TUESDAY 8TH JUNE 2021

Sanwo-Olu Preaches National Unity, Says Nigeria Stronger as One Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, yesterday rejected the secession agitation by some groups in the South-west and ruled out the break-up of Nigeria.

Speaking on ARISE NEWS

Channel, the broadcast arm of THISDAY Newspapers, the Lagos State governor said there is strength in number.

He urged the over 200 million Nigerians to utilise the numerical strength and the beauty of the diversity of the country to foster

economic prosperity and political stability.

He argued that it is important for fairness and equity to take their rightful places in the governance of the country so that no group is aggrieved or feels sidelined in the running of the country.

Sanwo-Olu said he remained committed to one united and prosperous Nigeria where fairness and equal distribution of resources are the order of the day.

“We are talking about separatists. I have only one passport; there is nowhere I am

going. We are here, we cannot continue to gloss over it and talk about what we want to break away from. Even if any breakaway will start, it will end on a table, so, let’s create that table amongst ourselves and start talking.

“If we understand that

there are different strengths in the room, let equity and fairness come into play, let’s understand what are the things you have that is bothering you and what are the things you don’t have that you want to Continued on page 8

Buhari Seeks Lower Oil Production Costs, Targets 40bn Barrels Reserve... Page 6 Tuesday 8 June, 2021 Vol 26. No 9556. Price: N250

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Analysts Seek Measures to Boost Local Production, Exports... Page 10

Twitter Loses Billions, Nigerians Lose Instant Communication Tools Govt communication system in shambles as agencies return to old, archaic mode of information dissemination Buhari, Osinbajo, MDAs suspend tweeting Akeredolu, el-Rufai, Makinde defy directive Chiemelie Ezeobi in Lagos, Adedayo Akinwale and Michael Olugbode in Abuja Federal government’s suspension of the operation of American micro-blogging company, Twitter, in Nigeria, might have left both in a catch-22 situation as the duo have lost millions of followers that they had built for more

than half a decade.

For Twitter the saga has cost it billions of cash, while Nigerians, in both private and public sectors have lost their means of instant communication.

The Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, had last week Continued on page 8

Uneasy Calm over Buni’s Alleged Plans for APC Chairmanship Media aide dismisses speculation Chuks Okocha and Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja There is rising tension in the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) following an alleged plan by the Chairman of the National Caretaker Committee and Yobe State Governor, Mai

Mala Buni, to transmute to the national chairman of the party, THISDAY has learnt.

THISDAY gathered that Buni’s alleged ambition may have stopped the caretaker committee from announcing dates for national and states Continued on page 8

THE NEW BROOM...

President Muhammadu Buhari (left) and Chief of Army Staff, Maj. Gen. Farouk Yahaya, during his maiden visit to the president in Abuja...yesterday godwin omoigui

CDS, COAS Meet Superior Officers over Retirement Thursday...Page 5

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NEWS

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

CDS, COAS Meet Superior Officers over Retirement Thursday

Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja Twenty-nine army major generals and members of Course 36 of the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) pencilled in for retirement after the appointment of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Maj. Gen. Farouk Yahaya, are expected to meet the army chief and the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Lucky Irabor, on Thursday, THISDAY has learnt.

It was gathered that the generals, who still have three years to go, having served 32 years as against the 35 years requirement before exiting the service complained about the sudden and premature retirement confronting them.

Following the development, the defence chief was said to have invited them to a meeting to iron out the issues on Thursday.

THISDAY also learnt that the affected officers received directives to proceed on a one-month compulsory leave.

"Negotiations are still ongoing on the fate of the Course 36 and 37 officers. They are expected to meet with the CDS on Thursday", a military source said.

Another source said: "They are grumbling and complaining that they were taken unawares.

Some of them had plans that their retirement are due in three years and are planning accordingly, but here they are, being told to proceed on compulsory leave."

THISDAY learnt that the fate of Course 37 members, who are

course mates of the army chief, was still undecided.

There are indications that they may also be asked to leave, depending on the decision of the Nigerian Army Council headed by the Minister of Defence, Major General Bashir Magashi (rtd).

"Members of 37, course mates of COAS are also going to leave to enable him to have command and control over his juniors, Course 38," a source said while noting that those, who

may survive would be sent to the Defence Headquarters and tri-service institutions.

THISDAY learnt that members of Course 35 have already proceeded on retirement.

"Those who will survive in Course 37 will be posted to DHQ and tri-services and the rest whom COAS can't work with will go as well", the source said.

Course 37 members ordinarily should have four years more to spend in the service.

There was controversy yesterday over the retirement or otherwise of the 29 generals in the Nigerian Army.

This followed reports that Course 36 officers, who are senior to Yahaya, were directed via a memo to proceed on compulsory leave.

It was also gathered that the major generals will undertake a one-year course in any local institution of their choice after the conclusion of the leave.

The affected officers include

Maj. Gens. JB Olawumi, JO Akomolafe, CO Ude, G Oyefesobi, MO Uzoh, CC Okonkwo and MSA Aliyu.

Also on the list are UM Mohammed, BM Shafa, NE Angbazo, YP Auta, SA Yaro, J Sarham and HE Ayamasoawei.

Others include: OF Azinta, BA Akinroluyo, KAY Isiyaku, AT Hamman, AM Aliyu, HPZ Vintienagba, HR Momoh, JR Unuigbe, AA Jidda, OI Uzomere, MH Magaji, LA Adegboye, MA Masanawa, OA Akinyemi and

AM Dauda.

Defence Headquarters at a briefing last week had said there was no retirement of generals in the army, saying retirement of generals was voluntary.

Spokesman of the Nigerian Army, Brigadier-General Mohammed Yerima, also denied the retirement issue in an interview with THISDAY. "There's no retirement. Have we issued any statement to that effect? It is not true, it is fake news", he said.

FUTURE OF HYDROCARBON...

L-R: Speaker, House of Representatives, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila; Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Mr. Timipre Sylva; Group Managing Director, Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, Malam Mele Kyari; and President of the Senate, Dr. Ahmad Lawan, at the ongoing Nigeria International Petroleum Summit in Abuja…yesterday

INEC: We Are Working on Cost of 2023 Elections To publish list of new polling units next week Iyobosa Uwugiaren and Chuks Okocha in Abuja The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has said it is still working on the financial requirements for 2023 general elections.

The federal government had approved N234.5 billion for the conduct of 2019 general elections and there are strong indications that 2023 elections would cost more.

The commission has also stated that a comprehensive list of the new polling units would be published next week.

INEC’s National Commissioner and Chairman of Information and Voter Education, Mr. Festus Okoye, told THISDAY yesterday that it was too early to give an exact figure of the cost of the 2023 election.

He said the cost would depend on a number of variables, including the ongoing Electoral Act amendment.

He said: "It depends on a number of variables. It may be higher, if the law is amended and the commission decides to deploy Electronic Voting Machines.

"The commission is auditing its sensitive and non-sensitive materials in all the states of the federation and the headquarters.

Thereafter, the commission will determine the shortfalls and

make the necessary projections.

Definitely, some of the materials needed will be procured ahead of time. We are working on all fronts but it is too early to determine and have a holistic picture of our financial requirements for 2023.”

On the losses incurred from attacks by gunmen, he said the commission could not take inventory of the damage due to the security situation in the affected areas.

"It’s difficult to put a figure to what the commission lost or has lost in the attacks. Some of the burnt facilities are still under security cordon and our staff cannot access some of them. Some of them involve estimating the present cost of the buildings, sensitive and non-sensitive materials.

It involves estimating the cost of furniture and other burnt materials. Our Resident Electoral Commissioners are still compiling and making attempts to reach some of the facilities.

"You must recognise that there are security challenges in the affected areas and the safety of our staff is paramount."

INEC also said a comprehensive list of the new polling units would be published next week.

It has also unveiled new fire-fighting machines to help protect the offices of

the commission against arson.

The Chairman of the commission, Professor Mahood Yakubu, said yesterday in Abuja at the deployment of details of the locations of the registration centres and the procedure for the commencement of online registration would also be made available after a series of regular consultative meetings with stakeholders next week.

Speaking on the deployment of the fire engine to the commission, Yakubu said as a member of the Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security (ICCES), the Federal Fire Service and other security agencies have been concerned about the recent attacks on our offices across the country.

He added: “This is particularly so because out of the 42 attacks on our facilities nationwide, 18 incidents resulted from arson and three more by a combination of arson and vandalism.

“It will be recalled that concerned by these incidents, the commission convened an emergency meeting of ICCES last week at which the security agencies renewed their determination to collaborate more with the commission to address this challenge beyond the routine protection of INEC assets and the security of its officials, voters, observers, the

media, candidates and their agents during elections.

“On its part, the Federal Fire Service offered to deploy additional state-of-the-art fire engine to the INEC headquarters to complement the two existing trucks. At the same

time, it directed its state offices to take additional protective measures around other INEC facilities nationwide.”

He added that the inauguration of the new fire engine is another affirmation of the support to the commission

from the Federal Fire Service whose personnel have been deployed permanently to the commission, and would continue to operate and maintain the fire engines and other fire-fighting equipment installed by INEC.

NIGERIA, TWITTER AND OTHER STORIES “Sure? Have you visited Omoyele Sowore who got a small warning for talking about Revolution? Na ordinary tear gas cannister one Nigerian police woman take joke with am the other day oh, and him get wound.

If anybody tries any protest on June 12, these government people, na armoured tanks dem go take send message oh.”

“They will attack Nigerians with armoured tanks? The same tanks that they can’t deploy to fight insurgents and terrorists?

We don’t ever get our priorities right. Who advises government?”

“Nigerians like you and I. The ones who don’t want to go to Oduduwa Republic, Biafra or the proposed UAR. The pushme-I-push-am, na here I go dey crowd. “ “When something is not working, allow it to develop a rhythm of its own. It is possible to renegotiate the expired amalgamation of Nigeria. What are we afraid of? I’d rather die” “Why not? It is sweet and fitting to die for one’s country.

But don’t commit suicide.”

“Those of you who do not want a new reality can stay in Nigeria and die in it. Some of us are ready to have a new country.

Even Daddy G.O. Adeboye has joined us. Pastor Kumuyi too.”

“You people have a hidden agenda” “Oh, are you now afraid to die inside Nigeria?”

“No. Our Lord Jesus Christ saved the faithful with His Blood on the Mount of Calvary. Every living being, every good thing, will pass away and the world will be renewed. What we can do is to watch and pray.”

“Watch and obey. Your kind obeys every government commandment.”

“Pastor Temitope Joshua of the Synagogue Church of All Nations (SCOAN) just ascended to the Heavens to join the Saints Triumphant. His death leaves a very strong message for Nigeria.”

“Are you okay?”

“Have you not noticed that all the Saints, in our midst, are returning to Heaven, one after the other? They are leaving Nigeria.

Can’t you see it?”

“What I see is that the demons have seized control” “Be careful. These are dangerous times.”

“So when are you leaving, Mr Saint, so you can go and join Twitter Nigeria in Purgatory.” “Ï shall not die any death.”

“Then keep safe and stop knocking your head against people who have served notice that they will shock anybody like potent electricity.”

“Bad sign. What will tomorrow bring?”

“Let tomorrow worry about itself. Most of the people who claim they will die for Nigeria have dual citizenship, multiple visas in their passports, an open ticket to other countries, and foreign bank accounts. The only thing you have is your mouth.

When things get rough, they will be gone in a jiffy. My friend, don’t end up as an unknown corpse. Dem don warn you well, well oh, make you borrow yourself sense na im remain. This our Nigeria no balance again”.

“No. We no go gree oh. We no go gree.”

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NEWS

Buhari Seeks Lower Oil Production Costs, Targets 40bn Barrels Reserve Kyari: We must do things differently Barkindo calls for transparency Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja President Muhammadu Buhari yesterday called on the operators of Nigeria’s oil and gas industry to search for more efficient ways of exploiting the commodity to reduce the cost of production per barrel.

He said at the fourth edition of the Nigeria International Petroleum Summit (NIPS) in Abuja that although Nigeria is observing the trend in the global movement toward renewables, he is optimistic that oil would remain relevant in the coming years.

According to him, his administration’s drive for the discovery of more reserves and ramping up oil production is irrevocable.

The president, represented by the Minister of State for Petroleum, Mr. Timipre Sylva, stated that his administration has demonstrated commitment to the overhauling of the oil and gas industry to make it fit for the future.

Other speakers at the event included the Managing Director, Total E&P, Mr Mike Sangster; Senate President, Dr. Ahmad Lawan; Speaker, House of Representatives, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, and other stakeholders in the industry from other African nations.

Buhari said he had continued to receive updates on the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB) and expressed the hope that the National Assembly would pass it into law soon.

“The ambitious goal of ramping up crude oil production to at least four million barrels per day, and building a reserve of 40 billion barrels remains sacrosanct and guiding principle to our overall outlook for the industry, creating a conducive business environment for hydrocarbon industry to thrive is no longer a choice. It is a necessity,” he added.

The president said the accelerated and unprecedented oil demand disruption and the supply glut that generated the crisis in the global economy had presented both challenges and opportunities.

While calling for stringent measures to reduce production cost, Buhari stated that if strategies are not quickly put in place, the country may witness a situation in which expected oil revenues will be wiped out by costs.

“In this regard, lower cost is critical. Cost is the energy of the future. The industry needs to drive down costs per barrel before it is exterminated by prices falling below production costs, a phenomenon we experienced at the outset of the pandemic,” he said.

He added that given that about 80 per cent of the global energy mix by 2040 will still be a hydrocarbon, Nigeria cannot turn its back yet on more exploration, as the discovery of new fields remains crucial.

The president said the industry needed to address short-term opportunities using existing technologies that could extend the life of mature fields, adding that nobody should doubt his commitment in that regard, given the bold move to issue new more marginal field licences recently.

According to him, the immediate challenge is that the global agenda for energy transition is slightly taking the backseat of governments across the world, which is now more focused on managing the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on economies than the quest for the energy transition.

“However, energy transition is real, renewable technologies are getting cheaper and investors are increasingly conscious of environmental issues and are beginning to turn their back on hydrocarbon investments, but history has

shown that human beings have such an appetite for energy, which renewables do not have the capacity to cope with in the foreseeable future.

“Experts project that about 80 per cent of the world’s energy mix in 2040 will still come from hydrocarbons. Fossil fuels will continue to be the source of dozens of petrochemicals and petrochemical feedstock that companies transform into versatile and valued materials for modern life,” he said.

He expressed the hope that the hydrocarbon industry will still remain a multi-trillion dollar industry in the coming decades, especially for a country with a vast hydrocarbon potential like Nigeria.

In his remarks, the Group Managing Director, Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), Mallam Mele Kyari, described cost as “everything” in the future of the industry.

He stated that the COVID-19 crisis has shown that only the best of producers will survive because cost control has become a major issue for the industry.

He, however, added that the

corporation and its partners were working together to make sure that it is achieved.

He mentioned funding as another major issue in the industry today due to the paucity of resources across the globe and overall reluctance by investing companies or banking authorities to divest from oil-related businesses.

“This is what we have to live with and what we have to contend with. Obviously, the best of the business that will survive are the ones that try to translate into much more climate-friendly businesses,” he said.

Kyari added that security remains a major issue for the industry in the country, but assured stakeholders that there is a concerted effort across the industry in the Niger Delta and all other locations to make sure that all the security threats are dealt with.

He stated that the industry must work together to look at advantages that are inherent in the transition, while moving from fossil fuels to renewables energy.

He said: “And to do this, you must automate, you must reduce your cost, you must be more efficient and also, we must be more collaborative in our approaches and this has paid off for us.

“Ultimately, this crisis that we face in the industry is surely an opportunity for us to do many things differently, and particularly more so in our country to see where the enormous gas resources can be converted to value and join the journey to blue and green hydrogen.”

Secretary-General of the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), Dr. Sanusi Barkindo, in his address, stated that participating countries have taken proactive and pre-emptive actions to help reduce volatility, stabilise the oil market, and provide a flexible platform for recovery with potentially broader participation in the coming years.

He added that countries have reviewed the decisions on a monthly basis to proactively anticipate market developments and improve the core principles

upon which the oil enterprise was founded.

He listed the principles as transparency, equity and fairness, emphasising that conformity levels with the production adjustments have been a testimony to the depth of member countries' commitment.

He added: “After the unprecedented turmoil of last year, in recent months we have seen relative stability in the oil market. The market has continued to react positively to the decisions we took, including the upward adjustments of production levels beginning in May this year.

“Overall conformity to the production adjustments was 114 per cent in April 2021, reinforcing the trend of high conformity by the participating countries.”

He said despite the positives, the uncertainties remained, such as the continuing high number of COVID-19 cases in some countries; the uneven vaccine rollout, particularly when looking at the developed versus the developing world.

ON THE MORNING SHOW...

L-R: Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu; and ARISE NEWS anchors, Ms. Tundun Abiola and Dr. Reuben Abati, during the governor’s appearance on the channel’s The Morning Show in Lagos…yesterday

Again, 30 Feared Killed By Herdsmen in Agatu Atiku decries killings in Nigeria Chuks Okocha in Abuja and George Okoh in Makurdi Over 30 people were on Sunday killed by suspected Fulani herdsmen in an attack on Odugbeho village in Agatu Local Government Area of Benue State.

According to a resident of the community, Mr. Isaac Oche, the death rate could be more as more bodies were being recovered from the bush and other settlements.

This is coming as former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has condemned what he described as the unprovoked daily killings and maiming of Nigerians.

He stated that the herdsmen invaded their village around 5:45 pm and started shooting sporadically.

According to him, the attackers disappeared into the bush around 6:40 pm after the

killings.

He added that when most of them who escaped the attack came back, they discovered 11 bodies at the village centre.

They also saw other nine bodies on the roadside but couldn't evacuate them for fear of being attacked.

Oche, who spoke to THISDAY late Sunday night, said they believed more bodies would be recovered by yesterday.

"We cannot stay any longer to recover all the dead bodies this night because it is dark and no security. I believe more bodies will be recovered when the day breaks and security agents are around," he said.

He added that the herdsmen were believed to have come from Nasarawa State, through the neighbouring local government of Gwer West in a guerrilla-style, and took them unaware.

He attributed the high number of casualties to the fact that it was on Sunday and most people were at home.

Corroborating the first eyewitness account, another eyewitness, Iyu Goche, said he was one of the youths that searched and recovered the bodies, adding that the death toll may rise later.

According to him, herdsmen from Nasarawa have been invading the riverine areas of Guma, Makurdi and Agatu local government areas, killing many people and displacing thousands of inhabitants.

"They are currently occupying the deserted villages, denying inhabitants access to their farms in the ongoing cropping season".

However, the Agatu Local Government Chairman, Mr. Sule Adoyi, said 27 bodies had been recovered from the community.

He said more search was

going on, adding that security agents have been informed over the killings.

The Benue State Police Command confirmed the killing, saying the death toll is yet to be determined.

The Police Public Relation Officer, Sewuese Anene, a Deputy Superintendent of Police, said: "The attack is confirmed and the commissioner of police has deployed more police officers to manage the incident and forestall further breakdown of law and order.

Number of victims is yet to be ascertained as officers are still engaged in stabilising the area.”

Meanwhile, Atiku has condemned the daily killings and maiming of Nigerians.

In a statement yesterday by his media office in Abuja, the former vice president expressed dismay at the level of bloodletting in the country,

for which he said, "there can be no justification."

Atiku's reaction was necessitated by last Thursday's killing of 88 persons in Kebbi State, with many still missing or unaccounted for, in a state that is yet to recover from the boat mishap that claimed the lives of over 100 people.

He was also reacting to the reported killing of persons in states like Niger and Imo, with the attack on a police station in Delta State; the yesterday’s killing of 22 persons in Igangan in Oyo State with yet, another reported attack that has claimed scores of lives in Zamfara State.

Atiku expressed deep concerns about how far criminals are willing to go, but "most worryingly, how we, as citizens, can continue to absorb these shocks unabatedly."

He expressed concern about the depreciating value of human

life in the country.

Atiku stated that all the negative activities have debilitated national development and democracy.

He added that no nation can witness any meaningful growth in the midst of worsening insecurity.

While noting the efforts of the nation’s security agencies in battling criminals, Atiku urged them not to rest on their oars.

He urged the government and the security agencies to place greater priority on the protection of lives and property of the citizens, "being the first line charge of duty to the citizens."

Atiku acknowledged that the fight against insecurity can be herculean in terms of human and financial resources, but added that "it’s a course that as a nation, we have no choice but to face it headlong."

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PAGE EIGHT TWITTER LOSES BILLIONS, NIGERIANS LOSE INSTANT COMMUNICATION TOOLS

announced the suspension of Twitter after the firm deleted some aspects of President Muhammadu Buhari’s tweet, which the company found to be in breach of its rules.

Following searing attacks of the suspension by social activists, who said it was an abuse of Nigerians’ freedom of expression as guaranteed by Section 39 (1) of the Constitution as altered, Muhammed added an extra reason for the act, saying the temporary prohibition of the internet platform was a response to the firm’s persistent violation of the nation’s national security interest.

The suspension order had attracted a directive from the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), asking all Telcos and broadcasting media to deactivate their Twitter handles and block access to the internet facility.

Many Nigerians, have, however, circumvented the federal government’s blockage of the microblogging facility, resorting to the virtual private network (VPN) to connect Twitter.

Although THISDAY’s checks showed that Buhari, his deputy, Prof.

Yemi Osinbajo (SAN), and many government agencies, including the armed forces, ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs), have suspended tweeting, some

governors including Malam Nasir el-Rufai (Kaduna), Mr. Rotimi Akeredolu (Ondo) and Mr. Seyi Makinde (Oyo) have continued to tweet in defiance of the federal government’s directive.

Analysts, however, told THISDAY yesterday that both the federal government and Twitter must be feeling the rough edges of the suspension as they suffer its adverse effect.

For the Nigerian government, its agencies and millions of private sector users of the micro-blogging facility, it amounts to a loss of an instant communication tool, which had helped to facilitate the dissemination and receipt of information necessary for the conduct of their businesses.

Buhari, for instance, said an analyst, has lost millions of his followers that it has taken him six years to build.

“He may have to start afresh when he returns to the site,” he said.

Agencies like Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) that had used its Twitter handle to instantly communicate with the public information on the COVID-19 pandemic, would now have to revert to other pre-Twitter messaging platforms, including e-mail, Facebook, WhatsApp and Instagram that are not as fast, another analyst

explained last night.

A day after Mohammed announced the suspension of Twitter's operations in Nigeria, the AttorneyGeneral of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Mr. Abubakar Malami, had warned that violators of the ban would be prosecuted.

But senior lawyers have questioned the legality of Malami’s order, saying that it is not grounded in law, adding that Nigerians could not be prosecuted for offences not specified by law.

To calm the global outrage that the suspension of Twitter has generated, the federal government yesterday met with ambassadors of the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, the European Union and Ireland in Nigeria and sought their understanding on its suspension of Twitter's operations in Nigeria.

But save for the First Lady, Hajia Aisha Buhari, who deactivated her Twitter handle following the suspension of Twitter's operations in the country, Buhari, Osinbajo and some other top government officials still retained their accounts, although they're inactive.

However, the federal government's directive suspending Twitter's operations in Nigeria was

silent on whether or not Nigerians should deactivate their accounts.

But a directive yesterday by the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) had directed road and television stations in the country to de-install their Twitter accounts.

Checks by THISDAY yesterday showed that Twitter accounts belonging to government Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) are also being retained.

Some of the accounts being retained belong to the Foreign Affairs Minister, Chief Geoffrey Onyema; Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN); and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA).

Others include the Nigerian Police, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), the Super Eagles, the official Twitter account of Nigerian football team; and the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF), among many others.

While most of these accounts are not active, the same cannot be said of their aides who have bypassed the networks to tweet with their Virtual Private Network (VPN).

Also active are Twitter accounts of former Senators Shehu Sani and Dino Melaye, as well as el-Rufai who tweeted the link of a

story on "Nigeria: African country teaches US lesson in how to handle Big Tech tyranny — RT Op-ed."

While Akeredolu's last tweet, on the attack on Igangan community in Oyo State was at 7.11 pm on Sunday, Makinde, at 9.45 am, on Sunday, tweeted to urge for calm over the attack on Igangan.

Also, most churches are still active on Twitter with both Deeper Life Bible Church and Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), justifying their accounts being active on the grounds that they need to reach congregants in other countries.

The RCCG, in a clarification, said: "The Redeemed Christian Church of God is domiciled in more than 170 nations & territories. The tweets here are in accordance with Article 19 of the UN Universal Declaration of Human Rights."

Article 19 of the UDHR said: "Everyone has the right to freedom of opinion and expression; this right includes freedom to hold opinions without interference and to seek, receive and impart information and ideas through any media and regardless of frontiers."

Also, the Deeper Life General Overseer, Pastor Williams Kumuyi said: "In

view of the Twitter ban in Nigeria, please note that the content shared on this handle is targeted at a global audience in more than five continents and over 100 nations and we share the content from any of these locations."

FG Seeks Support of US, UK, Others over Twitter's Suspension The federal government yesterday sought the understanding of the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, the European Union and Ireland over its suspension of Twitter's operations in Nigeria.

It, however, gave conditions to lift the suspension.

Also yesterday, Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, called for a speedy resolution of the dispute.

Addressing a press conference after a meeting with the five representatives of the missions in Abuja, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Onyeama, said they had a discussion concerning the issues of Twitter ban and based on the joint press statement earlier made by the missions.

Continued on page 10

SANWO-OLU PREACHES NATIONAL UNITY, SAYS NIGERIA STRONGER AS ONE have and let’s be able to resolve it.

“It is not by saying that we want to go (our separate ways).

Oduduwa nation, when they come, they will now realise that even Egba, Ijebu and Ekiti, also want to break away, they will never see an end to that because every clan and every

race will also want something and that is where it is difficult.

“There is strength in number, let us utilise that strength and be able to work for all of us. It is when it is not working and it is perceived as nepotism, that is when people agitate.

If we are fair and have a seat for everyone, we can take this

country forward. Nobody wants a war. We never know how war will end. Who is going to take us? Over 200 million people? Please, let’s be sincere and be real with ourselves.”

Sanwo-Olu urged the National Assembly to implement the desires of the

people in the amendment of 1999 Constitution.

“Let’s commend the leadership of the National Assembly and let us hope that they will take these commendations and this big, bold step to a logical conclusion.”

He also insisted on fiscal

federalism, devolution of power, and restructuring to allow the sub-nationals to function optimally.

“The Federal Government is really just too big. Let’s just say it. It’s got over a thousand agencies. It’s big and it really doesn’t have a state; it is still federal.

“Let us know what the sub-nationals can do. The state governments, the local governments, are closer to the people; let them be able to deal with these issues (while the Federal Government) deal with what is uniting all of us – foreign affairs – internal security, let’s do it,” he added.

party to seek further extension, the National Secretary of the party, Senator John Akpanudoedehe, said "no comment."

But a party source, who pleaded anonymity, told THISDAY that conducting party congresses and convention this month was not feasible, as there is no road map.

He stated: "The president has not agreed with what the caretaker committee is trying to do as regards another elongation. The president is still adamant, he has not said anything. He is waiting for them to convince him.

"If we want to conduct the congress, it starts from the ward to the local government to the state. It is those who emerge from these congresses that will form the national delegates to the convention.

But we have not done any of this and there is no date scheduled for it at the moment."

The party source added ward congress will take a week or two, same as local government congresses and state congresses.

He said there would also be an appeal for ward, local and state congresses which would take two weeks each.

The source added: "Now we are in Lagos to authenticate the membership register for it to be used for the primary election, which we are in the process. We have done that of Ogun, we are now in Lagos.

We have not authenticated that of other states, how do

you now expect a congress to come up."

Asked if the membership register was authenticated by the party officials before the primary, he replied: "They didn't use it, they by-passed it.

If there is any litigation against them, they will win in court.

They didn't use the approved membership register; they falsified the one they used.

Even in Abeokuta, they are falsified."

The source stated that there is no way the party can conduct congress without authenticating and finalising the registration of new members.

UNEASY CALM OVER BUNI’S ALLEGED PLANS FOR APC CHAIRMANSHIP congresses in the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory to usher in new party leadership.

Sources familiar with the power game in the party told THISDAY that Buni’s game plan is to resign his position as governor and join the race for the party’s national chairman.

He's billed to end second term tenure in May 2023.

But in a swift response, Buni dismissed the claim, saying he has no intention to resign his position as governor.

The caretaker committee was given up to this month to conduct a national convention and states' congresses after a reconciliation of the members as well as the revalidation of membership registers.

The sources said a selfsuccession motive by Buni to become the substantive national chairman is currently stalling moves to hold a national convention.

However, many of the governors elected on the platform of the party are said to be opposed to Buni’s bid to transform into the substantive chairman of the party.

The APC governors opposed to the Buni’s ambition, it was learnt, are those who would be rounding off their second term in office by 2023.

Also, the ministers who have political ambitions by 2023 are opposed to the transmutation plans of Buni and some selected members of the APC caretaker committee.

THISDAY gathered that a National Executive Committee (NEC) of the party would soon be summoned.

A special NEC meeting of the APC in June 2020 had appointed Buni, a former national secretary of the party, as chairman of the caretaker committee following the leadership crisis triggered by the suspension of the then National Chairman of the party, Mr. Adams Oshiomhole.

The caretaker committee was given a six-month mandate to organise a convention that would elect a new National Working Committee (NWC).

But the committee sought and was granted a six-month extension to complete its mandate.

But after 12 months in office, no date has been announced for the election of the executive committee members.

THISDAY also gathered that the Buni-led caretaker committee has begun to plan another meeting of NEC to seek an elongation of its tenure.

A member of the committee that spoke to THISDAY in confidence said there is a plot for the Buni committee to seek an elongation or an outright self-perpetuation of members in office.

The argument, the source said, would be that an election from ward to states and eventually, national convention in the party would further divide the party at a time when it should be consolidating in the states ahead of the 2023 general election.

He added: “It was against this backdrop that some

committee members, albeit with the consent of Buni, were considering presenting to the NEC that he should rather resign as governor and continue at the national convention, where he would be affirmed as the substantive national chairman of the party.”

The source stated that since his emergence as caretaker committee chairman, Buni has not spent up to four days a week in Yobe State as he stays in Abuja most of the time.

Before winning the election to become the governor, he was the national secretary of APC when Oshiomhole was the national chairman.

“Although this has not been tabled before the NEC, members of the party, who should know, were already protesting against the idea of members self-perpetuating themselves under any guise,” the source said.

Some of the APC members who did not want to be quoted said they had concluded plans to seek legal action against any plans by the committee members to self-perpetuate themselves in office.

Another member told THISDAY that the Buni committee has already overstayed its welcome.

A member of the committee also confirmed the selfsuccession bid, saying: “We were appointed to right the wrongs of Adams Oshiomhole, and not this idea of not announcing the dates for the wards, local government,

states and national convention.

“Anything outside announcing the dates of the national convention and other dates for the states congresses is outside our mandate. If by the next month, there is no date announced for the elections, I will speak out and also resign. What is happening is not our mandate.

“We were appointed in June 2020 and our mandate was renewed in December to end in June. Any further plan to seek an extension or perpetuate us in office, count me out.”

But in a swift response, Buni dismissed the allegation of self- perpetuation, saying he has no intention to resign his position as the governor of Yobe State to become the substantive chairman of the party.

Buni's Director of Media, Mr. Mamman Mohammed, said he already has a job, and he is not looking for another one.

He said: "It is a blatant lie; it is just a fabrication. The governor has a job, which he's doing and he is not looking for any other job. It is not even worth responding because it does not even get an inch close to anything obtainable with the governor.

"The task before him is to build a viable and vibrant political party; organise a very successful congress and convention and handover the party to elected officials."

When contacted yesterday on the purported plan to convey NEC meeting of the

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Analysts Seek Measures to Boost Local Production, Exports Nigeria records N3.94tn deficit in foreign trade in Q1 James Emejo in Abuja Analysts yesterday called on the federal government to address structural factors, which have jacked up the cost of production of goods, thereby encouraging importation over local production.

The advice came on the heels of the country's N3.94 trillion trade deficit in goods in its external merchandise trade for the first quarter of the year, following higher level of imports over exports.

However, total trade increased to N9.76 trillion during the review period, representing 6.99 per cent rise over the N9.12 trillion recorded in Q4 2020.

The analysts in separate interviews with THISDAY urged the federal government to also narrow the trade imbalance by making exports more attractive than imports, adding that "though devaluation becomes a tool in achieving this."

Among other recommendations, they urged the government to invest in value addition to raw materials and agricultural produce as well as create a conducive environment for manufacturers.

According to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), Nigeria's total external merchandise increased to N9.76

trillion in the first quarter of the year, representing a 6.99 per cent rise over the N9.12 trillion recorded in the preceding quarter.

This also represented a 14.13 per cent increase compared to N8.55 trillion recorded in Q1 2020.

The Foreign Trade in Goods Statistics (Q1 2021), the report released yesterday by the statistical agency showed that the export component of trade stood at N2.91 trillion, representing 29.79 per cent of the total trade.

Import was valued at N6.85 trillion or 70.21 per cent of total trade.

However, the higher level of imports over exports resulted in a trade deficit in goods of N3.94 trillion, the NBS added.

The value of crude oil export stood at N1.92 trillion, representing 66.38 per cent of the total export in the review period. Non crude oil export accounted for 33.62 per cent of the total export.

The total value of trade in agricultural goods in Q1 stood at N757.4 billion, with the export component amounting to N127.2 billion. The import was valued at N630.2 billion.

The value of manufactured goods trade stood at N4.78 trillion, representing 49.01 per cent of total trade. The export component accounted for N250.4 billion while the

import component was valued at N4.53 trillion.

By country, most goods were exported to India, with their value totalling N488.1 billion or 16.8 per cent of exports. Spain's share of trade was N287.2billion or 9.9 per cent), China N190.1 billion or 6.5 per cent and The Netherlands N160.billion or 5.5 per cent.

