Fuel scarcity gets worse nationwide

...towards a better life for the people

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VOL. 25: NO. 62348

N150

TUESDAY, MARCH 3, 2015

Dangote remains Africa's richest man 9

Fuel scarcity gets worse nationwide •Banks refuse marketers Letters of Credit •FG owes additional N6.5bn from pump price reduction •NNPC releases 58 million litres to Lagos •DPR identifies 3 million litres shortfall in lifting 51 •PDP accuses APC of sabotage

nside See I

INEC supports use of military for 52 elections

ONLINE | www.vanguardngr.com

By Clara Nwachukwu & Michael Eboh

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BUJA—AS fuel scarcity bites harder nationwide, fresh facts emerged, yesterday, indicating that a combination of policies from Nigeria’s Central Bank and the high level of indebtedness of product marketers to some banks led to the low supply of Premium Motor Spirit PMS (petrol).

Because of the high level of indebtedness of Continues on page 5

COLUMNISTS: Why Nigerians must reject the second coming •P.17 of Buhari

Politicking with National Security •P.35

Mr & Mrs FUEL SCARCITY— Motorists queuing for fuel in Abuja, yesterday. Inset: Group Managing Director, NNPC, Dr Joseph Dawha (R), briefing newsmen during an assessment visit to Total Filling Station, Herbert Macauley Way, Abuja. Left is the station's dealer, Mr Francis Sule. Photos: Gbemiga Olamikan.

Troops liberate Nigeria's economic growth 30 communities rate points in Yobe, kill 73 downwards —Bloomberg 9 terrorists 8 C M Y K

3,000 displaced from Ogodobiri community See Inside cry for help

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POCKET CARTOON

UNVEILING—President Goodluck Jonathan (2nd left) in handshake

with Chairman, PDP Board of Trustees, Chief Tony Anenih (2nd right), while the Senate President, Senator David Mark (left); Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives, Emeka Ihedioha (right) and others watch during the unveiling of the PDP Volunteer Scheme at the State House Conference Centre, Presidential Villla, Abuja, yesterday. Photo: Abayomi Adeshida.

Fuel scarcity gets worse Continues from page 1 marketers to banks, most of the banks have refused to issue Letters of Credit to them. A competent source at the Petroleum Products Pricing Regulatory Agency, PPPRA, disclosed that “the National Consumption level is predicated at 40 million litres daily and this is shared at ratio 50:50 between NNPC and other petroleum products marketers.

“Against the foregoing, available record shows that at the moment, NNPC is meeting its allocated ratio while other marketers have blatantly refused to contribute a drop of their own quota”.

The Federal Government, in a bid to arrest the situation is now seeking ways and means to pay off about N100 billion accruing from foreign exchange differentials and bank interest charges from fuel imports.

The move followed refusal by banks to extend any further credit to oil marketers until a substantial part of the N264 billion, including the foreign exchange differentials and interest

charges have been paid.

The N264 billion is the total invoice so far submitted to government by oil marketers for subsidy reimbursement as at January end. The amount is largely sourced from the banks, a development that worried the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, which directed banks to rein in their exposures to the energy sector — oil, gas, and power to avoid another round of distress in the system.

The figure is still rising as government is also meant to reimburse them about N6.5 billion more, representing the N10/litre shortfall suffered by the marketers from existing stock on account of reduction in the pump price for PMS from N97 to N87/litre on January 19.

Stock level so far in all the depots exclusively obtained

by Vanguard from Calabar, Warri, Lagos and Port Harcourt zones excluding Ejigbo, was put in excess of 6.49billion litres, and will rise more once all the figures have been collated.

The stock mostly belongs to the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation and Pipelines and Products

TAKE HEART

BY ELLA RANDLE

Sorry is a question that begs forgiveness, because the metronome of a good heart won’t settle until things are set right and true. Sorry doesn’t take things back, but it pushes things forward. It bridges the gap. Sorry is a sacrament. It’s an offering. A gift —Craig Silvey

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AY “I’m sorry” when you make a mistake and “thank you” as much as you can. These words are so simple, yet so often people overlook the importance of saying them. Everyone makes mistakes, and everyone knows that. It’s not when you make a mistake that’s a problem; it’s when you make a mistake and are too proud or embarrassed to be vulnerable, fess up, and apologize.

Just say “I’m sorry” and let another person forgive you, so you can move on, and eventually get what you want. Conversely, sincere gratitude to people is a powerful emotion to convey, and opens up many doors. This is really about learning to have a deep appreciation for others which invariably bring about better human relations.

Marketing Company, NNPC/PPMC — 123,777,613.50 litres; Independents 459,264,602.50; and Majors - 66,211,473.00.

Against this backdrop, Minister of Finance, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, met with the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, and bank

chiefs last week in Lagos, to plead with them to continue to support the oil marketers to enable them bring in more products, since the nation’s refineries cannot rise to the challenge of meeting domestic demand.

However, a party to the meeting confided in Vanguard that “the body language of the banks did not show that they wanted to do anything until government acted.”

Accordingly, government is being forced to pay off N100 billion out of the N264 billion owed marketers as quickly as possible to enable them bring in more products, which it promised to offset up till the end of March.

Lagos gets 58 million litres

While waiting for government to begin to offset the outstanding debts, the NNPC has released about 58 million litres to Lagos, to be distributed through the six major marketers, NIPCO and Aiteo.

Confirming the development, Executive Secretary, Major Oil Marketers Association of Nigeria, MOMAN, Mr. Obafemi Olawore, told Vanguard on telephone that government had agreed to

SUMMARY OF STOCK TAKING OF PMS AT ALL DEPOTS ON JANUARY 19, 2015 CALABAR ZONE REPORT RECEIVED CATEGORY PMS QTY. GOV (LTRS) NNPC/PPMC 6,839,736.00 MAJOR MARKETERS INDEPENDENT MARKETERS 112408,933.00 TOTAL 118,948,669.000

WARRI ZONE REPORT RECEIVED CATEGORY PMS QTY. GOV (LTRS) NNPC/PPMC MAJOR MARKETERS INDEPENDENT MARKETERS 50,089,548.00 TOTAL 50,089,548.000

LAGOS ZONE REPORT RECEIVED CATEGORY NNPC/PPMC* MAJOR MARKETERS INDEPENDENT MARKETERS

PMSQTY.GOV(LTRS) 111,295,911.000 48,109,350.000

273,322,032.000 432,727,293.000 (EXCLUDES EJIGBO DEPOT FIGURES WHICH ARE UNDER COLLATION) TOTAL

PORT HARCOURT ZONE REPORT RECEIVED CATEGORY NNPC/PPMC MAJOR MARKETERS INDEPENDENT MARKETERS TOTAL

PMSQTY.GOV(LTRS) 5,641,966.503 18,102,123.000 23,744,089.503 47,488,179.006

OVERALL SUMMARY CATEGORY NNPC/PPMC MAJOR MARKETERS INDEPENDENT MARKETERS TOTAL

PMS QTY. GOV (LTRS) 123,777,613.50 66,211,473.00 459,264,602.50 649,253,689.006

pay the N100 billion imeediately.

He also urged banks, “to open letters of credit, LCs, to marketers, while the CBN should also approve our Forms M with dispatch.”

He pleaded with the NNPC to continue to supply the marketers with petrol, pending when they are able to bring in their vessels.

Agreeing, spokesman for the NNPC, Mr. Ohi Alegbe, confirmed to Vanguard that NNPC would continue to supply these set of marketers until their products came.

Tackling the crisis

Meanwhile, as the scarcity situation worsens

in Lagos and Abuja, the Department of Petroleum Resources, DPR, the industry regulator, has threatened to deploy law enforcement agents to petrol stations found to be hoarding fuel across the country and compel them to sell to motorists at the regulated price.

Speaking during a visit to some fuel stations in the Central Business District of the FCT, Director, DPR, Mr. George Osahon, warned that the DPR will not hesitate to sanction any marketer found engaging in sharp practices, especially in the hoarding of the product and in manipulation of prices.

Osahon was also accompanied by the Group Managing Director of the NNPC, Mr. Joseph Dawha, Executive Secretary of the Petroleum Products Pricing and Regulatory Agency, PPPRA, Mr. Farouk Ahmed; and the Managing Director, PPMC, Prince Haruna Momoh.

Continuing, Osahon said: “We are going to make sure that those people who are possibly hoarding fuel, don’t hoard fuel. We will try as much as possible to minimise the number of petrol stations to be shut down. For anybody who hoards, we will get law enforcement agents to go in there and make sure that they are forced to sell and sell at regulated prices, and we are doing that in filling stations across the country to ensure this crisis eases off as soon as possible.”

Similarly, Dawha assured that the fuel scarcity situation will ease by tomorrow, as the

corporation is working hard to ensure that the crisis is nipped in the bud, adding that the situation was gradually returning to normal, and hoped that within the next two days, supply will be normalised.

He said the NNPC is working with the PPMC, PPPRA and DPR, to ensure increase in the supply of petrol across the country.

Also speaking, Momoh, lamented the absence of effective pipeline network, due to the continuous vandalism of pipelines across the country, saying it is a major challenge to fuel distribution across the country.

He also assured that supply to fuel situations will normalise over the next few days as, according to him, supply is improving with the arrival of a number of fuel vessels over the weekend, while more are expected to arrive in the next couple of days.

He further stated that the PPMC is expanding its depot across the country, adding will commission two of the depots in a few days’ time.

He said, “Despite the increase in our depots, we have to make sure that our pipelines work. When they work, fuel distribution across the country will be much easier,” and advised Nigerians not to engage in panic buying, as the situation has been brought under control.

Speaking with Vanguard earlier, Head, Public Affairs Unit, DPR, Abuja, Mr. Mohammed Saidu, attributed the scarcity recorded in the last one week in Abuja and environs to a three million litre shortfall in product lifting from the Suleja depot.

He said, “When we looked at the trend of lifting at the depot, we knew as a regulator that queues will soon start to surface. We quickly went into action; we drafted a team to go out on the various routes within the FCT and environs.

“The lifting has dropped, because for the past three days, the highest that came out from the Suleja depot is about four million litres of PMS. Sometimes, during scarcity like this, we need about seven million litres to make sure the market is saturated. So clearly, there is a decline in lifting.

6—Vanguard, TUESDAY, MARCH 3, 2015

Herbalist, client in war of words over N500,000 fee

By Evelyn Usman & Esther Onyegbula

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mild drama unfolded at the Igando Police Division, weekend, after a 48-year-old herbalist, who was arrested for allegedly defrauding a 70-year-old woman of N500,000, engaged the complainant in a war of words.

Describing claims that he defrauded the 70-year-old woman as a lie, the suspect, Akin Babalola, placed his index finger on the ground, touched his tongue with same finger before lifting it to the sky, an expression, he said, was to indicate that he was saying the truth.

According to the Ogun State-born herbalist: “The complainant (names withheld) came to my house and asked that I prepare a love potion for her to win back her husband.

“She told me that her husband abandoned her for another woman, thereby saddling her with the responsibility of bringing up their children alone.”

However, trouble reportedly started after she waited for the supposed love potion in vain. The woman was said to have asked the herbalist to refund her money, but he refused and threatened, instead, to expose her.

Consequently, the matter was reported at the Igando Division leading to Babalola’s arrest.

Asked why he failed to keep his own side of the bargain, Babalola said “I do not want to incur God’s wrath because the love potion could lead to the man’s death.”

The woman insisted that the herbalist collected the money under false pretence.

The police charged Babalola to court on a three-count charge of felony, obtaining under false pretence and stealing.

He pleaded not guilty and Magistrate M. Folami, granted him N200,000 bail with two sureties in like sum and adjourned till May 18.

20 docked over Oshodi mayhem

By Bartholomew Madukwe & Victor Ogunsola

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HE Police in Lagos have arraigned five teenagers and 15 men before an Oshodi magistrate’s court in the state for allegedly causing riot at Oshodi.

The teenagers are Alagbe Kehinde, 18; Ayeni Oluwasegun, 19; Kasali Tunde, 19; Babatunde Sodiq, 19 and Olawale Soliu, 19.

Other accused persons include Abiodun Adeleke, 31; Segun Owoseni, 24; Ojo Moruf,

23; Oguntade Sunday, 23; Segun Adeniyi, 20; Dare Abiodun, 23; Femi Bode, 23; Segun Adewale, 23; Hamzat Ibrahim, 20; Samson Oluwatade, 27; Anifowose John, 27; Wasiu Adebayo, 20; Yusuf Salami, 23; Ibrahim Saka, 20; and Adejoku Rasheed, 21.

According to the charges, the accused persons stole 80 different types of phones belonging to one Adekunle Adebayo.

The accused persons were also said to have unlawfully been in possession of a cutlass,

& Victor Ogunsola

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HE police in Lagos have charged a 44-year-old man, Yusuf Mustapha, before an Ikeja Magistrate’s Court for

The accused persons were arraigned on a seven-count charge of conspiracy, riot, unlawful possession of cutlass, stealing and destroying property.

However, when the offences were read to the accused persons before Magistrate Akeem Fashola, they pleaded not guilty.

The magistrate granted the accused persons bail in the sum of N100,00, with two sureties who would have paid tax for a period of three years, and adjourned the case to March 24.

Police intercept bus-load of Kaduna-bound Army uniform

By Chinenyeh Ozor

z‘We usually transport goods without knowing contents’

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SUKKA—POLICEMEN attached to the National Task Force, NATFORCE, at Amalla in Udenu Local Government Area of Enugu State have intercepted several dozens of army uniforms and camouflage being conveyed from Aba to Kaduna State.

Vanguard gathered that the items were found in a luxury bus registered under Trade Union Congress of Nigeria, TUC, as a Federal Government-Assisted Mass Transit, with number plate KUJ 745XA. The bus had a few passengers on board, but was stopped by policemen on a stop-and-search duty at the Enugu-Makurdi Expressway.

The policemen had to shatter one of the windows to compel the driver to stop and then searched the vehicle to make the discovery.

It was dicovered that army

The cargo. camouflage were mixed up with regular ones worn by officers from second lieutenant to generals on peace keeping missions.

The driver of the vehicle, who

identified himself as Philip Tsaku, aged 42, from Nassarawa State, on interrogation said he was not aware of the uniform.

He said he returned from Lagos the previous night, only

Commercial buses kill 13-yr-old banana hawker, 2 others

By Chidi Nkwopara

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WERRI—NO fewer than three persons, including a 13-year-old banana hawker, were reported dead, while more than nine others sustained varying degrees of injuries in two separate road crashes in Imo State, weekend.

At Irete, Owerri West council, a 70-year-old man, identified as Elder Ndukwu Nlemadim, and

his seven-year-old granddaughter, were reportedly crushed by a bus of a popular transport firm.

Villagers told Vanguard that they were on their way to Sunday service when the vehicle hit them at top speed.

A villager said: “Elder Ndukwu, who was fondly called Uwankaa and his granddaughter died instantly.

The two corpses have been

Man, 44, charged to court for rings theft

By Bartholomew Madukwe

and willfully damaged a vehicle with number plate XA 733 SRE by breaking all the glasses.

One of the counts read: “That you and others, now at large, on February 19, at about 2pm at Oshodi in the Ikeja Magisterial District, did set fire and burnt Mazda bus with number plate MUS 07 XC, valued N2 million, property of one Akinwale Aluko.”

Police prosecutor, Mr Kehinde Olatunde, said the offence was punishable under Section 348 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, Nigeria, 2011.

allegedly stealing a box of silver rings belonging to one Ibrahim Sani.

He was accused of committing the offence at 30, Moricas Street, Dopemu, Agege area of Lagos.

Magistrate Abimbola Komolafe granted the accused N100,00 bail with two sureties that are blood relatives and should have paid tax for the period of three years; and adjourned the case to April 2.

deposited in one of the hospitals in Owerri, while the driver of the vehicle reported himself to Ogbaku, the nearest police station.”

The second accident took place at Umuaka, Njaba council, where a Toyota Hiace bus belonging to another transport firm, crushed a 13year-old female hawker.

A villager, who narrated the incident to Vanguard, recalled that the deceased, who was said to be a native of Umuezikeukwu Ukuama, was hawking banana and oranges.

The villager also recalled that the vehicle with number plate UBT 288 XA, knocked down a commercial motorcyclist, who was probably waiting for passengers.

to be asked to proceed to Kaduna after the goods had been loaded without his knowledge.

He said the way bill note was given to the conductor with phone numbers and names of the owners in Kaduna.

The conductor, who was identified as Boka Adamu,37, said he was only given the way bill and was not told the content.

Adamu said: “My duty is only that when we reach Kaduna, I will call numbers on the way bill and they will come and collect the goods. The owners of the goods paid for them at our Aba office.”

He also noted that they usually dropped goods in Kaduna, Zaria, Abuja and finally Kano, without knowing the contents of the goods.

He explained that names in the way bill included Ngozi, Kaduna; Festus Ibag, Kaduna; Sanni Zaria, Zaria; Paul, Kaduna, and Yahaya, Kano.

It would be recalled that sometime last year, such military uniforms were intercepted at the same point with 21 persons suspected to be members of Boko Haram.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, MARCH 3, 2015—7

Man accused of kidnap attempt acquitted

Elders lament plight of Enugu Daily Star staff

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By Onozure Dania

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AGOS—MAGISTRATE Abimbola Komolafe of an Ikeja Magistrate’s Court has struck out a two-count criminal charge filed by the police against one Adebayo Orekoya over alleged attempt to kidnap a Lagos socialite, Adelekun Victor, popularly known as Ade Lexus.

The police had in August 2014, arraigned Orekoya over allegation that he conspired with other persons also standing trial in another court to attempt to kidnap Ade Victor.

The offence, according to the police, is punishable under Sections 271 and 410 of the criminal laws of Lagos State of Nigeria, 2011.

During Orekoya’s arraignment, he insisted he was innocent of the crime and pleaded not guilty to the charge.

However, after several adjournments caused by the failure of prosecution witnesses and the Police Investigating Officer, IPO, to appear before the court, Magistrate, Komolafe struck out the case for lack of diligent prosecution.

Reacting to the court ruling, Orekoya’s counsel, Terry Badmus, said his client was only being persecuted for sending some boys to trail Ade who he claimed was sending love messages to his wife.

He said his client’s intention for trailing Ade was to warn him to desist from sending such messages to his wife.

Badmus said his client’s discharge by the court was a justification that the police cooked up the attempted kidnapping charge against him.

Fire Outbreak at 12, Ereko Street, Idumota, Lagos. AFP PHOTO.

Four dead in P-Harcourt, as Police engage robbers in gun battle

By Jimitota Onoyume

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ORT HARCOURT—FOUR persons lost their lives, yesterday, in a gun battle between Police and armed robbers at Agip area of Port Harcourt.

Details at press time were sketchy, but the state Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ahmad Muhammad, confirmed the development to the Vanguard.

According to him, the police

acted on a tip-off that robbers were in a hotel in the area and stormed the spot.

He said: “Our men stormed the hideout of an armed robbery gang that specializes in car snatching. As gun battle ensued, they went on sporadic shooting while escaping, killing four persons.”

Muhammad said police recovered six vehicles, a spray machine gun and seven dynamites from the robbers.

In a related development,

NIPP staff electrocuted in Imo

By Chidi Nkwopara & Chinonso Alozie

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WERRI—THE people of Azaraegbelu in Owerri North Local Government Area of Imo State, were thrown into confusion and deep mourning yesterday, following the electrocution of a 48-year-old security staff of Nigerian Independent Power Project, NIPP. The deceased NIPP staff, who was identified as Festus

Egbujor, from Onum kindred of the community, reportedly died while cleaning the substation of the NIPP panel scheduled for commissioning, as directed by his superiors.

A villager said: “I was here with Festus, who was a member of my age grade, as he began to clean the substation. All of a sudden, he began to shout blood of Jesus, blood of Jesus and later kept quiet.

“It was at this point that I

4 kidnappers nabbed in Bauchi, victim rescued

By Suzan Edeh

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AUCHI—BAUCHI State police command yesterday announced the arrest of four suspected kidnappers after rescuing from them three-yearold Abdulkadir Salmanu.

The Police Public Relations Officer, Deputy Superintendent of Police, Haruna Mohammed, said in a release that the suspects were arrested by police detectives attached to Police Township Division in the state.

unconfirmed source said a chieftain of All Progressives Congress, APC, in the state was shot in Bakana, Degema Local Government Area.

When Vanguard called the publicity secretary of the party in the state, Mr. Chris Finebone, he said he was not aware of the incident.

However, a community source insisted the state executive member of the party was shot, but could not provide details.

The suspects arrested include Salisu Abdullahi Salmanu, 19; Imrana Abdullahi, 17; Abdullahi Mohammed and Umar Musa, 19.

Mohammed said the suspects conspired with four others now at large to kidnap the threeyears-old boy of Kofar Idi in Bauchi and took him to Gwallameji and demanded N10 million ransom from the parents.

He said: “On February 28, at about 12pm, police detectives

attached to the Police Township Division arrested four suspects for kidnapping a three-year-old boy, Abdulkadir Salmanu, and demanded a ten million ransom from his parents.

“The suspects were arrested by the police detectives attached to Police Township Division in the state, following a tip-off from some residents in the state.”

He said the victim was liberated by the police, adding that effort was on to apprehend other fleeing suspects.

went in and saw him lying motionless.”

Gloom pervaded the area when Vanguard visited the scene of the incident, but the remains of Mr. Egbujor had reportedly been moved to an undisclosed hospital morgue.

A senior staff of Owerri Business Office of Enugu Electricity Distribution Company, EEDC, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the deceased was not a staff.

The official said: “We do not have the full details of what happened at Azaraegbelu. The project is still that of NIPP. It has not been handed over to EEDC. “It was being readied for commissioning and possible handover before the incident happened.”

However, when the Police Public Relations Officers, PPRO, in the state, Mr. Andrew Enwerem, a Deputy Superintendent of Police, DSP, was contacted, he denied knowledge of the incident but promised to investigate it and get back to Vanguard.

ONCERNED Elders of Enugu State have appealed to Governor Sullivan Chime to urgently intervene over the pitiable condition of employees of Daily Star, one of the foremost newspapers that played a key role in the country ’s pre-and post independent struggle.

The elders, who spoke through a release by their Coordinator, Chief E. Akubue, said: “The workers are passing through excruciating hardship as they have not been enjoying their full salaries.

“Their promotions have not attracted financial value since 2007. The arrears of salaries owed these staff are unbelievable.

“The affected workers are yet to benefit from the minimum wage which the governor started paying workers of Enugu State since August 2011.”

Notorious bag snatcher nabbed in Lagos

By Esther Onyegbula

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HE Lagos State Police command has nabbed a notorious bag snatcher operating around Maryland, Anthony and its environs.

Vanguard learned that the 22-year-old suspect, whose father is the taxi park chairman at Maryland, specialized in robbing victims in the early hours of the day.

It was gathered that on February 10, at about 5:30am the suspect, around Maryland Bus Stop, attacked a woman with a kitchen knife, snatched her handbag containing her phones, identity card, ATM card, PVC, undisclosed amount of money and other valuable documents.

At about 8:30am, the victim and her husband went to the Anthony Divisional Police Station to report the case. A police officer was detailed to inspect the scene.

The suspect was caught, the victim’s bag recovered empty around the area, with the contents littering the surrounding.

8—Vanguard, TUESDAY, MARCH 3, 2015

Don’t allow opposition intimidate you, Jonathan tells PDP candidates

By Ben Agande

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BUJA — PRESIDENT Goodluck Jonathan, yesterday, encouraged candidates of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in the forthcoming elections not to be intimidated by opposition candidates and parties who had nothing to show.

As evidence of the superior achievements of the PDP governors, the President said it was only in PDP controlled states that he had been able to see quality Government Houses and Presidential Lodges.

The President spoke at the launching of Ward Volunteering Scheme at the Presidential Villa, yesterday.

Noting that the party had done well at all levels of government, the President said: “It is only in PDP states that things are working. If I compare the quality of Government Houses and Presidential Lodges, the ones in PDP states are better in quality, even state universities opened by PDP states are better "The PDP states are committed to education, but sometimes people come and say we have done nothing, and the intimidation is more to the extent that even in the states where we are more, where we even have PDP governors, they come to intimidate us, and we have to resolve that we cannot allow people who are not up to us to intimidate us.

“Well, at the national level we cannot compare our standards with theirs, because they have not had the experience and we will not give them the opportunity, but I know they will not do well.

PDP is the only party that can bring about peace in this country. And I always say that when you see people talking and you see the bitterness in their hearts, you see the frustration, the anger, and you see them as people who are already feeling guilty. If you don’t have a forgiving heart, if you don’t have a clean heart you cannot rule Nigeria, because you cannot give out what you don’t have.”

According to the President, what has affected the fortune of the party is the inability of its members to market the party and its achievements to Nigerians, detailing the achievements that the party has recorded in all sector across the three tiers of government.

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Bloomberg marks down economic growth rate for Nigeria

By Emeka Anaeto

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AGOS — DESPITE the seeming glimpse of recoveries recorded last week in Nigeria’s economy, global study report by Bloomberg is pointing to a decline in the forecast growth for 2015.

However, the report indicated that Nigerian economy will rank among the world’s top 20 fastest growing in 2015.

According to the report, Nigeria’s economy will expand by 4.9 per cent, indicating a significant mark down from Nigeria’s finance ministry estimate of 5.5 per cent. The finance ministry had earlier this year also marked down its initial estimated growth rate from 6.4

per cent.

The series of mark downs were reflecting the major decline in government revenue occasioned by the crash in oil prices and other negative developments in the domestic and international markets.

In a release last week, Bloomberg ranked Nigeria number six among world’s projected top 20 fastest growing economies in 2015 with Kenya coming number three in the ranking which has the two countries representing Africa in the top 20 growth rates, 2015 revised forecast.

Incidentally, both countries have similar socio-economic fundamentals including wide-

spread poverty and high youth unemployment with Kenya, according to the report, showing 40 per cent of its citizens living below poverty line.

Last week, the international price of Nigeria’s main revenue earner, oil, showed signs of stability inching up to USD62 while the stock market showed a significant recovery from persistent bull run.

China and Philipines occupied numbers one and two respectively in the global growth rate forecast while India and Indonesia came fourth and fifth respectively.

The world economy is expected to grow 3.2 per cent in 2015 and 3.7 per cent next year after expanding 3.3 per cent in

each of the past two years, according to the Bloomberg survey.

China, the Philippines, Kenya, India and Indonesia, which together make up about 16 per cent of global gross domestic product, are all forecast to grow more than 5 per cent in 2015.

By comparison, the US and UK, which combined account for about a quarter of global growth, are expected to grow 3.1 per cent and 2.6 per cent this year, respectively. The euro area probably will expand just 1.2 per cent as European Central Bank President Mario Draghi deals with a fragile Greece and embarks on a bond-purchase program to stimulate the region’s growth.

POLLS: Court declines to stop INEC from using card reader machines zHears substantive suit March 10

By Ikechukwu Nnochiri

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BUJA — THE Federal High Court sitting in Abuja, yesterday, declined to issue an ex-parte order stopping the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, from deploying Card Reader Machines, CRM, for the conduct of the forthcoming general elections.

Instead of granting the exparte motion which was filed by four political parties— United Democratic Party (UDP), Action Alliance (AA), Allied Congress Party of Nigeria (ACPN) and Alliance for Democracy (AD)— Justice Ademola Adeniyi ordered the plaintiffs to put INEC on notice to enable it appear in court on March 10 to enter its arguments for or against the substantive suit.

Even though Justice Adeniyi observed that the plaintiffs had through their team of lawyers, comprising three Senior Advocates of Nigeria, SANs, led by Dr. Alex Iziyon, fulfilled all condition precedents and made out case to warrant the grant of their motion, he said the tenets of justice would be better served if all the parties are allowed to fully address the court on the matter.

“There is no loss that the plaintiffs will suffer if the defendant (INEC) is given the chance to respond to the issues raised. This court feels that it is fair that the defendant be given the opportunity to be heard,”Adeniyi ruled.

Nevertheless, the court granted an order for the abridgment of time within which INEC which is the sole defendant in the suit, could respond to the case, even as it also okayed an accelerated

FORUM: Minister of Finance, Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala (left), receiving documents of 10 million signatures for peaceful election from Director General, National Orientation Agency, NOA, Mr Mike Omeri (right), at the Stakeholders Conversation On Communicating Government Policies, Programmes And Activities In Abuja, yesterday. In the middle is Minister of Works, Mr Mike Onolememen. Photo: NAN. hearing of the matter.

The electoral body was directed to within four days of receiving the relevant copies of the processes that were filed by the plaintiffs, file its defence.

The plaintiffs' prayers

Specifically, the plaintiffs are, among other things, seeking an interim order restraining INEC from proceeding with arrangement and plan to use the CRM for the impending elections.

They are praying the court for “an order of interim injunction restraining the defendant, its agents, servants, privies or assigns, by whatever name, from implementing or commencing or further implementing or further commencing or directing or

further directing the use and preparation of the Card Reader Machine or any name of like nature, pending the hearing and determination of the motion on notice.”

Arguing through their lawyer, the plaintiffs maintained that the decision of INEC to deploy card readers for the election was a violation of the provision of Section 52(1) (2) which prohibits the use of any electronic method of voting in the country.

Iziyon further contended that the deployment of card reader for voters’ verification could pass as electronic voting.

They hinged their prayers on the grounds that INEC had earlier published a Manual for Election Officials 2015 and its Approved Guidelines and Regulations for the conduct of the 2015 general elections, to

help election officials to learn all aspects of polling to enable them face the challenge and answer questions that may arise on the day of election.

They noted that sometime in January 2015, INEC made its intention known to all registered political parties and registered voters to use card readers for the election.

The plaintiff insisted that the use of card reader machine for the forthcoming election is not in conformity with the Electoral Act 2010 (as amended) and that their members across the country who have been enlightened on the accreditation procedure as contained in the Electoral Act 2010 (as amended) would be disenfranchised as they were not educated on the use of the card reader.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, MARCH 3, 2015—9

Troops liberate 30 communities in Yobe zKill 73 terrorists in failed attack on Konduga

By Kingsley Omonobi & Ndahi Marama

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BUJA — NIGERIAN troops have continued their onslaught against Boko Haram terrorists as they liberated 30 communities in Yobe State while 73 terrorists were also killed in Borno State.

In a tweet posted on its handle yesterday, the Defence Headquarters said: “Troops are dominating operations in Kukawa, Geri, Gujba in Yobe to rid the terrorists."

Sources close to epicentre of the battle disclosed that troops have sustained the winning strategy discovered since military authorities requested for a six-week postponement of elections as most of the local governments and communities previously occupied by terrorists in most of the affected states have been liberated.

Last weekend, Nigerian troops routed terrorists from Bara, the headquarters of Gulani Local Government Area of Yobe State and Gulak, the headquarters of Madagali Local Government Area of Adamawa State.

Other locations recovered from the insurgents in the course of the operation are five communities of Shikah, Fikayel, Tetebah, Buza, Kamla and Bumsa.

The troops have also recovered Monguno, Marte, Gamboru Ngala, Dikwa, Baga, Gajigana, Ngaze, Ngenzai, Marte Junction, Yoyo, Kekeno, Kukawa, Cross Kauwa, Kangarwa and Amirari.

Other cleared communities include Monguno, Gabchari, Abba Jabari, Zuntur, Gajigana, Gajiram, Damakar, Kumaliwa, Bosso Wanti, Jeram and Kabrisungul.

73 terrorists killed in Konduga failed attack

Meanwhile, no fewer than 73 terrorists were killed by troops from the 7 Division, Nigerian Army in Konduga Local Government Area of Borno State yesterday, sources said.

Konduga is south east and about 40 kilometres from Maiduguri, the state capital.

The town has witnessed more than 20 different attacks by terrorists since last year which were repelled by troops.

The terrorists who attempted to invade Konduga had disguised as herdsmen as they moved with many cattle.

They were said to have, however, been sighted by the troops at about 7am yesterday while approaching the town before they reportedly opened

fire, targeting troops positioned at different locations in the area.

It was said that “the troops immediately responded by engaging the terrorists who came in large numbers, a situation that led to the killing of 73 of them, while a soldier lost his life in the encounter.”

He added that the encounter

which lasted about six hours, started at about 7am till 1pm.

He noted that during the encounter, a Golf Volkswagen car belonging to the insurgents and loaded with Improvised Explosive Devices, IEDs, were destroyed with the occupants by the troops.

Director of Defence

Information, Major General Chris Olukokade, confirmed the story but did not give casualty figures.

“Yes it is true that troops killed many terrorists in a failed Konduga attack today,” Olukolade said in a text message to journalists in Maiduguri.

MATRICULATION: From left: Deputy Vice Chancellor, Administration, University of Ibadan, Prof. Emilolorun Ayelari; Vice Chancellor, Prof. Isaac Adewole; Provost, College of Medicine, Prof. Babatunde Salako and Director, Distance Learning Centre, University of Ibadan, Prof. Bayo Okunade, at the matriculation of students of the centre in Ibadan, yesterday.

Photo: NAN

Dangote remains Africa richest man zAs Bill Gates remains world's wealthiest

By Omoh Gabriel, Business Editor

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AGOS — ALHAJI Aliko Dangote has remained Africa's richest man despite his losses to the devaluation of the Naira and drops in the demand for cement his largest asset.

According to Forbes margazine, Dangote was this “year’s biggest loser in dollar terms as his fortune dropped to $14.7 billion from $25 billion last year, propelled downward by a weaker Naira and shrinking demand for cement, his largest asset. He still retains the title of Africa’s richest man.

The country that has lost the most ground by far was Russia, which now has 88 billionaires down from 111, less than not just the US and China but now also Germany and India.

According to Forbes' Inside The 2015 Forbes Billionaires List: Facts And Figures, Bill Gates is once again the richest person on the planet, a title he’s held for 16 of the past 21 years.

His fortune grew $3.2 billion since last year to $79.2 billion, despite a gift of $1.5 billion in Microsoft MSFT +0.66 per cent

shares to The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation in November 2014.

Carlos Slim Helu of Mexico comes in again at number two while revered American investor, Warren Buffett, took back the number three spot from Spain’s Amancio Ortega (now number four); not even the largest IPO in history was enough to beat the Oracle of Omaha this year.

Buffett was the list’s biggest gainer, up $14.5 billion to $72.7 billion, thanks to Berkshire Hathaway’s rising share price.

Facebook’s Mark Zuckerberg moves up five spots to number 16, his first time ranked among the world’s 20 richest. Ma and three other Chinese are among the the biggest gainers and appear among the 50 richest on the list.

Zuckerberg is also the leader in a youth revolution that has minted 46 billionaires under the age of 40.

Youngest billionaire

“The youngest billionaire on the planet is Evan Spiegel, 24, co-founder of photo- messaging

app Snapchat. California, driven

by Silicon Valley tech companies, has spawned 23 new billionaires, including cofounders of car-hailing service Uber cofounders Travis Kalanick and Garrett Camp, and their first employee Ryan Graves.

Elizabeth Holmes, who runs blood-testing firm Theranos, debuts on the global list as the youngest self-made woman at age 31. The state now has 131 individuals with 10-figure net worths, more than any other country besides China and the US.

Dangote

“The year’s biggest loser in dollar terms is Aliko Dangote of Nigeria, whose fortune dropped to $14.7 billion from $25 billion last year, propelled downward by a weaker Nigerian currency and shrinking demand for cement, his largest asset. He still retains the title of Africa’s richest man.

The country that has lost the most ground by far was Russia, which now has 88 billionaires down from 111, less than not just the U.S. and China but now also Germany and India.

Total cuts Nigeria's operations; begins massive retrenchment

By Michael Eboh

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BUJA — THE decline in the prices of crude oil in the international market has started to take its toll on the Nigerian oil and gas sector, as Total Nigeria, yesterday, started the process of cutting down its operations in Nigeria, a development which might lead to the sacking of majority of its workforce.

The Abuja operations of the company, it was learnt from staff of the company, has allegedly commenced the process of winding down, with plans to relocate some of the staff to other departments, while majority of the staff will be disengaged.

The company, it was learnt, has been hit badly by the uncertainty in the global oil industry and has agreed to shut down some of its operations across the country and reduce its workforce.

When Vanguard visited the Abuja head office of the company yesterday, all the staff were seen hanging around, while some of the workers said they had been asked to go home and await further correspondence from management of the company.

However, some staff disclosed that it was officials of the workers’ union that shut down the premises, barring senior management officials of the company from their offices.

One of the staff who spoke on condition of anonymity said one of the reasons why the labour officials shut down the premises is due to the alleged plan by the company to sack about half of its workforce without recourse to their terms of engagement.

When Vanguard visited the company and asked to speak with Mr. Chidi Momah, Executive General Manager, Government and Public Relations, security officials attached to the company said he could not be reached.

When Vanguard probed further, a security official said: “There is no one in the office. Everyone has be asked to go home. We are not working today and we don’t know when work will resume."

10— Vanguard, TUESDAY, MARCH 3, 2015

Elections postponement ‘ll cost Nigeria N400bn, says NAHCO boss

By Daniel Eteghe

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AGOS—THE acting Managing Director of the Nigerian Aviation Handling Company, NAHCO, Plc, Mr. Nobert Bielderman, yesterday, said that the postponement of the 2015 general elections for six weeks by the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, will have an adverse impact on the Nigerian economy to the tune of $2bn (over N400bn) loss.

Speaking with newsmen at a day summit organised by NAHCO Plc, Bielderman noted that the devaluation of the naira against the United States dollars would affect the domestic airline operators as they try to procure their spare parts abroad.

According to him, the 2015 elections postponement would lead to Foreign Direct Investment to find their ways to other countries and loss of confidence in Nigerian economy, adding that it will also lead to huge business challenges in the country.

He noted that in respect to the elections, many European countries have placed travel ban on some of their citizens, adding that this will negatively impact the aviation sector in the country.

Bielderman, said: “Elections postponement impact on the economy is analysed to be worth

FUEL QUEUES:

By Olasunkanmi Akoni

AGOS—THE Lagos State Traffic Management Authority, LASTMA, has urged motorists in the habit of obstructing free flow of traffic to exercise restraints by avoiding forming long queues on the main carriage road at petrol stations across state while trying to buy fuel due to scarcity of the Premium Motor Spirit, PMS. LASTMA, said that the warning became necessary as the agency observed that such roads blockade have been constituting traffic gridlocks and causing untold hardship to other road users.

interbank and Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN. He stressed that, there was an urgent need for all stakeholders and professionals in the country to sit together and channel a formidable course of direction that was sustainable in moving the country forward.

VISIT: Group Managing Director, NNPC, Dr. Joseph Dawha (right), MD, Petroleum and Pipelines Marketing Company, PPMC, Prince Haruna Momoh (left), and other officials, during the GMD's assessment visit to Conoil Filling Station, Herbert Macaulay Way in Abuja, yesterday. Photo: NAN.

Speaking on the traffic gridlock being experienced on some roads in the state, the General Manager of LASTMA, Engr. Babatunde Edu, also urged the management of filling stations operators in the state to

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By Innocent Anaba

AGOS—A Federal High Court sitting in Lagos, yesterday, dismissed a nocase submission by 20 suspected pipeline vandals,

application to quash charge

By Abdulwahab Abdulah, Bartholomew Madukwe & Victor Ogunsola

AGOS—JUSTICE Lateef Lawal-Akapo of a Lagos State High Court in Ikeja, yesterday, adjourned till April 13 for ruling on an application by a former Managing Director of Bank PHB, Francis Atuche, seeking to quash the N25.7 billion theft charge preferred against him.

After hearing arguments from defence and prosecution lawyers, Justice Lawal-Akapo fixed the date.

ensure that their customers keep their vehicles off the road and parked in a way that will not disrupt free flow of traffic on the roads.

According to him, right of way and consideration should be

given at all times to other road users who are going about their normal businesses.

He advised vehicle owners on queue at filling stations to always put public interest above their individual interest.

Court dismisses no case submission by 20 suspected pipeline vandals

ALLEGED N25.7BN THEFFT: Court to rule on

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depleted while the national account is currently in deficit, pointing out that the crash in oil price and consequent impact on the nation’s revenue earnings had led to an exchange rate from N155 a dollar to N205 to dollar within a six-month period at the

LASTMA urges motorists to exercise

restraint

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over $2bn as cost and investor loss of confidence for existing and new Foreign Direct Investment that may have found its destination to other countries.”

He added that Nigeria’s foreign reserves was constantly

The defendants (Atuche and his wife, Elizabeth) are being prosecuted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, for allegedly stealing the money from Bank PHB. Atuche and his wife are being prosecuted alongside a former Chief Financial Officer of the bank, Ugo Anyanwu.

Arguing the application, Atuche’s counsel, Mr Tayo Oyetibo, SAN, prayed the court to quash the charge for want of jurisdiction.

who allegedly killed nine policemen in Arepo area of Ikorodu, Lagos State on May 24, 2014.

The officers allegedly killed by the accused persons include ASP Abdullahi Bature, Insp.

Raymond Oriere, Insp. Usman Mohammed, Insp. Tijani Jimoh, Cpl. Elogbamen Timothy, Insp.

Oguntihemen Kolawole, Cpl. Yakubu Aliyu, Cpl. Usman Abdukarim and Cpl. Dauda Mohammed.

The 20 accused persons standing trial are Felix Yayu, Ijoufaya, Yakubu Ebiwei, Augustine Ebiwei, Tamara Dembofa, Owei Atile, Agbara Tiewei, Rufus Godwin, Tiery Koiyetin, Ebis Sobijoh, Ibori Lawrence, Eberebu Ibori, Atinuke Odewale, Fatai Ishola, Ahmed Bashorun, Odewale Waheed, Susan Viana, Tuesday Filatei, Yeiyah Yellow and Ismail Abdullahi.

The suspected vandals, who are being tried before Justice Okon Abang, had filed a nocase submission, praying the court to set them free on the strength of argument that the police had failed to establish prema facie (strong evidence) case against them.

Justice Abang, had compulsorily closed the prosecution’s case owing to the fact that witnesses were not presented before the court after the initial two that testified.

Dissatisfied with the ruling, the police had appealed same and asked for stay of proceedings before the trial court.

But Justice Abang, in his ruling on all the applications before him, dismissed both the no-case submission of the defence and the application for stay of proceedings filed by the prosecution.

Fashola, Mbu, others for PAC seminar in Lagos

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AGOS—GOVERNOR Babatunde Fashola of Lagos State, Assistant Inspector General of Police, AIG Zone 2, Joseph Mbu are among other dignitaries to grace a pre-election seminar/ workshop being organised in Lagos by the Police Assistance Committee, PAC. The PAC seminar being organised in conjunction with Senate Committee on Police Affairs will hold at the Airport Hotel, Ikeja, on March 12, 2015. It will also have in attendance senior officers from the Nigeria Armed Forces, the Nigeria Police, Para-military agencies, federal and state government functionaries, and captain of industries from the corporate world.

Attendees at the seminar which is packaged to sensitise the public and members of the PAC on how to assist the security agencies with information dissemination during the election will include all Associations of Tradesmen and Artisans in Lagos State, and political gladiators from all political parties.

Adeseun delivers UNILAG alumni lecture

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AGOS—THE Chairman of Rodot Nigeria Limited, Remi Adeseun, member, Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria, PSN and Nigeria Academy of Pharmacy Fellow, will be the guest speaker at the 2015 Alumni Lecture Series of the Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Lagos today.

Second in the series, the alumni lecture is aimed at giving the graduating pharmacy students proper foundation and link to the profession as well as preparing them for the task ahead.

An alumnus of the institution and an accomplished pharmacist with experience spanning decades, Adeseun will be talking to the graduating students on the theme “New Graduates as Agents of Transforming Pharmacy Practice.”

The young Nigerians will draw inspiration from Adeseun’s long years of experience characterised by remarkable achievements as they brace up for life after school.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, MARCH 3, 2015 —11

Banks reopen in Ijebu-Ode after one month ROBBERY ATTACKS:

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By Daud Olatunji

BEOKUTA—REPRIEVE has come to the people of Ijebu-Ode and its environs in Ijebu-Ode Local Council of Ogun State as banks have reopened after a month of closure over robbery attacks.

The Police Public Relations Officer in the state, Muyiwa Adejobi, in a statement said the reopening was done following the Commissioner of Police, Valentine Ntomchukwu’s assurance of adequate security of lives and property to the banks and residents.

The PPRO said the Police boss made the assurance while briefing his management team on his successful visit to Ijebu Ode on Friday.

Adejobi said the Police boss had a meeting with Bankers’ Forum and Police Community Relations Committee leaders on the security challenges and prolonged closure of banks in the area.

The bankers reportedly agreed to reopen for business after the Police Commissioner released a brand new Armoured Personnel Carrier and two Nissan Hilux

vans for operational activities of the police in Ijebu Ode. According to Adejobi, the police commissioner, while appraising the security arrangement with his senior officers in his Eleweran office, yesterday, reiterated his commitment to smooth operations of the banks and other commercial activities in Ijebu Ode and its environs and Ogun State

in general and that he will not accept or tolerate any security lapses from any police formation or officers in Ijebu Ode and Ogun State.

He commended the bankers forum for its understanding and support given to the police on the issue.

Ntomchukwu also appreciated members of the Police

Community Relations Committee for their support and urged them to continue to assist the police in all areas particularly on intelligence gathering.

The command appealed to the general public to always contact the police in Ogun State on: 08081770416, 08081770419 and 08123822910, in case of any emergency or distress.

VISIT: From left: Mr Shola Omole, Director General, NTA,Senator Olugbenga Obadara, Akin Odunsi, Social Democratic Party, SDP, governorship candidate in Ogun State, and Senator Adegbenga Kaka, during their separate visits to Vanguard Media Ltd, Apapa, Lagos, yesterday.

