We're not responsible for your loss, PDP tells GEJ

...towards a better life for the people

**

VOL. 25: NO. 62398

Enugu lawmakers serve Gov Chime 8 impeachment notice

ONLINE | www.vanguardngr.com

N150

TUESDAY, MAY 5, 2015

FG, marketers fail to agree on oil 49 subsidy debt

We're not responsible for your loss, PDP tells GEJ

By Henry Umoru

•Says party was not carried along during campaigns A •Blames PDP's failure on hate campaign against Buhari •Threatens to publish beneficiaries of party funds •BUHARI'S CABINET: APC govs submit ministerial list

9

BUJA — THE leadership of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, has washed its hands off the defeat of President Goodluck Jonathan in the last presidential election, blaming it on what it described as the tactlessness of the President’s hand-picked campaign team led by Dr. Ahmadu Ali. The party directly blamed the hate campaign launched against the All Progressives Congress, Continues on Page 5

See Inside

Mr & Mrs

RESCUED—Migrants from Nigeria queue up to receive food at a building rented by the Tunisian Red Crescent in the southeastern port of Zarzis, near the border with Libya, yesterday, a few weeks after they were rescued off Tunisia while trying to sail from Libya to Europe. AFP PHOTO.

COLUMNIST:

Rivers’ monarch speaks from hideout C M Y K

•P.46

See Inside

Pregnancy rights victory for women

Oil price down to $66 per barrel 9

2 — Vanguard, TUESDAY TUESDAY,, MAY 5, 2015

C M Y K

Vanguard, TUESDAY TUESDAY,, MAY 5, 2015 — 3

C M Y K

4 — Vanguard, TUESDAY TUESDAY,, MAY 5, 2015

C M Y K

Vanguard, TUESDAY, MAY 5, 2015—5

POCKET CARTOON never involved in the disbursement of campaign funds as he revealed that the party spent over N4 billion to sponsor their candidates in the presidential, governorship, National Assembly and Houses of Assembly elections.

N9bn generated from sale of expression of interest and nomination forms MEETING: From left: Executive Secretary, Major Oil Marketers Association of Nigeria (MOMAN), Mr Femi Olawore; Minister of Finance, Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala; Minister of State for Finance, Amb. Bashir Yuguda and Executive Secretary, Petroleum Product Pricing Regulatory Agency (PPPRA), Mr Farouk Ahmed, during the Minister of Finance's meeting with the marketers in Abuja, yesterday. Photo: NAN.

We're not responsible for your loss, PDP tells GEJ Continues from page 1 APC, presidential candidate, Maj. Gen. Muhammadu Buhari for the defeat.

The National Working Committee, NWC, of the party also, yesterday, dismissed reports of profiting from the N9 billion raised for the party’s campaigns, affirming its readiness to defend the N30 million paid to each NWC member which it claimed was approved by the President.

Contacted on the development, spokesman of the Presidential Campaign Organisation,

against Buhari PCO, Chief Femi FaniKayode, promised to comment on the issues today.

Addressing journalists, yesterday, in Abuja, the PDP National Publicity Secretary, Chief Olisa Metuh, while exonerating the party from Jonathan’s failure, traced the defeat to the exclusion of the party and its leadership from running of the campaign.

Metuh said even advice was ignored by those that ran the campaign.

Blames PDP's failure on hate campaign

Metuh particularly blamed the hate campaign by the Presidential Campaign Committee which resulted in the failure of the party, saying members of the NWC did not play any significant part in the 2015 presidential campaign of the party.

He said the abysmal performance of the party in the North was a result of the hate campaign adopted and executed by the party's PCO against the APC and its presidential candidate, Buhari.

The denial follows recent reports of pressure on the NWC to resign from office on account of the loss of the presidency to the APC.

TAKE HEART

Jonathan failed because party was The human voice is the most powerful instrument not carried along

BY ELLA RANDLE

and sound in the world, probably because it’s the only one that can start a war, or that can say I love you —Julian Treasure

M

any people have the experience that when they speak, people don’t listen to them. Why is this so? We use our voice to speak powerfully and to make change from within and the world only when we have mastered how to overcome the seven deadly ills against speaking rightly.

The first on the list is gossip, speaking ill of somebody who’s not present is not a nice habit and we know perfectly well the person gossiping to us, just five minutes later will be gossiping about us to someone else.

The second ill is judging, and it’s very hard to listen to somebody, if you know that you’re being judged and found wanting. The third is negativity.

Try being around someone who takes the sunshine away from everything, it’s hard to listen when somebody’s that negative.

The fourth is constant complaining. Some people just love to do this, just about anything…and actually complaining is a viral misery, the fifth is blame, a blame thrower, just pass it on to everybody else and don’t take responsibility for their actions and again hard to listen to somebody like this.

The sixth of the ills is exaggeration, when we make every expression into an hyperbole, people do not believe anything we say and don’t take us seriously.

Of course we do not listen to people, when we know they are lying to us.

And finally dogmatism, the confusion of fact with opinions. It is hard to listen when you know somebody is bombarding you with their opinions. I conclude with this quote from desiderata, say your truth but know too that others have their say.

Denying the culpability of the party leadership, Metuh said: “We did not lead the party to failure, we were not involved in the campaigns and our advice was ignored. If we had handled the campaign, Mr. President would have won the election. We cannot be held responsible when our advice was ignored.”

Noting the issue of the hate campaign against Buhari, he said: “Let me say this. In 2003, President Obasanjo ran an election against Odumegwu-Ojukwu in the South-East. In 2007, Yar ’Adua ran election against Ojukwu. I can tell you, if PDP had engaged in name calling or abused Ojukwu in any way, PDP would have lost the elections in the SouthEast.”

Reacting to an online report that NWC members shared part of the presidential campaign funds among themselves, he said the NWC was

According to Metuh, the party generated about N9 billion from the sale of expression of interest and nomination forms from aspirants to various offices on the platform of the party for the 2015 elections.

He said the party, out of the money generated, donated N500 million to the presidential campaign fund last December and gave out N100 million to each of the 29 gubernatorial candidates on the April 11 governorship election.

According to him, “we sponsored our House of Assembly candidates. The money was passed through the governors or through ministers and gubernatorial candidates in states where PDP has no sitting governor.”

Metuh, who disclosed that the party got approval from President Jonathan for all the expenditures, expressed the readiness of the NWC to make public its account, saying: “For the avoidance of doubt, we wish to state categorically that this national leadership has remained very transparent in all its dealings since coming into office.

"No NWC member has been involved in any way in any sleaze or embezzlement of party funds. Also, no member of the NWC has ever been accused of embezzlement of funds in any ministry, department or agencies of government at any level whatsoever."

On N30m paid to NWC members

On the allegation of N30 million paid to each member of the NWC, Metuh said: “We state clearly that we have not been given any money, rather this NWC generated billions of naira from the sale of forms from where we funded our candidates for governorship and state assembly elections in all the states of the federation in addition to funds released to key leaders including NWC and BoT members to prosecute the campaigns in their various areas. The PDP spokesman, who explained that the NWC members had no knowledge of how the money voted for the PDP presidential campaign was spent, said the N30 million paid to NWC members received the approval of

President Jonathan, saying it was meant for furniture, medical and other allowances accruable to members in the last three years.

"The NWC is willing and ready to make this account public in line with the Freedom of Information law.

“In the attempt to discredit the NWC, these elements pushed out series of misleading information to the unsuspecting public alleging that the party leadership mismanaged the presidential campaign funds, leading to the poor performance in the polls and as such NWC should be made to resign.

“When this wicked and baseless allegation was debunked by the NWC, which publicly clarified that it was not involved in the handling of the campaign and its funding, and that such were exclusively managed by the Presidential Campaign Organisation appointed by the President, these divisive elements in their desperation came up with another allegation claiming that the leadership embezzled funds belonging to the party.

“Even after the NWC also debunked this despicable allegation, showing that the party ’s funds were judiciously appropriated for our state election campaigns, this group resorted to labelling the NWC with attempts to instigate President Jonathan, PDP governors and other well-meaning members of our party against the national leadership.

“This is in addition to recent sponsored publications accusing the NWC of corruption with claims that members shared monies generated from the sale of forms from aspirants for the general elections."

No crisis in PDP national leadership

Metuh, who said the party had resolved its differences following the intervention of President Jonathan, the PDP governors and other key stakeholders of the party including governors and legislators elected, disclosed that PDP was

joining forces with the NWC in its efforts at reengineering and rebuilding the party as well as repositioning it to regain power in 2019.

NWC insists its tenure expires March 2016

He said: “On this note, we wish to state clearly that there is no crisis in the national leadership of the PDP. The National Working Committee under the chairmanship of Ahmadu Adamu Mu’azu is duly elected and is fully in control of the administration of the party until the expiration of its tenure in March 2016 in line with the provisions of the constitution of our great party."

We're pained, we helped you to power, PDP tells Fayose

Meanwhile, the NWC has expressed shock that Governor Ayodele Fayose would join the chorus of those seeking the dissolution of the body after the national leadership made way for his emergence as the party’s governorship flag bearer in the Ekiti State governorship contest last year.

Metuh said it was least expected of him, having enjoyed the support of the same body to regain power.

He said: “The National Secretary of the party, Professor Oladipo, has already replied appropriately. But we feel pained by Governor Fayose’s action."

"This is a man that got total support from the NWC during the governorship primaries in Ekiti State.

“At a stage, some stakeholders in the state wanted him to be excluded from partaking in the party primaries, but we in the NWC stood our ground that due process must be allowed. Through our internal democracy, he eventually won the ticket and we mobilised funds for his election, we give glory to God, he won the election.

“We are pained that such a man we supported so much could come around and call for our sack because of the outcome of an election not due to our faults."

6—Vanguard, TUESDAY, MAY 5, 2015

Ahoada East council boss regains freedom

By Jimitota Onoyume

P

ORT HARCOURT— C A R E TA K E R Committee Chairman of Ahoada East Local Government Area of Rivers State, Mr. Cassidy Ikegbedi, has been released by his abductors.

His media aide, Mr. Blessed Oyaghiri, said he was released in the early hours of yesterday, adding that no ransom was paid for his release.

It would be recalled that the council boss was whisked away by some unknown gunmen two weeks ago at Ahoada before the re-run election for the state House of Assembly in some constituencies in the state.

Oyaghiri said the council boss, who is the second council chairman to be abducted in the last one year, was already with his family.

He was later released after spending days with his kidnappers.

Man, 22, accused of beating, raping 20-yr-old girl

By Bartholomew Madukwe & Jane Echewodo

A

22-year-old man, Tunde Olanrewaju, has been charged before an Oshodi Magistrate’s Court in Lagos for alleged rape of one Bilikis Salaudeen, 20.

Olanrewaju, who was said to have committed the offence at Oshodi area of Lagos, was further accused of assaulting the victim by beating her.

According to the charge brought against the accused by the police, he also conducted himself in a manner likely to cause breach of public peace.

Police prosecutor, Mr. Kehinde Olatunde, informed the court that the offence was punishable under Section 258 of the Criminal Laws of Lagos State, Nigeria, 2011.

Magistrate Fashola granted the accused N100,000 bail with two sureties, who should have paid tax for three years.

NUEE ALLOWANCE: Members of National Union of Electricity Employees, NUEE, North-West Zone, protesting non-payment of their allowances, in Kaduna, yesterday. NAN PHOTO.

Dusk-to-dawn curfew in Aladja, as cultists kill vigilante

By Akpokona Omafuaire

W

ARRI—SUSPECTED cultists have killed a member of Udu vigilante, shot another at Owhase just as a dusk-to-dawn curfew was slammed on Aladja over recent cultists’ activities.

Vanguard last week reported that a married woman was raped, and items stolen in a daring attack in the area.

Vanguard gathered that some suspects have been arrested and handed over to the police for prosecution.

Last weekend, suspected cultists killed one Irikefe, a member of Orhuwhorun vigilante and took his gun.

Another vigilante member attached to Ohwase was shot in the leg at New York Junction and his gun stolen.

A source at Aladja said: “A lot of cult members have been arrested at Aladja before and after last week’s attack. The community has emplaced a 12am to 5am curfew after the recent cultists’ attack.

“With that decision, peace and normalcy have returned to the community. It is a decisive action on curbing the menace

of cultism with vigilante and youth leaders embarking on street patrols daily and it is yielding immediate results.

“Cultists are now fleeing the town; Aladja has zero tolerance for criminality. So it came as a jolt. The leadership

was very sore and they have vowed to deal decisively with anyone caught as a cultist or criminal.”

Vanguard gathered that after the latest killings, the suspected cultists abandoned their operational vehicle, which was

suspected to have been stolen.

It had been recovered by policemen from Ovwian/Aladja.

At press time, Delta State Police Command spokesperson, DSP Celestina Kalu, could not be reached on phone for comments.

Police arraign bullion van driver for manslaughter in Ogun

By Daud Olatunji

A

BEOKUTA—A 31-year-old bullion van driver hired by a bank, Abayomi Komolafe, who reportedly crushed a motorcyclist to death last week, was yesterday arraigned before an Abeokuta Chief Magistrate’s Court for alleged reckless driving and manslaughter.

A 19-year-old boy, Gbenga Okesola, was crushed to death around OPIC, Oke-Ilewo, Abeokuta, in the incident.

The incident resulted in a clash between policemen and some motorcyclists, which led to the arrest of some of the motorcyclists.

The prosecutor, Inspector Sunday Eigbejiale, told the court that the accused committed the alleged offence on April 30 at about 10:30p.m. at Opic Roundabout in Abeokuta.

According to Eigbejiale, the accused drove a Mercedes Benz bullion van with number plate PF 281 SPY recklessly and dangerously, which led to the death of Okesola.

He said the accused drove without possessing the necessary documents such as drivers and vehicle licenses, insurance and road worthiness certificates.

He submitted that the offences contravened Sections

18, 7 (1) 14 (1), 25 (2) (b) (p) of Road Traffic Law Vol 4 Laws of Ogun, 2006, and Section 31 (1) of the Motor Vehicle Third Party Insurance.

The accused, whose plea was not taken by the court, was represented by Mr. Israel Shogbamu.

Shogbamu applied for bail for his client in liberal terms and assured the court that he would not jump bail.

The Chief Magistrate, Mr Anthony Araba, granted the accused N500,000 bail with two sureties in like sum and ordered that the bullion van be detained in the court premises.

He adjourned the case to June 5 for further hearing.

How 18-yr-old girl drowned washing Ukwa seeds in Imo

By Chidi Nkwopara

O

WERRI—THE people of Umuezeala, Umueme autonomous community, AwoOmamma in Oru East Local Government Area of Imo State have been thrown into mourning, following the drowning of their daughter, Miss Chioma Amaechi.

Vanguard investigations revealed that Chioma went to the fast-flowing Njaba River to

wash Ukwa seeds(African Breadfruit). A source in the village told Vanguard that the girl had completed the task and decided to take a bath, when she drowned.

The villager said: “Some people at the scene heard a scream from her and her two younger siblings tried to save her.”

The man also recalled that some adults at the scene made frantic efforts to save the

drowning trio and succeeded in saving the younger siblings.

“How Chioma slipped away from the hands of the diver and other efficient swimmers has remained a mystery,” the villager recalled.

Another female villager, who equally spoke on condition of anonymity, said: “The young school leaver has not been seen since. Divers and some good swimmers, who were engaged by the family have not been able

to recover the body of the missing girl.”

Chioma’s mother, Mrs. Emeka Amaechi, a widow, wept bitterly, praying for a miracle to happen in her daughter’s case.

Vanguard gathered that 18year-old Chioma, who wrote the West African School Certificate Examination last year at Amiri Girls Secondary School, had written this year ’s Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination, UTME.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, MAY 5, 2015—7

Fulani herdsmen kill 30 in fresh attacks on Plateau villages

By Marie-Therese Nanlong

J

OS—FRESH attacks by suspected Fulani herdsmen in two villages in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State have left no fewer than 30 persons dead, chairman of council, Emmanuel Loman, has confirmed.

He said the suspected

Fulani attackers entered Vat and Zakupang villages of Foron District through neighbouring Jos East Local Government Area at night. He added that they killed 17 people at Vat and 13 others at Zakupang.

Those killed were mostly women as well as a Pastor with the Church of Christ in Nations, COCIN, identified as Luka Gwom.

The council chair condemned the attack, accusing security agents of not doing enough to protect the lives of the citizens of the council.

A woman, identified as Paulina, who got married two weeks ago, was also killed in the recent incident, which has left the entire communities in disarray. So far, the recovered corpses were said to be

awaiting mass burial.

Loman decried the incessant attacks in the locality and challenged security agencies, especially the Special Task Force, STF, to take action toward arresting the attackers.

Efforts to contact the spokesman of Special Task Force, STF, on phone were unsuccessful as calls to his line were not going through at press time.

LOADED: At Hill Station Hotel Roundabout, Jos, yesterday. NAN PHOTO.

Bizman docked over alleged N1.3m theft

By Onozure Dania

L

AGOS—A 43-year-old businessman, Lamidi Moruf, was yesterday arraigned before a Tinubu Magistrate's Court for allegedly obtaining N1.3 million by false pretence.

The defendant, who has no fixed address, is facing a two-count charge of obtaining and stealing preferred against him by the police.

The prosecutor, Supol Chidi Okoye, told the court that the defendant committed the alleged offence in February at Zenith Bank on Campbell Street, Lagos Island.

He said the defendant obtained the said sum from one Olusola Shenaike, under the pretence of selling a Toyota Corolla car to him, which he did not.

According to Okoye, the offence is punishable under Sections 312, (1) (b) and 285 (1) of the Criminal Law of Lagos State of Nigeria, 2011.

However, the defendant pleaded not guilty to the charges against him, and Magistrate A. O. Awogboro granted him bail in the sum of N200,000 with two sureties in like sum.

She adjourned the matter till June 2 for mention.

Landlord evicts Otuoke Varsity students from hostel over N24m rent

By Emem Idio

Y

ENAGOA—HUNDREDS of returning male students of Federal University, Otuoke, in Ogbia Local Government Area of Bayelsa State were, Sunday, stranded as they were shut out of their hostels by the landlord over alleged inability of the school and state government to pay N24 million, being two years rent.

When Vanguard visited the 52-bedroom apartment, which housed more than half of the institution’s male population yesterday, it was bereft of normal student activities.

However, Dean of Student Life, Dr. Marcellina Offoha, and the porter were packing out students' property as the landlord stood by, waiting to put a lock on the gate.

Landlord has a letter

The landlord, who brandished a letter signed R. E. Ndiomu, on behalf of Yenagoa-based Stream Solicitors, said he was tired of the antics of the state government, which had failed to honour the agreement to pay him annually for the apartment.

He said he had made several efforts to get the issue resolved amicably, but lamented that all his efforts were thwarted by Bayelsa State government, who is the tenant and the school authorities, who occupied the apartment.

He said: “I am evicting the university. They are my tenants and they are owing due to the negligence from the state government. They are owing me for two years. I have given them quit notice and I hope they are quitting.

“I have spoken to the state government; I have had meetings with the Secretary to the State Government and with the Permanent Secretary.

“I have had meetings with the Vice Chancellor and the school Registrar; all to no avail.

“They said there was no fund from the state government because it was Bayelsa State government that we have the tenancy agreement with and the state government bequeathed the property to the university.

“But whichever way, we have an agreement to be paid, which has not been done.”

The quit notice

The quit notice read: “We, the landlords of the 52 bedroom apartments at Onuegbum, Otuoke Road, Otuoke, give you

notice to quit and deliver possession of the aforementioned property with its appurtenances, which you hold as a tenant or on before the expiration of seven days upon the receipts of this notice, for failure of the Bayelsa State government, through the office of the Secretary to the State Government, Bayelsa State, to pay the balance of 24 million naira as rent accruable.

“We have been patiently waiting for the balance sum since last year, but have been frustrated by the lack of commitment which the Bayelsa State government has shown despite several attempts to get the state government to adhere to its promise as we have kept our part of the bargain, hence the notice.

“We regret this notice. But failure to adhere to this notice, we shall enter into possession without recourse to you or Bayelsa State government.”

Copied

The Vice Chancellor, Chief Legal Adviser to the university, and Secretary to the State government, were copied and claimed receipt of the letter on March 10.

Dr. Offoha said: “We have come to beg him; we are on our knees.

“He is a kind person and has allowed us to take at least something that will calm the students wherever they are, while discussion with the school and the government continue.”

Meanwhile, the students have been provided with temporary accommodation.

Calls to Chief Press Secretary, Mackson Iworiso, were not answered and messages to his cell phone were not replied.

However, Olusoji Ajibola, Special Assistant on Media, in a telephone chat, said he will get back but had not done so at press time.

8—Vanguard, TUESDAY, MAY 5, 2015

Enugu House serves impeachment notice on Gov Chime

By Austin Ogwuda & Francis Igata

E

NUGU —THE Enugu State House of Assembly, yesterday, resolved to serve a notice of impeachment on Governor Sullivan Chime for alleged infractions ranging from inflation of contracts to forgery of the state budget.

The move by the Eugene Odo-led House of Assembly was immediately rebuffed by an eight-man faction of the House which countered the action of the majority members by suspending Speaker Odo and some key members of the majority faction of the House.

Following the contradictory moves by the two factions, the police in Enugu immediately moved in to seal the parliament building.

The events in Enugu commenced as early as 5.00 a.m. yesterday, when Speaker Odo led 16 members to the House complex not far from the Government House for an early morning session. At the end of their deliberation, the House directed the Clerk of the House to serve the impeachment notice on Governor Chime on the allegation of constitutional infractions including inflation of the contract for the state secretariat and the forgery of the N12 billion 2012 Supplementary budget among other offences.

After the sitting, Odo and his group took their exit and also went away with the mace of the House.

Election of new speaker However, not long after, nine members of the House strongly believed to be sympathetic to Chime, otherwise known as G9, stormed the Assembly complex in the company of the state deputy governor-elect, Cecilia Ezeilo, with another mace. As they commenced proceedings, the faction elected the member representing Nsukka-East constituency, Mr. Chinedu Nwamba as the new Speaker of the House.

The faction sympathetic to Chime and led by the deputy speaker, Chime Orji, suspended Odo with other principal officers and adjourned sitting sine die.

Before the G9 group commenced the business of the day, the faction which was originally eight, formally recalled Johnbull Nwagu who had earlier been suspended by the House for allegedly conniving with the executive to deny the members of their

Gov Lamido won't leave debts for incoming govt —Speaker

By Aliyu Dangida

D

RECEPTION: Former President Olusegun Obasanjo (right) being received by Senator Andy Uba (left) while Otunba Johnson Fasawe (middle) watched at the Presidential Wing, Nnamdi Azikiwe Airport, Abuja, yesterday. Photo: Abayomi Adeshida. allowances.

Chief Press Secretary to Speaker Odo, Mr. Lawrence Agbo, had penultimate Sunday listed the burning issues taken by the House in recent past, which did not go down well with the executive to include the suspension of the Water Concession Plan for 25 years; stoppage of land allocation at International Conference Centre; construction of park and shop mall adjacent the House of Assembly complex as well as land allocation at old Eastern Nigeria Industrial Centre at Zik, Avenue, Enugu.

Others include probe of alleged fictitious award of contracts by Enugu State Universal Basic Education Board, ENSUBEB, and request for cancellation of land allocation to individuals around the 3Arms Zone of the state.

Vanguard also gathered that the allowances and

entitlements of the members have not been paid since February.

Sealing of Assembly complex: We were doing our job —PPRO State Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO, Mr. Ebere Amaraizu, however told Vanguard that the action of the police was not unlawful because, according to him, “police presence is to prevent further breakdown of law and order, in line with our constitutional mandate.”

It was being speculated that Chime ordered the sealing of the complex in order to prevent the impeachment proceedings against him.

Human rights group kicks Executive Director of Centre for the Vulnerable and the Underprivileged, CENTREP, Mr. Oghenejabor Ikimi, in a

statement yesterday, said: “The act of Governor of Enugu State, Sullivan Chime, ordering the police to seal Enugu State House of Assembly over an impeachment process by 15 of the 24 House members is to say the least a reckless abuse of executive power by a sitting governor.

“We urge the police not to be used as a tool of oppression by the governor in the above saga. The police must respect the rule of law and the constitution.

"Having said that, I make bold to say that the mere sealing of the House by the police on the orders of the governor is only a temporary relief for the embattled governor as members of the House who are bent on impeaching him can constitutionally continue their impeachment proceedings in any public building within the state capital.”

UTSE—Speaker of the Jigawa State House of Assembly, Adamu Ahmed Sarawa, has said the out-going administration of Governor Sule Lamido would not leave any debt either as loan or liability for the incoming government to inherit.

Governor Lamido had earlier been quoted as saying that he would leave behind a debt of N11billon for the incoming administration of Badaru Abubakar and even urged them to vigorously pursue the immediate payment of the money from the Federal Government.

Sarawa spoke in an interview with newsmen, weekend, saying the debt which accumulated to about N11billion was used by the administration for the construction of Dutse International Airport.

He said the government used its resources with the hope that the Federal Government would refund it but regretted that this was not done.

According to him, this cannot be called debt as “we borrowed money from our sources and we are expecting money from the Federal Government.”

The speaker, who lost his senatorial seat to APC candidate in the Jigawa North-East district, explained that as a Muslim he accepted his defeat as having been destined by "God, who giveth power to whom He wished at any given time."

ASTHMA: New report calls for caution on breastfeeding

By Chioma Obinna

L

AGOS — A NEW report by the Global Initiative for Asthma, G INA, to mark the 2015 World Asthma Day today, has dismissed earlier studies that claimed beneficial effect of breast feeding on asthma prevention, calling for caution on the conflicting results.

The report entitled: “Global Strategy for Asthma Management and Prevention” stressed the need for caution to be taken by experts in advising families with asthma that breast-feeding can prevent asthma.

Asthma is a condition of the airways and people with

asthma have sensitive airways in their lungs which react to triggers that set off their asthma.

This makes it harder for them to breathe.

In Nigeria, the latest WHO data published in April 2011 showed that asthma deaths in Nigeria reached 10,871 or 0.64 percent of total deaths. The age adjusted death rate was also put at 15.55 per 100,000 of population and ranks Nigeria 37 in the world.

According to the new report, breast feeding decreases wheezing episodes in early life but it may not prevent development of persistent asthma.

“Regardless of its effect on

development of asthma, breast feeding should be encouraged for all of its other positive benefits, the report noted.

The GINA report also noted that maternal intake of vitamin D and vitamin E was associated with lower risk of wheezing illnesses in children.

The report states that “delayed introduction of solids beginning in the 1990s, many national paediatric agencies and societies recommended delay of introduction of solid food, especially for children at a high risk for developing allergy.

"Current guidelines do not recommend strict avoidance of high-risk foods but carefully controlled prospective studies

are needed to conclusively resolve this controversy.”

In a related development, a Consultant Chest Physician at the Department of Medicine, Lagos University Teaching Hospital, LUTH, Dr Cyril Chukwu, has said that no fewer than 25 per cent of admissions in teaching hospitals stem from respiratory tract infection, RTI. Chukwu who said clean environment prevents asthma noted that most developed countries pay attention to environmental sanitation and tree planting, among other ecological beautifications aimed at reducing asthmatic attacks.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, MAY 5, 2015 — 9

BUHARI’S CABINET: APC

lists

By Levinus Nwabughiogu

A

BUJA— TO ensure that it hits the ground running after the May 29 hand-over, President-elect, Major-General Muhammadu Buhari (retd), has started putting together his cabinet.

He has directed governors elected on the platform of his party, the All Progressives Congress, APC, to forward the names of their ministerial nominees and the governors have started responding, Vanguard gathered, yesterday.

Three names are to be submitted by each state.

A South-East governor, last week, told stakeholders in the zone to immediately comply.

The conditions

While giving the directive, Buhari also left at least two criteria the governors must meet in nominating people for the

run a broad cabinet.”

Oil price drops to $66 as US shale production falls

APC govs to meet Buhari today

By Omoh Gabriel with agency reports

govs submit ministerial

zTo visit Buhari today zPresident-elect states conditions for appointment appointment.

One of the conditions is the candidates must be technically competent and of proven integrity. The second condition is the person must be loyal to the party.

APC faithful to be considered first

By this, a source said that Buhari indirectly laid emphasis on the need to field the names of founding members of the party and not defectors from other political parties.

The President-elect, it was gathered, also told the governors that he reserved the right to choose anyone from the three names submitted by each governor.

Lean cabinet

Vanguard also gathered that Buhari may run a lean cabinet where the status quo is 42

ministers.

A source, who craved anonymity, told Vanguard that Buhari may also eliminate the slots for ministers of state to reduce the cost of governance.

However, the source said that there is pressure on Buhari from his party to accommodate ministers of state to “at least compensate women in the party.”

“Left to Buhari, he wouldn’t have more than 20 ministers but there is a lot of pressure on him to use it to compensate the women,” the source disclosed.

Apart from compensating women and other party faithful, Buhari is also bound by the constitution to choose at least one minister from each state of the federation.

On whether he would toe that path, another source, who is a member of the National Assembly, said “unless, he would want to amend the constitution, he is obligated to

Meanwhile, APC governors would be meeting with the president-elect today.

Though the meeting appears to be a congratulatory one, Vanguard learned that issues relating to the party’s interests would be discussed.

Such issues include the lingering imbroglio surrounding the zoning of National Assembly leadership slots like Senate President and Speaker of the House of Representatives among others.

It was learned that zones jostling for the positions had been asked to meet at the zonal level with their National Assembly members to come out with a harmonised position on the issue to enable the Buhari/ Oyegun committee set up for that purpose to take a stand on it.

FG over-spent by N365.3bn between July-Dec 2014 ....as GDP grew by 13% —CBN

By Omoh Gabriel

L

AGOS— THE Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, yesterday, said the fiscal operations of the Federal Government in the second half of 2014 resulted in an over-spending of the budget

by N365.35 billion or 0.8 per cent of GDP, as against the proportionate projected budget deficit of N482.10 billion for the period and N325.10 billion recorded in the first half of the year.

This fact is contained in the Financial Stability report of the CBN released on Thursday but published yesterday on its website. The report said that “the deficit was financed mostly from privatisation proceeds.”

According to CBN, “the second half of 2014 also witnessed the commencement of a sustained decline in international oil prices, a development that signalled a decline in government revenue in 2015, given the traditional dominance of oil receipts in its revenue profile.

“The Federal Government’s retained revenue for the second half of 2014," the report noted, “increased to N1.95119 trillion, from N1.77127 trillion in the first half, but was lower than the budget estimate of N2.13404 trillion."

Analysis of the retained revenue showed that the Federal Government’s share of the Federation Account was N1.40394 trillion (71.9 per

COMMISSIONING: From left: Regional Retail Co-ordinator, Lagos and South-West, First City Monument Bank, FCMB, Limited, Ms. Funmilola Paseda; Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Kenneth Minimah and General Officer Commanding 81 Division of Nigerian Army, Major General Tamunomieibi Dibi, at the commissioning of 81 Division Officers’ Mess in Lagos. The renovation of the Officers’ Mess was supported by the FCMB. end December 2013 performcent); the VAT Pool Account, budgeted expenditure of ance. It was, however, 0.31 N55.62 billion (2.9 per cent); N2.61614 trillion for the percentage point below the the Federal Government second half of 2014.”

13.34 per cent recorded in the Independent Revenue was corresponding period of 2013.

N284.14 billion (14.6 per On the economy “Overall, growth in real GDP cent); SURE-P netted N97.76 According to the CBN report continued to be buoyed by billion (5.0 per cent); while on the economy, “provisional sustained expansion in the others, including excess data from the National Bureau non-oil sector, though it was crude and NNPC additional of Statistics, NBS, indicated moderated by the lull in the oil revenue, accounted for the that the domestic economy sector, owing to the drastic fall balance of N109.73 billion expanded further in the second in the international oil prices.

(5.6 per cent).” half of 2014. Gross Domestic The non-oil sector recorded The report said the “Federal Product, GDP, measured in real 15.06 per cent growth in real Government expenditure terms recorded a growth of terms in the second half of grew by 10.5 per cent to 13.03 per cent over the level 2014, compared with the 7.04 N2.31654 trillion, from in the preceding half year, in per cent decline in the N2.09637 trillion in the first 10 contrast to the 6.14 per cent preceding first half. half, compared with the decline in the first half against

L

AGOS — OIL eased toward $66 a barrel, yesterday, after reaching a 2015 high, as ample current supplies and weak Chinese factory activity countered expectations of a tighter supply and demand balance later this year.

The collapse of oil prices in 2014 has prompted expectations that supply growth in higher-cost crude producers such as the United States will slow.

On Friday, oil services firm Baker Hughes Inc. said the number of U.S. active rigs had fallen for a record 21 weeks in a row.

US oil production falling The meteoric rise in U.S. shale oil production has ended, easing a global glut and driving a rebound in crude prices from below $50 a barrel, according to crude trader and hedge fund manager Andrew J. Hall.

“We have now reached a turning point,” Hall said in a letter weekend to investors in Astenbeck Capital Management LLC, his commodities hedge fund. Growing demand and supply pullbacks “rendered all the doomsday forecasts selfdefeating.”

Oil production from Texas to North Dakota peaked at almost 10 million barrels a day in February and has been falling since then, Hall wrote. A drastic reduction in drilling rigs is starting to shrink U.S. oil output, according to government data cited by Hall.

That’s helped drive a 36 per cent rally in the past six weeks, and prices will continue to rise because it will be harder for producers to ramp up than it was to cut back, Hall said in his letter.

Lower crude prices have also boosted demand, while the risk of supply disruptions across the Middle East is growing amid sectarian tensions. West Texas Intermediate, the U.S. benchmark crude, settled at $59.15 a barrel Friday, marking a 3.5 per cent rise for the week. It fell 33 cents yesterday to $58.82 a barrel.

10 — Vanguard, TUESDAY, MAY 5, 2015

Airtel in retail partnership with Oando marketing

L

AGOS—IN a bid to deepen its retail footprints as well as bring its innovative mobile telecoms services and solutions closer to telecoms consumers, telecoms operator, Airtel Nigeria, has announced a strategic retail partnership with leading Oil & Gas Company, Oando Marketing.

According to both companies, the landmark agreement, which was signed yesterday in Lagos, will provide an opportunity for Airtel customers to access telecommunications solutions and services at over 300 Oando’ s retail outlets across the country.

Speaking during the MOU signing ceremony, Chief Sales Officer, Airtel Nigeria, Mr. Godfrey Efeurhobo, said the partnership with Oando will enrich and empower the lives of millions of telecoms consumers.

According to him, Airtel’s strategic alliance with Oando is proof of its unwavering commitment to bring innovative, relevant and affordable telecoms packages to the doorsteps of millions of Nigerians.

He noted that the partnership will further empower Nigerians with real-time mobile solutions be it voice or mobile internet to help them fulfill their communication potentials.

Also speaking at the event, the Chief Operations Officer, Oando marketing, Mrs. Olaposi Williams, said “We are elated about this partnership as it is the coming together of two great brands. We are glad that Airtel chose to partner with us, and we see this as the beginning of great things”.

Federal Task Force officers protest unpaid wages in Lagos

P forms. They alleged further that the forms were picked at the residence of a PDP chieftain, with a promise that they would be

By Esther Onyegbula yesterday at the office of the for their selfish political gains. in recognised National Human Rights The protesters carrying trained A G O S — Commission, Oshodi, Lagos, placards with offensive institutions in the country.

DISGRUNTLED equally protested against alleged inscriptions sang solidarity officers of the Subsidy extortion by some executives of songs, alleging that they paid outrageous sums before they Reinvestment and the programme.

The protesters accused their were employed, adding that Empowerment Programme (SURE-P) and Federal Task National officers and chieftains three years after resumption of Force under the management of of the Peoples Democratic Party, duties they were yet to be paid a Federal roads Management PDP, in Lagos of being dime.

They said at the authority, (FERMA) have responsible for subjecting them

By Olayinka Latona of the accused an unnamed Lagos to dehumanising condition and commencement State coordinator of the extorting money from them, programme in 2013, applicants AGOS State governor, programme of owing them three adding that the management was paid N32, 500 each for uniform Mr. Babatunde Fashola, using the SURE-P/FERMA job while additional N5, 000 was paid years salaries.

The officers, during a protest to exploit desperate job seekers for the procurement of the SURE- yesterday emphasised that compliance to law and order is the key indicator towards peace and progress of the nation.

Speaking during the opening ceremonies of Third Session of the 32nd Synod of the Diocese of Lagos, Church of Nigeria Anglican Communion, Fashola reiterated that any society where law and order is obeyed, majority of the people benefit while that society prospers.

Describing obedience to law as the foundation of democracy, Fashola urged Nigerians to understand that self governance does not mean the absence of law adding that Nigeria will experience great transformation if laws and order are adhered to.

In his words: “I see the issue of law and order as very important BRIEFING: Lagos State Attorney-General & Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Ade Ipaye (2nd not because I am a lawyer. If right), the Solicitor-General and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro, we look at Nigeria of today SAN (2nd left), Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Information & Strategy, Mrs. Oluranti Odutola and Nigeria of 30 years ago, (right) and the Director, Office of Public Defender, Ministry of Justice, Mrs. Rotimi Omotola (left) during the 2015 Ministerial press briefing in commemoration of the 4th year of the second the difference is law and order.

We are drilling more oil but term in office of Governor Babatunde Fashola at the Secretariat, Alausa, Ikeja, yesterday. we are not conservative.''

L

Law and order leads to prosperity – FASHOLA

L

MONEY LAUNDERING: Court adjourns Fani-Kayode’s case till June

By Innocent Anaba

L

AGOS—A Federal High Court sitting in Lagos, yesterday, adjourned till June 18 for judgment in the trial of a former Minister of Aviation, Femi Fani-Kayode, charged with money laundering.

Justice Rita Ofili-

Ajumogobia fixed the judgment following the adoption of final written addresses and arguments by the counsel to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC and the accused.

Fani-Kayode, whose trial began in 2008 before Justice Ramat Mohammed, was accused by the EFCC of laundering about N100

KUDIRAT ABIOLA’S MURDER: Lagos awaits appellate court’s directive

By Olasukanmi Akoni

L

AGOS—LAGOS State government, yesterday, said it is still pursuing the case against Major Hamza Al-Mustpaha and Alhaji Lateef Shofolahan, who were discharged and acquitted by an Appeal Court over the murder of Alhaja Kudirat Abiola, saying the case was pending in Supreme Court.

Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Ade Ipaye disclosed this yesterday in Alausa, Ikeja, at a briefing on the activities of his

ministry in the last one year.

Ipaye explained, “We have filed an appeal to the Supreme Court and the appeal is yet to come up. It is for that reason that we have not witnessed any update of the case.

“It is still pending in the appellate court and as soon as it is called up, residents of Lagos will be aware of what happens from there on.”

It will be recalled that the state government had earlier filed an appeal at the Supreme Court against the judgment of the Court of Appeal which discharged and acquitted Al-

Mustpaha and Shofolahan, absolving them of any guilt in the murder of Alhaja Kudirat Abiola who was shot dead in Lagos on June 4, 1996.

Ipaye explained that after a careful study of the two judgments of the Court of Appeal, the government concluded that there were grounds for appeal.

He said the step was taken to ensure that the victim’s family, the defendants and the society were not deprived of the last window of opportunity provided by the constitution for the resolution of the case.

million while he was the Minister of Culture and Tourism and later, the Minister of Aviation.

The laundered sum was, however, reduced to N2.1 million on November 17, 2014 after OfiliAjumogobia had dismissed 38 of the 40 counts leveled against FaniKayode by the EFCC for want of proof.

At the resumed trial of the case, yesterday, the EFCC prosecutor urged the court to uphold the remaining two counts and to, accordingly, convict Fani-Kayode.

It said that the former minister had failed to exonerate himself of the allegations.

Prosecution pointed out that the object of the charge was that Fani-Kayode transacted in cash sums above N500,000 which was the threshold stipulated by the Money Laundering Act. It said that Fani-Kayode had personally admitted making such transactions in his confessional statement of Dec. 22, 2008 to the EFCC. Prosecution said: “In this statement, he admitted that he transacted in cash above N500,000.

My Lord, this statement went in without objection by the accused

and the statement was voluntary.

“With the combination of this confessional statement and the statement of the investigating police officer that investigated the allegations, we rely on all of these to submit that we have discharged our burden that monies were received by the accused in cash and were not done through any financial institution.”

Prosecution argued that it had discharged its duty once it established that Fani-Kayode transacted large sums above the Money Laundering threshold, adding that it was left for FaniKayode to explain the source of the money.

But Fani-Kayode’s counsel, in his argument, maintained that the accused made no confession to the EFCC, adding that the anti-graft agency had failed to show that he actually accepted cash amounting to N1million as alleged in one of the counts.