In terms of regional trade, Nigeria exported most products to Asia, which accounted for N1.13 trillion, Europe N997.79 billion, America N316.62 billion, and Africa N449.84 billion. Also, goods worth N282.2 billion were exported to ECOWAS. However, speaking on the performance, analysts said the current insecurity in the country continued to pose a significant barrier to general economic growth.

The Managing Director/ Chief Executive, Credent Investment Managers Limited, Mr. Ibrahim Shelleng, said given Nigeria's current economic situation, "we cannot continue with this trajectory of relying on imports for the most basic things."

He said importation is presently discouraging local production and putting a strain on foreign reserves as well as weakening the economy.

Shelleng said structural constraints should be addressed to reduce cost of local production, which remained significantly high.

He said: "Whilst the structural challenges may require a long term approach to resolve, the government could adopt a backward integration mechanism that will seek to add value to key sectors and encourage more investment and participation."

He also advocated the provision of secured hubs that allow for the production of the most valued exports, adding that once producers and processors in these hubs are able to efficiently produce, process and export, this would attract more players and greater investment.

He added: "Nigeria needs to address its foreign trade by adding value to goods before they are exported and that can only happen by improving the structural challenges that limit production in the country.

"We export raw materials for a pittance and import the finished goods at 10 times the price. Nobody needs a PhD in Economics to see that as a major issue."

He added that while the COVID-19 lockdown and border closures would have had an impact on the trade figures, the increase in food importation could be attributed

to the multiple issues plaguing the agricultural sector, which limited production and necessitated increased imports.

On his part, Managing Director/Chief Executive, Dignity Finance and Investmemt Limited, Dr. Chijioke Ekechukwu, said as a matter of urgency, the country should refine its petroleum products to reduce heavy foreign exchange payments for importation.

According to him, insecurity has continued to cause major havoc to the economy, while urging the government to take proactive steps to subdue it.

Ekechukwu called for incentives for exporters and less for importers, adding that tariffs and taxes can be used as tools to achieve the objectives.

He said: "Much as we have experienced a growth in our international trade trajectory, though marginal, this tells us that we could have done far better under a normal secure environment.

"That our import constitutes 70.21 per cent of our international trade and export, 29.79 per cent explains why our currency continues to be devalued.

"The demand for the foreign currency can not be matched substantially by supply from export. This figures show that we are an import-dependent

economy."

Similarly, Managing Director/Chief Executive, SD&D Capital Management Limited, Mr. Idakolo Gbolade, said the country's trade performance could be better.

According to him, increased importation has continuously put a strain on the foreign exchange balance.

He said the country should deepen relationship with its major export partners while ensuring that countries like the USA are brought back to the group of major export partners.

Gbolade said Nigeria must take advantage of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) and other measures offered by the US government to improve export.

He said: "We must also look critically at the African Free Trade Agreement and use it to our advantage in exporting goods to African countries.

"From the trade statistics, agricultural export, manufactured goods and non-oil products increased in export percentage performance, which really buttressed my point that if Nigeria can add value to our raw materials and agricultural produce and create a conducive environment for our manufacturers, then the trend can change to our advantage."

comments on the suspension.

The missions had in a joint statement condemned the suspension.

Broadcasting Commission directs all broadcasting stations in Nigeria to suspend the patronage of Twitter immediately.

“In compliance to the above directive, broadcasting stations are hereby advised to de-install Twitter handles and desist from using Twitter as a source (UGC) of information gathering for news and programmes presentation, especially phone-in.

“Section 2(1) of the NBC Act entrusts the Commission with the responsibility to ensure strict adherence to the national laws, rules and regulations. Also, Section 3.11.2 of Nigeria Broadcasting Code provides that “the broadcaster shall ensure that law enforcement is upheld at all times in a matter depicting that law and order are socially superior to or more desirable than crime and anarchy.

“Attention is also drawn to section 5.6.3 of the Code which requires Broadcasters to be mindful of materials that may cause disaffection, incite panic or rift in the society in the use of usergenerated content (UGC).

“Note that it will be unpatriotic for any broadcaster in Nigeria to continue to patronise the suspended Twitter as a source of its information therefore strict compliance is enjoined.”

TWITTER LOSES BILLIONS, NIGERIANS LOSE INSTANT COMMUNICATION TOOLS He said: “We had a useful discussion with the countries that are considered to be close friends and partners of Nigeria. We sat down and reviewed the whole situation and we stated the security concern of Mr. President and the whole Nigerians and the very strong steps we’ve taken to address the security challenges of the country.”

Onyeama said they presented first-hand information about the security challenges of the country and also the role of the social media.

He stated that social media is good for dissemination of information, but it can also be used for good and the bad.

He added that the bad side of it has dire consequences on human lives and property.

According to him, it is germane to keep the unity of the country and to achieve all these, a decision has to be taken and measures put in place to ensure the social platforms are used responsibly.

He said as a democracy, the issue of fundamental human rights was expected to be respected, especially freedom of speech, adding that this should not be allowed to bring the country down.

He stated that the five missions and their countries have been supporting

Nigeria even with its security and development challenges.

He said: “We have been having partnership and solidarity with the five countries. They have supported us very strongly in our security challenges, humanitarian crisis, development challenges and economic challenges, so we can say that these countries are our partners.

We are asking them to also support us as we continue to confront all these challenges.

"We have listened to them and they also have their views on all of these issues and we gave them the opportunities to also expressed themselves.

“We are particularly gratified with the statement and reassurance of support and friendship towards Nigeria. We have to keep an eye on the main objective of this government, when Mr. President was elected, security was number one of his priorities and it is something he really wants to be able to deliver for Nigeria.

“Without security, everything else fails, investments go out of the country, regular migration out, it will be a vicious cycle.

“We will all be losers and our children, generation to come will all be affected.

What we do today will really determine the future of this country. That is why

this government gives priority to security, that this government would have to live in peace and security.

And we have to keep our country together.

“What we have done today, will really define the future of the country and that is why Mr. “President is absolutely determined that security has been made and Nigerians have to live in peace and security and that we have to keep our country together. We listened to each other and clarified some areas.”

Onyeama, however, said the government was already discussing with Twitter on lifting the suspension.

He said: "As you yourself have said, discussions are ongoing with Twitter, we want to see how that progresses. So I cannot say for now the duration of the suspension. There are conversations with our partners and with social media.

“The basic condition is really responsible communication. We know the power of words and the power of words for good and the power of words for bad. You know when you have that kind of power to manage and facilitate the communication of billions of people around the world; it has to come with responsibilities.

Absolutely, it has to come

with responsibilities. So the condition will be a responsible use of media and that really has to be adhered to.”

In her response on behalf of the five missions, the US Ambassador to Nigeria, Mary Beth- Leonard, said: “I will say that first of all that we recognise that there are issues of responsible use of social media but we remain firm on our position that free access to the ability to express one’s self is actually very important perhaps on one part, but also at trouble times.”

She urged Nigeria to identify those who commit crimes and use judicial processes to deal with offenders, adding “but to constrain, that is not the behaviour.”

The envoy added that they were glad to hear that Nigeria was interacting with Twitter.

On the challenges confronting the country, she said: “I think we made that statement very clear that we are Nigeria’s strong partners. We recognise the daunting times in the area of security challenges that confronts Nigeria. Well, they are daunting, they are not insurmountable and part of the way you surmount them is through partnership.”

The federal government had earlier summoned the envoys over their recent

NBC Orders Broadcast Stations to Suspend Twitter Patronage The National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) has ordered all broadcast stations to suspend the patronage of Twitter with immediate effect.

NBC said the decision followed the suspension of Twitter operations in Nigeria by the federal government over the persistent use of the platform for activities that could undermining the corporate existence of Nigeria.

The acting DirectorGeneral of the NBC, Prof.

Armstrong Idachaba, in a statement directed the broadcast stations to “deinstall Twitter handles and desist from using Twitter as a source (UGC) of information gathering for news and programmes presentation especially phone-in.”

He added: “Consequent on the suspension of Twitter operations in Nigeria by the federal government over the persistent use of the platform for activities that are capable of undermining the corporate existence of Nigeria, the National

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Govs’ Wives Raise the Alarm over Insecurity, Poverty Chuks Okocha in Abuja Wives of the 36 governors under the auspices of the Nigerian Governors’ Wives Forum have expressed concerns over the worsening security situation across the country as well as the rate of poverty among Nigerians among other social ills.

They have also pledged to

work with their husbands in their respective states to tackle the challenges headlong.

The chairman of the forum and the wife of Ekiti State governor, Mrs. Bisi Fayemi disclosed this yesterday after a meeting they held at the Nigerian Governors’ Forum Secretariat in Abuja.

Addressing journalists after the meeting, she said: “We are

IG Suspends Issuance of Spy Plate Numbers,Tinted Glasses Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja The Inspector-General of Police (IG), Mr. Usman Baba, yesterday ordered the suspension of the use of spy plate numbers and tinted glasses.

He also ordered Commissioners of Police to clear impounded vehicles from all police stations and state police commands.

Speaking during his first meeting with the command police chiefs after his confirmation as IG, he said the decision was predicated on the reports of abuses associated with the use of spy plate numbers and tinted glasses.

“For the avoidance of doubt, SPY plate numbers are for official use of some categories of corporate bodies, while tinted glasses permits are issued under statutory regulations.

“Unfortunately, several

individuals have of late turned the use of SPY plate numbers and tinted glasses into status symbol and have fraudulently obtained such”, he said.

He said “there have been reports that some criminal elements are also utilising them as cover for their nefarious activities”.

He said the attitude of motorists covering their plate numbers would no longer be allowed.

He said the practice inhibits law enforcement operations. He directed them to henceforth arrest violators.

The IG warned the CPs against indiscriminate impounding of vehicles in police stations and state police commands.

“I have noticed that most of you still allow your officers to unnecessarily and indiscriminately impound vehicles at police stations.

Police facilities are not junk yards and must not be turned to one.

Suspected Herdsmen Kill Three in Ogun Communities Kayode Fasua in Abeokuta No fewer than three persons were yesterday confirmed dead when suspected herdsmen fleeing from the Igangan mayhem in Oyo State attacked Amule Ologede village, a suburb of Imeko town, in the Imeko/Afon Local Government Area of Ogun State.

The incident, which came barely 24-hours after the Igangan tragedy, left three farmers identified as Femi Bara, John Taiwo and Tunde Taiwo dead, while their newly purchased BAJAJ motorcycle was carted away by the rampaging herdsmen.

THISDAY reliably gathered that the trio of Bara, John and Tunde, who were riding on their motorcycle, were slaughtered by the herdsmen Sunday evening, while returning to Imeko township

from their farms.

One of the community leaders and Balogun (chief warrior) of Imeko Isale, Chief Ganiu Akinleye, who spoke on phone with journalists in Abeokuta, the state capital on the attack, confirmed that the incident happened around 11 pm, Sunday night.

Akinloye, who alleged that the Igangan attackers had relocated to a village called Sagada in Imeko/Afon L.G.A, explained that the police yesterday morning, evacuated corpses of the three victims from the village where they were murdered to the morgue of the State Hospital in Imeko town.

“Those herdsmen who escaped after killing people in Igangan are now in Ogun State. They camp in a village called Sagada, under Oke Agbede in Ward 2.

concerned about the security situation and the impact it has on women and children.

“We are also concerned about the job crises in the country which is gradually consuming a whole lot of young people.

“We are also concerned about the poverty that a lot of women face especially in the rural communities.”

She promised that the members of the forum were committed to

John Shiklam in Kaduna Three people have been killed by fleeing bandits who were repelled by security personnel along the Kaduna- Zaria road, in Igabi Local Government Area of Kaduna State.

The bandits, according to a statement by the state Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Mr. Samuel Aruwan, were fleeing after being repelled by troops along Kaduna-Zaria highway.

Aruwan said troops of the 4Demo Battalion, Nigerian Army, reported to the state government that armed bandits were repelled in some locations along the Kaduna-Zaria highway.

He said the bandits were reportedly sighted moving towards the highway from Sharu

village in the Kerawa area.

The statement said, “The troops, acting on credible intelligence on the bandits’ movement, laid an ambush and intercepted them at Lambar Zango and Hawan Kwaranza villages.

“At these locations, the bandits were engaged in a fierce firefight, and suffered several casualties.

“The bandits, having been decisively halted by the troops on these fronts, retreated hastily via another route and in the process attacked Dunki village, where they killed two residents- Abubakar Sani and Abubakar Saleh and an unidentified male traveler”.

Aruwan said the retreating bandits also raided Mashashiya and Farguza villages, from where they stole some livestock and other valuables.

Also speaking, the DirectorGeneral of the NGF, Mr. Asishana Okauru, said the secretariat was willing to partner the governors’ wives to create enabling policy environment for improved maternal health.

“Nigeria has one of the worst maternal mortality ratios. This is unacceptable as no woman should lose her life in the course of bringing a new life to the world.

“Each maternal death should

mandatorily be reported whenever and wherever they occur; reviewed as to possible causes of the death and there has to be an institutional response designed to implement appropriate measures to mitigate future occurrences.

“The secretariat has a resource centre and the requisite expertise to provide support in seeking and securing assistance to any First Lady interested in pursuing this.”

SECURING PUBLIC INFRASTRUCTURE…

L-R: Minister of Transportation, Mr. Rotimi Amaechi; Minister of Works and Housing, Mr. Babatunde Fashola; Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed; Minister of FCT, Mallam Mohammed Musa Bello; and Minister of Aviation, Senator Hadi Sirika at a town hall meeting on protecting public infrastructure in Abuja…yesterday

Bring Attackers of Igangan to Book,Yoruba Group Urges FG The Yoruba Leadership and Peace Initiative (TYLPI) has called on the federal government to take immediate steps to identify and bring to justice, those behind Sunday’s killing of no fewer than 20 persons in Igangan community in the Ibarapa area of Oyo State.

Unknown gunmen had in the early hours of that day raided the community and killed the defenceless people while torching

scores of houses including the palace of the traditional ruler.

In a statement signed by its Director of Publicity and Media Affairs, Mr. Tunde Ipinmisho, TYLPI expressed dismay that more than 24 hours after the incident, the federal government had not issued a statement to either acknowledge or condemn the dastardly act.

Describing Sunday’s incident as a new low in the undeclared

war against the nation by those hiding under the cover of darkness to do evil, the group blamed the continued killings by such persons across the country on the absence of robust consequences for lawlessness.

TYLPI which condemned the wanton killing of defenceless citizens who were sleeping in their homes in the dead of the night, warned that the inaction of

the authorities could lead to reprisals and repeated circles of violence in the country.

It said the latest killings were another evidence of the nation’s gradual slide into anarchy since 2015 and appealed to those who still have some political clout to leverage it to encourage the authorities to live up to their responsibilities especially regarding the basic protection of life and property.

30 Feared Killed as Bandits Attack Zamfara Communities No fewer than 30 persons were reportedly killed in Askawa and Gidan Dannunu communities of Zurmu Local Government Area in Zamfara Atate during an attack by bandits on Sunday evening.

The bandits, who reportedly stormed the community in about 80 motorcycles, were said to have shot sporadically during the incident.

It was learnt that 30 persons died in the process, while several others sustained various degree of injuries.

A resident of the community, who pleaded anonymity, said the bandits carted away sheep, cows and goats after torching barns as well as looting food items and burning the only truck in the community.

He said the bandits chased anyone on sight, shooting all the way.

Though policemen engaged the bandits in a gun battle, it was learnt that they were reportedly outnumbered.

Another villager claimed to have counted at least 29 corpses and participated in the burial of no fewer than 11 persons.

It was also learnt the head of Kwata community, just returning from the market, was one of those killed.

Zamfara Police spokesman SP Muhammad Shehu said the police were investigating the attack and would issue a statement on it.

Zurmi Local Government Area has been the worst hit by bandit attacks in Zamfara State

Umahi Resigns as Chairman of South-east Security Committee Benjamin Nworie in Abakaliki

Fleeing Bandits Kill Three Persons in Kaduna

supporting their respective state governments in making sure that they work alongside their husbands to improve the quality of lives of citizens.

“We, as wives, mothers and First Ladies, will do whatever we can in support of our husbands to ensure we bridge the gap and play whatever role we can mostly behind the scene to ensure that the quality of life of our people will be much better,” she explained.

The Chairman, South-East Security Committee, Major General Obi Umahi (rtd.) has resigned from the position.

Until his resignation, Umahi was the chairman of the committee since August 31, 2019 when he was appointed by the South-East Governors Forum to draft a framework for the establishment of a

South-East joint security outfit to cater to the security needs of the zone.

In his resignation letter dated June 4, 2021, titled, “Resignation As Chairman South East Security Committee – Ebubeagu,” and addressed to the chairman of the South-East Governor’s Forum, Governor David Umahi of Ebonyi State, the retired army general disclosed that his Committee was never funded

neither was office provided for them through the duration.

“Since this Security Committee was formed, we deliberated and agreed on ways to raise security consciousness down to the community level in Igbo land, mode of operations, logistics and some types of equipment required, such as drones, vehicles, etc. We also crafted the Concept of SE Security.

“Additionally, I chaired a 21-man Committee set up to draft a legal framework for the SE Security outfit. The committee was composed of members of the SE Security committee, the Attorney Generals of the five South-East States and some prominent Igbo sons and daughters. The 21-man Legal Framework Committee was funded to completion by the Governor of Ebonyi State.

NUJ Seeks Reversal of Twitter Suspension Benjamin Nworie in Abakaliki The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has called on President Muhammadu Buhari to reverse the ban on the Twitter’s operations in Nigeria.

The NUJ also said that the suspension was completely at variance with democratic tenets.

The President of the NUJ, Mr. Chris Isiguzo, made the call

when he delivered an address during the 3rd NUJ National Conference in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, where he noted that the decision to ban the Twitter was undemocratic, obnoxious and totally unacceptable.

Isiguzo said: “At this point, let me pause and express our views about the recent decision by the federal government to place a ban on the activities of

the Twitter in Nigeria. We believe that the decision is completely at variance with democratic tenets.

A key ingredient of democratic governance is the right of the people to freedom of expression.

At any time the people are restrained from freely expressing themselves, then, democracy takes flight.

“The decision to ban the Twitter is undemocratic, obnoxious

and totally unacceptable. We, therefore, ask the government of President Muhammadu Buhari to without delay reverse the decision.”

He said that the theme of this year’s conference on “The Media, Insecurity and National Unity” was timely because of the pivotal role of the media as an effective tool for addressing issues of National unity and insecurity.

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COMMENT

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

TASK BEFORE CG, NIGERIAN CORRECTIONAL SERVICE Henry Udutchay urges government to give necessary support to the Nababa-led correctional service

A

s Haliru Nababa settles down to his exalted position as the Controller General of Nigerian Correctional Service he would be confronted by myriads of challenges that have hindered effective correctional service administration in the country. But the Sokoto State-born administrator is believed to be sufficiently equipped for the Heculian task ahead of him. He has acquired vast professional capacity and administrative experience to enable him successfully pilot the affairs of correctional service in this trying and challenging time.

Prior to his ascending the top position, he has gone through the system and occupied several strategic positions in the service. He joined the service after graduating from Usman Danfodio University, Sokoto where he obtained a Bachelors of Arts Degree in History in 1988.

Thereafter he did his National Youth Service (1988-1989) in Itigidi Local Government Area in Cross River State.

With a solid academic background, Haliru Nababa enlisted into the Nigerian Prisons Service now Nigerian Correctional Service, as a Cadet in 1990. He has over the years occupied several positions in different parts of the country including, Gusau Medium Security Custodial Centre (1990-1992), Zuru Custodial Centre (1992-1993) and Sokoto Medium Security Custodial Centre (1993-1996).

He was also in-charge of various custodial centres across the country, among which are: Wurno Custodial Satellite Facility in Sokoto (19961998), Nguru Custodial Centre in Yobe State (2002-2008), Mubi Medium Security Custodial Centre in Adamawa (2008-2014) and Sokoto Medium Security Custodial Centre (2014-2015).

His rising profile in correctional service saw him elevated to the position of controller in 2015. He served in that capacity in Zonal Headquarters Office, Zone “D” Minna (2015-2016); Kebbi State Command (2016-2017) and Sokoto State Command (2017-2019).

He attended several medium and high level professional courses in various correctional institutions including, Nigerian Correctional College in Kakuri, Kaduna State and Advanced command course at the Correctional Academy in Ijebu-Igbo, Ogun State. He also attended the prestigious National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies for the executive management course in 2019.

Upon his successful graduation from the elitist institution, where he came out with brilliant performance, he was deployed to National Headquarters Office Abuja as Assistant Controller General (ACG) incharge of budget. He was subsequently promoted to Deputy Controller General (DCG), Directorate of Budget and Finance. He demonstrated outstanding professionalism and prudent management of resources in handling these positions, which earned him high recommendations.

It therefore did not come as a surprise when President Muhammadu Buhari considered him worthy to be appointed the Controller General of the Nigerian Correctional Service.

MANY OF THE CORRECTIONAL CENTRES ARE POORLY EQUIPPED; THERE IS ABSENCE OF MODERN FACILITIES AND AMENITIES. THE BUILDINGS ARE DILAPIDATED WHICH MAKE THEM VULNERABLE FOR EASY BREAK-INS.

Going by his highly intimidating profile in Correctional Service, there is no doubt that Haliru Nababa is adequately groomed to occupy the position of Controller General of Nigerian Correctional Service.

He is also very familiar with the challenges confronting the service.

Some of these challenges will bring out the best of his capacity and experience.

Although the immediate past administration under Ja’afaru Ahmed, did its best to transform the correctional service by carrying out some commendable reforms, a lot still needs to be done. The truth is that the problems confronting the Nigerian Correctional Service today are quite overwhelming.

This can be attributed to many years of neglect by previous governments in the country. One of the major challenges confronting correctional service administration in the country is poor and inadequate infrastructure. Many of the correctional centres are poorly equipped; there is virtually absence of modern facilities and amenities.

The buildings are dilapidated which make them vulnerable for easy break-ins. With the growing insecurity in the country correctional facilities are increasingly becoming targets of attacks by criminal elements, either to free their detained members or deliberate attack on government facilities. This means that correctional facilities around the country must be properly secured and fortified to prevent the embarrassing incidents of jail breaks in the country.

Similarly, there is the need for expansion and provision of more correctional facilities in the country. There is no doubt that most correctional facilities are presently overstretched as a result of increasing number of inmates. Although there are over 200 correctional centres, many of them need to be rehabilitated and upgraded to meet the required standard. This will also help to improve the security of the facilities.

Equally paramount is the welfare of both the inmates and staff of the correctional service. The idea behind the transformation from prison to correctional service is to give human face to custodial administration in the country.

This can only be achieved if necessary priority is given to the welfare of the inmates and those looking after them. This is in tandem with the objective of ensuring that those who pass through the system come out better reformed to be integrated back to the society.

However, no matter the good intentions or the capacity of the new controller general to tackle these myriad of problems, he may be hampered by lack of adequate funding. It is therefore expected that government must give him the necessary backing to enable him succeed in this onerous assignment. Although the Minister of Interior, Rauf Aregbesola has been doing his possible best towards improving correctional services, the government still needs to do more.

Chief Udutchay, hochay2000@yahoo.com

WHITHER MEDIA INTELLIGENCE? The role of a section of the media on security crisis afflicting the nation is unfortunate, writes Sylvester Bonny-Jack

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ne of the fallouts from the alarming state of insecurity in the country is the trivialization of security issues such that everyone has a sense of entitlement to talk in the ensuing Babel of voices on insecurity. It is understandable that the climate of fear hovering over most parts of the country will provoke a frenzy of frightened and frightening chatter as Nigerians express concern and agitate for decisive intervention of the military and security forces to restore law and order. But, it is a ridiculous derogation of the national crisis when every Tayo, Dike and Hamisu assumes the posture of an informed source of “expert” knowledge on the intricacies of our security architecture, even if this is powered by media maniacs enticing them with cameras and microphones to sustain the raging epidemic of talk-shows on insecurity.

Imagine people whose “analysis” of the counter-insurgency operations consistently concludes that “failure of intelligence” should be blamed for the lack of sustained victories in the war against insurgency as they tongue-lash the security agencies with armchair anger. The deplorable propagation of largely uninformed and misinformed cheap talk on the intricate technicalities of national security and defense matters is a reflection of similar deficits in the so-called on-air-personalities who anchor the talk shows.

Journalistic credentials have been written off by propagandist pandering to proprietorship politics thereby polluting the “nobility” of the profession with fake news, jaundiced analysis and parochial narratives. Little wonder that, more often than not, the media is causative factor rather than a moderating influence in the inevitable crises of emergent nationhood.

In the absence of a genuinely objective and nationalistic media, insecurity and its perpetrators

derive impetus from the “oxygen of publicity” lavishly supplied by opposition media’s zealous quest for anti-government content with an unscrupulous fixation on undermining and replacing the incumbent government. So, the daily dedication of banner headlines and breaking news to the real and exaggerated exploits of the insurgents and armed bandits adds vicious value to the selective coverage of disparaging news about lack of combat readiness of troops and humongous amount of funds that the Buhari administration has eagerly disbursed to the military commands without commensurate impact.

The skewed coverage of the nation’s battles plays down or blacks out the obvious international backing of insurgents and conspiratorial sabotage of Nigerian military might by supposedly friendly foreign “partners” who withhold or delay critical arsenals. The history of patriotic posture of the Nigerian Press against colonialism and Western imperialism is giving way to adoption of advocacy templates that amount to creating back channels for foreign interference with internal affairs and sovereignty of the country in furtherance of neo-colonialist agenda.

The orchestrated politically-motivated assault on the country’s relentless resilience in the face of a decade-old widening war of attrition against combined foreign and internal enemies also targets the intelligence community. Logic should underscore the fact that intelligence is a strategic covert resource in military operations and maintenance of national security in general.

Besides, the military also has its internal intelligence capabilities.

Reading between the lines of the “intelligence”bashing in the media, it is clear that the so-called security experts are either ill-informed on the contributions of the intelligence services or they

are being mischievous, or both, all in the interest of serving their paymasters. They have always ignored in their media theatrics, the valuable intelligence being passed to the Nigerian military

by Services in the intelligence. Moreover, contrary to the buck-passing or “blame game” culture that motivates deliberate misinformation about actionable intelligence, there is a seamless interrelationship between intelligence agencies and the military, especially in times of war, as each party knows its role and limitations.”

It ought to be beyond conjecture that while intelligence agencies have a duty to gather and supply relevant intelligence to strengthen the arm of the military in combat operations, they cannot supplant the military’s professional responsibility of executing the war. These salient points sufficiently expose the ignorance and mischief of the armchair critics promoted by opposition media to undermine and demoralize the nation’s entire security infrastructure.

It is rather regrettable that the covert nature of operations of internal intelligence services against active and potential security threats precludes undue publicity of their activities. The fact that they are duty bound to embrace all prominent political leaders in and outside incumbent government, including the opposition, in protective coverage which is never turned down, is sufficient vindication of their nationalistic professional disposition and indispensability. They represent a dependable institutional edifice in constant and perpetual vigilant protection of the nation state, irrespective of the identity or composition of transient legitimate leadership. Amid all the propaganda and criticism, theirs’ is a case of silence is not consent!

It bears emphasizing that the continued existence of Nigeria is the barest minimum condition for the sustainability of citizenship identity and all

the exclusive attendant entitlements and privileges attached to nationality. Our eventful history and prospective future of evolving nationhood rest on the resilience of Nigeria against all odds. The inflammable roles some sections of the media have chosen to play in a period of unprecedented insecurity outbreaks constitute a clear and present danger to the territorial integrity of the nation and survival of citizens. Banner headlines projecting the horrendous toll from incessant insurgency attacks and kidnappings have turned newspapers into another occupied area where insurgent flags are flying high. It’s as if the newspapers harbor an unspeakable urge to ultimately report surrender of Nigerian troops to the insurgents, kidnappers and urban bandits!

As a result, there is a discernible convergence of interests between raging insecurity and political opposition as the two sides cast a death wish on the Buhari administration and by extension Nigeria, one from the barrels of guns and the other from media missiles. Absurdly, all the mindless hostility and callous incitement against national stability and sustainable democracy is coming from political enclaves harbouring a restless, counter-constitutional anxiety to take over the leadership of the country! The stampede to occupy the corridors of power by hook and crook exposes the insatiable lust for self-enrichment among leading politicians who cling tenaciously to lucrative political offices. Once out of power they are like fish out of water! The death wishers remain an aggressive minority in the midst of the majority of citizens who would rather endure transient challenges of emerging nationhood, than be provoked by the desperation of the insanely ambitious into stateless misery of roaming refugees. By God’s grace, Nigeria will outlive its enemies!

Bonny-Jack wrote from Port Harcourt

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EDITORIAL THE E-VOTING PROPOSITION It’s time to join the rest of the world in adopting electronic voting

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he Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) chairman, Mahmood Yakubu, last year raised the prospect of the full introduction of electronic voting in major elections from 2021. Last week the electoral body reemphasized its commitment and called for legislation to transmit the results of 2023 elections electronically.

It is difficult to fault INEC and others clamouring for electronic voting. Elections in Nigerian have for long been marred by fraud and violence. Ballot stuffing, manipulation of manually written results, snatching of ballot boxes and compromise of election officials to falsify results and indeed outright killings, have become the norm rather than the exception. The immediate past INEC Chairman, Attahiru Jega, indeed, said the electoral process in Nigeria revealed an incredible level of electoral malpractices with “acute deficiency in electoral integrity, which no A NEW ELECTORAL ACT doubt is among WHICH ACCOMMODATES the major causes of THE USE OF TECHNOLOGY political instabilWILL BE CENTRAL TO ity, weakness and CONDUCTING FREE AND FAIR inadequacy of the governance proELECTIONS cess”. That perhaps explains why the electoral system is increasingly transferring the onus of determining outcomes to the judiciary rather than the voters.

In advocating the use of e-voting, we are not oblivious of some possible problems it could encounter. The unreliable public power supply is one major hindrance. Training the needed manpower is another. There will also be need for sufficient voter education through intensive public enlightenment.

Besides, we are conscious of the fact that the initial cost of acquiring Direct Recording Electronic (DRE) machines may be high. Even more, electronic voting machines are also susceptible to hacking if it is online and internet based.

Yet all things considered, we believe the time has come for Nigeria to join the rest of the world

Letters to the Editor

in adopting the process of e-voting. The cost of acquiring the machine which accommodates alternate languages to English like Hausa, Igbo and Yoruba and more will be recouped by eliminating ballot printing and other related printings. Namibia had since joined the ranks of modernity in 2014.

A fortnight ago, Pakistan, used to voting with ballot papers like Nigeria, decided to hold the next elections through the electronic voting system.

The precedent of the electoral system of various advanced democracies shows clearly that credible elections are made possible by the adoption of the best technologies. “If people these days can transfer billions of dollars from one bank to the other, using electronic means, then I believe that we can do electronic voting perfectly and that will ensure that the use of thugs during elections would be eliminated,” said former President Goodluck Jonathan.

We agree.

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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 DIRECTOR PATRICK EIMIUHI CONTROLLERS ABIMBOLA TAIWO, UCHENNA DIBIAGWU, NDUKA MOSERI DIRECTOR, PRINTING PRODUCTION CHUKS ONWUDINJO HEAD, COMPUTER DEPARTMENT PATRICIA UBAKA-ADEKOYA TO SEND EMAIL: first name.surname@thisdaylive.com

ith the deployment of technology, genuine votes of the electorate will not only be counted under a transparent process, they would also begin to count. Indeed, the consensus remains that the last Edo governorship election was one of the best elections in recent times. The deployment by INEC of more technology for uploading polling unit results helped the transparency of the process. Nigeria cannot afford to lag in deploying technology in elections, especially when many of our citizens have lost confidence in the extant electoral voting method because of its susceptibility to manipulation.

However, modernising the electoral system is predicated on amending the electoral act which the National Assembly is reworking to fit with the demands of the Presidency. Few days ago, President Buhari reassured the INEC chairman that he would do everything to ensure that the electoral body did not fail in its duty of conducting transparent election. The 2023 election is less than two years away.

A new electoral act which accommodates the use of technology will be central to conducting free and fair elections.

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

RE: TWITTER BAN: MALAMI ORDERS PROSECUTION OF OFFENDERS

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have read the statement credited to the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Mr. Abubakar Malami, SAN where he was reported to have directed the Director of Public Prosecution to begin immediate prosecution of those who violate the federal government’s order suspending Twitter operations in Nigeria.

I want to state in clear terms that such directive is illegal and unconstitutional. The executive order banning the operation of Twitter in Nigeria cannot override the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria as amended.

In plethora of cases decided in Nigeria, the Supreme Court has held that before a crime can be committed, it has to be defined by the law validly enacted by the National Assembly or States House of Assembly with punishment described. By the Supreme Court decision in the case of Aoko v Fagbemi, the court held, inter alia, that nobody could be punished for an offence that was not part of our written laws at the time it was committed. The implication of the court decision in the aforementioned case is that a man may be punished for a breach of the law, but he cannot be punished for nothing else. In other words, powers can only be exercised in accordance with written law made by the lawmakers. The use of the Virtual Private Networks (VPN) by many Nigerians cannot amount

to crime as of today in Nigeria.

Arrest and prosecution of Nigerian citizens for using twitter contravenes the grundnom which is the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. I humbly remind the office of the Attorney General of the Federation that mere directive from the government cannot take a place of law.

The purported order if not quickly reversed, will lead to arrest of citizens who cannot be arraigned within the timeframe stipulated by the constitution in breach of their fundamental human rights at a time our courts are still under lock and keys due to the on-going strike embarked upon by judicial workers across the country.

The constitution is so supreme to the extent that any other law that contravenes its provisions shall be declared null and void to the extent of its inconsistency. However, in this case, we are talking of an executive order.

I will like to add that the right to freedom of expression is one of those rights seen as very essential and fundamental to the development of a civilized society. It is the foundation for the enforcement of other rights, encroachment of which is made known by expression.

