Saturday 21st April 2018

Attack on Senate: Nigeria’s Security Structure Needs Review, Says Ekweremadu Ohanaeze: Breach of security in an otherwise most-secured environment in the country gives cause for suspicion Damilola Oyedele in Abuja and Christopher Isiguzo in Enugu Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu has lamented that the attack on the Senate on Wednesday had further revealed a need for the review of Nigeria's security

structure which he deemed faulty.

This is as the Apex Igbo Sociocultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo expressed dismay over the invasion of the Senate by thugs, saying it had genuine concerns over the life and safety of Ekweremadu and other lawmakers and staff of

the National Assembly.

Ekweremadu said yesterday when he received the leadership of the Nigerian Political Science Association (NPSA) who paid a solidarity visit to the Senate, that the incident was a national embarrassment.

The Senate Chamber was invaded last Wednesday by thugs led by suspended Senator Ovie Omo Agege, with the mace snatched and carted away before it was recovered on Thursday.

Ekweremadu reiterated his condemnation of the attack.

“It shows a breakdown of security and it is a setback to Nigeria’s drive for foreign investment because no one would be ready to invest money in such a system. So, it is a lesson that we cannot keep doing the same thing with our security system and expect

a different result.

“It is also an irony that the people involved would organise armed bandits to rob the Senate of its mace since they understand the implication of what they have Continued on page 6

Malnutrition: 88,000 Children at Risk of Death in North-east, Says UNICEF ...Page 6 Saturday 21 April, 2018 Vol 23. No 8402

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Forex: IMF Seeks Unified Exchange Rate Regime Welcomes CBN’s FX intervention measures Apex bank injects $396 to boost retail SMIS Kunle Aderinokun, Obinna Chima and Funke Olaode in Washington DC, Ndubuisi Francis in Abuja The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has welcomed the stability recorded in Nigeria’s foreign exchange market, just as it urged

the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to continue to push for a unified exchange rate regime.

In a related development, the Minister of Finance, Kemi Adeosun, yesterday said that at 20 per cent Debt to Gross Domestic Product (GDP), Nigeria's foreign debt level does not pose any risk to

its financial stability and economy.

The Director of African Department, IMF, Mr. Abebe Aemro Selassie, spoke yesterday on Nigeria’s forex policy at a press briefing on developments in the region at the on-going IMFWorld Bank spring meetings in Washington DC.

Selassie noted that compared to where things were a year ago, inflation in Nigeria had continued to accelerate, dropping to 13.34 per cent as of March 2018, compared with about 19 per cent last year.

“Of course, things have improved significantly in Nigeria,” he said while responding to a

THISDAY question.

Selassie added: “This was due to the reforms that have been undertaken in the exchange rate regime as well as capital inflows due to the recovery in oil prices and the uncertainty ameliorating.

“Inflation has also been decelerated. These are all welcome

trends, but I do think that there remains a need to move towards having a more simplified exchange rate regime moving forward. That would also be important for the conduct of monetary policy.

Selassie also welcomed the Continued on page 6

…Adeosun: 20% Debt to GDP Not Toxic to Our Economy The Minister of Finance, Kemi Adeosun, has said that at 20 per cent Debt to Gross Domestic Product (GDP), Nigeria's foreign debt level does not pose any risk to its financial stability and economy.

While admitting that the concerns raised by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) on the attendant risk of rising foreign debts to emerging economies was legitimate, she argued that Nigeria was not among the countries referred to by Bretton Woods institution.

Adeosun, who fielded questions from journalists after the G-24 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors' Meeting, yesterday at the ongoing IMF-World Bank spring meetings in Washington DC, United

States, pointed out that the advice was actually directed at low income countries whose debts had risen to levels as high as 55 per cent of GDP. She clarified that Nigeria is a middle income country.

According to her, "The concern which has been expressed, which is a correct one, is about debt levels in low income countries, LIC as we call it. Nigeria is actually a middle income country. The concern that has been expressed is a legitimate one; those debt levels are at 55 per cent of GDP which is very high. Nigeria is at less than 20 per cent, so we are not actually one of the countries they are expressing Continued on page 6

Trump Accuses OPEC of Keeping Crude Oil Prices 'Artificially' High ...Pg. 8

TAKING STOCK...

L-R: Managing Director/CEO, Nigerian Breweries Plc. Mr. Jordi Borrut Bel; Chairman, Chief Kola Jamodu; and the Company Secretary/ Legal Adviser, Mr. Uaboy Agbebaku, at the 37th Annual General Meeting of Nigerian Breweries Plc. held at Muson Centre in Lagos SUNDAY ADIGUN yesterday

Police Commission Promotes Oshodi-Glover, Magu, Others … Page 55

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Malnutrition: 88,000 Children at Risk of Death in North-east, Says UNICEF Michael Olugbode, Maiduguri The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) yesterday lamented over what it called Severe Acute Malnutrition (SAM) in the North-east, warning that 88,000 children with SAM are at risk of death in the region, as they remained untreated.

UNICEF also said that about a million children between the age of six and 59 months in the

three states affected by insurgency - Borno, Adamawa and Yobe, are also acutely malnourished.

Speaking during the closing of a five-day Nutrition in Emergency Training in Maiduguri, the UNICEF Chief Field Officer in Borno state, Geoffrey Ijumba, said one in every five of 440,000 children with SAM is at risk of death if their malnutrition remained untreated.

He also lamented that 230,000

pregnant and breastfeeding women were also acutely malnourished in the troubled region.

Ijumba said: “Over 1.5 million people lack access to safe water in Borno, Adamawa and Yobe states. This has caused thousands of vulnerable children in the insurgency affected states to become acutely malnourished.

“This is after repeated bouts of diarrhea, including the outbreaks of cholera that recently claimed

65 lives.”

The UNICEF Chief Field Officer said good nutrition was the bedrock of child survival, health and development for any nation.

He said that only a few things had a more far-reaching effect on a child’s wellbeing or a nation’s long-term strength than nutrition.

Ijumba urged the 32 participants to complement the state’s efforts and muster the resources at their

disposal in favour of children.

He said well-nourished children grow better and are able to contribute to their communities.

“Well-nourished children are resilient in the face of diseases and disasters,” he said.

The UNICEF Chief Field Officer said the 940,000 acutely malnourished children should not be let down in the conflict affected states of Borno, Adamawa and Yobe, stating that the malnourished

children, are dependent on good judgement, sound policies and quick action for them to survive and thrive.

He however pledged that the UN children’s agency will continue towards the provision of preventative and curative nutrition activities.

He said: “We are also integrating some of our services for quick gains in the fight against malnutrition.”

MoIbrahim:Nigeria,OthersLose$2bnAnnually through Brain Drain in Health Sector Obinna Chima The latest report by the Mo Ibrahim Foundation has disclosed that Nigeria and other countries

in Africa loses about $2 billion annually through brain drain in the health sector The report stressed that no sound governance in Africa can

be achieved without strong public services.

The foundation stated this in its 2018 Ibrahim Forum Report titled: “Public Service in Africa.”

The report is expected to form discussion at the 2018 Ibrahim Forumholding in Rwanda next Saturday.

According the report, only three

FOREX: IMF SEEKS UNIFIED EXCHANGE RATE REGIME recently signed continental free trade agreement (CFTA) by some African leaders in Kigali, Rwanda, last month, saying it holds a lot of promise for the region.

Responding to a question on the likely effects on countries like Nigeria that opted out of the agreement, the IMF official said: “Trade agreements always have difficult issues and more domestic issues for and against but overall, we think that the CFTA is very important initiative which many African countries will benefit from “ He stressed the need to increase revenue mobilisation in the country, noting that the country should target a 10 per cent tax to GDP ratio: “Why this is necessary is to be able to address the tremendous investment needs in education, health and many other priorities

that the government has. So, it's not really revenue collection just for revenue collection sake but the development objectives that the government itself has laid out.

“The challenge in Nigeria has been a relatively small source of revenue. There has been less emphasis on tax collection.

So, enhancing tax collection is important.”

CBN Injects $396.18m to Boost Retail SMIS Meanwhile, in the continuing effort to guarantee liquidity in the foreign exchange market (FX), the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) yesterday injected $396.18 million into the retail Secondary Market Intervention Sales (SMIS) segment of the foreign exchange market.

According to figures obtained from the CBNs, the released sum is meant to meet obligations in the

agricultural, airlines, petroleum products and raw materials and machinery sectors.

Confirming the figures, the Bank's Acting Director, Corporate Communications Department, Isaac Okorafor said that interventions by the CBN in both the retail and wholesale sectors of the FX market were targeted primarily at ensuring liquidity in the market as well as encouraging production and trade, particularly now that the focus is on the promotion of local content.

Okorafor further explained that with the countrys reserves nearing $50 billion, the CBN was even more determined to sustain the gains recorded through the various policy options the Bank took in the course of stemming the depletion of the external reserves and steering Nigeria out of recession.

Beyond ensuring liquidity in the inter-bank sector of the market, he said the CBN was committed to supporting efforts aimed growing the economy and further diversifying it away from oil.

Despite rates closing at N362/$1 yesterday, Okorafor, insisted that the market would remain stable and that the CBN would ensure it maintains the countrys external reserves in order to safeguard the international value of the Naira.

The Central Bank of Nigeria in its last SMIS on March 23, 2018, intervened with $339.89, while also intervening in the inter-bank forex market to the tune of $210,000,000, comprising $100 million for the wholesale segment and $55 million for both the Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and invisibles segment on April 18, 2018.

…ADEOSUN: 20% DEBT TO GDP NOT TOXIC TO OUR ECONOMY concerns about. However, we will continue to manage our debts very responsibly. We are at 20 per cent; we don’t intend to grow it aggressively. The rate of debt accumulation is slowing down as we are replacing debts with revenue and refinancing our debts.

“So it's a good advice for all, but we are not a low income country by the classification. We are actually a middle income country. We are not one of those they are expressing concerns about but we are listening.

We don’t need to become one of the categories of what they are expressing concerns about, the countries that they are concerned about has ratio of 55 per cent.”

The finance minister was reacting to the warning by the IMF through its Financial Counselor and Director of the Monetary and Capital Markets Department, Tobias Adrian, last Wednesday that rising foreign debts remained a big risk to financial stability. “The debts that are accumulated quickly are deteriorating and could pose financial stability crisis in the future in emerging markets," he said.

However, when Adeosun was asked if “listening” means Nigeria will not take loans anymore, she said: “No. That we are listening means it is good advice for all.

You listen to good advice, manage and sustain it, which is what we are doing. Increase our revenue, which is what we are doing

and get our economy growing.

Improve the tax base so that we can continue to invest in infrastructure because that’s what will lead to industrialization and that is what will lead to job growth.”

Addressing the issue of human capital development, Adeosun said: “It is a huge priority for a country with a huge population like ours. What we need to do is to be more focused, so that we really understand how much we are investing. It is not really about the amount you are investing; it is about the outcomes. If we continue to measure education by how much we spend, we will always get the wrong result. It is not how much we spend in school; it is what do they come out learning?

Responding to a question on the N2 trillion debt service payments, Adeosun said: “It is expected if you look at the framework that sat behind the Economic Growth and Recovery Plan, ERGP. I don't like to look back but if you look at the situation we inherited in 2015, there was a collapse in our major source of income, growth had curved, reserves were not there and debts were rising.

“There were two options: One was to cut back, lay people off and wait for oil prices to recover or be more aggressive, expand your budget, take on more debts and invest in infrastructure in hope that you will get growth going

to develop more revenue. Now, step one and two and three of that have been done. We've expanded our budget; we pumped money into the economy. We made sure recession was not prolonged. We are now back into growth. We need to accelerate that growth and focus on revenue mobilization, which in turn will reduce our debt pressure.

That was the strategy we outlined and that was what we executed so I don't agree that N2.3 trillion is a large part; it's relative to what?

If we were still in recession, we'd have far bigger problems.

“I think what people haven't realised is how much work had to be done to make sure that that recession was as short as possible because that would have caused real pain for the people. Some of the ministers that I was in meeting with, they are still in recession; they haven't been able to get out of it yet. That means real pain for a long time. We shortened it, we had to borrow to do so and we make no apologies for that. That was the right thing to do. We invested N1.3 trillion in infrastructure, in capital projects that will support industralisation growth and we are starting to see the investments coming back in. Investors are saying we are opening up here and this is good news for Nigeria. So, I think we are on the right path."

Adeosun argued that there was no need for World Bank to

help monitor Nigeria's debts since the country had an institution already doing that. "I don't think it’s necessary to have the World Bank monitor our debts and I'll tell you why. We have the Debt Management Office, works on best practices basis; puts out data regularly on our debt levels. We have the economic management team monitoring our capital projects; we have set up monitoring in ministry of budget and national planning which is separate from finance.

“Who do monitoring and evaluation and then we have all of you to go out there on behalf of Nigeria. They don't know Nigeria as much as you do to say where are these capital projects? When we were doing the Sukuk, you monitored it and in one case where the contractor was not there, it was the press that said there was no contractor on this road and we were able to follow up. I think every Nigerian has become a monitoring agent of the government as far as capital projects are concerned and that's very good.

“That's what should happen in a democracy because it’s everybody's money and its everybody's country.

We don't need the World Bank, if they want to come and help us, great, but we don't need them. We have 195 million eyes watching the government and that's exactly what they should do.”

countries - Libya, Mauritius and Tunisia, have at least one doctor per 1,000 people.

It noted that covering the void left by public services, private security, private education, and private health were rising exponentially, with the risk of widening inequalities on the continent Furthermore, it showed that five out of the 10 African countries with the largest public health expenditures as a percentage of total government expenditure were also among the 10 countries

with the highest share of external financing of their total health expenditure In addition, it pointed out that between 30 and 50 per cent of Africa’s total tax liability remained uncollected.

“Personal Safety is the most deteriorated of the 14 sub-categories in the Ibrahim Index of African Governance, over the past decade.

“Twenty-two per cent of Africa’s population who had contact with a public service in 2015 said they paid a bribe, mostly to the police and the courts.

ATTACK ON SENATE: NIGERIA’S SECURITY STRUCTURE NEEDS REVIEW done," he added.

Ekweremadu emphasised that the legislative arm of government would ensure the plotters and perpetrators were brought to book.

“As a parliament, we will ensure that this does not happen again and insist that all the actors behind the drama are brought to book," he said.

He also called on the association to help the nation to rethink its governance and security structures in line with other federal systems.

The President of the NPSA, Prof.

Aloysius-Michaels Okolie, in his remarks condemned the invasion of the Senate.

Ohanaeze said it was still at loss as to how the thugs were able to break into the National Assembly situated in the most secured area in the country.

Its position was contained in a press statement issued on behalf of the President-General, Chief Nnia Nwodo by his Media Adviser, Chief Emeka Atamah.

Ohanaeze said: “The breach of security in an otherwise mostsecured environment in Nigeria gives cause for suspicion. We know for certain that there are several security checks before one can access the National Assembly Complex. We are also aware that it takes the motion for the suspension of the Order 17 of the Senate Standing Rule before anybody outside the Senators and chamber staff is allowed access into the Senate Chamber.

It is also common knowledge that the National Assembly Complex is surrounded by the Presidential Villa, headquarters of the Department of State Security (DSS), the Office of the National Security Adviser, among others. So, how on earth did the assailants escape with the mace?

"We watched on live television and the other footage of the incident how the invaders moved

menacingly towards the Deputy President before he was whisked away to safety by his security guards. With a hindsight of the attempt on Ekwremadu's life in November 2015 which the security agencies refused to investigate or say a word about, we have genuine cause to believe that the attack on the Senate chamber by armed men on a day the senate was in session and with Ekweremadu presiding had more sinister motives than met the eye.

“The 1999 Constitution (as amended) is very clear that the primary purpose of government is the welfare of citizens and the protection of their lives and property.

We wish to state unequivocally that with all the legitimate instruments for the protection of lives and property, including those of the lawmakers and the parliament, firmly in the hands of the executive arm of government, Ndigbo and the world know whom to hold responsible should any harm befall the Senator or other lawmakers and parliamentary staff.

“Senator Ekweremadu is just the one eye with which Ndigbo are seeing in this administration that have unabashedly sidetracked the South East. He is the only Igbo man occupying a principal and non-appointive position in the top hierarchy of the Federal Government today and we believe that there should be limits to political rascality.”

Ohanaeze said that although Ekweremadu was attacked in the media by some government functionaries and agencies when he warned a few weeks back that the nation’s democracy was receding and derailing, the invasion of the National Assembly in broad daylight had further proved him right.

“Unfortunately, the Nigerian political class appears to have learnt nothing and forgotten nothing”, Ohanaeze added.

T H I S D AY ˾ SATURDAY APRIL 21, 2018

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FOR SOUND EDUCATION...

L-R: Former Governor of Ondo State and Summit Chairman, Dr. Olusegun Mimiko; Director General, Lagos State Office of Education Quality Assurance, Mrs. Ronke Soyombo; Senior Associate of Conrad Clark, Hosea Boman, and Angelina Ikeako of Golden Links Educational Consultant. at the Education Risk and Governance Summit, in Lagos, on Friday

Appeal Court: Regulatory Agencies Cannot Impose Fines without Recourse to Court Davidson Iriekpen The Court of Appeal in Calabar yesterday struck down the powers of regulatory agencies to impose fines without recourse to the courts.

In its judgment in favour of ExxonMobil in an appeal filed by the National Oil Spill Detection & Response Agency (NOSDRA) against the decision of the Justice Ijeoma Ojukwu of the Federal High Court in Uyo, the Court of Appeal struck down section 6(3) of the NOSDRA Act empowering it to impose fines on organisations it is regulating, saying it was in clear violation of the 1999 Constitution.

Justice Ojukwu’s decision delivered on May 16, 2017 on the motion filed

by Mobil against NOSDRA at the lower court was to the effect that the imposition of fines by regulatory agencies, as was done in this case by NOSDRA, without due recourse to the courts, was illegal and did not accord with the rules of natural justice and fairness.

Dissatisfied with the judgment, NOSDRA appealed the decision.

But upholding the submissions of counsel to Mobil, Prof. Fabian Ajogwu (SAN), as canvassed by Mr. Ituah Imhanze, and affirming the ruling of the lower court, the Court of Appeal in Calabar in a unanimous decision, held that by the imposition of penalty on Mobil, without due recourse to the courts, NOSDRA had “acted in a judicial capacity which they were

not imbued with” under the 1999 Constitution.

In the lead judgment delivered by Justice Chioma Nwosu-Iheme, she held that by fining Mobil, NOSDRA constituted itself into a court with judicial or quasi-judicial powers, when in fact the law creating it did not donate such jurisdiction to it.

The judge noted that by the imposition of the fine, the federal agency acted in a judicial capacity which they were not imbued with under the constitution, and by so doing, it became a judge in its own cause, the complainant as well as the judge.

She submitted that penalties or fines were imposed as punishment for an offence or violation of the law, adding that the power, as well as competence

to come to that finding, belongs to the courts. She said that NOSDRA was not clothed with the power to properly exercise that function in view of the law creating it.

The jurist held that since Section 6(6) of the Constitution in Section vests judicial powers on the courts, “sentence can safely be pronounced after a conviction for an offence has been made by a court of competent jurisdiction.”

Saying that it is very well known in law that a fine is a criminal sanction, She cited the judgment delivered by Justice Abba Aji of the same court in the Abdullahi vs. Kano State (2015) LPELR – 25928 (CA) where he defined fine as a payment of money ordered by a court from a person who has

been found guilty of violating law and that a fine it may be specified as the punishment for an offender, usually a minor offence, but could also be specified and used as an option to imprisonment for major crimes or a complement to other punishments specified for such crimes.

Justice Nwosu-Iheme averred: “I must here underline the fact that awarding a fine is a judicial act and it is the sole prerogative of a court of law under Section 6 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended). No other organisations or bodies can usurp that power. Any law that would consign to anybody other than the courts the power to award fine is unconstitutional.”

She held that the courts will not allow any authority to act ultra vires its powers under the Constitution, adding that Sections 1 and 6 of the 1999 Constitution empower the courts to declare any Act of the National Assembly inconsistent with the provisions of the Constitution, null and void.

The panel consequently, restated the power of the courts under the constitution to declare any Act of the National Assembly that is inconsistent with the constitution as null and void and pronounced that the offending provisions of the NOSDRAAct which provided the basis for the arbitrary imposition of fine by the federal agency constitutes a lacuna in the NOSDRA Act.

18yrs After, Supreme Court Voids Mobil's Trump Accuses OPEC of Keeping Crude Sack of 860 Nigerians Oil Prices “Artificially”High Alex Enumah inAbuja

The Supreme Court on Friday voided the sack of about 860 Nigerian employees of Mobil Producing Nigeria Unlimited, employed in the year 2000 as security officers, but named by the company as Supernumerary Police officers (SPY).

The five man panel of justices of the apex court in a unanimous judgment, held that it was illogical and without legal backing for Mobil to have employed the Nigerians and sought to off-load them to the Nigeria Police through the back door.

The apex court voided the termination of the appointment of the Nigerian employees yesterday in Abuja while delivering judgement on an appeal marked: SC/33/2010 by Mobil Producing Nigeria Unlimited.

The oil company had approached

the apex court to reverse the 2009 Court of Appeal judgment which upheld the Nigerian workers' claim to being employees of the company.

In the lead judgment delivered

by Justice John Inyang Okoro, the Supreme Court upheld the decision of the lower court which agreed that the Nigerians, led by Okon Johnson, were and are still Mobil's staff and should be accorded all benefits.

In the earlier judgment, the appellate court further ordered Mobil to pay the Nigerian staff all outstanding allowances and salaries from when they were purportedly variously disengaged.

"The summary of the facts is that the 1st to 15 respondents were employed by the appellants as Supernumerary Police officers (SPY) and issued with appointment letters.

"Thereafter, it (appellants) tried to off-load them (the 1st to 15

respondents) to the Nigeria Police, a decision the Nigerian employees rejected.

"The court below upheld their argument that they are not police officers, but staff of Mobil Nigeria Unlimited.

"So Mobil appealed to this court.

And after we have painstakingly looked at all the exhibits before us, including the appointment letters and we have also looked at the Police Act as it relates to the mode of appointment of SPYs, we agree with the lower court that the respondents were employed by Mobil Nigeria Unlimited as their security staff.

"There is nothing in the Police Act, which gives Mobil the authority to appoint security officers and then, off-load them to the Nigeria Police.

"If the Police Council wanted to appoint SPYs it would have done in accordance with the Police Act, which it failed to do.

Ejiofor Alike with agency reports Crude oil prices stabilised yesterday after an earlier slide driven by comments by the United States President Donald Trump, who accused the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) of “keeping oil prices artificially very high.”

But responding from Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, OPEC secretary general, Mohammad Barkindo, stated that the United States’ oil and gas industry was a beneficiary of the cartel’s efforts to restore stability in the oil market.

In a tweet, Trump said the cartel’s pricing cycle “will not be accepted” as there is no scarcity of oil supply to warrant such “high prices.”

“Looks like OPEC is at it again.

With record amounts of Oil all over the place, including the fully loaded ships at sea, Oil prices are artificially Very High! No good and will not be accepted,” Trump reportedly tweeted.

However, Barkindo said OPEC

members were friends of the United States and had a vested interest in its growth and prosperity.

He added that the cartel’s efforts had restored stability in the oil market for the benefit of the United States and other producers.

“We in OPEC pride ourselves as friends of the United States who have vested interest in their growth, development and prosperity,” Barkindo said, adding that OPEC, non-OPEC deal “has not only arrested the decline but rescued the oil industry from imminent collapse and is now on course to restore stability on a sustainable basis in the interest of producers, consumers and the global economy”.

Global benchmark, Brent crude oil futures were down six cents at $73.72 per barrel while West Texas Intermediate crude futures for delivery in June, the most active U.S. contract, were down two cents at $68.31.

The May WTI contract, which expires on Friday, CLc1 gained three cents at $68.29.

Since early 2017, the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and its allies have curbed output in the hopes of eliminating a global oil glut.

"We are doing our role to correct the market and the market, as we said, is not yet balanced," UAE energy minister Suhail al-Mazrouei said in response to the tweet, adding that prices were not artificially high.

OPEC Secretary-General Mohammad Barkindo said members were friends of the United States and had a vested interest in its growth and prosperity.

Earlier this week, both Brent and WTI hit their highest levels since November 2014, at $74.75 and $69.56 per barrel respectively, buoyed by geopolitical risk and a tightening market. For the week, both benchmarks were on track for a gain of over one per cent.

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Governor Al-Makura and Nasarawa Killings Who Will Save

O

ne name you can’t miss out on the list of President Muhammadu Buhari’s legion of sycophants is Governor Umaru Al-Makura of Nasarawa State. This governor is so obsessed with the President to the extent of persistently stabbing his own people in the back. While the governors of Taraba and Benue states have been screaming to high heaven over killings by herdsmen in their domains, AlMakura finds it difficult to challenge Buhari to perform his constitutional responsibility of protecting lives and property in his state.

This governor simply looks the other way while Fulani militia massacres his people.

Surely, the hapless people of Nasarawa State can no longer tolerate this absurdity. It was no surprise when this governor’s convoy was on Tuesday pelted with stones by some Internally Displaced Persons at Agwatashi, Obi Local Government Area, during his visit to the camp.

Following the attacks by Fulani militia on many communities in Keana, Obi and Awe local government areas last week, thousands of Nasarawa State citizens were displayed.

32 persons were killed in Agwatashi alone.

Al-Makura visited the camp with security chiefs but attempts by the governor to address the IDPs were rebuffed. The youths in the camp were defiant and forced the governor to leave, pelting him with stones. The police had to disperse the IDPs with tear gas. The Nasarawa governor added insult to the injury suffered by his people, by declaring that the problems in some of the affected communities were self-inflicted. “If people can conduct themselves in this way, then you know that there is more to it than what is happening.

If you want to take laws into your own hands, you will be left to defend yourselves,” Al-Makura remarked cynically.

Suleiman Adokwe, who represents Nasarawa South in the Senate, has every reason to be disappointed in Al-Makura and the federal government. He paints a pathetic picture of the dreadful, professionally-coordinated and simultaneous carnage across Awe, Obi, Keana and Doma local government areas thus: “Throughout the weekend and up to this moment, herdsmen have unleashed mayhem on the people of the senatorial district, leaving many dead, numerous wounded and creating hundreds of thousands of IDPs. Their victims were largely the Tiv-speaking ethnic nationalities with a reported death toll of 32 persons.

“The tragedy lies in the fact that for four days running, this mayhem continued unhindered, unchecked and unstopped by any arm of the law and security enforcement agencies. It is shocking that in Nigeria, with all the security forces, a whole senatorial district is being punished by militia and no action was taken by the government. This is a sad

Al-Makura

commentary.

“This country is gradually falling into anarchy and we need to wake up to our responsibilities. It is no wonder that very eminent citizens have urged Nigerians to defend themselves because their lives are in their own hands and no longer in the hands of the Nigerian security forces. I am very emotional on this matter. I am not one given to emotion very easily, but what I have gone through this weekend is very horrifying; it is very distressing and sad. It is as if we are in a lawless society where life is brutish, where there is absence of state powers. We call on the Federal Government to stop this carnage.”

Senator Barnabas Gemade concurs, saying: “This country is becoming a state without control; it is becoming a state that is experiencing anarchy. It is a state in which we have seen ethnic cleansing... It is a shame that a sitting government could watch criminality go to the level that we have seen it today; rather than rise and take very decisive steps against it, we embark on denials and simply shield this evil by just explaining with flimsy excuses that these are communal clashes in those communities. Indeed, the carnage in Nasarawa South affects mainly people of my ethnic group, who are in large population in Nasarawa. It is the same kind of killing that is going on in Goma, Logo and Gwer West local government areas in Benue.

One would have expected a sober and pragmatic reaction from this governor of Nasarawa State, considering the persistent and horrendous attacks on his people by the prickly Fulani herdsmen. Unfortunately Al-Makura remains a tangled man. His reign as governor has brought endless pain to the people of Nasarawa State. Aside Al-Makura’s lethargic response to the Fulani militia killings, virtually everybody in the state is in

NEMA DG, Maihaja, Please, Step Aside So many elites are still feeding fat on Internally Displaced Persons in the North-east under Buhari’s watch. One of them is strongly suspected to be the current Director-General of the National Emergency Management Agency, Mustapha Maihaja. Stories emanating from the ongoing investigation of NEMA’s activities by the House of Representatives are not palatable. The House alleges that it has uncovered a N3.1 billion contract scandal in NEMA under Maihaja’s watch. The money was released to NEMA for procurement of rice for IDPs in the North-east. But supply contracts were alleged to have been shabbily awarded to companies without legal qualifications to get contracts from the federal government. Two of the rice contracts were said to have been awarded to companies that did not meet standard pre-qualification conditions.

In separate reports adopted by the committee, the FIRS claimed that the two companies had no tax clearance certificates, and had not paid any tax to the federal government as required by law before they can be awarded any contracts.

The committee also reported that only 110 out of 271 containers of rice donated to

Maihaja

IDPs by the Chinese government had so far been cleared at the port since July last year and took a swipe at the NEMA DG for paying over N800 million as demurrage on 110 rice containers, allegedly caused by the inefficiency of NEMA under Maihaja’s leadership.

The Committee was angry with NEMA

anguish because of his crooked government.

For example, Nasarawa State civil servants and their families have been going through hardship in the last three years because of irregular payment of salaries and other entitlements. Al-Makura is unperturbed by the suffering of these star-crossed workers.

The NLC and TUC at the national level must step in to save these unfortunate Nigerians from the pangs of this governor.

Many will not forget in a hurry how Nasarawa civil servants were brutally suppressed on August 5, 2016, when they went to the Government House, Lafia, to protest unilateral and illegal cut in their salaries by Al-Makura. They were led by the National President of the Nigeria Labour Congress, Ayuba Wabba. Unfortunately, while fighting for their rights within the precincts of the laws of our land, they were viciously attacked by policemen stationed at the Government House. Their offence was that they dared to stage a protest at the Government House. At the end of the cruel attack by the policemen, one of the workers, Ali Umbugadu, a staff of the state’s Ministry of Education was killed.

Musa Saliyu, a staff of the Finance Department, Doma Local Government Area of the state, survived with gunshot wounds; Mrs. Salamatu Mohammed, a judicial worker was badly injured while Mr. Rabiu Mohammed, a journalist with the Nigerian Newsday, a state-owned media outfit, was unconscious for several hours. Several other civil servants were badly injured. The policemen read Al-Makura’s body language perfectly and moved against the workers. The blood of Umbugadu remains on the head of Al-Makura.

Al-Makura also assaults local media. He is extremely intolerant of criticism and everready to destroy anybody that points to his failings. This was exactly what Al-Makura did to Breeze 99.9 FM, a private radio station based in Lafia. The building housing the radio station was demolished with a rickety excuse. This station has been very critical of Al-Makura’s activities. The Nasarawa Urban Development Board demolished the building, citing alleged violation of land approval laws. It also claimed that its action became necessary because the station’s facilities posed a health hazard to residents living close to it. This story was obviously made up. The station’s Executive Director, Dr. Nawani Aboki, noted that the demolition was swiftly carried out without requesting for approval documents from the owners. He added that Al-Makura was angry because the station consistently gave voices to all shades of opinions, especially oppressed civil servants.

There is so much suffering in Al-Makura’s Nasarawa with decaying infrastructure. Hospitals, schools and other public institutions are in a mess. This state has been turned into a personal estate by the governor. Al-Makura’s wives and children run the show here.

Residents of Anka LG?

The anguish in over 20 communities in Anka Local Government Area of Zamfara State has been on for over one year. Hundreds of people have been killed by bandits without appropriate response from security agencies. The communities worse affected include Bawar Daji, Kuru-kuru and Jarkuka. It is excruciating. Residents have been fleeing their homes in droves to avoid being attacked by the bandits. As usual, this government has failed to perform its constitutional responsibility of protecting lives and property in these communities. The Emir of Anka, Muhammad Attahiru Ahmed, said many villages in his domain have become ghost villages, with many fleeing into the town centre. Those still staying back are now living in fear following incessant attacks by bandits. The Emir who spoke through the Waziri of Anka Emirate, Muhammad Inuwa, lamented that the bandits again attacked Kuru-kuru and Jarkuka villages last week, killing 26 innocent people with threat of more attacks.

“These bandits usually announce the schedule for their attacks before visiting any of the targeted village in their list. This is why Anka Local Government’s headquarters has become overpopulated. Security agencies fail to protect the people but only provide security for the burial of those killed,” the Emir lamented.

Federal government’s failure to tackle banditry in Ankar has left him depressed. Emir Attahiru Ahmed is in search of a miracle and has since ordered a three-day mourning and fasting to seek God’s intervention in his domain.

Federal government’s lethargy aside, Governor Abdulaziz Yari of Zamfara State has been of little help to the devastated people of Ankar.

Globetrotting Yari is hardly in Zamfara. His frequent trips abroad are evidently impacting negatively on the day-to-day running of the government. That was why elder statesman, Saidu Dansadau, petitioned Buhari, asking him to declare a state of emergency in Zamfara State. Yari’s tenure is riddled with controversy. Many will not forget in a hurry how he viciously killed moves by legislators boss over his claim that documents relating to impeach him last year. He simply to the rice donation by the Chinese had got operatives of the Department of been scattered and tampered with by State Service to harass the leaders of unknown persons. the lawmakers. As Chairman of the The allegations against Maihaja are Nigerian Governors Forum, Yari is weighty. He is struggling to account for the N5.9 billion spent on food intervention notorious for doling out fees to ghost in the North-east; another N3.1 billion for consultants. food intervention in the same North-east; N1.6 billion spent on Libya returnees; N1.6 billion spent on flood intervention for 16 states; the payment of about N800 million demurrage on the rice donated by the Chinese government and the N10 billion received from Ecological Funds.

It is very sad to note that tons of rice meant for hunger-stricken IDPs in Northeast had been abandoned at Lagos Port by NEMA. I am particularly pained by this.

Ineptitude aside, Maihaja has apparently been exploiting loopholes in the Public Procurement Act to the detriment of the country. His explanations about how NEMA expended about N23 billion in one year on emergency activities is uninspiring. For me, Maihaja should be man enough to step aside as NEMA DG. This critical agency of government requires an honest, pragmatic and selfless leader.

Emir Attahiru Ahmed

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ ͺ͹˜ ͺ͸͹Ͷ

10

NEWS

In Brief Applications for Nigerian Passports Drop

ApplicationforNigerianinternationalpassportsdeclinedby80.43percent in 2017, the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), has said. The NBS, in its Immigration Statistics for 2017 stated that a total of 720,958 passport applicationswerereceivedin2017comparedto3,684,288in2016.According to the report, “This represents about 80.43% negative growth. 127,882 of the 2017 figure are minor, 544,473 are adults and the remaining 48,603 are senior citizen." A total of 152,163 passports were issued at the foreign missions in 2017 as against 172,824 issued in 2016 just as the number of visa issuance at the foreign missions stood at 115,150 . The NBS said: “This represents11.95%negativegrowth.Thenumberoflostandstolenpassports re-issuedin2017wasputat13,450,”itadded.It,however,disclosedthatthe Immigration Service, generated N35,724,482,338.26 in 2017 as against N36,175,778,205.77 locally generated revenue in 2016.

N21.5bn Loan Tears Niger Groups Apart

FAST-TRACKING DEVELOPMENT...

L-R: Commissioner Budget and Economic Planning, Mark Okoye; Commissioner for Agriculture, Afam; Commissioner for Arts, Tourism and Culture, Mbanefo Sally Mbanefo; Chief of Staff to the Governor, Primus Odili; Governor of Anambra State, Chief Willie Obiano; Chairman of Youth Empowerment, Entrepreneurship and Creative Economy Council, Dr Nicky Okoye, Mr Kene Mkparu; Mr Obi Asika and Commissioner for Youths Empowerment and Creative Economy, Bonaventure Enemali during inaguration of council...yesterday

Killers in Ozubulu Church Massacre Demanded $1m to Shelve Further Attack, Says Witness David-Chyddy Eleke in Awka A witness in the ongoing court case over the killing of worshippers in a church in Ozubulu, Ekwusigo local government of Anambra State, Mr. Nkwado Onyeka has said that the perpetrators of the killing were demanding $1m to stop further attack on the community.

Onyeka yesterday told the Court that two suspects, Gozila and Afam who had owned up to the crime and were still being held in South African prison had demanded the sum as part of their conditions to stop further killings in the town.

The witness, Onyeka who was the former President of Ozubulu Development Union (ODU), South Africa branch revealed to the court that the gang was being led by one Chinedu Akpunonu, and was

responsible for the killing of his wife, Mrs. Onyeka, as well as six prominent people from Ozubulu in South Africa.

The Ozubulu church massacre which happened in 2017 had been said to have emanated from a drug war between indigenes of Ozubulu, who reside in South Africa.

During yesterday's sitting, Onyeka told the court that the gang had threatened that they would continue the killing until the Ozubulu people whom they claimed were responsible for their imprisonment effected their release.

While being led in evidence by Ezeuko (SAN) for the prosecution, Onyeka said, “Within a short time, one man Obinna Obijeme who gave witness against Akpunonu at Igwe’s palace was shot dead in South Africa.

When we heard this, we called a meeting and invited Chinedu Akpunonu,

Aloysius Ikegwuonu and 20 others.

“In the meeting, I was pleading with Chinedu Akpunonu because his gang members in prison, Dozila and Afam have claimed that they killed Obinna. We concluded that Chief Aloysius Ikegwuonu, Emeka Obi, Chinedu Akpunonu, Fidelis Nwanya and our patron will go to prison to see Afam and Dozila to know how to stop the killing.

"The next day, Fidelis Nwanya called me and said that Afam and Dozila said they do not want to see Chinedu Akpunonu and Aloysius Ikegwuonu, that it was only Fidelis Nwanya and I that they would want to see.

“Fidelis Nwanya made me to understand, that Afam and Dozila said they would have visiting in November, and already I had booked December to travel to America. So in

December I travelled to New York, my wife and son dropped me at the airport. On landing at America, at the airport I switched on my phone and the first call that I got was that my wife has been short dead in our office which I share with her. I joined the same flight back to South Africa.

“All Ozubulu people were calling me to sympathise with me but Chinedu Akpunonu did not. Our people were worried and were asking what to do next and I said they should go ahead with our earlier plan to visit Afam and Dozila in prison but that I will not go with them.

