Sunday 3rd September 2017

Kachikwu: Transparency Index in Oil Sector Still Low Despite Reforms Says search for oil will continue in Lake Chad Basin, Benue Trough and other areas Chineme Okafor in Abuja The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Dr. Ibe Kachikwu, has said the country’s oil industry is still lacking in

sufficient transparency and trust.

Kachikwu, in a monthly podcast he shared on his social media feeds, and which THISDAY obtained yesterday in Abuja, said despite efforts

initiated by the government since 2015 to clean up the industry, transparency index still remains low and trust deficit still very high.

He said going forward, his

ministry would focus its energy on improving the industry’s transparency and trust indices, adding that Nigerians had the right to know every details of the industry’s operations.

According to him: “Transparency and trust are going to be key. We have done a lot in terms of trying to bring transparency to the industry: we have done monthly reports,

we have done processes, we have reviewed time, we have opened up the industry, but the transparency index still Continued on page 8

Olanipekun: Kenya S’Court Decision, Strong Message to Nigeria .... Page 8 Sunday 3 September, 2017 Vol 22. No 8172

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Again, Buhari Emphasises Right of Nigerians to Live, Work Anywhere in the Country As convention, intra-party conflict top agenda for president, APC leaders' meeting Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja President Muhammadu Buhari said yesterday in his hometown

of Daura, Katsina State, that every Nigerian could live and work anywhere in the country, irrespective of background,

underscoring once again the constitutional right of citizens and the stand of his government against recent hate speeches.

Buhari made the comment when he received the governor of Katsina State, Alhaji Aminu Masari, as part of the Eid-el-Kabir festivities,

THISDAY also learnt yesterday that the tricky national convention of the ruling All Progressives Congress and internal dissensions

in some of its local chapters would dominate discussions during a Continued on page 8

FG Awaits N’Assembly Approval to Settle N2tn Liabilities to Oil Marketers, Contractors Says subsidy deal sealed by past govt not drafted in national interest continue to engage marketers to avert crisis

NNPC: We’ll

Kunle Aderinokun and Ejiofor Alike The Federal Government has said it is awaiting approval of the National Assembly to settle its liabilities to fuel marketers for subsidy claims.

Minister of Finance, Mrs. Kemi Adeosun, told THISDAY yesterday that the Federal Executive Council had approved the Promissory Notes proposed to settle the subsidy arrears and other liabilities inherited from the previous administration, but required National Assembly's approval of the decision, when it resumes from recess, before the claims could be settled.

The National Assembly is billed to resume on September 19.

The minister had disclosed mid July that FEC had approved the validation of promissory notes and a debt issuance programme for payment to Federal Government contractors, its employees and state governments valued at N2.7 trillion, a breakdown of Continued on page 8

CELEBRATING WITH BELO-OSAGIE… L-R: Mr. Hakeem Belo-Osagie; Kaduna State Governor, Malam Nasir El-Rufai; and APC National Chairman, John Odigie Oyegun; during the traditional marriage of Belo-Osagie's daughter, Adesuwa, and Temitope Adekoya, held at Landmark Centre, Victoria Island Lagos ... yesterday

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ÍťËœ ͺ͸͚Ϳ Ëž T H I S DAY, T H E S U N DAY N E W S PA P E R

PAGE EIGHT

Olanipekun: Kenya S’Court Decision, Strong Message to Nigeria Tobi Soniyi, Abimbola Akosile and Akinwale Akintunde in Lagos Former President of the Nigeria Bar Association, Chief Wole Olanipekun SAN, yesterday described the Supreme Court judgement, which annulled the recent presidential election in Kenya as a strong message to Nigeria, especially the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on the need

to up their democratic game.

Olanipekun, who spoke in a telephone chat with THISDAY last night, was particularly intrigued by the timing, between the time the election petition was filed by opposition candidate, Raila Odinga, against President Uhuru Kenyatta and when the judgement was delivered by the Supreme Court, saying it is “a privilege� unprecedented in the history of Africa.

In a similar breath, a former Minister of Education, Oby Ezekwesili, has said the Nigerian judiciary has "a thing or two" to learn from their Kenyan contemporary in the promulgation of rule of law and democratic ethos.

Kenya’s Supreme Court had on Friday, September 1, annulled the country’s presidential election, which the incumbent president, Kenyatta, was declared as having

won.

The Chief Justice of Kenya’s Supreme Court, David Maraga, in his judgement held that the August 8 election was not conducted in accordance with the country’s constitution. The court ordered a new election to be held within 60 days.

Four of the six justices had maintained that irregularities tainted the integrity of the votes and therefore supported Odinga’s

petition for a nullification of the election.

Although Kenyatta accused the Supreme Court justices of being corruptly influenced to deliver the judgement against him.

It was against this landmark ruling that Olanipekun commended the judicial system in Kenya, saying, “The elections were held just recently and already the Supreme Court has ruled on the petition filed. It is a

privilege in Africa for the length of time taken by the Supreme Court to arrive at the decision.

It is a welcome development in Africa as a whole. “This is a signal to every election rigger that wherever you are in Africa, the judicial system will chain you. That decision is the rule of law at play and heavens will not fall."

Continued on page 13

AG A I N , B U H A R I E M P H AS I S E S R I G H T O F N I G E R I A N S TO L I V E , W O R K A N Y W H E R E I N T H E C O U N T RY planned meeting between Buhari and the leadership of the party. The meeting is billed to hold shortly after the Moslem Eid-el-Kabir holiday.

Some groups and individuals from Buhari’s native northern Nigeria and the southern parts of the country had of late engaged in a mutual tirade of hate speeches and actions, leading to months of tension. Things came to a head when on June 6 some youth groups in northern Nigeria, under the aegis of Coalition of Northern Groups, met in Kaduna and issued a three-month ultimatum to Nigerians of Igbo extraction to quit the North or face “visible actions� of isolation beginning from October 1, Nigeria’s national day. But Buhari emphasised in his national broadcast on August 21 that Nigerians were free to reside anywhere in the country, in apparent mention of his government’s position on the so-called quit notice to Igbos. Though, the groups have backtracked on their ultimatum.

While receiving Masari, who

was accompanied on the visit by the Emir of Daura, Alhaji Faruk Umar Faruk, and members of the state executive council, Buhari reiterated his administration’s commitment to guarantee the security of every citizen and protect them from harassments by reason of state of origin, tribe or ethnic background.

The president said, “Every Nigerian has a right to live, work and thrive in every part of the country, irrespective of their backgrounds,� according to a statement by his senior special adviser on media and publicity, Garba Shehu.

THISDAY gathered at the weekend that the date for the meeting between Buhari and the leadership of his party would be fixed as soon as he returns to Abuja from his home town, where he has spent the last couple of days holidaying with his family, friends, and relatives.

A top party stalwart who revealed details of the proposed meeting to THISDAY said the parley with the APC national

caucus would have taken place shortly after the president’s return from medical leave in the UK on August 19. But it was delayed to allow for a joint visit to Buhari by the leaders of the ruling party and the main opposition Peoples Democratic Party, which took place on August 25 in Abuja.

Summoning a non-elective national convention has been a challenge for APC since it assumed power at the national level in May 2015. APC’s inability to hold the all-important convention has raised doubts about its organisational capabilities and commitment to its own constitutional obligations.

THISDAY gathered that owing to the growing misgivings about the ruling party, the president had promised to meet the APC leadership to iron out the pending issues relating to the convention. One of the critical issues the meeting with the Buhari is expected to address is the delay in the organisation of a non-elective convention. Plans for the convention have been on the drawing board for a long time.

Party sources said the meeting between Buhari and APC leaders will also address other critical issues, such as internal party squabbles in many of its state chapters. Some of the intra-party conflicts have seemed to defy peace efforts by the national chairman, Chief John Odigie-Oyegun, and his National Working Committee.

APC has in recent times had squabbles in its state chapters in Kano, Kaduna, Kogi, Bauchi, Adamawa, Lagos, Edo, Rivers, and Bayelsa. In Kano, the tussle is between the former governor, Rabiu Kwankwaso, and his successor, incumbent Governor Abdullahi, Ganduje.

The disagreements have polarised the APC state executive.

Kaduna State Governor Nasiru El-Rufai and Senator Shehu Sani are the main rivals in the wrangling in the state chapter, while the Kogi State APC leadership has been at daggers drawn with the state governor, Yahaya Bello, in what is seen as a spill-over of his quarrel with the APC senator representing Kogi West, Dino

Meleaye. In Bauchi State, some APC stakeholders, led by Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Yakubu Dogara, are at loggerheads with the governor, Mohammed Abubakar, over control of the state party structure.

The NWC had set up a committee headed by Mr. Tony Momoh to try to resolve the crisis in its Kogi State chapter and when the problem could not be settled, the party constituted another peace committee in April headed by Idris Garba. But resolution does not seem to be in sight. Senator Chris Ngige headed the reconciliation committee for Bauchi State.

It is hoped that the president would be able to use his influence to reconcile his party members and ensure a rancour-free convention.

According to a source in the party, who did not want to be mentioned because of the sensitive nature of the issues, the party leadership had all along delayed the convening of two most important meetings, the National Executive Committee meeting and the national convention, to try to

ensure that they had the president’s active participation.

The source said, “Buhari's presence will, apart from calming nerves, help to resolve most of the protracted disputes within the party, which will enable us go into a convention as one family.�

THISDAY learnt that the meeting with the president might also examine other issues that have bothered APC leaders and members in the states. They include, principally, the demands for reorganisation of the federal cabinet, and the need to make the remaining appointments to boards of parastatals. The appointments are generally seen as a way of compensating key members and stakeholders.

Equally slated for discussion, it is gathered, is the need for government’s deliberate intervention to address the harsh economic conditions in the country and meet electoral promises as a way of reviving and boosting support for the APC federal government.

F G AWA I T S N ’AS S E M B LY ’S A P P R OVA L TO S E T T L E N 2 T N L I A B I L I T I E S TO O I L M A R K E T E R S , which include a discounted N1.93 trillion owed contractors and suppliers as well as N740 billion outstanding pensions and promotional salary arrears reconciled by a committee set up by the Ministry of Finance.

But oil marketers had recently raised the alarm about impending crisis in the downstream oil sector following the unpaid arrears and threatened to downsize their workforce. “Basically all this was inherited from previous administration.

We have proposed Promissory Notes to pay, as part of clearing inherited liabilities of over N2trillion. This was approved by FEC and now awaits the National Assembly approval when they resume,� the minister stated.

Adeosun pointed out that, when the payments are approved, some marketers that owed taxes and were indebted to the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) would fulfill such obligations before collecting their dues as part of the agreement they had with the government.

Lamenting that the subsidy deal sealed by the erstwhile administration was “not fair to government,â€? Adeosun pointed out that, they agreed with the banks to “charge interest at 26 per cent plus exchange rate differentials so it is a moving target ‌every day the bill gets bigger.â€? “It was not drafted in the national interest. It was one sided in favour of the marketers. If I owe you dollars, why charge naira interest? If you borrowed dollars, charge dollar interest which is from 10 -12 per cent

and not naira interest at 26 per cent,� she added.

About 15 months after Nigeria successfully exited the fuel subsidy regime, characterised by corruption and persistent fuel crisis, non-payment of the subsidy monies, which the marketers incurred between 2014 and 2016, has posed a fresh threat to the stability in the supply of petroleum products in the country.

The federal government on May 11, 2016 effectively ended the inefficient, ineffective and corruption-ridden fuel subsidy regime, when it adjusted the price of petrol upward, from N86.50 per litre to N145 per litre, to reflect the market dynamics, especially the volatility in exchange rate. In the circular with reference number A.4/9/017/C.2/IV/690, dated May 11, 2016, and signed by the then acting Executive Secretary of the Petroleum Products Pricing Regulatory Agency, Mrs. S.E. Iyoyo, the federal government directed the marketers of petroleum products to sell petrol within the retail price band of N135 to N145 per litre.

The marketers have repeatedly warned that unless the claims were paid, the consequences could kill not only their businesses but also worsen the liquidity crisis in the banking sector with the attendant unsavoury implications for fuel supply nationwide.

The oil marketing firms have also resolved to embark on mass retrenchment of their personnel, following the federal government’s failure to meet its outstanding subsidy obligations

to the firms.

Rising from a joint meeting held in Lagos recently, the Major Oil Marketers Association of Nigeria (MOMAN), Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN), Depot and Petroleum Products Marketers Association (DAPPMA), and Independent Petroleum Products Importers (IPPIs) stated that some of their members were already owing their workers over eight months’ salaries as a result of the $2 billion debt owed them by the federal government.

In a joint communiquĂŠ issued at the end of the meeting, the marketers said they had resolved to downsize their workforce unless the government urgently paid the accumulated debt to save their businesses from collapse. The communiquĂŠ signed by their legal adviser, Mr. Patrick Etim, stated that the marketers were indebted to Nigerian banks to the tune of over $2 billion, which was incurred on the importation of petroleum products.

The communiquÊ had noted that the federal government’s violation of the agreement reached with marketers on the payment schedule had also put the operations of many commercial banks that provided the funds in jeopardy.

The statement said, “The hope that the outstanding debt owed marketers will be paid resulting from the intervention of the vice-president, Professor Yemi Osinbajo, appears to be dashed, as the payment that was promised to take effect in July 2017 is yet to materialise. “This is devastating to

marketers, as we are being dragged daily by banks for debts owed and are under threat of putting our tank farms under receivership. “It was expected that the various meetings held between very senior government officials and the leadership of the oil dealers to resolve the issue of the outstanding debt owed oil marketers will yield the desired result, as the figures were fully

reconciled and there was a commitment from government to pay by the end of July 2017.�

Reacting to the position of the oil marketers, weekend, Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation’s spokesman, Mr. Ndu Ughammadu, stated that the corporation was also a participant in the oil marketing business and would continue to engage the marketers to avert crisis. Ughammadu noted that

both the corporation and the private marketers had a social responsibility to Nigerians. “We will continue to appeal to them not to embark on any action that will cause dislocation in products supply. We will also continue to maintain our importation levels to ensure that there is no supply disruption.

Our refineries will also continue to be functional,� he said.

K AC H I KW U : T R A N S PA R E N CY I N D E X I N O I L S E CTO R ST I L L LO W DESPITE REFORMS remains low. “The trust deficit still remains very high, people still do not trust the oil sector, they still do not trust the NNPC, they still do not trust the DPR, and they still do not trust anybody in the oil sector despite all that we have done.�

Speaking on plans to improve the industry’s transparency level, he said: “We have got to ask ourselves: how do we work with those oversight teams, the likes of NEITI, global bodies to work out a process where they can review what we do and get a benchmark where we will be happy. “Make no mistake about it, Nigerians are entitled to feel the way they do, they are entitled to ask questions, this is their resources, it doesn’t belong to those of us in the ministry. We must be able to look to data, we must be able to do pure analytical appraisals and arrive at a conclusion that is accurate, and at least access what we do in a way that is honest, as opposed to fictional.�

The minister also disclosed in the podcast which focused on his two-year at the helm of the oil sector that the government would step up its oil search not minding the challenges therein.

He said the federal government would remain bullish and not likely to slow down on its search for more oil deposits in the country despite existent challenges militating against this effort.

Kachikwu explained that Nigeria was encouraged to adopt this position by the exploits of the Americans with Shale oil.

In addition to exploring for oil in established areas with hydrocarbon potentials like the Lake Chad Basin and Benue Trough, Kachikwu said the government would further its search for oil in other parts of Nigeria with such potentials. “We have investments that we are looking at in the Benue Trough and Chad zone. It is absolutely important that just like changing the foothold on refining is going to be key for us

in stopping (petrol) importation by 2019, investments in the Lake Chad Basin and Benue Trough are going to be key. “Every part of Nigeria that has a potential for oil, we will find, if America can find oil out of Shale, Nigeria must find oil wherever it resides in Nigeria,� said Kachikwu.

An attack in July of a team of oil explorers from the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), University of Maiduguri and joint security personnel who were undertaking seismic data studies at the Lake Chad Basin, had impacted Nigeria’s oil search in the basin after President Muhammadu Buhari, asked the NNPC to resume its oil search.

Similarly, commercial oil finds in neighbouring Chad had encouraged the NNPC to go back there in November 2016 when it resumed exploration activities in Gubio; Magumeri; Monguno; Kukawa; Abadam; Guzamala; and Mobar, after getting security advice from the military.

T H I S D AY, T H E S U N D AY N E W S PA P E R ˾ SEPTEMBER 3, 2017

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SUNDAY COMMENT

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

LESSONS FROM THE KENYAN SUPREME COURT The speedy ruling on the country’s presidential election dispute holds lessons for Nigeria

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y a majority of four to two, the Supreme Court in Kenya on Friday nullified President Uhuru Kenyatta’s re-election victory as a result of irregularities committed by the election board. The court also ordered that a fresh ballot be held within 60 days. “The first respondent (the election board) failed, neglected or refused to conduct the presidential election in a manner consistent with the dictates of the constitution” Judge David Maranga, who announced the verdict, said of the August 8 presidential election that had been adjudged free and fair by local and international observers.

There are important lessons from Kenya that will serve Nigeria well, especially at this period.

One, the election was conducted less than a month ago, which implies that adjudicating on such matters need not take forever.

Two, it is clear that the process is as important as the outcome, given the reason for the cancellation of the election. Three, the Kenya Supreme Court knows something that is hardly ever appreciated by the apex court in Nigeria: in the complementary duality of law and order, the latter sometimes precedes the former.

The threat to public peace that has followed the disputed results touches on national security while the Kenyan Supreme Court has delivered a ruling that should settle the matter definitively and thus restore order in the polity.

It is also gratifying that politicians and public officials in Kenya respect the judiciary and would subject themselves to the instrumentality of the law in the settlement of disputes. Following the cancellation, President Uhuru Kenyatta said he would abide by the verdict, despite the fact that he disagreed with the principles of it. “We believe in the rule of law,” the president said, before adding that, “six people have decided they will go against the will of the people.”

However, what should be of utmost interest to Nigeri-

ans remains the speed with which the entire process was concluded. It took exactly two weeks between the time the case was filed and when the judgment was delivered and less than a month to the conduct of the election. The lesson is simple: In election and other related matters where order and national stability are at issue, a sensible judiciary must act expeditiously.

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In election and other related matters where order and national stability are at issue, a sensible judiciary must act expeditiously

Letters to the Editor

S U N DAY N E W S PA P E R EDITOR TOKUNBO ADEDOJA DEPUTY EDITORS VINCENT OBIA, OLAWALE OLALEYE 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, IJEOMA NWOGWUGWU GROUP FINANCE DIRECTOR OLUFEMI ABOROWA DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS PETER IWEGBU, FIDELIS ELEMA, ANTHONY OGEDENGBE DEPUTY DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OJOGUN VICTOR DANBOYI SNR. ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR ERIC OJEH, PATRICK EIMIUHI ASSOCIATE DIRECTORS HENRY NWACHOKOR, SAHEED ADEYEMO CONTROLLERS ABIMBOLA TAIWO, UCHENNA DIBIAGWU, NDUKA MOSERI GROUP HEAD FEMI TOLUFASHE ART DIRECTOR OCHI OGBUAKU II DIRECTOR, PRINTING PRODUCTION CHUKS ONWUDINJO TO SEND EMAIL: first name.surname@thisdaylive.com

he pertinent question therefore is: why is it that in Nigeria our own judicial processes take ages and most often end up with some shameful array of judgments that are sometimes delivered long after the public may have forgotten what the matter was about in the first place?

That question is particularly important against the background that the rules of procedure of our courts actually prescribe a more speedy process than what currently obtains. That explains why the Supreme Court could ensure that all pre-election disputes were determined before the Ondo State governorship election last year. But the same court is yet to conclude similar cases in a few other states even when it is empowered to announce a judgment and give reasons at a later date. What that suggests is that the delays in our judicial system are deliberate acts. For it to stop, critical stakeholders must work to restore integrity to the bar and the bench in the country.

Indeed, it should worry the authorities that delay in the hearing of cases in Nigeria is fast assuming the dimension of organised crime in which the principal actors are lawyers, judges and judicial staff. This is despite the fact that the 2009 fundamental enforcement procedure rules have efficacious provisions for enforcing the rights of our citizens. The anachronistic doctrine of locus standi and statute of limitation have been abolished while preliminary objections shall be argued together with the substantive matters. But senior lawyers have now developed the illegal practice of subjecting witnesses to unending cross examinations lasting several days with Judges indulging them.

Clearly, the trouble with our judiciary entails a total systemic overhaul which is a political action. Expecting the same politicians who are often the initiators and beneficiaries of the prevailing judicial rascality to carry out such an exercise may appear farfetched. But it is in their enlightened interest to do so.

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 (950- 1000 words). They should be sent to opinion@thisdaylive.com along with the email address and phone numbers of the writer.

S TARTIMES , C HINESE A ND R ACISM

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igeria and China in terms of diplomacy have come a long way.

Economically, China and Nigeria have a robust trade balance.

Last year, the charge d’affairs of Chinese Embassy in Nigeria, Qin Jain revealed that the bilateral trade volume between China and Nigeria from January to June of last year stood at $6.46 billion.

This represented 7.6 per cent between China and Africa and 36.4 per cent of total trade volume between China and ECOWAS. China is also a country of interest for lots of Nigerian students interested in learning the Chinese language. But there is a major problem that has lingered in the way Chinese investors in Nigeria have carried on with their operations.

Specifically, as it relates to the treatment they give to local staff in Nigeria, there have been series of reports bothering on lack of respect for labour rights. Besides, there are protests over the poor state of workers security even as Nigerians working in the Chinese firms don’t enjoy life insurance policies should they suffer fatalities or industrial accidents.

For years, Nigerian workers in many of the Chinese firms operating in Nigeria have complained of racism and poor standards of welfare in their places of work.

In June this year, a worker with Bedmate Furniture Company, Magboro, Ogun State, William Ekanem, was in pain after his spinal bone was allegedly damaged by his Chinese boss.

It was learnt that the Chinese, who is skilled in kung fu, had demanded to see a bag of rice

which Ekanem bought from a foodstuff seller on the premises of the company. The 27-year-old had reportedly challenged the Chinese for poking his nose into his personal business.

After forcefully checking the content, Ekanem said he was leaving when his boss allegedly gave him a kick in the back, which sent him sprawling on the ground. The suspect was said to have stamped his foot on the victim before he was rescued by some other workers on the premises. It was gathered that since the incident, Ekanem had not been able to walk well or stand straight.

The victim said although the case was reported at the Ibafo Police Station, nothing was done as the complainant was accused of exaggerating the assault. The matter was taken up by a human rights advocacy group which reportedly

won a paltry N3 million settlements for the injured Nigerian worker.

In another firm dominated by Chinese called STARTIMES -a cable television conglomerate that partners with the Nigeria Television Authority, allegations of racism have also arisen recently.

Some specific media reports have celebrated the story of the persistent allegations of racism in this firm which has won the hearts and minds of Nigerian subscribers because of the rich variety of contents and programmes aired on their network at giveaway fees compared to the expensive services rendered by the South African owned Multichoice.

StarTimes came under weighty allegations of systemic racism and anti-labour practices by its Nigerian employees and ex-staff.

News report has it that five Nigerian senior management staff and junior executives recently resigned from the

company also known as NTA-Star TV Network following alleged widespread discontent between the Chinese handlers who occupy the topmost seats and many Nigerian senior staff.

The ex-staff reportedly made various accusations against the management, mainly Chinese nationals bordering on what they described as deepseated discrimination, management highhandedness and widespread discontent.

But Henry Eyo, director of Human Resources at the company has described the allegations as “very untrue and quite unfortunate”.

The question which we will be seeking answers in the following days will include the need to unravel why there are no such effective mechanisms in place in Nigeria for adequately investigating such weighty allegations of racism.

Emmanuel Onwubiko, Head, Human Rights Writers Association

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T H I S D AY, T H E S U N D AY N E W S PA P E R ˾ EPTEMBER 3, 2017

SUNDAYNEWS

News Editor Abimbola Akosile E-mail: abimbola.akosile@thisdaylive.com, 08023117639 (sms only)

Anambra Guber: Nonindigene, Farmer Emerge BNPP, ID Candidates David-Chyddy Eleke in Awka

UNITED WE STAND!

L-R: President of Arewa Transformation and Empowerment Initiative (ATEI), Alhaji Mohammed Danjuma; Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) Leader, Nnamdi Kanu; and Air Peace Airlines and Foundation for Ethnic Harmony in Nigeria (FEHN), Allen Onyema, during a meeting in Affara, Umuahia, Abia State...recently

Flood Sacks Benue Communities, Victims Recount Ordeal t 2,600 houses built across drainages, water channels slated for demolition t NEMA arrives with relief materials from Abuja George Okoh in Makurdi and Kasim Sumaina in Abuja

Communities in Benue State devastated by torrential rainfall and flooding have been counting their losses. Over 2,769 households were affected and many residents of Makurdi, the state capital have since fled their homes.

THISDAY gathered that the state government has designated two shelters to accommodate 82,139 victims, while properties, farm produce and businesses estimated at millions of Naira have been lost to the flood.

According to the Executive Secretary of the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Mr. Boniface Ortese, places affected included Achusa, Idye, Wurukum Market, Genabe, Industrial Layout, Demekpe, Wadata Market, Katungu, behind the Civil Service Commission, Agboughul-Wadata among others in Makurdi.

He said, “In Achusa, 200 houses were affected with 5,125 persons displaced. In Idye, 217 houses with 5,200 persons displaced. Also, behind the Civil Service Commission, 200 houses were submerged in flood and 5,777 persons were displaced.

“At Genabe, 200 houses were affected with 5,021 persons displaced, 218 houses around the Wurukum Market were affected with 1,000 persons displaced, and at Wadata Market, 150 houses were affected and 4,300 persons were displaced.”

“Similarly at Industrial Layout, 69 houses

were flooded and 4,310 persons displaced; Demekpe 111 houses were affected while 7,820 persons displaced,” the official said.

Ortese further said 137 houses were flooded in Katungu, with 6,031 persons displaced, while at Agboughul-Wadata, 201 houses were affected and 5,728 persons displaced.

He said SEMA, in conjunction with the National Emergency Management Agency, NEMA, have embarked on an assessment visit to the affected areas to assess the level of damage. He disclosed that the federal government has provided food and other relief materials to the victims of the flood disaster through NEMA. As an immediate measure to combat the flood, the General Manager, Urban Development Board, Mr. Richard Agwa disclosed that already over 2,600 houses built across drainages and water channels have been earmarked for demolition. Agwa said he was awaiting approval for the demolition from the State Executive Council. One of the affected residents at the Media Village, Mr. George Okoh, a staff member of THISDAY Newspaper, said the flood could have drowned his entire family.

Okoh said, “At about 1.00 am (Wednesday), the rains became heavier and when we woke up in the morning, our rooms were completely flooded. In fact, if not for some neighbours who alerted us, we would have probably drowned in the room and as you can see, the place is deserted and it is a major disaster. I have evacuated my family to a safer place. Our properties were destroyed.”

Another resident narrated that three of his neighbours were not so lucky, as they reportedly drowned in the water.

A statement by MEMA’s Media Head, Sani Datti said following the directive of President Muhammadu Buhari, its Director General, Engr. Mustapha Maihaja sent a reinforcement of another contingent of humanitarian officers headed by Director (Search and Rescue), Air Commodore Paul Ohemu, from the headquarters in Abuja in addition to the officers of the North Central Zonal Office in Jos, were drafted to deliver immediate humanitarian assistance to the affected persons in the various.

“Seven 30-tonne trucks filled with relief materials arrived Makurdi at the weekend. The relief materials were made of 27 different items including foodstuff, rice, children clothes, building materials, foodstuffs and other household items” the statement added.

Hinting on one of the measures to halt the flooding, Maihaja said the agency had not received any official communication from the Cameroonian government on the possibility of opening Lagdo Dam that caused the 2012 flood.

The State Commissioner for Water Resources and Environment, Mr. Joseph Utsev admitted that the state was not prepared for the volume of flood that confronted it.

Utsev said Makurdi Township lacked drainages that could channel rainwater into River Benue. He also added that River Benue needed to be dredged to avoid a repetition of the 2012 disaster.

IPOB: Biafra Security Services Set up to Protect Igbo from Fulani Herdsmen David-Chyddy Eleke in Awka

The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has explained that the Biafra Security Service (BSS) was designed to protect Biafran villages from Fulani herdsmen attack.

The group was reacting to treason charges levelled against it by concerned Nigerians who view the setting up of the group as treasonable.

But in a press release by the group’s publicity secretary, Mr. Emma Powerful, the group said it would not go back on the formation of the group, and was not ready

to contest the formation with anyone as the outfit would remain.

He said, “IPOB will not be in contest with anybody or group about the formation of the BSS. Biafra Security Service is a security outfit only designed to protect Biafran villages from Fulani herdsmen attack. It is not in competition with the police and will not perform any duties outside safeguarding returnees from the North and checkmating Fulani herdsmen attack.

“It’s like any other vigilante group but this has a national colouration in that protection is Biafra-wide. There is nothing

treasonable about protecting our farms and villages from Fulani herdsmen. People should stop turning English language upside down.”

Powerful said there was nothing treasonable about exercising the right to self-determination and securing lives and properties.

“In Arewa North, there are Hisbah, Sharia Police and other forms of Islamic security. Why can’t Biafrans have their own security to protect innocent mothers and our women from being raped and killed

by Fulani herdsmen?” he queried.

The Better Nigeria Peoples Party (BNPP) has elected a non-indigene of Anambra State, Chief Ikem Ohanugo, as its governorship candidate for the November 18 poll.

Similarly, the Independent Democrat has also elected a farmer, Mr. Franklin Ndife, as its flag-bearer for the same governorship election, contrary to popular practice where core politicians jostle to land the coveted ticket.

The BNPP candidate, Ohanugo, who hails from Imo State, was unanimously elected in a voice vote by 42 delegates drawn from the 21 local government areas of the state.

Announcing the winner in Awka, the state party chairman, who doubled as the primary election chairman, Hon. Emeka Obiako described the exercise as peaceful, decent and free of rancour.

He said the choice of the flag-bearer by the party was to prove that there is no difference between Anambra and Imo states, and that a nonindigene can govern the state better than most of its citizens.

“My candidate is not even from Anambra, but fromImo.WewanttoshowthemthatAnambraand Imo are the same. Ikem was born and bred in Onitsha. Someone who has lived in Onitsha for decades can be said to be a citizen of Anambra.

“His father was the first and best chairman of the old Onitsha local government area comprising of Onitsha north, south and Ogbaru. He was also the first chairman of the Onitsha Market Traders Association (OMATA)”, he said.

Obiako described the party’s candidate as a humble and unassuming, seasoned politician, whose friendly disposition extends to all, irrespective of religious affiliation and geographical location. In his acceptance speech,Ohanugo Ikem saidhe would encourage non indigenous policies, and revotionalise agriculture and industrialisation in the state, if voted into power.

Meanwhile, Ndife, a 35-year-old farmer, who was elected by 243 delegates of the party, said in his acceptance speech that he would work to stamp out poverty and also ensure youth empowerment of the people if elected governor of the state.

20 Confirmed Dead in Edo Road Crash Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City

Tragedy struck in Edo State weekend following the death of 20 persons, a majority of whom were travelling home for the Eid-el-Kabir celebration on Friday.

The unfortunate incident, as gathered by THISDAY, occurred on Isi road, off Ugoneki/ Agbor road in Uhunmwode local government area of the state.

According to a sympathiser, the accident would not have occurred, but for the Benin-Ekpoma-Auchi road which is in a state of dilapidation, which prompted motorists to pass through the Isi-Ogwa-Igueben through Uromi before they can navigate back to the proper route to avoid the bad spots.

The accident, THISDAY gathered, occurred at about 6:30pm and happened when a commercial bus marked ABD 206XA on its way to Auchi, which had to pass though Isi, had a head-on collision with a truck laden with livestock coming to Benin, the state capital.

According an eye witness account, 16 passengers were said to have died on the spot, as the bus was severely wrecked, while eight other sustained varying degrees of injuries. It was it was gathered that five of the injured later died in a hospital.

A witness, who refused to be mentioned, said some of the deceased comprised a family traveling for the Eid-el-Kabir celebration.

Confirming the incident, Edo State Sector Command, Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) Public Relations Officer, George Otoaviokhai, said the bus had attempted to overtake another vehicle in front of it when it rammed into the truck, marked DRZ347 XA, on the other lane.

He attributed the accident to dangerous overtaking, adding that the incident was avoidable.

“There was a vehicle in front of the bus; the bus was trying to overtake. That was not even needed.

T H I S D AY SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 3, 2017

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SUNDAYNEWS Eid-el-Kabir: CAN, PFN, Govs Advocate Peace, Unity Abimbola Akosile in Lagos, Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City, Mohammed Aminu in Sokoto, Segun Awofadeji in Bauchi and Laleye Dipo in Minna As Muslims in Nigeria join their counterparts all over the world in celebrating this year Eid-el-Kabir, the President, Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Rev Dr.

Samson Ayokunle, has rejoiced with the followers of Islam on behalf of the Christians in the country.

Ayokunle, who felicitated with the Muslims alongside several State governors and the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), seized the occasion to task both the government at all levels and the governed to work

harmoniously in addressing the economic hardship occasioned by recession and its attendant problems. He also prayed for the unity and peace of the country in a time like this.

In a statement issued by his Special Assistant (Media and Communications), Pastor Adebayo Oladeji in Abuja, the CAN President urged all and sundry

to douse the tension in the land because “no country has ever survived two civil wars�. “As faithful Muslims celebrate this year’s Eid-el-Kabir to commemorate Prophet Ibrahim’s obedience to Allah, it is imperative to remind them what the Holy Quran says that; It is not their meat or their blood that reaches Allah. It is your piety that

reaches Him,� (Qur’an, 22:37). “I urge the Muslim leaders in the country to join hands with us in our vision to have a nation where social justice, equity, peace, unity and progress are her hallmarks. It is also imperative to remind them that their piety should go beyond the celebrations in order to compliment the efforts of the government in

EID MUBARAK Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode, exchanging pleasantries with the Onimedu of Orimeduland, Oba Amusa Atiku, and Onitedo Oke Odo Iwerekun, Oba Tajudeen Elemoro, during the Eid-El-Kabir celebration, tagged “Odun Ileya Get-Together�, at one of the designated centres, in Ibeju-Lekki, Lagos, on Saturday

Erdogan Felicitates with Buhari on Recovery Omololu Ogunmade in Abuja Turkey’s President, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, yesterday congratulated President Muhammadu Buhari on his recovery from an undisclosed ailment.

A statement by the president’s spokesman, Malam Garba Shehu, said Buhari con-

tinued to receive felicitations from prominent personalities and leaders across the world; following what he described as his remarkable recovery from the medical condition that took him abroad.

He said the Turkish leader also exchanged Eid greetings with Buhari and both leaders

wished each other good health and success in their endeavours.

He added that both presidents also discussed the forthcoming D8 summit in Istanbul and equally extended their greetings and good wishes to citizens of their countries. “The two leaders also

discussed at length, the forthcoming 9th Summit of D8, the Organisation for Economic Cooperation at the end of October in Istanbul. Mr. Erdogan extended an invitation to President Buhari for his participation. President Buhari expressed his gratitude for the good wishes,� Garba said.

TEXEM Holds Executive Programme in Lagos Tope Omabegho These Executive Minds (TEXEM), a leading UK based company that specialises in delivering value adding educational programmes that address the needs of executives of organisations in the African private and public sector, is inviting executives to its upcoming Executive Master Class.

With the theme, ‘Influencing and Negotiating for Value Creation in Turbulent Times and Prosperity’, the two-day programme, which kicks off between September 6 and 7, is billed to hold at the Intercontinental Hotel, Victoria Island,

Lagos.

The training, according to a release, aims to empower senior executives with the tools and practical experiences, which they require to identify and transform the analytical challenges associated with influencing and negotiating.

The guest lecturers expected at the event are former Commander-in-Chief, Land Forces. Senior Associate Fellow at Royal United Services Institute, General Sir Nick Parker and Founding Director of Ambassador Partnerships and Former Director of British Gas and Ambassador of UK to Portugal, Ambassador John

Buck.

The two renowned faculties were carefully chosen based on their excellent skills sets, combined experience of about eighty years and unparalleled expertise in leading and influencing in over fifty countries.

According to the press release from the organisers, “the programme is very beneficial for every organisation as they engage in influencing and negotiating daily, but few succeed at it. “For organisations to excel, there is an urgent need for leaders to become aware of the various influencing and negotiating strategies for

value-creation for multiple stakeholders. Thus, it is necessary for executives to hone their ability to plan, analyse, and deliver superior influencing and negotiating outcomes successfully.�

The release stated further that “This programme will enable participants to engage in different real life influencing and negotiating situations that will lead to the assessment of personal hindrances and potential drivers of interpersonal encounters, structural problems such as misaligned frames or poor management of the entire process and ineffective communication.�

making the dream of our founding fathers a reality�, Ayokunle noted. “CAN also rejoices with the First Family and the Federal Government for the restoration of the health of President Muhammadu Buhari as we charge the government to reduce the cost of living that has reached alarming level. “It is high time when the government at all levels must wake up to their responsibilities with a view to reducing the economic hardship and the tension in the land because no country has ever survived two civil wars. The political class must fulfil all their promises made during the last electioneering as they are warming up for another general election. Their words should be their bound. “We are tired of hearing billions and trillions of Naira they are sharing among the three tiers of government in Abuja with little or nothing to show on ground.

The time has come when our leaders must be held accountable for our commonwealth under their watch�, the body noted. “CAN as a body wants our country to remain one but we also want the lopsidedness in the polity to be addressed and it is because both the National Assembly and the National Council of State have failed to address it that is making all well-meaning across all the divides to be calling for the restructuring� it added.

The Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) has also felicitated with the Muslims in Nigeria on the celebration of this year’s EidEl-Kabir.

National President of PFN, Rev. Dr. Felix Omobude, in his Sallah message congratulated the Muslims faithful and urged them to demonstrate the virtues of love and sacrifice which are the hallmarks of the Eid-El-Kabir festival.

FEHN to Train OPC, IPOB, Arewa Members on Ethic Harmony Chinedu Eze The Foundation for Ethnic Harmony in Nigeria (FEHN) has concluded plans to train 45 members of the Oodua People Congress (OPC), Arewa Youths and Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) on ethnic harmony and how to entrench peace and unity in Nigeria.

This was disclosed by the Chairman, FEHN, Allen Onyema who said trainers who specialise in conflict resolution would come from the United States next week to organise the training and after the training in Nigeria; while the beneficiaries would also be taken overseas for further training at FEHN’s expense.

He said the objective of the training is to make the beneficiaries to eschew all those things that create division among ethnic nationalities and to see and help to build Nigeria as one, united entity and also help to galvanise their members to unite and campaign for one united Nigeria.

Onyema said his Foundation has been promoting peace and unity in Nigeria, an effort started during the Niger Delta militancy, which contributed immensely in quelling the crisis in that part of the country. “As first effort we are training 45 youths from OPC, Arewa and IPOB. The trainers will soon arrive Nigeria. This is our effort to ensure that Nigeria remains one united country. The truth is that we are better off living together and if any part of this country splits, it can never rise to any level compared to if all Nigerians are living together because this country is a great country, which we must work hard to sustain. “One thing you cannot take away from Nigeria is our resilience and this resilience comes from the fact that most Nigerian want to remain Nigerians. I think what most people are against is perceived injustice or imbalance but the most beautiful thing is that most people want one, big Nigeria than a fragmented Nigeria,� Onyema said.

T H I S D AY, T H E S U N D AY N E W S PA P E R ˾ SEPTEMBER 3, 2017

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NEWS

Ngige: Negotiation with ASUU Continues this Week Says no uncertainty over talks Senator Iroegbuin Abuja The Minister of Labour and Employment, Senator Chris Ngige has dispelled speculations of uncertainty over talks between the Federal Government and the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU).

To this end, Ngige assured stakeholders and Nigerians that suspended talks with the union to end the protracted industrial action would continue this week immediately after the Sallah break.

The Minister, in a statement yesterday by the Deputy Director Press, Ministry of Labour and Employment, Samuel Olowookere said he, as the chief conciliator of industrial disputes

in the country and the Minister of Education whose Ministry is the employer of the university teachers, are still leading the talks.

In view of its determination to end every disruption in the academic calendar of universities, Ngige informed all stakeholders and the general public that conciliation with the university teachers will resume immediately after the Sallah break as requested by ASUU. He said the consultation at the office of the Vice President by both Ministers after last Wednesday’s Federal Executive Council meeting was in consolidation of the negotiations so far held with ASUU. Part of the statement reads: “The Vice President has not taken

over the matter. The meeting in his office was in consolidation of negotiations. Engagement of the striking ASUU members is still being handled by Ministers of Labour and Employment and the Minister of Education.

“Issues of strike by an employee is a labour matter. The Minister of Labour and Employment is therefore synergising

with his Education counterpart where the strike occurred to resolve the dispute.

“Just as the Minister of Labour and Employment led negotiation with the National Association of Resident Doctors in conjunction with the Minister of Health, the same applies in the case of ASUU. “As a matter of fact, the Minister of Education reported prog-

ress on the issue to the Federal Executive Council and together with the Labour Minister held a meeting with the Vice President subsequently. This is normal procedure in government where Ministers report to the President or Vice President to streamline efforts and gains in a given assignment. But that does not entail such assignment is no more being

handled by the Minister charged with the responsibility.”

The statement added that the Minister of Labour specifically told reporters that the government negotiating team on ASUU strike was to meet with the Vice President. “It was reporters that interpreted it to mean the Vice President has taken over negotiation”, it concluded.

King Alfred Spiff Suspended from TROMPCON Okon BasseyinUyo The former Governor of old Rivers State, His Royal Majesty, King Alfred Diete Spiff, has been suspended indefinitely as a member of the Traditional Rulers of Oil Mineral Producing Communities of Nigeria (TROMPCON) over activities inimical to the body.

By the suspension, King Spiff has also been barred from parading himself with the title of the National Life Patron of TROMPCON. Members of TROMPCON took the decision to suspend Spiff at an emergency general meeting of the National Executive Council held at the palace of the National Chairman, HRM, Owong Effiong Archianga in Ibeno Local Government area of Akwa Ibom State.

A resolution adopted at the end of the meeting stressed that his readmission into the body

if necessary shall be dependent on his remorsefulness and the prerogative of the National Conference of TROMPCON. The body noted that the activities of King Spiff had been an embarrassment to the Oba of Benin in particular and TROMPCON in general.

According to the body, “the disqualification of Spiff came on the strength of Article three (3) sub- section two (2)c of TROMPCON Constitution which provides that ‘a member shall be liable for disqualification if his activities are not in consonance with the principle and objectives of TROMPCON’.

The body noted with dismay what they described as the conscious but deplorable attempt by HRM King Spiff to create unwarranted confusion in TROMPCON by embarking on anti-TROMPCON activities.

