IMF to scrutinise FG's 2016 budget

...towards a better life for the people

ONLINE | www.vanguardngr.com

**

N150

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 6, 2016

2016: States increase expenditure 6&14

by N700bn

Ajimobi, Olubadan face-off:

Gov soft-pedals, to recognise 9 Ibadan high chiefs

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IMF to scrutinise FG's 2016 budget •Says with right policies, Nigeria has no reason to borrow See story on Page 8

$2.1bn arms probe: PDP's Olisa Metuh spends first night in EFCC cell 16 BELLO, SON DOCKED— Former Minister of Defence and former Acting Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Mohammed Bello Halilu on wheelchair at the Federal High Court, Abuja, yesterday, over alleged money laundering involving about N300m. Right: His son, Abba Mohammed Bello,also facing charges at the court being escorted by EFCC operatives.

Photos: Gbemiga Olamikan.

Igbo traders bemoan Buhari’s economic policies, harsh business environment See Inside C M Y K

COLUMNISTS:

Alleged N300m fraud: EFCC docks ex-PDP chairman, Bello, son P.17 TABIA PRINCEWILL

P.20

P.19

DEAR

ROTIMI

BUNM

FASAN

Is a good dictatorship Pregnant better than a corrupt for my best democracy? friend's brother

Prophecies, Nigerians and 2016?

•P.10

Wife of Biafra leader, Nnamdi Kanu gives birth to baby boy •P.16

Mr & Mrs

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6—Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 6, 2016

POCKET CARTOON

BUHARI RECEIVES IMF BOSS— From left: Vice President Yemi Osinbajo; President Muhammadu Buhari; the IMF Managing Director, Christine Lagarde and the CBN Governor, Godwin Emefiele as the President received the IMF MD at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, yesterday. Photo: Abayomi Adeshida.

2016: States increase expenditure by N700bn •Lagos, C’River, 10 others account for 50% of state budgets •States may face difficulty in funding their budgets —Utomi

By Emeka Anaeto, Economy Editor & Clifford Ndujihe, Deputy Political Editor

L

AGOS—INSPITE of the dwindling economic fortunes of the country and projected drop in revenue accruals from the Federation Account the cumulative financial figures of state governments have shown that about 12 states have effected huge increases in expenditure totalling N697 billion in their 2016 budget with economy experts saying they will run into funding

crises.

Though 20 states reduced their figures the massive increases in the 12 states ensured that cumulative figure of N5.388 billion surpassed 2015 figure of N5.267.

The Federal Government and the 32 states that have announced their budgets, collectively, will spend N11.4 trillion this year compared to the N10.3 trillion they spent in 2015 (see table).

In the breakdown of their 2016 budgets sent to their various legislatures as at last week, some of

IT'S UP TO YOU

BY AYO ADIO

N

EVER outsource your responsibility to God, in you he placed all the tool kits to enable you succeed. Get up and make it happen. It's up to you.

TAKE HEART

BY ELLA RANDLE

Those who get ahead in life do so because they dare to be different— Take Heart Quotes

W

E do the best we can to make our world beautiful, as everyday people surviving in an everyday world, people are just like the flowers in the fields, full of diversity but uniquely beautiful.

Every so often one or a small family group dares to reach for the stars, growing taller than the surrounding flowers, this act alone makes them shine more brightly, but also subject them to the harsher environment of being against the wind, and other elements. Yet they brave the challenges to reach for more sunlight.

SAYINGS OF OUR PEOPLE Why should a ram remain at a party even after hearing that the meat has been axhausted?

the 12 states expanded their expenditure by over 100 per cent.

The states are Cross River which jumped to N350 billion from N127.85 billion, an over 173 per cent increase followed by Oyo state jumping by over 113 per cent to N165.1 billion from N77.1 billion last year.

Other states with huge jump in expenditure

estimates include Sokoto with over 55 per cent jump to N174.5 billion against N112.5 billion last year, Jigawa with 35 per cent jump to N137.2 billion from N101.6 billion, Lagos with over 35 per cent jump to N662.6 billion from N489.6 billion and Kano with over 30 per cent raise to N275 billion from N210.7 billion.

Five other states recorded significant increases include Adamawa with over 19 per cent increase, Niger and Yobe states with over 10 per cent increases each and Delta and Ebonyi with about five per cent increases each, while Kwara has a marginal two per cent increase in its expenditure plan.

Altogether, the 12 states that declared higher figures will spend N2.531 trillion this year as opposed to the N1.834 trillion they spent in 2015.

In essence, in 2016, they will spend N696.984 billion more than they did last year.

The developments are coming on the heels of a similar significant jump in the expenditure plan of the Federal Government in 2016 Appropriation Bill showing over 20 per cent jump to N6.1 trillion from N5.1 trillion in 2015.

While the Federal Government indicated its intention to bridge the expected funding gap through internal and external borrowings, the affected states did not

give any such indication except that they intend to increase their internally generated revenue, IGR, which over the years have consistently fallen short of projections.

Also most of the states are already indebted to banks so much that they can no longer borrow given the debt management option already in place for them.

Some other states, however, slashed their expenditures, apparently reflecting the gloomy revenue prospect of the current fiscal year.

The states include Abia, Akwa-Ibom, Anambra, Benue, Borno, Edo, Ekiti, Enugu, Gombe, Imo, Kaduna, Katsina, Kebbi, Kogi, Nasarawa, Ogun, Osun, Plateau, Rivers and Taraba.

The trend in expenditure increases and reductions cut across party lines as both APC and PDP states were involved in both.

FEDERAL AND STATE GOVTS 2016 BUDGET States (N Bn) Abia Adamawa Akwa Ibom Anambra Benue Borno Cross River Delta Ebonyi Edo Ekiti Enugu Gombe Imo Jigawa Kaduna Kano Katsina Kebbi Kogi Kwara Lagos Nasarawa Niger Ogun Osun Oyo Plateau Rivers Sokoto Taraba Yobe Sub total(N Trn) FGN (NTrn) TOTAL (N Trn)

2016 96.7 120.127 426 101.4 133.394 155.735 350 265.6 101.155 111.5 67.044 85.179 76.5 102.208 137.23 171.7 275 111.4 107 75 116.164 662.588 77.917 74.7 200.201 150.7 165.1 154.073 307 174.39 68.8 88.93 5.308 6.08 11.388

2015 102.4 100.890 484 164.496 135.3 212.777 127.85 252.943 96.52 127.01 80.78 96.735 88.9 143.318 101.650 200.7 210.7 115.2 116.8 88.6 114.664 489.6 107.905 68.7 210.3 201.7 77.16 215.466 443.055 112.5 97.3 80.6 5.267 5.066 10.333

% Diff Capital 5.6* 37.8 (39.09%) 19.1 60.071(50.01%) 11.98* 245 (57.51%) 38.36* 52.8 (52.07%) 1.4* 67.4 (50.52%) 26.8* 104 (66.78%) 173.8 294 (84%) 5.0 112.444 (42.34%) 4.8 62.397 (61.69%) 12.2* 58.9 (52.83%) 20.48* 24.935(37.19%) 11.95* 43.736 (51.35%) 13.95* 34.443 (45.02%) 28.68* 41.110 (40.22%) 35 71.31 (51.96%) 14.45* 109.3 (63.66%) 30.52 192 (69.82%) 3.3* 72.7 (65.26%) 8.39* 73 (68.22%) 15.35* 29.6 (39.47%) 1.31 57.5 (49.50%) 35.33 383.678 (57.91%) 27.79* 35.198 (47.12%) 8.73* 35.198 (47.12%) 4.80* 99.291(49.60%) 25.29* 67.984(45.11%) 113.97 72.73(44%) 28.49* 78.954 (51.25%) 30.71* 187 (60.91%) 55.01 123.392 (70.76%) 29.29* 26 (37.79%) 10.35 41.14 (46.26%) 2.30 2.544 (47.93%) 20.02 1.846 (30.36%) 10.21 4.839 (42.49%)

NB: * Indicates lower budget than 2015

Recurrent 58.9 60.056 92.964 48.6 65.9 51 56 153.16 38.758 52.6 42.11 41.795 42.565 76.074 62.92 62.4 83 38.7 34 45.3 48.1 278.91 39.502 39.502 9.91 82.744 92.37 75.019 120 50.553 42.7 47.79 2.764 4.23 6.450

States that are yet to present their 2016 budget proposals are Bauchi, Bayelsa, Ondo and Zamfara states.

The prevailing free fall of crude oil price, which as of yesterday was $37.2 per barrel is already hurting Nigeria’s fiscal plan as the existing revenue projections at $38 per barrel is already hitting a shortfall.

A decline last year accounted for why many states went for a bailout from the Federal Government to pay their workers salary arrears late last year and they are still owing.

Utomi, Akinwunmi speak

Reacting to the expansionary budgetary positions of the states, a leading economist and one-time presidential aspirant, Professor Pat Utomi, told Vanguard: "I am assuming they are either hoping to borrow, but who will lend to states?

"They are either hoping to increase IGR, also likely to be challenged as businesses restructure in the face of difficult access to foreign exchange, or they are hoping for a future bail out. Otherwise it may just be that the budgets are not realistic.

"My hope is that the current challenges may encourage us to rethink how we budget and the discipline of the budget process. What the states need at a time of uncertainty with swinging revenue flow is repetitive budgeting or scenario budgeting".

Speaking to Vanguard on the 2016 fiscal exposures of the states the Chief Economist at FSDH Merchant Bank Limited, Mr Ayodele Akinwunmi, attributed the increases in the expenditure plan of the states to their push for capital expenditure as a way of stimulating their states’ economy. But he also warns that the development may have adverse effect on their ability to maintain their

Continues on Page 14

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8—Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 6, 2016

By Emeka Anaeto, Economy Editor & Levinus Nwabughiogu

“With that I am going to have more discussions with the finance minister, with Governor of Central Bank. We will be discussing issue of fiscal discipline, financing monetary policies and the degree of flexibility, all that with the fact that Nigeria with a vibrant large economy still has to deal with poor people, a lot of inequality and those two components should certainly be the drivers of reforms, whether it is looking at subsidies and how they are structured and how they can be phased out, whether it is monetary policy and the flexibility needed and knowing what effect it has on the poor, all, of those are ambitions that we could quickly recognize and support."

A

BUJA — THERE were indications that the 2016 Appropriation Bill may be subjected to further scrutiny and amendments by the International Monetary Fund, IMF, despite being already presented to the National Assembly for legislative action.

Managing Director of IMF, Ms Christine Lagarde, who is visiting Nigeria, told newsmen in Abuja, yesterday, that the multilateral financial institution would be discussing the budget next week with Nigerian officials.

Lagarde responding to question on the 2016 budget said: "A team of economists is going to come here (Nigeria) next week to review and audit (the bill) and have a good discussion with the government authorities to really assess whether the financing is in place, whether the debt is sustainable, whether the borrowing costs are sensible and what strategy must be put in place in order to address challenges going forward.”

The IMF boss, who held meetings with the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN; Finance Minister, Mrs. Kemi Adeosun, as well as a closed door sessions with President Muhammadu Buhari and Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, had refused to comment directly on the content of the 2016 Appropriation Bill because there are procedures at the IMF that must be followed.

She noted that she will continue to have discussions with Nigeria’s Finance Minister and CBN Governor on issues of fiscal discipline, financing, monetary policies and the degree of flexibility, because despite “Nigeria being a vibrant and large economy still has to deal with a lot of poor people with a lot of inequality. Those two components should certainly always be the drivers of reforms, whether it is looking at subsidies, how they are structured and how they can be faced out.”

Don't strangulate poor Nigerians

Following the dwindling oil prices that have apparently affected the national income of most countries, the IMF boss warned the Federal Government not to strangulate poor Nigerians with rigid economic policies.

She also stated that it was concerned by the condition of teeming population of poor Nigerians who would be affected by the rigidity of policies, stressing the need to inject fiscal discipline in the policy formulations.

According to Lagarde, her mission to Nigeria was not connected to the negotiations of any loan with any kind of conditionalities but to have discussion on the economic reforms and objectives of the present government.

A lot has changed in Nigeria

BRIEFING: From left, Director of African Affairs, International Monetary Fund (IMF), Seyeh Antoinette; Managing Director of IMF, Christine Lagarde, and Minister of Finance, Mrs Kemi Adeosun, addressing a news conference after a meeting of the IMF boss with President Muhammadu Buhari at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, yesterday. Photo: NAN.

IMF to scrutinise FG's 2016 budget—Lagarde Says she is not in Nigeria to negotiate loan Notes with right policies, Nigeria has no reason to borrow Backs Buhari's fight against corruption Ministers'll give account of funds —Buhari Recalling the tremendous progress Nigeria has made in its democratic process, Lagarde said a lot had changed in the country since she last visited four years ago.

She said: “I was in Nigeria four years ago and in four years, many things have changed.

That has been the topic of our discussions with President Buhari and his team. Looking back four years ago, massive democratic change has occurred in this country peacefully.

Nigeria has become the largest economy in Africa, certainly the most populated and with a very attractive market.

“But things have changed in a more complicated way in the sense that the source of revenue to the government of Nigeria which was predominantly oil has seen its price divided by more than half and the financing cost around are beginning to rise if only because the economic situation in the United States has improved and interest rates will begin to rise. Added to which emerging countries economies are decelerating their growth.

Not here to negotiate loan

“First, let me make it clear that I’m not here nor is my team in this country to negotiate a loan with conditionalities. We are not into programme negotiations and frankly at this point in time, given the determination, resilience displayed by the President and his team, I don’t see why an IMF programme will

be needed. So, of course, discipline is going to be needed, of course, implementation is going to be key for the objectives and the ambitions to serve the country well, in order for it to be actually sustainable.

“We believe that with very clear primary ambition to support the poor people of Nigeria, there could be added flexibility in the monetary policy, particularly if as we think, the price of oil is likely to be possibly low for longer, because clearly the authorities should not deplete the reserves of the country, simply because of rules that will be exceedingly rigid.

I’m not suggesting that but that rigidity be totally removed but some degree of flexibility will be enough.

“We have excellent discussions with Buhari and we discussed the challenges ahead stemming from oil price reduction. The necessity to apply fiscal discipline and the need to also respond to the population needs while addressing the Medium Term specifics of improving the competitiveness of Nigeria and yet also focusing on the short term fiscal situation which requires that revenue sources be identified in order to compensate the shortfall resulting from oil price decline.

“Oil is not the major contributor to the Nigerian GDP, it is only about 40 per cent but it is a big source of revenue for the government.

To discuss budget next week

“We discussed with the President, Vice President and the Minister of Finance and Minister of Budget how more efficiency, more transparency, better accountability, enlarging the base of revenue could actually contribute to sound budget going forward.

“It is not for me here and now to actually approve or comment on the budget because we have procedures in the IMF under which a team of economists is going to come next week actually to do what we call the Article 4 which is to review....good discussion with partners, IMF on one hand, country’s authorities on the other hand to really access whether financing is in place, whether the debt is sustainable, whether the borrowing cost are sensible and what strategy put in place in order to address challenges going forward.

On war against corruption

“But what I certainly mentioned to Mr. President was that his fight and his determination to fight corruption and his determination to bring about transparency and accountability at all levels of the economy are very important agenda item and very ambitious goal that needed to be deliberated upon which he, himself is definitely committed to as he indicated this morning and as he inspires his team members.

IMF backs Buhari's war against corruption The IMF MD, who was flanked by the Minister of Finance, Mrs Kemi Adeosun, at the beefing also lauded the anti-corruption fight of President Buhari, saying that the course would engender the needed transparency and accountability in the financial system of the country.

“But what I certainly mentioned to Mr. President was that his fight and his determination to fight corruption and his determination to bring about transparency and accountability at all levels of the economy are very important agenda item and very ambitious goal that needed to be deliberated upon which he, himself is definitely committed to as he indicated this morning and as he inspires his team members,” she said.

Ministers'll give accounts of funds —Buhari

Meanwhile, President Buhari has said that his ministers will render accurate account of every kobo they spent in their respective ministries.

He also said that his administration will enforce regulations to stop financial leakages and adopt global best practices in generating more revenue to mitigate the effect of dwindling oil prices on the Nigerian economy.

The president, who gave the assurance when he received the IMF boss at the Presidential Villa said that his administration will enforce greater discipline, probity and accountability in all revenue generating agencies of the Federal Government.

He said: “We have just come out of budget discussions after many weeks of taking into consideration the many needs of the country, and the down turn of the economy with falling oil prices and the negative economic forecasts.

“We are working very hard and with the budget as our way forward, we will do our best to ensure that our country survives the current economic downturn.

“We have also told all heads of Ministries, Departments and Agencies of government that on our watch, they will fully account for all funds that get into their coffers.”

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10—Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 6, 2016

By Ikechukwu Nnochiri

A

BUJA — THE Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, yesterday, docked former Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Dr. Haliru Bello, before a Federal High Court sitting in Abuja.

Bello, a one-time Minister of Defence, was arraigned alongside his son, Abba, on a four-count criminal charge bordering on alleged N300 million fraud.

Whereas Bello’s son was charged as the first accused person, a firm, BAM Projects and Properties Limited, which the EFCC said was used to perpetuate the fraud, was cited as the 2nd accused person in the matter.

The anti-graft agency alleged that the accused persons, through the firm, withdrew N300 million from an account the Office of the National Security Adviser, ONSA, operated with the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN. The fund was said to have been transferred to the accused persons by the embattled former National Security Adviser, NSA, Col. Sambo Dasuki (retd), 11 days to the 2015 presidential election.

Brought to court in ambulance Meanwhile, the ex-PDP boss, who was brought to court yesterday in an ambulance, took his plea in a wheelchair.

The defendants pleaded not guilty to the four-count charge dated December 23 but amended on December 30, 2015, even as their lawyers, yesterday, prayed the court to okay their release on bail.

Both father and son predicated their separate bail applications on sections 162 and 165(1) of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, 2015, as well as sections 35 and 36(5) (6) of the 1999 Constitution, as amended.

They told the court, yesterday, that they were ready to answer to the charges against them.

Bail applications Specifically, the former PDP boss, through his lawyer, Mr. Abdulaziz Ibrahim, urged the court to grant him bail on self recognition.

Bello told the court that he was still recuperating from a spinal cord surgery he had in the United Kingdom, stressing that he was previously granted administrative bail by the EFCC. Besides, Bello tendered five exhibits in support of his bail motion, among which included three photographs he took while undergoing surgery.

He also tendered medical report issued to him by the hospital in the UK, as well as a letter his lawyer wrote to the

BIRTHDAY: The celebrant, Prof. Biodun Jeyifo (left); Prof. Wole Soyinka and Prof. John Pepper Clark at 70th birthday of Biodun Jeyifo at the University of Ibadan, yesterday. Photo: Shola Oyelese.

Alleged N300m fraud: EFCC docks ex-PDP boss, Bello, son We’re ready for trial, Bello, son tell court Brought to court in ambulance, took plea in wheelchair Judge determines bail applications tomorrow EFCC, which indicated his willingness to surrender himself for investigation.

According to Bello’s lawyer, “the important factor which your lordship is enjoined to consider in granting or refusing bail is the availability of the accused person to stand his trial.

“Here is the 3rd defendant who just had a critical spinal cord surgery in the UK. Immediately after the surgery, he was summoned by the EFCC. With the wound from the surgery still fresh, my client had to be rushed to another hospital in Nigeria.

“He was brought to this court this morning straight from his hospital bed in an ambulance. Is this the kind of person that can take a flight if granted bail? The answer is no.

“Health condition is a serious factor to be considered.

The 3rd defendant is over 70 years old, an elder statesman who has served this country meritoriously in various capacities.

“My lord, he is not only a former Minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, but also former chairman of one of the biggest political parties in Africa.

“We pray this court to grant him bail on self recognition or in the alternative, grant him bail in the most liberal terms. He has responsible persons that are ready to stand surety for him.”

Similarly, his son, Abba, through his lawyer, Mr. O.

Osoka, also prayed the court to grant him bail on health ground.

He tendered an order made by another court headed by Justice Okeke, which he said okayed his release on bail.

More so, the accused persons contended that the charge against them are ordinarily bailable.

While Bello’s bail request was dated December 31, his son filed his motion December 30, 2015.

EFCC opposes bail applications Meantime, the EFCC, via two separate counteraffidavits that were deposed to by one of its detectives, Mr. Mohammed Goji, yesterday, opposed the release of the accused persons on bail.

EFCC lawyer, Mr. Aliyu Yusuf, argued that the accused persons did not place sufficient evidence to warrant the court to exercise its discretion in their favour.

The prosecution urged the court to consider the severity of the charge which it said attracts a maximum of 14 years imprisonment, as well as the proof of evidence against the accused persons, and deny them bail.

It argued that neither Bello nor his son adduced any evidence to show that they would not get proper medical attention from the prison hospital.

EFCC maintained that the accused persons, if released, have the capacity to interfere

with the cause of justice.

He said: “We submit that this court has discretion to either grant or refuse bail.

That discretion must be exercised judicially and judiciously.

“Looking at the evidence before this court, the defendant/applicants have not placed sufficient materials to warrant the exercise of discretion in their favour. The accused persons are facing a very serious offence.

“On the whole, we urge, my lord, to refuse the bail application and invoke section 19(2b) of the EFCC Act, 2004, and order accelerated hearing of this case.”

After listening to all the parties yesterday, Justice Mohammed, reserved ruling on the matter till tomorrow.