"They went to the prison to see them and reported that Dozila and Afam swore that they would continue to kill Ozubulu people except they were given $1 million. That it was Ozubulu people that put them in prison."

Police Raid Criminal Hideouts, International Criminal Court President Visits Nigeria, Silent on IPOB Recover 50 Guns in Bayelsa Emmanuel Addeh in Yenagoa

The police in Bayelsa State said Saturday that they had made a major breakthrough in the fight against crime in the state with the recovery of about 50 high-calibre weapons from suspected criminals.

Commissioner of police in the state, Mr. Don Awunah, told journalists during a press briefing at the command headquarters in Yenagoa that the various raids followed a directive by the Inspector General of Police (IG), Ibrahim Idris who was worried by the unlawful possession of small arms and light weapons.

He added that after a careful analysis, it was discovered that these weapons fuel and drive violent crimes, noting that the IG directed immediate mop-up of weapons in possession of suspected militias, bandits, Vigilante groups, and other related groups.

Awunah, while displaying the weapons before journalists said the command inaugurated a task force headed by the Deputy Commissioner of Police Operations, DCP Andy Amiengheme, for recovery of illegal weapons.

“The Task Force immediately embarked on systematic crack

down on violent criminals throughout the State, which led to the recovery of arms and ammunition on display”, he said.

Within the past one month, Awunah disclosed that Two AK-47 rifles, four pump action guns, one LAR rifle, one Berretta pistol, a Miami revolver pistol, 29 locally made pistols, two locally made cut-to-size Double barrel guns were recovered.

Others included one locally made double barrel pistol, five locally made revolver pistols, two locally made cut to size guns, one wooden gun, 58 unexpended cartridges and 9mm ammunition. “ I wish to use this medium to warn those in possession of any category of the prohibited/ illegal firearms and ammunitions, specified under chapter F.28 LFN 2004 fire arms act should submit same to the Police Command within the grace window period of one week from today”, he said.

He listed the prohibited weapons as artillery, apparatus for the discharge of any explosives of gas diffusing projectile, rocket weapons, bombs and grenades, machine guns and machine pistols.

Bayo Akinloye

The President of the International Criminal Court in The Hague, Chile Eboe-Osuji, who concluded his official visit to Nigeria last week, has called for the federal government’s support to fight against impunity “for the gravest crimes but was silent on the petitions of the Indigenous People of Biafra and the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project.

The ICC was petitioned last year to investigate the alleged killings, torture and human rights abuses of IPOB members by soldiers of the Nigerian Army.

Also in 2017, SERAP had petitioned the international court to consider the “allegations of widespread systematic and large-scale corruption in the electricity sector since the return of democracy in 1999 and under the governments of former presidents Olusegun Obasanjo, Umaru Yar’Adua, and Goodluck Jonathan,” whether they amount to crimes against humanity.

According to a statement made available to THISDAY by the ICC, Eboe-Osuji, who was in Nigeria from April 10 to 13, met with Vice

President Yemi Osinbajo, Senate President Bukola Saraki, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara, Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu, the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, Solicitor General of the Federation, Dayo Apata, and other senior government officials.

“The ICC president expressed gratitude for Nigeria’s strong commitment to the court, which was reaffirmed by the senior authorities during the meetings held. President Eboe-Osuji underlined that the active support of States is crucial in re-energising the mission of the ICC, of which Nigeria is a founding and important member.

He recalled that victims are at the heart of the Court’s mandate, which aims to provide justice to those who have suffered the worst atrocities, as well as protect populations from future crimes.

“President Eboe-Osuji further emphasised that the Court is keen to work together with states in Africa to bolster the fight against impunity for the gravest international crimes, and he hoped to count on Nigeria’s support in taking that process forward,” the statement said.

Youth groups in Niger State are divided over how the state government intends to utilise the N21.5bn Sukuk loan it applied for. While one of the youth groups accused the state government of skewing the utilisation of the fund in favour of one of the senatorial districts in the state, the other grouproseindefenceoftheadministrationsaying"ithasbeenfairtoallthe zones".ApartfromsayingthattheSukukloanwasdesirabletoacceleratethe infrastructuraldevelopmentofthestatethe"NigerStateCoalitioninDefence ofTransformation"inastatementonFridaycommendedGovernorAbubakar SaniBelloforsharingtheprojectsequallyamongthethreesenatorialzones.

Muhammed Muhammed who signed the statement said "a careful look at these shows an even spreading of projects across the three political zones of the state". Apart from the Sukuk, Muhammad Muhammed praised the stategovernmentforseekingalternativesourceoffundingofinfrastructural projects in the entire state. He specifically mentioned the $266m IDB loan for the construction of the Bida- Minna road and the $330m Kuwait fund toconstructtheIbrahimBadamasiBabangidaUniversityTeachinghospital at Lapai.

CommunityThreatensDistruptionofOilProduction

ThepeopleofNembecommunityandhosttoOPL29inNembeLocalGovernment area of Bayelsa State have threatened to disrupt the oil productions byAITEOEasternE&Poveritsfailuretomeetitsobligationssinceacquiring theoilblockfouryearsago.Thecompanyacquiredtheoilblockfromthejoint venture of Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) and Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) in 2014 with an agreement on community participation in its operations. But the people of Nembe under the aegisofLandlordsofNembecityandOPL29inBayelsaStatehaveenjoined President Muhammadu Buhari to prevail on AITEO Eastern E&P to fulfill its obligations to the area, alleging that the firm had failed to keep to its promise after it acquired the oil block and facilities in the area. In an open letter to President Muhammadu Buhari and made available to newsmen in Warri yesterday, Counsel to the Nembe city Landlords of Nembe creek and OPL 29, Mr. Oguaju Dike said there was urgent need for the President tointervenenotingthattheyouthsoftheareawerealreadythreateningto vandalize oil facilities in the area due to the alleged failure of the oil firm to keep its promise to the area.

Boko Haram Terrorists Renounce Group

A Boko Haram commander, Doctor and five others on Friday renounced theterroristgroupandpresentedthemselvesforthe“de-radicalizationand rehabilitation” programme under the safe corridor of the Nigerian Army.

Presenting the repentant terrorists at a news conference in Maiduguri, the head of the military counter-insurgency operation in the North East (TheatreCommanderofOperationLafiyaDole),Maj.Gen.RogersNicholas said that the surrender of terrorists would fast-track the de-radicalisation andrehabilitationprocessescurrentlyongoing.Hesaid:“Wearecallingonall the insurgents still hiding in the bush and Sambisa Forest to come out and surrenderwithoutanyhesitationandfear.Theycannotcontinuetobeliving andhidinginbushandforest,withoutfoodandwateramidthisongoingwar againstinsurgency.Ithastocometoanendwiththissafecorridorprovided by the military.” He said that the insurgents should not entertain any fear of arrestorhumiliationinthefrontlinesofSambisaForestandLakeChadregion.

Commission Urges Shiites to Eschew Violence

The National Human Rights Commission has expressed concern over the protest by the Islamic Movement in Nigeria (IMN), urging them to eschew violenceandconductthemselvesinanorderlymanner.TheActingExecutive SecretaryoftheCommissionMrs.OtiOvrawahstatedthiswhilereactingto theprotestbythegroupwhichturnedviolentanddisruptedpeaceinsome parts of the FCT earlier in the week. In a statement from the commission, OvrawahstatedthateventhoughtheConstitutionoftheFederalRepublic of Nigeria and other International Human Rights Law which Nigeria was a partyguaranteesrighttopeacefulprotest,thegovernmentoweditscitizens aresponsibilitytorestorelawandorderifsuchpeacefulproteststurnviolent.

She therefore called on the government to take a consolidated view on all issues generating tension in the country so as to ensure respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms of all affected persons including Sheik El Zak Zaki and his wife.

Lawyers Threatens to Sue Obla over Uwajeh

A group of aggrieved lawyers has protested the Federal government's appointmentoftheself-acclaimedprivateinvestigatorintheUnitedkingdom, Victor Uwajeh, as a consultant to trace and recover undeclared assets and proceeds of fraud. The appointment was made by Chairman of the Presidential Panel on Recovery of Public Property, Chief Okoi Obono Obla. The lawyersundertheaegisofLawyersAgainstCorruption(LAC)consequently threatened to drag Obla to court over the said appointment. The lawyers wonderedwhyamanwhohadafour-countcriminalchargependingagainst him in court should be appointed by the panel. Following alleged evasion of service of court processes, the court then granted the request made by the Federal government to serve criminal summons on Uwajeh through substitutedmeans,bypastingathispremises. FGallegedthatUwajehtried toobtainmoneythroughfraudulentmeansfrom SenatorAndyUbawhois representing Anambra South Senatorial District.

11

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ APRIL 21, 2018

INSIGHT

Why I Accepted to Serve Festus Keyamo

J

ust a few days ago, my appointment as the Director, Strategic Communications of President Muhammadu Buhari Campaign Organisation was made public. In that capacity, I would be the Official Spokesperson of the President’s campaigns for the 2019 Presidential Election.

Let me put it on record that I was indeed consulted before the announcement. Upon the offer, I wholeheartedly and proudly accepted the challenge to do this for the good of my country and for posterity. For in President Buhari I have found an approximation of the lofty values I cherish and have fought for all my life.

I know millions of Nigerians have never seen me in the mould of partisan politics. This is because for the past two and half decades, I have been under intense public scrutiny while engaging successive governments (military and civilian) in the most critical way possible. The public has also watched me grow steadily all the way from that young, restless lawyer to the exalted position of a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN).

In the process of my restless and relentless engagements of the authorities, I have been hounded, arrested, detained, paraded like a criminal, charged and discharged from courts severally, but remain unbowed. Hence, some of us have been branded as “radicals” and seen as completely apolitical.

However, the ultimate aim of every struggle is not really to enthrone a perfect, flawless system. Only the starry-eyed, younger ones think such is possible. That is Utopia. Rather, the ultimate aim of the struggle is to enthrone a government (yes, even with the normal human flaws) that is focused, determined and fiercely opposed to the unscrupulous wheeler-dealers in the society, committed to protecting the interests of the down-trodden, the weak and vulnerable.

One of the obvious ways to do this is to ensure that what belongs to all is not cornered by a few; and if they do so, to ensure that they are made to account and brought to justice. I can boldly say that no Government in the history of Nigeria has recovered so much looted funds as that of President Muhammadu Buhari. The fact that this Government has clearly chosen this path in protecting the masses of our country (as unpleasant as it has been to some) is one of the many reasons why I am so proud and bold about my support for the re-election bid of President Muhammadu Buhari.

In doing this, I take a cue from my revered late boss, Chief Gani Fawehinmi, SAN who mentored me. Throughout his career, he also consistently and fiercely engaged every government in Nigeria and suffered as a result. Guess what?

THE ONLY GOVERNMENT HE FULLY SUPPORTED THROUGHOUT HIS LIFETIME was that led by General Muhammdu Buhari in 1984 – 1985; and that was to the chagrin of some of his professional colleagues and fellow “radicals”. However, he saw what they did not see at that time, because when that government was overthrown by General Babangida, what followed was the worst era in our history in terms of institutionalizing corruption and political chicanery in Nigeria. In the 2007 Presidential election, my late boss again endorsed General Buhari in the following words: “When we talk of anti-corruption war, there is no way you will exclude General Buhari. I don’t want to hear what a political party is going to do, whether ANPP or PDP or NDP or which other political organization. Tell me who is leading the party, tell me who is leading the government, that’s my concern. It’s a matter of leadership. This is a serious election, very serious one”.

Some of those same forces and interests that saw the back of General Buhari in 1985 are still very much around with us. You can hear their voices getting louder of late, preaching hate and toiling hard to incite the people against the President. They want us to go back to our old ways, disguised as if they genuinely care for the masses of this country.

When you look at the profile and ignoble antecedents of these characters - the emergency heroes, some of us have no option but to undertake this role we have been called upon to assume just to ensure that they do not succeed in their selfish enterprise.

For all I have said above, my convictions about this job are deep and well thought-out. Given my background, it is clear that I cannot be a sycophantic rabble-rouser, looking for some personal gains. Having reached the top echelon of my career, some of us can conveniently stay away from all these, and continue to earn a good living from our thriving law practice.

However, the call of duty beckons because we are at a critical crossroads in our history where one wrong turn may take us back to the sorry state from which we are emerging. We are here to convince and appeal to the masses not to allow us take that wrong turn.

Now, it is important I elaborate a bit on this “sorry state” from which we are coming. Some people always attempt to befuddle the issues by continually reminding us of certain statistics that existed before 2015 and after 2015. However, our situation before 2015 is comparable to that of a car on a high speed, seemingly doing well on the road, but with the temperature gauge already rising. That car is in trouble.

But to the uninformed, the car would be seen as doing well. However, the callous driver, fully aware of the rising temperature in the engine, continues to speed on. After some time, it is inevitable that the engine of the car would overheat and crash. In that state, the callous driver hands over the car to the new driver. The new driver, seeing the condition of the vehicle, decides to fix the radiator first which is responsible for the overheating in order to protect the engine, before setting out on the road again. Yet, the callous driver mischie-

Keyamo

vously calls everyone to come and see how the new driver has parked the car to fix the engine before setting out once again. The callous driver tells everyone that the new driver is clueless; that that is why the car was parked briefly.

The above anecdote is a graphic reflection of the situation we find ourselves. With the crash in oil prices just before 2015, the previous government resorted to borrowing to pay salaries and recklessly drew down on our foreign reserves, just to give the impression that all was well. So much unearned money was also circulating in the country amongst a few, giving the false impression that we were in a buoyant economy. However, the economy was headed for a crash. All the indices show that the slip into recession started shortly before this government took over, like the car which engine was already over-heating.

The attempt by a few to deceive the people that all was well with us before this government took over, is one of the reasons some of us have decided to come out of our shells to put a hole in that false narrative. It is simply a big lie. I am persuaded that the Buhari Government took the right measures to halt a bigger disaster awaiting our economy had it been otherwise. Those who are persuaded otherwise are within their legitimate right to do so. We are all patriots, trying to find the right answers to our problems as a nation.

However, if you are persuaded otherwise, kindly state in details what exactly should have been done to run the economy better, given the crash in oil prices and production that dropped to around 700,000 barrels per day. Surely, discerning Nigerians would no longer buy the fable of “Buhari destroyed our economy”.

If I voted Buhari in 2015 and I am to vote for him again in 2019, then why can’t I campaign vigorously for him? I see no reason. It is a fallacy to say you are neutral in politics, yet you step forward to cast your vote at elections. If you are persuaded enough to vote for a candidate of your choice, then you must also be persuaded enough to campaign for that candidate, because your vote would be lost if you do not convince others to also adopt your position.

That is why I have made my choice for 2019 and I will publicly stand by it. That choice is President Muhammadu Buhari. For those who are persuaded otherwise, I challenge them to also name their choices because you cannot criticise my choice of a candidate without naming your own choice.

After all, the President would not be running against ghosts or against a vacuum. Therefore, this is not a time to hide behind a blanket criticism of any candidate. Each candidate should be assessed in comparative terms with other candidates.

There has also been much attempt to de-market the President using his age and health as pummeling tools, and as such raising the decibel in the clarion call for a young or younger President. Firstly, on the issues of age and health, it would be ungodly and outrageous for a mere mortal to assume the status of God Almighty to speculate on the longevity or strength of any human being. Even doctors have been proven wrong on so many occasions. It is a matter entirely in the hands of God. Our past Presidents that died in office (Abacha and Yar’Adua) were in their prime. In fact, Abacha did not even show any sign of a failing health before he slumped and died. In Zimbabwe, the main opposition candidate for years, Morgan Tsvangirai used the issue of age and health to campaign against President Mugabe, urging him to go and retire and rest. Yet, just a few weeks ago, Morgan Tsvangirai died at the age of 65 and Mugabe is still alive and kicking at the age of 94. Those are the mysterious ways of God Almighty. No human being should even use that as a campaign gimmick. That person would be courting

the wrath of God Almighty.

In addition, no one can argue that age has anything to do with the required integrity to be the President of a country.

I also firmly believe that our value systems in politics and the society have been so damaged pre-2015, that a firm and experienced hand is needed to reset our collective psyche before we can set sail again. The notion that public office is just available to share money which was the norm pre-2015 is gradually being changed. Spending a few more years to sustain that kind of re-orientation will do us a world of good. President Buhari is one of the very last of the upright Mohicans in Nigeria available to help reclaim public integrity before he takes his bow in 2023, if the Nigerian people so wish. We must take advantage of his still being around to deepen the nation’s moral fabric.

The choices before us have never been so CLEAR in the history of our country. On the one hand are those who are already in the mud and seeking to drag others into the mud.

These are the ones who keep saying “We are all corrupt together”, and who keep confessing and apologising like people coming out of a trance. They say they should be forgiven because they have been “honest” enough to confess and apologise. Fellow Nigerians, there is nothing like an honest thief. It is a disgusting oxymoron. A thief is a thief.

This is especially so if the thief did not willingly come out to admit he was a thief until his hands were caught right inside the cookie jar.

The other choice before us is a President who has been accused of everything that is false but even his most ardent critics, and detractors locally and internationally have not accused him of having a penchant for wealth accumulation.

I am persuaded to campaign for him by his austere lifestyle, his Spartan taste and frugal nature. I am not looking for a god or an angel to vote for. They are not around here on earth. I am only looking for someone with these minimum personal qualities I have enumerated above. The President’s other human flaws may be there, but I am waiting for the candidates of our opponents to show me their credentials from heaven.

People can easily point to those with questionable past in the ruling party, the APC. With my antecedents and in my true conscience, I cannot defend them and cannot make excuses for them. However, in joining the President’s party, they are subjecting themselves to the disciplined leadership of the President. Like Chief Gani Fawehinmi, SAN said above, it is the leadership that matters. Like I always ask: should we all stop going to church because some known sinners also throng to churches every Sunday? The obvious answer is in the negative. On the other hand, the other party whose key leaders were all part of those who pilfered our commonwealth are about to present us with one amongst themselves as a Presidential candidate in 2019. Of course, reasonable Nigerians are waiting to dismiss that before it happens.

However, for some of my friends, colleagues and associates who are still persuaded by the other way of running our country, and who belong to different political platforms, all I can do is to wish them well, but also state that this is a time for us to agree to disagree. It is all for the good of our country. It will bring out the best in us in canvassing our persuasions. However, I will be putting my heart and soul to this assignment and if anyone is offended by my commitment to the cause, I offer no apology. You can also do likewise to advance your cause. Nigerians would decide at the end of the day.

My message to all those teeming supporters who did it in 2015 for our President is that you do not abandon a ship with which you set sail midway. Our race is not a 100-meter dash. It is a marathon race to rescue our country. We are almost there. When we turn the corner in 2019, you will see the tape at the finishing line. We must not run out of breaths.

We believed in 2015. We must keep that belief alive. The hallmark of true supporters is to stand firm in times of storm and in times of calm. The storm is almost over. The President has battled to take control of the steering wheel of the nation and we are on course. Do not let the naysayers bully you whether in real life or in cyberspaces. When they run out of arguments, they resort to abuses. If they abuse you, see them as patriots, but misguided ones; if they attack you, see them as patriots, but misguided ones; if they call you unprintable names, see them as passionate patriots, but misguided ones.

Do not retaliate. With time, especially when majority of votes wipe out their minority opinions in 2019, they will come round to you and acknowledge your vision. So, hold your own and keep your heads up.

For us, this race is never a do-or-die affair. We shall present the facts as we see them and let Nigerians decide. We do not have to hire Cambridge Analytica to scare the electorate. They are already sufficiently scared by the humongous corruption that took place under the watch of the last government; the electorate are already sufficiently scared by those who are apologizing just to sneak their way back to power; the electorate are also sufficiently scared by the tons of cash buried in graveyards, farm houses, luxury flats in Ikoyi, in Yachts in the High Seas and those used to buy real estate strewn all over the world.

Nigerians know from where their problems came. They know it is not President Buhari. They know it came from some of those battling tooth and nail to displace him. Those who are persuaded by us should not remain aloof, please.

Kindly join us in this journey.

Thank you.

–––Keyamo, SAN, FCIArb (UK). Director, Strategic Communications, President Muhammadu Buhari Campaign Organisation (Official Spokesperson)

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ͺ͹˜ ͺ͸͹΀˾ THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER

COMMENTARY

A LIFE OF SERVICE Emeka Nwosu pays tribute to his brother Iheanyi Nwosu, an academic and a community leader

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n Thursday, February 1, 2018, death, like a thief in the night, stole into the family of late Chief Yellow Enyiocha Nwosu of Umuagbom Umukabia, Ohuhu in Umuahia, Abia State. On that fateful day, Professor Iheanyi Enyiocha Nwosu, a leading light in Umukabia community, was called to higher glory after a brief illness.

The death brought to an abrupt end 65 years of vibrant, purposeful and active life dedicated to national service, community development and outstanding scholarship. This instantly reminds us of the indelible words of Williams Shakespeare when he wrote: “Life is like a story told by an idiot, full of sound and fury; but signifying nothing”.

The immortal translation of Iheanyi Nwosu is still like a dream to the beloved ones he left behind. The reality that he is no longer on this side of the terrestrial divide with us is too hard to accept. But who are we, mere mortals, to question the will of the Almighty, the giver and taker of life. The consolation, however, lies in the fact that he lived a remarkable and an exemplary life in the service of God and mankind.

Professor Nwosu was a truly accomplished leader and great achiever who attained enviable heights in many spheres of human endeavours. He was a man who, from his childhood, was destined for greatness; greatness that did not come through any inheritance but through the dint of hard work and perseverance. Until his demise, he was an Associate Professor in Rural Sociology and Extension at the Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike where he distinguished himself as a leading scholar.

Iheanyi Nwosu was born on July 11, 1953 in Kaduna, Kaduna State to the family of Chief Yellow Enyiocha Nwosu and Madam Hannah Chinyere Nwosu (both of blessed memory). He was the first son and second child in a polygamous setting. His father who was a business merchant spared nothing to ensure that he attended the best schools during his era. He had his primary education at the Methodist Central School, Umukabia from where he secured admission to the famous Methodist College, Uzuakoli in 1966. In spite of the disruptions occasioned by the Nigeria-Biafra Civil War, he graduated tops in 1972.

After acquiring his Higher School Certificate (HSC) at Ngwa High School, Aba and a stint as classroom teacher at Item High School in Bende Local Government Area of Abia State, he gained admission in 1975 to the University of Nigeria, Nsukka to study Sociology and Anthropology. As a brilliant student, he earned a federal government scholarship based on academic excellence. He graduated in 1979 with Second Class (Honours) Upper Division. He also bagged M.SC and M.Phil Degrees in Sociology from the University of Lagos between 1983 and 1985. He capped his academic laurels with a Ph.D (Doctor of Philosophy) in Rural Sociology and Development from the Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike in 2007.

In his working career, he served meritoriously in the following institutions amongst others: Committee Clerk, National Assembly (1980-1984); Administrative Officer, Federal Ministry of Justice, Lagos (1984-1985); Staff Manager, Guinness Nigeria Plc, Lagos (1985-1989); Head of Personnel and Administration, Nigerian Ropes Plc, Lagos (1989-1992); Senior Personnel Officer, Nigeria Liquefied Natural

IN SPITE OF THE EMINENT HEIGHTS HE ATTAINED ON NATIONAL STAGES, HE STILL FOUND SUFFICIENT TIME TO ATTEND TO DEVELOPMENT CHALLENGES IN HIS COMMUNITY

Gas Ltd, Lagos (1992-1996); Managing Consultant, Center Point Management Consult Ltd, Lagos (1996-2000); and Director, National Orientation Agency (NOA), Abia State (2000-2004). While in the National Assembly, he served as the Secretary to the Nigerian Chapter of Parliamentarians for World Order (PWO) and participated in its various delegations to the United Nations in New York City, United States of America.

In spite of the eminent heights he attained on national stages, he still found sufficient time to attend to development challenges in his community. Apart from serving as the President of his community in Lagos (Umukabia Progressive Movement) between 1998 and 2000, he also served the community in the following capacities: Member, Church Building Committee, Christ Methodist Church, Umukabia (2010-2018); Chairman, Road Construction Committee, Umukabia (2008-2018); Chairman, Road Commissioning Committee, Umukabia (2012); and Chairman, Central Planning Committee for the Coronation of the pioneer traditional ruler of the Umukabia Autonomous Community (2017). He was also the Patron of Wesley Methodist Cathedral, Youth Association, Umuahia where he worshipped with his family in the Abia State capital.

He was a great achiever who left indelible footprints on the sands of time. As a consummate scholar, he authored several papers and books. One of such works was the biography of late nationalist, Sir Bob Ogbuagu, which he co-authored with his brother, Emeka Nwosu in 2015.

One of his numerous legacies is the Giant Strides International Academy, Umuahia, Abia State, which he founded a few years ago. As a man of letters, the establishment of the school is a practical expression of his enduring love for academic excellence and a restless desire to promote quality education in Abia State.

There is no doubt that Professor Iheanyi Nwosu, from his life odysseys, was highly accomplished. With his death, the nation has lost a visionary; the academia has lost a leading light and the Umukabia community has lost a hero and motivator.

He is survived by his wife, Christine Ijeoma Nwosu, three children namely, Chiedozie Iheanyi Nwosu, Amarachi Iheanyi Nwosu and Tochukwu Iheanyi Nwosu; and siblings among whom are Lady Comfort Nwabude, Mrs Onyinye Gold Nwanmeri, Mrs Cordelia Mgbudo Nnorom and Hon Emeka Nwosu and other numerous relations.

His mortal remains will be interred in his compound at his country home, Umuagbom Umukabia April 27, 2018, after a funeral service at the Christ Methodist Church, Umukabia.

As we bid farewell to him, we draw strength and inspiration from the words of Longfellow: “The lives of great men remind us to make our own lives sublime; departing, leave our footprints on the sands of time”. Professor Iheanyi Nwosu left indelible footprints which would endure with time.

Adieu Prof! Adieu Omenka until we meet on the resurrection morning to part no more. May your gentle soul continue to rest peacefully in the bosom of the Lord.

THE AUDACITY OF THE OFFA ROBBERY The security apparatus in the country needs to be overhauled, argues Tayo Ogunbiyi

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ecent armed robbery operation that threw the ancient town of Offa, Kwara State, into pandemonium for hours was executed in a most daring commando fashion. According to reports, dare devil armed robbers who stormed the town in audacious fashion divided themselves into two teams upon arrival with the first team demobilising the Police Station while the rest unleashed unhindered horror on bank premises and residents. In the process, five bank branches were allegedly raided while about 32 people, including Police officers, reportedly lost their lives in the dastardly operation that lasted two hours.

The robbers purportedly made away with large amount of cash from the branches of Zenith Bank, Guaranty Trust Bank, Union Bank, First Bank and Eco Bank in the town.

The blatant nature of the occurrence has fueled new concerns about the state of security in the country. As it is always the cases with such high scale robbery schemes, banks raided as well as residents are still counting their losses.

Similarly, some of the customers that were trapped in the banks as well as other residents, while the operation lasted, are yet to get over the traumatic experience. Indeed, some of them might live with the shock of the horrible experience for a long time to come.

Meanwhile, the Police have reportedly arrested some suspects in connection with the armed robbery incidence. According to reports, after the attack, the police team engaged in raids of identified criminal spots, stop and search operations, visibility and confidence building patrols, intelligence gathering which led to the arrest of the suspects after the

suspects reportedly engaged the police in fierce gun duels from their various hideouts.

Now that the dust gathered by the sad event is gradually settling down, it is imperative to properly scrutinise some of its far-reaching fallouts. First, it is instructive to stress that the police offered little or no resistance to the robbers throughout the operation. The robbers held sway for as long as they wanted with such irritating audacity. This only goes to actually confirm what have been the fears of many Nigerians concerning the preparedness level of men and officers of the Nigerian Police to deal with such brazen attacks.

It smacks of effrontery for robbers to daringly hold the second largest town in Kwara State hostage for as long as they did. The puzzle herein is that if banks, public institutions and residents are not really assured of their safety in a place as big as Offa, what then is the lot of those who are located in places where there are little or no police presence of any sort? Your guess is as good as mine. This is a rather disturbing trend that the police authorities and the leadership of the various security agencies have to properly look into.

In as much as one understands the various challenges of the police in particular, it doesn’t speak well of us as a nation that a gang of robbers could hold a whole town hostage for hours without any resistance whatsoever from security operatives. If this odd pattern is not frontally addressed, it portends a great danger for us as a people.

The Offa robbery episode also calls attention to the deplorable situation of youth in the country. It is pathetic that the youth

who should normally be in the vanguard of nation-building are taking to destructive social vices. This, if not quickly checked, signifies a bleak future for our dear nation. Usually, if the prevailing condition in a given society does not offer the youth the needed platform to channel their bursting energy into positive use, they readily embrace rebellious predisposition.

It is a well known fact that nature abhors vacuum.

Sadly, the high unemployment situation in the country coupled with other socio-political factors naturally make the youth vulnerable to several anti-social temptations. Recent statistics show that 60 per cent of the country’s population is made up of youths while youth unemployment rate is estimated to be over 50 per cent. Similarly, figures from the National Bureau of Statistics indicate that an average of 1.8 million youths find themselves in the labour market annually, out of which 250, 000 to 300, 000 are graduates. Additionally, the unemployment rate in the country is given to be about 23.9 per cent. Hence, faith based organisations, key social-cultural bodies, related government agencies and other youth-based stakeholders should continue invest in the development and empowerment of the youth. This is, perhaps, the best way to preserve public security in the country.

Equally, all stakeholders in security must not relent in their efforts in the onerous task of checkmating robbers and criminals in the country. It is only a common frontal response that could effectively forestall future occurrence of such dastardly robbery act as the one recently experienced in Offa. Public

security cannot be obtained without the active involvement, participation and support of everyone in the society. With the issue of insufficient manpower in the Nigeria Police Force in particular, it is quite obvious that the police alone cannot sufficiently protect the people. Latest data shows that the entire Nigerian Police Force does not have up to 450,000 personnel in its fold and out of this a significant proportion is assigned to secure a few highly placed individuals. It is yet to be seen how a police force with such inadequate personnel could effectively secure a nation of over 140 million people. This, indeed, is an indication that security apparatus in the country needs to be considerably overhauled.

To properly address current security question in the country, we need to urgently revisit the contentious issue of state police. In spite of all the arguments against state police, the reality is that Nigeria is too large and complex to be policed centrally. If we are really serious about overcoming current security challenges in the polity, the time to embrace the option of state police is now. A viable and dynamic security system is required to sustain significant development and ensure adequate security of life and property. The police as we currently have in the country might not be able to ensure effective security across the nation.

We need to come to term with the fact that state police is a necessity in a federal system like Nigeria if we are to effectively combat crime as it is being practiced by other federating units the world over.

Ogunbiyi is of the Ministry of Information & Strategy, Alausa, Ikeja, Lagos

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ͺ͹˜ ͺ͸͹΀ ˾ THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER

INSIGHT

Democracy in action...

Lagos Forensic Centre and the Wheel of Justice

Nigerian Youths Are Talented

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he state of youthfulness is a state of the mind but generally the youthful age bracket is from age 18 to 35 years.

These members of the human family who fall within the above age bracket are classified as the heartbeat of global economic activities. A check around most highly performing economies with the possible exception of Japan shows that the young populations are the key drivers of the economy. For instance, in the United States of America, one of the biggest companies that is worth several billions known as FACEBOOK is owned by a very young entrepreneur. In Nigeria, most of the most successful persons made their marks at very young age. Nigeria has also produced one of the youngest presidents of a sovereign state when the then 33-year old Yakubu Gowon was railroaded into the position of military head of state after a military coup. Aliko Dangote who is the richest black man in the World became prosperous and wealthy as a very young man. Much of the World’s inventions and very successful businesses were set up by very young people within the youthful age bracket.

However, the octogenarian president of Nigeria Muhammadu Buhari was quoted in the media to have stated that 60 per cent of Nigerian young people are not only uneducated but do not want to do any form of work.

This statement from President Buhari whose entire children are also within the youthful age bracket did a lot of damage to the youths of Nigeria. Indeed, this statement is in sharp contradiction with the letter President Muhammadu Buhari wrote last year to the two most successful musical performers from Nigeria known as Davido and WizKid. Questions should be asked about the intention or reason for the substantially false outburst about the Nigerian youth.

President Buhari had congratulated renowned hip-hop artistes, Ayodeji Ibrahim Balogun, a.k.a WizKid, and David Adedeji Adeleke, a.k.a Davido, on their awards at the Music of Black Origin (MOBO). In a statement by his media adviser, Femi Adesina, President Buhari joined the teeming fans of the two Nigerian artistes in Nigeria and all over the world to celebrate the highly deserved and meritorious recognition. WizKid won “International Best Artist’’ award, while Davido picked the “Best African Act’’.

The president affirmed that both singers have showcased the rich talents in the country, and brought pride to the nation through their

many songs and performances. He commended their dedication, hard work and charity works.

Few years back Nigeria played host to the owner of Facebook who proceeded to shower encomiums on Nigerian youth. The Facebook founder even shared this testimony with President Buhari. Mark Zuckerberg had stated that he was blown away by the talent and level of energy of the Nigerian youth that he saw at the Co-creation Hub in Yaba, Lagos.

MR. President, can you see that you are absolutely wrong to pass that false verdict on the vibrant youth whose votes you will ask for in about six month’s time? If you demarket the youth as lazy, does that not also rub off on you? Do you know that last year two Nigerian children made excellent entry results to all the Ivy League universities in the USA? Do you know that Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie is a young Nigeria who has become a phenomenal author and one of the best story tellers in the USA? Mr. President, are you saying that those your beautiful and well educated children are not amongst the youth of Nigeria that you have profiled as lazy and uneducated?

Emmanuel Onwubiko, Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria

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veryday society undergoes different transformation. Nature has either endowed or placed demand on human beings to procreate. As humanity progresses in growth, internal and external influences play a major role in the character formation of people.

Development in most societies have come of age with so much security challenges where men cleverly manoeuvre their way out of criminal acts to evade justice. In countries like Nigeria, many have been convicted of offences they knew nothing about while real criminals walk free, and sometimes tall.

In an attempt to consolidate their acts, criminals initiate and fund security support group to exploit the weakness of the system, with the intention of taking undue advantage of its deficiencies.

Historically, various approaches have been deployed towards fishing out criminals in different climes. In contemporary time, the search for error free, time tested and objective based crime investigation led to the discovery of Forensic Science as an application of broad range of sciences to answer questions of interest to a legal system. Whether in relation to a crime or a civil action, forensic science utilises natural broad range of sub-sciences that

T H E SAT U R DAY N E W S PA P E R EDITOR SHAKA MOMODU DEPUTY EDITOR YEMI ADEBOWALE 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, EMMANUEL EFENI DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS PETER IWEGBU, ANTHONY OGEDENGBE DEPUTY DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OJOGUN VICTOR DANBOYI SNR. ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR ERIC OJEH ASSOCIATE DIRECTORS PATRICK EIMIUHI, SAHEED ADEYEMO CONTROLLERS ABIMBOLA TAIWO, UCHENNA DIBIAGWU, NDUKA MOSERI DIRECTOR, PRINTING PRODUCTION CHUKS ONWUDINJO TO SEND EMAIL: first name.surname@thisdaylive.com

exploit natural techniques to get relevant criminal and legal evidence to ensure justice is not subverted.

Forensic DNA analysis as developed by Sir Alec Jeffery was first used in 1985 to determine the person responsible for a murder of a 15-year- old girl, Lynda Mann who was raped to death in Narborough, Leicestershire, a small English town.

Semen sample obtained from the victim was eventually used by Jeffery to establish a strong case against the criminal. In Nigeria, effective investigation of crime has always been a complicated issue.

Till date, high profile murder cases involving high ranking personalities such as Pa Alfred Rewane, Chief Bola Ige, Mr Funsho Williams and many others remain unresolved largely due to the burden of proof.

It is in order to ensure that perpetrators of evil are identified and appropriately punished that the Lagos State government established a first state- owned forensic centre. The centre, driven by world class technology in forensic inquest, is expected to bring perpetrators of crime to book while ensuring quick justice. The facility is capable of resolving all forms of crimes, paternity issues and others through modern technique of investigation which is now the trend across the world. It has the capacity to provide police, prosecutors, legal representatives and observers with crime scene processing; serological screening for blood and semen; DNA analysis of bone, teeth, hair, maternal and paternal DNA analysis.

Other services include expert witness and case handling service; maternal and paternal ancestry DNA analysis; cold case file review and mass disaster human identification.

The Lagos DNA Centre, which conforms to international standard is the first of its kind in the country and the decision to allow members of the public, other states and neighbouring countries to have access to the use of the centre in order to meet their DNA needs, makes it more profound. Fighting crime in a cosmopolitan state like Lagos is herculean if one factors in the huge population and their background, the defects in our judicial system and the attendant lack of scientific methods to apprehend criminals. With the forensic centre now in place, the fight against crime in Lagos has, no doubt, received a boost, and perpetrators of heinous crimes such as rape, assassination, armed robbery, etc., can easily be apprehended and brought to book even years after committing the crime.

Bolade Odumade, Alausa, Lagos

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ APRIL 21, 2018

SUPER SATURDAY

UNWANA UKEME

Setting Lagos Ablaze with Gospel Music

From obscurity in Uyo where his music career kicked off 17 years ago to Lagos where he was tutored under the leadership of The Realm of Glory International Church, the dynamic and energetic Unwana Ukeme, CEO of De Voltage Nation, has metamorphosed into one of Nigeria’s respected gospel artistes.

As he plans to set Lagos ‘ablaze’ through musical concert tomorrow (Sunday), Ukems tells Funke Olaode why he is passionate about God and soul-winning

O

ne thing stands him out from the crowd.

It is sonorous, scintillating, and soulsaving. That unique possession is his voice. For at least 17 years, he has been using that one-of-a-kind voice to sing and win souls for the Christ. Welcome to the world of Unwana Ukeme, a young Nigerian gospel singer and songwriter. Again, his name Unwana means ‘God’s light or the light that makes you’. The dynamic gospel singer hails from Ikot Oku Ikono, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

Besides being suave and simple, Ukeme is energetic and humorous. He has a down-to-earth personality that easily endears others to him. He began his music career as a young believer serving as a drummer in a church – the Chosen Generation Chapel. With grace and ingenuity, he later became the assistant music director of his local church. After some time, he became the music director and praise worship leader while serving in the ministry of Rev Ethel Odungide of His Fireplace Ministries.