DESERVED HONOUR L-R: Co-founder, Young CEO Business Forum, Amb. James Egwu, presenting the Business Personality of the Year award to the Chief Executive Officer of NEDCOM Oaks, Dr. Kennedy Okonkwo at the 2017 African Entrepreneurs Merit Award in Abuja...at the weekend

Olanipekun: Kenya S’Court Decision, Strong Message to Nigeria Cont’d from 8 “It is also a warning to INEC in Nigeria to put its house in order.

It is also a warning to all electoral commissions in Africa to avoid being pocketed by political parties or candidates. Political parties across Africa want to take democracy to extinction. When preparing for election, they prepare to rig and snatch ballot boxes. Let Africa practise democracy as it should be practised.”

The former NBA president, who also commended the judiciary in Nigeria and the rest of Africa, added: “I commend the Nigerian judiciary; a time will come when the judiciary will stamp its authority on judicial matters involving electoral processes. Let us salute the judiciary in Nigeria and Africa”.

Although he admitted that the Supreme Court in Nigeria was currently over-burdened, Olanipekun recommended that all National Assembly election petition matters should also get to the Supreme Court for final adjudication.

“Let National Assembly

election petition matters get to the Supreme Court, even though the Supreme Court is overburdened,” he said, lamenting that Nigeria still has a long way to go to perfect its electoral process, because according to him, “Even though democracy started in 1979, we are still in the teething period.”

Using her twitter handle: @ obyezeks, Ezekwesili wrote: “So, the Kenyans have scored the unprecedented through their judiciary! Cannot thank them enough for helping Africa discuss the judiciary.

“Hopefully, our Nigerian judiciary, which suffers from serious public trust deficit, can learn a thing or two from their Kenyan contemporary. We lost all when our judiciary (broadly justice system) stopped being trustworthy.

The Kenyans have a lesson for us.

Shall we learn?”

Describing the development as a positive upswing in a new African political thinking, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Chief Sebastine Hon, likened the decision to the Nigerian 2015 general

election, where an incumbent was not only defeated but went ahead to concede defeat.

“The decision is salutary and most welcome. I must congratulate the Kenyan people in particular and Africans in general for this feat. Remember, the post-election violence was so determined and seemingly unstoppable that we watchers knew something grave had gone wrong with the elections.

“Recent happenings on the political landscape of Africa, including the defeat of a sitting president – Goodluck Jonathan and his voluntary concession of defeat – all point to the fact that there is a positive upswing in African political thinking.

“And with the pronouncement of the Kenyan Supreme Court, I think Africans are beginning to think out of the box now.

The trend is most welcome and should spread like wild harmattan fire across Africa. Wake me up in the middle of the night; I will still be celebrating this victory for not just democracy, but also the

rule of law, in Africa. It is an emerging trend that must be supported by all persons of good will.” In a somewhat terse reaction, a former Chairman of the Governing Council of the National Human Rights Commission, Dr. Chidi Odinkalu commended the Kenyan Supreme Court for standing up to politicians.

He said: “Three weeks ago, Kenya police were shooting, after the judgment. They joined in celebrating. What a difference a credible court can make!”

Equally, a former governorship aspirant and human rights lawyers, Dr. Tunji Abayomi, in his own reaction noted that the development in Kenya affirmed the advancement in thinking that there was a growing interest in due process.

Speaking also in a telephone chat with THISDAY, he said “Unfortunately, I would have preferred that this advancement first happened in Nigeria, because it’s a major shift. Kenya has a lesson to teach us that no matter how powerful a government is,

democracy is about the law. This is actually one of the major problems in Africa – the capacity of the courts to pronounce regardless of who. Looking at Nigeria, you can hardly find such.

“Most of the Supreme Courts in Africa tend to blow mute trumpet, when it comes to situation that will denounce victory, especially for the incumbent President,” Abayomi added.

A Political Science lecturer at the University of Lagos, Dr. Emmanuel Onah, also said the annulment of Kenya’s presidential election would strengthen Africa’s democratic process and make African politicians to realise that political power should be acquired legitimately.

“It is a strong message to politicians across the continent that political power must be acquired legitimately. The ruling also affirms that Africa is moving away from obliging electoral fraudsters, who grab power or acquire it by trick. It is one ruling that shows that Africa is not afraid to confront illegality even at the top-most

level of governance if it requires inconveniencing ourselves.”

He therefore underscored the need for the judicial arm of government of other African countries to take a cue from Kenya’s Temple-of-Justice to assert their independence, because according to him, judicial interpretations constitute the most potent force against the misuse of the power of incumbency.

The university don added that public institutions of African countries were bound to be more edified in terms of their powers to act as “check and balances’’ on political office holders.

“This is a clear message for our electoral tribunals (in Nigeria) not to uphold questionable election victories and to desist from giving favourable judgments to incumbents based on technical flaws in the petitioner’s pursuit of justice.

“It is also a lesson for us as a country to move away from contradictory, conflicting and confusing rulings on election matters which has become pervasive in our nation,’’ he said.

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OPINION The President’s Address and Other Matters Gozie Irogboli argues why President Buhari’s speech is disappointing

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n Monday, August 21, 2017, President Muhammadu Buhari addressed the expectant Nigerian public in a nationwide broadcast on his return to the country after spending 104 days on medical leave outside the country. The said address was about five minutes terse and incongruous speech presented as if it was for military boys in a parade ground. Although, the speech did properly address the myriads of issues confronting the nation, yet it is too provocative to be ignored.

The summary of the president’s speech is that the unity of Nigeria is settled and non-negotiable and that the perceived trouble makers referred to as ‘irresponsible elements’ and ‘political mischief makers’ threatening the unity of the nation will be dealt with. The speech is clearly evasive, foreboding, uninspiring and disappointing in that it did not address the core issues of resentment, discontent and current realities in the land.

Interestingly, the president’s speeches and utterances have often generated controversies and cynicism among Nigerians.

For instance, in a press interview in a foreign land some time in 2015, the president openly stated that it would be unfair for him to treat everybody equally after stating in his inaugural address to the nation after his swearing in on May 29, 2015, among other things that: ‘I intend to keep my oath and serve as President to all Nigerians. I belong to everybody and I belong to nobody’. Again, at a public broadcast on September 8, 2016, during the launching of “Change begins with me� campaign, there was also an error of plagiarism as his speech contained some lines taken from Obama’s November 4, 2008 victory speech to Americans.

The speech did not inspire any confidence in the ability of the government to tackle the plethora of challenges facing the nation neither did it show the willingness of the government to do so. It did not elicit trust in the sincerity of the government in the handling of national issues neither did it give any hope to the masses suffering on the throes of harsh economic condition.

Indeed, it was a golden opportunity wasted. The speech seems to indicate that the only thing the president understands is command and control.

There is no doubt that the president’s orientation as a soldier is affecting the way he thinks and talks but his speeches and utterances should be what they are supposed to be: thorough, well thought-out, not an address to hooligans or social deviants. The president’s speech writers obviously have a lot of work to do to spice up his speeches to give them the required civil complexion.

Clearly, the broadcast shows that the president and his team seem not to understand the mood and the needs of the nation at the moment or that they negligently choose to ignore them. I had expected an address that will cool frayed nerves, douse tension and palpable fears in the land but what was put to us is more or less an affront on the people. The mood of the nation does not require this

cavalier military style address. It is as unprecedented as it is ‘unpresidential’. The president may have mistaken the attitude of his fawning aides and the borrowed crowd that greeted him on his return to the country from medical leave to mean that all is well. Obviously, the president and his men need tutorials in the area of constructive civil and stakeholder engagement. I must say that Nigerians are longer impressed or intimidated by the hackneyed crush-smash rumblings of the military era.

I had expected a conciliatory speech where he would thank Nigerians sincerely for their patience and understanding in the face of harsh economic condition, acknowledge the enormity of problems his administration has created by omission and commission, make a passionate appeal for calm and patience, recognise the right to lawful agitations and make an appeal to the agitators to be peaceful and give assurances of measures to expeditiously address their grievances and a make definite pronouncement about the burning issue of restructuring. More specifically, I had expected that he would dwell more on the nation’s current precarious economy and the steps his government would take to rejig it.

Of course, the critical issues about reviving our ailing economy, restructuring the nation and insecurity were glaringly ignored or glossed over. Obviously, his major concern was how to tackle those he referred to as ‘irresponsible elements’ and ‘political mischief makers’.

Why is the president so irritated about agitators? Why is he so tetchy about social media when he has a Special Assistant on social media, the same platform he used to launch his electoral campaign? In his inaugural speech to the nation on May 29, 2015, he openly acknowledged the contribution of the social media in his purported electoral victory thus: ‘I thank those who tirelessly carried the campaign on the social media’.

Moreover, in the said broadcast, the president made reference to ‘legitimate concerns’ and ‘grievances’ without telling us the measures to properly address them. Is it to suppress and crush agitators? How

The critical issues about reviving our ailing economy, restructuring the nation and insecurity were glaringly ignored or glossed over. Obviously, his major concern was how to tackle those he referred to as ‘irresponsible elements’ and ‘political mischief makers’. Why is the president so irritated about agitators? Why is he so tetchy about social media, the same platform he used to launch his electoral campaign?

can the ‘political evolution and integration as well as lasting peace among all Nigerians’ stated in the speech be attained without robust stakeholder engagements and civil advocacy? Agitations are parts of the dynamics of democracy. Sometimes too, they are the manifestation of the failure of governance and trying to suppress them instead of addressing them is clearly counter intuitive. Lawful agitations are no threat to national unity. The only visible threats to national unity now are: the divisive tendencies of the government, its crude exclusionist and revanchist policies, the outmoded antics of the ruling party, bad governance, and corruption occasioned by nepotism, favouritism, ineptitude and injustice.

Nigeria does not need a killer squad that will molest hapless citizens, intimidate and suppress opposition, criticisms, civil advocacy and lawful agitations neither does it need a propaganda team that makes needless excuses and feed Nigerians with senseless prevarications.

What Nigeria needs is a functional economic planning and implementation teams that will initiate, formulate policies and actions required to rejig our prostrate economy and pull it out of the doldrums. We need a restructuring, national reconciliation and re-orientation team that will do constructive stakeholders’ engagement and properly address disparate interests.

Instructively, the reference to renewed onslaught against Boko Haram indicates that the government had previously been economical with the truth as regards the true situation of the war with the insurgents. During the campaign prelude to his election in 2015, the president promised to crush Boko Haram in few months upon assumption of office and in December, 2015 after about six months in office, he announced to the whole nation that Boko Haram has been defeated and that they are only looking for soft targets. And, in December, 2016, the government declared again that Boko Haram has been defeated, brandishing their flag and other insignia as evidence of that claim. By April, 2017, they again negotiated with the defeated Boko Haram for the release of about 82 kidnapped Chibok girls and ever since, there have been unrestrained bombing and kidnapping by the insurgents. What could be gleaned from all of these is that the war against Boko Haram has not been won contrary to claims from official quarters.

I will advise the government to battle Boko Haram squarely and not dissipate energy chasing hapless lawful agitators.

Also, one of the glaring slip up in the speech is contained in the opening remarks, where the president referred to Nigerians as ‘my dear citizens’ instead of ‘my fellow citizens’ as if Nigerians are his subjects instead of fellow compatriots. This appears very derogatory. I have to assume it was an error and if it was, it was a very costly one.

Again, another unnecessary adjunct to the speech is the dropping of the name of the late Ikemba Nnewi, Odumegwu Ojukwu in the speech. –– Irogboli is an economist and public policy analyst

Angola’s Gifts To Africa (1) The continent should learn a thing or two from Angola, to quicken the growth it needs, writes Okello Oculi

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poem by Agustinho Neto - the soft-spoken bespectacled medical doctor who led Angola’s national liberation war till they won independence - saw a ray of sunlight entering a hole in a shack in a Luanda slum, and giving vision to those inside. It was at once delicate and a power with a mission to chase away darkness from its domination of that abode where a poor Angolan family crowded in sleep and waking. It was his announcement of the mission of his liberation tool: the Popular Movement for the Liberation of Angola (MPLA).

His urgent call to Fidel Castro for military support against a surging drive by troops of racist South Africa from their colonial base in Namibia was historic. Castro said, in an interview, that he despatched troops across the Atlantic Ocean before informing his ally the Soviet Union. In an earlier cooperation with Nikita Khrushchev over his nuclear weapons inside Cuba pointed at the United States, the Soviet leader had backed down without prior consultation with him. Angola’s freedom was too important to be sacrificed to a Soviet Cold War game of chess.

Combined troops of 370,000 Cuban soldiers; MPLA’s armed forces; troops of the African National Congress and South West Africa Peoples Organisation, broke the morale of South Africa’s troops at the battle of Cuino Quanavalle. That victory dealt a death blow to a white supremacy mythology anchoring European immigrant rule in South Africa and Namibia. A war whose flame the Liberation Committee of the Organisation of African Unity had lit in 1963, was turned into a conflagration by Cuba on the initiative of Angola’s MPLA. It is in honouring it that Nelson Mandela told the Americans to shut up when they had the audacity to demand that Fidel Castro not be invited to attend his coronation as the Prince of the end of 300 years of domination by white racists in South Africa.

The silence by African politicians, NGOs, public intellectuals and the media over Angola-Cuba contribution to the collapse of

apartheid in southern Africa is a shame. In Nigeria, the silence is accompanied with a laxity over dramatising for Nigeria’s youth a gift of diplomatic heroism by Murtala Mohammed when he achieved the recognition by Africa of the MPLA government as the legitimate authority in Angola. He had boldly blunted President Gerald Ford’s dictation to African leaders to include UNITA and FNLA as NATO’s puppets in power. That audacity almost certainly sparked his assassination in early 1976.

Castro’s justification of his historic war in Angola with the assertion that “African blood runs in the vein of Cubans’’ sent panic across the Americas. With Brazil hosting the largest black and “Mestizo’’ (mulato) population in the Americas, he was waving a political flame that could ignite forest fires in that vast land. Angola had lost millions of her sons into slavery in Brazil. As twin Portuguese colonies they spoke a common foreign language. Angolan cultural roots flower in Brazil.

Cuba’s export of her African Diaspora not as armed carriers of ‘Liberation Pan-Africanism’ to a land on the coastlines of the Atlantic Ocean, sent cold pain along spines of policy makers in Washington, London, Cape Town and Rio de Janeiro. Angola had given the African Diaspora a historic dignity once hinted by the successful slave revolution in Haiti.

Cuba sent also to Angola over 50,000 civilians consisting of doctors, nurses, policy strategists and engineers. Her policy of free education to the highest level for all Cubans was in contrast to the exclusion of the majority of Afro-Brazilians and African-Americans from quality education. Jesse Jackson, the Chicago-based Civil Rights politicians, is reported to have said that if Communism ensured the human dignity and social progress it had given Black Cubans, he wanted it for AfricanAmericans too. Africa’s Diaspora was constructing global diplomacy.

The leaders of MPLA practised “revolutionary pragmatism’’ in their relations with China and international oil companies.

One of their richest offshore oil deposits in Block 15 is shared as follows: ExxonMobil’s subsidiary Esso has 40%; British Petroleum has 27%; AGIP/ENI havev20%, and Norway’s Statoil has 13%. Angola’s own Sonangol has only 20 % share in another offshore field, Block 31, in which British Petroleum has 26% ahead of ExxonMobil with 25%.

Aware of the dominance of Angola’s oil resources by EuroAmerican companies, China sought attention from MPLA by supporting the opposition UNITA during the 27 years of civil war from 1979 to 2002. Backers of ExxonMobil and British Petroleum were bleeding Angola by also supporting secessionists in Cabinda while hauling away her rich oil. China put her toes through a crack in Angola’s oil diplomacy by offering the MPLA loans of $ 2 billion or $1 billion for development projects at very low interest rates. In exchange, they won permission to conduct joint oil explorations with state-owned Sonangol. In Block 18, however, China’s SINOPEC got 50% share at par with British Petroleum’s 50%. Angola is showing Africa profitable economic non-alignment diplomacy.

In 1992, Jonas Savimbi, leader of UNITA, claimed that the presidential election was rigged. MPLA ended electing the president by a countrywide constituency; opting for giving the prize to the leader of the party with the majority in parliament.

They also adopted a creative system of electing five representatives from each of 18 provinces. As in Japan, this allows for disadvantaged groups to enter parliament. Women went from 9 % of 220 MPs in 1995 to 31 % in 2015.

With the stability provided by 38 years of Eduardo Dos Santos guiding the focus on reconstructing the country, Angola has set a model for Rwanda to follow. MPLA stoutly ignores insults by Euro-American media of corruption; lack of freedom of the press, and suppressing the opposition: regarding them as disguises for hating China becoming the major importer of Angola’s oil.

Prof. Oculi is a member of THISDAY Editorial Board

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T H I S D AY, T H E S U N D AY N E W S PA P E R ˾ SEPTEMBER 3, 2017

LETTERS Why Nigerians Crave for Power

I

would like to join millions of Nigerians to welcome Mr President back from the UK. Our beloved president had been recuperating after treatment in a UK hospital.

Many of us who were praying for him to get well would have loved to know what the illness was, so that we did not have to pray amiss.

But well, the Lord is faithful and he directed our prayers at Mr. President’s illness so that after getting well, he needed to recuperate and convalesce. I have had cause to rebuke some of my friends who are complaining that Mr. President no try at all in not practicing what he signed on to in the UK in May last year, the Open Government Partnership, where a national action plan based on zero tolerance to corruption, citizen engagement and access to information has already been activated.

They say his not giving us information about his illness led stormy petrels like the chap in Ekiti to insinuate all manner of insinuations. But I tell them: matters of state are matters of state security. Mr President is a matter of state, and you don’t go telling those kinds of stories.

Many years ago, I was

Buhari

reading a very interesting article in a medical journal.

The top gist in the journal is that from age 50, we gradually begin to fall apart – the meter of our eyes appear all used up, our joints quiver and our vital organs like the heart, liver and lungs begin to give us problems. According to that journal, there is almost nothing anyone can do about the gradual disintegration of these organs and tissues, except perhaps to

undertake a maintenance regimen which involves regular exercise and a diet devoid of ‘sweetness’. A regular visit to the doctor for routine checks will not hurt, and I say this with reference to our pseudo-religious inclination which arrogates regular visits to the hospital to be one’s evidence of poor health. To that extent, after age 50 it is perfectly normal to take ill occasionally.

Where the problem is, is that life expectancy in Nigeria is

just a little above 50. Just so that we get a bigger picture of the situation I am trying to describe here is that whether you are of means or not, the chance is that there is nothing much you can do, apart from regular exercise and a strict diet from having prostrate, arthritis, diabetes or high blood pressure.

But often, the problem is that the regular Nigerian does not have access to those little things – health facilities, good food and access to self-maintenance facilities, which make functionality of life after age 50 a bit steady. Our hospitals are a still a little more than mere consulting clinics for ailments like prostrate, arthritis, high blood pressure. Good food is hard to come by, and those which fob off some of these ailments are beyond the reach of this regular Nigerian. The interesting thing about these ailments is that even though most first class Nigerians may often have access to these foods, an unhealthy lifestyle - a chauffeur-driven car as cold as Siberia takes them in and out of homes and offices.

Added to this is a retinue of aides who make it very easy for Oga to become sedentary.

And of course, we all know

THE POLITICISATION OF PENSION IN OSUN “The world is full of magic things, patiently waiting for our senses to grow sharper.”

T

he quote above,

by W.B. Yeats, perfectly echoed my own sentiments on reading a report in a national newspaper recently in which Governor Rauf Aregbesola of Osun was alleged by the ‘Forum of 2011/2012 Pensioners to have “paid political office holders who served between November 2010 and November 2014 the sum of N50 million each as severance allowance.”

Before all else, that “a motley crowd” has simply allowed worldly cares to obliterate its sense of the beautiful is what an observer like yours sincerely finds difficult to comprehend. For instance, findings have shown that the protesting pensioners acted against wise counsel by opting to retire from the state service at the end of 2012 because they did not want to join the new contributory pension regime, a situation that ended up unleashing an accumulated debt burden of N5bn on the state. Essentially, while it is a statement of fact that a labourer should be worthy of his hire, the tragic truth is that the socio-economic needs of the society are so huge that no government can accomplish them in a day. Osun is not an excep-

tion!

Of course, Osun is currently funds-challenged.

But Nigeria is similarly deprived! Thanks to the immediate past drivers of Nigeria’s economy who practically turned Nigeria into a pauperised, debtor enclave where borrowing money to pay money, all in the name of debt rescheduling conversion, or servicing, was fashionable.

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) summarily reduced Nigerians to a wounded people in an impossible bus and it was as if the gods were angry. The outcome of the putridity of its inanity, the extremity of its frivolity, its consolation in vainglorious fatality and the competition for space of its blind ambition for power without purpose is now staring us in the face and only a God can help us!

But, is Aregbesola antiworkers, be they active or passive? In my considered opinion, a governor that has accorded governance a new name and given us hope of a better Osun and a greater Nigeria cannot be said to be anti-workers.

His inspirational, passionate and record-breaking contributions to the transformation of Osun into “a developed, cleaner, safer and more beautiful state” is so huge that, in another 30 years, Osun will no doubt be a reference point in infrastructure development to other states of the federation. Little

wonder the governor is one of the most outstanding and credible personalities the Nigerian nation has ever known. The interesting part of his initiatives and interventions is that they are practically free from political interference, unlike what obtains in some other states.

The baselessness of Forum of 2011/2012 Pensioners’ allegation could also be traced to the fact that Osun ranks next to Lagos in terms of payment of workers’ salary and pension allowances. For instance, how many people remember that, until the arrival of the second tranche of the Paris Club refund, Ayo Fayose could only manage to pay workers’ salary up until January 2017? As we speak, Ekiti State civil servants are being owed six months; primary school teachers, nine months; secondary school teachers, seven months; local government workers, seven months; and, pensioners, nine months. Yet, the governor continues to mortgage the state’s future on ‘ponmo’ cow hide) and okada (motorcycle) as if that’s one sure fiendish way of keeping an unsuspecting people perpetually under his feet.

In Benue State, two months’ salaries are used to pay for one month.

Impliedly, workers are paid half salaries across board in that state. Kwara, Kogi and Enugu States are not faring any better. As at May 2017,

Edo State government was sitting, comfortably, on arrears of pension ranging from 10 to 42 months owed its senior citizens. Not only that, state pensioners were also being owed“gratuities from 2012 till date and the local government pensioners from 2008 till date.” Coincidentally, the man who just left the state as governor was a veteran labour leader. So, when will Aregbesola’s traducers be sincere enough to admit that the salary challenge is national in outlook? On the other hand, isn’t it curious that a certain section of the fourth branch of government has turned itself into an “insidious political opposition ..., hiding under the plight of pensioners to make outrageous claims with a view to inciting the people against the government”?

From investigations, how much did Osun receive as second tranche of the refund? N6,314bn!

How much was spent on payment of parts of salary arrears, leave bonuses and pensions to civil servants and pensioners in the state, of course, including those in the local government service? N5,131bn! On the issue of severance package, did Aregbesola breach any law guiding the payment of such to public or political office holders in the state?

Not to my knowledge!

--Abiodun Komolafe, Ijebu-Jesa, Osun State.

that it is a sedentary lifestyle which increases the chances of anyone enjoying this ease of life in an austerity to come down with prostrate and respiratory issues.

Which is why many of them seek treatment abroad. Recently in the news, we heard that one of ours sacked as much as 20 or so aides.

What most of us deduced from that news item is that apart from having to wash himself, eating and talking, and perhaps taking care of the individuals in their other rooms, there would be no other physical exercise or activity domestic chores to which these big men carry out.

As part of our culture, children are accustomed to asking their father for gifts after they return from a journey. We know that our father President Buhari did not embark on a pleasure trip and we would be insensitive to be asking him to give us gifts. That he came back well should have been enough gift. But we do know that he was in a place where the medical facilities work, and where there is power 24/7. Which is why we are asking him to work on our power needs, so that we too can enjoy uninterrupted power at least in our lifetime. As part of the reasons most Nigerians travel abroad for treatment for undisclosed illnesses is the absence of power I believe. Power is everything and where there is no power there is no life.

The economy is power.

Health is power. Education is power. Industry is power.

Everything is power, and if we cannot get our fingers around this, we will all be running hither and thither to take care of these little ailments in the Western world which the Western world have conquered with a regular supply of power supply. For the most part of my life, I have never experienced power ever run uninterrupted for 24 hours except maybe when abroad. And here therefore, we rely on power generators as instruments of self-help and an as metaphors of comparative betterment.

But increasingly, the noise irritates and annoys, and worse of all is that we use diesel power generators to contribute our bit to hurting our environment.

Fed up, most Nigerians are subscribing to the noiseless MTN I-betterpass-my-neighbour solar power generators. Cashing in on our failures to make power available, the South Africans have roped us in – yes, you get the power 24/7 but it is at great cost to the subscriber. I believe the Nigerian government can add the provision of power to Nigerians in addition to its anti-corruption fight. It can do this by understudying what the South Africans are doing with those mini-power generating sets. The future is about the development of human potential and how it can harvest the elements for people development.

--Bob MajiriOghene Etemiku ANEEJ, Benin City

NORTHERN WOMEN AND THE NATION’S WORKFORCE

W

hen United Nations development experts advise countries like Saudi Arabia and suchlike nations to allow women into the workforce and business spaces so as to tap into their wealth-creation and poverty-reduction innate abilities, the doubting Thomases would always be left aghast as to how this can ever work out. In reality, it is not hard to see how this could work out if one just take an academic look around.

I have always enjoyed a meal of semovita with an okro-stew soup mixture at the Minna Central Market and only recently did it occur to me that that restaurant is a source of steady employment for up to a dozen, mainly married women, locals; most impressive is that that restaurant is run by a typical Northern women, heavy-set and in drab-coloured flowing hijab and all.

The stereotype about the “Northern” or “Hausa” woman as someone in drab, flowing hijab, abaya,

or chador (derisively called “parachute” or “bedsheet”) who has nine or 10 children and is expecting the 11th and who is in rivalry with three other women is widespread and taken as fact. Happily for me, even though my “customer” fits that stereotype, she is savvy enough to invest in the food business. She cooks well, she drives a Peugeot panel van, she is neat, her restaurant is clean, and above all I am pleased that her investment is benefitting scores of married women in dull, drab flowing hijabs with nine, 10, or 11 children who do all the co-ordinating chores for her. Over at the restaurant, these women still wonder why an “Ibo man” enjoys their cooking so much. But I am not Igbo. I am an Idoma man, though at the restaurant my nickname is “Nda, Sarkin Nupawa the Heavy Spender.” They like my appellation because it is good for business. We are all happy.

-- Sunday Adole Jonah Department of Physics, Federal University of Technology, Minna

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T H I S D AY SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 3, 2017

T H I S D AY SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 3, 2017

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THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER Ëž ÍąËœ Í°ÍŽÍŻÍľ Í°ÍŽÍŻÍľ

INTERNATIONAL

IDANT and Restructuring, Biafranisation, Boko Haramism in Nigeria

I

DANT is the acronym for International Day Against Nuclear Tests. The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) Resolution 64/35, initiated by Kazakhstan and unanimously adopted on December 2, 2009 at the 64th session of the UNGA, set aside every August 29 as International Day Against Nuclear Tests (IDANT). In the same vein, the UNGA also set aside September 26 of every year as the International Day for the Total Elimination of nuclear weapons.

Every August 29, the objective of the United Nations is to underscore the opposition of the international community to nuclear tests in the strong belief that nuclear wars would be prevented. By this, the message of August 29 is preventive: there should be no more nuclear tests hence, it is addressing the future. The message of every September 26 is that all existing testing plans should be stopped forthwith. In both cases, therefore, the message is that nuclearisation and tests should belong to the garbage of history.

Even though the issue of nuclear disarmament was first raised as far back as 1946 and has remained a major feature since 1975 at the level of the review of conferences of states, parties to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty, disarmament has remained a dream. It has not belonged to the dustbin of history. On the contrary, threats of a nuclear war, possibly replacing conventional wars, are the most critical challenge for the United Nations to address as at today.

In July 1969, Chief Simeon O. Adebo noted: ‘We live in troublous times. Look, where you will, there is hardly a spot where there is a stable peace. Where there is not actual fighting, there are grave tensions; where the tensions are not international, they are local.’ When this statement was made, Chief Adebo might have considered the civil war situation in Nigeria, the then ongoing Cold War between the West and the East, the crises and conflicts in many parts of Africa, but might have not envisaged the extent of deterioration of global insecurity as it is as at today.

Without any scintilla of doubt, the global community, in general, and Nigeria in particular are living under what we may call ‘more than grave tensions,’ as at today. Internationally, the United Nations’ prescription of use of peaceful means (negotiation, conciliation, reconciliation, adjudication, diplomacy, etc) to resolve disputes in interstate relations is increasingly being made nonsense of with threats of use of nuclear weapons. The many international conventions done to nip in the bud, threats to the maintenance of global peace and security are no longer a big deal.

For instance, the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organised Crime was done in 2000 with the objective of promoting cooperation, as well as preventing and combating transnationally organised crimes more effectively. As at today, the global community cannot be said to be succeeding with unending international terrorism, which constitutes a transnational crime per excellence. In fact, the extent of success of the 2000 ‘Protocol to Prevent, Suppress and Punish trafficking in Persons, Especially Women and Children,’ which was an additional Protocol to the UN Convention on Transnationally Organised Crimes is also doubtful.

The United Nations Convention Against Corruption was signed in 2003 with three main objectives in mind: ‘Prevent and combat corruption more efficiently and effectively; support international cooperation and technical assistance in the prevention of and fight affairs and public property.’ The war against corruption, again, is far from achieving its objectives globally. Corruption is institutionally chronic in Nigeria.

More important, and perhaps most disturbing, all efforts so far made on nuclear weapons non-proliferation since 1963 are also a failure considered stricto sensu. In 1963, when the Treaty on Nuclear Non-Proliferation was done, France and China refused to sign the Treaty but later accepted to sign it after both countries had perfected their nuclear tests. The best the international community could do is to play the politics of hide and seek without being able to seriously sanction any proliferating country.

In fact, according to the World Nuclear Association website, ‘Over 45 countries are actively considering embarking upon nuclear power programmes. These range from sophisticated economies to developing nations... Nuclear power is planned in over 20 countries, which do not currently have it and under some level of consideration in over 20 more (in a few, consideration is not necessarily at government level).’ Additionally, according to the UN website, as at today, ‘some 15,000 nuclear weapons remain. Countries possessing such weapons have well-funded, long-term plans to modernise their nuclear arsenals. More than half of the world’s population still lives in countries that either have such weapons or are members of

VIE INTERNATIONALE with

Bola A. Akinterinwa Telephone : 0807-688-2846

e-mail: bolyttag@yahoo.com

Buhari nuclear alliances.’ More important, the UN also has it that, ‘As of 2016, while there have been major reductions in deployed nuclear weapons since the height of the Cold war, not one nuclear warhead has been physically destroyed pursuant to a treaty – bilateral or multilateral – and no nuclear disarmament negotiations are underway...’ What is particularly noteworthy at this juncture is that there is no fundamental difference in the processes of nuclear energy making for war and for peaceful purposes. Besides, the existing nuclear powers do not want new countries to become nuclear powers and acquire a nuclear status. It is often argued that new members do not have the means and experience to manage its complexities. Consequently, membership of the nuclear club is generally not done by kind invitation but by reasons of force majeure and self-imposition.

In this regard, what meaning should we give to the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty (CTBT) which was opened for signature in 1996, but which has become more about politics than anything else? True enough, France and the United Kingdom were the first two countries to sign the CTBT in 1996 and to ratify it in 1998. France made it clear last week, on August 29, 2017 that ‘it was the first state to have decided to close and dismantle its facilities for the production of fissile material used in nuclear weapons..., the only nuclearweapon state to have dismantled its nuclear test site in a transparent manner..., the only state to have dismantled its ground-launched nuclear missiles..., (and) the only state to have voluntarily reduced the number of its nuclear-powered ballistic-missile submarines by a third,’ and also to have ‘reduced the number of nuclear weapons, missiles and aircraft in its airborne component by a third.

The United States Department of State has also said ‘since 1992, the United States has observed a unilateral moratorium on nuclear explosive testing. This moratorium is based on our national security assessment that the United States does not need to conduct nuclear explosive tests in order to ensure the safety, security and effectiveness of the nuclear forces we maintain to deter nuclear attacks on the United States, our allies and partners.’ From the foregoing, many lessons can be drawn for the situation of insecurity in Nigeria. First, there is conflict between the revelations

President Buhari, as number one citizen, must know his onions very well in this regard, because Kanu appears to want to engage in a catalytic provocation as a prelude to war engagement. Re-arresting him cannot but also renew hostility vis-a-vis the federal government, not necessarily because people would want to support him or the Biafran agenda, but because the environmental conditionings of national unity are currently favourable to disintegration.This is where the IDANT requires a special reection out of the box

of France and the United States and the UN objective of a nuclear-free world. Second, denuclearisation is a priori more about politics of self-survival. Countries unilaterally decide to engage in denuclearisation when it is convenient, especially when a level of security and self-reliance has been attained.

Explained differently, one truth about politics of disarmament is that when weapons are obsolete or have been overtaken by the development of new and more powerful ones, the powerful countries gladly come into the open to talk of destruction of weapons and disarmament. If we admit the UN report as noted above, that ‘deployed nuclear weapons since the height of the Cold war, not one nuclear warhead has been physically destroyed pursuant to a treaty, bilateral or multilateral, and no nuclear disarmament negotiations are underway’ why should anyone be carried away or deceived about the various pronouncements on the subject matter by world leaders? What purpose can setting aside an International Day for the total elimination of nuclear weapons have, when the intention to really do away with it is not sincere?

Asecond lesson is that, as a result of the insincerity that has come to characterise nuclear politics, the possibility of a new war in Nigeria can be taken advantage of for testing nuclear arms in the country.

Put differently, Nigeria may easily become a deadly battle ground of international nuclear politics in the light of the various threats to the country’s national unity. It should not be quickly forgotten that alliances can also change in the light of enlightened national interests.

For instance, in 1975, when Cuba launched a military intervention in support of the Movement for the Liberation of Angola (MPLA) against the United States-backed interventions by apartheid South Africa and Zaire in support of’ two right-wing liberation movements competing for power in the country, the National Liberation Front of Angola (FNLA) and the National Union for the Total Independence of Angola (UNITA), Nigeria did not initially support the MPLA. It was on the discovery of the fact that Apartheid South Africa was actively supporting Jonas Savimbi’s UNITAthat Nigeria applied her policy of ‘no compromise with Apartheid,’ and switched support in favour of the AntĂłnio Agostinho Neto-led MPLA. Thus, all the countries publicly appearing to be giving support to the PMB’s administration as at today may secretly change alliance and seek to undermine Nigeria in several ways in the foreseeable future. It is within this context that the three main obstacles militating against national unity in Nigeria should be discussed, understood and new lessons learnt.

ImpedimentstoNationalCohesioninNigeria Three major obstacles are currently militating against national cohesion in Nigeria: quest for restructuring, biafranisation, and boko haramism. Restructuring as an act does not constitute a problem but what is likely to be the end result of it is the source of fear, and therefore of the problem. Will restructuring precipitate dismemberment of the country? If not, will it truly be a good antidote to societal ills, especially in terms of good governance, a corruption-free society and nation-building?

The quest for restructuring is essentially about the lop-sidedness in the management of federalism in Nigeria. The federal government is believed to be too strong to the detriment of the constitutive states of Nigeria. In this regard, a redefinition of the allocation of powers is pleaded. Apart from this, the manifestations of unfairness and injustice are complained of. This point largely explains the rationale for Biafranisation.

Biafranisation is a struggle for self-determination, self-autonomy, and quest for national sovereignty. Unlike restructuring which can and may not engender national disintegration, biafranisation necessarily does. The agents of biafranisation (MASSOB, IPOB, etc cannot be rightly considered as terrorist organisations like Boko Haram. Boko Haram is terroristic in design and wants Nigeria restructured into an Islamic State. The proponents of an independent state of Biafra are acting within the context of entitlement to the claim of or right to self-determination. Thus, there is a serious political lull before President Buhari to address: he is obligated to defend Nigeria in his oath of office. Nigeria’s constitution also provides for respect for international law which also requires Nigeria to uphold the principle of self-determination.

Therefore, in addressing the three impediments, government has three options to consider: effective dialogue, use of force and referendum. At the level of dialogue, the choice of dialogue requires mutual consent at the level of government and the opposition.

However, a meaningful dialogue has been difficult to achieve, thus probably compelling government to consider, most unfortunately, the possibility of use of force, which is only hardening the position of the opposition to the extent that both government and opposition are now talking in belligerent terms.

For instance, as declared by Nnamdi Kanu, the Director of Radio Biafra and leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), on Sunday, August 27, 2017 in his address to the Boys Technical College on Faulks Road in Aba North Local Government Area of Abia State: ‘Aba is the spiritual capital of Biafra land... Tell Buhari that I am in Aba and any person who comes to arrest Nnamdi Kanu in Biafra land will die here. I’ll never go on exile, I assure you. Some people talk about restructuring; are we doing restructuring of Nigeria now?

Are we doing fiscal federalism? Are we doing devolution? What we want is Biafra.’ (See concluding part on www.thisdaylive.com)

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T H I S D AY, T H E S U N D AY N E W S PA P E R ˾ SEPTEMBER 3, 2017

BUSINESS

Editor Vincent Obia Email vincent.obia@thisdaylive.com (08054681757)

LAST WEEK WEEK

Gas Supply The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporationincreaseddailyaveragenatural gassupplytogaspowerplantsby123 per cent. NNPC’s Group General Manager,GroupPublicAffairsDivision,Ndu Ughamadu,statedthisinAbuja.Hesaid the increase amounted to 730 million standardcubicfeetperday(mmscf/d) inJune,asagainst327mmscf/dinthe corresponding period in 2016. The report also indicated that nationwide petroleumproductssupplycontinued to record remarkable stability.

Arik Air Ethiopian Airlines held talks with the Nigerianauthoritiesforapossibletakeover of the management of troubled ArikAir.TheAssetManagementCorporationofNigeriatookoverArikAirearly thisyearafteritdeclaredheavylosses.

EthiopianAirlines’headofinternational services, Esayas Woldemariam, was quoted as saying that the takeover negotiationsfollowedarequestbythe Nigerian aviation ministry. Ethiopian Airlines is reputed to be Africa’s most profitable carrier.

Nigerian Stock Exchange building, Lagos

Stock Market Loses N394 Billion in One Week Foreign investors slow down activities after profit-taking 48 equities depreciate, while 19 equities appreciate Kunle Aderinokun Activities on the trading floors of the Nigerian Stock Exchange dropped significantly within the last one week, plunging by N394 billion in market capitalisation and 1,141.84 last Thursday in NSE All Share Index (ASI) to N12.237 trillion and 35,504.62 respectively. This represented a decline of 3.12 per cent from the previous Friday’s position of N12.631 trillion and 36,646.46 respectively.

But when measured on a monthly basis, the market experienced aggregate decline of 3.31 per cent both in market capitalisation and ASI. According to the statistics from NSE, the market opened the month on Tuesday, August 1 with a market capitalisation of N12.656 trillion and ASI of 36,720.62, and closed with N12.237 trillion and 35,504.62 respectively on Friday, August 31. This represented a loss of N419 billion and 1,216 in market capitalisation and ASI respectively.

A capital market operator, who craved anonymity volunteered reasons why the market went down last week. According to the source, there was basically nothing exciting during the week that could have driven the market up as foreign investors slowed down their activities after profit-taking to lock in their gains.

The foregoing, the source added, was coupled with the fact that besides the rush to satisfy the needs for the Eid el Kabir festivity, local investors were offloading their shares for liquidity to fund tuition fees as schools would be resuming next week.

The market had after a week of trading into the month, recorded a

CAPITAL MARKET three-year high hitting the N13 trillion mark on renewed investor optimism.

Specifically, by the close of trading on Tuesday, August 8, the market hit a three-year high as market capitalisation stood at N13.1 trillion for the first time since October 2014, while ASI closed at 37,999.56.

This was after the gains recorded on July 17, when activities of the bulls, which resurged after a bout of losses, pushed the market capitalisation and ASI to close 2.47 per cent higher than the previous week.

However, during the last week that ended, which was only four days of trading due to the Friday and Monday public holidays declared by the Federal Government to commemorate the Eid -el- Kabir Sallah celebration, all other Indices finished lower with the exception of the NSE Insurance and NSE Oil/ Gas Indices that appreciated by 1.90 per cent and 0.29 per cent respectively while the NSE ASeM Index closed flat.

A total turnover of 998.973 million shares worth N11.455 billion in 13,626 deals were traded by investors on the floor of the Exchange in the week under review in contrast to a total of 1.538 billion shares valued at N24.218 billion that exchanged hands the previous week in 19,187 deals.

The Financial Services Industry (measured by volume) led the activity chart with 838.247 million shares valued at N5.134 billion traded in 7,884 deals; thus contributing 83.91 per cent and

44.82 per cent to the total equity turnover volume and value respectively.

The Consumer Goods Industry followed with 45.589 million shares worth N3.225 billion in 2,759 deals. The third place was occupied by Conglomerates Industry with a turnover of 35.563 million shares worth N60.673 million in 627 deals. Trading in the top three Equities namely – Custodian and Allied Plc, Sovereign Trust Insurance Plc and Fidelity Bank Plc. (measured by volume) accounted for 383.065 million shares worth N829.743 million in 650 deals, contributing 38.34 per cent and 7.24 per cent to the total equity turnover volume and value respectively.

In all 19 equities appreciated in price

When measured on a monthly basis, the market experienced aggregate decline of 3.31 per cent both in market capitalisation and ASI during the week, lower than 32 of the previous week. Forty-eight equities depreciated in price, higher than forty equities of the previous week, while 104 equities remained unchanged higher than 99 equities recorded in the preceding week.

Heading the top price gainers’ table was Cutix, which garnered 24.38 per cent gain (49 kobo) to close at N2.50 per share from N2.01 per share that it opened the trading. It was followed by Continental Reinsurance, which gained 13.95 per cent in price (18 kobo) to close

at N1.47. Other gainers were: Total Nigeria with 13.01 per cent (N28.20); Fidson Healthcare with 6.03 per cent (19 kobo); Custodian and Allied, 5.26 per cent (18 kobo); May & Baker Nigeria, 5.24 per cent (15kobo); PZ Cussons Nigeria, 5 per cent (N1.30); Newrest ASL Nigeria, 4.99 per cent (27kobo); Niemeth International, 4.82 per cent (4kobo) and Vitafoam Nigeria, 4.49 per cent (12 kobo).

On the other hand, leading the losers was 11 Plc with 14.25 per cent loss, having shed N27.44 to close at N165.11 from N192.55, which it opened the week.