While remanding the son in prison custody, Justice Mohammed held that since it was not in doubt that Bello was brought to court from his hospital bed, “the 3rd accused is hereby put under the supervision of the Inspector General of Police pending the determination of his bail application.”

Justice Mohammed ordered the chief registrar of the court to immediately draw the attention of the IGP to the court order.

Shortly after the ruling yesterday, the former Chairman was conveyed back to the hospital in an ambulance belonging to Abuja clinics.

FG to establish interministerial committee to fast-track NNPC reforms

By Levinus Nwabughiogu

A

BUJA — PRESIDENT Muhammadu Buhari has said that his administration would soon establish an inter-ministerial committee to ensure the speedy reform of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC. The President stated this at a meeting with the Chief Executive Officer of the International Finance Corporation (IFC), Jin-Yong Cai, at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, yesterday.

According to the President, the re-organisation of the NNPC was extremely necessary due to alleged monumental corruption and abuse of its present structure.

The President added that his government was determined to maximize income from every source of revenue as a further imperative for reforming the NNPC, stressing that the national revenue needed a boost to effectively implement its programme of change and significantly improve the living conditions of Nigerians.

Also speaking, Mr. Jin-Yong Cai, who is also the Vice President of the IFC, stated that proper reformation and reorganisation of NNPC could make it Africa’s largest company.

“You have brought monumental changes since you got to power. You have brought in strong leadership and Nigeria has the opportunity under you to become highly reputable."

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Bayelsa supplementary poll: Be neutral, PDP tells Buhari ...warns APC, INEC against rigging A

By Henry Umoru

BUJA—AHEAD of Saturday’s Bayelsa State governorship run-off election in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area, the national leadership of Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, has asked President Muhammadu Buhari to steer clear of the election by remaining neutral.

The PDP has however, vowed to rally its formation in the state and particularly Southern Ijaw council, to use all means necessary in a democracy to resist any move by the All Progressives Congress, APC, to rig the election.

In a statement by PDP National Publicity Secretary, Chief Olisa Metuh, the party said that it has since been made aware of plots by the APC to use compromised security operatives and Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, officials to attempt to produce fictitious votes and declare itself winner, but vowed that any such unholy bid would be greeted with vehement resistance and dire consequences.

Metuh, who reiterated that Southern Ijaw was a wellknown PDP stronghold, said it would never accept any result that did not reflect the will of the people.

He said: “We issue this statement as direct notice to the APC and their compromised INEC, military and other security operatives who have been stationed to ostensibly assist to produce fictitious votes with which the APC intends to declare itself winner.

“Let it be known to all that the PDP is fully mobilized for Saturday ’s supplementary election. Our members across Southern Ijaw have been stationed in every polling unit, every collation centre and every exit and entry point

in the area, and have been directed to use all means available in a democracy to stop the APC in its trail.

“Southern Ijaw council is a well-known stronghold of the PDP and we will not in any way accept anything short of free, fair and credible election, abundantly reflecting the will of the people.

“Anything to the contrary will attract terrible consequences. We restate our resolve that never again will the PDP allow itself to be manipulated out in any

election at any level, no matter the intimidation by the APC-led administration.

“Consequent upon our loss of confidence in INEC and security agencies, we hereby make public our instruction to our members and supporters not to leave the polling area after casting their votes but to remain alert within the distance provided by law and go ahead to use all means necessary to defend and protect their votes, should there be any attempt by anybody to rig the process.”

....As LG Chair denies alleged anti-Dickson activities

By Samuel Oyadongha

Y

ENAGOA—CHAIRMAN of Southern Ijaw Local Government Area, Bayelsa State, Elder Remember Ogbe, has denied report that he was involved in alleged activities against the re-election of Governor Seriake Dickson and planning to dump the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, for All Progressives Congress, APC, in the state.

Ogbe, who was reported to have fallen out of favour with the governor in the wake of the

botched December 6 governorship poll in the council and planning to defect to the APC, described the claims as false, insisting that he remains a loyal member of the PDP in the state.

The Southern Ijaw council boss, in an interview, yesterday, in Yenagoa, described the allegation as a new attempt by some members of the PDP in the council to divide the party ahead of the Saturday re-run election in the area.

“The claim is false and

nothing of such happened.

First, after the December 5 election, they claimed the governor beat me up with a chair and injured me.

Governor Dickson is a friend and not a political foe. He is a man that has the zeal as a true friend and I can never betray him,” he said.

Ogbe noted that due to the support enjoyed from the administration of Governor Dickson, the council under him has brought dividend of democracy to the people of the area.

Credible election, the greatest change Nigerians need —Mimiko

Y

By Samuel Oyadongha ENAGOA—ONDO State governor and

Chairman of Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Governors Forum, Chief Olusegun Mimiko,

yesterday, challenged President Muhammadu Buhari and other relevant agencies of government to ensure that elections in the country were conducted in a free and fair manner.

He said the only change needed from the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, was a free, fair and credible election.

Governor Mimiko stated this when he paid a private visit to his Bayelsa State counterpart, Seriake Dickson, at Government House, Yenagoa.

Doctors, dentists protest colleague's kidnap in Delta

By Festus Ahon

A

SABA— DELTA State chapter of Medical and Dental Consultants Association of Nigeria, MDCAN, and the Association of Resident Doctors, ARD, Delta State University Teaching Hospital, DELSUTH, yesterday, staged a peaceful protest against the kidnap of one of their colleagues, Dr. Obiabo Yahaya.

The doctors, who marched to the state Government House in Asaba in white attires, decried the kidnap of their colleague, lamenting that they have become endangered species in the hands of kidnappers following the kidnap of Dr. Yahaya, a Neurologist, who was abducted on December 29, 2015.

In its protest letter read by MDCAN Vice Chairman, Dr. Ejiroghene Umuerri, the association urged the state government and security agents to ensure the release of their colleague within the next 24 hours.

The letter which read in part, said: “It is with a heavy heart that we make this submission that kidnapping in Delta State and indeed Nigeria has become a very lucrative business with huge financial returns and little risk as the kidnappers are hardly apprehended while the victims' families are left with no option than to pay ransom in order to secure the safe release of their loved ones.

“The kidnappers collect their ransom and move to the next victim certain that they would not be caught and the ransom demanded must be paid."

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 6, 2016—13

Edo 2016: Osagie faults Oshiomhole's alleged endorsement of Obaseki

By Simon Ebegbulem

B

ENIN—FORMER Minority Whip of the House of Representatives, Mr Samson Osagie, has said that it was wrong for Governor Adams Oshiomhole to endorse Mr Godwin Obaseki ahead of the 2016 governorship election, warning that the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, may lose the governorship election if a level playing field was not provided for them.

He said: “This fear is palpable among APC members and some of the party’s apologists across the state. I have no reason to deny that same exists, especially as one of the latest victims of a mismanaged electoral process in the 2015 general election by the ruling APC. The party mismanaged that election when candidates who won primaries particularly in the Ovia axis of the Edo South senatorial district were denied their tickets and the lack of planning and preparations by the party for the election.

“This year's governorship election is going to be the true test of Governor Oshiomhole’s capacity to sustain his party’s hold on power in the state or lack of it. There is no doubt that he is already on the way to causing the party irreparable damage by the way things are

going in the party just now.

This position is underscored by the deliberate attempt and action of those who hold the reins of authority in the state to label some aspirants and their supporters as enemies of the governor who must be dealt with while others must be submerged politically, all in a bid to secure ticket for an anointed candidate who by

himself does not understand the ensuing dynamics of the state politics particularly in Edo South.

“It’s almost forgotten by those who have constituted a cabal around the governor and himself that there is going to be an election after the primaries and one wonders whether the bad blood that is being encouraged and fuelled

by the sycophants around the governor just now will deliver the votes when the real election comes sometime in July.

“The governor must know and realize quickly that he is not going to be on the ballot and as such he must be mindful not to become a campaign director to any aspirant who seeks to govern Edo people at least before the primaries."

VISIT: His Royal Majesty, the Asagba of Asaba, Obi Prof. Chike Edozie (left) and the Director General, Delta State Capital Territory Development Agency, Chief Clement Ofuani, when the DG visited the Asagba to brief him on the developmental plans by the agency for the state capital in his palace in Asaba, yesterday. Photo: Henry Unini.

Ijaw group threatens to disrupt crude oil supply to Warri Refinery

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By Emma Amaize

SABA—THE Ijaw Oil Producing and Pipeline Communities in Warri and Environs, IOPPCWE, Delta State, yesterday, threatened that it would halt the flow of crude oil from Ijaw locations to Warri Refining and Petrochemical Company, WRPC, if the company refuses to recall its kinsmen fired lately and employ more Ijaws in the ongoing recruitment of new workers.

The group, in a statement by its coordinator, Mr. Anthony Zikorebai, said: “We wish to warn that if Ijaw people who were sacked like other neighbouring communities’ workers are not recalled and employed in the ongoing recruitment of new workers, crude oil produced in Ijaw communities would no longer be allowed to be piped to the Warri Refinery.

“The Ijaw Oil Producing and Pipeline Communities in Warri and Environs are calling on the management of WRPC, especially the acting Managing Director of the WRPC, Mr. Adewale Solomon, to stop the discrimination and marginalization of Ijaw people in respect of retrenchment and recruitment of staff and contract opportunities.

“People of Ijaw origin were deliberately and unfairly sacked in the last retrenchment and omitted in the recall of some sacked staff and new recruitment that is ongoing despite the fact that the Ijaw

communities are substantial stakeholders in the affairs of the Warri Refinery.

“The Warri Refinery survives on the crude oil produce in some Ijaw communities and piped again through Ijaw

communities to the Warri Refinery for its refining and other purposes. Hence, it is unfair and discriminatory for the management of Warri Refinery to subject Ijaw people to unfair treatment."

Tompolo: Ex-militants warn against attempt on whistle blower’s life

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X-MILITANTS in the Niger Delta and Ijaw youths have warned that should anything happens to the man that called attention to alleged diversion of money meant for the acquisition of land for Nigerian Maritime University at Okerenkoko, Chief Micheal Johnny, the Ijaw traditional rulers and leaders know those to hold responsible.

The ex-militants at a briefing in Yanagoa, Bayelsa State, yesterday, said Johnny ’s stance on the alleged diversion was not an offence for which his life should be threatened, adding, “The God of truth would protect him.

“We are aware of threats to

Johnny ’s life, and we are calling on those plotting such to have a rethink because the consequence

could be disastrous and regrettable, as killing a fellow human being is an offence before God and the law."

2016: Prophecy of doom against Nigeria'll fail —Onuesoke

A

S the world celebrates the New Year coupled with the usual habit of Nigerian clerics forecasting doom for the country, a Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, chieftain, Chief Sunny Onuesoke, has said that those prophesying doom for the country in 2016 will fail.

Onuesoke, at his country home in Agbarha- Otor, Ughelli North Local Government Area, Delta State, when he hosted some

key members of PDP in his ward to a dinner, wondered how long Nigerians would continue to listen to prophets of doom.

He said that while other countries were planning on how to make it in 2016, Nigerian clerics were busy prophesying doom every year, adding that Nigeria had been taken hostage by liars and con men who parade themselves as politicians and prophets.

Lawyer demands Edo Attorney General's resignation

By Gabriel Enogholase

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ENIN—A Beninbased lawyer, Mr. Olayiwola Afolabi has called for the resignation of the Edo State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Henry Idahagbon, over the inability of the state government to pay eight months salary arrears of judiciary workers in the state.

He also said that Magistrates were being owed three months arrears of salaries.

He called for autonomy for the Judiciary in Edo State to enable that arm of government to function effectively as in Anambra and Delta States whose judiciary enjoy autonomy.

Afolabi, who yesterday in Benin, staged a one-man protest over the issue, carpeted the Edo State chapter of the Nigerian Labour Congress, NLC, for claiming that the state government was not owing any of its civil servants.

He said, “I am calling on the Attorney General of Edo State and all legal practitioners in the state government’s employment to resign their positions because the governmrnt has failed workers in the area of salaries, especially during the Christmas and New Year.

“In fact, a woman attached to High Court 4, simply called Justina, died because she could not afford to pay her medical bills. I call on the AG to resign from office because this is the first time in the history of the state that judiciary workers are being owed and nobody is saying anything."

Police ban protests, public processions in Delta

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By Akpokona Omafuaire

ARRI—TO ensure public safety, Delta State Police Command, yesterday, banned all forms of street protests and processions, insisting that special permission must be sought should the need arise.

The order was given in a statement by Mrs Celestina Kalu, Police Public Relations Officer in the state.

Kalu warned that the ban takes immediate effect across the state, adding that a breach of the order would be met with full measure of the extant law.

14—Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 6, 2016

2016: States increase expenditure by N700bn Continues from Page 6 current level of workforce except if they plan to retrench, which would also create problems with the labour unions.

Some states are already indicating the possibility of a downward review of the minimum wage, blaming it on revenue decline.

More allocation to recurrent expenditure

As usual, most of the governments have also allocated lower sums to capital expenditure (provision of infrastructure and amenities among others). Collectively, the Federal Government and the 32 state governments that have announced their budgets will spend N4.839 trillion or 43 per cent of their budgets on capital expenditure while spending N6.450 trillion (57 per cent) on recurrent expenditure (salaries, emoluments of public

servants and political office holders, running costs, among others).

Last year, the governments allocated 47.63 per cent of their budgets to capital expenditure and 52.37 per cent to recurrent expenditure.

This year, the Federal Government allocated 30.36 per cent of its budget to capital expenditure as opposed to the 14.6 per cent it did in 2015.

High recurrent project states

Among the states, Ekiti (37.19 per cent) is worse off in terms of allocation to capital projects. It is followed by Taraba (37.79 per cent), Abia (39.09 per cent) and Kogi (39.47 per cent).

Pro-capital project states

States that allocated hefty sums to capital projects are Cross River (84 per cent), Sokoto (70.76 [per cent), Kano (69.82 per cent), Kebbi (68.22 per cent), Borno

(66.78 per cent), Katsina (65.26 per cent), Kaduna (63.66 per cent), Ebonyi (61.69 per cent) and Rivers (60.91 per cent).

We will stimulate the economy – Buhari

While presenting the budget to a joint session of the National Assembly, President Muhammadu Buhari said the proposal, the first by his government, "seeks to stimulate the economy, making it more competitive by focusing on infrastructural development; delivering inclusive growth; and prioritizing the welfare of Nigerians. We believe that this budget, while helping industry, commerce and investment to pick up, will as a matter of urgency, address the immediate problems of youth unemployment and the terrible living conditions of the extremely poor and vulnerable Nigerians."

Lagos to borrow from capital market, more tax bullish

Lagos State, according

to Mustapha Akinkunmi, the commissioner for finance, will be approaching the bond market to raise N43 billion to partly fund the budget. On the other hand, the chairman of Lagos State Internal Revenue Service, LIRS, Olufolarin Ogunsanwo said the government might be bully about tax collections using the instrumentally of the law.

Cross River budget of deep vision

The Governor of Cross River State, Ben Ayade, who christened the N350 billion proposal, of which N294 billion would be expended on capital projects as “Budget of Deep Vision”, said the increment was as a result of expected funds from Foreign Direct Investments and support for his signature projects by the Federal Government, adding that he would make judicious use of the available resources for the good of the people.

We want to live

within our means – Fayose

Unarguably, Ekiti State with N67.04 billion proposal is the least spending state in 2016.

Governor, Ayo Fayose, who christened the 2016 appropriation bill as "budget of reality" and promised that 10,000 indigent citizens across the state would be paid N5,000 monthly from this month, said the miserly budget was informed by the desire to live within the means of the state and achievable estimate rather than decorate the budget with unrealistic figures.

He said 39 per cent of the budget would be funded by the revenue from the Federal allocation accounts while the internally generated revenue source is expected to fund 15 per cent of the budget.

Sokoto’s people budget

Speaking on why he is allocating over 70 per cent of the N174.39 billion Sokoto State 2016 budget to capital projects, Governor Aminu Tambuwal, who described the proposal as "Peoples’ budget", said it represents

the government’s overall strategy to meet the needs and yearnings of its citizens.

“The policy thrust of the Budget is to ensure sustainable development of the State by focusing on the critical sectors of investment in Education, Agriculture, Health, Environment Solid Minerals and Rural Development.”

Anambra’s productivity and efficiency budget In Anambra, Governor Willie Obiano, who is one of the few governors who announced lower budgets than they had last year and allocated the larger chunk of it to capital projects, tagged the N101.4 billion proposal as “Budget for efficiency, optimisation, productivity and Job creation.”

The governor projected the capital expenditure at N52.8 billion while the recurrent expenditure was pegged at N48.6 billion.

The figures imply a Capital to Recurrent Expenditure ratio of 52:48 as against 67:33 in the current year.

Vanguard, WEDNES DAY WEDNESDAY DAY, JANUARY 6, 2016 — 15

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16—Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 6, 2016

$2.1bn arms cash: Olisa Metuh spends first night in EFCC cell over N1.4bn traced to coy

By Soni Daniel, Northern Region Editor

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HE ONGOING investigation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has landed the spokesman of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Chief Olisa Metuh, in the Commission’s cell in Abuja.

Metuh, who was arrested by four operatives of the anti-graft agency from his Abuja home, spent the first night with his interrogators at the headquarters of the EFCC, answering questions on how the sum of N1.4 billion strayed from the

account of the Office of the National Security Adviser into a company, Destra, linked to him.

Interestingly, it was the suspect, who first hinted that the former President, Goodluck Jonathan, had given him a job to do and that he successfully completed the said job, but failed to say what it was and how much he was paid for and when.

The revelation by Metuh, according to EFCC officials, prompted the agency to beam its searchlight on cash payments from the ONSA, leading to the discovery that he was one of the major beneficiaries of slush funds, now a subject of investigation and

prosecution by the Federal Government.

It was learnt that out of the $2.1 billion arms funds, N400 million was transferred from ONSA to the company on November 24, 2014 which previously had a balance of N6, 676,576.06 only before the major transfer from the ONSA. A top source in the EFCC said that Metuh was also receiving a monthly pay of N4 million from ONSA. A top EFCC source said Metuh was likely to spend the night with them given the weight of financial transactions in ONSA traced to him and his company.

The source said: “We arrested

Chief Metuh this morning (yesterday) and as we speak he is still being questioned and it is not likely that he will be released today.

“We want to finish the interrogation of Metuh at once, so that we can decide whether to charge him to court or let him

to go," the source said.

Metuh, has, however slammed his arrest by the EFCC, claiming that he was being persecuted.

“I have not done anything unlawful. Whatever I have done in pursuance of my office, I can defend it anywhere, any time,” he said.

Wife of Radio Biafra Director, Kanu delivered of baby boy

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CHECHI, WIFE of the embattled Director of Radio Biafra and leader of the

Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, Nnamdi Kanu, yesterday, reportedly gave birth to a baby boy at an undisclosed hospital.

The birth of Kanu’s child was announced in a message posted on the Facebook page of Radio Biafra London.

At press time, Vanguard could not independently verify if Mrs. Kanu put to birth in Nigeria or London, where Kanu was based before his arrest in Lagos, Nigeria on October 17, 2015.

The statement read: “Good morning great Biafrans. With joy in our hearts and celebration of new arrival to IPOB family, our first lady, the wife of our eminent leader, Joshua Nnamdi Kanu, has been delivered of a healthy baby boy. Mother and child are in good health.”

The statement added: “The child of freedom is born. Yes... Nnamdi Kanu III has been born to the family of the Leader of the Indigenous People Of Biafra and Director of Radio Biafra/Biafra Television, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, in the early hours of Tuesday, being January 5, 2016. For unto Biafrans, a Child of Freedom has been born and the victory of Biafrans has been guaranteed through his birth.

“This little Biafran soldier, shall bring freedom to Biafrans.

He understands the Biafra struggle and was sent a message,which most of us cannot understand. Yes, a more fearless and brave Nnamdi Kanu has been born and freedom is drawing near.

“We thank God for granting us our heart's desires towards this struggle and sending us a message which only the spiritual minded can figure out. We, the Indigenous People of Biafra, are congratulating the family of our leader Mazi Nnamdi Kanu and the entire IPOB family at large."

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Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 6, 2016 —17

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N the subject of the Presi dent’s media chat, some say they found his declarations “dictatorial. So, allow me to play devil’s advocate and ask: Is a good dictatorship better than a corrupt democracy?

In asking this question I’m reminded of an article “Dictatorship, Democracy and Development by a political scientist, Mancur Olson where he points out that studies show no large group has ever been able to reach a voluntary agreement to ensure law and order. Is law and order in everyone’s interest?

The honest truth is that it isn’t.

Nigeria is a prime example of this.

Those who have looted public funds go abroad and see how things are done but it is not in their interest to develop Nigeria or to give us the sort of schools, roads or healthcare that exist in other climes.

With their short term mentality and lack of creativity, what businesses could they start which would give them the sort of instant, wild returns that public office does? Many of those accused of corruption could not survive if Nigeria had a level playing field with opportunities for all.

Talented, brilliant Nigerians abound who would quickly displace the political class were the gates to be opened to them and their contributions. Democracy and openness is not man’s natural state. It isn’t what lays the foundation for law and order either.

Strong men, those with the same frugal, disciplined nature as Buhari, those are the sorts who demand that the law be unwavering and apply to all. The PDP has incredibly positioned itself as a defender of a would-be democracy.

But in effect, what it has supervised for 16 years is a kleptocracy where certain groups saw it fit and found it incredibly easy to take from Nigeria and give nothing back.Kleptomaniacsaredescribed as people with an obsessive desire to steal. This corrupted form of democracy has not benefitted Nigerians. With Buhari, I believe there is another way.

