Varsities open registers for lecturers

...towards a better life for the people

**

VOL. 25: NO. 62027

EFCC clears ex-Imo dep gov, Agbaso 14

N150

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2013

Bride, 7 others die in Kano auto crash 7

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Varsities open registers for lecturers •Sack Wike, not us, ASUU tells FG, as lecturers shun registers

BY OUR REPORTERS

A

BUJA — AS the deadline given by Federal Government to the Academic Staff Union of Universities, ASUU, to call off the six month-old strike or be sacked expires tomorrow, several universities have opened registers to be signed by the lecturers even as the leadership of ASUU insisted that the strike will continue.

Continues on page 5

COLUMNIST:

Femi Aribisala faribisala@yahoo.com

Mr & Mrs

BOKO HARAM—Scenes of the Boko Haram attack on Maiduguri Air Force base, airport and parks, as Gov. Shettima visits affected areas.

Scores feared dead as Boko Haram attacks Air Force Base in Maiduguri ...Govt imposes 24-hr curfew C M Y K

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2 — Vanguard, TUESDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2013

Vanguard, TUESDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2013 — 3

C M Y K

4 — Vanguard, TUESDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2013

Vanguard, TUESDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2013 — 5

POCKET CARTOON

TUC MEETS JONATHAN—President Goodluck Jonathan (r) welcoming the Immediate Past President, Trade Union Congress, Comrade Peter Esele; as Vice President Namadi Sambo (2r); welcomes the TUC 1st Deputy President, Comrade Sunday Olusoji Salako (3rdl); while the current TUC National President, Comrade Bobboi Bala Kaigama (3rdr) and the Secretary-General , Comrade John Kolawole (l) watch during a parley between the TUC new Executive Council members and the Presidency at the State House, Abuja, yesterday. Photo: Abayomi Adeshida.

Varsities open registers for lecturers Continues from page 1

Lectures resume at AAUA At Ondo state-owned Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko (AAUA) lectures resumed, yesterday, but

few lecturers and students were seen in the lecture theaters. Lectures were held in the Department of History and the Faculty of Education as time table for the session has been released by the university authority. The university, in a reminder,

LIFEWORDS

BY PASTOR ITUAH

No one has ever made himself great by showing how small someone else is— Irvin Himmel

TAKE HEART

BY ELLA RANDLE

I

T doesn’t matter what you did or where you were...it matters where you are and what you’re doing. Get out there! Sing the song in your heart and NEVER let anyone shut you up! – Steve Maraboli Here is a beautiful story according to John Gardner, founding chairman of Common Cause: This cheerful old man asks a fascinating question of just about everybody he meets for the first time. Once they exchange names and they get to the part where one is sure to ask the other where they work or what they do for a living, he turns the conversation in a different direction. He asks his new acquaintance an unusual question: “What have you done that you believe in and you are proud of?”

Steve Goodier, who retold this story concludes that the question is direct and a little unsettling. It is not as easy to answer as “what do you do for a living?” It requires some thought. When asked why he likes to pose that question, the old man responds that he doesn’t care how they answer. He just wants to put the thought into their minds. He thinks everyone should live their lives in such a way that they can have a good answer. So this very moment, ask yourself. “What have you done that you believe in and are proud of?”

I think this can be one of the most powerful questions we can ever ask ourselves. It causes us to look deep inside and, like the old man says, prompts us to live our lives in such a way that we can have a good answer.

by the Registrar, Mr. Bamidele Olotu confirmed the resumption of lectures. Olotu said in a statement that: “In line with an earlier circular to all students on resumption for the second semester 2012/2013 academic session, all students of Adekunle Ajasin University, AkungbaAkoko in particular, their parents and the public in general are hereby informed that commencement of lectures on Monday, December 2, 2013, remains sacrosanct as announced. It added that “registration had indeed commenced in accordance with the university approved academic calendar.”

Some of the academic staff who spoke with the Information Unit of the university but would not want their names in print confirmed that they had resumed for work and that they attended the faculty board meetings held on Monday and Tuesday last week. Some of the students who also spoke said they were happy about the development. They urged ASUU to cooperate with the Management and expressed optimism that lectures would begin in full swing as announced.

ESUT lecturers, students back to school

Students and lecturers of the Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT) have also returned to school following a directive by the school authorities.

The News Agency of Nigeria, NAN, correspondent who monitored the situation at the Enugu and Agbani campuses of the university reports that the students were in their various departments exchanging pleasantries and checking the notice boards.

At the faculties of engineering and management sciences in the Enugu campus, students in their numbers were copying the second semester examination timetables pasted on the notice boards.

The lecturers, on the other hand, held a meeting with the governing council of the university at the Agbani campus on the resumption of work.

Addressing the lecturers, chairman of the council, Chief Chilo Offiah, appealed to them to sheathe their swords and return to classes in the interest of the students. Offiah thanked the lecturers for attending the meeting and assured them that the council would do all it could to ensure the improvement of their welfare.

The executive members of the ESUT branch of the Academic Staff Union

of Universities (ASUU), which called the strike, did not attend the meeting.

It was however a different story at the Enugu campus of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka as only a few students and lecturers were on campus. NAN reports that the few lecturers were in their various offices discussing or reading while the non-academic staff members were busy working. Some of the lecturers who spoke on conditions of anonymity said they were waiting for directives from both the school authorities and the ASUU branch.

“We heard on the radio that we should resume classes but we have not received any circular to that effect,” some of them said. Only the medical students who did not join the strike were fully on campus.

Lecturers shun registers at UI At the University of Ibadan, ASUU members resolved not to sign any register as directed by the government. The lecturers took the decision during a congress held in the institution yesterday.

This came as all lecture rooms in various faculties were under lock and key.

The campus was a ghost of itself as few people were seen moving around. Apart from the fact that students feel the government’s order would not help the faceoff, the advice given by the academic union to parents that they should not expose their wards to danger may have been adhered to by most parents.

Speaking with newsmen, the chairman, UI chapter of ASUU, Dr Olusegun Ajiboye said the union remained on course at ensuring that government funds public

universities.

Though, he stated that the union respects the office of Mr President, he alleged that Dr. Doyin Okupe and others in his government were trying to ridicule the office of the President through their unguarded utterances against the union.

UNIBEN students stay away to honour Iyayi At the University of Benin, in spite of announcement by the university authorities that academic activities would resume today, there were no signs of resumption in the university yesterday, as both the Ekenwa and Ugbowo campuses were empty.

Students of the university said they would not resume until the remains of ProfessorFestus Iyayi who they held in high esteem is buried. Vanguard also learnt that ASUU members in both UNIBEN and the state owned Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma were not ready to resume duties today.

ASUU chairman, UNIBEN chapter, Dr. Tony Monye when contacted said they were busy preparing for the burial of Professor Festus Iyayi even as he added that ASUU members would not resume duties.

No lecturers at Ambrose Ali University Meanwhile, at the Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, there were no signs that the university would soon re-open as no student was at the two campuses of the university at Emuado and the main campus. A lecturer who spoke with Vanguard on condition of anonymity said there has been no directive from

Continues on page 42

6—Vanguard, TUESDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2013

Court orders bank N160,000 compensation payment from police account

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BUJA — AN FCT High Court, yesterday, ordered FirstBank Plc to pay N160,000 from the Nigeria Police account to a businessman, Tijani Olabode, as compensation for unlawful detention.

The amount include N100,000 as general damages against the police for breaching Olabode’s human rights, N10,000 as out-of-pocket expenses and N50,000 as additional cost of executing the garnishee order.

A garnishee order is a legal procedure by which a judgment creditor collects what a judgment debtor owes him by reaching the debtor’s property when it is in the hands of someone other than the debtor.

Delivering her ruling, Justice Angela Otaluka, made the ‘garnishee order absolute,‘ following the inability of the police to pay compensation to Olabode, based on an earlier order of the court.

“The court, hereby, makes the garnishee order absolute against the FirstBank Plc Account Number: 2015950936 belonging to the judgment debtors.

“By this, the bank is ordered to pay the judgment creditor the total sum of N160, 000 from the judgment debtor’s account with the bank,” Otaluka ordered.

The police had failed to comply with an earlier order of the court, dated January 31, 2012 to pay the plaintiff (applicant) the sum of N100,00 for unlawfully arresting him and, thereby, infringing on his fundamental rights.

Otaluka had in the judgment ordered that the plaintiff was entitled to N100,000 as general damages against the police for breach of his fundamental rights and N10,000 as outof- pocket expenses.

It would be recalled that Olabode had sued the Inspector-General of Police for his arrest and detention at the Lugbe Divisional Police Station on May 12, 2011.

Joined in the suit were the FCT Commissioner of Police, Minister of Police Affairs, Divisional Police Officer, Lugbe and Investigating Police Officer.

How I disarmed my kidnappers — GUO Motors boss

BY OKONKWO EZE

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NITSHA — IN continuation of his testimony in his own kidnap case, Chairman/ Chief Executive Officer of G.U.O. Motors Limited, Chief Godwin Okeke, yesterday, told an Onitsha High Court presided over by Justice Chudi Nwankwo how he managed to disarm one of his kidnappers, Emeka Eze (a.k.a Emeka Nando).

Emeka Eze is second-in-command of the gang that kidnapped him at the premises of the All Saints Anglican Church Cathedral, Onitsha, Anambra State on August 23, 2009.

Okeke recalled that they actually brutalized him with bites, hit him with machetes, gun butts and other objects all over his body and even shot him on his left leg while he was struggling with them at the kidnap point.

He said the serious injury he sustained, apart from the bullet shot, was the machete cut inflicted on him by Ifeanyi Okafor, the second defendant, on his left hand.

Okeke who disclosed this at the continuation of his cross-examination by D. U. Nwafor, counsel to second defendant, Ifeanyi Okafor, maintained that they attacked him with different types of weapons and even bit him when he disarmed Emeka Eze. Okeke noted that the machete cut inflicted on him at their hideout by Okafor who became furious that he (Okeke) reduced his N1 billion earlier offer to only N30 million, was the one that gave him serious wound.

Written statements Vanguard further reports on his written statement at the state Special Anti-Robbery Squad, SARS, headquarters, Awkuzu, dated January 8, 2010 in which Okeke wrote as follows: “They shot me on my left leg and gave me several machete cuts on my hand. My Lord, I told this court few minutes ago that they attacked me with several weapons, hit me all over the body and even bit me severally, but the only one that gave me this serious wound on my left hand was the second defendant’s machete cut.”

Responding to a question by the defence counsel, D. U. Nwafor who asked:”From the time you were kidnapped at All Saints Church to the time you were released, did any of them inflict any cut in your hand?” and he answered: “To the best of my knowledge, my Lord, it was only that cut from the second defendant that gave me a

serious wound, but the second defendant is here and he is in a better position to tell the court how many cuts he gave me.”

The defence counsel then asked whether he made any statement to SARS at Awkuzu on January 8, 2010.

Okeke replied: “I made several statements at Awkuzu but I can’t remember their dates.”

Again, Nwafor asked him: “How many statements did you make to the police altogether,” to which he replied: “About four or five different statements but I can’t remember all their contents because all my kidnappers

Chief Godwin Okeke, GUO Motors boss

were arrested on different dates.”

At this stage, the defence counsel applied to tender a Certified True Copy, CTC, of Okeke’s statement to SARS dated January 8, 2010 as an exhibit, but the prosecution counsel, Chris Ajugwe, relying on Section 232 of the Evidence Act. 2011, raised an objection on the ground that the proper foundation had not been laid on tendering a previous statement as evidence in court, more so, when the defence counsel had not adduced any cogent reason for making such an application.

Justice Nwankwo who, however, admitted the statement as evidence which he marked as Exhibit ‘C’, said the statement so admitted might not play much role at this early stage, adding that it could only be considered during the stage of judgment writing.

The court, therefore, adjourned further hearing in the matter till today, Wednesday, December 4 and Thursday, December 5, for further cross-examinations of Okeke, the first Prosecution Witness, PW1, by both the second defence counsel, Nwafor and the third defence counsel, Chinelo Okongwu.

One dies, 11 injured in Osun auto crash

BY GBENGA OLARINOYE

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SOGBO — A motor accident on Sunday evening in Osogbo, Osun State capital left one person dead while 11 others sustained serious injuries.

The accident which occurred at Owode along the ever busy Gbongan/Ibadan road, Osogbo was reportedly as a result of tyre burst.

A Mazda 2000 bus with 12 passengers from Lagos State, was involved in the lone accident.

The vehicle with number plate Lagos XL 463MUS reportedly somersaulted severally after its rear tyres blew out.

The Sector Commander of the Federal Roads Safety Corps (FRSC) in the state, Mr Imoh Etuk, who confirmed the accident said 11 victims are already at the Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH) Teaching Hospital, Osogbo and the state hospital, Asubiaro, Osogbo.

He said the corpse of the driver is at the morgue of the LAUTECH

Teaching Hospital and efforts are on to inform his relatives.

The FRSC commander who urged motorists to ensure that their vehicles are in good condition always noted that the accident was as a result of poor condition of the tyres of the vehicles.

He stressed the need for drivers to avoid over speeding, even as he said that his men were strategically located in different parts of the state to prevent accidents before and after Christmas celebration.

Motorists fighting on Independence Avenue, Central Business District in Abuja, yesterday.

PHOTO: NAN.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2013—7

Bride, 7 others perish in Kano road accident

BY ABDULSALAM MUHAMMAD

K

ANO — IT was a tragic end for a bride and seven members of her entourage on their way to her husband’s home in Azare, Bauchi State, in an Honda Civic car which crashed into an articulated truck, killing them on the spot.

Eyewitnesses told Vanguard that the incident occurred Friday night in Gaya, Kano State An eyewitness said: “The accident occurred at a point of diversion in Gaya on Kano-Maiduguri federal highway around 7.05pm and by the time we got there we were confronted with corpses of seven females and a male.

“The police division in the ancient city of Gaya mobilized for rescue operation and conveyed the bodies to Gaya General Hospital.”

Vanguard leant that the incident also triggered a traffic gridlock on the highway as commuters joined in the rescue operation.

Confirming the incident, the Commandant, Federal Road Safety Corps, FRSC, Kano, Malam Muhammad Garba, said his command was alerted after the rescue operation by the Police, stressing that their investi-

gation revealed that a bride was being led to her husband’s home in Azare.

Garba said: “Yes, the inci-

dent occurred around 7.05 pm when a Honda Civic car with number plate AG 438 GYA crashed into a heavy duty ve-

BY SAMUEL OYADONGHA

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An accident scene where a site crane skidded off a light rail bridge under construction and fell into a ditch, at Orile Iganmu, Lagos, yesterday. PHOTO: NAN.

Abductors of Bayelsa PDP treasurer's wife, daughter demand N100m ransom ...as commissioner father’s kidnappers reduce ransom to N50m

BY SAMUEL OYADONGHA

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ENAGOA —THE kidnap pers of the wife and daughter of the treasurer of the Bayelsa State chapter of the

Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Gbalipre Turner have demanded N100 million as ransom for their release.

This is just as the abductors of the father of the state Com-

Man, 50, allegedly rapes 12-yr-old girl

BY GBENGA OLARINOYE

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SOGBO — A 50-year-old man, Tajudeen Omole, has been arraigned before an Osogbo chief magistrate's court for allegedly having carnal knowledge of a 12-year-old girl.

The accused person was said to have committed the offence on November 27, 2013 at 1, Ikolaba, Osogbo, the capital of Osun State.

It was reliably gathered that the accused went to the house of the victim to ask after her sister who he claimed was his friend.

The sister was not in the house and the accused cunningly lured the girl into her room where he allegedly defiled her.

It was further gathered that although the girl attempted to scream for help, she was over powered.

She, thereafter, reported the case to those she found around the house.

The suspect was later arrested by the residents who

hicle with number plate XA633KAG killing eight people on the spot at point of diversion on the strategic road.”

Remains of two soldiers killed in boat mishap recovered

handed him over to the police.

The Police prosecutor, Inspector Solomon Oladele, told the court that the offence committed was punishable under section 218 of the criminal code cap 34 vol II laws of Osun State Nigeria, 2003.

Counsel to the accused, Mr.

Okobe Nagite, applied for the bail.

Presiding magistrate, Mr. Olusola Aluko, in his ruling ordered that the accused be remanded in Ilesha prison while counsel to the accused is to file a formal application for his bail.

Robbers raid Bauchi govt press crew bus

BY SUZAN EDEH

B

AUCHI — FOUR gun men suspected to be robbers raided four vehicles, including the Bauchi State Government Press Crew bus and relieved occupants of their cash, cell phones and other valuables at a junction in Toto Local Government Area of Nasarawa State.

Vanguard gathered that the robbery happened around 4.30 pm when the press crew was returning from the traditional title ceremony of the Bauchi State Governor, Isa Yuguda, in

Oyo State.

Explaining how they were robbed, a member of the press crew who pleaded anonymity said the robbers, who had been operating on that particular road for sometime, first blocked the road to prevent vehicles from crossing.

According to him, three vehicles fell victim to the robbers as they forced all passengers to lie on the ground.

He said: “The masked robbers who were four in number started shooting sporadically when they cited the four vehicles, including the state government press crew bus.

missioner for Tourism Development, Nelson Belief, have reduced their ransom demand from N98 million to N50 million, according to a family source.

It was learnt that the gunmen, who abducted the wife and daughter of the state PDP treasurer at the riverside Opume town in Ogbia council area of the state also demanded to speak with the brother to the husband of the kidnapped woman, King Amalate J. Turner.

King Turner is the paramount ruler of Opume Kingdom and an influential figure in the state as well as a close associate of President Goodluck Jonathan.

The operatives of the state police command, it was learnt, have tracked the kidnappers of the mother and daughter to the creeks of Ondo State.

A source close to the antikidnapping squad of the state command said intelligence indicates that the kidnappers have moved the abductees to a location in Ondo.

Contacted on the development, the state Police Public Relations Officer, Mr Alex Akhigbe, said though the report on the ransom demand had not been made available to the command, its operatives were on the trail of the kidnappers and would soon apprehend them.

ENAGOA — THE re mains of two soldiers attached to the Joint Task Force, who died in a boat mishap, weekend, in the creek of Nembe in Nembe Local Government Area of Bayelsa State have been recovered.

A security source in the coastal area told Vanguard that the bodies of two of the three soldiers that drowned were recovered yesterday by search parties involving local divers and operatives of the Joint Task Force while one is still missing.

The source, however, added that the search for a third personnel and the soldiers' rifles in the mangrove creek was ongoing.

The soldiers, who were said to be on their way to take over duties from their colleagues at a security post in Nembe, died when the boat in which they were travelling was hit by violent wave and it capsized.

The mishap, according to the source, occurred at about 4 pm, Saturday, along the NembeObioku creek in the Bayelsa East senatorial district.

“Two of the corpses were recovered from the river this morning (yesterday) while search is ongoing for the third soldier and their rifles.

Their boat was said to have lost control and capsized after it was hit by violent storm,” the security source who pleaded anonymity said.

Media Coordinator, JTF, Col. Onyema Nwachukwu, had on Sunday when contacted on the unfortunate incident blamed the boat mishap on high tidal current along the river.

Nwachukwu who said the information about the incident was still sketchy, however, added that only one of the soldiers had been declared missing.

8—Vanguard, TUESDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2013

Activists, others storm Benin for Iyayi

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CUSTOMER FORUM: From left— Executive Director, Public Sector, North, First Bank Nigeria Ltd., Mr. Dauda Lawal; Managing Director, Safetech Security Company Ltd., Mr. Mike Nwosu; GMD/CEO, FirstBank, Mr. Bisi Onasanya; Mrs. Dupe Akinkugbe and Head, Retail Banking, North, Mr. Abdullahi Ibrahim, at the FirstBank Customer Engagement Forum in Abuja.

Scores feared dead as Boko Haram attacks Maiduguri Air Force base z 24-hr curfew imposed

BY KINGSLEY OMONOBI, BEN AGANDE & NDAHI MARAMA

S

CORES were feared dead, yesterday, when members of the Islamist sect, Boko Haram, attacked 79 Composite Group Air Force Base, Maiduguri International Airport and some Army locations in Borno State.

There were conflicting reports as to the casualty figures. While eyewitnesses said they saw five military vehicles conveying the bodies of dead security personnel to the hospital, the military reported that two of its officers were injured, while 24 terrorists were killed.

Meanwhile, a 24-hour curfew has been imposed in Maiduguri.

President Goodluck Jonathan, in reaction, summoned an emergency security meeting of the Service Chiefs.

The meeting was attended by the National Security Adviser, Col Sambo Dasuki (rtd); Chief of Defence Staff, Admiral Ola Sa’ad Ibrahim; Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen. Azubike Ihejirika and Chief of Air Staff, Air Vice Marshal Alex Badeh.

There was no statement at the end of the meeting held in the office of the President at the Presidential Villa, but the Chief of Defense Staff who initially refused to talk to newsmen, later said that the situation was being managed. He then entered his car and drove off.

Casualties

Unconfirmed reports had it that over 20 security operatives were killed, while two

helicopters at the NAF Base and some parts of the staff quarters were burnt.

The Defence Headquarters however said 24 members of the insurgents had been killed, while two air force personnel were injured.

Confirming the development in a statement entitled Daring Terrorists Attack Military Locations in Maiduguri, the Defence Headquarters through the Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Chris Olukolade, said: “Nigerian Security Forces today (yesterday) repelled a pre-dawn attack on Maiduguri by suspected terrorists.

“Military locations such as Nigerian Air Force Base and some Nigerian Army locations in Maiduguri were targeted during the attack.

24 insurgents dead— Army

“Three decommissioned military aircrafts as well as two helicopters were incapacitated in the course of the attack.

“Two Air Force personnel were also wounded, while 24 insurgents died during the exchange of fire.

“Security forces are in pursuit of the terrorists in the Djemtillo general area along the Maiduguri/Banishek axis.

Movements in Maiduguri and environs have been restricted.

“Citizens are enjoined to report any of the fleeing insurgents, most of who could be identified with gunshot wounds whenever they are sighted.

“Meanwhile, normal flights operations to and from the

Maiduguri Airport, which were earlier temporarily disrupted have resumed.”

Also, the Borno State government, yesterday, ordered the imposition of a 24-hours curfew on Maiduguri.

A statement by the Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Ahmed Jidda, announced the curfew.

It said the curfew was imposed in consultation with the 7 Division of the Nigerian Army in Maiduguri.

The statement added that “during the period of curfew, government pleads with all citizens to remain calm.

“Only vehicles on emergency calls and essential services are allowed to move, while the curfew will be lifted as soon as situation improves.”

It was gathered that the incident, which started at about 3a.m. shocked the whole city as sporadic gunshots and other rocket-propelled launchers sounds were heard all over the town, with aircraft hovering around Maiduguri and Jere metropolis throughout the night up to 8a.m.

Eyewitnesses' accounts

Sources said that during the attacks on the air force base and other places, including the Maiduguri International Airport, several people were killed as the terrorists, numbering over 300, planted explosives in some targeted areas in the state capital.

Also attacked were the newly constructed trailer parks along Damaturu-Maiduguri Road, military check points and other residential and public buildings, which according to the sources

led to the death of many people.

An eyewitness, who resides in Gomari Airport area, just few metres away to the air force base, said: “I saw five military opera-tion vehicles conveying dead bo-dies to the hospital at about 6a.m.

“The dead bodies were suspected to be security agencies killed in the attack.”

It was also gathered that, with the assistance of airstrikes by military troops, over 100 terrorists were killed.

Gov Shettima reacts

Governor Kashim Shettima who visited the affected areas, assured that the state government will not be deterred in its effort to secure the lives and property of its citizens.

While briefing Governor Kashim Shettima, who visited the 333 Mini Barracks, a military officer said: “The terrorists attacked the barracks with sophisticated weapons including armoured tanks, antiaircrafts vehicles and motorcycles.

“They went away with nine vehicles belonging to the Department of State Services, DSS, while seven security men were seriously injured including an SSS officer in the attack.”

He, however, told the governor that he was not sure if some of those injured and were taken to hospital for treatment will survive, due to the nature of the injuries.

Also, briefing the governor at the Divisional Police Headquarters, the DPO, said the whole building including offices and the cells were completely razed as he had to order his men to take cover due to the superior

ABOUR and human rights activists from across the country are expected to storm Benin, Edo State, tomorrow for a solidarity march in honour of Professor Festus Iyayi, former President, Academic Staff Union of Universities, ASUU, who was killed by a vehicle in the Kogi State Governor’s convoy three weeks ago.

The march, which kick starts burial rites for Iyayi, begins at 9am from the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, University of Benin, and will terminate at his residence on 11, Bello Street, Off Benin-Lagos Road, Isihor, where a gathering featuring tributes and a lecture entitled Festus Iyayi: Hero of the Revolution has been planned.

Other highlights of the gathering include cultural performances, literary rendition, dances and video documentary.

A candlelight procession is also slated for the former president by the Committee for the Defence of Human Rights, CDHR, at UNIBEN at 7p.m.

According to the burial programme by the family, a vigil mass and service of songs will hold on Thursday, December 5 at his residence between 4pm and 6pm.

This will be followed by a night of readings and tributes also at his residence from 7pm to 9pm.

A lying in state will hold at his residence from 8am on Friday, December 6, while a commendation service is scheduled for Akin Deko (Main) Auditorium of UNIBEN at 10am.

The body is expected to depart Benin at 12 noon for Ugbegun, Esan Central Local Government Area, where another lying in state has been planned for 2pm.

A vigil that will also feature readings and tributes is scheduled for the country home from 8pm.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2013—9

Consumers, operators disagree as power drops

BY SEBASTINE OBASI

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ISING estimated billings, drop in power generation on account of gas shortages, funding and confusion over the Multi-Year Tariff Order, MYTO, measurement are among the legion of issues resulting in the near collapse of power supply in the country.

Electricity supply has dropped drastically in recent times, as new investors battle operational issues, thereby frustrating business and domestic activities.

As a result, consumers are resisting paying the estimated bills until they are assured of regular supply, while denying the new investors the funds they require to improve on their operations.

New operators of the erstwhile Power Holding Company of Nigeria, PHCN, generating and distribution companies, GENCOs and DISCOs, appear to be overwhelmed by these challenges since taking over on November 1.

Confusion galore

Giving more insight into the avalanche of challenges at the just concluded first general meeting organised by Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission, NERC, in Abuja, Mrs. Funke Osibodu, Director, Benin Electricity Distribution Company, described the situation as chaotic.

She said: “There is so much confusion in the public, and we need to look at how to address this.

“For instance, the public believes they are not supposed to pay anything until January; that they should not be disconnected until then; and they believe they can come and stand in front of you and collect pre-paid meters just like that.”

But electricity consumers are impatient and want to see regular power rather than being bothered with the issues relating to power system operation from generation (GENCOs), transmission and distribution (DISCOs).

According to Osibodu, “anything that happens anywhere, even if it is not your concern, it is assumed that it is your doing.

“The public believes that the lack of power is because the new owners in distribution companies do not know what they are doing.

“But in reality, it is a GENCO problem as a result of gas shortage. At one point, we were about going on air to make people know the true position.”

She said that the public was expecting too much too soon from the new operators.

Power generation

Also speaking, Dr. Jamili Gwamna, Managing Director/ Chief Executive Officer, CEO, Kano DISCO, disclosed that there had been a drop in power generation.

He said the amount of power allocated to his company was far below its capacity without giving details, adding that the development had reduced the DISCO’s revenue projections.

He lamented: “Our power allocation has been low in recent times. How on earth will customers pay me and how will I pay money also?

“There has not been power and when you threaten to disconnect consumers, they tell you to hurry up with the disconnection process.”

MYTO measurement

For Mr. Adeyemi Adenuga, Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, CEO, Geregu Power Plc (GENCO), the challenge borders more on activities of the system operator.

He said: “The system operator that is supposed to know that capacity declaration is what they should use to measure capacity continues to

use another thing outside what is in the Multi-YearTariff- Order 2, MYTO, agreement and outside the interim rules that have been provided.

“We are not happy and I think that the regulator, apart from coming up with all these beautiful rules, should make sure that the people who are there are actually keeping to these issues.”

Sam Amadi, Chairman, NERC, said the meeting was organised to hear out the operators and their challenges.

He promised that all the issues raised would be addressed by NERC.

Funding challenges

Though the new investors did not talk about funding, it was learnt that huge investment would be needed to put the GENCOS and DISCOS on track to meet the aspirations of Nigerians.

According to the Bureau of Public Enterprises, BPE, the DISCOs alone would require about $1.8 billion (about N288 billion) as capital expenditure over the next five years to attain efficiency and meet the required capacity.

However, such capital outlay would be challenging, given the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN’s directive that banks should scale down funding in the power sector, while international lenders are said not to be favourably disposed to lending to Nigerians due to what they described as volatile polity.

But Bekuochi Nwawudu, Director, CBO Capital, an investment advisory and project development firm, who is also an energy expert, said that the power companies would get the money to fund their projects.

He argued that, “telecommunications companies found the money and expanded. Oil companies have borrowed significant amount.

“Power will be the same.

The question is will people pay their bills and thus will revenues/profits be demonstrated?

“If this happens, pensions funds have capital and bonds can be issued— the banks do not need to do it all.”

Nwawudu said the privatisation of the power sector has thrown up opportunities in the economy.

NDDC: From left— Chairman of the Board, Senator Bassey Ewa-Henshaw; Managing Director, Bassey Dan-Abia and Executive Director, Finance and Accounts, Totenaan Henry, all of Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, at the screening of NDDC Board members by the Senate Committee on NDDC at National Assembly, Abuja. PHOTO: Gbemiga Olamikan.

CONGRESS: RCCG assures on traffic control

BY SAM EYOBOKA

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HE Redeemed Christian Church of God, RCCG, yesterday announced its preparedness to host millions of participants from different parts of the world with effect from Monday for this year ’s Holy Ghost Congress with the assurance that parking lots have been expanded to guarantee free flow of traffic along the LagosIbadan Expressway.

Addressing religious correspondents at the Redemption Camp on preparations that have been made for a hitchfree congress, Special Assistant to the General Overseer on Administration and Personnel, Pastor Johnson Odesola, said there will be no need for anyone to park his vehicle by the expressway.

Pastor Odesola also used the occasion to debunk claims making the rounds that any traffic mayhem along the L a g o s - I b a d a n Expressway was caused by one activity or the other by the church.

He said the church, over the years, had created sufficient parking lots within the camp for the use of the ever-growing number of participants.

He said the church had deployed church volunteers to complement the efforts of a detachment of Policemen, Federal Road Safety operatives and other para-military operatives drawn from Ogun State and neighbouring states to control traffic.

Jonathan promises equal, fair development

BY BEN AGANDE

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BUJA— PRESIDENT Goodluck Jonathan has assured Nigerians that he is committed to equal development of all parts of the nation, saying he would neither be influenced by religious, ethnic nor regional considerations.

He spoke, yesterday, at his investiture with Knight Grand

Cross by the Noble Communion and Holy Apostolic Order of St. Hadrian of Canterbury, at the Presidential Villa.

While the President assured that everyone will be treated equally by his administration, he enjoined Nigerians to always treat each other fairly.

The President noted that receiving religious awards challenged him to put his best

in the service of the nation.

The President was decorated with the investiture by Archbishop Doye Teido Agama and assisted by Rt. Rev. Duke Akamisoko, Anglican Bishop of Kubwa, Abuja.

Bishop Agama noted that as the leader of the most populous country in Africa, President Jonathan does not only embody the hopes and aspirations of Nigerians, but

also aspects of the spiritual destiny of all sons and daughters of Africa everywhere.

He said the investiture reflects what God the Father has already invested in the President through Jesus Christ and the power and presence of the Holy Spirit upon his life.

Agama recalled the previous Award of Distinguished Fellow Emeritus of the Order conferred on the President in 2009.