First Aluminium trailed behind with 12.70 per cent, dropping 8 kobo from 63 kobo to 55kobo. Others are C & I Leasing, 9.91 per cent (11kobo); Julius Berger Nigeria, 9.72 per cent (N3.50); Morison Industries, 8.80 per cent (8 kobo); Guinness Nigeria, 7.36 per cent (6kobo); FCMB Group, 6.96 per cent (8 kobo); Linkage Assurance, 6.94 per cent(5kobo); United Bank for Africa, 6.19 per cent (60kobo); and Nigeria Breweries, 5.25 per cent (N9.97).

Similarly, traded during the week were a total of 86,063 units of Exchange Traded Products (ETPs) valued at N838,754.79 executed in 8 deals compared with a total of 390 units valued at N6,511.60 transacted last week in 5 deals.

In the same vein, a total of 12,244 units of Federal Government Bonds valued at N12.374 million were traded this week in 11 deals, compared with a total of 3,657 units valued at N2.866 million transacted last week in nine deals.

Solid Minerals To boost the capacity of artisanal and small-scaleminerstoparticipateinthe developmentofthesolidmineralssector,thefederalgovernmentlauncheda N5billionNigerianArtisanalandSmallScaleMinersFinancingSupportFundto grantloansatsingledigitinterestrates.

Under the terms of the memorandum ofunderstandingsignedonTuesdayin Abuja,thegovernmentwouldcontribute N2.5 billion of the fund, which would be matched by another N2.5 billion by the Bank of Industry.

Power Generation TheFederalExecutiveCouncilapproved a$5.792 billion contract for engineering works at the Hydro Electric Power Plant in Taraba State. The contract was awarded to a consortium of three Chinese companies — Messrs CGCC-SINOHYDRO-CGOCC.Minister ofPower,WorksandHousing,Mr.Babatunde Fashola, said the contract cost wasinclusiveoftaxes,environmentutilisation,theworkproper,aswellasproject land acquisition and compensation to about 100,000 people who would be resettled.Healsosaidtheconstruction would take approximately six years.

Salary Cut The Nigerian Medical Association in Kogi State on Thursday rejected the payment of 50 per cent salary to its members by the state government.

The state NMA chairman, Dr Godwin Tijani, who announced the rejection in a statement in Lokoja, expressed displeasureatthepaymentofhalfsalary tothedoctors.Inarelateddevelopment, NasarawaStateGovernmentonThursday said local government workers in thestatewouldreceivebetween60and 80percentoftheirAugustsalaries.The Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Mr Haruna Osegba, attributed the salary cut to a shortfall in the amount that accrued to the local government councils from the Federation Account.

Forex Market The Central Bank of Nigeria again intervened in the Inter-Bank Foreign Exchange Market to the tune of $250 million. Acting Director, Corporate Communications Department, CBN, Isaac Okorafor, said the apex bank also sold $100 million and uplifted theSmallandMediumEnterprisesand invisiblesegmentswith$85millionand $65million,respectively.Hereiterated that in a bid to improve liquidity and ameliorate challenges encountered by critical stakeholders at this time of the year.

T H I S D AY, T H E S U N D AY N E W S PA P E R ˾ SEPTEMBER 3, 2017

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BUSINESS/ENERGY

NNPC Tower, Abuja

For the Third Time in 2yrs, NNPC Rejigs Managerial Structure For the third time in two years, Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation switches around management staff in professed moves to enhance performance, but how significant are the changes? Chineme Okafor tries to find out

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ast week, the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation made fresh appointments and redeployments in the top executive cadre of its operational value chain. It marked the third of such changes in the last two years. A statement in Abuja by NNPC’s Group General Manager, Public Affairs, Mr. Ndu Ughamadu, quoted the corporation’s Group Managing Director, Dr. Maikanti Baru, as saying that the new appointments were meant to reposition the company for the next phase of its activities in the country’s oil and gas industry.

Details Details of the shakeup indicated that a former Group General Manager, National Petroleum Investment Management Services (NAPIMS), Mr. Dafe Sejebor, was replaced by Mr. Roland Ewubare, a former Managing Director of the Integrated Data Services Limited (IDSL).

Though no reasons were given for Sejebor’s removal from NAPIMS, the NNPC noted that the new redeployments, which affected 55 of its top management staff, would help fill the gaps created by the statutory retirements of some of its staff.

Under the new arrangement, Ewubare moved to NAPIMS, leaving Diepriye Tariah, a former GGM and Senior Technical Assistant to Baru, to take over from him at IDSL. Similarly, Malami Shehu, who was Executive Director, Operations, at the notoriously lossmaking Kaduna Refining and Petrochemical Company (KRPC), was appointed to head the Port Harcourt Refining Company (PHRC), which is reputed to be NNPC’s most profitable refinery. Adewale Ladenegan, a former Managing Director of the Warri Refining and Petrochemical Company (WRPC), was moved to KRPC as its Managing Director.

The statement said Muhammed Akah, who was Executive Director, Operations, at WRPC, was upgraded to succeed Ladenegan at the helm of WRPC. The retirement of Farouk Ahmed as Managing Director of the Nigerian Products Marketing Company, (NPMC), the NNPC noted, created room for Umar

Ajiya, a former GGM in charge of Corporate Planning and Strategy (CP&S), to be appointed head of NPMC, while Bala Wunti, a former General Manager, Downstream, in the office of the GMD, was appointed to take up the post of GGM, CP&S. Ahmed had before his redeployment to the NNPC superintended the Petroleum Products Pricing Regulatory Agency (PPPRA) as Executive Secretary.

Other changes in the new restructure included Usman Yusuf, who took over as GGM/STA to Baru; Adeyemi Adetunji, MD, NNPC Retail; and Dr. Bola Afolabi, who now functions as GGM in charge of Research and Development Division of the NNPC. Similarly appointed to new positions were Ahmadu Katagum, GGM (Shipping) in the Downstream Autonomous Business Unit (ABU) of NNPC, and Kallamu Abdullahi, GGM in charge of the Renewable Energy Division in the Downstream ABU. NNPC promoted Shaibu Musa to head the NNPC Medical Services Limited, while Ibrahim Birma was redeployed as the new GGM in charge of the corporation’s Audit Division, now renamed Governance, Risk and Compliance Division.

Previous Personnel Changes Following the federal government’s desire to reform the operations of the NNPC, the corporation had between 2015 and 2017 undertaken three personnel shakeups. It claims to be repositioning for improved service delivery.

Despite criticism of the corporation’s frequent personnel shakeups by experts, NNPC in March 2016 appointed high-profile personnel to man its seven newly created divisions and 20 subsidiaries.

At that time, the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Dr. Ibe Kachikwu, who was NNPC’s GMD, announced the government’s approval of the changes, saying it is meant to reposition the corporation.

Kachikwu said,“The president has approved the final phase of restructuring of the NNPC. Under that phase, we have five business-focused divisions – the upstream, which you used to call E&P (exploration and production); the downstream; the gas power marketing, which is a pull-out from the E&P; the

refineries group, which is basically for all the three refineries; and then, of course, the ventures for every other little company that is here and there, thrown all over the place that doesn’t seem to have a sense of direction.

“So, the ventures will act like the incubation centre where you nurture these companies through management, get them very efficient and then decide whether you want to spin them off to be on their own independently, or whether you want to throw them to the stock exchange.”

He further stated,“If you look at the companies that will come underneath these divisions, we have a total of 20 firms on the whole. We had about 15 before, so only about four or five are new introductions. These subsidiaries are already there, we only added a few.

Among those earlier divisions that I’ve given you, we also have finance and services, and that brings it to seven divisions. But five are business-focused, while the others provide services.”

Kachikwu justified the restructuring, saying,“Why are we doing this? It is because, quite frankly, the NNPC is very over-staffed. So, we have to create work in order to ensure that everybody who is in the system will be busy and earn money. And as we began to do that, we realised suddenly that we had adequate staff and we are not really as over-staffed as we thought initially. So, the principle of our restructuring, which was approved by the president, is that nobody losses their work.”

Months after Kachikwu made the restructuring and redeployments, Baru, who succeeded him also effected some shakeups precisely in November last year, and redeployed about 109 of NNPC’s staff to various positions in a decision he said was aimed at increasing productivity.

Possible Reasons Though the corporation stated in its statement that the new staff reshuffles was inspired by statutory retirements and need for replacements, it might have also considered the growing challenges it has to surmount to remain competitive in the global oil and gas business.

The corporation has been forced to find creative

solutions to its operational challenges, such as funding for joint venture operations with International Oil Companies (IOCs), among other conditional demands. This requires that it finds and equips itself with creatively productive workers – though industry experts who spoke to THISDAY on condition of anonymity found the corporation’s management recruitment process quite unconventional and often unproductive.

Notwithstanding, the corporation had in the last couple of months initiated and signed off some key agreements and projects, which ordinarily should keep it busy for a while, and which would require a creative manpower to sustain.

Among the new ventures the corporation got involved in were two different alternative financing agreements it signed with Chevron Nigeria Limited (CNL) and Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) for the development of the NNPC/CNL Joint Venture (JV) Sonam Project (Project Falcon) and NNPC/SPDC JV Project Santolina.

According to NNPC, both oil and gas projects would boost Nigeria’s reserves and production, as well generate incremental revenue worth $16 billion for the federal government.

Under the NNPC/CNL JV agreement, the corporation said the Sonam Project, which was hitherto financed through cash calls, would now get alternative funding for its development to yield an incremental proven and probable oil/liquids reserves of 211 million barrels, as well as proven and probable gas reserves of 1.9 trillion cubic feet in Oil Mining Licences (OMLs) 90 and 91.

The project, NNPC explained, would begin to yield results in the next three to six months and then move on to achieve an incremental peak production of about 39,000 barrels per day of liquids and 283 million standard cubic feet of gas per day (mmscf/d) over the life cycle of the asset.

During the signing of the agreement in London, Baru stated that the JV partners had already expended $1.5 billion, representing 97 per cent of the project completion costs. But he said the new agreement would cover the remaining $780 million to complete the project’s scope.

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T H I S D AY, T H E S U N D AY N E W S PA P E R ˾ SEPTEMBER 3, 2017

SUNDAY INTERVIEW HERBERT WIGWE

Wigwe

Wigwe: Banks Looking for More Ingenious Ways to Make Money Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Access Bank Plc, Mr. Herbert Wigwe, in this interview on ARISE TV, the sister broadcast station of THISDAY, spoke on a wide range of issues in the banking industry as well as the economy. Obinna Chima presents the excerpt:

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o what extent did the 9mobile loan contribute to your impairments?

We had to take a collective impairment as far as EMTS is concerned. This was because, obviously, given all the issues that were happening in the market, we had to basically downgrade the asset quality and what that meant was that there was an increased collective impairment. Now if you look at our exposure to Etisalat, the direct exposure may not appear to be that significant. But we do have exposures to other companies that do business with EMTS that are still going concerns with different level of securities and all of that. But on EMTS specifically, there was an increase in the collective impairment and we also

took additional impairments with respect to those other exposures. So, that is where we are on it. So, it led to an increase on impairment on a collective basis, between last quarter and this quarter, by 100 per cent.

So, how much exactly did you provide in terms of the Etisalat (9mobile) loan?

Let me put up it this way, on a straight Etisalat exposure which is about N11 billion, we took about 30 per cent. However, remember like I said, there are other interconnected exposures and the level of collective exposures on those ones was a bit less.

What is the current status with Etisalat loan

and what is the consortium of banks doing in terms of ensuring that they get new investors for the company and get the telco pay for its loan, especially its former shareholder, Etisalat of the United Arab Emirates?

First of all, what we have done was to prepare the company for sale and so we have a management team that is working on it. The second is that we have appointed sale-side advisers who are now taking bids from people who are interested and we have a live room for people to virtually start doing due diligence so that we can conclude the sale very quickly. With respect to their parents, I think as a starting point, nobody walks into a system and takes so much loans and wakes up to say “oh I have gone.” It doesn’t add

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SUNDAY INTERVIEW

As More Investors Bring Money Through I & E Window, Forex Rate Convergence’ll Happen Cont’d from Pg. 21 up. So, we still have recourse to them. That is the secondary level issue. But the most important thing is for us to sell the company and see how much we can get to defray our exposures.

While a lot of banks’ earnings, such as yours improved as a result of foreign currency trading income, there are still concerns about volatility in foreign currency trading and how it can affect your profit. What is your bank doing to safeguard such volatility?

We occupy a very prime position as far as trading in derivatives and all of that is concerned. We have made money from it in the past 15 years, year in, year out. You just need to understand how it works and you need to understand the risk management processes you need to put in place to make sure that you are protected. I think all of that trading is geared towards a couple of things. Firstly, it increases the level of deepening and liquidity in the market. In the past you didn’t have futures, but now you have futures.

We are trading forwards and forwards are necessary to support customers. So, it is not out of a bubble, it is out of customers’ demand and enhanced liquidity in the market. Now, there are different things you can do with your… You can either trade currencies, you can lend your dollars. Whichever one, it would throw out whatever returns, depending on how you choose to optimise your balance sheet. Having said that of course, when the market is less volatile, obviously what you tend to see is that there are fewer returns to be made from it. The risks are higher in a more volatile market, but again, remember that you have open position limits; you have dealers’ limit and all sorts of limits that were put in place to basically ensure that you remain within the limit of the risk appetite which you chose to play.

The managers of the economy are optimistic that the country would exit recession at the end of the year. But a lot of analysts are saying even if the economy does grow at the end of the year, it might be muted. To what extent will this impact on households and even businesses?

I think it is still a big issue. I think we really need to address the fundamentals of our economy. I think we need to pay a lot of attention to agric, we need to pay a lot of attention to SMEs and most importantly, we need to pay a lot of attention to the power sector which drives all of these things. Today, the critical engine for growth is between agric and largely oil prices. Now, we can achieve double-digit growth in Gross Domestic Product without any change in oil prices once we address power. So, I think exiting recession as quickly as we expected, for me is not eureka yet because you are still susceptible or vulnerable to too many influences. However, I guess, given the current emphasis of the government and the central bank on agric, if we pursue some of those action steps, what you are likely to see is that we would create a much more robust and resilient economy, even though it takes a bit more time.

But there are also concerns that there is still so much emphasis on primary commodities, shouldn’t there be emphasis on industrialisation?

I agree. But we have to start from somewhere.

So, let us start growing rice. There are milling plants that had been set up already, so at least it would be processed and then we would be more competitive and there would be no need to import rice. So, you have to start from somewhere. And I think it is all coming together. The central bank governor recently insisted that banks contribute to a new fund which is being set up for agro-related types of businesses. The whole idea is not just to support the primary end, but to support the entire value chain. That way, you have an integrated structure that would ensure that we have less of imported products. But the real point at the end of the day, irrespective of what you do, industrialisation requires steady power. So, we need to actually fix that problem. And if you ask me, we are probably having issues with it right now, but it just requires a little tweak and we would get it right.

That is because a lot of investments had been done and banks and entrepreneurs that had taken risk, ought not to suffer because the longer and protracted it is, the more painful it would be. And I think once government pays a bit more attention to that, we would solve that problem.

Your bank and other banks place so much emphasis on growing their retail base. But there seems to be a disconnect because a lot of your lending still goes to the high net worth and large corporates. With the new legislation on Movable Assets and Credit Registry, do we expect to see a shift in your lending pattern?

I think seismic is too strong a word to use. A couple

Wigwe

of steps have been taken that would ensure that you start to see those shifts. First of all, the Credit Registry Act and secondly the use of Bank Verification Numbers (BVN), which means that if somebody defaults on a loan, we can blacklist that person and he cannot have access to credit in the system. The fact that I can’t lend to somebody who had defaulted means that, that person has been excluded from borrowing in the system. Now, as banks are beginning to look for other ways to make money, look at even the EMTS exposure we are talking about, God knows

how many millions of Nigerians you would have lent to, for you to have that amount of bad loan. But it is not even going to happen! So, people are looking for more ingenious ways to make money and it is happening. There is increased agency banking. One thing I can tell you for sure is certain, the proportion of loans that is going to be lent to retails and SMEs is going to be a lot more in 2017, than it was in 2016.

And in 2018, it would be a lot more. If you take my bank for instance, our traditional arrangement was we were a wholesale bank, but we are now a large diversified bank and we have invested significantly this year as far as expanding our channels and retail network is concerned.

I think a couple of things would happen. You don’t just come out of a recession and nothing happens. You would see a spike in NPLs, particularly as loans mature. You know, some of those loans would just be maturing, so you would see a spike and it would get better.

So, what you are likely to see, depending on the risk management philosophy of the bank, you would see a spike between now and December 2018. But I think the banks are certainly in much better positions to handle it than they did during the last exercise that happened in 2007-2008

It was flat because you have to understand that when you have devaluation in the manner in which we saw, it does not matter how much you lend to retail, it is not going to be that significant. It was flat because we had to take some interesting steps to basically curtail growth because of the fluctuations which you saw in the foreign currency market. So there was significant play down in the foreign currency loans.

We had to work on it. So, as far as local currency is concerned, it was not that significant. But we had to bring down the foreign currency loans because we were concerned about how the macro would span out over a period of time. If companies had significant currency risk, it is a problem; if people were taking significant loans for trade, it is also a problem. If you like, as a country, our reserve management required that we start curtailing imported raw materials. So, as a deliberate risk management process, what we did was to bring down a lot of the foreign currency exposures. So, that was why you saw it taper down.

Why was your loan book flat for last year?

Financial inclusion in this country remains a major concern and banks keep talking about spreading their digital footprints. But what exactly is holding mobile banking back from being a major tool for financial inclusion?

It is happening in Nigeria. If I take my own customer base, in terms of those that use basically, mobile telephones, I have grown my customer base by more than four million customers that didn’t exist before. So, it is happening. Remember, Kenya and Nigeria are different economies. In Kenya, it was more telecoms-led. But Nigerian banks are far bigger in terms of size and the legislative issues are

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SUNDAY INTERVIEW Traditionally, We’re a Wholesale Bank, But Now a Large Diversified Bank Cont’d from Pg. 22 also slightly different. However, having said that, what you are beginning to see is increased partnerships between the banking industry and telecoms players to basically ensure that we reach out to the remote parts of the country. How do you think farmers are paid in the most remote parts of Kebbi or in Sokoto? It is through mobile banking. So, that is where it starts from. If you look at it, more people are coming into the virtual aspect of banking. So, financial inclusion is happening and again, I keep saying you would see a lot more happening in the second half of this year and next year.

That is because as you now have these customers, the customer engagement mechanism requires that they continue to operate their accounts and of course the process for you to uplift them from basic Know-Your-Customer (KYC) levels into proper bank accounts would happen.

Our industry is very dynamic and more sophisticated than most markets in the continent. Perhaps, the only exception may be South Africa. And when things like this happen, it happens like wild fire. So, I think we would see a big jump as far as the numbers are concerned.

Your bank has a very good relationship with Lagos state government and was involved in packaging the Lagos fourth mainland bridge which has been cancelled. What led to the cancellation and what is the next phase as regards that project?

I don’t think it has been cancelled. I think the governor of Lagos state basically decided to reprioritise, given the recession. It is certainly not cancelled.

I know it is still an anchor project as far as his administration is concerned.

He is probably revisiting the structures, engineering, in a bid to scale it down, given the resources available. Obviously, sometimes you make plans and you may need to revisit it so that you don’t have a problem. So, I think that was basically what happened and I am certain that he would continue executing it during his stewardship.

To what extent is Access Bank lending directly to farmers?

We are doing that increasingly. Not just farmers, we are looking at the entire value chain. We are looking at agrobusinesses. For example, Lake Rice, which is supposed to ensure that a significant proportion of rice in this country that is imported is significantly reduced, is something that we are supporting. It is a collaboration between Lagos and Kebbi. The rice is grown in Kebbi, and in Lagos, you have the larger market.

So, we are doing things and supporting firms that are involved in agriculture under the Anchor Borrowers’ Scheme.

We operate as an extremely responsible entity and sustainability is a critical part of our existence. And if we don’t start to think Nigeria, live Nigeria and eat Nigeria, we would have a problem. For us, the only way to do that is to live by example. So, we are investing more as far as agric is concerned. Also, more local banks are beginning to look at it and are taking it more seriously.

The CBN governor has taken some significant measures to stabilise the foreign exchange market since February. What more needs to be done to ensure that there is convergence between rate on the I & E window and the spot market rate?

In fairness, it is closing and it would close. You can see gradually that the gaps are closing. Look at the unofficial market that had such huge disparity before, what has happened? It’s like that market is almost wiped out because most of the people who had to go to that market now have access to the formal market. For SMEs, what the governor did was to establish a mechanism for them to come into the formal market and therefore, there is less pressure.

Wigwe

Now, as more investors get into the I & E window, as more investors see that the market is real, what you then start to see is the gap closing up. When you talk about stabilising the system, you also have to ask questions about the local industry and what you need to do to make them sustainable in the short-run. One of the things you see and why people are still able to access forex at a different rate is that, those are for priority sectors for manufactuing concerns. So, let us support those people who are producing locally, using local raw materials and get them more competitive. It is also expected that as more investors bring in money through the I &E window, that market would firm up and the convergence would happen.

What is your forecast for the sector in terms of non-performing loans?

I think a couple of things would happen. You don’t just come out of a recession and nothing happens. You would see a spike in NPLs, particularly as loans mature. You know, some of those loans would just be maturing, so you would see a spike and it would

get better. So, what you are likely to see, depending on the risk management philosophy of the bank, you would see a spike between now and December 2018.

But I think the banks are certainly in much better positions to handle it than they did during the last exercise that happened in 2007-2008. So, it would cut across sectors, but more in sectors where you have people who require imported raw materials to support production. But I think banks are going to look at other ingenious ways of making money and by lending a lot more in the retail space where you have a wider margin and in a much more structured and secured manner, pushing cards and their channels, so that they can find replacement income for all of these. So, I think 2017 would still remain a year of muted growth for banks. But the stronger banks would continue to do well because they (the strong banks) still have strong capital adequacy ratio and strong capital to support them. Overall, I think the industry would play out better.

there been provisions for those that acquired the power assets and cannot pay for them

You can’t tell the banks to provide for those loans right now. It is a very important issue and it is a national issue.

It is a national issue because it is critical for our economy. And the banks that were sufficiently patriotic to support investments in power, need to be given time to manage those exposures. Some of the problems that have come out of these exposures were actually not caused by the banks, but out of the fault in the implementation of the power policy. Now, having said that, there is also the issue of systemic importance, relevance and what you need to do about depositors’ funds.

But operators are partly to blame, especially the distribution companies because some generate income and they don’t service the loans. They don’t even pay for the power sold to them by the generation companies?

There seems to be some collective These are pricing issues. There is a silence in the industry about banks’ problem in that value chain and there exposure to the power sector. Have is also a problem with pricing of their

I think 2017 would still remain a year of muted growth for banks. But the stronger banks would continue to do well because they (the strong banks) still have strong capital adequacy ratio and strong capital to support them. Overall, I think the industry would play out better

product which everybody needs to look at. There is a problem of access to gas. So, several little things need to be resolved. But this is not the first time it is happening. Remember in the 80s, the government had to step in and that was how the creation of prudential guidelines came up. I think the government needs to revisit that whole sector in terms of the people who are exposed to that sector and create some form of reprieve for them to work it out and for things to go right.

That is because that sector is extremely important for the industrialisation of our country. But if you treat it otherwise, what you get is a collapse of that sector, which would be worse for all of us. So, I think it needs to be managed and I believe the government would do that.

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T H I S D AY, T H E S U N D AY N E W S PA P E R ˾ SEPTEMBER 3, 2017

BUSINESS/ECONOMY

Buhari in a meeting with key members of his economic team

Meeting with the Economic Team...

President Muhammadu Buhari recently met with his economic team following which he expressed satisfaction on the progress made in the economy. It is however imperative for government to make the people and businesses feel the impact of the improving economy, writes Kunle Aderinokun

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ince the advent of the current administration in May 2015, the economy has been navigating a stormy weather.

There had been accusations and counter-accusations of who was responsible for the state of the economy as it were. Specifically, the President Muhammadu Buhari-led administration had blamed the erstwhile administration of the former President Goodluck Jonathan of plundering the economy. In its usual manner, the previous government, which was in the opposition Peoples Democratic Party swiftly responded, negating every condemnation and insinuation of the government of the day. Tried as they could, the economic managers in this dispensation could not avoid the economy plunging into crisis since the fortunes of oil, the lifeline of the economy and literally its mainstay, were at their low ebb. So, for an economy that is subject to the dictates and vagaries of commodity prices, oil revenue dwindled and the economy was adversely affected. Things came to a head in the second quarter of 2016, when the economy slipped into a recession after two quarters of negative growth. Consequently, the economy has been under heavy criticism from both local and international analysts and observers, with diverse opinions and projections on the way out of the doldrums.

Notwithstanding the narratives, Buhari, who recently returned to the country after 103-day medical vacation, said he was pleased with the progress in the economy.

The president expressed his satisfaction when he met with the key managers of the economy,

namely the Minister of Finance, Mrs. Kemi Adeosun; Minister of Budget and National Planning, Senator Udoma Udo Udoma; and the Governor of Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mr. Godwin Emefiele, at the State House, Abuja.

The Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the President, Mr. Femi Adesina, who disclosed this in a statement, noted that the economic managers gave Buhari updates on the economy, implementation of the 2017 budget, preparation for 2018 budget, revenue strategies, combined cost reduction and debt management.

According to him, “For almost two hours, President Muhammadu Buhari Monday received briefing from the minister of budget and national planning, Senator Udoma Udo Udoma, the minister of finance, Mrs. Kemi Adeosun, and Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mr. Godwin Emefiele, after which a delighted President declared that he was pleased with the progress being made on different fronts,” the statement read.

“The ministers and CBN governor updated the president on the improving state of the economy, implementation of the 2017 budget, preparation for the 2018 budget, revenue strategies, combined cost reduction and debt management.

“Also discussed were monetary policy strategies and their economic impact, among others.

“President Buhari, while reminding the ministers and CBN governor that reviving the economy was one of the major planks on which the campaign of his party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), was based, expressed gladness that things were looking up after two years of yeoman’s job.”

The President advised the key government officials to “keep at it”, as the “main aim of

government was to bring succour to Nigerians across all walks of life”.

Before and when Buhari was away on medical leave, the government instituted some policies, which appear to be impacting on the economy.

Such policies include the Economic Recovery and Growth Plan, series of CBN’s interventions in the forex market, especially opening of the Investors and Exporters’ (I &E) window to banks, three executive orders on Ease of Doing Business and another executive order on Voluntary Asset and Income Declaration scheme (VAIDS).

Following this, the value of the naira has stabilised and the economy is gradually moving out of the negative territory of growth.

According to the National Bureau of Statistics, in the first quarter of this year, the economy contracted by 0.52 per cent, an improvement by 121 basis points over the -1.73 per cent negative growth in the preceding quarter. Similarly, the NBS in its latest inflation report revealed that the rate of inflation declined by 0.05 per cent in the month of July to 16.05 per cent, from 16.10 per cent in June.

The decline, which was the sixth consecutive decline since January 2017, was despite the food index, which soared to 20.28 per cent in July, the highest in eight years.

However, economic analysts and market watchers have reacted to Buhari’s position on the economy and expressed their views on the current state of things.

While most of the analysts are in consonant with the president on the economy, one described as unfortunate his comment considering the fact that the economy is in a painful situation with nothing much changed since it entered recession.

The majority, however, believed that, while the economy is inching forward, its impact is yet to be noticeable on the people and businesses.

President, Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Frank Jacobs, said he agreed with Buhari’s assessment of the economy“because the economy today is definitely better than what it was last year.”

According to him,“The quarter we are in now is better than the second quarter, it’s better than the first quarter, so there is an improvement. So his assessment is accurate.”

Jacobs, who acknowledged the 0.05 per cent drop in inflation in July, lamented that there was increase in inflation rate for food items.“So we cannot start jumping to access the economy on the basis of that average because food affects everybody because for inflation for food to increase, it’s not really good. That doesn’t take away the fact that the economy is progressing but we can’t say that we have fully recovered.”

On the way forward for the economy, the MAN president suggested that the federal government should fully implement its array of policies that it introduced recently.“Those policies should be implemented judiciously. The ERGP, ease of doing business policy, patronage of Nigerian products policy, executive orders recently signed into law by the then acting president, should be implemented judiciously, because that would help drive the economy to recovery and growth,”he pointed out.

Likewise, Executive Director, Corporate Finance, BGL Capital Ltd, Femi Ademola, noted that, “Literally speaking, it is apt for President Buhari to be pleased with the state of the economy considering where we are coming from.”

According to him, “The consistent decline in inflation for about 6 months now (although

25

T H I S D AY, T H E S U N D AY N E W S PA P E R ˾ SEPTEMBER 3, 2017

BUSINESS/ECONOMY Meeting with the Economic Team... significantly due to the base effect) is a sign of good turn for the economy. The stable exchange rate that we have been experiencing over the past months, arguably due to the improved oil production and the higher and stable oil price, is positive development. The slightly moderating yield on fixed income instruments and strong uptick in stock prices are all parts of the economic progress.

“All these developments are summed up in the economic contraction by only 0.52 per cent in the first quarter of 2017 compared to growths of -1.73 per cent and -2.54 per cent in the fourth and third quarters of 2016 which indicates that we might have reached an inflexion point and may even experience a positive growth in the second or third quarter of 2017.”

Ademola, however, added that, “It terms of expectations of the people and the targets set for the economy by the government itself, the state of the economy is not pleasing. Inflation is still high at 16.05 per cent and the exchange rate and the operating mechanism, although somewhat stable is not business friendly. Credit to the private sector is still very low (where it exists), productivity is below optimal and unemployment and poverty are still high.”

“Therefore while the President may term the current state of the economy as pleasing, it is still below expectation and more need to be done to meet expectations and targets,”he submitted.

For the Director, Union Capital Ltd, Egie Akpata, “I am yet to see an explicit statement from the President giving the economy a pass mark. What he did comment on was the direction the economy was going.”

Akpata pointed out:“ Most indicators and the outlook are better now than over 3 months ago when the President traveled on medical leave.

Considering that the economy has been in a recession for over a year, it is a positive sign that many key indicators like inflation and dollar liquidity have improved this year.”

However, the Chief Executive Officer, Global Analytics Consulting, Tope Fasua, who vehemently disagreed with Buhari on the state of the economy, said,“I believe it’s unfortunate for the president to give this economy a pass mark except that we are used to such faux pas from the government.”

“In the first place we entered a needless recession, which is painful and prolonged bordering on a depression. Not much has changed in the

Cont’d from Pg. 24

Buhari signing a document shortly after he returned from medical leave area of fiscal responsibility and we are basically digging a hole for the economy by tanking on debt - local and foreign. No affirmative action has been proclaimed over the 20 million little children, who walk all over the country, uneducated and disconnected from modernity.”

Fasua continued: “It’s impossible to teach an old horse new tricks but the president should

kindly save us from these agonies. Inflation at 16.05 per cent is still devastating on the economy and its people. The problem may be that within the circles of government things are effervescent for them. When everyone is smiling because they have managed to sort themselves out being closest to the releases of funds, then we can forgive the president for saying that he is pleased. But

when you look at this economy from an honest perspective and with a feeling heart, the picture is more than scary. We haven’t even started the journey yet, and the world is supersonic years ahead.”

As it stands, the challenge before government is to ensure the economy is lifted out of recession, achieve growth and stability to the benefit of all.

Aduku: There is Adequate Safety for Pension Contributions Naomi Aduku is head of Marketing and Business Development, AXA Mansard Pensions Limited.

Aduku, who joined the company in April 2015, holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from the Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. She has attended several training programmes in management, financial and credit analysis. In this interview with Olaseni Durojaiye, Aduku discusses the country’s pension industry and the imperatives of pension administration. Excerpts:

T

he typical attitude of young people to pension is that it is something older people worry about. What is your reaction to this?

It is best to start saving for retirement when one is young. With moderate contributions set aside monthly, one can save for retirement and avoid carrying a heavy financial burden in old age. Young people have an excellent opportunity to start building up their retirement fund from their youth rather than carry the burden in their old age.

To what extent have Nigerian professionals embraced the contributory pension system?

As a result of the statutory nature of the contributory pension scheme, compliance has generally been good among blue chip employers, where many professionals work. In addition to this, there is very good compliance by professional services firms across the country, and in the federal public service. Some states are also at different levels of implementation and have, therefore, embraced the scheme.

What is your advice to Nigerians who are sceptical about the security of the funds in their pension accounts and

those who doubt if they will be able to access the funds at the right time?

With regard to safety of pension contributions, there are numerous wellfunctioning safeguards and protections embedded in the enabling legislation, as well as regulations issued by the National Pension Commission to ensure the safety of pension contributions. For example, there is a clear separation of roles between pension fund administrators and pension fund custodians, which means custody of the funds is separate from management. Of note, since the inception of the contributory pension scheme over 12 years ago, there has been no single instance of fraud or inability to meet obligations to contributors.

Tell us about AXA Mansard Pensions Limited.

AXA Mansard Pensions Limited was incorporated in 2006 as Penman Pensions Limited. In the last quarter of 2014, AXA Mansard Insurance Plc. (formerly known as Mansard Insurance Plc),one of the leading Nigerian insurance companies, acquired a majority interest in Penman Pensions, thereby becoming the majority shareholder with a view to repositioning and transforming the company. Following the acquisition, the company was renamed AXA Mansard Pensions Limited. AXA Mansard Pensions

is licensed to operate as a Pension Fund Administrator to both private and public sector employees.

The National Pension Commission is set to open the RSA transfer window.

What would be the implication of this?

I believe both the pensions industry and customers will be better for it. Service will be taken to the next level with PFAs vying to ensure they retain their customers.

How would you assess your experience so far in the industry?

The fact is that this is a well thought out system that ensures that, by default, an employee is saving and planning for his/her retirement from day one. It’s a system that looks out for all workers to ensure a good life after having worked for so long.

What strategies would you advise young professionals to adopt to help them achieve a more prominent role in their organisations?

Remain focused and diligent. Have a passion for what you currently do. Put in the hours, and stay committed.

What is your business philosophy?

My personal philosophy is this: No

Aduku

excuses! You will always find a reason not to do something. Don’t find a reason, do it.

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T H I S D AY, T H E S U N D AY N E W S PA P E R ˾ SEPTEMBER 3, 2017

WOMEN IN MEDIA Okewale-Sonaiya: If I Had My Way, I Wouldn’t Have Gone to School Toun Okewale-Sonaiya is Chief Executive Officer of St. Ives Communications, owners of WFM 91.7, a gender-sensitive radio station dedicated to broadcasting programmes for women and the families. It is celebrated as the first female-oriented radio station in Sub-Saharan Africa. Okewale-Sonaiya began her journey into broadcast journalism in 1987 as a kid presenter with the Ogun State Broadcasting Corporation. She tells Raheem Akingbolu about her background and how her father, ace broadcaster Olawale Okewale of blessed memory, shaped her career and life, generally

T

‘No One Has Taken Advantage of Me’ Reports and allegations of gender-based harassment and exploitation are rampant nowadays in the various professions. But Okewale-Sonaiya says no one has ever taken advantage of her.

“Absolutely, nobody has ever taken advantage of me. I have heard some say I’m gullible, but they have never taken advantage of me. Over the years, I have had men nurture me, I have had men respect me, I have had men love me, I have had them inspire me and I have had them encourage me, but nobody has ever taken advantage of me,” she stated.

Okewale-Sonaiya is also never intimidated.

“I was raised in a family where one was independent,” she said. ”It was a family of four girls and a boy and everybody was treated equally. My father exposed all and gave us equal opportunity.

You had the floor when you have anything to say and nobody would bully you. As a broadcaster, my father knew the place of communication in children’s upbringing and he explored it to the fullest. We were trained in both formal and informal education. This was the background I took to the newsroom.”

oun Okewale-Sonaiya, the woman behind Nigeria’s first radio station for women and their families, is a delightful woman who has made enormous contribution to the Nigerian broadcast industry. Her late father, Olawale Okewale, was a popular broadcaster at the then Western Nigeria Television in Ibadan and the Nigerian Broadcasting Service, Ibadan.

Fatherly Induction The familiar faces at the late Okewale’s house in Ibadan during his active years were top broadcasters like Mrs. Anike Agbaje Williams, Toun Adeyemi, and Fabi Olanipekun. Others were Yomi Onabolu and Chief Adebayo Faleti, a renowned poet and dramatist, who recently passed on. These were the people the young Toun Okewale grew up to know with her late father. They influenced her early life, as she saw them as role models.

“I will say my foray into broadcasting was by design because my father was one,” OkewaleSonaiya said. “As a broadcaster with the then WNTV, my father’s voice was heard far and near in the then Western Region. That is why I can confidently say I was conceived and born into journalism. I grew up seeing top individuals in the broadcasting industry and I got familiar with them over time. They would correct both my tenses and pronunciations anytime they came around and little by little, I was being inducted into the noble profession.”

Okewale-Sonaiya’s opportunity to shine came shortly after the creation of states in 1976, when her father relocated to Abeokuta, the capital of his native Ogun State. The relocation provided the opportunity for his young daughter to have her first personal contact with broadcasting. She got involved in a children’s radio at the Ayetoro area of Abeokuta.

She said, “I started by being part of the programme.

Later, I became a co-presenter and at a time I was both the presenter and producer of the programme.

That is why till today, I will always refer to Ogun Radio as the station that discovered me. Without Ogun Radio, I will definitely not be where I am today. In fact, when I was in the university, I was working as a duty continuity announcer. I was shuttling between Ogun State University, where I studied English, and Ogun Radio, where I was understudying the likes of Femi Sowoolu, Sesan Ekisola, Peter Okodo, and Toba opaleye. Those were the bosses I had then. The other two people that gave me the necessary exposure then were Busayo Olaifa and Toyin Sogbesan.”

From Adire Trade to School Despite her early exposure to broadcasting, Okewale-Sonaiya said there was less incentive for her to proceed beyond secondary school.

“It would shock you to know that if I had my way while growing up, I would not go to school. Towards the tail end of my secondary school education, I was involved in Adire, our local fabric business. I would buy them in Abeokuta and send to my cousin in the United States and he would send me some money. With that, I was fulfilled and since I was making money, I didn’t see any reason why I should go to school. But my father, being what he was, said all his children must go to school and, therefore, insisted I went to school,” she said.

Humidity But Okewale-Sonaiya never allows her accomplishments to make her conceited. She is always minded to pause and look back at where she started.

“Iyalode Alaba Lawson once said anybody that forgets his or her source has lost it.” The WFM boss said. “Even before she said it, I knew where I was coming from; I was brought up by two wonderful disciplinarians – my father and mother.

They thought me to be humble and respect people.

They thought me to appreciate people and know the daughter of whom I am. Besides, I have a very good support system, my husband, children, siblings, my friends and colleagues. Without them I will not be where I am today. So why will I take them for granted or be arrogant.

“Above all, integrity matters. I value my heritage and I respect my father’s name. Why will I jeopardise my marriage? Why should I drag my family’s name in the mud? The moment I do what is contrary to our family ideals, I have disrespected the name and what my parents stood for.”

Okewale-Sonaiya Mainstream Journalism Okewale-Sonaiya’s journey into mainstream journalism started after her university education. She was posted to the Oyo State Ministry of Information for National Youth Service Corps, and was attached to the popular Alhaji Arulogun.

With Alhaji Arulogun, she was on the Spotlight and Insight beat. The programmes were being broadcasted on NTA Ibadan and BCOS. According to her, under Arulogun, who she described as a father figure and role model, she was prepared for the task ahead.

A year later, the national service ended and she returned to Abeokuta, where she officially joined Ogun Radio again. Her second coming coincided with the inauguration of OGBC 2. Perhaps, by providence, her voice was the first to go on air on OGBC 2, the FM arm of the radio station, when it was inaugurated. This was when she got her full employment as a staff of the broadcasting station.

She later moved to Daar Communications and became a presenter and producer on Ray Power. She was later moved to Africa Independent Television, the television arm of Daar Communications, where she headed the sales and marketing department.

At a time when many thought she had gotten to her final destination because of the fame the organisation gave her, Okewale-Sonaiya left DAAR Communications for the UK. There, she worked with Choice FM, now Capital Extra, before returning home.

I was making money, I didn’t see any reason why I should go to school. But my father, being what he was, said all his children must go to school and, therefore, insisted I went to school

Niche Okewale-Sonaiya, who disclosed how she met her husband in London during one of her holidays, said the man in her life bought into what she was doing from day one and has since, been supporting her.

“I met him as a broadcaster and he understands what it involves. He shares my dream and he supports me. He knew I had always wanted to have a radio station but no resources and so when the opportunity came, he didn’t only welcome it but also contributed in no small measure,” she stated. One year after, she talks about her experience in the operation of the first Nigerian radio station dedicated to women and children.

“Today, everything is about niche market, so ours is a station that takes care of everything you want in your family,” Okewale-Sonaiya stated.

“The experience has been wonderful. Within three months of our transmission, we got adverts and got sponsorship for our events, we were excited.

Ours is a radio station for women and children and our vision is to be the radio station that everybody can trust when it comes to information.”

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T H I S D AY, T H E S U N D AY N E W S PA P E R ˾ SEPTEMBER 3, 2017

TRAVEL

Edited by Demola Ojo Email demola.ojo@thisdaylive.com

Jollof War Continues at 13th Akwaaba, Calabar to Showcase Carnival Demola Ojo

O

n the African culinary scene, 2017 has been dominated by the Jollof rice war, as citizens of a few West African countries lay claim to the best Jollof rice recipe. With the jury still out, the war has found its way to West Africa’s leading travel expo, the Akwaaba Africa Travel Market.

As the highlight of Akwaaba’s maiden Chef Challenge and Food Fair, the Jollof War will host chefs from Ghana, Gambia and Nigeria.]

36 states in Nigeria compete for the best main meal and a group of Nigerian chefs compete for the best prepared rice in varieties. These activities were created purposely to bring out the best in West Africa in terms of rice production and promoting the outlook of culinary tourism and local delicacies to foreigners thereby promoting indigenous hospitality and style.

The Chef Challenge will be declared open by the DG of National Council of Arts and Culture, Otunba Segun Runsewe.

The Chef Challenge at Akwaaba follows hot on the heels of the Jollof rice challenge organized by the Ghanaian Tourism Authority (GTA) at Legon Botanical Garden.

The competition, which featured Ghana, Gambia, Nigeria and Senegal, formed part of the “See Ghana, Eat Ghana, Wear Ghana, and Feel Ghana” campaign being championed by the GTA. It also served as a selection process for the Ghana Chef Association to choose the five chefs coming to Lagos for Akwaaba.

Meanwhile, Cross River State has confirmed the participation of Carnival Calabar at Akwaaba. This is music to the ears of those who have only seen the Carnival revelers on TV. The Chairman

Carnival Calabar reveller

of the Carnival Commission, Mr. Gabe Onah, will be leading a high powered team from Calabar to Lagos.

Akwaaba is a marketing platform to reach more of Nigeria, West Africa, and Africa as it offers opportunities to meet

with airlines, hotels, restaurants, tour operators, travel agents, State tourism boards and representatives from national tourism boards.