He said the EFCC also failed to show to the court the person who handed over the money to the accused persons, adding that the case of the prosecution to succeed it must be proved beyond reasonable doubts.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, MAY 5, 2015 — 11

Impeached Ondo deputy gov, Olanusi now APC BoT member

By Dayo Johnson

A

KURE—THE embattled 73-year-old deputy governor of Ondo state Alhaji Ali Olanusi who was impeached last week has been appointed as a member of the Board of Trustees, BoT, of the All Progressive Congress, APC. This was contained in a letter signed by the secretary of the Party’s National Executive Committee, NEC, Hon. Mai Bala Buni.

Buni said Olanusi’s appointment as a BoT member took effect from July 4, last year.

The impeached deputy governor defected to the APC barely 24 hours to the last March 28 Presidential and National Assembly elections.

Alhaji Olanusi was later impeached following allegations of gross misconduct by the House of Assembly.

He has since been replaced by the former Agriculture Commissioner, Alhaji Lasisi Oluboyo.

The appointment of the former deputy governor looks like compensation for his ordeal after his defection from the PDP. However, the new BoT member has vowed to challenge the

By Evelyn Usman

T

WORKERS DAY: From left, Mrs Ophelia Alex-Iwuanyanwu, Head, Benefit Payments and Client Services, Palpensions; Miss Susan Oranya, Executive Secretary, Penop Pension Fund Operators Association of Nigeria; Mr Usman Suleiman, MD–FUG Pensions and Mrs Idu Okwuosa, Compliance Officers, Stanbic IBTC Pension, during the Workers Day Celebration at Onikan Stadium,Lagos. impeachment process in law court with his new position.

His appointment as a member of the party’s highest decision making body would last for four years.

The appointment letter said

that within the four-year tenure, the former Deputy Governor would work with other members of BoT to develop the party.

It advised him to liaise with other members of the board to work for the progress, unity and

development of the party.

Olanusi the letter stressed would work within the ambit of the constitution of the APC and take decisions objectively on behalf of the party in the interest and growth of the members.

FAYOSE’S IMPEACHMENT: Omirin asks court to drop anti-impeachment suit

By Ikechukwu Nnochiri

A

BUJA–ESTRANGED Speaker of the Ekiti State House of Assembly, Dr Adewale Omirin, has challenged the jurisdiction of the Federal High Court in Abuja to stop 19 Ekiti State All Progressives Congress, APC, lawmakers from impeaching the governor, Mr. Ayodele Fayose.

Omirin, has therefore, asked Justice Evoh Chukwu to hands off the anti-impeachment suit that was lodged before the court by seven members of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in the Ekiti State House of Assembly.

The plaintiffs in the suit marked FHC/ABJ/CS/3612015, are the seven- Dele Olugbemi Joseph, Ajibola Samuel Oyedele, Israel Olowo, Hon. Alex Ade Ojo, Adeyinka Adeloye, Adunni Modupe Olayinka and Ayoka Fatunmbi.

Aside, Omirin, the Inspector General of Police, the Ekiti State House of Assembly itself, and 20 others also joined as defendants in the suit.

However, only Omirin (the 2nd defendant) and the Clerk of the Ekiti State House of Assembly (the 21st defendant) entered appearance before the court over the matter yesterday.

Challenging the competence of the suit vide a preliminary objection yesterday, Omirin, through his lawyer Mr. Terence

Ogun APC senatorial candidate drags Kashamu to tribunal

Vembe,insisted that the FHC in Abuja lacks the territorial jurisdiction to adjudicate on an issue that pertains to the desirability or otherwise of Governor Fayose to remain in office as the governor of Ekiti state.

The embattled Speaker further contended that the provisions of section 97 of Sheriffs and Civil Processes Act, which mandates that the plaintiffs ought to have firstly seek the leave of the Court before filing such suit out of

jurisdiction.

Addressing the court through his lawyer, Omirin, maintained that neither himself nor his other APC brothers in the Ekiti State House of Assembly are bound to comply with any order from a court that ab-intio has no jurisdiction to entertain the primary case.

Counsel to Dr Adewale Omirin and the 18 other APC lawmakers, Mr Vembere filed preliminary objection, challenging the court jurisdiction to hear the case.

Osun Assembly members-elect receive Certificate of Return members-elect, the state Resident Electoral Commissioner, Dr SOGBO–THE 26 newly- Adekunle Ogunmola said now elected members of the that the election is over, the next State of Osun House of Assembly thing for the lawmakers-elect was were yesterday presented certificate of return by the service to the Independent National Electoral people.

The REC Commission INEC with a call on them to work hard for good described the governance and development of lawmakerselect as the state.

The ruling All Progressives members of the Congress APC won 24 out of the same family, urged 26 seats in the Assembly, while and the Peoples Democratic Party them to work the PDP won the remaining two for development seats.

Presenting the certificates to of the state.

By Gbenga Olarinoye

O

Meantime, Fayose and his deputy had last week Wednesday, withdrawn a similar suit that they lodged against the APC lawmakers, before the same court.

But responding swiftly to the pronouncement, the APC lawmakers said they were learned enough to understand what the court said.

Mr Wole Olujobi, Media assistant to factional Speaker, Dr Adewale Omirin, told Vanguard after the court session that; ‘’The court ruling on the maintenance of status quo as at April 23, 2015 is clear. By that date, the impeachment process had commenced. ‘’As to whether the parties should not do any other thing until May 21, it is the Constitution of Nigeria that will interpret whether the court can interfere with the ongoing legislative duties of Nigerian lawmakers.

HE Ogun East s e n a t o r i a l candidate of the All Progressive Congress APC , Prince Dapo Abiodun, has dragged Prince Buruji Kashamu of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP before the election tribunal sitting in Abeokuta, urging the court to hold that Kashamu did not win the election.

Abiodun, through his counsel, Alhaji Yusuf Ali, SAN, is contending in his petition, that the March 28, 2015 National Assembly poll that produced Kashamu was rigged.

He is further alleging that the PDP senatorial candidate induced voters with cash even before the voting started, adding that during collation of results, there were clear indication of manipulations in some areas.

He is also contending that that the number of those who voted in some polling units, exceeded the number of accredited electorate, adding that the election results on Forms EC8A, EC8B and EC8Cs did not correspond in many polling units identified in four local governments viz: Ijebu North, Sagamu, Remo North and Ikenne.

He notes that election did not take place in wards 5 and 7 in Sagamu and another ward in Ogun Waterside Local governments , as voters who turned out to cast their votes did not present their Permanent Voter’s Cards.

12—Vanguard, TUESDAY, MAY 5, 2015

2012 CHEVRON RIG EXPLOSION: Communities seek govt’s intervention for compensation

By Samuel Oyadongha

Y

E N A G O A — COMMUNITIES affected by the 2012 rig explosion at Chevron Nigeria Limited’s oilfields off the Atlantic coast of Koluama, in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, have called on all tiers of government to intervene in order to avert a looming crisis following the adamant posture of Chevron to the issue of compensation.

Prince George Ibobra, a community leader in Koluama, said that the view canvassed

by Chevron that there was no basis for compensation, was provocative and unacceptable.

“It is insensitive for Chevron to say that the rig explosion had no adverse effect on our communities. In addition to distorting the ecosystem, our fishing vocation has never been the same.

Apah attributes PDP's victory in Ughelli South to Utuama, Ideh, Gbagi, others

U

GHELLI South House Committee Chairman on Information and Public Petitions, Mr Sunday Apah, has said that the victory of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in Ughelli South Local Government Area, Delta State, in the March 28 and April 11 elections was possible because of the doggedness of the outgoing deputy governor of the state, Prof. Amos Utuama, Chairman, Federal Board of National Orthopedic Hospital, Enugu, Dr. Ernest Ideh, former Minister of State for Education, Olorogun Kenneth Gbagi, Olorogun John Oguma and others before and during the elections.

Apah, in a chat with journalists in his office in Ughelli South council secretariat, said: “The deputy governor and other leaders worked tirelessly to ensure that the PDP was victorious in Ughelli South council and even beyond.”

He commended the unity that existed among the leaders before and during the election which brought about the landslide victory of the PDP in the National and state Assembly elections .

“We no longer catch fish as the fire which lasted over one month wiped out the fishes.

Even the sea weeds on the ocean floor where the fishes feed and breed were killed.

The sea weeds contaminated by hazardous materials used to contain the blow out is what our fishermen catch instead of fishes. We call on government

to call Chevron to order, to maintain the existing peace in the area.

“We have been patient and been enduring untold hardship all this while. We are surprised that Chevron is washing its hands off the rig explosion,” Ibobra said.

He noted that the appeal to governments at state and

federal level became necessary following promises of assistance when the incident occurred.

He said that the communities were still hopeful that President Goodluck Jonathan will redeem his pledge to the community before the end of his administration on May 29.

Buhari/ Osinbajo’s victory best for Urhobo youths, says UYDC

F

OLLOWING the emergence of General Muhammadu Buhari as presidentelect, Urhobo Youth Democrat for Change, UYDC, yesterday, said that the Buhari/ Osibanjo’s victory was the best thing that has ever happened to the Urhobo nation and Nigeria in general.

In a communiqué by its Chairman, Kingsley Eboh, after its meeting, the Urhobo youths appealed to Buhari not to neglect Urhobos in the scheme of things, adding that they totally worked for his emergence.

Lower Niger group calls for referendum on self determination VISIT: Governor Seriake Dickson of Bayelsa State (left), presenting a souvenir to Team Leader, National Institute of Policy and Strategic Studies, (NIPSS) Course 37, Kuru, Jos, Major-General Johnny Hamakim, during a courtesy call at Government House, Yenagoa.

Ignore Emami's call to scrap Amnesty Programme, group urges Buhari

By Emma Amaize

W

ARRI—NIGER Delta Liberation Force, NDLF, founded by late John Togo, yesterday, urged the presidentelect, General Muhammadu Buhari (rtd), to disregard the call

by All Progressives Congress, APC, chieftain in Delta State, Chief Ayirimi Emami, to scrap the Presidential Amnesty Programme, PAP, for ex-militants of the Niger Delta region.

Reacting to Emami’s call, spokesman of the group, Mark Anthony, said: “Our attention has been drawn to a publication by a youth leader from Itsekiri ethnic nationality, Chief Emami, calling on the incoming administration to scrap the amnesty programme on an alleged ground of wastage.

“We are not surprised to read such statement from a person like Emami, who benefited maximally from the Niger Delta crisis. He may have been wrongly

counselled to join enemies of the Niger Delta to call on Buhari to scrap the amnesty programme.”

But Chief Emami, maintained his position, saying, “I insist that the call for sustenance of amnesty for ex-militants is unnecessary, as the gesture had turned out to be a continuous/partial giving out of money to youths from a particular ethnic nationality and sending them abroad for training without any visible impact on the Niger Delta and the nation at large.”

Osagie asks tribunal to cancel Edo South units in Edo South was senatorial election results polling characterized by multiple thumb

By Simon Ebegbulem

B

ENIN—MINORITY Whip of the House of Representatives and Edo South senatorial candidate of All Progressives Congress, APC, Mr Samson Osagie, has urged the National Assembly Election Petition Tribunal in Benin City, to cancel the entire election in the seven local government areas of the Edo South, over alleged rigging and manipulation of election results, unprecedented

acts of violence and acts which violated and breached the provisions of the Electoral Act, 2010.

He is contending in his petition before the tribunal, that the candidate of Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Matthew Urhoghide, was wrongly declared winner of the election by Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC. He is further contending that the conduct of the election in many

printing of ballot papers and stuffing of ballot boxes by “the agents of Urhoghide and PDP, coupled with outright manipulation of results.

Osagie in the petition by his counsel, Chief Adeniyi Akintola, SAN, is further contending that the declaration of Urhoghide as winner of the election by INEC, “is a clear violation of the electoral process because Urhoghide did not score the majority of lawful votes cast."

By Jimitota Onoyume

P

ORT HARCOURT—A group, Lower Niger Congress, NLC, has described the voting pattern in the last presidential election as a reflection of the realities of the moment with other regions ganging up against the Lower Niger.

The group, in a statement by Col Joe Achuzia (rtd), Fred Agbeyegbe, Tony Inadi and others, after their forum in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, noted that the structural imbalances in the Nigerian federalism created by her colonial master had created a situation of a master/servant relationship between the North and South.

The statement, reads: “The lopsided constitutional arrangement emplaced by the colonial authorities of the time simply created a masterservant union in which Southern Nigeria including the Lower Niger, was constitutionally subjugated to Northern Nigeria."

Vanguard, TUESDAY TUESDAY,, MAY 5, 2015 — 13

C M Y K

14—Vanguard, TUESDAY, MAY 5, 2015

PPA tasks Buhari on rule of law

BOKO HARAM: Nigeria to resume oil

exploration in Chad Basin

By Chris Ochayi

P

R O G R E SS I V E PEOPLES Alliance, PPA, yesterday, tasked President-elect, General Muhammadu Buhari, to ensure that his in-coming administration abided by the rule of law and tenets of modern day democracy in steering the affairs of the nation.

National Chairman of PPA, Comrade Peter Ameh, who gave the charge in a congratulatory letter to General Buhari and his Vice President-elect, Professor Yemi Osinbanjo, said the party was not in doubt that General Buhari knew the boundary between military might and democratic administration.

He said: “Nigerians have by the election entrusted their welfare and development of our father land to our president-elect.

“We urge and pray therefore that the President-elect rules by the rule of law and tenets of modern day democracy."

C M Y K

By Michael Eboh

T

HE NIGERIAN National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, yesterday, said it will resume the exploration of crude oil in the Chad Basin, following the improvement of security in the North-East region of the country.

Group Managing Director, NNPC, Dr. Joseph Dawha, who disclosed this in a statement by Mr. Ohi Alegbe, Group General Manager, Group Public Affairs Division, blamed the suspension of exploration in the region on insecurity, stating that it plans to resume activities there in the next couple of days.

Dawha, stated this at the 21st Annual General Meeting of Integrated Data Services Nigeria Limited, IDSL, the subsidiary of the NNPC that is carrying out the seismic data acquisition in the Chad Basin.

He said: “With the remarkably improved security situation in the north eastern part of the country, the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation is to resume oil search in the Chad Basin.

“Preliminary indications from the previous exercise so far are encouraging and we are going to

move back there.”

He described as unfortunate, the security situation in the North-east that led to the suspension, while he commended the security forces

on their recent success in the fight against the insurgents.

On the performance of IDSL, Dawha noted that in spite of the challenge of funding as a result

of the fall in crude oil prices, the company’s performance is encouraging as it recorded a 32 per cent growth in its revenue.

Nigeria fails to make world’s list of Foreign Investment Destination 2015

By Emeka Anaeto (Economy Editor)

D

ESPITE THE recent upsurge in positive global perception of Nigeria’s economic space, the 2015 outlook appears not yet positive for Direct Foreign Investments, DFI. The current DFI Confidence Index released, last weekend, fails to reckon Nigeria as one of the top 25 forecast destinations even as the index dropped South Africa from the 2015 list, thus leaving the entire African continent outside the beneficiaries of global private sector capital flow to the real sector.

The A.T. Kearney Foreign Direct Investment Confidence Index, established in 1998 and now in its 14th edition, examines overarching trends and ranks countries on how changes in their political, economic, and regulatory

systems are likely to affect FDI inflows.

It draws heavily from the reports of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development as well as direct reports from transnational corporations.

As in the past, this year’s index provides valuable insight into how business leaders regard the medium-term economic outlook.

Some of the key factors determining the ratings of the various countries include transparency of governments and corruption index which ranks highest with 25 per cent followed by tax system with 22 per cent and general security environment with 21 per cent.

Other considerations include efficiency of legal and regulatory systems, government incentives for investors, ease of moving capital into and out of the country, strength of investor and property

rights, quality of telecommunications electricity, transport and other infrastructure.

Following the rebased GDP in 2014 and the world acclaimed free and fair general elections this year, Nigeria had emerged as top rate economy in several leading economic agencies.

A recent Bloomberg report had rated Nigeria amongst top 20 world’s largest economy by 2030 while the country’s economy had consistently been on the top Africa’s destination FDIs in the past three years.

Total foreign capital imported into Nigeria in 2014 summed to USD20.8 billion, lower by USD576.6 million or 2.7 per cent from the USD21.3 billion imported in 2013.

The capital import figure represents value of foreign investments in Nigeria’s economy in the period under

Vanguard, TUESDAY, MAY 5, 2015 — 15

FRSC laments death of 500 children daily in road accidents

By Austin Ogwuda

E

NUGU—THE third United Nation Global Child Safety Week rally was held yesterday in Enugu with a call by state Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps, FRSC, Mr. David Mendie, on road users to ensure maximum safety of children, noting that no

fewer than 500 children die in road crashes worldwide everyday. .According to him, this has to touch the United Nation which led to the declaration of the children safety week.

“With the high rate of the road crashes that involved children, the UN decided to declare a week rally as to sensitize all road users by

educating them on how they could prevent children from road crash,” he said.

The FRSC boss also used the occasion to draw attention to road safety instruction which states that children below the age of 12 must not sit on the front seat of a vehicle but at the back seat with seat belt.

He said same rule also stipulated that children from age one to seven should seat on

child’s restraint at the back seat of the car.

He also pleaded with drivers in the state to obey traffic and road signs to avoid crashes on the road which might as well involve children, while the motorcycle riders were urged to ensure that the children they conveyed on their motorcycles who are of age wore helmets too.

Aba lawyer, APC chairman ask NLC factions to sheathe swords

By Eric Ugbor

A

BA—ABA-BASED legal practitioner, Donatus Ikpeogu, and the All Progressives Congress, APC, chairman in Abia State, Donatus Nwankpa, have called on the leadership of Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, factions led by Ayuba Wabba and Joe Ajaero to sheathe their swords and come together as a family in the interest of its members.

Ikpeogu and Nwankpa in separate interviews with our correspondent, feared that if the ongoing misunderstanding in the workers union was allowed to continue, it would make them prone to manipulation by any mischievous governors or government which would not be in the interest of the group.

“We believe that the problem in NLC is that things were not properly done the way it was supposed to have been done. ‘’We expect the NLC to go back and put their house in order. If the man that claims to have won feels that he has won the election, then let them go back and repeat the election and congress and let

true democracy reign in NLC so that we don’t continue to play the policy of the old. ‘’APC government is not ready to interfere with labour affairs we want every arm of the system to operate so that we have true democracy.

‘’That is why we have even told the people who are in the other party to remain in their party and give us a proper and objective opposition. So this idea of muddling everyone to one system is unacceptable”.

The APC chairman and the

legal practitioner corroborated with each other and agreed that the implication of what was going on in NLC would mean that the labour union would not have a single voice on issues that affect the union and the country.

ENOWNED SOCIAL critic and a chieftain of the All Peoples Congress, APC, Prince Nwaeze Onu, has asked the Ebonyi State governor elect, Engr.

David Umahi, to start his recent anti-corruption crusade by making public his assets declaration entries before he became deputy governor and the one he will declare before assuming office on May 29.

Reacting to a May Day speech delivered by the governor-elect, Onu wondered why Umahi was in a hurry to distance himself from an administration he had been part of for eight years. “ He had a free reign in the past

From left, Dr. Ayodele Ogunsan, Mr. Jumat Alli-Oluwafuyi, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, National Leader of All Progressives Congress, APC, and Managing Director of Pan NigeriaLimited, Alhaji Ibrahim Boyi, during courtesy a visit to the National Leader of APC, at Freedom House,Victoria Island,Lagos

eight years as a super deputy governor, why is he sounding as if he is coming from the moon? ‘’He promised the workers one 100 per cent pay rise during the

campaigns, why is he now talking about payment within available resources? ‘’Was it not the same reason the current governor was canvassing

C M Y K

with the workers when Umahi promised them 100 per cent increment? The tenure must not begin with a double-speak,” he noted.

Ebonyi govt reassures motorists of peace in Ezza-Ezillo communities

By Peter Okutu

A

BAKALIKI—EBONYI State government has reassured motorists and other users of Enugu-Abakaliki Expressway that peace has returned to troubled Ezza-Ezillo in Ishielu Local Government

Area of the state.

Recall that crisis started in both communities last week when Ezza detainees, who had been in prison custody for over a year, were released and went into the disputed land that caused crisis between them a few years ago without knowing it had been

Riella Direct opens online store AN ONLINE concierge service provider since 2014, Riella Direct Limited has launched a new online platform recently that will allow shoppers select and pay for

By Enyim Enyim

O

NITSHA—THE Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, and the Trade Union Congress, TUC, have called on Anambra State governor, Dr. Willie Obiano, to urgently establish Local Government Pension Management Board.

According to the unions, the board will take care of the new contributory pension scheme as provided in the state Pension Reform Law 2013.

Chairmen of both unions, Mr. Jerry Nnubia and Mr. Ifeanyi Okechukwu, in separate statements, also called on the governor to quickly pay the arrears of some workers salary of July to October 2014.

They noted that the board would supervise the operations and proper functioning of the new scheme.

“It is also important to notify His Excellency that our workers have not received any known record as evidence that their deducted money is being saved for their eventual retirement,” the NLC chairman said.

12 megawatts power plant ready for LFTZ

Onu tasks Umahi on campaign promises

R

NLC, TUC demand payment of workers' salary arrears

items online or on delivery, addressing an emerging need and establishing a new culture of online shopping experience.

Services offered include food

court, gift lounge, Riella online (shopping mall), wedding registry, speedy movers and errand express for making online shopping personal for users.

declared a buffer zone by the state government.

In a chat with Vanguard, the Supervising Commissioner for Information and state Orientation, Dr. Ifeanyi Ike, who gave the assurance, yesterday, in Abakaliki, noted that a joint patrol of the police and the military were already stationed in the area.

He warned trouble makers to stay off the zone, adding that anybody caught violating the resolutions reached by the stakeholders and the state government would face the full weight of the law.

By Olasukanmi Akoni

L

AGOS STATE government has completed a-12 megawatts power plants to provide steady electricity supply in the multi-billion Naira Lekki Free Trade Zone, LFTZ. Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Mrs. Olusola Oworu, disclosed this while giving an account of stewardship of her ministry.

She explained that aside the on-going construction of Dangote refinery at the zone, other high profiled investors had also indicated interest in the LFTZ, currently undergoing massive development.

“At present, a number of allocation request are also being processed by the ministry, while 500 hectares of land was allocated to an investor for site and service development in Parcel B,” she said.

16—Vanguard, TUESDAY, MAY 5, 2015

Silverbird Man of the Year Award 2014 in Lagos

From left, Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan,Governor of Delta State/Silverbird Man of the Year Award winner 2014; his wife, Roli; Dr. Akinwumi Adesina,Minister of Agriculture/Silverbird Extraordinary Achievement Award winner; Innocent Chukwuma,Chairman, Innoson Group of Companies and Mr. Ben Murray-Bruce,Chairman, Silverbird Group, during Silverbird Man of the year Award 2014, at Eko Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos, Sunday. Photos: Akeem Salau

Henry Odein Ajumogobia, Chairman of the Occassion (right), presenting Silverbird Lifetime Achievement Award to Dr. Philip Asiodu, former Minister of Petrolum, and his wife, Mrs Jumoke Asiodu.

Mrs Aisha Waziri Umar (left), receiving the Silverbird post-humous award for late Alhaji Ibrahim Waziri from Mrs. Awuneba Ajumogobia.

From left, Mr. Femi Adesina, President, Nigeria Guild of Editors; Alhaji Yusuph Olaniyonu, Ogun State Commissioner for Information & Strategy, and Hon. Chike Ogeah, Delta State Commissioner for Information.

Matthew Poko Opuoru,Commissioner Special Duties Desopadec (left), and Hon. Joel Bisina, Delta State Commissioner Special Duties, Abuja

From left, Dr. Benjamin Ohiaeri, Medical Director, First Consultant Hospital, Obalende, Albert Egbe, and Dede Mabiaku C M Y K

Governor Ayodele Fayose, Executive Governor of Ekiti State, (right), presenting Silverbird Man of the year Award winner 2014 to Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan as Silverbird Man of the Year, while his wife Roli looks on.

From left, Alfred Nwosu, Emma Agu, and Chief Don Ezeh,CEO, Donnia Anderson Consulting.

From left, Mr. Murray-Bruce, Dr. Adesina, and Senator Florence Ita Giwa

Vanguard, TUESDAY, MAY 5, 2015—17

N

O doubt about it, the North betrayed Goodluck Jonathan in the last election. The greatest ally of the North in Nigerian politics has been the South-South. Therefore, it was not asking too much for Jonathan to expect the North to return the favour under his administration; when he is clearly carrying the mantle of the South-South.

Jonathan did not take Northern support for granted. In his six years in office, he spent the overwhelming proportion of resources at his disposal on the North. The $1 billion Kashimbila Dam, one of the biggest projects handled by his administration, is in Taraba in the North. Jonathan built over 150 Almajiri schools in the North.

He revived Nigerian agriculture, to the primary benefit of Northern farmers.

Most of Jonathan’s political appointees were Northern. He entrusted a Northerner, Attahiru Jega, with INEC, bucking the tradition whereby INEC chairmen tend to come from the South-East. When the North complained about the Chief of Army Staff, Azubuike Ihejirika, Jonathan replaced him. When the North complained about Festus Odimegwu at the National Population Commission, Jonathan fired him. Nevertheless, when the election time came, the North betrayed Jonathan and the South-South.

Northern PDP governors secretly worked for Buhari’s victory. In Jigawa, Sule Lamido only paid lip-service to Jonathan’s campaign. In Bauchi, Isa Yuguda watched as Jonathan’s campaign train was stoned. In Niger, Babangida Aliyu did not care that no Jonathan poster was placed anywhere in the state throughout the campaign.

The blunder of these recalcitrant governors was in thinking they could be lackadaisical about the PDP at the federal level, but passionate about the PDP at the state level. They all ended up losing their states to the APC.

Retracting on promises In order not to scare off dodgy members of his party with his anti-corruption rhetoric, Buhari promised to let corrupt sleeping dogs lie if elected. APC party chairman, John Oyegun, declared that Buhari would not waste time going after embezzlers of public funds before 29th May, 2015. He said: “The future of the people of this country is too important for us to spend valuable time trying to dig into the past.”

But now that the election has been won, Buhari no longer feels any obligation to keep his word. Instead, he said on TV Continental that, unlike the Quran and the Bible, the APC position during the election is subject to change. The signs indicate that the APC is now inclined to engage in a vicious propaganda campaign of maligning the Jonathan administration and the South-South through mud-slinging probes.

Buhari now says he will re-

Cease and desist: No witch -hunts against the South-South visit the issue of the allegedly missing $20 billion from NNPC accounts. He said in Hausa to his Northern constituency: “Imagine a situation where the former CBN governor, who by God‘s grace, is now the Emir of Kano, raised an issue of missing billions of money, not in naira but in dollars, $20 billion.

What happened, instead of investigating whether it was true, they simply found a reason to remove him.”

In short, in spite of the forensic audit of NNPC accounts by the prestigious PriceWaterhouseCoopers, which concluded no money was missing, Buhari has already declared Diezani and the NNPC guilty and Lamido Sanusi innocent. He claims the matter was not investigated, which means PriceWaterhouseCoopers is not good enough for him. Who is he now going to ask to conduct a new probe when we already know the answer he wants?

Witchhunting What we have here is the beginning of a witch-hunt. One of the first questions of interest is where Buhari’s oil minister is going to come from. Within the context of the cynical view that the insistence of a cabal that power must return to the North is not unconnected to pending oil bloc allocations, the question remains whether our new oil minister must also be from the North.

In Nigeria, the FCT Minister is always from the North. However, the oil minister is not always from the South. The North has no oil, but it longs to control the lucrative oil industry.

Under Jonathan, oil minister Diezani Allison-Madueke has come under prolonged attacks and harassment, not only because she is a woman, but also because she is from the SouthSouth.

Under Yar’Adua, the Petroleum Minister, Dr Rilwanu Lukman was from Kaduna. The Group Managing Director of the NNPC, Sanusi Barkindo, was from Adamawa. The DirectorGeneral of the National Petroleum Directorate, Alhaji Bello Gusau, was from Zamfara. The Executive-Secretary of the Petroleum Technology Development Fund, Mustapha Rabe Darma, was from Katsina. Are

we in for a Northernisation of the oil industry again under Buhari?

If Buhari is now determined to probe the oil ministry under South-South stewardship, contrary to his campaign promise; he must also probe it under South-West stewardship. President Obasanjo doubled as his own oil minister for eight years.

If Buhari is now going to probe Diezani, then he must probe his new ally, Obasanjo, as well?

Otherwise, if care is not taken, Buhari’s war against corruption will quickly divide Nigeria along ethnic fault-lines.

Once you decide to probe the Jonathan administration, the Niger-Delta is going to insist on a probe of the Obasanjo administration. Once you probe the PDP, which represents Southern rule, there is going to be insistence that you probe Northern rule. Should Buhari decide to probe NNPC, the issue of his own tenure as petroleum minister and the 2.8 billion saga will also be brought up. He cannot apply today the discriminatory standard he used yesterday, whereby vice-president Ekwueme languished in jail while president Shagari relaxed under house arrest.

Hankering after the past suggests the APC is bereft of innovative policy ideas.

Witch-hunting Diezani is no substitute for lack of policy

If our president-elect wants to stay true to his election campaign promise, he should stick to the issue of passing the Petroleum Industry Bill expeditiously, instead of opening the Pandora’s Box of NNPC probes.

He should also look into the whole process of dismantling the NNPC itself, and selling it off. Hankering after the past suggests the APC is bereft of innovative policy ideas. Witchhunting Diezani is no substitute for lack of policy.

Press censorship The first thing General Buhari did on seizing power in 1984 was to declare in a television interview his determination to “tamper with the press.” The first thing he has done this time around, even before being sworn in as president, was to seek to impose a ban on the AIT. AIT is one of the press houses that did not support him during the election campaign.

Moreover, it is owned by Raymond Dokpesi, a South-South man.

History, they say, has a tendency to repeat itself. Those of us who were adults during the first coming of General Buhari took great pains to warn Nigerians of his antecedents. Those too young to know about him were convinced we were making up stories. Others denied the relevance of Buhari’s pedigree. One man tweeted: “Even if PDP shows a video of Tinubu and Buhari on AIT robbing the Central Bank of Nigeria, it won’t change our minds.”

A cease-and-desist order on Buhari’s censorship of AIT came thankfully from APC Central. Sane minds prevailed from the party’s headquarters, mindful that any attempt to curb the press this time around is likely to end Buhari’s honeymoon with the media immediately. Suffice to say the press operates everywhere as a tight union. Attack on one is deemed an attack on all.

APC-friendly press houses had a field day maligning Jonathan for over five years.

No one tried to muzzle them.

APC itself came up with all sorts of lies. APC publicity secretary for Lagos State, Joe Igbokwe, wrote a libelous and defamatory article against me entitled: “Behold the Wind Chaser called Femi Aribisala.” Igbokwe

claimed I am a registered member of the PDP, which is false.

Among other lies, he said: “In Osun Femi and his robbery gang came with helicopters, guns, bombs, jackboots, tanks etc. but ordinary people with bare hands stopped their open robbery.”

I was not in Osun during the 2014 gubernatorial election. I have no robbery gang. I have no helicopters, guns, jackboots, or tanks. I could have sued Igbokwe for all he has got. But I decided to let it pass. However, until called to order, our president-elect seems inclined to use the apparatus of the state to settle personal scores. This is a bad omen about his incoming administration.

Election offenders The same discrimination is already evident in the president-elect’s stated position visà-vis election offenders. President Jonathan was magnanimous enough to concede defeat in a flawed election. But APC is not prepared to let sleeping dogs lie. Despite now holding sway in 22 states to PDP’s 13, the APC continues to cause trouble everywhere. Once it is not declared the winner, the election must have been rigged.

The president-elect has joined the fray. He proclaimed his determination to prosecute election offenders. But he only enunciated this policy with reference states where APC is currently disputing the results. Accordingly, he instructed the governors of Edo, Imo and Rivers to document all offences alleged to have been committed.

These states happen to be those with APC governors; and in the South-South and SouthEast where the APC was routed. Are we going to get corresponding prosecutions in cases in the North, including the president’s home state of Katsina where, surprise surprise, more ghost-voters came out of the woodwork to vote in the lackluster governorship election than in the high-profile presidential election?

Mr. President-elect should be reminded that he is going to be president of all Nigerians; including especially those who did not vote for him. He should be very careful how he treats the South-South. Without a doubt, nerves are much frayed now in that geopolitical zone; which also happens to be the economic jugular of Nigeria.

My advice to him, for what it is worth, is that he should leave the sons and daughters of the South-South alone. Thanks to President Jonathan, we have just missed the bullet of the much anticipated post-election turmoil. This is no time to start stepping injudiciously on South-South toes in the name of anti-corruption. Upheaval in the South-South will be far more economically devastating for Nigeria, and for his vaunted presidential agenda, than what we have experienced under the onslaught of Boko Haram.

18 — Vanguard, TUESDAY, MAY 5, 2015 BY the last count, almost 700 women and children have been rescued from Sambisa Forest, where insurgents have made their base f0r attacks on Nigeria. There have been more revelations than the discoveries show. We are learning more about the forest. Some work needs to be done to ascertain where those rescued are from and possibly how they got t0 the forest which has been the dreaded base of the terrorists who hold North East hostage, and account for most of the bomb attacks in Nigerian cities as far as Abuja and parts in Kogi State.

Who were rescued? Where are they from? How did they get into the forest? How were they abducted, if that was the case? Could they be inhabitants of the forest? Did they play any role in the raging war?

The claims are that the attackers took them, killed their husbands and the grown up boys and kept the women and children.

Apparently, the rescued are not among the 279 secondary schools girls that were taken from Chibok, in Borno State, more than a year ago. Once the news of the rescue made the rounds, expectations were that

Sambisa Discoveries some of the Chibok girls would be among them.

They may still be, or in the next set to be rescued.

Combined attacks of soldiers from Nigeria, Cameroun, and Chad have put a lot of pressure on the insurgents. They have lost a lot of territories and the results have included securing places that were under insurgents and the rescue of the women and children. Improved supply of weapons and logistics has contributed to the successes after earlier unsuccessful attempts to purchase arms for the operations.

The United States of America and its allies maintained ambivalent postures on selling arms to Nigeria. Nigeria finally made the purchases from Russia, a decision that infuriated the Americans who have kept making unsavoury remarks about the battles in the North East, accusing the Nigerian military of human rights violations. America’s human rights records in the 20year-old war in Vietnam are not exactly sparkling, 40 years after the war and with thousands of books written and hundreds of films made promoting America’s “good war” against communism.

Findings in Sambisa raise questions about our national records of Nigerians and the implications for our safety. Thousands were abducted to Sambisa and Nigeria was “unaware”. People were not declared missing, and when “found”, we have no records to establish if they are Nigerians. Can we protect people we cannot count?

The rescued are more than the size of most Nigerian villages. How could they miss and we did not know? Sambisa is more - we should abridge the “celebrations”.

OPINION Uduaghan's 3rd term or Okowa's tenure? (2)

By Bobson Gbinije Continued from yesterday pg 18

I

N the speech made by political sage Chief Obafemi Awolowo at the first press conference he held at Ikenne on the 4th August, 1966, after his release from prison, he said “we have nothing to be ashamed of in all that has happened, as our detractors would wish. But we do need to have remorse in and demonstrate our shock at what had happened as well as express our profound grief and sympathy for the dead, the maimed and dispossessed, in all parts of Nigeria and to whatever political camps they previously belonged.” I also take solace in this eternal refrain of the sage and admonish Nigerians that we are already on a journey to deracinate the polity. As lovers of peace we will not say, “Macbeth has murdered sleep and he shall sleep no more” but we say, “Now Caesar be still.”

Now within the context of the title of this piece, there is no derogatory connotation. It simply implies that after such Spartan legal battles (still on), fighting, Hitleric propaganda through Delta Television and Delta Radio, Campaign banners, Handouts, Hairsplitting ambition and monetary inducements, what will Uduaghan do with the 'Golden Fleece' he has found in winning the governorship elections in Delta State for Senate Ifeanyi Okowa and the Ibori dynasty?

This is the moment of truth Uduaghan has a date with history. Will he make or mar the political career and leadership of Senator

Ifeanyi as Governor of Delta State? Will he, in the words of the Roman poet Pericles allow Okowa say “I met Rome of bricks, but shall leave it of Marbles” can Uduaghan allow Okowa to leave Delta State in Marbles? After the treacherous assassination of Julius Caesar by the conspiracy of members of the Senate including Brutus and Cassius, the ghost of Caesar seeking vengeance pursued them even to the battlefield at Philippi.

Brutus said as he was dying “Now, Caesar be still…”,it means Caesar now rest, you have your revenge and victory. So also do we believe that Uduaghan has his victory through the victory of Okowa.

It will be recalled that Uduaghan indicated his interest in becoming a senator, but was forced to beat a retreat and to avoid mudslinging from the murky waters of politics. His political strategy was further compounded and rubbished with the defeat of the PDP’s presidential candidate. But now took solace in the land slide victory of his political Man-Friday Governor-elect Senator Ifeanyi Okowa and the Ibori dynasty. We therefore hope that now that Okowa has won the governorship election (although still in court), he is now in a position to deal a death blow to crass underdevelopment in Delta

Now that Okowa has won, he should deal a death blow to crass underdevelopment

State notwithstanding whose ox is gored. The basic concomitants of development, which is Agriculture, Education, Housing, Road Construction and general welfare of Deltans will be robustly addressed by Okowa. He must revisit the areas of Warri/Effurun BRT, Okobia road and other abandoned projects in Delta State and ensure he makes a tangible impact.

He should stop playing to the gallery by halfbaked gimmicks and propaganda on Radio and Television. Let him make education free at all levels in Delta State, entrench free medical health care delivery system and increase the building of low cost houses in all the Twenty-five (25) local government areas in Delta State. Okowa should give room for debate in the Delta House of Assembly, instead of pecuniary lobbying. During Ibori/ Uduaghan tenure, they reduced the State Assembly Members to a galaxy of zombies, who danced to their whimsical caprices through lobby fees and sheer intimidation.

Let us see the beauty of democracy in action by encouraging debates and intellectual discourse. Okowa has a date with history, he has to be his own man, notwithstanding the fact that PDP’s ruthless and remorseless rigging has turned Delta State into a ONE PARTY STATE. The bandwagon effect of concentrated violence through political thuggery will now revert to the larger society. With minimum possible delay,employment must be created for political thugs and miscreants, otherwise, they will turn their criminal intelligence and skills on the larger society, making Delta State and nay Nigeria the Mecca of criminals and deaths. Now that Okowa has won, it is

up to him to use this victory as a pedestal to build his political career and future. Let him be compassionate enough to put in place a broad based government pitched on merit and good conscience.

Even though we still have the electoral tribunal’s stage to cross before May 29, we can unquestionably say that the general elections 2015 have come and gone. It has gone down in the records that the ruling People’s Democracy Party (PDP) lost the elections by general political configurations.

Its presidential flag bearer, President Goodluck Jonathan, lost graciously as he was magnanimous in defeat by congratulating President-elect Muhammadu Buhari. On the other hand, the All Progressives Congress (APC), which had retired Major Muhammadu Buhari as its flag bearer, won the 2015 presidential Elections.

The prophetic admonitions of the great Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe becomes apt. He said after the massively rigged elections of 1979 by the National Party of Nigeria (NPN), which has now been cloned into the PDP that “I see my country on the brink of dictatorship, because of the arrogance of power exhibited by the party in power throughout. I am supremely confident that Almighty God will frustrate their knavery and ultimately expose their machinations and consign them to the cabbage heap of forgotten tyrants.

History will continue to vindicate the just and shall punish the wicked.” All other parties that contested the election should take heart.

Concluded

*Mr. Gbinije, a social critic, wrote from Warri, Delta State.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, MAY 5, 2015— —19

South Africa's xenophobia: Any lessons learnt?

By Sunny Ikhioya

X

ENOPHOBIA - the hatred for strangers and foreigners has become the most talked about in recent times. No thanks to news and pictures streaming live from South Africa. One begins to wonder if this is the same Nelson Mandela's country, a country that owes its present rise in world status to the efforts of foreigners.

First, with the whites who came from Europe and all over the world to do business and settle.

Next, is the rest of black Africa, with Nigeria at the fore front, fighting tooth and nail to get rid of the much hated apartheid regime. What an irony! That South Africans now ask foreigners to leave their country in the most uncivilised manner beats the imagination.The pictures are gruesome; humans roasted like rams, defaced and permanently scarred, such inhumanity of man to man is beyond reasoning.

As the world focusses on the happenings in South Africa, it is hoped that the officials of the International Criminal Court (ICC) would have sent their representatives there to record details and ensure that the culprits are brought to justice. It is an international crime and they must act with dispatch. It is not only when it concerns Nigeria and neighbouring West

African countries that we see the ICC flexing its muscles. It must take action now, so that it will serve as a deterrent against future attempts in that direction. South Africa is a relatively developed country and inhabits a reasonable population of whites, let us hope that the full weight of international justice will be brought to bear on the culprits. They did it in the open and their faces were live on television across the globe. If president Jacob Zuma refuses to present the culprits for prosecution, he should be held responsible.

