TUESDAY 18TH JANUARY 2022

THISDAY Reorganises Editorial Board, Appoints Adio, Jega Contributing Editors Nwabuiku, Kakanda, Adamolekun, others join Immediate past Executive Secretary of the Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI), Mr Waziri Adio and former Editor of Daily Trust, Mr Mahmud Jega have joined ARISE and THISDAY as contributing editors.

They will also serve as members of the Editorial Board that now includes Mr Paul Nwabuiku, Mr Sonny Aragba-Akpore, Ms Yemi Adamolekun, Mr Gimba Kakanda and Ms Aisha Shuaibu.

Meanwhile, Dr Chidi Amuta

and Dr Okey Ikechukwu remain members of the Editorial Board chaired by Olusegun Adeniyi.

In a statement signed by THISDAY Managing Director, Continued on page 10

Adio

Shuaibu

Jega

Oil Price Soars to Seven-year High, Surges Near $87pb... Page 5 Tuesday 18 January, 2022 Vol 26. No 9779. Price: N250

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PDP Govs Want National Assembly to Quickly Rework Electoral Bill and Return for Assent Tell Nigerians to massively register with INEC Lament rising insecurity Chuks Okocha in Abuja and Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt Governors elected on the platform of the main Peoples Democratic

Party (PDP), yesterday, urged the National Assembly to rework the electoral bill, which had been vetoed by President Muhammadu Buhari, and return

it to the president for his assent.

The PDP governors lamented the growing insecurity in Nigeria, and called on all citizens of voting age, who were yet to register in

the on-going continuous voter registration by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), to quickly do so.

A communiqué signed by 10

PDP governors and read by the chairman of the party’s governors’ forum, Aminu Tambuwal, after their meeting in Port Harcourt, said, "The PDP governors

requested the National Assembly to quickly conclude deliberations on the Electoral Act Amendment Continued on page 10

Matawalle: Banditry Not Ending in Zamfara Any Time Soon Alleges insiders sabotaged negotiation with criminals Promises to name terrorism collaborators, puts recent casualties at 58 Terrorists have dislodged many villagers in Katsina, says Masari See story on Page 10

“It is time” - Nigerians call on Osinbajo to run for President.

RONCHESS BOARD RESTRUCTURES...

L-R: Chairman of the board, Mr. Adeolu Adeboye; Vice Chairman, Captain Niyi Ogunnowo and Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Jackson Ukuevo, following the restructuring of the board of the company...recently

The New Tribe

NSSF Partners NPHCDA to Vaccinate 1.6 Million Persons in Three Months... Page 6

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Group News Editor: Goddy Egene Email: Goddy.egene@thisdaylive.com, 0803 350 6821, 0809 7777 322, 0807 401 0580

NEWS

WE WANT TO RESCUE NIGERIA...

L-R: Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde; Enugu State Governor, Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi; Akwa Ibom State Governor, Udom Emmanuel; Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom; Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike; Sokoto State Governor, Rt. Hon. Aminu Tambuwal; Taraba State Governor, Darius Dickson Ishaku; Adamawa State Governor, Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri; Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed; Delta State Governor, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa; and Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, at the PDP Governors’ Forum meeting in Port Harcourt, Rivers State...yesterday

Oil Price Soars to Seven-year High, Surges Near $87pb Supply constraint, fading COVID-19 fears drive up prices Nigeria leads OPEC’s underperformance

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

Oil prices traded within striking distance of its seven-year high at $86.71 per barrel yesterday on continuing supply constraints and waning fears among heavy fuel users of another pandemicinduced slowdown.

In the last two weeks, Brent, Nigeria’s benchmark, has climbed more than 10 per cent to as much as $86.71 a barrel, exceeding last October’s high, to levels not seen

since 2014 when oil topped $115.

On the other hand, the United States oil marker, the West Texas Intermediate (WTI) has risen more than 12 per cent since the start of the year, to hit a high of $84.78, just under last year’s peak.

Nevertheless, the rising oil prices is more of bad news for Nigeria which should ordinarily earn more foreign exchange from the sale of crude, but now has to deal with paying more for petrol subsidy which

had been described as a drain on its economy because there’s a positive relationship between the international prices of the commodity and how much Nigerians get the product at the pump.

In the meantime, some analysts are forecasting that the crude benchmarks would trade at more than $100 a barrel again this year unless there is a significant increase in supply.

The Organisation of Petroleum

Exporting Countries (OPEC) and its allies had stuck to a plan agreed in July last year to replace output cut at the start of the pandemic gradually, by just 400,000 barrels a day each month, despite calls by major crude oil consuming nations like the United States to increase production. Generally, the strategy has helped oil prices move higher since August, and to recover quickly after the rapid spread of the Omicron coronavirus

Higher Food, Commodity Prices Push Inflation to 15.63% in December James Emejo in Abuja

After eight months of consecutive decline, the Consumer Price Index (CPI) which measures the level of inflation rose to 15.63 per cent year on year in December compared to 15.40 per cent in the preceding month, the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), disclosed yesterday.

The headline index had maintained steady decline from April 2021 to November 2021, before returning to the upward trajectory in December.

Year-on-year, the composite food sub-index stood at 17.37 per cent compared to 19.56 per cent in December, 2020.

According to the statistical agency, the rise in the food subindex was caused by increases in prices of bread and cereals, food product not elsewhere classified (n.e.c), meat, fish, potatoes, yam and other tuber, soft drinks and fruit.

On month-on-month basis, the food index increased to 2.19 per cent from 1.07 per cent in November.

On the other hand, core inflation which excludes the prices of volatile agricultural

produce increased to 13.87 per cent compared to 11.37 per cent in the preceding month.

Inflation stood at 18.12 per cent in April, 17.93 in May, 17.75 per cent June, 17.38 per cent in July, 17.01 in August, 16.63 per cent in September, 15.99 in October and 15.40 per cent in November.

According to the CPI figures for December, the 0.23 per cent increase was occasioned by the increase in prices of goods and services as a result of increase in their demand during the month under review, being a festive season.

Month-on-month basis, the headline index increased by 1.82 per cent in December which is 0.74 per cent higher than the 1.08 per cent recorded in the preceding month.

However, the urban inflation rate stood at 16.17 per cent (yearon-year) compared to 16.33 per cent recorded in December 2020, while the rural index moderated to 15.11 per cent in December from 15.20 per cent 2020.

On a month-on-month basis, the urban index rose to 1.87 per cent compared to 1.12 per cent, while the rural index also rose to 1.77 per from 1.04 per cent.

The NBS noted that, "The change in the declining trend for about eight months might have been caused by the increase in prices of goods and services as a result of increase in their demand during the month under review, being a festive season."

Commenting on the latest inflation, the Economist/CEO, Centre for the Promotion of Private Enterprise (CPPE), Dr. Muda Yusuf, noted that the surge in demand during the December festivities, “must have played a role in the marginal spike and reversal of the deceleration trend in headline inflation.”

Yusuf, who is the immediate past Director General of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry, added: “Meanwhile, inflationary pressures remain a significant macroeconomic risk in the Nigerian economy. It is a major concern to both businesses and the citizens.”

While stressing that the high inflationary pressures remain a major concern to stakeholders in the Nigeria economy, he listed some of its implications to include escalation of production and operating costs for businesses, leading to

erosion of profit margins, drop in sales, decline in turnover and weak manufacturing capacity utilisation.

According to Yusuf, other implications are: “high food prices which impacts adversely on citizens’ welfare and aggravates poverty; weak purchasing power which poses significant risk to business sustainability and price volatility which undermines investors’ confidence.”

In order to tame the current inflationary pressure, Yusuf urged the government need to: “Reform the foreign exchange market to stabilise the exchange rate and reduce volatility; address forex liquidity issues through appropriate policy measures; address the security concerns causing disruption to agricultural activities.

“Address productivity issues in the real sector of the economy; address the challenge of high transportation cost; reduce fiscal deficit financing by the CBN to minimise incidence of high-powered money in the economy, and manage climate change consequences to reduce flooding and desertification.”

variant in November.

However, even at that, not all members of the OPEC+ group, including Nigeria have been able to hit their monthly targets, meaning the cartel has been increasing output by slightly less than its monthly target.

THISDAY recently reported that Nigeria’s continuing inability to pump enough crude oil, in part, resulted in the overall failure of OPEC to meet its target production for last month.

Whereas the target for Nigeria was 1.67 million barrels per day for last month, it only managed to produce 1.44 million barrels per day in December and 1.49 million barrels the previous month, using secondary sources.

The development has widened the gap between OPEC+ crude oil quotas and production as the group's steady plan to loosen its pandemic cuts, once again outpaced actual output gains.

Nigeria has been struggling for months with meeting the quota allocated to it by OPEC due to ageing infrastructure as a result of years of under-investment in the upstream of the oil and gas sector.

Added to these are vandalism and sabotage, technical issues as well as difficulties with restarting oil wells the country shut down last year in the heat of the Covid-19 pandemic.

But despite the limitation, the largest individual increase was in West Africa, where Angola boosted output by 90,000 bpd to 1.2 million bpd. Although this was the highest monthly level of 2021, Angola was still 190,000 bpd below its December quota.

West Africa also saw the biggest individual decline last month, with Nigerian output tumbling and defying state-owned Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) Group Managing Director, Mallam Mele Kyari's forecast that the country would reach its target by the end of last year.

On December 22, the National

Assembly approved a N17.126 trillion ($38 billion) budget for 2022, anchored on an oil price benchmark of $62 per barrel.

The approved oil price assumption was higher than the $57 per barrel price that President Muhammadu Buhari had proposed to the parliament on October 7, and also higher than the oil price benchmark of $40 per barrel adopted by the government for the 2021 budget.

In addition, Nigeria retained the oil production target of 1.88 million bpd, including condensate production of between 300,000-400,000 bpd, for the purpose of its revenue calculation in 2022.

This is as compared to the output target of 1.86 million bpd the government had set for the 2021 fiscal year.

In addition, frantic oil buying, driven by supply outages and signs the Omicron variant of COVID-19 will not be as disruptive as feared for fuel demand, has pushed some crude grades to multi-year highs, suggesting the rally in Brent futures could be sustained a while longer.

A Reuters report quoted unnamed sources yesterday as saying that China plans to release oil reserves around the Lunar New Year holidays between January 31 and February 6 as part of a plan coordinated by the United States with other major consumers to reduce global prices.

Saudi Energy Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman said on Monday it is the prerogative of the US government whether to release supply from the strategic petroleum reserves.

Kyari said recently that if the prices of oil rise too quickly and too high, it would be bad for Nigeria as its customers may likely look for alternatives to the commodity.

Meanwhile, oil analysts have raised their oil price forecasts for the first quarter of 2022, expecting demand to outpace supply.

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NEWS

WE HAVE RECONCILED...

L-R: Former Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives, Sir Austin Opara; Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri; former Managing Director, Niger Delta Development Commission and 2019 Peoples Democratic Party governorship aspirant in the state, Chief Ndutimi Alaibe; former Minister of Transport, Dr. Abiye Sekibo and Koku Imananagha when Alaibe visited the governor at his official residence in Government House, Yenagoa...on Sunday

NSSF Partners NPHCDA to Vaccinate 1.6 Million Persons in Three Months Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja

The Nigeria Solidarity Support Fund (NSSF) said its partnership with the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) has resulted in the vaccination of 1,651,278 Nigerians across six states of the country as at last December.

The states are Adamawa, Edo, Imo, Katsina, Nasarawa, and Ogun.

The NSSF is governed by a statutory board of experienced and reputable members with Mr. Tunde Folawiyo as Board Chairman; Mr. Aigboje Aig-

Imoukhuede (member); Mr. Uche Orji (Member), and Mrs. Stella Ojekwe-Onyejeli (Member).

The group had reached an agreement in September 2021 to collaborate with the NPHCDA to support the vaccination of one million Nigerians across six states of the federation.

In a statement yesterday, the NSSF stated that it was, "pleased to announce that as of December 2021, the campaign has resulted in the vaccination of 1,651,278 Nigerians, exceeding our goal by over 60 percent."

It disclosed that the success, “of our vaccination drive shows

Buhari Celebrates Anyaoku, Ohiwerei on their Birthdays Deji Elumoye in Abuja President Muhammadu Buhari has greeted the former Secretary General of the Commonwealth, Chief Emeka Anyaoku, as he marks his 89th birthday today.

Buhari also felicitated with former Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of Nigerian Breweries Plc, Elder Felix Ohiwerei, as he marks his 85th birthday same day.

Commenting on Anyaoku, the president, according to a statement yesterday, by his Media Adviser, Femi Adesina, joined family and friends to celebrate with the diplomat, whose contributions to Nigeria and the international comity will continue to stand out.

Buhari affirmed that the international diplomat, who started as a Foreign Service Officer, has consistently followed and projected the wellbeing of Nigeria, working assiduously to build his local community and staying vocal in counselling leaders on way forward.

The president extolled his foresight, courage and diligence in pursuing his vision for a more just and peaceful world and prayed that the Almighty God will continue to strengthen the renowned international diplomat and his family.

For Ohiwerei, the president, also in a release issued by Adesina, congratulated him for his historic service in the corporate world, and, now, full dedication to working for God and growth of the church.

The president noted the contributions of the corporate leader, administrator and renowned boardroom guru, to the development of the country, working variously with Unilever, London, UAC Foods, and Virgin Nigeria and chairing some public institutions.

Buhari said he believed that Ohewerei's visionary leadership style, and humble beginnings as a teacher, played a major role in his rise on the corporate ladder, utilising his experience in managing people and resources to innovatively set targets and get results.

He praised his interest in raising leaders in the country, accepting to serve as Chairman, Friendship Bible Fellowship, National Director, Full Gospel Businessmen Fellowship International, Pro Chancellor/Chairman of Council, University of Ibadan and Chairman, Board of Trustees of Redeemer’s University.

Buhari also prayed for the good health of former Chairman of the Nigerian Breweries Plc, and welfare of his family.

what is possible through collaboration and partnership to overcome vaccine hesitancy.”

It added that with funding from the NSSF, the NPHCDA was able to mobilise over 1000 qualified health workers to move into the field visiting each ward, council, and local government area in the six states.

"Our vaccination teams operate from markets, places of worship, schools. The use of town criers and similar grass roots tactics are also deployed to reach the widest audience

possible.

"So far, the campaign has reached over 12 million Nigerians have been better informed about the need to be vaccinated against the Covid-19 virus. The NSSF will continue to provide funding and other support to the NPHCDA in order to ensure millions more Nigerians are vaccinated as soon as possible," it said.

The NSSF said the success made in the vaccination drive would not have been possible without the support of donor

partners, the NSSF Team and most importantly, the health workers in the field who are implementing the vaccination campaign.

The NSSF is a private-sector led institution born out of a partnership between the Global Citizen (GC) and the Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA) to complement efforts in combating the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic through fund raising to address three core COVID-19 response areas: Supporting the most vulnerable,

strengthening health care systems and re-skilling of Nigerian youth for The New Nigeria.

In the statement, the NSSF further stated that it believed that, "everyone should have access to quality and affordable healthcare services when they need it, young Nigerians should be enabled with opportunities for self-empowerment and wellskilled for a post-COVID era and that the most vulnerable, disadvantaged, and marginalised groups in Nigeria should not be left behind.”

COVID-19: FCTA Locks Out Unvaccinated Staff Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja

Many unvaccinated workers were yesterday barred from the premises of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) following the enforcement of the COVID-19 vaccination mandate.

The enforcement was total in all the parastatals, including the Federal Capital Development Agency (FCDA), the Abuja Environmental Protection Board (AEPB), Social Development Secretariat, Abuja Metropolitan Management Council, FCT Universal Basic Education Board and the FCT Water Board.

Others included the Secondary Education Board, FCT Primary Health Care Board, Public Health Department, Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency and FCT Area Council Staff Pension Board.

The enforcement team led by the Senior Special Assistant on Monitoring, Inspection and Enforcement to FCT Minister, Ikharo Attah barricaded all the entrances to the secretariat as early as 7:00am, turning back staff and visitors that could not provide evidence of having received the two jabs of the vaccine or recent PCR negative test result in the

last 72 hours.

He said while no staff or visitors were being forced to take the vaccines, every individual must present either a vaccination card or a negative COVID-19 test result to gain access to the premises in the light of the surge in cases of Omicron variant.

He noted the administration gave the staff enough time to choose between any of the options approved to avoid the agony of being turned back at the gate.

“We have given a full week for advocacy and we got a van that went round announcing it.

Circulars were also circulated in line with the one earlier issued out by the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, that staff who are not vaccinated should be vaccinated,” he added.

The team also refused to allow in workers who presented photocopies of vaccine cards or that had them saved on their mobile phone.

As a result of the enforcement, many workers hurriedly opted to receive the vaccines in order to gain access to their offices and to mitigate facing sanctions from the authority.

NigComSat Set to Launch Another Satellite Oghenevwede Ohwovoriole in Abuja The federal government has expressed its resolve to launch another satellite through the Nigerian Communications Satellite (NigComSat) before the end of the year.

The Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Isa Pantami stated this while briefing journalists yesterday, during a tour of facilities at the agency's base in Abuja.

He said: "That approval of federal government which I have secured has been forwarded to NigComSat. Now, it is on the table of NigComSat to answer that question. I want to make sure that as I said that 2022 is NigComSat

year along with NIPOST. I want to make sure that all work in progress must be completed by 2022.

"As I said earlier ,2022 has been dedicated to NigComSat and NIPOST, and I want to do the best I can to improve what we have achieved in the previous years.

"I recently approved two subsidiaries of NigComSat and I am here to supervise what they have been doing, and I discovered some areas where we need to work to improve their performance significantly."

He also stated that for the agency not to be considered for privatisation again, it must provide quality service and generate good revenue.

He added: "Before I was made the Director General, National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), there was the Oronsaye report which recommended for the scrapping of NITDA. But when I was able to turn things around from generation of N7 billion to N19 billion in a year, no one talks about scrapping NITDA again.

"So if you are able to turn things around, render quality service and generate income, no one will talk of privatising your company again."

In her remarks, the Director General, NigComSat, Abimbola Alike appreciated the minister for his immense support.

Alike stated: "We all know what our budget used to be N200

million-N300m, for a company that needs capital after overhead.

"He stood for us and said there must be something good in NigComSat because he is a man who believes that we can actually turn around NigComSat." She assured Pantami of the agency's readiness to deliver quality service and generate revenue to justify his efforts at revitalising the agency.

According to her, this year, Nigerians would see new significant changes that will make them know that NigComSat is a new company.

She stressed that Pantami was the first minister to add NigComSat to the National Broadband Plan (NBP).

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NEWS

BUNI IN THE VILLA...

President Muhammadu Buhari (left), welcoming the APC Caretaker Committee and Extraordinary Convention Chairman and Governor of Yobe State, Mai Mala Buni, to the State House, Abuja…yesterday

ICRC: Paid Parking at MMIA Not at Owners’ Risk James Emejo in Abuja The acting Director General, Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC), Mr. Michael Ohiani has clarified that cars parked at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos, are not at owners’ risk, especially if the parking services are provided by the concessionaire at a fee.

The airport facility is currently managed by Seymour Aviation Limited, the concessionaire.

Ohiani, had led the management of the commission on an on-thespot assessment of the parking facility at the airport, following media reports over safety concerns on the multi-level car park at the busy Lagos airport.

Reports recently alleged that the facility had become, "den of thieves" following three alleged incidences that occurred late in December.

The ICRC which has a responsibility to ensure regulatory compliance in all Public Private Partnership (PPP) transactions, had embarked on the assessment tour for a first-hand evaluation of the situations as well as to seek solutions where necessary.

Ohiani, stressed that because car parking service was the primary amenity being provided by the managers at a fee, vehicles could not be said to be parked at owners’ risk’ as claimed by the service provider.

In a statement issued by ICRC spokesman, Manji Yarling, he added: "If I park my car it is not at my own risk, provided I pay – if I come here and I park and I do not pay, it is a different ball game.

I am very happy though to know that you have an active insurance policy.”

It was however, gathered that in the lone incident reported, the victim, whose Lexus GX 460 was vandalised, had been compensated

while the missing vehicle accessories were replaced.

The ICRC DG, also seized the opportunity to advice the concessionaire on a new feature in car parking service model where car owners upon making payment, are allotted specific slots on a particular floor.

According to him, "If slot A is given to you and that particular slot has a security issue, it is easier to determine that a particular vehicle in slot A was supposed to park there because your contact number and details are already captured.

“We can use that with appropriate authority where registrations are done to be able to trace criminals.

But when you allow people to park at their own discretion, it becomes difficult to trace when something happens.

“Going forward I think those are the measures you might like to employ. It also enables you to manage the facility because you will be able to know at a particular time how many slots are taken and how many are available."

However, Managing Director, Federal Airport Authority of

Nigeria (FAAN), Capt. Rabiu Hamisu Yadudu, told the visiting team that some of the news reports peddled about the airport were not true reflection of the situation on ground.

He said following the single incidence that occurred, an emergency meeting was summoned whereby certain decisions were reached to deter future occurrence.

Represented by FAAN Director, Commercial and Business Development, Sadiku Rafindadi, the MD also listed some of the recommendations from the

The federal government yesterday said it was set to provide more adequate and affordable housing for about 2, 000 families in Abuja.

The Minister of State for Works and Housing, Mu’azu Sambo, made the disclosure during an inspection of the Affordable Housing and Management Development Initiative in Gwagwalada, Abuja.

He said: “It is a fundamental priority of President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration to provide decent and affordable houses for

was a subsisting insurance policy that covered all those who use the car park, reiterating that the victim of the reported incident had already been compensated and the vandalised vehicle parts replaced.

He said the car park focuses mainly on safety, security and revenue, pointing out that if safety and security are not met, then revenue will not be taken.

He commended the ICRC for the good work being done adding that if sustained, many Nigerians will reap the benefits.

P&ID Scam: Ex-Director, Grace Taiga, Remanded in Prison Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja Justice Obiora Egwuatu of the Federal High Court, Abuja, yesterday remanded Grace Taiga, a former Director of Legal at the Ministry of Petroleum Resources, in prison custody pending perfection of her bail conditions.

The defendant, who is facing prosecution by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for allegedly receiving bribes to facilitate the award of contract in the infamous Process & Industrial Development Limited (P&ID) scam, failed to provide a surety after she was granted bail by the court in October, 2021.

A statement issued by the EFCC stated that at the resumed sitting, prosecuting counsel, Abba Muhammed informed the court that the prosecution has a new charge which had been served on the defendant, “with additional proof of evidence.

"The only difference is that we are dropping two counts, eight and nine. It is a new charge to replace the old one. It is a reduction from nine counts to seven counts.”

The amended charge has the defendant’s daughter, Enameg Vera

Moses Taiga, listed as an accused, who allegedly received the sum of $9,969.5 paid by Kristholm Limited, a company controlled by the owners and promoters of P& ID, through her HSBC bank account on behalf of the 1st defendant.

The former charge was withdrawn and replaced by the new one.

One of the counts in the amended read: “That you Grace Taiga, Enameg Vera Moses Taiga(at large), Brendan Cahill(at large), Michael Qiunn(Deceased) on or about the 30th of January, 2012, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court did conspire to commit an offence to wit, money laundering by disguising the origin of the sum of Five Thousand United States of America Dollars(USD $5,000) paid by Kristholm Limited- a company controlled by the owners and promoters of Process & Industrial Development Limited, P&ID- into the HSBC bank account of Enameg Vera Moses Taiga domiciled at No.8.

Canada Square, London branch of HSBC which money you reasonably ought to have known forms part of the proceeds of unlawful

act, to wit, bribery and thereby committed and offence contrary to section 18(a) and punishable under section 15(2)(a) and (3) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2011(as amended)”.

Another count read, “That you Grace Taiga, whilst being the Director of Legal at Ministry of Petroleum Resources, on or about the 30th of December, 2009, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court did commit an offence to wit, using the sum of $4969.5 paid by Marshpearl Limited- a company controlled by the owners and promoters of Process & Industrial Development Limited (P&ID)- into the HSBC bank account of Enameg Vera Moses Taiga domiciled at No.8 Canada Square, London branch of HSBC which money you reasonably ought to have known forms part of the proceeds of unlawful act, to wit, bribery and thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under section 15(2)(d) and (3) of the Money Laundering(Prohibition Act, 2011 (as amended)”.

The defendant pleaded, “not guilty” when the charges were read to her. Muhammed, also told the court that the prosecution has

FG to Provide 2,000 Additional Affordable Housing Units in Abuja Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

meeting to beef up security at the airport to include the expansion of CCTV coverage at the car park, connection of the camera feeds to the MMA Terminal 2 CCTV network and improvement of physical surveillance.

Other measures included intelligence sharing with airport security, prompt reportage of incidences at the car park, addressing other pending cases of vehicle vandalism among others.

Also, the Managing Director, Seymour Aviation Limited, Mr. Francis Ikenga, said that there

the teeming masses of Nigerians especially against the backdrop of rural-urban migration."

Sambo pointed out that Nigeria’s population, which is about 200 million, had been projected to hit 400 million by 2050, explaining that the huge population would need affordable houses to live in.

“It may interest you to know that out of the 200 million Nigerians we have today, it is estimated that about half of that figure is living in the urban centres.

"It is the responsibility of any government, most especially the

President Muhammadu Buhari’s led administration to make sure that affordable houses are provided for them,” he added.

He said that his decision to visit the project in his first outing as a minister was deliberate, stressing that if the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) gets it right, it would be a template that would be replicated all over the country.

“And our drive is to see how we can get it at the lowest cost possible,” he added.

The Head of Public Private Partnership of the ministry, Abimbola Asein, said the

affordable housing initiative was sitting on 113 hectares of land to ensure shelter for Nigerians, especially the low and middle income earners.

Asein said the initiative was a public, private partnership programme to provide affordable houses for Nigerians.

“The first phase of the project which commenced in December 2021 is to put the infrastructure , roads and drainages in place which is about 25 per cent completed and we hope that when the houses are provided, they will be affordable to all Nigerians,” Asein stated.

a witness in court and was ready to proceed with the trial.

“We have served the defendant the proof of evidence and we are ready, subject to the convenience of the court,” he said.

However, defence counsel, Ola Olanipekun, confirmed that they were served the second additional proof of evidence but prayed the court for an adjournment to enable him study the proof and respond.

At this stage, the judge asked the defendant if had perfected her bail conditions and the defense counsel responded that she was unable to perfect it.

Consequently, the judge remanded the defendant in the custody of the Correctional Service pending the perfection of the bail condition and adjourned the matter till February 3, 2022 for continuation of hearing.

CCECC Promises Partnership in Nigeria’s Economic Recovery Drive Michael Olugbode in Abuja The Chinese construction giant, the China Civil Engineering Construction Company (CCECC) Nigeria Limited has promised to execute corporate social responsibility (CSR) projects that would concretely advance Nigeria’s economic recovery and growth.

The company in its CSR 2021 Report titled: “Bolstering Confidence and Jointly Overcoming Difficulties,” co-signed by Chairman and Managing Director of CCECC Nigeria Limited, Messrs Jiang Yigao and Zhang Zhinchen respectively, pledged and reiterated its commitment to, “contributing to a better Nigeria.”

The 90-page document illustrated the trajectories of the multinational corporation with services covering 108 countries and regions of the world and whose subsidiary in Nigeria was established in 1996.

The CCECC had obtained Grade A qualifications for construction projects in Nigeria. The company has launched businesses in 29 out of 36 states across Nigeria covering fields as general contracting, project contracting, project management and consulting services for railways, highways, bridges, municipal projects, housing and water projects respectively.

“With Nigeria as a major partner of the China’s initiated framework of International Cooperation Belt and Road Initiatives (BRI), featuring Infrastructure connectivity, the CCECC Nigeria Ltd has been in the frontline of executing key projects in Nigeria that give practical expression to The Belt and Road cooperation.

“Beyond construction of critical Infrastructure projects, CCECC also facilitate projects that enhance local capacity building and industrialisation.

“The construction of the University of Transportation in Daura, Katsina State, the first of its kind in Africa and the Kajola Rail wagon Assembly plants in Oyo State built in line with Chinese standard, the first in West Africa, are the company’s commitment to executing CSR that would concretely advance the course of Nigeria’s economic recovery and sustainable growth in the near and long run.

“Other key milestones of the company in executing its corporate social responsibility includes its staunch efforts in the containment and control of the COVID-19 pandemic, through donation of medical equipment like ventilators and oxygen generators, face masks, sets of protective clothing and other protective gears,” it added.

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TEN MATAWALLE: BANDITRY NOT ENDING IN ZAMFARA ANY TIME SOON Deji Elumoye in Abuja and Francis Sardauna in Katsina Zamfara State Governor Bello Matawalle, yesterday, gave a gloomy forecast about Nigeria’s fight against banditry and terrorism, saying there is no indication that the hot weather of killing and plundering is nearing an end.

Matawalle alleged that a secret backchannel peace negotiation with bandits broke down due to insider sabotage against his government.

The governor spoke at State House, Abuja, while addressing newsmen after a closed-door meeting with President Muhammadu Buhari.

Matawalle vowed to reveal the identities of those collaborating with terrorists to wreak havoc on Zamfara and other states. He put the casualty figure from the recent attacks in some parts of his state at 58, and not 200, as earlier reported.

In a related development, Katsina State Governor Aminu Masari said the persistent attacks on farming communities in the state by terrorists had led to the forceful eviction of many villagers. Masari stated this in Katsina, the state capital, when he received a national leader of All Progressives Congress (APC), Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, at Government House. Tinubu was in the state on a condolence visit over the demise of the state Commissioner for Science, Technology and Innovations, Dr. Rabe Nasir.

Matawalle lamented that terrorism in his state was not likely to end soon because of those behind it.

The governor stated, “With the kind of people we have in Zamfara State, I don't think this issue of banditry will end

very soon because, already, some people are behind it.

Some people are using it. And all they need is, at least, to show Nigerians that both the federal and Zamfara State governments are not serious on the issue of insecurity, despite the fact that some of them are involved in the crisis of this insecurity. But we are doing our best.”

He, however, said despite the activities of the terrorism sponsors, there would be a marked improvement in the security situation in the state this week.

The governor said Buhari had expressed the determination to strengthen security, explaining that this would bring changes in the situation.

On what could be done to bring a permanent solution to the insecurity in Zamfara, Matawalle declared, “When I assumed duty as governor, I used so many options to bring this insecurity to a minimal level.

First of all, I initiated dialogue and reconciliation between the herders and farmers and during that dialogue, we spent more than nine months without any crisis in Zamfara State. It worked.

“But, unfortunately, people used politics, because they have collaborators, of course. So, they went back to those bandits, telling them that the government is not serious about this dialogue; that we did not give them anything.

So, the bandits decided to go back to their normal business.

“That's why I backed out from the reconciliation programme.

But, definitely, it worked for over nine months. But because this is something that I inherited, that has been going on for almost eight years, and you don’t expect it to end within just two years of my administration, because

it is supposed to be an on-going process.

“So, after I realised that some of them had backed out of this dialogue, I cut off the programme. I then initiated the cutting off of communications and some logistics that used to go to the bandits from August 2021 to December 2021. And it worked, too.

“But sometimes those collaborators, who are usually happy with what is happening, who are even jubilating if people are being killed, went back and started again, saying that the government is not serious and instigating some of the public.

In fact, they even dragged me to court.”

Matawalle, who said he came to the villa to brief Buhari on the latest attacks by bandits in the state, disputed the casualty figures earlier put out in news reports. He said, "I briefed Mr. President on what happened and the next action that we should take and the government is doing everything possible to make sure that we bring sanity in state.

“Ahamdullahi, all the action that we have taken, we have recorded successes within just three days. And you will bear me witness that after that attack, there has not been any report of any banditry activity in the state up till today.”

Matawalle added, “I have already cleared the air about the figures, because I have seen some reporting that 200 people, 300 people, 500 people were killed.

But I went to the community myself, and the security agencies.

“First, we went to Bungudu and we confirmed from the Emir that it was only 36 people that have been killed and two communities were razed by these

bandits. And when we went to Anka, we met the Emir, and at the time we met him, he gave us a list of 22 people that have been killed, making the total number of 58 people killed.

“But as I've been saying, there are some political bandits, who have been spreading lies, rumours so that they can achieve some political gain. But actually it is just 58 people that have just been killed. But some people will just go to social media and be writing some figures and I have informed Mr. President of some people, who think that with this insecurity, they can achieve something out of it. I wonder how people will just be writing figures without having genuine information from those communities. Someone will just call media personnel and tell them so and so number of people have been killed in so and so place. Some people even swear with the Holy Koran that thousands of people had been been killed, which is grossly misleading. But we know all those kind of people do not want peace in the nation, but God will prevail Inshallah.”

The governor reiterated that his government was investigating those, who might be collaborating with terrorists in the state.

He said, “Like I said, we are still investigating those that are involved in these activities and we will make the public know after the confirmation of the reality of all the information that we have at hand, because we are working to make sure that all those, who have a hand in this insecurity must be brought to justice.

“Once the investigation is concluded, we will inform the public of the result of the

THISDAY REORGANISES EDITORIAL BOARD, APPOINTS ADIO, JEGA CONTRIBUTING EDITORS

Nwabuiku

Aragba-Akpore

Adamolekun

Kakanda

Mr Eniola Bello, rejuvenating the Editorial Board is an ongoing process that will bring onboard respected professionals with requisite experience and exposure in different fields. “The new members, with fresh ideas and energy, are to bring robust engagements to discussions of the Board on issues that would shape the 2023 elections,” Bello said.

than three decades. For a total 13 years, he was Managing Editor, Editor, Deputy Editor-in-Chief and Editorial Board Chairman of Daily Trust Newspapers. Prior to that, Jega was Editor, New Nigerian Newspapers, Editor of The Sentinel magazine, Kaduna and Assistant Editor, Citizen magazine.

the media fortunes of this government agency after a failed satellite in the orbit. Following his success on that assignment, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) invited Sonny to rejig the media profile of the telecommunications regulator. In November 2014, he became the NCC Assistant Director/Head, Media & Public Relations, a position he held until retirement in July 2020. Sonny attended the University of Lagos and holds B.A and M.A. in English. He is also a member of Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR).

degree in Mathematics & Economics from the University of Virginia; an MSc in Development Studies from The London School of Economics (LSE) and an MBA from Oxford University’s Said Business School.

WAZIRI ADIO

Prior to his assignment at NEITI, Adio had held senior positions in different organizations, ranging from editor and columnist at THISDAY Newspapers, special adviser to the senate president, communication specialist at UNDP etc. Adio obtained his first degree in Mass Communication from the University of Lagos, a Masters in Journalism from Columbia University and another Masters in Public Administration from Harvard University, where he was, at different times, a Fellow of the Neiman Foundation for Journalism and an Edward S. Mason Fellow in public policy and management. He is also a Fellow of the fifth class of the Africa Leadership Initiative-West Africa and a member of the Aspen Global Leadership Network.

MAHMUD JEGA

Following his stint as a lecturer in Biological Sciences at his alma mater, the Usman Danfodio University, Sokoto, Jega has practiced journalism non-stop for more

PAUL NWABUIKU

A pioneer THISDAY Editorial Board member, Paul Nwabuiku, who has also served on The Guardian’s Editorial Board, is a respected public intellectual with decades of experience in journalism, advertising and public communication. A winner of the DAME Awards for Informed Commentary, Nwabuiku served twice as Special Adviser to former Finance Minister and current DG, World Trade Organisation (WTO), Dr Ngozi OkonjoIweala and played a key role in communicating the Obasanjo reforms as well as the economic initiatives of the Jonathan years.

Nwabuiku holds a fist degree in Mass Communication from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka and MBA from the University of Jos.

SONNY ARAGBA-AKPORE

Sonny Aragba-Akpore has a cognate practice in the media spanning more than three decades.

In July 2010, he was appointed Assistant General Manager/Head, Corporate Communications at the Nigerian Communications Satellite (NIGCOMSAT) Ltd with a mandate to turn around

YEMI ADAMOLEKUN

Currently the Executive Director of Enough is Enough Nigeria (EiE), a non-partisan network of individuals and organizations committed to building a culture of good governance & public accountability in the country, Adamolekun has a 23-year diverse career spanning the public and private sectors. She started her working career in the United States as a management consultant in Navigant Consulting, before moving back to Nigeria to work at Alder Consulting. In 2018, she was named as one of the Most Influential People of African Descent (MIPAD), endorsed by the United Nations in the Humanitarian & Religious category. In 2019, Adamolekun joined the Africa Program of the Center for Strategic & International Studies (CSIS) in the US as a non-resident Senior Associate.Adamolekun has a first

GIMBA KAKANDA

Founder of DMC, an Abujabased communication and strategy consulting firm, Gimba Kakanda is a notable public affairs analyst, media and foreign policy consultant and author. He is a regular contributor for Aljazeera and several Nigerian publications, including Daily Trust. Kakanda holds a master’s degree in International Relations from the London School of Economics (LSE) and is an alumnus of the University of Iowa’s International Writing Program.

With a huge following on social media, Kakanda is a notable voice in the inter-generational conversations in the Nigerian polity.

AISHA SHUAIBU

A business consultant with a decade of experience in brand and strategic management, Ms Aisha Shuaibu is Managing Director of Waffle Way in Abuja, and President of SWA Sports, an initiative that is promoting local talents in kickboxing, wrestling, and Taekwondo. Ms Shuaibu obtained her B Sc in Business Studies from the University of Bedfordshire, Luton in the United Kingdom and her Masters in Entrepreneurship and Innovation from Bahcesehir University, Istanbul

investigation.”

Speaking on his interaction with Buhari, Matawalle said the president had assured him on actions that would be taken soon to address insecurity in Zamfara State.

He said, “I do initiate some actions to be taken and if I initiate, I do inform Mr. President, and I've been getting support from him.

“So, now, I initiated another option, which I informed him.

The issue of security is not something that someone should be talking on television or pages of newspapers. But I assure the people Zamfara State that they will see changes very soon and Mr. President is committed to bringing down this issue of insecurity to barest level.

“I assure people that we have all it takes to fight these people and he has motivated me and when we go back, on Wednesday, the people will see changes between now and Wednesday.

I know what we discussed and I know what is going to happen within this period. So, my people would be happy with the action that the federal government is going to take on the issue of insecurity very soon, Inshallah.”

Meanwhile, Masari lamented the security situation in his state, noting that Kankara and Faskari local government areas of the state are still under persistent attacks by terrorists due to their proximity to the forest linking Zamfara, Kaduna, Niger, and Kebbi states. The governor said the state government would not relocate the affected villagers,

because relocating them to other communities would dislodge them socially and economically.

He said such situation was dangerous.

Masari, who spoke when he received Tinubu, said, “Today, at least, Faskari and Kankara local governments are the worst hit. Even yesterday (Saturday) there was kidnapping in Faskari local government, because of their proximity to the forest that covers Zamfara, Kaduna, Niger, and Kebbi states.

“That is why we are having persistent and consistent attacks within that belt. Many villagers have been dislodged. Luckily enough, within the last three weeks, we saw the return of most of them. We are working to see how they can return to their communities.

“But the issue before us now is restoring confidence in the minds of the people to go back to their villages, because it is in their villages that they have the farms and their economic life is there. If you relocate them from there, you are not only socially relocating them but economically dislodging them, which is very dangerous.”

He added that climate change was affecting the socio-economic activities of many villagers in the state, whom he said were not aware of the dangers associated with it.

The governor explained that the state government had established 34 weather-monitoring stations across the 34 local government areas of the state to tackle the issue of climate change.

PDP GOVS WANT NATIONAL ASSEMBLY TO QUICKLY REWORK ELECTORAL BILL AND RETURN FOR ASSENT Bill either by overriding Mr President's veto by deleting areas of complaints.

"The meeting advised that the option of sustaining Mr. President's veto would lead to a quicker resolution and would deny Mr President the opportunity to once again truncate a reformed electoral jurisprudence for Nigeria. An early-concluded Electoral Act is vital for credible elections.

"The meeting lamented the continued state of insecurity in the country, the persistent and ceaseless flow of Nigerians' blood on a daily basis in many parts of Nigeria, the near collapse of the security situation in Nigeria. The strategies to confront terrorists, kidnappers, bandits and other criminals is still a major problem of the APC administration.

"The meeting expressed regrets that Mr President is unwilling, from his recent comments discountenancing the proposals for state policing, to participate in reviewing the structural problems of tackling insecurity in Nigeria and urges Mr President to reconsider his position and consider decentralisation and restructuring of the security architecture as the most viable solution, together with proper arming, funding and training requirements for security agencies."

According to the PDP governors, the Nigerian economy has continued to deteriorate and Nigerians have become numb and accustomed to bad economic news, as exemplified by the inconsistent and differential exchange rate regimes, high interest rates, unsustainable unemployment figures, and borrowing spree for funds that have not been applied to important projects, among other bad economic indicators.

The governors declared the APC government a massive failure, when compared with the record of PDP, which governed the country until 2015.

They stated, "PDP handed over a $550 billion economy (the largest in Africa), but under APC, Nigeria is the poverty capital of the world.

In 2015, under PDP, the exchange

rate was N198 per dollar, it is now under APC almost N500 to a dollar; in 2015, unemployment rate was 7.3% under PDP, it is now 33%, one of the highest in the world under APC; in 2015, the pump price of petrol was N87 per litre, it is now N165 per litre and climbing under APC. Debt servicing now under APC takes over 98% of the federal budget.

The tales of woe is endless."

The PDP governors noted that the management of the oil and gas resources and administration of the Federation Account remittances had remained opaque, confusing and non-transparent. In addition, they said the transition to NNPC Limited under the Petroleum Industry Act was not properly streamlined to ensure that the interests of all the tiers of government were protected.

The meeting urged eligible Nigerians, particularly, the youth, to register en masse with INEC to exercise their franchise in the 2023 general election. It noted that the next election was a very important election that should be used to end the dominance of the youth unfriendly APC government. The governors urged the youth to empower themselves to determine, who leads them, but not the APC government that had the arrogance to deny Nigerian youth of the use of Twitter, a business friendly tool for the young, for over a year.

The PDP governors congratulated the party for conducting a smooth and credible national convention that led to the emergence of a new executive chaired by Dr. Iyorchia Ayu. They commended the new executive for hitting the ground running with respect to repositioning the PDP into a credible vehicle for rescuing and rebuilding Nigeria.