10—Vanguard, TUESDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2013

Police officer can sue Nigeria Police over sack — Oyetibo

BY BARTHOLOMEW MADUKWE

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AGOS — COUNSEL to former chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu in the suit that reinstated him to his position in the Nigeria Police Force, as Assistant Inspector-General (AIG) before he resigned, Mr. Tayo Oyetibo SAN, yesterday said it was wrong to say that a police officer could not sue the Nigeria Police over sack.

Oyetibo who spoke with Vanguard with in Lekki, Lagos, said at some points the Federal Government saw the hand writing on the wall and agreed that we (Ribadu) should file terms in court.

He said: “We challenged the motion and also the dismissal. And at some points the Federal Government saw the hand writing on the wall and agreed that we should file terms in court and his rank was restored as Assistant Inspector-General, and also he was reinstated in the police service."

Abide by Hippocratic Oath, physicians told

BY ESTHER ONYEGBULA

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AGOS — NIGERIAN physicians have been advised to abide by their Hippocratic Oath with a view to promoting patient care, which is the centre of medical profession.

Giving the advice in Lagos, Chief Medical Director,CMD, Lagos University Teaching Hospital, LUTH, Professor Akin Osibogun, also noted the urgent need for physicians to review their activities as part of efforts to improve access to health services.

The CMD who spoke as Guest Lecturer at the Annual Faculty Day Lecture of the Faculty of Anaesthesia, National PostGraduate Medical College with the theme:”The limitations and wonders of modern medicine” said: “Patient care should be accompanied by certain rights to enable the physicians give direction to their care.”

Associated airlines sends crash crew survivors to S-Africa

BY KENNETH EHIGIATOR

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AGOS — MANAGEMENT of Associated Airlines has finally sent its two cabin crew members who were involved in its aircrash in Lagos on October 3, 2013 to South Africa for treatment.

The airliner, Embraer 120, crashed close to the Murtala Muhammed Airport while

conveying the remains of former governor of Ondo State, Dr. Olusegun Agagu, to Akure for burial.

The two cabin crew members, Miss Toyin Samson and Mrs. Quinneth Owolabi, had been receiving treatment at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, LASUTH, and Nigeria Airforce Hospital, Airforce Base, Ikeja, respectively, following injuries sustained in the crash.

Vanguard gathered yesterday, that the victims were flown out of the country last Monday, even though the left toes of Mrs. Owolabi had been amputated due to gangrene infection.

It was also learnt that the reason given by the airline for flying them out late was to allow them stabilise in the hospitals where they were receiving treatments.

Confirming the development to Vanguard, yesterday, President

CELEBRATION: From left, wife of Lagos State Governor, Mrs. Abimbola Fashola; President, Fs Club, Mr. Oladeinde Brown; Special Adviser to Lagos State Governor on Educaton, Mr. Fatai Olukoga, and Chairman, Philanthropic Committee, Fs Club, Chief Tunde Daramola, during Fs Club Charity Day celebration, in Lagos, weekend.

of National Cabin Crew Association, NACCA, Mr. Charles Onuoha, said the association was delighted that the airline had risen to the occasion by attending to the welfare of the victims.

He said the airline also picked the bills of the two ladies before moving them out of the country for further treatment.

"We are happy that Associated Airlines has done the needful.

Our two members who survived the crash were transferred to a South African hospital last Monday to continue their posttrauma treatment and we are monitoring their situation. The airlines sent them out because they know the insurers will pay," Onuoha told Vanguard.

He said the airlines’ management contemplated sending them to Israel for treatment before eventually settling for South Africa.

On compensation for the victims, as spelt out by the International Civil Aviation Organisation, ICAO, Onuoha said the airlines was in a position to pay families of passengers and crew, since the aircraft was covered by insurance.

ICAO specifies payment of $100,000 compensation to families of victims of the crash.

FG's sack threat for ASUU members 'll fail — Aturu

BY FUNMI KOMOLAFE

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AGOS — LAGOS based lawyer and activist, Barrister Bamidele Aturu, yesterday, dismissed the Federal Government’s sack threat to striking university lecturers, saying that government has failed to appreciate the rot in the university system. Rather, he said government should meet the demands of Academic Staff Union of Universities, ASUU. Aturu, who spoke at the 6th Annual Law and Social Development lecture and public presentation of a book, 'Law and Practice of the National Industrial Court,” at Lagos Airport Hotel, said it is “sad” that the Fededral Government has failed to appreciate the rot in the university system which ASUU wants corrected,” adding that members of ASUU would not be cowed by such threats.

Condemning the "resume or be sacked" order, Mr. Aturu said: “The truth of the matter is that we no longer have universities in Nigeria. This explains why many people among the ruling class have their children and wards in foreign universities.

"The demands of ASUU in my view are legitimate and patriotic. The government should do everything possible to meet those reasonable demands in order for our schools to be reopened as quickly as possible.”

He recalled attempts by previous military governments to cow ASUU which failed, and warned that the threat of the education minister will also fail.

The guest lecturer, Professor Sofiri Joab- Peterside of the Department of Sociology, Universtity of Port Harcourt, who spoke on 'The Economy, the Rogues and the Law: The Development Conundrum,' noted that, “the average Nigerian lives on less than one dollar a day. There are no roads, just as the public hospitals themselves are “dead” and the high education sector practically broken with ASUU

on strike for more than four months over the Federal Government’s unfulfilled agreement, while the culture of impunity has become an integral part of the norm of political appointees.”

Also, Barrister Aturu, who insisted that those responsible for the accident that killed Professor Festus Iyayi be brought to book, said, "Iyayi did not die in an accident, he was murdered, pure and simple.

"We reiterate our call for the driver of the escort vehicle that snuffed the life out of this noble champion of the oppressed to be fished out and prosecuted.

They may have privatised the economy; we won’t let them privatise our lives.”

He also dismissed the ongoing National Conference, saying that it will not achieve the objectives of the original proponents of the idea. Though, he spoke against the decision to boycott it, suggesting that progressive organisations

should use the forum to state their views on the state of the nation.

Professor Sofiri Joab- Peterside, also a guest speaker lamented that Nigeria has been unable to make any remarkable development as a result of corruption .

Vanguard, TUESDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2013—11

Akure stands still for late Deji zFashola, Oni mourn

BY DAYO JOHNSON

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KURE — AKURE, the Ondo State capital, stood still yesterday as both commercial and business activities were completely paralysed following the demise of the prominent traditional ruler, the 46th Deji of Akureland, Oba Adebiyi Adesida.

The Oba until his demise Sunday morning was the Chairman of the state Council of Chiefs.

His palace was turned into a Mecca of sort, yesterday as people both low and high in the state trooped in their hundreds to pay their last respects as his body lay- in- state.

Oba Adesida was made to seat

on his throne dressed in his royal regalia with horse whip and the beaded crown on his head.

As the people passed-by, they greeted him while an aide who stood by him responded on behalf of the late Oba. People waited for hours to have glimpse of their traditional ruler who reigned for just three years and three months.

The late Oba Adesida's reign was the shortest in the history of the Akure dynasty.

All the shops across the Akure metropolis were closed in response to the demise of the Oba. Reports said that all the shops would remain closed for seven days according to the tradition.

Meanwhile, the traditional rites called Ijo Akure began yesterday at the Palace of the Asamo, one of the kingmakers.

This according to sources within the palace would equally last for seven days.

The next traditional ruler of the town now moves to the Osupa Ruling House.

Oba Adesida was from the Ojijigogun Ruling House.

Meantime, Governor Babatunde Fashola of Lagos State has described the death of Deji of Akure Kingdom, Oba Adebiyi Adesida, as very sad and shocking.

The governor, in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Mr. Hakeem Bello said the death

came barely a fortnight after attending the marriage ceremony of the respected monarch's son in Lagos, adding, “the news of Oba Adesida's demise came as a complete shock.”

Also, former Governor of Ekiti State, Chief Segun Oni described the death of Oba Adebiyi Adegboye Adesida, as shocking and devastating, saying, "It never for once occurred to me that we will lose Kabiyesi this soon.

"Those of us who knew Oba Adesida as our Egbon cannot, but be grieved at the loss of such a role model and national figure, who contributed immensely to the development of Ondo State in particular and Nigeria in general.

Hearing starts in N860m alleged fraud case against Fayose

BY GBENGA ARIYIBI

ADO EKITI — THE substantive suit instituted by Economic and Financial Crime Commission, EFCC, against the former governor of the state, Mr. Ayo Fayose over the allegation of diverting N860million earmarked for the construction of poultry project in all the 16 local government areas of the state while he was in government between 2004 and 2006, commenced yesterday.

When the case came up for hearing before Justice Adamu Hobon at a Federal High Court in Ado Ado Ekiti, prosecution counsel, Mr. Adebisi Adeniyi presented the documents through his principal witness, Mr. Abubakar Madaki.

According to the prosecutor, the Chairman, Biological Concept Ltd, Mr. Gbenga James and his friend, Mr. Wale Arowokole had during investigations revealed that the funds meant for Ekiti Poultry Projects were actually diverted.

The documents, according to him, included a voluntary statement of the accused person written in his own hand-writing; petitions, documents containing the names of the alleged beneficiaries, the public relations expenditure, recovered from Ekiti State government during investigation.

Others according to him, include: cheque stubs, (the remaining leaflets of cheques for record-keeping), reports from Federal Ministry of Works, acknowledgment letter confirming the receipt of 50,000 dollars by former deputy Governor, Mrs. Abiodun Olujimi.

Choice of governorship candidate tears Ogun LP apart

z As Mimiko, Daniel hold secret meeting

BY DAUD OLATUNJI

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BEOKUTA — MOVES to unseat Ogun State governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun in 2015 has been intensified as Ondo State governor, Olusegun Mimiko and ex-governor of Ogun State, Otunba Gbenga Daniel held a marathon secret meeting even as the party under which they operate, the Labour Party, LP, seems torn apart over the choice of governorship candidate ahead of 2015 election.

Vanguard gathered that, both Mimiko and Daniel held a closed door meeting, weekend, where the choice of governorship candidate who will give the incumbent governor a good fight in the coming election was analysed.

A source who was part of the meeting presided over by Mimiko, but, pleaded anonymity, told Vanguard that, the meeting had in attendance two governorship aspirants, a member of House of Representatives from Ipokia/Yewa South Federal constituency, Abiodun Akinlade and former governorship candidate of the People's Party of Nigeria, PPN, in 2011, Gboyega Isiaka.

Oyo First Lady hosts Total Praise programme

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HE FIRST Lady of Oyo State, Mrs. Florence Abiola-Ajimobi (JP) will on Saturday, host the bi-monthly Women Intercessory Network, WIN, Total Praise programme, with the theme, 'Let the People Praise Thee, O God!' It will hold at the Government House arcade, Agodi, Ibadan between 3p.m. and 6p.m.

Ondo NURTW blames politicians for crisis

BY DAYO JOHNSON

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KURE — THE crisisridden National Union of Road Transport Workers, NURTW, in Ondo State, yesterday, accused politicians in the state for fuelling crisis in the union.

It, however, read riot act to its members over thuggery and violence and vowed to deal with culprits.

The embattled Chairman of the union in the state, Chief Oladutele Obayoriade, said this in Akure during a prayer session held following his reinstatement by the national leadership of the union.

Ogun monarch cries for help

BY DAUD OLATUNJI

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BEOKUTA — THE Ologere of Ogere in Ikenne Local Government Area of Ogun State, Oba Oladele Ogunbade has cried for help from the Police and the military over the invasion of his community by cultists, robbers and pipeline vandals.

Ogere, a boundary town in Remo Division of the state, located on Lagos-Ibadan express road has recorded series of vandalism, robberies and cultists' activities.

The monarch, while speaking yesterday, in his palace in Ogere to herald his 30th anniversary on the throne, raised the alarm that some of the perpetrators of the devilish acts, have camped in a place near the town.

12—Vanguard, TUESDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2013

Minister’s threat to sack ASUU members uncalled for —REP zIt’s wicked —CSN

BY SIMON EBEGBULEM & GABRIEL ENOGHOLASE

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ENIN—MINORITY Chief Whip in the House of Representatives, Mr. Samson Osagie, has described the recent threat by the Supervising Minister of Education, Mr. Nyeson Wike, to sack members of the Academic Staff Union of Universities, ASUU, as “uncalled for.”

This came as a group, Coalition to Save Nigeria, CSN, said it was wicked for the Federal Government to issue ultimatum to ASUU when the remains of the late former President of the union, Professor Festus Iyayi, were yet to be buried.

Osagie, who spoke with journalists in Benin, said the utterances by the Minister were capable of worsening the crisis.

He also insisted that the recent development in the polity would not threaten the current leadership in the House of Representatives.

He said: “It is unfortunate that our universities have to be shut down for this long period of time. It is not healthy for our educational system and it is going to have a monumental impact on our education as a country. I also do not expect the kind of threat that the Minister of Education is carrying out but at the same time we must all put the interest of this country above every other interest. I just

hope that they should work out these issues as quickly as possible. Both sides have their shortcomings but I believe we must do things in order to ensure that our students are back at school because they have almost forgotten that they are students in the universities and that is not healthy for us “I am quite disappointed at the way things are going and I pray earnestly because all our children are feeling the impact. The recent from the minister of education is uncalled for and I believe that it only has the capacity to worsen the situation.

“But at the same time I also

believe that ASUU should restrategize so that it can devise other means of settling industrial disputes. I accept their arguments of better funding for our universities because they are in comatose, but I believe that strikes are not the only legitimate way to demand for change and that it is the right time to re-strategize.”

Resumption order is wicked —CSN

In a statement, the National Coordinator of CSN, Dr Philip Ugbodaga, said: “ We consider this resumption order to be wicked, callous, reckless and extremely un-

caring. I am aware that the burial ceremonies for the late Iyayi commences about the same period. So the reported resumption order is carefully calculated to embarrass ASUU members, cow them to submission and prevent them from paying their last respect to a hero of the Nigerian revolutionary struggle.

“The greatest disservice to Iyayi would be this contemplated Federal Governments’ whimsical manipulation of his unfortunate demise to deal a blow on ASUU’s resolve to settle, once and for all, the problems in the ivory tower that have remained unresolved for several decades.”

From left: Governor Seriake Dickson of Bayelsa State; President Goodluck Jonathan; Chairman PDP Bayelsa, Col. Sam Inokoba (rtd) and PDP Deputy National Chairman, Uche Secondus, at the Bayelsa State PDP Caucus meeting in Yenagoa, weekend.

JTF destroys 134 illegal oil refining camps in Bayelsa

BY SAMUEL OYADONGHA

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ENAGOA—SOLDIERS attached to the Joint Task Force, code named Operation Pulo Shield, have destroyed 134 illegal oil refining camps in the creeks of Bayelsa State in the ongoing campaign against oil theft in the region.

The Coordinator, Joint Media Centre of the JTF, Col. Onyema Nwachukwu, yesterday, in Yenagoa, said the camps were uncovered and destroyed during a week-long anti-oil theft operation launched by operatives of the task force in the deep swamp of the state.

He said: “In Bayelsa State, anti-oil theft patrol team of 343 Regiment operating in the Sector 2 area of responsibility of the JTF, has uncovered and cracked down on 134 illegal crude oil distillation camps.

The patrol team also scuttled 34 Cotonou boats, 36 pumping

machines and 12 illegal oil dumps used by oil thieves in Igbomatoru, Oyeregbene, Lasukugbene, Mbikiba and Ewesusho communities, in Southern Ijaw, Brass and Nembe Local Government Areas of Bayelsa State. ”Some of the camps were being regenerated by the oil

thieves before the crackdown.

A locally fabricated steel barge containing product suspected to be illegally distilled Automated Gas Oil, AGO, was also intercepted by the patrol team around Nembe 2 flow station. The barge has been towed to Nembe 1 flow station for safe custody.”

Col Nwachukwu also disclosed that in Rivers State, a wooden barge and two wooden boats conveying unascertained quantity of adulterated AGO were rounded up by troops of 29 Battalion patrolling the water ways of AlakriOkirika axis in Okirika Local Government Area.

Discovery Airways to start operations this month

BY KENNETH EHIGIATOR

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NEW entrant to commercial airlines business in Nigeria, DiscoveryAir, will start operations this month.

Consequently, the airline took delivery of its first aircraft, Boeing 737-300, even as it awaits delivery of two others next month.

Managing Director of the airline, Captain Abdulsalami Mohammed, said in Lagos that with the arrival of the aircraft

and the airline’s preparedness to fully complete the AOC’s certification processes, Discovery Airways was now closer to commencing domestic commercial operations in a matter of days.

He said Discovery Airways was set up about a year ago with the aim of providing the Nigerian travelers very good customer service, and also fill the gap of shortage of commercial aircraft in the country.

He said: “We are going to commence operations with

three modern aircraft and progressively grow our fleet size to service our robust expansion plan that is based on our due diligence of the market.

“We have in the last one year taken time to study the successes of global legacy airlines and have adopted strategies to suit Nigerian operations.”

Captain Mohammed said the short lifespan of most Nigerian airlines could be attributed to lack of proper planning as well as the harsh and non-conducive business environment.

Sapele Athletic Club’s centenary celebration ends with promises

BY GODWIN OGHRE & AKPOKONA OMAFUARE

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APELE—ACTIVITIES marking the centenary celebration of Nigeria’s oldest private club, Sapele Athletic Club, have ended with a promise by the leaders club to turn it into a model among leading clubs in the country.

Both past and current leaders of the club, at the grand finale of the centenary celebration, resolved to ensure that the club henceforth gained prominence and is ranked among major clubs in Nigeria, such as Ikoyi Club in Lagos.

Towards this end, the old club building will be demolished to be replaced with a modern edifice with a first class swimming pool, a kitchen and a prestigious golf course, among others facilities.

President of the club, Mr. Mike Eboh, in his remark at the fund raising dinner to round off the celebration, urged members and well meaning members of the public to donate towards the modernization of the 100 years old club.

Mr Eboh, who eulogized the Orodje of Okpe kingdom, Orhue I, and the governor of Delta State, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan, for the role they played in the centenary celebration, assured the people of Sapele that the tenets and essence of the club would be sustained and that the club would soon become a tourist center.

Chairman of the centenary planning committee, Chief Faith Gbagi, commended members of the planning committee for the success of the celebration especially surpassing the monetary target given to the committee.

According to Chief Gbagi, the centenary committee was mandated to generate N200 million. He said, however, that at the end of celebration, the committee generated over N300 million.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2013—13

G5 exit brightens Jonathan’s chances —NWOKO

Amaechi wants Okonjo-Iweala, Ochekpe, to explain withholding of World Bank, ADB loans

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BY JIMITOTA ONOYUME

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ORT HARCOURT— GOVERNOR Chibuike Amaechi of Rivers State, has appealed to the House of Representatives to summon the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mrs Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala and her counterpart in the Ministry of Water Resources, Stella Ochekpe, to explain why the government has continued to withhold the World Bank and African Development Bank, ADB, loans approved by the National Assembly to provide potable drinking water for people of the state.

The governor, who made the appeal yesterday when the House Committee on Water Resources and the Executive Directors, Niger Delta Basin Development Authority, paid him a courtesy visit at Government House, Port Harcourt, said residents of the state were dying from the lack of potable water, saying he could not provide all families in the state with bottled water for consumption.

Uduaghan, UNIBEN VC, to grace Delta NUJ Press Week

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ICE Chancellor of the University of Benin, professor Osayuki Oshodin will deliver a lecture as guest speaker at the opening ceremony of the 2013 press week of the Nigeria Union of journalists, NUJ, Delta State council, scheduled for December 17 in Asaba .

Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan, who is the special guest of honour, is expected to declare the press week open with the state deputy governor, Professor Amos Utuama as guest of honour while the Asagba of Asaba, Obi Professor Chike Edozien is the royal father of the day .

CONDOLENCE VISIT: Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan of Delta State (middle); his Deputy, Prof. Amos Utuama (left), during a condolence visit by the governor to Chief Ighoyota Amori (right), over the death of his mother at Mosoga in Ethiope West LG, weekend.

Imoke suspends 7 commissioners, 13 special advisers

BY EMMANUEL UNA

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OVERNOR Liyel Imoke of Cross River State, yesterday, suspended indefinitely, seven commissioners and 13 special advisers from the State Executive Council, SEC, for failing to participate in activities marking World AIDS Day. The governor directed the affected commissioners and special advisers to hand over all government documents and property in their possession to their permanent secretaries.

A statement by the Secretary to the State Government, Mr. Michael Aniah, said the governor had approved the suspension of the affected commissioners and special advisers for not honouring a state function.

He said only the governor and a few aides attended the World AIDS Day celebration.

The affected commissioners

are Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Attah Ochinke; Commissioner for Finance, Etim Caifas; Commissioner for Women Affairs, Mrs. Edak Iwuchukwu; Commissioner for Social Development, Mrs. Patricia Endeley; Commissioner for Environment, Dr. Sandy Onor; Commissioner for Water Resources, Mr. Elemi Etowa; and Commissioner for Agriculture, Mr. James Aniyom.

Special advisers suspended include Mr. Wilfred Usani, (Tourism Development); Eyo Okpo-Ene (Religious Affairs); Fabian Okpa (Special Duties); Gerald Adah (Investment Promotion); Effiong Bassey (Mineral Resources); Fred Osim (Political and Legislative Affairs) and Mark Obi (Legal Adviser).

Others are Francisca Nkoyo Effiom (Debt Management);

Mrs Johnson Ebokpo (NGOs); Odo Effiong (Information and Telecommunication Technology); Prof. Temple Edim (Strategic Planning and Development); Eja Dons (Projects Monitoring and Evaluation) and Ntufam Odo Oji (Forestry and Biodiversity).

News of the suspension of the commissioners and special advisers yesterday evening took residents of Calabar by surprise as nobody expected it, even as Governor Imoke had continued to say there was no need for any cabinet shake-up as that would mean starting afresh in t h e learning and execution of government p r o grammes a n d projects.

WAR AGAINST TERRORISM: CNS calls for synergy among security outfits

BY AKPOKONA OMAFUAIRE

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ARRI—THE Chief of Naval Staff, CNS, Vice Admiral Dele Joseph Ezeoba, has called for synergy among all security outfits, if the war against terrorism must be won, saying terrorism had become a threat to the nation and must be nipped in the bud.

The CNS made the call at the commissioning of the Nigerian Navy Air Station in Effurun, Delta State.

He explained that the establishment of the Na-

val Air Station in Delta State was necessary, due to the peculiar security nature of the Niger Delta, saying: “We have always wanted to expand and create more capacity, particularly as it pertains to the Niger Delta area with its challenges that make it germane for us to increase our robust operational capabilities which will help us to curb the illegalities that have become synonymous with this part of the country, particularly with crude oil theft and p i p e l i n e vandalism. With this air base that has been estab-

lished here today, we will have the capacity for quick response to threat and all the challenges mitigating against the efficient use of our waterways in and around the Niger Delta.”

MEMBER of President Goodluck Jonathan’s campaign team, Prince Ned Nwoko, has assured Nigerians that the exit of the five governors who were elected on the platform of People’s Democratic Party, PDP, will brighten the chances of the President in emerging as the flag bearer of the party in 2015.

Prince Nwoko, who is a member of the financial committee of the campaign team told Vanguard that “with the exit of the five governors, it is evident that the President has not only secured an unopposed PDP nomination but his campaign for re-election has commenced indeed.”

Vanguard learnt that arrangements have reached an advanced stage for the formal launch of the President’s campaign activities which will start in Owerri, Imo State .

Nwoko, said the presidential campaign team made its first outing with the visit to Owerri where it had gone to lay the ground work for the commencement of the presidential campaign.

14—Vanguard, TUESDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2013

INEC presents certificate of return to Obiano

BY VINCENT UJUMADU

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WKA—THE governor-elect of Anambra State, Chief Willie Obiano, and his deputy, Dr. Nkem Okeke, were yesterday presented with certificate of return by INEC national commissioner, Chief Lawrence Nworuku.

Obiano won the election on the platform of APGA. Speaking during the ceremony, which was attended by Governor Peter Obi, National Chairman of APGA,Chief Victor Umeh, and other top government officials, the National INEC Commissioner,Chief L a w r e n c e Nworuku,thanked the people of Anambra State for conducting themselves in orderly manner during the election.

Handing over the certificate to Obiano, Nworuku said Anambra is a great state, which shamed prophets of doom who had falsely predicted that there will be violence and crisis during the election.

Enugu PDP chieftain decamps to APC

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BY TONY EDIKE

NUGU—A chieftain of Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in Enugu State, Dr. Sam Onyishi, has dumped his party for the All Progressives Congress, APC, to contest the 2015 governorship election in the state.

Onyishi, who is the Managing Director of Peace Mass Transit Limited, was welcomed into the APC fold at a meeting of stakeholders of the party held last weekend in Enugu.

Although the meeting was held behind closed doors, sources said Dr. Onyishi used the opportunity to declare his interest to vie for the governorship of Enugu State which has been zoned to Enugu North (Nsukka zone).

ALLEGED N458M SCAM: EFCC clears ex-Imo dep gov, Agbaso

BY DAPOAKINREFON AGOS—THE Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, has cleared the impeached deputy governor of Imo State, Mr. Jude Agbaso of alleged N458 million bribery for which he was removed from office.

In a statement by its Director of Operations, Mr. Olaolu Adegbite, the EFCC said though the former deputy governor had been exonerated, following its findings, the commission’s legal department was, however, working on the case file with a view to taking appropriate legal action.

The commission disclosed that in the cause of its investigation, Mr. Dina, the contractor that allegedly gave him bribe in his statement to the commission on March 28, 2013, revealed that he never gave any money to Agbaso or any other official of the state government over the contracts, which were yet to be fully executed as at the last visit of its officers in April 2013.

Mr. Agbaso had petitioned the EFCC to investigate the Managing Director of J-PROS, Mr. Joseph Dina.

In its report, the commission stated: “Road contracts for the sum of one and a half billion Naira awarded to J-PROS International Nig. Ltd was alleged to have engendered fraudulent bribe payments of N458 million by Managing Director of J-PROS, one Joseph Dina, to you as the then deputy governor and Commissioner for Works.

“In furtherance to the investigation, evidence adduced from interview of key officials of Imo State Government and other important witnesses, as well as documents obtained from relevant

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financial institutions confirmed that N1,305000,000 was paid to J-PROS to execute the Warehouse Orlu road Junction, Odunze street, Aba road and Old Nekede road projects within Owerri metropolis before mobilisation to the sites.

“The total sum of $5,538,830

DONATION: From left: Head, Foods, Beverage & Agriculture, Taiwo Joda, MD/CEO, Fidelity Bank Plc, Reginald Ihejiahi, Dame Emmanuella Fasola, First Lady, Lagos State and Proprietress, Heart of Gold Children’s Hospice, Mrs. Laja Adedoyin, at the presentation of physiotherapy equipment donated by staff of Fidelity Bank to the Heart of Gold Children’s Hospice, Surulere. Lagos, yesterday.

38-yr-old bizman kidnapped in Ebonyi

BY PETER OKUTU B A K A L I K I — A businessman, Mr. Chimezie Oti Benson, 38, from Ndigbuka, Ihie, Ishiagu in Ivo Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, was last weekend kidnapped by unknown gunmen at Eke Market square in the community.

The businessman, who deals in hot drinks and other food items, was kidnapped around 7:30pm on the fateful day.

Confirming the incident, the State Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Chris Anyanwu, disclosed that information gathered from one Master Obinna Okafor and Godswill (workers of the victim) revealed that the kidnappers invaded the victims’ shop inside the market with sophisticated weapons.

He stated that the workers of the victim further revealed that the two kidnappers shot sporadically into the air to disperse customers and traders who were still transacting their businesses in the area, dragged the victim into a waiting vehicle and zoomed off.

According to command’s spokesman, the statement of the boys did not reveal the identity of the vehicle their master was taken away in.

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was found to have been remitted to the personal accounts of Dina in Dubai and Lebanon. There is no single evidence so far that suggested that you benefitted from the funds.”

It will be recalled that the State House of Assembly, in

March 2013, sacked Agbaso, who was the Imo State Deputy Governor after a seven-man panel headed by Justice G.C. Ihekire, concluded its investigation.

Agbaso was accused of allegedly taking N458m bribe from a Lebanese firm, J-PROS, in charge of the rehabilitation of the Sam Mbakwe Road in Owerri, the state capital.

He was removed from office after 26 out of 27 lawmakers voted for his impeachment.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2013—15

SWF: Govs vow to expose FG over excess crude funds’ depletion zAs S’Court hears suit March 24

BY IKECHUKWU NNOCHIRI

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BUJA—GOVERNORS of the 36 states of the federation, yesterday, vowed to expose how the Federal Government had continued to deplete funds accruing from the proceeds of crude oil sales, petroleum profit tax and oil royalties, otherwise classified as excess crude proceeds.

This was even as a seven-man panel of the Supreme Court, yesterday, fixed March 24 to commence hearing on a suit seeking to stop the Federal Government from transferring $1 billion from the Excess Crude Account, to a new account to be known as “Sovereign Wealth Fund,” SWF. The apex court panel, which was led by Justice Walter Onnoghen, ordered the governors and the Federal Government to ensure that they filed and exchanged their legal arguments before the adjourned date.

It will be recalled that the Federal Government had previously begged the Supreme Court to suspend hearing on the matter and allow it to explore the possibilities of reaching a compromise with the governors who, it said, had always benefited from the excess crude proceeds.

The Federal Government had, through its lead counsel, Mr. Austin Alegeh, SAN, accused the governors of mischief, insisting that they equally took part in the deliberation of the National Economic Council where the decision to transfer the $1 billion from the Excess Crude Account to the SWF was taken.

It stressed that the states had been receiving their shares from the money, saying their decision to frustrate the planned creation of the SWF was borne out of insincerity.

While asking the apex court to refuse the application by the governors to stop it from transferring $1 billion from the SWF, the government said it would run into problem should the application be granted as prayed by the governors.

Besides, the Federal

Government contended that the day-to-day running of the nation’s economy would be put in danger if the application was acceded to.

The governors, had in a suit filed before the apex court since October 23, 2011, sought an order declaring the planned creation of the “Sovereign Wealth Fund” as illegal and unconstitutional.

They are praying the court to issue an order to the effect that all sums standing to the credit of

the said “Excess Crude Account” (or any account replacing same by any name howsoever) be paid into court or otherwise secured as the court might deem fit, pending the hearing and determination of the substantive suit.

The governors maintained that unless the order of injunction was granted, the Federal Government would continue to disregard, disrespect and ignore the pending suits before the Supreme Court.

VISIT: From left: Governor Godswill Akpabio of Akwa Ibom State, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Senator Bala Mohammed and Governor Martin Elechi of Ebonyi State, during a courtesy visit by the governors to the minister in Abuja, yesterday.

Customs’ recruitment scam: ICPC arrests more suspects

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BY CALEB AYANSINA

BUJA—THE Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission, ICPC, yesterday, revealed that it had made more arrests in connection with the recruitment scandal into the Nigeria Customs Service.

The commission said that investigation was still ongoing, but called on job seekers to beware of individuals or agents who claimed to be well connected to ppeople in high places to defraud them of their hard earned money.

The commission in a statement

by Resident Consultant (Media and Events), Folu Olamiti, threatened to prosecute whoever was caught taking or offering money or gratification in any form to secure employment.

The statement read: “ICPC has received numerous petitions relating to an ongoing internet scam wherein gullible applicants are paying money for recruitment and bogus interviews into Nigeria Customs Service.

“It is sad to note that despite a highly publicized joint ICPC/ Nigeria Customs Service early this year announcing several arrests over internet-based recruitment scams, pranksters are still at work preying on the gullible few who also probably believe in subverting the recruitment process by paying monies for recruitment.

