TUESDAY 28TH APRIL 2020

Report: Banks to Tap Local Debt Market to Fight Headwinds Moody’s changes outlook to negative Obinna Chima Some Nigerian banks are considering issuing nairadenominated bonds in the short-to-medium term to

beef up their capital and strengthen their defence against the impact of the COVID-19 disruptions and oil price shock, analysts at Agusto & Co have stated.

The Head of Financial Institutions Ratings, Agusto & Co, Mr. Ayokunle Olubunmi, in a telephone interview, hinted THISDAY about the planned bond issuance while

shedding more light on the pan-African rating agency’s latest report: “COVID-19 Pandemic - Nigerian Banks in 2020,” obtained yesterday.

Moody’s Investors Service

also yesterday changed its outlook on Nigeria’s banking system to ‘negative’ from ‘stable,’ due to the anticipated impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and oil price drop.

The CBN Governor, Mr. Godwin Emefiele, in his five-year economic blueprint that was unveiled last year, Continued on page 8

PPPRA: Petrol Price to Reflect International Oil Prices... Page 5 Tuesday 28 April, 2020 Vol 25. No 9150. Price: N250

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Buhari Shuts Kano for Two Weeks, Eases Restrictions on Lagos, Others Monday Imposes nationwide curfew Bans non-essential inter-state travels, social and religious gatherings Makes use of face masks compulsory Says governors can adopt measures to suit states COVID-19 cases climb to 1,337 with 255 discharged, 40 deaths Omololu Ogunmade, Chuks Okocha, Olawale Ajimotokan, Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja, and Martins Ifijeh, Sunday Ehigiator in Lagos President Muhammadu Buhari yesterday made a choice between the devil and the deep blue sea, relaxing from Monday the lockdown of the Federal Capital Territory

(FCT), Lagos and Ogun States even as he shut for two weeks, the emerging epicentre of COVID-19 pandemic, Kano State.

Acknowledging the escalation of the spread of the virus despite the lockdown he imposed on the two worsthit states and the FCT since March 30, the president, in Continued on page 8

Soludo Urges Strategic Repositioning of Economy for Post-pandemic Growth Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja and Funmi Ogundare in Lagos A member of the Presidential Economic Advisory Council and former Governor of Central Bank of Nigeria

(CBN), Professor Charles Soludo, yesterday called for a fundamental strategy to redesign the country for an effective transition to a viable economy after the COVID-19 Continued on page 8

STRATEGISING FOR POST-COVID-19 ECONOMY...

Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Chief Niyi Adebayo (left); and Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, during a meeting of Post-COVID-19 Economic Sustainability Planning Committee at the Presidential Villa, Abuja...yesterday

No Plans to Shift Edo, Ondo Gov Polls, INEC Insists... Page 6

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NEWS

Group News Editor Ejiofor Alike Email Ejiofor.Alike@thisdaylive.com, 08066066268

PPPRA: Petrol Price to Reflect International Oil Prices NNPC negotiates output cuts with oil firms Ejiofor Alike in Lagos and Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja with agency reports The Petroleum Products Pricing Regulatory Agency (PPPRA) yesterday said henceforth the pump price of petrol will continue to rise or fall with the international price of crude oil.

This is coming as the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) has commenced negotiations with local companies and international majors about how to cut output in line with a global deal on production curbs.

Executive Secretary of the PPPRA, Mr. Abdulkadir Saidu,

in a note he said was meant to clarify some questions surrounding the recent fall in the price of the product in filling stations, said anytime the price of crude oil rises in the international market, Nigerians will also pay more for petrol.

He added that going forward, the pricing of petrol will reflect market fundamentals, but said that PPPRA will continue to monitor price trends and advise monthly guiding price for all petroleum products, based on prevailing market realities and other pricing fundamentals.

Saidu emphasised that the plunge in global crude prices made it increasingly difficult for the government to finance

FG: Lecturers to Submit BVN to Avoid Double Payment Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja University lecturers, whose February and March salaries were withheld, were asked to submit their bank verification numbers (BVNs) to avoid double payment, a top federal government official told THISDAY yesterday.

The federal government had embargoed the salaries of Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) members in federal universities for refusing to register on the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS).

However, President Muhammadu Buhari, last week directed that the salaries be paid in view of the economic difficulties posed by the COVID-19 pandemic in the country.

But one of the conditions given for the payment is that the lecturers should submit their BVNs to their respective vice-chancellors for onward transmission to the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation.

ASUU had since reacted to the president’s gesture, saying it welcomed it as a way of creating room for dialogue but added that its members would not submit their BVNs to the Accountant General’s Office.

The union described the demand as a ploy to enroll them into IPPIS through the "back-door."

The top official with the Federal Ministry of Finance, however, explained to THISDAY yesterday that the government’s demand was a revalidation to know those lecturers who had earlier received their February and March salaries under the (IPPIS) and also those on sabbatical leave.

According to him, the government is also seeking ways to temporarily accommodate some of the peculiarities involved in the payment of salaries to the lecturers.

"ASUU's money has been released for payment of the withheld salaries with presidential approval. So, the only thing is for them to put up a temporary agreement with the Federal Ministry of Finance and the Accountant General's Office through their vice-chancellors and then the payment will be effected.

"The second condition is for the ASUU members to go and revalidate their records with BVN, so as to assist us in knowing those who have received their pay through the IPPIS platform and those who

are not around because they are on sabbatical or something else. This will also enable those doing ad hoc teaching in other universities to present their request for that extra payment.

That is simply the basis for that revalidation," he said.

The official described ASUU's position that the revalidation is a ploy to bring back IPPIS through the back door as misinformation.

"They are playing politics with the wellbeing of their members and their families.

If you remember the president approved the payment of the withheld salaries on compassionate ground, to assist in the main members of their families,” he added.

He said: "There are some who collected February and March salaries and there are those who did not collect. In this category of those who did not collect, most of them are those who are not on IPPIS. Those on IPPIS have received their own salaries. Those who have not received salaries are in various categories; there are those who are not present in their universities and they are on strike.

“Those are the group we want to pay. Some are not in the universities physically; some are overseas or on sabbatical outside the country, while others are on leave of absence overseas.

"Also some of the lecturers are teaching in more than one university as adjuncts. So, we want to compartmentalize them stage by stage, which ASUU has been pointing as peculiarities.

Those peculiarities are now what we are taking up to pay temporarily. So, the various vice-chancellors will do the compartmentalisation and send it with a special request.

“ASUU does not want to understand this position of the government, they want the money to be brought in bulk so they would then be sharing as they like. Nobody will do that."

The official explained that the old platform under which ASUU and the universities received monies in bulk from the federal government for salaries is no longer operational.

"Nobody is being paid salaries on that platform, it is extinguished and dead," he added.

The official stated that ASUU members stopped teaching with effect from March 9, when they began an indefinite strike, adding that for the president to agree to pay them for the extra 21 days between March 9 and the end of March was out of "compassion and goodwill."

the 2020 national budget as it was predicated on a crude price of $57 per barrel.

He noted that the low crude oil prices presented the opportunity to address the lingering challenges associated with the under/over-recovery regime and free up vital funds required to develop in other key sectors of the economy.

According to the PPPRA, the new initiative is expected to stimulate private investment and growth in the downstream sector and encourage the resumption of products importation by oil marketing companies, translating to more job creation as many depots and facilities that were dormant would now become active.

Saidu added: “What we have in place is a market reflective pricing system. Petroleum products prices will be adjusted in line with market realities and the result is what we see presently with prices on the downward slide.

“Accordingly, the price will naturally be adjusted to reflect a true picture of market fundamentals at any particular period (high or low).

Also, efforts are being put in place to develop alternative fuels to PMS by deepening the utilisation of LPG/CNG as autogas in Nigeria.

“This will come into fruition in the medium term and will help to cushion the effect in case of situation of high oil price”.

He maintained that the liberalised pricing regime will ensure a competitive and a more efficient market that guarantees reasonable returns to operators and ensure consumers pay appropriate prices in line with market reality and ensure they are not over-charged.

The ES said that the new regime will open up the oil and gas sector for more private players and investments in refineries, storage facilities, and transportation.

“At the end of the day we expect to see more private players operating in the industry. The liberalisation of the entire industry will make it possible for private investors to recoup their investments, leading to a more vibrant downstream sector” he said.

NNPC Negotiates Output Cuts with Oil Firms Meanwhile, NNPC has delayed publishing its future oil export plans as it negotiates with local companies and international majors about how to cut output in line with a global deal on production curbs, trading sources said.

Official selling prices (OSPs) for Nigerian oil, usually issued in the second or third week of each month had still not been issued as at press time yesterday.

The global supply deal, agreed by the OPEC+ group of oil producers, is due to go into effect on May 1.

Traders expect the May OSPs to fall below April’s record lows published by the NNPC. Traders of Nigerian oil told Reuters that Nigeria, an OPEC member, had revised its May programmes for oil cargoes and would also have to lower its output in June, based on the OPEC+ deal.

“May cargoes will get delayed and new June cargoes may be relatively few,” one of the sources said.

OPEC, Russia and other allied producers agreed to cut their combined output by 9.7 million barrels per day, or each reducing its production by more than 20 per cent. The first round of cuts will run in May and June. Reductions will be less severe after that.

“The NNPC is working out the cuts for the international oil companies. That’s why the programme for June and OSP for May is yet to come out,” another trading source said.

NNPC is negotiating the cuts with companies working in the country, including oil majors Shell, ExxonMobil, Total, and Chevron.

A source at an oil major operating in Nigeria said the discussions were ongoing, noting that agreement on precise output allocations for each company remained a hurdle.

“This hasn’t been done before”, the source added.

Two industry sources said talks ranged from a blanket percentage output cut for all players to focusing the output curbs more on offshore fields that are not run by a joint venture with NNPC.

TESTING FOR COVID-19...

National Leader, All Progressives Congress, Senator Bola Tinubu, during the collection of his sample for the COVID-19 test…recently

Secondus Cautions Buhari against Measures that Could Worsen Economy Chuks Okocha in Abuja The National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Prince Uche Secondus, has cautioned President Muhammadu Buhari against adopting policies that could worsen the economy in the ongoing fight against COVID-19.

In an exclusive interview with THISDAY, the chairman of the main opposition party urged the president to consider the health of the economy and the plight of the vulnerable in his decisions.

Secondus added that since the actions of the federal government is to contain the spread of the pandemic, it is necessary to do so with the "milk of human kindness by not preventing one virus and creating another deadlier one that is hunger."

"The Nigerian economy apart from on oil, is majorly dependent on the entrepreneurial skills of the artisans, the traders, the bricklayers, the market men and women and other small and medium scale business people.

"The continued stay at home of these set of people does not help the already imperiled economy, where our major foreign income earning measure has fallen to the worst state in the last 20 years. We should not use policies that could worsen the economy. Crime and criminality is on the rise now in the country," he stated.

Secondus asked the federal government to also take into cognisance the plight of pensioners and the vulnerable in the country.

He said: “There are those that have served this country meritoriously. What palliative

measures have been put in place for this set of people?

Has the distribution of the palliatives taken care of these set of people? What of the artisans that depend on their daily sales to feed themselves and their families?

"Before this virus, these set of people depended on the proceeds of their daily sales to feed their families. Now that there is restricted movement, what do we expect them to use and feed their families?”

Secondus urged the federal government to heed the advice of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and ensure a partial restriction of movement and allow people to engage in their daily chores.

"The economy is gradually being heated and this is dangerous for all. This is the time to be wise. Everything is

not jackboot politics," he added.

According to him, restriction of movement has contributed to an increase in the level of crimes everywhere, adding that bottled anger before the pandemic should not be allowed to cause more damage to the economy.

He called for the inclusion of the state governments in the distribution of palliatives, saying that "the states are a tier of government and therefore should be considered in distributing the palliative by ensuring that everyone gets a piece of the action."

Secondus said there should be a decentralised method of testing for the pandemic by giving more facilities to the states rather than concentrating the testing on the federal government and its agencies like the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC).

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No Plans to Shift Edo, Ondo Gov Polls, INEC Insists

Chuks Okocha in Abuja

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) yesterday reaffirmed its plans to go ahead with the governorship elections in Edo and Ondo States as scheduled, notwithstanding the disruptions caused by COVID-19 pandemic.

INEC National Commissioner in charge of Voters’ Education and Information, Mr. Festus Okoye, told THISDAY in Abuja that the commission had not met to discuss a possible shift in the dates slated for the elections.

INEC had earlier fixed September 19, 2020 for the governorship election in Edo State while that of Ondo State was fixed for October 10, 2020.

He said before releasing the dates for the Edo and Ondo governorship elections adequate

provisions were made, stressing that the commission had not met to consider any new dates.

In a statement he later issued yesterday, Okoye also reiterated the position of INEC. He said: "The commission wishes to inform the general public that no decision has been taken to postpone the Edo and Ondo governorship elections or adjust the timetable and schedule of activities for the said elections scheduled for September 19 and October 10, 2020 respectively.

"It will be recalled that the commission on February 6, 2020 released the timetable and schedule of activities for the two elections. Since then, the timetable has not been adjusted. While we are mindful of the negative impact of the Coronavirus disease, we are also monitoring the various

efforts by the federal and state governments’ health authorities and other stakeholders to contain the spread of and eliminate COVlD-l9.

"If and when the need arises to adjust the timetable for the elections, same will be conveyed to the public in the usual manner. In the meantime, we will continue to study the situation carefully and cooperate with other stakeholders in the battle against COVID-19."

In the timetable for the election activities for Edo governorship

election, INEC stated that the conduct of primary election and resolution of disputes arising from primaries would be between 2nd of June to 27th of June while campaign would begin on June 21.

Also, INEC fixed September 17, for the end of campaign, stating that "Section 99(1) of the Electoral Act 2010 (as amended) provides 90 days for the commencement of campaigns by political parties and end of same 24 hours before polling day."

For Ondo State, the commission fixed July 2 to 25 for the conduct of primary election and resolution of disputes arising from primaries "to enable political parties democratically nominate candidates for the election as required by Section 87 of the Electoral Act 2010."

The electoral commission fixed October 8, for the end of the campaign while the election would be on October 10.

There is apprehension that the outbreak of COVID-19

may affect the conduct of the governorship election in the two states.

Also, the Chief Press Secretary to INEC Chairman, Mr. Rotimi Oyekanmi, has described insinuation that the electoral body will change the dates as speculative and incorrect, adding it gives a totally wrong impression.

Oyekanmi said the decision to change the dates already announced for the elections was a serious matter, which only the commission could take.

Okunland Launches Relief Response Initiative on COVID-19 Jemibewon, Ojo, Jamodu, Lambo, others named in elders’ council Ibrahim Oyewale in Lokoja Prominent indigenes of Okunland in Kogi West Senatorial District have launched an initiative aimed at providing relief for inhabitants of the area from the ravages of the coronavirus pandemic.

Known as the Okun People Covid-19 Relief Response Initiative, the move is meant to tackle the social and health challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic to the Yoruba speaking people of the state.

Among the prominent Okun (Yoruba) people named in the initiative’s Elders Advisory Council are the former military governor of the old Oyo State and Minister of Police Affairs, Maj-Gen. David Jemibewon (rtd.); former Minister of Industries and Chairman, Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Chief Kola Jamodu; former Minister of Health, Prof. Eyitayo Lambo; former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Chief Bayo Ojo (SAN); and one-time Acting Governor of Kogi State, Chief Clarence Olafemi.

A press release issued yesterday by a former member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Duro Meseko, on behalf of the Media Committee, also announced the setting up of a 21-member steering committee as well as various sub-committees including contact/network, fundraising, and materials collection, procurement, media, relief materials distribution and funds/materials audit committees, among others.

According to the statement, the steering committee headed by former deputy chief of staff in the presidency, Prince Olusola Akanmode, has as members former deputy governor of Kogi State, Mr. Yomi Awoniyi; Senator Smart Adeyemi; Senator Dino Melaye; Speaker of the Kogi State House of Assembly, Hon. Mathew Kolawole; National President of

Okun Development Association (ODA), Mr. Femi Mokikan, among others as members while Public Policy Analyst, Dr. Ronke Bello, will serve as the Secretary of the committee and head of the secretariat.

The steering committee is expected to drive the process for raising funds to buy drugs and essential commodities to be distributed to the people of the area as a way of complementing the efforts of the federal and Kogi State governments to contain the spread of the dreaded virus in the state and the country as a whole, as well as cushion the effects of the stay-at-home order, subsisting in the state.

Eminent Okun personalities drawn from all walks of life and listed in the various sub-committees include business moguls Chief Jide Omokore, Chief Tunde Ayeni, Chief Funsho Owoyemi and Chief Sam Owa; former Director, Department of Petroleum Resources, Mr. Osten Olorunsola; DirectorGeneral, Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC), Mr. Babatunde Irukera; founder, Phase 3 Telecoms, Mr. Stanley Jegede; Managing Director, THISDAY Newspapers, Mr. Eniola Bello; former Managing Director, Trust Newspapers, Mr. Isiaq Ajibola; and Managing Director, Cable News, Mr. Simon Kolawole.

The conveners are Senator Smart Adeyemi, who represents Kogi West Senatorial District, and two serving members of the House of Representatives, Hon. Leke Abejide and Hon. Tajudeen Yusuf, representing Yagba and Kabba/Bunu/ Ijumu federal constituencies respectively.

All former senators, House of Representatives members and current serving political office holders at the federal, state and local government levels, both elected and appointed, irrespective of political lineages, are expected to play one role or the other.

CHECKING THE BOOKS...

L-R: Managing Director, First Bank of Nigeria, Dr. Adesola Adeduntan; Group Managing Director, FBN Holdings Plc, Mr. U.K. Eke; and Company Secretary, Mr. Oluseye Kosoko, at the 8th Annual General Meeting of the group in Lagos...yesterday

Ganduje: FG Not Supporting Kano to Combat COVID-19 Orders verbal autopsy into strange deaths Kwankwaso writes Buhari, seeks intervention

Ibrahim Shuaibu in Kano and Peter Uzoho in Lagos

Kano State Governor, Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, yesterday accused the federal government of abandoning the state's fight against COVID-19.

He also directed the state Ministry of Health to carry out "verbal autopsy" of those who died due to various strange ailments over the weekend.

However, Ganduje's predecessor, Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso, has alerted President Muhammadu Buhari to the rising cases of mysterious deaths in the state, especially of senior citizens, seeking his intervention in taming the fatalities.

Ganduje, in an interview with the BBC Hausa Service yesterday, monitored in Kano, accused the presidential task force of not supporting and collaborating with the state task force in checking the spread of the disease.

“The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control COVID -19 testing laboratory at Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital has been shut for almost a week and we are not able to conduct the test and send it to Abuja for analysis.

“The presidential task force

is yet to do anything about this despite my complaints,” Ganduje stated.

However, THISDAY checks showed that contrary to the governor's statement, the federal government had collaborated with the state government to contain the pandemic.

Last Thursday, the National Coordinator, PTF, Dr. Sani Aliyu, said the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) and the World Health Organisation (WHO) had redeployed 17 persons to Kano State to support the fight against COVID-19 in the state.

According to him, additional laboratory equipment had also been sent to Kano while the molecular laboratory, where some workers had contracted the virus, was under fumigation and disinfection.

The governor also told the BBC that the state had applied to the federal government for N15 billion to fight the COVID-19 pandemic.

He has also directed the state Ministry of Health to carry out a verbal autopsy of those who lost their lives to various strange ailments over the weekend.

According to a statement signed by the Commissioner for Information, Malam Muhammad Garba, a combined team from

the state Ministry of Health and NCDC has been drafted to eight local government areas within the Kano Emirate Council to perform the autopsy.

Kwankwaso Writes Buhari, Seeks Intervention over Kano's Mysterious Deaths In his letter to the president, made public yesterday, Kwankwaso sought his intervention to save more people from dying.

He condemned the approach of the state government in the war against the pandemic, describing it as uncoordinated and unprofessional.

He added that the state at the moment did not have a COVID-19 committee.

The former governor in a four-page letter to the president anchored his letter on five key concerns and explained that the reason was to draw the president's attention to the incidents in the state as well as the nation and proffer suggestions on the way out.

He listed what he described as the “very scary rise in the number of people that are mysteriously dying in

Kano every day since the commencement of the fight against COVID-19 and the eventual lockdown of the state; the uncoordinated and the unprofessional manner in which the fight against the disease in Kano State is being waged and the attendant and unprecedented mistrust of the government by the governed; the near absence of cooperation and coordination between the state and the federal government on the COVID-19 response; the frightening reality of the tendency of the present health emergency to metamorphose into a security emergency” as some of his observations.

"Looking at the pattern elsewhere in the world where senior citizens with preexisting conditions were the main fatalities of the novel coronavirus, we are concerned that the inability to conduct tests in the state to determine the status of these senior citizens might be responsible for their deaths," he added.

Kwankwaso alleged that the state had no COVID-19 response committee, adding that the committee hitherto working as a COVID-19 committee was a "contraption of cronies that were both unqualified and incompetent."

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PAGE EIGHT SOLUDO URGES STRATEGIC REPOSITIONING OF ECONOMY FOR POST-PANDEMIC GROWTH pandemic.

Soludo, who was a guest on ARISE News Channel programme, The Morning Show, aired by the broadcast arm of THISDAY Newspapers, said the country could not afford to be left behind as a result of the pandemic.

According to him, value and opportunities should be created in the agriculture, technology and manufacturing sectors.

He said: "It all depends on what you do in response to the COVID-19. If people think of it as a binary or sequential thing that we first of all finish with the pandemic and then come back to deal with the economy, there will be no opportunity and it will not augur well by not taking

advantage of this opportunity.

"It all depends on what we strategically do today. China today has opportunistically positioned themselves, while the world is locking down; they were raking in hundreds of billions of dollars.

China ejected positively about $2.5 billion when everybody seems to be on recession. African countries should opportunistically position themselves and think differently. How do we tackle the pandemic given our local realities in such a manner that we can also position ourselves to the advantage of the rest of the world?

"For instance, it all depends on what we do. What will happen to remittances and tourism? With COVID-19, Africa will almost

lose a lot. All these will have consequences as well or how quickly we recover."

Asked if Africa is prepared for the digital economy in terms of capacity and infrastructure, he said: "One thing is sure; Africa must deal with the orchestrated conversation against the 5G technology. Technology is the language of the future; it is the future and Africa will continue to be a land of opportunities.

Investments are warranted and countries that have got the enabling environment and regulatory ease of doing business will obviously make it."

The former CBN governor described Africa as a land of opportunities if the right strategies are deployed.

"Our potentials are quite huge; there will be a creative distraction; there are huge opportunities for value addition; it's a virgin land as it were. I want to believe that over 400 companies make annual revenue in excess of one billion pounds in a year. The future is here whether it is in terms of solid minerals sector, agriculture, technology, and manufacturing, especially. It is the place to be with the right strategies," he added.

He urged African countries to pump money into their economies to cushion the effect of rising inflation.

Asked if African countries can afford lockdown, Soludo said: "How do you get people to eat because there is a link between nutrition and health?

With this, we need to fill the missing link because there are so many people that cannot afford to feed. It means there are many Africans who are in need - about 1.3 billion people.

And about two to five per cent can afford the lockdown. There are people who are malnourished with immune system down, there are thousands dying everyday.

"People are dying in thousands as a consequence of the lockdown.

There are people also dying of malaria, other diseases and infections in a year. What is going on as regards the other aspect of people dying of malnutrition, hunger and they have no money to treat the ailment?

"There is probably more thousands dying of these that

we don't have the statistics. In Africa, with the demographics nature of the Coronavirus, the people who are dying are the elderly and those with underlying illness. The WHO statistics is showing that over 80 per cent of the asymptomatic or the milder will get over it in anyway. So it is not so much about the number of infections.

"Globally, till today, there are more people dying from malaria in a year in Nigeria than Coronavirus has killed in the entire world. In the entire Africa, there have been 1,400 that have died of Coronavirus but everyday people die out of every other diseases and we haven't locked down because of that."

BUHARI SHUTS KANO FOR TWO WEEKS, EASES RESTRICTIONS ON LAGOS, OTHERS MONDAY a nationwide broadcast, said no nation could afford to close its economy for longer than necessary hence the need to ease the restriction.

He, therefore, directed the easing of the restriction of movement effective from Monday apparently to give room for the implementation of his fresh measures for the unlocking of the economy of the two states and the federal capital territory.

But Kano that had been home to strange deaths in the last few days came under the president’s total restriction order for two weeks in the first instance.

Buhari last night gave legal backing to his fresh directives aimed at curbing the spread of the deadly virus by signing the Proclamation Order on the General Management of COVID-19 in Lagos, Ogun, Kano and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

A statement by Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Mr. Femi Adesina, said the proclamation order would also be in force in other states in Nigeria as contained in the president’s national broadcast.

The statement added that the order was in the exercise of the powers conferred on the president "by Section 3 of the Quarantine Act, CAP Q2 Laws of the Federation 2004 and all powers enabling him in that behalf."

The president’s extension of the restriction by a week in the FCT, Lagos and Ogun States, and the lockdown of Kano State received justification from last night’s update by Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) which showed that the virus had increased its spread by 64

moving the tally since February 27 to 1,337 with 255 persons discharged and 40 dead.

Happily, no new state has recorded an index case, leaving the virus’ territory at 32 states.

The 64 new cases were reported from five states, including Lagos 34, FCT 15, Borno 11, Taraba two, and Gombe two.

Specifically, the president imposed a nationwide curfew, lasting from 8 pm to 6 am and banned non-essential inter-state travels, social and religious gatherings form Monday.

He said the FCT, Lagos and Ogun States would henceforth witness a phased lockdown subject to the implementation of certain measures, partial and controlled interstate movement of goods and services; and mandatory use of face masks or coverings in public.

He said: "In line with the recommendations of the Presidential Task Force on COVID-19, the various federal government committees that have reviewed socio-economic matters and the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, I have approved a phased and gradual easing of lockdown measures in FCT, Lagos and Ogun States effective from Monday, 4th May, 2020.

"However, this will be followed strictly with aggressive reinforcement of testing and contact tracing measures while allowing the restoration of some economic and business activities in certain sectors.”

He highlighted further measures: “There will be an overnight curfew from 8 pm to 6 am. This means all movements will be prohibited during this period except for essential services;

“There will be a ban on nonessential inter-state passenger travel until further notice; “Partial and controlled interstate movement of goods and services will be allowed for the movement of goods and services from producers to consumers; and "We will strictly ensure the mandatory use of face masks or coverings in public in addition to maintaining physical distancing and personal hygiene.

Furthermore, the restrictions on social and religious gatherings shall remain in place.

"State governments, corporate organisations and philanthropists are encouraged to support the production of cloth masks for citizens."

According to him, the lockdown in the FCT, Lagos, and Ogun States will remain in force until the new measures introduced to ease it take effect.

"The Presidential Task Force shall provide sector specific details to allow for preparations by governments, businesses and institutions. In respect to the above guidelines; state governors may choose to adapt and expand based on their unique circumstances provided they maintain alignment with the guidelines issued above.

"To support our businesses and traders, the monetary and fiscal authorities shall deploy all the necessary provisions needed for production to continue and thus, jobs restored,” he said.

Buhari excluded Kano State from these revised guidelines.

"With regards to Kano, I have directed the enforcement of a total lockdown for a period of two weeks effective immediately.

The federal government shall

deploy all the necessary human, material and technical resources to support the state in controlling and containing the pandemic and preventing the risk of further spread to neighbouring states," he stated.

The president commended health workers whom he said had been at the forefront of the battle against the virus, noting that some of them who had been infected would be duly supported by the government.

The president said the lockdown in the last month had had adverse effects on the economy with many businesses shut down.

According to him, no country could sustain the trend while awaiting vaccines for the treatment of the disease.

He explained that both the federal and state governments have been collaborating on how to handle the situation.

He said various reviews had been carried out in recent weeks, including how children would learn during the pandemic and how businesses would continue to run and livelihoods preserved.

Against this background, he said the goals of the governments were to come up with policies that would aid the functioning of the economy while the fight against the pandemic remained in force.

The president acknowledged the support of traditional rulers, the Christian Association of Nigeria, the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs and other prominent religious and community leaders, saying their cooperation and support have contributed to the successes recorded so far.

The president, who also

thanked the NGF and the PTF for what he described as their hard work, also saluted corporate organisations, philanthropists, the United Nations (UN) system, the European Union (EU), friendly nations, the media, and other partners for "taking up the responsibility for supporting our response."

The president thanked and commended Nigerians for their cooperation, sense of resilience and patriotism, which he said they had shown in the country's collective war "against the biggest health challenge of our generation."

PDP accuses Buhari of Offering No Solutions

saddening that the president did not address the demands

by Nigerians to engage competent hands, including indigenous researchers, equipment manufacturers, pharmaceutical, and medical as well as virology experts to infuse home grown therapeutic solutions in the overall effort.

"Our party invites Nigerians to observe how countries like Senegal had effectively mobilised their indigenous medical researchers and manufacturers to produce low-cost quick testing kits as well as ventilators while investing massively in the production of drugs for the treatment of COVID-19 patients," PDP said.

Reacting to the president's speech, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) said it was appalled that Buhari failed to offer decisive solutions to protect Nigerians from the deadly pandemic.

The party also expressed its disappointment that the president did not offer any post-lockdown stimulus to assist Nigerians in the private sector whose businesses have been crippled by the lockdown and are now faced with the burden of workers’ salaries and business refinancing.

