Wednesday 8th June 2016

As CBN Extends Consultations, Naira Falls to N361/$1 Obinna Chima

As concerns continue to mount over the modalities for the proposed flexible exchange rate regime to be introduced by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), the naira depreciated further to N361 to a dollar on the parallel market yesterday, as against the N357 to a dollar it closed on Monday.

The nation’s currency had fallen sharply from N350 to a dollar it closed the previous week to N357 to a dollar on Monday.

Dealers attributed this to the uncertainty over the flexible exchange rate as there have been speculations that the

policy might be announced this week. As a result of this, currency traders have been hoarding the dollars in anticipation that its value against the naira would strengthen once the policy is announced.

CBN Governor, Godwin

Emefiele, had at the last monetary policy committee, said the central bank resolved to introduce greater flexibility in the foreign exchange market structure and to retain a small window for critical transactions for prospective investors.

"With the foreign exchange

market framework now ready, the MPC voted unanimously to adopt greater flexibility in the exchange rate policy to restore the automatic adjustment properties of the exchange rate," he added.

The CBN met with bank treasurers and the Nigeria

Makarfi Takes over PDP as Sherriff’s Camp Kicks ... Page 8

Labour Congress (NLC) last week as it continued to engage stakeholders on its policies.

Speaking on the muchawaited guidelines for the flexible exchange rate, acting Director of Communication at the CBN, Mr Isaac Okoroafor, said: “The modalities have not been released. The governor Continued on page 8

Wednesday 8 June, 2016 Vol 21. No 7713. Price: N250

www.thisdaylive.com TR

UT H

& RE A S O

N

Delay Tactics Won’t Save You from Consequences, CCT Tells Saraki Tobi Soniyi in Abuja

FOR A PEACEFUL NIGER DELTA

L–R: Bayelsa State Governor Seriake Dickson, his Rivers, Delta and Ondo State counterparts — Nyesom Wike, Ifeanyi Okowa and Olusegun Mimiko — during a meeting with acting President Yemi Osinbajo on the security situation in the Niger Delta, at the Presidential Villa, Abuja…yesterday

In a statement that is capable of being interpreted to mean that he has made up his mind to convict the Senate President, Dr Bukola Saraki, at all costs, the Code of Conduct Tribunal ((CCT) Chairman, Mr. Danladi Umar, yesterday said that Saraki would face the full consequences of the charges of alleged false declaration of assets brought against him by the federal government in spite Continued on page 8

FG to Stand Down Military in Niger Delta Osinbajo, region’s governors synergise on crisis US expresses concern, urges dialogue

Bolaji Adebiyi, Tobi Soniyi in Abuja, Sylvester Idowu in Warri and Olakitan Victor in Ado Ekiti Faced with the possibility of Niger Delta militants carrying out their threat to bomb strategic public institutions and locations across the country, acting President Yemi Osinbajo

yesterday met with service chiefs, Niger Delta governors and some ministers and agreed to scale down military presence in the region.

It was, however, resolved that the military would remain

largely on the waterways to provide security against social miscreants and criminals that had made the routes unsafe for socio-economic activities.

The high level meeting’s decision came against the

background of a United States of America's statement expressing concern over the escalation of violence in the Niger Delta region, and urging a peaceful resolution of the crises.

A new group, the Niger Delta Liberation Force (NDLF), had joined the fray and threatened to launch missiles on strategic public institutions, including the State House, Abuja and others in Lagos,

UN Says North-East Not Safe For Return of IDPs… Page 11

Kaduna and Benue States.

Before the advent of the NDLF, there had been the Niger Delta Avengers (NDA) whose violent activities had led to several shut in of oil production in the region, reducing the nation’s output to an all-time low of 1.6m bpd Continued on page 9

2

WEDNESDAY JUNE 8, 2016 T H I S D AY

T H I S D AY WEDNESDAY JUNE 8, 2016

3

4

WEDNESDAY JUNE 8, 2016 T H I S D AY

T H I S D AY WEDNESDAY JUNE 8, 2016

5

6

WEDNESDAY JUNE 8, 2016 T H I S D AY

T H I S D AY WEDNESDAY JUNE 8, 2016

7

8

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 8, 2016 • T H I S D AY

PAGE EIGHT

Makarfi Takes over PDP as Sherriff’s Camp Kicks Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja After two weeks of consultations and moves to placate all aggrieved parties, the National Caretaker Committee set up to manage the affairs of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) finally took over the operations of the party yesterday.

Speaking while handing over the reins of office to the Head of Caretaker committee, Senator Ahmed Makarfi, on behalf of the dissolved National Working Committee, the former Deputy National Chairman, Prince Uche Secondus, advised the new leadership to take the party to the grassroots.

He gave assurance of the support of the former National Working Committee (NWC) members to the caretaker committee in order to move the party forward.

Secondus, who spoke at the party's national secretariat in Abuja, said the party leaders should not just sit in Abuja and continue to claim to be leading the millions of party members across the country.

"Our leaders must go back to the grassroots. It is not enough to be in Abuja and say I am former this, former that. Or say I am strong here or there.

"We must go to the grassroots because we no longer have government, security agencies, and money," Secondus said.

He also urged members of the party to buckle up and reposition the party to be strong enough to take over power and provide leadership for the country by 2019.

"This party is strong and capable of resolving its problems. This party is not divided. This party will move forward. This party is ready to capture power in 2019," he said.

The Deputy Senate President Ike Ekweremadu expressed optimism that with the trend of events, PDP would bounce back to reckoning in 2019.

"Our promise to the people of Nigeria is that we are going to produce the next president of this country in 2019. We will produce the president based on superior argument. We want our president to succeed but we believe that we have better things to offer to Nigeria because we have done that in the past and we will do it again," he said.

The Governor of Ondo State and Chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum, Dr. Olusegun Mimiko, also shared a similar optimism, saying that bad times in the country would provide an opportunity for the opposition party to get back to power.

"We are all united in the belief that PDP must wax strong as a strong opposition party, preparing to take over power in 2019. These are definitely happy times for PDP. But paradoxically these are unhappy times for the nation," Mimiko said.

He said dying has never been that cheap in the country, adding that beheading and dying have never come to the forefront of national discuss.

"It seems that every day you open the newspaper, you see people dying here, beheaded

there and people carting them away to secret graves. These are the worst of times for this nation. Our economy is bad, yes, but this is an era I call unbridled centrifugalism.

"All the centrifugal forces threatening to tear this nation apart are taking strength.

Where they are taking the strength I don't know. But the mismanagement of the affairs of this country is one of the renewed strength of these centrifugal forces. These are very worrisome times for this nation and I think we need prayers but we also need PDP," he said.

Makarfi said his committee would stick to the mandates given to it and ensure that they successfully carry out those mandates in order to see that peace and vibrancy returns to the PDP. He commended the party leaders, members and stakeholders that made it possible for the party to remain united.

According to him, PDP elected officials should always strive to showcase the good virtues of the party so that Nigerians can make their choice between it and the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led government.

"In the process of doing this, if we have hurt anybody, I, as chairman of the caretaker committee publicly apologise on behalf of everybody. Let them in the spirit of democrats and norms also embrace dialogue and accommodate each other and move the party forward," he said.

The Chairman of the Board

of Trustees (BoT), Senator Jibrin Walid, said he was also handing over the party's assets to the caretaker committee on behalf of the board.

Walid said the party assets, including the National Secretariat at Wadata Plaza and the Legacy House, Maitama were earlier handed over to the BoT by the Inspector General of Police (IG) Solomon Arase.

The former National Chairman, Senator Ali Modu Sheriff, was absent at the ceremony.

Sheriff also failed to attend the Monday night peace meeting held at the Ondo State Governor's Lodge in Asokoro, as he was said to have jetted out of the country to London a day before.

The former Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Ibrahim Mantu, said the PDP had shown that it was still one united house that could use its internal mechanisms to resolve differences.

Others who were at the handover ceremony were members of the National Assembly Caucus; the governors of Abia, Ebonyi, Rivers, Ekiti, Akwa Ibom, Delta and Bayelsa States, the BoT members, some former governors, and former Minister of Information, Professor Jerry Gana.

Meanwhile, a pro-democracy platform, Nigerians United for Democracy and Good Governance, has urged the leaders and stakeholders of the PDP to rise above the current crisis, set aside their narrow personal interests and unify their ranks for the good of the

party and the overall health of the Nigerian democratic project.

In a statement signed by its National Co-ordinator, Alhaji Usman Ahmed Ustaz, and National Secretary, Prince Edward Adewale, on Monday at the end of its National Consultative Forum, the group said the current political and legal crisis bedevilling the party could have been averted if common sense had prevailed and aggrieved members of the party settled for internal conflict resolution mechanisms and not rushed to the law courts to procure all manner of injunctions.

However, there are indications that the crisis in the party may deepen as the Sheriff’s camp is set to initiate contempt proceedings against the caretaker committee at the Federal High Court in Lagos, it was learnt yesterday.

The party’s National Secretary, Prof Wale Oladipo, and Deputy National Legal Adviser, Bashir Maidugu, said the caretaker committee remains illegal and lack powers to run PDP’s affairs.

Sheriff, Oladipo and the National Auditor, Alhaji Fatai Adeyanju, had obtained an order of interlocutory injunction restraining the PDP from conducting any election into the offices of the national chairman, national secretary and national auditor, which they occupy, pending the hearing and determination of their substantive suit before Justice Ibrahim Buba.

But, while the order was

subsisting, the caretaker committee was appointed.

Oladipo, in a statement yesterday, described the caretaker committee as a group of lawbreakers.

According to him, it was “very wrong” for the committee to take over PDP’s headquarters (also known as Wadata House).

He said: “Sheriff is out of the country and will be back tomorrow (today). The law breakers are in Wadata deceiving themselves. The law will take its course in the next one week.”

Maidugu said the caretaker committee was acting in defiance of subsisting court orders.

The complainants, through their lawyer Ajibola Oluyede, yesterday sought to move their motion to set aside the order made by Justice M. Liman of the Federal High Court in Port Harcourt on May 23, which recognised the caretaker committee.

They are also praying the court to strike out PDP as plaintiff because the caretaker committee lacks the powers to invoke the party’s corporate personality. The defendants are also challenging the court's jurisdiction.

According to Oluyede, the proceedings were stalled because the plaintiff was not ready with a response to the three applications, which he said were served on them five days ago.

The motion to discharge the order was filed on May 26 and will lapse tomorrow (June 9).

became the governor of Kwara State.

He also admitted that the name of the defendant was not mentioned in the acquisition documents executed by one Alhaji Attahiru Adamu and Carlisle Properties who were the sellers and buyers of the said property respectively.

Answering a question, the witness said: "My duty as an EFCC operative is to look for economic and financial crimes and not to investigate asset declaration matters."

Meanwhile, further crossexamination of the witness has been adjourned till 15 June.

Also, the tribunal chairman has advocated the return of Decree Number 2 to curb the alleged excesses of journalists in the country.

Speaking at the end of yesterday's proceedings, Umar, who could not hide his disdain for journalists, said: "Journalists should be punished" for publishing falsehood, "it is a criminal offence.”

Umar said that his position was informed by last week's publication in some newspapers to the effect that the tribunal

had adjourned the trial of the Senate president indefinitely.

Apparently angered by the publication, the CCT chairman accused journalists of practising irresponsible journalism that was in bad taste for him and for his tribunal.

He said: “If I have my way, I would bring back the decree 2 of the olden days to take care of the irresponsible journalists in this country.

“How can they dare to publish that we have adjourned the trial of this defendant (Saraki) indefinitely? It is the highest point of irresponsible journalism, but I thank God for them that we are in a democratic era and that is why they are doing what they are doing now.

“They are embarking on sensational journalism to sell their newspapers at the expense of truth, but that is not journalism but a serious crime that can lead them to jail."

During the military administration of General Muhammadu Buhari, Decree Number 2 gave the Chief of Staff, Supreme Headquarters

the power to detain journalists for up to six months without trial or anyone considered a security risk.

At the time, special military tribunals increasingly replaced law courts while the state security agency, the National Security Organisation (NSO), were given greater powers.

However, responding to the remark of the CCT Boss, the lead counsel to Saraki, Agabi, said that he admired journalists a lot because of their contributions to the enthronement of democracy in this country.

Agabi told the CCT chairman that what Nigeria needed was peace and not decree 2 and urged that all Nigerians should pray for peace rather than anything that could disturb the peace of the nation.

on the planned flexible exchange rate, he predicted that the critical window rate could be N220/$; Interbank – N280/$ and parallel market– N320/$.

“Initial divergence will be followed by convergence and slight naira appreciation.

Rationale- likely to lead to exchange rate unification.

Guidelines and modalities likely to be effective June

13,” he added.

Minister of Finance Kemi Adeosun led a team of officials to meet bond investors in London yesterday. Tapping the offshore bond market this year is crucial for Nigeria to fund a budget of N6.1 trillion ($31 billion) meant to stimulate the economy, according to Rand Merchant Bank.

DELAY TACTICS WON’T SAVE YOU FROM CONSEQUENCES, TRIBUNAL CHAIRMAN TELLS SARAKI of alleged delay of his trial.

The tribunal chairman, who was reacting to the allegation of delay tactics by the prosecution counsel, Mr. Rotimi Jacobs (SAN), against Saraki’s lawyer, said that the consequences of the trial and the charges would in no way be reduced on the accused person by his tribunal.

Umar, who spoke just before the defence counsel, Mr. Paul Usoro (SAN), was about to begin the cross-examination of the prosecution witness, Mr. Michael Wetkas, said that he had taken note of the delay tactics being employed by Saraki's lawyers and warned that the tactics would not in any way affect the consequences of the trial of the defendant.

"I am not happy at the delay tactics employed by the defence counsel. And I must say this thing out that this delay tactics will not reduce the consequences the defendant will meet from this tribunal at the end of the trial,” he said.

However, Saraki's lead counsel, Mr. Kanu Agabi (SAN), who was taken

aback by the remark of the CCT chairman, got up and asked the chairman what he meant by the consequences of the tribunal.

Agabi told the tribunal chairman that he and his client were worried over “assumed prejudices”.

The former Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) cautioned the tribunal against influence from opposition and enemies, adding that the defence team was against “assumed prejudices” as it is against justice.

"From the defence side, we are not worried about the law and facts that will be placed before this tribunal by the prosecution. But we are worried about enemies who may wish to use this tribunal to achieve their ulterior motives.

"As the tribunal chairman, we love you, we respect you, but we are afraid of consequences, especially as just stated by this tribunal this morning. Our fears have been reinforced, but we pray against consequences that are against natural justice," Agabi said.

Apparently overwhelmed

by the spontaneous reaction of lawyers to his remarks, the chairman then said nobody would be prejudiced.

Later, under crossexamination by Saraki's lawyer, Mr Paul Usoro (SAN), the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) witness, Wetkas, told the tribunal that Saraki was never investigated

by EFCC on the ownership of two properties in Abuja which he allegedly failed to declare in his assets declaration form.

The witness said that their assumption that Saraki was the owner of the properties — Plot 2482 and Plot 2481 Maitama, Abuja — was based on information obtained from the Managing Director of Carlisle Properties Ltd whose name he could not remember.

When the Certificate of Incorporation of Carlisle issued by the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) was shown to him and he was asked to read it out, the witness admitted that the two properties belonged to a registered company, Carlisle, and that they were acquired in 1993, 10 years before Saraki

AS CBN EXTENDS CONSULTATIONS, NAIRA FALLS TO N361/$1 has explained that we have to find a way of creating some flexibility around the foreign exchange management as it is today and the details would be released in due course.”

Meanwhile, the Chief Executive Officer, Financial Derivatives Company Limited, Mr. Bismarck Rewane, has reiterated that a misaligned currency and forex shortages were part of the problems

hurting the economy.

Rewane, in a latest presentation titled: "Nigeria - Technically in Recession, Could this have been avoided?” he presented at the Lagos Business School’s monthly economic news and views, noted that with Nigeria’s external reserves at $26.3 billion, it could only cover 4.28 months' import.

He stated that a flexible

exchange rate policy has a long term impact of attracting capital inflows.

“CBN preparing guidelines but caught between a rock and a hard place. External reserves minus arrears are lower than desirable. There is the fear of a run as soon as cap is removed. Funding sources for a second forex window in doubt,” he said.

Creating possible outcomes

TOP GAINERS NGN NGN OANDO 0.62 6.72 NEM 0.04 0.84 NEIMETH 0.04 0.86 UNITYBANK 0.04 1.00 HONEYWELL 0.06 1.73 TOP LOSERS NGN NGN UBA 0.45 4.25 CADBURY 1.02 19.48 ACCESSBANK 0.26 5.30 FBNHOLDINGS 0.13 3.76 SKYEBANK 0.04 1.16 HPE Nestle Nig Plc ₦755.00 Volume: 183.238million shares Value: N2.015 billion Deals: 3,488 As at yesterday 07/06/16 See details on Page 50

% 10.2 5.0 4.8 4.2 3.6 % 9.5 4.9 4.6 3.3 3.3

9

T H I S D AY • WEDNESDAY, JUNE 8, 2016

NEWS

Minister Rejects Dangote’s Ramadan Gifts for Vulnerable, Displaced Persons Senator Iroegbu in Abuja The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Alhaji Muhammad Bello, has reportedly turned down food items donated by the Dangote Foundation for the Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) in Abuja.

The Foundation, according to a THISDAY source, had taken the gift items, including sugar, salt, spaghetti, rice, danvita, and wheat meal worth millions of naira to the minister’s office yesterday but was bluntly rejected by him.

All entreaties to make him realise that the items are meant for distribution to the needy like those in the IDP camps fell on deaf ears as Bello was said to have stated that he was not hungry and didn’t solicit for any donations.

In a swift reaction, however, the Special Adviser to the FCT Minister on Media, Mr. Abubakar Sani, said there was no truth in the report that the FCT Administration (FCTA) rejected the purported gift from Dangote Foundation to the IDPs. According to Sani, “FCTA is not aware of any donations and therefore, not in the

position to neither reject nor accept the said gift items.

"I asked who saw the said gifts and the answer was no one did," he said.

In the same vein, the Director of Public Relations, National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Abuja Office, Mr. Ishaya Chonoko, also said that the agency was not aware of such donations.

Chonoko said: "If the normal procedure was followed, we should be aware of such donations, but as far as we are concerned, no donations of such was made, at least to the best of our knowledge."

The Foundation owned by the richest man in Africa, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, as part of its mandate to give especially in the holy month of Ramadan for the indigent and the vulnerable in the society, has the tradition of donating money and food materials to the less privileged and victims of other disasters across the country.

"The Ramadan supplies are delivered to the 36 states, including the FCT yearly and the governors assign a contact person to receive the items which are delivered in trucks on behalf of the

Dangote governor before distribution to the identified beneficiaries by the state government," an official of the Foundation who did not want to be named said.

Sources close to the Foundation in Lagos insisted that the FCT Minister did reject the donation to the surprise of the representatives of the Foundation even when it

was explained to him that it was for the less privileged.

Informed sources at the minister’s office indicated that the letter for the donation came while the minister was having a meeting with his directors and they all corroborated the fact that the donation was an annual gift from Dangote Foundation for the less privileged but he

is going on currently in the states, particularly Bayelsa and Delta. We believe we are going to find a solution to it.

"One of such decisions is that there is a need for us to share intelligence information, which is very important and for us to be proactive, working together with the various stakeholders in the states to achieve a better result going forward.

"Right from today, there is a meeting right after this and we are going to be collaborating even as we return to our various states."

The Delta State governor said as part of the efforts to achieve peace, the Amnesty Programme instituted in 2010

by President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua to calm frayed nerves in the region was still being reviewed.

"I don't think the amnesty has been put to a stop. I think the process is still ongoing, we have a Special Adviser in charge of amnesty and he is doing very well. He did brief us today and I believe amnesty is going to be maintained," he said.

Earlier in the day, the US had in a two-paragraph statement by the Public Affairs Section of the United States Diplomatic Mission said it was monitoring reports of attacks and other incidents in the Niger Delta and stated its support for all efforts, including the promotion of dialogue to address the grievances in the oil-rich region.

“We encourage all parties to resolve their disputes through peaceful means and emphasise that human rights of all Nigerians must be protected,” it stated.

Apparently mindful of the enormity of the crisis, the US said: “We continue to call on all Nigerians to persevere in efforts to achieve common goals: to end violence and curb the activities of criminal elements; to establish conditions and mechanisms for profound, positive, and lasting changes in the region; and to provide economic opportunity and needed services for residents of the Niger Delta.”

would not listen to any explanation as he insisted the food items be returned.

Some residents of the FCT expressed dismay at the action of the minister as they condemned his disposition to the plights of the IDPs who the items were meant for and were actually on the lookout for it having been informed earlier that the foundation would soon put smiles on their faces.

Callers at the FCT Secretariat at Area 11, it was gathered, were said to be very displeased on hearing of the minister’s rejection of the items, which they believed would have made the IDPs in the Abuja camp feel the good side of Ramadan.

According to them, the reason behind the minister’s rejection of the food items cannot be justified because those in the IDPs' camp are hungry and some of them are dying because government could not cater for all their needs.

A Dangote Foundation source confirmed that as at the time of filing this report, about 31 states had already taken deliveries of their items and some had started the distribution. It was learnt that 106 trucks of food items are on their

way to Maiduguri, the Borno State capital in fulfilment of Dangote’s promise to make this Ramadan fulfilling for the IDPs in the states.

The latest donation of food items was coming shortly after the Foundation donated N2 billion for the rehabilitation of the IDPs in various camps in Borno State.

The source said the Dangote Foundation had in the past supported victims of disasters with monetary and food items.

Food items were donated to the victims of post 2011 elections violence in some parts of the north, while victims of flood disaster across the country were also helped with various food items and other relief materials.

According to him, the Foundation also took its charity abroad when in 2015, donated $1 million to support the government of Nepal to rehabilitate the victims of two devastating earth quakes that ravaged the country that year in quick succession.

The Foundation also donated $500,000 to the government of the Republic of Niger to support victims of meningitis outbreak in the country.

statement signed by Jomo Gbomo, its spokesperson.

The group, however, expressed concern over the disproportionate use of force by the military, which it said had done serious damage to the social and economic lives of the people of the region.

While commiserating with the affected persons, families and communities, MEND called on the international community as well as the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to dispatch relief materials to the region, as a matter of utmost priority.

While commending President Buhari for his commitment to clean up Ogoniland, it warned communities in the region against harbouring criminal elements even as the group urged the military high command to stick to the rules of engagement and international best practices in their attempt to enforce the rule of law.

display absolute sincerity so that the militants would have trust in the process.

According to a statement issued by his Special Assistant on Public Communications, Lere Olayinka, the governor maintained that "the Niger Delta region as at today is still the golden goose laying the golden eggs on which all other regions are surviving and it will be suicidal for military action to be sustained against the militants."

Fayose who, in a statement last week Thursday, advised President Buhari to talk with the militants, said he was happy that "for the first time, the president took to advice and suspended military actions in the Niger Delta and opted to dialogue with the militants".

He maintained that the president's approach to civil unrests of any kind had caused more security problems in the country, adding that "the president must stop talking tough on issues that dialogue can resolve".

The governor said the hard-line approach of President Buhari had already cost Nigeria billions of dollars in revenue, adding that: "If our daily crude oil production of 2.2 million barrels per day had been sustained, Nigeria would have been having savings in the Excess Crude Account by now.

"Crude oil bench mark is $38 per barrel while the oil is now being sold at $50 per barrel, meaning that we would have been having $12 per barrel saved in the Excess Crude Account."

FG TO STAND DOWN MILITARY IN NIGER DELTA from its 2.2m bpd OPEC's allocation.

Following the debilitating effect of the militants’ activities on the nation’s income and economy, the federal government, which had responded with massive deployment of military personnel in the troubled region, had to back down on Monday, agreeing to scale down its show of force in an effort to court peace.

With President Muhammadu Buhari away in London on vacation and for ear infection check up, Osinbajo stepped in yesterday to avert the deepening of the violence that threatens to shut down not only the economy, but the entire nation.

"We have agreed that there is a need to de-escalate military operations by helping communities where the military needs to actually remain on our waterways to ensure that we adequately man the waterways while we engage the communities and that engagement will start any moment from now,” said Delta State Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, who briefed State House correspondents after the two-hour meeting.

At the meeting with the acting president, were all the governors of the region — Nyesom Wike (Rivers), Adams Oshiomhole (Edo), Ifeanyi Okowa (Delta), Olusegun Mimiko (Ondo), Seriake Dickson (Bayelsa) and Okezie Ikpeazu (Abia).

Others were the Minister of Defence Dan Ali; Minister of State for Petroleum Ibe Kachikwu; and Gen. …

Boroh, Special Adviser to the President on Amnesty Programme.

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Abayomi Gabriel Olonisakin, led the Chief of Army Staff (CAS), Lieut. Gen. Tukur Buratai; and Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Rear Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas, and …, Chief of Air Staff to the meeting.

Okowa told the reporters that they received briefings on the situation in the Niger Delta from the security chiefs and the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, adding that they also took cognisance of the unhealthy developments in Delta and Bayelsa States.

Assuring Nigerians that a solution to the problem is in sight, he said it was agreed that the military action in the region be stood down.

He said that the outcome of the meeting, which extensively sought collaboration with the states, would be implemented immediately.

Okowa said: "We, governors of the oil-producing states, security chiefs and ministers, who are concerned, met with the acting president and I believe we had a very fruitful meeting.

"One thing we identified is the synergy between the federal government and the states which is very important and this meeting has raised a lot of issues and we believe that the collaboration will help us to tackle the issues in the Niger Delta.

"Of course, we were briefed by the service chiefs and the governors also have their own perspectives along with the Minister of State for Petroleum. "We have taken a lot of decisions which will help us mitigate what

MEND accuses Niger Delta leaders of conspiracy with Avengers The Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta (MEND) has criticised former President Goodluck Jonathan and other Niger Delta leaders, accusing them of keeping silent in the face of the violent activities of the Niger Delta Avengers (NDA).

In a statement yesterday, the group said the avengers’ attacks on oil production facilities in the region were unprovoked and wondered why the Niger Delta leaders had not reined in the restive youths.

“What is more worrisome to us is the ungodly conspiracy of silence of the region’s elite and their tacit support of the NDA’s conduct under the pretext of a so-called ‘Niger Delta struggle,’ which went to sleep in luxury hotel suites in Abuja and around the world for the entire duration of the six years of Mr. Jonathan’s binge and unmitigated disaster as President,” MEND said in the

Fayose Commends Buhari over Negotiation with Militants Also reacting to the situation in the Niger Delta yesterday, Governor Ayodele Fayose of Ekiti State commended President Buhari for listening to wise counsel by agreeing to scale down the military operations and negotiate with the militants.

“The president must face the reality that democracy is about negotiation and concession," he said.

Fayose, however, said the federal government must

10

WEDNESDAY JUNE 8, 2016 • T H I S D AY

NEWS

News Editor Davidson Iriekpen Email davidson.iriekpen@thisdaylive.com, 08111813081

Okorocha, El-Rufai, Abubakar, Oyegun Meet Ohanaeze Leaders over Kano Killing, Herdsmen Senate condemns act, charges FG to prosecute culprits

Omololu Ogunmade in Abuja and Amby Uneze in Owerri Worried about the recent events happening in the country with particular concern on the relationship between the Igbo and Hausa, Governor Rochas Okorocha, his Kaduna and Bauchi States’ counterparts, Mallam Nasir El Rufai and Alhaji Mohammed Abdullahi Abubakar, and the National Chairman of All Progressives Congress (APC), Chief John Odigie-Oyegun, yesterday met with the leaders of Ohanaeze NdiIgbo led by its President-General, Chief Gary Igariway, in Owerri, Imo State.

THISDAY gathered that their discussions centred on the beheaded woman in Kano, the issue of herdsmen and the unity of the country.

The meeting had come after the visiting governors and APC National Chairman had attended the achievements presentation ceremony of Okorocha in the past five years, Monday night, with the governors, Oyegun and Ohaneze leaders speaking their minds on the disturbing issues of the Igbo woman, Mrs. Bridget Mike Agbahime, who killed in Kano, the herdsmen and the need to see those behind these unlawful acts as criminals and also as common enemies of the nation and her people.

In his speech at the meeting, el-Rufai said that the governors from the northern part of the country condemn totally the murder of the Igbo woman in Kano, and that the matter should be treated as a case of murder while those responsible must be brought to face the wrath of the law.

He said: “We will not accept a situation where people either Christians or Muslims hide under the umbrella of religion to commit crime. If someone had insulted God, the person should be left for God to take care of. I have advised the Kano governor to publicly deal with the people involved to serve as a deterrent to others.”

He continued: “I thank Ohanaeze for choosing the path of peace and unity. People are now using religion as a tool to divide and even

defraud people. That necessitated the introduction of religion bill in Kaduna so that people can be stopped from using divisive languages in the name of religion.”

On the issue of the herdsmen, he said: “It is a problem that is affecting the whole nation. It is not a case of Fulani invading other tribes but a criminal activity that must be nipped in the bud. In pure Fulani communities, the herdsmen are equally attacking them in numbers, doing all kinds of ugly things like kidnapping, armed robbery, rape etc.”

On Okorocha, the Kaduna State governor said: “Okorocha should be commended for his vision, achievements and Nigerianess. His vision of going to APC at the time he did redeemed the Igbos from going into political oblivion. He is one of the few political leaders who saw tomorrow, and whose entry into the merger that brought APC was strategic.”

In his own remarks at the meeting the Bauchi State Governor, Alhaji Abubakar said “the killing of the woman in Kano was an evil act. I had liaised with the Kano governor and he assured that arrest has been made and those responsible will face the full weight of the law.”

On the herdsmen problem, he said: “The problem has been in the North over the years and its occurrence in the South should not be seen as an act of invasion but a criminal act that must be treated as such, adding that the traditional Nigeria Fulani herdsmen are not known to be criminally minded, but because of the country’s porous borders, herdsmen from other African nations especially after the fall of Libya found their way into the country and they are the ones committing these crimes.”

The APC National Chairman, Oyegun in his contribution, said there were proofs that most of these crimes are being committed by foreigners and gave an instance of a Revd father in Benin who was kidnapped and out of the number of those involved in his abduction only one was a Nigerian and the rest were foreigners, adding that the nation has to rise to face these challenges squarely.

Doctors to Begin Nationwide Strike Tomorrow The National Association of Resident Doctors of Nigeria (NARD) will commence a nationwide strike tomorrow.

The president of the association, Dr. Muhammad Askira, announced this yesterday, saying the decision was taken at the ordinary general meeting of the national executive council of the association held in Jos between May 30 and June 5.

“Sixteen out of 58 federal tertiary institutions or centres were exempted from the initial centre based strike for the commitment of the chief medical director of the hospitals to implement the federal government’s directives,” he said.

“If by midnight on Sunday, June 19, our demands are not met, all the members of the association, including those exempted, would

join the indefinite nationwide strike.”

Askira, according to The Cable, said the association found it necessary to take “the painful decision” following the inability of the government to meet its demands.

“Due to the failure of the government to address the demands of NARD, it has declared a total and indefinite strike,” he said.

“NARD has to take this painful decision in order to highlight the plight of our hardworking members who have had to endure a long period of deprivation and disenfranchisement.”

He said the association would continue to be open to discussion and ready to partner government to ensure effective healthcare service delivery to Nigerians.

He commended the leadership of Ohanaeze for their maturity in handling some of these sensitive issues.

President-General of Ohanaeze, Igariway, had earlier in his speech, expressed satisfaction with the way the governor of Kano State is handling the case of the Igbo woman beheaded in his State, and cautioned against inciting statements from leaders.

He commended the goodwill demonstrated by the Kaduna and Bauchi State Governors.

The host, Governor Okorocha said the killing of the woman in Kano State was an outright case of murder and has nothing to do with tribe or religion because what is criminal is criminal and must be treated as specified by law, adding that seventy percent of Nigeria’s problems could be adjudged to have arisen from

lack of communication.

He said with what the governors said: “It could now be understood that the Kano incident was not an attack against Ndi-Igbo but a case of crime. It is also pertinent for us to know that the wonderful bridge that connects the Igbo to the North is not faulty. The bridge is as strong as it has ever been. The Igbos must fortify this bridge for both economic and political reasons.”

Meanwhile, the Senate yesterday vehemently condemned the recent killing of a woman, Mrs. Bridget Agbahime, in Kano over alleged blasphemy and called on the federal government to apprehend and adequately punish culprits of the act.

Mrs. Agbahime was reportedly killed by some Islamic fundamentalists over

alleged blasphemy, an action which had attracted widespread condemnations across the country.

The Senate’s motion followed a point of order raised by Senator Samuel Anyanwu (Imo East), during which he bemoaned the act, describing it as a clear and barbaric violation of the principle of sanctity of human life.

Anyanwu who commended Kano State Governor Abdullahi Ganduje and the state’s commissioner of police for promptly arresting the culprits, saying he would serve as a deterrent to others. He however, warned against sweeping the matter under the carpet.

He said: “I think it should go beyond that it should go beyond that. We do not want a situation where someone is being detained

today after a period of time we would not hear about that mater.

“The worst thing that could happen to a man is for his wife to be killed right before him. I think this Senate should rise and condemn this kind of act. We are one Nigeria and we all believe in one Nigeria and we want to respect our religious affiliations in this country.”

In his remarks, Deputy Senate President Ike Ekweremadu who presided over the plenary, charged the Inspector General of Police, Mr. Solomon Arase, and other relevant agencies of government to ensure the culprits are prosecuted.

He also said it was the responsibility of the government to protect lives and property.

“Government must ensure protection of lives and properties of all Nigerians at all times in whatever circumstances,” he said.

TOWARDS FOOD SECURITY

R–L:Acting PresidentYemiOsinbajo; GovernorsAtikuAbubakarBagudu (Kebbi),AbdullahiGanduje (Kano);andGovernor DavidUmahi(Ebonyi), during thetaskforceonriceandwheatmeetingwith theacting presidentatthePresidentialVilla,Abuja...yesterday

Kogi Tribunal Dismisses Wada’s Petition against Yahaya Bello Tobi Soniyi in Abuja The Kogi State Governorship Election Tribunal sitting in Abuja has dismissed the petition filed by former Governor of the state, Idris Wada, challenging the declaration of Yahaya Bello of the All Progressives Congress as governor.

Bello replaced Abubakar Audu, who died before completion of the poll.

Audu was in clear lead as the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) was collating the results of the governorship election which held on November 21.

After his death, INEC declared the election inconclusive and asked the APC to name a replacement.

Bello was named the replacement, and he defeated Wada in the supplementary election that held on December 5.

However, Wada challenged the outcome at the tribunal chaired

by Justice Halima Mohammed.

He alleged “gross irregularities,” and asked the tribunal to determine whether Bello was qualified to be declared governor-elect even though he did not take part in all the electoral processes that led to the supplementary poll.

The former Kogi governor said INEC contravened the electoral law by accepting to allow the APC to replace the late Audu with Bello.

He said Bello went into the supplementary election without a valid running-mate.

The running mate to the late Audu, James Faleke, had declined to run with Bello saying that as the deputy to the late Audu, the poll was technically concluded on November 21 and he should have been declared winner of the election.

The tribunal had earlier dismissed Faleke’s petition challenging Bello’s election on the grounds that he lacked the locus standi to challenge the process that produced Bello as the APC candidate.

The tribunal held that Bello’s

nomination was in line with the Electoral Act and an internal affair of the APC and that Wada not being a member of the APC , had no right to challenge the process.

Wada, who was the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, (PDP), had also prayed in his petition that the tribunal reject the nomination of Bello as a replacement for the late Audu because it was done outside the 21-day period allowed by the Electoral Act. The tribunal said the 21-day period for the substitution of candidate did not apply in the matter since Bello “is a member of the APC and having come second in the primary election earlier conducted by the party.”

It further held that none of the parties provided materials to prove corrupt practices during the election, as corrupt practices were not established by evidence.

The tribunal further held that there was no merit in the entire

petition to support the prayers sought.

“Having critically examined the conduct of the election, the petitioner has failed to prove his point. Bello is hereby declared winner,” the tribunal held.

Shortly after the tribunal’s decision, the immediate past Deputy Governor of Kogi State, Yomi Awoniyi addressed PDP’s supporters.

He urged them to remain calm and refuse to be provoked into violence.

Awoniyi said the party had absolute confidence in the judiciary and had therefore mandated its team of lawyers to appeal the judgment.

He assured the supporters that justice was on their side and also expressed the hope that on the long run, Justice would be done.

“We are not appealing to glorify ourselves. But to deepen the rule of law,” he added.

WEDNESDAY JUNE 8, 2016 • T H I S D AY

11

NEWS

Senate Confirms Receiving Buhari’s Vacation Letter Committee queries Chevron over $7.4bn contract inflation

Omololu Ogunmade in Abuja The Senate, yesterday acknowledged the receipt of the letter from President Muhammadu Buhari, informing it of his trip to London on medical vacation.

The letter was read by Deputy Senate President Ike Ekweremadu who presided over the plenary.

In the letter, the president said he was embarking on a vacation between June 6 and 16 and Vice President Yemi Osinbajo will act on his behalf.

The letter read: “In compliance with Section 145 (1) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), I wish to inform the Distinguished Senate that I will be away on a short medical vacation from 6th-16th June 2016, while I am away, the vice president will perform the functions of my office.”

Also yesterday the Senate Committee on Gas has queried the alleged inflation of “Escravos gas to liquid project” from $2.9bn to $10.3 billion, thus implying $7.4 billion increase by the management of Chevron Nigeria Limited.

At a public hearing held in National Assembly, the committee queried Chevron for unilaterally increasing the contract figure without a recourse to its partner,

the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC).

The Committee Chairman, Senator Bassey Akpan (Akwa Ibom North-east), criticised the oil firm over the huge increase, insisting that the company had violated the terms of joint venture agreement (JVA).

He said it was impossible for a project with just 33,000 barrels per day capacity to cost $10.3 billion when a similar project in Qatar with 34,000 barrels per day cost only $1.2billion.

Akpan said investigations into the project were carried out by the sixth and seventh Senate with a promise that the eight Senate would conclude the investigations within the shortest time.

“So, between 2008 and now, the project cost had risen by an additional $5 billion and this is quite worrisome. We need to sit down and look at the cost. It is quite astronomical for you to have the cost that was approved at $2.99 billion with a completion cost of about 10.3 billion.

“We are going to guide our decision by the venture agreement and every other related Act of the National Assembly. We will frown at anybody who breaches the law. I am not satisfied with the explanation they have given. How can I be satisfied.

As a Nigerian, I am not satisfied

Alleged N4.8bn Fraud: Ex-Air Force Chief, Umar Opts for Out-of-Court Settlement Alex Enumah in Abuja A former Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshall Mohammed Dikko Umar, standing trial on allegation of corruption to the tune of N4.8billion has told a Federal High Court sitting in Abuja that plans are on to get the matter settled out of court.

At the resumed hearing, yesterday, Umar through his lawyer Hassan Liman, informed the trial judge, Justice Binta Nyako, that he had made substantive efforts to get the matter settled out of court.

Liman particularly disclosed that his client had meetings with officials of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) where discussions were held on the subject matter.

He disclosed that the first meeting involving the head of legal department of the commission, the prosecution counsel and Umar was held on May 31, while another meeting was held on June 3.

Present at both meetings was a member of the EFCC task force Ibrahim Musa and the prosecution counsel, Sylvanus Tahir.

The defence counsel speaking further disclosed that it was resolved that the defendant should send a formal communication to the commission, which he claimed had been done, adding that the letter which was addressed to the EFCC Chairman, Ibrahim Magu, was dispatched on June 6, 2016.

However, prosecution counsel, Sylvanus Tahir, who claimed he

was aware that the defendant had written a letter to the chairman of the commission seeking to engage the federal government in a discussion over the charge, told the court they were prepared for the day’s business.

Tahir insisted that the outof-court settlement was not a ground to stop trial since it was not a civil matter and urged the court to order for commencement of trial.

Responding, counsel to the defendant said that it would be prejudicial to commence trial in view of the ongoing attempt to settle the matter out of court.

Liman, while acknowledging the fact that the case had been fixed for trial, prayed the court for an adjournment to enable them proceed with the out-ofcourt settlement.

However, Justice Nyako in a brief ruling held that trial could not commence since the condition precedent for trial had not been met by the defence.

Nyako said that the defence ought to have filed a summary of defence for trial to commence.

The matter was therefore adjourned to June 16 for trial to begin.

The EFCC on May 11, 2016, arraigned Umar before Justice Binta Nyako of the Federal High Court, Abuja, on a seven-count charge bordering on money laundering, criminal breach of trust and corruption.

but we need to listen to NNPC. “I want to assure Nigerians that we would get to the bottom of this. The committee also queried why the share ratio on the project was 75 percent to Chevron and paltry 25 percent to NNPC whereas the previous ventures were done at 60:40 per cent ratio.

Responding, the Managing Director, NNPC/Chevron Joint Venture, Mr. Monday Ovuede, argued that Chevron did not violate JVA because it invited NNPC on several occasions for

a meeting.

According to him, when it was clear that the contract had to be reviewed, Chevron notified the NNPC and called for meetings at several occasions which he said the NNPC ignored.

Ovuede therefore said in view of NNPC’s complacency, the company was left with the option of either jettisoning the investment or go ahead with it.

He said: “We decided to act in good faith considering the importance of the project. We

feel that we acted in a reasonable and prudent manner because we called for several meetings and NNPC did not attend, we sent request for approval they if not respond.

“Today, that plant is running, we have people employed there would it have been good faith to have allowed all the materials that were purchased to rot away because one partner refused to come to meetings?

“If we didn’t do what we did, the value being released today from EGTL

wouldn’t have been realised,” he said.

However, the committee asked Chevron to provide more documents relating to the contract, such as evidence of shareholding, a copy of the letter signed by NNPC GMD indicting Chevron and its reply.

It also asked the oil company to provide details of the joint operating account for the project since inception in 2009 as well as evidence of tax remittances to the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS).

STAKEHOLDERS

L-R: Alaafin of Oyo,Oba Lamidi Adeyemi; Oyo State Governor, Senator Abiola Ajimobi; Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Saliu Adetunji; and state Deputy Governor, Chief Moses Alake Adeyemo, during a meeting on Education Stakeholders’ Forum in Ibadan....yesterdayFelix

UN Says North-East Not Safe For Return of IDPs Boko Haram retakes Niger boarder town of Bosso Senator Iroegbu inAbuja The United Nation (UN) has advised the federal government against returning the Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) living in different camps within the country, especially to Borno and Yobe States for now, on the premise that part of North-east was not yet safe.

This is coming as the Boko Haram terrorists launched a major comeback by taking a major border town of Bosso in Niger Republic.

The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) Regional Representative for West Africa and Regional Coordinator for the Nigeria Situation, Ms. Liz Ahua, stated this on Monday in Abuja at the Lake Chad Basin Regional Protection Dialogue for the Victims of Boko Haram Insurgency, Ahua revealed that Boko Haram-led terrorism in Nigeria, Cameroun, Niger and Chad had led to loss of thousands of lives and caused massive displacement of over 2.7 million IDPs and refugees in the region.

She noted that up to 60 per cent of the IDPs are children, out of which more than 20,000 are unaccompanied children displaced by the conflict.

She said: “We note that there

are returns that are taking place even as we talk today, but I will simply want to underscore that the conditions are not fully ripe yet because we still have persistent threats from Boko Haram, presence of mines, unexploded Improvised devices as well as absence of some basic services. All of these put acute humanitarian and protection risks for the populations affected. We have visited these areas and we know precisely of what we are saying.

“In Nigeria alone, 3.5 million IDPs and host communities live in areas of Borno and Yobe States that are still largely inaccessible to humanitarian actors. We take note and rejoice on the successes achieved by the military operations that have brought back a number of areas in the north-eastern Nigeria occupied by Boko Haram under government control as well as the capacity of the insurgence to engage militarily.

“However, these have not fully degraded the capacity for the harassment, the maiming and killing of the defenceless civilians. Consequently, conditions of live in the northeast is not yet fully conducive for the return of Nigerian refugees and IDPs particularly in Borno State.

“The Lake Chad Basin today

faces a fundamental protection crisis in Nigeria and across the neighboring states. The Boko Haram insurgency and the spill over in Cameroun, Niger and Chad has led to the loss of thousands of lives and massive displacement of over 2.7 million people in the region and affected the lives over 20 million persons in the countries,” she added.

According to Ahua: “It is important to note that around 60 per cent of the affected population are children and we insist on that.

Among these affected children we have 20,000 unaccompanied.

“Many of them are living in areas where the humanitarian and civilian government actors have limited access to help them because of insecurity.”

Meanwhile, it is feared, she said, that another 50,000 persons have been dislocated from their homes in a town in Niger following an attack that took place on that town on Friday June 3.

She said the numbers of IDPs in Niger may swell to 180,000, while that of Cameroun and Chad are reported to be over 160,000 and 54,000 IDPs respectively.”

Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Interior, Mr. Bassey Akpanyung, said the regional dialogue was

stimely against the backdrop of the progress being recorded by the Multi-National Joint Task Force (MNJTF) and members of the Lake Chad Basin Commission (LCBC) in the ongoing counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency operations within the region.

According to Akpanyung, the degradation of the terrorists by the regional force has thrown up social and humanitarian challenges, especially the emergence of refugee camps for displaced Nigerians in neighbouring countries as well as IDPs within Nigeria.

In a related development, the Boko Haram, are said to have retaken the town of Bosso in south-eastern Niger Republic overnight on Monday after clashes with soldiers from Niger and Nigeria, the mayor of Bosso and a military source said on Monday.

The Reuters reported that the Islamist group first took the town near the Nigerian border on Friday in an attack in which 30 soldiers from Niger and two from Nigeria were killed.

The Nigerien Defence Ministry stated that their troops had retaken the town by Saturday morning before the counter-offensive by the terrorists group.

WEDNESDAY JUNE 8, 2016 • T H I S D AY

12

NEWS

FG Threatens to Revoke Licences of Banks for Violating ‘No Sack’ Order The federal government has threatened to sanction banks and telecommunication companies, which fail to comply with its order to suspend retrenchment.

The Minister of Labour and Employment, Dr. Chris Ngige, gave the warning at the 105th session of the International Labour Congress (ILC) in Geneva, Switzerland.

The minister, according to the The Cable, expressed shock that the directive was disregarded.

“The federal government gave the licences to the banks to operate and if its directives are not adhered to the licences will be withdrawn if the need arises,” he said.

“We will go a step further if they continue.

We know what to do.

They need to comply.

They need to come to the negotiation table.

We halted the spate of sack in the oil industry and we succeeded.

“Even if you are going to lay off, there is a way to declare redundancy, there is a process. Section 20 of the labour act says it. You must call the unions and discuss with them. You don’t just treat them as slaves in their own country and you want

us to keep quiet.

“We want them to maintai n the status quo. As far as I am the minister of labour, I will p ro t e c t t h e i n t e re s t o f workers; same to the telecommunication companies, they are also talking about compiling lists without discussing w i t h a n y b o d y. ” Ngige’s statement came

after Skye Bank laid off 1 7 5 s t a ff .

The bank took the action on Monday, which happened to be the next working day after the directive by the minister.

Ecobank also sacked o v e r 1 , 0 0 0 s t a ff l a s t week.

The current economic s i t u a t i o n i n the country has led to massive job loss.

T H I S D AY WEDNESDAY JUNE 8, 2016

13

14

T H I S D AY • WEDNESDAY, JUNE 8, 2016

COMMENT

Editor, Editorial Page PETER ISHAKA Email peter.ishaka@thisdaylive.com

KILLING OF DEFENCELESS CIVILIANS (1) Sonnie Ekwowusi queries the handling of protests by security operatives

A

mid the increasing deadly gangsterism, socioeconomic rights protests and pro-separatist agitations in some parts of the country, the Nigerian army should resist the temptation of killing or mowing down defenceless civilians under any pseudo-rationalisation or un-fancied subterfuge or any excuse at all. If Nigeria is not fighting a conventional war at the moment, why mow down defenceless civilians? And even if Nigeria was fighting a war it is unjustifiable under the rules of war or rules of engagement to open fire on defenceless civilians let alone intentionally murdering them and callously carting away with their corpses.

No matter the pent-up grudges or hatred or revengeful spirit, the rules forbid murdering defenceless and harmless protesters and agitators under any pretext. We all watch the CNN and the BBC. We appreciate how the police and security agencies in the other countries quell riots and civil protests.

In those countries, advancing policemen do not open fire at angry protesters let alone murder them even when the angry protesters pelt them with stones or fling dangerous weapons at them. Instead they may throw tear gas or harmless rubber bullets at the protesters.

But here in Nigeria the situation is different. Since February 1971 when the Nigeria police fired at protesting students in front of Zik Hall at the University of Ibadan and killed student union leader Kunle Adepeju, the army, security operatives and police drafted to quell riots or peaceful public demonstrations have been trigger happy. They can kill any protester any time and afterwards cover up their murderous deed with lies. We celebrate our thirst for human blood. We even celebrate our newly-found barbarism. At the time of writing, Nigerians were bemoaning the beheading of Mrs. Bridget Agbahime, an Igbo lady whose head was not only reportedly cut off in Kano but whose lifeless head was being paraded in the streets of Kano for alleged blasphemy. Her beheading was a reminder of the killing of Gideon Akaluka in Kano prison in 1995 for undisclosed offence. The tragedy is that from 1995 till date the mystery surrounding the beheading of Akaluka in Kano prison has not been unravelled. If the killers of Akaluka have not been brought to justice till date, what is the guarantee that the real killers of Mrs. Agbahime will be apprehended and prosecuted in the law court? And if one may further ask, why behead a fellow citizen? Why dispatch a group of soldiers to murder unsuspecting and defenceless protesters all in the name of quelling protest? In the last four years or so, Global Human Rights Organisations, Amnesty International (AI), has been tendering reports of war crimes and crimes against humanity committed by the Nigeria. The AI reports are being backed up by what the AI considers as compelling and overwhelming evidence from well over 400 victims of military torture and highhandedness in

IF THE KILLERS OF AKALUKA HAVE NOT BEEN BROUGHT TO JUSTICE TILL DATE, WHAT IS THE GUARANTEE THAT THE REAL KILLERS OF MRS. AGBAHIME WILL BE APPREHENDED AND PROSECUTED IN THE LAW COURT?

Nigeria. Initially the AI reports were received with mixed feelings but fresh evidences emerging from different sources tend to corroborate the AI reports. For example, the various human rights groups have not stopped accusing Nigeria’s Joint Task Force of killing many defenceless civilians in its fight against Boko Haram. Neither can we gloss over the incessant killing of Niger Delta civilians in the several army attacks against the Niger Delta agitators. In 2009 or thereabout, the Nigeria police and soldiers killed more than 130 civilians while trying to quell sectarian clashes and riots that engulfed the central city of Jos at that time.