As he grew in his music ministry so was his thirst for God blossomed. He would later receive a call for vision while serving under Rev. Odungide, seeking the face of God for the right timing. Thereafter, in 2005, he launched his music ministry, called The Worship Ablaze.

Since 2015, he has organised music programmes and seminars with the attendant result of many lives being changed, destiny restored, and other numerous

testimonies.

“I have always been passionate about music and God and by the time I gave my life to Jesus Christ I started taking music as a career at the age of 18. I went into it in 2004 while serving under the CEO of His Fireplace Concert Music Ministry where I served for four years – between 2003 and 2006. While serving the vision came to establish my music ministry which was initially named Worship Ablaze; with it we had hosted concerts for three years in 2005, 2006, 2007,” he says.

Like every young man, Ukeme sought greener pasture in Lagos. Upon his relocation to Lagos from Uyo in 2007, he joined the music ministry of Realm of Glory International Church, under the leadership of Pastor Sam and Rev. Grace Aiyedogbon. There, he further developed himself in songwriting, discipleship, capacity building, kingdom manifestation, and expansion. From 2015 to 2017, he served as the music director of Realm of Glory, Ipaja branch, where he was saddled with the responsibility of assisting the local pastor in the development of an upfront music ministry.

Speaking further on his foray into the vineyard, he relates, “When I came to Lagos I went through process of mentoring and capacity building which took the next ten years under the tutelage of Rev. and Pastor Sam and Grace Aiyedogbon – the founder of Realm of Glory International. I have served in that ministry for ten

years. I was transferred in 2015 to serve in a new branch church where I was sent to go and do music serving under Pastor Toni Akintara, a passionate and energetic woman of God. It has been a fulfilling moment for me as I am doing it full-time and currently getting set to release singles before launching out fully. My church is a church that prepares you to make sure that you are well-grounded before you are launched out. I have the full backing of my church.”

No doubt, Ukeme has been making music to the delight of the congregation in his church. But this time, he feels it is time to launch out in a big way through concerts tagged ‘Worship Ablaze’. What inspired the theme? He explains, “For the Bible says I am the refiner’s fire so that whosoever you contact, the fire will entangle them and set them ablaze; destroy whatever that is not of God and ignite the purpose of God for them to run with the purpose. Really, the purpose is still about passion and soul-winning for the Christ. People go about doing music. We believe we can do music in another dimension where people will come and sit down – not only to listen to the music but the art of music which I believe will touch people. It is like reforming the music in which people will get better. That is what inspires this concert.

The most important thing is the presence of the Holy Spirit because if we create an atmosphere for the Holy Spirit to come down – definitely – the people who attend

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ RIL 21, 2018

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SUPERSATURDAY SETTING LAGOS ABLAZE WITH GOSPEL MUSIC...

No doubt, Ukeme has been making music to the delight of the congregation in his church. But this time, he feels it is time to launch out in a big way through concerts tagged‘Worship Ablaze’.

What inspired the theme?

He explains,“For the Bible says I am the refiner’s fire so that whosoever you contact, the fire will entangle them and set them ablaze; destroy whatever that is not of God and ignite the purpose of God for them to run with the purpose.Really, the purpose is still about passion and soulwinning for the Christ

the programme will have unforgettable experience.”

According to him, some of guest artistes expected at the concert are Tim Godfre, Yemi Levite, Rev. Ethel Odungide, Pastor Aity Dennis, Minister Naomi Classik, Raptureman Minister Joshua Bassey, Minister Sam, Pastor Stephen Elbuba, Worshippers and De Awesome crew.

It has almost been 20 years of music, does he find fulfilment and how rewarding in terms of making money? With a chuckle, he responds, “Well, I believe in the God who provides. The main essence of me going into the music ministry is not just to make money but to win souls for the Kingdom. The Bible says, if you seek the Kingdom of God first every other thing will be added. If we are able to touch lives and destinies are restored, – which is part of our vision – He will take care of us. The vision is to set men ablaze for the kingdom expansion because when they receive the touch of the Holy Spirit – it leads to self-discovery.”

Cute and energetic with a smile that can light a dark room and a firebrand choir master, Ukeme is not immune to the opposite sex who constantly crave for his attention. How does he handle the daughters of Eve? Amused, he gives another chuckle and says, “The guardian angel has been the holy spirit who told me since I came to The Realm of Glory to hold on because He wants to take me through a process. Those periods were time of re-branding and realigning myself with the right people that would be able to coach me, put me through the word of God because there is no man that is rooted in the word of God that the fear for God will not be in Him. And when your spirit is in tune with the Holy Spirit, there is this signal that the Holy Spirit will always give you when you are in a position where the devil wants you to fall. Self-discipline and self-control have helped and sometimes God sends those people not to make you fall but to be an agent of change in their lives.”

Having a positive of his many female admirers and fans is one thing being in love with somebody is another. When asked who is his ideal woman? The dynamic singer points out, “For me, she doesn’t have to be a singer like me. But I like a woman who encourages, motivates, prays and supports my vision, most especially my music ministry; and (she must be) ready to go with me every step

of the way.”

As he and his team are getting set to set Lagos ‘ablaze’ through his concert slated for the evening of Sunday, April 22, at The Redeemed Christian Church of God, Corner Stone Parish, My Father’s House, Okota, Lagos, Ukeme reiterated his commitment to draw more souls to Christ just

as he urged people should look out for an unusual touch from God, music in another dimension like never seen before.

“We are putting things together to make it – the outing – successful. This is my first outing since I came to Lagos ten years ago. We trust God for Open Heaven, unusual experience that will live with

them forever.”

Ukeme sees his star rising beyond the shore of Nigeria because in everything he does, the talented gospel singer said he doesn’t think small, citing Proverbs 22:29 which says, “A man diligent in his business shall appear before kings and not mean men.”

A Man Diligent in His Business Shall Appear Before Kings and Not Mean Men

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T H I S D AY ˾ Ͱͯ˜ ͰͮͯͶ

Plus

LOUD WHISPERS AUTO GLOBAL SOCCER TEENS CONNECT FASHION FILE INTERVIEW

pg. 20 pg. 26 pg. 29 pg. 38 pg. 43 pg. 50

Obi Ezeude

Belloxxi Represents the Triumph of a Young Nigerian’s Tenacity

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER APRIL 21, 2018

PLUS

When former President Goodluck Jonathan commissioned Belloxxi Industries Limited, Agbara factory

The Best Inspiration and Advice I Received was from Aliko Dangote

Access to capital is arguably the biggest threat to entrepreneurs around the world. For Obi Ezeude, lack of capital wasn’t a convenient excuse. In fact, he found that capital was actually more abundant and available in today’s world and his successful manufacturing business is a proof. Today, Ezeude is Nigeria’s most successful indigenous biscuit manufacturer. Managing Director of Belloxxi Industries Limited, which has an ambitious factory in Agbara, Ogun State.

With incredible business acumen and determination, he has succeeded in making a name for himself. He’s the man who beats the odds in striving for excellence. With Nigerian youths’ ambitions becoming more profound, the trailblazer Ezeude has opened his door to the younger generation of Nigerian youths who are setting out to write their own destinies; establishing remarkable enterprises that will transform Nigeria and reignite its economy. Adedayo Adejobi writes about the pride and dignity of the man Ezeude

The Story of Tenacity is story in business ventures and ultimately coming this far in manufacturing and founding the Beloxxi Industries is a unique tale that inspires. His narrative exudes hope, firm and unflinching belief in the economic potential of Nigeria.

He conceived the idea and worked hard to make it a reality.

He left the United States of America after obtaining a degree in Banking and Finance for Nigeria when most of his generation in Nigeria borrowed money to travel abroad. Obi Ezeude started out importing biscuits. He had his reasons.

“My reason to start with biscuit was because I hadn’t much money and needed a business my little capital could afford.”

But in 2003, the government banned importation of biscuits; a development he said looked to him like an opportunity to fast-track an old longing to be a manufacturer. When the Nigerian government banned cracker imports in 2003, Ezeude saw this as a clear sign that the time had come for him to launch his own factory. Firm in his decision, he went ahead to inaugurate its maiden cracker factory in Ikeja, Lagos State, which became operational in 2006 before expanding and establishing his factory

H

house in Agbara.

“It had got to the stage I was shipping in over 1,000 containers of cream crackers yearly.

So, I told my team that wasn’t it better we produce these biscuits in Nigeria? I got all sorts of negative pushbacks as to why it could not be done in Nigeria, especially on grounds of insecurity, infrastructure, bad road network, power and every bad thing that afflicts humanity was used in describing Nigeria.”

Knowing that life is in stages, he knew that the phase of importation was over. Going into an uncharted terrain, he took the plunge into manufacturing, even in the face of glaring temptations to cut corners and save his business which could collapse as a result of the ban.

A day he can’t forget in a hurry was March 2003. It marked a paradigm shift in his business life.

“That day the former President Olusegun Obasanjo, my very good friend, banned the importation of biscuits and confectionaries in Nigeria. A lot of people asked me what I was going to do. I replied saying this is the end of one chapter, and another chapter must open.

They gave me ideas of smuggling. In fact, the then Malaysian Ambassador summoned me to tell me what I could do to complain and talk to World Trade Organisation (WTO) about how unfair the ban was. When he finished, I said:

Your Excellency, every president of any country has the best interest of his country. So I’m not about to write any petition. It is my duty as a Nigerian to find the positive side of this obstacle. There must be a reason and I must find out. So I left him and started planning my move into manufacturing of biscuits.”

Eyes Set on the Prize, Facing the Challenge Faced with daunting challenges which seemed insurmountable, but with his eyes set on the ultimate goal of manufacturing the first proudly made-in-Nigeria cream crackers biscuits, he reached out to an old contact in the United State where he went to school and so he was able to apply to EXIM Bank of the United States and by November that year, they approved $2.2 billion just for the equipment but the problem was where to put them as the banks wouldn’t bring money. He took up the story.

“I went to Italy to meet the Italians who would supply the equipment so I told them the plants couldn’t bring money. They said I should find a warehouse in Nigeria, rent it for few years, get money, put my machine and make it my permanent site. So we got a reptile-infested one here in Ikeja.”

On a close assessment of the entrepreneur, his tone depicts an industrialist who has learnt how to survive with little or no expectation of

support from government. His fate is the fate of many other people who are into manufacturing in Nigeria.

“In Nigeria, we talk about problems, but we don’t proffer solutions. We are more destructive than constructive. When we started Beloxxi biscuits, many people did not believe it was made in Nigeria because the quality was better than the one I was importing and most importantly, I went from employing less than 20 people to 350 young graduates. The value addition on the economy is obvious.

We are not just making biscuits, we employ and empower young people and there’s a multiplier effect on the economy,” he says with dignity and pride.

There is no gainsaying that Ezeude sees the opportunity in Nigeria’s huge population which has made it one of the most attractive markets in Africa. With over 190 million people (2015) and growth projections for the population to reach 240 million by 2050 (according to the UN), the demand for manufactured goods in Nigeria is expected to rise exponentially.

Thirteen years down the line, this is what running the Beloxxi, means to him. According to him, Beloxxi cream cracker is the finest cream cracker in sub-Saharan Africa.

“To me, Beloxxi is a way of showing to the world that top notch brands can come from Nigeria. It is also my passion and a way of

APRIL 21, 2018 ˾ THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER

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PLUS

Youths at work in Belloxxi Industries Limited, Agbara

The Day Obasanjo Banned Biscuit Importation, My Life Never Remained the Same Again creating jobs for young people to change their lives. It means more than just a business. It’s a statement of fact that we can do it. It means a full accomplishment of a change, a convergence of ideas that if young people put their minds to it; they can rise up above the odds.”

Criticising Government is no Pastime Reacting to America’s Microsoft boss, Bill Gate’s hard-hitting critical and structural assessment of Nigeria’s economy, he expressed his view in these words: “It is not enough to criticise the government. The Nigerian private sector is working in tandem with the government to help see what they need to do to help our country. As a member of the Industrial Council, what you don’t know, you can’t change. What Bill Gates said is apt and it’s the truth. The question is what do we do? Alhaji Aliko Dangote did not sit down to complain, he’s taking the problem of Nigeria one after the other to provide a solution. In doing that, government now sees the need to make policies to make those things work. So let’s stop this excessive criticism of government. It’s okay to say times are hard, there’s corruption but everyone is talking about the problems but no one is solving it. For Nigeria to move forward there must be a synergy between the political and the business class. The private sector also needs to be strong, and create jobs for young Nigerians.”

Expanding the Frontiers of Operations On August I, 2016, for the first time, Ezeude’s Beloxxi divested minority shareholding to German prime investment bank, the KFW-DEG, a share value of $80m. The German Investment Bank with the 8Miles of London bought the shares that enabled Beloxxi commence its latest expansion to nine production lines from an existing six production lines and an allied packaging factory in Oregun which has commenced operations.

Having explored the Nigerian market, when asked what opportunities he might be looking to expand outside Nigeria, he hads this to say: “We have a goal strategy. We have been exporting to Ghana for about seven years, I can’t really remember. We export to Liberia. We used to do Angola, and now United States. Now, we want to be able to support the domestic market first before expansion. We want to be in control of our domestic market and then move across the West African sub- region. The strategy is not to do multiple plants all over Africa but our objective is to consolidate the Nigerian position and make Beloxxi the authentic cream cracker

L-R: A guest, Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, Obi and Minister for Trade and Investment, Okey Elenamah

brand of Nigeria.”

Sharing his experience on how he has weathered the storm during the recent recession as a manufacturer, he explained. “We try our very best to live above the economic level.

One of the things we tried to do is monitor the micro and macro-economic situations. I knew in 2015 that the economy was headed for a tail spin. Lots of international private equity investment firms approached me that they want to invest in 2016, we decided to wait for it and we raised funds to the tune of $80million from a bank in Germany, United Kingdom and then African Capital Alliance, a Nigerian-owned private equity firm. We were able to come up with a product that is cheap, tasty and suitable for consumption and that gave us the cash flow we needed. We expanded in Agbara and as the first in West Africa; we installed five state of the world’s best equipment, trained our staff very well and so far we have maintained consistency in producing quality products. These strategic moves make us stand out today.”

When asked to talk about President Buhari and his role in the economy, and if he is good or bad for business, he was elusive, yet tactical in fielding the question. “I can’t comment on that because I’m a member of the Industrial Council and we give some of our ideas to them so it will not be fair for me to comment on the pages of newspaper.”

A Word of Advice from Dangote The highlight of his manufacturing career was about the best advice he received transitioning from importing to owning a manufacturing plant. “The best advice I received in 2003 was from Alhaji Aliko Dangote. We met in South Africa at a summit and I requested that I wanted to see him. I planned to talk to him for 30 minutes but we ended up spending an hour. The first question he asked was where I was going to site my factory. He asked me about my objectives and I told him: to make the best crackers. He then told me the story of how he emerged in the sugar business. He advised me to choose quality over quantity and that I should make sure I get the best equipment, be the best quality in the market and forget about what people have to say. He helped me advertise. Till date, I maintain a robust relationship with him. We are in the Industrial Council together. He’s our big boss and he inspires us. We always talk but in a formal way of communication.”

The entrepreneur says the biggest mistake he thinks he made in business and career, was not starting early enough. Did he see himself doing this earlier on, his response says it all: “Yes. The greatest mistake was doubting one’s capabilities and listening to people. Today we employ over 400 young graduates. I’ve motivated a lot of young people. Today, the

Agbara plant afforded me opportunity to prove to them that every young kid in Nigeria can. There is a canteen that feeds them and a clinic too. Everybody working for Beloxxi is full staff. We do not have casual workers. I don’t contract third party. I do all my interviews and staffing myself. So that everyone will have equal access. No ‘connection’. All my friends know me; they don’t send CVs to me I don’t collect it. Everybody must go through the recruitment process. I don’t have any relatives working for me. I don’t know my staff from anywhere.”

Nigeria Remains His Home If there is anything in the world that gives him a sense inspiration, it’s the black race and most populous black nation, Nigeria.

The nation motivates him. He says, “Nigeria motivates me because that’s the only country I have. Everybody is a product of something.

The only thing that motivates me is the enormous capabilities I see in this country and my job is to discover those capacities.

The problem of this country is that we have diamond but the problem is to get a rag to clean it.”

The two persons who fit the bill of being called his heroes are his parents. “They always tell me to work hard. They believe in me.”

And from all indications, he heeded that advice. And it paid off, handsomely.

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ APRIL 21, 2018

with JOSEPH EDGAR (09095325791)

LOUD WHISPERS

Keyamo

Festus Keymo – A Coup There is no other way to describe this appointment. The Director General of the Buhari Campaign Group has signed a letter appointing this my brother something on the campaign organisation. This is the work of a master strategist and this determines the direction of the campaign. This appointment shows that the Buhari re-election train would be more of strategy, logic and debate. I like this for that is the basis of democracy.

Festus who is my egbon has in his long career relied heavily on the rule of law and on superior logic to mark out his stance on issues. He has also been on the forefront of the protection of the basic human rights of the ordinary man and you see why I am saying that this appointment is strategic. In fact, it is a coup because it would divide opinion amongst the common man. I really do like this and I can begin to feel the excitement that finally there would be someone from Buhari’’s camp who would be able to return Reno’s strong arguments with powerful arguments laced with big English and also clarity. Well, as I told him last night when we spoke, this would not be easy because Sowore will really abuse him o. He must not lose his temper o and he has promised me that this would be a gentlemanly campaign. I believe him. Let the debates begin.

Happy Birthday Sir – David Mark This officer and a gentleman recently marked his 70th birthday. How time flies! I still remember him in his heyday as a spritely young soldier who was the governor of Niger State.

I believe at some point. I used to really like him because of the scarves he used to wear in his uniform. The scarves marked him out and made me see him as my hero. Well, until as Minister of Communications he was reported to have made that immortal statement that the telephone was not meant for the poor and promptly became one of the most unpopular Nigerians. Well, as of that time I believed him o, because we used to only see phones in Ikoyi and these top military men’s homes. If we wanted to make calls we would all go and queue waiting for our turns and after hours of waiting you will be praying to God that you will get ring tone. So after all

Mark

Babangida

MALABU: I’m Kind of Confused I have tried to follow this matter but it seems that the more I read materials on it, the more confused I get. The piece done by the legendary Rueben Abati this week on matters relating to this episode went further to confuse me. What is the issue with this particular Oil Block that seems to have defied all logic? I hear the matter has passed through three Attorneys General and also three successive governments and at some point, Obasanjo had revoked the licence but a court reawarded it.

But still the issue is still ongoing. I have heard so much about this particular matter, I have

the suffering, that statement was all we needed to respect ourselves and keep ourselves within the ambits of our place in society. The moment we were reminded, we went back to letter writing and witchcraft to send important messages. Well, what else can we say today but to thank God for long life? Our lord has lived a long and fulfilled life growing from the scarveswearing sharp soldier, all through to

heard there is ethnic colouration, I have heard that Abacha is fighting from his grave, I have heard money laundering, I have heard Shell is prosecuting their staff because of the matter. They even said that the UK government cleared some payments through their office for something. This just gets me more and more confused. Then finally the courts just cleared Adoke. What was his own in the matter in the first place? Please can someone just sit me down and kindly explain to me word for word and in simple layman’s English this matter? I need to understand.

the Senate Presidency and now his much-deserved elder statesman status and guess what? Telephone now is for everybody. I wish I had his numbers I would have called him to wish him happy birthday. Anyway, I hope he sees this. Happy birthday sir and may God keep you for us o. Bye. IBB’s Biography Let me confess, I did not watch

Adeleke

the TV programme but they said it was on Channels TV. Our former military president was said to have explained why he would not write his biography because according to him, nobody would be interested in reading it. I beg to disagree o. We are plenty waiting for the book. Sir, we need explanations on so many things.

So many issues that have divided our society, and continue to dog us to date are ascribed to your regime. Let me even tell you now that I dedicated my long essay at the University of Ibadan simply because when you came on a state visit, you smiled at me. Yes o, you may not remember but that smile electrified me and I became your foot soldier, well, until June 12, 1993. So my lord, you have to write the book, you really need to write the book so that we can perfectly understand your mindset. If it is to sit down and write it that is the problem, you can dictate it to that your spokesman, the one that issued that statement the other day which put him in trouble. I think he has enough time in his hands. Let’s do this, we are waiting sir.

Senator Adeleke – It’s Dancing Time It’s dancing time in Osun State. Our senator who has given Nigeria two very versatile artistes in his son and nephew, the wonderfully talented Davido has suddenly thrown his hat into the ring and it is dancing time all over Osun State. You see, the thing there is that with all that we have gone through as poor people, a little bit of slapstick will go a long way to soothe frayed nerves. So the dancing senator would take his wonderful steps all over Osun and in song and dance, asks the people for their votes. I hear he is very popular in the state and has some credible projects ongoing and if you now add this to his prestigious pedigree, we just might see a wonderfully talented governor emerge in Osun. Then you can now imagine his first Council of State meeting how he would weave and bop down the aisle as he approaches the president for a handshake. He will mesmerise the president with his turns and backflips spreading joy and happiness all over the dour chambers. Well, let’s wish him luck. We really do need this kind of happiness around us, things have been tough.

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APRIL 21, 2018 ˾ THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER

SPY GLASS

OBA ADEYEYE OGUNWUSI

TALE OF A ROYAL FATHER SANS “OLORI” Apart from his royal status, the Ooni of ife, Oba Adeyeye Babatunde Enitan Ogunwusi, has all it takes to be admired and loved by women: he is handsome, rich and vocal. Besides, he carries himself with candour and is every woman’s dream partner.

However, it is surprising that since his marriage to beautiful Olori Wuraola Otiti crashed, he is yet to walk down the aisle with another woman.

Although in the past couple of months, a number of women have reportedly tried to outsmart one another in the bid to worm their way into his heart, none can be said to have been successful.

Sometime ago, a fair-complexioned lady, Abishine, who posed for a photograph with him was thought to be the replacement of Olori Wuraola.

At that time, many had said that the Ojaja had even paid her bride price to her parents in Abeokuta, Ogun State.

But this was quickly dismissed as a wicked rumour.

Also, another lady considered to be the next Olori was Bolanle Emmanuelle Ropo. But she later came out to deny the claim.

As if that was not enough, it is being rumoured that the dark-skinned royal father is about taking one 27-year-old Tobi Philips, a top model and former beauty queen, as the next Olori.

As of now, this may be said to be in the realm of rumour. But tongues are wagging over the single status of the well-respected and revered monarch.

The concern in some quarters is informed by a Yoruba proverb that “There is no respect for a king without a queen.

LANRE DA-SILVA TO CONQUER NEW TERRITORIES Popular fashion designer, Lanre Da Silva-Ajayi, comes across as a restless soul. She is constantly driven by an ambition to rule her world. As far

with BAYO ADEOYE .... 08054680651 email: bayoolunla@gmail.com

as she is concerned, opportunities abide everywhere except for those who have set some limitations for themselves.

In her case, she dreams big. No wonder, having stamped her authority in the nation’s fashion industry, she is set to expand her business empire and further grow her clientele beyond the shores of Nigeria.

Spy glass gathered that the very creative designer is planning to open shops in some parts of East as well as South Africa.

Over the years, her name has become synonymous with fashion and style. This is no exaggeration as she has been faithful to her first love, fashion design for many years with several credible awards to her credit.

Since the Lagos State-born fashion designer set out to live her dream, she has been a source of encouragement and great motivation to many younger ones who see her as a good role model.

But for her love for fashion design, she would have been one of the top players in the corporate world, having bagged a master’s degree in Finance from the University of Leicester, United Kingdom.

Even in the face of stiff competition in the industry today, LDA is still a leading outfit in the industry, thanks to her ingenuity.

She is able to combine pattern, print, exquisite and even traditional fabrics to produce day wear, evening wear, gowns and cocktail dresses.

She is into formal and casual wears and enjoys designing the formal wears more, as they are tailored for more elaborate events and show more couture which the LDA brand is all about.

She recently showcased her ingenuity with her special collections in a grand style at the Arise Fashion Week show, where her outing was applauded by the audience.

SALLY MBANEFO’S COMEBACK If you say she was born under the proverbial lucky star, you are not wrong. Also, her story is nuanced with both the comic and the tragic, thereby making it not only riveting but compelling, especially for a dispassionate reader.

Welcome to the world of Sally Mbanefo. This pretty woman of substance, a former Director General, Nigerian Tourism Development Corporation, NTDC, has now returned to the public consciousness, a few months after she left office.

For those who may not know, she has just been appointed the ComSALLY MBANEFO

LANRE DA-SILVA

missioner for Artwork, Tourism and Diaspora by Anambra State Governor, Willie Obiano.

While she held sway at the NTDC, Mbanefo, who had excelled in other sectors, such as manufacturing, banking and oil and gas, among others, did her possible best to reposition the agency to the admiration of all.

But her tenure couldn’t have been described as eventful as she faced a lot of challenges.

In the end, she was removed.

For almost three years, the beauty idled away. But today, the story has changed for the 51-year-old technocrat with her recent appointment. In order words, she is dancing to the tune of victory

STEPHEN ONAOLA’S PASSION It was popular TV star, Oprah Winfrey, who was quoted to have said, “Passion is energy. Feel the power that comes from focusing on what excites you.”

Perhaps, this is the motivating factor behind the success story of Stephen Onaola. While growing up, he was known to be enamoured of enchanting lighting.

Much later in life, he took the bold step to follow his heart, when he set up his Luxury Precise Lighting.

Today, it is said that he is enjoying a lot of patronage by people who love to add colour to their houses with premium home décor accessories.

The outfit has become a Mecca as lovers of quality lighting products throng the luxury store daily for their lighting products.

Also, it is said that he has a longstanding history of quality and the tempo of the brand development has been kept and maintained in that dynamic momentum.

IBE KACHIKWU’S ORATORY Any time he is spoken about, he is always described in superlative terms, particularly for his uncommon brilliance.

Without a doubt, the Minister of State, Petroleum Resources, Ibe Kackikwu, is a delight to listen to.

Also, to say that he has an intimidating profile is to put it mildly.

Of course, the foregoing may not be news to many. But what many may not know about this technocrat is that beyond his feats in the oil sector, he is endowed with oratorical power.

At a function in Lagos recently, the minister, once again, showcased this God-given talent, which drew applause from the guests. It was

STEPHEN ONAOLA

gathered that the Delta State-born Minister mesmerised the audience that comprised top oil and gas giants, bank executives as well as businessmen.

For several minutes after his address at the opening of a corporate office of a leading oil company, many discused him and his very “loaded” speech with interest.

EX-OYO COMMISSIONER, IYIOLA HAMEED, HONOURED It was a day of glory recently when Hon. Iyiola Ambali Hameed, a former Commissioner for Agriculture in Oyo State, was installed the Ekerin Balogun Onijaye of Ijaye land in Ibadan by the Onijaiye of Ijaiye, His Royal Highness, Oba Lasisi Oladimeji Akano (Alemulera1).

The colourful ceremony, which held at the Onijaye Palace, Ijaye Orile, Akinyele Local Government Area of Oyo State, was witnessed by dignitaries, including a former Secretary to Oyo State Government, Mr. Sarafa Ali; Alhaji Isiaka Alimi, Oyo State APC Deputy Chairman, Badmus Bolaji, member, OSHA and Deacon Adebimpe Ojediran.

A number of traditional rulers, including Oniroko of Iroko, Olasunkanmi Ismaila Abioye Opeola, Onikereku of Ikereku land, high Chief Abdul Yekeen Emiola Aponmode, Baale of Aponmode land, also graced the occasion.

Hammed, who hails from Seriki Origitagbokalu Dynasty, popularly called Seriki area of Ijaiye, was born on Sunday, January 4, 1959. He attended Ijaiye High School, Federal Polytechnic, Bauchi and University of Ibadan, Oyo State, where he studied Agric and Bio-Resources Engineering and Laboratory Technology, respectively.

He was a member, Oyo State House of Assembly (1999-2003); Chairman, Caretaker Committee, Akinyele Local Government (2011-2012).

IBE KACHIKWU

IYIOLA HAMEED

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T H I S D AY ˾ Ͱͯ˜ ͰͮͯͶ

T H I S D AY ˾ SATURDAY APRIL 21, 2018

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ APRIL 21, 2018

POLSCOPE

with Eddy Odivwri eddy.odivwri@thisdaylive.com 08053069356

Buhari: The Frenemies Called National Assembly

T

he gradual build-up of tension, usually associated with impending elections, heightened last week when the Senate decided to suspend, for 90 legislative days, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, representing Delta Central senatorial district (the entire Urhobo nation) in the Senate, over what was perceived as a scathing accusation against the Senate. The suspension, penultimate Thursday, came even after the senator, had apologized for the poorly conveyed accusation. Suspending Omo-Agege was to further send warning signals to other members of the Presidential Support Group in the National Assembly, headed by Omo-Agege, to chill or be shown the way out as well.

What may have further irked the Senate was the taking of the matter to court by Senator OmoAgege. However, one unstated anger was when Omo-Agege and some other seven senators were part of a presidential delegation to condole with the late Senator Mustapha Bukar’s family, in Katsina State. The Senate President, Bukola Saraki felt peeved that another set of senators yet went on condolence visit and got greater media attention than that of the Senate’s ‘official’ team.

It only reinforced his suspicion that Omo-Agege was making moves towards splitting the Senate.

Trouble actually started long before the recent deaths in the Senate. Most of the disquiet in the National Assembly, particularly the Senate is all about the 2019 elections. It is basically a mass up against the 2019 re-election bid of President Muhammadu Buhari.

Surprisingly, Buhari seems to be having more opposition to his re-election bid from the National Assembly dominated by members of his political party—the APC. So, question is, why are his fellow partymen so determined to stop him on his tracks? Many have said the problem is that many of the National lawmakers are APC in name and PDP in spirit. And that is why someone aptly described them as frenemies (friendly enemies) to both President Buhari and the entire party structure.

The National Assembly, despite all the preachments for unity and co-operation cannot be trusted to be on the same page with the executive. There is a running state of mutual suspicion and distrust between the two arms.

Indeed, that is why the leadership of the Senate is rather hostile and intolerant of members who seem to be overtly supportive of the Buhari candidacy. One major proof of the above is the amendment of section 25 of the Electoral Act 2010 which became the last straw that broke the camel’s back.

For some weird reason, the lawmakers suddenly decided to tinker with the sequence of the general election.

In the proposed amendment, while the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) fixed the presidential and National Election for Saturday, February 16, 2019, and the governorship and State Assembly election for March 2, 2019, the lawmakers, starting from the House of Representatives, decided to reverse the sequence by making the presidential election come last. It does not require deep understanding to know that the target of such a move was the president, who seems to have lost the support of many of the members of the National Assembly, particularly the Senate.

The unstated but obvious strategy is to ensure that national lawmakers would have got elected on the platform of the party, and thereafter possibly withdraw their support during the presidential election, thus jeopardising the re-election of President Buhari.

And that was the accusation Senator Ovie Omo-Agege levelled against the Senate that drew the ire of the leadership.

But is it not true that Mr President is the target of the so-called amendment? Why are the lawmakers pretending? Do they not know?

If it were untrue, has the National Assembly given any reason—convincing or otherwise— why they jumped into the fray of changing the sequence of elections? Is that not a legislative trespass into the functions and duties of the INEC? Is it in the place of the National Assembly to determine how and when elections should be conducted?

Saraki A certain loud senator from one of the Middle Belt states tried to push the specious argument that the INEC can only determine the date of an election and not the order or sequence of it. He is very wrong! The order, date and mode of the election are all within the preserve of the INEC. No arguments about that!

It is however relieving that last Wednesday, both chambers of the National Assembly seem to have backpedalled on the move by stepping down their proposed amendments and reverting to the INEC-drawn election order.

The Genesis of the Frosty Relationship Indeed, there has been no love lost between the executive and legislative arms of government.

And it all springs from the beginning. The present leadership of the National Assembly was not those originally tipped by the stakeholders of the party. Indeed, the National Assembly has the full right of electing from among themselves whoever they want to lead them. Thus, the interference by extraneous factors and influences has, all the while, been the reason for mistrust and root cause of disquiet in the National Assembly.

The “unorthodox” means by which Saraki and Yakubu Dogara emerged as the Senate President and Speaker of the House of Representatives, respectively, thus created the foundational bad blood between both arms.

Matters were further worsened with the trial of Saraki for false assets declaration. He perceived the trial as the executive plot to destablise him and possibly edge him out of the number three position. The consequence is not only a frosty relationship and mutual suspicion, Saraki has literally held the executive by the balls, using

the trial as a bargaining chip for most actions, moves and desires of the executive. Consequently, the executive has thus not enjoyed any form of cordial cooperation from the upper chamber, contrary to the public posture.

Remotely, that explains why a month into the second quarter of the year, the 2018 budget has not been passed, with just a month or so to the full blast of the rainy season. There appears a plot to undo the Buhari government.

And if as it is said, the friend of my enemy is my enemy, then those believed to be chummy with President Buhari are rightly or wrongly, perceived as the enemies of Saraki and his ilk.

Little wonder there is an order to disband the PSG , in breach of their right to free association.

That is the denouement that explains why pro-Buhari lawmakers seem to bear the additional loathsome burden from the legislative leadership. And one of the things they suffer under Saraki’s leadership is that those perceived to be pro-Buhari are hardly allowed to speak on the floor of the Senate. That thus explains the anti-Buhari vibes that regularly echo from the red chamber. Last week, Senator Enyinnaya Harcourt Abaribe (Abia, PDP) described President Buhari, most uncouthly, as “incompetent” to the silent glee of the chamber’s leadership.

That is the same Abaribe who stood surety for Nnamdi Kanu, who has since jumped bail.

Too often, it is an acceptable pastime among the lawmakers to keep tearing down President Buhari and the APC government in a manner that queries the party affinity that should pervade the actions of the legislature from the leadership to the rank and file of the party.

Pa Amos Orovwomoriemu Ogbodo Pa Amos Orovwomoriemu Ogbodo Does the Senate Have the Powers to Suspend its Member?

Every organization has its own rules. Those rules help to keep the members in check by ensuring they observe the ethos in a bid to attain set goals. But where and when such in-house rules conflict with the constitution of the country, as the law maxim goes, those in-house rules have to be subordinated. In other words, the provisions of the constitution, as the grandnorm of the land, must prevail over every and any other set of laws.

Now, the Senate or the larger legislature is not like an ordinary town union meeting. It’s fully guided by the provisions of the Nigerian constitution, which every member has sworn to uphold. So, is there any section of the Nigerian constitution that prescribes the suspension of any lawmaker by the leadership of the legislature?

No! I dare say. The constitution approves that only death, recall by constituency and decampment from a divided party on which a lawmaker was elected, are grounds for loss of seat in the Senate, NOT suspension by its leadership.

However, under the Legislative Houses (Powers and Privileges) Act 2018, a member of a Legislative House who “is guilty of contempt” of that House may be suspended but not more than

48 hours. Dissenting is neither contemptuous nor an offence under this Act. What’s more, the Senate Rules in Order 67(4), says a senator cannot be suspended for more than 14 days.

So the question is: where did Saraki’s Senate derive the power to slam a 180-day (and ‘mercifully’ reduced to 90-day) suspension on a fellow senator? Ninety legislative days is almost eight months! Is that not an abuse of power and privilege by the Senate leadership? If Saraki, the presiding officer, as a medic, does not understand the spirit and codes of the legislative rules, does he not have a legal adviser? Are there no lawyers in the red chamber? Many lawyer-senators seem knocked into silence by the emperor-status of Saraki Yes, senators have often been suspended, almost whimsically in the past. But does that make it right? During the period of the suspension, who will fend for and project the interest of the constituency from which the suspended senator is elected? Would such suspension not deny the concerned constituents the right to representation? That is why the framers of the constitution ensured that no room was ever given for the suspension of a lawmaker. Gosh, if lawmakers do not obey their own laws, who will?

But if all the above would not convince Saraki and co that lawmakers ought not be suspended, there are subsisting judgments by established courts in the country that have ruled against it. Even Dino Melaye, while a member of the House of Reps and fought and got suspended indefinitely from the House, he challenged the suspension in court and got a judgment declaring that suspension as illegal and unconstitutional.

This is the same Melaye that is now championing the suspension of fellow senators.

Similarly, Senator Ali Ndume challenged his suspension in court in case file FHC/ABJ/ CS/551/2017 and the court ruled in his favour, few days to the expiration of his suspension.

It is against the backdrop of the many court judgments forbidding the NASS leadership from suspending its members that Ovie Omo-Agege decided to resume sitting believing that the previous judgments on the matter lifts the suspension bar against him.

In all of these rulings against the National Assembly, not on one occasion has the National Assembly appealed the rulings and got its position upheld. So which law is the leadership of the National Assembly operating? Are they law unto themselves? Surely, they cannot operate above the law of the land, just because they are lawmakers.

No! That will be a recipe for social chaos.

The Snatching of the Mace Last Wednesday, a worrisome drama took place in the hallowed chamber when certain persons stormed the Senate and snatched away the mace, after breaking through the security architecture in the National Assembly.

HRM Amos Idibiagu Ogbodo: The Glory at Dusk

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ome have it early in life, some others stumble into it midway into the course of life. And for others, it crawls gradually but assuredly unto them, just before the sun sets. The latter lot is what has become the fortune of Pa Ogbodo, the father of Abraham Obomeyoma, Ogbodo, the Editor of The Guardian, who will be crowned King today.

As you read this, we, the friends and allies of the younger Ogbodo, are converging on Oghara Agbarha-Otor, in Ughelli North Local Government Area, of Delta State to witness the coronation of Pa Amos Orovwomoriemu Ogbodo Idibiagu, as the Okpako Orere (meaning oldest man of the community) of Oghara Agbarha-Otor. The King is ascending the throne at age 104, having been born circa 1914. It is called gerontocracy—the rule by the oldest.

For the King, this is his morning. It is morning yet on creation day. Among the Urhobo, there is the belief that whenever a man wakes up is his morning. So for HRM Ogbodo

Idibiagu, this is just his morning and we cannot but relish the fresh breeze of dawn blowing the people of Agbarha today. And so we congratulate His Royal Majesty, and wish him a very long and remarkable reign on the throne.

Perhaps it is not by accident. It is genetic. Pa Idibiagu’s own father had also reigned as the Okpara-Uku (oldest man) of Orogun Kingdom, many years ago, joining his forebears in 1977.