“Members of the public should note that investigation is ongoing and further arrests have been effected. Notice is hereby given that no government Ministry, Department or Agency requests for payment of money into private accounts to secure employment.

“Therefore, persons who offer money, or gratification in any

form in order, to facilitate employment during real or fake government recruitment exercises, are as culpable as those soliciting or receiving such monies or gratification by way of scams or bribes.

“No matter how long it takes such applicants who succeed in getting appointment will be found out and prosecuted.”

NDDC ‘ll establish power plant for South South, says Ewa-Henshaw

BY JOHNBOSCO

AGBAKWURU & JOSEPH ERUNKE B U J A — CHAIRMANSHIP nominee for Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, Senator Bassey EwaHenshaw, yesterday, told the Senate that if confirmed, one of the first projects he would embark upon would be the establishment of a power plant to generate

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electricity for the entire Niger Delta.

This is even as he attributed the problems confronting the commission since establishment in 2002 to waste of resources as well as inefficiency in the management of the commission’s affairs by its handlers.

Ewa-Henshaw, who spoke while answering questions from members of the Senate

Committee on Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, during the committee’s screening of nominees for the NDDC Board, noted that adequate power supply was needed in the South South geopolitical region to accelerate development in the area.

The names of the nominees were sent to the Senate for confirmation by President Goodluck Jonathan on November 20.

FG commits N90bn to Enugu-PH dual carriageway

BY FAVOUR NNABUGWU

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BUJA—THE Federal Government has committed N90.3 billion to the rehabilitation and reconstruction of the 106.5km EnuguPortharcourt dual carriageway.

Minister of Works, Mike Onolememen, made this known while flagging off commencement of construction work on the road at Abia Towers and Leru in Abia State, weekend.

Onolememen said that given the high economic value of the road to the people of Nigeria, especially those in the South East and SouthSouth geopolitical zones of the country, the Federal Government had been carrying out palliative maintenance on the road to make it motorable before eventually embarking on the reconstruction.

He said the project was approved by the Federal Executive Council on Wednesday, August 21, 2013, adding that when completed, the project would substantially improve the movement of the people, goods and services in the area.

NULGE names Yakmut secretarygeneral

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HE ASSOCIATION of Local Governments of Nigeria, ALGON, yesterday named Alhaji Shittu Yakmut its new secretary general.

A statement by the national publicity secretary of the association, Dr. Danladi Etsu Zhin, said the appointment was approved at the association’s national working committee meeting last Friday.

The new secretary general who hails from Mangu LGA of Plateau State is an alumnus of the University of Jos, the Nigeria Institute of Journalism, Lagos and the London School of Management.

He was at one time the General Manager of Plateau State Television Corporation, special assistant to the Minister of State for Information and Communication as well as Chief Press Secretary of the Nigerian Mining Corporation, among others.

16—Vanguard, TUESDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2013

PDP’ll not miss ‘rebel’ govs —TUKUR

BY HENRY UMORU

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ANNIVERSARY: From left: Onitire of Itire, Oba Lateef Dauda, President, Christ Apostolic Mission Church, Pastor Soji Ajayi and chairman of the occasion, Senator Ganiyu Solomon, during the 60th anniversary of the church in Lagos.

BUJA—NATIONAL chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Alhaji Bamanga Tukur, said, yesterday, that the party will not miss the five governors and other members of the party who defected last Tuesday to the opposition, All Progressives Congress, APC. According to him, President Goodluck

Jonathan will be in Aso Villa in 2015. Tukur also said that the action would be their greatest political regret.

It will be recalled that five out of the G7 Governors in the defunct splinter group of the Alhaji Baraje-led PDP, governors Aliyu Wammako of Sokoto state; Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso of Kano; Chibuike Amaechi of Rivers; Ahmed Abdulfatah of Kwara

State and Murtala Nyako of Adamawa State, dumped the PDP, for APC, even as Babangida Aliyu of Niger and Sule Lamido of Jigawa remained in the PDP. Speaking yesterday, at the PDP national secretariat when Sokoto State chapter of the party paid him and members of the PDP National Working Committee, NWC, a courtesy call, Tukur advised party members not to entertain any fear in the 2015 presidential election.

Tukur said that the opposition party where the governors and their supporters moved to was not a bed of roses.

Tukur said: “ I assure you that there is no need to entertain any fears.

President Goodluck Jonathan will still be in Aso Rock come 2015. We know that Sokoto State is behind you. When the Caliphate is behind you, there is no shaking. PDP is our party, a party of choice.

“People can defect. It is their right, but very soon they will find out that it is not all bed of roses.They will soon come to embrace of PDP again.

“Sometimes when people had eaten and are satisfied, you know what they do? They will tell themselves, let’s try another place to see whether there is a better option.

“We have experienced it before, it is not new.

Many of them left PDP before, but my advice is that people should not forget that no matter what they do, if they want to sit and learn, they should sit on their bottom.

“Our party is inclusive, and I can reassure you that you have earned our respect and we will accord everyone of same.”

Speaking earlier, the leader of the Sokoto State PDP delegation, a former Minister of Communications, Alhaji Arzika Tambuwal urged the NWC members to “immediately constitute a caretaker committee to organise congresses for the election of new party executives at all levels in Sokoto State.”

Vanguard, TUESDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2013 — 17

I WAS born on 12th April, 1952. I died twenty-years ago on 26th December, 1993. I was killed by armed-robbers on the way from Murtala Mohammed International Airport, Lagos.

My wife was coming back from a trip to the United States and I went to the airport with six-year-old Femi-Kevin to meet her. She had two major pieces of luggage. I put one in the boot and the other in the back-seat of our car. It was around seven-thirty in the evening, and we set out for home.

Soon, a car overtook us with some people who were shouting at us for some inexplicable reason. I paid little attention to them. It is commonplace in Lagos for some driver to be upset with you for some reason or the other. But no sooner had they overtaken us than they swerved and blocked the road with their car. Immediately, some men jumped out menacingly.

Dicing with death From that moment, everything became surreal.

Indeed, everything switched to slow-motion. I slammed on the brakes and the car stopped. I switched to reversegear and the car moved back.

Our assailants were banking on the element of surprise, but my prompt reactions upstaged them. Having reversed the car, I again brought it to a stop.

In front of us on the road were four armed men.

I had always foolishly believed in myself. I regarded

The day of my death gear and went ahead to execute my plan; slamming hard on the accelerator. The man to my extreme right literally had to jump out of the road because I aimed the car directly at him. I managed to avoid their car and made a dash for it. But before I could congratulate myself on turning the tables against our abductors, my plans went disastrously wrong.

A lamppost appeared suddenly out of nowhere, and I slammed headlong into it.

Mystery voice I have been back on that road so many times since then and have wondered why I did not see that lamppost. But I did not. Once I hit the lamppost, I was trapped like a caged animal. Once I hit the lamppost, all my brilliantlyexecuted escape plans turned out to be reckless. Once I hit the lamppost, I knew that I was a dead man. I looked out the window to see the man I nearly ran down now marching

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The bullet pierced the body of the car, came out on the inside and killed me; it is necessary to put it graphically; the bullet hit me and I bled to death right there on the roadside

myself as a problem-solver.

True, this was a rather bigger problem than I had had to deal with before.

This particular one was a question of life and death. But it was a problem nevertheless.

Therefore, I decided to try and address it like any other problem. First; I needed to make a quick decision. I had to decide whether to continue to reverse the car; or go forward or just surrender.

I seemed to have all the time in the world to make this splitsecond decision. Finally, I decided on a foolhardy course of “no retreat: no surrender.”

I made up my mind to go forward at top speed and try to avoid their car, which was biased to the left side of the road. I also resolved that if the man to my extreme right did not get out of the way, I would run him over with my car.

I put the car back into the first

this discovery was enough to atone for their inability to retrieve the luggage from the boot.

It was time to go. The man who had shot at me re-cocked his gun. It was one of those revolvers that you snap at the top in order to re-load. He pointed it at me and barked: “Lie down with your face to the ground.” I don’t know where I got the courage from, but I refused. I told him calmly: “You can take whatever you want and go, but I am not going to lie down.” The man stared at me.

His look spoke eloquently. It said: “Don’t you know that I have the power to shoot you dead right now?”

I was already dead, so I was not moved. For a moment, we stood staring at one another defiantly, with him pointing the gun directly at my face. I knew he would shoot again and could not care less. But then suddenly, he changed his mind and walked away.

Then they all jumped into their car and drove off.

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towards me. I knew there could only be one thing on his mind: revenge.

But before I could panic, something dramatic happened. I heard a voice. It was not a booming voice. It was a “still small voice.” It was authoritative and calm. It spoke with quiet reassurance.

“Femi,” it said, “nothing is going to happen to you here.”

Before I could even think about what that meant, the offended armed-robber drew near. Again, I saw everything in slow motion. Grimacing, he pointed his gun at me and pulled the trigger. I saw a flash of light and the glass at my side of the door came crashing down. The bullet pierced the body of the car, came out on the inside and killed me. It is necessary to put it graphically. The bullet hit me and I bled to death right there on the roadside.

*Some arms recovered from robbers during a police raid Conversations morgue

in

the

Thereafter, I was no longer afraid of our assailants. As a matter of fact, I became indifferent to them. I seemed to be abstracted from the entire incident, and to be like someone watching an unfolding drama from the sidelines. And yet I knew that however the matter was resolved, my life would never be the same again.

Don’t ask me why, but I opened the door and decided to come out of the car. Only then did I realise that there was something wrong with my left leg. The bullet came out of the inside of the car and lodged itself in my leg, but I never actually felt it enter my body.

As I came out of the car, the aggrieved armed-robber who had shot at me slapped me.

“Why were you driving like that?” he demanded. “Please don’t be offended,” I pleaded.

“I was only trying to get away from you as best as I could.”

While all this was going on, the young man was rifling through my pockets. He was removing my watch from my wrist. Another man was removing the suitcase from the backseat of the car and loading it into the boot of their car.

And then I heard that implausible voice once again, defiantly oblivious to the situation. “Femi,” it repeated, “nothing is going to happen to you here.”

I was not really paying much attention. My whole life suddenly flashed through my mind. So this is how it all ends, I thought. I looked through the window of the car and saw my wife clutching

little Femi-Kevin to her breast.

It was like seeing the past in the present. So at such an early age this woman became a widow, I thought.

I noticed she was praying. I could see her lips moving silently. I did not believe in prayer and I never prayed. As far as I was concerned, the fact that she was praying meant she was highly distressed. So I leaned through the window to reassure her. But the only reassurance I could give was the ludicrous one I had been given. So I said to her: “Karen, nothing is going to happen to us here.”

Dead and buried But something seemed to be happening. One of the armed-robbers could not open the boot. Neither could I give him the key because it was jammed in the ignition as a result of my hitting the lamppost with the car. One simple fact completely escaped me. Our abductors also seemed oblivious to it.

You could open the boot by pressing a latch on the floor of the driver’s side of the car.

I could tell that, with the frustration of being unable to dislodge the key from the ignition, the temperature of the entire incident was rising. But then, one of them opened the glove compartment and saw some money I had miraculously forgotten there.

It so happened that it was a sizeable amount.

That discovery brought down the heightened temperature. The man who discovered it was excited. “Look what I found,” he shouted gleefully to his partners-in-crime. Somehow,

My resurrection There is nothing like death to make a man to yearn for salvation. I was a man falling down a cliff, looking for something to hold on to. Then suddenly a mystery man arrived. But instead of throwing me a rope, he threw me a thread. “Catch this,” he said, “and I will pull you up.”

I knew certainly that a thread could not hold my weight. But it was really no time to argue.

If I had other options, maybe I might have ignored the thread. But as it was, the thread was the only solution available, even if it was absolutely nonsensical. So I grabbed the thread and unbelievably, the thread; a thread, held my weight.

Once I held on to this slim thread of hope, I was filled with an incredible feeling of peace in the middle of an armed-robbery attack, even with a bullet lodged in my left leg. But once the robbers left, I came back to my senses. The peace lifted and I was filled with fear. Clearly, I needed immediate medical attention.

My wife jumped out of the car and ran down the road shouting for help. I looked down and realised that my trouser-leg, my sock and shoe were completely soaked with blood. So I said to myself: “Well, you escaped that one.

But now you are going to bleed to death right here in the middle of this road.”

But immediately that thought came into my head, the voice I had heard earlier came back to counter it. It was just as calm and commanding as before. It was no-nonsense and conclusive: “Femi,” it said categorically, “there is nothing wrong with your leg.”

18 Vanguard, TUESDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2013 Professor Attahiru Jega’s Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has continued to chalk up questionable competence in every election its has conducted in the country in its over three years of existence. It set an ugly tone in the 2011 general elections when it became the first electoral regime to cancel a general election midway and start all over again. But because Jega, who was highly touted as a credible person for the job of INEC Chair was still new on the job, Nigerians were willing to forget that show of shame.

Since then, elections have been held in states like Ondo and Edo. In each case, the old bedevilling factors that make Nigerian election nototrious for failure to meet basic standards of credibility continued to shadow the performances of Jega and his Commission.

The just-concluded governorship elections in Anambra State provided yet another platform to test-run the competence of INEC, but alas! Rather than improving on the Edo and Ondo exercises, the elections fell way below the expectations of many stakeholders, such as a cross section of the political

Towards credible elections in 2015 parties and their candidates, local and international observers and the electorate.

Though the election was generally peaceful and devoid of incidences of ballot snatching, much of its drawbacks centered on the INEC’s shoddy preparations and deployment of electoral materials, especially on November 16th 2013. It was so bad in polling stations across 16 local governments that the INEC had to reschedule to November 30th. By then, the damage had been done. Political parties such as the All Progressives Congress (APC), Labour Party (LP) and Mr Tony Nwoye, the governorship candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) boycotted it. The election was

marred by massive apathy, and less than 30% of the electorate were able to cast their votes.

We are calling on the INEC and all stakeholders to learn from the lessons of the Anambra elections and make sure that the impending governorship polls in Ekiti and Osun States are conducted above board. We table this warning, cognisant of the fact that the contests are going to be much more sensitive, given the tense religious atmosphere depicted by the style of the Governor of Osun State, Mr Rauf Aregbesola and the murders that have already presaged the election in Ekiti.

We want the two elections to be dress rehearsals for a free, fair, credible and acceptable general election in 2015. The 2015 election must be handled with extreme care.

Apart from being the year many have associated with the possible breakup of Nigeria, we also have a war on terror on our hands, as well as two rival political parties that are now almost equal in size: the PDP and the APC ready to go at it.

We cannot afford to get it wrong in 2015.

We must brace up to get it right.

OPINION

BY OTEI OHAM

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HERE is no doubt that Cross Riverians from all walks of life and indeed fans of Cross River State are eagerly looking forward to this year’s Calabar Festival, which usually begins and ends within 32 days in the month of December.

This is so because since the Festival began in 2005, there has never been a dull moment within the period, especially for fun lovers, who see the occasion as a time to relax, ease stress and explore the rich cultural and tourism potentials in the State. Not only due to tourism, but also sports and conferences of all sorts, which are now attracting uncountable number of visitors every year to the State.

Little wonder, Cross River State is today recognised in the global tourism calendar as a destination of choice and Africa’s most pleasurable home.

This year, of course, shall not be an exception as the celebration began with a tree lighting ceremony on November 30 and ends with New Year celebration on January 1 of the following year.

Within this period, features such as World AIDS Day walk, Christian musical concerts, musical talents displays, stage drama performances, novelty football match, royal dances, fitness exercises and skating competition are usually observed.

Other aspects of the celebration are poetry and essay competitions, cultural parades of local government areas, children concerts, charity golf games, Governor’s masked day, festival of arts and craft, carol night, carnival kings and queens competition, Carnival Calabar Queen contest, praise night, as well as children and adult carnival street parties.

Ahead of these street parties, carnival dry run is held three times ahead. The first and second, where all the five adult band participate, begin at the ElevenEleven Roundabout across Mary-Slessor to Marian

The many doors of 32-day Calabar festival Road, Ndidem Usang Iso Road to Efio-Ete Junction and MCC to Highway before terminating at the U. J. Esuene Stadium, Calabar.

The third dry run takes place within the second week of December. This occasion prepares band leaders and members for the actual street parties, which are being observed by no fewer than 20,000 visitors across states in the country and nations around the world.

Besides the fun, a good number of these visitors find this opportunity necessary in copying the state carnival and indeed its tourism model, while others are either coming for exchange of cultures or joining the people of the State to showcase their talents.

Whatever the reason, however, the State and its visitors have always benefitted mutually.

Again, a situation where non-Cross Riverians in some cases win laurels in aspects of the festival demonstrates further the sincerity of government in making the State an open field for everyone who wishes to participate actively and showcase his or her talents. Interestingly, the festival has helped many who did not realise their God-given abilities before now to do so.

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urthermore, opportunity is always given business owners in the State whether Cross Riverians or non-Cross Riverians to boost their income through increased sales, patronages and equal involvement in the various market villages and bonanzas within the period. All of these are done in the absence of tax variations and business restrictions of whatever kind.

Therefore, the people, irrespective of their places of origin, must show appreciation to the leadership of the State for sustaining this celebration, and ensuring its yearly viability in the world tourism market. At no time have leaders in the State, whether political or

community stayed back from participating in all parts of the celebration. It is surely an expression of the government’s political will to make governance participatory at all levels.

This should further charge everyone in the State to co-exist harmoniously with their neighbours at all times and avoid actions that could breach the peace which the State is known for.

They can further do this by always cooperating with constituted authorities in matters such as sanitation, grooming, traffic regulations and prompt and voluntary payments of taxes and other approved levies to government. Government will in turn use up these revenues in expanding infrastructures within the state, such as provision of potable water, rural roads, improved health care, security and quality education for the people.

Moreover, the people of the State remain grateful to the various companies doing businesses in the State, and others, who through corporate social responsibility, identify themselves with the laudable policies and programmes of the State Government, such as the yearly Calabar festival.

This support, which some of them give through sponsorships, is acknowledged and is seen as a complementary effort to government towards ensuring that no part of the State, and no one whether a Cross Riverian or Non-Crossriverian residing or visiting the State is denied access to good life in Cross River State, in line with a Nigerian proverb, which says: "A day of peace in times of stress is like a thousand days in paradise". And Calabar is indeed a paradise city.

•Mr Oham, a public affairs commentator, wrote from Calabar

Vanguard, TUESDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2013 — 19

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FRICAN Independent Tele vision, AIT, made lifebroadcasts of the zonal sittings of Nigeria’s Constitution Advisory Committee. I did not know they did that until callers drew my attention to it. I had just made, on behalf of the Obowu Development Association, a presentation to the Committee sitting at Umuahia. It was on Obowu people’s thoughts on the agenda and modalities for the conference. What struck the callers most, and object of their calls, was the presentation of Kolanut by Obowu people as an important document to guide the conference. Callers, from all over Nigeria, joined some that were in the hall with me to ask the same questions. The enquirers wanted clarifications on why Obowu people called kolanut ‘document’ and the relevance of kolanut, as symbol, to the constitution-making conference.

But before answering the query, it must be pointed out that Obowu submission to the Committee consisted of much more than the Kolanut Document.

Among other points, Obowu had suggested that the conference be called Independent National Constitution Conference. This name will obviate the issues raised in the debate about ‘SOVEREIGN’. It will allow the decisions of the conference to

stand, via a referendum, without interference by politicians and government. It will also assuage the canvassers for ‘sovereign conference’, who simply want conference decisions to stand without adulteration by interlopers. The fact that Nigeria already has Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, which has the power to act independently of the government, without inciting sovereignty arguments, makes this case.

Another important Obowu suggestion is that the venue of the conference be Oturkpo in Benue State. Oturkpo is a town of the minority Idoma ethnic group. It is located in Northern Nigeria, near the border with Southern Nigeria. It is a reasonably neutral territory. It is also off the focus of violent militants, and their sponsors, who might want to disrupt the conference. Oturkpo as venue will save the conference from the distraction and undue influence of Abuja wheeler-dealers. It will, as well, save cost from less exorbitant logistic expenditures.

Now, back to the kolanut queries! The first query was easier to answer. We are used to thinking of document as written piece of paper. But that is only one of the definitions. Another is: "anything serving as a representation of a person’s thinking by means of symbolic marks"(http:// en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Document).

Kolanut is a document; a sym-

The kolanut symbolises association without the chainsof-bondage; that is what proper federalism, which Nigerians aspire to, should be

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bolic mark of thinking on the nature of society. Most traditional African documentation is in the form of living emblems, like the kolanut. Emblems are ‘condensed’ books. If we, modern Africans, understand this and transcribe the many ‘symbolic marks’ our ancestors bequeathed us into verbal forms, the resulting literature; books, on African world ideas, will surprise many people and, perhaps, help change the world for the better. We owe the debt to African ancestors, duty to African posterity and responsibility to humanity, as a whole, to carry out this transcription.

The second part of the query!

What does the kolanut symbolize, that makes it relevant to constitution-making? Kolanut, as used socially in Nigeria, is a symbolic mark of social thinking and relations. Obowu people wanted the constitution framers to incorporate the thinking symbolized by the kolanut into the constitution for a better Nigeria. The history and culture of Nigerian peoples is, in contemporary times, hardly understood; even by the peoples themselves. The information might, in fact, exist in

Diezani Alison-Madueke and the burden of leadership

BY BONAVENTURE MELAH

A

LOOK at Diezani Alison- Madueke, the Minister of Petroleum Resources, would naturally provoke either a sense of admiration or that of envy. Before she came into public service, Diezani was as comely as she is today. She has a verifiable pedigree.

One does not know if Nigerians have forgotten the hell we went through trying to get petrol to fuel our cars and the agony of waiting under the scorching sun for hours before we could buy kerosene. Today, you just drive into any petrol station and within minutes you are out with your tank filled.

The same is true for those who use kerosene.

But to opposition elements and some armchair critics, no achievement in this dispensation is worth commending because to them, doing that would mean giving credit to the man they now see as their arch-enemy, President Goodluck Jonathan.

To achieve the present stability in supply and distribution of petroleum products as well as ensure uniform price regime across the country, serious reforms were introduced

by Diezani and her management team aimed at sanitising the system. This is in addition to improvement of refining capacities of both Kaduna and Warri Refineries. The Ministry also embarked on the reconnection of a total of seven pipelines in 2012 alone. They include Warri- Benin line, those of Kaduna- Suleja, Suleja- Minna, Kaduna- Gusau, Kaduna- Jos, Port Harcourt- Aba as well as Jos- Gombe lines.

Apart from supply stability, pump price is now uniformed anywhere you are in Nigeria.

In spite of the challenges of insecurity and

pipelines vandalism, Nigeria has maintained and even exceeded her 2.48million barrels per day benchmark in oil production, to the extent that in 2012, production reached its peak at 2.7million barrels per day.

The Ministry of Petroleum had embarked on aggressive laying of new pipelines spanning hundreds of kilometres for improved gas supply. This was in view of the fact that adequate gas supply is strategic to achieving government’s objective in the power sector.

Diezani has been at the forefront of the efforts to get the National Assembly pass the Petroleum Industry Bill, PIB, into law.

Every day you hear members of the National Assembly make one corruption allegation after the other against NNPC and its officials, but the PIB bill which the Minister has laid before these law-makers has a provision that would break the monopoly of NNPC and make the system more efficient and transparent. Yet the National Assembly has been foot-dragging on the passage of the PIB. Since Diezani resumed at the Ministry of Petroleum, over 250,000 high premium direct and indirect jobs have been created in the industry. The SURE Programmes being funded from the marginal increase in pump price and reductions saved from subsidy has engaged 3,000 people in each of the 36 states and the FCT bringing to a total of 110,000 jobs. The Minister has set up a Special Project Unit in her office to implement the UNEP Report on the cleaning of Ogoni land as well as developed an Active Master Plan for Environmental Reclamation and

,

BY CHIDI G OSUAGWU

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Kolanut to Nigeria's constitution advisory committee

written documents, but Nigerians ble, although its effect is quite are not the world greatest manifest.

The kolanut readers. symbolises association without If people read the colonial the chains-of-bondage. That is documents in the archives, they what proper federalism, which will find out that the Isuama Nigerians aspire to, should be.

Confederacy, of which Obowu Interestingly, the kolanut is was a part, gave the British colo- more pan-Nigerian; indeed pannialists great hell. What African, than the popular saying historians call the Isu about Yoruba growing kolanut, Movementwas finally over- Igbo praying over it and Hausa whelmed, militarily, by the chewing it suggests. In a Vanscorch-earth policy of the British guard write-up, 2012, titled in 1911. Even then, the Isuama “Kolanut: Nigeria’s Seed of remained defiant. One notes that Togetherness”, the author noted before 1911, all the famed ‘em- that “nut has given this country, pires and kingdoms’ in the then called Nigeria, a unifying Niger-area were already under image”. He noted that it is not British control … as ‘civilized; only Igbo that pray with the fourwell conducted’ peoples, the Brit- lobed kolanut; the Yoruba, who ish styled them. The British con- call it ‘obi-ifa’ and others do, too. sidered the Isuama ‘encephalous, The head of the four-lobed stateless and wild’. The Isuama kolanut has the image that saw the British as socially back- Nigerians call ‘Arewa Symbol’, wards abominators … who shot but is in fact the symbol of the women and children in battle, African people that scholars call and burnt farms and barns.

"African Archetype". Hausa call The Isuama State was a Con- the symbol Talhatuna, Igbo call federal Republic, with it Izuas, the Yoruba put the design headquarters at Ezumoha in on every other cap they wear. “He present day Mbano, Imo State. who brings kola brings Life!”

It encompassed territories in From the meeting point of the parts of all the states of present four-lobes of the kolanut life South East zone of Nigeria, Igbo sprouts. Life springs from Heartland. And it was a synergistic union. Kolanut is the democratic republic, as the peo- symbol of life-promoting union. ple’s culture is known to be. That is exactly the kind of union Many key ideas that guided the a proper nation-state should be. creators and leaders of this If Nigeria properly interrogates sophisticated state are and understands the kolanut, inencapsulated in the symbolism of corporating its symbolism in her the kolanut. new constitution, she shall beIn social associations, includ- come a life-promoting Federal ing community formation at all Republic of free, mutually-cooplevels, the kolanut plays great erating people. That is the messymbolic role. It is a symbol of sage of the Obowu Kolanut Docthe all-inclusive, universalist, umentto the Advisory Committee community. It symbolises truth- of Nigeria’s National Constitujustice, Ogu, without which no tional Conference. association can endure. The bonding of the lobes of the kolanut intrigues. The force holding *Mr Osuagwu, a socio-cultural them together is not quite visi- activist, wrote from Owerri

Fuel subsidy racketeering had been a silent but dubious culture before the present government decided to take the bull by the horn and to dislodge the thieves

,

Remediation of oil producing communities.

Diezani’s numerous achievements include installation of gas facilities in 20 locations to remote monitor distribution of petroleum products; expansion of critical gas infrastructure, the Escravos Lagos Pipeline System; implementation of Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Act; implementation of the National Gas Supply and Pricing Policy; completion and Commissioning of the Floating, Production, Storage and Off-loading, FPSO, Platform as well as award of contract for the second FPSO; NPDC has now grown to a medium size exploration and production company.

Perhaps the greatest achievement that the current Federal Government has recorded in the petroleum industry so far is the openness with which President Jonathan and Minister Diezani granted access to relevant agencies to dig into and expose activities of some oil marketers who were milking the nation dry through the notorious oil subsidy regime. Even while some opposition elements and pull- down agents tried to stand the truth in the head while the controversy lasted, most discerning Nigerians and members of the international community gave credit to the present

administration for having the courage to expose the rot and sanitise the system. This is in view of the fact that the fuel subsidy racketeering was introduced in the oil industry several years ago and had been a silent but dubious culture before the present government decided to take the bull by the horn and to dislodge the thieves, leading to the transparency in which the subsidy process is being handled currently.

Apart from being the first Nigerian woman Minister of Petroleum, Diezani is the first woman ever to lead OPEC delegation. Being the first African woman to be profiled by the CNN in a programme that has featured such renowned personalities like Melinda Gates and the President of Philippine is not a mean feat.

It is for these and many more exploits that several international organisations have recognised Diezani as an outstanding personality. President Barack Obama has personally commended the Minister for her efforts in sanitising the Nigerian oil industry as well as her commitment to the cleaning of oil communities that have hitherto suffered environmental degradation and neglect from successive administrations in the country.

But while the world celebrates this awesome amazon and to the admiration and appreciation of millions of Nigerians, a few disgruntled elements who are obviously on the payroll of a dubious mafioso have chosen to make Diezani a victim of serial attacks, mostly through the social media.

It is, however, gratifying to note that a greater majority of Nigerians have continued to openly declare support for and appreciation to Diezani for her landmark achievements as Petroleum Minister as well as her loyalty and total commitment to the vision of President Jonathan to transform Nigeria.

Mr Melah, a journalist/public analyst, wrote from Abuja

20—Vanguard, TUESDAY,

DECEMBER 3 , 2013

ANAMBRA:

Thrills and frills of a controversial election

BY VINCENT UJUMADU, Awka

T

HE Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, has formally declared the All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA, candidate, Chief Willie Obiano as winner of the Anambra State governorship election after last weekend’s supplementary poll. INEC had declared the first exercise held on November 16, 2013 inconclusive because the difference in votes scored between Chief Obiano who polled 174,710 votes and Comrade Tony Nwoye of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, who came second with 94,856 votes, was more than 113113 registered voters in areas where the commission cancelled election after the first exercise.

So barring any judicial intervention changing the outcome of the election, the APGA candidate would be sworn in as the next governor of Anambra State after the exit of Mr. Peter Obi on March 17, 2014.

As the campaigns for the election lasted, Anambra people had real fun as those who were interested were often transported free

stipend for the day which, she stated, was usually more than the profit she could make from her garden egg business.

Just like the uncommitted party supporters, commercial drivers also had fun as some of them were in business everyday while the campaign lasted. For instance, Mr. Johnson Okeke said his 32- seat bus fetched him enough money during the campaigns such that he is planning to add one more bus to make it two for him. He said: “This political period is really good for me.

For the past two months, I was busy transporting people from one venue of the rally to the other. I would take the people to Awka or Onitsha or any other town they were having their rallies and after dropping them, I would make one or two trips before coming to take the people back to their villages. The pay was good and I must say that politics is good business.”

Before the beginning of the campaigns, some of the parties had great challenges, which actually were responsible for their poor performances in the election. Take PDP for instance, as

,

This political period is really good for me; I was busy transporting people from one venue to the other; the pay was good and I must say that politics is good business of charge to campaign venues by leaders of the political parties who felt that the more people attended the rallies, the more the party was seen as being popular and enjoying large followership.

Some of the 23 political parties that presented candidates for the election had party dresses meant for their members. However, it was commonly noticed that many people, irrespective of their party affiliation, had the uniforms of all the parties and wore them any day that particular party held its rally. So, it was therefore difficult to actually know the real supporters and members of the various parties.

What obtained during the campaigns was that any day a party was holding a rally in Awka or Onitsha, the people would just put on the appropriate dress and board the vehicle made available for them in the villages. Mrs. Ogochukwu Onyeka, a petty trader at Afor Ukpor in Nnewi South local government area said her small business was such that she could afford to attend rallies as often as possible where she was sure of eating a full meal and receiving the accompanying

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the date for the election was drawing near, two parallel factions existed at the state level, thereby confusing members of the party across the state. In fact, it is believed that if PDP could get its acts together in the state, winning election would be easy for it because most of its followers believe that it is either they are in PDP or no politics for them.

With the large number of money bags in the party, funding is really not a problem and this played out anytime the party gathered for meetings or rallies.

