said although no help has come from anywhere in the last four months when she was admitted, the

hospital had tried to source for drugs to take care of her.

He said: “She is not alone. Two of them were admitted here and we cannot send them away because it is our responsibility as a social sector institution and especially because of the circumstance of their admission. We have spent a lot on them, hoping that one day, help will come our way and from there, we will be able to recover what we have spent. Don’t forget that we don’t manufacture these drugs and other consumables. We have to buy them. We have the expertise to take care of them until they are better. But we need help to do this successfully.”

Solomon can be reached on 08171212616 while donations can be sent to his ECOBANK account no. 2241025676.

Kuje market for upgrade to check fire

T

HE Kuje Main Market will be upgraded with modern facilities to, among other things, check fire incidents.

The modernisation project will be carried out under a build, operate and transfer contract.

The chairman of Kuje Area Council, Hon. Ishaku Shaban Tete signed

From Gbenga Omokhunu

the contract.

The multi-million naira project is a partnership between the Kuje Area Council and Greenhouse International Ventures Limited.

In the Memorandum of Under-

•Members of Good Governance Vanguard (GGV) and Road Transport Employers’ Association of Nigeria (RTEAN) during a rally for President Jonathan in Abuja PHOTO: ABAYOMI FAYESE

standing signed by both parties, Greenhouse International Ventures Limited will rebuild the market and transform it into a market of international repute.

According to a statement signed by the Managing Director of Greenhouse International Ventures Limited, the company is expected to rebuild the market, manage it for twenty five years and later transfer it to the Kuje Area Council.

It reads: “It is expected that the developer will be able to recoup its financial resources put into the project within these twenty five years.

“This contract is a great example of the Federal Government’s public, private Partnership initiative designed to promote the development of infrastructure in the country. When completed, the market

will have facilities such as 532 lock up shops, two warehouse, 500 open shops, 72 Plaza stores, one modern Abattoir, Day care center, Medical Center, places of worship, police post, toilets and conveniences, one bank, fire service post, organized car park, central refuse evacuation point, modern and well secured gates, security cameras and other convenient facilities which will uplift the statues of the market.

“The market under this new arrangement will cater for the needs of different categories of traders thereby giving the market a cosmopolitan profile. Even though the land area housing the market is limited to about 3.2 hectares, it will be designed to have most modern infrastructure that traders will be proud of because of the centrality of its location.”

‘The market under this new arrangement will cater for the needs of different categories of traders thereby giving the market a cosmopolitan profile.

Even though the land area housing the market is limited to about 3.2 hectares, it will be designed to have most modern infrastructure that traders will be proud of because of the centrality of its location’

35

THE NATION TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2014

ABUJA REVIEW

•From right: President Goodluck Jonathan, Vice President Mohammed Namadi Sambo and Brigadier General Ahlaini Chimoko during the Senior Executive Course 36 of the National Institute of Policy and Strategic Studies presentation ceremony at the State House Abuja

•From left: Minister of Communications and Technology, Mrs. Omobola Johnson; Gombe State Governor, Alhaji Ibrahim Dankwambo; Minister for Trade and Investment, Olusegun Aganga, and National President, Association of Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), Garba Ibrahim Gusau, during the National Council on MSMEs at the Presidential villa, Abuja

•From left: Director General, National Agency for the Control of AIDS, Prof John Idoko; Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator Anyim Pius Anyim; Regional Director, West and Central Africa UNAIDS, Dr Mamadou Diallo; Vice President Namadi •FCT Coordinator, National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), Mr. Obaro Ologbo (left); Sambo; Executive Director, Centre for Health, Education, Economic Rehabilitation and SoSenior Officer, NHIS, Mrs. Emelieze Abieyuwa and Assistant Manager, NHIS, Mrs. Anyim cial Security, Hajia Catherine Ogugua and Minister of Women Affairs, Hajia Zainab Maina Sussan Obiageli during the road show to sensitise the public on NHIS plans in Area 1, during the presidential launch of the National Operational Plan for the Elimination of Abuja Mother to Child Transmission of HIV in Nigeria in Abuja.

PHOTOS: AKIN OLADOKUN

•President, Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Omar Abdulwaheed (left); Secretary General, Trade Union Congress, Musa Lawal; Chairman, House Committee on Finance, AbdulMumin Jubrin; Executive Director, Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN), Newman Ordia, and Chairman, Good Homes Developers Company Ltd, Prince Nicholas Ukachukwu, during the House Representatives Committee on Finance Stakeholders meeting on the funding of Housing for Nigeria Workers held at the National Assembly in Abuja

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ORKERS in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja are to benefit from a 40, 000 housing units, FCT Minister Bala Mohammed has said.

The minister has laid the foundation for the development of the 40,000 housing units for workers in Abuja.

The multi-billion-naira housing project, which is in partnership with the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Trade Union Congress (TUC) and some private developers have the capacity of alleviating the suffering encountered by workers in the Federal Capital Territory.

Speaking at the ceremony, Mohammed said that President Goodluck Jonathan personally gave the FCT Administration a matching order to initiate a viable housing scheme that would cater for the needs of the Nigerian worker who

•Member, Board of Trustees, Tertiary Education Trust Fund, Dr Anna Kolawole; Executive Secretary, TETFUND, Prof. Suleiman Bogoro; Chairman Board of Trustees, Dr. Musa Babayo and Minister of Education Malam Ibrahim Shekarau during the inauguration of TETFUND sponsored special higher education textbook in Abuja PHOTOS: ABAYOMI FAYESE

40,000 houses for Abuja workers From Gbenga Omokhunu

are the engine of the country’s economy.

Mohammed remarked that the project will contribute greatly to the reduction of the housing deficit in Nigeria particularly, in the Federal Capital Territory; adding that the project has been designed in a manner that would ensure affordability by the workers.

His words: Ensuring affordability

by Nigerian workers through the provision of wavers on premium for the plots by the FCT Administration”.

According to him, the gigantic sites will also provide avenue for

over 7,000 skilled and unskilled job opportunities to Nigerians, which will go along way to reduce unemployment.

The Minister at the occasion directed the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) to immediately commence arrangement to provide basic infrastructure to the site in line with the instructions of President Jonathan.

The workers housing projects are located on 329.93 hectares of land in parts of Lugbe District and 298.59 hectares in Apo Taphi District of the Federal Capital City.

“The financing of the infrastructure aspect of the project is to be driven under the SURE- P

Progaramme of the Federal Government,” he stressed.

Also speaking at the occasion, the NLC President, Comrade AbdulWaheed Omar thanked the Minister for his foresight and commitment to the workers welfare.

The NLC President described the project as historic saying that no government has ever initiated a viable and sustainable housing project such as this for the Nigerian workers.

He therefore urged workers in the country to take advantage of the scheme to own a house.

The TUC Secretary General, Barrister Musa Lawal who represented the President Comrade Babboi Kaigama also commended the FCT

Minister and the Administration for providing a land in strategic areas for the actualization of the scheme.

The occasion was attended by the FCT Minister of State, Oloye Olajumoke Akinjide, Senator representing FCT, Senator Philip Tanimu Aduda, FCT Permanent Secretary, Engr. John Obinna Chukwu and well as other top management staff of the FCT Administration.

Meanwhile, an agreement was signed between the FCT Administration and Good Homes Development Company Limited at the occasion for development of the houses.

THE NATION TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2014

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ABUJA REVIEW

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T is unclear whether it was for the love of the President or the money they hoped to get. Whatever the case, people came to blows right under the white mobile canopy at the Eagle Square where President Goodluck Jonathan said he would seek reelection.

If not for Providence, your correspondent would have left the venue with red or swollen eyes as blows were freely exchanged over my head where I sat near the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) contingent from Abia State.

To digress a bit, I had to take refuge at the Abia stand to rest my legs before the event started around 11.00a.m., as almost every seat at the venue was already taken up as early as 8.45 am. No area or stand was earmarked for journalists as they were just a part of the crowd.

Trouble first started at the Abia stand where the Abia women in green wrappers, green headgear and green blouses were already seated under the canopy in white plastic mobile chairs.

The party men from Imo State wearing white T-shirts, who were seated on the right side of the Abia delegates, looked for trouble by trying to take the unoccupied seats in the Abia people’s space.

The Abia women tried hard to explain to them that the seats were reserved for their colleagues who had gone to dance round the venue.

But the explanation fell on deaf ears as the Imo men helped themselves to the unoccupied seats.

The Abia women, who reminded me of the Aba women’s riot of 1929, rushed forward with great strength and grabbed the Imo men to prevent them from taking the seats.

The struggle between the two sides, which lasted for almost six minutes, was prevented from degenerating into a free-for-all by the policemen standing by the canopy.

Just as the dust was settling, party men from Cross River State in white T-shirts seated on the left side of the Abia women also started another commotion with another group of Abia men and women in orangecoloured T-shirts seated on their left side.

The Abia men tried to take some unoccupied seats in the Cross Rivers people’s space and that resulted in exchange of blows between two men from the two sides. It again took the intervention of the policemen and civil defence officers around to bring sanity to the area.

The next commotion took place in the front of the pavilion where the Abia women and the Cross Rivers party men were seated. A Northerner carrying some PDP booklets was rushed by some people in attempt to get a copy of the booklet.

Fisticuffs at Jonathan’s declaration From the Villa

The man had no choice than to throw the booklets on the floor to save his head.

Another bigger commotion ensued again at the stand hosting the Abia women in green wrapper, green headgear, and green blouse attire.

When they returned from dancing round the venue, they found that their seats, which they kept in the custody of some boys have been taken by another Abia group.

Some of the women first scrambled among themselves for the remaining few empty seats, while others had to face the intruders.

After much shouting in Igbo language, the intruders had to leave the area for the women in green attire.

Few minutes after the group settled down, another commotion started when it was time to share bottled water. They left their seats, pushing one another to get the water. Not all of them were lucky as they returned to their seats empty-handed.

When it was the turn of the Cross Rivers state group sitting by the Abia women to dance round the venue, they folded all their chairs together in order to secure them. In the process, open space was created in their area.

Before they returned back, some

By Augustine Ehikioya Abia state group have occupied the space by bringing seats from other areas to the open space. This caused another commotion when the Cross Rivers people returned from dancing round the venue.

An Abia man in orange T-shirt sharing bottled water to his people was rushed by some Cross River state neighbours. This caused another exchange of blows Similar scenerio played out when minerals like Coke, Sprite, Fanta and food were shared in many areas under the white giant mobile canopy spanning over 100 meters.

The people scrambled for anything in sight even before the programme commenced as they see it as part of the national cake.

But there was much decorum at the permanent structures offering shelter and immovable seats from the left and right sides of the state box.

Another occasion when the true calibre of some of the people who masqueraded as party supporters was exposed was just before the end of the declaration ceremony.

Just as the national anthem was been rendered to close the ceremony, the party supporters started to

scramble for almost everything.

They tore down and took away all the green, red and white coloured umbrellas used to decorate the podium.

Most part of the red rug placed on the floor from the state box to the podium, which is about 50 meters, were fought for and taken away by the supporters.

The rug with the seal of the president was not spared as the PDP ‘supporters’ made away with it.

The red and white silk fabrics used for the decoration of the podium arena were also not spared.

The supporters brought out razor to cut a sizeable portion for themselves.

Katsina State governor, Ibrahim Shema, who did not get into the bus that brought him and other governors in the President’s convoy on time, was momentarily held hostage by the party ‘supporters’ along with the remaining dignitaries in the state box. The supporters rushed in as soon as the president and the security details left the venue.

But it could not be ascertained if Shema and others parted with any belongings to secure their freedom.

Aspirant says corruption is Nigeria’s biggest challenge

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PRESIDENTIAL aspirant has reminded Nigerians what they have always known: a country so endowed with many natural resources is crippled by corruption and criminality.

Speaking to reporters, Williams Ad’ojo Jedidiah explained that the level of corruption in the country has pushed him into deciding to run for the highest office in the land.

Speaking further, the Kogi Stateborn chemical engineer noted that if given the opportunity to lead this country, he would tackle corruption within the first two years of his presidency.

He however noted that he is ready to lay down his life for Nigeria and ready to forfeit all the salaries and entitlement meant for the office of the president up until his administration tackles corruptions.

From Gbenga Omokhunu

While revealing his abilities and qualifications, Ad’ojo Jedidiah noted that he has been a researcher in leadership, management, governance and human nature for the past 13 years and urged any top-level expert in leadership, management and public administration to engage him in order to prove his worth.

Speaking further on the insecurity situation in the country, Ad’ojo Jedidiah said explained with the new internal security system also known as “watching eyes security system”; which is developed ýlocally and by Nigerians, the issues of crime, corruption and insecurity would be a thing of the past if only there is political will to handle that.

•Traffic gridlock on Kubwa Expressway, Abuja following increased security checks

THE NATION TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2014

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LAW & SOCIETY To further strengthen the capacity of the Judiciary to respond to the increasing demand for openness in the conduct of government’s businesses, requiring for public institutions to allow easy access to information on their activities, the Judiciary held a training for senior court staff on how to effectively deploy the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) and Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in aiding efficiency and accountability in processes. ERIC IKHILAE reports from Abuja.

CJN, judicial institute seek accountability

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N every democracy, public institutions are required to facilitate enhanced pub lic access to information about their activities, with a view to ensuring effective monitoring of government’s activities to promote accountability and transparency in the conduct of public affairs.

The Judiciary, as public institution, is not exempted from this requirement, and is therefore required to shed its conservative and secretive nature to enable it retain the much desired public confidence, in the face of growing consciousness and increasing demand for information.

The realization of the requirement for urgent change in the conduct of its affairs informed a recent workshop in Abuja for senior court workers in the country. The workshop, with the theme: “Promoting transparency and integrity in the Judiciary,” was put together by the National Judicial Institute (NJI), with support from the Open Society Foundation (OSF), A and E Law Partnership and the United Kingdom’s Department of International development (DFID). A training was held for judges between May 5 and 9.

Speakers included the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Aloma Mukhtar, the Administrator of the NJI, Justice Roseline Bozimo (retired), Justice Tijani Abubakar of the Court of Appeal, Justice Emmanuel Nnamani of the Customary Court of Appeal, Enugu, the Director General of the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies (NIALS), Professor Deji Adekunle, Justice Benedict Bakwph Kanyip of the National Industrial Court (NIC) and Deputy Chief Registrar, the Federal High Court, Emmanuel Gakko.

They examined how court workers could effectively deploy the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) and Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in meeting the growing demand for openness, accountability and transparency in the conduct of government affairs. Speakers stressed the need for court officials to change their conduct and approach to work in view of the drift towards the twin concepts of open society and participatory governance.

Justice Mukhtar observed that by virtue of its provisions, the FOIA, if properly implemented, will go a long way in “enthroning probity, accountability and transparency in the Judiciary as a public institu-

tion. The legislation is a total reflection of the social reconstruction of human reality. It opens up the Judiciary fpr reasoned and intelligent enquiries. It opens a new vista of public acknowledgement, commendation or condemnation.”

The CJN urged participants to strive “to maintain high standard of integrity, incorruptibility, fairness and transparency in the discharge of your duties.” She added that as accounting officers of the courts, they should ensure high level of accountability in the handling of contracts, procurement, resource and time management, among others.

Justice Bozimo explained the training was intended to ensure court workers are driven always by the realization that transparency in court operations was cardinal to ensuring a sustained public confidence in the judiciary.

She said the decision to examine the implications of FOIA and ICT in court operations was informed by the realization that a proper understanding and implementation of the Act “will engender transparency in the Judiciary and entrench accountability and integrity.”

Justice Bozimo argued that in view of the general deployment of ICT for almost every human activity, court administrators could not afford not to embrace ICT in their operations.

In his paper titled: “The FOIA 2011 as a veritable instrument for entrenching best ethical practices among court employees,” Justice Abukakar argued that in view of the public perception that the nation’ Judiciary was corruption driven, court workers cannot afford continue the act pretend as if nobody is watching.

He stressed the importance of the FOIA in the eradication of the various inefficiencies in the judicial system in view of the huge role a functional and effective Judiciary plays in ensuring a prosperous and vibrant democracy.

Justice Anukbakar contended that an effective judiciary could only be realized where transparency and ethical practices among operators of the system are strengthened where agencies mandated to discipline erring judicial officers and other court staff are transparent and fearless in executing their mandates.

“In exercising the power of judicial review (conferred on the court under Section 20 of the FOIA) and protecting the integrity and transparency of the Judiciary, the court, as an

•Justice Mukhtar arbiter, is expected to be independent, assertive and courageous enough to call a spaded a spade. It is my honest opinion that the way is to do what is right and proper at all times without bending the rules,” Justice Abubakar said.

Justice Nnamani, who took participants through the various provisions of the FOIA and their responsibilities under the law, argued that judicial administrators must familiarize themselves with the Act. He noted that “a good understanding of the Act enables them to resolve likely dilemmas regarding when to release or withhold information and how to do so.”

Prof Adekunle identified the various challenges the impeded the effective implementation of the FOIA, some of which he said, included the general lack of funding for FOI activities in government agencies, general apathy on the part of those intended to implement the Act in view of the high level of ignorance about the provisions of the Act and the lack of proper record keeping practices in government agencies that hamper access to information.

“There is need for intense and continuous sensitization of government officials about the Act. Unless and until government takes concrete steps towards good records management, the success of the FOIA will be in great jeopardy,” Prof Adekunle said.

Justice Kanyip, who examined the current issues in personnel and corporate information management under the FOIA, noted that the task for all information managers in public institutions is how to effectively marry the growing demand for information with the risk of not opening themselves to falling foul of not only the law, but the dictates of their code of conduct.

•Prof. Adekunle This he said, could only be effectively dealt with where public institutions set up FOIA Units, manned by staff, who are well schooled in the provisions of the Act, to know what information to release and withhold.

“The dictates of democracy demand that governance must transit from secrecy to openness and hence, accountability must be paramount. The Judiciary is not an exception.

In our own way, the Judiciary must key in and promote accountability in governance, not just as arbiters when asked to do, but must be seen as a good example of public institution that upholds the law,” he said.

Gakko, in his paper: “The conduct and attitude of court employees: The need for a paradigm shift,” stressed the need for court workers to realise that the Judiciary is not immune to the various changes taking place around it. He noted that it requires the conviction of the leadership to drive such changes in the Judiciary.

“WE are now in the jet age and anyone, who plays with technological development, would soon become obsolete. Some courts in Nigeria are already operating e-filing. We must be part of this drive and where we fail as court managers, history would judge us.

We must lead the younger and energetic staff in this drive,” Gakko said.

To the participants, which included Chief Registrars, Secretaries of Judicial Service Committees/Commissions, Directors of Sharia, Customary and Area Courts and Courts’ Inspectors on Information and Telecommunication Technology, frequent exposure to such training opportunity would go a long way in ensuring the change required to secure a vibrant and effective Judiciary in the country.

Couple sues NDLEA for N50m over alleged rights violation

By Joseph Jibueze

•Federal High Court Chief Judge, Justice Ibrahim Auta

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COUPLE, Mr Mathias and Fidelia Muomah, have urged the Federal High Court in Lagos to re-list their N50million suit against the National Drug

Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for alleged rights violation.

Justice Okon Abang struck out the case on April 16 “for want of diligent prosecution” because the plaintiffs’ lawyer, Emeka Opara, was not present during a hearing.

Opara said he was absent that day because he was sick, and that he sent his junior to inform the court of his ill-health.

He prayed that the case be re-listed so that it will be heard on merit, adding that previous adjournments were at the respondents’ instance.

The Commander, NDLEA Joint Task Force, Lagos, Mr Sunday Zirangey, is the second respondent.

The plaintiffs are claiming that NDLEA officials barged into their bedroom on December 6, 2012 about 5.30am and accosted Mrs Muomah while naked, in flagrant violation of their rights to the dignity of their persons.

The couple is seeking a declaration that her arrest and confiscation of their vehicles on the suspicion that her younger brother, Nonso Okeke, is a drug dealer violates the 1999 Constitution and various articles of the African Charter on Human and Peoples Rights.

They sought an order mandating NDLEA to tender a public apology to them to be published in a national newspaper, as well as an injunction restraining the agency from further detaining them or their vehicles.

According to the plaintiffs, NDLEA claimed Okeke used Mouomah’s house to register a Toyota Corolla, which was used to convey someone to a hotel in Victoria Island where a meeting was held to discuss the supply of a drug called Ephedrine, a substance similar to cocaine.

It was allegedly agreed at the meeting, which had NDLEA informants in attendance, that 25kg of Ephedrine and production machines would be supplied and that proceeds would be shared.

In a bid to track down the suspects, the plaintiffs said NDLEA officials arrested Mrs Mouma, insisting that the couple must produce Okeke and the Toyota Corrolla, and ordered the wife to be reporting to the agency’s office every Wednesday.

“Nonso Okeke whom the respondents claim they are looking for does not live in my house and I do not know where he is at

the moment. He is a 39-year-old man and is not under my family’s control,” Mr Muomah said in a supporting affidavit.

The couple said NDLEA operatives did not only embarrass the woman, but the presence of several officials in their red uniforms in the premises led to “terrible embarrassment” for the family.

However, NDLEA said its officers did not “barge” into the couple’s room, did not meet her naked, and did not unduly detain her.

Rather, it said its officers met Mr Muomah at the door and conducted themselves professionally during the search.

“The respondents did not at anytime threaten to seize the applicants’ vehicles and did not label the applicants’ family ‘a drug family’ and never directed the second applicant to be reporting to NDLEA office every Wednesday.

“The applicants knew where Mr Nonso Okeke is and are harbouring him contrary to the provisions of the NDLEA Act. “Neither the respondents nor its officers saw the nakedness of the second applicant as was alleged. It was the first applicant that led them into his room,” NDLEA said.

Justice Abang adjourned till January 30 next year for ruling on the application to re-list the suit.

THE NATION TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2014

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NATIONAL BAR At the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State

•From left: Ms Tosin Bashorun, Lagos State Attorney-General Ade Ipaye and Mr L. Amobi.

•Former President (NBA), OCJ Okocha (SAN) (left) and NBA President, Alegh (SAN).

•From left: Prince Okonta, Gani Ajape and Chairman Eastern Bar Forum, Ogbonna O. Igwenyi.

•Chief Niyi Akintola (SAN) (left) and Jibrin S. Okutepa (SAN).

FRSC liable to contempt if it imposes fines, says lawyer

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LAGOS lawyer, Mr Tope Alabi, has said officials of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) are liable for contempt of court if they impose fines on erring motorists.

The Federal High Court in Lagos had nullified FRSC’s powers to impose fines.

It held that FRSC’s function “should not go beyond issuance of mere notices of offence.”

Delivering verdict on a suit filed by Alabi, Justice James Tsoho held that FRSC cannot turn itself into a court of law by punishing those who commit traffic offences.

The corps reacted to the judgment by saying it has the right to impose fines because the Court of Appeal in another judgment held that the FRSC has statutory and constitutional powers to arrest and detain vehicles of road traffic violators, as well as regulate and set deadline for the usage and renewal of motor vehicle licenses, number plates and driver licenses.

Alabi, in a statement, said: “The reaction of the FRSC to the judgment of 26 September 2014 delivered by Justice Tsoho is misconceived. All cases it relied upon are distinguishable from my case. The facts and the circumstances are different.

“In the first place, the fine they imposed on me is higher than what their Act prescribes.

By Joseph Jibueze

Secondly, Section 10(7) of the Act directs FRSC to charge any offender to court. This is our right to be heard.

“They imposed the fine without listening to me contrary to fair hearing. They held onto my licence for good six months without charging me to court despite repeated visit to their office and various letters that followed.

“On whether FRSC Act 2007 or Nigerian Roads Traffic Regulation (NRTR 2012) are existing laws and valid, they should wait for my case in Suit No. FHC/CS/L/1233/2013 where I have put in place machinery to demolish the entire Act and Regulation.

“If FRSC intends to go on appeal as if appeal would cage Nigerians in bondage, we would meet them there.