Dictatorial experience Typically, it is said that dictatorships enable faster development (decision-making is streamlined) and instill discipline and order. It is interesting then that our military rulers installed and perfected kleptocratic government rather than develop Nigeria.

Indeed, one factor was missing in our dictatorial experience: the love of country. Or if you’re more cynical, the understanding of simple economics. None of our military rulers seemed to understand (or care?) that there would be more money to be made for themselves and their proxies in a state where things work and Nigerians are empowered enough to purchase goods and services which could have been offered by them!

How do monarchies work? The whole of Britain, in essence, works and exists to pay the royals a salary.

Why have the Emirati or Saudi monarchies never been toppled?

C M Y K

tprincewill@yahoo.co.uk

Is a good dictatorship better than a corrupt democracy? ranch owner who makes sure his cattle are protected and given water.

Some have criticised the President for his comments on Dasuki’s trial. The President said: “If you see the atrocities these people committed against this country, we can’t allow them to jump bail.

What of the over two million people displaced, most of them orphans whose fathers have been killed? We cannot allow that. I wonder how these purported activists can claim to be pro-people while they defend those accused of killing Nigerians. Justice, the concept of fairness is universal.

Unfortunately, in its application byhumanbeingswhoareofcourse

President Muhammadu Buhari They provide health care and education, these governments have given their citizens not just the basics, but empowered them with enough spending power to conveniently ignore that the same individuals have been in control of their destinies for centuries.

Dictatorships work: except in Africa where unfortunately, there is no national cause, no sense of purpose, love of country or greatness to strive for. President Buhari is definitely not a dictator (a dictator would not have been able to resist the temptation of throwing Olisa Metuh, Ayo Fayose or Femi Fani-Kayode in jail for the insulting, inhumane comments they often make) but if by dictator his critics mean someone who will do the right thing no matter whose

interests are at stake, or someone who won’t listen to groups who come to Aso Rock to “beg for one guilty man or another, then please, let Buhari keep on “dictatoring.

Singapore achieved an economic miracle in an impossible time frame: Lee Kuan Yew, a “dictator of sorts, a man who knew right from wrong and kept enemies of social order and collective prosperity at bay, stabilised his country completely.

So, if today young Singaporeans can even aspire to more rights and freedoms, it is because of him.

Without order and an end to the sort of reckless stealing we in Nigeria have witnessed, there can be no development, no freedoms.

If we would stop clamouring for the liberty of accused individuals to keep killing us with impunity, we would realise that

Reckless stealing

President Buhari is definitely not a dictator (a dictator would not have been able to resist the temptation of throwing Olisa Metuh, Ayo Fayose or Femi Fani-Kayode in jail for the insulting, inhumane comments they often make)

Buhari’s federal budget for instance, which favours health and education (the back bone of any democracy) for the first time in years is not just a game-changer, but the motivation Nigerians need to eschew our differences in the long term.

In a country led by kleptomaniacs, there has never been any incentive for Nigerians to produce: our non-oil exports are laughable for a country as large and as rich.

To use a metaphor from the article I previously mentioned: past governments were wolves preying on unsuspecting elk. Buhari is the

fallible and prone to monetary persuasions, temptations and corruption, the law or rather lawyers and judges, can fall short of justice.

In such cases it is morally justifiable to ignore them. After all, slavery and the holocaust were once legal and those who assisted Blacks or Jews were outlaws.

Margaret Thatcher regrettably once called Mandela a criminal.

So, that some courts granted Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) movement, a group with violent, separatist tendencies, bail and that government refused to release him because they believe him to be a threat to public order, is fine.

Nigeria cannot afford to operate like it once did. We are at war, a war against corruption, a war to keep this country together. Those who are proven menaces to the successful waging of said war, which is in the interest of Nigerians, those who have proven themselves to be enemies of the state cannot be allowed to walk the streets freely.

If they are, what will they do if not use their stolen wealth to fight back, to fight not just government, but the average Nigerian, using our own money to further kill and oppress us?

True leaders don’t allow separatism, ethnic hate to thrive or greedy elite to knowingly harm their citizens. If that makes Buhari a dictator then let him “dictate right from wrong all he wants.

Labaran Maku

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S a people, we are incred ibly fond of speaking after the facts. The former minister of information has called for the removal of the immunity clause for elected officials from the constitution.

Interestingly, he didn’t push for such measures while a political appointee. The Attorney General of the Federation must prosecute the real dictators.

The former Chairman of the EFCC, Nuhu Ribadu presented a report to the National Assembly in 2006 detailing corruption cases and indictments involving 31 former governors. The sort of

Labaran Maku individuals who use public funds meant to develop the poor to fulfill their own selfish whims, they are the real monsters who have supervised the killing of the masses.

Rich kids of Instagram

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ICTURES of Smart Adeyemi (a former senator)’s daughter ’s £19k gold wristwatch (like former FCT Minister Bala Mohammed’s son’s luxury cars) have sparked much debate on so-

cial media as to the provenance of the funds used to purchase it, amidst allegations that American reality TV stars dated oil magnates rumoured to be connected to former Petroleum Minister Diezani Madueke. Is it suicidal for politically connected persons to flaunt their wealth in the Buhari era? Time will tell. *Tabia Princewill is a strategic communications consultant and public policy analyst. She is also the cohost and executive producer of a talk show, WALK THE TALK which airs on Channels TV.

18 — Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 6, 2016

IN every constitutional democracy, the judiciary is one of the major pillars that sustains its principles and tenets.

It is an embodiment of equity,fairness,justice and rule of law.

Without the judiciary which is regarded as the last hope of the aggrieved,law and order will stand on their heads. It is against this backdrop that justice must not only be done by the institution but must be seen by all to have been done.

Until the amendments of the Electoral Act 2010,it was only the presidential election petition that got to the Supreme Court. Perhaps,the perceived injustice some of the petitions suffered partly informed the amendments. Hence,governorship election petitions in particular,no longer terminate at the Court of Appeal. The apex court is the final arbiter.

Interestingly,the 2015 general elections and the colour of judgements emanating from the Court of Appeal have somewhat lent

Appeal Court conflicting judgments in election petitions credence to the wisdom that informed the Electoral Act amendments. In the last couple of months,the Appeal Court had delivered what can best be termed conflicting judgements in some of the National Assembly and governorship election petitions brought before them. Curiously,some of the facts and principles of the petitions are similar.

While we will refrain from commenting on some of these cases in adherence to ethical standards we, however, commend the timely intervention of the Chief Justice of Nigeria CJN,Justice Mahmud

Mohammed. The CJN used the annual conference of Court of Appeal in Abuja to express his concern on the issue.

In an apparent reference to the opposition Peoples Democratic Party, PDP accusation that the appeal court judgements were delivered to favour the ruling All Proggresives Congress ,APC, in his admonition that the justices are guardian, of the law and must not only be just but must also dispense certainty, could not have been more timely.

That is why we are adding our voice to that of the CJN to urge the three wise men(including women) on the

Court of Appeal bench to employ deeper jurisprudential perspectives in their judgement delivery, especially in cases with similar facts. As it is the practice in court system,the Appeal Court, in deference to the Supreme Court as the highest court in the land,should be guided by and follow the latter ’s precedents. This is so because as Justice Mohammed observed,there cannot be justice, where there is confusion as to the state of the law as pronounced by the court.

We also recommend the CJN’s piece of advice on the need for the Court of Appeal to have an internal Law report for Justices use either electronically or in print. Equally important is the wise counsel of Niki Tobi JSC (as he then was) that immediately a judgement is delivered in one division of the Court of Appeal,it should be sent to the other division instantly. This will engender uniformity and consistency in judgements.

OPINION Everything is wrong with Mutunji

By Ahmed Isah “The test of the morality of a society is what it does for its children’’ – Dietrich Bonhoeffer N the first week of November 2015, I took a business trip with my brother to a town called Mutunji in Dan Sadau Emirate, Maru Local Government Area of Zamfara state. Mutunji is a town with no small population and is not far from Dan Sadau. There, I saw a microcosm of the larger Nigeria society playing out to my disgust all over again. Education, security, healthcare all in total collapse as poverty, crime and neglect reigned supreme.

What made me sadder was the sight of children neglected by a country that refers to them as leaders of tomorrow. As Dietrich has opined, a society’s is tested by how well it treats its children but I go further to add that the true test is how a society treats the children of the poor and those without power. This test is one that Nigeria has failed and in Dan Sadau and Mutuji the evidence is clear.

Education At every stage of human history, the quest for knowledge have always been a constant. That quest is what has ensured man achieves civilisation and continues to strive for the growth of his society. The future of every society depends entirely on how much effort the current generation puts in to ensure the younger people get access to quality education.

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In Nigeria, however, the reverse is the case. Access to quality education is the exclusive reserve of the rich and those in power. In Mutunji, education is in total collapse and the only primary school there is in tatters. There is no single secondary school between Dan Sadau and Mutunji.

There are thirteen primary schools in Dan Sadau Emirates without teachers.

For many years, there are no teachers to teach children ready to learn and those ready find no one ready to pay for their work. No single child has finished primary school in Mutunji since 2005. Few months before our visit we were told, the community came together and made a decision to employ two teachers whom they are to pay 8000 Naira monthly to teach the children. To get the fee, they decided to levy every parent N100 a child.

This community’s initiative is what has brought education back to Mutunji. If this is not an indictment on our leaders especially the senator and house members representing these areas, nothing else is.

Security is life The trip from Gasau to Dan Sadau was

Citizens vote so they can be protected and have improved social standards not neglected.

long and torturous. Along the way, from Magami while approaching Yar-Tashar Yari, the driver turned to us and said we should expect the unexpected. The security of our lives from then on was up to us and God. Until we got to Mutunji, my heart beat was faster than the sound of the breeze coming through the window. It is an anomaly for citizens to resort to depending on each other for securing their lives and properties. It is a big recipe for chaos because the power of humans isn’t one and same. Security of lives and property is the fundamental responsibility of the government. If government cannot secure the lives and property of its citizens, then there is no need for such government to exist.

Our visit to Dan Sadau Emirates revealed a total collapse of law and order especially in Mutunji. Forced marriages, kidnap of young girls, murder, banditry, and arson are rife in Mutunji. Constituted authority turn blind eyes to these incidents and the stories hardly make it to mainstream media. Armed militia operate in the open, impose taxes and run open courts in villages like Dutsen Kura, Tasa, and Chapi.

In villages like Mai Awaki and Guru there is constant case of kidnap of young girls, who are forcefully given away in marriage. In Umguwar Galadima, about 200 hundred people were allegedly murdered for holding a meeting to find solution to the many problems bedevilling their community. No single word from the

authorities or any sign of an investigation.

In Kaduru, 40 people were said to have suffered the same fate. Villages like Mai Goge, Kalgo and Jesa could hitherto boast of thousands of cows but because of the activities of cattle rustlers like Madaka, Gajeran, Kauye they no longer own a single cow. These men and their likes attack the villages constantly, stealing cows and selling them off in other states through the assistant of middlemen and couriers.

The many crimes in this part of the country continue to go unpunished. Even when such suspected criminals are arrested, they walk away free after a day or two from police stations that are mostly understaffed, ill-equipped and corrupt.

Acquiring power to fail Power acquired if not for the advancement of citizens is largely useless.

The reasons why people seek to assume political positions is centred around making life better for people in their societies and to ensure such societies don’t result to chaos. This however looks different from what is obtainable in Nigeria. Increasingly, we have people who assume positions and result to selfaggrandizement forgetting the people who voted them. I advise governments at the federal, state and local government levels to look into cases like the one in Mutunji, where human lives have become worthless. Citizens vote so they can be protected and have improved social standards not neglected.

•Mr. Isah, a public affairs commentator, wrote from Abuja.

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 6, 2016—19 —19 Send Opinions & Letters to: opinions1234@yahoo.com

Prophecies, Nigerians and 2016?

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OWN the ages, philosophers have speculated on time as both an arbitrary and an artificial construct. Time for this class of people is a continuum which humanity has for its own convenience divided into time past, time present and future time. Otherwise, time has no boundaries. But dividing time into parts is one way through which people make sense of their existence, have some notion of how far they’ve come and what progress or lack of it has been made. So when at the end of a year people take stock of their life, it is time that makes it possible.

Otherwise, human life could be one long night of darkness or slumber without a beginning, middle or end. Time thus give human life a sense of purpose.

And just as time can serve as an instrument to measure individual progress, it can also serve as a calibrating tool for national progress. It is in this sense that we as a people must make sense of the strides we’ve taken as a nation. Have we moved, and if yes in what direction has our movement taken us- forward or backwards? Now 2015 belongs to

the ages, what can we make of 2016?

All sorts of fortune tellers, star gazers and necromancers are already at work. These modern day futurologists, close siblings of Godspower Oyewole, Prof.

Okozua and Nostradamus have been availing us of a peep into the immediate future. Even when the message from their books of fortune and crystal balls hints at hope and give a slight sense of national rebirth, the dominant tone of their message is rather underwhelming. Without any close reading of their reports the headlines say it all. They project a sense of looming national disaster with the usual caveat that things might turn around for good if certain actions are taken under certain conditions.

If at the end of December 2015 many Nigerians could not say when or where their next meal would come from, many more passed the holiday season not knowing if they would still be able to keep the same job they’ve had with no salary to take home for more than a year, with or without federal bailout- if the most reported news item and

newsmakers were respectively the mindless looting of the national treasury and persons under prosecution for corrupt diversion of public funds for personal enrichment, if the last few hours of 2015 ended with the prospect of yet another breakdown in government/labour relations and possible worsening of the energy crisis that has lingered with us for many months- if these pictures of aggravated disruptions of normal existence defined the better part of last year, one wonders if any Nigerian needs a seer of whatever pretensions to tell them that 2016 would not be the same as taking a cup of kunu.

We will need to demand a lot from our leaders by insisting that they meet their responsibilities than is presently the case. This people would need to see public office not as opportunity for wealth accumulation and self-puffing but rather as a means to impact meaningfully on the economic and social existence of the vast majority of Nigerians. We would all need to keep these so-called leaders on their toes and demand that they fulfil some of the minimum demands of elected

We need no soothsayer to tell us that only us can make our country into what we want it to be

leadership - provision of jobs, solid health care and education systems among others. Those of them who see public office as a mere cushion from the hard living that their irresponsible and corrupt ways have imposed on ordinary Nigerians would need to be called out to account for their actions. It shouldn’t be the case that all our leaders would list as achievements are the number of carnivals they were able to organise in the last days of December and the number of their cronies sent on religious pilgrimage at public expense. A leader’s achievement should not be the number of Christmas trees they were able to erect during the holiday period or the number of free train or bus rides they provided people who would rather stay home than go out for recreation during holiday weekends.

But more than demanding a lot from our leaders, 2016 should be a year we demand a lot more from ourselves. We should be willing to take more active interest in our civic responsibilities. We should be ready to do more to make life better and more liveable for our fellow citizens. There should be no reason why we should leave the fight against corruption in public office in the lonesome hands of President Mohammadu Buhari who has promised to tackle it headlong. The level of corruption among public office holders should get us thinking.

Corrupt persons should not be provided ethnic and religious cover among us. God has His place in our lives always but the greatest part of our problems demand personal will and exertions from us.

It is neither Buhari nor Bukola Saraki that hoards or diverts into the black market fuel meant for distribution across the country.

Lagos revenue, vehicles and road worthiness: An exercise in frustration

By Udo Ibuot & Muyinat Akinyemi

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O many unusual things happen every day in our society - and typical of us as Nigerians, we never bother to ask why some of these things happen the way they do.

Maybe because an average Nigerian is more obsessed with the desire to make ends meet, and as such is more preoccupied with issues like the hike in fares and why there are long queues in most filling stations across the country rather than bother about some compelling issues whose consequences are even more lethal.

Or better still, may be because ours is a society where we have never felt the need to hold our leaders responsible and accountable for their actions as is obtainable in most developed societies.

Looking at some of these issues and more, one would be forced to reiterate on some of the promises of Governor Akinwunmi Ambode of Lagos State during the electioneering periods in which he promised to run a one day economy among other campaign promises. While the tenets and canons of this concept might not be totally clear and important to a lay man, it is believed that the policy entails running a transparent government in which every citizen of the state would have access to information from public offices and is carried along in the entire democratic process. Well, maybe that’s an issue for another day.

Have you ever tried to obtain information on any aspect of the revenue of Lagos State from any of the government’s ministries at Alausa? Was it possible to obtain the required information or did you withdraw from the quest? Well, our experience was not

a pleasant one. We had set out to find how much revenue accrued to the state government from the registration of vehicles, licences and road worthiness certificates last year. To achieve this, we presented a questionnaire in August 2015 to the Office of the Accountant General of the State at the Ministry of Finance, Alausa, Ikeja. That was the beginning of sorrows that spanned more than three months.

The questionnaire was submitted to Room 212 and we were asked to return after one week for the information. We went and were directed to Room 10, the Financial Intelligence unit to witness a rather frustrating scenario. At first, the officer assigned the task was either not on seat, or at a meeting, at a seminar in Lagos or in Abuja. Later he was said to be on leave. When his colleagues called him to come from home to the office to release the information, he said there was no light to print same for approval by his boss at the ministry. The following week, he was reportedly transferred to another ministry. His colleague who should have provided the information announced rather gleefully that we needed to start a fresh process by filing a new questionnaire for him to start with, and that was the end of the story!

By virtue of provisions of Section 2 of

Unfortunately, even the Lagos State government that prides itself as the centre of excellence has no current postings on the said matter

the Freedom of Information Act, 2011, the Office of the Accountant General of Lagos State, which is under the Ministry of Finance, at the state secretariat, Alausa, Ikeja, is in all material particular, a public office, and it is duty bound to open information at its disposal to public access.

The department’s refusal to provide the needed information, in our view, is a violation of provisions of the Freedom of Information Act 2011. Of special notice is Section 4 of the Act which states, "Where information is applied for under this Act the public institution to which the application is made shall, subject to sections 6, 7 and 8, of this Act, within seven days after the application is received (a) Make the information available to the applicant (b) Where the public institution considers that the application should be denied, the institution shall give written notice to the applicant that access to all or part of the information will not be granted, stating reasons for the denial, and the section of this Act under which the denial is made. Well let’s not bore you too much with all these legal terms.

In the extant case, no notice was issued to state reason for the denial, and officials of the Accountant General’s Office simply refused to accept responsibility for the provision of information under their care.

If the officials had offered any excuse that the information was fully domiciled in another government department, and redirected the request to that department, our quest would have been assuaged.

With this frustrating encounter at the Office of the Accountant General of Lagos State, we had to turn to the internet for any possible information on the issue.

Unfortunately, even the Lagos State government that prides itself as the centre of excellence has no current postings on

Neither Dogara nor Gbajabiamila is there when a fuel attendant sells fuel above approved pump price.

It’s ordinary Nigerians who engage in these activities; it’s they who make life difficult for their neighbours. We should be willing and ready to take responsibility for the injury we inflict on one another in the name of getting by. If we show ourselves to be responsible people in our own little corners and try to break the circle of corruption in the land, we may be able to demand same thing from those who in the name of claiming to be our elected representatives destroy the country in the name of everybody. We need no soothsayer to tell us that only we can make our country into what we want it to be.

Considering how much hangs on it, we must in this new year also be ready to take a second look at and finally lay to rest this bogey of fuel subsidy. Let’s all search our hearts and truly ask ourselves what real benefits come to us all from the so-called subsidy. Should our subsidy be only in words or should it be something we can all measure in real terms? What’s the benefit of pegging the fuel price at a socalled subsidised rate of N87, N86 or even N65 per litre when nobody buys it for anything less than N130 or more? Who benefits from this unhealthy state of affairs?

In the event Nigerians have to do without ‘subsidy’ how do we ensure that the extra kobo that comes in goes into the right channel? Beyond the prophecies of doom these are the type of issues that should exercise Nigerians in this year. Happy 2016!

the said matter.

An erstwhile commissioner for transportation in Lagos State, Kayode Opeifa, had declared in April 2015, that there were about two million vehicles on Lagos roads with a density of 224 vehicles per kilometre. Despite his assurances, the unwillingness of state government officials to release information on the revenue base make comparison of these figures pretty difficult. Indeed, the last and only public data from the Lagos State government on motor vehicles revenues was posted on its website in 2010 and is entitled Motor Vehicle Registration Statistics, Lagos State 2009. The 2010 report indicated that 210,798 new vehicles were registered in the state in 2009 compared with 239,992 of the previous year.

Of this figure, 153,781 vehicles were for private use and were in the category of saloons/station wagons. That report also reflected an increase in the number of registered commercial buses from 28,425 in 2008 to 32,490 with mini buses and omni buses accounting for 13,802 and 232 respectively.

The Motor Vehicle Administration Agency, MVAA, was set up by the Lagos State Government in 2007. Its core mandate includes issuing of certificate of title of motor vehicles, renewal of all categories of motor vehicles and drivers licences, in collaboration with the Federal Road Safety Commission, FRSC, learners permit and other related matters.

The agency also has powers to revoke, suspend or withdraw any licence granted to anyone who infringes on the enabling law.

At the moment, the MVAA performs its responsibilities through 46 licensing stations where owners of vehicles can register and Continues tomorrow on page 18

•Messrs. Ibuot & Akinyemi, LASU post graduate students, wrote from Lagos.