Billed to hold from September 10-12 at Eko Hotel Lagos, it will feature a Youth in

Tourism Conference; an Africa Travel and Tourism Conference will address topics such as “One year of Accident free commercial aviation. What did Africa do right?” and a Women in Tourism Conference among other events.

Reduced Numbers for Lagos as Travel Ethiopian Bids for Arik, to Africa Shows Double-digit Growth Upgrades Sao Paulo Service An analysis of seat capacity for travel to the top ten international airports in Africa, produced by ForwardKeys, reveals that Lagos is seeing substantial declines in both domestic and international capacity, mainly because Arik Air is cutting 53% of its seats for the rest of 2017. During the coming five months, August – December 2017, there will be 16% fewer airline seats on domestic routes and 9% fewer and on international routes to and from Lagos.

Commenting on this data, Jon Howell, Managing Director of AviaDev, Africa’s leading airline route development conference, said: “One of the major reasons for falling arrivals by air to Nigeria, is the fact that many airlines could not repatriate funds after the currency crisis in 2016.

“As a result, Iberia and United Airlines have ceased operations to Nigeria, whilst Emirates and the other foreign carriers have scaled back services. The Nigerian airlines have suffered too and so this void has been filled by the ever-opportunistic Ethiopian Airlines, who began serving their fifth Nigerian destination, Kaduna on 1st August 2017 and are now the largest carrier in the Nigerian market.”

Africa’s leading airline, Ethiopian Airlines, has said that it has submitted a formal offer to take charge of Nigerian carrier Arik Air, which accounts for more than half of Nigeria’s air passenger traffic, according to CNN. “We have outlined our terms and conditions to the Nigerian government and we are waiting to see if they agree,”Esayas WoldeMariam, the airline’s managing director of international services, told CNN.“We are capable and desirous of handling the airline,” he stated.

WoldeMariam did not specify details of the offer, but added that he expected to face competition for Arik from international airlines.

Arik Air, Nigeria’s largest domestic and regional carrier, was taken over by the Asset Management Corporation (AMCON) last February, following the airline’s inability to repay a debt exceeding N350 billion to AMCON and other creditors.

Lekki-Ikoyi link bridge

Dubai AirportTrials Free Movie Streaming Dubai International has launched a new service allowing travellers to stream the latest films and TV shows to their devices while at the airport.

The initiative sees the Dubai hub partner with regional content provider ICFLIX, enabling passengers to stream “the latest Hollywood, Bollywood and Jazwood (Arabic)

content to their smartphones and laptops”using the airport’s free wifi.

Content is available in English, French and Arabic, and is being offered for free during an initial two-month trial period, following which “Dubai Airports and ICFLIX will assess customer feedback and options for future services”.

DXB recently announced plans to

launch biometric technology and automated border control gates at Terminal 3 departures, and earlier this year unveiled a new Sleep ‘n’ Fly lounge with 27 sleep pods.

The airport recorded its busiest ever July last month, with over eight million passengers travelling through the airport, an increase of 5.9 per cent on the previous year.

Ethiopian Airlines is Africa’s fastestgrowing and most profitable carrier. The airline reported a 10 per cent increase in revenue to $2.4 billion for 2015/16, with a 70 per cent rise in profits, while passenger numbers climbed 18 per cent to 7.6 million. The East African airline is pursuing an ambitious expansion programme in its home country, with the $345 million expansion of Addis Ababa’s Bole International Airport.

Abroad, the airline has acquired a 49 per cent stake in Malawian Airlines and 40 per cent of ASKY Airlines in Togo.

Announce to its valued customers that it has finalized preparations to start nonstop direct services to Sao Paulo, Brazil, currently operated via Lome, Togo, effective September 16.

Sao Paulo, the biggest city in the Brazil and in the southern hemisphere, is the economic and financial hub of the country hosting the headquarters of numerous major corporations.

Group CEO, Ethiopian Airlines, Mr. Tewolde GebreMariam, said; “We are delighted to offer our customers a faster and reliable connectivity between Africa, Middle East, Asia and Brazil with one of the shortest total travel time, operated with our state of the art fleet, Boeing 787.”

Ethiopian made its debut flight to Sao Paulo in 2013, coordinating its schedules with its partner airline in West Africa, ASKY, to give short, seamless and convenient connections to West Africa passengers travelling to and from Brazil.

T H I S D AY, T H E S U N D AY N E W S PA P E R ˾ SEPTEMBER 3, 2017

28

NIGERIA’S TOP 50 STOCKS BASED ON MARKET FUNDAMENTALS

NIGERIAN BREWERIES PLC: Remarkable earnings as operating business environment stabilises

N

igerian Breweries (NB) Plc, the largest brewing company in Nigeria by market capitalization and operational scale, is a renowned name in the consumer goods segment. The brewer has a robust brand portfolio which includes names such as: Maltina, Star Lager Beer, Gulder Lager Beer and Heineken Lager Beer. The company has eight operational breweries across Nigeria, and ultra-modern malting plants in Aba and Kaduna.

The company recently released its half-year result for the period ended, June 2017 showing a notable rise in performance as top-line and bottomline increases.

ECONOMIC STABILITY IN THE COUNTRY BOOST NB GROWTH POTENTIALS

The brewing company in its released unaudited half-year result for June 2017 showed a notable growth of 15.02% in revenue to N181.01 billion from N157.37 billion in June 2016, while net income grew by a remarkable figure of 24.57% to N23.75 billion from N19.07 billion in corresponding year of 2016.

The performance of the brewing company can be attributed to a better business environment than the parallel period of 2016 which witnessed a more difficult operating environment due to instability caused by the unstable foreign exchange terrain, increased unemployment and fuel scarcity which impacted purchasing power and businesses. Moreover, the importance of the Nigerian beer market cannot be overemphasised in the company’s operations, as sales in Nigeria continue to account for more than 97% of total revenue.

Furthermore ,the company’s cost of sales grew by 19.53% to N99.68 billion in June 2017 from N83.39 billion in June 2016 due to increase in cost of raw materials, especially sorghum which the company uses in the production of beer. Cost of sales moved upward to 55% from 51% as it consumes more than half of the company’s total revenue. The company’s gross profit increased by 9.94% to N81.33 billion from N73.98 billion year on year, while its gross profit margin decreased to 44.93% as at half-year 2017 from 47.01% as at half-year 2016.

SIGNIFICANT DECREASE IN FINANCIAL CHARGES STIMULATES GROWTH IN NET INCOME

Operationally, Nigerian Breweries

REPORTS SHOW THAT AFRICA, ESPECIALLY NIGERIA HAS THE FASTEST GROWING BEER MARKET FOR THE NEXT FIVE YEARS. NIGERIA BREWERIES IS BETTER POSITIONED TO BENEFIT FROM SUCH GROWTH AS IT CONTROLS THE LARGEST MARKET SHARE IN NIGERIA. THUS, THERE IS A POSITIVE OUTLOOK IN TOP-LINE AND BOTTOMLINE EARNING FOR THE CURRENT FINANCIAL YEAR

mainly by decreased interest expense on net pension liability despite the current challenging operating environment leading to consumer down-trading, rising inflation, increased cost of financing, higher foreign exchange cost and increasing input cost amongst other.

The company was able to grow its pre-tax earnings by a significant 33.31% to N34.06 billion from N25.55 billion during the period under review while its net income grew by 24.57% to N23.75 billion from N19.07 billion year-on-year.

Recommendation

HOLD

Target Price (N)

184.03

Current Price (N)

175.10

Market Cap (N'm)

1,506,529

Outstanding Shares (m) Rolling EPS

7,929 4.17

Rolling PE Ratio

43.15x

Forward EPS

4.03

Forward PE

44.69x Source: NSE Data 2017, BGL Research

ASSET QUALITY

The company’s key performance metrics remains strong as positive change was witnessed in profit margins as reported. Pre-tax profit margin grew to 18.82% from 16.23%.

Current ratio rose to 64.35% as at June 2017 from 51.69% as at December 2016. Return on average equity (ROAE) currently stands 13.81% and return on average asset at 6.28%. The company’s borrowings notably declined to N13.00 billion in June 2017 from N17.00 billion as at December 2016.

GEARED TO BENEFIT FROM INCREASED LOCAL CONTENT

Plc recorded a rise of 15.84% in operating profit to N39.32 billion June 2017 from N33.94 billion in June 2016. The company was able to grow its operating profit in spite of 9.92% rise in total expenses to N39.32 billion from N33.94 billion recorded in June 2016. The reason for the spike in total operating profit was due to enormous growth in other income which grew by 540.31% to N1.82 billion from N283m in the corresponding period of 2016.

Costs associated with distribution and marketing expenses rose by 13.31% to N33.40 billion from N29.48 billion in June 2016. Administrative expenses on the other hand grew by 3.81% in half-year 2017 to N10.44 billion from N10.85 billion year on year.

The company recorded a significant drop of 65.54% in finance income to N87m in June 2017 from N252m reported in June 2016. It can be assumed as a result of reduction due to fall in price of or no sale of obsolete assets, which may generate income; and an unfavourable movement in foreign exchange rate.

Furthermore, the company incurred financial charges to N5.35 billion from N8.64 billion year on year, reflecting a negative change of 38.16% driven

Valuation Metrics 31-Aug-17

With more raw materials sourced locally by the brewery giant to 99 percent of packaging materials, 100 percent of sorghum and 60 percent cassava starch, the Company has achieved 57% local content therefore positioned to enjoy reduced cost of production.

The Nigerian brewing space is controlled by two major players accounting for about 90% of the total market value, while other fringe players control the remaining share. Nigerian Breweries is the biggest player in the sector with a total installed capacity of 15.4mhl.

Guinness Nigeria Plc is the second biggest player with 5.5mhl installed brewing capacity. Other players are International Breweries Plc, Champion Breweries Plc and Jos Breweries Plc which among themselves control a limited of market share.

WE PLACE A HOLD RECOMMENDATION IN VIEW OF MARKET SHARE CAPACITY OF NB PLC

The performance of Nigeria Breweries Plc in the first half-year 2017 was better compared to the corresponding period of 2016 as economy stabilizes. Reports show that Africa, especially Nigeria has the fastest growing beer market for the next five years. Nigeria Breweries is

Half-year 2017 Unaudited Results Turnover (N'm)

181,010

Profit Before Tax (N'm)

34,059

Profit After Tax (N'm)

123,751

Pre-tax Margin (%)

8.82% Source: Company Data 2017, BGL Research

Audited Full Year 2016 Results Turnover (N'm)

313,743

Profit Before Tax (N'm) Profit After Tax (N'm) Pre-tax Margin (%)

39622 328,397 12.63%

Source: Company Data 2016, BGL Research

Shareholding Information Shareholders

% Holding

Heineken Brouwerijen B.V.

37.07%

Distilled Trading Intl B.V.

15.61%

Stanbic Nominees Nig. Ltd

12.94%

Public Float

34.38% Source: Company Report 2017, BGL Research

better positioned to benefit from such growth as it controls the largest market share in Nigeria. Thus, there is a positive outlook in top-line and bottom-line earning for the current financial year.

Based on historical year-ended financial performance and in conjunction with the findings of our analysis of the current operating landscape, we achieve a forward earning per share of N45.54 . Using the PE (Price to Earnings) method of valuation, we arrived at an average 6-month target price of N175.10.

Since the target price represents an downside potential of 2.74% on the current stock price of N180.03, we maintain our HOLD recommendation on Nigerian Breweries Plc.

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T H I S D AY, T H E S U N D AY N E W S PA P E R ˾ SEPTEMBER 3, 2017

NIGERIA’S TOP 50 STOCKS BASED ON MARKET FUNDAMENTALS

Fidson Healthcare Plc: Huge profitability growth to boost shareholders confidence

F

idson Healthcare Plc is a leading pharmaceutical manufacturing company in Nigeria founded in 1995.

Fidson have relentlessly pursued the goal of becoming a leading player in the pharmaceutical landscape in Nigeria. It has crafted the pharmaceutical architecture of the industry over the years of our existence, playing very defining roles in the emergence of the new generation of industry players.

Fidson’s long standing certification as an NIS:ISO 9001:2008 is a good evidence of its high standards of processing and operations. The completion of a brand new WHO compliant ultra-modern manufacturing plant, which is arguably the largest pharmaceutical manufacturing facility in Africa will enhance production of Fidson Healthcare Plc 6 distinct product lines (intravenous infusions and other sterile preparations, tablets, capsules, oral liquids, creams & ointments and dry powder).

INCREASE IN REVENUE AS HOUSEHOLD CONSUMPTION CLIMBS Fidson has constantly faced stiff competition from cheap imported healthcare and consumer goods from China and India besides local competition. This is in addition to reduction in sales witnessed in the North Eastern part of the country earlier in the year. However, half year 2017 financial results of Fidson Healthcare Plc which was recently released shows an outstanding 155.34% improvement in revenue to N6.67 billion from N2.61 billion in June 2016. The increase in top-line earnings was triggered by the increased spending by households as the domestic economy stabilises.

The Central Bank of Nigeria policy towards efficient foreign exchange management is yielding result which has increased investors’ and consumers’ confidence. Also, the Fidson Healthcare Plc will continue to experience notable growth in revenue as it strengthens the manufacturing of its six distinct pharmaceutical products - intravenous infusions and other sterile preparations, tablets, capsules, oral liquids, creams & ointments and dry powder – with the introduction a brand new WHO compliant ultra-modern manufacturing plant in June 2016, arguably the largest in Africa. This we believe will immensely contribute to the nation’s medicine needs and extend opportunities for exportation.

Cost of sales in June 2017 also followed suit with a massive 158.60% to N3.25 billion from N1.26 billion year on year.

Hence, an extraordinary 152.32% was recorded in gross profit to N3.42 billion

WITH THE INTRODUCTION OF ULTRA-MODERN MANUFACTURING PLANT, WE HOLD STRONG OPINION THAT FIDSON HEALTHCARE PLC HAS AN OPPORTUNITY TO DELIVER HIGH LEVEL OF PRODUCT INNOVATIONS, OPERATIONAL EXCELLENCE AND CREATE AN OPPORTUNITY TO DEEPEN ITS MARKET WHICH WOULD SIGNIFICANTLY BOOST PERFORMANCE BEYOND CURRENT RESULTS. HOWEVER, THE COMPANY’S MANAGEMENT MUST REVIEW AND ACTION SOUND STRATEGIC PLAN TOWARDS IMPROVING REVENUE AND EFFECTIVELY MANAGE ITS EXPENSES TO POSITIVELY IMPACT FURTHER EARNINGS AND SHAREHOLDERS RETURN

from N1.36 billion which was recorded in the same period of 2016.

PROFITABILITY NOT MARRED BY INCREASED EXPENSES Other operating income declined to N7.38m in June 2017, indicating a decrease of 12.42% when compared with June 2016 figure of N8.43m.

Another huge part of operating income is the drop of 69.98% in other operating expense to N8.45m billion from N28.13m over the period under review. Hence, Fidson’s profitability is enhanced by effective management and therefore absorbs administrative expenses and distribution expenses which grew by 60.30% to N1.13 billion from N704m in June 2016 and by 337.07% to N1.20 billion from N274m in June 2016 respectively. Consequently, operating profit for the half-year ended 2017 reported a massive rise of 205.54% from N1.09 billion from N358m year on year.

MASSIVE GROWTH IN PROFITABILTY Pre-tax profit stood at N685.39m indicating an enormous growth of 1077.47% from N58.21m in the corresponding period 2016. The Company’s finance income and cost grew by 42.16% and 100% to N425m and 18m for the half year ended, June 2017 respectively.

Expectedly, net income grew to tenfold its June 2016 figure to N466m from N39.6m in the preceding corresponding period, indicating a growth of 1077.47%. Income tax expense also grew massively by 1077.46% to N219m for the half-year ended, June 2017 from N18m recorded in June 2016.

KEY FINANCIAL METRICS REFLECTS PERFORMANCE FIGURES Total assets rose by 1.82% to N16.97 billion as at half-year ended, 30th June 2017 from N16.67 billion as at December 2016. The growth was driven by substantial increase in inventories and trade receivables which grew by 49.82% to N1.63 billion and 4.53% to N2.53 billion respectively.

Total liabilities decreased marginally by 0.87% to N9.99 billion from N10.07 billion as at 30th December 2016.

Shareholders’ equity increased on the back of retained earnings by a modest figure of 5.93% in the period under review to N6.98 billion from N6.59 billion recorded in December 2016.

Profitability ratio strengthens significantly. Return on asset (ROA) and return on equity (ROE) reflects bottom-line earnings as each grew to 2.75% from 1.90% and 6.67% from 4.80% respectively as at half year ended, 30th June 2016. Fidson’s quick ratio currently stands at 0.66 compared to 0.60 as at December 2016. Furthermore, price to sales (P/S) positions at 0.68 while price book value (P/BV) at 0.64.

WE PLACE A BUY RECOMMENDATION The performance of Fidson for half year 2017 has been impressive due to increased consumption spending and foreign exchange gains which reflected in both Company’s revenue and profitability. Fidson still enjoys significant patronage across its product brands and Nigerian economy is an attractive market for consumable goods, largely supported by the growing population size of over 180.1 million people.

With the introduction of ultra-modern manufacturing plant, we hold strong opinion that Fidson Healthcare Plc has an opportunity to deliver high level of product innovations, operational

Valuation Metrics 31-Aug-17 Recommendation

BUY

Target Price

4.00

Current Price (N)

3.60

Outstanding Shares (m)

4,725

Market Cap (N'm)

1,500

Rolling EPS (N)

0.50

Rolling PE Ratio

7.27x

Forward EPS

0.55

Forward PE Ratio

6.53x Source: BGL Research, NSE Data

Half-Year June 2017 Unaudited Results Turnover (N'm)

6,666

Profit Before Tax (N'm)

685

Profit After Tax (N'm)

466

Pre-tax Margin (%)

10.28% Source: BGL Research

FYE December 2016 Audited Results Turnover (N'm)

7,655

Profit Before Tax (N'm)

444

Profit After Tax (N'm)

317

Pre-tax Margin (%)

5.80% Source: BGL Research

Shareholding Information Shareholders

% Holding

Dr Fidelis Ayebae

29.77%

Glorious Haven Ltd (for Dr F. A.)

5.74%

Stanbic Nominees Ltd

5.67%

CSP Nominee

12.91%

Free Float

45.91% Source: Company Report 2017, BGL Research

excellence and create an opportunity to deepen its market which would significantly boost performance beyond current results. However, the Company’s management must review and action sound strategic plan towards improving revenue and effectively manage its expenses to positively impact further earnings and shareholders return.

Considering the foregoing with respect to intense of and other macroeconomic factors, we have valued the Fidson’s share using a combined valuation methods of book value, and adjusted price to sales (P/S) which resulted in a 6-month target price of N4.00 per share. Since this represents an upside potential of 11.24% on the current stock price, we place BUY recommendation on the Company’s shares.

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T H I S D AY, T H E S U N D AY N E W S PA P E R ˾ SEPTEMBER 3, 2017

ON MARRIAGE TR

UT H

& RE A SO

N

LIFE LESSONS WITH AYO AROWOLO

ayo.arowolo@thisdaylive.com

09067059433 (SMS only)

YOUR BODY IS YOUR BEST PHYSICIAN

–Susan Oyemade Mrs. Susan Oyemade is one individual who has demonstrated that sometimes most challenges in life have hidden in them goldmine of equivalent opportunities. At a point in her career, Mrs. Oyemade, a trained teacher, encountered a health challenge that forced her to travel abroad for interventions. In the process she came across a solution that not only permanently resolved her health concerns but also became the bedrock of a wellness business in Nigeria that has brought her fame and wealth. She introduced Forever Living Business to the country. Hardly looking her age (she is 73); Mrs. Oyemade says “it is possible to turn back your age and die old in a young body”.

You will certainly enjoy her notes on healthy living-and other life lessons.

ON HEALTH Your body is your best physician I did not get to know that until I ran into a very serious health crisis. It was in the process of finding a solution to that crisis that I stumbled on this lesson I am sharing. I have since discovered that when it comes to health, the God has created us with everything in us. Given half a chance, the body will heal itself. But a lot of people are ignorant about this fact.

We know about everything, our computer, our phone, our television, but this body, that we need to continue to exist on earth, we don’t know anything about it. Ignorance and disobedience are the major problems we have with our health, most of the times.

The body talks, if you listen to your body, your body will tell you what it needs and what it doesn’t need. If I put sugar in my mouth within few hours, my mouth will be bleeding, my gum will be paining me and I will be feeling terrible in my mouth. So what is my body telling me? Sugar is not good for me. If you listen carefully, your body would tell you what is not good for it and what you should put in it.

If we know about our body, we won’t treat it anyhow. Whatever you don’t know, you misuse. If you can just look at the car we drive, you can see that the car is patterned after the body. I always tell people that when you put adulterated oil in your car, what happens? You knock the engine. So the food that your body is not supposed to eat, if you put it there, your body will be breaking down. Look at the radiator, if you don’t put water into it, what happens? The car begins to overheat and the car will spoil. If you don’t drink enough water, the same thing will happen to your body. The car cannot move without petrol, the same thing if your body

is deficient in nutrient, it will become weak.

If the oil pump in the car is blocked, the car will not start and the same thing if the arteries in your body are blocked, the blood in your body will not flow and you are dead. Our blood carries oxygen and nutrients to all our vital organs and if this is not happening, the organs will die and we die too.

So the first thing we need to know as individuals is to know the body, to know the systems in the body. We need to know about the body, know that the body needs proper nutrition.

If our body is deficient in nutrients we are going to have health problems. It is like planting on a soil that is not good, what happens to the plant? So if you look at that, if your body is not having all the nutrients it is supposed to have, the body will not function properly. The human body is chemical composition of 16 principal elements, oxygen, carbon, hydrogen, nitrogen, calcium, phosphorus, potassium, sulfur, sodium, chlorine, magnesium, iodine, iron, fluorine, manganese, and silicon. It is replenishing these elements in sufficient quantity in the body through live foods that will keep the body functioning properly, maintain the body, and rejuvenate the body. if these are not there in sufficient quantity, what happens? You are aging and you will have a lot of health problems. Proper elimination of wastes from the body also is very important for good health. Healthy digestive system is crucial as it is well known that ‘Death begins in the Colon’.

Here is my point: your good health is in your hands. Don’t give authority to anybody to control your health. Doctors are knowledgeable, wonderful, and they are very essential, but they didn’t learn nutrition in medical schools, they learnt what is wrong with you and then this is the prescription. All

over the world, people are running away from medication because of the side effect of drugs.

So Integrative Nutrition Health Coaches are now helping people to make good food choices, modify their diet, and live a healthy lifestyle. A lot of people eat junk foods, drink a lot of alcohol, coffee, and soft drinks. These are damaging to our health at the end of the day. A lot of people, old and young feed on sugar; sugar is the food for cancer cells and is the reason for the increase in the cases of obesity, diabetes and hypertension. According the title of Don Colbert, MD, book, “Let Food Be Your Medicine”.

Then, you need to sleep adequately for your body to be charged. We must be sleeping by 10pm till 4am. The body is charged between 10pm and 2am, it has been proved.

ON CAREER Always go for what you are passionate about I knew what I wanted, I knew who I wanted to be and I know the career I wanted to follow. At an early age, I wanted to be a teacher and everybody was mocking me, but I didn’t listen. When I should have gone to do law or whatever, I went to a teacher training college. I started teaching in 1963 then I went to England in 1964. I wanted to continue teaching but for one reason or the other, my brother said I should do a Secretarial Course which I went to do after which I started working as a Secretary, but because I love teaching, I went back to college to do a Teacher’s Diploma Course in Business Education after which I started teaching Typewriting, Shorthand, Secretarial Duties and Office Management.

That brought me back to teaching. You focus on what will make you happy, I do not want to do anything for money sake, I want to do what will make me happy and fulfilled, so that it is not because of money.

A lot of people are in careers they don’t like and they are not happy and they will never be fulfilled.

You need to go for the man that fits your purpose A lot of women are living miserable life because they marry the wrong men and they are also dependent on their husbands financially. That won’t give you fulfillment and satisfaction. You need to do something with the talents and gifts God has endowed you with. What you don’t want, don’t take it because it will prevent you from getting what you want. Getting married is not a joke, know who you are, know the type of person you want from day one. Nowadays everybody is talking about money. You can also make money yourself. I don’t live on other people’s shadow. I want to be myself, I want to have financial freedom. But for our most women, it is also about upbringing, and cultural beliefs that a girl child’s purpose in life is husband, but the purpose for women is not husband.

As a woman, God created you for a unique primary assignment on earth which will also be a blessing to your marriage. I knew the type of man I wanted and I went for him. So my husband sees me as a pride to him, he let me blossom, he let me spread my wings and fly. Again, if a man is adequate, why should he feel threatened by the success of his wife?

ON WEALTH Don’t be attached to possessions.

I have learnt a very big lesson that has revolutionised my view about wealth and possessions. We actually do not lack anything.

Everything you need to achieve your purpose is available and there is no scarcity in the Source from where that wealth comes from.

So when you see an individual attaching himself or herself permanently to what God has created through him or her, that person lacks understanding. We do not own anything. As the money comes to me I look for channels for distributing the wealth and the interesting thing I have discovered is that the more I give, the more I receive. Even though my husband and I helped to establish Forever Living Business in Nigeria, we did not hold on to it; we have moved on. The wealth inside us is enormous. I often say that if they put me in the desert I will thrive there.

ON SPIRITUAL We are spiritual being in a material world.

I give glory to the Almighty Father because I will say the foundation of everything I become or have is knowing God at an early age.

My parents were very good Christians and we were brought up strictly in a very good Christian way. What really guided me in life is the 10 Commandments. Very interesting, I actually felt as if God was watching me all the time so, I would not like to do or say anything that will offend Him.

BEST ADVICE The first is from my mother, she taught me to always put God first in whatever I do and second, to ensure at all times, that only positive things. come out from my mouth and that I should hold positive thoughts in my mind always

ON FAILURE I don’t hold on to failure, what I am looking at is how can I move past the level of failure and then transform further.

Failure and disappointment serve as a propeller for me.

BOOKS I read ferociously with understanding and apply the good lessons I learn learned from the books I read in my daily living and also share the good lessons with others.

GREAT HABIT Silence. There is power in silence. To make good decisions, to be creative, and to be the best in what you do, you need quiet time daily. For some people, it is meditation and for some, it is communication with their Creator.

A

WEEKLY PULL-OUT

03.09.2017

SARO TAKES A GLITTERING WALK TO LONDON

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L-R: Mrs. Bolanle Austen-Peters, Mrs. Bola Adesola and Mrs. Oluwafolakemi Abdulrasaq

SARO TAKES A GLITTERING WALK TO LONDON From the fitting sessions and rehearsals, the road to the glittering success of the London premiere of ‘Saro The Musical’ was paved with stellar talent and sheer hard work from both the organizers, cast and crew.

Funke Olaode reports Fela’s Musical Scene

R

egarding her latest venture, the London premiere of ‘Saro the Musical’, you could safely conclude that all the lines dropped in pleasant places for Bolanle Austen-Peters, culture entrepreneur and owner of the famed Lagos culture hub, Terra Kulture. For one, she was returning to a city she had conquered last year with another production, Wakaa! It was the first Nigerian musical to grace a major theatre district in London. This time, she collaborated with MTN Foundation to showcase ‘Saro the Musical’ in London.

Wakaa! was able to break new grounds and transcend the demographic barriers of London theatrical landscape, showing that there is high demand for productions of African and indeed, Nigerian origin.

Number Two, she tied it neatly into the season largely linked to African-themed fiesta like the Notting Hill Carnival in London. Number Three, the producers of the award-winning Nigerian musical, ‘Saro’ capitalized on the teeming number of holidaying Nigerians and other Africans in the Diaspora to premiere the play to an enthralled audience.

The opening night on last Thursday, August 24 presented all the trappings of a fantastic production. Expectedly, the applause was loud coming from an appreciative audience who were very well entertained by a captivating, electrifying and superlative performance. The crowd was described by many as one of the largest at the theatre in recent times. You could place a safe bet on the Nigerians among them from the tone of their various traditional attire which they donned to support one of their own.

As early as 5 pm, the atmosphere at The Shaw Theatre in West London was charged with many Nigerians and Britons who trooped out to catch a glimpse of the stage

play from the stable of Nigerian culture promoter, Bolanle Austen-Peters.

By any standard, a 70-man cast and crew is prodigious; and it is normal with a musical. The production which ran for six days was a master showpiece in dance and music. Led by three Nigerian culture personalities; the revered movie veteran, Bimbo Manuel, director and producer, Kunle Afolayan and prolific actor, Gideon Okeke, Saro is a celebration of Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage and history. It also highlights the unrelenting spirit of the Nigerian youth that has been the hallmark of the Nigerian creative industry despite a myriad of challenges and obstacles.

The period before the play began was equally important for the networking opportunities. The reception outside the magnificent Shaw Theatre became a friendship platform to mingle freely. At 7pm on-the-nose, silence enveloped the theatre which was filled to capacity as audience held their breath in anticipation of the opening of the well-publicized stage dance.

Performed on a one-of-its-kind custom-built stage, Saro traces and pays homage to Nigeria’s rich musical history by beautifully rendering some of the country’s greatest hits over the years, while also delivering its own ingeniously composed original music.

Dressed in lovely, colourful costumes that showcased the best of Nigerian fashion, the cast and crew provided a thrilling spectacle, giving life to the musical dance steps and songs which incorporated a mesmerizing fusion of African and Western sounds such as Afrobeat, Highlife, Juju, Apala, hip-hop and jazz.

Taking the audience through an unforgettable night, the cast and crew masterfully combined their impeccably choreographed dance routines and charged performances delivered by a talented and attractive cast. The play is a theatrical joy

that gallops swiftly through its nine acts to tell the story of Lagos settlers.

Of course, the roof of the theatre was almost brought down when Fela’s look alike and his dancers stormed the stage to perform some of the late legend’s hit songs.

As the story line goes, Saro is a story of the African dream mixed with hope, self-will, love and determination. In Saro, the producer explored the journey of four young courageous village men who step out of their comfort zone, in search of success, to city life in Lagos. A devastating experience lands them in the lap of destiny, success ignites them and love fuels them.

The musical highlights the spirit and rich cultural heritage of Lagos through music and dance. Saro paints the honest picture of life in the city, the ups and downs, the smiles and the tears. Saro takes you on a roller-coaster of emotions through stellar acting, spectacular African costumes, vibrating dancing and music. Saro as a play speaks the universal language of music. It is a realistic exposure of characters that are relatable with a warmth that draws you into their world.

Weaving together the trials, misfortunes, loves, and destinies of the foursome into a nine act masterpiece, Saro tells the inspiring story of the journey to success in a harsh, unwelcoming city; as the audience saw Lagos personified by numerous colorful and unforgettable characters, frenetic pace of living, and endless drama. The show closed to a standing ovation and delighted calls for an encore.

Kudos to the organisers, audiences in the UK, Nigeria and across the world would continue to enjoy a fantastic time as experience has clearly shown that Nigerian stories resonate and people want to see and hear tales about Nigeria’s beautiful culture.

And with productions like ‘Saro’- written and produced by Nigerians, the country is

taking ownership and telling her stories.

The event was a huge success.

Technically, the theatre was superb as each scene depicted the setting through a large screen in the background. Bob Manuel, the veteran actor who acted the ‘Don’ also didn’t disappoint as he brought many years of acting experience on stage. Kunle Afolayan was also at his best while Tinsel darling, Gideon Okeke put in his best.

Ade Laoye who acted Jane and one of the dancers, Dolapo Phillips also made the audience roar with laughter throughout the three-hour entertainment.

From the fitting sessions and rehearsals, the road to glittering success for this year’s edition of the stage play was paved with stellar talent, sheer hard work from both the organizers, cast and crew. Spanning months of preparation, it was another grueling season of grounding which Austen-Peters has become used to since she traded her law degree and diplomatic career for promotion of indigenous plays.

Basking in the euphoria of a successful outing, Corporate Relations Executive of MTN, Tobe Okigbo said MTN is desirous of promoting Nigerian culture. “What Saro, Wakaa and Kakadu are doing to the Nigerian image internationally is impressive. In terms of ingenuity and strength, acting and Nollywood are promoting Nigerian arts and culture positively. The cast members are credible, the directing, and everything is excellent. This is MTN Foundation way of contributing to the positive image of Nigeria because we are exposing the cast to the international audience. If anything happens there, film directors or producers can spot talents who may end up on Broadway. This may be a turning point in their career. Essentially, it is like showcasing the best of Nigeria. This is not about ‘Nigeria as the most corrupt country or about insurgency.’ As a Nigerian brand, MTN is saying this is who we are,� Okigbo

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SEPTEMBER 3, 2017 ˾ T H I S DAY, T H E S U N DAY N E W S PA P E R

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said The Executive Secretary, MTN Foundation, Nonny Ugboma spoke in the same vein. She noted that “Nigeria is witnessing a revival of sorts in the quality and popularity of theatre and we are honoured to be part of this renaissance.

We successfully partnered with BAP Productions on the premieres of two musicals.

Corroborating Ugboma, a director with the Foundation, Mrs. Aishatu Sadauki said apart from promoting arts and culture, the motive behind the Foundation’s support is to promote Nigeria’s image. “You know arts, culture and music are fascinating areas and there are so much talents. When I was a girl, my sister wanted to do music but my parents refused. Arts, music and culture is another way of expression. This is just the beginning because what we are doing is a drop in the ocean as other corporate organizations can also support. We are happy that we are doing well.”

Lending his voice, another director with the Foundation who was also a guest of honour in the six-day stage fiesta, Hon. Reginald Chukwuemeka Okeya said MTN Foundation as a corporate body is involved in a lot of CSR projects and the London show was just one of them. “We have done it in South Africa and now London.

We are determined as a Foundation to revolutionize Nigerian art and creative industry. The motive is to promote Nigerian culture. Wakaa gave us more leverage, it makes the brand more popular both within and outside Nigeria. This project will continue. The success so far has been excellent as an average Nigerian will know about MTN Foundation.”

Speaking on the renaissance that the art and culture industry in Nigeria is experiencing, Austen-Peters noted that her company is playing a great role in preserving and exporting Nigeria’s rich culture. “The unique mix of old and young

acting talents and the deliberate effort and commitment of the entire team translates to this success story and we hope to achieve even greater feats,” she said.

While commending the producer and promoter of the show, movie producer abd director, Kunle Afolayan, said “I have done stage in the past, but having been behind the camera in the past few years, this outing was very refreshing for me.”

The play drew many notable Nigerians among whom were Chairperson, First Bank, Nigeria Plc., Mrs. Ibukun Awosika, Managing Director, Standard Chartered Bank, Mrs. Bola Adesola, Managing Director, NLNG, Mr. Tony Attah, First Minister, Nigerian High Commission in London, Mrs. Olufolakemi Abudurasaq, directors, MTN Foundation, Mrs. Aishatu Sadauki and Hon. Reginald Chukwuemeka Okeya, Mr. Tobe Okigbo, Mrs. Yewande Zaccheaus, Mrs. Nimi Akinkugbe, Mrs. Ekua Abudu and Mr. Toyin Subair among others.

With the diversification of Nigeria’s economy, the creative industry has taken center stage as a viable area for revenue generation. The sector has begun to attract more investors thereby giving visibility and access to the Nigerian market just as BAP productions continues to blaze the trail in the promotion and sustenance of Nigerian theatre, stimulating interest and participation by both government and private sector.

For Austen-Peters, her efforts in promoting indigenous play is made possible by sponsors, partners and government who have steadfastly supported the re-emergence of the arts, creative industry and cultural heritage.

She believes Nigeria’s creativity will continue to be celebrated both locally and internationally and Nigeria will definitely become a major tourism destination.

Wakaa was first staged at Oriental Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos in 2013.

L-R: Mrs. Ibukun Awosika, Mrs. Bolanle Austen Peters and Nonny Ugboma

L-R: Ayodeji Salami, Tobe Okigbo and Funso Aina

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ÍŽÍśÍŻÍŻÍ˛Í˛ÍˇÍłÍąÍ°Í˛Ëœ nseobong.okonekong@thisdaylive.com

In One Nite: Live & Unplugged Show Muma Gee Marries Sexy and Talent, Celebrates Children, Blasts Former Husband...But What Does the Jargon Skilashi Mean?

Nseobong Okon-Ekong reports that singer Muma Gee’s recent show in Lagos could nearly pass for a comeback, except that she showed capacity for a more robust performance in the future

G

ift Iyumame Eke, better known as Muma Gee, is not exactly a mainstream musician. Her music has never risen to that giddy stature where it drives everybody like performance drug. However, what you cannot take from her is that she knows how to hold down a show and keep the crowd eating out of her palms; begging for more. Her training as a graduate of Theatre Arts is showcased every time she steps in front of an audience. From her sexy costume, to her engagement with spectators and her stage craft, she consistently exudes a spellbinding show.

Think of Nigeria’s Tina Turner, a mature woman who still has enviable erotic moves like a younger lady; that’s Muma Gee! At 39 and having given birth to three children (her first was a set of twins) in six years of marriage, Muma Gee still has a body that many men want to die for. So she is courageous to tease the crowd with some erogenous part of her body. For this show, she came to the stage in an all-black outfit with yellow accessory necklace. Her ankle-length see-through jacket was not covering much, but since it impeded her movement a couple of times, she yanked it off, somewhere along the line, to reveal a pair of skimpy shorts and a camisole that showed generous flesh around her mid-section. Her signature Afro hair was in place. For about five years, she took a back seat from the entertainment scene to assume the role of a housewife and mother.

In between, she dabbled into politics.

However, Ngozi Omambala’s leisure platform, ‘One Nite: Live and Unplugged’ recently rolled out the magic carpet to accommodate Muma Gee in a heated session of performance that left many breathless and screaming for a repeat. Muma’s show brought the One Nite Live and Unplugged event to the mainland of Lagos, at the X-Factor Lounge on Adeniran Ogunsanya Street in Surulere, for the first time. Previous episodes in the last six years held on the island. The show could nearly pass for a Muma Gee come back, except that she did not have full control of the planning and other factors leading to the show. Although, the instrumentalists comprising the One Sound Band displayed superb skills and talent on their individual instruments, Muma said she would have loved to have more hours of rehearsal with them to achieve better cohesion and understanding.

Once during the show, she waved her hand and thought the instrumentalists understood the signal to pause. Visibly irritated that they did not dollow her cue, she queried, “Are you guys crazy?� She made up for this outburst when it came to her attention that it was the drummer’s birthday. To placate him and the entire band, she momentarily shifted attention to him with a birthday song.

In the course of entertaining an audience, veering off a planned course does not always result in a disaster. Many times, it is smoothened over in a haze of jibes and the audience would not even notice. However, bringing an excited instrumentalist back

Who Goes Home Tonight?

Vanessa Obioha

The tough calls are in for the contestants and judges as The Voice Nigeria season two kicked o its live shows. Out of the 16 contestants (four from each team) who performed at the ďŹ rst live show last weekend, only four were saved by their judges. The remaining 12 will have to depend on the public votes to proceed to the next round of the competition. However, only four of them can be saved, that is, one from each team.

At the live screening of the ďŹ rst episode

Muma Gee at the show (L) with Dede Mabiaku , (top) Ngozi Omambala with Obukome Ibru, Elajoe and Gloria Ibru to the rehearsed course shows the fronts man is sharp witted and has the show under control. Muma demonstrated this leadership trait a few times when the bassist wanted to start her off on a song while she was still talking.

Her first song of the night was a gospel to praise the awesomeness of God titled, ‘Adoration’. She preceded the song with acknowledgement of VIPs like Frank Oshodi, Elajoe, Ann Njemanze, Anita Joseph, and the Ibru sisters-Gloria, Obukome and Elvina. It was, arguably, the only sober period of her act. It, however, established her vocal pattern throught the night: There will be a lot of yelling to emphasize certain words and phrases; as well, there will be a lot of interaction with the audience.

More than anything else, the first song also established that she was going to approach the show with unapologetic arrogance. This statement gave the hint. “I know we are in a club, but this is a concert, as far as I am concerned.�

The brashness in her speech may have jolted a few.

Only Fela Anikulapo-Kuti had the bold-

ness to address the kind of issues she did in next song, ‘Stolen from Africa’ which was given an Afro-jazz delivery. Before launching into the song, she highlighted the evils of colonialism. The third song, ‘No Leave Me So’, was a south-south highlife tune; rooted in thumping drumbeats and fast pace. She sought dancers from the audience who could join her on the floor to gyrate while waving handkerchiefs in the air-typical Niger Delta style.

Still addressing commonplace issues, she presented the song, ‘Scream’, an Afrorock sound, which draws attention to the chaotic lifestyle in cities like Lagos-blaring horn from frantic drivers, too much noise from generators. These commotion, she said takes a toll on her; so she can’t sleep.

Sometimes, the madness is multipied in dizzying proportions and it makes her want to scream! As expected, the arrangement of the song made room for an entertaining session allowing the lead guitarist display his dexterity much to the appreciation of the audience. The song fittingly ends with a long, blood cuddling shriek!

She was still screaming when the guitar

held in Terra Kulture, Victoria Island, Lagos, the audience had mixed feelings as they watched their favourite contestants placed on the eviction block. Shouts of despair rent the air each time one or two contestants is unsaved by the judges.

Team Patoranking kicked o the night with Kessydriz performing Tina Turner’s ‘What’s Love Got to do with it’, while Afolayan showed his versatility with J Martin ft P-Square’s ‘E No Easy’. Voke, the short man in the group got the audience singing along with his performance of Reekado Bank’s ‘Ladies and Gentlemen’.

However, it was Hightee who stole the show.

Her rendition of Lauryn Hill’s ‘That Thing’ was jaw-dropping. She performed the song with so much charisma that for a moment, it was diďŹƒcult to believe that she was just a contestant in the reality show and not the owner of the song. Apparently, Patoranking saw the rare gem in his team and saved her, leaving Voke, Kessydriz and Afolayan up for eviction.

It was indeed a very tough call for Timi for he has the most talented contestants.

Tonight’s episode will reveal who will be moving on to the next stage of the completion and who will be going home.

struck the tune for AWS, African Woman Skilashi, an Afropop song which Muma Gee predicts will relaunch her to reckoning this month. The producer of the song was in the audience. The street appeal in AWS is evident. Pandering to women’s baser instincts, she whips up powerful emotions that are difficult to ignore. Of course, the women roared in response when she asked them if they have got their ‘Skilashi tight’. But what in the world does the lingo, ‘Skilashi’ mean?