If that follows logically, then Abraham, my boy (he never admits) will yet have a very long time to hang around on this side of the hemisphere. He has long been in the mode for a long race; what with his all-round grey hair over 15 years ago, which we thought was hasty or stress-induced. Now we know it is an established hoary sign for one destined for life’s marathon.

And in pursuance of the noble act of charity, a virtue he learnt from Orogun Grammar School, our alma mater, Abraham is also donating to his community secondary school, a block of four classrooms, which he single-handedly built and dedicates to Mama R’ode (grandma)

today. The classrooms will be officially handed over to the school authority today. It is a perfect show of giving back to the society that has brought you forth. I congratulate Abraham for the show of his Catholic spirit, all the time, almost.

Pa Ogbodo

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ APRIL 21, 2018

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EXPRESSION

MEDIAGAFFES

Confidence Vote

EBERE WABARA

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HE PUNCH of March 10 disseminated two infantile goofs: “Unknown gunmen kidnap varsity VC in A’Ibom” When will Nigerian journalists desist from using this cliché: “unknown gunmen”? Just say, ‘gunmen’! And this: “varsity VC”! My dear reader, how does it sound to your ears?

A rewrite: Gunmen kidnap VC in Akwa Ibom For the third time, let us welcome DStv, which offered two hollow blunders via its message scroll on Tuesday, April 17, 2018, to this column: “Dear subscribers, we are please to inform you that….” Enjoy this: I am pleased (take note) to inform you that reactions to this column are welcome.

“Kindly tune in for your viewing pleasure” Learn and relax: tune in to your viewing pleasure.

“Why spend 6 years for a 4 year course?”

(Advertorial in THISDAY of March 9) Electioneering: 4-year course. Punctuation marks mean so much in communication, most especially when the issue is scholarship.

Vanguard of March 8 deserves a query for this slipshoddiness: “Apparently disturbed by the spate of armed robbery in Lagos State, the IGP….” Yellow card: spate of armed robberies.

The next farcical line is from DAILY CHAMPION of March 8: “…that over six million people in Nigeria have been affected by glaucoma, which is the second leading cause of blindness in the continent of Africa.” World Glaucoma Week: on the continent of Africa.

BY

“To diffuse tension, Cottone says, discuss money and expectations up front (everything from paying rent to doing chores).”

(THE GUARDIAN Homes & Property on Wednesday, March 28) There is a world of difference between ‘defuse’, which should apply here, and ‘diffuse’ (which means another thing entirely)!

“That confidence vote on Ohakim

by Jonathan….” (DAILY CHAMPION Headline, March 4) Get it right: confidence vote in Ohakim.

“April Polls: We won’t use lethal weapons, says Police” (Vanguard Headline, March 4) Towards a better life for the people: say Police.

“Baba Ijesha in fatal accident” (Source: as above) Now the intro: “Lanre Omiyinka (a comma) popularly known as Baba Ijesha (another comma) few (a few) hours ago escaped death when he had an accident on his way to Abeokuta.” Mixed grill: The actor was involved in a ghastly accident.

“Antidote for Disfigured Emotions” (THE GUARDIAN Headline, March 4) Antidote to solecisms: pursuit after perfection.

“Customs seize smuggled vehicles with Buhari licence plates” (Leadership Headline, March 4) I do not understand this subject-verb disagreement (S-VD) which always affects the Nigerian Customs Service (Customs for short). Customs seizes…and number-plates (not licence plates).

“He saw no difficulty in re-establishing cordial relations again.” (THE PUNCH, March 9) Millennium wisdom: delete the last word in the extract.

“The corrupt politician was received from Kirikiri Maximum Prisons with celebration, pomp and pageantry.” Get

it right: pomp and ceremony, pomp and circumstance or just pomp.

“Yet these were the heydays of the Cold War but he remained fixed to his ideas, never intimidated by the West nor frightened by the East.” Remembering Julius Nyerere: heyday (uncountable).

Next of March 9 played politics with the English language on two occasions: “He says he was merely fulfilling a promise he made during his electioneering campaigns.” Zamfara of yore: get a good dictionary and thereafter yank off ‘campaigns’, which is encapsulated in ‘electioneering’. “…the fire can, and often does, turn into a mighty conflagration capable of destroying and consuming all that it meets on the way”. You can now see why we need standard reference books: is there a small conflagration? This inexplicable abuse of words must stop.

“His reasons bordered on a personal aversion for (to) charlantry” (THE NATION, March 9) “…their counsels and the judge so that people are not….” This way: ‘counsel’ is uncountable.

“What is (are) the police doing to investigate the case?”

“Who is paying the piper, dictating (calling) the tunes of the graffiti on the walls (sic)?”

“Under normal circumstances, either of these two men can represent….” (Vanguard, March 9) By the way: either cannot imply any other thing beyond ‘two’. So, avoid lexical blackmail.

“We need people of unalloyed intergrity in positions of trust.” Spell-check: integrity.

“Abia State has remained one splitted (split) entity that cannot move forward.”

ewabara@yahoo.com, 08055001948

“Though this dichotomy has endured for quite sometime now….” Politics today: some time (distinct from sometime).

“The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) have persistently called attention to….” The union…has (not have).

“If after having being duely (duly) informed of.…”

“True, the treatment meted to (meted out to) detainees and ex-convicts, especially politicians like the recently released ‘Lagos boy’, depends, to a great extent, on the financial or social status of the prisoner.”

“If what the campaigners are doing is allowed to succeed, precedence (a precedent) would have been set.” “…he had always shy (shied) away from politics but always manage (managed) to find himself in politics.”

“I think us poor Nigerians that only has (have) the rough edged (a hyphen) stick to hold at times like this….” Task forces as solution: a time like this or at times like these.

THE GUARDIAN of March 9 offered two unpardonable and extremely vexatious gaffes. “To round up the visit was the trip to the New Place, the site of the house where Shakespeare died. “ Get it right: round off (not round up). ”…the production was heavily spiced with new innovations which, however, still retained its original flavours.” ‘New innovations’ sounds illogical. An innovation cannot be old, relatively speaking. What do you think?

“What was the platform in which the cold war….” The platform on which the cold war.…

“Lack of towing vehicles hinder (hinders) FRSC operations”

Senate Invasion: True Democrats Must now Rise and Save Nigeria

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f there was ever a time when genuine lovers of democracy in Nigeria must rise and close ranks to save democracy and the country from imminent collapse, it is now. It cannot be tomorrow as any further delay only hastens the cascading descent into definitive peril. The event of April 18th, 2018 where strange persons desecrated the sublime symbol of democracy in a Gestapo invasion of the hallowed chamber of the people’s parliament and executed a heinous heist is a clarion call to save Nigeria.

All persons of goodwill who believe the sanctity of the Nigerian nation should trump partisan, pecuniary and primordial interests must now get together to build and sustain a truly formidable coalition against anti-democratic forces who believe the will and voices of the people must be subordinated to their narrow individual and group interests at whatever costs. This is time to organize and mobilize all unequal animals to forge a bond of unity and mount an unassailable crusade of redemption to dismantle the contrived status of second class citizens conferred on them by the hyenas, jackals, and lion king of the kingdom. (Apologies to first lady, Aisha Buhari, and Sen. Shehu Sani, whose metaphoric allegory of Nigeria’s Animal Farm, remains a most perspicuous redoubt of George Orwell’s classic rendition.)

In building this movement or coalition, it must be made abundantly clear that those who fail to unreservedly condemn the failed coup on democracy which was resisted and foiled by the courageous members of the National Assembly, should have no place in this massesled redemption movement. Those who hide under the guise of partisanship, personality cults, legal gymnastics, or crooked civil activism to reserve a full fledge condemnation of the attempt to truncate the soul of democracy on Wednesday, should have no role of consequence in this movement. By tacitly justifying the incidence under whatever guise or explanation, such individuals no matter their prominence or place in society or even contributions to the democratic struggles in the past, should be considered as enemies of democracy who seek the benefits thereof only to advance their selfish personal or group interests.

The rescue and redemption of Nigeria cannot be left in the hands of such Senior Advocates, elder statesmen, security experts, or whoever they are or whatever clout they hitherto commanded in the public arena. The kind of reactions that have trailed the depressing event of April 18th has unfortunately, offered the unintended benefit of revealing the true intentions of otherwise respected public figures who have been masquerading as

PEOPLE2PEOPLE WITH

OKE EPIA Telephone (sms only): 07059850016 Email: resourceman.oke@live.com.

Twitter: @resourceme

National Assembly Dome pseudo democrats in the country.

But why should this urgent call to save democracy pertinent? A thorough and unbiased introspection of the matter provides the answer. Several valid and inchoate explanations have been offered, ranging from failure of security in the National Assembly, possible collusion of the security system with the brigands who perpetrated the act, and unsubstantiated pointing of fingers to the presidency and all that. But the point that riles and

which cannot be forgivably explained away under any circumstance is that some forces brutally hacked at the very foundation of democracy in Nigeria and almost got away with it.

That the invaders operated successfully in forcefully moving the mace away from the National Assembly amidst a myriad of the ubiquitous, visible and invisible security apparatuses in the precinct and around the usually secure neighbourhood of the Three Arms Zone which hosts the Presidential Villa, the Supreme Court and the Legislature, is symptomatic of a deeper script that speaks to the urgency of the need to rise and defend democracy in Nigeria. Although the police must be commended for recovering the mace within 24hours, it is mandatory that they (alongside other security agencies) apprehend the suspects involved in this fundamental breach, no matter how highly placed. That is a necessarily part of understanding the entire nightmare and distilling measures to forestall a recurrence.

But the point that cannot be over-emphasized is that attempts to explain the disastrous happenstance as permissible must be debunked strongly. Intelligence failure, conspiracy of security agents, disagreement with the way and manner of the suspension of Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, love for President Muhammadu Buhari, or disdain for Bukola Saraki and his leadership style in the Senate, can never be acceptable or sufficient reasons for what happened on Wednesday to have occurred.

Because at the end of the day, it would not be about Saraki, Buhari, the APC or PDP; it would not be about IGP Idris or Lawal Daura of the DSS; or would it be about who gets what and how in 2019. It would neither be about Bola Tinubu nor Mamman Daura. It would not be about Ike Ekweremadu and the undeclared foreign assets he is alleged to own or hoe he colluded with Saraki to outwit the APC in June 2015. It would not even be about Olusegun Obasanjo and his suspicious and agenda-laden Coalition for New Nigeria, or the reticent General in Minna that is locked in a conversation of the deaf with his conscience over the infamous annulment of the June 12, 19993 presidential elections considered to be Nigeria’s best missed chance to have exited its many contradictions of statehood.

It would be about the grim reality of a disemboweled democracy and enthronement of unbridled dictatorship; it would be about a possible collapse of the entity called Nigeria and the balkanization of a once promising nation that we all could gift to the rest of the world. The realities are dreary and dreadful. Will true and genuine democrats now rise and avert a looming catastrophe?

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ ͺ͹˜ ͺ͸͹Ͷ

Rolls-Royce Takes Bespoke to new Heights With Wraith Luminary Collection

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Ford Mustang

Ford Mustang is World’s Best-Selling Sports Coupe 3 Years Straight Stories by Bennett Oghifo

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lobal demand for the new 2018 Ford Mustang has driven Mustang to its third straight year as the best-selling sports coupe in the world, the automaker has said.

Global Mustang registrations in 2017 totaled 125,809 cars, according to Ford analysis of the most recent new light vehicle registration data from IHS Markit. This data – compiled from government and other sources and capturing 95 percent of global new vehicle volumes in more than 80 countries – puts Mustang ahead of all other sports coupe

competitors worldwide.

“Demand for Mustang continues to be very strong, especially overseas, where until recently people couldn’t get their hands on one,” says Erich Merkle, Ford sales analyst.

“Even more encouraging is that the updated 2018 Mustang is just now getting rolled out to export markets.”

Of the nearly 126,000 vehicles registered worldwide, Ford reported 81,866 of those were registered in the United States, meaning just over one-third of all Mustang registrations are occurring in export markets. Demand remains particularly strong in China, where Mustang was the best-selling sports coupe last year based on 7,125 registrations.

The most popular configuration world-

wide is the Mustang GT with the 5.0-liter V8. Collectors and prospective buyers can get their hands on this beautiful piece of machinery through Coscharis Motors, Ford’s representative in Nigeria.

While sports cars have traditionally skewed toward male buyers in the United States, Mustang is increasingly finding favor with women. In an environment of relatively flat sports car sales to women, Ford research shows a 10 per cent gain in women buying Mustang in the last five years.

Since global exports began in 2015, through December 2017, Ford has sold 418,000 Mustangs around the world.

Sports coupes, as defined by IHS Markit, include two-door and convertible models.

n a bold expression of dynamic luxury, RollsRoyce unveils the Wraith Luminary Collection.

Inspired by those who lead where others follow, the Wraith Luminary Collection will light the way for the luxury trailblazer.

In response to an ongoing global demand for Rolls-Royce Collection Cars, the marque has created a Limited Collection of just 55 of these spectacular Wraiths. These motor cars join the highly exclusive ranks of collectible Bespoke masterpieces, envisioned by the Rolls-Royce Bespoke design team and collected by Patrons of true luxury all over the world.

TorstenMüller-Ötvös,ChiefExecutiveOfficer,RollsRoyce Motor Cars, commented, “Wraith Luminary is a stunning Collection Car. It speaks directly of our contemporary Rolls-Royce brand – progressive and trailblazing; the pinnacle in hand-crafted luxury.

This is a motor car that celebrates visionaries who achieve eminence in their respective fields. Indeed, this collection is for the world’s luminaries.”

The heady shade of the golden hour’s sunrays inspire this newly developed exterior paint, Sunburst Grey.

One is met by a flat grey that enlivens when awoken by the sun, rich copper tones, emitting a deep emotive warmth. Further intrigue is added by a hand-painted Sunburst Motif coachline, handpainted Wake Channel Lines on Wraith’s bonnet and pinstripes applied to the wheel centres, each in Saddlery Tan, bearing reference to the colourway of the interior leather.

Energy courses through this highly charged edition of Wraith. On opening the coach doors, one is met by a statement of modern luxury, as light flows from the front into the rear passenger compartment. The Collection’s defining feature, Tudor Oak wood, sourced from the forests of the Czech Republic, selected for its depth of colour and the density of the grain structure, is for the first time, illuminated. The light of 176 LEDs permeates through an intricately perforated design in the unique Tudor Oak veneer, allowing a mesmerizing pattern, reminiscent of the trailing light of a shooting star, to luminesce at the touch of a button. Linked to the controls of the starlight headliner, the cabin’s veneer surrounds Wraith’s occupants in an ambient glow of light.

Automobili Lamborghini Crosses Billion Euro Excitement as TATA Unveils 200th Turnover Threshold

Locally Assembled Vehicle

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he Nigerian Automotive Industry Development Plan (NAIDP) or automotive policy, last week, recorded another milestone when Tata Africa Services (Nigeria) Limited rolled out the 200th locally assembled Tata-badged vehicle in collaboration with its partner, Iron Products Industries Ltd. It was indeed a celebrative atmosphere at the IPI Ltd in Ikotun, Lagos, as auto industry chieftains, including the Director, Industrial Infrastructure, National Automotive Design and Development Council{NADDC],welcomedthegarlandedTATA 16-18C light truck at the plant.

In a symbolic gesture, the dummy key to the 200th TATA truck was presented to one of the brand’s loyal corporate customers, Cobil Nigeria Limited.

The Managing Director, Mrs. O. F. Iloanusi, and one of the directors, D. Iloanusi, received the key to the TATA truck on behalf of Cobil.

Predictably, both TATA and IPI management used the unveiling ceremony to reiterate their commitment to the development of the local auto industry through the production of good quality vehicles designed to meet the needs of the local market.

While assuring that increase in local content would lead to more competitively priced vehicles, the partners called for increased encouragement for the industry and the elimination of impediments to growth and development, including the influx of used vehicles.

In his remarks, the Head of theAuto Division, Tata Africa Services (Nigeria), Suraj Prakash, assured the guests that in producing its vehicles in Nigeria, the fourth largest trucks maker in the world, would continue to pursue a local content programme that would ensure competitive pricing.

“TATA Motors has a strong presence in Nigeria with investment of over 10 million dollars. We started assembly in 2016 in Nigeria which was

L-R: Director, Industrial Infrastructure, NADDC, Waheed Odetoro; D. Iloanusi of Cobil Nigeria Limited; MD of Cobil, Mrs. O. F. Iloanusi; Head of Auto Division, Tata Africa Services (Nigeria), Suraj Prakash; and Director of IPI Limited, Philip Diwan, during the presentation of the key to the 200th Tata assembled in Nigeria to a loyal corporate customer, Cobil, in Lagos, recently well received by Nigerians.

“Our vehicles are well assembled and cost effective and it is better. Our vehicles are durable, up to standard and made for the Nigerian terrain. We will like to have more of government’s support on automobile policy because importation of tokunbo {second-hand} vehicles is of great disadvantage.

“Our vehicles are not expensive because most of the materials are sourced locally, so the cars are cost effective,’’ he said.

The Managing Director of IPI Ltd, Nunu Diwan,

disclosed that his company which is the leader in steel fabrication in the country, went into partnership with TATA Motors, following the introduction of the auto policy by the Federal Government, Stating that the plant assembled about four TATA trucks daily, Divan informed the guests that capacity utilisation could be increased if the need arose, even as he hinted of plans to move from assembling of the vehicles to actual manufacturing by sourcing most of the components locally.

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n Fiscal Year 2017 (31.12.2017), Automobili Lamborghini S.p.A. achieved new historic landmarks. The Italian super sports car brand from Sant’Agata Bolognese increased worldwide sales by ten percent from 3,457 to 3,815 units. Thus, sales grew for the seventh consecutive year and almost tripled since 2010 (1,302 units).

Turnover exceeded one billion Euro for the first time in the company’s history, increasing from 906 Mio. Euro to 1,009 Mio. Euro (+11%). In spite of high upfront expenditures, Lamborghini also succeeded in reaching a sound positive operating result, confirming the robustness of its growth path. In preparation for market introduction of its third model line, the Super SUV Urus, the total headcount in 2017 increased from 1,415 to almost 1,600 employees.

Outlook 2018 The company confirms a confident outlook for the Fiscal Year 2018. With a young and attractive product portfolio as well as entry in the growing SUV segment Lamborghini sets fresh impetus for future growth. Especially the introduction of the Urus on the markets starting in spring 2018 opens new dimensions of unit sales, turnover and profitability for the company.

Stefano Domenicali, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Automobili Lamborghini said: “Lamborghini realized another record year and we are once more outperforming our financial objectives.

This was achieved while mastering an unprecedented double challenge: preparing for new models in our super sports car range, while simultaneously doubling production capacities at our headquarters in Sant’Agata Bolognese, heralding a quantum leap in our product portfolio.

This could not have been accomplished without our excellent team, which deserves all the credit.”

Lamborghini is a global brand and its sales distribution is well balanced among the three regions, which each account for approximately one third of global sales.

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ ͺ͹˜ ͺ͸͹Ͷ

27

Volvo XC60 Wins World Car of the Year 2018

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L-R: Executive Director, Prestige Assurance Plc., Sarbeswar Sahoo; Sales Director, Tyre Express Nigeria Limited, Sunday Musa; MD/CEO, Prestige Assurance Plc., Dr. Balla Swammy; Group CEO, DWA International, Mr. Govindram; Executive Director, Tyre Express Nigeria Limited, Gautam Singh Ghai; and Country Manager, Somotomo South-Africa, Pinaki Sarkar, at the presentation of Tyre Express’ Tyre Damage Guarantee in Lagos… recently

Tyre Express Introduces Damage Guarantee in Nigeria Stories by Bennett Oghifo

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yre Express has introduces the “Tyre Damage Guarantee”- TDG for the first time in Nigeria.

This is characteristic of its vision of being “Africa’smostadmiredTechnology-driven tyre distribution company,” according to company officials.

Under this guarantee, every purchase of Passenger

or SUV tyres at any Tyre Express Nigeria Limited fitment centres countrywide, automatically qualifies for Tyre Damage Guarantee.

While commenting on the new development, Mr. GovindramAppukuttan CEO of the group said “We will remain at the forefront of introducing innovative services that benefit our customers across all countries where we operate and in keeping with our promise of “customer first” we bring to Nigerians for the very first time a hassle-free drive with our “Tyre Damage Guarantee” offering.

Dr. Balla Swamy, MD/CEO of PrestigeAssurance Plc, while launching the new special contingency policy informed that “Tyre Protection Insurance Policy” is unique and first of its kind in Nigeria, which is aimed at give the vehicle owners a peace of mind against the damage of tyres due to various unforeseen reasons. Moreover, the partnership with Tyre Express Nigeria Ltd will definitely give a value-added service and enhance the satisfaction of the mutual customers in the process of carrying out the business and serving the community.

he new Volvo XC60 midsize SUV has been named World Car of the Year 2018 at the New York Auto Show, adding another accolade to Volvo’s growing list.

The XC60 also scooped the prestigious NorthAmerican Utility of the YearAward earlier this year, while the XC40 small SUV was named European Car of the Year at the Geneva Motor Show earlier this month. The World Car of the Year win is the first in this competition for Volvo Cars, the premium car maker.

“I am pleased to see our company’s product investments paying off,” said Håkan Samuelsson, president and CEO of Volvo Cars. “We are up against some tough competition, but this award for the XC60 show that Volvo has the right combination of design, connectivity and safety that appeals to customers across the world.”

In the new XC60, Euro NCAP’s best overall performer in 2017, Volvo’s City Safety Autonomous Emergency Braking system has been enhanced with steering support for when automatic braking alone may not help avoid a potential collision. In addition Oncoming Lane Mitigation with SteerAssist which helps mitigate head-on collisions and Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) with SteerAssist functionality has been added to reduce the risk of lane-changing collisions.

XC60 is available with a range of diesel and petrol engines as well as Volvo Cars’ awardwinning T8 Twin Engine petrol plug-in hybrid at the top of the powertrain range, delivering 407hp and acceleration from 0-100km in just 5.3 seconds.

These two accolades come hot on the heels of Mr Samuelsson’s World Car Person of the Year recognition, awarded by the same panel of international media in Geneva earlier this month. Mr Samuelsson was given this inaugural award in recognition of his work in driving the success of Volvo Cars in recent years.

Hyundai Motors Nigeria Begins Vehicle Service Clinic

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yundaiMotorsNigeriaLimited(HMNL) has urged customers to take advantage of its comprehensive 30-day service campaign, which began this week to tune-up their vehicles and avoid undue cessations and unwarranted cost implications.

The company’s Head of Service - Srinivas Jayaram gave the advice in Lagos at the inauguration of Hyundai inclusive vehicle maintenance tagged ‘Hyundai car care clinic.’

Intended for vehicle owners and fleet managers includingHyundaicommercialvehicles,Mr.Jayaram said the promotional routine vehicle upkeep will help customers appreciate Hyundai driving experience and the dealership’s commitment to the brand.

He said up to 25% discount on value added services, including 20% discount on mechanical repairs as well as 20% discount on body repair parts and 10% discount on labour charges will be permitted during the campaign, which also offers free 25-point-checkup. The sequence of checkup,

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pril 12, 2018 will forever remain significant in the global fight to rid the world’s roads of avoidable deaths arising from road traffic crashes which kills about 1.3million drivers, passengers and pedestrians yearly and up to 50million injured on the world’s roads. It was the day set aside for the launch of the United Nation Road Safety Trust Fund earlier adopted by the General Assembly comprising membership of all 139 member States. The launch was a major step in addressing the global road traffic crashes. I was privileged to receive an invitation from the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) to attend the launch held in New York, a city I have never been to. However, my joy and excitement was soured because just a week or two before the launch, the world was reminded of the deeply distressing tragedies in Canada and India which left families and communities distraught.

Like I said earlier my excitement to visit New York and also witnessed history was cut short when Channels Television few days after scrolled on its news belt two tragedies involving school children in India and Canada.

The death toll from both crashes was alarming not just in terms of the number killed but the fact that the victims were mostly school children who were as young as four years.

Both crashes from available information were avoidable as probable causes of the Canadian crash was the failure of the trailer driver to yield to a stop sign before crossing

according to Mr. Jayaram also include free engine diagnosis with report, battery test with report, a/c gas quality, wiper blade replacement, body damage and generous brake assessments.

Customers can also take advantage of special prices on upholstery cleaning, engine steam wash, wheel alignment and balancing as well as body wax, the HMNL head of service assured.

“The Hyundai ‘Car Care Clinic’ is a rare opportunity for desiring customers’ to tune-up their vehicles to avoid undue cessations and unwarranted cost implications.”

Also adding that the dealership understands the evolving needs and preferences of Hyundai, HMNL’s head of service cautioned that “the service campaign is pertinent to 2015 and prior models, and subject to part availability.”

Whilst the offer may be accessed at Hyundai facilities in Abuja and Port-Harcourt, customers in and around Lagos are to use the Orile, Ijesha workshops as well as the Hyundai Commercial Vehicle Centre at Isolo.

Hyundai service centre at Orile, Lagos

The School Bus Tragedies In Canada And India SAFE DRIVING with

JONAS AGWU

amnipr, mcipr,mprsa,arpa (Corps Commander) Corps Public Education Officer Federal Road Safety Corps. + 2348033026491

over on to the highway that the hockey bus was travelling in addition to poor visibility on both roads caused by a stand of trees on the southeast corner of the intersection. The Indian crash was caused by speed and the resulting loss of control. The two school bus crashes remind of the piece I did about a month ago title, ‘’Averting the school bus tragedies.

Although I was saddened by the tragedies, their occurrence barely few days or a week before the April 12 event in New York was a sour and sad reminder to world leaders on the need to fast tract every intervention to save the world from such tragedies’. The tragedies especially the one in India reminded me of one of the piece I did long ago which I culled from Professor Deenish, my Indian Professor who wrote a piece I could not ignore titled, Carmagedon! The hidden war between motor cars and people. Let me refresh you with part of what he said in that piece- ‘’there is a

silent, ongoing, global war between motor cars and people. It is silent because though it kills many more people than armed conflicts and terrorist acts combined, it seldom hits the headlines the way they do. It is ongoing because it rages and will continue to rage around us day and night. And it is global because though it started in the rich world just over a century ago, it has spread throughout the world and is now spreading like wild fire through poor countries’’.

Let me start with the tragedy in Canada. According to news report, the crash occurred when a semi trailer slammed into a bus carrying a youth hockey team to a playoff game in western Canada.28people including the driver were on board the bus of the Humboldt Broncos hockey team when the crash occurred around 5pm on Highway 35 in Saskatchewan, killing 15 people and injuring 14 in a collision that a doctor compared to an airstrike and left the vehicles obliterated in the snow. In the words of the Canadian Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau,“An entire country is in shock and mourning,” “This is every parent’s worst nightmare. No one should ever have to see their child leave to play the sport they love and never come back.”In a tweet, U.S. President Donald Trump said he called Trudeau to offer his condolences to the families of victims. Darren This crash according to reports could have been avoided if the tractor-trailer had yielded

to a stop sign before crossing over the highway that the hockey bus was travelling on. It also notes that there is a stand of trees on the southeast corner of the intersection; limiting visibility of the approach on both roads. Police said a lot of issues have to be investigated, including weather conditions at the time and any mechanical issues with the vehicles The Indian bus tragedy was no different. Like the Canadian crash, this crash was caused by the mistake of the driver which killed at least 27 children ,some as young as four after a school bus plunged off a mountain road overnight into a deep gorge in the Himalayan foothills about 500 kilometers north of New Delhi. Four adults also died. Ten children were hospitalized. Initial reports indicated the bus driver was speeding as he took the children home and lost control at the edge of the gorge.

The bus fell some 60 meters to the ground below. India’s roads, particularly in the hills, are feared for their deep potholes, reckless drivers and often a lack of guardrails. “I am deeply anguished by the loss of lives,” Prime Minister Narendra Modi said in a tweet.“My prayers and solidarity with those who lost their near and dear ones.”What these tragedies have shown is that while improved road infrastructure is key, consistent driver education must remain a priority not just in developing but also developed countries.

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GLOBAL SOCCER A

WEEKLY PULL-OUT

FA CUP SUCCESS IN MIND PAGE. 29

21.04.2018

Arsene Wenger

The Brilliant Revolutionary Takes a Bow

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The Brilliant Revolutionary Takes a Bow ÜÝÏØËÖ ÐËØÝ ÝÙÙØ ÍÒËØÑÏÎ ÞÒÏ ÐË×ÙßÝ ÚÖËÍËÜÎ̋ ˩ Ø ÜÝÏØÏ áÏ ÜßÝÞ˪ ÞÙ ˩ àÏÜã ÙÙÎ ÞÙÜã ÒËÝ ËØ ØÎ˪ ËʰÏÜ ÜÝÏØÏ ÏØÑÏÜ˪Ý ͹ͼ ãÏËÜÝ áËÝ áÓÞÒÙßÞ Ë ÜÏ×ÓÏÜ ÏËÑßÏ ÞÓÞÖϘ ÌßÞ ÒÓÝ ÝßÍÍÏÝÝ ËØÎ Ó×ÚËÍÞ ÙØ ØÑÖÓÝÒ ÐÙÙÞÌËÖÖ ÒÙáÏàÏÜ ÝÞÓÖÖ ×ËÎÏ ÒÓ× ÙØÏ ÙÐ ÞÒÏ ÝÚÙÜÞ̳Ý ×ÙÝÞ ÝÓÑØÓʨÍËØÞ ÚÏÜÝÙØËÖÓÞÓÏÝ ÙÐ ÞÒÏ ×ÙÎÏÜØ ÏÜË

T

he Arsene Wenger era - a story that started at Ewood Park against Blackburn Rovers on October 12, 1996, is finally over after his decision to step down as Arsenal manager.

Wenger's name is synonymous with Arsenal after winning three Premier Leagues, a record seven FA Cups and six Charity/Community Shields, as well as overseeing the move from Highbury to Emirates Stadium in 2006, an arena that will stand as a monument to his achievements.

The 68-year-old Frenchman, who won the league and FA Cup double in 1998 and 2002, has become an increasingly divisive figure among Arsenal fans, as the club have gone 14 years without a Premier League title, but his success and impact on English football has made him one of the sport's most significant personalities of the modern era.

Wenger signed a new two-year contract after beating Chelsea to win the FA Cup in 2017, but dismal league form Arsenal are 14 points off a top-four place and have no away wins in 2018 - added to increasing fan discontent and declining attendances, making his departure inevitable.

Wenger stuck to his principles even in the face of mounting criticism. But, ultimately, was he the manager who changed everything in English football and then paid the price for not changing himself?

'Arsene who?' The French revolutionary "Arsene Who?" was one infamous headline that greeted Wenger's arrival on his appointment after a 19-month spell at Nagoya Grampus Eight in Japan, having previously won Ligue 1 in France with a Monaco side boasting England international Glenn Hoddle.

Arsenal season ticket holder and shareholder Darren Epstein, one of the most respected fan voices on Twitter with a following of 127,000, recalls: "Like most fans I'd never heard of him.

"We didn't have 24-hour news, live games from around Europe and, given that he was in Japan at the time, his profile was very low."

It soon became clear, however, that English football was witnessing the arrival of the man who would change the

landscape forever with his approach to tactics, diet - instantly banning chocolate as a pre-match snack - and the culture of professional players.

Former defender Martin Keown, who was in Wenger's first Arsenal line-up, told BBC Sport: "My first thought on Arsene was: 'Do nice guys win things?'

"He would shake my hand three times in the morning.

There was genuine warmth."

Daily Mirror chief football writer John Cross, author of Arsene Wenger: The Inside Story Of Arsenal Under Wenger, first covered the club for the Islington Gazette and has reported on his reign through 21 years as a national reporter.

He said: "My reaction was like everyone else. It felt like Arsenal were taking a huge gamble in an era when foreign managers were almost unheard of. Let's not forget he was the first foreign manager to win the Premier League."

Wenger, having replaced Bruce Rioch, would provide the answer to the doubters in the months ahead as he moulded the modern Arsenal on to the platform left behind by their former title-winning boss George Graham.

The revolution was swiftly into full swing with scientific methods that would shape the Gunners' success, starting with a Premier League title and FA Cup triumph in his first full season.

Keown, who made 449 appearances for Arsenal, said: "Looking back, it was a good marriage of old and new. He thought I could play and would say, 'Martin, you can pass the ball', after I was told it was an area I was not great at.

"The training sessions were different every day, always variation. We worked on clipping balls into players, movement, running off the ball. We did it without opposition - we used mannequins.

"We'd never seen a mannequin before - most of the lads probably thought it was a brand of cigar."

Wenger made his changes, if not by stealth, then in a manner acceptable to players at a club with a well-known and publicised drinking culture.

"Arsene came in at a time when players were ready to change," said Keown, who had two spells at the club.

"Arsene was clever in that he didn't tell us to do things. He would bring in professionals to spread his message, otherwise

it might have been like a child saying: 'Oh, Dad, I'm fed up listening to you.'

"He delegated well. There were lots of different messages from different professionals. There was a sports scientist talking about stretching, conditioning and training; a dietician doing blood tests; a doctor talking about the importance of vitamin C, iron and B12.

"There were slogans like 'chew to win' and 'sip to win'. We took the mick - but more significantly we took it on board."

"Arsene Who?" was putting Arsenal's foundations in place and blazing a trail for foreign managers.

Only two, Osvaldo Ardiles and Ruud Gullit, had worked in the Premier League before him - and he was to set the pace, template and trend for others.

From Christian Gross arriving at Spurs in 1997 to Javi Gracia at Watford this season there have been 54 foreign coaches to manage at least one game in the Premier League since Wenger was appointed at Arsenal.

Wenger will be remembered as the manager who opened the doors.

Wenger's glory years - the great alchemist Wenger brought a golden age to Arsenal between 1998 and 2004, the early months of the 1996-97 season almost being used as a fact-finding mission for the era that culminated in "The Invincibles" going a 38-game Premier League season unbeaten to win the title 14 years ago.

In the 30 league games of his first season, Wenger's win ratio was only 46.7% - but 12 months later it had been transformed to a title-winning 60.5% as he proved himself to be the master of innovation, tactical mastery and alchemy.

Wenger welded the steel of the Graham era, with the famous defence containing goalkeeper David Seaman, Keown, Tony Adams, Steve Bould, Lee Dixon and Nigel Winterburn on to new, emerging, world-class purchases.

Midfielders Patrick Vieira and Emmanuel Petit were brought in, plus attacking talents Thierry Henry, Marc Overmars, Robert Pires and Nicolas Anelka - a 17-year-old signed from Paris St-Germain for £500,000 in February 1997 and sold to Real Madrid in the summer of 1999 for £22.3m.

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APRIL 21, 2018 ˾ THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER

GLOBAL SOCCER And he was, of course, bequeathed one of Ngreatest jewels of all in Dennis Bergkamp, the who was signed by Rioch.

"Arsene signed great players and then made them greater, which brought us that period of success," added Keown. "Bruce Rioch thought that famous defence was finished, but they weren't. We understood everyone else's role and Arsene was clever enough to realise that element of management was being done for him on the pitch.

"He will be seen as a great visionary and that was just a wonderful period when we were all part of a beautiful transformation."

Trophies were gathered ruthlessly but stylishly. Three league titles, including those domestic doubles in 1998 and 2002 and the start of that collection of seven FA Cups.

Wenger's initial win ratio started to rise, reaching a pinnacle of 68.4% in the titlewinning seasons of 2001-02 and 2003-04.

Epstein revelled in the joy of being an Arsenal supporter, enthralled by what Wenger produced, saying: "He mixed old Arsenal, tradition with a new way.

"Despite popular belief, Arsenal were not boring under George Graham - but the difference was if we scored our defence would shut out the opposition, so that is initially what Arsene Wenger mixed.

"It meant we had a core of players fans could relate to but who stayed in the team because they deserved to. He also brought teams together that were unbelievable to watch. We played Middlesbrough, Blackburn and Portsmouth, to name a few, whose fans applauded us off."

It was a potent mixture of new silk and old steel. Wenger had the materials when he arrived but his revolutionary approach, his ability to take the best of the old and blend it with his modern approach, turned it into a silver-lined Arsenal era.

And what was this side like to face?

Phil Neville was at the heart of some of the greatest physical, mental, tactical and technical battles amid the great rivalry between Manchester United and Arsenal.

Recalling those encounters between Sir Alex Ferguson's side and the one managed by his greatest threat, Wenger, the former United player told BBC Sport: "His teams were horrible to play against, absolutely horrible. And make no mistake that is praise not a criticism.

"They were tough but technically superb.

He inherited a dressing room with great characters who could all play and then signed more - and sometimes you need the characters more than talent.

"He moulded them into even better characters and, more importantly, even better footballers. All of a sudden, the type of football they were playing was a mix between power, speed and subtlety.

"My best memory of my career was the battles I had with Arsenal. They were so good we had to play differently against them. We had to change our tactics. We had to be aggressive on and off the ball. We had to disrupt the rhythm of Arsenal because if you let them get into a rhythm they were unstoppable. There were times when they did and they beat us easily.

"They were Premier League games that were on a different level to any other Premier League game I've ever played in. These games were, in terms of level of quality, almost like a Champions League game - with that real eyeballs-out concentration."

It was an era with its lows, such as losing the 2000 Uefa Cup final on penalties to Galatasaray of Turkey after a goalless draw and the 2001 FA Cup final defeat by Liverpool - but few could have imagined the day of "The Invincibles" marked the beginning of the end G LO B A L S O C C E R ASSISTANT EDITOR KUNLE ADEWALE THISDAY ON SATURDAY EDITOR SHAKA MOMODU DEPUTY EDITOR YEMI ADEBOWALE THISDAY NEWSPAPERS EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO

DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR KAYODE KOMOLAFE

of the glory years.

The long road to decline When the 41-year-old Jose Mourinho swept into Stamford Bridge on 2 June 2004 and christened himself "The Special One", it would have been hard to imagine his new rival Wenger would never win another Premier League.

So was the arrival of the brash, outspoken, confrontational Mourinho - fresh from winning the Champions League with Porto - the day the success died for Wenger?

Wenger, who was able to cope with the rivalry with Manchester United counterpart Ferguson, was suddenly trapped in a toxic relationship with a manager who got under his skin - and more significantly was in charge of a successful team that got the better of Arsenal.

Wenger did not manage a league win in 12 meetings with Mourinho until Arsenal defeated Manchester United last May. When it counted, he did not come out on top.