The PDP in a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Mr. Kola Ologbondiyan, noted that the president did not offer a decisive solution regarding the production of drugs, testing kits and management of equipment to safeguard Nigerians, despite the huge resources at the disposal of his administration.

The party described as

FG Approves New Allowances, Insurance Cover for Health Workers

contract by 0.8 per cent in 2020 before expanding by 0.9 per cent in 2021, still below the rate of population growth.

The economy would remain sensitive to oil price movements because a large part of the country’s foreign-currency earnings are derived from oil exports, it added.

Moody’s also expect that credit growth in the country would slow down, mainly as a result of reduced corporate lending, adding that facility drawdowns by companies, whose cash flows have tightened would likely support short-term loan growth.

“In addition, the CBN as part of its response to the coronavirus pandemic, is making funds available via banks, helping to ease the slowdown in loan growth.

“Loan quality will deteriorate due to the challenging economic conditions. Weaker economic growth and the collapse of the oil price will lead to a deterioration in banks' loan performance.

“We expect problem loans to rise to between eight per cent and 10 per cent of total loans from six per cent in December 2019, with risk tilted to the downside should the depressed

oil price persist for more than a year. Loan restructuring and forbearance will lessen the impact of loan quality deterioration,” it added.

Meanwhile, the federal government has approved the payment of enhanced hazard allowance to all categories of health workers to serve as motivation to those of them in the frontline of the fight against COVID-19 pandemic.

Speaking yesterday at the media briefing by the Presidential Taskforce on COVID-19 in Abuja, the Minister of State for Health, Senator Olorunnimbe Mamora, said after diligent negotiations with stakeholders in the country's health sector, the federal government had arrived at a new hazard allowance and insurance cover for all public and non-public health workers.

Continued on page 10

REPORT: BANKS TO TAP LOCAL DEBT MARKET TO FIGHT HEADWINDS had disclosed plan to direct banks to recapitalise.

According to Olubunmi, Nigerian banks are expected to focus on recapitalisation to be able to withstand the looming headwinds.

He said: “We believe that the banks would focus on recapitalisation. It would be difficult for the banks to issue shares; so you would see that they won’t do rights issue.

“It is from banks’ retained earnings that they pay dividend.

So, we expect that banks would pay less dividend this year, so as to retain tier-1 capital.

“Now, talking about tier-II capital, it comprises medium term debt and revaluation reserves. Presently, there are a lot of tier-1, tier-11 and merchant banks that are in the process of issuing medium-term bonds to augment their capital position and prepare them for the impact of the pandemic.”

Olubunmi explained that the banks would be targeting the Pension Fund Administrators (PFAs) in their capital raising plan.

“We believe the PFAs are one of the major investors in bonds.

Remember that the PFAs have

cash coming in every month, but unfortunately, the Central Bank of Nigeria has since restricted them from its open market operations (OMO) market, which reduced their investment outlets. So, the PFAs would be the primary focus of the banks in raising debts,” he added.

However, Agusto & Co, in the report, noted that in recent times, the capital base of the banking industry has come under pressure owing to the International Financial Reporting Standard 9 adoption and other asset quality issues that have resulted in major write-offs.

Thus, tier II capital-raising activities heightened in the 2019 financial year up until the first quarter of 2020.

It stated that based on the asset quality challenges and the naira devaluation, there would be some strain on the industry’s capitalisation ratios in the near term. “However, this will be moderated by slower risk asset growth owing to the static business environment, increased profit retention, revaluation gains and the use of excess qualifying tier II capital to uphold capital adequacy ratios.

“We also believe that CBN’s

forbearances will cushion the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the industry’s capital base. The banking industry will need to recapitalise in the short to medium term.

“However, this will be challenging considering the current environment and weak investor sentiments. For banks that may be seeking to raise tier-1 capital, the weak valuations at this time – which has led to all the quoted banks trading at a discount to book values – may be a deterrent.

“Tier-II capital will be raised to support capital adequacy ratio up to the extent that it is permissible by the CBN and that market conditions are favourable. We believe that regulatory support will be required to implement rules aimed at protecting the banking industry’s profitability,” it stated.

Moody’s Changes Nigerian Banks' Rating Moody’s has changed its outlook on Nigeria’s banking system to ‘negative’ from ‘stable,’ due to the anticipated impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and oil price drop.

The rating agency explained in a report that in Nigeria, banks would face weakening loan quality and foreign-currency liquidity as low oil prices and the pandemic weigh on the economy.

These new challenges, it stated, would add to existing headwinds from slow economic growth and rising regulatory costs.

It noted that banks' exposure to the oil and gas industry was substantial, at around 27 per cent of total loans at the end of 2019, making the system susceptible to the oil price slump.

“The banking system is also highly dollarised, putting pressure on both assets and liabilities in the event of a naira devaluation.

“Nigeria's largest banks, however, will continue to benefit from high government support.

“We expect low oil prices and fallout from the coronavirus pandemic to place further pressure on the Nigerian economy, which was already falling short of growth rates required to increase per capita income,” it stated.

The ratings agency predicted that the country’s real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) would

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TUESDAY APRIL 28, 2020 ˾ T H I S D AY

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NEWS

Senate Concurs With House, Resumes Plenary Today Chuks Okocha and Deji Elumoye in Abuja The Senate will resume plenary session today by 10:00am.

This was confirmed by Senator Ajiobola Bashiru from Osun State, which

was posted on his verified twitter handle at 11.55p.m. last Sunday that the Senate would resume today.

Also, the Clerk of the Senate, Mr. Nelson Ayewo, in a letter to senators confirming the resumption, said: “This is to

inform Distinguished Senators of the Federal Republic of Nigeria that the Senate will resume plenary on April 28, 2020. “Distinguished Senators are by this notice expected to sit in plenary on April 28, 2020, at 10.00 a.m. prompt.

“Staff and senators’ aides are to work from home as they will be notified when needed in the office for any special assignment.”

This is after five weeks of break to enable the containment of the coronavirus

pandemic. The Senate and the House of Representatives went on break on March 24, 2020, before President Muhammadu Buhari announced the lockdown of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Lagos and Ogun States.

The House of Representatives had also announced that it would resume plenary today after about five weeks break occasioned by the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic.

BUHARI SHUTS KANO FOR TWO WEEKS, EASES RESTRICTIONS ON LAGOS, OTHERS MONDAY The minister said the meeting agreed to shelve the payment of the existing hazard allowance of N5,000 across the board to health workers and in its place, a special COVID-19 hazard and inducement allowance of 50 per cent of the consolidated basic salary to be paid to all health workers in all federal government teaching hospitals and federal medical centres and designated COVID-19 centres and primary healthcare centres. The payment will last for the first three months in the first instance.

In the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed by Mamora; the acting Chairman of the National Income, Salaries and Wages Commission, Mr. Ekpo Nta; the President of the Nigeria Medical Association (NMA), Dr. Francis Faduyile; President of the Pharmaceutical Council of Nigeria, Mr. Munir Elelu; National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives (NANNM) and Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU), it was resolved that 40 per cent of consolidated basic salary would be paid as special COVID-19 hazard and inducement allowance to healthcare workers at special non-public hospitals and clinics in the federal ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs) for the same three months’ period.

The federal government said 20 per cent of the consolidated basic salary would be paid as special risk allowance additionally on the special COVID-19 hazard and inducement allowance to all health workers directly managing the pandemic at the infectious disease hospitals, isolation, and treatment centres.

The last category, which constitutes those regarded as non-core medical professionals working in the health sector and operating at the designated hospitals or clinics, are to be paid 10 per cent of their consolidated basic salary also for a period of three months in the first instance.

The PTF on COVID-19 is also expected to consider a special allowance for the third category above at federal and state levels.

On the issue of insurance, the federal government said it had paid and activated the group life insurance for all categories of workers in the public service with 13 insurance companies.

The MoU, however, urged the federal government to ensure full payment for the cover to last for one year.

It urged the government to also fully reactivate the insurance policy for employees under the Employees Compensation Act (ECA) to cover for infirmities, critical illnesses, disability ‘ and death in the course of managing COVID-19 cases.

“These two insurance covers, which are for all federal public servants, especially the health workers for COVID-19 and post-COVID-19 period for the next one year is guaranteed by the MoU. “The PTF is requested to provide additional insurance cover aside the above listed for frontline health workers at Infectious Diseases Hospitals (IDH), isolation and treatment centres.

“In addition, the PTF is urged to dedicate all the life insurance donations to the volunteers and National Youth Service (NYSC) health workers.

“The review of retirement age for healthcare professionals and request for retirement of health workers to be moved up to 65 years, and that of medical doctors consultants to 70 years were discussed but the federal government accepted to consider it subsequently,” it said.

Mamora also said the federal government was concerned about the rising number of new infections, especially in Kano State.

According to the minister, two additional laboratories have been activated in the NCDC network - Usman Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital laboratory in Sokoto and Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital, Kaduna thus bringing the total number to 15 laboratories in the country.

He said the ministry was planning to set up emergency ambulance services to ease the problems witnessed by those seeking emergency help from NCDC officials.

Non-compliance with Lockdown Fuelling Cases, Says FG Mamora also attributed the high increase in cases to failure to comply with the lockdown order.

He said: “The rising number of cases is of concern to all but there is evidence of increasing in-country community transmission which to a large extent is as a result of non-compliance with lockdown orders and other non-medical interventions and other presumptive sources of exposure to infections.

“And also the unauthorised treatment of highly contagious COVID-19 patients in private homes or unaccredited health facilities with the risk of infecting their families, other patients, visitors, and health workers. These factors necessitated the active case finding strategy with the house to house and cluster testing, which has contributed to increased case detection.”

The NCDC also said it had restored the testing laboratory at the Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital and activated a second one.

The Director-General of the

NCDC, Dr. Chikwe Ihekweazu, while responding to a question about the situation in some states, which were yet to record any confirmed case of the pandemic said the affected states had not done enough tests to ascertain their real status.

He said the centre was not satisfied with the number of samples so far collected in states like Kogi, Nasarawa and other states with zero cases of the pandemic, warning that they risk a sudden explosion when more tests eventually take place.

According to the NCDC boss, the responsibility for collection of samples of suspected cases resides with the state health officials, adding that so far some of the states are not bringing patients samples for testing at the laboratories.

“There are only four states that have not recorded a case in Nigeria – Cross River, Kogi, Nasarawa, and Yobe State. We are looking at the number of samples collected from those states; we are not satisfied with the number of samples collected, so we need to test more.

“But to test more we need to collect more and that collection part is the responsibility of states and their public health teams. We want to really encourage every state in Nigeria; you can’t hide this, eventually, it will emerge. It is better we understand what is happening early than leave it till we start hearing stories of deaths,” he stated.

It said with the launch of ROSCHE machine, the country could test 50,000 COVID-19 samples.

FG Launches Machines with Capacity to Test 50,000 Samples Ihekweazu said the country could now test 50,000 samples of COVID-19 with the launch of the ROSCHE machine.

“The ROSCHE machine eliminates the need for an extraction kit, so we can actually do a lot more work and do it quickly. So if all the collections happen from the states, we can do up to 900 to 1,000 samples in a day. So really, there is a lot of capacity to test now.

The challenge is to bring in the samples quickly and get the equipment working.

Partners like the UN family, the US government and other partners have helped to get this working.

“What we have in the country now with the new Rosche machine we launched today (Monday) is about 50,000 capacities but the challenges to collect samples and we are coordinating all of them. Every new lab comes with logistics, travels, transportation by road challenges.

“What we have in the country at the moment is a

capacity to test about 50,000.

This is with the conventional RT-PCR and the new ROCHE equipment that we have launched today.

“The challenge now is all the other things that have to happen – the swabs to collect samples, the virus transport media, the people, etc., and we are coordinating all of this.

For every new lab we set up, it means we have to provide the lab with the logistics and everything it needs to collect samples, and we are looking to do these in 36 plus one states.

“There has been a lot of conversation about the situation in Kano but I want to remind everyone that in times of pandemic, the risk of spread is highest in those places where the population is dense. We are all aware of the population density in Kano State. The state has always been very high on our radar, so the high number of cases of infection in Kano is really not a surprise,” he said.

He explained that the NCDC has deployed 15 members of its rapid response team in Kano to help in combating the virus.

In an apparent response to criticisms over alleged slow response by NCDC officials to calls for emergency assistance by families of suspected cases, Ihekweazu said centre would not succumb to any undue pressure or insinuation.

Speaking on the successes recorded so far in Senegal, the NCDC boss said: “Our responsibility is to look into it. We know the company; it is a UK firm working with the lab in Senegal. We are in touch with them already through the Africa Centre for Disease Control and we will look into what the options are.

Jonathan Urges Stronger Economies, WHO to Support Africa Former President Goodluck Jonathan has called on stronger economies and international agencies like the World Health Organisation (WHO) to support the efforts of African nations towards procuring the necessary equipment and kits to enable them to conduct aggressive testing that would make the current lockdown imposed on cities more productive.

The former president also appealed to international financing and donor agencies as well as creditor nations to grant palliatives, including debt relief or placing a moratorium on repayments to help weaker nations cope with the economic difficulties brought upon them by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Jonathan stated this over the weekend while speaking as a panelist in an international web-based conference organised by the Universal Peace Federation (UPF)

with the theme ‘Governance Challenges in the Era of the Coronavirus Pandemic.’

The other panelists included Mr. Stephen Harper, former Canadian Prime Minister, Mr. Sang Hyun Yoon, South Korean parliamentarian, and Dr. Thomas Walsh, UPF Chairman.

Patient Successfully Delivers in LUTH A 40-year-old COVID-19 patient has successfully been delivered of a baby girl at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), Idi-Araba.

Announcing the feat yesterday, the Chief Medical Director, LUTH, Prof. Chris Bode, said both the patient and her 3.3kg baby were doing fine.

He said: “A team of LUTH doctors, anesthetists and nurses has just delivered a COVID-19 woman of a bouncing baby girl this afternoon. Both the 40-year old mother and the 3.3kg baby are doing fine.

“I express gratitude to these gallant men and women and all warriors making the nation proud in the face of this scourge.”

go to their places of work while residents were forced to stay in their houses.

But the police said they had dispersed a group of violent protesters at the Eleko Junction area of the community.

Witnesses said while calm had been restored to the community, it looked deserted as residents scampered to their various houses following the deployment of more police and military personnel in the area.

Mass Deportation of Almajiris for Safety Purpose, Says FG

Also yesterday, the Lagos State government discharged 15 more COVID-19 patients from its isolation centres, bringing to 138 the total number of successfully treated cases in the state.

Announcing this yesterday, the state Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, said the discharged patients comprised 11 females and four males.

He said: “The 15 discharged patients include one Indian national.

Eleven were discharged from the Infectious Disease Hospital in Yaba, while four were discharged from the Onikan Isolation Centre.”

The federal government has said that the mass deportation of Almajiris by Northern Governors’ Forum to their states of origins was not a breach of their constitutional rights.

The Chairman Presidential Task Force (PTF) on COVID-19, Mr. Boss Mustapha, said yesterday that the decision was taken by the governors to guarantee the safety and security of the Almajiris.

Mustapha, who is also, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation said being minors, the Almajiris were entitled to protection and security as enshrined Section 14 (1) of the Constitution, which empowers a governor to provide for the welfare and security and welfare of its citizens.

He warned that as minors, the Almajiris scenario could explode on the nation if not properly handled and they are allowed to spread COVID-19 by nature of their rough living.

He also echoed the fear of prominent northern leaders, who spoke extensively on the issue of the Almajiri that the nation was building an army that could overwhelm the people and nation in the future, if they were not catered for, educated in their faith and turned into productive citizens.

Protest in Lagos over COVID-19 Lockdown

FG Insists Customs Rice Fit for Consumption

The Eleko community of Ibeju Lekki area of Lagos State erupted in a violent protest yesterday over the continuous lockdown currently ongoing in the state.

The protest, which started in the early hours of yesterday, turned violent as the youth were said to have had a face-off with some security officials over the enforcement of the COVID-19 lockdown in the community.

THISDAY gathered that the youth mounted roadblocks with bonfires at different locations of the road which leads to several companies, including the Dangote Refinery in the area.

They accused the security officials enforcing the lockdown of being bias, saying expatriates were allowed to

Meanwhile the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development, Ms. Sadiya Farouq, has said the rice received from the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and distributed as a palliative to some South-west states were certified fit for consumption

by NAFDAC. Farouq said the rice was assessed and certified good

by NAFDAC before it was distributed.

“I spoke with the Ekiti State Governor (today) Monday and he told me the one he received was good. Let us be frank, even our house, if we keep rice, it is bound to have some colouration. But it does not mean it is not good for human consumption,” Farouq added.

Lagos Discharges 15 More Patients

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TUESDAY APRIL 28, 2020 ˾ T H I S D AY

COVID -19 UPDATE...

COVID -19 UPDATE...

Tinubu: My Aide Died of COVID -19 APC national leader, wife test negative for pandemic

Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja The national leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Senator Bola Tinubu, has revealed that his Chief Security Officer, late Lateef Raheem, died of COVID -19.

The death of Raheem occurred last Friday after a brief illness.

In a statement issued yesterday by his Media Office, Tinubu, however, revealed that he and his wife have tested negative for the virus.

According to him, “Following the death of our well-respected and beloved Chief Security Officer, Alhaji Lateef Raheem, Nigeria Centre for Diseases Control (NCDC) medics took the wise precaution of taking samples from his body for testing to actually determine the cause of his death. Today, the test results are back. The samples tested positive for COVID-19.”

The former governor of Lagos State noted that COVID-19 is a real and present threat, adding that those who discount it or call it a fabrication do a grave

and dangerous disservice to the public well-being.

He noted that those who stigmatise people who might have been stricken by the virus are also doing a disservice by casting blame on the innocent and discouraging people from taking the virus test, stressing that the health menace cannot be defeated by ignorance or shaming one another.

Tinubu media office stated that: “As a precautionary measure taken soon after the death of Raheem, Tinubu, his wife, Senator Oluremi, and all their aides took the COVID-19 test on April 25. The results of the tests were returned this morning (yesterday). The test results for both Tinubu and his wife were negative.

“The result of one of the aides was positive. The rest of other staff members were negative. The staff member who contracted it has been isolated in accordance with NCDC guidelines. Further contact tracing and COVID-19 tests are being conducted by the NCDC with regard to the relatives and possible contacts of that staff

member who contracted it.”

The APC chieftain added that the country cannot overcome this challenge by acting like it does not exist or by trying

to conceal that someone may have it, saying the culture of denial is counterproductive and would do a great harm in the current situation.

Tinubu stressed that openness and transparency must be observed “if we are to defeat this disease. There is no house immune to its

entry. Contracting the virus should not bring social or moral stigma on anyone more than contracting malaria or a common cold.”

AGRICULTURE TO THE RESCUE…

L-R: Oyo State Governor, Mr. Seyi Makinde; Executive Adviser to the governor on Agric Business, Dr. Debo Akande; Oyo State Commissioner for Agriculture, Mr. Muyiwa Ojekunle; and Chairman, Kartlos Farms Limited, Mr. Osinowo Owolabi, during the governor’s inspection of Akufo Farm Settlement, Eruwa road, Ibadan...yesterday

Atiku’s Son Recovers Raymond Dokpesi Jnr Tests Positive for Pandemic from Pandemic, Discharged after 40 Days A son of former Vice President Atiku Abubabakr, Mohammed has recovered from COVID-19 and discharged after testing negative twice.

His father, in a brief appreciation message, said: “With gratitude to God, we are excited, It couldn’t have come at a better time of the Ramadan.

“I thank you all for your prayers, even as we remain indebted to the medical personnel who have stayed tireless in their efforts”.

Announcing his recovery in a statement issued yesterday, Mohammed said: “I, Mohammed Atiku Abubakar, wish to inform Nigerians that I have finally been cleared and discharged after 40 days of coronavirus (COVID-19) treatment.

“My discharge could not have come at a better time than in

the Ramadan, a season marked by sacrifice and supplication to the Almighty Allah.

“I thank the Almighty Allah for my recovery from the dreaded infection and also wish to express my sincerest and deepest appreciation to Nigerians for their prayers and goodwill while I was being treated.

“In the course of life, we have no idea of what will happen to us because only the Almighty God knows our future. When the coronavirus first broke out in far away China, I had no idea that I might be one of those to be infected. This is one of the everlasting lessons I can’t forget for the rest of my life. Indeed, I have been humbled by this experience.

Words cannot sufficiently convey the depth of my joy over my recovery and discharge,” he said.

Ex-Queen’s College President, Ajose Dies at 68 The immediate past president of Queen’s College Old Girls’ Association (QCOGA), Frances Ajose, has passed on.

A statement by the association’s General Secretary, Ayodele Onakoya, said the late professor of medicine died on April 26 at the age of 68.

A member of the QCOG Class of 1968, Ajose was a very passionate and active QCOG who lent her time and wealth of experience to the association, Queen’s College, individual members and the communities she served.The association recalled that as president, Ajose played a key role in bringing the 2017 water crisis at the school under control, “even spending nights at the hospital with the children”.

She was a Consultant Physician Dermatologist, Professor of Medicine, Lagos State University College of

Medicine and Lagos State University Teaching Hospital.

The late unionist was also the president of the Lagos State Chapter of the Medical Women’s Association of Nigeria, until her death.

“Funeral arrangements will be announced by the family,” the statement said.

Ajose

Chairman of DAAR Communications Plc, Mr. Raymond Dokpesi has tested positive for COVID-19.

The Cable reported that he disclosed this in a short message to members of staff yesterday.

Dokpesi was said to have

been self-isolating in the past week, before he developed malaria symptoms and started coughing.

He reportedly contacted the Nigerian Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) for a COVID-19 test which came back positive.

The chairman, who is said not to have a recent travel history, advised those who have interacted with him lately to get tested.

“I got a call this morning confirming the result is COVID-19 positive. I am

leaving now to the Gwagwalada Isolation Centre for treatment and hope to be back in two weeks. Many of you may have interacted with me during our various meetings and I would advise you to get tested as soon as possible,” the message read.

El-Rufai Cuts Senior Appointees’ Salary by 50% to Fund Palliatives Kaduna State Governor, Malam Nasir El-Rufai, has ordered all senior appointees and top civil servants in the state to “donate 50 per cent of their salaries” to fund the next phase of the provision of relief items to vulnerable people in the state.

In a statement issued by the media aide to the governor, Mr. Muyiwa Adekeye, those concerned by the governor’s order on salary cut include commissioners, permanent secretaries, special advisers, and heads of agencies.

According to the statement,

El-Rufai directed that each of the concerned persons should donate N500,000 in April 2020 while the 50 per cent salary donations would be effective in the subsequent months till the lockdown is lifted in the state.

“The extension of the quarantine conditions imposes an obligation to make provision for the low income, r and vulnerable persons that would be adversely affected, as they may be unable to earn any income while the lockdown persists.

“The state government

has done the first phase of distribution of food across 59 community clusters in nine local government areas. The next phase will be conducted across the 23 local government areas.

“To fund the provision of these support packages, the less than 100, 000 persons who work for the Kaduna State Government as political appointees and public servants must contribute financially towards enabling the almost 10 million persons living in the state to survive and thrive in this emergency period.

“Therefore, the Kaduna State Government has directed all its senior appointees, including Commissioners, Permanent Secretaries, Special Advisers and Heads of Agencies to each donate N500,000 in April 2020.

In subsequent months, they will donate 50% of their salaries until the quarantine ends,” the statement read in part.

According to the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control, the state recorded five more COVID-19 cases on Sunday, bringing the total confirmed cases in the state to 15.

Abba Kyari’s Daughter Urges Critics to Let Her Father Rest in Peace Aisha, one of the children of the late Chief of Staff of President Muhammadu Buhari, Malam Abba Kyari, has urged critics to let her father rest in peace.

She stated this on her Instagram status update

yesterday.

Aisha, who wrote with the user name, crackeddiamond, also berated some people whom she alleged had been asking about her father’s whereabouts.

“My daddy, Abba Kyari is gone. Evil ones still won’t shut up. You all claimed he was the root of your problems when he was alive, now he is gone, surely all your problems died with him. Allow us that

love him grieve and mourn in peace. “And Dear Lola Omotayo and co that were so curious about his whereabouts, I hope now that you know exactly where he is, you’re sleeping better at night.”

Enforce Law on Social Distancing, Group Tells FG Martins Ifijeh The Civil Society Alliance Against COVID-19 (CSAACOVID-19) has called on the federal government to enforce the law on social distancing, ramp up contact tracing and motivate health workers if it is serious about ending COVID-19 pandemic in Nigeria.

In an open letter addressed to President Muhammadu Buhari, which was sighted

by THISDAY yesterday, the group called on the federal government to take immediate and decisive steps to rev

up the medical and health response to COVID-19 which should include, more aggressive contact tracing and increased community-based testing as well as incentivising health workers.

CSAA-COVID-19 is a group of 70 civil society organisations.

The open letter reads in part: “The strategy should be to ensure that the virus is not allowed to spread beyond the states still reporting cases and effectively curtailing spread within these states while the current lockdown lasts.

“The federal government should address increased

gender-based violence (GBV) by ensuring continued access to services for victims;clarifying that those providing GBVresponse services are exempted from movement restrictions in order to attend to victims and providing extra funding and other resources for GBV services.

“The restriction on mass gathering should be maintained. That would also mean continuing to limit religious gatherings, social gatherings and entertainmentrelated businesses.”

CSAA-COVID-19 called on President Buhari to enforce

social distancing rules by working with commercial transporters and National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) to limit the number of passengers that can be carried, adding that every transporter should be required to keep copies of detailed manifest of drivers and passengers.

It said government should urgently consider the mandatory use of masks by passengers in public transport vehicles alongside emergency measures to make these affordably available to those traveling.

T H I S D AY ˾ ͰͶ˜ ͰͮͰͮ

IMAGES

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Photo Editor ÌÓÙÎßØ ÔËÖË Email ËÌÓÙÎßØ˛ËÔËÖË̶ÞÒÓÝÎËãÖÓàÏ˛ÍÙ×

L-R: Representative of Senator Representing Lagos Central Senatorial District, Mr. Wahab Alawiye-King; Youth Leader, Lagos Central Senatorial District, Ahmed Mohammed and Women Leader, Mrs. Fadekemi Otitolaye, during the distribution of Covid-19 Palliatives by Senator Representing Lagos Central Senatorial District, to the Residents of Thirteen Local Government Area under her Senatorial District, at Police College……recently PHOTO: KOLA OLASUPO

Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri (left), presenting the state’s 2020 Appropriation Bill to the Speaker of the House of Assembly, Hon. Abraham Ingobere, at the assembly in Yenagoa...recently

New Comptroller of immigration, Lagos Zone, Mrs. D. I. Braimah (left); with Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, during a courtesy visit on her assumption of duty to the Lagos State Government House, Marina.... recently

Delta State Commission for Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu (left) and the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr. Olisa Ifeajika, briefing journalists at the end of the State Executive Council meeting in Government House, Asaba...recently

Governor Uzodimma (left) receiving Sanitizers from the VC, Federal University of Technology (FUTO), Prof.

Francis Eze in Government House, Owerri..recently

Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun (left) receiving the Director General, Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), Dr. Chikwe Ihekweazu when the latter led the WHO/NCDC team to inspect Isolation Centres in Ogun State and Molecular laboratories at the OOUTH, Sagamu...recently

The people of Ajaji in Illah, Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State, during a peaceful protest at the farmlands being bulldozed by Northsworthy Investment Company in Delta State...recently

Aseyin of Iseyin, Oba Abdul-Ganiy Adekunle Oloogunebi (Ajinese 1) receiving blessing from Omolewa masquerade during the appeasement to ward off COVID-19 from the nation...recently

T H I S D AY ˾ TUESDAY APRIL 28, 2020

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POLITICS

Group Politics Editor NSEOBONG OKON-EKONG Email nseobong.okonekong@thisdaylive.com (08114495324 SMS ONLY)

Has COVOD-19 Made Buhari More Compassionate?

Nseobong Okon-Ekong writes that the fight against COVID-19 may have revealed a compassionate President Muhammadu Buhari who has transformed from his previously known taciturn attitude to a listening and proactive manager

Buhari

P

resident Muhammadu Buhari’s speech on COVID-19 followed the pattern of his previous heartwarming response to the global pandemic, mainly in showing that he is capable of positive response to the yearnings of the people. A good number of Nigerians expected the President to extend the lockdown in Lagos, the Federal Capital Territory and Ogun by another 14 days, at least. Their reasons for this anticipation were very cogent going by the emerging grim statistics in the battle against COVID-19.

Since his last broadcast, a couple of milestones have been recorded, some good and others not so good, including cases of outright fatalities. During this period, however, more testing centres have been established by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) , whose helsman, Dr. Chikwe Ihekweazu, has suddenly become one of the well-known faces in Nigeria. Today, the NCDC has accredited 15 laboratories across the country with an aggregate capacity to undertake 2,500 tests per day across the country.

Among the good things recorded during the period is that Corporate Nigeria under the umbrella of Corporate Coalition Against COVID-19 has responded with a mighty impact in a continuous effort to fight the pandemic across several states of the federation. Also there have commendable contribution from individuals, faith-based organisations and the media in a demonstration of a rare sense of responsibility to assist the governments at various levels in the fight against the pandemic. All of these efforts have resulted in keeping the pandemic under some sort of control. According to the President, “Initial models predicted that Nigeria will record an estimated 2,000 confirmed cases in the first month after the index case.”