Photo: Akeem Salau.

Ekiti shuts 5 filling stations over fuel hoarding

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By Gbenga Ariyibi

DO EKITI—AT least five filling stations have been sealed-off in Ekiti State by the order of the state Petroleum Consumers Protection Agency for allegedly hoarding fuel and selling the commodity above the official pump price of N87 per litre.

This was disclosed in Ado Ekiti yesterday by the chairman of the agency, Mr. Adeyemi Adebayo while speaking with newsmen.

Adebayo said each of the erring stations would pay a penalty of N500,000 to the purse of the state, saying this would serve as deterrent to others.

Names of the affected filling stations according to him are, Prosperous filling station, Isan-

Ekiti, Iroporal filling station, Iropora-Ekiti; Ferbason filling station, Ado-Ekiti, MNPC, AdoEkiti as well as Montel filling station also in Ado-Ekiti.

Most of the stations were according to him caught in the act on a tip-off, regretting that some of the stations were selling

a litre of fuel for as high as between N100 to N120 as against N87 approved by government.

OSUN POLLS:

Rights group wants alleged rigging video probed

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By Ikenna Asomba

AGOS—A RIGHTS group, Centre for Human Rights and Social Justice, CHRSJ, yesterday, called on the Inspector General of Police, IGP, Department for State Service, as well as the National Human Rights Commission, NHRC, to probe the alleged rigging video clip of the August 9, 2014 Osun State governorship election.

Coming few weeks after one Captain Sagir Okoli released a controversial audio clip alleging the use military to rig the June 21, Ekiti governorship poll, CHRSJ alleged that Osun video clip must be independently investigated just as the All Progressives Congress, APC is calling for the investigation of the Ekiti audio clip.

Addressing a press conference at the International Press Centre, IPC, Ogba, Lagos, the Executive Chairman, CHRSJ, Comrade Adeniyi Sulaiman, said the controversial video clip which shows how the APC allegedly rigged the Osun governorship polls must not be swept under the carpet.

Ogun INEC discovers 555 PVCs of dead people

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By Daud Olatunji

B E O K U TA — T H E Independent National Electoral Commission in Ogun State has discovered 555 Permanent Voter Cards, PVCs, belonging to dead people in the state.

The commission, however, said it had set aside the PVCs, adding that investigation was still ongoing to know the actual figure of registered voters who had died.

Making the disclosures, yesterday, at a press conference

in Abeokuta, the Resident Electoral Commission, Timothy Ibitoye, reacted to conflicting reports over number of registered voters and PVCs collected so far from Abuja, saying the commission had received 1,370,340 and had distributed 860,076 PVCs. The REC said the correct figure of registered voters is 1,795,794 and not 1,829,534.

He said if we based the

percentage of PVCs on registered voters, we have received 63 per cent. But, if we base it on the figure of the registered voters, it is 47 per cent.

“We are expecting 425,454 PVCs from Abuja. But, the PVCs yet to be collected is 510,264”, he added.

On how the INEC knew that 555 PVCs belonged to dead people, Ibitoye said that it was discovered shortly after it

displayed the names of those who are yet to collect their PVCs. ‘’We are trying to make sure we have correct PVCs distribution. We have gone to all the local governments from polling unit to polling unit to write out the names of those who have not collected their cards and during investigation, they gave us the figure of those who are dead in all the local government areas of the state,’’ he said.

Aregbesola congratulates Adeboye @ 73

By Gbenga Olarinoye

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SOGBO—THE Governor of Osun State, Mr Rauf Aregbesola has described Pastor Enoch Adeboye, the

General Overseer of The Redeemed Christian Church of God RCCG, as a detribalised Nigerian, who champions truth and peace of the country.

This was contained in a statement signed by the Director, Bureau of Communication and Strategy, Mr. Semiu Okanlawon, on the occasion of the 73rd birthday of the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God. The governor held that Pastor Adeboye has lived a truly inspiring life dedicated to service in the vineyard of the Lord worthy of emulation by all especially as the country approaches the next general elections and at all times.

12—Vanguard, TUESDAY, MARCH 3, 2015

EPZ: Itsekiri, Ijaw feud still unresolved, activist alleges …. Groundbreaking March 13, not 15

By Emma Amaize

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A R R I — A N environmental activist, Mr. Eyitiemi BrownDibofun, has said that it was not true that President Goodluck Jonathan had resolved the dispute between the Ijaw and Itsekiri in Delta State over the $16 billion Export Processing Zone, EPZ. Meanwhile, the groundbreaking of the $16 billion EPZ is slated for March 13, and not March 15, as earlier reported, a dependable source confided in Vanguard, yesterday.

Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan of Delta State, who has been directed by President Jonathan to sort out any other contentious matter before the date, is expected to convene a meeting soon.

A source told Vanguard, “No, the date is not March 15, it is March 13. That is what we agreed with Mr. President during his visit.”

Speaking on the face-off between the Ijaw and Itsekiri over the project, Brown-Dibofun, said: “There is no Itsekiri person that confirmed that we agreed at the meeting with President Jonathan that the Deep Sea Port on our land be named after Gbaramatu Kingdom. As far as I know, there

Delta PDP LG aspirants demand refund of nomination fees

By Festus Ahon

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S A B A — AGGRIEVED Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, councillorship and chairmanship aspirants forum in Delta State, yesterday, issued a one week ultimatum to the leadership of the party in the state to refund the money they spent on the collection of nomination/ expression of interest forms and the party’s screening exercise for the October 25, 2014 council elections in the state or risk losing their support to opposition parties in the forthcoming general elections.

The forum, in a statement at the end of its meeting, lamented the alleged imposition of candidates by the party’s leadership for the elections, saying “The party leadership did not conduct primary election for both councillorship and chairmanship aspirants."

is no such resolution, so nothing was resolved. I am sure Chief Ayiri Emami never told you that it was resolved.”

He said that anybody who says the matter had been settled was standing the truth on the head.

“The Itsekiri will never surrender an inch of their Godgiven land to the Ijaw aggressor.

Kpokpo is Itsekiri land. The Deep

Sea Port is to be located in Kpokpo, an Itsekiri land and not in Gbaramatu.

“Accordingly, the name should be Deep Sea Port, Kpokpo, Escravos and not Deep Sea Port, Gbaramatu. The Itsekiri will defend every inch of their land with the last breath. We will not succumb to the Ijaw ‘gunboat’ oppression and tyranny,” he said.

Vanguard gathered that there were flurry of meetings over the president’s visit by the two ethnic groups, yesterday.

But, while the Gbaramatu-Ijaw people were apparently happy over the settlement, it could be short-lived, as some Itsekiri have indicated that they would not accept Kpokpo being relinquished to the Ijaw for the deep sea port.

VISIT: From left: All Progressives Congress, APC, governorship candidate in Delta State, Olorogun O'tega Emerhor; His Royal Highness, Johnson Ekpechi, the Obuemue of Emu Kingdom and APC governorship running mate , Chief V.O.T Abanum, at the monarch's palace, in Ndokwa West Local Government Area of Delta State.

DESECRATION OF TRADITIONAL STOOL: Bayelsa community, Daewoo at loggerheads

By Samuel Oyadongha

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E N A G O A — INDIGENES of Obunagha, in Yenagoa Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, host to the multi-billion naira Shell Petroleum Development Companyowned Liquefied Natural Gas, LNG, may be heading for a collision with the oil servicing firm, Daewoo, over alleged desecration of the community's traditional stool.

The community, it was learned, is angry over the arrest and detention for 16 hours, of their paramount ruler, His Highness, Chief Godgive Apoh, by men of the Department of State Services, DSS. According to angry indigenes of the community, the paramount ruler, known as the Amananaowei of Obunagha and his three sons, were invited by the DSS on February 16, and detained over a petition by the oil servicing firm over alleged threat and harassment.

The aggrieved indigenes of the community claimed that the arrest and detention of the paramount ruler was part of a deliberate plot to unseat him over his recent comments on the failures of SPDC to provide water despite alleged spending of over N1.3 billion on a failed water project for the community.

Though they admitted that SPDC started operation in the community in 1965 and has succeeded in providing constant electricity to the community, the company, they said had failed on the issue of needed potable water, good health centre, internal road network and employment of indigenes.

Okrika women summon Rivers Commissioner

By Jimitota Onoyume

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ORT HARCOURT— SOME women of Okrika have summoned the Rivers State Commissioner for Information and Communications, Mrs Ibim Semenitari, to appear before the highest level of authority among women in Okrika, Egbele Ereme, to explain what she meant by a statement she allegedly made during the last disrupted rally of All Progressives Congress, APC, in the area, Madam Bertha Adubo and

others in a statement, yesterday, in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, said that the commissioner allegedly made disparaging comments on the First Lady, Dame Patience Jonathan, during the rally, adding that the comment triggered the shootings that aborted the rally.

The women who danced round Okrika said the commissioner, Mrs Semenitari, had been summoned to the market square of the community since last Friday, adding that she had seven days to respond.

Ex-militants map out doorto-door campaign for Okowa

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O fewer 2,000 former militants and their leaders from Warri North, Warri South-West, Burutu, Bomadi, Patani Local Government Areas and Delta Central, have mapped out plans to embark on door-to-door campaign for Delta State Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, governorship candidate, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa.

Speaking at the end of their meeting in Warri, the coordinator, Mr. Preye Ekpebide, said Okowa’s track record as a senator, former Secretary to Delta State Government, former Commissioner for Health, Agriculture and Water Resources, have made him stand out in terms of experience and mass empowerment, above others gunning for the governorship position.

He added that the Phase Three ex-militant leaders of each local government area of the state have been mandated to lead their members for the Okowa door-to-door campaign to all parts of the state.

Ekpebide said the group has to remind Deltans that Okowa is a man to be trusted.

Tourism Minister to inaugurate APCON’s 6th Governing Council

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INISTER of To u r i s m , National Orientation and the Supervising Minister of Information, High Chief Edem Duke, will on March 5, inaugurate the sixth Governing Council of Advertising Practitioners Council of Nigeria, APCON. According to a statement by APCON’s Registrar/Chief Executive, Alhaji Garba Kankarofi, the event is scheduled to hold at NAN Media Centre, National Theatre Annexe, Iganmu, Lagos.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, MARCH 3, 2015—13

Group offers to sponsor Buhari, Jonathan debate in UK

By Samuel Oyadongha

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ENAGOA—A GROUP, Wind of Hope, has offered the presidential candidate of All Progressives Congress, APC, Gen. Muhammadu Buhari, a fresh platform to debate with President Goodluck Jonathan of Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, on the political situation in the country, at Chatham House, London, United Kingdom.

In an open letter of invitation to Buhari by its National Coordinator, Onoriode Akpe, the group noted that the general’s performance in the speech he delivered in London shows that he is more comfortable in London, hence, the need to take the debate to London where the two gladiators can square it out in a debate.

“We wish to congratulate you on your recent visit to the United Kingdom where you delivered a speech at Chatham House, London on February 26, 2015. Your speech at the event is clearly a source of motivation for your supporters who in recent times seem to have lost steam in their aggressive marketing of your candidacy for the office of President,” the group said.

The Wind of Hope said that

with his speech, Buhari may have acknowledged the achievements of the Jonathan administration, but that notwithstanding, there was need for the two of them to debate in front of the generality of Nigerians in order for the people to know the stuff both candidates are made of.

“In our quest to deepen democracy which thrives on

robust and constructive deliberations that aid the electorate in making informed decisions, Wind of Hope hereby challenges or offers you a platform to debate with the incumbent, President Jonathan, before the forthcoming elections, at Chatham House, where you were so obviously at ease before your supporters and

TOUR: Bayelsa State Governor, Hon. Seriake Dickson (middle), flanked by the Obenibe of Atissa Kingdom, Yenagoa, HRM, King Godwin Igodo (left), and the Speaker, BYHA, Rt. Hon. Konbowei Benson, during the governor’s visit to the palace of the monarch at Ogbogoro community, Yenagoa, as part of his tour of PVC collection centres in the state capital.

Dakuku denies involvement in attack on Wike’s rally it, and so as a

By Jimitota Onoyume

P

ORT HARCOURT—ALL Progressives Congress, APC, in Rivers State, has denied allegations by the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, that the governorship candidate of the APC, Dr. Peterside Dakuku and other chieftains of the party were behind the attack on the PDP governorship campaign rally in Bakana, Degema Local Government Area of the state, on Saturday.

D i r e c t o r , Communications of the Greater Together Campaign Organisation of the APC governorship candidate, Mrs Ibim Semenitari, in a statement, accused the PDP of stage managing the attack on its rally in Bakana, saying that it was a ploy to divert Police investigation of the disrupted APC rally in Okrika recently.

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She said: “PDP must have envisaged that ongoing police investigation into armed attacks, assassination of APC supporters and members and other politically-motivated violence in Rivers State would turn in a damaging indictment on

diversionary tactic to misdirect the police, had stage-managed the said Bakana attack.”

She described allegation by the PDP that the Dakuku and others were behind the attack in Bakana as “tissues of lies and a libellous provocation.”

Bini royal family flays chiefs' disagreement on presidential candidate Iyamu, for their alleged

By Simon Ebegbulem

B

the international media.”

The group offered to “fully sponsor” such a forum, adding that “all we ask is that you state your preferred date and time. Again, we wish to reiterate the import of such a debate in this election which you appropriately described as ‘Nigeria’s landmark election’ in your speech at Chatham House.”

ENIN—THE Bini royal family, yesterday, described as abominable, the seeming cold war among the chiefs of the Royal Court after the comments made by the Esogban of Benin Kingdom and chairman of the Benin Forum, Chief David Edebiri, that the Binis will not vote for President Goodluck Jonathan.

The family also carpeted members of President Jonathan’s campaign organisation in the state, led by Pastor Osagie Ize-

attempt to desecrate the Holy Aruosa Cathedral, where the Oba worships, accusing them of taking their campaigns to the church.

“It is even more so when the leader or the coordinator is a pastor,” they said.

The Royal family described as disrespectful, the alleged open castigation of the Esogban by the Eson of Benin Kingdom, Chief Amos Osunbor, who said that the Binis will vote for President Jonathan, adding that the Eson’s action was against the rules of the palace.

Communities demand equity shares at Delta gas plant

By Egufe Yafugborhi

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ARRI—PROTES T E R S , yesterday, besieged the Utorogun Gas Plant, Otughievwen, in Ughelli South Local Government Area, Delta State, in a warning protest to draw attention of the Nigerian Petroleum Development Company, NPDC, operator of the plant, towards settling lingering issues in dispute.

Chairman of the group, Efe Okovwurie, who led the protest, said the demonstration will escalate into a shutdown of the gas plant if management of the company refuses to come to terms with the demands of the host communities.

14— Vanguard, TUESDAY, MARCH 3, 2015

ENDLESS QUEUES AS FUEL SCARCITY WORSENS

Another queue at Total Filling Station due to fuel scarcity in Lagos. Photo: Akeem Salau.

Vehicles queuing for petrol as scarcity of the commodity persists in Abuja, yesterday.

Photo: NAN.

A fuel station along Abuja Keffi Road without the commodity to sell. Photo: Gbemiga Olamikan.

Another fuel station along Abuja Keffi Road not selling fuel. Photo: Gbemiga Olamikan.

An empty filling station in Ibadan as the fuel scarcity hits motorists harder in the city. Photo: Dare Fasube.

Gov Babatunde Fashola swears in new Permanent Secretaries

Governor Babatunde Fashola of Lagos State (right)and Mrs. Umar Abimbola Sukurat, one of newly appointed Permanent Secretaries on the occasion.

SWEARING IN: Gov. Babatunde Fashola of Lagos state (middle), his deputy, Mrs Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire (3rd right), and the newly appointed Permanent Secretaries, during the swearing of the 12 new Permanent Secretaries by the governor, at Lagos House, Alausa, Ikeja, Lagos, yesterday. Photos: Bunmi Azeez.

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Gov. Babatunde Fashola (right) and Mrs. Folashade Ogunnaike, another newly appointed Permanent Secretary at the event.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, MARCH 3, 2015 — 15

Enugu PDP excited, as court validates Ugwuanyi’s candidature zI'll appeal the judgment — AYOGU EZE

By Austin Ogwuda & Francis Igata

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COMMISSIONING: From left: Governor Willie Obiano of Anambra State; Mr. Ernest Adinweruka, Senior Special Adviser to the governor; Mr. Timothy Oguntayo, Group Managing Director/CEO, Skye Bank Plc; Mrs. Ibiye Ekong; Executive Director, South South/South East, Skye Bank and Igwe Alfred Nnaemeka Achebe, the Obi of Onitsha at the commissioning of an ultra-modern Donor Agency complex donated to Anambra State government by Skye Bank in Awka.

NUGU—ENUGU State chapter of Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, has expressed satisfaction with the judgement of the Federal High Court, Abuja, on the suit brought against the party by Senator Ayogu Eze on the choice of Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi as the governorship candidate of the party in the April 11 governorship election.

This is just as the plaintiff, Senator Ayogu Eze, insists that he will appeal the judgement.

In a statement signed and made available to newsmen in Enugu yesterday,the Publicity Secretary of the party,Mr. Okey Eze said: “PDP is a

2,000 youths protest Elechi’s impeachment plot ...Protest is against Mrs Jonathan's visit, alleges PDP

By Peter Okutu

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BAKALIKI—OVER 2, 000 youths in Ebonyi State yesterday staged a peaceful protest in Abakaliki against the impeachment plot against Governor Martin Elechi by members of the State house of Assembly.

The House of Assembly had last Friday served an impeachment notice on the governor over alleged gross misconduct and breaches of the constitution.

The protesters, who converged on the state township stadium as early as 8 a.m, disrupted human and vehicular traffic as security personnel were positioned at strategic places to prevent any break down of law and order.

However, the Divine Mandate

Campaign Organization of the state Peoples Democratic Party, PDP governorship candidate, Engr. Dave Umahi, alleged that the youths were mobilized by the state government to protest against the visit of the wife of the President, Dame Patience Jonathan, who is due in the state within the week.

Chairman, Media, Research and Strategic Team of the Organization, Senator Emmanuel Onwe, said thee people of the state were not in any way intimidated by the action of the governor.

“Today, we witnessed yet another example of the degeneration of opposition politics in Ebonyi into the sewage. The youth of Ebonyi were brought into the capital city

Court resumes hearing in monarch vs N'Delta power firm's suit

By Nwabueze Okonkwo

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NITSHA—THE Federal High Court sitting in Awka, Anambra State, is expected to resume hearing today, in a suit filed by the traditional ruler and regent of Mbosi in Ihiala Local Government Area of the state, Prince Okey-Joe Onuakalusi, against the Niger Delta Power Holding Company Limited.

Presiding judge, Justice M.L. Abubakar, fixed the March 3 hearing date shortly after he granted an interim injunction restraining the company from further entering into the palace of the pllaintiff’s late father and Oluoha IV of Mbosi, His Royal

Highness, Igwe G.M.Onuakalusi and its surroundings, pending the hearing and determination of the substantive suit.

Prince Onuakalusi had dragged the company and its top management staff, Mr Emmanuel Ogbuji and Engineer James Arugo, to court seeking to stop them from further invading his domain with the army in an attempt to construct a National Independent Power Project, NIPP High Tension Line that passed from Ukpor, Nnewi South Local Government Area, through Mbosi to Nnewi in Nnewi North Local Government Area.

Abakaliki, given placards, empty coffins and paltry sums of money to protest against the PDP in Ebonyi State. The Labour Party in Ebonyi is tainted with corruption, duplicity, dishonour and violence. No amount of rented crowd can launder or cleanse the image of this malnourished orphan child. The State of the PDP in Ebonyi is robust,”he said.

The governor’s supporters, mainly members of the opposition Labour Party, were received at cabinet office, Government House by the Secretary to the State government, Chief Boniface Chima; Commissioner for Finance, Barrister Timothy Odaah and others.

Addressing the protesters, Odaah urged the state commissioner of police to quench the fire burning in the state, alleging that some detractors were manipulating the speaker, Chukwuma Nwazunku, to take the governor’s seat by force, less than 100 days to the end of his tenure.

The commissioner reassured the unwavering commitment of the people of the state to the reelection of President Goodluck Jonathan, asking the President to be wary of those pretending to be working for him, describing them as agents of destruction.

He advised the people of Ebonyi to support the second bond proposal of the state government, saying if other states in the federation could obtain bonds from the capital market within three weeks, there was nothing wrong for a poor state as Ebonyi to borrow.

The spokesman of the youths,

Barrister Leonard Igboke, warned against the impeachment which might spark violence if allowed to happen, especially at this critical period when the governor had less than three months to vacate office.

Meanwhile, one of the protesters who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the protest was mainly for sympathizers and supporters of the Labour Party.

party founded on the principles of justice, equity, inclusiveness, and respect for rule of law and democratic tenets.

“We have never had any doubts that we religiously complied with extant laws, party guidelines, and all due process in the nomination of Ugwuanyi as our flag bearer.

“It is, therefore, gladdening that the Court has vindicated the party and affirmed the candidature of Ugwuanyi.

“The judiciary, by this verdict has, once more, shown itself as the last hope of the common man and the bulwark of the nation’s democracy.

“We hope that this has finally laid to rest any misgivings and contentions over the December 8, 2014 PDP governorship primary election in Enugu State as we invite our brother, Senator Ayogu Eze, and all former governorship aspirants to join the mass movement for Ugwuanyi’s governorship come May 29, 2015 in the spirit of brotherhood and in the interest of the party and the state.

“The good governance and development of Enugu state are paramount. Democratic governance is a huge responsibility; and there will certainly be prominent roles for all to towards the betterment of our dear state.”

Police recover large cache of illegal arms nationwide

T

HE police have recovered a large cache of arms from unauthorised individuals following the recent order of the Inspector-General of Police, Mr Suleiman Abba.

The Force spokesman, Mr Emmanuel Ojukwu, who disclosed this in an interview yesterday, said that the arms were recovered from some states across the country.

Ojukwu, who did not name the states, said: “I can tell you authoritatively that in some states, the police have recovered a large cache of arms; some people have returned the arms they are holding to the police. I know that Nigerians know it is an offence to be unlawfully in possession of arms, it is a felony, a very serious offence.

“We do not want to demonise any state. Nigerians are law abiding, they are respecting the law and police commands all over the federation are effecting the order given by the I-G.” On whether persons from whom the arms were recovered would be prosecuted, Ojukwu

explained that the force would investigate the circumstances under which they got them to know what step to take.

“If somebody voluntarily returns his arm, the police have a process.

We appeal to people to return the arms because the arms should not be in the hands of non-state actors.

We will investigate the circumstances under which they got the arms; if we find out that it is a circumstance under which we could charge them, we will do so.

It is not in everything that you just use the sledge hammer and begin to effect arrest.

“We are asking Nigerians to be law abiding, to value life and where they found out that they have made mistake, they should retrace their step,” he said.

On the alleged ban on political rallies in Okrika by the community, Ojukwu stressed that the country’s constitution gives all political actors the right to canvass for votes everywhere.

“I do not believe that there was such an order given by the community. They do not have such right under the law.''

16 — Vanguard, TUESDAY, MARCH 3, 2015

S'East, S'South commercial drivers acquire 300 buses for Jonathan campaign

By Chimaobi Nwaiwu

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NEWI—IN their bid to ensure President Goodluck and his deputy, Namadi Sambo, win the forth coming presidential election, members of South East, South South Commercial Drivers Welfare Association, SSDWA, have secured over 300 buses for campaign rally in Imo, Enugu and Anambra states in second week of March 2015.

They also advised their members to collect their Permanent Voters Cards, PVCs. The states that make up the membership of the association are Anambra, Abia, Imo, Enugu, Ebonyi, Delta, Akwa Ibom, Edo, Cross Rivers and Bayelsa states, the home state of President Jonathan.

Addressing newsmen yesterday on what he called “Last Minute Campaign Rally by South East, and South South Commercial Drivers Welfare Association”, Interim President General of the association, Chief Nnamdi Okafor, disclosed that they would kick off their campaign rally for President Jonathan in Anambra State.

According to him, the campaign train will move to Imo and Enugu states where members from other states of the two zones would join.

“We have written a letter to the Governor of Anambra state Governor Obiano soliciting for his consent and assistance on security and to shore up our stretched resources to cover other numerous logistics in organizing the rally.

“We shall patrol the states with over 300 buses from Anambra to Owerri, to Enugu and to Awka and back to the venue at All Saints Cathedral Onitsha where we will meet with other members of the association who will come from the states we did not visit that day,” he said.

Chief Okafor said the group had given its drivers orientation and enlightenment on the need to collect their PVC to ensure they participate in the general election to vote President Jonathan and Sambo ticket.

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Workers shut down Njaba LG over non-payment of salaries

By Chidi Nkwopara & Chinonso Alozie

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W E R R I — GOVERNMENT activities were grounded yesterday as staff of Njaba local government shut the gates of the council headquarters to press home demand for payment of their January and February salaries.

The workers, who wore gloomy faces when Vanguard visited the scene, were seen outside the gate in groups, discussing and bemoaning their fate.

Although none of the workers

wanted to be quoted on the issue, they, however, accused the state government of currently remote controlling payment of staff salaries from one source.

“Things are getting out of hand in the state. What is truly happening to workers salaries and allowances?

“We do not understand why government should be remote controlling our salaries from one source,” the aggrieved workers lamented.

The workers were particularly irked that they could no longer take care of their family

responsibilities due to nonpayment of their statutory salaries.

“We know that the state government has been collecting huge funds from the federation account, for the 27 local government areas of the state.

This is shocking,” they said.

Another female staff wondered how Governor Rochas Okorocha would continue claiming that his administration was peopleoriented when he failed to pay salaries.

“Non-payment of workers salaries is a minus for he

administration. If workers did not down tools, nobody would have known what we have been suffering over time,” she lamented.

A health worker in the council grieved that the immunization programme scheduled for tomorrow might be seriously affected by the current protest.

Efforts made to reach any of the labour leaders for comments failed as they were said to be meeting somewhere to discuss the situation on ground.

Ndokwa youths want lawmaker voted out

A

RECEPTION FOR JONATHAN: President Goodluck Jonathan (right) been received at the youth rally held in his honour by Nigeria youths at Eko Hotel, Lagos on Sunday.

CHOLERA OUTBREAK IN ENUGU ‘How we saved several children' commissioner donated drugs from

By Austin Ogwuda

E

NUGU—ENUGU State Commissioner for Health, Dr. George Eze, said yesterday that several children could have lost their lives but for the timely intervention of his ministry that nipped the reported cholera in some parts of the state in the bud.

He, however, regretted that some lives were lost.

Speaking in Enugu, Eze said: “Our prompt intervention paid off as we were able to nip it in the bud, although we lost some lives but the percentage was minimal.

We can’t say we did not lose life.

They were between the three years bracket. But as I speak to you”, it has been properly arrested.”

The Commissioner further said that “from our laboratory testing, it was discovered that it was gastroenteritis, not cholera per se as initially speculated.”

Recall that the outbreak occurred last month in Enugu State, leaving several people hospitalized, especially in Nsukka, Udenu and Igboeze South local government areas of the state.

Immediately the incident was reported, the Health Commissioner led a team of health workers from his ministry as well as representatives of the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund, UNICEF, and World Health Organization, WHO, to assess the extent of the outbreak.

They visited hospitals where the

the state government worth over N500,000 to be administered free of charge.

At one of the hospitals visited, he said: “As I donate these drugs on behalf of the governor, Mr Sullivan Chime, I urge you to do more. I appreciate the way you have managed the disease, it shows that the state will be at peace whenever something similar occurs in these three councils.”

group, Ndokwa Youth Coalition, NYC, has urged indigenes and youths at home and in diaspora to come out en mass and vote out the People Democratic Party, PDP, candidate represeting Ndokwa East constituency in the state House of Assembly, Friday Osanebi, due to his insensitivity to the plight of the people in the area.

The group, in a press statement by its spokesperson, Comrade Emeka Ifeanyi, urged the people of Ndokwa nation to kick against god fathers imposing candidates on them.

It said Osanebi had not been sincere to his constituents, adding that all he does was to keep empowering his supporters, party faithful, their extended families and his godfathers with constituency fund, rather than developing the constituency with such fund.

The group accused the lawmaker of being biased over the land tussle which caused the burning of over 62 houses and displacement of people at Ibrede, a fishing communities in Ndokwa East Local Government Area.

The group advised the people to vote for Enus Enumah, of the Labour Party, LP, adding that the candidate would bring the expected changes that the people desired.

Ashafa donates science labs to school

By Olasunkanmi Akoni

S

ENATOR Gbenga Ashafa, representing Lagos East Senatorial District, has donated science laboratories to Isheri Grammar School in IkosiIsheri Local Council Development Area, LCDA, of Lagos State to upgrade education of the youths.

Ashafa, who represents Lagos East senatorial district, said while commissioning the constituency project scheme, that the building was one of the 98 constituency projects he sponsored in the

senate to boost education and technology in his district.

Ashafa, who was received by the school teacher,s led by the principal, Mr Alasan Yakubu, said: “Providing access to quality education remains our top priority. Personally, I am committed to giving our children the best to boost their morale and interest in education. “This gesture is one of the education empowerment programmes we have executed in our constituency.

“In some schools, we have

initiated lofty programmes, including the famous “Back-to-School” initiative, which provides writing materials, sets of mathematical instruments, textbooks, school bags and uniform to our children, building of three classroom blocks in our public schools and so on”.

Ashafa said he would continue to make education attractive to the young, noting that his educational intervention, including school fees for the indigents, had increased basic school enrolment in the district.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, MARCH 3, 2015 — 17

W

HEN Muhammadu Buhari overthrew a democratically-elected government in a coup d'etat in 1983, Sani Abacha declared in his infamous radio broadcast: “(Our) health services are in shambles as our hospitals are reduced to mere consulting clinics without drugs, water and equipment.”

However, Buhari did not address the shambolic Nigerian health system in his two years in power. In a Vanguard article of February 7, 2015, Ambassador Ignatius Olisemeka said of Buhari: “He entrusted to me the care and welfare of his family he sent his wife and two children to me in Washington D.C. for medical treatment. His family were with me in Washington D.C. when the General was overthrown in a coup d’état.”

Thus, while Buhari was grandstanding as Mr. Fix-It, he sought medical care surreptitiously for his family in the United States, instead of fixing the Nigerian health system. This typifies the hypocrisy and insincerity of Buhari as an agent of change. It is all smoke and mirrors. It is the same duplicity whereby he claimed to be the apostle of anticorruption even while being complicit in the smuggling in of 53 suitcases at Murtala Mohammed Airport, Lagos in the middle of a currency change.

Buharinomics: Buhari’s grandstanding must not be allowed to go unchallenged today, now that he is seeking election under the same kind of democratic system he truncated and trashed in the past. We must not allow Buhari to sweep his ignominious past under the carpet of a bogus mantra of “change.” Indeed, there is something anomalous about presenting a 72 year-old former military dictator as a change candidate. What kind of change can be represented by an old has-been?

Financial obligations

In his first coming, the “changes” Buhari brought were to Nigeria’s detriment. Under him, the Nigerian economy went from bad to worse. Our national debt rose from $14 billion to $18 billion in less than two years; with the result that Nigeria was no longer able to meet its financial obligations to global bankers. We had to queue for essential commodities, such as bread and milk, which were hard to find. Raw materials and spare parts needed to keep factories running were scarce.

Rather than create jobs, tens of thousands of workers lost their jobs. Inflation rose to the astronomical level of 40%; while it is now 7.9% under Jonathan.

When Buhari seized power in 1983, Nigeria’s GDP was $444.45.

When he was overthrown in 1985, Nigeria’s GDP had dropped dramatically to $344.14. That is not the kind of change we want. When Goodluck Jonathan became C M Y K

Why Nigerians must reject the second coming of Buhari president in 2010, Nigeria’s GDP was $369. By 2014, it had grown dramatically to $510.

Buhari is going around complaining about the recent devaluation of the naira.

However, when he took over in 1983, one dollar exchanged for 0.724 naira. But by the time he was overthrown in 1985, one dollar exchanged for 0.894 naira.

That is 23% devaluation in barely two years. However, when Jonathan took over in 2010, one dollar exchanged for $167 naira. Five years later, it is now $202.55.

That is a devaluation of 21% in five years.

It is not surprising, therefore that, when Buhari was overthrown in 1985, there was wild jubilation throughout the length and breadth of the country.

Unleashing the dogs and the baboons

One of the first things Buhari did when he seized power in 1984 was to gag the press.

Decree 4 was promulgated making even the publishing of the truth a criminal offence.

Under it, Nduka Irabor and Tunde Thompson were jailed maliciously in a manner designed primarily to intimidate the press.

Under Buhari, the SSS came looking for me because I published an article in National Concord entitled: “Countertrading Nigeria’s Future;” criticizing the government’s return to the stone age economic policy of trade by barter which resulted in even greater fraud than import licensing. Buhari is now angling to return to power

While Buhari was grandstanding as Mr. Fix-It, he sought medical care surreptitiously for his family in the United States, instead of fixing the Nigerian health system

under a democratic setting. But has this leopard changed its skin? In spite of his carefully crafted makeover by his American handlers, has Buhari changed from his antidemocratic ways?

All the evidence suggests he has not. Buhari is not even president and he is already fighting the press. Recently, he threatened to back out of the Abuja Peace Accord concluded with Goodluck Jonathan and the PDP because he was upset about the insults and attacks he was receiving. He warned that no one should regard his “patriotic commitment to maintaining national peace” for weakness.

Buhari’s handlers declared: “We cannot continue to guarantee the tolerance limit of our teeming supporters nationwide who are daily being inundated with death wish commentaries on the person of General Muhammadu Buhari.”

What exactly does this mean?

Is Buhari now going to unleash his infamous dogs and baboons on Nigerians? This is why it would be foolhardy to mortgage the freedoms we have come to enjoy under the democratic dispensation by handing power back to a man who is intolerant of criticism.

Let us juxtapose Buhari’s short fuse to the disposition of Goodluck Jonathan. Jonathan must be the most wrongly vilified president in the history of Nigeria. He has been called all kinds of names by his traducers. He has been abused, reviled and condemned by APC stalwarts. His motorcade has been stoned. His campaign posters have been torn down.

His campaign ground has been bombed. His wife has been maligned. How has he responded to all this?

Jonathan responded by signing the Freedom of Information bill. In effect, instead of gagging the press, in the tradition of malevolent dictators like Buhari, he has freed the press even more; allowing it to criticize his government without hindrance.

In every way possible for the past five years, Jonathan has assured and reassured Nigerians that freedom of

expression is our inalienable right.

The myth of Buhari's northern popularity

One of the lies of the Buhari campaign is the pretense that he has cornered the Northern vote. Nothing could be further from the truth. As a matter of fact, in this election, Buhari is not the choice of the North. The Northern political elite don’t want Buhari to be president. The North did not vote for him in the APC presidential primaries.

The Northern vote went instead to Rabiu Kwankwaso and Atiku Abubakar. Buhari was elected primarily with Southern ACN votes.

Let me ask some pertinent questions. How many Northern elite have we seen recently campaigning for Buhari? We have seen Tinubu following Buhari around. We have heard Obasanjo and Soyinka pitching their tents with him. But the Northern elite have largely kept mum. Governors Fashola, Oshiomhole and Amaechi of the South have been busy singing choruses of praise about Buhari, but Northern governors are mute. Atiku and Kwankwaso have largely kept their distance from him.

Why are they not shouting on the rooftops for Buhari? The truth is that the Northern elite have never liked Buhari.

Therefore, it is not in their interest for him to become president.

Buhari’s grandstanding on anticorruption resonates with the poor, but not with the Northern elite. Should Buhari become president, most of the current Northern presidential hopefuls can no longer be president in their lifetime. Eight years of Buhari presidency would swing the presidency back to the South for another eight years. But these Northern bigwigs don’t have 16 years to wait in the wilderness. Some of them would even left politics by then.

It is better for them to wait for Jonathan to finish his secondterm in 2019, at which time they would be able to contest for the presidency without having to deal with an incumbent president. What they need now is the assurance that it would

then be the turn of the North.

In that eventuality, South-South support for a Northern presidential candidate would be imperative. 2015 is not the time to jeopardize this.

The strategic partnership of the North and the South-South has been the enduring decimal of Nigerian elections. The SouthSouth has supported the North in every election, except when its own son, Goodluck Jonathan, was on the ballot. The North must be careful not to betray that partnership, if for no other reason than that it will need it again in the near future. It must be careful not to betray that partnership because Jonathan has done far more for the North in his five years in power than he has for any other part of the country, including the SouthSouth. In short, there is no excuse for Northern denial of support for Jonathan in 2015.

The federal government’s mid-term assessment of its development investment shows that the investment in the NorthWest and the North-Central zones alone amounted to 792 billion naira; nearly double those of the South-West, South-South and South-East put together, which amounted to 403 billion naira. If the North fails to support Jonathan in the coming presidential election, in spite of Jonathan’s obvious discrimination in favour of the North, it can bid farewell to South-South support in the future.

South South support

With all the noise about Buhari’s popularity with the talakawa in the North, we have not heard anything that he has ever done, or would do, for them.

When he was head of state between 1984 and 1985, he did absolutely nothing for them. In the unlikely event that Jonathan becomes president, it would not take long before there would be rioting among the Northern poor out of dashed and betrayed hope.

The man who has transformed the life of the poor in the North has been Goodluck Jonathan.

Jonathan built 125 Almajiri Schools in 13 states in the North; something Northern rulers like Buhari failed to do. At the commissioning of the first Almajiri Model School in Gagi, Sokoto State, the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Abubakar Sa’ad III, observed that Jonathan’s action was unprecedented in the history of Northern Nigeria.

Jonathan also established ten new federal universities; seven of them in the North. Jonathan has made far more appointments of Northerners than he has of Southerners. His transformation of agriculture from subsistence to commercial farming has been of primary benefit to the agrarian North.

Therefore, it will come as no surprise if Jonathan wins more votes in the North in 2015 than he did in 2011.

18 — Vanguard, TUESDAY, MARCH 3, 2015 THE Nigerian military and the security agencies would wish to forget 2014 because of the strange, nightmarish experiences they went through. It was a year things became so bad that people wondered aloud if this was the mighty military that fought the civil war, effortlessly put down other insurrections and became the reliable guard of troubled countries in the West African sub-region and beyond. In the past 50 years, our troops have been in high demand internationally and they always returned with accolades.

It was last year that we started hearing of our soldiers running away from fights against terrorists, abandoning their arms for the enemy to capture and deploy against our people, mutinies, court martials and ignominious dismissals. Nigerians could not understand why the abducted Chibok girls were not rescued. We were losing people and places to a sect that become so emboldened that it bombed at will and held communities hostage.

The Federal Government appears to have discovered the formula for turning the situation around. After initial problems

Kudos TTo o Our TTroops roops and controversies surrounding procurement of arms, the troops have since started taking delivery of the required calibre of equipment. The change in fortunes became noticeable as 2015 unfolded. Today, the media are brimming with exciting stories of victory after victory, as the military and contingents of the Lake Chad Basin partners (Niger, Chad and Cameroun) descend on the terrorists.

They are being pulverized, and territories they seized liberated. The nation is very upbeat, assured of secured atmosphere to conduct the general elections in all polling booths in the country on 28 March and 11

April.

We are proud of the achievements of our troops and security agencies that are involved in the combats. Last week President Goodluck Jonathan visited them at some locations to commend them, and the National Assembly also commended their victories. The trust and confidence of Nigerians in the capacity of their armed forces to protect them and their country is being gradually restored. The momentum should be sustained with internal security improved to handle the series of bombings that seem to be the insurgents’ response to their losses at the battle fronts.

Governments and Nigerians learn useful lessons from our security challenges of the past five years. It is our country and we are the ones to build it. We must ensure that no cell of terror or insurrection is allowed to fester before we tackle it.

As we anticipate total victory and are set to rebuild our country, we wish the wounded speedy recovery, repose for souls of troops lost in battle and ask the relevant authorities to ensure that affected families receive their entitlements.

OPINION

By Ben Etaghene

L

AST week, all the Local Government Areas chairmen and chairwomen celebrated their first 100days in office, the first of the kind for Delta State under Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan’s eight years on the saddle. The case is not unique to him because in 2012, it was disclosed by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) that in 27 states in the country, the governors were not holding election for the L.G.As. They only appointed caretaker committees with illegal heads. It is illegal because such an aberration has no place in the 1999 Constitution, only adjunct of their fertile brains.

But why were they allowed to get away with it because they were ordered then to organize elections. No one of them bothered. They did it when it was convenient for them. Take a look at the issue of the autonomy for the LGAs recommended by the National Conference and approved by the National Assembly.

The people, the civil societies kept mum.

In Burkina Fasso, people’s power was enough to drive Blaize Compaore into exile begging to be allowed back to pick up his pieces. Watch it in Congo Democratic Republic the people have given notice to President Joseph Kabilla. In Nigeria, a country reputed to be the most populous and with the languor economy the people are too conservative buoyed by docility to demand their due.

In Delta State with literacy rate on the level of Tunisia, people do not dare to demand for what the law has given them as right. Hence

Odebala as a macrocosm our celebration of the chairmen and chairwomen’s 100 years in office for the first time in eight years. My principal concern in this article is Sapele Urban Council where I live, though I hear that there is a solid preparedness on the way for many of them to perform. Why not. They have waited for so long to bear the epitaph of an elected L.G.A leader.

In Sapele, Hon. Ejaife Omizu Odebala who has tasted the hot waters of politics, first as a two-term elected member of the Delta House of Assembly, (DTHA), a commissioner for almost four years who resigned to campaign for the governorship of the state and since then has been a hotelier in charge of five-star hotels in Asaba and Sapele, came into the office with bags loaded with experience. To top it all, he is a lawyer by training.

From the look of it, he is anxious to perform and as a kid from the yonder street much is expected from him overwhelmingly. When he swore in his councilors on October 28 last year he gave the people the feeling of what to expect.

He spoke of hard work to give Sapele a new direction. After the swearing-in instead of allowing the councilors the leeway to go home and celebrate, he told them “work starts” So while those who came to watch the occasion departed, he was locked in

Many Sapele residents who are appreciative stress the need for leadership.

behind with them to go over their next agenda.

He spoke of the need to clean up the town which “every resident knows is dirty.” This could be said to be his pet project. In January, some journalists came to him to know how he was going to celebrate his first 100days in office. In a frank reply he said, “I do not have any 100days to celebrate. My contract with my people is to clear the town of dirt first.

This is my major concern.” In reality, it is a concern which he is laying to rest. The little town now shines. Before 6:00 am cleaners are everywhere with their shinning dresses.

The streetlights are always on powered by diesel outside the national grid. There is also an arrangement with an agency with the acronym SEEFOR that is World Bank assisted for the clearing of refuse from the homes. Residents pile their refuse bags by the roadside on specific days of the week and the agency workers with their van come around to pick them up.

Many Sapele residents who are appreciative stress the need for leadership.

“The people are ready to follow the right leaders,” they say. According to a local newspaper agent, “Hon. Ejaife is giving this town a new direction. Look at this gutter in front of me. If this is all he can do for me, am satisfied. No more stench to disturb my customers and those who come in here to read the papers.”

One clear rule of cleanliness the resident of the town have imbibed is their willingness to clear their drainages. There is no more indiscriminate dumping of refuse. The new

administration at the council has cleared all such dumps with signs of No refuse dump here anymore.” Once a refuse vehicle clearing rubbish broke down along market road. As the council workers were working on a spot, a passerby reminded them of the broken down vehicle at the market place. Their leader replied, “We cleared it before market women resumed this morning”. In the past such a broken down vehicle would be an obstacle for days if not weeks.

In fact, there is an image change for this town.

This is a chairman who stays in the office. There was a regime when the chairman’s house was his office. Hon. Ejaife Odebala is people oriented who has always had as a slogan “meeting the people at the point of their need.”

This he demonstrated during the 2014 Christmas. The council allocation did not come.

That in essence meant there were no Xmas gifts for the workers. “I looked at their faces and I saw anguish. Taking loan will attract further interest plus…so I footed the bill.” How many leaders would react like that to make their workers happy at such an auspicious period?

According to him, what he’s doing now is phase one to keep the town neat. After this we shall come to the phase of construction, beautification and job creation. He did not elaborate. These were the things He told me during a conservation strictly not intended for public consumption on the pages of the newspaper but for the reporter in me.

But like his pastor-Minister (Dr) Emmanuel Jigbale told him during his thanksgiving service; “You are young, virile and full of ideas. For you the sky is the limit.” *Mr. Etaghene, editorial director of The Bulletin, wrote from Sapele, Delta State.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, MARCH 3, 2015— —19

By Sunny Ikhioya

N

IGERIANS are found all over the world. We must be one of the greatest migratory people on planet earth. Added to this is our acclaimed intelligence in almost every field of human endeavour; for there is always a Nigerian ranking very high up in one field or the other somewhere in the world.

Unfortunately,inspite of this truth, the perception is that we have used our intelligence more on the negative than the positive.

I wish all of those energies being exerted by our 419ners and internet fraudsters are channelled towards positive creativity, we would be amongst the top ranked developed nations by now.

Nigerians travel and their impact are felt anywhere they find themselves. A recent news survey reported that Nigerians are second only to India in the amount of money repatriated back home by immigrants. The Indians are very well known, they never leave behind a penny anywhere they find themselves, all monies are repatriated home but the case of Nigeria is a very interesting one.

Nigerians in diaspora send home money to loved ones, friends and for business and property investments. I am sure the naira position would have been worse than it is presently if the money from Nigerians abroad are not factored in. To that extent, our diasporans have

Getting Nigerians in diaspora to work been very helpful to the Nigerian economy. But, is this all that we can get from them?