On or around December 12, 2015, the Zaria massacre occurred. Following the attack by the army on the Shia Muslim community ostensibly to rescue the Chief of Army Staff from alleged assassination, about 1,000 defenceless and unarmed civilians were killed. It has now recently been revealed at the Judicial Commission of Inquiry (JCI) that 347 Shiites killed by the Nigerian army were buried in Mando in a single mass grave. On April 30 2016 a trigger-happy soldier fired and killed one Alice Aktarobi, a level 12 judicial officer with Oleh High Court, who was on her way to chair the wedding of her daughter. On February 9, 2016, the Aba massacre took place.

Nigerian soldiers shot and killed countless defenceless proBiafra protesters who were peacefully holding prayers inside the football field of Ngwa High School, Aba, in Abia State.

The photographs of the murdered victims were circulating on whatsApp at a time. But while investigations on the Aba massacre were still going on, the Onitsha massacre occurred on May 30, 2016. Over 30 civilians were killed and many injured by the military after the several clashes involving the military, police and members of Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and members of the Movement for Actualisation of the Sovereign State of Biafra (MASSOB) during the Biafran day celebration at Nkpor-Agu, Niger Bridge, Onitsha and Asaba.

But the military has a defence on the Onitsha massacre.

Deputy Director Army Public Relation of the 82 Division, Nigerian Army, Col. H. A Gambo has explained that the army intervened in Onitsha “in consonance with constitutional provisions of aid to civil authority where and when such occasion demands” in order to maintain peace and security in Onitsha. He also explained why the army resorted to killing the civilian protesters during the said clashes. According to him, “troops of 82 Division Nigerian Army as the lead agency of the security agencies had to invoke the extant Rules of Engagement (ROE) to resort to self defence, protection of the strategic Niger Bridge, prevent re-enforcement of the proBiafran members apparently surging ahead from the far side of the strategic Niger Bridge at Onitsha. All these efforts were in order to de-escalate the palpable tension as well as ward off the apparent threats to lives and property in the general area”.

ABOVE THE FRAY

T

Nyesom Wike, Rivers State Governor, is committed to the development of his people, writes Simeon Nwakaudu

he successful launch of the clean-up exercise of Ogoni land last Thursday at Bodo City by President Muhammadu Buhari brought to the fore Governor Nyesome Wike’s political and social engineering skills.

That event highlighted why majority of the people of Rivers State voted for Governor Wike to pilot the affairs of the state and steer it on the path of development. That event was a complete departure from the drama of the recent past when the immediate past administration used state government resources to fight the federal government, irrespective of the project or programme initiated to improve the lives of the people.

A day to the launch of the clean-up exercise, the Rivers State All Progressives Congress released a statement aimed at provoking violence in the state. As usual, the Rivers State APC sponsored some misguided resident media practitioners to amplify this anti-people statement.

As a statesman with the interest of Rivers State at heart, Governor Nyesom Ezenwo Wike made a state-wide broadcast were he outlined measures that would ensure the peaceful launch of the clean-up exercise of Ogoniland. This state-wide broadcast calmed frayed nerves.

Unlike the Rivers State APC and her leaders, Governor Wike worked hard to ensure that the development of Ogoni land is placed beyond any form of politics.

On Thursday, June 2, 2016, Governor Wike

set aside political differences and accorded the representative of the president the respect due his office. The entire Rivers State Executive Council and leaders of the state were at the Port Harcourt International Airport to receive the Vice- President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo, and also to bid him farewell upon the conclusion of his assignment in the state.

The governor worked round the clock to create the right environment for the event to succeed. He has also set up the right framework for the clean- up process which will last about three decades to succeed.

As the people’s governor, Nyesom Wike outlined his thoughts for the improvement of the Ogoni environment and the entire Niger Delta community.

He said his administration will provide the required platform for the successful clean-up of Ogoni land. He pledged the total support of the Rivers State Government for the exercise.

He said: “On our part, the Rivers State Government will ever be willing to provide the platform for a smooth achievement of this long awaited intervention. We acknowledge that this is a federal initiative.

The direct impact is borne by our people.

We therefore urge all our stakeholders to embrace and support this federal government gesture and ensure a hitch-free exercise “.

The governor commended President Buhari for initiating the clean up exercise, noting that the presence of top officials of the Rivers State Government indicated

that the state would fully support the exercise. He noted: “We therefore welcome this initiative wholeheartedly as shown by our enthusiastic presence, believing that the recommendations of UNEP will be systematically executed. This is because we believe that only environmental justice would restore sustainable peace, stability and socio-economic progress in the Niger Delta.

“We are therefore commend Mr. President’s determination to close this ugly chapter in our country’s history. Although this has taken long in coming; it is never too late when it comes to the environment.

Therefore, Mr. President Sir, your presence in Ogoniland today is a testimonial of the long awaited clean-up and remediation exercises of the Niger Delta polluted environment.”

The governor stated that the entire Niger Delta has been subjected to the worst forms of environmental degradation ever experienced by mankind in this part of the world.

He said that millions of barrels of oil have been spilled into the environment by companies exploiting and extracting hydrocarbons from the area with severe consequences to the ecosystem, including wildlife, marine habitations, soil and water quality and human health.

According to him: “Despite continuing protests by the people, the environmental degradation of the Niger Delta has not stopped. Oil spills continue to occur with distressing regularity even in Ogoniland, where oil exploitation had since 1993 ceased.

As the UNEP Report starkly reveals, the

degree of environmental damage in the Niger Delta has been so deep and expansive that it would take several decades to carry out full remediation of impacted sites. The UNEP report, which is the precursor to today’s event, is significant for at least, two reasons. First, it presents the best available and factually detailed documentation of the scale of the existing and continuing damage to the entire Ogoni environment and by extension, the Niger Delta.

Second and most significantly, it presents a clear roadmap on the priorities for action by government, stakeholders and the international community in terms of clean-up, remediation and restoration of the damage that has accumulated over the years.”

Governor Wike has continued to work for the Ogoni people and other ethnic nationalities in Rivers State. Already, work has been intensified on the the dualisation of the Sakpenwa-Bori Road which was flagged off by the governor recently. The rehabilitation of the Birabi Memorial Grammar School in Bori is on course. The governor is a statesman who works for the people at all times.

While the opposition thinks of elections, Governor Wike thinks of the development of Rivers State.

Those who struggled to manipulate the flag off to generate crisis in Rivers State have failed once again. They have discovered that the governor’s popularity is deep-rooted and cannot be shaken by mere propaganda and cheap plots.

Nwakaudu is Special Assistant to the Rivers State Governor on Electronic Media

15

T H I S D AY • WEDNESDAY, JUNE 8, 2016

EDITORIAL WHEN DESPERATION MEETS DEATH Africa leaders could do more to put their economies in order

T

he desperation of migrants from Nigeria and other African countries to crossover to Europe through the Mediterranean Sea has continued to claim thousands of lives. In the latest tragedy involving more than 700 refugees in three shipwrecks, according to the United Nations (UNHRC), scores of bodies were recovered from the sea off the coast of Libya. “There were many women and children on board,” said Giovanna Di Benedetto, spokeswoman for Save the Children. The men, women and children attempting these perilous journeys were from many countries including Eritrea, Afghanistan, Somalia and Nigeria.

The latest incident was one in a series of tragedies that have claimed thousands of lives, especially from our continent in the past five years. For instance, within a period of one week between April 13 and April 20 this year, five boats carrying no fewer than 2,000 Europebound migrants sank with a combined death toll estimated at 1,200 people. In October 2013, more than 500 people drowned WE NEED TO EMBARK while attempting the ON AN AGGRESSIVE journey to Europe from CAMPAIGN TO the North African REORIENTATE THE MINDS coast. In 2014, around OF MANY YOUNG PEOPLE 3,500 people also THAT THE GRASS MAY drowned attempting INDEED NOT BE GREENER the same journey; and ON THE OTHER SIDE in one incident in April 2015, more than 800 people lost their lives.

According to the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), no fewer than 3,778 persons fleeing conflicts and poverty perished last year in the Mediterranean Sea while all the tragedies were recorded against the backdrop of the refusal by several European Union (EU) governments to fund the Italian-run rescue operations. However, as we stated in the past, the issue for us should not be what the European countries did or refused to do to allow immigrants from our continent on their shores but rather what we are doing to prevent

Letters to the Editor

F

such tragedies that have become a routine affair.

What is particularly disturbing is that while there are serious discussions in Europe about how to tackle the humanitarian challenge, African leaders do not seem to care that their people would rather risk death at sea than stay in their own countries where opportunities are shrinking by the day. More specifically, despite the fact that several of our nationals were reported to have perished alongside others, there has been no coherent response from the Nigerian authorities.

It is even all the more disturbing given recent revelations by the U.N. Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) that traffickers and gangs in Nigeria were now exploiting the migration crisis to move girls to Libya, before crossing the Mediterranean to Italy on overloaded boats.

Indeed, statistics from the IOM revealed that about 5,600 Nigerian women and girls arrived in Italy by sea last year, up from 1,200 in 2014, yet majority of them were trafficked for sex work. Again, no fewer than 1,250 Nigerian women have landed in Italy this year, up from 373 in the same period in 2015, according to IOM. T H I S DAY

EDITOR IJEOMA NWOGWUGWU DEPUTY EDITOR BOlAJI ADEBIYI MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOlA BEllO DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR KAYODE KOMOlAfE CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OlUSEGUN ADENIYI EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN

T H I S DAY N E W S PA P E R S L I M I T E D

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOlA BEllO, KAYODE KOMOlAfE, ISRAEl IWEGBU, EMMANUEl EfENI, IJEOMA NWOGWUGWU GROUP FINANCE DIRECTOR OlUfEMI ABOROWA DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS PETER IWEGBU, fIDElIS ElEMA, MBAYIlAN ANDOAKA, ANTHONY OGEDENGBE DEPUTY DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OJOGUN VICTOR DANBOYI SNR. ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR ERIC OJEH ASSOCIATE DIRECTORS HENRY NWACHOKOR, SAHEED ADEYEMO CONTROLLERS ABIMBOlA TAIWO, UCHENNA DIBIAGWU, NDUKA MOSERI GENERAL MANAGER PATRICK EIMIUHI GROUP HEAD fEMI TOlUfASHE ART DIRECTOR OCHI OGBUAKU II DIRECTOR, PRINTING PRODUCTION CHUKS ONWUDINJO

H

owever, it should come as no surprise. Today, we live in a country where many are not only poor but cannot find jobs. Factories are closing down and selling their warehouses to promoters of religious organisations while several businesses have been forced to shutdown or moving out of the country due to lack of infrastructure. In the circumstance, young and vibrant youths are leaving the country to embark on journeys which for many of them tragically end at sea. But there is also a mindset that needs to be dealt with.

Even when government does all it should, there are those who believe they can only make it abroad and will do anything to travel outside the shores of the country.

So apart from improving on the socio-economic structures of our country, we need to embark on an aggressive campaign to reorientate the minds of many young people that the grass may indeed not be greener on the other side.

TO SEND EMAIL: first name.surname@thisdaylive.com

TO OUR READERS Letters in response to specific publications in THISDAY should be brief (150-200 words) and straight to the point. Interested readers may send such letters along with their contact details to opinion@thisdaylive.com. We also welcome comments and opinions on topical local, national and international issues provided they are well-written and should also not be longer than (9501000 words). They should be sent to opinion@thisdaylive.com along with the email address and phone numbers of the writer.

LAGOS’RENEWED DRIVE FOR WEALTH CREATION

rom all available indices, there are apparent signs of extreme poverty across the world. Nigeria, according to a 2013 World Bank data, is one of the top five countries with poor people.

Understandably, the poverty situation in Africa has direct connection with unemployment. In Nigeria, unemployment has become a time bomb.That our country is in deep-rooted unemployment web is further confirmed by the highlights of the Unemployment and Underemployment Watch for first quarter of 2015.

According to the report, a total of 17.7 million people between ages 15 and 65 were either unemployed or underemployed in the labour force in the first quarter of 2015. The report further asserted that the number of unemployed people (861,110 people) in the first quarter of 2015 was more than the number of employed people within the same period (504,596 persons).

It is in order to frontally address the poverty and unemployment situation in the country that the Lagos State Government under the leadership of Governor Akinwunmi Ambode has given top priority to wealth creation and poverty eradication.

Indeed, one of the very first tasks performed by Governor Ambode upon his inauguration was the creation of a Ministry of Wealth Creation and Employment with the sole aim of solving the unemployment quandary in the state. The ministry is to give identity to unemployed youths in the state and also provide business support services for small businesses and entrepreneurs.

The ministry has since come up with many initiatives aimed at enhancing wealth creation. One of is such is tagged Equal Opportunity for all in a Competitive Environment which cuts across the five divisions of the state. It is aimed at sensitising Lagos residents about

job opportunities in the state and the various skills needed to be suitable for such. Equally related to this is the empowerment initiative that is done in collaboration with stakeholders both in the public and private sectors. The major goal is to boost the employability and entrepreneurship ability of the youth in particular and Lagos residents in general. It is equally meant to compliment government’s efforts in reducing graduate unemployment.

The pilot effort, which was done in partnership with Chapel of Christ the Light Youth Empowerment Initiative (CYEI) is already serving as a catalyst being projected to bring about over 2000 business start-ups and over 8,500 jobs by the Year 2020. It is important to stress that CYEI now has in place a government approved facility for entrepreneurship studies and ICT employability skills training. The programme offers a wide range of courses covering 21 special ICT certificate aligned courses, 58 other ICT as well as seven employability training programmes.

In order to create the conducive environment that will further stimulate wealth creation among Lagos residents, the state government recently domesticated the federal government’s policy on micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs). Similarly, the Ambode administration recently inaugurated the state council on MSMEs for proper coordination in the state. The council would identify MSMEs operating in the state to help enhance their productivity and enable them to serve as the bedrock for the economic development of the state.

As a further step to encourage growth of MSME, the state government recently held the maiden edition of its MSME fair in collaboration with Konga Online Shopping Ltd. The event was principally designed to promote locally made products, create employment and generate wealth. The maiden edition availed local entrepreneurs

opportunity to exhibit their products for prospective consumers.

Governor Ambode was among the numerous callers that were on hand to catch a glimpse of the numerous locally produced items that were on display at the fair.

In order to ensure that the required workforce to enhance the operations of MSMEs in the state is readily available, the state government is equally boosting technical education in the state. Technical education prepares people for specific trades, crafts and careers at various levels.

It is based on manual or practical activities, related to a specific trade, occupation, or vocation. It makes the trainee develop expertise or skill in a particular group of techniques. To boost technical education in Lagos, the state government is partnering with Samsung and others with the required expertise in developing technical education through infrastructural development and provision of equipment.

It must be affirmed that enormous potentialities are to be explored both in the private and public sector by those with the required vocational skills as there is high demand for technical skills in the state and the country in general. This sometimes necessitates sourcing for skilled professionals from neighbouring countries to fill the gap.

Perhaps the most creative and strategic step taken thus far by the state government to create wealth and tackle unemployment is the establishment of an N25 billion Employment Trust Fund (ETF). The aim of the Fund is to address unemployment and promote wealth creation through entrepreneurial development. The scheme is hinged on a strategic plan by the state government to make an annual contribution of N6.25 billion for four years by which time the Fund would have reached the projected N25 billion mark.

Tayo Ogunbiyi, Ministry of Information & Strategy, Secretariat, Alausa, Lagos

16

T H I S D AY • WEDNESDAY,JUNE 8, 2016

MIDWEEKPOLITICS

Group Politics Editor Olawale Olaleye Email wale.olaleye@thisdaylive.com 08116759819 SMS ONLY

THE NEWSMAKER

Buhari: Still on the Soap Box One year after his failure to chart a distinct developmental path for the nation, President Muhammadu Buhari is still literarily on the soap box, making promises and canvassing intentions. Iyobosa Uwugiaren writes

Buhari, during is swearing-in...he is still in the campaign mood, one year after

E

ven President Muhammadu Buhari could not celebrate his first anniversary in office. He merely addressed Nigerians on May 29, through a nationwide broadcast, and practically grieved over the circumstances that inhibited his inability to keep to his campaign promises in the last one year.

“It has been a year of triumph, consolidation, pains and achievements. By age, instinct and experience, my preference is to look forward, to prepare for the challenges that lie ahead and rededicate the administration to the task of fixing Nigeria,” the President stated.

But like a proverbial Lizard, who fell from Iroko tree, the President, nevertheless, pounded his chest, praising himself for his consistent efforts to rescue Nigeria from the hands of those, who want to destroy it. He recently reminded Nigerians how he had rallied the support of the international community: the G7, the US, France and the UN against the Islamic terrorist group, Boko Haram, and that today, his efforts had paid off, that the terrorists had lost their capacity to carry out the kind of spectacular attacks for which they became infamous.

Just as his “administration has largely succeeded in fighting terrorists,” Buhari impressed it on his audience how he is also squarely taking on corruption, and winning the war. He told Nigerians how he had recovered billions of dollars from former President Goodluck Jonathan’s men including the $2.1 billion arms fund, meant to procure arms and ammunition for the Nigerian soldiers to fight Boko Haram.

“We are also engaged in making recoveries of stolen assets some of which are in different jurisdictions. The processes of recovery can be tedious and time-consuming, but today I can confirm that thus far, significant amount of assets have been recovered. A considerable portion of these is at different stages of recovery,” Buhari said.

On the nation’s economy, President Buhari reminded Nigerians how the nation had lost a sizeable chunk of its earnings to the massive crash in the price of oil, which had crashed from over $100 to about $30 a barrel. He said for a mono-product economy, this is nothing short of disaster; but that his administration had decided to turn this disaster to a blessing by diversifying the economy away from oil to agriculture, solid minerals, culture and tourism in order to rejuvenate the economy.

With these efforts on, Buhari added that his

Ask many Nigerians today about Buhari’s promises – the popular response will surely be disappointment and restlessness…Most Nigerians surely voted for him on the basis of fabled tales of his past: a no-nonsense person, who will “whip”everybody to line through the instrumentality of law.

But today, the greatest disappointment of all, especially for Buhari’s supporters, is that he has not inspires hope for them and the nation in the last one years

administration had decided to plug all financial loopholes through the Treasury Singles Account (TSA), into which over N2trillion had been accrued – funds that ordinarily would have gone into private pockets. The President cited other things he is doing to reposition the country.

“For too long, ours has been a society that neglects the poor and victimises the weak; a society that promotes profit and growth over development and freedom; a society that fails to recognise that to quote the distinguished economist Amartya Sen, “Poverty is not just lack of money; it is not having the capability to realise one’s full potential as a human being,” he stated.

But in spite of Buhari’s self-acclaimed achievements and his lamentation over why he couldn’t function effectively in the last 365 days in office, there is a swelling public opinion that the president is still literarily on the soap box, where political promises and intentions are canvassed.

Some of his ardent critics, including knowledgeable scholars, Professor Ben Nwabuze, had repeatedly canvassed that Buhari, an uninspiring public speaker with faint voice, though has a commanding persona with head and shoulders taller than virtually everybody else, does not have the capacity to govern Nigeria, even though a few of his ardent and cult-like followers would not accept this harsh verdict.

Buhari won the 2015 general election, after running for the office for about 12 years with several promises to turn the nation around.

During his campaign, he did everything to make the general public, including the international community, appreciate that he was not the Buhari they once knew – a die-hard military dictator, who entertains no opposition.

Assisted with very experienced political communicators and spin-doctors in both tradition and new media, he was “well-packaged” for the public. Unlike the real Buhari who is used

to his Fulani attires – flowing babariga and a cap to match at all time, he went as far as wearing an ill-fitting western suit and bow-tie to make the electorate raise the value of his fully conversion.

To sell him to the international community during the presidential campaign, Buhari’s promoters took him to Chatham House, in London, the UK’s foreign policies formulation institute, to convince the public there that although he was a venomous, ruthless military die-hard dictator many years ago, he had become a true democrat, and it worked for them for the election.

With Professor Yemi Osinbajo, a Redeemed Christian Church of God Pastor beside him as running mate, many Nigerians had concluded that Buhari was a new creature, hoping that like the Biblical saying: “old things have passed away, and behold, all things have become new.”

What more? Unlike the Buhari the general public, especially those not old enough in the early 80s, used to know as proponent of George Orwell’s “1984”, the President presented himself during his inaugural presidential speech as a perfectionist for democratic particulars. He had promised not to interfere with the workings of the judiciary and proclaimed the sacrosanctity of the separation of powers among the three arms of government.

For Buhari, who ransacked many prominent politicians’ houses including that of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo, seized their international passports and prevented them from travelling abroad, when he seized power in 1983, the President, had on assuming office, proclaimed that nobody would be barred from traveling abroad.

He had dispensed encomiums on his predecessor, Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, thanking him for “his display of statesmanship in setting a CONTINUED ON PAGE 17

17

T H I S D AY • WEDNESDAY,JUNE 8, 2016

MIDWEEKPOLITICS

BUHARI: STILL ON THE SOAP BOX

Buhari discussing Osinbajo...has change been defined

precedent for us that has now made our people proud to be Nigerians wherever they are.”

By interpretation, Buhari had admitted strongly that Jonathan did what himself failed to do on three different occasions – yielding to defeat at the end of polls – and promised not to go after his enemies. “A few people have privately voiced fears that on coming back to office, I shall go after them. These fears are groundless. There will be no paying off old scores. The past is prologue,” he had said.

However, ask many Nigerians today about Buhari’s promises, the popular response will surely be disappointment and restlessness, even though many of those who know him very well say they are not disappointed about his inability to make possible the “simple deliverables” to Nigerians.

Most Nigerians surely voted for him on the basis of fabled tales of his past: a no-nonsense person, who will “whip” everybody to line through the instrumentality of law. But today, the greatest disappointment of all, especially for Buhari’s supporters, is that he has not inspires hope for them and the nation in the last one years; he has not lived up to the expectations of many Nigerians and as a president, who went round the entire country proclaiming “Change, Change.”

Today, he appears to be confirming the current popular swansong among Nigerians that “all we wanted was change but what we are getting from Buhari is chain.” For many political and economic experts, Buhari’s policies and pronouncements in the last one year has portrayed him as somebody, who has failed woefully to even identify any innovation to socio-political and economic trials of the nation.

To be sure, day after day, many Nigerians are forced to believe that what Buhari and his party, the All Progressives Congress (APC) envisioned all along was just a change of government. And now that this has been consummated, Nigerians can go and drink acid if they like.

“The impression Buhari gives every day is that either he does not have a clue on what exactly to do with his plum office or he has never really believed he would win the election,” Friday Ogierahki, a political commentator said.

“Apart from his suspected plagiarised sentence in his inaugural speech: I belong to everybody and I belong to nobody, all his dealings and public comments in the last one year have not really stimulated hope and confidence among those who elected him.”

The huge expectation of many Nigerians was that since March 28, 2015, when he won the presidential election, the president would have defined his core policy direction. But it took him over six months to even form his cabinet, and nearly a year to start implementing his first national budget. And the president recently acquired a new name: “Baba-go-slow” or “Slowthinking President” etc.

Check the current piping hot issue of fuel scarcity, Buhari has failed woefully but disappointing, to offer positive succour. Throughout his predecessor’s regime, part of the reasons given for the fuel scarcity was the doubt of marketers and banks about the incoming government’s (Buhari) position on the question

Buhari (right) with Oyegun...where is the place of the party in this government

of petroleum subsidy. Until recently when he removed the controversial subsidy, after wasting over N300billion for subsidy payment, when the reality finally dawns on him, he refused to make a definite position on the vexed issue.

At a time, he said the subsidy was a scam.

Before then, the entire nation’s socio-political and economic activities were crippled for over seven months as a result of fuel shortage across the country. Just recently, he finally served Nigerians with iniquitous new fuel price regime of N145 per litre amidst suffocating economic conditions.

In the power sector, Buhari is yet to define his direction. The nation is in total darkness.

During the campaign, the President promised 20,000 megawatts of electricity by 2019. But there is currently no clear roadmap to achieve that. As at May 17, the total amount of power available to Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) to distribute to homes and offices across Nigeria dropped to 1,400 megawatts (MW).

The electricity generation into the national grid has dropped to 1,400MW because of what the TCN described as operational challenges being experienced by gas power generation companies in the country. He had confessed that sabotage and theft of gas were undermining the efforts of his government to increase power supply in the country.

One area Buhari appears to be making wave in the estimation of his admirers is fighting corruption. They claimed billions of dollars have been recovered from the looters in the last one year. But one of the foreign dailies reported recently that UK had committed £860 million in foreign aid to Nigeria, to boost Africa’s largest economy and support the country’s efforts to crush Boko Haram terror group, but claimed that Western officials had raised concerns that President Buhari was misusing the funds to persecute political opponents.

To be sure, since Buhari came to power last May, a number of prominent members of the

Today, he appears to be confirming the current popular swansong among Nigerians that “all we wanted was change but what we are getting from Buhari is chain.”For many political and economic experts, Buhari’s policies and pronouncements in the last one year has portrayed him as somebody, who has failed woefully to even identify any innovation to socio-political and economic trials of the nation

opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have been arrested and detained in the name of fighting corruption without charge. There are reports that hundreds of suspects, including “22 members” of the opposition PDP are being detained in EFCC’s custody across the country, for refusing to sign documents to refund huge amount of fund, majorly campaign funds.

This recently forced many lawyer and human rights advocate to ask the President to order investigations into a variety of acts of impunity and human rights abuses under his government, particularly extra-judicial execution of criminal suspects by the police and the unlawful killing of unarmed civilians including women and children by the armed forces.

There is a near consensus that Buhari is yet to drop his military garment. Records show that last December, the army massacred 347 people in Zaria because the Shiites, members of an Islamic scet were alleged to have disturbed the free flow of traffic, which affected the convoy of the Chief of Army Staff. The bodies of the victims were said to have been secretly buried in a mass grave in Mango, Kaduna State.

Many of Buhari’s followers then supported the army because of the “extremism” of the leader of the sect, El-Zakzaky. The sect leader and his wife have been detained for over six months without trial.

From Kaduna State, the events in the last few weeks show clearly that the troops have since moved down to the Niger Delta region. Under the pretext of looking for the new militant group, the Niger Delta Avengers, many communities including Gbaramatu Kingdom have been sacked while innocent people have been brutally killed.

Hundreds of youths have been arrested in lieu of the criminal militant gang.

According to media reports, two people were recently killed in Effurum, Delta State by an armed soldier for not observing environmental sanitation day. There are similar reports of brutalisation of people including children by the army all over the country where, “military operations” are fast being conducted.

A few days ago, the army reportedly took over and sealed off the Kogi State House of Assembly. Human rights activists recently argued that the violent attack on the MASSOB/IPOB members had to be viewed within the context of the increasing militarisation of national polity.

“Having allowed the armed forces to usurp the constitutional duties of the police, it is now sorrows, tears and blood for the Nigerian people.”

Without any remorse whatsoever, the Nigerian army had announced that it killed five protesters and injured nine others during a rally in Onitsha, Anambra State, even though eyewitnesses put the casualties at 30. Many constitutional lawyers wonder why the federal government was not willing to respect the constitution, which provides that the armed forces can only be invited by the president to aid the police in case of insurrection or mutiny.

Many Nigerians are however not disappointed about Buhari’s supercilious and dictatorial posturing. A renowned constitutional lawyer, Professor Nwabuze (SAN) recently said that Buhari is not going in the direction of democratic rule. And he is not surprised considering his antecedents.

Apart from his cult-like followers, there are steps clear to sound minds that Buhari is not a born again democrat. First, he ruled this country after May 29 for six months without ministers contrary to the constitution. The constitution does not confer out-and-out power on the President to rule anyhow.

The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) stated recently that Nigeria’s real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth rate had declined to -0.36 per cent in the first quarter of this year compared to 2.11 per cent in Q4 of 2015, This negative GDP growth apparently confirms an earlier statement by the Minister of Information, Alhaji Lai Mohammed that the federal government was broke.

The unemployment rate has also climbed to 12.1 per cent in the first quarter of this year compared to 10.4 per cent in Q4 of 2015 and 9.9 per cent in the Q3 of 2015. For many, therefore, it is not a question of not being prepared for his office. The fact is that he lacks the capacity to govern as the problems are beyond him.

Like what Professor Nwabuze said, even if you give Buhari 20 years to prepare, it would still be beyond his capacity. Nwabuze’s argument is that Nigeria is a very complex country with over 389 ethnic nationalities and the complexities and the issues involved in ruling such a country are huge, which requires an intellectual issue, and Buhari does not have the intellectual capacity to comprehend what it means to govern the country.

They might be wrong, but many people believe the president has lost the opportunity to kindle an agenda. There are difficult decisions he needed to make but he squandered the huge opportunities and goodwill. He has failed to announce a Marshall Plan for the crisis-ridden North East destroyed by Boko Haram. He failed woefully to announce a call-to-arms for a return to agricultural revolution fired by his predecessor, which would have become a symbol of hope for Nigerians.

On security, the situation is almost the same: slow progress fighting terrorism. Buhari promised to deal effectively with Boko Haram in two months when he gets to office. He has since tried to back-pedal from this unrealistic deadline. But at his inauguration, he made another promise that is currently haunting him. “We cannot claim to have defeated Boko Haram without rescuing the Chibok girls and all other innocent persons held hostage by insurgents,” he had stated.

Now, Buhari is saying: “We do not know if the Chibok girls can be rescued. Their whereabouts remain unknown. As much as I wish to, I cannot promise that we can find them.” A few weeks ago, there was seemingly calculated, questionable move to change the narrative of Chibok girls with the controversial discovery of two of the girls in Sambisa Forest.

Politically, Nigeria has never been divided since the nation’s independence than now. The country is sharply divided between the South and the North and between the Muslims and the Christians. With his preferential treatment for the north that gave him 95 % votes, it is becoming very difficult for a nation of over 170 million-population to plan integration. Buhari and his staff need to be quick learners because they still do not get it.

18

T H I S D AY • WEDNESDAY,JUNE 8, 2016

UPDATE&TRENDING

MIDWEEKPOLITICS

Oshiomhole on the streets ... chance for a successor.

Oshiomhole in Dilemma over Edo Governorship

As the frenzy heightens over Edo State governorship, analysts see some of the antics of Governor Adams Oshiomhole in the desire to install a choice successor as what might undo him, writes Davidson Iriekpen

F

ive months from now, precisely in November, Governor Adams Oshiomhole will cease to be the occupant of Osadebey Avenue, Benin City, the seat of government in Edo State after administering the state for the mandatory two terms of eight years. As usual, a lot of aspirants are already jostling to succeed to him. It is therefore not a surprise that the political atmosphere in the state is already heating up as politicians in all the registered political parties are dotting their ‘Is’ and crossing their ‘Ts’, strategising to win their parties’ tickets and succeed the comrade governor.

In the state ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), those who have indicated interest in taking over from Oshiomhole are a two-time senator and former governor of the state, Prof. Oserheimen Osunbor, incumbent deputy governor, Pius Odubu, former Chief of Staff and current Commissioner for Works, Osarodion Ogie, former Minister of State for Works, Chris Ogienmwonyi, former Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) gubernatorial candidate in 2012, General Charles Airhiavbere (rtd), Chairman of the state trust fund, Godwin Obaseki and Kenneth Imansuagbon, among others.

On the part of the PDP, leading the pack of aspirants jostling to get the party’s flag is former Chief of Staff and Secretary to the State Government under Chief Lucky Igbinedion, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, Solomon Edebiri, Senator Ehigie Uzamere and Matthew Iduoriyekemwen.

But for the victory of the APC in the presidential election, the intensity of the jostling to succeed Oshiomhole from his party would have been less because of the bandwagon effect of the PDP performance in the National Assembly elections, where it won two of the three senatorial seats and shared the 10 House of Representatives seats equally with the APC. The PDP had hoped to use the expected victory as a launch pad to take over the House of Assembly banking on expected bandwagon effect and thereafter begin an impeachment process against Oshiomhole.

However, this was not to be as the APC victory in the presidential election changed the tide that eventually led to the party winning an overwhelming majority in the state legislature to the extent that it won for the first time, two out of the five seats in Edo central.

Though to many analysts, the factors that will

influence the choice of who becomes Oshiomhole’s successor would include the structure of the party upon which the candidate emerges, his antecedents and most importantly, his ethnic background, all these would depend on how the aspirants is able to play his cards. One thing that is sure is that no serious political party that is contesting the governorship of Edo in 2016, that will not consider the ethnic background of its candidate. The reason being that the ruling APC, which apparently has the upper hand, is most likely going to field a candidate from Edo South senatorial district, which has about 58 per cent of the voting population.

Oshiomhole is from Edo North, the second most populated of the three senatorial zones.

He got into office through the massive support from Edo South (Binis) and their monarch, and is expected to lend his support for a Bini candidate.

For those, who had thought that the incumbent governor would look into the direction of his incumbent deputy, the calculation had long failed as the relationship between the two gladiators has broken down irreconcilably.

Many now rate Odubu as a loner, who the

Rather than make the process of choosing his successor transparent, the governor is alleged to have secretly unveiled his preferred choice, which for all intents and purposes, is believed to bear a gaping historical wound on his best foot and which could prove tragic for the party, if he is allowed to run and fail. Many analysts therefore believe that taking such a decision would be Oshiomhole’s greatest undoing

governor cannot touch with a kilometre-long pole, when it comes to who will pick the governorship mantle of the APC and win the actual election. For him, the issue of Odubu, a Bini does not count because he does not fit into his specification of malleable person.

Osarodion Ogie, the current Commissioner for Works who was initially touted as a likely successor has equally fallen out of favour with his boss, who feels that he may not fit into his idea of a successor that will protect his rear, post-November 12, 2016. Insiders are of the view that the governor’s previous calculations that the Bini Royal Palace will support Ogie, in spite of himself, had been overtaken by some irreversible occurrences that might not favour a pro-Oshiomhole governorship in November 2016.

Rather than make the process of choosing his successor transparent, the governor is alleged to have secretly unveiled his preferred choice, which for all intents and purposes, is believed to bear a gaping historical wound on his best foot and which could prove tragic for the party, if he is allowed to run and fail. Many analysts therefore believe that taking such a decision would be Oshiomhole’s greatest undoing.

As the election approaches, it is becoming clearer that nobody is on the mind of the governor than Mr. Godwin Obaseki. But there are feelings that his foot soldiers might be finding it difficult to sell an Obaseki candidacy. The contention particularly in Edo South and other parts of the state now is that Obaseki, who is believed to have the backing of the mega-businessman, Aliko Dangote, is weighted down by a historical burden that might be his albatross.

Most party members also believe that if the Dangote/Oshiomhole/Obaseki governorship deal pulls through, Obaseki, as the governor of Edo State, will pander to Oshiomhole and concurrently Dangote, who is gradually extending his business empire into the political realm.

Sign that Oshiomhole might not make the process to choosing a successor transparent emanated when he was said to have pointedly told all who cared to listen that he would not be “neutral” on the matter of his successor, a hint that he would have a hand in picking the person to succeed him In a meeting with leaders of the party from the three senatorial zones, Oshiomhole said it would be unnatural to expect him to keep a

distance in the matter. According to him, he would expect his successor to carry on his legacy and diversify the revenue-generation base of the state with the aim of discouraging the unhealthy habit of depending on allocation from the federal government.

“Should I as a governor have no such right to have a voice and a say on the choice of my successor? I cannot be neutral in matters affecting my environment. Even people who are not from Edo State will always tell me to guide them so that Edo will not go back to the past. I will never be afraid to take a position and to explain my position on the basis of my conviction. In a democracy, whether matured or growing, endorsement is legitimate. What I owe Edo people is very clear to me.

“I have heard several things about my person, some said he has anointed one of the candidates, some now call me godfather. There is no question that the governorship candidate of this party will be produced through primaries. In the last elections, House of Assembly, National Assembly and presidential elections, we held primaries.

“So when people make those statements, I just laugh. So this governor has no powers to impose anybody on our party and certainly anybody on our state. I am proud to say that we have more than 60 political parties, why is it that everybody wants to run on APC platform?

Why not Labour Party or PDP? It is on the strength of the performance of the government that I am privileged to head.”

For now, what a cross-section of the APC governorship aspirants and members are said to be waiting for before massively defect from the party is the emergence of a candidate by imposition or any stroke of it as the party’s standard bearer.

However, for the PDP, it is clear that Ize-Iyamu is the candidate to beat for the ticket ahead of the party’s primary election on June 18. Already, seeing his formidable grassroots support and mobilisation, some of his fellow aspirants are renouncing their bid to support him.

Many analysts believe that one thing that would work in favour of Ize-Iyamu should he secure the PDP ticket is the rancour in the APC between Oshiomhole and his deputy, Odubu on the one hand and the alleged plot by the governor to endorse any candidate against the wishes of the members of the APC on the other hand.

19

T H I S D AY • WEDNESDAY,JUNE 8, 2016

ONTHEWATCH

MIDWEEKPOLITICS

Ondo PDP and the Burden of Mimiko’s Successor The jostling for the 2016 gubernatorial election in Ondo State is gathering momentum, but the rather uninspiring activities among the intending governorship hopefuls in the Peoples Democratic Party are already eliciting insinuations amongst members. James Sowole writes

F

or reasons anybody can think of, one of the wishes of any ruling political party is to remain in power for as long as it is possible to do so. Also, a major wish of any person at the helm of administration in a democratic setting, either as governor or president is to install a credible and trust worthy successor.

In Nigeria, the period of searching for somebody that will take over power from an incumbent governor of a state or a president, who is about to complete the two terms allowed by the constitution is always a sensitive one, which always involves consideration of several factors.

The burden becomes more complex when the popularity of the ruling political party is dwindling or when the people feel that the person at the helm of the Executive arm of the government is no longer living up to his billings.

It is a known fact that when a situation like this arises, opposition party becomes more emboldened to explore all avenues that will ensure that the ruling party loses the next election. Naturally, the ruling party on the other hand would not fold its arms and fall prey to the roaring lion and as such, permutation, maneuvering and sometimes impunity become the remedy.

In Ondo State, choosing a Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate that can match the roaring All Progressives Congress (APC) in the November 2016 gubernatorial election in the Sunshine State of Ondo has become one issue that is already generating discomfort, not only among leaders and members of the party but also in the circle of the opposition party and the politically conscious populace.

As at the time of filling this report, not less than six persons have indicated interest to jostle for the PDP ticket ahead of the pending election.

They are former member of the House of Representatives, who represented Akoko North East/Akoko North West between 2007-2011 and former Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Hon Gbenga Otolorin wElegbeleye; former Speaker of the Ondo State House of Assembly, Hon Bakita Bello; the current Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Chief Bamiduro Dada and the former Deputy Speaker of the Ondo State House of Assembly, Hon Dare Emiola.

Other aspirants are the Ondo State Coordinator of the Private Public Partnership and Owo Prince, Nekan Olateru-Olagbegi, Senator Remi Okunrunboye, the current Commissioner for Environment and Mineral Resources, Chief Sola

Another issue believed to be bothering the PDP ahead of the next gubernatorial election is the body language of the incumbent governor himself. Though some of the aspirants have started holding consultations over their ambition, none of them has been bold enough to come out in full blast…As at the time filling this report none of the PDP aspirants had opened a visible campaign or coordinating office or embarked on any open campaign unlike what is being witnessed in the fold of the opposition APC

Mimiko during his re-election declaration...can he do it again

Ebiseni and the current Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice in Ondo State, Mr Eyitayo Jegede SAN. A major burden is the question of which senatorial district should produce the next governor. The question arises because the three senatorial districts had produced the governor at one time or the other.

Some people were of the opinion that since the first governor produced at the beginning of this current Fourth Republic in 1999 came from the Northern Senatorial District with the late Chief Adebayo Adefarati at the helms of affairs before it moved to the Southern Senatorial District in 2003, when the late Dr. Olusegun Agagu was elected and now Dr. Olusegun Mimiko of the Central Senatorial District, the arrangement should be maintained.

On the other hand, some were of the belief that since the governorship had gone round the three districts, the next arrangement can start from any of the three districts. Interestingly, all those that have indicated interest in the race cut across the three areas.

While Bakkita Bello, Gbenga Elegbeleye, Bamiduro Dada and Dare Emiola, Remi Okunrinboye and Nekan Olateru-Olagbegi are from the Ondo North, Sola Ebiseni hailed from Ilaje Local Government area in Ondo South while Eyitayo Jegede is an indigene of Akure in the Central Senatorial District.

When talking of the Ondo North, it is subdivided into Akoko and Owo/Ose areas. Thus, while Elegbeleye, Bello, Dada and Emiola are of the Akoko extraction, Okunrinboye and OlateruOlagbegi are from Owo that produced the first governor of the state in 1979 in the person of the late Chief Adekunle Ajasin. And since Owo and Akoko had produced the number one citizen at one time or the other, it is being canvassed that Ose should have its shot at the governorship.

Also, the Akure Agenda which aimed at

promoting the current Commissioner for Justice, Eyitayo Jegede had generated controversies among the people with complaints that those calling for the agenda were being unfair to other areas as the Central Senatorial District was the only one that had produced the governor back to back and set the record of completion of two consecutive terms.

Another burden confronting the PDP is the issue of dichotomy between the old PDP members and the New PDP members. Though the dichotomy seems to have been resolved at the State Delegate Congress of the party with the sharing of party’s elective positions, the issue is still in the consciousness of members.

According to the people, the old PDP members were those who had joined the party before Mimiko came into the party while the New PDP members were those that moved particularly from the Labour Party (LP) under which Mimiko contested and won election for the two terms.

Looking at the current list of aspirants, it is only from the Northern Senatorial District and Akoko to be specific that old PDP members showed interest in the race as at the time of filling this report while the two from Owo are of the New PDP like the only aspirant from Ilaje, Ondo South.

Another issue believed to be bothering the PDP ahead of the next gubernatorial election is the body language of the incumbent governor himself. Though some of the aspirants have started holding consultations over their ambition, none of them has been bold enough to come out in full blast.

As at the time filling this report none of the PDP aspirants had opened a visible campaign or coordinating office or embarked on any open campaign unlike what is being witnessed in the fold of the opposition APC. APC aspirants had taken over vacant apartments in most buildings on the stretch of the popular Oyemekun-Adesida Road. All that some of them had done were

the production and pasting of posters, stickers early this year, which had faded out and the use of social media as an avenue for campaign.

When asked the PDP aspirants when they would launch their campaign, the response has always been “We are still watching the Oga, the Governor”. The reason for the waiting for the master may not be far- fetched. All of them, apart from Elegbeleye and Emiola, are members of the current administration in the capacity of commissioner or coordinator of one thing or the other.

The dwindling popularity of the incumbent PDP administration occasioned mainly by the nationwide downturn in the economy which had made many states including Ondo not to fulfill the expectations to their workforce has constituted a major issue on the neck of the party.

Though the issue is not peculiar to PDP states as many states under the APC control also have problems paying salaries of workers, the case of Ondo became more worrisome because of the approaching election and the increasing propaganda of the opposition party.

Directly related to the above is the consideration of who among the aspirants can muster the necessary financial resources required for a gubernatorial election project. However, getting financial muscle is one thing and the acceptability of the person by the majority is another matter.

Despite these concerns, it is generally believed that the Master of Game himself, Iroko is keeping his cool to avoid pre and post primary crisis, which may arise should he give an open directive to all to embark on elaborate campaign, more importantly majority of aspirants are part of his administration. THISDAY gathered that the governor was considering a situation whereby the number of aspirants would be pruned down considerably or if possible, a situation that would produce a consensus candidate.

20

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 8, 2016 • T H I S D AY

FEATURES

Acting Features Editor Charles Ajunwa Email charles.ajunwa@thisdaylive.com

Celebrating Nigeria's Giants

Eminent Nigerians were honoured recently in Lagos at the 20th anniversary of Hallmarks of Labour Foundation. Peter Uzoho who covered the event, reports

I

t was an assemblage of the crème de la crème in Nigeria at the Ballroom of the Lagos Oriental Hotel on Sunday, May 22, 2016.

Better seen than told, those big names from the academia ranging from former and serving Vice Chancellors were there. The great legal luminaries turned up. Politicians of high pedigree also graced the occasion. Also not left out were past and present senior public and civil servants, medical gurus, management experts, notable diplomatic figures, were conspicuously present at the event.

Also, the religious community was not left out; reverend fathers decked in their priestly attires and the Royal Highnesses adorned in their befitting apparels graced the 20th anniversary and role model award ceremony of Hallmarks of Labour Foundation.

Prior to entering the hall for the event, cocktail was observed within which the guests met their old friends, relatives, colleagues and associates, exchanging pleasantries with one another, while sipping some wine.

Shortly after, guests were majestically ushered in and the event started in full swing. To fulfill the Nigerian tradition, the national anthem of the Federal Republic of Nigeria was sung to invoke the spirit of national unity.

Following the flow of programme with military precision, the Chaiman, Board of Trustees, Hallmarks of Labour Foundation, Prof.Umaru Shehu, was called up to the podium to deliver his welcome speech.

In his welcome speech, Shehu said the Foundation has done quite well in the past 20 years, particularly in re-orientating Nigerians.

“The Hallmarks of Labour is 20 years old, and as I look back at these past 20 years, it occurred to me that the Foundation has done quite well, particularly, in re-orientating Nigerians from a culture of crass materialism and primitive acquisition of wealth, to that of honesty, integrity and commitment to service of our community and the nation in general.

“To this end, we have identified several great men and women who are worthy of emulation and whose records constitute a great inspiration for future generations. In other words, we have been able to give our younger generation, an opportunity to make a choice on which way to go as we continue

The Hallmarks of Labour is 20 years old, and as I look back at these past 20 years, it occurred to me that the Foundation has done quite well, particularly, in re-orientating Nigerians from a culture of crass materialism and primitive acquisition of wealth, to that of honesty, integrity and commitment to service of our community and the nation in general

Jakande (middle), recipient of the HLF Role Model Award for Excellence in Leadership and Good Governance

Prof. Sagay (middle), winner of the HLF- Award for Exemplary Courageous Service to Advancement of our Legal System. Flanked on left by Chief Rita LoriOgbebor,Chief Brown Mene, Chief Tesigweno Pessu and Chief Felix Esisi

to provide them with worthy inspirations.

“From our role model awards, we successfully ventured into the publication of the Hallmarks of Labour book series (now in its 8th volume), scholarship scheme for secondary and tertiary students, youth and women empowerment programmes, community development, and excellence awards for deserving individuals and institutions,” Shehu noted.

He continued: “Our modest attainment have been made possible largely with the active support of quite a number of individuals and corporate bodies, some of them are

represented here today.

“Today’s programme is not only designed to mark our 20 years of operation, but also to celebrate another set of role models who have distinguished themselves in their fields of endeavour and strengthened our resolve that our country, Nigeria, is far from being a lost case.

“We congratulate them all; they are indeed worthy ambassadors for Nigeria and Africa.

I have no doubt that the people of Nigeria are indeed fortunate to be blessed with all of them within this same generation,” Shehu said.

The chairman of the occasion and former

Commonwealth Secretary-General, Chief Emeka Anyaoku, in his keynote address, said, “the Hallmarks of Labour Foundation has come a long way from 1996 when it was conceived against the background of growing decay in the moral fabric of the Nigerian society with the pursuit and worshipping of money, creating negative role models.

“Hallmarks of Labour Foundation is also a philanthropic organisation having over the years acted as a platform for the mentoring of the youth through workshops and symposia, in order to help them realise their potentials with honesty and integrity, a platform for

21

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 8, 2016 • T H I S D AY

FEATURES

Winner of HLF Role Model Award for Exemplary Leadership in the Advancement of our Legal System-Hon. Justice Mukhtar (3rd right) flanked on left by Prof. Irukwu, Chief Ordia,Chief Olakunri,Chief Anyaoku,Mrs Emanuel, Mrs Arawore

HLF presents computer to the best school in WASSCE 2014- Lumen Christi International, Uromi

empowering the weak, the indigent, the dispossessed and vulnerable through such projects as community development, endowment of scholarship schemes, and a platform for offering assistance to widows in the society,” Anyaoku said.

Not failing to commend the initiator and Executive Secretary of Hallmarks of Labour Foundation, Mrs. Patricia Utuedon-Arawore for her noble project, Anyaoku said “I would like all of us here to join in specially commending the initiator and driving force of the HLF, Mrs. Patricia Utuedon-Arawore, for her exemplary initiative, determination, courage and an untiring commitment to a cause that is noble, a cause that is entirely positive in its national and international symbolism.”

Anyaoku also congratulated the recipient of the HLF-Anyaoku Life Time Achievement Award for Nigeria’s Most International Icon, Prof. Ibrahim Gambari, describing him “as truly one of Nigeria’s most distinguished internationalists, having served Nigeria and the United Nations with distinction in many renowned international positions.”

At this juncture, a documentary of previous activities, programmes and projects of the Hallmarks of Labour Foundation were played as the guests watched the visuals with keen interest. Subsequently, a minute silence was observed in honour of the departed awardees of the Foundation.

Intermittently, there was music rendition as an opera singer; Chioma Igbojekwe, in company of Vivache Group, was on ground entertaining the guests and driving any looming sleep off the scene.

Hallmarks of Labour Role Model Awards of different category were presented to eminent Nigerians for their noble contributions to the nation, which they received with high sense of gratitude, in company of their entourage.

However, in returning appreciation, the awardees took turn to thank Hallmarks of Labour Foundation for deeming them worthy of such honour and recognition, while encouraging them never to relent, but to continue with their good work.

“Let me first of all congratulate the Foundation for organising this ceremony. I congratulate them for living for 20 years. They are doing a great service for Nigeria. The Foundation has done a lot and got many Nigeria’s to understand that service is our duty”, the first civilian Governor of Lagos State and recipient of the HLF Role Model Award for Excellence in Leadership and Good Governance, Alhaji Lateef Kayode Jakande, said.

I feel particularly honoured that I’m receiving this award in the midst of eminent Nigerians. I will like to dedicate this award to the IDPs in the whole world because I have had opportunity to serve in many conflict areas and the worst thing that can happen to any human being is to be an IDP within his or her own country

Professor Akinkugbe presents a plaque to the winners of the Young Achievers Awards- Lumen Christi International Uromi, that emerged Best Performing School in WASSCE 2014

Prof. Ben Nwabueze (right) presents the plaque for Exemplary Courageous Service to the Advancement of our Legal System to Prof. Sagay

“I thank them very much and I want them to carry on their job so as to carry the message to all Nigerians,” the octogenarian added.

Former Chief Justice of Nigeria and recipient of HLF-Life Time Achievement Award for Exemplary Leadership in the Advancement of Our Legal System, Hon. Justice Mariam Aloma Mukhtar, commended the Foundation for the honour done her. ”I commend the Foundation for its zeal and effort in raising the standard of education in Nigeria. I also commend the Foundation for thinking me worthy or deserving of this award. The gesture will remain very close to my heart and I will cherish the award forever.”

Prof. Njidda Gadzama, who received the HLF-Umaru Shehu Life Time Award for the Most Consistent Advocate for Positive Change in the University System, dedicated his award to the Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in the North-east.

“I dedicate this award to the suffering IDPs from my local area of Northern Adamawa and Southern Borno, all of the Maji and so many other tribes where remnant of Boko Haram are still active.”