Perhaps, this verse from the song points to its implication. “I’ve got my skilashi/my efizzi/I’m sexy/ Afrotastic/African woman� “My body no be for rental/rather na instrumental/I no dey try to dey judgemental/This matter e serious and crucial/ Why you go want to taste my centre/And if you force yourself to enter/You go no say khaki no be leather/I go wind you so tey you go mental.�

Your interpretation of the punch line and word play is as good as mine. From the reaction of the crowd, Muma Gee may have added another word, skilashi, to the glossary of street songs. And judging by the excitement at X-Factor that night, the women and men have different explanations for skilashi. The line of reasoning continued to widen when Muma Gee pointedly accused men of being “looters of the African woman skilashi�.

The women agreed. The men disagreed.

As she couldn’t find enough space on the dance floor, she entered one of the guest booths, climbed the couch and raised her hands to acknowledge cheers. Putting one leg across the rail, she wriggled her waist, arched her booty and continued to sing, “I get my skilashi‌my efizziâ€?. At this point, she invited Elvina Ibru who she described as a goddess and diva. Before Elvina said anything, Muma urged her to turn around and show her skilashi. So, is skilashi a woman’s booty? Perhaps. A seemingly shy Elvina went on to shake backside cautiously before she handed out a warning. She said, “To all the young women, I want to tell you use your brain, not your breast. One day the breast will fall.â€?

It would take a while before Muma

Abdulfatah Endorses Gbenga Adeyinka’s Laffmattazz

The Governor of Kwara State, Abdulfatah Ahmed has endorsed the 8th edition of Laffmattazz with Gbenga Adeyinka 1st and Friends in Ilorin.

The endorsement is coming after the topflight comedian, Gbenga Adeyinka 1st kicked off preparations towards the hosting of the 8th edition of the comedy and music event in Ilorin.

His Excellency, Abdulfattah Ahmed, has been named the special guest of honour at the show, which will also have special appearances from Nollywood

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Different faces of Muma Gee (inset) with daughter, Oma

noticed Dede Mabiaku in the crowd and she was inspired to fuel the prevailing enjoyment by bringing Dede on stage.

Dede threw up a clarification that tears the house into the kind of fierce rivalry between arch fans of opposing football teams. His summation was that if the United Nation says that there are five women to one man, then women have the power to change or perpetrate whatever they like to see in the society. He changed to chorus to “five women to one man, na so di tin e be”. That sounded like an advantage to the men, as they cheered Dede on.

The next song, ‘Workshop’ continued the notion of pitching men against women; or was it women against men? Muma continued her bitchy rage against men when she hit the male folk hard for not paying when they go into a woman’s ‘workshop’.

The reason for her apparent bellyaching against men would soon be revealed. In an honest outpouring from heart, she said. “In six years of marriage, my husband packed out of my house six times. Each time, he would return with cock-and-bull stories, buy a gift for me and we would make peace. All those years, I was responsible for all the financial responsibility that should normally be discharged by a man. I did not complain. On top of that, my husband cheated on me with different women. I took it all in the hope that he would be truly remorseful, but when I became convinced that he was using me as his meal ticket and

he made the mistake of packing out of the house again, I told him it was over. He has been going around maligning my name. I never said anything in public until tonight.

I do not drink alcohol. I do not smoke. I was faithful to my husband when I was his wife. Nobody can say that they caught me cheating on him. That is a bit of my story.”

Apart from re-launching her career in music, Muma announced that she is set to study Law at the University of Lagos. She is also packaging a tourism-cum-culture television programme called ‘Culture Rocks’.

The audience applauded loudly when she brought her three children on stage. It was the birthday of her last child, Oma. The show promoter, Ngozi Omambala was very happy. She said, “Muma Gee was simply electric on stage. She is a seasoned musician. It was a gritty, raw and honest live performance set, full of integrity with nothing sugar coated.

We welcome back this powerhouse of a Diva energised, rebranded and ready to take the industry by storm as shown by a surprise & impromptu performance with Afrobeat legend Dede Mabiaku present as a guest. They collectively had everyone up in a frenzy of appreciation – two legends, real music, it was a music master class in live music.”

The show featured other warm up artistes like MTrill, OC, Collabo from Ghana, Surprise and GBT winner SQUI displaying fantastic performance.

The Grand Comedian of Nigeria and Master of Ceremony extraordinaire, who has set out to reinvent comedy in Nigeria by taking 1st class premium Comedy shows to the entirety of Southwest hitherto considered unattractive by mainstream comedians and promised to rock the states with his Laffmattazz train, is ecstatic about the recent development.

The mission to take over the South West kicked off about six years ago with the last show holding about four months back with the hosting of the Ibadan edition of the Laffmattazz With Gbenga Adeyinka And Friends on Easter Sunday.

Adeyinka said: “We have been blessed with

supportive leaders in the South West. From Lagos to Ibadan, Ogun State, Osun State and now Kwara, the governors have been nothing but supportive. Hence, my joy with the endorsement from His Excellency for our show .”

Billed to hold today at the Banquet Hall, opposite Government House, the comedy, music and family show will have Gbenga Adeyinka 1st, Reminisce, Olu maintain, QDot, Terry Apala, Gandoki, Omobaba leading the pack of entertainers to perform.

With DJ Incredible, DJ Banky and DJ Lollypop holding down the wheels of steel, other entertainers to rock the show include Bash, Capital Femi, Dotman, Lord of Ajasa, Toqs, Sonorous and a host of others.

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Cheers to the New Taylor Swift Vanessa Obioha Call her new iteration an imitation of Beyonce’s sassiness or not, one thing is very clear: The old Taylor Swift is dead.

At least, that was the message the 27 year-old artiste ostentatiously conveyed in her new video ‘Look What You Made Me Do’. The video broke three records in its first week of release. The song which was released on August 24 with an accompanying lyric video received 19 million views in its first day. The following day it garnered 8 million streams in Spotify and on Sunday night when it was released during the VMAs, it was viewed almost 30 million times in 24 hours. Adele was previously holding this title with her video ‘Hello’ which achieved 27.7 million views.

Arguably, in more ways than one, Swift can be said to have taken more than a clue from the Sasha Fierce Queen.

One which is visibly clear and has drawn criticisms is the striking semblance to Beyonce’s ‘Formation’ video. The visuals were very similar to Beyonce’s.

But beyond that, Swift certainly took more than that from the queen. Her timing for the release of her video during the VMAs is nothing short of what Beyonce did last year at the Super Bowl. The singer chose to perform the Formation song at the event and followed it up with the release of her video. This strategy is what Swift adopted when she decided to release the video of her song during the VMA, an event that she ostensibly was absent from. Her actions too reeked of a hidden motive that goes beyond the spotlight.

It is no news that there is no sisterly love between Swift and Katy Perry. Swift has deftly continued to push Perry to the background each time the latter seemed to hit the spotlight. Take for instance, Swift’s decision to release her full music catalogue on all streaming platforms at the same time Perry released her new album Witness. At the time, Swift’s excuse for her action was that she wanted to celebrate the historic landmark of her 1989 album hitting the 100 million sales mark of RIAA. Now on a night where Perry was hosting the VMAs, Swift decided to release her video, once again, taking the shine from Perry. Could there be some truth in Kim Kardashian’s public perception of the singer as a snake? Well, Swift didn’t forget that part in her video. She publicly showed that she had accepted the name with her throne of snakes but not without sending a stronger message to Kim’s husband Kanye West. Kanye who in more than one occasion has never ceased a moment to deride the artiste. From his ‘Famous’ video to his Pablo concert.

Swift’s response was to showcase all the characters she has assumed in the past and to pronounce to Kanye that the old Swift is dead. She is no longer cowered by his daunting insolence.

Irrespective of what the critics are saying, the truth is that Swift’s strategy has worked well for her. She has broken records and more important, the spotlight is still on her. If there is anything she has promised her fans, it will be that she is a bolder and fiercer artiste. So, cheers to the new Taylor Swift.

MORE CELEBRITIES PLEDGE SUPPORT FOR HARVEY RELIEF

More and more celebrities are throwing their weight behind Hurricane Harvey relief. The storm which started on Saturday swept southeastern Texas and Louisiana and left many families homeless and bereaved. The latest artist to pledge support to the storm relief is Beyonce’s sister, Solange. The singer announced recently that she will be having a benefit concert on September 28 at the Orpheum Theatre in Boston. Proceeds from the concert will be given to victims and families affected by the storm.

Her sister, Beyonce started an initiative to raise money for local organisations through her BeyGood Foundation.

Also recently, actor and singer Jamie Foxx announced a telethon for Harvey relief.

He donated $25,000 to GlobalGiving as his own contribution to the natural catastrophe that has claimed lives. The telethon which is scheduled for September 12 will feature celebrities like Reese Witherspoon, Blake Shelton, Hilary Duff and Michael Strahan.

Other artistes who have pledged their support towards the natural disaster include Kevin Hart who donated $25,000, Chris Young $100,000, Fall Out Boy whose proceeds from a November 7, show will go to Harvey’s relief efforts; Miley Cyrus pledged $500,000 while Drake pledged $200,000.

Jamie Foxx

EGYPTIAN DIRECTOR AMR SALAMA IS MAKING AN ANTI-AMERICAN FILM

Not everyone is comfortable with the portrayal of one’s country in a bad light in a movie. This seems to be the case for an Egyptian director, Amr Salama. The award-winning director said he hated Clint Eastwood’s blockbuster ‘American Sniper ’ and its portrayal of the villain Mustapha.

American Sniper told the story of aUS marksman Chris Kyle (Brad Pitt) who was pitted against a mysterious sniper, Mustapha on the side of the Iraqi terrorists.

Salama’s hatred has however fired him up to make a movie that will be anti-American Sniper.

So far, he has developed a script for his project called ‘Iraqi Sniper ’. The movie will tell a compassionate story about Eastwood’s Arabic villain. In his movie, Mustapha will be the hero. To further drive home his point to create an anti-war film, he has engaged the services of one of the actors, Sammy Sheik that was on his rival’s film. He will be working with big names in his region like producer Mohamed Hefzy who collaborated with him on his awardwinning film, ‘Sheikh Jackson’.

Beyonce and Solange

Taylor Swift

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Ooni of Ife Launches Isedowo

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he Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi Ojaja II has launched Goldberg’s empowerment scheme, Isedowo and commended Nigerian Breweries Plc for the initiative at the flag-off of the campaign.

The event, which held at the palace of the revered monarch in Ile Ife, Osun State, had in attendance prominent Obas and chiefs from the Southwest region of the country.

The Imperial Majesty expressed his appreciation for the youth emancipation initiative and commended Nigerian Breweries at the occasion for taking a bold step at improving the lot of small-scale entrepreneurs in the Southwest region. “On behalf of my brothers from the seven Yoruba speaking states, I thank Goldberg lager beer and Nigerian Breweries for this community partnership with the Yoruba people.

By leading the way to support the businesses and entrepreneurial potential of artisans in the Southwest, you have challenged other corporate bodies to give back to the society where they operate,� the monarch declared.

The King further called on all Yoruba youths who are skilled in trade to grab the opportunity to showcase their business potential and be rewarded.

The Marketing Director, Nigerian Breweries Plc, Franco Maria Maggi declared during the occasion that Goldberg was honoured to identify with the King through Isedowo.

He added that the empowerment initiative presented a mutually benefitting union between His Majesty, who is the custodian of the Yoruba culture, and Goldberg, a brand that not only respects the values and traditions of the Yoruba people but also seeks to empower the young men and women in the region. “We believe that as the custodian of the Yoruba culture, your blessings will rub off positively on Isedowo. It will set it on a path of achieving the

L-R: The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi Ojaja II; Adeola Olajide, an auto mechanic and beneďŹ ciary of Isedowo’s â‚Ś300,000 business grant; Franco Maria Maggi, Marketing Director, Nigerian Breweries Plc at the unveiling of Goldberg’s Isedowo, a youth empowerment initiative, at the Ooni’s palace in Ile Ife, Osun State.

objectives of positively transforming the lives of its beneficiaries with spill over effects on the larger economy by way of increased job creation and income,� Maggi said.

The occasion also witnessed the rewarding of the first set of entrepreneurs who were selected as the best in Osun State.

Adeola Olajide, an auto mechanic from Abeokuta, Ogun State who resides and works in Ile Ife, Osun State, emerged as one

of the beneficiaries and was rewarded during the occasion. He expressed his gratitude to Goldberg for the support, adding that the initiative was a welcome development. “When I heard the news on radio, I realised this is one-of-a-kind in this part of the country, and I decided to grab the opportunity. I am very happy to have emerged a winner today and with my reward, I intend to buy equipment that would bring about ease in my business,�

he said.

Interested participants who wish to benefit from the empowerment scheme are required to showcase their business ideas and how it impacts on the society at any of the Isedowo centres around the Southwest region. There will be a screening of these participants and their business ideas across the region after which the top 100 participants will be rewarded with a grant of N300,000 each.

A Splendid Evening with Remita Vanessa Obioha

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ne thing was certain; the Remita Mobile App launch was going to be a grand event. Having launched the beta version earlier in the year, the ICT leading firm SystemSpecs threw in all to give the launch of its full version on Android and Apple mobile devices a befitting ceremony. The camaraderie and glamour can be felt right from the entrance of the Zinnia’s hall of Eko Hotels &Suites where the event held. Cool jazzy African vibes blared out of loudspeakers while early guests indulged in the free flow of cocktail drinks and snacks. Being a formal event, it was the perfect opportunity to hobnob and network with executives from the banking and ICT sectors.

Inside, the hall has been transformed to a cozy setting accentuated by the bright orange colours of Remita. There were three huge screens on stage: two were used for extra viewing while the other one served as a projector for presentations. DJ Neptune whose booth was close to the stage dished out cool vibes that set the mood for the evening.

Although the event didn’t kick off at the scheduled time, it didn’t fail to give a lasting impression. Opening the night were two talking drummers and dancer who entertained the audience with their sounds as dance moves.

With this whetting appetite, the Managing Director of SystemSpecs, John Obaro mounted the stage and gave a rousing speech on the journey so far.

Remita is not a new service in the market.

The payment solution which helped individuals and organisations to make and receive payments easily has been around for more than a decade.

However, what Obaro and his team

John Obaro (l) and Dr. Christopher Kolade

of geniuses have done is to simplify the accessibility of the payment solution to its teeming users, particularly now when keeping control of finances could be a real hassle for individuals and SMEs. The end product is a mobile app that makes banking easier. With this, individuals with accounts in any commercial bank can easily access their account balances on one screen, conveniently make and receive payments across various bank accounts, and settle bills to several merchants within the private and public sectors from their mobile phone.

One of the outstanding features of Remita App is that it allows users, whether individuals or businesses, to request payments from anyone in style. At a click, they can simply share a QR code via email, WhatsApp and other social media platforms. All the payer would need to do is to snap the QR code from their smartphone or tap their device against the biller’s to complete transactions.

Small and medium business entrepreneurs are not left out; they can easily switch between their business and personal profiles and also translate their existing physical process flows into a virtual form. As a result, individuals who for instance play different roles in various organisations as transaction approvers, would be able to play such roles using the app from their mobile phone – without needing to make physical appearances at work. “Remita App places so much power in the hands of users by making it much easier and faster for them to manage their accounts across various banks and settle bills, on-thego. It is particularly exciting that so much can be done from the comfort of their mobile device, without needing any other mobile app, any token, or visiting any bank branch,� said Obaro.

In addition to the features earlier made available on the app during its beta release,

users of Remita Mobile App will now enjoy a number of new features which would enable them to seamlessly make payments for others, view their payslip, and manage their business and personal accounts. “As an organisation, we place a lot of premium on convenience and much simpler lifestyle choices, especially as regards financial transactions. As a result, we are always working to surpass expectations by coming up with innovations that will meet the aspirations of our numerous customers. Remita app is the end product of this effort,â€? said AdĂŠdèjĂŹ OlĂłwè, Executive Director, Products and Services, at SystemSpecs.

Despite the beautiful features the app parades, the key question on most users’ mind is security. But they need not worry as Obaro explained that the security of access and transactions on the platform has been prioritised through standard industry security measures as well as specific security layers built into the app.

Such measures include Personal Security Number, fingerprint authentication and One-Time Password (OTP) verification.

Commending the team for coming up with such a brilliant idea, Chairman, Board of Trustees of SystemSpecs Christopher Kolade in his speech said that Nigerians should cultivate the culture of positive branding. He admonished the media for spreading news that tarnishes the country’s images and urge them to report and celebrate giant strides like this in the country.

Also in attendance is the former governor of Ogun state, Otunba Gbenga Daniel and Chairman, Senate Committee on ICT, Sen. Abdulfatah Buhari; To round off the event was fast-rising comedian Kenny Black whose amazing skills and jokes nearly made some of the guests choke on their meals as they could hardly contain themselves.

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minent personalities from the South-east and members of Agulu Youths were among the audience who converged at the Agulu TownHall, Anambra State recently to commemorate the 63rd posthumous birthday and third anniversary of late Prof. Dora Akunyi with a lecture titled: ‘The Resounding Life Impacts of Prof. Dora Nkem Akunyili - A Challenge for Reformational Leadership’. Here are faces of personalities at the event

L-R: Former Governor of Anambra State, Peter Obi; Dr. Chike Akunyili (Dora Akunyili’s husband ); Igwe of Agulu,HRH, Innocent Obodoakor; Former Minister ofWomen Affairs, Mrs. Josephine Anenih and a youth corps member

L-R: Guest speaker, Dr. Pat Ndu; Prof. Mrs. Chinyere Okunna and Reverend Obidiegwu

L-R: President General Women Wing Agulu, Mrs. Theresa Akubueze; Dora Akunyili’s elder sister, Mrs. Rose Okpala and Chief Paulinus Aniagboso.

Mr. Peter Obi (left) and Dr. Chike Akunyili

L-R: President General of Agulu, Chief (Dr) Andy Orakwelu; HRH, Igwe of Agulu, Igwe Innocent Obodoakor; former Vice-Chancellor, UNIZIK Awka, Prof. Pita Ejiofor and Josephine Anenih

A cross-section of students of Agulu Girls’ High School

A cross section of audience at the lecture to commemorate late Dora Akunyili

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03.09.2017

IN CELEBRATION OF OKPEWHO’S LIFE AND LEGACY EDITOR OKECHUKWU UWAEZUOKE/ okechukwu.uwaezuoke@thisdaylive.com

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IN CELEBRATION OF OKPEWHO’S LIFE AND LE

A year after Isidore Okpewho’s death in the US, his friends, associates and admirers evening in his honour in Asaba. Okechukwu Uwaezuoke reports

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eeting place: Hotel Benizia in Asaba. Among the guests expected here tomorrow are the literary community’s leading lights.

But this is really not about them. Rather, the meeting – which calls itself a “literary evening� – turns the spotlight on the departed literary titan, Isidore Okpewho.

It was only last year that Okpewho closed his eyes to this side of existence at 74. Indeed, it'd be exactly a year by tomorrow, September 4. This was in a hospital in Binghamton in New York, US, where he had lived and taught since 1991.

More detailed reports suggested that he battled an undisclosed ailment and died “peacefully� from it.

Subsequently, on Saturday, September 17, his earthly cloak was interred at the Gate of Heaven Cemetery, East Hanover in New Jersey. This was after a funeral mass, among other rites, held the previous day at St Vincent de Blessed Sacrament Church in New York.

Meanwhile, the tomorrow’s “literary evening� in Asaba – billed to hold from 1pm to 5pm – is expected to feature special readings from two of Okpewho’s award-winning books (The Victims and The Last Duty), short critiques, eulogies and anecdotes, among others in celebration of the departed. The guest list, which flaunts names like Professor Pat Muoboghare, Dr Sunny Awhefedha, Odia Ofeimun and members of the deceased’s family, requires the participants at tomorrow’s event to deliver 10long eulogy on the life, works, scholarly stature and literary relevance of the late Okpewho.

They are also enjoined to speak on Okpewho’s “exemplary dedication and commitment to his chosen career or indeed any other aspect of the outstanding scholar, as [they] may deem appropriate and comfortable to handle.�

Okpewho, known to have been a novelist, poet, folklorist, scholar and university administrator, was described by the poet Niyi Osundare as “a Jack of many trades and master of all, who left his mindprints on virtually every aspect of African literature and literary studies�.

Okey Ndibe, a celebrated writer and visiting professor of creative writing at St Lawrence University, Canton, USA, was certain that “even in death, his name, reputation and work, his memory, would never dim or lose their lustre but would remain vital.�

Marame Gueye, an associate professor of African and African Diaspora Literatures in the English Department of East Carolina University, Greenville, North Carolina, US likened the death of “a scholar and mentor such as Isidore Okpewho, [to] losing a parent�.

Chiji Akoma, the acting chair, Department of Global Interdisciplinary Studies and associate professor of English at Villanova University in the US described the late writer as “a true iroko tree standing majestic in the public square, unperturbed by the passage of time�.

Okepwho would probably have winced at this eulogy. For he was a man known for his discreet lifestyle. This must have informed his family’s decision to make this important anniversary celebration a private affair. According to one of his acolytes, Professor Nduka Otiono, who spoke for the late writer’s family: “To commemorate the one-year anniversary of Professor Isidore Okpewho’s passing, his family will be gathering with friends to share memories, stories and prayers at his graveside

Osundare calls Okpewho “a Jack of many trades and ma aspect of African literature and literary studies�

Ofeimun

Mrs Obiageli Okpewho (right) with the childen and grandchildren at the cemetery in New Jersey last year in celebration of his rich life and legacy.�

As a foremost scholar of African oral literature and award-winning novelist, the late literary titan has engraved his name in the consciousness of many Nigerian literary enthusiasts. It is not surprising, therefore, that the news of his passage last year was received with shock in the Nigerian literary circles both at home and in the diaspora. Indeed, his renown as a distinguished man of letters continued to linger even within the first one year after his death.

Otiono also noted that this has been acknowl-

edged by intellectuals from various parts of the world. Several activities had held posthumously in his honour. Among these was the special roundtable on his life and work at the 2017 African Literature Association (ALA) conference at Yale University. The event, chaired by the new President of ALA, Professor Adeleke Adeeko, featured associates and speakers who had been taught by professor Okpewho and who had become professors in North America.

Born in the Delta State town of Agbor to an Urhobo father and a Igbo mother, he had his early education at St Patrick’s College in Asaba. Later, he studied classics at the then University College (now the University of Ibadan) in Ibadan and graduated with a first-class honours degree.

He would later further burnish his credentials with a PhD in comparative literature from the University of Denver in the US and a D. Litt from the University of London, UK. He had first worked at the Federal Ministry

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The Inverted Pyramid; Adapted from a novel by Emeka Dike

EGACY Ă?Ă™Ă˜Ă Ă?ĂœĂ‘Ă? Ă?Ă™Ăœ Ă‹ Ă–Ă“ĂžĂ?ĂœĂ‹ĂœĂŁ

aster of all, who left his mindprints on virtually every of Education, then at the Federal Ministry of External Affairs before becoming an editor with Longman Publishers, a post he held for eight years.

While in the US for his doctorate, he had taught at the University of Buffalo, The State University of New York from 1974 to 1976, Harvard University from 1990 to 1991 and Binghamton University.

His stint in academics also saw him becoming a fellow at the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars in 1982, Alexander von Humboldt Foundation in 1982, Center for Advanced Study in the Behavioral Sciences in 1988, the W.E.B. Du Bois Institute in 1990, National Humanities Center in 1997, and 2003 Guggenheim Fellowship.

Okpewho would become the president of the International Society for the Oral Literatures of Africa (ISOLA).

The fact that he wrote, co-wrote and edited 14 books, dozens of articles and a seminal booklet established his literary prominence.

His four novels – The Victims (1970), The Last Duty (1976, winner in manuscript of the African Arts Prize for Literature, an international competition organised by the African Arts Center, UCLA), Tides (1993, winner of that year's Commonwealth Writers' Prize, Africa region), and Call Me By My Rightful Name (2004) – are not only studied in Africa and other parts of the world, but also translated into other languages.

Among his non-fiction works are: The Epic in Africa: Toward a Poetics of the Oral Performance, (1979), Myth in Africa: AStudy of Its Aesthetic and Cultural Relevance (1983), Once Upon a Kingdom: Myth, Hegemony, and Identity (1998) and Blood on the Tides: The Ozidi Saga and Oral Epic Narratology (2014).

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A THESPIAN’S THREE SCORES Oji Onoko

H

e was meeting his boss, Fela Anikulapo Kuti for the first time. This was at the most unlikely place: a prison! The legendary musician had been locked away in Benin for falling foul of the Buhari/Idiagbon regime’s stringent foreign currency law on his way to an international engagement in 1984.

So here he was alongside Dr. Beko Ransome-Kuti, Fela’s younger brother and Francis Kertekian, the musician’s US-based manager at the office of the Controller of Prisons that Saturday afternoon awaiting the arrival of Fela. The young business manager was introduced to Fela without any formality after which two of the top politicians then serving time in the same prison on conviction on charges of corruption by the regime walked in. They were the former governors, Alhaji Barkin Zuwo, of Kano State and Alhaji Lafiaji of Kwara State. He was surprised hearing Barkin Zuwo actually thanking Fela “for giving the Muslim community in the prison, money to type minutes of their meeting‌â€?

For Dele Morakinyo, managing the affairs of Fela at such a testy time was onerous but his background came in handy. He attended Christ's School, Ado-Ekiti which influenced his artistic inclination as the school provided the right environment for creativity. He was active in literary studies, drama and scouting. He taught briefly as a teacher in the primary school before he got admitted to the then University of Ife, now Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife to read Dramatic Arts with specialization in Playwriting.

He studied under renowned theatre scholars like Professor Wole Soyinka, the late Dr Carroll Dawes, Sumbo Marinho, Oba Segun Akinbola and Dr Olu Akomolafe among others. He was in the production troupe of the 1st Ondo State Festival of Arts and Culture in 1976 and has produced drama and documentaries for radio and television.

He was Assistant director in Jaguar Nana's Daughter (film), The Turning Wheel (TV) and Prince of the Savanna (film). His feature and opinion articles have been published in The Guardian, Lagos Life, Sunday Concord, The Entertainer and Tempo magazine among others. He had also won the first poetry prize in the professional category in the Oyo State Festival if Arts and Culture

Morakinyo back in 1980. After graduation he freelanced on radio and newspapers before joining NTA, Ibadan. In Lagos, he featured in a popular soap on Lagos Television at the time tagged, Just a Wink ‌ Morakinyo who was introduced by Femi Falana, one of Fela’s lawyers to Beko Ransome-Kuti for the job settled in easily as Business Manager at the Kalakuta Organisation intent on proving his mettle. Some of his achievements while there include the registration of Kalakuta Organisation Ltd to take care of Fela’s business, signing of the contract for the release of Fela’s back

catalogue by a recording company and participating actively in the dramatic activities which led to Fela’s release from prison and all the accompanying media hype that took place then. “I guess it was a worthy experience which had its own impact on my life,� he reminisces.

But his foothold in Lagos had been secured. Later he was to publish the Independent Broadcasting News, now rested and serve as National Secretary General, National Association of Nigerian Theatre Arts Practitioners, NANTAP for two years and ex-officio for three years. Then he joined

Videolab/Audiolab Studios, the production arm of BatesCosse, an advertising agency in Ikeja, Lagos as Operations Manager‌ Before long the then governor of his home state in Ekiti, Dr. Segun Oni nominated him to the Presidency for appointment as Ekiti State Director of the National Orientation Agency (NOA) which was duly ratified.

Inevitably he relocated to Ado-Ekiti.

NOA was a unique exposure to public service at the very high level for him. The similarity of the mandate of the office with his background in theatre, media, writing and creativity generally made it interesting but equally challenging. As he recalls: “I virtually walked into my role as a mobilizer in the establishment,� he says.

After the tour of duty which lasted four years, he did not bother to return to Lagos.

Instead he launched his outfit, Diaspora Media, a multi- disciplinary creative hub engaged in concept, contents and production as well as in consultancy, training, event and promotion of ideas. He has thus been shuttling between Ado-Ekiti, Ibadan, Lagos and Abuja in pursuit of business opportunities. In 2015, he founded Niyi Osundare International Poetry Festival where he is the Chief Executive with Tunde Laniyan, a veteran theatre artiste and journalist as festival director to celebrate the peoples’ poet on an annual basis. . On what informed the setting up of the festival, Morakinyo says: “The idea was borne out of the inspiration that at a time when Nigeria was reeling under the burden of bad and dictatorial leadership, there was this Nigerian out there garnering literary honors in poetry across the globe. Prof. Osundare was, and still is the most decorated poet in Nigeria, and more instructively his poetry is deliberately made accessible to the people about whom he writes, and to whom he directs his message.�

So how does the restless thespian, TV producer, writer and publisher feel as he clocks 60 this September 3? “I feel good, thankful for what I have received and working and hopeful of what I still desire from life,� he replies.

On regrets, he says with philosophical calmness: “I don’t think it is right to regret while you are still alive. And who says your best is still not on the way? He queries. “I am learning to embrace what I have, overlook what I cannot no matter how well I strive, and work towards realistic goals for as long as I live‌â€?

--Onoko, a veteran journalist writes from Abuja.

PHOTOGRAPHY

Hanan Buhari's Photo Exhibition Rocks Abuja Yinka Olatunbosun

I

t was a roll call of dignitaries and art enthusiasts when the daughter of the Nigeria's President, Hanan Buhari demonstrated her passion for photography and showcased her creativity in a solo exhibition in Abuja, recently.

3HUKDSV WKH ÀUVW RI ÀUVW GDXJKters of the Nigerian state in history to attract such attention to arts, Hanan's example shows clearly that talent thrives with parental support. She bore the same sentiment in her later remarks.

Meanwhile, the Minister of Information, Lai Mohammed has described the exhibition as “a game changer�.

"This exhibition is a game changer in the sense that it is going to change the perception of our people towards the creative industry. I am using the word creative industry in a very elastic manQHU WR LQFOXGH ÀOP PXVLF SKRWRJUDSK\ interior decoration, architecture and publishing. The truth of the matter is that this is the future of Nigeria,'' the Minister said at the opening of the exhibition, whose theme is "Innovation

by Hanan".

The Minister added also that in the past generations, parents wanted their children to be lawyers, doctors, engineers and accountants. "It was very unusual in those days to see a parent that would encourage his son or daughter to take to the creative industry,'' he

L-R: Aisha Buhari, Hanan and Lai Mohammed at the exhibition.

said.

In his assessment of the pieces, Mohammed said the works of Hanan would change the perception of people towards the creative industry, which is not for drop-outs or the less-privileged in the society, but a sector for the highly talented. "What we are witnessing today is an endorsement from the highest quarter that the creative industry is that area of our economy, which we

have not really paid enough attention to," he said.

For the Minister, the government's target is to ensure that the creative industry contributes about 5% to the Gross Domestic Products (GDP) in the next few years, from its present contribution of 1.34%.

In her remarks, Hanan said she is inspired by her passion to show the world another side of Nigeria through unique photographs.

"You should always stand for yourself and let your parents know what you want to do," she said.

The wife of the president, Aisha Buhari, director generals of the National Tourism Development Board, Folarin Coker and the National Gallery of Arts, Abdullahi Sabo Muku, the Managing Director of the News Agency of Nigeria, Bayo Onanuga and some members of the diplomatic corps also witnessed the opening of the exhibition.

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Editor Olawale Olaleye Email wale.olaleye@thisdaylive.com, SMS: 08116759819

IN THE ARENA

Boko Haram: It’s Time to Seize the Momentum In spite of the palpable difficulty in containing the spread of terrorism in the North-east part of the country, there are recent openings the federal government could seize in larger and collective interest, writes Olawale Olaleye

T

he Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-General Tukur Buratai, didn’t say anything new when he said recently that the fight against terror was not over yet. Although he tried to maintain the propagandist stand of having technically defeated the terror group, he had only confirmed to a very large extent, what a majority of Nigerians had come to accept as the truth as far as the fight against terror is concerned.

Buratai, who spoke recently while declaring open the 19th Combat Service Support Training Week at the Command Guest House, Bauchi, through his representative, the Chief of Logistics, Army Headquarters, Abuja, Major General Rogers Ibeh Nicholas, said although the Nigerian army had recorded tremendous successes in the counterterrorism operations in recent time, there was need to consolidate the gains to prevent the terrorists from regrouping or re-strategising.

Not long after, the news came that the two factions of Boko Haram might be ready for talks with the federal government. Abdulkadir Abubakar, a former commander of the group, gave this indication. Also known as Abu Muhammad, Abubakar was the chief intelligence officer of the terror group and one of its top commanders, until his arrest in June by the military in Buni Yadi in Gujba Local Government Area of Yobe State.

Speaking to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) at his cell in Maiduguri, Abubakar said the Albarnawi and Mamman Nur factions of Boko Haram were willing to dialogue and co-operate with the government to defeat the most visible leader of the group, Abubakar Shekau, whose capture, dead or alive ultimatum issued by the military high command expired last Wednesday and who had been the major obstacle to peace, since the insurgency began in 2009.

Abubakar said Shekau was not willing to surrender due to his highhandedness and that the unfortunate part was that the government and military authorities had accorded priority to dealing only with Shekau.

“Albarnawi has indicated interest in dialogue with the government to end the insurgency and provide a lasting solution to the crisis. Albarnawi discusses this with members of his circle.

And I can assure the government that he would co-operate to achieve peace. The two factions are willing to co-operate with the Nigerian government to defeat Shekau,” he said, insisting that the groups were predisposed to a peaceful resolution of the eight-year-old crisis.

Abubakar, who claimed to have undertaken various espionage missions and provided intelligence to the insurgents, which enabled them to hit a long list of targets also confessed to leading the abduction of 276 students from Government Girls Secondary School, Chibok, as well as the massacre of students at Federal Government College, Buni Yadi, where over 20

students were murdered.

He also claimed to have been involved in other attacks on schools in Maiduguri, Damaturu, Postikum, and Mamudo but expressed his willingness to give the military useful information to crush the insurgents and arrest Shekau.

“I am co-operating with the military and I am ready to provide information on the whereabouts of Shekau. Shekau has left his enclave in Sambisa and moved deep into Mandara mountain. I know the area where he is hiding and willing to provide a guide to the military. The intensified military offensive has weakened Shekau’s position and that of the other groups,” he added.

While it is arguable that the military might have allowed Abubakar to give out too much information that would ordinarily have been useful in their intelligence gathering and management, these developments have provided clear opportunity for the military to once again decide on what it plans to do next as far as the fight against terror is concerned.

Although it is the view of war analysts that the use of carrot and stick was good, the trend the world over now is “talking to terrorist” as the way forward. But curiously, such approach is

not what authorities celebrate or make public. This is why the disposition of the military to Abubakar dishing out as much information defeats intelligence predisposition.

Not only is such an approach counterproductive, it may not be out of place for those who usually think it is a ploy by the intelligence community to tip off the other parties by putting out so much information, knowing full well that they would pick the necessary from the cocktail of information and restrategise.

But it is always cheering to share the news that the war against terror is promising, however approach has always been the problem. The not-so-smart and crude use of force alone have proved time and time again to be ineffective. But the openings have provided themselves almost unsolicited, only for the authority to see them and cash-in.

These days, dialogue and negotiation as crisis resolution tools can prove to be effective than anyone could imagine. Too many losses have gone into the use of force alone and that is no longer advisable when there is an approach that could save cost, reduce losses and give result. This is why government must seize the momentum and let it count.

P O L I T I CA L N OT E S

As Senator Misau, IG Idris Tango

S

Idris

Senator Misau

enator Isa Misau from Bauchi Central, last week, caused a major stir, when he accused the InspectorGeneral of Police, Ibrahim Idris, of collecting bribe to the tune of N10billion monthly from oil companies for police deployment. Whilst that figure sounds somewhat impossible, coming from a sitting senator, it cannot be brushed aside.

On their part, the police, while responding, declared the Senate Committee Chairman on Navy wanted for alleged forgery of a retirement letter from the service. The force

described Misau as a police deserter and that they had commenced an investigation into the purported retirement letter he’s been parading.

These are two messy cases that must not be glossed over. One, the allegations by the senator must be investigated thoroughly to ascertain the truth. On the other hand, the police accusation too must be looked into to uphold that which is true.

On the whole, recriminations of this nature cannot be flying about in an administration, whose only life line is the fight against graft and yet, no one is talking. It is simply bewildering!

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BRIEFINGNOTES FG’s Dilemma over Nnamdi Kanu The increasing agitation by the Indigenous People of Biafra could have been better managed by the federal government, writes Anayo Okolie

T

he request by the federal government to revoke the bail granted leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, for alleged violation of all the conditions attached to his bail has already started creating mix feelings among Nigerians.

Kanu was arrested in Lagos on 14 October, 2015 by the Department of State Services (DSS) on allegations of “criminal conspiracy, intimidation and membership of an illegal organisation.”

The charges also bordered on conspiracy, treasonable felony, publication of defamatory matter and Kanu’s alleged importation of goods contrary to Section 47(2)(a) of the Customs and Excise Management Act, Cap C45, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria. The federal government also alleged that Kanu had in a broadcast in London on April 28, 2015, through Radio Biafra, disparaged President Muhammadu Buhari, referring to him (Buhari) as “a pedophile, a terrorist, an idiot and an embodiment of evil.”

Thus, in spite of the many protests by several groups and court orders for his release, Kanu was detained by DSS for almost two years. It was later reported that the DSS had obtained a court order to detain Kanu for three months until the investigation of alleged terrorism and terrorism financing against him.

On November 23, 2015, Kanu was arraigned at Abuja Magistrate Court for the first time following charges, which DSS claimed violated “Section 97, 97B and 397” of Nigeria’s penal code.

As calls for his release led to demonstrations in many parts of South-east and beyond, Kanu was eventually granted bail. But three months after, the federal government is asking the court to revoke the bail granted him. The government cited disobedience to the bail conditions as part of the reasons for its request.

Some of the terms of his bail conditions included that he should not be seen in a crowd exceeding 10 people; that he should not grant any interviews, hold or attend any rallies; and that he should file in court medical updates of his health status every month. But all of these conditions he was said to have violated.

Government therefore contended that “rather than observing all of the conditions listed above, the 1st defendant in flagrant disobedience to the court order flouted all conditions of the bail; the first defendant has in furtherance to the offence (for which) he was charged, inaugurated Biafra Security Service; and that such an act is a grave threat to national security and unity of the country.”

The re-arrest move by the federal government has since landed in yet another debate. Whilst some thought that the government should not have considered that option, there were those who held the view that Kanu was fast treading out of line and should be tamed.

Unfortunately, the call by the federal government to re-arrest Kanu may not have come at a very good time, especially when the government has failed to act on the provocative statement made by Arewa Youths, asking the Igbo to leave the northern parts of the country.

The northern youths under the umbrella of Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (ACYF) had issued a three-month ultimatum for all Igbos in the 19 northern states to vacate the region, saying if the Igbo failed to leave by October 1, 2017, it would use force to evict them.

The group led by one Abdul-Azeez Suleiman also asked all northerners residing in the eastern part of Nigeria to return to their states within the period of the ultimatum.

“Our first major move shall be to reclaim, assume and assert sole ownership and control of landed resources currently owned, rented or in any way enjoyed by the Igbo in any part of northern Nigeria.”

The group warned that they would mobilise mass support from the north against the Igbo should they fail to hearken to the relocation order and went further to say that the federal government should not take its eviction notice to the Igbo as a joke.

Curiously, the Kaduna State Governor, Mallam Nasir el-Rufai, who knew the implication of the threat by Arewa youth immediately ordered the arrest of the Arewa members. He said they would not only be arrested but prosecuted, adding that ‘it is hate speeches that kill’.

The governor argued that disintegration was not the solution to the socio-economic crises afflicting the land, noting: “We all need Nigeria and it is from Nigeria that we will be greater.”

El-Rufai said, “The Kaduna State Government is grateful to the Igbo for coming. Kaduna has suffered so many crises, so, we are very sensitive to comments that incite and cause disaffection among the people. Kaduna used to be a

Kanu

home for all, but so many crises have divided the state and the metropolis across religious lines. As a government, we abolish indigeneship. Once you live in Kaduna, you are an indigene,” El-Rufai assured.

Sadly, since the governor called for the arrest of the Arewa youths, not an effort has been made by the police to rounding them up, knowing full well the implications of their quit order to the fragile peace in the land. Yet, the same government was quick to seeking a revoke order to Kanu’s bail, even though the IPOB leader has truly outstepped his bounds in all ramifications.

It was no surprise therefore that the President of Ohanaeze, John Nwodo, recently reacted to the development and warned the Attorney-General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, to respect his oath of office, and beam his attention on other urgent national matters.

“I am amazed that the distinguished attorney is prepared to contest the superiority of the provisions of the Constitution on fundamental human rights of freedom of movement and freedom of association over an erroneous judicial proclamation violating those rights.

“A few hours under the watchful eyes of the Chairman of the Northern Governors Forum and in total defiance of the Head of State’s proclamation of the rights of a citizen of Nigeria to live anywhere in Nigeria and to do business anywhere in Nigeria, the Arewa Youths, pretending to withdraw their quit notice, gave qualifications to the Head of State’s proclamation, issuing conditions for enjoyment of citizenship status.”

“These same Arewa Youths are supposed to have been arrested on the orders of the Governor of Kaduna State and the Inspector General of Police for acts of treason, conversion and sedition. As the chief law officer of the Federation, the Attorney-General looks the other way. He does not go to court to seek an order of arrest or prosecution.”

Ohaneze also disclosed that Nnamdi Kanu, as a citizen of Nigeria, was free to hold any point of view no matter how displeasing to anyone so long as they are not inciting or provoking any criminal activities. He argued that even though some Igbo leaders had differences of opinion with Mr. Kanu on certain matters, it did not mean they would sit back and allow his rights to be trampled on.

Justifying why the Arewa youths have not been arrested, the Minister of Interior, General Abdulrahman Dambazau, said the Arewa youths were not arrested because they claimed to have been misquoted by the media concerning the notice.

Dambazau said efforts being made by the Kaduna State Government and the ongoing dialogues were part of the reasons the Arewa youth were not arrested. “Secondly, it is on this basis that I am answering the question, but it is something that the Kaduna State Government is handling since that is where it happened. I want to think that it was on that basis that the arrest was not made.”

On Kanu’s alleged violation of bail conditions, Dambazau said it was the court that would decide his fate but that “it is not time yet for him to go back to the court for trial. We have this assumption but I think it is left for the court that gave those conditions to determine whether those conditions were violated or not.

“If those conditions were violated, the court knows what to do. We cannot assume that those conditions are being violated. Yes, the public knows but the determination of the extent of violation will be left for the court. It is not like the police will go after Kanu to arrest him on the grounds that he violated the bail conditions. Kanu will have a day in court and the court will determine his fate because it is the court that gave those conditions.”

Regrettably, the federal government is believed to have mismanaged Kanu ab initio. It is a general belief that his arrest in the first place was needless and ill-conceived, otherwise the current phase of agitations and his growing larger than life image would not have arisen at all. As much as a lot of sensible people see Kanu as mere attention seeker, who assigned himself a cause he didn’t deserve to champion, the arrest was what created the image he is now leveraging and a repeat of that could go either way.