Much as the world is becoming a global village, with the internet and changing technologies, you discover that nations are striving harder towards self sufficiency, every nation is trying to depend less on others for their survival and that is the driving thrust of their researches and developments.

The Americans have said tiem and again that they needed to depend less on foreign oil through improved technologies. President Barack Obama used it as one of his anchor campaign focus and today, America has greatly reduced on its crude oil import, leaving oil producing countries like Nigeria floating.

Recently, the country needed special equipments to prosecute the insurgency battle but met stiff resistance from America and her allies who refused to sell.

We cannot be a sovereign nation if we still depend on other countries for basic needs of survival and this is the point I am trying to make with our diasporans.

Have we truly utilized the over abundance of Nigerian talents and professionals covering all the nations of the earth? Do the external affairs ministry and intelligence agencies have a comprehensive list of people of Nigerian descent, all over the world, that can be useful in the core

By Chuks Iloegbunam

M

Y presidential ambition is not worth “ the blood of any Nigerian.”So said President Goodluck Jonathan before the 2011 presidential ballot. To this day, he has continued to reiterate his pacifist message. But entrenched in an antipodal zone is General Muhammadu Buhari who made the following incendiary statement in the Vanguard of May 15, 2012: “If what happened in 2011 should again happen in 2015, by the grace of God, the dog and the baboon would be soaked in blood.” So, where is the basis for comparison between the Nigerian President and the presidential candidate of the APC? Wetin concern centre rank with open order?

The opposition is daily on television, advertising General Obasanjo – a man who traitorously tried but woefully failed to wangle himself into a third, unconstitutional term of presidential office –peering into a script and croakily announcing that Dr. Jonathan had committed himself to a single term of office as President of Nigeria. The opposition’s intention is to portray President Jonathan as untrustworthy. But, all the money thrown into that dubious political advert achieved nothing. This is because, had there been a commitment to a single term, it would have had to come from the mouth of the one expected to live the commitment. But, there sat Dr. Jonathan, astonished, as Obasanjo read a script of his own and his cohorts’ composition, aimed at scoring points that can only be devious. Of course, President Jonathan couldn’t possibly be tied to a questionable pact whose enunciation he knew next to nothing about.

Contrast this to General Buhari, who upon his third successive thrashing at the presidential ballot, addressed a press conference, telling Nigerians on live television that he was through with further participation in partisan politics, including presidential elections.

Who,then has taken Nigerians for a ride?

The one on whose account various schemes were devised to impose a single presidential tenure, or the one who said “No more” only to renege?

C M Y K

need areas of Nigeria?

Development and technology blue prints are not available for free.

They are received through negotiations, espionage or out right stealing. America and China have had protracted conflicts over the years because of issues pertaining to property and intellectual rights.

Sometimes, there is deliberate hacking to get out information.

That is the cause of the present cyber wars. Where is Nigeria in all of these? Every single male Israeli is a reservist and a spy for his country, no matter where he finds himself. Presently, Aljazeera news media is investigating the theft of missile blue prints stolen from South Africa by the Israelis, through the link of an Israeli living in South Africa. The whole world now knows through wikileaks that every American embassy is a spy link for their government, how the ambassadors manipulate key government

In the US, the Jewish community is very influential.

In fact, all over the world, Jewish influence is felt

officials to reveal vital information. In international politics, there are no morals, the country's interest comes first, even if thousands of death are involved, like it is happening in Ukraine, Libya, Syria, Iraq and the rest. The Indians, Chinese, Iranians and many other countries have also joined the spy network.

Unfortunately, apart from South Africa, every other African country is a mere guinea pig for the so called friendly/partnership nations.

I ask again, where do our diasporans fit into this? It is not only to criticize everything about country and home that makes one feel good, one must think of bringing the country at par with the advanced nations one is domicile in. Every developed country today, once experienced hardship and deprivations.

During the great industrial revolution, Great Britain was a mess in terms of human rights records, but people made great sacrifice to get those societies to the level they are today. The challenge of our diasporans is to replicate at home, whatever standards they see and enjoy abroad. No place is like home, no matter how hard one tries to make it home. Even our officials who travel are orderly when they are abroad but immediately they step their feet on the Nigerian soil, disorder sets in, the big man syndrome begins to

Between Jonathan and Buhari (2) In the first half of this submission, it was demonstrated that there existed a stark difference between day and night. Buhari had torn the Nigerian Constitution by shooting himself to power, whereas President Jonathan assumed the highest office in the land on the basis of the people’s mandate. Not only that, the democratic credentials of President Jonathan are selfevident. For instance, despite unprecedented media calumniation, he presented Nigeria with the glittering democratic dividend of the Freedom of Information (FOI) Act.This cannot be said for General Buhari who, as military Head of State, handcuffed and imprisoned the Nigerian media.

In discussing Nigeria’s economy, the best person to speak for the Jonathan administration is Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the Coordinating Minister for the Economy and Minister of Finance:”We are improving infrastructure across the country. For example, 22 airport terminals are being refurbished, and five new international airport terminals under construction in Lagos, Port Harcourt, Kano, Abuja, and Enugu…

“Various road and bridge projects have either been completed or are under construction. Those completed include the Enugu – Abaliki road in Enugu/Ebonyi States, the Oturkpo–Oweto road in Benue State, the Benin–Ore–Shagamu highway, and the Abuja–Abaji–Lokojadualization, and the Kano–Maiduguri dualization. The Lagos – Ibadan expressway and the Second Niger Bridge are under construction.

The fact is that President Jonathan’s best efforts and commendable achievements have, at every turn, been vitiated by negative press contrived by the opposition

“Rail from Lagos to Kano is now functional, as are parts of the rail link between Port Harcourt and Maiduguri. All these have brought transport costs down. We recognize that more needs to be done in the power sector, but bold steps (like the privatization of the GENCOs and DISCOs) have been taken, and our gas infrastructure is being developed to power electricity generation “In Agriculture, over 6 million farmers now have access to inputs like fertilizers and seeds through an e-wallet system, which is more than the 403,222 that had access in 2011. Rice paddy production took off for the first time in our history, adding about 7 million MT to rice supply. An additional 1.3 million MT of Cassava has also been produced and as a result, the rate of food price increase has slowed considerably, according to the NBS. “In Housing, we have put in place a new wholesale mortgage provider – the Nigerian Mortgage Refinance Corporation (NMRC) – to provide affordable mortgages to ordinary Nigerians, starting with those in the lowmiddle income bracket. This sector will help the economy grow as we tap it as an economic driver for the first time.

Mortgage applications from 66,000 people are currently being processed and 23,000 have already received mortgage offers “Our Manufacturing sector is reviving with new automobile plants by Nissan, Toyota, etc. This is in addition to the backward integration policy in key sectors like petrochemical, sugar, textiles, agro processing and cement, which Nigeria is now producing 39,000 MT and exporting to the region.

“The Creative sector is now a factor in our GDP, with Nollywood alone accounting for 1.4 percent, creating over 200,000 direct jobs and nearly 1 million indirect jobs. This is the first Administration to recognize its importance and support its further development with a grant program.”

What is General Buhari going to do about the Nigerian economy?An answer can be

manifest, the noise and bedlam is what we experience.

It is time for Nigeria to leave the present level. We have the resources and the human capital, our foreign ministry must begin to network , identify Nigerians wherever they are, tap into their potentials, arrange regular meetings and exchange ideas with them.

Space technology, aerodynamics, nuclear physics and engineering, IT communications engineering, nano technology, biotech, medicine, science and arts, etc, Nigerians are excelling all over the world, let us bring their influence to bear in the development of our country.

Some will say that they will be frustrated out when they come but it depends on the persons representing us and doing the selling, people like Okonjo Iweala came home and are still home.

Let us create a special department for that in the presidency or attached to the ministry of external affairs, with special budget created for its implementation. Our diasporans are too important to be left alone.

They can even form pressure groups for good and effective governance, not the very partisan type that we have now.

In the US, the Jewish community is very influential.

In fact, all over the world, Jewish influence is felt. This is the picture that I crave for our diasporans. *Mr. Ikhioya, a commentator on national issues, wrote from Lagos.

found in APC’s manifesto on whichEconomics professor Charles Soludo, an ardent sympathizer of the party, has the following adverse commentary: “Buhari and his team must realize that they do not yet have a coherent, credible agenda that is consistent with the fundamentals of the economy currently.

The APC manifesto contains some good principles and wish-lists, but as a blue print for Nigeria’s security and prosperity, it is largely hollow. The numbers do not add up.”

Buhari, a former military Head of State,has thrice tried to be elected president and is currently a presidential candidate. How does one explain that he has but only a “largely hollow” manifesto regarding the country’s future?

While this is pondered, attention should be turned to national security. Alhaji ShehuShagari is alive and well, thanks to God’s abiding mercies. The ex-President can confirm that, after Maitatsine insurgents were crushed under his watch, he told an interviewer that he was grateful to God that the insurgency had happened in his home region because, had it taken place elsewhere, opposition politicians would have accused him of killing civilians who were not his kith and kin. President Jonathan has been in this dilemma. He ordered troops fighting Boko Haram terrorists to be wary of collateral damage. It was one reason the initial sightings of the kidnapped Chibok girls did not lead to military offensive, given that such an action could have endangered the lives of the young girls everybody wants returned alive. Yet, every military move against the terrorists is followed by strident opposition threats to head to The Hague and file suits against “human rights” abuses.

The fact is that President Jonathan’s best efforts and commendable achievements have, at every turn, been vitiated by negative press contrived by the opposition and promoted by international lobbyists who religiously collect their dollars by the millions but care not a hoot whether Nigeria burns or drowns. There is one consolation though: no one can bury the truth. Concluded •Mr. Iloegbunam, an author, wrote from Lagos.

20 — Vanguard, TUESDAY, MARCH 3, 2015

LAND TUSSLE: Feuding families threaten to tear Lagos community apart •Worried residents sue for govt’s intervention

By Esther Onyegbula

T

WENTY four months after, peace is yet to return to Olugbusi/Agufoye Asoga community which has almost been paralysed by violence after land grabbers allegedly unleashed terror there, forcing residents to flee for their dear lives. The violence reached a tragic climax last weekend when two persons were allegedly shot by yet to be identified hoodlums.

Indeed, during a recent visit to the area, Vanguard Metro, VM, was greeted by abandoned construction sites overgrown with bushes and houses demolished at the peak of the crisis. The remains of Lagos State Government Agricultural Poverty Alleviation project and the Olugbusi/ Agufoye Asoga palace were also overgrown with bushes.

Peaceful community VM gathered that the once peaceful community became a war zone after the original dwellers were allegedly chased out by land grabbers.

During the crisis that ravaged the community for over two years, several lives were lost, properties destroyed and governmental projects abandoned. One of such projects was the Lagos State Government Agricultural Poverty alleviation project which was established in 2011 to develop, empower as well as alleviate the plight of dwellers in the area.

Lands allocated for community projects like the maternal health centre and police post were not spared in the crisis as they were reportedly hijacked and sold by intruders.

Apart from the inhabitants, those who bought lands were the most affected by the crisis as they were consistently extorted and threatened by the undesirable elements.

Narrating the genesis of the crisis to VM, the traditional ruler of Olugbusi community in Ikorodu, Olotu Abolaji Omolouju Mukala, said: “Several years

ago, one of our father’s wives brought her younger sister to live with her. She got married to a man from a neighbouring community. We allowed her children farm on our land even though they had theirs in their father’s village.

“Trouble started when we noticed that they wanted to lay claim to our lands. We went to court in 1946 and a verdict was issued and they were told not to farm in our lands or do anything on them because they are our inlaws and not our father ’s children. But rather than stick to the court verdict, they employed various fetish and illegal methods to attack us .

“At the peak of the crisis these people attacked us, employing the services of thugs and some security operatives to intimidate, arrest community leaders and cause trouble in the land.

“In a bid to restore peaceful coexistence within the community, we wrote several petitions to the Lagos State Police Command but JimohTijani aka Babaoloke seem to be above the law when it comes to security in the State.

The serenity we are presently experiencing is a follow-up of the recent petition sent to the

We want government to intervene to ensure there is peace in the community; the whole problem is worrisome as we still work and live in fear of the unknown

*Rage of thugs...Remains of a building demolished during the land crisis.

Force Headquarters Abuja which arrested some of those fomenting trouble in the community.

Although they have been granted bail, investigation is still ongoing.

“We have asked those who abandoned their land and construction site two years back because of the terror he unleashed on them to come back and start developing the land.

We have assured them that any demolition on their properties or estate will be met with appropriate legal actions. We have informed relevant agencies”.

Recounting his bitter experience to VM, one Adesope Adeyinka, said: “I was among the hundreds of persons who bought a piece of land from the Olugbosi family before the crisis with the intention of developing it into a residential abode. I bought a plot of land in the year 2012 for N400, 000. When I purchased the land, several other people who bought had started developing their estates.

“However, trouble started immediately I laid the foundation of the building. Representatives of a rival family led by one JimohTijani chased the family who sold the land to us out of the community. He kept using hired thugs to intimidate and harass me. Initially he asked me to pay N300, 000; later he said I should pay N500, 000 which I refused. Each time I brought labourers to site,Babaoloke and his gang would come and disrupt the work. Most times to enable the building project continue I will be forced to pay between N20, 000 and N30, 000. I had to abandon the project when the extortion became unbearable.”

Narrating his own experience, Bode Olukoya said: “I bought the piece of land for N300, 000 and I was given the Olugbusi family receipt. Later trouble erupted when the other family head

*Olotu Abolaji Omolouju Mukala Babaoloke and his people attacked us with native charms; they asked me to pay another N300, 000. They went ahead and destroyed part of my building which was under construction because I refused to pay N300,000.”

Two plots of land Lamenting, one Yusuf Ajibola, said: “I bought two plots of land for N800, 000 for my brother who lives overseas from the Omolouju family. I was forced to pay ratification twice by the Jimoh Tijani. I paid N750, 000 to them yet they refused us to develop the plot of land with their incessant attacks.”

Mr Chibuzor Owoh, a retired soldier, told VM thus: “In 2013, my wife and I bought two plots of land from the Olugbusi family; we paid N50, 000 for foundation.

We also bought blocks on credit to enable us start the construction as well as continue the work on site. That was when trouble started. I had to abandon the land

to save my life.

In his defence, Jimoh Tijani aka Bakaoloke said: “I was born and brought up in this community; we don’t know Omolouju and we do not recognise him as part of our family. Several years back he wrote a letter to us that he wants to be part of the family which we refused because he is not part of the family. He and coconspirators have been causing trouble in the community. And we will do all that we can to reclaim our inheritance”.

Calling on the Lagos State government and relevant agencies to interfere, one Baba Beji, a renowned bricklayer in the community, said: “We want government to intervene in this issue by calling the parties involved together; let them sign a treaty because the war is affecting everyone. We want the government to intervene to ensure there is peace in the community. We want lasting measures to the crisis. The whole problem is worrisome, as we still work and live in fear of the unknown.”

Vanguard, TUESDAY, MARCH 3, 2015 — 21

SEC suspends rule on membership of Audit Committee

PORT CHARGES:

Shippers Council files for enforcement of judgment

By Godfrey Bivbere

By Peter Egwuatu

T

HE Securities and Exchange Commission, SEC has approved the suspension of Rule 42 (5)(e) of the Consolidated Rules and Regulations of the Commission for 90 days, effective February 25, 2015.

The announcement of the suspension was released yesterday at the commission’s website.

The suspended rule provides: “Membership of an Audit Committee shall be for a term of three (3) years, subject to good performance; Provided, that such Member shall not be eligible for re-election until the

$138.55 $3,100.00

$13.72

1.80

expiration of three (3) years after his previous term”.

The commission explained that the suspension is to allow it sufficient time to enhance the provisions of the said rule and align it with best practice.

Meanwhile, the commission had signed a Memorandum of Understanding, MoU with its counterpart in Angola.

This came on the sidelines of the 34 th International Organisation of Securities Commission, IOSCO AMERC Annual Meeting/Conference held in Muscat, Oman on the 24th February 2015, where an MoU was signed between the Nigerian Securities and

Exchange Commission and the Angolan Comissão do Mercado de Capitais (CMC).

The MoU covers areas of technical support and information sharing between the two countries and seeks to further facilitate exchange of information on issues of common interest between regulators; promote the identification and discussion on specific issues of common interest as well as encourage signatories to develop their markets.

The signing of the MoU was witnessed by the IOSCO Secretary General, Mr. David Wright.

From left: Former President and Patron, Nigerian-British Chamber of Commerce, NBCC, Arc. Thomas Awagu; former President and Patron of NBCC, Chief Michael Olawale-Cole; new Managing Director, Guinness Nigeria, Mr. John O’ Keeffe and President NBCC, Prince Adeyemi Adefulu at the NBCC Premium Members Evening to celebrate the former and new managing director of Guinness, in Lagos.

$50.13 CURRENCY BUYING DOLLAR POUNDS FRANC EURO YEN CFA WAUA RENMINBI RIYAL KRONA SDR

0.05 1.51 0.37

CENTRAL

197 197.5 304.1483 304.9203 207.5651 208.0919 221. 2113 221.7728 1.6505 1.6547 0.3216 0.3316 278.5934 279.3005 31. 4201 31.5003 52. 5263 52.6596 29. 6227 29.6979 278.5974 278.3045

CBN Exchange Rate as at 2/3/15

C M Y K

HE Nigerian Shippers Council, NSC, has gone back to the Federal High Court, praying the court to compel the terminal operators to comply with the earlier judgment declaring that terminal operators have no right to increase port charges.

Recall that the terminal operators had ignored the judgment of the court because they had appealed for stay of execution and had gone to the court of appeal to challenge the judgment. NSC is also praying the court to direct the terminal operators to immediately refund the sum of N150 billion illegally collected in disobedience of the judgment.

Counsel to the Shippers Council, Olisa Agbakoba, Legal Partner OAL, noted that the fact that the terminal operators applied for stay of execution and have gone to the court of appeal, does not stop them from adhering to the earlier judgment.

According to OAL, “We have now filed an application before Mr. Justice I.N Buba to compel the Terminal operators to comply with the judgment pending the determination of the Application for stay of execution and to immediately refund the sum of N150 billion illegally collected in disobedience of the judgment.

OAL noted that the Supreme Court decision in Okafor v. Nnaife[1987] 4 NWLR (P. 64) 126 at 138, where the Court held that it will be unfair to allow a losing Defendant “to continue cutting down and selling economic trees on the land” adjudged by the trial court not to belong to them simply because of a pending application for stay of execution and an appeal.

The firm noted that decision is apt to their case and therefore applying the decision, it is clear that the terminal operators cannot continue to impose and collect illegal charges on the pretext that they have filed a pending application for stay or appeal.

The Counsel to the Shippers Council explained that the essence of the judgment obtained by the NSC is for the overall good of the Nigerian Economy and that it is to stabilize prices and ensure more cargo throughput to Nigerian Ports, halting the yearly loss of over N2 trillion potential revenue to the Nigerian government caused by excessive and illegal port charges by terminal Operators.

49.00

Agric firm demands review of Land Use Act

By Franklin Alli

$61.07

T

198 305.6922 208.6187 222.3342 1.6588 0.3416 280.0076 31. 5805 52.793 29. 7731 280.0116

E

LEPHANT Group Africa (one of the key operators in the agricultural sector of the economy), has called on the Federal Government to review the Land Use Act so as to lessen difficulties in acquiring land for agricultural purposes by incestors.

The company has also requested the Bank of Agriculture, BOA, to relax its loan conditions so that many farmers can have access to the facility faster.

The Managing Director of the company, Mr. Tunji Owoeye, made the call at the weekend when he hosted the executive members of Nigerian Association of Agricultural Journalists (NAAJ) who paid courtesy visit to his office in Lagos.

Owoeye said the review of the Land Use Act has become necessary so as to ease dif-

ficulties in acquiring land for agricultural purposes.

He also reiterated the need for Bank of Agriculture to relax some of their policies so that many farmers can have access

Politicising agriculture will adversely affect several revolutionary policies of the present government

to the floans to grow their business and the sector. He advised Politicians to desist from playing politics with the sector warning that it could have dire consequences on the country.

According to him, politicising agriculture will adversely affect several revolutionary policies of the present government which are impacting positively on agriculture in Nigeria.

Fielding question onthe current agric policies, he replied “I used to be one of the pessimists who ferociously opposed the policies put forward by the Minister of Agriculture, Dr. Akinwunmi Adeshina because I thought the policies are aggressive, ambitious and unachievable but four years down the lane, they are not just achievable but are already yielding results that a lot of countries want to come to Nigeria to copy the agricultural policies of the country.”

22 — Vanguard, TUESDAY, MARCH 3, 2015

To succeed as an investor, you must accept this reality, and stop searching for risk free investments. Also, you must accept the correlation between risk and return (profit) on investment, which is, the higher the profit, the higher the risk

,

TOP 10 PERFORMING STOCKS

BY NKIRUKA NNOROM

O

n the top 10 performing stocks last week were shares of UAC of Nigeria Plc. Union Bank of Nigeria Plc, Julius Berger Nig. Plc, Access Bank of Nigeria Plc, Ikeja Hotels Plc, and Chemical and Allied Products, CAP Plc. Others were Flour Mills of Nigeria Plc, Transnational Corporation of Nigeria, Transcorp Plc, Trans Nationwide express Plc and Guaranty Trust Bank Plc. UAC of Nigeria plc, which has over the last three years involved in active acquisition of other business interests in to diversifying its business and stamping its foot in key sectors of the economy, led the pack with 18.74 percent or N6.37 price appreciation, closing at N40.37 from N34.00 at the beginning of the week.

Some of the acquisitions include take-over of 51 percent majority stake in Chemical and Allied Products Plc, Portland Paints and Products Plc and Livestock Feeds Plc among others. Consequently investors’ confidence of the company has taken a turn for the better, as the share price has grown by 160.96 percent to N67.85 from N26.00 in 52 weeks.

Last year, UAC emerged the winner in conglomerates category of PEARL Awards, an annual event that has been on in the past 19 years to promote excellence and honour deserving corporates organisations listed on the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE). According to organizers of the award, the 2014 awards were determined utilizing nine key performance indices namely; turnover growth, return on equity, earning yield, share price appreciation, dividend cover, dividend yield, net asset ratio, dividend growth and profit margin ratio.

The half year financial results for period ended June showed a 7.8 percent growth in revenue to N40.3 billion from N37.3 billion in the corresponding period of 2013.

The company’s cost of sales rose by 11.3 percent from N27.9 billion to N31 billion.

Other income grew by 68 per cent from N1.362 billion to N2.28 billion, demonstrating the company’s capacity to generate income from areas other than its core business.

The profit after tax improved from N3.31 billion to N3.481 billion, while earnings per share rose from 84 kobo to 103 kobo.

UBN ranked second with 15.76 percent or N1.34 increase, closing at N9.84 from N8.50 per

share. UBN was among 10 Nigerian banks that a global rating agency, Fitch Ratings, affirmed their long-term Issuer Default Ratings (IDRs) in its latest rating report. According to Fitch, “the IDRs of Union Bank and that of FBN, UBA, Diamond Bank, Fidelity Bank and FCMB are supportdriven. Available unaudited financial statement of the bank for nine months ended 30th September 2014 showed that the group’s gross earnings fell to N74.8 billion from N79.9 billion recorded in the same period in 2013.

Also, its interest income declined to N56.2 billion from the N60.6 billion in the third quarter of 2013.

The group’s profit before tax, however, climbed to N8.3 billion from N6.8 billion posted in the previous year.

Commenting on the bank’s third quarter activities, its Group Managing Director/CEO, Mr. Emeka Emuwa, said: “Our third quarter activities were focused on continuing and consolidating our transformation efforts to ensure we maintain strategic focus in key areas and deliver operating results according to plan.”

Julius Berger closed as the third most active, rising by 15.55 percent or N5.92 to close at N44.00 from N38.08 per share. The company was recently indicted by the Nigerian Stock Exchange, NSE, for non-disclosure of the s u b s t a n t i a l shareholding of Oasis Petroleum Company Limited, which holds 9.8 percent stake in the company, in its 2011 Annual Reports and Account. For this offense, the NSE had fined the construction company N1.47 million last year.

Market watchers are of the opinion that recent rally towards the stock is in anticipation of expected cash reward as indicated by its dividend payment history. The company had in 2013 paid a cash dividend of N2.70 per share along side bonus issue of one for 10, after paying N2.50 the previous year.

Access Bank trailed behind with 14.29 percent or N0.80 gains to close at n6.40 from N5.60; Ikeja Hotels added 12.95 percent or N0.43 to close at N3.75 from N3.32; CAP Plc went up by 10.19 percent or N3.68 to close at N39.78 from N36.10; F M N advanced by 9.59 percent or N3.02 to close at N34.50 from N31.48; Transcorp’s shares rose by 9.39 percent or N0.23 to close at N2.68 from N2.45; Transnationwide Express recorded 8.99 percent or N0.08 price increase, closing at N0.97 from N0.89, while GTB added 7.90 per cent or N1.72 to its share price to close at N23.50 from N21.78 per share.

, INVESTOR

How about non-financial investment?

By Babajide Komolafe

I

N the last edition, we published some of the responses of readers to the series on “You Can Invest”.

Among other things, these responses reflect that Nigerians are interested in investment, and they are willing to learn, or acquire the necessary

knowledge. Some of the responses were from young people, below 25 years, which is good for the future of the country. One salient revelation from the responses is that if the operators and regulators in the economy devote more time and resources to enlightening and educating the populace about investment, more and

more people will imbibe investment as a habit, leading to increased participation of local investors in the nation’s financial market.

Some readers are scared of investment in financial instruments like shares, bonds, mutual funds etc. They want to know if there are alternatives to these investment options. Now some of them just believe (erroneously) that shares, bonds and other financial

MARKET NEWS

NB ventures into bitters market

By Princewill Ekwujuru

N

IGERIAN Breweries, NB Plc, NSE has said that it is venturing into the Nigeria bitters drink market with ACE Roots.

Speaking at the launch in Lagos, Sales Director of NB, Mr. Herbert Eze, said the new drink which is made from African

herbal extracts, fruits and spices is first of its kind low sugar herbal drink.

He said, ‘ACE ‘’Roots’’ symbolizes a call to action for everyone; customers and consumers to go back to their roots of true African herbs, fruits and spice extracts with Low Sugar. It is a great innovation, one that we at

Nigerian Breweries are very proud of, and we are confident our young and vibrant consumers will appreciate this game changing brand’.

Eze also noted that the product has been created for health conscious Nigerians who want to embrace their rich cultural heritage and celebrate life, success and companionship with an uncontrolled cheerful and colourful African spirit. Blending good health

SOCIAL MEDIA WEEK: From left: Head, Brand Strategy & Special Project Marketing & Corporate Communications, Mr. Yinka Ijabiyi; Blogger, Ms Ajibade Tosin, Co-Founder of 360nobs.com; Mr. Oye Akideinde, Head, Sponsorship & Events, Marketing & Corporate Communications, FirstBank Nigeria Plc; Mrs. Bridget Oyefeso-Odusami, CEO, Anakle; Mr. Editi Effiong and Moderator, Mr. Lanre Olusola at 2015 Social Media Week “WhatIF” powered

by FirstBank, in Lagos.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, MARCH 3, 2015 — 23

instruments are frauds, or full of risks, hence they want to avoid such investment.

The first response to these readers is, yes there are alternative investment channels beyond these financial instruments. But they are also full of risks. Every human activity or anything on this earth has an element of risk. Risk is basically the possibility that something unexpected, costly and harmful will happen. In the primitive, agrarian society, where subsistence farming was the most readily available investment, the expectation of harvest, or returns, is based on good weather, adequate rainfall and sunshine. Now these are factors not within the control of the farmer (investor). There is always the risk of inadequate rainfall (drought) and

To succeed as an investor, you must accept this reality, and stop searching for risk free investments

and high spirits with the unmistakable strong taste of 14 African herbs and spices He said: “ACE Roots was the result of a painstaking customer research which NB carried out. We have discovered that in addition to being young, ambitious and enterprising, today’s Nigerian consumer is also African. They do not just live in Africa, Africa lives in them as well

The product has been created for health conscious Nigerians who want to embrace their rich cultural heritage and celebrate life, success and companionship with an uncontrolled cheerful and colourful African spirit

hence poor harvest. In every type of investment or business activities, there are many factors that are beyond the control of those involved, hence they are unpredictable and uncertain. In addition to these factors is the fact that human beings are prone to making mistakes, some genuine, some stupid.

To succeed as an investor, you must accept this reality, and stop searching for risk free investments. Also, you must accept the correlation between risk and return (profit) on investment, which is, the higher the profit, the higher the risk. Furthermore, learn the two basic ways of handling risks.

The first is to identify sources of risks, and put in place measures to reduce their occurrence. For example, using cheque to pay for an investment instead of cash reduces the possibility of theft by the agent.

The second is to identify sources of risks and prepare to reduce the impact of their occurrence.

For example, there is always the possibility of having a flat tyre when you drive. But having a spare tyre can reduce the impact (e.g. time loss) of that occurrence. In summary, rather than seeking for risk-less investment, always ask, what are the risks in this investment?

and they want some Africa in their food, fashion, music and drink” Continuing, he stated, “We decided to create a product which combines all that this consumer wants and ACE Roots is the result. We have also faithfully adhered to original African recipes in the choice of fruits, herbs extracts and spices used for the drink.

These are actual extracts and not flavourings which make us confident that our customers and consumers will love the freshness of the product. ACE Roots has an authentic African soul like those who drink it.”

With several ADVAN awards and a successful merger with Consolidated Breweries in 2014, Nigerian Breweries has demonstrated its place as Nigeria’s industry leader and continues to premier consumer choice with novel innovations.

The ACE brand was introduced in December with ‘’ ACE Passion Apple Spark’’.

ACE Roots is made up of very low sugar alongside 14 natural Herbs, fruits and spices in a unique 60cl green bottle, other options will follow shortly.

,

S FORUM

Demutualization will really help the investors because when people know that their own exchange is also quoted, there are some of the ways they will regulate better than when they have no stake

,

INVESTORS SPEAK

Demutualisation of Stock Exchange will attract more companies

S

ecurities and Exchange Commission SEC, the apex regulatory agency of the Nigerian capital market, stepped up efforts for the demutualisation of The Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE), when it issued “Exposure draft rules on demutualisation of exchanges in Nigeria.”

Shareholders in this interview commend the move which they describe as a welcome development that they have been expecting long time ago.

By PROVIDENCE OBUH Mr. Taiwo Oderinde - National Coordinator at Proactive Shareholders Association of Nigeria: It is better because we are part of the groups that have been advocating the demutualisation of the Stock Exchange.

If you look at some jurisdictions, some of their Exchanges are quoted while they try to adopt different models which we are trying to adopt presently.

Demutualization will really help the investors because when people know that their own exchange is also quoted, there are some of the ways they will regulate better than when they have no stake.

They are now aware that any regulation they are bringing will also affect them too. It will make them to be more proactive and it will make them to be able to do things in a business like manner.

Aside from that, you discover that it will attract more companies to our Exchange and moreover it will encourage more investors, most especially the core

•Taiwo Oderinde investors and the institutional investors such as PFA’s and international investors.

This is one area that will help the stock market and we the investors. This is thinking in the right arrangement.

Mr. Sunny Nwosu - National it becomes everybody ’s property Coordinator of the Independent which will be managed by a board that Shareholders Association of Nigeria would be appointed and approved by (ISAN): At some point the association of the shareholders. So we are very much shareholders took a step that there must inclined to the demutualisation of the be demutualisation of the Stock Exchange because that Stock Exchange because that The benefit of is the only way out. It has has been the problem right created a lot of problem, the from time when some people this money bags dragging each wanted to buy over the whole demutualization o t h e r, and both the of the Stock Exchange but m a n a g e m e n t o f S t o ck is that you are Exchange want to hold it and we disagreed and told them to demutualise the Exchange actually going we are saying no to it. SEC and that no body should have to earn from must do it and do it properly. more than five percent and They have been ineffective in they should spread it in a where you put handling it before because of way that all the investors on in all your the politicisation of the issue the Stock Exchange would money and rationalising it with the also have a stake, so that level of relationship with some of the people.

The benefits of this demutualisation is that you are actually going to earn from where you put in all your money.

I am not pretending to be a capitalist.

My capitalism has actually been practiced on the Stock Exchange and all the money and my savings by every standard is being invested through the Exchange. So, whatever comes out of there too should also be distributed as dividend to those who throughout their lives have patronised the Exchange and it has to be according to the shares you are having, just like in the other capital markets.

•Sunny Nwosu

24 — Vanguard, THURSDAY, MARCH 3, 2015

Investors gain N240bn in 5 days ...As naira maintains biggest fall in February

By Peter Egwuatu, with agency reports

T

he postponed general elections may not have affected the Nigerian stock market significantly as it maintained the longest regaining streak as investors, last week, gained N240 billion in five days, just as the Naira suffered its biggest monthly fall in over five years this February, 2015 following the drop in global oil price.

Specifically, all the stock market performance indicators throughout last week went up, with the market capitalisation, which represents the total value of shares traded on the Nigerian Stock Exchange, NSE closed N10.044 trillion on Friday as against N9.804 trillion recorded the penultimate week. For two weeks running, investors had regained N840 billion as market capitalisation rose from N9.204 billion on February 13, 2015 to close at N10.044 billion last Friday.

Also, yesterday, equities trading on the floor of Nigerian Stock Exchange, NSE opened the week in the green zone though with a weak momentum, and the NSE All Share Index appreciated by 0.54 per cent to close at 30,267.18. points The key value drivers were the Banking stocks gaining 1.77 per cent and the Consumer Goods rising by 0.68 per cent.

However, the Industrial stocks traded flat.

Operators stated that investors bought companies they deemed oversold last week following declines spurred by concern lower oil prices and elections.

They further noted that bargain hunters are taking advantage of the low price of a number of stocks. According to them “They have suffered far beyond what the fundamentals would suggest, largely on the back of oil and foreign investors coming out of the market ahead of the elections.”

The All share index, another significant performance indicators of the stock market last week increased by 1,798.67 points from 29,383.93 points penultimate Friday to close at 27,585.26 points last Friday.

Meanwhile, dealers in the money market have cited concerns over political uncertainty and the central bank’s ability to manage a currency hammered by weak oil prices as the major reasons for drop in naria.

The naira shed 8.3 percent to the dollar in February,

dealers said, worse than a 6.9 percent fall in November after the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN devalued the currency by 8 percent in order to save its foreign reserves. However, reserves have fallen steadily and were down 8.6 percent by February 26 from a month ago, to stand at $31.46 billion after

central bank stepped up support for the currency.

The naira closed at 202 on the inter-bank market on Friday, a level it broadly traded at this week, dealers said. A sale was carried out on Friday just before the interbank market closed, at 198 naira for $82.9 million,

Thomson Reuters data showed. Dealers attributed the trade to a dollar sale by the central bank. At its weakest, the naira was quoted at a record low of 206.60 to the dollar earlier this month, a decline of 20 percent since the start of November.

From left: Sam Onyemelukwe; Managing Director Trace Nigeria and Godfrey Efeurhobo, Chief Sales Officer, Airtel Nigeria, during the Final Presentation of Airtel Trace Music Star in Lagos.

LCCI commends Senate decision to cut NASS budget by 25%

By Naomi Uzor

T

he Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry, LCCI, has commended the Senate’s decision to cut the 2015 National Assembly (N/A) budget by 25 per cent (N37.5 billion) from N150 billion to N112.5 billion.

The President of LCCI, Alhaji Remi Bello, in a statement said, “The chamber commends the outcome of the deliberations of the Senate on the 2015 Draft Budget, the Medium Term Expenditure Framework [MTEF] and the Fiscal Strategy Paper [FSP], as many of the decisions are consistent with current realities and desired spending priorities for national development.”

Continuing, he said “We Commend the Senate’s decision to cut the 2015 National Assembly budget by 25 per cent (N37.5 billion) from N150 billion to N112.5 billion. This will definitely free up resources to finance other priorities. . The increase of the capital budget from N633 billion to N700 billion is good news. However, this figure remains grossly inadequate in

the light of the huge infrastructure deficit in the country and the urgent need to build a robust and sustainable non-oil economy.

The senate’s decision to reduce the recurrent expenditure by N116 billion from N2.61 to N2.5 trillion is a welcome development.

Although a more drastic reduction in recurrent budget was desirable”.

He further stated that the chamber endorses and

It is desirable to streamline all forms of overlap between the MDAs and consider the option of consolidating most

commends the stance of the senate on the provision for the contentious Service Wide Vote in the draft 2015 budget, adding that, the decision to scrap this provision is salutary in the light of the transparency issues that have marred the Service Wide Vote over the years.

According to him, “the Chamber is in agreement with the Senate that it is better to devolve the responsibilities defined under the service wide vote to the relevant MDAs for ease of tracking and performance measurement.

“We note and applaud the Senate’s decision to put an end to the duplications in the budgetary provisions for amnesty programme and the Ministry of Niger Delta and the decision to consolidate all such activities in the Niger Delta Ministry.

“It is desirable to streamline all forms of overlap between the MDAs and consider the option of consolidating most of the overlapping activities. This will save the nation a great deal of financial and human resources.”

BRIEF

Expert calls for establishment of PPP Resource Centre in Nigeria

By Jonah Nwokpoku

F

inance expert, Dr. Boniface Chizea has called for the establishment of a Public Private Partnership, PPP resource Centre that will enhance capacity building in PPP executive and drive infrastructural development in the country.

He made the call while speaking at the 20th Centre for Value in Leadership, CVL ‘Leader Without Title’ Leadership colloquium in honour of Alhaji Rasak Akanni Okoya to mark his 75th birthday in Lagos.

Speaking on the theme: Productivity Growth: The challenge of PPP, Chizea said that the establishment of the Resource Centre would among other things “facilitate the development of criteria for project definition, identification and prioritisation; articulate suitable project evaluation guidelines; build the capacity and knowledge base for PPP in the country and provide a structured platform to interface with the private sector.”

He added that such centre would also help to “market project opportunities to local and international promoters, address labour and other stakeholder concerns and nurture projects from inception to completion.”

Earlier in an address, the founder of CVL, Prof. Pat. Utomi while acknowledging the giant strides of Chief Okoya in Nigeria’s economy especially in the manufacturing sector, said: “PPP can help energise the economy, even though we live at time when the government seems to be in retreat, handing over everything to the private sector.

“This abdication does not amount to being private sector friendly. At the heart of successful of PPPs are the state of the law, property rights institutions, and the culture of enterprise which is based on integrity and commitment to the spirit of contracts and commitment.”

A strong panel consisting of professionals such as Dr. Reginald Odia, Dr. Boniface Chizea, Arc. T. C Awagu and Mr. Agele Alufohai and moderated by Prof. Utomi explored the costs and benefits of PPP and how the initiative could be deployed to effectively drive Nigeria’s economic growth especially infrastructural development.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, MARCH 3, 2015—25

Soaring exchange rate unsettles construction industry •Who will bell the cat?

By Jude Njoku

T

he free fall of the Naira against the US Dollar has unsettled the nation’s fledgling construction industry and created an atmosphere of uncertainty which is scaring potential investors away from the sector regarded as the barometer for measuring the nation’s economy.

These views were canvassed by built environment experts who spoke to Vanguard Homes & Property in separate interviews.

The Registrar, Quantity Surveyors Registration Board of Nigeria, QSRBN, Mr Godson Moneke, Immediate past Chairman of the Lagos State chapter of the Nigerian Institute of Quantity Surveyors, NIQS, Mr Olayemi Shonubi and the President of the Building Collapse Prevention Guild, BCPG, Mr Kunle Awobodu were unanimous in calling on the Federal Government to save the sector from total collapse by taking urgent steps to shore up the value of the Naira against major world currencies. They also called of an increase in the budgetary allocation to capital projects as this is the only way of boosting activities in the sector.

Awobodu who is a a former chairman of the Lagos State branch of the Nigerian Institute of Building, NIOB, noted that when a nation’s currency suffers serious depreciation, it will impact negatively on the economy and this will reflect on all sectors including the construction industry”.

High cost of imported building materials Explaining that most

materials used in the building and construction industry are imported, Awobodu noted that the devaluation of the Naira has jerked up the prices of imported construction materials . What this means is that projects under construction will have their contract sums reviewed upwards due to obvious inflationary trends.

He posited that even the prices of locally produced building materials like cement have gone up. “The reason is because the cost of maintenance has gone up.

Although Nigeria has abundant supply of limestone, most of the spare parts for the plants are imported. Gypsum which is one of the raw materials used in cement production is still being imported,” he said, adding that these factors have reflected on the cost of cement.

“Beyond this, workers will also agitate for increase in their salaries because the present pay packet is no longer sustainable. The cost of production will rise and those who had the intention of embarking upon new projects will suspend it. The result is a reduction in the tempo of construction activities,”he said. The saying that one man’s meat is another man’s poison may be playing out according to Awobodu. He opined that those living abroad who intend to embark on new projects will celebrate the present scenario because they will spend less to actualise their projects. “If they had planned to spend $5000, they may end up spending $4000, “he said Stagnancy His views were corroborated

by Mr Shonubi who opined

*Shonubi

*Moneke

*Track Laying Train, At The Official Commencement of The Track Laying Of Abuja (Idu)-kaduna

that the consistent devaluation of the Naira and the fall in the price of crude oil, have stalled

Go round the country, hardly can you see any new developments springing up.

Everything appears to be stagnant because nobody is sure of when the Naira will pick up

further developments in the country. Mr Shonubi stated that the cost of construction has gone up because most building materials – tiles, sanitary fitting, electrical fittings and furnishings are imported.

“You will recall that last year, Dangote Cement Plc announced a price reduction for its various grades of cement. But what is happening today? The price of cement has gone up since the devaluation of the Naira to about N1,800 per 50kg bag,”he said, adding that no sensible developer will embark on new developments with the situation on ground.

“Go round the country, hardly can you see any new

Why we demolished Catholic church’s fence —LASG

By Kingsley Adegboye

T

he Lagos state government said last week that the demolition of the fence of St. Peters Claver Catholic Church, in Ajao-Estate was not an attempt to take over anyone’s property.

The government claimed that the demolition was based on the overall public interest, as the said wall should not have been annexed in the first place.

Reverend Father Hyginus Nwaze, a Priest in the church had alleged that the removal of the walls violates the church property.

But the government in a statement

*Awobodu

insisted that it did not violate the church’s property.

“It is necessary to state the fact as it is. The government did not violate the church’s property. The said piece of land, where the wall was erected, is not part of the Church but was annexed by the church to use as a car park. It is not within the C of O of the church. This annexation did not confer ownership. Also, there had been several stakeholders’ meetings involving the church community, community leaders and officials where the issues were discussed and agreed. In particular, Reverend Father Paul Anyasi represented the church. The Parish pastor who spoke,

we are aware, is new to the parish and may not be fully aware of the issues. There is also the need to recall the reconstruction effort of the State Government began in the aftermath of the January 27 disaster which led to the loss of lives.

The reconstruction of the bridge linking Ajao Estate to Ejigbo had also meant an increase population of people using the road. To meet the demands of vehicles using the area and create a necessary bypass, the Johnson Umejie Close had to be removed. This will enable a thoroughfare between Kolawole Shonibare Street and Baale Shekoni,” the statement explained.

developments springing up.

Everything appears to be stagnant because nobody is sure of when the Naira will pick up. The government is not helping matters. As we speak, the budget has not been passed into law and until this is done, no major construction activity can take place because nobody knows the policy thrust. The government is not ready to fund the economy because it is only through capital expenditure that the economy will grow. A situation where a very large percentage of the budget estimates is devoted to recurrent expenditure is not healthy for the economy,”he said.

On his part, Mr Moneke described the present scenario as a storm in the tea cup because the Naira will pick up affect the general elections when politicians who are allegedly buying up all the dollar will release them. “If the Naira recovers quickly, things will normalise. What is happening is like a storm in the tea cup, except the government doesn’t do enough to restore confidence in the economy. There is no cause for alarm because the domestic economy is relatively stable. It is only the foreign components that are affected and this is largely artificial. My projection is that three months after the elections, when there is calm, the Naira will pick up. I foresee only a slight adjustment of not more than 20 percent,”he said.

Moneke also expects the price of crude oil to rise to $70 a barrel.

26—Vanguard, TUESDAY, MARCH 3, 2015

Haven Homes delivers 2015 designs

Richmond Gate Estate, Lekki

By Paul Ojenagbon

A

fter almost a decade of successfully delivering affordable luxury homes, Haven Homes has completed and delivered a brand new set of home designs to subscribers at its Richmond Gate Estate in Lekki.

Speaking on the concept behind the 2015 home designs, Sonuga explained that the new designs were conceptualized with more sensuality and adaptation to the natural environment of the estate. “We have improved on our style and you can now see that the new home designs externally are curvier and wavier, which are adaptations of the homes to the movement

of the sea”, he said.

“The choice of colours for the homes is now more subtle and tranquil. This is to adapt to the natural environment around the estate which is dominantly beach-white. Internally, we have chosen the spectacular elliptical staircase design that depicts elegance and also displays grandeur. We have also celebrated walls with niches which can be highlighted with various colours to display flowers or works of art. Our lightings have also improved significantly and we have introduced a new lighting concept known as star-lights”, Sonuga added.

Explaining that Haven Homes is already a trailblazer when it comes to distinct home

designs in Nigeria, Sonuga says although the 2015 home designs may soon be copied by other developers as was the case with other designs before it, however there are a lot of hidden messages within the design concept that may not be easily grasped.