20—V ANGU ARD, WEDNESD A Y, JANU ARY 6, 2016 20—VANGU ANGUARD, WEDNESDA JANUARY

My husband’s second wife doesn’t know I exist

Pregnant for my best friend’s brother Dear Bunmi, A few months ago, my best friend’s brother paid a visit to one of the top managers in the office I worked for. He didn’t know I worked there and was actually glad to see me. He

offered me lunch and we had a lovely time. When he asked where I stayed, I told him. I thought he was just being polite but you can imagine how surprised I was when I saw him at my doorsteps a few

Help me get my life back Dear Bunmi, Last year, I had a reasonably comfortable life. I went to work and had a boyfriend and a good group of friends. Then I became ill and was hospitalised. When I came out, I discovered my boyfriend’s moved on to a new girlfriend. Weeks later, my landlord threw me out when I couldn’t afford the rent.

Now my boss seems to be fed up with me because I’m always off on sick leave.

I have a lot of bills I’m worried about and I feel depressed.

I used to be strong but now I feel weak and I’m tired of fighting life’s problems.

Please help me find my way back before I give up.

Shade, by e-mail.

Dear Shade, Most of us get out of life precisely what we expect from it. To expect more from life requires expecting more from yourself, and expectations of the self are the basis of

confidence. Imagine your self-confidence as a muscle that needs regular stretching and exercise. Start slowly; go to the cinema on your own; take up a sport or join a gym.

Change your hair-style or make-up for a while, just because you can. Or wear bright colours you’ve never worn before.

If your professional life is going nowhere, then it needs a push. Think about your dream career and educate yourself about necessary qualifications and find out where you can start training while you’re still young to go for it. Increase your knowledge, increase your confidence. Remember, education doesn’t stop with childhood. Sooner than you think, your health issues will be behind you. When you meet new people after you’re back on your feet, concentrate on them and ask questions about what they do. It will stop the paralysing anxiety you feel about your state of health.

days later. He said he was in the neighbourhood to see a friend.

I invited him in and we ended up sleeping together.

Afterwards we both regretted it because he’s married with two young children, and we agreed not to say a word to anyone. The trouble is, I think I might be pregnant, and he’s the father. I don’t know what to do or where to turn. I can’t tell my friend as she’d never speak to me again. I haven’t told her brother either.

Susanna, by e-mail.

Dear Susanna, You have some very tough choices to make. Tell your friend or her brother and chances are you would break up a family and most of the people connected to this problem would turn you into the enemy. As hard as the fact is, you’re on your own. If you decide to keep the pregnancy, then you would have to raise the baby alone. Even if you decide on a termination, you would be on your own so to speak.

You need to go for counselling and consult wildly with close friends to arrive at a solution that will cause you less emotional stress. In the meantime, take a pregnancy test before you take the next step.

He threatens me with violence Dear Bunmi, My husband and I have been married for close to 15 years and I love him. He loves me too in his own way and is a good father to the children.

Recently, his love has turned to vicious jealousy. He believes I‘ve always indulged in secret affairs and has compiled a list of ‘suspects’ which includes my former boss, a friend’s husband and my new boss.

Now he’s resorting to violence. He’s threatening he would maim me if I don’t confess to all these drummed up affairs and the children are getting a bit frightened of him. The last straw was when he recently grabbed me by the throat because I was dancing so seductively at an outdoor party.

I’m thinking of leaving him as I don’t want to lose my life or limbs because of a crime I’m not guilty of but he said he would kill the two of us if I

tried to leave.

Should I go to the police?

Awawu, by e-mail.

Dear Awanu, Jealousy in small doses is fine, but your husband is paranoid and needs help. Is he happy in his job? Why should he start exhibiting insane jealous traits all of a sudden?

Unfortunately, jealous people are dangerous people and if your husband does not want to seek medical

help, I’m afraid you have to find an alternate accommodation away from him. You are right, your children need you alive than maimed or dead.

Have a word with him and show him you’re prepared to help him beat his illness if he would seek help. If possible, involve his close friends.

You’ll also discover that most often, the type of threats he issues have no bite to them once you top-up his confidence.

Have a word with him and show him you’re prepared to help him beat his illness if he would seek help; if possible, involve his close friends

Dear Bunmi, My husband took a second wife without my knowledge.

We’ve been married for seven years and still remain childless due to his own fault (doctor’s report). I heard from the grapevine that he took a second wife over a year ago.

The irony of it all is that he claimed to be single, so the other woman doesn’t know of my existence. What do I do?

Does he still deserve my love?

At times I feel like running away. I hurt and stay awake every night he stays away. I am dying in silence.

Bola, by e-mail.

Dear Bola, Have you really confirmed that your husband has a second wife by asking him?

It’s amazing the unnecessary pain we put ourselves through because of lack of dialogue.

Men could be as emotionally strung as women.

The fact that your husband can’t give you a child must be devastating to him and some men in his shoes have happily accepted other men’s pregnancies to save face.

You obviously still love your husband and you need to seek urgent medical solutions to your childless state. Lastly, you too have to decide if you love your husband enough to stay married to him without the prospect of a child. The longer you leave these soulsearching questions without seeking answers, the more frustrated you’ll become.

Mum wants a big wedding but I don’t Dear Bunmi, I’m getting married to my boyfriend of two years in a couple of months’ time but I’m dreading it. We both wanted a simple wedding with close families and friends, but my mother wouldn’t hear of it. I’m the only girl of the family and she’s really pushing out the boat for this wedding, picking aso-ebi and arranging a lavish reception.

In short, she has taken over the whole day and I have hardly been involved at all.

My fiance says we should let her get on with it if it would really make her happy as she is paying, but I feel resentful that she has hijacked my day in this way.

I feel like running off to have a quiet wedding.

Halimat, by e-mail.

Dear Halimat, You’re likely to cause a lot of upset if you run away to get married. Really, there is no need for you to resent your mother for trying to control your life. As it’s only one day, does it really matter? All that’s important is that you and your fiance are happy together. He’s not complaining; all you need to do is relax, humour your mum who’s happy to be the ‘motherof-the-bride’ and enjoy all the fuss. You might even look back at your wedding day in future and feel a lot of gratitude for your mum for being in control of such a memorable day!

Excessive hair growth embarrasses me Dear Bunmi, For quite a while now I’ve got what looks like a dark moustache on my upper lip, and recently, I’ve started to sprout hairs on the chin and my chest. Not exactly magnet when you want to pull a man, you’ll agree. I’ve tried shaving, but it seems to encourage the growth.

Are there lasting remedies?

Uju, by e-mail.

Dear Uju, Quite a number of women have noticeable facial hair on the chin, upper lip or as side-burns, and you can get it on your nipples, shoulders and lower

abdomen. It may not be sexy, but you shouldn’t let your growth bother you. It is all down to oversensitivity of the male hormone, testosterone, which can either be inherited or triggered by drugs like steroids, used to treat skin conditions like dermatitis.

For permanent hair removal, electrolysis is best.

Unfortunately, you can’t easily get it in the country. Shaving is quite effective; so are hairremoving creams.

Occasionally though, excess hair is symptom. If you have irregular periods, acne, greasy hair and a tendency to gain weight, see your doctor for a blood test.

Share your problems and release your burden. Write now to Dear Bunmi, Vanguard Newspapers, P.M.B 1007, Apapa, Lagos, or bunmsof@yahoo.co.uk

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 6, 2016 — 21

22 — Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 6, 2016

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If you want to have a good retirement after the many years you put in as a worker, you have to identify and develop requisite skills around your innate ability

INSURAN

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PenCom advocates safety of pension funds in Africa

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IRECTOR-GENERAL, National Pension Commission (PenCom), Mrs. Chinelo AnohuAmazu, has emphasized the need for pension fund managers and regulators in Africa to ensure safety of the retirement savings of workers across the continent.

Anohu-Amazu spoke during the just concluded Annual Leadership Symposium organised by the Africa 2.0 Organization in Maputo, Mozambique, saying pension fund assets in Nigeria had risen to $26 billion as at October 2015.

The fifth edition of Africa 2.0 Annual Leadership Symposium had “The Whole is Greater Than the Sum of the

She also harped on the need for both pension regulators and operators to ensure the institution of adequate risk mitigation tools, saying this should be the guiding principle in the investment of pension assets

Parts - What’s Your Role� as its theme. Reflecting on investment in Africa, the Director General said pension fund managers in Nigeria are amenable to investing part of the pension funds in infrastructure and real estate through viable and secure investible outlets. She also harped on the need for both pension regulators and operators to ensure the institution of adequate risk mitigation tools, saying this should be the guiding principle in the investment of pension assets.

Guiding principle She further emphasised the imperative of timely payment of retirement benefits of workers in order not to compromise their comfort after their active working period, which is the main objective of saving towards retirement.

Meanwhile, the symposium aimed at achieving a committed community who understand their part in the whole, their contribution and how they will work together for impact Africa 2.0.

It also sought to align plans for action that contribute to the Africa 2.0 whole and will; make systemic and lasting impact and effective partnership between all actors including government, media and civil society and put in place an innovative content and ideas that spark a global conversation both during and after the event.

PRESENTATION: From left, President, Nigerian Council of Registered Insurance Brokers (NCRIB), Mr. Kayode Okunoren presenting the council’s souvenir to Ogun State Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Adewale Oshinowo, during a working visit to the commissioner at the state secretariat, Abeokuta, Ogun State.

Develop skills for retirement Stories by Rosemary Onuoha

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F you want to have a good retirement after the many years you put in as a worker, you have to identify and develop requisite skills around your innate ability. This is one of the critical ways of effectively planning for life in retirement.

Accordingly, there is need for financial planning because it will help you as a retiree to meet unforeseen and identified needs as well as ensure that money made during active years are well utilised during retirement.

However, according to experts,

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despite the many benefits of financial planning, depending on it alone as a buffer might not be enough due to changes in global economy and longer life expectancy that puts strain on pension funds pool.

Former Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Mr. Tunde Lemo said, “You need to develop skills that will be very useful when your normal nine to five job is no longer there.

Everyone has innate personal capability that is superior to someone else’s. Just as we have unique biometric features, there is something God has deposited in you that is better than others, including your bosses. “So, you need to ask yourself, what is it that I am capable of doing and doing better than others and begin to build skills around it. That is your major retirement benefit that will pay you much better than any other investment option,� he said.

Also, as a retiree, you need to be healthy to be able to enjoy your retirement years therefore it is

A change in lifestyle will enable you shrink your expenses to be able to save the surplus to fall back on postretirement

important that you maintain a healthy lifestyle. A change in lifestyle will enable you shrink your expenses to be able to save the surplus to fall back on postretirement.

Retirement planning According to Lemo, some of the pitfalls in retirement planning include starting too late, putting away too little and investing conservatively. To avoid this, you should focus on investments that give real returns.

Mr. Sulaimon Adedokun, CEO, Meristem Wealth Management Limited, said that what is of utmost importance is to ensure that available resources are well allocated in the face of rising inflation. “How you save and invest towards your retirement is just as important as how much you save. Inflation is one of the key factors to consider while adopting a diversified income generating strategy for investing. The type of investment you make determines how much you will have saved at retirement.

By diversifying, you reduce risk and more likely improve return,� he said. “For us, it is about managing the entire asset allocation; the transition from what you do from asset allocation to income allocation becomes something very important. At retirement, you are no more focusing on asset allocation; you are focusing on income allocation.

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 6, 2016 —

NCRIB advocates insurance against fire to save nation from losses

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HE Nigerian Council of Registered Insurance Brokers (NCRIB) has condoled with management of Galaxy Television which station was gutted by fire recently in Lagos.

The Council also extended the same message to victims of recent fire outbreak in Lagos and other parts of the Country.

In a statement signed by President of the Council, Mr.

Kayode Okunoren, the Council noted that it was most regretful that the outbreaks of fires have become a recurring decimal in the country, draining the nation of substantial material resources and loss of human lives.

Okunoren stated that individuals and business owners needed to devote more attention to risk prevention mechanisms, of which, insurance is pivotal, in

Reinsurance price declines to persist – Willis Re

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HE hope that reinsurance prices would stabilise at the key January 2016 reinsurance renewals have been dashed, according to broker Willis Re, with further price declines seen across the bulk of the market.

Willis Re International Chairman James Vickers said that while there had been hope earlier that the worst of the reinsurance rate declines were behind us, the market has seen its hopes dashed and prices continue to fall.

He said, “Rates in the UK and Europe are reported to have been most affected, with the UK seeing property catastrophe reinsurance rates down by -10% to -15%, Europe -5% to -12.5%.

The U.S. did see more stabilisation of pricing, but still ongoing declines, witnessing prices falling by -2.5% to -7.5%.”

Vickers said that for conditions to change the market needs to see some reinsurers

reporting poor results, as until that time the low level of major losses and continued ability to release reserves would likely buoy reinsurance firms results.

“However even if results can be maintained, profitability will decline further. The need for traditional reinsurers to remain disciplined and to become more efficient, or gain scale through M&A, will be a constant pressure throughout 2016 once again.

“It’s an early indication that the pre-renewal commentary has been largely accurate, with the worst declines seen in regions where competition for diversification remains high.

The ongoing competition ensures another year ahead where the influence of the capital markets on reinsurance is going to be a key topic of focus, as lower-cost capital and efficiency in terms of business model remain key.”

preserving their material resources.

“Individuals and business owners need to understand risk vulnerability occasioned by the present harsh weather conditions and poor town planning policies, and in so doing, engage insurance experts to advise them on risk prevention”, Okunoren advised.

He said while the painful incidents of fires with its ravenous effects had been witnessed in Ibadan, Nnewi and Kaduna in recent times, Lagos State has also had its painful share of the incident.

Massive education He however enjoined State Government to get involved in massive education of its citizens on need to engage risk prevention mechanism with special emphasis on insurance.

Recently, the Lagos State Fire Service disclosed that 1,898 fire incidents were recorded in 2015 with billions of naira lost and 80 deaths. The records show that the outgoing year recorded 200 fire incidents over that of previous year.

The NCRIB advocated a synergy between the insurance industry and various organisations and agencies to continually brainstorm on preventive strategies and evolvement of public enlightenment activities to reduce the menace of fire incidents in the country.

PRESENTATION: From left: Mr. Segun Balogun, Deputy Managing Director, Lasaco

Assurance Plc; Mr. Olusola Ladipo-Ajayi , Managing Director, Lasaco Assurance; Dr. K.B Sofoluwe, Rector Federal College of Dental Technology and Therapy, Enugu and Mr. Dimeji Olona, General Manager, Lasaco Assurance at the presentation of ICT to the school.

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There is need for financial planning because it will help you as a retiree to meet unforeseen and identified needs as well as ensure that money made during active years are well utilised during retirement

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Auwalu appointed Acting GMD of Royal Exchange

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HE Board of Directors of Royal Exchange Plc has announced the appointments of Alhaji Auwalu Muktari as the Acting Group Managing Director of the company while Mr. Francis Okoli, is now the Group Chief Finance Officer.

Muktari was the former Group Executive Director, Marketing & Sales before the appointment while Okoli was the Assistant General Manager and Head of Accounts, Royal Exchange Prudential Life, a subsidiary of Royal Exchange Plc. In a statement, the company said that the appointments come following the expiration of the employment contracts of the erstwhile Group Managing Director and Managing Director, Mr. Chike Mokwunye and the resignation of the former Chief Financial Officer.

Chairman, Board of Directors, Royal Exchange Plc, Mr. Kenneth Odogwu, extolled the virtues of the exiting officers, especially the retiring Group Managing Director, Mr. Chike Mokwunye and commended their esteemed services and contributions to the growth and success of Royal Exchange Group. The Board also expressed sincere appreciation to Mokwunye for the cordial and harmonious working relationship that existed between the board and Mokwunye during his fiveyear tenure as Group Managing Director.

Speaking further, Odogwu said that Muktari will work closely with Mokwunye, pending his final disengagement.

Francis Okoli has direct responsibility to oversee the Finance and Accounts

Royal Exchange started operations in 1921 and continues to be driven by innovation and a determination to offer services that are of exceptional value to its customers

function of all the subsidiaries in the Group.

Muktari completed his 1st degree in Business Administration and later his Masters Degree in Banking and Finance at Bayero University Kano in 1993 and 1995 respectively. He also attended Ahmadu Bello University Zaria where he obtained a Diploma in Insurance at Credit Level in 1983. Having attended Hagagawa Primary School, Bichi, Auwalu completed his secondary education at Kano Community Commercial College in 1981. He started his working career with the Kano based insurance company, Kapital Insurance Limited and rose through the ranks to become Head of Re-insurance Department.

Okoli joined the services of Royal Exchange Prudential Life Plc in December 2010 as the Chief Financial Officer. Prior to this appointment, he was a Senior Associate and Head of Financial Control at BGL Securities Limited.

Exceptional value Before joining BGL Group, he worked at Hallmark Bank Plc and rose to the position of a Senior Manager/Deputy Chief Financial Officer until the bank was acquired by ECO Bank Plc. He also had a stint at both Owena Bank Plc and Kazel Savings & Loans Ltd. Royal Exchange started operations in 1921 and continues to be driven by innovation and a determination to offer services that are of exceptional value to its customers. Following the recapitalisation exercise in 2007, the company was reorganised into a group structure comprising Royal Exchange Plc as the holding company and five strategic subsidiaries namely, Royal Exchange General Insurance Company Limited (Non-Life Insurance Services); Royal Exchange Prudential Life Plc (Life Assurance Services); Royal Exchange Finance and Investments Limited (Financial Advisory Services); Royal Exchange Healthcare Limited (HMO and Health Insurance) as well as Royal Exchange Microfinance Bank Limited (Banking Services).

24—VANGUARD, WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 6, 2016

Tech trends to watch this year PAGE 29

Female developer launches app to reduce maternal mortality PAGE 32

•Communications Minister: Complaining ?

•President Buhari presenting 2016 budget

2016 Budget: No innovations for NIPOST, as budget denies it CAPEX

By Emmanuel Elebeke

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HE 2016 budget was a mixture of surprises. While some sectors jubilate, others are racking their brains on how to sort out the confusion the budget has put on their operations. For instance, the Ministry of Communications and two of its agencies are to share N15, 997, 128, 516 billion as their total budgetary allocation for the year 2016. While this is a great improvement upon last year's N9.9 billion, it also has its own flaws. The budget did not

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provide for capital expenditure, CAPEX, for the Nigeria Postal Service, NIPOST. This means that the sub-sector may not engage in any meaningful innovations in 2016. It will only have to pay salaries from its N6,694,205,844 recurrent allocation.

The ministry of communications has the Nigeria Communication Satellite, Nigeria Postal Service as agencies under its supervision.

According to the summary of the budget, a total of N600,239,582 was proposed for personnel services;

N240,879,440 for overhead; N841,119,022 for recurrent expenditure, while a total of N5,000,000,001 was apportioned for capital projects for the ministry headquarters, bringing the total allocation for the Ministry headquarters to N5,841,119,023.

For the Nigeria Communication Satellite, the summary also showed that a total sum of N2,310,489,133 was proposed for personnel cost; N71,314,517 foroverhead; N2,381,803,650 for recurrent and N1,079,999,999 for capital expenses, which brings the entire allocation to agency to

N3,461,803,649 for the year.

Entire allocation to agency For the Nigeria Postal Service (NIPOST), a total of N6, 694,205,844 was proposed for both personnel cost and recurrent expenditure, bringing the total allocation to N6,694,205,844.

The above figure brings the entire personnel budget proposal for the ministry for the year in review to N9,604,934,559. The overhead was N312,193,957 and N9,917,128,516 for recurrent, while N6,080,000,000 was mapped out for capital and this brings the total allocation to N15,997,128,516.

A breakdown of the budget

proposal showed that Federal Government proposed N533, 546, 295 as allocation for salaries and wages for the ministry headquarters.

N52,804,164 was appropriated for miscellaneous expenses, N5,770,296 for utilities-general, N1,918,072 for maintenance of plants/generators and N14,142,734 for security services.

Further breakdown of the budget revealed that N256,721,015 was budgeted as allowances and social contribution for the staff of Nigeria Communication Satellite while, N18,786,778 was appropriated for miscellaneous expenditure.

N2,007,279 was, however, proposed for travel and general transportation; N2,381,680 utilities-general uses, whereas, N4,240,296 was for maintenance services, fuelling and lubricants received N22,844,634 .

For the NIPOST, while there was zero allocation to capital expenditure, recurrent got N6,694,205,844.

VANGUARD, WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 6, 2016—25

Tech trends to watch this year

gloves’ until the new administration. For fear of fines and sanctions, there is likely to be a decrease in dropped calls, unsolicited text messages and poor network coverage.

•Self-charging phones New technologies are enabling phones to charge through wavelengths. Japanese telecom company KDDI Corp. will in 2016 showcase a product, called Cota, that will automatically recharge mobile phones at a distance, similar to how WiFi transmitters deliver data from routers to devices.

Existing technologies

By Laju Iren

N

O one knows tomorrow.

Even before the hit song

by Nigerian musician, Asa, this saying has proven itself to be true time and time again. But that doesn’t stop tech lovers from

making calculated guesses in light of existing proofs. That said, there are five things most likely to happen in the tech industry in Nigeria and the world over this 2016.

•Better telecoms services The MTN issue goes to court

this year and regardless of the outcome, telecommunications companies will be forced to sit up with regard to their services.