Similarly, Prof. Ibrahim Gambari who bagged the HLF- Emeka Anyaoku Life Time Achievement Award for Nigeria’s Most Outstanding International Icon, dedicated it to the IDPs in the entire world.

“I feel particularly honoured that I’m receiving this award in the midst of eminent Nigerians. I will like to dedicate this award to the IDPs in the whole world because I have had opportunity to serve in many conflict areas and the worst thing that can happen to any human being is to be an IDP within his or her own country.”

Lumen Christi International School, Uromi, Edo State, that was presented with the Award

for Best Performing School in the West African Senior School Certificate (WASSCE) 2014, was further rewarded with a number of computer sets. The Vice Principal of the School, Reverend Father Amos Awonime, thanked the board of Hallmarks of Labour Foundation for their wonderful contribution and encouragement.

“We wish to thank members of the Board of Trustees of Hallmarks of Labour Foundation for your wonderful contribution and encouragement. Your contribution thus becomes a reassurance that there is need for reward for hard work. May the good Lord continue to bless, sustain and fortify your future ambition,” Awonime said.

Rising from the occasion, the initiator and Executive Secretary, Hallmarks of Labour Foundation, Otuedon-Arawore told THISDAY how they were able to package the event.

“It’s been several months of working very hard”, she says, “This Hallmarks of Labour Award takes about six months to organise and we’re very grateful to God. Everybody turned up for this award unlike most award ceremonies. Indeed, the calibre of people remained the same, and I’m grateful to God that all these have come to pass. And I look forward to launching the Hallmarks of Labour book 8th in the next two weeks or a month’s time. So I’m not going back to rest,” Otuedon-Arawore noted.

On her message to Nigerians, she says, “My message to Nigerians is simple one; look at the lives of people who were rewarded tonight and you would find out that the men and women who have been recognised achieved that by dint of hard work and were able to do Nigeria proud.

“I advise young people to look at them and pattern their lives after them. Parents should look at these role models and try to build up their children to be like them.”

22

IMAGES

Abia State Governor, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu (right), and the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Nigeria Export Promotion Council (NEPC), Mr. Olusegun Awolowo, during a visit by the top management of the council to the governor in Umuahia...recently

Members of Fairhope for Children Initiative with pupils of The One Master Model School Ikotun during the Children’s Day celebration, in Lagos...recently

L-R: Mrs Patra Omojewho of Peacock Travels and Tours Limited; the Archbishop of Lagos Catholic Diocese, Archbishop Adewale Martins; the Executive Chairman, Peacock Group of Companies, Chief Segun Phillips; and Head, Pilgrimage Department, Peacock Travels and Tours, Ms. Eno Arcihbong, during Peacock Travel’s pilgrimage department’s courtesy call and blessing visit to the archbishop in Lagos...recently

L-R: Ambassador, MTN Nigeria and singing sensation, Chidinma Ekile; Yello Care Staff competition car winner, Olawunmi Erinosho; and the Human Resources and Corporate Services Executive, Amina Oyagbola, during the opening ceremony of 21 days retreat for Yello Care staff by MTN Nigeria, at Ikoyi, Lagos... recently kola olasupo

T H I S D AY • WEDNESDAY, JUNE 8, 2016

Photo Editor Abiodun Ajala Email abiodun.ajala@thisdaylive.com

L-R: Specialist, Youth Segment, Etisalat Nigeria, Michael Nwoseh; Dean, Student Affairs, Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Prof. M.S Shehu; winner of Cliqfest star prize, a Hyundai i10, Josiah Blessing; Manager, Consumer Segment, Etisalat Nigeria, Debo Agun; and Staff Officer, ABU, Nasir Bambale, during the presentation of car keys to Blessing at ABU, Zaria, Kaduna State...recently

L-R: Marketing Director, Information Systems Audit and Control Association (ISACA), Lagos, Benedict Anyalenkeya; Information and Branding Director, Sola Odediran; President, Tope Aladenusi; and VicePresident, Adeola Willoughby, at the ISACA 2016 annual general meeting, in Lagos...recently

L-R: CEO, AZC Healthcare Management Consultant, Dr. Lasbrey Uzoma Nze, and a Director, Aderonke Fatade, during a presentation of drugs to the Ministry of Health, in Abuja...recently

L-R: Deputy Director, Africa Centre Excellence for Genomics of Infectious Disease (ACEGID), Dr. Onikepe Folarin; Initiator of tReE Funds, Mr. Adedeji Ademola; Dr. Adetunji Akeem representing Osun State deputy governor; and Dr. Arogundade Odunayo representing vice-chancellor, Redeemer’s University, during the Future Leaders’ Summit, by tReE Funds Initiators, at the Redeemer’s University Auditorium, Ede, Osun State...recently

23

T H I S D AY • WEDNESDAY, JUNE 8, 2016

BUSINESSWORLD NIBOR PRIME 1-MONTH

R A T E S

A S

LOAN

4.4583% 9.1071%

3-MONTH 3-MONTH

11.0102% 12.3790%

NITTY 1-MONTH 2-MONTH 3-MONTH

A T

Group Business Editor Chika Amanze-Nwachuku Email chika.amanzenwachukwu@thisdaylive.com 08033294157

M A Y 2 0 , 6.9949% 7.2368% 8.0819%

1-MONTH 9-MONTH 12-MONTH

2 0 1 6

9.2061% 9.5872% 10.5042%

EXCHANGE RATE N197/1US DOLLAR* *AS AT LAST FRIDAY

Quick Takes CAP Plc Wins Award

Chemical and Allied Products (CAP) Plc has won the 2016 Great Place to Work award as one of the best companies to work in Nigeria. CAP Plc, is a subsidiary of UAC of Nigeria Plc (UACN), manufacturers of Dulux paint and the technological licensee of AkzoNobel, world’s largest coatings company.

The award was presented to the company recently at a ceremony organised by the Great Place To Work (GPTW) Institute in Lagos.

CAP Plc was rated among the top eight companies in ‘The Best Companies to Work in Nigeria Category.’ Other companies that made the list include EMC Information System Nigeria Limited, Courteville Business Solutions Plc, Guinness Nigeria Plc, SC Johnson & Son Nigeria Limited, Microsoft Nigeria, Poise Nigeria and Konga Online Shopping Limited. Presenting the award to CAP Plc, the Chairman, Great Place To Work, Nigeria, Mr. Ghandi Olaoye, disclosed that the company emerged as one of the winners of the award having exhibited and maintained global best practices in work place excellence and people management practices. Receiving the award, the Managing Director, CAP Plc, Mrs. Omolara Elemide, described the it as very inspiring, dedicating it to the employees of the company, whose selfless service and commitment continue to propel management to adopt people-oriented policies and culture that promote trust, credibility and mutual respect.

GOOD TO HAVE YOU HERE

L-R: President, National Council , the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE), Mr. Aigboje Aig- Imuokhuede; Speaker House of Representative, Hon Yakubu Dogara and President of the Senate, Senator Bukola Saraki, at a two-day stakeholders meeting on ‘Realising Full Potential of Nigerian Economy through Proactive Capital Market Legislation’, organised by Joint Committee of Senate and House of Representative in conjunction with Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and other stakeholders in Abuja...recently Julius Atoi

BoI Disburses N83.5bn to 776 Enterprises in 2015, Posts N44.7bn Profit James Emejo in Abuja The acting Managing Director, Bank of Industry (BoI), Mr. Waheed Olagunju has disclosed that a total sum of N83.5 billion was disbursed to 776 enterprises by the development finance institution in 2015.

He said the interventions further helped to create over 400,000 jobs for Nigerians.

Speaking in Abuja at the bank’s 56th annual general meeting (AGM), he said in spite of the challenging global economy and the 2015 election anxiety with its attendant implication for the business environment, the bank still

BANKING recorded a profit after tax (PAT) of N44.7 billion, which represented a 761 percent increase from N5.2 billion in 2014.

The bank’s financial statement for the period also showed it grew operating income by 161 percent to N70.7 billion from N27.1 billion while net loans grew by N1.7 billion to N572 billion within the period in review.

He said the bank will seek to further deepen its developmental impact in both core emerging sectors, drive service delivery excellence, and support

the development to small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the country by leveraging strategic partnership, effectively managing enterprise risks as well as leveraging technology.

Olagunju said also disclosed that a total sum of N95 billion had so far been approved for disbursement to over 400 enterprises as at June this year.

He added that bank was working assiduously to approving more loans in the second half of 2016 to meet institution’s disbursement target of N212 billion which could potentially creation up to 1 million jobs in addition to the 1.6 million projected under GEEP.

He said by a projection of 2.6 million jobs per annum BOI’s interventions could generate more than 10 million jobs over the next four years to reduce unemployment to single digit.

Meanwhile, Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Okechukwu Enelamah commended the bank for posting a sustained “impressive financial performance” since its inception 15 years ago.

The minister said he was also excited that BoI had started implementing the N140 billion Government Enterprise and Empowerment Programme Continued on page 24

BGL Saga: SEC to Strengthen Rules on Managed Funds Goddy Egene The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is to amend rules guiding managed funds and make them more stringent as part of efforts to protect investors in the nation’s capital market.

THISDAY checks revealed that the amendment and introduction of new rules resulted from outcome of BGL Plc saga that led to the banning of its group managing director, Mr. Albert Okumagba from capital market activities for 20 years.

Okumagba and his deputy, Chibundu Edozie were banned

by SEC following the decisions of the commission’s Administration Proceeding Com-

CAPITAL MARKET mittee (APC) that investigated complaints of investors against Okumagba and his company over failure, refusal and or/ neglect to liquidate their investments in both the Guaranteed Consolidated dated Notes and Guaranteed Premium Notes , two investment products run by the company.

It was gathered that during the APC’s hearing of the matter, it was realised that the rules guiding fund management in the market needed to be reviewed and strengthened so as to protect investors.

“New rules mandating registration of privately managed funds apart from

the conventional collective investment schemes would be introduced to the market. From every indication, the commission is already talking with the Funds Managers Association of Nigeria (FMAN) in that regard,” a market source told THISDAY on Monday.

BGL Group and its sponsored individuals were suspended from capital market operations in May 2015 following investors’ complaints valued over N12.9 billion.

According to SEC, the investors had alleged several violations of the Investments and Securities Act 2007, SEC Rules and Regulations as well as the Code of Conduct for Capital Market Operators including,

amongst others: Performance of a capital market function without due registration, promoting and marketing products not registered by the Commission, failure/refusal to resolve clients’ complaints, failure to file statutory returns and furnishing the Commission with false and misleading information.

The Commission explained that in a bid to obtain justice for the complainants and grant all parties fair hearing, the matter was presented before the APC which sat on February 6, 2016. During the proceedings testimonies and documentary evidence were Continued on page 24

Morgan Stanley to Offer ETFs

Morgan Stanley has asked securities regulators for the right to launch its first U.S.-listed exchange-traded funds, marking the latest example of a massive Wall Street investment manager courting investors’ growing use of those funds.The company’s asset management unit asked the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for permission to launch “passive” ETFs that would mimic market indexes as well as “actively managed” ETFs, which allow portfolio managers to pick a set of stocks and bonds they expect to beat the market.The move comes as businesses like investment management and wealth that offer more stable forms of revenue are growing in importance to Morgan Stanley and other Wall Street banks amid regulatory pressure that have crimped growth in traditional profit areas like trading, reports Blommberg.com.The Morgan Stanley request came in two applications filed late on Friday. A spokeswoman for Morgan Stanley declined to comment further on the filings. In October, Morgan Stanley named former capital markets executive Dan Simkowitz as head of the unit, which includes traditional asset management, alternative investments and the merchant bank.

Investment management represents less than 10 percent of the firm’s overall revenue, and Morgan Stanley is actively seeking to grow this unit by introducing new product

Yellen Sees Rate Hikes Ahead

Federal Reserve Chair Janet Yellen on Monday gave a largely upbeat assessment of the U.S. economic outlook and said interest rate hikes are coming but, in an omission that stood out to some investors, gave little sense of when.Overall, a Yellen said, “I see good reasons to expect that the positive forces supporting employment growth and higher inflation will continue to outweigh the negative ones.”While last month’s jobs report, released Friday, was “disappointing,” and bears watching, policymakers will respond “only to the extent that we determine or come to the view that the data is meaningful in terms of changing our view of the medium- and longer-term economic outlook.” Though she stressed surprises could emerge that could change her expectations, and listed four main risks to the U.S. economy - slower demand and productivity, and inflation and overseas risks - she concluded by downplaying them all and flagging her expectation that “further gradual increases in the federal funds rate are likely to be appropriate.”

Still, Yellen was careful not to give any hints about the timing of a next rate increase, in contrast to a speech on May 27, when she said such a move would probably be appropriate “in coming months.”

“The decision to leave the MPR unchanged is not a surprise to many market watchers given the confusion occasioned by multiple challenges being faced by the economy”

Chief Executive Officer Eczellon Capital Diekola Onaolapo,

n

24

T H I S D AY • WEDNESDAY, JUNE 8, 2016

BUSINESSWORLD BOI DISBURSES N83.5BN TO 776 ENTERPRISES IN 2015, POSTS N44.7BN PROFIT (GEEP) which is an aspect of the Federal Government’s N500 billion Social Intervention Package shortly after the 2016 budget was signed into law.

Under GEEP, the development finance bank was chosen by the federal government, given it antecedent, to identify and disburse soft loans to 1.6 million beneficiaries nationwide, mainly market women, youths, artisans and farmers.

He said BoI had brace up to the increasing responsibilities that were being assigned to fulfill the country’s economic development process, particularly in the implementation of the Nigerian Industrial Revolution Plan (NIRP), the National Enterprise Development Programme (NEDEP) and the Government’s Enterprise and Empowerment Programme (GEEP). Speaking at the AGM, the minister further extolled the efforts of management and staff for their commitment to taking the institution to greater heights, by embracing its core values and assiduously pursuing the bank’s vision, mission and mandate.

BGL SAGA: SEC TO STRENGTHEN RULES ON MANAGED FUNDS tendered by various parties.

SEC said upon conclusion of the proceedings, its APC arrived at a decision, which has been approved by the relevant authority.

Specifically, the APC decided that by their actions and/or omissions BGL Securities Limited, BGL Asset Management Limited, Okumagba, Edozie, 5th, 6th, 7th, 8th, 9th, 10th, 11th, 12th, 13th, 14th, 15th, 16th, 17th, 18th, 19th, 21st and 22nd respondents engaged in acts capable of adversely affecting the investing public’s image of, and confidence in the capital market. Consequently, the APC decided that the registration of BGL Securities Limited and BGL Assets Management Limited be cancelled, while Okumagba and Edozie, have been banned from capital market activities for 20 years.

Group Business Editor

Chika Amanze-Nwachuku Maritime Editor

John Iwori

NEWS

SMEs Urged to Adopt Strong Business Model to Drive Growth Ugo Aliogo

As part of efforts to boost economic growth among the small and medium scale enterpises (SMEs) businesses in Nigeria, experts have advocated for increased strategic planning and efficient decision making processes in order to develop a strong business model aimed at driving growth.

Speaking at the inaugural conference of Success Circle Africa with the theme: ‘Innovation and Collaboration as Catalyst for Growth in African Businesses’ in Lagos recently, the Co-founder and Executive Director, Falcon Group, Mrs. Audrey Joe-Ezeigbo, called on SMEs to push the frontiers of excellence and profession no matter how small the business might be. She noted that this would make it easy for them, when they are requesting for BOI or CBN intervention fund and other initiatives of government to support SMEs, “you are already fitting the profile of people they want to invest in.”

Ezeigbo also noted that if the oil and gas industry was heavily relying on government support to grow, it would not have been dominated by foreign players today. ’’The local content issue should not have be an issue’’, she said.

She said that if there is so much focus on government, the society would excuse the

private sector and allow them to think only about profit.

Joe-Ezeigbo further stressed that globally, there is so much emphasises on sustainable development, noting that government has a key role to play in terms of providing welfare and infrastructure, and the private sector should just concern itself with profit making only.

She added: “It is important to ask the private sector whether they are putting policies in place to ensure that we are giving opportunities to our local industries and SMEs because the more we empower them, the more it trickles down to the lowest player. The overdependence on government is not helping the growth of the economy.

“The private sector has a

key role to play in economic advancement of the country and Nigerians are very entrepreneurial people. Nigerians have the spirit of creating value out of nothing. We need a lot of knowledge sharing, capacity building and innovative ways of structuring businesses. It is not quite true that we do not have enough facilities to support SMEs; there are several

interventions on ground. But in order to support them, they will demand documentation and records which most of the SMEs do not have. In the business world of today, people want to invest in something realistic which will give the needed profit.

Nobody wants to invest a company where the money will sink.”

WELL-DESERVED HONOUR

L-R: Governor of Osun State,Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola,receiving a certificate of NCRIB Fellow from the President of Nigerian Council of Registered Insurance Brokers (NCRIB), Mr Kayode Okunoren,during a courtesy visit of NCRIB team to the governor in Osun State... recently

Aregbesola Tasks Insurance Brokers on Recovery of Ailing Economy The Governor of Osun state, Rauf Aregbesola has said that insurance brokers have crucial roles to play in the efforts to revamp Nigeria’s ailing economy.

The governor stated this while declaring open the 2016 Chief Executive Officers’ retreat of Nigerian Council of Registered Insurance Brokers (NCRIB) at Zenababs Half Moon Resort, Ilo Aiyegunle, Ilesa.

Aregbesola, who was represented by his Chief-of-Staff, Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola, tasked the professional body to work out a modality that will be capable of rescuing from the present economic challenges.

The governor, who expressed concern over the current state of the nation’s economy, suggested that the ways to liberate the country from its present state was for the professional bodies to institutionalise strategies and as well map-out realistic economic policies to mitigate

the situation.

He decried the monoeconomic nature of Nigeria’s economy, saying all hands must be on deck to find possible solutions to the nation’s socio-economic, political and cultural challenges.

Aregbesola attributed the challenge facing the country to over-reliance on crude oil, stressing that if successive governments had brilliantly diversified the economy, Nigeria would not have suffered from the present economic calamity.

The governor who reiterated that the nation is going through a tough economic situation, called on the members and leadership of (NCRIB) to come to the aid of the nation especially in rescuing over 27 states of the federation who are presently facing challenges in the payment of salary arrears.

He said: “Unknown to many is the fact that insurance, more than banking, actually drives the

economy. When businesses are insured, it gives entrepreneurs the liberty to take informed risks, knowing that their backs are covered. “Risk taking is critical to capitalism and the confidence that the business is insured, for most part, is the motive force of capitalism.

“However, beyond providing cover, the due diligence report and other expert report required by insurance firms ensure that actual risks are minimised.

“Insurance companies also help the economy with the provision of long term funds which are mostly invested in real estates and industrialisation”. The Governor charged the council to go back to the drawing board and come up with sustainable policies that would support the revival of the nation’s economy.

He noted that the fact that the nation is battling with unusual economic period, professional bodies whose

expertise would have been deployed to cushion the effects failed to intervene in the nation’s economic challenges.

Aregbesola said the nation can no longer be traditional, just as the present economic situation calls for different approaches, affirming that insurance sector can really come to bailout Nigeria by forming a modality to do so.Governor Aregbesola said except Lagos State, no other state government can boast of meeting its workers’ salary obligations and pensions, therefore charging the council to wade into rescuing the affected states through its expertise.

Aregbesola also said there is a need at this special economic period for the leadership of (NCRIB) to reflect on how to contribute tremendously towards the recovery, revival, stimulation and rejuvenation of the nation’s economy. According to him, “I am worried about the present economic situation

in Nigeria because the professional bodies whose expertise would have been intellectually deployed to rescue the nation are shying away from such responsibility.

“Though the present economic situation is no more news, but one of the realistic ways to rescue the nation is for your council to go back to the drawing board and formulate workable policies to liberate the nation.“The backlog of workers’ salaries being owed by some states could have been better relieved by your council if you have worked out a way of providing a long-term bond to the states.

“In assisting our economy on quick recovery, your council can for instance prepare a bond that would go a long way in rescuing some states who are presently being tormented with cash crunch in the payment of workers’ salary arrears and pensions.” Aregbesola stated.

Irene also explained that the astronomical rise in claims experience by the company indicates the level of awareness and exposure of the customers, adding this was why the company has placed customer satisfaction top on the list and is poised to continue doing it.

He said the above claims figure, was paid by the company from Motor, Fire, Oil & Gas, General Accidents, Marine Hall, Aviation, Industrial Risks and

Public Liability insurances.

He said IEI was one of the underwriting firms that got its strategic business direction right, from onset.

According to him, the company, boasts of having the most technical and experienced energyunderwriting unit in Nigeria.

With the best crop of hands, the IEI brand, has demonstrated a consistent growth-led business model that has continued to stand the test of time.

AgriBusiness/Industry Editor

Crusoe Osagie

Comms/e-Business Editor

Emma Okonji

Capital Market Editor

Goddy Egene

Senior Correspondent

Raheem Akingbolu (Advertising) Correspondents

Chinedu Eze (Aviation) Linda Eroke (Labour) Eromosele Abiodun (Cap Mkt) Ejiofor Alike (Energy) James Emejo (Nation’s Capital) Obinna Chima (Money Mkt) Reporters

Nume Ekeghe (Money Market) Nosa Alekhuogie (AgricBusiness)

IEI Pays N244m Claims in Q1 2016 International Energy Insurance (IEI) Plc, said it paid a total of N243, 197,194.87 as claims for the first quarter of 2016.

The company said the payment was in keeping with its promise to constantly deliver on prompt claims payment to its clients.

It also said it was a demonstration of its resolve to meet ever increasing needs and expectations of its customers especially in the current sluggish economic times.

The company’s Managing Director, Mr. Peter Irene, said going by the current harsh economic conditions, this is no mean fit.

“These are times that companies have less corporate cash to spend. Despite all these challenges in the horizon, IEI has continued to fare high in terms of claims payment. A competitive strength bolstered by stabilisation occasioned by an astute board and management,

he stated.

He said the company’s front-burner approach to claims payment demonstrates that its commitment to putting its customers first, and always willing to make them happy.

He also said it epitomises the company’s core values of integrity, dependability, proficiency, innovativeness and friendliness, adding that it exemplifies good corporate responsiveness and transparency.

25

T H I S D AY • WEDNESDAY, JUNE 8, 2016

BUSINESSWORLD

EQUITIES WATCH

United Capital Braves the Odds Effective cost management strategy as well as improvement in information technology enabled United Capital to deliver strong performance in 2015 despite the bearish nature of the capital market where it operates, writes Goddy Egene Operating in the Nigerian economy has been very challenging especially in the past one and half years. Many companies reported weaker earnings in the 2015 financial year.

While the general economy was very tough for companies, the survival for operators in the capital was tougher. The market declined in 2014 and 2015, indicating how challenging it has been for operators. However, United Capital Plc, which operates in the market has defied the challenging environment and posted impressive performance for the full year of 2015 and first quarter (Q1) of 2016.

The company ended 2015 with a growth of 39 per cent in profit and first quarter with a growth of 61 per cent in Q1 of 2016.

Corporate profile United Capital Plc was incorporated in Nigeria on March 14, 2002 under the Companies and Allied Matters Act, Cap C20, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2004. It became a public company and was listed on the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) in January 2013 after a successful spin-off from United Bank for Africa Plc. United Capital is first investment bank in Nigeria to be listed on the NSE and it is a holding company with three subsidiaries: United Capital Trustees Limited, United Capital Asset Management Limited and United Capital Securities Limited.

The company is engaged in the business of investment banking and provides issuing house, corporate investment advisory services, project finance, debt restructuring, mergers and acquisitions, debt capital markets. Through its subsidiaries, it provides additional services such as trusteeship, asset management, securities, trading and insurance. United Capital’s vision is to be the leading financial and investment services group in Africa, while its mission is to be the financial and investment role model across Africa, deploying innovation, technology, and specialist skills to exceed client expectations, whilst creating superior value for all stakeholders.

The company’s board of directors is led

by Mr. Chika Mordi as chairman, while Mrs. Oluwatoyin Sanni is group chief executive officer. Other directors include: Adim Jibunoh, J. K. Shinkaiye, oro Mohammed Diallo and Emmanuel Nnorom Financial performance Towering above the challenging environment, United Capital recorded an impressive performance for the year ended December 31, 2015. It posted gross earnings of N6.154 billion, showing an increase of 32 per cent compared with N4.677 billion in 2014. Net operating income rose by 38 per cent to N5.496 billion to N3.968 billion. Profit before tax grew by 41 per cent from N2.309 billion to N3.263 billion, while Profit after tax stood at N2.570 billion, from N1.846 billion. Despite the higher cost of doing business in that year, the company maintained a cost to income ratio of 53 per cent. Earnings per share grew from 41 kobo to 43 kobo, while return on average equity improved from 21 per cent to 26 per cent.

Based on the improved performance, the directors proposed that a dividend of 35 kobo per ordinary share of 50 kobo each, amounting to N2.1billion, be paid to shareholders upon approval at the annual general meeting.

While many companies where lamenting their dwindling fortunes in 2015 and Q1 of 2016, United Capital consolidated on its 2015 performance in Q1 of 2016.

The company recorded gross earnings of N1.857 billion in Q1 of 2016, compared with N1.307 billion in 2015. Net operating income stood at N1.761 billion, up by 49 per cent from N1.182 billion in 2015. Total expenses was reduced by 11 per cent from N512 million to N453 million. As a result, profit before tax improved by 59 per cent from N892 million to N1.422 billion, while PAT witnessed a fast

improvements in operations and IT capabilities, thereby ensuring that we optimised value and retained a significant proportion of earnings.

“We continue to pursue our clear and consistent strategy, which has delivered a strong performance for shareholders, and we remain positive about our future opportunities within the Nigerian and African market, notwithstanding the challenging macro-economic environment,” Sanni said.

She said by executing the company’s long-term strategy, and displaying resilience and resourcefulness, it was able to earn significant revenues predominantly from the execution and delivery of debt capital and trust services as well as through growth in asset under management (AUM) and the prudent investment of client and proprietary funds.

Key transactions Specifically in 2015, the company successfully participated in and completed key transactions. It acted as lead Issuing House/ Underwriter and Sole Trustee on N30.00billion Transcorp Hotels Plc Medium Term Debt Issuance; Structuring Bank/Facility Agent on $250million Pre-Export Finance for Orion Oil – One of the largest debt deals by a Pan-African Investment Bank in 2015; Joint Trustee on Fidelity Bank Plc N30.00billion Fixed Rate Unsecured Subordinated Bond; Appointed Joint Fund Manager for the KfWsponsored $30 million African Local Currency Bond fund; Joint Trustee on the Cross River State N8.5billion Fixed Rate Bond Issue; and Sole Trustee on the N5 billion Gombe State Bond issue.

Sanni

growth of 61 per cent to be at N1.137 billion as against N707 million in 2015.

Company explains performance Commenting on the full year results, Sanni

had said the performance in a year characterised by adverse macro-economic factors, was driven by the group’s growing market share, efficient execution of key mandates and effective cost management driven by

UNITED CAPITAL 2015 FINANCIAL SUMMARY 60

DEC. 2015

N10.4bn

10

DEC. 2014

N9.08bn

9 8 7 6 5 4

DEC. 2015

N6.15bn

DEC. 2015

N5.496bn DEC. 2014

N4.677bn

3 2

DEC. 2014

N3.968bn DEC. 2015 N3.63bn DEC. 2014 N2.309bn DEC. 2015 N2.57bn

DEC. 2014

N1.84bn

1 0

GROSS EARNINGS

NET OPERATING INCOME

PROFIT BEFORE TAX

PROFIT AFTER TAX

SHAREHOLDERS’ FUNDS

Strategies for future growth According to Sanni as ‘we commence 2016, we remain committed to achieving our goal of building Africa’s leading investment and financial services group and to work hard to accomplish our strategic objective set out in 2015 & 2016. Our priorities include: driving effectiveness and efficiency initiatives to improve productivity whilst optimising costs. Further improving our brand awareness, corporate image and brand value to achieve market-wide recognition and appreciation of our corporate identity.”

The CEO added that the company would renew focus on service excellence and execution to drive client growth and retention, expand its footprint, develop innovative product lines, driving growth in its market share along core areas of product coverage and expertise, increase focus on developing human capital and strengthening our staff.

“These initiatives should see us successfully enhance the group’s productivity, revenue growth and profitability.

I have great confidence in the highly dedicated staff and the management team of United Capital Plc, whose superior pedigree and expertise, led by a strong and highly supportive board of directors, make us supremely equipped to build on our strong performance in 2015 to take on 2016, ensuring delivery of excellent value to our shareholders,” she said.

Sanni said she is confident in company’s ability to consistently deliver value to stakeholders in the current year, declaring “I have no doubt in my mind that the strategies we have put in place in light of our expectations of market scenarios in the coming year will prove effective in delivering much better results. I must thank all of you for your constant support in our task of building a leading financial services firm in Africa. I am confident that with the dedication of our resourceful staff and your unalloyed support, we will continue to delight you with superior return in every line of business we are involved.”

26

T H I S D AY • WEDNESDAY, JUNE 8, 2016

BUSINESSWORLD

INtERvIEW

Onaolapo: Costs of CBN Earlier Stance on Forex Market Are Very Apparent The Chief Executive Officer of Eczellon Capital Limited, Mr. Diekola Onaolapo, in this exclusive interview with Eromosele Abiodun, spoke on the costs of the CBN’s earlier stance on the foreign exchange market, the way out of the current economic crisis and several other issues. Excerpts: The much expected Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting ended recently, what are your takeaways from the outcome of the meeting?

The main expectation from the last MPC was that on the foreign exchange, which seems to be central to the current economic issues in the country. Although the MPC resisted the call for adjustments to the official pricing of the Naira, its pronouncement on an imminent introduction of “Flexibility in the Interbank Foreign Exchange Market” excited the market, albeit without providing much clarity on the actual direction of that foreign exchange policy. It is believed that this “flexibility” may herald the succour to the scarcity of foreign exchange which has plagued businesses in the country. As for takeaway on policy direction, economists may argue that the decision indicates that the MPC is now more interested in pursuing economic growth as a macroeconomic objective as opposed to its price stability stance at its meeting in March where the MPR was increased by a 100 basis points to 12.0 per cent from 11.0 per cent. The question is, would monetary policy quick fixes be adequate to kick-start an economy, stalled more by fiscal challenges? It is instructive to note that, before the Monetary Policy Rate (MPR) was left unchanged at this last MPC meeting, it was increased to 12 per cent at the penultimate meeting, before which reduced by 200 basis points from 13 per cent to 11 per cent at the preceding meeting. This implies that there have been changes to policy direction by the MPC in its last five consecutive meeting. It leaves analysts sensing that these policy changes are only reactive to volatility of the economic situation and not for planning for long term objectives. The fear is that such changes are mere academic exercises which may not be as sensitive to context as they should, possibly because of misalignment with fiscal policies or the presence of great challenges in the fiscal structures of the economy. What is required are bold monetary policies, supported by focused fiscal directions, for a reversal of the current downward trend of the Nigerian economy and the achievement of long term development objectives of the country.

After rejecting calls for the adoption of a flexible foreign exchange regime, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) finally bowed to pressure, stating that it would introduce greater flexibility in the interbank foreign exchange market structure. Is this coming too late and what has the CBN’s earlier stand cost the economy?

The decision is long overdue and it is better late than never, but even this is still less than required, in the current circumstances.

The costs of the CBN earlier stance on the foreign exchange market are very apparent and can be summarised into four key areas.

First is the slowing growth of the economy.

Gross Domestic Products (GDP) growth is in a negative territory (-0.36% as at the end of first quarter of 2016) after consistent decline in previous quarters. Second, is the recent scarcity of petroleum products caused by the inability of oil marketers to access foreign exchange to import products, which has also contributed to rising inflationary pressures in the country. The third impact is on the nation’s unemployment and underemployment numbers, currently at 31.2 per cent has consistently risen on a quarterly basis in the last 12 months due to closure of factories and other businesses that

Onaolapo

could not cope with the prevailing operating environment, with liquidity squeeze and market downturn – also linked to foreign exchange scarcity. The last could be seen in the stable decline in capital importation into the country which fell by about 73.8 per cent to $710.9 million in the first quarter to the year compared to the corresponding period of 2015. The $710.9 million recorded in the first three months of the year is the lowest the country has achieved since 2007 according to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) numbers. It is obvious that foreign exchange issues are central to current economic challenges and therefore require bold decisions, which are by no means easy choices.

Refusal to take bold decisions in a timely manner is essentially a decision to prolong and possibly worsen the issues. Sometimes you cut off a limb in order for the person to survive

a cancer and eventually live. Hopefully, the expected flexible interbank foreign exchange market, when its details are known, should assist to restore some level of confidence on the Nigerian economy and reverse some of these negative trends.

In what way does the flexible foreign exchange regime align or conflict with the announcement by the CBN that it will retain a small window for critical transactions for prospective investors?

It will be difficult to tell at this point since the details of how the new flexible exchange rate regime will function are not yet known.

However, the creation of a “small window for critical transactions” would likely bring about a dual exchange rate system which is susceptible to abuse if not properly managed.

Economists have called for a harmonisation of the foreign exchange markets to remove arbitrage opportunities and propensity for speculations which distort the market. Multiple foreign exchange markets in a market where the ratio of parallel market to official rates is almost 2:1 is worrisome.

The CBN also warned that the Nigerian economy might further contract in the second quarter of this year into a full blown recession, as some of the conditions which led to the contraction in the gross domestic product growth rate in the first quarter remained largely unresolved. What is the way out of this situation?

Continued on page 27

27

T H I S D AY • WEDNESDAY, JUNE 8, 2016

BUSINESSWORLD

INtERvIEW

ONAOLAPO: COSTS OF CBN EARLIER STANCE ON FOREX MARKET ARE VERY APPARENT sectors. Likewise, there is a need for structural reforms necessary to strengthen institutions of government so as to improve the ease of doing business in the continent and aid in diversifying income streams of the various countries and thus, reduce their susceptibility to vagaries in prices of commodities. A combination of all these should go a long way to attract private equity Funds to complement government’s investments in infrastructure in the continent.

The way out of the current economic conundrum is through the implementation of appropriate fiscal policies, supported by sound monetary policies. Good news is that the 2016 budget has been signed into law and we hope its implementation comes into full swing within the shortest possible time. This should help to stimulate critical sectors of the economy and generate needed multiplier effects on businesses and the populace in general. On the monetary side, optimistic outlook on the decision of the MPC to adopt a flexible exchange rate regime is that it will ensure businesses have access to foreign exchange to conduct their transactions. The hope is that the proposed foreign exchange policy will ultimately lead to a boost in trade (which is a key component of the Nigerian economy), growth of manufacturing and in-country production and attraction of necessary Foreign Direct Investments (FDIs). Thus putting the right monetary and fiscal policies into action will positively impact investment and business sentiments of economic agents.

This will stimulate spending and investments which are required to initiate the revival of the economy.

Another outcome of the MPC meeting was the decision by the CBN to leave the monetary policy rate unchanged at 12 per cent with the asymmetric corridor at +200 and -500 basis points around the MPR, citing tight fiscal environment and the need to allow previous monetary policy decisions to crystallise. What is your view on this?

The decision to leave the MPR unchanged is not a surprise to many analysts given the confusion occasioned by multiple challenges being faced by the economy. With the current stagflation – slowing growth and increasing inflation – choices are tough. Rate hike may curb inflation and attempt to stabilize prices, but it further stifles growth due to its tightening nature, increasing cost of capital to businesses as well as mop up liquidity. Rate reduction may also be attractive to stimulate growth, but it may increase inflation and release liquidity which may drive further pressure on the foreign exchange environment. The rationale given for leaving rate unchanged seems plausible given the current weak posture of the Nigerian economy.

The MPC may choose to watch the impact of its current policy directions, coupled with the effect of fiscal activities – from implementation of the budget – before making further changes to the monetary policy environment.

Your comment on the first quarter GDP report released by the NBS was quite damning. It was like you foresaw what the CBN will say about the economy in the first and second quarters, can you comment further on this and give us your thought on what the CBN said about what to expect in the second quarter?

The comments of the CBN on the economy, a warning of further contraction of the economy - is logical. Economic decisions typically have a lag period before their full impact is felt in the economy. This is why we also believe that the full impact of the delayed budgetary process and foreign exchange scarcity is yet to fully play out on the economy. We expect some residual effects of the above to further weaken the economy in second quarter, if other factors remain the same. Some of the earlier decisions of the monetary authority, or decisions not to decide, were not favourable to businesses and investor sentiments. The delay in investment decisions, caused by the mentioned impasse in monetary policy environment will affect the economy beyond the first quarter. The delay in budget passage, continued restiveness of militants on oil and gas infrastructures, unclear foreign exchange policy directions and others will impact the economy adversely.

The slide in the oil price has brutally exposed Nigeria’s Achilles heel. In your comment on the first quarter NBS numbers you said the figures has set the tone for the nation to enter into an economic recession by the end of the first half of the year as the weaknesses in the non-oil sector (Manufacturing & Financial services) are still very inherent. Can you explain this to our readers?

An economic recession occurs when an

Onaolapo

economy posts negative growth in two successive quarters. Some economists argue that a country is already in recession if it experiences three consecutive quarters of falling growth. Both scenarios seem imminent to play out in Nigeria, with the current outlook on second quarter following a negative first quarter growth rate.

While the slump in oil prices might have affected the Nigerian economy, with the over-exposure of government revenues and foreign exchange earnings to the sector, the non-oil sector have been further impacted by the monetary policy challenges and other system issues. The above will inevitably tell on gross domestic products numbers for the second quarter, and possibly linger into the beginning of the third quarter due to lagged effects of these economic challenges.

The recently passed budget and positive news in the foreign exchange environment may have positive impacts in the third quarter, but I am not sure these would impact the second quarter GDP numbers.

The Nigerian government plans to raise about N2 trillion to balance the 2016 budget, a large portion of it will be borrowed domestically, but there are liquidity concerns in the capital market.

What other option is available for the government?

The Nigerian capital market has the capacity to absorb the federal government borrowing. As observed following the removal of Nigeria from the JP Morgan Bond Index recently, the expected negative impact of the decision was tempered by in-country containment of the pressure. The Pension Fund Management structure in the country is an untapped resource, which can be tapped for the provision of needed financing for the federal government’s developmental initiatives.

Creative structures around the Pension Funds are a viable option for the federal government. Also, the other options available to the government are from the international financial markets and multi-lateral developmental institutions. The federal government has already successfully pursued some of these channels, especially with China where it sealed currency swap deals and a financing agreement earlier in the year.

The key challenge for the government may be the continued valuation of Naira at its current levels. We believe once details of the proposed

flexible exchange rate are made known, it will make it easier for the government to access the international financial markets to raise the required fund to plug the budget deficit.

The resources needed a year for improvement in energy, irrigation, roads and rail in Nigeria and other Africa countries is put at over $200 billion, given the declining crude oil prices how achievable is this and what role can private equity funds play?

It is very clear at the moment that governments on the African continent cannot on their own finance the needed investments to drive the developmental objectives required for and by the African people. Private sector investment – whether equity, structured debt or even other hybrid capital structures – is key as well as encouraged foreign direct investments.

Majority of African countries currently rely on commodities which is susceptible to periodic slumps. The return to the African growth story, and the sustenance of the same, therefore require a shift from this “crude” economy – based on extraction of crude mineral resources alone. This shift requires investment in infrastructure – both tangible and social infrastructure. These cannot be paid for by the governments alone. Private capital investment was very instrumental to the growth of the African economy of recent history. FDI inflows into Africa in the last decade are estimated at over $150.0 billion. This aided the development of several sectors, many of which were erstwhile not even considered in GDP computations, but are now key drivers of the economy. Such sectors include telecommunications, e-commerce, finance, real estate, etc. Private capital will continue to be very important to Africa, and governments on the continent must ensure they remain open to the encouragement of capital inflows into the continent, with improvement in the regulatory environment that checks excesses and protects the market integrity and ensures Africa is not a dumping ground of hot money which leaves the market worse in the long run. Governments on the continent must be willing to create an enabling environment for investors in terms of consistency in policy formulation and repealing/ reviewing archaic laws that do not encourage private sector investments in critical economic

Any hope for the Nigerian economy?

Definitely! Although the Nigerian market, just as many other emerging economies in the world today, is faced with some economic challenges, we still remain a beacon of hope for the African continent and the continuance of its growth story. We believe economic performance should stabilise towards the end of the year 2016 due to the expected impact from the government’s expansionary fiscal programme and, hopefully, with the adoption of monetary policies which are realistic and sensitive to the prevailing circumstances. Challenges of the past are being mitigated. Security challenges are being resolved, with the near eradication of Boko Haram, although recent issues such as Biafra agitations, Fulani herdsmen issues and resumed restiveness in the Niger Delta are worrying. The political environment has shown improving maturity over time, culminating in the peaceful 2015 change of government and change of ruling party.

We therefore believe that current economic challenges will soon be weathered with appropriate policies, especially since the fundamental drivers of the Nigerian growth are unchanged.

Although former economic growth was fuelled by record prices of oil and other commodities, which are now in slump, the Nigerian market, with the highest population on the African continent, dominated by youth with high exposure to global trends, remains very promising and a return to economic growth is expected sooner than later. That said, one is not oblivious of the short and medium term threats to the growth potentials we see. A key threat at the moment is the seeming inability to speedily enact relevant policies that arrest current economic issues.

The impact is that this may unnecessarily worsen the circumstances and make revival more difficult and slower. Another threat is the return to restiveness in the NigerDelta region which has severely reduced the nation’s oil production activities, hindering the country from tapping into the recent upsurge in crude oil prices. We believe it is essential that the government addresses the issues in a holistic manner within the shortest possible time, otherwise, the strain from the nation’s oil revenues will likely continue, which will in turn hamper the ability of the government to drive its developmental programmes.

How has all that we have talked about affected your business at Eczellon Capital?

Eczellon Capital, like any other business concern, continues to feel the impact of the various developments in the markets and economies in which it operates and these (impacts) have been mixed. As you are aware, we are a full service investment bank and licensed issuing house with services spanning business and financial advisory, corporate finance, project advisory and private equity. Although our focus is mainly Nigeria, we also actively operate in other countries within the equatorial (West to East) Africa.

So, you can say “the challenge is the opportunity”. While the uncertainties around the Foreign Exchange has impacted the facilitation of foreign investments into Nigeria, there have been opportunities for in-country investments occasioned by depressed asset prices and opportunities to make acquisitions at attractive entry prices. The current challenges have also necessitated the need for businesses and governments to evaluate their strategies and we continue to support our clients in this regard.

Overall our outlook and business sentiments are also tempered with our long term focus on the market. We believe in the Nigerian – and African – dream and the promise thereof. We are committed to presenting Nigerian businesses – and other enterprises with which we work around the region – with access to finance and business advice which they require to reposition and grow their businesses and position appropriately to harness emerging opportunities.

28

T H I S D AY • WEDNESDAY, JUNE 8, 2016

BUSINESSWORLD

ANALYSIS

Youth Unemployment, a Ticking Time Bomb in Africa

African policy makers and business leaders need to wake up to the ticking time bomb of youth unemployment in the continent and treat the issue with seriousness, writes Obinna Chima

Elumelu

The latest figures from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) showed that unemployment rate in Nigeria climbed to 12.1 per cent in the first quarter of 2016, from the 10.4 per cent it was in the fourth quarter of 2015, reaching the highest since December of 2009. The figure could be far higher than this considering the weakness in gathering accurate data in the country.

But a disturbing figure in the NBS data was the high rate of youth unemployment.

Specifically, youth unemployment in the country increased to 21.5 per cent from 19 percent in the period under review. This has remained a source of worry not just to Nigeria, but other countries in the continent.

From Lagos to Abuja, Lusaka, Windhoek, Kigali, Accra to Rabat, Conakry to Addis Ababa, while the potential of Africa remains a sweet story to tell, that bright light of optimism shinning in the continent may be replaced with a dark cloud of desolation if the monster of youth unemployment is not tackled. In fact, unless more attention is given to the menace, Africa’s demographic boom math turnout to be its doom.

Speaking at the 51st annual meeting of the board of governors of the African Development Bank (AfDB) that took place in Lusaka last month, the AfDB president, Akinwunmi Adesina, noted that Africa has a job crisis.

“Unemployment rate is a crisis. Africa is in a job crisis. I believe the solution is right here in Africa” Akinwunmi, who is also Nigeria’s immediate former Minister of Agriculture, emphasised that the future of Africa lies in a more “prosperous and inclusive Africa.”

On his part, the Founder of the Mo Ibrahim Foundation, Dr. Mo Ibrahim, pointed that countries in Africa are wonderful at wasting natural resources, saying “the same way we waste our youth. We send our natural resources overseas where they add no value until they are refined’.

In support of this, the Executive Secretary of the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa, Carlos Lopes, added that “African migrants, if properly trained, can return to the continent to add value just like the entrepreneurs

Adesina

being trained by the Tony Elumelu Foundation.”

Focus on Entreprenuership The Chairman of the United Bank for Africa (UBA) and pan-African investment company, Heirs Holdings, Mr. Tony Elumelu, who was also a panelist at the AfDB meeting, said the solution to the problem of youth unemployment in the continent can only come first from within the continent as well through collective efforts by all stakeholders in the Africa project.

“I believe entrepreneurship can solve the problem of job creation. Young people need a helping hand, the kind that will make them self- reliant and self- confident so that they can add their quota to the development of the continent,” he added.

Elumelu said: “If we are serious about cultivating jobs, let Africans who want to help deal with this issue. The Tony Elumelu Foundation Entrepreneurship Programme (TEEP), is my foundation’s 10-year, $100 million commitment to empowering the next generation of African entrepreneurs and surely, there are more private sector leaders that are willing to invest in our continent’s future.

“I see great entrepreneurship potential in many of the 45,000 applicants that applied for TEEP this year alone, but the level of training, mentoring and networking that we offer means that we can only select 1,000 each year. I call on everyone here to support those who missed the cut. This is a clear path to sustaining African economic growth.”

The panelists were focused not only on creating jobs for the youths but also harnessing the skills available on the continent to ensure good use is made of the natural resources available.

Also, Parliamentary State Secretary, Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ),Thomas Silberhorn urged the world to take note of the fact that “$150 billion worth of goods is exported each year outside the continent(of Africa) which is much more than the aid given” as Elumelu opined that “international aid organisations need to re-evaluate the way they engage Africa in the 21st century.”

Elumelu, who was recently in Paris on the invitation of the French Senate, Business France and Banque publique d’investissement (BPI), also used the opportunity to promote Africa as a continent ripe for investment.

The meeting at the BPIs event ‘BIG’(BpiFrance inno generation), witnessed a gathering of over 4,000 French entrepreneurs.

“For too long, many people when they hear the word ‘Africa,’ they think about darkness and backwardness… I want people to think of Africa and think of opportunities. I want to stimulate the economic transformation of Africa and help the continent to take its rightful position as a strong regional player in the international community,” he said in an address.

Furthermore, he urged French businesses to come and discover Nigeria and find the right partners to help them navigate the business environment. He cited the example of UBA - which has been operating profitably and successfully in Nigeria for 70 years - and its subsequent footprint into 18 countries in Africa over the last decade. “The Nigerian economy plays an important role in West Africa and beyond. So when you invest in Nigeria, the benefits spill over to our neighbours in dozens of countries’ he stated.

Inclusive Growth for Africa Also, in a recent presentation, a former Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Professor Kingsley Chiedu Moghalu warned that if Nigeria and other developing countries fail to achieve inclusive economic growth, they would have missed the path to true development and run the risk of increased instability.

Moghalu, who is a Professor of Practice in International Business and Public Policy at The Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy at Tufts University in Boston, USA explained: “In order to achieve inclusive growth, we should be clear about what it means and what it doesn’t.

“Inclusive growth is about bringing all sectors of the economy and different strata of the society into a process of broad-based economic growth.

This raises incomes and creates wealth across

the board through increased labour productivity.

It is not the same thing as inequality.”

“That is a wider problem created by the unequal distribution of capitalist wealth and is being addressed in some industrially advanced countries with income and wealth redistribution through taxation adjustments and other means,” the former CBN chief said.

Moghalu also noted that “inclusive growth also is not quite the same thing as social protection, although there is some relationship between the two. Inclusive growth focuses on the productivity of labour across a balanced set of sectors, and on ensuring employment, while social protection and welfare may include exhaustive fiscal transfers that do not necessarily create any goods and services.”

He suggested that “achieving inclusive growth in Nigeria and other developing countries required an approach focused on conceptual clarity, which is necessary because a proper understanding of what inclusive growth is and what it is not will help policymakers avoid the wrong kinds of “solutions” that will in reality not solve the problem; rural based economic growth as opposed to “urban bias” in development thinking; the fundamental role of business in promoting inclusive growth; infrastructure, which promotes equality of opportunity to access the marketplace of labour and goods; the creation of an effective social contract between the state and its citizens, which is presently absent; financial inclusion; and effective political leadership that can translate political power, authority and responsibility into inclusive growth-related public policy, with concrete outcomes that bridge the gap between expectations and performance.”

The former central banker noted that the failure to consciously pursue inclusive growth in Nigeria has created structural distortions in the country’s economy that have resulted in the economic crisis in the country.

Also, a former President of the AfDB and former Minister of Finance of Rwanda, Dr. Donald Kaberuka, emphasised that inclusion of every citizen and every group in the political process and the exercise of political power is essential to attaining inclusive economic growth.

29

T H I S D AY • WEDNESDAY, JUNE 8, 2016

BUSINESSWORLD

INtERvIEW

Otunuga: A Recession May Dampen the Morale of Nigerians Cyprus-based Research Analyst at ForexTime (FXTM), Mr. Lukman Otunuga who was in Nigeria recently, in this interview with Obinna Chima, said the expectations that Nigeria may slide into a recession is a concern to a lot of investors, adding that a recession may weaken morale in Africa’s largest economy With all the issues in the macro-economic environment, what in your opinion is the future of the naira?

I have been studying the naira for an extended period and it is good to start with the reasons why the naira is where it is presently. We know that Nigeria is heavily dependent on the export of crude oil. So, when oil prices crashed heavily, that impacted the Nigerian economy with government’s revenue taking a big dip. At the same time, if you look at what is happening in the United States where there are expectations that the Federal Reserve may raise rates again this quarter, in order to boost the value of the dollar. So, the whole combination of fall in oil prices, the decision by the United States Federal Reserve have all weighed on the value of the naira. Even though the dollar is not a legal tender in Nigeria, the dollar has a big impact on the economy. Whenever the dollar appreciates everybody around feels the pain. For example, because most of the items in Nigeria are imported, the prices of goods and services have all increased. What makes the situation worse is the growing concern that Nigeria could actually be on the brink of a recession.

The Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth was below expectation in the first quarter of 2016, and if the second quarter also follows the same negative path, the country would go into a recession. So, when you add all these together, of course it would impact negatively on the exchange rate. To my knowledge, in the black market, the naira is around N350 against the dollar and there is a possibility that it could weaken further as expectations that the economy could actually into recession heightens.