Wenger's overall win ratio remained high but Mourinho's was better. The 2004-05 season was a perfect example. Arsenal delivered a 65.8% rate, only to be outdone by Chelsea's remarkable 76.3% record as the title returned to Stamford Bridge for the first time in 50 years.

The Frenchman could never reclaim the title he won regularly, taunted by Mourinho as a "voyeur" when it came to Chelsea's successes and, most damningly, "a specialist in failure".

So was Mourinho the man who started the downfall that led to an increasingly outdated and outflanked Wenger?

Wenger's refusal to depart from his trusted methods saw him left behind, a decline underlined by the new Premier League breed of not just Mourinho - who returned after successes at Inter Milan and Real Madrid to win the title once more at Chelsea in 2015 - but coaches like Chelsea title-winner Antonio Conte, Liverpool's Jurgen Klopp, Tottenham's Mauricio Pochettino and, of course, Pep Guardiola as he brought his purist, modern modus operandi to Manchester City.

As Arsenal were outclassed in the 2018 Carabao Cup final by Guardiola's City, the contrast in the technical areas was stark.

Guardiola was the symbol of modernism, while Wenger looked tired and struggling for new inspiration.

Brutally and ruthlessly, Guardiola looked like the man Wenger used to be.

"Historically, people will look back on Jose coming in. Football moves very quickly," said former Chelsea winger and BBC Sport analyst Pat Nevin.

"The pace of change, particularly tactically, has been extraordinary over the past 10 or 15 years, arguably more than ever before.

"It has adapted and changed, and people have adapted and changed with it. The thing about Arsene is that he has not really - so Jose Mourinho is a good point at which to start.

"And when you have a new group like Conte, Guardiola and Klopp all arriving at the same time, as they did and with Pochettino putting his stamp on Spurs, it accentuates that and makes it more obvious. We can all see it.

When Jose comes in, you think that's a quantum leap. Arsene didn't adapt to that level."

So was Wenger guilty of presiding over what ended as a damaging period of stagnation?

"He did change everything and then stuck to his guns - but one man's sticking to his guns is another man's belligerence and unwillingness to change," added Nevin.

"They are both the same thing, just a different viewpoint on it. When you're successful, it looks like the former. When you're not, it's the latter.

"The question is whether he should have maybe left last year. If he wins the Europa League he has done the right thing in staying, but if he doesn't, even losing in the final, then people will say he didn't."

The once-visionary Wenger has maintained his fire still burns.

But in his latter days the fires seemed to burn more fiercely in others - including Conte, in his first season at Chelsea at least, Klopp as he reinvigorates Liverpool, his rival Mauricio Pochettino at Spurs (although Wenger can point to greater recent successes in terms of trophies) and Guardiola.

Wenger may not have lost his desire but was he the innovator and master of adaptation who eventually failed to adapt?

Cross defends Wenger fiercely on this criticism.

He said: "Along comes a new style with Klopp's pressing, Conte's wing-backs and defending. Do you honestly think that if we can see the difference, Arsene Wenger can't?

Some experts drive me mad ridiculing him, believing they know more. I actually applaud him for sticking to his principles."

– Culled from BBC Sports

Wenger with Ferguson

VGC, Native FC Dominate at Nike Soccer Tourney

T

he maiden edition of the Nike Homecoming football competition came to a thrilling end recently with VGC FC and Native FC emerged champions of the tournament.

The three-day event, which was a mixture of music, art and sport was organised by Boy Better Know Africa and the sporting segment of the event was curated by BallOff and took place at Upbeat Centre in Lekki.

The football tournament was in two fold with the first made up of mixture of male and female players from various backgrounds, as well as local academies.

The second part of the tournament had an array of international celebrities and social influencers which included the Nigerian/ British musician Skepta and others.

In the first tournament final, VGC FC defeated Chad FC by 2 - 1 to win that category

of the tournament.

Whilst Immaculate FC defeated Industry Fc by 2 - 0 to win the third place match. The other teams that featured in this category were, YM FC and FBG FC. The second part of the tournament had various celebrities battling it out for the coveted first place position. Former Super Eagles players such as Daniel Amokachi, Garba Lawal, Ike Shorunmi, Julius Aghahowa and Taribo West also graced the event by playing a novelty match with the All Star team selected from the celebrity tournament.

The Ex-internationals won their match 2 -1.

At the closing ceremony, the Brand Communications Manager, Nike football, Mr. Neil Potter, said that the company's aim of organising the tournament is to create a meaningful cultural exchange which was certainly achieved.

Kwesé TV to Air Fed Cup Semi-finals

K

wesé TV through its exclusive sports channel, Kwesé Sports 2 will continue its coverage of the Fed Cup by bringing its audiences the semi-finals scheduled for 21- 22 April.

France will host the USA in the semifinals of the Fed Cup on an indoor clay court in Aix-en-Provence, France.

USA is pitted against France’s Kristina Mladenovic, Pauline Parmentier and Amandine Hesse while in the USA roster are; US Open champion, Sloane Stephens; world number 13 and US Open runner-up, Madison Keys; 16th-ranked Coco Vandeweghe and former doubles player, Bethanie

Mattek-Sands.

In another semi-final match, 10-time Fed Cup champions, Czech Republic will faceoff with Germany at the Porshe Arena in Stuttgart, Germany. This showdown will also air on Kwesé Sports 2, channel 305.

Kwesé Sports holds rights to some of the most popular sporting leagues such as the Carabao Cup, Copa del Rey, NBA and NFL. It holds rights for the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia and will broadcast all 64 matches live from 14 June to 15 July 2018.

Kwesé is also the exclusive home of ESPN offering 24 hours of comprehensive sports coverage.

Ademiluyi Tennis Foundation to Hold Clinic for Players

I

n line with the vision of the Ademiluyi Tennis Foundation, plans are in top gear to conduct clinic for the top players to fast-track their development.

Prince Adeyinka Ademiluyi disclosed this as the 14th Annual Dr. Joseph Ademiluyi Tennis Tournament came to a colourful end last Saturday at the Lagos Country Club, Ikeja .

Speaking on behalf of the Management Committee, Ademiluyi noted that the playing standard has improved and added the tournament is now very competitive hence the need to keep the momentum by selecting the promising players for a clinic which he promised will be conducted by a top tennis expert.

Lagos Country Club President, Tajudeen

Akande expressed gratitude to the Ademiluyi family for keeping to their dad’s wish who was an ex-trustee and a chairman of the section. He noted that the tournament has helped discovered players for Nigeria as some of the kids are playing for Nigeria at junior level.

Filippo Trombi clinched the boys’ U 16 title while Olamide Aluko clinched the girls’ version. Toluwalase Dele-Oshiga and Sidiq Omope won the boys’ under 14 A and B respectively while Tobi Ayoola and Nathaniel Aluko won the Orange ball A and B. Duro Adewunmi won the Red ball Aand Temiloluwa Dele-Oshiga was winner of the Red ball B. Over 80 kids featured in the week-long tournament.

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER Ëž ÍşÍšËœ ͺ͸͚΀

Man U, Spurs Seek FA Cup Success Ă‹Ă˜Ă?Ă’Ă?Ă?ĂžĂ?Ăœ Ă˜Ă“ĂžĂ?ĂŽ Ă’Ă?Ă‹ĂŽ Ă“Ă˜ĂžĂ™ ÞÙÎËã̳Ă? Ă&#x;Ăš Ă?Ă?Ă—Ă“Ă?Ă“Ă˜Ă‹Ă– Ă‹Ă‘Ă‹Ă“Ă˜Ă?Ăž ÙÞÞĂ?Ă˜Ă’Ă‹Ă— ÙÞĂ?ĂšĂ&#x;Ăœ Ă˜Ă?Ă?ĂŽĂ“Ă˜Ă‘ ÞÙ Ă•Ă?Ă?Ăš ÞÒĂ?Ă“Ăœ ÒÙÚĂ?Ă? Ă™Ă? Ă?Ă“Ă–Ă Ă?ĂœĂĄĂ‹ĂœĂ? Ă‹Ă–Ă“Ă Ă? ÞÙ Ă?Ă‹Ă Ă? ÞÒĂ?Ă“Ăœ Ă?Ă?Ă‹Ă?Ă™Ă˜Ë›

H

owever, Spurs are just as hungry as they aim to end a decade-long wait for a trophy and confirm their consistent improvement under Mauricio Pochettino.

Jose Mourinho's men tightened their grip on the Premier League runners-up spot this week but a title battle with champions Manchester City never materialised and they limped out of the Champions League in the first knockout stage.

To add to the frustrations of the beleaguered boss, speculation over the future of ÂŁ89 million midfielder Paul Pogba has dominated headlines in recent weeks.

Often deemed surplus to requirements

by Mourinho this season, Pogba showed what he is capable of by scoring twice to help United temporarily delay City's title party in a thrilling 3-2 Manchester derby win a fortnight ago.

He impressed Mourinho once more in Wednesday's 2-0 victory at Bournemouth, but in between times was substituted and heavily criticised for his performance in United's shock defeat against West Brom that gifted the title to City last weekend.

"Top performance. Top performance.

Obviously the performance against City was special, coming with two goals," said the United boss of Pogba, who was retained in the side despite seven changes.

"But this performance was a very similar level. So top performance. He can do it."

Mourinho won the League Cup and Europa League in his first season at Old Trafford and even delivering just the FA Cup would be a poor return in the eyes of fans who hoped for a Premier League push this season.

But United have a proud tradition in the competition, with 12 wins in their history, just one behind Arsenal.

Spurs are third on the list with eight FA Cup wins, but haven't won the trophy since 1991, or any silverware since the League Cup in 2008.

Tottenham are, though, on the brink of qualifying for the Champions League for the third straight season.

And Pochettino has always insisted that success in the Premier League and the Champions League is a better gauge of how well his side is progressing.

Tottenham Eriksen tries to block Valencia from taking a shot "If we are capable to win the Premier League and the Champions League it is a moment you say the team has improved and reached the next level," said the Argentine.

"Until that, win the FA Cup or the League Cup, it will be fantastic for our fans but is not going to move the club to a different level."

Pochettino is sticking to his guns despite evidence that success in domestic cup competitions has been the stepping stone to greater things for other clubs.

United's FA Cup victory in 1990 laid the foundation for two decades of sustained success under Alex Ferguson while City's FA Cup win in 2011 ended a 35-year trophy drought and paved the way for the Premier League title the following year.

Spurs go into the match with a comfortable lead over fifth-placed Chelsea in the Premier League, with the dethroned champions likely to miss out on Champions League football next year.

Antonio Conte, widely expected to be in his final few weeks as Chelsea boss, has a more straightforward-looking task on Sunday against relegation-threatened Southampton, who Chelsea came from 2-0 down to beat 3-2 at St. Mary's last weekend.

The Italian boss is keen to fill in a surprising gap in his CV – despite repeated league success in Italy and England, he has never won a cup.

Conte has been coy when questioned about his future throughout a troubled

Wenger

Wenger Leaves as Arsenal Manager at Season’s End

A

rsenal manager Arsene Wenger has confirmed he will step down from his role at the end of the season.

Wenger, 68, will leave a year before his existing contract was due to expire having led the club to three Premier League titles and seven FA Cups during a 22-year reign.

Appointed on 1 October 1996, the Frenchman is the Premier League's current

longest-serving manager and has taken charge of a record 823 games.

In a statement to the club's website, he said: "After careful consideration and following discussions with the club, I feel it is the right time for me to step down at the end of the season.

"I am grateful for having had the privilege to serve the club for so many memorable years.

"I managed the club with full commitment and integrity.

Ferguson Proud of Rivalry with Wenger

A

rsene Wenger is one of the greatest managers in Premier League history, according to "rival and friend" Sir Alex Ferguson. Ferguson and Wenger had one of the most compelling rivalries in football, with the pair clashing frequently as Manchester United and Arsenal battled for Premier League supremacy.

Their feud reached its highest point when United ended Arsenal's long unbeaten run in the league at Old Trafford in October 2004, after which a pizza was thrown at Ferguson by Cesc Fabregas in the tunnel.

But their relationship improved in Ferguson's latter years in charge of United and the Scot says he is proud to consider Wenger a friend.

"I am really happy for Arsene Wenger. I have great respect for him and for the job he has done at Arsenal," Ferguson said.

"It is a great testament to his talent, professionalism and determination that he

has been able to dedicate 22 years of his life to a job he loves. "In an area where football managers sometimes only last one or two seasons, it shows what an achievement it is to serve that length of time at a club the size of Arsenal.

"I am pleased that he has announced he is leaving at this stage of the season, as he can now have the send-off that he truly deserves.

"He is, without doubt, one of the greatest Premier League managers and I am proud to have been a rival, a colleague and a friend to such a great man."

Wenger gave insight into his relationship with Ferguson last March when he revealed the former United boss gets in touch to offer support when Arsenal are going through a difficult period.

"I have a good relationship with Sir Alex Ferguson at the moment. Sometimes he sends me a message when things don't go well," Wenger explained.

"I want to thank the staff, the players, the Directors and the fans who make this club so special.

"I urge our fans to stand behind the team to finish on a high.

"To all the Arsenal lovers take care of the values of the club.

"My love and support forever."

Wenger himself said on Thursday that former Arsenal midfielder Patrick Vieira "has the potential" to succeed him as manager.

The club's majority owner Stan Kroenke asked Arsenal fans around the world to pay an appropriate tribute to the Frenchman who transformed the identity of the club. #MerciArsène pic.twitter. com/7wqOwveCfz — Arsenal FC (@Arsenal) April 20, 2018 He told Arsenal's website: "This is one of the most difficult days we have ever had in all our years in sport. One of the main reasons we got involved with Arsenal was because of what Arsène has brought to the club on and off the pitch. His longevity and consistency over such a sustained period at the highest level of the game will never be matched.

"Arsène has unparalleled class and we will always be grateful to him. Everyone who loves Arsenal and everyone who loves football owes him a debt of gratitude.

Arsene Wenger built the best teams that I played against in English Football .The 98 team was Amazing.The biggest compliment is that he played football that made us change the way we played against them. He now deserves the most incredible send off from all in the coming weeks.

season, but he urged his players to play for the fans regardless of his own position at the club.

"I was a player, and the players must play every game, and not for me, but for the club, and for the fans," Conte said.

"They must have great respect for this badge, they don't have to play for the coach."

Meanwhile, Pochettino does not believe playing at Wembley will give his side an advantage in Saturday's blockbuster FA Cup semifinal against Manchester United.

Spurs, playing at Wembley this season while their new stadium is being built, will be on familiar turf, although using the away dressing room, but Pochettino insists it will be a level playing field against Jose Mourinho's side.

"Of course, we feel at home," the Argentine said at his pre-match press conference on Thursday. "But it's different to when we play in the Premier League.

"I don't believe (we will have an advantage) because Manchester United have the experience to play at Wembley too. It's not an event just for us.

"I think it will be a typical cup game at Wembley – half Tottenham and half Manchester United. I don't believe we are going to have some advantage for that."

The Spurs boss does not believe winning the FA Cup would change the club, even though their trophy cabinet has been empty for a decade.

"It's fantastic if Southampton, Chelsea, Manchester United or Tottenham will win the FA Cup," he said. "Is it going to change our life? I don't believe, I don't believe. Who needs it more? I don't know.

"We are going to try and fight to win, but it is not about need or not need, it's about a title that would be fantastic to finish the season, play in the final and win the trophy.

"At the end it would be fantastic to finish the season with a trophy. I don't think it's about need or not need."

The other semifinal, on Sunday, sees Chelsea take on relegation-threatened Southampton.

ÓâÞĂ&#x;ĂœĂ?Ă?

TODAY Man Utd

v

Tottenham

5:15pm

v

Southampton

3.00pm

SUNDAY Chelsea

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ ͺ͹˜ ͺ͸͹΀

GLOBAL SOCCER\\OTHER SPORTS

Gifted Cole...set for world title fight defence

20th MILO Basketball Championship: Wesley Girls Secondary School,Yaba, Lagos (representing Lagos State) vs Yejide Girls Grammar School, Ibadan (representing Oyo State) at the Western Conference Girls Final, at the Indoor Hall of Adamasigba Stadium, Ibadan...recently

Gifted Cole Set for World Title Fight on May 12 World Boxing Federation Junior Middleweight champion and Global Boxing Federation World Super Middleweight title holder, Nigeria’s Gifted Cole Chiori, will on May 12, in Atlanta Georgia defend his title against Teemu Touminen of Finland in a 10-round bout.

Cole, whose record stands at 13-0, in a telephone chat with THISDAY from his base in the United States, said he was not intimidated by his opponent, promising to come out victorious at the end of the bout.

The fight being promoted by E Butt Promotions and Bishop Enter-

tainment is powered by Achievas Entertainment will also have nine under cards, while Cole would be headlining his first title fight of his boxing career.

With the City of Atlanta known for its huge presence of Africans and indeed Nigerians, Cole has promised to put a good show.

“After being out of the ring for almost two years now, I can't wait to bring back the fire come May 12,” the United States-based Nigerian-born boxer promised. With the kind of rigorous training I have gone through, I should be able to

stop him in the third round. I’m not underrating my opponent or being overconfident, but I had perfected the strategy to stop him early after watching some of the tapes of his previous fights,” he stated. Cole, however, admitted that defeating the Finnish would not be a walk in park.

“Touminen is a tested boxer and a worthy opponent any day and could be very tricky,” he said Cole defeated German opponent, Tom Reiche to retain his Junior Middleweight WBF title after he stopped him in the fourth round.

Ogie, Mokwunyei Win Umole 70th Birthday Golf Tourney Darlington Ogie and Prof. Joe Mokwunyei were last Saturday night declared winners at the Sylva Umole at 70 Birthday Golf Tournament held at the Benin Club Colf section (BCGS), Benin City, Also, Prof. Waziri Erhamen won the best gross trophy with 84 gross, while John Ugheoke won the most gross golf award with 141 gross played at the one day birthday tourney organised by Sylva Umole Committee of Friends, chaired by Mr. Peace Anuna in conjunction with the Club with over 100 golfers in attendance.

Ogie, beat other competitors by

playing a net score of 73 to win men's category, as Oscar Iyare settled for second position with 75 net, while Jimmy Osazuwa with 76 net beat Tony West-Erhaboh on count back to place third.

Similarly, Mokwunyei won the ladies' cadre with a net score of 75 while Folake Okorodudu and Nkiruka Awiaka placed second and third with a distant 82 net and 86 net respectively.

Winners in other categories are M. Ikhureigbe in the vet men with 78 net; Jackson Gaius Obaseki won the super vet men with 83 net; Ivie Iyoha won her usual vet ladies

with 84 net. R. Izoje and Kingsley Okunbo won the longest drive in hole 10 ladies and men event.

The celebrator, Umole, in his speech thanked all those who participated in the tournament.

"I am overwhelmed at the huge turnout of golfers and non-golfers who came to rejoice with me and my family on this epic occasion, they are wonderful people," he said.

The highlight of the event was the presentation of trophies and prizes all those who distinguished themselves at the one day golfing action.

20th MILO Basketball Championship National Finals

Two Lagos Schools, Six Others Qualify Teams from Lagos State have qualified for the Conference Finals of the 20th Nestle Milo Secondary Schools Basketball Championship.

Lagos State representatives, International School, Lagos (Boys) and Wesley Girls Secondary School, Yaba, (Girls) emerged winners at the Conference Finals and have both qualified for the national finals slated for May 3-10, at the National Stadium in Surulere, Lagos.

In the conference finals decided on Tuesday, Lagos defeated Oyo 36-35 points in the girls category, while in the boys final, Lagos beat Ogun with 77-41 points.

On their road to the final, International School played their first match in the Conference Finals against Team Ondo who they defeated 37-36 points.

They also won their second game against Team Ogun 47-33 points and their third match against Kogi was won by 38-23 points.

In the semi final of the finals, International School Lagos beat Ekiti by 54-20 points to set up their final match against Oyo which they won.

Meanwhile, in the girls category, Wesley Girls Secondary School defeated Ondo 60-5 points in their first match of the Conference Finals. Their semi final match against Ogun was

won by 30-26 points.

The Executive Chairman, Lagos State Sports Commission, Dr Kweku Tandoh described the performance of both International School and Wesley Girls as testimony to the developmental programme of the state government on schools sports. He said the two schools are worthy representatives of Lagos State in a competition designed for all secondary schools in Nigeria.

He charged the two finalists not to rest on their laurels until they win the coveted trophies in the National Finals, adding that the Lagos State Sports Commission is solidly behind them.

The Director General of the Commission, Fatai Babatunde BankAnthony, commended the two schools for fighting their ways to the national finals. He noted that the results they recorded in the conference finals showed they were gallant warriors who deserved praises.

He charged them, as Team Lagos, to be the champions of the 20th Nestle Milo Secondary Schools Basketball Championship.

Other qualifiers include, Belary School, Yenagoa, and St. Jude’s Girls Secondary School, Amarata, both in Bayelsa State; Government Secondary School, Karu, FCT Abuja; Gen.

Murtala Mohammed College, Yola, Adamawa State; Father O’ Connel Science College, Minna, Niger State; Government Secondary School, Gboko, Benue State; Four other schools will join after the completion of the draws for the best losers, according to information available from the National Collegiate Sports Foundation (NCSF). The National Finals will be held at the Indoor Sports Hall of the National Stadium in Lagos, between 3rd and 10th of May 2018.

The championship commenced earlier in the year with state preliminary games after the NSSF registered over 9, 000 schools across the 36 States and FCT Abuja. Out of these over 9,000 schools,74 schools comprising of both boys and girls teams qualified for the regional conferences which held in Benin, Abuja, Ilorin, and Ibadan, over a period of four weeks.

“A good number of players in the Premier Basketball League in Nigeria have participated in the MILO Basketball Championship at one point or the other while some of our champions are also currently playing in other international Premier Basketball Leagues in USA, Europe, and other places,” Lanre Balogun, NCSF’s Executive Secretary informed.

with KUNLE ADEWALE 08111813082

L-R: Chief Financial Officer, Betking, Morten Foght, Chief Opportunity Officer, BetKing, Neil Bothma, CEO, Betking, Byron Petzer, Brand Ambassador, BetKing, Austin Jay-Jay Okocha, and Co-founder, Betking, Adekunle Adeniji

Sunshine Stars’ Alimi Clinches VAT Wonder Goal Award It turned out one of the closest contests in the history of the three seasons old VAT Wonder Goal Award and it was Sunshine Stars Sikiru Alimi who was the last man standing, shaking off tough challenge from Chijioke Alakwe of FC IfeanyiUbah to emerge winner of the Match Day 16 edition.

The duo took to the polls their rivalry on the pitch on the match day where both netted for their clubs.

Alimi, who has scored in successive games for his relegation dogged club led the polls both on the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) website and twitter account with a combined total of 863 votes from a total 1745.

Alakwe’s strong showing on the website polls was undone by a comparatively poor showing on the twiiter polls where Alimi coasted with 50 percent of the 513 votes, leaving Alakwe and Kano Pillars Alassan Ibrahim with 108 votes each.

Overall, Alakwe polled 700 votes while Ibrahim trailed in third place with 125 votes and Stephen Alfred of Kwara United finished fourth with 57 votes.

The goal by Alimi was the only goal in Sunshine Stars 3-1 loss to FC IfeanyiUbah which saw the striker reaching a pass after outpacing his marker, and then did a cut back to set up a right footed shot from the edge of the box.

The player will receive the prize money of N150,000 half of which will be donated to a charity to be nominated by him from the state where the club is domiciled.

The VAT Wonder Goal Award is an initiative of the League Management Company (LMC) and supported by the Federal Inland Revenue Services (FIRS) to deepen club community engagement and promote the campaign on the benefits of tax payment by citizens.

Rivers United Emeka Ogbugh won the award for Match Day 15.

First Timer Wins N7.7million on Sports BetKing A punter who played for the first time on the fastest growing sports betting platform, BetKing has recently won a huge sum of N7.7million using the platform.

The winner, Prince Chukwuemeka shared his excitement over the weekend as he was contacted by representatives in Anambra State. According to Kingmaker, Sam Eze who manages agent shops in the region, the win was a major milestone in the history of the brand. “This is only the beginning of the great things that will be achieved by BetKing in Nigeria in time to come.” He said.

Chukwuemeka indicated that it was his first time playing on BetKing and he was glad that he played without any doubts. He narrated the story stating he was on his way to another betting shop when a BetKing agent engaged and convinced him to try BetKing. The decision proved to be fruitful as he ended up winning N7.7 million.

The winner attributes his success to his fearless prediction, which is a major distinguishing attribute of punters on Betking.

In his words, "My mind told me to play straight draw, and I never doubted".

Sharing his joy, he further stated that he never thought he could win that much from betting and expressed his appreciation to BetKing for giving Nigerians the opportunity to win like true Kings. He believed the winning would help improve his life in numerous ways and stated his desire to continue to play on the platform.

"I have even started inviting my friends to BetKing," he commented, when asked if he would readily recommend the platform to other punters.

BetKing is a sports betting company that launched on February in Lagos, offering online services Nationwide and agency services in five states within the Nigeria.

Among the offerings of the company’s services are sports betting, not restricted to football, hockey, cricket, tennis, basketball and more, customised state-of-the-art virtual games including the exclusively designed sports Kings’ League.

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER Ëž ÍşÍšËœ ͺ͸͚͜

34

by OMOLOLA ITAYEMI omolola.itayemi@thisdaylive.com 08054699602

TRAVEL&LEISURE

First Lagos Tourism Summit Berths Ă’Ă? ÞÙĂ&#x;ĂœĂ“Ă?Ă— ÚÙÖÓĂ?ĂŁ Ă›Ă&#x;Ă?Ă?ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜ Ă’Ă‹Ă? ĂŒĂ?Ă?Ă˜ Ă‹ Ă•Ă˜Ă™ĘľĂŁ Ă™Ă˜Ă? ĂĄĂ’Ă“Ă?Ă’ Ă’Ă‹Ă? ÚÖËÑĂ&#x;Ă?ĂŽ Ă“Ă‘Ă?ĂœĂ“Ă‹ Ă?Ă“Ă˜Ă?Ă? Ă“Ă˜ĂŽĂ?ĂšĂ?Ă˜ĂŽĂ?Ă˜Ă?Ă?Ë› Ă’Ă?ĂœĂ?Ă‹Ă? Ă’Ă?Ăœ Ă?Ă™Ă˜ĂžĂ?Ă—ĂšĂ™ĂœĂ‹ĂœĂ“Ă?Ă? Ă™Ă˜ ÞÒĂ? Ă?Ă™Ă˜ĂžĂ“Ă˜Ă?Ă˜Ăž Ă‹ĂœĂ? ĂœĂ?Ă‹ĂšĂ“Ă˜Ă‘ Ă‘ĂœĂ?Ă‹Ăž ĂœĂ?ĂĄĂ‹ĂœĂŽĂ? Ă?ĂœĂ™Ă— ÞÒĂ? Ă?Ă&#x;ĂŒĚ‹ Ă?Ă?Ă™Ă˜Ă™Ă—ĂŁËœ Ă“Ă‘Ă?ĂœĂ“Ă‹ Ă“Ă? Ă”Ă&#x;Ă?Ăž ĂŒĂ?Ă‘Ă“Ă˜Ă˜Ă“Ă˜Ă‘ ÞÙ ÞËÚ Ă“Ă˜ĂžĂ™ Ă“ĂžĂ? ĂœĂ?Ă‹Ă– ÚÙÞĂ?Ă˜ĂžĂ“Ă‹Ă–Ă?Ëœ Ă?Ă?ĂšĂ?Ă?Ă“Ă‹Ă–Ă–ĂŁ åÓÞÒ ÞÒĂ? Ă‹ĂŽĂ™ĂšĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜ Ă™Ă? ÞÒĂ? Ă™Ă&#x;ĂœĂ“Ă?Ă— Ă‹ĂžĂ?Ă–Ă–Ă“ĂžĂ? Ă?Ă?Ă™Ă&#x;Ă˜ĂžĂ? Ě™ Ěš Ă“Ă˜ ÞÒĂ? Ă?Ù×ÚĂ&#x;ĂžĂ‹ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜ Ă™Ă? Ă“ĂžĂ? Ă?ÞËÞÓĂ?ÞÓĂ?Ă?Ë› Ă?Ă‹Ă–Ă“Ă?Ă“Ă˜Ă‘ ÞÒËÞ Ă—Ă&#x;Ă?Ă’ Ă?Ă™Ă&#x;Ă–ĂŽ ĂŒĂ? ĂŽĂ?ĂœĂ“Ă Ă?ĂŽ Ă?ĂœĂ™Ă— ÞÒÓĂ? Ă‘Ă™Ă–ĂŽĂ—Ă“Ă˜Ă?Ëœ Ă‹Ă‘Ă™Ă? ÞËÞĂ? Ă’Ă‹Ă? ÞËÕĂ?Ă˜ ÞÒĂ? Ă“Ă˜Ă“ĂžĂ“Ă‹ĂžĂ“Ă Ă? ĂŒĂŁ Ă™ĂœĂ‘Ă‹Ă˜Ă“Ă?Ă“Ă˜Ă‘ Ă“ĂžĂ? Ę¨ĂœĂ?Þ̋ Ă?Ă Ă?Ăœ ÞÙĂ&#x;ĂœĂ“Ă?Ă— Ă?Ă&#x;××ÓÞ˛ Omolola Itayemi ĂĄĂ‹Ă? ÞÒĂ?ĂœĂ?

T

he theme for the Summit , “Destination Lagos: Towards a Sustainable tourism-driven economy� was delivered by Professor I. A. Ayodele of the Department of Wildlife and Ecotourism Management, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Ibadan, while Professor Pat Utomi talked on “Financing tourism, the paths and possibilities for Lagos State�. James McGregor, spoke on “Exploring Lagos tourism ecosystem for economic and social benefits� and Ikechi Uko presented a paper on “MICE: Creative content as tourism sector panacea�.

The summit attracted the former President of Ghana, John Mahama, who delivered the keynote address; the Minister of Information, Culture and Tourism, Alhaji Lai Mohammed; Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yoruba, Chief Gani Gani Adams; the Director-General, Nigeria Tourism Development Corporation (NTDC), Folorunso Folarin Coker; President, La Campagne Tropicana Beach Resort, Ambassador Wanle Abimbola; Chairman Nigerian-British Chamber of Commerce (NBCC), Prince Dapo Adelegan; Honourable Desmond Elliot and other distinguished personalities.

Folarin-Coker commended the Governor of Lagos State, Akinwumi Ambode for the initiative to convene the summit.

Addressing a flood of newsmen at the venue, he described the action of the governor as “a strategic step at involving the stakeholders and the public in tourism policy making.�

He said it was a clear attestation of the genuine desire of Ambode to provide the right ambience for the enhancement of the tourism potentialities of Lagos State. “Here today, the governor is taking tourism issues and matters right to the doorstep of the public for injection and intervention on how best these hidden treasures can be tapped for the benefit of all,� the NTDC boss said.

He described Lagos as the heartbeat of Nigeria tourism, “hence, every successive governor in Lagos State has realised the import of the state as a potential tourism hub and each of them has always taken steps that have been of immense benefit to the sector.�

He added: “Lagos is the major entry point to Nigeria. It is blessed with people, culture, sites, beaches, history, sight and sound, and music, which are ingredients of tourism. Tourism in Lagos is like a rough diamond and fortunately for the state, the goldsmith is here to polish the diamond for it to glow.�

Other tourism stakeholders hurled loads of commendation at Ambode for his pivotal action of holding the tourism summit where matters relating to the development of tourism in Lagos were exhaustively discussed.

AmbassadorAkinboboye, said: “The convocation of this Lagos Tourism Summit by Governor Ambode is an indication that the tourism sector in Lagos State is in for a new deal. Here comes a governor who understands the import of tourism and ready to lay the fundamentals for its germination, growth and blossoming. This is not only a right step in the right direction but a confidence-building in the minds of the practitioners and stakeholders that someone cares about the sector.�

Otunba Ayo Olumoko, Vice President, SouthWest, Federation of Tourism Associations in Nigeria (FTAN), is of the opinion that Ambode has just proved once again that he is a visionary leader who is not only a future-oriented leader but a leader with a positive attitude. “He is a governor who thinks about tomorrow, thinking about how to positively utilise today for the enhancement of tomorrow in a sustainable manner. He is unlike others who think of yesterday problem. The summit is a platform of involving the public and gathering public opinion on how Lagos tourism sector should be.

Chief Host and Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwumi Ambode; former President, Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), Dr. Nike Akande and Director General, Nigeria Tourism Development Corporation (NTDC), Mr. Folorunsho Folarin-Coker, during the opening of a 2-day Lagos Tourism Summit. with theme: “Destination Lagos: Tourism a Sustainable Tourism-Driven Economy�, at Eko Hotel, Lagos

“I am also using this opportunity to assure Ambode of the full cooperation and support from all members of our association. However, I also want him to look into the issue of multiple taxations, which tourism practitioners and stakeholders are subjected to in Lagos State and I hope that the outcome of this summit will not lead to extra taxes, being imposed on us. I know that one cannot run a good government without taxes but it should be streamlined and judicious in imposition,� Olumoko said.

The highpoints from the one-day summit would form the kernel of the Lagos State Tourism Master Plan.

Tour Operator and Chairman/Founder of FlyBoku.com. Mr Abiola Lawal (aka Mr Boku) saĂŻd Lagos Summit is an important step taken in bringing the stakeholders together - private sector , financial institutions, tour operators, media and govt in charting a course for a sustainable tourism development. It is the beginning however not the end in ensuring a viable tourism sector with a very proactive lasg providing the enabling environment for job creation and for the industry to thrive. It should be a good example for other states especially the ones with multiple tourism assets to follow.

First Lagos Tourism Summit in colours

TRAVEL NEWS

Savouring Emirates’ Exceptional In-ight Services Frequent travelers believe that the best way to judge an airline is from its Business Class experience.

One airline that has taken this mantra to heart is Emirates, one of the top Gulf airlines. Cue into its inflight entertainment onboard the B777-200 on the Dubai-Lagos route and you won’t be disappointed. Suffice to say, ICE comprising Information, Communication and Entertainment is Emirates premier entertainment platform.

From ample mouthwatering menu of gourmet dishes inspired by the region to juices, cocktails, mocktails and wines from different regions of the

world, a mouth-watering experience awaits you.

Appetisers and main courses range from traditional Arabic mezze, Moroccan-style or intercontinental small bites served with a seasonal side salad and freshly baked bread.

Delicious dessert leaves your palate in good stead. Whether it is Laurent-Perrier champagne, Pierro L.T.C Semillon Australian white wine, or Chateau Pontesac Medoc 2006, you can be assured of guzzling the best liquor and spirits in the world Interestingly, up to 3,000 channels of movies, TV shows, music and games, on demand and in

multiple languages, is the airline’s strong selling point. Staying in touch with family is easy with ‘C’ in ice is communication. With onboard Wi-Fi, you can make a call on mobile or use the in-seat phone. With this new technology, travellers can use the in-seat satellite phone to stay in touch with home or their offices or use it to call other people right on the flight.

They can also send messages using onscreen SMS and email services. You can use your mobile on over 300 flights a day, including all of Emirates A380 flights and most Boeing 777s.

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ ͺ͹˜ ͺ͸͹΀

VINTAGE

Ogun State Using Culture to Integrate Africans The African Drum Festival 2018 organised by the Ogun State Government is designed to reinvent skills in drumming as part of the African culture. Femi Ogbonnikan covers the festival and reports on the glamour and excitement of the third edition

L-R: Professor Wole Soyinka, Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Muhammed, Ogun State Governor, Ibikunle Amosun and the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Adeyeye Ogunwusi

W

ith culture, tourism and art, Ogun State sets the pace, while others follow. Besides, with culture as the tool for integration in African, Ogun State blazes the trail and it also leads the trail as the tourism hub of the world.

Gamour and excitement trail the threeday African drum festival initiated by the Ogun State Government. The festival unprecedented in the annals of the black race, with the third edition of the “Ogun State African Drum Festival 2018”, with the theme: “reviving our culture in drums”, held in Abeokuta this week, opened the window of opportunities for unleashing the cultural and tourism potentials the state is endowed with.

At the opening session of the event held on Thursday, international troupes drawn from Haiti, Mexico, Republic of Benin, Cote Do Voire, Liberia, Rwanda, South Africa, Cameroun, Burkina Faso, Zimbabwe, Ghana, Congo Brazaville and others kicked off the event with their various drums to exhibit the rich potentials and power of the instruments.

Cultural troupes drawn from different states government such as Kwara, Katsina, Cross River and private troupes such as City of David from Bariga, Lagos and Eni-Afe Reformers Band, Abeokuta gave a taste of what they are made of with their African drums.

In his goodwill message, Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Ogunwusi, expressed happiness with the Ogun State Governor, Ibikunle Amosun, for coming up with the initiative which began two years ago (2016), with the theme: “Nigerian drum” of which he claimed he was part of the maiden edition.

“Thank God for giving, not Ogun State alone but all of us Amosun. He has a tall dream. I am always happy over your shining activities especially in promoting our culture.

“It was in Yorubaland that we had the advent of drums. So, let us promote the drum festival. With this African drum festival, we are holding now it is sure it would promote trade and commerce of Ogun State.

“Let us bear it in mind that our culture and tradition transcend our religion”, said Ooni.

Also, the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi, commended Amosun for taking the giant stride in hosting the event.

The monarch advised whoever might become Amosun’s successor, to continue with the drum festival. “The event should not end here. God gave Governor Ibikunle

Amosun wisdom and knowledge to initiate and organise this event.

Alaafin said: “If and when the governor leaves office on May 29, 2019, what becomes the fate of continuity of this drum festival? I want to appeal to whoever will take over the baton of leadership from him to continue with this lofty event. Five ways to direct a person to do something good or bad, according to political scientists and philosophers are to lead by example, inspiration, motivation, mentorship and to be a role model.

“In 1885, when the colonialists (the British, Portuguese, Germans and French) converged in Berlin and when they wanted to leave Africa and decided to annex under their territories but we Nigerians used culture to liberate ourselves because they didn’t want to give us independence but they wanted us to continue to serve them. Through culture, we can motivate inspire and mentor our people to become one.

“Ogun State as the cradle of civilization has played dominant roles in the emancipation and promotion of growth and development of this nation and also beyond the shores. The state is blessed with prominent people. The Ogun State people have been taking the lead on every spheres of life. I could remember that Iwe Irohin was established in 1865 by Rev Townsend. Also, the first African lawyer was Sapara Williams who hailed from Egbaland.