For instance, when Comrade Nwoye won the governorship ticket of the party at the Supreme Court and stakeholders welcomed him in Awka, a whooping N20 million was reportedly shared among those who attended the meeting as transport fare, with some people receiving as much as N100,000. It was on that occasion that the oil magnet sponsor of Nwoye, Prince Arthur Eze, promised that any ward that delivered for PDP during the election would be rewarded with N4 million. The party’s candidate, Nwoye, also made a promise of N3 million, bringing to N7 mil-

•Voters protesting late arrival of materials at Nsugbe lion for any of the 326 wards that delivers PDP. For all the wards that delivered PDP, it is yet to be seen if they will receive the money promised them.

For the All Progressives Congress, APC, the party never really recovered from the crisis that rocked it after the merger of three parties, namely ACN, ANPP, CPP and Senator Annie Okonkwo’s faction of APGA in the state. The leadership of the party had favoured Senator Chris Ngige to carry its flag for the governorship, but Mr. Godwin Ezeemo and Senator Okonkwo objected.

Oknokwo was later to be handed the campaign machinery for Ngige but somewhere along the line, there were irreconcilable differences which made Okonkwo, who has intimidating political structure in the state, to abandon APC and Chief George Muoghalu, former national secretary of ANPP, was to become the director general of the Ngige campaign organisation. Also, Ezeemo was to leave APC to pick the ticket of PPA. These developments depleted the ranks of APC. APGA would have suffered the same fate after the bitter quar-

rel between the national chairman of the party, Chief Victor Umeh and Governor Peter Obi, but the Court of Appeal ruling in favour of Umeh brought sanity into the party. If that disagreement had lingered, it would not have been possible for APGA to win the governorship election as it did in 16 of the 21 local government areas of the state.

Screening committee Even at that, Chief Maxi Okwu who came into the scene while the crisis lasted, tried to pull a fast one when he presented Dr. Chike Obidigbo who was disqualified by the screening committee of the party to INEC as APGA candidate. Only insiders in the party can tell how that matter was eventually resolved.

Indeed, what made APGA to excel was the power of incumbency and the fact that Governor Obi performed in office.

Also, the large number of people that attended the rallies of the political parties gave them false impression about their stands, but what worried them more was

the intrigue that played out on the day of the polls. For instance, many people came around as either election monitors or observers, but it turned out that they were party supporters. The reports they have been dishing out since INEC declared the election inconclusive exposed everybody’s original motive. While some have declared the election as one of the worst ever conducted by INEC, others say it was one of the freest election ever conducted by INEC, depending on who the groups were supporting. As expected, the political parties have been using the various interest groups to advance their views.

Another surprising development was the rapport that existed between the candidates of APC and PDP since the election was declared inconclusive, which the leadership of PDP saw as a dangerous development.

Apparently sensing that APC might actually be trying to use its governorship candidate to divide the party, the national leadership of PDP stepped in immediately and declared the Anambra election peaceful.

Residents raise alarm over invasion of hoodlums in public school

BY BOSE ADELAJA

R

ESIDENTS of Igbo-Olo mu in Agric area of Ikorodu have raised alarm over activities of hoodlums in a public school situated in the area.

According to them, their cry became necessary owing to the fact that academic activities in Anglican Primary School have been stalled as the hoodlums have gained access to the school to smoke Indian hemp or carry out other nefarious activities.

A cross section of residents who

spoke with Vanguard Metro lamented that the school had severally been vandalised, thereby exposing their wards to danger.’’They have vandalised the windows and carted away some valuable items not minding the effort put in place by parents and teachers,’’ chorused Chief Alowonle Afees and Mr. Eniolawun Agbede.

According to the residents, the hoodlums, who usually resume around 2pm, chased away both teachers and students before taking over some of the class rooms

till the following day.

A resident who spoke on condition of anonymity said the hoodlums usually leave the school unkempt after defecating in the classrooms. ‘’As a result, academic activities start rather late as the students spend hours to clean the classrooms under the supervision of their teachers.’’

Contacted, a senior police officer at Owutu Division who spoke on condition of anonymity said the station was not aware of such atrocities as nobody has shown up to incident the report.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2013 — 21

IFC, SEC, NSE to develop corporate governance code, premium board index

BY PETER EGWUATU

T

HE Securities and x c h a n g e Commission, SEC, has unveiled plans to partner with the International Finance Corporation, IFC, to develop a corporate governance score card for listed companies on the Nigerian Stock Exchange.

Besides, the Nigerian Stock Exchange has also concluded arrangement to launch a premium board index that would measure the level of corporate governance compliance for quoted entities.

The Director-General of SEC, Arunma Oteh, disclosed this during a parley with Journalists at the just concluded third Capital Market Committee, CMC, retreat held in Abuja. She pointed out that strong corporate governance would be a major prerequisite in determining the number of companies to be included in the index.

She added that the commission would create a voluntary code where companies would indicate the level of corporate governance operational in their companies, while SEC would in turn award scores to these companies based on their compliance level on the index.

“One of the things we have done so far is that we have strengthened our corporate governance framework. We have a partnership with IFC where we are working on developing corporate governance scorecard which E

every company that is listed will need to respond to.

“So far, we have created a voluntary code where companies tell us the level of compliance on their own volitions and they will actually be scored at the level of their corporate governance. She added: “We value transparency, accountability and corporate governance and we are going to take the lead and that is why we must showcase that we are

determined to make sure that everything that happens in our market is of the highest integrity.”

She reiterated the relevance of the capital market in transforming the economy, while urging government to make policies that would fast track growth of the market.

Similarly, the Executive Director, Market Operation& Technology, N S E , Ade Bajomo, explained that the

premium board, which is expected to be operational at the first quarter of next year would feature the best of African enterprise with strong corporate governance structure and practice.

He added that these companies would fall under the categories of highly capitalised entities so as to encourage others to measure up in terms of performance and operations.

From left: Professor Bola Akinterinwa, Director General, Nigerian Institute of International Affairs, NIIA, representing Chief Olusegun Obasanjo; Prince Julius Adelusi-Adeluyi, Chairman of the Presidential Dinner; Prince Adeyemi Adefulu, President, Nigerian-British Chamber of Commerce and Dr Andrew Pocock, British High Commissioner to Nigeria during the Nigerian-British Chamber of Commerce Presidential Dinner and Annual Award in Lagos.

Ar co recor ds N1 .4 4bn PPA AT, pa 10m Arco records N1.4 .44bn payys N5 N51 dividend ttoo shareholder shareholderss

BY PROVIDENCE OBUH

A

RCO Petrochemical Engineering Company Plc, has recorded a Profit After Tax (PAT) of N1.44 billion, an increase of 374.2 percent, in its financial year ended, March 31st , 2013, as shareholders approved N510 million dividend to be paid at 20 kobo per share.

Meanwhile, a subsidiary of the company, Arco Pipeline Solutions Limited, was issued with the ISO 9001:2008 certification for quality, in its core business of “Non Destructive Testing, Technical Services and Integrity Assessment in the Oil and Gas sector.” This was after a successful completion of the “Quality and Environment Certification Programme” with Bureau Veritas, the international quality certification company.

Speaking during the company’s 31st Annual General Meeting in Lagos, Chairman of the Board, Mr. Joseph Akpieyi, said the financial statement for the year under review was prepared in accordance with the International Financial Reporting Stand-

ards, IFRS, as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board, IASB. He said that profit after tax increased from N304.83 million in 2012.

Akpieyi attributed the company’s performance to significant increase in revenue as well as sustained cost reduction programme of the management.

He assured shareholders that it will continuously strengthen, strive to remain focused and utilise resources efficiently in the coming year, “We shall continually seek to create blue oceans to achieve value innovations and post superior results on your investments, leveraging on the Nigerian content policy of the federal government.”

“In the financial year under review, the developed economies continued to manifest the negative overhang of the 2008/ 2009 financial meltdown. The Eurozone remained in recession driven particularly by Spain, Turkey, among others. “Emerging markets and developing markets, just as in the previous year, continue to outperform the global economic growth bench marks,” he stated.

Energy company pledges 10Mw electricity for Borno

O

RIENTED Energy Resources Plc, a Nigeriabased company, says it plans to generate 10 megawatts of electricity within four months in Borno State using solar system.

The company’s Executive Chairman, Alhaji Mohammed Indimi, made the disclosure while speaking to newsmen in Maiduguri. Indimi said the project would be undertaken in partnership with two foreign companies — the Saudi Arabia-based Al-Qahtam and Sons Group and the Aurinka International of Spain.

He said the objective of the venture was to provide lasting solutions to the problem of power supply in the state.

“We hope to start the process of generating power shortly by installing the necessary equipment to build a power plant. And, in the next three to four months, we hope to produce 10 megawatts of electricity here in Borno,” Indimi said.

He, however, said since the ownership of the distribution network belonged to the Federal Government, the company had to obtain approval to place the power generated on the National Grid. Everywhere in the world, the distribution infrastructure belongs to the federal government, which means that we cannot distribute power generated on our own. We have to place it on the National Grid.

“We will in a short while begin the process of securing permission from the government to enable us place the power on the National Grid,” Indimi said.

He, however, said the company would begin to produce smaller power plants in the state, pending federal government’s approval.

“First, we will begin to produce smaller power plants in a short while, starting from my own house and then to state government institutions, before going on a large scale.

For example, we hope to collaborate with the state government to produce power plants for government buildings like the state secretariat, and local government secretariats, and this will take a few weeks to accomplish,” Indimi said.

22— Vanguard, TUESDAY, DECEMBER

3, 2013

Why you can’t sell those shares NOW! (2)

BY BABAJIDE KOMOLAFE

B

EFORE you can sell your shares, they must be deposited in a Central Securities Clearing System, CSCS, account. For investors with share certificates, this means the shares must be verified. In the last edition, we explained this process, and stated that it could take as long as four months.

But having the shares verified, and deposited in a CSCS account is the first part of the process. The second part starts with the investor mandating the stockbroker to sell the shares. This is done by completing what is called, “Mandate Form”, where the investor states the number of shares to be sold, and the price at which they should be sold, and also the period within which the shares should be sold.

With this mandate, the stockbroker has authority to sell the shares, and then can include the shares among the ones he would offer for sale on the stock exchange. Now, most investors, especially retail ones, have this impression that once the broker is given mandate, the shares would be sold within 24 hours,

and they would be able to receive the proceeds of the share sold next day. No, it does not work like that. For the shares to be sold, there must be a willing buyer. That means if nobody is interested in buying those shares, the broker will not be able to sell.

This can be a serious chal-

lenge and source of frustration for an investor, who needs money urgently. The expectation of such investor is that the shares can be turned to cash within 48 hours. It does not occur to him that without a willing buyer, the shares cannot be sold, and he can’t get the cash he needs urgently.

Now, there are companies whose shares are always in demand. There are always people willing to buy their shares. Such shares can be quickly turned into cash. But there are companies whose shares are rarely wanted by anybody. These are companies that have not declared

From left: Chief Executive Officer, Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE), Mr. Oscar Onyema; Managing Director, Nestle Nigeria Plc, Mr. Dharnesh Gordhon; Executive Director, Business Development, NSE, Mr. Haruna Jalo-Waziri and Company Secretary/Legal Adviser, Nestle Nigeria Plc, Mr. Bode Ayeku at the Bell Ringing ceremony of Nestle Nigeria Plc on the floor of the NSE,in Lagos.

Top 10 performing stocks On the top 10 performing stocks last week were Costain (WA) Plc, Jos International Breweries, Prestige Assurance Plc, Union Dicon Salt Plc, MCNichols Plc and Cadbury Nigeria Plc. Others were Neimeth International pharmaceuticals Plc, Ecobank Transnational Incorporated, Flour Mills Nig. Plc and Champion Breweries Plc. Costain plc, listed in the building structure/ completion/other sub-sector of the Nigerian Stock Exchange, NSE, led the top performers with 40.91 percent or N0.27 price appreciation to close at N0.93 from N0.66. Just last month, the company dismissed allegation that First Bank of Nigeria limited had appointed a receiver manager to run the company over a trade debt that arose in the normal course of its business.

According to the company, it has made payment to partially liquidate the debt, while agreement has been reached to completely liquidate the

debt on a later date. Only recently, it was fined N3.6milion for late filing of its March 2012 audited results.

Also, its operation was recently shut down by some of its workers under the aegis of National Union of Construction Civil Engineers Furniture and Woodworkers, CEFWW, and Construction Civil Engineers Senior Staff Association, CCESSA, for non-payment of four months salaries and nonremittance of deducted pension funds.

The share price had earlier risen to N2.66 before slipping to the present market price.

Jos International Breweries followed with price gain of 33.02 percent or N1.07 from N3.24 to N4.31 per share.

Only two months ago, the National Union of Food, Beverages and Tobacco Employees, NUFBTE, dragged the management of the company to the National Industrial Court over unpaid entitlements of its members.

The association had in July

filed the suit praying the court to compel the company to enforce the award of the Industrial Arbitration Panel (IAP) in 2009 and pay the entitlements of its members.

Information from the NSE showed that JIB is yet to make its 2010, 2011 and 2012 financial statements available, obviously because it has not been in operation. The company, however, is restructuring to regularise its post-listing status on the NSE, having recently settled the N700 million debts to one of the local banks by the Plateau State government. The stock price has, however, been on steady upward movement, rising to N9.09 earlier in the year from year low of N0.81 before heading southward.

Prestige Assurance Plc rose by 16.67 percent or N0.10 to close at N0.70 from N0.60 at the beginning of the week. It engages in insurance underwriting, claims administration and management of liquidity by

investing the surplus in fixed deposit, bond and Treasury bill. Though the company had somewhat an impressive outing for the year ended December 31, 2012, its shareholders may get nothing in terms of dividend payment, according to available information. It recorded N4.790 billion in gross premiums written as against N4.273 billion in 2011; the gross premium income grew to N4.585 billion from N3.846 billion in 2011, while the net underwriting income rose to N2.521 billion from N1.994 billion. The profit after tax rose to N593.594 million from negative position of N34.689 million in 2011.

Union Dicon Salt, UDS, listed in the food products sub-sector, went up by 15.58 percent or N 0 . 6 9 f r o m N4.43 to N5.12 propelled by news on take over of the company by CBO Capital Partners to turn around the company.

UDS was

any result, or companies that have no track record of profitability and dividend. An investor who holds the shares of such companies and wants to sell them to meet urgent cash needs would suffer heavy frustration, because after giving the broker the mandate to sell, it might take several weeks before he gets a buyer.

This explanation is in response to readers who have requested for assistance on how to sell their shares.

There is a particular company that sold shares through public offer in 2007, and till date has not declared result or conducted annual general meeting. As a result, the price of the shares has fallen to the nominal value. In fact, it rarely features on the daily transaction summary of the stock exchange. Some investors holding the shares of this company have requested for advice on how to sell the shares. Truth is nobody will buy the shares from you, including the promoter of the company.

Finally, after the broker has succeeded in selling the shares, he won’t give you the money in cash.

By NKIRUKA NNOROM established in 1984, and for a considerable period, was the largest producer of salt in Nigeria. It has two factories: one in Lagos and the other in Port Harcourt, with a total installed production capacity of 700,000 Metric tons per year.

McNichols, another food products listed entity, appreciated by 11.54 percent or N0.15 from N1.30 to N1.45.

The company recently revealed plans to leverage the new Nigerian sugar master-plan to expand its sugar production to about 300 percent with a view to boosting shareholders value.

Year-to-date, the share price has risen by 145 percent compared to the present market price. It had gone up to N2.28 before slowing down.

Cadbury went up by 8.36 percent or N4.85 from N58.00 to N62.85; Neimeth advanced by 7.69 percent or N0.08 from N1.04 to N1.12; ETI went up by 6.99 percent or N0.98 from N14.02 to N15.00 per share; Flourmuills appreciated by 6.13 percent or N5.15 from N84.05 to N89.20, while champion breweries went up by 4.95 percent or N0.80 from N16.15 to N16.95 per share.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2013 — 23

INVESTORS SPEAK

By WILLIAM JIMOH

M

Y BINUYO TEJU, A MINORITY SHAREHOLDER Though the most popular form of investment in the capital market is share, there are other forms which includes, mutual funds and Treasury bill, T-bill, among others. Now talking about fund managers, there are many of them in the country though they are not very popular among investors and some don’t have interest in investing or keeping their money with a fund manager, but this does not negate the benefit of investing through them.

For instance, in Kakawa Asset Management, anybody in Kakawa discount fund gets interests twice a year, the first being in June when they pay 12 percent, whether they make profit or not is not a factor. The second is paid from July to December which is the second half of the year.

Now, let us talk about the dividend.

Apart from the interest, the unitholders still have the benefit of getting dividend but unlike the interest, the dividend is not guaranteed. It depends on the amount they make after using your money to do business. If you give them your money to invest, after the whole operation, they will remove the capital/principal and pay dividend based what they make.

This is how it is done; they divide the profit they made into two, that is to say that the 100 percent profit is divided 50/50 and from one of the 50, then the rest is shared among the unitholders. Some people feel like they don’t want to give their money to any fund manager where they will not have control of it; they prefer to make decisions concernig their

•Teju Binuyo

•Chief Adesiyan

when you keep your money with them, the return on your investment and profit is guaranteed. Having guaranteed the reward they are going to give you, come rain or sunshine, whether they make profit of not, it is not your problem, they will not have option but to give you what they have guaranteed to pay you as it was agreed the day you contacted them for business.There is therefore no cause for alarm, because these managers are doing well, they are professionals, honest and devoted to the ensuring that they meet up to every promise that they made. For instance, Kakawa Fund Manager, which is the best of the fund managers in the country today, goes beyond the guaranteed fund and promise to give more

Investors list benefits of engaging the services of Fund Managers investments by themselves, but some people that are better informed prefer to invest in the capital market through fund managers where they are assured of my fixed return. And if you are tired of their practice at any period of the year, you will get my full investment; others don’t want it this way. And that is to tell you that it is a matter of interest and understanding you have about the market. I cannot put my money in one basket because investing

your money in a single form of investment is like pouring water into a basket. I diversify my investment in different asset classes so that if there is problem like what happened in 2008, all will not be lost.

CHIEF TIMOTHY ADESIYAN, Executive President, Nigeria Shareholders Solidarity Association (NSSA) One thing with Fund Managers is that

money to unitholders. They told us as usual that after the guarantee fund, which they give investors as returns, whatever that remain from the fund’s profit will be shared among investors. And for this year, we have N52 million, which is an excess income which they will share after the normal returns based on the number of units. This is called special dividend.

COMPLAINTS & INVESTIGATIONS

No communication from Learn Africa Plc

P

lease kindly help me find out the situation of my shares with Longman Nigeria Limited. Since it changed name to Learn Africa, l have not heard or receive dividends or any notice from the company. (Epaphanio Stephen Apapa, Lagos) Investors Forum

Please contact First Registrars Plot 2 Abebe Village Road, Iganmu or call 08033018295, 08191410456

How do I recover share document?

Pleases how do I recover my documents sent for verification from non functioning stockbroking firm?

Investors Forum

You can get the contact of any of the officials of the company to request

assistance to recover the documents.

But if you can’t get such contact, we advise that you first visit the registrar of the company that issued the shares to inquire if the documents have been submitted for verification or not. If the registrar confirms that the document is not with it, write to the NSE or SEC to help you recover the documents.

Are my shares still secured?

I bought some shares in 2006 and I have certificates but did do anything thereafter. Are these shares secured?

(Ebenezer)

Investors Forum

Yes. Your shares are still secured. But it is advisable you contact a stockbroker to help you deposit the shares in CSCS. This is because if the certificates are lost or damaged, it would take a long process to recover the shares.

I need contact of National Salt Company

I bought shares in National Salt Company in 1991. I got the certificate but that has been all till date. How can I reach them? (Ulin Ahakon)

Investors Forum

Contact Meristem Registrars Limited, 213, Herbert Macaulay Road, Yaba, Lagos. Tel: 01-28092504, 01-8920491-2. Email: info@meristemregistrars.com.

I want to sell my shares

I bought a public offer from the former Finbank which was later acquired by FCMB through merger.

Two share certificates were issued to me but now, I am in need of money.

City Securities is the Stockbrokers for FCMB who are not represented in Benin City, Edo state. In the interim I want to sell my shares.

What should I do? (Ebare Daniel Aghemenlo)

Investors Forum

City Securities is registrar of FCMB and not the stockbroker. Secondly, we you need to contact a stockbroker

for the verification and sale of the shares. We believe some stockbroking firms have offices in Benin. But check the website of the NSE or SEC to be sure they are registered. But you must be ready to wait as the process can take more than three months.

I need contact of Zenith Bank customer care Please I need to know the mobile money customer care number of Zenith Bank.

Investors Forum

Call 234-1-2787000, 2927000, 4647000, 0700ZENITHBANK or send email to zenithdirect@zenithbank.com

COMPLAINTS AND INVESTIGATIONS Do you have any challenge with your investment in the stock market or with any company (stockbroker, Registrar Company etc), write to vanguardinvestorsforum @gmail.com OR send text to 07043855187. We will INVESTIGATE AND REPLY

24—Vanguard, TUESDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2013

A tale of two operations •Tribute to Dr. Lekan Are on his 80th birthday

A TRIBUTE

BY CHIEF AJIBOLA OGUNSHOLA

O

N a hot, sweaty May 1958 afternoon, two adults and one adolescent stood in front of a room on the balcony at Tedder Hall in University College, Ibadan.

Posted on the door was the bold notice in capital letters: “OPERATION LONDON, 33 DAYS”.

Silence and bewilderment; then solemnity.

“Olorun a wa pelu e o” (May the Lord God keep and protect him) intoned Mrs. Ajoke Aboderin, wife of Chief Moyo Aboderin who had requested “Uncle Bayo”- an adult factotum at her Oke-Bola, Ibadan residence - and myself to accompany her on a visit to “Lekan”, then a final year student. He was reported to be recovering from a serious leg fracture which he had sustained during a football match at the university.

So, was he going to be operated upon in London and away from the country for all of 33 days? Hoping to receive more information on this “disaster” from another student who was passing by, we told him our mission. The student then knocked hard on the door and, to our great stupefaction and evident joy, it was opened from within and out came Lekan himself, leg in plaster, smiling and obviously as delighted to receive us as we were to find him there.

He then explained that his injury, though serious, did not necessitate overseas

visits to Oke Bola, it is that incident that has remained stamped in my memory among my earliest recollections of him.

Of his mother, I have earlier consciousness.

Mama Nihinlola, born into the Aboderin family, was a regular visitor to my mother, who lived at Oranyan, which was not far from Opomulero House where she then lived with “Brother Lekan’s” maternal siblings and her husband. She must have been about 15 years younger than my mother. His mother and mine were both obviously proud and fond of him and of his achievements, through Government College, Ibadan, and subsequently at the university. My mother was always happy to introduce her in Yoruba to other visitors as “The mother of Lekan, university student, her first child born by her to K.O.S. Are”, and those fond references continued when he returned from abroad after completing postgraduate studies. One day she blushed, then smiled her radiant smile as my mother announced to all present that “Are” and Nihinlola had been in intimate and deep courtship from her days in primary school.

After completing my Higher School Certificate course in December 1963, I was considering whether to attend university in Nigeria or travel abroad as I had also gained admission to University of London. Brother Lekan firmly advised that I should not go abroad until after my bachelor’s degree. He had obtained his Ph. D. in the U.S in 1962 and what he saw there had

genes of his hugely driven personality. But his son would probably prefer to trace this inheritance not only to his father, but to his father’s own grandfather, Latoosa, the 12th Are Onakakanfo (Generalissimo) of ancient Oyo Empire, from whom the Are dynasty and Oke-Are in Ibadan derive their names.

After he returned from the USA with Sister Bisi, whom he had married before they travelled, and their daughter, Funke, I was a regular visitor to his residence at Ibadan until I completed my university education and went abroad for professional studies. Because my visits to their residence were often in the afternoon, the meals that I ate in their household were usually local food, but local food of oyinbo (expatriate) quality. As there were only very few phones in those days, all visits were without prior notification. They both treated me like their own j u n i o r Brother Lekan probably brother, and sometimes inherited most of his visible I, too, physical attributes, including his better. also saw him height and infectious smile from as a brother, a rising star his mother within the obviously led him into that Aboderin and Are families and belief about the stress a notable old boy of implications of studying abroad Government College, Ibadan.

Although he goes to bed at 9 at an early age. His advice was an important factor in my p.m and usually wakes up, decision to drop London for naturally, about 6 a.m, he seems Ibadan and it proved to be the capable of finding the time to be anywhere he has and wants right decision.

I found Mama Nihinlola a to be. Through social events simple, very likeable and within his and my own uncomplicated woman. She extended family, his closeness smiled readily, as if to exhibit to his cousins Chief Olu her proud dentition. She was Aboderin and Chief Moyo attractive and, at her age when Aboderin, his high visibility in I came to know her, a little Government College, Ibadan plump, which was in any case Old Boys’ affairs even before a requirement to be considered he became its president - a attractive in those times, but she position he held for many would clearly have still been so years with exceptional even if she had been of lighter commitment and high build. Brother Lekan probably distinction - and also my own inherited most of his visible impromptu calls on his family physical attributes, including from time to time, we his height and infectious smile maintained a continuous and from his mother, while the happy relationship.

Then, in 1984, his cousin, achievements of Alhaji K.O.S. Are in business and politics close friend and founding suggest that he may have chairman of Punch newspaper passed on to his eldest son the company, Chief Olu Aboderin,

, AJIBOLA OGUNSHOLA intervention, that the notice on his door was his own daily countdown reminder to the other students of the number of days remaining to the commencement of the final degree examinations of the college, “the operation”. The examinations of the college were conducted in those days

by University of London. On the day of our visit, it was 33 and on the next, it would be 32, and so on. So, you see - to borrow Dr. Are’s own favourite jargon - his remarkable sense of humour is indeed of early origin.

Although I had known “Brother Lekan” since my late primary school days during his

Dr. Lekan Are

,

who was also my own maternal brother, died. Thereafter I became one of the new directors of the company, on whose board Dr. Lekan Are had been while Chief Olu was alive and of which he was also a shareholder. Chief Moyo became the chairman. I would like to record that he gave full support to the new chairman.

During the time I was chairman for over 24 years, I not only enjoyed his cooperation, but often found him especially useful in resolving difficult situations.

Above all, his contributions to discussions at meetings were consistently of high quality, informed by his wide experience in public service management, his membership of some private sector boards, and an analytical disposition.

Analytical disposition And I think there may also be a lesson for others to learn here.

Give or take a few months, Dr. Are is of the same age as Punch chairman Olu; fifteen years younger than Punch chairman Moyo; ten and half years older than Punch chairman Ajibola; while Wale Aboderin, the present Punch chairman belongs to the same age group as Funke, Dr. Are’s eldest child: in matters of corporate business and money, what is of essence is the goal while hierarchy by age must take an inferior position.

His example made it easier for me, as chairman emeritus, to decide to remain on the board of the company. Dr. Are is well regarded for his integrity, his straightforwardness. I have always known him to be assiduous and thrifty and he started investing early, which have greatly contributed to being the wealthy man that he is today. One can, of course, disagree with him for his well known impatience with those who seem unable to grasp quickly enough the essence of what he is saying and for the bluntness with which he says what is on his mind, which are sometimes harsh and almost

truculent. This can be very unsettling to his subordinates even as they are accepted or tolerated by his colleagues and seniors.

Yet, he values loyalty and never forgets past favours. He literally revered his late paternal uncle, Alhaji Amusa Olaniyi Lawal Are, who retired as a principal manager from United Bank for Africa, for the helpful role he played at a critical juncture in his early life as a schoolboy; he retained special affection for his maternal uncle, Late Pa Emmanuel Layi Aboderin, who showed him more than avuncular love in his childhood days.

And on two occasions, he argued in favour of providing a soft landing for two former top executives of Punch whom the board was considering for punishment – his reason being their past meritorious contributions during difficult times. I congratulate Brother Lekan for attaining the age of eighty; an age at which nobody can still pretend not to be old.

Kidney complication I convey my felicitations and, as his aburo, claim the right to express my gratitude to Sister Bisi, a nutrition and education expert in her own right and former school principal, not only for the love and care she gave our egbon, but also for, in our lingo, bearing him a daughter and two sons Funke (Mrs Igun), Ayokunnu and Damola all of whom any parent would be justly proud.

While he was in his mid forties, he suffered from a kidney complication and, ill in London, he realized he would need to undergo an operation from which he thought he might not return. So, as is the custom among brothers and cousins of that generation, he in one of his low moments told Olu (Aboderin), who was beside him at the time, “Olu, bi mo ba ku, ba mi toju awon omo mi o” ( Olu, if I do not survive this, I know you will see to the welfare of my children).

Olu, while still in good health, recounted this incident to me one evening about two years before his own death on February 28, 1984 at the age of 49. Observing now his steady gait as he moves around, and contemplating his essential vitality, let no one be then surprised if, in ten years’ time, Chief Lekan Are is still around, on his own two feet, recounting the story of his 90 years.

And, who knows, with Sister Bisi coming behind, standing beside and continuing to keep him in check as occasion demands, this proud and valiant descendant of a quondam generalissimo of a historic empire may, even beyond his own expectations, victoriously fight his way into the very exclusive order of Nigerian centenarians.

•Chief Ajibola Ogunshola, is chairman emeritus of Punch

Vanguard, TUESDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2013 — 25

26 — Vanguard, TUESDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2013

oppressed by the unfriendly policies of the administration in Edo State.”

Pledging that “the PDP, Edo State will not let any Edo person ‘to go and die’ if it can help it,” Orbih in the statement said:“our party has instituted an endowment fund for all widows and oppressed people in the state and by this release, we invite the widow captured in the video of the encounter with Governor Oshiomhole to come to the PDP Secretariat on No. 70, Sapele Road, at 11am on Tuesday December 3, 2013 to receive a first-installment sum of N250,000.00 to cushion the pain, trauma and loss occasioned by her mistreatment and the seizure of the items she sells.”

Political point *Oshiomhole and the widow, Mrs Ifijeh drinking tea yesterday.

OSHIOMHOLE AND ORBIH:

Why their battles should not die WHATEVER is the beef between the Edo State governor, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole and his one time buddy and chairman of the state chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Chief Dan Orbih cannot be easily fathomed. But beyond the political excitement in the repeated sucker punches from Orbih is the element of constructive opposition. Or is it not?

V

ERY few Nigerians, nay those in government, would apologise for a misdeed as Governor Adams Oshiomhole of Edo State did last weekend.

The governor who has been celebrated for his unparalleled accomplishments in infrastructure development in the state, however, soured his reputation recently when he disdainfully put down a woman who allegedly violated the provisions against street trading in Benin City.

The governor had in a fit of anger dismissed the woman, Mrs. Joy Ifijeh who claimed to be a widow, telling her to “go and die.”

The words were caught on camera and one of such recordings landed in the hands of the state PDP chairman, Chief Dan Orbih who apparently, loaded it on the internet.

Orbih from the same Etsako stock as the governor, was by some accounts once a very close buddy of Oshiomhole with a

relationship that extended to the exchange of holiday visits between the two families.

However, whatever it is that divided them remains a secret between the two men who despite their public feuds, still chat like buddies whenever they meet like during penultimate weekend’s burial of Admiral Mike Akhigbe.

Such pretence between the Etsako brothers underpins the biblical reference that a man’s foes are members of his household.

Indeed, for Oshiomhole, Orbih has become more than an ordinary foe, becoming perhaps the greatest danger to the political and development legacies that have been central to the Oshiomhole phenomenon in Edo State.

Did Orbih take advantage of the widow in Benin to traumatize Oshiomhole?

Whatever, Oshiomhole’s apology was unprecedented from a government official and was out of context from the pattern of unparalleled arrogance that is characteristic with government officials who have openly traumatized the citizenry with their misdemeanours.