A major determinant of nations respect for the rights of its people today is the extent to which they can express themselves.

Adeola Oyinlade, Esq., 2018 International Bar Association

TANK MAN IS BACK

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he blocking of “Tank Man” photos by the Microsoft Bing search engine on the anniversary of the event was apparently an “accidental human error”. I would be more inclined to think it was a computer stuff up rather than a deliberate censorship of one of the world’s most famous photos from an horrific event that will be remembered with or without photos.

There is a worry that other events, or news items could easily be removed from the internet and since so many get their news from there many stories will be unseen and perhaps missed by the majority of people. All news must be available to all people and stay available. Read George Orwell’s 1984 if you don’t know why it is so important.

Dennis Fitzgerald, Melbourne, Australia

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TUESDAY JUNE 8, 2021 •T H I S D AY

TUESDAY JUNE 8, 2021 • T H I S D AY

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T H I S D AY ˾ TUESDAY JUNE 8, 2021

POLITICS

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

No More Twitter. What’s Next?

Most Nigerians woke up to find their Twitter feed not refreshing last Saturday, meaning the Federal Government had enforced its directive to suspend Twitter operations in Nigeria, writes Vanessa Obioha

Buhari

Dorsey

Malami

Onyeama

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onfirming the action, the professional body of telecommunication operators in Nigeria, the Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria (ALTON) announced that it officially received instructions from the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to block access to Twitter although it clarified its stance on the matter, which was in line with the United Nations position that people’s rights to communicate and share information freely and responsibly both offline and online should be protected and respected.

While some Nigerians used VPN — a virtual private network that encrypts internet traffic and identity, making it difficult for you to be traced by third parties — to access the microblogging site and condemned the act by the government, they received yet another shocking news by the government.

This time, the country’s Minister of Justice and Attorney-General, Abubakar Malami was the messenger.

Malami ordered the immediate prosecution of individuals and corporations who defy the government’s ban on Twitter operations, according to his spokesman Umar Gwandu.

“Malami directed the DPPF to liaise with the Ministry of Communication and Digital Economy, National Communication Communication (NCC) and other relevant government agencies to ensure the speedy prosecution of offenders without any further delay.”

By Sunday, the National Broadcasting Commission which was also directed to commence the process of licensing all OTT and social media operations in Nigeria ordered all broadcast stations in the country to cease patronising the social media platform.

With all these pronouncements, it became apparent to Nigerians that the government was waging war against the people’s freedom to express themselves, a trait of dictatorship.

What, however, that is yet to be ascertained is if these sanctions will be obeyed or will

the people use their power to protest the actions of the government.

Again, for the prosecution of defaulters of the Twitter ban, what punishment will they be given? More importantly, is it achievable?

Twitter is one of the most popular social media platforms in Nigeria. According to Statista, it accounted for 61.4 per cent of Nigerians who accessed social networking sites in Nigeria in the last quarter of 2020.

The users fall between the ages of 16 and 64.

Young citizens find the platforms an avenue to air their agitations over unfriendly government policies as well as hold the government accountable.

But for an autocratic government, such freedom undermines its influence, thus, any form of criticism is seen as an attack on its person.

The advent of social media platforms, no doubt, helped in closing gaps of communication and information dissemination in traditional media. A good number of media organisations in Nigeria used platforms like Twitter, Facebook and Instagram to gather

and disseminate information. As such, Twitter is one of the sources of information for both citizens and media organisations.

But like every technology advancement, it has its drawbacks which sometimes outweigh the benefits, particularly when it threatens the security of a nation. It is a thriving ground for purveyors of misinformation and disinformation, sometimes employed by political rivals and rebels to undermine the efforts of a ruling government or create chaos. A good example was the #EndSARS protests that happened last year. A good number of images and posts shared on the platform on the night the alleged Lekki shooting happened turned out to be fake news. More so was the viral audio credited to the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) Nnamdi Kanu ordered Igbos to destroy the properties belonging to the South-west people. The post deliberately incited ethnic discord as the Igbos were alleged to be responsible for the attacks on government properties.

The lack of gatekeepers in the platform is worrisome not only to media organisations

The platform has long updated its terms of engagement and began monitoring and removing posts that violate its rules like President Muhammadu Buhari’s tweet.

While misinformation and security challenges are some of the reasons governments take drastic actions to restrict or block access to social media site, Nigeria’s scenario looks more like a revenge act. Even if Twitter has been worrisome to the government, its timing did not justify the actions. As far as most Nigerians are concerned, the Twitter ban was purely the case of a bruised ego

but to governments as well. For instance, since the 2016 election, US Congress has continuously held founders of these platforms responsible for the promotion of fake news on their platforms.

Twitter founder, Jack Dorsey, was among those who didn’t take immediate actions because he found it dangerous for his staff to serve as ‘arbiters of truth’. But the platform has long updated its terms of engagement and began monitoring and removing posts that violate its rules like President Muhammadu Buhari’s tweet.

While misinformation and security challenges are some of the reasons governments take drastic actions to restrict or block access to social media site, Nigeria’s scenario looks more like a revenge act. Even if Twitter has been worrisome to the government, its timing did not justify the actions. As far as most Nigerians are concerned, the Twitter ban was purely the case of a bruised ego.

Making matters worse, is the different reasons given for the ban and subsequent steps since the growing condemnation of the Nigerian government’s actions. From the Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, Garba Shehu calling the ban a temporary one — against the initial announcement that the platform’s operations were suspended indefinitely — to him singling out IPOB as the only insecurity challenge the country faces in his principal’s defence.

According to him, “IPOB is proscribed under Nigerian law. Its members murder innocent Nigerians. They kill policemen and set government property on fire. Now, they have amassed a substantial stockpile of weapons and bombs across the country. Twitter does not seem to appreciate the national trauma of our country’s civil war. This government shall not allow a recurrence of that tragedy.

NOTE: Interested readers should continue in the online edition on www.thisdaylive.com

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T H I S D AY ˾ TUESDAY JUNE 8, 2021

POLITICS

Clamour for Exclusive Power to INEC As members of the National Assembly committee are currently busy collating views on the review of the 1999 Constitution, stakeholders are clamouring for exclusive power to be given to the Independent National Electoral Commission to declare the result of an election instead of the judiciary, Davidson Iriekpen writes

Lawan

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different perspective was added to the ongoing debate to review the 1999 Constitution when former Governor of Edo State, Prof. Oserheimen Osunbor, kicked against what he termed the courts’ usurpation of the sole powers of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to declare winners in electoral contests in the country. In a memorandum he forwarded to the constitution review committee collating views, Osunbor argued that the law could not have envisaged that INEC will share its powers with any other authority or organ of government.

The professor of law who is also a former twoterm senator representing Edo Central senatorial district, described as a serious aberration, for the commission to conduct an election and declare a winner and for other persons who took no part in the conduct of the election to declare a different person as winner. He maintained that the courts’ decisions have rendered the word “independent” in the name of the commission worthless and meaningless, noting that it is inherently wrong.

Whether in legislative or governorship elections, several cases involving electoral contests between parties in Nigeria in the past have been eventually decided by the courts despite of the outcomes of such elections. Sometimes due to the petitions filed to challenge the elections, courts or tribunals have had cause to snatch victories from the winning parties to others.

These have had to not only put the judiciary in bad light, but make democracy in the country a mockery.

A case in point was in Imo State in January 2020 where the Supreme Court in controversial circumstances, nullified the election of Emeka Ihedioha of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as the Governor of Imo State. A seven-man panel of the apex court led by the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Tanko Muhammad, had unanimously declared Hope Uzodimma of the All Progressives Congress (APC) as winner of the March 9, 2019 governorship election and the validly elected governor of the state.

The decision did not go down well with many politicians. Since the judgment, the state has been in the eye of the storm as rampaging hoodlums raze INEC offices, vehicles, generators, as well as police stations in the state and its environs.

Cases of assassination have also been recorded in the state.

This is why Osunbor who had himself been a victim of this anomaly when the Court of Appeal sacked him from office as the Governor of Edo State in 2008 and replaced him with Adams Oshiomhole, said this is wrong. According to him, this has given rise to the emergence of elected officials who were rejected at the polls by the voters, but emerged through the courts as winners in total disregard for the will of the majority of the people that heeded the call to perform their civic duty.

“The essence of democracy is thus defeated.

Elections to that extent, have ceased to reflect the will of the people but the will of the judges sometimes by a split decision of 2:1, 3:2, etc, as the case may be. Elections should be won

Gbajabiamila

at the polls, not in a court of law. They should be a reflection of the will of the voters, not the brilliance of election petition lawyers or the will of courts of law or other extraneous consideration. Every vote must count because this goes to the very foundation of democracy,” he emphasised.

According to the former dean of law at the Lagos State University (LASU), former President Goodluck Jonathan and Oshiomhole, himself a beneficiary of a court-ordered electoral victory, have recently spoken against the usurpation of the constitutional rights of voters to elect their leaders through the ballot. He further listed Prof. Itse Sagay (SAN), a member of the team of lawyers that secured electoral victory in the court for Oshiomhole in 2008, as having echoed his opposition to the hijacking of the powers of INEC by the judiciary.

For instance, last April, during a visit to TOSTV Network studios in Abuja, Jonathan himself had called for the strengthening of the nation’s electoral laws in a way that only the ballot paper, and not the courts, is allowed to determine the winners of elections. The former President stressed that the standard practice is that the electoral management bodies exercise the sole responsibility of returning candidates and declaring winners while the judiciary complements by either upholding declared results or nullifying flawed elections and ordering a rerun.

He said: “I had already made a public statement on that to the effect that the ballot paper and not the judiciary should determine who wins elections or select political leaders. The ballot paper should be the only basis for selecting political leaders.”

Jonathan further noted that countries that conduct free and fair elections experience less election-related litigations while numerous court cases following elections are the hallmark of fragile democracies.

He said further: “I have said this before and I will always repeat it. I am not saying the judiciary is not doing well. But my point is that our laws should suppress the issue of the

Yakubu

judiciary returning candidates. If a candidate is declared winner after a flawed electoral process, what the courts can do is to annul the election and order a fresh one, where a winner will finally emerge through the ballot. The ballot paper should decide who holds any elective office from the councillorship to the presidency.

That is democracy.”

Osunbor noted that amending the law to rectify the anomaly would help to preserve the integrity of the judiciary, preserve democracy, reduce voters’ apathy, reduce the spate of litigation, including frivolous ones by fortune-hunting litigants. He called for a new insertion, wherein if elections to any particular office are repeatedly nullified by the tribunal or courts due to flagrant violations of the law, substantial irregularities or substantial non-compliance, the INEC officer responsible may be removed from office for gross misconduct by a motion supported by not less than two-thirds majority of all members of the Senate.

Even a former INEC’s National Commissioner, Prof. Lai Olurode, towed this line of argument last week when he featured in an interview on the state of affairs in Imo State. He said the judgment of the Supreme Court sacking Ihedioha and installing Uzodimma in January 2020 provoked the attacks on some INEC offices in the state. According to him, it is antithetical for the courtroom to take the position of the electorate which is an expression of the popular will of the people.

The don also said a fresh election should have been ordered in Imo State for the sake of peace. He described the situation as unfortunate but said the isolated attacks on INEC offices should not be taken as an attack on democracy.

He said, “Having judges decide a governor cannot be taken to be synonymous with the expression of popular will through the ballot box. The ballot box should remain sacrosanct.

There is no way the courtroom and their lordship can take the position of the electorate; it is antithetical, it is not going to work because the ballot box is an expression of the popular will

Even a former INEC’s National Commissioner, Prof.

Lai Olurode, towed this line of argument last week when he featured in an interview on the state of affairs in Imo State. He said the judgment of the Supreme Court sacking Ihedioha and installing Uzodimma in January 2020 provoked the attacks on some INEC offices in the state. According to him, it is antithetical for the courtroom to take the position of the electorate which is an expression of the popular will of the people. The don also said a fresh election should have been ordered in Imo State for the sake of peace

of the people. In India, they have warned that the court should not take over the role of the electorate, it is antithetical, it is obnoxious. It is like annulling the will of the people. People will look for other means of expression, it is not that it is good because it is like returning to the law of the jungle which should not be allowed but when the court annuls the popular will of the people, this is going to create its own effect which may be damaging.”

Continuing, the former INEC commissioner said, “The judiciary can only sit down and make rulings when there is peace but when there is no peace, nobody can do anything and that is why the clamour for peace should be the primary goal. So, an election should mediate conflict and not provoke conflict. We had the same thing in 1983, Ondo State burnt. The court should not assume the role of the voters.

“We can order a fresh election if we are not sure of what to do rather than now annulling the popular wish of the people.”

While many lawyers may not agree with these positions, the submission of the retired justice of the Supreme Court, Justice Olabode RhodesVivour means that it is worth experimenting for the country’s democracy to move forward.

For instance during a valedictory session organised in his honour during his retirement as a judge of the Supreme Court recently, Justice Rhodes-Vivour while advising on how to improve on election petitions and justice for litigants in the country, had urged the National Assembly to amend the Electoral Act to shift the burden of proving the credibility of any disputed elections on INEC rather than the petitioner. The jurist while expressing displeasure at the increasing reliance on the courts to resolve election disputes, noted that electoral disputes were protracted because some politicians were never satisfied with the result announced by the electoral umpire. He then advocated for a review of the Electoral Act to shift the burden of proof to INEC to prove that it conducted a fair and credible election.

He expressed displeasure at the increasing reliance on the courts to resolve election disputes, noting that electoral disputes were protracted because some politicians are never satisfied with the result announced by the electoral umpire.

He recalled his previous opinion in Udom v Umana 2016 case where he stated that the petitioner “is always saddled with “difficult requirements and procedures.”

“Elections in Nigeria are protracted. The stakes are too high. Consequently most elections are usually resolved by the courts, simply because most politicians are never satisfied with the results announced by the regulatory body charged with the conduct of elections (INEC). In Udom v Umana (No1) (2016) 12 NWLR (Pt.1526) p.

179 this is what I has to say: ‘A careful reading and understanding of decided authorities show that a petitioner has an uphill task proving his petition in accordance with the Electoral Act. The Petitioner is always saddled with difficult requirements and procedures....’

“It is suggested by me that the Electoral Act should be amended to shift the burden of proof to INEC to prove that it conducted a fair and reasonable election.”

20

T H I S D AY ˾ Ͷ, 2021

FEATURES

Group Features Editor: Chiemelie Ezeobi Email chiemelie.ezeobi@thisdaylive.com, 07010510430

Helpline against Gender-based, Sexual Violence To achieve optimum help and support for cases of Sexual and Gender-based Violence, the Lagos State Government recently launched the SGB Virtual Response Referral System and a helpline. Rebecca Ejifoma reports that the collaborative safety measure would go a long way to protect many

Mrs. Dolapo Osinbajo

Coordinator, Lagos State DSVRT, Titilola Vivour-Adeniyi

L

ast year, when Nigerians took to social media to plead for "one pandemic at a time", not many understood the underlying message. Given that 2020 was the year COVID-19 struck the world and led to a lockdown, survivors faced immense challenges in accessing affordable quality services.

One of such cases that activated public outburst and nationwide campaign from various groups and individual was the vicious rape and murder of 11 years old Favour Okechukwu by a gang of four in Ejigbo area last September. This left Nigerians with the feeling that the nation was battling two pandemics simultaneously- sexual and domestic violence as well as COVID-19 pandemic.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) in listing rape, sexual abuse, sexual exploitation, forced early marriage, domestic violence, marital rape, trafficking and female genital mutilation as forms of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV), noted that it is an offence that threatens the peaceful existence of girls and women.

Over time, this destructive act has proven to cripple the health, emotions, and psychological well-being of survivors and their loved ones, leaving them with long lasting effects.

Helpline It was to protect girls and women, and even young boys from such a depressing experience that the Lagos State government launched the virtual response system alongside the toll-free helpline, 0800333333. This aims to expand the capacity of the response team for survivors in its domain, which they were deprived of during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Unveiled in Ikeja last month, SGB Virtual Response Referral System (SGBVRRS) provides features like uninterrupted support to survivors via its helpline, which will be available 24 hours everyday, in and out of holidays. It also promises to provide sexual and gender-based services, legal, tele-medicine, and psycho social support among other services.

It was powered by the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Response Team (DSVRT) in partnership with the European Union-funded Spotlight Initiative, Women’s Helping Hands Initiative, and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA).

According to the Coordinator, Lagos State DSVRT, Titilola Vivour Adeniyi, the National Demographic and Health Survey 2018 report stated that 30 per cent of girls and women aged between 15 and 49 are reported to have experienced sexual abuse.

She said: "In the past four years, the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Response Team has attended to over 7500 survivors of Sexual and Gender Based Violence. In the year 2020, it became more evident that survivors face immense challenges in accessing affordable quality

Safety toll services, largely due to the financial constraints experienced by survivors.

"The COVID-19 pandemic has also posed a new challenge for survivors accessing justice due to restriction of movement as well as other COVID 19 guidelines. There is therefore an urgent need for survivors to be able to receive uninterrupted support either virtually or physically, irrespective of any pandemic.

"The Lagos State Gender Based Violence Virtual Referral and Response Service aims to expand the capacity of Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Response Team (DSVRT) to provide services virtually leveraging on the existing GBV response program in the State.

This is made possible by the European Union funded Spotlight initiative.

"The virtual referral and response service provides uninterrupted access to SGBV services.

This enables survivors have access to trained SGBV service providers 24/7."

Effective Punishment for Perpetrators Joining in at the launch virtually, wife of the Vice-President, Dolapo Osinbajo, said these times call for a new model as a response to GBV matters, which the VRRS avails survivors.

As the Executive Director, Women Helping Hands Initiative, Osinbajo lent her voice for survivors to be helped, upheld, and restored.

"We must do so now. I'm eager to advocate for effective help for victims and sufferers as it is being demonstrated here today".

She went ahead to canvass for awareness for GBV, and enlistment of more people within the community to join the fight while calling for

swift and effective punishment for perpetrators to the full extent of the law.

While commending the initiative she said: "I applaud the initiators and all implementing partners for this innovative solution towards effective help and support for victims of gender-based violence. I applaud all the efforts of Spotlight Initiative and the UNFPA and DRSVT by the Lagos State and the host of persons and organisations holding up this process to ensure that work is done."

She also appreciated the efforts of law enforcement officials, social workers, legal aid assistants, community leaders, shelters, donors, concerned citizens, charity organisations, and all who have offered kind words and deeds to sufferers and survivors.

Leaving No One Behind Echoing the words of Osinbajo, the Country Representative of the UNFPA, Ms. Ulla Muller, who described GBV as a gross violation of human rights, women's rights, and violation of the right of justice, emphasised that "what we are doing here today is ensuring we leave no one behind. Providing accessible gender-based violence services is a step in attaining the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)".

In the SDGs, the country representative hinted that gender equality is an intrinsic and stand-alone goal, adding that "if we do not deliver on SDG 5, (gender equality) we will not be able to deliver on the SDGs". Hence, she cited the 2018 UN Nigerian Demographic Survey, which states that 27.7 per cent of women in Lagos experienced physical violence before age 15, which translates

into over 2.5 million women in Lagos alone.

While describing the flagship as one with so much potential, Muller said the GBV virtual referral service as an innovative service delivery model, she said the inspiration behind the launch grew out of COVID-19. It tells us that something good can come out of a crisis".

In her speech, the Lagos State Solicitor-General and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Justice, Ms Titilayo Shitta-Bey, explained that the system launched will enable them to ensure holistic support to survivors at no cost. She emphasised that survivors would be encouraged to actively pursue justice on their road to healing.

Representing CP Hakeem Odumosu, the Lagos state commissioner of police, CSP Yomi-Faniyi Gladys, OC Gender Lagos State Police Command, told participants that the issue of SGBV is life and death to many survivors.

The CP assured Lagosians that "we are working tirelessly to ensure that even when you can't talk to anybody you can walk into the police station and confidently talk to any officer. I will implore Lagosians to create more awareness for people to understand that this kind is no longer business as usual."

Odumosu also cautioned mothers to pay attention to the activities of their children and watch out for behavioural changes. Sadly, he added, "we also have on the increase cases of sodomy. It shows there is a serious problem.

If a man calls a man and wants to sleep with a man, it is either he has a mental disorder or a body disorder. In so doing, the CP has assured all that he will work with the Lagos State government in ensuring that this crime is brought to the nearest minimum."

The CP further assured the wife of the governor that he is solidly working with her for this crime to be reduced or totally eradicated.

Promise Kept Last year at the virtual 20th edition of the National Women Conference of the Committee of Wives of Lagos State Officials (COWLSO), the state governor had crossed his heart that his administration would do everything possible to ensure that victims of domestic violence and sexual abuse expeditiously get the necessary support to overcome the psychological trauma associated with such abuses.

In his remark, he pledged, "We will not relent until child abuse, domestic violence and other related acts are totally eradicated in our communities and in Lagos State as a whole. All the perpetrators will be prosecuted and victims will expeditiously get the necessary support to overcome the psychological trauma associated with the abuse."

With this, there is no doubt that the state government has matched its word with actions in ridding the state of sexual and gender-based violence for the good of girls and women, as well as young boys.

21

T H I S D AY ˾ Ͷ, 2021

FEATURES

All Things (Not So) Bright and Beautiful Okey Ifionu

I

n his nearly five years as the prelate of the Diocese of Lagos Mainland, Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), the Rt. Rev. Akinpelu Johnson has etched his theology and churchmanship on the spiritual walls of the Diocese, and I dare guess, in the hearts of his parishioners. I call him a master of theological dialectics and Anglo-catholicism.

If he was a painting artist, his canvas will be covered with fascinating works that reflect man's foibles and strengths and endless aspiration for perfection, all at once. But Bishop Johnson is a shepherd of souls and gifted teacher. And he does so in an uncommon style.

In his early days as the chief servant of our diocese, the response to his unique style of leadership and oversight among his clergy was a blend of both consternation and admiration for this rather "British man" who sees more than one side to every issue and can be amazingly candid. After nearly five years, it has also become obvious that this scion of a long priestly lineage is clear-eyed about his mission in his see. One of the ways he has demonstrated this is through his rather eerie choice of Synod themes.

Particularly striking is his theme for this year's diocesan synod that lasted from May 20 ---23. It was his fifth synod since he assumed office in August 2016 after an illustrious tenure as the Provost of Nigeria's oldest cathedral. Quite like the theme of last year's synod ("Amos: A Cry for Social Justice") this year's (All Things Bright and Beautiful) is quite evocative in its breadth and sweep.

Generally a synod theme tells you something about what matters to a diocese but also provides a window into the heart and passions of a prelate.

Whereas last year's synod theme mirrors Bishop Johnson's passionate interest in matters of social and economic justice in the society and church, this year's theme depicts unmistakably his concern for a healthy interaction between man and his environment. To some people such a theme might sound surrealistic or even utopian in a society like ours, but in truth Nigeria, like the rest of the world, is facing a clear and present danger arising from ecological abuse and mismanagement.

God certainly made all things bright and beautiful but it is no longer quite so in most parts of the world.

In other words, today all things are not so bright and beautiful on account of man's disregard for divine injunctions. If this is not the time to put this ominous situation on the front burner of public discourse one wonders when!

In his sprightly and eloquent style of presenting his presidential address during synods, Bishop Johnson expounded on the theme by looking into God's beautiful world at creation and the world in which we live today.

Clearly so much has gone wrong and much, if not all of it, is the fault of man.

Climate change, flooding, deforestation, landslides, air pollution to name just a few, are all consequences of man's abuse of the pristine ecology that God created and bequeathed to him.

True, God made all things and gave man dominion over them. But what is dominion? Bishop Johnson persuasively explains that the context in which the Bible uses the term, dominion implies NURTURE and not DESTRUCTION. God could not have mandated man to destroy what He had so beautifully

Prelate of the Diocese of Lagos Mainland, Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), the Rt. Rev. Akinpelu Johnson

and wonderfully made. Yet that is apparently what man is doing today.

Through indiscriminate tree felling and excavations, for instance, the Earth has become increasingly prone to landslides and desertification.

These have grave consequences for man, and unless man ceases from such practices the earth is in great danger of ruin.

What Bishop Johnson seeks to achieve is to draw attention to these issues and show that God's redemption is not just for man but also for other non-human components of the earth. He argues "that Christianity in Nigeria as it is currently understood and practiced...has given very little thought to creation and Man's role in it. The emphasis, it seems, is firmly rooted with the question of Man's individual eternal salvation." Yet just as important is the Gospel's concern "with the natural world as an object for redemption by Christ."

In effect more consideration needs to be given to the way man interacts with the natural world. How so paradoxical that man would need to be reminded of the importance of preserving himself by also preserving other non-human creations of God! One would have thought that self-preservation is instinctive. But the irony is that man has become willfully or otherwise the principal

architect of his own misfortune through practices that are highly detrimental to his environment.

Bishop Johnson calls for a volte-face by man in this fatal march towards self-destruction. When Nigerians mess up their environment with refuse of all kinds but particularly the plastic type, they must realise that that is a recipé for environmental crisis.

Plastics are not biodegradable and will definitely harm the soil on which man depends for his sustenance.

When we fell trees without planting new ones we are opening up the environment to desertification and aridity.

When we dredge rivers or reclaim flood basins without carefully assessing the environmental impact that such things can have in the near or distant future, we are endangering the earth. Whereas God made all things bright and beautiful (Genesis 1:31), man has progressively ruined that beauty. How unfortunate!

The crux of Bishop Johnson's address at the 2021 synod of his diocese is that ruining the earth is neither in man's best interest nor consistent with God's command that man tend the earth.

Of course there has been no shortage of excuses for man's mismanagement of the environment.

The main excuse is hinged on the

view that the Bible permits man to have dominion over all other creatures. While that may be true, it needs to be stressed that dominion is not the same as destruction. Bishop Johnson proved the fallacy of that notion in a nuanced exposition of that scripture. The earth, like every good mother, provides for us-- the flora and fauna, the solid minerals, rivers and oceans, etc. It is only proper then that we in turn care for it.

By improving his relationship with the environment, man is doing himself a great favour. In the words of Bishop Johnson: "The Church in Nigeria must urgently take a fresh look at the accounts of creation and embrace a new theological ethic of creation that reminds Man of his responsibilities to God to care for the natural world and the environment.

Our country is not immune from climate change and we have already started feeling its effects. It is clear that if the Church does not address the issue as a legitimate concern of God for His world, nature and the environment will destroy humanity." This is not alarmist but a real possibility if Nigerians continue to treat the environment so mindlessly. ...Ven. Okey Ifionu is a priest in the Anglican Diocese of Lagos Mainland.

22

TUESDAY JUNE 8, 2021 •T H I S D AY

LAWYER

A

WEEKLY PULLOUT

08.06.2021

Mrs Boma Ayomide Alabi, SAN

‘JUSUN STRIKE HAS GREATLY HAMPERED JUSTICE DELIVERY’

2/DASHBOARD

08.06.2021

LAWYER

A

WEEKLY PULLOUT

08.06.2021

Mrs Boma Ayomide Alabi, SAN

‘JU USU UN STRIKE STR RIKE HAS HAS S ‘JUSUN GR REA ATLY HAMPERED HAMPE ERE ED GREATLY JU UST TICE DELIVERY’ DE ELIVER RY’ JUSTICE

Action Against Public Officer Acting in the Country's Interest PAGE 4

Constitutional Review PAGE 5

QUOTABLES ‘The Constitution must be affirmative in its aspiration, if we want Nigerian women in governance, including political participation.

The Constitution should be bold enough to assert that event in clear terms, and not assume that people will pick it up.’ - Professor Ayodele Atsenuwa, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Development Services), University of Lagos ‘....Section 41 of the Constitution is plain....It is not labelled fundamental cattle rights....The land law in the country.....recognises the right of first settlers, so these grazers, these nomads that have come in, are trespassers......So, for anyone in the 21st century to now be so agitated about cattle rearers, some of them foreigners who are bringing weapons into the country, now being allowed to destroy farms and settlements in the name of freedom of movement....’ - Jiti Ogunye, Legal Practitioner, Lagos

NBA-SLP Set to Deliver ContentRich Conference in Uyo PAGE 6

SANs, Others, Laud Modern Weekly Law Reports at Presentation PAGE 11

/3

08.06.2021

When Government Sabotages Itself The Islamiyya Kidnap When this administration’s record is compared to the Fundamental Objectives and Directive Principles of State Policy contained in Chapter II of the 1999 Constitution, it is indisputable that they have not achieved the standards set therein, nor are they anywhere close, particularly failing woefully in their primary purpose to secure the lives and property of Nigerians (Section 14(2)(b) of the Constitution). The kidnap of 200 or so children of the Salihu Tanko Islamic School, Niger State just over a week ago, in broad day light I might add, is further confirmation of this failure. So far, 11 of the pupils were released by the kidnappers, because they were too young to walk. I pray for the safe return of all of them.

As I watched the interview of Abubakar Alhassan, the Head Teacher of the School on Friday, I broke down in tears. It was possibly my first time seeing a Nigerian man in tears, during a television interview. Mr Alhassan wept, and so did Tundun Abiola, one of the Anchors of the Arise Morning Show. It is getting unbearable. I cannot imagine the type of emotional trauma the Parents of these little children are going through, let alone the children themselves - both physical and emotional. Mr Alhassan whose daughter is also amongst the abductees, informed listeners that some of his students are orphans, being given an opportunity by the School to learn and obviously, better themselves. Apparently, as of the time of the interview, the fifth day after the abduction, there had been no Government intervention in the matter, just like in the case of the Forestry and Greenfield students of Kaduna. In the Greenfield case, the Authorities only showed up to provide transportation for the abductees upon their release, following the payment of the ransom by their Parents! Naturally, the Parents firmly and angrily (rightfully so) rebuffed the offer of Government’s ‘ride’, having been abandoned by them and left to stew when the going was tough.

The President’s Statement on the South East For a while, the public had been calling on President Buhari, to say something about the incessant kidnapping of students, and the state of the nation.

And, when the President eventually emerged to make a statement, it had nothing to do with the spate of kidnappings; I watched the videoclip of his statement, excerpts of which were used on his Twitter handle, and personally, I cannot say I found President Buhari’s statement as distasteful as some have, except for where he claimed that he does everything according to the Constitution. I actually found that part of his statement, quite amusing and unrealistic. The President even dared anyone to show him where he has not acted in accordance to the Constitution! The list is long, but one classic instance is infringing upon the right to freedom of the press and expression with the suspension of Twitter, while the lopsided appointments within the security apparatus with no adherence to Sections 1(2) and 14(3) of the Constitution, is another. Many even consider the President’s Patronship of Miyetti Allah yet another, arguing that it is a conflict of interest preventing him from upholding the Oath of President contained in the Seventh Schedule to the Constitution, which he swore to.

President Buhari spoke about the secessionists, and the seemingly anarchical situation in the South East. Interestingly, he made mention of the fact he would do everything possible to provide security, in order not to be accused of surreptitiously trying to secure a third term (possibly by declaring a state of emergency as provided for in Section 305 of the Constitution or invoking Section 135(3) of the Constitution by which if the President considers it impracticable to hold elections because the country is involved in a war, the National Assembly (NASS) can pass a resolution extending the President’s tenure by six months, and this resolution can be renewed ad infinitum, as long as it is passed as one six month extension at a time).

Some Nigerians however, took exception to President Buhari's statement about treating those perpetrating violence and burning national assets in the South East in a language that they understand, possibly because of his reference to the Nigerian Civil War (1967-1970). As Lawyers, we believe that the law must be left to take its course. Section 33(1) of the Constitution unequivocally guarantees everyone's right to life, except in the execution of a death sentence upon conviction for a criminal offence (like murder), while Section 36(1) and (5) of the Constitution provide for fair hearing and innocence until proven guilty.

Was it the President’s allusion to the Civil War, which reminds us of the genocide in which about three million Igbos perished during that war that upset people? Nevertheless, can we not give President Buhari the benefit of the doubt, that though his statement may have been seen by some as indelicate, we cannot take it to mean that he has instructed the Armed Forces to go

on a rampage and just kill Igbos in the South East at random, as that would be mass murder on his part (which he can be held accountable for, as it would be crimes against humanity)? I thought the President was trying to say that there was too much bloodshed during the war, and because those responsible for the mayhem now were possibly not born at the time of the civil war, they didn’t experience the trauma and devastation of war like they who were on the battlefield for 30 months, and as such, a repeat must be avoided at all cost. That said, while I will never condone violence and destruction of national assets as a response to this administration’s perceived or real marginalisation and exclusion, Government has the responsibility to refrain from stoking the fire of hatred and division that is raging in the South East, by living up to the constitutional ideals of equity, equality and fairness for all, including the South East. The fact that the South East zone has the least number of States - five, is one proof of the inequality and inequity. Though this state of affairs is not the making of this administration, they have done nothing to correct it.

However, the anger of the people may not be entirely without reason, because, in everything that concerns Nigeria, tribalism always rears its ugly head. Firstly, some argue that while the shoot-to-kill order on AK 47 bearing Herdsmen or whoever the criminals occupying the forests are did not seem to be particularly backed up with any battalions of soldiers going into the forests to raid or kill them; we understand that soldiers have already been drafted to the South East to take position.

They argue therefore, that the strategy being implemented in the South East, is harsher than that of the one being used for the Herdsmen. That the bandits/terrorists kidnapping in the North or the Herdsmen dealing with the people of Benue, are being mollycoddled by so-called negotiators and clerics, and for the Herdsmen, the Government.

But, was it not people like Governor Uzodinma who requested that the military be deployed to quell the violence there?

Secondly, our law enforcement and Armed Forces are famous for arbitrary abuse of power, to the point of killing and maiming non-offenders.