The meeting was attended by Tambuwal, Udom Emmanuel of Akwa Ibom State, Senator Douye Diri of Bayelsa State, Samuel Ortom of Benue State, Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta State,Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State, Nyesom Wike of Rivers State, Oluseyi Makinde of Oyo State, Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa State, and Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State.

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NEWS

EDO EXECUTIVE LEADERSHIP STRATEGY RETREAT...

L-R: Edo State Deputy Governor, Mr. Philip Shaibu; Governor, Godwin Obaseki; Secretary to the State Government, Osarodion Ogie, and Edo State Head of Service, Anthony Okungbowa, during the state’s Executive Management Leadership Strategy Retreat Programme held in Lagos...recently

Ayu: PDP Will Produce the Next President Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt National Chairman of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Senator Iyorchia Ayu, has called on Nigerians to keep faith with the party, assuring that PDP would produce the next president of the country, come 2023. Ayu gave the assurance at a gala night hosted by the Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, for PDP governors at the Government House, Port Harcourt.

The chairman maintained that

the current government of the All Progressives Congress (APC) had pulled the country backwards.

He emphasised that the APC leadership had been unable to harness the rich diversity of Nigeria into better fortunes that should strengthen the bond of brotherhood and promote peaceful coexistence.

Ayu said, "Unfortunately, a very poor leadership has presented Nigeria at home and abroad as an extremely divided country.

"We must change this narrative and the only way to change this narrative and harness not just the culture, but the environment and the richness therein, is to back the Peoples Democratic Party, which is determined to produce a new leadership for this country."

The PDP national chairman maintained that Nigeria would bounce back with PDP at the helm, because the project of rescuing the country and making it great was realisable.

Ayu stated that the leadership the PDP would offer at the national level will change the negative characteristics associated with APC that had been used to deepen the divide among Nigerians in the country.

He said, "The PDP will definitely produce the next president and take the country back to the days when we were in power, when we cleared all foreign debts, when we were developing this country at reasonable speed; when

Court Commences Trial of Alleged Invaders of Justice Peter-Odili's House Alex Enumah in Abuja

The trial of 15 persons arrested by the Nigeria Police Force over their involvement in the invasion of the residence of Supreme Court Justice, Mary Peter-Odili, finally commenced yesterday in a Federal High Court, Abuja, with the prosecution calling its first witness, a serving police officer.

The witness, ASP Madaki Chidawa, who was led into evidence by the prosecution counsel, Mr. Mathew Amosun, identified some of the defendants who allegedly participated in the October 29, 2021, unlawful raid on the premises of the number two Justice of the apex court.

Meanwhile, trial judge, Justice Nkeonye Maha, has admitted three of the defendants to bail in the same sum and terms earlier granted 12 of the defendants in December last year.

The affected defendants included ASP Mohammed Yahaya, Abdullahi Adamu and Abdullahi Usman.

It would be recalled that Justice Maha had declined an oral application for Adamu and Usman, while noting that the bail application for Yahaya was not before the court.

Those earlier granted bail included: Adjodo Lawrence (A.k.a Ola Ojo), Micheal Diete-spiff, Alex Onyekuru, Bayero Lawal (aka director of EFCC), Igwe Ernest, Aliyu Ibrahim, Maimuna Maishanu, Ayodele Akindipe (Aka Herbalist) and Yusuf Adaiu (a.k.a godson to Peter Odili), Bashir Musa, Stanley Nkwazema and Shehu Jibo.

They are standing trial on an 18

count criminal charge bordering on conspiracy, forgery and unlawful invasion.

They however, pleaded not guilty to all the charges and were admitted to bail in the sum of N5 million each and two sureties each in likes sum.

The Judge said one of the sureties of each of the defendants must be a responsible citizen and an owner of a landed property in Abuja, while the second surety must be gainfully employed in Abuja with evidence of tax payment as at when due for the past three year.

The sureties, she said must depose to an affidavit of means and that the court would confirm the landed property of the sureties, while its original title to be deposited with the court.

The defendants she said, must deposit their international passport with the court and the Comptroller General of immigration would be notified of the seizure of the international passport.

Testifying, the witness narrated how the defendants had on October 29, last year attempted to gain entry into the residence of Justice Mary Peter-Odili.

Chidawa, who claimed he had spent about nine years working with the Supreme Court Justice, stated that the defendants, comprising of some army officers, led by CSP Lawrence Adjodo at about 18:00 hours arrived the Abuja residence of Justice Odili with a search warrant signed by a Chief Magistrate Court in Abuja.

According to him, he refused to allow them into the house on

the grounds that the number on the search warrant they showed him read, No. 7, Imo Rivers street, Maitaima, while Odili’s home is on No. 9, Imo Rivers street, Abuja.

He added that the defendants gave him a number to call if he was doubting them.

"On dialing the said number for confirmation, true-caller showed the name of one, Ojo Ola EFCC,” he said.

After a cross examination by counsel to the first and fourth defendants, the court adjourned to March 1, for cross examination of PW1 by counsel to other defendants.

Recall that the 15 defendants were part of 22 persons arrested and paraded on November 11 by the Police headquarters, Abuja over the invasion of Justice Peter-Odili's house.

we became the richest country on the African continent. But, today, we are the poverty capital of the world. All that will change."

In his welcome address, Wike said the gala night was a pride to the usual meeting of PDP governors that was rotational. He said such meetings had always been used to discuss salient issues of economy, politics, and others that border on how to chart a virile Nigerian society.

"It has been ritual for PDP governors to gather and meet and discuss about the welfare of the party,” he said. “And this has been rotating from one state to the other," he added.

Chairman of PDP Governors Forum and Governor of Sokoto State, Alhaji Aminu Tambuwal, said the PDP governors and other party leaders were already working in synergy towards rebuilding the party. He said the focus was to rescue Nigeria, which would also require all Nigerians of goodwill to join forces with the PDP to achieve that goal.

Tambuwal stated, "All Nigerians of goodwill, who believe in this country, who believe Nigeria is going the wrong direction, ought

to join us. And like I always say, there are two divides in Nigeria today: those, who are happy with the confusion, because they are benefiting from what is happening at the centre, and those of us, who are truly patriotic enough to disagree with the way our country is being governed and being run.

"I appeal and beseech every Nigerian, even those in APC that are patriotic enough, to join hands with us as we continue to march towards rescuing Nigeria together.

I believe it is our responsibility to do so, not for ourselves but for our younger ones and generation unborn."

Present at the gala night were the following governors: Okezie Ikpeazu (Abia), Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri (Adamawa), Udom Emmanuel (Akwa Ibom), Mohammed Bala (Bauchi), Samuel Ortom (Benue), Seyi Makinde (Oyo), and Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi (Enugu). Also in attendance were the deputy governors of Rivers and Zamfara, Dr. Ipalibo Harry-Banigo and Mahdi Gusau, respectively, PDP national secretary, Senator Sam Anyanwu, and several other dignitaries.

NGE Takes Self-scrutiny Town Hall Meeting to Kano The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) has slated its town hall meeting for the north-west geopolitical zone for the Tahir Guest Palace (Hotel), Kano, for tomorrow.

The NGE had late last year announced its plans to hold town hall meetings across the six geo-political zones. It had commenced with the meeting in the south-west zone that took place in Lagos, last November.

With a theme: “Agenda Setting for Sustainable Democratic Culture,” the main objective of the meeting, which is being supported by the United States (US) Embassy in Nigeria, is to assess the media performance in consolidating Nigeria’s democracy – citizens’ verdict and outlining media agenda for the future.

In a statement by its President, Mustapha Isah and the General Secretary, Iyobosa Uwugiaren, yesterday, the professional body of all the editors in Nigeria, said the meeting would provide a

platform for media stakeholders to remind editors and other media managers of the sacred duties they are tasked to perform by the constitution on behalf of the citizens.

Drawing instances from democracies around the world, the statement added that the meeting would be taken across the six geo-political zones of the country, with the aim of instilling in the editors the need to perform their duties with the highest form of professional standards and sense of responsibility.

“The town hall meeting will provide a platform for media stakeholders to undertake selfscrutiny and also begin a robust conversation on a framework for media regulation, which will not only have their buy-in but also advance the standard for media practice in Nigeria thereby reducing, if not eliminate, incidents of sub-standard and unprofessional reportage in the Nigerian media.

“Such robust conversations and

hopefully, eventual adoption of self-regulatory framework could also have a regional spin-off whereby countries within the region, and indeed Africa, could be encouraged to borrow a leaf from the Nigerian example, as was the case with the adoption of a Freedom of Information Act in Nigeria subsequently having a positive spin-off in Ghana,” the NGE added.

Those invited to the meeting which would be followed by a two-day capacity building for 50 editors in the zone, “are the revered Emir of Kano, traditional/ religious leaders, leading prodemocracy/human rights activists in the zone, renowned scholars from the academic community, pro-media rights groups, students from different higher institutions, faith groups, and the media.”

On the expected impact of the meeting and the capacity building workshop, the NGE said a pool of Nigerian editors and media managers would be galvanised

and would be committed to the highest ethical standard and taking robust actions to ensure same.

“And committed to the promotion and protection of the right to independent press, freedom of expression and the deepening of democratic space.

“The NGE is hopeful that at the end of the project, a pool of editors will be mobilised to constantly projecting issue-based governance for the benefit of the Nigerian people – in line with Section 22 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria’’, the statement added.

The NGE explained further that the programme looks to galvanise the key stakeholders to act responsibly and deny the authorities the moral authority to take punitive actions against the media for performing their constitutionally assigned role to hold the government to account, and to the general citizens the right to hold and voice their opinions on the conduct of public officers.

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COMMENT

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

THE TIME HAS COME TO CHOOSE WISELY Bola Tinubu is fit and proper to be President of Nigeria, writes Kashim Shettima

I

stand here today honoured by the burden of expectations upon me and, more tellingly, strengthened by the convictions of the patriots with us in this journey to make history. We are brought together by a forest of ideas, but what defines us and sets us apart from other political groups is this collective realisation that the future of this country rests on the choice of a unifying leader; a leader who panders to neither ethnic nor religious agenda, and one who isn’t bound by toxic regional solidarity and yet known for a track record of outstanding leadership. If you look round this country in search of such a noble character, the count easily falls on the subject of this gathering: Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

So much has been said about this political enigma and most of them by hacks with a poor sense of history. The path that led us to Asiwaju didn’t happen by chance. His propensity for sacrificing his comfort to save our democracy has been duly documented across time.

When uncertainty loomed over the country during the military era, this was the man who disbursed his resources to fight for the return to this democracy. Even in exile, he provided sanctuaries for fleeing patriots who are still around to testify to his large heart. Our younger compatriots must be in the know of Tinubu’s memories from two decades past—when he was a backbone of the opposition and fiercely antagonized and politically ostracised by the then ruling party, the Peoples Democratic Party. He even built the economic foundations of the modern Lagos State at the time the State was isolated by a vindictive federal government.

While Tinubu’s political contemporaries were trading their principles for a place at the table in Abuja during President Olusegun Obasanjo’s era, and throwing their political allies under the bus, he took the risk to build a political alternative to the ruling party and his choices of candidates underlined his political credentials. He became, and has remained, a dependable sanctuary of victims of political witch-hunts. In 2007, he offered his political structure to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar to run for President under the Action Congress (AC) banner. Four years later, he made this structure available for Malam Nuhu Ribadu, and this foresight of the Jagaban Borgu would also set the tone of the 2015 general elections. His place as a fulcrum of the All Progressives Congress re-asserted his essence, and we all owe him a debt of gratitude and deserved loyalty for prioritizing principles over personal gains.

Asiwaju’s choices and endorsements of northerners as presidential candidates while others were masterminding ethno-regional solidarity and fuelling socio-cultural affinities readily affirm his pan-Nigerian profile. Where others see divisions to exploit, he sees collaborations.

Where others chase an easy route to power, he reminds you of Geoffrey Chaucer’s immortal wisdom—that patience is a conquering virtue. And it’s this patience that has brought us together today, to remember the examples he’s set and the debt we owe him.

The mudslinging that has trailed Asiwaju since his presidential bid took the top spot in the country is a mere acknowledgment of his political track record and inimitable influence on our political scene.

The attempts at weaving ridiculous fiction to override the history we’ve all witnessed demonstrate the detractors’ utter desperation and cowardice. One of such is the mischievous fixation on his age and the wild conclusions that he’s physically unsuitable for the Office of the President. This obsession characterizes the thinking of those who have no understanding of Asiwaju’s incredible work ethic.

A few days ago, I joined him on a trip to Zamfara State to condole with the people and identify with their realities, and the experience made a nonsense of the propaganda that he’s unfit to run Nigeria. On the eve of the trip, Asiwaju had retired at 6 am, after Subhi prayers, and was already awake and attending to guests by 11 am. We departed for

THE ATTEMPTS AT WEAVING RIDICULOUS FICTION TO OVERRIDE THE HISTORY WE’VE ALL WITNESSED DEMONSTRATE THE DETRACTORS’ UTTER DESPERATION AND COWARDICE. ONE OF SUCH IS THE MISCHIEVOUS FIXATION ON HIS AGE AND THE WILD CONCLUSIONS THAT HE’S PHYSICALLY UNSUITABLE FOR THE OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT. THIS OBSESSION CHARACTERIZES THE THINKING OF THOSE WHO HAVE NO UNDERSTANDING OF ASIWAJU’S INCREDIBLE WORK ETHIC

Sokoto around 2 pm and had to traverse the menacing hinterland of that part of the North-West for seven hours from Sokoto to Gusau— where he made a generous donation of N50 million as he had in other places struck by tragedies—and then back to Sokoto. On returning to Abuja by midnight, his schedule was entirely a series of meetings that kept him up till 3 am. Now, excuse my curiosity, how many of us here can match or endure such a demanding schedule? Asiwaju’s alacrity, therefore, has never been a subject of scepticism for those who’ve worked with him, and even his critics are aware of this. If he were half the man in their tales by moonlight, they would’ve long succeeded in subduing him.

The mark of true leadership isn’t the ability to lift a bag of cement.

It’s the mental effort to think rationally of solutions designed to redeem one’s people and territorial jurisdiction. This was why leaders like Franklin D. Roosevelt, the 32nd president of the United States of America, stood out. Roosevelt took power in a country wrecked by the Great Depression of the 1930s and guided its economy through the Second World War, and the quality of his thoughts and ideas made the United States a superpower under his watch. Similarly, the accident that had Kenya’s Mwai Kibaki confined to a wheelchair didn’t disable his ability to produce sound ideas, and Kenyans were sold on his virtue that they chose him as their President over what some would consider a fitter option.

I’m not asking you to tone down critical assessments of your future leaders, but redirect you to see the bigger picture. We are not here to prepare for the Olympics, but an institution that relies on the superiority of ideas to thrive. Asiwaju’s credentials aren’t only appealing, they are proof of the qualities this country needs to redeem its vast potential and possibilities. We are here to testify to this power of ideas—one that overturned the fortunes of Lagos State and sustained its supremacy as the largest economy in sub-Saharan Africa and kept the opposition alive when it was more profitable to sell out. Those who seek to make us go low hope to present the presidency as a brick-laying exercise. But that’s the work of a machine created by an idea, and who else to guide us towards manufacturing the best ideas to redeem this country?

To derail us at this point is a futile ambition. The conversations we are prepared for aren’t pedestrian obsessions with the mundane, but comparisons of ideas and track records of service to the nation. At the top of our expectations from Nigeria’s next president should be mastery of the dynamics of the modern economy, testified leadership skills and competence, and, very significantly, sensitivity to the complexities of Nigerian sociology. Pause to reflect on the man we are here to celebrate, and what you see is a tested, accomplished, and large-hearted leader who’s invested his resources in building an extensive network of political mentees who’ve risen to the peak of their career.

But in politics, of course, the camps with nothing to sell always choose the mud. We are not going to take the bait. We are going to keep them talking and busy with irrefutable records of Asiwaju’s suitability to lead this country to the promised land. I’m not saying it’s going to be easy, for those who’ve been in the system for long understand that some character’s loyalty has a thing in common with a chameleon. What we promise, however, is to make sure that all Nigerians are presented with a side of the Jagaban Bornu other than the fiction and half-truths from political desperadoes clinging to the rigging of a sinking ship. This is why we are here—to build and mobilise a network of believers and volunteers at the grassroots to help us deliver the Nigeria of our dream.

Excerpts from a keynote address by Senator Shettima at Support Group Conference, organised by Support Groups Management Council in honour of Asiwaju Tinubu in Abuja

MALAMI AS A MAN OF COURAGE

Charles Ibekwe writes that the attorney-general and minister of justice’s interest is tied with that of the country

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he name Abubakar Malami rings a bell and resonates with different meanings to different people. But one thing is certain; he is a man with guts and one that is not afraid to put issues in proper perspective.

I have long reminisced about how Abubakar Malami has been able to carry out his duties as the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation in a country as ballistic as ours. The office is not for the lily-livered; it is also not for the intellectually lazy because of the intricacies in the spirit and letter of the Constitution. The Nigerian situation is a peculiar one that requires the best of the best to navigate the complexities and intricacies inherent in our legal system.

I took out time to assess the various interventions of the Justice Ministry under Abubakar Malami. All I could say is that we have an attorney general that is brave and not afraid to speak “power to the truth.”

However, it must be stated that his stance regarding the interpretation of the Constitution and the rule of law has been nothing but audacious.

His grasp of issues is legendary, and this has in most times, been construed in the negative. In all of the attendant uproar, there has never been a time when his sense of judgment was faulted or punctured by a superior argument. The reason is not far-fetched because Abubakar Malami indeed connotes courage and one whose interest has essentially

remained the country’s interest.

Like him or hate him, compromising on national concerns are not one of his attributes. You might not like his approach, but you can’t also rule out the substance of his approach in the sense that a great deal of emphasis is placed on the provisions as enshrined in the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Little wonder why he has been honoured for his unbiased patriotic service to his fatherland.

Abubakar Malami (SAN) has distinguished himself as a plain-speaking man whose body language has always been in tandem with his belief that Nigeria’s unity is unshakeable.

Malami has carried on gleefully in building national cohesion for growth and prosperity. His knowledge of the legal system and political party constitution has also helped the Buhari-led government and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to record numerous achievements that could have stalled government activities and thrown governance into chaos.

The Attorney-General has proved his mettle, and he has continued to secure many wins for the Buhari-led administration. Also worthy of note is Malami’s commitment towards ending the multidimensional crisis facing the Lake Chad Basin States through collaborative efforts with relevant agencies.

Malami in keeping true to his words in ensuring that

probity and accountability are the hallmark of the administration has disclosed during the presentation of the final forensic audit report of the Niger Delta Commission (NDDC) that the federal government approved N6 trillion for the NDDC in 18 years while the bulk of these funds meant for the development of the region was diverted into private pockets. The AGF has assured the people of Niger Delta that their welfare and socioeconomic inclusion was a priority for the government.

As the chief law officer of the federation, the AGF is responsible for advising the government on legal matters and representing the government on such issues. And this much he has carried on since his appointment. Therefore, there is no doubt whatsoever regarding the commitment of the AGF towards adherence to the spirit and the letters of the Constitution. Please permit me to add that in ensuring the above stated, he is bound to make friends and enemies.

The irony is that he made more enemies than friends because he has remained firm in his resolve to stand on the side of the truth. In my considered opinion, that is an attribute of a patriot. Indeed Abubakar Malami has displayed that patriotism is the feeling of love, devotion, and sense of attachment to the country and alliance with other citizens who share the same sentiment to create a feeling of oneness.

Let me share an example in history. In 1934, President Franklyn Roosevelt was a thorn in the flesh for industrial big wigs in the USA. There was a plot to stage a coup and create a fascist government.

Men approached a-twice decorated Major General Smedley Butler to help with the coup stating that he would be their leader. This patriotic general spilt the beans, came out in the open, and gave evidence. He could have cooperated with them and could have easily replaced the president. Complete loyalty to his country makes a person a true patriotic one.

This is indeed the Abubakar Malami example.

He has been a thorn in the flesh of those that want to interpret the constitution in their language, those who wish to utilize the legal system in Nigeria to their advantage. But they could not succeed because we have in an AGF a patriot who would not condescend to the scheming of shenanigans to exploit the country.

We are also talking about the quintessential AGF, whose coordination of the Justice ministry in Nigeria has been roundly applauded. Little wonder why no fewer than 79 organizations and corporate bodies have conferred awards for patriotic service, humanitarian intervention, and nation-building on the AGF in 2021. The AGF has ensured collaborations with agencies and organs of government on issues that require attention.

Ibekwe wrote from Enugu

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EDITORIAL THE SCOURGE OF RITUAL KILLINGS Culprits should be prosecuted and severely punished to serve as a deterrent

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ncreasingly, many Nigerians live in fear over growing cases of ritual killings. Last week, a 20-year-old man, Moses Oko, was arrested by the police for allegedly killing a University of Jos’ 300-level student, Jennifer Anthony, for ritual purposes. Jennifer’s body was found at a hotel with her eyes gouged out and some other body parts missing. Barely five days after, the body of another lady named Plangnam Solomon was dumped around the Plateau Radio TV Corporation in Rayfield, Jos South local government area of the Plateau State capital. Her eyes and some sensitive body parts were also removed.

The killings in Jos have become a source of concern to the government and citizens of the area.

“I am deeply saddened by the activities of criminals who are trying to disrupt the peace of our state,” said Governor Simon Lalong. However, the Jos killings are not isolated MANY OF OUR UNIVERSITY incidents. While CAMPUSES HAVE BECOME there may be no BREEDING GROUNDS FOR reliable statistics, YAHOO BOYS AND GIRLS. the menace of WHAT COULD ACCOUNT FOR missing persons THESE BARBARIC ACTS OF and ritual killings VIOLENCE EVEN AMONG THE across the country has become EDUCATED? pronounced. Many of the missing persons are said to be victims of ritual killings.

Indeed, it has become so obvious that a civil society organisation, ‘Enough is Enough’, has opened a website to document the trend.

In March 2014, the nation, for instance, was thrown into confusion when a kidnappers’ den was discovered in Soka community, Ibadan, Oyo State. After the den was raided by some commercial motorcyclists who were searching for two of their missing colleagues, human skulls, dried human parts alongside malnourished victims reportedly reserved for ritual purposes, were discovered. Since that incident, many other suspected ritual killings, have been reported.

Letters to the Editor

In August 2018, the Lagos police arrested one Taiwo Akinola, a suspected cult member, for allegedly attempting to kill his mother for money rituals.

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T H I S D AY EDITOR SHAKA MOMODU DEPUTY EDITORS WALE OLALEYE, OBINNA CHIMA MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR ISRAEL IWEGBU CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN MANAGING EDITOR BOLAJI ADEBIYI THE OMBUDSMAN KAYODE KOMOLAFE

T H I S D AY 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 SHAKA MOMODU, 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 TO SEND EMAIL: first name.surname@thisdaylive.com

ut perhaps one of the most celebrated cases was that of the Port Harcourt serial killer, Gracious David-West, who reportedly lured seven young ladies with high-risk lifestyle across Lagos, Imo and Rivers State to hotels and murdered them, allegedly for rituals. Similarly, Ms Iniobong Umoren, a young graduate who was raped and murdered while searching for a job in Uyo environs, Akwa Ibom State, not long ago, was allegedly used for ritual purposes. But the gruesome murder of a 300 Level undergraduate of Delta State University, Abraka, Elozino Ogege by a gang of four yahoo boys was horrifying. One of the criminals told the police that they took the young lady to a bush where they plucked out one of her eyes while she was still alive.

“She was even crying and begging us to forgive her and let her go, but we plucked the other eye, removed her breast and heart before she died,” he said.

But the questions inevitably arise: What are the motives? What could be the cause of these grim acts of violence against fellow human beings, and indeed, the society? The young man who allegedly killed the girl friend in Jos is said to be the son of a lecturer.

Indeed, many of our university campuses have become breeding grounds for Yahoo boys and girls.

What could account for these barbaric acts of violence even among the educated?

Many attribute the menace to the growing sense of desperation to acquire wealth, without work. Amid the prevailing poverty and joblessness in the land, many have resorted to doing anything, no matter how weird, for wealth. There is no proven link between the costly rituals and the instant wealth promised through magical potions by herbalists and voodoo practitioners. Yet, the society is ravaged by it. The surge in impunity will persist unless the society punishes stiffly and promptly all proven cases of criminality.

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.

NIGERIA AND THE DICE OF DISPLACEMENT

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hat does it feel like to be forced to flee? To hurriedly pack up leaving sand and stars behind in a place that provided succor and sanctuary for as long as one knew because it was home.

It is better imagined. But like a welcome mat, displacement is now the reality of many who had stable lives in the Northeast.

Out of Nigeria`s sobering nightmare rolls the riotously uncertain dice of displacement. Large families are forced to flee slaughter with nothing but the clothes on their backs, uncertainty melding with terror. They leave their farms behind, they leave their cattle behind, they leave everything behind.

They resume in camps where congestion conduces to disease and abuse, not to talk of the toll constant running takes on the psyche. In Nigeria`s Northeast, children strapped to their mothers` backs know how the pulse pounds differently in the footrace of survival; children still coming to grips with the use of their feet know the soreness that results from Nigeria`s rat-race of survival.

To survive, a people have to live on the run, the scantest attention paid to their bodies, their minds, the uniquely indescribable binds of familial love and the future of many innocent children. Instead, a skittish nation pricks up its ears straining to hear the blast of Boko Haram`s bombs boomeranging on a country that has failed to be proactive.

For how long shall people continue to run? Until when pregnant woman can bring her child into the world in a hospital and not on the run? In a country of millions caught in a marathon with minions, shall the cheetah be outpaced by the centipede? Displacement must

be absolutely gut-wrenching. It is better left to the imagination. But like other horrors, it is the lived reality of many.

On December 31, 2021, as earlier announced, Borno State closed all the IDP camps within Maiduguri, thereby sending IDPs back to volatile communities in which what is left is straight out of Boko Haram`s book of blood.

Last year, the House of Representatives comically worked itself into a lather over the continued refusal of the NYSC to reopen its camp in Borno State even as peace had supposedly returned to the state.

Governor Zulum must ignore those who having been fattened by Nigeria`s milk now seek to milk it of every iota of clarity.

It seems it is the preoccupation of some people to argue that Borno State has become safe and as such, things should return to normal.

But that is a load of wishful thinking. Terrorist activities in the state are unrelenting in spite of the heroic efforts of the Nigerian Army.

Every Nigerian of goodwill desires that Borno State should be safe and secure for all its residents. But with Boko Haram and ISWAP still in full and forceful operation, that appears a tall order. Until then, it serves little good to insist that the state has become peaceful.

In his new year message on January 1, the Borno State Governor Mr. Babagana Zulum said that criminal activities going on in the camps had disposed them to closure. But who does not now know that in Nigeria the sticky squalor of many an IDP camp is fodder for criminal activities?

Being an IDP in Nigeria is not just a nightmare – the nightmare has the terror of terrorists and the indiscretion of government officials as chief players.

Kene Obiezu, keneobiezu@gmail.com

THE LABOUR OF OUR HEROES PAST

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n our national anthem, we sing boldly about the labour of our heroes past and we pray to defend them, but as we celebrate our armed forces Remembrance Day, the labour of those soldiers that died for Nigeria is going in vain. The way and manner our service men are treated leaves much to be desired. I have heard different accounts of soldiers and families being paid paltry amount as severance package after working so hard for over 20 years. .I interviewed a soldier recently that after over 35 years of working his take home pay couldn’t complete his house and today he struggles with providing a roof over his head. There are also challenges of logistical nightmare and battle fatigue for some of the troops, as some of them stay too long on the battle front. I must confess our soldiers are doing so much with the little resource, there is a dearth of Armoured personnel carriers and other equipment. Although some spending has been done recently to purchase equipment, but more needs to be done, our troops can’t continue to use Vans in place of Armoured personnel carriers, We must also strive to provide the right ammunition for the soldiers. The recent attacks on the Army facility in Biu, Borno State, is demoralizing.

I strongly believe our troops are capable of destroying banditry but they must be given support. Recently, some retired soldiers protested non-payment of arrears. We must never allow this happen in our country, we must give the best at all times to our heroes.

Rufai Oseni, rufaioseni@gmail.com

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NEWS

Again, FG Amends Charges against Nnamdi Kanu as Trial Resumes IPOB Warns against Imposing Sit-at-home Order

Alex Enumah in Abuja and Gideon Arinze in Enugu The federal government has once again amended alleged terrorism charges filed against the embattled leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) Nnamdi Kanu.

The amendment filed yesterday , came barely 24 hours to the resumed trial of Kanu over alleged crime bordering on terrorism before Justice Binta Nyako of the Abuja Division of the Federal High Court.

Although the judge had in last November adjourned to January 19, 2022 to hear all pending applications regarding the suit, it however brought forward the hearing to January 18, following request by Kanu’s lawyer, Ifeanyi Ejiofor.

The amendmen,t which is the second since the IPOB leader was rearrested and extradited to Nigeria, mid last year, witnessed an increase of eight new charges.

Kanu is standing trial on an amended seven count criminal charge bordering on alleged terrorism and treasonable felony.

He pleaded not guilty to the charges read to him in October this year.

However, when the case resumes today, Kanu is expected

to take a fresh plea on 15 charges contained in the amended process filed by the Director of Public Prosecution, Mohammed Abubakar.

Meanwhile, Justice Nyako is

expected to continue with the schedule of the day after Kanu must have taken his plea on the fresh charges, which is the hearing of a motion challenging the competent of the charge filed

by the federal government as well as the jurisdiction of the court to hear the suit.

In a related development, the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has warned that it will treat as

criminal anybody found enforcing sit-at-home order between January 17 and 20. The IPOB had declared a sit-at-home to be observed across states in the South-east on Tuesday, January 18, 2022 in

solidarity with its leader Nnamdi Kanu whose fundamental human rights enforcement suit against the federal government will be heard at the Umuahia High Court.

MERITED ELEVATION…

Inspector-General of Police Usman Alkali Baba (left) and Deputy Inspector-General of Police, Johnson Kokumo decorating newly promoted Tolulope Ipinmisho with her new rank of Superintendent of Police at the Force Headquarters, Abuja…recently

A’ Ibom Inaugurates Enforcement Ekiti PDP Aspirants Protest against Fayose, Team on Scrap Scavenging, Want Congress Annulled Commercial Motorcyclists Victor Ogunje in Ado Ekiti

Okon Bassey in Uyo Akwa Ibom State Government has set up a multi-faceted team to enforce the ban on the scrap scavenging, and commercial motorcycle operation within Uyo, the capital city.

The state government had on January 4, 2022, banned the activities of scrap scavengers due to the death of three persons caused by a fallout between scrap scavengers and indigenes of the community.

The Senior Special Assistant to the state Governor, Udom Emmanuel, on Security Matters and Special Services, Capt. Iniubong Ekong (rtd), in an interview yesterday, said the inauguration of

the task force was to ensure that government directives are obeyed to the later for the safety and security of the people.

He maintained that the enforcement became imperative in order to tackle any internal insecurity in the state, noting that most heinous crimes such as rape, burglary, and stealing, from investigations, were being perpetuated with the use of motorcycles.

Ekong said: “We have seen ugly development that Okada riding has started creeping in especially in Uyo metropolis, and other parts of Uyo capital city. This has not in any way helped the positivity of our security architecture.

As a way of ventilating their anger over the conduct of last Saturday’s adhoc delegate conference, some of the People’s Democratic Party governorship aspirants in Ekiti State , yesterday protested and called on the National Working Committee (NWC) to cancel the congress and order a rerun.

The aspirants expressed anger over how former governor

Ayodele Fayose allegedly hijacked the congress conducted by a committee chaired by Akwa Ibom State Governor, Udom Emmanuel to his advantage.

The ward congress was staged by the PDP to elect three adhoc delegates to participate in the January 26 shadow poll of the party.

The protesting aspirants are former Ekiti State governor, Mr. Segun Oni, Senator Biodun

Olujimi, Alhaji Lateef Ajijola and Mr. Yinka Akerele.

The aggrieved PDP chieftains , who paraded the streets carrying placards with their hordes of supporters, appealed to Senator Iyorcha Ayu-led NWC to cancel the congress that was allegedly skewed in favour former governor Ayodele’s political group.

While addressing party members, Senator Olujimi, who spoke on behalf of other aspirants,

said that the ward congress didn’t take place in any part of the state, adding the purported result being bandied around was allegedly concocted by Fayose.

She faulted the five-man panel sent by the PDP national secretariat to supervise the congress, lamenting that the exercise was shrouded in secrecy to subvert the people’s will, transparency, inclusive participation of all the aspirants.

Civil Society Groups Task National Assembly on Electoral Bill

Chuks Okocha in Abuja

As the federal lawmakers resume today after Christmas and New Year break. Civil society groups have tasked the National Assembly on the Electoral Bill 2021 on the need for them to prioritize the review of the Bill with dispatch.

The civil society groups said

that their town hall meeting served as an opportunity to animate the public on key provisions in the Bill and how they will enhance the integrity of future elections.

In a statement signed by Yiaga Africa, International Press Centre (IPC), Centre for Citizens with Disability (CCD),The Albino Foundation,

CLEEN Foundation,Institute for Media and Society (IMS),Nigerian Women Trust Fund (NWTF),Premium Times Centre for Investigative Journalism (PTCIJ),Partners for Electoral Reform (PER),Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC),Women Advocates Research and Documentation Centre

(WARDC),Nigeria Network of Non-Governmental Organizations (NNNGO) and Inclusive Friends Association (IFA), they said that participants at the meeting were drawn from the National Assembly, political parties, civil society, media, professional associations, labour unions and citizens.

Front (ISF), has accused Governor Hope Uzodinma of instigating the recent removal of Senator Ifeanyi Araraume as Chairman of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited.

The group stated this in a communique issued to newsmen after an emergency meeting in the Imo State capital.

Duru, the group said it was in possession of the details of how the governor assisted by a junior minister, mobilised forces across the nation to put pressure on President Muhammadu Buhari to drop Senator Araraume from the NNPC Board.

The group further stated that it was also in possession of the

agencies, which investigated all the baseless accusations against him (Araraume) as contained in the numerous petitions written by the agents of the Imo State Government.

It added that the major objective of the Imo State Government was to level criminal allegations against Araraume with a view to

of the NNPC. “When the petitions against Araraume failed after investigations, the Imo State Government went ahead and mobilised prominent chieftains of the All Progressives Congress(APC) who have access to Mr President to finally move for Araraume’s removal,” they said.

NLNG Suspension of Exportation of Cooking Imo Elders Accuse Uzodinma of Instigating Araraume’s Removal from NNPC Board Imo elders under the In the communique signed clean bill of health given to portraying him as ineligible to Gas, A Relief, Says Ikeazor Some platform of Imo Solidarity by its Chairman, Chief Jerome Araraume by Nigeria’s security hold the office of the Chairman Michael Olugbode in Abuja Nigeria’s Minister of State for the Environment, Chief Sharon Ikeazor has said the decision of the Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG) Limited to suspend exportation of the cooking gas will not only bring down the price of the commodity but also bring relief to the nation’s forests and the ecosystems.

The minister, who described the decision of the NLNG as courageous, noted that it was patriotic for the company to suspend the exportation of cooking gas while approving 100 per cent domestic supply of the product.

Ikeazor also noted that such a bold initiative was a welcomed development and a step in the right direction that will not only

bring down the price of the commodity but also bring relief to our forests and the ecosystems.

The minister in a statement yesterday said: “The NLNG should be commended for its sensitivity and responsiveness to the plight of Nigerians.

“For us in the environment sector, this singular decision will not only help in restoring our forests and in addressing some of our climate challenges, but also facilitate the attainment of our Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) and other aspects of the Paris Agreement.”

Ikeazor recalled that shortly after the increase in the prices of cooking gas in the country, millions of Nigerians could no longer afford the commodity and consequently resorted to firewood and charcoal as alternatives.

Kidnappers Demand N40m from Abducted Insurance Council Staff James Sowole in Abeokuta Kidnappers of two junior staff of the Nigerian Council of Registered Insurance Brokers (NCRIB), have demanded payment of N40 million before the victims can be released.

The two officers, were reportedly abducted on

Sunday around the Isara axis of Lagos-Ibadan expressway end of Ogun State.

The victims were said to be on their way back to Lagos from Ibadan before the car in which they were travelling broke down around 6:45am and while in the process of fixing the car, the gunmen, in

military camouflage, emerged from the bush and marched them away. The Executive Secretary of Nigerian Council of Registered Insurance Brokers (NCRIB), Tope Adaramola, confirmed the incident.

Adaramola said the kidnappers had contacted the management demanding N20

million each for the victims to regain freedom.

He said the kidnappers used the mobile phone of one of the victims to demand the ransom, adding that the management had equally reported the incident at the Divisional Police Headquarters in Isara.

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T H I S D AY ˾ TUESDAY JANUARY 18, 2022

POLITICS

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

APC: A Commendable Scorecard for Buni The All Progressives Congress National Executive Committee appointed Yobe State Governor, Mai Mala Buni to run the party and calm its troubled waters after the turbulence of the past era, eighteen months later, how well has the party fared in repairing the fault line,? Asks Chiemelie Ezeobi

Buhari

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hen the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Executive Committee (NEC) dissolved the Adams Oshiomhole-led National Working Committee (NWC) on June 25, 2020, many stakeholders hailed it for moving to save the party from – in the words of President Muhammadu Buhari described – “self-destruction.”

The last months of the Oshiomhole era had seen the party teetering on the brink of implosion by a protracted leadership crisis.

To steady the ‘ship of state’ and bring it back from the precipice, the NEC at its virtual meeting appointed Yobe State Governor Mai Mala Buni to run the party.

Problems of Oshiomhole era The task before Buni was daunting. The Oshiomhole chairmanship had resulted in several challenges that threatened the party’s relevance and existence.

President Buhari, in his remarks at the NEC, captured the mood at the time. He expressed worry over shifting loyalty within the party and inconsistency in leadership, which had opened the governing party to mockery.

Buhari said: “There are also other associated disputes as to the legitimacy or otherwise of holders of certain national offices of the party.

The party is also contending with judicial claims and counter-claims, orders and counter-orders and indeed, judgments and counter-judgments that are predominantly at cross-purposes.

“Confronted with these issues, it is obvious that the fortunes of the party are currently in jeopardy, administration of our party is becoming impossible and there is consequently an urgent need for intervention to immediately arrest further drifts and internal wrangling which may lead to total disintegration.

“What we see clearly emerging, is that we are beginning to self-destruct. This, my dear party members, is not just regrettable but utterly gut-wrenching.”

Buni’s Committee to Steer the Party Buni was not expected to face the problems alone. The NEC appointed 12 others to assist him. They are John Akpanudoedehe, a former senator for Akwa Ibom North East; former Senate President Ken Nnamani; APC governorship candidate in Bayelsa in 2019, David Lyon; Osun State Governor Isiaka Oyetola; Niger State Governor Sani Bello; Vice Chancellor of Baze University in Abuja, Tahir Mamman (SAN); and the Vice Chairman of the Senate Committee on Cooperation and Integration in Africa and NEPAD, Abubakar Yusuf (Taraba Central Senatorial District).

Others include Rep Akinremi Olaide (Ibadan North Federal Constituency of Oyo State); Executive Director (Business Development) of Nigerian-Export Bank (NEXIM), Stella Okorete; Chairman, Plateau State Disability Rights Commission, James Lalu; former interim chairman of the APC Youth Forum (APYF), Ismail Ahmed; and Abba Ari representing the

Buni

Oyetola

Northwest geo-political zone.

Strategy Speaking with State House correspondents after the extraordinary NEC meeting, Buni was asked for his plans for the APC. Buni said: “I know the party very well.

It’s all about doing justice to every member of the party because without justice there won’t be peace. It is all about team play.

“I am a team player; I have a capable team that can work with me. If you don’t manage crisis, obviously crisis will manage you. So, I won’t allow any crisis to fester henceforth.”

Scorecard so Far Eighteen months later, how has the Buniled NCC performed? Has the strategy worked? Yes, says APC spokesperson, Salisu Na’inna Dambatta.

In a November 2019 article titled “Highpoints of Mai Mala Buni’s leadership of the APC” Dambatta touted the “positive role” the Caretaker Committee “is playing for the growth and consolidation of democracy in the country.”

He wrote against the backdrop of the “untenable calls on the chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Caretaker Extraordinary Convention Planning Committee (CECPC)” Buni to relinquish his chairmanship of the Committee.

According to him, Buni has blended the talents and political sagacity of members of the Caretaker Committee to successfully revive the APC “which is now revving on high turbocharger as the leading, largest and winning political party in Nigeria.”

Noting that the party is barely eight years old, he observed that the APC was “managing triple issues: size (it grew too fast), success (it won two national elections twice in a row) and an internal turbulence (caused by many factors) that necessitated the change of its leadership.”

The spokesman argued that the committee had successfully discharged its basic assignments beyond expectations, “with adds-on that speak well of the quality and character of members of the Committee who restored oneness and installed mechanisms that made internal harmony

a permanent feature that distinguishes the APC from other political parties.

Africa’s Largest Party Waxes Stronger The ruling party’s rival, the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) had once prided itself as the largest political party in Africa.

But it seems to have relinquished that title following the APC’s recent registration exercise under Buni.

Dambatta said: “Regardless of the short-lived squabbles over the recent ward, local government and state congresses, the APC is waxing stronger nationwide.

Many political pundits undeniably admit that it is the most sought-after political party in the country.

“This is an additional highpoint achieved by the Buni-led Committee; even the habitual bashers of the party accept the political truth that the APC has emerged stronger than they expected after the crisis that engulfed it.

“Asolid evidence of the rush to embrace the APC and its progressive outlook is in the more than 40 million Nigerians that registered as its partisans. There are many justifications for the mass rush into the party. The most outstanding reason is the purposeful leadership provided

by President Muhammadu Buhari. The good deeds of APC progressive governors and the good performance of legislators elected under its banner are additional strong justifications.

“The APC has, it must be said for record purposes, at least one member elected on its platform in more than 90 per cent of the states of the federation. It has absolute majority in more than half of the 36 in the federation and the Federal Capital Territory.”