Are the measures being introduced by the monetary and fiscal authorities in the face of the economic challenges facing the country appropriate?

Looking from outside and how the world is viewing Nigeria, there have been many talks, almost vilifying how the President Muhammadu Buhari’s regime has been managing the naira and the economy. I have read several comments by the president about how his out-dated policies of the past are reasons why the country has been managing the exchange rate. What the monetary policy committee (MPC) of the Central Bank of Nigeria did at their last meeting, by leaving the monetary policy rate unchanged.

We were all expecting that with the inflationary pressure, interest rate would have been hiked so as to curb inflation. That would have been a short-term measure to reduce the pressure in the economy. A lot of people are already expecting that the second quarter GDP would also fall below expectations and if that happens, morale in Nigeria is going to be low. Then, we would all know that the economy is in recession.

That could actually force the central bank to implement some aggressive monetary policies in order to promote growth. Now, everybody is talking about devaluation and it is a very sensitive topic. With the way things are going, even though President Buhari had stated that he may not want the currency to be devalued, if a recession sets in, Nigeria may be forced to devalue as bad as that sounds. But we have to look at the scenarios. The reason why a lot of people are against a further devaluation of the currency is because Nigeria is an import dependent economy, Nigeria doesn’t do a lot of export. So, devaluation might be a double pain because when that happens, it is going to trickle down to the common man.

If you are to recommend to Nigeria’s policy makers, what policy prescriptions do you think they should consider?

To the best of my knowledge, I would suggest a bond-buying programme or more of a quantitative

Otunuga

easing in order to save the economy. It is going to be quite hard. Another thing is that a lot of people are waiting for the modalities about the flexible exchange rate that the central bank intends to introduce. People are waiting to see what they mean by that. So, the central bank needs to work on transparency. Yes, quantitative easing should be seriously considered. We have to remember where the black market exchange rate is and we need to understand that the date is determined by the people and not the central bank. It is the sentiment of the people in the black market that determines the value of the dollar in the black market. And as the dollar keeps rising against the naira, cost of goods and services are being passed down on the people.

What are the likely effects of Nigeria’s recent currency swap deal with the Chinese government?

To my knowledge, Nigeria has tried to do a couple of things to try and pull itself out of the situation it finds itself. We have seen that they have added the Yuan to the currency basket and there was also a $6 billion loan deal. The first thing about the Yuan basket is that it is good because 70 per cent of our imports are actually from China. So, what the CBN actually wanted to achieve was to reduce the demand pressure

on the dollar and move it to the Yuan. But that is a very long- term thing. It is not something that we can see the effect in a year or two.

It is probably going to take a decade. That is what people should understand. So, it is not something that is going to happen overnight.

At the same time we must understand that the Yuan is a currency that the Chinese central bank can easily devalue. If they do devalue the Yuan to boost their export, of course it is going to hit back at Nigeria.

What are the opportunities for currency, gold and crude oil traders?

The year 2016 has been a year of heavy volatility because there are so many things that have happened. At the start of the year, there were concerns over slowdown in global growth which shook the global stock market. The Federal Reserve hiked interest rate for the first time in almost 10 years in December 2015 that caused uproar. At the same time, remember the Chinese stock market crashed in the first part of 2016 as well as a result of concerns about global growth. At the same time, if you look at the Japanese economy, there are fears that it might be on the brink of another recession.

Finally, we have the Brexit concerns and the European Union referendum on the 23rd of June. So, if you look at the global economy,

there is so much volatility and volatility provides trading opportunities. But you have to understand what the main themes are. The main themes in the market are: as strengthening dollar and the second thing is the price of gold. This is because gold and dollar are symbiotically linked.

Whenever the dollar increases, gold falls. Oil price is another big thing in the market. We know oil price fell because of oversupply worries. The days of triple digit oil price are gone. Once upon a time oil price used to trade over $100, but with over-production globally showing over supply, of course price would fall. But just in recent times, there have been short-term disruption of oil installations in Nigeria as a result of renewed militancy by the Niger Delta Avengers. But these are short-term disruptions and even though Nigeria’s oil production has fallen from 2.2 million barrels per day to at least 1.5 million barrels, other nations are going to reclaim that market share if Nigeria is not able to come back up.

So, for currency traders and traders in general, you must look at strengthening dollars, fall in gold prices and a weakening oil prices. This is a great time for traders especially for dollar, gold and oil traders. With the expectation the OPEC meeting was going to be successful and that is an opportunity for oil prices. Of course gold, if the United States rate increase, the demand for gold would naturally decrease.

T H I S D AY • WEDNESDAY, JUNE 8, 2016

30

BUSINESSWORLD

INTERVIEW

Ekechukwu: It’s Wrong for FG to Give Bailouts to States to Pay Salaries Managing Director, Bristol Investment Limited, Dr. Chijioke Ekechukwu, in this interview with James Emejo, reasons that the quantum of monetary interventions by the federal government to the states in form of bailouts ought to be deployed to the private sector in order to boost job creation and stimulate the economy. He also spoke on other issues affecting the economy. Excerpts: interest rate. Many of them sprang up again and came back to business because the money was pumped into the private sector. If you keep giving bailout to state governments to pay salaries-and they’ll end up paying for two months-so what happens to the rest, are you going to keep giving bailouts? You don’t give bailout on continuous basis, you only give a bailout to pump money into the economy through the private sector and that’s actually what I think we haven’t gotten right with the bailout. If you ask me, we really shouldn’t pump more money into bailout for the payment of salaries, that’s not what bailout is meant for.

After much delays, the 2016 budget has finally been passed into law, what does this signify for Nigerians?

Obviously there’s going to be a lot of relief in the sense that the economy can be again; when this kind of delay happened in other countries like America, their economy was shut down and so for a country to run for five months without their budget means we should have actually shut down for five months. And so there should be relief given that there’s going to be a reflation of the economy; the economy is going to be stimulated again by the pumping of the money that is to be released from the budget into the system. There’s going to be some life in the economy with the signing into law of the 2016 budget-so this is a good news.

Compared with previous administrations, the capital component of the 2016 budget showed some improvement, could it have been higher?

When people talk about the capital budget been almost 30 percent, obviously it is a thing to note in comparism with what used to happen-the amount of money budgeted for capital bite before now. But it is not all about it. Here we are running a deficit budget.

The country could just have had up to N10 trillion, N20 trillion or up to N30 trillion but the question is-how will the budget be funded? To run about N2.2 trillion deficit in a budget as far as I am concerned, is not a terrible situation as this could be funded using several other means like borrowing from the bond market locally or from the international lending institutions like the IMF, World Bank as the case may be. But my concern is the fact that the capital budget should such that would open up the entire economy; should be such that would build capacity and open the entire economy in terms of building infrastructure that would enhance the expansion of the economy. If we do not spend this 30 percent of our budget on that aspect of the economy that we can consider in the areas of building capacities in manufacturing sector, creating opportunities in energy and power sectors and probably in the transport sector that would actually enhance the real sector, then we would have wasted our energy in celebrating that we have 30 percent of our budget in capital.

What do you foresee concerning the implementation of the 2016 budget?

It is for this reason that the federal government established what we call the Fiscal Responsibility Commission as well as the Bureau of Public Procurement, and it is for this reason that the government had budget and audit departments in various ministries and parastatals. It is for this reason that we also have the office of the Auditor General for the Federation in the country. Unfortunately, these various institutions or positions have not optimised themselves in doing due diligence to the work which they’ve been selected to do. I have mentioned all these parastatals that are supposed to actually make sure that the implementation of the budget is well done and followed routinely. The problem is not just in the implementation but in the budget preparation itself. No particular ministry or parastatal or agency has been put in charge of making sure that in preparing this budget by various MDAs-that only things that are necessary are put in there.

We’d been told that this budget of 2016 is supposed to be a zero-budget for the year

Ekechukwu

but for what I saw as an economist-I do not see a zero budget. What I saw was an incremental budget where various budgets were dusted and added 10 percent or 20 percent as the case may be. I have seen situations where ministries and parastatals which already bought office furniture two years ago, today they are also buying office furniture. What are they buying office furniture again for? Have they used those ones or are they opening new offices? No, just that nobody supervised what went into those budgets. So in implementing the budget, we shouldn’t just be looking at the passage of the budget, we should also look at the inputs being made. The inputs should not just end up with the National Assembly when they start scrutinising the budget because many times, they don’t have the time; they may not even have the technical know-how to be able to go through all those budgets. Professionals or probably chartered accountancy firms or core professionals in these areas should be deployed into making sure that inputs of budgets are exactly based on things that are needed by these ministries and parastatals and not just accepting a document only for them to be asked quatrains for a few minutes by

the National Assembly- it is not going to be enough. So as far as I am concerned, we still have a lot of work to do in the preparation of budget itself to avoid what Nigerians call paddling today. Padding is not done after signing the budget, it is actually done before the budget is passed into law and so that’s where the problem starts from.

Still on the fiscal side, states government have continued to seek bailout from the federal government in order to meet their financial obligations. Is this practice really sustainable?

The question we haven’t asked ourselves and the governors and all the people who benefited from the bailout is what did they use the bailout for? In an economy that is dwindling, in an economy that’s experiencing depression like ours, you don’t give bailout to pay salaries. If you remember when bailout was given out in America, bailout was given to the private sector and not the government sector; bailout was given to various industries-the banks, the mortgage institution, the automotive sector -and when this bailout was given to them, they were given a time-frame to pay back this money and it was for a particular

So what remedy would you recommend for state governments who appear helpless at this critical period of a near-recession?

When I was growing up in school, I read a book by Peter Drucker who said we do not have underdeveloped countries-what we have are under managed countries. There’s no state of the federation that doesn’t have a resource that can be tapped. Even if you don’t have a resource, you have investment opportunities you could give; be it tourism, be it creation of wealth that you can do within your state and before you know it, everybody in the state would have an increased income based on the level of business that is taking place in the state. Unfortunately, the system we run in the country is such that money money is being expected from the federation. I have a problem with that and it is so necessary for our leaders to start thinking about this in the future. I still don’t understand as an economist where workers are working for the state and their salary would come from the federal. If we are borrowing our system from America, running a presidential system, have we bothered to ask how they run their economic system? No federal government in America gets money and sends to the states.

Now, if the workers in the state are working for the state-tourism department, industry and works departments and you’ve done work for the state, why are you going to fetch their salary from federal to pay the work that has been done for you in the state? So, it’s just for our leaders to actually look into this and think about how to cause a revolution and change this system in order for the states to take responsibility in making sure that they the states should be run like a private venture where you grow your business and if you are doing well in your business, your state will earn more money in income and your people will actually enjoy the GDP of that particular state as its growing. Now, if state A is doing well and state B is not doing well, state B is not doing well then state B will be under pressure from the people to say look at how state A is doing, we also have the kind of resources they have. Every state in this country has one resource or the other. You have one investment opportunity or the other, you have one way to make money or the other; people should not be talking about taxes-the people who are going to pay these taxes are the same individuals who are already suffering from inflation. I can tell you that taxation is another way of inflation, so we should not over burden the people with taxes. There are many business and investment and tourism opportunities.

Many of these people have rivers and oceans in their areas, have you been able to build a water park that people are going to come Continued on page 31

31

T H I S D AY • WEDNESDAY, JUNE 8, 2016

BUSINESSWORLD

INTERVIEW

EKECHUKWU: IT’S WRONG FOR FEDERAL GOVT TO GIVE BAILOUTS TO STATES TO PAY SALARIES the CBN that there are a whole lot of things that can be restricted in other to grow the local industry but the feeling I have is that many people are beginning to look into the manufacturing of one thing or the other. Now, local manufacturers of furniture did well over a period of time because there was a ban on the importation of furniture in this country, many good and big factories sprang up in Nigeria and they did very well. You also know there was a time we used to import cement until there was a ban and we started opening up opportunity for limestone to be used for the production of cement. Today, we are net exporter of cement to other countries. If you want to stop the importation of rice today, completely by sea or road, but of course you know there’s a ban by sea but no ban by road- whatever the amount of money we would have used in importing, if we should deploy them to the local manufacturers of rice, you’ll be so shocked what we are going to get locally. And so the country is going to save a lot of foreign currencies that we spend in the importation of these items in developing the local industry. And if you develop the local industry, you are also going to create as many jobs as possible and people are going to be busy. You will also see that automatically crime will reduce because a lot of people are gong to be engaged on these farms, factories and agro-allied areas.

from all over the world to see and pay you a lot of money for? These are the questions we’ve not been able to ask ourselves as heads of various states. The state governor should go back and bulls their economic and investment team and think about how to build businesses of their various states so they can start thinking less of getting money from the federation.

Now that the national budget has been passed, what recommendations would you give to the government for maximum impact on the people?

First, the government has to have probably what we call town hall meeting with players in these sectors, for example, the government should sit down with the textile industry players and find out what their problems were: why did you go down in business.

Government should have a total meeting with all the owners and directors of textile factories that shut down in Lagos, Kaduna and other places, sit down with them and articulate one after the other, the reasons why they shut down. Did you close down business because of over-taxation? Did you close down your business because of lack of power which we could not provide through electricity?...how can we come in? It’s only when you sit down with these people that they can outline all their needs and all the things they’ll need to come back to business. When we are talking about bailout, that’s where the bailout should go to-textile industry, brewery industry, the tyre industry. min this country, we watched two major tyre companies-Dunlop and Michelin close down their businesses and they met with government and government could not listen to them and solve their problems and they shut down and over 500 Nigerians workers lost their jobs. They’ve entered into the unemployment market. And so in the same way, we’ve had many other sectors, the manufacturing sector which had closed down just because their needs could not be met. So, I think the first way to start is just to have a town hall meeting and identify their problems and start solving their problems one after the other.

The second major area is the fact that we must provide funding for them with single-digit interest rate over a long period of repayment.

This should be a term loan-you don’t fund these kinds of transactions or restructuring with overdraft. They should be given a term loan that reaches up to fifteen, twenty and thrifty years as the case may be. And then you give them milestones-you don’t just release the entire money to them at a time-give them milestone disbursement-at a particular level, we would give you this....you are going to keep supervising the utilisation of these funds to the extent that you are 100 percent certain that the funds are being utilised for the purposes so they don’t get diverted to other areas. That’s the way to go. Then you make sure that their repayment payment is followed strictly and you penalise them if they don’t repay. And if you do this, each factory that you’ve resuscitated is going to have as many jobs created as possible...And then the power sector must work before the real sector works again.

There are increasing concerns over the galloping inflation, which has made life more difficult for Nigerians. Is there an end in sight?

I have not in the history of economics seen any country that is growing at the rate they want to grow while there’s insecurity their country. It’s not possible for this country to grow where it wants to grow to with the level of insecurity. First, it’s difficult for even Nigerians to invest their money in the midst of insecurity; it’s difficult for foreign investors to come in and invest their money in the midst of insecurity. And so, if you deal with insecurity, then that’s just on one side; the next thing that’s also causing the inflation you are afraid of is the amount of money being spent on the importation of weapons to fight insecurity. These equipment you see on the field are paid for in foreign currencies and they come in very expensive.

That is a major cause of inflation; as far as

Ekechukwu

we keep spending that amount of money on daily, weekly and monthly basis, there’s no way it would not affect is adversely. These are the things that are depleting the foreign reserves of the country. The other thing which is depleting our foreign reserves which is also causing the inflation and fluctuation in exchange rate in the country is the fact that we are spending a lot of our foreign reserves in the importation of petroleum products. I have said it times without number that until we stop the importation of petroleum products, it’s difficult for us to fight inflation today and fight the depression we see ourselves in and it will be difficult to try to build our economy because the amount of money we deploy into the importation of petroleum products is enormous and is enough to overwhelm the country in its economic crisis. Also, you know that each time the price of petroleum product is increased; now note that increasing it is not when government increases the price because that’s not what determines the price of petroleum; what determines the price of petroleum is the one you buy as black market, the one you buy at an unusual filling station, that’s what influences the prices in the market. Until that’s also controlled, and what will control it is to have enough supply of petroleum products in the system. If we have enough, then there’s nobody who will increase his own price of fuel to the extent as to affect prices of goods and services. One other thing which is affecting inflation rate heavily and influencing the prices of goods and services and also impacting negatively on the consumers is the exchange rate. And this exchange rate as I said is being affected by the demand and supply of the foreign currency. Today, we do not have enough supply of the foreign currency be it in pounce or dollar or other currencies-we do not have

enough supply and so because of the price of oil being low, which is one, because of the volume of importation of petroleum products, because of over dependence on importation of generally goods that could have been produced in the country-as long as we continue doing these, there’ll be over dependence on our foreign reserve which will affect our the value of our currency against other currencies and so these are the things that are causing inflation. Until these things are dealt with, it would be difficult to solve the economic problems of the country. Now, economics is this when they say ‘all things being equal’, you can put all the economic theories in place but all these things we have said are not equal. And so until all these things are equal, then economic theories would work but today economic theories are not going to work because of a lot of things drawing them back.

How do you assess the recent restriction placed on 41 items from accessing forex from the official windowed the CBN? I can tell you the decision taken by the CBN was right. From the time it place the restriction, the value of the foreign exchange has stabilised a little. When we were experiencing the hyper-jump in rates is over-even though it’s still high but it’s stabilised. I know from economic point of view that when you restrict importation, you are trying to draw a balance in your balance of trade; you want to have a surplus balance of trade and if you want to have a surplus balance of trade, you are automatically having a surplus balance of payment. Now, this is only going to be possible when you are producing locally and exporting. As far as we keep importing virtually everything, we are not gong to have any positive balance of payment. I agree with

There had been concerns that the reluctance by the CBN to devalue the currency and the lack of an economic blueprint had continued to put off potential foreign investors form the country. What is your perspective on this?

That was then, with the signing of our budget into law. By the time investors had this fears there was no budget in place and now that we have a budget, there’s something that also looks like a blueprint in the budget and we expect government will follow the blueprint but I also know that any investor who’s not coming in because we’ve not devalued our currency is not the kind of investor we want. I am an economist and I have looked at the merits and demerits of devaluation and seen that we are not better of with a devaluation of our currency.

So our currency in my opinion should not be devalued because if we devalue this currency, the common people of Nigeria are going to suffer it because inflation is going to swallow whatever disposable income anybody has today. And when the inflation of this country goes up, it hardly comes down and so we cannot devalue right now. The blueprint of our country is good enough for any investor to come in once the issue of security is addressed and we also hope the price of oil will not crash below it current levels so we can stabilise and plan based on our $38 per barrel projection.

Following a negative growth rate in GDP for the first quarter of the year, do you agree that the threat of the economy falling into recession is real?

GDP is the aggregate value of the goods and services produced within the country over a period, usually, a fiscal period. With Nigeria’s oil production capacity dropping by a reasonable percentage, reduction in production capacity due to a drop in electricity supply, the delay of signing the 2016 budget into law, and the debt burden of the country, the GDP is expected to drop.

The implication is that so many jobs are already lost, our revenue base is reduced and our external reserves will also be affected negatively. For a country to be said to be in an economic recession, there should be significant decline in economic activity spread across the country lasting for more than a few months and visible in Real GDP, Real Income, employment, production and general sales activities.

The question is; are we experiencing already, general decline in economic activities in the country and other indices mentioned above? The answer is Yes. What we should be measuring now is the extent or size of recession facing Nigeria. Then we will know the depth of the recession.

32

T H I S D AY • WEDNESDAY, JUNE 8, 2016

BUSINESSWORLD

INSURANCE

Oyetunji: Terrorism Insurance is the Most Profitable Line of Business

Dr. Femi Oyetunji is the Managing Director of Continental Reinsurance Plc. He spoke with Ebere Nwoji on the place of African Reinsurers in the global market in the face of diverse economic challenges facing the continent, positing that terrorism insurance has remained very profitable. Excerpts Insurance business generally has been tough because of the economic situation not only in Nigeria but across the globe, how has this affected the reinsurance business generally?

The reinsurance market in Nigeria cannot be exempted from what is happening across the globe. Africa is going through tough times. You know most of African economies depend on commodities. Commodities prices be it copper, gold, crude oil, have gone down so the economies have been affected and when economies are affected, you have a downturn and the first causality has always been insurance. So we have seen a lot of reduction in interest in insurance.

We have seen asset values going down; we have also seen a new risk coming to the forefront. The risk we face now is risk of currency fluctuation. Nigeria has been negatively impacted.

chance. It is because the regulators decided to fund the training of actuaries. We have no choice in Nigeria than to commit funds to training of actuaries because there is no way insurance can thrive without active involvement of actuaries.

So how have you been coping?

If you look at Continental Re’s strategy in the past five years, it has been that of diversification and that is what someone has been questioning even within Nigeria that what will be success formula for 2016 going forward. It has to be innovation and diversification. For us at Continental Re, we have been fortunate that we have been able to build a diversified platform. It started off in Lagos some 30 years ago. We have branches in Duala, Cameroon, Abidjan, Coted’voir; we have a subsidiary in Kenya, we have a subsidiary in Botswana and a branch in Tunisia in North Africa .So we have Africa well covered and diversified.

We have brought in talents from diaspora to join our operations across Africa.

We have been very quick to react to the needs of our clients. So we are bringing all these together across Africa diversification in innovation and we have been able to see our company grow both in Naira and dollar terms.

There is this problem of non patronage of indigenous insurance firms in Nigeria, we see projects going on in the country but they are not insured in Nigeria. How has that impacted on reinsurance business in Nigeria, are they really patronising you?

No, they are not and in fact, what we see is that some of these risks are now being offered to us from outside Africa.

But again, part of the thinking is for us to know where the investments are going and when the investments are going, are we able to be on ground to talk about insurance, and when these deals are going, for money to come in through infrastructure, insurance is tucked in somewhere in small print and we lose out. But I think there is going to be a concerted effort and the regulatory bodies should support us and government too. But it is not just in Nigeria.

We were just talking about one big dam in Botswana financed by funds from China and 75 percent of the insurance is going to China. So we need to know when these bills are being put together so that as insurers and reinsurers, we will be there to ensure that our interests are protected.

How are you coping with terrorism insurance, from which area have you got the biggest claims since the advent of terrorism in Nigeria?

Actually, claims from terrorism have been limited. That has been one of the most profitable lines of business to us.

What we found out is that when there is

Oyetunji

going to be election, enquiries about political violence and terrorism go up. They will take the policies and by and large, we have done well in Africa in the past few years in terms of quality of our elections. So we have not seen what people feared and that means that we have learnt that elections don’t have to end in political violence. Also, terrorism is usually localised and we have seen concerted effort to fight against terrorism both in Nigeria, Kenya, and elsewhere and I do believe that because there has also been international approach to it and so success has been achieved. So in terms of claims, it has not been substantial.

Which line of business gave you the most challenging claims?

That is property and fire. There was a big one in Cameroon last year and claims from flood from Accra Ghana last year; they are the two largest claims we had from West Africa.

How can you rate yourself in African market?

Right now in African market, Continental Re is the largest privately owned Reinsurance company in Africa. Our vision is to be the premier of Africa Reinsurance business.

In terms of volume of business, we are number five, that is because as you know, we don’t have any compulsory cession .

Reinsurance companies that are bigger than us are government owned and quasi government reinsurance companies, which you know have compulsory cession. We are very proud of our achievement over the past few years and we are putting everything in place to ensure that in the next few years we are on top.

You are the most experience Actuarial Scientist in Nigeria and dearth of Actuarial scientist has remained a big business in Nigeria, what advice do you have as to how to grow young brains in this aspect of insurance?

First of all, we must accept and realise that we need actuaries. When we talk about the biggest insurance market in Africa, you talk about the development of actuarial profession in these markets. South Africa has the largest insurance market, South Africa has by far the largest number of actuaries in Africa. Kenya has the next highest insurance penetration, Kenya has next to highest number of Actuaries after South Africa. These things don’t happen by

Capital flight has been a big problem in Africa but regulators in Africa often compel insurers to sign treaties with foreign reinsurers, with capital flight being a major challenge, is it still necessary to compel them to do that?

I don’t think they are compelled to do that. It is a global thing. Those overseas companies are international ‘A’ rated players, so everything seems to work against African companies. These companies are ‘A’ rated companies and they have been around for over 200 years.

And reinsurance is at infancy stage in Africa, we must realise that Rome was not built in a day and we shouldn’t apply the same requirement for us as the Europeans. They come to our market, so we should go to their market but we can’t because the first thing they look at is your rating. Continental Re has the third best rating in Africa in reinsurance, so I’m not against rating, we are doing well and we are looking forward to getting an upgrading in rating but we cannot come to our own continent and we are waving the same red flag so the regulators will really need to help us. Nigeria is doing well in terms of making sure that local capacities are exhausted before anything is externalised.

Now the regulators will do their own, we have to do ours, we need to build solid institutions, we need to build good balance sheet, we need to be able to demonstrate to the insured that when there is a claim, we will be able to pay; but what again I want to point out is that having ‘A’ rating does not imply the willingness to pay.

Ability to pay does not mean willingness to pay. For us African reinsurers, we have the ability and willingness to pay because we are next door to these risks. So we have discussed with the rating agencies and say why don’t you do regional ratings but as far as they are concerned, because of the nature of our business, which is international, they don’t have to segregate.

But for us in Continental Re, we know what the rules are, we know what to do to get improved rating but we need the support of the regulator in one form or the other to protect us from uneven playing field we found ourselves now.

The local content in Nigeria, is it working for insurance industry?

Yes, it has been a great success in Nigeria.

If it is not there, I can assure you that most of us will not be in business now because the size of balance sheet of some of the big global companies would have placed them in vantage position to write everything that is there and if you also look at the big risks, they are all owned by multinationals with head office in US, China and Europe.

So they will be more comfortable dealing with companies from their own base. So we need things like local content, but it is not yet in full session.

At what level are we now in compliance with local content?

If you ask me in oil and gas, I will say we are at 10 percent, other classes like engineering, fire, property, I don’t think we are doing up to 40 percent.

33

T H I S D AY • WEDNESDAY, JUNE 8, 2016

BUSINESSWORLD

NEWS

Sovereign Trust Insurance Pays N3bn Claims in First Quarter Ebere Nwoji Sovereign Trust Insurance Plc, said it paid out a total sum of N386,933,565.26, as claims in the first quarter of 2016.

The company said in a statement made available to THISDAY that the total claims figure was duly verified by the Industry’s regulatory authority, the National Insurance Commission (NAICOM) for the period under review.

A breakdown of the claims composition paid by the company revealed that Motor Insurance claim recorded the highest figure of N151,401,865.12, followed

by General Accident, which accounted for N140,800,782.03 ,N78,830,490.06 was paid as claim from Fire Insurance.

Other figures as released by the organisation are N9,900,023.79) for Marine & Aviation Insurance while

N6,000,403.46, was paid as claim from Engineering class of insurance.

Commenting on the claims payment, the Divisional Head, Technical, of Sovereign Trust, Mr. Rufai Tajudeen said that the company is totally committed to settling all genuine claims within agreeable periods.

“There is no compromise to claims settlement in Sovereign Trust Insurance and that will always remain so to keep our

customers always coming back.

Prompt claims settlement no doubt will remain the enduring yardstick for our customers in determining whether we are delivering on our promise or not. We do not intend to fall short of this obligation and we will continually strive to make good our promise at every point in time”, he stated.

He further said that the company has put in place a friendly claim process, which

ensures that customers do not go through undue bureaucratic process in getting their claims settled in good time.

Also speaking, Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of the company, Mr. Olaotan Soyinka stated that over the years, the company’s prompt claims settlement has helped to strengthen the relationship between it and its various customers across the country.

“We do not allow our custom-

ers to go through distasteful experience in the process of getting their claims settled.

Our processes are hinged on professionalism, speed, ethics and promptness.”He said Sovereign Trust Insurance is fast emerging as a reckoning force in the Nigerian Insurance Industry with its extensive branch network spread across the geographic regions of the country.

higher level.

Speaking on the payment, Mrs. Ajoke Lawal of Public Affairs Unit, Lagos State Pension Commission, (LASPEC) said the payment, has brought the number of retirees paid between August 2015 and May, 2016 to 3,344, adding that the total accrued pension rights for years spent under the Pay As You Go pension scheme

paid on behalf of retirees by the state government from the aforementioned month to date is N14.703,856 billion.

In another development, Folashade has emerged the Pension Amazon of the year and Lagos State Government as the Most Pension Compliant State in the third edition of Business Today Online Pension and Insurance Awards 2015.

CPS: LASG Pays N1.3billion to Retirees The Lagos State government has issued Retirement Benefit Bond Certificates to the tune of N1.002, 856 billion to 275 retirees from the Mainstream, Local Government, SUBEB, TEPO and Parastatals of government, under the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS) for the Month of May, 2016.

With this, the state is leading in compliance with the

Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS).

The Director-General, LASPEC, Mrs. Folashade Onanuga disclosed this at the 27th batch Retirement Benefit Bond Certificate Presentation Ceremony held in Lagos.

The Director-General, LASPEC, Mrs. Folashade Onanuga disclosed this while speaking at the 27th batch Retire-

ment Benefit Bond Certificate Onanuga, who was represented by the Head of Technical Directorate, LASPEC, Mr. Olawale Otun, advised the retirees/beneficiaries to make judicious use of the money being presented, adding that this could be turned to assets.

She informed the retirees that the activities of the pension fraudsters, who often put calls

through to retirees, informing them of alleged short payments in their entitlements, have been reduced drastically, due to the steps taken by the commission in the area of sensitisation. She however urged the pensioners to be vigilant and smart.

In appreciation, the enthusiastic retirees wished the administration the best as it continues to take Lagos to a

Why US Group Chose Nigeria for Innovators’ Seminar A United States group, USAF Global Business Development, has said that it elected to come to Nigeria for the world’s most enterprising innovators’ seminar slated for 18th of June’ 2016 in Lagos because of the enterprising nature of the people and their strong will always for

success. Scheduled to hold at the Lagos Sheraton Hotel and Towers and later in the United States on October 6-8, 2016, the one-day seminar tagged, ‘An Evening with the World’s Most Forward Thinking Innovators,’ the organisers said, will enable the teaming Nigerian business

enthusiasts to meet and share ideas with the world’s most enterprising innovators.

The seminar, according to the organiser, will feature speakers on global business opportunities, education, networking, mentorship and inspiration drawn mostly

from the United States and other parts of the world.

The American group said it is its vision to reshape the future of global education and entrepreneurship, develop those who aspire to be the next world ambassadors to lead with confidence and

intellect and to make education and entrepreneurship translate into success for all.

USAF said it has crashed the cost of the groundbreaking seminar to N10, 000.00 to allow more participation by Nigerians, promising early registrants a

discount of 10 percent for the US seminar scheduled for the later part of the year.

Registration for the seminar, it stated, is Online only at www. usafglobe.com and enjoined registrants to do so early as seats for the evening business talk are limited.

34

T H I S D AY • WEDNESDAY, JUNE 8, 2016

BUSINESSWORLD

PERSPECTIVE

Lighting up Nigeria: The Investors’ Nightmare Adeyinka Giwa Dateline: June 2012, Egbin Power Plant.

The 4 unit Gas powered Electricity generating plant wore the look of a consignment set aside for a power plant museum. In a state of disrepair and neglect, and lacking in overhaul maintenance for decades, the plant managed to epileptically produce a paltry 400 Megawattsof its installed capacity of 1,320 Megawatts, at its best performance.

The workforce’s ordeal was similar, if not worse, than the plant they were supposed to work on. Frustrated owing to several years of stagnation in one position without prospect of career fulfillment or growth, the workers were a study in how low morale can run down a vibrant entity. They exhibited neither any sense of purpose nor any eagerness to make things happen. They took everything, including the most urgent of tasks, unbelievably easy.

Fast forward to May 2016. From a distance you could feel the new; vibrant Egbin Power Plant. The Power units are overhauled, upgraded and sparkling; producing, when gas is sufficiently available at its full production capacity of 1,320 MW. In the workers, the sense of urgency and commitment to the task at hand is palpable: young, energetic, well kitted, these guys appear ready to drive this project to the next level. That next level is the Investor’s plan to double the plant’s production in the first five years of taking over.

Since November 2013 when Sahara Power, a subsidiary of Sahara Group bought 70 percent stake in Egbin Thermal power plant, the vast complex has come back to life and the plant, after a comprehensive overhaul which cost the new investors some $388 million, has resumed production, at full capacity barring no disruption to gas supply.

With the 1, 320 MW of electricity, Egbin currently produces one quarter of Nigeria’s total power capacity. Today, new facilities and structures have been put in place by Sahara Power, the new investors in collaboration with their technical partners, Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO). These include the upgrading and modernization of the plant, training institutions, social infrastructures and recreational facilities for the wellbeing of staff.

Egbin Power Station now boasts of skilled manpower, world class professionals and in general, a well motivated workforce. That is why Kola Adesina, chairman, Egbin Power Plc.. can beat his chest and assert that “since we acquired the assets our passion has been to embark on constant upgrades in technology and investment in human capital to ensure we light up Nigeria. I make bold to state that our staff in Egbin rank among the best in Africa when it comes to power generation. In fact, they remain the drivers of our relentless quest for excellence and desire to redefine power generation on the continent.”

But beneath the giant strides so far achieved by the Egbin Power Station, lies a huge challenge. The power station currently suffers shortage of natural gas. The situation is worsened by renewed militancy in the creeks of the Niger Delta region, where oil and gas pipelines are being blown up on regular basis. This is a more compelling reason why the federal government must get its acts right in ensuring that peace returns to the region.

The company is at present grappling with economic woes occasioned by difficulties in accessing foreign exchange. At the time of the acquisition of the assets by the new investors, the exchange rate was N198 to the dollar. Having raised capital from banks, the investors are now faced with the harsh reality of paying back in time of economic down turn. Indeed, the company is in trouble with the current exchange rate ragime. As a result of the harsh economic situation, liquidity problem has also set in, making it increasingly difficult for the company to finance its capital intensive operations.

One of the most difficult situations the

Transmission station

company is currently facing is the huge legacy debt burden. It is estimated that electricity distribution companies (Discos) are being owed about N100 billion in the last two years. For these companies to live up to expectation, the government must take steps to settle these debts owed by its agencies. The bulk of these huge debts are money DISCOs are to pay the generation companies, the gas companies and others in the value chain of the power sector.

Indeed, power generation companies in Nigeria are owed, according to Adesina, “an estimated 100 billion in accumulated debts for power generated from November 1, 2013 till date”. Of this figure, Egbin is owed 44 billion for power generated from December 2015 to date and another 22 billion in past debts, bringing the total amount to 66 billion.

“These huge debts owed generation companies”, lamented Adesina,” has put them in a cash liquidity crisis that has reduced their ability to pay gas supplies, and hence threatens to completely undermine the Electricity value chain and its ability to continue to serve customers.”

The issue of gas however goes beyond generation companies’ inability to pay for the quantity supplied. Dallas Peavey Jr., Chief Executive Officer of the power station laments the persistent shortage of gas supply despite the huge investment the owners have made to boost the capacity of the power plant. This, he said, has heightened continuing challenges in ending daily blackout in the country since private investors took over the station.

Against the backdrop of the many challenges facing the power sector in Nigeria, government, through the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) under the Multi-Year Tariff Order (MYTO) 2015, sought ways of reducing the heavy burden on private sector investors in the sector by reviewing the tariff. Even with initial opposition from the Nigerian public and Organized Labour unions, the new tariff regime still took effect from February 2016.

Babatunde Fashola, Minister for Power, Works and Housing made a concerted effort to explain to Nigerians, the rationale behind the new price regime. “The truth is that tariff is about price and if the raw materials like gas, power plants, spare parts, labour

have gone up the price of the finished product cannot be the same,” said Fashola.

He stressed that “if the price of the product is not right there is no incentive to produce more of it. This can only result in scarcity and high prices. It is simple economics.

Without the right tariff there will be no power because it is now in the control of entrepreneurs.”

That was very instructive but as convincing and logical as Fashola sounded in this regard; the Senate directed that the new price regime should be suspended, apparently in sympathy with the consumers. But then, in the long run, the Senate, the labour and other pressure groups urging consumers not to pay the tariff may not be helping the consumers at the end of the day. If power is underpriced, Investor would not only run at a loss, but may lead to a situation where they will not be able to generate and take power to the consumers- a total power sector collapse, a much dreaded situation that could take the economy to its tethers end.

Yet as serious as the issues of debt and cost reflective tariff are to the sector, these are not the only critical challenges confronting the investors.

Transmission is another. While some observers say there has been some noticeable reduction in system collapse in the transmission network post privatization, other analysts are concerned that the numbers of collapses are still too many to call for worries, citing 2016 where system collapses by mid-year had exceeded the ones experienced in 2015.

The reality on ground today is that the investors in the power sector are agonizing and wondering if they took the right decision in the first place. Prior to take-over, they had looked forward to: realistic tariffs, stable exchange rate and steady supply of forex to fund required investment, a 100 billion subsidy support from the Federal government; a supportive and enthusiastic banking sector and security of gas pipeline for regular supply.

The realities on ground today are however almost the exact opposite of what the investors had looked forward to. Tension in the Niger Delta has drastically reduced gas supply thereby significantly reducing levels of power generation, hitting an all-time low

of 1,816 MW on 29th May 2016, huge tariffs losses due to MDA’s indebtedness and non or partial implementation of cost reflective tariff.

Contrary to expectation, there is no federal government subsidy, but CBN intervention fund at a higher and unattractive rate, over exposure of banking sector to loans from power sector and floating forex rate, 198 to the dollar in MYTO vs 298/330 to the dollar, compounded by inflation at 13% rather than 8 percent in MYTO. All these sum up to one disturbing fact: All generation companies have been operating at a loss since privatization.

Unless some drastic measures are taken by the government, the nation may be heading to a major Energy Crisis of grave implications to the economy.

So what’s to be done? Adesina, in a paper he presented at the Lagos Business School recently, broke his recommendations for a way out of the logjam into two. One, Sector funding. Here, the Egbin Power Plc. Boss advocates full implementation of cost reflective tariffs, otherwise subsidies be provided to cover shortfall; immediate payment of all MDAs’ debt, full funding of TCN or it should be concessioned to ensure improvement in grid stability and easy access to fund by investors.

The second leg of the recommendations was captured under regulating reforms.

Here, Mr. Adesina wants the regulator to be consistent and fair, respect for contracts legally consummated, legislative measures – including initiatives like mobile courts, to discourage power theft.

With the huge resources that these private sector investors have committed to turn around this power plant, and the numerous challenges they are still facing in their quest to ensure steady power supply, everything that is required to ensure that they meet their targets must be put in place without further delay. Government may have to summon an urgent meeting of all stakeholders in the power sector from which urgent measures to light up Nigeria will be arrived at and immediately executed to the letter.

Nigerians have suffered enough of energy crisis.

• Giwa , wrote in from Ikeja, Lagos

35

T H I S D AY • WEDNESDAY,JUNE 8, 2016

EDUCATION ‘Post-UTME Should be Reviewed, Not Scrapped’ As reactions continue to trail the news of the proposed scrapping of the post-UTME by the Minister of Education, Mallam Adamu Adamu, some university administrators have argued that the minister’s intention was for universities to revert to the original concept of post-UTME, not outright cancellation.

Uchechukwu Nnaike, Funmi Ogundare and Adedayo Akinwale report

Nigerian Students writing university qualification examination

Expectedly, the recent statement by the Minister of Education, Mallam Adamu Adamu against the post-Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (post-UTME) when he said there will be no need for universities to conduct another test for students to gain admission, generated mixed reactions among stakeholders in the country’s education sector.

The minister had while declaring open the 2016 combined policy meeting on admissions to degree, National Certificate in Education, National Diploma and National Innovation Diploma Awarding Institutions in Abuja, expressed confidence in the UTME conducted by the Joint Admissions and matriculation Board (JAMB), saying, “as far as I am concerned, JAMB has built a level of confidence in terms of conducting the UTME, a situation where universities go and conduct other examinations is unnecessary.”

Though some stakeholders, especially parents and civil rights organisations received were delighted at the news of the proposed scrapping of post-UTME, academics and other administrators think it will not be a good idea, as the screening was the idea of vice-chancellors who felt that that the UTME was not enough.

For those in favour of the cancellation of postUTME, their decision could be as a result of the abuse of the screening by most universities; the risk encountered by candidates while travelling to write the examination; the extortion of parents by universities through that means, among others.

Commending the government for proposed scrapping of UTME, a group under the aegis of Stand Up Nigeria said the move would boost the anti-graft war in the education sector. Describing the news as a welcome development, the group said it would put an end to the generation of revenue that does not get to the government coffers.

In a statement signed by the Secretary General, Sunday Attah, it described the examination as a loophole for corruption that allows tertiary institution staff to admit preferred candidates by technically voiding the UMTE scores.

It stressed that most institutions have turned the exercise to a corrupt means of impoverishing innocent Nigerians; while also describing it as an exploitative practice to “extort admission seekers

under the guise of screening them for competence.

“We therefore see the scrapping of this controversial examination as a boost to the anti-corruption fight in the education sector as it will end the generation of revenue that does not get to the government coffers.

“We all know the state JAMB was in before Professor Dibu Ojerinde stepped in to revamp and reposition the place. Today, the confidence of the government is such that it was able to argue that there should be no need for universities to conduct internal examinations to determine the fate of candidates seeking admissions because of the absolute confidence in JAMB. The minister of education also confirmed that JAMB has built a level of confidence in terms of conducting the UTME.” the statement added: “We know that those who favour the post-UMTE test will soon mount a campaign for its sustenance or reintroduction.

The influential parents who must manipulate the admission process for their children, owners of miracle examination centres, admission racketeering cabals in tertiary institutions are a few of those that we know we put pressure on the authorities to reverse this laudable directive.

“But we want to put them on notice that Nigerians will not accept a return to writing post-UMTE test now that JAMB is perfecting the Computer Based Test (CBT) that renders it unnecessary to the extent that the government did the needful by scrapping it.”

The group commended Ojerinde and his team for bringing about the change that restored the credibility of the examination body and urged him to surpass the bar he has set by consolidating on the changes he has brought to JAMB. It also appealed to the minister of education to put machinery in motion to expand the tertiary education system to be able to handle more students, adding that this would reduce the pressure on the limited available spaces.

However, university administrators have described the news of the cancellation of postUTME as untrue, saying that the minister only expressed concern that universities are conducting examinations that are similar to that of JAMB.

According to the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman, Governing Council of Crawford University, Igbesa, Ogun State, Prof.

Peter Okebukola, “the correct position as reported by the vice-chancellors is that the minister directed that universities should no longer conduct the same type of test as JAMB, but are free to further subject candidates to screening to meet their local peculiarities.”

Okebukola, a former Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission (NUC) said: “The VCs expressed satisfaction with the current nature of JAMB’s UTME testing leading to the conclusion at the meeting not to duplicate UTME at the university level. This development is very gladdening for me as it now takes us back to the original model of post-UME which NUC initiated in 2004 while I was serving as executive secretary.”

He said the 2004 model had a screening component, which was agreed with all vice-chancellors to be through oral interview and essay which JAMB assessment does not cover.

“More than ever before, we need to admit into our universities, secondary school leavers, from the large pool, those who have at least two characteristics: attained minimum cognitive competence in the relevant subjects in the discipline they wish to study and competence in written and oral English, critical thinking and ability to present ideas in logical sequence befitting of undergraduates in Africa’s most-expansive and well-regarded university system. JAMB’s UTME targets only the first characteristic; while the university-level screening should measure the second.”

Also an advocate of post-UTME is the ViceChancellor of Edwin Clark University, Kiagbodo, Delta State, Prof. Timothy Olugbemiro, who described post-UTME as a further weeding process to peg the number of students into a given academic programme for efficient service delivery and quality education, adding that it should not be scrapped.

“It is a way of validating the students’ JAMB exam result for entry in view of students’ desperation for university degree. It should not be scrapped. Anyone who believes in standards

should embrace this credible scheme, more work needs to be done to perfect the system.”

Similarly, the Vice-Chancellor of Fountain University, Osogbo, Prof. Bashir Raji, believes that JAMB has done a lot of re-engineering by the introduction of paperless testing and doing away with paper examination, this he said has reduced examination malpractice. However, he said more work needs to be done to perfect the system.

“JAMB is on the right path and if sustained we might see the end of examination malpractice.

I need to warn that the human element that is prone to corruption should be critically assessed so that it does not become the weakest link in the process. Some universities would still continue with the original concept of ‘screening’ and not actually writing examination as it is currently done.”

A lecturer in the department of Mass Communication, University of Lagos, Dr. Ismail Ibraheem, said the decision of the government to scrap the post UTME is ill conceived and not well thought out, saying that the decision to introduce the screening was informed by the lapses in the administration of the UTME by JAMB. “Before the government will scrap it, there should be evidence to show that those lapses have been addressed. The decision signals a pedestrian and lazy approach to public policy on the part of the government.”

Another university administrator against the scrapping of UTME is Chief Afe Babalola, the founder of Afe Babalola University, Ekiti State who was quoted as saying that the post-UTME was initiated in 2003 when it was discovered that most of the students admitted into Nigerian universities through JAMB were not only academically deficient, but could not justify the high marks they scored.

According to him, “the post-UTME has proved to be a veritable quality control measure, which I believe had been working and working well.

He stressed that every university has the right to screen the candidates it wants to admit, as well as the right to embark on other exercises, whether written or unwritten to make it and its products stand out.

36

T H I S D AY • WEDNESDAY,JUNE 8, 2016

EDUCATION

Lagos Restates Commitment to One-meal-aday Programme Funmi Ogundare

The Lagos State Government has reiterated its commitment to the implementation of the one-meal-a-day programme aimed at increasing the nutrition content of students’ meals to keep them healthy and encourage more of them to stay in school.

The Deputy Governor, Dr. Oluranti Adebule, who disclosed this recently while presenting the state government’s scorecard to mark Governor Akinwunmi

Ambode’s first year in office, said efforts are ongoing to perfect the programme.

“The state government has made provision for the programme in the budget to show its commitment, but it is awaiting the intervention of the federal government since it was designed to be funded by the federal and state governments on a 60:40 ratio counterpart funding. Thus, there was the need to wait on the federal government to kick start the programme.”

She said the distribution

of tablets with the current academic curriculum is also receiving adequate attention, adding that the state would not rush into taking any junk as tablets, as efforts are under way to select master tutors who would write the contents of the tablet. Responding to a question about exposing children in the riverine and rural parts of the state to ICT, Adebule who superintends the ministry of education, said the state is working on providing solar-powered electricity in many of such schools so that

there would be electricity to power the computer units that might be distributed to them to get optimum value for money and necessary impact on the children.

She blamed the problem of out-of-school children on the crisis rocking many parts of the country, making people to flee to safer zones like Lagos. She said the first step would be to interface with the parents of such children and enlighten them on the need to enroll them in school and the danger of doing otherwise.

According to her, it is only when such people have settled down and properly guided that recalcitrant ones can be made to face the law.

In another development, the state government has warned that anyone who perpetrates violence against children in any form, be it physical, sexual, psychological, deliberate neglect, kidnap and child trafficking would be dealt with according to the dictates of the law.

The governor disclosed this in an address delivered

on his behalf by Adebule at the grand finale of activities marking this year’s Children’s Day held at the Nigeria Police College Parade ground with the theme, ‘Stop Violence against Children’. He stated that he shares in the children’s vision of a very bright future and urged them to upscale their academic performance by preparing well ahead of all examinations and shun malpractices because it is not only criminal and immoral, but also ends one’s career when caught.

Creativity, Missing Link in Education System, Says Agbaje Peace Obi A two-time Lagos State governorship aspirant, Mr. Jimi Agbaje, has identified lack of creativity as the bane of the country’s current education system, stressing that while governments and educators strive to improve society’s literacy level, there is need for creativity to be embedded in the education.

Speaking at the eighth Total School Support/Exhibition (TOSSE) in Lagos recently, Agbaje who chaired the occasion noted that the education of the ‘new world’ demands that it be laced with creativity and capable of producing creative thinkers.

“What is missing in our education system today is creativity.

Creativity is as important as literacy. We are no longer in the factory world when you are just producing children that are just going to work in the factory.

“No, it is a whole new world out there and it is about creativity. And so education today must be about producing creative thinkers, if we are not doing that for so long, then our children will be graduating with CVs that cannot get them jobs.”

Agbaje hinted that time has passed when people paraded good results devoid of some creative abilities. “Things that are creative should be things that are included in our curriculum.

So, in the new world, the CVs

are not going to have ‘I have a first class’. They are going to include other things such as ‘I have created a robot in my secondary school, I have painted this, I can sing this, I can do that’.

“Things that are creative will be things that will be included in tomorrow’s CV. That is the way forward and that is the only way we are going to move forward in our country and it is very important.”

While stressing that education is at the base of every form of human development, the chairman said if truly Nigeria realises this, the country would not at this stage still have high record of out-of-school children in primary and secondary schools.

“If we believe that education is the most powerful weapon to change our world, then we should not have statistics where we have every one in every three children not in primary school or one in every four not in secondary school. That we still have so many people not in the education system is creating a lot of problems for the future.”

In her remarks, the representative of the Lagos State Deputy Governor, Mrs. Titilayo Solarin, encouraged residents and corporate entities to pay their taxes so that the state’s efforts at providing quality education and the attainment of self-reliance and socio-economic development can be realised.

CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY

L-R: The Project Engineer, ExxonMobil Erha North Phase 2 EPC 1, Richard Megafu; Anambra State Commissioner for Education, Prof. Kate Omenugha; and Chief Chuma Agbakoba, Adazie Ogulani of Onitsha, at the inauguration of the e-library donated to All Saints Primary School, Onitsha, Anambra State, under the Community Assistance Programme of ExxonMobil subsidiary, Esso Exploration and Production Nigeria Limited’s Erha North Phase 2 EPC1 project… recently

Yoruba Language Should Be Compulsory in Schools, Says Ishola Femi Durojaiye A renowned Yoruba Language scholar, playwright and actor, Professor Akinwunmi Ishola, has called for the promotion of the language, saying that people are better known by their languages and culture.

Ishola, who made this known while delivering a lecture at a Yoruba Summit, organised by the Lagos State House of Assembly with the theme, ‘Making the Teaching of Yoruba Compulsory in Public and Private Schools in Lagos State’, said the essence of speaking one’s language cannot be over-emphasised.

Ishola, who was represented

by Professor Duro Adeleke of

‘FUTO Currently Ranks 8th Best Varsity’ Amby Uneze in Owerri The Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the 10th Governing Council of the Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO), Dr. Emmanuel Enemuo, has commended the outgoing ViceChancellor of the institution, Professor Cyril Asiabaka for making the institution attain an enviable academic excellence during his tenure.

Enemuo gave the commendation at a valedictory colloquium in honour of Asiabaka whose tenure expires this month as the sixth substantive vice-chancellor of the institution.

Asiabaka, who hails from AwoIdemili, in the Orsu Council Area of Imo State, took over the mantle of leadership of the university from the late Professor Celestine Onwuliri in 2011 and is expected to hand over to the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Administration, Professor Francis Chukwuemeka Eze. According to Enemuo, the institution which is the country’s premier university of technology, established in 1980 by the President Shehu Shagari administration is now the eighth in the ranking of universities in the country by the National Universities Com-

mission (NUC) as against its former 48th position.