Issuing that type of carte-blanche to them, may prove to be endangering the lives of majority in the South East who are law abiding citizens. The #EndSARS Protest, the ensuing Lekki Tollgate incident, and the various Panels of Inquiry set up thereafter, have given Nigerians insight into how law enforcement agents brutalise, kill and maim innocent Nigerians for no reason. The fear that this reprehensible behaviour may be replicated by the Army in the South East, is therefore, palpable and not unfounded. Furthermore, laws like the Terrorism (Prevention) Act 2011, the Criminal Code Act, the Penal Code Act etc, more than provide for all the offences we have witnessed in the South East and other parts of the country, be it Terrorism, murder, destruction of property or kidnapping.

Be that as it may, as harsh or unpalatable as it may sound, there are exceptions to the right to life guaranteed by Section 33(1) of the Constitution, contained in Section 33(2)(a-c), which make it lawful to deprive another of his/her right to life - in defence of another from unlawful violence, to effect a lawful arrest/prevent escape from arrest, or for the purpose of suppressing a riot, insurrection or mutiny. Whoever is behind the attacks in the South East, whether IPOB or an unknown third force, this destruction of national assets and symbols of authority, along with the murder of Police Officers and those unfortunate enough to be at the wrong place at the wrong time, is nothing short of insurrection and terrorism, and the defence of the country against these attacks may fall into the category of these aforementioned exceptions.

I’m sure there is a general consensus that the reckless destruction of national assets (especially before it spreads all over the country), as well as kidnapping and grazing cattle on the farms of others (while maiming, raping and killing them) are all

unacceptable, and must be stopped. Nevertheless, it is imperative that Government hones up its investigative skills, and deploys technology and intelligence to apprehend troublemakers in the South East and the other parts of the country, as getting to the root by extracting as much information as possible, may also prove to be an effective way of curbing insecurity.

President Muhammadu Buhari

Tweeter CEO, Jack Dorsey

Suspension of Twitter: A Clampdown on Freedom of Expression While I do believe that Twitter overreacted on President Buhari’s tweet, what I found troubling was Government’s swift, egotistical, selfish, senseless, thoughtless and authoritarian reaction, that is, without consideration for the welfare of Nigerians, suspending Twitter activities here because the latter deleted President Buhari’s tweet, excerpts of his videoclip on the South East. Though Government’s behaviour through its mouthpiece Alhaji Lai Mohammed comes as no surprise, still, it is wrong to make Nigerians suffer for what is nothing more than a personal issue between President Buhari and Twitter. For one, it is unconstitutional, a breach of our fundamental right of freedom of expression. Nigeria is a signatory to various Charters, some domesticated in our laws, undertaking to support tools which will enhance our freedom of expression, not restrict it! The question is, whether Alhaji Mohammed or Government can simply wake up and infringe on our fundamental rights like that? The answer is a resounding No, unless of course, we are in a military dictatorship.

Many young Nigerians depend on Twitter as a means of livelihood, and furthering their businesses.

With the exceedingly high rate of unemployment among the youths, should Government be rendering more of them idle by suspending Twitter? Additionally, there will certainly be a drop in Nigeria’s GDP, because the millions of Nigerians who spend money buying data to utilise Twitter won’t be doing that until the suspension is lifted (if it is); this will most certainly result in a negative multiplier effect on our economy - a drop in telecoms revenue, and consequently, drop in tax revenue for the country and so on.

America and its people did not bear the brunt of President Trump’s misunderstanding with Twitter, why should we? But, when you have people who have the remit to advice the President on such matters like the Minister of Information, a Lawyer by training for that matter, whose utterances and actions have many a time given rise to people questioning his lucidity, this is what you get. Alhaji Mohammed has had it in for media organisations, for not painting Government and Nigeria in a positive light (remember the Lai Mohammed/ Amnesty International/CNN/#EndSARS saga), and Twitter particularly, since it refused to locate its offices in Nigeria, choosing a saner, safer and more conducive environment like Ghana instead.

Again, this latest reaction by the Nigerian Government shows that indeed, under this administration, Nigeria is not the place for Twitter to house its African operation. By this singular action, Government has once again portrayed itself as being backward, dictatorial and oppressive. Such an action will definitely discourage FDI which we badly need (apart from fellow authoritarian China, from whom Nigeria is enjoying endless loan facilities), which is also contrary to Section 16 of the Constitution. Who knows? Maybe if Twitter had had offices situated in Nigeria, their staff may have been arrested by now.

This administration, has been looking for ways to clamp down on our constitutionally guaranteed rights of freedom of the press, expression and association assured by the provisions of Sections 22, 39(1) and 40 of the Constitution respectively, and to them this incident afforded them an opportunity to do so. Is Alhaji Mohammed not aware that, when you sign up to make use of these social media platforms, you agree to adhere to their terms and conditions, not yours? It is not about whether Alhaji Mohammed finds President Buhari’s statement

“GOVERNMENT IS DOING AN EXCELLENT JOB OF DESTABILISING ITSELF BY ITSELF.....IT THEN TURNS AROUND TO BLAME OTHERS, AND PASSES THE BUCK TO TWITTER, PDP, LATE GENERAL MURTALA MUHAMMED, ADAM AND EVE, CAIN AND ABEL, EVERYONE ELSE BUT ITSELF, FOR ITS FAILURES, AND TO THE PRESS, FOR REPORTING THESE FAILURES AS NEWS”

to be as innocent as ‘Mary had a little lamb’; it is about Twitter, Facebook or whoever’s rules one must abide with, to make use of their device.

This move by the Nigerian Government leaves us in no doubt that they are the All Regressives Congress, because this is certainly not an action which Progressives would take.

Conclusion In conclusion, I can only reiterate what I have been shouting from the rooftop for quite a while - Government is doing an excellent job of destabilising itself by itself - making the wrong decisions and taking the wrong step at practically every given opportunity. It then turns around to blame others, and passes the buck to Twitter, PDP, late General Murtala Muhammed, Adam and Eve, Cain and Abel, everyone else but itself, for its failures, and to the Press, for reporting these failures as news. I do not deny the fact that indeed, there are many mischief makers who thrive on spreading fake news, but it is this Government’s incessant maladministration that gives them the impetus to do so. If Government was doing the right thing and Nigerians were relatively happy, there would be nothing negative to report or twist.

But, as things stand in the country, it is only NASS, top Government officials and Politicians who are happy, and they constitute only an infinitesimal percentage of the population of the whole country.

4/LAW REPORT

Action Against Public Officer Acting in the Country's Interest Facts On 23rd December, 1999, the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (“the President”) delegated the power to freeze the Appellant’s accounts, under the Banking (Freezing of Account) Act, to the Respondent. Based on the delegated authority, the Respondent wrote various letters to the governments or authorities of United Kingdom, Switzerland, Jersey, Liechtenstein and Luxembourg requesting for mutual assistance to freeze the accounts of the Appellant maintained in their respective countries, and steps were taken in this regard by the named countries. The Respondent also delegated powers to a certain Maitre Enrico Monfrini of Monfrini & Bottege Associates, Switzerland, to assist and represent the Federal Republic of Nigeria in this regard.

Sometime in October 2003, the Respondent requested that the funds in the accounts be transferred to Nigeria.

The Appellant, therefore, commenced an action against the Respondent via Originating Summons filed on 5th April, 2004 at the Kaduna Judicial Division of the Federal High Court. He sought the determination of some questions, including whether the Respondent, purporting to act on the powers of the President under the Banking (Freezing of Accounts) Act Cap29 Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 1990, can validly request a transfer of funds from the Appellant’s account maintained in the United Kingdom, Switzerland, Jersey, Liechtenstein, and Luxembourg, when the Appellant was yet to be convicted of any criminal offence under the laws in force in the Federal Republic of Nigeria. The Appellant also sought inter alia, a declaration that the President’s delegation of power to freeze the Appellant’s accounts on 23rd December, 1999 under the Banking (Freezing of Accounts) Act of 31st December, 1983 is ultra vires the powers of the President and consequently, illegal, unconstitutional, null and void, the said statute having been repealed on the 29th day of May, 1999.

The Respondent filed a Preliminary Objection contending principally that the action was statute barred, by virtue of the provisions of Section 2(2) of the Public Officers Protection Act (“POPA”). When the suit came up on 23rd July, 2004, the Respondent was absent from court when his Preliminary Objection was struck out, and argument was taken on the Originating Summons. The suit was, thereafter, adjourned to 23rd July, 2004 for delivery of judgement. However, the Respondent refiled his Preliminary Objection, and same was argued on 23rd July, 2004. A further date was fixed for delivery of judgement, without the Respondent being called upon to reply to the arguments made in support of the Originating Summons.

In its decision on the Preliminary Objection on 29th July, 2004, the trial court found that the POPA could not avail the Respondent, because the Federal Government had no authority to write the letters of request for mutual assistance since the Banking (Freezing of Accounts) Act of 1983 had been repealed in May, 1999. Dissatisfied, the Respondent successfully appealed to the Court of Appeal and this led to a further appeal to the Supreme Court by the Appellant.

Honourable Kudirat Motonmori Olatokunbo Kekere-Ekun, JSC

In the Supreme Court of Nigeria Holden at Abuja On Friday, the 22nd day of January, 2021 Before Their Lordships

Nwali Sylvester Ngwuta Musa Dattijo Muhammad Kudirat Motonmori Olatokunbo Kekere-Ekun Amina Adamu Augie Ejembi Eko Justices, Supreme Court SC.359/2010

THE INTEREST OF THE OVERALL

Court’s Judgement and Rationale The Supreme Court set out the provisions of Section 2(a) of POPA which provides that, an action shall not be instituted against any person for any act done in pursuance or execution or intended execution of any Act or law, or of any public duty or authority, or in respect of any alleged neglect or default in the execution of any such Act, Law, duty or authority, unless the action is commenced within three months of the act, neglect or default complained of. The court reckoned that there are at least three circumstances where the provision of Section 2(a) of POPA would apply to foreclose a litigant’s right of action against a public officer. Relying on the case of EGBE v ALHAJI (1990) 1 NWLR (Pt. 128) 546 at 568 – 568 N – A, the court held that the provision will apply to an action brought against a public officer in relation to any act done (a) in pursuance or execution or intended execution of any law; (b) in pursuance or execution of any public duty or authority; or (c) in respect of any alleged default or neglect in the execution of any law, duty or authority.

Further, the Apex Court held that where a public officer in the discharge of his statutory duties, reasonably believes that he is so empowered to act in the interest of the overall wellbeing of the country, and goes ahead to act accordingly, even where there is no existing law to back up his action, the POPA will protect him. In support of this position, their Lordships relied on the earlier decisions of the Apex Court in ALHAJI ABBA MOHAMMED SANI v THE PRESIDENT OF THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA & THE ATTORNEY-GENERAL OF THE FEDERATION – SC.68/2010, which facts and issues were on all fours with the instant case.

Also, the Supreme Court opined that malice or bad faith in the conduct of the public officer complained of would not vitiate the protection afforded under the Act, where the defence of limitation is raised in limine. The court found that in the instant case, the suit was filed outside the three months stipulated in Section 2(a) of POPA, and the issue of limitation was raised in limine. Consequently, the suit was statute barred, and was rightly struck out by the Court of Appeal.

WELLBEING OF THE COUNTRY,

Appeal Dismissed.

Between Alhaji Ali Abacha

Appellant

And Attorney-General of the Federation

Respondent

(Lead Judgement delivered by Honourable Kudirat Motonmori Olatokunbo Kekere-Ekun , JSC)

Issue for Determination The appeal was determined on the sole issue below Whether Section 2(a) of the Public Officers Protection Act availed the Respondent whose action was predicated on a repealed or non-existing law.

Arguments Arguing the sole issue, counsel for the Appellant contended that for a public officer to enjoy the protection of POPA in respect of an action brought after three months of the act complained of, the act must have been done in the execution of an Act or Law. He likened the facts of this case to the facts in the case of NWANKWERE v ADEWUNMI (1966) ANLR 119, and submitted that the Respondent purportedly acted based on powers conferred by the Banking (Freezing of Accounts) Act which had been repealed as at the time the various letters were written, requesting the assistance of foreign governments to freeze the Appellant’s accounts. He noted that the Supreme Court in EGBE v YUSUF (1992) 6 NWLR (Pt. 245) 1 referred to NWANKERE v ADEWUNMI as an instance where a public officer acted outside his statutory duty, and was therefore, not covered by the law.

Counsel submitted that the Court of Appeal erred when it held that the Respondent acted in compliance with the powers delegated to him by the President, because the Respondent could only exercise powers that the President could legally exercise. Since the Banking (Freezing of Accounts) Act had been repealed, the President could not exercise any power under the Act. In support of his position, counsel referred to Section 6(6)(b) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended) and the case of A-G FEDERATION v SODE (1990)

1 NWLR (Pt. 128) 500 at 544, and stated that POPA is not intended to have a blanket application in all cases where an action is commenced against a public officer after the three months limitation period.

Responding to the submissions above, counsel for the Respondent submitted that the Appellant misconstrued the provision of Section 2(a) of POPA. He stated that the said provision of POPA applies in three circumstances which are where the act of the public officer is in the execution or intended execution of – (i) any Act or law; (ii) any public duty; or (iii) authority. Counsel contended that the Respondent was acting within the colour of his office under Section 174 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended), in his office as the AttorneyGeneral of the Federation. He argued that a reasonable belief in the execution of public duty, even where there is no law authorising the act, offers the protection provided under the law. Counsel posited further that there was no imputation of bad faith against the Respondent, and even though he might have been accused of overzealousness or error of judgement, it was not sufficient to disentitle him from the protection under POPA. He referred to the case of OFFOBOCHE v OGOJA L.G. & ANOR. (2001) FWLR (Pt. 68) 1051 at 1067 – 1069 B – B. Further, the Respondent distinguished the decision in NWANKWERE v ADEWUNMI (supra), relied on by the Appellant, from the instant case. He stated that what was in issue in the case was abuse of power, which was not the situation in the instant case. It was also submitted for the Respondent that, subsequent to the case of NWANKWERE v ADEWUNMI (supra), the Supreme Court has held in other decisions that where an action is filed outside the statutory period, the court is not expected to pry into the conduct of the Defendant that gave rise to the action.

“......WHERE A PUBLIC OFFICER IN THE DISCHARGE OF HIS STATUTORY DUTIES, REASONABLY BELIEVES THAT HE IS SO EMPOWERED TO ACT IN

AND GOES AHEAD TO ACT ACCORDINGLY, EVEN WHERE

Representation R.O. Atabo Esq. with Dr. S.U. Osia, S.O. Atabor, O.D. Ogunniyi and I.O. Enagbonma for the Appellant.

THERE IS NO EXISTING LAW TO

D.C. Enwelum, SAN and S.C. Enwelum Esq. for the Respondent.

BACK UP HIS ACTION, THE POPA WILL PROTECT HIM”

Reported by Optimum Publishers Limited, Publishers of the Nigerian Monthly Law Reports (NMLR)(An Affiliate of Babalakin & Co.)

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08.06.2021

Constitutional Review

Remarks by the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila at the Opening of the Public Hearing on the Review of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria held at Marriott Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos on Tuesday, 1st June, 2021 “ A NATION’S CONSTITUTION, IS THE FOUNDATION OF ITS EXISTENCE. IT IS SUPPOSED TO SET THE TERMS OF OUR NATIONHOOD AND DE-FINE WHO WE ARE, IN A MANNER THAT REFLECTS BOTH OUR COMMON TRUTHS AND HIGHEST ASPIRATIONS. OUR CONSTITUTION FALLS SHORT OF THIS STANDARD......”

1. Good morning ladies and gentlemen. Thank you all for being here this morning.

2. We have gathered here today, as part of a deliberate ef-fort by the National Assembly to seek the guidance and support of citizens, towards amending the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. This is not the first time we have undertaken such a task, but this may very well be the most important constitutional amendment process in our nation’s recent history, because the decisions we make now will have far-reaching consequences for the future of Nigeria.

3. A nation’s Constitution, is the foundation of its existence. It is supposed to set the terms of our nationhood and de-fine who we are, in a manner that reflects both our common truths and highest aspirations. Our Constitution falls short of this standard, because the 1999 Constitution is the product of a hurried national compromise that we entered into a little more than two decades ago, in order to ensure that the military returned to the barracks and that we re-turned to democratic government.

4. It was always the intention that we will one day as one people and one nation, return to amend this document so that it gives voice to the yearnings of the Nigerian people, and sets out in clear details how we intend to achieve the shared ambitions of our nationhood. Providence has cast upon the 9th National Assembly, the responsibility to write such a Constitution for the Nigerian people.

5. The foundational constitution of the United States of America deemed people of colour to be ‘less than’, and de-nied women the right to vote. It did not include any limits on the President’s term of office, and allowed for citizens to be denied the right to vote for failure to pay the ‘poll tax’.

Twenty-seven reviews and amendments over one hundred years, cured these and other defects. No nation in the world has a perfect constitution, but we need a near perfect constitution in Nigeria and we can achieve that through substantive amendments that significantly alter the character of our nation.

6. Therefore, the task before us now is to use this process of review and amendment to devise for ourselves, a consti-tution that resolves the issues of identity and political struc-ture, of human rights and the administration of government, resource control, national security and so much else that have fractured our nation and hindered our progress and prosperity.

Our job is to produce a constitution that turns the page on our past, yet heeds its many painful lessons. It is

Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila

not an easy task, but it is a necessary and urgent one.

7. We will not be able to deliver on this historic assignment if we restrict ourselves to tinkering around the edges of the Constitution, or by imposing upon ourselves artificial red-lines that restrict honest conversation. We will have failed in our mandate, if the Constitution that emerges from this process continues to look to our past rather than reflect our present, and speak to our future. We have an opportunity for renewal, and we must seize it, or face the harsh judge-ment of history.

8. Through this constitutional review process, we have it in our power to restructure our government to make it more effective, reorganise our politics to make it more inclusive, enshrine efficient mechanisms for holding the institutions of state to account, and put an end to the debilitating conflicts that even now continue to tear our nation apart. We will do what is necessary to achieve these outcomes, because all of us in the House of Representatives recognise that this moment in our history is fraught with promise and peril, and the future of our country lies in our hands.

9. All off us in the House of Representatives will work con-scientiously and in good faith, so that it may be said of us in this process, that we made an audacious attempt at creat-ing for our nation, a Constitution that recognises our diver-sity and draws strength from it, and addresses once and for all, the fault lines that distract from nation building.

10. It is all too clear, that many of our citizens have come to expect too little of our politics and Government.

We are suffering from the tyranny of low expectations and the cynicism, that causes us to believe that the political process cannot produce anything worthy or worthwhile. I under-stand the causes of this cynicism, but I refuse to share in it. I still believe that politics and government in Nigeria can be a force for good, and that by our common endeavour we can achieve the vision of a just, peaceful, and prosperous society.

11. Therefore, I want to appeal to all Nigerians to see in this constitutional review process an opportunity to try to achieve the best version of Nigeria. The Public Hearings that are holding all over the country now, are an opportunity for citizen participation in addressing some of the most consequential questions of our nationhood. However, be-yond these Public Hearings, you still have an opportunity to make submissions that will be considered, and that will help this process achieve the best outcomes.

Please, by all means, participate. Let your voice be heard, and let your vi-sion also inform the direction of this process.

12. I want to thank all the individuals and organisations, that are already participating in this constitutional review process. I want to appreciate the efforts of the Chairman of the Special Committee on the Review of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon. Ahmed Idris Wase, and all the

members of the Com-mittee who are at this moment across the country conduct-ing public hearings such as this one. I am hopeful that our effort will yield success, and stand to our credit in the his-torical record.

13. I am honoured to be here today to declare this Public Hearing open, to the glory of God and in service of all the Nigerian people. I urge all who have come to participate here today, to do so with decorum and respect for one an-other. Let our deliberations be well-intentioned, well in-formed, and reflect our patriotism. In this way, we will have a most productive engagement over the next two days.

I thank you all once more, for being here today.

14. May God bless and keep you, and may God bless our Federal Republic of Nigeria.

6/

08.06.2021

NBA-SLP Set to Deliver Content-Rich Conference in Uyo Sunday, June 13 to Wednesday, June 16, 2021, will see the who-is-who in the Nigerian legal profession converging in the city of Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, for the Nigerian Bar Association Section on Legal Practice’s Annual Conference. The star-studded Conference which will be declared open by the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Hon. Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad, has as Keynote Speaker, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila. Chairman of the 2021 Conference Planning Committee, Chief Ferdinand Orbih, SAN, in a brief chat with Onikepo Braithwaite and Jude Igbanoi, gave reasons why every Lawyer in Nigeria should endevour to register and attend the Conference which will be held both virtually and physically, with strict compliance to Covid -19 Protocols

Y

ou are the Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Section on Legal Practice Conference Planning Committee of the 2021 Annual General Conference, which is scheduled to take place June 13 - 16 in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State. Kindly, give us an overview of the Conference. What is the theme, this year? How do Members register?

Will this Conference be a hybrid of virtual and physical attendance, as a result of the Covid-19 Pandemic? If so, what is the maximum number that will attend physically? What protocols have you put in place, to protect those who will attend the Conference physically?

The theme of the Conference is ‘Law, Lawyers and the Next Generation’. The NBA Section on Legal Practice (SLP), in keeping with its core mandate to assist members to develop and improve their legal services to the public, has put together this Conference scheduled to take place in Uyo from the 13th to the 16th of June, 2021 at the Ibom Icon Hotel and Golf Resort. We have painstakingly ensured a content-rich Conference, where a galaxy of some of the brightest and best brains in the legal profession and the larger Nigerian society will present and discuss topical legal issues shaping the legal profession, both now and in the future.

The Premium Showcase Session will beam its searchlight on the peculiarities of the political, economic and socio-cultural aspects of life in Nigeria from the perspectives of public officers, rights activists, professionals and corporate administrators. The Showcase Session shall, apart from identifying the factors that are responsible for the lack of progress in our national life, look at how to make Nigeria work for us.

Judicial Autonomy is right now on the front burner of societal discourse.

What should the Judiciary do with its autonomy, if it wins it at the end of the present titanic struggle? The Conference is primed to provide an answer to this burning question.

The world as we used to know it has changed forever, because of the Covid-19 pandemic. Covid-19 tests are now mandatory for travellers across the globe.

Mandatory vaccination for international travellers, is currently being contemplated by many countries. This “new normal” arising from the pandemic is what has informed SLP to focus on Vaccination Mandates and the Law, at its forthcoming Uyo Conference.

We shall also look inwards to highlight current challenges facing the profession, with a view to repositioning it for greater impact and effectiveness. Towards this end, the Conference shall examine emerging trends in the establishment and development of law firms in Nigeria, especially with the emergence of arbitration and conciliation as a force in dispute resolutions, as well as the need for specialisation in different areas of legal practice. Similarly, issues such as financing Law Firms, data protection and cyber security shall be examined in detail at the Conference, with a view to preparing law firms for present and future challenges in these areas of legal practice.

NBA-SLP CPC Chairman, Chief Ferdinand Orbih, SAN

Chairman, NBA-SLP, Seun Abimbola, SAN

We shall round off the Conference with a Young Litigators’ Debate, which shall square up to determine Whether Police Can Enforce the Law without Breaking It. Participation in this debate started with prequalification rounds already held, and the finalists will be some of our best to debate this topic at the Conference.

The Conference shall be a hybrid one, that is, attendance shall be by both physical

and online. To register you must log on to www.nba-slp.org. The process is seamless, as you will be prompted throughout the registration process.

"THE PREMIUM SHOWCASE SESSION WILL BEAM ITS SEARCHLIGHT ON THE PECULIARITIES OF THE POLITICAL, ECONOMIC AND SOCIO-CULTURAL ASPECTS OF LIFE IN NIGERIA FROM THE PERSPECTIVES OF PUBLIC OFFICERS, RIGHTS ACTIVISTS, PROFESSIONALS AND CORPORATE ADMINISTRATORS. THE SHOWCASE SESSION SHALL, APART FROM IDENTIFYING THE FACTORS THAT ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR THE LACK OF PROGRESS IN OUR NATIONAL LIFE, LOOK AT HOW TO MAKE NIGERIA WORK FOR US"

What are your plans regarding the security of Conferees coming to Uyo? We are all aware that the level of insecurity in the country is unprecedented, and Akwa Ibom State which has had at least five attacks on its INEC’s offices, has not been spared from the insecurity Delegates should rest assured that no stone will be left unturned to ensure their safety right from arrival in Uyo, at their hotels and at the Conference venue. The issue of security in present-day Nigeria, is not one to be taken lightly. However, you will agree with me that pages of Newspapers are not fit and proper, for a discussion of the details of the security arrangement for the Conference.

What are the CPC’s plans regarding accommodation for Lawyers, especially those who may not be financially buoyant? How will NBA-SLP ease the financial burden of the Conference for young Lawyers, particularly those who will be attending physically?

The importance of assisting young Lawyers to attend the conference cannot be overemphasised. Towards this end, the Conference Planning Committee (CPC) has worked out an arrangement with hotels, motels and guest houses in Uyo, to give our conferees generous discounts during the Conference. The details of the arrangement, are already on various Lawyers’ social media platforms across the country.

In addition, we have worked out a rebate on air tickets to Uyo for the Conferees with Ibom Air, to enable as many Lawyers as possible to attend the Conference.

Who is the Keynote Speaker for the Conference? Which other Speakers have

been lined up? What are the Conference highlights?

The Chief Justice of Nigeria, Hon. Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad will Chair the opening ceremony, while the Keynote Address will be delivered by the Speaker of the House of Representatives, the Right Honourable Femi Gbajabiamila. At every event during the conference, there will be cross-pollination and cross -fertilisation of ideas between the Legal Practitioners, Political Leaders and the larger Nigerian society.

Societal challenges such as systemic corruption, wide spread insecurity and emigration of our human resources will be x-rayed by Governors Nyesom Wike of Rivers State, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN of Ondo State, Emmanuel Udom of Akwa-Ibom State (the host Governor), as well as Professor Pat Utomi and Ms. Kadaria Ahmed.

The topic: The End of Litigators, Awakening the Next Generation will be handled by very experienced litigators as well as young lawyers such as, Funke Adekoya, SAN, Boma Alabi, SAN, Chukwuka Ikwazom, SAN, Soibi Ovia Esq., Dr. Orowhuo Okocha and Adesile Obasa, Esq. E. C. Ukala, SAN shall chair the discussion on Judicial Autonomy while Hon, Justice B. B. Kanyip (President of the National Industrial Court), Hon. Justice O. A. Williams (Rtd.), Dr. Babatunde Ajibade, SAN, Uko Udom, SAN, Hon. Onofiok Luke and Jonathan Taidi are the panelists for that session.

Y. C. Maikyau, SAN, Professor Zubairu Iliyasu (Chair NHREC), Laolu Osanyin (Vice-President, World Association for Medical Law), Aisha Ado Abdullai (Registrar, Institute of Chartered Mediators and Conciliators) and Agba Eimunjeze are set to discuss the topic Vaccination Mandates and the Law. What provisions have you made for older members of the NBA-SLP who are not internet savvy, and may not be able to register for the Conference online? Will there be provision to register at the Conference venue, or what plans have you put in place to ensure that they are not excluded from the Conference?

The obvious need to strictly observe the National Covid-19 protocols, allows us to only allow for limited onsite registration for the Uyo 2021 Conference at the venue.

There is also need for us to be certain about the number of delegates who intend to physically attend the Conference. This is to enable us attend to such details as the number of face masks and hand sanitisers, to be provided at the venue. It will also enable us to make the necessary sitting arrangements, in line with the already established Covid-19 protocols. So, registration for the Conference is primarily online.

As for the older members of the Bar who may not be internet savvy, we are sure that they should have juniors in chambers and/or children who can help them go through the registration process.

The Uyo 2021 Conference promises to be interesting and exciting, and all Lawyers in Nigeria should endeavour to attend it.

Thank you.

08.06.2021

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08.06.2021

‘JUSUN Strike has Greatly In a profession where there is almost parity between both genders in terms of numbers, to have only a meagre 5% of females at the Inner Bar, is appalling and a cause of concern for many female Lawyers in Nigeria. There are however, indications that this status quo might change in the not too distant future, as more female Senior Advocates continue to voice out the need to have more of their ilk as Silks. Onikepo Braithwaite and Jude Igbanoi caught up with learned Senior Advocate, Mrs Boma Ayomide Alabi, who was elevated to the rank last year. A rare amazon who has been opportune to have been several firsts, including being the first female, non-Caucasian President of the Commonwealth Lawyers Association and first Black President of Female Lawyers Association of England and Wales, she spoke on a myriad of issues, including Police brutality and impunity, the debilitating effects of the ongoing JUSUN strike, and the retirement age of Jurists

C

ongratulations on your elevation to the rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria.

Apparently, there are only about 50 female Silks or so.

Why? Is it that many women are not interested in aspiring to attain the rank, or is it too difficult for them?

Is there gender discrimination in favour of the men in the legal profession in Nigeria, especially for the coveted positions, because even for the Supreme Court, it took years before Hon. Justice Aloma Mukhtar became the first female JSC and subsequently, first and only female CJN, and in the NBA Dame Priscilla Kuye has been the only female President of the Bar so far? What do you think is the reason for this?

The number of women admitted to the Inner Bar is very low, in comparison to our male colleagues. No doubt about that. So far, including the bumper harvest of 2020, we are still less than 25 in number, from the inception of the rank to date.

That is less than 5% of the entire number of Silks. It is quite simply, an indictment of our system. The statistics illustrate this. At entry level, we have more or less gender parity in the profession. This has been the case for the last twenty-five years, at the very least.

In my years at the Faculty of Law in Rivers State University as well as the Law School, well over thirty years ago, I certainly did not feel like women were in the minority.

So, we are entering the profession in equal numbers. However, as we rise in the profession, the women are leaving or stagnant, and the question is, why? The reasons are not far fetched. It is the same reason far fewer women were making partner, when I was Chair of the Association of Women Solicitors of Law Society of England and Wales. If memory serves, we had a disparity in pay of about 27% for women doing the same work as their male colleagues,

Mrs Boma Ayomide Alabi, SAN

“THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE ORDINARY NIGERIAN AND THE CONSTITUTED AUTHORITY YOU REFER TO, IS ABUSIVE AND DYSFUNCTIONAL. IT DID NOT BEGIN TODAY. OUR POLICE FORCE WERE TRAINED TO PROTECT THE COLONIAL AUTHORITY AND THEIR ASSETS, AGAINST THE NATIVES. NOTHING HAS CHANGED”

and even worse for the numbers who made partner, less than 20% or thereabouts at the time. It greatly improved in England, because of the work of organisations like the Fawcett Society which researches and provides information on gender inequality in addition to advocacy and education. Armed with information, we could demand changes to traditional work schedules, which in turn meant that more women could return to work after taking maternity leave, and also get paid as well as their male counterparts for doing the same work. Unfortunately, Covid-19 has eroded some of those gains, as women were disproportionately affected by the pandemic, with home schooling and the entire family at home in a bauble, guess who has to feed the starving hordes, teach, clean, wash up and so on? Stress levels doubled. Paying work had to give way to housework, and the rest as they say, is history.

You were quite vocal over some national issues during the #EndSARS protests. Looking back at the entire event and its aftermath, what lessons would you say have been learnt, including the loss of lives and government recrimina-

tions? There were indeed, some shocking revelations at the Lagos State Panel of Inquiry, about alleged killings at the Lekki Tollgate by soldiers who sought to cover up their misdeeds by spiriting away corpses to their barracks, and picking up as many spent bullet casings as possible, and as usual, it seems that the perpetrators will get away with their heinous crimes against humanity of opening fire on unarmed young Protesters, with the elaborate cover up that has already taken place. The #EndSARS protests were about stopping Police brutality.

How effective would the protests have been if ironically, the Army are allowed to get away with their brutality? What in your opinion, were the results that the protests achieved, before they were hijacked by hoodlums?

Police brutality and impunity, has been a long standing issue in Nigeria.

As a University student and young person growing up in Nigeria, I was a constant target and can empathise with this generation. You see, I used to drive to University and back home to D/Line in Port Harcourt, and was regularly harassed by the Police at the Olu Obasanjo check point on

COVER/9

08.06.2021

Hampered Justice Delivery’ my way home. After a while, they gave up on me because I would not give a bribe and was prepared to spend as much time as they wished behind the counter.

The last occasion this happened, I had left my University a little before 9pm and was detained behind the counter until about 2.30am. The journey between the University and my home was less than 10 minutes, at that time of night. There were no mobile phones. I was about 18 years old. This culture of impunity and preying on vulnerable citizens has carried on unchecked, and has developed into the hydra-headed monster leading to regular extrajudicial murder of citizens who are unable or unwilling to pay the extortionate sums demanded to ‘bail’ themselves. In view of my personal experience and knowledge of the level of ongoing cases of Police brutality, I was in full support of the #EndSARS movement to a point, after which I came to the sad conclusion that the organisers had not applied sufficient thought to the next steps, and became apprehensive for the final outcome. #EndSARS came forward with a number of demands. The Federal Government acceded to these demands. The next step ought to have been a dialogue on implementation of the changes, thus, building on the ground gained from the protest.

Instead, the organisers carried on with the street protests, and, moved away from peaceful protest to obstructing citizens going about their daily business. You cannot enforce your rights, by infringing on the rights of others. We are all aware of the famous saying, “Your rights stop where my nose begins”.

After the first week, the protest predictably began to attract questionable characters who took advantage of the blockade to harass citizens and dispossess them of their valuables. The menace on the streets was palpable.

I recall travelling back from Ibadan on a Saturday, and facing at least 12 #EndSARS blockades along the way.

I say at least, because I only started counting after perhaps the second or third one. A journey that usually takes at the most a couple of hours on a Saturday morning took well over 10 hours, and that was only because I would get out of the car and engage with these individuals, until I persuaded them to open at least one lane to traffic. They were mostly intoxicated and partying on the highway, burning tires and destroying our common wealth. It had got out of hand. Anarchy was looming, and there was not one Police Officer in sight, presumably in a bid not to exacerbate the situation.