Buni Corroborated the claim on January 13, 2022 “The APC conducted a very successful membership registration and revalidation exercise. We now have over 41 million registered members across the country, with full details of every member.

“APC remains Africa’s largest political party and Nigeria’s ruling party with a

Against the backdrop of the untenable calls on the chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Caretaker Extraordinary Convention Planning Committee (CECPC) Buni to relinquish his chairmanship of the Committee, Buni has blended the talents and political sagacity of members of the Caretaker Committee to successfully revive the APC which is now revving on high turbocharger as the leading, largest and winning political party in Nigeria

Nnamani

population that will always win elections,” he said, according to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).

Bringing ‘Party Back to Life Dambatta put the party’s success since the inception of the Buni-led Caretaker Committee down to “strategic political bridge-building and hard work.”

He added: “It involved engagement to reconcile, forgive and forget and look to a future that is positive, and definitely rewarding, in the form of winning elections and the subsequent service delivery to the citizenry.

“The party has cleared political bumps, settled internal disputes and extended its arms, beckoning on millions of Nigerians to join its fold and become part of its unstoppable march toward changing the development landscape of the country.

“The testimonial to the success of the Caretaker Committee was vividly expressed by the topmost national leader of the APC, President Muhammadu Buhari, when the Caretaker Committee presented its report to him at the State House.

He said: ‘With the work done by the Committee, the party has bounced back to life.’

He noted further that the Caretaker Committee had conducted ward, local government and states congresses, heard and resolved subsequent appeals from aggrieved contestants, thereby preparing the party for a rancour-free elective national convention.

Heavyweight Defections Another achievement of the committee, according to him, was the winning for the APC family three sitting state governors and scores of parliamentarians from other political parties.

The ruling party has in the Buni era gained a lot of political capital from the political misfortunes of the PDP. In 2021, there were several high-profile defections into the APC, including the following: January 28: Seven APM lawmakers in Ogun defected to the APC. The lawmakers were Modupe Mujota representing Abeokuta North State Constituency, Musefiu Lamidi from AdoOdo/Ota II and Amosun Yusuf from Ewekoro State Constituency.

Others were Ajayi Bolanle and Ganiyu Oyedeji from Egbado South and Ifo II State constituencies, andAjibola Sikiratu andAdemola Adeniran from Ipokia/Idiroko and Sagamu II constituencies.

February 15: Iyiola Omisore, a former deputy governor of Osun state defected from the SDP to the APC. February 16: Otunba Gbenga Daniel, a former Governor of Ogun State and campaign manager for the Presidential Candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party PDP in 2019, Atiku Abubakar, ditched the opposition for the ruling party.

February 23: At the House of Representatives, member representing Ondo East/West Hon. Abiola Peters Makinde left the ADC for APC. Continued on page 21

21

T H I S D AY ˾TUESDAY JANUARY 18, 2022

POLITICS

Buhari Commends Abiodun’s Giant Strides Tunde Oladunjoye writes that the recent visit to Ogun State by President Muhammadu Buhari brought to light the excellence of Governor Dapo Abiodun

N

ot a few people doubted whether President Muhammadu Buhari would visit Ogun State as expected last Thursday, though the State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, and his team continued in feverish pace the last-minute preparations to receive the President.

The air of doubt arose from the fact that the presidential visit had earlier been cancelled a day before the scheduled visit as a result of a clash with other presidential schedules.

Pronto, the Secretary to Ogun State Government, Mr. Tokunbo Talabi, issued a statement wherein he apologised for all inconveniences arising from the cancellation and assured that a new date would be announced soon.

Therefore, it was a soothing relief when, on Monday, January 10, the Presidency issued a statement confirming that President Buhari will be in Abeokuta on January 13 to commission “landmark projects of the Dapo Abiodun Administration.”

The press release, signed by the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Mr. Femi Adesina, titled “President Buhari to commission landmark projects in Ogun State”, confirmed that President Muhammadu Buhari will undertake a oneday official visit to Ogun State on Thursday, January 13, 2022, to commission landmark projects undertaken by the State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun.

“The President will commission the 42km Sagamu Interchange – Abeokuta dual carriageway, the new Kobape Housing Estate, located on the Sagamu - Abeokuta Interchange, and the first phase of Kings Court Estate, Abeokuta, developed by the Ogun State Property and Investment Corporation (OPIC). President Buhari, who will use the opportunity of his State visit to interact with some stakeholders, will return to Abuja the same day,” Adesina said.

The presidential statement became the needed elixir, for party leaders and members of the ruling party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), to finalise plans to give Mr. President a rousing welcome to Ogun State, a state President Buhari has always described as his second state because of his stay at Lafenwa Barracks, Abeokuta, during the early period

President Muhammadu Buhari (left) and Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State holding the symbolic key that confers Ogun indigeneship on Buhari

of his military career.

Last Thursday, all roads led to the Ogun State end of the 14-kilometre-long Ijebu-Ode–Epe Road, constructed by the Dapo Abiodun Administration. The party members, in their thousands, trooped out in large numbers as early as 7am, adorned in different shades of Adire and Ankara attires, in different styles, but with a touch of yellow.

The yellow colour, which is among the official colours of Ogun State, is synonymous signaturecolour of the Governor Dapo Abiodun-led Administration and this is evident on all the projects of the present government. The security operatives had a hectic time controlling the enthusiastic crowd.

President Muhammadu Buhari was welcomed with a thunderous ovation and shouts of “Sai Baba!

Sai Baba!” and “DA Continuity”, as he arrived the commissioning venue of the 14-kilometre newly constructed Ijebu-Ode – Mojoda- Epe Highway in company of the host Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun.

On the entourage of Mr. President were the Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, APC National Caretaker Chairman and Governor of Yobe State, Mai Mala Buni, among other top personalities, top government functionaries and many others.

The royal fathers from the Ijebu axis, under the auspices of the Ijebu Traditional Council (ITC), were led to the epoch event by Kabiyesi Alayeluwa, Oba Yinusa Adekoya, the Dagburewe of Idowa, who stood in for the Awujale and Paramount Ruler of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona.

Also present were former and serving members of the National Assembly, members of the Ogun State House of Assembly, Local Government Council Chairmen, Party Chairmen, market women, students and many more.

President Buhari wasted no time at all,

as he proceeded straight to cut the tapes to commission the road and thereafter led the dignitaries to Sagamu Interchange.

At the Gateway City Gate, even a more tumultuous crowd welcomed President Buhari and his entourage as it turned from a carnival to a festival. On arrival, Mr. President led dignitaries to move round the City Gate to feel and admire the ambience and splendour of the iconic tourist centre situated at the Roundabout that connects the three senatorial zones of the Gateway State, namely Ogun East, Ogun West and Ogun Central.

The Gateway City Gate could be rightly described as the heart of Ogun State and its outpouring infrastructures with beautiful embrace of nature. It was a beauty to behold.

It is a place that tourists and lovers alike would not be in a hurry to depart from.

It was at the Gateway City Gate that President Buhari paused briefly to interact with stakeholders of Ogun State before proceeding to cut the tapes to open the reconstructed Sagamu-Abeokuta Expressway, which has been renamed President Muhammadu Buhari Way; the Kobape Housing Estate and the luxurious Prince Court Estate in Abeokuta.

Admiring the Gateway City Gate Project, President Buhari remarked that: ‘‘It is not just a park beautification project. It depicts that something new is happening in Ogun State, a welcoming entrance into the State Capital at the centre point of the State.’’

He added that the project was also an icon depicting the joining of hands for building the future of Ogun State in togetherness.

It was a very elated President Buhari that addressed the people of Ogun State while also using the occasion to pour deserved encomiums on Governor Dapo Abiodun, for delivering visionary and trail-blazing projects for the people, despite the COVID-19 pandemic.

Describing Abiodun as the ‘‘performing Governor of Nigeria’s Gateway State,’’ the President said he is a worthy example of ‘‘promises made, promises kept.’’

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

APC: A Commendable Scorecard for Buni Just days before then, Hon. Blessing Onuh and Hon. Yakubu Abdullahi announced their defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

While, Onuh who represents Oturkpo/Ohimini Federal Constituency of Benue, joined the APC from the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Abdullahi who represents Bauchi Federal Constituency, also dumped the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP) for the APC. February 23: All the three lawmakers elected on the platform of the African Democratic Congress ADC in the Ogun State House of Assembly defected to the ruling All Progressives Congress.

Lawmakers who announced their defection during plenary included Jemili Akingbade, who was also the former Minority Whip, Adegoke Adeyanju, and Wahab Haruna.

March 12: A former Speaker of the House of Representatives and party chieftain in Ogun State, Hon. Dimeji Bankole left the PDP and pitched tent with the APC. March 17: Lawmaker representing the Egbado North/Imeko Afon Federal Constituency of Ogun State, Jimoh Aremu, moved from the African Democratic Congress ADC to the All Progressives Congress APC. March 26: On this day, Buni received former Chief of Army Staff, Lt.Gen. Azubike Ihejirika (Rtd)“Dike Abia” into the party.

Ihejirika was formally presented to the chairman by the Jigawa State Governor and Chairman APC Strategy and Contact committee Abubakar Badaru and Farouk Aliyu.

April 13: Samuel Tsebe, the member representing Akwanga South constituency in Nasarawa Assembly, dumped the PDP for the APC. May 20: Cross River State Governor, Prof. Ben Ayade officially ditched the PDP for the APC.

Constitution Review To ensure certainty on rules and regulations in the operations, management and conduct of APC affairs, the Caretaker Committee raised a team that reviewed its constitution.

Debts Settlement The party, also under the Buni-led Committee, scrutinised claims of inherited debts and paid them off.

“Prior to the constitution of the Caretaker Committee, many aggrieved members had sued the party. The Committee ended such litigations by reaching out to the aggrieved members who thankfully sheathed their swords,” Dambatta said.

Internal Democracy He argued further that the Buni-led Committee had established a basis for strong internal democracy through several new clauses in the APC amended constitution, “thereby making the party the most democratic of all existing political parties in the country.”

Perhaps alluding to this during an interview with the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) on January 6, the President foreclosed the possibility of foisting party leadership on members by any kingmaker.

Buhari said: “There is no kingmaker from Abuja. No constituency is being dictated to. All constituencies are supposed to produce their leadership in our party.

What other parties are doing is their own business, but we want to make sure that our party members understand that they

are respected. It is from polling unit, to ward to local government, to state and after Abuja. So, those who want to be elected at any level, let them work for it.

Nobody is going to appoint anybody.”

Party Headquarters Dambatta added: “The Caretaker Committee bought the party headquarters for less than N500 million and named it Buhari House, thus commendably giving the APC a permanent abode in the Federal Capital. This is poignant as one of the political parties was recently ejected from its rented office in Lagos for defaulting in paying rent to the landlord.

Digitised Membership “As other political parties lose members, the Caretaker Committee organised the revalidation of the party register and registered more members, thereby raising its membership to over 40 million as indicated earlier. The register is being digitised. All members have their photos and biometric information captured for authentication.

“The Caretaker Committee chaired

by Alhaji Mai Mala Buni established a Reconciliation Committee led by Senator Abdullahi Adamu which is reaching out to aggrieved members to end misunderstandings and proactively prevent crisis.

This will strengthen internal democracy and unity.”

The Task Ahead President Buhari in the NTA interview urged APC leaders to put their house in

order so that the ruling party can retain power in next year’s election.

He warned against the persistent differences, disunity and lack of agreement, which could put the platform in jeopardy during election.

He acknowledged the disagreement among APC leaders, which is delaying the party’s National Convention.

The APC Caretaker/Extraordinary Convention Planning Committee (CECPC) on January 11, 2022 also acknowledged some of these problems.

It, however, declared that resolution of various disputes arising from the recently conducted congresses and various litigations against the party remained its major priority, rather than picking a date for its National Convention.

The APC, in a statement signed by CECPC Secretary Akpanudoedehe, stated that the party would inform the public through the appropriate channel when it picks date for the convention.

“Dates for party activities such as meetings, primaries, congresses, National Conventions are communicated through well-known official channels and not through ‘sources.”

“The APC Caretaker Committee is already embarking on nationwide consultations with party stakeholders to prepare the ground for a rancour-free National Convention. To this end, the sub-committee on budgeting and other substructures will be set up in due course.

“Finally, the party notes and appreciates the continued support of well-meaning members and leaders as the APC Caretaker Committee undertakes the immediate task of addressing contestations within the party, litigations, fallouts of recently-conducted congresses and generally reposition the party ahead of the National Convention,” the statement read.

22

T H I S D AY ˾ DAY ͯͶ˜ 2022

FEATURES

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

LEO: Four Years of Simplifying Processes, Conversations Precious Ugwuzor reports that LEO, United Bank for Africa's Artificial Intelligence Chatbot which simplifies processes and conversations, recently clocked its fourth anniversary. While striving to remain Africa's leading Ai Chatbot, the bank intends to continuously change the face of digital banking in Nigeria

A

rtificial Intelligence (Ai) is the 'in thing' now. This is because globally, the hype around Artificial Intelligence keeps accelerating as the end goal is to simplify conversations and processes.

But if you are still in doubt, ask the United Bank for Africa (UBA). Through Leo, its flagship Ai Chatbot, which recently turned four, the Pan African bank has simplified the banking process for its millions of customers across the globe, while strengthening conversations.

Four years down the line, the Chat Bot has proven to be the most formidable artificial intelligence chat bot till date; serving an ever-increasing clientele who now have less transaction hassles to worry about.

For the bank, this fourth anniversary comes with an assurance of a new year filled with better and unparalleled service to its 4million subscribers.

LEO the Virtual Banker With the tagline "I am LEO an artificial intelligence personality bringing banking through a simple conversation", the Pan-African Bank's virtual banker has proven to be a chat buddy who is always available 24/7 and is an repository of knowledge, especially when it comes to helping with banking services.

The bot can amongst other things open an account, make transfers, buy airtime for yourself and others, check your account balance, send bank statements to embassies, freeze accounts, help with travel notifications, stop cheques, get your mini statement and make inquiries.

Summarily, the AI Chat Bot's goal is to make banking services less boring by making transactions simple, easy and fast just by having a conversation

Leo

Anniversary Offerings Africa’s global bank, United Bank for Africa has said that it has concluded plans to commemorate the fourth year anniversary of its flagship artificial intelligence Chabot, with new offerings set to further change the face of digital banking in Nigeria.

“Birthed January 11, 2018, with a firm resolve to prioritise its customers as well as put the bank at the heart of disruptive technologies that will transform the experience of esteemed customers, UBA did the unthinkable by getting 3 million users hooked in less than three years of its inception.”

Leo, which the bank stressed, has proven to be the most formidable artificial intelligence chat bot till date; serving an ever-increasing customer base who now have less transaction hassles to worry about, is currently available on Facebook Messenger, WhatsApp, Apple Business Chat To further extend its reach, UBA has concluded plans to commence Leo services on Instagram and Google Business, terrains none of its peers can lay claim to.

Changing the Face of Banking Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, UBA, Mr. Kennedy Uzoka, affirmed that UBA customers indeed agree that Leo is one of the bank’s biggest investments in cutting-edge technology and has been steadily changing the face of banking in the continent.

“Three years later, and with over almost 4 million customers and counting, UBA’s Leo, has without a doubt, remained the smartest Banking Chatbot in Nigeria because of its speed and quick learning intelligence and has continued to evolve with plenty to offer its teeming customers”.

“While other financial institutions are still trying to find their feet as regards Artificial Intelligence, we can proudly say that our Leo has become a massive success as it continues to consolidate on its successes and accolades winning several awards in a short while of its existence, “he added.

Uzoka continued: “In just four years, Leo’s landmark achievements have been indeed

Uzoka overwhelming, covering 20 African countries as well as garnering over 10 prestigious awards globally, a feat that is exceptional by every standard, I must say we are proud of Leo’s intimidating achievements which

is largely unbeatable”.

“With this in mind, we have ensured that, Leo continues to enjoy periodic and systematic upgrade with special emphasis on enhanced advancements and specialised

"Three years later, and with over almost 4 million customers and counting, UBA’s Leo, has without a doubt, remained the smartest Banking Chatbot in Nigeria because of its speed and quick learning intelligence and has continued to evolve with plenty to offer its teeming customers"

unique features where necessary”.

“UBA’s vision has always been and will remain to be a dominating force in Africa’s digital banking space. Our resolve is to provide unparalleled experience across all channels.

"We are a technology-driven institution with vast knowledge in the business that we do and Leo, being a tested, dependable and intelligent personality, did well to replicate on WhatsApp the success it recorded on the Facebook Messenger platform where it started its journey and later on the IOS (iPhone Operating System) platform.

"It is a solution that is from the customer’s standpoint, easy to use by anyone regardless of demography. Leo is always ready and waiting to help with any form of banking service,” Uzoka said.

Uzoka further explained that Leo is already present in 20 African countries and in three languages and has a number of rich and robust features bound to mesmerise existing and potential customers with services that are extremely fast and secure as all transactions and enquiries are encrypted, end-to-end.

“Leo has the ability to do a wide range of things, including funds transfer, call card top-up, checking of account balance, retrieval of bank statements, instant account openings for new customers, statement to embassy/other banks/ microfinance, purchase of airtime/ data, paying of bills (LCC, PHCN, Cable TV), effectively helping with savings and spend limit.

“The AI chatbot also boosts of remarkable innovative features that allows customers make banking Services – Request/stop/confirm Cheques, Block card, Log & track complaints, ATM/Branch Locator, Freeze accounts, and check weather etc.

"Other features include Customer Care complaint resolution, linking of new account, flight Payment, linking and Funding of Prepaid Card, Travel Notification, Wakanow services and Dubai Visa service," he explained.

The GMD also pointed out that, customers who have engaged with Leo are more than delighted about their experience and credit it for automatically extracting account details without hassles, adding that “testimonies abound about how it is generally easier to use Leo compared to its counterparts.

"For example, Leo automatically detects account numbers via a customer’s WhatsApp mobile number and goes ahead to seamlessly help customers check their account balance as well as top-up airtime”.

23

T H I S D AY ˾ DAY JANUARY 18, 2022

FEATURES

Leadership in Africa: The Road to Redemption Jennifer Dumle Daniel

T

he world seems to be lacking depth on the leadership front, visionary and impactful leadership now resides in Santa’s bag and that's if Covid19/Omicron allows Santa to open the bag at all. Present-day ‘leaders’ are held up in sectoral politics and individual interests, which are bearing devastating effects on the businesses/the world and threatening to make them fall apart. Since the passing of Prof Kofi Anan and Nelson Mandela, two outstanding leadership templates of the African continent, almost every news bit from the continent on leadership has been an echo of disappointment. From the poor management of the continent’s resources to the lacklustre initiation and execution of projects; for emphasis, see the purported loss of Uganda’s only international airport to China over a loan facility.

As a scholar of entrepreneurship and innovation, I have been opportune to meet great Africans with brilliant ideas that somehow never translate to value. With the surge in global energy demand and supply, population growth, and diplomatic relations we can see a widening gap between the haves and the have-nots and even worse still between developed nations and the so-called under or undeveloped ones.

Is there a curse or conspiracy against Africa to continually remain under the table in the scheme of things? I doubt it, in the midst of all the chaos, the antecedents of certain black swans are proof that as a continent, we cannot be randomly fooled into believing that there is no hope for us.

As a matter of fact, Africa is endowed with phenomenal minds that can indeed harness its resources of genuine value creation and wealth distribution.

Taking a deeper look at the subject, “depth and quantum” on the leadership front at least from an African perspective, evidently, the likes of Herbert Wigwe of Access Bank, Allen Onyema of Air peace, Tony Elumelu, Alhaji Aliko Dangote who does not need any introduction, have done exceptionally

Jennifer well by creating wealth not just for themselves but for the wider society even if it’s just about the employment opportunities they have created for Nigerians. This is what we call leadership! On the political front we have also seen Governor Jide Sanwo Olu, El Rufai, Obaseki, Wike of Rivers state all making efforts to touch society in one way or the other, but for Nigeria to stand any chance of achieving the much-needed escape velocity into the committee of developed nations we will need a much larger critical mass both within the private and political sectors.

When I look across the oil and gas industry also known as the “main goose” laying the golden dollars for Nigeria, we are looking for a new generation of leaders who will take the mantle of leadership to help Nigeria through the ongoing changes globally as energy becomes redefined and new political power

blocks are born on the back of what natural resources they have to and to renewables. I hear gas will continue to be important in the world of energy and that Nigeria has plenty of it which begs the question of why we are not enjoying it even if it is just the LPG to cook at home, but that’s a matter for another day.

The whole gas conversation reminds me of the encomiums showered on the immediate past MD of NLNG – Engineer Dr. Tony Atta who led his team positively with the support of their shareholders delivered the biggest project in the industry if not the only project today – Train7! The FID and EPC contract helped boost the image of Nigeria as a viable investment route and more importantly offers hope and succour to society through the over 12000 direct jobs and about 30000 additional indirect jobs to preserve the dignity of the average Nigerian for the next 5 to 6 years when the project is delivered. The colossal success of Tony Atta is pure motivation for Africans to believe in their dreams. Tony Attah’s track record at the NLNG where he assumed the mantle of leadership as the CEO/MD from 2016 until 2021 is astonishing. Under his leadership, the vision, strategy, and adaptability of the NLNG have become a positive case study for business schools on what ‘true leadership’ is. The trust of the NLNG stakeholders that invested billions of dollars and entrusted expansion strategies into the hands of Atta and his team gives credence to the quality of his leadership; which has brought about a positive impact in measurable growth in both revenue and market share. This leadership and the outcome should make for a very good case study to enable us to replicate these elsewhere!

To better appreciate the magnitude of the ‘Attah success’ a look at a simple fact sheet will be highly beneficial. As at 2020, approximately 20 years after its first shipment, NLNG became the fourth largest LNG exporter in the world, with six fully operational trains and a seventh train underway.

With six trains operating, Nigeria produces 22 million tonnes of LNG annually (over

6 million tonnes above Indonesia, the fifth largest world exporter). The seventh train is projected to increase production to 30 million tonnes annually. At its current production rate, Nigeria supplies nearly 10% of the world’s LNG consumption, holds over 7% of the global LNG market share, and produces more LNG than other African countries.

The bittersweet news is that Attah has left the NLNG since July 2021 and is now set to also leave SHELL in early 2022; the sweet side is that he should now be more available to help us move to the next level.

I am sure he is retiring but definitely not tired! His pedigree and track record is a clear unequivocal incentive for the world, especially the energy industry to engage him for exponential dimensions of growth. His ability to lead the NLNG to Final Investment Decision (FID) on the $10 Billion, 7th train is the kind of competence that a Nigerian Petroleum Minister or OPEC representative must possess. The FID and EPC contracts signed under his leadership increased the capacity of the NLNG by 35%. For the people that do not know his antecedent in the oil and gas industry, what he has delivered at the NLNG in the last five years should suffice in recruiting you as a fan. He is seasoned and has shown his worth on the biggest stage – no scandal, just results, and satisfied stakeholders; especially the immediate environment that are the beneficiaries of the highest standards of social responsibility (the Bodo – Bonny 39 KM road is a first of its kind). As a nation, we must take advantage of his availability, give him the trust and tools he requires to transform our energy fortunes in no time.

Let us also scan the industry and indeed the entire nation for more like him to pool together the critical mass we need within the private and public sectors to move Nigeria faster to that next level and not risk being left further behind economically and in development.

-Jennifer Dumle Daniel is a Ph.D. candidate of the Centre for Innovation & Entrepreneurship, University of Bristol

RIP Desmond Tutu Tony Ademiluyi

W

hen the battle against the sinister force of apartheid in South Africa which was dismantled with the emergence of black majority rule led by Madiba Nelson Mandela in 1994 is told, one name will forever remain prominent. That name is Desmond Mpilo Tutu.

Tutu initially wanted to be a medical doctor but his parents’ abject poverty threw the spanner in the works of that noble dream to save lives. He then turned his attention to the teaching profession and qualified as a teacher in 1951.

He spent four years there and encountered his first brush with apartheid when in 1953 the white minority National Party introduced the Bantu Education Act which further entrenched apartheid in the teaching profession in the later to be known Rainbow Nation. Disillusioned with this, the then young Tutu and his newly married wife, Leah decided to quit the profession.

Tutu decided to become a clergyman as he saw the priesthood as a way of greatly influencing minds for good especially in the face of mounting tension in the country as a result of the evil apartheid regime which was getting more brutal by the day.

He was ordained an Anglican Priest in 1960 and in a twist of fate returned to the teaching profession after a move to East Jerusalem in 1966 where he studied Arabic and Greek before his return to the country.

He was able to combine both professions effortlessly well.

He used the pulpit to air his views against apartheid and threw his weight behind the international calls for an economic boycott of South Africa as a way to dismantle the oppressive regime.

Tutu was a highly controversial figure

Late Desmond Tutu in his lifetime who was viewed with suspicion by everybody both for and against the struggle. The militant wing of the then banned African National Congress hated him with a fiery passion since he didn’t endorse the armed struggle which they stood for.

Marxists didn’t like him because of his anti Marxist position which was at variance with what they stood for. Caucasian conservatives who were pro apartheid found a common foe in him while white liberals found him too radical.

His popular interview in 1979 when he hosted some Dutch journalists where he called for an economic boycott of South Africa led to his passport being confiscated by the regime.

This greatly raised his profile as a freedom fighter. When his

passport was returned to him in 1981, he embarked on a tour of Europe and North America where he met some world leaders including the then United Nations SecretaryGeneral, Kurt Waldheim, Pope John Paul II, where he called for an end to apartheid and gave a sermon in Westminster Abbey.

When he returned to South Africa, the then President Botha ordered that his passport be seized for a period of 17 months which prevented him from receiving some honourary degrees from some universities.

In September 1982, he addressed the Triennial Convention of the Episcopal Church in New Orleans which received a large acclaim by both the listeners and the press.

He built a cult like followership in the United States and was often compared to the legendary Dr. Martin Luther King Jr though some of his critics in Uncle Sam dismissed him as a communist sympathizer.

He was a nominee for the Nobel Peace Prize in 1981, 1982 and 1983 before he finally won it in 1984. Some analysts posited that the selection committee was looking for a less controversial figure than Mandela to give the prize to.

By the 1980’s his stature as a liberation figure was second only to Mandela. The white controlled white media back in South Africa heavily criticized his choice and greatly downplayed it by dismissing him as a lightweight. The award was a gargantuan plus to the struggle as it showed that there was an international endorsement for it.

The heady days of the 1980’s saw frequent violent clashes between angry and embittered black youths and the security forces. Tutu was often invited to speak at funerals and rallies where he still maintained his anti-violent stance. He used his highly influential position as the Bishop of Johannesburg which was the country’s

largest diocese to lend his voice against the brutal regime of Botha.

The ANC called on all black South Africans to make the country ungovernable which Botha responded with a state of emergency leading to many foreign multinationals divesting which led to a surge in the unemployment rate among the youths.

He called for a strike against the apartheid regime which angered the trade unions as the latter weren’t first consulted before his pronouncement.

In 1986 he received the Martin Luther King Jr Non Violent Peace Prize and held the record of being the first Black South African to be made Bishop of both Johannesburg and Cape Town.

After apartheid was dismantled and Mandela became the first Black South African President, he was made the Head of the Truth and Reconciliation Committee between 1996 and 1998 to heal the wounds and unite the country. He ensured that there were no reprisal on the Caucasians who the blacks still bore lots of hatred for.

Despite Tutu’s efforts in the anti-apartheid struggle, he was still hated by some youth members of the ANC who still saw him as a saboteur for not backing the armed struggle.

They ensured that he wasn’t invited for Nelson Mandela’s funeral in 2013 and he had to smuggle himself in and give a speech.

He retired as the Bishop of Cape Town in 1996 but was still vocal on human rights issues from a global perspective. He lent his voice to the sturdy backing of gay rights and had a famous quote where he said: “I would not worship a God who is homophobic and that is how deeply I feel about this”.

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

24

TUESDAY, ͹΀˜ ͺ͸ͺͺ ˾ T H I S D AY

THE ALTERNATIVE

with RenoOmokri

Hausa Are Nigeria’s Most Marginalised Major Ethnicity

O

ne of the biggest myths existing in Nigeria today is that the current system of government that we have, which is a false federation, that is, in fact, a unitary system, is a creation of Northern Nigeria to dominate other parts of Nigeria.

Yes, Northern Nigeria is heavily benefiting from it. Northern Nigeria is sustaining it.

However, Northern Nigeria did not create it. And when oil runs its course as a commercially viable commodity, it is even possible that Northern Nigeria itself may come to a position where it does not even find it as attractive as it once did.

And this myth that our present faux federalism is a Northern construct has persisted for the simple reason that Nigerians hardly read about or study their history. As a people, we are, with a few exceptions, focused on the here and now, without much thought to how we got to where we are.

The recent public tiff between two very famous letter-writers (the revered Chief Obasanjo, and Chief EK Clark), has again raised more dust over this matter.

Yes, the system of government that we have now is not the template our founding fathers dreamt about. That Nigeria ended on January 15, 1966.

Prior to that unfortunate day, believe it or not, Nigeria had four regions that were treated as co-equals and who controlled all the resources in their domains.

Let me put this in perspective: Section 140 of the 1963 Constitution did indeed vest rights and powers over mineral resources including oil on the central government via the Exclusive Legislative List. However, this was mitigated by the stipulation that 50% of the royalties from minerals would be paid to the regions from which they originated.

Section 141 of the 1963 Republican Constitution of Nigeria created a Distributable Pool Account, of which the three regions (Northern, Western, and Eastern regions) would pay in 35% of their revenue. A fourth region (Midwestern region), was created and added to the pool in 1963.

That Distributable Pool Account is the forerunner of today’s Federation Account.

In 1964, the Balewa government accepted the recommendations of the Binns Commission on revenue allocation, which provided that the funds paid to the Distributable Pool Account be shared among the four regions, using the following formula: Northern Region-42% Eastern Region-30% Western Region-20% Mid-Western Region-8%.

Other than these monies that got paid to the Distributable Pool Account, and 25% to the Central Government (now known as the Federal Government), the regions had total and complete resource control.

And to a large extent, everyone was happy.

What upended this idyllic state that Nigeria existed in was the January 15, 1966 coup, commonly referred to as the Nzeogwu coup, but which was more accurately an Emmanuel Ifeajuna coup.

Though the coup succeeded in decapitating the Balewa-led central government, it was not totally successful, and was put down by the then-General Officer Commanding the Nigerian Army, Major General Johnson Aguiyi-Ironsi, who subsequently became Head of State.

It was Ironsi, as a military dictator, who actually ended true federalism in Nigeria by promulgating Decree No. 34 of 1966, which was also known as the Unification of Assets decree.

The preamble to that decree read as follows: “Subject to the provisions of this Decree, Nigeria shall on 24th May 1966 (in this decree referred to as ‘the appointed day’) cease to be a Federation and shall accordingly as from that day be a Republic, by the name of the Republic of Nigeria, consisting of the whole of the territory which immediately before that day was comprised in the Federation.”

Ironsi Ironsi thereafter stripped the regions and their appurtenances of any power over their resources and assets and domiciled such powers hitherto held by them on the ‘National Military Government’ headed by him.

Many of his critics felt that Ironsi’s decree was the handiwork of his three-man advisory committee, and the fact that all members of that committee were Igbo (Chief Francis Nwokedi, Dr Pius Charles Nwabafor Okigbo and Colonel Patrick Anwunah) did not help matters.

There were protests in the North and the Governor of the Midwest, David Ejoor, spoke against the idea.

In the North, the protests led to riots and then a pogrom, and set off a chain reaction of events too gruesome to recount here, lest I open old wounds. What I would however say, and I do not care whose ox is gored, is that there was no justification for the escalated pogrom against the Igbo, other than the perpetration of the ideology of balance of terror. And indeed, there was no balance. So, it is more accurate to use the term an ‘imbalance of terror’. But I digress.

The point I am trying to make is that the death of resource control and centralisation and concentration of power in the centre was not the creation of subsequent governments.

And though I love and admire former President Obasanjo, he is both right and wrong in his quarrel with Chief EK Clarke.

Yes, as of today, oil belongs to Nigeria as a whole. However, that has not always been the case. If we go by the 1960 and 1963 constitutions, which all Nigerian regions existing at the time had an input into, resources, such as oil, cocoa and groundnuts, and other minerals, belonged to the regions.

It was the military, beginning from Ironsi, to Gowon, and their military successors, including General Obasanjo himself, that forcefully took what had rightfully belonged to the regions.

And when they set up their various Constitution Committees and conferences, regions, like the South-South, and the Southeast, no longer had a voice. Their voices were drowned out by the voices of the majority, and this was the very thing they feared before independence, which made the British colonial government set up the Commission on Minority Groups in Nigeria (Willink Commission) to protect minorities by giving them a voice.

If the minorities, whose fears made the colonial government set up the commission, had known what Ironsi and his military suc-

Gowon

Abdulsalami Abubakar

cessors were going to do, they would have opted out of Nigeria, which was an option available to them.

Decree 34 killed regionalism and true federalism and was a most unwise move from Aguiyi Ironsi that Nigeria is still paying for today.

And it further exacerbates the situation when Southerners, especially people of Southeastern origin, accuse the Hausa of dominating them.

I was reading something like that by a journalist of Southeastern extraction and it made me laugh. This fellow is a journalist and broadcaster. Meaning that he is meant to inform the public. Yet, he is ignorant. Very ignorant.

The extent to which supposedly intelligent and educated people expose their ignorance is really sad. And it is a very ignorant thing to say that the Hausa have dominated politics in Nigeria.

The truth is that only one Hausa man has ever governed Nigeria, and he governed for only nine months (Abdulsalami Abubakar).

Murtala Mohammed and Muhammadu Buhari were/are partly Fulani. None of them had Hausa blood.

Only Murtala’s mother was Fulani, and just Buhari’s father was Fulani. Both of them grew up without their fathers.

The only pure Fulani to have governed Nigeria was Shehu Shagari, perhaps one of the most decent human beings this land has ever produced.

Umaru Musa Yar’adua was Tuareg.

Tafawa Balewa was from an ethnic nationality called Gere, which are one of the first Northern people to accept Western-style Christianity, and education.

Yakubu Gowon is alive and can testify that he is an Ngas by ethnic origin.

I left Ibrahim Babangida to the end, because, as is typical with most things Babangida, his ethnicity is deliberately shrouded in controversy.

And because of that, I will not add to that controversy beyond saying he is of an uncertain ethnicity.

Sani Abacha was pure Kanuri, although he claimed to be from Kano.

The conclusion of the matter is that Hausa domination is a MYTH! And ever since the Shehu Uthman Dan Fodio Fulani Jihad of 1804–1808, the Hausa have been the most denigrated, downgraded and marginalised ethnicity in the geographical entity that is now known as Nigeria.

Even the one Hausa man that became Head

of State for nine months, Abdulsalami Abubakar, got there purely by chance. He was to be retired by Abacha, but Abacha died before he could sign his retirement papers. Oladipo Diya, who would have automatically taken over as Abacha’s deputy, had been convicted of coup plotting. Leaving Abdulsalami as the next in line according to military hierarchy.

That is how God gave Nigeria her ONLY Hausa leader till date.

Many people erroneously think Jerry Useni was next in line and was passed over because the military authorities wanted a Muslim as the next head of state. That is false.

In a military government, the hierarch is as follows: The Head of State and Commander-in-Chief at the head of the military echelon.

The Chief of General Staff, or the Chief of Staff, Supreme Military Council as the Number two.

The Chief of Defence Staff as Number three.

The Chief of Army Staff as number four.

Soldiers holding political positions are not included in the military hierarchy of power and the line of succession. Remember, it is or was a military government.

To that journalist of Southeast extraction who is complaining of Yoruba/Hausa domination.

Yes, I can understand the Yoruba accusation.

But the Hausa are actually more marginalised than the Igbo.

An Igbo has been at the helm once. And Igbo have been deputies or Vice President twice, with Alex Ekwueme and Ebitu Ukiwe.

Speaking generally, and to no one in particular, those Nigerians who shout marginalisation the most must get rid of their deep-seated persecution complex that makes them see enemies where there are none. It is becoming a self-fulfilling prophecy that is preventing them as a people from achieving many of their long-term strategic goals, chief of which is having a Nigerian President of their ethnic origin.

Even you, if you enter a room and before you enter, you believe everyone in the room hates you, you will not be confident when you enter, and as a result of your lack of confidence, you won’t make friends. And you will blame it on them not liking you.

Most of those who instigated the crisis of 1966-1970 are dead. Move on. This is politics.

There are no permanent friends or enemies.

Only permanent interests. Focus your energies on your interests, not your enemies!

LAWYER TUESDAY, JANUARY 18, 2022

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LATE SYLVESTER OROMONI

Sylvester Oromoni’s Death: Is there a Coverup?

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II

TUESDAY, JANUARY 18, 2022 • T H I S D AY

IN THIS EDITION

LAWYER A

TUE SDAY, JAN

UARY 18, 202

LLOUT WEEKLY PU

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Procedure Challenging Incompetent Grounds of Appeal Where Other Competent Grounds Exist

ON

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R OROMONI LATE SYLVESTE

Page IV

Guy Ikokwu Passes On at 85

eath: D s i’ n o m o r O r e t Sylves p?

Is there a Coveru

Page V

QUOTABLES ‘For President of the country, all you have to do is to meet the threshold of being educated up to secondary level…sponsored by a political party….

That is one of the lowest entry point qualifications, for any office.’ - Oluwole Osaze-Uzzi, Legal Practitioner, former INEC National Commissioner ‘I do not know a single Governor in this country, that truly believes in the Constitution. They have desecrated the Local Government system, the State Electoral Commission, the State Judiciary. Some of them have even annexed the Judiciary, as part of their Ministry of Justice.’ - Inibehe Effiong, Human Rights Lawyer & Good Governance Advocate

LAWYER

Aelex Law Firm Inaugurates Alumni Page V

ONIKEPO BRAITHWAITE: EDITOR, JUDE IGBANOI: DEPUTY EDITOR, PETER TAIWO, STEVE AYA: REPORTERS

III THE ADVOCATE

T H I S D AY • TUESDAY, JANUARY 18, 2022

Oromoni’s Dying Declaration as Evidence

M

y editorial of last week, ‘Oromoni: Jumping the Gun’, elicited a great deal of response from you my Readers. Thank you. Due to space constraints, I have only reproduced a few of these comments below.

Even though this particular topic is a sad one, it makes me glad that many are taking a keen interest in what is happening around us, and speaking out. This is one of the most peaceful ways, that we can effect positive change in our society - articulating our views and making constructive criticism. Hopefully, those in power will develop a culture of reading, reflecting, taking constructive criticism in good faith, correcting wrong actions and taking the right steps.

Dying Declaration One of the phrases that was mentioned recently in relation to this unfortunate incident, was ‘Dying Declaration’. Some have argued that, the statement alleged to have been made by late Sylvester Oromoni before his death, mentioning the names of some of his school mates, and stating that they forced him to ingest an obnoxious substance because he refused to join their group, qualifies as his dying declaration which should be investigated thoroughly, because it is extremely relevant in ascertaining the truth in this matter. Indeed, if he made such statement, it is a dying declaration. But, such statement should be corroborated, that is, there must be ‘evidence which confirms or supports’ his statement, possibly like the Delta State autopsy report (see Section 209(3) of the Evidence Act 2011 (EA).

A dying declaration is: `“The statement of a mortally injured person who is aware that he/ she is about to die, telling who caused the injury and possibly the circumstances (“Usman shot me”). Although hearsay since the dead person cannot testify in person, it is admissible on the theory that a dying person has no reason not to tell the truth….A dying declaration is a statement made by a person who may die from the injury received from a person whom the deceased person identified as the person who inflicted on him (the deceased), the injury that eventually caused his death…..It is one of the exceptions to the rule of direct evidence, to prove a fact in issue” - per Omaje JCA in Okoro v State 2007 2 N.W.L.R. Part 1019 Page 530 at 544-545. It is an exception to the rule of hearsay. What is considered to be relevant, is the statement made by the deceased while still alive, as to the cause of his/her death. By virtue of this definition, one can safely say that Sylvester Oromoni’s statement/allegation against his school mates, is a dying declaration (aka death bed declaration or ante mortem statement). Why did he single out these specific school mates? What would have been the reason for him not to tell the truth, when he was in such a bad condition? Also see Ekpo Isong v State 2009 1 N.W.L.R. Part 1122 Page 354 at 368; Ezeugo v State 9 N.W.L.R. Part 1360 Page 508 at 576 per Saulawa JCA (as he then was).

In the past, Section 33 of the old Evidence Act 1955, which provided for circumstances in which a dying declaration would be relevant provided thus: “Statements, written or verbal, or relevant facts made by a person who is dead, are themselves relevant facts….(a) when the statement is made as to the cause of his death, or as to any circumstances of the transaction which resulted in his death, in cases in which the cause of the person’s death comes into question…..”. Additionally, the person must have believed himself or herself to be in danger of death, even if he may have had hopes of recovering, and that there must have been a trial for murder or manslaughter of the deceased person, for such statement of a deceased person to be relevant.

However, though Section 40 of the EA regurgitates the old Section 33, 40(1) has jettisoned the proviso that there must be a trial for murder or manslaughter of the deceased person, for such ante mortem statement to be relevant. It seems absurd that a dying declaration which should be crucial to an investigation of the death of an individual, would be seen as relevant only in a proper trial when it should be the basis of the investigation into the death. Thankfully, the said Section 40(1) has made such statement admissible in any proceeding in which the cause of death comes into question. This obviously includes the Investigation/Coroner’s Inquest.

have to be issued.

Editor

ONIKEPO BRAITHWAITE

Dear Editor, Your article on Sylvester Oromoni’s matter, is absolutely spot on. The authorities disappointedly were ahead of themselves, as they ought to have tarried a while for a comprehensive investigation, autopsy and indeed, probed the alleged cult of bullies in the College. Brilliant write up.

onikepo.braithwaite@thisdaylive.com onikepob@yahoo.com Twitter: @TheAdvocate

The

A.A.R.

Advocate

Dear Editor, Could it be that the authorities had already made up their minds about how the outcome of this case would be, even before the outcome of any investigation or Inquest?

A.A.