,

BY EMMANUEL AZIKEN, POLITICAL EDITOR

Whether Orbih was taking opportunity of the widow’s distress to score another political point or not, aides and associates of the governor, perhaps were able to make the comrade governor after about two weeks to reflect on his assertion, causing him to make the unprecedented apology.

Receiving a delegation of Federation of Muslim Women Association of Nigeria in Government House Benin City, last Friday, Oshiomhlole said he regretted his action.

“Last week, I had an encounter with a young lady at Oba Ovonramwen Square by Mission Road. She was trading on the road and too many people have been doing this. They block the road with their wares. Part of the problem of Benin before now is that it is so difficult to drive round the City.

“But you find some of our

understand the pains of the poor.

We also need to be careful so that the poor do not create more problems. Just to say to our women that I regret having said what I said to her,” the Edo governor said to the delegation.

But whether the governor has made a personal apology to the woman has also become an issue.

Told of the governor ’s unprecedented action in making an apology, Orbih was unmoved saying that the apology flowed from the PDP’s crusade on behalf of the woman.

Orbih disclosed yesterday that the PDP was going ahead with the scheduled launch of the endowment fund for the widow and other widows who according to him, have suffered under the Oshiomhole regime.

He spoke before Oshiomhole in a dramatic move had breakfast with the woman yesterday during which he offered her N2 million and an automatic employment.

Again, the governor made a direct apology to the woman saying:“ when you put your things on the road a vehicle can run into you and they have killed some people like that and that was why I said if you are a widow do you want more people to be widowed? But when I said go and die, that one was said in a fit of anger. And I am really sorry”, he said.

Whatever, the governor has apologized and something positive has come out from the criticism of Edo PDP. The state PDP had in the past also brought the Oshiomhole government to scrutiny in several other areas of governance and most recently, in the public campaign to stop the sale of Edo House in Lagos.

In that particular engagement, the PDP sought to prove using

Whatever, Oshiomhole’s apology was unprecedented from a government official and was out of context from the pattern of unparalleled arrogance that is characteristic with government officials

*Orbih Before Oshiomhole’s apology, Orbih had last Friday issued a public statement where he disclosed the PDP’s decision to institutionalize an endowment fund for widows he claimed were suffering under the weight of what he claimed to be misrule in Edo State.

“The governor’s actions are appalling, insensate, disgraceful, indecent, cruel and below board. It is clear that he does not care much about the well being of the people as he pretentiously avowed,” Orbih said.

“Our hearts go to that hapless widow in this her time of travails and through her, to other widows who have been

women; they just convert the road to trading post. For years we have been sermonizing. I came across this young lady who chose to put her wares right on the road thereby creating blockade and obstruction. We are all human and in my anger I said to her, how would you be doing this? I asked them to confiscate her wares”, he said.

Explaining further, Oshiomhole said: “She told me ‘I am a widow’ and I said if you are a widow must you do things that would make other women widows. By this obstruction you have caused, you could cause accident. You could actually get knocked down.

“In the process I probably said something that I should not have said. I want to say that I do appreciate that I come from a very poor background. I

,

facts and figures that the Edo House would be better off left in the hands of the state government than being sold.

The engagements between the Edo State PDP and the Oshiomhole government have undoubtedly resonated for the good of the citizenry like Mrs. Ifijeh in Edo State. Oshiomhole is as such constantly on the watch knowing that any little slip, that Orbih is there.

It is only a pity that the situation is quite different in many other states where the administration and opposition officials have resorted to a cozy habitation of tolerance. In such cases, it is the citizenry that lose out. But not in Edo where Orbih puts Oshiomhole on his toes and the result would in the end translate for the good of the people of Edo State.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2013 — 27

Obiano:

Anambra’s surprise man

BY VINCENT UJUMADU

C

HIEF Willie Obiano, a chartered accountant and seasoned banker, has become the main topic for discussion among the political class in Anambra as he settles down as a governor – elect. The Aguleri, Anambra East local government area –born financial technocrat -turned politician, was one of the major surprises of the Anambra gubernatorial campaigns, having remained in the background while other Anambrarians were jostling from pillar to post wanting to become successor to Governor Peter Obi in 2014.

Though his name started making the rounds as one of the people that may emerge in the political scene in the build up to Anambra governorship election, it was not until few weeks to the gubernatorial primaries of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) on August 26, 2013 that he surfaced in the state. His first appearance was at the APGA state headquarters in Awka in early August this year when he was at the party secretariat to meet the leadership of the party and to pick the expression of interest form. While he sat inside the back of the SUV waiting for officials of APGA, who were

Delta 2015:

attending another meeting to come, it could be seen from the way he was interacting with people he was even meeting for the first time, he is a good mixer.

Even though he was the last to join the race for the APGA governorship ticket, he beat all the other contestants hands down. The story however was that he made it because Governor Obi is behind him. At the primaries, he scored a total of 817 out of 1,072 votes cast, while. Mrs. Uche Ekwunife of the House of Representatives came second with 150 votes. Other contestants, Paul Odenigbo had 49 votes, Emeka Nwogbo scored 22 votes and John Nwosu, 18 votes. Two persons, Prince John Emeka and Patrick Obianwu had earlier either withdrawn or stepped down for Obiano before the commencement of voting.

From his acceptance speech after the primaries to the last day of the campaigns, Obiano had remained consistent in saying that he is an apostle of continuity.

Hear him after the primaries: “I speak to you today with every sense of humility and accept this call with full sense of humility and responsibility. I congratulate other aspirants, even those who were disqualified. My dear friends, this is not the end but our job has just begun. It is not

*Obiano personal, but a victory for all; I will work tirelessly with the governor (Peter Obi) to ensure continuity of the project.”

What Obiano had going for him was the Anambra North factor.

Governor Obi had vowed to

hand over to somebody from the area to give them a sense of belonging and even when many people from the area say they do not have the financial muscle like people from Anambra South and

It’s an open game — Omene

Dr Wilson Omene, a PDP stalwart and immediate past Chairman of Ethiope West Local Government Area of Delta State, is currently a consultant in Maritime Affairs. In this interview he bares his mind on a number of burning political issues in Ethiope West Local Government Area, Delta State and the nation. Excerpts:

BY GODWIN OGHRE

N

OW what can you say of the party at the Delta Central and State level?

The party is now very strong at the Delta Central and at the State level. The same episode which played out at our local government level also happened at the Delta Central and at the State level but now the governor in his wisdom is now engaged in constructive party leadership, recognizing the need for a fullscale reform. He has settled most differences, and the party is now waxing very strong at the Delta Central and at the State level, more so as it has finally won the Delta Central Senatorial byeelection.

What will you comment on the performance of the government of Dr Emmanuel Uduaghan?

He is doing well. Peace has come to stay as kidnapping, oil theft, pipe line vandalism, robbery and other vices which almost crippled economic activities in the state, have been reduced. He should always consolidate on the internal

democracy he has also recently entrenched in PDP in the state, particularly in the area of making sure that politicians in the state become more active in their various constituencies in any election. He should try to entrench the system that will stand the test of time.

What will you comment on the current raging issue of rotational governorship in Delta State?

There is nothing like rotational governorship in Delta State.

There was no time in history that the people of Delta State sat down regionally or groupings to agree on rotational governorship. I challenge anybody with such evidence as rotational governorship to come forward and tender it. There was no such agreement at anytime and anywhere. In Ethiope West Local Government Council where we have a rotational agreement, the representatives of all the people in the council area came together to agree to it, and as I speak to you there are concrete evidence that can be relied upon. At the

state level however, there is nothing like that. Urhobo is to Delta State, as a first son is to any family. Just as the words of a first son are respected in any family that is how the words of Urhobo people should be respected in Delta State. Urhobo voice should be and must be the defacto in the decision mechanism of the state and, indeed the nation, considering their overwhelming majority at state level and being the fifth largest nation in Nigeria.

Biggest portion If the children of one father were to share a fish, it is the senior who takes the biggest portion. Urhobo being the senior in the family of Delta State, naturally deserves to hold on to the governorship position, after all, the state capital is in Asaba and that should be their share.

Urhobo cannot lose the capital as well as the governorship. That amounts to inequality.

What will you comment on the arrangement for a Sovereign

*Dr. Wilson Omene National Conference?

It is one of the good decisions that Mr. President has taken so far. It shows that he is a listening President. He listens to the yearnings of the masses. The opposition parties, as you know, specialise in condemning Mr. President over any step he takes, even if such a step is taken for the interest of the people. If he sneezes, they will say why he

Central to finance governorship projects, Obi appeared to spearhead the project through his performance. The argument was that with the appreciable performance of the outgoing governor, only an APGA government would sustain the tempo of development. And indeed, the message sank.

While the allegation about his alleged double voter registration was being made, he kept mute and it was only on one occasion that he stated how he had to do the voters transfer from Lagos to Anambra State because he had to vote for himself as a candidate.

With Governor Obi and the national chairman of APGA, Chief Victor Umeh leading his campaign to all the nooks and crannies of Anambra State, Obiano consistently praised the efforts of Obi in developing the state and how he would continue from where the governor will stop.

What could have derailed the Obiano project was the emergence of Tony Nwoye as the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP few days to the election. However, the system or the gods were apparently committed to Obiano and so, he emerged victorious after last weekend’s supplementary polls.

sneezed in Aso rock, he should have gone to his village to sneeze.

The people of this country must seat down to jointly, by themselves or through their representatives, discuss and agree on how this nation can go forward, how we can exist together, how the bond of unity can be made stronger and more amicable.

That is the essence of the confab and we all need to thank the President for accepting that it should take place.

No other President has gracefully allowed it to happen in this manner. It is only President Jonathan that has allowed it.

Would you prefer President Jonathan to contest the 2015 presidential election?

It would be a disservice to the nation if he does not contest. It will be a disservice to the nation for anybody not to appeal to the president to contest the election for his second tenure.

28 — Vanguard, TUESDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2013

By Theodore Opara

All-new Macan takes Porsche into new territory P

ORSCHE’s tireless dedication to innovation and evolution has spawned a new level for the brand which builds on its heritage of luxury performance sports cars. The allnew Macan signifies Porsche’s pioneering steps into the compact SUV segment and is poised to set new standards in the field of driving dynamics and enjoyment, both on and off road. The Macan deploys the typical sporty handling characteristics which have become synonymous with Porsche. Featuring exceptional acceleration, vast engine power, extreme agility and optimum steering precision, the Macan is set to rewrite the rulebook on outstanding sporting comfort and everyday usability.

The sporty DNA of the Macan, as with all Porsche vehicles, is immediately recognisable in the design.

The Sports Utility Vehicle is unrivalled in its flat and broad profile on the road.

The wrap-around bonnet and gently sloping roof line accentuate the overall impression of sporty elegance and powerful dynamics.

Many of the design elements have been taken from other Porsche sports cars and enhanced for the Macan, making it clear from the very first glance that the Porsche Macan C M Y K

heralds the first sports car in the compact SUV segment.

Two models comprise the Macan product range at market launch. The Macan S is equipped with a 3.0litre V6 biturbo engine delivering 340 hp and also features an active all-wheel drive with an electronically controlled, map-controlled multi-plate clutch.

This all-wheel drive is fitted on all Macan models.

From the outset, the Macan will boast the Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) which transfers power as required

and almost free of interruption in tractive force. This enables the vehicle to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.4 seconds (or 5.2 seconds with the optional Sport Chrono package fitted). The vehicle reaches a top speed of 254 km/h, and its NEDC fuel consumption figures are between 9.0 and 8.7 litres/100 km, which corresponds to a CO2 emissions level of between 212 and 204 g/km.

As the top derivative in the Macan model line, the Macan Turbo is set to be the most powerful vehicle in the

compact SUV segment.

The 3.6-litre V6 biturbo engine, which is being used in a Porsche model for the very first time, achieves an unrivalled 400 hp and catapults the vehicle from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.8 seconds. With the Sport Chrono package fitted, this speed can be reached in just 4.6 seconds. Although the top speed is 266 km/h, the Macan Turbo delivers NEDC fuel consumption figures of between just 9.2 and 8.9 litres/100 km, which equates to a CO2 value of between 216 and

208 g/km.

The name Macan comes from the Indonesian word for tiger, a spirit the car truly embodies. Boasting pure Porsche power and assertiveness, the Macan is also a nimble yet tenacious off-roader. The latest stage of evolution of the allwheel drive – known as Porsche Traction Management (PTM) – has produced one of the world’s most powerful drive systems. A glance at the performance specifications reveals that the Macan has been designed with agili-

ty in mind. Further unmistakable hallmarks of the vehicle include its proportions, design and the mixed tyres on large wheels.

The engines, drive systems and seven-speed PDK bring the vehicle’s characteristics to bear in dynamic and efficient fashion both on and off road, making for a true Porsche driving experience. The driver and passenger seats also feature the low position typical of sports cars.

Coscharis makes Ford ownership, maintenance affordable •Offers 4 years free service

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OSCHARIS Motors, a foremost automobile dealer and representatives of Ford Motor Corporation in Nigeria, has announced the expansion of the Extended Service Plan (ESP) sales promotion by adding Ford Ranger (Pickup) to the list of vehicles that qualify for the package. The package offers free service for 4 years or 120,000 kilometres whichever comes first, to its existing and prospective customers on certain variants of the Ford brand purchased from any Coscharis Motors showrooms nation-wide.

The Extended service Plan (ESP) is a package which allows the buyers of a qualified Ford variant to own the vehicle for four years or 120,000 kilometres, whichever comes first, without worry as he need not spend a kobo to service the vehicle throughout the life span of the ESP. What this means is that for four years or 120,000 kilometres, Coscharis Motors will service the vehicle for the buyer free of charge. All the customer need do is to drive the vehicle to any Coscharis Motors service centre na-

tionwide to get the vehicle serviced and drive away thereafter without paying a kobo.

Among the freebies to be enjoyed by customers for the 4 years/ 120,000 ESP package period are: Free oil change; Free tyre rotation; Free brake pads; Free wiper blades; Free belts and hoses ; and Free shocks.

According to the Group Managing Director of Coscharis Motors, Mr. Josiah Samuel, “the free ESP promo was expanded due to persistent requests being received from customers for the inclusion of more Ford variants in the list of quali-

fied vehicles for the free package.” Mr. Samuel explained that the programme started with the offering of free services on about six variants but has since grown to about 10 variants including Ford Ranger (pickup). Mr. Samuel further explained that the free ESP only seeks the continued realization of the vision Henry Ford had over 100 years ago, which seeks to make automobile available and affordable to all mankind. When asked if the cost of maintaining these customers’ vehicles for free will not mitigate the profitability of their after

sales business, Mr. Samuel had this to say, “We are sure of the quality of our products and of the fact that maintenance cost of the products is quite low – this is part of the messages we are communicating through the ESP offer – maintenance cost is so low that we can even take it off you”. Another reason for the offer according to the GMD is “our desire to take over our customers’ worries about vehicle maintenance and free their minds so that they can focus more on the accomplishment of their primary objectives in business and leisure”.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2013 — 29

30—Vanguard, TUESDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2013

By Theodore Opara

Richbon to unveil XGMA construction equipment

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ICHBON Nigeria Ltd, a leading automobile and construction equipment distributor in Nigeria, is set to launch the XGMA brand of construction equipment into the market. The product Launch scheduled for December 5, 2013, at the company ’s corporate headquarters on Oshodi Apapa Expressway, Lagos is expected to attract crème de la crème in the construction and mining industry in Nigeria.

Richbon Nigeria Ltd popularized the SINOTRUK brand of trucks which is one the fastest selling truck brand in Nigeria in 2011 and 2012 respectively.

According to Mr. Edmund Okwu, General Manager, Richbon, the introduction of XGMA product into the country, will bring soccour to the Nigerian construction industry and bring an end to the era of used construction equipment. “These used equipment, most times, impedes on the performance of federal and state government contractors and affect the quality of their deliverables and this also affects socio economic development," he stated.

Continuing he said, “with the introduction of the budget friendly, attractive, energy-saving and eco-friendly XGMA range of construction equipment such as wheel loaders, bulldozers, excavators, forklifts, graders, rollers, the problems associated with the use of “tokunbo” equipment with its inherent astronomical price, would soon be-

come a thing of the past, he stated. Construction companies and mining companies would have no need to purchase fairly used construction equipment since the XGMA products are stronger, yet more affordable than these used and obsolete construction equipment.

2013 Hyundai Sonata

Hyundai sweeps Strategic Vision’s Total Value Awards F OR the first time in the study’s 18-year history, Hyundai Motor Company ranked first in the automotive industry in Strategic Vision’s annual Total Value Awards.

Additionally, four Hyundai models – Sonata, Genesis Coupe, Elantra and Equus – each took first place in their respective categories. Sonata scored top marks (tied with Ford Fusion) among midsize cars, Genesis

Coupe won in the premium coupe category, Elantra received high scores (tied with Ford Fiesta Sedan and Chevrolet Cruze) among small cars, and the Equus beat out every competitor in the luxury car segment. Equus garnered a score of 804 –highest in the industry – even topping the Tesla Model S at 786.

Strategic Vision’s Total Value Index (TVI) examines the quality of the buy-

the highest model score with the Equus,” said Alexander Edwards, president, Strategic Vision.

Strategic Vision is a research-based consultancy with more than 35 years of experience in understanding consumer decision-making processes for a variety of Fortune 100 clients, including most automotive manufacturers. For the 18th annual TVI, Strategic Vision studied more than

45,000 new car buyers.

“Hyundai continues to offer customers the highest-quality products, packed with premium technologies and best-inclass safety features,” said Mike O’Brien, vice president, Product and Corporate Planning, Hyundai Motor America.

“Awards like this from Strategic Vision reflect our hard work and commitment to customer satisfaction and value.”

Infinity ‘Value Drive’ promo kicks off I

NFINITY Tyres Limited has once again opened its doors nationwide to motorists to enjoy its bouquet of gifts at its annual ‘Value Drive’ promo. After an eventful year, the tyre and battery distribution giant is celebrating the season by putting smiles on the faces of their esteemed customers. The promo was announced by the management at a press conference in Lagos.

As the franchise owner for premium tyre brands such as Pirelli, Goodyear and

CEAT, in addition to Infinity brands of tyres and batteries, the company has consistently delivered value to its end users with its quality products and services.Infinity Tyres Limited aligns with consumer behavior of motorists, when they change their tyres in preparation for the holiday trips, hence the initiative to reward the loyalty of its customers.

In the month of December, when a customer visits any of their outlets nationwide and makes a purchase of any of

From left: Mr. Sanjay Singh, Country Head; Rajesh Chawla, Executive Director and Vikas Bahl, Head of Marketing, Infinity Tyres during the press conference to announce the Infinity Value Drive promo.

C M Y K

er’s complete ownership experience and adds the customer’s assessment of economic consequences from two perspectives: (1) Immediate – or what is influential today, and (2) Expected – what they believe the costs that emerge over time will be.

“Hyundai provides value that customers love with strong styling cues and interior appointments at a terrific price – which is why Hyundai again has

their tyres or batteries, the gets a guaranteed free gift / cash prize embedded in a scratch card, redeemable instantly. The Infinity Annual promo is eagerly awaited for by the motorists planning for their holiday trips.

Indeed, the foremost marketer of automobile tyre and battery brands in Nigeria is extending its yearend gesture to other locations in the country. Infinity Tyres Limited has stayed true to its promise of expanding its nationwide coverage. A few months ago, the city of Calabar joined the network of Infinity ultra-modern outlets, offering sales and servicing of tyres and batteries to Cross Riverian motorists.

In a chat with the press, Managing Director, Infinity Tyres Limited, Mr Arshi Chadha stated that the company tyres has consistently raised the bar in delivering innovative services for its customers.

One of its offering is the Auto Solutions Package.

This involves the supply and maintenance of superior equipment for

Auto Garage business owners and other interested franchisees. Equipment include Tyre Changers, Wheel Balancers, Wheel Alignment Kit, Hydraulic Lifts, A/C Gas Changers, Nitro Fillers etc.

Another innovative offering is the Turbo Wheel Wash. This is the first of its kind in Nigeria. This machine washes automobile wheels with high pressure and rotation, leaving the rims shining and the tyres looking as good as new.

One more item on the service offering is the Battery Health Check kit.

Customers can now check the health of their batteries and electrical systems to ascertain the electrical demands of their automobiles against the power generated by their batteries and their alternators, all these at Infinity Tyres Limited.

Also speaking to newsmen at the official opening of the promo, Executive DirectorMr. Rajesh Chawla announced that the Turbo Wheel Wash and the Battery Health Check will be available free of charge

to every motorist who visits their Abuja outlet or their Victoria Island, Lagos outlet anytime during the promo.

He stated that “despite the business challenges we have all experienced this year, we still need to appreciate our loyal customers at every opportunity.

They remain the center of the business and we will continue to expand our value delivery channels for them” he said.

Mr. Vikas Bahl, marketing head noted that aside the dealers and consumers, Infinity Tyres Limited has continued to partner with government agencies including The Nigerian Police Force, Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), The Nigerian Customs Service, Standards Organisation of Nigeria etc in training as part of Corpoorate Social Responsibility ethos Infinity Tyres believes in.

The MD Mr. Chadha also emphasized that Infinity Tyres Limited is concerned primarily with the prosperity of their customers.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2013—31

By Theodore Opara

Toyota showcases future mobility at Tokyo Motor Show

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OYOTA Motor Cor poration displayed five world-premiere concept vehicles in its Toyota exhibit at the 43rd Tokyo Motor Show which held at Tokyo Big Sight in Koto Ward, Tokyo from November 20 to December 1. Under the slogan “Fun to Drive, Again,”* the concept vehicles convey Toyota’s vision of a future mobility society that values the joy of driving. The vehicles on display embody Toyo-

ta’s efforts to contribute positively to society while creating ever-better cars that exceed expectations.

The Toyota display include a concept version of the fuel cell vehicle scheduled for launch around 2015, as well as a next-generation taxi designed with usability and hospitality in mind and a concept car that connects with its driver in an easyto-use, intuitive manner.

The booth also featured the “Aqua G Sports” com-

pact sports hybrid, the “Toyota i-Road,” a personal mobility vehicle which made its world debut at the Geneva Motor Show in March this year, and the “FT-86 Open concept”, a rear-wheeldrive sports convertible.

The Toyota FCV Concept is a practical concept of the fuel cell vehicle Toyota plans to launch around 2015 as a pioneer in the development of hydrogen-powered vehicles. The vehicle has a driving range of at least

500 km and refueling times as low as three minutes, roughly the same time as for a gasoline vehicle.

The vehicle’s exterior design evokes two key characteristics of a fuel cell vehicle: the transformation of air into water as the system produces electricity, and the powerful acceleration enabled by the electric drive motor.

The bold front view features pronounced air intakes, while the sleek side view conveys the air-to-water transformation with its flowing-liquid door profile and wave-motif fuel cap.

Chevrolet Aveo for for Asoju Oba champions Chevrolet Aveo 1.5L Automatic sedan from CFAO Intermotors, sole distributors of CHEVEROLET in Nigeria and a division of CFAO MOTORS Nigeria Limited has been endorsed as winners’ car during the 2013 finals of the 45th Asoju Oba Table Tennis Championship in Lagos State.

Chief Molade Okoya-Thomas, sole sponsor of the event back to back for 45 years said he is offering the Chevrolet cars for the event not only as a great incentive for young and future table tennis Champions in the country, but also a personal endorsement of Chevrolet brand for all Nigerians.

The cars were presented to the Men’s Singles and Ladies’ Singles Champions by the Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babatunde Fashola as the special guest of honour at the event held recently at the Chief Molade Okoya-Thomas Sports Hall, Teslim Balogun Stadium, Surulere Lagos.

The CHEVROLET Aveo Automatic is targeted at young and upward mobile Nigerians, says Mrs. Francesca Fabunmi, Head Intermotors. “Aveo was built to attend to their mobility needs for enterprise, work and the pleasurable riding for leisure of a young family. Many young people and new families prefer Aveo because it is a budget car with great features. Its fuel efficient with comfortable and roomy interior. It’s the car forChampions” The 2013 CHEVROLET Aveo is fully air-conditioned with an ECOTEC 1.6 Litre engine and a Variable Valve Timing, 108hp at 6400 rpm and 105 lb.-ft. of torque at 4000 rev per minute.

Nissan offers five years/ 120,000km free service in Yuletide sales

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TALLION NMN, authorized Nissan distributors has appealed to Nissan customers to take advantage of the ongoing Nissan Yuletide sales’ campaign to buy Nissan model of their choice from now through December 31, 2013.

The offer amongst others, promises comprehensive free service package for five years or 120, 000 kilometres on any selected Nissan models purchased from the dealership outlets during the period.

Beneficiaries of the scheme can also enjoy irresistible incentives including free oil change, free tyre rotation, free clutch discs and free brake pads with free wiper blades as well as free belts, hoses and free shock absorbers, the management assured. Unveiling this campaign in Lagos, Mr. Amit Sharma, head of sales and marketing, Stallion NMN said the initiative is aimed at assuaging increasing requests by fleet and individual customers’ yearning to experience Nissan imaginative technology, driven by the new slogan: ‘Innovation that excites.

Titled ‘Japanese technology made more affordable,’ the offer will make available six exciting Japanese engineered Nissan variants at relatively affordable price. These vehicles include Nissan Patrol, Murano, X-Trail, Qashqai, Teana and Sentra.

Mr. Sharma explained further that the Nissan Yuletide sales seeks to help more customers drive Nissan cars without necessarily incurring gratuitous maintenance cost during the first five years or 120, 000km..

He said: “We understand the evolving needs and preferences of our customers going by the overwhelming r requests we have received so far but our objective is to provide the best of products and services to customers to enable them enjoy value-added experience.”

This offer is the second in a row since Stallion NMN was named the new Nissan national sales company in May 2013. Stallion NMN hopes to raise the ante and woo more patrons across the country for modern Nissan vehicles.

“Our obligationis to make ownership of Nissan an enjoyable experience and we recognise the importance of excellence both in the quality of our vehicles and in after sales service. We are resolute and keen on repositioning Nissan to become Nigeria’s preferred brand,” Mr. Sharma said.

32 — Vanguard, TUESDAY,

DECEMBER 3 , 2013

Vanguard, TUESD AY, DECEMBER 3, 2013 — 33 TUESDA

Making the difference in the war against AIDS N

BY VICTORIA OJEME

IGERIA has again joined the rest of the world to herald the “World AIDS Day” - a day dedicated to raising awareness and highlighting achievements in the fight against the global pandemic.

Activities to commemorate the Day, included stock-taking on the Nigerian response, remembrance of those lost to AIDS and related diseases and plans for the future, under the theme: “Taking Charge; Get A HIV Test.”

Giving an insight, Director General, National Agency for the Control of AIDS, NACA, Professor John Idoko, said there has been decline in the prevalence rate in “ both children and adults but much more in children, from 2.2 million in 2008 to 1.9 million in adults compared to 24 percent in children from 2009 to 2011.

“It will be impossible to lay the foundation for the end of the pandemic without dramatically greater progress in reducing new infections among adults and children.

“Globally, almost 10 million people are on ART in low and middle income countries. Nigeria has an ANC prevalence of 4.1 percent and a population prevalence of 3.4 percent.

“There are 3.5 million persons living with HIV, out which 1.5 million are in need of treatment. This number will go up with the adaption of the new WHO guidelines on ART. Current NARHS data indicates reduction of HIV prevalence in many of the 12+1 States,”Idoko added.

One of the most significant achievements of Nigeria’s national response to checking the spread of the diseases is the visible role of HIV/AIDS prevention and cure focused Non-Governmental Organisations in complimenting management oversight as well as donor engagement in order to enhance the integrity and perception of how Nigeria manages donor assistance in arresting the spread of the HIV pandemic.

The US President’s Emergency Funds for AIDS Relief, PEPFAR, an important intervention fund, since 2004, has been

supporting the provision of comprehensive HIV prevention, care and treatment services in Nigeria.

Strategies put in place to ensure the achievement of its objectives include engaging with indigenous organizations in supported countries as part of its strategy to reach more people with lifesaving services and in 2008 it funded a local NGO, AIDS Prevention Initiative in Nigeria, APIN, the first local entity to receive funding for comprehensive care and treatment services in Nigeria through the Centre for Disease Control, CDC, Nigeria to provide these services.

The Chief Executive Officer , APIN, in a chat with Health & Living said the organization, has “contributed to the achievement of PEPFAR II goals in Nigeria by supporting the provision of HIV services at 55 comprehensive ART sites, 76 PMTCT sites and 43 DOTS centres.

It also worked with 28 Community Based Organisations to provide care and treatment to HIV infected clients and their families. During the five year project; it reached over 800,000 individuals with counselling and testing so they can know their HIV status and provided antiretroviral drugs to over 75,000 individu-

Make HIV reduction a priority in 2014 — NMA

BY CHIOMA OBINNA

• Professor John Idoko.

HIV/AIDS: NEPWHAN, Friends Africa, task FG on funding, stigmatisation

BY ESTHER ONYEGBULA

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HE Network of People Living With HIV/AIDS in Nigeria, NEPWHAN has urged government at all levels to increase funding of HIV treatment, care and support towards alleviating the plight of Persons Living Wwith HIV in the country.

National Coordinator, NEPWHAN, Mr. Ibrahim Umoru, who made the call during the 2nd World AIDS Day Novelty Match organised by Friends Africa, in Lagos, at the Campos Mini Staduim, decried the dwindling fortunes of HIV response in the country.

Umoru who was unhappy with the high dependence on foreign grants and the level of increasing stigmatisation and discrimination against PLWHA, wondered: "What if these donors withdraw their support and grants? What happens to people like me and my peers? Should we go and die? No we shouldn’t.

"Government should support us by funding our drugs and treatment in health facilities. It would not be fair when these foreign organisations withdraw their grants. We will have nothing to fall back on,” he said. On discrimination and stigmatisation of PLWHA, Umoru said :

als. With the funding, it established stateof-the-art laboratories in over 50 hospitals and plays a major role in HIV laboratory support in Nigeria.

It supports 82 percent of the viral load facilities and 75 percent of the laboratories with drug resistance monitoring capability in the country. The project trained 3,247 health care workers to provide high quality HIV services in the country.

“Systems established to achieve these include an electronic patient record management system to allow health care workers access all of the clients’ care history even when they transfer from one hospital to another, collaboration with community based organizations to create awareness and demand for HIV services and reach orphans and vulnerable children within the communities with care. Strong partnership with government and other institution owners was also singled out as a critical strategy for successful project implementation” he added.

APIN’s Director of laboratory services, Dr Jay Osi-Samuel said of lessons learned during project implementation, “the project model of training hospital staff rather than posting APIN staff to work on site has increased the pool of qualified health care workers across all supported facilities and states and is a strategy for sustainability of HIV services in the country.

He described infrastructure development at supported facilities as one of the critical factors for successful project implementation as most health facilities suffered from chronic under investment at the beginning of the project.

• Cross section of celebrities and ex-Super Eagles stars that took part in the novelty match to raise awareness agains HIB stigmatisation and discrimination.

“When you deny someone his means of “We decided to mark this year’s event livelihood invariably you want the person again with a football match between to die. My heart bleeds for the level of Nigerian celebrities and ex- Super Eagles’ stigma and discrimination against players. These are role models that carry PLWHA.” Dr. Akudo Anyanwu Ikemba, Founder, louder voices in reaching out to Nigerians Friends Africa, observed that the show of and saying no to discrimination and love and acceptance was necessary to stigmatization.

As we celebrate this World AIDS Day let guarantee longevity for PLWHA.

T

HE Nigerian Medical Association, NMA, has challenged govenment at all levels to make reduction of HIV/AIDS prevalence and eradication a cardinal objective as the country marks her centenary anniversary in 2014.