“FRSC is a body which imposes fine without hearing out the supposed offenders. Also, most of the cases they celebrated are on number plates and driver’s licences.

“Anybody arrested and mandated to pay a fine can seek the leave of the court to commence contempt proceedings against the FRSC officers concerned because the judgment in my case is valid and subsisting,” Alabi said.

•Former Chairman NBA, Nnewi branch, O.J. Okeke and Secretary NBA Onitsha branch, Steve Ononye.

•From left: Vice Chairman NBA Section on Business Law (SBL), Olu Akpata, NBA Executive Director of Administration Osita Okoro and Nathaniel Adegoke.

SBL holds roundtable

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HE Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Section on Business (SBL) will hold a roundtable on hospitality on December 2 at the Moorhouse, Ikoyi, Lagos, by 8am.

A statement from the section said the discussion will dwell on the relevance of the hospitality industry to the growth and development of the economy.

“This is because the industry possesses unique opportunities for wealth and job creation as well as poverty alleviation. Over the years, the hospitality industry, in spite of its huge growth and potentials, has not been tapped maximally to contribute to Nigeria’s GDP. “It is, in view of the foregoing, that the Travel Tourism and Hospitality Committee

of the NBA-Section on Business Law is organizing a one-day hospitality roundtable.”

It has the theme: Opportunities and threats in the hospitality industry in Nigeria.

“The roundtable, amongst others, will seek to analyse the strengths, opportunities and threats in the hospitality industry from the perspective of practitioners and government, drawn from the subsectors of the industry, including hotel operators and managers, fast food businesses, culinary skills and hospitality and tourism trainers, tourism promoters, and lawyers.”

Resource persons included: Dr. Ikenna Nwosu, Mrs. Bose Ayeni, Ms. Tiyan Alile, Mr. Bruce Prins and Chairman SBL Committee on Travels and Tourism, Mr. Okey Egbuchu

•From left: Chairman Midwest Bar Forum, Chief Ferdinand Orbi (SAN), Second Vice-President NBA, Taiwo O. Taiwo and former Ekiti State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice Wale Fapohunda.

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THE NATION TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2014

LEGAL OPINION How to achieve quicker justice delivery is theme of the seventh annual business luncheon by the firm of SPA Ajibade & Co, reports JOSEPH JIBUEZE.

Way out of judicial delays H

OW can delays in civil jus tice delivery be reduced?

This is a question that has begged for answers for years.

When Justice Olusola Williams was appointed a judge of the Lagos State High Court in 2001, she was assigned a 36-year-old that was still pending in court.

She was one of the speakers at the at the seventh annual business luncheon by the law firm of SPA Ajibade & Co in Lagos, with the theme: The future of Legal Practice in Nigeria: Eliminating delays in Civil Justice delivery.

A Supreme Court Justice, Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, who chaired the event, and the guest speaker, a former Foreign Affairs Minister, Mr Odein Ajugomobia (SAN) listed ways to eliminate delays in justice delivery.

Kekere-Ekun said in addition to more use of information technology and computerisation of court processes, there is the need for a new attitude.

She said: “While the full computerisation of the court system nationwide will provide some much needed succour…how do the improvements in case management at the trial courts translate to the appellate courts?

“I am of the firm view that in order to achieve significant improvement in civil justice delivery, there needs to be a major attitudinal change, which must start with members of the Bar who are the litigants’ first point of contact in the litigation process.

“No matter how many judges are appointed or how many times the civil procedure rules are amended, the situation will remain the same unless we change our mindset,” she said.

Besides, Justice Kekere-Ekun believes the Supreme Court’s jurisdiction should be restricted to prevent situations where interlocutory appeals takes years to determine while the main suit is pending at the lower courts.

“I strongly believe that there is an urgent need for constitutional amendment to limit the jurisdiction of the Supreme Court in certain respects.

“For instance, interlocutory decisions, and cases where there are concurrent findings of fact by the two lower courts and there is no dispute as to the law, should terminate at the Court of Appeal. Decisions in governorship elections should also terminate at the Court of Appeal,” she said.

Justice Kekere-Ekun urged the

Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) to enforce the Bar’s ethics and “provide the required leadership.”

“Where a client has a bad case, it is unethical to institute an action in court merely to frustrate his opponents and delay the fulfilment of an obligation,” she said.

Ajumogobia identified preliminary objections, frivolous arguments, unnecessary adjournments, lack of adherence to time limits and poor service of court processes on parties as some causes of delays.

Others, he said, are incessant amendment of court documents in the course of trial, poor case management by judges, abuse of the right of appeal and poor use of punitive cost against lawyers who cause deliberate delays.

According to Ajumogobia, some clients literally pay lawyers to delay proceedings, which is against the profession’s ethics.

“Delay serves the defendant well when he has no defence or simply needs to buy time to answer a complaint and is therefore only interested in putting off the anticipated final decision by the court for as long as possible,” he said.

He said while delays in civil justice cannot be completely eliminated, it can be reduced in the profession’s common interest. “I am suggesting that this depends much more on us at the Bar than it does on our colleagues on the Bench who have shed their partisanship and can only decide the cases and controversies that we place before them.

“As long as we choose (and it is always a conscious choice by counsel) to deliberately exploit the existence of constitutional lapses or the inevitable and necessary flexibility of procedural rules, curbing delay in civil justice will remain an illusion,” Ajumogobia said.

Justice Williams, who successfully disposed of the 36-year-old case, said the Bar has a big role to play in achieving quicker justice delivery. She added that the problem will remain “as long as we continue to see delay as a tool. It all has to do with our attitude.”

She advocated adequate training for court staff, continuous training for judges, intensive training for new judges, and the need to boost the morale of judicial officers.

She said situations where judges are exposed to assault will not held the cause of justice. “I was assaulted in Ekiti State. If one judge is assaulted, then every judge has

been assaulted. But where was the Bar when all of this happened? We get the legal system we deserve,” she asked.

According to her, delay is costly and clogs the wheel of progress. Even lawyers who depose to false affidavits must be panalised. “Bad practice should be criminalised,” she said.

Lagos Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice Ade Ipaye urged judges to adopt a nononsense approach to case management by not granting frivolous applications.

He urged the Attorney-General of the Federation, Mohammed Adoke (SAN) to set up a commission to resolve the issue of jurisdiction and at what point it should be raised.

Whatever recommendations are reached and agreed on, he said, should be made part of the Constitution.

Mr Ademola Akinrele (SAN) said arbitration matters should terminate at the High Court where ADR is used. The issue of jurisdiction, he said, should be taken with the main case to avoid delays. Judges should learn to ignore irrelevances and move on with cases.

Also, the requirements for award of SAN rank which requires a certain number of appearances at the appellates courts should be jettisoned, as it encourages lawyers to pursue appeals even when frivolous.

Judges, he said, should be appointed from diverse areas of law, such as from the academia, among others, adding that diligent counsel and a proactive bench would help speed up justice delivery.

The organiser, Dr Babatunde Ajibade (SAN), said it will take everyone pulling in the same direction if delays are to be reduced.

On why luncheon was organised, he said: “It’s our little way of putting something back into the profession. We are passionate and feel very strongly about it. We think we should improve the environment in which legal business is conducted.”

Other speakers included Justice Samuel Candide-Johnson, who represented Chief Judge of Lagos, Justice Funmilayo Atilade; Mrs Olabisi Soyebo (SAN), former dean, faculty of law, University of Lagos Prof Oyelowo Oyewo; Mr Zik Obi II, a senior lecturer at the Nigerian Law School Mr Nelson Ogbuanya, among others.

•From left: Ajumogobia, Akinrele, Justice Williams, Justice Kekere-Ekun, Mrs Soyebo and Ajibade at the event.

PHOTO: NNEKA NWANERI

LAW AND PUBLIC POWER

with gabriel AMALU email:gabrielamalu1@yahoo.com For comments: 08033054939 (sms only)

Dame Jonathan as party firefighter

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HESE are interesting times, for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Move over, Chief Tony Anenih, Chairman, Board of Trust ees, the PDP, from your exalted position as Mr. Fix-it, of the usual viruses, that spew from the divergent parts of that self acclaimed biggest party in Africa. Move in, the first lady, Mama Peace, Her Excellency, Dame (Dr.) Patience Jonathan, recently retired Permanent Secretary, Bayelsa state. With her motherly touch, Dame Jonathan, the most politically active first lady, in the checkered history of our dear country, is moving around the states, smothering the many fires, over who gets what, that is threatening to consume the PDP, and torpedo our democracy.

But for her physical presence, who would have given the soft spoken first lady, any chance of success, as a multi-talented advocate of a peculiar equitable standard, for sharing of political offices, amongst the thousands of aspirants on the platform of that behemoth, the PDP. To douse the crisis across the states, which critics call chop-make-I-chop, that is gnawing at the party’s foundation in Oyo, Enugu, Bayelsa, Adamawa, Benue, Rivers, Cross River, Akwa Ibom, Ogun, you name it, Mama Peace, in her mild mannered feminine way, is moving around with her gaily long train, one place at a time, settling the ill-mannered men, who are finding it difficult, to agree on how to share the spoils, from a conquered Nigeria.

The Enugu state détente is particularly of interest, with the infusion of spiritualism, into the combustible ogre. Her Excellency, the first Lady, recently, was the special guest of honour, at the harvest and bazaar thanksgiving of the Adoration Ministry, presided over by Rev. Fr. Ejike Mbaka, the spiritual enfant terrible, who stared down the dreaded former Governor of Enugu state, Dr. Chimaroke Nnamani, during his reign. Chaperoned, or do I rather say, escorted, by no less a personality, than His Excellency, the Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu, the first lady reportedly read the first reading at the church service, while the deputy senate president, read the second.

In his sermon, I gathered that the fearless Fr. Mbaka, prayed for the success of the political ambition of Senator Ekweremadu, arguing that with his success as a faithful family man, married to one wife, despite many years of political exposure, he deserves success in his senatorial ambition, more than any other person. With thousands of followers, not to talk of his famed spirituality, Father Mbaka’s endorsement of Ekweremadu, has its significance. Indeed it appears that the senator whose reelection is under threat, from Governor Sullivan Chime, has resorted to spiritual pilgrimages, following the alleged ban placed on traditional rulers by the state government, from organizing ceremonies, were the likes of Ekweremadu could gain one bogus title or another, to foster their political interests.

From the clips shown on television, of the first lady’s visit to the Adoration Ministry, the Governor and senatorial contender did not attend the bazaar ceremony. Despite efforts, I have not been able to confirm, whether Governor Chime was banned from the ceremony, because he has married more than once, the last and now former-wife, as Governor; or whether it was a political decision, sanctioned by the first lady, to show who has her support, among the two major senatorial contenders. Luckily for Ekweremadu, the state’s alleged stern instruction to the traditional rulers, not to host his likes, did not extend to the churches, and the Senator seems to have cashed in on that.

There is also the report in the media, that Ekweremadu outsmarted the Governor, during the election of delegates for the party’s congress, where the candidates for the 2015 election will be elected. If the report is correct, there appears to be a revolt within the Ebeano family oligarchy. As one follower of this column said to me, it appears that my claims before the delegates’ congress, that the Governor has unchallenged supreme power in the Ebeano family, may have spurred a major revolt within the party ranks. As many have argued, Ekweremadu may be more useful to the state, if he returns as a deputy senate president, should the PDP win the presidency, but I doubt if when the chips are down, Ekweremadu can really defeat the reigning godfather of the Ebeano family, Governor Sullivan Chime.

But the news out there, is that peace have been made between the Governor and the Deputy Senate President, with the Governor conceding his senatorial ambition to Ekweremadu, while the latter, will in turn support the gubernatorial preference of Governor Chime, Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi. Whether it is that peace arrangement, that, Her Excellency, Mama Peace, the first lady, went to consummate, or it is another peaceful settlement that she went to wrought all by herself, the days ahead will reveal. What ever be the case, His Excellency, Governor Chime, has more or less relocated to Abuja, in his hot pursuit of both his senatorial ambition and that of his many god sons and daughters.

The first lady has also since departed to other troubled sports, in the rancorous match of His Excellency, President Goodluck Jonathan, to a landslide victory, in 2015 elections. In aid of the war efforts, which the 2015 elections is turning into, the Boko Haram insurgents, are also excising for their dubious Caliphate, parts of the stiff necked opponents of Mr. President, aggregated mostly in the north east. And who knows, by the time the election comes up in 2015, much of the major states opposing the reelection of the President, may technically no longer be part of Nigeria, and so not part of the electorate, while the remaining part will Insha Allah, resoundingly reelect Mr. President, for another term; even if for security reasons, he may have to shift down south, the capital of the country.

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THE NATION TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2014

LAW REPORT

Conviction possible where circumstantial evidence is conclusive IN THE COURT OF APPEAL SOKOTO JUDICIAL DIVISION HOLDEN AT SOKOTO ON FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2014 BEFORE THEIR LORDSHIPS PAUL A. GALINJE, J.C.A. AHMAD O. BELGORE, J.C.A. TUNDE O. AWOTOYE, J.C.A. CA/S/33C/2014 (2014) LPELR-23823(CA) BETWEEN MUHAMMAD ALIYU & OR ……..………..……………….………..….… Appellants And THE STATE ……..…..….………….……….…………………………….... Respondent LEAD JUDGMENT DELIVERED BY TUNDE O. AWOTOYE, J.C.A.

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HIS is an appeal against the judgment of Kebbi State High Court of Justice Birnin Kebbi Division wherein the appellants were found guilty, convicted and sentenced to death by hanging for the offences of criminal conspiracy contrary to Section 97 of the Penal Code, Armed Robbery contrary to Section 1(2) (a) & (b) of the Robbery and Fire Arms (Special Provision) Act. The charge was read to the accused persons.

Each of the accused persons denied any involvement in the crime and pleaded not guilty to each of the counts. Their respective statements were tendered and admitted in open court. The first accused in his statement, raised the defence of alibi. After hearing the parties and their respective witnesses, the learned trial Judge found the accused persons guilty. Dissatisfied with the judgment of the trial court, the first and third accused persons at the trial court filed Notice of Appeal containing two grounds of appeal. The appellant’s counsel formulated two issues for the determination of the appeal. They are: “1. Whether from the totality of the evidence adduced at the lower court the respondent proved the offences of criminal conspiracy, armed robbery and culpable homicide punishable with death contrary to Sections 97 of the Penal Code, Section 1 (2) (a & b) of the Robbery and Firearms (Special Provision) Act and Section 221 (a) of the Penal Code beyond reasonable doubt against the appellants.

2. Whether from the fact and circumstances of this case the defence of Alibi availed the first appellant.”

The respondent and the court adopted the two issues as formulated by the appellant for the determination of the appeal.

On issue No.1, Learned appellant’s counsel submitted that the respondent failed to prove the guilt of the accused persons beyond reasonable doubt. He referred to Section 135 (1) & (2) of the Evidence Act. He submitted further that on criminal conspiracy the respondent must show credible evidence of the meeting of the minds of the conspirators to perpetrate an unlawful act or unlawful act by an unlawful means.

Learned appellants’counsel argued that none of the witnesses or the evidence by the prosecution fixed the appellants to the scene of the crimes they were convicted of. He referred to the evidence of the prosecution and submitted that the accused persons were not seen or arrested at the scene of the incident. Learned counsel ar-

That’s strange!

gued that the evidence of PW3 that Salihu Buzu (the deceased) called to inform her that he saw the appellants and the other convicts in his vicinity is hearsay. He submitted that hearsay evidence was not admissible in law. He submitted further that the statement of the deceased before he was found dead did not amount to dying declaration. Appellant’s counsel argued further that the trial court based its conclusion on speculation, imagination and suspicion, adding that suspicion no matter how strong could not occasion criminal responsibility.

Learned counsel for the respondent submitted that the prosecution at the trial court established the ingredients of the offence of armed robbery. It was submitted that the circumstances of the commission of the offence were positive direct and unequivocal and irresistibly led to the inference that it was the accused persons that committed the offences.

He cited SHAZALI V STATE (1988) 12 SC (Pt 11) 58; (1988) LPELR-3040(SC).

On Issue No.2, it was submitted for the appellant that the police did not investigate the defence of alibi raised by the first appellant.

Learned counsel submitted that failure to investigate the defence of alibi raised by the first appellant was fatal to the prosecution case.

He added that it was not the duty of the accused to call witnesses to prove his whereabouts as expressed by the trial court.

Learned respondent’s counsel submitted that the position of the law regarding alibi raised by an accused was that if the prosecution could lead strong and positive evidence which fixed the accused person which evidence the court accepted, the defence of alibi would collapse.

He relied on the case of SUNDAY V STATE (2010) 6 NCC 78; (2010) LPELR-1470(SC). He pointed out that the accused persons were very well known to the prosecution witnesses before the commission of the offences. He finally urged the court to dismiss the appeal as lacking in merit and affirm the conviction and sentence passed by the trial court.

In determining this appeal, the court pointed out that some facts are clear in this appeal.

1. The victim of the crime, Salihu Buzu, a watchman to the filling station under construction was killed on February 21,2012 at about 4.00am at Libba village.

2. None of the prosecution witnesses witnessed the crime.

3. The accused persons denied any involve-

LEGAL JOKES

A LAWYER named Mr Strange died, and his friend asked the tombstone maker to inscribe on it: “Here lies Strange, an honest man, and a lawyer.”

The inscriber insisted that such an inscription would be confusing, for passersby would tend to think that three men were buried under the stone.

However, he suggested an alternative: He would inscribe: “Here lies a man who was both honest and a lawyer.”

That way, whenever anyone walked by the tombstone and read it, they would be certain to remark: “That’s Strange!”

Simple logic Two attorneys went into a diner and ordered two drinks. Then they produced sandwiches from their briefcases and started to eat. The owner became quite concerned and marched over and told them: “You can’t eat your own sandwiches in here!”

The attorneys looked at each other, shrugged their shoulders and then exchanged sandwiches.

Tricking the lawyer A lawyer decides to have a face-lift for his

birthday. He spends $5,000 and feels really good about the results. On his way home, he stops at a newsstand and buys a paper.

Before leaving, he says to the sales clerk: “I hope you don’t mind me asking, but how old do you think I am?”

“About 35,” was the reply. “I’m actually 47,” the man says, feeling really happy.

After that, he goes into McDonalds for lunch and asks the clerk the same question.

The reply is: “Oh, you look about 29”. “I am actually 47,” says the lawyer.

Later, while standing at a bus stop, he asks an old woman the same question.

She replies: “I am 85 years old, and my eyesight is going. But when I was young, there was a sure way of telling a man’s age. If I put my hand down your pants and play with your balls for 10 minutes, I will be able to tell you your exact age.”

As there was no one around, the man thinks: What the hell, and lets her slip her hand down his pants.

Ten minutes later, the old lady says: “Okay, it’s done. You are 47.”

Stunned, the man says: “That was brilliant.

How did you do that?”

The old lady replies: “I was behind you at McDonalds!”

•Court of Appeal President, Justice Zainab Bulkachuwa ment in the crime and did not make confes- cused person’s guilt. See NWEKE V THE STATE [2001] 4NWLR (PT 704) 588; (2001) sional statement.

4. The trial court resolved the oath against LPELR-2119(SC). The court noted further that oath of witnesses who gave evidence before it was the first appellant that was seen with it. The learned trial judge found the evidence the man whose body was seen with that of adduced by the prosecution as cogent and Buzu (the fourth accused was with them), it was the first appellant who was seen around compelling.

PW1 Cpl Isuwa Hamidu attached to 4.00 am on February 21,2013, shortly after the Maiyama Division was on duty on April incident with his car parked on the road lead21,2012 when a case of conspiracy, armed rob- ing to the locus in quo. All those who saw him bery and culpable homicide was reported. He were apprehensive because of his reputation. joined a team of policemen to the scene of The court held that it will not disturb the findincidence and met the deceased lying dead in ing of the the trial Judge who saw and heard an uncompleted petrol station. He noticed gun the witnesses.

On the defence of alibi, the court held that if shot wounds on his chest. Not more than five meters away, he found another dead body. the prosecution can lead strong and positive The two dead bodies were conveyed to the evidence which fixes the accused person at General Hospital Maiyama for post mortem the scene of crime and which evidence the examination. PW2 was the employer of Buzu court accepts, the alibi naturally collapses. (now dead) and he identified the second dead IKEMSON & ORS V THE STATE (1989) NWLR body found at the locus in quo. He had earlier (PT 110) 455; (1989) LPELR-1473(SC). The court on February20,2012 around 6:30pm seen him noted that the learned trial Judge accepted the with the first and fourth accused persons along evidence of the prosecution witnesses and the defence of alibi of the first appellant therefore with other person at Andarai.

According to him, the man now dead was collapses.

The court disagreed with the contention of wearing the same dress he saw him with on inner shirt and an overcoat. The PW3 was the the counsel for the appellants that conspiracy wife of the deceased. PW6, Adamu Aliyu Libba, was not proved. The court stated the test to be did not witness the crime. He only visited the applied in proof of the offence of conspiracy. scene after the incident. PW7, was the police See ERIM V STATE (1994) 6 SCNJ 104; (1994) officer who took the statement of 4th accused. LPELR-1159(SC). The court held that the cirPW8, Inspector Moh’d Garba gave evidence as cumstantial evidence adduced by the prosecuto the exhibits recovered - namely the Toyota tion points directly to the fact that they conCorolla car ash with reg. no. AA-655-GW and spired. The court held that the contention of appellant’s counsel that conspiracy was not a broken down gun.

The appellants in this appeal were the first proved hold no water.

In the final analysis, the court resolved the and third accused persons at the trial court.

The court noted that there was no incriminat- two issues formulated for determination in ing evidence against the third accused, now favour of the respondent.The appeal in respect the second appellant as none of the prosecu- of the second appellant was allowed. His contion witnesses mentioned him. The court held viction and sentence was set aside. He was disthat the finding that the second appellant was charged and acquited. On the first appellant, the court held that the appeal fails as it lacks guilty was perverse.

On the first appellant, the court noted that merit. His conviction and sentence by the trial his conviction was based on circumstantial evi- court was affirmed. dence. The court held that circumstantial evidence where cogent, conclusive and strong •Edited by LawPavilion conviction thereon can be sustained leaving LawPavilion Citation: (2014) LPELRno room for other explanation except the ac- 23823(CA)

Court strikes out suit against Shippers Council

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USTICE Ibrahim Buba of the Federal High Court in Lagos has struck out a suit filed

by Seaports Terminal Operators of Nigeria (STOAN) against the Nigerian Shippers Council (NSC) due to non-compliance with the court’s rules.

The judge said the parties came by way of originating summons but did not raise issues (question) for determination.

“Since the court cannot proceed without knowing the right and interest of the parties which are inextricably tied to the question of determination, the court cannot proceed on that,” he held.

The terminal operators on October 31 secured an interim injunction stopping the NSC from implementing the new directive on port charges.

By John Austin Unachukwu

The NSC had on October 29 published an advertisement announcing the reversal of the unilateral increase in storage charges at the ports by terminal operators.

The storage charges was last increaed by the government on May 1, 2009.

NSC also ordered an increase in the storage period at the ports from three days to seven days. It also directed shipping companies to reduce their charges from N26,500 to N23,850 (20 ft container) and from N48,000 to N40,000 (40 ft container).

NSC further asked shipping agencies to refund container deposits to importers and agents within 10 days after the return of the empty containers.

THE NATION TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2014

42 USEFUL PHONE NUMBERS ON ANY EMERGENCY

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

175TH KANO STATE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL MEETING PREPARED BY COUNCIL AFFAIRS DIRECTORATE, OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY TO THE STATE GOVERNMENT, GOVERNMENT HOUSE, KANO. If only wishes were horses, the good people of Kano State are prepared to ride flying ones to embark on the singular mission of ensuring that Governor Engr. Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso, FNSE continues with a third (3rd) term as the Chief Executive Officer (Governor) of the State without necessarily going to the polls.

Truly, wishes are not horses talk less of flying ones. The constitutional provision is for every elected Governor or even the President to serve for a maximum of two (2) terms if and only re – elected for the second (2nd) term for whatever reason – especially good performance. Specifically, each term spans for four (4) years of which Governor Engr.

Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso, FNSE is on the verge of completing his second (2nd) and last in accordance with provisions of the amended 1999 Constitution of Nigeria.

Yes, it is true that the Government of Kano State under the leadership of Governor Engr.

Rabi’u Musa Kwakwaso, FNSE, unlike others, transformed the quality of lives of the citizenry in all aspects by providing the requirements through transparently delivered services via Government organs inherent in various Ministries, Department and Agencies (MDAs).

The approach focuses all sectors which ensure the tangible achievements recorded as each relates to the aspirations of the people of the State. This way, the physical/ infrastructural; the educational; the health; socio – economic; etc. status of the entire State was positively transformed by the series of approvals granted for the execution of relevant public spirited/oriented projects, programmes, schemes and policies. Everything is on indelible but easily retrievable records as is continually published in the print and broadcast media as well as the internet.

So consolidating to complete what was started in the foregoing eventful three (3) years Governor Engr. Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso, FNSE as the Chairman of the Executive Council continued with the commendable trend on Friday 14th November, 2014 (21st Muharram, 1436 AH) when he presided over its one hundred and seventy fifth (175th) sitting.

Forty seven (47) memoranda from six (6) MDAs were tabled for deliberation of which Council approved thirty (30) cutting across five (5) sectors for execution with an expenditure of One Billion, Three Hundred and Twenty Nine Million, Three Hundred and Thirty Thousand, Five Hundred and Ninety Eight Naira, Seventy Four Kobo (N1,329,330,598.74) covering twenty four (24) projects while the remaining six (6) are on policy issues. Thus; THE EDUCATION SECTOR By now every Nigerian knows the importance Gov Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso attaches to Education being the first, second and third priority of his administration. This trend begin to manifest itself in the gradual increase in performance of our students at both internal and external exams. In fact the ratio of students in school to these outside has improved tremendously as a result of the abolishing of Almajiri and street begging. This has ballooned the population of pupils in from schools from a little over one million in 2011 when he take over as the State’s cheif executive officer to over Three million now.

While in 2010-2011 external exam students was at 6%, in 2013-14 the state has recorded 38% score a clear indication that all the investment made to revive this sector dud not go to waste. This was achieved through improving the infrastructure, quality and quantity of teachers, staff training and retraining, construction of over 3000 brand new classrooms, over 800 staff offices, laboratories fully equipped, workshops, School Buses and many more. All abandoned public buildings which were allowed to waste some for the last 30 years were completed, rehabilitated and modified into schools. Considering Education as a very potent and powerful tool fir empowerment, His Excellency in his ingenious approach established 44 Technical Colleges and 44 School for Islamic Studies one each in all the Local Governments of the state. Congruent to this revolutionary policy, Ministry of Education submitted a request for projects to be undertaken in furtherance of this policy.

Presentation on the Need and Request for Funds to Enable Conversion of Sani Abacha Youth Center into a Technical College:The Ministry of Education submitted this request for consideration by Council cognizant of the resolve by the present administration to convert all unused/underutilized Government owned buildings/facilities into viable schools with the aim of provision educational infrastructure due to increase in population.

Essentially, the structure/facilities at the Sani Abacha Youth Center were inspected, assessed and recommended as suitable for conversion into use as a viable Technical College. The scope of work required was assessed and divided into two (2) phases of which the first (1st) phase was already undertaken involving six (6) items related to renovation at the cost of N8,853,452.20. The second (2nd) phase involving eleven (11) items estimated to cost the sum of N18,794,520.97 is yet to be earmarked upon.

In the light of the above, Council was requested to approve the release of the sum of N27,647,973.17 to enable complete conversion of the Sani Abacha Youth Center to a viable Technical College which was graciously Approved.

Presentation of the Selection Criteria for Sponsorship to Sit for WAEC, NECO, TAHFEEZ and TAJWEED (NBAIS) Examinations for the 2015 Academic Session:Since the inception of the present administration, sponsorship of a reasonable percentage of secondary school leaving candidates in public schools to sit for their final examination is considered a routine issue. All the State indigenous candidates are required to satisfy the selection criteria set by the KERD/AEID. The Ministry of Education submitted the selection criteria along with its cost implication for the sponsorship of deserving State indigenous final year public school candidates to sit for their final examinations for the year 2015 academic session. Contents of this memorandum was summarized and presented for consideration as follows; • Criteria 1 • The State Government to sponsor candidates with five (5) credits and above including English Language and Mathematics in the State Qualifying Examinations conducted by the KERD for the payment of registration fees for the year 2015 WASSCE at

N12,000.00 per candidate. 18,884 representing 26.51% of the 71,241 candidates satisfy this condition with a total cost implication to the tune of 18,884 x N12,000.00 = N226,608,000.00.

• The State Government to Rabi’u Musa Kwankawaso sponsor candidates with five (5) credits and above including Arabic and Islamic Studies SAISS State Qualifying Examinations conducted by the Arabic and Islamic Education Department. 4,658 or 42.68% of the 10,914 candidates that sat for the SAISS Qualifying Examination satisfying this condition.

• The State Government to sponsor candidates with five (5) credits and above including Arabic Language and Qur’anic Studies for NBAIS Tahfeez and Tajweed Examinations. 914 or 56.07% of the 1,630 candidates that sat for the year 2015 NBAIS Tahfeez and SAISSCE satisfy this condition. This brings the total number of the candidates qualified for Government sponsorship to sit for SAISS, NBAIS Tahfeez and Tajweed Examinations to 5,572 (i.e. 4,658 + 914 = 5,572). The registration fee per candidate = N8,000.00 which brings the cost implication to the tune of N8,000.00 x 5,572 = N44,576,000.00.

In a nutshell, criteria 1 requested Council to approve the release of the sum of N271,184,000.00 to sponsor 18,884 Kano State Indigenous Candidates from public schools to sit for the 2015 WASSCE Examinations; 4,658 to sit for the 2015 SAISS Examinations; 914 to sit for NBAIS 2015 Tahfeez and SAISSCE Examinations. The recommendation is for the State Government to fund the financial implications of criteria 1.

• Criteria 2 • The 44 Local Government Council Areas (LGCAs) to sponsor candidates with five (5) credits and above including English Language in the State Qualifying Examination (QE) conducted by the Kano Educational Resource Department (KERD).

16,696 or 23.43% of the 71,241 candidates that sat for the examinations satisfy this condition and qualify for sponsorship/payment for registration fee at the rate of N12,000.00 to sit for the WASSCE in the year 2015 with a total cost to the tune of N12,000.00 x 16,695 = N200,340,000.00.

• The 44 Local Government Council Areas (LGCAs) to sponsor candidates with five (5) credits including Arabic Studies only. 1,289 or 11.81% of the candidates satisfy this condition in the SAISS QE. • The 44 Local Government Council Areas (LGCAs) to sponsor candidates with five (5) credits including Qur’anic Studies only. 590 or 36% satisfy this condition. This brings the total number of candidates for sponsorship by the 44 Local Government Council Areas(LGCAs) to sit for the SAISS NBAIS 2015 Tahfeez and SAISS to 1,289 + 590 = 1,879 number of students with a total cost of 1,879 x N8,000.00 = N15,032,000.00.

In this regard, criteria 2 requested for Council to approve and direct the 44 Local Government Council Areas in Kano State to fund the financial implications of criteria 2 totaling the aggregate sum of N215,372,000.00.

Accordingly Council acknowledged the presentation and approved as follows; The release of the sum of N271,184,000.00 by the State Government to fund criteria 1 as presented.

Mandated the Deputy Governor/Honourable Commissioner, Ministry for Local Governments to instruct the 44 LGCAs to fund the financial implications of criteria 2 to the tune of N215,372,000.00.

THE EMPOWERMENT SECTOR Provision of access to self actualization and general empowerment of the citizenry in the State is among the cardinal resolutions of the current administration under the leadership of Governor Engr. Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso, FNSE. The effort cuts across all segments of the society and the impact is significantly impressive considering the number/categories of the beneficiaries.

Volumes beyond this medium can be written but the main contention is that the trend under this administration cannot be compared to any in Nigeria.

Notwithstanding, the State Executive Council approved execution of twelve (12) memoranda related to empowerment at the sitting as follows; The twelve (12) memoranda approved for execution under the empowerment sector can be sub – divided into three (3). Viz; Provision of Access to Education; Provision of Access to Employable Skill Training; Provision of Support and Capacity Building for Effective Service Delivery. Thus; Provision of Access to Education:The office of the Secretary to the State Government submitted a request for financial assistance from one PhD Computer Science student at the Sultan Zainil Abidin University Malaysia. Details were submitted along with the request for the release of the sum of N2,137,801.48 to enable the student procure equipment necessary for his Research Thesis on Wireless Sensor Network in Precision Agriculture.

Relevance of the request prompted Council to grant approval accordingly.

The authorities of the Turath College of Islamic Studies Gwaoron Dutse corresponded with the office of the Secretary to the State Government in an attempt to redeem a pledge to the school by Governor Engr. Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso, FNSE when he attended its graduation ceremony on 15th December, 2012.

The pledge was made on the allocation of a utility vehicle to the school. An 18 – Seater Toyota Bus at the cost of N8,300,000.00 was recommended for procurement and allocation to the school as pledged.

Council acknowledged and approved as recommended.

Request for funds to enable refund of visa processing fees in respect of 121 of the 501

THE

THE NATION TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2014 Postgraduate Kano State Indigenous Students sponsored for studies at SRM University India submitted by the State Scholarship Board. Details presented were summarized, endorsed by the office of the Secretary to the State Government and presented to Council for consideration. The financial implications are to the tune of N13,090.00 x 121 students = N1,583,890.00.

Council noted and approved for the release of the stated sum.

The office of the State Head of Civil Service submitted a request on behalf of one Dr. Abdullahi B. Mukhtar for the granting of permission for release to undergo a 3 – year postgraduate studies (PhD Bioscience Dermatology) at Cardiff University, UK on salary option. Importantly, the State Ministry of Health and the Office of the Secretary to the State Government endorsed the request as relevant in addressing skin disease as one of the frequent ailments affecting people in State.

Cognizant to this, Council considered and approved as requested.

Provision of Capacity Building for Effective Service Delivery:• Six (6) memoranda were approved for execution at today’s sitting directly related to capacity building under the empowerment sector as follows; The office of the Secretary to the State Government endorsed a notification from the National Identity Management Commission on four (4) problems bedeviling its activities in the State and presented it to Council for consideration.

Council acknowledged the submission and approved execution as follows; • Mandated the Deputy Governor/Honourable Commissioner, Ministry for Local Governments to instruct all Local Government Chairmen to provide them with office accommodation.

• Directed the Rural Electricity Board (REB) to inspect electrical wiring and power connectivity at the State Office of the National Identity Card Management (NICM).

Request for funds to enable enforcement of the Law Banning Street Begging in the State submitted from the State Hisbah Board but endorsed by the office of the Secretary to the State Government and presented to Council for consideration along with the request for the release of the sum of N5,000,000.00 to provide the necessary items required for the exercise.

Council noted, considered and approved as recommended.

The office of the Secretary to the State Government endorsed a request from the State Executive Committee on Empowerment Programme for the release of four (4) months (July – October, 2014) sitting allowances to its four (4) members.

Accordingly, Council considered and approved the release of the sum of N480,000.00 for the stated purpose.

Presentation on the need to commence payment of monthly overhead to three (3) Senior Special Assistants endorsed and submitted by the office of the Secretary to the State Government for consideration by Council. Details presented to Council were approved as follows; • Commencement of the release of the sum of N70,000.00 monthly overhead effective from 1st April, 2014 to the respective Offices of SSA Food Security and SSA House Numbering for effective service delivery.

The office of the Secretary to the State Government endorsed the request for the release of N680,000.00 as payment for four (4) months (July – October, 2014) allowances to the five (5) – Member Committee on Kano Free Trade Zone.

Accordingly, Council considered and approved as requested.

The Committee on Kano Free Trade Zone submitted a request for the release of the trimmed sum of N400,000.00 to enable provision of four (4) items required for the smooth execution of its activities.

Approval was granted as recommended.

Provision of Access to Training for Employable Skills:Two (2) memoranda directly related to the provision of access to training for employable skills under the empowerment sector were approved for execution at the sitting as follows; The Kano State Corporate Security Training Institute Gabasawa submitted a request for the release of the sum of N4,850,000.00 to provide three (3) items required for the training of 500 female students on unarmed combatant at the Institute.

Council noted and approved as recommended by the office the Secretary to the State Government.

The Senior Special Assistant Fisheries submitted a request for release of the sum of N39,960,000.00 for the provision of seven (7) fishing inputs to 200 fishermen and post training packages of six (6) items each to 160 fish farmers. The details were endorsed by the office the Secretary to the State Government and presented to Council for consideration.

Accordingly, Council considered and approved as recommended.

THE INFRASTRUCTURAL DEVELOPMENT/MAINTENANCE SECTOR One among the most important considerations by the present administration in the State is to provide efficient and functional infrastructure and maintain it for use by the citizenry in the State. This include provision of roads and related structures such as bridges, flyovers, street lighting, interlock tiling of pedestrian walkways, building and maintenance of Government facilities and public utilities, provision of steady supply of potable water, provision of affordable residential housing, etc.

In this vein, the State Executive Council approved the execution of eleven (11) memoranda under the infrastructural development/maintenance sector which can be further sub – divided into three (3), viz; Construction of Affordable Modern Residential Housing, Urban Beautification and provision of Government Secretariats/Facilities.

Construction of Modern Affordable Residential Housing:The State Ministry of Land and Physical Planning requested for the release of the sum of N3,734,560.00 as compensation value to be paid to the holder of title No. LKN/CON/ RES/206/354 which was identified for revocation and subsequent incorporation into the proposed Western By – Pass Layout TP/KNUPDA/333 for wider public interest.

Accordingly, Council acknowledged the request and approved as requested.

Council was notified of four (4) newly acquired plots not included in a presentation from the Ministry of Land and Physical Planning which affected twenty six (26) individuals at Dotsa and three (3) individuals at Waratallawa, when presenting the inspection and valuation report on structures affected by the expansion of the current site of Kwankwasiyya City. The additional compensation value for the four (4) omitted plots was assessed and estimated to the tune of N2,101,890.00 which was requested for release to enable payment to the rightful owners.

Council considered and approved as requested.

Urban Beautification:• Six (6) memoranda directly related to urban beautification and upgrading of aesthetic value were approved for execution under the infrastructural development/ maintenance sector. They include the following; Six (6) memoranda on the installation of street lighting at different locations were approved.

• Request for the release of the sum of N316,599,156.50 to enable payment of maintenance commitments for the street lighting provided across the State from 1st January 2012 to 30th October, 2014.

43 Council noted and acknowledged the reduction of 5% from the original sum of money requested and approved for the release of the trimmed sum of N300,000,000.00 to the Taskforce Committee on the Installation/Repairs/Reactivation of Street and Traffic Control Lights in accordance with the details presented.

• Request for the release of N18,101,100.00 to enable replacement of damaged traffic control lights and pedestrian walkway lighting at various locations across the Metropolis during the unfortunate protest embarked in June, 2014.

Accordingly, Council noted, considered and approved as requested.

• The sum of N46,961,277.60 was approved for release by Council as requested to enable the installation of new street lighting along Ahmadiyya Line Road (1.22KM) and Godo – Godo Line Road (0.6KM) total = 1.8KM. • Installation of new double arm street lighting covering City – Farm Center and Surroundings for a distance of 6.0KM was approved for execution at the estimated and requested sum of N100,068,362.20. · Council acknowledged and approved the release of the requested sum of N53,044,359.70 to the Kano State Taskforce Committee on the Installation/Repairs/ Reactivation of Street and Traffic Control Lights to enable installation of new double arm street lighting along Zungeru Road from Airport Road Junction to Hajj Camp Roundabout (1.9KM).

• The sum of N110,106,390.30 was requested for release to enable installation of street lighting within Hotoro and Surroundings at four (4) locations as follows; • Kwanar Sabo to Chula Filling Station at Estern By – Pass (2.6KM).

• Tsamiyar Boka Bus Stop to Danmarke Bus Stop (Habibu Gwarzo Road) (0.9KM).

• Col. Dauda Road (0.9KM).

• Dogon Rimi Line (0.9KM).

Council noted, considered and approved for the release of the sum of N54,208,898.00 to enable installation of street lighting along Kwanar Sabo to Chula Filling Station at Eastern By – Pass (2.6KM).

Provision of Government Secretariat/Facilities:A request from the Ministry of Environment for the release of the sum of N5,335,422.66 to enable provision of nine (9) items required for the utilization of six (6) offices at Audu Bako Secretariat to appropriately accommodate its displaced staff was submitted to Council for consideration.

Accordingly, Council considered and approved as requested.

A request submitted for the release of the sum of N138,979,063.93 from the Ministry of Works, Housing and Transport to enable provision of landscaping, external civil works and parking lots at the Senate Building of Northwest University, Kano was approved by Council based on its significance to upgrade the status of the Senate Building.

THE ENVIRONMENTAL SANITATION/PROTECTION SECTION This sector is unprecedentedly provided for by the present administration as heralded by the concerned attention accorded to all demands from the sector so as to ensure a healthy environment for the good people of Kano State. Heaps of refuse that distort the aesthetic quality of urban Kano are no more due to the enhanced activities of REMASAB as reinvigorated courtesy of the leadership of the present administration in Kano.

Considering the reintroduction of the monthly environmental sanitation as well as that of the activities of sanitary inspection officers (duba – gari), etc. One can go on and on without exhausting the list of the achievements recorded under this sector courtesy of the commendable performance of this administration. Continuing with the effort, Council approved the execution of one (1) memorandum related to the environmental sanitation/ protection sector. Thus; Request for Funds to Enable Sustainable Management of Forest Shelterbelts in the State:The Ministry of Environment tacitly notified Council of the genesis and provided ample reasons for submitting this request for consideration. Essentially, the previously established 200KM distance shelterbelts as well as the newly established 50KM distance shelterbelts required maintenance for which casual staff are engaged and drawn monthly remunerations plus other requirements. Details were presented to Council for consideration along with the request for the release of the sum of N13,990,000.00.

Accordingly, Council noted, considered and approved the release of the trimmed sum of N5,000,000.00 for the maintenance of the Forest Shelterbelt in the State.

THE INFORMATION/COMMUNICATION SECTOR This is the main image maker for this administration whose guiding policy is transparency in all its activities as always published through the untiring effort of the information/ communication sector along the lines of which Council approved the execution of one (1) memorandum at the sitting as follows; Request for Funds to Enable Participation of Kano State Contingent at the 2014 Abuja National Carnival:The Culture of any society is its identity and should covertly be guarded and portrayed befittingly whenever the opportunity to do so unveils itself.

Cognizant to this, the Ministry of Information, Internal Affairs, Youths, Sports and Culture submitted this request for consideration by Council.

Details of the requirements to enable the participation of 500 participants at the 2014 Abuja National Carnival from the State were presented to Council for consideration along with the request for the release of sum of N24,200,000.00 for the stated purpose.

Accordingly, Council considered and approved the release of the sum of N24,200,000.00 to be enable the State Contingent participate in the event.

UPDATE ON ACTIVITIES OF THE 175TH KANO STATE EXECUTIVEs COUNCIL SITTING OPENING OF THE PRESIDENTIAL CAMPAIGN OFFICE AT ABUJA Council noted the successful opening of the Presidential campaign office for the Presidential aspiration of Governor Engr. Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso, FNSE on Tuesday 11th November, 2014 at Abuja. In a related development, Members prayed for Almighty Allah guidance and victory during the race.

MEETING OF NATIONAL COUNCIL ON EDUCATION Council noted the successful hosting of the National Council on Education meeting which was held early this month at Abeokuta, Ogun State. During the meeting, the Council commended Kano State Government on the following issues; Promotion of over 25,000 teachers in the State.

Training of over 30,000 teachers of the State.

AUDITING OF YEAR 2014 ANNUAL FINANCIAL STATEMENT Council noted the successful auditing of the State year 2014 annual financial statement which was printed in different National Dailies.

SIGNED: HON. COMMISSIONER, INFORMATION, INTERNAL AFFAIRS, YOUTH, SPORTS & CULTURE, KANO STATE

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THE NATION TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2014

HEALTH

THE NATION TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2014

45

THE NATION

E-mail:- health@thenationonlineng.net

In the light of the Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) outbreak and other communicable diseases, OYEYEMI GBENGAMUSTAPHA writes that there is the need for infection control programmes in health facilities.

‘Infection control at health facilities needed ’

D

O health facilities adhere to standard infection control?

No! According to Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Anu Dosekun Health Foundation (ADHF), Dr Efunbo Dosekun, the country needs to, as a matter of urgency, ensure that health facilities are up to date on infection control.

Infection Control is the act of preventing the spread of microorganisms between staff members, visitors and patients.

It would be recalled that Ebola was brought into Nigeria by LiberianAmerican Patrick Sawyer who was admitted at the First Consultant Hospital after he fell sick upon arrival. He infected 11 workers at the hospital including the late Dr Stella Adadevoh who made the call to keep him confined and late 25-year-old nurse, Justina Ejelonu who had just started on the job, when late Sawyer was brought in.

The hospital also had to be shut down and some of its equipment discarded due to exposure to the virus. Nigeria was declared Ebola free on October 20 by the World Health Organisation after losing eight citizens to the disease.

According to the late Ameyoh Adadevoh’s friend, Dr Dosekun, health care-associated infections have become more common as medical care has grown more complex and the management/ treatment of patients more complicated.

“I was outside the window of my late friend, 24 hours before she went to rest in the Lord. As a professional, she confided in me that she was at a low risk to the index case. Our trainings outside the country made both of us know that she was a casualty of health care-associated infections.

“I owe my late friend and colleague a resolution to ensure the system works to save many other

potential health workers from infections. And that is why I am now canvassing that government at all levels should declare a national emergency on infection control in our healthcare facilities nationwide.

There are emerging diseases such as EVD and re-emerging diseases such as Tuberculosis (TB) that are highly pathogenic. Infection prevention and control programmes must work. The starting point is hand washing, using the five steps, and expanding Healthcare workers’ (HCWs) vaccination programmes to reduce the risk of spread of pathogens such as influenza virus from HCWs to patients. HCWs can transmit infection to patients, viceversa.”

Dr Dosekun said: “In every healthcare centre, there should be a team designated to ensure Infection Control policies and procedures are in place and are being followed. In addition to this, any employee involved in patient care and/or has contact with items used to care for patients must follow Infection Control policies and procedures.

This means you, as a person must be responsible.

“Infection control is important in health care facilities because sick people are being treated in small spaces. This increases the chances that patients with a variety of different micro-organisms will come in contact with staff members who may potentially spread these microorganisms to other patients.

Infection control becomes paramount. If good hand hygiene and standard precautions are practiced by all staff members, then risk is very low.”

She explained: “Standard precautions, also known as universal precautions, are the work practices required for the basic level of infection control. These work practices include: Good hygiene,

Akwa Ibom passes Bill on infectious diseases

T

•May cremate bodies

HE Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly has possed a bill on infectious diseases, into law. The law deals essentially on how to control the spread of such diseases. The bill is an internal control mechanism.

The provisions of the Bill include the power of the governor during outbreak of infectious diseases. It states that the governor, upon the advice of Commissioner for Health, can prohibit the movement of corpses into the state.

The Bill also provides that upon the occurrence of any death in the state, the relations of the deceased person shall report such death to the medical officer in charge of the place where the death occurred and where the medical officer is of the opinion that a person has died of an infectious disease, the medical officer may confiscate the corpse for the purpose of cremation.

The Bill also provides for medical certificate of the cause of death, isolation on contacts, medical examination of contacts, isolation and cremation centres, burial within three months, prohibition of uncertified embalmment centres as well as presentation of medical certificate of cause of death at embalm-

By Uyoatta Eshiet, Uyo

ment centres.