Eventually, Lagos State Government imposed a curfew, and then troops

“THE NATIONAL ASSEMBLY MEMBERS SHOULD REDIRECT THEIR ENERGY AND OUR RESOURCES TOWARDS SAFEGUARDING THE NIGERIAN CITIZEN, RATHER THAN VICTIMISING THE VICTIM” Mrs Boma Ayomide Alabi, SAN

were unleashed. A night of total mayhem followed, where citizens were at the mercy of rioters and looters. The Government reaction was malevolent and retributive.

There was no attempt to protect the citizens. It was simply a show of force in the worst style of the old military dictatorship, and I remember thinking Idi Amin will be right at home in Nigeria tonight. The narrative thereafter, has not inspired confidence either. As we well know, two wrongs don’t make a right. Sadly, this is the case here, as the #EndSARS protest has not achieved its objective, and the situation is even worse now than before the protest.

Many are of the opinion that the ongoing public hearings on the 1999 Constitution review is rather hurried, haphazard, stage managed in favour of the status quo, and mostly uncoordinated for such a major national exercise.

What in your view, should be the best approach towards reviewing the Nigerian Constitution?

I share this view. We have an unfortunate habit, of regularly chucking our babies out with the bathwater. There was a constitutional conference convened a few years ago, with input from Nigerians from all walks of life. That was abandoned.

Was that not a consultation? There are proposals that should not even be considered, by any right thinking and patriotic Nigerian. Increase the numbers in the over bloated National Assembly in the name of gender whilst entrenching gender discrimination and imbalance? Classic Machiavelli in my opinion.

Some very senior Lawyers have advocated that the retirement age

of Supreme Court Justices be upwardly reviewed. At what age would you suggest that Justices of the Apex Court retire?

I think the entire concept of a compulsory retirement age, is discriminatory and arbitrary. If the jurists were in practice, they could choose to continue in practice for as long as they are in good health and willing to carry on. Why should it be any different, because you are a judicial officer? There should be a uniform age across the board where Nigerian citizens are entitled to retire and enjoy their well-earned retirement benefits; however, that choice should be left to the citizen. It should not be mandatory or arbitrary. In some cases it is 30 years of service regardless of age, in others it is 55 years, in some 65 and others 70.

Does not make sense to me, at all.

Many have expressed the view that if the almost two months JUSUN strike were to happen in advanced democracies, such countries would almost crumble.

How has Nigeria managed to survive when justice delivery has ground to a halt? Does this speak to the fact that the wheels of justice are so slow here, that two months of inactivity make no difference?

It is a dreadful thing that we are unable to take forward urgent applications, such as fundamental human rights applications. If clients are invited by the Police, you are duty bound to inform them that if they are detained without charge beyond the limit permitted by law, there is nothing you can do to assist them to enforce their rights until the courts reopen, whenever that may be. Too sad. Of course, two months

of inactivity makes a difference! Even more so following the Covid-19 lock down and damage to our courts in Lagos, as a result of the arson and looting on that night of horrors in the name of #EndSARS. It is a shame that the Executive is so uncaring about the citizens they were elected to serve, that they have permitted this impasse to last for this long. There is clearly no consideration for the citizen; it appears we only matter when it is election time. Otherwise, how do you explain the fact that no one seems to be particularly disturbed that we have nowhere to go, to settle issues relating to custody of our children, overbearing landlords or recalcitrant tenants, commercial disagreements and debt recovery, enforcing our fundamental human rights when infringed upon by the Police and so on. The list is endless.

The effect is further breakdown of the rule of law, and descent into anarchy as citizens resort to self-help out of desperation.

The constitutional provisions in respect of Judiciary funding seem rather hazy in terms of the cont'd on page 10

10/COVER

08.06.2021

‘JUSUN Strike has Greatly Hampered Justice Delivery’ cont'd from page 9

capital expenditure of the State High Courts, and both capital and recurrent expenditure of the lower courts, only stating expressly that the recurrent expenditure of the Superior Courts of Record, both Federal and State should be borne by the Federal Government (and implying that obviously all the expenditure of all Federal courts should also be borne by the Federal Government). What in your opinion, would be a suitable solution to the funding of the Judiciary, especially to concretise its independence?

I recall paying a courtesy visit on the Chief Justice of Ghana some years back, in my capacity as the President of the Commonwealth Lawyers Association. The Court was engaged in developing a five year plan for the entire Ghanaian Judiciary, and consequential budget. I would like to see something similar in relation to our Judiciary, where there is a cohesive needs assessment and a resulting plan for implementation as a first step. Then we will have clarity as to how best to fund it, and where from.

patriarchal society. She is expected to endure and continue to suffer, until such time as the husband gets too old and frail to beat her up. No one mentions the women who die from domestic violence, when counselling the victim to stay in the abusive situation and endure. Why then would domestic violence not be on the rise?

I am so grateful to Lagos State for leading from the front on this issue, and the issue of rape and sexual assault. Lagos has achieved close to 100 convictions on rape and sexual assault cases, in recent times. The message is out there, every domestic violence incident is a potential homicide, and the State is providing support for victims of domestic violence. Therein lies your panacea. An action must be followed by a consequence. If you harm someone, be it in a domestic setting or elsewhere, you should not be indulged and permitted to get away with it. You must suffer the consequences of your action. That is the only deterrent, to further bad behaviour.

Mrs Boma Ayomide Alabi, SAN

paid a ransom for his release. Will The South East is on fire. Gov- he be fined? The entire concept is ernment installations like Police ludicrous! The National Assembly Stations and INEC Offices are members should redirect their energy being destroyed regularly. What, and our resources towards safeguardin your opinion, is the reason for ing the Nigerian citizen, rather than this rebellion against constituted victimising the victim. authority in the South East? What Your tenure as President of the gain is there, in destroying precious installations which will have to be rebuilt?

The relationship between the ordinary Nigerian and the constituted authority you refer to, is abusive and dysfunctional. It did not begin today.

Our Police Force were trained to protect the colonial authority and their assets, against the natives. Nothing has changed. This is why the average Nigerian does not recognise that, State assets are actually the people’s common wealth. Why would you burn BRT buses and court houses otherwise? Who travels in the BRT bus? Having said that, I believe there is something more sinister playing out in the South East, which will come to light eventually.

“NO ONE MENTIONS

What is your stand on the Bill the Senate is seeking to pass prohibiting the payment of ransom in the case of kidnap, and prescribing a 15-year jail sentence on anyone found guilty of paying such ransom?

On this one, I will simply quote Fela, and say, “double wahala for dead body”. The Bill, if passed, will victimise the victim further. What choice does the citizen have? I’ll give you an example, that is sadly becoming an every day occurrence.

An individual boards a taxi with other occupants and one of them then pulls out a pistol, they take the innocent passenger, who is now a kidnap victim to the nearest cash point, get him to empty his account and then release him thereafter. He has

THE WOMEN WHO DIE FROM DOMESTIC VIOLENCE, WHEN COUNSELLING THE VICTIM TO STAY IN THE ABUSIVE SITUATION AND ENDURE. WHY THEN WOULD DOMESTIC VIOLENCE NOT BE ON THE RISE?”

Commonwealth Lawyers Association was quite monumental. But, after your exit, there doesn’t seem to have been a sustained effort to get Nigerian Lawyers seriously involved in CLA programmes.

How do we bring CLA closer to Nigerian Lawyers again?

My tenure was Nigeria’s tenure, because I had intimate knowledge of the challenges our colleagues face as well as our dilatory tendencies, so I would take the trouble to engage with the Government of the Conference host Country and their High Commissions in Nigeria, to ensure that our Nigerian delegates were issued visas expeditiously. I would hold speaking slots for Nigerian speakers during the conference planning meetings, because I knew that the speakers would generally confirm much later than other countries. We now have Miannaya Essien, SAN on the ExCo of the CLA, and she is doing a superb job of raising the profile again in Nigeria. Also, the NBA is regularly sending out information on CLA activities, so I have no doubt the next Conference will have an impressive Nigerian participation.

The incidence of domestic violence, rape of minors of both sexes, incest is inexplicably on the increase in Nigeria. What in your opinion, is wrong with our society? Any suggested panacea?

When we talk about domestic violence, men and women can be victims of domestic violence. Invariably, where the man is the victim, shame silences and he continues to suffer in silence. So, it is rather difficult to ascertain the true extent of this, and equally difficult to assist such men.

Where the woman is the victim, it is tolerated and indulged by our

You were Chairwoman of the Association of Women Solicitors of England and Wales, how are you able to joggle your practice in both jurisdictions, especially now that you have taken Silk in Nigeria?

With your foreign experience, give us just two suggestions as to what can be done to improve the practice of law in Nigeria.

I am currently not involved in any regulated activity in England and Wales. I do have a number of niche retainers related to the United Kingdom and the Isle of Man, which I can easily look after from where ever I am located. That enables me to focus on my practice in Nigeria, and my passion for mentoring in the profession.

In order to improve our practice of law in Nigeria, we have to put in place a minimum standard for all legal practitioners. Lawyers are setting up in practice, with no experience and no tools. Before you can set up a law firm in England, you have to undergo management training, similar to a mini MBA, to ensure that you understand the rudiments of running a business. A law firm is a business providing legal services.

Our training in Law School does not equip us to run a business, and that ought to be a mandatory additional training provided by the Nigerian Bar Association. The NBA must also put in place a minimum wage payable to new wigs, because the level of exploitation of new wigs in Nigeria is quite simply unacceptable. Naturally, there are many kind and generous seniors who provide adequately for their juniors and I acknowledge such colleagues, they are many, but, we must ensure that those who are exploitative and mean, are not given carte blanche!

Thank you Learned Silk.

NEWS /11

08.06.2021

JUSUN Strike: Time to Break the Deadlock In a recent statement on the JUSUN Strike, the immediate past Lagos State AttorneyGeneral and Commissioner of Justice, Mr Adeniji Kazeem, SAN said it was to break the deadlock and protect the rule of law. He said: “If you count last year’s Covid -19 induced lockdown and the present JUSUN induced Judiciary shutdown, there have been close to 240 days (approximately eight months) that the Nigerian Judiciary has been comatose or semi-comatose. This is a dangerous development for any democracy.”

Mr Kazeem, SAN stated that, while the bone of contention by JUSUN which was the cause of the recent shut down is the quest for financial autonomy or independence, this agitation is not new, as there had been previous industrial actions which led to some reforms and peripheral changes. He went on to say that the question to be asked, is whether the present version of financial autonomy is working effectively across the States? Responding that sadly, the answer to his question is no.

“In 2018 the President assented to a constitutional amendment via the Constitu-

Mr Adeniji Kazeem, SAN

tion of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999, (Fourth Alteration, No. 4) Act, 2017 which provided among others, for the financial autonomy of States’ Legislative and the Judicial arms of Government, in line with the practice at the Federal Level. This was followed by Executive order 10 by the President, which sought to goad State Governments to comply with the constitutional

provisions on autonomy. Many State Governors felt it was an unwarranted usurpation of their constitutional executive powers to control and apportion funds, albeit with the approval of the Legislature.

Defiantly, most State Governments refused to act on the Executive Order No.10, and this is what has essentially brought us to the present precipice.”

The Learned Senior Advocate continued, stating that the situation is very bad in many States across the Federation, such that many Judiciaries have to go “cap in hand” to the Executive each time critical funds are needed for the Judiciary. He however, qualified this by stating that in Lagos and perhaps, in a few other States it is not so; that over the years, the Lagos

SANs, Others, Laud Modern Weekly Law Reports at Presentation Senior Lawyers, law teachers and other dignitaries have unveiled a new law report titled the Modern Weekly Law Reports (MWLR).

Published by Doyen Law Publishers Ltd, the MWLR is a weekly law report focusing exclusively on Appellate Court decisions.

The Editor-in-Chief, Dr. Doyin Awoyale, who heads Doyen Law Publishers’ Editorial Board, said he is determined to sustain the MWLR as the best law report in the country, DQG WR PDNH LW DͿRUGDEOH DQG easily accessible to all Lawyers, hence the N1500 price tag.

MWLR has monthly, quarterly, bi-annual and annual subscription plans, with a GLJLWDO HGLWLRQ LQ WKH R΀QJ Law lecturer at Redeemers University in Osun State, Prof Bukola Akinola, who is one of the Editors of the Modern Weekly Law Reports, lauded its strong Editorial Board, which includes Senior Advocates of Nigeria.

He said: “I know a learned Silk already booking for 10 years’ subscription of the Modern Weekly Law Reports.

“The cases are properly numbered, the names of the parties are properly spelt out, Coram (presiding Judges on a Panel), and their roles, the suit, appeal numbers are properly disseminated, the date decided, etc.

“Areas of law touched by the cases and summary of issues raised therein, issues for determination, the facts, the holdings and ratios are properly paragraphed and indexed and paginated. MWLR conforms to the radical law reporting of the Indian order of legal reports”.

Managing Partner at Abdullahi Ibrahim & Co, Adetunji Oyeyipo, SAN, expressed conÀGHQFH LQ 'U $ZR\DOH·V DELOLW\

L-R: Adetunji Oyeyipo, SAN, Henry Ituen, Dr Doyin Awoyale, Mr Fubara Anga, SAN, Prof Bukola Akinola and Prof Olufemi Abifarin at the Presentation of Modern Weekly Law Reports (MWLR) in Lagos to make the book stand out, despite competition.

“For those of us who know Doyin, he’s a Lawyer and an academic. He portrays the SURÀOH RI D EXQGOH RI FRQWUROOHG energy.

“He has an unquenchable thirst for intellectual development, and he still retains energy to engage in rigorous practice.

Where he gets his energy from, remains a mystery to me.

“Doyin has brought to reality another dream of his, E\ SXEOLVKLQJ WKH ÀUVW YROXPH of the Modern Weekly Law Reports. It contains decisions of the Supreme Court and the Court of Appeal, being the two most senior courts in Nigeria.

“The summary of each decision is expressed in easy to follow language, and it goes to the essence of the decision in the case reported. So, if you have any pronouncement of the Supreme Court in your favour in any case, you can be almost sure that you have won that case”, he said.

Founding Partner at AELEX, Fubara Anga, SAN, also endorsed the Law Report. He said: “Doyin’s life should be

a metaphor for the art of the possible, the art of what can happen if you ignore all the negative things and say ‘I will just focus on the positives’.

“He started his law practice in Calabar, worked in a company, and started his own ÀUP ,Q WKH LQWHUYHQLQJ SHULRG would drive to Ibadan for a

Masters’, would drive to Awka for a PhD. “In the middle of all this, he had the wisdom to think about contributing to our profession by birthing, through a special purpose vehicle, the Modern Weekly Law Reports. It’s an example of what is possible if you put your mind to it.”

State Judiciary in particular has progressively and commendably evolved into as near as what an ethically and financially independent Judiciary should be, but we must be honest to say it is not yet “Uhuru”.

The former AG gave some clarity as to how the budget of a State Judiciary was prepared, saying: “The budget of a State Judiciary typically starts with rough estimates or “envelopes” prepared by the Ministry of Budget, to guide the Judiciary in preparing their budget. The Chief Registrar (Accounting officer) in consultation with the Chief Judge, fine tunes the draft budget and engages in a bilateral meeting with the Budget office to further fine tune the budget. The fine-tuned budget, along with that of other Ministries, Department and Agencies goes to the House of Assembly for consideration. This process is usually very thorough, and the Chief Registrar is asked to defend the budget of the Judiciary. Revenue and expenditure proposals are critically scrutinised by different Committees, before the Assembly approves the budget and It is eventually signed into Law by the Governor.

The Judiciary’s budget will typically include, recurrent and capital expenditure.

The recurrent deals with overheads and fairly routine determinable expenses arising on a month to month basis or periodically, while capital is for huge specific projects”.

He further explained that, “after passage and signing of the budget, it now enters the implementation stage and the release of funds by the Executive. It is important to note that, contrary to most impressions, there are typically no funds ready to spend from day one of a budget, as expenditure and revenue are based on estimates and projections, which will not yet have materialised.

“It is the release of funds to the Judiciary, that is the crux of the problem that has generated the anger and agitation of JUSUN. In some States the Judiciary has to practically beg for recurrent expenditure, while the capital expenditure is very poor or largely non-existent.

The Executive will argue that as budgetary regulated

constitutional fund managers of revenue and expenditure, they must juggle and manage scarce resources between the three arms of Government.

They say any attempt to create “three heads” of one household, is a recipe for disaster.

“On the other hand, JUSUN says the Executive should stop giving patronising and compromising handouts to the Judiciary, and give them what is due, which they can manage themselves, at least from the Federal allocations. They also say a share of internally generated revenue can also be given to the Judiciary, as and when it accrues”.

Mr Kazeem confirmed the fact that the Judiciary in most States are grossly underfunded, and it is the only arm that lacks the ability to speak for itself even though there is accumulated pain and anger therein. He said that despite the disconcerting shutdown, people would be surprised at how much sympathy the JUSUN Strike has within the rank and file of judicial officers and Judiciary workers. The light at the end of the tunnel, he said, was that while a lot of progress appeared to have been made in negotiations, but recent pronouncements from both sides of the dispute showed that there is still deadlock, and the Governors appear to be digging their heels.

Mr Kazeem stated that this haemorrhaging cannot go on open-ended, as it had caused a massive erosion of the rule of law, and a huge fracture in the system of administration of justice. “As a child of the Judiciary who has served in the Executive and who proudly remains a Lawyer, I feel the pains and fears of all stakeholders on this impasse.

It is time for the President of the Senate, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, the Nigerian Governors Forum, key stakeholders of the Bar and Bench, the Unions and the Minister of Labour, to lock themselves in a room and find a final solution within a maximum of 48 hours.

From what I have read, fairly workable solutions are already on the table, but they need quick fine tuning and concessions on both sides.

The time to act is now!”, he concluded.

The Sir Alfred Eghobamien Leadership Series The maiden edition of the Sir Alfred Eghobamien leadership VHULHV RUJDQLVHG E\ WKH ODZ ÀUP of Eghobamien and Eghobamien in association with Perchstone and Graeys, was held on June 4, 2021 to commemorate the life and times of Sir Alfred Eghobamien, SAN, Life Bencher. As part of the event, the discussants included Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah, Mr. Osaro Eghobamien, SAN, and Mr. Adekanmi, while Former President, Dr Goodluck Ebele Jonathan GCFR chaired the occasion.

They interrogated the concept of leadership and its overall impact on society. The objective of the discourse was to showcase some of the compelling attributes of Sir

Late Sir Alfred Eghobamien, SAN and his son Osaro Eghobamien, SAN

Alfred as a family leader, and how same could be replicated in other leadership positions.

In particular, Sir Alfred was

reputed to be a renowned disciplinarian, a stickler for time, extremely focused, and displayed exceptional organisational skills.

The second session focused on a dominant area of Sir Alfred’s practice. Disputes relating to inheritance, under Benin native law and custom. The discussants including Justice Joseph Otabor Olubor and Mr. Femi Awoyemi, discussed the impact of such disputes on the GDP of Edo State. The discussion focused on the impact of the informal prescription “This House is Not for Sale” and the socio-economic fabric of the State. The organisers traced the principle of primogeniture, and how the concept may have

been altered giving rise to the numerous disputes that we are now witnessing.

Another sub-theme was, “Nigerian Leadership Vacuum: Too Many Activists, Very Few Reformers”. It was the consensus that, there is a need to establish institutions that will assist in developing leadership in all spheres of human endeavour, beginning with the family.

The children of Sir Alfred Eghobamien, SAN, committed to translating the event to an annual event, as well as to hold in every quarter, discussions relating to establishing true leaders in the South-South region.

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Southern Governors’ Asaba Accord to Rescue Nigeria’s Sinking Ship (Part 2) Introduction Last week, we started our discourse on this vexed issue. We saw how the Governors had met to rescue the sinking ship of State, from hitting the very bottom of disintegration. They desired that it is better to stay together as one big country, than to break into smithereens. But, on one condition: social justice and equity. Will Buhari break this Accord Concordial?

Will he save the country? Today, we shall further x-ray what the law says about individual rights as against majority rights; and what the State Governors must do. These and many more, will be discussed today.

The Law Individual Rights v Majority Rights (Continues) Section 41(1) of the 1999 Constitution (Article 12(1) of the African Charter on Human and People’s Rights; Article 13 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights; Article 45 of the European Charter of Fundamental Rights), provide for freedom of movement of all persons within such geographical zones.

However, notwithstanding the beauty of the above dicta, Section 41 and the rights guaranteed thereunder, are not absolute at all. Section 45 is pretty straightforward as regard derogation from Section 41. It provides: “(1) Nothing in sections 37, 38, 39, 40 and 41 of this Constitution shall invalidate any law that is reasonably justifiable in a democratic society: (a) in the interest of defence, public safety, public order, public morality or public health; or (b) for the purpose of protecting the rights and freedom of other persons”.

Thus, although the right to movement in Section 41 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as altered), appears on the surface to have been violated by the anti-grazing laws and the Southern Governors’ stance, Section 45 of the Constitution allows any law to override it, if such a law is reasonably justifiable in a democratic society in the interest of defence, public safety, public order, public morality or public health. Considering the incessant cases of Boko Haram killings, maiming, stealing, kidnappings, rape, armed banditry and robbery foisted on the Southern part of the country, Southern leaders have rightly taken it upon themselves to put into place, laws and measures that will protect their citizens. To this end, it is safe to assert that individual rights’ to movement have not in any way been violated by the anti-grazing laws, because the laws were enacted in the interest of public safety, public order, public defence and public morality. The laws and declaration are also to protect the peace, privacy and homes of Southerners, as highlighted in Section 37 of the 1999 Constitution. They are also for the “purpose of protecting the rights and freedom of other persons”.

Indeed, the same intermediate court in the case of KALU v FRN & ORS (2012) LPELR-9287(CA), made it clear that the rights to personal liberty and freedom of movement are not absolute and can be derogated from: “The rights to personal liberty and freedom of movement, guaranteed respectively by Sections 35 and 41 of the 1999 Constitution, are not absolute…Section 41(2) (a) of the Constitution says that the right to freedom of movement may be deprived under a law that is reasonably justifiable in a democratic society that imposes restrictions on the "movement of any person who has committed or is reasonably suspected to have committed a criminal offence in order to prevent him from leaving Nigeria”. An application for enforcement of a party's fundamental right presupposes the right has been, is being or is likely to be violated, otherwise than in accordance with the procedure permitted by law. That argument will be defeated when it is apparent that the right has been deprived of, in accordance with the procedure permitted by law” - per EJEMBI EKO, JCA (as he then was) (Pg 44 – 45, Paras G - E).

The above position of the law is further strengthened by the combined effect of the provisions of Sections 4(7), 5(2), 11(2), 14(2) and 176(2) of the 1999 Constitution. Section 4(7) states that the House of Assembly of a State shall have powers to make laws for the peace, order and good government of the State.

Section 5(2) provides that the executive powers of a State shall be vested in the Governor of that State. Section 11(2) gives the Governor of a State powers over the maintenance of supplies and services. Section 14(2)(b) enjoins the Governor to ensure that “the security and welfare of the people shall be the primary purpose of government”. So, where have the Governors of Southern States gone wrong? I cannot see it. Or, can you?

In ASARI DOKUBO v FRN (2007) NGSC 106 (decided June 8, 2007), the Apex Court of Nigeria held that national security overrides personal individual rights, where it is discovered that the individual’s right poses threats to national security. Substitute for this, States’ and groups’ rights

The Southern Governors at Asaba

supersede the individual rights of few rampaging, fully armed, AK-47-clutching and wandering Fulani herdsmen who are not merely grazing their cattle but actually on a predetermined mission of conquest, expansionism and neo-colonialism of other ethnic nationalities. Such must be fully resisted within all legal boundaries, as the Southern Governors are now doing.

What the State Governors Must Do The 17 Southern Governors can sue the Federal Government, invoking the original jurisdiction of the Supreme Court under Section 232 of the 1999 Constitution. They should ask for a determination of their right to preserve their States from insecurity.

However, as held by the Supreme Court in AG OGUN STATE v AG FEDERATION (1982) LPELR-11(SC), the making of law for the maintenance of law and order and securing of public safety and public order, is the responsibility of both the National Assembly and the State Houses of Assembly.

Consequently, for the ban by the Governors to have legal effect and be clothed with legality and constitutionality, the bill must first pass through the House of Assembly of each of the Southern States to become a law. The Governors should therefore, not be burdened by the opinions of other Northern States Governors, as to do so will be limiting the Executive powers of the Governors as regard the States which they govern.

By banning open grazing, the Governors are merely putting a stop to one of the greatest known sources of wars and terrorist convergence in their respective States. In my humble opinion, the Governors’ call is part of their responsibility to the people of their States, as the main mandate of each and every Governor is to protect the lives and property of the people of the States they govern. The openness of the Governors to the idea of yet another National dialogue to curb the insecurity (which I however

“.....THE ENTIRE NIGERIAN GOVERNORS’ FORUM OF THE 36 STATE GOVERNORS .....

UNANIMOUSLY AGREED TO END NOMADIC AND PASTORAL CATTLE WANDERING, “TO ADDRESS THE RISING INSECURITY IN THE COUNTRY AND THE ACTIVITIES OF HERDSMEN.....”

consider unnecessary, in view of the unused recommendations of the 2014 National Conference) can be seen as a honest bi-partisan call to see to the end of insecurity menace in Nigeria.

Should Southern Governors have first Consulted the Northern Establishment?

It must be emphasised that, the decision of the Southern Governors does not in actuality impede the rights of cow rearers to own cattle. It merely limits their ability to openly graze on lands that are not theirs in the first place, and inflict misery on the indigenous owners. The ban will also ignite more anti-grazing laws, in other States in Nigeria.

Those Northern elites arguing that consultation ought to have been first made by Southern Governors before making such resolutions, have not advanced any plausible argument anchored on the Constitution. In fact, they ought to applaud the Southern Nigerian Governors for wilfully choosing to dialogue with their Northern counterparts, and avoiding an impending doom.

The few Northern elites have not explained to Nigerians, why they never consulted their Southern counterparts before passing and enforcing Sharia Law in their States; or passing the various Hisbah laws. Did some of these Governors not cut off citizens’ hands for various offences, to the angst and condemnation of international communities? Did they not order for some others to be stoned? Recall the unfortunate cases of Buba Jangebe (2000), Auwalu Abubakar (23), Lawalli Musa (22), Abubakar Aliyu (15), Attahiru Umaru, Sani Rodi, Sarimu Baranda, Safiya Hussein, Amina Lawal and many others for merely either stealing a cow, bull, N32,000 or committing adultery. Did the Northern Governors consult their Southern counterparts?

They did not explain why Southern Governors who are the Chief Security Officers of their States, should first obtain their permission (like a pupil from a Headmaster) before dealing with security matters in their various States. It only shows their mindset of a relationship of masters and servants; conquerors and vassals; slave owners and slaves.

They failed to tell Nigerians that all the Northern Governors had actually pro-actively taken a unanimous position to ban open grazing, at its virtual meeting held on February 9, 2021, presided over by their Chairman, Simon Lalong Governor of Plateau State. They had unanimously agreed that the “current system of herding conducted mainly through open grazing, is no longer sustainable in view of growing urbanisation and population of the country”. While urging all the Governors to meet over this matter, they agreed on other methods, such as ranching. These critics of the Southern Governors hid the fact that in response to the Northern Governors’ call, the entire Nigerian Governors’ Forum of the 36 State Governors held a virtual meeting on February 11 (two days later) and unanimously agreed to end nomadic and pastoral cattle wandering, “to address the rising insecurity in the country and the activities of herdsmen…and the need for the country to transition into modern systems of animal husbandry that will replace open, night and underage grazing in the country”. They also encouraged ranching as alternative. The Northern elites carefully screened away the fact that Governor Abdullahi Ganduje, the Kano State Governor, had openly supported adopting anti-grazing measures.

Ganduje had argued in February, 2021, during his meeting with President Buhari and other APC Governors, that such a ban would not only solve incessant clashes between farmers and herders, but also prevent cattle rustling. In spite of attempts by some Northern groups to cow him, Ganduje stuck to his guns.

(To be continued).

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK “Good governance, safety, a chance to grow economically and professionally - those are important things.” (Dana Perino)

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ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

R – L: General Manager, Marketing and Corporate Communications, Coscharis Group, Mr. Abiona Babarinde; President/Chairman of Council, National Institute of Marketing of Nigeria (NIMN), Mr. Idorenyen Enang; immediate past President of the institute, Mr. Anthony Agenmonmen, and Manager, Customer Loyalty Management, MTN, Mrs Ify Kagho, at the 10th AGM of the institute held in Lagos…recently

FG: AfCTA to Boost Africa’s Exports by $560bn Stories by Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja When fully operational, the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) agreement will boost exports in the continent by at least $560 billion, the federal government has said.

Senior Special Assistant to the Nigerian President on the Public Sector and Secretary, National Action Committee on (AfCFTANG), Mr Francis Anatogu, stated this during the first African Local Content Roundtable Conference in Yenagoa, Bayelsa state.

According to him, benefits of the AfCTA include lifting 30 million Africans out of extreme poverty; boosting income of nearly 68 million others who live on less than $5.60 a day;

ECONOMY boosting Africa’s income by $450 billion by 2035, a gain of seven per cent and adding $76 billion to the income to the rest of the world.

“In addition , the AfCTA will see the increase in Africa’s exports by $560 billion, mostly in manufacturing, spur the larger wage gain for women to 10.5 per cent as opposed to men’s 9.9 per cent as well as boost wages for both skilled and unskilled workers,” the presidential aide said. On imports of parts used in the oil industry, he noted that Nigeria brought in $110 million worth of tubes, pipes and hollow profiles in 2020, iron and steel tubes amounting to $160 million, refined petroleum of $7.71 billion,

which accounted for 27.8 per cent of all total refined products imported in 2020, quoting the International Trade Centre (ITC).

In addition, Anatogu stated that gas valued at $110 million was brought in, representing 3.02 per cent of Africa’s total while petroleum jelly, paraffin wax among others constituted $800 million or 59.90 of the entire Africa’s import for the year.

He stated that there’s a preferential access to Africa’s goods’ market worth $504.17 billion, services valued at $162 billion, under the AfCTA, market expansion opportunities and productions growth through competition.

Anatogu emphasised that local content development remains a key component of the rules of

origin of the AfCTA which simply states that for any products to be considered African or to take advantage of the African continental free trade area agreement it must meet a minimum of local content. Otherwise, the presidential aide, noted that it would not get the benefit of duty waiver and other gains that come with the AfCTA. “It is an exciting time in Africa because everything is coming together and it’s also very exciting because we have a template. This is about creating a single market for made in Africa goods and services and it will also provide the structure for making that trade happen, provide mechanism for resolving disputes and managing injurious trade practices,” he stressed.

‘$15bn Needed to Upgrade Oil Refineries in Africa’ Oil refineries in Africa will require approximately $15.7 billion to upgrade the existing 36 facilities to produce petroleum products that will conform with the planned level of sulphur content, the African Refiners and Distributors Association (ARDA) has said.

The organisation noted that the amount is what a refinery may needs to be upgraded from the Engineering, Procurement and Constructions (EPC) stage, with its AFRI-6 initiative, aimed at reducing sulphur content in fuels to 10 parts per million (ppm) in the coming years.

Speaking at a workshop organised by ARDA on “Upgrading African Refineries to Produce Cleaner Fuels,” Executive Secretary of the organisation, Mr. Anibor Kragha revealed that North Africa with 17 refineries would require capital expenditure of $5.955 billion for refineries upgrade.

ENERGY According to him, West and Central Africa with 12 refineries would need $6.285 billion, while East and Southern Africa with seven refineries would need $3.415 billion.

He noted that without urgent steps on adopting uniform fuel specifications across the continent, health and environmental challenges could worsen existing problems on the continent even as the continent’s population projection is expected to grow exponentially.

While advocating cleaner, harmonised, Pan-African fuels specifications , he stressed that there has been uneven progress in tightening fuel specifications across the continent.

Disclosing that African Union (AU) and ARDA were collaborating on adoption of AFRI fuels

roadmap, Kragha listed new process units required to improve key fuel specifications to include; Naptha Hydrotreater (NHdT), Diesel Hydro-desulphurisation (DHDS), Benzene Extraction and Sulphur and Hydrogen Plants.

He stated that major urban population growth would result in increased pollution, noting that orderly, sustainable transition to cleaner fuels remained imperative to address potential public health issues “Targeted financing is needed for projects to upgrade refineries and infrastructure to produce and transport cleaner fuels,” he said.

An investment expert at the African Finance Corporation (AFC), Ufuoma Adasen, while commenting, noted that while access to long-term financing at competitive rates remained a challenge, phased project implementation could represent a way forward.

Adasen said since some refineries do not operate on full cost-reflective basis, a development which contributes to financial losses, strained cash flows, and weak balance sheets, there was need for stakeholders to adopt a fully commercially viable framework.

Adasen added that there was need to prioritise projects that would improve production of cleaner fuels and increased advocacy by key stakeholders, in the face of shrinking investment into the oil and gas sector, Also speaking, a Business Development Expert at Vitol Group, Richard Egan, said the continent’s sub-economic utilisation and relatively low complexity calls for significant investment in refining.

He added however that the world has reached a tipping point whereby in the financing of green projects may be more than that for fossil fuels going forward.

Nofewerthan500,000womenacrossthe36statesandtheFederal CapitalTerritory (FCT) are expected to benefit from an empowerment program powered by a United Kingdom organisation, Jose Foundation, in conjunction with financial technology firm, Agency Alliance Limited.

The President of the foundation, Dr. Martins Abhulimhen, made the disclosure in a statement made available to THISDAY in Ibadan, Oyo State. He said the empowerment program was to promote financial inclusion among women in Nigeria, stating that the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted negatively on the activities of women across all sectors of the economy leading to the need to deplore technology in addressing some of the challenges. According to him, “It is a known fact that in the face of lockdowns, closed branches and social distancing, consumers are turning to digital finance. Women’s preparedness for financial inclusion has just received a boost with the entrance of Jose foundation into fintech powered by Agency Alliance Ltd. in Nigeria “With the introduction of a new fintech innovative product called BANK - IN - BOX Initiative. The product would help drive financial inclusion among women in Africa.”