Recall that new communications Minister, Mr. Adebayo Shittu said recently that regulators have been handling operators with ‘kid

This follows existing technologies that take advantage of smartphones’ wireless charging standard, known as Qi. The company Qi Wireless, for example, produces pads that charge phones when placed on them. Home-grown technologies such as the Damaris-Solaris bag which comes with a charging unit are also setting the pace for it.

•Solar Power Nigerian tech companies are finally doing something about the power situation. Omatek technologies for example entered into solar simply because a client-school the company was to supply computers complained

Galaxy J7 bri af fordability ngs innovation to

Samsung Smart School to train 10,000 teachers within five years

By Prince Osuagwu

S

AMSUNG Electronics West Africa has said that the company will train 10,000 teachers within the next five years through its Smart School Initiative.

This commitment was made during the launch of the Samsung Smart School for Teachers at the Federal Government Boys College in Apo, Abuja, in partnership with the Federal Ministry of Education Abuja, recently.

The Samsung Smart School for Teachers in Apo will be the first of five launched in Nigeria, with others planned for Ogun, Rivers, Delta and Imo states. This will result in a collective 10, 000 teachers receiving training as primary beneficiaries, and a further 5, 000 students impacted as secondary beneficiaries, over a five year period.

“The Samsung Smart School concept is implemented in urban schools with the infrastructure, but not the skills needed to use IT for teaching and learning,” said Managing Director, Samsung Electronics West Africa, Mr. Brovo Kim,. “In line with the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goal to improve education, we believe it is essential to equip teachers with basic computer literacy, as well as the tools they need to use ICTs for curriculum development and more impactful teaching; and the Samsung Smart School for Teachers is an important step in achieving this.”

With the launch of the Samsung C M Y K

Smart School for Teachers at the Federal Government Boys College, teachers will receive training to empower them to access digital content, share it with students, monitor students’ progress and conduct assessments. The initiative is part of Samsung’s global efforts to use technology to increase the quantity of students who have access quality learning materials and facilities, as well as to improve the quality of education given out by tutors.

Representing the newly appointed Federal Minister of Education, Mr. Adamu Adamu, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Information, Dr Folasade Yemi-Esan expressed her excitement about the impact this will have on education in Abuja. “We are indeed grateful to Samsung for tapping into the goal of the ministry of education to train quality teachers. We encourage all beneficiaries of this project to take full ownership of the project and let the improved quality of teaching reflect in our students’ results” she said.

Expressing his gratitude, the principal, Federal Government Boys College, Apo, Mr. Jonathan Mbaakaa added that for relevance in the digital age, teachers must do a lot in the area of ICT knowledge and application, if the teaching profession is to transform to global level of relevance and competitiveness.

of a power situation. Now the entire company not only runs on solar power, but is providing reliable solar-solutions to companies. With the uncertain future of petrol prices and power tariffs in 2016, solar is bound to grow in leaps and bounds.

•Virtual realities According to the Tech insider, three major headsets that will revolutionize the way people experience virtual reality will finally be available for consumers this year. The Oculus Rift headset, which has been in development since its landmark Kickstarter campaign in 2012, will finally be released for consumers in the first quarter of 2016. The HTC Vive headset, as well as the Sony VR Headset which is compatible with Playstation four will also be released.

• Smarter cars While it still may be a few years until we see fully autonomous vehicles, experts believe that there has been recent movement from both a technological and regulatory standpoint that might help make 2016 a stand-out year for smart-car tech.

In December, reports suggested Google and Ford Motor Co. could join forces to create a joint venture that will develop self-driving vehicles with Google’s technology. 2016 will likely be a year for more of such partnerships.

•Galaxy J7

I

By Laju Iren

T is a popular saying that any food that tastes good was cooked with a lot of money. Many brands use it as an excuse to charge exorbitant prices for their products.

The case however, seems to be different for the Samsung Galaxy J7. It seems akin to food that tastes good, but does not cost an arm and a leg.

The J7, which plays in the mid-range segment of the mobile phone market, also offers impressive spec and features. Many big smartphones tend to be highly priced and beyond the reach of majority of people. This is where the Galaxy J7 stands out: to give users a big device at a price that won’t dig a hole in their pockets.

With the introduction of the Galaxy J7 to join the immensely popular, Galaxy J5, Samsung is set to continue its dominance of the mid-range smartphone segment, thus with specifications raising the bar. This unique smartphone, according to Samsung, lets users get the most out of their mobile experience with functions and features that take mobility

to an entirely new level. From the brilliant screen, with advanced resolution, contrast, and color reproduction, viewing text, images and video, user experience has never been better.

Capturing images also proves impressive with manual aperture settings and even a flash on the frontfacing camera. With the Galaxy J’s Adaptive Fast Charging feature, users can finally enjoy everything the Galaxy J7 has to offer, without the fear of the battery needing a recharge so often. Its ultra power saving mode also lets users make the most of their last battery power, helping them stay connected for longer periods. In emergency situations, the use of Ultra Power Saving Mode squeezes additional juice from the battery to extend phone use.

Samsung’s Galaxy J features has advanced technology on both the front and rear cameras. Users can now enjoy taking amazing shots with friends and of their surroundings. The J7 Palm Recognition feature allows users to take photographs by showing their palms to the camera lens – ideal for taking selfies.

An Octa core Processor paired with 3GB of RAM delivers easy multitasking, lightning-fast screen transitions, powerful browser performance, and minimal application loading time. The Galaxy J7 is powered by the latest Android 5.1 “Lollipop” operating system that provides users with stunning graphical capabilities.

26—VANGUARD, WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 6, 2016

ICT applications still solution to insurgency, unemployment — Minister

By Emeka Aginam

M

INISTER of Communications, Mr. Adebayo Shittu has said that Information Communications Technology, ICT solutions are urgently needed to tackle insurgency, unemployment and other vices disrupting Nigeria’s economic growth.

The Minister, during a dinner hosted by the Nigerian Computer Society after the foundation laying ceremony of the NCS’s Information Technology Innovation Center told the gathering that robust technology innovation and committed effort were needed to fight this vices to the barest minimum.

In his task of equipping the Nigerian national workforce technologically and digitally, he said that the solution to the nation’s insecurity challenges lies in science and technology.

“The obvious solution, as experts have pointed-out, according to him, is to diversify the productive base of our national economy and urgently train and re-train our national workforce technologically and digitally.

National workforce “Today, as we make history by laying the foundational cornerstone of this Technology Innovation Centre, I am persuaded that the NCS is sending out a strong message which announces its robust buy-in and optimal compliance with Mr. President’s ‘Change’ agenda.

A Centre dedicated to technological innovation will clearly be a major part of the answer to the national objective of training and re-training our national workforce technologically and digitally ”,he said. The Minister believes strongly that the NCS’s technology Innovation center would generate several technological and digital innovations that would turn our national economy around for good.

The time, according to him, has come for Nigeria, as a member of the Mint Bloc, to deliver innovative products and services to the world and therewith assert itself on the world stage alongside the Western and the Bric

From left: Minister of Communications, Mr Adebayo Shittu; former President, Nigerian Computer Society, Sir. Demola Aladekomo and former NCS President, Alhaji Ladi Oguneye at the foundation laying ceremony of the NCS IT Innovation Centre, in Lagos. Photo: Emeka Aginam nations presently leading the world.

Gap between research out from Nigerian Universities The Minister noted with concern the gap between research output from Nigerian universities and the level of industrial commercialization accorded them.

To address this concern, the Minister proposed a high-level tripartite dialogue between his Ministry, the Federal Ministry of Education and the NCS. With optimism, he said that the technology innovation center would also be able to bridge part of this gap.

Inadequate incubation centers Earlier in his address, the President of the NCS Prof. Sola Aderounmu reaffirmed the commitment of the NCS in partnering with the Federal Government to build an inclusive, prosperous and digitally enabled nation. According to the NCS President, twenty seven technology centres across the nation were inadequate and could not provide jobs for millions of unemployed Nigerians.

“None of these centers focused on incubating ideas coming out of our universities, that is precisely focused on taking ideas from the laboratory to the market place which allow for

commercialization of university research. Hence, there is urgent need to set up an incubation center to focus on addressing weak university / industry linkage.

For 21st century Nigeria, the NCS again recommender the following to the Federal Government of Nigeria *Priority be given to the use of registered local IT professionals and registered local IT companies to execute IT jobs. In particular such IT firms and professionals should be involved in Strategic IT projects; *A deliberate focus on youth innovation to generate massive employment for millions of our youth through riding on the startup boom in Nigeria; * The use of innovative IT tools and solutions to frontally address the major concerns of bribery and corruption facing the nation; *Appoint seasoned IT professionals on the boards of MDAs to maximize and deepen the benefits of electronic governance and digital transformation in Nigeria; *Deployment of IT tools and solutions to enable interception of criminal, terrorist and related communications; *Urgent deployment of IT to tackle Boko Haram and terrorism in Nigeria.

Airtel Red Hot promo winners return from Dubai

By Richard Udofia

I

T was indeed a very merry Christmas for Mrs. Victoria Obi and Mrs. Nnamdi Oji, winners of the Airtel Red Hot Promo who had the opportunity to take their friends and family on an allexpense paid trip to Dubai courtesy of the telecommunications network.

The trip gave the winners the opportunity to visit exciting places in Dubai such as Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in Dubai, Dubai Mall, Ferrari World in Abu Dhabi and the Safari Desert.

Obi, a business woman in Lagos, selected her three kids, Mariam, Michael and Raphael to travel with her on the Dubai trip, while Oji, a web developer/ entrepreneur, chose his friends Henry White, Joy Njoku and Cynthia Edokwe.

Eight of them admitted that the Airtel sponsored trip to Dubai was their first trip ever to the United Arab Emirates.

Mrs. Obicommended Airtel Nigeria for giving her and the children the opportunity to enjoy the Christmas holiday in a special way.

Christmas holiday She said: “The Airtel Red Hot Promo 3 came at the right time; my children are so excited to go on the wonderful trip to Dubai. It was not an easy decision for me to pick just three family members for the trip, but my husband willingly suggested that our three children should go. We really appreciate the Dubai trip courtesy of Airtel. We thank the network for rewarding their customers with this programme.”

Similarly, Mr. Oji said: “I am really excited with this amazing trip to Dubai.

I experienced the sight and sound of the much talked about city. I went with my friends and workmates. I say a big thank you to Airtel Nigeria for offering me this wonderful opportunity.”

The company said that apart from the Dubai trip, which is for a total of 240 people, other prizes await Airtel customers. It noted that as the promo runs from 4th of December to 1st of February, one smart phone is given out every 24 hour. N1 Million is being given on a daily basis to a lucky winner and a different denomination of airtime is given to thousands of winners each day.

Female developer launches app to reduce maternal mortality

By Laju Iren

I

F facts and figures from the United Nations Children’s Fund, UNICEF are to be relied upon, about 2,300 children under the age of five and 145 women of child-bearing age die in Nigeria on daily basis.

However, all hope is not lost.

Female app developer, Miss Kesandu Nwakolo is hoping that with the launch of her new mobile app, CradleCount, specially designed for pregnant women, tomorrow will be different.

CradleCount which is available for free at the Google play store, helps pregnant C M Y K

women and health practitioners accurately calculate the expected date of delivery using the last menstrual period; informs the pregnant women how many days to the delivery of the baby; regularly alerts pregnant mothers to register and follow up with their antenatal care.

The app can also work without internet connection and sends regular pregnancy and health tips to expectant mothers. It is well designed with good aesthetic values and background colours that mothers can change to suit the gender of the baby they are expecting.

Nwakolo, speaking on the motivation behind the app told Hitech: “A woman’s chance of dying from pregnancy and childbirth in Nigeria is 1 in every 13. Nigeria has the 10th highest maternal mortality in the world.

Although many of these deaths are preventable, the coverage and quality of health care services in Nigeria continue to fail women and children.

Presently, less than 20 per cent of health facilities offer emergency obstetric care and only 35 per cent of deliveries are attended by skilled birth attendants. About 6 out of 10

•Mother and child

women have their babies at home where the delivery is not supervised by a skilled birth attendant. And errors in estimating the expected date of delivery could lead to the baby being delivered supposedly unexpected.”

Continuing, she said: “Technology and innovation can help solve these problems; this is where CradleCount comes in. It is my desire that this app will drastically reduce maternal and child mortality across Africa.”

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 6, 2016 — 27

Awgu, Aninri council areas unveil Ekweremadu’s sculpture

VOL. 1 NO 51

Gov. David Umahi of Ebonyi

-Page 28

Gov. Rochas Okorocha of Imo

Gov. Willie Obiano of Anambra

Gov. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu

Igbo traders bemoan Buhari’s economic policies, harsh business environment

By Emeka Mamah, Nwabueze Okonkwo & Chimaobi Nwaiwu

O

NITSHA — IGBO traders and businessmen have cried out over what they described as the recent harsh economic policies introduced by the Federal Government, saying that such policies were allegedly introduced to cripple their businesses across the country.

A vox pop conducted by the South East Voice across the five states of the region showed that the traders were angry with the Federal Government for introducing the $5,000 Basic Traveling Allowance, BTA, as well as for making Kano State the “clearing house for all imported goods in the country."

Those, who spoke at separate interviews, also, faulted the ban on importation of certain commodities like shoes and other

agricultural products. They said that efforts should have been made to encourage local producers instead of banning them without warning.

The Ogirishi of Igboland, Chief Rommy Ezeonwuka, who spoke in Onitsha, said that although it was good for the government to ban the importation of furniture, toothpicks and rice, among others, the policy should have been carried out in phases to enable local producers come to terms with the situation.

“It is an insult to import textiles into this country while our textile industries are not flourishing. But the current government policies are targeted at suppressing Ndigbo as a race. Such policies include the current clamp-down on foreign exchange and making Kano the clearing ground for imported goods. How can one leave Port Harcourt or Lagos and travel to the extreme north to

Beverages firm donates three patrol vans to Anambra State Police

C M Y K

clear his goods? These are wrong policies because they will discourage local and foreign investments.

“In the same vein, the Buhari’s regime is not observing the constitutional provisions for federal character in political appointments. The government is also discriminating against Ndigbo in the area of execution of projects as the South East Zone is excluded in the provision of social amenities. This is very bad.

Buhari should focus on achieving uninterrupted electricity supply.

The government should even

encourage building of indigenous private refineries rather than relying on the oil cabals, who are deceiving the government and making life unbearable for the entire citizenry, Onwuka who is also the proprietor of Rojenny Sports Resort, said.

In his contribution, Chief Gilbert Bravo Obi, chairman, Nigerian Importers Association, Anambra State branch said: “We heard that President Buhari wants to transfer the clearing house for all imported goods to Kano. Since he assumed office, traders have not been finding things easy. There is no more importation business in Nigeria, and you know, that majority of importers are Ndigbo.

Importation business

But the current government policies are targeted at suppressing Ndigbo as a race. Such policies include the current clamp-down on foreign exchange and making Kano the clearing ground for imported goods

However, I must emphasize that it is still too early to draw a conclusion that Buhari’s policies are either favourable to Ndigbo or not, or that they are favourable to business environment or not.

At Nnewi, the Publicity Secretary of Anambra State Traders Association, Dede Uzor Uzor said that, “the government of President Muhammadu Buhari has stayed for over six months now, adding that it had hit him adversely as a businessman.

"The economic policies of the present administration has

affected me personally; as a businessman, who trades on textile materials and pharmaceutical products. The administration introduced the policy of $5,000 as BTA. That means that you can only travel outside Nigeria with only $5,000.

Tell me how a trader, who imports from overseas can survive with such amount of money. It is not possible for a trader to survive with that amount, after paying over N200, 000 for your air ticket.

“The government knows those siphoning money to their overseas bank accounts, but has left them to pounce on ordinary traders, who are doing their businesses in order to hamper their operations. The other time about seven Onitsha main market traders were arrested and their money seized because of their alleged involvement in money laundering. What money laundering? “Tell me how a trader can survive in this present administration with this policy of $5,000 as BTA? "So, the government of President Buhari is not helping traders. This government is killing us, quote me. The traders are crying, so he should review the policy because it is affecting everybody. Nigerians are suffering because of that policy, because if it does not affect you as a trader or importer, it will affect you as a consumer.

Big time traders “Nigerians are crying over the high prize of goods and services, which have skyrocketed to high heavens. The average man on the street is crying. Buhari should discard that policy because about 80 per cent of Nigerians are either petty traders or big time traders while 20 or 30 per cent are civil servants. Tell me how these people can survive when Nigeria does not produce anything; virtually nothing, so in situations like this the government should listen to the yearnings of the people.

“Democracy is supposed to be government of the people by the people and for the people, but this one is government of the people by the people, against the people. This is man’s inhumanity against man. This is economic blockade and President Buhari must review the bad policy or other policies that are not just against the people but the economy.

"Nigerians know those who have stolen their money. Buhari knows those who have stolen Nigeria’s money.

“He should go after them and

Continues on Page 30

28—Vanguard, WEDNES DAY WEDNESDAY DAY, JANUARY 6, 2016

C M Y K

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 6, 2016 — 29

Heads of Federal Establishments and Parastatals Forum honours G. U. Okeke

By Chimaobi Nwaiwu

N

High Court complex gate in Awka under lock since September 7, 2015

Anambra govt, judiciary workers end face off — Courts reopen

By Vincent Ujumadu

A

WKA AFTER four months of bickering and name calling, the strike action by the judiciary workers in Anambra State has finally been called off, thanks to an agreement reached on December 31, 2015 between the workers and the state government.

With the development, courts in the state, which had remained under lock for the past four months reopened on Monday.

A statement signed by the state chairman of the Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria, JUSUN, Comrade Mark Ifezue directed the workers to resume work on Monday, January 4, 2016. Ifezue said the suspension of the strike followed an agreement JUSUN reached with the state government.

The statement circulated by Ifezue and circulated in Awka

THE TEAM Supervising Editor: Chioma Gabriel, Lagos (08052201257) Editor: Emeka Mamah - Enugu email: emekemamah@yahoo.com) Anayo Okoli, Umuahia Vincent Ujumadu, Awka Austin Ogwuda, Awka Chidi Nkwopara, Owerri Peter Okutu, Abakaliki Chimaobi Nwaiwu, Nnewi

Francis Igata, Enugu Nwabueze Okonkwo, Onitsha

Ugochukwu Alaribe, Aba Enyim Enyim, Onitsha Chinoso Alozie, Owerri Chinenye Ozor, Nsukka Eric Ugbor, Aba

C M Y K

read: •gFollowing the resolution of the industrial dispute between the Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria and the Anambra State government, as shown in the agreement entered between the parties this 31st day of December , 20015, the industrial action embarked upon by the judiciary workers of Anambra State on the 7th day of September , 2015 is hereby suspended.

The union appreciates the efforts of the leadership of Nigeria Bar Association, NBA, in Anambra State towards the resolution of the crisis, particularly the committee of the NBA chairmen and secretaries.

The union, in a special way appreciates the efforts of the intervention group, co-chaired by the emeritus chairman of the NLC, Comrade Charles Onyeagba and Chuka Obele Chuka and we remain grateful to governor of Anambra State, Chief Willie Obiano for his understanding.

Before the suspension of the strike, officials of JUSUN held a meeting with the state government officials, during which it was agreed that the workers•f outstanding September and October, 2015 salaries would be paid in two installments, instead of three installments as government earlier offered.

According to the new agreement, the workers•f December, 2015 salary would be paid upon resumption of work, while September and October 2015 salaries would be paid along with January and February 2016 salaries respectively.

Indeed, the strike had its toll on the state judiciary while it lasted as both the litigants and court workers, including Judges and Magistrates, remained at home. Both the state government and officials of JUSUN met

severally to find a way of resolving the matter, but could not agree during the early stage of the strike.

At a time government and the leadership of the workers were trying to reach an agreement, the national leadership of JUSUN put a wedge on the whole situation by asking its state branch to suspend further discussions with government until there was a definite date for the commencement of the implementation of Consolidated Judiciary Staff Salary, CONJUSS, which they said many states were already implementing.

Judiciary workers The strike, however, took a new dimension when some of the judiciary workers who call themselves •eConcerned striking judiciary workers of Anambra State• issued a statement calling on their colleagues to resume work immediately.

The splinter group was led by Comrade F.O. Chirah and Chike Iweka who, at a meeting of their group, alleged that the strike was influenced by external forces in the state and argued that continuing with it no longer made any sense.

To them, the agreement entered into by the government and JUSUN was fair to all concerned and asked the representatives of JUSUN to stop foot dragging in the signing of the said documents since both parties mutually agreed to it.

But they were soon to discover that they were alone as the workers chose to only obey their recognized leaders and they waited till their chairman, Ifezue directed them to return to work.

NEWI HEADS of Federal Establishments and Parastatals Forum, HFEPF, in Anambra State has honoured the Chairman and Chief Executive of G.U. Okeke and Sons Limited, Chief G. U Okeke as an Eminent Person of the Year for his support and immense contribution in security management in the state in particular and Nigeria as a whole for his relentless efforts in fighting violent crime in the state.

The honour to Okeke was part of the activities marking the 2015 Federal Staff Week Grand Finale/ Send Forth of federal officers, which featured the Investiture of Eminent Persons, and Launching of the Federal Staff Recreational Centre/ Building Project of HFEPF, held at Udoka Housing Estate Awka, the state capital.

The Inspector General of Police, IGP, Mr. Solomon Arase was also honoured as •gthe most professional Nigerian Inspector General of Police, for managing his men not compromising decent and disciplined, and being modern and fitting into the international best practices of the modern policing.