“It will not be easy to copy these new designs. Although there will soon be attempts to do that but I can assure you that the originality behind the concept will still remain with Haven Homes”. ‘’Our architects, Play In Architecture (Winner of Designer of the year 2014 Award) are also currently working on our 2017 designs as we speak” Sonuga added.

On Richmond Gate Estate, Sonuga says the estate is

already becoming a much desired residential address amongst classy Nigerians. The estate, which recently won the ‘Affordable development of the

It will not be easy to copy these new designs.

Although there will soon be attempts to do that but I can assure you that the originality behind the concept will still remain with Haven Homes

year’ at the 3invest 2014 Real Estate Awards, is now home to several expatriate workers with Chevron, Julius Berger and staff of other multinational companies. “Apart from 2face Idibia and AY the comedian who already live in the estate with their families, other well known entertainment acts have also moved into the estate.

Beyond the success recorded in terms of attracting prime clients, Sonuga added that the estate has also turned out to be a wonderful source of investment for subscribers.

“People who have bought houses from us have had significant and almost an unbelievable capital gains on their investments. It’s interesting to note that the initial units that were sold in 2012 for N50million had risen to N75million by 2014 and currently sell for N85million”, he enumerated.

Highlighting the improvements that have been achieved in terms of additional infrastructure within the estate, Sonuga explained that there is now a standard recreation centre within the estate which has a standard swimming pool, gymnasium, basketball court and lawn tennis court, minimart and standard family relaxation centre.

Housing units in Richmond Gate Estate are available in 4bedrooms on over 3 floors with double volume master bedroom, fully fitted kitchen and lavishly designed bathrooms and toilets. Added to that is an indoor fountain and multimedia wiring that allows audio and video signals across the entire home. The estate is located by the Ikate Roundabout after Lekki Phase 1, behind the Meadow Hall School.

Nigeria may soon access $10m UNFCCC adaptation fund

By Funmi Olasupo

N

igeria is at the verge of accessing the $10million United Nation Framework Convention on Climate Change, UNFCCC adaptation fund.

The Adaptation Fund, AF was established in 2001 with the aim of financing adaptation projects and programmes in developing country parties to the Kyoto Protocol who are vulnerable to the adverse effects of climate change.

Speaking at the sidelines of the meeting between the Federal Ministry of Environment and key development partners led by the World Bank and UNIDO, the Deputy Director in the Department of Climate Change, Mr. Ricky Tarfa disclosed that the Federal government has fulfilled one of the basic requirements to

Minister of Environment, Mrs. Laurentia Mallam,Permanent Secretary, Mrs.Nana Fatima Mede and Mr. Amos Abu, of the World Bank during the climate change meeting. benefit from the adaptation fund by appointing Bank of Industry, BOI as the National Implementing Entity, NIE. In assessing the fund, the benefiting country, among other requirements, is expected to appoint a designated implementing authority. Tarfa noted that

having fulfilled the NIE requirement, Nigeria’s application is now before the accreditation panel of the UNFCCC for processing.

Explaining the procedures, Tarfa said, “In accessing the adaptation fund, there are procedures and one of the procedures is to put in place

a national implementing entity and we have nominated Bank of Industry. Getting an NIE is not an easy task because of the fiduciary standards and other requirements around it. They want an institution that has the capacity to manage international funds. We did a scoping exercise that was supported by DFID for us to arrive at BOI. For now the application is before the accreditation panel.

On the expected amount Nigeria can access from the adaptation fund, he explained the amount that could be drawn by any benefitting nation had been pegged to $10million per project.

Also speaking during the meeting, the Minister of Environment, Mrs. Laurentia Mallam sought the financial and technical support of the development partners on key areas of the environment.

Some of the identified areas include, development of National Policy Framework on

Pollution management, Operationalisation of the National Greenhouse Gas Inventory System, NGIS and establishment of Drought Early Warning System for eight frontline states.

Mrs. Laurentia described climate change as a global phenomenon requiring all hands on deck to checkmate the ugly trend.

The Minister said the present administration was desirous to create a sustainable environment, and called on all stakeholders to join hands with the government in its quest to bequeath a healthier environment to the nation.

Also speaking, Mr. Amos Abu who represented the World Bank Country Director, Ms. Marie Francoise MarieNelly, promised to assist Nigeria in its priotised areas.

He said that World Bank had been assisting Nigeria on a number of projects in the areas of climate change and other environmental challenges and would not relent.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, MARCH 3, 2015—27

FG, developers wrap up plans to develop N700bn Abuja City Centre

By Henry Umoru

P

RESIDENT Goodluck Jonathan will flag-off the development of Abuja City Centre, estimated at $3.5 billion, before May 29, 2015. This assurance was given last week by the Minister, Federal Capital Territory Administration, FCTA, Senator Bala Mohammed when investors in the project made an indepth presentation to the FCT Administration’s team. He described the project as one of the milestone achievements of the present administration.

Messrs Chicason Group, according to the Minister, will execute the N700 billion project in partnership with an international developer, Messrs Eagle Hills of Abu Dhabi.

The Minister who reaffirmed the resolve of the Jonathan administration to to make Abuja the tourist destination

of Africa, said this was the reason behind the the development of City on 17 hectares of prime land.

Abuja City Centre would be a mixed-use development that has the capacity to generate about 10,000 jobs with its multiplier effect on the economy of the entire country.

Bala said the FCT Administration would enjoy five percent equity share holding in the Abuja City Centre Development Company Limited which is a special purpose company incorporated to own and operate the Centre.

“The land premium as well as the development control charges accruable to the FCT Administration would be used as its equity contribution to the project. In addition, the investors would construct a National Mall at the cost of 40 million US Dollars at no cost to the FCT Administration,” he said.

The FCT Permanent

* Proposed Abuja City Centre

Secretary, Mr John O. Chukwu, an engineer, FCDA Executive Secretary, Adamu Ismaila, also an engineer, as well as other technical directors of the FCT Administration attended the presentation session.

Also speaking during the presentation, Jaimal Shergill, Executive Director - Africa,

Eagle Hills, Abu Dhabi disclosed that Abuja City Centre project comprises of four international hotels, residential houses, offices, shops as well as condominium which would further stimulate economic activities not only in Abuja but in the entire West Africa sub region.

He assured that the ground

breaking of the Centre would be undertaken before May 29, 2015, adding that the entire project would be executed in two phases.

On the team of the investors was the Chairman of Chicason Group, Chief Chika Okafor and Odunayo Ojo, Director of Development and Projects, Eagle Hills, Abu Dhabi.

UN-Habitat launches call for Urban Youth Fund applications

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N-Habitat last week, launched call for applications for the Urban Youth Fund. In its seventh year, the Fund provides grants to projects led by young people aged 15-32 years who are piloting innovative approaches to employment, good urban governance, shelter, secure tenure and risk rehabilitation.

The Fund aims to assist youth-led organizations in designing and implementing projects that will contribute to sustainable urbanization in the developing world. It also seeks

to gain insight from successful grassroots youth projects and create greater awareness of the need for youth mainstreaming in development policies and strategies.

This year’s call for proposals strongly encourages applicants to ensure their projects include the following criteria: *A strategy to work with cities and or local authorities in order to maximize their ability at making an impact at the policy level. One of the key objectives of UNHabitat’s youth programme is to enhance the capacity of local authorities to mainstream youth issues into their

UN-Habitat embraces the belief that youth are a solution for sustainable urban development; the 21st session of the UN-Habitat Governing Council recognized this

African Environment Ministers meet in Cairo, seek poverty eradication S

takes are high for the African Ministerial Conference on Environment, AMCEN which began yesterday in the Egyptian capital city of Cairo. AMCEN and African civil society groups expect that the conference will define a concrete blueprint that will guide the continent to discussions on the Sustainable Development Goals, SDGs to be concluded in New York and Paris climate change conference that is likely to agree on a new climate change agreement, which will come into effect by 2020.

A report in EnviroNews, an online publication on the environment, quoted Dr. Khaled Mohamed Fahmy Abdel Aal, the Egyptian Minister of Environment as saying that AMCEN wants to “crystalise a strong position when it comes to climate change and SDGs. We want

to link environment with economy. We want to work on poverty eradication and job creation for our young population,” Stakeholders expressed concerns that Africa was now more than ever before experiencing adverse consequences of climate change.

“Annual temperature is consistently increasing. We need to keep temperature lower than two degrees.

For adaptation only we need between $7 to15 billion. If the trend continues by 2050, we will need $100 billion,” said Mounkaila Goumandakoye, Director and Regional Representative, UNEPROA. At the forum, civil society stressed that it was crucial for AMCEN to develop a common assessment and analysis of international climate change dialogue processes, outcomes and consultations, to provide all-inclusive

analysis of the latest Open Working Group on SDGs’ Environmental Sustainability Goal, and explore whether a stand-alone goal on climate change would be the best option for Africa in the ongoing debate on Post-2015 Development Agenda. The civil society also proposed that an assessment and analysis on Africa’s effort to address illegal wildlife and biodiversity trade as a way of natural resource conservation and management should be developed.

“The selection of the 15th AMCEN Session’s theme, ‘Managing Africa’s Natural Capital for Sustainable Development and Poverty Eradication,’ resonates with this year ’s spirit, where two most important global agreements which will determine the future resource governance, will be concluded.

programmes and services. * The inclusion of the Human Rights Based Approach during projects’ implementation. The human rights based approach will be presented as a cross cutting issue toward the various UN- Habitat thematic areas in the projects’ goals.

This is with the aim to empowering people to know and claim their rights. This also serves to increase the ability and accountability of individuals and institutions that are responsible for respecting, protecting and fulfilling these rights.

Globally, 85% of the world’s young people live in developing countries, where they often comprise a large portion of their communities. An increasing number of young people around the world are growing up in cities – especially in the fast-growing cities of sub-Saharan Africa, Asia and Latin America. In many cities across the African continent, more than 70 per cent of inhabitants are under the age of 30. Yet these young people have few resources available to improve their own living environment.

This is a major oversight as there are many youth-led initiatives in slums and squatter settlements in urgent need of financial support to develop their communities. UNHabitat embraces the belief that youth are a solution for sustainable urban development; the 21st session of the UN-Habitat Governing Council recognized this and proposed the fund with the objective to advance the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals and the Habitat Agenda.

28—Vanguard, TUESDAY, MARCH 3, 2015

By Theodore Opara

Hyundai unveils ‘Xtra Savings Offer’ for new Xcent H

YUNDAI Motors Nigeria Limited has introduced another affordably priced B-segment Xcent saloon car currently trending in its recently announced sales offer – “Hyundai Xtra Savings Festival” that promises free maintenance package, comprehensive insurance and registration within the first year of purchase.

The incentive aimed at appropriating initial costs of procuring some select Hyundai models including Xcent sedan will further help customers to appreciate the value of their investment during the first year of procurement, Mr. Jatin Nadkarni, Head of Sales and Marketing at Hyundai Motors Nigeria Limited assured.

Mr. Nadkarni is convinced Hyundai Xcent sedan will attract more customers and subsequently raise Hyundai market share in the B-segment grouping.

A 1.25Litre Kappa Dual VTVT capacity saloon car, the Xcent, according to Mr. Nadkarni is expected to compliment surging demand for a similar B-segment Hyundai Grand i10 model that was launched in November last year.

Spacious cabin He described Xcent as an elegantly designed and versatile new level of art and innovation car with comfortable and spacious cabin mated to a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission.

“We are delighted to introduce another B-segment car to cater for the growing need of budget customers who prefer affordably priced functional and reassuring saloon car for daily travels.”

The Hyundai Xcent can comfortably convey five passengers and it responds to every expectation including a generous trunk and alluring cabin colour, textures and a sport appeal that could easily make large car envious.

The Xcent is amazingly responsive and gets off to fantastic start without sacrificing the brilliant aerodynamic appeal that makes the car the best entry level sedan yet.

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Hyundai Xcent also shows a sharp styling with a whole new level of innovation that attest to the luminously crafted exterior which leaves an everlasting impression on all those who catch a glimpse of it.

The clear headlight clusters for instance, not only look good, they improve night vision and on-road visibility with extra safety just as the chrome-coated radiator grille is positioned to perfection and guarantees strong presence.

Drivers would appreciate the bucket type front seats and ergonomically designed rear seats and adjustable headrests and ample support that give the car a premium feel.

This is in addition to the liberal boot space that could accommodate your weekend luggage with bench folding function that provides an extra flat load space.

Hyundai Xcent bumper isn’t left out - it reduces forward air flow resistance while the rear spoiler effect enhances fuel economy and driving stability.

Hyundai does not compromise on safety especially when viewed against the structural safety that utilizes anti corrosive steel, ring structure application to enhance rigidity and body robustness.

The Xcent dual CVVT Kappa 1.25litre all-aluminum engine is quiet and smooth with exceptionally low weight materials to maximize fuel consumption.

A part of the Stallion

Group, Hyundai Motors Nigeria and custodian of the Korean brand says: Xcent would meet the needs of feet buyers look-

ing functional car for field marketers as well as young couples searching for a versatile and fashionably outstanding car.

Now available at Hyundai showrooms nationwide and at authorized dealership shops in Warri, Abakaliki and Lagos, the

Hyundai Xcent may yet be one of the most affordable cars with extraordinary features in its class, Mr. Nadkarni noted.

MoU with WesBank aimed at affordable Nigerian made vehicles — NAC

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HE Director General of the National Automotive Council Engr. Aminu Jalal has explained that the Memorandum of Understanding signed recently with WesBank of South Africa is aimed at making made in Nigeria cars affordable for the average Nigerian car user.

Top officials of the National Automotive Council (NAC) and WesBank of South Africa met in Abuja recently on the proposed roll-out of the made-in-Nigeria vehicle finance scheme scheduled for later this year.

According to the Director General of NAC, “the MoU agreement would allow WesBank to work closely with NAC to develop vehicle financing solutions specifically for those vehicles built in Nigeria with the aim of making them readily affordable for the average Nigerian car user."

Present at te meeting were the Director General, National Automotive Council, who headed the NAC

management team comprising Mr. Luqum Mamudu (Director Policy and Planning) and Engr.

Waheed Odetoro (Director Industrial Infrastructure) while the WesBank delegation comprised Mr. Eugene Ochse (Head of Africa Operations) and Mr. Simon Ingersent (designated CEO for Nigeria operations).

At the end of the

The MoU agreement would allow WesBank to work closely with NAC to develop vehicle financing solutions specifically for those vehicles built in Nigeria

meeting, the WesBank team also had interactive meetings with potential partners including selected vehicle dealers in Abuja to obtain first hand information and get acquainted with certain dealership practices peculiar to Nigeria. The NAC Scheme has been designed around a network of vehicle dealers and manufacturers distributors from whose floor the purchase process will begin.

It should be recalled that NAC signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with FirstRand Bank in Johannesburg, South Africa last October mandating WesBank to manage consumer vehicle financing for Nigerian assembled vehicles.

Engr. Aminu Jalal said, at the occasion, that the Nigerian government approved the Nigerian Automotive Industry Development Plan (NAIDP) to attract investments from vehicle manufacturers globally and grow the supply of locally-manufactured

vehicles.

Engr. Jalal added that the Vehicle Financing Scheme would make Nigerian assembled vehicles easily affordable on convenient payment terms spread over a period of about four years at affordable interest rate.

The scheme is also intended to assist vehicle assembly plants in Nigeria to gain high volume within a very short time so as to facilitate local c o m p o n e n t s development.

WesBank, a division of FirstRand Bank, is South Africa’s market leader in automotive asset finance.

The bank is already successfully represented in other African markets including Botswana, Lesotho, Namibia, M o z a m b i q u e , Swaziland, and Zambia.

This position has been achieved through successful partnerships with leading Original E q u i p m e n t Manufacturers (OEMs), offering finance to consumers for both locally-manufactured and imported models.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, MARCH 3, 2015—29

By Theodore Opara

Skoda Octavia is best compact car

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KODA Octavia chosen best compact among imported cars in ‘Best Cars 2015’ Germany. One after another: current ŠKODA Octavia has 44 awards to its name.

The third generation ŠKODA Octavia is going from strength to strength. The latest proof is receiving the award for the best imported car in the compact class in

Porsche shows two new high-performance cars for the first time

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ORSCHE AG is celebrating the world premiere of two extreme sports cars at this year’s Geneva International Motor Show.

The new Cayman GT4 is the first high-performance sports car belonging to the GT family that is based on the mid-engine coupes. Clocking a lap time of seven minutes and 40 seconds on the North Loop of the Nürburgring, the new entry-level model makes a great debut.

The second new model is another exceptional Porsche that sets new standards on the racetrack. The world premiere will take place during the Porsche press conference at the Palexpo Arena in Geneva at 11:30 (CET) today.

Manufacturer's commitment This vehicle confirms the sports car manufacturer ’s commitment to high performance sports cars that manage to make a very special link between everyday driving and motorsports.

These two premieres continue Porsche’s tradition of presenting motorsport highlights at the spring car show on the shores of Lake Geneva.

The 911 GT3, 918 Spyder and 919 Hybrid all celebrated their debuts in Geneva in recent years. With the new Cayman GT4, Porsche impressively maximised the driving dynamics of the mid-engine sports car and positions it as the new benchmark in its segment. This highperformance sports car

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clearly stands out from the other Cayman models: the 3.8-litre engine, which is derived from the 911 Carrera S, produces 385 hp (283 kW).

The completely new front end with lowered front spoiler and additional air outlet in front of the bonnet as well as the rear wing make it the only Cayman with downforce at both axles.

The chassis, which features a 30 mm lower body position and an extra-large brake system, is set up for motorsports with components

from the 911 GT3.

Porsche’s sales figures also continue to develop sportily. With about 16,000 vehicle deliveries to customers in January 2015, the sports car manufacturer continues its

success of the past year.

This corresponds to an increase of 31 per cent in comparison to the same month of the previous year. The 911 is in especially high demand internationally. More

than 2,400 happy customers took deliveries of the sports car icon in January. In 2014, Porsche delivered nearly 189,850 new vehicles to customers all over the world – an increase of 17 per cent over the previous year.

the readers’ choice ‘Best Cars 2015’ organised by the German car magazine ‘Auto Motor und Sport’ (AMS). Since its market launch in early 2013, the ŠKODA bestseller has won 44 national and international car awards so far.

The ŠKODA Octavia has also been a great hit on the international markets, with more than 500,000 of the third generation Octavia already having been delivered to customers around the world. In 2014 sales of the model increased 8.1% to 388,800. In Western Europe, sales grew by an incredible 22.5% in 2014.

Last year, the ŠKODA Octavia was thebestselling new car in the Czech Republic, Hungary, Finland, Poland, Slovakia, Croatia, BosniaHerzegovina and Iceland.

“The Octavia is very special to us at ŠKODA. We have put our heart and soul into developing this car. Wining this award from the ‘Auto, Motor und Sport’ readers is further proof that we’ve got a lot of things right,” explains ŠKODA CEO Prof. Dr. h.c. Winfried Vahland.

Kia Sportage comes top in J. D. ranking for small SUVs

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.D. Power 2015 Ve hicle Dependability Study (VDS) has ranked the Kia Sportage as the leader in the Small SUV category, marking the first-ever VDS award in

the brand’s history. The industry-wide study examines problems experienced during the past 12 months by original owners of three-year old vehicles (2012 model

year). Overall dependability is determined by the number of problems experienced per 100 vehicles (PP100). Thus, a lower score reflects a higher long-term quality

level. The Sportage ranked first in a field of seven contenders with a score of 129 PP100. This latest recognition for Sportage follows the model’s two consecutive J.D.

Power Initial Quality Survey (IQS) awards in 2013 and 2014.

“We believe the results of the J.D. Power Vehicle Dependability Study demonstrate Kia’s on-going commitment to quality and obsession with craftsmanship in building our world-class products,” said John Crowe, vice president, service & aftersale operations, Kia Motors America (KMA).

“The Sportage is a clear example of how far the entire Kia model line-up has progressed, and this kind of quality is tangible evidence of our longterm strategy to enhance the Kia ownership experience.”

VDS measures the long-term quality of vehicles, including new technologies and features currently available to buyers. It includes 32 nameplates and 228 models, covering 177 specific problem symptoms grouped into eight major vehicle categories.

30 —Vanguard, TUESDAY, MARCH 3, 2015

By Theodore Opara

World premiere at the 2015 Geneva Motor Show where speed meets creativity

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S the motoring world focuses on the Geneva Motor show starting today, Vanguard Motoring shares with you some of the most exciting designs at the show.

From European car makers to America and Asia, there has been awesome machines. The sport car segment has turned out to b e amazing with fast and frugal cars that keep you wondering where you will be heading to with such power.

Here are some good works of arts from renowned makers and designers.

Brabus Rocket 900

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Startech refinement enhances the Jaguar F-Type

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HE F-Type elevates the long tradition of sporty Jaguar models to a new level. The STARTECH REFINEMENT accessories program for the two-seater celebrates its world premiere at the 2015 Geneva Motor Show. The engineers and designers of STARTECH, a BRABUS Group company, have developed sporty-elegant carbon-fiber aerodynamicenhancement components for the bodywork, tailormade 21-inch wheels and attractive interior options.

The STARTECH REFINEMENT components and conversions are available for all coupe and roadster models of the Jag-

uar F-Type series.

Adding even more sporty emphasis to the dynamic lines of the two-seater with innovative bodywork components was a challenge the STARTECH designers mastered beautifully. All STARTECH aerodynamic-enhancement components for the F-Type are manufactured from clear-coated carbon fiber.

To make them not only ultralight, but also give them high strength, they are manufactured in an autoclave using the complex prepreg process, the same process used in motor racing and aerospace engineering. Ten layers of clear coat lend the STARTECH

components a fascinating 3D appearance.

The STARTECH REFINEMENT front component for the F-Type was designed to replace the lower section of the production bumper in its entirety.

It drops lower and forms an even more pronounced spoiler lip.

What’s more: on the sides the aerodynamic-enhancement component trails off into raised spoiler flaps, which not only give the sports car a generous helping of racing looks, but also further reduce lift on the front axle at high speeds.

HE new reference for high performance in the luxury class V12 with 662 kW / 900 hp, 1,500 Nm and a top speed in excess of 350 km/h BRABUS ROCKET 900 that is the new reference for high performance in the luxury class, which celebrates its world premiere at the 2015 Geneva Motor Show. BRABUS builds this super car based on the new Mercedes S 65.

At the heart of the luxury sedan is the BRABUS ROCKET 900 6.3 V12 Biturbo increased-displacement engine with a peak power output of 662 kW / 900 hp (887 bhp) and a peak torque of 1,500 Nm

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ple TV, which can be controlled with a custom-developed BRABUS Remote app.

The 12-cylinder engine of the S 65 is revised in every detail in the BRABUS engine shop, which is equipped with a stateof-the-art machine park.

The installation of a custom BRABUS billet crankshaft with longer stroke in concert with a larger cylinder bore, matching pistons and precisionbalanced custom billet connecting rods increases the displacement from 5.5 to 6.3 liters (336 to 384 cubic inches).

World’s fastest, most powerful all-wheel-drive coupe

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L-R: Mr. Godwin Umeaka, Group Finance Controller, Coscharis Group; Mr. Sunday Tanimowo, Training Manager, CG-Eko LLP; Mr. Abiona Babarinde, General Manager Marketing & Corporate Services, Coscharis Motors and Mr. Felix Mahan, Brand Manager (Ford), Coscharis Motors, during the presentation of a Ford Ecosport donated by Ford Motor Company to CG-Eko Training Centre in Lagos, recently.

(1,106 lb-ft).

The power unit in the bow shoots the four-door car from rest to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 3.7 seconds.

Top speed is in excess of 350 km/h (217 mph).

Visually the BRABUS super car impresses with a carbon-fiber aerodynamic-enhancement kit, BRABUS “PLATINUM EDITION” 21- or 22-inch wheels and an exquisite two-tone BRABUS fine leather interior.

The BRABUS “iBusiness” infotainment system for the BRABUS ROCKET 900 is based on state-of-the-art components from Apple such as the iPad mini, the Mac mini, iPod touch and Ap-

RABUS 850 6.0 Biturbo Coupe based on the Mercedes S 63 625 kW / 850 hp, 1,450 Nm of torque and 350km/h top speed The world’s fastest and most powerful all-wheel-drive coupe 625 kW / 850 horsepower, a peak torque of 1,450 Nm, 0 100 km/h (62 mph) in 3.5 seconds, and an electronically limited top speed of 350 km/h (217 mph): with the new BRABUS 850 6.0 Biturbo Coupe based on the Mercedes S 63 4MATIC, BRABUS cele-

brates the world debut of the fastest and most powerful all-wheel-drive coupe on the globe at the 2015 Geneva Motor Show. The two-door car is not only captivating on account of its unrivalled performance, but above all thanks to its sporty and elegant design with clear-coated carbon-fiber aerodynamic-enhancement components, 21inch high-tech forged wheels and an exclusive BRABUS fine leather interior.

The eight-cylinder

twin-turbo engine of the S 63 is thoroughly revised in the BRABUS engine shop using a state-of-the-art machine park. The installation of a special BRABUS crankshaft with longer stroke plus an enlarged cylinder bore and correspondingly larger forged pistons results in a displacement increase from 5,461 cc to 5,912 cc.

The flow-optimizing finemachining of both cylinder heads also contributes to the performance enhancement.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, MARCH 3, 2015—31

The future is ours

By Akinwunmi Ambode

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O the memories of our founding fathers and the visionary leadership of Alhaji Tafawa Balewa, February 17, 1966 remains a landmark date for all of us. It was the historic year in which our great school (Federal Government College, Warri) commenced admission of

AKINWUNMI AMBODE

young pupils, with a vision to nurture leaders that will make Nigeria great in future. Forty years after, the dream, like an oak tree, is coming to fruition. I was just eleven years old when I joined others like me to venture into the future by becoming students of FGCW. For the next seven years, my future was truly moulded by the ideals of unity school. Obviously, I’m proud to be a true Fegocolian – a true

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Nigerian!

The main objective of setting up unity schools, which is to raise young Nigerians who will uphold the unity of the country above all other considerations is being realised through each and everyone who passed through them. Let us get it right, we (unity school products) are totally a different breed from others. We are totally detribalised, tolerant in outlook, trained to accommodate others and their visions, irrespective of political, social, religious and ethnic dispositions. We are just what the future needs in Nigeria.

Since 1966, a lot of water has passed under the country’s bridge. There has been the good, the bad, the ugly and indeed, the beautiful. Just at the wake of this beautiful dream of unity schools in 1966, the country went through its most trying period with the outbreak of the Nigerian-Biafra civil war. The unfortunate incident, which claimed millions of lives, was an acid test, not only for our beloved country, but for the concept of unity schools, which was barely at its teething period. But thanks to God, Nigeria came out of the war, stronger and so also, the

unity school concept.

General Yakubu Gowon, whose post-war slogan was ‘No Victor, No Vanquished’, truly threw his weight behind the vision of our forefathers.

Under his administration, the country went head on, few months after the war, to aggressively resume the task of actualising the dream of uniting Nigeria through the concept of unity schools.

Brilliant young victims of the war were immediately sought and recruited into federal government colleges, fully kitted and generally equipped to resume their education alongside their mates. This bold and very magnanimous step, indeed set the actualisation of the unity school dream back in focus.

My dear alma mater, more than any other, benefitted immensely from this exercise.

Before and immediately after the war, the only three unity schools were located in Warri, Sokoto and Okposi. FGC Okposi, which later moved to Enugu, had earlier been shut down as a result of the devastating effect of the war. That meant that only FGCs Warri and Sokoto were in existence. It was only natural, therefore, that FGC Warri should play host (which it

did) to our fellow returnees from the war-torn Eastern region. It was very natural that most of them were moved to Warri, a much more neutral location, compared to Sokoto of 1970.

This singular move also made FGC Warri the richest in terms of the opportunity to share values and to interact with Nigerians from all parts of the country. It was also the neutral ground even for people from the North and West of the country. The young entrants from the East were indeed the very fortunate survivors of the devastation that coloured the war.

School dream

Gen. Gowon, must be commended for not just ensuring the reintegration of the young men, back into the Nigerian polity, but for taking the unity school dream further by mandating, during his administration, that each state, established at least, a unity school.

As we celebrate 40 years of pure academic excellence, of a vision, which still has the potential of returning the country to the track of prosperity, we are actually celebrating, more than anything else, the coming of age of the products of unity schools.

There is no doubt that the future of Nigeria is indeed ours. At this time, more than any other time in our history, there is that conscious awakening , that urge to share what we all have – love

of our nation, the patriotic spirit and of course, that untainted love of our fellow Nigerians , irrespective of where they come from.

It is true that in any gathering we find ourselves, products of FGC Warri are never occupied with parochial thoughts on where anyone comes from. We are always happy to be in our midst as fellow Nigerians and we are unbiased in our assessment of issues, irrespective of who is concerned. There is no gainsaying that this is truly what Nigeria needs at the moment.

Nigeria is in dire need of people who would appreciate its very abundant human resources, people who would appreciate the strength in its diversity, people to whom places of birth (a pure coincidence of which none of us actually had a choice) should be inconsequential in making national decisions, but at the same time, people, who as brothers and sisters, would naturally elect to aid weaker siblings to greater heights.

What the society lacks, which we, products of FGC Warri, and indeed, unity schools have in abundance, is love of one another.

A brother will not be there and see his siblings wallow in abject poverty. This is not true love.

•Ambode, who is the immediate past President of the Federal Government College Warri Old Students Association, FGCOSA, is also the Lagos State governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress.

32— V anguard, TUESDAY, MARCH 3, 2015

C-River community where residents still practise trade by barter PAGES 5

AGENDA EWEF/CROWEF return to PAGE 8

VOL. 1: NO. 39

Ugborodo with charity mission

TUESD AY, MAR CH 3, 20 15 TUESDA MARCH 201

10 YRS AFTER JTF BOMBARDMENT OVER JOHN TOGO

3,000 displaced from Ogodobiri community cry for help

Late John Togo (above); displaced indigenes of Ogodobiri and buildings destroyed during the invasion.

•Soldiers killed our people, forced us to bury them •Ghosts of the dead torment us •They destroyed our homes, built barracks for us

O

By Emma Amaize

GODOBIRI—MORE than a decade after soldiers of the Joint Task Force, JTF, on the Niger Delta, foxhunting ex-militant leader, “General” John Togo, now deceased, shelled Ogodobiri community in Bomadi Local Government Area of Delta State with 15 gun boats and jet fighter, the over 3,000 villagers, including women and children, rendered homeless in the 2004 military bombardment are still homeless.

They have sent an SOS to the Federal Government to resettle them, saying they have lived the last 10 years, wandering C M Y K

from place to place with no roof over their heads and without means of livelihood.

Ogodobiri is the maternal home of Togo, who hails from Ayokoromo community in Burutu Local Government Area of the state. He was said to have escaped to Ogodobiri in the heat of the hunt for him.

The JTF trailed him to the settlement on June 11, 2004, but he and his boys resisted arrest and shot one of the soldiers, which infuriated the army. The result was the invasion of the community.

The soldiers were in the community for two days, June 11 to 13, and

Ogodobiri was reduced to rubble.

Ayakoromo suffered the same fate six years later, precisely December, 2010, when Togo repudiated amnesty after accepting it in 2009. But somehow, both the Federal and state governments made half-hearted efforts to rebuild the town.

However, Ayakoromo is far from being rebuilt.

Why Ogodobiri did not enjoy the same treatment remained a puzzle. Both communities have raised dust over their predicaments.

The activist and branch chairman of Ogodobiri community in Warri, Mr. Felix Okpe, in a petition to the Chairman,

National Human Rights Commission, NHRC, said: “I am writing to remind you of the sufferings of the people of Ogodobiri community in Bomadi council of Delta State.

“Since the destruction of this community, we have been abandoned by the three tiers of government — federal, state and local.”

No relief material till date

Okpe, himself, one of the 3,000 affected Ogodobiri people, said: “We have been living without shelter in neighbouring communities, states, cities and villages since 2004. The government ignored all our pleas, no relief material was sent to the victims till date. I am a victim of the circumstances, as I cannot return home since the bombardment.

“It all started June 11, 2004 when the Nigerian military Joint Task Force, JTF, came to the community on that blessed morning with 15 gun boats and a jet

Continues on Page 7

2—Niger Delta Voice, TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2015

Villagers urge Akpabio to asphalt Atan Ofot roads AKWA IBOM...

LAND OF PROMISE

By Chioma Onuegbu

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TAN OFFOT— RESIDENTS of Atan Offot community, Uyo Local Government Area, Akwa Ibom State, have commended the state governor, Obong Godswill Akpabio, for commencing the grading of dilapidated roads in the area, but they urged him to tar the roads and construct culverts to prevent flooding.

Bulldozers went to work on the long-abandoned roads, which cut-off the community from its neighbouring towns and connecting streets, including Aka-Atam, Udokang, Aka-Etinam and Udoekong Ekwere, directly behind the state secretariat of the People’s Democratic Party, PDP, in the state, last Wednesday.

Niger Delta Voice bared the bad roads, last July The governor had following a report on the ramshackle condition of the roads by Niger Delta Voice, July, 2014, promised at the foundation laying ceremony of the PDP secretariat, located in the community, that the roads would be constructed to a befitting standard as a reward to the people for donating their land to the party.

Speaking to Niger Delta Voice, the head of the community, Etteidung David Udoh, said, “My people are happy over the grading of the roads. If you had visited this community last two months you will agree with me that something good is happening here.

“We specially appreciate the governor for keeping to his promise that he will do all the roads when the dry season comes.

For me, road has always been a major problem of this community.”

Why we want the roads tarred He said: “We are, however, appealing that the roads should also be tarred because we are not comfortable with just grading the roads.

“I am saying this because only one heavy rain is going to wash it off again and take us back to where we used to be. And you know the rains will soon be here again.”

Udoh, who expressed relief that the persistent efforts of the community to draw attention to the bad roads were not in futility extolled the Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Prince Enobong Uwah, for his input.

Other residents stressed the need for the road to be tarred to tackle the perennial flood in the area; saying not tarring it is as good as not grading it because rain will wash it away.

A Keke NAPEP operator living C M Y K

Udoekong Ekwere Street after last Wednesday's rainfall.

Aka Atam road. at Udoekong Ekwere Street, Sampson Eteudoh, said “We are happy because before now the entire roads in this community used to be very rough, such that even pedestrians find it difficult to walk on the road, especially during rainy season.”

“You will hardly see any Keke coming or going out of this area and those of us living in this community know it used to be

hell. But now, we are enjoying the roads and you can see so many vehicles plying the roads. I sincerely appreciate the effort of our community leaders for making sure that government finally responded to our plight.”

Akpabio won’t disappoint - Alfred Atan Offot youth president, Mr. Idongesit Alfred, also

congratulated Uwah for his role towards grading of the roads, even as he expressed the hope that Governor Akpabio would keep to his promise of constructing the roads to standard.

His words: ”Our dear governor is well known as a promise keeper, which gives me hope that the tarring of our roads will soon commence.

“Also my confidence stem from the fact that since the party has commenced work on its secretariat, it will ensure that the roads leading to its secretariat are in good shape too.

“The whole of Atan Offot community is for PDP and that is why we willingly gave our land to them to build its secretariat, so I believe that even if this outgoing government is unable to finish our roads, the incoming government will automatically continue from where the outgoing government shall stop.

“And that is why as the youth leader, I am calling on our people to support government of

Vote wisely, Nwaonicha begs Deltans

By Theresa Ugbobu

A

GBOR—A People’s Democratic Party, PDP, leader in Ika South Local Government Area, Delta State, Elder Chukwuma Nwaonicha has enjoined the electorate in the state to vote wisely in the general elections, saying their votes mean a lot to their future and that of the coming generation.

“I advise and appeal to the voters to devoid from mortgaging their future, the future of their families, the future of their

communities, the future of their local governments and the future of Deltans by making their votes a mercantile affair,” he told Niger Delta Voice in an interview at Agbor.

His words: “I beg the voters not to sell their votes for rice or recharge card. Deltans should cast their votes wisely and should not be enticed by ephemeral gifts.

“The moment you sell your vote in exchange for rice, cash or recharge cards, you have automatically received your

education, good roads, stable power and empowerment.

Nwaonicha said: “The voting of a governor that reflects the wishes of Deltans through the voters at the general election shall surely guarantee good governance.

“This will obviously produce good leadership under a visionary leader, who understands when and how to pursue and actualize such a vision through the formulation of

Continues on Page 3

continuity.”

Govt’ll tar roads— Ewah Commissioner Ewah, who spoke through his media envoy, Mr. Osondu Ahirika, said, “You recall that when the PDP laid the foundation stone of its secretariat, the governor commended the community for being a kind and peaceful host, not only to the party, but so many government establishments in the state.

“And as we speak, tenders have been made for the award of the roads contract. And we are following due process. When everything is done the tarring will commence.

“If the roads are not completed now, the incoming government will ensure it is completed.

“And that is the more reason the community must support and vote the PDP to win the election because the opposition will not want to continue with a project that belongs to PDP.”

THE TEAM Emma Amaize, Editor Jimitota Onoyume Samuel Oyadongha Simon Ebegbulem Gabriel Enogholase Festus Ahon Egufe Yafugborhi Emmanuel Una Akpokona Omafuaire Godwin Oghre Tom Moses Chioma Onuegbu Ike Uche Davies Iheamnachor Emem Idio Brisibe Perez Barnabas Uzosike Nath Onajoke Chijioke Nwankpa Theresa Ugbobu

Niger Delta Voice, TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2015—3

Bayelsa communities back in business, as FERMA reconstructs Edepie-Imiringi Road, Bridge BA YELS A ...

BAYELS YELSA THE GLORY OF ALL LANDS

By Samuel Oyadongha

Y

ENAGOA—AFTER several months of agonizing wait, succor has finally come the way of motorists plying the dilapidated Edepie-Imiringi road in Bayelsa State, as the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency, FERMA, has completed the rehabilitation of the failed road and reconstructed the collapsed bridge.

The road was shut to traffic at the wake of the collapse of the Link Bridge but was completely washed away by rampaging flood in 2012.

It is the quickest route to President Goodluck Jonathan’s Otuoke hometown in Ogbia local government area of the state for commuters coming from the university town of Amassoma in Southern Ijaw local government area and communities in the GbarainEkpetiama axis of the state, which was completely washed off by the 2012 flood that ravaged the nation.

Though, the road had shown signs of decay prior to the 2012 flood due to many years of neglect, before it was completely washed away, the intervention of the federal government has restored normalcy on the route.

Palm wine, pepper soup sellers back to business The once rickety makeshift wooden bridge has given way to a magnificent bridge built by Niger Construction Company Limited, while palm wine sellers and pepper soup joint operators, along the route, who were forced to relocate when the route was shut to traffic, have since returned to their lucrative trade.

Niger Delta Voice, which was the first to go to town on the deplorable state of the road and the harrowing experience of commuters, has kept monitoring the progress of work on the road since Niger Construction Nigeria Ltd, popularly known as Niger Cat, deployed to site.

In our June 3 edition, we highlighted the deplorable condition of the central route, which also host some oil and gas facilities in the state.

The road was completed some weeks ago, while expansion work on the shoulder is ongoing at the C M Y K

Edepie end. The project it was learned is an emergency replacement of the collapsed bridge and caters for the 1 km approach on either side on Edepie-Imiringi-Otuasega road and link road on MbiamaYenagoa.

A FERMA official, who spoke anonymously, said government intervention was to mitigate the suffering of commuters and due to the strategic importance of the route to the nation oil industry.

Our correspondent, who

visited the road, weekend, observed that in the place of the makeshift wooden bridge that was erected after the bridge collapsed by some youths to eke out a living, now stood a concrete bridge.

Some motorists, who spoke to Niger Delta Voice , lauded FERMA’s intervention and the construction firm Niger Cat for the speedy completion of the bridge.

“We must commend the federal government through FERMA for giving the road a

facelift. It would have been a national shame if nothing was done to rehabilitate this all important road which leads to Ogbia council area, where oil was first discovered in commercial quantity.

“Though the road is not wide as we would have loved, commuting between Ogbia and Yenagoa will now be easier and faster for us as against going through the long Opolo and Azikoro road,” said Oladele, a commercial driver.

In the words of another, “This is a big relief for those of us shuttling Imiringi and Yenagoa. Kudos to the government, we have been waiting for over the years.

The construction firm did a yeoman’s job.”

A palm- wine dealer on the route, Bassey Inno, told Niger Delta Voice , “The worst is over, we are grateful to the government for ensuring the timely completion of the road. Business has again picked up since the road was reopened to traffic.”

BEFORE AND AFTER: Edepie-Imiringi road.

Bayelsa has world's most polluted environment —COMMISSIONER waiting to happen if something pollution and the criminal acurgent is not done, said, “The tivities of oil production.

BA YELS A ...

BAYELS YELSA THE GLORY OF ALL LANDS

By Samuel Oyadongha & Emem Idio

Y

ENAGOA—BAYELSA State Commissioner for Environment, Mr. Iniruo Wills, has raised the alarm over the great level of damage being unleashed on the crumbly environment of the state by oil multinationals, saying the state was the most contaminated in the world.

Wills, at a sensitization workshop for oil communities on combating the impact of illegal oil bunkering and artisan refining on the environment, organized by the state Ministry of Environment in collaboration with the Bayelsa State NonGovernmental Forum, BANGOF, bemoaned that the lush vegetation and marine environment, which the existence of the people revolve around, were progressively fading like flowers because of oil exploration and exploitation activities.

Bayelsa worse than Ogoni Lamenting the sad turn of

event in the state, the third largest wetland in the world, the commissioner said: “Most oil and gas pollution in the world occur in Bayelsa State.

“It has been established by the National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency, NOSDRA, that as bad as the Ogoni situation was, the Bayelsa experience is more frequent and worse than that of Ogoni land.”

Research findings indicated that the rate of oil spill in the state was more devastating than that of Ogoni in Rivers State, which had been widely reported, he added.

The state records about 40 spill cases in a month, it was reliably learned.

The commissioner, who expressed fear that a national disaster of the highest scale is

region is sitting on a keg of gun powder.”

Also bewailing the level of damage that has been done to the environment by oil thieves, Wills challenged the communities to work together with security agencies and other stakeholders to stem the ugly trend.

He said it was surprising that NOSDRA does not have an office in the state and called for aggressive enlightenment on the dangers of pipeline vandalism and joint surveillance of remediation sites after pollutions to ensure the cleanup exercise were properly conducted by affected oil companies.

He stressed the need for experts to be proactive in separating the incident of equipment failure that result in

In his remarks, chairman of BANGOF, Mr. Torki Dauseye, described the Niger Delta environment as the most polluted region in the world due to oil exploration and exploitation activities of multinational companies.

Dauseye noted that in recent times, the activities of Niger Delta youths involved in pipeline vandalism, illegal bunkering and artisan refining portend serious implications to both the environment and the human lives.

He said the need to sensitize stakeholders on the dangers of pipeline vandalism and artisan refining to the health of the citizens and the environment of the oil communities in Bayelsa State informed the sensitization workshop.

Vote wisely, Nwaonicha begs Deltans Continues on Page 3 good policies that would benefit the entire Deltans. ”The governorship election should be carried out in transparent manner to reflect the wishes and aspiration of Deltans. It should serve as a means for collective and good leadership for the people.

“For Delta state to develop socially and economically, the state must take the bull by the horn by bestowing their mandate on a governor with a sound/ quality leadership style,” he said.

Nwaonicha said he found the PDP governorship candidate, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, as a man with good leadership credential, adding, “I pray that the Senator

should be voted as the next governor in order to achieve social and economic developments in the state.

“The challenges of peace in the state, poverty reduction, job creation for our graduates and infrastructural development among other issues are some of the Senator’s top priorities,” he added.

4—Niger Delta Voice, TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2015

WHILE MEN SLEPT: Lives, houses, speed boats, canoes lost as erosion ravages Toru-Angiama by sand-filling our waterfront.”

Started before I was born—FUNAKPO Chairman, Town Planning/ Project Committee of the community, Mr. Bakpor Funakpo, said: “Ever since I was born, I have been experiencing this thing and we have appealed to the government severally, the council, and our representatives to make the government hear our voice and come and help us to solve this problem.”

DELTA...

FINGER OF GOD

By Ochuko Akuopha

T

ORU-ANGIAMA— EROSION is slowly washing away Toru-Angiama, a coastal community in Patani Local Government Area, Delta State.

Chairman of the Community Development Committee, CDC, of the community, Mr. Hitler Ekiokeyi, told Niger Delta Voice, “Erosion, day by day is ravaging the community.”

Lamenting that the people had been facing the challenge for decades, the community leader said, “Over one and half kilometres have been washed away by erosion, so it has been a long time problem.

“Lives have been lost, houses have been washed away, canoes and speed boats have been lost.

“People would be sleeping and unaware that their houses were being ravaged by the erosion. The last occurrence was in August, last year, I even videoed it and sent the tapes to Senator James Manager, who is representing us in the Senate.

We lost two lives that time.

Last year was very terrible, we are farmers and at the time, people came to the river, they were tying their boats at the waterside when erosion covered them,” he said.

Colossal loss He asserted: “It was a monumental loss to the community and the people are still suffering from that pain, so we are calling on the government to come and remedy the situation by sandfilling or pilling the place. Since that time government has not done anything about it.

“One of the causes of the erosion is that when the rainy season comes the high current of the river flow forces wearing away and secondly, the waterways in the community like little canal flow back to the river and in that case, it causes erosion.

“There is no proper drainage system that will direct the water elsewhere. So we also need good drainage system.”