“…..the statement alleged to have been made by late Sylvester Oromoni before his death, mentioning the names of some of his school mates, and stating that they forced him to ingest an obnoxious substance because he refused to join their group, qualifies as his dying declaration which should be investigated thoroughly, because it is extremely relevant in ascertaining the truth in this matter”

Dear Editor, Re: Oromoni: Jumping the Gun Dear Editor True. They all jumped the gun. I cannot agree more with you more. I am a UK trained Police Surgeon and work with Coroners.

Dr D.O., London, UK Dear Editor, I do not believe that the function of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) is contingent upon that of a Coroner’s Inquest, and therefore, I don’t agree that in the Sylvester Oromoni case, the advice of the DPP was premature because the Coroner's Inquest is just starting, and his final report had not been issued. They are independent of each other.

O.O, Lagos Dear O.O., While the office of the DPP is obviously independent, in circumstances such as this, the Coroner’s System Law (CSL) has set out the procedure to be adopted in such a matter as this. While the CSL may need to be fine tuned to be more explicit, it seems absurd that the DPP’s advice can be given without the final outcome of an Inquest whose purpose is to establish the cause of death. It’s akin to putting the cart before the horse! One of the main functions of the DPP is to give legal advice on whether a matter should be prosecuted or not, based on the Police file. Which file would that be? Should the Police file not include the documents referred to in Sections 41 & 42 of the CSL? Section 41 of the CSL provides that the Coroner should forward his/her written verdict to certain officials including the Divisional Police Officer in the District where the inquest was

held upon completion of the Inquest. Why is this so, if the Coroner’s verdict is not required, and it is simply an academic exercise? Section 42 of the CSL goes on to provide that, where the Coroner suspects that unknown person may be liable for the offence which is the subject-matter of the Inquest, the record of proceedings of the Inquest shall be certified to that effect and transmitted to the DPO for further action. To me, this implies that for any advice to be complete in such a matter as this, Sections 41 & 42 must be complied with first.

If the outcome of the Inquest is in consonance with the autopsy report which forms a part of the Inquest, all well and good; but, if it differs from it, it could make nonsense out of the DPP’s advice which preceded it. It therefore follows that, the logical sequence (supported by the aforementioned provisions) is that a Coroner’s Inquest should be completed, before the DPP’s advice is given.

In 2019, I was part of the team that accompanied the Attorney-General of Ekiti State on a visit to the Lagos DNA Laboratory (which was damaged during the carnage that took place the day after the #EndSARS Protest). We were shown sophisticated equipment which other labs in Nigeria, and indeed, many parts of Africa do not have, and were told that many labs send samples to them for further analysis, also in criminal cases in order to solve crimes.

To further buttress my point, what if in such a case as this, the Coroner ordered that samples from the deceased are sent to a lab like the Lagos DNA Laboratory after receiving the autopsy reports, and things which could not be detected from the autopsies carried out at the lab in Delta State or the Lagos hospital were detected in the DNA Lab which debunk the initial findings of the previous reports, or she’d more light. What would then happen? A new autopsy report would be reissued; a new suspect could emerge; further investigation may be required. A new legal advice may

Dear Editor, You are spot on. I was shocked when a Doctor who observed the autopsy came to defend the autopsy on Arise TV. O.O., Lagos Dear Editor, You are so right. Thank you for speaking our minds.

Thank you for your comments on the lack of duty of care by key parties.

O.O., Lagos Dear Editor, You laid it out clearly and succinctly, and I will follow your lead and not jump to conclusions yet. However, I do not trust due process in our country!

F.A. Dear Editor, I don’t think anything different will emerge from the Coroner’s Inquest. I do not see a situation where one Lagos State official, will publicly go against the other. The pace has already been set, by the DPP’s somewhat premature advice. I doubt that the Coroner will denounce the DPP, or the Lagos State Commissioner of Police. This is just how our country is.

S.E. Dear Editor, A very painful episode and many unanswered questions. I agree with your editorial 100%. Let the proper legal processes and procedures be followed.

This is such a delicate case, and one where there should be no shortcuts to rush to judgements. I’m not a Lawyer, but I was surprised by the way the Police Commissioner rushed to hold a press conference. I agree with you, let the Coroner’s inquest be held, and let’s hear what comes out of that. Also, the allegation of bullying or cultism in the school, must be investigated further. Regardless of where one stands on this matter though, the sad fact is that this poor young boy died when he probably didn’t need to. My heart still bleeds for him. It makes one so sad. Poor little boy. May he rest in perfect peace. Amen.

S.I. Dear Editor, Excellent review and analysis of the process that should have been adopted. It is amazing how incompetence has become the norm in everything in Nigeria. From the investigation of the collapsed building, to this case. In such a sensitive matter, no stone should be left unturned to ensure that the right process is adopted to restore confidence, and equally important, to provide justice to Sylvester.

K.M. Dear Editor, Yet another dark stain in the annals of the investigatory role of our country’s law enforcement, and the somersaults in the legal prosecutorial sector.

Well done as usual, Editor.

S.A. SAN

Conclusion How thorough was the Police investigation, into all the matters arising in this case - especially with regard to allegations of bullying and all sorts of unacceptable behaviour said to have occurred in this case and in the College? Not only does the Police investigation seem shoddy and hurried, the Lagos State Police Commissioner seemed to have drawn most of his conclusions from the autopsy report. The Coroner’s Inquest in the matter of the death of Sylvester Oromoni commenced last Saturday. We shall await the outcome, and hope that whichever way it goes, justice is served for the sake of this little boy.

#upjudicialsalaries

Late Sylvester Oromoni

This Day Lawyer, in 2022, will focus on the need to improve judicial salaries, allowances and conditions of service. It is simply unconscionable that Judicial Officers across our courts, have been on the same salaries for more than a decade. Subsequent editions will serve as a reminder to the Buhari administration, the need to take immediate steps to ensure that a call to the Bench, is not a call to penury and servitude.

IV LAW REPORT

TUESDAY, JANAURY 18, 2022 • T H I S D AY

Procedure Challenging Incompetent Grounds of Appeal Where Other Competent Grounds Exist Facts On 14th September, 2000, late Chief Julius Abiodun Fasakin died and he was survived by the Appellants and the 1st Respondent (from different mothers). On 3rd November, 2000, the 2nd Respondent produced two Wills dated 30th April, 1999 and 1st March, 2000 respectively which had been lodged at the Probate Registry of High Court of Lagos State. Thereafter, the 2nd Respondent read the Will dated 1st March 2000 which revoked the Will dated 30th April, 1999, by operation of law.

After the reading of the Will dated 1st March, 2000, the 1st Respondent entered a caveat seeking to prohibit the grant of probate of the said Will. As Executors and Trustees of the Will, the Appellants filed a suit against the 1st Respondent seeking various declarative reliefs, which were granted by the trial court. In effect, the trial court held that the Will dated 1st March, 2000, was the authentic and last testament of the Late Chief Julius Abiodun Fasakin, and the Will dated 30th April, 1999 was revoked.

Aggrieved by this decision, the 1st Respondent appealed to the Court of Appeal, Lagos Division. The appellate court, in its judgement, set aside the decision of the trial court delivered on 19th January, 2005.

The court further dismissed the Appellants’ claim contained in the Statement of Claim dated 22nd March, 2001, and declared that the Will dated 30th April, 1999 is the last and valid Will and Testament of the Late Chief Julius Abiodun Fasakin.

Aggrieved by the decision of the lower court, the Appellants filed a Notice of Appeal on 21st May, 2009 containing seven Grounds of Appeal. In reaction, the 1st Respondent filed a motion challenging the competence of grounds 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 7 of the Notice and Grounds of Appeal, and prayed the court to strike out the issues distilled from the said Grounds of Appeal for being incompetent.

Issue(s) for Determination The Apex Court determined first, the motion challenging the competence of some of the Grounds of Appeal, the effect of which rendered a sole issue for determination in the substantive appeal.

The issue for consideration in the interlocutory application was: Whether Grounds 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 7 of the Appellants’ Notice of Appeal and the issues distilled therefrom, being grounds of facts or mixed law and facts and raised without obtaining leave of court as mandated under Section 233(3) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999, are not invalid and liable to be struck out.

In the substantive appeal, the following sole issue was considered by the court: Whether the Court of Appeal was right by jettisoning and disregarding the Appellants’ brief of argument, on the ground that same was obtuse.

Arguments The 1st Respondent filed a Motion on Notice challenging the competence of grounds 1, 2, 3 4, 5 and 7 of the Notice of Appeal, and

of the appeal. Further, the court is at liberty to reformulate issues itself based on the Grounds of Appeal, and not necessarily those formulated by parties. He relied on the case of STERLING CIVIL ENGINEERING (NIGERIA) LTD v YAHAYA (2005) 11 NWLR (Pt. 955) 204, in support of his argument. In a bid to demonstrate that the evidence of both parties were equally examined, counsel for the 1st Respondent highlighted instances where the lower court considered the submissions of counsel for the Appellants in the judgement delivered.

Honourable John Inyang Okoro, JSC In the Supreme Court of Nigeria Holden at Abuja On Friday, the 4th day of June, 2021 Before Their Lordships

Mary Ukaego Peter-Odili John Inyang Okoro Ejembi Eko Ibrahim Muhammad Musa Saulawa Adamu Jauro Justices, Supreme Court SC.244/2009 Between 1.

2.

3.

4.

Mrs. Olajumoke Siwoku Mr. Olasupo Fasakin Olatunde Fasakin Olufunmilayo Fasakin

1.

2.

Mr. Oladayo Fasakin The Probate Registrar, High Court of Lagos State

Appellants

And Respondents

(Lead Judgement delivered by Honourable John Inyang Okoro, JSC)

praying the court to strike out the said grounds and issues distilled therein. The grouse of the application was premised on the fact that the said grounds were of facts or mixed law and facts, which were raised without obtaining the requisite leave of court as mandated under Section 233(3) of the 1999 Constitution, and as such, were invalid.

In response, counsel for the Appellants argued that the said Motion on Notice being a Preliminary Objection was incompetent, for failure on the part of

“The law is trite that where a Respondent complains of the competence of some grounds of appeal, as in this appeal, and there exist other grounds which can sustain the appeal, the Respondent ought to file a motion on notice to strike out the incompetent ground(s) and not a preliminary objection. A preliminary objection is against the hearing of the entire appeal for being defective, and not against one or more grounds of appeal”

the 1st Respondent to obtain leave of court before incorporating same into his Brief of Argument. Counsel relied on the authority of MAIYEGUN v THE GOVERNOR OF LAGOS STATE (2010) All FWLR (Pt. 542) 1704 at 1707, among others, in support of his position.

On the sole issue in the substantive appeal, counsel for the Appellants argued that the lower court did not examine their Brief of Argument, issues formulated as well as the real evidence before the trial court, as it only considered the issues formulated and argued by counsel for the 1st Respondent. He argued further that the lower court went on the path of technical justice as opposed to substantial justice, when it failed to consider their Brief of Argument no matter how badly written. He relied on the case of ETAJATA v OLOGBO (2007) All FWLR (Pt. 386) 584 (2007); 16 NWLR (Pt. 1061) 554 at 576.

He submitted that the Court of Appeal did not consider the overall interest of justice, when it jettisoned the said Brief of Argument.

In reaction, counsel for the 1st Respondent submitted that the court is at liberty to adopt any of the issues formulated by either party, for the effective determination

Court’s Judgement and Rationale As it is the practice of the Apex Court, their Lordships considered first the Motion on Notice filed by the 1st Respondent, challenging the competence of some of the Grounds of Appeal. Deciding first on the submission of the Appellants that the challenge to the competence of the Grounds should have been by way of Preliminary Objection and that leave of court was required, the Supreme Court held that the Motion on Notice was proper and rightly filed. The law is trite that, where a Respondent complains of the competency of some Grounds of Appeal and there are other grounds which can sustain the appeal, the Respondent ought to file a Motion on Notice to strike out the incompetent grounds, and not a Preliminary Objection.

A Preliminary Objection is required to be filed if the challenge is against the hearing of the entire appeal for being defective, and not against one or more grounds - ODUNUKWE v OFOMATA (2010) 18 NWLR (Pt. 1225) 405. The court held further that the said grounds, which were being challenged by the 1st Respondents, were grounds of facts or of mixed law and facts; thus, they were incompetent as the requisite leave of court (from either the Court of Appeal or Supreme Court) was not sought and obtained. Consequently, the Appellants’ issues 1-4 distilled from the said grounds, were also incompetent and invalid. The court relied on FALEYE v OTAPO (1987) 4 NWLR (Pt. 64) 186.

In its determination of the sole surviving issue, the court held that the main essence of formulating issues for determination is to enable parties narrow the real issues in controversy as stated in the Grounds of Appeal, for the purpose of accuracy, clarity and brevity. The court is not bound to determine the appeal on the issue or issues formulated by either of the parties, which it considers germane for the just and effectual determination of the appeal. The court may even prefer to re-formulate the issues to enable it determine the appeal, as long as it flows from the grounds on the notice of appeal filed - NWANA v FCDA & ORS (2004) 13 NWLR (Pt. 889).

Flowing from the above, their Lordships concluded that the lower court, adopting the issues as formulated by the 1st Respondent, (as same was more comprehensible) was not tantamount to jettisoning the Appellants’ Brief of Argument. The court also held that ETAJATA’S CASE (supra) relied on was an obiter dictum, and inapplicable in view of the facts and circumstances in the appeal.

Appeal Dismissed.

Representation E.U. Chinedum with Adekunle Olanipekun and Desmond Ejiofor for the Appellants.

O.O.N. Olabisi with E.T. Olatunji and John Ainetor for the 1st Respondent.

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

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Late Chief Guy Ikechukwu Ikokwu

Former Staff of Aelex Law Firm at the inauguration of their Alumni

Guy Ikokwu Passes On at 85 Prominent Senior Lawyer, and Second Republic Politician, Chief Guy Ikechukwu Ikokwu died last Wednesday.

He was admitted to the Bar 61 years ago. A fiery activist and elder statesman, Chief Ikokwu Will be remembered for his enthusiastic interventions on national issues.

Born on September 28, 1937, he hailed from Oba in Anambra State. Chief Guy Ikechukwu Ikokwu was a seasoned legal practitioner, a grassroots motivator and mobiliser, a decent Politician and strong builder of relationships. Guy Ikokwu was known for his organising ability, and as a man who is able to hold forces together and cement relationships for greater collective and individual

achievement.

His education was at St Cyprian’s Primary School, Port Harcourt 1943 -1950, Baptist High School Port Harcourt 1950 -1956, Norwich Polytechnic London, 1957, North Western Kentish Town London, 1957- 1958, Holborn College of Law London, 1958 – 1959, University College London, Institute of Advanced Legal Studies, London University 1961 – 1962, earning LLB (Hons), LLM and BL of the Middle Temple, UK. He was a member of many Professional Associations, including Nigerian Society of International Law, Nigerian Bar Association, of which he was Financial Secretary of the Association 1975 – 1977.

He was President in 1960,

Aelex Law Firm Inaugurates Alumni Former staff of Aelex law firm came together for a reunion and inauguration of an alumni body recently, at Eko Hotels and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos.

The event which commenced with a cocktail and dinner, held at the Grandball Room of the Hotel.

The event opened with a special welcome from the Firm’s Managing Partner, Mr Adedapo Tunde-Olowu, SAN. In setting the tone for the event, the Managing Partner said: “The value of these long-term Alumni relationships, is incalculable. It means that we can understand each other better, and build valuable long-term relationships that affect far more than simply

careers”.

Following Mr Olowu's address, a few members of the Alumni were invited to make some comments on their experiences at the firm, and their current engagements. Afterwards, the Alumni were treated to a selection of cocktails and a buffet dinner, allowing ample opportunity to reminisce with old friends and meet new ones.

There was also a rapidfire question and answer session, with winners going away with prizes.

The event gave the firm the opportunity to celebrate the various achievements of its Alumni, and bring them together to network and share experiences.

The event turned out to be a huge success, and set the tone for the year 2022.

of Nigeria Union of Great Britain and Ireland. He was a founding member

and National Legal Adviser, of the Nigerian People’s Party. He was

also an active member of Ohana Eze NdiIgbo – a socio-cultural

association of Ndi Igbo for awareness, unity and advancement.

UN Urges NHRC to Probe 27,858 Torture Cases in Nigeria The United Nations Committee against Torture has urged the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), to investigate 27,858 complaints of torture in Nigeria.

Noting that the Commission “has a mandate to visit places of deprivation of liberty, receive complaints, conduct investigations, award compensation and request for enforcement of its decisions”, the UN Committee commended the Commission for its “active involvement in advisory, training, advocacy activities and participation in several investigative panels”.

The Committee in its latest report on torture in Nigeria, however, noted “the lack of information provided on the follow up to 27,858 complaints of torture and ill-treatment the Commission received between 2019 and 2020, compensations awarded and enforced, and cases communicated to the Attorney-General at Federal and State level for further prosecution.” It also expressed concern, at the inadequacy of resources allocated to the Commission.

Pointing the way forward, the Committee urged the Federal Government to “Strengthen its office, so that it can effectively carry out its mandate in all parts of the country, and provide it with adequate human, financial and institutional resources, in line with the principles relating to the status of national institutions for the promotion and protection of human rights (Paris Principles): “Ensure that it handles complaints of torture and ill-treatment promptly and effectively, and reports publicly and regularly on the outcome of the cases and compensations awarded”; and “Clarify the coordination with the National Committee against Torture concerning the visits of places of detention, avoid overlap, if any, and strengthen the referral mechanism of complaints.”

On the Government’s counter-terrorism measures, the Committee “appreciates the State party’s commitment to adopt measures to fight against impunity, with an increased focus on Boko Haram’s crimes,

made during the universal periodic review in 2018.

It however, expressed concern “at the continuous degrading security environment owed to the systematic attacks by non-State armed groups, as

well as farmer-herder clashes, resulting in around 2.9 million of internally displaced persons in the Northeast, and the reported use of children as fighters or wives by Boko Haram.

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Late Sylvester Oromoni with his Parents

Sylvester Oromoni’s Death: Is there a Coverup?

The sad and horrible death of the 12 year old Dowen College Student, Sylvester Oromoni under questionable circumstances, is one that Nigerians may not allow to be swept under the carpet. Many were in shock, when the Directorate of Public Prosecutions (DPP) of the Lagos State Ministry of Justice and the Police declared that Oromoni’s death resulted from natural causes, even though thorough investigations do not seem to have been carried out, and the Coroner’s Inquest is yet to be conducted. Furthermore, well documented events, videos, audio recordings, and text messages, if anything, all seem to raise more questions begging for answers. Is there a cover up regarding the cause of Sylvester Oromoni’s death? Was there a dying declaration by Sylvester Oromoni? Were the conclusions of the DPP and the Police too hasty, in such a very sensitive case? Norrison I. Quakers, SAN, Major Ben Aburime (Rtd), Professor John Egbeazien Oshodi, Victor Anazonwu, Solomon Oluwaseun Olukoya, and Afolabi Abiodun examine a multitude of legal and ethical issues in this matter, and reach conclusions that could possibly aid the authorities, if they are concerned in so doing, to unravel what really occurred that resulted in the premature death of the Deceased

Sylvester Oromoni: Legal Issues Arising From the Autopsy Report and Legal Advise Norrison Quakers, SAN, FCArb. Introduction ince the most unfortunate demise of the 12-year-old schoolboy - Sylvester Oromoni resulting in the sealing off of his school - Dowen College, Lekki, Lagos by the Lagos State Govern-

S

ment, there has been unprecedented public outcry over the growing culture of cultism in schools, shortfalls of school administrators entrusted with care of children, and the culture of bullying; being the precursor of other crimes.

Whilst it is alleged in some quarters that a case of murder has been made out, others opine otherwise; the little Sylvester, whilst battling for life, had named some fellow students, under the age of 18, who he claimed attacked him in the dormitory injuring him; they were subsequently charged to Court, and later released on bail. However, one thing

“The need for a revisit of salient issues bordering on the death of little Sylvester Oromoni, the deceased student of Dowen College, Lagos, to ensure justice is seen to be done, cannot be termed much ado about nothing”

cannot be overruled, being, the need to or as to any of the circumstances of the ensure that there is a just determination events which resulted in his death in cases of the matter. in which the cause of that person’s death comes into question, is admissible where the Analysis of Legal Issues person who made it believed himself to be The law serves as a tool for social justice in danger of approaching death although he and social engineering. may have entertained at the time of making All the States of the Federation have their it hopes of recovery. In addition, Section 40 distinct coroner system, as governed by (2) provides that such statement shall be the enabling law. Remarkably, the legal admissible whatever may be the nature of representative of the bereaved family the proceeding in which the cause of death had approached the Chief Coroner in comes into question. However, the dying Lagos State since the event leading to declaration of the little Sylvester must be the death of the little Sylvester, to make corroborated by some other material evidence out a case. to be admissible (see Section 209(1) & (3) of With respect to the teen suspects, for the Evidence Act 2011); a Doctor’s Report young offenders, once found guilty of in this regard will be helpful. the offence of murder, rather than the Admittedly, the Legal Advice of the Director death penalty, they can be ordered to of Public Prosecution (DPP) Lagos, stating be detained during the pleasure of the that there was no prima facie case against the Governor. suspects, seeks to exonerate the School and On the dying declaration of little the concerned students. The Legal Advice Sylvester, by virtue of Section 40 (1) of was addressed to the Lagos State Police and the Evidence Act, a statement made by the Presiding Magistrate, quoting Autopsy a person as to the cause of his death, Report of Pathologists to declare that same did

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Sylvester Oromoni’s Death: Is there a Coverup? not support any torture and toxic substance in the body of little Sylvester.

Regrettably, the anti-bullying fervour of the case seems to have been abruptly silenced by this Legal Advice and Autopsy Report, without the court having the opportunity to entertain a robust examination of germane matters arising, and pronounce on the salient issues involved as to support the role of law as a tool for social justice, and in promoting a transparent adjudication, particularly since the Chief Coroner of Lagos State had directed that an inquest be made into the circumstances surrounding the death, whilst adjourning the matter for further hearing.

Conclusion Of note, justice should be seen to be done and not just done; this should be the litmus test in deciding matters of this nature. More importantly, the hastiness of the findings exonerating the School and the students involved, is another issue.

The need for a revisit of salient issues bordering on the death of little Sylvester Oromoni, the deceased student of Dowen College, Lagos, to ensure justice is seen to be done, cannot be termed much ado about nothing.

Norrison I. SAN, FCArb., Constitutional Lawyer, Lagos

Sylvester Orimoni and the Broken Sword of Justice Major Ben Aburime (Rtd) Introduction I have seen many articles and literature about poor little Sylvester Oromoni Jnr's death, mostly by ill-informed minds. The crown of it all, is the interview granted the Assistant Director (Admissions) of Dowen College and one Dr Nwigwe, and I shall use this as the basis for my all-embracing article.

Dr Nwigwe’s Interview: Questions Was that interview really a factual and dispassionate interview, or a public relations gimmick for the school? For one, Adeyemi's observations about the handling of Sylvester's case at Warri and his alleged crying for proper medical care is as dense, stupid, and insensitive as they come. If Sylvester could have been better managed by the school, why was he sent home in the first instance?

Secondly, if he had an ankle injury that caused the degenerative infection, was the injury a sprain, dislocation, fracture or torn skin? If torn skin with open wound, what inflicted it?

Thirdly, how many days passed for the injury from "playing football" which was reported same day, take to degenerate so fast as to cause the infection that would affect all the major organs and tissues of the body, if there wasn't an external administration of toxic substance(s) by twisted minds?

Fourthly, what is the place and relevance of a Dying Declaration in our criminal law, regarding statement(s) made by a person who believed he was going to die, as regards the cause of his death? Why aren't we looking at that angle, rather than the spirited attempt by everyone involved, to choke us with medical jargon, some of them are even unable to pronounce properly?

Fifth, if we are to take Dr Nwigwe seriously, how do the pictures and video recordings of the autopsy, even the pictures she took in the dark, and at night, explain what caused the infection that started in a

Norrison Quakers, SAN

local place like an ankle go "pandemic", without serious-minded medical minds querying any extraneous causation; not unless people are merely acting out their scripts on account of the vested interests and powerful guardians of the named and suspected culprits?

Sixth, how do you marry the position officials have now taken, with the stark reality of another mother whose child was also intimidated by other cultists in the same Dowen College, who included one Blessing Favour, also named in Sylvester Oromoni's DYING DECLARATION? Or, are we to jettison the revelation of a one-time Counsellor of the College who resigned on account of the happenings at Dowen College?

Conclusion I believe that notwithstanding the level of corruption in our polity and the shameless deceit by a lying Government and its officials, we should consider the interest of the larger society or public, by not allowing minors with a twisted and demonic mind, grow up to torment the society. That they are the children of the rich and powerful, is immaterial. Let us try for once to jettison the Nigerian factor. And, to think that a DPP's Legal Advise will read like an Accused Person’s Written Address! Not forgetting the attempt at pretending that all is well with our judiciary and administration of justice, as the College’s Adeyemi has postulated in his thinly-veiled dishonest presentation of facts, face-saving facts. What a shame!!!

Major Ben Aburime (Rtd), Lawyer, Lagos

Sylvester Oromoni’s Death: Victim’s Rights Matter Professor John Egbeazien Oshodi The case of Sylvester Oromoni is an eye opener for Nigeria’s justice system, as it raises questions about the Prosecutor’s

“…..we may never know if Oshinusi’s hurried and unusual approach to this juvenile investigative matter, was caused by compromise, pressure, or favour and affection towards the College proprietors? But, what appeared clear is that, her entire approach towards the victims' rights was marked with apparent poor judgement”

Major Ben Aburime (Rtd)

accountability for likely professional misconduct.

The DPP’s Legal Advice Nigeria’s justice system is grappling how to move forward professionally and humanly, but officials like Ms Adetutu Oshinusi seem to make the road a little difficult. Oshinusi, caused national outrage, when as a Lagos State Director in the Directorate of Public Prosecutions (DPP), she cleared five pupils and five employees of Dowen College, Lekki, Lagos, who were accused of complicity in the death of 12-year-old Sylvester Oromoni.

Oshinusi’s legal advice was addressed to the Lagos State Police and the attending Magistrate, Olatunbosun Adeola, stating that autopsy report did not support any torture and toxic substance in the body of Sylvester as claimed by his family.

Oshinusi also cleared the minors of belonging to a cult group, due to insufficient facts to establish the claim. I wonder if her office and the court ordered for a psychological evaluation of the accused children, to gain better comprehension of their inner experiences, developmental personality traits and group class?

It should be recalled that Dowen College management had dismissed the claim, saying that Sylvester sustained injuries while playing football with his classmates at school. Did Oshinusi find them deceitful, given her entirely different medical evidence? At the time Oshinusi cleared the student juveniles who were granted bail by Chief Magistrate Olatunbosun Adeola, they faced accusations of conspiracy and murder.

The family of Sylvester through their Lawyer, Femi Falana, SAN, had requested an inquest from the Lagos State Chief Coroner, which commenced on December 16, 2021, and was adjourned to January 15, 2022, for further hearing. Was Oshinusi not aware of this, especially as it relates to a legal inquiry involving a dead child, why the utter urgency on her part?

I make no attempt to explain anything here from the point of law as I am not a Lawyer. But, on ethical and moral grounds, Oshinusi appeared to have insensitively wronged the family in their role as grieving victims, and embarrassed the Nigerian legal establishment, the Lagos State Ministry of Justice especially.

Failure of the Test of ProsecutorVictim Sensitivity From the angle of human psychology, Oshinusi failed the test of prosecutorvictim sensitivity, and here is why.

She knew Sylvester died on November 30th, 2021, she is aware that his body is yet to be buried, as his father said it publicly. She was aware that the Chief

Coroner’s hearing is set for January 15, 2022.

Yet, Oshinusi issued her acquittal document on January 4th, 2022. Why the rush?

Sylvester’s parents appallingly and painfully only found out about the exoneration letter, which was circulating in the social media.

Madam Oshinusi, as a public Lawyer and steward of the people, should know about ethical sensitivity. The current national outrage over Oshinusi’s hasty and perceived insensitive actions, could be viewed as awful behaviour, as inconsiderate, and there are times when such misconducts can result to administrative or legal penalties.

Prosecutor Oshinusi and the Dowen College matter, call to mind, a recent American matter that caused national outcry in America.

Jacquelyn Lee Johnson was accused of violation of oath of a public officer, when in her position as a Georgia Prosecutor, showed preference to a father and son accused of killing Ahmaud Arbery, a 25-year-old black man who was pursued and gunned down as he jogged through a neighbourhood in Georgia.

The now former Prosecutor who prevented two Police Officers from arresting one of the accused murderers, is currently on bail and facing charges of obstruction and violation of oath by a public officer. Both father and son are now convicts, and in prison.

Oshinusi’s conduct is not as severe as that of Johnson's, but ethically and professionally, one can argue that Oshinusi, failed to treat Sylvester’s family fairly and with dignity.

While we know that business interest, matters to the Management of the Dowen College, they want the school reopened, we may never know if Oshinusi’s hurried and unusual approach to this juvenile investigative matter, was caused by compromise, pressure, or favour and affection towards the College proprietors? But, what appeared clear is that, her entire approach towards the victims' rights was marked with apparent poor judgement.

Even if Oshinusi was to free the accusers, in a highly sensitive matter like this involving a dead child, she could have treated his family with sensitivity, and respect; by inviting them to tell them about her conclusions. Instead, they heard her decision in the media. Where is the humanity and decency?

During the invitation, she would have had the opportunity to obligingly tell them about other available remedies, such as in civil courts. Maybe she was waiting for the Lagos State Government, to totally incorporate crime victims’ rights with social welfare services into law. But, she had the full judicial discretion to educate victims.

As for Oshinusi, her employer, the Lagos Ministry of Justice possibly realising her apparent misconduct, reportedly moved her to the Directorate of Citizens Rights, which to me is a very good posting regarding understanding more about the reality of cont'd on page VIII

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Sylvester Oromoni’s Death: Is there a Coverup? cont'd from page VII

victims’ rights.

Lagos CP Hakeem Odumosu Along the ethical and sensitive worries that revolve around Oshinusi’s approach to this type of sensitive juvenile delinquency case, we saw how at various press conferences, the Lagos Police Commissioner, Hakeem Odumosu, who was recently promoted to the rank of Assistant Inspector General of Police, talk about the juvenile delinquency case openly.

Good God! Odumosu as a Police Officer ought to know that, safeguarding the confidentiality of children in the justice system is a solemn duty. For every public comment he made on Sylvester’s matter, he was not only re-traumatising the family, but also undermining the confidentiality of juvenile court proceedings. He was now publicly warning concerned and peaceful protesters, not to demonstrate in public over Oshinusi’s decision. Apparently, Odumosu is still missing the historic #EndSARS lessons regarding the right to engage in peaceful protest.

Conclusion Professionally, I do not know how this case of Sylvester Oromoni’s death and Dowen College troubles will end, and I do not see Oshinusi being treated like the American ex-Prosecutor Johnson, but Oshinusi has been strongly criticised over the way she handled the Dowen College case.

For her apparent professional misconduct and seemingly abusing her prosecutorial discretion, she could have already exposed herself and the Lagos Ministry of Justice to possible civil suits from Sylvester’s surviving family members for emotional distress.

Lagos, a known progressive State, except for these unusual Oshinusi approaches, has always been ahead in social system developments, so I hope it takes into consideration many of the points raised here, and fully develop a juvenile justice system that meets the needs of children, families, and the State, which Nigeria can use as a model.

Professor John Egbeazien Oshodi, Americabased Police/Prison Scientist and Forensic/ Clinical/Legal Psychologist

Sylvester Oromoni: Unanswered Questions Victor Anazonwu Contrary to expectations, the January 7, 2022 press conference by Lagos State Police Commissioner, Hakeem Odumosu (CP) did not move the Sylvester Oromoni case closer to a satisfactory resolution. It hardened the lines between those who say they want justice for little Sylvester Oromoni, and those who they say are standing in the way of justice.

According to the Police Commissioner, the submission of Dr S. Soyemi, the Consultant Pathologist who led a team of Pathologists to carry out a second autopsy, showed “there was no evidence to establish a case of torture, bullying and forceful application of poisonous substances”.

Odumosu said all suspects denied the allegations of torture, bullying and administering of poisonous substances on the deceased. He added that the allegation that the deceased was forced to join a cult group was also not established, as the students interviewed denied the claim.

Valid Questions The CP left more questions than answers in his wake. For instance: Why is the Police apparently relying solely on the

Dowen College, Lagos

testimonies of the accused to establish their guilt or otherwise, concerning allegations of bullying, torture, administering of a poisonous substance and forcing the victim to join a cult? Does the Police expect the accused, to willingly admit their guilt?

Did the Police invite other occupants of the school dormitory where the torture incident allegedly occurred, to testify? Did they invite those with whom Oromoni also allegedly played football with before he fell ill? How many witnesses were invited, at what point during investigations, what did they say, and why is there no mention of their testimonies in Commissioner Odumosu’s press statement? If they were not invited, is it normal police, investigative or legal procedure, to leave out eyewitness accounts?

The second autopsy report, according to the CP, says there was no evidence of trauma to the ribs/lungs of the deceased.

The initial autopsy, says the very opposite.

How was this discrepancy resolved between the two Consultant Pathologists, and among the committee of 11 medical experts representing all stakeholders who witnessed the second autopsy? Does witnessing an autopsy by other medical personnel, mean their concurrence with the report of the lead Pathologist? Was there a second or minority opinion?

In real terms, what is the difference between the following: (a) “Acute bacterial pneumonia due to severe sepsis” as found by the toxicology report and (b) “Septicaemia, lobar pneumonia…” as

“Why is the Police apparently relying solely on the testimonies of the accused to establish their guilt or otherwise, concerning allegations of bullying, torture, administering of a poisonous substance and forcing the victim to join a cult? Does the Police expect the accused, to willingly admit their guilt?”

found by the second autopsy? How do they differ significantly from “acute lung injury due to ?? chemical intoxication”, as found by the first autopsy? Are they not saying almost the same thing, in different medical jargon? Are they not all, simply referring to severe lung infection?

How did the second autopsy report come to the conclusion that, the fatal sepsis which killed the victim emanated from a leg injury only? How severe was the leg wound found on Sylvester, and for how long was it nursed to lead to such a catastrophic outcome? Is it common or possible for a leg injury sustained while playing football, to kill a 12-year-old boy in robust health within days? Was the leg injury treated in the course of the boy’s hospitalisation in both Lagos & Warri?

By who? Why did he not respond to treatment? If it wasn’t treated, why?

Even if there was Sepsis from a leg wound, does it rule out the possibility of further Sepsis from ingesting an unknown (possibly poisonous) substance? What does the toxicology report say specifically, about the strange “dark substance” said to have been found in the victim’s bowels during the first autopsy? What was that substance? How could it have got into the Sylvester? How harmful or otherwise is it? And, how do medical experts explain the swelling & blisters which appeared on the boy’s lips shortly before his demise?

What was the boy’s general state of health before the incidents that led to his expiration? Was he sickly or relatively in good health for his age? What do his medical records from childhood say? Can they help explain why he succumbed rather quickly, or do they point to the possibility of trauma as claimed by his relatives?

Consequences of Answering these Questions Answering these and other related questions, will make the Police investigation more thorough. It will help all parties and the general public, arrive at a more logical, sensible and just reconstruction of what truly happened. It will also lead to a fair and equitable resolution. Anything

short of that, is an affront that will haunt our society for some time to come.

There should be no hurry to close the case file, on this gut-wrenching tragedy. The search for TRUTH, not vindication or vengeance, should be the sole purpose of all efforts, persons and offices involved. The accused schoolboys are also people’s children; our children. They cannot be thrown under the bus. They also deserve justice and closure, to have any chance of living normal lives in the future. Only the truth can set us all free, rest the soul of the departed, liberate the accused, assuage the bereaved, instruct the future and hopefully prevent such a tragedy from ever happening again.

May God give us the wisdom and courage to seek the truth, find the truth and face the truth.

Victor Anazonwu, Lagos

Sylvester Oromoni Jnr: Who Should be Held Responsible?

Solomon Oluwaseun Olukoya Introduction Since the report of the ugly incident of the deceased 12 year old boy, Sylvester Oromoni Jnr, who was allegedly bullied and beaten by his schoolmates resulting in his death, the social space has been disturbed as regard who should be held responsible. This piece is intended to shed more light in that regard.

For support, this paragraph shall briefly address some useful key terms used in subsequent segments, where: Crime; is a behaviour, either by act or omission, defined by statutory or common law as deserving of punishment.

Criminal law/laws of crime; are rules and regulations governing or that define crimes and punishments, regulate and sometimes spell out procedures to be followed in initiating criminal matters. cont'd on page IX

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In Nigeria, there are majorly two of these laws. The Criminal Code (applicable to all 17 Southern States) and the Penal Code (applicable to all 19 Northern States and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja).

Murder (Southern States)/Culpable Homicide Punishable with Death (Northern States): Simply put, Murder or Culpable Homicide Punishable with Death, is an unlawful and intentional killing of a human being by another human. (See Section 316 of the Criminal Code Act and Section 220 of the Penal Code Act).

The aforementioned laws may be with slight alterations, as different States in the country are at liberty to make provisions suited to their distinct immediate environment.

Proof of a crime: This rule states that crimes must be proven beyond all sense of doubt.

This means that the prosecuting counsel must prove that the accused did kill the deceased.

This is often the most difficult phase of a criminal trial, as an infused sense of doubt may render the trial futile. This means that the prosecution must persuade the jury or in our own case, the Judge, that the evidence presented at trial supports no alternative logical explanation.

For the charge of Murder/Culpable Homicide Punishable with Death to succeed, the following tests must be passed: That the deceased died, and it was as a result of an act or omission caused by the accused; That the accused committed the act or omission with the knowledge of killing or of causing grievous bodily harm; That there was intention to commit the crime; and That the act or omission itself was committed.

Motive; answers the ‘why’ in a crime.

Note: Motive is no strong ground for a court to convict an accused for murder. Although, it is persuasive in its nature. Hence, the motive in Sylvester Oromoni’s case, is the invitation and his refusal to join a cult.

The offence of murder is categorically defined in Section 316 of the Criminal Code Act and Section 220 of the Penal Code Act of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Of course, sages and learned lords have at several instances in various cases established or given flesh to these terms, just so to gain reasonable insight of same – the subject.

However, there are not more than four instances when killing can be lawful. Put differently, killing is lawful when; A sitting Governor assents to a death warrant issued by a competent court, following an accused’s conviction.

A person is killed in self-defence, in the defence of another person, or the defence of property from unlawful aggression by another person.

A person is killed in the course of a valid arrest, or a process to prevent a lawfully detained person from escaping, as long as necessary reasonable force is used.

A person is killed as a result of law enforcement agent, using reasonable and necessary force to put down a riot, insurgency, or mutiny.

To the billion-dollar question; who should be held responsible for late Sylvester Oromoni’s death?

According to Section 30 of the Criminal Code, any person who commits the crime of murder is subject to the death penalty under section 319 of the Criminal Code. In

Dowen College, Lagos

the case of juvenile offenders (below the age of 17), no sentence of death can be imposed on them; they are detained at the Governor’s pleasure.

The accused School Mates?

The issue at hand is the criminal liability of an accused individual(s) who is under the age of majority (17/18). A person under the age of seven, as well as a person under the age of twelve but not less than eight years, is not criminally responsible for an act or omission unless it is proven that, at the time of the act or omission, the accused could know that he/she should not do the act or make the omission, or is reasonably presumed to have sufficient knowledge of the act or omission.

The Deceased’s school and teacher(s)?

In negligence cases, where the Defendant fails to fulfil the legal standard of care, a breach of duty may be proven. The Claimant must show that the Defendant owed the Claimant a duty of care, after establishing that the Defendant owed the Claimant a duty of care. Although the breach of duty test is largely objective, there may be minor variances.

Parents of the accused?

If the parents of the perpetrators move them abroad, as it has been rumoured, to avoid criminal accountability, they will be liable for accessory after the fact of murder or manslaughter, which is punishable by life imprisonment, if convicted. That is, in the event that the DPP’s legal advice changes and the school mates are charged to court for either offence.

In criminal law, an accessory is a person who becomes equally responsible for another person’s crime, by knowingly and wilfully assisting the criminal before or after the crime.

In law, an accomplice is a person who, by knowingly and wilfully assisting another

“…..what is the difference between the following: (a) “Acute bacterial pneumonia due to severe sepsis”as found by the toxicology report and (b)“Septicaemia, lobar pneumonia…”as found by the second autopsy?

How do they differ significantly from“acute lung injury due to ?? chemical intoxication”, as found by the first autopsy?”

in committing a crime, becomes equally culpable. An accomplice can be either a helper or otherwise. The accessory assists a criminal before the crime is committed, whereas the abettor assists the perpetrator during the act.

Conclusion The deceased gave the names of five of his schoolmates, whom he stated were responsible for his agony before he died.

It is therefore, not out of place to predict that he may have died as a result of the torture and poisoning he was said to have endured.

Can the testimony of a dead or dying person be relied upon by the court?

Well, the law generally empowers the Judge to weigh and attach probative worth to shreds of evidence tendered.

However, in this case, the major evidence the court may rely on is the testimony of late Sylvester Oromoni, which is known as a “Dying Declaration”.

A dying declaration may be oral as well as written Generally, the law assumes the testimony of a dying man as the truth; on the premise that a dying man has no reason to tell lies. This suffices to make late Sylvester’s testimony admissible, as the autopsy conducted affirms that he was indeed beaten and poisoned.

As we await the court’s decision in this matter, it is my earnest wish that Sylvester Oromoni’s soul, rests. Amen.

Solomon Oluwaseun Olukoya, Law Student with keen interest in Human Rights, Justice and Medical Law Subjects

Who Killed Sylvester Oromoni?

Afolabi Abiodun The recent tragedy that struck at the Dowen College, Lagos, has sparked outrage on various social media platforms across the country.

Bullying A 12-year-old student of Dowen College, Sylvester Oromoni lost his life after he was allegedly attacked by his fellow students, according to the deceased’s claims. While the veracity of this claim is yet to be ascertained, the pictures and videos of Sylvester before his death showed that he must have been a victim of bullying, a typical phenomenon in boarding schools throughout Nigeria.