“The state is also blessed with Prince Bola Ajibola (SAN), a former President of the World Court of Justice at Hague.

Likewise, you have here the literary giant, Prof Wole Soyinka. He is versed in Yoruba language and also English. So, Ogun State is richly blessed.”

The Obong of Calabar, Edidem Ekpo Oto, described Amosun as a visionary governor.

“It is a great privilege to be here today.

Ogun State is like my second home.

Culture is the beginning of African emancipation and it raises the awareness of the people and it will grow from strength to strength.

This year’s event is spectacular and it will go a long way. So, I will urge other states to take a cue from Ogun State and replicate such in their respective states as a way of promoting our culture”, said the Obong.

Not left out, the Alake of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo, who is the Chairman, Ogun State Council of Traditional rulers, expressed appreciation to the

Drummers at the event

initiative of Amosun and guests that were in attendance.

He reminisced on his first contact with the Alaafin when he was a young man living in the Palace of Alake of Egbaland, Abeokuta.

“At age 10, Alaafin when he was a young boy, he was staying within the Palace of the Alake of Egbaland, while I was five years old but staying opposite the Palace. That was when I first came on contact with the Alaafin”, said Alake.

Soyinka, who is the chief consultant to the Ogun State Government on the African Drum Festival 2018 promised to continue assisting the state.

Also, the Minster of Information and Culture, Lai Muhammed, commended the governor and the people of Ogun State on the drum festival: “On our own part at the Federal Ministry of Information and Culture, we will support Ogun State in using our platforms to create awareness for the drum festival. We will give our support to the Ogun State government to take this festival to another level. We will also ensure that the festival is included in our national calendar that we are working on now. To me, the festival will provide jobs and boosts the economy and that is why we will continue to support Ogun State government.

On the second day, precisely on Friday, 20th April, a conference, workshop and exhibition were held at the Olumo Rock tourist complex. Prof Soyinka featured his creative task force at the conference tagged, “DRUMming for ADVANCEment”. And this further conceptualises the festival for better understanding.

The conference was conceived as a new dimension to the annual African drum festival, specifically to bring intellectual flavour to the character and content of the project. The main objective is to begin to position the drum as a tool for education, socialisation, cultural and economic advancement.

This session held in two formats: conference and workshop exhibition.

The conference was aimed at creating a platform through which the very nature and character of the drum and the vocation of drumming could be distilled in order to rediscover its potentialities as a significant instrument for advancing the cause of the society.

“Everything great begins from Ogun State...well, take Fela’s Afro-Beat. It all began right here before he disseminated it to Lagos and the rest of the world. So, I am not surprised that Ogun state has

initiated this festival that calls attention to the significance of the drum in the life of humanity, and especially the African world.

“Many people do not recognise the centrality of rhythm, but rhythm is both entrancing and eloquent. It is a sophisticated possession of human beings. We all live on a world of rhythms, right from birth; it is both heartbeat and pulse. Rhythm is simply-life”, said Soyinka.

Resource persons that graced the occasion, include Dr Sylvanus Kwashie Kuwor, Mr. Laolu ‘Akins’ Akintobi, Dr. Tunde Adegbola, Dr. (Mrs) Bukola Bello Jaiyesimi, Mr. Muraina Oyelami, Dr. Jeleel Ojuade, among others.

Other programmes featured at the event were demonstrations and interventions

by Dr. Olu Adewale Adeniran, Mr. Akin Adejuwon, Chief Tunde Kelani and Mr. Wanle Akinboboye.

The rapporteurs were Lillian AmahAluko, Dr. Tunde Awosanmi, Dr. (Mrs) Razinat Talatu Mohammed and Mr Mufu Onifade.

The workshop was put together to impart knowledge about the various techniques of drumming, especially in the young ones, to ensure that the vocation begins to manifest its purposed education and entertainment values. Resource persons at this segment were Peter Adegboyega Badejo and Isioma Williams.

In his remarks, Ogun State Governor, Amosun, expressed appreciation to the traditional rulers and resource persons who had shared their knowledge through their talks and thus, making the festival successful.

“We have learnt a lot of things from the participants that came from different parts of the world, especially Africa.

It is good to catch our younger ones so that our culture does not fade away. We will continue to promote our culture.

In the subsequent edition of the festival, we will look into language barrier because I can see that we have our brothers and sisters from both Anglophone and Francophone countries that do not understand each other. Also, in our next festival, we will no longer use our traditional place, June 12 Cultural Centre, Kuto but another location which will be completed

by December this year.

“I am looking at the economic aspect, which is my stuff. We are going to see how it is possible to extend the festival beyond the three days, to like a week, in order to boost our trade and commerce during the period.

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ APRIL 21, 2018

INSIGHT

Promoting Nigerian Fintech Solutions: The Role of Government Bekeme Olowola

F

inancial technology (fintech) solutions are proliferating globally and disrupting services which were hitherto exclusive to traditional banking institutions. The unique offerings they bring to financial services covering payment gateways, trading platforms, digital currencies, lending, insurance and wealth management, to name a few, are what make them viable, even in underdeveloped countries.

Around the world, governments are also putting measures in place to improve innovation in this space, protect incumbents and attract more public funding and foreign investment for start-ups. The question, however is, how is Nigeria championing its indigenous innovation and how are existing ones being powered to the global stage?

Pundits have argued that Asia and Africa hold the biggest stake in the future of fintech. Not just because of population, but because of the extent of financial exclusion and other existing gaps which can only be salvaged by technology. “Rather than disrupting an existing infrastructure as their counterparts in the developed world are, they are in fact building a whole new infrastructure of their own,” says Wim van der Beek, Managing Partner of Goodwell Investments, Netherlands.

In Nigeria, like other parts of the world, fintech is becoming a buzzword, with companies sprouting and operating in different niches. Some of the most popular software platforms are Interswitch, e-Tranzact, Paga, Paystack, Piggybank and Remita.

Fintech software, Paga, a mobile payment platform, is helping to drive financial inclusion in the country, where over half of the adult population remain unbanked and underbanked.

Flutterwave, co-founded by a 26-year-old Nigerian entrepreneur, has the most impressive start, having attracted $10million in investment in 2017. It was founded just two years back by a team of ex-bankers, entrepreneurs and engineers, with the mission to provide a technology platform that allows businesses to make and accept payments anywhere in Africa.

Another solution developed 100 percent locally by SystemSpecs Ltd, is Remita, which seems to be receiving both ovation antagonism at the moment because it sits right at the heart of managing public funds. It attracted national and international validation when it was adopted as the payment gateway to Nigeria’s Treasury Single Account, as it has helped the government achieve incredible success in fiscal management such that the Minister of Finance, Kemi Adeosun,

Clearly, with these fintech innovations, Nigeria has the potential to play a major role in fintech solutions within and beyond Africa.The socioeconomic implication of fintech is broad.

McKinsey Global Institute says that some of these fintech initiatives, especially those involving the use of mobile phones, could rapidly drive inclusion and add up to $3.7trillion to the GDP of an emerging economy within a decade.This potential, however, is hinged on availability of support from government and regulators.As is currently being done world over, the Nigerian government must begin to deliberately support and drive conversations about indigenous fintech software with the intent of exporting them to the world

Olowola

and other government leaders, including Benue State governor, – for whom the software identified 500 ghost workers – speak glowingly about the payment platform.

Clearly, with these fintech innovations, Nigeria has the potential to play a major role in fintech solutions within and beyond Africa. The socioeconomic implication of fintech is broad. McKinsey Global Institute says that some of these fintech initiatives, especially those involving the use of mobile phones, could rapidly drive inclusion and add up to $3.7trillion to the GDP of an emerging economy within a decade. This potential, however, is hinged on availability of support from government and regulators. As is currently being done world over, the Nigerian government must begin to deliberately support and drive conversations about indigenous fintech software with the intent of exporting them to the world.

Here are a number of ways to encourage more innovation domestically and to also encourage international expansion of Nigerian fintech firms: Recognition: Building our profile as a fintech hub starts from recognising the explosive innovation, and the potential ramifications, going on locally. Only then can we capitalise on our own indigenous solutions and sell them to the world. At present, it is doubtful that the government has a way of incentivising innovation and entrepreneurship in this sector. The Nigerian government has not ascribed much importance to the fintech space and its impact domestically.

Government has an important role in the evolution of fintech. To bring indigenous fintech solutions to the global stage, it is important for Government to be at the forefront of driving conversations to showcase Nigeria’s strides and solutions in this space making it a key part of the agenda at relevant fora - especially those targeted at attracting investment - within and outside the country. This will rapidly unlock new economic opportunities and accelerate our development as a nation.

Improving Regulatory Frameworks: Regulatory reforms in favour of fintech is a worldwide discourse.

Although technology has challenged existing systems, some rules have not been changed to accommodate its emerging business models. Existing regulation should be upgraded to match the realities of a fintech-driven world.

For fintech to thrive in Nigeria, a framework that encourages innovation and ensures consumers are protected must be in place. Australia, Singapore and Japan, for instance, are creating a thriving fintech ecosystem as well as helping fintech firms access capital and export.

While it is commendable that the President Muhammadu Buhari administration gave local know-how a boost by signing Executive Orders 003 and 005 – which seeks to support local content development across the country - other support, through progressive industry-

specific policies, tax incentives and programmes to engender growth, will go a long way towards creating a vibrant fintech ecosystem.

Funding: Nigeria could take a cue from other countries to improve the availability of capital for new and existing firms. For instance, in 2016, the Monetary Authority of Singapore made a meaningful commitment to the development of fintech by investing about $225 million over the next five years in start-ups. As reported by Deloitte, the country also co-hosts events such as hackathons with accelerators to encourage growth and create strong links between fintech and the public sector.

Similarly, Australia developed hubs for fintechs and committed approximately $500million to promote innovation. Dubai International Finance Centre also launched a $100 million fintech-focused fund to develop the sector.

Attracting Foreign Investors: Fintech is already a hot topic for investors. According to data from Disrupt Africa, fintech was the biggest attraction for investors in Africa in 2017, gulping one-third of venture funding. Although a chunk of this was enjoyed by Nigerian start-up, Flutterwave, marketing Nigeria as a viable investment destination for fintech services would attract more of these investments.

The federal government (FG) – and its state counterparts - could also explore assisting fintech firms to connect with foreign investors.

Partnerships: There are two ways this can play out.

First, the government needs to facilitate collaboration between banks, and other financial services companies and fintech companies. This is a major impediment to the growth of fintech companies within the country.

Undeniably, fintech is the future of banking, and the earlier the banks stop seeing them as competitors, the greater their chances of survival.

Second, the public and private sector can collaborate to further improve Nigeria’s position in the global fintech space. The government can join in as shareholders in major fintech projects. M-Pesa was so successful in Kenya because of a combination of government support and consumer demand. As at 2017, M-Pesa had spread to 10 countries.

Forbes reports that in Middle East countries like Saudi Arabia, fintech is likely to emerge as a sector competing with oil in a matter of years because of the government’s commitment to open up more opportunities outside of oil, in line with its Vision 2030.

Similarly, in March 2018, the UK government set out a Fintech Sector Strategy to help related industries collaborate and ‘coopete’ - an interorganisational relationship that combines ‘cooperation’ and ‘competition’.

Bilateral Projects: The highest value from fintech will be derived when the government collaborates with the fintech sector to develop export markets for home-grown solutions. There are many countries for instance who are at the early stages of developing a technological framework for their Treasury Single Account. There are also countries looking for ways to better drive financial inclusion.

Nigeria boasts of efficient solutions to drive these and the government will play a major role in recommending adoption in other countries. As at June 2017, about 23 of such arrangements were in existence between 16 countries already. Late last year, Hong Kong and Dubai teamed up to promote same cross-border fintech innovation. Without the help of government, it is usually difficult for most fintech companies to scale through regulatory hurdles involved in exporting their technology.

Donation of Intellectual Infrastructure: Fintech could be viable tool for regional engagement and integration. It can also be Nigeria’s form of foreign aid to other countries as opposed to the faux pas of sharing electrical supply with other countries despite battling epileptic power supply. In this light, the government can use fintech as an official development tool designed and funded to combat the problems associated with corruption, financial inclusion, unemployment and poverty in other countries.

Fintech presents an opportunity for us to position ourselves as the giant that we are, especially among other developing countries where integration of technology in financing is still at infancy. With a population of over 190 million, the market for fintech is particularly huge in Nigeria.

As I close, I reiterate that Nigeria is well-positioned to become a hot spot for fintech globally. The FG’s move towards ensuring that this sector is vibrant will have long term implications on our economic growth as a nation. If properly supported, fintech is projected to create a new kind of economy that is knowledgedriven and can be a veritable source of wealth creation for the country, much like our treasured crude oil.

–– Bekeme Olowola is the Chief Executive of the business sustainability outfit, CSR-in-Action.

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ ͺ͹˜ ͺ͸͹Ͷ

FAIRGROUND

Glenfiddich, Play Network Present ‘Circle of Mavericks’

with

AZUKA OGUJIUBA

azuka.ogujiuba@thisdaylive.com

G

lenfiddich, the Maverick Whisky Makers of Dufftown, has never followed where the path leads, but instead where there is no path leaving a trail for others to follow.

This year’s maverick campaign, tagged ‘The Circle of Mavericks’ kicked off with an invite-only event in Abuja on April 5 and in Lagos, April 7. The event was a celebration of mavericks in different industries with John Boyega as special guest. True to the term maverick, Glenfiddich set a trend for fine dining, drinking and entertainment at the intimate affair.

A rapid transportation into the world of Jazz, exceptional whisky and cigars, the event was like no other.

Guests in Abuja enjoyed a three-course dinner of caviar, beetroot salmon, cooked lamb, Glenfiddich infused chicken breasts and other special delicacies with talented saxophonist, Abbey Sax, playing in the background to ensure the perfect mood all night long. Fusing the elegance of the 1800’s with the upbeat tempo of this century, the black-tie event saw guests dressed to the nines. The event witnessed saw celebrities and influencers network, dance and have a great time. It was well attended by guests like Charles Okpaleke of Play Network, GM of Transcorp Hilton Hotel Abuja, Etienne Gailliez and his wife, Aderemi Ajidahun of Zakaa Luxury, George Okoro, Ogwa Iweze, etc. And in Lagos – Victor Ehikamenor, Tola Odunsi, Mai Atafo, Ladi Balogun, Obi Asika, Eku Edewor, Adebola Williams, Peace Hyde, Eunice Omole, among others.

In Lagos, entertainment for the night was a performance by Brymo. Guests were given the gift of an out-of-the-ordinary short acoustic performance experiencing the Brymo moment. The acoustic performance, of the artist’s favourite songs from his various body of works was positively received by guests.

L-R: Toni Kan, Victor Ehikamenor, John Boyega and Mai Atafo

Adebola Williams & Ladi Balogun

Akin Disu and a Guest

Enyi Onwurah & Akin Akinkugbe

Etienne Gailliez & wife

Alistair Preston and Solo Nanna

Dolapo Sijuade

Omoyemi Akerele and Mo Agusto

Tola Odunsi, John Boyega, Akin Akinkugbe and Obi Asika

Etim Effiong and Mawuli Gavor

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ APRIL 21, 2018

TEENS CONNECT

the magazine for teenagers

STAR TEEN Nude Fashion Debases a Woman - Rebecca Igebor, Winner of Genesis Fashion Show For four years now, teenagers in Nigeria have had the opportunity to showcase their talents in fashion designing and other creative abilities, courtesy of the Genesis Fashion Show organized yearly by the Teens Church of the RCCG, City of David Parish, Lagos. The winner of the 2017 edition, Rebecca Igebor, is not only multitalented but the 18-year-old knows exactly where she’s headed in life and how to get there. This much she revealed in this chat with Nkechi Ibeneme How has winning the show affected your life?

Winning the GFS has changed my life tremendously and has given me the opportunity to chase my dreams. Something I could never have dreamt of at this point in my life. Words cannot perfectly describe the way I feel. I can only say a big thank you to the organisers for this wonderful opportunity.

Was the 2017 edition your first time on the Genesis Fashion Show?

I participated in the 2016 edition, as a model.

So, what made you return this year as a designer?

While walking the runway, I took a critical look at some of the designs on display and thought to myself that I could actually do this. So, I made up my mind to register as a designer in the next edition.

Were you already designing before the show?

Yes. I have been designing for two years now. Immediately I left secondary school, I went to do a one-year programme at a fashion school. Even before I went to the fashion school, while still in secondary school, I used to make clothes for myself. I would sketch and cut out along the lines of my sketch then sew it up using needle and thread. I hadn’t a machine then so each time I thought of a style, I would sketch, cut and sew with needle and wear it to church like that and my mum would be wondering what that was about. Really, the clothes I made then didn’t quite turn out like they were sewn with a needle but they didn’t turn out as neatly as clothes sewn by machines and it took longer for me to make a single dress.

What inspired your choice of designs for the show?

Growing up, I used to watch the Most Beautiful Girl in Nigeria beauty pageant organised by Silverbird and I used to admire the long evening gowns worn by the contestants. To me, they looked like princesses. As women, I believe we represent royalty and should carry ourselves as such, so I made up my mind that going into the competition and beyond, I would create long flowing gowns that would portray royalty.

What was the warm up to the show like?

We had a masterclass and some established designers were on hand to take us through the rudiments and give us pep talks. I thank God for NextGen. They did everything to make our jobs easy. All we had to do was come for rehearsals and sketch our designs.

Going into the show, did you expect to win?

When I got to the masterclass, I saw a lot of teenage designers who wanted to enter the competition too and just said to myself that I was going to win this. I didn’t know I said it out loud and my friend, who is also a designer and who was standing beside me said, ‘hello!’ It was then I knew I had spoken out loud. I just said sorry. But I had this

feeling I was going to win this. I felt nobody here could match the designs I had.

And what gave you such confidence in the face of other contenders?

I just had that mindset from the word go. I believed in my designs. I believed I had done my homework well and that no one was good enough to beat me, seeing that my designs represent royalty - what can ever beat royalty? My motto is actually: ‘Let fashion describe royalty’.

Did you choose the fabrics for your designs or you just worked with what was provided?

After the master class, we had another interview where they picked the first ten designers to compete. Then, we were asked to make our choices of fabrics for our designs and each of us made our choices. While speaking with me on the choice of fabrics, one of the designers that mentored us, Miss Tara Koko, discovered that most of the fabrics I chose were quite expensive and she said, ‘Ok, this is good taste for royalty’. She actually suggested more fabrics that would suit the royalty concept and the result was magical.

Would you participate in the 2018 edition of the show?

Yes! I will be there not to compete but to launch my designs and showcase them to the world.

What is next for you?

For now, it’s going to be the career for me.

I want to pursue this business on a full-time basis and build it up to a stable point before furthering my education. Right now, we are all undergoing a six-month internship courtesy of NextGen. I am doing mine with Rootz Fashion while others are doing theirs with other volunteer designers. As soon as I am done with the internship, I will buy an industrial machine with my prize money, register my business name and launch my designs on Instagram with my logo which is almost ready and business will start.

How did your parents react to your decision to put your education on hold?

They didn’t support the idea at first, but after I won the Genesis Fashion Show, they saw many reasons to allow me to put schooling on hold. Moreover, they could see that my elder brother couldn’t secure a reasonable job since he graduated. For many years now since he completed his youth service, he keeps moving from one menial job to the other. My parents also realized that many people who have gone to school are just roaming around with no jobs. Although I had to speak to them severally and I prayed that God should touch their hearts.

When it’s time for school, what course would you study?

I will study Law. I just love the course. Also, while in school, my government

Igebor

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APRIL 21, 2018 Ëž THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER

Igebor’s designs

teacher saw that flair in me and suggested I read Law. I do not intend to practise though.

8IBU JT ZPVS UBLF PO OVEF GBTIJPO For me, nude fashion shouldn’t be a trend; it debases a woman. Women are divine.

They are mothers to nations and should carry themselves as royalties. Coming out half-naked does not make a woman beautiful rather, it makes her look less a woman. You can actually slay in decency. You do not have to expose vital body parts to slay. Some celebrities go on the red carpet half-dressed and teenagers emulate them thinking it’s glam. As a matter of fact, I look forward to when celebrities would be rocking my less-revealing clothes on the red carpet like the princesses they are. I want to teach women that beauty is from within and not by showing off body parts. And that’s what the Genesis Fashion Show stands for; to redirect the fashion sense of teenagers and make them realize they could be glam and still look decent.

8IBU BSF ZPVS WJFXT PO B UFFOBHF SFMBUJPOTIJQ I see teenage relationship as a dream killer.

The time teenagers should spend developing themselves, they waste on maintaining a relationship that may not lead anywhere. In the course of a relationship, other complications may set in like pregnancy, abortion which can lead to distortion of dreams and even death. When the time is ripe for a young person to be in a relationship, he or she will know and can handle whatever comes with it.

8IP JT ZPVS SPMF NPEFM My role models are Mo Abudu and myself. Mo Abudu is an amazing woman and she inspires me a lot. When I read her profile online, I made up my mind to equal or even surpass her achievements. Though she is from a well-to-do family and I am not, she worked really hard to get to where she is today and I am ready to work as hard. I also inspire myself in a lot of ways.

8IBU PUIFS UBMFOUT EP ZPV IBWF BTJEF GSPN EFTJHOJOH DMPUIFT I sing, write, act, draw, present and also do motivational speaking. Recently, I counselled a girl who had taken a decision to do something really awful and after the session, she changed her mind. I am also a very good cook.

8IFSF EP ZPV TFF ZPVSTFMG mWF ZFBST GSPN OPX I see myself as the established CEO of Becky’s Fashion Palace. My palace will cater for everything fashion - clothes and accessories. I intend to stock designs from other people as well as my own designs.

The show is open to every teenager ager that has something to oer irrespective e of his or her religious aďŹƒliation. A certain n year, a nond the winner member emerged %P ZPV IBWF XPSE GPS UIF PSHBOJTFST PG UIF TIPX I am immensely grateful to daddy and mummy Iluyomade, the head teacher, Pastor Gbenga Olaniyan and other teachers of the Next Generation Church of RCCG, City of David Parish for this wonderful platform.

God is using them to polish and even rewrite the destinies of many teenagers. Through the show, many talents have been discovered; some in singing, photography, presenting, designing and even modelling. The other day, while watching the television I saw a product of the GF Show; Newton Avies Igwele, strutting the runway as a professional model in South Africa. I was ecstatic because he started here four years ago and now he’s on a world stage. *T UIF TIPX PQFO UP POMZ UFFOBHF NFNCFST PG UIF DIVSDI No! It is open to every teenager that has something to offer irrespective of his or her religious affiliation. A certain year, a nonmember emerged the winner.

8IBU T ZPVS XPSE PG BEWJDF GPS GFMMPX UFFOBHFST Reach out for greatness. God put something

in every one of us, as He said in Jeremiah remiah 1v5. Some people discover scover theirs earlier than an others but no matter how w long g it takes o discover yours, for you to p trying. y g never givee up g that a fool at The saying ol forever, in my 40 is a fool opinion, iss not correct. ple can start p Some people till make late and still t. Also, do an impact. d your y time not spend Googling the latest music, fashion shion or even watching ching g porn. p Search forr p profiles of successful people ful p online and d read about their ir journeys j y to the top for your inspiration. n. t'PS UIF SFIF SFDPSEFE JOUFSWJFX OUFSWJFX BOE DMJQT PG PG G UIF TIPX WJTJU WJTJU XXX UFFOTDPOOTDPOOFDUNBH DPN DPN

Igebor

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER APRIL 21, 2018

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ APRIL 21, 2018

THE ALTERNATIVE with Reno Omokri It is Buhari Who is Lazy and not Nigeria’s Youth, Nigeria’s Youth are not Lazy

W

ednesday, April 18, 2018 was my saddest day of 2018 so far.

My privilege as a Nigerian was breached when President Buhari, who should be the main marketer and chief diplomat of Nigeria and Nigerians, took time out of his not very busy schedule to de-market Nigeria before elite world business and political leaders at the ongoing Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in London.

Asked a question about how he intends to address the huge youth unemployment in Nigeria during a business forum at the ongoing CHOGM, Buhari resounded thus: “About the economy, we have a very young population, our population is estimated conservatively to be 180 million. This is a very conservative one.

More than 60 percent of the population is below 30, a lot of them haven’t been to school and they are claiming that Nigeria is an oil producing country, therefore, they should sit and do nothing, and get housing, healthcare, education for free.”

What a fallacious and provocative statement! First of all, it is not true. But if even it is true, is that the type of talk that should proceed out of the mouth of a man who is meant to be the father of the nation?

And this is now a habit with Buhari. He has also previously slandered Nigerians when he called his own people ‘criminals in a February 5, 2015 interview he gave to the Telegraph of London.

During that interview he said: “Some Nigerians claim that life is too difficult back home, but they have also made it difficult for Europeans and Americans to accept them because of the number of Nigerians in prisons all over the world accused of drug trafficking or human trafficking.”

But in truth, between Nigerian youths and President Buhari who wants to sit and do nothing? What rubbish coming from a President who lied that rats chased him from his office so he could work at home! A lazy President, who cannot supervise his Inspector General of Police to know where he is, calls Nigeria’s youths lazy. He will hear from them in 2019!

Nigerian youths created Nollywood from the scratch without government support. 77% of Black doctors in America are Nigerians, mostly youths who were frustrated out of Nigeria due to the inept leadership of the likes of Buhari. Throughout his life, can Buhari name one thing he has run successfully? Meanwhile millions of Nigerian youths run successful businesses.

10 million jobs have been lost since 2015. It is not laziness that makes Nigeria’s youths jobless, it is Buhari’s incompetence that makes them jobless.

But in truth, between Nigerian youths and President Buhari who wants to sit and do nothing? What rubbish coming from a President who lied that rats chased him from his office so he could work at home! A lazy President, who cannot supervise his Inspector General of Police to know where he is, calls Nigeria’s youths lazy. He will hear from them in 2019!

Buhari How many of Buhari’s children are gainfully employed? His son Yusuf is busy riding multi-million power bikes while the father insults us! It is what he ought to say about himself that he is saying about Nigeria’s youth.

Buhari is the one that does not want to work. What project has he initiated, started and completed in 3 years? The only thing he knows how to do is blame and condemn! Jonathan gave youths #YouWIN. What has Buhari given youths besides sorrow, tears and blood?

When he said Nigerian youths want to “sit and do nothing, and get housing, healthcare”, Buhari was describing himself. He sits and does nothing at Aso Rock. He gets free housing at the Presidential Villa.

He spends 103 days in a London clinic and we the ‘lazy’ people of Nigeria pay for it! Joblessness makes him talk anyhow!

According to some estimates, there are over 2 million Nigerian youths hawking various products, wares and goods from morning till night under the hot African sun, yet their lazy President who has not initiated, started and completed any project in three years called them lazy people who want to “sit and do nothing, and get housing, healthcare.”

The annoying thing is that he later asked the investors in the audience to consider investing in Nigeria.

Buhari understands very little about cause and effect.

How can you in one breath say that your country’s youths are lazy and do not want to work and in the next you appeal to foreign investors to come and invest in Nigeria?

Someone please explain to Buhari that a father who calls his daughter a prostitute should not expect suitors!

Imagine Buhari saying Nigeria’s youths are not educated! Between Buhari and the Nigerian youth who hired 13 SANs to prevent from showing his WAEC certificate? It is Buhari’s education that is dubious and not that of Nigeria’s youths who love education enough to seek it home and abroad!

The mace of the Nigerian Senate was allegedly stolen by a member of President Buhari’s own party from the

National Assembly, Buhari kept quiet.

A man he gave a political appointment was jailed for N182 million fraud, Buhari still kept quiet. He only spoke when it involved insulting the Nigerian youth.

Those same youths are waiting for him with their PVCs! How does Buhari expect Nigerian youths fighting Boko Haram to feel?

Many of them have died in the cause of serving Nigeria. How does he expect youth corps members to feel? Have his own kids, Zahra and Yusuf served their fatherland via NYSC or the military?

They ride power bikes and get married in multi-million Naira weddings while their father insults Nigerian youths!

President Buhari has a cabinet of 36 ministers and not one of them is a youth.

The median age of his ministers is 52 years while the median age of Nigeria’s population is 17.9 years. His cabinet is not representative of Nigeria. That is why he thinks our youths are lazy and uneducated.

Buhari condemns Nigerians youths for being lazy, yet it took him six months to name his ministers. He even gave jobs to dead people because he was too lazy to do due diligence. What more evidence of laziness can there be than the fact that he did not know that his own IG of Police had not obeyed his orders to relocate to Benue?

I am even more peeved with the silly response from the Presidency to this saga.

I am ashamed for Femi Adesina if he is not ashamed for himself and his family!

Is he not embarrassed? Look at the pitifully pathetic statement he released yesterday saying Buhari did not call all Nigerian youths lazy. He only called ‘a lot of them’ lazy.

Silence is better than such a statement.

Advice to Femi: When you are in a hole, stop digging! What is the difference between a lot and all, Femi? Remember you are a pastor. Do not be the fly that followed the corpse into the grave. Save some of your integrity.

There is life after Aso Rock. I am living proof of that!

Femi, don’t allow yourself be the toilet roll President Buhari uses to wipe himself.

Former President Jonathan was also in the U.K. to give a speech at the famous Oxford Union of Oxford University on October 24, 2016. Compare what he said to what Buhari said: “I believe in the Nigerian youth and indeed African Youths. My conviction is not only an emotional one, but one grounded in my experience with youths from all over the continent. Despite incredible challenges, Nigerian youths are achieving great things and placing Nigeria positively in the world map. Nigerian youths are an inspiration to their leaders”.

As our youths will say, just negodu the difference between a real leader and a real lidder!

As an aside, has anyone noticed how quiet the Presidency has been since Senator Omo Agege and his thugs allegedly invaded the Senate and stole the mace?

Even foreign governments have condemned the act, but the Buhari government maintains a loud silence. Silence often means consent. Or worse, complicity.

I may not have any proof, but I personally believe that what happened at the Senate, with the theft of the mace, could not have happened without the knowledge of the executive. There are police stationed at the National Assembly premises. If you believe they allowed thugs come in without receiving an ‘order from above’ then you should also believe Buhari’s promise of making $1 equal to N1.

Let me just end here before I get so angry and tell the President about himself.

Reno’s Nuggets Be careful the names you give your children, it affect their character. Is it a coincidence that Lai lies, that El-Rufai is made up of the same letters as failure, that Garba speaks garbage, that Buratai is brutal? Now look at Omo Agege behaving like an Agege tout! Names matter!

APRIL 21, 2018 ˾ THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER

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FASHION FILE

REKANA Collection

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER Ëž APRIL 21, 2018

FASHION FILE

By Azuka Ogujiuba azuka.ogujiuba@thisdaylive.com

REKANA Collection

R

EKANA is starting as a ready-to-wear womenswear brand providing women with distinctive clothing in comfortable fabrics that are both functional, stylish and make a statement to the discerning eye. A clothing line that radiates ease, style, strength, signature, lifestyle and relevance.

Its mission is to provide its customers with affordable collections that are all about design excellence and exceptional quality, fabrics and styles suitable for each season, to satisfy the needs of every aspiring fashionista and free-thinking women.

Self-titled, the Rekana Woman is bold, daring and versatile. Because, if you obey all the rules you will miss all the fun.

Credits Creative Direction: @SharonOjong Photography: @Tope_Horpload Model: @Bertha_Amuga Makeup: @CassKoncept1 Styling Assistants: @IamC20 @ & @the_real_tcee Special thanks to @ayovanelmar @spicetvafrica @ yomicasual @archibongsam

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PEOPLE Eddie Aderinokun

Why We are Marking 150 Years of Journalism in Nigeria Ogun State is set to host an event tagged Nigeria Media Sesquicentennial which is being put together by the Nigerian League of Veteran Journalists to mark 150 years of journalism in Nigeria.

Adedayo Adejobi spoke with the League’s President, Eddie Aderionokun, who throws light on the reason for the celebration, the role journalism played in development of education and why Abeokuta was chosen as the host city

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hat informed the decision to celebrate 150 years of journalism in Abeokuta, tagged ‘Nigeria Media Sesquicentennial’ by the Nigerian League of Veteran Journalists and who are those in the league?

Thanks for this question as it is important that we shed light on this matter so that the new generation can understand properly our origin as a modern nation for them to become clear-headed to understand that proper foundation was built by God for our country. In the first place, it is important to note that the power to read and write was given to Nigerians through journalism. How so? Before the first newspaper, IWE IROHIN was printed in Abeokuta

by Reverend Henry Townsend, whom I refer to as the father of education and of all journalists and publishers in Nigeria, there was no formal way to teach Nigerians how to read and write. And because the missionary work of preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ was impossible except the person to whom you are preaching can understand your preaching, faith is impossible. And in this case, the people preaching were English-speaking, and the only way they could establish that their work was successful was to ensure that the ‘preachees’ or prospective converts can on their own find time to study the scriptures by reading. So it follows that the ‘ready-for-harvest fields’ of Nigeria at that time had to be cultured for harvest. Thus, the reverend had to innovate by creating the local newspaper to stimulate reading. And just imagine what the man had to contend with! But today we take for granted the fact that we can read and write as good as the ‘oyinbos’ themselves, if not better in some cases. Remember Professor Wole Soyinka’s literary feats; remember Chinua Achebe; remember Chimamanda Adichie, et al.

So, if we roll out the drums to celebrate 150 years of journalism in Nigeria, we also are celebrating education and the blessings of education indirectly. And lest I forget, this is what the Reverend Henry Townsend said about his mission: ‘I have set on foot a Yoruba newspaper. My first number is out, I am writing the second. My object is to get the people to read, i.e. to beget the habit of seeking information by reading. It is difficult.’ And now imagine how more difficult can writing a newspaper by hand be! So as a body, we felt that we had to leave a legacy for this noble profession of ours and to remind us all as a people, that journalism practically gave birth to Nigeria as we know it and that we must remember our roots and water it properly, so we can navigate the future with sure-footedness and clear-headedness. And as per who Nigerian League of Veteran Journalists are and what we do, let me say for the benefit of those who would read this interview that, NLVJ was officially founded in 1989 under the leadership of myself, Chief Ajibade Fashina-Thomas, Ben Lawrence and others like Dayo Duyile and Ambassador Moses Ihonde, to mention a few after due consultations with senior colleagues like the late Anthony Enahoro, Alade Odunewu and Babatunde Jose; as a functional assemblage of the media practitioners of the 1950s, 1960s and 1970s. Also, we have records to the fact that over the years, the NLVJ has been instrumental to steadying the ship of state of Nigeria during turbulent times using lectures, seminars and talk shops.

Aderinokun

NLVJ is also a patriotic conclave of Nigerian journalists who are passionate about Nigeria and are committed to the highest standards of the media profession through continuous interactions and interventions.

If there is more to add, my colleagues will fill the gaps at the event’s World Press Conference taking place sometime in May. What is the role of Ogun State and Governor Amosun in the marking of this epoch?

Remember that what we are celebrating is a journey that started in Abeokuta in 1859 with the Iwe Irohin and today that newspaper has given birth to countless journalists and publications and an independent Nigeria. I think it is worth mentioning that the woman who christened Nigeria, Flora Shaw Lugard, was also a journalist, while it was the journalistic elements in Nigeria at that time beginning with Herbert Macaulay; the first publisher of a daily newspaper in Nigeria (Lagos Today) that began to move for Nigeria’s independence.

His struggle was then carried on by his protégées like Azikiwe, Awolowo, fiery Anthony Enahoro, and the rest of them.

That said, it is no more news that under this present Ogun State government led

by Senator Ibikunle Amosun, the state has accelerated to become Nigeria’s industrial hub and the fifth on the World Bank’s subnational rankings of states on Ease of Doing Business Index. Not only that the state’s IGR (internally generated revenue) under his leadership was jacked up astronomically from N700 million in 2011 to between N6 to N7 billion in 2016, (this is equal to a 1000 per cent growth, making Ogun State second only to Lagos in the Fiscal Sustainability Index of 2016), while the state has attracted 75 per cent of all the foreign direct investment that came into Nigeria between 2012 and 2017, the data means that mean that 304 industries have opened business or started new production lines in Ogun State.

Of these, 156 of them invested between $100 million and $200 million and 148 invested above $200 million, in some cases, above US$2billion! These are all figures you can verify if you think I am making them up.

So it is like this governor wants to give

Nigerians the opportunity to experience the new and modern Ogun State with its Strategic Development Plan (2018-2030) and stand out infrastructures that would make anyone who loves development proud, while we are celebrating a phenomenon (journalism) that has accounted for and continues to facilitate the mental and socio-political liberation of Nigeria.

So, it was very heart-warming when the governor agreed in principle to host the event. Fortunately, he also attended African Church Grammar School where I was one of the founding students-and that was really a high point for me, knowing that my alma mater had produced a governor.

Personally, I think Governor Amosun is an exceptional leader, who is extremely people – and development-oriented. At the risk of sounding patronising, I think so far, no other governor has done what this young man has done as far Ogun State is concerned. And even what surprises me is that fact he is not slowing down even though his time has almost run out.

So, what should we expect from the Nigeria Media Sesquicenttenial?

Firstly, we shall use the occasion to thank God who in His infinite mercy has kept alive many of us who practiced journalism in 50s, 60s, and 70s. Secondly, the event would feature the inauguration and ground-breaking of a Nigeria Media Hall of Fame and an Institute of Media Research and Training Centre. There shall also be a gala/awards ceremony where past and present practitioners as well as performing public servants past and present shall be honoured. Also, there shall be a media exhibition and an international colloquium that would be anchored by a prominent media personality of a media outfit of global repute. We are looking at BBC or CNN and all that would be unveiled at the World Press Conference which I mentioned earlier. In addition, the occasion would be used to showcase the wonders of Ogun State and Abeokuta as well as the achievements of the present government as the event’s headline sponsors. Very important too, we shall contact and invite descendants of Reverend Henry Townsend to grace the

Governor Amosun wants to give Nigerians the opportunity to experience the new and modern Ogun State, while we are celebrating a phenomenon (journalism) that has accounted for and continues to facilitate the mental and socio-political liberation of Nigeria. So, it was very heart-warming when the governor agreed in principle to host the event.

Personally, I think Governor Amosun is an exceptional leader, who is extremely people – and developmentoriented. At the risk of sounding patronising, I think so far, no other governor has done what this young man has done as far Ogun State is concerned. And even what surprises me is that fact he is not slowing down even though his time has almost run out event. Lastly, it shall also be an avenue to hold NLVJ’s annual convention. Really, it is a full package.