The body of medical doctors also wants government to prioritise HIV/AIDS in budget appropriation activities in the next fiscal year at various legislative houses.

President of the Association, Dr. Osahon Enabulele said the call was for concerted efforts to further bring down the national HIV prevalence from 3.4 percent to less than 2 percent in the next five years.

"The continued high prevalence of maternal to child transmission remains a great challenge to all stakeholders in this business and particularly of great concern to the NMA.” Further, he called on organised private sector, other stakeholders and Nigerians to scale up their support for reduction of HIV/AIDS prevalence and Mother-toChild Transmission of HIV/AIDS in Nigeria.

He expressed hope that implementing the World Health Organization, WHO, new guidelines for HIV testing and counseling and care for adolescents would be a very valuable tool for achieving the objective.

"The NMA advocates that efforts should be intensified towards improved access to anti-retroviral therapy to all those who need it."

34—Vanguard, TUESD AY, DECEMBER 3, 2013 TUESDA

Pharmacists set agenda for Yayale-Ahmed Committee

BY SOLA OGUNDIPE

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HARMACISTS under the aegis of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria, PSN, have admonished the Yayale Ahmed Committee for Harmony in the Health Sector and Welfare of Public Sector Pharmacists, to be committed to establishing a new foundation that would enable the nation’s health sector embrace international best practices in the management of public health workers.

Speaking recently in Ilorin, during the Association’s 86th Annual National Conference, PSN National President, Pharm.

Olumide Akintayo, tasked the Committee to facilitate strategies and policies in the workplace that would strengthen and support the health workforce and in turn, have positive impact on patient outcomes and organizational cost effectiveness.

Akintayo argued that at the expiration of the Harmony Committee, it must put in place a Positive Practice Environment characterized by features such as safe and wellness policies that address workplace hazards, discrimination,

Lifebuoy, UNICEF unite against cholera

BY MODINAT AMUSA

I

N the wake of the recent out break of cholera in six States of the Federation, Lifebuoy from the stable of Unilever Nigeria, in partnership with UNICEF, is promoting basic hygiene practices in schools and homes.

Corporate Relations Manager, Unilever Nigeria, Mr. Yemi Adeboye remarked that consistent evidence shows that hand washing with soap at critical times - before eating or preparing food and after using the toilet - can reduce cholera risk by 70 per cent and acute respiratory infections (ARI's), by 50 per cent, Adeboye observed that Lifebuoy has been promoting hand hygiene awareness in Nigeria since 2011. UNICEF Representative, Lagos Office, Mrs. Sara Nyanti, said the promotion of hand washing with soap has high impact in reduction of children's deaths.

"Through this partnership, we will reach out to households to make them understand handwashing and its practice.

This is the first step of a bigger picture of behavioural change.

"Our aim is to improve and promote handwashing, the soaps are not for UNICEF but for schools, offices, house to house campaign on handwashing," she said.

physical and psychological violence among a host of others.

He recalled that the Committee is charged with redressing issues related to non-skipping of CONHESS 10 in line with the judgment of the National Industrial Court; modalities for payment of consultancy and specialist allowance for healthcare professionals in the health sector; pay relativity as reflected in the 2008 job evaluation report and review of retirement age for health workers from 60 to 65 years.

“The PSN is aware that in view of the National Industrial

NHIS de-accredits hospital for over billing patients

Court judgment on skipping of CONHESS 10, Government should withdraw the circular of the Federal Ministry of Health on non-skipping and this should be given administrative teeth immediately.

He drew attention of the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation to the approval by the National Council on Establishment of the consultant/specialist cadre in the Scheme of Service for pharmacists in Nigeria and called for immediate moves to facilitate emergence of the cadre of specialist pharmacists in the public service at Federal level.

BY VICTORIA OJEME

F

OR manipulating the approved drug list in addition to overbill ing of patients, anAbuja-based healthcare facility, First Hospital and Maternity, has been de-accredited by the National Health Insurance Scheme, NHIS. A statement signed by the Scheme’s, Head of Media & Publicity, Mr Ayo Osinlu said the de-accreditation followed strings of complaints and petitions from enrolees of the hoapital.

Acting General Manager in charge of Standard and Quality Assurance, Dr Kabir Mustapha, led a team from the Enforcement Division to the hospital premises in the suburb of Karu, FCT. "The decision was sequel to complaints regarding the setting aside of NHIS-approved drug tariffs, thereby over-billing patients receiving care under the Scheme. We can assure you that the NHIS has investigated and confirmed this to be true," Osinlu remarked.

The statement warned other hospitals and healthcare providers under the Scheme that infringement on the rights of enrolees remains unacceptable, adding that satisfactory service delivery to all patients under the scheme is non-negotiable It reiterated commitment to qualitative healthcare delivery, and urged adherence to the contractual agreement with the NHIS, which hinges on "Easy access to qualitative healthcare services.

Foundation provides mobility aids for 12,000

BY SOLA OGUNDIPE

A

BOUT 12,000 persons liv ing with disabilities in Lagos and 11 other states of the Federation have benefitted from mobility aids and appliances donated by the MTN Foundation Disability Support Project conducted in conjunction with the Independent Living Programme for People With Disabilities, ILP, and the Mobility Aid and Appliances Research and Development Centre, MAARDEC. At the 4th phase of the official distribution ceremony of the aids in Lagos last week, the aids and appliances, including talking phones, wheelchairs, tricycles, crutches, guide canes, hearing aids and Braille machines were given out.

Executive Secretary, MTNF, Ms. Nonny Ugboma, disclosed that the initiative was set up by the MTNF skills Acquisition project to enable persons with disabilities acquire valuable life skills to become self-dependent as well as contribute to economic growth and development of the country.

"In this phase were going to 11 states and the FCT and expect that 12,000 persons will

•L-R Mr. Dennis Okoro, Director, MTNF; Mrs. Risikat Akinyode, Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation and Ms. Nonny Ugboma, Executive Secretary, MTNF, presenting a wheelchair to Master Seyi Ajibolu, during the distribution of mobility aids and appliances to beneficiaries by MTNF in Lagos, last week. benefit. The selected schools and hospitals were chosen using the vulnerability index.

"Beneficiaries are to use the aids to seek better quality of life. At the world level persons with disabilities are receiving

attention, so it is time to stand up and be counted.”

Recalling the genesis of the initiative, the Executive Secretary said after an assessment of the first two phases of the project to determine what was re-

quired to add more value to the disabled.

"We found that the sum of appliances was not as useful as expected and we resolved to add aids that would be more valuable.

Water resources: Ochekpe cautions RBDAs on uncompleted projects

BY RACHEAL OLAYIWOLA

M

ANAGING Directors of the 12 River Basin Development Authorities, RBDAs, in the country, have been directed to ensure effective supervision and timely completion of all outstanding constituency projects billed for 2013 or face sanctions.

Minister for Water Resourses, Mrs. Sarah Reng Ochekpe who gave the Directive in Abuja at a meeting with the Directors and the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Mr. Baba Umar Faruk, warned that non performers would be disciplined.

At the meeting, convened by the Minister to review the level of procurement and implementation of constituency projects billed for 2013, Ochekpe, warned that the Federal Ministry of Water

• Mrs. Sarah Ochekpe Resources would not tolerate unnecessary delay in the implementation of the projects.

The 12 RBDAs were established in 1976

with a mandate to harness the nation’s water resources for domestic water supply, irrigation and hydropower generation through construction of dams and control of erosion and floods.

Charging the MDs to be committed to their duties because they are rendering important service to the grassroots, Ochekpe remarked that it was part of President Goodluck Jonathan’s commitment to bring dividend of government to the grassroots.

In a response, the MDs said all constituency projects have been procured and implementation was at 40 – 50 percent completion They were expectatnt of full completion of all projects by end of December except those whose funding spill over to 2014 budget.

Vanguard, TUESD AY, DECEMBER 3, 2013 —35 TUESDA

Concert on childhood cancer holds Dec7

BY ESTHER ONYEGBULA

A

MEGA charity fund raising concert tagged: “Paediatric Cancer Concert” holds Saturday December 7, 2013 at the Golden Tulip Hotel Festac, Lagos. The event is being put together by Golden Tulip and Help-to-Heal Foundation in aid of cancer survivors and those afflicted with the disease.

Initiator and General Manager, Golden Tulip, Mr. Shousha Mohesen, said the Foundation would be offering support in the area of finance, procurement of treatment facilities and training of medical personnel in cancer management overseas.

“Part of the short and long term plan of the Help- to- Heal Foundation is to use the funds raised from the various sources to embark on short and long term goals which include treatment of five cancer children in Egypt, assist in provision of paediatric hospital equipment to hospitals in Lagos State. Others are training of doctors abroad and building of a modern pediatric oncology hospital in Lagos.”

Main objective of the concert which is part of the Corporate Social Responsibility of the hotel to restore hope to Nigerian children battling with cancer. A cancer survivor, Mr. Frank Ukpabi said treatment in South Africa cost N7.5 million. He called for more treatment support.

Professor of Oncology and Head, Department of Paediatrics, Lagos University Teaching Hospital, LUTH, Prof. Adebola Akinsulie, blamed the poor outcome of cancer treatment in children in Nigeria on late presentation and high cost. He recommended parental education on cancer issues.

US, EU applaud Nigeria’s headship of global anti-counterfeiting body

BY SOLA OGUNDIPE

C

ONGRATULATORY messages have continued to pour in from the United States of America, the United Kingdom, the European Union and Russian Federation among others, over selection of Director General of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control,NAFDAC, Dr. Paul Orhii, as the first substantive Chairman of the Member State Mechanism, MSM. The NAFDAC DG’s approval to head the Mechanism for the international fight against Substandard, Spurious, FalselyLabeled, Falsified and Counterfeit, SSFFC, was formally announced last week during the 2nd meeting of the world anticounterfeiting body in Geneva,

Switzerland.

The MSM is a novel platform established in 2011 under the auspices of the WHO, to tackle the global problem of spurious, substandard and counterfeit medicines.

The high powered and coveted activities leading to the selection of the NAFDAC Boss as Chair of the MSM actually started in November, 2012 at a meeting convened

by WHO in Buenos Aires, Argentina to discuss the structure, headship, tenure, work plan and other issues surrounding the new mechanism.

In his capacity as Chairman. Orhii presented the report of the steering committee held in July 2013, to the plenary of the member-nations for consideration.

He expressed profound appreciation to the Director General WHO, Dr. Margaret

• Aquafina team addressing a cross section of market men and women at Alayabi Agba Boundary Market, Ajegunle, during the Aquafina Cholera Intervention campaign in Lagos recently.

Chan, and all delegates for the recognition while commending efforts of the openended working group Chaired by Bruno Neves Silva of Brazil and efforts of other countries to the work of MSM. Chairman, NAFDAC Governing Council, Professor John Ibu described the headship of the WHO-driven MSM as "an international acclamation and recognition of the global leadership of Orhii in the fight against drug counterfeiting".

Aquafina takes cholera campaign to Lagos markets

I

N furtherance of its corporate social responsibility, Aquafina, from the stable of Seven-Up Bottling Company Plc., has taken the cholera awareness campaign to markets in Lagos. The campaign seeks to educate on symptoms, prevention and treatment.

At Alayabi Agba Boundary Market,Ajegunle, Chief Medical Director, Optimal Health Care, Lagos,Dr. Femi Olaleye, said the campaign is a way of kicking out cholera from the environment.

Cholera is a disease of the intestines which could be caused by any of the six Fs: fingers, flies, fruits, food, faeces and fluid. Olaleye urged washing of hands and fruits before eating, covering food to avoid flies, flushing toilets and avoiding passage of faeces in open places.

As the roadshow moved round Lagos spreading the message to Ilasa Market/ community, Mile 12 Market, Ijora Market and environs, the Baba Oja of Alayabi Agba Boundary Market, Ajegunle, Alhaji Ibrahim Nda, described Aquafina as a worthy partner.

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Y woman always wants me to suck her (oral sex) before penetration. When I do this she will be excited, breathing fast and shouting, which may attract nearby attention from our neighbors.

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36—Vanguard, TUESDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2013

NLNG, 5 banks sign $1bn MoU

CARNIRIV: Shaggy, Busta Rhymes made ambassadors

BY JIMITOTA ONOYUME

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ORT HARCOURT— MANAGING Director, Nigerian Liquefied Natural Gas, NLNG, Limited, Mr. Babs Omotowo, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding, MoU, with five banks to enable NLNG contractors and vendors access $1 billion credit facility.

The banks are Access, First, Standard Chartered, United Bank of Africa and Zenith.

Speaking at the ceremony in Port Harcourt, Mr. Omotowo said the essence of the credit scheme was to make contractors and vendors of NLNG access funds to enhance efficiency and effectiveness, noting that it was part of efforts to encourage participation of locals in line with the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development Act of 2010.

Omotowo said: “Banks in Nigeria often find it challenging acceding to loan applications from local contractors with little or doubtful assurances of repayment.

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HE Rivers State Tourism Development Agency, RSTDA, has appointed Shaggy, Beenie Man, Busta Rhymes, Luciano, Patra and Morgan Heritage as CARNIRIV Global Ambassadors.

Speaking at the presentation of plaques to the international artistes, the Director-General of RSTDA, Dr. Sam Dede, said the appointment was to position the internationally acclaimed CARNIRIV as a recognisable global brand.

Also honoured was events coordinator and booking agent, Ms. Lexy Brooks of VIP Connected Entertainment.

This year ’s edition of CARNIRIV is billed for December 15 to 21 in Port Harcourt.

“Local enterprises, which have little track record, credit history or liquid collateral are often refused finance. Banks perceive them to be risky.

Niger Delta activist and Chairman of Egbema Gbaramatu Communities Development Foundation, Chief Michael Johnny, has said the people of South-South region are mobilising Nigerians for the re-election of President Goodluck Jonathan in 2015.

Johnny spoke after receiving an award of Icon of Youth Empowerment from Niger Delta Youth Council, at Ekpan, near Warri.

He said the re-election of Jonathan in 2015 was not negotiable, insisting that Nigerians were being mobilised.

He charged the over two million members of the Niger

Delta Youth Council, represented at the ceremony by the executives led by Bakporhe Christopher to spread the news to all

BY GABRIEL ENOGHOLASE

B

ENIN— THE Court of Appeal has dismissed the appeal filed by Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, against the judgment of a Benin Federal High Court which earlier ordered the commission to pay N1,100,000 to one Mr. Philip Odigie for the violation of his fundamental human rights.

The appellate court in its judgment delivered by Justice Tom Yakubu, while dismissing the EFCC’s appeal for lacking in merit, ordered the commission to pay N1,155,000 to the respondent just as it

communities in Niger Delta that come 2015, President Jonathan would be re-elected by Nigerians for a second term.

Firm trains 1,000 artisans

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IGERIA’S leading roofing and ceiling products manufacturer, Eternit Limited, has trained 1,000 carpenters and building products installers in its drive to equip artisans with modern skills.

Managing Director of the firm, Mr. Dirk Modderman, said the beneficiaries were drawn from across the country, including Delta, Ondo, Ekiti, Bayelsa,

Rivers, Anambra Cross River, Akwa Ibom states and the Federal Capital Territory.

He said: “The firm’s diversification into other areas of the construction industry this year was in fulfillment of its desire to play a more robust role in Nigeria’s economy,” adding that the training was part of its social interventions to boost local manpower.

affirmed the judgment of Justice V. Nwokorie of the Federal High Court, Benin, on the issue.

EFCC had, while appealing against the judgment of the lower court, asked the appellate court to determine whether the Federal High Court had the jurisdiction to entertain the respondent’s suit bearing in mind the fact that the arrest and initial

detention took place in Benin, whether the award of N1,000,000 as damages against it was proper, among others.

While dismissing EFCC’s appeal, Justice Yakubu said: “I should make a footnote on this appeal because the application of the respondent at the court below manifestly exposed the over-zealousness of some officials of EFCC.”

Activists, ex-militants laud Tuoyo's nomination for NDDC

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HE nomination of Mr. Tuoyo Williams an aide to Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan of Delta State for appointment as the Executive Director (Project) into the Board of the Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, has been described as the right step in the right direction that will further entrench infrastructural development in the Niger Delta region.

In a statement by Niger Delta activists, Frank Akiefa, Godwin Akiefa and exmilitant leader, Bonny Gawei, said Tuoyo’s nomination was lauded, saying he remained the best choice at the moment that would represent the collective interest of the state and the entire region.

They noted that Governor Uduaghan was more

interested in the development of Niger Delta than any other governor from the long neglected area, adding that his nomination to the NDDC Board had once again proven his unflinching resolve to the region’s development as manpower was the most vital tool to drive the needed development of the area.

They urged Tuoyo to maintain and sustain the standard of development entrenched in Delta State by Governor Uduaghan, who he has worked with in the last seven years as he must have learnt the governor’s model of all round development and funds management.

They commended Governor Uduaghan for the nomination and President Goodluck Jonathan for approving the constitution of a new board.

By Bartholomew Madukwe

PEOPLE SPEAK

08102479985

locally and alleviate funding challenges of vendors, reduce operating cost, improve project delivery timeline, and drive the growth of Nigerian vendors.”

Appeal Court upholds N1m judgment against EFCC

2015: ‘S'South mobilising for Jonathan’

A

“Today NLNG is taking a major step in bringing both potential lenders and borrowers together to bridge the financing gap that exists

(nwamad@yahoo.com)

On nPDP, APC merger

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WENTY-three governors do not equal 23 states. You will soon discover that our friend from Rivers State made a mistake. APC is not a better alternative to PDP. The G-7’s best bet was to remain in PDP and be an alternative viewpoint. — Miss Anasithesia Ezeka, Secretary.

T

HE merger will mean anything but good for the ordinary Nigerian. All the G-7 want is power. It wasn’t forthcoming so they have done what any selfish Nigerian will do.

We must fight for ourselves if we want changes. — Mr. Chinedu Chinweoda, Supervisor.

T

HE battle line has been drawn. The implication of this is that we are likely to witness politics of intimidation and blackmail ahead of 2015.

It also means Jonathan might lose the 2015 polls if this gang up works. — Miss Udeaku Nwazota, Worker.

M

ANY have stolen Nigeria’s wealth for themselves and their family and evidence cannot be established against them for the law to take its course. If this merger will make Nigeria and the citizen better people, so be it.

— Mr. Eyinna Okpani, Student.

I

T has been my wish that a reasonable opposition emerge and I do hope that this present arrangement will work out. Let avarice and greed be put aside to make for the success of this formation. It might just be what Nigeria needs. — Mr. Ben Onyekachi, Banker.

T

HE G-7, PDP and APC are all the same.

APC cannot give us anything in 2015? We are watching all of them. God will not let Nigeria down.

It is always good if politics can be like this so that they will not be taking us for granted. — Miss Ogbue Immaculate, Reporter.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2013—37

Labour Ministry tasks lifting equipment operators on competence

2015: Delta PDP leadership'll determine where guber candidate emerges from— Nwaoboshi

BY EGUFE YAFUGBORHI

P

ORT HARCOURT— OPERATORS of lifting equipment have been charged to raise their competence and qualifications to meet the current industry regulations.

Mr. Paul Okwelehie, Director, Inspectorate Division of the Federal Ministry of Labour and Productivity, gave the charge in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, during a workshop by the ministry in conjunction with the Lifting Equipment Inspectors Association, to sensitise stakeholders on the content and benefits of the enhanced Regulatory Framework for Lifting Equipment and Operations in Nigeria.

He said the sensitization was imperative to guide stakeholders on measuring up following recent Presidential approval of the new Lifting Equipment Regulation which stipulates that all lifting equipment in the Nigerian space be made safe, all operators certified competent and every lifting equipment duly registered.

Jonathan commended on PHCN privatisation

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OMMISSIONER Representing Ethiope-East and Ughelli North Local Government Areas of Delta State Oil Producing Area Development Commission, DESOPADEC, Chief Ominimini Obiuwevbi, has commended President Goodluck Jonathan for privatizing the Power Holding Company of Nigeria, PHCN. Ominimini, who spoke in Ughelli, Delta State, while receiving an award of Honourary Doctorate Degree from Christian University Extension College and Seminary, Chattanooga, Tenese, USA, for his role in human capital development, argued that the privatization would boost electricity supply in the country.

Ominimini said he was ready to use his resources to work for President Goodluck Jonathan toward a second term in 2015, to continue his transformation agenda.

BY AUSTIN OGWUDA

A BREAKFAST MEETING: Governor Adams Oshiomhole of Edo State (right); Mrs Joy Ifije, a Benin widow whom the governor upbraided for blocking the road with her goods, and her son, Bright Ifije, during a breakfast meeting yesterday.

Oshiomhole employs widow, gives He has shown himself a humble leader her N2m z—CRPP , ANEEJ

BY SIMON EBEGBULEM & GABRIEL ENOGHOLASE

B

ENIN—GOVERNOR Adams Oshiomhole of Edo State has offered employment to the widow, Mrs. Joy Ifije, whom he upbraided, penultimate week, and whose goods were seized by men of the state War Against Indiscipline for obstructing the Mission Road in the state capital.

The governor who announced the job offer to the woman, in addition to a N2 million grant for her to get a shop and trade, said, during a breakfast meeting with her at the Government House, yesterday, that her job would be to join state’s War Against Indiscipline in the campaign against street trading and to keep the state clean.

The governor again apologized to the widow and said: “When you put your things on the road a vehicle can run into you and they have killed some people like that. That was why I said if you are a widow do you want more people to be widowed? But when I said go and die, that one was said in a fit of anger. I am really sorry.

“I want you to join us. We would employ you and pay you salary.

You would help us to campaign to other women not to trade on road sides. We should not use poverty as a yardstick. We would also talk to taxi and bus drivers not to block the roads when carrying passengers. You will assist me to talk to women and traders not to litter the roads and sidewalks so that people walking and driving can have free road. If they want to park they can park properly so as not to disturb others.”

The governor said government was trying to change Benin City from its old status explaining, “as you can see Benin is becoming a modern city. So you join us now and every month you begin to get

salary so that you can look after your children.

“For your child who is preparing to enter into the university, my daughters and I have agreed to support him.

If he does well as we pray he does, he would assist the family. Maybe this is the way God wants it. That is why I asked them to look for you so that I can personally offer my apology, but also to support you, so that God helping you, you can overcome the pain of widowhood”, he said.

Oshiomhole, who gave the woman a cash gift of N2 million said: “In addition to working with the War Against Indiscipline, I am also giving you two million naira so that you can rent a shop, trade inside the shop and not roadside and I pray that God will bless your decision on how you utilize the money. This money is not for you to share or distribute but to help you as a working capital.”

Responding, Mrs. Ifijeh thanked the governor for the gesture and promised that she would be part of the fight to keep the city clean.

She apologized to the governor for blocking the road with her wares, saying she recognized that what she did was wrong but she did not know that the governor was on inspection that day.

According to her, she had been a victim of theft by a truck pusher who went away with her goods, a week before her encounter with the governor, that was why she was on the road with her goods that day as she no longer trusted truck pushers not to do away with her goods.

Meanwhile, Coalition of the Registered Political Parties, CRPP, in Edo State and the African network for Environ-

ment and Economic Justice, ANEEJ, have commended Governor Oshiomhole for exhibiting humility by apologizing to the widow over his tirade when she was caught blocking the walkways with her goods.

While the CRPP, in a statement by its chairman, Dr Samson Isibor, carpeted the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in the state “for making the matter a political issue when they forgot that the woman violated the laws against trading on walkways, ANEEJ, through its Executive Director, Rev.David Ugolor, noted that the governor demonstrated an uncommon wisdom by apologizing to the widow.

CRPP said: "That PDP labored in vain to discredit the person of Oshiomhole over the incident showed the party is yet to come to terms that the good people of Edo State have since rejected them; yet they are desperately looking for every opportunity to gain cheap popularity.

“That the governor apologized to her after learning she was a widow, shows the quality of a humble leader and that is enough to cure the PDP of their parochial sentiment.

Speaking to Vanguard yesterday, Rev.Ugolor noted that though the governor’s language seemed harsh but “again even as a governor he is a human being who can also make mistakes. Let us recall that before that incident, the governor has been inspecting some of these areas and some of the things he was on ground, he was not happy about them. Unfortunately, he met this woman and he expressed himself in a very hard way."

SABA—DELTA State Chairman of the ruling People’s Democratic Party, PDP, Chief Peter Nwaoboshi, said yesterday, in Asaba that the leadership of the party would, between February and March next year, make its position clear on where the governorship candidate would emerge from.

He spoke to Vanguard on whether there was really zoning arrangement by the party or not from inception.

Former Minister of State, Education and chieftain of PDP, Olorogun Kenneth Gbagi who spoke at Effurun few days ago had said: “I stand here as the first chartered citizen of PDP. We did not zone, we have not zoned…”.

However, Nwaoboshi said, “relax, by February and before the end of March, PDP leadership in Delta State will make its position clear."

Mutu urges Nigerians to seek God’s empowerment

BY ONOZURE DANIA

A

MEMBER of the House of Representatives, Mr Nicholas Mutu, has urged Nigerians to seek God’s empowerment, which, according to him, is a panacea for peaceful coexistence, long life and happy living.

Speaking during the burial of his cousin, late Chief Eserubo Okporu, in Akugbene community, Bomadi, Delta State, he pointed out that being close to God, knowing His will and working in accordance to His dictates was all Nigerians needed to achieve their dream country.

Mutu, who represents Bomadi and Patani federal constituency, opined that “there was a purpose for our being here on earth, and for us to fulfill His plans, we must seek for His power in all aspects of our lives. Our inabilities to appropriate that causes the delay in achieving the best.”

38—Vanguard , TUESDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2013

Ararume decries Okorocha’s leadership style

BY CHIDI NKWOPARA

O

WERRI—FORMER gubernatorial candidate of the defunct Action Congress of Nigeria, ACN, Chief Ifeanyi Ararume, has expressed shock and disbelief over Governor Rochas Okorocha’s leadership style.

Ararume, who spoke during the national summit of Salvation Front Initiative, SFI, in Owerri, also noted that despite the huge money the Federal Government allocated to the 27 local council areas of the state, no visible signs of development could be seen at that level.

Ararume said: “It is sad to note that the local g o v e r n m e n t administration has completely collapsed in the state since the present administration came on board. The rural people are for now passing through hard times.”

Chief Ararume also noted that development was a necessary coefficient of an organised system but quickly added that this was lacking in Imo State at present.

Imo assures hospital workers on unpaid arrears

BY CHIDI NKWOPARA

O

W E R R I — WORKERS of Imo Specialist Hospital, Owerri, have been assured that the state government will clear their unpaid arrears of salaries and allowances, which has accumulated for about eight months.

The Commissioner for Health, Dr. Edward Ihejirika, who made the promise while addressing the aggrieved workers, also explained that going by the findings from the hospital record and due consultation with concerned stakeholders, solution was in sight.

Ihejirika said: “Going by the hospital’s record and after due consultation with concerned stakeholders on the nagging issue, solution to the unpaid eight months arrears of salaries does not call for absenting yourselves from duty.”

Imo govt disagrees with Central Bank, DMO’s categorisation O

BY CHIDINKWOPARA

WERRI—IMO State Government has disagreed with its categorisation by the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, and the Debt Management Office, DMO, as insolvent, saying that it was not broke.

State Commissioner for Finance, Deacon Chike Okafor, who spoke to newsmen yesterday, in Owerri, said that contrary to reports that government was owing about N100 billion, the administration’s outstanding obligations to all banks stood at less than N10 billion.

Okafor said: “There is no iota of truth in the alleged categorisation of the state government by the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, and the DMO, as insolvent and unfit to take up more loans as a result of the external loans of the state hitting N100 billion.

“This present administration, since it’s inception, has not obtained any external loans but has graciously serviced the loans inherited from previous administrations.’’

According to him, by a recent DMO publication, the state’s external debt stocks represented about 1.94 per cent compared to the other 35 states and Federal Capital Territory, FCT.

While recalling the seven-year N18.5 billion fixed rate bond obtained by the previous administration in 2009, Okafor also said that over N17.69 billion of the bond had been repaid to the holders, leaving an outstanding balance of over

N12 billion as interest.

The commissioner said that before a state could be classified as unfit to borrow, it would have been consistently unable to meet its obligations as they fell due.

“It is, therefore, a deliberate

distortion of facts to suggest that Imo State has been classified as unfit to borrow by the DMO and the CBN. The rumour is a calculated attempt to bring to disrepute, the glaring achievements of the administration,” he said.

AWARD: From left: Pastor Funmi Ayo-Odugbesan, Pastor Sylvester Ogwu, Zonal Pastor, Evangelist Bola Are, Pastor Wale Adeduro, his wife, Kehinde and some pastors of the church, during the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Milk and Honey’s family 10th edition of 'Let Somebody Shout Halleluyah,' at the Church auditorium, Mende, Lagos.

Photo: Lamidi Bamidele.

Ekweremadu’s aide alleges plot to sabotage FG’s projects in Enugu West

E

BY TONY EDIKE

NUGU—SPECIAL Adviser to the Deputy Senate President on Projects, Mr. Bethel Onyenyiri, yesterday, raised an alarm over what he described as plans by Enugu State Government and its agents to sabotage federal projects attracted by Senator Ike Ekweremadu to his Enugu West senatorial zone.

Onyenyiri, who was a former Commissioner in the state, said in a press statement that Governor Sullivan Chime allegedly held a “clandestine meeting” with some of his functionaries to initiate a

campaign aimed at discrediting Senator Ekweremadu in order to sabotage and possibly destroy the numerous projects attracted by him to his constituency.

However, efforts to speak with the state Commissioner for Information, Mr. Chuks Ugwoke and the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Mr. Chukwudi Achife, on the allegation proved abortive as

L

Chairman of the Project Monitoring Committee, copy of which was made available to Vanguard in Enugu yesterday, read: “My attention has been drawn to the plans by the governor of Enugu State, Mr. Sullivan Chime, to disrupt/destroy Federal Government projects attracted to the state, particularly the Enugu West senatorial district by the Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Ike Ekweremadu.”

Women most underutilised resources, says Sanusi

BY PROVIDENCE OBUH

L

AGOS—THE Governor of the Central Bank of

Lagos moves to protect health facilities Development Area, LCDA,

BY CHIOMA OBINNA AGOS—WORRIED by the growing incidences of quackery perpetrated by unregistered health facilities in Lagos State, Health Facility Monitoring and Accreditation Agency, HEFAMAA, has begun the recruitment of residents as independent observers in the 57 local governments and Local Council Development Areas, LCDAs, of the state.

Speaking during the recruitment at Isolo Local Council

they did not pick their calls.

Ekweremadu had last week announced that he had so far attracted over 140 projects to the five local governments in Enugu West senatorial zone and went ahead to constitute project monitoring committees which membership was drawn from all the political wards in the zone.

The press statement by Onyenyiri, who is the

Special Adviser to Lagos State governor on Public Health, Dr. Yewande Adesina, enjoined the residents to observe closely activities around health facilities, particularly private hospitals located around them.

Lamenting the dangers posed by quacks operating in those health facilities, she encouraged residents to be more vigilant and report illegal operators to the Health Facility Monitoring and Accreditation Agency, HEFAMAA, to enable government serve the residents better.

Nigeria, Mr. Lamido Sanusi, has described women as the most underutilised resources in the world.

Sanusi made this observation at the fifth anniversary celebration and 2013 graduation/induction ceremony of Women in Successful Careers, WISCAR, in Lagos.

He said: “Women, who constitute half of the world’s human capital, are one of its most underutilised resources. Studies have shown that if better use were made of the world’s female human capital, economic growth will increase and the number of people living in poverty will decrease (OECD, 2008).

“As this global job crisis continues unabated, women face particular challenges both in terms of the sectors in which they wish to work as well as the conditions they work under (ILO 2012).