In his remarks during plenary, the Speaker Rt. Hon. Samuel Ikon who presided over the sitting commended the President Goodluck Jonathan and the immediate past minister of Health and the Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State governor for acting pro-actively in praised spread of Ebola.

The speaker also called on relevant security agencies to protect our borders and ensure that we do not have another Patrick Sawyer sneak into Nigeria again and cause us pains.

Speaking with Assembly correspondents shortly after plenary, Chairman House Committee on Health, Hon (Elder) Friday Iwok pointed out certain areas the committee amended in the Executive Bill to include penalty for operating a mortuary without proper certification from the Ministry of Health, the duration for a corpse burial which must not be more than three months and the cremation of corpses certified to have died of infectious disease, maintaining that the new law seeks to protect Akwa Ibom people.

such as hand hygiene and the use of gloves when required; protocols for managing occupational exposures plus use of proper personal protective equipment (PPE); proper collection, storage, and disposal of waste plus the safe use and disposal of sharps; proper disinfection and sterilisation of equipment and proper use of cleaning agents.

Standard precautions are needed to help minimise the spread of microorganisms and infections. All body substances (except sweat and tears) should be considered a

potential source of infection; and Standard precautions should be used for the treatment and care of all patients regardless of infectious status. Hand washing is the most important procedure in preventing and minimising the spread of infection in a healthcare facility.”

According to Dr Dosekun, her foundation is planning an introductory workshop on infection prevention and control slated for first week, next month and needs sponsorship. “This is because simple things that are significant in infection

control are overlooked. For example, gloves serve as a barrier to protect the person wearing them from contamination and to prevent the transfer of organism already on the hands. As a result, gloves should be worn in any situation where a staff member may be exposed to blood or bodily fluids.

Other precautions to take include covering open wounds and sores with a water proof dressing; get vaccinated against Hepatitis B and tetanus and making sure vaccinations are up-to-date.”

•From left: Dr Dosekun with some of her team members. Project Coordinator, Anu Dosekun Healthcare Foundation, Dr Segun Ebitanmi (left) and Project Manager, Mr Ifeanyi Anyiam.

Don: Nigerian children lack nutrients

M

ANY children are said to be lacking micro and macro nutrients.

A Professor of Paediatrics, University of Calabar, Emmanuel E. Ekanem, stated this during the Pharmacists Annual National conference, held in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State Speaking on The role of trace elements and vitamins in Neuro-cognitive and Immunological development in childhood.

Ekanem said almost half of the children in Nigeria have one form of macro or micronutrient deficiencies.

“There are certain nutrients we call micro nutrients. These nutrients required in small quantity are very important for the intellectual development of the child and to resist infection.

“The very important ones are Vitamin A, D, Iron, Zinc, Iodine and Vitamin B group, etc. When these things are deficient in the child, the effect will show in the child’s intellectual development and cause poor attention which will make the child not able to concentrate in school.

“People may think that the child is a naughty child but the child may just be deficient in iron. The same goes for a number of other nutrients like zinc required for intellectual

K

By Oyeyemi Gbenga-Mustapha

development and the child’s immune system.

“So, the child must be replete or must be supplied with these nutrients very early in life. Breast milk will always be the best to supply nutrients in the first six months of life but we must add these nutrients to the other feeds of the child as the child grows up.

“The first two years of life are critically important. But if you miss that window period, the intellectual deficiency will continue into its adolescence and adult life. Therefore, we need as recommended by World Health Organisation, micro nutrients and vitamin mixes that will supply the Nigerian child these micro nutrients in adequate quantity.”

Prof Ekanem noted that an indigenous multivitamin- Reload, has met the standard of World Health Organisation and that is comforting, that parents and healthcare givers can use to address the problem.

According to Prof Ekanem, the most notable thing about Reload Multivitamin Syrup is that it meets the World Health Organisation (WHO) criteria for micro-nutrients

and vitamin mixes, for optimum intellectual and neurological development of the child. The new infant multivitamin drop and syrup are formulated with an enriching taste to reduce the possibility of nutritional deficiency in kids.

According to the Chief Operating Officer, Pharmacy Plus Limited, Obi Chukwuemeka, the Reload Liquid Range comes in three ranges: Reload Tonic which helps recuperating children as well as the Reload Kidz Syrup and Reload Infant Drops that have been formulated to enhance a healthy diet and help ensure that kids get the nutrition they need every day.

He said: “Nutrients play a crucial role in helping children live and grow healthy. It is often difficult for them to get all the nutrition they need through diet alone. Likewise, it can be challenging to find a multivitamin that tastes good enough for them to take every day.

“Reload Tonic, Reload Kidz syrup and Reload Infant Drops are tasty liquid multivitamin supplements that kids like to take. Because they are liquid, these supplements are quickly and easily absorbed by the body, greatly reducing the likelihood of nutritional deficiency.”

Experts meet to tackle diabetes, others

EY players and medical experts in the health sector are seeking ways to manage common health problems that are affecting Africans. The forum is the 10th West African Health (WAH) International Medical and Pharmaceutical Exhibition and Conference at Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos. It holds between 20 and 21 November. The problems, according to the WAH Project Direc-

By Wale Adepoju

tor, Dr Wale Alabi, are diabetes, hospital acquired infections (HAIs), and palliative medicine.

Others are critical illness management for children, diagnostic medicine and sickle cell management, as well as asthma management. Healthcare professionals will also have Continuous Medical Education (CME) sessions and other interactive

platforms where they would discuss uncommon problems.

Chief of Surgery and Group Clinical Adviser at Lagoon Hospitals, Dr. Olujimi Coker, and Microbiologist at University of Ilorin, Kwara State, Dr. Abayomi Fadeyi, among others, would take medical doctors through a session that will seek to inspire participants to engage in infection control and quality improvement techniques in the hospital set up.

46

THE NATION TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2014

HEALTH Insurgency has created constraints for healthcare delivery in the North. OYEYEMI GBENGA-MUSTAPHA seeks experts’s views on options for health officers in the discharge of their duties.

H

Tips on healthcare delivery amid insurgency

EALTHCARE delivery has suffered terrible set back in the North because of insurgency, but experts have now suggested ways out of the problem.

According to the Association of Medical Officers of Health Nigeria (AMOHN) primary health services in the crises-ridden part of the North have largely shut down, with high mortality rates recorded and vaccination programmes severely hit.

According to the association, the grave consequences on national health are apparent and members should not give up in discharging their duties.

Medical officers of Health are the heads of Primary Health Care departments in the 774 local governments, nationwide.

According to the association, reports from some of their members in those states revealed that the sick are forced to trek long distances to receive medical attention in designated places (mostly put up by international health aides) and vaccination programmes for children are compromised. Violence by Boko Haram militants has raged since 2009, but has been particularly ferocious in recent months. Worst hit by the attacks are villages in remote, rural areas near Borno’s border with Cameroon. This is in spite of the government imposing emergency rule on these states, in May last year.

The association has organised a two-day conference to strengthen the capacity of medical officers in their response to the implementation of PHC activities in the face of security challenge. It has as its theme,Primary Healthcare: The bedrock of a healthy nation.

According to the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), 6000 children are among the internally displaced persons in camps in the town of Mubi in Adamawa State, one of the states under the attack of Boko Haram.

A source, www.cracong.org revealed that in the attempt to escape, some children managed to wade through to safety, while many others were not so lucky as they either died in the process, ensnared in the bush or are among the thousands of displaced persons currently trapped at the border between Nigeria and Cameroon Republic.

“Hundreds of children had to grapple with the inclement condition of the bush which included sleeping in the mosquito infested environment, staying for long hours without food or water and trekking long distances and the overbearing heat occasioned by intense sunshine during the afternoon hours which usually resulted in dehydration. Some of the children who were not strong enough to endure the tortuous journey to safety gave up the ghost just as other who fell ill had to be carried or were left

President, Association of Medical Officers of Health, Dr Ayodele flanked by Treasurer, Dr Muideen Bamidele (left) and member, Dr Yaya Disu.

with their parents in the bush.

“About five children aged between and five years died while we were wading through the thick bush path and mountains on our way to freedom. Due to sympathy, I helped carry a two-year-old child belonging to one pregnant woman for many hours in the bush. But circumstances made me to drop the child when his heavily pregnant mother was forced by the stormy and rough journey to make an impromptu delivery,” said a witness.

“Some of the children died of hunger while others got dehydrated.

Since we set out into the bush, one of the children yearned endlessly for food and water and up till the time he died, the child was yearning for water and food. When we stopped to rest following long hours of trekking, the boy suddenly stopped talking and we thought that he had fallen asleep only to realise that he has given up the ghost as thirst and hunger overwhelmed him. Even as an adult, I never thought I would come out of that predicament alive as I never felt so close to death,” he added.

State Coordinator, Lagos State, World Health Organisation (WHO), Dr Sunday Abidoye while giving tips to the members on: ‘Implementation of Primary Health Care activities in Security compromised areas’, said: “Security has been defined as state of being safe from threats, especially from danger and attack. Conversely, insecurity has been described as not being safe from danger or attack. Hence a security challenging environment is an environment where it is difficult to say you are sure of your safety or you are free from being attacked.

Such an environment is characterised by constant fear and panic for one’s safety. Insecurity

leads to destruction of public health infrastructure such as Primary health Care centres, maternity centres and health posts alongside other infrastructures needed for the effective delivery of Primary Health care services. Health facilities burnt down and looted by insurgents. This also affects access to PHC services.”

Dr Abidoye said the medical officers should not shy away from the effects of security challenges on PHC such as people not having access to basic health services, because of attacks on health personnel and health centres, or health centres being touched, destroyed and/or closed down due to insecurity.

Health centres becoming inactive; maternal and infant mortality rates increasing; women dying from obstetric complications and lack of health services and children dying from mostly preventable diseases before their fifth birthday.

Dr Abidoye said one thing common to the countries that are still polio endemic, in polio eradication initiative globally- Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Nigeria (PAN) is insecurity.

“Presently Nigeria has six wild polio virus (WPVs) and all are in the Northern part of the country where much of the insecurity dwells. Circulating Vaccine-derived poliovirus (cVDPV) is a mark of poor routine immunisation in a community. Nigeria also has 21 cases of type 2 circulating vaccinederived poliovirus (cVDPV2), 38 per cent are in Kano State while 62 are in Borno State. These are areas routine PHC activities are disturbed due to insecurity,” said Dr Abidoye.

Dr Abidoye told the participants that: “Your area of specialisation as public health doctors is the first level of contact of individuals, the family and community with the

national health system bringing health care as close as possible to where people live and work, and constitutes the first element of a continuing health care process. Primary healthcare is essential health based on practical, scientifically sound and socially acceptable methods and technology made universally accessible to individuals and families in the community through their full participation and at a cost that the community and country can afford to maintain.

“In the crises-stricken Northern Nigeria, the need to establish a reservoir of healthcare workers (HCWs) with the competence to intervene in the treatment of the citizens in the region cannot be overemphasised. The fact that crises-laden societies fuel the spread of polio, HIV/AIDS and other vices is well documented. With the Borno State HIV prevalence at five per cent and the state bordering three countries, there is need to scale up HIV services including PMTCT. Dr Abidoye encouraged the participants on ways to sustain PHC in security challenged environments by having detailed security assessment to determine accessible areas.

‘Hit and run’ out reaches (possible components of the PHC package).

Going to displaced peoples’ camps.

Organise regular outreaches with full compliments of PHC package.

The involvement of local people to support activities. Regular contact with security personnel to reach safe areas. Free services in safe areas to attract clients. Health camps in safe areas surrounding inaccessible areas, a concept called ‘firewalling’.

Health camps in major transit points for displaced people. Health camps include UNICEF supported centres for management of malnourished children.

To strengthen the capacity of Medical officers in their response to the implementation of PHC activities in the face of security challenge, Dr Abidoye said they should engage others: “Use of Non Governmental Organisations (NGOs)

and other humanitarian agencies like Red Cross and Red Crescent; the various conflicting forces to give healthcare to those on their own side of the conflict. Campaign on warring forces to respect the neutrality of health services and stop attacking health workers and government health centres to intensify measures to improve security and ensure the safety and protection of health workers.

The AMOHN President, Dr Segun Ayodele, said government should explore additional ways of funding Primary Health Care, as the primary health centres nationwide are grossly underfunded by the third tier of government- the local government which is the weakest level of government with about one quater of the National revenue, “hence we call on all stakeholders, including government, health professionals, community leaders, funders, partners, the Media, education sector and all other health related sectors to build alliances for the sake of re-positioning our primary health care for improving the health of the people”, he said.

Dr Ayodele said the passage of the National Health Bill into Law will also be significant in the funding of PHC. ”The National Health Bill was conceived as a bold attempt to address the underfunding of primary healthcare through the creation of primary health care fund. It is rather unfortunate that this bill is yet to see the light of the day due to political bickering. I hereby appeal to our politicians to see reason why the national health bill should be passed and accented to without any further delay. Despite beautiful policies of government, implementation and lack of political will have been the bane of primary healthcare in the country,” he stated.

He noted that most PHCs nationwide lack adequate technical manpower, infrastructural facilities are grossly inadequate and the ones available are largely dilapidated.

“And since the inauguration of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) in Nigeria in 2005, the scheme has covered only about 4.2 per cent of the citizenry. There is need to rebuild the foundation of our health care in Nigeria,” stated Dr Ayodele.

Dr Ayodele said peace is a veritable tool in ending security challenges. “Health facilities burnt down and looted by insurgents affect access to PHC services. Effects of Security challenges on PHC are many. Insecurity leads to destruction of public health infrastructure such as Primary health Care centres, maternity centres and health posts alongside other infrastructures needed for the effective delivery of Primary Health care services. Insurgents may kidnap health workers to go and administer treatments for them. Killing of health workers.

Fleeing of health workers from insecure areas. Only few may be left behind leading to lack of health workers. Training may be affected.

Standard of health care delivery may fall.

Group conducts free health mission

T •From left: Chairman on World Health Activities, Dr. Dumebi Owa, Director Corporate Affairs/ Health and Value Business, PFizer Nigeria, Ghana and East Africa, Mrs. Margaret Olele, Deputy Director Health, Nigeria Television Authority, Dr. Martina Agberien, and Commercial Director, Pfizer Nigeria, Ghana and East Africa, Mr. Yinka Subair, during a media parley ahead of World Pneumococcal Diseases Day at Pfizer’s office in Lagos.

HE Health, Education, Work and Shelter (H.E.W.S.) has signed a partnership agreement with the Shell Petroleum Development Company and its Joint Venture Partners to provide free cleft lip and palate surgery to 20 indigent patients.

This will be held at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH) between November 17 and 20. H.E.W.S. Foundation primary mission is to help pull people out of poverty, ignorance, dis-

By Oyeyemi Gbenga-Mustapha

ease and homelessness by providing grants, scholarships, and micro-credit facilities to indigent Nigerians. This is the 12th in the series of H.E.W.S. Foundation Free Surgery programme in four years of the foundation’s existence.

Ondo, Ekiti, Oyo, Gombe and Edo State have benefit from previous free missions, with successful repair and reconstruction surgery carried out on 130 patients comprising 70 children and 60 adults.

THE NATION TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2014

47

THE NATION

BUSINESS AVIATION

Multiple airport taxes, charges weigh down operators Airline operators are groaning under the burden of increasing costs of operations, occasioned by multiple taxes and other airport charges.

They are asking that these charges be harmonised in line with global practice, reports Aviation Correspondent KELVIN OSAOKUNBOR. THERE is growing discontent among domestic operators over rising airport taxes and charges.

They are querying the rationale for such exorbitant charges in Nigerian, saying they are the highest in the world.

There is considerable concern that the development might cripple the domestic segment of the aviation sector, therefore airline operators are calling on government to harmonise airport taxes and charges as applicable in other parts of the world Last week, Domestic airline operators met in Lagos to engage officials of the Ministry of Aviation tom explore ways on how to review the domestic charges, arguing that the prevailing airport charges and taxes if left unchecked, could stifle their business.

The International Air Transport Association ( IATA), is in agreement with the domestic operators, saying that airport charges in Nigeria are the highest in the world.

Among the charges Nigeria domestic operators are subjected to, are landing and parking fees, fuel surcharge, passenger service charge and ticket sales charge .

Others are ground rent, Value Added Tax (VAT), terminal charges, apron pass charge, toll gate charges, apron licence charge and vehicle permit charge.

Such charges, many of which IATA consider prohibitive, are not customer friendly, and could serve as a disincentive to airlines and other players who are willing to set up similar business in the country .

Speaking at a recent event in Nigeria, IATA Director-General, Tony Tyler, said the global body is working closely with the Nigerian government to resolve the high charge regimes for air navigation services, saying Nigeria is among the countries with high aviation taxes in the world.

Many international and domestic airlines attribute the high cost of air tickets to the multiple taxes and charges.

Tyler argued that beside the limited physical infrastructure, there are other deficiences, which must be addressed as they concern airport charges.

He said the high charges in the face of inadequate airports’ facilities cannot be justified.

Worried the trend, the Federal Government two weeks ago inaugurated a committee to review airport rates. Minister of Aviation, Chief Osita Chidoka, said the task of the committee

•Bankole would be to ascertain the appropriateness of the charges imposed on air travellers and ensure that all users of our airport facilities are paying charges that are comparable with what is obtainable across the world and in our neighbouring countries.

He said: “Customers have largely complained and I have listened to them on the charges and we decided to investigate and find out what the charges are, what they are paying, and then compare it with other countries because my job as the minister is to measure and improve and if we do not measure, we cannot improve.

“So, we are seeking that the committee will review all Nigeria Aviation and Aeronautical and Passenger Charges. We will like to know if all the fees that passengers pay from the toll gate to hiring of cars to convey them, we want to determine the factors behind the charges and we want to know if the charges is the same with other countries.

“To determine the factors responsible for the disparity (if any) between the charges and those of other countries with similar regional conditions. Also to determine why some of the neighbouring West African countries are customers of choice to international airlines and aviation companies.”

The minister said the committee is expected to submit the report of their findings in four weeks’ time, adding that the committee would liaise with operators and others to find a way around the high airport charges.

Already, the committee has begun sitting in Lagos, and operators have been submitting their proposals on how to resolve the high charge regime.

The Executive Chairman, Airline Operators of Nigeria ( AON ), Captain Nogie Meggison, while commenting on the issue, said there is need for government to harmonise the charges and taxes levied operators to make the business environment customer friendly .

He said :” The multiple taxes, levies and airport charges have ripple effects on airline business .They have their collateral effect on the

•Meggison

•Chidoka

operations of airlines. The airport charges, taxes, navigation fees, and other levies introduced by government are affecting the business.”

He said the multiple charges have direct impact on the operations and profitability of airlines, stating that a collapse of the charges into a unified block will assist operators, whether they are involved in charter, or scheduled flight operations.

“We advocate a one-stop shop payment system. It would be of immense benefit to domestic airlines.

“We think it is good, it is the way to go. It will assist airlines to rework their cost of operations, which we continue to argue, is on the high side. We pay VAT, passenger service charge and five per cent charges to the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and we also pay charges to NAMA. So, how many taxes are you going to pay.

So, I think the policy should be looked at, unfair taxation and double taxation.”

On his part, the Managing Director of Medview Airlines, Alhaji Muneer Bankole, said there is need for government to harmonise the charges and taxes levied domestic carriers. He canvassed a single charge regime to encourage airlines .

He said apart from the five per cent Ticket Sales Charges collected by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority on behalf of other agencies, airline operators are still saddled with the responsibilities of paying different charges to the agencies, such as the landing and parking charge, passenger service charge and en-route navigational charge.

He stressed the necessity of harmonising some of these charges, saying that this would be in the overall interest of the sector as a whole.

He said: “The Federal Government needs to harmonise these charges. These are the challenges we face in this industry. The NCAA is collecting five per cent on tickets sold, which I think is enough for the agencies; unfortunately, we still pay other agencies from the money we earn.

“This is not good for the industry as a whole, and we hope that government will look into ways of addressing this problem which

has become a major challenge to operators in the country.”

Another stakeholder in the aviation sector, Alhaji Mohammed Tukur, said that the problem of multiple charges had forced some airlines to close shop.

He said, “The issue of multiple charges is a major challenge facing local airline operators. The charges are so numerous and have significantly affected airlines’ operations.

“For instance, we pay five per cent charge for passenger’s ticket, which is a compulsory payment for every operator. This implies that when you buy a flight ticket from any airline, five per cent must be paid to the NCAA. If you book for a private charter flight going to Abuja or any destination within Nigeria, you are bound to pay certain charges. Assuming the amount for the charter flight is N5m, you must pay five per cent of that to the NCAA.” He mentioned other charges paid by operators as on-duty card, payment for car park, access fees, office charges, electricity bills, charges on aviation fuel, among others.

“You can see that all these make the operating environment not to be conducive for local airlines to thrive.”

Also speaking, chairman of new entrant : Air Peace, Mr Allen Onyema, urged government to consider reduction in airport charges to keep carriers afloat .

Onyema said :”Government should not only support startup airlines, but the existing carriers because airport and air navigation charges are too many. Five per cent to this agency; five per cent to the other; the bulk of the revenue accruing from ticket sales go back to aviation agencies as payment for charges. Under this kind of arrangement, no airline can break even, let alone run profitably or recover their operating costs. If the airlines cannot recover their costs, that means they are incurring losses and ultimately they close shop.

The negative impact of an airline closing shop is that there will be job losses which give rise to insecurity. I am calling on President Goodluck Jonathan to direct aviation agencies to reduce airport and other air navigation charges for

Customers have largely complained and I have listened to them on the charges and we decided to investigate and find out what the charges are, what they are paying, and then compare it with other countries because my job as the minister is to measure and improve and if we do not measure, we cannot improve

domestic carriers to enable them keep their business afloat.

The current administration has done well for aviation, but government should remove the double and high airport charges that have become prohibitive. If an airline is paying out over 10 to 15 per cent of its revenue as airport charges, where will the operator get money for aircraft insurance and maintenance, aviation fuel and other issues it must attend to? Where will the airline now get money to pay its overhead costs? So, the prohibitive charges should be done away with; they belong to the past.”

The Deputy Managing Director and Head of Flight Operations of Arik Air, Captain Ado Sanusi, said that the issue of multiple taxation should be tackled in order to assist the airlines sustain their operations.

“The issue should be tackled and there are so many incentives that should be given to airlines that are coming up in order to protect and encourage them to grow. If you look at the airlines that have been very successful in the world, they have protection and they were given government backing to grow before they were allowed to compete with international carriers.

“So it is extremely important that government makes deliberate policies in protecting the industry and also allowing the airlines to grow.

It should be in the interest of government to have viable airlines flying in the country,” Sanusi said.

The Managing Director of Discovery Air, Captain Mohammed Abdulsalami, pointed out that multiple taxes imposed on airlines by government agencies is affecting domestic opetators.

He said “As you know most operators have been complaining about fuel which takes about 40 per cent of the operating cost. We have also complained about taxes. Even Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) has officially complained this to the new Minister of Aviation.

Even at the international level, IATA the International Air Transport Association (IATA) recognised that the industry is heavily over taxed here.

Former Chief Operating Officer of Dana Air, Yvan Drewinsky described Nigeria as a very hostile environment to operate airlines, saying that the charges being paid by airline were too much in addition to the high cost of aviation fuel.

He said that the first thing government should do to sustain domestic carriers was to reduce these taxes and also seek fairer pricing for fuel, so that the airlines could operate profitably.

Aviation consultant, Olumide Ohunayo, said the issue of multiple taxation should be tackled in order to assist the airlines sustain their operations.

According to him, “the issue should be tackled and there are so many incentives that should be given to airlines that are coming up in order to protect and encourage them to grow. If you look at the airlines that have been very successful in the world, they have protection and they were given government backing to grow before they were allowed to compete with international carriers.

“So it is extremely important that government makes deliberate policies in protecting the industry and also allowing the airlines to grow. It should be in the interest of government to have viable airlines flying in the country,” Ohunayo said.