At the time Buhari’s speech, Nigeria had recorded 1,273 cases across 32 States and the FCT. Unfortunately, this includes 40 deaths. But this is below the estimated 2000 confirmed cases that were predicted to be recorded in Nigeria. For this reason, the President rightly concluded that “despite the increase in the number of confirmed cases recorded in the past two weeks, the measures we have put in place thus far have yielded positive outcomes against the projections. The proportion of cases imported from other countries has reduced to only 19% of new cases, showing that our border closures yielded positive results. These are mostly fellow Nigerians returning through our land borders. We will continue to enforce land border arrival protocols as part of the

Ganduje

containment strategy.”

One of the good outcomes of the current fight against the COVID-19 pandemic is the opportunity for enhanced capacity that it has afforded healthcare professionals. The assumption is that there will be a spillover from concentrating on infectious diseases to a broad spectrum overhaul of the entire healthcare system in Nigeria. It is good news to hear that insurance cover have been procured for 5,000 frontline health workers. In addition over 10,000 health workers have been trained. Indeed, the fight against COVID-19 has exposed a different Buhari who changed from previously known taciturn attitude to a listening and proactive manager. More importantly it is noteworthy that the President is working closely with the Presidential Task Force on the pandemic, as he mentioned in several instance intelligence supplied by professionals in that think-tank.

Admitting shortfalls logistical challenges, the President, however, expressed that he was committed to establishing a solid supply chain process to ensure these heroic professionals (in the health sector) can work safely and are properly equipped. Though it is coming at a very difficult time, this must be a period of celebration for health care workers as government demonstrated willingness to keep its promise to improve their welfare. In line with this, the Federal Government has signed a memorandum of understanding on the provision of hazard allowances and other incentives with key health sector professional associations.

Addressing the distribution of palliative

Ihekweazu

which has been a major source of concern and criticism, the President said he was mindful of the seeming frustration being faced by expectant citizens and pleaded for understanding while expanded the procedure and deployed more transparent methods.

He said, “I urge all potential beneficiaries to exercise patience as we continue to finetune our logistical and distribution processes working with the state governments.”

Another surprise in the recent presidential broadcast was his focus on the behaviour of security agencies. Many Nigerians would be happy to note that Buhari is changing from his previous attitude of feigning ignorance of happenings around him to a compassionate leader who is willing to admit mistakes and offer apologies. “While we feel deeply concerned about isolated security incidents, I want to assure all Nigerians that your safety and security remain our primary concern especially in these difficult and uncertain times. As we focus on protecting lives and properties, we will not tolerate any human rights abuse by our security agencies. The few reported incidences are regrettable, and I want to assure you that the culprits will be brought to justice,” the President stated.

While admonishing the security agents to be of good conduct in their interactions with members of the public in these trying times, Buhari also spared a thought for them. Noting that they needed protection also, he instructed that the personnel of all the security agencies be provided with the necessary personal protective equipment against infection.

While admonishing the security agents to be of good conduct in their interactions with members of the public in these trying times, Buhari also spared a thought for them. Noting that they needed protection also, he instructed that the personnel of all the security agencies be provided with the necessary personal protective equipment against infection.

As widely acknowledged that the Nigerian economy is largely constituted by the informal sector, the President said he was aware that the lockdowns have come at a very heavy economic cost. He showed empathy with many citizens have lost their means of livelihood and businesses that have shut down

As widely acknowledged that the Nigerian economy is largely constituted by the informal sector, the President said he was aware that the lockdowns have come at a very heavy economic cost. He showed empathy with many citizens have lost their means of livelihood and businesses that have shut down. “No country,” he said, “can afford the full impact of a sustained lockdown while awaiting the development of vaccines.”

For a teeming majority of Nigerians in states were the lockdowns were enforced it was reassuring to hear the President say, “ We assessed how our factories, markets, traders and transporters can continue to function while at the same time adhering to NCDC guidelines on hygiene and social distancing. We assessed how our children can continue to learn without compromising their health. We reviewed how our farmers can safely plant and harvest in this rainy season to ensure our food security is not compromised. Furthermore, we also discussed how to safely transport food items from rural production areas to industrial processing zones and ultimately, to the key consumption centers.”

Therefore acting on informed suggestions from the Presidential Task Force on COVID-19, the various Federal Government committees that have reviewed socio-economic matters and the Nigeria Governors Forum, the President announced a phased and gradual easing of lockdown measures in FCT, Lagos and Ogun States effective from Monday, 4th May, 2020.

Of course, the reported mass deaths in Kano had been a matter of public concern in the past few days. Obviously, President Buhari would not allow the opportunity of a nationwide broadcast pass without addressing that issue. He immediately offered to help Kano. “Although an in-depth investigation is still ongoing, we have decided to deploy additional Federal Government manpower, material and technical resources to strengthen and support the state government’s efforts, with immediate effect. In Kano, and indeed many other States that are recording new cases, preliminary findings show that such cases are mostly from interstate travel and emerging community transmission.

With regards to Kano, I have directed the enforcement of a total lockdown for a period of two weeks effective immediately. The Federal Government shall deploy all the necessary human, material and technical resources to support the state in controlling and containing the pandemic and preventing the risk of further spread to neighboring states.”

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TUESDAY, ÍşÎ€Ëœ ͺ͸ͺ͸ Ëž T H I S D AY

FOR THE RECORDS

Let’s Unite Against COVID-19, Says Buhari F

ellow Nigerians.

I will start by commending you all for the resilience and patriotism that you have shown in our collective fight against the biggest health challenge of our generation.

As at yesterday, 26th April 2020, some three million confirmed cases of COVID-19 have been recorded globally with about 900,000 recoveries. Unfortunately, some 200,000 people have passed away as a result of this pandemic.

The health systems and economies of many nations continue to struggle as a result of the coronavirus pandemic.

Nigeria continues to adapt to these new global realities on a daily basis. Today, I will present the facts as they are and explain our plans for the coming months fully aware that some key variables and assumptions may change in the coming days or weeks.

Exactly two weeks ago, there were 323 confirmed cases in 20 States and the Federal Capital Territory.

As at this morning, Nigeria had recorded 1,273 cases across 32 States and the FCT. Unfortunately, this includes 40 deaths.

I am using this opportunity to express our deepest condolences to the families of all Nigerians that have lost their loved ones as a result of the COVID-19 Pandemic. This is our collective loss and we share your grief.

Initial models predicted that Nigeria will record an estimated 2,000 confirmed cases in the first month after the index case.

This means that despite the increase in the number of confirmed cases recorded in the past two weeks, the measures we have put in place thus far have yielded positive outcomes against the projections.

The proportion of cases imported from other countries has reduced to only 19% of new cases, showing that our border closures yielded positive results. These are mostly fellow Nigerians returning through our land borders.

We will continue to enforce land border arrival protocols as part of the containment strategy.

Today, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has accredited 15 laboratories across the country with an aggregate capacity to undertake 2,500 tests per day across the country.

Based on your feedback, Lagos State Government and the FCT with support from NCDC have established several sample collection centers. They are also reviewing their laboratory testing strategy to further increase the number of tests they can perform including the accreditation of selected private laboratories that meet the accreditation criteria.

Several new fully equipped treatment and isolation centres have been operationalised across the country thereby increasing bed capacity to about three thousand.

I commend the State Governors for the activation of state-level Emergency Operation Centres, establishment of new treatment centres and the delivery of aggressive risk communication strategies.

Over 10,000 healthcare workers have been trained. For their protection, additional personal protective equipment have been distributed to all the states.

Although we have experienced logistical challenges, we remain committed to establishing a solid supply chain process to ensure these heroic professionals can work safely and are properly equipped.

In keeping with our government’s promise to improve the welfare of healthcare workers, we have signed a memorandum of understanding on the provision of hazard allowances and other incentives with key health sector professional associations.

We have also procured insurance cover for 5,000 frontline health workers. At this point, I must commend the insurance sector for their support in achieving this within a short period of time.

Nigeria has also continued to receive support from the international community, multilateral agencies, the private sector and public-spirited individuals. This support has ensured that critical lifesaving equipment and materials, which have become scarce globally, are available for Nigeria through original equipment manufacturers and government-to-government processes.

r5IFSF XJMM CF BO PWFSOJHIU DVSGFX GSPN 8pm to 6am. This means all movements will be prohibited during this period except for essential services; r5IFSF XJMM CF B CBO PO OPO FTTFOUJBM JOUFS TUBUF passenger travel until further notice; r1BSUJBM BOE DPOUSPMMFE JOUFSTUBUF NPWFNFOU of goods and services will be allowed for the movement of goods and services from producers to consumers; and r 8F XJMM TUSJDUMZ FOTVSF UIF NBOEBUPSZ VTF of face masks or coverings in public in addition to maintaining physical distancing and personal hygiene. Furthermore, the restrictions on social and religious gatherings shall remain in place. State Governments, corporate organisations and philanthropists are encouraged to support the production of cloth masks for citizens. r 'PS UIF BWPJEBODF PG EPVCU UIF MPDLEPXO in the FCT, Lagos and Ogun States shall remain in place until these new ones come into effect on Monday, 4th May 2020.

Buhari The distribution and expansion of palliatives which I directed in my earlier broadcast is still on going in a transparent manner. I am mindful of the seeming frustration being faced by expectant citizens. I urge all potential beneficiaries to exercise patience as we continue to fine tune our logistical and distribution processes working with the State Governments.

Our security agencies continue to rise to the challenge posed by this unusual situation.

While we feel deeply concerned about isolated security incidents, I want to assure all Nigerians that your safety and security remain our primary concern especially in these difficult and uncertain times.

As we focus on protecting lives and properties, we will not tolerate any human rights abuses by our security agencies. The few reported incidences are regrettable, and I want to assure you that the culprits will be brought to justice.

I urge all Nigerians to continue to cooperate and show understanding whenever they encounter security agents. Furthermore, for their protection, I have instructed that the personnel of all the security agencies be provided with the necessary personal protective equipment against infection.

As we continue to streamline our response in the centers of Lagos and the FCT, I am gravely concerned about the unfortunate developments in Kano in recent days. Although an in-depth investigation is still ongoing, we have decided to deploy additional federal government manpower, material and technical resources to strengthen and support the state government’s efforts, with immediate effect.

In Kano, and indeed many other states that are recording new cases, preliminary findings show that such cases are mostly from interstate travel and emerging community transmission.

Drawing from these, I implore all Nigerians to continue to adhere strictly to the advisories published by the Presidential Task Force and the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control.

These include regular hand washing, physical distancing, wearing of face masks/coverings in public, avoidance of non-essential movement and travels and avoidance of large gatherings.

Fellow Nigerians, for the past four weeks, most parts of our country have been under either federal government or state government lockdowns. As I mentioned earlier, these steps were necessary and overall, have contributed

to slowing down the spread of COVID-19 in our country.

However, such lock downs have also come at a very heavy economic cost. Many of our citizens have lost their means of livelihood. Many businesses have shut down. No country can afford the full impact of a sustained lockdown while awaiting the development of vaccines.

In my last address, I mentioned the federal government will develop strategies and policies that will protect lives while preserving livelihoods.

In these two weeks, the federal and state governments have jointly and collaboratively worked hard on how to balance the need to protect health while also preserving livelihoods, leveraging global best practices while keeping in mind our peculiar circumstances.

We assessed how our factories, markets, traders and transporters can continue to function while at the same time adhering to NCDC guidelines on hygiene and social distancing.

We assessed how our children can continue to learn without compromising their health.

We reviewed how our farmers can safely plant and harvest in this rainy season to ensure our food security is not compromised. Furthermore, we also discussed how to safely transport food items from rural production areas to industrial processing zones and ultimately, to the key consumption centers.

Our goal was to develop implementable policies that will ensure our economy continues to function while still maintaining our aggressive response to the COVID-19 pandemic. These same difficult decisions are being faced by leaders around the world.

Based on the above and in line with the recommendations of the Presidential Task Force on COVID-19, the various federal government committees that have reviewed socio-economic matters and the Nigeria Governors Forum, I have approved a phased and gradual easing of lockdown measures in FCT, Lagos and Ogun States effective from Monday, 4th May, 2020.

However, this will be followed strictly with aggressive reinforcement of testing and contact tracing measures while allowing the restoration of some economic and business activities in certain sectors.

The Presidential Task Force shall provide sector specific details to allow for preparations by governments, businesses and institutions.

In respect to the above guidelines. state governors may choose to adapt and expand based on their unique circumstances provided they maintain alignment with the guidelines issued above.

To support our businesses and traders, the monetary and fiscal authorities shall deploy all the necessary provisions needed for production to continue and thus, jobs restored.

These revised guidelines will not apply to Kano State.

With regards to Kano, I have directed the enforcement of a total lockdown for a period of two weeks effective immediately. The federal government shall deploy all the necessary human, material and technical resources to support the state in controlling and containing the pandemic and preventing the risk of further spread to neighboring states.

I wish to once again commend the frontline workers across the country who, on a daily basis, risk everything to ensure we win this fight. For those who got infected in the line of duty, rest assured that government will do all it takes to support you and your families during this exceedingly difficult period. I will also take this opportunity to assure you all that your safety, wellbeing and welfare remains paramount to our government.

I will also recognise the support we have received from our traditional rulers, the Christian Association of Nigeria, the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs and other prominent religious and community leaders. Your cooperation and support have significantly contributed to the successes we have recorded to date.

I will urge you all to please continue to create awareness on the seriousness of the coronavirus among your worshippers and communities while appealing that they strictly comply with public health advisories.

I also thank the Nigeria Governors’ Forum and the Presidential Task Force for all their hard work to date. Through this collaboration, I remain confident that success is achievable.

I also wish to thank corporate organisations, philanthropists, the UN system, the European Union, friendly nations, the media and other partners that have taken up the responsibility of supporting our response.

And finally, I will thank all Nigerians again for your patience and cooperation during this difficult and challenging period. I assure you that government shall continue to take all necessary measures to protect the lives and livelihoods of our citizens and residents.

I thank you for listening and may God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria

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T H I S D AY ˾ ˜ ͰͶ˜ ͰͮͰͮ

COMMENT

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

LEADERSHIP WITH SINCERITY

Boss Mustapha, Chairman of the Presidential Task Force on Covid-19, has demonstrated responsibility, writes Tajudeen Kareem

L

eaders of the Presidential Task Force on Covid-19 rose to the challenge Monday, April 20 as they offered explanations on the rowdy setting and breach of medical protocol witnessed at the burial of the departed Chief of Staff to the President, Mallam Abba Kyari.

Mallam Abba Kyari died on Friday, April 17. He was buried the next day in accord with Islamic rites. Participants at the funeral, however, breached several protocols on handling of issues in the coronavirus pandemic.

The PTF Covid-19 team led with sincerity and humility in its response. It acknowledged the errors, apologised and defined a new path away from the infraction.

Chairman of the task force, Boss Mustapha admitted that: “The PTF recognizes, regrettably, the unintentional violation of the principles and protocols that form the core of our messaging to Nigerians at the funeral of the late Chief of Staff. These principles, for emphasis, include the guidance provided on mass gatherings, social distancing, personal hygiene, and restriction of movements.”

Mustapha, who is also the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, said further: “Lessons have been learnt and appropriate measures have been taken to close all gaps. We assure all Nigerians of their safety and the determination of the PTF to combat the pandemic.”

Leaders emerge or affirm their credentials in the crucible of fire. They do so with accountability, responsiveness and the ability to take responsibility. Members of the task force showed their mettle at the national press briefing on Covid-19 this Monday, confirming their pledge to serve citizens with forthrightness during this dreadful pandemic.

The Chairman of the PTF Covid-19 in oral remarks further apologised to the nation over the lapses. The team took responsibility. More significant is the pledge to abide with the protocol in the days ahead.

Indeed, the National Coordinator of the PTF on Covid-19, Dr. Sani Aliyu was poignant in pledging to ensure that future events are adequately regulated in line with agreed protocols. His apology was profound on live national television and won the admiration of Nigerians.

“The PTF would like to acknowledge and apologise for the mistakes that were made regarding the burial of the late chief of staff. We realised that crowd control failed; we have learnt from this and we will ensure future events are adequately regulated and followed the requisite protocols,” he promised.

To assuage social media warriors, he disclosed that the Gudu cemetery, Abuja, where Kyari was buried, has since been decontaminated

WE ASK FOR THE PUBLIC TO CONTINUE TO HOLD US ACCOUNTABLE FOR OUR ACTIONS, WE READ YOUR COMMENTS IN THE SOCIAL MEDIA, WE LISTEN TO YOU AND WE ACKNOWLEDGE THE ISSUES THAT MIGHT ARISE

while the personal protective gear discarded at the site was promptly decontaminated, burnt and discarded according to the guidelines of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC).

But more significant is the assurance offered to douse the anxiety on the possible dangers posed by bodies of those killed by coronavirus.

“I will like to further clarify the issue of Covid-19 and their viral processes. Contrary to what is on the social media, the late chief of staff’s body was properly prepared for burial according to NCDC guidelines and the Islamic faith,” said Dr. Aliu He explained that bodies of persons with Covid-19, as stated clearly by the World Health Organisation guidelines, do not constitute any danger to those who may have contact with it, as seen at the burial of late Kyari.

Quoting the guidelines, he said “except in cases of viral haemorrhagic fevers and cholera, dead bodies are generally not infectious.”

The World Health Organisation says that except in cases of haemorrhagic fevers such as Ebola, Marburg and cholera, corpses are generally not infectious. The organisation, in its interim guidance on ‘Infection prevention and control for safe management of a dead body in the context of COVID-19’, said that only the lungs of patients with pandemic influenza, if handled improperly during an autopsy, could be infectious.

“Otherwise, cadavers do not transmit disease. It is a common myth that persons who have died of a communicable disease should be cremated, but this is not true. Cremation is a matter of cultural choice and available resources,” it said.

WHO added that to date, there is no evidence of persons having become infected from exposure to the bodies of persons who died from Covid-19.

Dr. Aliu, who had previously served as the director general at the National Agency for the Control of AIDS, gave further assurance that the task force “will continue to follow the guidelines and protocols that we have produced” as the NCDC guidelines are very much reflective of the WHO guidelines.

“We will also like to assure the general public that the taskforce takes its presidential mandate seriously and is committed in executing it to the best of its ability. We ask for the public to continue to hold us accountable for our actions, we read your comments in the social media, we listen to you and we acknowledge the issues that might arise,” said Dr. Aliyu to Nigerians.

Kareem is a public policy analyst in Abuja

COVID-19 AND THE ECONOMY Debola Aina argues that there is no better time than now to make sweeping changes in the economy

C

ould this present situation of pandemic be a blessing in disguise?

I beg for forgiveness if I sound highly insensitive to the global crises.

I am not, more so that I reside in New York which is currently the epicenter of this Covid-19 pandemic. Perhaps I should rephrase the question: could something fundamentally positive result from these globally uncertain moments?

Given the catastrophe, most world leaders have assumed or arrogate to themselves the enormous power outside their constitution to the point of becoming dictatorship. The Prime Minister of Hungary used the pandemic to seize more power and crushed the opposition. He is not alone, Italy, to certain extent, is in the same league. It is held that a traumatic or radical problem calls for a radical solution. As a result, most of the measures called for by different leaders in tackling the pandemic are decreed, if you will, by executive order, which, in most cases, are a step in a right direction. They range from mandatory indoor confinement, especially for those with symptoms, to total closures of some businesses that are not essential. We have now in our lexicon a new phrase: social distancing. This calls for the prohibition of more than 10 people in any gathering and the observation of at least six feet separation from one individual to the other. Now in New York, we have been mandated to wear a mask whenever social distancing cannot be maintained. Failure to comply may earn you a sanction.

Besides the loss of human lives, the chief corollary of this pathogen, the global economy suffered paralysis. Stock markets crashed, bringing down all other indices of economy. As a result of closure of businesses, ineluctable massive lay-offs brought about the exponential rise in unemployment. In United States, over 20 million people filed for unemployment in a period of two weeks.

People were asked to stay at home to help contain

the spread of the virulent virus. In some third world countries, the sweeping power encourages the flogging of the citizens off the streets in order to enforce the lock down. In some developed countries such as United States and Italy, the dead toll is staggering, resulting in the former, of over 50,000 in a period of five weeks; and still rising.

The thrust of this essay, however, is, given the sweeping power generated by the leadership of different countries, would economic reform result, particularly in the developing nations?

Would these executives of these nations take the advantage of this rare opportunity and workhand - glove with their legislators to fashion and pass legislations that will promote the goal set up in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), as defined by the United Nations for the year 2030?

These goals are 17 in number and are paramount to the development of any nation, including develop ones.

Out of these 17 goals, number eight, decent work and economic growth; and nine, industry, innovation, and infrastructure will be discussed for the purpose of this article, as they relate to our country, Nigeria, and its development, going forward. With current situation of the Covid-19, it is not difficult to assess the detailed level of our economic position. The malcontent that greeted the manner with which the country is steered during the crises, in terms of distribution of essential things, betokens the lack of resources and solid institutions capable of bringing relief to the teaming populace.

Placing this country of ours on an economic pedestal of growth will not be achieved ex nihilo.

Certain measures have to be instituted. There is no better time than now for the administration to pass legislations that will usher in sweeping changes in the economy, given the complaisant legislature; and that is no derogation of the institution. The first step is the diversification of the economy. The recent oil price plummet has shown

that overreliance on oil export for revenue is no virtue. I am aware that there is an effort towards diversification, but it is less than total. Some world financial institutions have indicated our potential for revenue generation via agriculture, a fact that we know, but failed to embrace.

We spend average of one trillion on petroleum subsidy, or less, as the case may be. Half of this can be expended on agriculture in form of loan to the farmers. I also favor the subsidy to the farmers that will bring about increase in produce and commensurately lower the price of food. In a country where many people live on less than the target figure of international $1.25 per day, cost of some food items may be prohibitive. More produce than what the country can consume would be meant for export. More benefit accrues to the people when agriculture is subsidized than oil is.

The Nigeria Export Promotion Council (NEPC) was established since 1976, with many amendments to his promulgation thereafter. Despite this, the level of none oil export is still low. In 2019 our total income from export was $53.6 billion. Given the population of 200 million people, it translates to about $201 per person. This needs to be augmented by encouraging more participation of ventures that promote export. Nigerian ExportImport Bank (NEXIM) has a significant role to play in this. Some of the money saved from the discontinuation of oil subsidy can be channeled into improving our export. The present level of export is indicative of inability to take advantage of our weaker currency that should readily attract countries with stronger currency to buy from us.

The engine room of any thriving economy is the aggregation of its small and medium businesses. In the developed economies, this sector accounts for 30 to 45% of the economy in terms of employment generation and contribution to the gross domestic product (GDP). In Nigeria, Small and Medium Enterprise Development Agency is

saddled with the responsibility of coordinating the growth of this sector. There is still much to be achieved in this dimension. The smidgen amount of N50,000 being made available would not go far in transforming these enterprises. To be eligible for a facility from the agency, an enterprise must employ two or more people with a business setup. The facility from the agency is to enhance the business and not to serve as a start-up cost. The least amount should not be less than quarter of a million. For the ventures looking for N20000 to N50000, the proper place to seek a facility should be the micro bank. The former deputy governor of Lagos State, Femi Pedro, the current chairman of the agency, is trying his possible best, given the level of funding provided by the government.

I don’t know how it sounds if I say that our nation is in infrastructural deficit. Here we are in the 21st century still operating on an effete infrastructure, given our exponential growth in population. And according to the 2017 United Nation projection, Nigeria would become the third most populous nation in 2050, surpassing United States. We need more construction of interstate highways. We have begun to modernize our rail system which is a welcome idea, but must not rest on our laurels. The communication system is good, but it can be upgraded. Where it shows that we are not ready to be at par with the rest of the world, whether or not we want to admit, is the power generation. Every other economic activities rest on this. We cannot be operating on the current infinitesmality of power and expect economy to thrive. Lack of power contributes immensely in the discontent following the lockdown in some states in Nigeria. It is time to get it right. It is akin to the biblical admonition: “seek first the kingdom of God, and all these things shall be added unto you.” Once we get it right, our industries will thrive and there will be no limit to the economic activities.

Aina wrote from New York, United States

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T H I S D AY ˾ TUESDAY, APRIL 28, 2020

EDITORIAL PERISH THE ‘FREE ELECTRICITY’ IDEA Palliatives will be more beneficial to Nigerians

A

ny criticism for the promise of a free two-month of electricity supply to Nigerians in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic lockdown should be directed at the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila. Despite being sufficiently aware that the country’s electricity sector is facing both technical and financial challenges, he floated the idea of free power supply without any prior discussion with critical stakeholders.

The speaker also knows too well that the federal government is facing a fiscal deficit of over N5 trillion due to the fall in oil prices, but he chose to make a promise that is now very difficult to keep.

Apparently in a desperate attempt to imitate other countries that have promised their people free electricity, the speaker overlooked several factors before coming up with the populist idea. If he had re-evaluated his promise for free electricity to Nigerians against the background of the challenges facing the sector, we believe that the speaker would have realised the flaw in his proposition.

Perhaps that explains IT WOULD AMOUNT TO why he is no longer SUBSIDISING THE RICH vociferous about it.

AT THE EXPENSE OF THE But he has already POOR BECAUSE IT WOULD created enough buzz for many Nigerians EXCLUDE ABOUT 80 MILLION NIGERIANS WHO to begin to ask for the DO NOT HAVE ACCESS TO implementation of a counter-productive ELECTRICITY idea.

According to industry data from two relevant agencies in the sector – the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) and Nigerian Bulk Electricity Trading Plc (NBET), the federal government would incur an average cost of N109.83 billion to supply free electricity to Nigerians in the two months the speaker has proposed. And this is without factoring in other auxiliary expenses such as regulatory and transmission charges as well as exchange

rate differentials at a time the value of the Naira is falling very rapidly.

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T H I S DAY EDITOR BOLAJI ADEBIYI DEPUTY EDITOR YEMI AJAYI, DAVIDSON IRIEKPEN, MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR KAYODE KOMOLAFE CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN MANAGING EDITOR JOSEPH USHIGIALE

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 BOLAJI ADEBIYI, 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 HEAD, COMPUTER DEPARTMENT PATRICIA UBAKA-ADEKOYA

rom available statistics, between January and December 2019, the electricity supplied to Nigerians cost between N55 billion and N53 billion monthly. This is based on the bills sent to the 11 electricity distribution companies (Discos) by the NBET. For instance, the least cost of N48bn was incurred in June 2019, while the highest monthly cost for the year, N62bn, was incurred last December. In January 2019, the NBET sent an invoice of N56bn to the 11 Discos as the cost of power supply for the month. From the invoices sent by NBET to the Discos, the total cost of electricity supplied for the year 2019 was N634bn. Meanwhile, in January 2020, the cost of electricity sent to the Discos was N52bn; which gives a rough idea of how much the government will spend on the proposition.

Besides the potential expenditure, there are also questions on the real beneficiaries of the free power.

Most communities in the country still suffer from poor distribution infrastructure with transformers broken down for months or even years. Thus we need to be clear about this: the bulk of Nigerians who will enjoy this free electricity for two months would not be the poor but rather the affluent amongst us and people within the median wage bracket. Other beneficiaries will include corporate entities. On Sunday, the Minister of Power, Alhaji Saleh Mamman explained that it would amount to subsidising the rich at the expense of the poor because it would exclude “about 80 million Nigerians who do not have access to electricity, while using tax payer’s money to support already privileged individuals who have access to electricity.”

The federal government already subsidises electricity consumption in the country through NERC’s Multi Year Tariff Order (MYTO) rates. We should endeavour to spend our scarce money on palliatives that will reasonably be beneficial to all Nigerians. The federal government should perish the idea of a two-month free electricity

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Letters to the Editor

LAGOS, COVID-19 AND FAKE NEWS

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alph Fiennes is one of the most fearless individuals on Earth, having embarked on incredibly dangerous expeditions. But then, even Fiennes has his fears. He is afraid of heights. This actually brings to reality the axiom that, “there is no illusion greater than fear”.

To say the least, the fear of the COVID-19 pandemic has confounded even the most fearless among men. Not even the honey badger in the animal kingdom can deny the fiery wave of the pandemic. The virus has, no doubt, created palpable fear across the entire world. It has even raised suspicion among kinsmen, and distrust amid hitherto closely knitted persons, for the fear of the unknown.

However, the heightened tension created by the virus could only be subdued by positive disposition such that the already tensed atmosphere would not be further aggravated.

Sadly, rather than do things that would assuage the unpleasant circumstances, many are worsening it through thoughtless spread of fake news, thereby instilling needless fears in the minds of the people.

For instance, recently, some mischief-makers circulated a document purportedly written by a senior citizen, Mrs. Olu Maduka, condemning the management of the COVID-19 pandemic by the Lagos State government. The purported author has since come out to deny the authorship of the satanic missive, in the process restating her full confidence in the ability of Mr. Governor and his team to manage the crisis.

The furor caused by this irresponsible act had hardly declined when a supposed list of hospitals, where COVID-19 cases was prevalent in the state and, therefore, unsafe for the residents to visit,

surfaced. Like a wild fire, the phony news traveled so swiftly that the explanation given later by the State Ministry of Health could not easily erase the damage already done by the sham news.

According to the Ministry of Health, the development is the handiwork of mischief makers and fake news merchants who are bent on causing panic in the community and eroding the successes recorded in the battle against COVID-19.

The ministry, therefore, urged all residents to disregard the list in its entirety and rely solely on the State Ministry of Health for information on the operation of health facilities and management of COVID-19 cases in the state.