Appeal to FG, Delta govt Continuing, he said: “What we want Delta State and Federal Governments to do for us is to sand-fill or pile the water front. One of our biggest challenges is accessibility. Now there is a road coming down from Patani under construction

by NDDC. “We want to appreciate the efforts of

C M Y K

Erosion-ravaged Toru-Angiama water front.

President Goodluck Jonathan for endorsing the project. We

want to ask that they complete the road and listen to our plight

Yearly ritual “The problem has affected us greatly, washing away our land as well as many buildings.

Some of the canoes and boats which we use to go to farm have been destroyed. In March and April, every year, we experience this erosion and it happens sometimes at night; when erosion comes, it consumes large portions of our land. ”In one particular year, many children and women were washing their cloths at the waterside when this thing came, but fortunately, it was God that spared their lives.

“Last year, some persons lost their lives as a result of erosion, some canoes, boats and crops that were harvested from the farm were lost,” he said.

One of the villagers, Mr. Oguoko Ebitukemi, who also spoke with Niger Delta

Voice, said the menace had been there for a very long time, describing it an ecological problem.

Nothing has been done Ebitukemi said: “Before I was born, this problem has been there and before this time, our fathers have been crying to the government and up till now, nothing has been done.

“Last year, I am aware that our CDC Chairman took a video coverage of the erosion, sent a copy to the member representing Patani constituency at the Delta State House of Assembly, Hon Basil Ganagana.

“He also sent a copy to Senator James Manager, but the problem remains the same; nothing has been done. We are still calling on the government to come and tackle this problem for us; it is a big problem.”

His words, “It is God that has been helping us. Many houses have crumbled, so we are just living by the grace of God. During rainy season, we have bigger problems.

“During the dry season, we find it very difficult to get water because our source of water is just the river. So how can an old woman of about 70 years to go to the river?

“We produce the oil, which is the source of the wealth of the country, but have nothing to show for it.”

NDDC trains 350 youths in Port Harcourt RIVERS… THE TREASURE BASE OF THE NATION

By Jimitota Onoyume

P

ORT HARCOURT— MANAGING Director, Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, Mr. Bassey Dan-Abia has charged 350 beneficiaries of the commission’s Retail Empowerment App Programme, REAP, to utilize the opportunity created by the programme to better their lots.

Declaring open the training session in Port Harcourt, Dan Abia, who was represented by the Executive Director, Projects, Mr Tuoyo Omatsuli, said the commission was determined to tackle challenges of poverty in the region.

According to him, “The Retail Empowerment App Programme is aimed at creating entrepreneurs using technology. It is a unique programme designed to make many youths become successful entrepreneurs.”

Directors of Credit Switch, the

technical partner of the NDDC on the project, Nnamdi Nwoye, Tayo Adigun and Tunde Renner in their separate comments, said beneficiaries

would be trained on how to recharge phones via mobile devices and laptops.

They said at the end of the training, each of the benefici-

aries would get starter packs, including phone loaded with free N50, 000 airtime, generating set to power the phone, power bank, table, chair and umbrella.

Land row splits Rivers’ monarch, family members

By Davies Iheamnachor

O

ZUOBA—A NOISY disagreement over sharing of land has broken out between the paramount ruler of Akpor Kingdom, Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, Rivers State, HRM, Eze Anele Oriebe, Nyewe Ali Akpor, and members of his Rumuadobo family in Ozuoba community.

Niger Delta Voice gathered that there has been internal wrangling in the Rumuadobo family, which interrupted the peace of the community on some occasions in the past.

HRM Oriebe accused a member of the family, Mr. Pius Orlu Wuchendu, of spearheading a campaign of calumny against him, saying that he alleged in the media that he (monarch) was blackmailing, hiring thugs to intimidate

family members and demolishing the properties of those opposed to him.

Describing the allegations as untrue, the Nyewe Ali Akpor noted that in spite of the dispute over the land, Wuchendu and his group had been selling the family land and vowed to work against him since he ascended the throne of Akpor kingdom.

He called on security agencies to intervene, saying his life has been in danger since last year over the clash.

But, the eldest member of the Rumuadobo family, who doubles as the second-incommand in the kingdom, Chief Robinson Chukwu Mbata, and other members of the family, took exception to the statement of the paramount ruler, saying he was maltreating others with his position.

He said it was not true that there was heated discussion over the land, pointing out that sharing of the land was a decision of the family, and is supposed not to come from an individual, irrespective of his position.

Urging the monarch to concentrate on the Akpor stool and not Rumuadobo family matter, where he remains a youth, Chukwu asserted: “Eze Anele Oriebe is not the oldest person in his family, he is just a youth.”

Chairman of the family ’s land sharing committee, Mr Pius Orlu Wuchendu, said his committee was duly constituted by the family and has not been dissolved, adding that the Nyewe Ali Akpor was using his prestigious office to intimidate family members.

Niger Delta Voice, TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2015—5

to our children.”

Not a slave market The clan head debunked the wide spread belief by many that slaves were also sold at Esuk Mba, saying that the place was indeed a port of yesteryears, but not a slave port like the Marina in Calabar.

“We only traded on goods and not human beings, there was nothing like that in this place, even when some foreigners came, the only thing we did was to give them things they do not have and collected what they came with. At no time did we sell human beings here,” he added.

ESUK MBA: C-River community where residents still practise trade by barter

By Ike Uchechukwu

E

SUK MBA—TRADE by barter, which is a system of exchange by which goods or service are directly exchanged for other goods or services without using a medium of exchange like currency (money) may have become extinct in some parts of the world, but at Esuk Mba clan, Edem Odo ward, Akpabuyo Local Government Area, Cross River State, it is alive and kicking.

Niger Delta Voice visited the community located very close to Calabar, the state capital, and found out that Esuk Mba market, also known as the “home of trade by barter”, opens every Saturday for swapping activities.

I grew up to meet the trade— CLAN HEAD Speaking with Niger Delta Voice, the clan head of Esuk Mba, Chief Effiom Ikanda said he grew up to meet his father and grandfather, as well as other people of the area practising trade by barter According to the ruler, “Back in those days, it was an everyday market unlike now that we decided to restrict it to only Saturday of the week.

“You could get a lot of things in exchange then than now because the means of exchange has really changed.”

His words: “The market used to open three times a week before, now we looked at the level of patronage and discovered that people from other places (riverine communities) come only once a week so we decided to make it once every week which is every Saturday.”

Changes Chief Ikanda asserted: C M Y K

“Currently, one can exchange gari for fish or crayfish as well as periwinkles and viceversa, you can even use cassava in exchange for fish, but back then it was a lot higher, items like gin and clothes could be exchanged; wares like home accessories could be exchanged for edible items and many others.

“My father told me that the

practice started even before white people started coming to our place, because there was no other means of exchange like money and it has been in existence since that time.”

It won’t stop, not in my tenure Chief Ikanda, however, pointed out the villagers use money as a means of exchange

for some items like clothes, goats, meats and so on like other Nigerians, but for the primary items like cassava, gari, fish, crayfish and periwinkles, they still retain the barter system.

He said:” The practice will never stop as my fathers and fore fathers passed it on to me, it would not stop in my time, we will continue to pass it on

Control Niger Delta Voice findings showed the market used to be under the control of the community, but the local government council had taken over revenue collection.

Ikanda said: “So before you do business, there you pay a token to the local government and the new block you saw in the place was built by local government during Mma Josephine’s administration.”

The clan head, however, appealed to government at both the federal and state levels to help develop the market into a modern one by constructing modern stores and shades for the traders, who do buying and selling in the location every Saturday.

Our communities are not dangerous— KOKORI, AMAGBA RESIDENTS

By Emma Amaize & Simon Ebegbulem

A

MAGBA—SOME residents of Kokori in Agbon Kingdom, Ethiope-East Local Government Area, Delta State and Amagba, Oredo Local Government Area, Edo State, have denied the report that the communities were among the 10 most dangerous towns in the South-South region.

A leader of Kokori community, who called our reporter on phone, said the image of the community painted in our last edition was an old and false one, as the community has since transformed to a safe haven in the state.

He accused the reporter of collecting bribe to write rubbish about the community, home of kidnap kingpin, Kelvin Oniarah, who terrorized the state and the nation before he was nabbed by security agents, September 2013. He is currently undergoing trial.

Another Kokori indigene who said insecurity has become a thing of the past in the community, explained, “There is a new lease of life in Kokori since the new chairman of the local government, Hon. Faith

Majemite, assumed office. She is winning the war against criminality in the area and there is proper patrol of the local government now by the various security agents.”

Fastest growing community in Edo Amagba community leader and Edo state representative on the Board of the Niger-Delta Development Commission, NDDC, Mr. Matthew Iduoriyekemwen, also said, “Amagba community is the fastest growing community in this state.

“They are peace-loving people; this is one community where you can walk freely at any time without anybody being scared of being harassed because; it is a community where everybody takes the issue of security seriously.

“This allegation that land speculators sell a particular land to more than one person is not true because with the kind of development in that area, people would not have been buying lands to build in that area if there is any form of scam.

“Amagba transformed from a complete rural community into a modern urban city. People

Matthew Iduoriyekemwen. who are trying to attribute cultism to that community are people who just want to destroy the name of the community due to their selfish interest,” the former Speaker of Edo state House of Assembly added.

Not at war with anybody His words, “ As at today, the community is at peace with almost all its neighbours except a few elements, who having encroached in the community land before now, still look for ways because they have people backing them somewhere, to make life

unbearable for the community. But again, they cannot come in because the community is united in the fight against external aggression and oppression and any form of incursion.

“Amagba is not at war with anybody, so they have no need to stockpile arms.

“Even when the oil company workers come there to do their seismic work, unlike other communities in the Niger Delta where they will hold them hostage and ask for compensation, they do their work peacefully and leave.”

6—Niger Delta Voice, TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2015

CRISIS LOOMS OVER MURDER OF OTERI COMMUNITY LEADER:

Family, Ughelli vigilante, police trade blames DELTA...

FINGER OF GOD

By Perez Brisibe

U

G H E L L I — CONTROVERSY is trailing the February 3 killing of the Vice Chairman of Oteri community in Ughelli North Local Government Area of Delta State, Mr. Blessing Unuesefe.

The family of the deceased represented by the Centre for the Vulnerable and the Underprivileged, CENTREP, a Warri-based human rights group on one side, the Delta State Command of the Nigeria Police Force, NPF, and the Ughelli Vigilante are currently singing jumpy tunes on the circumstances that led to the death.

Family alleges foul play Alleging foul play and demanding for release of the remains of the late Unuesefe, the family in a petition to the Inspector General of Police, Mr. Abba Suleiman, on what it termed ‘extrajudicial’ killing, said a member of the Ughelli Vigilante outfit, nicknamed Bakassi, labelled the deceased as an armed robber and ordered him shot because he refused to comply with his directive to sit on the ground after they demanded to meet with him on the spate of killings within Ughelli and environs.

Executive director of CENTREP, Mr. Oghenejabor Ikimi, who signed the petition, called for a probe into the incident.

He was killed in a shootout —UGHELLI BAKASSI However, a senior member of the Ughelli Vigilante outfit confided in Niger Delta Voice that the deceased had been on the wanted list of security agents in the area and was purportedly operating under the guise of the community executive.

According to the vigilante member, “The victim was shot in a shootout and was killed while he was trying to run.”

He was a cultist—POLICE Confirming the report when contacted, the State Police PRO, DSP Celestina Kalu told this reporter that she is yet to get the facts of the matter but said, “The deceased was a cultist who was involved in a shootout.”

CENTREP disagrees In a swift reaction to the statement of DSP Kalu, CENTREP described the avowal as an afterthought,

C M Y K

saying, “It is an attempt by the Police Command to shield the culprits, who are murder suspects.”

Posers The group questioned how the command came to the conclusion that the deceased was a cultist when no investigation had been conducted by the command till date?

“Why did the police refuse to take statements from Madam Edith Unuesefe, an elder sister of the deceased, including residents and eyewitnesses that came to the Ughelli Police Station to lodge complaint after the incident? CENTREP questioned.

“Oteri community is a small but a densely populated community- could there have been a shootout in the said community on the day of the incident where the deceased was murdered without the knowledge of residents?

“Did the command take statements from the chairman, elders and members of Oteri community to ascertain whether there was a shootout in the said community on the day the deceased was murdered?

“Was the alleged shootout between the deceased and the police or members of the Ughelli Vigilante group or both and why has the command failed to come to the community to take statements from residents and eyewitnesses of the above incidents or publish the alleged cult activities of the deceased within the said community till date?”

CENTREP further asked.

It’s leadership tussleCommunity leader Meanwhile, the president of Oteri community, Mr. Uteme Bateren, has attributed the death of his former deputy to a blanketed leadership tussle over who emerges as the next chairman for the community.

Speaking to Niger Delta Voice, Mr. Bateren said that the community does not harbour criminals, hinting that the late Unuesefe was a stumbling block to the chairmanship ambition of a member of the vigilante in the community, who led the team that slaughtered him.

According to him, “the way and manner Unuesefe was killed give room for series of unanswered questions. Earlier, Bakassi accused the deceased of being the brain behind the killing of an Ughelli-based businessman known as Mr. Michael Onajiyovwi, alias Onamike.

“Now, they are claiming he

Late Blessing Unuesefe. was killed in a cult-related shootout.

“There is no way there would be a shootout in the community that people around would not hear just the way persons around heard the shots that killed the late Unuesefe.

“Though, I cannot really tell if Bakassi had a personal grudge with him, but what I know is that there is more than meets the eyes in this matter because a day after the incident, the same Bakassi stormed Oteri community shooting sporadically, an act that resulted in lots of persons sustaining various degrees of injuries.”

Oteri community threatens…

Bateren said: “I and other members of the community executive have lodged a complaint at the Ughelli Police Station that if this indiscriminate shooting in the community by the vigilante continues, we would not tolerate it.

“If they are craving for a communal clash between Oteri and their (Bakassi team) of respective communities, we would not hesitate to give it to them because we are not the laziest of all communities in Ughelli kingdom, as we would fight them to the last point.

“As a community, we have a president general, PG, who we expect would take action on the matter soon, but if he fails to do so, the youth executive of the community would hold him liable for the death of Unuesefe.

“All I can say is that three members of the Ughelli Vigilante outfit are the brains behind the killing and at the appropriate time, they would face the law.”

BRIEFLY Stories by Emma Amaize

Okwuofu mobilizes for Okowa, others

A

SABA—THE Delta State PDP Campaign Director of Mobilization, Chief Nkem Okwuofu, has called on the people of Delta North (Anioma) senatorial district of the state to vote for the party’s governorship candidate, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, senatorial candidate, Chief Peter Nwaoboshi, and other standard bearers of the party in the March 28 and April 11 elections.

Okwuofu, who spoke in an interactive session with journalists in Asaba, said it would be wrong political judgment for Anioma people not to vote for the party’s candidates and admonished youths from the district not to mortgage their future on the altar of pecuniary rewards from desperate politicians seeking political power at all cost.

She described Chief Nwaoboshi as a square peg in a square hole, who is not only a defender of the cause of the common man, but a tested and dependable grassroots politician determined to turn every opportunity to the greatest advantage of the Anioma nation and state if elected.

Okwuofu noted with satisfaction that within the over seven years Chief Nwaoboshi was on the saddle as the state party chairman, he cooperated with both the executive and legislative arms of government in building a stable, result-oriented, disciplined and cohesive party structure capable of securing electoral victory for the PDP in every electoral contest.

Youths endorse Jonathan

W

ARRI—YOUTHS from the South undergoing Federal Government sponsorship in universities across the country and overseas have voted for the re-election of President Gooduck Jonathan.

The students in a statement by Mike Itima and others, said, “We, the students under federal government sponsorship from the southern part of Nigeria hereby endorse Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan for re-election as the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

“We are endorsing him because he has empowered the youths by giving them scholarship, both youths from Northern and Southern parts of the country.

“Some youths are in expensive universities, including Igbinedion University, Okada, Benson Idahosa University, Lead City University, and Covenant University in Nigeria while some are undergoing studies abroad in Philippines. Malaysia, Dubai, USA and UK.” The youths added: “The Jonathan government has built 12 federal universities across the country, no president has empowered youths the way the president has done.”

Niger Delta Voice, TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2015—7

10 YRS AFTER JTF BOMBARDMENT OVER JOHN TOGO 3,000 displaced from Ogodobiri community cry for help

Building razed by JTF at Ogodobiri.

Continues from Page 1 fighter to arrest a militant leader called John Togo and his gang.

“Unfortunately, John Togo and his gang resisted arrest and in the process shot a soldier and retreated to engage the soldiers in a battle.”

Compelled to bury the dead

“The soldiers descended on them, killing both young and old. The jet fighter bombarded the entire community while the soldiers continued their destruction from June 11 to 13, till they were stopped by the governor (James Ibori, former governor of Delta state).

“That year, after the killing, the soldiers forced the remaining indigenes of the community to bury the decomposed remains of the dead relatives the soldiers killed.

“It is over a decade now, yet the Federal Government is not planning to rebuild the community and relocate the internally-displaced persons, who are still suffering in neighbouring communities, states, cities and villages.

“The Federal Government has rebuilt all the communities that suffered from JTF bombardment in the Niger Delta region, such as Odi, Okerenkoko, Ayakoromo, and so on.

“Why is Ogodobiri case different? Why are the federal and the state governments forgetting the predicament of the people of Ogodobiri? Are we not citizens of Nigeria?

“I am pleading with the Federal and state governments to please come to the aid of the people of Ogodobiri by rehabilitating them.”

Ayokoromo, yet to recover

While Ogodobiri is lamenting its woes, Ayokoromo was brought to rubble in a similar fashion in 2010 when the late Togo rejected amnesty and vowed to fight on, the community has not recovered C M Y K

from the attack, more than four years after.

Niger Delta Voice learned that Ayakoromo, which was enjoying electricity from the national grid before the military invasion, had been in darkness since then as the power supply system was affected.

The Federal Government ordered that the damaged houses be rebuilt, as it was apparent soldiers went beyond their mandate, while the governor, Dr. Emmanuel Udaughan, released N50 million for rehabilitation of displaced victims.

But the community has an axe to grind with the military.

They commended Uduaghan, but said his N50 million was just a drop in the ocean.

Angry ghosts

Community chairman, Mr. Mieyeseigha Okpe, said the military was selective during the rebuilding process and deliberately ignored affected houses, adding that the lives of the people have been seriously affected since then.

He said soldiers massacred villagers and ordered survivors to bury the remains in a mass grave, which is a taboo in Ayakoromo, and that presently, the ghosts of the deceased persons were troubling the living.

The community leader said without a befitting burial, the ghosts of the departed will continue to trouble the people and so, “we are working round the clock for a befitting burial for them.”

He called on government to compensate the villagers for the property destroyed, speed up repairs of the vandalized PHCN facilities, and complete the construction of the outstanding affected houses and individual losses.

Victims, including Joseph Ela Yereke, Asaiyei Enaibo, Ebi Wayas, Ogbu Demian and Konboye Azebiri, who spoke to Niger Delta Voice, said they saw hell during the bom-

bardment.

I lost all my savings—YEREKE Ela Yereke asserted: “I lost all my life savings. I was in Lagos when I was told about the military invasion. When I came, I was surprised to see all my property gutted by fire. Till date, I am still unable to recover my losses.

“Things are very rough with us as there were no aids coming from any quarter. I saw all our power lines and houses destroyed, and transformer bombed and ever since, repair efforts had not been effective.

Life here is very terrible, we survive by God’s grace.

“Before the invasion, Ayakoromo community was a commercial point for many communities around, but the story has changed today. All our artefacts are gone and the struggle for survival of the fittest had made many to desert the community. The military was very suppressive, but subsequently changed.

“Now they are friendly. When the Federal Government delegation visited the community, they promised to compensate our losses and rehabilitate us, but it turned out to be empty promises.

“Our farm lands, fishing nets, traps, canoe and ponds were

destroyed. I want government at all levels to come and give us some help that will make us recover all loses.”

Soldiers refused to rebuild my father’s house—WAYAS President of the National Association of Izon-Ebi Law Students, NAIL, Mr. Ebi Wayas, said he was a prime victim of the invasion, adding “I lost all my books and property worth millions of naira.

“My father ’s house was destroyed during the bombing and was abandoned by the military during reconstruction.”

He urged the Federal Government to compensate the families of the deceased persons, organize befitting funeral for the departed innocent citizens and indemnify the community for general loss.

How we escaped— ENAIBO, DEMIAN, AZEBIRI Narrating how they escaped being killed by stray bullets, Asiayei Enaibo, Ogbou Demian and Konboye Azebiri said they swam to a neigbouring town, where the villagers rescued them.

Enaibo said: “It is true that most of the destroyed houses were not reconstructed by the military. We are angry that they destroyed our beautiful

houses and then built barracks for us.

“Since the shoddy reconstruction, the government forgot about the community.

There is no medical care, no financial assistance after the N50 million from Delta State government, which was used to construct the destroyed community market.”

Azebiri pointed out, “many children and aged people died after we fled our community, because of bad nutrition and bad water intake, as there were no medical services in the community.”

National President Ijaw Peoples Development Initiative, IPDI, Mr. Austin Ozobo, who also spoke to Niger Delta Voice , condemned the laid-back attitude of the Federal Government towards the community.

Ozobo, who hails from Ayokoromo, said: “Some innocent persons were intentionally killed by triggerhappy soldiers and the community unlawfully razed.”

‘Ayokoromo not Togo’s camp’

“The military know that Ayakoromo is a community and not a militant camp, yet they alleged that the community is late John Togo’s camp and committed genocide.”

He said since government accepted responsibility for the bombardment of the community, it should expedite action to compensate the victims, including families of deceased persons, conduct befitting burial for the deceased persons and repair breached transmission lines to restore power in the community.

Ozobo called for proper medication, and provision of quality water for indigenes of the town, saying “till now, successive governments are still unable to provide potable water and public toilets system in the community.”

The activist said there was need for government to do more for the people, adding “the government of the day is wicked and inhuman. So many persons find it difficult to survive. Coupled with the flood, they in a dilemma.

“No political representative in the area has ever come to show any concern about the plight of the people; it is callous.’’

Ex-militants laud Jonathan, Army over Boko Haram

By Emma Amaize

W

ARRI—Niger Delta Liberation Force, NDLF, an ex-militant group in the Niger Delta, has applauded President Goodluck Jonathan and the African Joint Task Force, JTF, for the success recorded so far in the war against Boko Haram in the Northeast.

Spokesman of the group, “Captain” Mark Anthony, said in a statement, “We have been angry at President Jonathan and the Nigerian army over the years when Boko Haran held

sway over the nation with impunity, bombing and killing both Christians and Muslims with no meaningful counter attack on the part of the federal government, which instead of taking the war to Boko Haram, was pleading with them to accept amnesty.”

The group added: “Now that the army has launched their offensive against Boko Haram, we have heaved a sigh of relief and can go to sleep because the same army that was used to attack us in Niger Delta turned round to be wobbling and fumbling when it came to Boko

Haram.

“We had a great feeling of complicity and connivance on the part of the army until the ongoing military operations that have flushed out Boko Haram from their strongholds.”

“We, therefore, seize this opportunity to re-affirm our earlier endorsement for President Jonathan for a second tenure in office as President.

“We appeal to Nigerians to give their votes to President Goodluck Jonathan to continue his overwhelming and success story of the transformation.

8—Niger Delta Voice, TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2015

AGENDA

EWEF/CROWEF return to Ugborodo with charity mission

“There were a good number of hypertension and strokes,” pointing out that the health conditions of the people would have been improved if they had enough medical treatment.

Beneficiaries’ stories

Mrs. Betty Gbubene (Praise) Abraham de-worming a pupil of Fryo Nursery, Primary and Secondary School during the charity mission.

By Egufe Yafugborhi

T

HE Women and Youth Empowerment Foundation in Coastal Region Communities, CROWEF, has returned to the communities in Delta State for this year’s charity mission.

The three-day mission carried out at Aruton, the ancestral home of the Ugborodo people of Warri South-West council, concentrated on free eye care, including several surgeries to over 300 beneficiaries with partnership from the Africa Cataract and Eye Foundation, ACEF, the Agbowu Medical Centre and other medical experts.

Through further support from the Dangote Group of Companies and Kenvee Group of Companies, food items, particularly macaroni from Dangote, were also distributed to jubilant pupils of Fryo Nursery/ Primary/Secondary School in the area.

President of the Foundation, Mrs. Betty Gbubene (Praise) Abraham explained to Niger Delta Voice that the body had to be broadened from a rather enclosed Escravos-Ugborodo Women & Youth Empowerment Foundation, EWEF to CROWEF to stretch the outreach beyond the shores of Ugborodo.

Cost

Mrs. Gbubene, who put the 2015 charity mission cost at over N2 million, aside the support from the various partners, noted that the concentration on eye care this year developed from the health needs assessment conducted by the team, who carried out

C M Y K

the maiden mission last year.

The Africa Cataract & Eye Foundation, ACEF, led by its founder, Dr. Mejuya Okorodudu overwhelmed the beneficiaries with joy and gratitude when it restored the sight of Mr. Emile Okemeji with successful surgery for the 50 years old father of 10, who had been blind for over a year.

The NGO leader, while decrying the poor health status of the people, pointed out that many of them were “highly hypertensive. The foundations carried out free eye screening and surgery, blood pressure, BP, and sugar level (diabetes).

“There were other medical diagnosis and treatment, including drugs and eye glasses were presented to some visually-impaired persons, majority of them youths and women.”

In line with the United Nation’s policy on health, children between ages one and eight were also dewormed and given Vitamins A, B and C to prevent cold and catarrh.

Mrs. Gbubene measured the entire mission as a “fulfillment of EWEF/ CROWEF promise in caring for the needy in the society. Our gratitude will always rest with the consultants and donors whose support make our task easier.

Appeal to govts, companies, others

“My appeal is for corporate individuals, government at all levels and their relevant agencies to contribute to the general well being of the people, especially the poor, to make Nigeria a better place.

Dr. Okorodudu, who is passionate

about assisting people to regain their sight, told Niger Delta Voice that the seeming star patient, Mr. Okemeji suffered from cataract.

Okorodudu said: “Fifty per cent of blindness can be reversed. Nobody is too old to see or regain his sigh. My vision for the year 2015 is to see that not less than 1000 free surgeries are carried out on people in the riverine areas along the Benin River, Forcados and Ugborodo in Delta State.

The Africa Cataract & Eye Foundation (ACEF) led by its founder, Dr. Mejuya Okorodudu overwhelmed the beneficiaries with joy and gratitude when it restored the sight of Mr. Emile Okemeji with successful surgery for the 50 years old, who had been blind for over a year.

Mr. Okemeji’s wife, Roseline, told Niger Delta Voice that her hubby suddenly became blind after a malaria attack.

According to her, “my husband got sick. We treated him here in the village with local herbs in absence of a functional medical centre.

“One day, he woke up and became blind as his condition worsened. He has since been blind till this opportunity came by.”

Mr. Okemeji, who has 10 children, commended the NGO, and Dr. Okorodudu particularly, for sacrificing the time and money to restore his sight, not without calling on the Delta State Government to do same for the indigent people in riverine communities.

Otomewo Akpotobore, Mrs. Ogbodu Meke, Mr. Rawlings Omaejalile and Mr. Sola Lekpe among other beneficiaries got relieved through surgical removal of Pterigyium, a covering in front of the eyes.

Expression of gratitude Akpotobore, in her expression of gratitude asked, “if I were asked to pay for the service, where do I find that kind of money? May God bless Dr. Okorodudu who has been so patient with us.

“I can now read my bible which is the greatest thing he has helped me to achieve. And government must provide necessary backing with functional medical health centres in our communities.”

‘Guide your health’

Nobody is too old to see or regain his sight My vision for the year 2015 is to see that not less than 1000 free surgeries are carried out on people in the riverine areas along the Benin River, Forcados and Ugborodo in Delta State

Medical Director of Agbowu Medical Centre, Dr. David Agbowu, advised the people of Arunton (Ugborodo), “anything that you need to guard your health should be given adequate attention.

“Love those things more than you love yourself so as to develop and move the country forward.”

Dr. Agbowu reiterated the imperative for government to improve on basic infrastructures and sustainable quality medical care for the larger society to achieve a healthier, more productive society.

Olaja-Orori (Spiritual Head) of Ugborodo, Benson Omadeli, led the mobilization of folks for the EWEF/ CROWEF Free Health Care Mission 2015.

His final verdict: “This is truly mission accomplished. We are grateful and pray the gesture continues.”

Vanguard, TUESDAY, MARCH 3, 2015 — 33

34 — Vanguard, TUESDAY, MARCH 3, 2015

C M Y K

Vanguard, TUESDAY, MARCH 3, 2015 —35

Politicking with National Security

T

HE primary outcome of the 9/11 attack in the U.S. by terrorists affiliated to al-Qaeda is the intensification of measures to keep Americans safe and secure.

Since then, a number of security breaches have occurred, but the country has been relentlessly putting other measures in place to guarantee the safety of her citizens. The call from people in charge of keeping America secure is that the task is something that should involve everyone, because when the terrorists strike, they do not discriminate in the choice of their targets.

With this level of security consciousness, it would stand to reason that the last place one would expect matters of internal security to be treated with undeserved levity is the U.S. Congress. But, that expectation stands on quicksand. Last week, the undercurrent of politicking with the safety and security of the homeland blew out in the open when it emerged that some politicians in Congress treat the war against terrorism as a matter

for political posturing and wrangling. The issue is that funding for the U.S. Homeland Security Department was at risk of running out, and the department being shut down.

This government department has about 240,000 employees who oversee the U.S. secret service, the coast guards, transportation security administration, customers and border protection and the federal emergency management agency. In other words, practically everything about protecting the homeland lies in the docket of the Homeland Security Department.

So, why would there be any debate about providing funds for this crucial organ of government?

The simple answer to this complex issue is that it is about immigration. With their new majority in the U.S. Congress, Republicans want to use the funding of the Homeland Security Department as a bargaining chip to halt and possibly scrap everything President Obama has done to revamp the U.S. immigration

policy.

The issue of immigration reforms has become quite intractable in America. Ironically, former President George W. Bush had made spirted attempts to reform immigration, but could not do much because of entrenched political mind-sets against immigration in Republican circles, heightened by zealots who believe that immigrants are no longer welcome in America.

What they conveniently ignore or pretend not to realize is that their forefathers were themselves immigrants from all imaginable corners of the globe.

It was this atmosphere of impasse that emboldened President Obama to take unilateral actions, based on the powers of his office, to do something about immigration.

According to the White House,

The terrorists need just one successful attack and incident to show that they still pose a credible threat to America

the president’s comprehensive immigration policy would “provide undocumented immigrants with a legal way to earn citizenship. It requires that everyone play by the same rules, including passing a background check, and paying taxes and a penalty.” But, the Republican immigration hawks are not impressed. Left to their design, America should deport all estimated eleven million undocumented immigrants in the country. The consequences and impracticality of such root-andbranch approach to immigration do not mean much to the zealots.

However, what they failed to factor into their anti-immigration calculus was President Obama’s determination to push forward with his more humane immigration reforms.

Fortunately for the antiimmigration crusaders, a federal judge in Texas recently gave a ruling that temporarily blocked President Obama’s deferred deportation programme. This must have emboldened Republican Congressmen and women to provide their own armtwisting on the issue by making Homeland Security funding contingent upon the president pulling back on his immigration reform. But Obama has vowed that his administration will be “as aggressive as we can” on appealing the court’s order.

Surprisingly, and sensing that defunding the Homeland Security Department will be a backlash on Republicans come

presidential election time next year, Senate Majority leader Senator Mitch McConnell last week wisely decoupled both matters and brought a clean Homeland Security funding bill to the Senate. It was passed. But, the House of Republicans remained obstinate. They wanted a funding bill that will keep the department going for three weeks, a period that will give them opportunity to see if they can retool their strategy and gnaw away at the president’s immigration reforms. However, the Democrats saw through the façade and called for funding of just one week before the issue returns to Congress. That compromise passed just two hours to officially rendering the Homeland Security Department bankrupt last Friday as Congress passed a one-week funding bill and the president signed it into law.

It is still a puzzle why some Republican politicians would want to withhold funding for such an important department that protects Americans from all sorts of security threats from all manners of people and groups.

Politicking with such important issue is not in the best interest of the country. The terrorists need just one successful attack and incident to show that they still pose a credible threat to America.

Yet, some U.S. politicians want to defund the Homeland Security Department and provide the terrorists a good opportunity to have a successful strike.

36—Vanguard, TUESDAY, MARCH 3, 2015

By Emmanuel Aziken, Political Editor

I

T was some sort of provocation for Governor Adams Oshiomhole when he was attracted to claims that the N800 million Okpella water project in his native senatorial constituency in Edo State had been completed.

The uncompleted Federal Government project has been the subject of some interesting controversy.

Governor Oshiomhole was quick to debunk the claim last month adding that the money for the project was claimed by some unidentified chieftains of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP in his native Edo State.

The governor ’s claim was perhaps a consequence of other alleged claims of the completion of the project reportedly in the journals and calendars of the Federal Ministry of Water Resources.

Stakeholders in the project from the affected community had reportedly petitioned the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC on the issue perhaps in a desire to unfold the authenticity of the claim.

The issue took another life of its own when the Minister of Works, Mrs. Sarah Ochekpe, perhaps in the line with her political persuasion decided to bring in the All Progressives Congress, APC presidential candidate, Muhammadu Buhari into the affair.

Records of completion According to her “the Okpella project is one of the failed projects of the current flag bearer of the APC – General Muhammadu Buhari when he was the Chairman of the Petroleum Trust fund (PTF)”, the minister asserted in her reaction to Oshiomhole.

Admitting that the project has not been completed, she said: “there are no such records of completion in the Ministry, nor were there any funds appropriated and released to the tune of N800m and expended by the Ministry on the Okpella water supply project.

“If Governor Oshiomhole wants to undertake water projects especially for the people of Edo State, which is his statutory responsibility any way, let him go ahead and do so without joining issues with the PDP led Federal Government. The role of the Federal government in the provision of water to rural communities is interventionist not statutory. So Comrade Governor, brace up to your responsibilities and provide water for Edo people”.

Concluding, she said: “The

•Oshiomhole: Tackles minister on abandoned project

•Ochekpe: Jonathan is the best

Oshiomhole’s tango with Ochekpe The Federal Government and the Edo State government are locked in a war of words over the alleged politicisation of a water project in the state.

Federal Ministry of Water Resources therefore demands that the Comrade Governor use the same media to retract his unfounded allegations against the Federal Government of siphoning N800m that never existed”.

Oshiomhole was quick to offer the retraction she demanded and it was sharp.

The retraction articulated by the Special Adviser to the governor, Prince Kassim Afegbua flayed the minister for seeking to drag politics into the matter and for distorting facts.

Economic perfidy “Distorting facts for the sake of politics and misleading members of the public to score cheap political points underscore one of the reasons why the PDP has led the country on the path of economic perfidy,” Afegbua said.

Giving reference to Federal Government publications that put the Okpella water project as a completed project, he said: “In a publication entitled: “Sure & Steady Publication: Progress Report of President Goodluck Jonathan’s Administration”, Volume One, it was copiously stated under the briefings of the Ministry of Water Resources (which has

Mrs. Ochekpe’s picture generously displayed), that the Jonathan Administration did commence and complete the Okpella Water Scheme. The information is contained on page 127 of the said publication and the cost of N800m boldly stated.

“The same information was contained in the 2013 Calender published by the Federal Ministry of Information where it proudly listed the Okpella Water Scheme, among others, as the achievements of President Goodluck Jonathan’s administration.

Former Minister of Information, Mr. Labaran Maku was also confronted by the Senate Committee on Information on the erroneous claim that the Okpella Water Scheme had been completed sometimes in February 2014.

Provoked by this sheer falsehood, members of Okpella Community under the auspices of the Okpella Progressive Union, (O.P.U) Northern Congress, wrote a petition to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), late November 2013 to investigate and bring to book the contractor who claimed to have executed the said project, aware that nothing has been done.

“What was also curious was the fact that pipes that were

hitherto supplied by previous administration meant for the water project were also carted away. It took the personal intervention of the Comrade Governor to arrest the perennial stealing of the pipes that were initially deployed for

the job. As we speak, not a single pipe has been laid for the so-called water project. The question to ask the Minister is; if the project was abandoned by the PTF 17 years ago, how come it was listed as a completed project of the Water Resources Ministry she supervises and an achievement the administration President Jonathan?

Collective patrimony

Stakeholders in the project from the affected community had reportedly petitioned the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC on the issue perhaps in a desire to unfold the authenticity of the claim

“As a government that is truly representative of the people, we will continue to demand accountability from those who preside over our collective patrimony, and if need be, put a lie to their unsubstantiated claim with respect to projects awarded and abandoned. The people of Edo State demand apology from the Honourable Minister of Water Resources for deliberately distorting facts for mere politics. We also demand that the said project be delisted from the list of the so-called achievements of the Jonathan administration.”

The brawl with Mrs. Ochekpe is only the latest exchange between Governor Oshiomhole and ministers over the execution of projects in Edo State. He had two years ago laid into the minister of works, Arc. Mike Onolememen over the latter’s claim on the popular five road junction in BeninCity.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, MARCH 3, 2015—37

seven other cities in the SouthEast and South-South. The city is about 30 minutes drive to Ikot Ekpene, Port Harcourt, Owerri and Umuahia among others. The strategic location of this city makes it what sugar is to ants and it attracts people. So we must leverage this strategic geographical location of Aba to place world class infrastructure around Aba so that we can return trade and commerce and build industrial clusters using the German model.

What I mean by that is the apprenticeship system where we have family line businesses. But government must intervene in terms of giving access to world class finishing and equipment so that there can be mass production, finished products that can compete for space in shops in top shops in European markets.

European markets

•Ikpeazu: Abia is peopled by people with capacity in various areas

ABIA: Orji’s shoes are big but I'll run faster — Ikpeazu •Says I can’t be anybody’s stooge AMID a tight campaign schedule, the Abia State Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Governorship Candidate, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu, in this encounter spoke among others on his plans for Abia and how to actualise them, if elected. He admitted that Governor Orji has set a hurdle in terms of achievements but said he will run faster because he is younger.

BY Clifford Ndujihe

H

IS take on comments that he is a neophyte and stooge of Governor Theodore Orji I had my doctorate degree before my 30th birthday. I have taught in four universities, including being the external examiner of master’s degree students of University of Nigeria, Nsukka. It is not possible for someone to think of me as a stooge. All this can only exist within the realms of political propaganda. Almost every candidate in the race was once in the PDP, so apparently they all wanted to be stooges. They started singing different tunes when the PDP people said, “we want change but we want to change into certainty not into darkness’ and the civil servants said, “we want someone who can keep our jobs and pay us, not someone who will do rightsizing or down-sizing and retrench us at the end of the day.”

There is no governor in Nigeria that is anybody’s stooge. And if you played a role in canvassing for votes or helped a governor to be elected, you can’t expect the governor to be your stooge. You can only bring ideas that are beautiful on the table and if its falls into the main frame of a focused administration.

Superior logic Abia people know that I am the only person that is humble enough to entertain all shades of opinion, logic and suggestions. If your logic is superior we will go and test it. If mine is superior you go with me.

I am not coming with any airs of arrogance. I am humble enough to say that I need the support of the people of Abia and hopeful that they will give me.

The challenge of taking over and matching Governor Orji’s records?

The governor has enormous goodwill and he has carried himself as a gentleman. He has a lot of respect among the elders, and the common people of Abia.

He is a huge challenge. But I know that by the time the people understand my style, the difference will show. I will try to be as meticulous as Orji but I will run faster because I am younger.

His plans: The first plan is our people. Abia is peopled by people with capacity in various areas. Our human capital is second to none and we are the best traders and very good in commerce. We are also very good with the things we can do with our hands. So in the years ahead we want to leverage on these advantages that God has given us to make sure that the economy of Abia rests on strong pillars of trade and commerce, small and medium scale enterprises.

Of course we are in oil and gas but we want to let the advantage of oil and gas recede to the background because we are just marginal producers. So oil will not be on the front burner of our economic decisions in the days ahead.

We have another advantage. If you look at Aba for example, the city is at the confluence of about

We will also do a mass reorientation of the way our people think. The time has gone when people will talk down on the people of Abia. We want to say that we are the best in the world and that we will attract the attention of not only the best in Nigeria but also in Africa to Abia in the days ahead. This is our focus.

Plans for Aba... People talk about Aba just because they are thinking about votes. I talk about Aba with more passion because that is where I come from. I don’t have a house in any other part of the world than in Aba. Nobody is more interested in the Aba problem as myself, because you can’t be more Catholic than the Pope. And nobody has a better plan for Aba. First, I have a proper diagnostics of the Aba problem. Aba’s problem is rooted in the fact that infrastructural stock, in terms of drainage, houses, roads, have been static

There is no governor in Nigeria that is anybody’s stooge. And if you played a role in canvassing for votes or helped a governor to be elected, you can’t expect the governor to be your stooge

for awhile and the population has grown geometrically. And when that happens, it means that there will be more pressure on the roads and the drainages and they will start collapsing.

The drainage system has remained unmanned and unserviced because it is underground. Once you have underground drainage system, you must maintain it. You must go through it every year. And it has been left for almost 50 years and some people have also constructed buildings across the drainage system. We have three storey buildings and churches across the drainage systems.

What we want to do is first of all to do a ring road around Aba. I said earlier that Aba is in the centre of our plans because it is at the confluence of the states in the South-East South-South and our industrial clusters are going to take off from Aba. What you can get in Aba in terms of internally generated revenue can help you develop other parts of Abia including Umunneochi and other places.

So we want to do a ring road while we revisit the existing roads, remodel them and redesign them.

We have two options on draining and de-flooding. One, there is an underground drainage system, which has been silted to the brim and that is why each time it rains there will flooding.

Underground drainage So, do we open up and use open drainage system or do we continue with the underground system where we have to get experts to open the underground drainage for it to enter into the Aba River? But draining straight into the Aba River is also not environmentally sustainable. So we are thinking about a secondary water plant around Aba River that would capture the storm water, treat it up to secondary level and then return it to the river so that aquatic life can thrive.

Do you have the political will to redesign Aba given the houses that will be affected?

Politically and socially, you have to localize your strengths and weaknesses. What did it take the incumbent governor to remove the market in Umuahia to Ubani? He is a son of the soil.

His people are the people that own shops there and he found the political will.

For those who have constructed buildings across the drainages, those buildings will go. One kilometre of drainage will serve the entire city of five million people but a single house will serve just a family. We can’t allow your selfishness to put us all at risk. So we must do what we need to do when we get there.

38—Vanguard, TUESDAY, MARCH 3, 2015

EBONYI IMPEACHMENT: Marking time!

THE impeachment notice served on Governor Martin Elechi by the state House of Assembly last weekend is provoking different reactions in the sharply divergent political spectrum in the once placid state.

By Peter Okutu

A

FTER the defection by loyalists of the governor from the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP to Labour Party, the polity in Ebonyi became divided into two interest groups; one led by the PDP governorship candidate, Engr.

Dave Umahi, the other led by Governor Elechi. Elechi remains the leader of the defectors given the fact that the LP governorship candidate, Sir Edward Nkwegu continues to ride in the shadow of the governor.

Some of the anger of those in PDP was that Governor Elechi remained unrepentant in his bid to use the LP to destroy the party that provided him with the platform of being a two term Governor. The governor’s move followed his pitiable failure in stopping his once loyal deputy, Umahi from grabbing the PDP governorship ticket of the PDP. His rejection of Umahi was worsened by his trenchant opposition to the senatorial ambition of his predecessor, Dr. Sam Egwu, the very man who handpicked him as a successor.

Also vexatious in the consideration of some stakeholders was the governor ’s reversal of his earlier support for power shift to the Ebonyi South senatorial district after Umahi, who is from the south won the PDP primaries.

(8) allegations levelled against the Governor ranged from financial misappropriation, lack of due process in the appointment of government officials, establishment of stateowned companies without recourse to the state House of Assembly, acquisition of loans from banks without due process among others.

The notice which was comprehensively read to all the members of the House during plenary was signed by 14 PDP and one All Progressive Congress, APC members.

The motion for the Governor to be served an impeachment notice was moved by Hon. Obasi Odefa Obasi representing Onicha East constituency and seconded by Hon. Frank Onwe for Ohaukwu North state constituency.

A source close to the PDP disclosed that within two weeks of the notice, the Governor will be impeached by the State House of Assembly.

In his last media chat at the Executive chamber of the Government House, Abakaliki, Governor Elechi blamed the Secretary to the Government of

Impeachment notice What led to the impeachment notice on the governor was the burning of sections of the state House of Assembly last week.

Though police sources have not disclosed the culprits, tongues are wagging that the act was done by supporters loyal to the Labour Party in the state to avert the ongoing probe of the governor and some government officials and most importantly, the impeachment of the Governor.

The House of Assembly had last Friday served an impeachment notice on Governor Elechi over allegations of gross misconduct perpetrated by him since the commencement of the present administration in the state.

Reading the notice at the plenary, the Acting leader of the House, Hon. Francis Nwifuru stated that the eight

Also vexatious in the consideration of some stakeholders was the governor’s reversal of his earlier support for power shift to the Ebonyi South senatorial district after Umahi, who is from the south won the PDP primaries

•Elechi:m In the eye of the storm the Federation, SGF for all his woes including the impeachment notice served on him.

He said: “No day passes without one or more national dailies reporting the thickening of impeachment plot against me. The reports border on efforts to assemble sufficient number of signatories or investigation to justify the impeachment. It is interesting for Nigerians to know that the decision to impeach me preceded the finding of justifiable reasons to do so. It is simply the case of giving a dog a bad name in order to hang it.”