Having made the above point, we must analyse how all of these concerns our country Nigeria, a country that is open to all - race, tribe, gender, nationalities - free entry and exit, open and friendly to strangers, the one that will carry the cross of any African country in distress, where ever that may be- Zimbabwe, Congo, Sudan, Liberia, Sierra leone, Cote d ivoire, South Africa, yes even South Africa, etc. A country that allows everyone to do business without restrictions, even simple businesses as Clearing and Forwarding are being done by foreign nationals like the Chinese, Lebanese and Indians. A country that allows foreigners to withdraw their investments overnight without restrictions, even when such actions cause the fall of the capital

market and a huge devaluation of our naira, a country that allows foreigners to go directly to our retail markets like Balogun and others across the country to embark on direct retailing thereby eliminating the Nigerian middle men. It is an irony that citizens of this warm and friendly country are treated like outcasts in other lands.

Can Nigeria learn any lesson from this? Has providence given us the opportunity to correct our wrongs, especially as it concerns our foreign policies? What actions should be taken to prevent the harassment of Nigerians in foreign countries? Why are Nigerians always a target of xenophobic attacks? Where and whenever foreigners are maltreated,

When a country is truly independent, her citizens get respect abroad

Bequeathing a legacy in Housing finance

By Bashir Ibrahim Hassan

P

RIMARY Mortgage Banks (PMBs) are the temples of mortgage financing and their CEOs the high priests.

In nine and half years one such temple called ASO Savings and Loans Plc has these results to show: a. Funded the development of 5000 houses across Nigeria; b. Helped 15,000 Nigerians own houses through mortgage facilities; c. Boasts of over N100 billion balance sheet and over N20 billion shareholders’ fund of tiers one and two.

The high priest is Mr. Hassan Tanimu Musa Usman, the 47-year-old CEO of ASOSavings & Loans Plc., who has few months to relinquish the enviable position.

But his cumulative knowledge and experience in the mortgage industry will continue to be in demand as the industry is set to blossom, especially, with the coming of the Nigerian Mortgage Refinancing Company (NMRC), which is poised to provide the liquidity the mortgage industry in Nigeria has been yearning for.

Already, Hassan, as his colleagues call him, sits on the board of the NMRC and his bank holds a handsome equity in the public-private partnership initiative of the President Goodluck Jonathan administration. With 23 branches spread across the country, ASO is a clear market leader in the industry.

However, despite the efforts of PMBs like ASO Savings, the delivery of adequate and affordable housing in Nigeria, over the years, has not met the desired target. Today, Nigeria with a population of over 170 million people, is facing a national housing deficit of about 17.5 million units, and requires a minimum of additional one million housing units per annum to reduce C M Y K

that deficit.

In 2012, the World Bank published an assessment of levels of financial inclusion around the world in the form of the Global Financial Inclusion (Global Findex), which indicated that 30 percent of Nigerians over the age of 15 has an account at a formal financial institution. It also indicated that only two percent of Nigerians over the age of 15 has a loan from a financial institution, and almost none (0.6 percent overall) has an outstanding loan to purchase a home.

Borrowing for home construction is more common, although still miniscule: 1.7 percent overall, or 1.5 percent of the top 60 percent of income earners and 1.9 percent of the bottom 40 percent of income earners had a loan for home construction.

This was re-echoed by Co-ordinating Minister for the Economy and Minister of Finance, Dr.Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, recently when she said: “Although we have 84 primary mortgage banks (PMBs) and 20 commercial banks, most Nigerians typically rely on private savings to pay for their homes. The size of the mortgage

At mature stage will mean ability of the industry to link the housing market with the capital market and the bond markets, to provide more affordable housing for Nigerians

Nigerians are easy targets. The question is why? the answer lies in our adventrous spirit. The Igbo are traders, ao are the Ogbomosho Yorubas; the Fulani nomads are found in countries all over the world. So why do we not receive the same treatment and hospitality that we give to others? Is it that our foreign representatives are not doing their job properly? For example, Nigeria virtually threw her weight behind South Africa during the apartheid era, taking on mighty Britain and America in the process, granting asylum and scholarships to freedom fighters at considerable risk and cost, but what have we got in return? Jealousy and hatred.

South African businesses thrive in Nigeria, creating a great boost to their economy but what do we get in return? Disrespect.

So, what is to be done? In strategy planning, we are taught to focus on our strength, have we used it to the advantage of our citizens living abroad? In international politics, there are reciprocal gestures, do our representatives insist on Nigerian getting it's due reward or are we always the 'fall guys'?

There is nothing wrong in people travelling out of the country, to explore, acquire education and do business but when a group of travellers are constitute themselves as nuisance to others, the authorities have a duty to halt the crowd. Simply put, Nigeria must start instituting structures that will attract our

market has grown from N54 billion (US$342 million) in 2006, to about N224 billion (US$1.42 billion) in 2011. Yet, this still accounted for only roughly 0.5% of GDP. For our commercial banks, mortgage loans accounted for less than 1 percent of their total assets.”

To the key players in the industry, like ASO Savings, underneath these realities lie great opportunities. This is attested to by the National Bureau of Statistics which reported in 2014 that the real estate market contributed 8.02 percent to GDP in 2013, and the building and construction industry 3.12 percent for the same period. The figures may seem small, given the nation’s high rate of urbanisation, at an estimated 3.8 percent. However, the good news is that both sectors are growing rapidly -- real estate by 11 percent and building and construction by 13 percent between 2012 and 2013.

Overall, the Nigerian financial system is also becoming more sophisticated with deeper penetration of the insurance and pension industry. In general, as of December 2013, the country’s financial system grew by 10 percent in terms of operators; with 21 commercial banks, six development financial institutions (DFIs), 82 Primary Mortgage Banks (PMBs), 820 Microfinance Banks (MFBs), 61 finance companies, and 2,889 Bureaux de Change (BDCs).

At the 6th Global Housing Finance Conference in Washington held in May last year, Okonjo-Iweala outlined four interrelated issues that needed to be addressed to unlock the full potential of the housing market in Nigeria: •First, to maintain conducive macroeconomic policies, which provide for stable and low inflation; low interest rates; and stable exchange rates; • Second, to improve access to long-term finance, in particular by deepening liquidity of the housing finance market; • Third, to simplify transactions in land

youths and encourage them to remain in the country, let us look inwards for solutions, potentials abound.

We needed to be relatively free economically. Countries like South Korea, Taiwan, China, Malaysia, Singapore and others are basically free in this direction. Why can't we do it with the abundance of talents we have here? When a country is truly independent, her citizens get respect abroad.

The only way to halt the drift is to create jobs for our youths.

Time was in this country when European countries begged Nigerians to visit without visa.

Until we learn to respect ourselves, we will not get the respect we deserve.

We need to begin to see Nigeria first as the foundation of our foreign policy before any other.

We have served ECOWAS, the African Union, United Nations organisations in both war and peace times without reciprocal returns. It is now time to serve ourselves.

It is now also a challenge for our government to monitor the rate at which our youths drift out of the country. I still believe that so many opportunities exist in this country. It is left to our governments, federal and state to create the enabling environment. *Mr. Ikhioya, a commentator on national issues, wrote from Lagos.

registration and foreclosure processes; and • Fourth, to promote good quality and efficient building and construction in the country at reduced costs, underscoring the need to address the existing supply-side concerns in producing houses at affordable costs; and also investing in the training of skilled labour for the housing sector.

Already actions are being taken on all these four fronts. In particular, the key players in the mortgage industry are happy with the establishment of the $300 million-capital base NMRC, which is essentially a re-financing institution that provides PMBs with increased access to liquidity and long-term funds. By deepening the available liquidity in the housing finance market, the NMRC will help to bridge the funding costs for residential mortgages in the country. Of the $300m sum, about US$250 million will be disbursed in instalments to NMRC as Tier 2 Capital subject to various performance indicators. Another US$25 million is also allocated for the establishment of a Mortgage Guarantee Facility for lower income borrowers; while US$25 million will support the development and piloting of Housing Microfinance Products.

In a recent interview Hassan enthused about the NMRC’s promise in these words: “Creating an NMRC means that we could use our short-term money and create a long term mortgage asset, sell those assets in NMRC. NMRC would give us the cash, we would value that cash and do similar mortgages. So, it also means we could do more activities in the mortgage market, in much longer terms. We could expand whatever we are doing at the moment by expanding the mortgages between 15 to 20 years, rather than doing just 5 to 10 years, which means that people can afford this aspect of development” •Mr. Hassan, a finance expert, wrote from Abuja.

20 — Vanguard, TUESDAY TUESDAY,, MAY 5, 2015

Road challenges in Lagos: Residents call for govt’s intervention •As LSPWC takes road upgrade to inner communities

By Olasunkanmi Akoni

W

HILE the outgoing government in Lagos State prides itself as having performed creditably in the area of construction and rehabilitation of roads, many Lagosians think otherwise and have been expressing their displeasure in this regard. Indeed, there have been so much hue and cry from Lagos residents over the parlous state of many roads belonging to federal, state and local governments in the state.

The complaints of many over the development derive the untold hardship to motorists, residents and other road users as quality man hours are daily lost to the resulting traffic gridlock. Apart from that, many bad roads or failed sections of such roads have become deathtraps as tragic accidents on them them are known to have claimed many innocent lives.

Such roads include IyanaEjigbo Road, Ladipo Auto Market Road, Daleko Road, Ipaja Ayobo Road by Jakande Estate, Apapa-Oshodi Expressway, among others.

Neglect of the area The roads are said to have remained the same in spite of claims by the Lagos State Public Works Corporation, LSPWC, which was established in 2010 by Governor Babatunde Fashola, that it had been up and doing in repairing and maintaining roads in the state. In fact, one Mr. Akeem Arowolo, a resident in Oshodi, accused the state government of neglecting the area, especially in road infrastructure. “Since I moved to Mafoloku, the roads have remained in bad condition without any government intervention.”

Also, Mrs. Asabe Alex, a resident in Ejigbo, said residents suffer untold hardship everyday while passing through the IyanaEjigbo Road, adding that the situation got worse since a contractor abandoned the reconstruction work on the road.

She, therefore, urged the outgoing government to come to their aid before the end of its tenure.

LSPWC’s intervention: But LSPWC General Manager, Mr. Gbenga Akintola, believes that the complaints are sometimes exaggerated, adding that his C M Y K

*Gbenga Akintola, GM, LSPWC

•Obafemi Awolowo way Ikeja...Under rehabilitation corporation has been doing its level best to address road demands in spite of daunting challenges. He added that the LSPWC is determined to bridge the gap and has sprung into action by moving into the inner roads that serves as feeder roads to the major roads.

According to him, between year 2010 and 2015, a total of 4,104 roads were worked on by the corporation, which is a significant improvement. He attributed this to the fundamental changes and innovations that had been introduced.

This feat, he disclosed, was made possible through Governor Fashola’s assistance in the procurement in 2010 of important and necessary state-of-the-art equipment to enhance the capacity of the work force. Taking off with just two tractors and a pay loader, it gradually increased its equipment fleet to more than 60 heavy duty and medium equipment.

Interlocking paving stones for road maintenance was incorporated into the road maintenance approaches, especially on roads in waterprone areas or places with severe drainage challenges. This process, it has been established, last longer than just applying the asphalt premix which gets easily damaged.

Mr Akintola said in order to consolidate this method in a more efficient way, the corporation established paving stones and kerbs production factories in its yards in Ojodu-Berger and Badagry.

He added that to expand its

maintenance activities to efficiently cover all nooks and crannies of Lagos, the LSPWC proposed and received Governor Fashola’s approval to set up two new asphalt plants in Imota (Ikorodu axis) and Ajido (Badagry axis). These two plants have production capacity of 160 tons of asphalt per hour. While the one in Imota was commissioned by Fashola in February 2014, that of Badagry is presently awaiting commissioning even though it has started full operation since December 2014.

Interestingly, the Imota plant covers over 420 roads located in Ikorodu, Epe, Ibeju-Lekki, Ikorodu and part of Eti-Osa Local government, while that of Badagry is to cater for over 400 roads in Ojo, Amuwo-Odofin, Ajeromi-Ifelodun and part of Alimosho local government areas.

The Imota plant covers over 420 roads located in Ikorodu, Epe, Ibeju-Lekki, Ikorodu and part of Eti-Osa Local government

Vanguard Metro, VM, was also informed that before Akintola came to the saddle, LSPWC was not involved in fixing of manhole covers and gratings. However, due to public outcry on the danger posed by removal and vandalisation of the steel-made manhole covers and gratings by some unscrupulous persons, the corporation researched into and introduced a new type made of recycled plastic which brought zero market value and thereby dissuade those who usually remove them to sell at the steel market from doing so.

As a result, the corporation has used this product to fix many manhole covers and gratings across the state in phases.

Between 2011 and 2014, a total of 591 manhole covers and grating were replaced, while replacement of 492 in the third phase is presently on-going.

LSPWC under Akintola is said to have been re-engineered and equipped to carry out its functions day and night, at weekends and even during public holidays. This new orientation, it has been claimed, helps it maximise efforts during the dry season when road maintenance work can be easily carried out without inhibitions from rain.

It also allows for emergency operations on road defects that pose serious threat to life. During night operations, traffic jam that usually characterise roads that are being worked on during the busy hours of the day can be easily avoided.

However, sometime in 2012, the state government, was

compelled to beef up the capacity of LSPWC with the result that certain roads were assigned to the corporation for full scale construction involving drainage work, road surfacing, culverts as well as installation of street lighting facilities and lane marking. The huge benefit to tax payers derives from the fact that such works are done via direct labour approach, thereby helping government to cut cost significantly.

Some of the roads done under such arrangement are Emmanuel Kolawole Street (Somolu), Soluyi Street (Kosofe), Ladipo Kuku, Allen (Ikeja), Oba Adeboyega (Epe), Oshundairo Street (Agege), Oluodo Road ( Ikorodu) and Jamiu Alli Balogun (Apapa) amongst others.

Corporate identity Under Mr. Akintola leadership of the LSPWC, a logo, VM was told, was developed giving the corporation a distinct corporate identity which helps members of the public to easily identify its officials whenever they are at work.

Stemming from the logo is the official yellow colour which is the bedrock of the branding of men, machines and equipment used by the corporation. This has achieved the purpose of repositioning the agency as a professional outfit and to also take ownership of its operations rather than in the past when it was usually mistaken for LAMATA, FERMA and other MDAs carrying out similar functions.

At the beginning of the repositioning effort, a new vision and mission statement was crafted, circulated and shared by all members of staff and other stakeholders. The several innovations introduced brought about a boost in the morale, commitment and by extension productivity of the members of staff.

Abuse/Prosecution: Arising from these developments, over 30 persons were said to have been brought before the magistrate in 2014 and made to pay fines for various offences on activities that can lead to road damage.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, MAY 5, 2015

$132 . 50

-0.95

$2,950.00

2. 00

12. 61

-0.30

$66. 23

58.83 CURRENCY BUYING

AWARD: From left: President, Business Education Examination Council, Mazi Mike Okereke; Director General, ITF, Dr. Juliet Chukkas Onaeko and Senior Management Consultant, The Management School, London, Dr David Demetrius, during the presentation of award to the ITF in Lagos.

— 21

DOLLAR 196 POUNDS 302.4476 EURO 219.5004 FRANC 209. 4465 YEN 1.6484 CFA 0.3096 WAUA 273. 1249 RENMINBI 31.5926 RIYAL 52.2639 KRONA 29.4021 SDR 275.6544

-0.23

-0.32

CENTRAL 196.5 303.2192 220.0604 209.9808 1.6526 0.3196 273.8217 31.6737 52.3972 29.4771 276.3576

197 303.9907 220.6203 210.5151 1.6569 0.3296 274.6737 31.7547 52.5305 29.552 277.0608

CBN Exchange Rate as at 04/05/15

Six banks top human capital value-added in 2014

By Omoh Gabriel

S

IX Nigerian banks have been identified as having the highest positive human capital value-added for Financial Year 2014 down from eight that made it in 2013. A research conducted by Thaddeus Investment Advisors & Research Ltd has shown that the six top value adding banks were among the top ten in the country.

According to Thaddeus Investment Advisors & Research Ltd. the banks are UBA, GT Bank, Sterling Bank, Unity Bank, First Bank, FCMB, ETI, Zenith, Access and Diamond bank.

The research said that UBA emerged top to reclaim its position having been 1st in 2012, 2nd in 2013 and 1st in 2014. The report said that the last time UBA came 1st; the bank’s stock had the best investment return for 2013 among banks returning 94 per cent. It said that this year may just be the same.

GT Bank was named second this year but was 1st last year. According to the report “Its value added declined by 7 though financial productivity dropped by only 6 per cent. “We see this as a sign of employee discontentment with certain realities within the company. S t e r l i n g Bank came third for the second time in a row in the analysis while spending the lowest amount on its employees on average for the third consecutive year in the Nigerian Banking industry.

The report said that Unity Bank moved up eight spots from 12th. This is a bank to add to your watch list. First Bank on the other hand moved down one spot from 4th to fifth as it Human capital valueadded declined from +4 to +3 despite average human capital expense rising by 11 per cent in 2014.

C M Y K

FCMB it said moved up one spot from 7th to 8th. Its human capital valueadded remains at +1 for the second year in a row while average human capital expense rose by 9 per cent in FY 2014.

The report said that the last time UBA came 1st; the bank’s stock had the best investment return for 2013 among banks returning 94 per cent

According to Thaddeus Investment Advisors & Research Ltd ETI moved up one spot from 8th to 9th as its human capital value-added remained at zero for the second consecutive year. This implies human capital is as efficient as they are remunerated. The Nigeria cluster has started turning into an asset after being a liability since the Oceanic bank acquisition. Financial productivity of its human capital rose by a very impressive 131 per cent from FY 2013-2014. Ecobank did some staff rationalisation in 2013 and increased the headcount of its Nigerian cluster by 30.5 per cent in 2013. In $ terms, average human capital expense declined by 2 per cent in 2014. ETI finally appears to be getting a proper handle on its Nigerian cluster. This bodes well for the bank if sustained.

Zenith the report said moved down two spots from 6th to eight as the bank’s value-added declined from 2 to 0 despite a 21 per cent increase in its average human capital expense while its headcount remained flat from FY 2013-2014. Over the past two years, we keep seeing banks increasing their human capital expense and getting punished for it.

Access on its part moved up one spot from 10th to 9th as the bank reduced headcount by 19 per cent in 2013 and a further 20 per cent in 2014' while average human capital expenses are rising 26 per cent increase in average human capital expense in FY 2014 either as a result of motivation for others to stay behind and/or there are less people doing more work who may now be better remunerated to carry on the expanded workload.

Dangote Cement production hits 30m tons across Africa

P

RESIDENT of the Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote has disclosed that the Dangote Cement annual production across Africa now stood in the region of 30 million Metric Tons, a feat that is earning Nigeria respect among the comity of nations.

Speaking during the just concluded Kaduna International Trade Fair, Dangote said his conglomerate plans big for the African economy, saying Africans must look inward and put their human and natural resources to best uses, rather than political conflicts.

Dangote, who was represented by the Group’s Executive Director, Engineer Mansur Ahmad, said the Group’s cement production has since surpassed Nigeria’s average total consumption of around 20milion metric tons, even as he said that Nigeria under-consumes the cement product when compared to other

African, Asian and European countries.

He said the company has commenced production of the cement in some African countries which include Senegal, Cameroon and South Africa, adding that by the time it completes its projects in eleven other African countries, the conglomerate’s total production would have surpassed 50mmt. He said the Dangote Cement in Nigeria controls about 65 per cent market share; and about 30 per cent of the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE). The investment in other African countries according to him is strategic and that they were aimed at supporting governments across the continent by creating thousands of jobs for the people.

Dangote said his involvement in petrochemicals, fertilizers and Petroleum Refining was another bold step at helping to reduce poverty in

Africa through promotion of gainful employment and that on completion of all the projects there will be massive employment opportunities. He stated that the commencement of refinery and other petrochemicals will make Nigeria to become independent arguing the present development where Nigeria has to depend on other countries for refined products despite huge crude resources were unacceptable.

While commending the organizers of the Trade Fair, Mr. Dangote expressed optimism about Nigeria’s economic rebound, adding that both outgoing and incoming leaders have done Nigerian proud by ensuring that the country remains peaceful for businesses to thrive.

He said the conglomerate is investing heavily in petroleum sector, fertilizer and agriculture to make Nigeria self sufficient in food production.

22 — Vanguard, TUESDAY, MAY 5, 2015

,

The 2014 year-end audited results of Nigerian Breweries Plc, which was released to the Stock Exchange recently showed that revenue dropped to N256.37 billion or 0.8 per cent from N268,613 recorded the previous financial year.

INVESTOR ,

TOP 10 PERFORMING STOCKS

BY PETER EGWUATU

D

angote Cement Plc led the top ten most active stocks last week. The shares of the company rose by N9.50, representing 5. 4 per cent increase. Specifically, Dangote Cement shares which opened penultimate Thursday at N175.00 closed last week Thursday at N184.70 per share.

Trailing behind Dangote Cement on the price gainers chart was Nigerian Breweries, NB Plc appreciating by N6.01, followed by Union Homes Savings and Loans Plc gaining N5.90. Presco Plc, garnered N4.09, Unilever Nigeria Plc (N2.31); Guinness Nigeria (N2.00).

Others in the top ten chart include: Nestle Nigeria (N2.00); UACN Nigeria Plc (N2.00), Glaxo Smithkline Consumer Nigeria Plc (N1.55) and Beta Glass Company Nigeria (N1.30).

Shareholders of Dangote Cement at the sixth Annual General Meeting (AGM) commended the Board for the N102 billion dividend recommended for the 2014 financial year, which translated into N6.00 per share and pay out ratio of 63.5 per cent.

Dangote Cement ended 2014 with a revenue of N392 billion up from N386 billion in 2013.Administrative expenses rose from N25.9 billion to N274 billion, while sales/distribution expenses increased from 35.6 billion to N37.4 billion. Finance cost soared by 140 per cent from N13.7 billion to N32.9 billion.

Profit before tax stood at N184.7 billion, compared with N191 billion. But the company paid an income tax of N25.2 billion in 2014, as against a tax credit of N10.5 billion 2013. The N25 billion tax charge resulted from the expirations of the tax exemptions on some lines of the company ’s business.

Consequently, the company ended the year with a Profit After Tax, PAT of N159.5 billion, compared with N201 billion in 2013.

Nigerian Breweries appreciated by 3.9 per cent to close at N157.01 on Thursday from N151.00 penultimate Thursday.

The 2014 year-end audited results of Nigerian Breweries Plc, which was released to the Stock Exchange recently showed that revenue dropped to N256.37 billion or 0.8 per cent from N268,613 recorded the previous financial year.

As against declining revenue, direct cost rose by 1.0 per cent to N130. 79 billion in difference to N132.36 billion previous year. Similarly, distribution and administrative overhead increased by 2 per cent to N70 billion as against N69.38 billion in 2 0 1 3 .

I n c o m e from other sources went down by 17 per cent from N 2 . 0 8 billion recorded in 2013 to N1,72 billion in the year under review.

Nigerian Breweries controls

about 62 per cent of the Nigerian beer market and has been strong in efforts at consolidating its position. The recent conclusion of its acquisition of Consolidated Breweries was part of its plan to maintain its dominance of the Nigerian beer market. However, competition

is becoming stiffer in addition to the entrant of many brands, struggling to share into the company ’s market share.

Growing competition, market and operational challenges are impacting on the cost of production and dragging revenue down.

In spite of the decline in performance, the board of directors had proposed a final dividend of N3.50 in addition to the interim dividend of N1.25 earlier paid. This brings the total dividend payable in the 2014 financial year to N4.25.

The third top price gainers, Union Homes Savings & Loans Plc appreciated by 1180 per cent, from 0.50 per share to close at N5.90. Union Homes was taken over recently by ASO Savings and Loans following the divestment by Union Bank Nigeria Plc. It will be recalled that ASO Savings disclosed its divestment of Union Homes through a notice to the NSE that as part of Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN’s) approved restructuring exercise, Union Bank of Nigeria Plc (UBN) h a s decided to sell Union Homes.

Re c e n t l y, when the Managing Director of A s o Savings and Loans P l c , Hassan M u s a Usman, paid a courtesy visit to the Nigerian Deposit Insurance Corporation, NDIC he stated that ASO Savings now controls about 92 per cent of the shares of Union Homes Savings and Loans Plc. He said both institutions would be managed independently for six months before their final merger and expressed his appreciation to the Corporation for its support in resolving the Union Homes problem, assuring the NDIC of full implementation of the recommendations proffered by the supervisory authorities that would ensure sound management of both institutions.

Presco Plc , which occupied the fourth position on the price gainers chart last week appreciated by 15.7 per cent to close at N30.09 per share from N26.00 per share.

Presco operates one of the largest integrated palm oil plantations in Nigeria with a land area of around 19,917 hectares and a milling facility with a processing capacity of 60 tonnes of fresh fruit bunches (FFB) per hour.

Banking without mercy (2) T

HE tendency for banks to exploit customers to enhance revenue and profitability is reflected in the complaints below from two bank customers Customer James made these complaints to his bank between April 8th and April 14, “ A refund of

$160.56 is being paid into my account from PAYPAL SERVICE and am yet to receive the money in my account...Please I want to know why the money is delay and when it is going to reflect in my account. I will definitely quit using the bank too. (April 8) “Hello James, all

inconveniences regretted, the issue will be resolved on or before the close of business tomorrow (today).Thank you.”....That is what you told me yesterday, now it is getting to your closing hour. I am sure you have another story to tell. I WANT MY MONEY

From left : Second Vice-President, Chartered Institute of Stockbrokers (CIS) Mr. Adedapo Adekoje, Acting President & Chairman of Council, Mr. Oluwaseyi Abe and Registrar & Chief th Executive, Mr. Adedeji Ajadi at 20 Annual General Meeting, AGM of CIS in Lagos

MARKET NEWS

Skye Bank disburses N50m SME loan

S

KYE Bank Plc has disbursed the sum of N50 million Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) support loan under the Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN) MSME Intervention fund.

According to a statement issued by the bank, business owners can access the intervention fund if they have a good credit record, loan request is above N5 million, and they operate in any of the following specified sectors of manufacturing, education , Agro value chain and renewable energy.

Speaking about the N50 million SME loan, the bank’s Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Timothy Oguntayo, was quoted as saying that the bank would continue to partner with small business owners who are interested in creating value and contributing to the development of the country.

In his remarks the Bank’s CEO said that beyond loans, Skye bank

had put structures and modalities in place to make the SME sector the true driver of development by

Beyond loans, Skye bank had put structures and modalities in place to make the SME sector the true driver of development by helping the operators to overcome their problems and grow their businesses

helping the operators to overcome their problems and grow their businesses through its sector-based seminar series (Skye Business Seminar) initiative to improve the financial, marketing and managerial skills of the business owners in partnership with affinity groups like BDSPs etc nationwide.

He assured all SME operators of the bank’s support to grow and expand their businesses, saying the bank’s SME support package takes care of all operators.

It will be recalled that the CBN set up the N220 billion SME Support Fund to provide funding to operators in the SME sector who lack capital to expand their businesses and who find it difficult toaccessloansfromthecommercial banks due to high interest rates.

Under the scheme, loan beneficiaries pay a single digit interest on loan facilities granted them, and have a longer repayment period, unlike facilities from commercial banks which attract higher interest rates.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, MAY 5, 2015 — 23

BACK!!!!.......This is unfair since March 29th 2015 you people just keep on posting me...There is GOD OOh!!

(April 10) Hello Bank XYZ, you told me to wait until this week that my MONEY is going to be ready. Please I will like to know what is going on ?

April 14 Customer Carter complained on April 3rd, “Bank ABC in Nigeria is really fucking up.....I was debited N 20, 000 and it has not been returned .....I will definitely quit using the bank.”

The issue in both

The issue in both complaints is the same. It is using delay tactics to withhold customers’ money. It has happened to several bank customers and it is still happening

complaints is the same. It is using delay tactics to withhold customers’ money.

It has happened to several bank customers and it is still happening.

The banks usually blame such delay on system error, or need to ascertain customers’ claim. The truth however is that the bank is trading with the money while the customer is suffering.

In the case of the Customer James above, why should it take the bank, one of the old generation banks, more than two weeks to verify the refund, which is from an international organisation? Why can’t the bank honour its promise to resolve the issue?

The case of customer Carter is even surprising because it was a case of erroneous debit, which should not take more than one hour to investigate and resolve.

Now these problems might have occurred erroneously but because they benefit the bank, they persist and the customer suffers.

Unfortunately, when the management of the bank announces huge profitability, there is no mention of profit derived by deliberately denying customers access to their money. Such exploitation is not captured in the various regulations of CBN. Though the regulator mandates that customers’ complaints should be resolved within certain days., most customers do not escalate their complaints to the CBN either due to ignorance or they consider the amount involved not worth the trouble, hence they wait and complain for days till the bank is satisfied it has made enough income trading with the money involved and refund it with cosmetic apologies.

(Send comments and enquiries to vanguardinvestorsforum@gmail.com)

Wema Bank MD/CEO, Segun Oloketuyi (left) receiving an award from the Executive Director, Market Operations and Technology, Nigerian Stock Exchange, Mr. Adeolu Bajomo when executives of the bank rang the closing bell at the NSE in honour of Wema Bank’s 70th anniversary, yesterday.

,

S FORUM

It has to do with electronic crediting and another thing is that it is usually the best, immediately they credit you, you must get the alert that you have been paid

,

INVESTORS SPEAK

E-dividend mandate'll reduce unclaimed dividend — Shareholders Electronic Dividend (e-dividend) was introduced to forestall the rising incidence of unclaimed dividend in the Nigerian Capital Market. Shareholders who spoke with Vanguard Investors Forum, explains how e-dividend work and its benefits over paper dividend.

Excerpts:

Bello Olowonikoko

By Providence Obuh

M

r. Bello Olowon ikoko, Nigerian Shareholder's Solidarity Association: E- dividend mandate is a mandate form that registrars issue to investors to complete and take it to their bank for verification of their signature. Thereafter, the investor will submit the form back to the registrar concerned for execution. The e-dividend helps to reduce a lot of unclaimed dividend, and that is the one advantages.

Remember, some shareholders have been shouting that they don’t get their dividend, one of the reasons is that when they change their place of residence without notifying their registrar, they cannot get the dividend warrant because the registrar would have posted it to their former address. But with the e- dividend mandate, the moment the emandate form is filled and signed by the bank after verification and returned to the registrar for implementation once dividend is declared by a comapny,

Taiwo Oderinde the registrar will just post the dividend acrued to a shareholder directly into his bank account.

Do all registrars in Nigeria issue e-mandate form to shareholders?

Most registrars issue emandate form. When you go through annual report, there are pages where e-mandate warrants are attached .

There are two of them, one for bonus and the other for dividend . If there is any bonus approved at AGM , instead of sending them paper certificate that majority

Unlike physical dividend, edividend cannot be stolen, misplaced, lost or destroyed by fire or water.

may not even receive due to non-notification of address change, the registrar will automatically transfer their bonus into their Central Securities Clearing System, CSCS statement of account the moment the shareholders complete the form.

National Coordinator of Proactive Shareholders Association of Nigeria, Mr. Taiwo Oderinde: e-mandate dividend is an electronic means of posting shareholders dividend directly into his or her bank account . It is for people who have mandated the registrar to pay their dividend into their bank account by completing the e-mandate form . e-dividend mandate is a kind of instruction from the investor to the registrar. It is usually attached to the back of the annual report. By completing the form you are mandating the registrar to stop paying you physical dividend but to credit your dividend directly into your bank account. It has to do with electronic crediting. It is the best, immediately your account is credited, you will receive alert that you have been paid. Unlike physical dividend, e-dividend cannot be stolen, misplaced, lost or destroyed by fire or water.

24 — VANGUARD, TUESDAY, MAY 5, 2015

Real estate experts canvass for housing subsidy, liberal access to land •Task Buhari on reduction of huge housing deficit

By Ikenna Asomba

R

EAL estate stakeholders have advised the President-elect, Maj-Gen. Muhammadu Buhari to get a competent team that will hit the ground running, and as well as channel efforts towards addressing the housing deficit in Nigeria. They noted that by building 500 houses in each of the 36 States, the incoming Buhari administration can create over one million jobs in Nigeria.

The stakeholders spoke last Wednesday at a Business Forum tagged Real Estate Financing in Nigeria: Modalities, Opportunities and Challenges organised by the International Real Estate Federation, FIABCI, Nigeria Chapter in Lagos.

The real estate professionals were worried that foreign investors are now the major players in the housing sub-sector, while local players seem to be on the losing end, a trend they attributed to the unavailability of funds to the local players.

Following a recent forecast by the International Monetary Fund, IMF that 70 percent of the world’s growth will come from the emerging economies like Nigeria, these housing experts, recommended ways the incoming administration can harness the great investment opportunities available in the sector, as well as provide an alternative means of financing apart from the traditional bank loans which have become rather discouraging.

Alternative means of financing Those who spoke at the event included former President FIABCI-Nigeria and World Vice President Africa-FIABCI, Mr. S.P.O Fortune Ebie; President FIABCI-Nigeria, Mr. Joseph Akhigbe; Head, Real Estate Finance (West Africa) Stanbic IBTC Capital, Mr. Adeniyi Adeleye and the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Crown Realities Plc, Mr. Darl Uzu and the Managing Director, FSDH Asset Management Limited; Fund Manager, Africa Capital Alliance, Mr. Obi Nwogugu.

Policy somersault: According to Nwogugu, the major issue that has led to the increasing housing deficit in Nigeria is policy somersault by successive administrations. He said, this issue discourages real estate investors from dealing with

From left: Managing Director, Crown Realities Plc, Darl Azu; President, FIABCI-NIGERIA, Joeseph Akhigbe; Chairman of event, Sir S.P.O. Fortune-Ebie and Immediate-past FIABCI World President, Flavio Gonzaga Nunes at the event.

governments in addressing the huge housing deficit in the country.

His words: “As real estate investors, there are a lot risks that come with dealing with government. By the time you are dealing with this government, when another one comes on board, you lose out. So, real estate investors now believe that the less you deal with government, the better for you. Again, today, the supply of residential housing in Nigeria is not growing because it’s difficult to finance and buy it.

If you have mortgages in this country, more people can afford to buy houses. The fact that on the buyer’s side, you have to save money for 20 years before you can afford to buy a house is a problem on its own. Why can’t one go to a bank and get a real mortgage that he can pay over 20 years, without paying 25 per cent every year?

But this is not working at the moment. Until there is a real

The most important thing to do to address this alarming housing deficit in Nigeria is that government must make funds available

mortgage system in Nigeria, things will remain the same.”

Proffering a solution, he advised the incoming administration to support the National Mortgage Refinance Company, NMRC, to allow banks create mortgages that are more

competitive. “It may not be single digit, but at least let it be better than what we have today. So any policy that will expand the pool of mortgage holders will certainly turn the tide of housing deficit in the country,” he said.

Viable mortgage: Similarly, Mr.

Fortune-Ebie, who is the pioneer Managing Director of the Federal Housing Authority, FHA, advised the Buhari administration to make funds available in order to subsidise mortgages as well as making land titles available to the people.

The most important thing to do to address this alarming housing deficit in Nigeria is that government must make funds available.

Whoever is telling government that housing is not subsidised is a liar. Even recently in the United Kingdom, the Prime Minister has worked out a scheme for new house owners with subsidies for students to become new house owners. But here that we practice voodoo economics, the President is told that housing is not subsidised. All over the world, housing is subsidised.

Secondly, the question of title to land must be concluded and land made available to people.

Also, people who are experts in the built industry should be put in place in the housing sub-sector, and not charlatans. Once Buhari does these things, the housing problem in Nigeria will be solved.”Ebie who also managed Shelter Afrique said.

Recalling the good old days when government initiated workable schemes to address the housing deficit in the country, Ebie said: “ I owned my first house at about the age of 32.

Stakeholders want Lagos to commit to GHG emission reduction

By Kingsley Adegboye

P

ARTICIPANTS at the just concluded 7th Lagos State Summit on Climate Change have advised the state government to continue to invest in climate change in order to promote environmental sustainability and assured future for human existence in Lagos. The three-day annual forum which had in attendance over 700 stakeholders, maintained that Lagos as mega city, must commit to addressing greenhouse gas emissions reduction; including introducing controlled parking zones to deter the use of private vehicles and establishment of carbon registry to monitor GHG emission levels.

These recommendations were in a 24point communique issued at the end of the summit.

Mass transit programme The stakeholders further advised the state to enlarge its mass transit programme to an integrated, coordinated and functional public mass transport system which will have complimentary road furniture and a comprehensive urban transport policy driven by empirical research.

They noted that urban development should be controlled through appropriate measures that will reduce dependency on motorised vehicles and reduce the increasing need for urban infrastructure.

While calling on the state government to continue to showcase the benefits of its tree

planting initiative, as a climate change mitigation and adaptation measures to other parts of the country, the summit enjoined the state to look into the feasibility of enriching its remaining forest areas in the context of REED+ to create financial value for carbon stored in forest. This measure, the stakeholders said, would address the drivers of deforestation, enhance its carbon sequestration for climate change mitigation and even provide additional means of livelihoods for the concerned communities.

The participants equally called on the state to develop a climate change information management system in which all research outputs are catalogued and widely disseminated on a regular basis. In the same vein, technology should be put in place to reduce GHG emissions from waste and youths should be encouraged and involved in the development of climate change mitigation technology.

They also called on the state to pursue a strategic alignment with the private corporate organisations in its fight against climate change and promote research, development.

Calling for the creation of Lagos State Green Fund (inspired by the Lekki Free Trade Zone) to leverage funding from state, federal, bilateral and multilateral financial institutions to promote green employment generation, investment and innovation, the summit said the state should establish a Lagos Green EcoInnovation Forum that will be mandated to spearhead efforts to promote and intensify Nigeria’s efforts to meet climate change targets and goals through entrepreneurship and philanthropy.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, MAY 5, 2015 — 25

•LAGOS SKYLINE... UN agency adopts new guidelines on city planning.

UN Council adopts new guidelines on urban and territorial planning

By Jude Njoku

T

HE 25th session of the Governing Council of United Nations Human Settlement Programme, UNHabitat rose last week with the adoption of a resolution which approved the International Guidelines on Urban and Territorial Planning, cosponsored by France, Japan, South Africa and Uganda. The Council also solidified UNHabitat’s responsibility to lead the New Urban Agenda.

The Resolution calls upon ‘international financial institutions, development agencies and UN-Habitat to assist interested member States in using and adapting the Guidelines to their territorial and national contexts, where appropriate, and further developing tools and monitoring indicators’.

Monitoring indicators The event was attended by 780 delegates drawn from 85 UN member countries an over 100 partner organisations, Vanguard Homes & Property gathered that the Guidelines “ would be a source of inspiration and a global reference framework that will inform the New Urban Agenda and the unfolding sustainable development goals. The Guidelines will act as a compass for decision makers and urban professionals while developing urban and territorial planning frameworks. In the lead up to its approval, the Guidelines were discussed with a broader audience during two side events that gathered around 120 persons

representing national and local governments, development partners, urban professionals, research and academia and civil society organisations.

Executive Director of UNHabitat, Dr. Joan Clos who described today ’s urban planning as one in a crisis, opined that “the principles and recommendations contained in the Guidelines can help to tie together different objectives while pointing to the crucial questions of equitable and sustainable development”.

He described the meeting as the “last opportunity to solidify UN-Habitat’s responsibilities in leading the New Urban

Agenda before the United Nations Conference on Housing and Sustainable Urban Development – Habitat III –

He described the meeting as the last opportunity to solidify UNHabitat’s responsibilities in leading the New Urban Agenda

in 2016, as well as the establishment of the post-2015 Sustainable Development Goals and the climate change summit later this year.”

Dr. Clos was elated that key resolutions were passed on UNHabitat’s work programme and budget and in honing and strengthening its mandate in the run up to Habitat III. “In addition, we are delighted that a key resolution on governance marks a confidence in UN-Habitat’s progress in this area and will strengthen our partnership and our programmes,” he said.

“The theme of urban-rural linkages illustrates the critical

role of sustainable urbanization in driving sustainable development in all areas of all countries,” Clos said. The drafting of the Guidelines was supported by an Expert Group through a broad-based consultative and participatory process and based on evidence, good practices and lessons learnt from different contexts and at different planning scales.

The experts were nominated by their respective national governments, associations of local authorities, associations of professional planners and international institutions, representing experience and practice from Africa, Asia, Europe and America. UN agencies and members of the Committee of Permanent Representatives at UN-Habitat were also consulted and briefed throughout the process of developing the Guidelines.