48

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2014

THE NATION

BUSINESS ENERGY

E-mail:- energy@thenationonlineng.net

Shell’s global deepwater holds 675b bbls T recoverable oil, says IEA

HE Royal Dutch Shell’s global deepwater assets have been said to contain an estimated 675 billion barrels of recoverable oil.

In its latest monthly publication, Shell World, published by Shell companies in Nigeria, the company quoted the International Energy Agency (IEA) as putting Shell’s global deepwater proven reserves at about 675 billion barrels. In the publication, Shell confirmed that it has enjoyed decades of successful projects and some landmark moments in 2014 in global deepwater.

It stated that its Nigerian Bonga North West (BNW) Field, which achieved first oil in August, is part of Shell’s long-standing commitment to developing deepwater engineering skills in Nigeria, adding that the investments made by Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company (SNEPCo) and its other project partners in the Bonga North West project include upgrades of local contractors’ facili-

By Emeka Ugwuanyi

ties and providing specialised training for Nigerians to work in the energy industry.

Oil from the Bonga North West field, according to Shell, is transported by a new subsea flowline to the existing Bonga subsea infrastructure while additional equipment and control systems were installed and integrated with Bonga Main topsides.

The publication noted that a significant part of the project was carried out by Nigerian companies including an indigenous contractor that fabricated and installed the BNW topsides equipment.

Commenting on the BNW achievement, Shell’s Vice President Nigeria & Gabon, Markus Droll, said: “It is significant to note that the project leadership

and majority of staff working on the BNW project are Nigerians – testament to the growth of deepwater engineering experience in SNEPCo. Above all, we are pleased that the project has so far been delivered without lost time injury (LTI) with SNEPCo and contractor staff working safely on various aspects of the project in about 10 different locations in the United States, Europe and Nigeria.

“This programme – on top of the ongoing Phase 2 drilling and after the start-up of Bonga North-West barely two months ago – further underlines our commitment to Nigeria and leadership in deepwater production.”

The Corporate Media Relations Manager, Precious Okolobo, also said that SNEPCo has announced plans to drill eight more wells in

the Bonga field to help maximise deepwater production in Nigeria.

This third phase of the Bonga Main development is expected to add about 40,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day through the existing Bonga floating production, storage and offloading (FPSO) facility.

Okolobo stated that Phase 3 is an expansion of the existing Bonga Main development and will involve drilling four oil producing and four water injection wells.

Drilling is expected to start in 2015. Output from the new wells will be transported through existing pipelines to the FPSO facility. The facility has the capacity to produce more than 200,000 barrels of oil and 150 million standard cubic feet of gas a day.

The Phase 3 work will be executed by several contractors including Nigerian companies that have developed deepwater expertise through the provision of similar services for SNEPCo. The Bonga field, which began producing oil and gas in 2005, was Nigeria’s first deep-water devel-

•Shell’s Chief Executive Officer Ben Van Beurden

opment in depths of more than 1,000 metres. Bonga has produced over 500 million barrels of oil to date.

The Bonga project is operated by SNEPCo as contractor under a production sharing contract with the Nigerian National Petroleum Company, which holds the lease for OML 118, in which the Bonga field is located. SNEPCo holds a 55 per cent, Esso Exploration & Production Nigeria Limited 20 per cent, Total E&P Nigeria Limited 12.5 per cent and Nigerian Agip Exploration Limited 2.5 per cent.

Prices hamper SON’s battle against fake gas cylinders

T

• Executive Director, FENOG Nigeria Limited, Matthew Tonlagha (left) and Executive Secretary, Nigeria Content Development & Monitoring Board, Ernest Nwapa, during the inauguration of the 350 tons multi-purpose drilling rig at Ugbuwangwe, Warri, Delta State.

Power Ministry to Kano Govt: follow due process T HE Ministry of Power has advised Kano State Government to follow due process in obtaining all requisite approvals before commencement of any hydro electricity project in the state.

The Special Adviser to the Minister of Power on Investment, Finance and Donor, Olajuwon Olaleye, told The Nation at a conference in Lagos that as much as the ministry encourages the growth of the sector by seeking private and public participation in electricity projects, due process is required of Kano State Government before it can access water for power generation purpose.

He said the Federal Ministry of Water Resources is charged with the responsibilities of giving approval for the use of water for power generation, therefore, he advised the Kano State Government to approach the Water Resources Ministry for such approvals.

Olaleye, who was responding to allegations of non-approval of licence for hydro power generation

By Akinola Ajibade

raised by the Special Adviser to the Kano State Governor, Amisi Abdullahi, insisted that due process must be followed to get needed approvals. He said there is a director in the Water Ministry that the Kano State Government needs to interface with to get the approvals.

He said: “The Federal Ministry of Water Resources also has an agency that is being funded by bilateral organisations. The agency works on dam projects especially dams that are meant for power generation. On the issue of licensing for power generation, there is a process that needs to be followed, especially for a private company that wants to be involved in electricity generation.”

He said the state government needs to look inward by tapping into opportunities in solar energy.

In a related development, Abdullahi said that Kano State Government is targeting 10 megawatts (Mw) of electricity by December 2014. He said the 10ms would be added to the 250mw of electricity, which the state is currently getting from the national grid.

He stated that the state government will use the 10mw of electricity to provide street lights, noting that the government relies on alternative source of energy for sustenance.

“We are targeting 10mw of electricity by December 2014. We will use it to power our street lights. We are using diesel generators, which virtually everybody is using in Nigeria to augment supply from the grid. The government is facing challenges such as failure to get approvals to generate power through hydro means,” he said.

Abdullahi said the state government is taking a proactive approach towards improving electricity generation, adding that hydro power generation holds much prospects for the state.

HE Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) is facing challenges in its fight against the influx of substandard gas cylinders in the market because they are very cheap.

The Nation investigations showed that there is a surge in the influx and sale of the cylinders in Lagos and its environs due to their low cost. It was gathered that marketers are repainting old gas cylinders in various colours - blue, brown, light red and others - to give them a new look and further get buyers for them.

The Nation gathered that marketers sell 12.5 kilogramme of cylinders at between N3,000 N4,000 at Oshodi, Egbeda, Idimu, Ikotun, Iyana Oba, Yaba and other areas within the Lagos metropolis, as against N7,000 for a new one. Refurbished 14.7 kilogramme gas cylinders are sold for between N5,200 - N5,000 as agaisnt N9,000 for the new ones.

A marketer who spoke to The Nation in confidence, said that he gets supplies from a business associate and friend who imports the product, among other household equipment from Europe. He said the gas cylinders are fairly used, adding that many of them were produced 10 to 15 years ago.

The source said: “I do not know the reasons behind the grouping of some gas cylinders as substandard, obsolete and new. It is like fairly used cars popularly called Tokunbo being imported into Nigeria. The fact that they are produced years ago does not mean they have outlived their usefulness. I discover that when these cylinders come to Nigeria, some are in perfect condition.

They look beautiful, while others are not. We separate the gas cylinders that are leaking and faded, from the ones that are not.

“Thereafter, we look for spraying machine and do the needful.

After using the machine to spray

By Akinola Ajibade

the gas cylinders with different colours, we put a price tag on them. The price is relatively lower, compared to the new cylinders. The reason for different prices is to allow customers to choose from the various categories. This is part of the marketing strategies adopted to woo customers and made them buy the products. We are in a country where consumers love to buy cheaper products.”

The Head, Enforcement Department, Standard Organisation of Nigeria (SON), Bede Obayi said plans are ongoing to rid the country of substandard gas cylinders. He said the agency has impounded over 5,000 cylinders, which are kept in the warehouse.

He stated that the cylinders were seized from various parts of the country in line with ensuring safety of lives and environment.

“We have offices in virtually all the states of the federation. We ensure that our workers in those offices are mobilised to inspect goods and later impound those that are found to have grave consequences on the people.

Immediately we seize those goods (cylinders), we take them to the warehouse from where they are moved to fabrication companies for melting,” he said.

The Federal Government had issued a directive banning obsolete gas cylinders from sale in the market and ordered that such cylinders should be replaced with new ones. The directive, which took effect in 2014, will see the government outlawing gas cylinders of certain age to ensure a healthy and safe environment.

Meanwhile, the government is making move to re-start production of gas cylinders in the country. The Executive Secretary, Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), Ernest Nwapa, said the idea will help in promoting local content activities and further reduce importation of the product.

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TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2014

ENERGY

T

‘Refining crude in-country will help grow economy’

HE Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) has urged the Federal Government to boost in-country refining of crude to enhance growth of the economy, especially in this period of oil price decline.

IPMAN National President, Chief Chinedu Okoronkwo gave the advice during the association’s zonal meeting and swear-in ceremony of the new western zone’s vice-chairman held in Lagos.

Okoronkwo stated that the current decline of crude price in the international market should not disturb Nigerians, noting that if crude is substantially refined locally, it would eliminate expenditures on importation and other processes of ensuring petroleum products availability in the country as well as boost value creation, Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and job creation.

According to him, over 243 byproducts are derived from crude oil but only three are exploited in Nigeria. He said: “We should not entertain any fear on the current decline in crude oil prices globally.

IPMAN is working seriously to ensure that the proposed $3 billion refineries in Kogi and Bayelsa states come on stream by 2016 to

By Emeka Ugwuanyi

reduce refining outside the country.

“We are proposing to build two refineries in Nigeria; one in Bayelsa State and another in Kogi State to ease fuel scarcity. This is part of the present administration’s agenda. We are in discussion with our foreign investors.

“We will ensure that petroleum products get to all nooks and crannies of the country. It will also grow the GDP of the country because capital flight will reduce drastically. Nigeria spends $60 billion in importing refined products, the proposed refineries will reduce the cost and stress of exporting crude to bring in refined products.”

He said that when the refineries come on stream it would continue to build and maintain healthy products reserves for the country. It will also create jobs for Nigerian youths.

It will also reduce incessant kidnapping in the country, he added.

Okoronkwo stated that the proposed refineries would go a long way in opening up the socio-economic growth of the country, which would also key into the transformation agenda of President Goodluck Jonathan.

He said that Nigeria, Africa’s larg-

est crude oil producer, is unarguably the biggest importer of refined petroleum products in the continent, creating lucrative market for refineries in Europe and the United States.

He expressed confidence that the refineries hold enormous economic benefits for the states where they will be located and entire Nigeria. For instance, there is no way we can put down over $3billion without making sure that the refineries work.

The newly elected vice-chairman, western zone of IPMAN, Alhaji Debo Ahmed, lauded government’s effort in combating pipeline vandalism. He assured members of total support in ensuring effective monitoring and distribution of petroleum products. He urged members to embrace peace and support one another in moving the association forward, adding that internal wrangling will not help the collective interest of the association.

“I will ensure that the integrity and harmonisation of members become paramount. I’m going to work with my zonal chairman and national executives to find lasting solution to challenges in products availability and distribution within the western zone,” he said.

Reform too early to be assessed, says MAN

I

T is too early to assess the power sector reform, the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), has said Its Chairman, Infrastructure Committee, Reginald Odiah, told The Nation that the body wants to observe the unfolding situation before passing judgment on issues relating to the power sector reforms.

He said: “As regard the issue of privatisation of the Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN), it is a good development in the history of Nigeria’s energy sector. The idea is aimed at repositioning the sector for growth to enable it compete with others in the emerging economies.

“Though we believe that the National Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) is competent to regulate the sector and further make it work, we are still studying the situation. We want to see how the whole thing plays out before stating our position on the matter.”

Odiah said the body presently

‘Infrastructure deficit inhibits growth in gas sector’

I

NADEQUATE infrastructural facilities such as pipelines, pressure station, and Central Processing Unit (CPUs), is hindering the growth of the gas sector, the President, Liquefied Petroleum Gas Association of Nigeria (LPGAN), Mr. Dayo Adesina, has said.

Other challenges, he said, include lack of gas stripping plants and effective regulatory mechanisms, among others.

Adesina said the problems are ineffective utilisation of gas, which makes it impossible for critical sectors of the economy to access the product for growth. He said the country is finding it difficult to take the gas to where it is needed, processed and used to achieve the desired results. He lamented that Nigeria is flaring gas without considering its socio-economic implications.

He said: “The country is flaring

By Akinola Ajibade

millions of metric tonnes of gas daily, because there is no infrastructure in place to capture it for productive usage. And to take the gas to where it is needed, the government has not done much in that regard. Facilities such as Central Processing Units (CPUs), gas stripping plants, pressure stations and others are lacking in the country.

What is considered a waste in the gas sector can be turned around and be useful in other sectors, if there are adequate infrastructural facilities in place.”

According to him, the gas being flared can power the whole of Africa, if the right policies are in place.

Also, the Director-General, Bureau of Public Enterprise (BPE), Benjamin Dikki in an interview with The Nation, said gas shortage has affected the operation of the

power sector. Dikki said infrastructural deficit in the gas industry is having spillover effects in the power sector. “Instead of wasting gas by flaring it, we can channel it to the power sector. Due to gas shortage, the power sector cannot generate enough electricity. We are producing less than 6,000MW of electricity. We are hovering between 4,000MW to 5,000MW of electricity; when we are supposed to generate 10,000MW.We have been targetting 10,000MW for some time now and we are yet to achieve it.

The Minister of Petroleum Resources, Mrs. Diezani AlisonMadueke, and her counterpart in the Power Ministry, Prof. Chinedu Nebo, the Group Managing Director, Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), and other relevant stakeholders had in Abuja, discussed how to make gas available to the power sector.

generates about 550 megawatts (Mw) of power in the three out of its eight delineated industrial clusters.

He said the association grouped the country into eight industrial clusters, out of which three were picked for the location of power plants after careful appraisal of developments. He said the three clusters located in Ota/ Abeokuta axis of Ogun State have functional power plants, adding that the Ota/Abeokuta axis was chosen because of its relatively huge concentration of industries.

“We are looking at areas with high concentration of industries and after necessary investigations, we arrived at a decision to choose Ota/ Abeokuta axis. Besides, we discovered that the cost implication of having power plants in the area is not much compared to others. In the three industrial clusters located in the Ota/ Abeokuta axis, we have three power plants with an output of 550Mw,” he added.

Body faults NCP, BPE on power sector privatisation

T

HE Senior Staff Association of Electricity Workers and Allied Companies (SSAEAC) has faulted the privatisation of the power sector by the National Council on Privatisation (NCP) and the Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE) ,picking holes in their claims of carrying out due diligence on the new power investors’ financial and technical capabilities.

Speaking to The Nation, the General Secretary of Association, Abiodun Ogunsegha said the claims were false and misleading, in view of the financial and technical problems being experienced in the sector and the poor electricity supply across the country.

He said: “Had it been that NPC and BPE conducted a thorough financial and technical due diligence on the investors, they would know that many investors are not financially prepared for the electricity business. Many are struggling to pay back the banks that gave them loans to purchase the assets of Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN). Some of the distribution firms cannot provide money to carry repairs of facility because they could not generate enough revenue.

“Many investors are technically deficient. They do not have deep knowl-

T •Refinery

By Akinola Ajibade

By Akinola Ajibade

edge of operations of the sector. They were not properly advised on the issue of technical partners needed for growth. They thought they would recoup their money within three months. However, events and circumstances have proved them wrong.”

Ogunsegha said the sector is suffering because the investors are not ready to commit additional funds. He said it is illogical for investors to use money realised from other business to finance the loans, adding that the sector would continue to suffer.

According to him, the pre and postprivatisation mistakes committed by the BPE and NCP have culminated in the problems facing the sector. He said consumers are protesting because they could not get regular power, adding that protests would not stop until there is improvement in electricity supply.

However, the BPE’s spokesman, Joe Anichebe said the allegations that proper due diligence was not carried out on the bidders were not true.

Anichebe said the bodies consulted on wide range of issues before taking decisions, noting that they spent months in examining the bidders’ proposals.

OPEC on diplomatic visits over oil price concerns

HE Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) producers are stepping up their diplomatic visits before the group’s meeting next week, potentially seeking a consensus on how to react to oil prices that have plunged to a four-year low.

According to Bloomberg quoting the official Saudi Press Agency, Libyan Prime Minister Abdullah alThani flew to Riyadh at the weekend just as Iraqi President Fouad Masoum left the kingdom after a two-day visit where he met with King Abdullah, and Venezuela’s foreign minister and representative to OPEC, Rafael Ramirez held talks in Qatar as Saudi Arabian Oil Minister Ali Al-Naimi tours Latin America.

The Saudis will not walk the road alone, they want to see everyone share the burden with them,” Kuwait-based analyst Kamel alHarami said by phone. Saudi Arabia, the world’s biggest oil exporter, is trying to build consensus among fellow members of the OPEC before they meet on November 27 in Vienna, Austria.

Brent crude extended losses below $80 a barrel, dropping to a four-year low amid signs that OPEC’s biggest members will refrain from reducing output to ease a supply glut. WTI

settled at $77.18 last week, the lowest close since October 2011.

Falling oil prices are straining state budgets among OPEC members, including Iraq’s government, which is leading a costly war against Islamist militants, and Libya that is struggling to keep crude output steady amid political divisions and violence.

Saudi Arabia remains committed to seeking a stable oil price and speculation of a battle between crude producers has no basis, AlNaimi said in Mexico after a visit to Venezuela.

OPEC members Libya, Venezuela and Ecuador have called for action to prevent crude from falling further. Libya’s OPEC governor Samir Kamal said last month that the group must cut daily output by 500,000 barrels as the market is oversupplied by about 1 million barrels a day.

Venezuela’s Ramirez discussed crude prices and stability of oil markets with Qatar’s Prime Minister Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani and Energy Minister Mohammed Bin Saleh Al Sada in Doha as part of a tour of oil-producing countries, Venezuela’s foreign ministry said in statement on website. Ramirez had visited Algeria, and is scheduled to travel to Iran and Russia, the ministry said.

THE NATION TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2014

50

THE NATION

BUSINESS PROPERTY/ENVIRONMENT

* The Environment * Mortgage * Apartments * Security * Homes * Real Estate Website:- http://www.thenationonlineng.com 08062722507

property@thenationonlineng.net muyiwalucas2002@yahoo.com

The Federal Government’s desire to tackle the estimated 17 million housing deficit in the country may be laudable.

However, a key player in achieving this dream is the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria, whose operational efficiency remains stunted by its capital base.

MUYIWA LUCAS writes.

W

HEN in 1956, the Federal Government established the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN), the mandate was clearto ensure the provision of housing for the teeming populace of the country.

This is by way of providing mortgage finance assistance to Nigerians desirous of such support. But the apex mortgage financial institution, which has undergone several metamorphosis between 1956 and now, may not have been able to deliver fully on its mandate, irrespective of its desires.

Now, following the Federal Government’s desire to build one million housing units annually, a ray of hope may have been rekindled. At various times, promises have been made by the government, where it always makes pledges to revolutionalise the sector by translating the National Housing Policy and National Urban Development Policy into a road map for housing development. Generally, delivering on these promises is believed to rest mainly on the FMBN, given its mandate.

This is because the mortgage bank, from inception, is expected to play a pivotal role in developing a robust mortgage finance system for the country.

With a mandate that among others, include promoting the growth of primary mortgage institutions to service the need of those desiring such services, through the mobilisation of both domestic and offshore funds into the housing sector; linking the capital market with the housing industry, establishing and operating a viable secondary mortgage market to support the primary mortgage market and collecting and administering the National Housing Fund (NHF) in accordance with the provisions of the NHF Act, the FMBN, as it were, has been an onerous task before it to date.

Although the bank may have achieved some feat, checks revealed that inadequate funding has remained an albatross for the mortgage lenders.

Besides, experts in the industry are of the opinion that the lack of recapitalisation and proper corporate governance, have also hampered the efficiency of the bank.

For instance, the FMBN presently has a share capital of N5 billion. This figure, however, appears to be on paper.

This is because, of this amount, only the

•FMBN office complex, Abuja

FMBN: Stunted by financial inadequacies Federal Government has fully paid up its own share of N2.5 billion.

Other contributors to the fund such as the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the National Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF) have not paid their 30 and 20 per cent shares respectively. This situation has led to the gross undercapitalisation of the mortgage bank, thereby making achieving its task, vey daunting.

Besides, considering the volume of the cost requirement in providing houses for the majority of the population, which is put at about 160 million, the current share capital, if fully paid up, would remain a drop in the ocean for the lofty plans the government has for the housing sector.

It is, therefore, not surprising that stakeholders in the industry have called for an upward review of the share capital for the FMBN. One man that has advocated for this, is the Managing Director of the bank, Gimba Yau Kumo, who has urged the government to increase FMBN share capital to N200 billion from its present N5 billion.

“We urge the Federal Government to increase the share capital of the FMBN from its present N5 billion to N200 billion to enable the bank address the housing deficit in the country, because addressing the over 17 million housing deficit in the country would require aggressive injection of funds by the

Federal Government,’’ he said.

But notwithstanding its limitation, particularly that of the housing deficit, the apex mortgage bank initiated projects, which have delivered about 53,000 houses through the NHF, as well as launching of the housing scheme for the informal sector, and the Estate Development Guarantee (EDG) scheme, amongst others. These initiatives, coupled with its appeal to recapitalise, are set to place the industry on a new pedestal.

For instance, with the informal sector’s Cooperative Society Loan Scheme, Kumo explained that operators such as farmers, traders and artisans would be able to tap into the benefit from the National Housing Scheme, like those in the formal sector. ‘’The mortgage industry in Nigeria is just starting. If you look at the size of our contribution to the GDP, it is less than one per cent, but my target before I leave here, is that we should be able to contribute at least 15 per cent. That is why we are putting a lot of issues on ground to be able to drive this process.

“And how do you do that? If you look at the NHF that we are managing, out of the 170 million population, less than one per cent are the ones contributing.

So, we said this is not good enough.

How do we reach the other segments of the society that are not in formal employment?” he queried.

Explaining the reason for the establishment of the scheme, Kumo observed that people in the lowest strata of the society have not benefited from

housing loans, because they have limited capacity to pay for houses, as the income they generate is very small.

This, he further said, led to the introduction of the Cooperative Loan Scheme, which according to him, was brought about to extend the bank’s services to people who can be deemed as “disadvantaged” in the society because of their low income level, which may be irregular and difficult to access under the NHF loan window.

Therefore, he said, the FMBN, under the scheme, is now using cooperative societies to benefit a certain group of people operating in the informal sector category, especially because of the nature and structure of their income, which is not definite or regular.

“The loan enables a cooperative society that has acquired a plot of land to develop houses for allocation to its members. The parcel of land would have title in the name of the society which would act as facilitator on behalf of its members in the loan transaction and facilitate construction of the housing units. The root of the title of the estate land would be sublease to the beneficiaries,’’ Kumo explained.

While the various strides by the agency may not have met all the expectations of stakeholders, majority of stakeholders are of the view that going by the steps taken

‘We urge the Federal Government to increase the share capital of the FMBN from its present N5 billion to N200 billion to enable the bank address the housing deficit in the country, because addressing the over 17 million housing deficit in the country would require aggressive injection of funds by the Federal Government’

so far, a bright future lay ahead of the industry. They expressed confidence that the FMBN has done well with its schemes and only needs some propping to deliver greater benefits to the people.

The Managing Partner of Havillah Shelter, Mr. Isaiah Dualong, shared this view. According to him, if the policies initiated in this dispensation are well executed, the mortgage challenge in the country would have been greatly surmounted. “It is quite promising that we have seen programmes, which if fully implemented, would provide answers to the various housing questions in Nigeria. I am not in doubt that they are not on the right path. All we demand is for the Federal Government to keep faith with FMBN. Policy somersaults would not be in the interest of the good policies that have been put in place in the sector,’’ he warned.

Similarly, the managing director of Chiekwena Homes, Chief Chike Chiekwena, observed that there is a new direction for the FMBN and the nation’s mortgage sector, adding that there is need for a comprehensive database for generating statistics. He said responsible government does not joke with its mortgage sector. He therefore, said there was huge relief when the government expressed seriousness about reinventing the sector.

“So far, there are prospects and they are doing well. However, there has to be incentives and necessary legal and regulatory environment to attract public-private partnerships in mass housing development,’’ he noted.