Understandably, Lagos remains the epicenter of COVID-in the country. On 22 April, the state recorded 74 confirmed cases of COVID-19. As at midnight of April 24th, Lagos had a total of 670 confirmed cases of Covid-19, an increase of 291 cases since Monday April 20. This implies that the state has recorded a 76 per cent increase in the number of confirmed cases within four days, an average of 70 cases daily.

The increase number of cases of the dreaded pandemic in the state has multiple implications. First, community transmission of the virus has intensified. Second, the strategy of ramping up testing, especially within local communities is working. Third, this is not the time to relax or to slow down in the efforts being made to break the chain of transmission.

It becomes imperative to allay different assumptions surrounding the increase figure, as it does not necessarily suggests that the situation is getting out of hands. Rather, it reveals the effectiveness of new approaches and strategies being adopted by the government, as all positive cases are now easily identified and swiftly

attended to.

Recall that before witnessing this high figure, the state government had already set up sampling stations in the 20 Local Government Areas of the state in order to increase its COVID-19 testing capacity for citizens, who fit the case definition of COVID-19, to visit and drop samples for testing.

In effect, the establishment of these testing centres has assisted the COVID-19 response team get a better grasp of happenings in the community and also aid early diagnosis of the disease at the grassroots.

There was an unconfirmed report that certain local government areas (LGAs), were identified as worst hit COVID-19 zones in the state. To some residents of the state, this unverified disclosure has become a major source of panic.

This hearsay report could have succeeded in warning residents of the affected areas to be more careful, as infected persons have been discovered there. It also sends a caution to the general public to be aware of the closeness of the pandemic to them.

However, rather than exhibiting fears and worries, the emphasis, for the residents, should be on maintaining social distancing, regular washing of hands and strict adherence to all other precautionary measures as directed by the state government.

As against spreading of fake news that heighten fears and anxiety, all hands must be on deck in the genuine effort to combat this deadly pandemic. Lagos residents are, therefore, strongly advised to shun news that could increase their volatility and decrease their level of immunity and resilience.

Ayo Afuwape, Social Media Department, Lagos State Ministry of Information & Strategy, Alausa, Ikeja

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WEEKLY PULL-OUT

28.04.2020

RICHARD AKINJIDE, SAN:

PASSAGE OF A LEGAL COLOSSUS

Chief Richard Osuolale Abimbola Akinjide CON, CFR, SAN

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Gov. Umahi, Immigration Boss and Covid-19 Dilemma

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or a while now, I have been shouting from the rooftops to all who care to listen, that Nigeria had drifted from being a democracy to being a somewhat autocratic State. I arrived at this conclusion, because of the way and manner in which the Federal Government flouted court orders with gusto and aplomb, while displaying a total disregard for the rule of law and due process.

Examples of this administration’s highhandedness are rife - the DSS raid on judicial officers in October 2016, refusing to release people from detention when they had been granted bail by courts of competent jurisdiction, making huge expenditure without securing the necessary approval from the National Assembly, like in the case of the purchase of the Tucano jets for almost $500 million, issuing a directive that those stealing ballot boxes should be shot on sight, making critical appointments, without taking into consideration the Federal character provisions of the Constitution.....The list of examples is endless.

instruction or accept bribes from violators of a non-existent offence, and Ebonyi State will get away with their unconstitutional directive.

Shi ke nan!

Again, Governor Umahi displayed his lack of knowledge of Sections 22 and 39 of the Constitution which gives the press the freedom to uphold the fundamental objectives contained in Chapter 2 of the Constitution and uphold the responsibility and accountability of the Government to the people; and guarantee our right to freedom of expression and the press, respectively, by again, threatening journalists with banning and “koboko” (horsewhip) - the Governor seems to have a penchant for caning!

His shabby treatment of two correspondents of the Sun and Vanguard newspapers, Chijioke Agwu and Peter Okutu, is unacceptable in a democratic setting.

The internet has various videos of Officers, both Police and Army, dancing in their uniforms. There was one video which I particularly liked, with four female Police officers all sporting low hair cuts rapping while dancing and displaying the “shaku shaku” dance steps. There was another video of male soldiers dancing in their uniform - as we say in Yoruba “won ki jo mo le” (they danced into the ground)! Why did we not hear the same hue and cry, from the Police Force or the Army? As for using inappropriate language, I didn’t hear the voices of the FIOs in the videoclip I viewed, only the voice of Falz.

The funniest allegation against the FIOs is, sabotage of the values upheld by the Service. The actual rule used for this alleged infraction - Public Service Rule 030402 (t) only mentions sabotage simpliciter; and while one can logically infer that sabotage in this context, means undermining the system of the Immigration Service in such a manner as to damage or obstruct its workings, even with the most vivid imagination, surely one cannot stretch it to include dancing in your uniform as fitting into this category!

Any attempt to dismiss the FIOs from the Immigration Service, would be nothing short of discrimination against them and downright intolerance. If Officers are not allowed to dance in their uniforms or appear in videos, the Flag and Coat of Arms Act can be amended accordingly or a new law promulgated, to reflect this position. It is unfair to punish people, for an act that is not known to be an offence.

Governor Umahi, the little Tyrant So, why was it then a shock or surprise, when Governor Umahi of Ebonyi State directed that those caught violating his new order that people should wear face masks in public, should be caned? As if this is not the type of autocratic system we run, where Government simply does as it pleases. Aside from the fact that there is no provision in the Criminal Code Act (applicable in the Southern States) for this type of offence or punishment (and an offence is only an offence, when it is provided for by a law), if there was even such a punishment, it would be void ab initio, for its inconsistency with the provision of 34(1)(a) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) (the Constitution).

My guess is that, the Governor must have enjoyed viewing some of the videos which recently trended on social media, where in some countries, people were beaten by law enforcement agents, for flouting the stay-at-home order during this Covid-19 crisis! Is Governor Umahi not aware that Section 34(1)(a) of the Constitution provides that: “Every individual is entitled to respect for the dignity of his person, and no person shall be subjected to torture or to inhuman or degrading treatment”? Does the Governor not know that, caning is torture and degrading treatment? Did the Governor forget that by virtue of Section 185(1) of the Constitution, he took the Oath of Allegiance and Oath of Office of Governor of a State (Seventh Schedule to the Constitution), swearing to uphold, defend and carry out his duties in accordance to the Constitution, and that such a directive to mete out corporal punishment is unconstitutional?

Obviously the Governor is also unaware of the Anti-Torture Act 2017 which criminalises torture, cruel, inhuman and degrading treatment (including beatings); and makes offenders liable to up to 25 years imprisonment - be it the person who actually carried out the torture, or the “oga” that ordered it.

The sad part of Governor Umahi’s directive is that, whichever law enforcement agency that has been directed to mete out this punishment, will be only too happy to follow Governor Umahi’s

Nigerian Immigration Service and the “BOP Daddy” Saga As for the higher authority of the Nigerian Immigration Service, who must be totally unaware of Section 42(1) of the Constitution which prohibits discrimination against an individual on the basis of sex, they are in the same category as Governor Umahi, in terms of their seeming lack of knowledge of the Constitution.

We have always known that, many of our government officials are less occupied than they should be (I’m being polite here, because the words that easily and readily come to mind, are jobless/ idle). Because if they were otherwise meaningfully occupied and adequately engaged with work, the Assistant Comptroller General of Immigration (ACGI) would have been too occupied with more pressing matters, and would not have had time to issue the most ridiculous query in the world, to the pretty female Immigration officers (FIOs) who featured in the musician Falz’s BOP Daddy video.

The FIOs are accused of an embarrassing display of indecent flaunting of their bodies, desecration of Service uniform/beret, use of inappropriate language and sabotage of the values upheld by the Service. Flaunting their bodies? How? The FIOs were simply shown first in their uniforms, then a transformation into mufti, holding on to their berets. Their private parts were not displayed, so why attempt to body shame them? Would the ACGI have had the same reaction and issued a query, if it was Male Officers in the video? Or if the FIOs were adorned in kaftans/ boubous/iro and buba with gele? I searched the Public Service Rules 2016, and did not find any provision that prohibits officers from dancing in their uniforms.

As for the accusation of desecrating their uniforms or berets, does the ACGI even know the definition of the word “desecration”?

Desecration is defined as “treat (a sacred place or thing) with violent disrespect”; “spoil something which is valued or respected”. Pray tell, how does gyrating a bit in your uniform and removing your beret, translate into violent disrespect or spoiling? In any event, I’m only aware of the existence of the Flags and Coat of Arms Act 2004, which prohibits the improper use or display of the Flag or Coat of Arms, and makes it an offence for anyone to do so, punishable with a fine.

Ebonyi State Governor, David Umahi

Male Soldiers “ti won kijo mo le” (dancing into the ground)

P.S.: Covid-19 Update The numbers of infections from the Covid-19 virus in the country, are now rising at an alarming rate, despite the lockdown. Like I said before, the Nigerian environment is extremely backward, and I know that I may sound strange when I say that, while I agree that no one was really prepared to handle a crisis of this magnitude, we are less prepared than many other countries, to face it.

I listened to an audio recording that trended last week, in which the voice stated that in the Amuwo Odofin area of Lagos where a house to house testing exercise was purportedly conducted for a number of days, out of each 40 tests carried out, 10 tested positive for Covid-19. Even if the recording cannot be authenticated (or is fake news), the truth is that it actually reflects our reality. Those areas are too densely populated, with up to 10 occupants per room, maybe 4 rooms per floor in a “face me-I face you” type setting, sharing common conveniences per floor. If one person contracts the virus in that type of setting, everyone in the building is likely to contract it, as there can be nothing like social distancing in these types of environments, which are in the majority in our country.

The NCDC seems to be overwhelmed, as people are complaining that they do not respond to requests for testing timeously, if even they respond at all. I know someone who was exposed to the virus, in the course of a visit to their family hospital. Having received no response to a form filled on the NCDC platform online requesting for testing, the person was eventually able to locate a testing centre in Lekki or so. Six days

ONIKEPO BRAITHWAITE

THE ADVOCATE onikepo.braithwaite@thisdaylive.com onikepob@yahoo.com Twitter: @TheAdvocateTD

“MY GUESS IS THAT, THE GOVERNOR MUST HAVE ENJOYED VIEWING SOME OF THE VIDEOS WHICH RECENTLY TRENDED ON SOCIAL MEDIA, WHERE IN SOME COUNTRIES, PEOPLE WERE BEATEN BY LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENTS, FOR FLOUTING THE STAYAT-HOME ORDER DURING THIS COVID-19 CRISIS!”

later, the test results are not out! If a person was infected and sick, chances are they may die before they receive their test results and commence treatment.

There also seems to be a serious case of under-reporting of the numbers of infection, which could be as a result of various factors, including people hiding and not coming out to admit to being infected, not enough tests being carried out, or cover ups as seems to be the case in Kano, where Governor Ganduje said in a television interview last week, that they had only one reported death from Covid-19, only for Doctor Sabitu Shuaibu, the Deputy Coordinator, Kano State Covid-19 Response, to state in a subsequent interview that 640 people had died in the Kano metropolis over a period of one week, and they were commencing an investigation to find out if the deaths were from Covid-19! Frightening.

The modalities for a lockdown here are not feasible, because of overcrowding, poverty, illiteracy and lack of knowledge. Even those who should know better, jettisoned all social distancing rules to attended the funeral of the late Chief of Staff, Abba Kyari. What good is their useless apology to the nation, if by their reckless behaviour they have spread the virus amongst themselves, and to others who they subsequently came in contact with, and then the multiplier effect? The Government cannot sustain its already less than adequate feeding programme, not just because of corruption, but owing to the fact that Nigeria is in an extremely precarious financial position, more so with the crash in oil prices, sale of oil being our major source of revenue. How long will the more privileged Nigerians be able to continue with their own interventions and feeding of the less privileged, when majority have suffered a significant loss in income due to the crisis?

The only viable solution I see to this pandemic, is for someone to find a cure for the Coronavirus fast, and make it available to all, as sooner than later, Government will have to rescind the lockdown order because of various factors including, the people’s hunger and restlessness, Government’s inability to continue to supply palliatives to the people ad infinitum, not to mention the increase in the crime rate.

LAW REPORT/3

Cheating and Criminal Breach of Trust: Conviction based on the Same Set of Facts

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of the Appellant, in respect of the two offences.

It was also submitted that, the Appellant did not canvass at the Court of Appeal that the offences were not proved beyond reasonable doubt against him, and as such, he cannot raise the issue before the Supreme Court. The Respondent’s counsel argued that, the concurrent findings and conclusions of the three lower courts could not be disturbed in this case, as there was no violation of any principle of law or procedure, which can be said to have resulted in a miscarriage of justice. He cited the case of Zakari v Nigerian Army (2015) 62 NSCQR (Pt.1) 214 at 254.

Facts

he Appellant entered into a contract with the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, Rivers State through the Director of Tourism, to supply a male calf giraffe in consideration for the sum of N3,500,000.00. The said sum was paid into the Appellant’s bank account, with the promise that the giraffe would be delivered within two weeks. After several months and despite repeated demands, the Appellant did not supply the giraffe or refund the money. Upon enquiry, the Director discovered that the Appellant had been withdrawing the sum deposited in his account leaving the sum of N1,000,000.00. She therefore, obtained an ex-parte order placing a lien on the account, but, before the service of the ex-parte order on the bank, further withdrawals had been made from the account leaving a balance of N995,000.00.

Subsequently, the Director made a complaint to the Police, the Appellant was arrested and charged before the Chief Magistrate’s Court with the offences of cheating and criminal breach of trust, contrary to Sections 312 and 322 of the Penal Code. Although, the Appellant testified that he is a veterinarian and that the animal was not available in Nigeria but in Niger Republic or Chad, he was found guilty as charged and sentenced to a fine of N5,000 or one year imprisonment for the offence of cheating, and a fine of N8,000 or two years imprisonment for criminal breach of trust. The Appellant unsuccessfully challenged his conviction and sentence, at the High Court and Court of Appeal. Hence, the appeal to the Supreme Court.

Issues for Determination In determining the appeal, the Supreme Court considered the following issues: 1. Whether the Court of Appeal was right to have upheld the conviction of the Appellant by the lower courts for both criminal breach of trust and cheating, based on the same factual situation in respect of one transaction in the same proceeding.

2. Whether the Court of Appeal was right to have relied on the judgement of the High Court to uphold the conviction and sentence of the Appellant for criminal breach of trust and cheating, having regard to the evidence.

Arguments On the first issue, the Appellant’s counsel contended that, the Appellant may be convicted for one of the two offences with which he was charged depending on which one of them is properly established, but he cannot be convicted for both offences, as the entire evidence is hinged on the same factual situation. Further, he submitted that, the offences have different ingredients and cannot co-exist in the same factual situation, borne out of a single transaction. He relied on the case of Uzoagba v COP (2014) 5 NWLR (Pt. 140) 441. The Respondent’s counsel argued that, the Court of Appeal was right to have upheld the conviction and sentencing of the Appellant, for the two offences. He cited Section 213 of the Criminal Code, and the case of Major Dennis Toinpre Des Dokubos v The Nigerian Army (2015) LPELR 25969 (CA). He also argued that, the Appellant did not canvass for separate trials for the two offences at the trial court, pursuant to Section 213 of the Criminal Procedure Code. He further submitted that, the Appellant did not show that he was prejudiced by his trial and conviction for the said offences in a single proceeding, based on the same facts.

On the second issue, the Appellant’s counsel submitted that, the prosecution did not prove its case beyond reasonable doubt, and the Court of Appeal was wrong to have upheld the decision of the High Court, which also upheld

Hon. Paul Adamu Galinje, JSC

In the Supreme Court of Nigeria Holden at Abuja On Friday, the 24th day of January, 2020 Before Their Lordships Olukayode Ariwoola Kudirat Motonmori Olatokunbo Kekere-Ekun John Inyang Okoro Amina Adamu Augie Paul Adamu Galinje Justices, Supreme Court SC.317/2018 Between Theophilus Kure ..................Appellant And Commissioner of Police ............... Respondent (Lead Judgement delivered by Hon. Paul Adamu Galinje, JSC)

the decision of the Chief Magistrate’s Court. The Respondent’s counsel contended that, having regard to the totality of the evidence adduced before the trial court, the Court of Appeal was right to have relied on the judgement of the High Court in upholding the conviction and sentence

“..... THE INGREDIENTS OF THE OFFENCES OF CHEATING AND CRIMINAL BREACH OF TRUST, ARE DIFFERENT. THEREFORE, THERE IS NO WAY THE APPELLANT COULD BE PROPERLY CONVICTED FOR THE TWO OFFENCES, BASED ON THE SAME SET OF FACTS.....”

Court’s Judgement and Rationale: On the first issue, the Supreme Court stated that the offence of cheating under Section 322 of the Penal Code involves deceit and/ or fraudulent and dishonest inducement of the person so deceived to part or deliver property to any person, while the offence of criminal breach of trust does not involve deceit and/or fraudulent and dishonest inducement of a settlor to deliver a property for which a trust is created, to the trustee. For a trust to be valid, it must involve a specific property, reflect the settlor’s intent, and be created for a lawful purpose. The Court further stated that, the ingredients of the offences of cheating and criminal breach of trust, are different. Therefore, there is no way the Appellant could be properly convicted for the two offences, based on the same set of facts involving the Rivers State Ministry of Culture and Tourism’s delivery of money to the Appellant for the contract of the supply of calf giraffe.

On the second issue, as regards the offence of cheating, the Supreme Court held that, the Appellant gave evidence that he is a veterinarian. The Court also stated that, the person who introduced the Appellant to the Ministry was not called as a witness, to deny that the Appellant is a veterinarian and that he does not deal in the supply of wild animals.

Further, there was no evidence that the Ministry was deceived or fraudulently induced to deliver the money to the Appellant. Therefore, the trial court was wrong to have found him guilty of the offence of cheating.

In respect of the offence of criminal breach of trust, the Apex Court held that, for criminal breach of trust to occur, there must be evidence of trust and that a trust exists, when a property is to be administered by one person on behalf of another for some purposes other than the trustee’s benefit. The Supreme Court concluded that, the money paid to the Appellant included the cost for logistics, procurement of the giraffe and the Appellant’s profit. The Court found that, there was no evidence that showed the beneficiary of the money that was given to the Appellant to buy the giraffe was a person other than the Appellant, as the money was to be administered by him. The Apex Court also held that, all prosecution witnesses testified that the transaction between the Ministry and the Appellant was based on contract, and that the contract had wholly failed because of the Appellant’s non-performance. Persuaded by the decision in Onagoruwa v State (1993) LPELR-43436 (CA) at pages 67 – 68, paras. F – B, the Court held that, the transaction involved in this case was based on a contractual agreement, with no evidence of criminal breach of trust.

Appeal Allowed. Appellant acquitted and discharged.

Representation L.A.O. Nylander, SAN with J.F. Adamu, Esq. Seember Wayo, Esq. and for the Appellant.

E. E. Ekhasemomhe, Esq. with P.O. Iyaji, Esq. for the Respondent.

Reported by Optimum Publishers Limited, Publishers of the Nigerian Monthly Law Reports (NMLR)

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Richard Akinjide, SAN: Passage of a Legal Colossus Nigeria has lost another legal icon; former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, former Minister in the First and Second Republics, and past President of the Nigerian Bar Association, Chief Richard Osuolale Abimbola Akinjide CON, CFR, SAN who joined the saints triumphant on Monday April 20, 2020 at the age of 89. His son, Abayomi Akinjide, Paul Usoro, SAN, Stephen Kola-Balogun, Chief Bayo Ojo, SAN, Chief Wole Olanipekun, SAN, Dr Olisa Agbakoba, SAN, Chief J.B. Daudu, SAN, Augustine Alegeh, SAN, Femi Falana, SAN, Chief Mike Ozekhome, SAN and Chief Bolaji Ayorinde, SAN pay tribute to the legal colossus and the legal theorist of the principle of 12 2/3 majority, which gave judicial victory to Alhaji Shehu Shagari as President of Nigeria in 1979. May his soul rest in peace. Amen

Tribute to Daddy, Chief Richard Osuolale Akinjide, SAN Abayomi Akinjide

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n Tuesday, 21st of April, my dearest Dad went to be with the Lord, and we give glory to God for a life lived to the fullest. Up to the time of his death, he continued to be dedicated to his work and his family. We thank God that he died peacefully of natural causes.

I will give some personal insights of the early years of my Dad, his career, his family and his dedication to our nation, Nigeria.

My Dad My Dad was such a brilliant student, that he was nick-named 33/30 by his teachers.

He was blessed with loyal friends who fondly, called him “ROA” (Richard Osuolale Akinjide).

My father loved and devoted his life to my mother and his family. ROA’s passion for education, was extremely impactful in our lives. This encouraged us to succeed academically and in our careers, all over the world. Amongst us, we have a Professor, Graduates from Cambridge and Harvard. He was very proud that some of us followed in his footsteps, to become Lawyers. His dedication to his grandchildren was simply amazing, he continuously showered them with love.

Passage of an Icon Paul Usoro, SAN

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t was with great sadness that we received the news of the passage of Chief Richard O A Akinjide, SAN, President of the Nigerian Bar Association between 1979 and 1983.

The passage of Chief Akinjide, has robbed Nigeria of one of its icons. This is a loss not just to the legal profession, but a loss to Nigeria, as a nation, and it comes at a crucial time when strong and respected voices need to be heard in defence of our national ethos, such as the rule of law, democracy, Nigerian unity and oneness as a nation, respect for the fundamental rights of our people and much more.

A Man of Many Distinguished Parts Akinjide was a man of many distinguished parts, but first and foremost, he was a Lawyer, a most distinguished one at that, and it was to the legal profession that he remained most faithful and was most passionate, even as a politician. The legal profession was the platform on which Chief stood at all times, and it was the legal profession that showcased his talents and attributes and recommended him for other national assignments and services.

It was on that podium of the legal profession that Chief Akinjide was most comfortable and indeed, spent most of his adult life serving and defending the rule of law and justice.

Illustrative of this, is the fact that Chief Akinjide’s arguably most notable and distinguished political life was as the Honourable Attorney-General of the Federation (“HAGF”) and Minister of Justice in Nigeria’s Second Republic under President Shehu Shagari, a political office that then and up to date, has almost entirely the trappings of the legal profession.

It is also remarkable and noteworthy that, after an illustrious career as a politician and HAGF, Chief Akinjide returned to legal practice and literally remained active in practice, almost to his dying days. A number of distinguished politicians and political office holders of the Akinjide era, were of that mould. In that bracket belongs legal titans such as the late Chief F R A Williams, SAN and Mr. Kehinde Sofola, SAN both of blessed memory, who at some point in their lives and careers, held political offices but retired to full-time and very active legal practice thereafter, and remained faithful to the profession up to their death. Late Kehinde Sofola incidentally, was also HAGF and Minister of Justice in the second term of President Shehu Shagari. That generation of legal practitioners and public office holders, left a worthy example for today’s professionals who find themselves in public or political

offices. Extremely few of today’s political office holders return to legal practice or their respective professions, after political office.

It of course takes complete confidence in oneself and one’s capabilities, to turn ones back on political office and return to one’s primary profession. From that perspective, Chief Akinjide was a very confident and self-assured person. He knew that the profession made him renowned and created the pathway for his political successes, not the other way round. He therefore, remained true and faithful to his profession, no matter what political or public office he attained in life. We celebrate and commend his standards and fidelity to the profession to the politicians and public office holders of today, particularly our colleagues in public office.

Chief Akinjide was also generous with his time, intellect and experience. As the President of the Nigerian Bar Association, he was outstanding, most distinguished and very welcoming. He was also, at some point, the Chairman of the Body of Benchers, and until lately, never missed the meetings of the Body of Senior Advocates where he presided as the Chairman. I related closely with him during his time as the Chairman of BOSAN, and he was always approachable and willing to share his knowledge and wisdom with those of us who were his children’s age mates.

He mentored the young, unreservedly. The Nigerian Bar Association and indeed, the legal profession, will miss Chief Akinjide, but more so will Nigeria. To his immediate family, we offer our deepest condolences. Be assured that you are not alone in your grief; we grieve with you, but take solace in the man that Chief was. Farewell, Chief, and rest well.

Paul Usoro, SAN, President, NBA

He’ll be Sorely Missed Chief Bayo Ojo, SAN

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titan, dogged fighter and great leader of the Bar is gone. His place in the history of the legal profession in Nigeria is assured, as he contributed immensely to its development. He left his indelible footprints on the sands of time.

He will be sorely missed.

Chief Bayo Ojo, SAN, former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice

Dad’s Career My father’s career was exemplary. Few men in the history of Nigeria, have occupied so many commanding positions in their area of practice. My father was a legal titan, and a political lion. His legal and political exploits are well known, and well recognised in Nigeria and internationally. He risked his life multiple times, in his pursuit of a united and a prosperous Nigeria.

On behalf of the Akinjide family, I would like to thank all well-wishers for their love and support.

Lastly, I salute my Dad, ROA! I am grateful to God Almighty, that we are proud to have had an inspirational father like him. Over and above all considerations, I am grateful that my Dad was recon-

“FEW MEN IN THE HISTORY OF NIGERIA, HAVE OCCUPIED SO MANY COMMANDING POSITIONS IN THEIR AREA OF PRACTICE. MY FATHER WAS A LEGAL TITAN, AND A POLITICAL LION” ciled with God, and the peace of knowing that passes all understanding.

Rest in peace.

Abayomi Akinjide MA. LLM (CANTAB)

The Last of the Mohicans: Tribute to Richard Akinjide 1930-2020 Stephen Kola-Balogun

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hief Richard Osuolale Abimbola Akinjide CON, CFR, SAN who died on the 21st of April 2020 at at the ripe age of 89 years will forever be remembered as one of the most intriguing and accomplished Nigerians of Yoruba extraction. Although he was a frontline politician and legal luminary of repute, there are nevertheless, very few Statesmen whose careers courted so much embroilment in their lifetime and divided public opinion so sharply. To some, he was reviled for being the political protégée of the late Chief Samuel Akintola, the Post Independence Premier of the Western Region of Nigeria. Both men were kindred spirits of sorts in that they bore striking facial similarities, notably their thick and pronounced tribal marks, and although Akinjide rarely mentioned his political mentor by name after his death, perhaps due to expediency, he left no one in doubt particularly those dismayed Awoists of the opposing camp, that he was alive to fight and carry out the cause of his mentor from beyond the grave with invincible force. Then there were others (myself inclusive having served as his legal junior for over three years) who simply admired his legal genius, erudite mind, insatiable desire for knowledge and the fact that he was an oracle of wisdom, consistently linking the past with the present.

Early Beginnings and Introduction to Politics Richard Akinjide was born on the 4th of November 1930 in Ibadan, in today’s Oyo State. He attended St Peter’s School, Aremo, Ibadan from 1937-42 for his primary school education. Thereafter, he proceeded to Oduduwa College, Ile-Ife from 1943-49 for his secondary school education, where he passed his School Certificate with Grade 1. He travelled to the United Kingdom in 1952 for higher education, and studied law. He was called to the English Bar in 1956, and later, upon his return to Nigeria, he worked with the law firm SL Durosaro & Co for a short while, before he established his own law practice of Akinjide & Co. Akinjide also showed keen interest in writing, and wrote frequently for the West African Pilot and the Daily Times. Before long, he attracted the attention of Chief Adegoke Adelabu a.k.a. Penkelemesi who, at

the time, was the strong man of Ibadan politics. Adelabu recruited him into the National Council of Nigeria and the Cameroons (NCNC). In 1959, Akinjide stood for election into the Federal House of Representatives from the South East Constituency of his native Ibadan and won, thus at the age of 29 he became one of the country’s youngest Parliamentarians.

Post Independence Politics After independence, Akinjide started to get disillusioned with the NCNC. Adelabu had died in a car crash on his way back to Ibadan from Lagos in 1958, and his inspirational leadership was no more. Although, he was active in the Western Parliamentary Working Group of the Party, he soon noticed that many of the key positions at Federal level were being snapped up by the Igbo segment of the Party. After the Action Group crisis between Awolowo and Akintola in the early 1960s, Akintola desperately needed to recruit new, young and budding politicians to swell his ranks, particularly after most of his henchmen had abandoned him in favour of Awolowo. He moved in for those disgruntled Yoruba men in the NCNC, and found amongst them a most talented individual in Richard Akinjide. Before long, he made Richard Akinjide the General Secretary of his new Party, the Nigerian National Democratic Party (NNDP) and nominated him to represent the Party in Prime Minister Tafawa Balewa’s government at the Federal level, who in turn appointed him Federal Minister of Education in 1965.

Akinjide’s tenure as Federal Minister of Education was somewhat controversial from the onset in that he acted upon the prejudices that were of great concern to him while he was in the NCNC. To begin with, he reduced the number of scholarships being awarded to students of Igbo decent at the time and broadened its spread to include other ethnic groups, but, perhaps, the most controversial decision of his short stint as Federal Minister of Education before it was cut short by the military coup of 1966 centred on the inter- ethnic tensions that flared up at the University of Lagos. The Provincial Council of the University decided not to renew the term of Professor Eni Njoku, who was serving as the pioneer Vice Chancellor of the University. The Provincial Council had decided to back a candidate of Yoruba ethnicity, and Akinjide

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Chief Richard Osuolale Abimbola Akinjide CON, CFR, SAN

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28.04.2020

Tribute to a Legal Colossus Chief Wole Olanipekun, SAN

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he news of the passing of the eminent legal practitioner and foremost statesman, Chief R.O.A. Akinjide, SAN has just reached me.

On behalf of my family and Chambers, I convey my heartfelt sympathy and condolences to the entire members of the Akinjide family and dynasty.