NANTS kicks off 5,000 housing units for traders in FCT

By Caleb Ayansina

T

HE National Association of Nigeria’s Traders, NANTS, has formally kicked off the building of the first phase of its 5,000 housing units for traders in the Federal Capital Territory, FCT. The project which is under the Affordable Home Ownership Scheme, would be developed by the Onos International Nigeria. Ltd and the Databridge Int’l Nigeria. Ltd. It will be financed by the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria, FMBN in collaboration with the Federal Housing Authority, FHA. The National President of NANTS, Mr. Kenny Ukoha, a lawyer, who spoke at the ground breaking ceremony of the scheme in Abuja, explained that with the commencement of the project, traders would now have the opportunity to own their houses under a flexible payment package.

Checks by Vanguard Homes & Property revealed that under the scheme, a unit of two-bedroom

apartment will go between N4.5million and N7.5million, depending on the location; while the three-bedroom apartments would sold at a price not below N7 million.

Ukoha noted that unlike in the past when it was difficult for traders to own their houses through affordable mortgages; the process had now been simplified. According to him, 97 percent of traders in FCT are tenants, even in their shops where they do their businesses. So, the commencement of this laudable project will surely correct that situation.

“Years back, we never dreamt that one day a common traders will come here and be saying we are having ground breaking event for house and estate that belong solely to the traders,” he said, adding that successive administrations forgot us but the incumbent and outgoing administration gave us this opportunity”. The NANTS president warned the handlers of the project to resist the temptation of bringing

tribalism, nepotism, religion and ethnic sentiments into the scheme. He insisted that allocation must be on first come first served’ basis.

“Let me warn us, in a situation like this, it’s very easy to begin to fight; it is also very easy to divide the association, I must not find anybody who is discriminating against gender, religion or ethnicity. This is not housing estate belonging to the Igbos; neither for Hausas nor for Yorubas. This estate belongs to NANTS and all members should benefit.

“We don’t want what happened in some unions on housing matters to happen, we want unity, we don’t want cheating, I warn all the leaders responsible for this particular estate, please keep your hands clean. On no account should we see or hear that something is missing in any account,” he said. The Chairman of NANTS in the FCT, Prince Edozie Ugwu said the project which would be built to standard with quality materials would be delivered in six months.

26— Vanguard, TUESDAY, MAY 5, 2015

Firm restates commitment to build 10,000 ‘lease to own’ houses

By KINGSLEY ADEGBOYE

F

irst World Communities Limited, a Lagos-based real estate firm that champions the delivery of affordable homes to low and medium-income groups in the country has reiterated its commitment to its primary mandate of delivering affordable homes to Nigerians.

To this end, the company, through its innovative Leaseto-Own (LtO) Scheme which is being driven through an incorporated partnership with the Lagos state government, is expected to provide 10, 000 housing units in the state.

The company’s chairman, Brigadier-General Tunde Reis (rtd) who made this disclosure at the company’s Board of Directors meeting held last week in Badore, LekkiPeninsula, Lagos said the company is uniquely positioned to increase access to affordable homes in Lagos

state.

Enumerating the benefits of LtO, General Reis who is a former boss of the Federal Housing Authority FHA, hinted that the scheme is targeted at households who do not qualify for mortgage loans. It has the advantage of low deposit and flexible elongated re-payment period, which makes it more affordable for low and medium income households.

Reis who also headed the Post-Army Housing Scheme

The scheme is targetted at households who do not qualify for mortgage loans; it has the advantage of low deposit and flexible elongated repayment period

in the country, explained that the Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babatunde Fashola recently commissioned two of the estates developed by First World Communities under the Lagos Co-operative Home Ownership Incentive Scheme (Lagos CHOIS).

The commissioned estates comprised 802 completed

mixed housing types with associated infrastructure.

He said CHOIS Garden at Abijo GRA, Off Lekki–Epe Expressway, has 342 completed homes while CHOIS City at Agbowa in Ikosi Ejirin LCDA comprised 460 completed homes, adding that the estates are already occupied by some of the

beneficiaries.

Disclosing that the company has also commenced development of Oasis Garden Estate located in Abijo GRA, comprising 272 mixed housing units with the first phase projected for completion by December 2015, Reis stated that his company is a private limited liability company focused on delivery of affordable homes to households on low to medium income in Nigeria, with plans for expansion to other African cities.

Lagos property: Court orders parties to maintain peace

By Abdulwahab Abdulah

A

N Ikeja High Court presided over by Justice A. Akinkugbe has ordered parties in the ongoing dispute over a property located at Ikeja to maintain peace pending the determination of the suit before the court.

The court gave the directive, asking for peace to be maintained between a travels and tourism firm, Peacock

Travels and Tours Limited and its landlord, Jude Ekwenife.

Peacock had dragged Ekwenife to court, claiming N10m over alleged harassment and damages of its properties.

Justice Akinkugbe adjourned the matter till May 19, 2015, while ordering the counsel to both parties to advise their clients against any action that would threaten the court with contempt.

Joined as defendant in the

suit is Mrs. Yinka Igandan who claimed to be the former landlady to Peacock before she sold the property and transferred ownership to Ekwenife.

According to the applicant, Ekwenife, after purchasing the property at No. 136 Awolowo Way, Ikeja, Lagos, allegedly refused to recognise Peacock as his tenant and had therefore ordered the firm to pack out even while its annual rent was still subsisting.

The firm alleged that on July 15, 2014, “suspected thugs and other hirelings in the company of the 1st respondents invaded the business premises of the applicant and proceeded to demolish parts of the structure and in the process destroyed the petitioner ’s Internet connection hardware and water tanks.”

Internet connection hardware

From left: Mr. Adeola Tejumola. Arc. Rotimi Oluwole. Brig-Gen. Tunde Reis (rtd) (Chairman), Mrs. Irene Ubah, Mrs. Florence Nwabueze(Secretary) and Mr. Taiwo Odutola, all of First World Communities Ltd during their Annual General Meeting in Lagos.

Pollution: FG inaugurates committee on MIA project

By Funmi Olasupo

A

S part of moves to protect human health and the environment from anthropogenic emissions and releases of mercury and mercury compounds, the Federal Government last week, inaugurated a National Steering Committee on Minamata Convention Initial Assessment (MIA) Project in Nigeria.

The objective of the project is to assist Nigeria in completing pre-ratification activities under the Minamata Convention in order to enable policy and strategic decision-making for future interventions.

The project will further complement the country’s efforts to significantly reduce exposure to mercury which has harmful effects on humans and the environment.

The Minamata convention on mercury is a global treaty to protect human health and environment from the adverse effects of mercury. It was agreed upon in Geneva Switzerland on January 19, 2013.

Inaugurating the Committee in Abuja, the Minister of Environment Mrs. Laurentia Mallam said that Nigeria recognises the fact that undertaking a comprehensive invention would serve as basis to develop and implement a more robust mercury preventive program.

According to the Minister, “the

program will include the identification and location of contaminated sites and extent of contamination, storage, handling and disposal of mercury, to ensure that mercury related activities do not result into further damage to health and environment.

“In this regard, the Ministry of Environment on behalf of Nigeria is collaborating with the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation, UNIDO and the United Nations Institute for Training and Research UNITAR for the execution of a project titled “Minamata Convention Initial Assessment (MIA) project in the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

The firm further alleged that in a bid to forcefully eject it, the first defendant caused a tipper load of gravel to be offloaded right at its office entrance, thus humiliating the firm before its clients and making it difficult to carry out its daily business.

According to the firm’s Senior Human Resources Manager, Owoade Akinjide, efforts by the police .

Apart from N10million damages, Peacock is praying the court to restrain Ekwenife from ejecting it forcefully.

The firm is seeking a declaration that there is a tenant-landlord agreement between it and Ekwenife.

But Ekwenife has urged the court to decline jurisdiction over the matter and to declare that the applicant had no locus standi to institute the action.

In a counter-affidavit deposed to by himself, Ekwenife denied being the purchaser of the property, and insisted that Chief Segun Phillips, the rather than Peacock was the recognised tenant on the property.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, MAY 5, 2015—27

New Ford Mustang ‘wickedly' fast •Accelerates 0-100 km/h in 5 seconds

T

HE all-new Ford Mus tang delivers 0-100 km/ h (0-62 mph) acceleration in under 5 seconds – making it the fastest accelerating high-volume Ford model ever offered in Europe.

The company also revealed that more than 2,200 customers have ordered an all-new Ford Mustang since the iconic car became available to order across Europe earlier this year.

The Ford Mustang – on sale in Europe for the first time in the car’s 50-year history – is available with Ford’s 5.0-litre V8 engine delivering 421 PS and 530 Nm of torque, or the more fuel-efficient 2.3-litre EcoBoost engine delivering 317 PS and 432 Nm of torque.

The 5.0-litre V8 fastback model with six-speed manual transmission reaches 100 km/h (62 mph) from a standing start in 4.8 seconds – faster than any Ford in the Europe since the lowvolume Ford GT supercar launched in 2005. The Ford Mustang 2.3-litre EcoBoost fastback manual reaches the marker in 5.8 seconds.

Ford Mustang drivers can optimise the car’s performance to suit their mood and driving conditions using Selectable Drive Modes, and away from the public highway can use Track Apps to monitor driving performance. Ford Mustang 5.0-litre V8 drivers also can achieve the fastest possible acceleration off the line on the track assisted by Launch Control technology. Mustang also delivers up to 0.97 g-force when cornering.

“The new Ford Mustang will be wickedly fast off the line and throw you back in your seat with a thrilling engine soundtrack,” said Hermann Salenbauch, Mustang vehicle line director.

“But Mustang isn’t just fast in a straight line. The ride and handling will be a revelation for European drivers.”

Equipped with Ford’s 2.3-litre EcoBoost engine the new Ford Mustang also delivers up to 8.0 l/ 100 km (35.3 mpg) fuel efficiency and 179 g/km CO2 emissions.* The all-new Ford Mustang’s high performance

engines are supported by a standard Performance Pack in Europe that delivers uprated brakes and cooling for high-speed driving. A sophisticated chassis and body structure, and advanced technology, also help optimise driving dynamics to deliver the sporty experience Ford Mustang customers demand.

Selectable Drive Modes are controlled using toggle switches in the centre console and adjust the AdvanceTrac electronic stability control, throttle response, automatic gear-shift patterns, and steering to match

Normal, Sport+, Track or Snow/Wet settings. Selectable Effort Electric Power Assisted Steering enables drivers to choose a Normal, Comfort or Sport steering

weight and feel.

To help drivers get the most from the car at the track, the Ford Mustang also delivers Track Apps that can be controlled via

the steering wheel and viewed in the instrument panel, including accelerometer, acceleration timer and brake performance, which measures braking

time and distance from a set speed.

Available for the 5.0-litre V8 with manual transmission, the Launch Control system holds the engine at a pre-set value between 3,000 rpm and 4,500 rpm with the accelerator fully depressed. When the clutch is released, torque delivery to the rear wheels is controlled for maximum traction and consistent standing starts. An electronic Line Lock system also available for the 5.0-litre V8 applies only the front brakes, allowing drivers to the warm the rear tyres.

The Ford Mustang uses fully independent suspension front and rear for sporty dynamics and comfort, including integral-link rear suspension that optimises ride comfort and mechanical grip, and double-balljoint front MacPherson struts that enable large, powerful brakes without affecting steering feel.

The body structure is 28 per cent stiffer than the previous generation Mustang.

Weight distribution of 54 per cent at the front for the 5.0-litre V8 and 53 per cent at the front for the 2.3 litre EcoBoost contributes to responsive and precise handling.

Speed limiter implementation starts next month — FRSC T

HE Federal Road Safety Corps, FRSC, will commence the implementation of speed limiter on all commercial vehicle on Nigerian road as from June this year.

FRSC Corps Marshal and Chief Executive, Boboye Oyeyemi, disclosed this at the flag-off ceremony of the joint Lagos mega rally held at the Ojota Motor Park recently.

The Corps Marshal who spoke at the rally attended by representatives of all transport unions in the country said that the implementation of speed limiters had become necessary to reduce the carnage on roads.

The Corps Marshal, who urged members of the transport unions to

abide by traffic laws, promised to cooperate with them to ensure reduction of accidents on the highways.

Speaking on the rally, which was attended by

This is a joint national rally and all the transport unions are present. We are not surprised with your presence because we have a long standing relationship with the Transport Union

FRSC Corps Marshal and Chief Executive, Baboye Oyeyemi senior officials of FRSC from Abuja and all the zonal commands, the FRSC boss advised the transport union members on how to make the road accident- free.

He said: “This is a joint national rally and all the transport unions are

present. We are not surprised with your presence because we have a long standing relationship with the transport unions.”

According to him, the flag-off in Lagos was the first phase of the rally which will be launched in

all parts of the country.

He disclosed that the rally was proposed by the transport unions to reduce accident rate on the highways. Explaining why Lagos was chosen as the kick-off centre, the Corps Marshal disclosed that Lagos accounts for 40 per cent of vehicular density in the country.

He, however, warned drivers to shun use of hard drugs, alcohol, and phone calls while driving, as this could result to accidents and loss of lives.

He said: “No vehicle leaving the parks should be over-loaded. Any tanker that blocks the road should be prosecuted and sale of alcohol near the parks should be discouraged.”

Also speaking at the occasion, President of the

Continues on page 28

28—Vanguard, TUESDAY, MAY 5, 2015

By Theodore Opara

Low turnout at 10th Lagos Motor Show U

NLIKE the past edi tions, the 10th Lagos Motor Show, which kicked off on Thursday and scheduled to end tomorrow at the Federal Palace Hotel, Lagos, witnessed a low turnout of participation from automobile companies and visitors. But the spare parts expo had a huge turnout.

The low turnout on the side of the participant was attributed to the last election in the country. Most auto dealers had feared that the election could result in crisis and as a result could not import the desired products to participate at the show.

To some of the automobile companies, it was better to watch the situation before bringing in stock and this had left them without new products to showcase at the annual event.

The low turnout on the side of the visitors could be traced to the ongoing fuel scarcity, which has kept most people at home while the show lasted.

Only Toyota, Kia, Suzuki, GAC, Michelin, FAW Truck and Volkswagen Truck showed up.

The real big players which control major brands like the Stallion Group, Coscharis, CFAO, Peugeot, Mercedes-Benz and Kewalrams were missing at the show.

Stallion alone controls more than seven auto brands, including Hyundai, Nissan, Honda, Futon Pickup, Volkswagen (passenger cars), Skoda, Audi and Porsche, while Coscharis, another big player in the Nigerian auto sector, also has seven brands under its umbrella, BMW, Mini, Ford, Jaguar Land Rover, MG,

•Kia Sorento

Toyota Corolla

•VW truck Joylong and Rolls Royce.

CFAO which has the franchise for Mitsubishi cars and Fuso trucks and buses, as well as Chevrolet, did not show up at the fair. Also not present at the event is Kewalram, which deals in Mitsubishi, Futon, Chery and Isuzu.

Mercedes-Benz, Peugeot missing Mercedes, which use to

attend Lagos and Abuja Motor shows in big ways,

Only Toyota, Kia, Suzuki, GAC, Michelin, FAW Truck and Volkswagen Truck showed up

•Suzuki Alto failed to show up this year, while Peugeot, which was outstanding at the last Lagos Motor Show, did not show up this year. This, took the shine off the show this year.

This development has left observers wondering the fate of the Nigerian automobile industry, which is in the hands of very few companies that control several brands.

Meanwhile, some of the

exhibitors, who are new to the show, are asking why the low turnout for such an exhibition in a country of over 170 million people.

Mr Felix Lee, Administrative Director, CIG Motors, frowned at the turnout, saying it was far below their expectation.

According to him, they wanted to show Nigerians the quality of products they have and allow them

Speed limiter implementation starts next month — FRSC Continues from page 27

National Union of Road Transport Workers, NURTW, Alhaji Najeem Usman, commended FRSC, commitment to road safety in the country and advised its members to obey traffic and regulations.

In his remark, Lagos State Commissioner for Transport, Mr. Kayode Opeifa, who represented Lagos State Governor, Babatunde Fashola at the occasion, explained that the state government was

to compare what they are offering with other brands. But the low turnout made it impossible because their competitors, which are the Japanese, Korean and European brands, were not well represented at the fair ground.

Also speaking to Vanguard, Mr Adrian Fourie, General Manager, Perfection Motors Limited, which represents FAW truck from China, also expressed displeasure at the turnout at the show.

According to him, only two truck companies are participating in the show, FAW and Volkswagen, which does not

doing its best to ensure safety on the road.

According to him, a new law compelling every commercial vehicle to use retro-reflective stickers will soon be implemented to reduce accident rates in the state.

The commissioner, who pointed out that they were committed to working with FRSC to ensure accident reduction, explained that the restriction of motorbike on the expressways in Lagos helped achieved drastic reduction of road accidents in the state, which

has saved many lives.

But he was booed when he said that the government would stop the use of small buses (which he described as tuketuke for commercial purpose in the state.

“Those buses are below 1.5cc and are not safe for commercial transportation in Lagos. They were used in the 1980s and discarded,” he stated.

According to him, the state is recording more death resulting from the use of this class of vehicles for commercial trans-

portation in the state and warned drivers, who cannot heed to the call by the government not to use the vehicles in Lagos to take them to other states of the federation.

It took the intervention of the National President of NURTW to calm the members.

According to the NURTW president, “you should respect the commissioner,who is representing the governor at this occasion. Government is the one who decides the vehicle to be used for com-

mercial business in the state.”

Opeifa, however, said they were determined to give the drivers what they need to function, but they should not take life.

“Speed limiter will cost you money to install but would have been avoided if you had adhered to approved speed limits.”

He disclosed that in the past, “alcohol, cocaine, heroine had been found in drivers tested by the state government, which could affect their performance negatively.”

reflect the number of truck brands in the country.

Despite the low turnout, however, the organisers of the event said they are not deterred as the fair is their own contribution to the development of the Nigeria auto industry.

Mr. Ifeanyi Agwu, Managing Director, BKG Exhibitors, noted that the turnout was low due to the just-concluded elections in the country, which created fear in the minds of many auto dealers. He also attributed the low turnout partly to the new auto policy, which the auto companies are still trying to study.

But despite this, he said, the turnout by the spare parts companies is massive as close to 100 companies are exhibiting in this sector. He promised a better fair next year, saying “definitely, everything will be well taken care of next year. Most of the auto companies promised to take part in the fair next year and their position is well understood.”

Vanguard, TUESDAY, MAY 5, 2015 —29

By Theodore Opara

GAC shows class at Lagos Motor Fair C

IG Motors, distribu tors of GAC vehicles in Nigeria are currently displaying their range of automobiles at the on-going Lagos Motor Fair taking place in the Federal Palace Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos.

The GAC models on display at the fair are GS5 Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV), GA6 saloon and GA3 saloon.

GS5, the tough, smooth driving Sports Utility Vehicle, and the GA3 sedan are setting new standard in their various segment in terms of safety, performance, comfort and reliability.

The new sensation sedan, the GA3 is powered by a 1.6L petrol engine, with a Dual Continuity Variable Valve Timing and a front vented disc brake/ rear disc brake. Coming with a fuel tank of 50 litres and truck space of 450 litres, the car offers features beyond its contemporaries and is competitively

Toyota unveils RAV4 with leather seat, A/T priced.

Equipped with automatic air-conditioning system and power-adjusted front seats, a large central display and one-touch engine start/stop system, the GA3 sets new standard in comfort. It is available in various attractive body colours, such as Latin red, Persia blue, Netherlands orange, silk silver, ivory white and elegant black.

Coming in two versions of MT or AT, other features of the car include the option of leather seat, leather steering wheel, rear view mirrors with defogging and defrosting functions as well as front dome light.

Executive Director of CIG Motors, Mr. George Francis Ejike stated that his company is offering special discounts for customers who buy GAC ve-

hicles, as well as the facilitation of auto financing.

Meanwhile, the GAC brand of automobiles has been described as high quality automobiles which can stand the test of time anywhere in the world.

Kan Liu, Consul General, Chinese Embassy in Lagos made this known when he paid a visit to the CIG Motors office on Victoria Island, Lagos, recently.

T

OYOTA Nigeria Lim ited took its dominance of the Nigeria auto sector to the ongoing Lagos Motor show with full range of product line on display.

The world’s number one car maker unveiled the top of the range Toyota Hilux pick up at the Lagos Motor show thereby attracting visitors to its stand. The

Faw trucks show strength at Lagos Motor Fair R

ENOWNED Chi nese truck maker, FAW Trucks is exhibiting its range of trucks at the on-going Lagos Motor Show at the Federal Palace Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos. Represented in Nigeria by Perfection Motors with head office in Ikeja, the FAW Truck model include the J5 and J6 tractor heads as well as J5 tipper.

According to the General Manager, Perfection Motor Company Limited, Mr. Adrian Fourie,

C M Y K

their participation is to show construction companies the world class products from FAW Truck, adding that construction companies and haulers will find the trucks very useful and reliable in the execution of their tough tasks. “This is because the trucks are built to last and with the Nigeria road condition in mind “ he said. He added that his company is offering customers special discounts during the fair.

FAW Group is a global leader in the vehicle manufacturing industry with a 60-year history of innovation. Founded in 1953, FAW employs 120,000 people around the world and sells products in over 70 countries. As China’s stateowned automotive corporation, the company’s total assets are valued at 244.575 billion Yuan RMB. FAW is a diversified maker of quality light, medium, and heavy-

duty trucks, automobiles, municipal buses and luxury tourist coaches, custom bus chassis, and mini-vehicles with total sales in excess of 18 million vehicles worldwide.

The J6 tractor head, with Model number : CA4250P66K24T1A4E, comes with the following specifications: Drive Type : 6×4; Dimension (mm): 7160 x 2500 x 3560; Power (HP): 375; Capacity of Fuel Tank (L): 400; Passengers : 2 (with sleeping bed) and Top Speed (km/h): 98.

The J5 tractor head comes with Drive Type : 6×4 6×4; Dimension (mm): 6793 × 2490 × 3386 / 7093 × 2500 × 3386; Power KW / (r/ min): 280 / 2200 (380HP) / 309 / 2200 (420HP) Capacity of Fuel Tank (L): 400 / 500 and two passengers with sleeping bed.

Coming with a flat

head is the J5 tipper with a single cab, 4×2 rear wheel drive; Dimension (mm): 5860 × 1900 × 2300; Power KW / (r/min): 76 / 3600 and a 400 litre fuel tank capacity. With an already established workshop in Ikeja, the General Manager added that “We intend to set up dealerships with showrooms and workshops in Kano, Kaduna, Lagos and on the main highway from South to North and West to East and will strive to make service and spare parts one of our main priorities”.

new Hilux now comes in leather seat and automatic transmission which is not common in the pick up vehicle segment in Nigeria.

Powered by a 2.7 lire petrol engine, the Hilux offers luxury features such as CD player, power windows, air conditioning system among others. It also comes with array of safety feature like Antilock braking system, airbags and safety seatbelts.

With the new features in the Hilux, most families would fine it handy as a family vehicle apart its normal use at construction site, and other uses.

Toyota Nigeria Limited has maintained consistence at the Lagos Motor show since it inception ten years ago.

But with the low turnout by auto companies at the show, Toyota has taken the major space at the fair.

On display at the Toyota stand are the new Yaris, Corolla, Avensis and Camry. Others include the Land Cruiser estate and Land Cruiser Prado, RAV4, Land Cruiser pick up, Coaster and Hiace buses.

All-new Discovery Sport for launch

I

N line with our com mitment to ensuring that its customers get to be among the first to witness all Jaguar Land Rover in Sub Sahara Africa; Coscharis Motors is set to launch the all new Discovery Sport into the Nigeria market for the first time. The launch, slated for Thursday May at the Lagos Oriental, Victoria Island, is expected to attract auto freaks from across the country.

With so many first, the new Discovery Sport is the world’s most versatile and capable premium compact SUV, featur-

ing a 5+2 seating (optional) in a footprint no larger than existing 5seat premium SUVs. It is designed as an extraordinary every day vehicle that combines the legendary Land Rover capability with premium elegance.

According to the Coscharis Group Managing Director, Josiah Samuel, “the Discovery Sport is loaded with innovative technologies and delivering high levels of practicability, luxury, style and efficiency; it is the next chapter in the life of the Discovery family.”

30—Vanguard, TUESDAY, MAY 5, 2015

THIS WEEK May 1-30, 2015

Hepatitis Awareness Month - campaign which aims to raise awareness about hepatitis.

May 5, 2015 World Asthma Day. The aim is to raise awareness, care and support for those affected by asthma. A walk by GSK from Maryland to Ilupeju in Lagos & Symposium at Bellus Event Centre, Ilupeju.

May 8, 2015 Red Cross & Red Crescent Day- a humanitarian movement to protect peoples lives and health, alleviate or prevent suffering and ensure respect is given to all.

Science World

Chicken pox virus can cause HIV

P

ATIENTS infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) can, in rare cases, experience bleeding on the brain that causes a type of stroke called intracerebral hemorrhage.

A Loyola University Medical Center case study demonstrates that a virus called varicellazoster can cause inflammation of blood vessels in the brain.

This inflammation, known as cerebral vasculitis, can cause both hemorrhagic and nonhemorrhagic strokes.

The study was presented during a meeting of the American Academy of Neurology 2015 annual meeting in Washington, D.C. Varicella-zoster virus causes chickenpox in children and shingles in older adults.

The virus typically remains dormant in patients with healthy immune systems, but can reactivate if the immune system is compromised.

Physicians who treat patients with suppressed immune systems should take into account the

Continues on Page 35

• Life expectancy in Nigeria has not improved appreciably as a result of high disease burden and poverty.

LIFE EXPECTANCY:

Top 20 diseases Buhari’s govt must tackle

By Chioma Obinna

O

NE of the tasks that await the incoming administration is the urgent need to improve the country’s life expectancy of Nigerians. This expectation is based on latest findings that show that currently, Nigerians are not living optimally due to preventable natural and manmade causes.

According to a CIA world report as at August 2014, Life expectancy at birth of the total population of the country was put at 52.62 years. The report showed that female live longer than the male with 53.66 years and male 51.63 years.

Also, a report World Life Expectancy showed that in 1960 Nigerians rose from 38.7 to 53.2 in 2011. Nigeria was also ranked 153 in 1960 to 179. Despite the rise in life expectancy in 2011 and 2014, another report the World Health Organisation, WHO has indicated that life expectancy in Nigeria and a few other countries in Africa have remained stagnant despite the continued increase around the world.

The World Body report had lamented in their report that life expectancy for both men and women is still less than 55 years in nine sub-Saharan African countries – Angola, Central African Republic, Chad, Côte

d’Ivoire, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Lesotho, Mozambique, Nigeria and Sierra Leone.”

However, critical observers are of the opinion that the increasing deaths from non communicable diseases should be a source of worry for the incoming government of Nigeria. There worries were however confirmed by another report which clearly listed top 20 causes of deaths in the country.

The report by World Life Expectancy with recent data from primary sources such as WHO, World Bank, UNESCO, CIA and individual country databases for global health in 2011 listed the diseases to include; Influenza and pneumonia, HIV/AIDS, stroke, coronary heart disease, diarrhoeal diseases, Tuberculosis, malaria, diabetes mellitus, lung disease, hypertension, kidney disease, breast Cancer, birth trauma, low birth weight, road traffic

accidents, endocrine disorders, asthma, violence, inflammatory/ heart, and cervical cancer.

According to the report, Influenza and Pneumonia deaths in Nigeria reached 213,099 or

Despite improvements in in 2011 and 2014, the World Health Organisation says life expectancy in Nigeria has remained stagnant despite the continued increase around the world

12.49 percent of total deaths. The age adjusted death Rate is 173.78 per 100,000 of population ranks Nigeria 18 in the world.

For HIV/AIDS, deaths in Nigeria reached 213,667 or 12.52 percent of total deaths. The age adjusted Death Rate is 170.23 per 100,000 of population ranks Nigeria 18 in the world.

The report also stated that stroke deaths in Nigeria reached 87,717 or 5.14 percent of the total deaths in 2011. The age adjusted death rate from stroke was put at 148.61 per 100,000 of population and ranks Nigeria 32 in the world.

On diarrhoeal diseases deaths in Nigeria reached 173,878 or 10.19 percent of total deaths. The age adjusted death rate is 101.48 per 100,000 of population ranks Nigeria 19 in the world.

Malaria: Deaths from malaria which has remained a problem in the country reached 219,833 or 12.88 percent of total deaths.

The age adjusted death rate is 79.28 per 100,000 of population ranks Nigeria 11 in the world “Diabetes Mellitus Deaths in Nigeria reached 34,528 or 2.02 percent of total deaths. The age adjusted Death Rate is 55.40 per 100,000 of population ranks Nigeria 47 in the world.

According to the latest WHO data published in April 2011 Lung Disease Deaths in Nigeria reached 25,241 or 1.48 percent of total deaths. The age adjusted Death Rate is 41.90 per 100,000 of population ranks Nigeria 42 in the world The report also revealed that kidney disease deaths in Nigeria reached 16,892 or 0.99 percent of total deaths. The age adjusted Death Rate is 25.01 per 100,000 of population ranks Nigeria 51 in the world.

According to the latest WHO data published in April 2011 Birth Trauma Deaths in Nigeria reached 68,213 or 4.00 percent of total deaths. The age adjusted Death Rate is 23.99 per 100,000 of population ranks Nigeria 9 in the world According to the latest WHO data published in April 2011 Low Birth Weight Deaths in Nigeria reached 67,212 or 3.94 percent of total deaths. The age adjusted Death Rate is 23.64 per 100,000 of population ranks Nigeria 22 in the world.

The report also showed that road traffic accidents deaths in Nigeria reached 24,850 or 1.46

Continues on Page 32

Vets task Buhari on farmers, cattle rearers' war Page Page 36 31

Page 59

Vanguard, TUESDAY, MAY 5, 2015—31

Vets task Buhari on farmers, cattle rearers' war

• President-Elect Mohammadu Buhari.

By Gabriel Olawale & Jannifer Aladetan

T

HE President-Elect, Mohammadu Buhari has been urged to wade into the long-standing war between farmers and cattle rearers in the northern part of the country.

Making the call in Lagos weekend, National President of the Nigerian Veterinary Medical Association, NVMA, Dr. Edgar Sunday, said an intervention by Buhari would put a decisive end to the spate of clashes between the warring parties.

Sunday, who spoke during an activity to mark the 2015 World Veterinary Day, said the government had the capacity and requisite resources, implored the President Elect to display the necessary political will needed to prioritise the issue.

"The frequent clash between the farmers and the cattle rearers mostly in northern part of the country has claimed many lives and property, but there are simple methods that can be adopted to end the fight and in turn increase the productivity level of livestock.

Rearing Animals "Naturally there are three different ways of rearing animal stock like cows, sheep and goats.

These are the intensive, semiintensive and extensive rearing programmes. What the Fulani cattle rearers are currently practising is the extensive programme, meaning they are reared in the open. Whenever they exhaust the green pasture in that particular environment, they move to other areas."

Sunday noted that the constant moving from one place to another denied the livestock the necessary and basic nutrition and mineral required to produce optimally but also expose them to environmental hazard.

"These animals are also exposed to different environmental hazard and this in-turn diminishing their level of productivity. But when animal is under intensive care they tend to produce well, the more comfortable they are the more productive they become.

It is possible to reduce the number of cattle and increase the productivity. For instance, at the moment European country has fewer cattle than they have 30 years ago and they are sufficient. We can also improve the productive capacity of our breeding through genetic engineering.

On his part, the Chairman of the Lagos state branch of the Association, Dr. Mobolaji Alao, expressed willingness to partner with government in the area of public health and security of the nation.

"In advanced countries, dogs are used to detect bombs, narcotics among other, so there is need for recruitment of veterinary doctors in some of our conventional security structures like the Army and Police because the number of experts there presently is not encouraging.

Also there is need for proper law on the way animals are to be slaughtered, processed and transported," he added.

Bode, Grillo take over administration of LUTH

• Prof. Chris Bode.

T

HE Federal Government has approved the appointment of Prof Christopher Bode as the new Chief Medical Director of the Lagos University Teaching Hospital, LUTH. The appointment is effective from March 25, 2015.

In a similar announcement, Mr. Babajide Lukman Grillo has been appointed Director of Administration/Secretary to the Management Board of LUTH. Bode, a 59-year old renowned Paediatric Surgeon, hails from Ejigbo, Osun state.

He obtained his MBCHB at the University of Ife ( ObafemiAwolowo University) in 1980 and trained as a surgeon in LUTH from 19821990.

He became a Fellow of the West African College of Surgeons as well as Fellow of the National Postgraduate

Medical College of Nigeria in 1992. He won many travel grants and awards, including the Sir Samuel Manuwa Memorial Award for overall best candidate at the finals of the NPMCN examinations in 1992. He also trained in paediatric laparoscopy at the Schneider Children's Hospital, Tel Aviv, Israel and has had surgical training opportunities at the Manchester Children's Hospital UK. Bode joined the College of Medicine of the University of Lagos in November 1992 as a lecturer and was Honorary Consultant Paediatric Surgeon to LUTH, with special interest in neonatal oesophageal surgery and paediatric penile reconstruction.

Continues on Page 33

• Mr. Babajide Grillo

World Day for Safety: Stakeholders advocate zero hazard in the workplace

By Chioma Obinna

A

S the world marked this year’s World Day for Safety and Health, stakeholders have called for the promotion of zero hazard in workplace. This is coming on the heels of the urgent call for the review of the country’s Factory Act which governs

operational health and safety in Nigeria. In Lagos, stakeholders from the Bank and Health & Safety organisations maintained that health and safety issues are yet to take rightful place in the society.

Speaking at the conference organised by Sterling Bank, the

•L-R: Group Head, Strategy & Comm, Mr. Shina Atitola; Head, Health, Safety & Environment and Mr. Benjamin Ighomereho; Group Head, Customer Experience Service Group, Mr. Benjamin Ighomereho (all of Sterling Bank Plc) with Mrs. Titi Ogundipe and Chairman, Institute of Safety Professionals of Nigeria, Commander Timothy Nwaogu, during a press forum on 2015 World Day for Safety & Health at Work in Lagos recently.

Group Head, Customer Experience Services Group, Mrs Titi Ogundipe emphasised the importance of health and safety in the workplace, adding that as the first bank to adopt health and safety policy in the workplace it takes issues of safety seriously.

In his views, the Chairman, Institute of Safety Professionals of Nigeria, Commander Timothy Nwaogu who stressed the need for employers of labour to ensure that health status of people are maintain said workers are engaged to earn a living not to earn death.

Nwaogu who disclosed that this year’s theme centred on “Joining in Building A Culture of Prevention in Occupational Safety and Health,” said companies like Sterling Bank should designate a percentage of their profits to health and safety awareness in the workplace and in the communities.

On his part, Executive Director, Safety Advocacy & Empowerment Foundation, Engr. Jamiu Bamos also urged the Federal

Government to sign in to law the Occupational Health and Safety Bill (OHSB 2008) Bill before the National Assembly into law saying, the factory act which is presently being used has become obsolete.

In Lagos, stakeholders from the Bank and Health & Safety organisations maintained that health and safety issues are yet to take rightful place in the society

“This bill has been in the House since 2008, passing from one government to another. We want government to look into it and sign it to help set up health and safety in the proper way that it is done in the best practices and it will create more employment for health and safety professionals.

Badmos, who also commended government for signing the law on the Employee Compensation Act (2010), stated that though it is a good law but reactive in nature. “It is reactive in the sense that you compensate after an accident has happened. You can see the theme of the whole Health and Safety is: Preventive. It is a preventative culture and not a reactive culture,” he insisted.

Sterling Bank Group Head, Health, Safety & Environment, Mr. Benjamin Ighomereho who stated that the Bank sees health and safety as an important aspect of business, added that, health and safety is not just for the manufacturing and oil companies but financial institutions are also conscious of the safety measures.

32—Vanguard, TUESDAY, MAY 5, 2015

Malaria vaccine: NIMR upgrades facilities

By Chioma Obinna

A

S the world awaits a potential malaria vaccine, Nigerian scientists have explained that Nigeria was not included in the ongoing malaria phase 3 vaccine trial in seven African countries because the country (Nigeria) did not meet the laid down criteria at that time.

The promising malaria vaccine, RTS,S also The RTS,S Phase 3 efficacy trial of what is acclaimed the most clinically advanced malaria vaccine is ongoing in seven African countries has been tested on 16,000 children and is the first candidate vaccine to reach phase-3 clinical testing.

The experts who spoke in Lagos at a symposium held at the Nigerian Institute of Medical Research, NIMR, Yaba, to mark this year's World Malaria Day, called for more investment in local malaria research.

The Head, Malaria Research Group, NIMR, Dr. Sam Awolola said non availability of up to date trial sites was the major reason why Nigeria was excluded.

Awolola who said the development was a matter of concern, however said Nigeria had since developed functional sites that can work on any vaccine.

"NIMR started in 2013 and 2014 to characterise some sites. Today, we have sites where the malaria vaccine can be tried but at that time, when the trial was starting there was no clear evidence for

an area. Now, any research on any vaccine trial can be easily be accessed at NIMR. We are still talking with a number of companies like GSK for a potential vaccine trial."

Awolola lamented the menace of counterfeit malaria drugs which he said is responsible for the high rate of death parasite resistance to malaria drugs.

"We need more funding into malaria research if we want to totally address these challenges

and reduce deaths due to malaria," he added.

In his views, the Director General of NIMR, Prof. Innocent Ujah, represented by Director of Research, Nkiruka Odunukwe, said although the 2014 World Malaria Report showed that the malaria target under the Millennium Development Goal 6 had been met with 55 countries on track to reduce the malaria burden by 75 percent by the end

of 2015, the situation in Nigeria remained complex and contradictory.

"Whereas, malaria had accounted for over 60 percent of hospital out-patient visits, 25 percent infant deaths, 30 percent of all under-five and 11 percent of maternal mortality annually, all the efforts to improve on these figures through the National Malaria Elimination Programme has not significantly changed the

L-r: Ms. Dorcas Mashingil, Innovation Manager, Guinness Nigeria Plc,; M.I. Abaga; Ace Rapper, and Mr. Toluwalase Ogunyemi, Assistant Brand Manager, Spirit, at the Smirnoff Double Side party to launch Smirnoff Ice Double Black with Guarana Photo: Kehinde Gbadamosi

trend."

In his keynote address on the theme: 'Invest in the future, Defeat Malaria', Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Jide Idris said malaria had remained an issue of public health concern.

Idris explained that the use of the Long Lasting Insecticide Nets (LLINs) remained one of the most effective malaria vector control methods available to date in the fight against malaria.

Also speaking, Prof. Olubunmi Otubanjo, a Professor of Parasitology at the University of Ibadan said that malaria prevention and control should not be left out in the era of change as Nigeria begins a new dispensation.

Representative of the World Health Organisation, WHO, Dr. Tolu Arowolo, said there was the need to generate public awareness about the dangers of poor quality malaria drugs.

The President, Malaria Society of Nigeria, Dr. John Puddicombe, said just as the government at all levels has the responsibility to strengthen the health system, individually and as a group, the citizens also have a big stake.

Chicken pox Continues from Page 30 possibility of infection by the varicella-zoster virus.In rare cases, varicella-zoster virus can cause strokes in children and adults with compromised immune systems.

COMMON SEXUAL PROBLEMS AND THEIR NOVELTY BASED SOLUTIONS (ADVERTORIAL)

M

Y husband and I have three children and we have been fighting for a while now. We are overworked and have no nanny in the house. He wants to hire a nanny but I refuse because he cannot keep his hands off females– Ebele I can understand your concern and I have the perfect solution for this kind of problem. Hire amature woman in her mid to late fifties to do this job. She will come and go and not live in the house. Every family with children needs that extra help to maintain their house hold. Such help makes life easier and helps marriages last longer too– Uche Please things are difficult. I read your column and I want everything you write about but no money. what can help my woman and I have quality intercourse that we can afford? Gbenga Gbenga get a vibrating Cockring. It is a cheap and amazing toy that helps both sexes. For men, it helps them maintain their erections for up to twenty minutes even after ejaculation so that they can pleasure their women for longer. For women who complain of lack of foreplay and the inability to enjoy intercourse, the vibrating part of this Cockring stimulates the clitoris which can be even more pleasurable for women than penetrative intercourse – Uche I am 63 years old and I am very hypertensive. My erection is very weak but I cannot even come close to drugs of any kind. So I am very depressed because I am not dead yet and I have a wife in her forties, so how can my sex life be over. I want to enjoy life. I am still strong and active. I have heard of artificial penises and those kinds of things. Can it help me?Mr Sam Dear Sam, there are a few options that you can explore.

If you want to have intercourse with your own natural erection, then you can use a penis pump to get an erection.