Other people honoured by the forum included Chief Lawrence Nwuruku, national commissioner INEC, the Dr Joseph Odumodu, Director General Standards Organization of Nigeria, SON, Dr Joseph Odumodu; Obiora Chukwuka and Chief Barth Nwibe.

The group also sent-forth Col. Mohammed Bello, former Commander, Onitsha Military Cantonment, Ben Diloru, Assistant Commander General, Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps, NSCDC, Alhaji

We decided to honour and encourage him to do more, because this man has contributed a lot in helping the government of Anambra State to ensure security in the state

K.O. Yusuf, now Comptroller, Prison Headquarters Abuja, Mr. Alex Okeiyi Director, Department of State Services, DSS, and Mrs. Miriam Minkiti, General Manager, Radio Nigeria Purity FM, Anambra State.

Speaking on the occasion, Chairman of HFEPF, Dr. Dave Ugonna said •gChief Okeke has been a colossus in security management issues in Nigeria, South East and Anambra State in particular; he has been in the fore front of security management. He is doing a lot in protecting life and property of the people and to ensure there is peace in South East.

We decided to honour and encourage him to do more, because security is a very important issue in the life of the people, and this man has contributed a lot in helping the government of Anambra State to ensure security in the state.

Spirit of cooperation Ugonna said the forum was concerned about the security of all sections of the country as well as the efforts by all the security agencies to achieve their cardinal mandates of fostering the spirit of cooperation and unity among member establishments, maintaining cordial relationship between the Federal Civil/Public Servants and their state counterparts even as exchange of ideas among members in seeking solutions to identified challenges affecting member establishments remained a major challenge.

He said that the criteria for selecting those honoured included their backgrounds, inputs or contributions and services rendered and how they have impacted on the nation at large among others.

Responding Chief Okeke said he was to God for the honour, pointing out that everything he had done that had impacted on the people was through His grace. “I must not also fail to thank Governor Willie Obiano of Anambra State for what he is doing in his administration, he is a very good governor, who is security conscious.

Without security you cannot do business, look at the way we are celebrating Christmas peacefully.

There is no security threat or complaints; everybody is moving about peacefully.

Chief Dr. G U Okeke (right), receiving his award from Dr Dave Ugonna, Chairman of Heads of Federal Establishments & Parastatals’ Forum, Anambra State.

30— Vanguard, WEDNESDAY,

JANUARY 6, 2016

Igbo traders Beverages firm donates three patrol vans to Anambra State Police

Igwe Peter Anugwu handing over the The three Patrol Vans donated by Interfact keys to the vehicles to DCP Bashiru Beverages Limited Onitsha to Nigerian Makama while Mr Umunna and Mr Alen watch.

Police Anambra State Command.

P

EOPLE FEEL that the police in America and Europe are more active than our policemen and women here, but that is not true. We have more active policemen here than anywhere in the world.

“The Police do more manual jobs here than in those countries, where they do more of electronic jobs which are more easy. The police in the United States are different because once you call them, they have all the electronic gadgets to stay in a place to do their jobs.

It is the promptness of the police in America and Europe in attending to security matters that make them different and that is because they have all the required equipment they need to do their jobs and I am sure if you give the Nigerian police half of what they have in America and Europe, they will do better and excel and that is why we are giving out some of these things they need to them," he said.

Operational environment Also speaking on the occasion, the Plant Manager of Intafact Beverages Limited, Mr. Godwin Alen said that "we belong to an organization where we are so conscious of the environment where we operate... the people in the community of our operation, security is everybody's business.

"This is one of the ways that we as an organization can contribute to the security issues in our operational environment and in our nation and we want a situation whereby people can move around freely and properties are protected and people are happy and going about their lawful businesses...

"We shall do more because we are a responsible and responsive organization. We make beer and other drinks and we want our customers to be protected while patronizing us and this is part of the things we can do to ensure their safety C M Y K

Public Affairs Manager of the company Mr. Chuma Umunna and Plant Manager of the Company Mr. Godwin Alen chatting, while another member of staff of the company and police officers watch.

I travel out of the country, the kind of manual job the police do here is not done overseas..., so we need to assist them with equipment, communication gadgets and other logistics to work with

and help our community and the government in their efforts in providing security and peace in our environment.

"The police will always do their jobs, and we know that our vehicles and their papers are all intact, we do not have any issue when our vehicles are stopped, for checks. its part of police routine security jobs. We are only asking for a situation where the checks will be done with dispatch, so that they do not impede our movements.”

Continued from page 27 not traders who have not occupied any government offices or done any government jobs or contracts. We have been suffering over the years; doing our buying and selling businesses. Some of us have graduated from small scale businesses to importers and now you want to kill our businesses with one policy that somebody just woke up and introduced. This has made people to abandon their businesses. It is inhuman. The policy lacks human face.

Dr Okey Umeano, an industrialist, medical doctor and a politician said that the Federal Government was not serious with any economic policy that would lead the country to prosperity.

What they are doing is trial by error. The government is still grappling with the issue of petroleum subsidy and there is no economic direction yet by the government. When they come up with one, we will know.

“It is unfortunate that during the government of former President Goodluck Jonathan, some people were against petroleum subsidy; those people criticized it and even sponsored protests against Jonathan over subsidy.

“Those people who were against Jonathan must be ashamed of themselves now .We are waiting for them to come out and criticize the present government for removing petroleum subsidy.

“Actually, this government surprised us with its $5000 BTA policy for business travels among others. Those who introduced that policy are wicked. The policy is aimed at witch haunting some people, but at the end of the day they have used it to cripple the economy of some people but everybody is now suffering.

When you bring up such policies, you have to introduce measures to cushion the effects.

We are not producing some of the things that they are discouraging people from importing into the

country.”

Mr Rob Emeka Eze, a small scale industrialist and movie producer also spoke on the issue.

He said, “The economic policy of the present administration has succeeded in crippling the economy. I do not know how they came up with some of these economic policies. Sometimes, I do wonder the type of economic advisers the present administration has. They are misleading the government.

President Buhari should listen to the yearning of the masses and reverse some of these economic policies that are killing the economy. They are crippling the economy; we are not doing anything these days.

“We believe that they are experimenting with these economic policies with the hope of dropping some of the ones that are not working, like the $5000 BTA. They have crippled our businesses with that policy and it is affecting everybody I hope they will review it.”

Economic policies Mr Alphonsus Eze Okete, who trades on kernel also criticised the present economic policies which he said had “locked down the country for six months now, saying that people were now being arrested for swallowing foreign currencies at airports instead of drugs because of the harsh economic policies of the Federal Government.

“The whole thing was meant to cripple the Igbo. That is why people have now resorted to smuggling the dollar and other currencies instead of hard drugs.

It is like cutting your nose to spite your face. We have taken ourselves back by 50 years and this is ridiculous.

“What traders do now is to collect money among themselves and smuggle same through couriers. That is the reason for the upsurge in the trafficking on the dollar and other currencies, Eze added.

People living with sickle cell disorder call for ban on carrier marriages

By Emeka Mamah

E

NUGU PEOPLE living with sickle cell disorders have lamented over what they described as the continued increase in “carrier marriages by couples who in the name of blind love, produce babies with cell anaemia and later turn round to victimise them.

The National Coordinator of the Association of People Living with Sickle Cell Disorder, Aisha Edward, made this known in Awka, Anambra State at their end of year party yesterday.

Her words, “more carrier marriages are still being condoned with the resultant increase in the number of sickle

cell babies being added to the stock.

“Most parents who, out of so called blind love, obstinately copulate to produce sickle cell babies, still turn around to become the ones that victimize them the more.

She, however, said that members of the association “have initiated a campaign to keep drumming it into the consciousness of all and sundry that carrier marriage is a mortal sin and the worst evil against humanity.

“It should be banned, once and for all in this country This, I believe, is the only way we can break the jinx of the scourge of sickle cell disorder in our society.

On members of the association who had turned to drug addicts due to frustration, she urged the various levels of governments to establish counseling centres for them.

“Our drug addicts and in fact all of us still urgently need good and accessible counseling centres; we still need more first aid kits and are still agitating for government sponsored NHIS cards; patronage by the government through Sickle Cell clinics in all the government General Hospitals.

Meanwhile, the association has urged all the NonGovernment Organisations, NGOs, collecting money from both government, individuals and corporate organisations in

the guise of catering for people living with sickle cell disorders to stop doing so forthwith.

According to Edward, “fake NGOs existing in the name of Sickle cell disorder patients had been collecting billings from unsuspecting individuals, government and corporate organisations for promoting the welfare of members of sicklers.

For examples, “what about the billions of Naira being pumped into Sickle Cell Foundation Nigeria by MTN Nigeria I ask myself, given that every one minute from every call made on the network is donated to that singular foundation?

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Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 6, 2016—33

MURDER OF ARTISAN IN LAGOS:

We are innocent —Suspects

By Esther Onyegbula

T

HE five suspected killers of a 20-year-old artisan identified simply as Shina at Cele-Nica along the Badagry Expressway in Lagos, have stated that they knew nothing about the murder of the deceased.

The suspects: Christiana Akpan (31), a sex worker, Oluwasina Aregbo (34), a disc jockey (DJ), Tureeb Ganiyu (22), Kelly Onochie (23), and Bamidele Ajibade (41); who police alleged were arrested at the scene of the crime, rather gave differing accounts of how they were arrested.

How it happened: It was gathered that the unfortunate incident took place on November 26, 2015, at about 8pm, at Cele Nica Bus stop along Badagry Expressway, after thugs armed with cutlasses, axes, guns and other dangerous weapons, invaded the place and attacked the victim.

Sex worker speaks: Akpan narrated her own side of the story: ‘’I am from Akwa Ibom State. I am a prostitute at Bright International Hotel located at Cele Nica Bus stop along Badagry Expressway. I don’t known anything about the man that was killed. I was with my colleagues at the hotel when I was arrested.

Aiding the neighbourhood "On that day, people were saying that somebody had been killed around the bus stop. I was at our hotel when I heard the story. I was about to put on my slippers when the person who alerted me asked what I was waiting for, and if I did not hear that policemen were raiding the neighbourhood because someone had been killed.

"I have been doing this job for about two years. The person that introduced me to the job is not here any more. I got into it because I am an orphan and I have three children who I have to cater for. My children live with my elder sister in Akwa Ibom State. That’s is all I know about the case.”

DJ narrates story: Narrating his own story, the second suspect, Aregbo, the disc jockey said: ‘’I am from Ilaje area of Ondo State. I work at Bright International Hotel as a DJ. Usually, I play for them on Fridays, Saturdays and

the new Pako/Ketu Bus stop where I collect toll from commercial motorcyclists as well as motorists. I started working with them when driving and dancing did not favour me.

"I stopped driving because I don’t have licence. I had the old driver ’s licence which I misplaced, so I had to stop driving because of police frequent harassments on the road. I was arrested in the morning at about 9am.

"The deceased was a street boy. I know his mother and sisters. We both went to Ajangbandi High School. I don’t know much about him because he did not participate in any of the community activities.

Community activities

•The suspects Sundays. I was employed last year November by the director of the hotel.

"On the day I was arrested, I heard that someone had been killed in the neighbourhood.

Christiana, one of the prostitutes at the hotel, called me that I should not come around the premises, that there was a problem. That was why I didn’t come that very day.

"Later the following day, Friday, she called me to say that she had heard some gunshots close to the hotel and that it was like someone had been killed.

She also told me that everyone had run out of the hotel because of the incident.

"Then I asked her where she was, and she said she was at the bus stop. I then asked her to look for somewhere safe at the bus stop to wait for me.

“When I met her, we both went to a hotel in Okokomaiko where we lodged for the night. I could not take her home because I am married with two kids. The day after, Saturday, we both went to see the director of Bright

When I met her, we both went to a hotel in Okokomaiko where we lodged for the night, I could not take her home because I am married with two kids

International Hotel. I was still at the hotel when police officers from Iyana-Sashi arrived and said they wanted me at the station. When I got to the station, I was arrested and detained. I explained to them that I didn’t know anything about the victim’s death."

“I don’t know the victim” In his defence, Ganiyu said: “I wanted to go to Abuja with a friend to repair a vehicle because I am a mechanic. So, I was supposed to travel around 6am. Unfortunately, I woke up after 8am and by the time I got to my friend’s house, they said he had already travelled. I didn’t have any money to go back home. I then went to the bus stop and pleaded with one of the NURTW members to give

me N100 to enable me return to Badagry. I didn’t know him before but he assured me that he would talk to a driver or conductor to help me get to Badagry.

"We were still at the bus stop when I was arrested alongside the man I had asked for help. It was when I got to the station that I realised that someone had been killed. I have never seen the deceased. I don’t even know whether he is fair or dark.”

“I am a driver, dancer and member of NURTW” The fourth suspect, Onochie, also had a different story to tell: “ I am a driver, a dancer and a member of NURTW. I have been living at Pako-Ketu for more than 13 years. I am married with two children. I started working at

"I cater for my family from the toll I collect and make delivery of N2,000 daily to the youth chairman of the community.”

“My hands are clean” The last suspect, Ajibade, who claimed to be an electrical engineer said: “They arrested me as a murder suspect. I don’t know anything about the murder of Shina. I was arrested in my house at Ajibade Close.

After I was arrested, people from the community came and the Police said I had been transferred.

"Later, the Police said they were still investigating and that after investigations, if they found me clean, I would be released. I have known Shina for about 20 years, when he was still a little boy. Then, I used to help my mother who owns a grinding machine, to grind pepper. That’s all I know about the case.”

NEMA partners Reps on emergency and disaster preparedness

By Esther Onyegbula

T

HE National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), yesterday partnered members of the House of Representatives Committee on emergency on issues pertaining to emergency and disaster preparedness.

This is just as the agency said it has begun profiling of the 15,000 Nigerian returnees who had sought solace in Cameroon in the aftermath of the Boko Haram destruction of their villages.

The Director General of NEMA, Alhaji Sani Sidi, made this disclosure at the retreat for

the senate committee on special duties and house committee on emergency and disaster preparedness.

While acknowledging the current success in the fight against insurgency in the North-East through the efforts of Armed Forces, Sidi said the humanitarian challenges in the region has changed from one of relief to reconstruction, rehabilitation and recovery.

He said, “In the last decade, it has become imperative to put in place effective disaster management strategies and mainstream disaster risk reduction in our national discuss.

“NEMA strongly believes that this goal is unachievable without proper legislations and support from the National Assembly.

“Therefore, this retreat is intended to focus amongst other things, on the ways forward for Nigeria in the areas of disaster management and disaster risk reduction.

“It goes without saying that the way forward must include a strong partnership between NEMA and the National Assembly through its instruments of oversight functions by the senate and House of Representatives committees.”

34 — Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 6, 2016

Gabon name 23man CHAN squad

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abon’s locally-based national team coach Stéphane Bounguendza has announced his final 23-player squad which will compete at the 2016 African Nations Championship.

The continental competition will take place in Rwanda between 16 January and 7 February 2016.

The Panthers’ team is based around a core of Missile FC, CF Mounana and AS Mangasport representatives, with the three local heavyweights providing a total of 15 players, while CF Mounana keeper Stéphane Bitséki is the only senior international included.

Gabon will play a warm-up friendly against Uganda in Kampala on 10 January, before launching their CHAN campaign against Morocco in Kigali on 16 January.

The Panthers will then face hosts Rwanda on 20 January, and their final Group A opponents, Côte d’Ivoire, on 24 January.

Kano Pillars sack 10 players

T

he management of Kano Pillars Football Club has fired 10 of its players ahead of the 2015/2016 Glo Premier League season.

Idris Malikawa, Media Officer of the club made this known in an interview yesterday in Kano.

Malikawa said the 10 players were sacked based on medical ground and poor performance.

“The management of the club felt the only way to make headway in the plan to have a good season in the NPFL is to weed out 10 aged and unproductive players. This is to make way for new boys that will strengthen the team,” Malikawa said.

The media officer disclosed that the club would recruit new players “to beef up the team in some critical areas.”

He said the team had already resumed training ahead of this year’s campaign, assuring that the transfer formalities would be completed on time.

Enyimba keep Efugh waiting

N

igerian champions, Enyimba, have not completed the signing of Chinedu Efugh from rivals, Heartland.

Efugh has become one of the top players on the wishlist of the Peoples Elephant following the potential departure of Markson Ojobo from Aba. Ojobo has been linked with a move to Sunshine Stars.

However, the deal to bring Efugh to Aba is still pending as Enyimba are still locked in discussion with their southeast rivals, Heartland.

Efugh, it was understood is keen to make the move across from Owerri to Aba based on the lure of featuring in the CAF Champions League.

“Nothing is done yet on signing him.

Talks are still on,” said an official of Enyimba.

Enyimba are currently preparing for the 2016 CAF Champions League and are camped in the southwest town of Otta in Nigeria.

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•Oliseh with Eagles

Oliseh has no issues with the preparations of his charges and believes the Super Eagles “can do well in Rwanda.”

“We started our preparations two weeks ago in Abuja and now we have decided to come to Pretoria.

“It has almost the same altitude like Rwanda and also South Africa is good for my players.

“Nigeria has a good relationship with South Africa,” Oliseh told SABC. The Nigeria trainer then spoke about his side’s chances at the tournament explaining that it is important to hit the ground running.

“I think they (Super Eagles) can do well in Rwanda because we have a very good team.

“But then in a tournament, you never know.

“We just pray we have a good start,” he said.

Nigeria’s Super Eagles have been drawn in Group C of the CHAN alongside Tunisia, Niger and Guinea.

The Super Eagles will play two group games (against Niger and Tunisia) at Stade Régional Nyamirambo, Kigali on January 18 and 22 respectively before rounding off their preliminary campaign against Guinea at Umuganda Stadium, Gisenyi on January 26.

CHAN: Eagles preparations excite Oliseh S

uper Eagles head coach, Sunday Oliseh, is pleased with the team’s preparations for the 2016 African Nations Championship (CHAN) in Rwanda which kicks off on January 16.

The Super Eagles commenced preparations for the CHAN a fortnight ago in Abuja and have since arrived in Pretoria, South Africa for the final leg of their tune-up for the tournament in Rwanda.

Siasia plans European friendlies ahead Rio Olympics N

IGERIA U-23 coach Samson Siasia has said he plans Europe training camps and test matches as part of his team’s preparations for the Rio Olympics in August.

Nigeria will be in Rio as African U-23 champions after they last featured at the Olympics in 2008.

The former Super Eagles manager disclosed that the African champions will commence preparations for the Rio Olympics in the first week of February.

Siasia, who also led the U-20 boys to the African title and runner-up position at the FIFA U-20 World Cup in The Netherlands in 2005, stated that he intends to utilize all the FIFA windows available to him and his assistants to see other players at close quarters.

“For now my plans are to utilize fully all the FIFA windows beginning with the one in March, with the hope of taking players selected to an accessible country in Europe where all the overseas -based players can come with ease, play one or two friendly games and then have them return to their respective clubsides,” he said.

Siasia said he plans to use the

February camping in Abuja to see any new player who could add value to the team who won the Africa U-23 Cup of Nations in Senegal last month.

“Since we qualified for the football event of the Rio Olympics, a lot of players both at home and abroad have been calling me that they want to play for the country, so myself and my assistants intend to use the first week of camping to see these players who will bear the cost of their trip to the camp and accommodate •Siasia themselves,” he said.

“Any of them selected will now be added to the players who made us proud in Senegal for a full camping. Mind

you, no player is yet guaranteed a shirt in the team, as I have always said only the best legs will make it to Rio de Janeiro.

“For now, time is not on our hands and as such, we need to start work in a bid to present a team that will make Nigerians proud in Brazil.

•Dream Team in action

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 6, 2016 — 35

GUARDIOLA: I want to manage in the Premier League

Benitez exit will not affect Bale – Toshack F

ormer Wales and Real Madrid boss John Toshack has dismissed suggestions that Gareth Bale could leave the Santiago Bernabeu for Manchester United following the dismissal of Rafa Benitez.

Bale enjoyed a close relationship with Benitez following the latter’s arrival at the Bernabeu ahead of the 2015-16 campaign and the 55-year-old’s exit has reportedly unsettled the Wales international, with United believed to be keeping a close eye on his situation.

Nevertheless, Toshack is adamant Benitez’s departure will not influence Bale’s situation in the Spanish capital.

“I don’t see Benitez’s exit affecting Gareth at all,” Toshack told BBC. “I don’t see that as a problem.”

Madrid opted to part company with Benitez following Sunday’s 2-2 draw with Valencia, replacing him with Zinedine Zidane, and Toshack feels the ex-Napoli coach always faced an uphill task to succeed at the Bernabeu.

“Benitez was up against it right from the off,” he added.

“Right from the minute he walked through the door something was not quite right. I don’t think his face fitted.

that he would be leaving current club Bayern Munich next summer, when his three-year deal in Bavaria expires.

The former Barcelona chief, 44, has been heavilylinked with a move to Manchester City, and a reunion with former Barca bosses Ferran Soriano and Txiki Begiristain, while Chelsea and Manchester United have also been mooted as potential destinations.

Paris Saint-Germain have also shown interest in taking him to France, but Guardiola has now made clear where his next port of call will be.

“The reason I have not extended my contract is simple. I want to manage in the Premier League,” declared Guardiola, speaking for the first time since his Bayern departure was announced.

P

ep Guardiola has issued a comeand-get-me plea to the Premier League elite, by declaring: “I want to manage in the Premier League”.