Without any gainsaying, Chief Akinjide lived a full cycle, whether as a Lawyer, a politician, a scholar or statesman. He made a success, of every venture he embarked on.

The Lawyer As a Lawyer, he was very prodigious, forensic, profound, dynamic, courageous and seminal. He was among the second set of the early lawyers in Nigeria to be conferred with the prestigious rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria in 1978, alongside the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo, SAN and others. Before then, he had served as the President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), during the military era. He distinguished himself as one of the most outstanding Presidents of the NBA. Between 1979 and 1983, he served as the Attorney-General and Minister of Justice of Nigeria. At a point in time, he was also the Chairman of the Body of Benchers, while for several years, he was the Chairman of the Body of Senior of Advocates

of Nigeria (BOSAN). In effect, he assumed and occupied every available space and position in the legal profession, and in all of them, he creditably discharged himself.

The Politician As a politician, he was first a Federal Parliamentarian before assuming the office of Minister of Education in the First Republic, and he would be remembered as one of the youngest Federal Ministers ever produced in Nigeria.

The Statesman As a statesman, Chief Akinjide stoically pursued the clamour for a true federalism in Nigeria, both in his writings and public speeches, while at the same time, presenting himself as a father figure who cultivated friends across all divides.

That Chief Akinjide was a scholar of very high repute is beyond any shadow of doubt. He was prolific in his writings and highly cerebral in his submissions, in and out of court.

In company of our heroes past, particularly, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Dr. Nnmadi Azikiwe, Sir Ahmadu Bello and others, Chief Akinjide was in the forefront of the struggle for Nigeria’s independence in 1960. A titan has departed; a legal colossus and potentate has been called home; a highly distinguished statesman has gone to rest.

May the pleasant soul of this great mentor, leader and nationalist rest in peace.

Chief Wole Olanipekun, OFR, SAN, LL.D, FCIArb., FNIALS

A Quintessential, God Fearing Lawyer J.B. Daudu, SAN

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hief Richard Osuolale Akinjide SAN 1932- 2020 lived and died a quintessential, God fearing legal practitioner. He reached the apogee of the legal profession long before his contemporaries by taking silk, President of the Nigerian Bar Association 1970-1973 and Attorney-General of the Federation from 1979-1983. That he was brilliant and possessed an

uncanny capacity for unravelling fine or rare principles of law, is an understatement. A consummate litigator, and gifted advocate. The law reports are replete with his footprints, in the sands of our Noble Profession.

He will be sorely missed by the legal profession, and Nigeria as a country. May his soul rest in perfect peace.

I commiserate with his wife who is also a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, and his daughters Mobola (my call mate at the Law School), Jumoke and every member of their illustrious family. Nigeria has lost a legal icon.

J.B. Daudu, SAN, former President, NBA

Chief Richard Osuolale Abimbola Akinjide CON, CFR, SAN

His Passage Marks the End of an Era Olisa Agbakoba, SAN

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he passing of Chief Richard Akinjide marks the end of an era of one Nigeria’s legal giants and consummate politicians, perhaps, most famously remembered for his 12 2/3 analysis that controversially ushered President Shehu Shagari to power in 1979. Always very witty and super knowledgeable, I will miss him as my big Uncle and my thoughts are with his wife, Mrs Akinjide, SAN, who was long time Head of Chambers at FRA Williams.

Olisa Agbakoba, SAN, former President, NBA

THE LAST OF THE MOHICANS: TRIBUTE TO RICHARD AKINJIDE 1930-2020 CONTINUED FROM PAGE 5 wasted no time in appointing and confirming Professor Saburi Biobaku as the University’s new Vice Chancellor. Shortly after his appointment, the new Vice Chancellor was stabbed by a student radical called Kayode Adams who believed the appointment was unfair and ethnically motivated thereby leading many to question and scrutinise Akinjide’s rather hasty confirmatory appointment.

The 1966 Coup, its Aftermath and Legal Practice Soon after these tensions, the first military coup occurred on 15th of January 1966, and Akinjide was one of several politicians that were detained by the military authorities at the time. He spent about 18 months in detention in various prisons in the country, ranging from: Kirikiri, Ilesha, Ibadan and Abeokuta. Upon his eventual release, Akinjide decided to devote more of his time and energy to legal practice.

One of the most important cases he handled at the time, was as Counsel for the victims of the Asejire Dam Overflow in Ibadan. He succeeded in obtaining compensation for the victims, thereby enhancing his status as a formidable Lawyer.

Before long, Akinjide rose to become President of the Nigerian Bar Association, between 1970 -1972. Subsequently, between 1975-1976, he was amongst the 49 wisemen that made up the Constitution Drafting Committee, entrusted with preparing a new Constitution for the country in its transition to civil rule. He worked on the judicial aspect provisions sub-committee. In 1977, he also became a member of the Constituent Assembly, which consisted of elected and appointed officials tasked with examining and ratifying the draft 1979 Constitution. Still Akinjide was not yet done. In 1978, he was amongst 12 distinguished members of the Nigerian Bar who were elevated to the rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria. The 1978 batch of Senior Advocates was the second after that of 1975 which included Graham Nabo Douglas, the Attorney General of the Federation at the time and Chief Rotimi Alade William QC. The 1978 batch consisted of legal luminaries of distinction such as: Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Chief Remi Fani-Kayode, Chief G.OK Ajayi, Kehinde Sofola, Olisa Chukwura, and Professor Ben Nwabueze (who is now the new leader of the Bar following Akinjide’s death) but to mention a few.

The Second Republic In preparation for the Second Republic and the new political dispensation, Richard Akinjide joined the National Party of Nigeria (NPN) in 1978. A fellow Ibadan indigene by the name Chief Augustus Meredith Akinloye who was a Minister with the Action Group in the Western Region and who had later joined Akintola along with Akinjide in the NNDP, became the new Chairman of the Party. Together with Akinjide, they formed a formidable pairing within the Party. Akinjide decided to contest the gubernatorial election to become the Governor of Oyo State and he became

pitched against a formidable opponent in Chief Bola Ige, who emerged as the candidate for the Chief Awolowo led Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN). Both men were well known Lawyers, in the Ibadan Metropolis.

In Awolowo v Shagari many commentators felt a fraction should be rounded up to the nearest whole figure, but, as we learnt from Adegbenro v Akintola (Supra), it is for the Constitution to specifically state this fact.

12 2/3 Akinjide eventually lost the governorship election to Chief Bola Ige, but his party secured the highest number of votes in the 1979 Presidential election. The body presiding over the conduct of elections at the time was called the Federal Electoral Commission of Nigeria (FEDECO). Akinjide was already the legal adviser of the NPN. The 1979 presidential election got caught up, in a mathematical controversy. FEDECO announced that NPN had polled 5,688,857 votes while its closest rival, the UPN, polled 4,916,657 votes.

However, the 1979 Constitution provided that, in order to become President, a candidate had to secure at least 25% of the votes cast in 2/3 of the 19 States of the Federation. Alhaji Shehu Shagari had 25% in 12 States, but failed to secure 25% of the votes cast in all the other States.

Akinjide, perhaps mindful of the Privy Council case of Adegbenro v Akintola 1963 AC 614 was aware of the fact that, in deciding constitutional issues you could not impute any other but it’s clear meaning in interpreting the provisions of a written Constitution. Therefore, Akinjide argued that 2/3 of 19 States was not 13, but 12 2/3, and that all his client needed was to satisfy FEDECO that he had secured 25% of the votes in 2/3 of another State, which in this case happened to be Kano. In Kano, Shagari polled 243,423 votes- the equivalent of 19.4% of the 1,220,763 votes cast in total in the State. This amounted to 25% of the votes cast, in 2/3 of all the entire local governments of the State. As such, Akinjide was of the opinion that his client had satisfied the constitutional provisions to be declared President.nFEDECO agreed with this reasoning, and declared Shagari of the NPN elected President.mChief Awolowo disagreed, and took his case to the Election Tribunal, where he lost. He then appealed to the Court of Appeal, and lost.

Finally, the matter went to the Supreme Court where he lost yet again. A full panel of Supreme Court Justices heard the appeal, with only one Justice, Kayode Eso, dissenting. This time though, the Supreme Court verdict came with a caveat: THE JUDGEMENT SHOULD NOT BE CITED AS A PRECEDENT IN ANY COURT. Many commentators have argued that, the caveat was an indication that the Supreme Court knew that their verdict was wrong, but, I disagree. In my opinion, what the Supreme Court meant was that it was incumbent on the legislature in the form of the National Assembly to amend the Constitution to allow for certainty in the law, rather than quote their judgement as precedent in the future.

In Office as Attorney-General Richard Akinjide’s reward for this outstanding legal reasoning, was that he was appointed Attorney-General and Commissioner of Justice for the Federation (AGF). His tenure as AGF was steady, but still laced with controversy as we had come to expect from Akinjide. Under his watch, Nigeria temporarily abolished the execution of armed robbers. He also abolished a decree, barring exiles from returning to Nigeria.

However, the case of Minister of Internal Affairs v Shugaba Darma 1982 3 NCLR 915, was the one case that was perhaps, the most controversial, during his tenure as Nigeria’s Chief law officer. By the time the Shugaba case was decided by the Supreme Court, Akinjide had ceased to be AGF. When the Buhari led military coup eventually brought the affairs of the Second Republic to a close, many politicians were once again, reminiscent of the First Republic, rounded up and detained.

Akinjide mindful of his ordeal in the First Republic when he spent 18 months in detention, escaped to London and spent 11 years in self imposed exile in the UK. Aftermath of the Second Republic Akinjide spent his eleven year period of self exile in the UK, engaged in legal practice. He was first engaged at the United Nations in a consultancy role, working on International Conventions on the Law of the Sea. He also took advantage of the fact that he had qualified from the Inner Temple as a Barrister in the 1950s, to join a reputable tenancy at 10 Kings Bench Walk in the Chancery, Central London. While in Chamber he handled a series of cases ranging from criminal , civil, employment and tenancy matters. He also became a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators, and engaged himself in several commercial arbitrations.

By the time President Abacha came to power, a major boundary dispute had arisen between Nigeria and Cameroons over the Bakassi Peninsula. President Shagari was consulted by the Federal Government for advise on what to do, and he in turn referred them to the expertise of Richard Akinjide his erstwhile Attorney- General. Abacha made immediate contact with Akinjide in London, thereby setting the stage for his eventual return home in 1994. Akinjide handled the Bakassi dispute on behalf of Nigeria at the World Court, for several years. He also utilised his immense legal standing as a Lawyer at home and abroad,

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He Was a Consummate Bar Man Augustine Alegeh, SAN

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he news of the home call of the revered legal luminary and elder statesman, Chief Richard Akinjide, SAN on 21st April, 2020 at the age of 88 years was received with shock, but also with gratitude to God for the fulfilled life he lived. I commiserate with his immediate family on the loss of their Patriarch.

A life of Service to the Legal Profession Chief Richard Akinjide SAN lived a life of service to the legal profession, his community and his country, Nigeria. He was a brilliant Lawyer, astute Politician, and a respected Ibadan High Chief and community leader.

His foundation was the Law. He was called to the English Bar in 1955, and having established himself as a legal practitioner forayed into Politics on a part-time basis to enable him serve his people. He joined the Ibadan People’s Party (IPP). His Party went into an alliance with the Northern People’s Party (NPP) for the pre-independence election in 1959, and he won a Parliamentary seat to represent Ibadan. He was appointed by the Tafawa Balewa regime to serve as the Federal Minister for Education in the administration, and it remains to his credit that the University of Lagos was established under his watch as the Federal Minister for Education.

When the Military overthrew the Tafawa Balewa Regime in January, 1966, Chief Akinjide returned fully to his law practice, and by a combination of hard work, brilliance and industry became one of Nigeria’s leading Lawyers. Between 1970 and 1973, he served as the President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), and had a very successful tenure as President of NBA. In 1978, he took Silk (conferred with the prestigious rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria) in recognition of his stellar qualities as a Lawyer, and his selfless service to the Bar. He became a member of the National Party of Nigeria (NPN), upon the return of partisan politics in Nigeria. After the 1979 elections, he led the legal defence team of NPN and President

Chief Richard Osuolale Abimbola Akinjide CON, CFR, SAN

Shehu Shagari. His brilliance was again showcased, as his argument that 2/3 of 19 was 12 2/3 and not 13 as argued by UPN and Obafemi Awolowo, SAN (both Chief Akinjide and Chief Obafemi Awolowo were conferred with the rank of SAN on the same date) was upheld by the Supreme Court.

He was appointed as Honourable Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, and served in that position until the Shehu Shagari regime was overthrown by the Military in 1983.

After the December, 1983 truncation of his tenure as Honourable Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, he moved to the United Kingdom and established his Chambers in London and as expected, given his experience, doggedness

and brilliance, his practice in the United Kingdom flourished.

Chief Akinjide went on to serve as Chairman of the Body of Benchers and was the Chairman, Body of Senior Advocates of Nigeria (BOSAN) until his departure to be with God in heaven.

When the NBA introduced the Stamp and Seal Policy in 2015, during my tenure as President of the NBA, there was strong resistance from several members of the NBA, and BOSAN in particular. Chief Akinjide was instrumental to the amicable resolution, of the matter. I put a call through to him to explain and confirm the Stamp and Seal Policy thrust, and he offered his advice and assured me that the matter had been resolved.

He was very passionate about the affairs of the Bar. Chief Akinjide was a legal icon who was a father, mentor and role model for Lawyers, who themselves have become Senior Advocates of Nigeria and Judges of various Courts of record. He contributed immensely to legal jurisprudence and proffered solutions on various pressing national issues, and was passionate about our country Nigeria. He has left an indelible mark in the legal profession, and in our country Nigeria.

He was an epitome of humility, whose reputation and status as a legal colossus is widely acknowledged by all. He was a thoroughbred legal scholar of unparalleled accomplishments and distinction, a beacon of hope and excellence. His passion and hard work led him to become a great leader, with the ability to navigate different positions as a private and a public persona, all with finesse and grace.

Chief Akinjide, no doubt, was a brilliant advocate and a Bar leader who was very passionate about the ethics of the Bar. The impact of Chief Akinjide’s achievements will continue to be felt in the country at large, and in the legal profession in particular. He has left such indelible marks, on the sands of time. No doubt, we are blessed to have had Chief Richard Akinjide dot the lines of time, on this side of eternity. He will be greatly missed. I wish the departed legal icon a peaceful and deserved rest. I pray that God grants his family, the legal community and indeed, the country as a whole, the fortitude to bear this colossal loss.

Augustine Alegeh SAN, Life Bencher, Past President, NBA (2014 – 2016)

He Lived for the Law Femi Falana, SAN

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hief Richard Osuolale Akinjide was born in 1930 to an influential family in Ibadan, Oyo State. After his secondary education, he travelled to the UK in 1951, read Law at the University of London and was called to the the English Bar in 1955. Upon his return to Nigeria, Chief Akinjide was called to the local Bar in 1956. Even though he was much younger than the British and Nigerian Lawyers that dominated legal practice at the time, he quickly made his mark in forensic legal advocacy and became a force to reckoned with.

Politics Chief Akinjide was a bourgeois Lawyer, who passionately believed in the sustenance of the status quo. In his flourishing legal practice and foray into politics, he was the most consistent defender of the right wing faction of the Nigerian ruling class.

He joined the Ibadan Progressive Party founded by Chief Adisa Akinloye and Alhaji Adegoke Adelabu, which later fused into the National Council of Nigeria and Cameroon.

Chief Akinjide was elected a member of the House of Rep-

Mourning Chief Richard Akinjide Chief Mike Ozekhome, SAN

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join millions of Nigerians across the world to mourn Chief Richard Akinjide CFR, SAN, a legal colossus, quintessential jurisprudential theoretician, a very brilliant Constitutional lawyer and political titan.He was once at home with friends as he was with enemies.He drew legal and political punches and took same in equal or more measure.Nigerians will never forget his creative interpretation of the constitutional provision of 12 -2/3 in ushering in the government of Alhaji Shehu Shagari. I was with him at the 2014 National Conference where his vast intellect, gargantuan experience and deep knowledge of the law and politics easily played out.As Attorney General under Shagari, he ensured some relief to those sentenced to death by execution.He was a complete Bar man, astute political strategist, uncommon forensic Advocate. May his patriotic Nigerian soul rest in peace.

Chief Mike Ozekhome OFR, SAN

resentatives. In the First Republic, the Prime Minister, Tafawa Balewa appointed him the Minister of Education at the age of 29.

Notwithstanding his experience in the Ministry, Chief Akinjide was strenuously opposed to right of every child to access education at the expense of the State.

Following the coup of January 1966, Chief Akinjide was arrested and detained for 18 months, without trial. Upon his release from custody he returned to active legal practice.

The Agbekoyas In 1968, the Yakubu Gowon regime was finding it difficult to address the revolt of the Agbekoya Farmers Movement, in the old Western State. In desperation, the Gowon regime detained the Lawyer of the Agbekoyas, Alhaji Mojeed Agbaje. His Lawyer, Chief Akinjide filed a writ of habeas corpus for his release. Within 6 days the trial Judge, the late Dr. Akinola Aguda heard and determined the motion ex-parte for leave and the substantive motion, and delivered his judgement. Aided by the brilliant submissions of Chief Akinjide, the Judge ordered the release of the applicant.

Completely embarrassed by the judgement, the military regime appealed against it. But, the Western State Court of Appeal did not hesitate to uphold the judgement. From that moment, the case of Alhaji Mojeed Agbaje v Commissioner of Police became the locus classicus, and was relied upon by the various courts to set at liberty, persons who were detained without trial under preventive detention decrees by all military dictators.

Shortly thereafter, the military regime in the West wanted to make Chief Akinjide a Commissioner. Without consulting him, the appointment was announced on radio. Chief Akinjide turned down the appointment. The rejection of the appointment and his public spirited role in handling the Agbaje's case, endeared him to members of the Bar. He was elected the Chairman of the Ibadan Branch of the NBA 1969-1970 and became the President of the NBA 1970-1973.

Chief Akinjide was a member of the Constitution Drafting

Committee constituted by the Murtala Mohammed regime, to draft the 1979 Constitution. However, unlike the minority report co-authored by the two eminent historians in the Committee, Dr. Olusegun Osoba and Bala Usman, which had made a strong case for the enforcement of socio-economic rights of the Nigerian people, Chief Akinjide led the group that recommended that the Fundamental Objectives and Directive Principles of State Policy to be entrenched in the Constitution, be made non-justiciable.

The military Head of State, General Olusegun Obasanjo, who promulgated the 1979 Constitution, made sure that the entrenched fundamental objectives were devoid of justiciability.

In 1978, Chief Akinjide, Chief Obafemi Awolowo and others were conferred with the rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria.

As the governorship candidate of the National Party of Nigeria (NPN) in Oyo State in 1979 Chief Akinjide had cause to join issues with the candidate of the Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN), Chief Bola Ige, SAN on the free education programme of his political party in a television debate. In dismissing the programme, Chief Akinjide said that a similar policy implemented by the Obafemi Awolowo regime in the Western region in the 1950s, had produced armed robbers. In a rather caustic tone, Chief Ige had asked Chief Akinjide if the educated members of his family who had benefited from the programme were armed robbers.

Infuriated by the question, Chief Akinjide walked out of the programme when Chief Ige refused to retract the question and apologise to him.

12 2/3 Notwithstanding his involvement in the campaign, Chief Akinjide was the counsel to Alhaji Shehu Shagari of the NPN, when his election as President was challenged by Chief Awolowo, the presidential candidate of the UPN. The Presidential Election Petition Tribunal accepted Chief Akinjide's

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We have lost a Great Man Bolaji Ayorinde, SAN

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he death of our revered Chief Richard Osuolale Akinjide CFR, SAN, came as a rude shock to me, despite his passing at a ripe old age of 88.

Papa was a colossus in politics, an icon of the law, a most cultured person, a humanitarian and a very devoted father and grandfather.

My relationship with him dates back to my toddler years, he being a friend of my late father, the Honourable Justice Timothy Adebayo Ayorinde, formerly Chief Judge of Oyo State. As I grew up and after my own Father’s

passing, I developed a bond with Papa Akinjide and would spend quality time with him at his Idi Ishin residence in Ibadan and his Stanmore home in London. He shared with me, many insights into his life and politics, and his practice of law, his love for golf and his children and grandchildren. He was a positively proud Ibadan man and a Nigerianist, who, at a later stage of his life showed his preference for regional autonomy and parliamentary government.

We have lost a great man, and I have lost a mentor.

My condolences to Oloye Jumoke Akinjide, and the rest of her siblings.

Chief Bolaji Ayorinde OFR, SAN, FCArb

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28.04.2020

Covid-19 Lockdown: Group Condemns Security Agents’ Brutality, Extra Judicial Killings Stories By Akinwale Akintunde Avocats Sans Frontières France also known as Lawyers Without Borders France (ASF France), has condemned in strong terms the various reported brutality and extra judicial killings of civilians by security agents, in the course of enforcing the lockdown during COVID-19 outbreak across various States in Nigeria, and calls for prosecution of the perpetrators.

In a statement signed by ASF

France Head of Office Nigeria, Angela Uwandu, the ASF France stated that, it sees the action of security agents as reported by the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) of having killed 18 citizens in the first 14 days of the enforcement of the lockdown regulations on the Covid-19 pandemic as totally unacceptable, and a direct disregard of their role as protectors of the society. A figure that has since risen, in the past few days.

While reiterating its earlier call on security agencies to exercise decorum

and respect human rights in the discharge of their duty in maintaining law and order while enforcing the lockdown, the group stated that, the brutality and extra judicial killings carried out by security agents in this context, is a violation of international human rights.

According to ASF, it is disheartening that the brutality of security agencies in the course of enforcing the COVID-19 lockdown, has resulted in more deaths than the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We condemn the flagrant abuse and excessive use of force by security agencies during enforcement of the lockdown leading to several human rights abuses by security agencies such as the alleged 33 incidents of torture, 27 incidents of violation of right to freedom of movement, and unlawful arrests, 19 incidents of seizure of properties and 13 incidents of extortion”, said Uwandu.

“The impunity and spate of abuse shows the disregard by security agencies of human rights while dealing with Inspector General of Police, Mohammed Adamu

Lockdown Violation: Police Release ‘Jehovah Sharp Sharp’ Archbishop The Police has freed the presiding cleric of Resurrection Praise Chapel, a.k.a. “Jehovah Sharp-Sharp”, Archbishop Samson Mustapha Benjamin.

The State Criminal Investigation and Intelligence Department (SCIID), Yaba, released Benjamin following a N1 million bail granted to him by Chief Magistrate Yewande Oshin of a Lagos State Magistrates' Court, sitting in Igbosere on April 22.

Magistrate Oshin had remanded the Defendant in the SCIID's custody, after he pleaded not guilty to a three-count lockdown violation related charge.

The charged, filed against him by the Lagos State Government, accused

the cleric and two others of “failure to stay at home contrary to Covid-19 Regulations” and “conduct likely to cause breach of peace”.

Magistrate Oshin granted Benjamin N1 million bail, and remanded him pending fulfillment of the terms.

His co-defendants, Jerry Abel and Johnson Benjamin (1st and 3rd Defendants respectively) were each granted N500,000 bail.

The cleric perfected his bail conditions, and was freed at the Igbosere Magistrates' Court.

According to the information filed by the prosecution, the cleric allegedly led about 100 persons to the Chinese

Embassy in Victoria Island, to protest the alleged ill-treatment of Nigerians in China.

Archbishop Benjamin was said to have condemned the alleged maltreatment of Nigerians in China by the Chinese, despite operating freely in Nigeria.

The Embassy officials sent a video clip of the alleged invasion to the Police, which led to his arrest.

However, Counsel to the Archbishop, Emmanuel Ik Omeje, while speaking to journalists after the proceedings, said he knows justice would be done because his client only went to Lagos to distribute palliatives to needy Nigerians

to cushion the effects of the Covid-19 lockdown and thereafter, stopped over at the Chinese Embassy to lodge a complaint about inhuman treatment meted out to Nigerians in China.

"It was a One-Man protest in front of the Chinese Embassy, on the Nigerian side of the street.

"It was borne out of his compassion with regard to the plight of our citizens, who are currently facing persecution in China. But, the Nigeria Police Force, arrested him for contravening the Covid-19 statutory regulations.

"He was consequently arraigned and after pleading not guilty to the charges, he was granted bail", he said.

citizens, and on that note, we at ASF France remain committed to assisting victims of human rights abuses and their families seek justice”, she added.

ASF France urged the general public to call its hotline: +234 701 061 9353, to report cases of human rights violations by security agencies during this lockdown. We can also be reached by email on: communication.nigeria@ avocatssansfrontieres-france.org. ASF France is active in Edo, Enugu, Imo, Kaduna and Lagos States.

The SAFE and ProCAT projects are funded by the European Union, Agence Française de développement and the UN Voluntary Funds for Victims of Torture respectively, to address core human rights violations by security agencies in Nigeria.

HE LIVED FOR THE LAW CONTINUED FROM PAGE 7 submission on the mathematical interpretation of 2/3 of 19 States.

The appeal filed against the judgement, was dismissed by the majority of the Justices of the Supreme Court. But, Eso JSC and Obaseki JSC, were ad idem on the legal interpretation of 2/3 of 19 States. It was the view of the two Justices, that the winner of the presidential election was required to win 13 States, as a State could not be fractionalised in law.

To that extent, both Justices disagreed with the decision of the five other Justices who had accepted Akinjide's queer fractionalisation of the 13th State, to arrive at 2/3 of 19 States. So, both Eso JSC and Obaseki JSC dissented on that point.

However, the two Justices parted ways in their conclusion, when Obaseki JSC turned round to dismiss Awolowo's appeal, on the ground that "the election to the office of the President was conducted substantially in accordance with the provisions of Section 34A(1)(c)(ii) which is within Part II of the Decree." At the end of the day, it was only Eso JSC who upheld Awolowo's appeal, while the six others including Obaseki JSC, dismissed it.

Attorney-General of the Federation Even though Chief Akinjide lost the governorship election in Oyo State to Chief Ige, President Shehu Shagari appointed him the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice.

In that capacity, Akinjide appeared in all constitutional cases of major importance, in which the federal government was a party.

Shugaba’s Case A review of the cases revealed Chief Akinjide's unwavering commitment, to use the law to consolidate the hegemony of the

ruling class. In particular, under his watch the Federal Ministry of Justice deployed the law, to wage a relentless war against the opposition. Thus, based on political disagreements between the NPN and the Great Nigeria People's Party, the Federal Government deported Alhaji Dopman Shugaba, the then majority leader of the Borno State House of Assembly to Chad, alleging that he was a Chadian, and not a Nigerian.

However, on the instructions of Alhaji Shugaba, a fundamental rights action challenging his deportation was filed at the High Court in Maiduguri, Borno State by Chief GOK Ajayi, SAN. In spite of the stout defence of the action of the Federal Government by Chief Akinjide, SAN, the presiding Judge, Oguntoye J. declared the deportation illegal and unconstitutional. The court awarded N500,000 in favour of the Applicant, and ordered that he be brought back to Nigeria. The appeal filed by Chief Akinjide against the judgement was dismissed by the Court of Appeal, even though the damages were slashed to N50,000.

Gani For daring to popularise legal practice through the regular publication of law reports in the country, the powerful legal establishment decided to derobe Chief Gani Fawehinmi. There was an announcement made by the Nigerian Law Publication to the effect that, the Nigerian Constitutional Law Report was published by "the controversial Nigerian Lawyer", in a complimentary reference to Gani. That was all the Attorney- General, who doubled as the Chairman of the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee needed, to issue a query which directed Chief Fawehinmi to justify within 14 days why he should not be disciplined for touting and

THE LAST OF THE MOHICANS: TRIBUTE TO RICHARD AKINJIDE 1930-2020 CONTINUED FROM PAGE 6 to rebuild his legal practice, which done before long.

As Akinjide matured in years, he continued to contribute his fair quota to the National debate. He was a member of the Patriots, a body of grandee Statesmen made up of the likes of the late Chief Rotimi Williams, SAN and Professor Ben Nwabueze, SAN, but to mention a few. Their aim was to actualise, a restructured Nigeria. Akinjide actively participated in the National Conference deliberations of 2014 set up by President Goodluck Jonathan.

Final Eulogy Richard Akinjide lived an accomplished life, full of beguile and intrigue. He was revered by friends and foe alike, as both a political titan and a legal colossus. He was in fact a simple man who was introspective and loved the basic things of life, such as reading and writing. Above all, he ran a quiet and peaceful home, with his wife and children. Up until the time of his death, he was always involved in the national debate, trying to shape a right and proper course for Nigeria.

Some have argued that, in his later years, he began to back track from his early views, and was attempting to put right his historical wrongs. I firmly disagree. Richard Akinjide merely saw politics as a means to an end, as an opportunity to be seen and

heard like a performer on stage. He realised early enough that, you had to choose which play you wanted to feature in. Initially, he chose the NCNC because of his affiliation to Adelabu, but tribal and ethnic concerns made him form the view, either rightly or wrongly, that the North could provide an easier platform to get onto the centre stage he craved. Having secured his place on that stage, he became a star performer featuring in many leading roles for well over six decades, eventually maturing along the way like that great old grandee of British Theatre, Laurence Olivier.

He was indeed, the last of the Mohicans, in that, I doubt whether there is any other active participant on the political stage, that can accurately thread the past through to the present.

Richard Akinjide would have known that I was always going to write him a final tribute despite some later indifference between us, and just like he upheld the memory of his mentor, I hope I have also managed to honour his own memory with invincible aplomb.