Unfortunately, the management of Dowen College, in their shoddy damage control attempt, claimed that Sylvester was injured

while playing football, debunking Sylvester’s earlier claims that his refusal to join a cult group his colleagues introduced to him, earned him the beating that ended his life.

Posers What kind of injury can one possibly sustain on a football field, that will lead to massive bruises on the lips and internal bleeding?And if truly, Sylvester had an injury on the football field, why did he mention the names of certain students whom he claimed tried to force him to join a cult group? At age 12, could Sylvester be linking two unrelated events together?

If Dowen College’s claims were true, why did the parents of one of the mentioned students who Sylvester claimed beat him up, allegedly rush down to the school in the wee hours of December 3, and fly him out of Nigeria?

A Wake-up Call Prior to Sylvester’s death, his mother (who was faraway) complained to the school management, that her child complained of pains. The boy was taken to the Health Centre of the school for treatment, after which he was discharged. But, all through the period of Sylvester’s back-and-forth trip to the Health Centre, his mother (I don’t know how busy she is), always delegated someone to check on him.

While I do not want to judge a situation that I don’t have all the facts, I believe the busy lives of so many working parents have made them trivialise the importance of looking out for their wards themselves.

Many parents delegate that responsibility to others, and it is disturbing.

Truly, she may not have had the time then, but the problem of not having time to deal with issues, is that these issues beget other issues. Sadly, it is when the chips are down that people are forced to create time to sort out life-threatening issues, just like Sylvester’s own.

Now that the poor lad is dead…

Suddenly, Sylvester’s family has time to fight for justice; Dowen College has time to address the issue - the time the school never had to properly investigate what happened to Sylvester.

It’s quite disheartening, that the system failed Sylvester. But, it’s also a wake-up call to all and sundry, to learn a thing or two from this incident. Always create time for your loved ones. Life is short.

May the good Lord repose Sylvester’s soul.

How did Dowen College even come up with such a ridiculous claim, as saying Sylvester got wounded while playing football?

I still need answers.

Afolabi Abiodun, Lagos

TUESDAY, JANUARY 18, 2022 • T H I S D AY

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TALKING CONSTITUTIONAL DEMOCRACY DR. MIKE OZEKHOME, SAN

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The Albatross of Next of Kin

Introduction What or Who is a Next of Kin? he term next of kin, usually refers to a person's closest living relative(s). Individuals who count as next of kin include those with blood relation, such as children, or those with a legal standing, such as spouses or adopted children.

The Eighth Edition of the Black Law’s Dictionary defines a next of kin to be- a person or persons closely related to a decedent (recently dead person) by blood or affinity.

Another definition is an intestate’s heir- that is, the person or persons entitled to inherit personal property from a deceased person who has not left a will; i.e dying intestate.

Next of Kin was defined in the case of JOSEPH v FAJEMILEHIN O. O & ANOR (2012) LPELR-9849(CA) as follows: "next-of-kin", by definition, is the person declared to be the nearest of kindred to the declarant, in this case the 2nd Respondent.

See Black's Law Dictionary and Chambers 20th Century English Dictionary." Per Ejembi Eko, JCA (Pp 34 - 34 Paras A - B) See also the case of MOHAMMED v TIJANI (2021) LPELR-54215 (CA).

A person's next of kin often takes precedence over others in inheritance matters, especially where a person dies intestate. Inheritance rights use the next of kin relationship for anyone who dies without a will, leaving no spouse or children. Surviving individuals may also have responsibilities, during and after their relative's life. For example, the next of kin may need to make medical decisions if the person becomes incapacitated, or take responsibility for his/her funeral arrangements and financial affairs after their relative dies.

T

Jurisdiction Over Next of Kin Under English Law, Islamic law and the Administration of Estate Laws of various States in Nigeria, the surviving spouse together with the children of the deceased inherit his estate, to the exclusion of every other person. Then the parents of the deceased take next after the surviving spouse and children, followed by brothers and sisters of the full blood; brothers and sisters of half-blood; grandparents, aunties and uncles of full blood; and finally relation to the parents of the deceased, etc. This was the position in KEKEREOGUN & ORS v OSHODI (1971) LPELR-1686 (SC), subject however to contrary provisions under the Administration of Estate Laws of various States. The specifics of determining the next of kin and inheritance, vary from jurisdiction to jurisdiction. Matters involving inheritance in certain countries, such as the United Kingdom, are handled in accordance with various succession laws. In other countries, next-of-kin laws are in place for settling the estates of people who die intestate.

Line of Inheritance In the absence of a surviving spouse, the person who is next of kin inherits the estate. The line of inheritance begins with direct offspring, starting with their children; then their grandchildren; followed by any great-grandchildren; and so on. The legal status of stepchildren and adopted children, varies by jurisdiction. If the deceased had no offspring, the line of inheritance moves upward to their parents. If the parents are no longer alive, collateral heirs (brothers, sisters, nieces, and nephews), are next in line.

How does Next of Kin Work in Nigeria?

Under the Administration of Estate Laws in some States in Nigeria, a beneficiary of the deceased estate need not be a next of kin, but be a legitimate inheritor of the deceased estate.

This was decided in the case of ONUKOGU v NWOKOLO & ANOR (2021) LPELR-55185 (CA), where the Appellate court stated that: “Sections 2 and 3 of the Administration

of Real Estate Law Cap 2 Laws of Kano State provide thus: “2. When any person shall die intestate after the commencement of this law leaving any real property of whatsoever nature of which the intestate might have disposed by will, such real property shall for purposes of administration be deemed to be part of the personal estate of the said intestate and shall be administered accordingly ... 3. When a person dies intestate possessed of real estate, the Court shall, in granting letters of administration, have regard to the rights and interests of persons interested in his real estate, and his heir-at-law, if not one of the next of kin shall be equally entitled to the grant with the next of kin”.

This provision is replicated in most Administration of Real Estate Laws in most States in Nigeria.

“Next of Kin” and Mode of Inheritance When one states his next of kin to a financial institution, his financial assets do not immediately go to the next of kin. It simply means that they are the first point of contact if something should happen to such a person. The next of kin is supposed to be a trusted person that you know will do the right thing and ensure that all processes are done correctly in the case of emergency. Under English Law and the Administration of Estate Laws of various state, the surviving spouse together with the children of the deceased inherit his estate to the exclusion of every other person. The parents of the deceased take next after the surviving spouse and children, followed by brothers and sisters of the full blood, brothers and sisters of half-blood, grandparents, aunties and uncles of full blood relation to the parents of the deceased etc. This was the position in KEKEREOGUN & ORS v OSHODI (Supra), subject however to contrary provisions under the administration of estate laws of various States. The Supreme Court explained how to determine the next of kin of a deceased as follows, in the above mentioned case: "The only matter on this appeal, is to determine who are the next-of-kin of the deceased. The rules governing the rights to administration in Nigeria in the circumstances of this case, are the rules in England where death occurred there before 1926 and are set out on pages 166

“A next-of-kin can inherit, only if he is named in a Will as a beneficiary or by his status he is entitled by law to inherit, but not actually because he is named as the next-of-kin of the deceased in a bank or place of work”

and 167 of Williams on Executors and Administrators 13th Edition as follows: "In the first place the children and their lineal descendants to the remotest degree, and on failure of children, the parents of the deceased are entitled to the administration; then follow brothers and sisters, then grandfathers and grandmothers, then uncles or nephews, great-grandfathers and great and lastly cousins" "When the contest is between one of the half blood, the whole blood is preferable in the grant of administration to the half-blood, though the majority of interests concur in the latter, unless material objections can be proved against the claimant of the whole blood." In our view, there can be no question that as between the 1st, 2nd and 3rd defendants who are half-brothers of the deceased and the plaintiff who is his cousin, the 1st, 2nd and 3rd defendants as next-of-kin, have the right to administration." Per Charles Olusoji Madarikan, JSC (Pp 7 - 8 Paras B` - A) The Locus Standi of a Next of Kin The phrase ‘Locus standi’ was defined in the words of Nwali Sylvester Ngwuta, JSC in the case of ADETONO & ANOR v ZENITH INTL BANK PLC (2011) LPELR-8237(SC), as follows: "Locus standi to maintain an action in trespass in the context of this case, means the same thing as "sufficient right and/or interest to maintain an action. for acts of trespass..." What, then is Locus standi? The term, locus standi, has been defined inter alia, as the right of a party to appear and be heard on the question before any Court or tribunal. See Senator Abraham Adesanya v President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria & Anor (1981) 5 SC 112 at 28-129 per Fatayi Williams, CJN (as he then was); Ogunsanya v Dada (1992) 4 SCNJ 162 at 168; Gombe v. P.W Nig. Ltd. (1995) 7 SCNJ 19 at 32".

It is pertinent to state that for an action to be competent, such an action must be instituted by a party recognised as juristic person in the legal parlance. A party who purports to bring an action in respect of the estate of a deceased person is Trustee, Executor or Administrator of the Estate, and no other. In the case of UNION BANK v MKENA (2019) LPELR-47197 (CA), the court held thus: "It is not a fact in dispute that the Respondent, as Plaintiff before the lower Court, sued the Respondent/Defendant as: "Ker Mkena (Suing as next of kin of the late Dr Terlumun Mkena)". Therefore,

the bone of contention is whether the suit before the lower court was competent, having been so initiated. By a long line of decided cases, it is incontrovertible that where a party purports to bring an action in respect of the estate of a deceased person, in order to be competent, such an action must be instituted by the Trustee, Executor or Administrator of the Estate, and no other. In the case of The Administrators/Executors of the Estate of General Sani Abacha (Deceased) v Eke-Spiff (2009) All FWLR (Pt. 467) 1, 21, D-F, & 31, D-E the Supreme Court held inter alia as follows: "I go further to say that a person does not have the locus standi, indeed, he lacks the competence to bring an action in a representative capacity as an administrator of the estate of a deceased person, until he has been granted the letters of administration. If he brought the action before the grant, such grant has no retroactive validity. Similarly, a person, who as a plaintiff has no legal power to sue another person as an administrator or executor of an estate of a deceased person, without naming the person of such an administrator or executor on the writ and ascertaining that Letters of Administration or Probate as the case may be, thus legally empowering that person sued to administer the estate of the deceased, was obtained prior to the initiation of the suit... This is because a person has no locus standi and lacks competence to bring an action in a representative capacity as an administrator of the estate of the deceased person, until he has been granted the Letters of Administration... Similarly, a person who has not applied for nor granted letters of administration authorising him to administer the estate of a deceased person, cannot defend any action against the estate of the deceased.

In other words, it is the grant of the letters of administration that confers the right to sue or be sued in the name of the estate of a deceased person." Thus, for a person to be competent to institute an action in respect of the estate of a deceased person, or even to defend an action commenced against the estate of a deceased, he must be an Administrator or Trustee or Executor of the estate, who has been granted Letters of Administration in that regard, to administer the estate. Any other person would lack the requisite locus standi to initiate or sustain an action in respect of the estate.

By virtue of this Rule of Court and the law as set down in decided cases, a grantee of Letters of Administration in respect of the estate of a deceased has the right to sue and be sued. What is important is the legal standing which vests in a party the capacity to approach the court, and not the way in which he chooses to describe himself. Thus, in my humble view, the description of the Plaintiff as "the next of kin" of the Estate of the late Dr. Terlumun Mkena on his court processes, is merely superfluous and does not in any way detract from the fact that he was properly clothed with locus standi to institute the action, having been granted Letters of administration before he did so”.

In conclusion, there is nothing special about next-ofkin as far as succession is concerned. Next-of-kin is merely inserted as the first contact point, if anything happens to you. He is someone empowered to make decisions for you in times of emergency, or where you are not readily available, or unable to make the decisions yourself. He is someone empowered to provide necessary information about you where needed, such as confirming your identity. He is also someone positioned to make medical decisions, such as providing consent for a medical procedure. At best, what a next-of-kin can do after the demise of the deceased is perhaps, to ensure that necessary steps are taken towards obtaining letter of administration from the probate. The typical Nigerian’s conception of the term, “next-of-kin” is therefore, erroneous. A next-of-kin can inherit, only if he is named in a Will as a beneficiary or by his status he is entitled by law to inherit, but not actually because he is named as the next-of-kin of the deceased in a bank or place of work.

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK “Legacy is not what I did for myself. It's what I'm doing for the next generation”. (Vitor Belfort)

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TUESDAY, JANUARY 18, 2022 • T H I S D AY ADVERTORIAL

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FOREIGN DESK

COMPILED BY BAYO AKINLOYE

Partygate: Boris Johnson Fights to Save His Position Britain’s rebellious Prime Minister Boris Johnson has seldom come across a rule he has not wanted to break — and in many ways, his political ascendancy has been because he flouted ordinances with voters thrilling to his audacity and readiness to defy conventions and norms.

However, his rule-breaking is turning into a liability rather than an electoral asset — even among populist-minded voters who liked the idea of a break with the past and wanted him to shake up British politics.

Britain’s Conservative lawmakers returned to London Monday from their constituencies with rebukes still stinging their ears from voters furious with seemingly endless revelations about numerous impromptu and bibulous Downing Street parties held last year as the coronavirus pandemic death toll mounted. The parties breached a strict nationwide lockdown when social gatherings were banned, and thousands were prohibited from visiting family members dying in hospital wards from COVID-19.

The newspaper front pages have been withering in their criticism about what they have dubbed as “Partygate,” and so has been the public reaction as more revelations emerge of a culture of partying at Downing Street with aides resupplying with wine and beer purchased from a supermarket near the House of Commons and transported back in a suitcase. Calls for Johnson to resign have mounted — including from some Conservative lawmakers. Cabinet rivals have been jockeying behind the scenes to position themselves to replace him.

Hindu Monk Jailed Calling for ‘Genocide’ of Muslims Indian authorities have charged a Hindu monk with inciting religious violence after he called for the “genocide” of India’s Muslims at a meeting of right-wing supporters, police said Monday. Senior police officer Swatantra Kumar said Yati Narsinghanand Giri, an outspoken supporter of far-right nationalists who also heads a Hindu monastery, was initially arrested on Saturday on allegations that he made derogatory remarks against women. He appeared the following day in a court in the town of Haridwar, where he was sent into 14 days of custody for hate speech against Muslims and calling for violence against them.

Kumar said the monk Giri, whom he described as a “repeat offender,” was formally charged Monday for promoting “enmity between different groups on grounds of religion.” The charge can carry a jail term of five years.

In December, Giri and other religious leaders called on Hindus to arm themselves for “a genocide” against Muslims during a meeting in Haridwar, a northern holy town in Uttarakhand, according to a police complaint. He is the second person to be arrested in the case after India’s Supreme Court intervened last week.

Drone Attack Kills 3 in Abu Dhabi Authorities in the United Arab Emirates said Monday three oil tankers exploded at an extension of Dhabi International Airport in a possible drone attack.

The state-run WAM news agency said the explosion killed at least three people and wounded six others. The dead included two Indian nationals and a Pakistani.

Police said initial investigations of the incident indicated a drone could have caused the explosion and a nearby fire.

Yemen’s Houthi rebels said Monday the group launched an attack deep inside the UAE but offered little information. UAE officials have denied previous claims of Houthi attacks. UAE forces have been a part of a Saudi-led coalition fighting against the Houthis since 2015, shortly after the group seized Yemen’s capital.

UN Chief: Global Economic Recovery Uneven UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urged international business leaders and

of separatist groups fighting to carve out an independent, English-speaking state in western Cameroon.

In the audio, extracted from a video widely circulated on social media, the man says fighters abducted the civilians for collaborating with Cameroonian government troops.

The video also appears to show the men and women holding rifles. The speaker in the video says separatists expect the civilians to use the rifles to fight the government.

The civilians are also forced to sing a song the speaker in the video calls the national anthem of Ambazonia. Ambazonia is the name of the state separatists say they are fighting to create.

Cameroon’s military says people seen in the video are rubber plantation workers abducted Friday from the town of Tiko.

Bernard Okalia Bilai, governor of the Southwest region where Tiko is located, says the eight abductees are employees of the Cameroon Development Corporation.

Gabriel Nbene Vefonge, president of Cameroon Agriculture and Allied Workers Trade Union, called for the workers’ release.

economists on Monday to do their part to make post-COVID19 economic recovery equitable across the globe.

“At this critical moment, we are setting in stone a lopsided recovery,” he told the World Economic Forum, which normally meets in Davos, Switzerland, but is virtual this year due to the pandemic.

“The burdens of record inflation, shrinking fiscal space, high interest rates and soaring energy and food prices are hitting every corner of the world and blocking recovery — especially in low- and middle-income countries,” Guterres said.

The UN chief said recovery remains “fragile and uneven” as the pandemic lingers, and poorer countries are seeing their slowest growth in a generation and need debt relief and financing. He urged reforms to the global financial system, so it works for all countries.

“The last two years have demonstrated a simple but brutal truth — if we leave anyone behind, in the end, we leave everyone behind,” he said of the lifespan of the pandemic so far.

The World Health Organisation said on Thursday that 90 per cent of countries had not met the goal of vaccinating 40 per cent of their population by the end of 2021. About one billion people have not received a single vaccine dose in Africa alone.

Australian Open: Disgraced Djokovic Returns to Serbia after Deportation On Monday, disgraced tennis star Novak Djokovic returned to his native Serbia after losing an appeal to stay in Australia, which deported him for being unvaccinated for COVID-19.

The world’s No. 1-ranked male tennis player arrived at Belgrade’s Nikola Tesla Airport, where sources told the media he was escorted through a “technical exit.”

A small group of fans waited outside the arrivals area, some shouting, “You are our champion!” while others waved Serbian flags. One fan held a sign that said, “Novak, God bless you.”

The 34-year-old tennis champion landed in Melbourne on January 5, hoping to compete for his 21st major tennis title in the Australian Open. His unvaccinated status violated Australia’s immigration rules, but he was granted a medical waiver from two independent health panels set up by the Victoria state government and Australian tennis authorities. Djokovic had been infected with the coronavirus in December.

But Border Force officials cancelled his visa, and he was sent to an immigration detention hotel in Melbourne. His visa was reinstated by an Australian judge a week ago but was revoked a second time on Friday by Immigration Minister Alex Hawke, who said Djokovic’s presence in the country would stir anti-vaccination sentiment.

Ex-Ukraine President Poroshenko Returns to Face Trial Former Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko on Monday returned to Ukraine to face court on treason charges he believes are politically motivated.

At the Kyiv airport, where he arrived on a flight from Warsaw on Monday morning, Poroshenko was greeted by several thousand cheering supporters.

Some carried banners reading “We need democracy,” and “Stop repressions.”

Poroshenko is expected to head straight to court from the airport, which will rule on whether to remand him in custody pending investigation and trial.

A prosecutor has alleged that Poroshenko, owner of the Roshen confectionery empire and one of Ukraine’s richest businessmen, was involved in selling large amounts of coal that helped finance Russian-backed separatists in eastern Ukraine in 2014-15.

Poroshenko’s assets have been frozen as part of its investigation into the allegations of high treason. The former leader of Ukraine faces up to 15 years in prison if convicted.

Poroshenko insists that he is innocent. He accuses his successor, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, of seeking to discredit him politically to distract from Ukraine’s widespread problems, including economic woes and rising deaths from COVID-19.

The charges are the latest in a string of accusations levelled against Poroshenko since Zelenskyy defeated him in 2019.

The allegations have generated concerns of undemocratic score-settling in Ukraine and alarmed Ukraine’s allies.

Cameroon: Separatists Abducted Rubber Plantation Workers Authorities in Cameroon are blaming anglophone separatists for the abduction of eight rubber plantation workers Friday in the country’s volatile Southwest region.

The country’s Agricultural Workers Trade Union is pleading for the workers’ safe release.

A man speaks in pidgin English as he presents eight men and women as enemies

New Zealand Begins Vaccinating 5-to-11Year-Olds New Zealand began inoculating 5- to11year-old children Monday with Pfizer’s pediatric COVID vaccine. The health ministry said more than 120,000 vaccines had been delivered to 500 vaccination centres around the country.

The omicron surge has not yet peaked in the U.S., Dr. Vivek Murthy, the US surgeon general, warned Sunday on CNN’s State of the Union. “The next few weeks could be tough,” he cautioned but noted that there has been a drop in cases in some locations, including New York and New Jersey.

The new self-isolation period for people with COVID in England has been reduced from ten days to five full days. The new measure went into effect Monday.

“This is a balanced and proportionate approach to restore extra freedoms and reduce the pressure on essential public services over the winter,” Health Secretary Sajid Javid said. “It is crucial people only stop self-isolating after two negative tests to ensure you are not infectious.”

The Credit Suisse Group, a Switzerlandbased global investment bank, has announced the resignation of its chairman Antonio Horta-Osorio, after an investigation revealed that Horta-Osorio had violated COVID-19 protocols, including attending Wimbledon tennis tournament finals in London in July.

China’s 2021 Birth Rates Fall to Lowest Levels in 7 Decades Despite policymakers easing the longstanding one-child policy, China’s birth rates declined to their lowest rate since the ruling Communist Party took control in 1949.

Data released Monday by the National Statistics Bureau shows China’s population stood at 1.4 billion people at the end of 2021, with 10.6 million babies born in 2021, a rate of 7.52 births per 1,000 people. By contrast, 12 million infants were born in 2020, a rate of 8.52 births per 1,000 people.

The population growth rate dropped in 2021 to 0.34 per 1,000 people.

The declining rate puts further pressure on Beijing policymakers to deal with a declining workforce to help support a rapidly ageing population. Authorities in 2016 revised a policy enacted in 1980 that limited families to just one child to restrain population growth. The revised policy allowed couples to have two children, with the number increased last year to three.

Reports say that even though China did away with its one-child policy, the increasingly high cost of living has stopped some couples from having more children.

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PROPERTY & ENVIRONMENT Amazon Energy GiftsVirtual Training Room to UNILAG

L-R: Group CEO/Founder Amazon Energy, Mr. Olayinka Oluwatimehin; Dean, Faculty of Engineering, University of Lagos (UNILAG), Prof. Obanisola Sadiq; and Head of Department, Petroleum and Chemical Engineering Department, UNILAG, Dr. Mrs. Atoke Ogunibayo, at the launch of a Virtual Training Room equipped by Amazon Energy in UNILAG… recently

Bennett Oghifo

A

new well-equipped Virtual Training Room has been donated to the University of Lagos’ Chemical and Petroleum Engineering Department to help promote technology and the practical component of engineering.

The Virtual Training Room was commissioned last Thursday at the Department by a team from Amazon Energy, led by the Group Chief Executive Officer, Engr. David Olayinka T. Oluwatimehin, who earned a bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering from the University of Lagos, and senior members of the Faculty of Engineering, led by the Dean, Professor Obanisola Mufutau Sadiq and the Head of Department Dr. Atoke Ogunibayo.

The initiative is part of the Corporate Social Responsibility of the organisation championed by Amazon Energy Foundation (AEF), its CSR arm. The company’s (CSR) activities cut across everything the organisation does. Amazon Energy is committed to behaving ethically and contributing to economic development. “I realised that students need to do what they have to do in school and come out and education has given a background for us. More important for me is the need to mentor these young ones,” Oluwatimehin said.

“I want to request that you allow us every now and again to spend time with the students to impact them… this is what I think the industry needs to bring back.”

Prior to the commissioning of the Virtual Training Room, Engr.

Oluwatimehin informed the distinguished audience about the great strides Amazon Energy has made and their vision and mission.

According to him, “Amazon Energy is an integrated energy services company today. We started out

doing engineering and have since integrated our processes to include fully EPC for several years.

“We started doing full EPC work engineering and construction and procurement about 8 years ago, having upgraded our management systems to enable us to do EPC work. We have been ISO certified for engineering over 10 years ago but recently got our ISO certificate for EPC work. Recently, we picked up an EPC job where we were flaring down 20 million cubic metres of gas. “We have designed and built four compressors, two ATM compressors and two LB compressors. The client upgraded the scope of the work and added a 24-inch 18.5KM pipeline across the River Niger which we built in four months, and it’s already delivering gas.

To demonstrate how the Training Room works, the Managing Director/Chief Operating Officer, Amazon Energy, Engr. Chinedu Okpareke, who watched history being made via virtual participation, addressed the audience.

Okpareke said, “We have launched this Virtual Training Training Room, but like we do in Amazon Engineering, we are an engineering company, we render services for the creation of facilities that will add value to the companies we

work with. So, now that we have created this facility, my prayer is that the university will put it to good use. It is one thing to implement and it is another thing to maintain. I will ask the head of our corporate social responsibility foundation to ensure that the maintenance of this facility is included in the budget of our organisation.”

The Virtual Training Room is available to all Chemical and Petroleum Engineering students, which will help increase their accessibility to information thereby improving their technical skills.

The Dean, Prof. Sadiq said the Virtual Training Room would serve them well and would be put to very good use for the education of the students.

According to the Head of Department, Dr. Ogunibayo, “Amazon Energy surpassed our expectations.”

Amazon Energy prides itself on “Partnering Creatively: We Meet Your Energy Needs.

A leader in the provision of innovative Integrated Energy Services, primarily to the Power and Oil & Gas sectors. We also have strategic interests in downstream trading and shipping.

“Whether it is subsea, surface and concept development or decommissioning, our all-round

More important for me is the need to mentor these young ones, I want to request that you allow us every now and again to spend time with the students to impact them….this is what I think the industry needs to bring back

technical expertise and strong partnerships provide energy companies the racetrack to success.

“Our history of engineering excellence even in the most challenging environments, combined with our approach steeped in deep local knowledge delivers great results for our clients and stakeholders.”

Their strategy is “In Pace And Ahead With Technology. Technology is constantly transforming our industry in ways and speed never experienced before. The demands this places on the Oil and Gas industry are; the need to put the environment first, produce energy in more efficient and cost-effective ways, and meet the ever-rising energy demands.

“Wherever technology turns, we shall be there to take advantage to deliver innovation that translates into great results for our clients; that is the makeup of the Amazon Energy DNA. Their Vision is “To be Africa’s Premier Energy Services provider,” and Mission is “To provide our clients with the highest quality of efficiently delivered services to satisfy their project objectives; we will seek to exceed their expectations, putting them first always.”

Core Values: “ExQCIT – We execute to quality standards providing creative solutions with integrity and teamwork.

Execution – we will deliver and deliver to the right standard.

Quality – whatever service we deliver, it’s not just about finishing it; it’s about delivering to standard.

Quality of project execution is what we are known for in the market.

Creativity – we think outside the box in providing creative solutions to industry challenges. We never see problems; we see challenges.

Integrity – we keep our word.

Teamwork – we work internally as a team and demonstrate the same in working with our external partners.”

T H I S D AY ˾ TUESDAY, JANUARY 18, 2022

25

BUSINESSWORLD R A T E S MONEY MARKET

A S

REPO

A T

Group Business Editor Eromosele Abiodun Email oriarehu.eromosele@thisdaylive.com

08056356325

J A N U A R Y

S & P INDEX

1 7 , 2 0 2 2

S & P INDEX

EXCHANGE RATE

OBB

9.00%

CALL

4%

INDEX LEVEL

564.02%

1/4 TO DATE

5.82%

N413.03/ 1 US DOLLAR*

OVERNIGHT

10.75%

1-MONTH

6%

1-DAY

–0.17%

YEAR TO DATE

– 15.85%

*AS AT LAST FRIDAY

3-MONTH

10%

MONTH-TO-DATE

0.19%

Despite Rising Population, Increasing Govt. Spending, Nigeria Producing Less Oil Than 25 Years Ago

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja Nigeria is producing far less oil than it did 25 years ago when the estimated population was much less than what it is today and government spending was far below what it is in 2022, a THISDAY’s analysis has revealed.

A comparison of the country’s average oil production per day in 1997, as indicated in the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) yearly statistical bulletin, showed that while Nigeria pumped 2.344 million barrels per day, plus

condensates over two and a half decades ago, it can hardly produce 1.4 million as of this year.

This could however rise to 1.7 million barrels per day if the current condensate production of about 300,000 barrels to 400,000 barrels are added to the between 1.3 million to 1.4 bpd currently being pumped.

Furthermore, while 26 rigs were in operation, on both onshore and offshore terrains, in 1997, Nigeria at present has about 12 active oil rigs, with about half of them not in use.

Nigeria has been struggling for

months with meeting the quota allocated to it by the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) due to ageing infrastructure as a result of years of underinvestment in the upstream of the oil and gas sector.

Added to these are vandalism and sabotage, technical issues as well as difficulties with restarting oil wells the country shut down last year in the heat of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Nigeria’s prospects remain clouded, with deteriorating infrastructure that have seen all of its key export

grades, including Agbami, Bonny Light, Forcados and Qua Iboe face severe production issues throughout the last year.

According to the 1997 statistical bulletin obtained by THISDAY, a total of 155 wells were spudded while total crude oil production, including condensates, stood at 855.736 million barrels in 1997.

In addition, total revenue generated into the Federation Account amounted to $12.198 billion, out of which Petroleum Profit Tax (PPT) contribution was $3.014 billion,

royalties about $1.453 billion, while equity oil sales accounted for about $7.527 billion.

To put it in context, with a paltry N10.54 billion in November, the NNPC Limited, was only able to remit 8.5 per cent of its projected N122.7 billion to the federation account, a joint pool of funds shared by the country’s three tiers of government. However, this excludes royalties and taxes which are other ways government makes money from the oil sector.

In April, last year, the national oil

company paid in nothing into the federation account, even as the N10.5 billion represented a 29.1 per cent decline of the monthly contribution which has steadily declined in the past months due to a variety of factors, including under-production and petrol subsidy payments.

In addition, while a total of N2.30 trillion was supposed to have been paid to the federal, state and local governments in the first 11 months of 2021, only N522.2 billion had been Continued on page 26

Report: Nigeria’s Daily Oil Production to Hit 1.7m bpd in 2022 Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja In spite of its current struggles, Nigeria’s oil production will hit 1.7 million barrels per day in 2022, a new report by CardinalStone Research, has indicated.

Stressing that it expects a forward leap for the industry in 2022, aided by progress across the upstream, midstream, and downstream subsectors, the firm stated that in the upstream, oil production is likely to

be positively impacted by increased drilling activities and sturdy oil prices.

In addition, the firm stated that refinery projects are also slated to reach key milestones in the midstream, headlined by the expected launch of Dangote Refinery in mid-2022.

Elsewhere, the report said that the likely extension of petrol price regulation could keep margins mostly flat for downstream marketers while players in unregulated petroleum product markets are likely to remain

clear winners.

The firm noted that while a $100/ bbl looks unlikely in the near term, the answer lies in an assessment of primary drivers of global demand and supply.

“We believe the upside to oil price is capped by the emergence of the COVID-19 Omicron variant and expected increases in global supply, particularly from the US and other non-OPEC countries,” it stated.

FOOD NAME OF COMMODITY

MAIZE

COMMODITIES

LOCATION

PRICE

NAME OF COMMODITY

100KG JIGAWA

N9000

SORGHUM

100KG ENUGU

N24000

100KG DELTA

N15000

SIZE

100KG

ABIA

N14000

50KG

LAGOS

N13500

It explained that the view on sustained demand is strengthened by news that the Omicron variant is not as deadly as first feared and the increasing switch to diesel due to global Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) shortages.

“There are also talks that OPEC+ may backtrack from its current easing schedule in the wake of the US’s plan to release oil from its crude reserves. Overall, we expect growth in global supply to outpace the rise

SIZE

PRICE

STATE

100KG JIGAWA

in oil consumption, leading to a moderation in Brent prices to an annual average of $70/bbl in 2022.

Our base case is mostly aligned with EIA’s $71/bbl forecast.

“We expect Nigeria’s crude oil production to gradually recover from the setbacks experienced in the first nine months of 2021, reaching 2021 and 2022 average production (incl. condensates) of 1.64 mb/d (-10.7 per cent) and 1.72 mb/d (+4.9 per cent), respectively,” CardinalStone

Research noted.

It said that domestic oil output has notably been hit by several production challenges ranging from power failure on several terminals, pipeline downtime due to vandalism and prolonged repairs, as well as industrial actions over non-payment of salaries.

“In Shell’s last annual report, its management highlighted domestic Continued on page 29

T O D AY

PRICE

NAME OF COMMODITY

SIZE

STATE

N9,000

TOMATOES

40KG

BENUE

N15,000

40KG

KADUNA

N5,000

40KG

ABIA

N18,000

25KG

LAGOS

N9,500

40KG

DELTA

N17000

100KG

BENUE

N8,500

100KG

KADUNA

N8,500

50KG

ENUGU

N23,000

50KG

LAGOS

N17,000

100KG

DELTA

N23,000

PRICE

26

TUESDAY, JANUARY 18, 2022 ˾ T H I S D AY

BUSINESSWORLD

NEWS

COURTESY VISIT…

L-R; Honorary Life Vice President, Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), Dr. Remi Alo; Past President, LCCI, Dr. Nike Akande; Elder Statesman, Dr. Michael Omolayole; President, LCCI, Dr. Michael Olawale-Cole, Vice President, LCCI, Prince Abimbola Olashore, Vice President, LCCI, Gbenga Ismail; and Director General, LCCI, Dr. Chinyere Almona, PHOTO: ETOP UKUTT during a Courtesy Visit to Dr. Michael Omolayole at his Residence in Lagos recently

Fashola Calls for Joint Effort in Maintenance of Road Infrastructure Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

Minister of Works and Housing, Mr Babatunde Fashola (SAN), has called on the Nigerian public to support the federal government to ensure all roads and utilities across the nation are kept in good condition.

The Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Babangida Hussaini, who represented the minister during an inspection, warned members of the public to desist from any activity that will cause damage to the roads, reminding them that government will not hesitate to visit the full course of the law against violators.

The warning came in reaction to a portion of the road shoulders on Kano Western bypass damaged during the construction of a filling station by one Alhaji Sabi’u Farinwata whom Hussaini, who had been instructed to fix the damaged portions.

The minister enjoined Nigerians to support the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari in its efforts at providing good road infrastructure across the country for the benefit of Nigerians.

“This administration of President Muhammadu Buhari has committed a lot of resources to fix our road infrastructure, it is therefore incumbent upon us all to ensure the proper usage and maintenance for them to last “he stated.

Meanwhile, the Director, Engineering Services in the Federal Ministry of Works and Housing, Julius Olurinola, has completed the mandatory 35 years in the Nigeria civil service and has bowed out Hussaini, during the send off

reception, described the new retiree as a seasoned engineer whom he had worked with for a period of about six years.

“I have worked with him and I must say I enjoyed his professionalism and timeliness in the manner he addressed some engineering

issues in the ministry,” he said.

He also commended Olurinola for his contribution to the renewable energy.

In his response, Olurinola attributed his success to the support of the minister and his team.

“Their leadership, mentorship and

guidance was the major boost that kept me on. I am very privileged to have served under their able leadership,” he said.

Firm Targets 60,000 bpd Oil Production in 18 Months Peter Uzoho Leading independent oil producer, Showline Natural Resources Limited, has disclosed the company’s ongoing effort to ramp up production from its asset to 60,000 barrels per day (bpd) from the current 45,000bpd in the next 18 months.

Speaking with THISDAY on the oil and gas industry’s outlook for 2022, Showline Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Ladi Badia, stated that the company was at advanced stage to monetise the huge gas reserve it has on OML 30.

“Right now, we are producing in the region of 45,000 barrels a day and our plan is to within the next 18 months increase that by

at least between 30 to 50 per cent, to go from roughly 45, 000 barrels a day to at least 60,000 barrels a day. So, that is our plan by the end of 18 months from this January,” he stated.

He said the company was planning to build a central gas processing plant, similar to the Utorogu Gas plant in Delta State, at its location.

According to Badia, “That plan is ongoing. It still needs quite a lot of technical work, get some approvals from our funding partners.”

Badia also predicted an improvement in the oil and gas industry’s capital expenditure (Capex) in 2022.

The operator of the Oil Mining Lease (OML) 30 and Trans-Forcados

Pipeline said the improvement in capex would lead to the reactivation of exploration and production projects that were suspended in the last months.

He said both the rising oil prices and the improved base oil production provided for in the 2022 budget, would encourage oil companies to produce more oil this year.

Badia explained that the difficulty experienced in the past 18 months resulted in most of the oil companies having to prioritise current operational expenditure (OPEX) and foregoing growth in terms of further expenditure in capex.

He added: “First of all, the fact that we are coming out from a very

difficult last 18 months, with lower prices, will encourage production with this relatively outright increase in this 2022 budgetary year.

“We also believe that because the prices are building up at around $70 to $80 per barrel, all the capital projects or at least most of the capital project that were suspended or put on hold in the last six months will start coming back on stream.

“We believe that over the last few years, most of the oil companies have really been involving themselves in the current operational expenditure and foregoing growth in terms of further expenditure in capital expenditure.

“That Capex could be anything, from drilling for more oil or expand-

ing the present production that they have. But with this oil prices, we believe that’s the biggest change we are going to see.”

He said the difficulty experienced by the industry had taught many companies that good times don’t last forever, stating that such experience would hopefully lead to more prudent pricing of contracts.

He said with hard lesson learned, throughout the whole value chain, there would be more efficiency in the way contracts are priced throughout the whole value chain of the petroleum sector.

He added that the oil companies would also be sensitive with the way and timing by which contracts are brought into completion.

NLNG Disclaims Train 7 Project Recruitments Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

The Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas(NLNG) Limited has issued a disclaimer on an online advertisement announcing vacancies for its Train 7 Project positions and requesting interested persons to join a WhatsApp group created for the purpose.

The company informed the general public that the said

advertisement or any other one along the same lines are false, fraudulent and calculated to mislead unsuspecting members of the public.

In a statement by the General Manager, External Relations & Sustainable Development, Andy Odeh, it added that neither the NLNG nor its contractors have commenced recruiting for the Train 7 Project, for which

construction activities are yet to commence.

NLNG stated: “Members of the public are accordingly urged to exercise due diligence and caution at all times in evaluating and verifying any claims made by persons purporting to act on behalf of NLNG. “ And they are expressly advised not to make any financial commitment in relation

to any such claims as neither NLNG nor its contractors for the Train 7 project – a consortium comprising Saipem, Chiyoda and Daewoo (‘SCD JV’) which is exclusively responsible for managing all aspects of the Train 7 Projects – will make such demands.”

The company called on individuals and companies interested in pursuing opportunities on

the Train 7 Project to visit the contractor’s website for the correct details on how to do business with the consortium.

“NLNG expressly disclaims any liability for any losses incurred by any person(s) as a result of reliance on such fraudulent advertisements, communications, e-mails or publications,” the company said.

DESPITE RISING POPULATION, INCREASING GOVT. SPENDING, NIGERIA PRODUCING LESS OIL THAN 25 YEARS AGO paid as of November 2021, resulting in a shortfall of N1.78 trillion.

But the 1997 bulletin further showed that crude oil suppliers to the three local refineries at the time, amounted to about 80.473 million barrels while 78 million barrels were processed and total petroleum products produced by the refineries were put at about 9.37 million metric tonnes (86.714 million barrels).

In contrast, Nigeria imports all of the products it consumes today, since all the refineries have become inoperable due to years of lack of maintenance.

The oil statistics showed that total crude oil exports stood at 767.9 million barrels averaging 2.104 million barrels per day in 1997, of which the federation (NNPC) equity oil export stood at 392.3 million barrels.

But as opposed to 155 wells

in 1997, a total of 81 wells were drilled in 2020, of which 76 were development wells and five were exploratory wells.

Furthermore, crude and condensate production for 2020 was 644,362,369 barrels giving a daily average of 1.76 bpd, in contrast to the 855.7 million barrels pumped 25 years ago.

On the country’s refining capacity, the NNPC statistical bulletin for last

FOOD NAME OF COMMODITY

PALM OIL

SIZE

STATE

PRICE

25CL LAGOS N20,000-N25000 25CL

PH

N21,000-24,000

NAME OF COMMODITY

RICE

COMMODITIES SIZE

25CL

IMO

N21,000–N24,500

25CL

EDO

N17,000–N20,000

STATE

PRICE

100KG ABUJA N23,000–N25,000 50KG 50KG

25CL IBADAN N18,000-N22,000

OYO

50KG KWARA N24,000–N27,000 50KG

PRICE

NAME OF COMMODITY

COCOA

LAGOS N23,000–N26,500

50KG

EDO

N17,000–N20,000

of which 349 were as a result of vandalism, while 102 cases were due to system deterioration like rupture and weld failure.

On a positive note, however, while natural gas produced in association with oil amounted to 1,142 billion standard cubic feet of which 801.8 Bscf (70.21 per cent) was flared 25 years ago, today, less than 10 per cent of the country’s gas is flared.

T O D AY PRICE

NAME OF COMMODITY

SIZE

STATE

PRICE

1 TON ONDO

N740,000 – N760,000

ONIONS

100KG

IBADAN

N25,000

100KG

KANO

N10,000

1 TON OSUN

N730,000 – N750,000

100KG

BENUE

N27,000

100KG GOMBE

N12,000

100KG DELTA

N21,000

100KG LAGOS

N25,000

100KG ENUGU

N15,000

100KG

N29,000

SIZE

1 TON

STATE

EDO

1 TON CROSS RIVER

50KG SOKOTO N11,500–N13,000

N19500- N25000

Nigeria imported major petroleum products amounting to 15.1 million metric tonnes.

Moreover, estimated average daily consumption for 2020 was 60 million litres of petrol , 14.1 litres of diesel and 740, 000 litres of household kerosene.

According to the 2020 bulletin, the latest in the series, the NNPC stated that a total of 451 line breaks were reported on its pipelines out

N22,000-N25,000

PLATEAU N23,500-N25,000 (JOS)

50KG RIVERS N23,000–N26,500

25CL ABUJA

year stated: “All process units were on shutdown thus, they processed 0.00 barrels, (0.00mt) of various petroleum products.

“The total product output of LPG, PMS, HHK, AGO and fuel oil by the refineries was 0.00 metric tons. The combined average refining capacity utilisation for year 2020 was 0.00 per cent.”