“Asiabaka has brought about monumental physical development and infrastructure into FUTO and the university is now being governed with strict sense of discipline, there are no more examination malpractices, selling of handouts, sexual harassment and cultism is now a thing of the past in FUTO.” He attributed the achievement of the outgoing vice-chancellor to the unflinching support and cooperation of the members of the governing council and enjoined them to extend the same to his successor.

the University of Ibadan, stated that India and some Arab countries that were colonised by the British did not neglect their local languages and that they have liberated themselves.

“We should speak Yoruba in our institutions. Yoruba is one of the languages recommended to be taught in our schools to promote unity and it occupies a prominent position among languages in the world.

“If you lose your language, you will lose your culture. The language of a people has to do with their culture, dresses, hairstyle and some other things.”

Ishola explained that Yoruba is rich in greetings and that it has greetings for all occasions,

saying that ‘Ifa’ Oracle was sent to UNESCO in 2004 and it was recognised as being rich in culture in 2005.

He suggested that the Yoruba Language should be made compulsory in all primary and secondary schools in the state and that it should be a general study in colleges of education, polytechnics and universities, adding that books written in foreign languages should be interpreted into Yoruba Language.

In his remarks at the wellattended ceremony, the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi commended the organisers, saying that obas in Yorubaland would support any move to

promote the Yoruba Language.

He said the first person to conduct a research on the impact of languages to development was the late Professor Babs Fafunwa.

“The first African Bishop, Ajayi Crowther translated Hebrew and English bibles into Yoruba Language and about 11 other languages, while emphasising that our language is our culture.

Also speaking, the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Ogunwusi, urged Yorubas to see themselves as leaders, while stressing that God has blessed them in many ways.

The monarch regretted said Yorubas are not promoting their culture and language as a result of in-fighting and disunity,

2016 Cowbellpedia Records Increased Participation The result of the 2016 Cowbellpedia Mathematics qualifying examination recently released by the National Examinations Council (NECO) has revealed that there are four perfect scores from three schools.

A total of 46,698 students, comprising 4,892 (junior category) and 22,443 (senior category) sat for the qualifying examination in 235 centres across the country on March 19, 2016.

This year’s enrolment is 40 per cent higher than last

year’s figure with three states recording the highest enrolment growth. They are Kaduna, 214 per cent; Kebbi, 164 per cent; and Sokoto, 146 per cent.

From the 46,698, enrolment figure, 108 students (54 each from junior and senior categories) will proceed to the second stage, which is the television quiz show. The figure is made up of the top 20 for the two categories; and 34 best scores, based on one per state.

The second stage, which will be in quiz format, will be further sub-divided into

preliminary, semifinals and finals stages. The show will be serialised into 13 episodes and will be aired on 14 television stations across the country.

The Managing Director of Promasidor Nigeria Limited, Mr. Olivier Thiry, acknowledged NECO, state ministries of education, school principals, teachers, the press and other partner agencies for supporting the initiative over the years.

He explained that the company has significantly increased the prize money for the finals for both students

T H I S D AY • WEDNESDAY,JUNE 8, 2016

37

EDUCATION

The Road Leading to Parkinsonism

A teacher at the NigerianTurkish International Colleges (NTIC) demonstrating the use of a solar dish designed by students of the school during the science and art fair it organised in Abuja… recently

NTIC Unlocks Students’Ingenuity with Science, Art Fair

The science and art fair recently organised by the Nigerian Turkish International Colleges (NTIC), Abuja can be described as a memorable experience for students from all NTIC branches across the country as it enabled them display artistic, scientific and technology-oriented inventions geared towards creating a better future for the human race. Uchechukwu Nnaike reports This year’s science and art fair organised by the Nigerian Turkish International Colleges (NTIC), Abuja has shown the innovative capabilities of students of the school as they demonstrated their readiness to make an impact on the society through their inventions.

The fair, which recently held at the school premises in Abuja served as a platform for the exhibition of amazing inventions by students of NTIC Abuja and also witnessed a computer competition (Infotech) between students from NTIC Abuja, Lagos, Ogun, Kaduna, Kano and Yobe branches.

Visitors to the fair were impressed by the view of a moving solar car made of steel and powered by solar panels designed and created by one of the students, which the students took turns to drive.

There was an electricity generating system next to the solar powered car. The project was shaped in form of a large dish made of mirrors which detects light from sunlight and takes it to a tank filled with water that is heated up and converted into steam. The steam goes into turbines and electricity is generated. The electricity generating system is an infinite generating system and involves no form of air pollution.

According to the Coordinator of the Science Fair, Gungor Sahin, who is also the Head, Department of Physics, NTIC Abuja, the event which began last year as an annual science fair and covered five science subjects: physics, chemistry, biology, maths and computer was named the science and art fair because the school decided to incorporate its art and social science branches. “The aim of the fair is to make NTIC students become innovators of the future and share their experiments and ideas with other schools.

“This is the second annual event. We used to have fairs as weeks within the school for each of the five science subjects. We don’t have enough time in school hours to do these practicals sometimes. By doing this, we are doing like phantom preparation and the students prepare all these experiments.

Practically, they see what they do in class and so when they do it, they become happy and want to invent more when they see what they can do with their hands.”

The fair was attended by the permanent secretary and directors in the ministry of science and technology, who inspected the

projects displayed by the students and were impressed with what they saw. It also had in attendance about 2,000 viewers including teachers and students from over 30 schools within the FCT and neighbouring states many of whom were amazed by the projects on display.

One of the students, Damilola Phillips while speaking on his project said he worked on the distillation of lemon and orange pills to form limonene.

“Limonene is an organic compound with medicinal and cosmetic properties and can be used as an insecticide. It is gotten from direct steam distillation with a liquid of higher boiling point. Its boiling point is about 96oC and the boiling point of the liquid used is 100oC which is water. The oil in the lemon is boiled and the steam passes through the pipe to the condenser into the conical flask where it is collected in liquid form.”

The duo of Marian Onyekachi and Aisha Lafiyami both in senior secondary one (SS1) worked on mathematics projects. Explaining her project, Onyekachi said she worked on the golden ratio. “This ratio was the ratio God used to create almost everything in the world. This ratio can be defined as length divided into two parts, the bigger part and the smaller part.

“The bigger part is divided by the smaller part and you get 1.618033. The golden ratio compass is an instrument used to calculate the golden ratio and the formula to find the actual golden ratio is = = 1.618033.”

Lafiyami, who worked on Fibonacci numbers said, “these numbers were created by an Italian mathematician, Leo Fibonacci.

These numbers are a sequence in recurrence relation and the formula to get the Fibonacci sequence is Fn=Fn-1 + Fn-2.”

Apart from the 90 sophisticated projects exhibited, the atmosphere was lit up with music and several cuisines made available to the delight of people present at the fair.

The spectacle was not complete without the raffle draw organised for the participants, where lucky winners received various prizes.

A teacher from Government Secondary School, Pyakasa, Abuja, Sir Jay, said he would love his school to organise a science fair someday. “The whole place is colourful, the organisation is okay and the communication is okay. The event was educative. I saw

one gas and electric propelled oven and I think they really tried on it.”

In the computer competition (Infotech), the students competed in five categories: computer arts, computer design, short movie and Lego robotics which is subdivided into Lego Line Follower and Lego Sumo.

According to the Head, Department of Computer, NTIC Abuja, Erkon Yildirim, there were 35 projects on display. “The students who come first, second and third in each category would be awarded certificates.” The categories were given titles. The computer arts which involved 3D modelling was titled ‘Fantastic World’; the computer design which involved poster design was titled ‘Dialogue among Cultures, People and Religions’; while the short movie was given the title ‘Helping Us’.

“The Lego robotics is the common general purpose robot; the students can easily build the robots by bringing the pieces together by programming it and then see how it works. The Lego sumo on the other hand is one of the traditional wrestling in Japan. We are organising this one in collaboration with the ministry of science and technology and this is the fourth time between NTIC schools.

Next year we are trying to expand the competition to other schools in Abuja.”

One of the students from NTIC Yobe, Ismail Mohammed SS2, worked on the Lego robotics which had a touch sensor, sound sensor, colour sensor and light sensor.

The sensors worked respectively based on how they were programmed to respond.

Another student whose project was based on computer design and titled: ‘Dialogue among Cultures, People and Religions’, used Photoshop to create a world map with faces of people.

An SS2 student of NTIC, Abuja, Talha Kayra Ondin, said: “Racism is not necessary.

For instance, I used the pictures of white people where Nigeria is located on the world map.” He also wrote a message, “respect other people’s religions, traditions then you will live in peace.”

With the quality of projects exhibited at the NTIC’s science and art fair 2016, it is obvious that Nigeria possesses promising young innovators that can move the country forward if their potential are properly harnessed.

As the world mourns the boxing legend, Mohammed Ali, it is important to take a simple look at Parkinson’s disease, a condition Ali suffered from for many years.

In Parkinson’s, a section of the brain becomes progressively damaged as certain nerve cells, that make dopamine, progressively break down. Dopamine is a special substance that sends signals to parts of your brain that controls movement.

These signals or messages are transmitted to your muscles to “command” them to smoothly perform the movements you want them to do.

In simple terms, the individual suffering from Parkinson’s disease does not have enough dopamine to enable him perform his movements. Parkinson’s disease affects all muscles throughout the body. This is why gradually, speech, swallowing, feacal and urinary eliminations, sight, smell, secretions like saliva, sexual activity, and mental and psychological processes are affected.

Although Parkinson’s disease is more likely to occur to 50 or 60-year-olds, this condition could be experienced by much younger persons. Parkinson’s disease usually takes time (years) to fully develop and is progressive. Symptoms experienced develop gradually and are mild initially. People experience these symptoms differently, in terms of what they first feel, or what is first noticed, as well as how severely experienced the symptoms are. The progressive deficiency in the neurotransmitter- dopamine- means problems with movement, balance and the efficiency of the entire body muscles. The first tell-tale sign of Parkinson’s disease is tremor.

This becomes noticeable at one side of the body and first affects one hand, arm or leg. Typically this uncontrollable shaking shows up when the limb is at rest.

Secondly, movement becomes slower. The sufferer finds he/she can only take slow dragging walk, punctuated with lots of steps. They achieve all erstwhile physical movements more slowly, haphazardly and laboriously.

Thirdly, muscle stiffness and inflexibility make all movement all the more difficult. Tension and cramps in the muscles cause the sufferer pain and frustrations.

These three major symptoms impact on a wide range of other natural body functions, causing the sufferer major physical, psychological and mental problems. I join the world to wish Mohammed Ali -Rest in Peace.

Omoru writes from the UK

Stella Maris School Set to Open More Branches With four existing schools spread across Abuja, Stella Maris School is set to increase the number of its institutions in the Federal Capital Territory, even as it engages the National Universities Commission (NUC) on the process of obtaining a license to operate a university.

The intention to build more schools and launch a university was disclosed by the schools’ Managing Director, Mr. Emeka Anyaene, during the recent week-long activities marking the institution’s 20th anniversary.

“We intend to build two more schools before the end of the year,” he said while speaking at the anniversary gala night.

The decision comes on the heels of the addition of a nursery and primary school which was opened in Life Camp last year to make it easy for parents living within Jabi, Life Camp and Karmo areas to gain access to a better learning environment for their children without transportation difficulties.

When opened, the two new schools will increase the student population of Stella Maris from its current 2,000 students.

While highlighting the contributions of the school to the education sector, Anyaene disclosed that the management of the school has decided to establish a university in future.

Also speaking at the ceremony, the Chairman, Board of Directors, Mrs. Afoma Onyeanusi, revealed that plans are underway to institute a board of governors.

“This is to support the school management team and staff in providing outstanding education for the children while assisting in assessing the school’s key performance targets.”

She said the board would also aim at raising expectations of what could be achieved by the children and also strengthen the involvement of parents in their children’s learning process.

The week-long celebration featured various activities including sporting events and cultural display. The cultural activity was an avenue for the institution to encourage parents to teach their children their culture.

Speaking during a language game on the cultural day, the Academic Adviser, Stella Maris Nursery and Primary School, Mr. James Arllo, bemoaned the shocking reality that many students cannot speak their native tongues, while subtly blaming parents for the flaw.

He advised parents to ensure that they communicate more with their children in their native tongues, as well as educate them on the various elements of their culture.

T H I S D AY • WEDNESDAY,JUNE 8, 2016

38

EDUCATION

First Female AIFCE Provost: My Best Moment is Anchoring College’s 50th Anniversary When Dr. Blessing Ijioma joined the Alvan Ikoku Federal College of Education (AIFCE) in 1989, little did she know that one day she would rise to become the first female provost of the institution. She recounted her experiences and the journey to re-position the institution to Amby Uneze Having worked as the provost of this institution for about six years, what were your initial experiences like?

I have been in Alvan Ikoku Federal College of Education since 1989; it was a state institution when I joined. Just as it has made waves all over the world because of its activities in the education sector, we keyed in and I started with others but things were not going as it ought to because of funding. The major problem then say in the 90s, was poor funding. However, the teachers put in their best to make sure it produced high calibre manpower. But in 2007, the federal government came in and took over the institution, it was actually a rescue mission and since then funding improved and through the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) we were assisted by the federal government.

Due to this, many buildings were put in place while others are ongoing and the laboratories have been equipped as well as sanitising the environment. Our cross-over to the federal government has helped us in manpower development as some of our staff have gone abroad for training and seminars and workshops. Locally we have over 200 people undergoing PhD programmes and about 130 are pursuing their master’s degree.

It has been a wonderful experience having the federal government take over the institution.

Salaries are regular unlike what used to be the experience in the past. We are happy that it is now at par with institutions like Adeyemi Federal College of Education, Oyo State; Federal College of Education, Zaira; and Federal College of Education, Kano.

Those were our contemporaries. So joining the federal government has really assisted us and that has brought us to where we are now.

Since the takeover of the institution by the federal government, has there been any issue between the state and the federal government regarding assets and liabilities or other things like that?

Initially there was sort of reluctance on the part of the state government to hand over all the assets belonging to the college, but when the current Governor, Rochas Okorocha came on board, he promised us that all that belong to the college still remained its property.

These were the promises he made to the late Uche Chukwumereije when he led the Senate Committee on Education on oversight function to pay him a courtesy call at the Government House, Owerri. So since then many people had made incursions but the governor has helped us on our land across Nweorie River, Amakohia and Shell Camp.

The college is noted for producing notable teachers that are teaching in many institutions across the country and abroad, will it be your desire to see the institution upgraded to a university?

It is our collective desire to see the institution elevated to a university status. That is our vision. The federal government said it was put on hold, it was not cancelled. We are still hopeful that sometime someday the institution will achieve that elevation as an autonomous degree-awarding institution. You know we have been awarding degrees in education in affiliation with the University of Nigeria, Nsukka for the past 36 years, one of the oldest in the country and we believe that beyond all reasonable doubts that we are matured to be on our own. And that was what the federal government tried to capture at the time we were upgraded, but we know that we are still upgraded in quote when the federal government is ready they will un-tie us.

In the past the institution looked like a gloried secondary school, but today

as the provost of this institution and it lasted for about two hours. It was because they did not have water and when we noticed that they were agitated because as I told you, the students-security had already told us what may happen for lack of water, and that made us to take proactive measure and even before they reacted we had provided water for them. We had an agreement with the students on the supply of power, and that is every night if there is no public power supply from EEDC, we supply them light from 7pm till 10pm and switch on by 6am to 7am for one hour. It is quite expensive to run these heavy generating sets, so the agreement is there and we have been able to keep our side of the agreement and that has helped us a lot. And of course once there is light, those responsible can pump water for them from the boreholes to the overhead tanks.

Ijioma

coming into the campus, one will notice many high-rising buildings some completed and some are yet to be completed, the area is quite expanded, how did it happen?

As I said earlier, the federal government take-over improved the funding of the institution.

But then I am the provost of Alvan Ikoku Federal College of Education extraction, I came from within, I knew the problems of the institution and I knew my colleagues and with them and the management we are collectively determined to ensure that whatever money that comes in is transmitted into something that people will see. So we already know where to channel the money that comes so that it will improve the academic excellence of the institution and that people will see and believe that indeed the hand of the federal government is in this institution.

What you have seen is the determination by a group of committed academics who transform the environment. We have travelled far and wide and seen what it looks like in other institutions abroad and within the country, so we didn’t want to be left behind. We still maintain our position as the ‘primus interpres’ (first among equals) among the colleges therefore we cannot maintain that unless we touch our environment.

Has TETFund being of any assistance to the institution in its quest to develop the environment for learning?

TETFund has helped us so much in the building of infrastructure in the institution.

Actually during the last administration, a group of federal officers, including the minister of state for education came to the institution, the executive secretary of the National Universities Commission (NUC) and that of the TETFund were all here and they commended the college for having effectively utilised the TETFund allocation to the college within the period.

Right now we are almost completing the 2014 evaluation and we have started the 2015, so we don’t allow our TETFund allocation to accumulate. We utilise it and we engage dependable contractors considering the quality of work being done.

In the area of accreditation, how far have you gone to have the institution’s programmes accredited by relevant supervising bodies?

We run 56 programmes and 24 of them are at the Bachelor of Education level in af-

filiation with UNN. In 2014 the NUC came on accreditation exercise and out of the 24 programmes, 18 had full accreditation and six had interim accreditation, so these are the six programmes NUC revisited last month and I am sure that we will make it. When the result of that accreditation is released we would have had all our programmes fully accredited. But at the NCE level, because the college had the mandate to produced NCE teachers for the basic education system, we have about 28 programmes and we are awaiting the accreditation team to come from the National Commission for Colleges of Education (NCCE).

We have applied and we are waiting for them.

What is the relationship between the management, staff and students of the institution?

It has been cordial except for the incident that happened when staff were unhappy because of the suspension of the university status, but after they understood what happened the relationship improved strongly. We see ourselves as a unit forging ahead for a common goal.

It is a norm with students to engage in indiscipline and cultism, to what extent do these exist in the institution?

Actually, cultism hasn’t been so much a problem because we have about 75 per cent female students. It is more pronounced in male-populated environment, so we have not had so much problems. However, we have what we call student-security on campus and these young men and women are members and they are doing a lot of work in that aspect.

You know they know themselves better than security operatives know so they are the ones that detect such anomalies. In fact they report and assist the management and the security unit to tackle this. They live among the students, so they inform us when anything is about happening so that we can take proactive measures to stop anything that might undermine the peace of the environment. We are also very grateful to the police, DSS and sometimes the army, they have been very supportive, because, whenever we call on them they are here to help us.

How do you handle students’ unrests arising from lack of water, power supply, among others?

It has happened only once in my six years

In the past six years, has there been any issue or challenge that made you regret your position?

Not at all because my coming to the seat was divine; I did not get here through politicking.

I was given a mandate and God said to me that He will supply the means for which it would be done and it has remained that way.

Personally, I am very grateful to God and to the federal government for supplying me the means to do the job because that is one of the reasons that can cause trouble. I have worked in this institution when we could not get salaries for five months and that led to agitation. Naturally, when people could not feed, but at this time our salaries are regular so we can now plan to take care of the family the much we can. That is the only thing that would have made me uncomfortable, but thank God we have not had such experience under my tenure.

What is your best moment as the provost of this institution?

My best moment was during the 50th anniversary of the college. I am the first female provost of the college for 50 years and I was the one that anchored the golden jubilee celebration.

For me it gives me joy because I know that in the next 50 years making it a centenary, I will be remembered. I will not be here then but that would be a good memorial.

Who is Dr. Blessing Ijioma?

I had my secondary education at Queens College, Yaba, Lagos and finished at Queens College Enugu. In 1972, I gained admission to UNN where I had my first degree in Microbiology. I took up a job at the National Roots Crop Research Institution (NRCRI), Umudike and then transferred to Michael Okpara College of Agriculture then, now Imo Polytechnic, Umuagwo, Ohaji. I went back and did a master’s degree, also in Microbiology.

In 1989, due to Imo State policy, I was transferred to Alvan Ikoku College of Education. I had a PhD at the Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO). That was how I came over to this great institution. I have been a head of department twice, dean School of Natural Sciences, I have been the first female deputy provost, and now the first female provost of the college. I am also a member of the Nigerian Academy of Education; a fellow of the Nigerian Food Science and Technology; and a fellow of the Nigerian Institute of Environmental Technology.

What is your message to the Alvan community?

My message to the community is that we should through hard work for the nation, recapture our status as first among equals among colleges of education and pursue together our mission to arrive as a university or autonomous degree-awarding institution, as God will direct.

39

T H I S D AY • WEDNESDAY,JUNE 8, 2016

PERSPECTIVE

Staff, Students of Jos Medical Lab School Condemn Provost’s Third Term Bid May 28, 2016.

Seriki Adinoyi in Jos

The embattled provost of the Federal School of Medical Laboratory Technology, Jos, Plateau State, Dr. Sunday Etukudoh, who was recently released on bail in Jos where he had been on detention over alleged financial crime, is currently under fire from the staff and students of the school over his attempt to return for a third tenure as provost.

The staff and students, who protested in Jos against Etukudoh’s plan, said the Federal Government of Nigeria Official Gazette No. 89 dated October 11, 2012 Vol. 89 is clear on the tenure of provost of the school. They stressed that no individual is allowed more than two tenures of four years each.

“Aside the fact that Etukudoh is facing financial crime allegations in court; he has completed two tenures of four years each as the provost of the college and is therefore not qualified for another term.”

The provost had allegedly threatened some of his staff that dared to challenge his intention for a third tenure; most of these staff are also key witnesses in the ongoing court case against him.

Also petitioning the Minister of Health on the matter, a Civil Society Organisation, League for Human Rights said: “We write on behalf of some senior staff of the Federal School of Medical Laboratory, Jos who have been on the receiving end of the activity of the provost, whose appointment took effect from May 27, 2008 for a four year tenure and which was renewed for a further four years in 2012 and ended on

“Even before his appointment he had acted for two years. It means he has been on the same seat for 10 years continually. This appointment was published in Federal Government of Nigeria Official Gazette No. 89 dated October 11, 2012 Vol. 89.”

The petition, signed by the Director of the CSO, Nankin Bagudu, accused Etukudoh of dividing the union into two factions; “he caused a faction to prepare a letter to be sent to you (minister) passing a vote of confidence on him. This we believe will allow him to continue in office for another four years. The letters are to be signed by a section of the management, a few students and a faction of the Association of Medical Laboratory Scientists of Nigeria, Federal School of Medical Laboratory Technology, Jos chapter.”

While urging the minister to take appropriate action on the matter, the petitioner said, “Etukudoh has resorted to open victimisation; this he did by setting up panel to try some lecturers, all against due process. He has resorted to the use of threats and intimidation and witch-hunting of staff perceived to be against him and who are not towing his path.

“He wants to stay at all cost to cover allegations of corruption and malpractices which is before a court of law prosecuted by the EFCC. Some acts of which include his tactics of employing staff and back dating it by two years and claiming their entitlements.”

Efforts to get Etukudoh to react failed as he was said to be in Abuja on official engagement.

‘Expose Youths to Structured Learning, Devt Paths’ Funmi Ogundare The Operations Partner, PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC), Mr. Pedro Omontuemhen, has called on government and educators to open up spaces to involve youth opinion and expand the relevance of a degree for youths to better support their learning experience, with more structured learning and development paths.

Omontuemhen, who made this known recently during the official launch of ‘Get Ready Set’ initiative in Lagos, said students and employers will need to be more proactive in engaging with decision makers to influence decisions and supporting initiatives to improve the situation.

“We have long held that to tackle youth unemployment effectively, we must reform our approach to education.

Universities need to reform

themselves into a place where young people can not only study and take exams, but learn from doing. Educational institutions must provide youths with real world experiences that are relevant, integrate practical skills with theoretical knowledge and foster an entrepreneurial learning environment.”

He said his organisation will support the initiative financially and train volunteers. “At PwC, we hold strongly that work experience or short term temporary roles can be valuable not only for skills development but to help young people plan their career while introducing them to the world of work.”

The Commissioner of Wealth Creation and Employment, Mr. Babatunde Durosinmi-Etti, described the initiative as a welcome development, saying that it is a redefinition of the

government’s role on sustainable youth employment that has reached a critical level.

He thanked the partners who have supported the initiative, saying, “there is no shortcut to success, it is hard work and trying to identify your capability and leveraging on opportunity to identifying skill sets.

“This administration has reinforced the federal government’s support when it comes to providing opportunity for the youths, it is important that it is part of the campaign promise and that was why the ministry is set to address this problem.”

He expressed concern that there is a big disconnect in skills education and that graduates do not have technical and professional skills that will make them employable, adding that what the youths should be able to take away is how they are able

to explore the opportunities in a competitive environment.

The Deputy Director, Higher Education, Mrs. Justina Adedokun, enjoined the youths to take the initiative seriously by using it to better their live. “Do what you are expected to do forge ahead in life.” The Special Adviser to the Governor on Education, Mr. Fela Bank-Olemoh expressed concern that there are not enough jobs being created to absorb the supply of labour and that graduates are rated poorly on employability scale, hence the need for initiative.

He said the programme would run for 13 weeks in three modules, adding, “it is going to be a life changing opportunity for students that get into the organisations. I believe that Nigerian students have the mindset to excel wherever they find themselves.”

FOR A SAFER SCHOOL

L-R: The Group Head, Marketing and Corporate Communications, Cornerstone Insurance, Cordelia Ekeocha, presenting a first aid kit to the VicePrincipal, Fountain Heights Secondary School, Surulere, Lagos, Mrs. Nneka Osisiogu, during the launch of the ‘Safe Routes to School’ and ‘Basic Life Support (BLS) and Basic First AidTraining’ at the school… recently

Abia, Akwa Ibom Win NNPC Quiz for South-east, South-south Lagos Reopens Ilupeju later this month.

Upgraded Public Library Charles Onyekamuo in Awka For the south-south zone, the and Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City

Abia and Akwa Ibom States have emerged winners of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) annual national quiz competition for states in the South-east and South-south zones of the country respectively.

Participating states in the south-east contest which held at St. John of God Secondary School, Awka, Anambra State were Anambra, Ebonyi, Abia, Imo and Enugu States, those for the south-south contest held at Imaguero College, Benin City were Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta, Edo and Rivers. The competition featured Biology, Chemistry, English Language, Mathematics and Physics.

Abia scored 55 points, Enugu followed closely with 40 points, Imo and Anambra were tied in the third place with 35 points each, while Ebonyi took the rear with 25 points. The winner will represent the zone in the national grand finale in Abuja

trio of Udoh Favour, Uwakmfon Joseph and Faith Brown from Airforce Comprehensive School, Uyo; Pegasus High School, Eket; and Government Secondary School, Afaha, Eket scored a total of 65 points to make it to the grand finale for the second time in a row.

Rivers came second with 55 points; Delta and Cross River came third and fourth with 50 and 45 points respectively; while Edo and Bayelsa scored 40 and 20 points respectively to settle for the fifth and sixth positions.

In his remarks, the Group General Manager, Corporate Social Responsibility Division of NNPC, Mr. Ohi Alegbe, who congratulated the winners, said the zonal round was a stepping stone towards the grand finale, adding that the corporation has continued to ensure that the competition is held annually as part of its commitment towards preparing the Nigerian child for the future.

Peace Obi

The Lagos State Government has as part of its commitment to deliver education and increase Lagosians’ access to knowledge, recently reopened the upgraded Ilupeju Public Library.

The upgrade, which was carried out under a public private partnership between the state and the Custodian and Allied Insurance, had the library transformed into normal and digital library.

According to the Special Adviser to the Governor on Education, Mr. Obafela BankOlemoh, the collaboration is one of such partnerships the state has opened up to the private sector that can assist it in delivering education to Lagosians.

Describing the upgraded library facility as a knowledge centre and a promise delivered, the aide said the state is committed to transforming library spaces in Lagos into conducive places for students and other

library users.

“Lagos State Government is partnering Custodian and Allied Insurance to deliver this upgraded knowledge centre.

It is something we are excited about. Our students now have access to over 83,000 books and millions of journals.”

While stating that the state is committed to sustaining the upgraded library, he said it is one of the many good things that would be happening in the state’s education sector. “We are committed to ensuring that whatever we do is sustainable.

Now what we have done is to set up a PPP. This centre will be maintained by the company over the next five years.”

Bank-Olemoh said the state has mapped out a three-way strategy to make knowledge accessible to Lagosians said, adding, “we are upgrading our state libraries, we are upgrading our ICT centres and libraries in our secondary schools and we are working on Lagos State digital libraries.

Whitesands School Launches Literary/Art Publication Funmi Ogundare Whitesands School, Lekki recently unveiled the second edition of ‘THE SAIL’, a literary/art publication of its students comprising fiction, poetry, essay and poems that have been adjudged the best by authors in the respective category.

Speaking at the presentation ceremony, the Vice-Principal, Senior School, Mr. Sebastian Eleike, said the publication is a compilation of winning entries and that the best in each category are given honorable mention in the book.

“It is a competition because the students have to make entries and we have to vet and pass on to external personnel to go through and they select the best among the entries in different categories including poetry, essays, art work and stories. The best ones constitute the publication. We send the various categories to people who are well versed in those areas, outside the school so they read through and two or three in each category are

given mention.”

He said the book is something that has been there from time, adding that the school is keen about all round formation of the education of students. “We are interested in the academics, sciences, arts, sports and the idea of getting students to think and be creative. The publication started two years ago, we have always had a year book and students have always contributed to the material and also served as members of the editorial board and in the past we have been producing brochures and in producing all of these things, we get the students to contribute in one way or the other.”

The Principal, Dr. Lorenzo David, said the move was to create an avenue for the students to show their creativity and to immortalise their works. “It is something that is very good, we have our sister school have been doing this for decades and last year, we came up with the first edition.

40

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 8, 2016 • T H I S D AY

CITYSTRINGS

Acting Features Editor: Charles Ajunwa Email charles.ajunwa@thisdaylive.com

Unease in College Campuses Communities of the University of Calabar and the Cross River University of Technology now live in fear following the take over of the campuses by criminals, Bassey Inyang writes

T

hese are not the best of times for members of the academic community in the University of Calabar (UNICAL), and the Cross River University of Technology (CRUTECH) as palpable fear of insecurity has enveloped the campuses of both tertiary institutions.

Though the schools had battled with considerable insecurity in the past, the phenomenon was largely limited to violence and killings among proliferated student’s cult groups in the institutions, and petty stealing.

In some instances even lecturers were physically attacked and killed by members of the cult groups, who on many occasions never discriminated in course of unleashing violence on campus.

In recent times, however, not much of insecurity traceable to violent clashes and attacks perpetrated by the armed confraternities on campus have been heard or reported.

But, the wave of insecurity on the campuses of these institutions seem to have assumed a wider dimension, and taken new forms as crimes such as armed robbery, kidnapping, rape, assassination, smuggling and other vices have become prevalent in recent times.

Many persons have concluded that these crimes reflect the state of insecurity in Calabar metropolis and its environs, of which the universities are part of.

For instance, in August 27, 2011, the UNICAL was shut by its authorities for two weeks following violent protest staged by its students over the killing of three of their colleagues on campus; one final year student was felled by cultists and two others killed by armed robbers.

Then the institution’s authorities under the headship of Professor James Epoke, who was Vice Chancellor promised that the security situation on the campus will be restructured and improved on for the safety of lives and property of the entire university community.

Despite Epoke’s promise, not much appear to have changed as incidents of armed robberies, kidnappings and rape are on the increase, even after he was succeeded about six months ago by the current Vice Chancellor of the institution, Professor Zana Akpagu.

The situation, at the moment, has obviously created, in the psyche of students, non-teaching staff, lecturers and members of their families, a feeling of complete fear and insecurity on campus.

Some of the students have even relocated from the university campus to Calabar town which isn’t safer due to the vicious crimes meted regularly on its inhabitants by the men of the underworld, whom many believe

The wave of insecurity on the campuses of these institutions seem to have assumed a wider dimension, and taken new forms as crimes such as armed robbery, kidnapping, rape, assassination, smuggling and other vices have become prevalent in recent times

Protesting CRUTECH students

CRUTECH protest, a student carrying placard

operate as a well coordinated ring.

In March, gunmen suspected to be robbers had invaded the UNICAL staff quarters, where they ransacked lecturers’ residences and robbed them of valuable property valued at millions of naira.

The state of insecurity in institution seem to have climaxed in the early hours of May 2, this year, when gunmen stormed

the UNICAL staff quarters and abducted the wife of a lecturer, Mrs. Nancy Ndifon, and her daughter, Oyebah, a student of the university; and a medical doctor who is the son of a deputy registrar in the university, Dr. David Ekpenyong Iniama.

Worried by the new trend of insecurity in the institution, members of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), UNICAL Zone, on May 3, downed their chalks and

embarked on one week strike.

Explaining the reason for the action, the university lecturers said they were concerned over the worsening security situation in the university following the kidnap of the three residents in the staff quarters by gunmen.

In the statement jointly signed by the Zonal Coordinator, Professor Nsing Ogar; Dr. Tony Eyang, Chairman, UNICAL; Dr. Emmanuel Etta, Chairman, CRUTECH; Dr.

41

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 8, 2016 • T H I S D AY

CITYSTRINGS

UNICAL Vice Chancellor, Prof. Zana Akpagu

Aniekan Brown, Chairman, University of Uyo, (UNIUYO); Dr. Ime Okop,Chairman, Akwa Ibom State University, (AKSU); Arch. Ochi Ejimofor, Chairman, Abia State University, (ABSU) and Prof. Ndubuisi Idenyi, Chairman, Eboyin State University (EBSU), the union noted that “the ugly situation in the university has generated an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty with a devastating impact on teaching and learning.

“These kidnappings in UNICAL remind us of not only the increasingly alarming insecurity across the country but also the danger that academics are exposed to.

“The pain and sadness amongst the families ever since this regrettable development have been deep and the impact on the university devastating.”

They blamed the high rate of crime in UNICAL on what they termed “porous security,” stating that “the confidence of members of the academic community can only be restored by adequate security presence in strategic places and effective intelligence gathering in the university and its environs.

“We, therefore, call on the University of Calabar, the Cross River State Government and security agencies to do all within their powers and secure the urgent release of our beloved ones. This is the surest way to restoring an atmosphere for meaningful academic activities in the university.”

The situation in the neighbouring CRUTECH is not different as men of the underworld have also extended their activities to the campus and in the process have instilled fear in the entire university community.

Both institutions aside from sharing a common boundary, are bounded to the south by the long stretch of the Qua River, through which the kidnappers and armed robbers stormed the institution at will, kidnap their booty, and escaped in their speed boats through the same routed into the dipper waters of Akpabuyo and Bakassi axis of the state.

Due to the unfenced boundaries that link the eastern flank of CRUTECH directly with the creeks of the Calabar River, all manner of criminal activities occur daily at the school’s residential quarters and students hostels, especially those of the female.

On Thursday, May 26th, students of the state owned University of Technology massively

CRUTECH Vice Chancellor, Prof. Anthony Owan-Enoh

was to start the next day.

Demanding that adequate security be provided for the university community, the SUG President said: “It hurts me the most as students are not in the right frame of mind to partake in the examination. The issue is getting out of hand and the Government needs to intervene.”

Days before the students staged their protest, workers of the university operating on the platform of Association of Residents of Staff Quarters, CRUTECH Calabar Campus, had staged a similar protest complaining of insecurity in the university.

The workers said that the insecurity on campus was stemmed mainly from encroachment on the university by land speculators due to non fencing of the campus, especially the area close to the Qua and Atimbo Rivers, which straddles a length of over five kilometres from the southern extremities extending to UNICAL. They said the land speculators have by their actions opened the campus bare for surveillance by criminals who latter attack the students and lecturers at night and rob them of their cash and other properties.

During the protest which took the staff to the Vice Chancellor's office, their chairman, Dr. Samuel Ntino said: “You are aware that for some time, the main campus became the subject of constant raids by robbers and hired assassins. Frustrated resident workers on the main campus took their fate in their hands by sourcing alternative security arrangements.”

Also speaking on the state of insecurity, We, therefore, call on the a lecturer, Mr. Ugoji Nwabueze, said: “The reason for this demonstration is to draw the University of Calabar, attention of the Management, Governing the Cross River State Council and State Government over the high Government and security rate of insecurity on the university campus.

“The entire CRUTECH land have been agencies to do all within sold and built upon. The implications are their powers and secure far reaching.”

Suffering from a common kind of security the urgent release of our threat, the chairmen of the branches of ASUU beloved ones. This is the in UNICAL and CRUTECH, Dr. Tony Eyang surest way to restoring an and Dr. Emmanuel Ettah, respectively, issued joint press statement in their attempt to atmosphere for meaningful adraw the attention of the authorities concerned academic activities in the to act and possibly put a stop to the raising crime rate on the campuses. university The statement read in part: “The kidnap-

protested the state of insecurity following a robbery incident which occurred early on that day on campus.

The students protest brought academic activities in the university to a standstill, as they insisted that the authorities and the state government must put a stop to the incessant armed robbery attacks on the community by unidentified gunmen.

Some of the protesting students said their action was triggered by the invasion of their school by armed robbers for three consecutive days.

They alleged that during their operation, the robbers attacked and disposed students of their laptops, tablets, phones and and other valuables and melted away into the early morning darkness. They said most of those items forcefully taken meant a lot to them.

They lamented that the armed robbers had a field-day robbing as they dispossessed students and lecturers of their valuables unimpeded.

The Students Union Government (SUG) President, Idege Omang Steven, who addressed the students and led them to the Vice Chancellor, Professor Anthony Owan Enoh, to lay their complaints lamented that it was even more disturbing that the armed men were invading the campus when students were preparing for their examination which

pings in UNICAL remind us of the increasingly alarming insecurity across the country and the danger that academics are exposed to. The kidnappings bring to the fore the porous security situation in the university, which members of staff have always drawn the attention of the university and security agencies.

“Time and again there have been cases of armed robbery attacks on the staff quarters.

The university security personnel are apparently ill-equipped to tackle the criminals.

“The ugly situation has generated an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty, with a devastating impact on teaching and learning. Normalcy in the university can only be restored by the immediate release of the abducted persons. The psychological trauma occasioned by the kidnappings cannot be adequately described.”

The authorities of the institutions have acknowledged the state of insecurity and have promised to address the situation which has struck fear into the community.

The Public Relations Officer (PRO) of UNICAL, Mr. Effiong Eyo, has given indication that the university was working tirelessly towards ensuring that complete peace returned to the campus.

“There is a strong security presence on campus. We have also increased the patrols in areas where we have the neighbouring community encroaching into our land. The university had sometime in the past written to the Federal Government to carry out perimeter fencing of the campus, but we are yet to receive any response,” Eyo stated.

The Vice Chancellor of CRUTECH while commenting on the security situation called on the state government to assist in providing security in the institution, but promised that on their part, the authorities of the university would on their part would do all they can to restore security to the campus, which he said part has been encroached on.

“The encroachment into the university land is very worrisome and I promise to persuade Governor Ben Ayade to come personally to see the damage being done to the university’s land.

“The issue is getting out of hand and the government needs to intervene,” the Vice Chancellor told the protesting members of the community.

42

WEDNESDAY JUNE 8, 2016 T H I S D AY

T H I S D AY WEDNESDAY JUNE 8, 2016

43

44

WEDNESDAY JUNE 8, 2016 • T H I S D AY

INTERNATIONAL

email:foreigndesk@thisdaylive.com

Clinton Captures Enough Delegates to Secure Democratic Nomination Hillary Clinton has captured enough delegates to secure the Democratic presidential nomination, according to tallies by two U.S. media outlets, as she and her rival, Bernie Sanders, faced off in contests in six states.

A former senator and U.S. secretary of state, Clinton would be the first woman to ever be the presidential candidate of a major political party in the country’s history. Sanders has vowed to keep up the fight in what has been a long and increasingly antagonistic Democratic primary race.

The U.S. senator fromVermont, who calls himself a democratic socialist, has commanded huge crowds spilling out of parks and stadiums, galvanizing younger voters with his promises to address economic inequality. But Clinton has continued to edge out Sanders, particularly among older voters with longer ties to the Democratic Party. Her less lofty promises focus on improving upon the policies of her fellow Democrat and former boss, President Barack Obama.

On Tuesday morning, Clinton secured the endorsement of House of Representatives Democratic leader Nancy Pelosi of California, who noted Clinton’s career devoted to children and working families. “In this campaign, we have seen her vision, her knowledge, her ability, indeed her stamina, to get the job done for the American people,”Pelosi said in a statement.

After the Associated Press and NBC reported on Monday night that Clinton had clinched the number of delegates needed to win her party’s nomination, a Sanders campaign spokesman castigated what he said was the media’s“rush to judgment.”Under Democratic National Committee

rules, most delegates to the party’s polls in California until recently, Hispanic and African-American Latino city of Lynwood, then increasingly resistant to Clinton July 25-28 convention are awarded roars back to take the state, he voters - demographic groups later in central Los Angeles, in recent months, with fewer by popular votes in state-by-state may have little incentive to that have provided a pillar of speaking before throngs of than half saying they would vote elections. exit the race despite increasing support for her during the black supporters. Sanders, for her i f s h e b e c o m e s But the delegate count also pressure from party luminaries nominating process. meanwhile, campaigned in t h e p a r t y ’s n o m i n e e , includes“superdelegates”- party to stand down. Clinton spent She spent the day in Southern the San Francisco Bay Area. according to a Reuters/ leaders and elected senators, Monday working to turn out California, first in the heavily Sanders’supporters have become I p s o s p o l l i n M ay. members of Congress and governors - who can change their mind at any time. For that reason, the DNC has echoed the Sanders campaign, saying the superdelegates should not be counted until they actually vote at the Philadelphia convention.

But that has not deterred the news media. The AP and NBC reported that Clinton reached the 2,383 delegates needed to become the presumptive Democratic nominee with a decisive weekend victory in Puerto Rico, a U.S. territory, and a burst of last-minute support from superdelegates.

“According to the news, we are on the brink of a historic, historic, unprecedented moment,” Clinton told a rally in Long Beach, California, shortly after the AP report. “But we still have work to do, don’t we? We have six elections tomorrow and we’re going to fight hard for every single vote, especially right here in California.”

Michael Briggs, Sanders’ spokesman, dismissed the AP and NBC tallies.

“Our job from now until the convention is to convince those superdelegates that Bernie is by far the strongest candidate against Donald Trump,”he said. Democratic presidential candidate, Hillary Clinton, speaks at a campaign rally in Lynwood, Los Angeles, California…yesterday California, New Jersey, Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota and New Mexico hold nominating contests on Tuesday. The outcome in California, the last and largest state to vote, could affect Clinton’s efforts to unify the party behind her.

If Sanders, who was trailing in Syrian government troops backed captured more territory from the controls swathes of land up to and Syria two years ago.

The Syrian army’s advance

by Russian air power moved to group near the city of Manbij in the Iraqi border.

They are taking place at the into Raqqa province, which has within 25 km (15 miles) of an Aleppo province, a spokesman same time as an assault by the Iraqi not been announced by the Islamic State-held town in Raqqa for the forces told Reuters.

The Observatory said they army against Falluja, an Islamic military, is initially targeting the province yesterday, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights were now 2 km from the Islamic State bastion close to Baghdad. Islamic State-held town of Tabqa, The simultaneous assaults by according to the Observatory and said, as state media reported air State-held city. seven police officers and four The offensives both got a myriad of enemies on farflung pro-Damascus media sources. strikes against the jihadists in civilians and that the attack had underway last week and are fronts amount to some of the Raqqa province is a major base the area. targeted vehicles carrying members In a separate simultaneous targeting Islamic State in areas greatest pressure Islamic State has of operations for Islamic State of a riot police unit. Three of the 36 campaign against Islamic State of major strategic importance faced since declaring its caliphate and home to its de facto capital, wounded were in critical condition, in Syria, U.S.-backed militias to its foothold in Syria, where it to rule over all Muslims from Iraq Raqqa city.

COASTING TO VICTORY

Syrian Army, US-backed Forces Advance Separately against IS Militants

Car Bomb Targeting Police Kills 11, Wounds 36 in Istanbul A car bomb ripped through a police bus in central Istanbul during the morning rush hour of yesterday, killing 11 people and wounding 36 near the main tourist district, a major university and the mayor’s office.

The car was detonated as police buses passed, Istanbul Governor Vasip Sahin told reporters, in the fourth major bombing in Turkey’s biggest city this year. There was no immediate claim of responsibility but Kurdish militants have staged similar attacks on the security forces before, including one last month in Istanbul.

Security concerns were already hitting tourism and investor confidence. Wars in neighboring Syria and Iraq have fostered a home-grown Islamic State network blamed for a series of suicide bombings, while militants from the largely Kurdish southeast have increasingly struck in cities further afield.

President Tayyip Erdogan vowed the NATO member’s fight against terrorism would go on, describing the attack on officers whose jobs were to protect others as“unforgivable”.

“We will continue our fight against these terrorists until the end, tirelessly and fearlessly,”he told reporters after visiting some of the injured in a hospital near the blast site.

Sahin said the dead included

he said.

The blast hit theVezneciler district, between the headquarters of the local municipality and the campus of Istanbul University, not far from the city’s historic heart. It shattered windows in shops and a mosque and scattered debris over nearby streets.

“There was a loud bang, we thought it was lightning but right at that second the windows of the shop came down. It was extremely scary,” said Cevher, a shopkeeper who declined to give his surname.

The blast was strong enough to topple all the goods from the shelves of his store.

The police bus that appeared to have borne the brunt of the explosion was tipped onto its roof on the side of the road. A second police bus was also damaged.

The charred wreckage of several other vehicles lined the street. Several witness reported hearing gunshots, although there was confusion as to whether attackers had opened fire or whether police officers had been trying to protect colleagues.

China Tells US to Play Constructive Role in South China Sea Dispute China told the United States yesterday that it should play a constructive role in safeguarding peace in the disputed South China Sea, as U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry called for talks and a peaceful resolution.

China claims most of the South China Sea, through which $5 trillion in ship-borne trade passes every year.

The Philippines,Vietnam, Malaysia, Taiwan and Brunei have overlapping claims, as well as close military ties with the United States.

China has been angered by what it views as provocative U.S. military patrols close to islands China controls in the South China Sea. The United States says the patrols are to protect freedom of navigation.

Speaking at the end of highlevel Sino-U.S. talks in Beijing, State Councillor Yang Jiechi, China’s top diplomat who outranks the foreign minister, said China had the right

to safeguard its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights.

“China respects and protects the right that all countries enjoy under international law to freedom of navigation and overflight,”Yang told reporters.Disputes should be resolved by the parties involved through consultation, he said.

Manila advised against talks with China over disputed waters “China hopes the U.S. will scrupulously abide by its promise to not take sides in relevant territorial disputes and play a constructive role in safeguarding peace and stability in the South China Sea,”Yang said.

U.S. Defense Secretary Ash Carter said on Saturday the U.S. approach to the Asia-Pacific remained“one of commitment, strength and inclusion”, but he also warned China against provocative behaviour in the South China Sea. Kerry said the United

States did not take a position on the sovereignty of any land features in the South China Sea but thought all claimants should exercise restraint.

“We reiterated America’s fundamental support for negotiations and a peaceful resolution based on the rule of law as well as our concern about any unilateral steps by any party ... to alter the status quo,”Kerry said.

Kerry added that he and Yang reaffirmed their governments’commitment to upholding the freedom of navigation and overflight.The Philippines is hoping for a favourable ruling from a tribunal in The Hague this month after it went to court in 2013 seeking clarification on its economic entitlements in the South China Sea. China has said it will not respect the court’s decision and there are fears in Manila that China may retaliate by declaring an air defence

identification zone in the disputed waters or by reclaiming disputed Scarborough Shoal.

Gregory Poling, director of Asia Maritime Transparency Initiative at the U.S. Center for Strategic and International Studies, said China would not risk an escalation if it knew the United States would try to deter its actions on Scarborough Shoal.

“What we’ve seen over and over in the last years, China is unwilling to risk activities that threaten deadly force,” Poling told diplomats and military officials at the main army base in Manila.

“It is possible to deter them. We’ll have to keep deterring them over and over.That is the test for next 10 to 15 years in this game of whack-a-mole until the Chinese decide that this is not the way to do international relations.”

45

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 8, 2016 • T H I S D AY

INTERNATIONAL

Scandal in new Brazil’s Govt offer Rousseff Hope of Survival A wave of scandals buffeting Brazil’s interim government is weakening the resolve of some senators to oust suspended President Dilma Rousseff, offering the leftist leader hope of surviving an impeachment trial in the upper house.

Soccer-star-turnedSenator Romario shocked the government last week when he announced he was no longer certain to vote in favor of removing Rousseff. Brazil’s first female leader was placed on trial by the Senate last month on charges of breaking budget rules.

His announcement followed a flurry of gaffes, policy missteps and scandals that have rocked the three-week-old administration, including the resignation of two ministers after leaked recordings suggested they tried to block a massive anti-graft investigation at state oil company Petrobras before taking office.

The recordings, taped secretly by a defendant in the Petrobras probe who made a plea bargain deal with prosecutors, appeared to support Rousseff ’s claim that her impeachment was an opposition conspiracy to seize power and avoid prosecution.

A prosecutor ’s request on Tuesday for the arrest of four senior members of Temer ’s PMDB party for allegedly obstructing the investigation - including the Senate speaker and a former Brazilian president - could sway senators who are reconsidering whether to convict Rousseff and permanently dismiss her.

According to surveys

by Brazilian media, up to a dozen of the 55 senators who voted last month to put Rousseff on trial are now undecided.

If just a couple of those change sides, the Temer camp would lose the 54 votes it needs - two-thirds of the 81seat Senate - to convict Rousseff. She would then be able to serve out her term until 2018, though many in Brasilia think she would be too weak to govern and would have to call early elections.

A Rousseff comeback would likely sink Brazilian financial markets, after they rallied strongly at the start of this year on the prospects of her ouster. It could also leave Latin America’s largest country in a prolonged state of political deadlock.

“It’s going to be very close. I have not decided,” Senator Cristovam Buarque told Reuters. “There are six or seven senators who are undecided and could go either way.”

Like Romario, who quit his seat on the impeachment commission on June 1, criticizing the appointment of ministers facing investigation in the Petrobras scandal, Buarque says Temer ’s bad cabinet choices have made some senators think twice.

“The impeachment has become an election between Rousseff and Temer, who will also be judged on his record in government,” Buarque said. “The presidency will be decided by two or three votes.”

The Temer camp failed in an attempt on Monday to bring forward the verdict in the trial to late July from mid-August, as it sought to reduce the time for senators to change their minds.

The government had hoped that Temer would be able to open the Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro on Aug. 5 without lingering doubts about his legitimacy. Instead, the trial could now run until Aug. 16, the middle of the Games. Temer ’s supporters hope new allegations of corruption against Rousseff will secure the vote of wavering senators. Weekly news magazine IstoÉ reported on Friday that Rousseff solicited 12 million reais ($3.41 million) for her 2014 re-election campaign from Marcelo Odebrecht, the former head of Odebrecht, Latin America’s largest construction company.