Adieu ROA and Requiescat in Pace.

Stephen Kola-Balogun, Legal Practitioner, Lagos (Forever and proudly one of your loyal Juniors)

advertising himself.

Curiously, three days later, Chief Fawehimi was summoned to appear before the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee. Convinced that his right to fair hearing was under serious threat, Chief Fawehinmi rushed to the Lagos High Court for legal intervention to save his wig and gown.

The trial judge, Ademola Candide J. (as he then was) declared the action of the Attorney-General illegal and unconstitutional, on grounds of likelihood of bias. Totally dissatisfied with the decision, Chief Akinjide appealed to the Federal Court of Appeal which affirmed the judgement of the lower court. The matter was further pursued up to the Supreme Court, but it was equally resolved in favour of Chief Fawehinmi. Eso JSC put the plight of Chief Fawehinmi admirably well when he said that: "This was a case of come for your assured judgement." In his contribution to the epochal judgement, Chukwudifu Oputa JSC pointed out that, the law required an urgent amendment, as the Attorney-General was the accuser, prosecutor, witness and judge at the same time.

Journalists The Federal Government did not hide its deep seated hatred for the media for exposing the brazen corrupt practices, electoral malfeasance, and other acts of impunity of the ruling party. In a desperate move to cow the media into submission, the office of the Attorney-General decided to make an example of a few journalists. On two occasions, Dele Giwa was charged with contraventions of the Official Secrets Act at the Federal High Court. On both occasions, the defence counsel, Chief Fawehinmi, raised a preliminary objection which questioned the jurisdiction of the court to hear and determine the cases. In a rather mature approach, both charges were terminated by Chief Akinjide, SAN who filed nolle prosequi.

No doubt, Chief Akinjide subscribed to the capitalist mode of development, he was a patriot who was highly critical of the exploitation of the nation's resources by the British colonial regime.

The anti-imperialist tone was undisguised, in his well-informed arguments on the Nigerian political economy. He was equally opposed to the privatisation policy, of the Olusegun Obasanjo administration. In one of our encounters at the Federal High Court, I had cause to commend his progressive position on the matter. But, the witty Chief quickly said, "The public officers involved in the sale of public assets, are behaving like prodigal sons. But, mind you, I am not a socialist like you!".

Unlike some Attorneys-General who boycotted the courts, Chief Akinjide ensured that he appeared personally to conduct trials and defend all constitutional cases, in line with the practice in established democracies. Thus, on account of his powerful submissions in those cases, he contributed his quota to the development of bourgeois constitutional development in the country.

Chief Akinjide, SAN was a thorough bred legal practitioner and a gentleman par excellence. His knowledge of law and economics, was deep. He was industrious, audacious and sagacious. The Learned Silk was a decent and dedicated Lawyer, who was never associated with corrupt practices or influence peddling to win his cases.

Femi Falana, SAN, award winning Human Rights Lawyer

16

TUEESDAY, APRIL 28, 2020 ˾ T H I S D AY

MARKET NEWS

Ardova Moves to Minimise Impact of COVID-19 on Operations Goddy Egene

that emerge at the end of the crisis. three areas: safeguarding their In a message to the capital market people and customers; empowering Ardova Plc has designed a community, the Chief Executive our communities to fight the disease; business continuity and programme to minimise the impact Officer of Adrova Plc, Mr. Olumide and of the COVID-19 pandemic on its Adeosun, said following the spread delivering customer needs.

In the area of safeguarding people, operations, assuring stakeholders it of COVID-19 pandemic in Nigeria, will be ready to face the challenges the company introduced efforts in he said:”As soon as news of the A Mutual fund (Unit Trust) is an investment floor of the Nigerian Stock Exchange. vehicle managed by a SEC (Securities and A REIT (Real Estate Investment Trust) is an Exchange Commission) registered Fund Manager. investment vehicle that allows both small and Investors with similar objectives buy units of the large investors to part-own real estate ventures (eg.

Fund so that the Fund Manager can buy securities Offices, Houses, Hospitals) in proportion to their that willl generate their desired return. investments. The assets are divided into shares that An ETF (Exchange Traded Fund) is a type are traded on the Nigerian Stock Exchange. of fund which owns the assets (shares of stock, bonds, oil futures, gold bars, foreign currency, GUIDE TO DATA: etc.) and divides ownership of those assets into Date: All fund prices are quoted in Naira as at 24shares. Investors can buy these ‘shares’ on the Apr-2020, unless otherwise stated.

global spread of the disease was He said Ardova has been communicated, we immediately empowering the communities by took pre-emptive measures of donating N50 million to the Nigerian ensuring thermal scanning and National Petroleum Corporation’s escalated hygiene practices for all (NNPC) collective industry fund, via employees, visitors and customers the Major Oil Marketers Association at all our operational locations.” of Nigeria (MOMAN).

Offer price: The price at which units of a trust or ETF are bought by investors.

Bid Price: The price at which Investors redeem (sell) units of a trust or ETF. Yield/Total Return: Denotes the total return an investor would have earned on his investment. Money Market Funds report Yield while others report Year- to-date Total Return.

NAV: Is value per share of the real estate assets held by a REIT on a specific date.

According to him, at t present, all non-operational employees of the company are working from their homes, in observance of the social distancing measures required to curb the spread of this pandemic.

DAILY PRICE LIST FOR MUTUAL FUNDS, REITS and ETFS MUTUAL FUNDS / UNIT TRUSTS AFRINVEST ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD aaml@afrinvest.com Web: www.afrinvest.com; Tel: +234 818 885 6757 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Afrinvest Equity Fund 107.12 110.64 -26.86% Afrinvest Plutus Fund 100.00 100.00 3.97% Nigeria International Debt Fund 311.67 311.67 -0.34% ALTERNATIVE CAPITAL PARTNERS LTD info@acapng.com Web: www.acapng.com, Tel: +234 1 291 2406, +234 1 291 2868 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn ACAP Canary Growth Fund N/A N/A N/A ACAP Income Funds N/A N/A N/A AIICO CAPITAL LTD ammf@aiicocapital.com Web: www.aiicocapital.com, Tel: +234-1-2792974 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn AIICO Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 6.82% AIICO Balanced Fund 2.56 2.61 3.90% info@anchoriaam.com ANCHORIA ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED Web:www.anchoriaam.com, Tel: 08166830267; 08036814510; 08028419180 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Anchoria Money Market 100.00 100.00 6.62% Anchoria Equity Fund 89.53 89.82 -13.85% Anchoria Fixed Income Fund 1.19 1.19 4.20% ARM INVESTMENT MANAGERS LTD enquiries@arminvestmentcenter.com Web: www.arm.com.ng; Tel: 0700 CALLARM (0700 225 5276) Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn ARM Aggressive Growth Fund 13.12 13.52 -14.32% ARM Discovery Fund 316.85 326.41 -8.27% ARM Ethical Fund 26.84 27.65 -7.69% ARM Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 5.92% AXA MANSARD INVESTMENTS LIMITED investmentcare@axamansard.com Web: www.axamansard.com; Tel: +2341-4488482 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn AXA Mansard Equity Income Fund 89.01 89.64 -7.35% AXA Mansard Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 5.46% CAPITAL EXPRESS ASSET AND TRUST LIMITED info@capitalexpressassetandtrust.com Web: www.capitalexpressassetandtrust.com ; Tel: +234 803 307 5048 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn CEAT Fixed Income Fund N/A N/A N/A CHAPELHILL DENHAM MANAGEMENT LTD investmentmanagement@chapelhilldenham.com Web: www.chapelhilldenham.com, Tel: +234 461 0691 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Chapelhill Denham Money Market Fund 0.07 0.05 6.78% Paramount Equity Fund 10.10 10.29 -19.28% Women's Investment Fund 104.35 104.95 -5.64% CORDROS ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED assetmgtteam@cordros.com Web: www.cordros.com, Tel: 019036947 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Cordros Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 6.17% Cordros Milestone Fund 2023 95.18 95.51 Cordros Milestone Fund 2028 102.79 103.17 CORONATION ASSEST MANAGEMENT investment@coronationam.com Web:www.coronationam.com , Tel: 012366215 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Coronation Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 4.53% Coronation Balanced Fund 0.86 0.86 -7.71% Coronation Fixed Income Fund 1.41 1.41 6.25% EDC FUNDS MANAGEMENT LIMITED mutualfundng@ecobank.com Web: www.ecobank.com Tel: 012265281 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn EDC Nigeria Money Market Fund Class A N/A N/A N/A EDC Nigeria Money Market Fund Class B N/A N/A N/A EDC Nigeria Fixed Income Fund N/A N/A N/A FBNQUEST ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD invest@fbnquest.com Web: www.fbnquest.com/asset-management; Tel: +234-81 0082 0082 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn FBN Fixed Income Fund 1,356.01 1,359.05 5.03% FBN Balanced Fund N/A N/A N/A FBN Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 5.50% FBN Nigeria Eurobond (USD) Fund - Institutional 107.93 108.89 -9.49% FBN Nigeria Eurobond (USD) Fund - Retail 108.47 109.43 -9.48% FBN Nigeria Smart Beta Equity Fund 107.73 109.00 -17.21% FCMB ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED fcmbamhelpdesk@fcmb.com Web: www.fcmbassetmanagement.com; Tel: +234 1 462 2596 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Legacy Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 6.50% Legacy Debt Fund 3.74 3.74 2.26% Legacy Equity Fund 0.98 1.00 -13.15% Legacy USD Bond Fund 1.10 1.10 1.46% FSDH ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD coralfunds@fsdhgroup.com Web: www.fsdhaml.com; Tel: 01-270 4884-5; 01-280 9740-1 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Coral Growth Fund 2,898.66 2,928.31 -2.85% Coral Income Fund 3,152.28 3,152.28 14.99% FSDH Treasury Bills Fund 100.00 100.00 6.19% GREENWICH ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED assetmanagement@gtlgroup.com Web: www.gtlgroup.com ; Tel: +234 1 4619261-2 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Greenwich Plus Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 4.86% Nigeria Entertainment Fund 116.54 116.97 8.38%

GROWTH & DEVELOPMENT ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED assetmanagement@gdl.com.ng Web: www.gdl.com.ng ; Tel: +234 9055691122 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn GDL Money Market Fund N/A N/A N/A INVESTMENT ONE FUNDS MANAGEMENT LTD enquiries@investment-one.com Web: www.investment-one.com; Tel: +234 812 992 1045,+234 1 448 8888 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Abacus Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 5.31% Vantage Balanced Fund 2.08 2.12 -5.05% Vantage Guaranteed Income Fund 1.00 1.00 11.04% Kedari Investment Fund (KIF) 140.73 141.24 -1.88% LOTUS CAPITAL LTD fincon@lotuscapitallimited.com Web: www.lotuscapitallimited.com; Tel: +234 1-291 4626 / +234 1-291 4624 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Lotus Halal Investment Fund 1.16 1.18 -0.57% Lotus Halal Fixed Income Fund 1,116.41 1,116.41 3.59% MERISTEM WEALTH MANAGEMENT LTD info@meristemwealth.com Web: http://www.meristemwealth.com/funds/ ; Tel: +234 1-4488260 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Meristem Equity Market Fund 7.62 7.64 -22.50% Meristem Money Market Fund 10.00 10.00 4.51% PAC ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD info@pacassetmanagement.com Web: www.pacassetmanagement.com/mutualfunds; Tel: +234 1 271 8632 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn PACAM Balanced Fund 1.31 1.33 7.78% PACAM Fixed Income Fund 11.52 11.56 2.51% PACAM Money Market Fund 10.00 10.00 3.92% PACAM Equity Fund 0.96 0.96 PACAM EuroBond Fund 86.36 88.46 SCM CAPITAL LIMITED info@scmcapitalng.com Web: www.scmcapitalng.com; Tel: +234 1-280 2226,+234 1- 280 2227 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn SCM Capital Frontier Fund 101.07 102.97 -7.83% SFS CAPITAL NIGERIA LTD investments@sfsnigeria.com Web: www.sfsnigeria.com, Tel: +234 (01) 2801400 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn SFS Fixed Income Fund 1.00 1.00 3.11% STANBIC IBTC ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD assetmanagement@stanbicibtc.com Web: www.stanbicibtcassetmanagement.com; Tel: +234 1 280 1266; 0700 MUTUALFUNDS Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Stanbic IBTC Balanced Fund 2,521.35 2,532.80 -2.20% Stanbic IBTC Bond Fund 210.33 210.33 2.32% Stanbic IBTC Ethical Fund 0.88 0.89 -10.67% Stanbic IBTC Guaranteed Investment Fund 273.87 273.95 2.53% Stanbic IBTC Iman Fund 154.92 156.64 -8.06% Stanbic IBTC Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 5.56% Stanbic IBTC Nigerian Equity Fund 7,674.15 7,756.30 -10.45% Stanbic IBTC Dollar Fund (USD) 1.16 1.16 1.80% Stanbic IBTC Shariah Fixed Income Fund 118.18 118.18 0.00% UNITED CAPITAL ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD Web: www.unitedcapitalplcgroup.com; Tel: +234 803 306 2887 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn United Capital Balanced Fund 1.07 1.09 -11.03% United Capital Bond Fund 1.79 1.79 3.20% United Capital Equity Fund 0.58 0.60 -17.40% United Capital Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 7.46% United Capital Eurobond Fund 114.23 114.23 2.13% United Capital Wealth for Women Fund 1.04 1.04 -4.84% QUANTUM ZENITH ASSET MANAGEMENT & INVESTMENTS LTD service@quantumzenithasset.com.ng Web: www.quantumzenith.com.ng; Tel: +234 1-2784219 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Zenith Equity Fund 9.55 9.67 -7.07% Zenith Ethical Fund 11.28 11.39 -2.91% Zenith Income Fund 23.36 23.36 5.06% Zenith Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 4.45%

REITS NAV Per Share

Yield / T-Rtn

3.10 113.96 52.75

-67.85% 1.81% 1.34%

Bid Price

Offer Price

Yield / T-Rtn

7.55 78.86 60.24

7.65 80.51 61.34

-13.23% -14.74% -18.30%

Fund Name FSDH UPDC Real Estate Investment Fund SFS Skye Shelter Fund Union Homes REIT

EXCHANGE TRADED FUNDS Fund Name Lotus Halal Equity Exchange Traded Fund SIAML Pension ETF 40 Stanbic IBTC ETF 30 Fund

VETIVA FUND MANAGERS LTD Web: www.vetiva.com; Tel: +234 1 453 0697 Fund Name Vetiva Banking Exchange Traded Fund Vetiva Consumer Goods Exchange Traded Fund Vetiva Griffin 30 Exchange Traded Fund Vetiva Industrial Goods Exchange Traded Fund Vetiva S&P Nigeria Sovereign Bond Exchange Traded Fund

funds@vetiva.com Bid Price

Offer Price

Yield / T-Rtn

2.60 3.72 10.38 10.07 177.01

2.64 3.80 10.48 10.27 179.01

-26.74% -36.73% -14.06% -3.02% -5.68%

NAV Per Share

Yield / T-Rtn

108.29

16.90%

INFRASTRUCTURE FUND Fund Name Chapel Hill Denham Nigeria Infrastructure Debt Fund

The value of investments and the income from them may fall as well as rise. Past performance is a guide and not an indication of future returns. Fund prices published in this edition are also available on each fund manager’s website and FMAN’s website at www.fman.com.ng. Fund prices are supplied by the operator of the relevant fund and are published for information purposes only.

17

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Quick Takes DBN Supports COVID-19 Fight

CLOSING GONG CEREMONY

L-R:Head,MarketingandCorporateCommunicationsGroup,CornerstoneInsurancePlc,CodiliaEkeocha;ExecutiveDirector,Technical/Operations,Toks Bello;GroupManagingDirector/CEO,GaniyuMusa;Head,ListingBusinessDivision,NigerianStockExchange(NSE),OlumideBolumole;Head,Central ClaimsGroupandSpecialRisksUnderwriting,CornerstoneInsurance,OlufunmilayoJ.Amanwa;andGroupHead,Strategy,InvestorRelationsand EnterpriseRiskMgt.AdewaleFoster-Aileru,during theCornerstoneclosinggongheldattheNSEinLagos‌recently SUNDAYADIGUN

Discos Flout NERC’s Payment Order Chineme Okafor in Abuja A total of 11 electricity distribution companies (Discos) flouted the minimum revenue remittance order given to them by the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) in the first two months of 2020.

The revenue remittance records obtained by THISDAY from the Nigerian Bulk Electricity Trading Plc (NBET) indicated that within the months of January and February, the Discos failed to fulfil NERC’s obligatory 36 per cent average monthly remittance limit but instead did 29 and 25 per cent respectively.

The Discos, according to the NBET records were billed monthly invoices of N52 billion for the two months and expected to pay at least, 36 per cent, but they ended up paying N14.9 billion and N13 billion respectively for January

ENERGY and February, thereby leaving a shortfall of N76.1 billion.

In its review of the Multi Year Tariff Order (MYTO) – a framework that works out the electricity tariffs of the Discos - last year, the NERC disclosed that application of the new tariffs for the Discos would be dependent on them fulfilling a minimum revenue remittance to the industry.

The regulator approved for the Abuja Disco a minimum remittance level of 42 per cent, 36 per cent for Benin, 43 per cent for Eko, 50 per cent for Enugu, 28 per cent for Ibadan and 49 per cent for Ikeja.

It also required the Jos Disco to pay at least nine per cent of its monthly invoices to the sector, while asking Kaduna to remit 29 per cent, Kano – 38 per cent, Port Harcourt – 28 per cent and Yola – 12 per cent.

However, the Discos averagely failed to abide by the regulator’s order even though the regulator said such failures would attract regulatory penalties. No regulatory action has so far been announced by the NERC in this regards.

According to the NBET record, Abuja in January remitted 40 per cent which was N2,545,110,302.66 of its N6,408,710,702.37 invoice to the bulk trader; Benin remitted N1,233,639,049.49 being 27 per cent of its N4,620,386,842.09 invoice; Eko paid N2,520,767,405.84 or 41 per cent of its N6,105,564,534.88 invoice; and Enugu paid 23 per cent or N1,056,000,000.00 of the N4,522,446,652.62 that was sent to it.

Similarly, Ibadan out of the N7,216,883,547.33 invoice it generated was only able to pay N2,008,166,828.93 or 28 per cent in January; while 3,579,395,388.01 (46 per cent) of Ikeja’s

N7,774,741,456.85 was settled. Jos however N242,736,886.51 of the N2,686,813,393.83 invoice it got thereby fulfilling its nine per cent remittance obligation in January while Kaduna which raked up a bill of N3,572,085,698.37 could settle only nine per cent of its value - N303,806,545.75.

Kano got N3,728,706,286.44 and paid only N700,000,000.00 or 19 per cent, Port Harcourt got N3,586,137,248.51 but paid N772,387,385.68 or 22 per cent while Yola which got a bill of N1,912,112,125.91 paid nothing to the NBET. Yola Disco is under the management of the federal government after it was returned by its core investor over a force majeure.

In February, the situation did not improve as the Abuja, Benin, Eko, Enugu, Ibadan and Ikeja remitted N2,402,121,570.25 (37 per cent), N1,315,336,489.70 (28 Continued on page 24

Mupwaya: Proposed Two-month Free Power Supply Not Finalised Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja The Managing Director of the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC), Ernest Mupwaya, has said the proposal to supply free electricity to Nigerians as part of the federal government’s efforts to cushion the impact of the COVID-19, has not been finalised.

The National Assembly had raised the possibility of allowing Nigerians, especially the vulnerable, enjoy power supply for 60 days, which will be bankrolled by the federal government.

Mupwaya, who spoke during an online meeting of regional general managers, experts and members of the executive management team to

ENERGY assess the company’s operations during the current covid-19 pandemic, noted that there was no agreement yet on how the programme would be implemented.

He emphasised that the issue was still a proposal and that discussions about it was still on going.

The MD stressed that the AEDC was prepared to implement the proposal once it is approved and the implementation modalities are released.

While describing the current situation as an unusual one, which is not peculiar to the company, he explained that the

AEDC was taking proactive measures to curtail the negative effect of the pandemic on its operations. “This is a global issue, which the global community is working round the clock to resolve very quickly. At the local level, we had thought the lockdown will be for two weeks but the reality on ground has called for an extension, which Mr. President has rightly done. “From all indications, a new way of doing business will certainly emerge in the post covid-19 period� he said.

Mupwaya, projected that while some businesses may go under with the pandemic, he was optimistic that the AEDC would come out stronger and better because of the strategies

the company was putting in place as events unfold during and after the pandemic.

He commended the staff of the company for what he described as their commitment to service delivery despite the glaring challenges of the current lockdown. “I am aware of the commitment of our people on the field and how they have been putting in extra efforts to ensure that customers have supply. This is the least we can do for our customers at a time like this. “Management will continue to provide the necessary logistics for further service delivery to our customers� he added.

Continued on page 24

TheDevelopmentBankofNigeriaPlc(DBN)hasannouncedadonation of N100 million towards the ďŹ ght against the COVID-19 pandemic.

ManagingDirectorandChiefExecutiveoftheBank,TonyOkpanachi, who announced the donation, said it was a demonstration of the Bank’s commitment to the ďŹ ght against the pandemic.

While acknowledging the eort of the federal government, a statement quoted him to have said: “I wish to express the Bank’s profound appreciation for the measures introduced by the federal government and the initiatives of mobilising resources towards controlling the spread of the disease in Nigeria. The donation is borne out of our sincere concern and commitment towards curtailing the spread of the deadly COVID-19 and ďŹ nding a lasting solution to the pandemic.â€?

Okpanachi, described the federal government’s invitation to all Nigerians to support the ďŹ ght against the pandemic as a clarion call that must be heeded for a better Nigeria.

Accordingtohim,“theďŹ ghtagainstthecoronavirusdiseaseisindeed a ďŹ ght for all of humanity and we must heed the clarion call to come together and demonstrate our commitment towards eradicating the deadly pandemic for a better, safer and more resilient Nigeria.â€?

While expressing optimism for a quick and successful eradication of the disease, not only in Nigeria, but in the world at large, the DBN boss prayed for all those who, in one way or the other, have been aected by the pandemic.

StanChart Oers Payment Holiday

StandardCharteredGroupsaiditremainscommittedtosupporting its clients in communities which it operates, both through the current pandemic crisis and the longer-term support and renewal phase.

The bank disclosed this in a statement.

It noted that given the underlying resilience of the Group, the bank has positioned itself to help clients through the implementation of several measures to provide relief. Speaking on the relief measures in Nigeria, the CEO, Standard Chartered Bank in Nigeria, Lamin Manjang, said: ‘‘We have put in place this comprehensive support scheme for retail and business customers, which covers loan repayment holidays.

We have done this because our relationship with clients is built on trust and commitment. Our customers have trusted us to grow their investments over the years and for us providing the ďŹ nancial relief is just one of the many ways we continue to reiterate our dedication to them that we are truly here for good.â€?

The ďŹ nancial institution explained that some of the measures it had put in place include a three-month payment holiday on Personal Loans andRetailMortgages(includingBusinessMortgages);intermsofcredit cards, clients who currently pay the total amount due on their credit card monthly, can now request to change this to a monthly payment of the minimum amount that is due on the card which is one per cent of the outstanding balance plus interest (subject to a minimum of NGN5,000), among others.

CIIN Harps on Safety

ThePresidentoftheCharteredInsuranceInstituteofNigeria(CIBN), Mr.EddieEfekoha,andtheDirector-GeneraloftheInstitute,Mr.Richard Borokini,havecalledforjointeortbyindustrystakeholderstosupport the ďŹ ght against the COVID-19.

In a message to insurance industry stakeholders, Efekoha, stated that the fallout from the pandemic called for citizens to be responsible for their wellbeing as well as the safety of other citizens. Efekoha urged membersofthepublictoobservealltheguidelinesandlawslaiddownby therelevantagenciesincludingtheW.H.O,theFederalMinistryofHealth, NCDCandstategovernments.HeextendedhisgratitudetotheNigeria Insurers Association for its health cover initiative which guaranteed N1 million free life insurance cover for each health personnel and allied professional attending to COVID-19 case. He stated that the COVID-19 scourge required a committed and joint eort by all stakeholders in the insurance industry and beyond in order to combine resources and expertise for the ultimate victory. Efekoha, also commended NAICOM for its palliatives to the industry and insurance companies who have commenced sensitisation campaign.

“Steps should therefore be taken to allow some categories of workers to resume work and business operations while keeping to safety protocols such as wearing of face masks, social distancing, ban on large gathering, etc �

DG, NACCIMA,

Mr. Ayo Olukanni

ďŹ t f f s e p t w d

p t

it

in c p t t C is F

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NEWS

DISCOS FLOUT NERC’S PAYMENT ORDER per cent), N2,180,000,000.00 (36 per cent), N909,000,000.00 (20 per cent), N1,685,893,563.00 (25 per cent) and 3,067,335,290.31 (40 per cent) of their invoices respectively.

Jos, Kaduna, Kano, Port Harcourt and Yola Discos equally remitted N202,796,093.33 (seven per cent), zero, N500,000,000.00 (14 per cent), N543,199,510.28 (15 per cent) and 234,495,159.06 or 12 per cent of their invoices respectively to the NBET. However, the bulk traders’ record showed that their poor revenue remittances also affected payment to power generation companies (Gencos) in the country with just N15,610,213,986.96 or 30 per cent of the N51,851,634,071.79 January invoice of 25 Gencos paid. The Gencos payment subsequently suffered another setback in February when only N13,091,975,481.84 or 25 per cent of their total invoice of N51,420,242,423.38 was paid.

MUPWAYA: PROPOSED TWO-MONTH FREE POWER SUPPLY NOT FINALISED The MD appealed to customers to ensure that electricity bills were promptly settled, noting that it was the only way spare parts could be procured and the operation of the company could be sustained.

THISDAY had reported that the federal government would incur an average cost of N109.83 billion to supply free electricity to Nigerians as proposed by the National Assembly.

The Discos, under the aegis of the Association of Nigerian Electricity Distributors (ANED), had supported the scheme but on the condition that the federal government should pick the bill for the two-month free electricity supply.

Statistics had shown that since January 2019, the electricity supplied to Nigerians cost between N55 billion and N53 billion monthly.

For instance, the least cost of N47,583,048,273. 37 was incurred in June 2019, while the highest monthly cost for the year was N62,252,549,885.43 incurred in December 2019.

In January 2019, NBET sent an invoice of N55,782,765,614.21 billion to the 11 Discos as the cost of power supply for the month.

DPR: All Offshore Workers Must Isolate Before Deployment Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

Group Business Editor

Capital Market Editor

Goddy Egene

Comms/e-Business Editor

Emma Okonji

Senior Correspondent

Raheem Akingbolu (Advertising) Correspondents

Chinedu Eze (Aviation) Eromosele Abiodun (Maritime) James Emejo (Finance) Ebere Nwoji (Insurance) Chineme Okafor ((Energy) Reporters

Nume Ekeghe (Money Market) Nosa Alekhuogie (ICT)

directive on offshore rotation.

“To ensure that asymptomatic carriers are not missed out, a minimum of 14 days isolation period prior to embarkation should form part of your protocol for management of covid-19 outbreak as this conforms with the coronavirus incubation period of 2-14 days.

“In addition, isolation centres should be made conducive enough to prevent psychological

trauma and emotional imbalance as a result of solitary confinement,” the DPR reminded the industry players in a circular.

The DPR said there were generally no requirements for supervised isolation of offshore workers immediately after disembarkation since offshore facilities are inherently controlled and isolated.

It noted that while some operators have commenced covid-19 testing and others were making plans

to acquire appropriate test kits, all companies should ensure that such test kits and procedures conform to NCDC/ WHO standards to guarantee reliable results and avert needless panic that may result from inaccurate testing. Furthermore, the DPR enjoined the unions, as critical stakeholders, to maintain high level of cooperation with their respective companies during this precarious and challenging period.

The Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR) has reminded oil companies in the country that the 14-day self-isolation regulation handed down to the industry was still in force.

The reminder might not be unconnected with the controversies over the recent arrest of some oil workers in parts of the country, especially Rivers, which had set Governor Nyesom Wike against federal authorities. It may also be against the backdrop of a report a few days ago of some expatriates working for a multinational oil company, who were flown into a hotel in Warri, Delta State, for onward deployment offshore, without adherence to the extant industry rules.

But the DPR in its third advisory by the department’s Director, Mr. Sarki Auwalu, urged oil industry operators to ensure that all protocols are followed in the movement of their staff, both offshore and onshore, so as not to worsen the covid-19 pandemic in the country.

While acknowledging the efforts in implementing stringent measures to contain the spread of the virus in the oil and gas environment in line with government’s directives and L-R:Manager,MedicalWarehouse,LagosStateMedicalWarehouse,Lekki,Mr.JideRazack;members,BoardofTrustee,AllianceManchesterBusiness circulars issued by the DPR, the School(Nigeriachapter),Mr.AyoAdegboye;Mrs.YinkaBanjo;andPresident,Mr.IshmaelNwokocha,duringthedonationofmedicalequipmentbythe petroleum industry regulatory NigeriachaptertotheLagosStateGovernmentinsupportofthefightagainstCOVID-19inLagos…recently

COVID-19 DONATION

NCDMB Shelves 10-Year Commemoration of NOGICD Act Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja The Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), Mr. Simbi Kesiye Wabote, has announced the postponement of the proposed activities to mark the 10th year celebration of the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development (NOGICD) Act. While felicitating with management and staff of the board and the entire oil and gas industry

on the 10th anniversary of the enactment of the Act, Wabote said the move a decade ago was a watershed in the history of the growth of local content in the Nigeria oil and gas sector.