Whereas some measure of export was carried out 25 years ago, in 2020,

1 TON

AKURE SOUTH, ONDO

N720,000 – N740,000 N700,000 – N720,000 N730,000 — N755,000

ABIA

T H I S D AY ˾ TUESDAY, JANUARY 18, 2022

27

BUSINESSWORLD

OIL & GAS

Rising Oil Prices and Nigeria’s Grim Economic Indices Nigerians should ordinarily be rejoicing over the rising prices of crude oil in the international market. However, it would be stating the obvious to say that the country is not feeling the impact of the positive development. Emmanuel Addeh writes that this could perhaps be traced to wrong-headed policy decisions and neglect of a few major fundamentals

A

lthough, the issues bedevilling the petroleum sector in Nigeria are not recent, what is different with the current situation is that it is far worse than what obtained in the past.

In the real sense of it, Nigeria has never really benefitted optimally from the production of its oil and gas resources, in part, due to its non-domestication of the proceeds of its resources, leading to a haemorrhage of the sector.

But with the dynamics currently playing out, industry watchers believe that even at $100, getting a massively positive economic impact from the country’s most prized natural resource could be an uphill task.

While in the past, even ordinary Nigerians without much knowledge of how the economy works would heave a sigh of relief once the prices of oil start rising in the international market, many are now lost as to why there has been hardly any impact, despite the commodity rising from a low of $10 in 2020 to a high of $85 in 2021 and 2022.

In addition, Nigeria continues to borrow massively in spite of what ordinarily should be a boom period for the economy and for foreign exchange inflow.

SURGING PRICES

In the heat of the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020, the oil market took what would unarguably be its greatest hit in history, with some blends slumping to the negative territory and sellers offering monetary offers to buyers to pick the commodity.

Things have since turned around, with forecasts by major banks and market intelligence firms that prices could hit $100 in the nearest future. But despite this, the foreign exchange inflow has not markedly improved , neither has the falling naira received a major positive impact.

For instance, last week, oil prices, particularly Brent, Nigeria’s benchmark hit a two-month high amid projections that a lack of production capacity and limited investment in the sector could lift crude between $90 and $100 a barrel this year. It had also in the last quarter of 2021 hit the $85 mark.

In the main, a tight supply and easing concerns about the potential hit to demand from the Omicron coronavirus variant, combined to jack up prices as Brent sold for $85.04 a barrel and the United States West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures were up to $82.90.

Brent prices have not touched $90 and $100 since 2014, when they were retreating from a record high above $115 to as low as $57 by the end of the year.

Though the Omicron coronavirus variant has pushed COVID-19 cases far above peaks hit last year, it is expected that oil prices will be supported by the reluctance of many governments to restore the strict restrictions that hammered the global economy when the pandemic took hold in 2020.

GOOD NEWS AND BAD NEWS

But the news has been both good and bad for Nigeria which should ordinarily earn more foreign exchange from the sale of crude, but now has to deal with paying more subsidy since there’s a positive relationship between the international prices of the commodity and how much Nigerians get the product at the pump.

On December 22, the National Assembly approved a N17.126 trillion ($38 billion) budget for 2022, anchored on an oil price benchmark of $62 per barrel.

The approved oil price assumption was higher than

the $57 per barrel price that President Muhammadu Buhari had proposed to the parliament on October 7, and also higher than the oil price benchmark of $40 per barrel adopted by the government for the 2021 budget.

Nigeria also retained the oil production target of 1.88 million bpd, including condensate production of between 300,000-400,000 bpd, for the purpose of its revenue calculation in 2022.

This is as compared to the output target of 1.86 million bpd the government had set for the 2021 fiscal year.

While oil exports account for around 80 per cent of Nigeria’s foreign exchange revenue, however, the country has battled with a sharp drop in revenue amid a drop in production for months.

and importation of products are largely opaque.

But speaking recently on the oil price surge, Nigeria’s Minister of Finance, Zainab Ahmed, explained that the situation of rising prices, little imoactnwas because of corresponding increase in expenditures.

“The high price of oil means that we would be able to earn more revenue. At $85 per barrel is way above the $40 per barrel we have on our 2021 fiscal projections.”

“But we also have the challenge of having to buy petroleum products for use in-country, because we do not have functional refineries. So that eats into the revenues we would have otherwise realised,” the minister said.

SUBSIDY DRAIN

Nigeria has not been able to meet its production allocation by the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), so it has significantly under-produced for various reasons, ranging from technical to community issues, to ageing upstream and inability to restart its oil assets.

Despite rising Brent prices, the diminishing pace of Nigeria’s oil fortune is threatening the economic health of Africa’s biggest economy as the country’s oil rigs hit the lowest in six years.

Data obtained from Baker Hughes Incorporated and OPEC showed Nigeria’s oil rigs, which depict the level of oil production activities by operators, have reduced to five as of April 2021, a sharp decline from a three-year high of 30 rigs count recorded in 2015.

OPEC’s data also showed Nigeria’s oil production has slumped to an average of 1.35 million barrels per day in the last six years, from an oil production of 1.7 million bpd in 2015.

What this means is that with falling royalties and taxes, government revenues will also be negatively impacted.

Nigeria has not been able to get the full benefits of rising oil prices because a large portion of the the revenues it gets from there are used in paying for huge petrol subsidies. To be sure, this is not the fault of the ordinary Nigerian.

To put this in proper context, in the first 11 months of 2021, subsidy rose to N1.16 trillion, according latest data from the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited.

Indeed, as expected, it also significantly impacted NNPC’s remittances to the Federation Accounts Allocation Committee (FAAC) in the 11-month period, dropping by N1.78 trillion.

The subsidy spending, which NNPC usually terms under-recovery, showed that the national oil company spent N25.374 billion, N60.396 billion and N61.966 billion in February, March and April respectively.

In May, June and July, NNPC recorded underrecoveries or value shortfalls of N126.298 billion, N164.337 billion and N103.286 billion, adding that the shortfall stood at N173.132 billion, N149.283 billion, N163.709 billion and N131.4 billion in August, September, October and November respectively.

NNPC is currently the sole importer of the product into Nigeria as other marketers have stopped importing the commodity due to their inability to adequately access dollars for transactions.

President Muhammadu Buhari has fixed the first half of this year to remove the much-talked-about subsidy. With politics most times trumping policies in Nigeria, it remains to be seen his he will do that going into a massively important election year.

The huge subsidy figures have also ensured that the NNPC’s remittances to the federation account has dwindled massively since last year, as projected remittance by the company for the 11 months combined was put at N2.30 trillion, while it was able to pay N522.203 billion.

MASSIVE IMPORTATION

A corollary to the payment of subsidies is the almost 100 per cent importation of all its products including petrol, diesel, kerosene to some extent and even gas, although the country has a whopping 206 TCF of proven gas reserves.

As it is, Nigeria does not define a drop of products, so it imports all it needs to power the economy, costing billions in dollars, thereby fleecing Nigeria of the much needed forex. Both the funding of subsidies

UNDER-PRODUCTION

THINNING RESOURCES, GROWING POPULATION

Unlike small countries like Qatar and Saudi Arabia with small populations, Nigeria does not have a population policy, or where it exists it is not implemented.

Despite its huge oil reserves, Nigeria has one of the lowest production per capita among oil-producing countries in the world, producing less than a barrel per 100 people.

In Saudi Arabia, for instance, it is about 28 barrels per 100 people, in Kuwait it is roughly 60 barrels per 100 people, while in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) production per capita is 32 barrels per 100 people.

For mostly religious reasons, despite the urgent need to do so, Nigeria has refused to do something about its surging population, precipitated by a very high birth rate. So, even if oil prices move higher than it is today, chances are that it will still a drop in the ocean.

GRIM ECONOMIC INDICATORS

Although oil prices rose by over 50 per cent in 2021, the Nigerian currency, the naira, fell 55.92 per cent in 2021, declining in value from N363/$ to N566/$, according to a new report by the Financial Derivatives Company

(FDC) Limited.

The Lagos-based research and consultancy firm further stated that the country’s income per capita shrank by 3 per cent to $2,100 during the year 2021, with Nigeria hit by two recessions in two years.

With life expectancy at 55.75 years, the 4th lowest in the world, and unemployment rate at 33.3 per cent, still the 4th highest in Africa, the report stated that Nigeria’s misery index hit 48.7 per cent last year.

Added to that, the FDC document indicated that 93.3 million Nigerians are currently neck-deep in poverty, even as diaspora remittance dropped by 26.09 per cent to $17 billion.

Till the end of the year, the report stated that gas prices rose 127.8 per cent, house rent by 50 per cent, particularly on Lagos mainland, while diesel prices increased 79.5 per cent.

Furthermore, the research firm noted that flour prices hit a 52.3 per cent increase, beans increased by 166 per cent while the price of table water generally surged by 100 per cent.

With a Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of $432.9 billion, according to the Bismarck Rewane-led FDC, oil production in the country slumped by 12.88 per cent when compared with 2020.

MAYBE SOME HOPE

The silver lining, however, is that Nigeria may soon be able to streamline its massive spending on importation of petroleum products if everything goes as planned this year.

With the planned completion of the humongous Dangote refinery, worth roughly $20 billion and covering around 250,000 hectares, the foreign exchange frittered on importing refined products could be retained in-country.

Once in full operation, the refinery is expected to produce gasoline and other petrochemical products such as polyethylene and polypropylene.

Recently, Central Bank Governor, Godwin Emefiele, said the federal government currently spends about 40 percent of its dollar earnings on the importation of petroleum products, putting pressure on the local unit.

“By the time the Dangote refinery begins operation, it would be a major FX saving source for Nigeria. Right now, the overall forex we spend on imported items, the importation of petroleum products consumes close to 30 percent.

“The Dangote Refinery has the capacity to produce 650,000 barrels per day. There is a domestic component that is about 455,000 barrels. Even if the 455,000 is what is sold to Dangote in naira alone, it is going to be major forex saving for Nigeria.

“If you look at the cost of freight alone, it is a major saving for Nigeria. That is because if we have to go to Europe or other parts of the world to bring in petroleum products where we pay heavily in freight and in stocking those products in the high sea before we offload them, Nigerians would benefit a lot from the Dangote refinery,” he said.

In addition, the NNPC last year brought in some contractors to rehabilitate the country’s refineries.

Hopefully, this is seen to logical conclusion to curb the massive products importation.

28

TUESDAY, JANUARY 18, 2022 ˾ T H I S D AY

BUSINESSWORLD

OIL & GAS

Posers Over NLNG’s 100% Local LPG Supply Decision Last week, Nigeria LNG Limited announced that it was set to supply 100 per cent of its Liquefied Petroleum Gas production to the Nigerian market in line with its mission to help deepen the utilisation of the product in the country. In reaction to the company’s declaration, marketers of the product and industry watchers have raised concerns about the lack of clarity in the statement, arguing that the company had made similar statements in the past, Peter Uzoho reports

F

ollowing the resolution and approval by its board of directors, Nigeria LNG Limited (NLNG) announced last week that it was set to prioritise Nigeria’s domestic market by supplying 100 per cent of its Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) production comprising propane and butane, to the market.

The Managing Director of NLNG, Dr Philip Mshelbila, disclosed the company’s plan in a statement signed by the organisation’s General Manager, External Relations and Sustainable Development, Mr. Andy Odeh.

“Committing 100 per cent of our LPG supply is a major milestone in our journey of domestic gas supply. We supplied our first butane (LPG) cargo into the domestic market in 2007, which helped to develop over the years, the LPG industry in Nigeria from less than 50,000 tonnes to over one million tonnes market size annually by the end of 2020,” Mshelbila said.

He said in 2021, NLNG increased its LPG supply commitment from 350,000mt, equivalent of 28 million 12.5kg cylinders to actual delivery of 400,000mt, equivalent of 32 million 12.5kg cylinders, thereby directing most of its production into the domestic market.

“But this was not enough for NLNG, hence this commitment to do all that we possibly can and supply 100 per cent of our LPG production to the domestic market,” Mshelbila added.

Coming at a time the LPG subsector is enmeshed in crisis resulting from shortage of the product and skyrocketing prices, many believe that such announcement by NLNG would lead to the closure of supply deficit and the crashing of the price of LPG. Although, the company was yet to respond to THISDAY’s question, as of press time, which sought to know the exact volume the said 100 per cent supply would translate to, it had in 2021 announced an increase in the volume of its annual commitment to the market from 350,000 to 450,000 metric tons, saying, that was about 100 per cent of its butane production.

It added that in 2020 alone, it supplied over 80 per cent of its LPG sales (butane/cooking gas) to the Nigerian market.

However, NLNG pointed out at the time, that its current maximum butane production met about 40 per cent of domestic demand and that the balance was being supplied by other domestic producers or via imports.

It stated that its production alone was therefore not sufficient for the Nigerian market.

This latest announcement by NLNG about committing 100 per cent of its LPG production is coming after years of backlash from the marketers of LPG who had repeatedly blamed it for contributing to the product shortage and price hike.

They have always accused the company of preferring to export the product to other countries to supplying all to the local market.

No doubt, the company’s communication may not be unconnected with the move by the federal government and stakeholders in the subsector to address the crisis witnessed in the LPG space between late 2020 and 2021.

MARKETERS REACT

Not comfortable with the latest NLNG announce-

ment of 100 per cent LPG supply to the Nigerian market, marketers, who spoke to THISDAY, questioned the truth in that announcement.

Faulting the liquefaction company, the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Association of Liquefied Petroleum Gas Marketers (NALPGAM), Mr. Bassey Essien, said the statement by NLNG was not specific about the actual volume of supply.

He said the company had said at a forum last year that it had committed 450,000mt of its butane production to the country and that the company also said the figure was 100 per cent of its production.

Essien wondered why the company would be coming out now to announce that it was set to supply 100 per cent of its LPG production without stating the actual volume.

Asked if that announcement would have any major impact on the already troubled market, Essien said there would be no impact from it as it was the same old story.

Essien said, “What was the volume they said they were putting to the local market? And now they are saying they are going to go 100 per cent, what volume are they anticipating?

“Same last year, at the height of the increase in prices that was everywhere, they said their total production for propane was 450, 000 which they said they had committed to the market. So, if they committed 100 per cent of that last year, and they are telling us now that they are set to do 100 per cent, so what are they saying?

“Let’s wait until they mention the amount.

But if it is the same 450,000, then there is nothing to comment on. Let’s forget about semantics. We want to know what the 100 per cent translates to in volume”.

THE INTRACTABLE LPG CRISIS

Nigeria consumes an estimated 1.2 million metric tonnes (MT) of LPG, with NLNG supplying 450,000mt while the remaining 750,000mt is being sourced through importation.

But even as a country that is rich in gas and a major gas producer, with 206 trillion cubic feet (TCF) proven gas reserve, the country ranks among the lowest in gas use.

Nigeria’s average gas production is estimated to be around 8 billion cubic feet per day.

But in all these opportunities, the country continues to be poor in energy use including LPG, which is seen as a clean cooking fuel. The crisis in the nation’s LPG market seem to be defying all measures aimed at addressing it.

Nigerians are still grappling with the challenge posed by hike in the price of LPG which they were thrown into last year, resulting from a number of factors.

The factors include insufficient in-country supply of the product by the NLNG and the rise in oil prices - which is a major determinant of the prices of all fossil fuel products.

Foreign exchange scarcity also made it difficult for importers to continue importing the product, as dollar was no longer affordable to them.

Other factors that impact the product supply

and price include high inflationary pressures, and heavy import costs.

Worse still, the announcement by the government that it was going to introduce 7.5 per cent Value-Added Tax (VAT) on imported LPG further destabilised the market, as the marketers, who import the product started panicking and had to stop importation.

Sadly, this VAT introduction announced by the government is yet to be applied to the LPG import cost as at today, after causing hardship to Nigerians.

The development led to the price of LPG hitting the rooftop, as the cost of a 12.5kg cylinder refilling unit rose to over N9,000 in the third quarter of 2021 as against N3,400 sold in the first quarter of the same year.

At a point, a number of the consumers, mostly the low-income earners, who could no longer afford the gas, had to resort to firewood, charcoal and sawdust as a cheaper alternative.

Though, with huge health and environmental impact on them.

LPG PRICES STILL ON THE RISE

Contrary to the notion in some quarters that prices of LPG had started coming down, the NALPGAM executive secretary said prices had continued going up as at last Friday.

Essien decried the continuous rise in the prices of the commodity, saying prices are now rising by N500,000 per truck, every day.

He also alleged possible manipulation of LPG supply system by some persons which could be causing the continuous increase in prices, despite the claim that the 7.5 per cent Valued-Adddd Tax (VAT) on imported LPG had not been activated yet.

He said the cost of a truck load of LPG at the depot had risen to over N10.10 million last Friday, debunking the notion that prices had started dropping.

According to him, they were buying the product at around N10.10 million per truck, even higher than what they were buying the previous weeks.

Essien said when the product was coming down some weeks ago, it did not come down to below N9.5 and N9.6 million per truck, adding that the price was rising higher at the moment at the LPG terminals.

At the retail level, a 12.5kg cylinder refilling unit rose from about N3,400 early 2021 to as high as over N9,000, depending on the location. It is still selling at above N8000, THISDAY learnt.

However, at the depots, a truck load of the product rose from about N4 million to over N10 million.

Essien said: “The cost of a truck was around N9.6 million, N9.5 million and suddenly it went back to N10.10 million with extra N550,000 just yesterday.

“When it was going up, it was going up at the rate of N200, 000 to N500,000. The one it came down last week (penultimate week), it was coming down at N50,000. But suddenly, yesterday (last Friday), it went

up by N550,000.

“May be, somebody along the line is manipulating the system, or some people along the line are not telling us the truth. The marketers buy what the terminals sell to them. So, what is going on at the terminals?”

He frowned on the inability of the government to categorically state its position on LPG VAT, pointing out the terminal owners were using that as an excuse to keep hiking the prices.

“Government said they want to start VAT, customs duties and yet, they said have not even started implementing it. So, why is the price high?

“Ask NLNG how much they are giving this product to the terminal owners or the off-takers, so that we know why it is expensive as that.

Why did it increase by N550, 000 per truck yesterday?”, he said He expressed displeasure over government’s weakness in addressing the LPG crisis in the country, pointing that the federal government keeps saying it was working towards bringing down gas price without being specific about what it was doing.

He said prices would only come down if there was a sustained increase in volume of LPG going to the market, either through importation or through supply by the Nigeria LNG Limited.

VAGUE 100% LPG SUPPLY Resolve

Announcing the plan to dedicate 100 per cent of its LPG production to the Nigerian market, NLNG’s Managing Director, Mshelbila, said the decision was in line with the company’s mission to support the deepening of cooking gas utilisation and adoption in the country.

He said the milestone was coming just three months after the company supplied its first propane cargo into the domestic market and had developed a scheme to sustainably supply propane for usage in cooking gas blending as well as in agro-allied, autogas, power and petrochemical sectors of the Nigerian economy to further deepen gas utilisation in Nigeria.

These initiatives, according to him, were designed to increase LPG availability in Nigeria, diversifying its uses and support the Federal Government’s Decade of Gas initiative.

NLNG is currently the highest single supplier of LPG into the domestic market, with an estimated 400,000 metric tonnes supplied in 2021.

Mshelbila said the announcement marked the company’s strong commitment to the continued growth of the domestic LPG market and its passion to increase utilisation of one of the most versatile energy sources in the world.

He added that the company was ardently following up on the commitment it made in March 2021 at the NLNG-sponsored pre-summit conference of the Nigeria International Petroleum Summit (NIPS) 2021, organised by the Federal Ministry of Petroleum Resources, to support the Decade of Gas declaration by the federal government.

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

T H I S D AY ˾ TUESDAY, JANUARY 18, 2022

29

BUSINESSWORLD

INDUSTRY

A Good Quarter for Manufacturing Sector The Manufacturers Confidence Index (MCCI) of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) that measured changes in the quarterly pulsation of manufacturing activities in relation to movement in the macro-economy and government policies stated that the manufacturing sector fared better in the last quarter of 2021, writes Dike Onwuamaeze

T

he Nigerian manufacturing sector fared positively in the fourth quarter of 2021?

This was revealed by the Manufacturers CEO Confidence Index (MCCI) report that was released by the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) on Friday, January 14. The index is the barometer used by MAN to aggregate the views of CEOs of manufacturing companies on changes in the economy. The standard diffusion factors considered in the MCCI processes include the current business condition, business condition for the next three months, current employment condition (rate of employment), employment condition for the next three months, and production level for the next three months.

The MCCI report stated that the aggregate MCCI score increased to 55.4 points in the quarter under review (Q4 2021) from 54.0 points obtained in the preceding quarter (Q3) thus, showing improved performance in the period and growing confidence of manufacturers in the economy.

The report also showed that the index for Current Business Condition (CBC) increased by 1.15 points in the quarter under review from 50.3 points recorded in the third quarter of the year. Similarly, the Index for Business Condition (IBC) for the next three months increased by 3.2 points in the quarter from the 55.8 points obtained in the preceding quarter.

Similarly, the Index for Current Employment (employment rate) increased by three points in the quarter under review from 47.6 points obtained in the third quarter of the years. In the same vein, the Index for Employment Condition for the next three months increased by 2.1 points from 52.3 points recorded in the preceding quarter.

The increasing index of employment reflected the improvement in business condition in the economy during the quarter under review. It also showed that manufacturers are beginning to engage/re-engage workers after the unplanned retrenchment forced by COVID-19 pandemic and other economic challenges.

SECTORAL GROUP MCCI

The MCCI also showed that there was growing confidence in the economy across all the sectoral groups of the MAN in the period under review despite prevailing economic and health challenges. The index scores of all the sectoral groups, as contained in the report, were above 50 points, which is the benchmark, though in differing magnitudes.

For instance, the index for Food, Beverage, and Tobacco sectoral group increased by 2.8 points in the

fourth quarter of 2021 from 55.9 points recorded in the preceding quarter. Similarly, the index for the Chemical and Pharmaceutical Products group increased by 1.8 points in the quarter under review from 60.3 points obtained in the preceding quarter. In the same vein, the index for Motor Vehicle and Miscellaneous Assembly maintained positive growth reading of 51.3 points in the fourth quarter of 2021 from 50.7 points obtained in the preceding quarter; thus, indicating 0.6 points increase over the period.

The trend, therefore, generally indicated an increasing level of confidence of manufacturers operating in these sectoral groups in the economy.

ZONAL MCCI

The performance of the 14 industrial zones of MAN, which are spread across the six geopolitical zones of Nigeria was also surveyed to measure the level of confidence of CEOs of manufacturing concerns operating in each of the zones. Of the 14 industrial zones, the index scores for 12 zones were above the benchmark of 50 points while the other two, namely Rivers State and Abuja, fell below the benchmark in the quarter under review.

The index score of Rivers State fell to 47.5 points from 53.4 points obtained in the third quarter of 2021. In a similar vein, the index score for Abuja decreased to 43.3 points in the fourth quarter of 2021 from 48.6 points recorded in the preceding quarter.

The factors responsible for the dwindling performance of Abuja and Rivers industrial zones included a multiplicity of taxes that were triggered by excessive revenue drive of governments, poor access to foreign exchange (FX) for importation manufacturing inputs, triple rise in the cost of transportation of goods due to refusal of transporters in Lagos to take cargos to industries in these locations due to insecurity, the rising cost of production and the general reduction in disposable income of consumers.

Therefore, the perspectives of manufacturers in Rivers and Abuja indicate no level of confidence in the economy.

Also, the index for Imo/Abia zone declined by eight points from 61.3 points obtained in the preceding quarter. Similarly, the index for Edo/Delta zone fell by 9.2 points in the period under review from 62.5 points recorded in the third quarter of the year. In the same vein, the

index for Kano zone declined by 3.1 points in the quarter from 57.5 points obtained in the third quarter of the year.

The MAN called for proper examination to find out the contributory factors and the initiation of proactive advocacy to address the issues responsible for the reduction in the performance of these zones before it will slide below the 50points benchmark.

In the same vein, the index for production level for the next three months also decelerated to 61.5 points from 64.3 points obtained in the third quarter of the year; thus, indicating a 2.8 points decline over the period. The decline could be attributed to the poor access to FX for the importation of vital raw materials and machines that are not available locally; the progressive erosion of the disposable income of consumers; the sluggishness associated with the first quarter of the year promoted by the uncertainty around the likelihood of another lockdown in the wake of the new wave of COVID-19.

MACROECONOMIC PERFORMANCE

The MCCI report also covered the impact of key macroeconomic variables such as FX, lending rate, commercial bank loans, and federal government capital expenditure on the perspectives of CEOs of manufacturing concerns in the quarter under review. The report showed that manufacturers experienced many difficulties in sourcing FX in the fourth quarter of 2021 as against what was obtained in the preceding quarter.

For instance, 75.1 per cent of the CEOs covered by the survey reported that access to FX by manufacturers did not improve in the quarter under review, which is higher than 59 per cent that disagreed in the preceding quarter.

Moreover, limited access to funds variously has been identified as a persisting challenge of the manufacturing sector. In this quarter, 71.1 per cent of manufacturers noted that “the smallness of size of commercial bank loans to manufacturing does not support productivity in the sector.” This is higher than 62 per cent that made the same observation in the preceding quarter.

The report noted that the government has consistently budgeted for the upscaling infrastructure to support economic activities through the execution of capital projects. It, however, observed that “low patronage of

local industries, slow completion and general poor implementation of the identified capital project has been the bane of the system with high-cost impact on manufacturing concerns.

It stated that 57.4 per cent of manufacturers interviewed were of the view that the government’s capital expenditure implementation does not encourage manufacturing because they do not translate to adequate economic infrastructure and higher productivity.

OPERATING ENVIRONMENT PERFORMANCE

In the quarter under review, the perspectives of CEOs on the state of the manufacturing operating environment revealed mixed grill performance by exhibiting encouraging but slow positive growth. It identified over-regulation, high cost, and manufacturing unfriendly environment among the challenges faced by manufacturers during the period under review.

On one hand, the CEOs affirmed gradual reduction in inventory of unsold finished goods, improvement in local sourcing of raw materials and patronage of made in Nigeria goods. On the other hand, also the CEOs confirmed that issues of multiple and duplication of regulation, which often find expression in the excessive drive for tax revenue instead of widening the tax net, unfriendly tax practices of government agencies; poor access to the national ports leading to the high cost of clearing cargo and transporting goods seriously impeded the performance of the manufacturing sector during the period under review.

Estimated Impact of Macroeconomic Environment on the Manufacturing Sector There was a marginal increase in the cost of production and distribution goods by 0.4 percentage points in the fourth quarter of 2021 above 20.0 percentage points recorded in the third quarter.

However, the marginal increase in the period suggests that production and distribution costs are beginning to stabilize following the easing up of COVID-19 pandemic. Also, capacity utilisation fell further by two percentage points in the quarter under review from 3.0 decline recorded in the third quarter of the year while the volume of production declined further by 1.7 percentage points in the fourth quarter of the year against 4.0 percentage point decline recorded in the preceding quarter.

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

REPORT: NIGERIA’S DAILY OIL PRODUCTION TO HIT 1.7M BPD IN 2022 security issues affecting the safety of its people and operations, including sabotage, theft, and its weakening ability to enforce existing contractual rights.

“Production has also been

affected by the lagging effect of the 2020 oil price crash that saw a few marginal players (such as Lekoil) suspend drilling activities when they became economically unviable.

“Nonetheless, we expect the

sector to rebound in 2022.

This view is premised on the expected impact of elevated oil prices, which is incentivising drilling activities across board as evinced by the gradual increase in rig count since

the end of June 2021. Our optimism is also strengthened by the improving bank credit allocation to oil and gas sector,” it pointed out.

In addition, the report noted that the imminent launch of the

160,000 bpd Amukpe-Escravos export terminal could support production as it offers an alternative to the inefficient Trans Forcados pipeline, which had a 74.0 per cent uptime in the first nine months of 2021.

According to Seplat Energy, the construction of the entire pipeline system is effectively complete, and hydrocarbons lifting through the pipeline should commence soon, it explained.

30

TUESDAY, ͹΀˜ ͺ͸ͺͺ ˾ T H I S D AY

Tuesday, January 18, 2022

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THISDAY AFRINVEST 40 INDEX

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Fundamental Performance Metrics for THISDAY AFRINVEST 40 Index

ƟǀĞůLJ ĂĐĐŽƵŶƚ ĨŽƌ ϭϯ͘Ϯй͘

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THISDAY AFRINVEST 40

1,834.34

-0.07%

-1.1%

83.4%

15.0%

3.5%

1,050.50

0.0%

35.0%

10.0%

10.0%

14.7%

5.2%

190.00

0.0%

8.2%

-3.6%

-3.6%

179.2%

14.1%

70.00

2.2%

7.4%

4.4%

4.4%

19.1%

11.2%

25.15

-0.2%

6.5%

-3.3%

-3.3%

24.8%

3.9%

1 Airtel Africa PLC 2 MTN Nigeria Communications PLC 3 BUA Cement Plc 4 Guaranty Trust Holding Co PLC 5 Zenith Bank PLC 6 Dangote Cement PLC 7 Nestle Nigeria PLC

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0.9x

11.9%

26.3% 28.9%

3.0%

25.50

0.0%

6.3%

1.4%

1.4%

20.9%

2.8%

3.5x

0.7x

11.8%

0.0%

4.8%

5.1%

5.1%

40.4%

16.7%

13.4x

5.2x

5.9%

7.5%

1,435.00

0.0%

3.4%

-7.8%

-7.8%

106.8%

15.6%

27.8x

32.8x

4.2%

3.6%

12.00

0.0%

3.7%

5.3%

5.3%

8.4%

0.8%

7.1x

0.6x

3.7%

14.1%

25.60

-0.8%

3.7%

6.9%

6.9%

11.6%

8.4%

9.6x

1.1x

3.9%

10.4% 37.5%

1.4%

2.7x

0.4x

8.9%

1.8%

2.0x

0.4x

6.7%

48.8%

12 Stanbic IBTC Holdings PLC 13 Nigerian Brew eries PLC

37.00

0.0%

1.8%

2.8%

2.8%

15.4%

2.0%

8.5x

1.4x

11.3%

11.8%

47.30

2.8%

1.6%

-5.4%

-5.4%

5.3%

1.9%

43.6x

2.3x

2.3%

2.3%

14 SEPLAT Energy PLC 15 Ecobank Transnational Inc

690.00

0.0%

1.7%

6.2%

6.2%

3.4%

1.9%

15.8x

0.6x

6.0%

6.3%

8.70

1.2%

1.4%

0.0%

0.0%

14.8%

0.9%

2.4x

4.95

-3.9%

1.2%

0.0%

0.0%

-10.3%

-3.9%

142.00

0.0%

1.1%

0.0%

0.0%

38.8%

25.2%

9.7x

3.4x

5.2%

10.3%

28.25

0.0%

1.0%

-0.4%

-0.4%

16.4%

5.1%

4.4x

0.7x

5.8%

23.0%

2.65

1.9%

0.7%

3.9%

3.9%

12.0%

1.1%

2.3x

0.3x

8.3%

42.7%

2.31

0.0%

0.6%

-0.4%

-0.4%

9.7%

3.0%

6.2x

0.7x

9.5%

16.2%

17.00

0.0%

0.5%

-2.3%

-2.3%

15.3%

6.3%

11.1x

1.7x

8.8%

9.0%

3.04

-0.3%

0.5%

1.7%

1.7%

10.0%

1.0%

0.3x

5.0%

11.15

0.5%

0.4%

12.6%

12.6%

2.5x

6.3%

42.20

0.0%

0.4%

8.2%

8.2%

8.1%

3.8%

15.0x

1.2x

1.1%

6.7%

1.08

-5.3%

0.4%

12.5%

12.5%

11.1%

2.3%

5.7x

0.6x

0.9%

17.5%

35.6%

18.5%

3.9x

1.0x

4.6%

25.3%

2.1x

1.2% 3.1%

24 Guinness Nigeria PLC 25 Transnational Corp of Nigeria

0.3x

42.1%

0.9x

-11.5%

3.96

0.0%

0.3%

-12.0%

-12.0%

87.80

0.0%

0.3%

0.0%

0.0%

28 NASCON Allied Industries PLC 29 AIICO Insurance PLC

13.10

0.0%

0.3%

-0.8%

-0.8%

21.3%

6.9%

12.3x

2.5x

0.79

0.0%

0.3%

12.9%

12.9%

7.2%

1.1%

438.9x

0.8x

30 TotalEnergies Marketing Nigeri 31 Custodian and Allied Insurance

221.90

0.0%

0.3%

0.0%

0.0%

46.2%

9.3%

5.0x

2.0x

1.8%

19.8%

7.15

0.0%

0.2%

-9.5%

-9.5%

24.7%

7.5%

3.5x

0.8x

7.7%

28.4%

32 Vitafoam Nigeria PLC 33 Unilever Nigeria PLC

21.00

0.0%

0.2%

-6.7%

-6.7%

36.8%

14.7%

6.1x

2.1x

7.1%

16.5%

13.20

0.0%

0.2%

-9.0%

-9.0%

-1.3%

-0.8%

34 Julius Berger Nigeria PLC 35 Union Bank of Nigeria PLC

22.80

0.0%

0.2%

2.0%

2.0%

20.7%

2.5%

4.0x

0.7x

1.7%

25.2%

4.4%

15.7%

1.2x

-1.1%

5.65

0.0%

0.1%

-4.2%

-4.2%

7.1%

0.8%

6.4x

0.6x

4.75

0.4%

0.0%

7.5%

7.5%

14.5%

2.6%

2.0x

0.3x

0.89

0.0%

0.2%

23.6%

23.6%

13.7%

0.8%

4.2x

0.5x

4.5%

38 Sterling Bank PLC 39 Notore Chemical Industries Ltd 40 Transcorp Hotels Plc

1.55

-1.3%

0.1%

2.6%

2.6%

10.1%

0.9%

3.4x

0.3x

3.2%

62.50

0.0%

0.1%

0.0%

0.0%

-41.3%

-9.2%

5.38

0.0%

0.0%

0.0%

0.0%

0.9x

T R A N SC OR P

39.3

-5.3%

FB NH

25.5

0.0%

6.3%

GT C O

24.8

-0.2% 0.0%

SUN UA SSUR

0.34

9.7%

ET ER N A

6.00

7.0%

WA P IC

0.51

T ic k er

0.70

4.5%

Z EN IT H B A N K

20.9

47.30

2.8%

F ID ELIT YB K

10.4

1.9%

1.85

2.8%

NB

6.3

2.8%

70.00

2.2%

SOVR EN IN S

5.8

0.0%

R EGA LIN S

0.47

2.2%

M B EN EF IT

5.1

-7.4%

ĨƌŽŵ ϭ͘ϯdž ƌĞĐŽƌĚĞĚ ŝŶ ƚŚĞ ůĂƐƚ ƚƌĂĚŝŶŐ ƐĞƐƐŝŽŶ ĂƐ Ϯϰ ƐƚŽĐŬƐ

F ID ELIT YB K

2.65

1.9%

CHA M S

4.9

0.0%

dŚĞ ƵƉƐǁŝŶŐ ŝŶ ŚĞĂĚůŝŶĞ ŝŶŇĂƟŽŶ ƌĂƚĞ ƐƚĞŵŵĞĚ ůĂƌŐĞůLJ ĨƌŽŵ ƉƌĞƐƐƵƌĞƐ

C A VER T ON

1.73

1.8%

WA P IC

4.2

6.3%

ŝŶŇĂƟŽŶ ŝŶ ϮϬϮϭ ƉƌŝŶƚĞĚ Ăƚ ϭϳ͘Ϭй ĂŐĂŝŶƐƚ ϭϯ͘Ϯй ŝŶ ϮϬϮϬ͘

;ĂĚǀĂŶĐĞͬĚĞĐůŝŶĞ ƌĂƟŽͿ͕ ƐƚƌĞŶŐƚŚĞŶĞĚ͕ ƐĞƩůŝŶŐ Ăƚ ϭ͘ϲdž

B UA C EM EN T

29.7% -20.3%

P ric e C hg %

P ric e C hg %

N EIM ET H

2.3x

23.8%

Vo lum e

P ric e

NB

48.9%

T o p 10 T r a d e s b y V o l u m e

T o p 10 G a i n e r s

C H IP LC

8.1% 0.2%

36 Oando PLC 37 Wema Bank PLC

ŵŽŶƚŚƐ͕ ĂƐ ĐŽŶƐƵŵĞƌ ƉƌŝĐĞƐ ƌŽƐĞ Ăƚ Ă ĨĂƐƚĞƌ ƉĂĐĞ ŝŶ ĞĐĞŵďĞƌ ϮϬϮϭ͘ ƟŽŶ ŝŶ E' D ;нϯ͘ϯйͿ͘

ƐŝŶĐĞ DĂLJ ϮϬϭϳ͕ ĨƌŽŵ ϭ͘ϭй ŝŶ ŵĞĂƐƵƌĞĚ ƚŚĞ ƉƌĞǀŝŽƵƐ ŵŽŶƚŚ͘ KǀĞƌĂůů͕ ĂǀĞƌĂŐĞ /ŶǀĞƐƚŽƌƐ ƐĞŶƟŵĞŶƚ͕ ĂƐ ďLJ ŵĂƌŬĞƚ ďƌĞĂĚƚŚ

3.8x

19.5%

T ic k er

ϮϬϮϭ ĂŐĂŝŶƐƚ ϭϱ͘ϰй ŝŶ EŽǀĞŵďĞƌ ϮϬϮϭ ĂŶĚ ϭϱ͘ϴй ŝŶ ĞĐĞŵďĞƌ ϮϬϮϬ͘

7.3%

17.0%

Ğƌ͕ ƵƉ ϭ͘ϴй ĚƌŝǀĞŶ ďLJ ƉƌŝĐĞ ĂƉƉƌĞĐŝĂͲ ĞĐĞŵďĞƌ ϮϬϮϭ ƌĞƉŽƌƚ͕ ƐŚŽǁŝŶŐ Ă ŚĂůƚ ŝŶ ƚŚĞ ĚŝƐŝŶŇĂƟŽŶ ƚƌĞŶĚ ĂŌĞƌ ϴ

/ŶǀĞƐƚŽƌ ^ĞŶƟŵĞŶƚ ^ƚƌĞŶŐƚŚĞŶƐ KŶ Ă ŵͬŵ ďĂƐŝƐ͕ ƚŚĞ ŚĞĂĚůŝŶĞ ŝŶŇĂƟŽŶ ƌĂƚĞ ƌŽƐĞ ƚŽ ϭ͘ϴй͕ ƚŚĞ ƐŚĂƌƉĞƐƚ

5.5%

6.3x

1.2%

zĞƐƚĞƌĚĂLJ͕ ƚŚĞ EĂƟŽŶĂů ƵƌĞĂƵ ŽĨ ^ƚĂƟƐƟĐƐ ;E ^Ϳ ƉƵďůŝƐŚĞĚ ƚŚĞ W/

WƌĞĐŝƐĞůLJ͕ ƚŚĞ ŚĞĂĚůŝŶĞ ŝŶŇĂƟŽŶ ƌĂƚĞ ƌŽƐĞ ƚŽ ϭϱ͘ϲй LJͬLJ ŝŶ ĞĐĞŵďĞƌ

20.8x

33.6x

2.2%

ŽŶǀĞƌƐĞůLJ͕ ƚŚĞ /ŶĚƵƐƚƌŝĂů 'ŽŽĚƐ ŝŶĚĞdž ǁĂƐ ƚŚĞ ůŽŶĞ ŐĂŝŶͲ

13.7x

1.2%

ďĞĂƌŝƐŚ ĂƐ ϰ ŝŶĚŝĐĞƐ ůŽƐƚ͕ ϭ ŝŶĚĞdž ŐĂŝŶĞĚ ǁŚŝůĞ ƚŚĞ &ZͲ/ d

ĂŶĚ KZE Z^d ;Ͳϳ͘ϯйͿ ůĞĚ ĚĞĐůŝŶĞƌƐ͘ tĞ ĞdžƉĞĐƚ Ă ƌĞďŽƵŶĚ ŝŶ ƚŚĞ ϵ͘ϭйͿ͕ hE/> s Z ;Ͳϯ͘ϱйͿ͕ >/E< ^^hZ ;Ͳϲ͘ϰйͿ͕

16.7%

2.2%

26 NEM Insurance PLC 27 Presco PLC

/ ;нϲ͘ϯйͿ ůĞĚ ŐĂŝŶĞƌƐ ǁŚŝůĞ s Z/d ^< W ;Ͳϴ͘ϳйͿ͕ D E &/d ;Ͳϳ͘ϰйͿ͕ ϭ͘Ϯй ƌĞƐƉĞĐƟǀĞůLJ ŽŶ ƚŚĞ ďĂĐŬ ŽĨ ƉƌŽĮƚͲƚĂŬŝŶŐ ŝŶ E ^d> ;Ͳ

1.7%

2.3%

ĐƌŽƐƐ ƐĞĐƚŽƌƐ ƵŶĚĞƌ ŽƵƌ ĐŽǀĞƌĂŐĞ͕ ƉĞƌĨŽƌŵĂŶĐĞ ǁĂƐ

Ğƌ 'ŽŽĚƐ ^hEh ^^hZ ĂŶĚ /ŶƐƵƌĂŶĐĞ ŝŶĚŝĐĞƐ͕ ĂŶĚ ϮϮ ůĂŐŐĂƌĚƐ͘ ;нϵ͘ϳйͿ͕ d ZE ĚŽǁŶ ;нϳ͘ϬйͿ͕ ϰ͘ϲй ĂŶĚ t WͲ

5.5%

2.9%

22 FCMB Group Plc 23 United Capital PLC

ŝŶĚĞdž ƌĞŵĂŝŶĞĚ ŇĂƚ͘ dŽƉƉŝŶŐ ƚŚĞ ůĂŐŐĂƌĚƐ ĂƌĞ ƚŚĞ ŽŶƐƵŵͲ ƌĂƟŽͿ͕ ǁĞĂŬĞŶĞĚ ƚŽ Ϭ͘ϳdž ĨƌŽŵ Ϭ͘ϴdž ĂƐ ϭϱ ƐƚŽĐŬƐ ŐĂŝŶĞĚ ĂŐĂŝŶƐƚ