It is therefore advisable that government ponders its options thoroughly this time and of course, not ruling out dialogue, which is still very desirable at this stage. Much as government is open to dialoguing with other agitators, including terrorist, it should not be difficult to engage the South-east leaders on this matter and give peace a deserving chance.

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With Anti-graft Treaties, Noose Tightens on Looters With the signing of anti-graft treaties with the United Arab Emirates penultimate week by President Muhammadu Buhari, the noose is now tightening on looters. But the success or failure of the pacts also lies squarely on how the nation’s legal authorities are diligent with their cases, writes Davidson Iriekpen

I

n a bid to strengthen the nation’s anti-graft war, President Muhammadu Buhari, penultimate week signed instruments of ratification for a number of bilateral agreements on anti-corruption with some countries, including the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

The agreements to be ratified are the pact on mutual legal assistance in criminal matters, the agreement on mutual legal assistance in civil and commercial matters, agreement on the transfer of sentenced persons and extradition treaty.

In his remarks after signing the agreements, President Buhari said he was delighted to perform the duty of executing instruments of ratification of certain agreements on behalf of Nigeria, pursuant to the powers conferred on him by Section 5(1) (a) and (b) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and Article 7 of the Vienna Convention on the law of treaties of 1969.

The president directed all relevant agencies to ensure that they play their defined roles in the implementation and application of the treaties, with a view to providing Nigeria with the inherent benefits. He said the agreements which had equally been replicated in the UAE on the relevant treaties, provides Nigeria with the full-fledged opportunity to enjoy cooperation with foreign authorities in the anti-corruption campaign.

“Today’s ceremony marks a very important milestone in our demonstration of sovereign capacity to fulfill our international obligations and take important steps for the benefit of our economy, security and the anti-corruption war within and outside Nigeria. The full implementation of the agreements has however been delayed due to the need by both sides to conclude their respective ratification processes.

“I am happy to note therefore that pursuant to a memorandum presented to the Federal Executive Council by the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, council has approved the ratification of the said agreements, thus paving the way for today’s ceremony.

“With this sovereign act, which has been replicated in the UAE by their responsible authorities, we are now in a position to utilise these agreements fully to foster cooperation between our respective authorities, particularly for the purpose of prosecuting the anti-corruption campaign of this government.

“It is my hope that these instruments which are signed today will reinvigorate the anti-corruption war and check the illicit flow of funds out of our country to other jurisdictions, improve national security, food security, boost our economic and tax regimes, and improve the overall well-being of our creative community. All agencies of government with roles to play under the respective treaties now ratified are hereby directed to ensure that they play their anticipated roles in an effective and responsible manner in order to ensure that we reap the full benefits of these agreements,” Buhari stated.

Before the latest signing, officials in the Buhari administration had signed a similar one when the president and the Crown Prince of the UAE Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan met in January 2016.

Speaking at a reception after the signing of the agreements, Buhari reiterated his commitment to fighting corruption and restoring Nigeria’s dignity in the comity of nations.

He also urged all Islamic countries to support the fight against terrorism in Nigeria and denounce the atrocities of Boko Haram as un-Islamic and against the teachings of the Holy Prophet.

In his remarks, Crown Prince Zayed Al Nahyan said the relationship between Nigeria and the UAE would be strengthened by President Buhari’s visit and the signing of the agreements.

Since the 1990s when Western nations adopted increasingly tough measures to stop the laundering of stolen Third World monies in their countries, crooked businessmen and public officials have been searching for alternative places to hide looted funds.

Buhari signing the treaties

Dubai, the UAE’s second largest emirate and city, offered itself as a very welcoming alternative.

Not because UAE’s rulers welcome theft and vice but because their free-wheeling open-arms commercial ways were quickly abused by crooked Nigerians.

Money looted from federal, state and even local governments as well as from banks and private companies, found its way into Dubai in particular and UAE in general and was laundered in property, stocks, trading and other commerce.

According to an international crime threat assessment prepared for the United States government by the Federation of American Scientists in 2002, “money-laundering activity in the UAE total $1 billion annually” after Dubai’s property sector was opened up to foreign buyers. But the authorities do not agree as they play down the extent of money laundering, saying there were laws to fight it.

For instance, a very good example was the case of a former managing director of a defunct bank in Nigeria. Under the plea bargain deal she made with the Assets Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON), she reportedly forfeited 100 different assets in Dubai alone, including shops and houses.

It was gathered that a former military administrator owns a 35-storey tower named after him in the city. The structure is worth several millions of dollars.

A former vice-president also has a state-of-the-art building in the upscale district, close to the Atlantis Hotel, which is one of the most expensive and luxurious hotels in the world.

Among others said to own exquisite structures in the Arab city are a former governor in the South-west, as well as a former radical Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister from the North.

Both properties are in the Deira axis of the emirate.

A former governor of a South-south state, who was recently convicted in London and a serving senior army officer are equally said to have eye-popping investments there, among many others.

Figures recently released by anti-corruption agencies in Nigeria put the amount so far stolen from the country and stashed in the UAE either in cash or invested in properties at over $10billion.

It therefore became expedient for the Nigerian government to sign the agreement and send shivers down the spines of many crooked public officers and businessmen in the country.

The goal of the agreement is to improve the effectiveness of both countries in the investigation and

prosecution of crime as well as the confiscation of criminal proceeds. Under the agreement, proceeds of crime are defined as “any assets derived or realised, directly and indirectly, by any person as a result of criminal conduct or the value of any asset, asset itself defined as money and all kinds of moveable or immovable or tangible or intangible property, and include any interest on such property.”

Under the second judicial agreement, the two countries agreed to “extradite to the other, upon request and subject to the provisions of the agreement, any person who is found in the territory of the Requested Party and is wanted in the Requesting Party for any prosecution or trial or execution of a sentence in respect of an extraditable offence committed within the jurisdiction of the Requesting Party.”

The pact went on to define extraditable offences as those that are punishable under the laws of both countries by a term of imprisonment of not less than two years or by a more severe penalty.

Many anti-corruption crusaders believe that the agreements would facilitate the return of such funds to Nigeria. Not only do crooked officials hide money in UAE; many former public officers also fled to the country, with their entire families, in order to escape investigation by police, EFCC and probe panels, hence the beauty of the extradition agreement.

They therefore advised the federal government to make the best use of agreements and seek as much information and cooperation as possible on laundered Nigerian assets in UAE. They however warned that having reaped enormous benefits from the activities of these crooked Nigerians, the federal government should not think that the UAE would easily seize all their assets and hand them over to the country. The legal authorities must compile their cases diligently and prove their cases authoritatively before Nigeria can reap the benefits of these landmark pacts.

Some of the analysts also urged President Buhari to sign many more agreements around the world as looters, who will definitely not sit idly by and wait for their loots to be recovered will seek alternative safe havens in other parts of the world given that the UAE’s legal system may not have the foxholelike quality of Western legal systems with endless escape routes.

First to commend President Buhari for signing the agreements is the Executive Chairman of the

Centre for Anti-corruption and Open Leadership (CACOL), Debo Adeniran, who said the signing was auspicious and timely “with the background of an expedient need to re-invigorate the anti-corruption drive. It will improve inter-border cooperation among the countries which will enhance their task of ensuring the security of lives and property.”

Adeniran said it would assist the anti-corruption agencies, particularly the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to trace looted funds stashed in Dubai and extradite the looter to Nigeria to face prosecution, adding that an example which easily highlights the significance of the signing of the treaty on extradition with UAE is the case of a former governor of Delta State, James Ibori.

“We must recall that the man decided to escape to Dubai when the EFCC with active collaboration of other law enforcement agencies were closing-in on him to face prosecution for corruption crimes in Nigeria because there was no extradition treaty between Nigeria and the UAE. However, unknown to Ibori, there was such treaty between the UAE and the UK, which as of then was in search of the former governor. He was thereafter extradited to the UK, where he was prosecuted and convicted on corruption charges…

“If you look around, that is why most of Nigerian looters have properties in Dubai. So, it is fashionable for looters to keep their loot in Dubai and tie it down there with properties. The treaty will now assist the EFCC to trace looted funds and seek assistance from the UAE for the extradition of the concerned persons when necessary. It will help the fight against corruption.”

“As we commend President Buhari for the bold and progressive step as it clearly shows his determination to combat corruption, we hasten to emphasize the quintessence of strengthening institutions, as they are the ones that will ensure the achievements so far endure and built upon as the country progresses. The federal government must also ensure it perseveres in its efforts to have similar treaties or agreements and other legitimate instruments with the UK, USA and other countries where loots from our country are being hidden.

Diezani Alison-Madueke’s extradition as a matter of fact should be on the priority list of fugitives which the FG through its agencies should be pursuing vigorously at present given the plethora of corruption charges she has to answer for,” Adeniran concluded.

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A cross section of the new obas with the governor and his wife

The New Ibadan Obas: Who’s Playing Politics?

Governor Abiola Ajimobi of Oyo State rewrote history recently when he ventured into the most delicate journey previously threaded by his predecessors to no fruitful end, with the unprecedented enthronement of 21 Obas in a city with a history that spans centuries of seamless ascendancy to the throne of Olubadan as the sole king in the ‘Mesiogo’ city. Ademola Babalola writes

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or obvious reasons, August 27 is a watershed in the history of Nigeria. The date was remarkable as it marked the forceful take-over of power from the then military Head of State, Major General Muhammadu Buhari, in a bloodless coup by the military junta headed by General Ibrahim Babangida, way back in 1985.

Thirty-two years down the line, this year’s August 27th was also remarkable in the annals of the great city of Ibadan, when the incumbent governor of the state, also a ‘shon of the soil’, Senator Isiaq Abiola Ajimobi, took the almost four million indigenes of the city by surprise by enthroning 21 new kings through the promotion of Ibadan High Chiefs and Baales (village heads) to the status of beaded-crown wearing monarchs.

The gesture which is causing uproar followed a report of the retired Justice Akintunde Boade-led Commission of Inquiry set up by the state government in June this year and which White Paper issued within one week of the submission of such ‘controversial’ report paved the way for the governor to so enthrone the new monarchs notwithstanding the Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Saliu Adetunji’s opposition to the review of Ibadan traditional council system.

A Peep into History

The Olubadan (meaning Lord of Ibadan) is the royal title of the king of Ibadanland in Nigeria, a largely symbolic role. Ibadan was founded in the 16th century, but the present Yoruba people only took control around 1820. By 1850, they had established their unusual succession principle, which is quite different compared with other traditional Yoruba rulers in that it alternates between two lines of Otun (Chiefs) and Balogun (warriors). It usually takes decades to groom an Olubadan for the stool through stages of chieftaincy promotion, thus meaning that just about any male born title-holder of the metropolitan center is a potential king.

Understanding the Reform

In the white paper released by the state government, the targeted Obas to be so enthroned are 32 but for the existing vacancies and the stiff resistance of one of the beneficiaries of the promotion, Senator Rashidi Ladoja, who tagged the exercise a diversionary act and Greek

Gift that would in the long run be set aside through the ongoing judicial efforts.

The latest show of the government was in tandem with what a Government House source tagged “ongoing consolidation efforts to complement the governor’s tripod agenda of his administration anchored on restoration, transformation and repositioning.” Ever since the exercise, the indigenes appear seriously divided with opinions for or against the unprecedented crowning of many Obas in a single day and without the consent of a supposedly approving authority as represented by the current Olubadan, Oba Saliu Adetunji Ajeogungunnuso I. Proponents of the elevation of the Olubadan of Ibadan to imperial status argued that since Ibadan is the most populous Yoruba city with 11 local government councils, the presence of more monarchs becomes inevitable “as it has sought state status for many years. Until today, it had only one Oba – a big disservice to the throne and people of Ibadan. The last Olubadan was conferred a CFR status.

At the conferment, he was accompanied by chiefs. Other Obas were accompanied by lesser Obas’ from their domain.

Abeokuta has 4 or more Obas. Ijebu has several. Ife has about 4. Iwo has about 4. The Awujale is the paramount ruler of Ijebu land. The Oluwo is the paramount ruler for Iwo land. The Alake is paramount for Abeokuta. The Ooni is paramount for Ife. These are smaller towns when compared to Ibadan with its cosmopolitan set-up. So, the Olubadan deserves to have lesser Obas under him. By this move, Ibadan has one Olubadan that becomes the Imperial majesty, 11 senior ranking Obas and another 11 Baales that now wear crowns.

“Not many opposed it – some from lack of understanding and many because they resist change. Change brings that. Culture is created daily. It is evolutionary by nature. Human beings are adaptive. Institutions that survive must be adaptive or go extinct. That’s common knowledge. A new dawn is here. We celebrate adaptation and response to the agitations of the Ibadan people over decades. We celebrate evolution,” said one of the supporters of the idea.

Between the late Olubadan and Ajimobi

A letter from the Oyo State Ministry of Local Govern-

ment and Chieftaincy Affairs had in 2015 told the Olubadan to wait for clearance from the government before High Chiefs could be promoted to their new ranks following the vacancies in the Olubadan-in-council due to death of a member. The late Oba Odulana ignored the said letter as he promoted his chiefs to new ranks.

While Balogun was elevated from the position of Osi Olubadan to Otun Olubadan to fill the vacant seat created by the death of High Chief Omowale Kuye, Ladoja was elevated from Ashipa Olubadan to Osi Olubadan. High Chief Saliu Adetunji was elevated from the position of Otun Balogun to Balogun of Ibadanland, filling the position left vacant following the death of High Chief Sulaiman Omiyale.

The ceremony was conducted despite an order by the state government directing that high chiefs jostling for the vacant stools of the Balogun and Otun Olubadan should submit their medical certificates of fitness before Oba Odulana could elevate them.

Seven other high chiefs also got elevated. They are High Chief Akinloye Olakulehin (Osi Balogun to Otun Balogun); High Chief Olufemi Olaifa (Ashipa Balogun to Osi Balogun); and High Chief Sir Eddy Oyewole (Ekerin Olubadan to Ashipa Olubadan).

According to a letter from the government signed by the Director of Chieftaincy Matters in the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Mr. Z. O Jayeola, which was addressed to the Head of the Ibadan South-east Local Government administration, on Thursday, December 31, 2015, the high chiefs were directed to submit a medical report certifying them fit for the positions in line with extant chieftaincy laws.

But Ladoja said “such directive was never part of the Ibadan system. I think we should just allow the sleeping dog to lie. It is the Olubadan who decides whom he wants to install as chief. It is the prerogative of the Olubadan, so I am not aware of any directive stopping the elevation. What I know is that I was invited by the Olubadan-in-Council for an elevation.”

Senator Balogun said, “I have been a chief since 1989.

For anybody to now say that my medical certificate is needed is strange. As far as I know, they said they want to reform Ibadan chieftaincy. Ibadan chieftaincy is self-reforming. The system you meet is a function of the town’s history. It has not become part of the requirement

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CICERO/ REPORT t 5)& /&8 *#"%"/ 0#"4 8)0 4 1-":*/( 10-*5*$4 t Continued on Pg. 70 and so it is not meant to be obeyed now.

The governor is proposing reformation, but it has not become law. If he says we should submit medical certificates, for what purpose would that be for a chief who has been in line for over 30 years?�

As Ibadan Indigenes React‌

Mogaji’s Role Threatened by Reform

The Mogaji, Chief Gboyega Adejumo, who appears sidelined along with over 1,000 others, has this to say, “I’m sure not a few already know of the present happenings in Ibadan at the moment regarding the issue of the elevation of some chiefs to obaship and the elevation of some Baales to be called and addressed as obas. But what many do not know is that there are many things wrong with this process as the very foundation of the uniqueness of the Ibadan Traditional Chieftaincy Tradition has been rocked and destabilised! “From time immemorial, an Arole’Badan, a Mogaji, is an Olubadan-inthe-making and the owner of the family land and property. The Mogaji is higher than a BaĂĄlĂŠ, and this is so because a BaĂĄlè can never become Olubadan.

When a BaĂĄlè is to be appointed, it is the Mogaji, who will nominate the person of his choice, with perhaps the input of the elders in the village to so appoint a BaĂĄlè. “Now a BaĂĄlè is to be an Oba over the Mogaji that appoints him? Koseleri! As Mogaji, I am forbidden to prostrate to anyone, save for the Olubadan, ditto for these high Chiefs turned Obas. So, I ask, what happens to the traditional greetings to the Olubadan by the High Chiefs who, by tradition must remove their hats, and prostrate fully to the Olubadan? How and where then will these Obas now do the traditional greetings to the Olubadan?

With their so-called crowns removed and then, they will stand to greet their monarch or what?�

Ajimobi Speaks‌

At the coronation, Ajimobi said, the state government followed due process in conducting the exercise and that all extant laws had been complied with and that the exercise was not encumbered by any legal impediment. He debunked insinuations being peddled by those he called political opponents to the effect that the promotion was targeted at whittling down the influence and authority of the Olubadan as the supreme monarch in Ibadanland. He said the initiative was borne out of a strong sense of patriotism and a resolve to elevate, uplift, transform and reposition the chieftaincy institution of Ibadanland.

He quoted a famous author, Henry James, who once said that “a tradition is kept alive only by something being added to it�. And to buttress his point, Ajimobi said, “This epoch making event in the annals of the history of Ibadanland is a practical demonstration of our administration’s commitment to the enhancement of dignity and honour of the chieftaincy institution in Ibadanland and Oyo State in general. “I wish to state categorically that we are not changing history; we are not changing tradition; we are not changing the culture of Ibadanland. Rather, we are elevating and consolidating our traditional institution and the exalted position of the Olubadan as the imperial majesty in Ibadanland. We are also elevating the Olubadan-in-Council and the chieftaincy institution without altering or tinkering with the traditional succession and ascendancy system of the Olubadan Chieftaincy structure.�

The governor explained that the review of the 1959 Olubadan chieftaincy declaration was not a novel idea, having been carried out by successive administrations in the state in 1974, 1981, 1993 and 2000.

According to him, Ladoja, who was opposed to the current exercise, also set up the Adio Commission to review the Olubadan Chieftaincy declaration, before jettisoning the commission’s recommendations. “Our administration is not reinventing

The Olubadan

the wheel. We have simply, like others before us, embarked on a review of the Olubadan Chieftaincy Declaration in response to the yearnings of wellmeaning stakeholders. These include the Ibadan Elders Council, Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII) and eminent sons and daughters of Ibadanland, such as Chief Theophilus Akinyele; the late Otun Olubadan, Chief Omowale Kuye; and all, but one member of the Olubadan-in-Council. “They all desired to elevate the traditional chieftaincy institution in Ibadanland and position it comparably and competitively amongst other ancient Yoruba cities that have embraced new and modern systems. They have been truly inspired by the words of Lidia Bastianich when she said ‘Today’s innovations are tomorrow’s tradition.�

The Views of a BeneďŹ ciary

Responding on behalf of the new obas, the Otun Olubadan, Oba Lekan Balogun, thanked the governor for acceding to what he called the clamour by respected Ibadan elders to review the Olubadan chieftaincy to be in sync with other Yoruba cities. He reaffirmed the supremacy of Olubadan, whom he said, remained the imperial majesty and father of all the citizens and obas in the land. “I’m happy to be part of history today.

This is an epoch-making event. We are proud of the governor. We are grateful to him. On behalf of all of us, I want to assure the governor that we will use our position to enhance the socio-economic development of Ibadanland and the entire state. “This promotion will put Ibadan in strong footing in the traditional institution of Yoruba land. With 33 obas, Ibadan can now renew its clamour for the creation of Ibadan state. This envisages the emergence of Ibadan State. I want to make it clear that the Olubadan, his imperial majesty, remains our father. It will be more heartwarming and prestigious when we follow him to events henceforth with our crowns.

The Growing Insinuation

Both Ajimobi and Oba Balogun appear to have been caught in the web of their own game as what is today trending clearly portrays them as having ulterior motives beyond what the people see on the surface.

For instance, a commentator quoted the governor at the crowning of the current Oba Adetunji to have said: “The beauty of the Olubadan institution makes it unique in the whole of Nigeria. It is the only institution where we know the next 20 or 50 kings. We don’t fight over it. Therefore we feel it is a rancour-free succession where everybody is qualified to be the king one day�.

This made people to wonder what had changed between January 2016 and August 2017 that would warrant the governor to tinker with a self-reforming process in the Ibadan tradition?

Same poser is now trending against Oba Balogun by another online political observer, who quoted the erstwhile vociferous Balogun querying the government’s move in this tone: “I called the governor to stop what he was doing but he did not pick my calls. We are very close but now this will divide us. Ibadan Chieftaincy System is self-reforming and does not require the government to do that. Before, old men were being enthroned as Mogajis but now most new Mogajis are either in their fifties or below. On the issue of literacy among the system, almost all the High Chiefs are graduates of no mean standard. It was not the government that did all these but the decision of the Olubadan-in-Council�.

In the last dispensation, former governor Adebayo Alao-Akala made attempts to tinker with the Ibadan traditional institutions for similar political conspiracy and these same people that constitute the then Olubadan-in-Council cried foul.

They resisted vehemently and defended the age long tested and trusted system that works. The Ogbomosho man (Akala) retracted, not knowing that it would take an Ibadan man ‘to disparage Ibadan preserved heritage,’ said another online commentator.

About 90 per cent of Ibadan indigenes, at home and in the Diaspora are in support of Sunday’s mass coronation of Ibadan High Chiefs and some Baales (Village heads) to their new-beaded crown wearing status by the governor, the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII) said on Tuesday.

At a press conference on the perceived misgivings over the crowning of the new Obas in the city, the CCII President General, Chief Yemi Soladoye, said there was history of chieftaincy reforms dating back to the 19th century in the city, noting that the flawless succession system in Ibadan was the result of several reviews.

According to Soladoye, high chiefs, who have been elevated to the position of kings in Ibadan have always been accorded the status of second class kings by the state government. He stated that the new kings had no domain, meaning that Ibadan land remains under the Olubadan authority. “The CCII wishes to confirm that the change that has just taken place was desired, initiated, supported, applauded and appreciated by the generality of Ibadan Indigenes worldwide. Constant changes and reviews are in fact the ingredients that have sustained our well-organised and rancor-free ascension to the throne of Olubadan of Ibadanland in almost 200 years of our existence. “During the time of Lagelu, our progenitor, up to the perishing of the second Ibadan, we were using various titles including Olubadan and since the emergence of this third Ibadan around 1820, tittles like Basorun, Balogun and Aare have been used to describe our leaders. Nobody has created any new ruling house (with the new system). “The former high chiefs can now physically carry the authority of the Olubadan for development in their communities and create flamboyancy around the Kabiyesi at public functions.

The new kings are not kings of anywhere as they are still on the queue to become Olubadan and the imperial power over the entire Ibadan land still resides with the Olubadan of Ibadan land.�

Soladoye explained that the baales that were elevated to king status were from satellite towns that were subdued by the Ibadan warriors many years ago, adding that it was not an attempt to divide Ibadan into several parts. “The fact of the case is that satellite towns like Ijaiye-Orile, Erunmu, Lalupon had in fact existed before the present Ibadan but having defeated them in wars, we demoted their kings and annexed them to Ibadan. The new arrangement is a manifestation of the usual magnanimity and hospitality of Ibadan people but they wear the coronet from the Olubadan and not their ancestral crowns in the new dispensation. Some of the crowns are also granted to protect our border towns,� noted the CCII boss.

Ladoja Goes for Broke

Ladoja has said the state government has shown beyond reasonable doubt that he was the prime target of the review of Olubadan Chieftaincy Declaration by asking him to either “join in the mockery of Obaship and agree to be made a government-appointed oba� or forfeit his right to the throne.

Ladoja, who spoke through his media aide, Alhaji Lanre Latinwo, said he remained the Osi Olubadan of Ibadanland and would neither agree to being a government-appointed oba with no domain, chiefs and subjects or “support attempt at desecrating the Olubadan throne.�

Latinwo, in the statement, said “thousands of Ajimobi can’t stop Ladoja from becoming the Olubadan if it is the will of God,� and advised the governor to stop playing God. (See concluding part on www.thisdaylive.com)

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CICERO/ANAMBRA GOVERNORSHIP ELECTION

Obiano

Obaze

Nwoye

Awka Govt House: How the Candidates Stand With the primary elections of all the contending parties over, David-Chyddy Eleke examines the respective candidates and how they stand as Anambra votes in a major governorship election this November

B

ookmakers have insisted that the November governorship election would be the most keenly contested in the history of the state. Of course, Anambra is rated among the most politically conscious states in the country, and to convince an electorate to part with his vote in the state, a candidate must do extra work.

Just as the saying goes that the taste of the pudding is in the eating, the primary elections of some of the most popular political parties in the state have given the signs of what the main election could be.

So far, only five out of the 33 political parties that would be participating in the election are known to be either popular enough among the people to win election, or are fielding candidates, who are popular or have the capacity to truly prosecute their election to the point of victory.

The parties and their candidates are: All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), with Chief Willie Obiano, the incumbent governor, as its candidate; All Progressives Congress (APC), has Hon. Tony Nwoye; Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is fielding Mr. Oseloka Obaze; Progressive Peoples Alliance (PPA) has on its platform, Chief Godwin Ezeemo, while the United Progressives Party (UPP) is to run with Chief Osita Chidoka.

Now, let’s look at the candidates and how they stand within the equation and how their strengths and weaknesses could do and undo their chances respectively.

Willie Obiano

The incumbent governor of Anambra State is in the race on the platform of APGA. He is among the few, who had a smooth sail to the governorship

tickets of their parties. Reasons being that his party considered him as having performed creditably in his first term to the extent that it announced it would not entertain anyone else vying against him for the ticket. It came to pass, and after it primary election in Awka, APGA announced Obiano as its candidate for the election.

The governor will have so many factors working in his favour in the election, and they include his performance, power of incumbency, the war chest to successfully prosecute the election among others.

Obiano is seen as having performed well in the close to four years that he has held sway as governor.

Some of his achievements include the provision of infrastructure as could be seen in the construction of roads in various parts of the state, his effort to beautify Awka and give it the deserved status of a state capital. His performance in various communities of the state, where he initiated the ‘choose your project initiative’, in which he empowers communities with N20million for them to name and build their own priority project may have also contributed to their love and support for him.

This may have been part of the reason he has received endorsement from several communities of the state, who have pledged their support for him. Association of leaders of the town unions have also held a ceremony to endorse him for his work in their communities, just as farmers had also done same in view of what they see as his massive support for the agricultural sector.

Obiano is reputed to have grown agriculture in the state to the level that the state today has reduced the importation of rice, with the growing popularity of Anambra Rice.

Today, Obiano is widely known among civil servants as the alert governor, reason being that

So far, only five out of the 33 political parties that would be participating in the election are known to be either popular enough among the people to win election, or are fielding candidates, who are popular or have the capacity to truly prosecute their election to the point of victory

since the commencement of his administration, he has constantly paid civil servants their salaries and most importantly, as early as 25th of every month.

Some have however argued that payment of salaries is no achievement as the governor is obligated to pay, but what is important to Obiano is that the civil servants to whom he has constantly fulfilled this obligation are appreciative of the gesture, knowing quite well that some governors owe backlog of salaries spanning several months in some states. It may be for this reason that the civil servants in the state recently endorsed him for a second term in office, pledging to mobilise support for him to win the election.

It could also be for some of these advantages that the leader of the APC in Anambra State, Dr. Chris Ngige, noted recently at a meeting of South east stakeholders of his party that winning an incumbent governor like Obiano may not be easy. He enjoined members of his party to work hard to ensure that peace and cooperation reigned in the party if it would achieve the dream of dislodging Obiano.

Obiano’s Anambra North root is another factor that would work for him, as elders of the party had months ago sat and agreed that power must remain in the northern zone of the state for it to complete her statutory two terms before moving to the southern zone. However, what may seem a problem to Obiano is his frosty relationship with the former governor of the state, Mr. Peter Obi, who was instrumental to his ascendancy to power and still very much loved by the people. There are also political baggage that go with incumbency factor, which include unmet expectations and political enemies created from political actions and government policies.

Tony Nwoye

He is widely regarded as a strong grassroots politician, and his calm and humble mien has endeared him to many people. Nwoye, a member of the House of Representatives, is the governorship candidate of the APC. He had in a surprise primary election beaten Senator Andy Uba, who is considered his godfather after bringing him to limelight through an appointment as the chairman of the PDP in the state. He is young, and known to have a strong connection with youths being a Student Union leader in his undergraduate days.

Nwoye hails from Anambra North, the zone

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CICERO/ANAMBRA GOVERNORSHIP ELECTION t‘AWKA GOVT HOUSE: HOW THE CANDIDATES STAND’… tContinued from Pg. 72 favoured for the governorship seat, and it is only good for the party that it went for Nwoye over Uba. But the election of Nwoye, who is just like Uba and some other politicians in the party seen as a new comer may not go down well with some of the staunch party members.

Just as Dr. Jim Nwobodo, the leader of the party in the South-east had advised in a congratulatory message to Nwoye that the aspirants should rally behind Nwoye to ensure the party attains victory; it may be disastrous for the party if the other aspirants decide to work against him.

It is more so, when Uba and other losers in the election have not made any statement showing their support for him. Uba, who made a press release pledging not to leave the party, also did not state any support for Nwoye.

Another factor that may possibly sell Nwoye is the belief that the federal might may come to play.

Most of the aspirants on the platform of the APC were hoping that the presidency would press the right button for the state to be delivered to APC, but this may not exactly work out.

Anambra electorate is among the most politically aware and is known to have resisted attempts by moneybags, security or thugs to rig elections. And, with a party like APC, it would be easy to start all over again to brand the party as a northern party, and discourage rural voters from voting it. So if APC will win Anambra, it has to do extra work to get the people to believe in it.

Oseloka Obaze

A diplomat, author, seasoned administrator and time tested technocrat hails from Ogbaru LGA in the northern part of the state. He served as Secretary to the State Government under Mr. Peter Obi. Obiano later inherited him from Obi, when the going was not so rough between the duo, until about a year of service and he bowed out.

His Anambra North root will help push his aspiration, just as his personality as a former United Nations official would too. He is known to be highly read, and also very cerebral, and has the backing of the former governor of the state, Obi, who is gradually assuming the position of a king maker in Anambra after defying all odds to install Obiano in the first tenure.

With Obi behind him, an Oseloka victory is possible, as Obi, having served the state for eight years and also still impacting it has a cult-like following in the state. He is also known for his political mastery of the state, and would most definitely deploy everything to win Obaze the election.

One factor that has remained doubtful is Obaze’s financial capacity to prosecute the election, but that may be waived as a source recently told THISDAY that PDP governors are bent on making a political statement, using the Anambra election as a subliminal message by rallying round the party’s candidate for the election.

Godwin Ezeemo

Most people in the state have adjudged Ezeemo as the best man for the Anambra governorship if Nigerian politics were the ideal one. Ezeemo, a philanthropist, farmer, publisher, enterprenuer and manufacturer is one of the biggest investors in the state. He prides himself as the only candidate, who has impacted the state most with his investment,

Ezeemo

Chidoka

which he brought back home from the UK, where he was based.

He hails from the Southern part of the state, and was the only aspirant for the governorship position, who challenged the zoning of the governorship seat to the North. His argument was that his zone has only had a shot at the governorship seat once, and that having been there before the northern zone, it was pertinent for the zone to take a second term before the North which had served one term in Obiano would be allowed to go for another.

Ezeemo who is vying on the platform of the PPA once told journalists that as much as people believe that he would make a good governor, but are concerned because his party is less-rated, noted that time was when people voted for party. Ezeemo said he was sure that the people of the state would vote for personality and not party, and that placed side by side with all the other candidates, he was sure to beat them as he has a proven track record of achievements outside office. Ezeemo is not known to be associated with any godfather, but vying on his own conviction, popularity, and financial strength.

clinched the party’s ticket over another aspirant, Hon Chudi Offodile, a former member of the House of Representatives.

Chidoka like Ezeemo is not also known to have any godfather, but told journalists recently that he was vying on the power of idea, having been convinced that there was need to move the state forward. His performance at FRSC and the ministry of Aviation has been applauded by many, and he recently stated that he was coming to change things for the better in the state.

He is from Anambra Central zone, and the zone is known to have produced the duo of Dr. Chris Ngige and Mr. Peter Obi as governors. This might likely work against his emergence, just as THISDAY gathered that the refusal of PDP to field a candidate from anywhere other than Anambra North was the reason he moved to the UPP. But Chidoka, while making remarks after his nomination to fly the ticket of the party said he has the solution to the constant agitation for a sovereign state, and that he would end such agitation with good governance.

His party gained popularity after a faction of IPOB through its political arm, Movement of Biafrans in Nigeria (MOBIN), supported it but Chidoka’s hope has further dimmed with the withdrawal of their support from the party in protest after what the group described as the rigging of the party’s primary.

Osita Chidoka

The young, suave, smart and debonair former Minister of Aviation, who is also a former Corp Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corp, is vying on the platform of United Progressives Party, UPP. Chidoka showed strength weeks back, when he

NOTES FOR FILE

ASUU as Abiku Abiku, according to Wikipedia, refers to the spirits of children that die before they reach puberty – a child, who dies before turning twelve years of age is called an Abiku as well as the spirit or spirits that caused the death.There are those also referred to Abiku agba, meaning, the older Abiku.These ones get past the puberty age but eventually die before they become aged.

However, for want of better description, the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) might have become some sorts of abiku in the educational sector of the country. With its tendency to down tool at the slightest provocation or least expected period.

As sad as it has become, the federal government and ASUU have become familiar foes over differing interests and for many years, often locked in battles over the implementation of agreements on the funding of public universities, remuneration packages and other entitlements.

Unfortunately, the consequences of the

strikes are often debilitating to the development of education in Nigeria.

Although a recent meeting between a federal government delegation and ASUU had resolved to look at the possibility of calling off the current strike, the time may have come for the federal government to have a rethink on issues that often spark disagreement with the universities with a view to remedying the situation. It is also important that ASUU too stops being an abiku and learn to reason with the federal government in the interest of the students and the future of education in the country.

While their request may be genuine, the nation’s tertiary institutions cannot be grounded on that account, because the students end up suffering the most through sheer waste of time and declining quality standard of learning.This is why rather than further damage the credibility of the Nigerian universities, ASUU and the federal government should work out a permanent solution to the recurring issues in the universities.

ASUU President, Ogunyemi, addressing the press

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CICERO/FOCUS

Portrait of a Change Agent With a recent award in London, the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Dr. Ibe Kachikwu, remains a consistent positive face of the Muhammadu Buhari administration, writes Olawale Olaleye

O

ften mistaken as arrogant and sometimes, dismissed as highly conceited, these are nothing but the mere impressions of those who have deliberately elected to see the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Dr. Ibe Kachikwu, in flawed light. There are times such misgivings are allowed to swirl, for there is nothing wrong for people to relish in their own follies once in a while. However, not all the time. In truth, impression is a reflection of the background make-up of the person holding it. Therefore, it is always not a correct reflection of the reality. The lenses of view too play a major role.

In reality, however, such misconceptions are merely the manifestations of the degree of confidence and competence that radiates around Kachikwu. He has been around for a while and this is telling in all of his being, particularly, his carriage.

No man combines his kind of academic and professional successes and does not boast the kind of self-esteem that registers his presence anywhere, anytime. He is self-made, more or less and from a humble background with stirring mien. He has presence. And because he is neither given to frivolity nor tawdry delivery of responsibility, Kachikwu has learnt to approach every facet of his life with as much seriousness.

He simply does not have the time to waste.

There is work to be done and as the serious type, he dedicates his time to only worthy causes.

A core professional with huge success made of his career with over 30 years of experience, Kachikwu’s efforts were accorded recognition last week, when The Nigerian News, a London-based online media awarded him the 2017 Minister of the Year, in recognition of his record-breaking contributions to “transparency, accountability, probity, profitability and integrity in the management of one of Nigeria’s most critical sectors, the oil and gas.

Kachikwu clinched the award ahead of three other nominees in the category to hit the mark of first, his usual trademark in academics and decades of working in a sector that is arguably the nation’s mainstay.

It was not surprising therefore that when he gave his really short speech, he could only dedicate the award to President Muhammadu Buhari, who at the time was in London and incidentally, the award held two days before the president returned home after 103 days in London. Clearly, it was an honour well-deserved for the president and the minister.

Born in December 1956, Kachikwu, who hails from Onicha Ugbo in Delta State, was first appointed the Group Managing Director of the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) by President Buhari on August 4, 2015, later combined it with his ministerial posting before the two offices were severed by the president. And since he faced his job solely as petroleum minister, Kachikwu has not only brought innovations and panache to the ministry, he has ensured efficiency, transparency and accountability in the various parastatals under him.

His idea of the ‘7 Big Wins’, designed to grow the Nigerian Oil & Gas industry is one of the most ingenious conceptions to the administration of the all-important sector.

The seven big wins, Kachikwu had mooted to help develop stable and enabling oil and gas landscape with improved transparency, efficiency, stable investment climate, and a well-protected environment.

Let’s take a run through the seven big wins: the Niger Delta and security, policy and regulation, business environment and investment drive, transparency and

Kachikwu receiving his award in London efficiency, stakeholder management and international coordination, gas revolution as well as refineries and local capacity. And when combined with the ongoing reform in the sector, it is generally believed to present a new dawn for Africa, because it is projected to provide huge investment opportunities in infrastructure development, oil and gas facilities, operations, and maintenance across the oil and gas value chain.

This initiative, Kachikwu reckoned, requires innovative thinking, new ideas, technology and partnership amongst various stakeholders. This is because such partnerships, he held, would enable the country improve her oil and gas production from the new, mature, and marginal fields, explore the frontier basins and improve the local refining capacity. He also projected that the country would leverage her liberalised downstream environment to attract investment into high value portfolio of products distribution and storage assets network.

“We will also unveil a set of enabling policies and regulations that will jumpstart our gas industry through the establishment of robust infrastructure, gas-based industries – petrochemicals plants, fertiliser, methanol and LPG/ CNG programs,” he said as he ushered the country into an exciting journey of growing the energy resource base across the full value chain.

Sadly, in all of these, the minister has had to contend with attempts to blacklist him over unfounded allegations of corruption on the one hand whilst being dragged into the murky waters of politics on the other hand, thus creating an entirely different perception around him.

First, Kachikwu’s posters flooded different parts of Abuja as if a prospective governorship hopeful in Delta State in 2019. To think that this was not the first time the issue of Kachikwu’s governorship was being touted showed consistency on the part of those behind the attacks with the inclusion of his campaign posters as the latest slant to the destructive campaigns being slung at him and this, of course, has raised high wire political undertone, which may be geared towards distracting the minister, without an iota of doubts.

Soon after this, unfounded stories started flying around about President Buhari’s determination to drop him over some imaginary misdemeanors, including but not limited to a certain N3.8billion fraud, which they added was being routed through one of his brothers, Dumebi Kachikwu.

Expectedly, Kachikwu’s media office had immediately dismissed all these as groundless. And to cap it, a group, The Conscience of the Niger, through its leader, Mitai Okeroghene, had also denied the many allegations and exposed why “some power hawks and mischief makers” were poised to see that the minister was shown the way out.

It was later contended that the attacks might not be unconnected to the purported cabinet reshuffle as efforts were said to being fervently made to not only stop Kachikwu from being made the substantive oil minister but dropped completely from the cabinet.

Coming at a time that the fight against corruption is the only thing this government seems to have going for it, what is happening to the oil minister is clearly a function of

corruption fervently fighting back.

This is because it is easy to analyse. One, the marginal fields have not been awarded yet. Therefore, the allegation of N3.8 billion does not arise. And if there was going to be any, it would be through the NNPC or DPR. In other words, the minister has no such platform and part of the changes in the system geared towards transparency is that Kachikwu has made these parastatals independent.

A successful technocrat by all standards, Kachikwu came into the Buhari government with a lot of credibility and track record. And if anything, he has shown to have earned his record and not one dumped on him by chance and or time, which is evident in his handling of the affairs of the oil sector despite its legion of problems.

It is for this reason and more that the conspiracy to bring down such a man is seen as not just wicked and evil but also clearly unpatriotic. And thus, it is expected that if anyone truly has anything against Kachikwu in terms of corruption, it is incumbent on them to approach the relevant agencies with the facts, after all, whistleblowers are now well-protected under the law.

For these reasons and more, if a list of Nigerians, who have risen to the pinnacle of their careers and attained successes through commitment and dint of hard work without soiling their hands in one way or the other were to be written, Kachikwu would evidently stand out from the crowd and he carries on without having to grandstand about his self-effacing mien. Say what you may, he remains one guy who knows his job and does it well.

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Oshinowo: APC May Lose Ogun Governorship If… A former Senior Special Assistant on Political Matters to ex-President Olusegun Obasanjo, Dr. Gbolade Oshinowo, in this interview with Femi Ogbonnikan, spoke on some of the trending political developments in Ogun State. Excerpts:

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hat is 2019 Ijebu Agenda all about?

Well, I don’t want to call it, ‘Ijebu Agenda’ because the term, Agenda connotes some sinister motives. But I think I know what you are talking about, because you would not be the first person to mention it to me. What has happened in the context of the 2019 is that, as you know, elections are due in 2019 but people are jockeying for who would take the position. Ordinarily, as an older politician, I would just wait and allow things to sort themselves out.

But I have found that I have been drawn into the fray by certain misconceptions, which are prevalent, largely, serialising around the view that it is the turn of the Yewa people to produce a governor. And some of our most respected politicians have trumpeted this position that the Yewas have never been governor in the 40 years of Ogun State’s existence and therefore, they should be given first consideration. I have nothing against that, but while I was taken aback was may be, the corollary, and are therefore, the Ijebu should not be allowed to participate and this was becoming an official position of the APC. I was alarm-faced because, as a leader of the APC in this senatorial district in Ogun East, it has given an unnecessary advantage to the PDP, our opponent. If you look at the results of the last circle of elections around here, the PDP had an upper hand.

They won the senatorial ticket. They won more of the House of Representatives offices and more of the States House of Assembly seats. So, already we are at a disadvantage. If two years to the next elections, you are now saying that, Ijebus can’t aspire to be governor and the PDP said they have zoned it to Ogun East, and this, we as leaders of the APC, our positions are untenable in Ogun East and I thought.

You cannot play politics like that, because it would put us at a disadvantage.

And therefore, we wanted to find a way of asking the party leadership to moderate its position. Secondly, when I looked at the history of Ogun State and the evolution of the power dynamics in Ogun State, I found out, on a vantage position, that we have been very active participants since 1976, when the state was created. And the burden of history is staring all of us in the face. Ogun State is a creation of modern governance apparatus.

Does Ijebu Agenda really exist?

Well, I don’t know. Perception, they say, is reality. So, if you are talking about it, and people are talking about it, well, may be, you can see there is a phenomenon of which we used to call ‘Ijebu Agenda’. For me, what I see is a movement to try and prevent marginalisation of the Ijebus.

Are you worried that if care is not taken, APC might lose the 2019 governorship on account of not zoning to Ogun East?