According to him, the Legislators must be convinced that an impeachment is justifiable before he or she can consent to it.

Justifiable reason But because there have been no justifiable reasons, many honourable members of the house of Assembly received threat messages to either append their signatures or risk assassination/and or a kidnap of their family members.

“Others are coerced from the National Headquarters of the PDP to give their bank particulars so that money will be paid into them In

consequence of the fore going many honourable members of the House of Assembly have either fled the state or are in hiding” Reacting, the Governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Engr.

Dave Umahi, weekend enjoined the governor to stop pointing accusing fingers on prominent sons of the state, including the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, SGF, Senator Anyim Pius Anyim and Chief Fidelis Nwankwo over the notice of impeachment that was served him by the state House of Assembly last Friday.

Comments of the impeachment At a press conference in Abakaliki, the PDP governorship candidate who described Governor Elechi’s comments on the impeachment notice as false and deceitful stated that it was the right of the House to serve an impeachment notice on any Chief Executive whenever it deemed necessary.

According to him, the Governor had no reason to blame his political woes on the SGF, but rather he should explain the issues of alleged financial misappropriation and constitutional breaches

highlighted in the impeachment notice and stop whipping up unnecessary sentiments.

Umahi alleged that Elechi had done everything within his powers to make President Goodluck Jonathan to sack the SGF, so that he (Elechi) would continue to run the affairs of the state as it pleased him.

“It is on record that Anyim has met the governor over five times pleading with him to call the leaders of the state together to make peace, which appeals, the governor turned down”.

“It is a verifiable fact that Anyim since December 2014 has been appealing to the House of Assembly members through notable leaders of the state not to confront Elechi over alleged breaches of the constitution and anti-party activities”.

The Deputy Governor further explained that the beginning of his problem with Elechi was because he insisted on running for the governorship position of the state, which was vehemently opposed by Elechi, not minding their agreement that he (Elechi) would hand over to him.

He stressed that rather than obey their agreement, the governor also tried to impeach him nine times.

With the service of the impeachment notice, the whole state is now on edge.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, MARCH 3, 2015 — 39

C M Y K

40 — Vanguard, TUESDAY, MARCH 3, 2015

•Some of the branded taxis before distribution

TRANSPORT SECTOR REVAMP:

Lagos introduces uniform licence for taxis

By Monsuru Olowoopejo

W

ORRIED by the economic crunch and dearth of investors in taxi operations, the Lagos State Government has designed a uniform licence scheme that will serve as collateral for taxicab operators in the state.

The move is part of the state transport policy bill that was sent to the Lagos State House Assembly last year.

The state government, last year, introduced metering pricing system in taxi operations to ensure wealth creation and safety in the public transportation sphere in the state.

All these, Vanguard gathered are aimed at boosting investors participation in the state’s N25 billion transport sector, as well as improve the standard of living of cab operators in the state.

Governor Babatunde Fashola disclosed the novel initiative at a stakeholders’ forum on the New Lagos Taxi System, tagged: ‘Understanding and

Unveiling the New Lagos Taxi policy ’, in Ikeja, last Thursday.

The governor said: “We (the government and the operators) have agreed that we will have the uniform licence system for all taxis on Lagos roads. And this licence

will serve as security to operate a taxi in the state.

“The licence will over time have value. It can act as collateral for you to secure loans. We realized that many of you do not have what you

Taxi drivers lament LASTMA, VIOs’ excesses T

It can act as collateral for you to secure loans. We realized that many of you do not have what you could tender at the banks to acquire loan. With this, you could expand your fleet.

could tender at the banks to acquire loan. With this, you could expand your fleet. So, your vehicle may age, they may be damaged, but your licences are indispensable.

This is the global licence

system that operates in many places across the world. It will help to improve your businesses.”

Fashola said the government took time to design the policy after reaching an agreement with the unions, saying, “for those who have travelled outside Nigeria to countries like United Arab Emirate, UAE, United Kingdom and others, they would have seen some of the innovative usage to which taxis have been put.”

The governor, however, yielded to the demands of the cab operators to review the point-of-entry policy for vehicles deployed as taxicab, noting that the government had considered reversal of the policy which stipulates usage of a 5-year-old vehicles or brand new ones as cabs and taxies in the state.

According to him, “it will be wicked for us as a government to insist that you should use only brand new vehicles as taxies, especially with devaluation of Naira. You now exchange one US dollar for about N200. And the Federal Government has concluded plans to increase tariff on imported vehicle. Except a government who doesn’t want your progress will say no to 12-year-old vehicles.”

But all those vehicles must be subject to Vehicle Inspection Certification for road worthiness. “This will boost your business. If your vehicle is not road worthy, you and your passengers will disagree. Your vehicle is like your office, it must be kept neat. If your office is unkempt, no client will patronize you.

Same goes for cabs that are not roadworthy.”

HE cab operators at the forum lamented that officials of the Lagos State Traffic management Authority, LASTMA and the state Vehicle Inspection Unit, VIO were frustrating their efforts to commute passengers easily in the state.

The Chairman of the Taxi section of the National Union of Road Transport Workers, NURTW, Otunba Olatunji Odujobi, who spoke on behalf of the 289 taxi parks across the state, stated: “We can’t operate easily because LASTMA and VIO have made our activities hectic.”

Explaining how both officials had been unfriendly to cab operators, Odujobi said: “Whenever we park to pick or to allow passengers alight, LASTMA and VIO often impound our vehicles. They claim that it is illegal to park where it is not designated as bus stop. But we do this within two minutes.

We need to understand that taxis do not have designated bus stops. And we have the right

to pick or drop passengers in any part of the state.”

Speaking earlier, the President of the Taxi Cab operators in Lagos State, Prince Tajudeen Adetoro, said the taxi /cab operators have always supported the state government.

Responding, Fashola said the Taxi operators must realize that the traffic regulatory agencies are at work for the good of the society just as the taxi drivers are and that at all times the taxi drivers must obey traffic rules.

He said the traffic agencies are out to ensure security of life and property and that all taxis and vehicles that ply the roads must have their vehicle papers and insurance certificates as well as all vehicle signals in place.

The governor also urged the operators at the various Taxi parks to ensure that they remain watchful and vigilant about happenings in the parks, adding that they must not relent in the checks that they carry out at the garages.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, MARCH 3, 2015 — 41

Mayhem: No hiding place for hoodlums –Police To clampdown on alcoholic drinks, drug sellers at motor parks

By Olasunkanmi Akoni

T

O check the activities of violent groups whose activities have breached peace in Oshodi area of the Lagos, the Police have read the riot act to hoodlums.

Two yet to be identified groups engaged in a violent clash where at least three people died and several vehicles were set ablaze last week in Oshodi.

In some quarters, the clash was attributed to miscreants from the two leading parties in the state over control of the popular Oshodi motor parks.

During the mayhem, Governor Babatunde Fashola ordered immediate deployment of armed policemen to the troubled area to bring the perpetrators to book.

After a heavy bombardment by the security personnel, the police in Lagos, last Thursday, assured residents of the readiness of the Command to work in collaboration with other security agencies to ensure that the state remains calm and peaceful, while warning hoodlums that there would be no hiding place for them in the state.

At an emergency State Security Council meeting presided over by Fashola, at the Lagos House, Alausa, Ikeja, the state Police Commissioner, Kayode Aderanti, said the Police and other security agencies were ready to ensure security in the state.

The Commissioner said his command and other security agencies would frontally address the challenges within the Transport union hierarchy in Oshodi, adding that henceforth, the Lagos State Traffic Laws of 2012, which prohibits the collection of dues within and around the motor parks and garages, would be fully

•Oshodi: Burnt buses, a deserted stree (Inset) after the mayhem

implemented.

Said Aderanti: “That same Law prohibits the sale of alcoholic drinks and drugs within 100 metres of these garages and parks. So, moving forward, the implication is that any of these union members that engages in these acts or in union activities in areas

The Police Command has given an ultimatum to one of the leaders of the factions to turn up to any of the security agencies for interrogation, or we are going to declare him wanted

Apapa gridlocks

W

HILE reacting to the gridlocks in Apapa, the Commander NNS Beecroft, Commodore Teikom Ikoli, said security agencies were currently working round the clock with some committees and other stakeholders around the ports to ensure that the situation is brought under control as soon as possible to restore free flow of traffic.

Other members of the Security Council in attendance were Commander NNS Beecroft, Olokun Apapa, Navy Commodore Teikum Ikoli; Commander Airforce Base Ikeja, Air Commodore Lere Osanyintolu; Commander 9 Mechanized Brigade, Major General Ahmed Mohammed Sabo; Director State Security Service, Mr. Ben Olayi and the Special Adviser to the Governor on Security, Major Tunde Panox (retd) among others.

where they are prohibited, the police will take over that area and ensure that people are not molested.”

The commissioner maintained that the crisis in Oshodi was not political adding that since the unfortunate incident 40 of those who perpetrated the acts have been arrested.

“These are the people that are causing the mayhem and what we need to do is just to get the arrow head off and when they are off, the foot soldiers can be tackled easily,” he said.

Aderanti, who affirmed that the security agencies were currently after those engaging innocent youths in violence, declared: “These are the people we want to dismantle their command and control centres and once that is done we can have peace in that area. The Police Command has given an ultimatum to one of the leaders of the factions to turn up to any of the security agencies for interrogation, or we are going to declare him wanted and it is going to be between us and him because they do not have any hiding place here in Lagos.”

Commenting on the forthcoming elections, Aderanti, assured residents that all the security agencies in the state were ready to ensure a comprehensive security cover in the state before, during and after the elections.

“Lagos is secured and all these minor irritations should not distract people.

Residents should go about their daily business activities,” the police boss asserted.

Divergent views trail Lagos Annual School Census

By Dotun Ibiwoye

L

AGOS State has commenced the Annual School Census (ASC) and the move has elicited divergent views among stakeholders in the state.

The necessity of the ASC, according to the state government, is to avoid inconsistencies in data generation and to make the exercise more acceptable.

State Commissioner for Education, Mrs. Olayinka Oladunjoye, at the formal flag off of the 2014/2015 ASC Sensitization Programme for stakeholders in the education sector recently said, principals and head teachers should cooperate with officials to produce credible data that would serve the need of the sector as drivers of the ASC. She noted the state government’s resolve to embrace credible data as a tool for effective planning and sound decision making.

The commissioner added that all hands must be on deck to ensure that a credible, reliable and usable data for the education sector is delivered thereby making a success of the exercise.

According to Oladunjoye: “I am imploring you all to be available to attend to the enumerators by making all records available including statutory records, administrative records and teaching records among others; providing access for the enumeration of facilities, equipment and on-the-spot headcount of staff and students; creating adequate time for the enumerators’ visit and volunteering correct and usable

information. I wish to urge all our stakeholders, especially our principals and head teachers who are the drivers of the Annual School Census to produce credible and timely data for the education Sector. “ Hitherto, inconsistencies of data, care-free attitude to data collection and non-remittance of timely returns have characterized the attitudes of the stakeholders. As such, I wish to appeal to you all to turn a new leaf by embracing efficient data generation that is worthy of our efforts and usable across board”.

According to Nzube Azuka who lives in Shomolu: “The Annual School Census is a laudable idea but I am just concerned about continuity and efficacy. Whatever plan and project embarked upon by a government should be used to achieve a desired outcome. In this part of the world, several projects are just introduced on face value and there is no implementation and continuity.’’

For Lolade Arogundade: “What happens to the project when a new government comes in now that we are at the last lap of this administration? It is not a bad idea. After all, census is an official enumeration of the population with details like age, sex, occupation. So bringing it to the school is not bad.

Abubakar Usman said: “Everything is now politicised in this country. We all know that local, state and federal governments have not given Nigerians 100 percent details of what they tell us. So we are keeping our fingers crossed and hope for the best.’’

42—Vanguard, TUESDAY, MARCH 3, 2015

• From left: Ms. Dolapo Ogunleye, CEO of DDS Cancer Support in London presenting a prosthesis bra to Executive Director, COPE, Mrs Ebunoluwa Anozie last week in Lagos and (left): A cross section of breast cancer survivors.

Breast cancer survivors speak out!

•It is a new chapter in my life, God has given me a 2nd chance — Della •After treatment, everyday means a lot to me — Kate

By Chioma Obinna

O

NE nation! The woman’s outburst generated interest. Indeed, few wondered aloud what she was on about.

Then she explained. “I refer to our breasts as one nation since most of us have lost one breast to breast cancer.”

The explanation of the woman, who is in her early 50s, triggered another round of jokes. Gathered at the venue were about 35 women - all breast cancer survivors. They were there for their monthly Support Group designed to increase the support network of the people in the group, and also a healthy resource for breast cancer survivors to cope and heal in the recovery process following diagnosis and treatment.

Support programmes It was during the February support programme put together

by Care Organisation Public Enlightenment, C.O.P.E last week in Lagos, that some of the women shared their experiences with Good Health Weekly. For these women, cancer has opened a new chapter in their lives.

Each woman told her story about cancer. Various questions were asked. How will I overcome the difficulty of undressing in the presence of my husband? One woman asked.

“I no longer enjoy sex.“You

should feel free to enjoy sex.

Make the best of your time.

Don’t allow depression to set in because it is the greatest enemy to cancer patients. If I can get a man to marry me after losing one breast to cancer, you can do it.”

Another responded.

It was significant the women had an understanding. One nation may mean to an ordinary person as ‘unity” or a country’ but to them, it meant a different thing.

These were women who had lost one or both breasts to breast cancer. In their midst, one would begin to realize that cancer is not a death sentence contrary to the picture painted, books read and stories heard about the Serial Silent Killer, SSK, disease.

Then, I thought it was the white people’s disease until I was diagnosed. I was due for a wedding in Nigeria then, so I was more occupied with my plans to come to Nigeria and not losing my ticket money which I had paid. I wasn’t afraid because I never knew what cancer was then.

“When they said they were going to cut off the breast, I responded that they should cut it and let me travel for the wedding. The surgery was successful and I came to Nigeria for the wedding.”

However, reality dawned on Della when she started chemotherapy. It was then she

Through cancer, God gave me a 2nd chance – Della, survivor, 4 years breast cancer One of the women, 53 years old Mrs. Della, who came all the way from London to attend the support programme and also donate prosthesis bras to the women said living with cancer does not kill you but the chemotherapy treatment does.

“When I was told I had cancer, I was not afraid because I had little or no knowledge of the disease.

I was having pains in my breast so I decided to visit the hospital.

It is like a new chapter in my life.

God has given me a second chance, I take life easy; I don’t stress or shout, I take things easy.

It is a new life and a new beginning

knew that cancer was not child’s play. “Chemo is the killer.

Chemo was when I knew I had cancer. I was on my own.”

Temptations and challenges Della, who lamented the many temptations and challenges she faced recounted: “When you have cancer people will run away. There will be nobody to stand by you. I did not have a support group to see black people having cancer before I now started DDS Cancer Support Group strictly for black people. Then, I wanted to see how an African survives cancer.

It was difficult.

“I was the only black person among all the white people.

Since then I have been making noise for the need for support group for people with cancer.”

Della who described cancer as a lonely and painful journey added that individuals cannot do it alone. “Sometimes you just want someone to be with you, to talk to, but people don’t understand. I was so depressed which is the effect of chemo.

Cancer is nothing but the treatment of cancer that is the real thing.

“Even after cutting my breast I met someone and we got married. It is the experience of the chemo that kills people. It is not just the cancer itself.”

One thing Della said cancer did for her was that it made her

aware of healthy living.

“Today I feel good, I am now looking after myself. I am now conscious of myself. I now exercise. Even one of my sisters in London told me cancer ‘did me good.’ It is like a new chapter in my life. God has given me a second chance; maybe things have gone wrong. I take life easy. I don’t stress or shout.

I take things easy. It is a new life and a new beginning,” she stated.

After breast cancer treatment, everyday means a lot to me – Kate, survivor, 9 years breast cancer Kate Ugwu said since after her treatment nine years ago; everyday means a lot to her. “I decided to stay healthy. I take a lot of supplements. Some they call antioxidants. I make myself happy and talk to people around me if there is anything bothering me. I am not giving depression a chance.”

Unlike Della, Kate discovered her breast cancer after her 40th birthday. The affected breast was later removed. She fought a gallant fight.

“I fought breast cancer with determination and I thank God I did not die of depression because a lot of patients die because of depression and not even cancer.

Though I felt weak the first week but I picked up courage as my

Continues on Page 43

Vanguard, TUESDAY, MARCH 3, 2015—43

Breast cancer survivors speak out!

Continuedsfrom Page 42 family and people who have benefitted from me were there to assist me.

“I decided on my own. I got some medical people that are closed to me. I told them to remove the lump right away. Immediately the remove the lump I took it to the lab and when the result came out I was sad. The doctors did radical mastectomy and the whole breast was removed.

“I spent well over a N1 million to do 10 courses of chemotherapy.

It was terrible; I sourced for funds, browed money because it is not something you say, oh, I will do it when I have money.

“Every three weeks I have to get it. I wasn’t given any blood transfusion, the doctors said I have beaten their medical record, that nobody that has gone through chemotherapy 10 times would not require a pint of blood. I started taking blood supplements and I was fine. During that time a lot of people died of depression.

Students aged 18 years were dying of depression. My Bible was my comforter all through.

“After five years I went for another screening and we saw another lump on the other breast and I was scared to the marrow. Immediately, I did it like the first one, it was a very big lump, It was removed and fortunately after four weeks they said it was not cancerous.

“I was happy and since then,

helping them to take treatment.

If cancer patients are being taken care of like this HIV patients, many of them will survive.

We are only asking government to subsidise cancer treatment.

Many people die because of lack of money to treat themselves,” she lamented.

Comprehensive cancer centre will reduce mortality from cancers –COPE

• Breast cancer kills more black women than whites. everyday means a lot for me. I decided to stay healthy. I take a lot of supplements. I am no longer on drugs. I was told that I was going to take a particular drug for five years, but I said I would not need it because most people taking it are complaining that the drug is worsening their situation. Again, because that drug is too expensive I decided that the money should be used for supplements.”

Kate was regretful that many Nigerian women with cancer are picked up late. She urged women to seek help early. “Under this support group, people are getting assistance. People that cannot pay, the organisation is

In her contribution, Convener of the Support Group and Executive Director, Care Organisation Public Enlightenment, COPE, Mrs Ebunola Anozie, stressed the need for the Nigerian government to establish a comprehensive cancer centre,

After five years I went for another screening and we saw another lump on the other breast. I was scared to the marrow. It was removed, fortunately after four weeks they said it was not cancerous

adding that cancer should not be competing with diseases such as back pain, malaria amongst others.

“With a comprehensive cancer care, patients will be detected and treated early. There will not be referrals because most hospitals are dealing with other diseases and that is why they keep giving them referrals. If a woman comes to you with malignant breast cancer today and you are giving her three months or six months, of course it will progress.”

Anozie also stated that the centre would also help economically as it would save the money patients waste to go outside the country for treatment.

“It will even equip our local medical experts. We have brilliant doctors and some of them are sought after outside the country but you find out that because they do not have the tools to work with, they migrate.

Then, it is going to reduce the mortality rate of cancer because it will be detected early and treated which is what everybody is crying for.”

Accusing government of not doing enough for cancer patients, she critiqued sponsorships of research work on cancer. “How many black women go for clinical trials? Do we have clinical trials done here? Do we have medication produce here? We have herbalists putting something together, are we supporting them? I am positive that the answer to cancer is here.

“When you are using

Semilore seeks N3.5m for open heart surgery

By Gabriel Olawale

D

AY and night, Semilore Shitta cries, non-stop. The persistent crying right from birth, has left her parents in misery At six months of age, the crying became unbearable. Her parents noticed that her heart beat was faster than normal, her tongue and lips were black but the doctor assured all was well.

At another hospital, she was diagnosed to be suffering from symptomatic multiple congenital heart defects, worsened by poor oxygen supply.

Currently, at 11 months and no thanks to the prolonged oxygen deficiency, her organs have been affected and her growth and development stunted. Medical experts have already recommended intensive cardiovascular evaluation and possible corrective open heart surgery.

The surgery which is to be done outside the country requires an estimated N3.5 million.

In an appeal, Semilore’s mother, recounted that it all started six weeks after she was born. “I noticed she was always crying, this made me take her to the hospital where I gave birth to her, but the doctor told me nothing was wrong. Despite several visits the doctor maintained that nothing was wrong.

• Semilore Shitta.

“When I could not keep it to myself again, I explained to a friend who adviced me to take her to the General Hospital at Ajeromi in Ifelodun Local Government Area. It was there I was told she has a heart defect and we were referred to Lagos University Teaching Hospital, LUTH, IdiAraba Lagos.

“Our visit to LUTH cost a lot of money because she received

oxygen daily at the cost of N 5,000 per day. The hospital advised us to let her go for surgery at any centre with facilities for surgery for complex heart defects.

Presently my husband business is not moving well and we are only surviving with the little I earn from my work. The last time we went to clinic at LUTH, Shemilore weighed 6.1kg normally by now at 11 months she supposed to be

weigh like 10.5 or 11kg. For now the only thing she can do is to seat down in one place, she can’t crawl.

In a medical report made available by LUTH and signed by the Consultant Paediatrician, Prof. CAN Okoromah, it was revealed that Shemilore is suffering from multiple congenital heart defects, which was confirmed by echocardiography to consist of Ebstein’s anomaly, hypoplasticright ventricle, atresia of the pulmonary artery among others.

Explaining, Okoromah stated: “The complications of these heart defects, which include chronic hypoxaemia, meaning prolonged poor oxygen supply to the body cells and organs, have affected baby Shitta’s growth and development.

“Semilore requires further cardiovascular evaluation and possible open heart surgery to correct his heart defects in order to forestall irreversible and lifethreatening complications,” the doctor noted.

If you are touched and wish to support in correcting Semilore’s abnormality, kindly send your donations to Skye Bank, Shitta Semilore 1031056816. For more clarification, please call 08027172733.

medication that has been tried on a white person on a black woman how is it going to work that is why a lot of medications may not work.

We need to get our ass together.

It saddens me when I hear that someone has stolen from government and nothing is being done about it. Meanwhile people are dying. Until it happens to someone close them, they will start running up and down,” she lamented.

Better healthcare assured for Isoko under Okowa — OGEH

P

ROSPECTS of enhanced healthcare delivery have been highlighted if the Delta State governorship candidate on the platform of the People's Democratic Party (PDD) Senator Ifeanyi, Okowa is recieves the people’s mandate in the April 11, 2015 elections.

The Commissioner representing Isoko Ethnic Nationality in the Board of the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission, DESOPADEC, Joseph Ajiri Ogeh who disclosed this to the press during a fact finding mission on completed DESOPADEC projects in Isokoland., said health would be a cardinal project of the party in the state.

The tour took the journalists to the Central Hospital Oleh, in Isoko South LGA where the Commission built and equipped an oxygenreticulation plant. Ogeh said the oxygen reticulation plant is a mechanism which distributes oxygen which is the essential air used by human beings to all the wards in the hospital through a network of pipes.

He said to ensure survival of patients that require oxygen while on admission at the hospital , they would not have to wait any longer gasping for the life supporting oxygen while waiting for oxygen cylinders to be brought in by the hospital staff.

The plant is made up of a tank filled with oxygen, an electricity generating plant which has automatic switch gear in case of power failure and pipes connecting the oxygen to various wards.

Ogeh pointed out that, being an experienced medical doctor, Okowa was well positioned to ensure the health facilities are upgraded with modern equipment that will ensure better welfare and longevity of Deltans.

44—Vanguard, TUESDAY, MARCH 3, 2015

PSN tasks political parties on health care delivery

By Sola Ogundipe

A

S the 2015 elections draw closer, the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria, PSN, has called for political engagement of stakeholders in the nation’s health sector.

Making the call in Lagos, President of the PSN, Olumide Akintayo, said following an appraisal of the totality of political happenings in Nigeria in recent months the PSN wondered why politicians have failed woefully at all levels (Federal and State) to imbibe expected rules of engagement with regards to pharmacists and other key stakeholders in the health sector.

Akintayo, who challenged the major political parties to engage the professional associations and trade unions in town hall meetings which inculcates the stakeholders in health especially the professional associations and the trade unions, urged politicians across all sides of the divide to conduct their activities with decorum so that there will be a united Nigeria to preside over after the much talked about elections.

His words: “One would have assumed that a perpetually boiling multidisciplinary sector like health with an array of frontline professionals would normally be a focus of special attention for serious politicians in the business of nation building.”

Akintayo said, in apocalyptic terms, the PSN considers it necessary that the PDP and APC come up with specific action plans on key areas such as Universal Health Coverage (Including Community Based Social Health Insurance Programme (CBSHIP))

For universal coverage to be acceptable, and quality assured for social health insurance, he urged parties to canvass a consolidated healthcare funding which requires first line deduction of at least 5 percent for healthcare delivery. This helps in funding the subsidy gap.

"The NHIS must partner the PSN and its appendages to champion a credible drug supply scheme by facilitating the involvement of major manufacturers and importers in the NHIS. "We also call for massive advocacy to sell the new Scheme to the Health consuming public and to ensure a proper

understanding of the workings of health hnsurance by the Nigerian public.”

For the pharmaceutical sector, Akintayo said government at the centre must come up with reforms that will usher a petrochemical industry which is the precursor for genuine industrial revolution across board.

“The moment Nigeria comes up with benzene plants, then the inertia for primary manufacturing is established in contrast to the stuttering fortunes which we have continually witnessed in our country,” he noted.

• From left: Outgoing Secretary, Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria, ACPN, Lagos State branch, Olabanji Ogundimu; outgoing Lagos State Chairman of ACPN, Aminu Abudulsalam-Yinka and the newly elected Chairman of ACPN, Lagos, Biola Paul-Ozeh during the general meeting of the association in Lagos.

Scientists study blood of Nigerian Ebola survivor

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S the world community, intensifies effort to produce medication for the treatment of the Ebola Virus Disease (EVD), the blood sample of a Nigerian doctor who survived the disease has been taken by researchers.

Agency report said Dr. Akiniyi Akindipe a staff of the First Consultant Medical Centre that survived Ebola travelled to San Antonio in the United States last week when researchers drew sample his blood.

The South Texas Blood and Tissue Center (STBTC) is behind the research aimed to address Ebola which currently has no known drug for cure nor vaccination to prevent the ailment.

Ebola has ravaged populations across west Africa killing over over 9,000 people.

According to the report, the blood of Fadipe will be screened for a research project in Austin, Texas which aims to find an effective Ebola treatment.

Fadipe is part of the team which treated the first Ebola case in Nigeria. Eight members of the team contracted the Ebola virus; four survived, including Fadipe.

Last month, an STBTC team drew the blood of Dallas nurse Amber Vinson, another Ebola survivor.

Ebola was first imported into the country in July last year by a Liberian American, Mr. Patrick Sawyer who was admitted at the FCMC in Obalende where he infected the medical team that cared for him.

Although, Sawyer succumbed to the ailment, three days after hospital admission in Lagos and gave up the ghost, four of those he infected including Akindipe survived. The World Health Organisation declared Nigeria Ebola free on October 20, 2014.

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Vanguard, TUESDAY, MARCH 3, 2015—45

Orbih accuses Edo APC of destroying posters of PDP candidates

By Gabriel Enogholase

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ENIN—PEOPLES Democratic Party, PDP, Edo State chapter, has alleged the defacing and destruction of posters of President Goodluck Jonathan and other candidates of the party across the state by suspected All Progressives Congress, APC, supporters and appealed to the leadership and members of the APC to stop what it described as the deliberate and unprovoked destruction of their posters.

The PDP also expressed surprise at the posters of Governor Adams Oshiomhole, which it said now adorn the state capital, Benin, and other parts of the state, asking if Governor Oshiomhole was a candidate in the forthcoming general elections.

However, in his reaction, APC State Secretary, Godwin Erhahon, said that his party was not aware of the defacing and removal of posters of PDP candidates in the state.

Edo State Chairman of PDP, Chief Dan Orbih, spoke at Iguobazuwa and Ekperi in Ovia South-West and Etsako Central Local Government Areas of the state where he welcomed defectors from the APC, including a former Commissioner for Lands and Survey, Mr. Donald Osikhena Boi, to the PDP. Other politicians who defected to the PDP at the

events included Mr Ernest Omoregie, Mr David Ediovba and a former secretary of the APC in Ovia South-West Local Government Area, Mr Sunday Ebose, who joined the PDP along with his supporters.

“They should show us what they have and allow us show what we have instead of destroying our posters.

Obviously, they are afraid of

showcasing their candidates, hence the use of Oshiomhole’s posters. They have, however, forgotten what Oshiomhole now stands for in Edo State.

“Today, Oshiomhole is bad news in Edo State. As we speak now, he has flown to London. We don’t understand why he flies out of the state at the slightest opportunity,” Orbih said.

A-Ibom traders close shops for Emmanuel

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RADERS across major markets in Akwa Ibom State, temporarily suspended operations and converged in the state capital to unanimously declare support for the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, governorship candidate in the state, Mr Udom Emmanuel.

The event at the popular Itam Market was organised by the Conference of Traders Associations in the state to show their support for the PDP government in the state led by Chief Godswill Akpabio.

Speaking at the ceremony, the PDP governorship candidate in the state, Mr. Emmanuel, promised to assist traders in the state through the establishment of a microfinance bank and opening of several opportunities for them.

Emmanuel, who said he was surprised that the traders had closed all markets in the state to honour him, said that with the establishment of a microfinance bank for the traders, the traders would be able to access loans to expand the scope of their businesses.

PRAISE NIGHT: From left: Governor Seriake Dickson of Bayelsa State his wife, Rachael and the Deputy Governor, Rear Admiral John Jonah (rtd), during the state's monthly praise night at the King of Glory Chapel, Government House, Yenagoa.

Delta issues DELBI cards to entrepreneurs

By Festus Ahon

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SABA—DELTA State Government has commenced the issuance of the State Business Identification Cards, DELBI cards, to entrepreneurs who are registered with it for the conduct of businesses.

The state Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Dr Chris Ekiyor, who stated this during the flag-off ceremony on the Enlistment and Issuance of the Delta State Business Identification Card, DELBI card, noted that business transactions were becoming more complex globally.

Stressing the need for proper administration using innovative information and communication technologies, Ekiyor said operations relating to functions and services were carried out manually and could cause time lag thus reducing efficiency.

He said, “The ministry is statutorily responsible for providing an enabling environment necessary for the establishment and growth of all

kinds of businesses which informed the computerising and automating of some of its critical functions.

He said: “The process will result in proper policy formulation, planning, implementation, gathering, storage, and dissemination of commercial and industrial data for members of the constituency in order to achieve the desired

industrial growth and development of the state.”

Ekiyor listed the benefits of DELBI to include “guide to investors, marketers, suppliers, buyers and potential job seekers and enhancement of information gathering necessary for concessionary intervention by government, creditors, and international development agencies."

Omasteye files fresh suit against APC, INEC over substitution

By Charles Kumolu

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ENATORIAL candidate of All Progressives Party, APC, in Delta South senatorial district of Delta State, Mr. Temisan Omatseye, has filed a fresh suit before a Federal High Court sitting in Abuja, against the APC, challenging the substitution of his name as the party ’s senatorial candidate.

Joined as defendants in the suit are the Independent

Electoral Commission, INEC, and Prince Yemi Emiko.

Omatseye is challenging the alleged imposition of Emiko as the APC candidate for Delta South in the forthcoming March 28 poll.

The plaintiff is seeking the continuation of the initial suit he filed before the same court, where he joined INEC, National Chairman of APC, National Working Committee of APC and Prince Yemi Emiko as defendants, which was struck out by the court.

Delta LP warns APC against politics of blackmail

By Perez Brisibe

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GHELLI—DELTA State chapter of Labour Party, LP, has asked the All Progressives Congress, APC, in the state to stop what it termed “witchcraft politics” against the LP Delta Central senatorial candidate in the forthcoming general elections, Obarisi Ovie Omo-Agege.

In a statement, state Secretary of the party, Chief Lance Orhierhor, alleged that “The APC is deploying every instrument of blackmail and naked hypocrisy in a feeble attempt to stop Omo-Agege ahead of the general elections.

“Let it be abundantly clear to the world that the APC and its members being absolutely hypocritical, are allergic to the truth and godliness and are never a reference point for political sermons on proper human behaviour."

Group tasks Buhari on Abuja Peace Accord

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NonGovernmental Organisation, NGO, Supporters of Dr Fortune Fiberesima for Goodluck Jonathan, SFFGJ, has asked the All Progressives Congress, APC, and its presidential candidate, General Muhammadu Buhari, to moderate the actions of their supporters in order to conform with the Abuja Peace Accord.

It also said President Goodluck Jonathan, given the enormity of the amount of work done in the last four years, would be returned as president.

The group, at a rally in Abuloma, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, urged the people of the SouthSouth, and all Nigerians to vote en-masse for the president in the coming election.

Its president, Chief Adokiene Tams, said: “We know that no right thinking person, witnessing some of the things this president has done so far, would say that the president does not deserve a second term."

46—Vanguard, TUESDAY, MARCH 3, 2015

Anambra upgrades teachers' level

Ikedife accuses Jonathan of marginalizing Igbo

By Enyim Enyim

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NITSHA—GOVERNOR Willie Obiano of Anambra State has approved the upgrading of teachers’ grade level, GL, in the state from 15 to 16.

The governor announced this on the occasion of his commissioning of Willie Obiano Conference Hall at the newly-built Anambra State Teachers House in Awka.

Obiano, who said he had to sign the promotion papers because of the commitment of the teachers to their duties, hinted that the list of those to benefit from the new GL 16 would be published on Friday.

However, state chairman of Nigerian Union of Teachers, NUT, Mr. Ifeanyi Ofodile, appealed to the governor to intervene in the exercise, which left out more than a thousand staff that took the promotion interview.

He added that the governor promised to release N15 million to the union for

By Enyim Enyim

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ORMER president of the apex Igbo sociocultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Dr. Dozie Ikedife, has faulted President Goodluck Jonathan’s government on grounds of marginalization of the South-East.

Ikedife said Jonathan’s administration had not really done well, adding “information show that of the six geo-political zones, south-east has the least federal presence in terms of infrastructure and other social amenities.”

He said the Jonathan government had not thought it expedient to give serious attention to the federal roads in the South-East, which were now impassable.

furnishing and other needs in the secretariat, a 2KVA power generating set and appealed to the workers to redouble their effort to enable government increase its revenue base.

Ofodile said the governor

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Nigerian information and communication technology, ICT, firm, VDT Communications, has become the first firm in the telecom sector to get ISO 20000-1 certification in West Africa.

Managing Director of VDT, Engr. Biodun Omoniyi, said the desire to serve customers better was the driving force behind the vision to achieve top notch service delivery, adding that the certification would also be a motivation.

He said with the certification, VDT could now ensure “ reduction in incidence,

improved incidence management, reduction in response time and interruption to ICT services, improved cost management and continual improvement in operations.

“The ISO 20000-1 certification benchmarks VDT’s ICT management capability and assures our customers that we are a world class ICT organization.”

Mrs Bimbo Ikumariegbe, VDT’s General Manager, Sales and Marketing, said the certification was a testament to the firm’s focus on customers’ satisfaction.

Explaining VDT’s desire for international standard,

By Anayo Okoli

F the postponement is in the interest of the country, then there is nothing wrong with it.

But if it is political, then there is everything wrong with it. That is just what I can say about the postponed elections. —Miss Jolaosho Jadesola, Businesswoman.

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Lagos introduces uniform school leaving certificate

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MUAHIA—SOUTH-East National Vice Chairman of Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Col. Austin Akobundu (retd), has expressed worry over the crisis rocking the party in Ebonyi State.

He warned that the party would no longer tolerate activities of hoodlums being used by some highly-placed individuals in the state to destroy public and private property.

Akobundu described last week’s fire at Ebonyi State House of Assembly as

Assistant General Manager, Service Management, Mrs Omolola Abolarinwa, said the firm’s principle of continual improvement ensured it did not experience retrogression as every achievement was a bench-mark that called for checks and how next to improve ICT services.

Mrs Adedoyin Odunfa, Managing Director of Digital Jewels, VDT’s technological partner, said the certification was the first internationallyrecognized standard for ICT management, comprising endto-end services such as daily commitments, support, management and customer feedback.

regrettable and unacceptable.

He said: “Our attention has been drawn to reports that some hoodlums, acting on the directive of highly-placed individuals in the state, have burnt down some parts of Ebonyi House of Assembly and are even threatening to carry out similar attack against the official residence of the deputy governor and PDP governorship candidate in the state, Chief Dave Umahi.

“We will not condone the act of lawlessness, resulting from membership of any association; more so using it to wreak havoc on citizens and private property.

“It is not contestable that Ebonyi State is a PDP stronghold and that PDP has made strong and indelible impact in the state and has provided the people of Ebonyi State dividends of democracy.

“We are aware that the people of Ebonyi State are eagerly waiting for March 28 and April 11 to reciprocate the excellent gestures of the party. We will not, therefore, tolerate the plot of some imposters who think they can use public machinery available to them to put a thaw on the bond between our party and the people of Ebonyi State.”

By Olasunkanmi Akoni

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AGOS State government has introduced a uniformed attestation/testimonial for primary six pupils in public and private schools in the state.

Commissioner for Education, Mrs. Olayinka Oladunjoye, who disclosed this yesterday, said the certificate would be issued on completion of primary six education.

She made the disclosure at the presentation of testimonials to selected schools, explaining that the exercise was aimed at entrenching the policy of making pupils complete primary six education in the state.

The commissioner noted that the introduction of the certificate would also help to address the needs of many primary school leavers, who usually required one form of certification or the other.

Oladunjoye said: “This policy of the issuance of the certificate to primary schools leavers on completion of primary six education in Lagos State is part of the ongoing reforms of the state.”

By Bartholomew Madukwe (08102479985) nwamad@yahoo.com

PEOPLE SPEAK

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assuming office.

He praised the governor for the recent re-adjustment of workers salary in the state.

South-East PDP Chairman warns Ebonyi party stakeholders

Nigerian firm gets ISO 20000 certification

By Oboh Agbonkhese

had given the union N10 million for the completion of the NUT House secretariat complex, pay salaries when due, adopted NUT policies, sponsored workers’ seminars/ workshops and carried workers along since

What is your view on the polls shift?

E are told that the reason for postponing the February elections is to enable people who are yet to collect their PVC get them. I think it is wrong to postpone elections for three weeks. It shows unseriousness on the part of INEC.— Miss Lilian Agba, Goldsmith.

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NEC has failed. The Federal Government is just looking for a way to make adjustment on what they were supposed to have done before now. They just want to buy more time and postponing the elections is a sure way of achieving that.—Mr. Yusuf Opeyemi, Student.

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HIFTING the elections from February 14 to March 28 has caused a lot of confusion.

It has also affected academic calendars for many. Students who are supposed to have rounded off their programme cannot do so anymore.— Mr. Adedayo Akinsete, Student.

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Suara Abass, Sports Analyst.

—Miss Oluwatobi Elemide, Egg Dealer.

E knew that the elections would hold four years ago, so shifting the polls shows that INEC and the FG were never serious. I think they should take the blame for every embarrassment the polls shift might have caused Nigeria. —Mr.

LL I need to say is that the February postponed elections affected many people who had already made some plans in line with the elections. Postponing the February elections is bad for such people's personal business.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, MARCH 3, 2015 — 47

We'll create more jobs thru agric — YERO G

OVERNOR Mukhtar Ramalan Yero of Kaduna State has said his administration would sustain its efforts towards creating massive job opportunities for youths and women through the ongoing Agricultural Transformation Programme, ATP, in the state.

Speaking during his campaign tour of Ikara Local Government Area, Yero said part of his administration’s efforts at improving the agriculture value chain was the reopening of the state- owned Ikara Food Processing Company which was shut down for over two decades.

He said “we are committed to improving the agricultural sector to provide opportunities for our teaming unemployed youths in the value chain process. That is why we are happy that the Ikara Food Processing Company has been reopened because it will reduce idleness and restiveness in this area.”

Yero said Ikara had benefited a lot from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) especially under his administration, with the revival of the tomato company, distribution of subsidized fertilizers to farmers and completion of the Soba-Ikara road.

On education, the governor said the present administration had upgraded schools in the area to meet global standards with provision of additional teachers, rehabilitation of structures, provision of learning facilities and regular training of teachers.

He added that PDP as a party was endowed with the zeal and will power to develop the people, as all its policies were geared towards creating enabling environment for businesses to grow.

Yero then solicited for the support of the people for the party in the forthcoming general elections by voting for its candidates at all levels

without fear of intimidation.

In his welcome address, the Chairman of Ikara Local Government, Sekiru Kantoma, said the PDP made gains in the area with the recent decampment of several members of the opposition to its fold, and predicted resounding

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administration completed several major projects initiated in the last four years especially, the fourth Kaduna Bridge and Kudenda Road network. Yero also pledged to complete all ongoing projects in the area reaffirming that no project has been abandoned by the present administration.

PRESENTATION: Communications and Engagement Manager, GSK Consumer Nigeria Plc, Ms. Bolaji Sanyaolu; winner, Macleans Pimp My Bath Promo, Mr. Nelson Salami; Group Product Manager, Oral Healthcare, GSK Consumer Nigeria Plc, Mr. Yusuf Murtala; and Deputy Manager, National Lottery Regulatory Commission, Mr. Fashola Olumide, during the presentation of prizes to the Lagos winners of the Macleans Pimp My Bath Promo in Lagos.

Labour salutes Shagari at 90

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HE Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, has congratulated the former President, Alhaji Shehu Shagari for attaining the age of 90 years, saying that Shagari would be recorded as the first democratically elected President to sign into law the first national Minimum Wage Act in Nigeria.

Labour also commended President Goodluck Jonathan and the military for recording resounding victories against Boko

Work for PDP's victory, Elue tells party supporters SABA—FORMER deputy governor of Delta State and a member of the contact committee of Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Presidential Campaign Organization, Chief Benjamin Elue, has appealed to all aggrieved members of the party in the state to put their grievances aside and work for the success of the party in the forthcoming general elections.

Elue who gave the advice during an interactive session with journalists in Asaba also called on PDP members engaged in antiparty activities to retrace their steps, saying that “all hands must be on deck to deliver all PDP candidates in the election.”

On the PDP candidate for the Delta North senatorial district, Chief Elue described Chief Nwaoboshi as eminently qualified

victory for PDP in the forthcoming general elections.

Later at Chikun Local Government Area, Governor Yero also pledged his government’s readiness to provide more basic infrastructures to the people.

He recalled that the present

to represent the people of Delta North in the Senate saying that Nwaoboshi has exhibited exemplary leadership qualities in piloting the affairs of the party as the immediate past chairman of the party in Delta State.

He maintained that Nwaoboshi’s candidature had been collectively endorsed by the leadership of the party and all stakeholders in Delta North project and therefore urged the people of Delta North to vote for him and other PDP candidates during the election.

Elue particularly urged the youths not to allow themselves to beg used by selfish and desperate politicians to forment trouble during the election, saying as future leaders of the country they should work for the continued peace, unity and political advancement of the country.

Haram insurgents in several areas in Adamawa and Borno States in the last few days.

The Deputy National Chairman of the Congress and General Secretary of the Nigerian Textile Workers Union, Issa Aremu made this known in Kaduna.

He said that Shagari signed the Act during the tenure of the NLC founding President, Comrade Hassan Sunmonu, adding that the demand for a minimum national wage in 1981 led to a one- day national strike during the period. ‘’Labour joins other Nigerians and the global community to congratulate the elder statesman and former President of Nigeria, Alhaji Aliyu Usman Shehu Shagari on the occasion of his 90th birthday anniversary on Wednesday February 25, 2015. ‘’The recent national acknowledgement and celebration of the leadership qualities of former President Shagari shows that the problem with Nigeria may not necessarily be absence of leadership but lack of acknowledgement of some worthy leadership qualities of some of the leaders.

He reached a number of agreements with labour over wide range of issues that included minimum wage review, car and leave allowances, provident fund and decent work in general. It is to the eternal credit of Shagari’ tenure and his team (the notable being Alhaji Shehu Musa) that

there was only one national strike which lasted one day.''

APC reps candidate faces age, name falsification allegation

By Boluwaji Obahopo

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OKOJA—A citizen of Ajaokuta community in Kogi State, Isah Otori Haruna has asked a Kogi State High Court to disqualify the candidate of All Progressives Congress, APC, Lawal Muhammadu Idrisu from contesting election for the House of Representatives for Ajaokuta Federal Constituency due to alleged age and name falsification.

In an originating summons, Haruna said that Idrisu was not qualified to contest the general elections pointing out that Lawal Muhammed Idris which is the name he bears was different and distinct from Lawal Muhammadu Idrisu, submitted on his Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC C.F. 001 form and cannot be one and the same.

Haruna further stressed that the age given by Idrisu in the CF 001 form, filled and submitted to INEC, is in conflict with the declaration of age form submitted along with his documents.

FPSO EGINA STORAGE CONTRACT: Court adjourns till March 12

By Innocent Anaba

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AGOS—A Federal High Court sitting in Lagos, has adjourned till March 12, 2015, to decide which of the pending application to take first in the suit by a lawyer, Mr. John Owubokiri, challenging the award of the multi-million dollar contract for the controversial storage and offloading unit FPSO in Egina Field within OML 130, to Samsung Heavy Industry Nigeria Limited and Total Upstream Nigeria Ltd. Defendants in the suit are Attorney General of the Federation; National Petroleum Investment Management Services, NPIMS; Nigerian Content Development Monitoring Board, CDMB; Samsung Heavy Industry and Total Upstream.