“These gender gaps confirmed the Chinese proverb that “women hold up half the sky” favoured by Chairman Mao, is more of aspiration than reality, Goldman Sachs (2012). There are approximately three billion women and girls who hold up half the sky.

“Increasing women’s economic participation has a multiplier effect.

According to Madelein Albright (former US Secretary of State) women reinvest 90 per cent of their income in their families and communities, compared with men who reinvest only 30 to 40 per cent.”

Vanguard, TUESDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2013—39 ,

SHOW: From left, Mr. Hakeem Osagie-Bello, Chairman, Etisalat Nigeria; Ms Evelyn Oputu, Managing Director, Bank Of Industry, and Matthew Willsher, Chief Commercial Officer/Acting CEO, Etisalat Nigeria, during 2013 Lagos Jazz Show, sponsored by Etisalat, at Federal Palace Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos. Photo: Akeem Salau

LAUNCH: From left, Osun State Governor, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola; his Deputy, Mrs. Titi Laoye-Tomori; renowned scholar, writer and cultural activist, Professor Akinwumi Ishola; governor's wife, Sherifat Aregbesola, and a member, House of Representatives, representing Ayedaade/Irewole/Isokan Federal Constituency, Alhaja Ayo Omidiran, during the official launch of Omoluabi Club, in commemoration of Aregbesola's 3rd year administration, at the National Youth Service Corps, NYSC, Orientation Camp, Ede, Osun State, weekend.

LAUNCH: From left, Mr. Rajesh Agnihotri, GM, Corporate Marketing, IG Electronics West Africa Operation; Mr. Donald Nwankwo, Sales and Marketing Manager; Mercedes Benz Automobile Services Ltd; Mr. Mohammed Fouani, Managing Director, Fouani Nigeria Ltd; Mr. Steve Ryu, General Manager, Home Entertainment Division, LG Electronics West Africa Operation, and Mr. Michael Elutilo, LG Regional Training Manager, during the launch of the world's first 55-inch LG curved OLED Tv, in Lagos.

Photo: Diran Oshe

SUMMIT: From left, Ekiti State Deputy Governor, Professor Modupe Adelabu; wife of Ekiti State Governor, Erelu Bisi Fayemi; wife of Osun State Governor, Mrs. Sherifat Aregbesola; and wife of Kwara State Governor, Mrs. Omolewa Ahmed, during Day One of 3rd Ekiti Gender Summit, in Ado-Ekiti, yesterday

PRESENTATION: Products Officer, MTN, Esther Odo; one of the winners, Ekechukwu Solomon; Manager, VAS Proposition & Promotions, MTN, Omotayo George, and Manager, Adeagbo Adesumbo, at the prize presentation of Huawei phones to winners of the MTN Callertunez Promotion, in Lagos.

RELAUNCH: From left, Managing Director, Uniliver Nig, Plc. Mr. Thabo Mabe; Deputy Director, Nutrition, Lagos State Ministry Health, Dr. Abimola Ajayi, and Brand Building Director, Unilever Nig, Plc., Mr. David Okeme, during the relaunch of Knorr Taste Quest-2, at Eko Hotel, weekend.

APPOINTMENT: From left: American artiste, Shaggy; the Director-General of Rivers State Tourism Development Agency, RSTDA, Dr. Sam Dede; American artiste, Bennie Man (3rd left), and others during the appointment of the American stars as Port Harcourt Carnival, CARNIRIV, Global Ambassadors.

VISIT: Osun State Governor, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola (2nd right); Bishop, Osun Anglican Diocese, Rev. James Popoola (3rd right); Asoju Oba of Gbodofon, Chief Jimoh Buraimo (2nd left); Dean, All Saints Cathedral, Osogbo, Venerable Isaac Oluyamo (right); Officers of the Diocese, High Chief Popo Bolarinwa (left), and Chief Femi Adebiyi (3rd left), during a 'Thank You Visit' to the Governor for constructing Bishop Court Road, Isale Aro, Osogbo, at the Government House, Osogbo, Osun State, yesterday.

INAUGURATION: Governor of Kogi State, Capt. Idris Wada middle flanked by the Deputy Governor, Architect Yomi Awoniyi (left), and the Commissioner for Industry, Mr. Alih Aju (right), during the inauguration of the Bassa rural electrification project in Oguma area of the state.

40—Vanguard, TUESDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2013

Zero new HIV/AIDS infection achievable — PLACA

APC leaders part of Nigeria's past misrule — Minister

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OS — DIRECTOR Deneral of Plateau AIDS Control Agency, PL ACA, Dr. Francis Magaji has expressed optimism that the effort to control the spread of HIVAIDS would soon begin to yield fruit with the adoption of the recommendations of the United Nations Global report on HIV/AIDS to achieve “zero new infection, zero AIDS related death, zero stigmatization and discrimination against people living with the disease” by 2015.

He disclosed this weekend at a press briefing on the activities of the agency in mitigating the scourge as the world marked AIDS Day on December 1.

He disclosed that about 80,000 babies get infected with the HIV virus annually despite the huge sum expended to curb the spread adding that Plateau State together with 11 others and the FCT accounts for 70 per cent of the HIV burden in the country.

Almakura visited our shrine after proscription — Ombatse

BY ABEL DANIEL

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HE OMABTSE Mi litia group in Nasarawa State has accused the state governor, Alhaji Umaru AlMakura of allegedly visiting its shrine on several occasion even after the government had proscribed the organisation.

Ombatse’s Legal Adviser, Mr. Zamani Zaphania Alumaga, made this known, weekend, shortly after filing a suit challenging the constitution of a judicial panel of inquiry on Ombatse by the state government at a Lafia High Court.

“The governor sent his permanent secretary Ministry of Health, Alhaji Muhammad on February 2, 2013 to represent him at the reopening session of the Ombatse prayer group".

BY PETER DURU

M

CONFERENCE—He Archbishop of Kaduna Province Anglican Communion, The Most Revd Edmund Akanya (R) with the Bishop of Katsina and Chairman, Planning Committee, Rt. Revd Jonathan Bamaiyi at the Ecclesiastical Province 2013 Advent Convention at Jacaranda Conference Centre, Kaduna on Sunday. Photo: Olu Ajayi.

I didn't steal to build AUN — Atiku Abubkar

BY UMAR YUSUF

Y

OLA— FORMER Vice President, Atiku Abubakar has said that he used his personal resources to develop the American University of Nigeria AUN in Yola to its present status, pointing out that he did not steal the money.

Atiku spoke, weekend, at the eighth Annual Founder’s Day ceremony of the university in Yola.

He recalled the events that preceded the establishment of the university with nostalgia as he paid tribute to the first President of the University, David Huwiler.

“I recall with deep emotion and tribute to David Huwiler whom I brought to the virgin land before the university project commenced. When I took Huwiler to the virgin land, he asked me where the university is and I told him here.

“Towards the end of my tenure, Huwiler left the university thinking that if I quit office the project will stop, believing that I use the privileges of my office to steal funds to build the university.

“But it is now glaring that I am not abusing my office to fund the university as it continues to grow years after I left office,” Atiku said.

Abubakar eulogised the role being played by the current President of the university, Mergee Ensign, pointing out

that she had performed well.

“She has transformed the university more than any of her predecessors in the areas of leadership and support,” he said.

In her speech, Ensign said apart from imparting knowledge to the students, the uni-

versity gave back to the host community through peace initiatives, vocational skills and exchanging ideas for development of research. Seven employees of the institution were rewarded for outstanding performances during the event.

AKURDI— MINISTER of Interior, Abba Moro has taken a swipe at the leaders of opposition All Progressives Party, APC, saying that they shared in the blame of the “misrule that was perpetrated by past administrations in the country."

According to Moro, “the truth is that the party is made up of politicians who contributed in no small measure to the woes facing the Nigeria today and therefore they cannot come back today to claim that they have the magic wand to confront our challenges.”

He spoke, weekend, during a reception in his honour by the EkeOlengbecho Community in Okpokwu Local Government Area of Benue State.

He said: “How can the leaders of the APC exonerate themselves from the pains our people are facing today?

"We all know that these problems were created by past governments wherein leaders of the APC played prominent roles to under-develop our people and country."

CBN predicts bright economic future for Nigeria in 2014

BY JONAH NWOKPOKU

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AGOS—THE Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, has said that with commitment to macroeconomic and financial system stability, Nigeria was likely to evolve as a preferred destination of choice for investments in 2014.

Deputy Governor of the CBN, Dr. Kingsley Moghalu stated this while delivering a keynote address at the CBO Capital Annual Investors conference in Lagos.

Speaking on "the outlook for the Nigerian economy in 2014," Moghalu said that the prospects for the financial sector was bright.

According to him, “given the steady growth achieved in 2013, the economy is expected to grow strongly driven by

high oil prices and robust economic indices. Financial inclusion, access to finance by the informal sector, is also expected to advance in 2014 while the power sector reforms, which will lead to reduction in the cost of doing business, will also lead to better economic opportunities and creation of more jobs in the economy.”

Reacting to the theme of the conference: Pre-election investment strategies for Nigeria in 2014,” he however noted that “ with the forthcoming elections in 2014, government spending is expected to rise due to the financing of election activities.

This in turn, might worsen the liquidity condition in the financial system and create inflationary pressure.”

According to him, “in about five years from now, we should have shifted our economy to become a largely industrial, manufacturing base. Within the next five to 10 years, we must do that; otherwise the future could be difficult for us.”

Speaking on the Investors Conference, the Director, CBO Capital, Bex Nwawudu said, “the key objective is to raise awareness for domestic investment activity in private equity.

People use that word globally; however, locally, there’s not enough knowledge and information as to what it means exactly. Furthermore, in spite of the fact that 2014 heralds the forthcoming elections, it has become important to highlight the fact that Nigeria still has numerous viable and profitable investment opportunities."

Vanguard, TUESDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2013 — 41

42—Vanguard, TUESDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2013

DINNER—From left: Director-General, Nigerian Institute of International Affairs, Prof. Bola Akinterinwa; Chairman, Presidential Dinner, Mr. Julius Adelusi-Adeluyi; President, Nigerian-British Chamber of Commerce, Mr. Adeyemi Adefulu and British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Dr. Andrew Pocock, during the Nigerian-British Chamber of Commerce Presidential Dinner and Annual Award in Lagos.

Varsities open registers for lecturers Continues from page 5 the state government for the re-opening of the institution. He said the lecturers would continue to stay at home until ASUU leaders give the directive to go back to work.

Lecturers shun directives at UNIJOS, ABU, FUT Minna, and others At the University of Jos, the governing council directed heads of departments to open attendance registers for academic staff. Registrar of the university, Danjuma Jilly-Dandam in a statement yesterday, also requested departments to publish lecture time tables by today (Tuesday) to signal the resumption of academic activities and keep daily compliance registers for academic staff that report for work.

However, despite the directive, lecturers were not visible at both the Bauchi Road and Naraguta campuses of the institution as only the non-academic staff members were seen in their offices.

Students are also yet to return to school as hostels remained largely desolate when Vanguard visited, yesterday.

The situation was the same at the Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, Abia State, the two campuses of the Bayero University Kano, Federal University of Agriculture, FUT, Minna, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, and Gombe State University as the lecturers and students have shunned the directive to resume.

ASUU vows to continue strike Meanwhile, the National President of ASUU, Dr. Nasir Fagge who briefed journalists in Abuja on the position of the union following the ultimatum, said the Federal Government was free to open all the federal universities in the country but all the members of ASUU would not go back to work unless government met all their demands.

According to Fagge, “ we shall bow only to what we as academics are convinced will serve the interest of Nigeria and its people, no mat-

ter their ethnic, religious or class origins. This is where we stand. We shall never be cowed. Since the issuance of the union’s response to the said letter, the salvos that have been coming out, allegedly from the Minister of Education makes one to wonder whether the person that is charged with the responsibility of superintending over Nigeria’s education system has the wherewithal to handle such a vital national assignment.

"It is my intention therefore, to clear the air on the rumours, lies and mischief that are milling out of government circles (especially from Ministry of Education and National Universities Commission) all with the intent of misleading the Nigerian public.

“I will establish, to all discerning minds that ASUU did not bring any ‘ new conditions’ as claimed by the Minister of Education Nyesom Wike and Senior Special Assistant to the President on Public Affairs, Mr. Doyin Okupe.

Rather, it is the government that is trying to avoid taking responsibility.”

Fagge stated that ASUU had no role in closing and opening of

universities in Nigeria, rather it could withdraw its services which he said was the right of every worker.

He said: "The fact is very clear that our members are not going back to work and it is part of the sacrifice we are making that our universities meet up with other universities in the world.”

Our agreement with FG — ASUU Dr. Fagge said in the agreement, the Federal Government promised to provide N1.1 trillion in the next six years starting from 2013 with N200 billion, 2014, N220billion, 2015 N220billion, 2016 N220 billion, 2017 N220billin and 2018 N220 billion, for the revitalization of the University system. It was further agreed that a dedicated revitalisation account should be opened at Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, by the Federal Government and fund would be paid into the account on quarterly basis from which the universities will draw.

The ASUU President said after the November 4, 2013 meeting with President Goodluck Jonathan and after the National Executive Council, NEC, meeting

in Kano, the union communicated to the Federal Government on the agreement. He said ASUU also asked the Federal Government to include non-victimization clause and that a new Memorandum of Understanding should be signed by a representative of government, preferably the Attorney General of the Federation and a representative of ASUU, with President of Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC as witness.

He denied speculation that 60 per cent of ASUU branches voted for the unconditional suspension of strike and 40 per cent voted against it.

Fagge said instead, out of the 52 branches of ASUU, 48 branches which was roughly 92 per cent supported suspending the strike only if certain conditions were met while four branches advised the suspension of the strike before pursuing the implementation of certain conditions.

Sack threat, a tragedy He continued: “For a Minister of Education to issue threat of sack of academic staff is a tragedy of huge proportion for Nigeria and Africa.

While ASUU has been struggling for conditions in which Nigerian students would benefit from, the Minister of Education is thinking of a thoughtless mass sack as a solution to the problems arising from Government’s non-implementation of an Agreement reached with ASUU as if Nigerian rulers have made no intellectual progress since Abacha.

“To be clear; Nigerian lecturers — from graduate assistants to professors, are not begging anybody for jobs. It is now well known that since 2003, successive governments have told Nigerian people, repeatedly, that the solution to Nigeria’s social and economic crisis is to kill public economic and educational institutions and institute the reign of private control of the economy and education, whereas the constitution of Nigeria states clearly that the commanding heights of Nigeria’s economy shall be publicly owned.

"From all indications, the Minister of Educa-

tion, on behalf of the present Government, is set to carry out in the sphere of education what one of its predecessors did with universities, Transcorp and the Nigeria Airways.

"The way is being paved for privatization of education. Academic staff have a duty to defend the right of Nigerians to sound public education. To succumb to the present threat by Minister of Education on behalf of Government is to giveup on Nigeria. We in the academic profession have no such intention.

ASUU and Nigeria's past leaders “We resisted Abacha’s dictatorship. We refused to succumb to Obasanjo/ IMF attempt to weaken public in favour of private universities. We convinced Yar ’adua to keep faith with interests of Nigeria’s youth and desist from privatising education. We remember Obasanjo’s position that the solution to ASUU resistance is to flood Nigeria with private universities.

“In spite of all these, stretching from ASUU’s principled resistance since the military, we have noticed with disgust how easy it is for ministers and government to take refuge in political blackmail. We shall never succumb to this. Our country is our union’s constituency”.

The ASUU president said instead of the Minister to respond to their letter which expressed understanding of their resolution on the November 4, 2013, meeting with President Jonathan, he chose to go public accusing ASUU of making new demands.

On the allegation that ASUU was sponsored by the opposition political parties against the Federal Government, he said, “lot of people have asked me this question, am I a politician? ASUU is non partisan, non religious, non ethnic and tribal organisation, we are interested in addressing the problems of this country.

"Politicians are the people that are compounding the problems of this country so how can we be influenced by any political party? ASUU is a trade union of high intellectual people, so no political party can influence or sponsor us.”

Vanguard, TUESDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2013 — 43

C M Y K

44 — Vanguard, TUESDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2013

C M Y K

Vanguard, TUESDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2013 — 45

Developer seeks government, private sector collaboration to reduce housing deficit

BY KINGSLEY ADEGBOYE

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HE Managing Director of Gran Imperio Group, a Lagos-based firm of infrastructure and real estate development, Mr. Adeyeye Ogunwusi said the company ventured into the construction of upscale but affordable housing to bridge the housing gap in the country estimated at 17 million units.

Mr. Ogunwusi however said the company is presenting concentrating its development efforts in Lagos in view of the shortage of decent housing in the megacity.Describing the housing shortfall as alarming, he explained that it would take the collaborative efforts of the government and private sector developers to address the housing deficit.

He listed some of the projects executed by the company to assist in the reduction of the housing deficit in Lagos as Jacob Mews a 120- unit housing estate located at Yaba, Northpointe Phase one and two comprising 101 units of two, three, and four bedroom luxury flats and duplexes in Lekki, the first phase of Lake View Park located adjacent Victoria Garden City, Lekki and Midland Court located along the Northern Foreshore Scheme.

From left to right: Messrs. Adeyeye Ogunwusi- MD, Gran Imperio Group, Kazeem Owolabi, Muyiwa Aromire of GTHomes, Yinka Olafimihan, Isaac Etim and Mrs. Enitan TundeIbironke all of Gran Imperio earners, commended the federal government for establishing the Mortgage Refinance Company.

According to him, the new establishment would solve the problem of defective mortgage system which has remained a major obstacle to mortgage finance in Nigeria. He lauded the urban renewal initiative of the Lagos State Government and pledged the readiness of

homes. “We partner with estate developers to fund their property. We do this with reasonable interest rates,” Owolabi who is a Senior Manager in the PMI said.

The Sales and Marketing Manager of Gran Imperio Group, Mr. Isaac Etim said the company is involved in housing projects in both Island and Mainland. Etim who added that the group is also into

Ogun State rolls out new policy to regularise property ownership

Ongoing projects Others are Westpointe Estate located at Ikate in the Lekki axis, Southpointe Estate located at Lafiaji, Off Lekki-Epe Expressway and Lake View Park two. He pledged to develop all ongoing projects with all utilities and amenities provided.

The Gran Imperio Group boss who said their primary targets are middle class income

his company to collaborate with the government in this regard.

Speaking on behalf of GTHomes Ltd, the mortgage subsidiary of Gtbank and financier of Gran Imperior Group’s projects, Mr. Kazeem Owolabi called on Nigerians to imbibe the saving culture . He stated that the primary objective of GTHomes is to fund mortgages, adding that the PMI also funds people to buy

BY JUDE NJOKU

I

N a bid to elevate the infrastructural development of Ogun State, the Government has introduced a Homeowners’ Charter Programme to enable homeowners regularise the legal status and documentation of their properties.

The Homeowners’ Charter Programme which is an

integral part of the Government’s Mission to rebuild the state will also provide enumeration data for the medium term planning for provision of roads, schools, hospitals and other essential services.

A Ministry of Urban and Physical Planning statement said the programme would enable owners of properties built without government approval to regularise their

title documents through a window of opportunity to obtain building plan approval and certificates of occupancy.

All penalties and fees would be waived while fees are discounted to enable a large percentage of residents to benefit.

The Ministry explained that it was embarking upon the regularisation because the GIS Satellite mapping of the state showed significant

Nigeria’s infrastructure deficit of $2.9 million worrisome – NIQS

BY CHRIS OCHAY I

I

site and service scheme, disclosed that payments for their housing types have been structured to be flexible.

According to him, there are two attractive payment plans offered by the company. These include 20 per cent payment upon signing an agreement, 20 per cent after 90 days, 20 per cent after 180 days, 20 per cent after 270 days and the balance of 20 per cent at the completion of the project. The second plan is that all upfront 100 per cent payments attract 7.5 per cent discount while 50 per cent attracts 3 per cent discount.

The Coordinator of Gran Imperio Group Cooperative Multipurpose Society, Mrs. Enitan Tunde-Ibironke who noted that the Southpointe Estate located near Lafiaji along Lekki-Epe Expressway is owned by members of the Society, said the main objective of the Multipurpose Society is focused on saving culture.

Explaining that the Society is focusing on housing because housing is a fundamental human need, said the Cooperative Society intends to come up with more residential estate both in Lagos Island and Mainland.

mmediate past President of the Nigerian Institute of Quantity Surveyors, NIQS, Mr. Ajele John Alufohai says Nigeria’s $2.9 million infrastructural gap is worrisome.

The President of NIQS, Mr.Agele Alufohai said at a news conference in Abuja that it is sad to note that instead of attracting significant private investments for the development of its infrastructures, the reverse is the case.

Alufohai said that in view of this ugly trend, the Institute has concluded arrangements to bring together some of Nigeria’s best minds in the private

and public sectors to explore how the Public Private Partnership, PPP, could play a more significant role in closing the gap.

“Private investors commit about $200 billion to acquiring, building or operating infrastructure all over the world. Early this year, the government of Brazil announced a plan to attract.$2 billion of private money into airport PPPs,’’ he said, adding that if properly harnessed, the country is sure to benefit from such arrangements.

He said that the conference is not a lecture but speakers will not dwell on definitions and apologies of PPP. Rather, they will look at issues directly relevant to improve the design, governance and

delivery of infrastructure PPPs in Nigeria. ‘’I must mention that the NIQS believes that PPPs can be very pro-poor, low-income Nigerians suffer in many ways from poor infrastructures which includes; low levels of employment, high-cost of transportation and excessively long-journey times and low quality of life among others.”

“Given our great economic potential and the great extent to which it could be leveraged by expanding the provision of critical infrastructure, Nigeria out to be attracting significant private investments in infrastructure.

We have not done as well as we could.”

numbers of unrecorded properties. It was also discovered that thousands of houses in the state have no building plan approval, certificate of occupancy and other title documents It is expected that properties with regularised documents will benefit from Ogun State Governments’ urban renewal policy through effective planning of facilities in the areas of education, health and other essential infrastructures. It will also minimise disputes of ownership of properties while property related fraud and problems of land speculators are reduced to the barest minimum. The Homeowners’ Charter Programme will also enhance the value of the property market in the state.

The statement added that properties built under PHCN high tension cable, committed acquisition property occupying right of way of NNPC pipeline and property built on flood plains are not eligible for participation in the Homeowners’ Charter Programme.

46 — Vanguard, TUESDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2013

ESVARBON inducts 113 surveyors, renews fight against pseudo practices

BY JUDE NJOKU BARELY one month after his inauguration as the Chairman of the Estate Surveyors and Valuers Registration Board of Nigeria, ESVARBON, Elder William Oruka Odudu presided over the induction of 113 newly registered estate surveyors and valuers, vowing to use everything at his disposal to fight quackery in the profession. He also pledged to double the numerical strength of registered estate surveyors and valuers in the country before the expiration of his tenure in 2016.

Elder Odudu explained that with the induction of the new entrants, the total number of registered estate surveyors in the country has risen from 3,119 to 3,232.

Reeling out his seven-point agenda, Odudu who took over as ESVARBON chairman from Mr. Ayodele Sangosanya, said he will put in place measures to accelerate the registration of new entrants into the profession to meet the needs of a rapidly growing Nigerian population.

He hopes that by 2016, the population of registered estate surveyors would have risen to 6,000.

Major challenges Odudu who vowed to intensify the war against quacks especially in estate agency, enjoined those wishing to practise as estate agents to register with the newly registered Association of Estate Agents of Nigeria.

“One of my major challenges is to reduce the nefarious activities of quacks by registering more estate surveyors and valuers. We have put in place the machinery with law enforcement agents to check pseudo practice and deal with offenders. My focus is to battle quacks to a standstill; we have already instituted court actions against some offenders,” he said.

He promised to produce before the end of this year, a printed register of members of ESVARBON. The register, he said, would be launched before October 2014.

Elder W.Illiam Odudu Odudu also promised to pursue the accreditation and reaccreditation of tertiary institutions offering Estate Management; improve the professional standard of estate surveyors in practice through regular workshops and training

programmes in collaboration with the NIESV Learning Centre and develop ESVARBON offices in Abuja and Lagos. He disclosed that already, two adhoc committees have been set up to secure land allocation in the two cities.

Turning to the inductees, Elder Odudu told them that the stamps, seals and certificates given to them, are properties of ESVARBON which reserves the right to withdraw them, if their use is abused. Referring to the seal and stamp as a money

minting machine, he declared: “If the machine is misused, it will start producing counterfeits”. The ESVARBON chairman charged the inductees to abide by the rules and regulations guiding their professional practice. The former Chairman of the defunct Cooperative Bank described integrity as the hallmark of any professional and should therefore be jealously guarded with the fear of God. Giving the charge to the new surveyors, one of the profession’s leading lights, Pa Idahosa Joseph Ojo-Osagie admonished them to acquire nobility through hard work and integrity. “Nobility is not acquired on the streets,” he said, and advised the inductees to always ensure that clients accounts are kept separately.

“Don’t be tempted to dip your hands into your client’s account,” he said.

Pa Ojo-Osagie advised the ESVARBON to ensure that it does not in a bid to increase membership, lower the standard for new entrants.

The second Vice President of the Nigerian Institution of Estate Surveyors and Valuers, NIESV, Dr Ajayi Patunola who stood in for the President, Mr. Emeka Eleh, pledged to collaborate with the Board in its membership drive and the fight against pseudo practices.

NIESV holds induction of 242 new associates, MCPD

T

he Nigerian Institution of Estate Surveyors, NIESV says it is committed to providing continuous capacity building programs and maintenance of highest possible standards in order to improve the services its members offer to the public.

The Institution which is holding the induction of 242 young estate surveyors into the Associates cadre on Thursday, described continuous capacity building as one of the cardinal objectives of the present National Council led by Mr.

Emeka Eleh.

NIESV Publicity Secretary, Otunba Victor Ayeye said the institution under the leadership of the Mr. Eleh has ensured that all persons admitted to Associate Member status passed through stringent admission processes that includes sitting for examination, submission of written thesis, defense of the thesis and appearance for screening before the Membership Committee headed by Olorogun James Omeru, a fellow of the institution.

“Our President, Emeka Eleh and members of the National Council have always ensured a generous number of capacity-building exercises and come this December 4, there will be the Mandatory Continuing Professional Development, MCPD, to bring members up to date with realities and trends in estate surveying and valuation. The events will hold at the Golden Hall of the New Chelsea Hotel in Abuja.

Ayeye, who is the Chairman of the Induction Planning Committee disclosed that the

Dean of the Faculty of Environmental Design and Management of the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife Professor B T Aluko, will deliver the induction seminar on the theme “Estate Surveying and Valuation Profession: Unbundling Latent Competences and Developing New Frontiers”.

Ayeye who spoke on the essence of the seminar, explained that, “It is our practice, to always organise a pre-induction seminar to acculturate the new members and continue from the start to enrich their faculty.

Firm unveils new Ikorodu market

The new shopping complex

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NEW ultra modern mar ket has been completed in Ebute-Ikorodu, along the Ipakodo –Ibeshe Road.

The project which seats on a 6,886.56 square metres of landed property was financed

by Associated Investment Trust Co. Ltd. It consists of 114 lockup en-suite shops and 140 stalls, with prices ranging from N3.925million to N4.2 million.

The market complex is about two minutes drive from Ogolonto junction through Ipakodo road, which is an alternative route to Ikorodu Round About and between Dangote/NPA Terminal and the New Ebute Jetty constructed by Lagos State Government. The development, according to Company Secretary of the Associated In-

vestment Trust Company Limited, Mr. Yomi Apata, a Lawyer, offers a beautiful and well designed as well as attractively positioned banking hall and retail infrastructure.

According to Apata, payment options include full payment or 50 percent down payment, while the balance may be spread within six to 12 calender months. “The market is designed to meet the needs of smart and discerning investment-minded business and organized retailers. The driving

force for the market infrastructure development initiative is the need to create a one-stop and legendary shopping/commercial hub with a tourism experience”, he said, adding that the location would provide huge business opportunities after the full operation of jetty terminus.

It will make the market a destination point for both sea passengers and residents of Ikorodu and its environs”, said Apata.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2013—47

FCT LAND SCAM:

We are in legal land business — Danemy

BY GABRIEL EWEPU

O

NE of the companies allegedly involved in the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, land scam in Abuja, Danemy Nigeria Limited, has absolved itself of any wrong in the transactions involving NSCDC officials, saying that it was into legal land business in the FCT. Testifying at the on-going Public Hearing by the House of Representatives Ad-hoc Committee led by Hon. Bombo Daramole, last week, the CommandantGeneral of the NSCDC, Dr. Ade Abolurin, mentioned Danemy Nigeria Limited, as one of the companies used to illegally collect money from unsuspecting members of the public in the scam.

However, the company’s solicitor, Ben Jones Akpan told journalists in Abuja, that his clients were not involved in any illegal sale of land in the FCT as alleged by the NSCDC leadership.

According to Akpan, “it is a well-known fact that the media has been filled lately with the news of alleged land racketeering in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) involving Deputy Commandant of Corps, Edike M. Akpan of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), using his company, Danemy Nigeria Limited to defraud unsuspecting general public.

As Solicitors to DCC Edike Akpan and Danemy Nigeria Limited, it is imperative to clear the air and refute the concocted lies told by the leadership of NSCDC at the on-going House of Representatives Ad-hoc Committee on the matter.

“Danemy Nigeria Limited is involved in legitimate business of land sales in FCT.

It is an undisputed fact that land deals/ sales had existed in the FCT Command of NSCDC long before Danemy Nig Ltd featured in the play.

Danemy was never involved in land racketeering and cannot be termed as such.

“Danemy does not have any property of her own apart from empowering the officers of the Corps and this can be proved by the signed list of facilitators (who are mostly NSCDC officers) and the amount received as dividend by each.

“The empowerment can also be proven by the furnishing of the Anti-CBRN office of NSCDC and procuring Individual Protective Equipment for the officers. The scheme was even extended to the public and was well applauded and encouraged.

“These have existed long before Danemy came on board, without any query. So, it is however disheartening for the authorities of the Corps or any individual in the Corps to claim ignorance of this truth, just to impress the general public.

“Gosa land was purchased by Danemy Nig Ltd at N85, 000, 000. The land originally belonged to Sheriff Combined Business also doing business under Clifton Hurst Investment and Services Limited.

“The payment was made instalmentally as the subscribers made payment. The bank statement would reveal this transaction. The original owners handed over to us all the relevant land documents.

“Before payment, we paid the services of a lawyer to confirm the authenticity of the documents. We also have a search report to this effect authorizing us to pay.

They also assisted in getting us the building approvals and gave the Deed of Assignment and Power of Attorney.”

Propertygate commits N400 million to housing development

BY KINGSLEY ADEGBOYE

A

REAL estate development company, Messrs Propertygate Development and Investment Plc said it has invested N400 million to boost real estate investment in Nigeria.

The Lagos-based company which made the disclosure weekend through its Managing Director, Mr Adetokunbo Ajayi also announced the completion of another top-class estate named Alexandria Court in the highbrow Lekki Peninsula, Lagos.

He explained that the company has already built and delivered fourteen houses of various types to her clients.

Specifically, Ajayi noted that the houses delivered included blocks of flats, fully detached and semi-detached with features such as paved compound, waterworks, beautiful landscape and professional security guards for enhanced protection of lives and property.

Speaking on the philosophy that underpines Propertygate’s projects, Ajayi explained that the ultimate was clients’ satisfaction. He described the real estate industry as fundamental to human existence because shelter is one of the basic necessities of lives. ”We strive to consistently fulfill the promise of enriching

living made to our customers by ensuring superior value at the core of our products and service delivery.,” Ajayi said. Already, Propertygate has successfully handed over Omoniwa Court and a host of other single detached houses to its diverse owners.