I didn’t put it the way you have put it. What I am saying is that, Ogun East is already a stronghold of the PDP. Most of us in APC are in a battle ground situation here. And now, to alienate the Ijebus further by zoning the governorship out of their area, by not allowing them to participate makes the position of the leaders of APC in Ogun East very difficult, virtually untenable.

Recently, some Ijebu leaders sought audience with Governor Ibikunle Amosun to enable him have a rethink

would emerge. We have seen people who have shown the ambition to serve. We need people, who we feel are very qualified and who we want to draft into the race, whether they want to serve or not.

Oshinowo

over the blanket ban placed on Ogun East producing governorship aspirants, come 2019. Were you part of the delegation?

Yes! I was part of the delegation?

What was the outcome of the parley?

Well, I think, it was a privileged meeting with the governor. We expressed our views. It was a very fine discussion of exchanges on both sides. And the dialogue, I believe is continuing.

You are insisting that the governorship ticket should not be zoned to Ogun West and rather, the Ogun East should also be allowed to join the fray.

Are you taking it from the angle of the old dichotomy of the defunct divisions and whereas the country is operating 1999 constitution which recognises three senatorial districts per state? Isn’t unfair to now want to look at the next Ogun State governorship contest from the old four divisions?

You see, to say, that the old divisional arrangement has become obsolete is not true. In the traditional rulers’ council, the leadership is still rotated on a divisional basis. Have you ever heard what is used to call Remo, Ijebu, Yewa and Egba (RIYE)? It is done on that divisional basis.

But RIYE is not in the 1999 Constitution and instead, we have three senatorial districts per state?

What we are talking about is politics.

Politics has to do with core values of the people. The 1999 Constitution is terribly flawed and that is why everybody is up in hands now, saying it has to be amended. It has to be restructured. Now, a constitution is an arrangement by people that would guide them. It is not written in stone. It is something, that is a work-in-progress, and that is why we have constitutional amendments. What I am saying is that, at least, we, the Ijebus, have been in existence before Nigeria. We have been in existence before any of the constitutions.

Nigeria has experimented about 10 or 11

constitutions now. We would continue to be in existence. And what we call the 1999 constitution is a transient arrangement.

But even since 1999, certain things that are not in the constitution have remained and have become very, very important to the people.

Who is to blame for the problem of the Yewa people not to have produced a governor?

Okay, let us examine the fact. Four divisions, three have had it. On the fourth occasion, where the fourth would have had it, what happened? It was not the main beneficiary of the deprivation of the Yewas, it was not the Ijebus. And if that thing continues, may God help us, because the slogan has always been, Yewa l’okan, Egba l’oma se, (meaning it is the turn of the Yewa people but the Egbas would walk their way through to government).

And we have been looking, what is the meaning of this? And to our surprise, it happened. And when we examined the minutes, the details of what happened, how did the two Yewa candidates emerge in 2011? Did it tally? Did it bear scrutiny?

If you look at it closely, you could draw your inferences.

Have you had governorship aspirants of Ogun East extraction emerging, ahead of the 2019 contest?

Are you talking from the PDP point of view or APC? APC… Yes! But in the APC situation, it is difficult because of this so-called ban on aspirants from Ogun East district, because when a governor says, no Ogun East candidate must come out and you know, the governor is the leader of the party.

And that must act as a disincentive to such aspiration. So, one of the requests we placed before his Excellency is, let the powers-that-be, let the leadership of the party, maintain a level-playing field.

Let them give effects to the constitutional rights of every member to participate.

As far as the ban is lifted today, aspirants

Recently, Chief Olusegun Osoba, a leader of the APC, about a week ago said the APC has not zoned the governorship seat to any district. Isn’t this a leeway or a relief for aspirants from other districts to now come out and slug it out during the contest?

Chief Osoba’s statement gives a lot of comfort to us in Ogun East, but is that an official position? Yes, I am happy that he said so. The state chairman and the National Treasurer, I think, Alhaji Tajudeen Bello, visited Ijebu last week and he also said something like that, but what we are asking, is this official? Because Chief Osoba, even if he is the governor, we can take it to the bank but now, he is a leader of the party. And I have read the counter statement from the official side that “is Osoba still in APC? Has he not gone to SDP? Has he come back”?

Politics can be murky and we know ourselves, and we know Nigerians. So, if that is the official position, then, I welcome it. I am also told that, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, who I have the greatest respect for also said that, while he supports Ogun West candidacy, and he has told the governor that Ogun East can’t be disqualified from contesting the governor. Yes, if he said so, very good and that is the kind of things that we expect from leaders to say.

But what is the official position? The governor has stated it, and I was an eyewitness to it on two different occasions.

On one occasion, he did say that, though he would not support Ogun East but they are free to run. But in another occasion, he moderated that and said their candidates should not be allowed by the party leadership, and that has created a lot of anxiety in the minds of the ranks and file of the APC leadership in Ogun East. But we have been very loyal to him, as the leader of the party.

Why is the PDP seemingly strong in Ogun East?

I am happy that you asked this question, because this is a question that has often agitated my mind. And I think, the reason is because the average Ijebu and I will include Remo, doesn’t feel that the APC is really a party for him. There is a great disaffection in this area with the APC. And the reason is because our people tend to see that the APC favours the former Abeokuta Province, to the detriment of the former Ijebu Province, in terms of patronage, in terms of appointments, in terms of the age-old practices, that created equity and justice.

After all, politics should be authoritative resources of allocation of ‘where and how’. But when you look at the practices in Ogun State, in the past, things used to be shared along divisional lines. If the governor came from one part, the state chairman should come from another part, the speaker should come from another part, the Secretary to the State Government should come from another part.

But see, what is happening today, everything seems to be gravitating towards the former Abeokuta Province, and that leads to a feeling of marginalisation, the feeling of alienation, the feeling of disempowerment. And because of that, people do not feel any incentives to embrace APC or vote for its candidates, and that is why, we, the leaders of APC in Ogun East are constrained to draw the attention of the leadership of the party to this, that you are increasingly losing support in Ogun East.

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Ogbeha: Bello is a Disaster in Kogi Former military governor of Akwa Ibom and old Bendel State and a senator in the fifth National Assembly from Kogi State, Brigadier General Tunde Ogbeha (rtd) , sees the current state of affairs in the country as degenerating in terms of the level of corruption and poor leadership. In this interview with Onyebuchi Ezigbo, Ogbeha, who turned 70 years last Friday, bared his mind on several burning national and state issues. Excerpts:

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t 70, what are your reflections, especially the time spent serving your fatherland?

For me to attain the age of 70 is a privilege and I want to thank God for this privilege, because the bible says ‘three scores plus ten’ and by the grace of God, I reached this age on Friday. By and large, it has been a wonderful period. I grew up in a middle class family. My parents were not rich and they were not poor.

They were able to pay through I and my sibling’s education. They were able to maintain us. We were satisfied, we were happy and I would say we grew up in a very friendly, happy and satisfying environment.

Having laid down that foundation, I picked it up going to the Nigerian military school in a very interesting circumstance, because military school was not the choice of my parents. They wanted me to go to Saint Paul’s College in Zaria, which I passed, to continue the tradition of attending Christianbased school.

All the primary schools I went to were all Anglican primary schools in Kaduna, Kano, Jos and Maiduguri.

Those were the cities I had my primary education but in looking for adventure I ventured into the Nigerian Military school, without the knowledge of my parents and when they got to know, they accepted it after some bitterness and that was how my career started.

In military school, it was a successful outing. I had my school certificate and from there I got admission along with my colleagues into Nigerian Defence Academy. Incidentally, on the 3rd of September 1967, which means after celebrating my 20th birthday, I had the privilege of gaining admission into the Nigerian Defence Academy and it was like a birthday gift. We went through the rudiments of training, graduated as a Second Lieutenant and in my career, I think I have had it good, because I worked hard for it and worked hard to excel. I worked hard to merit all positions, appointments and promotions that I had.

Did you participate in the Civil war?

No, I didn’t because we graduated on 15th of March 1970, the Civil war ended January 1970 but we had the task of restoring peace and trying to implement the three ‘Rs’ of General Yakubu Gowon; rehabilitation, reconstruction and resettlement and it was as tedious as the civil war, trying to reabsorb those who fought against their fatherland.

In that case, would you say that the policy of reuniting the country

Ogbeha...as a military governor, I got N5,000 as security vote giving people a sense of belonging. achieved its objective during the Like in Akwa Ibom State, the euphoria military regime? of state creation and the need for the I think to a very large extent it did. state to move forward was very fresh Don’t forget that at the end of the war, in the minds of Akwa Ibom citizens General Yakubu Gowon declared that to the extent that the happiness of ‘there is no victor, no vanquished’ and trying to move the state forward was things were done in a way to re-absorb there and that indeed moved the state those, who broke away and that was forward. In Bendel State, it was the done peacefully and the integration issue of trying to restore, rehabilitate was very successful and there was not old infrastructure, because Bendel much friction in integrating those who State as you know was one of the old went away. states and it was a different challenge but these challenges we addressed What is it that you can say patriotically in the best interest of the worked well under the military, individual states. which you were part of as governor in two states and which in the presWhen you the military era to the ent democratic experience appears civilian government, there appears to be a challenge? to be more corruption during the By the grace of God, I had the former, because the checks and opportunity of being governor of balances in a democratic setting Old Bendel and Akwa Ibom States. I were absent during the military had the privilege of establishing their era, do you agree? administration. It was challenging I don’t agree with you that there in the sense that there was less of was more corruption in the military politicking, more of developing and than there is now. In the military, we had the strictest standard possible to observe. As a military governor in the two states I presided over, my security votes wasn’t more than N5000 but today security votes run into billions unaccounted for. Even the N5000 that we were entitled to, we render account to the general headquarters.

So, I will not agree with you that corruption was more during the military and I think as Nigeria grew and progressed, the scale of corruption grew with it. That is the way I see it, because you can’t ascribe the level of corruption that exists now to what was happening in the first republic or the military era.

It is a disastrous state of affairs and we have to contend with that situation probably in the next two years, because two years have passed already and the people of Kogi State have to take a decision on what they want but in this dispensation, I would say this has been the worst government or administration that Kogi State has ever had

So, what brought about the growth in corruption?

I think we now have or are having leaders, who are greedy, self-centred, not committed to the progress and development of the country and as such a lot of efforts were going into corruption. What should be used to the benefit of the people are being used by individuals who are more in minority and the scale of corruption keep rising as the years go by and I believe that we are not having committed leadership, who have the interest of the nation and the people at heart, because if we have that, the rate of corruption will be less or non-existent.

But as it is now, everybody dwells in corruption practices, because most Nigerians are looking for the fast track approach. The concept of hard work with results doesn’t really appeal, people are looking for fast track, where they do less work and get more money.

Rather than working hard and reaping the benefits, people want to reap, where they did not sow and that is the culture that operates now. You find young men leaving universities and schools thinking of millions and billions even before they start the first job and that was not the attitude.

You rose to become a military governor during the military era and afterwards during the civilian era, you contested and won an election to become a senator. Would you like to be called a converted democrat like some of your colleagues?

Well, if you want to call me a converted democrat, fine. But I want to tell you something that within the military, there is real democracy. The

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CICERO/INTERVIEW t A0(#&)" :")":" #&--0 *4 " %*4"45&3 */ ,0(* t Continued on Pg.76 there is a provision for you to amend such provisions and I think over the years, each National Assembly as it comes tried to tinker with the constitution and that is where we are today.

difference is that the military with its own democratic ideals also recognises a common structure. A Commander can’t take a decision without asking his subordinates to contribute to that decision, then, at the end of the day, the decision becomes yours.

So, it is democratic in the sense that you seek advice before a decision is taken. You ask people and try to do things that will improve the welfare of your troops, so, there is that element of democracy in the military and that is why, it is not too difficult to convert to a democrat. It was easy and I think we excelled ourselves – the military men who joined politics.

Some have also faulted this argument for resorting to the National Assembly for the purposes of amending the constitution. They reckon that previous attempt to tinker with the constitution has met with stiff opposition from some parts of the country that is dominant in the National Assembly by virtue of the old constitution hence they want to stick to the status quo?

So is that a reason to go outside the National Assembly or to go outside the constitution to amend? That is why I am telling that you if you want to take the Venezuela experience, where you have a National Assembly and the president on his own organised another constituent assembly to come up with a new constitution, is that what you want? Obviously, it will be chaotic. The people voted in members of the National Assembly according to the constitution, you must allow them to play the role the constitution has assigned them. You can’t sit outside the constitution and say this must happen.

It would be illegal for anybody and any government to say ‘we have a referendum, do you want this constitution or not?’ We don’t have that provision in our constitution and my considered opinion is that whatever restructuring that we want in Nigeria must be done within the constitutional provision.

You were in the military during the June 12 saga. Why do you think that election was annulled?

I wouldn’t know because I wasn’t a participant in aborting the June 12.

I was an officer and I wasn’t in the decision-making body but those who aborted the June 12 knew why they did it and I think the June 12 issue has been addressed many time by those actors, who were very active in that exercise.

Now, Nigeria is almost at a crossroads in terms of the unity of the country. A lot of issues have arisen, one of which is that some want out while others are serving their countrymen quit notice. What is your position in all these?

It is sad that these agitations are taking place to the extent that it will appear as if the separation is going to be very forceful. It is unfortunate because after the civil war, one thought that this country will never see another civil war. We may not survive another civil war. God forbid! But it is unfortunate that agitations are coming from all corners of the nation. Other than dwelling on the issues that unite us, we are dwelling on the issues that divide us. Ojukwu said after the war that he was proud to lead the Biafrans but as it stands at the time he was giving that interview that he would never support another agitation for Biafra.

I think it was a very genuine conclusion that he made and I think there are so many things that unite us that we are not exploring rather we are exploring those things that divide us.

I, on a personal note, will like to see a united Nigeria because there are too many things to gain from each other.

I am not sure a divided Nigeria will be successful. A divided Nigeria will be worse than Somalia. A divided Nigeria will be worse than Libya today.

A divided Nigeria will be worse than South Sudan.

So, I think we have every reason to remain one and work on those things that divide us and how do we work on those things? We must find the causes of these agitations and our leaders should address these causes. The political leadership must address those issues that divide us zone by zone, region by region and try because you can’t satisfy everybody but as much as possible ensure that justice, equity, fairness are displayed on all sides and work on those issues that divide us.

Aside those clamouring for separation, there are some of the politicians from both sides of the divide, who feel that something, a kind of compromise in the form of restructuring is the answer to reuniting the country. Do you think Nigeria really desires restructuring?

Personally I don’t know what they mean by restructuring; I don’t understand.

Some are talking about restructuring the affairs of government, economy, devolution of power, and so on?

Yes I know. I said I don’t understand

Ogbeha what restructuring they mean. If restructuring is bringing food to the table of Nigerians, yes. If restructuring gives a sense of belonging to everyone in Nigeria, yes. If restructuring is fair and equitable to all sides and parts of Nigeria, yes. But outside that, I think some people – some political gladiators are grandstanding with the issue of restructuring. I personally don’t think we need restructuring.

I think what we need is to ensure that we are fair to all, justice to all, that nobody is above the law and nobody is in a privileged position than the other.

That is what I would say of my understanding of restructuring but I think some of these agitators for restructuring don’t even understand what they want or what restructuring means.

You can see that some people are holding conferences or workshop to come out with what they understand by restructuring and Nigerians can’t agree on restructuring. But for me, if restructuring will bring food to Nigerians on the table, will enhance the economy, will be justice and fairness to everyone, then, fine. We can go on that but restructuring the way they are agitating is not that. Some people want more power than the others and I don’t think that should be the political structure that should be encouraged.

What would you say is the way out under the circumstance?

We have a constitution and we have been operating that constitution. If the operators have found out that there are some aspects of that constitution that require amendment, that should done and I think the National Assembly has been doing it. I think that job should be left to the National Assembly. Our constitution doesn’t require referendum.

Some people are calling for referendum

– on what? It is unconstitutional. So if there is any restructuring that should be done, it must be done within the existing constitution.

If you don’t want the present constitution, then, bring about another constitution. Do you want to go the way of Venezuela? Elect another body to come and write a new constitution while the National Assembly is sitting down there? You are calling for chaos and I think if the National Assembly is calling for constitutional amendment, the people have the right to make their views available and as far as I am concerned, they have been holding public meetings and public hearings to effect whatever changes they feel is necessary in Nigeria. I am of the view that any restructuring must be done within the constitution we operate today.

Some people have actually taken a swipe at the military for foisting what they call the ‘unacceptable constitution’ on the people. Do you think they are right?

Well, you may say so but the point is that we had a constitution. There was a constituent assembly and Nigeria has been operating this constitution since 1999 till date and it is when this agitation started that people are thinking that something is wrong with the constitution. For me, I don’t think anything is wrong with the constitution. It is the operators that are wrong.

This constitution we can operate it in a way and manner that it will be fair to all but the people operating it are not fair. So, saying that the military imposed this constitution, okay, let us agree that the military imposed it but the military also provided for amendment of those constitutions. So, if you look at the areas you think are not in line with what the Nigerians want,

Your state, Kogi, has witnessed some turbulence since this dispensation politically. What do you think is wrong in with the state?

I want to believe that Kogi State is plagued with unstable leadership.

Without trying to announce or praise myself, I was one of those who played a central role in the creation of Kogi State and one feels very disappointed and aggrieved over what is happening in Kogi State. What is happening in Kogi State is that of very bad leadership – a leadership that doesn’t take into account the welfare of the people; a leadership that is not compassionate; a leadership that has no vision – that is what we have now.

It is a disastrous state of affairs and we have to contend with that situation probably in the next two years, because two years have passed already and the people of Kogi State have to take a decision on what they want but in this dispensation, I would say this has been the worst government or administration that Kogi State has ever had.

You are a top member of the PDP and the party has also had a fair share of its crisis since this dispensation and people’s view is that the party is on the way to recovery. Do you share the view that PDP will come back to power in 2019?

Very much I do, because I think PDP has realised those pitfalls that made it to lose election and as long as we block those pitfalls, I am sure that we will bounce back. Specifically, I am talking about the level of impunity that was brought into PDP. The level of injustice and of course, PDP took its success for granted and took many people also for granted and if we have realised that situation and we make amends, we don’t impose people, we don’t force people into position.

APC has spent two years in power. Do you think APC also has made signiďŹ cant strides to warrant their retention of power in 2019?

The people are still waiting for the promises. We still have about two years to go and the people will decide whether those promises have been met or not.

78

T H I S D AY, T H E S U N D AY N E W S PA P E R ˾ PTEMBER 3, 2017

PERSPECTIVE

Constitution Amendment: A Balanced Appraisal Chijioke Nwachukwu

T

he Constitution, also known as the grundnorm, is the most important law of any land. It is also an embodiment of every nation’s history.

However, midwifed by the military, it is not surprising that the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999, on which the current democratic dispensation stands, has faced various criticisms and discontent among the citizens since coming into force. While many believe there was never a time the citizens came together to enact the 1999 Constitution, many more pick holes with so many things they feel it provided for or failed to provide for.

Nevertheless, the truth is that no constitution is ever perfect or cast in stone, hence the provisions for their amendment. For instance, the Constitution of the United States of America, the oldest constitution in the world has undergone 27 Amendments.

Likewise, the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria has undergone First, Second, and Third Alterations all achieved by the 6th National Assembly.

It was, therefore, not surprising when the current National Assembly responded to contemporary challenges and yearnings of the citizens again by embarking on a further amendment to the Constitution to deepen the nation’s democracy and strengthen good governance and address the concerns of the citizens regarding the document.

This effort recently crossed a major landmark when the two Chambers of the National Assembly voted on the 33 Constitution Amendment Bills proposed by the Constitution Amendment Committee led by the Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Ike Ekweremadu.

While the lawmakers, in their wisdom, rejected certain proposed amendments such as the devolution of more power to the federating units, removal of the Land Use Act from the Constitution, and reservation of at least 35 per cent of appointive federal and state cabinet positions for the women, among others, many key amendments were, however, approved for onward transmission to the State Houses of Assembly. Only proposed amendments that receive the approval of a simple majority of at least 24 State Assemblies will eventually be sent to the President for assent.

However, whereas so many proposed amendments that will reform governance at all levels, strengthen some institutions of democracy, and improve the electoral process were all passed by the National Assembly, they appear to be overshadowed by the media hype over the few that were not passed by the lawmakers.

Notable amendments that deserve commendation include those that seek to reform and improve governance at the grassroots by amending Section 7 of the Constitution to properly reposition the local governments as a third tier of government. If

Ekweremadu, Chairman National Asssembly Constitution Review Committee the State Assemblies and the President approve the amendments, the Joint State-Local Government Account, which many see as a drain on the resources for rural development, will be abolished to enable the Councils to receive their funds directly from the Federation Account. Local Government Councils will also enjoy a uniform three-year tenure, while only democratically elected Councils will be entitled to allocations from the Federation Account and contributions by the State.

Also worthy of note are the approval of financial autonomy for the State Houses of Assembly. This will promote good governance in the States, as the lawmakers will be better strengthened to hold the executive accountable and carry out other roles expected of them without fear or favour.

Furthermore, the National Assembly approved the reduction of the period within which the President or Governor can authorise expenditure based on the budget of the previous fiscal year from six months to three months. This will encourage early submission of budget as well as probity and accountability.

Again, the apex legislative body approved a 30-day maximum timeframe within which the President or governor must assent to a bill passed by the legislature or indicate refusal of assent, failing which the bill automatically becomes an Act of

parliament. In the US, the President only has seven days grace.

Others are a maximum 30-day timeframe for the President or Governor to submit ministerial and commissioner nominees, respectively, from the date of his or her inauguration. Also unlike a situation where the legislators embark on blind screening, such nominations will also be accompanied by the respective intended portfolio of each nominee. That way, their capacity to deliver on their mandates will be better assessed by parliament.

The National Assembly also commendably approved the proposals seeking to grant financial autonomy to the Auditor-General of the Federation as well as establishment of the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federal Government different from the Accountant-General of the Federation. This is to promote transparency and accountability and boost the war against graft.

In line with contemporary realities, it further approved the proposal to reduce the age qualification for various political offices by amending Sections 65, 106, 131, and 177 of the Constitution.

For example, while the lawmakers reduced the age requirement for the presidency and Senate to 35 years, that of the House of Representatives was reduced to 25. It also approved independent candidacy, timeframe for determination of pre-election matters, and amended Section 134 and 179 of the Constitution to provide sufficient time for INEC to conduct bye-elections.

It is against this backdrop that the expressions of disappointment over the failed proposed amendments, though understandable, especially coming at a time the call for restructuring of the country to enthrone true federalism is loudest, should not be allowed to drown these laudable amendments as passed by the National Assembly. It must not be forgotten that even if we devolve more powers to the States without strengthening critical institutions of democracy and reengineering the way government business is run at all levels, the nation will still not make the expected progress.

Likewise, unless the nation gets the local governments right as the current constitutional amendments seek to do, the pace of national development will still be appallingly slow, with majority of Nigerians, who dwell in the rural areas, alienated from governance and denied the dividends of democracy.

Good enough, the presiding officers of the National Assembly have also promised that the parliament would revisit the failed amendments as well as build greater consensus around them.

This is why the nation must rally round the National Assembly and lead the advocacies to ensure that the State Assemblies and the presidency work in national interest and give their blessings to the amendments so far passed by the apex legislature.

Nigerians expects the State Assemblies and the Presidency to bear in mind that, while no position lasts forever, the future wellbeing and good governance of Nigeria will depend on the choices they make or fail to make today.

--Arc. Nwachukwu writes from Enugu

Ogun and the World Bank Soyombo Opeyemi

T

he World Bank does not give free money. It puts its money where its mouth is. It does not do business with just any government. A government has to demonstrate capacity for results before it can gain the attention of the global institution for any financial transaction. The World Bank budget support facility is not an all comers’ affair. It is for governments that have a track record of investing in development. You have to prove your mettle in policy and institutional reform, revenue generation and the like to draw such interest.

The phenomenal growth of Ogun State’s Internally Generated Revenue as a result of financial engineering introduced by the current government would, no doubt, have impressed the global financial institution.

In its Doing Business in Nigeria 2014 report, the Word Bank, rated Ogun, out of 35 states and FCT, as one of the five states “that made the biggest strides towards the national frontier of good practices.” It put Ogun in the exclusive club of the top reforming states in Nigeria.

The same World Bank, in 2008 and 2010 reports, ranked Ogun State as one of the lowest overall performers among the 36 states in Nigeria in terms of ease of doing business. In other words, the state was then not conducive to business investment.

“Thanks to a concerted effort across federal and state authorities, and in collaboration with the private sector, Ogun improved on three of the four Doing Business indicators benchmarked,” the 2014 World Bank report said.

It observed further that in Ogun State, “The

construction permitting system was radically overhauled, with the state government authorities decentralising the approval system and a new committee monitoring delays. Building permit applications and payments can now be made simultaneously in district offices. Private professionals issue environmental-impact assessments in accordance with the conditions and templates set out in a framework agreement. The certificate of completion is issued on the spot, immediately following the final inspection.”

To begin a business in the current Ogun State, according to the World Bank, “entrepreneurs no longer need to travel to Ibadan or Lagos, thanks to the Federal Inland Revenue Service’s new stamp duty office in Abeokuta.

In addition, the state Ministry of Commerce and Industry abolished the requirement for a physical inspection of the business premises – today, a proof of company address, such as a utility bill, is sufficient.

“A business premises permit is issued on the spot upon payment of the fee. Finally, Ogun’s Bureau of Lands digitalised property records with the aim of enabling electronic title searches and making property registration more efficient.”

It is worth recalling that before the global development institution released its report, the Management and Board of Editors of Nigeria’s leading business newspaper, Business Day, had in 2013 declared Ogun State the fastest-growing economy and first choice for industrialists and entrepreneurs among the 36 states in Nigeria. The state won the prestigious award “because it has the highest number of businesses established in its domain and that the government has made the environment more attractive to investors. Ogun also has the highest positive number of Gross Domestic

Product in the last one year, the number of bank branches has increased more than that of other states in the last three years and its financial inclusion, particularly the embrace of cashless economy and use of Automated Teller Machine by residents had increased tremendously.”

The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria has in recent years acknowledged Ogun as the industrial hub of Nigeria by virtue of the massive inflow of investments into the state. This is a product of the enabling environment created for business growth by the present government.

Only a few months ago, the British Deputy High Commissioner to Nigeria, Laure Beaufils, declared that Ogun State alone attracted 75 per cent of the Foreign Direct Investment into Nigeria.

It is, therefore, natural for a global institution that is committed to poverty reduction to partner a state that has demonstrated enough capacity for results and is committed to the welfare of its citizens.

Just as the Ogun State Commissioner for Budget and Planning, Ms Denrele Adesina, said at a recent press conference in Abeokuta, “The World Bank budget support is for states that have demonstrated ability for proven results.

The leap of Ogun State from 35th position in 2010 to one of the best five reforming states in 2014 in terms of Ease of Doing Business, growth in IGR, among others, has impressed the global institution, and is therefore willing to partner with our government.”

Contrary to speculations by some mischief makers especially on social media, the World Bank will not credit the account of the state government with $350m in one fell swoop. Once the agreements are finalized, the Bank may disburse up to 20 or 25 per cent as the first tranche to mobilize the government towards delivering results. It is clear that subsequent governments

will be the major beneficiaries.

The $350 facility being sought by the state government is concessionary, offered at a rock bottom interest rate of two per cent with a five-year moratorium and redeemable over a period of 25 years.

The revered government of Chief Olabisi Onabanjo was able to secure such a longterm concessionary facility because it met the required benchmarks. Why will another government that met the same criteria not obtain such a facility to further boost the economy of the state?

If my memory has not failed me, a neighbouring state obtained the same budget support facility of about $600m from the World Bank many years ago. The release of the money has stretched up to the current government.

To quote Adesina once more, “The World Bank is concerned about the welfare of the people of Ogun State. It is interested in capacity building through education, particularly vocational and literary skills, development of agricultural value chain, infrastructural development and policy reforms that help to attract private capital investment in the Ogun State economy. The Amosun administration has demonstrated steady progress on these. The World Bank looks forward to partnering with such states to achieve its global objectives of development.”

In sum, the reality is that the global financial institution is impressed by the giant strides made by the Ibikunle Amosun administration and is pleased to partner with it in order to improve the lot of the masses of Ogun State.

--Soyombo sent this piece from Abeokuta via densityshow@yahoo.com.

79

THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER Ëž ÍąËœ Í°ÍŽÍŻÍľ

Legislature and Budget Implementation Iyiola Omisore

T

he approval of the budget sets the stage for implementation by various ministries, departments and agencies, including the National Assembly and the judiciary.At the implementation stage, the Minister of Finance releases the funds appropriated for each MDA, and collects regular reports from them on the management of such funds.

The MDAs and parastatals of government implement the budget, particularly the overhead expenditure and capital projects, through the procurement goods and services from the private sector. The quality of goods and services procured depends significantly on how the procurement process is managed. Unfortunately, the management of public procurement in Nigeria has been poor. This has accounted for widespread corruption and reduction in the effectiveness of budgeting as a tool for achieving rapid economic transformation and social progress.

Therefore, the National Assembly in exercising its power to make laws for good governance has passed both the Public Procurement Act and Fiscal Responsibility Act. The rationale being to ensure efficient procurement and financial management processes in order to enhance effective budget implementation. Prior to the enactment of the Public Procurement Act 2007, there was no specific law on public expenditure or procurement in Nigeria. The Federal Ministry of Finance, from time to time, issued “Financial Regulations�, which regulated and delegated the responsibilities of public procurement and financial management at the federal level. The Financial Regulations are

essentially an internal set of rules for financial/ economic control of the federal administration. It contains regulations concerning composition of Tender Boards, the limits of their jurisdiction, and procurement process.

The process, however, had several flaws, which made a World Bank team visiting Nigeria in 2000 to observe that the procurement process was the bane of budget implementation because it created room for widespread corruption and worsening living condition for Nigerians even as government expenditure increased geometrically.

The oversight functions enable the elected representatives of the people to ensure that the executive implements laws made by it and utilises moneys appropriated efficiently for the purposes intended.

As regards the Appropriation Act, it is important to ensure that competent men and women are appointed by the executive arm as managers of public funds. Also, it is pertinent to spend public funds on projects that are relevant to the needs of society, and monitoring to ensure compliance with laid down procedures is pursued.

The oversight function of the National Assembly is carried out through its standing committees.

The standing committees serve as the engine of the legislature. It is in the committees that legislative expertise resides, legislative policies incubate, proposals are written or refined, and most importantly, members of the public make direct input into the legislative process. Besides, the committees hold public hearings, conduct investigations and oversee government programmes and activities. The standing rules of the two chambers of the National Assembly confer on the committees various powers, including the power to handle budget estimates and review government programmes and agencies’

spending to ensure strict adherence to the laws.

Each committee performs oversight function on the ministry or agency it is assigned to oversee.

The standing committees of the National Assembly, firstly, carry out detailed consideration of legislative measures and financial proposals in more thorough and detailed manner than is possible on the floor of the chamber. Secondly, the committees scrutinise government administration and oversee the exercise of executive power.

Thirdly, on ad-hoc basis, the committees investigate matters of public concern.

The most important instrument of the National Assembly under the constitution is committee hearings and investigation of activities of the executive branch. Committees hearing offer legislators opportunity to appraise and acquaint themselves with the administration’s plan of action and probe the conduct of affairs of any person, authority, ministry or government department charged or intended to be charged with the responsibility for executing or administering laws enacted by the legislature, or administering moneys appropriated.

The legislative role in the management of public funds does not end with the passage of the Appropriation Bill and oversight function of the committees. It has the onerous responsibility of examining and scrutinising states and federal annual accounts through the Public Accounts Committee arising from the report laid by the Auditor General of the Federation as stipulated under Section 85(2) as follows: “The public accounts of the federation and of all offices and courts of the federation shall be audited and reported on by the Auditor-General who shall submit his/her report to the National Assembly; and for that purpose, the AuditorGeneral or any person authorised by him in that

behalf shall have access to all the books, records returns and other documents relating to those accounts.�

The committees also have the power to invite persons, call for papers and records with regards to the appropriation of the sums approved by the House to meet public expenditure. It has the duty to report its findings from time to time to the House and to sit during any adjournment of the house.

The committee has the power to examine any accounts or reports of statutory corporations and boards after they might have been laid on the table of the House, and also report progress regularly to the House.

The unique role of the Public Accounts Committee demands the representation of all political parties on its membership. It is equally important that experienced accountants and seasoned public and private technocrats serving as legislators are assigned to this committee.

The National Assembly has a pivotal role to play in translating budget to projects. As the eyes and ears of the people, it has responsibility through the legislative process to ensure that the Budget reflects the wishes and aspirations of the people.

Unlike technocrats, the National Assembly derives legitimacy from the people and as such needs to deliver democracy dividends to justify the trust of the people. It is therefore pertinent for this Arm of Government to be adequately supported, equipped and motivated to perform its constitutional assigned responsibilities.

When this is done, the Nigerian Budget would translate to projects that would enhance the living standard of the people.

--Omisore was senator for Osun East senatorial district between 2003 and 2009.

Ă&#x;Ă“Ă–ĂŽĂ“Ă˜Ă‘ Ă‹ ĂœĂ™Ă?ĂšĂ?ĂœĂ™Ă&#x;Ă? Ă•ĂĄĂ‹ ĂŒĂ™Ă— ĂžĂ’ĂœĂ™Ă&#x;Ă‘Ă’ ĂšĂ™ĂœĂžĂ?

Aniekeme Finbarr

I

t was Tommy Lasorda, former American baseball player and coach, who once said, that “there are three types of people. Those who make it happen, those who watch it happen, and those who wonder what happened.� The first line captures the passion that Governor Udom Emmanuel has brought to ‘make things happen’ in sports development in Akwa Ibom State.

It’s no news that Akwa Ibom is the home of sports in Nigeria. It is the fortress of the Super Eagles of Nigeria, the country’s senior national team. The warmth, the hospitality, the facilities and the ecstasy of the people of the state has made several groups and individuals unable to resist the urge to come to Uyo for their sport meets. Just recently, the Super Eagles dominated, annihilated, decimated and destroyed the gutless and gormless Lions of Cameroon by 4-0 to the joy of over 160 million Nigerians. Such priceless excitement!

The Akwa Ibom governor has invested generously in sports Infrastructure and human capital development. The Niger Delta state can boast of a solid consolidation to the existing set of sports facilities. The Godswill Akpabio International stadium stands as a beautiful face of sports in the state and has been excellently managed for optimum use. Mr Emmanuel has decongested the use of the world class facility by upgrading the Uyo township stadium and other stadia in the state. He has also built 10 sports centres with multiple facilities for different sports.

The Udom Emmanuel administration sees sports development as a valuable gift to our children and youths. Just as the Akwa Ibom Governor says “We know that when we expose them to the best sporting facilities at an early age, we have given them wings to soar and the sky can only be the limit. Such thinking gave vent to the establishment of sporting centres in each of the ten Federal constituencies of the State by my administration. Today, sport is beyond the rubrics of the rhetoric of entertainment. The business side of sports is indeed, a goldmine. So, beyond the story of this festival, our youths should be launched to the glory of the money-spinning venture of sports.

We know that the secret of the Lionel Messis, the Christiano Ronaldos, the Serena Willaims,

Udom the Usain Bolts and other world stars, is hidden, first and foremost, in early exposure to worldclass facilities particularly at an early age. So, this catch-them-young initiative is well situated�.

If Nigeria will ever compete in tournaments like the U-17 football competition, it will have to learn to stop cheating by fielding players who are over 17 years. To stop cheating, they have to actively recruit young people right from primary and secondary schools and develop them. As a country, we are used to lying our way to football glory and when modern technology like the MRI outs our dishonesty, we become confused. We need to re-orient ourselves towards doing things the right way.

Getting there requires hard work and planning, something which Nigerian officials almost always seem to abhor.

The Akwa Ibom governor is leading the way to get school sports back on the table with its many advantages. It is heartwarming that Governor Emmanuel loves to win and also sees sports as a window of opportunities to unlock hidden treasures for our younger generation. In 2015, he sat at breakfast with the management and players of our state owned team. He

charged them to write the name of Akwa Ibom State on the national sporting map. He followed them all the way until we broke a 20 year old jinx. We won our first national football trophy at club level when Akwa United won the 2016 Federations Cup and qualified to play at the continental level.

In addition to Akwa United, the state is sponsoring 3 other clubs in the state, Akwa Starlets, Ibom Youth FC, Ibom Angels are playing in different leagues in the country. All the state teams are well funded and performing well.

There is also a long term recruitment and training programme for state athletes even as the state’s performance at the National sports festival has improved every passing year. Akwa Ibom State government is tackling the growing challenge of unemployment among youths and the urgent need for wealth creation in many ways. With a growing youthful population of pupils and students graduating from primary and secondary schools each year and many others from institutions of higher learning, confronting youth unemployment requires more than rocket science approach. One of the ways the state government is confronting this hydraheaded issue is by investing in sports facilities across the state.

Governor Udom Emmanuel is building ten sports centres in the ten federal constituencies in the state. He commissioned the first one few weeks ago at West Itam Secondary School, Itu LGA. The second sports centre at Ikot Mbong, Onna is at advanced stage.

Governor Emmanuel has smashed a hat trick by organising a youth sports festival for children in primary and secondary schools.

Speaking to declare the weeklong festival open, Governor Udom Emmanuel who is spearheading the new momentum of sports development in the state said the business side of sports is a goldmine that has yet to be fully developed. “So, beyond the story of this festival, our youths should be launched to the glory of the money-spinning venture of sports. We know that the secret of the Lionel Messis, the Christiano Ronaldos, the Serena Williams, the Usain Bolts and other world stars, is hidden, first and foremost, in early exposure to world-class facilities particularly at an early age. So, this catch-them-young initiative is well situated,�

Emmanuel said.

According to the governor, no matter one’s

“background, this competition should be regarded as a common ground for all to spring and bring fame to your family, and pride to your state,� adding that by the time we finish “our golden blueprint in sports for Akwa Ibom State, I wonder which team that will be constituted in any sports in Nigeria that the first five to be invited to camp will not be Akwa Ibom children. “Yes, that is not impossible. It is a fruit we will not just pluck or pick by mere wishful thinking, we are planting the seeds on fertile grounds today, we will water the tree tomorrow, and with God, we will reap the fruits in the future. Your attitude will either hasten the ripening process of that cherished fruit or render the harvest incomplete.�

This remarkable initiative by the state government did not fail to attract the attention of the Federal Government as Solomon Dalung, the minister of sports, who was present at the opening of the youth sports festival pledged that the Federal Government would support the Akwa Ibom State in its renewed efforts to develop sports and discover talents saying that there is the need to bring back grassroots sports. “We need to bring back grassroots sports development, we must adopt bottom-to-top approach in sports development,� he said.

Dalung used the opportunity to announce the readiness of the Federal Government to organise the national sports festival as part of efforts to encourage sports development in the country and to give youths the avenue to develop their talents.

Indeed youth unemployment is one of the major issues that should be addressed. The use of sports not only to discover talents but to be a platform for engaging the youths on productive ventures should be supported by public spirited individuals as well. With the faces of the young athletes taking part in the festival beaming and glittering with smiles, the sports festival is indeed an innovative attempt to use sports in addressing the growing menace of youth unemployment and if it is sustained, it would go a long way in providing a conducive atmosphere for the industrial development of Akwa Ibom State. Other governors owe the country a duty to take a clue from these incredible feat. ––Finbarr is a Public Affairs Commentator.

80

SEPTEMBER 3, 2017 หพTHISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER

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81

T H I S D AY, T H E S U N D AY N E W S PA P E R ˾ SEPTEMBER 3, 2017

GAVEL TO GAVEL Before the Executive, Legislature Get in the Ring Again

Edited by Olawale Olaleye

Email: wale.olaleye@thisdaylive.com, SMS: 08116759819

Withtherecentdirectivebythepresidencytosomeofitsnomineestoresumeattheirrespectivedesks before confirmation by the Senate, the Executive might be courting trouble, writes Damilola Oyedele

I

f recent developments are anything to go by, the hitherto frosty relationship between the Executive arm of government and the legislature, the Senate in specific, may yet erupt into another round of stand-off. In the buzz that surrounded penultimate week’s return of President Muhammadu Buhari to Nigeria from London, where he had spent 103 days on medical vacation, a critical news item evaded national attention.

Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo, in his capacity as acting president, on Friday, August 18 had reportedly directed the nominees for the position of chairmen of several agencies to resume office and act, pending their screening and confirmation by the Senate.

The Senate is currently on its annual summer recess, which would last until September 19, 2017.

Osinbajo however hinged his directive on the need to ensure there are no vacuums in the ‘important federal institutions’, which include the Pension Commission (PENCOM), Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offenses Commission (ICPC) and the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB).

According to a statement by the Permanent Secretary in the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF), Mr. Bolaji Adebiyi, the affected nominees are: for PENCOM, Alhaji Ali Usman Ahmed (Acting Chairman), Mr. Funso Doherty (Acting Director-General), Mr. Manasseh T. Denga (Acting Executive Commissioner) Mr. Abubakar Z. Magawata (Acting Executive Commissioner), Mr. Ben Oviosun (Acting Executive Commissioner) and Mr. Nyerere Anyim (Acting Executive Commissioner).

Those affected by the directive at the CCB are Dr. Muhammad Isah (Acting Chairman), Mr. Murtala Kankia (Acting Member), Mr. Emmanuel E. Attah (Acting Member), Mr. Danjuma Sado (Acting Member), Mr. Ubolo I. Okpanachi (Acting Member), Mr. Ken Madaki Alkali (Acting Member), Prof. S. F. Ogundare (Acting Member), Hon. Ganiyu Hamzat (Acting Member), Mr. Saad A. Abubakar (Acting Member) and Dr. Vincent Nwanli (Acting Member).

The only nominee affected by the directive in ICPC is Prof. Bolaji Owasanoye, who was directed to resume as acting chairman.

But the Senate was quick to point out that the Osinbajo directive would contravene the constitution, and cautioned the nominees not to resume work until their nominations are confirmed by it and as required by law.

In a statement by its spokesperson, Senator Sabi Abdullahi, the Senate rejected insinuations that the directive to resume was as a result of an understanding between the Legislature and the Executive.

“TheleadershipoftheSenatehasbeeninundated by enquiries from individuals from across the country, who want to know whether the statement from the office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation to the effect that the nominees into the headship of PenCom, Code of Conduct BureauandICPCshouldresumeworkimmediately pending their confirmation by the Senate was as a result of an understanding between the executive and the legislature.

“We will like to advise the acting president, who was quoted to have given the directive for the resumption of the nominees that the directive was illegal and not right. The Senate will not support any action that is not in line with the law.

We advise the nominees to hold on until they are cleared by the Senate as required by the law before resuming in their respective offices. We do not want anything that will cause any problem between the executive and the legislature,” the statement read.