Other efforts by the FMBN include a mass housing scheme under the “rent-to-own” option for workers.

Experts say if this is purposefully pursued, it will increase the number of completed mortgages from the current 20,000 housing units to more than 200,000 units in three years.

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PROPERTY/ENVIRONMENT

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Fed Govt upgrades GGW/PIU

HE Federal Government has upgraded the Great Green Wall/ Programme Implementation Unit GGW/ PIU into an agency. The agency, which is now The National Agency on Great Green Wall (NAGGW), was approved by the President to address the challenges of Desertification in the Northern parts of the country.

At the official handing over in Abuja, the Chief Executive Officer of the agency, Goni Ahmed, said President Goodluck Jonathan saw the need to upgrade the unit because he is passionate about environmental issues. According to him, environmental issues are major issues in the Northern part of Nigeria that affect both economic and social activities of the people leading to abject poverty. He advised the staff to re

•Inagbe Grand Resort and Leisure... first of its kind in Lagos.

Nigeria’s first Underwater Lounge berths

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N estate development firm, Gran Imperio Group, through its subsidiary, Gran Imperio Resorts Limited, has said that it is developing a first of its kind resort on over three million square-meter land within a 100 kilometer stretch Island along the Atlantic Ocean, in Lagos.

The resort, known as the Inagbe Grand Resorts and Leisure, is located just a few minutes from Victoria Island, and within a community rich in culture and history of ancient Lagos Monarchy.

According to the managing director of Gran Imperio Group, Mr. Adeyeye Ogunwusi, the resort is the first of its kind in Lagos, with a potential of being one of the most attractive tourist centres in the megacity, which offers guests a unique benefit to experience in-

Stories by Muyiwa Lucas

triguing views of the brilliant landscaped gardens complemented with fountains and the Lagos Lagoon direct from inside their suites. “Nestled between the Lagos Lagoon and the magnificent Atlantic Ocean, Inagbe Grand Resorts & Leisure provides exquisite scenic views of both abundant water bodies. Coupled with its clean skies and adoring sandy beaches, it is referred to as one of the most tranquil locations on the Lagos Island for vacation and relaxation,” he said.

The first phase of the Inagbe Grand Resort and Leisure is, located on a 90-hectare land out of its total 300-hectares.

Ogunwusi assured that the

Resort, which is not too far from the Snake Island, will ultimately look like a snatch of Vegas in Lagos, but with a cultural twist that brings the Nigerian tradition to the forefront, especially given the traditional ambiance of its thatched roof and coconut souvenir factory that adorn the environment.

Other features in the Inagbe Grand Resort and Leisure includes a five star hotel service; 650 kilometre floating platform for social outdoor activities; 18- hole golf course; four chalet rooms with Jacuzzi; Beach buggers for racing; paint ball shooting; common living room for guests with wide expanse area; swimming pools, productive machines to sustain the luxurious need of guests. This exotic resort also offers various membership schemes for both individuals and corporate bodies.

Engineers set tone for safe building, enviroment

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HE proper use of cement for the production of concrete will provide a lasting solution to the incidence of building collapse.

This is the submission by the Nigerian Institution of Structural Engineers (NIStructE) at its just concluded 27th Annual Conference and General Meeting at the Sheraton Hotel, Lagos. The theme of the conference was “The Effect of Cement Strength on Concrete Performance.” Cement forms the predominant structural material in the low/medium rise zone of the Built Environment, where the incidence of building collapse is most prevalent in Nigeria, For the prevention of the loss of lives and the colossal wastage of resources associated with incidence of building collapse recommendations were made at the end of the conference to address the situation.

They included the government backing of competent and qualified practice of structural engineering by legislation. This, according to them, would enable professionals into design and superintend construction of structures, which buildings are just an aspect, for their integrity, good performance, safety and comfort of the users.

They also recommended that

structural design and supervision of structures should only be handled by competent and qualified professional structural engineers.

Importantly, stakeholders at the conference recommended that the checking and approval of buildings for construction should be done by, or under the supervision of a competent and qualified structural engineer in the office of the relevant approving authorities.

They equally recommended that construction of buildings should be handled by a team of competent technical personnel, one of whom must be a structural engineer to ensure the integrity and efficiency of the structure throughout its life span.

The body noted that concrete forms the main component of any reinforced structure and cement is the binder of the concrete components. “Therefore, for good properties and performance of concrete, the quality of the cement used for the production of the concrete must be such as to produce the designer’s specified strength of concrete,” it said.

On the issue of suitability of cement grade for specific jobs, stakeholders at the conference

agreed that a structural engineer is in the best position to specify the best grade of cement necessary to meet his design specifications.

They, therefore, canvassed for more emphasis on the manufacturing process of cement for concrete to ensure that they meet international or country standards, irrespective of their grades by the regulating authorities.

NIStructE then urged the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) to effectively enforce the production of High Yield and Mild Steel rods with characteristic strengths of 460N/mm2 and 250N/mm2 respectively, of appropriate sizes.

SON, it further recommended, should compel all steel manufacturers to clearly label their products by size and Yield Strength and issue certificates of quality assurance on every consignment.

Earlier, NIStructE national President, Samuel Ilugbekhai, an engineer, had warned against the use of beach sand, especially in Lagos, for block making and construction of buildings.

This, according to him, is because of the negative effect of salt (short and long term) on reinforcement and other components of concrete.

He advised that only clean and potable water should be used for the production of concrete to avoid chemical impurities, which have adverse effects on the concrete.

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From Frank Ikpefan, Abuja

dedicate themselves to the task ahead with a view to realising the expectation of President Jonathan and his transformation agenda.

In his remarks, Dr. Bukar Hassan, the Director, Drought and Desertification Amelioration (DDA), who was also the immediate Head of the (GGW/ PIU), thanked the Federal Government for upgrading the unit to a full-fledged agency.

He said the PIU which operated under the Federal Ministry of Environment was managed by the Drought and Desertification Amelioration Department (DDA) to curb the menace of desertification. Hassan thanked the workers for the cooperation accorded him and wished the new Accounting Officer/CEO success in his endeavours.

NITP set to eliminate quacks, unethical practices

HE Nigerian Institute of Town Planners (NITP) has stated that it will wield the big stick on any member for unprofessional practice.

This was made known by the Institute at its 45th Annual Conference and General Meeting. The body also used the occasion to induct 115 new town planners into its fold.

The immediate past president of the institute, Mr Steve Onu, also used the occasion to make a charge on his colleagues to eschew unprofessional acts which he said were capable of tarnishing not only their reputation but that of other professionals as well.

“It doesn’t matter whether you got into this profession by accident, I also did too, but still I was able to rise to the position of the National President. Therefore, the sky is your limit, and as long as you professionalise and internalise what you’ve learnt, you will also make a success of this profession,” he declared.

Other town planners at the event also called on the new professionals to choose the path of integrity, and keep at arms’ length any negative tendency and desperation for instant gratification.

Onu listed some of the basic ‘ingredients’ that will help produce a successful town planner

to include integrity, fairness, delayed gratification, professionalism, commitment to duty, not giving room for intimidation, especially from other professionals in the built environment, among others.

In the meantime, when reeling out some of his programmes for the new administration, the new National President, Mr Olomola, said his administration would be working towards improving job creation for town planners, especially by working with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) for the introduction of Land Use Planning Report, which he said the apex bank would be expected to buy into with a view to making it a condition for the opening of any corporate accounts. He said the report would also prove useful in the processing and eventual issuance of C-of-Os for lands.

He also added that his administration would also work towards completing and putting into good use, the institute’s assets - the Franklin Akinyemi and the Iba Buhari House - in Lagos and Abuja, respectively, among other ideas, which he believes, will help to move the institute forward.

The AGM also saw to the election of new leaders who will be expected to hold key offices in the institution over the next two years.

Broll Nigeria appoints new CEO

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ROLL Property Services Nigeria, the country’s leading Property Services Company, has appointed Mr. Bolaji Edu as its new Chief Executive Officer. The appointment takes effect from October 2014. Mr. Edu takes over from erstwhile CEO, Mrs. Erejuwa Gbadebo, and will have overall responsibility for Broll’s operations in Nigeria.

Mr.Edu, who holds a degree in Economics and Business Economics from the University of Hull, UK, and is a member of the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors. He brings a wealth of international industry experience to the company.

Commenting on the appointment, Leonard Michau – Director and Head of West Africa Operations for Broll said: “We welcome Bolaji to our team. His over 18 years’ experience in the real estate market is invaluable and we are confident he will

make a significant contribution in continuing to build our presence in Nigeria. Our ability to attract a real estate executive with his record and knowledge reflects Broll’s potential for continued strong growth. We look forward to his leadership in driving and executing on the strategies that will allow Broll to further enhance its position in the industry.”

Edu expressed joy on the appointment. “I am thrilled and honoured to be the new CEO at Broll Nigeria. Broll Nigeria is a real estate services firm in Nigeria with over 130 property practitioners in Nigeria and asset under management of $6.4 billion,” he said, adding that his plan is to make Broll Nigeria recognised as the market leader not just in Retail Mall management but in all the other service areas.

The company will be celebrating its 10 years of operation in Nigeria in November 2014.

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NEWS

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Suspected insurgent lynched in Bauchi

NGRY youths in Azare, the town where a suicide bomber killed several residents last Sunday in Bauchi State, have lynched a suspected insurgent.

The bomb rocked a busy phone market, Kasuwan Jagol in Azare, in Katagum Local Government Area.

Police spokesman, Haruna Mohammed, a Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP), said the suspected insurgent was lynched to death by mob.

Adamawa APC adopts Atiku as presidential candidate

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•Yuguda condemns Azare blast

From Austine Tsenzughul, Bauchi

As of last night, the police spokesman confirmed 13 dead and 65 injured.

Of those injured, he said 43 had been treated and discharged and 22 others were responding to treatment.

He added that the police explosive ordinance disposal unit had visited the scene of the blast and

cordoned it off.

According to him, the casualties were evacuated to the Federal Medical Centre in Azare for treatment.

Mohammed said normalcy had been restored in the town through a combined security forces and patrols.

House of Assembly Minority Leader Suleiman Baba has berated the Federal Government for allowing insecurity to persist in the area.

The lawmaker noted that there had been three explosions in the area in one month.

He said: “Twelve were killed and 64 were injured in Azare blast in what was suspected to have been carried out by a female suicide bomber. It’s unacceptable.

Triple bombs within a month show the failure of leadership.”

Bauchi State Governor Isa Yuguda has condemned the Sunday night bombing at Azare.

The governor described the attack as most unfortunate.

He hailed the youths, who arrested one of the suspected suicide bombers, for their courage.

In a statement yesterday by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Ishola Michael Adeyemi, the governor

•Yuguda

assured that his administration would partner security agencies to protect lives and property of the residents.

He urged the people to compliment his administration’s efforts in the fight against insurgency.

The victims of the blast are on admission at Azare Medical Centre.

The Chief Medical Director (CMD), Dr. Abduallhi Ibrahim, told reporters that the hospital recorded 17 deaths, adding that 30 other victims of the blast were on admission.

Giving the breakdown of the causality figure, Dr. Ibrahim said of the 17 who died in the hospital, 14 were victims of the explosion and three others were suspected suicide bombers.

The CMD said doctors and nurses defied the Joint Health Workers Union’s strike to attend to the victims.

He said the patients were responding to treatment.

NGO: over 132 Borno, Adamawa families in Jos IDPs’ camp

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VER 700 former residents of Adamawa, Borno and Yobe states, comprising 132 families, are at Internally displaced persons’(IDPs’) camps in Jos, the Plateau State capital.

This followed the attacks on their homes in the Northeast by Boko Haram insurgents.

The home towns of the displaced families had been taken over by the sect and declared Islamic territories.

Most of those at the Jos camps were from Gwoza, Mubi, Uba, Michika and Yola.

The IDPs are being hosted at a Jos-based non-governmental organisation (NGO), Stefanos Foundation, at Zawan Secondary School, Bukuru, Jos South Local Government Area of Plateau State.

In a statement yesterday in Jos, the Plateau State capital, the

From Yusufu Aminu Idegu, Jos

NGO’s Programme Coordinator Mark Lipdo said many of the IDPs had horrifying experiences on how they escaped from their homes and farms.

Lipdo said: “Many of the IDPs had to escape from their farms without the privilege of returning home when they learnt that their towns had been taken over by insurgents.

“A few women gave birth in the bush while looking for ways to escape the horror.

“A lot of them are beginning to ask if government still regards them as Nigerians, especially as the Federal Government is quick to respond to conflicts in other countries but is seemingly unable to curb the insurgency in few states within its domain.”

APC forum drums support for senatorial aspirant

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forum, under the aegis of the All Progressives Party (APC) in Oyo State, Outer City Forum, with members in Akinyele, Lagelu, Egbeda, Ona-Ara, Oluyole and Ido local government areas of Oyo State, has called for support for Tunde Oyewo, a Senior Special Assistant to Governor Abiola Ajimobi on YES ‘O’ Cadet.

Oyewo is seeking support as a Senator to represent Oyo Central under the plat form of All Progressive Party (APC) in Oyo State.

The leader of the forum Elder Samuel Olaoye de-

From Tayo Johnson, Ibadan

scribed the late father of Oyewo as one of a reputable leaders and a cheerful giver, who contributed to the welfare of the people in the constituency.

Olaoye urged the elders and party faithful to rally round Oyewo, who he described as a straight forward and dedicated politician.

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•‘Door still open to others’

HE Adamawa State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has adopted former Vice President Atiku Abubakar as the party’s presidential candidate ahead of the primaries.

But the chapter said its doors were open to other aspirants interested in campaigning in the state.

State Chairman Binta Garba told reporters in Abuja that alhough the state chapter adopted Atiku, it was not closing its door to other aspirants.

She dismissed the consensus option in the selection of the party’s presidential candidate, saying it was not

From Tony Akowe, Abuja

democratic too do so.

The party chair stressed that if the aspirants, who had collected the party’s nomination form agreed on consensus, there was nothing the party could do about it.

She said the idea of allowing the aspirants to go for the primaries was to allow for a levelplaying field for all.

Garba said: “Anyone that lost out at the primaries will not say that he was not given a chance by the party. Even the laws setting up INEC stipulate that if you have more than one candidate, you must go for an election.”

Ex-Kwara governor, don knock Sola Saraki’s critics

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PROFESSOR of Political Science, Hassan Salihu, and former Kwara State Governor Bukola Saraki, lashed out yesterday at critics of the leadership style of the late Senator Olusola Saraki.

The duo also knocked the late politician’s critics for their inability to offer anything different from what the late Saraki did for his people.

They challenged those opposed to the late Oloye to “stop abusing the dead” and come up with a workable alternative model that is different from the late politician’s style.

Both men spoke at the second Distinguished Commemorative Colloquium for the late strongman of Kwara politics, organised by the national secretariat of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) in collaboration with the state council of the union.

Salihu, in a lecture, titled: Towards A New Development Agenda for Kwara State Beyond 2015, challenged politicians to “sit down and engage in serious analysis of the political environment prevailing in the country and come out with concrete achievable and forward -looking approaches to register Kwara State more as a progressive and successful state in the country”.

The don said the late Oloye operated within the prevailing situation of his environment, adding that it would be unfair

From Adekunle Jimoh, Ilorin

to use the modern political scenario to judge him.

Bukola Saraki, the heir apparent of the Saraki dynasty, also challenged critics of his father’s style of politics to suggest an alternative model.

The senator said his late father “was one of those who believed in one Nigeria” without giving preference to political, ethnic or religious differences.

He said his father stood for humility, generosity and selfless services, which he said public service meant.

Making an inference from Prof. Salihu’s paper, where he described some politicians who surfaced few months to elections as “electoral politicians,” Saraki said such people are “dishonest and selfish” and would not bring development to the society.

Governor Abdulfatah Ahmed, who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Alhaji Isiaka Gold, said the late Oloye rendered “extraordinary personal service” and impacted positively on his community by embarking on personal projects that improved the well-being of his people.

NUJ National President Garba Muhammed, who was represented by the union’s Senior National Assistant Secretary Gbenga Bamidele, said the late strongman of Kwara politics “exhibited rare traits of a statesman, an icon, a sage and a philanthropist”.

‘35 of 1,000 newborn die in Kwara’ •Kwara has less than 12 paediatrics nurses

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HIRTY-FIVE out of 1,000 new babies die in Kwara State, the President of the National Association of Nigeria Paediatrics Nurses (NANPAN), Mrs Bunmi Lawal, has said.

The expert said the state had less than 12 paediatrics nurses in its employ.

Mrs. Lawal spoke yesterday in Ilorin, the state capital, at this year’s National Paediatrics Nursing Conference and 2014 World Prematurity Day with the theme:

From Adekunle Jimoh, Ilorin

Curbing Newborn death in Nigeria: A Mandate To All. She said: “The implication of this shortage of paediatrics nurses on the mortality rate on the newborn is very grave.

Paediatrics nurses are specially trained to take care of the newborn.

“We want to use this opportunity to appeal to the state government to reconsider supporting nurses to go for paediatrics nursing programmes in the state.”

‘Kano voters may be disenfranchised’

HE extension of the continuous voter registration (CVR) in Kano State may still run into hitches, it was observed yesterday.

Most of the prospective voters in the state may be disenfranchised, if the errors noticed are not corrected.

Our reporter, who monitored the registration in the

From Kolade Adeyemi, Kano

metropolis, noted that prospective voters could not be registered in most of the polling units.

There was a shortfall in Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) manpower, which caused a long delay in most areas.

At Tarauni O1 Unit, which

recorded a large turnout, especially of women, most of the people were not registered because of late arrival of materials.

An 81-year old women, Hasiya Ahmad, who left her home at Farawa Quarters to register, could not be registered because only three INEC workers were at the unit to register hundreds of people.

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NEWS Anger as 7 PDP lawmakers endorse Fayose’s nominees Continued from page 4

We conducted a valid sittingPDP caucus Speaking with reporters shortly after the “sitting”, Ajibola denied that three unidentified persons joined the seven PDP lawmakers, adding that 10 lawmakers sat – a figure he described as greater than needed to form a quorum.

“The quorum is nine and we had 10 members who attended the sitting. That shows that we formed a quorum. We don’t have PDP or APC in the House; we are all members of the Ekiti State House of Assembly.

“We make laws here and we treat issues brought before us in the overall interest of the people.

“The Deputy Speaker is on the field campaigning and Mr. Speaker is in Lagos for a party meeting.

“Section 27 of the Standing Order gives us the power to elect a protem speaker from among ourselves if the speaker and the deputy speaker are not around.

“The law permits us to do so and what transpired today was a normal procedure.”

Sitting, an outright illegality-APC caucus The 19 APC lawmakers declared the sitting as an illegality, which violates the provisions of the Constitution and the House Standing Order.

Speaking with The Nation on telephone, the Majority Leader, Churchill Adedipe, challenged the PDP lawmakers to identify the three individuals who posed as “honourable members”.

Adedipe maintained that the 26-member parliament comprises 19 APC members and seven PDP members, wondering where the ruling party “recruited three thugs” to sit in the House in a “desperate bid to reach the quorum of nine”.

Adedipe said the House does not hold plenary on Mondays, maintaining that anything done in the hallowed chamber by PDP lawmakers and the three impostors was an exercise in futility.

He likened the “sitting” to what took place during the tenure of the Third Assembly when some PDP lawmakers who did not form a quorum conducted a “sitting at dawn”

to screen and ratify nominees for the State Independent Electoral Commission (S.I.E.C).

Adedipe recalled that the illegality was later nullified by the State High Court, expressing confidence that the latest illegality will not stand the test of time as his party would challenge it.

The majority leader also revealed that chairmen and members of caretaker committees in the 16 local government areas and 19 Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) have filed a suit challenging their dissolution by Fayose, wondering why the PDP-led government couldn’t wait for the determination of the case before constituting new ones.

Adedipe argued that it was in the Standing Order of the House that members should stay action on any issue that is before a court of competent jurisdiction.

The Majority Leader, who represents Irepodun/Ifelodun 1 Constituency, said the action of Fayose and the PDP lawmakers was an attempt to foist a fait accompli on the court of law and a contemptuous breach of the 1999 Constitution.

APC raises alarm over PDP-instigated impunity

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VER 200 policemen could not have been deployed for this illegal act in Ekiti without the knowledge of the Inspector General of Police. Yet, the same IG trampled the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria by assuming the powers of the court to unilaterally withdraw the security detail of House of Representatives Speaker Aminu Tambuwal.

“Can the IG claim not to be aware that his men are offering protection to only seven out of the 26 members of the Ekiti House of Assembly? Does he honestly believe it is part of the responsibility of the police, which is being funded by tax payers, to become the enforcement arm of the PDP? Does he

believe that the police that is empowered to enforce the law should play a lead role in breaking it?” the party queried.

It warned the “excitable and depthless” Governor Fayose not to throw the state into a needless crisis by his “trademark tomfoolery”.

The party warned that while a lot of unconstitutional and illegal activities have taken place under the PDP-led Federal Government, including the impeachment of then Governor Joshua Dariye of Plateau State by only eight of the 24 House of Assembly members, any decision taken by only seven PDP members in the 26-member Ekiti House of Assembly will not stand.

The party called on the PDP

and the Federal Government to stop instigating crisis in APCcontrolled states, saying the PDP-instigated crisis in the Edo State House of Assembly was yet to subside before the “anarchic” ruling party decided to pounce on Ekiti.

“No matter how long it takes, those who are willfully flouting the laws of the land and engaging in anti-democratic actions will come to justice.

“Nothing in the world will justify the subversion of the Constitution by anyone, especially those who are democratically-elected. We are, therefore, warning the puppeteers in Ekiti to put a leash on their dogs of war, and not to set Ekiti State ablaze over their narrow interests,” it said.

Speaker condemns illegality

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HE plan was foiled when it leaked. The second attempt was planned at Spotless Hotel owned by Governor Fayose where top members, both in Ekiti and outside Ekiti, met to plan what was carried out this morning.

“The governor did a follow-up with threats and coercion, including freezing the Assembly’s accounts, disrupting electricity supply to the Speaker’s Lodge and stopping statutory votes for the Speaker’s upkeep and protocol.”

The Speaker said though they did not succeed in changing the leadership of the House because they did not have the number, seven members that fell short of the required nine to form a quorum sat to illegally approve the reconstitution of the local government caretaker committees, in-

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cluding confirming the appointments of the commissioner-nominees, who were never screened as required by law.

Omirin said before the House can sit if the Speaker is not available, by law, majority members will write to the Speaker.

If approved, a speaker protempore is appointed to conduct the business of the day. Besides, Ekiti State House of Assembly does not sit for plenary on Mondays.

He added: “Monday, according to the House Standing Rule, is for the Parliamentary where reports by members from their constituencies are reviewed and agenda set for the week’s sittings.

“But, against the House’s rule , seven PDP members, led by armed policemen and thugs, bundled the Clerk of the Assembly to his office and at gun-point forcefully removed the mace

from his office to illegally conduct the plenary where they approved the reconstitution of the care-taker committees in the councils and confirmation of the commissioners.

“To demonstrate that police had interest and were actively involved in this constitutional breach, they used their trucks to block entrances to the Assembly Complex, preventing APC members who had businesses to do in the House from entering the place.

Electronics media were prevented from covering the sitting while selected print media reporters were allowed in.

“APC members are law-abiding and responsible Nigerians.

We have been playing our constitutional roles and we will continue doing that to lift Nigeria as a responsible member of the international community where the rule of law is supreme.”

Fayose sacks Speaker’s, others’ aides

KITI State Governor Ayo Fayose has sacked aides of the Speaker, Deputy Speaker and Majority Leader of the House of Assembly.

A statement by Secretary to the State Government Dr. Modupe Alade said: “The political office holders attached to the Speaker and Deputy Speaker in the House of As-

sembly are hereby relieved of their duties.

They are: •Wole Olujobi Special Adviser (Media) to the Speaker.

•Ojobamikan Dele - Special Adviser (Political) to the Speaker •Lawrence Awelewa Special Adviser (Special Duties) to the Speaker •Omirin Wande - Special

Assistant (Youth Matters) to the Speaker .