The report cited a plea bargain Odebrecht is negotiating to reduce a 19-year prison sentence for bribery and money laundering.

Rousseff strongly denied the report, the first to directly

link her to corruption at Petrobras.

Temer ’s spokesman, Marcio de Freitas, said the government had gained the support of three more senators and predicted 58 would vote to dismiss Rousseff. “We are very calm,” he said.

However, some leaders of Temer ’s Brazilian Democratic Movement Party (PMDB) expressed concern about the close margin.

“I think we will win

by 3 to 5 votes. That is very tight,” Senator Valdir Raupp, a member of the PMDB executive, told Reuters. He said the economy, mired in its worst recession since the 1930s, must show signs of recovery to guarantee other wavering senators do not back Rousseff.

With 11 million unemployed and inflation running at just over 9 percent, Temer is under pressure from Brazilians to deliver. The economy

has contracted more than 7 percent in two years.

Temer ’s businessfriendly economic team led by Finance Minister Henrique Meirelles is tasked with plugging a record deficit. The team was weakened by the resignation of a key figure in passing reforms, former Planning Minister Romero Juca.

Juca departed after the release of one recording in which he suggested a change of government

RUNNING FROM HOME

Civilians who fled their homes due to clashes gather at Camp Tariq, south of Falluja, Iraq…yesterday

Top Indian Hospital Duped into Removing Kidneys for Organ Traffickers A prestigious Indian hospital said on Monday it was duped by traffickers into removing the kidneys of victims believing they were relatives of needy patients, after five people were arrested for the crime.

Police on Thursday busted an illegal organ harvesting racket operating out of the Indraprastha Apollo Hospital, one of city’s top private hospitals. They have since arrested five people, including two assistants of a senior hospital doctor.

The traffickers allegedly lured poor people into selling their kidneys for 300,000 rupees ($4,480) and then re-selling the organs on the black market at huge profit.

Fake identification documents were

used to fool the hospital that the victims were relatives of recipients, which is permitted under Indian law.

Indraprastha Apollo Hospital admitted it had unwittingly removed organs from victims and said it was co-operating with police in their investigation of the alleged kidney sale racket.

“While all due precautions were conducted, the use of fake and forged documents was used for this racket with a criminal intent,”said a statement from the hospital sent to the Thomson Reuters Foundation.

“The hospital has been a victim of a well-orchestrated operation to cheat patients and the hospital. We urge the police to take the strictest of action against all those involved.”

Two of the five arrested suspects were personal assistants to a senior nephrologist employed at the hospital, but were not on the hospital’s payroll, the statement said. A chronic shortage of organs available for transplant fuels a booming black-market trade in body parts in India.

Commercial trade in organs is illegal in India and transplant donations must be approved by a special transplant committee at each hospital. The First Information Report, or FIR, registered by police said victims were lured from all over India - including the eastern states of West Bengal and the southern state of Tamil Nadu - to come to Delhi and

Russia Delays Launch into Space Station The flight of the next crew to the International Space Station has been postponed until July 7 from June 24 in order to ensure the safety of the first launch of their new “Soyuz-MS”spaceship, Russian space agency Roscosmos said on Monday.

A series of additional tests of the spaceship’s software is required, Roscosmos said,

citing the decision of a state commission which met earlier on Monday.

Russian Commander Anatoly Ivanishin, NASA astronaut Kate Rubins and Japan’s Takuya Onishi are due to take off from Russia’s Baikonur cosmodrome in Kazakhstan to travel to the International Space Station (ISS) aboard the “Soyuz-MS”.

Roscosmos said the new

would help defendants in the Petrobras case avoid prosecution.

The cabinet crisis deflated market optimism that Rousseff ’s removal would put Brazil on a path to fiscal solvency.

“The market is behaving like there is still a risk of Rousseff returning,” said Senator Eunicio Oliveira, PMDB leader in the upper chamber.

“The quicker this is settled the better for the government.”

spaceship had better control and navigation systems, a better power supply and a larger area of solar batteries than its predecessors.

Citing sources in Russia’s space industry, local media outlets reported last week that the flight to the ISS might be postponed due to faults in its docking system.

A Roscosmos official de-

clined to comment on Monday, pointing to the terse official statement. Russia, then part of the Soviet Union, pioneered space exploration with the launch of the first satellite in 1957 and the first man into space in 1961.

But after the 1991 break-up of the Soviet Union, its space industry has been dogged by technical faults that highlight

a general crisis in Russia’s hi-tech sector.

In April, a technical glitch forced a one-day postponement of the inaugural launch of an unmanned Soyuz rocket from Russia’s new Vostochny spaceport in the Far East in the presence of President Vladimir Putin, who had specially travelled there to watch the event.

sell their kidneys.

Traffickers then used forged documents to get them admitted into the Apollo Hospital for the necessary procedure. The total number of victims involved is still being investigated but five cases have been identified so far.

The failure of Apollo hospital’s transplant committee to identify the fraudulent documentation has also been questioned, but the hospital said it had followed all legal requirements.

“The hospital, in order to ensure compliance with the law and diligence in process has an independent body with external members also for according consent for any transplant surgery,” said the statement.

“This Committee goes through all documents necessary to ensure that requirements under the Act are complied with. Further, the hospital has ensured that all due process as per the law has been followed.”

(Reporting by Nita Bhalla, Editing by Ros Russell; Please credit the Thomson Reuters Foundation, the charitable arm of Thomson Reuters, that covers humanitarian news, women’s rights, trafficking, corruption and climate change.

46

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 8, 2016 • T H I S D AY

INTERNATIONAL

Brazil: Prosecutor Seeks Arrest of Senate President, Ruling Party Leader Brazil’s chief prosecutor asked the Supreme Court to authorize the arrest of the presidents of the Senate and of the ruling PMDB party for allegedly trying to obstruct police investigations, newspaper O Globo said yesterday.

Supreme Court Justice Teori Zavascki must now decide whether to accept the request, O Globo said. Chief prosecutor Rodrigo Janot also requested permission to arrest suspended House speaker Eduardo Cunha

and former president José Sarney, who was a senator until 2014, for seeking to block the two-year-old probe into political kickbacks at state oil company Petrobras.

Senate President Renan Calheiros, PMDB acting president and Senator Romero Jucá, former president Sarney and Cunha are some of Brazil’s most powerful political leaders. The four men have denied any attempt to halt the probe.

Their arrests could weaken the new administration of interim

President Michel Temer, as it seeks to build support in the Senate to convict suspended President Dilma Rousseff on charges of breaking budgetary laws.

The chief prosecutor also requested Calheiros be removed from the Senate presidency, O Globo said. If he is suspended, an ally of Rousseff, Senator Jorge Viana, would become the acting president of the Senate in the middle of her impeachment trial in the upper house.

The trial is expected to conclude in mid-August as Brazil is hosting the Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro. Under Brazilian law, the Supreme Court must approve any judicial action taken against members of congress. Sarney was included in the request, even though he is no longer a senator, because he is mentioned in the same case as Jucá and Calheiros.

The chief prosecutor’s request to the Supreme Court came following the release of

recordings made by Sérgio Machado, a former senator and PMDB ally who struck a plea bargain deal with prosecutors to collaborate in the sweeping corruption probe that has plunged Brazil into political mayhem.

Machado recorded Calheiros, Juca and Sarney, separately, allegedly discussing strategies to weaken the investigation.

The recordings were leaked by newspapers in recent weeks and caused Jucá’s dismissal

as Planning Minister.

The Supreme Court voted unanimously last month to remove Cunha, a bitter rival of Rousseff’s, as speaker of the lower house on charges of obstructing the corruption investigation. Media representatives for Calheiros, Jucá, Sarney, Cunha and Janot did not immediately respond to requests for comment on the O Globo report. A Supreme Court spokeswoman declined to comment.

Israeli PM Frequents Russia as US Influence in Mideast Recedes With the Obama administration in its final months, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has been a more frequent and feted visitor to Moscow than Washington, his eye on shifting big-power influence in the Middle East.

No one expects Netanyahu, who was hosted by Russian President Vladimir Putin yesterday for the third time in the last year, to break up Israel’s bedrock alliance with the United States. But he is mindful of Putin’s sway in the Syrian civil war and other Middle East crises as the U.S. footprint in the region wanes.

“Netanyahu’s not defecting, but what we see here is a bid to maneuver independently to promote Israel’s interests,” said Zvi Magen, a former Israeli ambassador to Russia now with Tel Aviv University’s Institute for National Security Studies.

With Russian forces fighting alongside Iran and Lebanese Hezbollah guerrillas to keep Syrian President Bashar al-Assad in power, Putin is the closest thing to a guarantor that Israel’s three most potent enemies will not attack it from the north.

He is also the first port of call for Netanyahu’s argument that Assad’s loss of central control vindicates Israel’s de facto annexation of the Golan Heights in 1981, a move never recognized internationally.

Israel took the area in a 1967 war.

Netanyahu can offer Putin reciprocal Israeli restraint in Syria, where Russia maintains a strategic Mediterranean base, and a chance to play a greater role in Israeli-Palestinian peacemaking that has long been dominated by the

United States.

With the Obama administration and France hinting they might back a future U.N. Security Council resolution against Israeli settlements on occupied Palestinian land, Netanyahu also has an interest in sounding out the views of veto-wielding Russia.

Moscow’s guest-list suggests mediation may be under way.

When Netanyahu last came, in April, it was three days after a visit by Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas. On Wednesday, when Netanyahu departs, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov is scheduled to host Palestinian counterpart Riyad al-Maliki.

Yaakov Amidror, one of Netanyahu’s former national security advisers, played down the scope of Israeli-Russian relations. He said they focused on preventing the sides accidentally trading fire over Syria and were underpinned

by Netanyahu’s personal rapport with Putin - hence their meetings every few months.

By contrast, while Netanyahu and Obama have feuded on Iran and the Palestinians and are wrangling over a new memorandum of understanding (MOU) for future U.S. defense aid to Israel, their countries’ partnership ticks over thanks to a network of military, diplomatic and parliamentary channels, Amidror said.

“In Syria, there is liable to be a clash tomorrow morning that neither we nor the Russians want,” said Amidror, now with the BeginSadat Center for Strategic Studies at Israel’s Bar-Ilan University and the U.S. think-tank JINSA, alluding to the risk of a friendly-fire incident.

THE LAST PRAYER

Members of the Louisville Islamic Center pray together before an inter-faith service to honor Muhammad Ali at the Islamic Center in Louisville, Kentucky…yesterday

Ugandan Leader Names New Cabinet, Gives Wife Key Ministry Uganda’s veteran leader, Yoweri Museveni, has named a new cabinet that retained his prime minister and ministers in the key energy and finance jobs while giving the education portfolio to his wife. Museveni, 71, who has ruled the east African country for 30 years, was declared winner of the February presidential election with 60 percent of the vote and sworn in for a new term on May 12. Most of his main ministers were reappointed.

His main rival Kizza Besigye rejected the results and called

the election a sham, citing widespread rigging, intimidation by security forces and use of state funds to bribe voters.

Tensions have been simmering since the February poll, with Besigye kept under virtual house arrest for several weeks while security clashed with his supporters on multiple occasions.

On May 13, Besigye was charged with treason after a mock ceremony in which his party said he had been sworn in as Uganda’s president. He has been in detention since.

In the new line-up, Museveni reappointed his Vice President Edward Kiwanuka Ssekandi and Prime Minister Ruhakana Rugunda and maintained Matia Kasaija and Irene Muloni as the important finance and energy ministers respectively.

Museveni’s wife Janet Museveni was named as the new minister of education and sports, usually a coveted portfolio in Uganda because it takes one of the largest chunks of the annual budget. Andrew Karamagi, a human rights lawyer and political

commentator told Reuters the new cabinet’s selection criteria appeared based on a need to balance varied ethnic and religious interests to maintain a broad base of political support.

Many of the new faces were in smaller ministries or as ministers of state. “It’s less about performance, about delivery, about citizens,” Karamagi said. Government spokesman Shaban Bantariza rejected the accusation, saying Museveni was certain about his appointees’ merits.

accused soldiers from the Republic of Congo of killing 18 people, including women and children, while serving as United Nations and African Union peacekeepers in Central African Republic.

A Congolese defence ministry official, contacted in Brazzaville, said an investigation was underway and rejected claims it had ignored the allegations.

Central African Republic descended into chaos in March 2013 when predominantly Muslim Seleka rebels seized power, triggering reprisals by “anti-balaka”Christian militias.

The New York-based rights

tortured two anti-balaka leaders to death in December 2013, publically executed another two suspected anti-balaka in February 2014, and beat two civilians to death in June 2015.HRW also said a mass grave found near a base once occupied

by Congolese troops in the town of Boali was found to contain the remains of 12 people identified as having been detained by the peacekeepers on March 24, 2014.

“The discovery of 12 bodies is damning evidence of an appalling crime by Congolese peacekeepers, who had been sent to protect people, not prey on them,”said HRW Africa

The United Nations took over peacekeeping responsibilities from the A.U. in Central African Republic in September 2014 and has since come under fire for rights violations alleged to have been committed by its soldiers.The HRW said the U.N. force had insisted the Congolese troops implicated in the alleged killings in Boali be sent home and replaced by new units.

“Simply rotating troops out of the Central African Republic with no further consequences sends the message that peacekeepers can get away with murder,” Mudge said.

U.N. spokeman Stephane Dujarric

investigated the allegations and handed their findings over to local authorities.

At least 13 people, including five women, one of whom was six months pregnant, and two children, were arrested at the home of a local anti-balaka leader after a clash that resulted in the death of a Congolese soldier, HRW said.

That night witnesses interviewed

by HRW heard screams and two rounds of gunfire from the Congolese base.The peacekeepers later warned local residents to avoid a nearby area, claiming it had been mined, HRW said.

Angolan Separatist Leader Human Rights Watch Accuses Congo of Killing Peacekeepers Dies in Exile said U.N. human rights officials The Human Rights Watch yesterday group said Congolese soldiers researcher Lewis Mudge.

The leader of a rebel movement seeking independence for Angola’s main oil region has died in exile in France, the group said in a statement seen by Reuters yesterday.

The Front for the Liberation of the Enclave of Cabinda (FLEC) said Nzita Henriques Tiago, 88, would be buried in France on Friday as he only wanted his body taken back to Cabinda if it was an independent state.

It did not say exactly when Tiago, who was president and co-founder of FLEC, died. FLEC fought a lowlevel insurgency for four decades in the thin enclave sandwiched

between Democratic Republic of Congo and the Republic of Congo which accounts for around half of Angola’s oil output.

The group grabbed world headlines in January 2010 for a deadly attack on a bus carrying the Togo national soccer team during the African Nations Cup held in Angola but has not carried out a recent highprofile strike. Crude output from Angola, Africa’s second-largest oil producer, was never seriously threatened by the rebels as the crude is drilled offshore.

47

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 8, 2016 • T H I S D AY

INTERNATIONAL

US, Japan, India to Hold Major Naval Drill in Western Pacific A fleet of U.S., Japanese and Indian warships will hold a large-scale joint naval exercise over eight days from Friday in the Western Pacific, close to a Japanese island chain, part of which China claims.

As China pushes its territorial claims in the neighboring South China Sea, Tokyo and Washington worry it will look to extend its influence into the Western Pacific, with a growing fleet of submarines and surface vessels

to ply distant oceans.

The drill, dubbed Malabar, is an annual event between the U.S. and India, and Japan is joining it this year for the first time since 2007, Japan’s Ministry of Defense said in a statement.

Among the Japanese warships, which will practice submarine hunting and anti-aircraft defense, will be the Hyuga, one of the country’s three new helicopter carriers. Last year, the drill was held

in the Bay of Bengal near India.

Japan’s southwestern island chain, which hosts the biggest concentration of U.S. military personnel in Asia, blocks China’s east coast access to the Western Pacific. Japan’s military is reinforcing

the islands with radar stations and anti-ship missile batteries.

Lying around 220 km (137 miles) west of Taiwan are a group of uninhabited isles, known as the Senkaku in Japan and the Diaoyu in China, which are controlled by Tokyo

and claimed by Beijing.

On Tuesday, China told the United States it should play a constructive role in safeguarding peace in the disputed South China Sea, as U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry called for talks and a peaceful resolution.

China claims most of the South China Sea, through which $5 trillion in ship-borne trade passes every year. The Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Taiwan and Brunei have overlapp i n g c l a ims, as well as close military ties w i t h the United States.

Emotions Run High as Family, Friends Bury Afghan Journalist About 200 family, friends and journalists gathered on the outskirts of Kabul yesterday to bury a journalist killed in a militant attack on Sunday while assisting an NPR news crew in southern Afghanistan.\ Zabihullah Tamanna was killed alongside American photojournalist David Gilkey when the Afghan army Humvee they were riding in was struck by a rocket during a suspected Taliban ambush.

Mourners became emotional as the crowd carried the coffin, draped with green curtains. “My father was my greatest supporter so now I feel lonely and miss the fun and hardship we shared,” said Tamanna’s 10-year-old son, Mustafa. Tamanna leaves a wife and three children.

“He was like an angel for me,” Mustafa said. “When I heard my father was dead I couldn’t believe it and I said that this is not true. I feel a huge pain. I feel like I am on fire.” Others expressed anger at the insurgents suspected of firing on the military convoy that carried the NPR team.

“This is not Islam. Islam never says to kill a Muslim or an innocent person,” said Mohammed Yousuf, Tamanna’s brother in law. “Those who committed this act will go to hell and I ask Allah to eliminate all of them not only from Afghanistan but from all over the world where they commit such acts.”Tamanna’s death while traveling with Afghan troops in Helmand province caps a particularly deadly time for employees of Afghan media companies.

“We have lost ten journalists so far this year and it means that this is a bloody year for journalists in Afghanistan,” said Abdul Mujeeb Khalvatgar, executive director of an Afghan media advocacy group, who criticized all sides of the conflict for not prioritizing press freedom.

The Taliban insurgency has gained strength since the withdrawal of international troops from combat at the end of 2014, with the militants stronger now than any point since they were driven from power by U.S.-backed forces in late 2001.

Renamo Gunmen Attack Train in Central Mozambique Gunmen from rebel group, Renamo, attacked a train in central Mozambique on its way to a coal mine, injuring the driver’s assistant, the southern African nation’s state news agency reported yesterday.

The train of 42 wagons was empty as it traveled to the mine operated by Brazil’s Vale SA at Moatize in the northern Tete province, when gunmen fired on the lead locomotive, shattering its windscreen.

Renamo, which is also the official opposition in Mozambique, never completely disarmed after a civil war with the governing Frelimo

party and launched a lowlevel guerrilla campaign in late 2012.

Vale, which owns the train according to the news agency, did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

More than 2,000 Mozambicans fled to neighboring Malawi in January as fighting flared up between government forces and rebels in the Tete province.

This is the first time since Renamo stepped up hostilities this year that a train has come under attack, the state news agency reported, adding that previous ambushes have been against traffic on the main roads.

AGAINST THE STAT

A Venezuelan opposition supporter throws a stone against riot policemen in Caraccas…yesterda

Albinism: Amnesty Accuses Malawi Police of Failure Amnesty International accused Malawian police of failing to protect people with albinism who are targeted for their body parts which are used in magical potions and other ritual practices.

Police said they were doing all in their power to end the surge in the killing of albinos in the southern African country.

Albinos have also been targeted in Malawi’s neighbor Tanzania and elsewhere in Africa.

Deprose Muchena, Amnesty

International’s Director for Southern Africa, said in a statement that Malawian authorities had failed to protect the albinos, leaving them at the mercy of criminal gangs who hunt them down for their body parts.

The report says at least 18 people with albinism have been killed in Malawi since November of 2014 while at least five others are known to have been abducted and remain missing. Four were murdered

in April 2016, including a baby.

“Their bones are believed to be sold to practitioners of traditional medicine in Malawi and Mozambique for use in charms and magical potions in the belief that they bring wealth and good luck,”Amnesty said.

“The macabre trade is also fueled by a belief that bones of people with albinism contain gold.” Malawi government spokesperson and Minister of Information Patricia Kaliati dismissed the claims by

Amnesty.

“We are doing everything within the law to stop this carnage,” Kaliati told Reuters.

Malawi Police spokesman Nikolasi Gondwa said gangs in neighboring Tanzania and Mozambique were fuelling the trade. Albinism is a congenital disorder affecting about one in 20,000 people worldwide who lack pigment in their skin, hair and eyes.

It is more common in subSaharan Africa.

EU Offers Carrot, Stick to Africa to Help Curb Migration Europe plans to coax as well as pressure African governments to help curb migration northward using a mixture of aid and trade levers under proposals put forward yesterday by the EU executive.

As Africa’s biggest donors, divided from the world’s poorest continent by a sea that is failing to deter many from attempting risky crossings, EU leaders want to see their trade-and-aid euros used to help solve their migration crisis, though that has brought criticism from African governments and rights groups.

“We propose to use a mix of positive and negative incentives to reward those third countries willing to cooperate effectively

with us and to ensure that there are consequences for those who do not,”Frans Timmermans, the deputy head of the European Commission, told the European Parliament in Strasbourg.

One focus of EU pressure will be the reluctance of some African governments to take back their own citizens deported from Europe. The Commission said some 8 billion euros ($9 billion) was on offer over five years for aid targeted at giving Africans more incentive to stay at home, though much of that must come from EU states and much is money already promised.

Timmermans noted the deal he has negotiated with Turkey to

staunch flows of Syrian refugees and other migrants to Greek islands - a deal achieved by offering Ankara financial and diplomatic concessions and criticised by human rights groups - and said there was a need to curb renewed crossings from North Africa to Italy, which have claimed nearly 3,000 lives.

“We must do the same that we have done on the route through the Aegean also in the southern Mediterranean to find solutions, sustainable solutions,”the former Dutch foreign minister said. His Commission colleague, EU foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini, dismissed a suggestion from Libya’s fragile, U.N.-backed government that

Brussels might pressure Libyans to take back migrants who set sail from its coast, as Turkey now does.

Europe’s plan was to get irregular migrants from Africa who do not qualify for asylum back to their home countries, she said, noting that few Libyans themselves make the crossing.\ Jordan and Lebanon in the Middle East, the main hosts along with Turkey of Syrian refugees, would be priority recipients of help under the EU’s new migration“compacts”, which the Commission said aimed to leverage EU funding with private investments that could reach tens of billions of euros.

50

T H I S D AY • WEDNESDAY, JUNE 8 , 2016

BUSINESS/MONEYGUIDE

Actis Raises over $500m for New African Real Estate Fund Eromosele Abiodun A leading growth markets investor, Actis, has announced that it has reached final close on its third opportunistic private real estate fund, Actis Africa Real Estate Fund 3 (ARE3) with commitments totalling more than $500 million, comfortably exceeding its original $400 million target.

The company said in a statement that ARE3 is the largest opportunistic private real estate fund targeting sub-Saharan Africa raised in the market to date. ARE3 has a diverse investor base, including pension funds, sovereign wealth funds, development finance institutions and endowments from Africa, Asia, Europe and North America. The new fund is significantly larger than

Actis Africa Real Estate Fund 2, which closed in October 2012 with commitments of $278 million.

“ARE3 will invest predominantly in prime retail, office and industrial developments in the capital cities of 7 - 8 sub-Saharan African markets.

Over the past decade, the team has invested in assets valued at $1.4 billion on a gross asset value basis,” the statement added.

The team is led by David Morley and includes two other partners, Amanda Jean-Baptiste and Louis Deppe and 11 other investment professionals across offices in London, Johannesburg, Nairobi and Lagos.”

A director in the company, David Morley in the statement said: “This successful fundraising is a further sign of

Heritage Bank Targets Important Bank Status Eromosele Abiodun Having grown its balance sheet size to over N600 billion in just three years, Heritage Bank Plc has said that it is working towards joining the league of systemically important banks (SIBs) in the country.

Currently, the SIBs in Nigeria today are FirstBank of Nigeria Limited, Guaranty Trust Bank Plc (GTBank), Zenith Bank Plc, United Bank for Africa Plc (UBA), Access Bank Plc, Skye Bank Plc, Ecobank Nigeria and Diamond Bank Plc. Executive Director, Services Bank, Heritage Bank, Mr. Niyi Adeseun, stated this yesterday when the bank emerged the fastest growing bank in the National Pilot Newspaper award.

Adeseun who received the award on behalf of the Managing Director and Chief

Executive Officer of Heritage Bank Plc, Ifie Sekibo, said the objective of the bank is to get there without doing anything unethical.

“We have given ourselves a five year target and we have achieving a massive part of it in three years, if not for this economic slowdown we would have been close if not there now, “he said.

The bank, he added, plans to be in the capital market soon, adding that it also plans to take some of the SMEs it has been working with to the stock market.

“It’s been our plan since the day we started this business.

We are not planning to be there alone; we are bringing SMEs that we have helped to grow over the years. Our objective is to produce more Dangotes in the nearest future.

We feel happy that some

confidence from our investors in our ability to identify the most compelling opportunities across Africa. With this new vehicle, they will satisfy part of the demand for institutional quality real estate in some of the fastest growing cities globally.”

Also, Senior Partner at Actis, Torbjorn Caesar said: “We are delighted that investors have chosen to recognise our track record by committing their capital to our third real estate fund, and we look forward to continuing our contribution to the development of cities across Africa. With our focus on real estate, energy and private equity, and its near-70 year heritage, Actis is uniquely placed to provide investors with access to the world’s growth markets.”

Systemically people appreciated what we have done, since we started this institution a few years ago we had a plan and we are gradually working towards achieving our objectives. We thank you for voting us the fastest growing bank. Before we had the business combination with Enterprise Bank, we had about 15 branches; the business combination has helped us spread quickly to the level we are now. Since 2015, we have made effort to be everywhere that we want to be and we are happy that it is been recognised.

“The economic situation in the country is an opportunity for us because where there is a challenge, there is an opportunity.

What is happening in Nigeria today is actually happening all over the world. Africa, Europe, and America it is the same problem we are facing, it is economics, it is cyclical.

Elumelu Harps on Enabling Environment for Private Capital Investment

MARKET INDICATORS MONEY AND CREDIT STATISTICS Broad Money (M2)

20,470,436.00

-- Narrow Money (M1)

9,040,817.68

---- Currency Outside Banks

1,441,365.03

---- Demand Deposits

7,599,452.65

-- Quasi Money

11,429,618.32

Net Foreign Assets (NFA)

5,551,714.27

Net Domestic Assets(NDA)

14,918,721.73

-- Net Domestic Credit (NDC)

22,664,815.74

---- Credit to Government (Net)

3,782,578.01

---- Memo: Credit to Govt. (Net) less FMA

4,991,246.39

---- Memo: Fed. and Mirror Accounts (FMA)

-1,208,668.38

---- Credit to Private Sector (CPS)

18,882,237.73

--Other Assets Net

-7,746,094.02

Reserve Money (Base Money)

5,758,634.07

--Currency in Circulation

1,811,090.48

--Banks Reserves

3,947,543.59

Chairman, Heirs Holdings, Mr. Tony Elumelu yesterday tasked the three arms of government to hands-off business and rather provide an investor-friendly environment to woo and sustain private capital into various sectors of the economy.

He said: “There is so much global private capital seeking investment destinations. But as we know global private capital goes to where it is most welcome.

“Therefore, the challenge before all our three arms of government should be how to ensure we create the environment that will attract and retain these investments in our country.”

Speaking in Abuja at a twoday workshop on reviving the nation’s capital market, which was organised by the joint session of the National Assembly , Elumelu argued that there was need to fine tune most of the country’s legislation especially those that affect

business operations in order to attract foreign private capital.

He said: “Our laws are not perfect, that we need to review, amend and enhance many of them to improve the lives of our citizens; “The proper role of government is not to provide employment for everyone, but to create, sustain and secure an enabling environment for citizens to independently create their own jobs and their success, using their own talents; and According to him, “Until we legislate laws that enhance the competitiveness of our economy and the ease of doing business in Nigeria, you should not have any feeling or sense of accomplishment.”

He said: “The private sector must take over the role the government sector has wrongly assumed all these years. But for that to happen, the government must focus on its proper role in creating, improving and strengthening the enabling environment for business.

Initial Price (N)

“And government as we know is not only the executive arm. The trinity of government is accountable here. But the good news is that the legislative appears to be on the path to playing its part through initiatives such as this.”

In his delivery titled: “Deepening the Nigerian Capital Market to Include Privatised and Systemically Important Entities”, he told the gathering that though many state-owned enterprises had been privatised, not many have come to the market to help create the middle class.

He said apart from Transcorp Hotels and a few others, the Systemically, important corporations including the IOCS, and Telcos are not listed on the stock market.

“This cuts off the ordinary Nigerians from benefiting from their country’s resource endowments,” he said.

He, however, canvassed tax holidays and other incentives to woo multinational to list on the capital market.

• Source - CBN

MANAGED FUNDS

Wants IOCS, telcos to list on NSE James Emejo in Abuja

(MILLION NAIRA)

MARCH 2016

Stanbic Balanced Fund

Buying Price(N)

Selling Price

1,660.29

1,685.29

Stanbic IBTC NEF

1,000.00

11,002.32

11,326.67.11

Stanbic SIBond

20

120.47

120.47

Stanbic IBTC Ethical

1

1.10

1.13

Stanbic IBTC GIF

142.90

143.38

UBA Balanced Fund

1.2563

1.2493

UBA Bond Fund

1.3443

1.3443

UBA Equity Fund

0.8205

0.8074

UBA Money Market Fund

1.1510

1.1510

ARM Aggressive Growth Fund

N13.0544

N13.4480

ARM Discovery Fund

N288.2515

N296.9425

ARM Ethical Fund

N22.5268

N23.2060

ARM Money Market Fund

13.1030 (Yield % ) • Monetary Policy Rate - 13%

OPEC DAILY BASKET PRICE AS AT MONDAY 6, JUNE 2016 The price of OPEC basket of thirteen crudes stood at $46.00 a barrel on Monday, compared with $45.73 the previous Friday, according to OPEC Secretariat calculations.

The new OPEC Reference Basket of Crudes (ORB) is made up of the following: Saharan Blend (Algeria), Girassol (Angola), Oriente (Ecuador), Minas (Indonesia), Iran Heavy (Islamic Republic of Iran), Basra Light (Iraq), Kuwait Export (Kuwait), Es Sider (Libya), Bonny Light (Nigeria), Qatar Marine (Qatar), Arab Light (Saudi Arabia), Murban (UAE) and Merey (Venezuela).

SOURCE: OPEC headquarters, Vienna

49

T H I S D AY • WEDNESDAY, JUNE 8, 2016

Nigeria’s top 50 stocks based on market fundamentals

6-June-16

3-June-16

% Change

Capitalisation

EPS

P/E

P/S

Div. Yld

Price/ Book Value

01 Dangote Cement Plc

171.00

169.50

0.88%

2,913,926,766,255.00

10.64

15.93

5.87

4.72%

4.48

02 Nigerian Brew. Plc.

137.14

137.02

0.09%

1,087,396,895,780.32

5.37

25.52

3.93

2.63%

6.37

03 Nestle Nigeria Plc.

755.00

755.00

0.00%

598,455,470,260.00

29.95

25.21

3.96

3.84%

15.75

04 Guaranty Trust Bank Plc.

18.80

19.20

-2.08%

553,306,169,411.20

3.38

5.68

2.47

9.22%

1.37

05 Zenith Bank Plc

14.80

14.95

-1.00%

464,668,108,032.80

3.37

4.44

1.09

12.04%

0.79

06 Lafarge Africa Plc.

80.01

80.01

0.00%

364,437,693,818.10

5.93

13.50

1.36

3.75%

2.07

07 Ecobank Transnational Incorporated

16.58

16.43

0.91%

304,235,559,144.70

1.39

11.80

0.58

3.77%

0.81

08 Forte Oil Plc.

196.00

196.00

0.00%

255,286,296,188.00

4.45

44.06

2.05

1.76%

5.52

09 Seplat Petroleum Dev. Co. Ltd.

350.00

350.15

-0.04%

193,658,609,550.00

23.48

14.91

1.71

4.55%

0.69

10 United Bank for Africa Plc

4.70

4.72

-0.42%

170,513,773,713.40

1.64

2.87

0.54

12.71%

0.51

11 Access Bank Plc.

5.56

5.56

0.00%

160,839,522,268.36

2.28

2.44

0.48

9.89%

0.44

12 Stanbic IBTC Holdings Plc

14.97

15.75

-4.95%

149,700,000,000.00

2.04

7.73

1.33

0.63%

1.40

13 Guinness Nig Plc

99.05

102.00

-2.89%

149,158,225,021.40

0.78

131.06

3.08

0.00%

3.44

14 FBN Holdings Plc

3.89

4.00

-2.75%

139,632,688,960.88

0.42

9.48

0.28

3.75%

0.25

15 Unilever Nigeria Plc.

32.00

32.00

0.00%

121,065,480,000.00

0.32

101.53

2.04

0.16%

15.13

16 P Z Cussons Nigeria Plc.

22.74

22.74

0.00%

90,288,648,003.30

1.10

20.72

1.25

5.72%

2.15

17 7-Up Bottling Comp. Plc.

138.50

138.50

0.00%

88,721,765,275.50

11.12

12.45

1.14

1.59%

3.70

18 Dangote Sugar Refinery Plc

6.80

6.80

0.00%

81,600,000,000.00

0.96

7.07

0.81

7.35%

1.40

19 Oando Plc

6.10

6.16

-0.97%

73,411,175,253.40

0.50

12.32

0.13

12.18%

0.47

20.00

19.60

2.04%

65,884,985,600.00

0.64

30.67

3.49

1.28%

5.36

161.51

161.51

0.00%

58,239,740,765.62

13.51

11.95

0.91

4.46%

3.79

22 Flour Mills Nig. Plc.

21.30

22.00

-3.18%

55,896,252,083.10

1.84

11.95

0.18

9.09%

0.56

23 Julius Berger Nig. Plc.

42.10

43.00

-2.09%

55,572,000,000.00

1.85

23.26

0.42

3.49%

2.34

162.55

170.00

-4.38%

55,189,274,604.35

11.92

14.26

0.28

8.24%

3.55

25 Transnational Corporation Of Nigeria Plc

1.40

1.34

4.48%

54,209,396,395.00

0.05

25.54

1.27

0.00%

0.59

26 Diamond Bank Plc

2.09

2.23

-6.28%

48,405,212,943.12

0.24

9.13

0.24

0.00%

0.24

20 International Breweries Plc. 21 Mobil Oil Nig Plc.

24 Total Nigeria Plc.

27 Sterling Bank Plc.

1.49

1.55

-3.87%

42,897,723,007.74

0.36

4.34

0.40

5.81%

0.47

20.50

20.50

0.00%

38,503,141,820.00

3.21

6.39

1.14

6.34%

3.72

1.28

1.32

-3.03%

37,072,109,685.76

0.48

2.75

0.26

12.12%

0.21

30 U A C N Plc.

19.00

19.00

0.00%

36,496,423,353.00

2.70

7.04

0.50

5.26%

0.49

31 Presco Plc

35.70

35.70

0.00%

35,700,000,000.00

3.28

10.89

3.14

0.28%

1.59

32 FCMB Group Plc.

1.67

1.67

0.00%

33,070,527,004.27

0.24

6.95

0.22

5.99%

0.20

33 Wema Bank Plc.

0.76

0.76

0.00%

29,316,594,221.56

0.06

12.60

0.64

0.00%

0.64

34 Okomu Oil Palm Plc.

30.05

30.05

0.00%

28,664,995,500.00

2.76

10.89

2.94

0.33%

2.38

35 Cap Plc

38.00

36.50

4.11%

26,600,000,000.00

2.49

14.69

3.62

3.15%

16.81

36 Glaxo Smithkline Consumer Nig. Plc.

20.00

20.00

0.00%

23,917,529,760.00

0.81

24.78

0.78

1.50%

1.81

37 National Salt Co. Nig. Plc

8.38

8.00

4.75%

22,202,293,607.64

0.79

10.07

1.31

6.88%

2.99

38 Mansard Insurance Plc

2.10

2.00

5.00%

22,050,000,000.00

0.16

12.63

1.27

2.50%

1.21

39 Custodian And Allied Insurance Plc

3.42

3.42

0.00%

20,115,975,546.90

0.71

4.79

0.68

4.09%

0.77

40 Skye Bank Plc

1.20

1.22

-1.64%

16,656,361,692.00

0.85

1.43

0.12

24.59%

0.12

41 Honeywell Flour Mill Plc

1.67

1.67

0.00%

13,243,430,088.86

0.14

11.82

0.27

9.58%

0.62

42 Continental Reinsurance Plc

1.10

1.10

0.00%

11,410,018,743.20

0.21

5.32

0.58

10.91%

0.73

43 Unity Bank Plc

0.96

0.92

4.35%

11,221,764,424.32

0.54

1.70

0.17

0.00%

0.12

44 Cement Co. Of North.Nig. Plc

7.14

7.14

0.00%

8,972,679,249.24

0.96

7.47

0.69

1.40%

0.88

45 Nigerian Aviation Handling Company Plc

4.68

4.88

-4.10%

7,601,343,750.00

0.33

14.74

0.93

4.10%

1.30

46 UACN Property Development Co. Limited

4.02

4.02

0.00%

6,909,374,979.90

1.81

2.22

0.62

17.41%

0.21

47 Wapic Insurance Plc

0.50

0.50

0.00%

6,691,369,126.00

0.10

5.16

0.94

6.00%

0.45

48 Resort Savings & Loans Plc

0.50

0.50

0.00%

5,664,866,202.00

4.68

0.11

0.02

0.00%

1.89

49 AIICO Insurance Plc.

0.77

0.74

4.05%

5,336,257,449.60

0.28

2.68

0.16

6.76%

0.53

50 Fidson Healthcare Plc

1.95

2.05

-4.88%

2,925,000,000.00

0.50

4.13

0.37

2.44%

0.49

28 Cadbury Nigeria Plc. 29 Fidelity Bank Plc

TOTAL

8,846,939,488,539.54

TOTAL MARKET CAP

9,478,701,539,024.36

% OF MARKET CAP Annotation - MA* = Simple Moving Average

93.33%

Table 1 Market Statistics Mkt Indicators NSE All Share Index NSE Market Cap (N'Trillion) Thisday BGL 50 Index Thisday BGL 50 Market Cap (N'Trillion)

Open 3-June-16

Close 6-June-16

Change %

27,634.42 9.49

27,598.54 9.48

-0.13% -0.13%

113.75 8.86

113.62 8.85

-0.11% -0.11%

Table 3 Top 5 Gainers Stock

Open Close Change % 3-June-16 6-June-16

Mansard Insurance Plc National Salt Co. Nig. Plc Transnational Corporation Of Nigeria Plc Unity Bank Plc Cap Plc

2.00 8.00 1.34

2.10 8.38 1.40

5.00% 4.75% 4.48%

0.92 36.50

0.96 38.00

4.35% 4.11%

Table 4 Top 5 Losers Stock

Open Close Change % 3-June-16 6-June-16

Diamond Bank Plc Stanbic IBTC Holdings Plc Fidson Healthcare Plc Total Nigeria Plc. Nigerian Aviation Handling Company Plc

2.23 15.75 2.05 170.00 4.88

2.09 14.97 1.95 162.55 4.68

-6.28% -4.95% -4.88% -4.38% -4.10%

Sell Pressure resumes as ASI drops 0.13%

Market pulse on the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) today – Monday, June 6, 2016 ended on a negative note as the market closed red due to intense sell pressure. This was further highlighted by negative performances from the NSE Sub sectors; Banking, Consumer Goods and Oil & Gas (Save Insurance). However, trading activities decreased in volume as 142.34 million shares worth N1.42 billion in 3,695 deals exchanged hands today. This is a decrease from the 243.80 million shares worth N2.43 billion in 3,942 deals carried out on Friday. Topping in volume terms was FCMB Plc, Access Bank Plc and Diamond bank Plc, while Nigerian Breweries Plc and Zenith Bank Plc ended trading as the most active stocks in value terms.

The All Share Index (NSEASI) closed negative with a 0.13% (-35.88) decrease to close at 27,598.54 from 27,634.42 the previous trading day. Market Capitalization depreciated in tandem to N9.48 trillion from N9.49 trillion of prior trading day. Similarly, the Thisday BGL 50 Index followed suit with a loss of 0.11% to close at 113.62 from 113.75 recorded the previous trading day, while its market capitalization stood at N8.85 trillion from N8.86 trillion of the previous trading day.

A total number of 16 stocks gained on the bourse today while 25 stocks declined, leaving 48 stocks unchanged. Mansard Insurance Plc emerged the toast of investors as it topped the Thisday BGL 50 Index gainers’ list with a gain of 5.00% to close at N2.10 per share. It was followed by NASCON Plc with a gain of 4.75% to close at N8.38 per share. Others on the gainers list include; Transcorp Plc, Unity Bank Plc and CAP Plc, while on the decliners’ list; Diamond Bank Plc led with a loss of 6.28% to close at N2.09 per share. Again, it was followed by Stanbic IBTC Holdings Plc with a loss of 4.95% to close at N14.97 per share. Others on the losers list include; Fidson Healthcare Plc, Total Nigeria Plc and Nigerian Aviation Handling Company Plc. REQUIRED DISCLOSURE This report has been prepared by BGL Plc. BGL Plc does and seeks to do business with companies covered in its research reports. As a result, the firm may have a conflict of interest that could affect the objectivity of this report. Investors should use this report as one of many other factors in making their investment decisions.

For more details go to www.thisdaylive.com

WEDNESDAY JUNE 8, 2016 • T H I S D AY

51

NEWSEXTRA

Osinbajo Inaugurates Presidential Committee on Rice, Wheat Flour millers, wheat farmers sign MoU, peg price of wheat at N140,000/tonne

Tobi Soniyi and James Emejo in Abuja As part of efforts to make Nigeria self-sufficient in rice and wheat, the federal government has established a National Rice and Wheat Task Force.

According to the government, the committee will help in identifying all that the country needs in order to become selfsufficient in rice and wheat and step up current efforts to produce those commodities in Nigeria.

A statement issued by the Senior Special Assistant to the Acting President on Media and Publicity, Laolu Akande, said the vice president inaugurated the task force yesterday at the State House.

Osinbajo said: “What we are trying to achieve is that agriculture is our main stay and we are trying to evolve a strategy for our economy, a strategy for employment and a strategy for feeding our people,” He said the need to feed the people was the focus of the Buhari administration.

“Rice and wheat are our main focus, and making sure that in one year we can show the world that we are serious,” he said.

Members of the committee include governor of Kebbi State, Atiku Bagudu, his Kano counterpart, Abdullahi Ganduje and Ebonyi, David Umahi.

Others include;The Minister of State for Agriculture, Heineken Lokpobiri, the President of Wheat farmers association and President of the Rice farmers association .

Responding, the Chairman of the task force and Governor of Kebbi State, Alhaji Atiku Bagudu, thanked the vice president for the consideration and stated that the disconnect between farmers and millers needed to be addressed.

He added that the two bodies in the value chain needed to be mobilized for maximum results.

Other members of the task force include the Kano State Governor, Dr.Abdulahi Ganduje and David Umahi of Ebonyi State. Others are the Minister of State for Agriculture, Lokpobiri Heineken, the President of Rice Farmers Association, Mallam Aminu Goronyo and the President Wheat Farmers Association Saliu Mohammed.

Meanwhile, flour millers under the aegis of the Flour Milling Association of Nigeria (FMAN) yesterday signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Wheat Farmers Association of Nigeria (WFAN), formally committing to the off-take of locally produced wheat in the country.

The off-take signing agreement which was supervised by the Minister of State for Agriculture and Rural Development, Mr. Heineken Lokpobiri, pegged a

tonnage of wheat at N140,000 in the first year of the agreement.

An offtake agreement is an agreement between a producer of a resource and a buyer to purchase/sell portions of the producer’s future production and yesterday’s endorsement signified a major step towards the present administration’s drive to attain self-sufficiency in local wheat production.

Lokpobiri expressed satisfaction over the agreement, stating that wheat importation had drained billions of naira from the country with the attendant consequences on the economy.

Expressing hope that wheat importation would soon be a thing of the past in the country, he said: “Every tonne of wheat that is imported means creating jobs elsewhere.”

He said the ministry was particularly excited to witness

the synergy between both parties, which are key players in the wheat value chain, given the dwindling fortunes from oil as well as the fact that there was no more foreign exchange available to such importations.

The minister said research had already shown that countries which invest in agriculture make more money and less inflation.

He said the MoU signing between the stakeholders would create huge impact on Nigerians as increased activities could boost foreign exchange for the country.

He, therefore, urged flour millers to invest significantly in research in order to maximise the potentials in the wheat production sector.

Speaking in Abuja at the formal signing of the MoU between FMAN and WFAN at the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (FMARD),

the minister said government would continually work with both FMAN and WFAN in making the industry more viable.

Nevertheless, Vice Chairman, FMAN, Mr. Lanre Jaiyeola said the association will abide by all agreements, adding that the country could achieve self-sufficiency in wheat production “if we all work together with sincerity of purpose.”

He said the essence of the MoU was to guide both players on set modalities for the offtake process stressing that though the initial agreement is currently for one year, FMAN remained committed to supporting the development of local wheat.

He said: “This collaboration shows how far we’ve come in our bid to encourage the local production of wheat in the country.”

On his part, Vice Chairman, Kano State Chapter of the Wheat Farmers Association of Nigeria

(WFAN), Farouk Rabiu Mudi, expressed faith in the collaboration, stating that the country had the capacity to meet all the domestic demand for wheat.

Also, Executive Director, Lake Chad Research Institute (LCRI), Dr. Oluwasina Olabanji, however, noted that though the country had the capacity to grow wheat substantially, issues of market and inputs remained key challenges.

He expressed delight that the issues of inputs were being adequately addressed by the ministry.

He said the quality of the local wheat had been independently tested and found to be of high quality which can compete with global varietties as well as meet exports standards.

He said the MoU, while ensuring that all the wheat produced by farmers are offtaken, it will also leave both parties satisfied.

Ladi Williams: I Shook Hands with My Brother on My Own Volition Tobi Soniyi in Abuja Chief Ladi Williams (SAN), the eldest son of the late legal luminary, Chief F.R.A. Williams (SAN), has said he chose to shake hands with his junior brother, Tokunbo Williams (SAN) at the Supreme Court last Thursday on his own volition.

He added that the court did not force him to greet his brothers, rather, he was the one who stood up, went to his brother and shook hands with him.

The Supreme Court had last Thursday advised the children of the late Williams to settle among themselves, the dispute over father’s Will when the appeal filed by Williams’ eldest son, Ladi, came up for hearing at the court.

But the court advised them to go and settle the dispute out of court.

The court mandated the sons to work out a solution to the dispute among themselves without the involvement of an arbitrator.

Justice Sylvester Ngwuta who presided at the hearing told them that the court would not hear the appeal.

Justice Ngwuta said: “The only thing we want to hear from you is the report of settlement.”

He adjourned the appeal to November 7, 2016 for the Williams’ sons to come and tell the court the agreement reached by them to resolve the decade long dispute.

The justices advised them to involve all other parties so that they would be able to reach a

solution that included everyone.

The court said being the eldest, Ladi should invite his brothers to his house for settlement.

In order to make sure that everyone was carried along in the negotiation to arrive at an out-of-court settlement, Ladi applied to the court to make an order to compel the remaining two children to come to court at the next adjourned date.

The court agreed and made an order directing all the Williams’ sons to come to the court on November 7th, 2016.

In the appeal, Ladi Williams and Chief Kayode Williams are the appellants while Folarin Williams and Tokunbo Williams were the respondents. Four of them are born by the same parents.

Williams died on 29 March 2005 leaving behind four sons.

At the time of his death, it was insinuated that he did not write a Will.

In the appeal, Ladi and Kayode are asking the Supreme Court to hold that since their father made a Will in 1954, the Will should be upheld while an arrangement to refer the dispute over the estate to an arbitration should be discountenanced.

They faulted the decision of the Court of Appeal in Lagos which held that the dispute be referred to arbitration.

According to them, the issues involved were not issues that could be resolved by arbitration but by a court of competent jurisdiction.

SPECIALLY RECOGNISED

L-R: Celebrant, Dr. Ibironke Sodeinde; Wife of Lagos State Governor, Mrs. Bolanle Ambode; and Yeye Oge of Lagos, Mrs. Opral Benson, during a special recognition of meritorious service in the Lagos State Civil Service for Sodeinde in Lagos...yesterday

Wonodi, Pioneer MD Exits NBET as Tenue Expires Chineme Okafor in Abuja The federal government yesterday announced its decision to relieve the pioneer Managing Director of the Nigerian Bulk Electricity Trading (NBET) Plc, Mr. Rumundaka Wonodi, of his task at the agency.

A statement that was mailed to THISDAY in Abuja by the NBET contained this development. It however announced the appointment of Mr. Waziri Bintube as the acting managing director of the agency.

Bintube was the agency’s Chief Financial Officer (CFO).

The statement which was signed by the management stated that Wonodi had completed his tenure and thus was relieved of his job.

It said: “The management of the Nigerian Bulk Electricity Trading Plc (NBET) wishes to announce the exit of its pioneer

MD/CEO, Mr. Rumundaka Wonodi following the successful completion of his tenure of office.

“His post has been taken over by the Chief Financial Officer (CFO), Waziri Bintube, in an acting capacity with effect from 06 June 2016.”

“NBET would like to thank Wonodi for his leadership, support, dedication and achievements as the pioneer CEO of the NBET,” it added.

Under licence from the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), the NBET which is also known as the ‘Bulk Trader’ was established as a special purpose vehicle for carrying out the electricity bulk purchase and re-sale function as contained in the 2005 Electric Power Sector Reform Act (EPSRA).

Wonodi as the pioneer managing director helped to

set up the NBET from paper, and nurtured negoaations for the first ever greenfield power purchase agreement (PPA) in the sector which saw to the commencement of work at the $900 million Azura independent power project.

The Azura power is a 450 megawatts (MW) project situated close to Benin City in Edo State.

To also drive investment in Nigeria’s power sector, the NBET was managed

by Wonodi to earn a robust capitalisation from the government, it is equally government’s anchor agent for World Bank and African Development Bank (AfDB) guarantees for the power sector.

NBET purchases electricity from the generating companies through PPAs and sells the electricity to the distribution companies (Discos) through vesting contracts.

The statement said prior to Bintube’s role as NBET’s CFO, he was Group Head, Construction and Infrastructure, Institutional Banking Group at First Bank.

He reportedly held the role when he returned to Nigeria after seven years as head of the bank’s South African operation.

Waziri, it said is a Fellow of both the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants of the UK (ACCA) and a member of Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN).

He also holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA) Degree from Ahmadu Bello University in Zaria and has attended numerous management development programmes at Huddersfield University, Manchester Business School, Crainfield School of Management, Wharton Businnes School and Columbia University.