And what does the galaxy of leadership and membership of your league look like?

Ah, good question! Quite a parade of journalism gurus like elder Sam Amuka of Vanguard newspapers; Igwe Alex Nwokedi, General Obasanjo’s chief press secretary as head of state; Moses Ekpo, currently deputy governor, Akwa Ibom; Ambassador Moses Ihonde, press secretary to General Yakubu Gowon as head of state, Aremo Olusegun Osoba, former Ogun State governor; Alhaji Kola Animasaun of Vanguard newspapers. Others include media mogul Nduka Obaigbena, Chief Temple Benson. First female journalist to work in any television station in Nigeria (WNTV-WNTS); Omobola Onajide and such an array of ace veteran journalists like columnist Bunmi Sofola, Sola Odunfa, former PUNCH Editor; Dele Adetiba and Fabio Lanipekun, an ace sportscaster. Not to mention other new generation stars like Femi Adesina, President Buhari’s media adviser, and Emmanuel Yaweh, press secretary to Bamanga Tukur, old Gongola State governor in 1983, and Akin Adeoya formerly of THISDAY. And of course the triumvirate of me, Ajibade Fasina-Thomas and Ben Lawrence, co-founders of NLVJ. When will the event hold?

The event has been scheduled for June 14 to 16, at a venue that would soon be announced.

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T H I S D AY, T H E S AT U R D AY N E W S PA P E R ˾ ͺ͹˜ ͰͮͯͶ

EVENTS

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agos State former Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr. Dele Alake recently gave his father-in-law, Pa Emmanuel Olufe Elegbede, the final rites of passage. After a burial service at Araromi Baptist Church Lagos, the Alake family feted guests at Harbour Point, Victoria Island, Lagos.

L-R: Widow Mrs. Elizabeth Elegbede; Mrs Tenitayo Akinbiyi; Mrs Temitope Akinowa and Mrs Olasunbo Alake

Photographs by Mubo Peters

L-R: Daughter of deceased, Mrs Abisola Bakare and Mrs Abosede Adebiyi

L-R: Ms. Wonuola Alake and Ms. Oyinkan Bakare

L-R: Mrs. Taiwo Elegbede-Moses and Ms. Wunmi Adebiyi.

L-R: Son-in-Law, Former Commissioner for Information and Strategy Lagos State, Mr. Dele Alake;Mr. Gbenga Akinbiyi and Mr. Bola Bakare.

L–R: Vice President Yemi Osinbajo and his wife Dolapo

L-R: APC National Leader Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Chief Bisi Akande

L-R: Osun State Governor, Rauf Aregbesola. and Mr. Wale Edun.

L-R: Senator Gbenga Ashafa and Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose.

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ ͺ͹˜ ͺ͸͹΀

TRIBUTE

Tribute to My Mum Gone to Rest. . . Ferdinand Ekechukwu in a solemn tribute to his beloved mum, Patience Ekechukwu who passed on recently at 63

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hen she specifically asked that she would need to see me that fateful March 23 morning, it was quite strange in the sense that hardly a day passes without my going to check on her at the hospital since she was on admission. I took it as a routine to either resume or sometimes end my day with her at the hospital; most times very late at night. So I was worried as the text message from a younger sibling hit my phone saying, “Try and come dis morning Nma [mum] say she wan see you.”

The message really got me upset.

Being her first child, responsibilities on whatever decision to be taken rests on me. She was to undergo a surgery. My siblings and I were not ready to tell her for some reasons.

We were also not comfortable with the planned operation. Somehow she got wind of it. Upon seeing me that morning, she called me by my pet name ‘Nnaa’ and spoke to me in our dialect as usual. She asked that she be taken back home pending when we were ready.

Yes, we were ready; we could provide the money just as stipulated for the surgery at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH). But we felt the Consultant, Laparoscopic General Surgeon, LUTH, Dr. Adedapo Osinowo was not doing enough; a story for another day. My mum really would not understand the situation at hand so it was easier said than done.

Taking her back home wasn’t an option, and the surgery seemed very unlikely the way out of her situation.

However I would assure her that she was safe and would be fine just to calm her. She was very optimistic of living but unfortunately, by afternoon, she passed on. A life ended. A life once full of energy. We

Then, there was that eventful incident that earned every student of University of Lagos an expulsion.

A re-registration fee of N10,000 was mandated.

One night she had opened her box full of wrappers; those the women would call ‘Hollandis’, ‘Abada’, real quality wax materials, and blouses and promised to sell off a few should the fee be a threat to my going back to school. Such was her nature. Her words were reassuring. She never owed anyone and paid everyone their dues. She was so dear and true

were devastated and not a few people who knew her was with the news of her demise. We had moved from one hospital to another and then to another. I could recall vivid images of those moments with her closely for weeks in February as I practically abandoned my space and laptop just to be with her in the village.

Compassionate and caring; to say she was a good mother is an understatement. She gave her best and was the best mum anyone could ever think of. Testimonies abound about her from friends and relatives far and wide. Even her ‘foes’ would take pains to speak ill of her if at all. I am saddened not in the fact that she’s gone but in the sense that she went home at the time she had just begun to take reward for her labour over her children.

Simple but unique in her sense of fashion and lifestyle, ‘Madam P original’ as she was fondly called by neighbours and her associates, was generous, kind and loving.

Such love she extended to her younger siblings and their children.

She gave herself, her love, her resources, her everything. She was dedicated to caring for her children and others around her. I feel blessed and very proud that she was my mother.

Dedicated to her duty as wife, mother, grandmother and sister, she was very committed to the course of life and morals and her responsibilities she lived up to, bringing up six children – three males, three females. Indeed, she personified her name which mirrors one of the cardinal virtues, patience. She lived a life worthy of emulation. One could recall with nostalgia, fond memories of her days as trader, dealing in second-hand cloths.

The images fill my head as I travel down memory lane; my eyes filled with tears.

From the occasionally putrid Jankara market in Idumota to the popularly rambunctious Aswani market, with her sisters, she toiled to support my father just so we could have the basic necessities of life, plus education. Her strength grew even stronger with my choice to further my education. The early days of late-night studies towards and during my degree exams was not without her partly awake whenever I was at home.

Then, there was that eventful incident that earned every student of University of Lagos an expulsion.

A re-registration fee of N10,000 was mandated. One night she had opened her box full of wrappers; those the women would call ‘Hollandis’, ‘Abada’, real quality wax materials, and blouses and promised to sell off a few should the fee be a threat to my going back to school. Such was her nature. Her words were reassuring. She never owed anyone and paid everyone their dues. She was so dear and true. Well organised and disciplined, she had an indescribable inner strength. She was believable.

Born in 1955 to the family of Nze Nnawuihe and Lolo Nwagbor

Grace Iwuagwu of Aboh Village in Amaokpara Community in Nkwerre Local Government Area of Imo State, her level of education wasn’t quite reflective of her attitude or a deterrent to her positive ways. What matters mostly for her was standard and the need for value appreciation. She gave equal love and chance to her children and was readily always available to admonish, imparting that which was worthy of in ways necessary. As a child growing up, there were times the stubborn me disobeyed her and I got smacked harder for it.

She was the most precious and most beautiful in and out. She gave me life, she nurtured me, she loved me unconditionally, she taught me how to fight, to be myself and stand on my own. She taught me to fear no man but respect all.

Since her demise, sometimes I feel I could have saved her. I don’t know but sincerely so.

That thought keeps reverberating.

Maybe because of the bond we shared strongly. She had promised me that she would never place a burden on me that would outweigh me in life.

Her profound belief that God in heaven watches over our actions rekindles hope. By Thursday April 19, the Christian women group of St. Mathew Catholic Church, Lagos will gather for a service of songs in her honour at her residence. By Saturday April 21, the men and women of Okwu Nguru in Aboh Mbaise LGA of Imo State resident in Lagos will gather to pay last respects to her, a devout member of the women’s executive.

Finally by Friday May 4, she will be committed to mother earth. Prior to that will be another gathering of the Catholic Women Organisation (CWO) g (CW in Okwu Nguru village. g g It still seems see like a dream that she’s no more but b has gone to rest in the bosom of Our g O Lord. I will miss you. . . already missing g you y Dearest Mum. Everyone of us y you left behind y behin do miss you, y jjust as news of your p y passing g left everyone y in the neighbourhood, g both young y g and old devastated.

We cannot question the will q wil of our Creator. But then, we w are Happy to ppy you y have gone g t where there’s no more pain, no p more sorrow, no more suffering. sufferi ... Adieu Good Mother.

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APRIL 21, 2018 Ëž THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER

PERSPECTIVE

My Vision and Mission 2025 and the Values I Profess Fela Durotoye

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think the vision that God breathed into my heart was first received on the 23rd November 2004 and God had said to me that by December 31, 2025 that Nigeria will be undoubtedly the world’s most desirable nation to live in and he said go and build me the people that will build the nation. On May 25 2005, God said to me, raise me a generation that is empowered, motivated and stirred up to radiate natural excellence and he said to me and that generation of leaders will build their nation, shape their continent and shape the earth positively for me. So as it relates there are many things that have in terms of mandate but I think what is useful to you, and I may have read this but I may not have yet to write this and I would do that for you personally, the one of March.

As it relates to building Nigeria into the most desirable nation to live in, overtime I started to understand that there is a difference between a nation and a country. That while country is essentially a mass of life defined by borders and boundaries, a Nation is a people with a common set of 4 keys things: A common heritage, A common language, A common culture and ultimately a common value system. When you look at that, then you realise that Nigeria really is a united nation of nations, in fact we are a united country of nations because in a way, we have not yet integrated. At one time it seemed like we got it right but then with the designation of our glue, our holding glue, which is education, once education whittled out, what then happened was that our language, our official language whittled out and because people define brotherhood to a large extent nationhood by language, anybody who speaks your language almost literally is your brother and once the English language whittled out, we had to back down to indigenous languages and therein get to a point where we no longer understood each other, when we now started to hub with people who could speak my language, and anybody who doesn’t speak my language is not my brother, and I started feeling like we are just in the same land but we are not brothers.

What education had done before was to give us a superintendent language that was our official language and anybody that could speak that superintendent language didn’t care where the other one was from, because I speak your language, you speak my language,

we are brothers.

So once we lost that superintendent language, then we now went back to what you now talk of our original languages and therein we became the fractures along the lines of nation building. So Ijaw people are the people who speak Ijaw, Ishekiri people are the people who speak Ishekiri, and it doesn’t even matter whether you want to attempt to put them together as a Niger Delta region, the Ijaw people have called themselves as an Ijaw Nation, and all of a sudden we are seeing interestingly that the Hausa in the North is not an amalgamation.

Kanuri people have said we are Kanuri, Fulani people are saying we are Fulani because, we have different not just origins or our history but because we speak different languages. So the context which we have to build a nation in Nigeria, is to build one people who will regardless of where they come from they are one. To see how we can get to a point where being a Nigerian once again is bigger than being a Yoruba man, is bigger than being an Hausa man because we got there before.

I can promise you that for most of us, including ourselves, when we were growing up we didn’t know where our friends were from, it didn’t matter. I don’t think most of us ever asked where are you from. It didn’t even occur to people and the reason why was because it seemed like however they were able to make it happen there was a greater cause and joy of being together than whatever it was of where we were coming from and what differentiated us and so once diversity is beautiful, its only beautiful in unity and the only way to unify a people is to give them four key things: 1. An overriding sense of purpose and many times purpose is why we were created, but that’s only the retractive definition of purpose, the superlative definition of purpose as I believe is, is why we need to stay together, and many times purpose is framed in a vision because vision is the picture of purpose accomplished and so whenever you see the vision, it tells you the why we are here and why we need to stay together.

So you need a purpose, you need a vision but more importantly you need to carve a clear assignment for that generation of people to say if we are going to make our vision come to pass, this is what we must do on a daily basis.

That assignment is called mission. So I have talked about three things so far that will help you build a nation; One people, you need a

clear purpose that unifies us together, it is bigger than everyone of us, everybody wants to see that purpose manifested, we need a clear vision which is a beautiful picture of what that country looks like, that nation looks like and then of course you need to have a mission which is the mandate, what must we do on a daily basis and most importantly a clear value system and so purpose, vision, mission, values.

Our value system must have four characteristics; they are ABCD. 1. They must be acceptable to every single tribe, every single religion, every single class. 2. They must be beneficial to them. Otherwise you will need to impose the values, rather than have what you call values infusion, you will have to have values compulsion. Values infusion means that the values are drawn in by an inner desire to draw those values in from the outside and accept them. Nobody will be able to take them. Values compulsion means that you are pushing the values from outside into the hearts of the people, it will meet resistance.

So we cannot have value compulsion, we must have values infusion. So to have values infusion, you must have what is called a beneficial set of values to each and everyone. The third one is that you must have values that are communicable. They have to be values that a father can communicate to a child, man can communicate to wife, boss can communicate to employees, employees can say this is what I stand for, and so its important that we are able to define the language, our values, in a consistent manner, that consistently can be pushed out there, until the people say this is what defines who a Nigerian is.

If I ask you today what defines a Nigerian, we probably will have as many answers as the people that we ask, we’ve got to have a set of values that are not only clearly defined but are well articulated and it is in the articulation that people can test it against their spirits and if you say excellence is one of our values, it may be true we can say yes Nigerians we have excellence but what does excellence mean to me and what it means may be different than what it means to Simi, but if I say I will be my best in all I do particularly what I’m naturally good at, I have set for myself a bench mark that only I truly can tell but I promise you that if I give my best, even if its not good enough, it is very close to good enough and if it were possible, it will beat any standard of excellence that currently exists. So

we’ve talked about God asking us what does it mean to be one people, to be most desirable nation and to have one people, we have talked about how they must have one people, one purpose, one vision, one mission and we are talking about the set of values, they have to be acceptable, beneficial, communicable, demonstrable meaning we have to be able to do them, which means how do I do excellence, how do I do integrity, I don’t know but I can live a life of integrity and honour that I can do.

I can be a role model, if you look at those 10 values that we proffered over the years and God gave those values to me and specifically by word, we have improved on it in 2008 we got 420 guys from all the 36 states in one conference in Abuja, and they sat on it, they dissected it and in the end they literally endorsed all 10 and said it was the completion of everything they wanted to be. The 10 values: r .BLF B QPTJUJWF PO FWFSZPOF FBDI BOE everywhere they go. r #F B TPMVUJPO QSPWJEFS BOE OPU CF QBSU PG the problem to be solved. r #F B SPMF NPEFM r #F ZPVS CFTU JO XIBUFWFS ZPV EP QBSUJDVlarly the things you are naturally good at r %P UIF SJHIU UIJOH BU BMM UJNFT SFHBSEMFTT PG who is doing the wrong thing r 7BMVF UJNF BOE NBLF UIF CFTU VTF PG JU r $BSF BOE TIPX SFTQFDU UP BMM UISPVHI ZPVS words and action r $POTDJPVTMZ CVJME B HSFBU MFHBDZ TUBSUJOH now, today, and everyday r -JWF B MJGF PG JOUFHSJUZ BOE IPOPVS r .BLF ZPVS GBNJMZ ZPVS OBUJPO BOE ZPVS God proud.

Those 10 values now define who the new Nigeria is and in a way, we are creating a template for the nation builder’s alliance that in a sense first of all presents Nigeria in an option that this is who a Nigerian is and therefore that becomes the gateway for membership into the nation builder’s alliance. So having said that, lets go to the next part of it which is what can this purpose be and in my understanding, I think our purpose is to ultimately build Nigeria into the most desirable nation to live in. That’s our mission statement build Nigeria into the most desirable nation to live in.

What’s our vision, the most desirable nation to live in by December 31 2025. –Durotoye, a presidential aspirant on the platform of the Alliance for New Nigeria, ANN, delivered this address during a TeamFD round-

Issues Arising from Abacha Loot Femi Ayelabowo

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just finished reading a syndicated story in some online news portals of April 9, 2018 XJUI UIF IFBEMJOF A"CBDIB -PPU "EFPTVO blocks $17m dubious payment to Malami’s lawyers.’ From the headline, the objective of the report was clear: to assert that the payment of $17 million to the lawyers that the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Mr. Abubakar Malami (SAN), engaged as consultants to complete the process of repatriation of the $321 million Abacha loot confiscated by the Swiss government, was tantamount to re-looting the loot.

According to the report, the Minister of Finance, Kemi Adeosun, had refused to approve the payment. In addition, she was reported to have written “a strong-worded letter to President Muhammadu Buhari to raise objections to the payment following revelations on the suspected sleaze.�

The minister on Tuesday denied the report calling it false and baseless. “My attention has been drawn to false media reports of a ‘strong-worded letter to the president� objecting to the payment of $16.9 million fees to two lawyers for the recovery of Abacha funds,� she had said.

One cannot take the claim in the report that the payment is dubious hook, line and sinker as the evangelical truth until the Nigerian Government says so.

Therefore, this may just be an imprudent campaign of calumny to discredit the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation, Mr. Malami (SAN), lawyers that were engaged in the repatriation of the fund and the entire process itself. Interestingly, the report in another area referred to what it called “suspected sleaze�. Again, what that means is that the writer is not sure yet that the transac-

Late Abacha tion was sleazy or he was probably trying to play safe.

Noticeably, the pieces of information contained in the report are not entirely new. A greater part has been a rehash in the past few weeks of syndication in some sections of the media, possibly, in furtherance of some ends.

What, however, appears new is the reported claim that the Swiss lawyer, Enrico Monfrini, who started the process of tracing, confiscation and repatriation of the looted funds since 1999, that he did not ask the Nigerian government for additional fees to complete the process of repatriating the $321 million.

Whereas, his alleged request for a fresh 20

per cent professional fees on the money and his refusal to accept five per cent that the Nigerian government was ready to pay, was the reason Malami engaged the services of two Nigerian lawyers, Mr. Oladipo Okpeseyi (SAN) and Temitope Adebayo to complete the process of the repatriation of the remaining $321 million from Switzerland; Monfrini’s purported response in the report that he did not make any such request must be subjected to further confirmation and interrogation.

What could be deduced from the purported Monfrini’s statement is that he had been paid his fees by the federal government. If he had been paid his fee, why did he not complete the process? Consider his purported e-mail response to an enquiry: “I never had the audacity to claim for additional fees. This figure of 20% is simply invented. I didn’t reject any proposal made by Mr. Malami since my fees were already paid a long time before Mr. Malami’s appointment as attorney general.... “The repatriation of the $321 million was not completed by me. It’s a matter which is normally dealt between governments and which doesn’t entail the engagement of lawyers. I have no idea of the whereabouts of these $321 million. I know that they have been restituted to Nigeria by the Swiss government a few months ago. On the other hand, I don’t know why it took about three years for the two governments to agree that said restitution should be monitored by World Bank since this concept was created by me some 15 years ago.�

A careful deconstruction of Monfrini’s statements brings out some salient points, to wit: one, that Malami did not make any proposal to him; two, that the repatriation of the $321 million was not completed by him; three, that it is a matter which is normally dealt with between governments and which

does not entail the engagement of lawyers; and fourth, that he did not know why it took about three years for the two governments to agree that the said restitution should be monitored

by World Bank.

Now, to rebut Monfrini’s claim, it behoves Malami to provide documents evidencing offer and counter offer. This is the time to go beyond Monfrini’s words. That will clear the fog on that aspect. If according to Monfrini, the repatriation of the $321 million was not completed by him, it means he did not complete the transaction for which he had been paid. Why did he keep mute when he realised that his assignment had been determined unceremoniously? That questions Monfrini’s integrity. He should have taken steps to advert the attention of the Swiss government, Nigerian government and the World Bank to the development to safeguard due process.

So, from Monfrini’s admittance that he did not complete the process, it could be inferred that some other persons completed the process.

From an earlier article I read on this issue, it was clear that the team of legal consultants led

by Dipo Okpeseyi (SAN) helped to complete the process.

They reportedly provided the services that conduced to the proposition and vetting of additional documents to the MoU listing the social safety net projects that the repatriated fund would be spent on under the monitoring of the World Bank. And this perhaps answers Monfrini’s poser as to why it took about three years for the Swiss and Nigerian governments to agree that the said restitution should be monitored by the World Bank. The World Bank, as reported, did not sanction the first set of proposed projects. –Ayelabowo, a public affairs analyst, contributed this piece from Ibadan.

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER Ëž ÍşÍšËœ ͺ͸͚΀

NIM Co-ordinator, Moses Jolayemi: Buhari is Nigeria’s Aiction Moses Jolayemi, a former editor at THISDAY, is the coordinator for the Nigeria Intervention Movement (NIM) in Ekiti state. Before his appointment, he was the Managing Director and Editor-in-Chief of Newswatch newspapers, which he pioneered and ran to prominence. Prior to that, he was a member of the Editorial Board of THISDAY, pioneer Foreign Aairs Editor of Daily Independent, Head, Advert/Special projects for The News magazine, Head of the Ibadan Bureau of The Guardian newspapers. He was later invited to serve as spokesman for the former Governor of Ekiti State, Chief Segun Oni, and was later appointed as Special Adviser, Culture and Tourism. In this interview with Adedayo Adejobi, Jolayemi talks about his involvement with the Nigeria Intervention Movement (NIM) and how the much-talked-about Third Force hopes to change the dynamics of the country’s political climate, come 2019

Buhari should set up the Ministry of Excuses and maybe a federal agency for ‘I don’t know’ because our president never knows anything. He didn’t know his own chief of sta was on the board of NNPC. He didn’t know the Inspector General of Police did not carry out his instruction; the list is endless. He is quick to blame others while he remains Mr. Clean; Mr. Integrity.

There is therefore, a dire need for an urgent intervention

hat are you doing with NIM and what is the whole idea of NIM? I’ve been in journalism for a while now and I only veered into the business of government sometime in 2007 when I went to serve Ekiti State. That ended the moment our government was sacked by the Appeal Court in Ilorin in 2010. NIM as the name implies, is an intervention movement aimed at rescuing Nigeria from the current precipice. You don’t need the services of soothsayers, prophets, alfas or herbalists to know that this country is going towards a major fall, from which it may never recover, going by the crude and callous carelessness of the current President, General Muhammadu Buhari who is running this country like an undertaker. It has never happened before that a president would comfortably and happily look away while his fellow citizens are being slaughtered like cows by herdsmen who are his tribesmen.

But there was a report that the President alleged that these herdsmen are actually from Libya and not Fulani.

At what point did this President get to know that? How long did he take him to know that, after years of carnage and several hundreds of killings of innocent Nigerians? Now that he is desperately seeking re-election, he wants to shift blame as he has always done in the last three years? His inability to make any meaningful impact in the lives of Nigerians in all areas you can think of, he says is because Jonathan’s government was corrupt. Now that Nigerians are crying that they have never felt so unsafe in their own country, our clueless president is taking us to Libya that that is where the herdsmen came from.

So do we go to Libya now and beg the relations of the killer Libyan herdsmen to to placate the killers? This man probably thinks we are all fools in this country. How did these Libyans enter Nigeria? Did they come in by road, air or sea? Or did they trek in with their cows from Libya? And on getting here, they would now decide to be killing Nigerians? They are the same people asking for grazing colonies from the government of Nigeria? They were the same people who sought and got the backing of the defence minister who did not hide his support for them? They are Libyans indeed.

As one of my friends suggested, Buhari should set up the Ministry of Excuses and maybe a federal agency for ‘I don’t know’ because our president never knows anything. He didn’t know his own chief of staff was on the board of NNPC. He didn’t know the Inspector General of Police did not carry out his instruction; the list is endless. He is quick to blame others while he remains Mr. Clean; Mr. Integrity.

There is therefore, a dire need for an urgent intervention. Our country needs to be rescued from these undertakers in government. We need to install a credible and

Jolayemi

responsible leadership that will bring back smiles that seem to have disappeared from the faces of Nigerians. That is the whole essence of NIM and that is what I am doing in NIM. We need to take our country back.

All of us, you and I . We need to take full ownership of our land. If we don’t do it now, we might as well forget it and see ourselves as truly a wasted generation.

For a layman on the streets of Lagos and Kano, what they can relate with or easily understatnd is a political party.

They want to know the party to go for especially in 2019, considering the fact that majority of the people are reportedly fed up with the two prominent parties. Don’t you think this is like an intellectual movement, a kind of pressure group that will have the shape of an underdog and at end of the day, nothing happens?

(Cuts in) No, no no, that’s not the point.

That’s why I said we must rise up and do it now. We are gathering more and more members across all the zones of the country and you will marvel at the number of

people who have signed in. That alone is a conviction that we are not off track because it means our position is the popular position of the majority of Nigerians. Except the few who are feeding fat by serving in this pretentious and inept government, I have not seen any sane Nigerian applauding this wicked regime.

Buhari has declared his intention to run for president in 2019. He said he was doing so because majority of Nigerians appreciate what his government is doing. What is your position on this?

President Buhari is not only grossly incompetent, he is also insincere and highly insensitive. If not how on earth could he muster the courage to tell such a fat lie to the entire world that he declared his intention to run for a second term because ‘The majority of Nigerians appreciate what we are doing, and that is why I am re-contesting.’ It is annoying and insulting knowing that this is most untrue and as a leader and an elder statesman, this is a very

wicked a lie. Who are those majority of Nigerians? Was he referring to the families of thousands of people who have been killed either by herdsmen or Boko Haram?

Is it the millions of unemployed youth who populate the land? Tell me one specific area of achievement that Buhari can point to?

Just name one, my brother; is it healthcare, education, power, infrastructure, economy, security, name one please. This man has not fulfilled one, I mean one single campaign promise he made. It is a big shame.

Anyone who votes Buhari in 2019 is an enemy of this country because this president is just not getting it right at all.

May be deep down him he intends to do well but he is clearly incapacitated.

He cannot cope with the rigours of that office to start with. He is also intellectually ill-equipped to understand how things run in today’s world. A president who does not know how to send a text message, how does he cope, when he is surrounded by sharp guys who are internet savvy and smart enough to make things happen for themselves while pretending to be fighting corruption with him?

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APRIL 21, 2018 ˾ THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER

INTERVIEW Don’t you think the President is doing well fighting against corruption?

I always laugh when people refer to Buhari as fighting corruption. Buhari is not fighting any corruption. In fact, he is corrupt himself. You cannot tell me you are not a thief when you accept or gladly enjoy the proceeds of theft. Buhari works and wines with known corrupt elements and yet he wants to say he is a clean man? His close aides who have been accused of varying degrees of stealing what has he done to them? What about those who sponsored his election?

If the president is truly fighting corruption how he has not received commendation from the international communities, lets even assume that the rest of us in this country are mere ‘’wailing wailers’’? The truth is that the veil has been lifted and the whole world has been able to see through Buhari’s insincerity and shenanigans. Is anyone in doubt that the so-called fight has been one-sided? The moment you find your way into the APC, you have saved your head against Buhari’s axe and you remain sinless. So everyone in APC is a saint? Now they have started publishing names of looters, lets see how many APC members will be named. I may even make the list if someone to shows him this interview.

How do you intend to dislodge an incumbent?

One of our main strategies is to encourage all eligible voters to go out and get their voters cards. That is their number one weapon. We are also registering our members across the length and bradth of the country. At the last count, we had over two million members and that must have increased tremendously because that figure is more than six weeks old now. We want as many as those who desire freedom from social and economic slavery the country is in right now to come forward and join the movement. At the appropriate time, there will be a merger of all the interest groups because at the moment there are so many movements and groups across the country. We all know that we have a common problem, a common affliction and that is Buhari. It beats me hollow that a man who has failed abysmally in every area he was voted to work on could have the presence of mind to seek another term of failure. Like former President Obasanjo said a few days ago, he said one of the things he, Obasanjo, learnt in military training is that you don’t reinforce failure.

If truly that’s part of military training then may be President Buhari did not attend that course chief Obasanjo was referring to.

Having gathered all Nigerians who desire a real change and all the forces have come together, then we can together dislodge this failure.

Who among those jostling president is your preferred candidate?

We don’t have a preferred candidate yet. But I can assure you that at the right time, the right candidate will emerge. The profile of that candidate must match the ideals on which NIM and other collation groups are couched. Don’t forget that the various groups all have similar agenda and objective which is first rescuing this nation from the hands of plunderers, then establishing a government that works for all, not a certain section of the country. A government gives all a sense of ownership and one that has the capacity to take our nation away from the woods, create an environment that is conducive for people to realise their potentials and aspirations and be a prosperous nation for once. There are many distinguished individuals who can fit into this description and when such individuals are located, then the actual journey of a new Nigeria begins. From all available evidence, this president cannot lead Nigeria to any destination of peace and prosperity. He cannot. He has done his best and we all have seen his best.

How do you intend to win as many people as possible into your fold?

What is important is getting people to know that they now have another way

Jolayemi

out of this political, social and economic doldrums. Our people are disillusioned.

They feel trapped. Every member of the APC you see will tell you that have made a grave mistake and they don’t know what to do. But help is near. To answer your question, funding may not be a problem at the end of the day because those who believe in this course and who have the means will support. The fact is that we are not distributing money as political parties do. We don’t even have it anyway but I can assure you that the goodwill we have among the people will break any barrier, just wait and see.

Is your movement same as that of former President Olusegun Obasanjo?

Yes and no. Yes, because almost every inch of NIM’s ideals, beliefs and philosophies are shared by Obasanjo’s Coalition of Nigeria Movement (CNM). You see, dislodging the present regime should not be as difficult as some think because all the coalition groups and almost every individual on the streets knows that we all have a common enemy, a common affliction and that is the APC government and that is at the federal level. You won’t say that of Lagos, for instance, which is constantly and consistently showing itself as a model of how states should be run.

There may be a few shortfalls here and there which again is not unexpected, the fact is that Lagos is working. That further tells you that our affliction is mostly at the federal level. That is why Buhari needs to be shown the way out. No because he is not the founder or member of NIM. And that is all. Every other thing points in the same direction. Obasanjo certainly means well for this country and he has seen it all. What you and I can’t see standing on a 32-storey building Obasanjo can see it lying on his bed.

But the same Obasanjo played an influential role in bringing in Buhari’s emergency?

If you ask Obasanjo I’m sure he will tell you he regrets allowing Buhari get there. But I think Obasanjo did what was expedient at that time. I am not his spokesman and I cannot swear to know what is

running through his mind right now but the fact is that Obasanjo must have had some reservations about Buhari but I am also sure he never envisaged that the man could be so bad. Nobody knew he was this bad, honestly. Not even his fellow party members. I don’t want to believe Ashiwaju Tinubu himself knew the extent of Buhari’s incompetence. I am sure he wouldn’t have entered into that merger with Buhari’s CPC then. Tinubu also means well for this country, I strongly believe.

Buhari has shocked everybody with his unprecedented failure but it will amount to rocking the boat if someone like Tinubu comes out to speak against his party leader the way Obasanjo is doing. In my view if you mistakenly drive your friend’s car to a ditch, I don’t think it’s fair to abandon it and walk away. You should seek help from others around and help bring the car back on the road. We all made the mistake together. I think that is what Obasanjo is trying to do now; to give the country back to us Buhari is a failed experiment, a major mistake and we must correct that mistake in the next election.

Don’t you think the PDP should reorganise itself and return to power?

That would have been the natural choice under the circumstance. The fact is that APC has successfully demystified itself by the monumental failure of Buhari and that should give the PDP a golden chance to worm itself back into the hearts of Nigerians. Of course, PDP has been badly bruised especially by the strong APC propaganda machinery which was used to demonise the former President, Goodluck Jonathan, but with the turn of events in the country , it has become clear that Jonathan is not as bad as he was painted and the fact is that Nigerians fared better under him. They made us believe that Jonathan’s government was government of corruption but Nigeria was still Nigeria, not this George Orwell’s ‘Animal Farm’ that the country has been turned to where life is ‘short and brutish.’

Unfortunately, while APC has demystified itself, PDP seems to have diminished itself. Looking at the way it is presently constructed and configured, it is unlikely

it will be well-positioned to win back the confidence of the people. So both the APC and the PDP can only enjoy their space in history.

Ekiti State’s election is some months away. What role is NIM playing in ensuring that the best man is voted for the job?

Ekiti and Osun states have been discussed at the national level of our movement and efforts are on to ensure that the best candidates gets the job. The race is close by but I will not want to say much about the strategies being put in place but we have our members in all the 16 local government areas of the state.

Who are the movers and shakers of your movement?

I don’t know what you mean by movers and shakers. In every human arrangement, some people must leadsome people. So we have Dr. Olisa Agbakoba, SAN, and Dr. Abdul-Jhalil Tafawa Balewa are the two co-chairs. We have people like Pat Utomi, Donald Duke, Rabiu Ishyaku Rabiu, Frank Nweke Jr and it goes on and on like that.

The secretariat is headed by Mr. Wale Okunniyi. At the zonal level, you have Dr. Olu Agunloye as the coordinator for the West while NIM National Secretary is Prof.

Anthony Kila who is like the engine room of the secretariat. We also have coordinators in all the 36 states among whom is yours sincerely for Ekiti and Chief Bolaji Ayorinde, SAN, a legal icon and committed member for Oyo State, among others.

But you see these people are not the actual movers and shakers. They are merely running or coordinating affairs. The actual movers and shakers are Nigerians at home and in the Diaspora, who desire a better, saner government that will guarantee better, happier and prosperous life for all.

In other words, the movers and shakers are you and I. I believe you so desperately desire a better living and a surer future for your children. So NIM is yours. Take it!

That’s why you and I need to gird our loins and take our destinies in our own hands and totally exterminate this evil regime of Buhari so that sanity and safety can return to the country.

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˞ ͺ͚, 2018

POLITY

Aisha Buhari Wins NACJ Integrity Woman of the Year Award Benneth Oghifo

T

he National Executive Council of the Nigerian Association of Christian Journalists (NACJ) has declared First Lady, Aisha Buhari as the 2018 Integrity Woman of the Year.

The NACJ in a press statement yesterday said the emergence of the first lady in this category was due to her spirit of boldness, sincerity, patriotism, and high sense of Integrity.

NACJ said: “We recall how the first lady drew attention worldwide when she boldly criticized her husband in an interview with the BBC, saying she feared his administration was veering from its mandate to the people. Mrs. Buhari also recently expressed doubt that she would support her husband if he seeks reelection unless he implemented immediate changes in personnel and policies.

However, this was not to impose herself on her husband, but an enviable display of integrity.�

The NACJ statement signed by its secretary, Charles Okhai, noted that the its Annual Lecture/Award was conceptualised to change the mind set of Nigerians, “so they could appreciate the virtues of integrity and consequently develop a positive perception of leadership positions both in private and public sectors.�

The statement continued: “This year theme of the event titled, “Integrity is Everything,� is to emphasize the impact Integrity could have in a given society like ours. For instance, a nation that has the

Aisha Buhari

Ben Bruce

misfortune to be run by warped-minded leaders can never attain her full potentials. “Integrity is a required virtue in every area of human endeavour, be it business, administration, politics, governance, and in every aspect of human life. Without integrity, success is not guaranteed. “This year, our list of awardees, which comes in various categories, is a perfect reflection of the fact that we can improve in our characters and become a better people, and a better Nation.�

Award nominees for the 2018 NAJC are: Governor Nyesom Wike of Rivers State; Governor Aminu Bello Masari of Katsina

State; Governor Samuel Ortom of Benue State; Deputy Governor of Nasarawa State, Silas Agara; the Deputy Governor of Imo State, Prince Eze Madumere and Dr. Samson Ogah, Chairman Master Energy.

Others are Hon Justice Opeyemi Oke, Chief Judge of Lagos State; Deacon James Nosa, Chief Executive officer, Incentive Media; Pastor Paul Adefarasin, General Overseer, House On The Rock; Dr. Alex Otti, the immediate past Group Managing Director of Diamond Bank; Deacon Iyke Kanu, Chairman Etoks Communications, Publishers of Classic Magazine; Chief Felix Idiga, Chief Executive officer, JAFA

Group; Comptroller Nike Oladunni of Nigeria Customs; Mr. Alibaba Akpobome, Nigeria’s foremost Stand-up comedian; and the duo of Mrs. Christiana Akindolie, and Judith Eze Usiholo whose great services to humanity are unequalled.

NACJ is also honoring “the late heroes of integrity, Col Adekunle Fajuyi and General Odimegwu Ojukwu.� It said their display of discipline and integrity as leaders during their time deserve commendation.

The NACJ award slated to hold on Saturday, May 26, will also play host to Dr. Orji Uzor Kalu, former governor of Abia State, who will speak on the theme: Integrity Is Everything, while distinguished Senator Ben Murray Bruce, will deliver the Keynote address tagged, “Legislation with Integrity, The Key Factor to Building A Virile Nation.�

The NACJ continued: “We’re parading men and women who are integrity conscious. The person of integrity is not necessarily the one that is infallible, or perfect. Rather, the person of integrity is one who is self- disciplined, and selfcommitted to doing what is right at all times even when he or she is at the receiving end.

The Award is a crusade, a symbol of war against corruption. Former Inspector General of Police, AIG Tunde Ogunsakin, our 2014 integrity Man of the Year, who once rejected a bribe of N900 million as CP, Special Fraud Unit, will double as the Chief Host, and Chairman of the occasion.�

L-R: Head, Corporate Communications, Ikeja Electric, Felix Ofulue; Dean, Student Aairs, University of Lagos, Prof.

Ademola Adeleke; and Students’ Hall Mistress, Faculty of Education, University of Lagos, Mrs. Blessing Anyikwa, during the presentation of Edutainment Power Play Board Game to Anyikwa by Ofulue in Lagos... recently

L-R: Chairman, Senate Committee on Marine Transport, Senator Sanni Yerima;, Managing Director/Partner Hamburg Port Consulting, Dr. -Ing Felix Kaisiske; and Chairman, Senate Committee on Land Transport, Senator Gbenga Ashafa, during a study tour of intermodal transport/logistics facilities in Hamburg, Germany, conducted by the Nigerian Shippers Council and Ministry of Transportation, ..recently

L-R: Chief Executive OďŹƒcer, Visionscape, Mr. John Irvine; General Manager, Lagos Waste Management Agency (LAWMA), Mr. Segun Adeniyi; Director, Lagos State,Enviromental Services, Dr. Iyabo Phillips; and Special Adviser to Lagos Governor on Cleaner Lagos, Mr. Adebola Shobri, at the media presentation on cleaner Lagos initiative, organised by Lagos Ministry of Enviroment and Visionscape in Lagos, yesterday PHOTO: ETOP UKUTT

A cross section of members of Golden Stride Empowerment Initiative (GSEI), during their visit to Modupe Cole Memorial Child Care and Treatment School in Lagos... recently

53

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ ͺ͹˜ ͺ͸͹΀

Politics of Ozu Abam-Ndi Oji- Ndi Okereke-Arochukwu Road Orji j Kalu Okorie

t is a popular saying in the South Eastern part of Nigeria that, “there is no easy route to Arochukwu”. Arochukwu is an ancient name of a historic empire that has made history in the past and present. It is one of the most popular communities as it is noted for her merchandise in trade and education and settlement.