An Immediate Flashback A situation similar to the latest directive recently played out, culminating in an apology by the Executive to the Senate. The nominee for the position of the Director General of the National Lottery Regulatory Commission (NLRC), Mr. Lanre Gbajabiamila, in May had resumed office immediately he was nominated by the Executive.

His resumption was without the requisite screening and subsequent confirmation by the Senate in line with Section 8 (1) of the Lottery Act.

Buhari and Saraki...maintaining straight faces

The matter was brought to the attention of the Senate, which directed the Majority Leader, Senator Ahmed Lawan, to investigate the report and Lawan, on May 18, 2017 confirmed that Gbajabiamila had indeed been performing the functions of the office, without confirmation of his appointment by the Senate.

“Yesterday (May 17, 2017) the Senate by way of resolution mandated me to investigate an issue, a case of a nominee, who is yet to be screened and confirmed by the Senate and who is yet to receive an appointment letter from the office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, but that nominee assumed office,” he said, adding that “I stand here to report what actually happened.

The nominee for the office the Director-General of the national lottery commission actually assumed office.”

Lawan added that the nominee must have been misguided to assume office without going through due process.

“I spoke with all those, who should know better, including the acting Secretary to the Government of the Federation, and the conclusion is that he erred because probably he did not get the correct briefing that he should have waited until the due processanddiligencewerecompleted,”Lawansaid.

“I believe that was an error and there was a genuine appeal from the Executive that no such thing would ever happen again. I advised the SGF that the nominee should not be seen within the vicinity of the office of the DG until he is confirmed and an appointment letter is given to him,” the leader said.

The nominee adhered to the Senate directive to quit the office, and is currently awaiting his screening following the transmission of the nomination letter to the Senate by the Presidency.

It is therefore surprising that the presidency would again direct some nominees to resume without confirmation.

For clarification purposes, Section 154 of the 1999 constitution specifically mentions that the chairman and member of the board of the Code of Conduct Bureau, shall be appointed by the President but subject to the confirmation by the Senate. While the appointees of the ICPC Board and PENCOM are not specifically mentioned in

the constitution (as being argued in the unresolved impasse concerning the Acting Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Mr. Ibrahim Magu), they are also not listed as part of the appointments the President can make without requiring Senate confirmation.

Section 19 (3) of the Pension Reform Act provides that the Chairman, Director General and Commissioners shall be appointed by the President, subject to confirmation by the Senate. The Establishment Act of the ICPC also requires Senate confirmation for the Chairman and members, after appointment by the Senate, but goes further to add that they cannot resume their duties without declaring their assets.

It is surprising that the presidency would again direct some nominees to resume without confirmation.

For clarification purposes, Section 154 of the 1999 constitution specifically mentions that the chairman and member of the board of the Code of Conduct Bureau, shall be appointed by the President but subject to the confirmation by the Senate

The Pertinent Questions In considering the presidential directive, it is important that some pertinent questions are raised. For starters, in directing them to act pending screening and confirmation, what assurances does the presidency have that the nominees would pass the screening? After all, the presidency had nominated two persons: Maimuma Aliyu and Sa’ad Alanamu, who are currently being investigated for alleged corruption, to the board of the ICPC. The presidency had to withdraw their nominations after the discovery, indicating that the nominees were not properly vetted by the presidency before the nomination. Secondly, would any action taken by the nominees in acting capacity be considered legally binding? What happens to the actions of a nominee, who has acted until screening is rejected? How would the actions taken by him or her be construed? Would the nominee be replaced by the Executive as done in the case of an ambassadorial nominee from Ondo State, Mr. Jacob Daodu, who was rejected based on a report by the Department of State Services (DSS), which indicted him for corruption. Daodu was replaced by the presidency with Mr. Olusola Iji, who has since been confirmed.

Or would the Executive retain the nominee, while it explores constitutional loopholes as is being done in the case of Magu? ICPC board and PENCOM are not explicitly stated in the 1999 Constitution, just like the EFCC, but Acts establishing the three agencies provide for confirmation by the Senate.

Conclusion It is gratifying to read that several of the nominees have refused to comply with the directive. But issuing such order reinforces speculations that the executive may not have learnt lessons from issues that caused frictions between it and the legislature.

A worst case scenario would have envisaged a temporary shared understanding with the Senate, much as it would have been against extant laws, to have these people resume whilst their screening was pending. But sadly, such an understanding would have been feasible in a situation where there is mutual respect between the two arms of government.

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T H I S D AY, T H E S U N D AY N E W S PA P E R Ëž SEPTEMBER 3, 2017

IMAGES

T

he Oxford and Cambridge Club of Nigeria annual May Ball 2017 was held at the Metropolitan Club, victoria lsland, Lagos recently. The British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Mr. Paul Akwright, and his Deputy, Ms. Laure BeauďŹ ls, were in attendance as special guests of honour. Here are the faces of personalities at the occasion.

Photographs: Abiodun Ajala

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L-R: President, Metropolitan Club, Chief Obafemi. Olopade and Ambassador Oladapo Fafowora

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L-R: Prof. and Mrs. Fidelis Oditah QC, SAN

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L-R: Mr. Idowu Adebowale, Mr Sola Abudu and Mr Sule Sanusi

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T H I S D AY, T H E S U N D AY N E W S PA P E R ˾ SEPTEMBER 3, 2017

SUNDAYSPORTS

Edited by Demola Ojo Email demola.ojo@thisdaylive.com

Russia 2018: Super Eagles Storm Yaoundé to Ensure Qualification Duro Ikhazuagbe in Yaoundé

A

fter demystifying African champions Cameroon in Uyo on Friday with the resounding 4-0 defeat of the Indomitable Lions, the Super Eagles are scheduled to storm Yaoundé this morning for the reverse fixture of the World Cup qualifier.

According to the programme rolled out by the Nigeria Football Football (NFF) yesterday, the 80-man Nigerian delegation is scheduled to fly out of the Akwa Ibom capital by a chartered Arik Air flight into Yaoundé before noon.

Eagles are aiming to do a double on the Cameroonians by picking all six points in the Russia 2018 double header between both countries within a space of four days.

With Zambia’s 3-1 defeat of Algeria in Lusaka yesterday in Group B’s other match of the qualifiers to move up into the second spot, the Indomitable Lions were further pushed down to the third position on just two points from three games.

Super Eagles TechnicalAdviser, Gernot Rohr, allowed his wards the luxury of recovery from the bruising battle with Cameroon on Friday with just light workout.

While the wounded Cameroonians returned to full training almost immediately on reaching their base, Eagles took time out to watch clips of the game all over again and made corrections in areas the handlers considered not in line with the game plan put in place

by Rohr.

Atop NFF official told THISDAY in Uyo that the players are in high spirit and believe that they can repeat the feat in Yaounde tomorrow.

Super Eagles celebrating one of four goals against Camerron

“The players have regained their self-belief and are now set to prove that the feat in Uyo was no fluke. They are aiming to pick all six points from the Cameroonians by also winning the second leg,” stressed the top football official to THISDAY at the Ibom Meridian Resort in Uyo last night.

Captain of the team, John Mikel Obi, was full of excitement when asked what to expect from the reverse fixture.

“I have no doubt in my mind that we are going to consolidate on our leadership of the group come Monday in Yaoundé. We are going there to improve on the game we

played at home here in Uyo when we take on the Cameroonians again.”

The Super Eagles and the Nigerian delegation is scheduled to leave straight from the Omnisport Stade Ahmadu Ahidjo to the airport for the return journey to Abuja on Monday night.

Ola Aina Cleared Mikel: We Can Beat Anyone in Africa for Eagles Duro Ikhazuagbe

H

ull City right back, Ola Aina, is likely going to make his debut for Nigeria tomorrow when Eagles take on the Indomitable Lions in the reverse fixture of The World Cup 2018 qualifier.

THISDAY learnt in Uyo yesterday that the player was cleared by FIFA for international switch few hours to Friday’s match with Cameroon.

Aina would have played in the Match-day 3 but for Gernot Rohr’s insistence not to disrupt his game plan for the invading Lions.

The player whose full name is Temitayo Olufisayo Olaoluwa Aina was born of Nigerian parents on October 8 1996 in Southwark England but had featured for England at youth level.

He was in England’s U-16 team in the 2011/12 season with which he played six matches and moved on to play 11 times for the U-17 side in 2012/13.

Aina later played a match for England’s U-18 and 13 games for the U-19 team from 2013 to 2015. Up till last year, he was in England’s U-20 side.

However, five days after Nigeria played 1-1 with Senegal in a friendly match, NFF President, Amaju Pinnick, met him and Chuba Akpom of Arsenal ostensibly to persuade him on international switch.

It worked. In May, Aina pledged his international future to Nigeria and reportedly obtained a Nigerian passport.

There and then, the process of changing his international status began with FIFA.

N

igeriacaptainJohnObiMikelbelieves his side is capable of beating any team in Africa following their 4-0 destruction of Cameroon on Friday evening.

The Super Eagles handed the reigning African champions a football lesson in their 2018 World Cup qualifying clash in Uyo, with Odion Ighalo, Mikel, Victor Moses and Kelechi Iheanacho all finding the back of the net.

The result leaves Nigeria on the cusp of qualify-

ing for the 2018 finals. One more win from their remaining three Group B matches will probably be enough for Gernot Rohr’s side to book a flight to Russia.

“We have a very young team, obviously I have been here for a long time and now I am the captain of the team,” said a proud Mikel at the post-match press conference.

“I feel I have responsibility every time I step on the pitch to play. This team needs experience, this team needs guidance. The players are very good

players, quick players. ”Sometimes they need someone they listen to, someone who can direct them to make sure we have balance and know exactly what we are doing and that’s what we did today.”

Mikel added : “I will do my best, I will carry this team same way I did in the Olympics.

“I want to make sure we go the World Cup and also qualify for the Nations Cup. If we continue playing this way, I think we can beat anybody in Africa.”

Zambia Beat Algeria, Ivory Coast Thrash Gabon

Z

ambia secured all three points against Algeria with a 3-1 victory in front of their home fans.

A Brian Mwila brace helped Zambia keep their 2018 World Cup qualification dream alive with a 3-1 win over Algeria on Saturday, leaving the Desert Foxes’ hopes of reaching Russia in tatters.

The result in Lusaka moves Zambia up to second in Group B after three matches, five points behind leaders Nigeria. Algeria - who were without playmaker Riyad Mahrez - are bottom of the standings on just one point.

Elsewhere, Ivory Coast were 3-0 winners in Gabon to go top of Group C. Zambia’s Brian Mwila scored the first of his two goals against Algeria from a powerful header off a well-placed Augustine Mulenga cross in the sixth minute.

Mwila added a second after 32 minutes, this time with a close-range shot after Algerian goalkeeper and captain, Rais Mbolhi, failed to keep hold of the ball.

Algeria fought back in the second half and were rewarded with a goal from just outside the box by Yacine Brahimi in the

53rd minute.

The Desert Foxes were given a further boost just three minutes later when Zambia’s Fashion Sakala was sent off for a second yellow card.

However, Algeria found it difficult to get the equaliser and two minutes from time, substitute Enock Mwepu scored Zambia’s third to make it 3-1 to the hosts.

The result all-but ends Algeria’s hopes of qualifying for the 2018 World Cup in Russia, but keeps Zambia’s slim hopes alive.

The two teams will meet again in Constantine on Tuesday.

In Libreville, Ivory Coast were 3-0 winners over Gabon to go top of Group C, two points above Morocco who thrashed Mali 6-0 on Friday.

After a barren first half, Max Gradel opened the scoring for the visitors with a goal in the 53rd minute. Seydou Doumbia - currently on loan at Sporting in Portugal from Roma - then struck twice in six minutes to give the Elephants the win.

Both his goals were supplied by Gervinho, the first coming on 77 minutes when he lifted

the ball over Gabon’s goalkeeper.

His second, on 83 minutes, went in off the far post after a sweetly-struck strike.

Gabon were without their talismanic forward Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang who was not available for this fixture.

Ivory Coast have not lost in World Cup qualifying for 26 games - a run that has been going for 12 years. On Tuesday, the two teams will face each other again in Bouake.

RUSSIA 2018 WCQ RESULTS Zambia Gabon Senegal Spain Ukraine Wales

3-1 0-3 0-0 3-0 2-0 1-0

Algeria Ivory Coast Burkina Faso Italy Turkey Austria

T H I S D AY, T H E S U N D AY N E W S PA P E R ˾ SEPTEMBER 3, 2017

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NEWSXTRA Insurgency: NAF Neutralises Hundreds of Boko Haram Terrorists in Sambisa Forest

Traditional Leader Canvasses Devolution of Power for Greater Efficiency

Paul Obi in Abuja

Funmi Ogundare

In a new onslaught against the Boko Haram insurgents in the North East, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) yesterday bombarded the sect’s hideout, neutralising hundreds of the terrorists.

The attack on the sect came amid the new mandate by authorities to military troops extending the dateline for the capture of Boko Haram leader, Abubakar Shekau.

But speaking, NAF Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Olatokunbo Adesanya, said

the bombardment was carried out in continuation of fishing out Boko Haram terrorists from Sambisa Forest.

Adesanya said: “The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) neutralised hundreds of Boko Haram Terrorists (BHTs) in Garin Maloma area in Sambisa Forest. A NAF Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) platform had earlier sighted the BHTs who were gathered under some trees.”

He explained that “consequently, a combination of NAF fighter aircraft namely the F7-Ni, Alpha Jet and L-39

ZA aircraft was detailed to carry out air interdiction on the BHT gathering.

“The Alpha Jet aircraft acquired and attacked the target with bombs, neutralising many of the BHTs. Thereafter, the F-Ni aircraft immediately conducted a bomb attack, which resulted in the death of more BHTs. “The L-39ZA aircraft then followed through by strafing fleeing terrorists with rockets, killing most of them in the process. After the attacks, a few BHT survivors were seen scampering from the location.”

Also, following the flood

which has continued to wreak havoc in Makurdi, the Benue State capital, ravaging other parts of the state, NAF yesterday air-lifted officials of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to the state for prompt intervention.

According to Adesanya, NAF also “conveyed the Director General of the National Emergency Management Authority (NEMA) and other NEMA officials to Makurdi to give effect to the Presidential directive to assist flood victims in Makurdi. The NAF Beechcraft KingAir aircraft was used to convey the team.”

President, Association of Lagos Titled Chiefs and Iya Abiye of Lagos, Chief Iyabo Foresythe has advocated less subjugation of the federating units as a way to propel economic development and explore Nigeria’s economic potentials by the states.

In a chat with THISDAY yesterday, she appealed that the issue of devolution of power to the federating units be viewed from the point of reworking the country for greater efficiency.

According to her, “Each

NOPRINPetitionsLagosCPoverUnlawfulDetention,DemandforBribe Chiemelie Ezeobi

The Network on Police Reform in Nigeria (NOPRIN), a network of 49 civil society organisations, has petitioned the Lagos State Police Command over the unlawful detention of one Blessing and the demand for bribe of N70,000 to secure her release.

The petition signed by NOPRIN National Coordinator, Okechukwu Nwanguma, was addressed to the Commissioner of Police, Edgal Imohmini.

The petition reads in part: “NOPRIN has received some shocking information

concerning alleged criminal, unprofessional and discreditable conduct by the Officer in Charge (OC), Anti-Kidnapping Squad, Lagos State Police Command, Mr. Adejobi and other officers under him.

“We hereby request you to order a prompt, impartial and full investigation with a view to ensuring that they are brought to book if found to be culpable.

“NOPRIN is informed as follows: That on August 31, 2017, Juliana Francis, Crime Editor at New Telegraph Newspapers, Lagos State received a call from her colleague, Juliana Taiwo Oba-

lonye, also a journalist with The Sun Newspapers who informed her that her sister, Blessing, a single mother of two, had been arrested and detained since August 29.

“She was arrested on the allegation that she stole the sum of $50,000 belonging to her colleague, Mrs. Abiola Ojo Osagie, with whom she had worked for 10 years.

“That Mrs. Abiola Osagie claimed that she left the $50,000 in a bag in her office and travelled for three weeks.

“That when Mrs. Abiola Osagie returned, she didn’t check the bag for some days and when she eventually

checked, she discovered that the money was gone and she immediately accused Blessing because she had a key to the office and was in charge of delegating people to sweep that office.

“That Mrs. Abiola Osagie reported the matter at Ikoyi Police Station and Blessing was arrested on August 29.

That after investigation, which included a search on Blessing’s home and a check on her bank account, the DPO advised that Blessing should be allowed to go.

“That not satisfied with the DPO’s investigation and advice, Osagie allegedly asked

the DPO to ‘make Blessing confess’ to the crime, but the DPO made it clear to her that torture is not part of investigation in his station.

“That Osagie then took the matter to the Anti-Kidnapping and Cultism Unit of the Lagos State Police Command under the charge of Mr. Adejobi with one Igbin as IPO. That the OC Anti-Kidnapping Section ordered that Blessing be locked up among suspected cultists and kidnappers.

“That Blessing spent most of her hours in the cell crying, with her children left in the care of neighbours.”

state has its comparative advantages and must therefore struggle to raise its revenue profile in order to meet the needs of the people. Until the states are strengthened and made viable, the federal government cannot be strong. Every state has its own peculiarity as we are all naturally endowed. The endowment might not be in equal proportion, but each federating unit sure needs the other.

“Kebbi State is a good pointer to improving internal revenue by harnessing abundant available resources through rice production and processing for the Lagos market. Also, we applaud the recent proposal between Lagos and Kano States for a joint economic summit, as an initiative in the right direction towards stronger federating units, repositioning to harness its economic potentials.”

Foresythe stressed the need for a constitution that would provide for healthy and broad distribution of economic power to the states with incentives to encourage the active participation of the states to bolster and sustainably expand the Nigerian economy via harnessing of their comparative advantages, adding that, “arising from this will be a diversified economy and revenue base, not susceptible to the volatile, cyclical and dwindling energy market in which present day Nigeria depends.”

PHOTO NEWS

Ogun State Governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun and his wife, Olufunso, with children at the Ileya Kiddies Party held at Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta...yesterday

L-R: Baba Adinni, Ibokun Muslim Community, Alhaji Yekini Farayibi; Chairman Osun State House of Assembly Committee on Information, Hon Bosun Oyintiloye; Imam of Ibokunland, Alhaji Bello Tijani; and Chairman, Ibokun Muslim Community, Alhaji Wahab Adeyemo, during the 2017 Eid-el-Kabir prayer at Ibokun Eid praying ground in Osun...on Friday

L-R: Oluwo of Iwoland, Oba Abdul-Rasheed Adewale Akanbi; Alhaji Debo Badru, Media Aide to Osun state Governor, Mr Kunle Owolabi, and Special Adviser to the governor on Information and Strategy, Alhaji Semiu Okanlawon, during the 2017 Eid-el-Kabir prayers, at Iwo Central Eid-Praying ground, Iwo, in Osun...on Friday

L-R: Secretary, Rotary Club of Ikeja Lagos, Rotarian Muyiwa Fagbola; the current President, Rotarian Adeniyi Adelaja; past District 9110 Nigeria Governor, Rotarian Prince Julius Adelusi-Adeluyi and past President Rotarian Ade Oyenekan at the Club Golden Jubilee...recently

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T H I S D AY, T H E S U N D AY N E W S PA P E R Ëž ÍąË&#x153; Í°ÍŽÍŻÍľ

High Life

͎͎͜;ʹ͜͜ͳ;ͳͰ

...Amazing lifestyles of Nigeriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rich and famous

HighďŹ&#x201A;ying Tony Elumelu Gets a Ringside Seat at the Mayweather Vs Mcgregor Fight

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ndeed, the very rich have their unique ways of doing things.

While millions of boxing fans kept vigil across the world last Saturday night to watch the super fight between Floyd Mayweather and Conor Mcgregor, the chairman of UBA, Tony Elumelu, flew to Los Angeles and was live at the 20, 000-seater T Mobile Arena venue of the fight. A ringside ticket costs a nosebleeding $107, 000 but that could never have burnt a hole into the deep pocket of the 54-year-old billionaire who days earlier, announced a donation of $500, 000 to mudslide victims in Sierra Leone. He was at home in the midst of global leaders and Hollywood celebrities and rap royalties as they savoured the fight most believed was nothing more than an impossible fantasy.

He is probably richer than many of them put together anyway. And he posted pictures

and videos to his social media pages.

One of Nigeriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most formidable entrepreneurs, the avid reader, fitness addict, motivational speaker, philanthropist and father of five girls is the founder of Heirs Holdings.

The proprietary investment company, with interests in power, oil and gas, financial services, hospitality, real estate and healthcare is operational in 20 countries across the world. There is also the Tony Elumelu Foundation which recently launched the $100 million TEF Entrepreneurship Programme. The TEFEP aims to assist in growing 10,000 start-up companies across the African continent over the next 10 years â&#x20AC;&#x2022; demonstrating a commitment to empowering entrepreneurs to drive Africaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s social and economic transformation.

Dj Cuppy

FROM LONDON TO LOS ANGELES AND LAGOS... DJ CUPPY BECOMES NIGERIAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S MOST SOUGHT AFTER DJ Very few children, like Ifeoluwa aka DJ Cuppy, of billionaire parents, actually get to enjoy such freedom. Aided by her highly liberal father and Forbes-certified

billionaire boss of Forte Oil, Femi Otedola, DJ Cuppy navigates the tumultuous shoals of Nigeriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s entertainment sector with the tenacity and skill of a practiced seafarer.

Rather than tread the beaten path and immerse herself in pursuits supportive of her family

Tony Elumelu at the Mayweather vs Mcgregor ďŹ ght

business like many of her peers from filthy-rich families, DJ Cuppy chose to be different, seeking out her livelihood and acclaim in her passion for music and entertainment. DJ Cuppy chose to be a Disc Jockey (DJ) and in pursuit of her dream, she had only two prospects: total failure or vast success. There would be no middle ground. Now, She is a success story.

However, if ever a single snapshot told a complete story, a cursory scrutiny of the itinerary of DJ Cuppy in the last three months alone would have earmarked her as Nigeriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s busiest Disc Jockey.

From Lagos to London, South Africa to Ghana, Dubai to South of France, Cuppy is everywhere!

She is the favourite of the rich and famous, the aristocrats and the elites, celebrities and celebutantes. Livelier than a beehive and lovable, DJ Cuppy was on the wheels of steel at the recent 65th birthday party of Senator Daisy Danjuma held at the Eko Hotel and Suites, Lagos, where sources said she didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t give the guests a breathing space as she took them back and forth a trail of musical reminiscences, music that reminded many of them of their youth and courtship days and she was not found wanting when it came to contemporary songs too.

Among other exclusive

events for prominent Nigerians, especially those high-paying ones that never make the blogs or tabloids, she performed for the richest black woman in the world, Folorunsho Alakija; and former Governor of Ekiti State, Otunba Niyi Adebayoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s son wedding in New York among others.

In a male-dominated industry, where talents abound and the competition is cutthroat, the Disc Jockey-daughter of billionaire businessman, Femi Otedola, has proven that the sun doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to go down for her moon to shine. While her stock keeps rising at home, Cuppy has been flown to every part of the world for performances. Those who have seen the graduate of Kings College, London, at work say her strength lies in her clinical understanding of her crowd and ability to play the music that suits them at every point in time.

FORMULA BOSS, YEMI ISHOLA, AVIS BOSS, WOLE OGUNBAJO, AND LANRE KUPOLUYI OLUSOLA CLOCK 50 Ëž

Unbeknownst to many who have known him on the Lagos fashion scene for the past decade or more, stylish man-abouttown, Yemi Ishola, is a twin. He has a twin sister with whom

86

T H I S D AY, T H E S U N D AY N E W S PA P E R Ëž ÍąË&#x153; Í°ÍŽÍŻÍľ

B

High Society on Edge... As Dehinde Fernandezâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Grandson, Finance Commissioner Set to Marry Donald Dukeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Daughters

arring any last minute change in plans, former governor of Cross River, Donald Duke, is about to become an inlaw of one of Nigeriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s preeminent billionaires, the late ambassador plenipotentiary, Dehinde Fernandez.

The Baron of Dudley and global businessman died September 2015.

Fernandezâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s death would however not take the shine off the proposed union between his grandson, Derin Phillips popularly known in entertainment circles as DJ Caise, and Xerona, the svelte, music-loving daughter of Duke. Derinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mum is Teju Phillips (nee Fernandez), a former commissioner in Lagos State. He is an Economics graduate of the University of Reading and has a masterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s degree in Finance from the same institution.

Xerona, on the other hand, is the eldest daughter of the likeable former governor. A law graduate of the University of Nottingham, UK, Xerona

they adjttended the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ife. As he turned 50 during the past week, Yemi Ishola, popular clothier and stylish businessman, would look back at his life and smile at his achievements as an entrepreneur.

It is expected. Long before now, Yemi and his erstwhile partner, Eyo Effiong, used to run the popular but now defunct Made on Earth boutique on Awolowo Road, Ikoyi; Mega plaza and GRA Ikeja, before the fashion business became an all-comerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s affair. They were the go-to-guys for high street fashion accessories and all. And they made good in the

Lanre Olusola

is currently working on a music career with the full support of her father. The couple announced their engagement on Instagram last week. Since he left office in 2007, Duke has been very visible in social circles. Thus, DJ Caise and Xeronaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s impending wedding promises to be grand. Meanwhile, Xeronaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s younger sister, Nuella, also got engaged to Asuquo Ekpeyong, the current Commissioner for finance in Cross River State. Regarded as Nigeriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s youngest commissioner, the 31-yearold Ekpeyong reportedly proposed to Nuella at a private dinner in the presence of friends and family about a month ago.

Like DJ Caise, Ekpeyong studied Economics at the University of Reading where he also bagged a Msc. Distinction in International Banking and Financial Services.

He also attended the Key Executive Program at the Harvard Business School, Boston USA. No date has been set for either of the weddings. business before they parted ways.

Though Yemi still runs Formula, Eyo has since moved into real estate. What Yemi lost in Eyo, he has regained in many other high profile friends including soccer legend, Austin Jay Jay Okocha. Also, former partners, Kolawole Ogunbanjo, the Country Manager of AVIS, and Lanre Kupoluyi-Olusola, The Catalyst, who used to run a fashion outfit in Surulere and Victoria Island, Lagos, clocked 50 some days ago.

For the duo, their claim to fame was their fashion business back then. Not surprisingly, many friends gathered round them, popping champagne and downing expensive cognacs in celebration of the coming of age of men who they described as genial and generous and some of the most stylish in their generation.

WHEN LEEMON IKPEA BROUGHT TWO FRIENDS TOGETHER...AS FORMER PRESIDENT OLUSEGUN OBASANJO, OTUNBA FASAWE PARTY Perhaps only an engineering magnate like Chief Leemon Ikpea, Chairman/Chief Executive Officer, Lee Engineering and Construction Company, could have pulled the string he did last weekend. The billionaire hosted both former President Olusegun Obasanjo and his estranged best friend, Otunba Johnson Fasawe, at his palatial Banana Island, Lagos, home. He treated the friends and a few other guests, including Timi Alaibe, former

Derin Phillips and Xerona Duke

managing director of the Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, among others to a sumptuous dinner. Beyond the merriment, the host ensured that his two older friends settled their long-drawn acrimony that night. It would be recalled that in the heydays of the Obasanjo presidency, Otunba Fasawe was a prominent member of his kitchen cabinet. He even famously had a complimentary card bearing â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Personal Friend of the President of the Federationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. However, he was caught in the crossfire of the quarrel between Obasanjo and his vice president, Atiku Abubakar.

Leemon Ikpea

The friendship degenerated to the extent that the EFCC beamed their searchlight on him a few times; a move many believe was engineered by Obasanjo.

Well, all that is now in the past as the friends ate and drank and clinked glasses to their renewed friendship. The Odolagbon of Warri Kingdom, Chief Ikpea who recently graduated from Harvard University is a billionaire contractor and construction engineer.

ITâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S ALL OVER...OLORI WURAOLA REVERTS TO MAIDEN NAME, CONFIRMS SPLIT FROM OONI What started as mere speculations weeks back has been laid to rest for good. Olori Wuraola, until now, the wife of the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, has confirmed that indeed, the marriage, contracted in March 2016, has hit the skids.

On her social media pages, she has reverted to her maiden name, Zaynab-Otiti Obanor. While disclaiming the false information surrounding the separation, she said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have got to stop this culture of shaming and vilifying women with false stories of infidelity & nefarious behaviour.

The spreading of false information (through â&#x20AC;&#x153;sourcesâ&#x20AC;? afraid to be identified) is the mark of cowards and a cover up for guilty parties to justify their horrific actions.

There is absolutely no truth to the media circulated lies of infidelity and infertility - on my end. What I can confirm, is that the Ooni and

87

Ë&#x153; Ëž SEPTEMBER 3, 2017

HIGHLIFE

Hanan Buhariâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Love for Photography

E

minent Nigerians, including some of her dadâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s appointees, rallied round Hanan, the 18-yearold daughter of President Muhammadu Buhari, on the opening day of her photo exhibition tagged â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Innovation by Hananâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. The 2-day exhibition, centred on the Fulani pastoral culture, held at Thought Pyramid Art Centre, Abuja. Some of the guests included her mum, Aisha Buhari; Minister of Information and Culture, Lai Mohammed; Director Generals of the National Tourism Development Board, Folarin Coker, and the National Gallery of Arts, Abdullahi Muku; Managing Director of the News Agency of Nigeria, Bayo Onanuga; and Artistic Director of the National Theatre and National Troupe of Nigeria, Tar Ukoh.

Celebrity photographer, TY Bello, was also present. According to Bello who said she was impressed by the talents and boldness of the young photographer and

found her works â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;really amazingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Parents must allow their children to have their own voices and encourage them to express themselves. The exhibition is key; being a pointer to the fact that art is not just on the side, art is just as important as medicine and other professions people place priority on.â&#x20AC;? The last child of the first family beamed with joy as the guests had compliments for her impressive photographs.

Her sisters were not left out. The recently married Zahra came with her husband. So was the first son, Yusuf, whose friends came in droves. In her remark, Hanan said her work was â&#x20AC;&#x153;unique, has a different definition and style and sends different messages to different people around the world.â&#x20AC;?

Speaking at the event, Mohammed described the photo exhibition as a game changer, saying Hananâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s uncommon passion for photography will encourage more young people to showcase their creativity.

United Nations.

Zaynab-Otiti Obanor

I are no more.â&#x20AC;? She continued, â&#x20AC;&#x153;The throne is sacred and the attempts to tarnish the name of a Queen, in defense or on behalf of a silent King makes all involved look terrible. Remain dignified in all you do. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not the end of the world, but the start of a new chapter and you must turn the page with grace. The world is watching. As I bid adieu to this chapter, my wish to you all is to step into your lives â&#x20AC;&#x201C; boldly and fearlessly, the way God intended and live not just by words, but through example. The best chapter in our lives is the one we are writing now.â&#x20AC;? Ms Otiti-Obanor said however that her journey continues as a humanitarian aiding women and victims of domestic violence and abuse with the

ABOUT THE OONIâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S THREE POWERFUL SISTERS... WHY THE NEW OLORI MUST KOWTOW TO THEM As the dust generated by the estrangement of the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, and Olori Wuraola settles, followed by the reported arrival of a yetto-be unveiled new wife, palace sources say apart from the normal indoctrination into palace life and how to carry oneself as a queen, the new wife has been informed that she either learns to worship his three sisters or be ready to go the way of those who came before her. Before Wuroala and the monarchy, the Ooni was married to Bukola. They were together for about eight years. However, as a young couple, they had their madcap moments. Unbeknownst to Bukola, her hubbyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s three sisters, Princesses Folashade, Adesola and Bimpe, were recording all her wrongdoings. By the time he became Ooni, Bukolaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cup was full by the Princessesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; estimation and they swore she would not be dignified with a role in the palace because of her past transgressions. People thought they were bluffing. The mother of the Ooniâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s only child was not only like a pariah in the palace in the early days of the Ooniâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s enthronement, she left quietly for London where she currently resides. The same fate has befallen Olori Wuraola who actually was not their choice as a wife for their brother as they threw many ladies his way in hope that he would find one desirable and deserving of the title of an Ooniâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wife. The battle line was drawn from the day he announced his decision to

Hanan Buhari

settle for Wuraola. Now that she is gone, attention shifts to the new wife. Known to always appear with the monarch at functions especially when he was newly installed, Princess Adebimpe sums up the bond between the siblings. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Before he became Ooni in those good old days, anytime I see him, the first thing I do was to put my head on his chest. I am so fond of him. I missed that a lot. Though we still talk, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not like before.

When we were growing up, we used to fight a lot. Yes, I miss that too. I miss the way we play and run around the house. The four of us are super close. I mean Kabiyesi and his three sisters. Now, he is the father of all.â&#x20AC;? A great influence

on the Ooni especially when it has to be about his marital felicity, ironically, the Princesses are not marital successes either. Princesses Adesola and Adebimpe are divorced. As you read, Adebimpeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s estranged husband still works in the Ile-Ife palace. Only Folashade, the first daughter is currently married.

Incidentally, her husband, Jide Fadairo, manages Inagbe Grand Resorts, the luxury relaxation and holiday destination, owned by the Ooni. Before he started working for his much younger brotherin-law, Fadairo was a popular businessman who introduced the luxury car rental business, Executive Coach and Town Cars.

Ooniâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sisters

Sunday September 3, 2017

TR

UT H

& RE A S O

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Price: N400

MISSILE Buhari to Nigerians “I assure you that this administration, which has made the security, economic well-being and prosperity of all Nigerians its priority, will not rest on its oars until we see the Nigeria of our dream.”

– President Muhammadu Buhari reassuring the nation that his administration will not rest on its oars until security and economic well-being and prosperity of all Nigerians are achieved.

SIMONKOLAWOLE SIMONKOLAWOLELIVE!

simon.kolawole@thisdaylive.com, sms: 0805 500 1961

1999 Constitution as ‘Enemy of Progress’

W

ith the campaign for #BringBack1963Constitution gaining momentum, how many Nigerians have bothered to read the document? Never mind. In Nigeria, it doesn’t matter. Just repeat what you hear people say and you would be fine. But if you actually go through the 1963 constitution in line with the ferocious campaign for “restructuring”, the part that easily stands out is section 140 (1) which stipulated derivation payment of 50% to the region where minerals are mined.

Take away that section and you will wonder what is divine about that constitution. Then take away oil completely from the Nigerian equation and the cries for “restructuring” will mellow down.

That is why I suspect that the campaign for restructuring is a political game for some people — aimed at hitting back at the north for being “parasites on our oil”. And that is why no northerner of note supports the campaign.

Listen to Gen. Ibrahim Babangida and Alhaji Atiku Abubakar closely and you will notice that their definition of “restructuring” has nothing to do with a return to 50% derivation.

Conversely, if the oil belonged to the north, it is northerners that would be demanding “restructuring” and labelling southerners as “parasites on our oil”. After all, northerners also love to talk about “our agriculture” from time to time. Politics, damned!

In my previous article, This Thing Called ‘1999 Constitution’, I pursued the argument that contrary to the claim that the military wrote the current constitution, it is strikingly a replica of the 1979 constitution, debated upon and produced by an elected Constituent Assembly made of Nigerians (when agitators demand a constitution “written by Nigerians”, was our constitution written by Togolese?) There were indeed complaints that the military “smuggled” 19 items, including the Land Use Act (which, funny enough, favours the states) and the NYSC Act, into the 1979 constitution, but there were hundreds of provisions that were not contraband.

Just saying.

Chief Obafemi Awolowo, who declined to serve on the constitution drafting committee in 1975 over matters of principle, was a wellknown “federalist”. But he did not reject the 1979 constitution. Rather, he decided to surrender himself to it, to constructively engage with it and to make the best of it. Although he did not win the 1979 presidential election, the states governed by the UPN, his party, implemented his ideals of free education and free healthcare — and, lest I forget, good governance. Alhaji Lateef Jakande, the governor of Lagos state, was the shining star. I think UPN governors generally did well under the “military” constitution — in spite of the “smuggling” saga.

We now shift attention to the 1999 constitution — the latest stumbling block to Nigeria’s development, according to many legal and political experts. How many Nigerians have really spent time to study the document?

Never mind. We have been told it is a useless constitution, so why bother to read it? Regardless, under Chapter II of the damned constitution, section 8 says government shall provide (a) free, compulsory and universal primary education (b) free secondary education (c) free university education and (d) free adult literacy programme.

It also says, in section 14, that Nigeria “shall be a State based on the principles of democracy and social justice”.

Tinubu To avoid the lopsided appointments being made by President Muhammadu Buhari since he came to power in 2015, sub-section 14 (3) mandates the federal government to be fair to all sections of the country in the composition of agencies, to promote “unity” and command “national loyalty”, thereby ensuring that there shall be no predominance of persons from a few states or from a few ethnic groups in government. That is the constitution we hate so much and seek to destroy. Lawyers say Chapter II is not “justiceable” (that is, courts can’t enforce it). Why not seek an amendment to make it justiceable? Why re-invent the wheel?

Why write an entirely new constitution?

Mr. Femi Falana, human rights lawyer, once pointed out that under the same 1999 constitution, railway is on the exclusive list — but Lagos state is building a rail line from Badagry to Marina.

Rivers state has built a monorail. Heavens are yet to fall. Aviation is also on the exclusive list.

Yet states are building or have built airports.

Gombe, Anambra, Delta, Nasarawa and Akwa Ibom states are ready examples here. Nobody has gone to jail for that. Power is on the exclusive list. Lagos, Akwa Ibom and Rivers have built or are building power plants — under the same “unitary” constitution! Excuses are the easiest thing to give in this world when all you want to play is politics.

I have thoroughly read the 1999 constitution and I have seen nothing in it preventing states from forming “regional” alliances to promote common interests. The last time I did some research, I found out that south-west states have O’dua Investment Ltd as well as the Dawn Commission. Nobody has died. South-south states have BRACED Commission. Nobody stopped them. It is even more exciting to me that Lagos and Kebbi states, poles apart, have co-operated on LAKE Rice production — in the same country where we say we can’t make progress until the constitution is thrown into the lake of fire! Some states are co-operating and making progress while others are making

excuses.

The 1999 constitution, we are told, encourages corruption because governors, deputy governors, presidents and vice-presidents are accorded immunity. But you know what? Sections 143 and 188 of the “worthless” constitution empower the legislature to impeach them for corruption.

Are the lawmakers doing their job? Should we blame the constitution if they don’t? In truth, ministers, commissioners and ex-governors, ex-deputy governors, ex-presidents and exvice-presidents do not enjoy any immunity, but how many of them have gone to jail for corruption? We need the 1963 constitution to jail them? We must blame the law for every failing, isn’t it?

Meanwhile, the “worthless” constitution stipulates that oil-producing states shall receive “not less than 13% derivation”. That means it can even be up to 100%. Not even the 1963 constitution gave such a blank cheque! The National Assembly can actually make a law taking derivation above 13%. But it may not happen because in revenue sharing, every extra percentage gained by an oil state is a loss to the rest. Many states will naturally oppose increasing it. And I am not talking about the north — the usual suspects — but even Ekiti, Osun, Enugu and Ebonyi lawmakers may not be well disposed to it. We saw how Cross River and Akwa Ibom fought in court over the issue of littoral states.

Sadly, the essence of Nigeria has been reduced to oil, hence the unending threat of “restructuring”. All discussions start and end with oil. But will oil boom last forever?

Who still builds the future on oil? Even the viability of states is often analysed solely on oil revenue. Yet all 36 states can be viable if the governors would use their brains properly.

There is nothing in the constitution compelling states to depend on federation allocation. In 1999, over 90% of Lagos revenue was from allocation. Using his brains, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, as governor, reduced dependency to 50% within eight years. Today, it is down to 30%. And, if I may point this out, this is under the same “military” constitution!

Ironically, I have my own issues with the 1999 constitution which I have highlighted in the past. I am certainly not opposed to restructuring.

I have written many times highlighting my own thoughts on this. I sympathise with genuine advocates of restructuring who are not motivated by politics and who have no hidden agenda. They may have an honest desire to see a better organised Nigeria. But I still insist that there are millions of untapped opportunities contained in the “worthless” 1999 constitution. There is no perfect constitution anywhere in the world — that is why there is always room for amendment. It is always a work in progress.

Most critically, there is always a big space for good governance, which cannot be decreed by any constitution. Proponents of a new constitution must recognise that it is not a magic wand. Nigeria is about the only country in the world blaming the constitution for its underdevelopment — rather than confronting the ineptitude and wickedness of their leaders at all levels. Rwanda and Cote d’Ivoire survived ethnic violence and are making tremendous progress through good leadership. Hong Kong, Singapore, South Korea and Taiwan all became developed through quality leadership. But in Nigeria, we blame the constitution for everything that is wrong with us.

And Four Other Things…

NOT YET UHURU The Supreme Court of Kenya has swiftly passed judgment on the 2017 presidential election and annulled the victory of President Uhuru Kenyatta. I am so ashamed of the Nigerian judiciary. A senior lawyer told me on Friday: “There was no theory of ‘substantial compliance’ to cover up electoral fraud, no unending motions by respondents’ counsel to keep the beneficiaries of electoral fraud in office for three years, and no unnecessary adjournments by the court. The petition was filed on August 18, 2017. Judgment was delivered on September 1, 2017. Petition was filed, heard and determined within two weeks!” Nigeria is always a bad example.

Shame.

CHARLY BOY SHOW Mrs Diezani Alison-Madueke, former minister of petroleum resources, must be enjoying the Charly Boy Show. The multitalented entertainer recently led a protest to the headquarters of EFCC in Abuja seeking the repatriation of the former minister from the UK to face trial in Nigeria. She could not have prayed for a better supporter! I wish the Charly Boy group was around in 2010 to agitate for the repatriation of Chief James Ibori, former governor of Delta state, from UK to Nigeria for trial. Unfortunately, Ibori was not that lucky: he was tried and jailed in the UK. If he had not fled Nigeria then, the courts would still be adjourning his trial till tomorrow. Comedy.

CAGING KANU Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, the Supreme Leader of Biafra, has become a fly on the balls of the federal government. Having been detained against court orders for nearly two years, he was finally released on bail in April 2017 under tough conditions. Now that he has apparently violated those conditions, federal government is back in court to get the bail quashed so that he can be re-arrested. The government wants to stamp its feet and show that nobody is above the law (apart from the Arewa youth leaders, I think) but re-arresting Kanu will only make him more popular among his followers and worsen the political tension in the land. What then? Chill.

‘HATE SPEECH’ The military is monitoring social media accounts of Nigerians for comments that could be “anti-government, anti-military or anti-security”, according to Major General John Enenche, director of defence information. He said the measure became necessary “in the wake of hate speeches and comments threatening Nigeria’s unity”. I am against hate speech and want perpetrators brought to book as it obtains in advanced countries, but this is a police matter to be treated in a court of law. As usual, Nigeria has a way of perverting whatever it copies from other countries. Makers of speeches that clearly promote ethnic and religious hate should be tried in a civil court. Order!

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