Abhulimhen,addedthatsomeofthefeaturesoftheprograminclude provision of point of sales terminals, access to working capital (micro credit initiatives), capacity building, competitive commissions and extra income for the family. He stated further that women would also have access to working capital, earn attractive commission and enjoy extra income, noting that some of the advantages of the technology include increasing women participation in the economy while income from economic activities will enhance a shift in gender norms.

Firm Launches Climate Change Initiative

Cartoon Network has announced a new multi-territory and multilanguage climate change awareness initiative across Europe, the Middle East and Africa.

Astatementbythegroupsaidthecartoonnetworkclimatechampion sets out to inspire and invite kids to take on small challenges, “that can make a world of difference to the health of our planet.”

“At the heart of the campaign is the website which offers kids across Africa a safe place to learn about climate change, and be inspired by other young changemakers from around the world taking positive action to tackle the issue,” the statement said It further explained that the site gives kids the chance to make a difference themselves through daily challenges, designed to inspire and motivate them to make changes at home, at school, and in their local communities. It noted that the challenges are categorised by differentthemes,addingthatsomeofthemarerecognisingkeyclimate awareness moments such as World Environment Day on the 5th of June and World Oceans Day on the 8th of June.

The statement remarked that by completing the challenges, the climate champions earn digital rewards for a virtual garden that they can nurture and grow.

“In total, there are more than 100 small actions and challenges that kids can take part in, as well as fun quizzes, games and videos.They can keep track of their progress through a global activity map, updated live for every completed action. The map shows how the Climate Champions are making a difference in Africa and across the world, creating a community of young people joining forces for the climate.

China Blocks Cryptocurrency Ac[1]counts

A slew of crypto-related accounts in China’s Twitter-like Weibo platform have been blocked as Beijing stepped up a crackdown on bitcoin trading and mining. More actions are expected, including linking illegalcryptoactivitiesinChinamoredirectlywiththecountry’scriminal law, according to analysts and a financial regulator.

Last month, China’s State Council, or cabinet, vowed to crack down on bitcoin mining and trading, escalating a campaign against cryptocurrencies days after three industry bodies banned crypto-related financial and payment services, according to Reuters.

Over the weekend, access to several of widely followed cryptorelated Weibo accounts was denied, with a message saying each account “violates laws and rules.”

“The CBN agreed to increase the amount allocated to banks for travellers, SMEs, among others. The banks also agreed to operate something akin to forex imprest account such that the coffers of banks will be replenished so long as they retire the initial amounts” Ag. Director, Corporate Communications, CBN, Mr. Osita Nwanisobi

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Bright Side of Petrol Price Deregulation Forseveraldecades,successivegovernmentsinNigeriahaveattempted,albeitunsuccessfullytoliberalisethedownstream sector of the country’s oil industry, especially as it relates to the pump price of fuel. In this report, Emmanuel Addeh writes that though still a sensitive topic, there could be a bright side to the phenomenon

E

very attempt at freeing the pump price of petrol in the country has always been met with stiff resistance from Nigerians.

While those who perpetually oppose the practice have made frantic efforts to convince others of the“evils”of deregulation, its proponents have also continued to push their own side of the argument.

Essentially, deregulation as it concerns the downstream sector, simply relates to the opening up of that part of the industry for healthy competition, where prices, as it were, reflect market realities.

For its advocates, while it is not a ceiling price system where either over-recovery or under-recovery are managed, it does not also connote unfettered practices by marketers, where there are no rules and no regulatory oversight by government authorities.

To put the enormity of the policy in proper context, from 2006 to 2015, the federal said that it spent over N8.9 trillion on subsidy payment alone, funds that would have been ploughed into more progressive ventures like rail lines, which the government is now borrowing to revive.

On March 19, last year, when crude oil prices were at their lowest, the Minister of State, Petroleum Resources, Chief Timpre Sylva, announced that the federal government was withdrawing from fixing the pump price of fuel.

However, the practice was short-lived. When crude oil prices began to rise in the international market, Nigerians who had enjoyed the development when petrol pump price was just above N120 began to feel the pinch, thereby arousing a backlash.

In a Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) session, which followed the complaints by Nigerians, the Petroleum Products Pricing Regulatory Agency (PPPRA) , in trying to address the reservations of those who expressed dissenting opinion, argued that the low crude oil prices at the time, presented the opportunity to address the lingering challenges associated with the subsidy regime and free up vital funds required to develop in other key sectors of the economy.

Added to that, it noted that 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 then become active.

Indeed, many countries of the world, both developed and developing, that have come to embrace the advantages of deregulation, removed all artificial restrictions decades ago. However, Nigeria has had to roll back the policy each time there has been a backlash.

In proffering an answer, the PPPRA explained that in a deregulated market, prices should respond to market forces , where , essentially, prices will be lower when there is a surplus in supply and higher when supply is limited, noting that more so, competition among the players in the deregulated market will ensure that prices remain reasonable.

In addressing the question of whether the policy will not make the masses poorer by making transportation, food and other goods and services more expensive, the agency argued that on the contrary, regulation of the downstream sector is one of the reasons for the stagnation and impoverishment of the populace.

It stressed that apart from Lagos, Abuja and Port Harcourt, people rarely buy petroleum products at official prices, insisting that in some rural areas, most times the products are adulterated and bad for engines.

“Deregulation will change all that and even reduce the cost of transportation and food in the long run,” it maintained.

Removal of subsidies will allow additional investment in local refining, engender more competitive pricing among operators, forcing down prices and ensuring that companies place a tight rein on production cost such that wastes that could have been passed on to consumers in form of high prices are eliminated.

However, there’s also the contention that whatever goes up in Nigeria, never comes down.

To this, the response of the authorities has always been that use of LPG/CNG as Autogas in Nigeria, which the government is currently pushing, will help to cushion the effect in case of situation of high oil price and offer the consumer an option to choose from. Although, it’s taking off rather slowly, several companies have been embarked to drive the development, especially in the areas of CNG, LPG and natural gas retailing for the domestic market.

LPG as alternative to petrol?

With a proven natural gas reserves of over 203 trillion cubic feet (tcf) and 600 tcf potential reserves, natural gas, a cheaper and cleaner fuel than petrol A mixture of propane (C3H8), propylene (C3H6), butane (C4H10) and butylene (C4H8), LPG shares CNG’s eco-friendly feature. The economics of it appears even more enticing. While LPG fuelling stations are less expensive as it is said that 15 Autogas refueling stations can be installed for the price of one CNG station, LPG vehicles are also said to have a get better range.

In addition, and while the CO2 savings offered

by LPG are slightly lower than the 25 per cent offered by CNG, it is considerably cheaper to convert a vehicle to LPG, as a car owner will fuel vehicles half as many times as usual or only needing to service them twice a year because of less internal wear and tear.

Consequently, embracing LPG is necessary because Nigeria will benefit greatly from having more fuel options, especially ones that take advantage of its extensive gas reserves and create competition in the petroleum sector.

But in all, both CNG and LPG systems are cheaper and eco-friendlier in cars than other forms of fuel, whether diesel or petrol, combust cleaner, reducing particulates and nitrogen oxides emissions.

Between subsidy and financial leakages There’s the argument that when the federal government pays subsidy, it doesn’t only impact the rich that have a retinue of cars or use petrol for other reasons, it also encourages smuggling beyond the borders of Nigeria to surrounding neighbouring countries. Indeed, the argument is that keeping the price of petrol artificially low through fuel subsidy discourages additional investment in the oil sector. For instance, while many licences have been offered to a number of businessmen, only a few have dared to begin work since the possibility of recouping their investment under an artificially low price structure, remains very low.

Experts believe that removing subsidy will invigorating the petroleum sector; making it more attractive for private investment to succeed, free up funds for more socially beneficial investments that will improve the quality of life of the masses and put the country back on track to meet its development goals.

Who gains from subsidies?

It is not out of place to contend that those who

consume the most fuel or benefit disproportionately from subsidy are the rich, rather than the masses.

In addition, oil smugglers also benefit significantly from the fuel subsidy by enriching themselves through smuggling of products to neighbouring countries to the detriment of the Nigerian economy.

The position of the government has always been that if subsidy is removed, Nigerians in the mid and long term, will see additional private investments in the entire downstream value chain, thereby leading to a more vibrant downstream sector and economy.

In voicing its support for the liberalisation of the sector the PPPRA says that it leads to, “improved efficiency, uninterrupted product availability and proper functioning of the entire value chain.”

In addition, it noted that downstream sector where refining, supply, and distribution of petroleum products are self- sustaining and self-financing is only possible in a liberalised market.

Leaving Nigerians at marketers’ mercy?

For those who oppose deregulation, one of the arguments that freeing the sector will lead to racketeering, a case in which oil marketers will be given the leeway to do whatever they like. But the PPPRA thinks differently.

“To ensure the sustainability of the policy, the PPPRA would continue to serve as watchdog to the entire downstream sector in line with its mandate and also collaborate with relevant agencies to ensure strict compliance to extant regulations to make the country’s downstream sector become the hub of activities in West Africa.

“The PPPRA , being the regulatory agency for the sector will continue to carry out all its mandates as enshrined in the establishment Act of the Agency, which includes: to determine the pricing policy of petroleum products; regulate the supply and distribution of petroleum products; create an information databank and moderate volatility in petroleum products prices, while ensuring reasonable returns to operators,” it notes.

In addition, its functions will remain to establish parameters and codes of conduct for all operators in the downstream petroleum sector; maintain constant surveillance over all key indices relevant to pricing policy and periodically approve benchmark prices for all petroleum products and prevent collusion and restrictive trade practices harmful in the sector.

Furthermore, government argues that it will channel the money realised from the deregulation of the downstream sector into critical infrastructure like specialised hospitals and addressing issue of power generation and transmission.

Monies freed from subsidy payment can also be channelled to construction and rehabilitation of schools and colleges as well as revamping the agricultural sector to ensure food sufficiency in the country.

NNPC‘s unsustainable intervention Before the resumption of what the national

oil company prefers to call under-recovery, there was the hope that the NNPC was perhaps on its way to recovery, even as its Group Managing Director, Mallam Mele Kyari, was upbeat that after the release of the 2018 and 2019 audited financial statements, the corporation will return to profitability ways.

But with the recent pronouncements from the corporation, its inability to make any remittances to the Federation Account, it is obvious that that projection could be in jeopardy.

In March, Kyari, opened up on the state of affairs, revealing that at the time, government was subsidising petrol with about N120 billion monthly.

He said while the actual cost of importation and handling charges amounted to N234 per litre, while the government had been selling at N162 per litre, therefore leaving the corporation to bear the difference.

He said the NNPC could no longer afford to bear the cost, saying Nigerians would have to pay the actual cost sooner or later, arguing that market forces must be allowed to determine the pump price of petrol in the country.

“Today, NNPC is the sole importer of petrol.

We are importing at market price and we are selling at N162 per litre today. Looking at the current market situation today, the actual price could have been anywhere between N211 and around N234 per litre.

“The meaning of this is that consumers are not paying for the full value of the petrol that we are consuming and therefore, someone is bearing that cost. As we speak today, the difference is being carried on the books of the NNPC and I can confirm to you that the NNPC may no longer be in the position to carry that burden and because we can longer afford to carry it on our books.

“As we speak today, I will not say we are in subsidy regime but we are in a situation where we are trying to exit this under-price sale of petrol until we come to terms with the full value of the product in the market.

“Petrol sells across our borders anywhere around N300 per litre and in some places up to N500 to N550 per litre. Our current consumption is evacuation from the depots about 60 million litres per day; we are selling at N162 to the litre, and the current market price is around N234, actual market price today.

“So, the difference between the two, multiplied by 60 million x 30 will give you per month. I don’t have the numbers now. This is a simple arithmetic that we can do but if you want exact from our books, I do not have it at this moment but it is somewhere between N100 billion and N120 billion per month. I don’t have the exact number,” he said.

With the figures reeled out by the national oil company, it is obvious that something has to give at the end of the day and it’s obvious that the national purse has continued to suffer the drainage. Will anything change soon?

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Zakari: FG Will Bridge Nigeria’s Six Million Metering Gap Ahmad Rufa’i Zakari is the Special Adviser to the President on Power and Infrastructure. Before his appointment he built an impressive career at General Electric where he acquired extensive experience, expertise, and knowledge of the electricity as well as the oil and gas sector. From 2012 to 2014 he held the position of the Executive Director &Audit Manager of Sub SaharanAfrica & the Middle East division of GE Corporate. In 2019 he was appointed as the SpecialAdviser to the President on Infrastructure.

Ahmad also serves as the Secretary to the Presidential Power Reform Coordination Working Group. In this interview with ARISE NEWS Channel, Zakari spoke on sundry issues besetting the country’s power sector, including the administration’s resolve to close the current six million metering gap before the end of its tenure. Emmanuel Addeh presents the excerpts. solar home systems, providing financing for development, rolling out minigrids and that was launched in Jigawa recently. We are working to ensure that the value chain is integrated and that energy access is improved. But we think we have a clear line of sight of at least 10,000 mw, during the life of this administration in terms of delivered power to individual end users.

What’s the mechanism in place to sanction Discos that default in the service-based tariff regime?

Service -based tariff as an approach to the power sector really focuses on customers paying for what they get, while the Distribution Companies (Discos) are incentivised to improve service before they are able to achieve higher tariff.

There was always a clamour for cost-reflective tariff, but the view of the administration from a policy perspective and a regulator was that we needed to change the conversation to say that areas that get 20+ hours etc will pay higher rate. But to give effectiveness to that approach, there’s need for penalties.

So, what the regulator has always said is that as we execute the service-based tariff, there will be periodic reviews.

Areas that receive below their band and they receive less than that, there will be a refund for customers and de-banding. For areas that are receiving higher service, Discos can apply to upgrade them. But there’s never been a conversation in Nigeria that has been able to link payment to execution of service which is what the service-based tariff is effectively doing.

Can you throw more light on the unbundling of TCN? There are many different discussions ongoing.

If you look at the requirements of the 2005 Electric Power Sector Reform Act (EPSRA) that governs the power sector currently, it does provide for the unbundling of TCN into an independent system operator that will manage the movement of power, the scheduling of power or almost an administrative role for the grid and secondly transmission service provider that will work on the infrastructure.

So the provision is that at the point where the market has reached a level of maturity, the minister of power alongside the council on privatisation can engage with Mr. President and seek approval to proceed with the unbundling.

Unbundling into these two constituent parts will be a precursor to any potential privatisation or concession of the entity. So the conversation is ongoing and the TCN is one of the entities that is on the privatisation schedule of the Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE). So, they must work together. We are working on step 1 which is to lay the framework for unbundling and step 2 is to find how best to privatise or concession or commercialise the TCN for better and improved service.

Tell us about the full gamut of the Siemens deal?

I’ll continue to say this whenever I have the opportunity to speak. I think we should all be impatient about the power sector because without a growing power sector, we will continue to lose economic opportunities. But at the same time, what we must prevent is to allow that frustration to lead us to policy somersaults that will potentially drag the industry back. In relation to the Siemens transaction, I will talk more broadly about infrastructure investment.

Where we are coming from is that we have been subsidising consumption. We had a situation where we allowed Discos to operate and whatever revenues we received from them, we will then top off from the government and push to the generating company which led us to spending about N1.7 trillion without corresponding results or improvements. That transition from subsidy to infrastructure is what this administration with its current policies led by the Minister of Power, Sale Mamman, is executing. This is not rocket science because many countries have grown their power sectors but you need to actually put the hard

Zakari infrastructure on the ground. With the suite of investment and infrastructure funding, we are targeting to use between $3 to $5 billion, over the next 24 months, putting it into the infrastructure development of the sector. Before the year President Buhari came in, the whole budget was about 30 million for the TCN and in an environment where you are growing your generation capacity, you obviously have a mismatch.

But we now have funding from the World Bank through the Transmission Expansion Programme (TREP) of about $1.6 billion and that has been reported and then we have signed this Distribution Expansion Programme and then the CBN has put out emergency fund on the distribution side as well as transmission, distribution interfaces to the tune of about $500 million.

We have the Siemens presidential power initiative and the engineering agreement has been signed and that will bring in about $2billion over time. So, we are taking an approach of any funding that is available in the sector and we look at the improvement plan of the Discos that the regulatory agency holds them accountable for and they receive funds, they will align their activities. I agree we should all be impatient, but where the funds have come in like the mass metering programme, citizens are reporting that they have received their free meters thus reducing suspicion in the sector and in turn increase our revenue in the sustainability of the ecosystem through improvement and liquidity.

Where are we with the national mass metering programme?

The national mass metering programme replaced the MAP which was requiring some private investors to come in and sell meters and recoup their money over time. There were challenges in the structure and there were options for citizens to pay. President Buhari who keeps tabs on what is going on, understands very clearly that arbitrary

billing is one of the main challenges in the sector, so he has mandated that we transition into the national mass metering programme and that is fully funded. The estimated 6 million metering gap in the country will be eliminated by the end of the life of this administration. We are in phase 0 which the Central Bank has provided funding for. Thus far, that phase 0 is about a million meters, phase 1 will be 4 million meters. We have mopped up all the available meters. About 600,000 have been delivered to the Discos and about 400,000 plus have already been installed. We track the geo-location and the name of every citizen that has been metered and we are confident that before the life of this administration, we will eliminate the metering gap and put the arbitrary billing as well as the energy theft issues to a significant reduction. In terms of unbundling, the act allows at the maturing stage, the separation of the management of the grid, with a new independent system operator from the transmission service provider who builds the infrastructure. The act requires for you to unbundle first before privatisation or commercialisation or whichever approach we take. So, we are doing both. Currently we are determining how best to unbundle into the two parts. The BPE and NCP are looking at that.

Will commercialisation be into sub-regions, as a whole or what? Those are some of the items we are evaluating.

Are we getting to that magical number of generating 100mw before the end of the administration?

For a 100,000 MW, we do have a trajectory, but we will definitely not be there in 18-24 months.

But we have continued to have an imbalance between generation and in some estimates, we have the line of sight to about 20,000mw. Where the work is occurring is on transmission and distribution to be able to get those megawatts that we can generate into the homes of citizens.

The administration is also looking at this power approach, not only in megawatts but on its impact on people. We have the approach to the 25 million

What’s happening with the Mambilla power project?

This administration has shown that it can handle complex infrastructure projects and we have come up with innovative financing mechanism to execute that. We have reached advanced stage with the second Niger Bridge, the Abuja-Kano road, Lagos-Ibadan express is active , rail , the AKK project etc. This administration is pushing with Infraco, the CBN-led body with NSIA and AFC to the tune of N1 trillion.

As you know, the Request for Proposal (RFP) is out for the fund managers and that is an infrastructure investment vehicle. In terms of the infrastructure for the future, we need to enhance our roads, integrate transportation with rail, and work on our digital infrastructure which is one of the fastest growing in the economy. We are confident that by the end of this administration, Mr. President will be known as Mr. Infrastructure and we hope that this will create jobs. In terms of Mambilla, it is not uncommon to see infrastructure projects having long gestation period. The pre-work is ongoing. There are some issues that are being clarified between the ministry of power and justice. We will set it on a good trajectory by the end of the life of this administration, but like I said, all complex infrastructure have gestation period. And we will be able to complete Zungeru by the end of the year and we don’t hear so much media about it.

It’s 700mw of hydroelectric power. Mambilla is important, but we have others.

The national grid seems to be perpetually collapsing. What are the plans for off-grid options and also renewables?

Even on the national grid, I think the metrics are not out there. In 2016, we had 28 adverse grid events where they had grid collapses, last year it was four and thus far this year, we have had two. It’s not an excuse, but I think that the investment in the system is what has led to that reduction and we desperately need to complete the procurement of the SCADA digital system that helps with automated management of the grid. But there is funding for that and procurement process is ongoing, but we need to accelerate it. Even at the TCN, anytime it happens, it is like it is the end of the world and we should all complain, but the metrics have shown a continuing reduction on those adverse grid events.

On renewables, the government plans to have on the policy side, to have 30 per cent of power to be bio-renewables by 2030. We do on-grid like Mambilla, Zungeru, but we are investing heavily in the areas that impact our rural dwellers.

There’s a N140 billion under the Solar naija programme that is being accessed by developers. We expect to have 5 million connections and we have already seen that we are on that trajectory. We are going to continue to push for renewables.

Before now renewables were not used in rural areas at all. In some areas in Turankawa, Rokota, Jangefe, Mokoloki in jigawa, Niger and sokoto, they have more light than urban areas because they have a hybrid of solar, battery and mini-grids which is being driven by the Rural Electricity Agency (REA).

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Unlocking Growth through MSMEs’Intervention Donatus Nwaogu

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icro, small and medium scale enterprises (MSMEs) are globally regarded as the backbone of any economy.

MSMEs contribute to improved living standards. They bring about substantial local capital formation and help in achieving high level of productivity and capability.

They have also been identified as a vehicle for employment generation and providing opportunities for entrepreneurial sourcing, training, development and empowerment. Developing nations such as Nigeria characterised as low income earners by the World Bank, value SMEs for several reasons.

According to the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO), SMEs have a significant role to play in economic development. They form the backbone of the private sector; they make up over 90 per cent of enterprises in the world and account for 50 to 60 per cent of employment. They also play an important role in generating employment and poverty alleviation.

That is why the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has been resolute in its determination to support operators in the real sector of the economy. It recently revealed that 585,593 beneficiaries have so far received N462.722 billion as at May 28, 2021, from its various intervention schemes to support MSMEs and individuals.

A breakdown of this showed that from January 2021 to date, N157.517 billion have been disbursed for 29 real sector projects under the Real Sector Support Facility- Differentiated Cash Reserve Requirement (RSSF-DCRR). In the same vein, the sum of N85.190 billion have been disbursed under Micro Small and Medium Enterprises Development Fund (MSMEDF) to 746 beneficiaries as at May 28, 2021.

The MSMEDF was established in recognition of the significant contributions of the MSME sub-sector to the economy and the existing huge financing gap. Ten per cent of the Fund has been devoted to developmental objectives such a grants, capacity building and administrative costs while 90 per cent commercial component had been released to Participating Financial Institutions(PFIs) at two per cent for on-lending to MSMEs at single-digit interest rate. Under this Fund, eligible activities to be financed include agricultural value chain, services, cottage industries, artisans, trade and commerce and any income generating business as may be prescribed by the CBN from time to time.

But the broad objective of the Fund is to channel low interest funds to the MSME sub-sector of the Nigerian economy through PFIs to enhance access by MSMEs to financial services; increase productivity and output of micro-enterprises; increase employment and create wealth; and engender inclusive growth Similarly, from January 2021 to date, N26.008 billion has been disbursed for 10 projects under the COVID-19 manufacturing intervention schemes, while N255.992 billion have been disbursed for 78 projects under the CMIS from January 2020 till May 28, 2021.

In all, a total of 91 healthcare projects have also been funded to the tune of N97 billion under the Healthcare Sector Intervention Facility (HSIF) as at May 28, 2021, to support healthcare institutions across the country. Likewise, the sum of N111.707 billion have been disbursed by the CBN under Agri-Business/Small and Medium Enterprise Investment Scheme (AGSMEIS) to 29,023 beneficiaries as at May 28, 2021.

The AGSMEIS is an initiative to support the federal government’s efforts and policy measures for the promotion of agricultural businesses and MSMEs as vehicles for sustainable economic development and employment generation.

In the same vein, in line with its desire to stimulate output growth, the sum of N3.199 billion have also been disbursed under the Creative Industry Financing Initiative (CIFI) to 341 beneficiaries as at May 28, 2021, while the sum of N253.448 billion have also been disbursed under the targeted credit facility to 548, 345 beneficiaries as at May 28, 2021.

Equally, in line with its drive for youth empowerment, the sum of N3.004 billion have been disbursed under the Nigerian Youth Investment Fund (NYIF) to 7,057 beneficiaries as at May 28, 2021 and the sum of N6 billion have been disbursed under SANEF to 14 beneficiaries as at May 28, 2021.

Furthermore, the sum of N173 million have been disbursed under the Youth Enterprise Development Fund (YEDF) to 67 beneficiaries as at May 28, 2021. YEDP disbursement by geo-political zone showed that for the South-west, 39 beneficiaries got N98 million; North-central, 11 beneficiaries got N29 million and for the South-east, eight beneficiaries received N22 million.

In addition, for the South-south, six beneficiaries received N16 million; the North-west had two beneficiaries which received N4.970 million and the North-east had one beneficiary which got N3 million.

Under the N1 trillion real sector fund, a total of 234 real sector projects valued at N857. 644 billion was approved and disbursed from November 2018 till May 28.

Of the total 234 project, 155 real sector projects valued at N615 billion was financed from January 2020 till May 28, 2021 to: 78 manufacturing projects – N256 billion; 36 agricultural projects – N84. 481 billion; 30 Service projects – N191 billion; and 11 Mining Projects – N83.5 billion.

Similarly, about N700 billion had been disbursed in various agricultural programmes and as of January 2021, the CBN had disbursed N554.61 billion to 2,849,490 farmers to boost food security under its Anchor Borrowers’ Programme alone since 2015.

In order to ensure that more Nigerians benefit from its interventions, the CBN recently expanded the schemes to cater for non-interest financial institutions (NIFIs). The move was also part of efforts to increase access to NIFIs and promote financial inclusion.

These schemes included Non-interest Guidelines

The normal way in economics you would want to really recover from a contracting economy is to stimulate the economy with a lot of easing and by injecting liquidity into the system so as to stimulate consumption, investment, increased government expenditure, increased export earnings and possibly see what you can do to reduce imports

for the Accelerated Development Scheme (AADS); Non-interest Guidelines for Intervention in the Textile Sector; Guidelines for the Operations of the AGSMEIS for NIFIs; Guidelines for MSMEDF, among others.

Owing to the massive interventions across the real sector of the economy, the Governor of the CBN, Mr. Godwin Emefiele, expressed optimism that the economy would continue on the path of positive Gross Domestic Product growth rate.

He attributed the 0.51 per cent growth recorded in the first quarter of 2021 to the central bank’s interventions.

“The economy is confronted by a contracting output where growth is negative. And the normal way in economics you would want to really recover from a contracting economy is to stimulate the economy with a lot of easing and by injecting liquidity into the system so as to stimulate consumption, investment, increased government expenditure, increased export earnings and possibly see what you can do to reduce imports.

“At the last meeting, the MPC encouraged the management to adopt some form of administrative measures to mop up liquidity and control money supply in the system and in the process rein in inflation by reducing the money supply that would help to control inflation,” he added.

But at same time, on the output side, the central bank agreed to use its development finance tools to boost output by ensuring that liquidity and funding is made available at concessionary rates to employment-generating and output-stimulating sectors of the economy.

“So, for us, it is science to expect that GDP recorded growth. So, it is not surprising that we are seeing what we are seeing presently. That is why we decided to hold interest rate and we have decided to continue our administrative measures.

“On the output side, we were encouraged to continue to use our interventions to agriculture, manufacturing and the targeted credit facilities to make sure we are able to stimulate consumption and investments in order to ultimately yield positive result for growth in the economy,” he added.

Indeed, out of the targeted credit facility, almost the entire N300 billion has been disbursed and the MPC recently encouraged the management of CBN to increase it to N400 billion.

This means more money would be made available to households, small businesses for then to go back to business, which would ultimately yield employment and grow our economy.

He also faulted claims by critics that the Bank’s intervention programmes, particularly the ABP, were skewed to favour some sections of the country.

He described the criticism as unfair, especially given all the CBN had done in some states, including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

He said the CBN was working on several fronts to fast-track domestic production in the country.

Emefiele said: “In South-South where I come from, and where I have been personally criticised, in Edo State, we have disbursed over N10 billion. Some of you may have seen some of our programmes in Edo State in 2019 where we asked Edo State to allocate land to companies that are interested in palm plantation as well as in cassava…”

The CBN governor said attaining self-sufficiency in food production would not come cheap, adding that the country could make steady and consistent progress through positive strides in the right direction.

According to him, the right synergy among stakeholders would catalyse the growth process, while the apex bank is always ready to offer an effective partnership to deliver on the critical national mandate of attaining self-sufficiency in food production.

He added: “We believe significant improvements in domestic production of staple food items would help in attaining our price stability goals while reducing our dependence on imported food items.”

He stated that the sustainability of current efforts in agricultural production could only be guaranteed if the youths are attracted to agriculture.

According to him, the youths have the talent, energy, enthusiasm, technological adoption capacity and all the right drive to revolutionise agricultural production in the country.

He said: “We must meet them half-way to ensure that we provide the enabling environment to make agriculture attractive to them.”

He said the CBN was ready to support youths willing to engage in agriculture as the sector offered significant benefits for them.

He said the bank had put in place measures to improve access to credit for youths interested in agriculture under the ABP and the AGSMEIS. He said the implementation of the ABP like any other smallholder financing programme had been challenging due to factors, including the country’s landholding system, prolonged poor productivity per hectare, poor adoption of modern agronomic practices, lack of adequate mechanisation support services, post-harvest losses among others.

He said the CBN had continuously improved on its learning experiences and now could effectively tackle the challenges with proper planning, timely execution of plans and synergy among all stakeholders.

Therefore, considering the significance of MSMEs, there is need for the central bank to be encouraged to continue to support operators in that segment of the economy as well as for the fiscal authorities to roll out measures to support the development finance efforts of the banking sector regulator.

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T H I S D AY ˾ Ͷ˜ 2021

Move Towards Exchange Rate Unification Positive, Says FSDH Dike Onwuamaeze A report by the FSDH Research has described recent move by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to achieve exchange convergence is positive, saying it would ensure clarity and improve market confidence in the economy.

The report also stated that the move would enable Nigeria to unlock funding from several multilateral organisations such as the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank and ease the pressure on the exchange rate in the medium term.

It further stated that the central bank’s current move towards unified exchange rate was expected to ensure flexibility and market- determined rate, which it stated to a large extent would,

reduce arbitrage, round-tripping and could move the naira towards its fair value.

“The CBN’s move is expected to instill confidence in the market as foreign investors are more likely to participate in a less fragmented market that can be fairly predictable.

“Given this framework, the options available for the CBN include raising the interest rates to incentivise inflow of capital into the economy that may hurt economic recovery in subsequent quarters or relax capital control rules/ restrictions and simultaneously increase market interventions to prevent significant depreciation of the naira that may result in external reserves depletion,” the report stated.

It, however urged the CBN

to follow up the move to unify the exchange rate with a set of consistent forex policies that would seek to improve market liquidity and prevent every form of foreign exchange arbitrage and unnecessary subsidies.

It also urged the CBN to clear forex backlogs, which the IMF estimated to be $2 billion in February 2021, to further instill confidence in the market.

The report, which was titled “Nigeria’s Foreign Exchange Policy Note- Navigating through the Tides of Uncertainty,” adding that: “As much as Nigeria needs effective management of foreign exchange and unification of exchange rate to boost confidence, the supply shortage of foreign exchange is still a major problem.

“Increasing foreign exchange supply from non-CBN sources is

vital in maintaining exchange rate stability in the I&E window and reducing speculative activities.”

The report predicted that the CBN would be faced with, “policy trilemma” to explain Nigeria’s foreign exchange and monetary choices.

The ‘trilemma’ refers to the trade-offs a government faces when making crucial monetary policy decisions because only two out of the three objectives could be achieved at a time.

It added: “With COVID-19, Nigeria maintained the two objectives of having a fixed/ managed official exchange rate and monetary autonomy at the expense of free movement of capital. This was evident in the capital controls and forex backlogs.

“The recent move by the

CBN to adopt the I&E market rate as the official rate will enable the CBN to control interest rate while capital controls can be relaxed, but exchange rate will have to be flexible.

“Whether the naira appreciates or depreciates will depend on the level of capital inflows and outflows, CBN’s involvement in the market and the external reserves position.

“This means only way to maintain a stable exchange rate is to attract even more capital into the economy or intervene heavily in the forex market using the external reserves.”

It added that the planned issuance of Eurobond by the government would provide some relief in the market and boost external reserves in the

short term.

However, from the fiscal and trade perspective, “Nigeria will need to leverage on the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) agreement to boost non-oil exports and increase foreign exchange inflows.”

The FSDH also recommended that, “providing direct incentives for businesses to produce for exports by implementing port reforms as well as developing a comprehensive industrial and trade strategies would be important steps that the government must take.

“Our 2021 forecasts for key indicators include real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth of 1.3 per cent, an average exchange rate of N430/$ and an inflation rate of 16.6 per cent.”

Firm Launches Fitness App to Promote Wellness Ugo Aliogo The Mind D Gap Media Limited has launched a fitness App that combines afrobeat music, counting of dance steps, and diet monitoring to promote the overall wellness of an individual.

Speaking during the launch of the fitness App in Lagos recently, the Chief Executive Officer, Mind D Gap Media Limited, Oluwadamilare Okenla, stated that what inspired the creation of the App was his passion for fitness and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

He also stated that the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown really helped in the development of the App, adding that medical doctors had advised that people should exercise more since they were working from home.

He also explained that his reasons for coming to Nigeria was basically to spread awareness, noting that in the United Kingdom the government provides a high level of support to the citizens and there are various activities aimed at promoting fitness and

overall wellness of an individual.

According to him, “Exercises don’t necessarily imply going to the gym, but to move and burn calories. I think Nigerians can actually benefit from this especially through weight loss and burning calories.

“This App is first of its kind in Nigeria because it teaches the user how to dance, count your steps, and burn calories. Most Apps we have now basically count your steps.

“I know subsequently that other Apps will come up that will be doing similar things, but for now, this is the App made for Nigerians and by a Nigerian DJ. “The App can be downloaded both on Playstore and I-stores respectively. When Android approved us we taught it was going to be easier with Apple because their processes are quite straightforward, but Apple has a lot of new policies and regulations now. For instance, if you are a seller or developer and you want to charge your users, Apple wants to be the one to take the money and pay.