52

WEDNESDAY JUNE 8, 2016 • T H I S D AY

NEWSEXTRA

INEC Jails 42 Persons for Election Rigging 32 new parties apply for registration

Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has said it has successfully prosecuted and convicted 42 persons for various election offences.

The commission also said it had so far received 32 fresh applications from various associations for registration as political parties.

The commission which said the applications were being processed,

also stated that more applications were being expected A statement issued by the commission, quoted the Chairman of INEC, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, as saying during the second quarterly consultative meeting with the chairmen and secretaries of registered Political Parties, held yesterday at the commission’s headquarters, that despite severe constraints on the commission, its legal team and the police had

NUJ: Attack on Amuka Clear Signs of Danger to Nigeria’s Democracy, National Security Chiemelie Ezeobi

the alarming level of insecurity of life and property in the country The Nigerian Union of Journalists which are clear signs of danger (NUJ) yesterday, described last to Nigeria’s democracy and to Sunday’s attack on the Publisher national security.

“While the insecurity situation in of Vanguard Newspapers, Mr. Sam Amuka, as a clear sign of danger to Borno, Adamawa and Yobe States Nigeria’s democracy and national is gradually being subdued, yet, elsewhere in the country, it continues security.

In a statement by NUJ National to worsen as daily, human lives Secretary, Mr. Shuaibu Leman, the and property are being wasted union expressed worry about the wantonly.

“The federal government and attack, adding that Nigerians have watched with unbelief and the various security agencies with much alarm and fear as the continue to reassure citizens of ugly situation pulls the nation adequate protection of life and property, yet the situation remains dangerously into vulnerability.

The statement read: “The extremely precarious.

“The attack on Amuka was recent robbery attack on the publisher of Vanguard Newspapers, one too many and the union Amuka at his Anthony Village calls on the police to this time residence in Lagos in the early fish out the hoodlums and bring hours of Sunday, June 5, them to justice.

“The NUJ therefore cautions 2016, has further heighten concerns about safety and security that it is imperative that the federal for journalists and the media in government immediately overhauls completely the security network in the country.

“This has brought to the fore the country to reassure Nigerians another frightening dimension to of their security and that of their the problems of insecurity, being property.

“The nation cannot afford any the second time the publisher will be attacked in his residence. He further degeneration of the security situation with all the attendant was first attacked in 2014.

“The NUJ is thus worried by consequences.”

Glo Reconfirms Dominance in Telecoms with Data Overload Says 48GB for just N8,000 Globacom has reconfirmed its status as the leaders of data in Nigeria with a new unprecedented data regime.

In the new regime tagged Data Overload, Glo subscribers would now receive up to double the data volume previously enjoyed on every plan.

Subscribers to the N1,000 data plan who hitherto enjoyed 1.5GB will now have 2GB, while 10GB of data goes with the N2,500 plan instead of 5GB. Also, 12GB goes for N3,000 instead of the previous arrangement where N3000 could only get 6GB. For the N4,000 data plan, the subscriber will now get 18GB instead of the old 9GB, while the N5,000 subscription will give the customer 24GB. The bundle for N5,000 was previously 12GB. The biggest offer available is the N8,000 subscription which, instead of the old 24GB, now gives the customer a sumptuous 48GB of data.

The new Data Overload is widely adjudged the most attractive in the market by observers, as no operator offers anything near it.

Globacom said in a statement released in Lagos that the new Data Overload was designed to promote upward migration from lower plans and excite Nigerians.

The company added that customers can buy the data plans by dialing *777#, adding that they can also share and gift any part of the plan to their loved ones.

“As the data leader in the industry, we have decided to give our esteemed subscribers the most affordable data value on our super fast network powered by the Glo 1 submarine cable. We also wish to enrich their communication experience through unbelievable data bundles at best-in-class prices,” Globacom added.

The company said it would continue to come out with great products and services for the enjoyment of its teeming subscribers.

successfully secured the conviction of 42 suspects.

According to him: “This is the highest number of convictions in a single case ever achieved by the commission.”

On the issue of the recent revelations of alleged involvement of INEC staff in the subversion of 2015 general election through cash inducement, the INEC boss said: “INEC will also take further administrative action against staff found culpable in this dastardly conduct.

“We will not hesitate to iindict staff where prima facie cases have been established against them by EFCC and immediately terminate the appointments of those indicted.”

Yakubu assured political parties that the commission remaimed committed to the opening of the democratic space in line with the law and guidelines.

He explained that the meeting was a forum for the commission to

brief party leaders on developments in the management of the democratic system.

On the outstanding rerun elections, the INEC Chairman explained that out of 80 courts ordered rerun elections, the commission had successfully conducted 49 and has 31 elections pending as well as one by-lection.

They are: one election in Anambra, four in Imo, one by-election in Kano, three in Kogi, one in Plateau and 22 in Rivers.

He maintained that except for Anambra and Plateau rerun elections which are subjudice, the commission had started the process of consultation leading to the completion of the outstanding elections.

Yakubu welcomed suggestions and inputs from the political parties on areas of constitutional and legal amendments.

He said: “We welcome suggestions by political parties

on areas of amendment you consider important for inclusion in the comprehensive proposal we intend to submit to the National Assembly.”

THISDAY, however gathered from sources at the meeting that there was a lot of heated argument between the officials of the political parties and INEC officials over complaints of poor showings by the commission in recent polls.

Meanwhile, Yakubu decried the low turnout of voters in elections conducted by the commission in the aftermath of the 2015 general election.

He urged political parties to intensify voter mobilisation ahead of the Edo and Ondo governorship elections.

The INEC Chairman urged political parties to intensify voter mobilisation effort in order to galvanise the electorate to the polling units.

He expressed INEC’s desire

to see greater participation of the marginalised and under-represented groups in the electoral process.

“Political parties have the biggest role to play in this regard. As we all know, political parties offer the only platform for contest to public office under our Constitution. women, youths and people with disabilities are noticeable more by their under-representation in elective offices”.

On deployment of ICT in the electoral process, the INEC boss promised that all avenues necessary were being explored to address the challenges arising from the functionality of the Smart Card Reader.

He further said the commission had designed a portal from which all registered voters could confirm and verify their registration online ahead of elections, adding that voters would also be able to transfer their registration from one point to another online.

FOR A BETTER CAPITAL MARKET

L R: Director General, Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Mr. Mounir Gwarzo; Chairman, Senate Committee on Capital Market, Senator Isiaka Adeleke; Chairman, Heirs Holdings and UBA Plc, Mr. Tony Elumelu; CEO, Nigerian Stock Exchange, Mr. Oscar Onyema; and Chairman House Committee on Capital Market, Hon. Yusuf Tajudeen, after Elumelu delivered a paper on ‘Deepening the Nigerian Capital Markets to Include Privatised and Systemically Important Entities,’ at a Capital Market Legislation Forum organised by a joint session of the National Assembly in Abuja....yesterday

FG to Meet Herdsmen over Grazing Reserves More states allocate land for grazing James Emejo in Abuja The Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Mr. Audu Ogbeh, yesterday disclosed that federal government was planning to engage with key leaders of the Fulani tribe within the next few days to court their support towards the establishment of grazing reserves for cattle rearers across the country.

He said the move was aimed at effectively putting an end to the frequent clashes between herdsmen and farmers.

Speaking in Abuja at the opening of a retreat on livestock and dairy development in the country, the minister said though the issues around the herdsmen posed a real challenge, the present administration was exploring all avenues to resolve the problem.

He stressed that although many of the herdsmen hitherto arrested for their involvement in clashes across the country were not Fulanis, a large percentage of Nigerian cattle rearers were from the Fulani tribe.

Ogbeh said: “We are in trouble.

Every country gets into trouble from time to time, even the most developed. But that’s not an excuse for where we are. However, we are in trouble, our economy is down, our earnings are low, we have all kinds of conflict and we are also hungry. As Mr. President said when he signed the budget this year, he said, ‘I feel your pains,’ and we can truly feel it.

“The cost of food is high, it is difficult to pay school fees, power supply is epileptic because of destruction of gas supply facilities and there are many more concerns. But whenever you are in trouble, that’s the time to think.

Lamentations don’t help, which is why organised programmes like this are meant to fix some of these problems we have.

“In the next few days we shall be meeting key persons among the Fulanis and we will talk to them to get their buy-ins into the programmes that we have as part of addressing these concerns.”

The minister’s statement came as the Governor of Sokoto State,

Aminu Tambuwal, also called for constructive engagement between the government, herdsmen and herds owners, adding that most cattle owners were not Fulanis.

Nevertheless, Ogbeh added that the number of states which had provided land for the establishment of grazing reserves had increased to 13, from 11 which was announced last week.

Commenting on the necessity of the workshop, he lamented that the country spends $1.3billion annually importing milk and its related products, stressing that government had over the years failed to categorise cattle rearers as farmers, until the herdsmen began to wreak havoc in towns and remote communities.

He said:”We are facing a conflict, we have to end it and we will end it. Take my words for it! We’ve had enough killings of innocent citizens. No country can boast of how many of its own citizens that its own citizens kill everyday.

It is not an achievement. Those perpetuating these acts should know

that evil has a way of returning to its source. No wonder Shakespeare said, ‘upon horror’s head shall horror accumulate’. So we must do everything to stop the killings.”

However, Tambuwal, in his address at the gathering on livestock said:”We support and commend the policy initiatives of the Federal Government on grazing and grazing reserves. The roaming about of cattle is not the best way to raise them and it is not the best way to ensure that you have a healthy and more beneficial cattle. I believe that there should be a proper and a more constructive engagement with the herdsmen and herds owners; please mark my words, herdsmen and herds owners.

“Some of those herdsmen are people looking for or rearing the herds for some of us who probably are not even Fulanis, and in so many cases who are not Fulanis. So I believe that with the constructive engagement of the herdsmen and herds owners, they will get a better understanding and appreciate the policy of the federal government.”

WEDNESDAY JUNE 8, 2016 • T H I S D AY

53

NEWSEXTRA

Ajimobi Admits Making Three Mistakes in New Education Policy Ademola Babalola in Ibadan

Governor Abiola Ajimobi of Oyo State yesterday begged the people of the state, admitting making three fundamental mistakes in the build up to the new education policy geared towards Public Private Partnership (PPP) arrangement to address the rot in the secondary school education system.

Explaining that leadership comes with responsibility and that since the buck stops on his table, he admitted the fault and face-off that have been trailing the idea which he described as ‘lofty’

when implemented.

For the sixth day running, the labour leaders have been engaging the state government in a serious faceoff which led to the arrest of seven of them and their subsequent detention for four days in Agodi prisons.

Angered by this development, the national leadership on Monday directed the state chapter to begin indefinite strike action to press home their demands for the payment of arrears of salaries owed the workforce and stoppage of the planned privatisation of the public education in the state among other

Kogi Assembly Crises: House Summons Bello over Involvement in Escalation

sundry issues.

The governor, while speaking at the rescheduled stakeholders’ meeting held at the House of Chiefs, Parliamentary Building, Secretariat, Ibadan, said he took responsibility for whatever might have transpired and the misgivings that arose on the issue.

According to him, the government erred by not facilitating a pre-stakeholders’ meeting ahead of the enlarged meeting which was disrupted by the workers, stating he had expected the officials of the Ministry of Education to have addressed that.

He stated further that the proposed N250, 000 requested of

individuals interested in partnering the government in running the schools was also done in error To cap it, he said publishing the notice and calling on interested private partners in the media before inviting stakeholders for a meeting was a mistake.

While taking responsibility for all the errors and misgivings on the issue, he then asked for the forgiveness of all the stakeholders.

He said: “We made three mistakes instead of one that people think. The Ministry of Education has been one of the most supportive of our administration and we have allowed them run the system

on their own. When we came to the point of inviting partners to run the school, we had thought that they would have called on stakeholders before the enlarged stakeholders meeting was fixed, but they didn’t do it and I also didn’t do it, so it was our mistake.”

While insisting that the government has never contemplated selling off any school, Ajimobi assured that his administration would not abdicate its responsibility of free and quality education for the people of the state.

Declaring their support for government’s intention and plan for education in the state, the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi and

Olubadan of Ibadanland Oba Saliu Adetunji, lauded the governor for coming up with the initiative as a way of rescuing education in the state from collapse.

They also called on education stakeholders not pleased with the government proposal to come up with better ways and ideas on how to move the sector forward through dialogue and consultation.

Other speakers at the event included the Eleruwa of Eruwa, Oba Samuel Adegbola, Bishop Joseph Ajetumobi, Bishop of Diocese of Ibadan North (Anglican Communion) and Chairman, Muslim Community in Oyo State, Alhaji Kunle Sanni.

Damilola Oyedele in Abuja

the Lawal group from legislative proceedings.

The Federal High Court, Abuja Following allegations of his involvement in further escalating recently nullified the impeachment the already protracted crises in the of Lawal and reinstated him as Kogi State House of Assembly, the Speaker.

Ujam noted that the armed House of Representatives yesterday summoned Governor Yahya Bello. men were alleged to be officers The governor, who has defied the of the Nigerian Army, and were resolution of the National Assembly sent to displace the police officers on the take over by the House stationed at the state assembly to of assembly has been accused maintain law and order.

“They (military) took over the of patronising five out of the 25 members of the state assembly, by security of the assembly complex providing security and funding for and led the five members allegedly loyal to the Governor to the House them to seat illegally.

Bello was fingered in the for legislative business in defiance protracted crises which led to of the resolution of the National the impeachment of the Speaker, Assembly and in disregard of Hon. Jimoh Lawal, by five out of the judgement of the Federal 25 members, who then declared High Court, Abuja,” he said.

The lawmaker expressed Hon. Imam as Speaker.

The National Assembly had worry that the crises rocking declared the impeachment illegal the state assembly could and passed a resolution taking over result in anarchy if allowed L-R:Director,TradePromotionandInternationalRelations,LagosChamberofCommerceandIndustry(LCCI),Mr.DeleAlimi; AmbassadorofSwitzerlandto the assembly in line with Section 16 to continue.

Nigeria, Eric Mayoraz; President, LCCI, Mrs. Nike Akande; Consul General of Switzerland in Nigeria, Mr. Yves Nicolet; and Director General, LCCI, Mr. Muda The House therefore set Yusuf,duringabusinessmeetinginLagos...recently (4) of the constitution. By the take over, Bello was required to send the up a panel headed by the State’s 2016 Appropriation Bill, and Majority Leader, Hon. Femi list of nominees for Commissioners Gbajabiamila, over the matter.

The lawmakers also to the House of Representatives.

The governor however deified summoned the Chief of Army the resolution, and has continued to Staff, Lt-Gen. Tukur Buratai, to deal with the Imam led group who explain why the army is involved in recently passed the Appropriation perpetuating illegality and impunity at the detriment of the people and its environs were agog with fortunes of not only Cross River Bill and approved the nominees at the state assembly.

Bassey Inyang in Calabar Several of the lawmakers were you claim to represent. We are economic activities. So, you can and its people but also the economy for commissioners.

At plenary yesterday the federal visibly angry during the debate on The Obong of Calabar, Edidem endowed with a large chunk of imagine what will happen if the of the entire nation.

“The superhighway is a bankable lawmakers declared the passage the matter, and some called for Okpo Okon Abasi Otu V, Senator forest cover that stretches up to seaport and the superhighway project, it is an absolute winner. the initiation of impeachment Florence Ita-Giwa, Senator Gershom the Camerouns, so opening up projects become operational.” and approval as illegal.

Speaking in similar vein, Yes, it is an ambitious project but Hon. Chukwuemeka Ujam, proceedings against the governor. Bassey and other prominent a small portion to bring about Hon. Ali Isa (Gombe) argued from Cross River State have development to the state as well Ita-Giwa said the superhighway because it is a bankable project, in a motion sponsored as matter of urgent national importance, that since the National Assembly urged the Federal Ministry of as make the people feel a sense has the potential of changing the we will not be funding it from our lamented that on May 31, 2016, is the legislative House of Kogi Environment to expedite action on of belonging and the impact of economic landscape of the state balance sheet. It is to be handled masked armed men invaded that State, ”we can begin a process to the approval of the Environmental this administration should not and lamented that bad politics and with investors’ fund,” Bassey hinted.

He said the project should not premises of the state assembly stop impeach the governor.”

Impact Assessment (EIA) for be stalled for whatever reasons.” ethnicity were being introduced to warrant any petition from the Faulting claims that the 260km kill the project. the construction of the state’s “Honestly, it is unfortunate international NGOs, stressing that superhighway will impinge on the 260-kilomtre superhighway.

USAF to Hold Seminar for Business This was even as they state’s vast forest cover, Abasi Otu that people are playing politics rather than embarking on petition separately decried the activities said: “As far as I am concerned, with a project as massive as the writing against such laudable Enthusiasts in Nigeria of some local and foreign non- the construction will not distort superhighway. They should not project, the NGOs and other persons organisations conservation as more trees will undermine a project that will be fighting against the actualization of USAF Global Business entrepreneurship, translate into governmental (NGOs) believed to be working be planted to replace the few of great benefit to the people. Even the project should go into dialogue Development, a United States-based success.

Victoria Adigun, owner of US- against the commencement of the trees that will be taken off in the in America and other advanced with the state government to have organization, will hold a seminar course of construction. This will countries, when they undertake a better appreciation of the matter. based Ovacom Media and media state’s superhighway. in Lagos on June 18.

Validating Bassey’s position, Accusing the NGOs of playing also boost conservation effort of massive projects, large area of land The seminar, with the theme: consultant to the organisers of the ‘An Evening with the World’s Most event, said in a statement that it petty politics with a project as the government because people is always cleared. Governor Ben one-time member of the defunct Forward Thinking Innovators,’ is one event Nigerians, especially massive as the superhighway that will have access to the forest as Ayade is an environmentalist, who is Provincial Ruling Council (PRC), passionate about the environment. So Maj. Gen. Edward Unimna (rtd), would be held at the Sheraton young entrepreneurs would not will add value to the lives of Cross it is the practice globally.”

According to the monarch, “The he will not engage on any project that said: “The superhighway is a very want to miss.

Riverians, the royal father urged Hotels, Ikeja, Lagos.

“You do not want to miss out the federal government not to superhighway and Bakassi deep will be counter-productive to the wonderful project that will actually Seasoned speakers at the seminar would offer life-changing contents on this dynamic, life-changing pander to the narrow interest of seaport are the best things that environment and the people,” open up the state to far greater prosperity that would be highly to help empower participants and event. I can assure many of our a few collaborators who do not have ever happened to this state Ita-Giwa said.

Similarly, the senator representing beneficial to the people of Cross because these projects will open it activate their dreams. USAF Global compatriots that speakers are to be mean well for the state.

Okon Abasi Otu, who advised up economically and Cross River Cross River Southern senatorial River State.

Business Development’s mission is drawn from a group of seasoned “It is a project that is for the district, Senator Gershom Bassey, to reshape the future of education professionals who will be offering politicians and ethnic jingoists to will be better off.”

Otu who further highlighted the maintained that when completed, overall interests of Cross Riverians and entrepreneurship, to develop tips needed to empower participants see the superhighway beyond political and ethnic lines, said: benefits of the superhighway, said: “I the superhighway and the Bakassi and Nigerians, including Chadians those who aspire to become the to actualise their dreams.”

USAF is a body that provides “When it comes to issues of recall when some ships laden with Deep Seaport have the capacity and and Nigeriens who would use the next world ambassadors to lead with confidence and intellect leadership guidance and business development, party line or ethnic used vehicle birthed in Calabar for the magic wand to aggressively road to evacuate their goods from grouping should not be promoted three months, the whole Calabar and positively change the economic the Bakassi Deep seaport.” and to also make education and techniques of success.

BUSINESS MEETING

Obong of Calabar, Ita-Giwa, Others Seek Quick EIA Approval for Superhighway

WEDNESDAY JUNE 8, 2016 • T H I S D AY

54

NEWSEXTRA

FG to Complete Lagos-Ibadan, PH-Calabar Rail Projects in 2018 Says national transport commission bill in progress

Gboyega Akinsanmi The federal government yesterday disclosed that it would complete the Lagos-Ibadan segment of the Lagos-Kano rail project and the Port Harcourt-Calabar wing of Lagos-Calabar coastal rail project before the end of 2018.

It also revealed that a bill seeking to establish the National Transport Commission had scaled through the second reading in the National Assembly, noting that the bill would soon be ready.

The Minister of Transport, Hon. Rotimi Amaechi, said this at the first Lagos Traffic Radio lecture series held at the LTV complex, Agidingbi, noting that the mission

of President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration “is to establish a safe, efficient, affordable and seamless intermodal transport system.”

The lecture, which was organised under a theme, ‘Migrating Workforce: the Challenges of Mass Transportation,’ also featured the Lagos State Commissioner for Transportation, Dr. Ekundayo Mobereola, Corp Marshal of Federal Roads Safety Corps (FRSC), Dr. Oyeyemi Boboye and former Commissioner for Transportation in the state, Prof.

Bamidele Badejo, among others.

At the lecture, the minister disclosed that the federal government was working “to

complete the Lagos-Ibadan segment of the Lagos-Kano railway in two and half years. In another two and half years, we will try and complete the Port Harcourt-Calabar segment of the Lagos-Calabar rail project.”

By the time rail projects are completed, the minister explained that it would largely help those who could not afford the rent in Lagos “to live in Ibadan. Already, due to the Kaduna-Abuja railway, workers in Abuja have begun to relocate to other northern states and

resume to Abuja daily to do their business.”

Amaechi also spoke on different transport-related bills that the federal government had sent to the National Assembly, citing the National Transport Commission bill and the Nigeria Railway Corporation bill.

The minister emphasised the significance of railway to the national economy, noting that the best form of mass movement “is through rail. The Kaduna-Abuja rail line will move 380 persons in one hour. We believe in the multi-modal

system of transportation.”

He lamented the menace of passengers hanging on the rail, disclosing that he had directed the authorities of the Nigerian Railway Corpration “to enforce the regulation that prohibits hanging on the moving trains.

“When passengers hanging on the moving trains die, no one will question the passengers. Rather, they will complain that the government was not proactive in protecting the lives of its citizens,” the minister said.

He explained the reason Lagos

often experiences gridlocks was due “to the lack of roads. How many times do you see traffic in Abuja?

The reason was that it had the network of road. There is need for the construction of more connecting bridges across the state.”

He also pointed out the plan of the federal government “to establish a National Shipping Line. It will be funded by the private sector. It will also be managed by the private sector. We are also planning the concessioning of Lagos, Kano, Port Harcourt, Abuja and Enugu airports.”

Cassava Enhancement: Researchers Commences Establishment Trials in Nigeria,Tanzania Crusoe Osagie The African Cassava Agronomy Initiative (ACAI) Project has established 137 limiting nutrient trials, and 70 intercrop trials in a bid to crack the agronomy of cassava, according to a 5-month progress report on the project.

A breakdown of the work done so far indicates that 20 limiting nutrient trials have been established in Nigeria and 117 in Tanzania.

For the intercrop trials, 29 cassava/ maize trials have been established in Nigeria, and 41 cassava/sweet potato trials in Tanzania.

Project Leader for ACAI,Dr. Abdulai Jalloh, said the trials would help researchers answer key questions relating to cassava agronomy.

“Understanding the agronomy of cassava is a crucial step towards maximizing the genetic gain of the root crop,” Jalloh said.

The ACAI project plans 667 trials in both Nigeria and Tanzania across the four use cases directly associated with field experimentation.

These are as follows: fertilizer recommendation (295); best planting

practices (150); intercropping (202), and staggered planting (20).

The trials so far established represent about 44 per cent of the targeted total number of trials.

The progress report shows that across countries, establishment of trials has been higher in Tanzania (82 per cent) compared to Nigeria (26 per cent). This is mainly due to the varying rainy season and farming systems in the two countries. The rains for the first planting during which most of the planting has been done in Tanzania are relatively earlier (March/April), while the main planting season for cassava in Nigeria is April/ May. The remaining trials will be planted by the end of May/ June in Nigeria while the rest of the planting in Tanzania has been shifted to the second planting in October/November. In general, the trials will be established within the window of planting by the farmers in both countries.

IITA Director for Central Africa, Dr. Bernard Vanlauwe, said: “We hope that more trials will be set up as we enter June when rains would have steadied in Nigeria.”

Ex-Indian Minister Asks His Country to Ban Nigerians A former minister in India, Ravi Naik, has asked his country’s authorities to impose a ban on Nigerians.

According to The Times of India, Naik made this statement while speaking with journalists. “The central government should ban Nigerians,” he reportedly said at a press conference.

Referring to Nigerians as “negroes”, the politician accused them of causing trouble “everywhere.”

“Even the Aam Aami Party leaders had a fight with Nigerians in Bengaluru,” he said.

“They create problems everywhere… We do not want Nigerian tourists.” He accused some Nigerians in Goa, a state in the Asian country, of masquerading as students, demanding a probe into their activities.

Kiran Kandolkar, Goa

spokesman, has demanded an apology from Naik over the controversial statement.

“Ravi Naik should tender an apology. The statements made

by Naik, according to The Cable, are insulting and uncalled for,” he said yesterday. India is one of the countries which President Muhammadu Buhari has visited since he came to power.

During the trip, the Nigerian leader met with the country’s prime minister and other top government officials. Both countries also pledged to strengthen their bilateral relationship.

Buhari also met with the Nigerian community there and assured them of his government’s commitment to their well-being.

Though Nigerians are used to being criticised all over the world, disparaging remarks like that of Naik is not a common occurrence.

A PERFECT HOST

L-R: Vice Chancellor, Babcock University, Professor Ademola Tayo; Deputy Vice Chancellor, Management Services, Professor Sunday Owolabi; and Ogun State Governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun, when principal officers of the university paid a courtesy visit on the governor at his Oke Mosan, Abeokuta office...yesterday

Edo Guber: 490,000 PermanentVoters Cards Unclaimed in Edo, Says REC Obaseki challenges Ogiemwonyi over allegation of purchase of PVCs Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City Ahead of the September 18, 2016 governorship election in Edo State, scheduled by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the Resident Electoral Commissioner for the state, Mr. Sam Olumekun, has disclosed that over 490,000 Permanent Voters Cards (PVC’s) representing about 30 per cent of registered voters still remain unclaimed out of the 1.7 million registered voters and urged affected persons to take advantage of the ongoing registration to collect them.

The Edo REC warned against multiple voter registration and noted that such registration will be detected and by a special software in their system which would render such registration invalid.

Addressing journalists on the preparedness of INEC towards the conducts of the governorship party’s primaries and the September 10 governorship elections in the state, Olumekun, also disclosed that smart card readers would be used for the governorship election, clarifying that the Supreme Court pronouncement never asked INEC not to use card readers in elections.

He stated: “We are aware that some people have not been able

to collect their PVC’s, INEC will use this period of registration to distributes the old PVC’s that may not have been collected.

Those who have registered and yet to collect their PVC’s should therefore check and collect their cards. Let me state categorically that those who have registered before should avoid multiple registrations as doing so would entail their names been deleted from the voters register, we have a software that will help us delete such names.”

Promising that INEC would deliver a credible and transparent election he declared: “As we prepare for the 2016 election in Edo State, the challenge before us is to sustain a correct political orientation anchored on the interest of the vast majority of the people and not a few people. The environment of politics and election must improve against the back-drop of what we have seen in the immediate past in some neighbouring state.

“Edo must stand out as a people with deep and rich culture of which they are proud and committed. The quality and moral authority of any beneficiary of election coming up later this year will depend on how credible the election is, otherwise such a beneficiary may not be

accorded the due respect. INEC has repeatedly promised Nigerians that it will continue improve the election system and processes to ensure maximum returns in election management and not recent tide of inconclusive election” Responding to questions at the briefing over allegations by some APC aspirants that PVC’s belonging to delegates were been sold, the commissioner said INEC as a body has no power to do anything about it.

He however hoped that such complaints would form part of issues to be looked into during the review of the electoral act.

Meanwhile,amemberoftheHouse of the Representatives representing Etsako Federal Constituency of Edo State, Philip Shuaibu, and the Coordinator, Godwin Obaseki Campaign Organisation in Edo North, Abbass Braimah, have challenged a governorship aspirant of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Dr. Chris Ogiemwonyi, to provide the video evidence where PVCs were being purchased from party members with a view to manipulate the June 18 governorship primaries in favour of Obaseki.

They also described as unfortunate, the claim by Ogiemwonyi that the state

House of Assembly was shut down for its members to give support to Obaseki, saying that “Ogiemwonyi is displaying ignorance of happenings in the state, reminding him that the House of Assembly was on recess.”

Ogiemwonyi had accused Shauibu of meeting with APC delegates and giving them the sum of N10,000 each with a view to purchasing their PVCs. Reacting, Shuaibu said: “I am surprised that he will be making such an allegation. When I heard it I was like no he is more intelligent than to even think such thing exist.

But it is like I over rated his intellect, he has shown he is not the person we thought he was. If a person that wants to be a governor of a state do not know the difference between PVC and party card in a primary then it is unfortunate.

Also in his reaction, Braimah who also was a former member of the House of Representatives, said “I am surprised and shocked with his allegation. Let me make it clear that I was present in that meeting and I challenge him to produce the video evidence he said he has to back his claim otherwise the party should discipline him for this cheap blackmail, embarrassment and harassment.

WEDNESDAY JUNE 8, 2016 • T H I S D AY

55

NEWSEXTRA

$1.6bn Judgment Debt: Justice Ministry Not Involved, Says Adoke Ejiofor Alike The immediate past Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Mr. Mohammed Adoke (SAN) has denied his involvement in an alleged $1.6 billion judgment debt scam, saying his ministry was not involved as the Federal Executive Council (FEC) had approved decentralisation of judgment debts.

In a statement yesterday, Adoke said his initial reaction to

a publication by an online news medium on the allegation was to dismiss it as the handiwork of mischief-makers who were hell bent on pitting him against anti-corruption and law enforcement agencies, especially the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in order to instigate or precipitate spurious investigations against his person to settle personal scores.

“I was however advised otherwise particularly as federal

Pensioners Collapse as Bayelsa Continues Workers’Verification Exercise Emmanuel Addeh in Yenagoa Three pensioners in Yenagoa, the ayelsa State capital yesterday, collapsed during the ongoing verification exercise to clean up the state’s huge payroll.

Thousands of the retirees who trooped out for the exercise, it was learnt, are being owed eight months arrears by the state government.

The affected pensioners, who were immediately rushed to the Government House clinic, are said to be responding to treatment.

Governor Seriake Dickson had while inaugurating the verification committee, asked its members to thoroughly authenticate the real workers in the state and possibly visit those who were too old and sickly in their homes to conduct the exercise.

The Chairperson, Bayelsa Pensions Board, Mrs Jane Aleke, who was supervising the exercise when the incident occurred, told journalists that the three pensioners were already receiving medical attention.

Aleke said the verification exercise was not to inconvenience the retirees but to enable the state to have the actual figure of the pensioners.

She appealed to the retirees to be calm and promised that every pensioner in the state would be

captured in the exercise.

“This is about management of wealth and you know in paying them, the state government cannot just begin to pay with a guess work or estimated numbers, we cannot do that as a government.

“We are ready to reach all the local governments in the state, we have started with Yenagoa; for those of them, who are sick and cannot walk, we will definitely go to their houses,” she said.

Some of the aggrieved retirees condemned the exercise which they described as too tedious and burdensome.

“This treatment being meted to pensioners is inhumane and despicable and at the same time insensitive. Indeed it is diversionary, we want our monies. ‘’It is the same people in government that aid the so-called ghost pensioners, we are not against verification but for God’s sake, they have owed us for eight months.

“There should be a sense of urgency, we are not begging for charity, we have sacrificed our youthful years; they should just pay us,” Ebikake Davies, one of the pensioners lamented.

Some of the pensioners had staged a peaceful protest last February 2016 which went awry when the protesters clashed with some youths near the government house.

Ondo: Strike Bites Harder as Refuse Litters Major Roads James Sowole in Akure Fears of looming epidemics have gripped residents of Akure sequel to heaps of refuses that littered several streets and road in major towns in Ondo State as the strike embarked upon by workers in the state government entered second week.

The two unions, Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) had last Wednesday ordered public workers to embark on indefinite strike for the failure of the state government to pay their five months salaries.

Sequel to the strike which had paralysed activities in government offices and all public works, things were not the same in the state and among the residents.

THISDAY monitoring of the effects of the strike revealed mounting heaps of refuse on the ever cleaned Arakale and the popular Oyemekun/Adesida Roads, particularly at market areas on the two major roads.

The situation occurred as a result of the action of traders who packed refuses from their shops and drop same on the road median.

Prior to the strike, workers of the state Waste Management Authority usually pack these refuse on daily basis at night after the daily trading activities.

Concerned that their refuse could disturb them if allowed to remain near their shops and stalls, traders brought the wastes to the road median.

The strike has also taken toll on health services in the state as all government health facilities were not attending to patients because the action was total.

Relations of patients have evacuated them to alternative places as nurses, doctors and other health workers are not on hand to offer their services.

The request by the government that labour leaders should allow skeletal services in health facilities fell on the deaf ears of the labour leaders.

government’s current war against corruption has unwittingly created an enabling environment for mischief, harassment, fraud and revenge to thrive through malicious petitions against perceived enemies with the sole aim of disparaging them and bringing them to public odium. While I cannot decipher the motivations of the Civil Society Network Against Corruption (CSNAC) that has reportedly petitioned the EFCC “to investigate a court judgment obtained by the 774 local government councils in the country, ordering the federal government to pay them $3.188 billion and the diversion of $1.6billion” and their antecedents, I am however surprised that they could make such weighty allegation without any factual basis. I wish to state categorically that I was not at any time involved in the alleged diversion of the sum of $1.6billion paid pursuant to the judgment of the court or any other sums of money,” he explained.

Adoke recalled that when he assumed office in 2010, one of the

reforms measures he initiated was the decentralisation of payment of judgment debts, which was before then domiciled in the Federal Ministry of Justice.

He said the step he took became pertinent in view of allegations of collusion, connivance, bribery and other acts of corruption that had trailed the judgment debt payment system that he had inherited.

“I, therefore presented a memorandum on the issue to the FEC which considered the reasons I had articulated and approved that the payment of judgment debts be decentralised (meaning that henceforth, the various MDAs will be responsible for payment of judgment debts that they were primarily liable from their budgetary allocations),” he added.

Adoke said the objective of the decentralisation was to make the MDAs take active interest in cases that they were involved, ensure robust defence to such actions and instill transparency and accountability in the system.

According to him, by the

operation of the policy, the Office of the Attorney General of the Federation was only a nominal party to suits initiated against MDAs including suit number FHC/ABJ/129/2013, where the Ministry of Finance was the Primary/Principal Party.

Adoke added that this notwithstanding, when enforcement proceedings commenced, he wrote to the Ministry of Finance to ascertain whether they had appealed the judgment.

He noted that the ministry’s response to his enquiry was that they did not appeal and had no intention of appealing the judgment.

The former minister said it was at this stage that he advised that steps be taken to reach an amicable settlement that could guarantee a win-win outcome, adding that this was the advisory role he could play under the prevailing policy.

“It should be appreciated that the Federal Ministry of Justice was not involved in the payment of the alleged judgment sum and could not have been involved since the

Ministry of Finance was primarily liable. I could therefore not have been involved in the alleged diversion. It is instructive to note that the publication detailed the names of individuals and corporate entities to which monies were allegedly paid. I am not mentioned as an individual beneficiary and therefore find it mischievous and malicious that my name featured prominently in the aforementioned headline,” Adoke said.

He urged his well wishers and other Nigerians who have expressed concern over the publication to be rest assured that he was not a party to any unwholesome act or diversion of public funds as alleged.

According to him, the EFCC has no reason to investigate him on the strength of this frivolous petition.

Adoke further reiterated that in all his public service, his only motivation was the desire to serve his fatherland and contribute his quota to the development of this great country.

KEEP THE AWARDS COMING

Head, Corporate Communications, Premium Pension Limited, Mr. Paddy Ezeala (right), receiving the third edition of BusinessToday Online Pension CompanyoftheYearAwardonbehalfofthecompanyfromtherepresentativeoftheDirectorGeneral,NigerianInsurersAssociation(NIA),BoseAgbogun, attheawardceremonyheldinLagos...recently

Lori-Ogbebor Wants Militants to Halt Pipelines Bombing, Blames Interventionist Agencies, Clark for Attacks Sunday Okobi Rights activist and Itsekiri high chief, Mrs. Rita Lori-Ogbebor, has called on the members of the Niger Delta Avengers (NDA) to stop the destruction of oil installations in the region, adding that interventionist agencies in the region should be held responsible for failing to make judicious use of funds appropriated for the region’s development.

Lori-Ogbebor, who lamented that the renewed militancy would only exacerbate the environmental and socioeconomic problems in the region, stated that only the cessation of hostilities by the militants would pave the way for peace.

She told select journalists in Lagos that neither the present government nor its predecessor should be blamed

for the resurgence of militancy, blaming political leaders in the region whom she noted failed to make use of the gains of past interventions to develop the region.

According to her, “The failure of interventionist agencies to have a focus, to have a plan and implement them in addition with high degree of greed got us to this level.

“These militants are young men who are being used and who have not been given proper direction. It is the same leaders who embezzle money meant for the development of the region that instigate these boys to go and destroy. I have never made any mistake about my belief that Niger Delta leaders are the cause of the present crisis. They are not genuine. They should go to other states especially in western states and see what the

leaders are doing but that is not the case with Niger Delta states.

“Those of us who produce oil should go back to the drawing table and look at ourselves and ask ourselves if we want to really develop the region or our homes.

“After that, the federal government can meet us, but nobody is going to stampede us into destroying of pipelines because that will take us back to where we were.”

Lori-Ogbebor, who is also a business woman in Lagos, stated: “When we know what happened to past funds made available to the Niger Delta ministry, NDDC, Amnesty Programme and other interventionist agencies, then we can advise the government on what to do, but when there is nothing to justify the huge allocations, would it be right for the government to start pouring

money into the hands that will squander it? And when there is no money they will turn around to break pipelines.

“I am calling on Chief Edwin Clark to call his people to order because he is the leader of his people. And he was close to the President Goodluck Jonathan government. They cannot continue to be threatening us all the time. We had our son there who brought out the money for development but we shot ourselves on the leg. What I am appealing to all of them now is for the ‘Avengers’ militants to put down their guns and when they do that, we will go in because it is our home. The truth is that we cannot continue carrying guns because there is nowhere violence has solved any problem because the federal government is bound to listen.”

56

WEDNESDAY JUNE 8, 2016 • T H I S D AY

NEWSEXTRA

Southerners, Not Northerners are Marginalised under Buhari, Say Yoruba Elders Ademola Babalola in Ibadan

reserves below $27billion from about $32billion a year ago and fleeing of foreign investors from The recent statement credited to Nigeria in droves; among other the Northern Elders’ Forum (NEF) state of the nation issues that are complaining of marginalisation not palatable to the hearing.

On the NEF’s claim, the of the North through the instrumentality of the 2016 budget elders in Yorubaland stated has attracted criticisms from the “This impetuous claim naturally provoked us into taking a detailed Yoruba elders.

The elders under the umbrella look at the 2016 budget capital of the Yoruba Unity Forum at a appropriations, and to our press conference held at Premier amazement and consternation, Hotel, Ibadan and addressed by we found that just as your Reverend Emmanuel Bolanle appointments have unduly Gbonigi, critically analysed the favoured the North, the capital one year administration of All appropriations in the budget were Progressives Congress (APC) even more annoyingly skewed under President Muhammadu towards the same North. The Buhari and returned a verdict President needs to be reminded that ‘the President needs to be that he was elected by all reminded that he was elected by Nigerians, to serve all Nigerians.

“A glance at the table showing all Nigerians to serve all Nigerians and not a particular ethnic region’. key appointments made so far Gbonigi, the Chairman and underscores the extent of the leader of the forum at a well marginalization of the South. The -attended conference which summary of appointment shows has in attendance his deputy, that the North West which is the Arbishop Ayo Ladigbolu, his Vice President zone has 26 positions Chairman who also doubles as the or 44 per cent of all appointments Yoruba Think Thank Chairman, made by the President so far, Senator Femi Okurounmu, a North East has 9 positions or former minister, Professor Tunde 15 per cent , North Central has Adeniran, Kofoworola Akerele 6 positions or 10 per cent , South Bucknor, Princess Bisi Sangodoyin, West has 7 positions or 11. 8 per Mrs. Bolajoko Doherty, Chief cent , South South has 8 positions Emmanuel Adelana amongst or 13.56 per cent and the South others, said “Nigerians are East 3 positions or 5 per cent. shocked that a president who This bring the total for the North prided himself as belonging to no to 41 positions or 69.5 per cent one and belonging to everyone while the South is left with 18 will conceive a policy clearly positions or 30.5 per cent .”

The Yoruba Unity Forum, as designed to favour a particular ethnic group which also happens the name suggests, is an umbrella forum for all Yorubas, irrespective to be his ethnic group.”

The eight page speech examined of political affiliation noted that and centred upon how Buhari Buhari took over power at a administration had impacted on time Nigeria was confronting the people; the anti-corruption three major challenges; namely, fight; his frequent foreign travels; Insecurity, Declining price of crude increase in the pump price of oil and Worsening economic petroleum products; the gross indices was however quick to domestic product on GDP growth; add that “It is also pertinent to inflation rate which had soared to note that President Buhari came 13.7%; increase in the number of into power with an unparalleled unemployed persons to the recent euphoria in the history of Nigeria.

They reminded the president sacking of many workers in the financial sector; steady decline in that, “expectations were unbridled stock exchange; collapse of daily as the change Nigerians clamoured crude oil to just 1.4mbpd; drop in and voted for finally seemed to power generation; drop in external be on the horizon.

Activist Blames Over-indulgence of Ex-militants for N’Delta Crisis Emmanuel Addeh in Yenagoa A Niger Delta activist and Coordinator, Concerned Niger Delta Leaders, Chief Mike Loyibo, yesterday blamed part of the current crisis in the Niger Delta on the excessive pampering of ex-militants to the detriment of the hardworking youths of the region.

Loyibo, who spoke in Tuomo, near Bayelsa State, during an empowerment programme, which he organised, described the action of the groups destroying the country’s critical assets as acts of sabotage and criminality against the Nigerian state and the Niger Delta.

“It (the crisis) is a result of how the previous administration was petting militants. Sometimes, these boys feel like they are the vice-president of Nigeria.

The military and other security agencies are at their beck and call, like a General is coming.

“When you show bad example that it pays to carry guns more than those who soaked garri to go to school, then there is a problem. You

are showing people that education doesn’t pay, but guns do,’’ he said.

He disclosed that the leaders and elders in the region were sad about the activities of the ex-militants and called for a long-lasting solution to the lingering crisis.

“As elders and leaders, we have spoken against the Avengers and other economic criminals. If you have genuine reasons, you don’t need to break pipelines.

“However, though Nigeria is one, but the Niger Delta also needs to be developed, because it is critical to the country. Without the Niger Delta, Nigeria cannot operate smoothly.

“The leaders we have produced have been self-centred, they have refused to even develop the area, and I am not talking about Hausas, even our people,’’ he argued.

While urging the dissident groups in the region to sheathe their swords and engage in negotiations with the federal government, he called on the government to continue the amnesty programme in the interest of peace.

The last 365 days have indeed been momentous for Nigeria.

While the President has made significant progress towards routing out the Boko Haram insurgents and restoring peace in the North East, centres of various other insurgencies have sprouted in other parts of the country, like the South South and the South East, not to mention the new terror posed by the rampaging Fulani herdsmen. This sectionally centred insurgencies are bound to continue to arise from time to time with our present over centralised, quasiunitary structure of governance.

This is why well meaning, respectable Nigerians have agitated for decades and continue to agitate for a restructuring of the country to achieve true fiscal and political federalism and to enable each section to mobilise and develop its own resources.

The text read further as follows: “It is also for this reason that many Nigerians welcomed the 2014 National Conference.

The President’s recent remarks

therefore that he will consign the recommendations of the Conference to the archives, and the present posture of his party against restructuring show that they are out of step with progressive thinking in the country.

“Restructuring of the nation will eliminate most of our recurrent problems... We appreciate the necessity of the President’s foreign trips as a platform to seek international assistance on the war against terror and to attract foreign investment to Nigeria at a time when foreign direct investment in Nigeria continues to drop sharply.

However we question the frequency of these trips. The President has travelled overseas in the last twelve months to almost 30 countries, including multiple trips to some of them. Nigerians at this moment of economic and social crisis need to have their President stay more at home to attend to pressing domestic problems. They will also appreciate if he would reduce his penchant for making important policy pronouncements concerning the nation while engaged with foreign audiences.

He should show greater regards for

Nigerians who are first and foremost, his primary constituency.

“On the recent increase of petrol prices to N145 per litre, while we recognise the need for a partial deregulation of the downstream sector of the petroleum industry, we are appalled by the insensitive manner in which the issue was handled. There should have been prior consultations with all stake holders and the various palliative measures which the government intends to adopt to cushion the harsh effects of the sudden price increase should have been made known to the public. With the new deregulation policy, a new agency solely to regulate the downstream sector will now be required to replace the PPPRA. “The role of the agency shall be similar to that of the Nigerian Communication Commission which does not fix call rates for networks but only regulates the industry.

“The nefarious activities of armed Fulani herdsmen across the Middle Belt and Southern

Nigeria now constitute a most potent threat to national security.

These armed Fulani herdsmen abuse the hospitality of their host communities by attacking and killing innocent people, raping girls and women, burning houses, and destroying crops and farmlands.

“The lackadaisical attitude of government and security agencies in confronting these criminals who roam the streets of Nigeria with automatic weapons in broad daylight send mixed signals and may compel citizens to take all necessary measures to defend themselves. We are very unhappy that the President has remained silent even in the face of the heinous crimes committed by this group such as the Agatu massacre in Benue state and the Enugu Massacre just to mention a few. When the President eventually thought it fit to comment, his remarks were without conviction. This silence has been interpreted to mean that these armed Fulani herdsmen may be receiving sympathy from the highest official quarters.

GET TOGETHER

L-R: Out-going President, Lagos Business School Alumni Association, Mr. Wole Oshin; in-coming President, Mrs. Bola Adesola, and Globacom’s Head, Corporate Sales, Mr. Kamaldeen Shonibare, at the Glo-sponsored LBS Alumni Association President’s Dinner in Lagos....recently

Bayelsa Doctors to Down Tools over Unpaid Salaries Emmanuel Addeh in Yenagoa Doctors in Bayelsa State yesterday vowed to embark on a ‘total and indefinite’ strike from June 27 to protest the government’s inability to pay their salaries for about five months.

The doctors under the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Bayelsa State branch, also apologised to the patients in various hospitals in the state for the hardship the industrial action would cause them, noting that they could no longer work without remuneration.

Chairman of the NMA in the state, Dr Israel Jeremiah, who spoke at the association’s secretariat in Yenagoa, particularly expressed sadness that House Officers, whom he described as the youngest and most vulnerable members of the medical profession, were undergoing untold pains.

The body noted that the ongoing non-payment of salaries, even to civil servants in the state had resulted

in reduced hospital attendance and inability of patients to buy drugs, arguing that residents have resorted to patronising quacks.

“Despite the untold hardship occasioned by this development, our members have kept faith with our Hippocratic Oath, continued to render services and ensured that Bayelsa people get the needed healthcare.

“The continued non-payment of salaries has adversely affected healthcare delivery in the state.

Hospital attendance has markedly reduced; patients can no longer procure drugs, pay for tests or pay their bills on discharge from the hospital.

“The consequences are that Bayelsa people will resort to selftreatment, patronise quacks and in the worst case scenario opt to die at home,’’ Dr Jeremiah said.

The doctors further contended that the refusal of the government to pay salaries was a ready template for anti-social upheaval, psychiatric

manifestations, especially depression, suicide, self-denial, self-pity robbery and violence.

Flanked by other members of the Executive of the NMA in the state, the association’s chairman noted that after a thorough analysis of the situation, doctors in the state would as from the date, join three other affiliates to embark on the industrial action.

The NMA aligned with the state branch of the National Association of Government, General, Medical and Dental Practitioners(NAGGMDP), Association of Resident Doctors, Niger Delta University teaching Hospital, which had already notified the government of a strike action.

Aside the listed associations, the NMA said that the Medical and Dental Consultants Association of Nigeria, NDUTH, Okolobiri has also written to the Bayelsa State government, issuing a 21-day ultimatum if their salaries are not paid.

The doctors added that they were

dismayed that the NMA in the state was not invited to the negotiation between the organised labour and the Bayelsa State Government .

“Since we are not part of Labour, (Nigeria Labour Congress), and the trade Union Congress (TUC), the agreement between labour and the government is not binding on us,’’ the NMA said.

The body refuted reports by the NLC and TUC in the state, alleging that House Officers had been paid their January salaries, noting that doctors have not have not been paid their January and even subsequent months’ salaries.

The NMA Bayelsa, posits that one has to be alive and have the requisite financial wherewithal to execute his job properly. The present situation negates that,’’ the body argued.

While calling for the full payment of outstanding salaries, the NMA dissociated itself from an agreement with organised labour that accepted 50 per cent payment.

WEDNESDAY JUNE 8, 2016 • T H I S D AY

57

CRIME&PUNISHMENT

Assaulted Lawmaker Files N4.4bn Suit as House Committee Concludes Investigation Damilola Oyedele in Abuja A member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Mkrapor Onyemaechi (Delta PDP), has filed a N4.4 billion suit against the Controller General of Prisons, Dr. Peter Ezenwa Expendu, whose aides allegedly assaulted her on April 20, 2016 at the gate of the National Assembly for overtaking his convoy.

The suit was filed before the Federal High Court in Kuje, Federal Capital Territory.

This is as the Chairman of the Committee investigating the incident, Hon. Jagaba Adams Jagaba, disclosed that the report of the investigation was ready and would be laid before the House.

An initial report indicted Idaa Odeh who was fingered by witnesses as having slapped her in the face, and Deputy CG, Shehu Kangiwa who was accused by witnesses as having banged the lawmaker’s vehicle and called her ‘prostitute’ was also indicted by the committee, although he was absent from the hearing.

Following the submission of the report to the House for adoption on April 26, 2016, the lawmakers had directed the committee to hear from Kangiwa, in the spirit of fair hearing.

THISDAY gathered that Kangiwa, and other prison officials have however been lobbying the House through their representatives to ensure that the House report

does not see the light of day.

Speaking with THISDAY in an interview on Monday, Mkrapor confirmed that there had been some lobbying to get her to drop the case, adding that Odeh’s representative in the House had been contacted by his family to appeal to her not to pursue the matter.

“When I enquired, I was told he (Kangiwa) has been heard,” she said.

She noted that the delay to conclude the matter might be due

to the busy schedule of the Deputy Speaker, who considers reports.

“It was about that period that this matter of the budget which was returned happened, and he headed the harmonisation committee, so I know he has been busy,” she added.

Mkrapor disclosed that she has filed a suit in Court to demand justice, as allowing the matter to die would be a disservice to women who suffer different form of abuse every day.