The suction action of the pump that leads to enlargement also gives erections by drawing blood to the penis. Once you get an erection after pumping, you then wear a

Cockring to maintain the erection until you finish intercourse. This is option one. Option two is the use of aPenile Extension for intercourse. It is a plastic artificial penis that you wear over your own penis to enable you have intercourse. The advantage of artificial penises of this kind is that they come in various sizes. The biggest we have is ten inches long, very thick and impressive.

We also have the smaller ones of around six inches and eight inches. So these are your options. Good luck – Uche Is there anything you have for a man who just does not have the energy to have sex over and over – Tope There are many products that can give you the kind of sexual energy you want but they also do other things like giving you erections etc. But if pure sexual energy is all you desire, then ask for the Rock Hard Weekend Sexual performance enhancer drink. It works within minutes, is all natural and some say it boosts their libido too – Uche I had sex yesterday with experiencing premature ejaculation. I never expected the Gladiator Power Cream to work, but it did – Bassey I travel a lot so I need a vibrator that can give my wife quality pleasure in my absence. I also want your best penis enlargement pump. Thanks – Michael Hello Andy. Get her the Hunni Bunny Rabbit Vibrator and for yourself, go for the Potent Developer Pump – Uche I never expect any of these products to work but I must confess that I had good results with the Max Load drug that increases semen quantity. I will happily recommend it - Okon And that is it for today. Adults in need of the above novelties and treatments can call us on 08027901621 or 08051924159 or any other number here to order or they can order online at www.zeevirtualmedia.com. We deliver to you wherever you are in Nigeria. For enquiries email us at custserv@zeevirtualmedia.com - Uche Edochie, MD/CEO, Zee Virtual Media.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, MAY 5, 2015—33

•To mark World Malaria day, 2015, Total Group in Nigeria partnered Ibafon Community, Olodi Apapa, Lagos, in the “Net It Out” Project to provide and educate residents of the community on use of Long Lasting Insecticide Nets, LLINs. A management staff of Total Nigeria presenting a LLIN to a beneficiary during the exercise .

Malaria: 500 households ‘Net it Out’ in Ibafon

By Sola Ogundipe

I

T was a day to remember for residents of Ibafon Community, in Olodi-Apapa area of Lagos recently when in partnership with the Total Group in Nigeria, in partnership with the Lagos State Government, as 3,250 residents in 500 households were provided Long Lasting Insecticide Treated Nets, LLINs, in line with the global recommendations for malaria prevention.

Just before this year’s World Malaria Day, volunteers mobilised for the nets distribution programme facilitated by Kasher Consulting Ltd., embarked on community awareness, sensitisation and teaching/ assisting residents to effectively hang their nets.

The beneficiaries, mostly made up of children aged 5 years and below as well as pregnant women within the community, responded with enthusiastic excitement and expectation.

Grace, a nursing mother in the community said she used to own one of the LLINs years ago, but had not had opportunity to have a replacement since the net got worn out. “Ï have been looking forward to when I would own another net, especially for my 3-year-old son and baby who is just five months old,” she remarked.

Grace who was one of the numerous beneficiaries of the enlightement drive of the Net-itOut Project, on malaria prevention, said she also learned to properly set up and handle the net.

We know that in some areas people still have malaria but we chose this side as a place we can come to tell people about their health, educate them on how to prevent malaria

In a chat, Chiyenre Uche, Executive General Manager, Deep Water, in charge of administration, Total Nigeria said the joint effort is a way of giving back to society.

“We know that in some areas people still have malaria but we chose this side as a place we can come to tell people about their health, educate them on how to prevent mosquitoes from going into their rooms and generally on malaria prevention.

“We give out nets, insecticides and educate them on how to

prevent mosquito bites and also talk to them generally about mosquitoes so that they can be malaria free.

Uche, who opined that the project was yearly, as the company’s Coporate Social Responsibility, said this year, Ibafon was selected.

“A lot of people are eager about this, and we are quite pleased with the response,” she stated.

Also speaking, the company’s Corporate Affairs Manager, Mr Albert Novia said studies from previous programmes such as this showed that the intervention was successful in driving down the rate of malaria in the areas covered.

“We have a monitoring team and discovered the rate of malaria reports dropped by about 25 percent as against before. We also expect here also that when we come back to do monitoring analysis we expect the rate to reduce.

“We have a casual consultant who already has gone in to take samples of malaria incident and after this intervention, he is going to do another sample interview to know weather it has dropped.”

Further, Novia said: “If you have a community that is reporting frequent malaria incident and there is intervention, there will be a drop in the infection rate.

“If you have supplied a community with necessary materials to prevent malaria , you will be expecting change.

“We visited 500 homes and gave them two net s in each home. 1000 net multiply by four, that is almost about 4,000 people.

The attention was given to home which has children under five, women who are pregnant.

We were fortunate to visit homes where one women just gave birth nine days ago,”he noted.

The campaign was followed by a seminar with doctors enlightening the people on a new approach to handle malaria cases,. The community was also encouraged to go for tests before administering antimalaria drugs. In a response, the Community Head, Ibafon expressed gratitude and pledged total support to the malaria prevention initiative.

Bode, Grillo Continues from Page 31 He rose to become Professor of Surgery in 2010 and served LUTH as SERVCOM Nodal Officer from 2008-2012 and as Chairman, Medical Advisory Committee from 2012-14.

Bode was Secretary General of the West African College of Surgeons from 2001-2007 and Treasurer, Pan African Association of Surgeons (PAAS) among others.

Grillo, 51, an alumnus of the University of Lagos where he graduated in Sociology in 1989, has Masters degrees in Industrial Sociology, Public Administration and Business Administration.

He is a member of many professional Associations and has over 24 years post-M.Sc experience as a seasoned administrator.

Grillo has served in various management and Board committees at the LUTH and was appointed Acting Director of Administration on 30th September, 2014 while his appointment was substantive Director of Administration was confirmed 30th March, 2015.

... As WDI facilitates free treatment in Alimosho

By Gabriel Olawale

I

N a bid to reduce absenteeism from work and eliminate the scourge of malaria, Westfield Development Initiative, WDI, a non-governmental orgainsation has offer free malaria treatment to the resident of Alimosho Local Government Area of Lagos state.

The programme which has over 700 people in attendance offer free malaria treatment, HIV/AIDs screening, blood pressure test, blood sugar tests, and free insecticide treated mosquito nets.

Speaking during the exercise to celebrate World Malaria Day, Executive Director, WDI, Ms. Omobola Lana said that it sadden to note that malaria still remain a major public health problem in Nigeria as it accounts for over 60 percent outpatient visits and 30 percent hospital admissions in the country.

"Malaria is highly endemic in Nigeria. It poses a major challenge to the country as it impedes human development. It

is both a cause and consequence of underdevelopment and remains one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality in the country. Malaria accounts for about 60 percent of all visits to public health facilities, 30 percent of hospital admissions are also due to malaria. It is responsible for 29 percent of childhood death, 25 percent of infant mortality and 11 percent of maternal mortality.

"The disease has impacted negatively on the economy with about 132 Billion Naira lost to the disease as cost of treatment and loss in man-hours resulting from sickness absence and cost of treatment. It is a major cause of absenteeism from work and school. It contributes to poverty and results in poor pregnancy outcome."

Lana noted that once the country is able to reduce its malaria burden, the productivity level will also increase, "and prosperity of our people will increase, that will contribute to the development of our country," she noted.

On his part, the patron WDI, Mr Gboyega Fatimilehin liken the exercises to a token out of what the organization intend to do.

"What we intend to do is to have minimum of 20 malaria centres around Alimosho area where people can enter and access free treatment. We are building one

presently at Diamond estate which is expected to be completed early October."

"The idea behind this centre is to have our free malaria service render on regular basis so that people can access care on time.

We are in talk with Lagos State government to give us land, so

•A patient undergoing blood pressure check during the WDI free Medical Mission held at Alimosho LGA recently.

34—VANGUARD, TUESDAY, MAY 5, 2015

quickly investigate the activities of the board and called on the Universal Basic Education Commission, UBEC, to stop further dealings with ENSUBEB. The position of the House was sequel to a petition brought before it by two members of ENSUBEB, who accused the chairman of financial recklessness.

It also commenced investigation into a N3.6 billion contract awarded by ENSUBEB. Accountant General’s arrest: The State Accountant General, Pascal Okolie, who had refused to appear before the House was also ordered to be arrested.

Okolie was asked to furnish the House with detailed documents of recurrent and capital expenditures of the executive from last year.

The House, again, reiterated its resolution urging the executive to stop the sale of land in the following places: International Conference Centre, ICC; old Eastern Nigeria Industrial Centre situated at Zik Avenue; the Land adjacent to the Assembly Complex and Enugu Water Corporation.

•Odoh: Embattled Speaker

•Chime: Embattled governor

ENUGU HOUSE: Last minute offensive THE Enugu State House of Assembly which had been seemingly docile, suddenly at the twilight of the present administration woke from its slumber accusing the executive arm of gross misconduct.

T

By Francis Igata

HE House has suddenly turned its searchlight on the activities of Governor Sullivan Chime’s administration, raising questions over what could have informed its decision at this time.

Attempt by Chime’s Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Chukwudi Achife to hinge the move on the inability of the Speaker of the House, Mr. Eugene Odoh, to realise his governorship ambition, was dismissed as misleading by observers.

Odoh is believed to have had a healthy working relationship with Chime, resulting in his tactful handling of the leadership crisis that trailed the governor ’s protracted absence from office in 2013.

Resisting a groundswell of pressure to work against the governor was construed as a favour, which was likely to be reciprocated with the governorship ticket which was zoned to Enugu-North Senatorial District where Odoh hails from.

However, the emergence of Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi as the C M Y K

Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, candidate in December 2014, set the stage for the deteriorated relationship between Chime and the House.

But the House is not seeing its latest move as being vindictive but rather the need for probity among all arms of government it claimed to have motivated its decision.

So far, the current efforts appear to have uncovered series of financial malfeasances allegedly committed by the executive.

Loan saga Vanguard learned that the House is also saddened by the governor’s desperate bid to secure an Irrevocable Standing Order Loan, ISOL, when the state’s debt profile stood at over N40.8 billion.

The House had hurriedly rejected the request wondering why an administration that has barely four week to go would want to obtain a loan of N11 billion.

It further regretted that the loan of N5.2 billion Chime took

from World bank for the financing of water reticulation in the state was not judiciously used.

Speaking on the matter, a lawmaker representing Udenu Constituency, Mr. Ikechukwu Ezugwu, said,” Governor Chime took this loan of N5.2 billion and has not started

Fiscal irresponsibility paying back. He jettisoned the pipes they laid having found out that their efforts to supply water is futile and went to concession the Water Corporation.”

On his part, Mr. Michael Onyeze, who represents IgboEze North constituency said,”The governor ’s annoyance is that we threw away his bid to get us approve an Irrevocable Standing Order Loan of six months for him.

Withholding of salaries

So far, the current efforts appear to have uncovered series of financial malfeasances allegedly committed by the executive

That is why he has withheld our salaries. With the ISOL of six months,it will mean that we will have two governors. Chime and Ugwuanyi. Chime will be issuing his own cheque from his house for six months while Ugwuanyi will be issuing his from Government House.”

ENSUBEB: Faced with these alleged anomalies, the House was left with no option than to take some measures.

One of such responses was the freezing of all accounts of the Enugu State Universal Basic Education Board, ENSUBEB, over alleged financial recklessness by the its Chairman, Miss Nneka Onuorah.

It consequently urged the Economic Financial Crime Commission, EFCC, to

The House is not the only stakeholder that thinks the governor has not judiciously managed the affairs of the state. The state All Progressives Congress, APC, Chairman Mr. Ben Nwoye, said: “The governor has shown fiscal irresponsibility from the day he took office. He is leaving the state worse off financially than he inherited.

Chime administration’s penchant for borrowing without approval will drown whatever efforts that is geared towards developing the state. His successor will end up borrowing to service these loans especially now that there is a decline in oil revenue.

“The last minute efforts by the House to question his financial recklessness though belated is worthy. We will rise up against this impunity from May 29 when his immunity will cease to exist.”

House moves to impeach Chime Undaunted the House of presided over by Speaker, Eugene Odoh, sat yesterday with 13 other members at about 5.30am at the assembly complex and ordered the Clerk, Mr. Christopher Chukwurah to immediately serve the Governor Chime an impeachment notice over financial misconduct.

At the sitting the House also

Continues on page 35

VANGUARD, TUESDAY, MAY 5, 2015—35

without his deputy whom the governor was elected alongside.I think the impeachment plot by the Ondo state House of Assemble is preposterous and it is sarcastic to treat the deputy governor as a personal staff of the governor. For further clarification and avoidance of doubt, the lawmakers behind the impeachment plot should come public on what constitute gross misconduct as used against Olanusi.

There has been an ensuing power tussle between the APC and PDP legislators as well as the Governor of Ekiti State, Mr. Ayo Fayose, how would you describe the trend?It is very sad that such a scenario is playing out in Nigeria because it makes us look as if we are in a banana republic.

Banana republic

•Edojah

Olanusi’s impeachment is a mockery of the legislature — Edojah HON Solomon Edoja, a former member of the House of Representatives representing Ethiope Federal constituency was in Kwara State for six months to help salvage the state chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) after the mass exodus of many politicians in the state to the All Progressives Congress (APC). Now a member of the APC in Delta State, he speaks on the recent impeachment of the Ondo State Deputy Governor as well as the power tussle between PDP and APC legislators in Ekite State. Excerpts:

By Perez Brisibe

W

HAT is your reaction to the impeachment of the Ondo State Deputy Governor on charges of gross misconduct?Everything that took place in the Ondo House of Assembly drama that led to the impeachment of the Ondo State Deputy Governor, Alhaji Ali Olanusi, is a charade, a mockery of the legislative arm of government at the state level and a caricature of the constitutional provision for impeachmentTo crown it all, the sending of names for replacement and subsequent confirmation and swearing in is

premeditated and highly regrettable. Each of these actions by the lawmakers clearly show that they have lost direction and simply an arm of the executive.

They claimed that the deputy governor was impeached on allegation of gross misconduct, if I may ask, what is gross misconduct? Is it that, when a Governor defects to another party it is not gross misconduct but when his deputy defects to another party it is gross misconduct? The deputy governor is an elected officer of Ondo State Government and the election of the governor, Dr. Olusegun Mimiko cannot stand

ENUGU HOUSE: Last minute offensive constitution Continues from page 34 suspended its Deputy Speaker, Chime Oji,Deputy House Leader, John Ukuta and Chinedu Nwamba. This is apart from Johnbull Nwagu that had been suspended last month.

Quorum for impeachment Following the suspension of four of its members in a 24 member House,the two-third quorum prescribed by the C M Y K

for the impeachment was achieved.

Deputy Speaker forms splinter group Deputy Speaker,Chime Oji,presided over a parallel siting later in the assembly complex with eight other members where it suspended the Speaker, Eugene Odoh,House Leader, Sunday Ude-Okoye and others.

The sitting also met the quorum, which is one-third of the members.

How can the executive arm use the Nigeria Police to prevent 19 elected members from entering the Ekiti State House of Assembly while encouraging another seven members to sit in the chamber of the House and make laws for the good (bad) governance of Ekiti state? If I may ask, is democracy still the government by the majority in Ekiti state?

Everything happening in Ekiti State seems to portray Nigeria as an unserious country. How can this be going on for months and the Federal Government that controls the Police is looking the other way by playing the ostrich?

I am using this medium to call on the new Acting Inspector of General of Police to immediately ensure that he provides a level playing field for all members to

sit at the chamber without further delay. If the Governor of Ekiti is doing well as the case of the Governor of Nassarawa state whose party controls the minority in the House of assembly, he cannot be impeached.

The people will rise against them as was the case in Nassarawa and the impeachment plot will fail.For the various state Houses of Assembly, they must justify their existence and add value to democracy. If they continue to function as house -helps of their governors then there may be a public outcry demanding the abolition of the various Houses of Assembly.

Governors must remain in their states and perform their constitutional duties rather than junketing to Abuja as unnecessary interloper and in Federal Government activities and no state Governor who has not served as a lawmaker must be allowed into the Senate.

Ahead of the eigth National Assembly, we would be having many state governors as

The lawmakers behind the impeachment plot should come public on what constitute gross misconduct as used against Olanusi

senators. Is this as a positive trend for democracy?

Let me use this opportunity to caution the unhealthy development of governors coming to the Senate either as a resting place or seeking protection from the law or making themselves politically relevant.

Loss of experienced legislators The list has grown from six exgovernors in 2007 to 16 of them in 2015.After reducing and degrading their Houses of Assembly these governors come to the Senate with the same mind set they applied on their assemblies. We have lost experienced legislators and resources except in some few cases.

Personally, I feel these exgovernors have no role to play in the National Assembly. Rather, they have introduced all kinds of ridiculous allowances that have made the recurrent budget of the National Assembly to be on the increase. This trend must stop if democracy must survive.

Ex-governors who are willing to participate in lawmaking must seek election into their state Houses of Assembly.

In all, the incoming lawmakers must cut down on their allowances, ostentatious lifestyles, avoid connivance with ministries and departments and agencies.

They should note that the era of embarking on oversight to intimidate and blackmail these MDA’s with the purpose of extortion are over as the Buhari Administration will not hesitate to prosecute all offenders including the lawmakers and their collaborators.

PDP AND 2015 ELECTIONS: A post mortem

By Alfred Hember Terngu

G

ENERAL elections have come and gone but the accompanying dust is yet to settle; strained relationships yet to be amended and bruised egos yet to heal.

The dust may never truly settle and the relationships may never be amended while bruised egos may never heal. In some camps, it is the jubilation of victory while other camps revel in the agony of defeat. The new ruling party, the All Progressives Congress (APC) is jubilating in its muchdeserved and long-fought for victory and while the soon-toerstwhile ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is in understandable agony.

As a loyal and committed party man, I have been asking myself many questions and I hardly have available answers for them hence this method of putting thoughts to paper.

I stare long and hard into

space; I lay awake at night and often times, I ask myself: How did we get here? Where did we get it wrong? How did we get it wrong?

The Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese Bishop Mathew Hassan Kukah, while delivering a convocation lecture at Ebonyi State University last Friday posited that President Jonathan lost because the PDP could not deal with the issues of greed and arrogance of some of its men and women while in power.

Internal cohesion The revered Bishop said the the party became insensitive to the needs of its supporters, had no mechanism for internal cohesion and simply believed that it was the elephant that could never be slayed. How fatally wrong!

I will lay the blame of this defeat on the feet of our field

commanders; and who were our field commanders? I daresay the PDP state governors. They brought us to this land of Egypt.

It is the atrocious attitude of the PDP governors which saw to the gang-up against President Goodluck Jonathan after the party’s convention at the Eagle Square thereby staging a walkout from the venue, joined by other party faithfuls who also felt aggrieved.

The governors would later decamp in droves to the APC with their supporters and members of State Houses of Assembly.

These acts emboldened members of the House of Representatives and Senators to follow suit thereby depleting the ranks of PDP in the legislative arm of government. As the APC Governors were luring PDP lawmakers with automatic and governorship tickets, shifting ground when and where

Continues from page 36

36—VANGUARD, TUESDAY, MAY 5, 2015

KOGI WEST: Dino’s deed can't stand — Adeyemi Mr. Abidemi Adeyemi, the minority whip of the Kogi State House of Assembly aspired for the ticket of the All Progressives Congress, APC for Kogi West Senatorial District but failed to the eventual nominee, Dino Melaye in the party primary. In this interview he gives his perspectives of what transpired prior to and following the election asserting that the declaration of Dino Melaye would not stand the test of time. Excerpts:

By Emmanuel Aziken, Political Editor

Y

OU contested the Senatorial ticket under the platform of APC in December 2014, but we understand that you are still raising issues of irregularities against the eventual winner, Hon Dino Melaye. How did it all happen?

I have always said it both on the social media and the print media that Dino Melaye did not win the Kogi West senatorial primaries of the APC in December 2014. He did not defeat me at all. I insist that the result of the primaries which was presented to INEC was forged. There was no primary and the INEC report certified that there was no primary in Kogi West. I didn’t contest with him. He ran away with the material. So, where did he get the figures?

Could t be that the primaries was conducted in a different place?

That is questionable because close to 2,000 delegates were present in Kabba, the Senatorial Headquarters. So, did he contest his own primaries with trees when over 2,000 certified delegates were in Kabba waiting for the

Dino is trying to short-change the Nigerian Constitution. He is not eligible to be a Senator and that is why the judiciary will remove him in no time. I can assure you about that

material to come? How did he stage-manage his own in Lokoja to have come up with a result?

So, why did you not go to court over that matter before the general election?

In fairness, we would have gone to court, but we saw Dino as someone that lacks the capacity to win the election.

Could it be possible that all the petitions you wrote did not get to the headquarters?

I was in the headquarters for one week personally. I met with the party leaders, the legal team, I was even in the office of the National Chairman and all the papers received were duly stamped. Are they now saying that they didn’t see the INEC report in the national dailies as well indicting APC and Dino of not conducting primaries?

Now that, Dino has been elected as a Senator, is the case not closed?

The case is not closed at all.

It is like a criminal case, you cannot say because somebody steals today and you didn’t catch him, so if you catch him five years after you will not prosecute him. It is a preelection matter and we are pursuing it. Though Dino has been declared an elected

•Adeyemi: Dino lacks the capacity to win election Senator and by God’s grace, he will be disgraced out of that position. There was no party resolution to the effect that he is a candidate and there was no primary. Dino is trying to short-change the Nigerian Constitution. He is not eligible to be a Senator and that is why the judiciary will remove him in no time. I can assure you about that.

PDP AND 2015 ELECTIONS: A post mortem Continues from page 35 necessary, our imperial PDP governors, on the other hand, with impunity, supplanted serving members of state and federal legislature with their stooges and loyalists through kangaroo and sham primary elections.

Even in some cases when their preferred candidate fails to win, results were blatantly rewritten in their favour. A case in point is my own Benue State, other examples suffice.

They are: Plateau and Kogi States in North Central, Cross River and Akwa Ibom in South-South, Bauchi and Adamawa in North East, Jigawa, Katsina and Kebbi in North West and Ondo in South West.

In these states, PDP suffered monumental losses except in Cross River and Akwa Ibom that are majorly PDP states without any pronounced presence of opposition parties.

This, though, has changed since after the primaries as opposition parties have continued to grow in ranks by the day.

However, the governors didn’t only deny incumbent legislators tickets in these states, they also

fenced them out of the party.

Let’s take Benue State, for instance, where a former National Chairman of PDP and serving Senator Barnabas Gemade was denied the PDP Senatorial ticket and also fenced out of the party. Gemade cried out to the party at national level but they all turned deaf ears.

Incumbent governor Since he has political life left in him (quoting Ogbuagu Francis Arthur Nzeribe) he had no option than to move to APC from where he defeated the incumbent Governor of Benue State; Gabriel Suswam thereby demystifying the notional invincibility of State Governors.

The same scenario was replicated in Cross River State where the state governor, Senator Liyel Imoke ensured that the current Senate Leader, Senator Victor Ndoma-Egba, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria and Senator Bassey Otu did not return to National Assembly for reasons best known to him.

Senator Bassey Otu decamped to Labour Party and contested the election for which

pundits believe he won but was rigged out in favour of the PDP candidate.

Senator Ndoma-Egba, on the other hand, out of principle rebuffed entreaties by opposition parties and supporters to decamp to the opposition LabourParty or APC and contest the Senatorial election.

He hoped till the final minute that the party will do justice to his case as I read in one publication by late December 2014 where he cried out to PDP National that the Cross River State chapter of the party is trying to annihilate him politically; that he has never been invited for any party function for three years running.

To this end, the Party did nothing, and this baffles me for a man of such standing in the party to be so ignored; the Leader of the Senate and a member of the highest decision making organ of the party, the NEC. If he could be so ignored and fenced out of the party, I have since wondered the essence of his continued sojourn in PDP. I advice that people who have similar cases as Ndoma-Egba should not stand aloof, but

Have you initiated any legal effort to ensure his removal?

I am five hundred percent joining all legal efforts to remove him, so long as it is within the legal framework.

Dino cannot represent me, he cannot represent my people, he cannot represent my family and he cannot represent my tribe.

As a party man, did you reach out to Hon. Dino, over the APC ticket?

Politics is not by force. Party is not by force. If a man has stolen my mandate, in essence, I’m the one that is supposed to occupy the office which he is.

That is the implication.

Essence of labour

•Jonathan

instead join the APC or any other political party to help enrich our democratic process.

In conclusion, I will advice APC not to allow any of these former PDP governors into their fold.

They should stay back in PDP and clear the mess they made as this is one big lesson that has to be learnt the very hard and tortuous way. *Terngu writes fro m Makurdi Benue State.

How will I now reach out to such a person? Darkness and light cannot live together.

Whether he reaches out to me or I reach out to him, I can’t work with Dino. We are not in the same league.

You eventually contested the Senatorial ticket on the platform of the LP, What is the strength of the Labour Party in Kogi West?

It’s a very weak party. It’s a party we are looking at as the party of the future because we felt the more developed a society is, the more there is a tendency to understand the essence of labour.

But there is the belief that the Labour Party is losing its steam don’t you think the light might be dimming for the party?

The political history of every party, every nation, there is a time that looks like that. But just as I said, Labour Party is a party of the future.

C M Y K

Vanguard, TUESDAY, MAY 5, 2015— 37

38 — Vanguard, TUESDAY, MAY 5, 2015

•Osborne jetty

Water transportation: Three modern jetties ready for operation

By Olasunkanmi Akoni

T

HE countdown to the inauguration of a new administration in the state has begun. So also is the attendant high expectations by residents.

One of the major issues is the need to develop alternative means of transportation given resources of the state.

Water transportation corridors One of the alternatives being developed by the government is water transportation through which seven corridors were identified for development and mass transportation.

These include: Ijede-Badore, Badore-Admiralty-Osborne Marina, Ikorodu-Marina, Ijegun Egbe which around Okokomaiko that will burst out at Mile 2 to Marina, Oke-Afa in Isolo to Festac to Mile 2 to Marina, Ajegunle to Marina and Iddo to Marina.

Indeed, tackling the transportation and traffic challenges of Lagos has been a major priority of the present administration of Governor Babatunde Fashola in the last eight years. In 2014, the state witnessed the worst year in water transport accidents, as many lives were lost due to negligence of waterways operators.

Changing lifestyle: However, the ferry service at Ikorodu has brought significant changes to the lifestyle of people in that part

of the state. The park and ride system (park your vehicle at the terminal, board the ferry, return later to pick your vehicle) is a boost to the ferries.

The ferry operation along the Ikorodu- Marina corridor began at the end of February, 2009 but was actually commissioned by Fashola on April 21, 2009.

Commissioner for Transportation, Kayode Opeifa, giving an account of stewardship of his ministry before newsmen in Alausa, Ikeja, explained that like it is being done in most of its developmental projects, the state government is partnering with the private sector to actualize the noble vision for the transport sector.

Govt-private partnership The nature of the partnership is that the state government creates an enabling environment while the private sector provides the necessary infrastructure in terms of jetties, terminal, ferries, among others, as well as engage in public enlightenment campaigns and generally create the environment that will make people comfortable with water transportation.

Speaking on the modern jetties, Opeifa said: “We want to appeal to investors that the waterways are open and viable for business as three modern jetties for bigger

ferry operation are ready for commissioning at Ikorodu, Mile 2 and Badore, while the fourth, Osborne Jetty, which was delayed due to litigation will soon recommence work at the site.”

It will be recalled that Opeifa’s counterpart on Works and Infrastructure, Dr. Femi Hamzat, had earlier disclosed that the state government was set to recommence work on the controversial Osborne Jetty in Ikoyi, following the judgement by a Federal High Court in Lagos that gave the state government the right to construct the ferry terminal in the area.

According to Hamzat, the judgement was given based on the fact that the construction of the jetty had started before the commencement of the housing estate in the area.

Osborne jetty: He said: “Last

Private car owners leave their cars in the car park to board a ferry thereby, avoiding the man hours lost to heavy traffic

week (two weeks ago) the court gave the state government the go ahead on the construction of Osborne Jetty after the residents took us to court in an attempt to stop it. So we are ready to recommence construction work on the jetty which is one of the four jetties the state government has embarked on to address the state’s transport challenge and in furtherance of the administration’s inter-modal transportation system in the state.”

Hamzat who lamented that litigations had been one of the major challenges obstructing fast pace of infrastructural development in the state, stressed that the major plank of the policy of the administration has been the inter-modal transportation system.

Inter-modal transportation He added, “being a state with immense waterways, it makes sense to leverage upon the water bodies to move the people, hence, the administration began the construction of model jetties to promote the use of water transportation.”

Hamzat noted that aside reducing travel time, generating employment, the Osborne jetty project which was awarded in March 2008, will directly improve socio-economic activities

around the area.

Regretting several mishaps on waterways recorded last year.

Opeifa advised patrons and operators to ‘’always operate by the rule, wear life jackets, avoid over loading, over speeding and should not operate outside the safe period among others.

“We are however, proud to say rider-ship has improved to about 1,800,000 - 2, 000,000 monthly from 500, 000 monthly in 2012.

LAGFERRY berths “We have also established a passenger carriage company LAGFERRY to stimulate Private Sector Participation and set standard in operation.

Our efforts to inject five big ferries in 2014 however, did not materialize due to some technicalities not envisaged.”

Ferry service operation The ferry system has really brought significant changes to the lives of people of Ikorodu area. Instead of many leaving home for Victoria Island as early as 4.am, they now leave at 7am to arrive at CMS on or before 8am. Significantly, private car owners leave their cars in the car park to board a ferry to CMS thereby, avoiding the man hours lost to heavy traffic and discomfort among others that are usually associated with road traffic.

How it began: The history of ferry service in the state can be traced to the 1970s, when Lagos was the Federal Capital. Then the Federal Inland Revenue Service operated ferry services to Apapa, CMS, Ebute- Ero and other locations. Later, the State Continues on page 39

Vanguard, TUESDAY, MAY 5, 2015 — 39

Re-designed Apapa Amusement Park re-opens August

By Dotun Ibiwoye

T

HE Apapa Amusement Park which used to be one of the most popular and well equipped recreational facilities in the country, will soon be reopened.

Apart from being a source of amusement and recreation for those patronising it, the park also creates employment opportunities for people.

The huge number of people coming to the park has led several residents to engage in various commercial activities to better their lots.

Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism and Inter-government Relations, Mr. Disu Holloway, said that the once-flourishing

park, shut down some years ago because of illegal activities of certain individuals, had been given to a private firm through concession for comprehensive rehabilitation.

Holloway stated that the Apapa Amusement Park redesigned to provide a family relaxation destination, has new features such as a multipurpose hall, 20 different rides for children and adults, ticketing and information centre, walk way, car park, indoor games area and children’s game area among others.

In March 2012, Lagos State government shut down the park and demolished many structures around the place,

citing environmental and security concerns.

The State Task Force on Environmental carried out the demolition in which no fewer than 44 buildings were

Apart from being a source of amusement and recreation for those patronising it, the park also creates employment opportunities

Water transportation: Three modern jetties ready for operation Continues from page 38 Government under the Lateef Jakande administration came up with its Ferry service, when it purchased its ferry boats, “Baba Kekere” and “Ita Faji”, to operate very effective services. In fact, the Ferry Services Corporation was established to run the service.

The effective and efficient service run by the corporation has continued to be a reference point in the state, well over 25 years after.

The state Ferry Service Corporation established to provide effective service is no more operating as the National Inland Waterways Authority Act (Repeal) Law 2008 has created the Lagos State Waterways Authority, which is already functional with a supervisory board inaugurated by Fashola to monitor the private operators and ensure they operate within the provisions of the Inland Waterways Law.

Inland waterways The Federal Inland Waterways Authority had opposed moves by the State Government to take control of its inland waterways.

According to the Corporation, it had the exclusive preserve by virtue of the National Inland Waterways Act (NIWA), to operate ferry services, license operators and monitor their activities.

The state government countered this on the basis that the NIWA Law the corporation based its actions and legitimacy on had been repealed by the National Inland Waterways Authority (Repeal) Law. The controversy continued till the state government signed into Law the National State Inland Waterways (Repeal) Law, which

created the Lagos State Inland Waterways Authority, as the sole authority on matters affecting inland waterways in the state.

Signing the Bill into Law in June 2008, Fashola said the state government’s action in putting in place the new law was constitutional. According to him, the Constitution provides a procedure to modify a Federal Act enacted before 1999, which at commencement of the Constitution is found to fall within the legislative competence of the state.

Cowries; Marina – Oworonshonki; Ebute Ojo – Ijegun Egba; Oworonshonki – Five Cowries and Baiyeku – Langbasa) under the supervision of Lagos State Waterways Authority while passenger traffic has grown to over one million passengers per month and is increasing.

affected, including a church.

Chairman of the Task Force said that the action was taken to return the park to its former glory.

He also noted that that those who were handed the management of the park had converted some sections of the recreation area to burial ground for their dead relatives.

Holloway had on May 20, 2012, said, “the state government hopes to return the Apapa Amusement Park to its former glory in about 18 months through a public private partnership deal”

Public private partnership Last week, at the Ministerial Press briefing in commemoration of the second term, fourth year in office of Governor Babatunde Fashola (SAN), Holloway said : “Government concessioned the rehabilitation of the park to a private organization in furtherance of the promotion of the Public Private Partnership (PPP) initiatives for improvement in the tourism sector. Work is at an advanced stage and the park should be opened to the public by the

third quarter of this year.

On September 6, 2013, a memorandum of understanding was signed between Nars Ltd and Lagos State government to deliver “world class tourist destination latest December 2014”in appreciation of his selection.

The Nars Managing Director, Mr. Ibrahim Heider, had said: “From the ashes of the old Amusement Park demolished in April last year, would emerge 13 amusement and entertainment rides for children and adults, gaming machines, cinema, gift shops, sewage, security and medical facilities that would meet international standard.”

According to him, the new park is projected to serve about 10,000 people monthly, with a daily patronage put at between 1,000 to 2,000, while it would have a parking lot that could cater for 1,000 vehicles daily.

He assured Lagosians of the readiness of his company to bring back the old nostalgia of the Apapa Amusement Park, as no effort would be spared in making the place a real park to relax and recreate, have fun and regenerate.

The Apapa Amusement Park was established in 1975.

Legislative competence He said the power to modify was defined to include the power to repeal Section 315(4) (c) of the Law. Therefore, the continued regulation of water transportation by the Federal Agency would impede the legitimate constitutional aspiration of the state government to explore and develop water transportation in the state. In order to sustain and attract residents to water transportation, the state government has been constructing jetties across the state.

Also, repairs are being carried out on Epeme and Iya Afin jetties. When all the designated corridors for the ferry service become fully operational, they will not only reduce excess reliance on roads as only means of transportation, but also reduce air pollution.

Today, from one operation route in 2007, Lagos is running water transport on 12 routes (IkoroduMarina/CMS; Marina – Mile 2; Ikorodu–Addax/Falomo; Ikorodu-Ebute Ero; MarinaIjegun Egba-Ebute-Ojo; Mile 2– Marina/CMS-Mekwen-Falomo; Badore – Ijede; Badore – Five

•LASTMA patrol vehicles

LASG rolls out LASTMA enforcement/patrol vehicles

By Olasunkanmi Akoni

T

HE state government is set to launch over 200 vehicles, equipped with modern communication gadgets to improve patrol and enforcement of the state road traffic law.

According to Opeifa, the vehicles which are awaiting commissioning by the governor,

would soon be deployed for operation.

The cars are painted in LASTMA and green colours of the state. “Equipped with modern communication gadgets, the cars will be deployed to the 20 Local Government and 57 Local Council Development Areas, LCDAs, for better monitoring and enforcement of the state Road Traffic Law, 2012,” Opeifa stated.

40—Vanguard, TUESDAY, MAY 5, 2015

Senate President: APC must avoid pitfall

By Biodun Bakare

T

HE eighth Senate will be inaugurated by June 4, 2015 and all eyes are already on the hallowed chamber regarding who will emerge the number one Senator in the country under the new dispensation. Right from 1999 when, against all odds the late Senator Evan Enwerem emerged the Senate president to other Senate presidents that emerged after him like late Senator Chuba Okadigbo (1999 -2000), Anyim Pius Anyim (20002003), Adolphus Wabara (20032005), Ken Nnamani (2005-2007), and current President, David Mark, the process leading to their emergence has always been that of suspense and surprise, filled with extensive political lobbying and intrigues.

Of all the Senate presidents that have emerged since 1999, only the incumbent Senator David Mark representing Benue South has been able to evade the popular ‘banana peel’ that successfully brought down about three Senate Presidents between 1999 and 2007. Since 2007 when Mark emerged, the banana peel seems to have been swept away and so far he remains the longest serving Senate president in the nation’s history.

However, the recent development in the political arena, especially the result of 2015 election in the country has changed the setting with All Progressive Congress winning 60 out of the 109 senatorial seats across the country, leaving People Democratic Party with 49.

Senate president, David Mark on June 4. It must be noted that Benue State has had a fair share of Senate Presidents starting with Iyorchia Ayu (1992-93) Ameh Ebute (1993) and presently Senator David Mark who has been on the saddle for eight years running since 2007. It will, therefore, be fair to say that another state in the North Central should be given a chance thus allowing the position to go round in spirit of fairness and equity, thus ensuring that every sector is given the opportunity to participate in governance.

This will, not doubt, open the opportunity to other states in the zone especially now that a candidate from Kwara, a state that has not had the privilege of holding the position before, has signified his intention with the hope that other states in the zone,

Principal officer The office of the Senate President and the principal officer will automatically move to APC except if the Enwerem’s political coup of 1999 or Tambuwal/ Ihedioha conspiracy of 2011 resurfaces which might see PDP forming alliance with11 APC Senators with one of them emerging as Deputy under a PDP Senate Presidency thus beating APC to it.

Presently, the All Progressives Congress has zoned the office of Senate president to the North Central, comprising Kwara, Kogi, Benue, Niger, Nassarawa and Plateau states and the two visible candidates for the position are the Senator representing Kwara Central and Chairman of Senate Committee on Environment and Ecology, the Turaki of Ilorin, Senator Abubakar Bukola Saraki, and the Minority Leader of the Senate, representing Benue North West, Senator George Akume.

The fact that the two candidates are ex-Governors of their respective states points to a fierce battle ahead as each of them strives to woo their colleagues to vote for them when the senate sits

Map of Nigeria

Senator Bukola Saraki Kogi, Niger, Plateau and Nassarawa, will take their turn in the nearest future. In addition to this is the need for balance of power in the APC which should be carefully preserved if the party will like to avoid pit falls which PDP overlooked over the years and eventually consumed the party.

The PDP which was in power at the Federal level for 16 years overlooked the issue of fairness across the party which is very important in politics. This can be seen from the choice of candidates, preference for certain powers blocks over others and continuous dependence on advise and guide from a clique to the detriment of others.

Stabilising the new party

The eighth Nigerian Senate deserves first class leadership that will not only complement the incoming GMB Government but will be ready with right answers to our legislative questions and challenges

This worked against the party in many ways, especially the exit of New PDP along with five Governors from Sokoto, Rivers, Kwara, Kano and Adamawa which sufficiently strengthened the APC and stabilized the new party effectively.

In picking the new Senate President, The APC should learn to balance power effectively and this should be used from the onset as the party gradually consolidates it’s position at the federal level. It will be recalled that All Progressives Congress emerged last year after four power blocks came together and agreed to forge ahead politically.

Thus the new party was midwived through these political combination and gradually

Senator George Akume forged its way ahead as a strong opposition party in the county confronting the ruling People Democratic Party in all spheres and campaigned for votes from Nigerians with its slogan “Change”.

The party eventually succeeded in winning the presidential election, the first victory by opposition against a siting government in Nigeria. The Presidential candidate of APC and now president-elect General Muhammdau Buhari had contested for presidency three times earlier, in 2003, 2007, 2011 and 2015 which he won after working with the coalition comprising his CPC, the ANPP, ACN and the new PDP which pulled out of PDP after the party’s convention and decided to merge with opposition. Presently CPC has produced the President from North West, ACN has produced the Vice president from South West while the third group ANPP produced the National Chairman from South-South leaving the fourth group, the New PDP which in the opinion of many political analysts should produce the Senate President. The position they believe, should go to Dr Bukola Saraki to balance political appointment salong the power blocks which have so far remained united and the unity should be protected to avoid cracks at this stage.

Apart from all this, Dr. Saraki has proven himself not only as a good Governor ruling Kwara State for eight years and revolutionizing Agriculture in the State, he also led the Governors

Forum efficiently and effectively, elevating it to higher status in the country. He showed great character and maturity, moulding the forum together. That there were no divisions in the forum proved he was a great leader capable of building bridges across political divides. Such clout and charisma are essential qualities for a man who will lead the legislative arm of the government.