•Orija Samuel Chief of Staff to the Speaker •Sanmi Adeeko - Personal Assistant to the Speaker •Taiwo Oluwaleye - Special Assistant to the Deputy Speaker on Media Matters.

•Adedipe Esther - Special Assistant to the Majority Leader on Media Matters.

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NEWS Ekiti governor warns council caretaker members From Sulaiman Salawudeen, Ado-Ekiti

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•Former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi (right) and Chairman, Zenith Bank Dr. Jim Ovia at the launch of YouWin SMEs Growth Fund at the Banquet Hall, Presidential Villa, Abuja... yesterday

KITI State Governor Ayodele Fayose has threatened to sack any member of the newly constituted 16-member caretaker management committee if found derelict in discharging expectatins of his/her office.

Speaking in Adetiloye Hall, Trade Fair Complex, Ado-Ekiti, the state caital, yesterday, Fayose clarified he would not hesitate to remove any of the caretaker chairmen who “derail from the goals as stated in his five point agenda”.

Fayose urged the appointees to prioritise people’s welfare, saying they needed to ensure rapid transformation of the communities under their charge.

The Governor noted that the appointees had to work closely with the respective traditional rulers in their domains, as, accrding to him, the traditional heads were the custodians of their people.

The Governor also promised to retain the Vice Chancellor (VC) of the state owned Ekiti State University (EKSU), Prf. Patrick Aina and the Provost of the College of Education, Ikere-Ekiti, Prof. Frasisca Aladejana, as some groups had canvassed.

He urged the two heads of the state owned iInstitutions to maintain the trackreckord of good works which had endeared them to the hearts of the people.

In defending his composition of the caretaker committees, Fayose said “the APC members had no moral justification to query his action since Fayemi did similar thing when he came on board in 2010”.

Fayose’s words: “The APC are hypocrites. When l was in government in 2006, l put up elected council officials. Oni did his best by putting up elected council officials. But when Fayemi came in 2010, they went round the councils and beat up all the elected council officials. In the process, a life was lost, one Awolumate died.

“And Fayemi was in the saddle for 4 years. He never conducted any election at the local government”, he said.

Fayose also warned the civil servants to steer clear of politics in the state, saying they needed to choose between their jobs and politics.

Disclosing that the last administration did not settle the indebtedness on all the vehicles distributed free to monarchs and traditional rulers across the state and those given to the market women and other groups which he said summed to a total of N2.2 billion.

His words: “I want anybody that cares to investigate to find out that Fayemi failed to settle all the debts incurred on the cars distributed to our traditional rulers and those given out to the market women and other groups, the total sum of which is about N2.2 billion. The car dealers have been calling me over this debts for sometime now”.

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Fed. Govt urged to improve agric support

HE Federal Government has been urged to boost agricultural support to make the sector attractive to youths.

A firm, Funtuna Brands while unveiling its twopacked “giftable” eggs at Ogere-Remo, Ogun State, said that more agric support will make youths realise that white collar jobs were not attractive.

Funtuna’s Executive Director Mrs. Tolu Olamide stated that despite being the backbone of a sustainable economy, there are vacuums in the agriculture sector that urgently needed to be filled.

Noting that Nigerians have poor egg-eating culture, Mrs Olumide said an average person in the country eats 34 eggs per year, which she said, is a far cry from figures obtained in America (320) and Mexico (356).

She said the pack of two was propelled by people’s desire to have smaller pack guaranteed premium farm fresh eggs as souvenirs and gifts.

While extolling recent

By Precious Igbonwelundu

government’s policy on agriculture, Olumide urged government to pay more attention in the area of providing more financial supports and education to drive a new thinking among young people.

“Although it will not be right to say that government is neglecting agriculture in the country, things could get better if adequate supports are given in terms of financially and educationally.

“The youth need to know that acquiring proper knowledge on the practice and profitability of agriculture is the basis and not just jumping to establish farms thereby creating a vacuum that will affect them.

On Nigerians’ reliance on foreign products, Olumide said most ?people are wary of quality of goods produced in the country and that is why government should show more commitment.?

Council warns residents against indiscriminate refuse dumping From Tayo Johnson, Ibadan

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HE Caretaker Chairman of Akinyele Local Government, Oyo State Mr Ope Salami has threatened to sanction any resident or community caught dumping waste into drainage and road sides with the council.

Salami, who gave this warning at the weekend while kicking-off asphaltic laying and building of four roads within the council area, said dumping refuse indiscriminately makes the environment unhealthy for living.

He stated that it was wrong for anybody to channel waste into the drainage or dispose waste at the road sides.

“It has come to my notice that residence of Ojo, Moniya, Shasha doesn’t dispose their refused properly, and it’s very disheartening to note that the more the government is trying to clean the environment, the more some people are trying to sabotage it’s effort. We have waste disposals at strategic places but people doesn’t dispose waste properly into it.”

Salami lamented

•Chairman of the occasion, Chief Busura Alebiosu (second left) greeting the Iyaloja-General of Ikosi Isheri Local Government, Alhaja Iyabo Ahmed at the All Progressives Congress (APC) Empowerment for Kosofe, Ikosi-Isheri and Agboyi Ketu local govts by Senator Olugbenga Ashafa...yesterday. With them are Senator Ashafa (right); former Lagos House of Assembly PHOTO: MUYIWA HASSAN Speaker Jokotola Pelumi (left) and APC supporters.

PDP’s, Omisore’s call for more witnesses stalled

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HE Osun State Election Petition Tribunal will rule on Thursday in the application by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its candidate in the August 9 governorship election, Senator Iyiola Omisore, to move a motion to call additional witnesses.

Governor Rauf Aregbesola and other respondents, including the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), did not reply to the application.

At the continued hearing yesterday, the petitioners’ counsel, Chris Uche, told the tribunal that he had filed a motion to call additional witness, whom he described as expert.

Aregbesola’s counsel Segun Ajibola wondered why Uche was asking the tribunal to deny his client right to fair hearing on the application.

From Adesoji Adeniyi, Osogbo

He said he had seven days under the law to respond to the application before it could be taken by the tribunal.

APC’s counsel Kemi Pinheiro said it was unfortunate that the petitioners’ counsel was trying to deny him his right of reply.

INEC’s counsel Ayotunde Ogunleye said there was no need for urgency in the application, arguing that parties must be allowed to respond to the application.

The petitioners’ counsel and the tribunal chairman, Justice Elizabeth Ikpejime, appealed to the respondents to reduce the time they have to respond to the application.

The respondents’ counsels agreed to file their reply within four days instead of seven days and the tribunal fixed Thursday for the hear-

ing of the application.

Omisore and the PDP counsels continued tendering of Certified True Copies of form EC25B for Irepodun, Irewole, Iwo, Obokun, OlaOluwa, Olorunda, Oriade and Osogbo local governments with discrepancies.

The tribunal also deferred ruling on the admissibility of the purported duplicate of form EC8A tendered by the first witness of the petitioners, Bola Ajao, who is the PDP State Secretary, claiming that the results were submitted to him by the PDP agents.

MASSOB seeks release of 22 detained members

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HE movement for the Actualisation of the Sovereign State of Biafra (MASSOB), has split into two camps - the Chief Raph Uwazuruike group and the Progressives.

The splinter group is seeking the release of 22 members arrested and detained since seven years in Awka and Onitsha.

In a statement yesterday in Awka, the National Director of information in Progressive MASSOB, Comrade Uchenna

From Nwanosike Onu, Awka

Madu said of the detained members, two were females, while one was a cripple.

The statement said 15 of them needed serious medical attention, including the females and the cripple.

The group appealed to President Goodluck Jonathan and Anambra State Governor Willie Obiano, human Rights groups, Igbo leaders and civil society organisations to assist in their release.

THE NATION TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2014

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OPEN LETTER TO GOVERNOR GODSWILL AKPABIO

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That Threat to Persecute Me for 70 Years!

want to start with the Bible passage I have quoted in a previous epistle to you. It says: “When the godly are in authority, the people rejoice. But when the wicked are in power, they groan” Proverbs 29 vs. 2 (New Living Translation). While Akwa Ibom people labour under the weight of the burden of your misrule, you go about collecting bogus titles and awards. You forget the wise counsel that “being a leader doesn’t require a title; having a title doesn’t make you one.”

During a PDP caucus meeting at the outset of your administration you talked of Tropicana, Cinemas, flyovers and big-screen projects.

You told the PDP Caucus that the Tropicana/Galleria will cost N52 Billion. I had begged you to tow the line of former Governor U. J. Esuene and empower Akwa Ibom people through a Loan Board to review proposed projects and issue appropriate loans to enable the people to open their own businesses to reduce poverty.

You said ‘no’ that you would not do such thing. Your reasoning was that this will empower Akwa Ibom youths to use the money to buy fancy cars and carry women and show off. This you said in the presence of more than 40 PDP Caucus members, and 99% of them are still alive today and can testify to your statement.

Isn’t it true the Tropicana project has not been completed but more than N80 Billion has been paid out by your Uncommon Government?

Today, with your white elephant projects which you brandish for your insatiable quest for accolades and titles, aren’t Akwa Ibom people the poorest in Nigeria, even though their State is the richest?

Since 2010, you have unjustly subjected me to persecution over a trumped-up charge of ‘terrorism’. For almost five years now, you had subjected me to persecution, plotting to sustain the trial forever for your own personal aggrandizement. The charge was first before Hon. Justice Idongesit Ntem Isua, Chief Judge, Akwa Ibom State. On February 21, 2013, when the Prosecution was supposed to conclude its case, it had announced that the “prosecution cannot go on with the case because of the directive of the Attorney General to make application under section 41, 42 of the High Court Laws of Akwa Ibom State of Nigeria cap 55 Vol. 3, to transfer this matter to another judge for hearing and determination.”

This was because they saw their case collapsing. The lawyers implored the Court not to allow the Prosecution scandalize the Court and get away with it. The concern was that if the Chief Judge with her track record could face that sort of insult, which Judge in the State would be spared? My lawyers made a passionate plea for CJ Isua to disappoint the Prosecution and stay put. The CJ said that although she could not recall when a party asked for transfer from her court in her 21 years at the Bench, she nonetheless would as a matter of policy agree and not ask for reason so that there would be confidence.

The criminal case had to start afresh before Hon. Justice I. E. Ukanna. Presently you are the only witness listed to testify who is yet to testify. You are a key witness for the prosecution as the complainant in the case. Sadly, it would seem you are not in a haste to have the case closed. The Prosecutor, C. J. Udoh who is apparently under your instruction to secure my conviction at all costs or be sacked is obviously in a difficulty on how to achieve your directive when he knows that the SIM card allegedly used

to ‘terrorize’ you does not to the boy being accused of ‘terrorizing’ you.

On 13th June 2014, I was in your office with my lawyer following your invitation that I should come with my lawyer to explore amicable settlement in the civil case which I won against your government in Abak High Court. In attendance were your lawyer, Kanu Agabi, SAN, former Commissioner for Agriculture, Prof. Etok Ekanem, his successor Godwin Afangide, the former Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Ekpeyong Ntekim, and Solicitor-General Mrs. Umoren.

You kept me waiting for two hours. When you finally showed up, you kept going out and coming back, each time requesting that they bring your ‘walking stick’, which turned out to be a short elephant tusk which you shook and brandished while you talked.

I still wonder what all these mean. More than five times, you repeatedly said if you did me any wrong let God punish you and your generation and I repeatedly said amen! In all, I stayed 12 hours in your office without achieving anything while you played god throughout, while the real God was watching you, writing ‘mene, mene, tekel, urphasin’ on your wall. It was sad, you failed to see that writing on the wall!

When the issue of my persecution came up, you said you asked me to allow you enter a nolle prosequi and I turned it down. I had asked if you consulted me before arresting me. I recall your lawyer, Kanu Agabi, SAN, also told you that you didn’t need my permission to enter a nolle. I was shocked to hear you say that the case will go on for another 70 years. You said you would appoint the Judge to pioneer a special court and the case would start afresh before another Judge! That would be the third Judge! Is this not wickedness? What did I do to you to deserve this? Again, you said you had sacked some twenty lawyers from the Ministry of Justice, and they had gone to Court, but that their case would last for 70 years also! That day everything was 70 years!

Governor, if I may ask, where do you expect to be in the next 70 years? In the seat of Akwa Ibom State governor? At above 50, you would indeed turn to Methuselah to be around to be prosecuting me 70 years from today. I now understand why they say power corrupts! Do you realize that you will be gone as governor and forgotten in just 7 months’ time from now? Then the blood of all the victims of abuse of power in Akwa Ibom State under your administration will speak out. Then you would taste the bitter pill of being out of power.

It is by God’s grace that I am alive today. The evil orchestration to silence me was more sinister than the charge of ‘terrorism’ which you boasted will last for 70 years. At the count-down to the April 2011 elections, there was a plot to shoot me and blame it on kidnappers. A concerned person came to my house in Lagos to tip me off on a well designed plot to kill anybody capable of challenging you. I was top on the list. It was an assassination plot against me using cultists. Days later, Ini Udonwa, who would have been killed with me, was shot and his 62 year old mother kidnapped and violated for many days.

Lest I forget, I hear you want to go to the Senate. Please tell the whole world what you as Governor did for Ikono, Ini, Abak Division and Obot Akara, in terms of access roads and human development. Are you going to bring the people from outside the

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State who fly in every week to cart away billions of Naira from Akwa Ibom State treasury for your incurable ego-tripping, to vote for you? Or do you plan to rely only on the votes of the famed “Akpabio 5” to win? You should realize that the people are now wiser having seen the difference between them and the Akpabios.

They will speak with their votes. While you want the people to support you for Senate, after eight years of your misrule, Akwa Ibom people remain the poorest people in Nigeria even in the midst of derivation crude oil billions. They will reject you because you lack honour. In 2011, you appealed to the people of old Abak Division to forgo their right to produce a Senator and wait till 2015. This was to appease the Ibibio and get them to support your second term bid. Today, because of your lack of honour and the disdain you have for our people, you have come out to usurp what on the basis of justice and equity belongs to the people of Abak Division. This is after your own Ikot Ekpene side produced two deputy governors and a governor in the last 16 years while the Abak axis produced nothing. Is it also justice and equity that you want to impose yourself on the people as a Senator after your clan and family already produced two senators - Sen. Nsima Akpabio and Sen. Raymond Umoh. And because you do not fear God you can still talk about justice and equity in your self-serving agenda to impose Udom Emmanuel on the State under the guise of zoning. Is it equity and justice when you are putting the two most important positions of Governor and Managing Director of NDDC in Eket Senatorial District (as a matter of fact in Eket Federal Constituency)? Is is not true that Eket Senatorial District produced Governors U. J. Esuene and Clement Isong in the past when other parts of the State did not have the opportunity? Is Udom Emmanuel not from the same Federal Constituency of these past Governors? What justice and equity are you talking about?

You are the same man who told the people of Akwa Ibom State that you were not a product of zoning.

When a few years ago, I suggested to you that Oro should produce the next governor, you angrily and derisively shouted that you will never support an Oro man because they were too clannish and could not be trusted. I was in shock and later briefed Chief Edet Mkpubre about your hatred for Oro. Ironically, you have humiliated and despised the Ibibio, especially the Ibibio of Uyo Senatorial District on whose back you rode to the Governorsip in 2006/2007. The people of Abak Division as well as those of Ikono and Ini have also been thoroughly humiliated and marginalized.

As Governor in 2007, you met a State which was united and the Ibibio majority willingly supported you to become governor.

Today the State is sharply divided because of your arrogance, nepotism and insincerity. How can a leader who means well for his State promise the governorship position to the Ibibio and Oro at the same time?

How come only members of your family—including University students—have inexplicably become billionaires overnight flaunting billion naira worth of estates just because Godswill Akpabio became Governor? This act of uncommon nepotism and corruption did not happen during the governorship of Obong Victor Attah. How many members of the well established Attah family built new estates in the 8 years of Governor Attah?

Your position on zoning only changed after your wife led security operatives to seal up the Office of Mr. Umana Okon Umana, your former Secretary to State Government, when all you had to do was to name his successor. Your humiliation of Mr. Umana, who is one of those who facilitated your emergence as Governor, is consistent with your character to always pay back those who help you with evil. Even now, you have continued to play God by hounding and persecuting Mr. Umana whose only crime is that he has dared to run for the office of governor. Together with your wife, you have sworn that you will die first before the man who helped you can become governor?

Akwa Ibom people are not fooled by your double standards sermon on zoning. They know that it is all about ‘zoning’ Mr. Umana out of the race to enable to you impose Mr. Udom Emmanuel on the State. You gave testimonies in the Church that you were a product of the people and the will of God. Today, you are playing God. God who cannot be mocked is watching you.

He will judge you accordingly. I am sure you realize that six months to the end of your eight-year tenure, you are easily the most hated man in Akwa Ibom State today. Senator John Akpanudoedehe who was instrumental to your emergence was your first victim. He is lucky to be alive today. I later became your victim. I thank God that he used me to bless you. I have no regrets and would rather leave everything in his hands. As Chairman of Champion Breweries in the 80s, you came to me to beg for employment as a clerk. I advised you to go to the University. When you told me you couldn’t afford it, I gave you money to go to the University to study Law. Before then God had also used me to bless another member of the Akpabio family- Late Senator Nsima Akpabio—by sponsoring his university education.

Today you have paid me back with evil and there is a conspiracy of ungodly silence by the Akpabio family.

Others who have been rewarded with evil include Late Christy Essien Ibokwe, Obong Victor Attah (your former boss and benefactor whom you have thoroughly insulted and humiliated), Late Chief Fidelis Etim, Obong Ufot Ekaete, Mr Umana Umana, etc. Is it possible that all these people who helped you at one time or the other could become devils while you remained an angel?

Today it is the turn of Chief Don Etiebet, your former employer and benefactor. Chief Etiebet is being routinely insulted and humiliated by your commissioners. You have personally threatened Etiebet for insisting that the governorship race should be open to all and that there should be no imposition. Having been blinded by power, you fail to realize that 2015 election will be between you and your family on one side, and the people of Akwa Ibom State on the other side. Or you think Akwa Ibom people are not entitled to choose their governor?

I hear the machinery of the PDP has been handed over to you to use to personally handpick candidates for all the positions— Governor, Deputy Governor,3 Senators, 10 Members of the House of Representatives, and the 26 Members of the State House of Assembly. With your wife, brothers and cousins, you have already handpicked the 3 ad hoc delegates in the 329 wards. In spite of the protests by governorship aspirants and Chief Don Etiebet that the ward congresses did not take place in Akwa iIbom, there is a conspiracy of silence by the PDP. God will keep us alive to see whether this is not PDP’s way of trading off Akwa Ibom State to another political party.

You have also tried to play the ethnic card by sending delegations of misguided people to recruit Chief Etiebet and other leaders in Annang to support your agenda to foist Udom Emmanuel on the State under the pretext that you are pursuing an Annang agenda against the rest of the State. We cannot be fooled because you are executing your personal agenda for yourself and your family. We need a united State and you cannot use us to realize your imposition agenda.

I implore you not to send one of your ‘attack-dog’ commissioners to reply me the way they have been insulting elders in the State.

You have personal knowledge of all the issues I raised here. Reply me yourself to avoid hear-say.

My final advice is that you tread cautiously. Ask anyone who has left public office who remembers them once they are out of power. In these your last months, think of how to make peace with God, Akwa Ibom people and other Nigerians who you have offended. Stop carrying on as if you are a governorship aspirant in the 2015 elections, because you are not.

By Dr. Ime Umanah, Ufan Ndito Ubuene

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THE NATION TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2014

FOREIGN NEWS

Sierra Leone Ebola doctor dies in U.S.

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SURGEON from Sierra Leone who was being treated for Ebola in the US has died, a Nebraska hospital announced.

Martin Salia, who has US residency and is married to an American, arrived for treatment in the state on Saturday.

But on Monday morning the Nebraska Medical Center said the 44-year-old had died. He was the second person to die from the virus in the US. More than 5,000 people have died in the current Ebola outbreak - almost all of them in West Africa.

Liberian national Thomas Eric Duncan died in Dallas last month after coming to the US to visit relatives.

“We are extremely sorry to announce that the third patient we’ve cared for with the Ebola virus, Dr Martin Salia, has passed away as a result of the advanced symptoms of the disease,” said the hospital in a statement.

Dr Salia had worked as a general surgeon at Kissy United Methodist Hospital in the Sierra Leone capital, Freetown.

It is not known whether he was involved in the care of Ebola patients.

•Dr Salia

He was suffering from advanced symptoms, including kidney and respiratory failure, when he landed on US soil and was taken to the hospital in Omaha.

Two other Ebola patients were successfully treated at the unit, which is one of only a handful of specialist treatment centres in the US.

Pope Francis to make first U.S. visit

•Pope Francis

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OPE Francis is to make his first trip to the United States as the

head of the Catholic Church in September 2015, the Vatican said yesterday.

He will travel to the World Meeting of the Families, said Vatican spokesman Padre Lombardi. The Catholic public event, which celebrates the family as the basic building block of society, is to be held in Philadelphia next year.

His visit will make Francis the fourth reigning Pontiff to visit the United States in its history, the WMOF

said.

Challenges families face in modern times have been a hallmark topic for Pope Francis.

He is to hold a mass on Philadelphia’s broad central city avenue, Benjamin Franklin Parkway, on September 27.

World of the Family Meetings were instituted by Saint John Paul II and have taken place every three years starting with the first one in Rome in 1994.

B. Faso declares Kafando interim president

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OLITICAL and military leaders in Burkina Faso have chosen a former foreign minister, Michel Kafando, to be the country’s interim president.

The move follows the signing of a charter on Sunday mapping out a year-long transition to elections.

Mr Kafando was one of four possible candidates for the post, including two journalists and an academic.

The army took power after President Blaise Compaore was forced to resign on 31 October during mass protests.

Lt Col Isaac Zida, who declared himself head of the West African state, has pledged to hand over power to a civilian authority.

The transitional charter will see an interim legislative chamber and a transitional leader installed until elections are organised next year.

Mr Kafando, 72, was chosen by a special panel com-

posed of religious, military, political, civil and traditional leaders.

Negotiations in the capital Ouagadougou continued into the early hours of yesterday morning.

Mr Kafando’s first task will be to name a prime minister who will appoint a 25member government.

Mr Kafando, a former foreign minister and previously Burkina Faso’s ambassador to the United Nations, will be barred from standing at the next election.

International bodies have threatened sanctions unless civilian rule is restored in Burkina Faso.

Col Zida’s attempts to suspend the constitution and crack down on dissent sparked fresh unrest late last month.

In a communique on Saturday, Col Zida said the constitution was back in force in order to “allow the start of the establishment of a civil-

Britain begins 24-hour visa service in South Africa, others

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HE Philippines will start enjoying the British government’s Super Priority Visa Service, which ensures a decision on a visa application within 24 hours, the British Embassy in Manila said Sunday..

The Super Priority Visa Service, which will boost the visa processing time from the regular 10 days to just 24 hours, will also be offered to six other states– Turkey, South Africa, Unit-

ed Arab Emirates, Thailand, New York and Paris.

The British government said in a statement that the 24-hour visa service, already activated in China and India, would attract more business leaders, investors and wealthy tourists to the United Kingdom.

This is part of the government’s efforts “to support British businesses and to deliver our plan to secure the long-term economic recovery.”

Michel Kafando was previously Burkina Faso’s ambassador to the United Nations PHOTP: AFP

ian transition”.

Mr Compaore first seized power in a coup in 1987 and went on to win four disputed elections.

Tens of thousands of people protested in Ouagadougou in October against moves to allow him to extend his rule.

Sydney reception for India PM Modi

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RIME Minister Narendra Modi is addressing the Indian community at a reception in Sydney during his ongoing trip to Australia, the first by an Indian leader in 28 years.

More than 15,000 people are attending the meeting in Sydney’s Olympic park.

Mr Modi arrived in Australia last week to participate in the G20 summit in Brisbane.