Trial judge in the matter, Justice Okon Abang, had ordered the defendants to “maintain status quo ante bellum as per the plaintiff ’s claims before the court pending the hearing and determination of the motion on notice dated 19/11/2014.” But the plaintiff had at the last hearing in the matter, complained that work was still on-going on the contact,

despite the clear court orders.

At the hearing in the matter, counsel in the matter could not agree on which of the pending applications to be taken first, as counsel to the defendants reminded the court of the pendency of their preliminary objection.

But counsel to the plaintiff, Mr Olukayode Enitan, argued that the preliminary objection cannot be heard as it was filed out of time.

He argued that by the provision of Order 25, Rules 4 and 5, any preliminary objection filed out of time would be heard after trial. But counsel to the defendants argued that they were unable to file within time due to the judicial workers strike.

Enitan argued that even if that were to be the case, that they ought to have brought an application to file same out of time, which they failed to do, which was detrimental to the said preliminary objection.

Plaintiff counsel further told the court that an ex-parte application to bring the earlier order of the court, for same to be brought to the attention of the National Petroleum Investment Management Services, NPIMS; Nigerian Content Development Monitoring Board, CDMB; Samsung Heavy Industry and Total Upstream, was ripe for hearing.

48—Vanguard, TUESDAY, MARCH 3, 2015

RECEEPTION: Kwara State Governor, Dr. Abdulfatah Ahmed (right) presenting a certificate to one of the State winners of the National Qur'anic Competition, Haleemat Abdul-lateef, during the second edition reception at the Emir's palace in Ilorin. With them is the Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari.

D e p u t y Managing Director, Arik Air, Capt. Ado Sanusi (left) welcoming the n e w Commissioner of Police, A i r p o r t Command, Mrs. Dorothy Gimba, during her visit to Arik A i r l i n e corporate head office in Lagos.

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TOWN HALL MEETING: From left: Mr. Bolaji Abdullahi, former Minister of Sports, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, All Progressives Congress, APC, running mate to Gen. Mohammadu Buhari and Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, at a town hall meeting with Akwa Ibom youths in Uyo.

UNVEILING: From left: Mr. Opeyemi Oluwalusi, Zonal Regional Manager, NB Plc, Mr Hubert Eze, Regional Sales Director, Mrs Nnenna IfebighHemeson, Senoir Brand Manager, CSD & ACE, and Mr Moses Ogbodo, Regional Business Manager, NB Plc, and Mr Olayinka Bakare, Marketing Manager, NED, during the unveiling of Ace Root, a new product by Nigerian Breweries Plc in Lagos. Photo: Kehinde Gbadamosi.

PRESENTATION: From left: Territory Manager, South-West 2, Etisalat Nigeria, Oluwaseun Popoola, Dean, Student Affairs, Federal University of Technology, FUTA, Akure, Dr. Boniface Alese, 100 level FUTA Mechanical Engineering student, Onoriukpe Efemena, Manager, Youth Segment, Etisalat Nigeria, Idiareno Atimomo and Analyst, Events and Sponsorships, Etisalat Nigeria, Martina Ogbebor, during the presentation of the brand new car to Efemena, at the Etisalat Cliqfest held at FUTA, in Akure.

LAUNCHING: From left: Mai Atafo, Creative Director ,Mai Atafo Inspired, Betty Irabor, Editor-in-Chief, Genevieve Magazine, Jennifer Obayuwana, Executive Director, Polo Luxury Ltd, and Bola Balogun, MD, Glambrand Agency, at the Genevieve online launch, at Polo Avenue in Lagos.

LAUNCHING: From left: Mr. Ayoola Osunnaike, Director, BOLFYNG, Mr. Yinkan Sorinwa, Business Development Director, Mr. Kehinde Kassim, Director, and Kehinde Alliu, Director, during the medial launch of BOLFYNG E-Procurement platform in Ikeja, Lagos. Photo: Bunmi Azeez.

VISIT: Mr. Victor Omoregie, Corporate Communications/Protocol Manager, Vanguard Newspapers (2nd right) during a visit by teachers and pupils of ST &T Regency School, GRA Ikeja to Vanguard Media Ltd, Apapa, Lagos. Photo: Biodun Ogunleye.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, MARCH 3, 2015 — 49

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50—Vanguard, TUESDAY, MARCH 3, 2015

Arewa House advocates Northern Education Summit

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HE Arewa House of the Ahmadu Bello University, ABU, Zaria has advocated a special Northern Education summit to address the declining fortunes of the sector in the region.

Director of the House, Prof. Abdulkadri Adam who visited the National Teachers’ Institute, NTI, said lamented the downturn in education in Northern Nigeria and suggested that urgent steps be taken by both state and non-state actors in addressing the ugly trend.

Prof. Adam who was recently appointed as the Director of the Arewa House, informed that the House needed the expertise and professional know-how of the NTI in contributing to the e d u c a t i o n a l development of the North in particular and the country in general.

He noted that Northern Nigeria was facing grave challenges with the activities of elements that were antagonizing the education sector and that the region which was already disadvantaged could bear such retrogressive tendencies.

The Director acknowledged the success story of the NTI under the Dr. Aminu Ladan Sharehu led administration.

VISIT: From left— Senator Adegbenga Kaka; Mr. Eze Anaba, Deputy Editor, Vanguard Newspaper; Mr. Akin Odunsi, Ogun State Social Democratic Party, SDP, governorship candidate; his running mate, Prince Segun Adesegun; Mr. Olu Agemo, Chairman of the party; and Senator Olugbenga Obadara, during the team's visit to Vanguard in Lagos, yesterday. PHOTO: Akeem Salau.

Expert identifies highest cause of maternal mortality

By Suzan Edeh

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AUCHI—THE Medical Director of Pahlycon Hospital in Bauchi State, Dr. Hassan Mohammed Garba has said that a medical condition known as Postpartum haemorrhage, which causes excessive bleeding in women after child birth, accounts for the highest cause of maternal mortality rate in the country.

Garba, who spoke at a health programme tagged FM Health Guide, in Bauchi State, also said that the same condition accounted for over 60 percent of maternal mortality in northern Nigeria.

He listed factors responsible for excess

bleeding in women after delivery to include induced hypertension, maternal obesity, multiple pregnancy, maternal age (40 years and above) as well as induction of labour and fibroid surgery among others.

According to him, “when you talk of post-partum haemorrhage, there are questions one will have to ask.

“Is the uterus of the womb healthy or could it have undergone a surgical operation whereby there is a form of scan tissue inside it before pregnancy?”

“Secondly, the woman might have undergone Caesarean or surgery and before she could heal properly as prescribed by the doctor; she got pregnant very early.

“It is also possible that there is a fibroid already sitting in the womb, which after delivery, makes the womb not to be able to contract normally to close up the blood vessels that fills it. In this case the woman will continue to bleed.”

Garba further said that the danger of multiple delivery in women could lead to a weak womb whereby the muscles surrounding the uterus becomes too weak and this may trigger a burst of blood that may be uncontrollable.

He then asked pregnant women to go for regular antenatal services, check their blood level and eat healthy a diet to prevent excessive bleeding after

Don't leave, Kwara PDP begs Saraki

By Demola Akinyemi

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LORIN—THE Kwara State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, has appealed to the former senator, Gbemisola Saraki to shelve her rumoured bid to dumb the PDP for another party.

This is contained in a press statement issued by the state secretary, Barrister Hassan Razaq made available to journalists in Ilorin on Monday.

Vanguard checks revealed that the deliberate absence of Senator Gbemisola Saraki in the important events of the party in C M Y K

recent time lend credence to her alleged plan to dump the party.

Senator Gbemisola Saraki, the only female gubernatorial aspirant who came close third in the keenly contested primaries among other thirteen male aspirants was alleged to have been ridiculed out of the party because of her growing political profile.

The last straw that broke the camel back was the fifty thousand naira allegedly made available for her to mobilise her teaming supporters to the last visit of President Goodluck

Jonathan to Ilorin which she rejected and therefore stayed away from the event.

The secretary in the statement noted that, “Although we are relieved by the assurance that the rumour of the possible defection of Sen. Gbemi Saraki is false and unsubstantiated, nevertheless, we consider it expedient to implore Senator Saraki and her teeming supporters not to allow the voices of division to overwhelm them.”

The statement added that, “At this critical time in the life of our party in Kwara State, we

believe that all hands must be on deck to sustain the party and lead it to victory in the forthcoming polls.”

As a party, the statement stressed, “we believe Senator Gbemi Saraki has made invaluable contributions and sacrifices for the PDP in the state and beyond.

“We particularly noted her maturity and sportsmanship before, during and after the party primaries which produced distinguished Senator Simeon Ajibola as the party ’s governorship candidate.”

delivery.

The Bauchi State government recently distributed 75,000 doses of Misoprotol Oral to communities in the state to treat women with cases of excessive bleeding after child birth.

General elections 'll be peaceful —CLERIC

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HE General Overseer of Christ Mercyland Deliverance Ministries, Prophet Jeremiah Fufeyin, alias Owomowomo Fresh and Raw, of Warribased Mercy TV, has prophesied that “the forthcoming general elections scheduled for March 28 and April 11 shall be peaceful.”

Speaking during a programme monitored in Warri, Prophet Fufeyin said contrary to popular opinion, “Nigeria will not break, instead the nation will come out greater after the election.”

In a message entitled Control your Tongue, he advised Nigerians to have faith in God, “whose love for humanity is beyond what words can explain.”

It would be recalled that Fufeyin prophesied earlier in January that Boko Haram would be defeated.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, MARCH 3, 2015 —51

President Goodluck Jonathan presenting a certificate to a 2013 awardee, Olaniyi Olawoore at the event.

AWARD: President Goodluck Jonathan flanked by the 2012 overall winner, Justina Ikudehinbu (4th left); Vice President Namadi Sambo while the 2013 overall winner, Okpe Jacob (3rd right); 2014 Overall Winner, Ojii Chinenye (3rd left); Governor Godswill Akpabio of Akwa Ibom State (left); Chairman NYSC Board, Chief Gordon Bozimo (right); Youth Development Minister, Boni Haruna (2nd left) and the Director General NYSC, Brig. Gen. Johnson Olawumi during the cutting of a commemorative cake to mark the 2012-2014 President's NYSC Honours Award at the State House Conference Centre, Presidential Villa, Abuja, yesterday. Photos: Abayomi Adeshida.

Aggrieved JAMB candidates protest in Makurdi zSmash cars at Makurdi's office as Police arrest 50 were due to collect their

By Peter Duru

Minister urges Senate to pass bill against defilement of young boys

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zAs Mark urges NASS c’ttees to expedite actions on bills

By Johnbosco Agbakwuru & Joseph Erunke

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BUJA — MINISTER of Women Affairs and Youth Development, Hajia Zainab Maina, yesterday, told the National Assembly to expedite action on the passage of bill to stop impunity and cases of abuse and defilement of young males by trusted adults.

Already, the Senate President, David Mark, has urged the National Assembly Committees working on the bills on violence against persons to expedite actions on them, saying that the bills would go a long way in addressing ills in the society.

The Minister of Women Affairs and the Senate President spoke in Abuja at a public hearing organised by Joint Senate Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights and Legal Matters and Committee on Drugs, Narcotics and Financial Crimes.

The committees are working on the Alternative Dispute Regulatory Commission Establishment Bill; Violence Against Peoples Prohibition Bill; Mutual Assistance Criminal Matters Bill and Proceeds of Crime Bill.

According to the minister, the Violence Against Persons Prohibition, VAPP, Bill “ will stop impunity on the part of perpetrators of violence,” adding that, “cases of abuse and defilement of young males by trusted adults is expected to be addressed by this bill.

“Cases of administration of acid bath on partners in a fit

of jealousy will decrease to the barest minimum because the punishment recommended by the bill is enough to serve as a deterrent.”

She further explained that the bill encourages mutual resolution of marital conflicts by spouses without resorting to forceful eviction by either of the parties.

Maina said: “The nonpassage of the Violence Against Persons Bill has negatively impacted these vulnerable groups and has led to increased cases of gender-based violence being reported in the media.

“We want the Senate leadership to ensure that the "Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Bill be finally passed by this distinguished Assembly to ensure the safety of our babies, women, girls and young boys, especially domestic servants, the elderly and persons with disability everywhere in Nigeria.”

The minister also canvassed that cases of violence against women should be handled effectively while perpetrators must be promptly punished to serve as deterrent to offenders.

Bills will address ills in the society—Mark

The Senate President Mark, represented by Senator Ita Enang, said the bills will go a long way in addressing ills in the society and reiterate the respect for rule of law in the socio economic development of the nation.

Mark said: “It goes without saying that in any democratic setting where the rule of law is respected, investors will have the confidence to invest in that economy. In the same vein, it

also has the capacity to boost the image of the country in the eyes of the international community.

“On our part, we are poised to enact legislations that will stand the test of time. Hardly a second passes without a case of violence against persons being witnessed on our streets or recorded in Police stations."

AKURDI— AGGRIEVED Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board, JAMB, candidates, yesterday, besieged the Makurdi zonal office of the examination body, smashing vehicles and destroying valuables leading to the arrest of over 50 of them.

Vanguard gathered from an eyewitness that the aggrieved candidates

FUEL SCARCITY: PDP accuses APC of sabotage zIt's admission of failure by the ruling party —APC fuel marketers had taken a subBy Henry Umoru

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BUJA — PEOPLES Democratic Party, PDP, Presidential Campaign Organisation, PDPPCO, yesterday accused the All Progressives Congress, APC, of being behind the present fuel scarcity in the country, just as it accused the opposition of sabotaging Federal Government’s effort at ensuring that there was supply of Petroleum products.

The APC has, however, described the accusation as totally unconscionable, and indeed an admission of failure for a sitting government and ruling party to blame the opposition for their failings.

A statement yesterday by the Director, Media and Publicity, PDP Presidential Campaign Organisation, Chief Femi FaniKayode said the sudden fuel scarcity in many parts of the country was because the APC has infiltrated the ranks of the fuel marketers.

Fani-Kayode, who noted that

contract from the opposition to frustrate supplies of petrol to fuel stations as part of a grand plan to create tension in the polity, said: “We know who the fuel marketers are. We know the relationship that exists between one of the biggest fuel marketers and a national leader of the APC. "These unconscionable opposition elements infiltrated the ranks of the fuel marketers, whom they have contracted, in a calculated attempt to frustrate the good efforts of government.

APC reacts

In its response, the APC said the ruling party had simply abdicated its responsibility to the people andshould throw in the towel.

In a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, the party said: “The questions to ask are: who runs the NNPC? Who pays subsidy to fuel marketers? Who has used federal resources to bribe individuals and groups to such a level that there is no money to run the government, not to talk of paying subsidies?"

e-registration slips yesterday, preparatory to the commencement of the Computer-Based Test, CBT, on Saturday.

According to an eyewitness,“unfortunately while at the JAMB office, the candidates got impatient and resorted to engage some of the JAMB officials in a fisticuff which immediately escalated into a major crisis.

“Within minutes, the candidates who were in their hundreds took over Abu Shuluwa Road, making bonfire, throwing stones and smashing windows and cars parked within the office complex.”

Confirming the incident, the Benue State Zonal Coordinator of JAMB, Mr. Samuel Umoru, said the candidates were supposed to receive their e-registration slips ahead of Saturday ’s examination.

He said: “We were at the point of issuing the slips to them when they suddenly besieged the office, smashing and destroying our property for no reason whatsoever; if not for the quick intervention of the Police, the story would have been different.”

Contacted, the Benue State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Hyacinth Dagala said the over 300 candidates were asked by JAMB officials to wait for just one hour for the eregistration slips, but in protest they took the laws in their hands.

Dagala said the police officers who were later deployed to the office dispersed the candidates with teargas canisters, adding that over 50 of them were arrested.

52 — Vanguard, TUESDAY, MARCH 3, 2015

Group commends Afenifere, OPC, Yoruba leaders for endorsing President Jonathan

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OVE on Nigeria (MON) a Civic Action group promoting good governance, democracy and transformation agenda has commended Yoruba leaders, Afenifere and the Odua Peoples Congress for endorsing the re-election of President Goodluck Jonathan, noting that they have redeemed the image of the Yoruba nation as people who are truly progressive and believe in social justice. The group in a statement signed by its National Co-ordinator, Mr Clem Aguiyi then urged the younger generations to listen to the voice of the elders because the elders will not mislead them. ‘We praise the courage of the elders who for the sake of posterity took a patriotic stand for the love of the people and the nation knowing they have nothing to lose standing by the truth”, it said According to the group, “Pa Awolowo in his grave will feel fulfilled because the stand of the elders is the same stand he would have taken if he is still alive. Pa Awolowo wouldn’t have accepted slavery and injustice of any form because he is a man of equity and courage”.

The group praised the Yoruba elders for insisting on the full implementation of the confab report as a condition for their support to the president. It said “the Confab report as agreed by Nigerians is very important to the Yoruba nation and the rest of Nigeria. There is no way General Buhari who boycotted such an important national conference and refused to debate his vision for Nigeria will be interested in implementing the report.

A vote for Buhari will signal a death nail on the confab report and postponing the evil day for Nigeria. But President Jonathan if reelected will ensure that the report is fully implemented.

We are confident President Jonathan will win this election and will provide quality leadership that will usher in peace and stability.

The group further said the national confab was a significant achievement of the Jonathan administration, noting that “even heaven will not forgive President Jonathan if he didn’t implement the report which promises to usher in a new Nigeria where there will be peace, stability and prosperity”.

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BUSINESS ROUNDTABLE: From left; Bolaji Balogun, CEO, Chapel Hill Denham Group; Uaboi Agbebaku, Company Secretary/Legal Adviser, Nigerian Breweries Plc; Sesan Sobowale, Corporate Relations Director, Guinness Nigeria Plc; Adenike Laoye, Company Secretary, Ecobank Nig. Ltd and Cecilia Madueke: Company Secretary/Legal Adviser, Julius Berger Nig. Plc, during the recently-concluded 2nd DCSL company Secretaries roundtable and breakfast session in Lagos.

INEC okays use of military for polls

By Dayo Johnson

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HE Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, yesterday, lent its weight to the clamour for the use of military personnel during the forthcoming general elections, pointing out that their participation would “encourage more people to come out to vote as they would have some sense of security.''

The Ondo State Resident Electoral Commissioner, REC, Olusegun Agbaje spoke in Akure during a Town Hall meeting on non-violent electoral participation.

Justifying the use of military personnel, the REC noted that “higher number of people come out to vote when military personnel are used on election days because people feel a sense of security.

“Military personnel do not go to polling booths but only stationed to enforce the nomovement order.’’

Agbaje who responded to questions from participants during the meeting equally pointed out that some Permanent Voters Cards, PVCs, were not yet ready.

According to him “some PVCs were still being awaited from the INEC headquarters while others are yet to be collected by their owners.’’

He recalled the use of military personnel during the Osun and Ekiti election as good examples, pointing out that their presence “led to a successful outing.’’

According to him, “the electoral body is already considering how security personnel, observers and Nigerians abroad could be incorporated into the system so that they too could vote, probably on a special day.’’

He also, noted that the collaborative efforts of the Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) had assisted the Commission especially in the area of knowledge sharing workshops, voters and civic education among others.

IGBOBI COLLEGE OLD BOYS ASSOCIATION CELEBRATES: From left; Mrs. Kemi Awe, Mr. Ola Sofolahan, Mr. Femi Soremekun, Dr. Akinbo Ojo, Mr. Ike Nwokolo and Mrs. Elizabeth Abiodun during the 35th anniversary thanksgiving celebration of Igbobi College Old Boys Association (1975-80 Set) held in Shaddaiville, Lagos.

Prince of Owa Kingdom, Rotimi Obaigbena dies in US

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IS Royal Highness, the Obi of Owa, Efeizomor 11, has announced the death of a Prince of Owa Kingdom, Rotimi Azubuike Obaigbena in San Diego, California. Late Obaigbena died last Sunday.

A Certified Public Accountant, he was born in Ibadan, on July 27, 1958, attended Edo College, Benin City and Howard University, Washington DC. He is survived by his wife, Sheri, his mother, Margaret Obaigbena, brothers and sisters including Benjamin Obaigbena, Alan Glory Obaigbena, Isioma Ukwa ( Mrs), Nduka Obaigbena and Ogochukwu Aneke (Mrs). He will be buried in San Diego, California with a Commendation Service celebrating his life in Nigeria.

Meanwhile, the Newspapers Proprietors Association of Nigeria, NPAN has condoled the Chairman and Editor-in Chief of This Day Media Group/ Arise TV Networks, Mr Nduka Obaigbena on the death of his brother.

NPAN, in a statement signed by its General Secretary, Dame Comfort Obi said, “it is with utmost shock that we received the news of the death yesterday, February1, 2015, in San Diego, Califonia, of your brother, Rotimi Azubuike Obaigbena.

“A brilliant professional and Certified Public Accountant, the circumstance of his passage, which

was sudden, having died from a sudden brain aneurysm, made his exit more painful. First, the death came at such a young age, about five months to his 57th birthday.

He also left behind, an ever loving mother.

“Painful as it is, we are nevertheless, consoled by the fact that though he bowed out of life’s center-stage at such an unripe age, but he did leave behind visible imprints in the sand of time-

rising to the pinnacle of his well love profession as a Certified Public Accountant and in the process, touched several lives, positively.

“No doubt that he will be sorely missed. But be assured that our prayers are with you at this your moment of great loss. 'We shall continue to pray that God, in His infinite mercy, grant you, and all other members of the family left behind, the fortitude to bear the irrepairable loss.''

Branco-Rhodes urges Lagosians to reject APC at gov polls

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AGOS—LEADER of Free Lagos for Good Movement and PDP governorship aspirant, Mr. Akitoye BrancoRhodes has called on the people of Lagos State to reject the APC during the March 28 and April 11 general elections.

In a statement in Lagos, Branco Rhodes, said there was need to free Lagos from one person who is holding the state by the jugular.

He listed 10 reasons why the APC should be rejected, describing the APC government as antipeople and needed to be flushed out of Government House immediately because of its tyrannical activities. Rhodes stated: ‘How do you describe a government that imposes multiple taxation on the

people. How do you describe a government that takes sadistic pleasure in harassing petty traders and use KAI to extort money from hapless citizens.

The former governorship aspirant pointed out that apart from few urban centres where cosmetic projects were undertaken by APC government, most parts of the state are in bad state of decay, bad road, dilapidated structure that serve as schools, hospitals, health centres dot most of the rural and urban areas of the state.

Houses that were constructed which APC government described as low-cost houses were sold for millions of Naira which were not affordable to the masses, he said.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, MARCH 3, 2015—53

PRESIDENTIAL POLL: Benin Forum disowns Esogban over statement on Jonathan

By Gabriel Enogholase

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ENIN—THE Benin Forum, the sociocultural organisation of the Binis, has described the statement credited to its chairman and Esogban of Benin Kingdom, Chief David Edebiri that the Binis would not vote for President Goodluck Jonathan in next month’s presidential election as his personal opinion and not that of the forum.

A statement by the General Secretary of the Benin Forum, Mr. Henry Ogbodu, SAN, said the forum was nonpolitical and does not adopt any partisan posture whenever it articulates position on any issue, adding that its main function was to cater for the collective interests of the Binis.

He said that while doing this, “the core values and integrity of the Binis should not be compromised.”

He said: “The membership embraces all Bini people both at home and in the Diaspora irrespective of political or religious affiliations, but the functionaries at all material times are apolitical, in other words, they insulate themselves from partisan politics.

“A very significant part of

our function is to continue to work as an engine room in support and advancement of all activities of our collective heritage, the Benin monarchy.

“I recall vividly that Chief Edebiri, the Esogban of Benin Kingdom, who was appointed as the Chairman of the Benin Forum by His Majesty, the Oba

of Benin, was so appointed after his declaration that he was no longer in partisan politics.

“We, therefore, do not engage in the consideration of political discussion, let alone directing Binis to vote for either Mr. A or Mr. B. In any case, if we were to make such

political decision, it would have only been in support of the Oba’s endorsement which is well known to us.

“The statement credited to Chief Edebiri (our chairman) that the Binis will not vote for President Jonathan is personal to him and not that of the Benin Forum."

BURIAL: Former Deputy Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Mr. Nsima Ekere (middle), consoling his friend, Mr. Augustus Akpan (right), while Bishop Elkanah Hanson of El-Shaddai Bible Church, Port Harcourt, watches, during the burial of Akpan's wife, Comfort, in Uyo.

I’m in support of Obanikoro’s nomination, says Bode George

By Dapo Akinrefon

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FORMER Deputy National Chairman of Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, South-West, Chief Olabode George, has said that he was favourably disposed to the nomination and confirmation of Senator Musiliu Obanikoro, as a minister, adding that there was no rift between him and the erstwhile Minister of State for Defence.

Meanwhile, Lagos State chapter of the Goodluck/ Sambo Campaign Group has chided sponsors allegedly against the ministerial appointment of Senator Obanikoro, advising them to exercise restraint because power belongs to God. Reacting, yesterday, to reports that he, alongside some other PDP leaders in the state were reaching out to opposition lawmakers not to confirm his nomination, George, said whosoever was linking him with such move was not making sense and was only planning to divide the party.

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Speaking through his media adviser, Mr Uthman Shodipe, the PDP chieftain said he had nothing against Obanikoro, adding that the post-primaries crisis in the party had since been resolved.

He said: “The man (George) has been out of the country in the past two weeks and I’m wondering how and why any

right thinking person will link him with Obanikoro’s ordeal.

For the records, George has nothing against Obanikoro.

He comes around to greet Baba and we always meet at rallies. There is no crisis in Lagos PDP. The common goal is for us to take over Lagos and in all fairness, Obanikoro has been doing well for the

party and it will be a big leap for the party if he becomes a minister.

“Bode George is disposed to Obanikoro becoming a minister because it will help the party in the state and at the federal level. The opposition is not making sense. They only want to use divide and rule tactics but we

Shippers’ Council plans new measures regulator involving every for ports efficiency service provider in the port

By Ikenna Asomba

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HE Nigerian Shippers’ Council, NSC, has announced new measures that will reduce cost of doing business and achieve overall efficiency in the country’s ports.

Under this policy measure, the council has designed a template and standard tariff system that will ensure 30 – 40 percent reduction in tariff.

NSC is also establishing a new platform for every stakeholder to integrate.

In doing this, the council is

working with the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, and Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, so that every payment is reflected in the platform.

Part of the order is that every container arriving the nation’s ports will have to be scanned as they are being discharged from the ship before being moved away for stacking.

Executive Secretary of the Council, Mr Hassan Bello, who made this known, explained that the new port order was designed by the council as part of its statutory roles as the ports

system.

The platform, according to him, would be a command and control centre that will create a “nexus between all existing systems in the industry.”

Describing this as a means of integration, he said the idea was to make it easier for all stakeholders to benefit from what the council was doing.

He said that the new measure was for all stakeholders, including customs brokers and agencies involved in inspection, shipping companies and real infrastructure operators.

Pan-Delta group endorses Emerhor

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pan-Deltan group, Detribalised Deltans For Genuine Change, has endorsed Chief O’tega Emerhor of All Progressives Congress as its candidate for the 2015 governorship election in Delta State.

Addressing newsmen in Asaba, spokesman of the group, Mr Emma Nwosu, claimed that Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, had failed the state in 16 years of what he described as wasted opportunities and broken promises to the electorate.

He said: “What they call dividends of democracy in their party is actually dividends for their own pocket. PDP thinks that simply because it gave its ticket to Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, it has automatically captured Delta North. What we need now is someone with a brain who can turn the state around for the benefit of every Deltan.”

Edo APC candidate tasks electorate on vigilance

By Simon Adewale

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HEAD of the March 28 and April 11 re-scheduled general elections, candidate for All Progressives Congress, APC, for the Edo State House of Assembly, Mr Henry Okpamen, has advised the electorate to be vigilant and be prepared to make the necessary sacrifices if their votes must count to enthrone the desired change in Nigeria.

Addressing newsmen in Benin, Okpamen, a former Senior Special Assistant to Governor Adams Oshiomhole on Public Affairs, who is contesting to represent Esan North-East Constituency 2, Uromi, in the state House of Assembly, said this become necessary in view of the subterranean moves by the opposition to lay mines on the way of the Independent National Electoral Commission, lNEC, to subvert the process.

54—Vanguard, TUESDAY, MARCH 3, 2015

Emerhor assures Ndokwa on partnership

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HE governorship candidate of All Progressives Congress, APC, in Delta State, Chief O’tega Emerhor, has promised the people of Ndokwa nation greater and better political partnership if elected the governor in the forthcoming elections.

Chief Emerhor stated this in Afor, Ndokwa East area of the state during a visit to the Mr. Paul Enebeli-led pan-Ndokwa socio-cultural group, Ndokwa Neku Union, NNU, recently.

He said successive administrations in the state had marginalized the people of the three local government areas that make up Ndokwa, adding that it was what informed his decision to run a joint ticket with “one of the illustrious sons of the Ukwani speaking people, Dr. Amazia Otunyo.

The Urhobo-born politician said he had enough experience from the corporate world and politics capable of turning the state around in terms of bringing the beauties of democracy to bear on the people of the state, especially the downtrodden.In his remark, Mr. Enebeli said although NNU was apolitical, it would always support any candidate who takes the interests of Ndokwa people seriously.

He stated that the group was ready to play host to all the candidates for the general elections, noting that the programmes of the parties would determine its success at the polls.

Forum of former councillors endorse Maku for governorship

By Able Daniel

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AFIA—THE Forum of Former Councillors in Nasarawa State, yesterday, endorsed the candidate of All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA, former Minister of Information, Labaran Maku, for the April governorship elections.

The group, which comprises former councillors across the 13 local government from various political parties, who were sacked after the

administration of former Governor Aliyu Akwe Doma, and have embarked on legal battle to take back all their accrued allowances since their disengagement, have reposed confidence on Maku who have always supported them over the period in the legal battle.

In a communiqué read by the chairman of the forum and former Speaker from Awe, Hamisu Abubakar, in Akwanga after an interface with APGA governorship aspirant, echoed the need for

METTING: From left— Safurat Abdulkareem, Lagos State Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, deputy governorship candidate; Umar Nasko, PDP governorship candidate, Niger State; and Musiliu Obanikoro, former Minister of State for Defence, during a meeting with youth

by President Goodluck Jonathan in Lagos.

OVERNMENTS at all levels must devise and mete out strict punishment to those who destroy Nigeria’s natural resources through illegal logging, poaching, illegal grazing, encroachment of game and forest reserves and national parks.

This was the submission of Professor Adebisi Adeyemo, while delivering the 68th inaugural lecture at the Federal University of Technology, Akure, while speaking on Earth Without Biodiversity: What Would Have Been the Fate of Man? He outlined measures that

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experience that would restore the harmony and peaceful coexistence the state once enjoyed irrespective of religion and ethnic diversity.

It said: “Labaran Maku is a man with an undaunted record both in and outside the state. He is a tested and trusted politician who believes in the unity and prosperity of Nasarawa state.

“He has never been known to have failed in all the position he handle. Lets give him a chance this time again.”

Responding, Maku thanked the forum for their gesture and assured that if elected all their unpaid outstanding moneis since their disengagement will be paid them.

He urged the forum to see Nasarawa State beyond any political party, saying himself was fully in PDP, but now in APGA because it is not all about political party but the person who will restore peace and reunite the people.

He called on the group to remain focused in their pursuit for their right and the wellbeing of the state because according to Maku “we cannot take leave from our state to another state; we must work towards returning the state from the ruin of political, religious and ethnic sentiment.”

Reactions trail Jos, Kano bombings

By Marie-Therese Nanlong

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OS—REACTIONS have continued to trail the recent bomb attacks in Jos and the female suicide bombings in Kano, Potiskum, Gombe.

Recent reactions came from the member representing Jos South/Jos East in the House of Representatives, Mr. Bitrus Kaze, and a former Secretary to Plateau State government, Mr. Ezekiel Gomos.

According to Kaze, “the

military campaign against Boko Haram insurgents has of recent yielded huge successes, thanks to the new military hardware and the professionalization of the military by President Goodluck Jonathan’s administration.

“The recent visit to the war front by President Jonathan was a morale booster for our hitherto ill-equipped troops.

“Many Nigerian towns captured by the insurgents have already been retaken by our troops; we are very

FUTA makes case for ecosystem

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Maku to be elected to restore the peace and unity of the state once upheld, when he was the deputy governor of the state.

He expressed optimism that if Maku is elected, the state would be returned to its peaceful state and pave way for the sustainable development of the state.

The group, however, called on all people in the state to wave aside any political party affiliations and elect a candidate who has vast

could be taken to improve biodiversity to sustain human existence and survival of man and his environment.

He advocated intensification of Federal Government’s treeplanting campaign to improve afforestation; proper funding of forestry research institutes to enable them carry out their functions effectively; restriction on sale of wild animals on the street, with government agents seizing illegally-poached animals from the reserve areas.

Adeyemo also called on Nigerian universitiesto emulate foreign universities

whose campuses are beautiful, friendly and inviting.

This, according to him, will encourage and sustain the revolution of green environment and reduce damage that fuel and its components can cause.

In his remarks, FUTA’s ViceChancellor, Professor Adebiyi Daramola, represented by Deputy Vice Chancellor, Academic, Professor Adedayo Fasakin, described the lecturer as an erudite professor, who had contributed immensely to research and academic development in his field of specialization.

optimistic that Nigeria’s territorial integrity will be fully restored in no distant future.

“Now that the terrorists are being overpowered, they may return to guerrilla warfare tactics. As the rains begin and farming activities commence, we must all watch and pray against terrorist incursions, especially in the nights.

“I wish to call on citizens, especially in Jos and Plateau states in general not to be carried away by the successes of the military campaigns; Plateau remains their favourite target.

“I sympathize with and

condole the families, friends and well wishers of all the victims of the recent bomb blasts in the Bauchi Road area of Jos. May the good Lord grant them the fortitude to bear these gruesome losses.”

He charged the people to remain vigilant and take every precautionary measure to safeguard the lives and property of their individual households.

Similarly, the former SSG on behalf of the Conflict Management Regional Council, CMMRC, Plateau State, expressed sympathy to the people of Plateau State and Nigeria as a whole over the terrorists’ attacks that claimed the lives of innocent Nigerians.

1.4m students write UTME exam Monday

By Dayo Adesulu

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HE Joint Admission and Matriculation Board, JAMB, has said that the 2015 Unified Tertiary and Matriculation Examinations, UTME, will commence next week March 9, across the country.

Its Public Relations Officer, Mr. Fabian Benjamin, told Vanguard, yesterday: “All the

logistics for the examination have been put in place and the examination will start on March 9 across the 400 centres in the country.”

He explained that the examination will last for 10 days, adding that it will be rounded off on March 21.

“There are going to be breaks during the days, but the exams are going to run for 10 days,” he added.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, MARCH 3, 2015 — 55

By Monsur Olowoopejo

L

AGOS—GOVERNOR Babatunde Fashola of Lagos State, yesterday, warned the newly appointed permanent secretaries in the state civil service against corrupt practices, saying the government has zero tolerance for corruption.

Fashola, gave the warning, after the administration of oath of office and oath of secrecy on the 12 newly appointed permanent secretaries even as he cautioned them against nepotism and other acts capable of undermining the interest of the public they are called to serve.

According to the governor, the call to public service must never be seen as a means to benefit self at the expense of the generality of the people.

Fashola urged the permanent secretaries not to see their appointments as promotion but a call to leadership in their various ministries.

“Let me be very clear that this is not a promotion, it’s an appointment to lead, it’s a call to leadership. It is a very important call to leadership at a time when our societies, our communities, our nation and indeed the world face a serious leadership challenge.

“You will be expected to provide leadership in the various ministries that you will lead; as accounting officers, you are expected to have

Lagos gets 12 new permanent secretaries ...As Fashola warns against corrupt practices a firm grip of those ministries, departments and agencies that respond and report to you.” He said Fashola, also implored them to be faithful to the oaths they had taken to eschew corruption, even as he cautioned friends and families of the appointees not to mount undue pressure on them in a bid to get undue advantage over others at the expense of merit.

He explained that the appointment was based on merit, adding that many of them would not have made the list.

The governor, therefore, urged them to reciprocate the gesture in the discharge of their duties, stressing that the Civil Service in the state had been eradicating nepotism in public service which according to him had made the State Civil Service a role model in Nigeria.

“You swore before us and before God to eschew corruption. I think that in dealing with the problem of corruption in our country, we focus on the monetary side of it; if you look at the definition of corruption, it is not just an illegal act for pecuniary purpose, it is also

gaining undeserved and undue advantage and these are things that you must avoid.

“If I did not avoid them, you probably would not have become Permanent Secretaries, we have appointed you on merit.

“The Civil Service of Lagos State has been dealing with

these challenges on a day to day basis and that is why this is the Civil Service to beat in the whole Federal Republic” he affirmed.

The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Home Affairs and Culture, Mrs. Grace Oladimeji, who spoke on behalf of other appointees pledged to live by the

oaths they took to ensure fairness in the discharge of their duty.

The new appointees includeDeji Adenekan, Joseph Adediran, Dr. Longe Rotimi, Ogunmola Modinat, Ebunola Oladimeji, Architect Dipe and Folashade Onabolu.

Others are Salami Mabayoje, Sanusi Adewole, Soname Abosede, Umar Sukura, Ogunnaike Oluwatosin.

REQUIEM MASS: Former Governor of Anambra State and the Deputy Director General of the Jonathan's Presidential Campaign Organisation, Mr. Peter Obi amidst the congregation at the requiem mass for late Bishop of Aba, Bishop Vincent Ezeonyia at the Christ the King Cathedral, Aba.

Group faults Obakponovwe, others on UPU crisis

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FFURUN—THE Urhobo Patriotic Alliance, a socio-cultural group in Delta Central has condemned the advertorial released under the name of the Forum of Presidents General of the Urhobo 24 Kingdoms that was published at page17 of the Vanguard of Monday, March 2, 2015.

In a press release made available to newsmen in Effurun yesterday, the group, through its Director of Publicity, Mr. Oruru

Ariyor, condemned both Dr. Peter Obakponovwe and Sir. Kenneth Iwhewhe for issuing a statement which according to it is at utter variance with the overwhelming opinion of the Urhobo people they claim to be leading.

He said: “What is happening in Urhobo today is just too shameful to bear.

To imagine that men we the youths had always looked up to for leadership can be compromised by Aso Rock through Ogboru, Omene and Omo-Agege is a complete disappointment to us. We are genuine patriotic Urhobos and no matter the billions they keep bringing from Abuja to share, we refuse to compromise the honour of the Urhobo nation and will never sell our birthright for a mess of porridge like Esau who allowed greed and hunger to becloud his sense of judgment.”

The group insisted that Chief Tuesday Onoge is the only authentic leader of the Urhobo Progress Union, UPU, and that Olorogun Otega Emerhor remains their one and only candidate.

“No matter the monetary inducement from Aso Rock, an Ijaw man, no matter how highly placed will never dictate to the Urhobos who to vote for, who to follow or who to look up to. Even though the Ijaws have always been our brothers and sisters, any Urhobo man who succumbs to monetary inducement for the betrayal of the Uvwiamuge Declaration is a traitor. ''With elders doing the unthinkable while youths are waxing strong for the unity of Urhoboland under the able leadership of Onoge, we enjoin every genuine Urhobo patriot to pray fervently for the future of our noble race, “ he said.

56 — VANGUARD, TUESDAY, MARCH 3 , 2015

BRIEFS Iraq seizes districts from ISIS in Tikrit

Netanyahu says Iran deal threatens Israel’s security T

HE Israeli prime minister has delivered a speech before America’s largest pro-Israel lobby, to make a case against a nuclear deal the Obama administration is negotiating with Iran.

Benjamin Netanyahu spoke to members of the American Israel Pubic Affairs Committee (AIPAC) in Washington DC on Monday, telling attendees that the deal is a threat to Israel’s security.

“Iran is the foremost state sponsor of terrorism in the world,” he said, as he warned against Iran “developing” a nuclear weapon.

“As prime minister, I have a moral obligation to speak up in the face of these dangers while there is still time to avert them.”

Israel fears that US President Barack Obama’s Iran diplomacy, with an end-of-March deadline for a framework accord, will allow Iran to develop atomic weapons, something the country denies seeking.

Netanyahu made the speech, a day before he is to deliver a similar address before the Republican-controlled US Congress.

By accepting an invitation from the Republican Party to come to the US

and address the opposition-controlled Congress on Tuesday, Netanyahu angered the Obama administration.

He has described his trip to the US as a “historic mission.”

A senior Israeli official said on Netanyahu’s flight that Congress

could be “the last brake” for stopping a nuclear deal with Iran.

Also addressing the 16,000 AIPAC delegates are Samantha Power, the US ambassador to the UN, and Susan Rice, national security adviser, who last week criticised Netanyahu’s

INA Pham, a nurse at Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Dallas, filed a lawsuit Monday against the hospital’s parent company, Texas Health Resources.

“I was hoping that THR would be more open and honest about everything that happened at the hospital, and the things they didn’t do that led to me getting infected with Ebola,” she said in a statement. “But that didn’t happen and I felt I was left with no choice but to turn to the courts for help.

According to the suit, the hospital chain failed to provide proper equipment and training to handle Ebola. Pham contracted the disease last fall while treating Thomas Eric Duncan, who started showing symptoms

RAQI government forces say they have retaken some districts around Tikrit in their fight to recapture the city from Islamic State (IS).

A force of about 30,000 troops and militia are said to be attacking on different fronts, backed by air strikes from Iraqi jets.

A commander of Iran’s Revolutionary Guards is taking part in the operation, a Shia militia commander told the BBC. Tikrit, north of the capital Baghdad, fell to IS militants last June.

Security sources told the BBC that pro-government troops had seized control of the two districts of alTin, near Tikrit university north-east of the city, and the district of alAbeid, in the west.

Earlier, fighting was also reported in al-Dour, south-east of Tikrit, as well as in al-Alam, north of the city, and nearby Qadisiya.

There were few details of the operation but army and medical sources were quoted as saying that five soldiers and 11 militia fighters had been killed.

Russia shooting: Model fears she’ll be implicated

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•Iraqi army, along with Sunni and Shiite militiamen, who attacked ISIS strongholds yesterday

ISIS supporters threaten Twitter founder

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ELF-IDENTIFIED ISIS supporters have made online threats against Twitter founder Jack Dorsey and other Twitter employees for shutting down accounts that promote ISIS. In a post on anonymous forum justpaste.it, the group drew an illus-

tration of Dorsey in crosshairs. The Arabic message that follows contains several death threats.

Claiming that Dorsey and Twitter have started a “ war ” against the Islamic State, the group said the “necks” of Twitter employees have “become an official target

Texas nurse who contracted Ebola sues hospital

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upcoming speech as “destructive” to the US-Israeli relations.

“The United States will not allow Iran to obtain a nuclear weapon, period,” Power said ahead of Netanyahu’s speech.

“There will never be a sunset on America’s commitment to Israel’s security.”

I

after arriving in Dallas from Liberia.

Pham’s lawsuit also says Texas Health Resources violated her privacy by sharing her medical records.

According to The Dallas Morning News, Pham wants unspecified damages for physical pain, mental anguish, medical expenses and loss of future earnings.

But she told the newspaper that she wants to “make hospitals and big corporations realize that nurses and health care workers, especially frontline people, are important. And we don’t want nurses to start turning into patients.”

Texas Health Resources spokesman Wendell Watson issued a statement in response to the lawsuit:

“Nina Pham bravely served Texas Health Dallas during a most difficult time. We continue to support and wish the best for her, and we remain optimistic that constructive dialogue can resolve this matter.”

Pham is still employed and is getting a paycheck from Texas Health Resources, but has not returned to work, CNN affiliate KTVT said. She is still suffering fatigue and body aches, but her lawyer told the affiliate it’s not clear whether the ailments are from Ebola or from the experimental drugs Pham received.

“The fact is, I’m facing a number of issues with regard to my health and my career and the lawsuit provides a way to address them,” Pham said in her statement.

to ISIS soldiers and supporters.”

Twitter’s terms of service forbid hate speech, threats and posts that promote terrorism. The social media site has actively tried to take down accounts tied to ISIS, particularly after Anonymous hacktivists took it upon themselves to block access to terrorist websites and social media profiles.

In its post, the group said it would “silence Dorsey’s breath.”

Twitter (TWTR , Tech30) said it is working to confirm whether the threats are serious.

“Our security team is investigating the veracity of these threats with relevant law enforcement officials,” a spokesman for Twitter said.

HE Ukrainian girl friend of slain Russian opposition leader Boris Nemtsov faces constant psychological pressure from Moscow authorities and fears she will be implicated in his death, her mother told CNN. Model Anna Duritskaya, 23, was walking with Nemtsov on Friday night when a gunman shot the politician about 100 meters (330 feet) from the Kremlin.

“She was crying and she was saying Boris had been killed and he’s lying next to me,” said her mother, Inna Duritskaya. “She was in such shock she couldn’t say any-

thing else.”

Duritskaya said her daughter was questioned until 2 a.m. Monday. She said she fears authorities will implicate her daughter in the death because they have threatened to take her attorney away from her.

The model is now staying at the apartment of an aide to Nemtsov under constant police guard.

Ukraine’s Foreign Ministry has requested that Anna Duritskaya be allowed to return to Ukraine, the Russian news agency Tass said.

Kerry cautions Israel not to undercut Iran, as talks resume

U

S Secretary of State John Kerry quietly cautioned Israel not to undercut Iran nuclear negotiations that resumed on Monday as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu prepared to make the case against his diplomacy before the U.S. Congress.