The Executive Secretary conveyed his compliments during the virtual town hall meeting he held with staff of the board to mark the anniversary which was attended by about 90 percent of the board’s staff from different cities across the country.

The NOGICD bill was signed

into law on April 22, 2010 and it eventually gave birth to the NCDMB, which is headquartered in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State. Wabote explained that the board had elaborate plans to celebrate the momentous achievements recorded over the first decade, but had to postpone it alongside other scheduled programmes because of the coronavirus pandemic and escalating effects across the country and the globe.

He noted that the restriction of movement in most parts of

the country had necessitated the adoption of virtual work mode by the board to ensure business continuity.

During the meeting, Wabote charged every staff of the board to start adjusting to the new reality because post-covid-19 would entail a lot of adjustments in the company’s way of doing business, even after a vaccine for the virus is discovered. Wabote, also used the opportunity to commend President Muhammadu Buhari, members of the

Presidential Task Force (PTF) on covid-19 and all frontline medical personnel for the diligent and courageous work they are doing to contain the spread of coronavirus in Nigeria.

He hailed the courage displayed by of the president in banning the importation of rice and some other food items in 2019, a decision that he said encouraged local rice production that has helped the country to avert food crisis during this pandemic.

NLNG Commits N1bn to COVID-19 Fight in Rivers Peter Uzoho

Obinna Chima

agency noted that sticking with the rules will ensure safety as well as ensuring continuity of businesses and operations.

“Most offshore operators maintain a transit centre in an onshore facility where intending offshore workers are isolated and monitored prior to embarkation for a 14/14/14, 14/28/14 or 14/28/28 days cycle (i.e. transit centre/offshore/off-duty) in compliance with DPR’s earlier

The Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG) Limited said it has committed N1 billion in various interventions in Rivers State in collaboration with relevant stakeholders to contain the spread of COVID-19 in the state, particularly in its operational base, Bonny Island currently with no confirmed case of infection).

The NLNG added that on the

national level, it also contributed to the over US$30 million financial support given to the federal government through the Oil and Gas Industry Collaborative initiative spearheaded by the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) to fight the virus. The company restated its support for the fight against the pandemic and urged resilience and adherence to social distancing rules and other precautionary measures advised by the health

authorities, in order to control the spread of the disease in the country.

NLNG in a statement signed by its General Manager, External Relations and Sustainable Development, Mrs Eyono Fatayi-Williams, pointed out that it takes the health and safety of its stakeholders very seriously, adding that the measures it proactively put in place to prevent the spread of the disease was in line with its obligation to staff and social

responsibility to stakeholders, host communities and Nigeria as a whole.

The company revealed that it has committed to the refurbishment of a building and setting-up of a 10-bed Isolation/Holding Centre at the Bonny Zonal Hospital.

The NLNG alsi disclosed that it has in addition donated equipment and Personal Protective Equipment which include five suction machines, three single

air conditioners for consulting rooms, five split air conditioners for wards and 10 patient monitors.

Other items it donated for use on Bonny Island included one oxygen bank consisting of five bull nose cylinders, 10 drip stands, 10,000 one-fit N95 health care particulate respirator and surgical masks, 250,000 surgical masks, 50,000 nitrile gloves, 12,500 hooded coveralls with boots, 70 respirators, and wall mounted hand sanitizers.

Solidaridad Harps on Economic Diversification Dike Onwuamaeze The Solidaridad West Africa (SWA) has said that the negative impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the price of crude oil has made it imperative that Nigeria and private sector players should begin to invest in “the other oil,” which is oil palm.

According to the SWA’s Senior Climate Specialist for Africa, Dr. Samuel Ogallah, the private sector involvement was vital to the success of the revival of palm oil cultivation in Nigeria.

Ogallah said: “In the wake of Covid-19 pandemic that led to the collapse of the oil price that Nigeria depends on as its major

income earner, it is high time for Nigeria to start to invest in the other oil, which is palm oil as a way to increase the contribution of the agriculture sector to the national GDP, reduce poverty and create jobs for the unemployed in the country.” Ogallah statements were contained in a press release issued by the SWA’s Programme

Officer for Communications, Outreach and Networking of SWA, Mr. Pita Ochai. According to the statement, SWA has trained and digitally profiled more than 18,500 smallholder oil palm farmers and millers in Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Enugu and Kogi States of Nigeria within one year.

It noted that the training and

digital profiling exercises that were carried out by SWA were facilitated by The Kingdom of the Netherlands, which funded the “National Initiative for Sustainable Climate-Smart Oil Palm Smallholders (NISCOPS),” to support the federal government’s effort to diversify the economy through the agriculture sector.

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ANALYSIS

Forging Alliance for Oil Sector Growth Peter Uzoho

S

ince the emergence of the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Chief Timipre Sylva and the Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC),Mallam Mele Kyari, at the helm of affairs in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector, they have continued to work in harmony in promoting policies and initiatives that would improve the sector.

This was demonstrated last week, when both men led indigenous oil producing partners under the aegis of Independent Petroleum Producers Group (IPPG) to present six Toyota ambulances and other medical equipment and consumables to the six states of the South-west geopolitical zones.

The donation was part of contribution in support of the ongoing Oil and Gas Industry Intervention Initiative on the COVID-19 Pandemic.

The items included six Toyota ambulances, 2,500 respiratory face masks, 5,000 pieces of safety googles, 5,000 pieces of protective body suits, and 10, 000 respiratory masks.

Speaking at the occasion, Sylva said the gesture was a continuation of the industry’s intervention to combat the COVID-19 pandemic across the country, stating that the items were being distributed to more states that were being affected by the pandemic.

“Today, NNPC and its partners under the umbrella of the Independent Petroleum Producers Group (IPPG), Chevron Nigeria Limited and Delta Deck Offshore are distributing the following items to more states that are most affected by the pandemic in the South-west geopolitical zones.

“That is, Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Ondo, Osun and Ekiti States. Six Toyota ambulances, 2,500 respiratory face masks, 5,000 pieces of safety googles, 5,000 pieces of protective body suits, and 10, 000 respiratory masks.

“Already, seven vehicles have been provided to Lagos and Rivers State by the NNPC-Shell Joint Venture to support the important part of contact tracing. Considering supply chain constraints, all committed items cannot be delivered and distributed on the same day,” he said.

According to Sylva, the NNPC and partners would continue to distribute consignment of medical consumables, equipment and logistic facilities across all the states in the coming days.

He added that similar items would also be delivered to Kano and Katsina States, stressing that in line with the Oil and Gas Intervention Initiative’s plan of establishing permanent and sustainable medical infrastructure in each of the geopolitical zones in the coming days, the industry would be conducting a groundbreaking activity for the building of emergency and infectious diseases hospitals in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State and in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State.

On his part Kyari, who reiterated that the industry needed to embrace cost-cutting measures to surmount the current crisis in the global oil market, assured the oil industry would survive because of its resilient nature.

“You know this is a very resilient industry, it adjusts to every situation. One of the things this industry does is to cut down cost and increase production.

“But when you increase production today there is nowhere to take it to, you also cut down supply so that at the end of the day you are able to balance your books, you maintain your basic services, you shift your budget forward and ultimately so that you don’t get grounded.

“But this is a very resilient industry. We are engaging our partners to make sure that we survive this through this and of course, as the minister has said, this country depends so much on the oil and gas industry, and it is our duty to make sure that this operation continues, revenues continue to flow and that we are able to keep this country going,” Kyari said.

Beyond the collective fight against the COVID-19, which the oil and gas industry has continued to champion through the leadership displayed

by Sylva and Mele Kyari, both of them have continued to collaborate on ways of improving the oil and gas sector.

This, was visible during the launch of the ‘Operation White,’ the TAPE agenda, amongst other initiatives in the industry.

The Operation White is a critical transparency initiative made up of an 89-man monitoring team for the tracking of movement of petroleum products

L-R: Sylva; Mele Kyari; Governor of Kano State, Abdullahi Ganduje, and some officials, during the donation of medical equipment to the state...recently

L-R: Deputy General Manager, National Petroleum Investment Management Services (NAPIMS), Mr. Bala Wunti; Minister of State for Health, Dr. Olorunimbe Mamora; Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Sylva; Mele Kyari and Chairman, Independent Petroleum Producers Group (IPPG), Mr. Ademola Adeyemi-Bero, during the donation of six ambulances and medical equipment to the South-west states in Lagos...recently in and out of the country including importation and distribution.

Sylva, while launching the project in Lagos, had said the initiative was geared towards ensuring transparency and accountability of petroleum product supply and distribution in Nigeria, especially premium motor spirit (PMS).

The minister said the essence was to entrench energy security and deepen the drive for transparency in the downstream operations.

He added that the strategic initiative was aimed at deploying adequate measures to ensure that all molecules of regulated petroleum products imported by the NNPC were well accounted for and utilised in-country.

Sylva noted that the NNPC had continued to record excellent performance in product supply and distribution to the nation, saying “it is doing what it is supposed to do as supplier of last resort, but the reality is the nation bears a great cost in terms of absorbing the shocks of differences in cost.

“It is critical that all hands be put on deck to ensure that every molecule of product imported into this country is utilised within the borders of this nation for the benefit of the Nigerian populace.

This is a national imperative and a core thrust of Mr. President’s mandate for leadership of the oil and gas industry.

“Therefore, the task for us is to ensure that the petroleum products supply and distribution chain in Nigeria is completely devoid of illicit practices including oil theft, diversion and smuggling of petroleum products, which constitute economic sabotage and hemorrhage of the national revenue through high cost of under recovery.”

He maintained that, “to do this certainly requires diligence, commitment, courage and robust partnership amongst various downstream stakeholders.

There is also a dire need to instill an improved

culture of transparency, accountability and efficiency in the industry, streamline our operations along best practices by championing and implementing strategic reforms at every layer of the supply and distribution chain.”

The minister, who was represented at the occasion by the Executive Secretary of Petroleum Equalisation Fund (PEF), Mr. Ahmed Boboi, however, expressed his optimism that the gains of the Operation White Project will reduce the inflated product consumption figure and ultimately reduce the subsidy wage bill.

He explained: “The government will not relent on the sustenance of the programme. A team of 89 persons drawn from five key agencies has been mandated to ensure transparency and accountability in the distribution of petroleum products across the country. “In addition, they will authenticate actual volumes of products imported and consumed; ensure the nation attains energy security; reduce diversion of PMS and stop financial hemorrhage; improve downstream operations and create commercial opportunities.”

According to him, tracking of products and clean-up of illegal stations would continue and adequately supported with modern technology.

He said the government was also committed to refurbishing the existing refineries to achieve full capacity operation, adding that work had already begun at the Port Harcourt Refinery.

Sylva said the government would also aggressively promote the passage of the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB) which would have a positive impact on the downstream sector by ensuring regulatory enforcement and better relation among all stakeholders.

“We will actively collaborate with the private sector to create a large number of well-paying jobs for Nigerian youths.

“These and various others are the policy direction aimed at repositioning the downstream sector of the petroleum industry in Nigeria,” he added.

Also, charged the team to deliver on the onerous national assignment of controlling leakages of petroleum products, especially petrol, adding that they have no option but to succeed.

Kyari said that ‘Operation White’ would monitor and track every molecule of petroleum products imported into the country and follow it through to the pump, pointing out that the NNPC was poised to support the federal government in its quest to guaranteeing energy security for the country.

He said that “The selection of ‘Operation White’ team was very thorough and people of great competence and high level of integrity were head-hunted for this national assignment. Today, we are good to go and we will see our transaction end-to-end as is the case in other countries.

“We are poised to support the minister to ensure that energy security is guaranteed for our dear country, so that our principal, President Muhammadu Buhari, would be proud of us.”

The GMD also encouraged the members of the team to deliver on the national assignment with a deepened sense of patriotism and excellence, assuring that the project will monitor and track the entire movement of petroleum products and enshrine visible transparency across the value chain.

This robust alliance has also been demonstrated under Melee Kyari’s blueprint known as Transparency, Accountability and Performance Excellence (TAPE), as he has continued to partner with the minister on the initiatives.

This aims at maintaining positive image, share values of integrity and transparency to all stakeholders, the accountability leg of the campaign would assure compliance with business ethics, policies, regulations and accountability to all stakeholders.

20

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BUSINESS/MONEYGUIDE

CBN Lifts Suspension on Cheque Clearing Obinna Chima The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has lifted the temporary suspension it placed on the clearing of cheques in the country, with effect from today.

The Bank disclosed this in a circular posted on its website, titled: “Re: Temporary Suspension of Cheque Clearing in the Nigerian Clearing System,� that was signed by its Director, Banking Services Department,

Mr. Sam Okojere.

It explained: “In furtherance of its efforts in the development of a safe and efficient payment system in Nigeria, the Bank in collaboration with relevant stakeholders has reviewed the need for cheque clearing to accommodate users of cheques as one of the payment instruments in Nigeria despite the lockdown in some states and the FCT. “In view of this, the Bank

hereby lift the temporary suspension of cheque clearing in Nigeria. Consequently, cheque instruments will be allowed to pass through the clearing system, with effect from April 28, 2020. Banks are encouraged to advise their customers of this directives.�

In view of the initial 14-day lockdown announced by the president, the CBN had suspended the clearing of cheques in the Nigerian Clearing System.

BoI Grants Three Months Moratorium on Loans Dike Onwuamaeze The Bank of Industry (BoI) has granted three months moratorium to all loans it extended to its customers to enable them cope with the negative impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on their businesses. The Bank explained in a statement yesterday that the moratorium was in line with the recent directive of President Muhammadu Buhari on loans’ moratorium and, “advised that customers requiring more than three months can apply for a further extension, which can be up to one year (12 months).�

The Bank also reduced the, interest rates on all BoI -funded projects by two per cent per annum, from the 10 per cent it was previously, to eight per cent per annum. This became effective since April 1.

This, stated, has also been communicated to customers and partnering commercial banks.

In addition, the BoI said it has also worked with its funding partners to obtain interest rate reductions on some of the funds it manages.

“The Bank worked with the Nigerian Content Development Management Board to reduce the interest rates on credit facilities approved under its managed fund from eight per cent pa to six per cent per annum. “Moreover, all intervention funds granted by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and disbursed by the BoI have been covered by the CBN’s palliative measures, which include moratorium extension and interest rate reduction to five per cent per annum, which has also been communicated to the relevant customers. “The Bank has written to all the managing directors and chief risk officers of its partnering commercial banks, officially notifying them of the bank’s position on these initiatives,� it added.

Other interventions of the BoI to support government and private sector initiative to fight COVID-19, it revealed, included the donation of N700 million to the COVID-19 fund, to the Lagos State Government and the FCT Ministerial Committee on COVID-19.

“These are trying times. But you can take comfort in the commitment of our health officials, the coordinated response of our federal government and the strength of our financial system. “The Bank wishes to restate its commitment towards actualising its goal of supporting economic development and industrialisation, which it would continue to implement through its mission of providing financial and business support services to enterprises in line with the economic agenda of the federal government of Nigeria,� the statement added.

It described the COVID-19 pandemic as a clear and present danger to the world especially developing nations like Nigeria from a health as well as an economic perspective.

The BoI also noted that, “these are very challenging times for all Nigerians, including our dear customers.� “This is why the Bank has been working tirelessly to provide the critical support required by our customers not only to survive but to thrive in these difficult times,� BoI said.

ElumeluDonates600BagsofRicetoDeltaCommunities Onicha-Ugbo, the hometown of the mother of the Chairman of the United Bank for Africa (UBA), Mr. Tony Elumelu and other towns in Delta north area were thrown into wild jubilation Sunday night as six trailer loads of rice donated to the communities as palliative for lockdown arrived.

Onicha Ugbo and Onicha-Uku were not the only beneficiaries of donation by Elumelu, as the four local government areas in Aniocha and Oshimili got one trailer load each. The beneficiary local governments were Aniocha North, Aniocha South, Oshimili North and Oshimili South.

Residents of the communities rained prayers on their son for remembering them at this trying period.

According to a cabinet member of Onicha Ugbo palace, Chief Ken Iwelumo, “On April 26, 2020, Onicha Ugbo received a shipment of 600 bags of high quality rice from Mr. Tony Elumelu, the Group Chairman of UBA Group and Heirs Holdings. “This is a gift to his motherland. Words cannot express our gratitude to him during these difficult and uncertain times. “We pray that our good lord will continue to shower eternal

blessings on him, his family and Elumelu clan.�

The gesture the founder of Heirs Holdings was to cushion the effect of the lockdown and also to appreciate his people.

Elumelu has changed the lives of African young startups through his Tony Elumelu Foundation.

He had also facilitated the donation of N5 billion through the UBA Foundation to combat the pandemic in Nigeria and 19 African countries where UBA operates. In addition, Elumelu personally donated N1billion to the private sector led Coalition against COVID-19 in Nigeria.

Mixta Africa, FMBN Call for Automation of Mortgage Process Eromosele Abiodun Experts in real estate have stated that declining liquidity and prioritisation of consumption are factors that might inform new ways around doing things in the real estate industry going forward.

The experts who spoke during a panel session at the Mixta Africa’s Webinar session held in Lagos, with the theme, “Making Informed Investment Decisions in the COVID-19 Era: A real Estate Perspective,� said governments’ early response with policies and palliatives would enable the economy

recover quickly.

This period, they agreed, presents a huge challenge to both consumers and investors in real estate, “and therefore offer another opportunity for providers of housing, estate properties to think outside the box and come up with strategies to not on sustain available consumers but provide value to make investors look towards the industry.�

Panelists at the session included the Managing Director, Mixta Africa Plc, Mr. Kola Ashiru-Balgun; Managing/CEO, Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria, Ahmed Musa Dangiwa; Chief Executive Officer/VC Fine

and Country West Africa, Mrs Ude Okonjo; Managing Principal, Nextnomics Advisory, Dr. Temitayo Oshikoya; Managing Director, CBRE Excellerate, Mr Chinua Azubuike and Chief Executive Officer, Asset-2-Sell Properties Limited, Mrs Chukwunonso Onny-Ezeh.

Ashiru-Balgun, who was the moderator of the session, provided background on how the COVID-19 was impacting the economy including growing risk of sentiments globally, weak economic outlook, lower crude oil prices, which Nigeria is currently experiencing, and concerns of further currency devaluation.

MARKET INDICATORS MONEY AND CREDIT STATISTICS

(MILLION NAIRA)

SEPTEMBER 2019 Money Supply (M3)

35,029,779.72

-- CBN Bills Held by Money Holding Sectors

7,374,356.91

Money Supply (M2)

27,655,422.82

-- Quasi Money

116,533,891.21

-- Narrow Money (M1)

11,121,531.60

---- Currency Outside Banks

1,625,047.69

---- Demand Deposits

9,496,483.91

Net Foreign Assets (NFA)

13,911,335.83

Net Domestic Assets(NDA)

21,118,443.89

-- Net Domestic Credit (NDC)

35,918,179.45

---- Credit to Government (Net)

10,452,199.38

---- Memo: Credit to Govt. (Net) less FMA

11,007,422.79

---- Memo: Fed. and Mirror Accounts (FMA)

25,465,980.07

---- Credit to Private Sector (CPS)

-14,799,735.56

--Other Assets Net

7,000,253.07

Reserve Money (Base Money

2,005,600.83

--Currency in Circulation

4,677,530.81

--Banks Reserves

317,121.43

Ëž Ă™Ă&#x;ĂœĂ?Ă? Ě‹

Money Market Indicators (in Percentage) Month

March 2018

Inter-Bank Call Rate

15.16

Minimum Rediscount Rate (MRR) Monetary Policy Rate (MPR)

14.00

Treasury Bill Rate

11.84

Savings Deposit Rate

4.07

1 Month Deposit Rate

8.82

3 Months Deposit Rate

9.72

6 Months Deposit Rate

10.93

12 Months Deposit Rate

10.21

Prime Lending rate

17.35

Maximum Lending Rate

31.55

Ëž Ă™Ă˜Ă?ĂžĂ‹ĂœĂŁ ÙÖÓĂ?ĂŁ Ă‹ĂžĂ? Ě‹ ͯ͹Ϲ

OPEC DAILY BASKET PRICE Ëœ Í°Íą Í°ÍŽÍ°ÍŽ

The price of OPEC basket of thirteen crudes stood at $14.31 a barrel on Friday, compared with $15.23 the previous day, according to OPEC Secretariat calculations.

The OPEC Reference Basket of Crudes (ORB) is made up of the following: Saharan Blend (Algeria), Girassol (Angola), Djeno (Congo), ZaďŹ ro (Equatorial Guinea), Rabi Light (Gabon), Iran Heavy (Islamic Republic of Iran), Basra Light (Iraq), Kuwait Export (Kuwait), Es Sider (Libya), Bonny Light (Nigeria), Arab Light (Saudi Arabia), Murban (UAE) and Merey (Venezuela).

SOURCE: OPEC headquarters, Vienna

21

T H I S D AY ˾ ͰͶ˜ ͰͮͰͮ

MARKET NEWS

FBN Holdings Pays N14bn Dividend, Promises Shareholders Better Returns Goddy Egene Shareholders of FBN Holdings Plc yesterday approved the N13.64 billion recommended for the year ended December 2019, even as the group reiterated its promise to place its shareholder value at the forefront of its operations.

Commending the board and management on the improved results and the dividend recommended, Mr. Sunny Nwosu of the Independent

Shareholders Association of Nigeria (ISAN), said: “I want to put on record, our appreciation for the dividend being proposed. We look forward greater dividend in the future because we believe we have in place a management with good thinking. So, we are expectant of good products.”

Also speaking, another shareholder, Mr. Adebayo Adeleke, described the financial result of the group as another outstanding per-

P R I C E S MAIN BOARD

F O R DEALS

formance and one that has helped shareholders enjoyed better dividend of 38 kobo this year.

FBN Holdings ended the year with profit before tax (PBT) of N83.6 billion in, up by 30.9 per cent from N63.9 billion in 2018, while profit after tax (PAT)rose from N58.2 billion to N73.7 billion.

According to the financial institution, it has been positioned and driven to not just remain relevant in

S E C U R I T I E S MARKET PRICE

QUANTITY TRADED

VALUE TRADED ( N )

the future but also involved in the development of the Nigerian economy and its host countries across Africa.

Speaking at the AGM, the Group Managing Director, FBN Holdings Plc, Mr. UK Eke, said central to its strategy is the three-pronged focus , noting that these primary focus areas are in addition to the long-term strategy of the Group, which is ultimately geared towards ensuring that FBN Holdings becomes one of the foremost

T R A D E D MAIN BOARD

A S

financial services institutions in Sub-Saharan Africa.

He said the 2019 financial results have been a good reflection of our strategy and the directional ratios are consistent with the future we seek to create for the institution.

He assured shareholders that the strategy to reposition the Group is gathering momentum and the key pain points, including the challenging delinquent loan

O F

portfolio, have been effectively addressed except for the need to intensify efforts at reducing our cost to serve.

“Now that we are on course for a normalised non-performing loan (NPL) territory in 2020 and with our leadership position in electronic channels, the Group is positioned to take advantage of the evolving opportunities in the market for the benefit of our esteemed shareholders,” Eke said.

2 7 / 0 4 / 2 0 2 0 DEALS

MARKET PRICE

QUANTITY TRADED

VALUE TRADED ( N)

22

TUESDAY, ÍşÎ€Ëœ ͺ͸ͺ͸ Ëž THISDAY

BACK PAGE CONTINUATION COPING WITH CORONANOMICS daily to earn a living and are now stranded at home, unable to sustain themselves. Their home economics has been violated. Their daily source of income has been wiped out.

While the rich may have savings and be able WR IDOO EDFN RQ ÀQDQFLDO UHVHUYHV WKH SRRU who hardly ever save, and rarely have any surplus to save for the rainy day, because for them it rains every day, are most vulnerable.

The effect as seen in Nigeria, is that many people are beginning to defy the lockdown order and government’s determination to enforce it. The hungry and the angry can be seen on the streets of Lagos begging for food and money, or threatening to attack the rich. There is a looming crisis of social unrest. Business owners are also beginning to suggest that it may perhaps be more advisable to ease the restrictions to allow businesses to function. Nigeria recorded its ÀUVW LQGH[ FDVH RQ )HEUXDU\ 3UHVLGHQW Muhammadu Buhari announced the lockdown RI 2JXQ /DJRV DQG WKH )&7 RQ 0DUFK States subsequently imposed dusk to dawn curfews and shut down their borders.

But where is the trade off? Should we cancel the lockdown and allow businesses to re-open, so people can keep their jobs DQG EXVLQHVVHV FDQ PDNH SURĂ€W" , GR QRW buy the argument that businesses should re-open. We must avoid the mistake made

by Mayor William Randolph Mills in Denver &RORUDGR 8QLWHG 6WDWHV LQ 'HQYHU ZDV VKXW GRZQ IRU ÀYH ZHHNV GXULQJ WKH 6SDQLVK )OX EXW DV EXVLQHVV RZQHUV EHJDQ to mount pressure on the Mayor, arguing that the plague was under control, and that life should return to normal, Mayor Mills succumbed. It was a decision the city regretted.

0RUH SHRSOH GLHG ² LQ WRWDO 1LJHULD must tread cautiously and avoid the error of imitation. It is better to be patient than to become patients. The urge to protect or attract investments should not supersede the need to protect the people from themselves.

On that score, African governments are often obsessed with the search for investments, even if many of these countries fail to provide the necessary infrastructure, enabling environment, and policy framework to support business, either local or foreign. This has been a major challenge for Nigeria too, but whatever efforts that may have been made to improve the environment have also been affected by the shocks and uncertainties occasioned by the &29,' SDQGHPLF ,QYHVWRUV OLNH WR KHGJH their bets and minimize risks. Whereas it has been said that certain aspects of the economy stand to gain from the current situation, VXFK DV WHFK ÀQDQFH WHOHFRPPXQLFDWLRQV and agri-tech startups, the reality has been LQ WKH VKDSH RI FDSLWDO à LJKW GLVUXSWLRQV

in the markets and distortions that could SUHFLSLWDWH D ORQJ ODVWLQJ ÀQDQFLDO FULVLV Let us remember that investments and EXVLQHVVHV ZHUH WKH ÀUVW WR WDNH WKH &RURQD 9LUXV KLW )URP $VLD WR (XURSH WR WKH 8QLWHG States and everywhere, stocks crashed. In the month of March alone, the Nigerian Stock ([FKDQJH ORVW RYHU D WULOOLRQ 1DLUD 3RUWIROLR investors dumped their investments and tried to convert their stakes into dollar, thus putting pressure on the Naira, the country’s national currency. The Naira depreciated quickly, forcing the Central Bank to close its PXOWLSOH )RUH[ ZLQGRZV DQG DGMXVW SULFHV – a euphemism for currency devaluation.

7KH 1HZ <RUN 6WRFN ([FKDQJH DW D SRLQW KDG WR VKXW GRZQ 6WRFN ([FKDQJHV DFURVV the world, including Nigeriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s have since opted for remote trading. Trading has always RFFXUUHG RQ WKH Ă RRU RI WKH PDUNHW HDFK time markets opened, but Corona Virus has GULYHQ HYHU\ Ă RRU EURNHU LQWR KROHV (YHQ foreign remittances from the Diaspora, a major source of support for African economies, have shrunk, and that may be the case in the short to medium term window. The challenge that governments face is how to turn the challenges of today into new opportunities for a re-set. Investors are bound to remain careful and watchful, especially in volatile sectors. There is no point jumping the gun.

The effect of the disruption is perhaps EHVW PDJQLĂ&#x20AC;HG E\ WKH FULVLV LQ WKH JOREDO RLO industry. With the global industrial complex shut down, the oil industry faced a demand and supply crisis, resulting in a sharp drop in the spot price of crude oil. In the last few ZHHNV RLO SULFHV KDYH Ă XFWXDWHG EHWZHHQ EDUUHO LQ -DQXDU\ WR DV ORZ DV EDUUHO E\ 0DUFK DQG XS WR EDUUHO E\ $SULO DQG DERXW D ZHHN DJR WKH West Texas Intermediate (WTI) went into negative territory, selling at below a dollar per barrel due to a demand-supply-storage crisis. Brent Crude dropped to as low as EDUUHO RQO\ WR LPSURYH VOLJKWO\ LQ WKH IDFH RI WHQVLRQV LQ WKH 0LGGOH (DVW EHWZHHQ the United States and Iran. In March, an 23(& PHHWLQJ WR DJUHH RQ SURGXFWLRQ cuts in order to ensure a balance between demand and supply, and hence stabilize prices, ended in a stalemate, and a price war, as Russia opposed the move. By April, 23(& DQG QRQ 23(& PHPEHUV HYHQWXDOO\ DJUHHG WR D SURGXFWLRQ FXW EXW WKLV was a case of too little, too late.

2LO UHYHQXH DFFRXQWV IRU DERXW RI Nigeriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s foreign exchange revenue and provides the benchmark for its budget.