The Spanish boss announced in December

•Benitez

Zidane a risky appointment – Valdano T

HE appointment of Zinedine Zidane at Real Madrid is a “risky” one, according to their former general manager Jorge Valdano.

Zidane was announced as the club’s new manager on Monday following the sacking of Rafael Benitez, who lasted just seven months in the job.

The Frenchman spent six years as a player for the Spanish giants and began his coaching career at the club, taking

over the Real Madrid Castilla side in 2014.

However, Valdano believes Zidane’s lack of experience makes it a risky appointment.

“Zidane taking over is such a risky move because of his lack of experience,” he told El Larguero.

Valdano also gave his thoughts on why he believes the Benitez and Madrid relationship did not work out.

•Guardiola

Ibe desperate for Liverpool silverware J

ORDON Ibe says he is desperate to win silverware with Liverpool as the Reds prepare for the first leg of their League Cup semi-final against Stoke on Tuesday.

Jurgen Klopp’s men saw off Southampton in the fifth round in some style, winning 6-1 at St Mary’s Stadium.

And Ibe hopes the Merseyside giants can get a good result at the Britannia Stadium on Tuesday to boost their chances of capturing silverware.

“The club has not won a cup in a few years now so it’s vital for us to try and win one. It’s massive,” he told the official Liverpool website.

“It could [also] build confidence for the other

CAF WOMEN’S AWARD 2015:

Ebere battles Cameroon stars P

aris Saint-Germain defender Ngozi Ebere faces a tough battle against Cameroon’s Gabrielle Onguene and Gaelle Enganamouit as well as the Ghanaian Portia Boakye for the CAF Women’s Player of 2015 Award on Thursday.

The Nigeria defender’s main threat in this contest is Cameroon striker Gaelle Engananouit, who netted a hattrick at the 2015 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Canada in a 6-0 thrashing of Ecuador.

The 23-year-old midfielder also finished as top scorer in the Swedish league in 2015 while playing for Eskilstuna United.

Falcons ace Ebere is a top quality defender who showed class at the 2015 World Cup after winning all the major local honours with Rivers Angels.

An African champion with Nigeria in 2014, she is strong in the tackle, blessed with great anticipation and is full of energy.

Her performance with the Falcons in Canada did not go unnoticed as she attracted interest from teams in USA before she decided to join PSG in France.

Nigeria stars who have won this prestigious individual accolade include Mercy Akide, Perpetua Nkwocha and Asisat Oshoala.

cups we’ve got and for the Premier League.

It’ll give us the confidence to do better.

“It seems like we’re so close. Two games until Wembley and we’re so close to actually winning a cup for Liverpool.”

However, Ibe realises Stoke will be no pushovers and has urged his team-mates not to take the away game lightly.

•Zidane •Zidane

Golfers warm up for DOAMF Charity Golf G olfers at Ikoyi Golf Club in Lagos have commenced preparation for the biggest charity event on the club’s calendar - the DOAM Foundation Charity Golf Tournament, scheduled for Saturday, February 6, 2016.

The tournament, which has provided a platform for members and corporate

•Ebere

bodies to support social causesin the last six years, features a qualifier event scheduled for Saturday January 23, 2016 at the Golf Section of Ikoyi Club 1938.

Chairman of the tournament’s OrganisingCommittee, Pat Bassey, who has coordinated all previous editions, said that the event connects well with the golfing community because it fills a vacuum that a number of golfers have yearned for over time.

“We have a huge number of golfers who need the platform that this event provides, so that they can connect with the indigent and the less privileged in the society. The increasing interest, year after year, only goes to show that their expectations are being met.”

Over 200 players are expected during the qualifier to vie for slots at the final of the event, the committee members have informed.Players who scale through the one-day qualifier would be drawn alongside invited players and guests at the final of the tournament in February.

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36—Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 6, 2016

Don’t pay lip service to peace, Olu of Warri tells youth leaders W

ARRI—THE Olu of Warri, Ogiame Ikenwoli, has admonished youth presidents in Delta State and other parts of the Niger Delta not to pay lip service to peace, saying that truth was important for peaceful co-existence as everyone should work towards genuine peace building.

The Warri monarch handed down the advice at his palace in Warri, Delta State, when he played host to youth presidents of Ijaw, Urhobo, Isoko, Ndokwa and Itsekiri ethnic nationalities.

Blaming politics for the disharmony that occasionally occurs among ethnic groups in Delta State, the Olu advised youth presidents in the state to communicate and relate more with themselves to erase mistrust and disharmony.

He enjoined the youth presidents to carry on the message of peace and unity to all parts of Delta State, adding that the presence of Pere of Ogulagha, Obi of Onitsha, Ooni of Ife and other traditional rulers during his coronation on December 12, 2015 was a thing of joy to him.

Speaking earlier, President of Ijaw Youth Council, IYC, Udengs Eradiri, said that the youth presidents came to seek the fatherly advice of the

Olu of Warri with a view to working with him.

The IYC President, represented by IYC spokesman, Eric Omare, who spoke on behalf of youth presidents of Urhobo, Isoko, Ndokwa and Itsekiri, explained that the task before the youth presidents was to promote ethnic harmony in line with the Olu of Warri's promise in his maiden media

briefing.

President of Itsekiri National Youth Council, Esimaje Awani, led the youth presidents to the Olu’s Palace.

The Senior Special Assistant to Delta State Governor on Youth and Community Development, as well as President of Isoko National Youth Assembly Worldwide, Victor Egbo, President of Urhobo Youth Council and SA

to Governor Ifeanyi Okowa on Youth and Community Development, Terry Obieh, President of Ndokwa National Youth Movement as well as aide to Governor Okowa, Benjamin Onwubolu, were among youth leaders who paid the solidarity visit to the Olu, who was flanked by prominent chiefs of Warri Kingdom.

DEMONSTRATION: Abia State Deputy Governor, Mr. Udeh Okochukwu, addressing members of Movement for Abia State Reunion during a peaceful demonstration against the Appeal Court judgment on Abia State governorship election, in Umuahia.

Lawyer petitions Buhari, IG over alleged invasion by soldiers

A

By Emma Amaize

SABA—A legal practitioner, Emmanuel Obakpolor, has called on President Muhammadu Buhari, the Inspector General of Police and the Chief of Army Staff to call to order, soldiers who allegedly raided a drinking spot, Lady Warm-Up Bar, at Ogharafe, Ethiope West Local Government Area, Delta State, molesting the customers and destroying items worth millions of naira.

Obakpolor, in a letter to President Buhari, said the latest incursion on the restaurant by soldiers, who came in a Hilux vehicle with plate number, DT JUL 023, occurred on December 6, 2015.

He said that among the items destroyed were drinks and chairs, adding that the soldiers also made away with money and violated the rights and freedom of movement of the customers to peaceful assembly.

The lawyer noted that earlier on July 12, last year, soldiers, led by an army captain reportedly attached to an oil company in the area, stormed

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the bar, beat up people and warned the victims to stop patronizing the restaurant.

Obakpolor said the soldiers threatened to shut down the bar at the time and their latest

offensive was clearly to intimidate the owner.

Wondering why soldiers should be involved in a civil matter, he stated that the soldiers did not find anything

incriminating in the bar, yet they would not allow peace reign even after they had asked the dazed customers to go to another bar on Okhoro Road, Ogharefe.

Bayelsa poll: Religious leaders endorse Addressing newsmen in win the poll.

Dickson Onitsha, Anambra State, after their “We have seen that Governor

By Chimaobi Nwaiwu

N

NEWI—A group of religious leaders made up of Bayelsa and non-Bayelsa indigenes, Clergy in Support of Continuity of Good Government, has endorsed the re-election of Governor Seriake Dickson of Peoples Democratic Party, PDP for a second tenure in office.

The clergymen also prayed for free, fair and credible election in the re-run election that is holding in the state this Sartuday.

They also urged Bayelsans to reward former President Goodluck Jonathan for his good work in the state and allowing peace to reign in Nigeria by conceding defeat to President Muhammadu Buhari, by electing the candidate of his party for a second tenure.

visit to Bayelsa State, to assess the developmental projects carried out by the incumbent Governor Dickson, spokesman of the religious leaders, said they are sure that Governor Dickson will

Dickson is receiving great support from Bayelsans, who have confirmed his peaceful and all embracing leadership in the state inspite of provocations from other contestants."

Delta NSCDC arrested 20 suspected pipeline vandals in 2015 —Commandant

A

By Festus Ahon

SABA—DELTA State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, yesterday, said that it arrested 20 suspected pipeline vandals and oil thieves in 2015.

In a statement by its state Commandant, Beatrice Irabor, NSCDC said it recovered “Six trucks and two mini-lorries, 22 plastic tanks filled with suspected stolen petroleum products, two J5 buses, 88 drums filled with

suspected stolen petroleum products and 237 jerry cans of 25 litres each filled with diesel,” noting that the recovered items were being used by the suspects to carry out their illegal trade.

She added that four convictions were secured at various law courts by the legal department of NSCDC, adding that the command destroyed illegal refineries and other tools used by the hoodlums “at Ekatu camp, Tekele camp and Osele all in Delta State."

Don't stop work on NMU, community leader begs FG

By Akpokona Omafuaire

W

A R R I—THE Secretar y, Okerenkoko Federated Communities of Warri South-West Local Government Area, Delta State, Ernest Bebenimibo, has urged the Federal Government not to jeopardize the future of his people by stopping the actualization of the Nigerian Maritime University, Okerenkoko.

Speaking yesterday in Warri, Bebenimibo reasoned that stopping work at the university's permanent site was an indirect indication of stoppage of the project.

He said that their fears stemmed from the directive by the Minister of Transport, Mr. Rotimi Amaechi, that ongoing work should be stopped due to some on-going probes.

According to him, “The university is the answer to our development, it is the only visible gain from our Niger Delta struggle."

CTC Chair assures on security in Rivers LG

By Jimitota Onoyume

P

ORT HARCOURT— C A R E TA K E R Committee Chairman, Asari Toru Local Government Area, Rivers State, Ambassador Sobomabo Jackrich, has assured people of the council that he will continue to take steps to guarantee security of lives and property in the area.

Jackrich, yesterday in Buguma, headquarters of the council, said that since he assumed office, he has continued to give special attention to security of lives.

He recalled that the Buguma beach party held in the last week of December was without any incident, stressing that the atmosphere of peace would be consolidated.

“We had our Buguma beach party last week and it was well attended. There was no crisis.

Nobody was molested by anybody. You can see that peace has fully returned to our council. As Chairman of the Caretaker Committee, I will continue to take steps that will promote peace in our local government,” he said.

Vanguard, WEDNES DAY WEDNESDAY DAY, JANUARY 6, 2016 — 37

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38—Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 6 , 2016

Biafra: Uwazuruike appoints Catholic priest Biafra’s electoral helmsman

Reps member disburses N65m empowerment packages

By Nwabueze Okonkwo

O

NITSHA—LEADER of Biafra Independence Movement, BIM, Chief Ralph Uwazuruike has appointed a Catholic Priest, Rev. Fr. Samuel Aniebonam as Chairman of Biafra Independent National Electoral Commission, B-INEC. Announcing the appointment at Ojukwu Memorial Library, Owerri, Imo State, Uwazuruike explained that the measure was in line with BIM’s principle of non-violence towards establishing a sovereign control over the territorial boarders of the new Biafra.

In a statement in Onitsha, Anambra State by the newly promoted Biafra Director of Information, Chris Mocha, Uwazuruike noted that Fr. Aniebonam and his team of other members of B-INEC would conduct and supervise the internal election for all the offices of BIM on February 22, 2016.

The statement said that the unveiling of the new appointees came as the Biafran leader, presented his 2016 budget of freedom speech, adding that all the elections shall be by open ballot system popularly known as Option A4.

Uwazuruike directed that by May 22, 2016 elections for all the offices would have been completed, adding that a period of 90 days (between February 22 and May 22) had been set aside for elections in the New Biafra Government, just as his choice of open ballot system was to ensure there would be no rigging and other electoral malpractices in the region.

“Our election will not be like that of Nigeria. It will be done in a transparent manner. In Biafra, there won’t be electoral fraud. The tenure of the elected

By Peter Okutu

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BAKALIKI— M E M B E R representing Ohaozara/ Onicha/Ivo federal constituency in Ebonyi State, Linus Okorie, has distributed constituency empowerment packages valued at over N65 million to constituents.

The exercise at his country home, in OnichaIgboeze in Onicha Local Government Area of the state, witnessed the distribution of 245 Motorcycles, 30 Tricycles, 18 cars, 20 grinding machines, 20 Industrial sewing machines, 98 power generating sets, 30 Hair Dressing sets, 10 barbing sets, 10 vulcanizing machines, two Dorman sawing machines and 18 computer sets.

Okorie, Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Agricultural Colleges and Institutions, tagged the scheme, “Hon. Linus Okorie Empowerment Scheme.”

Speaking during the exercise, Okorie who lauded his political party, the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, said that there was no amount of items he can provide that will equal the mandate given to him by his constituents.

He pleaded with his people to make good use of items provided to uplift their living conditions, adding that he would tap from his oversight functions to enhance agricultural practice in his constituency and in the entire Ebonyi State.

regional governor or minister would be four years and nine months. There shall be no second tenure.

“Once you are defeated in an election, you won’t file an appeaat a tribunal against your opponent. This is why members of the commission would be men and women of God,” Uwazuruike said.

Uwazuruike used the occasion to decorate Mr. Chris Mocha who was promoted from the rank of Deputy National Director for Information to the rank of Biafra Director of Information.

During budget speech, Uwazuruike said as former MASSOB’s Chief Liaison Officer, CLO, and ex-Nigeria Police Officer, tMr. Mocha has contributed immensely to the development and progress of the Biafran struggle, having served the organisation in different capacities including Secretary, Biafra Intelligence Agency, BIA, Assistant Director, Information, O/C MASSOB Secretariat, his Personal Assistant on Media Matters, Anambra North Senatorial district leader and member, Biafran elders-in-

council, among others.

He explained that MASSOB/BIM were the greatest thing that God has done for people of the zones, noting “Although we started to have some challenges along the line, but such challenges we have overcome.”

He expressed confidence that the non-violence method adopted by MASSOB/BIM will never die, as he approved the elevation of Ahamefuna Onyenuma to Deputy Director and Mr. Jude Udeji, Assistant Director for Information, respectively.

Group warns political parties against violent protests, incitements

By Eric Ugbor

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BA—CAMPAIGNERS of Good Governance And Peace, CGGP, a civil society group, has called on all political parties in Abia State to warn their supporters against violent protests which in most cases claim innocent lives, cause injuries and disrupted commercial activities in Aba, the

commercial nerve city of Abia and other parts of the state.

Aba, the commercial hub of the state had witnessed series of protests in the past few months occasioned by the demand by the group Indigenous People Of Biafra, IPOB, calling on the Federal Government to release from detention their leader, Mr. Nnamdi Kanu.

The protests which lasted for days saw the closure of shops

Cleric lauds Buhari

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CLERIC and General Overseer of the Chosen of The Lord Ministries, Prophet Martins John-Oni, has said that President Muhammadu Buhari has been specifically sent by God at his ripe age of over 70 years to rescue Nigeria from misgovernance and give the country a good direction to the promised land.

In his New Year Message to the nation, Prophet John-Oni said Nigerians should be

patient with the President and not rush him in his divine mission of taking Nigeria out of the woods and delivering dividends of democracy to all Nigerians irrespective of creed or religion.

John Oni who said it was by divine arrangement that President Buhari had been chosen to preside over the affairs of the country in his age, added that he has not come to compromise with any religion.

and markets that paralyzed commercial activities in the city.

The latest political protests which has continued for days in Aba was sparked off by the judgment of the Appeal Court in Owerri, Imo State, which last Thursday nullified the election of Governor Okezie Ikpeazu of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP and declared Dr Alex Otti of the All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA governor of the state.

The judgment cancelled elections in three local government areas of the state which include Obingwa, Osisioma And Isiala Ngwa estimated to have over 300,000 number of registered voters including that of the state governor who hails from Obingwa.

The people from these areas have since the Appeal Court verdict, men, women, youths and children continued with protests in Aba, blocking roads, disrupting movements and commercial activities and denounced the judgment which they said deenfranchised them.

By Bartholomew Madukwe (08102479985) nwamad@yahoo.com

PEOPLE SPEAK

On petrol price at N86 per litre

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he issue is not pronouncing a lower price, but enforcing it. Currently, marketers are charging about two to three times the official price. Lowering the price by 50k is inviting more trouble for innocent Nigerians. -Mr. Femi Igwe, Engineer

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ut why can’t this petrol be sold at N35 per litre even as crude continues going down in price. When GEJ reduced the price from N97 to N87 APC criticized it, now what is happening.

This type of scenario is really making me to laugh. Mr. Borris Onyeka, SelfEmployed

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his will boost employment and quality of life in the country. The solution is more refineries to be built. Subsidy is evil and enemy of development because it favours only a few, to the detriment of many Nigerians. -Miss Victoria Kelvin, Student

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remember APC telling GEJ government to reduce the fuel price from N97 to N86 a litre, since crude oil has dropped to 65 dollars per a barrel. Now crude oil is 35 dollars per barrel, they have to do their calculation well. -Mrs. Morayo Simeon, Worker

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he new pump price of petrol is not only a mockery on the Nigeria people, but also playing on our intelligence. Jonathan reduced pump price from N97 to N87/litre, Nigerians insulted him and called him names. -Mr. Sunny Agiamah, Worker

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f government is not deregulating and throwing the business open to all, then importation should be done by NNPC only, so government takes the blame when things go wrong. Mrs. Constance Nduba, Model

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Suspected herdsmen kidnap Delta monarch

By Festus Ahon ASABA—APPREHENSION, yesterday, enveloped Ubulu-Uku Kingdom in Aniocha South Local Government Area of Delta State, following the kidnap of its monarch, HRM Akaeze Edward, Ofulue III by suspected herdsmen.

The incident, Vanguard gathered occurred about 4p.m., at a bad spot between Igbodo and Obior which had become a flashpoint in recent times.

The unsuspecting king, who was driving from Obior end towards Igbodo in his Toyota Land Cruiser jeep, was intercepted by the suspected herdsmen, when the driver slowed down on the bad spot.

A source, who pleaded anonymity, said the suspected abductors came out of the bush on sighting the car, shoot poradically into the air which caused the driver to get stuck in a ditch while attempting to make U-turn for fear of being hit by bullets.

The source said the suspected herdsmen numbering over six captured the king, his driver and led them into the bush, adding that the abandoned SUV was recovered from the spot by a combined team of policemen attached to the Igbodo police station and local vigilante from Igbodo and Obior communities.

Speaking further, the source, said a commercial motorcyclist who rode through the spot about 10 minutes before the incident, confirmed that he saw a young man with the Hausa attire

hovering around the spot.

“The cyclist, who rode back not later than five minutes, saw the SUV with the doors opened without the occupants. He was one of those who drew attention of the people of the area to the incident,” the source added.

Contacted the State Police Public Relations Officer, Celestina Kalu while confirming the incident said: “I cannot confirm the occupants of the jeep now, but our men have gone into the bush in search of them.”

DSS invaded my home, Eziuche Ubani cries out

By Anayo Okoli & Ugochukwu Alaribe

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MUAHIA—FORMER member of House of Representatives and now Abia State Commissioner for Works, Mr. Eziuche Ubani has raised alarm over the invasion of his house by operatives of the Directorate of State Service, DSS and soldiers.

Ubani said that the operatives invaded his house in Aba by scaling his high fence at 2a.m.

Ubani was one of the coordinators of the peaceful protests that greeted Aba following the Court of Appeal judgment which sacked Governor Okezie Ikpeazu and declared Dr. Alex Otti of All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA, the winner of the April 2015 governorship election.

According to him, the operatives came in a violent manner, banging on the doors and beat up his driver who they first met at the boys' quarters.

The former lawmaker said that when he came out to meet them, they accosted him with a search warrant, on the suspicion that he was stockpiling arms.

Showing journalists, some of the impact of the invasion on his gate and inside his studies, Ubani lamented that he was

held ransom for four hours, adding that at the end of the exercise, they found nothing incriminating, which he said the team acknowledged.

He said that the team said they had a report that he was stockpiling arms in his house and that he was training thugs to disturb the peace of Abia State, and that he wants to kill APGA leaders including Dr. Otti, Ahamdi Nweke and others.

He lamented that he was never

invited by the security operatives on account of the said petition only for them to invade his house.

“It is a premeditated plan to humiliate or kill me. Who ordered them to come? I am worried about this nation. If it can happen to me, then the ordinary Nigerians are in real trouble. The said petition was not even shown to me.

“They came as if I had planned a coup, that I want to overthrow the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”

He accused Dr. Otti of being

behind his ordeal.

Reacting to the alleged invasion, the Commissioner for Information, Boni Iwuoha condemned it, saying that it was unfortunate.

Iwuoha said that Abia State Government demands explanation from the security operatives, as it was embarrassed by that action.

Iwuoha said that the government also demands apology from the security operatives.

VISIT : Minister of Youth and Sports, Mr. Solomon Dalung (sitting), inspecting NYSC computer room. With him, from left, Permanent Secretary, Mr. Christian Ohaa; Director-General of NYSC, Brig.-Gen. Johnson Olawunmi, and the state NYSC Coordinator, Mr. Cyril Akanemen, during his visit to NYSC premises in Lagos, yesterday. Photo: NAN

Ekweremadu defends purchase of cars for Senate c'ttees

By Chidi Nkwopara & Chinonso Alozie

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WERRI —THE Deputy Senate President, Chief Ike Ekwerenmadu, has defended the cash provision for the purchase of vehicles for Senate Committees, describing it as “a necessary expenditure.”