0.8x ot Applicable

0.0%

ůLJ ŽǁŝŶŐ ƚŽ ƉƌŝĐĞ ĚĞƉƌĞĐŝĂƟŽŶ ŝŶ KZE Z^d ;Ͳϳ͘ϯйͿ͕ D E &/d ;Ͳ

/ŶǀĞƐƚŽƌ ƐĞŶƟŵĞŶƚ͕ ĂƐ ŵĞĂƐƵƌĞĚ ďLJ ŵĂƌŬĞƚ ďƌĞĂĚƚŚ ;ĂĚǀĂŶĐĞͬĚĞĐůŝŶĞ

5.2x

Divindend Earnings Yield Yield

-1.2%

E' D ;േϭϰϱ͘ϬŵͿ͕ ĂŶĚ 'd K ;േϭϯϰ͘ϴŵͿ ůĞĚ ďLJ ǀĂůƵĞ͘

/ŶǀĞƐƚŽƌ ^ĞŶƟŵĞŶƚ tĂŶĞƐ

P/BV

8.15

20 AXA Mansard Insurance PLC 21 Dangote Sugar Refinery PLC

P/E

9.50

,KEz&>KhZ ;нϬ͘ϯйͿ͘ ŽŶǀĞƌƐĞůLJ͕ ůŽƐƐĞƐ ŝŶ t W K ;ͲϬ͘ϴйͿ ĂŶĚ hd/y ƵŶŝƚƐͿ͕ ĂŶĚ K E K ;ϳ͘ϯŵ ƵŶŝƚƐͿ ǁŚŝůĞ E ^d> ;േϮ͘ϮďŶͿ͕

ĞĂƌŝƐŚ ^ĞĐƚŽƌ WĞƌĨŽƌŵĂŶĐĞ

ROA

10 Access Bank PLC 11 United Bank for Africa PLC

18 Flour Mills of Nigeria PLC 19 Fidelity Bank PLC

ϳ͘ϰйͿ͕ h ;Ͳϭ͘ϮйͿ ĂŶĚ 'd K ;ͲϬ͘ϮйͿ͘

ROE

270.00

8 FBN Holdings Plc 9 Lafarge Africa PLC

ĚƌŝǀĞŶ ďLJ ďƵLJŝŶŐ ŝŶƚĞƌĞƐƚ ŝŶ d ZE ;нϳ͘ϬйͿ͕ K E K ;нϬ͘ϰйͿ͕ ĂŶĚ ďLJ ǀŽůƵŵĞ ǁĞƌĞ dZ E^ KZW ;ϭϭ͘ϵŵ ƵŶŝƚƐͿ͕ & E, ;ϭϭ͘ϭŵ

ƚŚĞ /ŶƐƵƌĂŶĐĞ ĂŶĚ ĂŶŬŝŶŐ ŝŶĚŝĐĞƐ ĨĞůů Ϭ͘Ϯй ĂŶĚ Ϭ͘ϭй ƌĞƐƉĞĐƟǀĞͲ

Price Change Index to Date

Ticker

16 International Brew eries PLC 17 Okomu Oil Palm PLC

;ͲϮ͘ϬйͿ ƉƵůůĞĚ ƚŚĞ /ŶĚƵƐƚƌŝĂů 'ŽŽĚƐ ŝŶĚĞdž ůŽǁĞƌ ďLJ Ϯ͘Ϭй͘ ůƐŽ͕

Previous Price Current Price Change Weighting Change YTD

Current Price

ĂĚǀĂŶĐĞĚ ǁŚŝůĞ ϭϱ ƐƚŽĐŬƐ ĚĞĐůŝŶĞĚ͘ DZ^ ;нϵ͘ϵйͿ͕ D zͲ

ŝŶ ƚŚĞ ĨŽŽĚ ďĂƐŬĞƚ ;ϭϳ͘ϰй LJͬLJ ŝŶ ĞĐĞŵďĞƌ ϮϬϮϭ ǀƐ ϭϳ͘Ϯй LJͬLJ ŝŶ EŽͲ

< Z ;нϵ͘ϴйͿ͕ ĂŶĚ ,KEz&>KhZ ;нϵ͘ϴйͿ ůĞĚ ŐĂŝŶĞƌƐ ǀĞŵďĞƌ ϮϬϮϭͿ͘ tĞ ŽďƐĞƌǀĞĚ ƚŚĂƚ ĂŵŝĚ ƚŚĞ ĨĞƐƟǀŝƟĞƐ͕ ƉƌŝĐĞ ŽĨ ĨĂƌŵ

T o p 10 T r a d e s b y V a l u e

T o p 10 L o s e r s P ric e C hg %

T ic k er

Value

VER IT A SKA P

0.21

-8.7%

GT C O

625.1

ŵŽŶƚŚ͘ ƚŚĞ ŽƚŚĞƌ ĐŽƌĞ WƌĞǀŝŽƵƐ ŝŶĚĞdž ŵĂŝŶƚĂŝŶĞĚ ŝƚƐ ƉĂĐĞ ĨƌŽŵ EŽͲ ^dK < KŶ ;Ͳϰ͘ϴйͿ ůĞĚ ŚĂŶĚ͕ ůŽƐĞƌƐ͘ ĚĂLJ͕ ǁĞ ĞdžƉĞĐƚ ƚŚĞ

M B EN EF IT

0.25

-7.4%

Z EN IT H B A N K

533.0

0.0%

ǀĞŵďĞƌ ĂƐ ŝŶŇĂƟŽŶ ƌĂƚĞ ůŽŐŐĞĚ Ăƚ ϭϯ͘ϵй LJͬLJ ŝŶ ĞĐĞŵďĞƌ ϮϬϮϬ͘ WƌŝĐĞƐ

C OR N ER ST

0.51

-7.3%

FB NH

306.0

0.0%

B UA F OOD S

61.80

-6.4%

NB

298.2

2.8%

-5.4%

M TNN

182.7

0.0%

145.3

2.2% -6.4%

ǁŚŝůĞ dZ E^ ;Ͳϴ͘ϯйͿ͕ > ^ K ;Ͳϲ͘ϳйͿ͕ ĂŶĚ >/s Ͳ ƉƌŽĚƵĐĞ ƐƵƌŐĞĚ Ϯ͘ϰй ŵͬŵ ŝŶ ĞĐĞŵďĞƌ ϮϬϮϭ ĂŐĂŝŶƐƚ Ϭ͘ϵй ŝŶ ƚŚĞ ƉƌŝŽƌ

ŵĂƌŬĞƚ ƐĞŶƟŵĞŶƚ ƚŽ ƌĞŵĂŝŶ ŵŝdžĞĚ͕ ĂƐ ĞĂƌŶŝŶŐƐ ƐĞĂƐŽŶ

ŽĨ Ăůů ĐŽŵƉŽŶĞŶƚ ŝƚĞŵƐ ŽĨ ƚŚĞ ĐŽƌĞ ŝŶĚĞdž ƐĂǀĞ DŝƐĐĞůůĂŶĞŽƵƐ 'ŽŽĚƐ Θ

ŐƌĂĚƵĂůůLJ ǁŝŶĚƐ ƵƉ͘

^ĞƌǀŝĐĞƐ ƌŽƐĞ ŵͬŵ ŝŶ ĞĐĞŵďĞƌ ϮϬϮϭ͘

T ic k er

C OUR T VILLE

0.35

P ric e C hg % -0.2%

T R A N SC OR P

1.08

-5.3%

B UA C EM EN T

IN T B R EW

4.95

-3.9%

B UA F OOD S

76.5

-2.9%

D A N GC EM

66.4

0.0%

43.1

-5.3%

41.7

0.0%

J A IZ B A N K

Afrinvest West Africa Limited

P ric e

0.66

F T N C OC OA

0.36

-2.7%

T R A N SC OR P

F ID SON

7.30

-2.7%

N EST LE

Brokerage

Asset Management

Investment Research

Adedoyin Allen | aallen@afrinvest.com Robert Omotunde | romotunde@afrinvest.com Abiodun Keripe | AKeripe@afrinvest.com Taiwo Ogundipe | togundipe@afrinvest.com

Christopher Omoh | comoh@afrinvest.com

Damilare Asimiyu| dasimiyu@afrinvest.com

31

TUESDAY, ͹΀˜ ͺ͸ͺͺ ˾ T H I S D AY

FOR THE RECORD

Ogun Exemplifies Constructive FG, State Engagements Being the text of an address by President Muhammadu Buhari during his official visit to Ogun State, last Thursday, January 13, 2022

L

et me start by thanking His Excellency, the Governor and the People of Ogun State for the reception accorded me and my team on our arrival in the State. I had planned to be here few weeks ago in December last year but for a conflict of schedules.

This welcome by the large crowd brings back the nostalgia of my first arrival on this soil as a young infantry officer in the Nigerian Army at the then Lafenwa Barracks in Abeokuta, not long after independence.

The traditional hospitality of the people of this State has not waned a bit. Today, I am “Omowale” and very happy at this homecoming to meet my brothers and sisters whose goodwill I have always enjoyed.

Thank you.

The last time I visited Ogun State was during the electioneering campaign and build-up to the 2019 general elections. Between the last visit and now, so much has changed. The then candidate, Prince Dapo Abiodun, is today the performing Governor of Nigeria’s Gateway State. I have read and heard so much about this silent but effective achiever and deliverer of good governance.

I recall that Governor Dapo Abiodun visited me at the Presidential Villa at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in year 2020. During that visit, he presented to me a compendium of achievements in his first 52 weeks.

The compendium contained a good number of projects as encapsulated under the Development Pillars with acronym: I-S-E-Y-A. He could not commission the projects then because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The compendium surprised me. I wondered how he could deliver all the projects under the then prevailing circumstances.

I am therefore delighted to accept his invitation.

The invitation was not just to come and see or inspect but to commission fully completed projects that his Administration has delivered for the wellness and wellbeing of the people of Ogun State.

Today, we are here to be part of the development history of Ogun State. I am very pleased to be in the Gateway State, which is my first visit to any State in the New Year. It is my fervent hope that year 2022 will bring all of us good tidings.

Today, I am here in Ogun State to commission FIVE visionary and trail-blazing projects:a. the Gateway City Gate; b. the 42-Kilometre Sagamu Interchange-Abeokuta Road; andc. the 14km Ijebu-Ode-Epe Expressway.

Also to be commissioned are two Housing Estates for low, medium and high income earners at Kobape and Oke-Mosan in Abeokuta, respectively. This is a high number of projects to be commissioned in one day, and it is gratifying.

On arrival earlier today, I commissioned the 14km Ijebu Ode- Mojoda - Epe Road, which has been reconstructed into a modern expressway by your Administration. This impressive road will complement the Sagamu-Benin Expressway that the Federal Government is currently reconstructing; also due for commissioning this year.

Just across the road is the 42-kilometer SagamuInterchange-Abeokuta Road which the state Government has reconstructed and equipped with street lights and other modern road furniture. That road, which I will commission shortly, enjoys a direct linkage with the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway that the Federal Government is rebuilding and due for completion later this year.

I am particularly impressed by the quality and standard of your road projects, and the creative way you have deployed resources to reconstruct and rehabilitate them. It is significant to note that the two road projects being commissioned today are federal roads. This is an example of constructive engagement, cooperation and collaboration between the States and Federal Government.

These roads also fit well into our rail transportation masterplan that connects Lagos, Nigeria’s economic capital to Kano, with Ogun State having more rail stations, along the Lagos-Ibadan rail corridor.

It is equally heartwarming that your housing programme cuts across different social strata. Some are for the medium and high income earners, whilst others are especially for the low-income earners and are truly affordable, costing as low as N6 million only per unit. This is inclusiveness at work and it is very commendable.

This Gateway City Gate Project, where we are now, is not just a Park beautification project. It depicts that something new is happening in Ogun State, a

Buhari welcoming entrance into the State Capital at the centre point of the State.

It is also an ICON depicting the joining of hands for building the future of Ogun State in togetherness.

I look forward to a busy but exciting day ahead with the commissioning of these laudable and impactful projects of your Administration.

Your Excellency, well done! I am proud of what you have done for your State and your people. You have made our great Party, the APC, proud too. You are a worthy example of promises made, promises kept. These lofty projects could not have materialised without your huge investment and commitment to security of lives and property.

This has made Ogun State one of the safest and

most peaceful States in the country and investors’ destination of choice. You have justified the mandate of the people of Ogun State. You have represented our Party very well.

I have also listened to your requests to give priority attention to the Lagos-Ota-Abeokuta and the Sango Otta-Idiroko Roads respectively. Let me assure the people of Ogun State that these roads will receive Federal Government attention. We are considering extending tax credit as funding option for the reconstruction of these roads, as we have done for the 100km Sagamu Interchange-Papalanto-Ilaro Road.

I will also consider the approval of the reconstruction of Sagamu-Ogijo Road by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) under the tax credit scheme.

I congratulate the people of Ogun State for having such a focused, deliberate and inclusive Administration under the watch of His Excellency, Prince Dapo Abiodun. I enjoin you to continue to support him for the successful implementation of the “Building our Future Together” Agenda of his Administration.

Your support is required to deliver more development projects that will ensure an improved social-economic development of the State and individual prosperity of the citizenry.

Your Excellency, whilst commending you for your achievements so far, I urge you not to rest on your oars. The reward for success is more hardwork to meet the increasing expectations of the people. When state governments deliver impactful projects, in consultations with stakeholders, like we have witnessed in Ogun State, the trajectory of our national development will be enhanced.

Once again, I thank Your Excellency, for the invitation and the opportunity to identify with the giant strides going on in Ogun State.

I appreciate the people of Ogun State for the warm reception accorded me and my entourage. It is also with a sense of responsibility that I receive and cherish the honourary indigeneship bestowed on me as symbolised by the presentation of the key to the Gateway State by Governor Abiodun.

I will leave Ogun State with fond memories and look forward to enjoying the privilege of my honorary indigeneship.

It is now with great pleasure that I commission this Gateway City Gate. I thank you and may God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

We’re Building the Ogun State of Our Dreams This address was selivered by the Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, at the welcome ceremony of the official visit to Ogun State by President Muhammadu Buhari on January 13, 2022.

M

r. President, I most heartily welcome you on behalf of the Government and good people of Ogun State to your second home, the Gateway State. We are most delighted that you are here after the postponement of the initial visit scheduled for December, 2021. Your visit to Ogun State today is not just a routine official visit of a sitting President to a State. It is much more.

It is a honour done to the good people of the Gateway State. This is your first visit since my assumption of office. And we look forward to many of such. The rousing welcome for Your Excellency and the entourage by our people is an expression of our love for you.

A little over a year ago, I was with Your Excellency to share some success stories of the stewardship of our first year in office. This was presented in a Compendium.

COVID-19 protocols did not allow for gatherings such as formal commissioning of projects. Your Excellency, you are here on our invitation to see our modest contributions to the continued development of our dear State in line with our “Building our Future Together” Agenda. We thank you for accepting to come.

Let me publicly acknowledge and also thank Mr. President for the support and goodwill we have continued to enjoy in Ogun State even before we were sworn into office. All the projects and programmes of our Administration in Ogun State are deliberate and guided by our vision. The vision is to give Ogun State a focused and qualitative governance and create an enabling environment for a Public Private Sector Partnership to thrive. We believe this is fundamental to the socio-economic development of the State and individual prosperity of our people.

The choice of the five projects that we are commissioning today from our many landmark projects was a daunting task. These are just a few of our achievements. We have so much more to showcase. These selected few that Your Excellency will commission are however symbolic of the various types of projects across all sectors of our dear State’s economy. And, they are spread all through the THREE Senatorial Districts. Mr. President, I have the honour to report that our Administration in Ogun State has continued to fulfil all its promises to the people within the available means.

It is noteworthy that all our projects have the inputs and are informed by the needs of the people as expressed by them at different engagement fora that we provide.

This is because we anchor our “Building our Future Together” Agenda on inclusiveness, equity, fairness, transparency, accountability, justice, and obedience to the rule of law. Under our FIVE Development Pillars with the acronym I.S.E.Y.A; that is I – for Infrastructure, S - for Social Welfare and Wellbeing, E - for Education, Y - for Youth Empowerment, A for Agriculture and Food Security, we based our choices on what the people say they want and we get their buy-in for implementation.

Mr. President, may I now provide a panoramic view of the five projects that have been scheduled for commissioning today. The Gateway City Gate where we are now, for instance, is an iconic monument that

Abiodun not only beautifies the environment, but a reflection of the new approach to governance in the State. It symbolizes the convergence, harmony, and unity amongst all the groups and sections of the State. It is not just a physical Intersection of the three Senatorial Districts; it is a symbol of the togetherness of our people and the legendary warmth and hospitality to our visitors and guests.

The Ijebu-Ode-Epe Road, a Federal Road, which Your Excellency commissioned earlier, is another strategic arterial road that links the Lekki / Epe corridor of Lagos State to the eastern corridor of Ogun State at Ijebu- Ode. With this road, socio-economic activities in the South East and South South zones of our country will receive a boost through the linkage of the road to Sagamu-Benin Expressway for easier access by motorists to Lagos, Nigeria’s largest economy.

In the same vein, the Sagamu Interchange-Abeokuta Road is 42km in length and is the main arterial road that leads to our Capital City. It is a dual carriageway with streetlights, median and other road furniture.

This road, though a federal road, was redesigned and reconstructed to address the daily challenges being experienced by commuters, and to make commuting between the State Capital and other parts of the State and, indeed, the rest of the country a safe, secure and pleasant experience. The two roads are very significant

and critical to the socio-economic development of not only Ogun State but the Nation at large.

Mr. President, two of our many housing projects have been completed and ready for you to commission.

Our affordable Housing Estate at Kobape in Abeokuta comprises of 526 units of 2 and 3-bedroom bungalows.

The King’s Court at Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta is a middle/ high income Housing Estate and has 31 of its 85 units in the first phase fully completed. The remaining 54 units are at various stages of completion.

Furthermore, several similar housing projects are under construction in different parts of the State. Our aggressive housing programme is aimed at delivering 2,500 units of houses by the end of our first term. So far, we have achieved over 60% of the target within 30 months and are confident that we will deliver on this commitment, as we have done in all our programmes.

Your Excellency, we will like to inform you that all these projects are interrelated. These are not just projects - they are also part of our Agenda for development and have been deliberately conceived and implemented to also achieve employment generation; poverty alleviation and local capacity development, as most of the people working on these projects are local artisans, technicians and tradesmen and women.

We have many more projects that could have been scheduled for commissioning today – but for time constraint. Yet, there are many others at different stages of completion. These include the first phase of the Ogun State International Agro Cargo Airport at Ilishan, and Atan-LUSADA-Agbara expressway which leads to Agbara Industrial Estate, the industrial nerve center of not just our State, but also Nigeria and indeed, the entire ECOWAS Sub-region. It is therefore our hope that Your Excellency will graciously grant our request to return and commission more projects when they are completed and ready for commissioning later in the year.

Beyond these physical projects, we have also embarked on several fiscal and policy reforms to enable the effectiveness and efficiency of Government Some of these are the reinvigoration of the Security Trust Fund; establishment of Public-Private Partnership Office; launch of Ogun Digital Economy Infrastructure Projects; and Ogun State Land Revenue and Management Systems (OLARMS). Others include establishment of Ogun State Investment Promotion Agency. The Business Environment councilwhich provides a truly one-stop-shop for Big Investors; and business bottlenecks in dealing with Government establishment of Ogun State Enterprise Development Agency to strengthen the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and boost their capacities; and, All these have led to an increased IGR of about 95B in 2021 .

We have continued to improve on our Ease-ofDoing-Business (EoD). Ogun State now ranks 4th on the scale of Ease-of-Doing-Business in Nigeria. We will continue to improve on that, until we become number one! We appreciate that as existing businesses continue to thrive, more investments must also be attracted and start-ups be encouraged. Today, I am pleased to report that Ogun State is ranked the no 1 investment destination of choice, not only in Nigeria but in the entire West-African sub region. We will continue to make Ogun State a place to “live, work and play”.

Your Excellency, that is the Ogun State of our dream. And, there are testimonials that we are on the right part. In the last 30 months, we have restored people’s trust and confidence in their government.

We will continue to rekindle the hope of the people; and will NEVER take their mandate for granted.

Mr. President, I wish to thank you for the post-humous honour and recognition done to our illustrious son, the martyr of democracy, Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola, GCFR, by acknowledging his victory in the 1993 presidential polls and by conferring on him, the highest National Award as the Grand Commander of the Federal Republic (GCFR). You have not only honoured the man, but you also honoured the entire people of Ogun State. With this singular act, you have indeed strengthened the democratic ethos and principles and given practical demonstration to the line in our National anthem that “the labour of our heroes past shall never be in vain” On behalf of the people of Ogun State, I also thank Your Excellency for the tremendous support the federal government gave to Ogun State in our fight against COVID-19 pandemic. In particular, we appreciate the choice of our State to pioneer the COVID-19 mass vaccination campaign. We are pleased to note that the Federal Ministry of Health has rated us the leading State in achieving mass vaccination in the country.

In the same breadth, the relative peace and security we enjoy in Ogun State is a direct outcome of the support of Mr. President for our various initiatives to ensure security of lives and property. On our part, we will continue to support and collaborate with all the security agencies in our State, both Federal and State owned.

Mr. President, i want to thank you for facilitating that the central bank provides us support particularly as we embraced and domesticated your eat what you grow and grow what you eat policy in agriculture.

To date we have through anchor borrowers scheme, we have turned about 30,000 young men and women into Agripreneurs. Your Excellency, I wish to specially thank you for the construction of the Lagos-Ibadan new standard railway gauge. The longest part of the rail-line is in Ogun State with five stations, the most by any State. We also thank Mr. President for the ongoing reconstruction of the Lagos-Ibadan expressway. The longest stretch of that road is also in Ogun State and is due for completion this year. These projects are particularly strategic to the economic development of not only Ogun State but the entire Nation. The railway and the improved Lagos-Ibadan Expressway have brought tremendous increase in economic activities in our dear State and with other States.

In the same vein, we appreciate your approval to Aliko Dangote for the reconstruction of SagamuInterchange-Papalanto-Ilaro Road through the Federal Government’s tax credit scheme. Let me also appeal that the same tax credit scheme be extended to the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) for the reconstruction of Sagamu-Ogijo-Ikorodu Expressway. This road not only leads to one of the largest depots of NNPC at Mosinmi, Sagamu, it is also an alternative road to the ever-busy Lagos-Ibadan expressway.

Continued online

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T H I S D AY ˾ ˜ JANUARY 18, 2022

BUSINESS/MONEYGUIDE

Edo Explores Potentials in Water Transport to Boost Economy The Edo State Government is sustaining programmes and reforms to harness the huge economic potentials in its water transportation ecosystem to boost economic growth and development, in line with the government’s Making Edo Great Again (MEGA) Agenda.

Chairman of the Edo State Oil and Gas Producing Areas Development Commission (EDSOGPADEC), Kennedy Osifo disclosed this to journalists in Benin City, when he led the Edo State Commissioner of Police, CP Philip Ogbadu, and other board members of the commission on an inspection tour of some of EDSOGPADEC’s projects and facilities.

The team inspected the recently procured four Nr200HP Armoured gunboats and four speedboats at the Government House, Benin City; the Marine

Police Base, on Ologbo River, and the Modern Concrete Pedestrian Jetty, with awaiting Lounge at Ologbo, Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Area of Edo State.

Osifo noted that the state’s waterways offer a unique economic opportunity to the government and citizens, noting that if properly harnessed, the waterways have the potential to boost the state’s revenue and ensure economic prosperity for the state.

Reassuring that the state government will not relent in strengthening security on its coastal areas and waterways, the Commission’s chair said the facilities would boost the water transport sector in the state, adding, “it will also facilitate 24-hour business activities; the Concrete Pedestrian Jetty Lounge would be used by passengers who will board the speed boats to their

destinations.”

Noting that the vision of the Commission is in line with the MEGA plan of the Governor Godwin Obaseki-led administration to make Edo an economic and investment hub, the Commission’s chairman reassured that the government will sustain efforts to ensure the influx of investors into the state.

The EDSOGPADEC boss added, “these facilities would also positively affect the physically challenged as there is a part on the walkway of the Jetty designed for the physically challenged.

Also, there would be 24 hours electricity supply to boost business frontiers.”

On his part, CP Ogbadu thanked Governor Obaseki for putting up formidable initiatives in securing the waterways in the three oil and gas producing local government areas in the state.

L-R: Head, Competition & Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC), Lagos, Susie Onwuka; Executive Director, Lagos Directorate, Wema Bank, Oluwole Ajimisinmi; Divisional Head, Retail Business, Wema Bank, Dotun Ifebogun; and Head, Liability Product, Wema Bank, Temitope Ogundeji at the ALAT 5for5 Pomo draw held at the University of Lagos, Akoka, Lagos…recently

Investor Kicks Against Negative Reports on Titan Farms Kemi Olaitan ÓØ ÌËÎËØ An investor with Titan Multibusiness Investment Limited, Mrs. Adeola Awoleru, has condemned negative reports against the firm, saying such malicious might jeopardize the good understanding that exists between the company and its major stakeholders.

Awoleru in a statement on behalf of committee formed by the investors with the agric firm vouched for the integrity of Titan Farms considering effective communication modality created by the firm to address partners and investors.

According to her, “I don’t see any fraudulent tendencies from the way the firm is handling the agro-commodity investment dispute, because more than N55 million was paid to different investors in December.

More than N550 million has been paid from July to December 2021 and I personally got N12.7 million settlement with arrangement and assurance by the firm to continue in that form.

“This has proved that Titan Farms is quite different from several phony agric investment companies which fraudulently deceived Nigerians into failed agric schemes, and that is why we are pleading with people that are sponsoring malicious report against them, it might affect the good understanding we (investors) have with them.”

She asserted that the firm has also explained to them how it is going to alter its business model by introducing new product lines, stating that the new product sizes will cover more customer base and accrue more funds to lubricate the investments plans.

“Firms with fraudulent tendencies will not be open in its approach by soliciting for patience and support at difficult times in order to fulfill contractual obligations within a reasonably specified timeframe”, she added.

Meanwhile, a statement from the firm attributed the underperformance recorded recently to the adverse effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on the economy which has grossly affected the Nigerian business climate as well as the illegal influx of foreign rice and the recent insecurity challenge rocking the country.

The statement read, “On behalf of the company, I want to appreciate all our shareholders, stakeholders, investors, distributors and employees for their immense support since the beginning of our operation.

Firm Launches App to Detect Fake X-Pression Braids Emmanuel Olorunda-Otaru The management of Solpia Nigeria Limited, maker of XPression Rich and Ultra Braids, has announced a new innovation, called: ‘Hidden Tag’ application, to help users identify genuine brands of its hair extension, and as well check the activities of fakers of its products.

The Managing Director of the company, Mr. Diamond Jeong, lamented the far-reaching effect of the unscrupulous fakers’ activity on the company, during the unveiling of the new technology in their office in Lagos recently.

He said the company pays huge taxes to government and

generates foreign exchange in exports, and employs about 8,000 workers, adding that this unscrupulous activity is affecting their production, sales and exports, and could throw the teaming workers into the labour market, if the fakery continues.

He therefore called on the relevant government agencies to assist the company fight the menace. According to the company’s Marketing Manager, Mrs. Grace Ejikeme, while unveiling the ‘Hidden Tag’, said, ‘’some greedy businessmen have started importing fake and substandard X-Pression braid into the country, and distributing them in markets across the globe. Some of these

fake products are highly flammable and pose grave danger to the consumers as some stylists still use open flame to trim off fly-away from their braids to give it their desired smooth appearance’’. ‘’We have combated this menace through various means, including; designing special hologram sticker to help intending buyers distinguish between the original and the fake, but this did not bring a permanent solution.

This new innovation; ‘Hidden Tag’, is a surefire way of identifying original X-Pression product, and it will help the company to eliminate fake X-Pression braids in the market’’, she said.

N-Skills Workshop Equips 37 Master Trainers Olawale Ajimotokan ÓØ ÌßÔË The N-Skills Programme under the National Social Investment Programme N-Power has embarked on a training of 37 master trainers in Abuja The Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development Sadiya Umar Farouq declared the training session open.

She said that the N-Skills programme targeted marginalized and disadvantaged population,

including those with primary or no-formal education.

The minister was represented by the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Bashir Nura Alkali.

The 37 master trainers will coordinate the training of 6,475 youths selected from the 36 States and FCT. She noted that the success of the programme would depend to a large extent on the capacity and commitment of the trainers to ensure effective delivery of the training in the core areas

of life skills, foundational skills and entrepreneurial skills.

“The ministry worked with experienced training service providers to carefully select those to be trained today as Master Trainers. We expect these Master Trainers to effectively play their role of coordinating the training of the target beneficiaries of the N-Skills programme in their respective States and FCT. She expressed confidence that with the calibre of resource persons and facilitators assembled the goal will be realised.

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) 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 ˜ ͵

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).

33

T H I S D AY ˾ ˜ ͯͶ˜ ͰͮͰͰ

‘PSP Licences to MTN, Airtel, Others Threat to Banking Sector in 2022’ Kayode Tokede Banking analyst at Vetiva Research has expressed that the new Payment Service Bank (PSB) licences issued

by Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to MTN Nigeria and Airtel posed a threat to some lines of the banks’ businesses in 2022.

The analyst noted that interest rates poised to recover slowly, while inflationary

pressures remain high.

The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) yesterday disclosed that the inflation rate closed December 2021 at 15.63 per cent from 16.47 per cent in January 2021.

In its 2022 Outlook titled “Running scared”, Vetiva Research projected that the headwinds observed in the banking sector in 2021 will start to ease.

The Banking Analyst at

P R I C E S MAIN BOARD

F O R

DEALS

Vetiva, Joshua Odebisi in a statement said: “Next year, we expect interest rates to remain in a steady upward trajectory, as government borrowing continues to rise to fund an ever-expanding deficit.

“However, we do expect inflation to continue to outpace this rise, meaning negative real returns for investors in the market.

“Furthermore, we do expect

S E C U R I T I E S

MARKET PRICE

QUANTITY TRADED

VALUE TRADED ( N )

this to have an impact on interest income from investment securities, with the yield on interest-bearing assets likely to remain below 2019 levels for the near to medium term.”

The analyst also gave a modest outlook for loan growth in the coming year, with loans and advances projected to grow steadily, albeit at an unspectacular pace.

He mentioned that “banks’ focus will continue to shift

T R A D E D MAIN BOARD

AS

towards Non-Interest Revenue growth, although headwinds pose a challenge to this strategy.”

Some of those headwinds mentioned were the lack of enthusiasm for the secondary Fixed Income market, low foreign exchange liquidity keeping international investors away, the possibility of the new PSBs taking away a significant share of transaction fees and potentially lower revaluation

O F

gains.

He highlighted some of the potential effects of the new Basel III regulations on the sector, from the need for some banks to raise additional capital, to the possibility of lower dividend payouts due to higher Tier-I capital requirements and the need for banks to hold more liquid assets going forward potentially impacting dividend payout rates in the coming years.

1 7 / 1 / 2 0 2 2 DEALS

MARKET PRICE

QUANTITY TRADED

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34

TUESDAY, JANUARY 18, 2022 • 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 14Jan-2022, 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 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 9.75% AIICO Balanced Fund 3.38 3.44 -4.46% 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 7.24% Anchoria Equity Fund 139.47 141.21 0.04% Anchoria Fixed Income Fund 1.16 1.16 1.39% info@anchoriaam.com 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 20.38 21.00 0.48% ARM Discovery Balanced Fund 457.00 470.78 1.29% ARM Ethical Fund 39.32 40.51 0.93% ARM Eurobond Fund ($) 1.07 1.07 -1.17% ARM Fixed Income Fund 1.01 1.02 0.06% ARM Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 8.55% AVA GLOBAL ASSET MANAGERS LIMITED info@avacapitalgroup.com Web: www.avacapitalgroup.com Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn AVA GAM Fixed Income Dollar Fund 108.24 108.24 0.28% AVA GAM Fixed Income Naira Fund 1,072.05 1,072.05 0.41% AXA MANSARD INVESTMENTS LIMITED investmentcare@axamansard.com Web: www.axamansard.com; Tel: +2341-4488482 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn AXA Mansard Equity Income Fund N/A N/A N/A AXA Mansard Money Market Fund N/A N/A N/A CAPITAL EXPRESS ASSET AND TRUST LIMITED info@capitalexpressassetandtrust.com Web: www.capitalexpressassetandtrust.com; Tel: +234 803 307 5048 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn CEAT Fixed Income Fund 2.06 2.06 6.99% Capital Express Balanced Fund (Formerly: Union Trustees Mixed Fund) 2.22 2.26 42.56% CARDINALSTONE ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED mutualfunds@cardinalstone.com Web: www.cardinalstoneassetmanagement.com ; Tel: +234 (1) 710 0433 4 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn CardinalStone Fixed Income Alpha Fund 1.05 1.05 0.38% CHAPELHILL DENHAM MANAGEMENT LTD investmentmanagement@chapelhilldenham.com Web: www.chapelhilldenham.com, Tel: +234 461 0691 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Chapelhill Denham Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 9.66% Paramount Equity Fund 16.95 17.26 0.74% Women's Investment Fund 139.80 141.40 0.54% CORDROS ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED assetmgtteam@cordros.com Web: www.cordros.com, Tel: 019036947 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Cordros Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 9.33% Cordros Milestone Fund 133.96 134.82 1.22% 110.63 110.63 0.18% Cordros Dollar Fund ($) 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 N/A N/A N/A Coronation Balanced Fund N/A N/A N/A Coronation Fixed Income Fund N/A N/A N/A 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 7.45% EDC Nigeria Money Market Fund Class B 1,000,000.00 1,000,000.00 7.81% EDC Nigeria Fixed Income Fund 1,149.34 1,150.98 -1.79% assetmanagement@emergingafricafroup.com EMERGING AFRICA ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED Web:www.emergingafricagroup.com/emerging-africa-asset-management-limited/, Tel: 08039492594 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Emerging Africa Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 8.74% Emerging Africa Bond Fund 1.05 1.05 2.91% Emerging Africa Balanced Diversity Fund 1.12 1.12 0.55% Emerging Africa Eurobond Fund 104.71 104.71 0.10% 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 Bond Fund 1,400.10 11.33%

FBN Balanced Fund 176.30 -0.09%

FBN Halal Fund 116.09 9.35%

FBN Money Market Fund 100.00 9.16%

FBN Dollar Fund (Retail) FBN Nigeria Smart Beta Equity Fund FCMB ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED Web: www.fcmbassetmanagement.com; Tel: +234 1 462 2596 Fund Name Legacy Money Market Fund Legacy Debt Fund Legacy Equity Fund Legacy USD Bond Fund FSDH ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD Web: www.fsdhaml.com; Tel: 01-270 4884-5; 01-280 9740-1 Fund Name Coral Balanced Fund Coral Income Fund Coral Money Market Fund

122.45 149.72

122.45 3.82% 151.51 -0.23% fcmbamhelpdesk@fcmb.com

Bid Price N/A N/A N/A N/A

Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A coralfunds@fsdhgroup.com

Bid Price N/A N/A N/A

Offer Price N/A N/A N/A

Yield / T-Rtn 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 N/A N/A N/A Vantage Balanced Fund N/A N/A N/A Vantage Guaranteed Income Fund N/A N/A N/A Kedari Investment Fund (KIF) N/A N/A N/A Vantage Equity Income Fund (VEIF) - June Year End N/A N/A N/A Vantage Dollar Fund (VDF) - June Year End N/A N/A N/A 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 1.53 1.55 1.32% Lotus Halal Fixed Income Fund 1,166.88 1,166.88 0.47% 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 11.79 11.90 0.09% Meristem Money Market Fund 10.00 10.00 10.15% NORRENBERGER INVESTMENT AND CAPITAL MANAGEMENT LIMITED enquiries@norrenberger.com Web: www.norrenberger.com, Tel: +234 (0) 908 781 2026 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Norrenberger Islamic Fund (NIF) N/A N/A N/A Norrenberger Money Market Fund (NMMF) N/A N/A N/A 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 1.57 1.59 13.31% PACAM Fixed Income Fund 11.20 11.17 12.84% PACAM Money Market Fund 10.00 10.00 7.67% PACAM Equity Fund 1.44 1.46 16.03% PACAM EuroBond Fund 114.22 116.49 1.57% 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 0.00 0.00 6.60% 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 1.08 1.08 10.03% 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 3,415.36 3,451.45 -0.82% Stanbic IBTC Bond Fund 236.04 236.04 0.13% Stanbic IBTC Ethical Fund 1.27 1.29 -1.54% Stanbic IBTC Guaranteed Investment Fund 314.03 314.03 0.22% Stanbic IBTC Iman Fund 238.48 242.05 -1.49% Stanbic IBTC Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 7.34% Stanbic IBTC Nigerian Equity Fund 10,938.55 11,092.70 -1.53% Stanbic IBTC Dollar Fund (USD) 1.29 1.29 0.17% Stanbic IBTC Shariah Fixed Income Fund 117.12 117.12 0.13% Stanbic IBTC Enhanced Short-Term Fixed Income Fund 106.82 106.82 UNITED CAPITAL ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD unitedcapitalplcgroup.com Web: www.unitedcapitalplcgroup.com; Tel: +234 01-6317876 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn United Capital Equity Fund 0.93 0.96 0.43% United Capital Balanced Fund 1.36 1.38 -0.43% United Capital Wealth for Women Fund 1.10 1.11 0.74% United Capital Sukuk Fund 1.08 1.08 0.31% United Capital Fixed Income Fund 1.96 1.96 0.26% United Capital Eurobond Fund 122.58 122.58 0.20% United Capital Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 8.86% 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 Balanced Strategy Fund N/A N/A N/A Zenith ESG Impact Fund N/A N/A N/A Zenith Income Fund N/A N/A N/A Zenith Money Market Fund N/A N/A N/A

REITS NAV Per Share

Yield / T-Rtn

124.98 54.65

10.62% 8.10%

Bid Price

Offer Price

Yield / T-Rtn

13.76 129.82 102.92 18.49 21.67

13.86 133.06 105.18 18.59 21.77

-1.46% -1.37% -0.68% 0.00% 0.00%

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

4.07 5.54 17.81 1.00 20.77 158.89

4.17 5.64 18.01 1.00 20.97 160.89

8.22% 8.70% 3.66% 8.22% 7.08% 0.70%

NAV Per Share

Yield / T-Rtn

107.28

10.80%

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.

35

TUESDAY, ͹΀˜ ͺ͸ͺͺ ˾ T H I S D AY

NEWS

ALL TINUBU'S MEN...

L-R: Member, House of Representatives, Hon. James Faleke; former Governor of Borno State, Senator Kashim Shettima; former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Mr. Babachir Lawal; former member of the Senate, Senator Abu Ibrahim; and Director-General, Bola Ahmed Tinubu Support Groups Management Council, Hon. Abdulmumini Jubrin, during the support groups’ conference Photo; Julius Atoi in Abuja…yesterday

2023: Tinubu Must Be Given Right of First Refusal, Says Shettima

Maintains age not an issue, presidency not bricklaying Insists presidency must return to South Ex-SGF, Lawal, advocates direct election for presidential primary Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja With 13 months to the 2023 presidential election, a former Governor of Borno State and serving senator, Kashim Shettima, yesterday, said the presidency should be zoned to the south.

Shettima said a former governor of Lagos State, Bola Tinubu, who recently declared his intention to contest for president in the next election, should be given right of first refusal at the APC primary because of his sacrifices for the party.

The lawmaker, who spoke at a Tinubu Support Group conference, organised by the Support Groups Management Council (SGMC) in Abuja, insisted that Tinubu’s age was not an issue, saying the presidency is not a bricklaying job.

Shettima stated, "In 2015, some aspirants with very huge war chest were itching to cling the ticket of the APC, like the rock of Gibraltar, Asiwaju and his progressive team stood solidly behind the candidacy of President Muhammadu Buhari.

“My simple question, distinguished ladies and gentlemen, where were the new members

of what I call 'The Buhari's Church of Later Days Saints?'

Where were they? We knew where their political loyalty laid in that particular convention when President Muhammadu emerged as the presidential candidate of the APC. Where were they?

"Some people say everything goes in politics, not everything goes in politics. We shall have minimal thresholds below which we won't operate and the irreducible minimum is that after eight years of presidency in the north, the logic, common sense, equity, justice and fairness demand that power should move to the southern part of the country and who is better qualified?

“Asiwaju Ahmed Bola Tinubu should be given the choice of first refusal. More than any other person, he has sacrificed more for this democracy, for the APC." Shettima added that Tinubu's credentials were not only appealing, but they were also a proof of the qualities the country needed to redeem its vast potential and possibilities.

He said the mudslinging that had trailed Tinubu’s presidential bid was a mere acknowledgment of his political track record and

inimitable influence on the political scene.

According to Shettima, "One of such is the mischievous fixation on his age and the wild conclusions that he’s physically unsuitable for the office of the president.

This obsession characterises the thinking of those who have no understanding of Asiwaju’s incredible work ethic.

"Those who seek to make us go low hope to present the presidency as a bricklaying exercise. But that’s the work of a machine created by an idea, and who else is to guide us towards manufacturing the best ideas to redeem this country?

"To derail us at this point is a futile ambition. The conversations we are prepared for aren’t pedestrian obsessions with the mundane, but comparisons of ideas and track records of service to the nation.”

The lawmaker said the future of the country rested on the choice

of a unifying leader; a leader, who pandered to neither ethnic nor religious agenda, and one who wasn’t bound by toxic regional solidarity and yet, known for a track record of outstanding leadership.

He said while Tinubu’s political contemporaries were trading their principles for a place at the table in Abuja during former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s era, and throwing their political allies under the bus, he took the risk to build a political alternative to the then ruling party and his choices of candidates underlined his political credentials.

Speaking at the event also, a former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Babchir Lawal, said the primary objective of the founders of APC was to build an enduring political party capable of sustaining responsive governance that could bring positive change in the country.

Lawal noted that the inability of

the party to even harmonise and synergise policy direction of the federal government with that of states it controlled, especially, in key critical areas around which the campaigns were ran, spoke volumes about its incompetence.

Lawal stated: "Compounding these problems in the last one year is the apparent hijacking of the party by a self-serving cabal who, driven by personal ambitions, have failed to organise even simple conflict-free ward, local government, and state congresses, not to talk of a national convention. As we speak, there are only a handful of states in the country that do not have parallel state executives.