Ajayi disclosed thatAlexandria Court located within Skyview residential scheme at Lekki Peninsula, Lagos would be ready for occupation soon. According to him, acquisition of land for the estate is a direct allocation from Lagos State Government within the New Town Development Authority, NTDA. There are thirty three residential units in the estate. Some of the unique features of the highbrow estate include; well protected gate of manageable size, beautiful functional homes with great finishing, dedicated power station (transformer) and underground power cabling, generators backup for entire estate, and homes, conduit ready for inverters as further backup streetlights, mini waterworks of 220m deep borehole, water treatment plant and other water installations paved roads, walkway and drains, recreation areas, gymnasium and grocery store, security gate house and CCTV cameras.

48 — Vanguard, TUESDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2013

Ban or not, firecrackers flood Lagos warehouses, markets

BY OLASUNKANMI AKONI & MONSURU OLOWOOPEJO

A

S Lagos residents anxiously awaiting for another Yuletide season, sellers of fireworks and other mild explosives, otherwise known as bangers, commonly used during the period have started displaying their wares in some parts of the state. This inspite of the ban placed on unauthorized importation, distribution and sale of the product.

Sources said that despite last year ’s explosions, traders haven’t stopped the importation of fireworks into the country. And that the quantity of explosives hasn’t reduced , rather, the quantity in the month of December has increased.

At the weekend, Vanguard gathered that several lockedup shops and warehouses on Mosalasi, Dosunmu, Oroyinyin, Obun Eko streets, are now stocked with various firecrackers. Even on these streets, the explosives are now displayed openly for prospective buyers.

They carry price tags ranging from N350 for two bangs, three bangs for N450, N650 for five bangs, among others.

Speaking to Vanguard, one Mr. Jahmal, a firecracker trader said; “we have the fireworks in large quantity if you are ready to buy, we will provide whatever quantity you need. It

Firecrackers in Lagos warehouse at Okoya/Ojogiwa, occurred at about 8:00am. The National Emergency Management Agency, NEMA, confirmed the death of one person, while 40

,

Despite last year’s explosion, the traders haven’t stopped the importation of fireworks into the country. And that the quantity of explosives hasn’t reduced , rather, the quantity in the month of December has increased

is available.”

Mr. Slyvanus Ibiwere, A trader appealed to the state government to urgently issue a white-paper to restrict the sale of fireworks in the state.

“Look at me, I have two shops before the explosion last year but now all I have only a makeshift shop. And if the government doesn’t control the sale, storage and use of fireworks in the state, anything can happen again.”

December 26th last year , a boxing day, fireworks stored in inappropriate warehouses, suddenly exploded in Lagos Island. The incident, which affected three buildings located

,

others sustained minor injuries.

Subsequently, Governor Babatunde Fashola, set up a Tribunal of Inquiry into the incident with the aim of forestalling future occurrence. The tribunal had since submitted its recommendations which the governor assured residents of speedy implementation.

Part of the recommendations include: That the state government should legislate a new law that will control the storage and use of fireworks within the state to forestall future occurrence. The law should also specify the date and location where fireworks can be

used.

Announcing the restriction on the sales of the product last month, the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Ade Ipaye, stated: “The state government will not compromise the safety and security of the good people of Lagos on the altar of commerce or celebration. People engaged in the business must therefore ensure that there is full compliance with the provisions of all applicable legislation.

“What is commonly regarded as fireworks (and colloquially as bangers’) is in fact ‘explosives’ within the meaning of the Explosives Act. “To start with, fireworks is a controlled item and therefore no person can import,manufacture, possess, or use, buy, sell or convey the same without complying with the law.”

He cited the Explosives Act and the Explosives Regulations, which states that every person who is engaged in handling or use of fireworks must take due precautions for the prevention of accident by fire or explosion and must also prevent unauthorized persons

having access to the substance. residents.”

Ibirogba added “The commitPeople in the vicinity of explosive materials must also pre- tee has submitted its report and vent others from doing so. Is- the government will issue a land, Ikeja, Ikotun among oth- white paper on the use of firecracker in the state very soon ers.

White paper will be out soon, and when it is out, residents LASG: Responding to govern- the stand of the government ment’s delay in rolling out laws will become clear.” that will control importation and sale of explosives in Lagos state, CommisAGOS State Government at the sioner for Inforweekend restated its commitment mation and to the improvement of all inputs necStrategy, Mr. essary for the delivery of quality eduAderemi Ibirogcation in the state’s public schools to ba, said; “We produce potential future leaders of the don’t like last country. year’s explosion Enumerating the achievments of the and we don’t government in the education sector in want a repeat of the last six years, the Commissioner it. It isn’t our for Information and Strategy, Mr. Adprayer that resieremi Ibirogba, said the state builts dents of Lagos 5,204 new classrooms to cater for the die and lose growing student population which has their property at increased over the years to 1,198,624 the end of every (578,504 in primary and 620,120 in secyear. But the ondary schools). All these are housed people have to in the 664 schools spread across the understand that state. they shouldn’t The state he added, also rehabilitatengage in busied 6,666 classrooms within the period, nesses that endanger other

Our scorecard in educa

L

Vanguard, TUESDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2013

— 49

Poor schools’ infrastructure: SERAP takes up Lagos govt • * Things can be better – Commissioner

BY ABDULWAHAB ABDULAH

S

OCIO-Economic Rights and Accountability Project, (SERAP), a civil society group has asked the Lagos State government to make public its spendings on public primary and secondary education the past five years.

Executive director of the group, Mr Tokunbo Mumuni to the state governor, the body gave the governor a 14-day ultimatum in line with the Freedom of Information Act, (FOI Act) to provide up-to-date information on the spending

relating to public primary and secondary education in the state.

According to them, the alleged delay in improvement of infrastructure development in some public schools within the state is worrisome, hence, their petition.

It therefore cautioned that it will “take appropriate legal actions” to compel the government if it fails to comply “within 14 days of the receipt or publication of this letter.”

In the Freedom of Information, FoIA, petition dated November, 30,2013, it requested that the government should

provide information on the spending for the past five years on furniture in public secondary schools in the state, including Ewutuntun Grammar School in Mafoluku area of Oshodi; Ikeja Grammar School; Iloro Grammar School in Agege; and Fagba Junior Grammar School, Iju Road.

Also, it asked the government to spell out its spendings of the World Bank loan of $90 million to improve education in the 639 public secondary schools in the state.

In addition, it wanted the authority to provide details of projects carried out to improve infrastructure and facilities across public primary and secondary schools in Lagos State.

The group said: “SERAP is seriously concerned about decay in infrastructure in public primary and secondary schools across the State including Ewutuntun Grammar School in Mafoluku area of Oshodi; Ikeja Grammar School; Iloro Grammar School in Agege; and Fagba Junior Grammar School, Iju Road.”

Besides, it also called on the state governor to “rescind the suspen-

ation: It can be better – Govt

We did not suspend principal-LASG Lagos State Government also debunked reports (not Vanguard) that the Principal of Ikeja Junior Grammar School, Mrs. Adesiyan Balogun has been suspended from office.

Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr. Aderemi Ibirogba, who made this known said; “At no time did the state government place the prin-

sion of anyone including principals of schools, for blowing the whistle or allowing journalists to cover the decayed infrastructures and facilities across public primary and secondary schools in Lagos.

“Many pupils in these and other schools continue to sit on the bare floor in some classes while lessons are going on. The classrooms are overcrowded with several broken chairs and desks. Pupils are also reportedly forced to work to repair broken chairs and desks, something which would amount to forced labour,” it added.

SERAP noted, “education at the basic level is one of the most important targets of the Millennium Development Goals,

(MDGs). We believe that without transparency and accountability on the spending of education funds, the goal will remain unrealized for millions of Nigerian children.

“SERAP is bringing this request pursuant to the enacted Freedom of Information Act, which is directly applicable to your state. The Act among others aims to make public records and information more freely available, and makes provisions for public access to public records and information. The Act grants the right to access or request information, which is in the custody of any public official, agency or institution,” the group also said.

Graveyard silence as community alleges monarch’s imposition

Overpopulated classroom

provided 197 schools with science laboratory, built ICT laboratory in 120 schools, supplied 212 schools with science materials and installed introtech laboratories in 73 schools. Also, 1,409,476 textbooks were distributed freely to students while 387,133 furniture were provided to students to make them learn in a conducive environment.

Students recieving lecture sitting on window

cipal on suspension over a negative publication in a national daily or for any other reason.

Ibirogba affirmed that the said principal was, in line with Lagos State Civil Service Rules, asked to explain the situation in her school to enable government assess the true position of things and she has since replied.

According to him, “Mrs Balogun is still an officer of the State Civil Service and the Principal of Ikeja Junior Grammar School, Oshodi, where she is expected to uphold the State’s high standard of education in the School.

“The government has no reason to suspend the said Principal and assures Lagosians of the continued commitment of the administration to the provision of qualitative education in a conducive environment.”

BY OLASUNKANMI AKONI

T

HERE is a graveyard silence in Igbo bi-Sabe area of Yaba Local Council Development Area, as residents of the area who earlier protested what they termed imposition of a traditional ruler in the area are intimidated with heavy presence of soldiers and policemen.

The aggrieved residents, last week, stormed the state House of Assembly over allegation of imposition of one Mr. Adeyemi Bakare, as a candidate for the post of an Oba as against the wish of the people who wanted Ademola Salami.

Leading the protesters to the Assembly was the former member of the state House of Assembly, Hon. Bashiru Fashina, who said Bakare was not a popular candidate the community wanted as their next Oba. According to him; “24 hours ago (last Thursday) it came to our knowledge that a neutral person who the community does

not know was chosen and to be coronated tomorrow Saturday November 30th”.

2013.”

The former Lawmaker, implored the House to stop the coronation to forestall breakdown of peace and tranquility in the area.

The protesters in their numbers carried placards with different inscriptions such as, “We no go gree”, “We don’t want Bakare as our Oba”, “Ademola Salami is our Candidate”, “Assembly should save us from this imposition”, among others.

Addressing the aggrieved protesters, Chairman, House Committee on Information, Security, Strategy and Publicity, Hon. Segun Olulade assured the protesters that the House would look into their plight with a view to bringing peace to the community.

He however, promised that all concerned parties would be invited to the House for proper investigations.

50 — Vanguard, TUESDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2013

C M Y K

Vanguard anguard,, TUESDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2013 —

51

B-R-I-E-F-S

Kabila visits Uganda for parley on stalled peace

T

Somali lawmakers sack PM S

OMALIA’s parliament yesterday sacked Prime Minister Abdi Farah Shirdon, citing his government’s poor performance over the past year.

The prime minister, a political newcomer appointed in October last year, fell out with President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud over the composition of a new cabinet, prompting Monday’s no-confidence vote.

Analysts and diplomats said a replacement must be appointed soon to end political paralysis after two decades of war and chaos in which the Horn of Africa state was carved up into clan fiefdoms and then ruled by al Shabaab militants.

Western donors had worried the rift would disrupt efforts to shore up nascent institutions of state and defeat Islamists linked to al Qaeda who still control swathes of countryside. “(Shirdon) and his cabi-

net ministers had failed,” Somali legislator Ibrahim Suleiman told Reuters.

“This toppled government had low capacity.”

It could be months before a new cabinet is appointed and then approved by the parliament, which could jeopardize the modest security gains and the limited progress made on building a federal state.

“This is going to disorient the entire political structure,” said Abdi Aynte, director of Mogadishu-based Heritage Institute for Policy Studies.

President Mohamud had told Western diplomats the bid to remove Shirdon was prompted by the government’s poor performance, made worse by growing dis-

MBATTLED leaders of Thailand and Ukraine yesterday vowed to remain in office amid calls by citizens of their coutries to relinquish power. But their citizens have continued to defy all pleas for peace and even use of force by security agencies, to dismantle their mass actions in their respective countries. Thailand’s Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra told the country that she will do anything to stop the violence but cannot accept the demands of protesters.

In Kiev, thousands returned at Independence Square, where several hundred core protesters

an analyst for Global Risk Analysis.

While progress has been made to bring Somalia back into the international fold and attract greater donor funds, many ordinary Somalis say their lives remain mired in poverty and violence while political corruption continues unabated.

•Somali Lawmakers in a rowdy vote yesterday

Croatians vote against gay marriage

C

ROATIANS have vot ed to outlaw samesex marriage in a referendum sought by a

Thai, Ukraine leader reject demands to quit

E

content among Somalis who want faster progress on delivering change.

“Prime Minister Shirdon in many ways has become a scapegoat for a relative lack of progress - particularly measured against the huge expectations - since the government came to power,” said Paul Gabriel,

had spent the night in a tent camp. Hundreds of others were holding ground inside the Kiev city hall and a labour union building, where they had barricaded themselves on Sunday.

Church-backed group but strongly opposed by rights groups, partial results showed.

A total of 64.84 percent of voters said “yes” in Sunday’s vote to the question of whether they wanted to amend the constitution to include a definition of marriage as a “union between a woman and a man”.

A total of 34.56 percent of voters in the staunchly Catholic country said “no”.

The partial results, released by the electoral commission, were from around

one-third of polling stations.

Passions ran high ahead of the vote, with the Church-backed “ yes” camp citing the defence of traditional family values, and their opponents accusing them of discrimination against gays.

But three hours before voting ended, the turnout was a rather low 26.75 percent, the electoral commission said. Under Croatian law, a referendum does not require a majority voter turnout to be valid.

Egypt’s draft constitution reshapes transition road map

E

GYPT’s political transition was pitched into uncertainty on Sunday when a draft constitution was amended to allow a presidential election to be held before parliamentary polls, indicating a potential change in the ar-

my’s roadmap.

The roadmap unveiled when the military ousted Islamist President Mohamed Mursi in July said a parliamentary election should take place before the presidential one.

But the draft finalised on Sunday by the 50-

member constituent assembly avoids saying which vote should happen first, leaving the decision up to President Adly Mansour, seen as a front for army rule since he was installed to head the interim administration.

Syria: Fighting hinders evacuation of chemical weapons

T

HE head of the mis sion overseeing the destruction of Syria’s

•Bashar al-Assad

chemical arms said yesterday she had been unable to use a road along which toxic munitions must be hauled to a Syrian port for shipping abroad by December 31.

Fighting in Syria poses a major hurdle to implementing an agreement between Damascus and the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) to remove the deadliest

chemicals by the end of the year to be destroyed on a U.S. ship, said Sigrid Kaag, who heads a U.N. mission with the OPCW. “Security remains a key challenge for all.

The destruction of a chemical weapons program has never taken place under such challenging and dangerous conditions,” Kaag told delegates of the OPCW

in The Hague.

She said the road between the capital Damascus and the city of Homs had been closed during a trip to the region last weekend, and she had instead travelled by helicopter to Latakia, the northern port from which Syria will export hundreds of tons of toxic chemicals to a floating destruction facility.

HE Democratic Re public of Congo’s president, Joseph Kabila, flew into Uganda yesterday for talks aimed at reviving a peace deal between his government and rebel fighters, a Ugandan official said.

Kinshasa and the M23

rebels failed to seal a deal last month after wrangling over what it should be called - the rebels were ready to sign a peace agreement, but Congo’s negotiators wanted to call it a declaration reflecting the rebels’ defeat.

New York gov blames train clash on speed

N

EW York Governor Andrew Cuomo said yesterday that a subway train that derailed in a devastating accident that killed four passengers and wounded 67 others was probably travelling too fast.

There are three possibilities behind Sunday’s crash, which struck during America’s post-

Thanksgiving shopping frenzy, Cuomo said: “Problem with the track, equipment problem or operator error.”

“Working with the experts over the past day, I think it is going to be speed-related,” he told NBC, adding that the sharp curve where the train veered off the tracks was not enough to explain the accident.

Biden visits Japan amid China air zone row

U

.S. Vice President Joe Biden will visit Japan and China this week as a dispute seethes over Beijing’s recent claim of a large swath of airspace in the region.

The Chinese declaration less than two weeks ago has prompted a war of words between governments and flights through the contested air zone by military

planes from the United States, China, Japan and South Korea.

The uneasy situation in the skies over the East China Sea has raised fears that a midair incident could cause circumstances to spiral out of control. It has also fueled concern about how far China is willing to go to pursue its interests in the Asia-Pacific region and push back against U.S. influence.

Cameron visits China for investment

B

RITISH Prime Min ister David Cameron yesterday stressed that his country is open to Chinese investment during his first visit to China since meeting the Dalai Lama, keeping human rights to the sidelines.

Cameron, whose meeting with the exiled Tibetan spiritual leader in 2012 was condemned by Beijing and led to a diplomatic deep-freeze between the two nations,

•David Cameron emphasised business ties as he began what embassy officials called the “the largest British trade mission ever to go to China”.

Pope, Israeli PM meet

P

OPE Francis and Vatican officials expressed hope that Palestinians and Israelis can forge a peace agreement “as soon as possible” as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visited the pontiff Monday, the Vatican said.

The meeting with Netanyahu at the Vatican’s

Apostolic Palace comes months ahead of Francis’ anticipated trip to the Holy Land, a biblical region that includes Israel and the Palestinian territories. Netanyahu also met with the Vatican’s secretary of state, Archbishop Pietro Parolin.

52 — Vanguard, TUESDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2013

Vanguard, TUESDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2013 — 53

54 — Vanguard, TUESDAY DECEMBER 3, 2013

I won’t sign Messi —Ancelotti R

Pellegrini eyes top spot during Christmas

EAL Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti claims he would turn down the chance to sign Barcelona forward Lionel Messi because he already has Cristiano R o n a l d o . ”If I could sign one player for Real Madrid, it wouldn’t be Messi, I’d rather reinforce another position,” he told Italian broadcaster Radio Capital. ”We have Cristiano, who needs Messi? God gave him [Ronaldo] a special gift.”

However, Ancelotti did joke that the capital outfit might be

I

T is all about the games which come next for Manchester City.

Their manager Manuel Pellegrini did little to disguise his belief that the side’s away record has been overanalysed – “our much talked-about away form” was how he described it in his programme notes – and if the side can find this same formula at West Bromwich Albion and Southampton in the next six days, then Arsenal may have reason to arrive here with a shudder, 11 days from now.

“I can answer your question after this week has finished. I have a lot of trust in this team. We have six games in December. We hope we can do it.”

L

IVERPOOL boss Brendan Rodgers believes his side must record back-to-back victories over Norwich and West Ham to stay in touch with their Champions League ambitions.

Terry backs chelsea for title win J

OHN Terry has vowed Chelsea will get better and better in the most open Barclays Premier League title race the Blues captain can recall.

“The Premier League is more open than I’ve ever seen it, We saw that with Hull beating Liverpool. It was important (to beat Southampton) with Man U and Liverpool dropping points. It was a chance to push on and pull away from them. I’m delighted that the team are playing well, my form’s very good.

I can chip in with a couple of goals.

“Ideally I’d like to be sitting top of the league. I feel as though it will come and we’ll get better and better.”

Work resumes at collapsed World Cup stadium

W

ORK has resumed at the Arena de Sao Paulo five days after a crane collapse at the stadium caused the deaths of two construction workers.

Corinthians are set to play in the stadium when the World Cup finishes and a statement on the club’s website confirmed the resumption of work at the site.

Liverpool mark World AIDS Day cause by creating a

E

NGLISH Premier L e a g u e forerunners, Liverpool kicked off a week-long campaign Sunday to raise awareness for World AIDS Day 2013 and people Living with HIV which is part of Standard Chartered’s global HIV and AIDS education programme.

Thirty-five million people worldwide are currently living with HIV, including 100,000 in the UK. To highlight this global issue the Club has released footage of its star players supporting the

•Messi

Rodgers wants reaction from Moses, others

•Terry

•Pellegrini

interested in bringing Messi to the club should Barca decide to sell the Argentine.

He added: “If Barca sell Messi, they should call us.”

World AIDS Day ribbon on a goal net.

The campaign will come to life through a number of activities over the next seven days, including a projection of a red ribbon on the stadium and players warming up in special tshirts at the Liverpool v Norwich game.

•Luiz

Bayern consider Luiz move B

•Guardiola

“When we went into the Fulham game we had targets for the number of points we wanted from the next five games. If we get two victories in the next two games that will put us on course for the bigger picture of two points a game.

“That is the points total that should get us where we want to arrive.

“It hurts us all because we were nowhere near our level, but it’s the bigger picture we need to reflect on, because we haven’t had too many days like this. It’s now a massive game against Norwich in Wednesday and we must focus to get the points in that game.

“Anfield has been a really good place for us this calendar year so we need to get over this and get three points on Wednesday.”

AYERN Munich are interested in signing out-of-favour Chelsea defender David Luiz, according to the Metro.

The Brazilian international, who is currently side-lined with a knee injury, has

featured in just eleven of the Blues twenty-one competitive games this season with Gary Cahill and John Terry proving to be Jose Mourinho’s preferred defensive partnership.

The 26 year old has

t h i r t y - t h r e e international caps, and may welcome a move as he looks to be certain of a place in Luiz Felipe Scolari’s World Cup squad in his native Brazil next summer.

•Agnew (l) consoles Brendan Rodgers

Vanguard, TUESDAY DECEMBER 3, 2013 — 55

Retreat on Eaglets to hold in Calabar T

HE National Sports Commission, NSC, is putting together a retreat on sustaining Nigeria’s performance at the FIFA Under 17 World Championship.

The Cross Rivers State Government will host the retreat, which will take place in Calabar, Cross River State on December 20th, 2013.

It will focus on providing the right orientation for the footballers of the victorious Under 17 side, the Golden Eaglets, on their career progress; drawing a blue print for sustaining Nigeria’s performance at age-grade competitions, among others.

Participants will be drawn from the NSC,

A

World Champions: Celebrating their victory.

Nigerian Football Federation (NFF), business community, ex-footballers and other sports stakeholders.

Some issues/topics that

Iheanacho Continues from B/P golden ball after being named the best player in the tournament.

And while Keshi admits the youngster has been impressive at U/17 level, he is unsure as to whether Iheanacho would cope on the big stage should he be included in the squad for next year’s World Cup in Brazil.

“He is a fantastic player and he has very good qualities to become one of the best footballers in the world from his performance at the Under17 World Cup,” Keshi told SuperSport.

“But we need to ask if he is ready to play at the very highest level of football right now considering the

weight of expectation that might follow such.

“It should be recognised that the Under-17 tournament is a developmental phase for Kelechi and other players in that team.”

The Super Eagles coach added that Iheanacho will likely be left out of the squad, but has backed the 17-year-old to develop into a brilliant player.

“What he needs now is to start playing regularly for a team so that he remains in top shape as a footballer and continue to develop into top class footballer,” Keshi added.

“As for considering him for the World Cup camp, that doesn’t look real right now.”

Keshi Continues from B/P tough as all the finalists have a point to prove.

“We have to be realistic because there are no small teams among the 32 going to Brazil, any of the teams will be tough,” Keshi told Brila FM Radio.

“We have no preference of any of the countries to be our group. All we need do is to prepare well for every team and take the games one after the other.

“If we get Brazil or Uzbekistan or Malta as World Cup opponents, Nigerians will still wor-

Copa Lagos gathers momentum

ry.”

“The country should continue to have confidence in the team, support the team, rather than pulling it down,” he added.

Keshi, who is now two years on the job, said he does not expect the MVP from the recent U17 World Cup Kelechi Iheanacho to be part of his plans for Brazil because he lacks the necessary experience.

“Iheanacho is a good player, but he has to play in a team and gain league experience and not just perform in the U17 World Cup,” he said.

will be discussed at the retreat will include Developing the Right Social Skills; the ABC of Football Contracts; the At-

titude for Success; Image and Media Management; Financial Management etc.

RRANGEMENTS are in top gear for the 3rd edition of Copa Lagos Beach Soccer Tournament, Africa’s biggest beach soccer event. The superlative competition will take place on the beachfront of Eko Atlantic City from December 13 to end on December 15, 2013.

The event will demonstrate and also lend premium to how sponsors such as FCMB, Eko Atlantic and Cool FM use the positive values of sports as a tool of engagement, youth empowerment and community development.

FCMB has been a

prominent sponsor of COPA Lagos from inception.

“We appreciate the quality of entertainment, the fun and the rhythm which the beach soccer tournament brings to our customers and other stakeholders. Beyond music, fashion shows and beach parties that form part of the annual sporting event, Copa Lagos provides a good opportunity for FCMB to demonstrate its corporate social responsibility ” says Ikechukwu Kalu, Group Head, Marketing and Communications, FCMB.

NFF praises Uduaghan, Deltans, delegates

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RESIDENT of Nigeria Football Federation, Alhaji Aminu Maigari, has heaped encomiums on the Executive Governor of Delta State, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan, CON, the Delta State Government, the good people of Delta State and all invited guests and delegates who graced the highly successful 69th General Assembly of Nigeria football in Warri on Thursday.

Speaking in Abuja,

Maigari said the General Assembly would not have been as successful and glorious without the earnest commitment and

conducive environment for the annual assembly of those who matter in the Nigeria game.

Toure Continues from B/P

•Uduaghan

Emenike Continues from B/P his impressive form for the Yellow Canaries by getting on the score sheet for his fifth League goal of the season, is expected to be handed a lengthy ban and possibly a fine when the Turkish Football Federation meet this week to decide on incidents arising from the weekend’s matches.

Selçuk Sahan broke the deadlock in the ninth minute to put the visitors in front but Emenike restored parity three minutes later.

Mousa Sow struck inside the 37th minute to put the home side in front but sloppy defending by Fenerbahce allowed Hugo Almeida two goals in three minutes to handBesiktas a 3-2 lead at half time.

Emenike’s call for a

dedication of the persons who were there, as well as the Delta State Government that provided all the facilities and

penalty soon after was dismissed by referee Cuneyt Cakir, who saw nothing wrong with a tackle from Besiktas’ Tomas Sivok in the box.

Emenike then appeared to head-butt Sivok as he squared up with the defender to press home his point and was lucky to get away with just a yellow card.

Fenerbahce’s pressure and persistency eventually paid off inside the remaining seven minutes of the tie as Dutch international Dirk Kuyt drew them level.

The bad-tempered contest match saw both sides reduced to 10 men with Fernerbahce’s Raul Meireles receiving a straight red card in the 30th minute while Necip Uysal was dismissed for a second booking in the 69th minute.

and Jonathan Pitroipa to this year’s crown.

The 30-year-old told BBC Sport: “I think I’ve been nominated for five years in a row and finally winning the award is amazing.

Continue reading the main story “It’s a fantastic achievement because I don’t think there has

ever been as many quality African players in top-level international football as there are now: Aubameyang, Pitroipa, Mikel, Moses, Salomon Kalou, Gervinho... we have fantastic players.

“I also think African football is improving and that means a lot to us.

And as an African, I’m very happy.”

32 states to participate in 2013 National Youth Games

T

HIRTY-TWO States including the FCT have confirmed their participation in the forthcoming under-17 National Youth Games (NYG) scheduled to begin in Abuja on Thursday, Dec. 5.

Alhassan Yakmut, the Chairman of the Local Organising Committee (LOC) for the games, confirmed this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja.

According to Yakmut, the participation was confirmed at the end of the Delegate Registration Meeting

(DRM) organised by the technical subcommittee in November in Abuja.

Yakmut, who is also the Director, Grassroots Sports Development at the National Sports Commission, told NAN that Zamfara state had indicated interest to participate in the games in spite of its absence at the DRM. “Already we have confirmed participation from 32 States including the FCT with the total number of 4080 athletes and officials being expected for the 14 different sports.

VANGUARD, TUESDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2013

BBC Award: Toure beats Mikel, Moses

Y

AYA Toure has won the 2013 BBC African Footballer of the Year award.

The Ivory Coast and Manchester City midfielder, who had

been nominated in each of the past four years, beat Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Victor Moses, John Mikel Obi Continues on page 55

Keshi’s salary: Jonathan rescues NFF •Obuh, others to benefit

Brazil 2014: Nigeria must be realistic says Keshi

P

RESIDENT Goodluck Jonathan has approved N280 million for the payment of outstanding salaries of national team coaches led by Stephen Keshi.

This payment, which was approved on Friday, will cover not just the Super Eagles coaches, but other national team coaches like former Flying Eagles handler John Obuh.

“The memo from the minister of sports is about 280 million naira to cover for all the coaches in the Super Eagles who are being owed about seven months or so,” a source in the Presidency i n f o r m e d MTNFootball.com “The amount also includes the outstanding owed former Flying Eagles coach John Obuh.”

Obuh’s unpaid salaries are put at over 25 million Naira and date back to 2010. This year, the former Flying Eagles coach petitioned the Senate over his unpaid salaries.

S

TEPHEN Keshi has said Nigeria must be realistic about next year ’s World Cup after top officials had suggested a semi-final target for the team.

The Super Eagles will go to Brazil as African champions, but they

Continues on page 55

Emenike faces ban E

MMANUEL Emenike faces disciplinary action after the Fenerbahce forward appeared to have headbutted Besiktas captain Tomas Sivok during Saturday ’s badtempered 3-3 home draw on Saturday.

The Super Eagles forward, who continued Continues on page 55

•Keshi

Iheanacho’s WC hopes dashed

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IGERIA head coach Stephen Keshi has heaped praise on Kelechi Iheanacho but admits there is little

chance of him making the Super Eagles’ 2014 World Cup squad.

Iheanacho was immense for Nigeria in

PUZZLE

their U17 World Cup triumph, scoring six goals and winning the

Continues on page 55

•Emenike

QUICK CROSSWORD

Sudoku TODAY'S

have failed to go past the Round of 16 in their previous four outings at the global soccer showpiece event.

And Keshi has said ahead of Friday’s World Cup draw in Brazil that the tournament will be

YESTER DAY'S YESTERDAY'S

ANSWERS

ACROSS 1 Rank (6) 5 Grow (6) 8 May (8) 9 Unusual (4) 10 Breach (3) 12 Aptitude (5) 15 Permit (3) 17 Meadow (3) 18 Sheep (3) 19 Epoch (3) 20 Subject (5) 21 Vehicle (3) 22 Wrath (3) 23 Expire (3) 24 Lair (3) 26 Journal (5) 29 Regret (3) 33 Scorch (4) 34 School masterly (8) 35 Drive (6) 36 Ejected (6)

DOWN 2 Headdress (5) 3 Ballet-skirt (4) 4 Seat (5) 5 Boredom (5) 6 Harbour (4) 7 Courage (5) 10 Avarice (5) 11 Unadorned (5) 12 Doomed (50 13 Stadium (5) 14 Shrill (5) 15 Bar (5) 16 Taut (5) 25 Annaesthetic (5) 27 Force (5) 28 Wireless (5) 30 Combine (5) 31 Grasp (4) 32 Responsibility (4)

YESTERDAY'S SOLUTIONS ACROSS: 1, User 4, Aim 6, Pert 8, Pilfer 9, Notice 10, Add 12, Offer 14, Cloud 15, Count 18, Litter 20, Opened 24, Noted 26, Scarce 28, Timid 30, Eft 32, Victim 33, Raised 34, Hero 35, Tap 36, Gate.

DOWN: 2, Stiff 3, Reflect 4, Aura 5, Mind 6, Petal 7, Recluse 11, Don 12, Oil 13, Roe 16, Urn 17, Tot 19, Incline 21, Pet 22, Editing 23, Dud 25, Off 27, Ratio 29, Inept 30, Emit 31, Trip.

How to Play Sudoku

P

lace a number (1-9) in each blank cell. (No line can have two of the same number).

Each row (nine lines from left to right), column, (also nine lines from top to bottom) and 3 X 3 block within a bold block (nine blocks) contains number from 1 through 9. This means that no number can appear twice in any block, column or row.

No mathematics is involved – no adding, subtraction, division or multiplication, just plain logic and your imagination.

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