Chief Ekweremadu, in Umunumo, Ehime Mbano Local Government Area of Imo State, during the presentation of about 100 tertiary scholarship awards to students, sponsored by Senator Athan Achonu, also linked the huge cost of procuring vehicles for the lawmakers on the prevailing exchange rate for the United States' dollar.

“It is an indisputable fact

that the exchange rate to the dollar has hit the skies in these days and age and this has adversely affected every other commodity in the country,” Ekweremadu said.

Attributing the high cost of the purchase of vehicles for the Senate committees’ assignment to the increase in the exchange rate, Ekweremadu opined that it was not unusual for Nigerians to blame the All Progressives Congress, APC, for the outcome of what they saw as abnormal.

“It is not a crime to buy vehicles for the use of Senate committees. This would enable members of the various committees to carry out their assignments without hitches,” Ekweremadu said.

He explained that he was in Okigwe senatorial zone of Imo

State, to witness what he described as “a life changing educational empowerment programme, where Senator Achonu is giving hope to the indigent but academically sound students, to study through the university and acquire knowledge in order to have an educated society.”

Speaking earlier, Senator Achonu, representing Okigwe senatorial zone of Imo State, pointed out that “whatever crisis facing Nigeria under the government of the APC was traceable to lack of management.”

He said that Nigeria remains the most blessed by God in the African continent and should be able to harness its resources for the benefit of Nigerians.

Achonu said that politically, “the APC has planned to make

Nigeria a one political party state,” a step he said, was contrary to what the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, government believed in.

DASUKIGATE: SERAP wants EFCC, ICPC to prosecute executives of CBN, other banks

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OCIO-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has sent petitions to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) requesting them to investigate the degree of complicity of Nigerian banks including the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), and financial institutions in the largescale stealing of over N70 billion meant for the purchase of arms for Nigerian soldiers fighting Boko Haram in the northeast of the country.”

In the petition dated 5 January 2016 and signed

by SERAP executive director Adetokunbo Mumuni, the organisation expressed “concern that while the CBN turned the blind eyes to corruption involving high-ranking government officials, it continues to engage in anti-poor policies such as introducing charges for use of Automated Teller Machine (ATM) cards, and threatening to send to jail economically and socially disadvantaged citizens who use dollars for local transactions.”

According to SERAP, “this inconsistent and discriminatory approach of penalising the economically and socially disadvantaged citizens for minor infractions while showing no concern about the over N70 billion stolen arms purchase funds is unlawful as it is contrary to national and international anti-money laundering standards and best practices.”

Madam Duru for burial January 9

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ADAM ANGELA Duru of Umuhu Enyiogugu in Aboh Mbaise Local Government Area of Imo State is dead, aged 87.

Until her death on December 19, 2015, she was a committed member of St. Paul Catholic Church Egbelu Umuhu in Aboh Mbaise.

Her wake-keep comes up on January 8, 2016 while burial takes place January 9, 2016 at her compound, after funeral mass at St. Paul Catholic church.

She is survived by children, grand and great grand children, among whom Mr. Alexander Duru and Mr. Julius Duru.

Late Madam Angela Duru

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South African Facebook post sparks #RacismMustFall outrage

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SAUDI/IRANIAN CRISIS: Tension rises in M/East as Kuwait recalls envoy •Why both countries don’t get along •Role of Iranian revolution

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UWAIT has announced it is recalling its ambassador to Iran as a regional row over the execution of a Shia cleric in Saudi Arabia deepens.

This came as Iran’s President Hassan Rouhani said Saudi Arabia’s decision to cut diplomatic ties with Tehran “cannot cover its crime” of executing Nimr al-Nimr.

Sunni Muslim Saudi Arabia and Shia Iran are major rivals for power in the Middle East and back opposing sides in the conflicts in Syria and Yemen.

Saudi insists peace efforts should not be affected by the dispute but has criticised Iran’s contribution to the process.

Iran has reiterated its condemnation of Saudi Arabia, with President Hassan Rouhani saying it cannot “hide its crime of beheading a religious leader by severing political relations with Iran”.

The Kuwaiti government said it was recalling its ambassador from the Iranian capital, describing the attacks as a “flagrant breach of international norms”.

It did not expel Tehran’s ambassador or downgrade diplomatic ties.

Saudi Arabia’s unexpected decision to carry out the executions - following convictions over terror offences - prompted an expression of “deep dismay” from the UN secretary general, while the US accused Saudi of exacerbating tensions “at a time when they urgently need to be reduced”.

But since then, Saudi Arabia has gained support

from some allies in its response to the attacks on its missions in Tehran and the Iranian city of Mashhad.

Saudi authorities on Sunday severed diplomatic relations with Iran.

They said that all commercial and air traffic links were being cut and that Saudi citizens were banned from travelling to Iran.

As well as the moves by Bahrain, Sudan and Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has downgraded its diplomatic team in Iran.

And on Monday, the UN Security Council issued a strongly worded statement condemning the attack on the Saudi embassy - making no mention of the execution of the cleric.

The Iranian revolution The rift between Iran and Saudi Arabia can be traced to the Iranian revolution of 1979, which saw a pro-Western leader toppled and Shia religious authorities taking over.

Tehran began backing Shia militias and parties abroad, and Riyadh - concerned at the growing influence of a newly-strident Iran - strengthened links to other Sunni governments, including the formation of the Gulf Cooperation Council.

The 1980s saw tensions between Saudi and Iran escalate - Saudi Arabia backed Iraq’s Saddam Hussein, and after clashes at the hajj in 1987 killed hundreds of Iranian pilgrims, Saudi Arabia suspended diplomatic ties for three years.

Another key milestone was the US-led 2003 invasion of Iraq, when the overthrow of Saddam Hussein saw a Shia-led government come to power in Riyadh’s neighbour.

The Arab Spring saw Iran support its ally, Syrian President Bashar alAssad, with the Saudis backing the opposition when popular protests turned into civil war.

In Bahrain, Saudi troops helped put down anti-government protests by the majority Shia population there.

Saudi Arabia felt threatened by last year’s Iranian nuclear deal, fearing the easing of sanctions would allow Tehran to further support Shia groups in the Middle East.

If you add to this the Iranian fury over a deadly stampede during last year ’s Hajj pilgrimage and a more assertive Saudi foreign policy since the new king took charge, then the row over the execution of Sheikh Nimr becomes just the latest in a long-running struggle.

Days ahead dangerous, uncertain What happens next is unclear, but the situation is dangerous Perhaps the only thing we can be certain about is that hostile Iranian-Saudi relations will only prolong the misery of Yemen and Syria, with a diplomatic solution unlikely and both sides keen to prevent the other gaining influence.

International reaction has been predictable, with Saudi allies such as Bahrain also taking measures

to downgrade or end relations with Iran.

World powers have called for de-escalation.

The US is in a delicate position, being a longterm ally of Saudi Arabia but seeing a thaw in ties with Iran in the wake of the nuclear deal.

American foreign policy is undergoing a “pivot” towards Asia; the US enjoys greater energy security following a fracking boom - how far would Washington be prepared to wade into the row?

The gloomiest prediction from commentators is that the region could be entering a version of the Thirty Years’ War, which saw Catholic and Protestant states battle for supremacy in the 17th Century.

OUTH Africa’s ruling ANC party on Tuesday launched legal action over a white estate agent’s Facebook comments that compared black beachgoers to monkeys in a growing row about post-apartheid racism.

The African National Congress, which led the struggle against whiteminority rule, said it was pursuing a case against Penny Sparrow and a recent spate of other allegedly racist online postings.

Sparrow’s comments sparked a storm of protest and renewed debate about racism among white people in the country 22 years since Nelson Mandela came to power vowing national reconciliation.

The ANC said in a statement that it was laying “charges of crimen injuria (intentionally impairing the dignity of others) against a number of South Africans who have made racist remarks on a number of social media.”

Sparrow, a real estate agent from Park Rynie in the southern province of KwaZulu-Natal, complained on Facebook about black people littering beaches during New Year’s celebrations.

“From now I shall address the blacks of South Africa as monkeys as I see the cute little wild monkeys do the same — pick and drop litter,” she said in the posting on Saturday.

The ANC said it would also lodge a complaint with the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) because such comments “belittled” and

“insulted” black South Africans.

“It is troubling that bigots who once kept their views to themselves now seem emboldened,” party spokesman Zizi Kodwa said.

Sparrow later deleted the post and apologised, saying she did not “mean it to be a personal insult to anyone”.

Several other white South Africans have also been subject to fierce criticism over tweets with allegedly racial connotations.

Prominent economic analyst Chris Hart was suspended by Standard Bank after tweeting about a growing “hatred towards minorities”.

Prominent economic analyst Chris Hart was suspended by Standard Bank for what it said were “racist undertones” in a tweet suggesting there was a a growing “hatred towards minorities”, seen as referring to the treatment of whites.

The furore has highlighted racial divisions and sensitivities in South Africa, which faces a dire economic outlook as growth slows sharply and mass unemployment persists.

A survey in December by the Institute for Justice and Reconciliation concluded that most South Africans felt “race relations have either stayed the same or deteriorated” since the first democratic elections in 1994.

The main opposition Democratic Alliance party, of which Sparrow is a member, stressed it abhorred racism and laid criminal charges against her for “dehumanising black South Africans”.

The man Sheikh Nimr al-Nimr

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HEIKH Nimr alNimr, who has been executed by Saudi Arabia, was a prominent, outspoken religious leader drawn from the country’s marginalised Shia minority.

He was arrested in 2012, the year after protests broke out in oil-rich Eastern Province following the Arab Spring.

During his arrest after a car chase in the province’s Qatif district he was shot four times in the leg - three people were killed in the days of protests that followed.

Nimr al-Nimr, who was in his 50s, had been a vocal supporter of the mass anti-government protests in the province, where a Shia majority have long complained of marginalisation.

President Jammeh of Gambia and his wife Zineb Yahya Jammeh

Gambia orders female workers ‘to cover hair’

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HE Gambia’s government has banned its female employees from leaving their hair uncovered at work, a leaked memo quoted by private newspapers says.

Women should use a “head tie and neatly wrap their hair”, the memo said, without giving reasons for the ban.

Last month, The Gambia’s President Yahya Jammeh declared the Muslim-

majority country an Islamic republic.

He added that no dress code would be imposed and citizens of other faiths would be allowed to practise freely.

The Gambia is popular with Western tourists because of its beaches.

Mr Jammeh withdrew the former British colony from the Commonwealth in 2013, describing the organisation as neocolonial.

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 6, 2016 — 53

Osimhen’s transfer complicated, says Wolfsburg boss G OLDEN Eaglets and FIFA Under-17 World Cup star, Victor Osimhen may not realise his dream of playing in Europe early as issues continue to block his move to the big league.

VFL Wolfsburg sporting director, Klaus Allofs reaffirmed his club’s interest to sign the player, but he admitted, there were so many details to be ironed out, and it was a difficult process.

Allofs, a former German international listed that too many agents are claiming the rights to Osimhen, and this was contrary to the regulations of FIFA.

ARCELONA have registered a whopping 77 players following the expiration of the Liga side’s 14-month transfer ban.

The Catalans were sanctioned by Fifa for breaching rules regarding the acquisition and movement of players under the age of 18.

However, while Barca were prevented from registering new arrivals for the past two transfer windows, they were not blocked from doing deals.

Indeed, both Arda Turan and Aleix Vidal were signed last summer, from Atletico Madrid and Sevilla, respectively, and the pair are now eligible to make their belated Blaugrana debuts.

Barca have already lifted

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T emerged from Warri Tuesday morning that the wife of Super Eagles player Fegor Ogude has been taken by Kidnappers.

Maimunat Ogude, was

the Uefa Super Cup and Club World Cup this season and will now hope to retain their Champions League, Liga and Copa del Rey titles in 2016.

However, as well as strengthening Luis Enrique’s first-team squad, last season’s treble winners have also snapped up another 75 players across all categories.

with the team in Pretoria expressed optimism about the match adding that he was happy with the level of fitness in the team.

The skilful Angolan team finished as runnernd up at the 2 African Nations Championship in Sudan five years ago, while Nigeria finished in third place at the last edition in South Africa held in 2014.

Oliseh further confirmed that the Super Eagles will also face the Ivory Coast on January 11.

“The friendlies re to get us (sharpened) as we cannot just rely on our training sessions alone,”he said.

“We will use the friendlies to see if what we have corrected

grabbed by armed men on Monday night in Warri, Delta State, the kidnappers have yet to make contact with Ogude who plays in Russia.

“My wife, Maimunat Ogude, went out with my kids. Barely two hours that I left the house, my younger brother Ogaga, called me to say that some armed men came to the house to take my wife away,” the midfielder,

Continues from BP from the team after sustaining some muscle tweaks in the 2-2 draw with Valencia, in which he scored Madrid’s second.

He was the only senior player not to take part in Zidane’s first session, watched by 6,000 fans.

(during our training sessions) can be put to work.”

Angola and the Ivory Coast have both qualified to take part in the 2016 CHAN. Nigeria will battle Tunisia, Niger and Guinea in Group C. The Nigerian delegation will fly into Rwanda on January 15, three days before the team trade tackles with Niger Republic in their first match of the tournament, at the astroturf Stade Regional Nyamirambo in Kigali.

The Super Eagles will also play Tunisia and Guinea in Group C, with the match against the Guineans scheduled for the city of Rubavu.

The championship will be held from January 16 to February 7, 2016.

who has 16 International caps told the cableonline.

“I was told that they threw my kids out of the car and just took my wife in my car.

“Immediately I heard this, I had to go to the Police station to report this. And after making the report, I tried tracing them to see if by chance I could get the direction they went to.''

•Ogude

The Welshman has already been linked with a move away from Madrid and could potentially head back to England after Benitez’s departure.

Former Liverpool, Chelsea and Napoli boss Benitez left Madrid after only seven months in charge, overseeing 25 games and 17 victories.

Madrid are third in La Liga, two points behind Barcelona and four behind leaders Atletico Madrid.

Barcelona have a game in hand on both Madrid clubs due to their participation in the Club World Cup.

OACH Samson Siasia has said no player is certain of a place in Nigeria U23 squad for the Rio Olympics.

The Dream Team VI qualified for the global sports showpiece having emerged as African champions at the CAF U23 Africa Cup of Nations in Senegal.

Despite the burden of selecting his provisional

squad for the men’s football event, he disclosed that only the best players will be picked to represent the country as he targets the Olympics gold medal.

“Any of them selected will now be added to the players who made us proud in Senegal for a full camping,” Siasia said.

“Mind you, no player is yet guaranteed a shirt

Iheanacho Continues from BP football doesn’t phase him.

The 19-year-old Nigerian, who has four goals from just 275 minutes of action this season, wasn’t named in the club’s initial Champions League squad but an injury to Samir Nasri, which is likely to keep the Frenchman out until around the semi-final stage, means a gap has

Akas Continues from BP “Gbolahan is the captain, but as he has opted out. I’m his assistant, so I need to carry on,” Akas said.

“He is my friend, we do everything together and I really miss him.

But I have to carry on with the rest of the players.

“We have to work very hard in our preparation.

And go to Rwanda and win the championship,” he concluded.

On Tuesday, Tunde

•Osimhen

Only the best ‘ll go to Rio – Siasia

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Zidane

Eagles Continues from BP

Anderlecht and Sporting Lisbon have all been credited with having interest in the 17 - year - old since he put himself in the shop window at the Fifa Under 17s in Chile.

Kidnappers grab Eagles player’s wife

Barcelona sign 77 players as transfer ban ends

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“We have stretched our sensors but it’s not quite that simple, because many interests come together. There are different things to be clarified, “ Allofs told Kicker.

Arsenal, Inter Milan,

Adeniji’s brace plus Ifeanyi Mustapha’s lone strike helped the team beat University of Pretoria football club in a friendly game.

Nigeria will open their campaign against Niger Republic on January 18 in Kigali, before facing Tunisia and Guinea in the preliminary stages.

The Super Eagles finished in third place at the 2014 tournament held in South Africa.

appeared.

City can submit an altered selection after the transfer window closes, with many suggesting Iheanacho should be the man to replace Nasri.

“Football is just the same,” Iheanacho says.

“It’s a big tournament and I haven’t played in it before, so you just have to do your best and keep doing what you are doing.

“It’s the same players I train with, so it’s not going to be easy but I really have to help my team if I’m in.”

Iheanacho has performed superbly whenever he’s been given an opportunity this season and could be forgiven for feeling somewhat frustrated by Manuel Pellegrini’s reluctance to give him an extended run in the side, yet his focus is purely on the positives.

“Everyone has been great to me,” he says.

“Yaya and everyone.''

in the team, as I have always said only the best legs will make it to Rio de Janeiro.

“Since we qualified for the football event of the Rio Olympics, a lot of players both at home and abroad have been calling me that they want to play for the country, so myself and my assistants intend to use the first week of camping to see these players who will bear the cost of their trip to the camp and a c c o m m o d a t e themselves.

“For now, time is not on our hands and as such, we need to start work in a bid to present a team that will make Nigerians proud in Brazil. For me, after winning silver at the 2008 Olympics in Beijing, my next target is to go all out for gold in Rio, and I strongly believe we have the players that can achieve this.”

He also intends to make use of all the Fifa free days for friendlies that would help him and his technical crew monitor invited players very closely.

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Eagles battle Angola in Pretoria A

HEAD of the 4th African Nations Championship (CHAN), the Super Eagles will today confront the Palancas Negras of Angola in an international friendly in Pretoria, South Africa.

The encounter would be used to fine tune the Nigerian team ahead of the CHAN tournament slated to commence January 16 in Rwanda.

Head coach, Sunday Oliseh who has been Continues on Page 53

I’ll lead Nigeria to CHAN glory – Akas S

•Akas

UPER Eagles T e a m B captain, Chima Akas has declared his readiness to lead the country to success at the African Nations Championship in Rwanda.

Akas who was named as captain of the Super Eagles side following Gbolahan Salami’s absence has promised not let the country down in Rwanda while admitting Salami would be missed. on Page 53 Continues

Iheanacho ready for Champions League

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E L E C H I Iheanacho believes he is ready to help Manchester City in all competitions and says the prospect of playing Champions League Continues on Page 53

•Iheanacho

IN CHARGE: Madrid manager Zidane (r) talks to fellow Frenchman Karim Benzema during a training session on Tuesday

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HOUSANDS of Real Madrid supporters applauded Zinedine Zidane at the Valdebebas training ground as he put his players through their paces for the first time since being appointed manager.

The 43-year-old was announced as Rafa Benitez’s replacement on Monday in a decision which has ignited excitement among fans.

The Frenchman,

6,000 Real fans watch Zidane’s first session preparing his side for his first match in charge Only the against seventh-placed Deportivo La Coruna on best ‘ll go Saturday at the Bernabeu, did not have to Rio, Gareth Bale in attendance at the open says session.

Bale is believed to be Siasia doing gym work away — Pg. 53 Continues on Page 53

Barca sign 77 players as transfer ban ends — Page 53 QUICK CR OSS WORD CROSS OSSWORD

T OD AY'S PUZZLE ODA

FRI DAY'S ANS WERS FRID ANSWERS

ACROSS 1 Fashionable (4) 4 Mouthful (3) 6 Shortage (4) 8 Gaol (6) 9 Character (6) 10 Cur (3) 12 Plant (5) 14 Brush (5) 15 Skinflint (5) 18 Consent (6) 20 Combined (6) 24 Sum (5) 26 Muzzle (5) 28 Clearing (5) 30 Beer (3) 32 Decent (6) 33 Imagined (6) 34 Slight (4) 35 Obscure (3) 36 Certain (4)

DOWN 2 Discordant (5) 3 Dress (7) 4 Remit (4) 5 Twinge (4) 6 Subsequently (5) 7 Rust (7) 11 Mineral (3) 12 Ocean (3) 13 Offer (3) 16 Fixed (3) 17 Groove (3) 19 Regulate (7) 21 Horse (3) 22 Sickness (7) 23 Expire (3) 25 Bird (3) 27 Higher (5) 29 Object (5) 30 Parched (4) 31 Cheese (7)

YESTERDAY'S SOLUTIONS ACROSS: 2, React 7, Index 8, Expel 10, Build 12, Has 13, Steed 15, Defiled 17, Teller 19, Cab 20, Demonic 23, Late 25, Trip 26, Emerged 30, Awe 31, Dampen 34, Madness 37, Metre 38, Boa 39, Sprat 40, Petty 41, Geese 42, Under.

DOWN: 1, Unite 2, Rebel 3, Exuded 4, Cold 5, Exhibit 6, Beset 9, Pal 11, Decoded 13, Stall 14, Elite 16, Fan 18, Repress 21, Crypt 22, Spine 24, Emanate 27, Ewe 28, Damage 29, Label 32, Meter 33, Erase 35, Dot 36, Spin.

How to Play Sudoku

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lace a number (1-9) in each blank cell. (No line can have two of the same number).

Each row (nine lines from left to right), column, (also nine lines from top to bottom) and 3 X 3 block within a bold block (nine blocks) contains number from 1 through 9. This means that no number can appear twice in any block, column or row.

No mathematics is involved – no adding, subtraction, division or multiplication, just plain logic and your imagination.

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