PILA Unveils CSR Foundation Ebere Nwoji The Professional Insurance Ladies Association (PILA) has announced the institution of its corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiative known as the PILA Foundation.

The association at its 25th virtual Annual General Meeting held recently, also presented N1 million education grant to the best Mathematics girl in a recent Global Annual Mathematics Competition.

The association said the Foundation would be the vehicle through which its social responsibilities would be delivered to its teeming stakeholders.

PILA President, Joyce Ojemudia, said the initiative was the culmination of the association’s well stated desires to give back to the society especially its stakeholders and the female folk.

The education grant was offered to Faith Odunsi, a 15-year-old girl who made history by winning the Global Open Mathematics Competition beating contestants from Europe,

Asia and America earlier in the year.

Commending the doggedness of the winner, the PILA president said “Faith is that child that has become an inspiration to many.

Her historic win at the Global Open Mathematics Tournament is testament to her brilliance and excellent spirit.

“We at PILA want to use this Grant to congratulate her and to offer her our support as a girl child who has brought honour to her family and motherland,” Ojemudia said.

She promised that PILA would be available to mentor her and give her more support as she continues her academic exploits in life.

The prize winner was accompanied by her mother, Oluwasijibomi Odunsi and the personal assistant to the Proprietor of her school, The Ambassadors School, Ogun State, Yinka Kawonise.

The recipient’s mother thanked the association for the award and prayed for the continued growth of the body.

‘Victor Attah Airport to Process One Million Passengers Annually on Completion’ Okon Bassey in Uyo At least one million passengers would be process through the world class terminal building at the Victor Attah International Airport within a year.

The State Commissioner for Special Duties, Mr. Okpolupum Etteh, gave the projection recently, while conducting journalists to showcase the progress work at the airport.

The all-automated international terminal airport building billed for completion in 2022, was designed after Istanbul’s latest airport terminal in Turkey.

Etteh, said the state government was comfortable with the speed of work being delivered.

The commissioner disclosed

that the terminal building is both for domestic and International flights, and provision made for further expansion.

“If not for COVID-19, we were looking at completing this project

by December this year but now, we are looking at the middle of next year, there is nothing we can do. Even the roofing sheets, we are still expecting them from Turkey.

“But so far, so good we are very okay, but you know, even when you finish, you still need one or two months to test run all the electrical facilities before handing over.

“But there are some few things that we have here in the terminal that they don’t have at the terminal in Istanbul, Turkey.

“Virtually everything here is going to be automated, even the lifts, the escalators, which is what makes this building a smart building.

“This terminal is designed to process a minimum of one million passengers a year. It has a sitting capacity of 1,000.

“The building is divided into two, one way is domestic, and the other way is International.

We have Immigration, we have customs, we have duty free shops, everything you have in an international airport,” he stressed.

The Commissioner said the airport would translate to a hub for aviation operations in the region, with the completion of the Maintenance, Repair and

Overhaul (MRO) section amongst other ongoing projects.

According to him, the airport would soon begin the operations of International flights within the sub-region, once the aircrafts purchased for arrives the state.

“This building is not only for domestic operations, we are looking at it becoming a regional hub, so there is going to be a lot of employment here, and there will be a lot of revenue for the Akwa Ibom State Government.

“We have so many projects around here. We are also working on the inside of the MRO for the completion of the MRO. “Aviation is one investment that will bring so much investment and revenue to the state.”

Mohammed Lists Benefits of Aero’s Flight Service to Bauchi Segun Awofadeji in Bauchi The Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Mohammed has said the commencement of flight operations to Bauchi State

by Aero Contractors will open up the state and make it the business hub of the north-east region in the nearest future.

The Governor who was speaking at the commencement of flight operations into Bauchi

by Aero Contractors airline said the state has natural resources

that can attract investors.

He described the famous Yankari Resort and Safari as places that need to be visited

by Nigerians who want to enjoy hospitality and tourism, adding that Bauchi state is one of the safest state in the north-east region. Mohammed who received the inaugural flight of the airline into Bauchi from Abuja, at the Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa International Airport, Bauchi, said the state was collaborating with the Ministry of Aviation to

make the airport a cargo terminal.

“Bauchi is central and gateway to all the states in the north-east sub-region, it is easily accessible to Adamawa, Borno, Taraba and Yobe states. It is also very close to Jigawa state, if we have the cargo terminal here, business will rise.

“With the coming of Aero airline, competition has been introduced into the industry. Let me inform you that this company approached us to come in unlike the one we had to persuade to

come,” the governor said.

He assured that his government will support the airline in other to keep flying in and out of the state, saying that, the government will subsidise price and render other financial support to maintain flight operations at the airport.

Earlier, the Managing Director of Aero Airlines, Captain Abdullahi Mahmoud, assured that there would be regular flights in and out of Bauchi because according to him, the airline is in business to serve humanity.

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TUESDAY JUNE 8, 2021 • T H I S D AY

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T H I S D AY ˾ TUESDAY JUNE 8, 2021

PROPERTY & ENVIRONMENT U.S. Consulate, YALI Alumni Celebrate World Environment Day with School Children Bennett Oghifo

T

he U.S. Consulate, and the Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI) Alumni joined the global community last Saturday to commemorate World Environment Day (WED) 2021 with the theme: “Ecosystem Restoration.” The YALI was launched by the United States government as a signature effort to invest in the next generation of African leaders.

In commemoration of World Environment Day, Acting U.S. Consul General Brandon Hudspeth on Saturday participated in a tree planting event with students of St. Savior’s School, Ebute Metta, Lagos.

Acting Consul General Hudspeth alongside General Manager of the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA) Dr. Dolapo Fasawe and Assistant Director at the Lagos State Ministry of Environment Folasade Adeyoju, joined the students to plant a tree

on the grounds of the school, according to a statement issued by the Public Affairs Section (PAS), U.S. Consulate General.

The event was organised by members of the Young Africa Leaders Initiative (YALI) under the auspices of the Mandela Washington Fellowship Alumni Association, with the support of a public diplomacy grant of the U.S. Consulate General.

Hudspeth noted that the tree planting activity underscores the U.S. government’s commitment to supporting initiatives that raise awareness about the importance of protecting the environment.

“We are thrilled that our YALI alumni are partnering with St. Savior’s School for today’s tree planting activity. Children have the potential to be powerful agents of change. By focusing on school-aged children, giving them tools and knowledge to change behaviors, future generations will be better prepared to care for the environment,” Hudspeth said.

He expressed optimism that

the involvement of the students in the tree planting activity will shape their perspective about environmental conservation and restoration of our ecosystem. He also acknowledged the positive impact of work performed by the YALI alumni to build linkages between different communities and government institutions in Nigeria to promote environmental conservation efforts.

“Our main goal is to implement a campaign that will involve community members, local organisations, and government institutions to inspire and educate Nigerians on the importance of a clean environment for human health and a strong economy,” Acting Consul General Hudspeth added.

In her remarks, LASEPA General Manager Dr. Dolapo Fasawe lauded the schoolkids and their teachers for their commitment toward protecting the environment. According to her, tree planting plays an essential role in mitigating the impact of

climate change. “Planting trees is one of the most important things we can do to contribute to the health of the planet,” Dr. Fasawe noted.

Head Teacher, St. Savior’s School, Ebute Metta, Mrs.

Lawrencia Izedonmwen, expressed the commitment of the school to promote environmental education and responsibility by creating awareness and empowering schoolchildren in its host community.

Following the tree planting activity, YALI alumni members moved to the Sabo-Yaba community of Lagos for a clean-up exercise as part of activities marking World Environment Day.

Acting US Consul General Brandon Hudspeth with Students and Staff of St Savior’s School Ebutte Meta, Lagos, during the Tree Planting event on World Environment Day

NCF Promotes Ecosystem Restoration The Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF), a foremost environmental NGO in Nigeria, dedicated to nature conservation and biodiversity resource management, also joined the global community to commemorate World Environment Day (WED) 2021. NCF lined up key activities promoting restoration of the ecosystem across the nation, as

this year’s theme is in line with the goals of Green Recovery Nigeria (GRN) Initiative of NCF, according to a statement issued by the Foundation.

The highpoint of the NCF weeklong activities for WED 2021 is a hybrid event on Thursday, June 10, 2021, at its National Headquarters in Lekki, Lagos. This week’s

event will be held with strict compliance to all COVID-19 safety protocols. This would be followed up by setting up school gardens and fruit tree orchards in 20 selected schools across different locations within Lagos State.

School grounds cannot be neglected as climate change impact is being felt allover

Erubami Advocates Facility Management as Solution to Nigeria’s Building Problems Fadekemi Ajakaiye Quality shelter remains an essential lifeline for the sustainability of any society, and with the growth in Nigeria’s population, professionals have stated the imperative of providing and maintaining requisite facilities for sustainable development.

On account of this, a top expert in facility management, Paul Erubami, has raised concerns over the process of meeting these needs, which might fall short of the required standard without the involvement of facility management.

Erubami, founder and CEO of Max-Migold Ltd, a facility management company, called for refocusing on efficient management of the built environment, through facility management.

“Nigeria is building at a pace that has never been seen before anywhere on the continent.

Technology is advancing in

Erubami

such a way that we are having new types of buildings; green, smart, intelligent buildings.

We are also developing more interests in the facility management industry in Nigeria, but we lack the capacity. There is no organisation focusing on building capacity for managing our built environment.

“There is more focus on mass constructions, mass housing, and new infrastructure. But it takes a lot to keep these assets’ value up and running. We have identified gaps in knowledge and skills of managers. People are being drafted in from construction, engineering, and other fields to manage buildings without a facility management consultant, who understands how buildings degrade over time, the experiences of people over the useful life of a building.

Because facility management is a multi-disciplinary field, nobody is really focusing on the body of knowledge for managing buildings.

“We also found huge deficit in energy efficiency, energy provision for the facilities. This does not necessarily mean we have enough power for our built environment, because we are wasting 40% of the power we are generating. We engage with a lot of clients across the country and realise that we could save electricity and diesel cost for

up to about 30-40% just by intervening and using some smart systems. We want to close that gap through training.”

He believes there is an increasing demand and vacancy in the facility management space in Nigeria, stating that basic shelter can transform to new heights of safety, comfort and functionality through innovative implementation of quality facility management.

Erubami, who is vastlylearned and well-travelled, also has competencies in facility management trainings facility advisory, facility quality audits, efficient energy management, asset management, recruitment, and document digitisation, among others.

He also teaches practical facility management courses to Masters Students in Facility Management at the University of Lagos.

Erubami said with his repertoire of academic and professional accomplishments, he is qualified to officially teach IFMA CFM, FMP and SFP Certification Courses such as Operations and Maintenance, Project Management, Leadership and Strategy, Finance and Business, Strategy and Alignment for Sustainable Facility Management, Managing Sustainable Facilities, as well as Operating Sustainable Facilities.

Nigeria, trees will provide much needed shade and cooling, creating more pleasant environment for the children to play. Moreover, trees absorb carbondioxide from the air to grow, having trees will reduce the high rate of carbondioxide that heats up the atmosphere.

Planting trees on school grounds provide fencing and fruit for school children and teachers. Trees planted on school grounds also provide opportuni-

ties for environmental education, getting young children thinking about environmental conservation early.

Meanwhile, at Finima, Bonny Island, Rivers State, community sensitisation meetings would open the event, as NCF will be planting 400 coconut seedlings along the seashore to provide protection for the riverbank.

Beach clean-up exercise would also be engaged.

At Calabar, Cross River State,

NCF in collaboration with the Department of Environmental Education, University of Calabar, and selected secondary schools from Calabar Metropolis as well as other civil society groups would commemorate the event within the University environment. Activities to be carried out include Tree planting, a short walk for nature, clean up exercise and an outdoor talk on the theme of the event will feature.

Zulum Directs Sponsorship of 100 Borno Indigenes to Study Quantity Surveying Borno State Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum has directed scholarship for 100 indigenes of Borno to study Quantity Surveying in different institutions across the country.

Zulum gave the directive on Wednesday while declaring open a two-day workshop organised by the Nigerian Institute of Quantity Surveyors (NIQS) with the theme “Resources Schedule For Inclusive Development Of The Construction Industry.”

The Governor has directed the 27 Local Government Chairmen to immediately submit a list of 3 indigenes each of theirs.

“The Chairmen of the 27 LGAs are directed to submit 3 names from the less privileged members of their communities for immediate sponsorship.”

Zulum said.

Zulum’s approval was to address the increasing demand for Quantity Surveyors in the State.

Borno was reported to have only 9 registered Surveyors, which is grossly inadequate in the face of ongoing reconstruction and rehabilitation.

“When I received the President of the Institute yesterday in my office, I was made to know that we only have 9 registered Quantity Surveyors in Borno

State. We cannot allow this to continue.” Zulum declared.

In his remarks, the President of the Nigerian Institute of Quantity Surveyors, QS Mohammed Abba Tor, FNIQS said, the choice of Borno for hosting the workshop was to recognise the tremendous infrastructural projects embarked upon by the Zulum’s administration in the last two years.

The President also expressed gratitude to Governor Zulum for hosting the event at the multipurpose hall of the Government House, he said, first by any Governor in NIQS’ history.

L-R: Borno State Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum; and President of the Nigerian Institute Of Quantity Surveyors, QS Mohammed Abba Tor, during a courtesy call on the governor… recently

TUESDAY JUNE 8, 2021 • T H I S D AY

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BUSINESS/MONEYGUIDE

UKAID-funded Agency, BPE Sign Agreement to Boost PPPs Ndubuisi Francis ÓØ ÌßÔË The United Kingdom Nigeria Infrastructure Advisory Facility (UKNIAF) and the Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE) have signed an agreement to support the Bureau in the areas of institutional and human capacity building.

This is to enable the BPE deliver on its mandate of delivering infrastructure projects in Nigeria using the Public Private Partnership (PPP) model.

UKNIAF is a flexible rapid response UKAID-funded programme implemented by Tetra Tech International Development, and aims to improve the delivery and management of Nigeria’s infrastructure.

At the agreement-signing ceremony in Abuja recently, BPE Director General Mr. Alex Okoh said the event provided an opportunity to appreciate UKNIAF’s willingness to support Nigeria’s PPP programme by providing technical assistance to support transition towards low carbon, climate-resilient infrastructure.

According to a statement by the BPE, Okoh said UKNIAF’s support would ensure appropriate screening and selection of projects that promote inclusiveness and are climate smart, reduce poverty and are potentially bankable.

He added that the agreement was the aftermath of the federal government’s policy on the administration of concession in Nigeria which cleared any form of ambiguity and provided clarity on institutional responsibilities for PPPs in the country.

The statement signed by BPE’s Head, Public Communications, AminaTukur Othman noted that Okoh cited the September 2020 federal government circular wherein “the Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) are to identify projects, the Federal Ministry of Finance, Budget & National Planning is to screen and approve in line with the National Integrated Infrastructure Master Plan (NIIMP) and Economic Recovery Growth Plan (ERGP) documents while BPE is the project or transaction implementation agency.”

UKNIAF, Okoh stressed has

identified some critical areas in which it would provide institutional and human capacity building support. They include integrating national and global social sustainability criteria in project preparation and selection, developing PPP project pipeline, producing concept notes, and managing the transaction stage of the PPP project delivery lifecycle, among others.

UKNIAF will also be supporting the procurement process for the appointment of transaction advisors; supporting where possible, the process of securing project preparation funds from UKNIAF’s panel of PPF fund providers; and providing ongoing support as required enhancing the capacity of the institution to reach commercial close on projects. According to him, it was on that basis that UKNIAF sent the Bureau, a Mutual Accountability Framework (MAF) aimed at, “fostering a shared agenda of ensuring aid effectiveness and serves to clearly state the roles of each party, their responsibilities and their commitment to working collaboratively.”

FG Justifies Borrowing Omolabake Fasogbon The federal government has defended its resolve to obtain $6.1billion foreign loan, stating that the move was in the interest of Nigerians, most especially tax payers.

The Senior Special Assistant to the President on Niger Delta Affairs, Senator Ita Enang clarified the move during by the Chartered Institute of Nigeria (CITN) fellow conferment ceremony held in Lagos, recently.

According to the former lawmaker, the present state of the country resulting from insecurity and global pandemic, amongst others made borrowing an inevitable survival strategy for Nigeria. He noted in particular that the option of borrowing would save taxpayers the burden of sudden tax increment.

“Essentially, government

borrows so that it can enable higher spending without having to increase taxes. Tax revenues are less than predicted, hence we see sharp rise in government borrowing.

“Borrowing means government can meet a temporary shortfall by borrowing, rather than having to immediately cut back on spending. “Like an overdraft facility, government borrowing allows for more flexibility and means they can maintain wages and spending commitments without having to keep cutting spending,” he added.

Enang said the controversy over President Buhari ’s request for $6.1billion loan to fund 2021 budget deficit should not be.

“It should be noted that the increase in Nigeria’s debt stock between 2015 and 2018 was due to the borrowings of the three tiers of government, and not the

federal government alone.

“Note also that the rising debt was to improve infrastructure and create jobs in Nigeria, where unemployment has been projected to rise to 33.5 per cent, from the current rate pegged at 23.1 per cent,” he insisted.

Enang solicited support for federal government policies such as the increase in electricity tariff, which he said was expected to generate revenue.

He added: “This is important to sustain our national debt. The government has been digging up new measures to improve its revenue, one of which is the tax reform.”

Earlier, President of CITN, Gladys Olajumoke Simplice urged government to always position tax professionals at the helm of MDAs’ tax affairs to enhance professionalism, revenue generation and curb leakages.

Okoh

MARKET INDICATORS MONEY AND CREDIT STATISTICS

(MILLION NAIRA)

JANUARY 2021 Money Supply (M3)

38,779,455.43

-- CBN Bills Held by Money Holding Sectors

1,039,129.55

Money Supply (M2)

37,740,325.88

-- Quasi Money

21,779,302.69

-- Narrow Money (M1)

15,961,023.19

---- Currency Outside Banks

2,364,871.13

---- Demand Deposits

13,596,152.06

Net Foreign Assets (NFA)

7,414,275.50

Net Domestic Assets(NDA)

31,365,179.93

-- Net Domestic Credit (NDC)

42,916,586.63

---- Credit to Government (Net)

12,304,773.44

---- Memo: Credit to Govt. (Net) less FMA

0.00

---- Memo: Fed. and Mirror Accounts (FMA)

0.00

---- Credit to Private Sector (CPS)

30,611,813.19

--Other Assets Net

3,892,112.74

Reserve Money (Base Money

13,264,585.14

--Currency in Circulation

2,831,167.19

--Banks Reserves --Special Intervention Reserves

10,433,417.96 317,234.17

˾ ÙßÜÍÏ ̋

Money Market Indicators (in Percentage)

SON Evacuates Seized Substandard Tyres in Ogun State Determined to sustain the current tempo on unwholesome products across the country, the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) has evacuated substandard tyres from a warehouse located in a remote area in Ogun State.

Recall that the standards body recently stated that purveyors were devising new methods by taking advantage of the vast nature of the country to warehouse substandard goods in remote areas.

The Director General, SON, Mallam Farouk Salim, who was represented by the Director, Inspectorate and Compliance, SON, Mike Dakhing, said the evacuation exercise of the seized stuffed-in tyre of 200 containers in Obafemi Owode Local Government, Ogun State was to ensure that the tyres do not find their ways into the nation’s market.

He stressed that products have been tested and they all failed the critical parameters as

a result of stuffing. A statement quoted him to have said: “You may recall that few weeks ago, the Director General, Mallam Farouk blew open to the whole world the nefarious activities going on in this community and as you know he opposes fake and substandard products and any unwholesome activity that will encourage it because that is the mandate he has been given.

“Today we are here to evacuate these tyres which is the first stage in their destruction. It will interest you that we obtained the laboratory results after testing these tyres which they all failed.

In our warehouse, we will await the necessary legal procedures that will enable us to destroy them.”

According to the SON top official, the evacuation and destruction would cost the agency much money, adding that the agency has been perfecting an act that would ensure the substandard

products importer bear the cost Reacting to a question on why the tyres were classified as substandard, he stated that the act of stuffing them into one another have rendered the tyres dead on arrival into the country.

He stated: “The act of stuffing them into one another and instead of bringing in the tyres into different containers, the purveyors of these tyres stuff into one another.

“For example, if they are to bring 300 tyres in one container, they will now have the opportunity to bring in 1500 tyres and in doing that, this compromises the quality of the tyres and as you know the tyres are made of wires and carbon and the test reviewed that the textile strength of the tyres have been compromised so they are no more fit for use and this is why we are going to destroy them. They may look nice in the eyes, but we rely on scientific investigation and analysis.”

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

˾ ÙØÏÞËÜã ÙÖÓÍã ËÞÏ ̋ ͯͱϱ

OPEC DAILY BASKET PRICE ˜ Ͳ ͰͮͰͯ

Vienna, Austria, 7 June 2021--The price of OPEC basket of thirteen crudes stood at $70.21 a barrel on Friday, compared with $69.89 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), Zafiro (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

33

T H I S D AY ˾ Ͷ˜ 2021

May & Baker Shareholders Approve N517.6 Million Dividend Goddy Egene Shareholders of May &Baker Nigeria Plc have approved the dividend of 30 kobo per share recommended by the board of directors for the year ended December 31, 2020.

The dividend pay-out which amounted to N517.6 million, was approved at the 70th Annual General Meeting(AGM) of the company held in Lagos.

Speaking during the AGM,

Chairman, Board of Directors, Senator Daisy Danjuma said despite the very challenging operating environment in the business year under review, she was glad that the company recorded growth in both turnover and profit.

According to her, the company made a 16 per cent growth in revenue from N8 billion in 2019 to N9.4 billion in 2020, while gross profit grew by 30 per cent from N2. 9

P R I C E S MAIN BOARD

F O R DEALS

billion to N3.8 billion. Profit before tax grew by 39 per cent from N901 million in 2019 to N1.2 billion in 2020 Danjuma explained that the company made efforts to contain the rising cost of doing business in the country but the hyperinflation prevalent in the economy , combined with forex scarcity increased the cost of operations.

She noted that their cost of sales rose by eight per cent from N5.2 billion in 2019 to

S E C U R I T I E S

MARKET PRICE

QUANTITY TRADED

VALUE TRADED ( N )

N5.6 billion in 2020.

Also speaking, Managing Director/CEO, May & Baker Nigeria Plc, Mr. Patrick Ajah, said the year, 2020 was one of the most challenging but the company’s growth strategies showed commendable resilience and continued to gain traction.

“These were pointers to its general operating efficiency and indication that its strategies were in the right direction. We shall continue on this growth trajec-

T R A D E D MAIN BOARD

A S

tory as we hope to accomplish more audacious goals in the current business year,” he said.

Responding to the impressive results, some of the shareholders commended the improvements in the operations of the company, adding that the unprecedented resilience, commitment, and hard work of the management team at ensuring the achievement of the company’s strategic objectives culminated in the success it

O F

recorded.

For instance, Sunny Nwosu of Independent Shareholders Association of Nigeria hailed the board and the management of the pharmaceutical company for their performance in the recent period, noting that the company must make efforts to take advantage of openings in vaccine production, on account of its existing joint venture with the federal government for local vaccine production.

0 7 / 0 6 / 2 0 2 1 DEALS

MARKET PRICE

QUANTITY TRADED

VALUE TRADED ( N)

34

TUESDAY JUNE 8, 2021 •T H I S D AY

TUESDAY JUNE 8, 2021 • T H I S D AY

35

36

TUESDAY, JUNE 8, 2021 ˾ T H I S D AY

MARKET NEWS A Mutual fund (Unit Trust) is an investment vehicle managed by a SEC (Securities and Exchange Commission) registered Fund Manager.

Investors with similar objectives buy units of the Fund so that the Fund Manager can buy securities that willl generate their desired return.

An ETF (Exchange Traded Fund) is a type of fund which owns the assets (shares of stock, bonds, oil futures, gold bars, foreign currency, etc.) and divides ownership of those assets into shares. Investors can buy these ‘shares’ on the

floor of the Nigerian Stock Exchange.

A REIT (Real Estate Investment Trust) is an investment vehicle that allows both small and large investors to part-own real estate ventures (eg.

Offices, Houses, Hospitals) in proportion to their investments. The assets are divided into shares that are traded on the Nigerian Stock Exchange.

GUIDE TO DATA: Date: All fund prices are quoted in Naira as at 04Jun-2021, unless otherwise stated.

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.

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 N/A N/A N/A Afrinvest Plutus Fund N/A N/A N/A Nigeria International Debt Fund N/A N/A N/A Afrinvest Dollar Fund N/A N/A N/A 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 5.01% AIICO Balanced Fund 3.27 3.33 -9.19% info@anchoriaam.com ANCHORIA ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED info@anchoriaam.com Web:www.anchoriaam.com, Tel: 08166830267; 08036814510; 08028419180 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Anchoria Money Market 100.00 100.00 3.10% Anchoria Equity Fund 129.28 130.71 -2.80% Anchoria Fixed Income Fund 1.03 1.03 -22.30% 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 18.94 19.51 4.43% ARM Discovery Balanced Fund 414.46 426.96 3.52% ARM Ethical Fund N/A N/A N/A ARM Eurobond Fund ($) 1.08 1.09 -11.25% ARM Fixed Income Fund 0.96 0.96 -14.41% ARM Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 4.35% AVA GLOBAL ASSET MANAGERS LIMITED info@avacapitalgroup.com Web: www.avacapitalgroup.com Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn AVA GAM Fixed Income Dollar Fund N/A N/A N/A AXA MANSARD INVESTMENTS LIMITED investmentcare@axamansard.com Web: www.axamansard.com; Tel: +2341-4488482 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn AXA Mansard Equity Income Fund 129.17 129.82 2.27% AXA Mansard Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 7.42% CAPITAL EXPRESS ASSET AND TRUST LIMITED info@capitalexpressassetandtrust.com Web: www.capitalexpressassetandtrust.com ; Tel: +234 803 307 5048 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn CEAT Fixed Income Fund 1.95 1.95 -22.43% Capital Express Balanced Fund(Formerly: Union Trustees Mixed Fund) 2.01 2.05 -23.77% mutualfunds@cardinalstone.com CARDINALSTONE ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED Web: www.cardinalstoneassetmanagement.com ; Tel: +234 (1) 710 0433 4 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn CardinalStone Fixed Income Alpha Fund N/A N/A N/A CHAPELHILL DENHAM MANAGEMENT LTD investmentmanagement@chapelhilldenham.com Web: www.chapelhilldenham.com, Tel: +234 461 0691 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Chapelhill Denham Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 4.83% Paramount Equity Fund 15.91 16.19 -0.56% Women's Investment Fund 132.30 133.68 -0.64% CORDROS ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED assetmgtteam@cordros.com Web: www.cordros.com, Tel: 019036947 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Cordros Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 4.57% Cordros Milestone Fund 2023 115.81 116.57 Cordros Milestone Fund 2028 N/A N/A Cordros Dollar Fund ($) 106.67 106.67 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 3.60% Coronation Balanced Fund 1.16 1.18 -2.99% Coronation Fixed Income Fund 1.37 1.37 -13.81% 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 100.00 100.00 3.06% EDC Nigeria Money Market Fund Class B 1,000,000.00 1,000,000.00 3.04% EDC Nigeria Fixed Income Fund 1,161.07 1,168.85 -3.04% 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 1,372.68 1,372.68 10.42% FBN Balanced Fund 185.58 186.76 -1.12% FBN Halal Fund 109.71 109.71 6.72% FBN Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 7.56% FBN Nigeria Eurobond (USD) Fund - Retail 125.12 125.12 3.44% FBN Smart Beta Equity Fund 153.10 155.18 1.27% 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 N/A N/A N/A Legacy Debt Fund N/A N/A N/A Legacy Equity Fund N/A N/A N/A Legacy USD Bond Fund N/A N/A N/A 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 N/A N/A N/A Coral Income Fund N/A N/A N/A FSDH Treasury Bills Fund

N/A

N/A

N/A

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 N/A N/A N/A Nigeria Entertainment Fund N/A N/A N/A 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 5.93% Vantage Balanced Fund 2.80 2.86 21.96% Vantage Guaranteed Income Fund 1.00 1.00 4.50% Kedari Investment Fund (KIF) 149.33 149.77 -3.91% Vantage Equity Income Fund (VEIF) - June Year End 1.23 1.27 29.91% Vantage Dollar Fund (VDF) - June Year End 1.09 1.09 6.24% 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 1.36 1.38 0.00% Lotus Halal Fixed Income Fund 1,140.29 1,140.29 3.24% 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 10.86 10.89 3.59% Meristem Money Market Fund 10.00 10.00 6.30% 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 1.66 1.68 7.20% PACAM Fixed Income Fund 12.38 12.44 2.07% PACAM Money Market Fund 10.00 10.00 3.53% PACAM Equity Fund 1.58 1.59 0.02% PACAM EuroBond Fund 110.95 112.56 0.91% 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 128.83 131.80 8.81% 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 1.01 1.01 3.05% 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 3,134.62 3,159.51 -2.53% Stanbic IBTC Bond Fund 230.03 230.03 2.30% Stanbic IBTC Ethical Fund 1.18 1.19 0.42% Stanbic IBTC Guaranteed Investment Fund 301.67 301.67 2.38% Stanbic IBTC Iman Fund 216.39 219.05 -0.98% Stanbic IBTC Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 6.70% Stanbic IBTC Nigerian Equity Fund 10,215.95 10,343.10 -2.74% Stanbic IBTC Dollar Fund (USD) 1.26 1.26 2.39% Stanbic IBTC Shariah Fixed Income Fund 113.94 113.94 2.57% Stanbic IBTC Enhanced Short-Term Fixed Income Fund 101.33 101.33 UNITED CAPITAL ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD Web: www.unitedcapitalplcgroup.com; Tel: +234 01-6317876 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn United Capital Balanced Fund 1.35 1.37 -1.36% United Capital Bond Fund 1.94 1.94 2.76% United Capital Equity Fund 0.91 0.93 4.84% United Capital Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 7.91% United Capital Eurobond Fund 120.77 120.77 3.15% United Capital Wealth for Women Fund 1.09 1.11 0.99% United capital Sukuk Fund 1.05 1.05 5.15% 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 12.19 12.29 2.67% Zenith Ethical Fund 13.60 13.72 11.30% Zenith Income Fund 24.10 24.10 0.51% Zenith Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 5.50%

REITS NAV Per Share

Yield / T-Rtn

123.46 51.40

2.25% -1.91%

Bid Price

Offer Price

Yield / T-Rtn

12.61 124.05 97.34 16.82 17.35

12.71 124.05 99.10 16.92 17.45

-4.59% 1.90% -2.07% -

Fund Name SFS REIT Union Homes REIT

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

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 Money Market 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

3.67 5.57 16.93 1.00 18.79 161.37

3.71 5.65 17.03 1.00 18.99 163.37

-2.68% -2.09% 3.57% 3.85% -8.39% -26.28%

NAV Per Share

Yield / T-Rtn

107.52

13.11%

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.

TUESDAY JUNE 8, 2021 ˾ T H I S D AY

37

NEWS

Sultan Tasks Nigerian Leaders on Fairness, Justice, Equity Segun Awofadeji in Bauchi The Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Saad Abubakar lll, has charged Nigerian leaders to always strive to do what the people want, as well as ensure that they are fair,

equitable and just in the discharge of their responsibilities.

He declared that what is needed in the country is excellent and purposeful leadership, saying that that was the main reason they were voted into power by

the people.

The Sultan of Sokoto, who stated these while in Bauchi, Bauchi State capital, at the inauguration of the ultramodern Hajj Camp, noted that: “Leadership has been

bestowed on us by Allah; He expects us to be just, fair and equitable to all. We should know that one day, we will all give account of our stewardship in the hereafter.”

The monarch added: “It is

incumbent on us as leaders to discharge our responsibility to the best of our ability, as the followers are looking up to us for effective leadership. That is what we have to do in order to make the country better.”

He also warned political and religious leaders not to allow the prayers of the oppressed Nigerians to go up to God, which he said may lead to negative consequences against them.

Twitter Suspension: PDP Cautions FG against Harassment of Foreign Envoys Chuks Okocha in Abuja The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) yesterday cautioned the All Progressives Congress (APC)led federal government against harassing foreign envoys and other members of the international community for speaking out against the infringement on the rights of Nigerians by the President Muhammadu Buhari administration.

The PDP position is predicated on the summoning of the envoys of the United States, the United Kingdom, the European Union, Canada, among others by the Buhari government, for standing on the side of Nigerians in criticiszing the unwarranted suspension of Twitter in Nigeria.

The party in a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Kola Ologbondiyan, said that it was alarmed by the

development which it said: “Is smacked of intolerance towards the international community as obtained in Idi Amin’s dictatorial Uganda of 1971 to 1979.”

According to the PDP, “Our party notes that there is no law or statute that prohibits foreign envoys from speaking out against clear violation of internationally enshrined freedom of expression and rights to social interactions as provided by Twitter and other social media platforms.

“In fact, the defence of such rights is a fundamental duty which envoys owe their host nations and the international community.”

The PDP, therefore, cautioned that any harassment or assault on foreign envoys place them at great risk as well as pitch the country against other members of the international community.

Igangan Massacre, a Declaration of War onYoruba, Says Group Victor Ogunje in Ado Ekiti The leader of the apex umbrella body of Yoruba Self-Determination Groups, Ilana Omo Oodua, Prof.

Banji Akintoye, has stated that the killing of over 20 people at Igangan, Ibarapa zone, Oyo State, by alleged Fulani herders was a declaration of war against the ‘peace-loving’ Yoruba people.

Accusing the President Muhammadu Buhari-led federal government of allegedly backing the “terrorist herdsmen that have been maiming, killing and raping the Yoruba people,” Akintoye in a statement issued yesterday called on the people to arm themselves with whatever they can lay their hands on to defend their land against external aggression.