Kerry and Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif held the first of what could amount to three days of meetings in the Swiss lakeside town of Montreux about restraining the Iranian nuclear program in exchange for relief from economic sanctions.

The two men, along with U.S. Energy Secretary Ernest Moniz and Iranian atomic energy chief Ali Akbar Salehi, shook hands and then met for about 50 minutes late on Monday afternoon.

Both sides postured in advance and suggested the other would be to blame if the talks fail to meet an end-March deadline, for a framework accord, with Kerry saying Iran must be prepared to compromise and Zarif calling for the total lifting of sanctions imposed on the Islamic Republic as part of any final deal.

Twitter: law enforcement investigate alleged ISIS threats

T

WITTER Inc and law enforcement authorities are investigating alleged threats made by Islamic State militants against the social media network’s co-founder and other employees, the company said in reaction to media reports.

Islamic State supporters, in online posts on Sunday, called for attacks against Twitter and its “interests,”

including death threats, according to the online news media company Buzzfeed as well as the NBC news network.

“Our security team is investigating the veracity of these threats with relevant law enforcement officials,” a representative for Twitter said in a statement on Monday. Buzzfeed first reported the story on Sunday.

One alleged threat was directed to Twitter cofounder Jack Dorsey, NBC reported. Dorsey didn’t address or acknowledge the threats in his latest tweets on Sunday.

The messages were posted on an anonymous file-sharing website called Pastebin, according to the media reports.

VANGUARD, TUESDAY, MARCH 3, 2015 — 57

Mo Ibrahim prize: Namibia President gets $5m award T HE outgoing Namibian President Hifikepunye Pohamba has won the world’s most valuable individual award, the Mo Ibrahim prize for African leadership.

The $5m (£3.2m) award is given each year to an elected leader who governed well, raised living standards and then left office.

But the previous award was the fourth in five years to have gone unclaimed.

Mr Pohamba, a former rebel who fought for his country’s independence, has served two terms as Namibian president.

He was first elected in 2004, and again in 2009. He is due to be succeeded by President-elect, Hage Geingob.

Salim Ahmed Salim, the chairman of the committee that awarded the prize, said that under Mr Pohamba, Namibia had cemented its reputation as “a wellgoverned, stable and inclusive democracy with strong media freedom and respect for human rights”.

A statement from the

Medecins Sans Frontiers Ebola treatment centre at Donka Hospital in Conakry Namibian presidency said Mr Pohamba was “humbled by this gesture”.

According to the statement, the president hoped to use the prize to advance the objectives of the Hifikepunye Pohamba foundation, which helps students from disadvantaged backgrounds to pursue higher education.

Mr Pohamba was a founding member of the South West Africa People’s Organisation (Swapo), an armed movement that waged a decades-long campaign against South

African rule.

Since the country won independence in 1990, Swapo has dominated politics, usually winning huge majorities in elections.

Before becoming president, Mr Pohamba served as a minister for land affairs. He oversaw a scheme under which some land that had been owned by white farmers since the colonial era was bought by the government, for redistribution to black farmers.

Libya names Haftar as army chief

A

controversial antiIslamist, General Khalifa Haftar, has been named head of the Libyan army.

Libya’s internationally recognised government controls only a small part of the country, with

Tripoli controlled by rivals Libya Dawn.

The country has been blighted by fighting between the factions, as well as attacks by jihadist groups.

Gen Haftar launched Operation Dignity last

•Hafta

year, a self-declared war on Islamists in the city of Benghazi.

On Monday there were reports of fighting between Haftarcontrolled troops and Islamists in the city.

The former general is a divisive figure amongst Libyans. He has drawn praise for attempts to bring order to the chaos in the country but criticism for his aggressive use of force, including air strikes.

His critics say he targeted both moderate and hardline Islamist groups in the east, which further radicalised some people, according to BBC Libya correspondent Rana Jawad.

South Sudan to question Shilluk leader over abductions

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OUTH Sudan’s army says it has demanded an explanation from the leader of an allied militia accused of abducting hundreds of boys from school.

Army spokesman Col Philip Aguer told the BBC the leader of the Shilluk militia, Johnson

Oloni, has been summoned over the reported abductions.

Hundreds of boys were captured by the militia this month to be used as child soldiers, according to the UN. South Sudan says it does not directly control the Shilluk militia.

Mr Oloni was made a

major general in the South Sudanese army as part of an amnesty in 2013. However, his forces have never been fully integrated into the military. For more than a year, the South Sudanese army and allied militias have been fighting rebel groups loyal to former Vice-President Riek Machar.

Ebola and Africa’s medicine men

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N Guinea, a land where witchcraft is sought for curing illness more than science, medicine men say the Ebola epidemic would have been over by now had they been properly included in the outbreak response.

From broken bones, to impotence, to madness, these traditional healers say they have a potion, spell or touch for many ailments Western doctors can’t treat.

But there’s only one cure for Ebola they say knowledge.

In the forest region of southeastern Guinea, where the virus was detected last March, disseminating information using modern technology has proved challenging.

Karamoko Ibrahima Fofana, president of the association of traditional healers in the town of Macenta, said guérisseurs, as they are known, have unique access to remote villages.

“Guérisseurs are often the first port of call for the sick,” said Fofana, 69, who is also an imam at the central mosque in Macenta, a hot, dusty town carved out of the forest.

“We could have spread information on how to protect against Ebola or told people with symptoms to seek help in the treatment centres.”

Instead, the traditional healers were sometimes accused of spreading the deadly virus.

After all, it was the claim of a guérisseur in Sierra Leone that she could cure Ebola that drew the first Guinean victims across the border, Fofana recalled.

Ebola has infected more than 23,000 people in West Africa and killed about 9,000, nearly all in the three worst-affected countries of Guinea, Liberia, and Sierra Leone.

It is transmitted through blood, vomit, diarrhoea and other bodily fluids.

Health officials are exploring ways to prevent similar disease outbreaks around the world, with epidemics expected to be a focus at a global conference on risk reduction in Japan later this month.

Fofana admits the guérisseurs in his association didn’t know what Ebola was at first, but after training from United Nations staff they were

keen to spread information - and not the virus. ‘’If a guérisseur has been trained on Ebola and is then caught treating a suspected case, they are fined 50,000 GNF ($7), stripped of their membership, and reported to the police,” he said.

Jean Marie Dangou, head of the World Health Organization (WHO) in Guinea, said the “Stop Ebola” campaign, based on modern communication technology, had all but failed.

“For about one year the main communication strategy was built around media, mainly radio and TV, but it wasn’t successful.

The country is still dealing with tough and repetitive resistance,” Dangou said.

West Africa has recorded some weekly declines in new confirmed cases of Ebola since the start of 2015, but resistance in some communities has undermined efforts to end the epidemic.

The main message from this outbreak is that communication must be adapted to fit the local culture, Dangou said.

Word of mouth may be a better way of getting information out than modern methods in parts of the world where broadcast signals are weak and power for electrical appliances is scarce.

“Lessons learned from Ebola in Guinea can be applied to cholera, malaria or any other infectious disease in other parts of the world that rely on an oral tradition,” Dangou added.

At the start of the outbreak, traditional healers were viewed as part of the problem, rather

than being recruited to help halt the disease. Our communication was top down and the way we delivered the messages was wrong. We told people to stop doing things without explaining why,” Dangou said.

In a shift in policy, community leaders, including healers, are given information and asked to act on it as they see fit. As a result, many have appropriated the “Stop Ebola” messages.

Traditional healers are also supplementing disease surveillance and helping response teams that search for cases.

“Most traditional healers are now aware of the risk of treating Ebola patients. More and more patients are coming to health facilities after a referral from their healer,” said Dangou.

Given their important role in efforts to stamp out Ebola, the services of traditional healers should come at a price, said Joseph Souro Mamadouno, 58, a Catholic guérisseur from Macenta.

“Ebola is here today, but it could be cholera tomorrow. We can spread health messages, but the government should cover costs of transport, food and the time we take off work,” said Mamadouno, who also works at the local agriculture school.

According to the healers’ association, some 2,000 herbal practitioners in Macenta, a district with a population of about 300,000 close to the Liberian border, are out of pocket as a result of the Ebola response.

Police, civilians wounded in Cairo bomb blast

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midday bomb blast in one of the busiest boulevards in Cairo’s business district has wounded nine people, according to police.

Shortly after Monday’s explosion, a little-known group claimed responsibility for the attack.

The bomb was hidden under a car parked near the High Court - the country’s highest criminal court - and went off in Cairo’s Ramses neighbourhood.

The area is very crowded, with dozens of street vendors

selling their ware on stalls set up on the asphalt.

Nearby are several bus stops, a railway station and a subway station.

Egyptian private The Seventh Day TV broadcast footage of the site, showing hundreds of onlookers around cars with smashed windows and blood on the pavement.

Police cordoned off the area and state TV later reported that a second bomb was dismantled before it went off.

58—Vanguard, TUESDAY , MARCH 3 , 2015

Give us good governance Dear sir

G

OOD governace is a government which does no harm to its citizens but gives them security and prosperity.

Nigeria is presenting experiencing a system that is run on Machiavellian principles; throw caution to the wind and give the citizens a ‘perfect’ example of greed, deceit, robbery and homicide.

Politicians across the country have been busy scheming and permutating for their re-election thereby leaving governance to suffer. Some of them have not been seen in their various constituencies in the past four years but are back now distributing Motor cycles, grinding machines,generators and Five hundred Naira to thugs to hail them during campaigns. This is not the type of

Uduaghan’s score card Dear sir

I

N our society a man who holds public office or any office of trust as the case may be is never appreciated until perhaps he leaves office when his work and achievements begin to speak.

Sadly this is the circumstance the governor of Delta State, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan finds himself today. While his developmental strides which are visible dots the length and breadth of Delta State, some persons who have probably resolved not to see anything good he does are at the forefront dismissing and belittling his achievements.

The truth is, whether Gov. Uduaghan critics choose to appreciate his ample achievements or not, the fact is that his people oriented programmes, policies and developmental efforts will eternally be remembered by Deltans, living and yet unborn. Gov. Uduaghan well articulated programmes and policies have effectively touched on the lives of Deltans. From his free education policy, free maternal health care for nursing mothers and children below the age of five, to his effective and highly subsidised transport service, micro credit scheme, to the massive renovation of public primary and secondary schools to world class standard, Asaba Airport, to his urban renewal project in most towns and cities in the state speak volume of his unparallel achievements.

We may perhaps agree that the governor though not perfect, but his policies and programmes are among the best managed and executed in the country. This indeed represents the plethora of awards he has received from different reputable institutions both within and outside the shores of the country. There is no gainsaying that Gov. Uduaghan’s only sin against his detractors and critics is the fact that he choose to be careful with the state finances as against his predecessor who allowed his cronies unfettered access to state’s treasury.

The question is can those at the forefront criticising the governor today say they have not benefitted from his policies and programmes, whether directly or indirectly? Perhaps if they have not benefitted directly, their relatives have.

There is no doubt that Gov. Uduaghan has indeed performed creditably well and the least we can do as Deltans is to appreciate him rather than castigating him!

Eugene Adaji, Sapele, Delta State.

08127029122 or 08166077222

campaign we seek.

I have travelled to several states in the country, and in each of the states visited, it is non payment of teachers’ salary and infrastructural decay. While in others, state ministries and parastatals are shut down because the ‘Ogas at the top’ are in Abuja or in one part of the state or country holding series of political meetings lavishing funds meant for development projects. I am sure the founding fathers of the country would turn in their graves when all these are brought to their attention.

The general elections comes up March 28 and April 11, the political space is charged, re-defined and properly ringed for the fight of the titans. One is afraid of being the first incumbent president to be defeated and the other already claims victory for an election that is yet to be conducted he says: ‘Iam going to inherit an empty treasury’. Smacks of too much confidence, if you ask me. Irrespective of politicians schemes and antics , all we ask is good goverance.

Sunday Alifia, Ibadan, Oyo state.

08035850876

Youths par ticipation in participation politics Dear sir INCE the Arab Awakening, many youths in developing countries, like Nigeria have remained politically active.Opportunities for youth to engage in governance and participation in political and decision making processes depend largely on the political, socioeconomic, and cultural contexts where social norms in many parts of the country result in multiple forms of discrimination against young people.

Both formal and informal engagement can be understood as political participation, and both are beneficial for a vivid and resilient democracy and should be supported. In Delta, there is strong evidence that the participation of young people in formal, institutional political processes is relatively low when compared to older citizens. This challenges the representatives of the political system and leads to the disenfranchisement of young people.

Certain commentators have similarly alluded to the fact that, people under the age of 35 `are rarely found in formal political leadership positions. In a third of countries, eligibility for the national parliament starts at 25 years or higher and it is common practice to refer to politicians as ‘young’ if they are below 35-40 years of age. In Delta, youth is not represented adequately in formal political institutions and processes such as Parliaments, political parties, elections, and public administrations.

The situation is even more difficult for both young women as well as women at mid-level and decision-making/ leadership positions.

Instructively for the People’s Democratic Party ’s gubernatorial candidate, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa readiness to address the lopsided youth participation in politics/decision-making is well known in the State.

TIDI, Member, Media/Publicity Committee, Delta State PDP Campaign Organization,Warri., Delta State.

08037114154.

S

FG negotiation with Boko Haram sect THE Federal government should forget about any negotiation with Boko Haram and declare a full scale war on the sect. The sect is playing on Nigerians’ collective intelligence and giving us the impression that its members are invincible. Enough is enough, this is the right time for the government to act and put an end to the terrible activities of these terrorists that have chosen to continue to shed blood to propagate their religious belief.

Chukwuma Dioka. Imo State.

08063286727.

FG and Boko Haram’s fake ceasefire

Indeed, it was a curious peace deal.

Less than 24 hours after the peace deal announced by the federal government to the joy of the Northerners, killing and abducting scores and rendering several others homelessbecame the order of the day. Any serious government is not expected to enter into a deal as important as this and go to sleep, as done by our federal government. It is unfortunate.

Dozie Orji, 08034944060

IGP and withdrawal Tambuw al’s police aides ambuwal’s

of

Tambuwal’s ordeal over his defection to APC is just politics. I am quite sure that if he were to be an APC Speaker who defected to PDP, certainly there would be no brawl over it. So, the aggrieved PDP members including the presidency that went hell- bent on his removal as speaker and frustrating him should know that he has a right to decide which party to join.

Uduebor Osaro. +2348059826021

al’s ambuw Still on IGP and TTambuw ambuwal’s police aides

The Inspector General of Police displayed rascality associated with the Nigerian Police Force by hastly withdrawing the security details of Speaker Tambuwal simply because he left PDP for APC. If it were to be in a more civilised country, the IGP, whom I believe is a lawyer, would have advised the presidency on the right step to take. The display of federal might may change little in Tambuwal’s latest political episode.

U. Desmond.+2347061933595

Still on TTambuw ambuw al’s def ection ambuwal’s defection

I think is morally wrong for Tambuwal to have moved to another party now, particularly when it was PDP that gave him the opportunity to be speaker of House of Representa-

tives. For me, since this is the first time a sitting speaker defected to another party while in office, a bad precedent has been set. And until the right steps are taken to correct this anomaly, it will continue.

Barr Anthony Obi. 2348056009586

On 2015 general elections

Where are the EFCC and ICPC? Dead or alive? Nigerians we must vote Jonathan out of power come 2015 if we are really serious. Jonathan failed us completely! Look at the level of corruption(99%), insecurity(99%), unemployment(99%)non availability of electricity(90%), infrastructural decay (95%), inflation(85%) etc with all these troubles on our necks, how can we give our mandate to him?Why must we deceive ourselves?Nigerians should be extra careful come 2015 and vote wisely otherwise, we are going to regret it.

Shehu Usman, Abuja. +2348095898769

Delta state stolen mandate

From the publication of some governorship aspirants of PDP, in Delta state in Vanguard newspaper of 13/ 11/14, page 12, that stated that the out- going Governor of Delta state did not get up to 10,000 votes shows he goveerned with a stolen mandate.

The Supreme court should take note of this comment and do the needful.

Peter 2347061158706

2015 elections and distribution of PVC by INEC Kudos to Vanguard for allowing its readers to express themselves their opinions! I implore INEC to hasten up on the distribution of PVCs in Lagos since its less than a month to the general elections to avoid rush and tail end distribution as witnessed in other states .

Udofot Toby Umana, Lagos. +2348129938064

Full implementation budget

of

As long as the recurrent expenditure exceeds capital expenditure, full budget implementation remains impossible.

If this style of expensive democracy continues, Nigeria will never get to the promise land. The prevailing free fall of crude oil price, is already hurting Nigerian’s finances! Let’s exploit other minerals resources and stop these jumbo salaries that is been paid to NASS and politicians. With austerity measures starring us in the face, Nigerians should say no to waste.

Anonymous

SAYINGS OF OUR ELDERS The game of life is that of boomerangs. Our thoughts, deed and words return to us sooner or later. Be kind to get kindness in return.

Simon Adewale08056180103, Send us your Sayings of Our Elders. They must be African sayings or proverbs. Biblical or English proverbs are unacceptable.

Address your sayings to: The Co-ordinator, Sayings of Our Elders,Vanguard Media Ltd., PMB 1007, Apapa,

59 — Vanguard, TUESDAY, MARCH 3, 2015 YOUR LUCK TODAY

LEISURE

THOUGHT FOR TODAY

By Joshua Adeyemo Phone 08056180139 TAURUS: Opposition between the Moon and Pluto may induce personality clashes you don=t need at lest for now.

What can help you now is love and your being persuasive.

Think of the future.

GEMINI: Positive events that started yesterday will continue today. Rely more on your ability to be as bold as necessary so that you can get things done your own way at work.

CANCER: Good luck will smile at you. Romantic interlude that started last yesterday may become excitingly louder and melodious to the satisfaction of your soul.

LEO: If you allow domestic pressure to affect your working pattern, your senior colleagues may not understand and make things a bit more difficult. IF you=re stable, you will have more to gain financially.

VIRGO: After snappy aggressive approach exhibited by you yesterday ,you are back at your being pleasant self to the admiration of others. This is the wrong time to take law and it=s agents for granted. Youngs-at-heart are favoured so also commercial activities.

By Richard Eromosele

A

deadline is the time within which we must do something. It is the time we have to do what we have chosen to do or what we are expected to do or compelled to do.

Unfortunately, most people associate deadline with

Giving yourself a deadline journalism. This should not be.

Everyone that aspires to be somebody in life must imbibe the practice of deadline.

The major difference between a mere wish and a goal is that a wish is an open cheque that

TERROR MUDA

has no definite time for it to be cashed whereas a goal has time frame for its execution. But for fear of failing, most people will gladly set deadline for attaining their goal. Be a sportsman. Be sincere to yourself. If you have

in “Never say goodbye”

given everything and you still couldn’t meet up with your deadline, adjust it forward.

In everything, set a deadline for yourself.

Just be sincere. No body will kill you for not meeting up with your deadline.

By Lanre Kehinde

LIBRA: Some of you will wake up from slumber and realise mistakes about your finances early enough and make amendment but those who are reckless will commit more blunder. Beware of joint venture.

SCORPIO: Although erratic people from unexpected quarters may oppose you openly, your being self assertive will earn you both victory and financial success. Then tomorrow will prove more successful.

SAGITTARIUS: The more ambitious you are the better for you.

Then you will need to ignore those with queer characteristics within your working arena.

CAPRICORN: Mixed trends are indicated. If you take good advice from your cool headed friends, you will benefit more than you imagine, but if you take to unpredictable attitude, you will today start fire that will burn with great intensity tomorrow.

AQUARIUS: If you take the veterans within your base for granted, they will fail you painfully. Yet here is a lucky day for you when your being secretive and self reliant will earn you success. Be more ambitious.

KAPTAIN AFRIKA

in

“Pretty Lunatic’

By Andy Akman

PISCES: Some of the people around you may get on your nerve via careless remarks, you must not allow them to disorganise your plans. The closer you are to the influential people the better for you.

ARIES: AMoney is the root of all evils@ says an adage. And if care is not taken, money may set you and some other people fiercely against each other to the detriment of your cause. Be cautious.

ASTROLOGICAL COUNSELLING Send yyour our dat th ttoo the As tr ological datee and place of bir birth Astr trological Counselling, PP.M.B .M.B 1100 00 7, Apapa, Lagos 007,

What is my luck ?

Dear Joshua, I am deeply interested in Astrology: and the way you analyse people is great, keep it up.

Kindly tell me whatever you think I should know about my life together with my luck, social life and my lucky number.

Kolawole, Lagos.

Dear Kolawole, Thank you for your words of encouragement. Too many things are important but I think what both your immediate and far future have for you must be revealed to you so that you will be prepared.

Mars in Aquarius together with Uranus are pointers to an active social life. The more influential social circle you belong to, the better for you. You=re the cool-headed type beloved by many but once your anger manages to fly off, it can be very difficult if not dangerous; it=s because of your natal Pluto. Yet they keep coming your way.

Saturn can not help forcing challenges on your way, luckily for you however, you have what it takes to live up to the challenges. And as Saturn will never deny it=s worthy native the deserved success, it also gives recognition.

Saturn or no Saturn, good relationship bet Mars and lucky Jupiter when you were born, are green tumb for WEALTH; you will be wealthier more than having liquid cash; nobody can stop your becoming wealthy.

Best colours for you include YELLOW, golden, black but not coconut white. Your sleeping posture should be on East/ West axis with your head to the West.

5 is your destiny number, 9 is your ambition, 8 is your expression, your other numbers are 1, 6, 7 & 11. Thus, they are as superior as listed.

Between now and your 46th year on earth (three and half years) women, money, youngster will greatly feature in your life and a few publicity cum commercial success equally indicated for you.

However come your 47th year (around that period) tough challenges which will border on stiff competition, avoidable accident, treachery and money will come your way.

Although it sounds somehow, it=s the needed tonic for and or pillar for an endless cycle of success that will follow.

Therefore whatever can be shaken to the foundation or be uprooted by that time should not be initiated now. The future is truly brilliant for you.

VIRGINIA

HOME & ABROAD

dadadekola@yahoo.com

By Lawrence Akapa

60 — Vanguard, TUESDAY, MARCH 3, 2015

Siasia denies Okpala N

ATIONAL U-23 team coach, Samson Siasia has dispelled “rumours” that he was set to draft former international, Sylvanus Okpala to bolster his backroom staff.

Speaking at the weekend in Warri, Siasia said, “I have heard the rumours and I am saying it again that I don’t have any plans whatsoever to ask Okpala to join this team (Dream Team VI). Why should I do that?

“The crew is already very strong with coaches like Monday Odigie, Fatai Amoo and Alloy Agu,” Siasia said.

The Dream Team VI will face Gabon’s under23s in an All Africa Games (AAG) qualifier on Saturday in Abuja on the back of a 4-1 win in the first leg.

Siasia says his charges will not be lulled into a false sense of security

ahead of the return fixture.

“We won comprehensively in the first leg but that is no guarantee that we have qualified for the next round.

“I have already told my boys that they must approach the game with every bit of seriousness if we must hoist the flag of this country at the AAG,” he said.

•Okpala

Ike Uche salutes team mates for Real draw

R

EAL Madrid missed the opportunity to open up a four - point gap at the top of the La Liga standings after they could only manage a 1 -1 draw with visiting Villarreal on Sunday night.

Ikechukwu Uche failed to come off the bench for The Yellow Submarine, but he took the decision of manager Marcelino in good faith, if

we are to take his post match comments at face value.

“What a great draw tonight! Well done guys! #EndavantVillarreal,” the Villarreal number 8 announced on Twitter.

Cristiano Ronaldo scored from the penalty spot in the 52nd minute, but Gerard Moreno equalized for the visitors 12 minutes after the Portugal international netted his 30th goal of the season.

Blatter ‘concerned’ by racism report

F

IFA president Sepp Blatter says he is concerned by the findings of a study into the scale of racism in Russia before it hosts the 2018 World Cup. A report by the Fare network and Sova Center highlights more than 200 cases of discriminatory behaviour linked to Russian football over two seasons.

•Siasia

Oduah

Continues from BP

saying, “no Nigerian footballer, dead or alive, who has enjoyed Nigeria more than Stephen Keshi. He was brought from obscurity to fame, from poverty to riches and today he can turn round to tell the same Nigeria as offering him a slave contract. He must move on if he doesn’t like it.

He must stop insulting Nigerians.”

The former Anambra State FA Vice Chairman added, “unfortunately, Keshi has lost the sympathy of Nigerian football fans. Nobody can intercede for him.

He has disappointed all. Remember, as he d i s a p p o i n t e d Nigerians so did he disappoint in Togo and in Mali. He made all the money in the world and has nothing to show for it. He is now a liability because he has reached his limit as a coach “Keshi must not C M Y K

behave as if the job of the Super Eagles is his birthright. There are a thousand and one Nigerians who are qualified and better equipped for that post than himself. He must be told the truth and that is where I feel he has a bad manager.

Instead of advising him, he rather flatters him.

“If he feels he is the best he should go elsewhere and take up a job let us see what he can achieve.”

Oduah praised the NFF for the steps taken so far on the matter.

“This board is different from the previous one.

Pinnick is from Delta state; a sound background of sports administrators. He is being watched and he cannot afford to fail. So far, I am happy with the manner they have handled the Keshi affair. I am happy they are not towing the line of the Maigari board.”

CAF Confed Cup: Dolphins to face Club Africain with the first leg Equatorial Guinea, after

D

OLPHINS will take on Club Africain of Tunisia in the next round of the CAF Confederations Cup,

scheduled to be played in Tunis on March 13.

The Port Harcourt lords had to endure a penalty shoot-out win over Leones Vegetarianos of

Super Eagles Continues from BP But FIFA’s new regulation on friendlies which stipulates that no country should play two games across two continents within three days has nullified the Ghana friendly. And in their place, the NFF and their South African counterparts have agreed for a friendly on March 29. A very reliable source from the Glass house confirmed the match but said that they were yet to agree on the venue of the match.

The friendly would present a good ground for the Eagles to vent their spleen on the

Bafana Bafana that stopped the Keshi Eagles from qualifying for the Africa Cup of Nations in Equatorial Guinea. The South African team out-played the Eagles and were heading home for an upset when the Eagles struggled to equalise to a 2-2 draw. And yet, the draw was not enough to take Eagles to Equatorial Guinea to defend the Nations Cup trophy they won in South Africa in 2013.

Cote d’Ivoire became champions in Equatorial Guinea at the expense of the Black Stars of Ghana in a pulsating penalty shoot-out.

both teams were tied 1-1 on aggregate.

Warri Wolves, who hammered Racing Club Bobo-Dioulasso of Burkina Faso 4-0 on aggregate, will play the winner of the fixture between Dedebit of Ethiopia and Cote d’Or of Seychelles.

•Ike Uche

Drogba's son Continues from BP baller.

The burly Blues forward explained that although he would have enjoyed seeing his son represent the Elephants, he won’t stand in his way of donning the white of England.

“When I asked him (Isaac) which country he would like to play for as an international, he told me neither Ivory Coast nor France but England,” Drogba said.

“I cannot tell why he doesn’t want to play for

my country Ivory Coast if he had to choose a national team someday.

That would be his choice,” he said.

Isaac was born in Paris in 1999 and is thus also eligible to play for France, but it is England where his heart lies.

Drogba’s family lived in England since he first joined Chelsea from Marseille in 2004.

The 36-year-old is Ivory Coast’s all-time top goal scorer with 65 goals in over 100 caps for the West African country.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, MARCH 3, 2015 — 61

Kane: Losing to Chelsea is worst feeling ever T

OTTENHAM striker Harry Kane admits losing to Chelsea in the Capital One Cup final is the “worst feeling in the world”.

Spurs missed their opportunity to end the seven-year trophy drought on Sunday as Chelsea ran out 2-0 winners at Wembley, and despite his disappointment, Kane is says it will drive the club to win silverware of their own.

“I’m gutted for the players, for my teammates, for the staff, for the club itself,” said Kane.

“It’s the worst feeling in the world – losing, and losing in a final on the big stage is even worse.”

“When you see Chelsea lifting that trophy it makes the fire in your belly burn that you want to be back and you want to be lifting that trophy and that’s what we’ve got to do with the squad we have,” the 21-year-old said.

LONELY...Tottenham striker, Harry Kane feeling low after his side lost to Chelsea in the Capital One Cup final, last Sunday.

Ouattara to take charge of Dream Team, Gabon match

B

URKINABE official Jean Ouattara will be at the centre when Nigeria’s Olympic Team, otherwise known as Dream Team, hosts Gabon’s U-23 team in an 11th All-Africa Games qualifier in Abuja on Saturday.

Ouattara, 30, who became an international only this year, will be assisted by compatriots Seydou Tiama (1st Assistant), Phillipo Max Toe (2nd Assistant) and Sanago Boureima (4th Official).

The Match Commissioner is Bruno Didavi, from Republic of Benin.

All five officials are expected in Abuja on Friday.

Thenff.com reports that Nigeria, winners of the

Under-rate me at your own risk, Pacquiao tells Mayweather M ANNY Pacquiao believes that Floyd Mayweather won’t make the mistake of underestimating him the

way the US fighter did when he faced the rugged Argentine puncher Marcos Maidana last year.

M a y w e a t h e r encountered rough sailing when he met Maidana during their first fight in May but won handily in the rematch in September.

“Maybe, he (Mayweather) underestimated Maidana that’s why he had difficulties (handling him),” said Pacquiao.

Pacquiao believes that Mayweather will treat him differently when they go at it on May 2 at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas.

“I know he’s not going to underestimate me,” added the 36-year-old Filipino eight-division champion, who this week set up camp in Los Angeles.

Knowing that Mayweather will get into the ring in his career-best, Pacquiao is working out a sweat with the help of long-time training assistant Buboy Fernandez, who has copied some of Mayweather ’s moves during the mitts sessions in the Philippines.

gold medal of the Men’s Football Tournament of the 2nd All-Africa Games that the country hosted in 1973, blasted the Gabonese 4-1 in Libreville in the first leg penultimate weekend and are favourites to go through to the final round of qualifiers, where Zambia’s U-23 team awaits.

Siasia

Canaan House wins MD school inter-house sports

C

ANAAN House has emerged the winner of the 11th biennial interhouse sports of MD Nursery and Primary School. Canaan House, also known as Blue House, achieved the feat winning nine gold, eight silver and 12 bronze medals.

The inter-house sports, which featured the three branches of the school at Omole, Agidingbi and New Oko-Oba, saw Goshen House clinch the second position.

Ejo picks 12 for Beach Soccer tourney

C MANNY PACQUIAO...Getting ready.

Egypt appoint Hector Cuper as new coach

A

RGENTINE Hector Cuper is the new coach of Egypt, the country ’s Football Association has said.

“The Egypt FA board, after a meeting held by his president Gamal Allam, has appointed Hector Cuper as national team coach,” the EFA said on its website.

In his career Cuper has led Valencia to the C M Y K

Champions League final in 2000 and 2001, and in 2003 he finished second in Serie A with Inter Milan.

Egypt’s previous coach, Shawki Gharib, left the job in November.

The Pharaohs missed out on the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations have not qualified for the World Cup since 1990.

Cuper, is believed to

have been tasked with qualifying the team for the 2018 World Cup - and local media have reported that his contract will be terminated if he does not meet that target.

The 59-year-old has had some previous experience as an international coach, but he failed to win a match when in charge of Georgia boss between August 2008 and December 2009.

OACH Audu Adamu Ejo has picked 12 players to represent the country at this week’s Power Horse Invitational Tournament in Durban, South Africa.

Included are veterans Bartholomew Ibenegbu, Victor Talle and Abu Azeez, as well as new birds Festus Ebiahi and Jamal Akewusola.

The delegation, which also includes five officials, will fly out of the country on Tuesday night aboard a South African Airways flight.

Ejo on Monday trimmed his list to 12, from the 20 players he invited to camp last week, and stated without mincing words that his

team is going to Durban to win the trophy.

The Supersand Eagles have played three friendly matches during the camping in Badagry.

They defeated 36 Lions Beach Soccer Team 5-1, hammered Lead United Beach Soccer Team 14-4 and humiliated Badagry United 16-4.

Jordan joins Billionaire club

M

ICHAEL Jordan can be found near the top of seemingly every list that mentions his name.

He’s not close to the top of a new one, but he’ll probably be just fine with that.

Forbes magazine revealed its 29th annual World’s Billionaires List, and Jordan made the cut for the first time. With an estimated net worth of $1 billion, Jordan qualifies as

the 1,741st richest person in the world, the magazine said.

It is believed that Jordan makes more than $100 million a year off royalties from his Nike Air Jordan line, though his business manager Estee Portnoy has never confirmed those numbers. Portnoy said Monday that “we did not comment nor participate in the financial guesstimates” made by Forbes.

62 — Vanguard, TUESDAY, MARCH 3, 2015 Aston Villa Hull City Southampton

Mourinho:

Ideye, Anichebe doubtful for Aston Villa test

I feed on trophies C

helsea manager Jose Mourinho expressed his relief at winning the League Cup, claiming he needed to end his trophy drought.

“You cannot win every final, but finals are to win,” Mourinho, who has won 21 trophies as a manager, told talkSPORT. “You have to play strategically well and the players need to feel comfortable on the pitch.

“Without Matic [suspended] we had to find a certain balance and we did that. The team was really compact and had control of the game well.”

He added: “It is a good team, this is a good trophy and it is a beautiful day for everyone in a blue shirt.

“I had never gone more than one season without a trophy; I feed myself with trophies. I needed one.”

Today’s Fixtures v West Brom 8:45pm v Sunderland 8:45pm v Crystal Palace 8:45pm

N

igerian striker, Brown Ideye is a major doubt to play for West Brom in tonight’s clash with Aston Villa at Villa Park.

Ideye, rated as the best Nigerian forward on current form by caretaker Super Eagles coach, Daniel Amokachi, got a knock in last Saturday’s match with Southampton at The Hawthorns and might miss the game against the struggling Villa side.

In-form striker Saido Berahino is also a main concern for Tony Pulis after he picked up a knock to his foot, while Victor Anichebe, down with a groin injury could also miss out.

•Mourinho

City consider Suarez bid

Manchester City are mulling over a €140m bid to sign Luis Suarez from Barcelona, according to the Daily Mail.

•Suarez Despite his two goals in the 2-1 Champions League victory over the Blues last week, the Uruguayan has so far failed to live up to expectations at the Camp Nou and the Catalan giants may possibly be willing to let him leave.

City are aware of his situation in Spain and with bringing Lionel Messi to the Etihad Stadium little more than a pipe dream it could see them turn their attention to Suarez.

However, the transfer ban currently imposed on Barcelona, along with the player ’s frosty relationship with the English Press, are two major obstacles to any potential deal.

•Ideye

Valencia show Falcao’s interest

V •Falcao

Rodgers: Palace defeat ‘turning point’ for Liverpool

B

rendan Rodgers claims defeat to Crystal Palace at the end of November was the ‘turning point’ in Liverpool’s campaign.

The Reds were downed 3-1 at Selhurst Park earlier in the season, leaving them 12th in the Premier League table and 18 points behind leaders Chelsea.

And, speaking to the Alan Brazil Sports Breakfast show, Rodgers insists lessons were learnt from the humbling at the Eagles. “”The Crystal Palace defeat was a defining moment in our season. Palace were excellent on the day. I needed to come away from that and really look at the team. We were certainly nowhere near the level we’d been in the last 18 months. That was a turning point.”

•Rodgers

Tassotti to replace Inzaghi

I

•Inzaghi

C M Y K

t’s reported that failure to win next Saturday’s match with Verona will see Pippo Inzaghi replaced on the Milan bench by Mauro Tassotti. The Rossoneri were held by the Butei’s city rivals, Chievo, at San Siro yesterday, leaving Inzaghi’s men marooned in 10th place in Serie A. The Corriere dello Sport reports that jointCEO Adriano Galliani has had a telephone conversation discussion with President Silvio Berlusconi, in which both expressed their displeasure, particularly over the first half performance against Chievo.

Meanwhile, the Gazzetta dello Sport also believes that the visit of Hellas will be crucial for the former striker’s future, and believes that Mauro Tassotti will replace him should Berlusconi decide to pull the trigger.

alencia are interested in making an offer for Manchester United striker Radamel Falcao this summer.

According to The Sun, the Colombian international’s agent Jorge Mendes is due to hold talks with the United hierarchy this week to discuss whether they want to take up their option to sign him on a permanent basis.

Falcao arrived at Old Trafford on loan from Monaco at the start of this season but has so far struggled in England, where he has scored just four times in all competitions, and Valencia are weighing up a move for the 29year-old if he has no future with United.

Should United not wish to sign him, Valencia could make their move having been given a massive cash injection following Singapore businessman Peter Lim’s takeover of the club.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, MARCH 3, 2015 — 63

I won’t rely on foreign-based players—Okon S

UPER Falcons’ head coach, Edwin Okon has stated categorically that he is not relying on foreign-based players to prosecute the All Africa Games and Olympics qualifiers.

Ten foreign-based players were invited to camp but Okon is optimistic that locallybased players who are already in camp can equally execute the matches convincingly.

“I don’t think that is a problem for me and my coaches. You can see the work in progress. We are not waiting for, or relying on foreign-based players, we just have to prepare our team and pick those players who can beat Mali and beat them very well.”

“If those based abroad come to join us, then it is a boost for us but we are not leaving anything to chance. We have to prepare and plan with those here to execute the task ahead” Okon stated.

The Super Falcons have been in camp for one week now, engaging in training centred on fitness and conditioning with and without the ball.

Training resumed today after the team observed rest on Sunday.

The first leg qualifier against Mali comes up in the weekend of March 20-22.

By Eddie Akalonu

T

ON THE PROWL...Reigning African Female Footballer of the Year, Super Falcons' Asisat Oshoala gets past Ivorian defender during their AWC final in Namibia.

Nadal ends title drought R

AFAEL Nadal won his first title in nearly nine months Sunday after defeating Juan Monaco 64, 6-1 at the Argentina Open.

The top-seeded Spaniard hadn’t reached a final since winning at

Mobil Sports Students report to camp today

T

HE countdown to the grand finale of the 14thAKS/NNPC/MPN Schools Athletics Championships begins today with the call to camp of the 500 students that have qualified for the finals.

After exhaustive trials in the eight sports zones of the state, 500 students qualified for the finals scheduled at the Ultra Modern Akwa Ibom International Stadium in Uyo. Unlike the previous editions when the final was held at the beaten earth tracks of the Eket Stadium, the students are required this time around to run on tartan tracks, hence the need to camp and familiarize them with the modern equipment to be found in the stadium.

2015 World University Games: NUGA seeks N200m

Renowned coaches led

by Professor Ogunjimi have been recruited to put the students through. He will be assisted by former National team coach Amelia Edet, Solomon Abari, Utitofon Nkanta, and Ofonbuk Okon.

Current National team coach Gabriel Okon has been deployed by the Athletics Federation of Nigeria(AFN) to oversee the three day camping.

With the Camp site at Community Secondary Commercial School Ikot Okubo in Uyo, students are expected to hit camp at about 4pm for accreditation and collection of camp materials including spike shoes and canvasses, training and competition kits and toiletries among others.

Roland Garros last year.

It was Nadal’s 46th title on clay, moving him within three of the record set by Argentine Guillermo Vilas when he played in the 1970s and early 1980s.

Nadal broke Monaco’s serve late in the first set to take a 1-0 lead against the 60th-ranked Argentine, then dominated the second to close out the match in 1 hour, 26 minutes.

Rain delayed and interrupted the match in Buenos Aires.

“It was a complicated day for everybody,” Nadal said.

“Both for me and (Monaco) but especially for the fans who had to wait. We have to thank them for staying here until the end.”

HE Nigeria University Games Association, NUGA, said it would require N200 million for Nigeria to successfully th participate in the 28 World University Games in GWamgju South Korea in July.

NUGA secretary Bola Orodele said in an interview in Lagos that the money would ensure qualifiers are held to pick the best athletes and teams, camping and preparations and participation in the Games.

According to him, Nigeria will take part in athletics, taekwondo, judo and has been placed on standby for two team sports, football and basketball for men.

“Nigeria has been placed on standby for those team sports and we intend to attend the Heads of Delegates meeting in April in the host city where decision would be made on our application,” he stated.

I'VE DONE IT...Tennis Star, Rafael Nadal rejoices after winning Argentina open final.

GOtv boxing night reignites Nigeria/Ghana rivalry

By Jacob Ajom

T

HE once lively rivalry between Nigeria and Ghana in boxing may have been reignited by Flykite Productions, promoters of the GOtv Boxing night as Nigeria’s national featherweight champion, Waidi Usman will be squaring up against Ghana’s Alfred Quaye on March 15 at the Indoor Sports Hall of the National

Stadium Surulere, Lagos. At stake is the West African Boxing Union featherweight title.

According to Jenkins Alumona of Flykite Productions, there will be five other bouts on the night.

Top on the bill is the heavyweight title bout between champion Abbey Tiger and challenger, Tope

Ogunsinasi. It promises to be a tempestuous bout as both fighters are talking tough ahead of the fight.

While Tope has promised to stop Abbey Tiger in the fourth round, Abbey on his part replied, “I will stop him before round three.”

On the same night, Sunday ‘Capo’ Olalekan will be taking on Tombraye ‘Tornado’

Christmas in the light middleweight class while Kehinde Badmus and Ottor Joseph will slug it out in the Lightweight class.

Other bouts include the light middleweight fight between Jamiu Animashaun and Wahab Adebisi while Olaide Fajibi and Waliu Arogundade test each other’s might in the light welterweight category.

C M Y K

Vanguard, TUESDAY, MARCH 3, 2015

Super Eagles to play Bafana Bafana on March 29

BY TONY UBANI

B

AFANA Bafana of South Africa have

Eagles job isn't Keshi's birthright — Prince Oduah

BY JACOB AJOM

V

•Keshi

Ideye, Anichebe doubtful for Villa clash — Page 62

ETERAN football administrator, Prince Isidore Oduah has taken a swipe at former Super Eagles coach, Stephen Keshi for calling the new contract offer by the Nigeria Football Federation “a slave contract.”

Speaking with Sports Vanguard yesterday, Prince Oduah said, “Keshi must remember that this board did not employ him. They only offered him what they could afford. They cannot play to the gallery and offer him what would turn out to be months of unpaid salaries. If he doesn’t like it he must look elsewhere.”

He felt pained by Keshi’s use of language, Continues on Page 60

been chosen as replacement for the Black Stars of Ghana to play the Super Eagles in a friendly on March 29 in a yet to be determined venue.

The Eagles were earlier scheduled to play the Bolivian national team on March 26 at the Uyo I n t e r n a t i o n a l Stadium(Nests of Champions) and play the Black Stars of Ghana on March 29 in London.

Siasia denies .60 Okpala P

•Siasia

Continues on Page 60

Drogba’s son chooses England H

IS father might be an Ivory Coast legend, but Didier Drogba’s son Isaac, 16, has no intentions of representing the 2015 African Cup of Nations champions.

Talking to Sports Illustrated Drogba revealed that his son, who is currently a youth player at Chelsea, will opt to represent the Three Lions if he manages to make the grade as a professional foot

•Drogba (r) and Son, Isaac Continues on Page 60

QUICK CROSSWORD

TODAY'S

PUZZLE

YESTERDAY 'S ANSWERS YESTERDAY'S

DOWN ACROSS 1 Brawl (6) 4 Desolate (5) 2 Resist (6) 7 Reiterate (6) 3 Lout (3) 9 Garland (3) 4 Cream (4) 10 Sport (3) 5 Supple (5) 12 Obese (5) 6 Fish-tank (8) 13 Calm (4) 8 Instrument (4) 15 Cabin (5) 11 Careless (9) 17 Brutal (6) 14 Alight (4) 19 Deserve (4) 16 Peruse (4) 20 View (5) 18 Swerve (4) 22 Circuit (3) 24 Determined (7) 21 Being (8) 23 Plague (4) 27 Mat (3) 25 Shrewd (4) 28 Sordid (5) 26 Intense (4) 31 Facts (4) 29 Worshipped (6) 33 Tried (6) 30 Shouted (6) 35 Passed (5) 32 Flower (5) 37 Election (4) 34 Knife (4) 38 Share (5) 36 Divide (4) 39 Faucet (3) 40 Snoop (3) 41 Epoch (3) 42 Wind (6) 43 Centre (5)

YESTERDAY'S SOLUTIONS

ACROSS: 1, Fret 4, Fad 6, Mess 9, Awl 10, Disperse 11, Reel 14, Orb 16, Shape 19, Footwear 21, Essay 23, Separate 24, Rated 27, Dip 31, Drab 33, Evidence 34, Ice 35, Fled 36, Dry 37, Teem.

DOWN: 2, Raid 3, Tape 4, Fortress 5, Deep 6, Marsh 7, Ewe 8, Sleep 12, Offer 13, Boast 14, Owe 15, Based 17, Appal 18, Expel 20, Rapidity 22, Yap 25, April 26, Ebbed 28, Held 29, Sent 30, Ache 32, Ace.

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.

Printed and Published by VANGUARD MEDIA LIMITED, Vanguard Avenue, Kirikiri Canal, P.M.B.1007, Apapa. Phone: Newsroom: 018773962. Deputy Editor: 01-4548355. Advert Dept Hotline: 014544821; Abuja: 09-2341102, 09-2342704. E-mail: editor@vanguardngr.com, news@vanguardngr.com, letters@vanguardngr.com. Advert:advertproduction@yahoo.com Website: www.vanguardngr.com (ISSN 0794-652X) Editor: MIDENO BAYAGBON. Phone: 01-7742861, All correspondence to P.M.B. 1007, Apapa Lagos.

C M Y K