Also, It is on record that the doctrine of necessity which resolved the political logjam that came up during the sickness and eventual death of late President Yar’ Adua was muted by the Saraki - led Governor’s forum. He eventually led the governors to the Senate floor to ensure that the proposal saw the light of day and eventually Vice- President Goodluck Jonathan became Acting President and later President and Commander in Chief of the Nigerian Armed forces. Earlier he had served as special assistant on Budget to President Olusegun Obasanjo where he equally distinguished himself.

Speaking on this issue recently, a respected columnist and publisher of Ovation Magazine, Mr. Dele Momodu said, “Saraki appeals to a lot of younger folks because the next Senate President is going to have maybe about 20 or more senators as Governors, so we need a man who understands them very well, I remember when he was the Chairman of Nigeria Governors Forum, he was able to hold the forum very well, he was able to carry his colleagues along in policies and in so many other ways.”

Adoption of right formula He added, “He’s a man who has schooled at home and abroad and for me, we are going to need a lot of that at this time. Nigeria has gone through so much in the past, so we need men who can hit the ground running. Not just politicians but people with extensive global view and appeal and I think Saraki has all that”. A leading newspaper, Daily Independent on Tuesday, April 21, 2015 advised APC thus: “The All Progressives Congress (APC) may have emerged tops in the just concluded general elections, but it is certainly not yet uhuru for the party as it looks locked in the process of adopting the right formula for zoning key federal legislative and executive positions. With the May 29 handover still about five weeks shy, there are already indications that the party is having some difficulty deciding who gets what as far as the leadership of the National Assembly and executive positions are concerned…”

That sums it all up. The Senate must move forward always and like the famous quote said “ the answer will not help anyone who does not know the question” the eighth Nigerian Senate deserves first class leadership that will not only complement the in-coming GMB Government but will be ready with right answers to our legislative questions and challenges.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, MAY 5, 2015—41

O. P. Edodo (1925 - 2015)

Naana Esi Newman-De Souza passes on

By Vanessa De Souza

M

OTHER, Writer, T.V. Presenter, Radio Presenter and one time model Naana DeSouza, passed on peacefully, at Korle Bu Teaching Hospital in Accra, Ghana, after battling cancer for six years, on Monday, April 20, 2015.

Naana started her career in modelling in London and joined Punch newspapers in the very late 70s and worked under Chief Sam Amuka and Chief Olu Aboderin. Whilst there she organised the first ever international fashion show in Lagos, that included international catwalk models from Europe. She remained at Punch until and a little after the sad demise of Chief Olu Aboderin.

She went on to host her own television chat show on NTA and Silverbird TV, was a prolific writer of articles on a various topics of the day and had regular columns in magazines and newspapers such as City People. She also appeared on Channels TV and on radio shows. She worked with Ben Murray-Bruce on Most Beautiful Girl in Nigeria beauty contests for several years and organised the same in Ghana. She also organised and hosted fashion shows in Accra and was the first to include designers from Europe

O. P. Edodo

TRIBUTE

By Ben Etaghene IGERIANS are superlative people in the area of consolatory (condolence) messages. Daily, in the newspapers we read what started merely as immemoriams but today has metamorphosed into “Transition, Celebration of life, et al. Others “may God grant the bereaved the fortitude to bear the loss; to live in the hearts of those who love you is not to die.” The realities of these aphorisms played out for late Chief Oritsegbiten Popo Edodo, aged 89 last week as evidenced during the in-laws’ greetings on April 18, 2015 after the burial rites the previous day at his 1, Emaye Road, G.R.A Warri.

That was after the requiem at the Sacred Heart Cathederal Warri in obedience to his wish as a devout catholic. My nephew, Mr. William Oteheri Emore handed me a copy of the burial brochure.

Each time I went through it, I could feel the thrill of living and dying in the various photographs and tributes by his children, grand children, inlaws, et al. They were true love and real passion personified with: First the picture of the patriarch of the Edodo family boldly printed on the table water, then other expressions like; “a precious star has fallen; the most wonderful father; an icon is gone; a father-in-law in a million; the gift God

N

•Naana De Souza and other parts of Africa. These were no mean feats given the difficult airline connections, but her power of persuasion and sheer energy made it possible.

She was always full of energy and made the time to serve on the Board of Atlantic Hall School.

She was also involved with Sickle Cell Club of Nigeria and Little Saints Orphanage. She was a tireless organiser for good causes.

She was married to Magnus De Souza and had four children to whom she was thoroughly devoted. She is to be buried in her ancestral home town of Takoradi, Ghana in June with a Memorial Service in Lagos shortly after.

Yes in joy you shall depart, in peace you shall be brought back, mountains and hills shall break out in songs before you, and all the trees of the countryside shall clap their hands— Isaiah 55:12

B

LESSED with six surviving beautiful children, four females and two boys and all successfully married and engaged, my dear sister, my only sister and only female in our family of four, Lady Bridget Nwaozomudoh nee Fejokwu departed this sinful world on April 1, 2015. She had been married to Mr. Linus Nwaozomudoh since 1969, a retired Commissioner of Police, who lives in Asaba, Delta State, where she died.

Lady Bridget as she was fondly called, was born into the family of late George Ogana and Cathrine Nkwo Fejokwu of Onicha-Ugbo, in Aniocha North Local Government Area, Delta State. She was born in Enugu, where our parents then lived and worked in 1947. She grew up a very beautiful confident young girl. She relocated to Onicha-Ugbo, then Midwestern State when hostilities broke out in 1966 and later enrolled in Sacred Heart College, Ubiaja, she completed her Teacher Training at Pilgrim Baptist, IsseleUku, in 1969.

During the Civil War, 1968-69 her elder brothers, Benedict Fejokwu and Lawrence Fejokwu were in Biafra. Bridget married a young and responsible Police Officer, Mr. Linus Nwaozomudoh. As a young girl, Bridget was reputed to be very courageous, fearless and endowed with a virtuous and dynamic, but no nonsense spirit, exemplified in promoting justice and truth. She traversed Nigeria with her

*Lady Bridget Nwaozomudoh

husband. They lived and worked in Calabar, Oshogbo, Benin, Jos from where he retired as a Commissioner of Police.

While in service, Mr. Linus Nwaozomudoh had completed a Law degree at the University of Calabar and later attended Law School. They settled in Asaba where Sir Linus established a Law office and Lady Bridget taught for several years in various secondary schools.

She also completed her degree programme in Education at the Nmandi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State.

She later successfully completed a Masters degree from the same University, NAU, Awka. She was in various professions in Nigeria and one in USA. Lady Bridget was a very vibrant woman, an extrovert and founded many social organisations. As President of OnichaUgbo August Ladies, Asaba, she initiated the development of the Hall at the All Saints Catholic Church, Onicha-Ugbo in the late 90s. As a mobiliser, socialite and

Enormous blessings

As the popular saying goes: “the morning shows the day” because how a small boy from Bateren in Warri South West Local Government Area, Delta State, but then resident at Siloko in Ovia Local government Area, Edo State attending St. Thomas School; could rise to become the senior prefect (headboy) 1945 of such a prestigious school was an early omen in his life of the enormous blessings God would shower on him.

His working life started in Lagos as he secured a job as a produce inspector in the then Western Region of Nigeria in the ministry of agriculture. The job took him to many parts of the region, Benin City, Akologo, Ile-Ife, et al. His ambition activist, always in quest for truth and zoomed larger than that so he went to justice, Lady Bridget Nwaozomudoh, was the United Kingdom where he studied always organising for social justice for the law at Holborn College, University of Lord and enrichment of humanity for London. He enrolled in Lincoln’s Inn and socio-economic development. was called to the English Bar in 1962.

Her sudden departure sent shock waves Interestingly, one of his mates during his amongst friends and families in Nigeria call-to-bar was Chief Isaac Jemide. In fact, and USA. In mid 2014, she had a serious they were both called the same day. O.P heart related problem. As God so much Edodo never ceased to remind Jemide loved her, she miraculously recovered and he was senior because he was called was back on her feet and returned to her before him as alphabetically E naturally business. After retirement from service, comes before J. But Isaac Jemide had his she established a boutique at Asaba, to reverse side of the joke. He came back to keep busy.

Nigeria three days after the call to the Bar in London and enrolled at the Invitation to Supreme Court of Nigeria before him and April devotion was automatically senior to O.P Edodo at the Nigerian Bar. Lady Bridget was loved and admired “Chief O.P Edodo came back to Nigeria by many, young and old. But she was in 1963 and enrolled at the Nigeria also feared by many because of her no Supreme Court as a Barrister and Solicitor. nonsense posture. For us in the family, He was among the last set of Nigerian especially my maternal Egbe family, her lawyers who trained abroad who without sudden departure at under 70, raises a hindrance enrolled as lawyers at home grave concern. Why, why so soon under without going through the requirement 70. Our grand-mother, fondly called of the Nigerian Law School. He set up a DEDE, was reported to have lived and Legal practice in Warri with an eagle eye died at over 120 years. on politics. Not too long after he got On March 21, 2015, she participated elected into the Midwest House of actively in a family meeting at OnichaAssembly under the aegis of the Action Ugbo. I had also planned to invite her to Group (AG). His political star had started participate in the April devotion of the to shine. When the military intervened in monthly 2000 Hail Mary’s at the ALL politics, specifically with the evacuation SAINTS CATHOLIC CHURCH, Onichaof the Biafran rebels, then newly Ugbo. But on March 30, 2015, I received promoted Col Sammuel Ogbemudia a distress call from my younger brother, became the governor of the state which Emmanuel that she was in great arthritic later was rename Bendel State. O.P Edodo pain. She later spoke to me, assuring me was appointed one of the civil of our father’s righteousness, and affirmed commissioners. she would be healed. Like a thunderbolt, May his soul rest in peace. she suddenly flew away on April 1, 2015.

•Etaghene is the editorial director of The What a life!

Bulletin based in Sapele, Delta State

...And Lady Bridget Nwaozomudoh flies away

By Lawrence Fejokwu

gave me was you; it is hard to say goodbye; he was a great teacher; grand dad; I will miss your smile; he aged with grace; sleep on grand dad’ and much more.

These were the assemblages of inner feelings made manifest for a man who admitted a true satisfaction to God with a modest confession of “I can never thank God enough. I am fulfilled.”

In his eulogy, the governor of Delta State, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan on a condolence visit to the family said that the late Chief O.P Edodo had a formidable and admirable law partnership. He observed “his was based on trust and honesty and that he lived a life worthy of emulation.” This perception of honesty of Chief O.P Edodo became a pervasive description of him oozing around him like a super perfume. The Delta State governor further remarked “that the country will be better if Nigerians imbibe the spirit of honesty and life of trustworthy partnership in their actions we would be creating a better society. Deltans are proud to have had this legal icon.”

This is the world view of a small boy at the age 14 who was taken to Lagos by an aunt Alhaja Adebisi who after his primary education at St. Paul’s Catholic School, Ebute Melta, Lagos proceeded to St. Gregory’s College, Obalende, Lagos as Samuel Popo then.

42—Vanguard, TUESDAY, MAY 5, 2015

CONTEMPT: Agip, Plantgeria MDs to face committal proceedings M

By Abdulwahab Abdulah

ANAGING Directors of Nigerian Agip Oil Company Limited, NAOCL, Mr. Insula Massimo and P. L. Carrodano of Plantgeria Company Ltd., are to appear before a Federal High Court sitting in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, to explain why they should not be committed to prison for alleged disobedience to an order of the court.

The duo were alleged to have disobeyed an order of court barring them from awarding Gas Turbines and Rotating Equipment maintenance contract to any company pending the determination of the substantive suit by Arco Group Plc. In a Form 49, ‘notice to show cause why order of attachment should not be made,’ initiated by Arco Group against NAOCL, Plantgeria Company Ltd., and their Managing Directors, respectively, the plaintiff is urging the court to commit the companies and their chief executive officers to prison for alleged disobedience to the order of court.

Arco, which had earlier filed Form 48 'notice, that unless the

Akpabio tells varsities to dump mundane theories

N

I G E R I A N Universities have been charged to change from dwelling on mundane theories, issues and curricula that lack ample connectivity with issues at hand and adopt workable mechanisms targeted at handling issues in society.

Governor Godswill Akpabio of Awka Ibom State gave the charge at the maiden convocation of the state University, Ikot Akpaden, Mkpat Enin Local Government Area.

He said: “The world is changing and our university system must change in line with current realities. Our universities must change from dwelling on mundane theories, issues and curricula that lack ample connectivity with issues at hand and adopt workable mechanisms targeted at handling issues in the society. This is what we expect from the Akwa State University and other higher institutions in the country."

order was obeyed by the defendants they could be committed to prison', had argued that the defendants have disregarded the order made by trial judge, Justice Lambo Akanbi, which restrained them from awarding the Turbines and Rotating Equipment maintenance contract to any company at Agip’s OB/OB, Ebocha and Kwale gas plants, pending the hearing and determination of the substantive suit.

Defendants in the main suit are NAOCL, Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, Conoco Phillips Petroleum Nig. Ltd, and National Petroleum Investment Management

Services, NPIMS. The plaintiff alleged a breach

by NAOCL in the award of the contract to Plantgeria Company Ltd., contrary to the order of court made on February 3, 2015.

Ruling earlier on the notice of consequences of disobedience to order of the court by Arco, the court ordered the MDs of NAOCL and Plantgeria to appear last week Monday, but they were absent, though represented by counsel.

At the hearing of the case last Monday, the defendants, who were not personally in court had, through their lawyers, argued that the court lacked the jurisdiction to entertain the

motion brought before it.

However, the plaintiff maintained that the order of court earlier made still subsists.

In an affidavit of facts showing disobedience by first defendant of the order of injunction made on February 3, 2015, deposed to by the plaintiff’s team leader in OB/ OB Kwale and Ebocha, Pius Onodjohwo, it averred that Agip in alleged defiance of the said court injunction restraining it from awarding contract to any organisation, pending the determination of plaintiffs motion on notice for interlocutory injunction the company went ahead to awarded the contract to Plantgeria Ltd.

Delta APC to appeal ruling dissolving state ex-co

T

HE All Progressives Congress, APC, Delta State chapter, has said it will appeal the ruling of Justice Nduka Obi dissolving the state APC executive.

In a statement by the Delta State APC Publicity Secretary, Prof. Isaac Adakpo, the party said while it was yet to receive a copy of the ruling, it had instructed its team of lawyers to immediately appeal the judgment as well as obtain a stay of execution of judgment Adakpo urged the party members and the general public to remain calm as it proceeds legally to set aside the judgment.

INEC presents certificates of return to Amori, Idisi others VISIT: From left: Akwa Ibom State deputy governor-elect, Moses Ekpo; governor-elect, Mr Udom Emmanuel; Pastor Lazarus Muoka, General Overseer of the Lord’s Chosen Charismatic Revival Church Worldwide and his wife, Joy, during a visit to the governorelect.

CLO wants Buhari to probe alleged wealth among officials of security agencies

By Samuel Oyadongha

Y

ENAGOA—THE Civil Liberties Organisation, CLO, in Bayelsa State, has challenged the president-elect, Gen. Muhammad Buhari, to fulfil his election promise on the fight against corrupt practices in every sector of the country.

The group urged the president-elect to immediately commence such campaign with a comprehensive investigation into alleged unexplained wealth of officials of the security agencies.

According to the CLO, though the performance of the military and the police during the security action against insurgency in the North East and the recent general elections have been commendable, there was need to investigate the unexplained wealth of some officials, adding that the stock taking on the utilization of fund allocated by the Federal Government for acquisition of arms and ammunition and the security action against Boko

Haram will enhance professionalism and check excesses of the security agencies under a civilian administration.

State Chairman of CLO, Chief Nengi James, in a statement in Yenagoa, after its

extra-ordinary meeting, said that the in-coming administration of Buhari, must, as a matter of urgency, commence the fight against systemic corruption within the existing security agencies of the country.

Burutu legislative arm returns 2015 budget to council boss

T

HE legislative arm of Burutu Local Government Council, Delta State, has returned the 2015 budget estimate of N5.2 billion to the executive for what it termed budget irregularities.

The chairman of the council, Mr Ebikeme Clark, had presented the 2015 budget proposal of N2.5 billion with breakdown for scrutiny and approval on April 21, 2015 at the legislative chamber.

The Finance and Appropriation Committee, after deliberation by its members and other principal officers, chaired by Mr. Churchill Botu, faulted the council executive arm for not only encapsulating 2015 fiscal year but also included 2016 and 2017 fiscal

years.

The committee also faulted the executive arm for not giving the House performance of the 2014 fiscal year as well as the inclusion of non-Burutu council communities in the 2015 budget presented to the House.

The Leader of the House, Mr. William Elagha, called an emergency sitting on April 28, 2015 to deliberate on the budget after the Finance and Appropriation committee had submitted its findings. Mr Frank Adokeme moved that the budget document be returned for the executive to correct anomalies noticed in the financial document.

It was seconded and adopted.

By Festus Ahon

A

SABA—THE Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, has presented certificates of return to the senator-elect representing Delta Central senatorial district, Chief Ighoyota Amori and the member-elect representing Ethiope federal constituency, Chief Lovett Idisi.

Also presented with certificates of return were three members-elect of Delta State House of Assembly, Chief Monday Igbuya, Sapele; Mr Tim Owhefere, Isoko North and Chief Michael Diden, Warri North.

Meanwhile, the state Resident Electoral Commissioner, REC, Elder Aniedi Ikoiwak, yesterday apologised to Chief Monday Igbuya for the embarrassment the commission caused him in not issuing him (Igbuya) his certificate of return last week alongside his colleagues.

Ikoiwak explained that the omission of Chief Igbuya’s certificate of return was not political, adding that his name was sent to Abuja alongside others.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, MAY 5, 2015— 43

CRAN honours AIG Mbu

3 parties reject bid to challenge Ikpeazu’s victory in Abia

C

RIME REPORTERS Association of Nigeria, CRAN, will today, honour the Assistant Inspector-General of Police in-charge of Zone 2, Onikan, Lagos, Mbu Joseph Mbu at Eko Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos. The event, which will kick off by 5.30p.m., will be under the distinguished chairmanship of His Royal Highness, King Apollos Chu, while the special guest of honour will be the Executive Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babatunde Raji Fashola.

A statement from the chairman of the association, Christopher Oji, said two other governors were expected to grace the occasion.

By Eric Ugbor

A

BA—IN the spirit of moving Abia State forward, governorship candidates of three political parties have dissociated themselves from challenging the outcome of Abia governorship poll in the tribunal.

The three candidates - Dan Onyeonagu of KOWA party; Mr. Gilbert Chikezie of the Independent Democrat, ID, and Mrs. Ijeoma Okpara of the Citizens Popular Party, CPP said in a statement they issued after an exhaustive meeting in Umuahia that they believed that Abia people spoke with one voice in electing Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu as the next governor

Ekwunife mourns Anambra NUJ scribe

By Enyim Enyim

O

NITSHA—SENATORelect for Anambra Central senatorial zone, Mrs. Uche Ekwunife, has expressed shock over the death of the Secretary of Anambra State council of Nigerian Union of Journalists, NUJ, Ifeoma Anumba.

Ekwunife in a statement by her Media Assistant, Uzor Emmanuel, described the death of the young lady as very devastating, especially in her prime when the country and entire humanity needed her services most.

She described the late NUJ scribe as a very diligent young lady that served with joy and always smiling, and she prayed to God to grant her eternal rest.

The statement read: “It is with

deep sense of sorrow and bewilderment that I commiserate with the family of Anumba of Nawfia and the entire members of the Nigerian Union of Journalists, NUJ, Anambra council over the death of their daughter and secretary, Lady Ifeoma Anumba."

of Abia State.

“Therefore, in the spirit of sportsmanship and putting Abia State above any personal ambition we accept that the elections were peaceful, free, fair and credible. We also accept the results as announced by INEC,” the parties declared.

The three governorship candidates congratulated the Abia governor-elect and other victorious candidates in the last general elections, arguing that they were supporting Dr. Ikpeazu based on the fact that “power comes from God.” They said, “it is not about an individual, it is about the state,” Dr. Ikpeazu, Abia gov-elect even as they tasked the asked the governorship governor–elect to remember his candidate of the All new status as the father of the Progressives Grand Alliance, state in sharing political APGA, Alex Otti, to toe the line positions, stressing that for Abia of his colleagues in the race by to witness rapid transformation accepting the outcome of the and development all of its poll as a sportsman, pointing citizens must be carried along. out that he (Otti) should emulate In his reaction to the President Goodluck Jonathan, announcement of the three who congratulated governorship candidates, Abia Muhammadu Buhari, when it State Commissioner for Works, was clear that Buhari had won Mr. Longman Emeka the presidential poll.

Nwachukwu, described the In the same vein, an aide to decision of the candidates not the Governor of Abia State, to prolong the Abia Uche Nwosu, and an Assistant governorship contest unduly as Director, Media in Abia PDP a wise one and a way of moving Campaign Organization 2015, the state forward. lauded the parties and their The Commissioner had earlier candidates for rejecting the

ignoble temptation to file a case against Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu at the tribunal.

He said the move would save the governor-elect unnecessary distractions and also afford him the singular opportunity of concentrating in fulfilling his electioneering campaign promises On how to move the state forward, Onyeonagu, Mr. Chikezie and Mrs. Okpara of KOWA, ID and CPP respectively asserted: “We wish to emphasize that Aba needs to be given serious attention against infrastructure development.

“We have implicit confidence that Okezie Ikpeazu will deliver the dividends of democracy to the people of Abia State. We also have confidence that he will govern Abia with the fear of God; without fear or favour, irrespective of religious or tribal affiliation.

“We once more thank all Abians for conducting themselves in an orderly manner throughout the exercise. We also commend INEC and the security agencies for ensuring orderliness during the electioneering campaigns.

“We urge all Abians to support and pray for him to succeed,” the statement opined.

Panic grips Anambra commissioners over imminent cabinet shake-up

By Enyim Enyim

O

NITSHA—PANIC has gripped commissioners in Anambra State over imminent major cabinet shake up by the state governor, Dr. Willie Obiano.

Already, the governor, last

week, presented six commissioner nominees, five of who had been confirmed by Anambra State House of Assembly.

Top on the list of the nominees was the incumbent Speaker of the House of Assembly, Princess Chinwe Nwebili.

Other nominees include Frank Ofor, Afam Mbanefo, Mark Okoye, Dr. Mary Nwogu and Mrs. Gladis Uzoamaka.

However, the House refused to confirm Mark Okoye on grounds that he was below 30 years which was contrary to the provision of the 1999 Constitution as

amended.

Following the lawmakers’ refusal to confirm Okoye, some members of the House who were favourably disposed to him, caused commotion in the House as they insisted that he should be confirmed along with others.

By Bartholomew Madukwe (08102479985) nwamad@yahoo.com

PEOPLE SPEAK

What would you say about the fuel scarcity?

O

bviously, it is the calculation of the fraudulent cabal in the fuel importation business that except they , strike and stop importation before the exit of the present administration, the Buhari government will not pay without due verification. Chief Morah Ekwunoh- Lawyer

M

y view on the fuel scarcity is that it is sad. Further occurrence should be discouraged.

Government should put structures in place that would also discourage importation of the commodity by the marketers. Mr Francis Nwachukwu- Journalist

T

o me, it is a deliberate activity of vexed oil marketers (importers) who have expressed their displeasure to the FG for failing to pay outstanding debts and also having a full knowledge of the removal of fuel subsidy from the current budget. Mr Obodaya Runo- Lawyer

T

he intermittent fuel scarcity saga has become a national embarrassment. It is a metaphor of the failed state Nigeria has become. It is most frustrating that nobody has taken responsibility for any aspect of this shame. Mr Chibuzo Asomugha- Lecturer

I

t is so painful and I am of the strong view that a few wicked, greedy, inconsiderate and selfserving individuals have decided to punish Nigerians for whatever cause. I bought 30ltrs yesterday for N10,500. So it is really painful. Mr Jude Igbanoi- Journalist

I

mportation is not in the interest of the nation. Let us get back to local production and refining. Four refineries should fend for Nigeria. If the old refineries are obsolete, new efficient ones should be built to stop squandering of the fortunes of Nigeria. Dr. Onyeka Uwakwe- Lecturer

44 — Vanguard, TUESDAY, MAY 5, 2015

Zamfara Election Petition tribunal orders inspection of election materials

By Salisu Maradun

G

USAU—THE governorship election tribunal sitting in Gusau, capital of Zamfara State has ordered the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, to allow the All Progressive Grand Alliance, APGA, in the state to inspect all the election materials used for the conduct of the Apri 11, governorship election in the state.

The Chairman of the Tribunal, Justice Grace Onyeabo, gave the order following a petition filed by the APGA gubernatorial candidate in the state, Alhaji Sani Abdullahi Shinkafi, challenging the legitimacy of the election that saw Alhaji Abdulaziz Yari of the APC as a winner.

Sani’s Counsel, Pwahonda Lasco, had asked the tribunal to order INEC allow his client inspect all the materials used during the election in the state.

Justice Onyeabo also directed that the inspection by the applicant be conducted in the presence of relevant security agencies including the Department of the State Services, DSS, to ensure peace and order during the exercise.

Also to be present during the inspection is the first respondent or his representative.

Benue APC knocks Suswam-led govt zSays out-going admin jittery

By Peter Duru

M

AKURDI—THE All Progressives Congress, APC, in Benue State, has accused the outgoing Governor Gabriel Suswam-led administration of allegedly employing both blackmail and subterranean moves to curry the favour of the incoming government.

The party was reacting to a statement credited to the state Commissioner of Information

ADUNA—MALAM Shehu Sani, a Senator-elect under the All Progressives Congress, APC, said weekend that the next Senate President must emerge from a free and fair process devoid of any sectional interest.

Sani, in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria, NAN, in Kaduna decried the acrimony generated by those contesting for the position under the APC, saying it was not in the best interest of the party.

“The new Senate President must emerge from a process that is free from ethnic, religious or sectional sentiments.

“The senate president must reflect

incoming government.”

Tyuulugh further advised that as a government at its terminal point, “the PDP will certainly have issues with every action of the APC. They should however accept the fact that the people want change; have voted for change and that APC is eager to provide that change.”

Openshopen bags e-Commerce platform of the year award

C

FIDAU PRAYER: From left; Kaduna State governor-elect, Malam Nasir el-Rufai; National Chairman, Anwarfaidot Society of Nigeria, Arc. Abdulrazak Kalejaiye and the Deputy President, Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) Comrade Issa Aremu at the 7th fidau prayer for the late Chief Imam Daniyatu Abiodun Shitta-Bey in Kaduna on Sunday. Photo by Olu Ajayi.

Niger govt to spend N634.5m as WAEC, NECO registration fees for 34,957 students

By Wole Mosadomi

M

INNA—THE Niger State government is to

‘Next Senate President must emerge from a free, fair process'

K

and Orientation, Mr. Justin Amase, which alleged that the APC governor-elect, Dr. Samuel Ortom, was carrying on as if he was already the substantive governor of the state.

In a statement weekend in Makurdi, the state Secretary of the APC, Mr. Onov Tyuulugh, said that they were not interested in Suswam’s so-called olive branch and overtures.

According to him, “democratic power proceeds from the mandate of the people and the Suswam’s

government should stop making us feel apologetic for receiving an overwhelming mandate from the people.

“We all know that the outgoing government is only being jittery and afraid of an impending termination of its tenure but it will be foolhardy for them to take any actions that will encroach into the tenure of another government.

“They should stop frustrating the process, as democratic transition will take place, whether they co-operate or not, but they must also know that it is in their interest to cooperate with the

the spirit and emerging order, and must follow through the programmes and manifestoes of the APC,” Sani said.

He advised those campaigning for the position to allow the APC to make a formal announcement as to where the position had been zoned to.

Sani was particularly unhappy with those “currently engaged in name-dropping”, in their desperation for the position.

The civil rights activist, who will represent Kaduna Central at the Senate, said he would not endorse any of the aspirants, if the party had not done so.

spend N634.5 million on the payment of WAEC or NECO registration fees for 34,957 candidates in various public schools in the state.

Addressing newsmen in Minna after the state Executive Council meeting, the state Commissioner of Education, Alhaji Danladi Abduhamid said the free education policy of the state government in the past seven years included the payment of WAEC/ NECO fees, as well as the provision of school uniforms to the girl-child in the state.

Abduhamid explained that the state government will only bankroll the examination fees for only one examination body of the students’ choice while parents had the option of paying for their second choice.

He said that from the statistics available, N1,034,043, 962 would be jointly paid to the two examination bodies by the government and parents.

The also said that the government drew over N4 billion

between 2007 and 2012 from the Universal Basic Commission fund adding that the administration also took steps to access the 2015 fund so that it will be in position to complete all projects started under the scheme.

According to him, the government was in partnering with the Youth Empowerment Education Initiative a Non Governmental Organization, NGO, for the training of 7,700 teachers who would be provided with computers to facilitate their jobs.

The government would however, pay 40 percent of the cost of the computers (Ipads) while the teachers would pay the remaining 60 percent.

Abduhamid described the free education policy as an expensive but worthwhile venture in the last seven years and called on the incoming All Progressives Congress, APC, to continue with the laudable project for the progress of the state.

OMPUTER Warehouse Group Plc’s ecommerce platform, Openshopen.ng, has been named the ecommerce platform of the year at the Beacon of Information and Communication Technology (BOICT) awards ceremony held in Lagos, recently.

Openshopen.ng won the award after having the highest number of votes in the said category following an online poll that featured over two hundred thousand entries via email and on the awards electronic voting portal.

Speaking on the credibility of the process, the Chairman of the event and Chief Executive Officer, Zinox Technologies limited, Chief Leo Stan Ekeh observed “I know that those that won the awards tonight deserved them because I can confidently say that the publisher, whom I know very well, is a man of integrity and he will give you what you deserve.”

Presenting the award, Mr. Chris Uwaje, former President of the Institute of Software Practitioners of Nigeria (ISPON), observed that CWG Plc is known for rolling out IT solutions that are remarkable for standard, customer satisfaction and reliability. “Once again, CWG, with Openshopen has shown us that indigenous IT firms have the capacity to provide the needed back-up for our growing economy”, he added.

Speaking on the significance of the award, Mr. Austin Okere, the Founder and Chief Executive Officer, CWG Plc, said “Winning the award of the e-commerce platform of the year in just less than one year of introducing our solution to the Nigerian market speaks volume of the unique value Openshopen offers to SMEs and how they appreciate it.

“Our e-commerce platform has the capacity to support over 100 million stores. It offers businesses the advantage of building and promoting their own brands rather than just dumping their goods and their fates in the hands of third parties, whose brands they are invariably promoting. By displaying their goods online, entrepreneurs significantly increase their sales, thereby creating jobs and ensuring inclusive growth for the economy”, he pointed out.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, MAY 5, 2015—45

FASHOLA'S 8TH YEAR: From left— Mr. Oluseye Oladejo, Special Adviser to the Governor on Commerce & Industry; Mrs. Abimbola Umar, Permanent Secretary; Mrs. Olusola Oworu, Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, and Mr. Lateef Raji, Special Adviser on Information & Strategy, during a briefing on the 8th year of Governor Babatunde Fashola's adminstration in Lagos State, at Ikeja, Lagos.

ACCREDITATION: From left— Professor Woke Atoyebi, Registrar, National Postgraduate Medical College; Governor Olusegun Mimiko of Ondo State; Dr. Dayo Adeyanju, HOD, Faculty of Obstetrics and Gynaecolgy of the College, and Commissioner for Health, during a visit by the accreditation team of the college to the Governor's Office in Akure.

HONOUR:

TRAINING FOR ELECTED : From left— House of Representatives members-elect, Mr. Mutiu Shadimu, Oshodi/Isolo Federal Constituency 1; Mr. Oghene Egoh, Amuwo Odofin Federal Constituency; Mr. Tajudeen Obasa, Ojo Federal Constituency, and Mr. Olatunji Shoyinka, Surulere Federal Constituency 2, at their induction training in Abuja.

VISIT: From left— Ebun Bolodeoku, Head, Special Projects & Corporate Communications, Honeywell Group; Ibi Ikpoki, Economic Officer, EU Delegation to Nigeria; Ambassador Michel Arrion, Head of EU Delegation to Nigeria & ECOWAS; Dr. Oba Otudeko, Chairman, Honeywell Group and Filippo Amato, Head of Trade & Economics Section, EU Delegation to Nigeria & ECOWAS, when the ambassador led his team on a business visit to Honeywell’s office in Lagos.

ENTERTAINMENT CONFAB: From left—

DJ Jimmy Jatt; Mo Abudu, Founder, Ebonylive TV; Mark Redguard, Ceo 960 Music; Buki Sawyerr, radio personality, at the panel discussion during Nigerian Entertainment Conference Live 3 in Lagos. PHOTO: Kehinde Gbadamosi.

C M Y K

Mr. Ekure Shedrack, Editor-in Chief, Unity Train Magazine (right) presenting a certificate of honour to Chief Edwin Uzor, Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Chairman, Delta State, as Ambassador of Peace. PHOTO: Nath Onojake.

MTN BEST 11: From left— Mr. Richard Iweanoge, General Manager, Consumer Marketing, MTN; Mr. Fidelis Ajibogun, Assistant Director, Zonal Coordinator, Nigerian Lottery Regulatory Commission, NLRC; Bayo Adekanbi, Chief Marting Officer, MTN, and Mr. Sunny McDon, Nollywood produor/director, during the presentation of prizes to winners in MTN Best 11 Promo. PHOTO: Diran Oshe.

ICSAN INDUCTION: From left— Dr. Nat Ofo, Vice President; Dr. Suleyman Ndanusa, President/ Chairman of Council, both of Institute of Chartered Secretaries & Administrators of Nigeria, ICSAN and Ms Bennedikter Molokwu, Special Guest of Honour at the 14th induction of the institute in Lagos, yesterday. PHOTO: Biodun Ogunleye.

46—Vanguard, TUESDAY, MAY 5, 2015

NAFDAC and vigilance in drug administration

By Martins Ikhilae

V

Pregnancy rights victory for women

F

ROM the outside, you would think that when it comes to all sorts of basic human rights, the United States has it all covered. But, that is not the case.

From time to time, some issues arise in the country to expose the underbelly of a country that globally crusades for human rights, but at home has a number of human rights issues which leave you with mouth agape and hands akimbo.

Last week, the U.S. Supreme Court gave a ruling that brought to the fore the issue of basic human rights for women; a right that it taken for granted in almost all developing, not to talk of developed, nations of the world.

Put simply, it is the commonsensical issue of pregnant women officially being given lighter duties, especially in jobs that require employees lifting weights or loads in the production process.

If I’ve made it appear that the Supreme Court has definitively ruled that pregnant women be given such lighter duties in their offices, well, that is not the case.

The court merely ruled that a pregnant woman who was aggrieved that she was not allowed to do such lighter jobs can go ahead and sue her employer for discrimination on account of her pregnancy status.

Pregnancy status So, the issue is far from being settled. But, the Supreme Court has set the ball in motion. Here is the story. Peggy Young used to work for UPS, the packaging and delivery company, as a driver. In 2006, she sued UPS for discrimination based on her pregnancy and in contravention of the Americans with Disability Act, when the company refused to exclude her from lifting weights as part of her job. Young has asked to be excluded because her doctor had warned her against lifting any weight beyond 20 pounds in the first 20 weeks of her pregnancy. Her claim was based on temporary disability due to her condition. But, her supervisors rejected her request, essentially claiming that pregnancy did not have any place in the Americans with Disability Act (ADA).

Ms.Young took her case to court but could not manage to convince the judge that her case had merit under the ADA. Eventually, the case wound up at the Supreme Court which sent the litigation back to the lower court for adjudication, an indirect acknowledgment that Young did not get justice in the judicial

process. The ruling was 6-3 in her favor. Writing the majority opinion for five judges (the other one concurred), Justice Stephen Breyer said the case can “create a genuine issue of material fact as to whether a significant burden exists by providing evidence that the employer accommodates a large percentage of nonpregnant workers while failing to accommodate a large percentage of pregnant workers.”

Putting legalisms aside, Justice Breyer asked a simple question in his majority opinion: “Why, when the employer accommodated so many (people with disability), could it not accommodate pregnant women as well?” The implication is that pregnant women should be accommodated under the ADA in their various workplaces.

All along UPS had argued that its decision on Young did not contravene the provisions of the ADA. Even after the Supreme Court ruling, UPS Public Relations director, Susan Rosenberg, declared that the judgement was not an indictment on her company because the court did not uphold Young’s argument that UPS’ workplace policy was “inherently discriminatory.” She predicted that at the end of the day, “the courts will find that UPS did not discriminate against Ms. Young.”

But, Ms. Young’s attorney, Samuel Bagenstos, declared that the ruling was “big win not just for Peggy Young, but also for all women in the workplace.” He contended that “the Court made clear that employers may not accommodate pregnant workers based on considerations of cost or convenience when they accommodate other workers. It’s a big step forward towards enforcing the principle that a

It’s a big step forward towards enforcing the principle that a woman shouldn’t have to choose between her pregnancy and her job

woman shouldn’t have to choose between her pregnancy and her job.”

That choice, is what this ruling boils down to in reality. Pregnant women go through a lot in the system. Until President Obama signed the Obamacare act into law, pregnancy was a ground for an insurance company to deny insuring a woman, or hike up her premium beyond tolerable limits.

The insurance companies had classified pregnancy as a “preexisting condition” in the group that has cancer, diabetes and so on.

Here is another interesting twist to the fate of pregnant women in the workforce. Prior to 1993, women practically had to choose between having their babies and losing their jobs, and facing the unpleasant situation of giving birth and getting back to work in a matter of days, not weeks.

President Bill Clinton’s administration changed that unpleasantness and inhuman approach to the human issue of having a baby when he signed into law the Family and Medical Leave Act of 1993.

Medical related issues That law protected jobs in the case of someone taking a leave to attend to family and medical related issues. Any person who found himself or herself in a situation of needing such leave could do so for up to twelve weeks, without the added agony of losing a job. But, trust the capitalist nature of the American economy, that leave period is without pay.

In his 2015 State of the Union address, President Obama revisited this issue of pregnant women earning deserved leave when he boldly told his compatriots that “Today, we’re the only advanced country on Earth that doesn’t guarantee paid sick leave or paid maternity leave to our workers.” His audience of largely U.S. Congressmen and Women applauded his remarks.

But, the issue has since returned to its back shelf position. Perhaps, the outcome of Ms. Young’s court action will fire up things once more. In fairness the UPS, while it still maintains that it did not discriminate against Young, it has since been practicing what compelled Young to file her suit in the first place.

Final note: two of the three Supreme Court Justices who dissented from the majority opinion on Young’s case are wellknown members of the conservative wing of the court.

They are Justices Antonin Scalia and Clarence Thomas.

IGILANCE as a virtue or progressive act is applicable in every facet of human involvement. As a progressive tool, its implementation is craved globally. Broadly examined, vigilance embraces practices like carefulness, mental alertness, consciousness to mention but a few. It is in recognition of the effectiveness of this psychological tool that the National Agency for Food, Drug Administration and Control, NAFDAC, decided to adopt it as a tool to combat counterfeiting and faking of pharmaceuticals.

Although the existence of herbs, medicinal plants and other materials is as old as creation, the western scientific wherewithal to explore, source, identify and modernize them for maximum public acceptance and utilization were yet to be acquired. However, it was in view of the loss of lives to varieties of diseases and sicknesses over the years, that prompted western medical scientists and health experts to embark on human health salvaging expeditions.

Expectedly, these dogged scientific efforts yielded bountiful good health preserving, boosting and sustaining dividends which has today brought confidence into healthcare services. Today, curative and preventive health care services are made readily available by stakeholders in the sector owing to the availability of professionally and competently refined pharmaceuticals suitable for this purpose.

Aside great efforts made by government to guarantee unhindered availability and access to essential, safe and effective medicines, Nigeria has concretized an enduring pharmaceutical framework to unify and harmonise interactions, inputs and operations of stakeholders in the nation’s health sector so as to bring about a more effective, efficient and efficacious use of medicines nationwide.

Efficacious use of medicines NAFDAC, a regulator in the sector, is saddled with the responsibility of actualizing the historic concept which entails promoting vigilance in pharmaceutical products consumption and administration.

NAFDAC director general, Dr Paul Orhii has evolved a dynamic and professionally seasoned arm to contend with the anticipated challenges. He has set up the pharmacovigilance unit/ directorate, with a mandate to identify non-efficacious outcome of drug application in the treatment of ailments, abuse of medicines as well as other negative consequences. This means that should a drug be administered on a patient for the eradication or treatment of a particular ailment, the agency would observe medication errors, inability to cure as well as other negative developments that may

have arisen from the usage of that product as such information will help to rectify identified product lapses,combat counterfeiting and faking,standardize healthcare delivery services etc.