The statement, which was signed by his Communications Manager, Mr. Maxwell Adeleye, saluted Governor Rotimi Akeredolu of Ondo State, who is the chairman of South-west Governors’ Forum, for his bold stand on the Igangan massacre.

Akintoye called on the South-west state governors to put aside constitutional objections to defend their people, saying “Yoruba land has been surrounded, and we must act now.”

The second republic senator urged the younger Yoruba people to rise to the occasion by coming out to defend their land via technological, spiritual and physical warfare, warning that “the Fulani herdsmen attack must never be allowed to succeed anywhere in Yoruba land again.”

While commiserating with the people of Igangan, “we hereby issue a red alert to all Yoruba people at home and in the Diaspora.

“It must now be clear to all Yoruba people of all classes and economic circumstances that war has come in a big way to our homeland. This war has been coming relentlessly for five years, but some of our people failed to understand the full intent and impact of it.

INSECURITY ON THEIR MINDS…

L-R: Former Director, Department of State Services (DSS), Mike Ejiofor; security expert, Major General Benjamin Badewole (rtd); General Secretary, Police Eminent Persons Forum (PEPF), Dr. Candyfidel Onwuraokoye; Chairman, PEPF, Mr. Koleosho Olalekan; and human rights activist, Mr. Femi Falana (SAN), at a one-day security summit organised by PEPF in Lagos … weekend

Army: IPOB Killed 128 Military, Police Personnel Says over 100 civilians also killed The Nigerian Army yesterday disclosed that the Eastern Security Network (ESN) set up by the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has killed 128 military and police personnel, as well as 15 civil defence officers, and 31 community policing members in the South-east.

The army also disclosed that the group has also killed over 100 civilians who refused to support its activities.

The Brigade Commander of 34 Artillery Brigade, Obinze, Owerri, Imo State, Brig. Gen. Raymond Utsaha, made these revelations in Owerri, Imo State capital, at joint press conference he organised with the state Commissioner of Police, Abutu Yaro.

According to him, the hoodlums masquerading as ‘Unknown Gunmen’ have killed no fewer than 150 security operatives and civilians in the South-east zone.

At a joint media interactive session organised by him and the state Commissioner of Police, Abutu Yaro, in Owerri, the army chief said no “responsible government” would allow such “criminal elements” to continue to have their way.

Utsaha disclosed that the gunmen had killed 78 police officers, 38 army officers, five Naval officers, seven Air Force officers, 15 Nigeria Security and Civil Defence officers, 31 community policing members

and over 100 innocent citizens in the five states of the South-East region since the unrest.

He promised that the government was committed to ending the activities of the hoodlums in the region.

“Within these few months, they have killed 78 police officers, 38 army officers, five naval officers, seven air force officers, 15 civil defence officers, 31 community policing members.

Twitter Suspension: MRA, IPC Threaten to Lodge Complaints Before AU, UN Two non-governmental organisations, Media Rights Agenda (MRA) and the International Press Centre (IPC) yesterday condemned the federal government’s indefinite suspension of Twitter in Nigeria and threatened to lodge a formal complaint before the appropriate agencies of the African Union (AU) and the United Nations (UN) if the Government does not immediately rescind the suspension.

The two organisations argued that the action is an unjustifiable violation of the rights of all Nigerians to freedom of expression and access to information, while also contravening the relevant instruments of both bodies.

In a statement issued in Lagos, the organisations condemned the Government’s action as a violation of international norms and standards, citing the African Commission on Human and

Peoples Rights’ Resolution 362 on the Right to Freedom of Information and Expression on the Internet in Africa, adopted on November 4, 2016 at its 59th Ordinary Session; the Declaration of Principles on Freedom of Expression and Access to Information in Africa, adopted by the Commission in November 2019, at its 65th Ordinary Session; and recent UN Human Rights Council resolutions touching on the matter.

In the statement signed by MRA’s Executive Director, Mr. Edetaen Ojo; and the Executive Director of IPC, Mr. Lanre Arogundade, the organisations noted that in its Resolution 362 of 2016, the African Commission has expressed concern at the practice by African States of “interrupting or limiting access to telecommunication services such as the Internet, social media and messaging services.”

Fashola Kicks against Destruction of Public Assets Says N2.6bn required to fix bridges wrecked by vandals Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja Minister of Works and Housing, Mr. Babatunde Fashola, (SAN) yesterday bemoaned the incessant destruction of public property in the country, noting that the federal government would require about N2.608 billion to fix a handful of bridges recently damaged by vandals.

Fashola explained that the

infrastructure damaged under the purview of his ministry include bridges across the nation such as Otedola and Kara bridges in Lagos as well as Tamburawa bridge in Kano which he said would cost N203 million, N605 million and N1.8 billion, respectively to repair.

A statement by the spokesperson of the ministry, Boade Akinola, noted that Fashola spoke in Abuja during

his presentation at the “Town Hall Meeting on Protecting Public Infrastructure” , organised by the ministry of information.

Fashola argued that no nation grows beyond the capacity of its infrastructure, lamenting the level of damage and vandalism of public property in the nation.

“Our ability to grow, to develop and to prosper, to get education and essentially to live a good life

is tied to quality and quantity of Infrastructure that we have,” he said.

He stressed that funds expended repairing the bridges could have been deployed to the health and education sectors, disclosing that a number of the bridges were abused by the conversion of spaces under the facility to shops and the use of parking spaces for businesses.

2023: Okowa Cautions Political Office Holders against Distractions Omon-Julius Onabu in Asaba

Delta State Governor, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, has cautioned those who hold political appointments in his government against all forms of complacency or dereliction of duty because of their vested interest in the 2023 general election in the country.

In a veiled reference to why he dissolved the state executive council and numerous senior political appointees, Okowa stressed that they should rather be preoccupied by the desire to redouble their efforts in contributing to the administration to enable it deliver on his electoral promises and finish strongly.

The governor gave the charge yesterday at the Government House in Asaba while swearing in the new Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Chief Patrick Ukah, as well as eight special advisers whose appointments were announced last week.

He cautioned appointees against abandoning their duties for 2023

politics, saying getting obsessed with 2023 politics could easily make them lose track that could lead to negligence and dereliction of duty.

“It is inevitable that politics will be played, but as much as possible, political appointees should endeavour to stick to their responsibilities and get a firm grip of the job at hand,” he pointed out.

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TUESDAY JUNE 8, 2021 ˾ T H I S D AY

24 HOURS...

24 HOURS...

Buhari Calls for Synergy Among Security Agencies to Tackle Insecurity IG decries impact of inter-agency rivalry on internal security Deji Elumoye and Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja President Muhammadu Buhari yesterday called for synergy

among security agencies as a step towards combating the deteriorating security situation in the country.

This is coming as the Inspector-

Lawan: N’Assembly will Pass PIB before End of June Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja The President of the Senate, Dr. Ahmad Lawan, has stated that the National Assembly would pass the much-awaited Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB) before the end of this month (June).

Speaking yesterday at the opening session of the 2021 Nigeria International Petroleum Summit (NIPS) in Abuja, Lawan disclosed that the federal lawmakers would soon conclude legislative work on the oil reform bill.

“In our legislative agenda for 2019-2023 in the ninth Assembly we decided that we must have a better way. We found out that neither the solo effort of the executive nor the solo effort of the legislature could deliver the PIB in the past.

“We now have a better cooperative approach where the

National Assembly will work with the administration to conceive the bill through very rigorous consultations and at the end of the day we narrowed down our differences and areas of potential conflict.”

“I think we have been able to achieve that significantly.

The speed and commitment the National Assembly has shown in working on the PIB and reaching where we are today shows that we have chosen the right path.

“As I speak, our joint committee of both Senate and the House on the PIB are about to conclude writing the report which will be submitted to both chambers of the National Assembly. Our expectation is that we will pass the PIB within this month of June by the grace of God,” Lawan explained.

General of Police (IG), Usman Baba yesterday said unhealthy inter-agency rivalry has been a major issue that limits the capacity to effectively achieve internal security.

He stated that there is so much pressure on the country’s security apparatus which is affecting the positive result expected from the security issues facing the nation.

The president charged the new Chief of Army Staff, Major General Farouk Yahaya, to bring his experience to bear in bringing stability to the

polity as the security architecture of the country was under serious pressure.

Buhari spoke in Abuja when the Minister of Defence, Major General Bashir Magashi (rtd), presented Yahaya to him.

He expressed confidence that the new crop of service chiefs would tackle insecurity in the country.

Speaking to reporters after meeting with the president, the minister assured Nigerians that there will be some security changes as soon

as possible.

Meanwhile, the Inspector-General of Police (IG), Baba yesterday said unhealthy inter-agency rivalry has been a major issue that limits the capacity to effectively achieve internal security.

Baba who spoke during the ongoing three-day annual ministerial retreat with a theme “Strengthening Inter-Agency Collaboration and Organisation Efficiency”, said: “This trend has been of concern to a cross section of Nigerians over the years.

This trend, I must say, is not peculiar to Nigeria alone.

“In the United States for example, weak inter-agency cooperation and collaboration which manifested in the failure of strategic security institutions to share intelligence and work together to advance the national security interests of the country, accounted for the 9/11 terror attack which has been described as the worst, but most preventable attack on their homeland security since the second world war.

RALLYING SUPPORT AGAINST INSECURITY…

L-R: Moderator, Mbaise Leadership Forum, Mr. Chris Ohanele; Mbaise USA President, Mr. SO Echendu, and Patron of Mbaise Global Foundation/former Minister of Education/Science and Technology, Dr. Sylvester Ugoh, after a meeting in Abuja…recently

Hogan Guards Partners Civil Defence to Tackle Insecurity on 2023 Elections: I Don’t Have Any Plan to Run with Soludo, Says Atiku next election, he is preoccupied ignored the reports, but for the attempt to drag the former vice Chuks Okocha in Abuja Lagos- Ibadan Expressway with helping to find remedies interest of those who may be president into an election in The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and foremost security company, Hogan Guards have partnered to tackle the growing insecurity around the nation, with a particular focus on the Long Bridge section of the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway.

At a meeting led by the CEO of Hogan Security, Mr. Paul Ibirogba, and head of the Civil Defence’s Mowe/Ibafo Division, Chief Superintendent of Corps Babalola Abiodun Johnson, it was agreed that the two organisations would proffer solutions to secure the Long Bridge section of the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, a stretch of road infamous for deadly crime such as robbery and kidnapping.

The two organisations have their offices adjacent to the Long

Bridge.

Ibirogba said due to Hogan Guards’ strategic location and large manpower at various sites along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, the company would provide intelligence to the NSCDC from its central command center which remotely monitors crime through surveillance technology.

“As the only major private security company headquartered along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, we are committed to the protection of our community, and we appreciate the NSCDC’s assistance in achieving that goal,” said Ibirogba. The security firm, which celebrates its 40th anniversary this year, also pledged full support and cooperation with NSCDC as both organisations work to reduce crime around the nation.

Former Vice President, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, has distanced himself from the campaign posters that surfaced in Abuja recently linking him and former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor, Professor Charles Soludo, for the 2023 presidential election.

In a statement signed by his media adviser, Paul Ibe, Atiku said rather than thinking of the

to the current challenges facing the country.

According to the statement, “Our attention has been drawn to reports in some sections of the media, of campaign posters of His Excellency Atiku Abubakar and Prof. Charles Soludo, an aspirant in the Anambra State governorship election, in some parts of Abuja.

“Ordinarily, we would have

misled by the disingenuous plot, we know nothing about the posters or those who may have promoted it.

“It is obvious that this is the work of mischief. For the avoidance of doubt, Atiku is of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), while Soludo is of the All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA). It is silly of anyone to

Anambra State which outcome will be determined by the people of the state.

“Atiku is presently preoccupied with other well-meaning Nigerians to help find solutions to the myriad of challenges plaguing our country such as insecurity and economic downturn marked by joblessness and extreme poverty.

Mbaise Community CondemnsViolence in Imo, Sue for Peace Ejiofor Alike The Mbaise USA and Mbaise Leadership Forum (MLF) have expressed concerns over the security situation in their community and Imo State in general.

In a statement issued yesterday, the groups said it was difficult to watch the recent events in Imo

State and expressed sadness by the escalation of violence, the needless loss of lives, and the destruction of property.

The statement was jointly signed by the President of Mbaise USA, Mr. SO Echendu, and the Moderator of Mbaise Leadership Forum (MLF), Mr. Chris Ohanele “We sincerely hope that peace will soon be restored.

All of us are united by our shared purpose to live in peace and security and to go about our legitimate activities without let or hindrance. And we desire to be treated with fairness and justice.

But we know that the constitutional rights of Nigerian citizens cannot be taken for granted. And so, we have the right to demand them.

But on the various possible ways to

achieve the purpose, and to make our just demands, reasonable people can disagree without resorting to violence,” the statement explained.

The groups acknowledged all peaceful initiatives aimed at securing the lives and property of law-abiding citizens whose lives have been significantly impacted by the unrests and general insecurity.

Aisha Buhari Urges Mothers Mambilla: Again, Sunrise Power Files Fresh $400m to Raise Good Children Compensation Claim against FG Chuks Okocha in Abuja

The First Lady, Aisha Buhari, has urged Nigerian mothers to raise children who will grow up to become good citizens.

This was part of her remarks during a courtesy visit by wives of state governors on Monday at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

Special Assistant to the First Lady on Media and Publicity, Aliyu Abdullahi, disclosed this in a statement titled ‘Aisha Buhari charges women over national cohesion.’

Mrs Buhari was quoted as saying that the country needs patriotic, conscientious and productive citizens who will rally around a common vision of a great Nigeria and work together to achieve this vision.

She said, “Women, therefore, have an important

role in promoting national cohesion and development; let us, therefore, play this part and propagate it to other women”.

The statement read, “Mrs. Buhari commended the wives of governors for their humanitarian contributions especially to underprivileged Nigerians and charged them to consolidate their efforts into lasting legacies. She also commendedthemovertheiradvocacy project against gender-based violence.

“Speakingearlier,theChairpersonsof the Northern Governors Wives Forum and the Southern Governors Wives Forum, Falmata Zulum and Betsy Obaseki, respectively took turns to commend the humanitarian and advocacy work of the First Lady through Aisha Buhari Foundation and Future Assured Programme, saying she has been a shining example to them.

Davidson Iriekpen Sunrise Power Transmission Company of Nigeria Limited (SPTCL) has filed a fresh $400 million lawsuit at the ICC International Court of Arbitration, Paris, France, against the Federal Government of Nigeria.

The court operates under the auspices of the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC).

Sunrise Power had, on October 10, 2017, dragged Nigeria to arbitration at the court seeking a $2,354billion award for “breach of contract” in relation to a 2003 agreement to construct the 3,050MW plant in Mambilla, Taraba State, on a “build, operate and transfer” basis.

The company also joined Sinohydro Corporation Limited, the Chinese company currently

handling the project, in the arbitration.

To resolve the issue, the federal government agreed to pay Sunrise Power $200 million “within 14 days” of the execution of the terms of the agreement on January 21, 2020, and also pay a penalty of 10 per cent in case of a default in fulfilling the settlement agreement — in addition to restoring Sunrise as the local content partner for

the $5.8 billion project.

The agreement was signed by the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, Minister of Power, Sale Mamman, on behalf of the federal government while signed as Chairman and CEO of Sunrise Leno Adesanya, as a precondition to withdraw its arbitration against Nigeria at ICC.

Save NDDC, Niger Delta Women Tell Buhari Sunday Okobi Niger Delta women under the umbrella of National Association of Niger Delta Women (NANDW) have called on President Muhammadu Buhari to urgently save the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) from its current state as well as prevent the violence currently

brewing in the region.

The women in a letter sent to President Buhari, which was made available to THISDAY yesterday, lamented that with the present situation at the commission, they are the ones that would be affected by the “recklessness and the near absence of development in the Niger Delta region hence this outcry.”

NANDW in the letter, which was signed by its Chairman, Mrs. Lovette Onos; Mrs Preye Kokumor, Mrs. Nkwor Ubong, Mrs. Julie Achibong, said they had rejoiced when the president ordered a forensic audit into the activities of the NDDC, “considering the rot and corruption in the system,” as many contractors ran back to either commence their

jobs or complete them in the region.

They, however, added that the excitement was cut short “soon after many contractors discovered that it was not a big deal, as the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Chief Godswill Akpabio, was in charge and not the presidency.

Everything went back to square one, unfortunately.”

39

TUESDAY JUNE 8, 2021 ˾ THISDAY

TUESDAYSPORTS

Group Sports Editor Duro Ikhazuagbe Email duro.ikhazuagbe@thisdaylive.com 0811 181 3083 SMS ONLY

INTERNATIONAL FRIENDLY

Ahmed Musa Insists Another Defeat Not An Option against Cameroon Today Duro Ikhazuagbe Super Eagles Captain, Ahmed Musa, has insisted that another defeat of Nigeria is not an option today as they take on the Indomitable Lions of Cameroon in the second leg of a two-match friendly programme in the Austrian capital, Vienna.

“We are not happy to have created so many chances and fail to score. We will approach the game differently tonight,” observed the returnee Kano Pillars poster boy of the friendly scheduled to hold at the Stadion Wiener Neustadt at 4pm Nigerian time. (5pm in Austria).

Musa who did a cameo appearance in the first leg has been included in the starting line up tonight along side first choice goalkeeper, Francis Uzoho.

He however admitted that the Indomitable Lions remain one of Africa’s favourite teams.

“The Cameroonians are big rivals of Nigeria and so we are not happy to have lost the game (1-0) last Friday,” Musa who returned to the Nigerian topflight this season after calling off his deal on mutual agreement in the Saudi Premier League, further observed.

Five-time African champions Cameroon won the first encounter 1-0 at the same venue on Friday, courtesy of a 36th minute strike by Andre Zambo Nguissa. The Super Eagles created chance after chance but failed to get the ball into the net.

Coach Gernot Rohr spoke at length about having to use a rash of new players in the first session, but he is compelled to do even more of that in Tuesday’s encounter following injuries to defenders William Troost-Ekong and Jamilu Collins, and the knock for pacy winger Moses Simon.

Simon appeared to be getting better as of Monday morning, but the smart money is on him starting from the bench.

With the versatile Abdullahi Shehu heaved back to the rear from midfield for which he was initially pencilled down, and the couple of injuries from Friday’s match, Rohr has had to extend invitation to Hungary-based Vincent Onovo to fight for his first cap. Onovo arrived in the team hotel just after dinner on Sunday.

A three-man defenceline is in the offing, with perhaps Chidozie Awaziem, who impressed in that unit on Friday, Abdullahi and Ozornwafor. Another late

NOC Commends Nigeria Muaythai Federation The Nigerian Olympic Committee (NOC) has commended the Nigeria Muaythai Federation for presenting the country in good light in the eyes of the world following the enviable performances of its athletes at the global stage in recent time.

Secretary General of the NOC, Mr. Olabanji Oladapo, while receiving the Muaythai delegation led by its President, Mr. Samuel Nweke, on a courtesy visit to the Olympic body, commended champion Sodiq Mohammed.

Mohammed who is fondly called ‘Target’ won the World Boxing Council Muaythai West African title when he subdued Felix Kotoka to claim the crown.

Prior to this bout, Sodiq had a fighting record of two gold and a silver medal. He was a second-placed winner at

the maiden Africa Muaythai Championships in Casablanca, Morocco and the 2018 Bukom Boxing Arena professional Muaythai Championship in Ghana.

He was also the 2019 champion in Switzerland where he dispatched all opponents to become the Number One. President of the Nigeria Muaythai Federation, Mr. Samuel Nweke, also congratulated Sodiq Mohammed for making Nigeria proud by writing the country’s name in gold The Muaythai federation Boss promised that he will continue to do everything within his powers to ensure that Muaythai Sport grows beyond its present position in the country.

Nweke concluded that the federation’s target is to make Muaythai Sport a household name is Nigeria.

invitee, Anthony Izuchukwu, from Slovakia, is another possibility. A loaded midfield could include Onovo, with Wilfred Ndidi, Oghenekaro Etebo, Samson Tijani and Abraham Marcus also on the roll.

Home-based professional

Anayo Iwuala could start, with Paul Onuachu, Peter Olayinka, Kelechi Iheanacho, Alex Iwobi, Moses Simon, Terem Moffi and Captain Ahmed Musa also to taste action.

After Friday’s game, Rohr told the media: “We missed

seven key players due to injuries, so it was not our best team, but it was good to see other players. We are not happy to lose the game, but we saw some interesting new young players.

Friday’s defeat was Rohr’s first loss to Cameroon in four

matches. The Eagles pounded the Lions 4-0 in Uyo and were held 1-1 in Yaounde in 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifying matches in September 2017, and then edged the Lions 3-2 in the Round of 16 at the Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt two years ago.

Super Eagles players at their last training session yesterday evening ahead of today’s second leg clash with Cameroon’s Indomitable Lions in Vienna, Austria

AITEO CUP

NFF Gives State FAs 10-Day Ultimatum to Submit Champions Femi Solaja In a bid to ensure a smooth run down of the the remaining activities for the year, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), has given all its affiliates a 10-day ultimatum to summit the names of their respective champions ahead of this year’s AITEO FA Cup. The tournament, which is the oldest existing football competition in the country which dated back to 1945 is currently sponsored by AITEO and the national event is expected to commence soon in spite of the current pandemic situation that had made global football

calendar to be doctored as against the regular schedules.

THISDAY checks revealed that the federation had in a letter dated June 4th and signed by the Scribe of the Organising Committee, Wilfred Onaji, directed all the 36 states FAs and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to turn in the names of their respective champions ahead of the draws ceremony and national final scheduled to hold before the end of the month.

A source at the Sunday Dankaro NFF headquarters hinted that the need for prompt action from the State Football Associations is in line with the directive from the Confederation

of African Football (CAF) instructing all the National Federations to submit the names of their respective representatives in the continental club competitions for next year latest by the end of the month.

The letter read; “The Organising Committee of Nigeria Football Federation (NFF )on the directive by CAF all countries should submit by 30th June 2021 names of the teams that will take part in the various CAF Competitions.

“In view of the above, the Committee concluded that all States Football Association should produce one representative latest 14 of June, 2021. A national draw will be held at a date that

will be communicated for the 37 teams that qualify.”

It is however not clear how a clear winner will emerge within such a short period of time without an abridge tournament which the country’s football experienced in the four seasons starting with the last FIFA World Cup year when the football league was inconclusive following the inability of NPFL to finish the league in 2018.

Last year, the season came to an abrupt halt owing to the global Covid-19 pandemic and the determinant factor in choosing the clubs that will represent the country in the two tiers of tournament became a subject of controversy.

Oyo Wins Maiden Babalola Wheelchair Tourney

L-R: GM, Nigeria Olympic Committee, Emmanuel Nwaneri; President, Nigeria Muaythai Federation, Samuel Nweke; The Champion, Sodiq Mohammed; NOC Secretary General, Olabanji Oladapo; and Muaythai Federation Vice President, Jonathan Nnaji, during the Federation’s courtesy visit to the NOC Secretary General...recently

Oyo State defeated Lagos State 43-18 points to emerge winner of the maiden edition of the Otunba Babatunde Babalola Wheelchair Basketball tournament while Edo State overpowered Delta State by 30-02 points to pick the third placed medal.

The two-day tournament which held at the indoor Hall of the National Stadium, Surulere Lagos had six states in attendance.

The teams that won were rewarded with medals, trophies

and cash prices.

Tournament sponsor, Otunba Babatunde Babalola, promised the special athletes more competitions to keep them busy.

Babalola who has been a pillar in Nigeria basketball circle says sponsoring various competitions is not out of abundance but his love of the game.

“I was a player myself during my university days and I still play as veteran.

So I see sponsorship of basketball competitions as

my own way of giving back to the basketball community because I learnt a lot while playing actively for my school, Federal University of Technology, Akure.

“I believe that when one is alive and able he or she should support the society,” he further observed.

Otunba Babalola promised that the OBB Wheelchair Basketball Tournament will be an annual event with a view of making it a national competition.

He, however enjoined the

Nigeria Wheelchair Basketball Federation to do everything within it’s power to ensure regular competition for the special basketball players in Nigeria.

Captain of Team Oyo, William Ukari, applauded Babalola gesture of doing so much for basketball in the country and enjoined other Nigerian to emulate the Ilawe Ekiti-born philanthropy to help raise the stake in sports development and promotion in the country.

Tuesday June 8, 2021

TR

UT H

& RE A S O

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Price: N250

MISSILE SERAP to NBC “Freedom of expression is a fundamental human right. This action by the NBC is yet another nail in the coffin for human rights, media freedom and independent journalism under this government” – Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project describing as unconstitutional, the directive by the NBC to all broadcast stations to suspend the patronage of Twitter.

TUESDAY WITH REUBENABATI abati1990@gmail.com

Nigeria, Twitter and Other Stories “O mo, I see you are still on Twitter. How you dey take do am? Come and teach your brother…”

“Eishhh, Ishhh…Will

you keep quiet?”

“But I noticed you tweeted something not long ago, despite the suspension of Twitter operations in Nigeria” “Hey…hey. My family offend your family?

This man. I commit crime to know you? What is the matter with you? Have you not heard that anybody that uses Twitter in Nigeria is now considered a criminal? You want to send me to jail? Please, please, please.”

“But I saw a tweet that came from you?”

“Hey he. Which kain enemy of a friend, friend of an enemy be this?”

“I just want to know if you have joined VPN. I have been looking for someone to teach me how to by-pass the suspension and join VPN. I hear it is the only option available to users of twitter in Nigeria.”

“I am not saying anything to you. If you want to go to jail, God help you. But don’t come and drag me into it. Where were you when the Federal Ministry of Justice said that any Nigerian that uses twitter should be ready for prosecution?”

“Oh, I get you now. You dey fear? All of you are afraid. I can tell you for free, nobody is going to any jail for using Twitter. Dem just dey Shakara you. If all of us use Twitter, where dem go put us? Dem go jail us tire, hey, hey, hey, dem go jail us tire, how many people dem go kill. This is the time for us to show our power.”

“Dey there. I don’t want to show any power.

In fact, as you see me, I no get any power. I am busy looking for money to send to my children who are in school abroad. Naira is now N720 to the pound sterling, N500 to the dollar. If I get locked up because of Twitter, who will help me? Jack Dorsey is running his own business. If he and the Nigerian government are fighting over a tweet or a video, how does that help the government of my bedroom? If they tell us not to use Twitter, then let us leave them and Twitter to fight themselves. Do I know Jack Dorsey?

Does he know me? Why should I fight the Nigerian Government because of him?. Even the Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria have since complied.

They have since blocked access to Twitter on their networks.”

“Cowards. Those ones are cowards.”

“They have a duty to obey their regulator.

Regulatory risk is the biggest threat to business in Nigeria. Why should telecommunications operators risk their own business to protect Twitter which is another man’s business?”

“Bootlickers. The speed with which they even complied is laughable. They didn’t even try to spare a thought for their customers.

They acted like zombies. Shut down Twitter now! Yes sir! …. I will like to see someone take them to court and sue for damages.”

“I can’t blame them. Even the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) has directed all broadcast stations in Nigeria to get off Twitter.”

“NBC? What has NBC got to do with Twitter? When the Minister kept referring to NBC, I actually thought he was mixing things up. The telecommunications spectrum

Minister of Information and Culture, Lai Mohammed is regulated by the National Communications Commission.”

“Both are involved. It is the case of Okeke and Okereke. NCC controls the network infrastructure. NBC controls the content on the networks. They are both determined to teach Twitter and other social media networks a lesson. I don’t want to be anybody’s scapegoat.”

“You have to stand up for the freedom of expression, and the right of every Nigerian to protest.”

“You are already doing so. Continue to do it on our behalf. No carry me join wahala.”

“What people like you do not know is that the suspension of Twitter operations in Nigeria means nothing. The internet network is an open system. Once you are online, nobody can ban you. It is a world wide web. It is not a Nigerian web. Twitter doesn’t even have a Nigerian office not to talk of operation. When Twitter decided to set up its headquarters in West Africa, they chose Ghana. They avoided Nigeria because as they put it, Nigeria is not a good environment for free speech.”

“Grammar. The way you are carrying on.

When they arrest you, you will go and prove all these points in court.”

“Under which law?”

“The Attorney General of the Federation has told you that when you get to court, they will tell you which law binds both you and Twitter.”

“Who des that? Nobody can be prosecuted for an offence under a non-existent law at the time the alleged felony was committed.

Section 36(12) of the 1999 Constitution. Aoko vs. Fagbemi. A.G. Federation vs Isong.”

“We are both saying the same thing. You don’t need to quote the law here. Go and do that in court. But when they first arrest you to make an example out of you, don’t forget that they will start by keeping you in detention for as long as they wish.”

“No. The maximum time is 48 hours, Okay, may be 72 hours, otherwise that will amount to a violation of my fundamental human rights which we will enforce.”

“I say don’t worry! We are both saying the same thing. Just remember that before you go and create problem for yourself and your family, judicial workers have been on strike for months. They will lock you up and tell the

public that your matter cannot be determined until the courts resume. When the courts return, they will then get some injunctions to keep you for another two weeks. While you are languishing in one dingy cell, the Federal Government of Nigeria and Twitter will settle their matter. Twitter top executives will even pay a courtesy visit to Nigeria. By the time they finally remember you and sign your release warrant, you will be lucky if you don’t get home only to discover that your wife is already pregnant for another man.”

“Don’t insult my wife. I will not take that.”

“Ah sorry oh. Wetin be my own?.”

“Everything you have said is the theology of the coward. We are dealing with tyranny in Nigeria. We are back to the era of military dictatorship. This is a time when real men must stand up and speak truth to power.”

“The thing go shock you, choke you. The President of your own country has told you categorically that those who are trying to pull down the country will receive a shock treatment. He has threatened that he will speak to them in the language that they will understand. And now, he has taken the first step by descending on social platforms, and you are here quoting the law and lawyers, fundamental human rights. Are you aware that the enforcement of those rights will cost you money? And affect your family?

Why not focus on what is important to your life? Twitter? Didn’t we live when there was no Twitter?”

“You don’t get it. This is the problem with many of you. Twitter censored President Donald Trump in 2020. He got angry and issued an Executive Order to restrain big tech.

In January 2021, after the attack on Capitol Hill, Twitter went a step further and banned President Trump for life. Facebook has also banned him. Nothing has happened. Nothing has happened because the institutions in the United States work for the people. But here in Nigeria, the President only needs to sneeze and all departments of state will start running up and down. What we have is the rule of one man, not the rule of the people. Haven’t you seen the way government appointees and institutions have been running up and down to abuse Twitter, and show that they are loyal to the President? What has Twitter done? It has only enforced its community rules?”

“You are comparing apples and oranges. I don’t agree. Twitter Community Rules. Are those rules superior to the corporate existence of Nigeria which the Federal Government of Nigeria says has been constantly violated on Twitter? Shouldn’t international companies and multinationals be subject to the national laws of their host countries? If you were President of Nigeria, you will fold your arms and allow one tech platform to become a forum for promoting propaganda, hate and secession?”

“Just a moment, please. In 2015, and 2019, this same government used Twitter and Facebook and WhatsApp to campaign for elections and promote propaganda, and demonise the opposition. Why are they now protesting? They don’t want to hear feedback?

The truth hurts?”

“What truth?”

“The truth that Nigeria is not working and government has failed. The truth that

Nigerian youths are angry. The truth that there is violence and insecurity in the land.

Unemployment is 33.3%. Stagflation. Hunger.

Banditry. Arson. Terrorism. Ethnic violence. A near-complete return to the state of nature.”

“Clap for yourself. Just listen to yourself.

See how you are de-marketing Nigeria, your own dear native land.”

“No. I am not a native. In fact, I am so angry, I would prefer to relocate to the United Africans Republic (UAR) where I can tweet and enjoy my human rights.”

“When you get to that UAR in your head, may be Twitter won’t work there or it may get suspended, banned or abolished. I put it to you that one of the big challenges we face in the world today is the tyranny of big tech companies. There are countries that have refused to cede their sovereignty to the supremacy of technology. Nigeria has not done anything extra-ordinary. Twitter has been either banned or suspended in China. North Korea, Egypt, in 2011, during the Arab Spring protests, Turkey, Iran, Uganda, Cuba, Turkmenistan, Zimbabwe, Cameroon, Pakistan.”

“Look at the countries you are comparing Nigeria with. Dictatorship. Tyranny. I just hope that one day, the Nigerian Government will not wake up and we will be told that oxygen has been banned because it poses a threat to the Buhari administration.”

“Excuse me. That is hate speech!”

“I will rather say fair comment because the way we are now carrying on, this government will blame anything and ban anything. The people who are considered enemies of government are the ones asking for justice and equity, and human rights.

People with access to platforms. Protesters.

Writers. Opinion leaders. I really won’t be surprised if the Nigerian government wakes up one morning and decides to ban access to oxygen in certain parts of the country.”

“I don’t have to argue with you. I think it is good that you and people who think like you understand the point that after God, it is Government. If you disturb government, government will disturb you. And if you ask me, I actually think that some people don’t deserve to enjoy Nigerian oxygen and work against the same country.”

“You will support that oxygen should be banned in Nigeria?”

“Why should you enjoy Nigerian oxygen if you don’t believe in Nigeria? We are in the age of technology. Go and ask Twitter to give you oxygen.”

“Before it gets to that stage, some of us will speak up. We will stand up. We will remind people like you that on June 12 democracy we stand. We will go to the streets and say No. On June 12, we will shout on top of our voices. We will write poetry on the streets of Nigeria.”

“You will go and confront people who have told you that you will be taught the language that you will understand. And that you will be shocked? As a Christian, I don’t encourage people to commit suicide. You know I like you, even if I don’t agree with most of the things you say.”

“I am not afraid to be part of the Nigerian Revolution”

Continued on page 5 Printed and Published in Lagos by THISDAY Newspapers Limited. Lagos: 35 Creek Road, Apapa, Lagos. Abuja: Plot 1, Sector Centre B, Jabi Business District, Solomon Lar Way, Jabi North East, Abuja .

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