1LJHULD¡V EXGJHW RULJLQDOO\ KDG D FUXGH RLO EHQFKPDUN RI EDUUHO DQG D SURGXFWLRQ RXWSXW RI EHWZHHQ PLOOLRQ WR

PLOOLRQ EDUUHOV SHU GD\ :LWK WKH FUDVK LQ RLO SULFH DQG WKH 23(& SURGXFWLRQ FXWV 1LJHULD¡V %XGJHW ZDV WXUQHG XSVLGH down; its production quota has been further UHGXFHG 7KH )HGHUDO *RYHUQPHQW KDV VLQFH UHYLVHG WKH EHQFKPDUN GRZQZDUGV WR barrel, and shaved off close to half of the EXGJHW 1LJHULD PD\ KDYH WR UHYLHZ LWV budget benchmark again, and the situation could get worse if uncertainties persist in the global oil market. Right now, Nigeria is already operating at a loss. At least one commentator has predicted that the country faces a Venezuela or Zimbabwe-like situation. *URZWK LV VWDJQDQW ,QĂ DWLRQ LV ULVLQJ DW WKHUH LV QR LQGLFDWLRQ WKDW WKH Ă&#x20AC;JXUH for April ending will be better. The energy FULVLV RFFDVLRQHG E\ &29,' VKRXOG EH D wake-up call for mono-cultural economies like Nigeria, and a pointer to the importance RI GLYHUVLĂ&#x20AC;FDWLRQ $V LW LV 1LJHULD IDFHV D revenue squeeze, a sovereign debt crisis and a OLTXLGLW\ FULVLV )HGHUDWLRQ $FFRXQWV $OORFDWLRQV )$$& VKDUHG PRQWKO\ EHWZHHQ WKH )HGHUDO Government and the states have dropped IURP D SURMHFWHG 1 ELOOLRQ WR 1 ELOOLRQ LQ -DQXDU\ DQG 1 ELOOLRQ LQ )HEUXDU\ ZLWK D VOLJKW ULVH WR 1 ELOOLRQ in March. The share for April and May/ -XQH FRXOG GURS WR DV ORZ DV 1 ELOOLRQ ZKLFK LV ZK\ WKH )HGHUDO *RYHUQPHQW LV seeking foreign loans and the withdrawal RI 1 ELOOLRQ IURP WKH 6WDELOL]DWLRQ )XQG component of the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Sovereign Wealth )XQG 6:) 7KH QHHG IRU HFRQRPLF UHIRUP in Nigeria has never been more urgent than QRZ &29,' KDV H[SRVHG IDXOW OLQHV DQG vulnerabilities in Nigeriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s economy and its health and education sectors.

The long and short of it is that the economics of Corona virus or Coronanomics, shows the interconnectedness of everything, that is the value chain of human existence from biology to economics, politics, technology, trade, investment, race, culture, identity and HYHU\WKLQJ HOVH ,Q WKH IDFH RI VXFK LQĂ&#x20AC;QLWXGH what is most required is leadership to help the people regain a sense of balance and restore all things that may have gone awry. Where leadership fails, the peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s misery is made worse, but the leadership also pays a price.

When the New York Stock Market crashed in 2FWREHU +HUEHUW +RRYHU 5 ZKR KDG distinguished himself as a great mobiliser of relief efforts after World War 1 was the President of the United States. But his failure to manage the Great Depression, tactically and realistically, ruined his reputation. ,Q KH ORVW WKH 3UHVLGHQWLDO HOHFWLRQ WR )UDQNOLQ 'HODQR 5RRVHYHOW ' 5RRVHYHOW introduced the New Deal and an effective stimulus package that was backed by the

)HGHUDO *RYHUQPHQW 7KLV KHOSHG WKH 8QLWHG States to recover faster than other countries.

Many countries were still battling with the Depression until World War II broke out in 7KH TXDOLW\ RI OHDGHUVKLS PDGH DOO WKH difference. Roosevelt was re-elected four times as President. Hoover is not remembered DV D JUHDW $PHULFDQ 3UHVLGHQW )'5 GLHG LQ RIĂ&#x20AC;FH DV RQH RI $PHULFD¡V JUHDWHVW 7KH FDXVH RI WKH *UHDW 'HSUHVVLRQ RI PD\ KDYH EHHQ HFRQRPLF RU Ă&#x20AC;QDQFLDO DQG WKH FDXVH RI &29,' PD\ EH ELRORJLFDO but there are clear areas of convergence in terms of economic and political impact. The fortunes and legacies of political leaders WRGD\ PD\ ULVH DQG IDOO ZLWK &29,' DQG its various fall-outs.

The common denominator, so far, is the attempt by governments to protect and save lives and the economy. China is ahead in moving quickly from pandemic to economic recovery. The United States, UK, Canada, 5XVVLD -DSDQ 8QLWHG $UDE (PLUDWHV DQG other countries have announced different stimulus packages to cushion the effect on households and businesses. In Nigeria, the government has also introduced a number of measures and initiatives. But many questions have been raised about the quality of our governmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s intervention and strategy.

Nigeria has a reputation for doing the right thing the wrong way. We see that at play.

There are yawning disparities in the delivery of Conditional Cash Transfers and doubts have been expressed about the enabling criteria and the absolute numbers. Nigeria is targeting 3.6 million households, and a total of 11. 6 million persons who are considered poor and vulnerable because they have less than 1 LQ WKHLU EDQN DFFRXQWV DQG FDQQRW DIIRUG WR EX\ XS WR D 1 ZRUWK RI UHFKDUJH FDUGV ,Q D FRXQWU\ RI PLOOLRQ SHRSOH even if this cash transfer is well-managed, it ZRXOG DPRXQW WR D QRQ LQWHUYHQWLRQ )RRG palliatives have also been announced in the IRUP RI UHOHDVH RI PHWULF WRQQHV RI grains from the National Grains Reserve. Yet, a few days ago, the Oyo State Government RSHQO\ UHMHFWHG EDJV RI ULFH GRQDWHG WR WKH VWDWH E\ WKH )HGHUDO *RYHUQPHQW RQ the grounds that the rice was infested with weevils!

Coronavirus confronts Nigeria with basic (FRQRPLFV DQG 6RFLRORJ\ OHVVRQV Nigeria may well end up not as one of Ruchir Sharmaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s BreakOut Nations (Norton and Company, 2012) but as a Break Down Nation. Nobody can predict the point at which the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leaders will begin to understand the difference between both. The relevant lessons lie in the nexus between politics, economy and leadership.

ABBA KYARI: THE PASSAGE OF A GOOD MAN who later became Managing Director of The Triumph Newspapers in Kano, late Gabriel Abutu who became editor, Democrat Weekly.

By any standard, Abba Kyari was an enigma.

He embodied the attributes of an aristocrat, a professional, a technocrat and yet deep down, he was humble and passionate.

The weekly edition specialized in human interest stories, covering all parts the country, sports and good cartoons created by Abubakar Shekara, currently Director of Press to Governor Tambuwal, of Sokoto State. Its sports pages were a great fun, being edited by a weird genius, Suleye who worked with passion.

With the arrival of Mallam Abba at the Democrat newspapers, the senior editorial staff ventured into a new routine of consultations with some senior veterans. Now and then the MD, Mallam Isa, would arrange meetings with the late Adamu Ciroma and Mallam Mamman Daura. The duo would provide the senior editors some insights into journalism and the workings of newspaper industry, in particular.

Late Adamu Ciroma in an orientation lecture to the staff of the new Democrat newspapers provided the basis for the editorial policy of the Democrat newspapers. Mallam Ciroma told the staff how they, at the New Nigerian stable, set up a mechanism for measuring public opinions and checking proprietorial pressures. He explained that whenever they noticed government showering praises on them, then they knew that they were tilting too much toward government and away from the people. On the other hand, when they heard the opposition praising the papers, they realized that they were being too critical against the authorities. In either case, they retraced their steps and tried to balance.

It was thus, the Democrat newspapers browed a leaf and operated a balanced editorial policy. The papers were also equally helped by the unfortunate descend of the New Nigerian newspapers at that time. The

Kyari New Nigerian newspapers were turned into utter government megaphone, thus, alienated the readers. It was the era of the excruciating HIIHFWV RI WKH )HGHUDO *RYHUQPHQW (FRQRPLF Structural Adjustment Policy (SAP). Thus, readers simply deserted the New Nigerian newspapers in favour of other newspapers.

The loss of the New Nigerian, therefore, became the gain of the Democrat.

Mallam Abba Kyariâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s relationship with

sections, overseeing the work while other HGLWRUV UHPDLQHG LQ WKHLU RIĂ&#x20AC;FHV +H ZRXOG ensure that the work was done properly. He would never accept failure or laziness, but was never oppressive or unjust against junior staff.

Mallam Abba was a loyal staff, a dependable leader and a reliable friend. Little wonder, President Buhari trusted him so much against all criticism by the uninformed and the mischievous. Indeed, to demonstrate the level of trust the President had on his Chief of Staff, Abba Kyari, Buhari directed all minister to clear with Abba before coming to him for their problem. There were all hues and cries against the directive. Buhariâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s reason only became clear after the demise of Abba Kyari.

The President described him as a loyal and trusted friend for over forty years.

We also continue to hear and read eulogies, accolades and all types of praise being showered at the late Abba from across regional, ethnic and religious divides throughout the country.

This was after he was much maligned by the uninformed and professional critics. Had Abba been an ordinary mortal, he would have been swept away. Typical of him, he persevered and triumphed at the end.

It was Alexander Pope, I think, who once VDLG ´7KH QDWXUDO WHQGHQFLHV RI PHQ VR VORZ to praise and so quick to blame, makes the discovery of LGHDV PRUH GLIĂ&#x20AC;FXOW WKDQ RI WKH high seas and oceans.â&#x20AC;? That exactly was the metaphor of Abba Kyari. )RU KLP LW ZDV D WULXPSKDQW H[LVW GXULQJ a plague, which according Islamic principle colleagues and juniors was simply that of is a martyrdom for a Muslim. May Allah comrades. Whenever our MD, Mallam Isa (SWT) multiply Abba Kyariâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s good deeds was around, a rich meal would be brought many folds, forgive his short-comings and WR RIĂ&#x20AC;FH 7KH 0' 7RJHWKHU ZLWK $OEDVKLU admit him, out of His mercy, into Aljannatul Kyari, Gausu, Mahmoud, Abdulhamid Baba )LUGDXVLO DDOD Tunde and Tunde Mohammed, we would have Â&#x2021;&RXUWHV\ RI 0DOODP ,VPDLOD ,VD )XQWXD feasst, cracking jokes as one happy family.

But Abba never stayed in one place for too 0DQDJLQJ 'LUHFWRU 1HZ $IULFD +ROGLQJV ORQJ QRW HYHQ LQ KLV RIĂ&#x20AC;FH +H ZRXOG JR XS /LPLWHG .DGXQD 1LJHULD 3XEOLVKHUV RI WKH to the production, the paste up and other 'HPRFUDW 1HZVSDSHUV

˜ ͺ΀˜ ͺ͸ͺ͸ ˾ T H I S D AY

23

TUESDAYSPORTS

Group Sports Editor Duro Ikhazuagbe Email duro.ikhazuagbe@thisdaylive.com 0811 181 3083 SMS ONLY

Why I Left Track & Field for British Royal Navy, By Fasuba

Duro Ikhazuagbe Eight years after African record holder in the 100m, Olusoji Fasuba, 35, dumped Nigeria and track & field to seek a new career in Royal British Navy in 2012, the 60m World Indoor champion has explained why

he quit the sport that brought him fame and honours.

Speaking from his base in the United Kingdom yesterday on FUBS WhatsApp platform, Fasuba whose 9.85secs African 100m record has endured 14 years without any sign of been erased soon, insisted that he took that

De Gea Pledges Future to Man Utd Manchester United first choice goalkeeper, David De Gea, is already looking forward to more years with the club as against annual rumour of intend departure from the former English champions.

The 34 years old goal keeper whose contract expires soon including the optional extra 12 months is now seeking for contract extension.

Despite coming very close to leaving once and the of subject of speculation at many other times, De Gea has always maintained a close personal attachment to United, never actively pushing to leave even when a Real Madrid transfer was at his fingertips.

His latest comments on being at the club only serve to reinforce that and he comes across as genuinely privileged to be at Old Trafford for what will have been 10 years in 2021.

“I am getting older,” De Gea joked on a United Hangouts chat.

“Just to be a part of this club is amazing, so imagine being here for nearly 10 years – it is something like a dream! It is great to play games with this club and I hope I can be here for many more [years].”

The question of De Gea’s United future has resurfaced yet again in recent months, but not for the same reasons as in the past. The 29-year-old has seen his form wane, while home-grown stopper Dean Henderson has enjoyed two very strong seasons on loan at Sheffield United.

Henderson has been widely tipped to spend another year away from Old Trafford next season, but the prospect of competition should also serve to improve both goalkeepers in the longer term.

De Gea feels that United were taking positive steps when football was halted as a result of the coronavirus crisis, especially with the mid-season addition of Bruno Fernandes.

David de Gea...extends Man Utd deal

option of a new career (in British Navy) because there was no future for him in athletics in Nigeria.

“I decided to take my bow at that early age to start a life (in British Navy) for myself and my family because I was tired of always asking for money that was not coming especially when I was injured on more than one occasion for the country (Nigeria),” observed Fasuba fondly called ‘Flash’ during his track career.

Apart from the African record in the 100m of 9.85 seconds, just 0.27 of a second slower than the fastest man in the world at the time, (Usain Bolt), Fasuba also has to his long list of medals a bronze in the 4x100m relay at the 2004 Athens Olympics, gold in the 100m and 4x100m relay at the 2007 All-Africa Games in Algiers and gold at the 2008 World Indoor Championships

60m in Valencia, Spain.

But Fasuba stressed that after he clocked the new African sprint record at the Doha Grand Prix to erase Frankie Fredricks’ 9.86sec previous title he was injured and had to spend a lot of money to be able to run again.

“When I got injured after the African record, I spent a total of $15,000USD to get my self treated in Germany by the best doctor.

That was the same doctor that treats Jamaican Usain Bolt and Tyson Gay of USA. To give you a bigger picture, I was treated in the low grade room because the others paid four times more,” revealed the Sapele-born former sprinter now a logistic expert for British Navy.

Despite his pleading to the Federal Ministry of Youth and Sports to assist him with the payment for his treatment in

Germany, Fasuba was ignored and was expected to continue to race for Nigeria.

“I was told by the ministry to send the receipts for the treatment which I did. I am still waiting for the funds. Only God knows when I am going to get the refund....

Maybe I will get it when am gone?” queried Africa’s fastest man to date.

He however admitted that to get to the elite class of track & field takes a lot of time and money.

“Being a professional athlete is expensive. That’s just my point and when athletes get grants, I can assure you that it doesn’t solve a quarter of our problems (training costs) as it is not enough,” Fasuba further hinted.

While fielding a question from a former top official of the Nigerian Olympic Committee (NOC), Fasuba admitted being honored

and given financial support of $10,000 USD from his home Ekiti State government .

“I got a gift of $10,000 USD and not N10million from my state government for doing the State and Nigeria proud as Africa’s fastest man. At that time, in as much as it looks like a big gift which I cherished from my state, I knew as a professional that the amount ($10,000) will not take me till my old age or last me a year as training fees for a professional athlete is very expensive.

“And since I knew Nigeria had no plan for me and my Adidas sponsors (who paid me even more than that $10,000) was just till I got injured or I retired, the best option was what I did to have a secured future for me and my young family,” concludes Fasuba who remains a fanatical follower of Nigerian track & field.

Fasuba...when he won the World Indoor Championship 60m in Valencia, Spain

HiFL Organisers to Announce FIFA Proposes Temporary Five Subs Per Match New Dates for Tournament Organisers of the Higher Institutions Football League (HiFL), PACE Limited have said that a new date is to be announced for the tournament as soon as the ravaging Coronavirus pandemic is put under control.

The league had earlier announced the suspension of the start of the season by one month and that fixtures will not return until the ban on academic/footballing activities elapses.

According to the Chief Operating Officer of the HiFL, Olamide Adeyemo, the kickoff date will remain under constant review and will be announced as soon as it is conclusive.

“We will continue to monitor developments and work with relevant stakeholders through this very challenging time.

After a thorough and rigorous exercise carried out by the accreditation team, a final list of 29 universities including those from federal, state and private institutions from an initial 54 schools were

confirmed to participate in the 2020 season.

“We remain grateful to all interested universities and their handlers for their laudable co-operation.

“The full list will be shared across our official digital channels immediately.

“Please be on the lookout for the groupings and other proceedings, pending the lifting of the bans,” observed the organisers.

They however pleaded with affected institutions and players to follow the guidance of all relevant health authorities.

“The safety of all of us depends on each of us. We hope you are keeping well and safe. Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone, especially with those who have lost loved ones.

“To all decision makers, health professionals and key workers on the frontline, you are heroes. The entire HiFL family stands with you and salutes you all,” concludes the statement from the HiFL team.

FIFA has proposed that teams should be allowed to make up to five substitutions per match, instead of the usual three, as a temporary measure, the global soccer body said yesterday.

It said the idea was to help deal with possible fixture

congestion as leagues attempt to complete the season in a short space of time once play starts again in the aftermath of the novel coronavirus outbreak.

The proposal would have to be approved by soccer’s rule-making body IFAB and

the final decision would rest with competition organisers, FIFA added in an emailed statement to Reuters.

“Each team would now be given the possibility to use up to five substitutions during the match, with the possibility of

an additional substitution remaining during extra time, where relevant,” it said.

FIFA added that the substitutions would have to be made in a maximum of three slots plus the halftime interval.

Visa Extends Relationship with Athletes till 2021 Visa is supportive of the IOC and Prime Minister Abe’s decision to postpone the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020 to 2021.

Visa is also committed to

supporting and celebrating our diverse and global roster of 90+ Team Visa athletes.

“We are proud of the programme and the Olympic

and Paralympic hopeful that make up our roster.

“We have offered our Team Visa athletes the opportunity to extend their relationship with

Visa to support them along their new road to Tokyo next year,” observed the statement from Visa, a partner of the Olympic movement yesterday.

Ronaldinho Opens Up on Paraguayan Prison Experience It might seem like he made the most of his 32 days behind bars, between marking his 40th birthday with a massive barbecue and scoring for fun in a prison futsal match, especially since every picture that emerged showed him with that trademark smile on his face.

However, the former Barcelona and Milan superstar says it was a tough time for he and his brother

Roberto, who have been moved to a four-star hotel indefinitely until their trial - on charges of fraud - can be held amid the coronavirus crisis.

“It (going to jail) was a tough blow,” Ronaldinho, 40, told Paraguayan TV, as quoted by ESPN. “I never imagined that I would go through a situation like this. “All of my life I have searched to reach the top level

professionally and to bring joy with my football.

“I hope that they can use and confirm all that we have brought to this case and that we can come out of this situation as soon as possible.”

Ronaldinho and Roberto were arrested by Paraguayan authorities in March for the alleged possession of falsified passports, but a date is unable to be set for their trial

due to the ongoing pandemic.

“We were completely surprised to find out that the documents were not legal.

“Since then, our aim has been to cooperate with the justice [department] in order to clarify the facts as we have done from the beginning. Since that time up to now, we have explained everything and facilitated all that the justice (department) has requested.”

Tuesday April 28, 2020

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& RE A S O

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Price: N250

MISSILE Kwankwaso to Ganduje â&#x20AC;&#x153;Mr. President, in times of crises like this, we require a robust and unifying leadership that will assure the citizens that it understands and shares its concerns; but unfortunately, the state government is even denying that there is unusual surge in the number of deaths in the stateâ&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x201C;Former Governor of Kano State, Alhaji Rabiu Kwankwaso, accusing Governor Abdullahi Ganduje, of laxity in the deaths recorded in the state.

TUESDAY WITH REUBENABATI Coping with Coronanomics abati1990@gmail.com

T

he global economy is in a tailspin.

IMF and the World Bank have both predicted a contraction of the global economy with developing economies likely to be worst affected. This situation is the direct result of the menace of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the energy crisis that the world faces. With many businesses and factories on lockdown, with the tourism and travel industry playing possum, the world is confronted with a GHPDQG DQG VXSSO\ VKRFN DQG D Ă&#x20AC;QDQFLDO and economic shock in addition to a catalytic global health crisis, the end of which no one knows. Commodity dependent countries like Nigeria, Algeria and Angola, in the absence of buffers to deal with endogenous and exogenous shocks are in dire straits. The Micro, Small and Medium Scale Sector is DOVR IDFLQJ VSHFLDO GLIĂ&#x20AC;FXOWLHV ,Q D FRXQWU\ like Nigeria where SMEs account for about 85% of the economy, many businesses are bound to declare bankruptcy or die off, sending millions of persons into the unemployment market. Before COVID-19, Nigeriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s unemployment rate stood at over 23%. This will get worse. Nigeriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s GDP JURZWK SURĂ&#x20AC;OH IRU KDV EHHQ GRZQJUDGHG

Buhari from a possibility of 2.4% to about 1.3%, DQG ZLWK SURMHFWHG FRQWUDFWLRQV RI LQ WKH Ă&#x20AC;UVW TXDUWHU DQG LQ WKH VHFRQG quarter, Nigeriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s economic outlook for DQG EH\RQG LV VHYHUH 0DQ\ RWKHU countries are in a similar situation, even if the degree of vulnerability varies.

Only last week, Arik Air took the decision WR FXW WKH VDODU\ RI LWV VWDII E\ IRU WKH

month of April; by May, it says it will ask RI LWV ZRUNIRUFH WR SURFHHG RQ OHDYH without pay until further notice. Arik Air expects its staff to understand the situation in which the company has found itself.

In March, the Nigerian government shut down the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s airports to prevent the importation of COVID-19 cases into the country. Arik and other airlines, as is the case with other airlines worldwide have not been able to do business or earn regular revenue. Another company, Mikano International Nigeria Ltd., has already sacked RYHU RI LWV ZRUNHUV GXH WR WKH ELWLQJ effect of COVID-19. More companies are bound to take similar steps, to cut cost and ensure business continuity. What makes the situation worse is that the adverse economic impact of Corona Virus is bound to last longer than the disease itself. This is probably the most disruptive aspect of the current global experience.

The effect is already most telling at the individual and household levels. Many have referred to the similarity between COVID-19 and the Spanish Flu pandemic of 1918, but except for a minority of persons who were alive in 1918 and are still alive today, the

fact is that the present generation is totally unfamiliar with a pandemic of this scale.

It is for us, a strange phenomenon. It has disrupted our lives and our world. Many bread winners have lost their bread. In many homes, pronounced poverty has become a reality. As lockdowns continue, families Ă&#x20AC;QG WKHLU UHVRXUFHV EHLQJ GHSOHWHG RU WKH\ sink deeper into debts, as an epidemic of empty pockets rears its head. Thus, a poverty pandemic is certain, especially in developing countries where there are no social safety QHWV RU XQHPSOR\PHQW EHQHĂ&#x20AC;WV DQG ZKHQ that is combined with a COVID-19 pandemic, the consequences could be fatal for society.

Meanwhile, in many African countries, both governments and the people are arguing over whether or not a prolonged lockdown can help check the spread of COVID-19, and how best Africa can adjust its response strategy to basic realities in the continent.

For example, Africa has a huge population of self-employed persons in the informal sector: an army of cab drivers, motorcyclists, barbers, event-centre managers, hairstylists, make up artists, artisans and traders who work Continued on page 22

FROM COLLEAGUES AT DEMOCRAT NEWSPAPERS GUEST COLUMN

Abba Kyari: The Passage of a Good Man

S

ometime early 1987, Mallam Ismaila Isa Funtua, MD, as we fondly called him, EURXJKW DQ LQWLPDWLQJ &9 WR RXU RIĂ&#x20AC;FH at the Democrat newspapers, Kaduna.

The owner of the CV graduated from two of the world most famous universities, Warwick, and behold, Cambridge universities.

The CV was intimidating not only because RI LWV DFDGHPLF KLJK Ă \LQJ FRORXUV EXW PRUH VR WKH SURĂ&#x20AC;OHV RI WKH XQLYHUVLWLHV DWWHQGHG It recorded three degrees, two Bachelors, Sociology and Law and a Masters, also in Law. That Curriculum Vitae bored the name of one Abba Chima Kyari, an Ox-Bridge Alumni.

Weeks later, a rather tall, but slim black man, with two Kanuri marks on his face, came WR RXU RIĂ&#x20AC;FH +H ZDV LQWURGXFHG DV 0DOODP $EED .\DUL +H ZDV LQ ZKLWH DQG UHG FDS (Dara), a mode of dress he maintained almost throughout his life. +H KDG FRPH WR DVVXPH GXW\ DV WKH 'HSXW\ Editor, Democrat (daily) and was to work under an equally indefatigable journalist, Mallam Abdulkarim Albashir, the Editor.

Mallam Albashir was later to be promoted to the post of Editor-In-Chief, while Abba Kyari replaced him as Editor (daily). Mallam Mamman Daura introduced late Abba to Mallam Ismaila Isa Funtua.

Gausu Ahmad, Editor Weekly Democrat was â&#x20AC;&#x153;draftedâ&#x20AC;? to the Democrat stable by another veteran, Alhaji Mohammed Ibrahim, ex- D-G of NTA and FRCN and now the Makama of Ringim, Jigawa State. Gausu

was at that time working with the defunct Concord Press Limited, as Editor Sokoto State Community Concord. Initially, Gausu was reluctant to join the Democrat newspapers as he was reportedly â&#x20AC;&#x153;tired of jumpingâ&#x20AC;? from RQH QHZVSDSHU WR DQRWKHU +H KRZHYHU sought to know who Mallam Ismaila Isa Funtua was from the late Adamu Ciroma.

Ciroma described Mallam Ismaila Isa as an â&#x20AC;&#x153;extremely competentâ&#x20AC;? person. Thus, Gausu Ahmad was persuaded to join the Democrat newspapers. $W WKH Ă&#x20AC;UVW DSSHDUDQFH $EED ZRUH D VWRLF and aristocratic looks. Deep down and at close encounters, however, he was a very humble and humorous person with a lot of SDVVLRQV DQG ORYH IRU WKH GRZQ WURGGHQ +LV sense of humour came out easily when he told stories and engaged in inter-ethnic jokes with the MD, Mallam Ismaila Isa Funtua, the latter being a Bakatsine (Katsina man) and Abba, a Kanuri. Abba would also tell stories and jokes about Fulani and Tivs, especially the Tor Tiv Palace.

By the time Mallam Abba joined the Democrat newspapers, the weekly edition was already in operation.as it had been relaunched months earlier. Late Mallam Abdulkarim Albashir, late Gabriel Abutu, Mr Vincent Ozomaya (Production Manager or PM), Ladi Adamu, (woman Editor) and Gausu Ahmad worked to resuscitate the old Democrat newspaper.

There was also our Chief Sub, Pat, from the old Bendel State. The orientation of the

paper was however changed from its partisan leaning to a more professional journalism under the new leadership of Mallam Isa and Albashir.

At the planning and later staff recruitment level, Mallam Albashir, Mr.Vincent Ozamaya, (PM), Ahmad Rufae Mahmoud(Chief Account), late Gabriel Abutu (Chief-Sub) and Gausu Ahmad would travel to Kuru, Jos, to meet Mallam Ismaila Isa, who was then undergoing his MNI course at the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPS), for strategizing and planning for take-off.

The Democrat newspapers were resuscitated from the rested weekly newspaper that was stillborn at the eve of the collapse of the Nigeriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Second Republic. For the paper ZDV ODXQFKHG RQ )ULGD\ QLJKW WK 'HFHPEHU while the military struck the next night, 31st December, 1983. The defunct New Nigerian newspaper wrote a Candido comment titled â&#x20AC;&#x153;Charles Sharp was hereâ&#x20AC;?, sarcastically comparing the event to the launch of the New Nigerian, whose founder, the late Premier of Northern Region, Sir Ahmadu Bello, was assassinated barely two weeks after the launch of the paper. Coincidently, both newspapers were launched by the same Charles Sharp, a British print media veteran.

So the old Democrat RSHUDWHG Ă HGJLQJO\ XQWLO LW Ă&#x20AC;]]OHG RXW DIWHU RQH RU WZR \HDUV 7KH â&#x20AC;&#x153;newâ&#x20AC;? Democrat, therefore, had the task of not RQO\ UHVWRULQJ WKH FRQĂ&#x20AC;GHQFH RI D GLVDSSRLQWHG audience, but also to compete with the then

dominant New Nigerian Newspapers. Above all, the â&#x20AC;&#x153;newâ&#x20AC;? Democrat set out to create a niche in the southern media space. This was however, a no mean task and herein lies the role of Mallam Abba Kyari.

With his Cambridge intellectual background, legal mind and a high sense of mission and commitment, Abba gave the daily edition a IUHVK ORRN ERWK LQ GHVLJQ DQG FRQWHQW +H was very particular about foreign news and would make sure that Mallam Bello Bashir Gwarzo monitored all the major international radio stations to write foreign news and briefs.

Abba would also insist on the best headlines, layout and design for the paper, often with high intellectual touch. With him, it was never a routine journalistic reporting and commentaries, as with other papers. Indeed, Abba always aimed at perfection in whatever KH GLG +H KHOSHG WR HQVXUH WKDW WKH SDSHUV WRRN OLEHUDO VWDQFH +LV OHJDO EDFNJURXQG VDYHG the Democrat newspapers from many possible OLEHOV DQG XQMXVWLĂ&#x20AC;DEOH FULWLFLVP DJDLQVW DQ\ JRYHUQPHQW RIĂ&#x20AC;FLDOV GHVSLWH VRPH FULWLFDO editorial comments published by the papers.

This was also a good testimony for ex-President Babangidaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tolerance and liberal attitude towards the press.

Mallam Abba helped mentor many junior staff who later became editors and managers in their various media and other organizations.

Two examples were Bello Bashir Gwarzo, Continued on page 22

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