Arochukwu thrived so well during and before the colonial period in Nigeria but, despite its long standing fame in education, trade and hospitality; one thing that has eluded her is a good road network.

It is also worthy of mention too that, Arochukwu which presently is the headquarters of Arochukwu Local Government Area (one of the 774 LGAs in Nigeria); is the only Local Government that member communities pass through another Local Government before assessing her headquarters. Arochukwu Local Government Area is made up of five clans namely: Arochukwu, Ututu, Ihechiowa, Abam, and Isu. There are several roads linking Arochukwu; but sadly none of the roads is passable.

The people are blessed academically, in trades and skills. The people are also predominantly farmers. Food items such as garri, yam, pepper, melon, rice and other raw materials such as rubber lumps, and timbers are produced in large quantities from the area. It is also of note that there is large deposit of limestone in the area.

In November 2003, the great people of Abam Onyerubi played host to the former Governor of Abia state – Dr. Orji Uzor

Ikpeazu Kalu (MON) in a grand reception where the Governor in response to the request of the people, promised that he will award the only road linking Abam (one of the member communities) to her local government headquarters. It was cheery news to all sons and daughters of not only Abam people but, the entire people of Arochukwu Local Government Area as there was no good road for the people to also access the state capital.

Again, in July 2004, the Governor Orji

Uzor who came to Abam to flag off the new development of rubber plantation reiterated his resolve to rehabilitate the road as his appreciation to the people of Arochukwu Local Government Area for their massive support to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Years went by without any sign of the government’s preparedness to make real their promise.

In 2005 during the burial of one of their prominent son-Late Chief S.N. Okpi, the Governor who was serving out his second term assured the people once again that the said Ozu Abam Ndi Oji Ndi Okereke Abam Arochukwu road must be completed before his tenure ends. He further said that the road will be christened “Chief Smart Okpi road”.

Dr. Orji Uzo Kalu’s tenure ended with the road only appearing repeatedly in the State yearly budget. In May, 2007 the baton of governance was handed over to Chief Theodore A. Orji. To many, it was as if all hopes were lost since a Governor from the same Senatorial district could not affect the rehabilitation of the road. But just one year after the enthronement of Chief T. A. Orji’s government, the government awarded the contract for the rehabilitation of the road; an action that brought so much joy to the people of Arochukwu.

Surprisingly, the rehabilitation of the 34 kilometers road was so slow that only about 2 kilometers was done before the end of Chief T. A. Orji’s first tenure. Then came another campaign period of 2011 where during his campaign, he assured the people that if voted again, he must complete the road rehabilitation before the

end of his second tenure.

There is a saying “that one is easily deceived by the mere mention of what he desired most” the people voted 100% again to People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in anticipation that the road will be a pay back to them. Surprisingly again, another two kilometers was realised in his second tenure.

In 2015, the road became a campaign topic, and the people again voted. 10 years down the line, only 10 kilometers has been asphalted with the bridge constructed. This simply means “one year one kilometer”, and it translates to completing the road within the next 28 years going by the current pace. Yet while the people rejoice for the government’s intervention in constructing Igwu Bridge linking Abam and Arochukwu; it is still embarrassing to note that the road which rehabilitation work has been on for 10 years is only passable during the dry season, as the miry nature of the terrain makes it impassable during rainy season.

It is most disheartening even as the other road linking the state capital through Ohafia to Arochukwu is not the best either.

The people are aware that now election is at the corner, that the various contesting parties would use the road again as a campaign topic. Is it not shameful that for 10 years, a 34-kilometer road linking five densely populated communities could not be completed at least to give them a sense of belonging?

–Orji K. Okorie writes from Ndi Oji Abam, Abia State.

Ige Salutes Adeseun on Election as Ogbomoso Pivotal Club President Benneth Oghifo

M

r. Adeseun emerged the new leader of the Club after he was unanimously elected as President at the Club’s Annual General Meeting. Adeseun, a fellow of both the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria and the Nigeria Academy of Pharmacy, succeeds Dr. Akin Onigbinde (SAN).

In a statement, Ige opined that members of Ogbomosho Pivotal Club “have also seen in our Chair, what we saw in him some 15 months ago when we chose him as our leader. I understand this great Club has been led by such eminent sons of the land of warriors as retired generals, captains of industry, career diplomats and civil servants”.

“That our own Chair now steps into their obviously XXXL shoes is an attestation of the propriety of our choice and an indication of what lies ahead for us” Ige recalled that OTrafford’s highly acclaimed successful transition from 2, Cameron Road Ikoyi to its present Club House at the 81 Division Nigeria Army Officers Mess stands out among other laudable achievements of the Adeseun-led EXCO. He described the former Chairman of the Snooker and Billiads Section of the Lagos Country Club as a “highly gifted leader of men and manager of materials”.

R-L: Immediate Past President, Ogbomoso Pivotal Club, Dr. Akin Onigbinde, SAN; President, Ogbomoso Pivotal Club, Alhaji Remi Adeseun; former President, Ogbomoso Pivotal Club, Mr. Festus Ajani; Secretary, Ogbomoso Pivotal Club, Alhaji Sola Adeseun

“On behalf of the Trustees, EXCO and the generality of our members, I wish you a most successful tenure.

“Your antecedents both here and in several other offices you have held in the past and currently still hold across a broad spectrum are

the greatest assurances that you will leave the Ogbomosho Pivotal Club better than you met it,” Ige concluded.

RCCG LP30 Hosts Redemption Cup Tournament’s Finalists

he RCCG Lagos Province 30 recently held awards and presentation of trophies to the finalists of the Redemption Cup Tournament at its headquarters, Iba, Ojo, Lagos. It was preceded with a thanksgiving service.

Pastor Paul Emmanuel of Lagos Province 30 presented the trophy to the Champion of the tournament, Agelete F.C, while his associate Senior Pastors presented the runners up - Ikogbo F.C. and the Network F.C - their respective trophies. The event is an initiative of the RCCG National Headquarters with the aim of empowering youths using soccer to draw young people to Christ. “The power of football and the influence it wields on young people in the community resulted in taking the gospel to the people with the instrumentality of Pastor Tunji Adegoke disclosed that football, which is a popular sport in the the tournament was organised as part country,” stated the church.

of Christian Social Responsibility (CSR) activities of the church, to commemo-

rate the 2018 birthday of the General Overseer, Daddy E.A. Adeboye, and “to further spread the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ towards the salvation of mankind and for the youth to exhibit their God-given talents in soccer.”

Pastor Emmanuel further disclosed that apart from the Redemption Cup tournament anchored by the Missions Department, his Province had in the recent past, empowered so many youths; sunk boreholes, provided free computer and video-camera handling training and other social amenities including medical services for communities within the jurisdiction of the church.

He also expressed satisfaction with the numbers of youth that took part in the event, saying that more sporting activities will soon be organised to discover more talents among the youth in the church.

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ ͺ͹˜ ͺ͸͹Ͷ

NEWS

Bandits Kill 30 in Zamfara as IGP Orders Transfer of Kwara CP Mohammed Aminu in Sokoto and Hammed Shittu in Ilorin No fewer than 30 persons were reportedly killed in Kabaro and Danmani villages in Maru Local Government Area of Zamfara State.

This is coming on the heels of the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Mr. Ibrahim Idris ordering the transfer of the Kwara State police commissioner, Alhaji Lawan Ado with immediate effect, replacing him with Mr. Aminu Pai Saleh.

An eye witness, Shuaibu Kabaro, told journalists on Friday that the invaders had earlier attacked the two communities but the villagers informed security agents leading to the arrest of three bandits.

Shuaibu said the gunmen went and mobilised their gang and returned in large numbers to carry out the attack, leading to the death of 30 people and many others injured.

Confirming the incident to newsmen, the Police Public Relations Officer of the Zamfara Command, DSP Mohammed Shehu, said many villagers had deserted their homes for fear of further attacks which now characterised the mode of operations of the gunmen.

He stated that with the presence of security personnel in the area, many of the villagers had returned home.

The PPRO further explained that

mobile police men working with the military and other security agents were immediately mobilised to the affected areas and that peace and normalcy had been restored.

He however, said the actual number of those killed was still being collated.

"We are still trying to ascertain the actual number of people killed in the attack. l cannot give you any figure at the moment until this is done," he stated.

Also speaking, Maru Local Government Chairman, Alhaji Salisu Dangulbi, confirmed the deaths to newsmen.

The transfer of the Police Commissioner according to THISDAY checks might not be unconnected with the recent attack of five banks in a robbery that happened in Offa local government council of the state.

The attack had claimed about 17 lives including nine policemen while several people sustained serious injuries and now recuperating at University of Teaching Hospital and General Hospital, Ilorin.

The IGP also deployed two mobile units of the police force to Offa where they had made some arrest in connection with the attack.

The development has led to the arrest of about 20 people including Mr. Kayode Opadokun, son of the foremost activist, Chief Ayo Opadokun.

WE CELEBRATE YOU...

L-R: Business Manager, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, Coscharis Motors Plc, Mr Tolulope Gbadamosi; The British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Mr. Paul Arkwright; General Manager, Marketing and Corporate Communications, Coscharis Group, Mr Abiona Babarinde at the reception to celebrate the official birthday of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II at the official residence of the British Deputy High Commissioner in Lagos, yesterday

Sources close to the state police command in Ilorin yesterday told our correspondent that, the state police commissioner, Mr. Ado had been redeployed to Police College in Kaduna. Sources said that, the

police authority has named Mr. Aminu Paid Saleh as the new police Commissioner.

Saleh who was until his new appointment was in charge of Police College, Kaduna.

Sources added that, the new commissioner would resume duty in Ilorin yesterday (Friday) Contacted, the state police command Public Relations Officer, Deputy Superintendent of Police,

Ajayi Okasanmi confirmed the redeployment of former commissioner of police.

He however declined further comment on the new posting of his former boss.

Moghalu Faults APC Corruption War, Harps on Quality Leadership, Developmental Journalism

Keyamo Attacked in Awka over Appointment as Buhari's Campaign Spokesman

Emma Okonji and Nume Ekeghe

David-Chyddy Eleke in Awka

Former Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria and Presidential Aspirant in the 2019 election, Professor Kingsley Moghalu has accused the federal government of bias in its fight against corruption.

According to him, instead of fighting war against corruption in the pages of newspapers, the government should be able to investigate corrupt leaders, take them to court and jail them in order to prove to Nigerians and the entire world that it was fighting corruption.

Moghalu dropped the hint during The Niche 4th Anniversary Lecture held in Lagos yesterday, where he was the keynote speaker.

He said: “The recent controversy over the so called looters list published by one political party or one government, and another political party responding to it, is all confusion and lack of quality leadership. If you have a list of looters, you should be investigating them, proving your case in court and getting them jailed.

That is what they should do and not making noise on the pagers of the newspapers and playing political football with corruption instead of fighting corruption.”

When the fight against corruption is not legitimate, the society becomes even more divided because the general public will be compelled to believe that fighting corruption has become a tool to intimidate,

suppress and to create a very bad image about the political opponent,” he added.

He called on Nigerians to vote for leaders with global view in the next general elections. According Moghalu, Nigeria needs to become a worldview state. Only then can journalism in Nigeria play a developmental role in line with the worldview.

"Without an overarching worldview, what happens is what we have at present, where several smaller views are holding sway in various parts of the country.

These narrow worldview snare driven by ethnic and religious considerations and most importantly, corruption and a lust for power.

Governor Obiano Inaugurates Anambra State Entrepreneurship Council The Governor of Anambra State, Willie Obiano has inaugurated a 13-member Youth Empowerment, Entrepreneurship and Creative Economy council which is chaired

by Dr. Nicky Okoye, CEO Anabel Group and former Group Executive Director Transcorp Plc. The Council has among its terms of reference, to create a reliable database of entrepreneurs and youths that the state government would find resourceful for its youths development initiatives as well as to develop a result -oriented framework using the creative economy to engage and empower youths and also advise government on other youths-related issues. The council is also expected to mobilise the Strong Anambra State Entrepreneurship community both at home and in the diaspora, for a collective partnership targeted

at the subsequent development of Anambra State.

Other members of the Council are the Commissioners in charge of relevant Ministries including Commissioner for Youth Empowerment and Entrepreneurship; Bonaventure Enemali, Commissioner for Arts, Culture and Tourism; Sally Mbanefo, Commissioner for Agriculture Mechanisation, Processing and Export; Afam Mbanefo, and Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning; Mark Okoye, other members include the Managing Director Anambra Small Business Agency; Clement Chukwuka, Mr. Kene Mkparu Managing Director Film House Cinemas, Mr. Obi Asika founder Social Media Week Lagos, Ndidi Nwuneli Managing Partner Sahel Consulting, Chika Nwobi founder Mtech among others.

Governor Obiano while inaugurating the council, said his government relies on the wealth of experience of members at this time to make a difference in the Government efforts at drastically reducing unemployment among youths in the state.

He urged the Council to look beyond their stipulated terms of reference to develop initiatives that government and the private sector alike can fund to make life more meaningful for the youths, assuring them of the full support of his administration.

The Chairman of the Council, Dr. Okoye said the creation of the council indicated clearly that Governor Obiano understood that the major challenge of our nation is unemployment and he was ready to address it.

Mr. Festus Keyamo, SAN, was yesterday attacked at the premises of the Federal High Court, Awka, Anambra State for accepting President Muhammadu Buhari's appointment as spokesman of his campaign organisations for the 2019 presidential election.

Keyamo was attacked by an Anambra businessman, Bobby Uzochukwu who expressed disappointment that Keyamo, a human rights lawyer could accept an appointment from a president known to have violated human rights serially.

He accused him of selling out by accepting to serve as the spokesman of President Muhammadu Buhari in the 2019 general elections.

The SAN was recently appointed the Director, Strategic Communications for President Muhammadu Buhari’s 2019 presidential campaigns.

Keyamo who was the counsel for a defendant in the August 6 killings at St Philip's Catholic Church, Ozubulu, Anambra State was addressing the press at the court complex when the businessman verbally attacked him, calling him unprintable names.

The situation abruptly ended the press interview being granted by

Keyamo, causing the Senior Advocate to enter his car and leave.

But still fuming after Keyamo had left, Uzochukwu said he would have done worse things if the SAN had stayed back.

He said," I know Keyamo. He's my friend. I was surprised when I heard that he accepted to serve Buhari. This is betrayal of the highest order. "We had thought Keyamo would replace the late Gani; but see what he has done, consenting to serve somebody who has no interest of the people at heart.

"I would have done more things on him this afternoon, but as you can see he ran away."

2019: PDP Moves to Form Shadow Govt Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja Ahead of the 2019 elections, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has said that it would set up a shadow cabinet to pilot its roadmap towards national economic recovery and good governance.

The main opposition party while appraising the statement allegedly made by President Muhammadu Buhari about Nigerian youths, PDP said it disagreed with the tag of laziness, adding that it was direct injury on the sensibility of our youths known worldwide to be hardworking.

In a communique issued at the end of its emergency national executive meeting, PDP described last Wednesday's invasion of the Senate chambers as a direct attack on the sovereignty of Nigeria and her integrity as a democratic nation.

PDP said it had thrown its doors open to Nigerians in a determined effort to ensure that it becomes

a rallying point to rescue the country from the misrule of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

As part of its resolutions at the NEC meeting, PDP said its National Working Committee had been mandated to commence action towards forming a shadow government.

"Finally, the NEC directs that the National Working Committee commences action towards the establishment of a shadow cabinet to pilot PDP's roadmap towards national economic recovery and good governance, in line with the wishes and aspirations of Nigerians, ahead of the 2019 general elections".

The party said that after an exhaustive deliberation of issues of urgent national importance, the NEC resolved to "lead a strong conversation and discussion towards a formal coalition of democratic forces to guarantee Nigerians the much desired all-inclusive platform ahead of 2019 general elections

"That the PDP doors remain widely open to all Nigerians, groups and like-minded political parties to foster a strong rallying point for the determined quest by Nigerians to rescue the nation from the misrule of the APC and enthrone good governance in our country.

"That the PDP deploys the instrument of its democratic structures at all levels across the country to legitimately and urgently rally all Nigerians to vote out the APC and return the nation to the path of national cohesion, stability and prosperity for the good of all".

On the recent security breach at National Assembly which resulted in stealing of the Mace by thugs, the PDP said it was calling for immediate prosecution of Senator Ovie Omo-Agege and all those involved in this treasonable act.

It also demanded a system inquest of the security situation in the country.

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER Ëž ÍşÍšËœ ͺ͸͚͜

55

Professor Johnbull Knocks Jungle Justice

IMF/WORLD BANK SPRING MEETING ...

L-R: Minister of Finance, Mrs. Kemi Adeosun, receiving the Chief Executive, Crown Agents, Fergus Drake; Events and Meetings Consultant, Jacqueline Romoff; and Partnership Manager, Duncan Hart, during a meeting between Nigeria and officials of the British firm on the sideline of the ongoing 2018 IMF/World Bank Spring Meetings in Washington D.C. Abayomi Adeshida

Ex-Military President, Babangida Joins SDP Onyebuchi EzigboinAbuja Former military president, General Ibrahim Gbadamosi Babangida has finally pitched tent with the Social Democratic Party (PDP).

He made the declaration to identify with the party on Thursday night while receiving leaders of SDP in his Hill Top Mansion residence in Minna, Niger state.

The National Publicity Secretary of SDP, Alpha Mohammed who confirmed the move by the former Head of state in telephone interview with THISDAY on Friday said that the leadership of the SDP met with Babngida in his Minna home and presented the membership card to him.

When asked if is true that former military president has joined SDP, Mohammed said: "Yes IBB has joined SDP and he even said that

if he had been young he would have led the youth wing. He also recommended SDP to the current generation of Nigerian youths and women and we presented him with membership card. Today he is the father of SDP in Nigeria. As we recall he was the creator of SDP when he was in office."

In a video clip made available to THISDAY by the party Spokesman, Babangida said he supports the vision of SDP and was very confident in the ability of leadership of the party to do the right thing for the country "I am very happy to be with you tonight and I am also happy that the vision we had for this country is also what is driving your political party.

I want you to remain firm and to ensure that you lead this country as the people are willing to follow whoever is going do that and I think

the leadership of the party is ready to do just that. If I haven't been too old, I would have loved to lead the youth vanguard of the SDP. "I want to assure you that I have interest in your political party and I am sure that you are going to reach out to other Nigerians and try to convince them on what you will do for them.

I advise that you engage in politics of issue and not that of insults. Like Olu Falae has said, it is already about 32 years, perhaps if we had kept with the plans we would have gone beyond where are today. But it is not too late I believe that the leadership of the SDP will do the right thing.

Speaking on his expectations for the party ahead of the 2019 elections, Babangida said that from the core of the leadership of the SDP, he was convinced that it would win the support of Nigerians.

"The security and wellbeing of the people is very important. I think this is best time for this and Nigerians must rally round you to ensure that this is realisable and I know that it will be done. I have a lot confidence and I have never said this to any party before. The party is lucky to have people who contributed to this country, people's whose contributions to the country is legendary.

"I remember when Jerry Gana was chairman of MAMSER, one of his prime mission was to educate the masses and the level of awareness then was not high as it is now. So you have the opportunity now to take advantage of the digital age to pass a lot of information to men of this country who constitute over 65% of the population. If you succeed in doing this, I think it will be better for this country. "

Police Commission Promotes Mo Ibrahim: Nigeria, Others Lose $2bn Oshodi-Glover, Magu, Others Annually through Brain Drain Cont from page 6 Paul Obi in Abuja

The Police Service Commission (PSC) yesterday promoted Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG), Agbola OshodiGlover, Commissioner of Police (CP) Ghazzali Muhammed, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ibrahim Magu to Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG), Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) and Commissioner of Police (CP) respectively.

Speaking on the promotion, PSC Head of Press and Public Relations, Ikechukwu Ani said: "The Police Service Commission has approved the promotion of eighteen senior Police Officers.

The promotions are one of the high points of the Commission’s 27th Plenary Meeting which ended in Abuja today, Friday, April 20th, 2018.

"The Meeting was presided over by the Commission’s Chairman Sir. Dr. Mike Mbama Okiro, a retired Inspector General of the Police."

Ani stated that "the Commission approved the promotion of AIG Agbola Oshodi-Glover in charge of Zone 11, Osogbo, to the next rank of a Deputy Inspector General of Police.

"CP Ghazzali Mohammed, Commissioner of Police, Administration, DLS, Force Headquarters

and CP Peace Ibekwe Abdallah, former Commissioner of Police, Ebonyi State Command and currently, CP, Force Intelligence Bureau, Force Headquarters were promoted to Assistant Inspector General of Police.

"The acting Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, DCP Ibrahim Mustapha Magu, DCP Ebere C. Onyeagoro, DCP Administration, Kaduna State Command and DCP Moshood O. Gbolarumi, DCP Maritime, Lagos, were promoted to the next rank of Commissioner of Police.

"Other promotions approved by the Commission include; one Assistant Commissioner of Police to Deputy Commissioner of Police, Nine Chief Superintendents of Police to assistant Commissioners of Police, one Deputy Superintendent of Police to Superintendent of Police, one assistant Superintendent of Police to Deputy Superintendent of Police and one Inspector to assistant Superintendent of Police.

"Chairman of the Commission, Dr. Okiro congratulated the newly promoted officers and urged them to rededicate themselves to the service of their fatherland. He assured them that the Commission will continue to pay attention to their basic entitlements which include regular promotions," he added.

“In e-government, Africa lags far behind the global average in Rwanda, the delivery time of an emergency blood supply with drones is reduced to 30 minutes from three hours by road. “Many Indices point to a low and decreasing level of open government practices in Africa. Over the past decade, the African average for the Accountability of Public Officials has deteriorated, with the pace of decline worsening over the last five years “Most African citizens are in favour of paying for public services.

Only seven African countries have a complete birth registration system,� it stated.

Commenting on the report, the Chairman of the Foundation, Mo Ibrahim, described public service as the pillar of governance.

He noted that without strong public services and committed public servants, there would be no efficient delivery of expected public goods and services, nor implementation of any commitment, however strongly voiced.

The report highlighted the demand addressed to African public services, pointing at growing expectations from citizens.

The report further assessed the current state of African public services and their key challenges, both from the job attractiveness side and from the delivery side.

It findings showed that on average, African public services displayed a continent-wide lack of capacity.

“They remain a relatively small employer, at a cost higher than in other regions, with large country disparities. In health, education and security, public supply is far from answering the demand. “Partly to answer the exponential demand, partly to substitute failing public supply, a growing range of non-state actors have become key providers of public goods and services, to an extent that may have sometimes prevented national governments from owning public policies. “Public employees in Africa are on average better educated than in the private sector and are also twice older on average than the population they serve. “Job motivation is mainly about job security rather than wages, mobility within or outside public service is almost non- existent, political dependence is strong, working equipment is scarce, corruption is among the highest at global level, “ghost public servants� populate many services, while too many of the best-trained choose to work abroad,�it added.

According to the report, building public services in post-conflict settings, often from scratch, represents a specific challenge.

But on a young continent whose ability to leap-frog has been often displayed, potential solutions and best practices exist: monetary and non-monetary incentives, internal and external mobility, capacity building and new technologies, it stated.

When society loses confidence in the ability of the state's security apparatus to provide adequate security for lives and property and ensure that justice is dispensed without fear or favour, the people resort to self-help and this often leads to lawlessness.

This forms the fulcrum of the TV drama series, Professor Johnbull, sponsored by Globacom, which this week, would dwell on the ills of resorting to self-help and the need for members of the public to repose confidence in the agencies saddled with the responsibility of maintaining law and order.

Titled Jungle Justice, the episode presents yet another lesson in decency and the need for people to verify facts before acting so that the cord which holds the society together will not snap. The episode pushes for an orderly society, where people do not, under any circumstance, take

the laws into their hands.

What is jungle justice? How blind is public anger against perceived criminals? Are all the victims of mob actions actually "guilty as charged" by the crowd? Should people resort to ‘necklacing’ at the slightest opportunity? Who raised the alarm which triggered the mob action in the episode? Why will Olaniyi (Yomi Fash-Lanso) form a deadly vigilance group? These are the questions that will be resolved as Jungle Justice is beamed on Sunday on DSTV Africa Magic Family and GOTV Channel 2 at 6.00 p.m., with repeat broadcast at 9.30 p.m. on Thursday.

The episode will also be aired on NTA Network, NTA International on DSTV channel 251 and NTA on StarTimes at 8.30 p.m. on Tuesday and Friday, while Anambra Broadcasting Service will air it at 8.30 p.m. on Wednesday and Saturday.

Standard Chartered Bank MD, Bola Adesola, Appointed asVice-Chair of UN Global Compact Abimbola Akosile The United Nations SecretaryGeneral, Mr. Antonio Guterres has appointed Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Standard Chartered Bank Nigeria, Ms. Bola Adesola to serve as Vice-Chair of the Board of the United Nations Global Compact, the world’s largest corporate sustainability initiative.

Adesola, according to a release issued yesterday at the UN headquarters in New York and made available by the United Nations Information Centre, Lagos, is to serve as Vice Chair alongside the Chief Executive Officer of Unilever, Mr. Paul Polman of the Netherlands.

According to the release, “The Secretary-General is pleased to confirm that Bola Adesola of Nigeria, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Standard Chartered Nigeria, and Paul Polman of the Netherlands, Chief Executive Officer of Unilever, will serve as the two Vice-Chairs of the Board of the United Nations Global Compact, the world’s largest corporate sustainability initiative. “Ms. Adesola and Mr. Polman succeed out-going United Nations Global Compact Board Vice-Chair, Sir Mark Moody-Stuart, former Chairman of Royal Dutch/Shell Group of Companies and of Anglo American plc. The Secretary-General extends his great appreciation to Sir Mark for serving in the position for the past ten years and shepherding the United Nations Global Compact into a new era. “Both Ms. Adesola and Mr. Polman have served on the Board of the United Nations Global Compact previously, and will bring to the position a wealth of experience in the private sector, in the corporate sustainability space and specifically with the United Nations Global Compact itself�, the release stated.

Adesola has served as CEO and Managing Director of Standard Chartered Bank Nigeria Ltd since 2011. She has over 25 years of banking experience, including at First Bank of Nigeria and at Citibank. She also holds degrees from Harvard Business School and Lagos Business School, as well as a law degree from the University of Buckingham.

Polman has served as Chief Executive Officer of Unilever since 2009.

Prior to joining Unilever, he worked at NestlĂŠ S.A., and at Proctor and Gamble, where he spent 26 years.

He holds degrees from the University of Groningen and from the University of Cincinnati. “As Chair of the Board of the United Nations Global Compact, the Secretary-General looks forward to working closely with Ms. Adesola and Mr. Polman, along with United Nations Global Compact Executive Director, Lise Kingo, as they lead the United Nations Global Compact, the entry point for business within the broader United Nations system�, the release added.

CHANGE OF NAME

I, formerly known and addressed as OVIH SHEDRACH, now wish to be known and addressed as OVIH SHADRACH OHWOEDE. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as TIMOTHY ADEKUNLE now wish to be known and addressed as ADEKUNLE TIMOTHY. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note.

I, formerly known and addressed DADA ADEDOYIN as OLUWABUKOLA, now wish to be known and addressed as ADETINKAN ADEDOYIN OLUWABUKOLA. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as REUBEN MARTIN SUNDAY, now wish to be known and addressed as REUBEN MATTHEW SUNDAY. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as MRS ADEDUNMOLA ADEOLA KOLAWOLE now wish to be known and addressed as Miss Adedunmola Adeola Olobayo. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as MISS ECHEKWUBELU ONYINYE CHIAMAKA now wish to be known and addressed as MRS ESEDO ONYINYECHIAMAKA. All former documents remain valid.

The general public should please take note

I, formerly known and addressed as MISS FAITH EROWO OREDE. now wish to be known and addressed as MRS FAITH EROWO BABALOLA. All former documents remain valid.

The general public should please take note.

Saturday, April 21, 2018

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MISSILE Senator Gemade on Killings By Herdsmen “It is a shame that a sitting government could watch criminality go to the level that we have seen it today. Rather than rising and taking very decisive steps against it, we embark on denials and simply shield this evil by just explaining with flimsy excuses that these are communal clashes.”

–Senator Barnabas Gemade condemning unrestrained killings by Fulani herdsmen.

PENDULUM DELE MOMODU

dele.momodu@thisdaylive.com

President Buhari as a Public Relations Nightmare

F

ellow Nigerians, these are not the best of times for our dear President, Muhammadu Buhari. And it must be much worse for his media handlers.

Let me state matter-of-factly, from the onset, that President Buhari gets into regular trouble, indeed, too frequently, because he has invested heavily in a media team but lacks a public relations team. In Nigeria, most leaders fail to realise that being a good journalist, Editor, Publisher, Broadcaster, and what have you, does not make you a good or excellent public relations guru.

The other problem is I’m not sure the President is surrounded by those bold or brave enough to look him straight in the eye to tell him the honest truth. His earlier persona as a military ruler has also not helped matters in this respect. The fear of a military dictator is the beginning of wisdom, according to the view of an average Nigerian.

I must confess that I have been a latter-day convert and ardent fan of President Buhari. I signed up only after he decided to contest the 2015 elections for a record fourth time. I took the view that he was the best man for the job particularly because the Jonathan administration was fumbling and not prone to correction. I played my part in articulating the President’s attraction for me and those like me who felt that he was what Nigeria required at the time, a stop-gap in the mould of Mandela option. Without being immodest I can say that I successfully played my own part in the eventual victory of APC and the Buhari/Osinbajo ticket.

I first had a significant interaction with Buhari in 2011, when he asked Dr Lanre Tejuoso to bring me to his house in Abuja and we got on quite well. The camaraderie was palpable. And he disarmed me with his candour and passion. Prior to the 2015 election, I met Buhari in London at a flat in Mayfair, the day he spoke at Chatham House. He sprang to his feet as soon as I walked in and appeared happy to see me. We chatted briefly and took several pictures with Rotimi Amaechi, Hadi Sirika, Festus Keyamo, Hadiza Bala Usman and others. He was as effervescent and excited as everyone else at the prospect of becoming Nigeria’s new leader. His optimism for the country was infectious and I believed I had made a wise decision in deciding to follow and publicly support him.

I vividly recollect my meeting with President Buhari shortly after he assumed office in 2015.

This was at his behest. I found him very relaxed and jocular. We again got on well. Contrary to the public misconception and rumours about his taciturnity, he was witty, chatty and freely spoke his mind. He certainly did not appear dictatorial or aloof. Many of those who saw our interaction on television, as well as the pictures in different media, could not believe how freely we had bonded. I was surprised when a few Ministers asked what I did to make him feel so comfortable with me.

Even before I went in to see him, a few people had pleaded with me to help talk to him frankly.

I started getting the feeling that they considered me a suicide bomber who should carry away the sins of the earth. But the Buhari I met was not as difficult as he was made out to be. Everyone says when you hold meetings with him, it is a monologue, you are forced to do the talking while he does the listening. And that you never know whether he has heard you or what is on his mind. That was not the Buhari I met. He

Buhari was receptive and we exchanged ideas on the various issues of national and social interest that we talked about.

It is one of those inexplicable ironies that the same man who generated and galvanised so much love and passionate affection has lost and squandered most of that uncommon goodwill.

No one since the June 12, 1993, election, which was clearly and undoubtedly won by Chief MKO Abiola, has had such monumental, widely acclaimed and fair victory as President Buhari did in 2015. The youths of Nigeria were so much in love with him that they studiously ignored all his shortcomings and embraced him warts and all. The same youths are so angry today that I’m almost certain it would take some magic and miracle to get them to reconnect with our President like they did in 2015. There was nothing anyone could have said negatively to Buhari that they would have believed at that time. As a matter of fact, the youths said if Buhari presented NEPA bills as his school certificate result, they would accept it as genuine and further, that they were ready to march for Buhari all the way to Aso Rock.

So what went wrong? It is difficult to point at just one thing. It has been an amalgamation of conflicting issues and signals. The first was the attitude exhibited early in the life of this government that there was no real urgency and Buhari could take forever to handpick his team. The government lost the much-needed steam at that moment. And when the team was announced, it was déjà vu, because there was no difference and no big deal about their composition. Next was the witting or unwitting decision to start a war of attrition within his own party. I warned against this very quickly, but was dismissed as raising false alarm.

The APC became a house divided against itself.

Till this day they couldn’t hold regular meetings, they couldn’t make most of the necessary political appointments, they couldn’t select their board of trustees, they couldn’t even hold a convention to celebrate their victory not to talk of one to elect a new national executive and so on.

The Party’s highfalutin campaign promises soon became its albatross. The grandiloquent manifesto had been packaged to entice everyone like babies to lollipop but when the day of reckoning and delivery came, the chocolate boxes were suddenly and strangely empty. The schools feeding programs could not be achieved. The social security and welfare packages of arranging stipends for the

unemployed youths reached a cul-de-sac because government could not muster such resources. The President’s avowed fiscal policy target of parity between the Naira and the US Dollar – One Naira to one US Dollar proved to be a pipe dream that all discerning members of the public knew it would be. Indeed, it was much worse as the Naira slid to its lowest ever price against all currencies including African ones.

Buhari’s biggest attraction was the belief that he would easily wipe out, or at least significantly reduce, corruption in Nigeria. Those who believed the hype saw him as the only saint in Nigeria, but they forgot that sinners are probably the only ones capable of catapulting the saint to power. He tried his best in fighting the demons of Nigerian democracy, but they were much smarter than he ever bargained for. Pronto, the demons lined up in a long queue and migrated from PDP to APC where they are now comfortably ensconced and protected. Several corruption allegations and scandalous revelations involving members of the government or trusted aides and associates have either been ignored or swept under the carpet.

Thus it has become difficult for the ruling party to stand on any moral ground and sermonise or pontificate about fighting corruption. For every finger pointed at others, four fingers pointed back at them. The sacred cows, otherwise known as the cabal, and other members of the Politburo have remained mysteriously and monstrously powerful and untouchable.

The most nauseating to many people has been the blame game. This has irritated so many people, including former Head of State and President, Olusegun Obasanjo, who exploded and told Buhari frontally to deliver on his promises instead of his regular lamentations. He effectively said everyone knew the former government did abominably badly and that is why it was sacked. The blame game seemed to have backfired as Nigerians are bored sick of hearing the same jejune tales over and over, instead of government telling us the good news of their own kingdom, and juxtaposing their own achievements against that of former President Goodluck Jonathan. The government should have known that hungry people hardly listen attentively to preaching and sooner than later would request for the way forward. Using the past as an excuse can only work up to a point. The people want action and not this litany of woes.

The other problem, and this is grave, is that the President hardly talks to Nigerians in Nigeria.

And when he speaks, the words are so scanty and not much can be grabbed from them. Our President was critically ill and had to domicile himself abroad for several months cumulatively, yet no one knows what was wrong till this day. A public figure cannot afford to be too secretive in this manner. It only fuels curiosity and promotes ugly rumours. Significantly, the President who does not speak at home picks the wrong places and occasions to talk abroad and attracts controversies and public ridicule to himself and his country. The headlines have always been for the wrong reasons rather than the right mileage for the country and himself from the international media exposure and interest. On those trips, we’ve expanded the lexicon with such phrases as “the other room”; or as the latest gaffe goes “young people who want to sit and want to be paid free money and free health…”

I have been inundated by calls since President Buhari made his latest remarks in London in answer to a question at the end of his keynote address at the Commonwealth Business Forum.

To say most of the comments have been quite bad is an understatement. To properly understand I listened to the video and transcribed it myself, although I also had access to my dear brother, the Special Adviser Media to the President, Femi Adesina’s transcription. Below is my humble effort: “We have ah, a very young population. Our population is estimated conservatively to be ah, a hundred and eighty million. Ah, this is a conservative one. More than 60 per cent of the population is below the age of (sic) thirty. Ah, a lot of them haven’t been to school. They are claiming ah, ah, you know, that Nigeria has been an oil producing country, therefore ah, they should sit and do nothing and get housing, healthcare, ah, education free.

The furore and fury the latest controversy has generated on social media is almost unprecedented.

It is like touching the tiger by the tail. A seemingly harmless statement credited to President Buhari has ignited a huge conflagration everywhere. I felt bad for Femi Adesina as he struggled to defend, explain and transliterate what the President said or meant to say to an unwilling and unyielding audience. It has become a very heavy cross he must carry every time his boss speaks these days and it cannot be easy. It is true the President did not use the word lazy or say that all Nigerian youths sit at home and do nothing. It is also not true that he used the word half-educated.

However, what he said about the youths suggests something worse, although that is clearly not what was meant. “a lot of them did not go to school”, translates to a lot of them are uneducated which is even worse than half-educated. One may pardon the President because empirically this is true of the educationally disadvantaged States with which he is very familiar, but it is blatantly false about the south where education is much advanced. Similarly, to say somebody sits down and does nothing and wants to claim freebies is to say that person is irresponsible. In my view, this is much worse than laziness. Factor in the fact that free health, free education and affordable housing for all, were the campaign slogans of the APC and no one begged for it.

So you can see a public relations disaster right before your very eyes.

President Buhari indeed has become a public relations nightmare. He is seriously in need of experts and coaches in public speaking and etiquette, especially now that he has decided to challenge fate by aspiring for a second term in office. If the plan is to throw in combatants, trolls and internet warriors to bully his opponents into submission, it would not fly. He needs all the gentility in the world to cajole, coax and convince Nigerians that he means well; that he knows what he is doing; that he is tackling the difficult challenges; that he is not a religious bigot or ethnic supremacist or jingoist; that he would reduce the menace of, if not wipe out, Boko Haram; that he would destroy the rampaging invaders called herdsmen wherever they are coming from; that he would revamp and improve the economy; that he would create opportunities for all Nigerians including jobs for our restive youths; and above all that he will keep all the brightest people closer to him …

I pray it is not too late…

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