However, since NAFDAC performs basically a regulatory function, it certainly requires the collaboration and support of players and stakeholders in the sector to achieve the desired success.

Interestingly, advocacy visits are regularly made by the management to relevant stakeholders in the sector to garner the needed support for the success of this healthcare boosting policy. NAFDAC is conscious of the enormous benefits derivable from successfully harnessing this end users potentials for the purpose of attaining sanity in healthcare provision. This entails collation of inputs, comments or information from both users and administrators of pharmaceutical products through the provision of reports about reaction of drugs used by patients for the treatment of ailments.

Treatment of ailments It is also termed ‘adverse report’ to NAFDAC through specified channels. It is in an attempt to entrench the culture of vigilance in pharmaceuticals composition, application and administration that NAFDAC accommodates a strategic and operationally unique department referred to as the pharmacovigilance directorate whose responsibility is to receive, collate and channel to the respective authorities information on effect of medicinal products administered on ailing persons.

The agency ’s pharmacovigilance directorate is saddled with the coordination of pharmacovigilance activities nationwide, establishment and maintenance of a functional national database on adverse drug reactions and other medicine related problems, receive, document, follow-up, analyse and evaluate individual case safety reports, ICSR, for completeness, technical correctness and validity.

Interestingly, series of vigorous efforts have been made by NAFDAC to accord this unique pharmaceutical policy a household status.

Among such is the incessant convocation of national stakeholders fora on pharmacovigilance in a bid to evolve sustainable platforms for stakeholders engagement. *Ikhilae is a Lagos based Public Affairs Analyst

Vanguard, TUESDAY, MAY 5, 2015—47

48—Vanguard, TUESDAY, MAY 5, 2015

Vanguard, TUESDAY, MAY 5, 2015—49

SUBSIDY DEBT: FG, marketers fail to give specific amount zScarcity continues despite assurances by marketers, tanker drivers

By Emma Ujah, Abuja Bureau Chief & Michael Eboh

By Boluwaji Obahopo

A

BUJA —THE Federal Government and major oil marketers, yesterday, declined to give a specific amount as the outstanding debt owed fuel marketers in subsidy payments.

The two parties, however, said the payments had been reconciled, with marketers announcing their resolve to immediately ensure smooth fuel distribution throughout the country.

Emerging from a meeting between the marketers and government agencies in Abuja, yesterday, the Coordinating Minister for the Economy and Minister of Finance, Dr. Ngozi OkonjoIweala, and Mr. Femi Olawore, who spoke for the marketers, said the matter had been amicably resolved.

The minister said the reconciled figure indicated that what was recently paid to marketers was N154 billion and not N156 billion.

According to her, “it is a rolling business and even as we speak, claims are being presented to the Petroleum Products Pricing Regulatory Agency, PPPRA, and the Executive Secretary is clearing and signing some.

Therefore, it is difficult to give a specific figure as the outstanding debt.

“As the marketers continue to supply products to Nigerians, we will continue to pay. This is a process that is continuous.”

The minister said rather than insisting on the figure of the debt, what Nigerians should note was the significant reduction in subsidy from N2.3 trillion in 2011 to N971 billion last year.

She said about N500 billion had been paid to marketers this year, including the N154 that had just been paid.

Calculating debt

Responding to questions, Olawore said the basis of calculating the debt by the marketers was different from that of the Federal Government which made it impossible to arrive at the same figure.

His words: “It depends on the figure that the PPPRA has sent to the DMO (Debt management Office) and the DMO has scrutnised and sent to the CME (Coordinating Minister for the Economy). As the person that is doing the C M Y K

APC'll win Kogi gov election —Ocheje

L

VISIT: From left: Minister of Education, Mallam Ibrahim Shakarau; Governor Olusegun Mimiko of Ondo State; Deputy Governor, Alhaji Lasisi Oluboyo and Rector, Federal Polytechnic, Ile-Oluji, Prof. Emmanuel Fasakin, during a visit by the minister to the governor’s office, in Akure, ahead of his inaugural visit to the Federal Polytechnic, Ile-Oluji, yesterday. supply (of fuel), I do it to the last day but my documents might not even have passed the point of processing. That is why there is that disparity.

“This is a process that is continuing. At some point, there will be an agreement to say, for today, we pay you ‘X’.

When you get ‘X’, it could even eat into the N200 billion and then there are more jobs done and then it continues like that. “ Oil marketers had said earlier that they were being owed about N200 billion in unpaid subsidy by the Federal Government, a figure that was disputed by Okonjo-Iweala, which brought about the reconciliation meeting.

Scarcity continues despite assurances by marketers, tanker drivers

Meanwhile, the fuel crisis in Abuja continued, yesterday, with long queues at almost all the petrol stations while motorists spent several hours trying to purchase the commodity.

This was in spite of assurances by oil marketers, Petroleum Tanker Drivers (PTD) and National Association of Road Transport Owners, NARTO, of improved fuel supply across the country.

This followed the resolution of their disagreement and the payment of N156 billion by the Federal Government to marketers for outstanding subsidy claims.

Unlike the situation last week, where 95 per cent of the

petrol stations in the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, were without petrol to sell, most of the petrol stations were selling, yesterday, but were besieged by motorists.

In some of the petrol stations, like the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) mega station in the Central Area, the queues stretched to as far as two kilometres, blocking major roads and causing gridlock in some of the areas.

Along the Airport Road, Asokoro, Lugbe, Kubwa and Gwarinpa only a few petrol stations were selling, while others were shut, claiming they have run out of the commodity.

The three petrol stations at Dutse, along the Kubwa Expressway, were shut, while large number of motorists was seen trying to buy the product at the NNPC filling stations located miles apart on both stretch of the Kubwa Expressway.

Oando petrol stations at Wuse Zone One and Zone Four were selling, same also for NNPC petrol station at Wuse 2.

Black marketers have field day

Black marketers continue to have a field day, as there were seen in strategic locations across the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, selling fuel to motorists at between N200 and N250 per litre.

At Mabushi, Kado, Dutse, Gwarinpa, Central Area and Wuse among others, the black

marketers were making brisk business.

Stations hike pump price

Also, a number of petrol stations hiked their pump price, selling at between N110 and N130 per litre.

Specifically, Vanguard observed that the NNPC filling station in Nyanya, Abuja was selling at N110 per litre, while the NNPC filling station at Zuba was selling for N135 per litre.

Almost, all the petrol stations at Byashin in Bwari Area Council, Abuja were selling at between N120 and N140 per litre along with petrol stations at Suleja and Abuja-Kaduna Expressway.

The NNPC had a couple of days ago, attributed the recent scarcity to the strike embarked upon by the members of National Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO) and the Petroleum Tanker Drivers (PTD) over their disagreements with major oil marketers.

However, a few days ago, Comrade Atunda Adebayo, Public Relations Officer, PTD Branch of the Nigerian Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers, NUPENG, said his members had started lifting products to ease the hardship occasioned by fuel scarcity, He promised that the effect of the movement of products across the country will be felt from this week, adding that there are vessels laden with petroleum products at the high sea waiting to berth in the country.

OKOJA —A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Alhaji Ibrahim Linco Ocheje, has predicted a resounding victory for the party in the forthcoming governorship election in the state.

Ocheje said his prediction was hinged on the result of the Presidential /National Assembly elections which the APC won as well as the recent state House of Assembly election in which the party produced 11 out of the 25 seats.

“I told you earlier that APC has come to stay but PDP leaders said their party would bounce back.

The word bounce back means that they had gone out and they just want to come in. But with the last election, was there anything like bouncing back?”

Ocheje further said the area APC won election was more than two- thirds of the state population, adding that it was enough signal that the party would win the governorship election.

He said: “APC won Ankpa 1 and 2, Dekina 1 and 2, Okene, Lokoja/ Koto, Olamaboro, Ofu and Ajaokuta. Can we compare the voters in Ofu with Yagba West and East put together?

"In Mopamoro, how many votes are there?

And Ogori/Magongo has a local government with one House of Assembly member but Wada’s election recorded 3,000 voters in the entire local government.”

Ocheja also claimed that the state Governor, Capt. Idris Wada, did not understand the political terrain well even as he was surrounded by too many fake politicians.

He said: “The result shows that the people he is working with are not in touch with the yearning of the people.

Last time, I advised him to join the APC before it was too late."

50—Vanguard, TUESDAY, MAY 5, 2015

Uduaghan charges judges on integrity G

ceremony of his duties.

OVERNOR Emmanuel to seniority, personal integrity, today ’s Responding, Umukoro this Uduaghan of Delta wealth of experience and demonstrates State, yesterday, urged judges proven record of performance. administration’s commitment thanked the governor for the “I am convinced that this to quick dispensation of appointment and assured the and other public officers to people of the state of his make integrity their appointment will enrich the justice.”

Uduaghan then commitment to discharge his watchword in the discharge of Judiciary in the state and ensure smooth transition from congratulated the acting chief duties without fear or favour. their duties.

He called for the support of judge on his appointment and The governor gave the one chief judge to another.

“The independence of the urged him not to be influenced judges and other stakeholders charge in Asaba at the swearing in of Justice Marshal judiciary remains sacrosanct but rather, be guided by the to move the judiciary arm of Umukoro as acting Chief and will be protected and principle of fairness, honesty the government forward in the respected at all times and and integrity in the discharge state.

Judge of the state.

Umukoro assumed office following the retirement of the former CJ, Justice Abiodun Smith.

Smith was also honoured at a valedictory ceremony on Monday in Asaba.

Uduaghan said integrity and commitment to duty should not be sacrificed as their positions were for the benefit of humanity.

He added: “Let me appeal to all judges, indeed, all public officers to always demonstrate commitment, loyalty, integrity and support in the discharge of their responsibilities.

“It is mainly in this way that we can leave a legacy of selfless service in the sands of time.”

The governor also said that the appointment of the acting Chief Judge followed due SWEARING-IN: Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan of Delta State (left) congratulating Justice process, noting that “in considering this appointment, Marshal Mukoro shortly after swearing him in as the acting Chief Judge of Delta State, at due consideration was given Government House, Asaba, yesterday.

Election of Senate President internal affairs of Senate —SENATOR-ELECT

By Gabriel Enogholase

B

ENIN—SENATOR-elect for Edo North senatorial zone, Mr. Francis Alimikhena, has said that the decision of the Senate to elect one of its ranking members as Senate President was its internal affairs put in place to ensure peace and stability.

He appealed to newly elected senators to abide by the rules as they were not meant to victimize anybody or section of the country.

Speaking with journalists at the end of an induction course organised for newly elected National Assembly members, he insisted that there was no constitutional provision on how the leadership of the National Assembly should be elected and sued for calm among the senators.

He said: “The Nigerian Constitution did not speak in specific terms as per the headship of the National Assembly and in terms of ranking members and the Senate presidency. The power to determine the presidency of the Senate is an internal rule that was put in place by the

senators themselves.

“This has today become an internal house rule and guidelines as specifically stated in the Nigeria Constitution that the Senate has the power to put in place its own governing rules and regulations. These rules were not put in place to

victimize any section or zone of the nation but as an order of operation.

“If you are not a ranking member today, you can become a ranking member tomorrow. We must learn to abide by the rules and play the game according to laid down

procedures.”

However, he argued that in a situation where the ranking member was from the same zone as the president of the country, then the ordinary interpretation of the Constitution will apply or the doctrine of necessity will come into play.

Our govt delivered more than we promised —DELTA SSG

By Festus Ahon

A

SABA—SECRETARY to the Delta State Government, SSG, Mr Ovuozorie Macaulay, has said that Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan delivered more than what he promised Deltans in his eight years administering the state.

Macaulay, while fielding questions from newsmen in Asaba, said: “Uduaghan’s three-point agenda of human capital development, infrastructure and peace and

security, has touched every Deltan and his name cannot be erased from the minds of the people.

“The Uduaghan administration was able to touch all the areas that mattered most to the people.

In the education sector, health, infrastructure, security, peace and human capital development, among others, the Uduaghan administration will indeed be remembered as one government that tried more than enough.

“First, he is the first governor

to initiate and complete an airport in less than six years. I used the word under six years because by the time it was four years, the airport had been put to use but everything put together, we can say in less than six years the airport was fully established. But you may say that is for the elites.

“He is one governor who appreciates the challenges of the ordinary people and so was able to initiate and sustain free maternal healthcare."

OYERINDE: NLC, civil society groups hold memorial meeting in Benin

By Simon Ebegbulem

B

E N I N — MEMBERS of Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, human rights community, friends and associates of the late Principal Private Secretary to Governor Adams Oshiomhole, Olaitan Oyerinde, yesterday, held a third year memorial meeting in honour of late Oyerinde, who was also a Deputy General Secretary of the NLC. They called on relevant authorities to bring Oyerinde's killers to book, lamenting that despite the petitions and appeals, the Federal Government failed to arrest the true killers of their colleague who was murdered at his residence in Benin City three years ago.

Speaking on the occasion, General Secretary, Textile Workers Union, Issa Aremu, said the killing of Oyerinde raised the “painful nostalgia of Nigeria’s unresolved individual murder cases, high or low without an official declaration of war.”

He lamented the controversies that surrounded the killing of Oyerinde which led to the police and the Department of State Security, DSS, parading two sets of suspects for the same offence, describing same as shameful.

Former Attorney General of Edo State, Osagie Obayuwana described the late Oyerinde as “a bridge builder, tender, humorous yet fearless. It is my hope that one day, the Nigerian Police will feel challenged that an offence had been committed and will not rest until it is investigated.”

In his opening remarks, one of the conveners of the event, Taiwo Akerele described Oyerinde as a humane person.

“He was prepared for the assignment he was executing at the time he fell to the cold of hands of death, he was a thorough bred intellectual, he had a sound clarity of thought, solid background on the administrative philosophy of his boss and a clear ideology on the imperatives of social inclusion."

Vanguard, TUESDAY, MAY 5, 2015—51

Okpe youths congratulate Buhari, Okowa, others

Impunity, sycophancy led to PDP’s loss, says Ndoma-Egba

By Johnbosco Agbakwuru

T

A

BUJA—AS Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, members trade blames over its performance in the justconcluded general elections, Senate Leader, Victor NdomaEgba(SAN), has said it was impunity and sycophancy that caused the party's defeat.

This came on the heels of the lamentation of Senator Suleiman Adokwe from Nasarawa State, who recently told journalists that the defeat of President Goodluck Jonathan and PDP was an institutional conspiracy where some leaders of the party worked for the opposition.

The party will from May 29 be in the minority, as All Progressives Congress, APC, takes control the Federal Government in the incoming administration.

Senator Ndoma-Egba, who was stopped from coming back to the Senate in the 8th assembly, said the unfortunate massive defeat of the party started from the December 2014 primaries, when the governors imposed their preferred, but unpopular candidates, on the party.

He said the development resulted in some of the members of the party looking for other party platforms to achieve their dreams without any corresponding influx into the party.

The Senate Leader made this disclosure in a lead paper, Majority and Minority Parties in the Legislature: Party Defection (cross carpeting in the legislature), delivered at the induction course for legislators-elect of the 8th National Assembly held at the International Conference Centre in Abuja.

He said: “Within the parties, especially the PDP, government is no longer of the people and of the people. It is now government of governors, by governors and for governors.

“This has resulted in brazen injustice and restricted the political space for many.”

From left— John Ugbe, Managing Director, MultiChoice Nigeria; Genevieve Nnaji, Nollywood star; and Wangi Mba-Uzoukwu, Regional Director, AfricaMagic, West Africa, during the launch of AfricaMagic Igbo held in Enugu.

ESELE TO BUHARI: Reform NNPC in 100 days or be sucked in zFingers executive, legislature in corporation's crisis

By Michael Eboh

F

ORMER President of Trade Union Congress, TUC, Mr. Peter Esele, has warned the incoming administration of Gen Muhammadu Buhari (retd) to immediately lay down plans on how to reform Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, in its first 100 days in office or risk being sucked into the crisis within the corporation.

Esele, who spoke to Vanguard in Abuja, also accused the executive and the legislative arms of government of culpability in NNPC crisis, stating that they played a significant role in the crisis.

He said: “The incoming administration must have to decide what they want to do with NNPC before they get there. If they dilly-dally, I can assure you that after three months, they will be part of the problems.

“If the incoming government does not do something about NNPC within the first 100 days in office, if they do not have a plan for NNPC, they too will also be sucked into it.”

Flays govt agencies

Esele, who was also former President of Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria, PENGASSAN, disclosed that the agents of government designed to check the excesses of NNPC have over the years failed to carry out their duties, but had instead hobnobbed with the corporation, getting subsumed into the corporation’s crisis.

According to him, whatever has been happening in NNPC was done with the connivance of both the executive and the legislature.

He said: “All of these abuses that are perpetrated in NNPC are nothing new. If you have been reading all NEITI reports, they have also alluded to the fact that the financial system in NNPC is opaque.

“When you are talking about all of these, I will ask, where are the oversight functions?

The minister (executive) is supposed to do his own; then you also have in the Senate and in the House of Representatives, committees that are supposed to oversee what is going on in NNPC.

“When you talk about the whole scale of NNPC being corrupt, you have to look deeper. NNPC became an octopus because every other agent of the state that was supposed to oversee what is happening in NNPC are also part and parcel of what is going on inside NNPC. “That is why since 1999, NNPC gets away with anything, because all of those in the National Assembly, executive and the legislatures are all part of the looting inside NNPC.”

... as Itsekiri amnesty beneficiaries task Buhari on equity

I

TSEKIRI Amnesty Beneficiaries, IAB, has called on President-elect, Gen Muhammadu Buhari (retd), and his vice, Professor Yemi Osibanjo, to ensure full implementation of the amnesty programme based on equity, justice and fair play, when they assume office.

The group made the call in a statement by the Chairman, Peter Tidi, and Secretary, Bokhan Otone, while also congratulating Buhari and Osibanjo on their victory, urging them to employ capable hands to oversee the amnesty project.

The statement said: “Itsekiri ethnic group has been unduly victimized in the programme so far. We were given 500 slots and less than 100 have been sent for studies.

“We have over 100 Itsekiri youths with admission to study in the United Kingdom and 300 for vocational studies, but have not been

sponsored till date, while other ethnic groups are regularly been sent abroad.

“They have refused to fund studies and training for Itsekiri youths even when we have secured admission for more than four sessions.”

HE leadership of Okpe Youth Council, OYC, has congratulated President-elect, General Muhammadu Buhari (retd), Delta State Governor-elect, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa; Chief Ighoyota Amori; Mr. Monday Igbuya, Mr. Sheriff Oborevwori and Evelyn Oboro, on their victory in the justconcluded general elections.

A statement by President of the group, Mr. Sunday Akporavware; Public Relations Officer, Mr. Emmanuel Oghoro; and Secretary of the OYC, Mr. Raymond Osharakpor, described their victory as well deserved, noting that with the incoming administration, Nigeria will get a new lease of life.

It urged all Okpe sons and daughters at home and in the Diaspora to join hands and support the new administration, while OYC also condemning the recent xenophobic attack on Nigerians in South Africa.

Chief Amori is Senatorelect for Delta Central; Mr. Igbuya, memberelect, Sapele state constituency; memberelect, Okpe constituency, both in the Delta State House of Assembly; Mr. Sheriff Oborevwori, Okpe state constituency, and Evelyn Oboro, member-elect, Sapele, Okpe and Uvwie Federal constituency.

Ex-militant leader alleges threat to life over Buhari

T

HE National President, National Coalition of Niger Delta ExAgitators, NCNDE-A, ‘General’ Israel Akpodoro, has said he escaped suspected assassins on his way from Port Harcourt, Rivers State, shortly after Mbiama Junction, on his way from the coalition’s proBuhari meeting.

According to his aide, Bernard Ochuko, the Urhobo-born ex-militant leader was rescued by some truck drivers, who ran to the

scene on hearing sounds of gunshots.

He stated further that his boss had gone into hiding with his family, while receiving treatment for the injuries he received.

Akpodoro’s travail, according to Bernard, began after a meeting of the ex-militant leaders in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State capital, where he opposed a plan to cause crisis if President Goodluck Jonathan loses the presidential election to General Muhammadu Buhari (retd).

52—Vanguard, TUESDAY, MAY 5, 2015

Why I dropped out of senatorial election,

by Uduaghan

By Benjamin Njoku

G

OVERNOR Emmanuel Uduaghan of Delta State, who received the Silverbird Man of the Year Award at a colourful ceremony in Lagos, on Sunday, has explained why he dropped out of the senatorial election in his state.

Uduaghan, accompanied to the event by wife, Roli, and his Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Mr. Richard MofeDamijo, said he dumped his senatorial ambition because of his insistence that there must be peace in the state.

Apologising publicly to the Publisher of Vanguard Newspapers, Mr. Sam Amuka, for disappointing him, Uduaghan said nothing was too much to be sacrificed for peace.

He said: “There is somebody here who has affected my life tremendously, and the person is Uncle Sam Amuka. He means a lot to me. He is a great man and a father. A few months ago, I disappointed him. I probably have not explained to him why I disappointed him. But Uncle Sam, I stand here today to say that I disappointed you because of my insistence that there must be peace in Delta State. I knew

you were not happy when I withdrew from the senatorial race, but like you know, one of the things that caused the crisis we have been having today in the Niger Delta region is politics.

“When I made my intention known to contest for the Senate seat, I discovered that my pushing

and pushing to become a senator would lead to another interethnic crisis in the Niger Delta. I decided to step down. It was a great sacrifice, family sacrifice, ethnic sacrifice and political sacrifice. But for me, nothing is too much to sacrifice for peace.

“If there is anything I can

dedicate this award to, it is for the peaceful co-existence of all the ethnic groups in Delta State.

When I assumed office in 2007, we had a lot of distractions. But today, as I leave, we have more peaceful ethnic groups in the state and Asaba has been accepted as the capital of Delta State."

SEMINAR: From left: Mrs Adebisi Orekoya, kidnapped victim's mother; Mr Dimeji Awoyemi, moderator; Mr Kola Olugbodi, CEO (BCI); Mr John Aderoju, retired Deputy Director, DSS and Mrs Ayoleyi Ajayi, security expert, at a seminar on National Awarness & Sentitization against Child Kidnapping in Nigeria with the theme: Averting The Rising Spate Of Child Kidnapping in Nigeria, in Lagos yesterday.

Photo: Biodun Ogunleye.

We've paid March salaries, set to clear April —RIVERS GOV

By Jimitota Onoyume

P

ORT HARCOURT— RIVERS State Government, yesterday, said that staff of the state civil service had been paid March salaries, adding that efforts were already on to clear those of April.

State Commissioner for Information and Communications, Mrs. Ibim Semenitari, in a statement, said no staff of the state civil service was owed eight months salaries.

Speaking against the backdrop of protest by some persons, yesterday, who claimed that they had not been paid salaries for eight months, the commissioner noted that the state government was also making arrangements to pay staff of the state civil service their salaries for April.

She said: “It has come to the notice of the Rivers State Government that some persons claiming to be staff of the Rivers State Government Ministry of Sports have been protesting an alleged eight months non-payment of salary.

“While the Government of Rivers State will not wish to join issues with the demonstrators, it wishes to

note that all civil servants employed by the Government of Rivers State have been paid salaries up to the month of

March with plans to commence payment of April salaries.

“The Rivers State

Government has continued to ensure the payment of staff salaries because it believes that the welfare of its workers must be paramount in governance.”

Delta Assembly workers on strike, cripple House activities

A

By Festus Ahon

SABA—DELTA State House of Assembly workers, under the aegis of Parliamentary Staff Association of Nigeria, PSAN, yesterday, embarked on an indefinite strike action, crippling activities at the Assembly complex.

The union, in a communiqué by its Chairman, Mr McCartney Obrutu, called for the immediate amendment of the House of Assembly Service Commission Law which was passed in 2013.

Among other issues, the aggrieved workers are demanding that the office of the Chief of Staff of the Assembly be occupied by a staff of the Assembly as prescribed by the Fiscal and Responsibility Law. They are also demanding car and housing loan which they said should be made accessible to staff, while staff claims of over 10 years be paid to their respective beneficiaries.

In his reaction, Speaker of the

House of Assembly, Mr Peter Onwusanya, said the action of the workers amounted to labour intimidation and “as such erred in locking the gate of the

Assembly complex, even against elected lawmakers. You can only lock out your union member, not elected law makers of the Assembly.”

DELTA POLLS: Emerhor goes to tribunal, seeks re-run election

By Festus Ahon

A

S A B A — A L L Progressives Congress, APC, Delta State governorship candidate in the April 11 election, Olorogun O’tega Emerhor, has dragged the state governor-elect, Dr Ifeanyi Okowa, the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP and Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, before the tribunal challenging the outcome of the election.

Emerhor, in the petition by his counsel, Chief T. J. Okpoko, SAN, is praying the tribunal to cancel the governorship poll and order a re-run, alleging that the poll was characterised

by electoral malpractices.

He alleged that card readers were not used in many areas during the election, adding that results were fabricated and allocated, in violation of the electoral laws and INEC guidelines.

He is further contending that “The number of accredited voters for results announced was more than actual card reader records while violence and ballot box snatching marred the election.”

Urging the tribunal to declare the elections null and void, Emerhor is also seeking an order for the conduct of rerun governorship election in the state.

Prison inmate in Edo escapes

By Gabriel Enogholase

B

ENIN—AN inmate of the Benin Central Prison, Edo State, yesterday, escaped from the headquarters of the Edo State Prison Service on Reservation Road, Benin City, where he was deployed to do menial duties.

The inmate suddenly took to his heels wearing only a pair of shorts, an eye witness told Vanguard.

It was learned that the inmate escaped through the Benin moat behind the prison headquarters.

Officials at the prison headquarters said the inmate did not escape through the main gate.

It was gathered that the prison official that was supposed to guard the inmate while he was working claimed that he went to eat when the incident occurred.

‘DESPOPADEC staff won’t lose jobs with Uduaghan’s new bill'

By Emma Amaize

W

ARRI—THE Oil and Gas Producing Communities of Nigeria, Delta State, have dismissed the claim by leaders of the Host Communities of Nigeria Producing Oil and Gas, HOSTCOM, in the state, that the new bill by Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan to restructure the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development C o m m i s s i o n , DESOPADEC, will lead to the sack of workers of the agency.

National Coordinator of HOSTCOM, Prince Maikpobi Okareme and secretary of HOSTCOM, Mr. Gabriel Isibeluo, told Vanguard that many DESOPADEC staff would lose their jobs if the commission was dissolved as envisaged by the bill.

But Mr. Benjamin Iwetan, who leads a section of HOSTCOM in the state, which is opposed Dr. P.K E g e d e g b e - l e d HOSTCOM, said “It is not true that the new bill by Governor Uduaghan would lead to sack of DESOPADEC workers.

“Rather than lead to loss of jobs, it will even create more jobs for our people."

Vanguard, TUESDAY, MAY 5, 2015 — 53 YOUR LUCK TODAY

By Joshua Adeyemo

LEISURE

Phone : 08056180139

ARIES: Those of you who are ambitious and hard working will have more to show for their efforts. However, if you fail to respect the law and its agents, you’ll be disappointed today. Be loving.

TAURUS: You will need to guard against deception. It is important you are more concern about both your immediate and far future. Be more practical.

GEMINI: Those of you who are moderately ambitious are in for a good day. As Neptune and the Moon are at loggerheads, it’s important you don’t take partners for granted.

CANCER: Even if there is minor misunderstanding within your working arena, the whole thing will work favourably for you. You just have to be your practical self. Watch what you eat, drink and the state of your health.

LEO: Some of you will start to see the result of your recent romantic escapade. Try your best to consolidate on success you have recorded yesterday. This is the wrong time to gamble at all.

THOUGHT FOR TODAY

Of strenght and struggle

By Richard Eromosele

L

IFE is like a puzzle. It is like a riddle, yet to be unwrapped. It is a story waiting to be told.

Life is a mystery.

Why is it that some seem to be living their heaven here on earth, while others

seem to be consigned to hell right from this planet earth? Why do some people suceed at anything they do,

TERROR MUDA

while others seemed to be operating under curse throughout their life? Is there any reward for struggle?

What is the price for

in “Never say goodbye”

success? What is the prize for trying?

Relax, strength comes from struggle.

And success comes from unrelenting efforts. Have you given your all? Then relax, time will vindicate you. No struggle without reward.

By Lanre Kehinde

VIRGO: Much will depend on how willing you are to co-operate with others, especially those within your base of operation. Lovers may be in for a romantic day. Try to be more family-minded.

LIBRA: Don’t believe that every information supplied to you is correct as there is the possibility of deception.

Make sure you are as practical as possible within your base of operation. Yet success will be yours today.

SCORPIO: As the saying goes, ‘money is the root of all evils,’ you will need to watch carefully your financial transactions today so that costly misunderstanding’ll be averted.

SAGITTARIUS: Not everybody within your base of operation is honest with you today. Yet, success is your portion today. Those of you who are more financially ambitious will have a rewarding day. Be loving.

CAPRICORN: Your good days are closer to you more than you imagine now but you will need to be a little bit careful today who you repose confidence in. Lovers will smile.

KAPTAIN AFRIKA

in

“Pretty Lunatic’

By Andy Akman

AQUARIUS: Not all friends can be trusted with money today when temptation to deceive you is very strong. The more secretive you are, the better for you.

PISCES: The Moon and Neptune are at loggerheads, therefore, you’ve got to watch your step so that you don’t work against your own interest.

ASTROLOGICAL COUNSELLING Send your date and place of birth to the Astrological Counselling, P .M.B 1 00 7, Apapa, Lagos P.M.B 100 007,

What are my characters?

Dear Joshua, I was born on April 4 making me an Aries person. I want you to tell me about my character according to my Aries Star.

Princewill, Lagos.

VIRGINIA

dadadekola@yahoo.com

Dear Princewill, When next you write an Astrologer it is better you include your full birth data. I have published characteristics of the twelve zodiac signs (Aries inclusive) many times but may be you are just coming on board so I am giving it to you.

BASIC CHARACTERISTICS OF ARIES-YOUR SUN SIGN Being natives of the first Zodiac sign, Arians are forced most times to rely on their initiatives by necessity rather than mere wishful thinking. And as the saying goes “necessity is the mother of invention” they bring new ideas and techniques that make them respectable leaders both in the academic world and in business/professional circle.

However, that is not to say Arians cannot record any meaningful progress without going through severe pain or difficulties. You are the ambitious type who truly crave for importance and recognition. And the Aries cardinal connection will induce you to take practical actions that will ensure your becoming very prominent.

Arians are truly active and impatient. The element of fire in their system makes them enthusiastic set of people with abilities to instil confidence in others and burn themselves and others with fire of desire to excel. That is another talent for leadership. If they (Aries born people) can cultivate consistency, they would wear down any opponent- be it physical or other-wise.

Influence of Aries indicates leadership ability, boldness, ruggedness, aggressive approach and competitive spirit.

Mars that rules Aries makes it’s natives combatants in many ways and most often times they are winners. Arians are strong headed. Through powerful Mars, Aries born people feel their needs and wants profoundly and then give in to strong desire - especially as it concern their wishes.

HOME & ABROAD

By Lawrence Akapa

54—Vanguard, TUESDAY, MAY 5, 2015

By Michael Eboh, with agency report

I

N D I C AT I O N S emerged, yesterday, that Boko Haram is in disarray, following shortages of weapons and fuel that had caused tensions between its foot soldiers and leaders, women rescued from the Islamist jihadi fighters

by Nigerian troops told newsmen.

The group abducted an estimated 2,000 women and girls last year as it sought to carve out an Islamic state in the North-East of Africa’s biggest economy.

The army has freed nearly 700 in the past week as it advances on Boko Haram’s last stronghold in the vast Sambisa Forest.

Women, who were rescued from the terrorists, said the militants began complaining to their captives about lack of guns and ammunition last month, and many were reduced to carrying sticks, while some of their vehicles had either broken down or lacked gasoline.

A 45-year-old mother of two, Aisha Abbas, who was taken from Dikwa in April, said the fighters all had guns at first, but that recently only some had guns.

Even the wife of their captors’ leader, Adam Bitri, openly criticized him and subsequently fled, two of the women said, with one describing Bitri as short and fat with a beard.

Horror tales

Of the 275 freed captives brought to a government-run camp for internally displaced people in the Malkohi hamlet on the outskirts of Yola, Adamawa State capital, only 61 were over 18, and many small children hobbled around, visibly malnourished.

The women said they were kept inside, occasionally brought food and sometimes beaten severely.

The children were left to run around or do errands for Boko Haram members, while those of the fighters were trained to shoot guns.

One of the women, 18-yearold Binta Ibrahim from northern Adamawa State, said: “One evening in April, Boko Haram followers stood before us and said ‘Our leaders don’t want to give us enough fuel and guns and now the soldiers are encroaching on us in Sambisa.

We will leave you’.

“They threatened us, but after they left, we were happy and prayed the soldiers would come and save us.”

Crushed

The women said once the militants spotted two helicopters circling at noon on the day of their rescue, they began trying to sell the women for up to 2,000 naira (about $10) each.

Towards evening, as the army approached, the captives

Boko Haram in disarray as shortage of arms, fuel hits insurgents zInsurgents' leader's wife, Adam Bitri, flee; described as short, fat, bearded zMilitants tried to sell captive women as army advanced zAbout 20 women, children crushed or shot during rescue zFighters spoke of Chibok schoolgirls in large Sambisa camp refused to flee with Boko Haram fighters, who began stoning them, but then ran away.

Salamatu Mohamed, from Damboa area in Borno, said: “We heard bullets flying around and laid on the floor.

“Some of the women were crushed (by army vehicles) and others wounded by bullets.

18 were killed. We counted them; they included infants.”

Mohamed said she gave birth, while in captivity and had trouble feeding her newborn as there was not enough food.

The women said the men frequently threatened to sell them or bring them to Boko Haram’s elusive leader, Abubakar Shekau, deep in the forest.

Nigeria has claimed to have killed him several times.

Defence spokesman, Chris Olukolade, told newsmen the man was not a priority target.

Hanatu Musa, a 22-year old mother kidnapped in June last from Gwoza in Borno State, quoted the fighters as saying their leader had deceived them into fighting and killing in the name of religion.

While the Nigerian army, which launched its counterattack in January, is confident it has the group cornered in the Sambisa nature reserve, a final push to clear them from the area has been curtailed by landmines.

Elusive Chibok schoolgirls

None of the women interviewed had seen any of the Chibok schoolgirls, but Abbas said fighters, who travelled from a camp in Sambisa where they were held, to source food, would describe the situation.

She said: “They said the Chibok girls were married off this year. Some sold to slavery, then some militants married two or four of the girls.”

Meanwhile, many of the women and girls rescued from Boko Haram are traumatized and showing signs of depression, with psychological counselling urgently needed as they recover in camps, relief officials said Monday.

“For some of them, who are really showing signs of

trauma, we need to make them realize that this is not the end of life,” said Sa’ad Bello, National Emergency Management Agency, NEMA, camp coordinator in Adamawa State.

“They need trauma counselling and psycho-social support to develop coping mechanisms,” he said, adding that many of the female hostages appeared to be suffering from serious depression, after enduring sustained abuse by their Islamists captors.

A total of 275 women and children were brought to a camp in Adamawa’s capital

Yola, weekend, following a military operation to free them in Boko Haram’s Sambisa Forest stronghold.

NEMA spokesman, Manzo Ezekiel, said a priority was to provide “trauma management so they are not treated as outcasts when they go back to society.”

Ezekiel said the authorities were keen to avoid the women being stigmatized in religiously conservative northern Nigeria, with reports Boko Haram may have kept some as sex slaves.

Medical tests would not

only check for conditions such as malaria, but sexually transmitted diseases, Ezekiel said.

Killed by landmines, tanks

Two women described how militant fighters tried to force them into marrying rebels after they were captured and how their escape turned to tragedy as about three women were killed by landmines.

Others were crushed by tanks as they hid in the undergrowth of the dense forest to avoid being caught in the crossfire between the soldiers and Boko Haram insurgents.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, MAY 5, 2015 — 55

Boko Haram plan to breed ‘successors’ in raped women — GOV SHETTIMA

By Ndahi Marama

M

AIDUGURI—BORNO State Governor, Kashim Shettima has said that the Boko Haram insurgents deliberately raped women with the intention of getting them pregnant so as to give birth to future insurgents as successors of their violent struggles Shettima, therefore, called for a special programme to break the chain anticipated by the insurgents.

He spoke yesterday in Maiduguri, saying that from his studies of practices associated with insurgents, there was a general belief among them that whoever did not share their ideology was an infidel and as such his wife and property can be freely acquired by the sect members with the wives serving as slaves that should satisfy the sexual urge of their masters.

This was contained in a statement signed by his Spokesman, Isa Gusau.

According to Gusau, Shettima made the observation while addressing some government officials at a closed- door meeting

in Maiduguri weekend.

He spoke against the backdrop of reports that hundreds women and children rescued by the military in recent days were pregnant.

The governor also said that it was the belief among the sect members that children fathered by them were likely to share their ideology later in life and succeed their parents in years to come hence such a circle would be maintained.

“I am happy with the recovery of hundreds of women and children; it is a thing of joy that they have been freed alive. However, I am also very worried about what the future holds for us if what I have gathered about these insurgents work according to their plan...

“These people (Boko Haram) have a certain spiritual conviction that any child they father will grow to inherit their ideology whether they lived with the children or not. They also believe that whoever does not

hold their ideology is an unbeliever that should be killed and rendered homeless and whatever belongs to him

AWARD: Success Nmerife, Head Marketing Communications, Computer Warehouse Group Plc (right) receiving the e-commerce platform of the year award from Chris Uwaje, former President, Institute of Software Practitioners of Nigeria (ISPON), at the BoICT awards held in Lagos.

Court okays extradition of ex-Mint boss, Okoyomon, to UK for trial

By Ikechukwu Nnochiri

A

BUJA—THE Federal High Court sitting in Abuja, yesterday, ordered the extradition of the former Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigeria Security, Minting and Printing Company, NSMPC, Mr. Ehidiamhen Okoyomon to the United Kingdom to face

corruption charges within 30 days.

Justice Evoh Chukwu made the order sequel to an application brought before the court by the Federal Government through the the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Mohammed Bello Adoke, SAN in line with provisions of Section 6(1) of the Extradition Act 2004 Cap E, R5 and in

accordance with Section 215 (1) paragraph (i) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended).

Adoke told the court that Okoyomon was needed in the UK over his alleged role in a bribery scandal involving officials of the Central Bank of Nigeria, the NSMPC and Securency International Pty of Australia.

The crime was allegedly committed between 2006 and 2008.

Urhobo group condemns Delta polls, insists on change throughout the process

T

HE Urhobo Patriotic Alliance, a sociocultural group in Delta State has condemned the recently held elections in Delta State, describing the entire process as not reflective of the wishes of Deltans.

In a chat with newsmen, yesterday, in Effurun, the group, through its Director of Publicity, Mr. Oruru Ariyor, claimed that the elections were completely rigged across the state with areas of small voting strength and low voter turnout

recording far higher votes than the more populated parts of the state.

According to Ariyor, “The so-called elections were massively rigged by the People’s Democratic Party, PDP, in conjunction with Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, the security services and the military, which unleashed mayhem on the hapless people of the state all in the name of maintaining security while acting out the script of PDP

or her becomes a legitimate booty recovered from enemies.

“These booties includes

women that are then allocated to ranking leaders of the sect as sex slaves. The sect leaders make very conscious effort to impregnate the women, some of them, I was told even pray before mating, offering supplications for God to make the products of what they are about doing become

they claimed was a credible exercise.”

Accusing the PDP of masterminding what he described as an electoral coup against the All Progressive Congress, APC, he said: “The results certainly cannot be said to be a true reflection of voting patterns across the state. ''The PDP simply wrote results for itself and other parties thereby usurping the role of INEC with the tacit approval of compromised INEC officials. In short the elections were simply sold to PDP as the highest bidder!”

56 — VANGUARD, TUESDAY, MAY 5 , 2015

UK Polls: Tories, Lib Dems trade blames D

AVID Cameron has accused the Liberal Democrats of “desperation” after they claimed he admitted he could not win a majority.

Lib Dem peer Lord Scriven - a friend of party leader Nick Clegg has said the Prime Minister told Mr Clegg in private that the Tories would not get an overall majority.

Mr Clegg refused to be drawn directly on what Mr Cameron had told him but said Tory claims they could win an overall majority were a “big, fat fib”.

He told Sky News: “I don’t think it’s for me to reveal private conversations but I’ve never met a senior Conservative ever who will tell you privately that they think they’re going to win this election outright.

“They’re now basically

communicating a big, fat fib that they are going to win a majority. They are not. They need 323 seats, they are not going to get 323 seats. Everybody knows that.”

The Prime Minister told Sky News: “I think Nick Clegg is becoming

increasingly desperate because he knows the truth - which is, there is an inescapable choice.