“Yes, people have been talking to me about forgiveness; but I need

to establish that no one should be treated like they do not matter. I am not a lawless person, and I think the law should be obeyed.

“Women are assaulted everyday, we are treated like second class citizens. It would be discouraging to women if I let it die just like that. They would just take abuse quietly, and tell themselves after all it happened to a lawmaker, and nothing happened,” she added.

The Chairman of the Committee on Interior, Hon. Jagaba Adams

Jagaba, in a telephone conversation with THISDAY dispelled fears that the House would be lobbied to drop the matter.

He confirmed that Kangiwa has appeared before the committee, and his statements have been taken.

“In fact we (the committee) met last week. Nobody can lobby me, that is not my style at all, besides she is my colleague. As far as we are concerned some sections of our laws have been violated, and those found guilty must be punished,” Jagaba said.

Army to Raid Cultists’ Hideouts in Rivers, Says Spokesman The 2 Brigade of Nigerian Army, Port Harcourt, yesterday said it would soon raid hideouts of cultists who recently killed soldiers in Rivers.

The spokesman of the Brigade, Capt. Eli Lazarus, told journalists that the spate of killings by cultists was alarming.

He said recent killings by cultists and cult related activities had posed serious security threat to safety of residents and businesses in the state.

According to him, soldiers were killed during a recent mayhem unleashed by cultists in some communities in Ikwerre and Emuoha local government areas of the state.

“In the past few days, cult clashes were recorded with several deaths including our personnel who were part of the team that responded to distress calls in the area.

“Preliminary investigation revealed that these barbaric and condemnable acts were clashes of dominance between Icelanders and other cult groups.

“This is seemingly motivated by the quest for economic advantage suspected to be connected to oil theft and illegal bunkering.

“The viciousness and bestiality displayed by these cultists in killing their rivals have no place in any

civilised society, and as such, they must never be allowed to go unpunished.

“The cultists are hereby warned to surrender their arms and turn away from their evil ways as any such attacks on any community will be met with full military action,” he said.

Lazarus, according to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), said anyone caught belonging to cult group would be dealt with in accordance with the law.

He said youths must be guided to prevent self destruction, adding that parents should closely watch their children and wards to prevent them being wrongly influenced by peer groups.

The army spokesman urged residents to remain calm and go about their lawful activities as security agencies would continue to work assiduously to protect lives and properties in the state.

“Additionally, information leading to the arrest of the perpetrators of these heinous crime and their patrons is solicited from the general public.

“We assure that all information volunteered in this regard will be kept in utmost confidentiality,” he said.

Boyfriend, Accomplice Clamped in Detention over Alleged Teenage Abortion Olakiitan Victor in Ado Ekiti For allegedly aborting pregnancy for an 18-year-old girl, an AdoEkiti Magistrate’s Court on Monday remanded a 21-year-old man, Olarewanju Olorunfemi and a female accomplice, Sadiat Akeem, 18, in prison custody.

The police prosecutor, Sgt. Caleb Leranmo, told the court that the accused committed the offence on May 25 at Ilawe-Ekiti in Ekiti South West Local Government Area of Ekiti State.

He alleged that the accused, who was the boyfriend of the 18-year-old girl, Fumbi Taiwo, and the deceased friend unlawfully murdered her through an abortion

process.

According to him, the accused committed an offence contrary to Section 319 of the Criminal Code, Cap C 16,Laws of the state. 2012.

He added that he had duplicated and sent their case file to the office of the Director of Public Prosecutor (DPP) for legal advice.

The plea of the accused were not taken as their counsel, Mr. Tunde Olayemi sought for a date of adjournment pending the advice of DPP legal advice.

Magistrate Ropo Adegboye consequently ordered the remand of the duo in prison custody till the outcome of DPP advice.

He adjourned the case to June 22 for further hearing.

ARE THESE THE AVENGERS?

Some members of the militant group, Niger Delta Avengers (NDA) and Commander (fourth left) being paraded after their arrest at the Naval Base in Warri....yesterday

Police Dismiss Corporal for Killing, Burying Inspector in Kwara Hammed Shittu in Ilorin

The Kwara State Police Command has dismissed a corporal, Mr. Daramola Tosin, from the Ekiti divisional police post from service for allegedly withdrawing N300,000 from bank account of an inspector, Mr. Lateef Shuaib, killing and burying him in a bush near Osi police station in Ekiti Local Government Area of the state.

The command also arraigned the dismissed officer yesterday at a magistrate’s court in Ilorin.

According to the First Information Report, obtained in Ilorin yesterday, Shuaib’s sister, Mrs. Sherifat Hammed, reported on May 10, 2016 to the Osi Police Station that her brother had not been seen since May 6, 2016.

The FIR further said that Mrs. Hammed also reported that she suspected Tosin, adding that her elder brother had told her that when he gave Tosin his ATM card when he was sick, based on trust, for Tosin to be withdrawing money from his account at UBA on his behalf.

The FIR further quoted Mrs. Hammed as saying that Tosin dishonestly started transferring money from Shuaib’s account, bitby-bit, without the now late inspector’s knowledge and consent and withdrew N300,000.

Part of the FIR said: “Investigation conducted at Criminal Investigation and Intelligence Department, Ilorin

revealed that on May 6 at about 10p.m, while Inspector Lateef Shuaib was defecating inside the bush, very close to the barrack at Osi Police Station, you Daramola Tosin, callously and viciously traced him into the bush and shot him with your AK47 rifle that led to his untimely death and you later buried him inside the bush at the back of Osi Barrack without the knowledge of anybody. You hereby committed the above offences”.

The FIR said the offences were culpable homicide, breach of trust and theft; contrary to Section 221, 312 and 289 of penal code law.

When the case was called, the police prosecutor, Mr. James Odaodu, told the magistrate court presided over by Mr. Nurudeen Adeyanju that the offence of the murder was capital in nature, adding that it was not bailable.

He pleaded with the court to remand the accused in prison custody.

Adeyanju, did not take any plea from the accused but said the magistrate court lacked the jurisdiction to hear the matter as it involved a murder charge, adding that it should be handled by the high court.

The magistrate, however, ordered that the dismissed officer should be remanded at the Federal Prisons, Mandalla in Ilorin and adjourned the case till June 21 for further mention.

Jonathan’s Cousin, Roberts and Wife Arraigned for Alleged $40m Fraud Alex Enumah in Abuja Former President Goodluck Jonathan’s cousin, Roberts Azibaola and his wife, Stella, were yesterday formally arraigned before the Federal High Court in Abuja.

Roberts who had spent 80 days in the custody of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), together with his wife, are being prosecuted over the alleged payment of $40million into their company’s account, One Plus Holdings Nigeria Limited, by the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA).

They pleaded not guilty to the seven-count charge read to them.

However, in a brief ruling, the trial judge, Justice Nnamdi Dimgba, remanded Roberts who is the 1st defendant in the suit in Kuje Prison till today pending the determination of their bail applications.

But his wife was allowed to go home, as the court granted her administrative bail earlier given by the EFCC. Counsel to the 1st defendant, Chief Chris Uche (SAN), urged the court to admit his client to bail on liberal terms, adding that offences which Roberts was charged with were bailable.

“Plea having been fully taken by the defendants, we will like to prepare for trial, and I want to apply for bail for the 1st defendant to enable us

defend him.

“We have filed a motion on notice dated May 24, 2016, and filed on May 27,” Uche stated.

In the bail application which was brought pursuant to Section 36 (5) of the constitution 1999 and Administration of the Criminal Justice Act (ACJA), the defence counsel prayed the court to admit his client to bail in view of the “pains” Roberts had suffered in the custody of the EFCC despite a valid court order admitting him to bail.

In moving the motion, Uche submitted: “The issue of pre-trial bail is at the discretion of the court.

“The alleged offences are not capital offences and are therefore bailable.”

“Roberts had been in the EFCC custody for this alleged offences for over two months for no reason.

“We went to court and an Abuja High Court granted him bail in the some of N10million, but the order was flagrantly disobeyed by the respondent (EFCC).

“When these orders were disobeyed, we wrote the respondent, but they refused to obey the orders.

“Roberts was whisked away to Lagos by EFCC operatives, and then he collapsed in Lagos.

“The facts as they are is that his rights as a citizen have been breached.

Right to bail for a man who is presumed innocent until proven is a constitutional right. The offences are not capital offences,” Uche averred.

WEDNESDAY JUNE 8, 2016 • T H I S D AY

58

CRIME&PUNISHMENT

Senate Bills to Enhance Effective Policing, Crime Control Says 12m motorists in Nigeria use fake insurance certificates Police oppose exit of traffic wardens

Omololu Ogunmade in Abuja The Senate yesterday expressed its commitment to improve effective policing through its decision to pass bills seeking to control crime level and societal ills in the country.

This came as the Nigeria Police yesterday opposed moves by the traffic wardens to be separated from the police and stand as a sole entity, controlling their affairs.

A private member bill had lamented the poor welfare of traffic wardens under the Nigeria Police and sought their separation from it. But the move is not satisfactory to the police.

At one-day public hearing on Traffic Warden Bill and Crime and Criminal Tracking System Bill, Chairman, Senate Committee on Police Affairs, Senator Abu Ibrahim, said the Senate was committed to providing adequate legal framework for effective policing and crime control in our society.

He said: “The bills for discussion today are two. First is the Traffic Warden Bill which seeks to repeal section 59-69 of the Police Act Cap 359 Laws of the federation of Nigeria 1990 and to re-enact the Traffic Warden Service which shall be responsible for the appointment, promotion and discipline of traffic wardens, issuance of certificate of appointment and discharge and for other related matters.

“While the second is, Crime and Criminal Tracking System Bill, which seeks to provide for the design, development, installation and management of a Robust Crime and Criminal Tracking System for the Nigeria Police to enhance national security through

automation of criminal records with Biometric identification information for background security checks, crime investigation and prosecution and counter-terrorism and for related matters.

“These bills couldn’t have come at any other better time other than now considering the increasing threats to security in the country.

The Senate especially this committee is committed toward the provision of adequate legal framework for effective policing and crime control in our society.

“The bills when passed will certainly help in enhancing indepth investigation of crime and control in the country. The public hearing will afford all the invited stakeholders and members of the public a very good opportunity to make your contributions on these subjects to enable the Senate pass the bills into law,” he said.

The Senate also yesterday raised an alarm that 12 of the 16 million registered motorists in Nigeria are carrying fake insurance certificates.

Moving a motion, Senator Ahmed Salau Ogembe (Kogi Central) called for the implementation of compulsory insurance in Nigeria as provided in the Insurance Act and Regulation 2003.

Ogembe had in the motion, submitted that out of the 16 million registered vehicles in Nigeria, only four million are properly insured as he decried the lapses in insurance policy.

“The country is grossly underinsured and basically, her citizens do not take advantage of services rendered by this very important sector of the economy.

“Presently 58 insurance

Lawyer Challenges Legality of Provisions of ACJ Act Tobi Soniyi in Abuja A former Commissioner for Information in Abia and a public interest lawyer, Dr. ACB Agbazuere has asked a Federal High Court in Abuja to strike down some sections of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act 2015 on the grounds that they violated the provisions of the 1999 Constitution as amended.

Agabazuere joined the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice and the National Assembly in the suit as defendants to the suit.

Agbazuere is challenging some sections of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act 2015 which he contended were contrary to the provisions of the 1999 Nigerian Constitution (as amended).

In the suit, Agbazuere is asking the court to determine whether the provisions of section 165(2) of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, 2015 to the effect that a court may require the deposit of sum of money or other security as the court may specify from the defendant or his surety before bail

is approved, is not inconsistent with the provisions of section 36 (5) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), to the effect that every person who is charged with a criminal offence shall be presumed innocent until proved guilty.

In a 17-paragraph affidavit he deposed to in support of the suit, Agbazuere averred that the provisions of the new law run contrary to the 1999 Constitution and that if allowed to exist means a Nigerian citizen who has no money or other security will be deprived of his right to bail and will not have his bail approved and will therefore be sent to prison until he/ she pays the money when he/she is yet to be tried for the offence.

In the suit, he argued that: “The law is settled that the provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria is supreme and if any other law is inconsistent with the provisions of this Constitution, this Constitution shall prevail and that other law shall to the extent of its inconsistency be void by virtue of section 1(1) and (3) of the constitution

companies are registered with the National Insurance Commission, yet there are uncountable number of unregistered insurance institutions selling worthless insurance certificates to unsuspecting members of the public.

“This reprehensible act is mostly manifest in the third party motor/vehicle insurance

scheme where such unregistered institutions connive with relevant law enforcement agencies to perpetrate their act. Out of the sixteen million vehicles in Nigeria, only four million are properly insured,” he said.

The Senate therefore mandated its Committee on Banking, Insurance and Other Financial

Institutions to invite all stakeholders in the insurance sector, such as the National Insurance Commission (NAICOM), Registered Insurance Companies in Nigeria and relevant law enforcement agencies to deliberate on ways and means of ensuring strict implementation and compliance with the six compulsory insurance schemes as provided in

the Act and invoke sanctions where necessary.

It also urged NAICOM to properly orientate the public on the insurance policies as stipulated in the Act and publish the 58 registered insurance companies for public patronage and adherence to insurance policies.

WE SAY NO TO BAN

Members of Federal Cadasters Miners Association and other union members, during a warning protest against Lagos State Government over an order banning them from operating, at Iyana-Ipaja in Lagos.......yesterday Kola Olasupo

Imo Police Command Parades 60 Suspects for Kidnapping, Armed Robbery, Murder Amby Uneze in Owerri The Imo State Police Command yesterday paraded over 60 suspects who were involved in various criminal activities ranging from kidnapping, murder, armed robbery and fraudulent activities.

Briefing journalists at the state police command, Owerri, the state Commissioner of Police, Mr. Taiwo Frederick Lakanu, said the effort was in line with the determination of his command to consolidate on the continued raiding of all criminal hideouts in the state.

Among those arrested were the kidnappers of the Channel Television Correspondent in Imo, as well as the kidnappers of another journalist that works with Excel Magazine along EmekukuUmuahia Road.

They included Chimezie Clement (31), Lucky Duru (24), Nwaneri Uzochukwu (28), Nnamdi Ndukwu (35), Favour Chukwuemeka (28), Chinenye Elekwuya (31), John Ikorobu, and Njemanze Obuneke (29).

The police also paraded three suspects caught for vandalising MTN mast at Oleme Amaifeke, in Orlu Local Government.

A pick-up van and 22 battery chargers belonging to MTN were also recovered from them.

The suspects are Odey Augustine (22) and Nweke

Stephen (25).

Lakanu, who decried the activities of some pastors, paraded one Pastor Delight Arinze Okorie of Watered Ground Ministry, Atta in Njaba Local Government Area of the state.

The pastor was said to have attempted to murder one of his worshippers in the guise of praying for her.

Other suspects were two brothers and their friend, who kidnapped and subsequently killed their friend, one Ugonna Martins Ukaegbu, a student of the Federal Polytechnic, Nekede, Owerri.

They are Udodi Eke (23), Chukwudi Eke (24) and Chidiebere Umezurike (20).

Also, an attempt to kidnap Bishop Ezeugo Ekewuba, General Overseer of Overcomeers Christian Mission Inc along Avu road was aborted as the police succeeded in recovering one AK 47 riffle with three magazines loaded 58 rounds of ammunition.

The CP warned hospitals and other health facilities to watch out for those who ran away with bullet wounds to report such cases to the police. He also assured the people of the state of the preparedness of the police command to wrestle with the criminals no matter where they hide.

FG to Unravel Root Cause of Insurgency in Nigeria, Says AGF Alex Enumah in Abuja The Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami (SAN), has assured that the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari will soon unravel the root cause of insurgency in the country.

Malami made this disclosure yesterday in Abuja while addressing aggrieved lawyers in the country who protested the menace of Boko Haram to his office.

He said a judicial commission of inquiry might soon be put together to investigate how insurgency found its way into the country.

About 100 lawyers under the umbrella body of Lawyers United for Equality and Human Rights Advocacy protested to the office of the AGF to demand the investigation and prosecution of persons found to have been sponsoring insurgency in the country.

The director in charge of General Services in the Ministry, Mrs. Lola Uket, who received the protesters on behalf of the minister, assured them that the minister will respond swiftly to their demands.

“You have made your demands and I am sure the minister will act and act very fast to meet your

demands. I believe you gave a time frame in your demand and I am sure they will all be met.

Your demands have not been met before now not because of negligence on the part of the minister but because of certain circumstances.

“Let us be patient with them because they are also learned men like you. Let us give them the benefit of the doubt that something will be done”, she said.

The lawyers in their position paper, asked the minister to ensure the investigation and prosecution of sponsors of the Islamic terrorist group, and ensure their prosecution at the International Criminal Court (ICC).

In the paper addressed to the Attorney-General, the lawyers asked the federal government to avoid the grave mistake of government in the past that led to the intermittent resurrection of Niger Delta militancy.

The Convener of the group, Samson Esekhaigbe Esq. and Nnena Okereke, the Publicity Secretary said the recent development In the country is capable of causing serious political upheavals.

He also said they are pointers to the fact that the top politicians in Borno State who created Boko Haram are still in touch with their “foot soldiers”.

59

T H I S D AY • WEDNESDAY JUNE 8, 2016

WEDNESDAYSPORTS

Group Sports Editor Duro Ikhazuagbe Email duro.ikhazuagbe@thisdaylive.com

A F T E R M AT H O F S ’ KO R E A TO U R N E Y

Disappointed Siasia Set to Drop Awoniyi, Three Others Nigeria U-23 coach Samson Siasia is set to drop some players from his team to the Olympic Games following their poor show at the invitational tournament in South Korea.

A top official of the Nigeria U23 side told Goal.com yesterday that four key players are in danger of losing their places in the team ahead of the Olympic Games in August, following coach Samson Siasia’s disappointment at the performances.

Nigeria lost two matches and nicked a final win at the Suwon four-nation invitational that ended on Monday as part of preparations for Rio 2016 which kicks off in less than two months.

The culprits of Siasia’s wrath are central defender Erhun Obanor, fullback Stanley Amuzie, striker Taiwo Awoniyi and goalkeeper Emmanuel Daniel.

The four players may have played their last game for the Olympic team unless they can find their form in the next series of test games.

Siasia was saddened by the 6-2 defeat to Denmark in the second game that he has vowed to weed out unproductive players in the team.

He confessed that he was very disappointed with the performance of the players.

“Siasia is not happy that a player like Taiwo Awoniyi has failed to live up to expectations by not converting the numerous chances that came his way despite his potentials,”an official told Goal.

“He is considering dropping him for a more prolific striker unless he

bounces back to scoring goals. That is if he considers him for the other friendly games any way.

“The chief coach is also unhappy with the form of goalkeeper Emmanuel Daniel, the team’s first choice in goal and he has told him to sit up or be shipped out.

“He is also not happy that Obanor has not seized the opportunity left by injured Segun Oduduwa to lay claim to the central defense position while Stanley Amuzie that he had so much hope in has been given a final warning.

“Siasia told Amuzie that if he refuses to sit up other players from Europe will take his position.

“It was a heart to heart and very blunt meeting Siasia had with members of the team after the team’s 3-1 victory over Honduras in their last match at the Suwon Tournament.

“He told the players bluntly that the Olympic Football Tournament is not child’s play and any player that is not ready should go back to where they came from,”the official concluded.

Siasia has less than two months to put together a team capable of reaching the final in Rio de Janeiro to match the feat of his last team at the Beijing 2008 games.

He is hopeful that the inclusion of youngsters Kelechi Iheanacho and Alex Iwobi could the magic upfront.

Meanwhile Players and officials of the team are expected to keep a visa appointment with the USA embassy tomorrow in Abuja on

18TH NESTLE MILO B’BALL CHAMPIONSHIP

Delta, Lagos in Brilliant Start Determination, dedication and team work are some of key words by the sole sponsor of Nestle Milo when the Milo Championship starterd 18years ago.

All these attributes were evident as the girls took the centre stage first at the indoor sports Hall of Asaba stadium Delta State yesterday.

Defending champions of the Nestle Milo Secondary Schools Basketball Championships in the girls cadre, St.Jude Girls Sec Sch Amarata, Bayelsa State began their title defence on a bright note in Group A, after defeating Harmony Secondary school Lokoja,Kogi State, 40-6 scoreline in the opening match.

The Bayelsa Girls wasted no time in telling their opponents their mission at the championship, leading their opponent in all the quarters of the game.

They took the game beyond Kogi girls reach as they made them look ordinary and disorganised to the dissatisfaction of their fans.

Bayelsa captain, Odiowei Susan was arguably the star player of the match as her ball skills and good ball passes helped in outplaying Kogis team.

SuSan speaking after the game,that good teamwork and determination had given them the victory.

In the second match played of group B, Wesley Gilrs Snr Sec school, Lagos out dunked Government Secondary School Gboko, Benue State by 37-25 points.

The three quarters of the game saw a well contested match as the results read, 3-7, 10-15 and 20-21 before Lagos pulled off in the final quarter to beat Benue 37-27 points.

In the boys category, Osadenis Mixed Secondary school Asaba,Delta State defeated General Muritala Muhammad college Adamawa by 53-26 points in group A. Tinism Dickson of Adamawa said that his team lacked endurance and were not able to sustain the tempo in the all quarters of the match.

“We played well but could not sustain the tempo we started with, we lacked endurance and coordination, we hope to correct this in our next game,” Dickson said.

arrival today from Korea..

The team will train in Atlanta, USA, and Manchester in England

prior to the Rio Olympics in August.

They finished third at the tournament after they lost their first

two matches before they defeated Honduras 3-1 in a final game.

Nigeria won an historic Olympic

soccer Gold 20 years ago in Atlanta.

They were also beaten to the Gold medal at the 2008 Beijing Olympics.

Awoniyi

House May Debate Pinnick, Giwa Crisis in Plenary Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja The House of Representatives has paved the way for the Nigeria Football Federation ( NFF) to be debated at plenary session after it set up a four- man committee to look into crisis.

The principal adversaries in the centre stage, Amaju Pinnick and Chris Giwa, both claiming to be the validly elected president of NFF, yesterday held a closed-door meeting with the House Sports Committee as way of finding of bridging the gulf between them which was accentuated by two disputed elections in 2014.

The Chairman of House Sports Committee, Hon. Bukar Goni Lawal, said the committee could not adjudicate on the matter as it is presently before the Nigerian Judiciary.

Lawal told them in unmistakable terms that it was time to sheathe the swords but the judiciary must first hands off

the case for that to happen.

Lawal also told reportets that in the interim a four-man committee has been asked to try and broker a peace between the two factions. It must submit its report next week.

The committee is to be chaired

by Hon Lawan Bukar and has Hon Anayo Mengi and Hon Abdulkadir Danburuba Nuhu as members.

If the peace effort is fruitless, thier report will be debated on the floor of House as an issue of urgent national importance, given that the crisis has effectively impacted on the administration of football and is capable of affecting the chances of Nigeria to qualify for the 2018 World Cup in Russia.

Later yesterday, Pinnick took time out of his tight schedule to witness the on-going Golden Eaglets’ screening at the NFF/ FIFA Goal Project Pitch in Abuja.

Pinnick who came in company of a number of board members

and some football stakeholders, spent almost one hour to watch the players jostling to be part of the team being put in place for the forthcoming qualifiers for the U-17 Africa Cup of Nations to be held in Madagascar next year.

On the entourage of Pinnick were NFF’s 1st Vice-President, Bar. Seyi Akinwunmi, Barrister Chris Green, Alhaji Babagana Kalli, Sunday Dele-Ajayi, Alhaji Sharif Rabiu Inuwa, Alhaji Ahmed Yusuf Fresh and Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau. There were also Pinnick’s special assistant on security, Chikelue Iloenyosi and Austin Popo, secretary of Nigeria Players’ Union.

Speaking to thenff.com, Pinnick stated that the large turnout is a vindication of the abundance of talents in the country, even as he challenged the coaching crew to discover more Kelechi Iheanachos,Victor Osimhens and their ilk for the country.

“This exercise is competitive

and I’m always very proud to see young players play football but at the end of the day, only about 50 or 60 would be picked by the coaches,”noted Pinnick.

“But the players have shown discipline and we have also seen dexterity on the part of some of them and I’m just overwhelmed; and I think it is going to be difficult for the technical study group to arrive at a sizeable number.”

According to Pinnick, football has become an integral sector of the economy, adding that young players have seen that football is a leeway to better the lot of their families. He further said Nigeria has created an enviable record at the U-17 level after the Golden Eaglets won its fifth title in Chile last year, and asked the coaching crew to maintain the momentum: “The U-17 World Cup is our exclusive preserve and we must keep on winning it.”

Sam Ocheho Invitational Handball Gets N10m InnJoo Backing Kunle Adewale Fastest growing smartphone brand, Innjoo and main sponsor of this year’s Sam Ochedo Invitational Handball would be supporting competition, which is in its third edition with a huge sum of 10 million naira.

At a press conference yesterday at the Lagos State Sports Commission, Alagomeji, Lagos, to herald the competition, Country Manager of Innjoo, Rekesh Rocque, said,“InnJoo is honored to be the sole platinum

sponsor of this youths’ festival. We shared the same spirit of the young generation with passion, living with dream and believing in ourselves.”

Meanwhile, initiator and chairperson of the competition, Sam Ocheho said this year’s championship will be unique, being the first time it is having a named sponsor, who is also entering the sport terrain in Nigeria for the first time.

Sam Ocheho Invitational Handball Championship is a biennial handball event which started in June 2012.

It has developed from being a regional event to an International Championship. In this year’s edition, teams from the West African sub region are expected to participate in the championship.

“The main aim of the Championship is to develop the potentials in the youths by keeping them away from the streets and channelling their energy to sports. This way they are engaged thereby reducing their tendency to indulge in

social vices. I also see it as a way of giving back to the society as I also benefitted from participating in the game of handball during my schooling days as a player prior to my involvement in handball administration,” Ocheho This year championship is scheduled to hold at the Lagos State Sports Commission between June 10 and 19.

The competition this year will feature loads of attractive prize awards courtesy of Innjoo.

Some of the teams expected at the competition are the Civil Defence team (male and female), Kano Pyramids team, Lagos United team (male and female), Eko all Stars, Delta Force (male and female), Rima of Sokoto team, Aspac of Benin Republic team (male and female), Black Hands of Ghana team, Flowers of Republic of Benin (male and female), Imo Grasshoppers team, AbiaValiant team, Edo Queens team, Queens of Cote D‘Ivoire team, Idah Pilars.

60

T H I S D AY • WEDNESDAY JUNE 8, 2016

WEDNESDAYSPORTS NFPL

Rabiu Ali Returns for Pillars after Suspension

Kano Pillars have been boosted for today’s high-profile clash against Enugu Rangers with the return of star midfielder Rabiu Ali after he was suspended for the team’s last game after picking

up five bookings.

“Rabiu is back for the game against Rangers, he has served out his suspension for accumulating five bookings after he missed the home game

against Plateau United,” Pillars spokesman Idris Malikawa informed AfricanFootball.com However, Pillars will be

without defensive midfielder Usman Mohammed, who has been granted compassionate leave following the death of

his father.

It will be a battle of the title chasers when Rangers host Pillars at the Nnamdi Azikiwe

Stadium in Enugu tonight.

Pillars won the reverse fixture 2-1 on the opening day of the season.

MFM Stars Target Winning Restart against Nasarawa MFM FC midfielders Ifeanyi Ifeanyi and Onuwa Chukwuka Emmanuel have said they hope to restart top-flight action on a winning note against Nasarawa United today at the Agege Township Stadium.

The first leg of this fixture saw MFM FC claiming the maximum three points with a 2-1 victory over the Lafia-based team at the Aper Aku Stadium in Makurdi.

“We want to start the second stanza of the league on a winning note and we need to continue our great performance,” he declared.

“We are gunning for the maximum three points against Nasarawa United FC to start with.”

Onuwa, on the other hand, has predicted a tough game but believes his team will emerge victorious all the same.

He said, “We shocked Nasarawa United in the first leg so expectedly, this game will be a difficult one because they will be coming for a revenge, but we will defeat them because the three points at stake are very important to us to give our fans

STANDINGS Team

P

W D

Wikki

19

10 4

something to cheer as we begin the second round of the league.”.

‘The Olukoya Boys’ are 10th on the table with 27 points halfway through the season.

Meanwhile the chairman of Nasarawa United Isaac Danladi has stated that it’s time to get avenge their defeat to MFM FC after losing the first leg to them at the start of the season.

“My players are professionals, they know what’s at stake and I’m very confident that they will deliver in Lagos.

The team is already in Lagos, as at Monday they were in Akure but they are now in Lagos,”Danladi said to Goal.com “ It’s pay back time, they’ve gotten theirs’ in Makurdi and it’s time to pick ours’ in Lagos as well too.”

FIXTURES

Wikki Tourists Vs El Kanemi Abia Warriors Vs Ikorodu Utd Akwa Utd Vs Sunshine Lobi Stars Vs Shooting Stars Enyimba Vs Rivers Utd MFM FC Vs Nasarawa Utd IfeanyiUbah Vs Giwa FC Tornadoes Vs Plateau Utd Rangers Vs Kano Pillars Warri Wolves Vs Heartland L 5

GF

GA GD

Pts

29

12

34

17

Rivers Utd

19

11 1

7

21

15

6

34

Kano Pillars

19

9

5

26

17

9

32

5

Rangers

19

9

5

5

28

22

6

32

Enyimba

18

9

3

6

21

18

3

30

Sunshine

19

7

7

5

24

18

6

28

Abia Warriors 18

7

7

4

20

16

4

28

Lobi Stars

19

8

4

7

20

17

3

28

MFM FC

18

7

6

5

19

16

3

27

Akwa Utd

19

8

3

8

22

20

2

27

Ifeanyiubah

19

8

3

8

18

19

-1

27

El-Kanemi

19

8

1

10

22

24

-2

25

Tornadoes

19

8

1

10

22

25

-3

25

Wolves

19

7

4

8

13

17

-4

25

Nasarawa Utd 19

8

0

11

19

25

-6

24

Heartland

19

5

6

8

13

18

-5

21

Plateau Utd

19

4

8

7

17

25

-8

20

3SC

19

6

2

11

20

31

-11

20

Ikorodu Utd

19

3

4

12

13

32

-19

13

Ali

Heartland FC Captain, Efugh Laments Club Poor Run Captain of Heartland Chinedu Efugh has said the club’s form has suffered because salaries have not been regular.

Heartland at the weekend lost at home to Rangers in a Week 20 encounter at the Dan Anyiam Stadium in Owerri.

Efugh who said the development is a distraction for the players assured that players of ‘The Nazi Millionaires’ have resolved to put up their best performances to succeed in the league.

“Well we are really training hard, you know sometimes the Nigerian scenario, you know all these distraction of money, money, money, money;

sometimes it plays a role too”.

He added:”Well it’s just part of it, but we believe that everything is going

Giwa FC Players Optimistic of Club’s Return to Action Giwa FC owner Chris Giwa has reportedly assured his players they will still play in the Nigeria league even after they were expelled for violating the rules that govern the game.

Giwa were thrown out of the league after they stayed awayfrom three league games as stipulated in the rules of the league.

However, two of the influential players of the team told

AfricanFootball.com that top club officials told them the owner said they will still play in the league.

One of them who was reported to have moved to a new club told AfricanFootball.com that he decided to stay after the assurance.

“I didn’t sign for the team, it was almost a done deal before I was told that our oga (Chris Giwa) said we are not out of the league that we will still play,” he

told AfricanFootball.com Another player of the team who is currently out of Jos told AfricanFootball.com he also received this assurance.

“I am not in Jos now, but I got the information that the chairman (Chris Giwa) said we are still going to play in the league,” he said.

“I am planning my life right now and next thing to do. I will be in Jos before the weekend.”

Efugh

to turn around. You know to boost the team, the money we are talking, about, we need more of

the government coming in to help”.

Heartland are currently 15th on the league table.

61

T H I S D AY •WEDNESDAY JUNE 8, 2016

WEDNESDAYSPORTS F E D E R AT I O N C U P

Abuja, Calabar on Edge for Big Games The Round of 32 matches of this year’s men’s Federation Cup competition will take place next week, with the clash between NPFL sides Enyimba FC and El-Kanemi Warriors the pick of the pack.

CAF Champions League contenders Enyimba take on the Maiduguri Warriors at the Area 3 venue, Abuja tonight.

The UJ Esuene Stadium, Calabar will be venue for the only other all-NPFL clash, between FC IfeanyiUbah and Lobi Stars.

Kwara United FC will be at loggerheads with NPFL side Akwa United at the Aper Aku Stadium, Makurdi tomorrow, while Nasarawa United are up against Go Round FC at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, Enugu today.

In the women’s competition, champions Sunshine Queens will lock horns with Osun Babes in Ibadan today in the Round of 16, while COD United must negotiate past Pelican Stars of Calabar at the Confluence Stadium, Lokoja tomorrow.

MEN’S ROUND OF 32 FIXTURES Akwa United Vs Kwara United Sunshine Stars Vs Abia Comets Dynamite FC Vs Flash Flamingoes Nasarawa United Vs Go Round FC Rivers United Vs Kaduna United Shooting Stars Vs Almar FC Top World FC Vs J. Atete FC El-Kanemi Warriors Vs Enyimba Crown FC Vs Niger Tornadoes ABS FC Vs Enugu Rangers Kogi United Vs Wikki Tourists Dreams FC Vs Plateau United Kano Pillars Vs Prime FC Warri Wolves Vs Jigawa Stars MFM FC Vs Katsina United FC IfeanyiUbah Vs Lobi Stars WOMEN’S ROUND OF 16 Sunshine Queens Vs Osun Babes Capital City Doves Vs Rivers Angels Mosco Queens Vs Nasarawa Amazons Abia Angels Vs Confluence Queens Ibom Angels Vs Delta Queens Gift of Life Vs Katsina Queens COD United Vs Pelican Stars Martin White Doves Vs Bayelsa Queens

- Makurdi - Oleh - Abuja - Enugu - Makurdi - Agege - Enugu - Abuja - Akure - Bauchi - Kaduna - Damaturu - Lokoja - Ilorin - Lokoja - Calabar - Ibadan - Makurdi – Ilorin - Enugu - Owerri - Abuja - Lokoja – Nnewi

L-R Group Head, Strategy & Comunication, Sterling Bank Plc Shina Atilola, Honorary Secretary, Lagos Lawn Tennis Club (LLTC) , Barrister Adewunmi Adisa; President, Lagos Lawn Tennis Club, Barrister, Rotimi Edu;, Special Adviser, Sports and Chairman Lagos State Sports Commission, Mr. Ayodeji Tinubu and Chairman, LLTC Planning Committee 2016 Walk for Life, Mr. Bala Yesufu at the kick off of the Walk supported by the Bank recently

Sterling Bank Marks World Environment Day Nationwide Further driving its commitment to environmental sustainability, Sterling Bank staff over the weekend embarked on a nationwide cleaning exercise tagged the“Sterling Environmental Makeover” (#STEM) series. In Enugu state, the Bank partnered with the Deputy Governor of the State alongside other key government officials to clean the famous Market Road while

simultaneously presenting Highway kits to the Rivers State Waste Management Agency (RIWAMA).

The Cleaning Exercise was strategically timed as it coincided with the global World Environment Day celebration on June 5th, a day set aside by the United Nations (UN) to call attention to environmental issues. The Bank’s Executive Director, Finance

and Strategy while speaking to reporters in Lagos highlighted that the exercise was in furtherance of the institution’s purpose of “Enriching Lives”. He said,“As a bank, we remain committed to this both in our business operations and also in our corporate social responsibility and that is why we are doing this”.

At Enugu state, the Deputy Governor, Mrs. Cecilia Ezeilo who

Chair person of Sam Ocheho Invitational Handball Championship, Sam Ocheho presenting the trophy to Country Manager, Innjoo, Rakesh Rocque, sponsor of the competition

was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Mr. Gabriel Ajah was excited about the initiative and the turnout and called on more individuals and corporate bodies to emulate the Bank. She expressed the commitment of the government to environmental health and safety standards.

The Commissioners for Environment and Special Duties together with the Managing Director of the Enugu State Waste Management Agency were also present at the exercise.

At Rivers state, the Sole administrator of the Rivers State Waste Management Agency (RIWAMA), Bro. Felix Obuah who received the uniforms presented to the state by the Bank’s Business Executive, Emmanuel Emefienim in Port Harcourt appreciated the Bank for the support.

He also expressed confidence in a successful partnership that would see the Agency’s vision of enhancing the environment and achieving positive and substantial change in living conditions, reducing diseases and health problems for the people come to life.

At Abeokuta, the Ogun State Capital, the Bank’s Executive Director, Commercial and Institutional Banking, Lanre Adesanya joined other staff and even customers of the Bank to clean the popular Kuto market. He remarked that asides the periodic cleaning exercise, other areas the Bank had sought to promote environmental sustainability

included its partnership with Waste Management Agencies across various States by kitting their personnel. He mentioned that to date, the Bank had partnered Waste Management agencies in Lagos, Enugu, Ogun, Kaduna, Abia, Delta, Ekiti and now, Rivers State.

Since its inception of the STEM initiative in 2013, staff of the One Customer Bank alongside street sweepers periodically clean major markets, highways, streets and motor parks in several states of the federation. States involved in the recent exercise include Adamawa, Abia, Bauchi, Delta, Enugu, Katsina, Kwara, Lagos, Plateau, Ogun and Ondo States.

Sterling Bank Plc, “the one-

customer bank”, is a full-service national commercial bank with an asset base above N800 billion with over 190 business offices and more than 800 ATMs nationwide. In over 55 years of service, Sterling Bank (formerly NAL Bank) has evolved from the nation’s pre-eminent investment banking institution to a fully-fledged commercial bank.

Furthermore, with a strong national presence, Sterling Bank is one of the top 30 most capitalized institutions on the Nigerian Stock Exchange.

The bank also remains one of Nigeria’s fastest growing banks and is recognized as a dynamic financial services organisation.

Emeruwa in Accra for FIFA Course NFF’s Integrity Officer and National Security Officer, Dr. Christian Emeruwa has arrived in Accra, Ghana for a three –day FIFA EWS Match Manipulation Prevention‘Train the Trainer’course.

In the letter inviting Emeruwa to the course, football’s world ruling body, FIFA wrote:“As the level of awareness of the threat to the integrity of football from match manipulation grows, it is increasingly important that all members of the football family are fully aware of the risks of engaging in match manipulation and can protect themselves and football by recognizing, resisting and reporting any approaches to

fix a match.

“In line with FIFA’s resolve to tackle this scourge, we cordially invite Dr. Christian Emeruwa from the NFF as a nominee to attend a training course for trainers in the area of match manipulation prevention. This ‘Train the Trainer’ course is a key component of the FIFA integrity initiative to tackle match manipulation.”

Participants are expected to, at the end of the course taking place at the Accra City Hotel, be equipped with the knowledge and skills to deliver match manipulation prevention training for their respective member associations.

62

T H I S D AY •WEDNESDAY JUNE 8, 2016

WEDNESDAYSPORTS

Chelsea Doctor, Carneiro Settles Dismissal Case Former Chelsea doctor Eva Carneiro has settled her dismissal claim against the club on confidential terms.

Dr Carneiro had claimed constructive dismissal against the club and was also bringing separate legal action against former manager Jose Mourinho.

On Monday it emerged Chelsea had offered Dr Carneiro £1.2m to settle her claims which she had rejected.

Chelsea said it“regretted the circumstances” which led to the former first team doctor leaving the club.

In a statement Dr Carneiro said: “I am relieved that today we have been able to conclude this tribunal case. It has been

an extremely difficult and distressing time for me and my family and I now look forward to moving forward with my life.

“My priority has always been the health and safety of the players and fulfilling my duty of care as a doctor.”

Addressing the tribunal, Daniel Stilitz QC, for Chelsea and Mr Mourinho, said: “We are pleased to be able to tell the tribunal that the parties agreed a settlement on confidential terms.”

Chelsea said in a statement: “The club regrets the circumstances which led to Dr Carneiro leaving the club and apologises unreservedly

to her and her family for the distress caused.

“We wish to place on record that in running onto the pitch

Dr Carneiro was following both the rules of the game and fulfilling her responsibility to the players as a doctor,

putting their safety first.

It added: “Jose Mourinho also thanked Dr Carneiro for the excellent and dedi-

cated support she provided as first team doctor and he wishes her a successful career.”

Barca Accused of ‘Negative’ Tactics to Woo Bellerin Barcelona are reportedly trying to tempt Arsenal’s Hector Bellerin to join them without his club’s permission.

According to El Confidencial, the Spanish champions have been in touch with the defender to discuss a transfer for this summer, without informing Arsenal - which, if true, is against FIFA rules.

They quote the FIFA rule on transfer negotiations between interested parties: “A club wishing to enter into a contract with a professional player must communicate in writing its intention to the club of the player before starting negotiations with the player.”

The report states that the 21-year-old has been earmarked as a priority target for the Catalan club, along with Aymeric Laporte of Athletic Bilbao - but claim that they have not waited for permission from the players’ respective clubs.

However, with Arsenal believed to have no intention of selling their right-back, this could be a long and drawn-out saga over the summer.

Bellerin is currently with the Spanish squad preparing for Euro 2016 - his first at international level - after being called up due to an injury to Real Madrid’s Dani Carvajal.

Barcelona’s interest has come about due to the expected departure of club legend Dani Alves. The Brazilian has been linked with a move to Juventus in recent weeks, as he is reportedly keen to try a different country to play football in before he retires.

If Bellerin is to move to Barcelona, it is likely that a massive transfer fee would be needed due to his age and standing at Arsenal, but if a formal offer is forthcoming then he may find it very difficult to resist, as seen in the case of Cesc Fabregas.

Angel di Maria celebrating a goal with Argentina team-mate Ever Banega

Carneiro (left), in court yesterday

COPA AMERICA

Di Maria Lift Argies over Chile Despite the absence of captain Lionel Messi, Argentina saw off Chile in a rematch of last year’s Copa America final.

Argentina showed there is more to the team than Lionel Messi after accounting for defending champion Chile 2-1 in their Copa America Centenario opener in Santa Clara on Monday.

Messi was an unused substitute in a rematch of last year’s Copa America final, with Argentina coach Gerardo Martino opting not

to risk his captain at Levi’s Stadium as he nurses a back injury.

But Angel di Maria and Ever Banega stepped up in the absence of the fivetime Ballon d’Or winner, with the pair’s quick-fire second-half goals inspiring a fifth consecutive victory for Argentina.

Argentina controlled proceedings but it was not until the second half that the 14-time champion made its dominance count, with Di Maria opening the scoring

in the 51st minute before Banega struck eight minutes later, with goalkeeper Claudio Bravo exposed at his near post on both occasions.

Jose Pedro Fuenzalida headed in a late consolation, but Chile slumped to a fifth defeat in six matches.

Messi was not the only change to Argentina’s starting XI as midfield duo Banega and Augusto Fernandez got the nod over Lucas Biglia and Erik Lamela, who both started in a 1-0 win over Honduras on May 27.

Chile was back at full strength following its final pre-Copa fixture - a late 1-0 loss to Mexico - with captain Bravo joining Eduardo Vargas, Gonzalo Jara, Mauricio Isla and Jean Beausejour in the lineup. Cristopher Toselli, Nicolas Castillo, Edson Puch, Fuenzalida and Enzo Roco made way.

Tournament organisers were left red faced again pregame after Chile’s national anthem was disrupted by a Pitbull song.

It was another embarrassing moment for the Copa America after the title holder’s anthem was wrongly played instead of Uruguay’s before Mexico’s 3-1 victory in Arizona on Sunday.

Once the match kicked off, Argentina - which defeated Chile 2-1 in World Cup qualifying in March dictated proceedings and came within a whisker of taking a second-minute lead as Nicolas Gaitan - Messi’s replacement - clipped the

top of the crossbar with a header after latching on to an inch-perfect cross from Di Maria.

Enjoying success down the left flank, Argentina continued to look dangerous through Di Maria, with Gonzalo Higuain and Marcos Rojo going close.

But while comfortable for large portions of the half, Argentina had to withstand some nervy moments, especially on the half-hour mark, keeper Sergio Romero producing a finger-tip save to deny Alexis Sanchez after his teammates surrendered possession outside the penalty area.

After a scoreless first half, it only took six minutes for Argentina to break the deadlock following the interval.

A telling ball from Banega picked out Di Maria, who placed the ball beyond Bravo at the near post.

Di Maria then turned provider for Banega in a similar situation eight minutes later, as his teammate beat Bravo at the near post, albeit with some help from a deflection.

With Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp in the stands, seemingly casting his eye over Higuain, the in-demand Napoli striker almost made it 3-0 in the 67th minute but an outstretched leg from Bravo gave Chile hope.

Rojo and Lamela went close to adding a third for Argentina before Fuenzalida headed in a Fabian Orellana se piece as Romero came rushing out to collect in the 93rd minute.

T H I S D AY WEDNESDAY JUNE 8, 2016

63

Wednesday June 8, 2016

TR

UT H

& RE A S O

N

Price: N250

MISSILE

Jonathan to FG

“It is not true; there is no way that he (President Buhari) would have inherited an empty treasury and at the same time give bailout to the states. It’s not possible...Nigeria is a fairly robust economy. But sometimes, we over politicise some issues and make it look so bad. It was not that bad. Some people ask questions like I was the president of Nigeria since independence; I was the president for five years” –Former President Goodluck Jonathan denying the claim by the federal government that he left behind an empty treasury when he handed over power to President Muhammadu Buhari on May 29, 2015.

BOLAJIAKINYEMI GUEST COLUMNIST

Mohammed Ali: The Last of The Camelot Giants

M

y generation by which I mean the generation which came into political and social consciousness in the 1960s was lucky in the sense that we had many real heroes, men and women from whom we drew inspiration, who made us feel that the best was within reach and that God’s mission on earth was achievable by doing good. They did not come any greater than John F. Kennedy, Robert Kennedy, Martin Luther King, Jr., Malcolm X, Kwame Nkrumah, Patrick Lumumba, Nelson Mandela, Kaduna Nzeogwu, Francis Fajuyi and yes, Mohammed Ali (the Greatest boxer of all times). It was also the age of independence for African states, an age that liberated not just territories but the can-do spirit of the whole world.

It reminded us of the can-do and elevating atmosphere prevalent in the court of King Arthur and his knights of the roundtable. That Court was known as Camelot.

But it was also an unfortunate generation because we watched helplessly as each one of our heroes was assassinated, overthrown, and incarcerated. It was a generation that watched as dreams were aborted. We watched as the dreams of independence turned into the nightmare of massacres, genocide, civil wars and kleptocracy.

Now, the last of the Camelot Titans, Mohammed Ali, is gone, just gone. I met Ali only once in Lagos during the Shehu Shagari period. The United States under Jimmy Carter was trying to organise a boycott of the Moscow Olympic Games then due to be held in Moscow. Ali was sent by the Carter administration to lobby African states to join in the boycott. I was still at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA) as the Director-General and Professor Isaya Audu was the Foreign Minister. I turned up in Professor Audu’s office on appointment only to be told to wait a while as an unexpected visitor had shown up.

Soon, the door opened and I leapt up as Ali floated out in a boxing posture as he exited the Foreign

university education, not to talk of any specialisation in psychology, he used psychology to devastating effect against his opponents before they even climbed into the ring.

Ali, the master performer, elevated boxing from the basement of the poor to the sitting room of royalty and billionaires. Boxing will miss him; sports will miss him; humanity will miss him.

He survived in spite of the fact that he did not play safe. He took on the American system when in 1964, he changed his name from Cassius Clay to Mohammed Ali after joining the Nation of Islam otherwise called the Nation of Islam and when he refused to fight in the Vietnam War. Those who took on the system especially in 60s and 70s usually paid with their lives as one hero after another got hunted down by the invisible forces that form the underbelly of rapacious and vicious

system. Ali survived.

The death of our heroes, speaking for my generation, did not kill our dreams. Those who kill often do not realise that dreams cannot be killed. They sow seeds that germinate over time and hopefully serve to inspire another generation.

You said you were the Greatest.

So say we all. Your death brings to mind the immortal words of John Donne in his poem “For whom the bell tolls” when he wrote “No man is an island, entire of itself; every man is a piece of the continent, a part of the main…any man’s death diminishes me, because I am involved in mankind, and therefore never send to know for whom the bells tolls, it tolls for thee” Good night Mohammed Ali •Professor Akinyemi, Nigerian Minister of External Affairs (1985-87), sent this Tribute from Lagos.

Ali

Minister ’s office.

Then we shook hands. Professor Audu said jokingly that Ali should seek to persuade me about the Moscow boycott. That Ali went on diplomatic missions on behalf of the United States showed that even though he was against the Vietnam War and was against racism in the United States, he was not against the United States. He had a presence and a charm that masked the gritty determination of his beliefs.

Ali showed a more profound and nuanced opposition to racism in the United States than most of the leaders of the anti-discrimination movements.

The singular act of changing his name from Cassius Clay Jr. to Mohammed Ali sent a more powerful message as a symbolic message than a thousand marches. Ali was probably, actually definitely, not aware of the linkage between Islam and Arab slave trade in Africa. A later awareness of this in his later years might account for his switch from Sunni Islam to Surfism (another variant of Islam). Ali was a master of the grand gesture, gestures timed for maximum effect. Without a

Those who took on the system especially in the 60s and 70s usually paid with their lives as one hero after another got hunted down by the invisible forces that form the underbelly of rapacious and vicious system.

Mohammed Ali survived

I HEAR YOU! AHEM!.. I TOLD YOU, ON A GOOD DAY, OUR MD IS A GOOD LISTENER! HERE’S A MEMO FROM HIS OFFICE TO PROVE IT!

YES, IN A WAY! THE MEMO ADMITS HE HAD A LINGERING EAR INFECTION, SO DEBILITATING HE HAD TO FLY ABROAD YESTERDAY FOR TREATMENT!

DOES THE MEMO SAY WHY FOR SOME TIME NOW, WE COMPLAIN TO HIM ABOUT ONE THING AND HE DOES ANOTHER?

OH, I SEE! I PRAY FOR HIM TO RECOVER QUICKLY AND GET BACK TO WORK! WE ARE EAGER TO GIVE HIM AN EARFUL OF OUR COMPLAINTS!

8-06-16

Printed and Published in Lagos by THISDAY Newspapers Limited. Lagos: 35 Creek Road, Apapa, Lagos. Abuja: Plot 1, Sector Centre B, Jabi Business District, Solomon Lar Way, Jabi North East, Abuja .

All Correspondence to POBox 54749, Ikoyi, Lagos. EMAIL: editor@thisdaylive.com, info@thisdaylive.com. TELEPHONE Lagos: 0802 2924721-2, 08022924485. Abuja: Tel: 08155555292, 08155555929 24/7 ADVERTISING HOT LINES: 0811 181 3086, 0811 181 3087, 0811 181 3088, 0811 181 3089, 0811 181 3090. ENQUIRIES & BOOKING: adsbooking@thisdaylive.com