Today, he will address a joint sitting of the Australian parliament in the capital, Canberra.

Separately, Indian mining company Adani won support from the Indian government and the Australian state of Queensland on Monday to help build a $7bn (£4.4bn) coal mine, rail and port project.

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CITYBEATS

CITYBEATS LINE: 08023247888

Synagogue: Court dismisses suit seeking to stop inquest

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HE Federal High Court in Lagos yesterday dismissed a suit filed by a lawyer, Mr Olukoya Ogugbeje, seeking to stop the inquest on the collapse of a building at the Synagogue Church of All Nations (SCOAN), Ikotun in Lagos.

The collapse, which occurred on September 12, resulted in the death of over 115 people, mostly South Africans.

Ogungbeje had claimed the inquest was constituted after the state’s agencies had indicted the church’s founder Prophet T.B Joshua by concluding that he added structures on the building without approval.

According to him, the Joshua’s right to fair hearing will likely be unfairly trampled upon by the respondents, namely Lagos State, the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice Mr Adeola Ipaye and the District Coroner Magistrate Oyetade Komolafe.

Dismissing the case, Justice Buba held that the applicant lacked the locus standi to institute it.

He said Ogungbeje’s fundamental rights has not been breached in any manner, adding that the church does not fall within the category of a “vulnerable” entity on which behalf a human rights action can be brought.

“Are Synagogue Church and Prophet T.B. Joshua ‘vulnerable section of the society’? It is the society that has become vulnerable to the church by losing over 100 lives,” the judge held.

Besides, he said the application was not brought on the church’s behalf or Joshua’s and was not even in the

By Joseph Jibueze

members’ interest.

“TB Joshua and Synagogue church are not in detention or incapacitated to come to court.

This case must be distinguished from cases brought on behalf of deceased persons whose right to life are being enforced or sought to be established,” the judge said.

Justice Buba said the lawyer completely misconceived the role of government’s agencies, saying the fact they indicted Joshua does not mean the coroner, which is not a court of law, has already made up his mind.

He said if, for instance, the prosecution strongly believes that a person is guilty and brings a charge against him, it does not mean the judge must make a conviction or that the accused would not get a fair hearing.

Justice Buba said besides the fact the coroner’s inquest is not a court of law but a factfinding entity, Prophet Joshua and his church “are not complaining”.

“Supposing they are satisfied with what was said or alleged, what is the right of the applicant being infringed upon that the court can proceed to protect?” he asked.

According to the judge, Ogungbeje did not show any threat or injury he would suffer with the inquest, nor did he disclose a legal or justiceable right to protect.

“A trial court will only have jurisdiction to enforce the fundamental rights of an applicant guaranteed under Chapter 4 of the constitution if the main reliefs involve a breach of the fundamental rights of the applicant,” he

•Joshua

said.

The judge said the coroner was set up by the state executive, and by the principles of separation of powers, the court would not ordinarily interfere in the workings of another arm of government.

“After a calm consideration of all the issues and arguments, the applicant has failed to make a case for the enforcement of fundamental rights.

“The case lacks merit, same be and is hereby dismissed,” Justice Buba held.

The inquest was constituted on September 26 under the Coroner’s System Law No. 7 of 2007 to investigate the causes and circumstances surrounding the building’s collapse.

Ogungbeje sought an order nullifying the inquest proceedings so far, as well as a perpetual injunction restraining the respondents from calling further witnesses.

He prayed the court to stop them from sitting, investigating, embarking on fact-finding or taking any untoward action in any manner whatsoever on any facts connected to the case.

Govt to rehabilitate Alaba International Market road

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AGOS State Governor Babatunde Fashola (SAN) has directed the state Public Works Corporation(LSPWC) to begin maintenance work on the ever- busy Alaba International Market Road, Ojo, in Ojo Local Government Area of the state.

Chairman, LSPWC, Mr. Gbenga Akintola, who disclosed this at a stakeholders forum, said the corporation complied with the directive and at the weekend began extensive work which will cover critically failed sections of the road He explained that the government observed the deplorable state of the road and instructed that direct labour approach be applied for repair pending major reconstruction work in the nearest future.

Akintola hinted that the work has been planned as night operation, owing to the high volume of human and vehicular movement in that axis.

He said the stakeholders fo-

By Miriam Ekene-Okoro

rum was necessitated by the need to seek co-operation of road users, shop owners and others whose activities might slow down the pace of work if necessary steps are not taken.

He, therefore, urged traders and residents in the area to take ownership of the road after the maintenance work by waging war against bad habits that can lead to damage of roads, such as dumping of refuse in drain and excess axle load, among others.

He also said that it has taken this long for the work to commence because the new Badagry Asphalt Plant completion was being awaited. He, however, added that now that the plant is being completed, Asphalt and other necessary materials would be easily sourced in a more efficient way rather than bringing them from the Ojodu-Berger Plant.

In her remark, the Council Manager, Ojo Local Government Area, Mrs. Oluwatoyin

Salami, thanked the LSPWC boss and his team for their intervention on the road, which according to her, is one of the most strategic within the Ojo community.

She promised to work with leaders of the market to ensure safety of men and equipment deployed by the corporation, adding that efforts will be made to ensure that any articulated lorries which are regular features on the road, are removed in order to prevent any delay or logistic challenges during the maintenance work.

Also Chairman, Amalgamated Traders Association, Alaba International Market, Paul Okenwa assured that no action that can jeopardise the smooth running of thin work will be tolerated from its members or any persons.

He called on motorists and other road users to use alternative routes to their destination during the maintenance work which is anticipated to take about two weeks.

Work resumes at Escravos-Lagos gas pipeline

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ONSTRUCTION workers handling the phase 2 of the Escravos-Lagos Gas Pipeline Expansion project returned to site yesterday at Igbooye, in the suburb of Epe, Lagos State.

The development was sequel to a peace agreement sealed between the parties on payment of compensation and other issues last Saturday.

Informed sources said that heads of the ruling houses and families who own the land met with representatives of the Directorate of Petroleum Resources (DPR), the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) and the construction company, Zakhem Construction Company Limited to broker a peace agreement.

The meeting was held at the

By Adebisi Onanuga

town hall of the neighbouring town, Ibonwon.

The DPR and NNPC team was led by Mr Bello while the community was represented

by Alhaji Mikhail Kadiri, Otunba Abdulwasiu MusaAdebamowo, among others.

Head of the Ewade ruling house, Otunba MusaAdebamowo confirmed the development.

He said the construction workers, chased out five days ago, returned to site yesterday in line with the peace agreement and to ensure the completion of the project within the next six months as planned.

On the other hand, the land owners were assured of payment of compensation as re-

quired by law.

Towards this end, MusaAdebamowo said the community was requested to forward a fresh letter detailing their demands to the DPR. They are also to undertake a measurement of the distance covered by the gas pipeline project within the town and forward same to the DPR while steps would be taken to conduct a fresh Environmental Impact Assessment of the affected land.

Last Wednesday,residents of Igbooye had taken to the streets to protest alleged nonpayment of compensation by the DPR on the over 10 kilometers of community and other family lands taken over by the gas pipeline expansion project.

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THE NATION TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2014

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THE NATION TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2014

NEWS

INEC’s voter cards crises continue Continued from page 4

The Kano Emirate called for an extension.

The district head of Makoda, Alhaji Wada Waziri Ibrahim, expressed disgust.

He said 30 per cent of Kano voters had been registered, which is a far cry from the residents’ expectation.

In Lagos, the distribution of PVCs in Ikorodu is a failure, leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) said.

Besides, the APC chieftains expressed concern over the slow pace of the Continuous Voters’ Registration (CVR), which the commission started last Wednesday. They accused the commission of frustrating the people’s willingness to participate in the general elections.

The APC leaders, who spoke to reporters after a meeting held in the residence of a former Lagos Deputy Governor, Prince Abiodun Ogunleye, described INEC’s shoddiness as “clumsy step” towards the general election.

Ogunleye said the PVC distribution was bungled in most of the polling units in Ikorodu, noting that frustration could make many people to lose faith in the electoral process. He accused INEC officials deployed in the area of handing over a chunk of the cards to unidentified individuals to share.

He said: “This tardiness could render PVC distribution susceptible to corruption and foul play.

In CVR exercise, the arrangement is terribly frustrating because of the obsolete and malfunctioning machines deployed

by INEC to register the people.

In most places, the computers could not complete more than 10 new registration in a day.”

The former Deputy Governor cited an instance where wouldbe voters in 78 polling units of 146 in ward A5 were given PVC, noting that INEC officials took wrong voters’ lists to other wards. In many other places, he said, only a few eligible voters could get their PVCs. Ogunleye added: “At units 14 and 15 in ward C2, 1,041 and 1,192 names there were respectively displayed on the voters’ lists, but less than 30 per cent of the people were able to collect their PVCs because of disruption by some sponsored hoodlums and sloppy preparation by INEC. “If the registered voters in the 2006 and 2011 INEC registration exercise in Ikorodu Local Government were 197,631 and 339,139 respectively, we are afraid that with the clumsy step and sloppy preparation of INEC,

the number of registered voters that would be declared for Ikorodu may be statistically untenable.”

Given what the APC leaders described as “technical difficulties” in the process, they demanded two weeks extension to compensate for its inadequacies.

Former Secretary to Lagos State Government, Asiwaju Olorunfunmi Basorun said the party expected more than 600,000 voters in Ikorodu axis because of influx of people into the area.

He urged the commission to improve its performance to prevent massive disenfranchisement.

Others APC chieftains at the meeting included the former Secretary to the State Government, Mrs Adenrele AdeniranOgunsanyo, Chief Kaoli Olusanya and Alhaji Waheed Owokodu.

A member of the House of Representatives, Mrs Abike Dabiri-Erewa, said: “ The situation on ground is pathetic and terrible as majority of the people in Ikorodu area of Lagos State were not able to get their voter card. This is largely so because of the short time allowed by INEC. “As l am speaking to you, my parents, Alhaja and Alhaji Dabiri who are octogenarians, could not even see their names, let alone collecting their cards, likewise a lot of aged people in the area. The situation is just pathetic as people are almost frustrated on the issue.

“I look forward for continuous registration that will give room for all those who are eleigible voters to get their permanent cards so that they will not be disenfranchised.

“I have received several calls from different areas in Lagos how they were frustrated on the issue. However, the good side of it is that new registration is taking place and l hope all those that have been denied in the past will have the opportunity to be registered.”

Afenifere Renewal Group (ARG) leader Hon.Wale Oshun said: “The Permanent Voters card was badly managed. The situation in Yaba area just like other areas in Lagos, is nothing to write home about. This was largely due to the short time allocated to the collection and re registering of new eligible voters.

“In general and in terms of assessing INEC on the issue of permanent voters card, it was disappointing. The most sensible thing is to extend the period of collection and re-registration for new eligible voters.

“Due to the recent awareness,

people are ready to register; preferably, they have the opportunity to do so. I did not find my own name on the register where l initially registered, likewise a lot of people in this area of Lagos State.”

Senator Olabiyi Durojaiye said: “It was frustration galore due to the nature of the capturing machine which took time to locate the particulars of voters. Therefore, it was time consuming and only few people could be attended to.

“If it takes about 15 to 20 minutes to attend to one person, then you can imagine what it will take to attend to several people within the time provided. The turnout was impressive due to the awareness campaign, so in order not to dis-enfranchise some people, INEC has to extend the time to accommodate all intended eligible voters.”

Edo State Governor Adams Oshiomhole accused some politicians in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) of importing mercenaries to register in their wards to boost their number.

Speaking after monitoring the continuous registration at Ward 10, Iyamho, Etsako Central Local Government Area, Oshiomhole said bus-loads of mercenaries were imported into the state and were given cover by “soldiers”.

Said the governor: “I have heard that some politicians are bringing in people from neighbouring states and I find that very strange. I was told that somewhere in Uromi, a PDP leader brought in soldiers to provide escort while they brought in people with buses from neighbouring states to register in one of the wards in Uromi and I find that very worrisome because the whole idea is not to import mercenary voters.

“The idea was to give an opportunity to those who didn’t register before to register. I can understand if someone who is resident outside his village wants to go back to the village for the purpose of election but the villagers know everybody. So, when you now import people who are not from the village and register them, that distorts the numbers and creates problems.

It creates problems for the electoral system.”

Oshiomhole urged INEC to ensure that there are no mercenary voters.

The governor added that the time allotted for the Continuous Voters Registration is inadequate due to the large number of people who still wish to register and the allocation of one Direct Data Capture Machine per ward to cater for the large numbers.

we are giving police and others the soonest possible time to produce Mr. Ugochukwu Eke.” Commissioner for Petroleum and alternate Commissioner for Information Chief Don Ubani, described the kidnap as “very unfortunate”.

He is worried that a journalist would be the target of kidnappers.

“He is not a man of extreme wealth , just a middle class man who constitutes no threat to anybody.”

He regretted that the incident occurred at a time when government had successfully flushed out kidnappers that once terrorized the state around 2009.

The Commissioner said the

security agencies had been alerted , and were working to rescue him.

He said government would do every thing within its powers to ensure that Eke is released unhurt.

Chairman of the Abia State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) John Emejor , appealed to Eke’s abductors to release him .

He urged the state government to get him releases.

Chairman, Correspondents Chapel of NUJ Mr. Emma Ugwu, expressed shock.

He called for prayers so that the kidnapped reporter could reunite with his family member.

The Nation reporter kidnapped

Continued from page 4

on top of the situation to ensure his immediate and unconditional release, because this gentleman does not deserve this kind of treatment. I can imagine the emotional trauma of the wife, other members of his family and even his colleagues have been subjected to just because of the actions of some group of persons. ”This has put to question the activities of security agencies in Aba and the state in general.

How could they have passed both police and army checkpoints around the same Ovom Road without being spotted by these security agencies? In fact,

Tension as Ombatse kills three in attack Continued from page 4

many injured. Some of the survivors put the death toll at 12 but so far, we were able to confirm three deaths.

Last night, Governor AlMakura, who is in Lafia, said: “There is no cause for alarm. The government, the police and the

security agencies have collaborated to put the situation under control.

“We have not imposed curfew but we have restricted the movement of commercial motorcyclists from 6am to 6pm as part of proactive security measures.

“Apart from the restriction of

Okada motorcyclists, all citizens and residents in the state, including Lafia, are free to go about their normal business.

“I appeal to the people of the state to report suspicious movement to the relevant security agency. We will ensure that every part of the state, including Lafia, is fully protected.”

TODAY IN THE NATION

“If Osoba loses this war, he faces political death.

If SIA loses, he kisses his second term goodbye, in the worst tradition of what the Yoruba call eedi!”

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2014 TRUTH IN DEFENCE OF FREEDOM

VOL.9

NO. 3036

COMMENT & DEB ATE EBA

S

UDDENLY, Nigeria is literally drowning in an avalanche of facts and figures on every aspect of the National Condition.

There was a time, not long ago, when you could hardly hold on to anything about Nigeria’s condition as fact. Not even something as basic as the country’s population.

According to some of the more reliable authorities, if you hived off 25 million from whatever official figure was in circulation, you might be getting close to the true figure.

No one could tell how much crude oil was being lifted offshore or onshore and by whom, how much of it was refined locally, how much of the refined product was being consumed locally, now for how much was refined petroleum was being imported.

Consumption was said to be so heavily subsidized that if pernicious support was not ended immediately, the entire country would have to go into receivership. Yet, they could not define just what the subsidy consisted in.

And, of course, the book keepers had no idea of just how much petrodollars was accruing to the exchequer after all the thieving that routinely creamed off fully 40 per cent of production, according to knowledgeable foreign sources.

All that is now history.

Where previously an acute dearth of facts made planning almost impossible, we now have something close to superfluity of data. Wild and usually self-serving guesswork is out. Certitude and precision are in.

It is almost as if the Dickensian character Thomas Gradgrind leapt out of the pages of Hard Times and landed in Abuja just before the Great Declaration, seized the machinery for data collection, storage, analysis, retrieval and reporting, and overhauled it so that it can keep pace with the Transformation gale sweeping the country.

Dr Gradgrind’s intervention has in effect, transformed the Transformation Agenda itself from a ritual chant into an actuality that can be measured, weighed and gauged.

In this age of empiricism, how can you claim that anything is being transformed when you cannot measure and weigh and gauge the changes resulting from transformation?

It is only fair to note at the outset that Dr Gradgrind, stern schoolmaster that he was, would have shaken his Victorian head at the overweening ambition of the marathon speech in general, and especially the lexical incontinence that ran

RIPPLES WOMEN MORE RELIABLE IN POLITICS THAN MEN, says Obasanjo

OLATUNJI DARE

AT HOME ABROAD olatunji.dare@thenationonlineng.net

Gradgrind in Abuja

•Dr. Jonathan

through it.

“Dear Compatriots,” it began. By the fourth paragraph, the Eagle Square audience, comprising a sizable crop of rented cheerleaders from all over the country, had been transformed into “distinguished ladies and gentlemen.” I can almost see the face of the Rt Hon (or is it His Excellency) David Mark turn quizzical, as if he was trying to figure out what that assemblage could have in common with members of the Senate, of which he is President.

As the speech progressed, Dr Jonathan abandoned that line and went folksy, calling the audience “my people.” It was as if he was back in Otuoke, trading banter with the locals over a barrel of the local brew.

Later still, he injected some element of endearment into his oration, and the audience became “my dear people,” as in this oratorical gem: “We have moved forward.

Only forward!!! my dear people. Forward!!!”

It got more collegial when the audience became his “fellow Nigerians.” It got positively fraternal when he called the audience “my brothers and sisters.”And so on and so forth.

But where it mattered most, you could not

HARDBALL

W

Yes, WOMEN STEAL LESS ...e.g ETTEHGATE

fail to notice the guiding hand of Dr Gradgrind in the Great Declaration, the history-making event at which Dr Goodluck Ebele Azikiwe Jonathan, who, unknown to Nigerians until he revealed the fact several years ago, is also an Awolowo by adoption – announced that he would be seeking reelection in deference to the supplications and yearnings of 17.8 million Nigerians.

Not ghosts, mark you, but actual living adult Nigerians in the fullest possession of all their faculties, precisely 17.8 million of them, not more and not fewer, according to those who orchestrated the event.

Here is one gem, emblematic of the Gradgrind touch: Access to potable water rose from 58 to 67 per cent in the four years from 2010 to 2014, coinciding neatly with Dr Jonathan’s term.

Those who doubt this will do well to consider the boom in “pure water” sales all over the country Such is the abundance that even those misguided elements who were demonstrating in Lagos against the plan to cut gasoline services had access to free bottled water.

Here is another: Sanitation coverage rose from 32 per cent to 41 per cent, again between 2010 and 2014.

I claim no familiarity with the term but I suspect it refers to garbage and sewage disposal across the country.

Even the jaundiced opposition will have to concede that a government that can keep track of and painstakingly document “sanitation coverage” nationwide and not just in Abuja, cannot be written off as “non-performing.”

And yet another: In 2009, average life expectancy was a dismal 41 years. Today, five years later, it stands at 52 years. If this is not life more abundant, as the jaundiced critics are sure to contend, it is certainly life more elongated.

Nor is that all the good news on the health front. “Some of our hospitals now perform open heart surgeries, kidney transplants and other challenging operations as we reposition our health service to end decades of

ERE Hardball to be nasty and maybe a tad mischievous, he would wink that the military’s loudly-announced recapture of Chibok (Chibok, of the captured school girls, the nemesis of the Jonathan presidency!) was the government’s answer to local hunters’ reported liberation of Mubi and Maiha, two besieged towns in Adamawa.

So, what local hunters can do, the military can do better, right?

No, that is no joke. And it is certainly, no flippancy, because the security of a country is serious business.

It is just a grave pointer to the precarious state of the Nigerian state, when basic security is the issue.

But to fully understand the matter, it is back to the very beginning of the state: the Social Contract.

By the Social Contract, the people in their sense of self-preservation, ceded some of their rights to a central Leviathan (read government) which, in exchange, would secure them; and take them out of Hobbes’s state of nature, where life is nasty, brutish and short.

In essence, therefore, the basis of any state, let alone of the modern state with all its

Hunters ahoy! panoply and sophistication, is security. So, any state that cannot secure any part of its territory is no state; or, if you prefer the tragic process, is a failing state.

So, some parts of Nigeria, particularly the Northeast, where Boko Haram captures even garrisoned towns at whim, is technically close to a failing state. That was the illogic that, in the first instance, threw up the brave local farmers who, perhaps fed up with the paralysed state of things, decided to call the Islamists’ bluff.

Still, even with its short-term glory and romanticism, hunters coming to the rescue of a state with a standing army is long-term bad news. Boko Haram is today’s enemy, which must be defeated by all means. But watch it: today’s patriotic hunters could be tomorrow’s hated guild of insurrection, thrown up to challenge the might of the state.

How did Boko Haram and even the Niger Delta insurgents emerge? Boko Haram cadres were convenient tools, for politicians to crush local opponents, just as the Niger Delta in-

OLAKUNLE ABIMBOLA

medical tourism that drains our scarce resources,” Dr Jonathan declared.

Did you hear that, Germany, India, and France? Your days of profiting from the health challenges of Nigeria’s top officials and their wives and surreptitiously siphoning state secrets out of them is over For decades, Nigeria’s artery, the River Niger, was too silted for navigation. It has now been dredged all the way from Warri, in Delta State, to Baro, in Niger State. And in just the last three years, 1.6 million tons of cargo had been freighted across that waterway, and exactly 6.7 million passengers who would have had to take an expensive cruise to enjoy the pleasures of water transportation experienced the thrill right here at home.

There is no vagueness here, no ambiguity: 1.6 million tons of cargo, not “more than one million” or “roughly two million tons of cargo; not “more than 6 million” or “nearly 7 million, passengers,” as those in the business of fudging would have stated. It doesn’t get more precise.

Apparently, they haven’t heard in the Transformation Situation Room the latest about the inland port that was supposed to be built near Lokoja for which almost the entire contract sum has been paid.

No construction is going on at the site.

The contractor has threatened to file a defamation lawsuit if the maritime authorities had the temerity to declare the site abandoned. Meanwhile the maritime authorities cannot move against him because he is politically connected.

It must not be supposed, however, that many of the other multi-billion Naira projects Dr Jonathan was rhapsodising over have gone or are headed the way of the Lokoja port project The sprawling power project, for instance , is scheduled, finally, to deliver guaranteed electricity in “several months.”

On the agricultural front, the picture is even more gladdening. Irrigation projects set up across the country by —who else — the Jonathan Administration, have in the past there years generated grain harvests of 3 million metric tons, with a cash value of N45 billion. Again, very precise.

There you have it. The Transformation Train is streaking on transformed tracks across Nigeria as a speed that almost staggers the imagination.

No wonder the Great Proclamation, with its intimations of even greater transformation ahead, was followed by a great deal of winning and dining at the Villa, according to an inside source.

Well might one say, as Oscar Wilde said in another context: In Abuja and with Abuja, nothing succeeds like excess.

•For comments, send SMS to 08111813080

•Hardball is not the opinion of the columnist featured above surgents were armed goons to muscle opponents, maim and kill for their political masters and help to fiddle the vote.

But then came a crisis of unmet promises and expectations, which made an armed band, not disarmed after elections, resort to violent self-help! Welcome, the pristine Boko Haram! Welcome, Niger Delta militants!

Goodbye, peace and security in Nigeria!

But, if local farmers were to come to a tragic epiphany: that there is no mystique behind the standing army of the state, any more than ordinary hunters vanquishing Boko Haram where the army could not?

What if, they think, in Fela-speak: uniform na khaki, na tailor dey sew am? What, after all the noise of war, these hunting braves are flush with a me-too syndrome, and decide to create their own security nuisance? Scary, uh?

The emergence of the hunters just shows how parlous Nigeria’s security has become.

So, the distracted Jonathan Presidency had better handle the matter with tact and extreme introspection.

Else, Boko Haram’s nemesis today may well be the fundament of tomorrow’s fresh security meltdown.

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