“On Thursday, people have to choose whether they want me to continue as Prime Minister or do they want Ed Miliband and the SNP, the

only other available option. “My message is: if you vote Lib Dem you are in danger of ending up with Ed Miliband, if you vote UKIP you’re in danger of ending up with Ed Miliband.”

Lord Scriven is a former leader of the city council in Sheffield, where the Lib Dem leader has his parliamentary constituency, and has been acting as the party’s campaign spokesman during the election.

*Charlotte Elizabeth Diana

Royals name baby T

*David Cameron

*Ed Miliband

*Nick Clegg

HE Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have announced that their baby daughter is to be called Charlotte Elizabeth Diana.

Kensington Palace tweeted the couple were “delighted” to announce the baby will be known as: “Her Royal Highness Princess Charlotte of Cambridge.” Bookmakers had said the favourite was ‘Alice’ after a flurry of last minute bets, knocking ‘Charlotte’ off the top spot. Ladbrokes

State dept clears Clinton Foundation of wrong doing T HE State Depart ment said yesterday it has no evidence that any actions taken by Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Rodham Clinton when she was secretary of state were influenced by donations to the Clinton Foundation or former President Bill Clinton’s speaking fees.

Spokesman Jeff Rathke said the department received requests to review potential conflicts primarily for proposed speech hosts or consulting deals for Bill Clinton and found no conflicts. Rathke said, however, that the department welcomes new commitments from the Clinton Foundation to disclose its donors and to support additional efforts that ensure all of those donations are public.

The State Department’s comment comes as Hillary Clinton’s presidential campaign grapples with criticism that foreign entities traded donations to the family charity for favors at the State Department. Hundreds of paid speeches given by Bill Clinton, which can command as much as

$500,000 or more per appearance, have also come under attack from Republican opponents.

Speaking during a nine-day tour of Clinton Foundation projects in Africa with his daughter, Chelsea, Clinton defended his foundation, saying there’s nothing “sinister” about getting wealthy people to help poor people in developing countries and that the organization had never done anything “knowingly inappropriate.”

“There’s been a very deliberate attempt to take the foundation down,” Clinton said.

RAN is determined to end the “manufactured crisis” over its nuclear programme and drafting of a final deal with world powers, though hard, is progressing, Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said yesterday. The remarks, on Zarif ’s official Twitter account, came two days after US Secretary of State John Kerry denounced what

China flays US on violation of religious freedom

B

*Former US president, Bill Clinton acknowledging greetings after delivering his speech in New York.

Iran ready to end ‘manufactured’ nuclear crisis

I

said that since the baby was born punters had placed more bets on the potential name than on the General Election.

The Duke places great importance on honouring Diana’s memory, having already used her sapphire and diamond engagement ring when he proposed to Kate.

The name Charlotte is French in origin and means “petite” and “feminine”. It is also the middle name of Kate’s sister Pippa.

he said was “hysteria” from opponents of an agreement, which is due

by June 30.

Zarif, Kerry and other diplomats from Iran and the P5+1 world powers (Britain, China, France, Russia and the United States plus Germany) say the deal would guarantee Iran’s nuclear activities are peaceful.

“Drafting #IranDeal is moving forward. Hard

work, and many brackets, remain. Determined to end this manufactured crisis & open new horizons,” Zarif tweeted.

Iran has long asserted its nuclear programme is for peaceful energy purposes and that international concern about it seeking a nuclear bomb is misplaced.

An outline agreement between Iran and the P5+1 reached on April 2

in Switzerland after marathon talks met with fierce opposition from US Republicans who say it would threaten America’s security.

But Zarif told an audience at New York University last week that Iran is willing to submit to the highest level of international transparency and wants to conclude a final accord as soon as possible.

EIJING yesterday lodged a protest against the United States after a government advisory body highlighted “severe violations of religious freedom” in China.

The Chinese foreign ministry expressed anger after the US Commission on International Religious Freedom, an independent federal government body, raised concerns over Beijing’s religious policies.

“We have launched representations with the US and urged the US to stop interfering in China’s domestic affairs by making use of the relevant issue,” Beijing’s foreign ministry spokesman Hua Chunying told reporters yesterday.

The report urged the State Department to continue to maintain China’s classification as a “country of particular concern” (CPC), a ranking which includes Myanmar and North Korea.

VANGUARD, TUESDAY, MAY 5 , 2015 — 57

Amnesty warns S/Leone against curb on freedom of expression

By Innocent Anaba

A

MNESTY International has called on Sierra Leone to stop using emergency regula-

Rescued migrants arrive in Italian ports N

EARLY 5,800 mi grants rescued from boats off the coast of Libya over the past 48 hours have arrived on various ports across Italy, with about 800 of them making it to the port of Pozzallo, according to coastguard officials. The development comes as part of European coastguard agencies’ biggest rescue operation this year.

Al Jazeera’s Stephanie Dekker, reporting on Monday from Pozzallo, on the island of Sicily, said that while the boats had docked almost five hours ago, most of the occupants had yet to disembark. “We’re being told that there is a rigorous one-by-one medical check-up going on to ensure that people do not carry transmittable dis-

*Hundreds of African migrants in rescue ships in Italy.

eases,” she said.

“You can see that people are getting agitated.

It has been a very stressful journey for them.”

Seven bodies were found on two large rubber boats packed with migrants, and rescuers picked from the sea the corpses of three others who had jumped into the

water when they saw a merchant ship approaching, the Italian coastguard said.

Two weeks after nearly 900 boat people drowned in the worst Mediterranean shipwreck in living memory, the flow of people desperate to reach a better life in Europe has accelerated as people

US warns Burundi’s President against third term bid

smugglers take advantage of calmer seas.

Italy’s coastguard has coordinated the rescue efforts by its own navy and coastguard, a French ship acting on behalf of the European border control agency, merchant ships and one vessel run by the privately funded Migrant Offshore Aid Station.

27, 15 members of the main opposition party, Sierra Leone People’s Party, SLPP and a Senior Officer from the Human Rights Commission of Sierra Leone, were arrested in Kenema(East) and are currently on trial. There are concerns about excessive use of force by the police with several people injured.

“A march organised by the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists on Independence Day in Freetown was also banned. Eight days earlier, 10 people were arrested for protesting outside the United States Embassy, while in March a meeting of the Bar Association was broken up.

In contrast, assemblies and events held by the governing party have been allowed.

“In November 2014 a journalist was detained for 11 days for criticising the Ebola response, and in April 2015eight people from Kono were detained for six months without charge following disorder linked to a suspected Ebola case. Last month a man was charged with insulting the President after having forwarded a Whatsapp message he did not author.

“In all of the cases, apart from the latter, State of Emergency powers were cited as reasons for police action.

Kenya maintains hardline against homosexuals

U

S Secretary of State John Kerry warned Monday that the bid by Burundi’s president to run for a third term in power goes against the constitution, calling for calm after days of protests. “We are deeply concerned about President Pierre Nkurunziza’s decision, which flies directly in the face of the constitution of this country,” Kerry told reporters in the Kenyan capital Nairobi. At least 12 people have been killed in more than a week of demonstrations in Burundi.

The small central African country has been rocked by violent protests since the ruling CNDDFDD party designated Nkurunziza, a former rebel leader and bornagain Christian from the Hutu majority, as its candidate in presidential elections due to be held on June 26.

Nkurunziza has been in power since 2005. His supporters, however, say he is eligible to run again, since his first term in office followed his election by parliament.

tions brought in to combat Ebola as a pretext to restrict freedom of expression and peaceful assembly.

Sabrina Mahtani, Amnesty International’s West Africa researcher in a statement in London, yesterday, said “Now that Ebola cases are reducing and schools have re-opened, the government should immediately review the State of Emergency provisions and ensure that only provisions strictly required to fight the Ebola epidemic remain in effect. Rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly must not be unnecessarily or disproportionately curtailed.”

The statement added that “The call follows an increase in arrests of opposition members, bans on peaceful protests and an unwillingness to tolerate dissent that has heightened following the removal of former Vice President Samuel Sam-Sumana on March 18. Even though cases of Ebola have sharply reduced in Sierra Leone, State of Emergency measureshave been increasingly used alongside other laws to stifle criticism, some of which are thought to be linked to the removal of the Vice President.

“On Sierra Leone’s Independence Day, April

K

*Israeli Security Forces arresting protesting Ethiopians in Tel-Aviv

ENYA’s deputy president, William Ruto, has told worshippers at a church service in Nairobi that homosexuality had no place in the east African nation, reports said yesterday.

Homophobia is on the rise across much of Afri-

Ethiopians protest against racism in Israel

I

MAGES of Israeli police firing stun grenades are usually set in the West Bank and involve Palestinian protesters. But on Sunday the situation was quite different - riot police battling thousands of Ethiopian Jews in the center of Tel Aviv. The spark was a week-old video showing two Israeli policemen punching, beating and trying to arrest an Israeli soldier of Ethiopian descent in what appeared to be an unprovoked attack.

The two-minute video is the latest in a string

of incidents that have raised uncomfortable questions about Israel’s treatment of ethnic minorities and its struggle to integrate newcomers into broader society, whether Jews or nonJews. On Monday, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met the soldier, Damas Fikadeh, at his Jerusalem office and hugged him. “I was shocked by the (video) footage,” he said on Twitter. “We cannot accept it, and we will change it.”

Some commentators have highlighted latent

racism in a country that has absorbed millions of migrants over the past 60 years but still agonizes over differences between East European and Middle Eastern Jews, relations with its large Arab minority, and how to handle more recent arrivals from Africa.

“There is a problem, there are discrimination issues, there is racism in Israel,” said Fentahun Assefa-Dawit, the director of Tebeka, an advocacy group for Ethiopian Israelis, who number around 130,000, many of them born in Israel.

“We want the prime minister to take this matter into his hands,” he said moments before he was due to meet Netanyahu. “We urge him, we demand of him, to bring these issues to an end.”

In the run-up to Israel’s election in March and the weeks since there have been a series of violent incidents, comments by politicians and policy proposals that have fueled concerns the country has a race problem - not just when it comes to the 20 percent Arab population but to minority Jewish groups too.

ca and homosexuality remains illegal in many countries, including Kenya where it was outlawed under British colonial legislation. “We will not allow homosexuality in our society as it violates our religious and cultural beliefs,” Ruto was quoted as telling a cheering congregation at the Jesus Winner Ministry Church on the outskirts of the capital.

“We will stand with religious leaders to defend our faith and our beliefs,” he said. “There’s no room for homosexuality in this country. That one I can assure you.”

Ruto’s comments came as US Secretary of State John Kerry visited Kenya. Asked to react to the reported comments, Kerry reiterated Washington’s position. “The US believes that all people are created equal and all people have rights, that includes people of every faith, every gender, every choice of partner, no matter who you love,” he told reporters.

58—Vanguard, TUESDAY, MAY 5, 2015

Reps threaten to issue bench warrant on Minister of Agric

A

BUJA—THE House of Representatives yesterday threatened to issue a bench warrant on the Minister for Agriculture, Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, over his failure to appear before an Ad-hoc Committee looking into alleged fraud and evasion of rice import duties and levies by importers and investors on which a public hearing was conducted.

Chairman of the committee and Deputy Leader of the House, Leo Ogor, made this known after fingers were pointed in the direction of the Ministry by participants, with regards to the administration of government policy on rice importation and payable duties/levies on import quota by investors.

He said if by today the minister failed to show up before the close of the investigative hearing, the committee would have no choice than to issue a bench warrant.

Ogor in his opening address, had stated that: ‘’This hearing was sequel to a resolution of the House mandating the Ad-hoc Committee to investigate alleged fraud abuses, evasion of import duties by rice importers.

“The aim is to uncover fraud and expose the endemic corruption in the importation of rice with a view to stemming the tide and boost employment generation as well as strengthen the nation’s depleting foreign reserve.

“The minister has no reason not to be here because the Ministry was duly served the invitation.

I see no reason why people would be invited to a hearing that’s for the benefit of the people and will not turn up.

“You are a servant of the people just like we all are.

What we are doing here is for the benefit of our nation’s economy so; before the end of the hearing; we are hoping to see people from the Ministry come in, otherwise we might be forced to make some very strong pronouncement.”

Cardinal Arinze, others eulogize Bishop Isizoh ...as Ogbunike Catholic community organizes grand reception

By Nwabueze Okonkwo

O

NITSHA—THE Prelate emeritus of the Pontifical Council for Inter-Religious Dialogue in the Vatican City, His Eminence, Cardinal Francis Arinze on Sunday eulogized the newly consecrated Auxiliary Bishop of Onitsha Catholic

Archdiocese, His Lordship, Most Rev. Denis Chidi Isizoh for his appointment as a Bishop, by the Catholic Pontiff, Pope Francis.

Others who also eulogized Bishop Isizoh at a grand reception accorded him at the St. Vincent’s Catholic Church, Ogbunike in Oyi Local Government Area of Anambra state, his home town during his first mass as a Bishop, following his episcopal

consecration at the Basilica of the Most Holy Trinity on Friday, May 1, were the Metropolitan Archbishop of Onitsha, His Grace, Most Rev. Dr. Valerian Okeke; second indigenous catholic priest from Ogbunike, Rev Fr. Dr. Celestine Chigbo and Hon Vivian Okadigbo, the re-elected member representing Oyi state Constituency in Anambra State House of Assembly.

CEREMONY: StarTimes Chairman, Mr. Pang Xinxing (right); Ms. Sohu, CEO, Zhang Chaoyang (2nd right), and other guests, at the 5th Beijing International Film Festival, BJIFF, opening ceremony, in Beijing, China.

PDP's misfortune in last polls, normal political hiccup —Ohakim

By Chidi Nkwopara

O

WERRI—IMMEDIATE past Governor of Imo State, Chief Ikedi Ohakim, has said that the misfortune of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in the last general elections, was “a normal political hiccup.”

Chief Ohakim made his feelings known when he played host to the six PDP members-elect of the State House of Assembly and scores of other loyalists in his Okohia, Isiala Mbano local council area country home.

“The misfortune of the PDP in the last general election was a normal hiccup in politics engineering. The situation offers us the opportunity to go back tote drawing board and put things right”, Ohakim said.

The former Governor pleaded with all PDP members-elect in the National and State Assemblies to resist the temptation of defecting to any other party, stressing that Imo remains a PDP state.

Chief Ohakim also seized the opportunity to donate two buses to the two wards in Isiala Mbano local council

area that successfully delivered PDP candidates during the last general polls.

While acknowledging that he is no longer occupying any public office, Chief Ohakim announced his desire to

immediately start with the empowerment of women and youths, through his nongovernment organization, African Clean and Green Initiative.

In their separate speeches, Cardinal Arinze, Archbishop Okeke, Rev. Fr. Chigbo and Hon. Okadigbo described Isizoh as the right person chosen by God and Pope Francis to assist Archbishop Okeke as an Auxiliary Bishop in the Archdiocese and urged him not to be tired of working in the Lord’s Vineyard.

Earlier in his homily, Bishop Isizoh had thanked God and the Pope for finding him worthy to be consecrated as a Bishop to assist Archbishop Okeke in piloting the affairs of the Archdiocese.

He therefore urged all and sundry to continue to pray for him to succeed in doing the job to the satisfaction of God and humanity, adding that on his own part, he would continue to pray ceaselessly for God mercy, guidance and protection.

Okadigbo, in her own speech, thanked her constituency for reelecting her for a second tenure in the state assembly, adding that education and employment would be her priorities in the five communities that make up her constituency.

Fr. Chigbo who was chairman of the reception organizing committee, expressed gratitude to God for choosing Isizoh, one of the indigenous priests from Ogbunike community as a Bishop, adding that as an official of the Pontifical Council for InterReligious Dialogue in the Vatican City, Isizoh would bring his wealth of experience to propagate the Gospel in the Archdiocese in general and his base in Aguleri from where he would superintend six regions within the Archdiocese.

Why Arik Air suspended Dubai operations

By Daniel Eteghe

R

EACTIONS FROM stakeholders in the aviation industry have continued to trail the decision of Arik Airline to suspend flight operations on the Lagos/Abuja-Dubai route on Monday, May 4, 2015.

This is coming barely a year after commencement of operations on the route in July 2014.

It cited a challenging wider economic environment in Nigeria as well as increasingly stringent travel regulation controls in the United Arabs Emirates , UAE, as reasons for its decision.

However, stakeholders in the industry said that the major reason Arik Airline stopped flight was its inability to compete with the likes of Emirates Airlines and Qatar Airways who are major players on that route.

A source who spoke on the condition of anonymity, said since Nigeria Airways developed the Dubai route, no other airline in

the country had been able to fly on the route successfully and make profit.

The source said: “Arik Air cannot compete with the likes of Emirates and Qatar Airways on the Dubai route. This is because, the government of United Arabs Emirates heavily subsidises Emitrates’operations on that route. ‘’They can even take fuel free of charge and you know that that alone costs about 35 to 40 percent of the total cost. Emirates Airlines can easily reduce its fares just to beat competitors on that route.

“Nigerian Airways developed the Dubai route, even before the coming of Emirates airline and since the demise of Nigerian Airways, airlines such as Virgin Nigeria, Bellview, now Arik Air have not been able to compete on the route.

“They are not telling you the truth, it was the same factors that made those airlines like Virgin Nigeria, Bellview airlines to

cancel their operations to Dubai that is also affecting Arik Airline, the bottom line is that they cannot compete on that route.”

National President of Air Transport Services Senior Staff Association of Nigeria, ATSSSAN, Comrade Benjamin Okewu, pointed out that there were more to reasons given by Arik Airlines for suspension of operations.

Comrade Okewu affirmed that ever since the demise of the country’s national carrier, Nigeria Airways, no other domestic airlines had been able to compete effectively on the international routes to which Dubai was not an exemption.

“I want to believe that outside the reasons that Arik Airline is giving now, there is more to it, even in Nigeria, we have issues with Arik in terms of their prompt payment of services that they have enjoyed and I know that some of these things are not tolerated in those country abroad."

Vanguard, TUESDAY, MAY 5, 2015 —59

Vanguard CLASSIFIED

Nollywood seeks special tribunal on piracy

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babatunde Fashola, SAN (2nd left), Lord Chancellor and Retired Justice of the Supreme Court, Justice George Adesola Oguntade (left), President of Synod, The Most Revd Dr Ephraim Adebola Ademowo (2nd right) and his wife, Mrs. Oluranti Ademowo (right) during the opening ceremonies of the Third Session of the Thirty-Second Synod of the Anglican Communion of Diocese of Lagos with the theme, “The Authority of the Scriptures”, in Lagos, yesterday.

By Emmanuel Elebeke

A

FRICAN Movie academy award winner and Nigerian born politician, Richard Mofe Damijo, has called on the incoming Buhari led federal government to set up a special tribunal to handle cases of piracy in the Nollywood industry.

He made the call, yesterday, during the first public presentation of a new movie entitled Oloibiri at Silverbird Cinemas, Abuja.

The movie, produced by Rightangle Productions is an action thriller mirroring fear, dread and international exploration and governmental responsibility as well as the unseen benefits of desperate hope of the aggrieved militants in the oil rich Niger Delta region of Nigeria.

With the tribunal, Damijo said, it will spell out the punishment or compensation for any pirated work of art since what is obtainable now is too low and insignificant to minimize the loss. He said that the body of the law guiding piracy in the country is okay but expressed reservation on the manner of the policing.

Damijo who emphasized on the need for government to consider the call to ensure that offenders are prosecuted when they are found guilty and meant to pay for the damages, noted that the “existing laws are good but what is needed to add is maybe setting up special tribunal to handle cases of piracy and step up the punishment or compensation for piracy because right now it is too low and insignificant. “The body of the law is okay, the problem is in the policing and making sure that offenders are prosecuted when they are found guilty they pay damages."

He added,“Though, my work is not to protect the movie from being pirated, somebody has that job.

The regulator should ensure that all creative works of Nollywood are protected and we earn money from it. I am not going to stand here to legislate on the kind of movie film makers will do, I am just privileged to be part of the one that is topical now; just to entertain people and make them think as a people and amount of work that could be done. "

2015 polls: Media’s role on PVC use, card readers, made difference —Entwistle

By Soni Daniel, Regional Editor, North

U

NITED States Ambassador to Nigeria, James Entwistle, has hailed Nigerian media’s enlightenment on the use of card readers and permanent voter cards for the just concluded 2015 election, saying that the innovations helped in ensuring the success of the national and state elections.

The ambassador spoke at an event organised at the American Embassy in Abuja to mark this year’s World Press Freedom Day. Entwistle applauded the Nigerian media for its nationalistic approach, particularly in ensuring that the electorate was duly informed of the importance of the card readers and the PVCs, which held to make the difference in the polls.

The envoy also praised the media for helping to propagate the message of peace before, during and after the elections, thereby bringing about nonviolent outcomes.

Entwistle said: "I was also impressed with the manner in which Nigeria media took up the cause of non-violence and

regularly called the on candidates to publicly take what I call the non-violence pledge. Freedom of the press in the First Amendment of the Bill of Rights, states that in as much as this freedom is backed up, it should not be seen as something at one’s disposal."

The ambassador urged the media to avoid single sources and push for a balanced opinion, no matter how reliable the source may be. According to him, the approach would help to reduce misinformation of facts, which may taint the image of the press.

Entwistle said that the Press Freedom Day was a celebration of an important freedom for the press, as it brings to the fore the significance of the freedom of the press and remind the governments of their duty to respect and uphold the right to freedom of expression enshrined in Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

Mr Samson Itodo, who is the Head Research Policy and Advocacy of the Youth Initiative For Advocacy, Growth and Development, said the media did credibly well in raising the confidence of the electorate and

also commended the US envoy for his campaign of non-violence before the elections. Itodo also criticized the National Broadcasting Commission over failure to regulate the hate and vitriolic speeches that dominated the airwaves stressing that the media should assist in building institutions for the interest of the people rather than the government in power.

Managing Director, Daar News Services, Mr Imoni Amarere, in his contribution sought to play down on the attack on his organisation for being partisan, claiming that the station played by the rule during the campaigns. Amarere, however, accused sections of the media of succumbing to partisanship and throwing professionalism to the winds, adding that some others succumbed to political pressure, proprietary interest and the lure of advert revenue to do some unethical things.

He noted that useful lessons were learnt from the elections stressing that it is possible for the people to wrestle power and sovereignty and hand same to who they please.

Iriase: I'm APC's bridge in House of Reps

By Emman Ovuakporie

A

BUJA—AN aspirant for the position of Speaker, House of Representatives in the eighth Assembly, Pally Iriase, yesterday, said that going by permutations in the run-up to the contest, he was sure he would be the bridge that the All Progressives Congress, APC, needs to have a smooth sailing in the Green Chamber.

Iriase who disclosed this to members of the House of Representatives Press Corps said that though he would respect the position of the party when it finally zones the position, each member is expected constitutionally to vote independently since representatives' certificates of return did not bear any affiliation to particular parties.

On how he can swing votes in

his favour, Iriase said; “The South South caucus in the House will be excited if they have somebody like me especially with my interaction with them. Once the party gives the nod, they will be too willing to support me. The only snag is that majority of members from the geo-political zone are PDP. “However, remember that every member-elect has certificate of return not associated with any party and any body with that certificate is eligible to vote. A member requires a simple majority which in this case is 181 members to be elected speaker. Remember the PDP has 139 members and the opposition party feels this fatherless child will be more amenable, your guess is as good as mine.”

The member who is among the

only four members coming from the entire South South and South East geo political zone under the APC in the eighth House of Reps said his aspiration is driven by the desire to provide a complementary leadership in the House to the President-elect, General Muhammadu Buhari as a zero tolerant leader to corruption in our public life.

He added, “my aspiration is enabled and anchored on the federal character provision of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. My aspiration is based on my robust experience and undeniable qualification for the post of Speaker. My aspiration is propelled by my desire to champion a legislative agenda that gives meaning and practical expression to the change mantra of the incoming administration of APC.”

DANIEL— I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Dinah Iyanna Daniel, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Dinah Iyanna Musa. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

OSUJI—I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Chinwendu Ulumma Osuji, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Chinwendu Ulumma Osuji Awusaku. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

NZEH—I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Camilia Ifeyinwa Nzeh, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Camilia Ifeyinwa Ugwuegbulam. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

BELLO— I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Bello Olabisi Tawakalt, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Atofarati Olabisi Tawakalt. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

NAMO—I, formerly known and addressed as Namo Eggon, now wish to be known and addressed as Bawa Embezye Tanko Namo.

All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

O W A B O R — I , formerly known and addressed as Miss Uche Owabor, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Uche Uwuigbe.

All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

J O S E P H — I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Grace Mabe Joseph, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Grace Mabe Philip. All former documents remain valid. Enterprise Bank Ltd and general public please take note.

60 — Vanguard, TUESDAY, MAY 5, 2015

Pacquiao wants rematch with Mayweather M

ANNY Pacquiao wants a rematch with Floyd Mayweather.

The Fil i p i n o r i n g icon made the pronouncement on Monday in a live interview on “24 Oras,” a day after he lost via unanimous decision to the unbeaten American champion.

"I want a rematch. I have to face Mayweather again when I am fully fit," said Pacquiao, adding that he wants to face Mayweather at his best.

Pacquiao admitted to being affected by an injury during the fight after hurting his shoulder in training.

Pacquiao, however, doesn’t know if Mayweather would want to face him again.

“I don't know if Mayweather will give me a rematch” said Pacquiao, whose negotiations with Mayweather was off and on for five years before they finally agreed to have a fight.

There is no rematch clause in the contract of the two fighters.

Before looking at another fight with Mayweather, however, Pacquiao will undergo another magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) exam to determine if he needs surgery on his shoulder.

Pacquiao ’s trainer Freddie Roach has already expressed willingness to go at Mayweather again.

“I thought we fought a good fight,” said the Hall of Famer. “We’d love to do it again.

Hopefully as soon in the future.”

M a y w e a t h e r, for his part, doesn’t seem to be too keen on another faceoff with Pacquiao.

“I can quit boxing today and I’m a-okay,” he said.

Pacquiao lands a right jab on Meaweather's face during their unification bout Sunday morning

Warri Wolves to know opponents today N

IGERIA’s only remaining team in continental club

competition, Warri Wolves FC could play any of top North African sides Esperance Sportive du

Tunis, Raja Casablanca of Morocco and Al Ahly of Egypt or sub-Saharan sides Stade Malien, AC Leopards and Sanga Balende of DR Congo in the third round of the 2015 CAF Confederation Cup competition.

Their opponents will emerge at Tuesday ’s Draw Ceremony for CAF headquarters in Egypt, with all eight losing sides in the CAF Champions League moving a step down to the CAF Confederation Cup.

Wolves, who sent packing FC Etancheite of DR Congo 3-1 on aggregate in the second round, is one of eight teams from the CAF Confederation Cup that will join the losing eight sides from the CAF Champions League in Tuesday’s draw.

None of the eight successful teams from the Confederation Cup, namely Orlando Pirates of South Africa, Club Africain and Etoile du Sahel of

Tunisia, ASEC Mimosas of Cote d’Ivoire, Hearts of Oak, Zamalek of Egypt, AS Vita of DR Congo and Warri Wolves will be paired against each other.

They will have to face the eight losing sides from the CAF Champions League, namely AS Kaloum of Guinea, Stade Malien of Bamako, AC Leopards of CongoBrazzaville, Raja Casablanca of Morocco, CS Sfaxien and Esperance of Tunisia and Al Ahly of Egypt.

Okpekpe Road Race’s Medical guidelines released

T

HE Medical Coordinator of the Okpekpe10 kilometres race slated for May 16, Dr. Gab Okafor has

Warri Wolves celebrate victory.

We could have done better in Bahamas — AFN

By Ben Efe

A

S the final events of the IAAF World Relays were concluded in Nassau Bahamas, Athletics Federation of Nigeria officials have lamented the poor conditions their athletes contended with as they pursued results in the competition.

The Nigerian women 4x200m won the country’s only medal, a gold after they

benefited from a slip from the USA team. But according to AFN technical director, Omatseye Nesiama money issues and ill-health prevented the Nigerian teams from making the desired impact.

“Unfortunately, visa issues and ill-health of some of our athletes robbed us again from getting our full strength on ground in the Bahamas.

This caused us to put up a no show ‘scratch’ from the men’s 4x100m. For example athletes like Ogho- Oghene

Egwero,OghenetegaOdele, Rilwan Fasasi, Tosin Adeloye could not make the trip,” said Navy Commodore Nesiama.

Odele disclosed in Lagos that he was pained by the fact that he couldn’t make the trip despite all his training and sacrifices for the country. “I was told there wasn’t money to pay for my visa fees at US embassy. It was painful that I missed the opportunity to compete,” he said.

Ogba

unveiled management tit bits for the competition in accordance with the IAAF competitions’ guidelines for road race events.

Disclosing this to news men in Benin City on Monday, Dr. Okafor stated that the main components for the road race include: preparticipation evaluation and briefing for participating athletes, qualified medical team and medical volunteers, comprising doctors, nurses, EMTs, Physiotherapists who will be deployed appropriately.

He said some of the

medical personnel would be at fixed location to offer medical service points like the finish line and aid stations along the route, at medical vehicles (ambulances), while first response teams to give immediate first aid along the course of the race will also be available.

Okafor also said the medical team would provide major support and AID at the finish line with all the emergency support and medical supplies, provide minor AID station at the water stations to provide first aid and relief for minor injuries.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, MAY 5, 2015 — 61

Super Eagles Euro watch Aaron Samuel:

Mikel Obi:

H

E was not listed for Guangzhou R&F as they drew goalless at home to Liaoning Hongyin. He is still not back from a shoulder injury.

H

e was in action for the entire second half for Chelsea as they beat Crystal Palace 1-0 to win the EPL title. He replaced Juan Cuardado.

Efe Ambrose:

T

HE defender was in ac tion for 65 minutes for Celtic as they thrashed Dundee 5-0. He was replaced in the 65th minute by Darnel Fisher.

Ogenyi Onazi:

T

HE energetic midfielder was an unused substitute for Lazio in a 1-1 draw at Atalanta.

Odion Ighalo:

T

HE international striker was a 78th minute substitute for Watford as they drew 1-1 to Sheffield Wednesday. He replaced Matej Vydra.

Vincent Enyeama:

Osaze Odemwingie:

T

HE fit-again striker was in action for nine minutes as Stoke City lost 2-0 at Swansea City.

T

HE Eagles captain was in goal for Lille as they won 3-1 against Lens.

John Ogu: He was in action for the entire duration as Hapoel Be’er Sheva won 2-1 at Maccabi Petach Tikva.

Akeem Latifu:

T

HE right back was in action for the entire duration for Aalesund in a 2-0 win over Bodo/Glimt. He compatriot Leke James scored one of the goals.

Emmanuel Emenike: Austin Ejide:

T

HE goalkeeper manned the post for Hapoel Be’er Sheva as they beat Maccabi Petach Tikva 2-1.

K

ENNETH Omeruo: The defender was an unused substitute for Middlesbrough as they drew goalless to Brighton and Hove Albion.

C M Y K

T

HE striker was in action for 44 minutes as Fenerbahce beat Balikesirspor 43. Emenike was a 46th minute sub for Dirk Kuyt.

His compatriot, Isaac Promise scored for Balikesirspor.

L

eon Balogun: The right back was in action for the entire duration for his German second division club Darmstadt in a 3-2 win over Kaiserslauten.

Brown Ideye:

H

E was in action for 10 minutes as West Brom beat hosts Manchester United. He replaced Saido Berahino in the 80th minute.

Godfrey Oboabona: The defender was in action from start to finish for Rizespor as Karabukspor won 2-0.

Nnamdi Oduamadi:

H

E was in action for Latina as they beat hosts Varese 2-1.

Hope Akpan:

H

E was not listed for English Championship side Reading as they thrashed hosts Derby County 3-0.

62 — Vanguard, TUESDAY, MAY 5, 2015

•••As Real battle Juve for final•••

Juve plan operation ‘stop Ronaldo’ L

EONARDO Bonucci has outlined Juventus can stop Cristiano Ronaldo.

Tonight will see the Bianconeri host Los Merengues in the first leg of their Champions League semi-final.

“By playing as a team, by means of concentration and determination, and by running the extra mile for your teammate.

That’s the only way to fill the gap that subsists between us and Real Madrid.

“They’re very strong from an individual point of view, while we’re strong as a team.

“We’ll need a great game in terms of character, courage, attention in defence and cynicism upfront. We have confidence and we know we’ll have our chances. We have full respect for Real Madrid but at the end of the day what matters is how we walk into the pitch.

“If we go in with courage and a desire to win, then we’ll have a good night at home and that will let us play for something important in Madrid.”

Ancelotti: Anything can happen

•Ancelotti

C

ARLO Ancelotti believes ‘anything can happen’ when his Real Madrid side meet Juventus in the Champions League semi-final.

“If Juve are in the semi-finals it’s because they deserve it. It was a surprise, but that doesn’t mean that we’re the favourites. When you get to the semi-finals anything can happen.

“Last year [in the final] we were almost donefor, and we won in the end. There are four teams [in the semis] and they all have the same chance. We don’t know who is better,''

Pepe taunts Juve

•Ronaldo

Bale back in the starting picture

Pirlo targets glory A

•Pirlo C M Y K

NDREA Pirlo is open to the possibility of leaving Juventus should he win the Champions League, but confirms they will be ‘his last team in Italy’.

“Ending my Juventus story by pocketing the Champions League would be a dream come true,” Pirlo has said ahead of his side’s semifinal first leg with Real Madrid.

“But I won’t stop playing, I’ll go on as long as I have the same great desire to keep training every day.

“Winning this tournament would admittedly be the best way to close [my Juve career.''

•Pogba

I

•Pepe

J

UVENTUS will adopt a defensive approach in tonight’s Champions League match, Real Madrid defender Pepe has said.

“They ’ll play in the typical Italian way, looking to defend and then hitting us with their attackers.

We’re prepared for this, we’re ready, and we’re very confident we can get a good result.''

T’s reported Gareth Bale will be fit to start for Real Madrid in the Champions League semifinal against Juventus tonight.

Marca says the Wales international will return from a calf injury suffered against Malaga, leaving Karim Benzema as the only one of the BBC likely miss out.

Benzema could though be on the bench, Marca speculates, while Bale would partner Cristiano Ronaldo in a 4-4-2 formation.

Isco or Javier Hernandez is the choice facing Carlo Ancelotti, Marca continue, as Sergio Ramos could continue in midfield.

Hernandez would miss

•Bale out in a 4-4-2 formation but if Ancelotti uses Bale’s return to go back to 4-3-3, the Mexico international would have a place and Isco would miss out.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, MAY 5, 2015 — 63

Mayweather’s worth soars to $330 million F

L O Y D Mayweather Jr’s net worth is set to surge by 37% to as much as $330 million USD, according to Wealth-X estimates, after the boxer, nicknamed “Money”, beat Manny Pacquiao in a historic 12-round c h a m p i o n s h i p welterweight super-fight at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas on Saturday .

The match is the richest in boxing history, with the fighters sharing a purse expected to total $300 million, although the exact figure is unknown. The purse split is 60-40 in Mayweather ’s favor.

Thirty-eight-year-old Mayweather, an undefeated five-weight world champion, is expected to take home as much as $180 million in revenues from Saturday’s fight including pay-per-view subscriptions, arena tickets, sponsorship, merchandise, broadcast sales, and other earnings.

Wealth-X estimates are based on publicly available information on the individuals.

Pacquiao: Mayweather knew I was hurt

O

N Saturday night, Manny Pacquiao revealed he was battling a right shoulder injury in his unanimous decision defeat to Floyd Mayweather Jr. at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. Pacquiao said he hurt his right shoulder in training some three weeks before the bout, an injury he says was so severe that he was considering postponing the fight.

Pacquiao believes Mayweather knew about the injury, claiming that Floyd repeatedly grabbed his right forearm during their fight.

“He knew, he knew about it,” Pacquiao told Filipino reporters, while grabbing his right forearm.

“I’m positive that he knew. Because of that leak. They knew. Do you see him pulling me by my arm? Because he knew.

Did not he pull [my arm]?”

MONEY MAN — Mayweather

Holyfield: I felt Pacquiao won Tyson: I was a killer,

Mayweather a businessman

A

devastated Manny Pacquiao insists he believes he had beaten Floyd Mayweather despite judges awarding a unanimous points win to Floyd Mayweather Jr. in the richest fight in history on Saturday at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas.

Not many people agree with Pacquiao’s position, but former heavyweight champion Evander Holyfield is one of the few who saw the Filipino star as the victor.

“Well, I actually thought he did [win the fight]. The fact of the matter is you are the most aggressive one, you hitting him with shots. He was the one blocking shots. Pacquiao seemed to hit him more times than he hit

•Pacquiao

F

•Holyfield Pacquiao. Didn’t nobody hurt each other real bad but the fact of the matter is if don’t nobody hurt each other bad and one guy is throwing the most punches, then how do you score the card?,” Holyfield told ESPN.

ORMER world heavyweight champion Mike Tyson wasn’t impressed by the relatively polite and civilised buildup, and the in-ring action, during this weekend’s “Fight Of The Century ” between Floyd M a y w e a t h e r, 4 8 - 0 (26), and Manny Pacquiao, 57-6-2 (38), which took place on Saturday night at the MGM Grand, Las Vegas.

Mayweather won solid a twelve round unanimous decision.

The 48-year-old was infamously mean and moody before, during a n d , o c c a s i o n a l l y, after his fights; the former fighter turned

promoter and pundit bemoaned the lack of devilment on display when speaking to The D a i l y Te l e g r a p h ’ s Gareth A. Davies.

“It’s almost like I’m in, I wouldn’t say church, but a library,” stated Ty s o n .

“Maybe I’m just a Neanderthal.

I wanted to kill the o t h e r g u y.

I’m a natural born killer. I want to win in dramatic fashion and hurt people. They make one guy the good guy and one guy the monster and they sell it and make a lot of money. B oxing is different from when I boxed. Those guys are businessmen up there.”

•Tyson

Vanguard, TUESDAY, MAY 5, 2015

Kick off: 7.45pm

Juve plan operation ‘stop Ronaldo’ — Pg.62 Kaduna to host Eagles’ Pacquiao wants rematch AFCON qualifiers with Mayweather — Pg.60 T

HE Ahmadu Bello Stadium in Kaduna has been proposed to stage next month’s 2017 AFCON qualifier against Chad.

The qualifier is billed for June 13 and it will be the first-ever clash between the two neighbours.

It will also be Stephen Keshi’s first match on his second coming as Nigeria coach.

Egypt and Tanzania are the other teams in Nigeria’s qualifying group for the tournament, which will be hosted in Gabon.

Calabar and Uyo were the Eagles home grounds for the failed attempt to qualify for

•Keshi

the 2015 AFCON. The 15,000-capacity ABS in Kaduna last hosted an Eagles match in November 2011, when Keshi played his second match as Nigeria coach. Nigeria defeated Zambia 2-0 in the friendly at the stadium.

The ABS has also hosted the qualifying tournament for the 2015 African Youth Championship as well as a 2014 CHAN qualifier against Cote d’Ivoire.

Warri Wolves to know opponents today — Pg.60

TAKE THIS: Floyd Mayweather (r) gives Manny Pacquiao a left hook in their unification bout Sunday morning.

Mayweather won by unanimous decision

QUICK CROSSWORD

TODAY'S

PUZZLE

FRI DAY'S FRIDAY'S

ANSWERS

ACROSS 1 Nearly (6) 5 Method (6) 8 Guess (8) 9 Close (4) 10 Weep (3) 12 Clearing (5) 15 Obtain (3) 17 Tune (3) 18 Stray (3) 19 Consume (3) 20 Viper (5) 21 Expert (3) 22 Owns (3) 23 Tavern (3) 24 Rabbit (3) 26 Child (3) 33 Footwear (4) 34 Shortened (8) 35 Squirm (3) 36 Hatred (6)

DOWN 2 Lariat (5) 3 Exclude (4) 4 Track (5) 5 Rate (5) 6 Sensible (4) 7 Avoid (5) 10 Pass (5) 11 Swim (5) 12 Clutch (5) 13 Tree (5) 14 Weird (5) 15 Permit (5) 16 Handle (5) 25 Alternative (5) 27 Custom (5) 28 Furze (5) 30 Open (5) 31 Aperture (4) 32 Cheese (4)

YESTERDAY'S SOLUTIONS ACROSS: 1, Chic 4, Bet 6, Left 8, Avenue 9, Astute 10, Fly 12, Scour 14, Reign 15, Mural 18, Delete 20, Opened 24, Deter 26, Spear 28, Realm 30, Sty 32, Permit 33, Estate 34, Used 35, Mop 36, Dark.

DOWN: 2, Havoc 3, Consume 4, Beef 5, Tray 6, Lithe 7, Fatigue 11, Lea 12, Sad 13, Rut 16, Red 17, Lot 19, Express 21, Per 22, Erected 23, Dim 25, Eft 27, Aimed 29, Later 30, Stem 31, Yelp.

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