"This is the current state of our party and it is in this environment that we gathered here, and must operate to deliver Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu as the party’s flag bearer at the 2023 presidential election. And this we will do it through consensus, indirect or

direct party primaries by the grace of God." "We are neither offended nor threatened by whichever method the party chooses to adapt for the emergence of its presidential candidate. But, of course, being democrats, we prefer a method that involves all the card carrying members of the party in this choosing process."

On his part, Director General, SGMC, Hon. Abdulmumin Jibrin, said the council had to work day and night to streamline the support groups to 2,500. Jibrin said while the campaign had not commenced, the preliminary preparatory activities were to continue to organise the support groups for easy management and to be able to achieve the objectives.

Jubrin urged the support groups to continue their aggressive political mobilisation and the recruitment of people at the state, local government, ward, and unit levels.

Gbajabiamila Seeks Increase in Minimum Qualifications for Presidential, N'Assembly Aspirants

Lukman Resigns as PGF DG Says Nigeria has not done enough to adjust its educational system over Convention Controversy Udora Orizu in Abuja

Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja The Director General of the Progressives Governors Forum (PGF), Dr. Salihu Lukman, has resigned his position.

His resignation is, however, said not to be unconnected with the outcome of the meeting of the All Progressives Congress (APC) governors held on Sunday in Abuja.

Investigations revealed that it was deliberated at the meeting on whether Lukman should be forced to resign or not.

Lukman had called on the Caretaker Extraordinary Convention Planning Committee (CECPC) chaired by the Governor of Yobe State, Mai Mala Buni and other members of the committee to resign if they were unable to

conduct the national convention of the party tentatively slated for February.

During the meeting, it was gathered that the governors were sharply divided on whether to force Lukman to resign or not THISDAY checks revealed that while the majority of the governors opposed the pressure to force Lukman’s resignation, few of the governors insisted that he must go.

Regrettably, the power play from the various interest groups and power blocks, had consumed Lukman, who was seen by many as the conscience of the party.

As of the time of filing this report, efforts to get Lukman to react to the issue were unsuccessful, but sources close to him confirmed the development.

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila yesterday said the current constitutional provision where the educational qualification for Nigeria's presidential and National Assembly aspirants was pegged at senior secondary school certificates should be increased.

Gbajabiamila who stated this while delivering a paper titled: 'Building Back Better: Creating a New Framework for Tertiary Education in Nigeria in the 21st Century,' at the 52nd Convocation of the University of Lagos, said increasing the qualifications would be another step in reforming the electoral system and providing strong leadership for the country.

He said despite the change around the globe, Nigeria was yet to adjust its education and skills acquisition system to meet the new realities.

While stressing that the foundation of Nigeria's educational system was still rooted in a different age, was designed to meet the social, economic and labour demands of a different societal and economic model, he opined that there was the strong need to come up with pragmatic ways of addressing the problems in Nigeria's education sector.

Gbajabiamila said, "I also sincerely believe that the National Assembly needs to look into section 131 (d) of the 1999 constitution with a view to increasing the minimum educational qualification for persons aspiring to be future Presidents of Nigeria and other top offices including the National Assembly as against the current minimum requirement of a Secondary School Certificate or its equivalent.

“As we have reduced the age for eligibility to contest those offices so also, we should increase the

minimum educational requirement.

It will be another step in reforming our electoral system and providing strong leadership for the country.

“When we consider the problems of education infrastructure, access to educational opportunities, quality of instruction, the welfare of teachers, lecturers and professors, we will do well to remember that all of these factors matter only to the extent that they are necessary to build institutions that produce citizens who can advance the cause of Nigeria.

"Our world has changed. The old certainties from which we derived assurance and built our expectations no longer exist. The value of the extractive industries that have powered our economy has deteriorated. It continues to do so rapidly, as technological advances lead us toward a future where coal, crude and gas are replaced by renewable alternatives of solar, wind and water.”

He added: “For Nigerian citizens to thrive in this new world, participate fully and productively in the new global economy and benefit from rather than be consumed by the technological advancements that are changing our world, tertiary education in Nigeria must be prepared to embrace reinvention and adapt to disruption.

"In a digital age, where socioeconomic participation is based on intellectual ability and access to information, a purposeful and well-rounded education is a fundamental human right because the individual’s ability to participate fully in society depends almost entirely on the quality of education available to them. Unfortunately, it is still the case that the foundations of our educational system are rooted in a different age and designed to meet the social, economic and labour demands of a different societal and economic model.

TUESDAY JANUARY 18, 2022 ˾ T H I S D AY

36

NEWSXTRA

Gunmen Kidnap Another Traditional Ruler in Plateau Seriki Adinoyi in Jos Gunmen have kidnapped the Da Gwom Rwei of Vwang district of Jos South Local Government Area, of Plateau state, Gyang Balak.

He was kidnapped on Sunday night as he was returning home to Vom, a few metres from the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru in Jos. The gunmen reportedly waylaid him and took him with them to an unknown destination.

Spokesman for the state Police Command Mr. Gabriel Ubah confirmed the incident, adding that the Police are on the trail of the assailants.

Lawmaker representing Jos South in the state House of Assembly, Fom Gwattson also confirmed the Monarch’s abduction.

Condemning the abduction, he said, “I have just been informed of the kidnap of one of our traditional rulers, Da Gwom Rwei of Vwang District, Jos South LGA, Da Gyang Balak. I was told, he was returning to his palace when the gunmen stopped his vehicle and forcefully took him away to an unknown place”.

Gwaattson said the

abduction was the second in the community in recent days. “We have a problem at hand in Plateau state regarding kidnapping and abduction of the citizens. The area where they kidnapped the traditional

ruler in Vwang District is the same place where another resident was kidnapped about two weeks ago and a ransom of N1m was paid to the kidnappers before they released the young man.

“As lawmakers elected by the people to represent them at the 9th Plateau Assembly, we have done what we are supposed to do to address the problem by passing the anti-kidnapping bill into law

which was subsequently signed by Governor Simon Lalong. But who has been tried in plateau state using that law?

“It’s just there lying in waste while the people continue to

cry over their plight in the hands of abductors. I believe that the government which has the duty to arrest and prosecute those responsible for kidnapping but fails to do it knows what it is doing.

TOWARDS SAFER CORRECTIONAL CENTRES…

Minister of Interior, Alhaji Rauf Aregbesola(right) addressing the officers at Nigerian Correctional Service, Agodi Custodian Centre Ibadan, during his working visit to the Centre in Oyo State…recently

Police Rescue 16 Abductees Dismissed Soldier, Others Bag Death Sentence, in Kaduna Life Imprisonment in Ekiti John Shiklam in Kaduna

The Kaduna State Police command said it has rescued 16 persons kidnapped along the Birnin Gwari road.

Spokesman of the command, Muhammad Jalige, disclosed this in a statement yesterday in Kaduna.

He said the victims were rescued following information provided to the police who acted promptly.

Jalige said: “On the 16th January, 2022, the Kaduna Police Command through Divisional

Police Officer (DPO) Buruku received information that some persons were sighted around Masallaci area along Birnin Gwari road who were suspected to be victims of kidnapping.”

Jalige said on the strength of the report, the DPO immediately mobilised personnel on rescue mission to the area.

He said on sighting the troops the hoodlums took to their heels leaving behind 16 victims whom the operatives successfully rescued, noting that they are from Lagos, Kano, Zamfara and Niger states.

African Lawyers Tasks Leaders on Fight against Corruption Sunday Okobi The African Bar Association (AFBA) has stated that this year’s annual conference will serve as avenue for policy makers, captains of industry, judicial officers, business men and women, politicians, administrators in Africa among others to chart a way forward to some of the challenges confronting the continent. However, the body has admonished African leaders to be more serious in the fight against corruption and bad governance, adding that the easy access government officials have to public fund is unacceptable and baneful to the Africa’s wheel of progress.

Speaking ahead of AFBA’s 2022 Annual Conference proposed to hold August 7 to 11 in Bingu International Convention Centre, Lilongwe, Republic of Malawi, at a press conference in Lagos. President of AFBA, Hannibal Egbe Uwaifo, said the upcoming conference with the theme: ‘Instituting an Enduring Legacy of Transparent and Accountable Governance in Africa: Basic Issues and Roadmap’, “will create avenue for policy makers, captains of industry, judicial officers, business men and women, politicians, administrators among others the opportunity to chart a way forward in solving some of the challenges Africa is facing as a continent.”

Adeboye Becomes Chairman as Ronchess Restructures Board

Ronchess Global Resources Plc has announced a new board following a restructuring exercise. In a notification to the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX), Ronchess said its Board of Directors is now led by Adeolu Adeboye, who is a graduate of Software Engineering from the University of Hertfordshire United Kingdom. He practised in this field for 10 years in the United Kingdom before moving back to Nigeria.

He is a seasoned entrepreneur

who has created many businesses.

His areas of expertise include Insurance, Retail, Power, and Construction. Mr Adeboye is an entrepreneur with experience in running diverse business interests successfully.

The board is co-chaired by the eminently qualified Niyi Ogunnowo, a flight captain, with over two decades of experience spanning information technology and the transportation industry across Nigeria and the United States of America.

Victor Ogunje in Ado Ekiti An Ekiti State High Court in Ado Ekiti, has sentenced a dismissed Soldier, Olasoji Damilola and one Koiki Tunde Benson to death by hanging for armed robbery.

The court also slammed life imprisonment on one Ogbesetuyi Tunde for offence of conspiracy and attempted robbery.

In his judgment on Monday,

Justice Lekan Ogunmoye, said: “The prosecution has proved beyond reasonable doubt the elements of offences of conspiracy, attempted robbery and armed robbery against the defendants.

“In count two (armed robbery) the first and second defendants, Olasoji Damilola and Koiki Tunde Benson are sentenced to death by hanging.

May God almighty have mercy upon your souls.

“In other counts , the three defendants are sentenced to life imprisonment”.

According to the charge, the three defendants on 10th March, 2016 conspired and attempted to rob a Filling Station along Ikere Road, Ado Ekiti.

Also on 15th May, 2016, Olasoji Damilola, a soldier , who was Court Marshialled and dismissed during the pendency of the case alongside Koiki Tunde Benson conspired and

robbed one Oluwadare Adebayo at a Filling Station in Odo-Ado, Ado Ekiti and carted away a sum of N1,204,750.

The suspects were said to have been armed wiith guns and other offensive weapons during the robbery.

The offences run contrary to Sections 6(b) and 1 (2) (a) of the Robbery and Firearms (Special Provisions) Act, Cap. RII, Vol.14, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2004.

Osun APC Condemns Factional Chairman’s Outburst Yinka Kolawole in Osogbo The Alhaji Rasaki Salinsile-led All Progressives Congress(APC) in Osun State has taken a swipe at the Ilerioluwa factional chairman, Prince Gboyega Famodun, over his outburst on the Minister of Interior, Mr. Rauf Aregbesola.

In a press statement signed by the Publicity Secretary of the APC, Abiodun Agboola,

the party described Famodun as a failed party administrator and harbinger of misfortune the party, saying that his incompetence, gluttonous attitude and hypocrisy brought the Osun APC to where it is today.

Sequel to the self-confession of the Minister of Interior, Aregbesola, of being the brain behind the copious anti-party

activities of a pressure group, The Osun Progressives (TOP) under the Osun State chapter of the All Progressives Congress(APC) at an event in Ilesa, Osun State recently , the state Chairman-elect of the party, Famodun, has berated the minister, saying that his conduct in that regard is far below the expectation of the right-thinking members of the

society.

However, Agboola said the party took exception to ‘crude and gutter languages Famodun employed in his needless response’ to the Minister’s views on the state of affairs of the party.

“This type of attitude makes reconciliation almost impossible with such character,” said Abiodun.

Gunmen Invade Anambra Community, Chase Away Mourners David-Chyddy Eleke in Awka Unidentified gunmen on Saturday evening invaded a burial ceremony in Ezinifite, Nnewi South Local Government Area, causing panic, while mourners and other invited guests fled.

An invited guest, who was at the burial said the event ended abruptly, after the men invaded the area, causing attendees and

the mourners too flee into bushes for safety.

The source, who spoke to THISDAY exclusively, said the gunmen stormed the burial ceremony when they gathered that the chief mourner, a very influential man in the area, who was holding a burial for his younger sister, decided to bring in police men and operatives of the DSS to provide security while the burial lasted.

It was gathered that some elements in the area had started openly that they will not tolerate security officials in their area.

“When information got to them (gunmen) that someone brought security men to the town, they mobilized themselves in seven Sienna vehicles and started shooting anyhow.

“The man who was burying his sister and the security agents escaped. The men stayed there

and shot for a very long time, and all the people who came for the burial ran for their lives, some entered into the bush and others ran into a nearby compound.

“They smashed all the cars in the compound and took some away after they have set the house ablaze, but thank God, the house did not totally burn, as people came and put off the fire when they had left.

2023 Presidency: Politicians Told to Forget About Zoning Segun Awofadeji in Bauchi As agitations for rotation of the country’s presidency among political the zones heightens, the agitators have been advised to have a rethink because zoning of the presidency is said to be against democratic tenets and therefore unprogressive.

The declaration was made by the National Chairman

of the Council of Ulama of Jama’atu Izalatul Bidia WA iqamatussunnah (JIBWIS), Sheikh Muhammadu Sani Yahaya Jingir in his message at the end of the International preaching session of JIBWIS held in Bauchi.

He therefore, advised that the 2023 presidential contest should be left open to every region of the country for the best candidate to emerge in order to

give Nigerians the opportunity to elect the best choice among the candidates.

The Islamic scholar stressed that, “The fundamental rights of all political parties to field candidates of their choices, and the right of voters to freely exercise choices over who leads them cannot be compromised.

Our people should be allowed to exercise their rights according

to the laws of the country and the electoral laws anything otherwise is undemocratic and unacceptable in a democratic dispensation.”

The cleric known for his stand on national issues advised Muslims to get their voters card to be able to vote for the best Leader in 2023 general elections saying that the process must be gotten right.

37

TUESDAY, ͹΀˜ ͺ͸ͺͺ ˾ T H I S D AY

TUESDAYSPORTS

Group Sports Editor: Duro Ikhazuagbe Email: duro.ikhazuagbe@thisdaylive.com

0811 181 3083 SMS ONLY

Lewandowski Retains Best FIFA Men’s Award Senegal and Chelsea’s Mendy wins Best Goalkeeper Award Bayern Munich and Poland striker, Robert Lewandowski, was named 2021 Best FIFA Men's Player of the Year, while Manchester United's Cristiano Ronaldo landed the special award.

Senegal and Chelsea safe hands, Edouard Mendy won the award for the Best FIFA Men's goalkeeper after a successful first season with the club, including a clean sheet in the 1-0 win over Manchester City in the Champions League final.

Lewandowski, 33, claimed the top prize for the second consecutive year after scoring 69 goals.

He beat Paris St-Germain's Lionel Messi and Liverpool's Mohamed Salah to the award.

Ronaldo was recognised for becoming the all-time

top international goalscorer.

Barcelona’s Alexia Putellas won the Best FIFA Women’s Player of the Year.

Lewandowski broke the late Gerd Muller's 49-year record for scoring the most Bundesliga goals in a calendar year with 43 in 34 league appearances.

Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel won the award for the Best FIFA men's coach for guiding Chelsea to their second Champions League title after only joining the club in January.

Former Tottenham winger Erik Lamela - sold to Sevilla in the summer - won the FIFA Puskas award, which recognises the best goal in world football during the year, after his ‘Rabona’ finish in the north London derby against Arsenal last March.

TITBITS (MATCH DAY 10) *Super Eagles Aim to Repeat 2006 Edition With top of the Group D and second round qualification guaranteed , Super Eagles, led by Augustine Eguavoen will aim to complete the rout of all the teams in Garoua and banish the ghost of not been able to win all three matches at the group stage as it was in the previous AFCON participation. Until 2006, Eagles, even if they top their group, it was always at the expense of dropping points. But at Egypt 2006 in Port Said, Nigeria won the three group matches against Ghana 1-0, Zimbabwe 2-0 and Senegal 2-1. Interestingly, it was Eguavoen that led the team to the tournament where Super Eagles won Bronze!

*Vincent Aboubakar Targets Top Award Hosts Cameroon is one of the few teams that have exhibited the strong will to be counted among likely winner of the 2021 tournament. Thanks to their inspirational captain, Vincent Aboubakar who cannot stop scoring and was on the scorers’ sheet again last night in the final Group A match against Cape Verde. With five goals in the kitty, Aboubakar could end up as the tournament’s Highest Goal Scorer and a strong contender for the CAF African Footballer of the Year.

*Setback for Egyptian El-Wensh Ahead of the must-win match against Sudan tomorrow, seven-time winners, Egypt will be without their inspirational defender, El-Wensh. The player had suffered an anterior muscle strain.

The 26-year-old defender could not return to the pitch for the second half of the game with Guinea Bissau — which Egypt

won 1-0 — on Saturday due to the injury.

“Medical scans have shown that El-Wensh suffers from an anterior muscle strain. He will be missing the game against Sudan in the final match of the AFCON’s group stage,” read a statement issued by the EFA yesterday.

*Double Blow to Ivorian Goalkeeper This is not the best moment for Ivorian goalkeeper, Badra Ali Sangare who is said to have learned of the death of his father yesterday, only a few hours after making headlines for a disastrous gaffe in his team’s move in the match against Sierra Leone.

"It is with great sadness that the Ivorian national team learned of the death in the night of 16-17 January of the father of goalkeeper Badra Ali Sangare," said the Ivorian Football Federation in a statement.

The news comes after teammate Max-Alain Gradel lost his father on the eve of the tournament.

Gradel appeared to be in tears after scoring in the Ivory Coast's opening 1-0 win against Equatorial Guinea.

*Ghana’s Date with History as they Play Comoros Today This will be the first encounter between Ghana and the Comoros at the AFCON tournament as they clash in the final group match tonight. Ghana Black Star have only won one of their last eight Africa Cup of Nations games (D4 L3), failing to score in half of those matches. On the other hand, Comoros could become the fifth team to fail to score a single group stage goal in their debut Africa Cup of Nations tournament, after Burundi (2019), Gabon (1994), Sierra Leone (1994) and Mozambique (1986).

-Compiled by Femi Solaja

Poland and Bayern Munich forward, Robert Lewandowski, retained his men’s title at the Best FIFA Award....last night

Eguavoen Vows Eagles Will Not Lower Guards against Guinea Bissau Olawale Ajimotokan

Ahead of tomorrow night’s final Africa Cup of Nations Group D clash between leaders Nigeria and Guinea Bissau, Interim Head Coach, Augustine Eguavoen, has insisted that already-qualified Super Eagles have no reason to look down on their opponents or approach the game in a carefree manner.

Nigeria will play Wild Dogs of Guinea Bissau at 8pm on Wednesday night at the Stade Roumdé Adjia in Garoua, Cameroon.

“It is important for us to sustain the winning mentality while we keep our heads on our shoulders. Just as I told the boys after the match against Egypt, we are yet to win anything here except points. Guinea Bissau need the three points because they have only one so far and we must be prepared for a massive fight,” began the coach fondly called Cerezo in his playing days with the Eagles.

Eguavoen warned further: “If we let down our guard, we could be punished, and that would not be good for the team’s psychology. We will go for the three points,” he promised Nigerian football followers.

Guinea Bissau drew 0-0 with Sudan in their first match, losing a penalty awarded to them late in the game, and then fell to a Mohamed Salah goal in a match they gave their all and

A F R I CA C U P O F N AT I O N S even felt they should have been awarded an equaliser that was cancelled late in the encounter.

“With a little more luck, they could have beaten Sudan and could have drawn with Egypt.

That is the kind of opposition

we face on Wednesday. Nobody will tell me they’re pushovers,” added Eguavoen.

Eguavoen, 56, is the only man to have coached Nigeria to win all three matches in the group phase of the AFCON since the

Super Eagles Interim Head Coach, Augustine Eguavoen (right) and Bayern Munich and Ghana legend, Sammy Osei Kuffour who visited the team’s camp...yesterday

...Hosts Cameroon Roar into Last 16 Hosts Cameroon cemented top spot in Group A at the Africa Cup of Nations following a 1-1 draw with Cape Verde on Monday evening.

The Indomitable Lions took the lead when captain Vincent Aboubakar drilled home his fifth goal of the tournament after 39 minutes.

Cape Verde equalised eight

minutes after the break as halftime substitute Garry Rodrigues stylishly flicked home.

Aboubakar should have won it midway through the second half only to blaze over the bar with the goal gaping.

Unbeaten in their capital since 1988, the result means Cameroon will remain in stronghold Yaounde for their

last-16 tie against a third-placed side from Group C, D or E on Monday, 24 January.

Cape Verde finished third in the group on four points, behind Burkina Faso in the table on head-to-head record, and the Blue Sharks face a wait to see if they will progress as one of four best third-placed sides.

country started participating at this level since 1963.

He was head coach when the Eagles defeated Ghana 1-0, Zimbabwe 2-0 and Senegal 2-1 at the Al Masry Stadium, Port Said to sweep the stakes at the 2006 finals.

In 14 previous matches across three stints, the 1994 AFCON winner and two-time FIFA World Cup defender has left the field victorious in 12 matches, losing only two – the 0-1 defeat to Cote d’Ivoire in the semi final of the 2006 finals and a 2012 AFCON qualifier in Guinea that was embroiled in circumstances of uncertainty, which the team lost by the odd goal.

As he surveyed his boys at training on Sunday morningand thereafter fielded questions from the media, the former defender smiled easily at a suggestion that his team could end up playing hosts Cameroon in the final match, as he also was involved as a player in the 1988 final against the Cameroonians in Morocco that Nigeria lost by a lone goal, and the bronze medal match of the 1992 edition that the Super Eagles won 2-1.

“That is still a long way off.

We are focused on the match against Guinea Bissau. One game at a time,” Eguavoen restated of his philosophy at the tournament.

RESULTS B’Faso 1-1 Ethiopia C’Verde 1-1 Cameroon

(Tues Jan 18) Malawi v Senegal (5pm) Zimbabwe v Guinea (5pm) Gabon v Morocco (8pm) Ghana v Comoros (8pm)

(Wed Jan 19) Egypt v Sudan (8pm) G’Bissau v Nigeria (8pm)

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SPORTS

Aubameyang Released, to Go for Further Medicals on His Heart

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has been released from Gabon's Africa Cup of Nations squad and will return to Arsenal because of the striker's ongoing health issues. Gabon on four points are

playing Morocco this evening to consolidate their passage to the Last 16.

The 32-year-old missed Gabon's draw with Ghana on Friday after scans revealed

AFRICA CUP OF NATIONS “heart lesions”following a bout of COVID. Aubameyang tested positive

on arrival in Cameroon on 6 January.

He will undergo further

medical checks upon his return to Arsenal.

Nice midfielder Mario Lemina has also been released from the Gabon squad after "heart lesions" were also found on the ex-Southampton player's scan.

Gabon's statement said: "The Gabonese Football Federation has decided to put the players

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Mario Lemina at the disposal of their clubs to continue the in-depth examinations."

Aubameyang, who also tested positive for COVID in August, has not played for Arsenal since he was dropped and stripped of the club captaincy last month for disciplinary reasons.

ALL THE GROUPS GROUP A Team.

Cameroon B’Faso.

Cape Verde Ethiopia

P. 3.

3.

3.

3.

W 2.

1.

1.

0.

Team.

Guinea Senegal Malawi Zimbabwe

P. 2.

2.

2.

2.

W 1 1.

1.

0.

D 1.

1.

1.

1.

L 0.

1.

1.

2.

GF 7.

3.

2.

2.

GA 3.

3.

2.

6.

GD 4.

0.

0 -4.

PTS 7 4 4 1

GA 0.

0 2.

3.

GD 1.

1 0.

-2.

PTS 4 4 3 0

GA 0.

1.

2.

3.

GD 3.

1.

-1.

-3.

PTS 6 4 1 0

GA 1.

1.

1.

3.

GD 3.

0 -1.

-2.

PTS 6.

3 1.

1.

GA 2.

1.

2.

1.

GD 1.

0.

0 -1.

PTS 4 3 2 1

GA 1.

1.

1.

5.

GD 1.

1.

3.

-5.

PTS 4 4 3 0.

GROUP B D 1.

1.

0 0

L 0.

0 1 2.

GF 1.

1.

2.

1.

GROUP C Super Eagles Interim Head Coach, Augustine Eguavoen (right) and Bayern Munich and Ghana legend, Sammy Osei Kuffour who visited the team’s camp...yesterday

Team.

Morocco .

Gabon Ghana Comoros

P. 2.

2.

2.

2.

W 2.

1.

0.

0.

Team.

Nigeria Egypt G’Bissau Sudan

P. 2.

2.

2.

2.

W 2.

1.

0.

0.

D 0.

1.

1.

0

L 0 0.

1.

2.

GF 3.

2.

1.

0

GROUP D D 0.

0.

1.

1.

L 0.

1.

1.

1.

GF 4.

1.

0 1.

GROUP E Team.

Ivory Coast.

E’Guinea S’Leone Algeria

P. 2.

2.

2.

2.

W 1.

1.

0.

0.

Team.

Gambia Mali Tunisia Mauritania.

P. 2.

2.

2.

2.

W 1.

1.

1.

0.

D 1.

0.

2.

1.

L 0.

1.

0 1.

GF 3.

1.

2.

0

GROUP F

Indomitable Lions of Cameroon Captain, Vincent Aboubakar (right) scored for the hosts before Cape Verde rallied back for the equaliser. Aboubakar now leads the scorers’ chart on five goals. PHOTO: BBC

Algeria Are in 'Difficult Situation’, Says Belmadi Algeria Coach Djamel Belmadi admits his side are in a "really tough" situation after taking just one point from their first two matches at the Africa Cup of Nations.

The defending champions are bottom of Group E following their 1-0 defeat by Equatorial Guinea on Sunday.

The north Africans must win their final game against Cote d Ivoire to have a chance of reaching the last 16.

"We are in a difficult situation, a big difficult situation that we

have not experienced for a long time," Belmadi said.

"I'll tell you that we are in a tough period, a really tough one."

The Desert Foxes had two goals ruled out for offside against Equatorial Guinea and could not find a way past goalkeeper Jesus Owonu, who made two saves from Youcef Belaili.

The defeat against a side ranked 114th in the world also ended Algeria's 35-match unbeaten run stretching back to October 2018.

"The ball did not want to get

in," Belmadi, 45, added.

"We created situations, I would say almost by the dozens if I'm not mistaken, none of the chances wanted to go in."

Meanwhile, Algeria right-back Youcef Atal described the squad as a "family", which he said would pull together after defeat in a bid to reach the knock-out stages in Cameroon.

But their task will not be easy, with Ivory Coast top of the group on four points, Equatorial Guinea on three and Sierra Leone on two points - and all four

sides still battling to qualify.

"We did everything, we gave everything," said Atal.

"Sometimes you have difficult times like these. We have been working together for a while, we've been winning, playing good games.

The 25-year-old added: "We are like a family and now we are going through a difficult time, we are conscious of that.

"We will continue to work and we will give everything in the next game and (hopefully) we will qualify."

NGF President Extols Virtues of Late Golfer Jacobson The President of the Nigeria Golf Federation (NGF) and Director General of the National Council for Arts and Culture, Otunba Olusegun Runsewe, has condoled with the family of Late Kolawole Jacobson, a renowned golf icon in Nigeria.

In a condolence message to the family, Runsewe described Late Jacobson as an accomplished

Nigeria, a talented golfer and lover of children who was passionately concerned about the grooming of young Nigerians in the game of golf.

Runsewe noted that Late Jacobson made very remarkable contribution to the development of golf in Nigeria, a game he loved with passion.

“He was an outstanding

Nigeria known for his honesty, integrity and committed hard work” the NGF president noted, lamenting that he will be missed for the several good things he stood for.

Consoling the family, Runsewe said that in this moment of grief, the consolation should be that he slept in the Lord as a man of good conscience and therefore

shall be received in heaven by God Almighty.

Responding on behalf of the family during visit, the wife of the deceased, Mrs. Shola Jacobson expressed appreciation for the visit. She thanked Otunba Olusegun Runsewe for sympathizing with the family and for honoring her husband even in death.

D 1.

1.

0.

0

L 0.

0 1.

2.

GF 2.

2.

4.

0

Shaibu, Sanwo-Olu to Race in Access Bank Lagos City Marathon The sports-loving DeputyGovernor of Edo State, Comrade Philip Shaibu, will add to his huge sports resume on February 12, 2022.

He will be joining the Governor of Lagos State and host of the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, to participate in the 2022 edition.

Speaking while signing the entry form over the weekend Shaibu said he has been a distance admirer of the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon.

“I congratulate the good people of Lagos State, especially the Executive Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for putting together the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon, the biggest one-day sports event in Africa and one of the top ten marathons in the world in terms of prize money and participants.

“Having participated in the highly competitive Okpekpe 10km Road Race on a tough terrain because it is hilly, it will be a great joy to experience the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon alongside my brother Governor Sanwo-Olu. It will be fun to run in Lagos because the course is flat”.

An avid golfer, Shaibu is also a passionate footballer. He etched his name in sports history when he led the Team Edo football team to win the male football gold medal at the 20th National Sports Festival (NSF) in Benin.

In the match, Edo bounced back from a two-goal deficit to defeat the Lagos team 3-2 in the final at the main bowl of the University of Benin Stadium Complex.

Apart from organizing the best NSF ever despite the challenge of Covid-19, Shaibu the man in charge of sports in Edo State is leaving a legacy of giving Edo State world-class sports facilities and equipment including building the best gymnasium in Africa.

General Manager, Access Bank Lagos City Marathon, Yussuf Alli, urged politicians and celebrities to emulate Shaibu, “being active in sports cures many illnesses ss and diseases. Our leaders and celebrities that the masses emulate should join Shaibu by embracing sports culture. This will translate mass participation in sports leading to a healthier workforce and less spending on healthcare by the government”.

TUESDAY JANUARY 18, 2022 • T H I S D AY

39

Tuesday, January 18, 2022

TR

UT H

& RE A S O

N

Price: N250

MISSILE

Gani Adams to FG

“They have to pick one. If you do not want the country to break up, you have to restructure this country into different regions. The agreement that brought us together as a country in 1960 is true federalism, that every region would develop at their own pace”---Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, Iba Gani Adams, reechoing the clamour for the country’s restructuring to avoid break-up.

TUESDAY WITH REUBENABATI abati1990@gmail.com

Three Books And Other Stories W

e have had a dizzying last 10 days at home and abroad: Novak Djokovic, with his COVID time-line of humiliation, from Melbourne to Dubai, and probably back to his home land of Serbia, where a disgraceful hero’s welcome awaits him for his abominable conduct which may have far-reaching implications for his legacy and career, the Party Gate Scandal at No 10 Downing Street, where PM Boris Johnson and his team have been downing booze during COVID restrictions (May – December 2021) and pretending to be holier than thou on top of it. BoJo needs to be reminded that he is not above the law. The UK needs to remind its leader that if the Chairman of Credit Suisse can be forced to resign for failing the test of personal responsibility and accountability, and Her Majesty’s favourite son can lose his pampered kid privileges because of bad association and conduct, then journalist turned Prime Minister Boris Johnson also needs to be reminded that the laws of England do not allow him to disobey the people’s laws and his own government’s guidelines, and get away with impunity. The Labour Party is 10 points ahead in the polls, and Boris Johnson is about to lead the Conservatives to perdition. His hurriedly concocted “Operation Red Meat” and populist sops may not save him and his government. China has recorded a GDP growth of 8.1%, above the target of about 6%, but retail sales is down to 1.7 %, the property sector which accounts for 25% of GDP is in trouble, the country’s zero COVID policy has impacted on productivity and efficiency, the People’s Bank of China’s reduction of interest rates has raised questions about how far China is willing to go to make key loans cheaper for businesses even as that amounts to a loosening of President Xi Jinping’s “common prosperity policies”. Nonetheless, the President of China is beating a different tune on interest rates, and the path to economic recovery. The Chinese should keep their troubles to themselves!

Back home: There is the on-going African Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Cameroon. The Super Eagles seem to be doing well. But there have been killings in the North East of Nigeria and yet the Governor of Yobe State and Caretaker Chairman of the ruling All Progressives Congress party (APC), Mai Mala Buni says there is so much peace in Nigeria, that the people can now sleep with two eyes closed, because President Muhammadu Buhari has tackled the insecurity problem in the country effectively. Pure sycophantic tosh. That is what that is – in a country where the people have been blinded by killings and sundry forms of terrorism in all directions. And on top of all that, in the week that just ended, more Nigerians showed interest in the 2003 Presidential race: Asiwaju Ahmed Bola Ahmed Tinubu, former Governor of Lagos State and chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) increased the volume with his visit to President Muhammadu Buhari to declare his interest in the Presidency of Nigeria and seek the President’s support. Questions: Is the Tinubu dream realizable? And what next for Vice President Yemi Osinbajo just in case he is also interested? Can he stand up to his former boss and mentor? In a copy-cat move, the Governor of Ebonyi State also rushed to the Presidential Villa to announce that he is also interested in the Nigerian Presidency.

He also met with the President and addressed the State House Press Corps. Can someone in charge please stop this charade of going to the President to announce Presidential interest? Nigeria does not run a branch of any political party secretariat at the Presidential Villa. I honestly hope that one of these days we would not wake up to see some elements pasting their campaign posters in front of the President’s office and other parts of the Presidential Villa! These are definitely issues of interest, but sometimes the big issues can be boring and so repetitive, “the God of small things” speaks truth to power, and that is why I have chosen today to talk about books and something else, and here goes.

In the early 90s, I was privileged to have been

Osinbajo

actively involved in the Non-Governmental (NGO) community in Nigeria, working either as a consultant or resource person on a number of diverse issues including, development funding by international aid agencies, HIV/AIDS and health reporting, public health communication, women empowerment advocacy, women’s reproductive health and decision making, youth mentoring, population management, the environment, and adolescent reproductive health and sexuality. International donor agencies were particularly interested in the latter, that is adolescent reproductive health and sexuality in the context of the spread of global poverty, population explosion, harmful cultural practices and prejudices, gender imbalance and the rapid surge in cases of HIV/AIDS, and the findings by researchers and observers alike that both the girlchild and female adolescents were among the most vulnerable categories of the world’s population. I recall in particular in those days, sessions at the Action Health Incorporated (AHI), a Lagos-based NGO established

by Mrs. Nike Essiet and her husband, Dr. Uwem Essiet, with a special focus on adolescents. The Essiets conducted research and surveys, and ran advocacy and peer review clinics for adolescent girls on such topics as abstinence, reproductive health, family life, sexuality, condom negotiating skills, and the dangers of early pregnancy and marriage. The tone of the methodology was preventive: how do we prevent many young girls, burdened by all kinds of factors, from becoming victims of those same factors and how they can be empowered to negotiate and make informed choices, and live a meaningful life. One of the early gains of that period was the development of a National Sexuality Education Curriculum within the school system, and the generation of useful literature on the subject to promote awareness.

The problem as identified was that adolescent sexuality was unusually high among Nigerian adolescents. Many young girls in secondary schools were already sexually active by the age of 16, many of them with multiple sex partners. The result was a high rate of abortion, often carried out by quacks and in secrecy, because of the illegality of abortion in Nigeria and the stigma of teenage pregnancy. Many young girls had their future aborted, their potentials destroyed, and the net of poverty and social deprivation was expanded. The boys and men who put the girls in the family way were usually not affected; nor did they take responsibility. The girls were either forced to marry early or they dropped out of school.

Close to 60% of abortion related cases in Nigerian hospitals involved adolescents. Many were also not protected by culture. In parts of the country, male adults married teenage girls and justified this on the grounds of religion and culture. Many of such girls were denied the opportunity of going to school, and because their bodies were not fully developed for pregnancy and motherhood, the hospitals were filled with young girls afflicted with Vesico- Vaginal Fistula.

Maternal mortality and morbidity among pregnant teenage girls was high. The girls needed to be saved.

It is unfortunate however, that as I reflect on some of the early work done in the 90s, in which I was both observer and participant, the condition of the Nigerian adolescent appears worse today than it was two decades ago. The education sector is troubled, as young girls are now special targets of kidnappers, bandits, terrorists and criminals who turn them into sex slaves or brides against their wish, to their detriment.

Nigeria has in place the Child Rights Act, signed into law in 2003 but many states, 12 of them have to date refused to give assent to the law. Child marriages remain rampant. Poverty has turned many young girls into prostitutes and victims in the hands of sexual predator. Rape is prevalent. Economic deprivation has destroyed family life. Parents are distracted. Teachers no longer pay enough attention to their roles in loco parentis. The gains of the past have been eroded.

The present is worse than the past. Nonetheless, in a country that has one of the youngest populations in the world, a critical segment such as the youth population cannot be allowed to lose its potential to reckless sex and depravity, in an age of sexual permissiveness.

It is with these preliminary thoughts and reflections that I introduce three books that I have just read and now available for public appreciation and appraisal by Temilolu Oluwakemi Okeowo, namely Becoming An Alpha Female – A Guide Book for the Young Female, (2021, 96 pp.), Wisdom for Girls (2021, 84pp) and Letters To My daughters (2021, 82 pp.). Temilolu Okeowo is an Apostle, a Christian Evangelist of the Word, founder and Head Girl of The Girls Club of Nigeria, The Girls Apostolic Ministry of All Nations and the The Girls Club of Africa US. Inc. Since her days as an undergraduate student of Law, Ms Okeowo has been involved in advocacy for the girl child: how can she be saved in a depraved society, where a young girl is a natural victim of the combined forces of poverty, sexual predation and misogyny. Whereas the NGO work that I referred to earlier conducted research and community based counseling, Temilolu Okeowo adopts the strategy of counseling and mentoring, and her platforms are the church pulpit, newspaper writings, the social media, books and direct action.

She relies heavily on the Bible, and in all three books, the moral and Biblical dimensions of her arguments are unmistakable. Okeowo does not talk science. Her mission is to prevent young girls from going to Hell and losing their souls, because of what she calls “five minutes of enjoyment.”

She leaves the reader in no doubt that she believes pre-marital sex is more than a sin, that sexual intercourse is a spiritual encounter and chastity until marriage is the best and only option for any young lady who wants to become an Alpha Female. In the book, Becoming an Alpha Female, Temilolu Okeowo articulates the main themes of her concern. In a rather feminist tone, she argues that an average woman is imbued with divine privileges and gifts that men cannot “boast of” – women are designed by God to nurture the universe and sustain it, but many women have lost their purpose in life and ruined their own potentials because of sexual intercourse with men who deposit ill-luck and evil in their destiny. In 20 Chapters, the author offers detailed counsel about what a young girl must do to achieve her full potentials in line with God’s principles. She says for example: “Girls, You are Institutions, not Barbie Dolls”, “Don’t let the World Damage You”, “Don’t End up (as) Slay Morons”, “Must You Have a Boyfriend Even at 18?”,

“Pre-Marital Sex Gives the Devil an Upper Hand…”, “Don’t Let the Social Media Redirect Your Life” , “A Prayer Warrior Has the World At Her Feet”…

“Stop Idolising Your Pastors”. My favourite Chapter if you may imagine is Chapter 20 on the dangers of idolizing pastors. Okeowo is forthright in declaring that some pastors are at best “evil men hiding under the cloak of man of God”, and that they are human and not flawless men who could destroy the souls of innocent young girls.

Okeowo preaches faith in God, proper alignment with God. This much is well stated in the two other books: “Wisdom for Girls” and “Letters to my Daughters”. Here, the author is the “Agony Aunt” as she provides a compilation of columns she had written in The Nation and Punch newspapers and on her Facebook page. The chapters in both books are in the form of requests for advice as well as comments, sent to the columnist/author by the public, mostly young girls, and their mothers. Accordingly, every response is directed to “my darling, precious, glorious, dignified, world-famous and heavenly-celebrated daughters”. Her tone is affirmative and optimistic.

She seems convinced that every girl can be saved if only the female adolescent would avoid sex, or covenant with the Devil through pre-marital sex, and live a chaste life like Esther and Joseph in the Bible.

She recommends the spiritual life, and the need to avoid a certain distraction called “boyfriend” which can only result in sexual exploitation, slavery, misery and bondage. There are practical tips about how to go through university and graduate as a virgin! In Wisdom for Girls, the author specifically tells girls to beware of men and to learn how to deal with them, and that it is possible to get pregnant as a virgin if a woman does not keep her distance from a man.

Okeowo’s ideal girl is “The God Girl”, “The Virgin”.

The villains of her narrative are lecherous men who take advantage of young girls with baits, randy young men who are just interested in their own lust, reckless young girls who give in to peer pressure or are simply wayward, and parents who have a duty to guide their children but are themselves neck-deep in sin, setting bad examples from generation to generation.

Okeowo’s evangelical mission is to save everyone and to get those who may have been victims at one point or the other to move on, and embrace a new life, like Oprah Winfrey and Joyce Meyer.

These are altogether, books that should be read by every young girl out there who has been rendered vulnerable in a society that has lost its moral dimension.

Copies of the book should be purchased and distributed widely in schools not just across Nigeria but the entire African continent. The plight of the girl-child in Nigeria as demonstrated in the pages of these three books is fairly representative of a universal dilemma, felt and experienced more, in varying degrees, in the developing world, especially, where poverty is rife, and the enforcement of fundamental human rights is culturally determined. Okeowo constructs a binary universe of vulnerable girls and bad boys/men but isn’t it society itself that should be blamed and isn’t the system of leadership and governance in need of re-consideration? The assumption that men are evil may be too much of a generalisation. I do not believe that all men and all boys are bad or that the overriding goal of every male in relation to the opposite gender is sexual intercourse. The truth is that even adolescent boys are also as vulnerable as the girls and there must be examples in that regard if we look closely enough.

The argument about more responsible and intentional, value-driven parenting is unexceptionable but it truly takes a village to raise a child, and to the extent that the environment is important: certainly there must be roles for institutions- religious, civil, traditional and communal. Okeowo raises important questions about how to save the girl child. Who will save the boy-child too? And what role must governments play to protect all segments of the population? These are the other questions beyond the teachings of the Bible, beyond morality, beyond faith and individual choices.

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